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 Beauty of Seasons: Qingming People's Daily Online) 10:22, April 04, 2025 Hi everyone! I'm Sisi, a travel enthusiast! Today is Qingming, the 5th solar term of the traditional Chinese calendar and a traditional Chinese festival spanning thousands of years. I'm here in Hangzhou, a beautiful city in east China's Zhejiang Province, to experience its unique charm during this solar term. During the Qingming solar term, the grass grows lush, orioles fly, willows sway gently and the spring breeze whispers poetry. Flowers bloom quietly and people, as if every step were in a line of poetry, wander on the Su Causeway at dawn, enjoying the picturesque scenery. During Qingming, Hangzhou is filled with the fragrance of wormwood. Every household is busy making or buying qingtuan, a kind of round green cake. This soft and sticky delight is a special taste of spring in areas south of the Yangtze River. Qingming Festival is also a time to remember loved ones and honor ancestors. In China, people clean tombs and pay respect with offerings to express grief and remembrance. Other parts of the world also have similar traditions. For example, people in Mexico hold ceremonies to honor life and express deep longing for their loved ones on Dia de los Muertos every Nov. 1 and 2. During Qingming, pear blossoms sway in the breeze and travelers venture out in search of spring. No matter how you spend this solar term, Qingming conveys warmth and hope. (Images of this video are generated by AI. Zhang Heyun, as an intern, also contributed to this article.) (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Wu Chaolan) Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. Three things are true about Elon Musk and attention. The first is that he loves it. The second is that he knows how to get it. And the third is that, despite his best efforts, it doesnt always work in his favor. Musk and groups affiliated with him just spent more than $21 million to lose an election for a Supreme Court seat in Wisconsin, and Musks attention-grabbing antics seem to be among the reasons the Democrat won. Musk promised he would personally dole out million-dollar checks to two voters who signed a Musk-sponsored petition, prompting a lawsuit from the state attorney general. (In the end, he gave the checks out to two well-connected Republicans who were not randomly selected.) His super PAC offered people $50 a pop for every picture with a Wisconsin resident outside of a voting location. (The deal was just as sweet for the person in the photo: theyll get $50 too.) Musk was clear that the stunts werent just about election-buying, but attention-getting. The reason for the checks is really just to get attention, Musk told a crowd before the election results were in. It causes the legacy media to, like, kinda lose their minds. Media outlets, he boasted, ran coverage of his scheme on every news channel, and paying for that kind of coverage would cost, like, 10 times more. In the end, the Musk/MAGA candidate lost by 10 points. Attention can be funny that way. Musks attempted election-buying racket did indeed grab attention, and it does seem to have influenced the electionjust not in the way he wanted. There was another Republican candidate running in a different Wisconsin election, one that Musk didnt so visibly try to sway. That candidate lost too, but by 4 fewer points than the man Musk backed. Musks money, and his million-dollar democracy-cheapening stunts, made this the most expensive judicial election ever. And they seem to have hurt his candidate more than they helped. Now Musk, who has garnered terrible press for the Donald Trump administration, may be on his way out of the White House. (The White House countered that Musk was always expected to wrap up his work at the Department of Government Efficiency within the first 130 days.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is certainly the most attention-grabbing president in modern history, and for the most part, thats worked in his favor, even as the attention hes grabbed has been largely negative. Musk is cut from the same cloth. MSNBC host Chris Hayes, who wrote an entire book about attention, calls this troll politics: He argues that while most of us are conditioned to not like negative attention, there are peopleincluding Trump and Muskwho realize that we live in an attention economy, and that in an economy in which attention is the most valuable resource, it doesnt matter whether its positive or negative, as long as youre getting attention. Musk, he notes, went even further than Trump: Not content to simply dominate a social media platform, he bought one, then made it work in his favor. Per Hayes, he captured a platform that he purchased, where he is now operationalizing this at scale. Advertisement Related From Slate Elon Musks Tesla Sales Troubles Are Only Getting Started Read More Negative attention, though, may not always be a win. Musk is right that his check stunt did indeed capture him more coverage than $1 million could buy. But it also captured the attention of liberals, moderates, and people who simply dont want elections bought and paid for. It seems that many of those people showed up to votenot just for the Democratic candidate, but against Musks whole plot. Anyone who has watched enough reality TV can tell you that while villains keep us entertained (and themselves paid), people eventually get bored when the bad guys keep repeating the same shtickand they want to see the bad guys suffer. Advertisement Trump has at least accrued a large number of die-hard loyalists, and even more fair-weather supporters and cowed Republicans. Musk? Not so much. Traditional conservatives dont trust him. Liberals abhor him. His companys shareholders are growing tired of him (and Teslas declining stock prices). According to a new Marquette University Law School poll, 60 percent of Americans view Musk unfavorably. Advertisement Advertisement And even though Musk seemingly cannot stop courting negative attention, that attention does not seem to be making him very happy. Musk, like Trump, is also incredibly thin-skinned. He practically begs for bad press and the outrage it engenders, but then he reacts with rage and indignation when he gets exactly what he sought. He recently went on Fox News and whined, I mean, you have Tim Walz, who is a huge jerk, running around on stage with the Tesla stock price, where the stock price had gone in half. And he was overjoyed. What an evil thing to do. What a creep, what a jerk. Like who derives joy from that? This is, ahem, rich coming from the richest man in the world, who as head of DOGE effectively killed the U.S. Agency for International Development and its funding for vaccinations, HIV treatment, disease prevention, clean water, and other basic and life-saving necessities for the poorest people in the world. The House Foreign Affairs Committee then posted a meme on X of an African funeral, with the USAID seal on the coffin and Musk, Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and the DOGE Shiba Inu as dancing pallbearers. Dr. Jean Kaseya, who heads the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, estimates that between 2 and 4 million Africans will die annually thanks to Musk shuttering USAID. When it comes to creeps and jerks deriving joy from truly evil things, Id rank both making a decision that will kill millions of Africans and posting a meme about it as significantly worse than pointing out the modestly declining fortunes of the worlds richest man. Musk doesnt seem to see it that way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attention can be addictiveand people who thrive on negative attention may have an even harder time breaking its hold, since the usual social shaming and blowback dont seem to make them reconsider their behavior. This creates something of a conundrum for the attention givers, the press most prominent among them. Of course, journalists and news outlets have to cover Musks antics, given that he is not only the worlds richest man, but in his unelected role seemingly co-running the U.S. government, is arguably the worlds most powerful. It would be journalistic malpractice to not cover the fact that an unelected billionaire is running roughshod over American democracy, using his vast wealth, his social media platform, and his connection to the president to get his way and to attempt to manipulate the public. The key, though, is to cover not just the carnival but the stakesto go beyond this is crazy headlines (or worse, headlines that make the truly crazy sound normal) and explain just how the behavior in question is corrosive or dangerous. Advertisement Advertisement There is no perfect solution to Musk and Trumps attention politics, no obvious and proven-effective strategy for media outlets to cover them and inform the public while not feeding the trolls. While negative attention can garner more benefits than one might imagine, its also true that not all attention is good or usefulas Musk is now learning. Advertisement Its certainly satisfying to think that Musks antics may have finally gotten the president to push him out of his role at DOGE, and a DOGE without Musk at the helm will hopefully be less of a slash-and-burn racket. But a Musk-free DOGE doesnt mean that Musk and Trump are on the outs, or that Musk will no longer have Trumps ear. In some ways, the next iteration may be even more dangerous. Musks prominence and penchant for headline grabbing at least meant that the public observed his actions, and were able to voice their dislike of what they saw. Far less attention-hungry is the coterie of men selected by Trump to run the government, who are quietly shaping American policy but not boasting about it on social media. These menincluding the architects of the much-maligned Project 2025may not be writing out million-dollar checks and treating American elections like spring break wet-T-shirt contests. But they certainly deserve our attention. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. In a cowardly unsigned opinion on Friday, two judges on the North Carolina Court of Appeals ruled in favor of one of their colleagues, Judge Jefferson Griffin, in his quest to overturn an election that he narrowly lost in November. Republican Judges Fred Gore and John Tyson didnt throw out the 65,000 ballots and declare Griffin the winner, as he had requested.* But they are requiring election officials in a few Democratic counties to notify tens of thousands of voters of problems with their ballots or their registration. If the voters fail to fix the issues within 15 days, the ballots they cast in Novemberin accordance with all the rules in place at the timewill not be counted. Given that Griffin lost by only 734 votes, this ruling could easily lead to his being declared the winner. His opponent, incumbent Allison Riggs, will appeal. The state Supreme Court could review the decision. But if the high court splits 33 (with Riggs recused), the Court of Appeals ruling will stand. The high court declined in February to overturn the election results, but three GOP justices signed on to an opinion full of election denialism that implied that the challenged votes should be discarded. In a dissent on Friday, Judge Toby Hampson calls out the majority for its mass disenfranchisement and criticizes Griffin for trying to retroactively change the rules which applied to the election in hopes those changes will alter the result and lead to [Griffins] being judicially declared the winner of an election he would otherwise lose. Hampson notes that every single voter challenged by Griffin followed the rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Griffins arguments to change the rules were rejected by courts or election officials before the election. He argues that tens of thousands of voter registrations are invalid, because they dont include the legally required Social Security or drivers license numbers. Related From Slate Maybe Dont Take for Granted That Youll Be Able to Vote in the Midterms Read More Now Gore and Tyson are requiring all those voters to provide that information to election officials within two weeks, in order for the votes they legally cast to be counted. Theyre retroactively changing the election rules in a handful of blue counties in the hopes of giving their colleague a high-court seat that he lost. The court is also mandating that military and overseas voters in heavily Democratic Guilford County provide a copy of their photo IDs, even though the voter-ID statute doesnt apply to them. Gore is a former member of the National Guard, and he ran a joint campaign with Griffin and other Republicans in 2020. Hell be on the ballot again in 2028. Advertisement Hampson notes that the majority created the 15-day cure process out of whole cloth, and he concludes by accusing his colleagues of legislating from the bench. He also points out that if the state throws out these ballots but not others, it will violate the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution. Griffin is asking the state to treat military voters in Guilford County differently, and he wants to throw out only absentee ballots from voters with incomplete registration, not in-person votes. Advertisement These equal protection concerns could finally lead the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to intervene and stop the Republicans blatant election theft. A panel of 4th Circuit judges, in a decision in February, declined to intervene. But the judges left open the door to intervening if federal issues arise, and they could have the final say. The circuit court has put a stop to voter suppression in North Carolina before. It should do it again. North Carolinas appellate courts are controlled by partisan hacks who will do whatever it takes to maintain Republican power. The federal courts cant let them get away with this. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. The Supreme Courts next big abortion decision might barely mention the word abortion. That was clear during oral argument in Planned Parenthood of South Atlantic v. Medina this week. In 2018, South Carolinas Republican governor prohibited any provider that offers abortions from participating in the states Medicaid program. That order applied to Planned Parenthoodand by design. It also triggered litigation about a familiar question: whether part of the Medicaid statute allowing patients to choose their own qualified providers is actually enforceable in federal court. It was hard to get a read on which direction the justices were leaning on that question in this weeks oral argument. But whatever happens in Medina, the decades-long fight to defund Planned Parenthood will go full steam ahead. Anti-abortion leaders became obsessed with Planned Parenthood in the early 1980s, as the organization emerged as both a major provider of reproductive health services and a political powerhouse. Conservative politicians like Sen. Orrin Hatch considered proposals to gut Title X, a federal family planning program, partly with an eye to wounding Planned Parenthood. Conservatives also proposed an investigation into whether Planned Parenthood was misusing Medicaid money for abortion. And in 1988, the Reagan administration also took aim at Planned Parenthood with what was called the gag rule, which barred Title X recipients from counseling people about or referring them for abortions. At the time, defunding Planned Parenthood particularly interested the movements absolutists, like James Sedlak, the founder of a group called Stop Planned Parenthood (STOPP), which tried to undermine the organizations work on contraception and sex education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But President Bill Clinton rolled back the gag rule, and for decades, the fight to defund Planned Parenthood went relatively quiet. Anti-abortion absolutists despised Planned Parenthood because its affiliates offered services beyond abortion, but that limited the appeal of the defunding campaign for a movement trying to build enough political support to overturn Roe. Defunding Planned Parenthood became more central to the anti-abortion movement after 2006 when an undergraduate at UCLA named Lila Rose released a video that she claimed showed a Planned Parenthood affiliate uncritically willing to offer an abortion to a victim of statutory rape. More videos would follow. The clips were heavily edited, but it didnt matter: They stirred up a political scandal. Conservative states began trying to bar Planned Parenthood from receiving Title X or Medicaid dollars. The Tea Party, which became a household name after the 2010 midterm, took up the fight to defund Planned Parenthood, led by Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, the future vice president. Advertisement Related From Slate Trump Is Asking the Supreme Court To Let Him Have Black Sites Read More But it wasnt clear if states could simply shut Planned Parenthood out of Medicaid. The Medicaid statute includes a provision stating that any beneficiary may obtain such assistance from any institution, agency, community pharmacy, or person, qualified to perform the service or services required. Beneficiaries argued that this provision gave them the right to pick any qualified provider, including Planned Parenthood, and to enforce that right in federal court. States like South Carolina responded that Congress didnt intend to make the right to choose a qualified Medicaid provider enforceable in federal courtor at least, that the statute wasnt clear about the subject. Advertisement Litigation on the issue has raged on for decades, but the Supreme Court didnt take up the question of the meaning of the choice-of-provider statute until the new conservative supermajority took shape. In the meantime, the court weighed in on other parts of the Medicaid statute, explaining that they do confer a right to sue in federal court. Advertisement Advertisement In Medina, South Carolina insisted that this section of the Medicaid statute was different. Arguing for the state, John Bursch, who works with the Alliance Defending Freedom (the most prominent group in the conservative Christian legal movement), contended that the choice-of-provider provision simply wasnt clear enough because it didnt use the words right, privilege, or entitlement. Planned Parenthood responded that the statute was more than clear enoughas most circuit courts had already concluded. Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who could cast a deciding vote, seemed convinced that the circuit courts were still confused on the matterand that requiring Congress to use magic words like right may clear the matter up. Some of the courts most conservative justices, including Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, seemed to share his view. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett were harder to read, although they seemed at least somewhat sympathetic to Planned Parenthoods position. All of that makes it challenging to predict exactly how the Supreme Court will resolve the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is clear is that Medina wont be the end of conflicts about Planned Parenthoods funding. For example, the Supreme Court in Medina is not addressing whether Planned Parenthood is a qualified Medicaid providerthe right to a choice of provider applies only to those medical professionals who meet that definition. Relevant regulations establish that states can set reasonable standards for who counts as a qualified provider. In 2016, the Obama administration issued a letter explaining that providers werent qualified if they couldnt meet relevant medical standards or if they defrauded patients. Political targetinglike disqualifying providers who performed abortionswas out of bounds. The Trump administration rescinded that letter in 2018. Even if the Supreme Court resolves Medina in Planned Parenthoods favor, states like South Carolina will almost certainly try a new justification for defunding Planned Parenthood, arguing that it isnt a qualified provider in the first place. Advertisement Advertisement All of that raises the question of why abortion opponents are still so fixated on defunding Planned Parenthood. The answer may seem easy: Planned Parenthood is the nations largest abortion provider, and one of the most politically powerful advocates for reproductive rights. But the kind of move South Carolina is making wont really gut Planned Parenthood. State affiliates are the ones who rely disproportionately on Medicaid dollars, and these providers already dont perform Medicaid-funded abortions because of the Hyde Amendment. Meanwhile, Planned Parenthoods national office has a track record of raising prodigious amounts of money when conservative states threaten the organization, and under Planned Parenthoods bylaws, most of that money goes to the very kind of political and legal work that infuriates anti-abortion leaders. The upshot of a South Carolina win in Medina could well be less money for facilities in already underserved areas, and potentially more money for political advocacy for reproductive rights. Advertisement So whats in that for the anti-abortion movement? The answer is simple: political ammunition. Since at least the late 1970s, the anti-abortion movement has argued that abortion providers in generaland Planned Parenthood in particularhave prioritized profits over patients and delivered subpar care. This argument about abortionists has fueled any number of restrictions and bans, and now, after the fall of Roe, the same arguments are at the center of the first post-Roe prosecutions of abortion providers. Trump administration officials have gestured to similar concerns in calling for an investigation of mifepristone, a drug used in more than half of all the nations abortions. Defunding local affiliates creates financial stresses that could make it harder to deliver quality care. And if that happens, anti-abortion leaders will point to those struggles as evidence that abortion providers across the country cannot be trusted. Advertisement Advertisement Besides, the anti-abortion movement is still on the hunt for common ground with the Trump administration, which for the most part has been reluctant to deliver on the movements wish list. Cutting money for Planned Parenthood seems like a perfect fit in the era of the Department of Government Efficiency. The irony is that if this effort works, the result may not be a hobbled Planned Parenthood, least of all in national politics. More likely, patients who already struggle to find a gynecologist or primary care doctor will be the ones holding the short end of the stick. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. U.S. District Court Judge James Boasberg held a contempt hearing on Thursday to press the Trump administration on its apparent defiance of his previous orders. Last month, Boasberg directed the government to turn around two planes that were carrying Venezuelans from the U.S. to a prison in El Salvador, holding that the president could not lawfully deport them under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. The government refused to comply, or suggested that it was impossible to comply, leading to an escalating dispute between the court and the Justice Department that immediately boiled over into a test of the judiciarys practical power to rein in the administration. On this weeks Slate Plus bonus episode of Amicus, Dahlia Lithwick and Mark Joseph Stern discussed the latest chapter in the Justice Departments increasingly antagonistic efforts to evade sanctions from Judge Boasberg. A preview of their conversation, below, has been edited and condensed for clarity. Dahlia Lithwick: This hearing was not actually about the merits of the case, but about a separate question of whether someone will actually be found in contempt of court. What did we learn? Mark Joseph Stern: Judge Boasberg sounded furious. Hes inching closer and closer to contempt, though hes being very deliberate and careful about it. On Thursday, he went through the events of March 14 and 15 hour by hour to show that the administration tipped off Immigration and Customs Enforcement that the proclamation was comingbut nevertheless concealed it from the public, the plaintiffs, and their lawyers. He suggested that the government withheld the proclamations publication until late in the day to prevent migrants from filing legal objections before they were flown to El Salvador. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boasberg wasnt mincing words. Early on, he told Drew Ensign, who represents the Justice Department: It seems to me that there is a fair likelihood that the government acted in bad faith throughout that day. If you really believed everything you did that day was legal and could survive a court challenge, I cant believe you wouldve operated the way you did. Lets go through that and see if Im right or you can convince me otherwise. And its pretty clear that he was not convinced otherwise. I think its worth noting that he asked Ensign to name names, too. He wanted to understand every step along the journey, who was involved, and how the operation was kept secret until suddenly the planes were taking off. Exactly. Boasberg said from the bench: You have a proclamation signed on the 14th, although not publicized until 3:53 p.m. on the 15th, while people are being bused to planes in the morning in order to be removed as quickly as possible so that the plaintiffs couldnt challenge it, so that it couldnt be enjoined by a court. Isnt that fair? So hes laying out the fact that the governments questionable actions went beyond just not turning around the planes; it also designed this entire operation specifically to evade judicial review. And Boasberg told Ensign: What you were willing to do, by trying to do this as quickly as possible and avoid being enjoined by a court, was to risk putting people on those planes who shouldnt have been on the planes in the first place. And he cited the example of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, whom the administration later admitted it sent to El Salvador due to an administrative error. Advertisement Advertisement Boasberg was trying to figure out who was complicit, who was involved, who participated in this unlawful schemein short, to get a list of which members of the administration should be held in contempt. I dont think theres any other way to interpret his questions. Whats going to happen next? How would Judge Boasberg even be able to enforce a contempt order against one of these people? We joke all the time about judges throwing people into tiny jails in the courthouse basement. But are there going to be real, meaningful consequences here? Related From Slate Trump Is Asking the Supreme Court To Let Him Have Black Sites Read More I think Boasberg would start with civil contemptmonetary sanctions against officials who defied his order. But then the question is: What happens if he issues these fines and the officials refuse to pay? At that point, he can demand their arrest by federal marshals, who are required by a federal statute to carry out his order. But federal marshals are part of a bureau within the Justice Department, which is run by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who answers to Donald Trump. And in theory, Attorney General Bondi could instruct the marshals to ignore Boasbergs order. Advertisement Thats when you have a huge constitutional crisis on your hands. Nobody knows if the marshals would adhere to their oath to uphold the Constitution and carry out the order, or if they would cower to the political pressure of the attorney generals lawless command. If we reach that stage, though, theres one more option thats been flagged by professor David Noll: The District Court does have authority under the Federal Rules, the All Writs Act, and probably Article 3 of the Constitution, to appoint another law enforcement officer to carry out the arrest. So, in theory, Judge Boasberg could instruct D.C. or Maryland police officers to carry out the arrests of officials who refused to comply with the sanctions if the federal marshals wont do so. But that is really uncharted territory, and I am hoping we dont wind up there. I think everyone is. That kind of clash between branches is so vast that youd have to conclude democracy has failed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before we go off that cliff, its worth noting that we spoke on the show to Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, who represents Kilmar Abrego Garcia. He told us he doesnt want a constitutional crisis; he just wants to have El Salvador send his client back. That could be a way out of this, right? Some alternative resolution that lets the Justice Department save face without plunging us into this nightmare upon which were creeping up? Yes. There was a fascinating moment during Thursdays hearing when Judge Boasberg said to Ensign: If I find probable cause for contempt, does the government want an opportunity to purge that? Ensign hemmed and hawed, but Boasberg pressed him and said: Have you thought about how you would purge it other than the return of individuals? That may have been the most important moment in this hearing, because it reveals Boasbergs thinking here about another path that doesnt lead to a constitutional crisis: the return of these individuals who were unlawfully sent to El Salvador. He has indicated that, to his mind, the government could purge this contempt by simply returning the people shipped off against his orders. I think the plaintiffs lawyers would be fairly happy with that solution, and it may be the governments only remaining escape route. But the government has made every wrong decision so far, and we shouldnt be optimistic that it will start making the right decisions now. Elvan Allen Hedges, 91, of Bryans Road, Maryland, passed away peacefully in his home on March 27, 2025. Born on May 25, 1933, in Indian Head, Maryland, Elvan lived a life of dedication, service, and love for his family and community. Elvan began his career as a milkman for Safeway before proudly serving his country. He was inducted into the U.S. Army on June 16, 1953, serving in the infantry for eight years, including time in the Korean War. Following his military service, he became an explosive hauler for the Naval Propeller Plant, where his hard work and leadership led him to the position of Transportation Director. A man devoted to his community, Elvan was one of the charter members of the Bryans Road Volunteer Fire Department. His commitment extended beyond emergency services; he was a founding member of Shiloh United Methodist Church, a steadfast supporter of the local Boy Scouts Club, and a proud member of the Lions Club for over 50 years. In the 1970s, Elvan's entrepreneurial spirit led him to purchase school buses, founding Hedges Bus Servicenow H&H Bus Service. He expanded his ventures to include Hedges Towing and Hedges Radio Sales. Beyond his work, Elvan found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved boating, camping cross-country, eating at Marie's, watching WWE just about every night and watching traffic on 210 from his porch. He adored country music, enjoyed racing cars, flying kites with his grandchildren, and taking his great-grandchildren for tractor rides. He took great pride in cutting his grass and relaxing at his beloved river house, but above all, he cherished time with his family and devoted wife, Joan. Elvan is survived by his son, Mike Hedges Sr. (Tammy), and his daughter, Beverly Hill (JC); his grandchildren, Dawn (Shane), Mike Jr. (Robin), Mark (Sandy), Lyndsey (Joey) and Rebecca (Matt); and his great-grandchildren, Paige (Danny), Matthew, Evan, Kendal, Connor, Kaden, Caleb, Leah, Jayce and many more. His legacy of hard work, kindness, and dedication to family and community will live on in the lives of all who knew him. A man of unwavering commitment and generosity, Elvan Allen Hedges will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Donations can be sent in his name to: Shiloh United Methodist Church PO Box 182 Bryans Road MD 20616 Carolyn Joyce Glisson Proffitt, 87 of Piney Point, MD passed away on March 31, 2025 at home with her loving family at her side. She was known to her friends as Carol and her family as Mom, Sis, Aunt Carol, Grandma, Grammy and Great- Grammy. She was born Feb 19, 1938 in Washington DC and attended St. Patrick's Academy. After graduating in 1955 she began an administrative position with the U.S. General Services Administration. She continued on to a Property Management career. She relocated to Florida to escape cold winters. She retired in 2005 as Vice President of Tri-Ad Financial Services, Inc. in Jacksonville FL. After some health issues she moved back to MD with her furbaby Tiffany. She had the gift of gab and no one was a stranger. She loved animals, music, dancing, singing, The Golden Girls, Andy and Opie, The Wheel of Fortune. She had a sweet tooth for peppermint patties. She often reminisced, on her fondest childhood memories that included attending church with her beloved grandmother, Lottie, singing in the church choir, riding bikes, and playing with her brothers; Tommy and Donald. On sunny days she enjoyed sitting on her porch talking to birds and deer that filled her yard daily. When her neighbors would walk by, she would say "you know what time it is?" And all answered with "it's time to boogie-woogie" and everyone would do a little dance. Free Spirited a bit stubborn, she was loyal and very loving to all that knew her. She will be missed and loved forever! Carol is survived by her children: Deborah Platten of Eugene, OR, Patricia Unkle (Kim) of Piney Point, MD, Catherine Jarvis of Lexington Park, MD, and Kenneth John Davis of Daytona, FL; brother, Thomas Glisson of La Plata, MD; 12 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and extended family and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Jon Platten and brother, Donald Glisson. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. John Nguyen at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at St. George Catholic Church, 19199 St. George's Church Road, Valley Lee, MD 20692. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Mary's, P.O. Box 625, Leonardtown, MD 20650 and St. George Catholic Church, 19199 St. George's Church Road, Valley Lee, MD 20692. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250404/russian-troops-liberate-the-settlements-of-rozovka-and-uspenovka-in-donetsk-1121740393.html Russian Troops Liberate the Settlements of Rozovka and Uspenovka in Donetsk People's Republic Russian Troops Liberate the Settlements of Rozovka and Uspenovka in Donetsk People's Republic Sputnik International Overall, Russian forces have liberated 8 settlements over the past seven days, the Ministry of Defense stressed. 2025-04-04T10:24+0000 2025-04-04T10:24+0000 2025-04-04T12:46+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukrainian crisis russian army russian armed forces russian arms https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/0c/10/1121186680_0:99:3290:1950_1920x0_80_0_0_445fc69bd432efac9c80a136c1092dd9.jpg Key statements from the Russian Defense Ministry's weekly briefing on the special military operation's progress:Ukraine lost up to 3150 soldiers and seven tanks in the areas of responsibility of Russia's Battlegroup Tsentr. Ukraine lost up to 1910 troops and four tanks in the areas of responsibility of Russia's Battlegroup Sever. Ukraine lost up to 1975 militants and four tanks in the Russian Yug Battlegroup's combat zone.Ukraine lost up to 1505 servicemen in the Russian Zapad Battlegroup's combat zone. Ukraine lost up to 435 troops, a tank and ten warehouses in the Russian Dnepr Battlegroup's combat zone. Ukraine has lost up to 9,920 personnel over the past week. Russian air defenses shot down 895 Ukrainian drones. Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russian army, ukrainian crisis, ukraine conflict, hostilities ukraine, ukraine death toll https://sputnikglobe.com/20250404/trump-administration-accepts-ukraine-will-not-become-nato-member---dmitriev-1121739405.html Trump Administration Accepts Ukraine Will Not Become NATO Member - Dmitriev Trump Administration Accepts Ukraine Will Not Become NATO Member - Dmitriev Sputnik International The idea of Ukraine not joining NATO is widely accepted, including by the administration of US President Donald Trump, Special Envoy of the Russian President for Investment and Economic Cooperation Kirill Dmitriev said on Thursday. 2025-04-04T09:50+0000 2025-04-04T09:50+0000 2025-04-04T09:12+0000 world kirill dmitriev donald trump ukraine russia nato ukraine crisis ukrainian crisis ukrainian conflict nato enlargement https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/04/04/1121739545_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_26b3706c0cba90c3eee190b372783481.jpg He recalled in an interview with Fox News that Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Ukraines accession to NATO is impossible.Dmitriev noted that there are currently 150 American companies operating in Russia, with over 70% having been established more than 25 years ago. He also mentioned that American firms are keen to take advantage of the opportunities left by European companies in the Russian market. ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International nato membership, nato enlargement, nato, ukraine in nato, us-ukraine alliance, proxy war, us aid, us military aid, nato troops, us troops, ukraine crisis, nato troops, nato forces, nato-russia war, war in ukraine, aid to ukraine, reinforcements to ukraine, aid ukraine, send forces to ukraine Primo Maschio and driver Trae Porter went coast-to-coast in the $73,571 Delaware Standardbred Breeders Fund Late Closer final for three-year-old colt and gelding pacers on Thursday, April 3 at Bally's Dover. Off of the gate, Primo Maschio squared off with Lew Not Lou (Tim Tetrick), who put up a fight before accepting the pocket trip. After a snappy opening quarter in :27.2, Porter kept Primo Maschio rolling, reaching the half in :56.2. Won Last Call (Montrell Teague) moved first-over from fourth, with Shore Not Beach (Pat Berry) following second-over. Despite the pressure, the 1-9 betting favourite was in complete control, hitting three-quarters in 1:24 with an effortless stride. From there, Primo Maschio powered home in 1:52, pulling away to win by 6-1/2 lengths in a career-best time. Lew Not Lou held for second, while Wyatt Earp (Anthony Morgan) rounded out the top three. Primo Maschio (Badlands Hanover-Primadonna) is owned by Forrest Bartlett of Shiloh, North Carolina. The 23-year-old Trae Porter, who piloted the winner, is the grandson of former catch driver Jim Porter, a familiar name on the Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland circuits. In the $35,211 Open Handicap Pace, Downers Delight (Bettors Delight-Astrmowin) delivered a career-best performance, stopping the clock in 1:49.2 for his fifth consecutive win. Claimed for $50,000 USD earlier in the meet, the gelding now races for TLB Racing LLC of Harrington, Delaware. Trained by Traci Berry and driven by Pat Berry, Downers Delight held off Adam Twelve (Corey Callahan), who finished second, with Leave It to Leo (Montrell Teague) taking third. The local chapter of the United States has named Itsrockandroll A as Horse of the Meet for the 2024-2025 live racing season at Ballys Dover. The 10-year-old A Rocknroll Dance-Miss Worthy Whitby gelding is a true family horse, owned by Bette and Bret Brittingham (mother and son) of Felton and Camden, Delaware, and trained by Don Brittingham (husband and father). Honoured on Wednesday, April 2, Itsrockandroll A put together a stellar campaign during the meet, making 16 starts with eight wins, five second-place finishes, and one third-place effort. He hit the board in 14 of 17 races, reaching over $230,000 in earnings. Driver Tim Tetrick and Trainer Crissy Crissman-Bier achieved leading driver and trainer awards during Dover's 2024-2025 live harness racing season. Tetrick started 621 times and earned 188 driving victories, 109 second-place finishes with 82 show appearances. His UDRS rating was 0.444 with a winning percentage over 30 percent. His drives accounted for $2,331,093 USD in purses earned. I wanted to thank the owners and trainers for the opportunity to drive their horses, said Tetrick, giving props to his fellow horsemen. Ive been competing against a great driver and trainer colony all year. Winning isnt easy at Ballys Dover. The Hall of Famer is looking forward to the spring and summer race meets at other racetracks, with one notable target in his sights. The one race that Ive been close to finishing second a couple of times would be the [Little Brown] Jug. Crissy Crissman-Bier won her first leading trainer crown at Ballys Dover this season. She achieved the same feat at Harrington Raceway during its 2024 race meet. Unlike with Tetrick, her leading trainer crown was decided on the final day of live racing. Crissys horses started 331 times with 68 wins, 47 second-place finishes and 32 third-place finishes. Her UDRS rating was 0.317 while sporting a 20.5 winning percentage and earning $706,000 USD in purses. "I have to thank my husband Sean, he has been great," stated Crissman-Bier. "His hard work allows me to spend more time with the kids. Crissy also cited her dad Chuck Crissman Jr. as having a major impact on her racing career. With the 2024-2025 live harness racing season at Ballys Dover officially concluded, Harrington Raceway is set to launch its 79th live harness racing season on Monday, April 15, 2025, with a 4:30 p.m. post time. (With files from Ballys Dover) Incremental changes, if any, seem in store again for Nebraskas cattle brand laws after state senators Wednesday watered down a bill written to exempt registered feedlots from brand inspections and their fees. Their lengthy debate on Legislative Bill 646 featured western Nebraskas two female lawmakers a Sandhills rancher and a farm-based Dawson County cattle grower leading opposite sides of a dispute that saw an industry-wide search for consensus fall apart nearly five years ago. Lawmakers gave 26-2 first-round approval to LB 646 after earlier agreeing, 31-2, to a full rewrite that sponsoring Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner said won support from the Nebraska Cattlemen board on Tuesday. Instead of exempting registered feedlots within western and central Nebraskas brand inspection area, Ibachs rewritten 2025 priority bill would slash their Nebraska Brand Committee registration fees to $1,000 a year instead of basing them on capacity. To help address lost income for inspections by the Alliance-based committee, the revised LB 646 would raise maximum brand inspection fees from $1.10 to $1.50 per head in 2026. Finally, the new version of Ibachs bill would exempt dairies in the brand area and allow more freedom to transfer cattle to another persons care without physical inspections. Whitman Sen. Tanya Storer, who picked apart Ibachs measure during floor debate, lost a separate 14-9 vote to instead have the Brand Committee recommend changes to inspections and fees by Dec. 31. A majority of the 49 senators didnt vote on Storers proposal. Storer cast the lone no to advance LB 646 among the regions five senators. Gering Sen. Brian Hardin joined Ibach in voting to send the bill to second-round consideration. Sens. Paul Strommen of Sidney and Mike Jacobson of North Platte declined to vote. But Jacobson, who previously withdrew as an LB 646 cosponsor, warned that ranchers and cattle growers inside his District 42 dont like the bill. First try since 2021 The two cattlewomen sometimes asked direct questions of each other, with Storer cautioning against potentially damaging unintended consequences for growers and Ibach saying shes trying to move all sides toward constructive updates to the states 84-year-old brand laws. Ibach, the Agriculture Committees vice chairwoman, said shell work on amendments to address Storers concerns before LB 646 returns to the floor. And if Senator Storer and I cannot come to agreement, then I will not ask to schedule it for further debate, she added. Storer, speaking before Ibach, was more pessimistic. In talks between the two since December, I have made it pretty clear the things that were simply non-negotiable, and they have not been reflected in their entirety in LB 646s current form, she said. Nebraskas last big push for brand reform featured several statewide working group meetings in summer and fall 2020. Led by the Agriculture Committee, its 20 members included lawmakers, ranchers, cow-calf operators, feedlot owners, dairy cattle growers and Brand Committee leaders. The groups last two meetings were in North Platte, where apparent progress at an October 2020 session evaporated a month later. Senators settled in May 2021 for a bill acknowledging non-visual identifiers in proving cattle ownership but retaining Nebraskas 150-year-old emphasis on physical brands. Ibach said brands arent required even inside the states brand inspection area, which covers 52 western and central counties and part of Knox County. But eastern Nebraska feedlots outside the area dont have to pay their western counterparts registration fees of $1 per head up to their feedlots capacity. The brand areas 93 registered feedlots pay hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to an agency simply because of where they are located, she said, though the Brand Committee admits time and again that stolen or missing cattle do not appear in registered feedlots. Nebraska Farm Bureau opposes LB 646 in favor of statewide brand inspections, Ibach said. But that simply at this point, and in future points, is unrealistic. Storer replied that suddenly slashing feedlot fees inside the brand area would hobble Brand Committee inspectors by erasing more than $1 million from their $5.6 million to $5.8 million budget. The committee doesnt receive state taxes. Blackshirt Feeders, a Canadian-led group, is building a 150,000-head Dundy County feedlot in the brand area north of Haigler. The fact that this (bill) doesnt provide for any per-head fee or any charge that is relevant to the size is problematic, Storer said. Though he represents some feedlots and the soon-to-open Sustainable Beef meatpacking plant, Jacobson said, I have cow-calf producers that have overloaded me with emails opposing lower fees for feedlots. At the end of the day, Im in cow-calf country, he said. Theyre my constituents, and my constituents are telling me: Vote no. Law enforcement Storer pinpointed other parts of Ibachs LB 646 rewrite that she said could make it easier for people to steal cattle or commit ownership fraud. They included sections allowing more leeway for affiliated grow yards to move cattle between locations and saying that statements, circumstances or other facts could substitute for brand inspection when cattle are put in anothers care without being sold. Ibach noted a Brand Committee report that zero estray cattle had been found in registered feedlots in 2023-24. But audits by brand inspectors often find other problems, Storer replied. This is no different than law enforcement, she said, as the inspectors also are deputy state sheriffs. So the brand inspection and the mandatory inspections are not necessarily there to make sure no ones stealing cattle from the feedlot but also to make sure feedlots arent stealing cattle from their customers. Ibach, noting she and her family brand cattle themselves, said the revised LB 646 isnt meant to cripple any part of Nebraskas cattle industry. I think it is valid to say that the brand inspection process works when it works, she said. But her bill aims to find solutions to this problem, not kicking the can down the road. A few senators said theyd rather see brand inspections become voluntary statewide, as states like Kansas or Texas have done, or hand them over completely to the private sector. Storer replied that the Nebraska Stock Growers Association, a predecessor to the Nebraska Cattlemen, oversaw brands and inspections from early statehood days until 1941. A court ruling back then said a private institution cannot do law enforcement, she said. Jacobson, founder of North Platte-based NebraskaLand Bank, told of a cattle-growing customer who had $4.5 million of cattle stolen after he took them down to Texas to graze for a time. My concern first and foremost is if were going to have a brand inspection, and I believe we probably should, we need to make sure there arent any holes in the process, he said. 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 Zip Code Anushka Sanjay Shah Vs ITO (ITAT Mumbai) ITAT Mumbai ruled in favor of Anushka Sanjay Shah, a non-resident Indian (NRI), in a dispute concerning the taxability of capital gains from mutual funds under the India-Singapore DTAA. The dispute arose after the Assessing Officer (AO) and Dispute Resolution Panel (DRP) determined that short-term capital gains of 1,35,66,368 from mutual fund units were taxable in India. The assessee argued that, as a Singapore tax resident, these gains should be exempt under Article 13(5) of the India-Singapore DTAA, which states that gains from property Please become a Premium member. If you are already a Premium member, login here to access the full content. 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: University of Rochester illustration / Sandra Knispel using ChatGPT by OpenAI Turns out, training artificial intelligence systems is not unlike raising a child. That's why some AI researchers have begun mimicking the way children naturally acquire knowledge and learn about the world around themthrough exploration, curiosity, gradual learning, and positive reinforcement. "A lot of problems with AI algorithms today could be addressed by taking ideas from neuroscience and child development," says Christopher Kanan, an associate professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Rochester, and an expert in artificial intelligence, continual learning, vision, and brain-inspired algorithms. Of course, learning and being able to reason like a humanjust faster and possibly betteropens up questions about how best to keep humans safe from ever-advancing AI systems. That's why Kanan says all AI systems need to have guardrails built in, but doing so at the very end of the development is too late. "It shouldn't be the last step, otherwise we can unleash a monster." What is artificial general intelligence and how does it differ from other types of AI? AI involves creating computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as perception, reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving. Traditionally, much of AI research has focused on building systems designed for specific tasksso-called artificial narrow intelligence (ANI). Examples include systems for image recognition, voice assistants, or playing strategic games, all of which can perform their tasks exceptionally well, often surpassing humans. Then there is artificial general intelligence (AGI), which aims to build systems capable of understanding, reasoning, and learning across a wide range of tasks, much like humans do. Achieving AGI remains a major goal in AI research but has not yet been accomplished. Beyond AGI lies artificial superintelligence (ASI)a form of AI vastly exceeding human intelligence in virtually every domain, which remains speculative and is currently confined to science fiction. In my lab, we're particularly interested in moving closer to artificial general intelligence by drawing inspiration from neuroscience and child development, enabling AI systems to learn and adapt continually, much like human children do. What are some of the ways that AI can 'learn?' ANI is successful thanks to deep learning, which since about 2014 has been used to train these systems to learn from large amounts of data annotated by humans. Deep learning involves training large artificial neural networks composed of many interconnected layers. Today, deep learning underpins most modern AI applications, from computer vision and natural language processing to robotics and biomedical research. These systems excel at tasks like image recognition, language translation, playing complex games such as Go and chess, and generating text, images, and even code. A large language model (LLM) like OpenAI's GPT-4 is trained on enormous amounts of text using self-supervised learning. This means the model learns by predicting the next word or phrase from existing text, without explicit human guidance or labels. These models are typically trained on trillions of wordsessentially the entirety of human writing available online, including books, articles, and websites. To put this in perspective, if a human attempted to read all this text, it would take tens of thousands of lifetimes. Following this extensive initial training, the model undergoes supervised fine-tuning, where humans provide examples of preferred outputs, guiding the model toward generating responses that align closely with human preferences. Lastly, techniques such as reinforcement learning with human feedback (RLHF) are applied to shape the model's behavior by defining acceptable boundaries for what it can or cannot generate. What are AIs really good at? They are excellent at tasks involving human languages, including translation, essay writing, text editing, providing feedback, and acting as personalized writing tutors. They can pass standardized tests. For example, OpenAI's GPT-4 achieves top-tier scores on really challenging tests such as the Bar Exam (90th percentile), LSAT (88th percentile), GRE Quantitative (80th percentile), GRE Verbal (99th percentile), USMLE, and several Advanced Placement tests. They even excel on Ph.D.-level math exams. Surprisingly, studies have shown they have greater emotional intelligence than humans. Beyond tests, LLMs can serve as co-scientists, assisting researchers in generating novel hypotheses, drafting research proposals, and synthesizing complex scientific literature. They're increasingly being incorporated into multimodal systems designed for vision-language tasks, robotics, and real-world action planning. What are some of the current limitations of generative AI tools? LLMs can still "hallucinate," which means they confidently produce plausible-sounding but incorrect information. Their reasoning and planning capabilities, while rapidly improving, are still limited compared to human-level flexibility and depth. And they don't continually learn from experience; their knowledge is effectively frozen after training, meaning they lack awareness of recent developments or ongoing changes in the world. Current generative AI systems also lack metacognition, which means they typically don't know what they don't know, and they rarely ask clarifying questions when faced with uncertainty or ambiguous prompts. This absence of self-awareness limits their effectiveness in real-world interactions. Humans excel at continual learning, where early-acquired skills serve as the basis for increasingly complex abilities. For instance, infants must first master basic motor control before progressing to walking, running, or even gymnastics. Today's LLMs neither demonstrate nor are effectively evaluated on this type of cumulative, forward-transfer learning. Addressing this limitation is a primary goal of my lab's research. What main challenges and risks does AI pose? Generative AI is already significantly transforming the workplace. It's particularly disruptive for white-collar rolespositions that traditionally require specialized education or expertisebecause AI copilots empower individual workers to substantially increase their productivity; they can transform novices into operating at a level closer to that of experts. This increased productivity means companies could operate effectively with significantly fewer employees, raising the possibility of large-scale reductions in white-collar roles across many industries. In contrast, jobs requiring human dexterity, creativity, leadership, and direct physical interaction, such as skilled trades, health care positions involving direct patient care, or craftsmanship, are unlikely to be replaced by AI anytime soon. While scenarios like Nick Bostrom's famous "Paperclip Maximizer," in which AGI inadvertently destroys humanity, are commonly discussed, I think the greater immediate risk are humans who may deliberately use advanced AI for catastrophic purposes. Efforts should focus on international cooperation, responsible development, and investment in academic safety AI research. To ensure AI is developed and used safely, we need regulation around specific applications. Interestingly, the people asking for government regulation now are the ones who run the AI companies. But personally, I'm also worried about regulation that could eliminate open-source AI efforts, stifle innovation, and concentrate the benefits of AI among the few. What are the chances of achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI)? The three "godfathers" of modern AI and Turing Award winnersYoshua Bengio, Geoffrey Hinton, and Yann LeCunall agree that achieving AGI is possible. Recently, Bengio and Hinton have expressed significant concern, cautioning that AGI could potentially pose an existential risk to humanity. Nevertheless, I don't think any of themor Ibelieve that today's LLM architectures alone will be sufficient to achieve true AGI. LLMs inherently reason using language, whereas for humans, language primarily serves as a means of communication rather than a primary medium for thought itself. This reliance on language inherently constrains the ability of LLMs to engage in abstract reasoning or visualization, limiting their potential for broader, human-like intelligence. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: This undated file photo shows the Los Alamos National Laboratory in Los Alamos, N.M. Credit: The Albuquerque Journal via AP, File The U.S. Department of Energy said it has identified 16 federal sites, including storied nuclear research laboratories such as Los Alamos, where tech companies could build data centers in a push to accelerate commercial development of artificial intelligence technology. The sites are "uniquely positioned for rapid data center construction, including in-place energy infrastructure with the ability to fast-track permitting for new energy generation such as nuclear," the agency said in a statement Thursday. The move follows an executive order signed in January by outgoing President Joe Biden that sought to remove hurdles for AI data center expansion in the U.S. while also encouraging those data centers, which require large amounts of electricity, to be powered with renewable energy. While President Donald Trump has since sought to erase most of Biden's signature AI policies, he made clear after returning to the White House that he had no interest in rescinding Biden's data center order. "I'd like to see federal lands opened up for data centers," Trump said in January. "I think they're going to be very important." The lands identified as potential sites include a number of national laboratories, such as the New Mexico-centered Los Alamos and Sandia laboratories and Oak Ridge in Tennessee. The Summit supercomputer is seen on the campus of Oak Ridge National Laboratory on June 10, 2019 in Oak Ridge, Tenn. Credit: C.B. Schmelter/Chattanooga Times Free Press via AP, File The Multiprogram Research Facility is seen at Oak Ridge National Laboratory June 10, 2019 in Oak Ridge, Tenn. Credit: C.B. Schmelter/Chattanooga Times Free Press via AP, FIle While the tech industry has long relied on data centers to run online services, from email and social media to financial transactions, new AI technology behind popular chatbots and generative AI tools requires even more powerful computation to build and operate. A report released by the Department of Energy late last year estimated that the electricity needed for data centers in the U.S. tripled over the past decade and is projected to double or triple again by 2028 when it could consume up to 12% of the nation's electricity. The United States, under both presidents, has been speeding up efforts to license and build a new generation of nuclear reactors to supply carbon-free electricity. While Biden's executive order focused on powering AI infrastructure with clean energy sources such as "geothermal, solar, wind, and nuclear," Thursday's statement from Trump's energy department focused only on nuclear. But in a lengthy request for information sought from data center and energy developers, the agency outlines a variety of electricity sources available at each site, from solar arrays to gas turbines. 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. 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: Pictured here is the Hedwig Oldendorff vessel at the Port of Taicang, China, prior to the start of the emission monitoring voyage. Credit: Patricia Stathatou When the International Maritime Organization enacted a mandatory cap on the sulfur content of marine fuels in 2020, with an eye toward reducing harmful environmental and health impacts, it left shipping companies with several main options. They could burn low-sulfur fossil fuels, like marine gas oil, or install cleaning systems to remove sulfur from the exhaust gas produced by burning heavy fuel oil. Biofuels with lower sulfur content offer another alternative, though their limited availability makes them a less feasible option. While installing exhaust gas cleaning systems, known as scrubbers, is the most feasible and cost-effective option, there has been a great deal of uncertainty among firms, policymakers, and scientists as to how "green" these scrubbers are. Through a novel lifecycle assessment, researchers from MIT, Georgia Tech, and elsewhere have now found that burning heavy fuel oil with scrubbers in the open ocean can match or surpass using low-sulfur fuels, when a wide variety of environmental factors is considered. The scientists combined data on the production and operation of scrubbers and fuels with emissions measurements taken onboard an oceangoing cargo ship. They found that, when the entire supply chain is considered, burning heavy fuel oil with scrubbers was the least harmful option in terms of nearly all 10 environmental impact factors they studied, such as greenhouse gas emissions, terrestrial acidification, and ozone formation. "In our collaboration with Oldendorff Carriers to broadly explore reducing the environmental impact of shipping, this study of scrubbers turned out to be an unexpectedly deep and important transitional issue," says Neil Gershenfeld, an MIT professor, director of the Center for Bits and Atoms (CBA), and senior author of the study. "Claims about environmental hazards and policies to mitigate them should be backed by science. You need to see the data, be objective, and design studies that take into account the full picture to be able to compare different options from an apples-to-apples perspective," adds lead author Patricia Stathatou, an assistant professor at Georgia Tech, who began this study as a postdoc in the CBA. Stathatou is joined on the paper by Michael Triantafyllou, the Henry L. and Grace Doherty and others at the National Technical University of Athens in Greece and the maritime shipping firm Oldendorff Carriers. The research is published today in Environmental Science and Technology. Slashing sulfur emissions Heavy fuel oil, traditionally burned by bulk carriers that make up about 30% of the global maritime fleet, usually has a sulfur content of about 2% to 3%. This is far higher than the International Maritime Organization's 2020 cap of 0.5% in most areas of the ocean and 0.1% in areas near population centers or environmentally sensitive regions. Sulfur oxide emissions contribute to air pollution and acid rain, and can damage the human respiratory system. In 2018, fewer than 1,000 vessels employed scrubbers. After the cap went into place, higher prices of low-sulfur fossil fuels and limited availability of alternative fuels led many firms to install scrubbers so they could keep burning heavy fuel oil. Today, more than 5,800 vessels utilize scrubbers, the majority of which are wet, open-loop scrubbers. "Scrubbers are a very mature technology. They have traditionally been used for decades in land-based applications like power plants to remove pollutants," Stathatou says. A wet, open-loop marine scrubber is a huge, metal, vertical tank installed in a ship's exhaust stack, above the engines. Inside, seawater drawn from the ocean is sprayed through a series of nozzles downward to wash the hot exhaust gases as they exit the engines. The seawater interacts with sulfur dioxide in the exhaust, converting it to sulfateswater-soluble, environmentally benign compounds that naturally occur in seawater. The washwater is released back into the ocean, while the cleaned exhaust escapes to the atmosphere with little to no sulfur dioxide emissions. But the acidic washwater can contain other combustion byproducts like heavy metals, so scientists wondered if scrubbers were comparable, from a holistic environmental point of view, to burning low-sulfur fuels. Several studies explored toxicity of washwater and fuel system pollution, but none painted a full picture. The researchers set out to fill that scientific gap. A 'well-to-wake' analysis The team conducted a lifecycle assessment using a global environmental database on production and transport of fossil fuels, such as heavy fuel oil, marine gas oil, and very-low sulfur fuel oil. Considering the entire lifecycle of each fuel is key, since producing low-sulfur fuel requires extra processing steps in the refinery, causing additional emissions of greenhouse gases and particulate matter. "If we just look at everything that happens before the fuel is bunkered onboard the vessel, heavy fuel oil is significantly more low-impact, environmentally, than low-sulfur fuels," she says. The researchers also collaborated with a scrubber manufacturer to obtain detailed information on all materials, production processes, and transportation steps involved in marine scrubber fabrication and installation. "If you consider that the scrubber has a lifetime of about 20 years, the environmental impacts of producing the scrubber over its lifetime are negligible compared to producing heavy fuel oil," she adds. For the final piece, Stathatou spent a week onboard a bulk carrier vessel in China to measure emissions and gather seawater and washwater samples. The ship burned heavy fuel oil with a scrubber and low-sulfur fuels under similar ocean conditions and engine settings. Collecting these onboard data was the most challenging part of the study. "All the safety gear, combined with the heat and the noise from the engines on a moving ship, was very overwhelming," she says. Their results showed that scrubbers reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by 97%, putting heavy fuel oil on par with low-sulfur fuels according to that measure. The researchers saw similar trends for emissions of other pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide. In addition, they tested washwater samples for more than 60 chemical parameters, including nitrogen, phosphorus, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and 23 metals. The concentrations of chemicals regulated by the IMO were far below the organization's requirements. For unregulated chemicals, the researchers compared the concentrations to the strictest limits for industrial effluents from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and European Union. Most chemical concentrations were at least an order of magnitude below these requirements. In addition, since washwater is diluted thousands of times as it is dispersed by a moving vessel, the concentrations of such chemicals would be even lower in the open ocean. These findings suggest that the use of scrubbers with heavy fuel oil can be considered as equal to or more environmentally friendly than low-sulfur fuels across many of the impact categories the researchers studied. "This study demonstrates the scientific complexity of the waste stream of scrubbers. Having finally conducted a multiyear, comprehensive, and peer-reviewed study, commonly held fears and assumptions are now put to rest," says Scott Bergeron, managing director at Oldendorff Carriers and co-author of the study. "This first-of-its-kind study on a well-to-wake basis provides very valuable input to ongoing discussion at the IMO," adds Thomas Klenum, executive vice president of innovation and regulatory affairs at the Liberian Registry, emphasizing the need "for regulatory decisions to be made based on scientific studies providing factual data and conclusions." Ultimately, this study shows the importance of incorporating lifecycle assessments into future environmental impact reduction policies, Stathatou says. "There is all this discussion about switching to alternative fuels in the future, but how green are these fuels? We must do our due diligence to compare them equally with existing solutions to see the costs and benefits," she adds. This story is republished courtesy of MIT News (web.mit.edu/newsoffice/), a popular site that covers news about MIT research, innovation and teaching. 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: Attendees are pictured before a presentation of the Microsoft's AI assistant, Copilot, and celebration of the company's 50th anniversary at Microsoft headquarters, Friday, April 4, 2025, in Redmond, Wash. Credit: AP Photo/Jason Redmond Fifty years after the founding of Microsoft, the CEO of its artificial intelligence division has a big task: develop a new product line as integral to daily life as the software giant's past innovations. "We're really trying to land this idea that everybody is going to have their own personalized AI companion," said Mustafa Suleyman in an interview with The Associated Press. "It will, over time, have its own name, its own style. It will adapt to you. It may also have its own visual appearance and expressions." Suleyman laid out that vision on Microsoft's 50th anniversary Friday. The celebration at Microsoft's headquarters in Redmond, Washington featured the first public gathering in more than a decade of co-founder and former CEO Bill Gates with his two successors: Steve Ballmer, who led the company from 2000 to 2014, and the current chief executive, Satya Nadella. Giving the mic to Suleyman, who joined the company and Nadella's senior leadership team just over a year ago to head a newly formed Microsoft AI division, signals how important getting its AI right is to the company's futurein the next five years if not the next 50. The company's flagship product of this AI era, Copilot, already combines a chatbot with Microsoft's suite of workaday tools, from Excel spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations to the Windows operating system that defines how most computers work. But Suleyman is striving for something that sounds a little more like science fictiona technology that can form a "lasting, meaningful relationship" with its users. "One that knows your name, gets to know you, has a memory of everything that you've shared with it and talked about and really comes to kind of live life alongside you," he said. "It's far more than just a piece of software or a tool. It is unlike anything we've really ever created." Some of those updatessuch as new "visual memory" capabilities that keep track of a user's digital activity, if they want thatroll out on mobile apps Friday. Other features are still in development, such as an animated avatara talking peacock in Suleyman's demo Fridaythat would embody a person's AI companion. Mustafa Suleyman co founder and CEO of Inflection AI speaks to journalist during the AI Safety Summit in Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes, England, Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Alastair Grant, File Suleyman, 40, came to Microsoft last year with plenty of credentials in the AI business. In his 20s, the British entrepreneur cofounded the legendary DeepMind AI research lab in London, which Google later purchased in 2014. He worked there until 2022, when he left to set up the new company Inflection AI with LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman. Microsoft then scooped up Suleyman and other Inflection leaders without formally acquiring the startup, attracting months of antitrust scrutiny. He also cowrote a 2023 book, "The Coming Wave," focused on AI's promise and the need to limit its potential perils. But unlike DeepMind, or another famous AI research lab, San Francisco-based OpenAI, both of which have explicitly set out to build better-than-human AI known as artificial general intelligence, Suleyman is not too worried about such abstractions in his new job running Microsoft's consumer AI business. "My goal is really to create a true personal AI companion," he said. "And the definition of AGI sort of feels very far out to me and sort of not what I'm focused on in the next few years." The race to build the best AI personal assistant that sticks with consumers is a competitive one. In recent weeks, rivals including Google and Meta Platforms have shaken up the teams in charge of AI research or products. ChatGPT maker OpenAI, which is both Microsoft's most important AI partner and a growing competitor, has also reorganized its leadership. Amazon is also looking to catch up by imbuing its already-ubiquitous digital assistant Alexa with more advanced AI capabilities. "It's a super competitive market but this is absolutely foundational to us," Suleyman said. "Copilot in the workplace, Copilot at home is the future of the company. On the consumer side, we are going to be committed to this for many decades to come. We really think it's the major platform shift that we have to win." Even as competition ramps up, so does wariness from Wall Street and big business customers about whether these AI products are worth their huge costs in computing power and energy. Suleyman's own daily interactions with Copilot demonstrate the shortcomings of generative AI technology that is prone to confidently spouting falsehoodsknown as hallucinationsand still struggles to match some of the commonsense reasoning skills that come naturally to humans. Attendees are pictured before a presentation of Microsoft's AI assistant, Copilot, and celebration of the company's 50th anniversary at Microsoft headquarters, Friday, April 4, 2025, in Redmond, Wash. Credit: AP Photo/Jason Redmond Asked about how he's using the technology in his daily life, Suleyman scrolled through his phone and candidly revealed his most recent chatbot conversationsincluding, in preparation for Friday's event, his request for it to calculate Microsoft's all-time cumulative revenue over 50 years. "It didn't correctly add up all of the revenue," he said. "That's a pretty hard problem, although it got it really close." He also recounted more playful encounters, such as a long chat about "whether to put minced beef or chunks of beef" in a chili recipe and uploading a photo of his acai bowl so that Copilot could visually analyze its contents. "We talked about how many calories were in itit was 465 caloriesand does it vary based on how much sweetener is in there and how much honey," Suleyman said. "It couldn't see the honey, but it could see all the other pieces. And I kind of got into a long back and forth about what is acai and where does it come from." Microsoft's own researchers, in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University, recently published a study that found that generative AI can inhibit critical thinking skills of human workers and lead to overreliance on the technologya conclusion that Suleyman says he disagrees with. Making chatbots fun, useful and personable might be key in winning over workers wary of the technologyespecially when Gates, Suleyman and other tech leaders from Microsoft and elsewhere have loudly sounded the warning about their coming effects on employment. "The truth is that the nature of work is going to change," Suleyman said during a video interview on Microsoft's Teams platform, a way of communicating he said would have been unimaginable 30 to 50 years ago. Mustafa Suleyman co founder and CEO of Inflection AI speaks to journalist during the AI Safety Summit in Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes, England, Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Alastair Grant, File "Now, it's kind of unimaginable to think that you're going to have a bunch of agents working for you at the office," he said. "There will be much less of the administration, much less of the drudgery ... which I think is going to free us up as knowledge workers to be a lot more creative and focus on the bigger picture." In our home life, too, a personal AI assistant is "going to take care of a tremendous amount of boring, tiring, exhausting administration in the back end. Booking, planning, organizing, buying, sourcing, researching, comparing. We've never had anything like that before that can automate all of those things. It's going to be pretty amazing." As he outlined those ideas in his keynote speech Friday, a shouting protester interrupted Suleyman to protest Microsoft's contracts to provide AI and cloud computing services to the Israeli military. An AP investigation revealed earlier this year that AI models from Microsoft and OpenAI had been used as part of an Israeli military program to select bombing targets during the recent wars in Gaza and Lebanon. "Thank you, I hear your protest," Suleyman said repeatedly, before the shouting stopped and he returned to talking about AI companions. 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. On a day South Carolina senators formally introduced a resolution to remove state Treasurer Curtis Loftis, he remained defiant and confirmed his plans to run for reelection next year reversing course from a previous announcement. Loftis last year said he did not intend to run for reelection in 2026, a statement he made during a Senate budget hearing where a panel grilled on the $1.8 billion accounting error. But Loftis, who was first elected treasurer in 2010, has complained about the investigation into the accounting error, calling it a witch hunt, and questioned its legitimacy. His anger over the investigation and an effort to preserve his legacy have now pushed him to run for another four-year term, he said. Right now, the greatest threat to our states financial stability isnt external: Its from power-hungry politicians who never rest in their relentless, politically motivated attacks on my office, Loftis said in his campaign announcement shared first with The State. Loftis, a Republican, did not face a primary challenge in 2022. In the general election, he received 79.67% against a third-party challenger who received 19% of the vote. No Democrat ran for the office. Winning the Republican nomination will most likely be key in the statewide election as South Carolina is a reliably Republican state. The move to run for reelection comes as a source close to Loftis maintains the treasurer has strong support and has substantial funding to run a campaign. Get The Times and Democrat app today Local news has never been this personal. Free to download. Subscribers enjoy unlimited access. A Senate report called for Loftis removal for willful neglect after a two-year investigation into the $1.8 billion listing. In a letter, Loftis argued to Senate President Thomas Alexander and Senate Finance Chairman Harvey Peeler the panel led by state Sen. Larry Grooms, R-Berkeley, exceeded its legal authority saying Senate subcommittees are not inherently empowered to conduct unscheduled investigations. State law says a motion is needed to call for an investigation with a clear subject matter and scope. However, state law also says nothing prohibits the Senate president or chairman of a standing committee from authorizing investigations into agencies functions, duties and activities. Loftis even called on Senate Judiciary Chairman Luke Rankin to review the Finance Committees actions and investigation. This is not about good governance its about a power grab by a few who seek to control tens of billions of public dollars for their own special interests, Loftis said in his letter to supporters. They dont want an elected State Treasurer who answers to the people. They want an appointed treasurer they can control. Loftis: Stop the witch hunt protect SCs financial future The State Treasurer of South Carolina faces baseless attacks from senators aiming to seize control, threatening financial stability and voter rights. Loftis may not have many allies in the Senate. Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said the report issued by Grooms is concerning, pointing to the need to hire an outside compliance officer to oversee the treasurer, comptroller and auditors offices, and an ongoing SEC investigation into the states finances. South Carolina treasurer calls questions of his role in $1.8 billion accounting error a witch hunt COLUMBIA South Carolina Treasurer Curtis Loftis said Wednesday that calls for him to resign over an accounting error that left the state try The more senators hear him talk, the more they want to get rid of him, Massey said of Loftis. I think theres some real concerning things that are out there. And if the body decides not to go that route, were going to have to figure out how to manage that office over the next two years, because hes not capable of doing it himself. A hearing in the Senate over whether Loftis should be removed from office for willful neglect is expected to take place April 21. During the Senate hearing, Grooms and state Sen. Stephen Goldfinch, R-Goldfinch, are slated to present the case for removing Loftis. The treasurer will be allowed to defend himself on the Senate floor. If two-thirds of the Senate vote in favor of the resolution, it would then move to the House for its consideration. Whether the votes are in the House to remove Loftis is unknown. We want to make sure that as thorough a investigation is as reasonably possible is undertaken before jumping to such a drastic conclusion like removing a statewide elected official, said state Rep. Micah Caskey, R-Lexington. An outside forensic auditor concluded that most of the $1.8 billion did not exist and that the then comptroller-generals office and state auditor were aware of the accounting issue for years without alerting the General Assembly. Previous Comptroller-General Richard Eckstrom resigned in 2023 after he disclosed he inflated the states books by $3.5 billion over the course of a decade. State Auditor George Kennedy resigned earlier this year after outside forensic issued their reports this year. According to Windsford Harry, President of the National Fisherfolk Association, operating cost for fisherfolk using the Kingstown Fish Market have increased since the introduction of changes by new management, the Agricultural Warehouse. While Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Saboto Caesar made brag about the $250,000.00 in vouchers that were made available to fisherfolk here for redemption at Lulleys Fishing Supplies for acquisition of fishing equipment and supplies, all is not well with the relationship between fisherfolk and the Management of the Kingstown Fishing Complex/Fish Market. As he is wont to do, Minister Caesar encouraged voucher recipients to use the vouchers and the assistance available under the direct production support programme, some $2.5 million, to expand production, enhance food security, and improve their livelihoods. But all is not well with fisher folk, especially those who are accustomed making use of the Kingstown Fishing Complex which is now under the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Input Warehouse. According to Winsford Harry, President of the National Fisherfolk Association (NFA), fisherfolk are not comfortable with a number of changes introduced by the Agriculture Input Warehouse, as it relates to operations at the Kingstown Fishing Complex/Kingstown Fish Market. Among these changes, Harry said in an interview with SVG TV, was the $0.25 per pound charged for storage of fish. And fishers have until 3:00pm to get their catch into the Fish Market, for that is the time at which the Facility is closed to them. In addition, once fishers were given ice free of charge, now they have to pay for it as they are now required to do for the use of ice boxes. Harry also highlighted that fishers are being discouraged from tying their boats at the Kingstown Facilitys jetty, and if they are allowed to, they must now pay $25.00 for that privilege. As an alternative to using the jetty, fishers are being encouraged to take their boats to Lowmans Bay but Harry said, in addition to safety issues at Lowmans, there are no toilet facilities there. All in all, Harry spoke of the increasing operating costs for fisherfolk. This, he identified as being among the reasons why there is "a reduction in fish like dolphin, king fish and tuna, in recent time, at the Kingstown Fish Market. And even as he acknowledged the efforts made to improve the capacity of fisherfolk across the country through various training programmes, the President of the NFA asserted that the operations of the fishing industry were being threatened. He warned that if things didnt improve, "if the bullying by the Input Warehouse dont stop, fishers will resort to a "go slow and if things dont improve, a strike. Montgomery Daniel vacates his MP seat but feels assured that the North Windward constituency will remain with the ULP. Montgomery Daniel, outgoing Parliamentary Representative for North Windward, said that he is leaving the constituency in safe hands. Dr. Grace Walters will vacate his position as Administrator of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) to replace Daniel as the candidate to contest the upcoming general election. And Daniel, while speaking at the Unity Labour Partys (ULP) 24th anniversary rally on March 30, said that Walters was going to ensure that the ULP remain in office. "In 2001 you voted Labour and gave us the first term, in 2005 you said Labour is Better by Far, in 2010 you said Me nah tun back and you kept the comrade there, in 2015 you said to Own the Campaign and you delivered in 2020, he told the large gathering. "And in 2025 I am looking forward to you saying, I say Grace beyond to you. Grace beyond to you in 20205 and so Grace will ensure that the ULP for the next election will have 6 in a row, Daniel continued. He commended the ULP for the work done in the constituency over the past 24 years, saying that before 2001, St Vincent and the Grenadines was like a ship sailing without a rudder. There were limited opportunities for young people in education, mediocre health facilities and staff, a poor road network and most importantly, no access to the people in the North. That was until the construction of the Rabacca bridge in 2007 which, according to Daniel, has now given farmers in the Northern, most communities, easier access to the rest of the country. And with the recent acquisition of Balliceaux, Daniel said that the people, particularly of Sandy Bay, were pleased and proud of the action. "Because we understand the pride and dignity of our ancestors, particularly those who suffered that tragic trip between here and Balliceaux, he said. In what may probably be his last presentation on the political platform, Daniel who is now the longest serving Parliamentary Representative for North Windward, thanked the people for giving him the opportunity to lead and to work on their behalf. "The task has not been an easy one, but I can say to you that your decision would have been a noble one, he said. "Your decision helped to build the constituency of North Windward and the country. He said that he had already signalled that he will no longer contest general elections but reiterated that he was leaving the constituency in safe hands. "I want to say to you, you could put your pot on the fire that Grace is going to win the elections and win even bigger than when I won in 2001 and 2020, Daniel told his supporters. "You have given your party the opportunity to build the country and lift the country higher, he added. A resident of Diamond was on Tuesday 1st April, 20245 shot in broad daylight at Mahogany Square (business entity), close to the Girls High School Bus Stop on Murrays Road. According to a report, Michael (Boxer) Richards of Diamond was ambushed and shot by masked gunmen sometime around 1:15 p.m. A police report on the incident said that law enforcement officers responded swiftly to reports of gunfire in the area and, upon arrival, discovered that a male had sustained gunshot injuries. The victim was transported to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, where he received emergency medical attention. Up to press time Thursday, he was aid to be in critical condition at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where he remains under observation. Investigations into the matter are ongoing. One witness, told THE VINCENTIAN that they were in the vicinity waiting for a bus when he heard the sound of gunshot. "I was waiting on a van to go to Brighton, so my back was turn (to Mahogany Square. Then I heard the loud explanations. When I turn around, I see people running, so I started to run too. I never frighten in my life so. The man who got shot was there for a while until police came, said the witness, adding that he normally goes to high school bus stop where he can get a van in quicker time than if he goes to Tokyo or the bus stop outside Peace Memorial Hall. Hours later, the police revealed that two suspects were arrested in connection with the shooting. On Thursday, the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Forces confirmed in a release that they had arrested and formally charged two individuals in connection with the shooting incident. Laurent Isidore, a 26-year-old labourer of St. Lucia/Gibson Corner, and Keon Hackshaw, a 17-year-old labourer of Ottley Hall, were jointly charged with the offence of attempted murder. The charge alleges that on April 1, 2025, at approximately 1:00 p.m., with intent to commit the offence of murder on Michael Richards, a 26-year-old steel bender of Diamond, they did an act which is more than merely preparatory to the commission of the offence, namely, by shooting him about the body with a firearm. In addition to the joint charge, each accused was separately charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm with intent to commit the offence of murder and the unlawful use of a firearm. Police officers apprehended the accused shortly after the commission of the offence and recovered two firearms, one from each accused. Both accused men appeared before the Serious Offences Court on April 3, 2025, and were remanded into custody. They are scheduled to reappear before the court on April 10, 2025, for arraignment. Due to the indictable nature of the offences, they will not be required to plea at that stage. The victim, Michael Richards, is reported to be in critical condition at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital and remains under observation. Investigations into the matter are ongoing. (TBTCO) - Trong khi cac thong tin chinh thuc van ang uoc lam ro, tuyen bo moi tu phia My ve chinh sach thue oi voi hang hoa Viet Nam ang uoc gioi chuyen gia va nha au tu theo doi sat sao. Theo anh gia ban au, Viet Nam van co the tiep tuc duy tri loi the canh tranh trong chuoi cung ung va thu hut dong von au tu nuoc ngoai. 04/04/2025 Jesper Lindstrom could be out for a while after suffering a groin injury while Iliman Ndiaye and Dwight McNeil are in contention to make the Everton squad ahead of the clash against Arsenal at Goodison Park on Saturday. Lindstrom, on loan from Serie A side Napoli, was sidelined from the Merseyside derby against Liverpool on Wednesday following a groin strain. The full extent of his injury has been diagnosed and he could face an extended absence, confirmed manager David Moyes in his pre-match press conference. Jespers not available [for the match against Arsenal.] Hes going to get checked with a specialist, said Moyes. Hes got a groin problem. Were also looking to see if its a hernia and so he wont be available. On the positive side of things, Iliman Ndiaye is inching closer to full-match fitness with the Senegalese winger coming off the bench for 20 minutes in the 1-0 loss to Liverpool on Wednesday. It was his first appearance since getting sidelined with a knee injury in February. Dwight McNeil, who has also suffered from a knee issue and has been out since December, has returned to full training and could make it to the matchday squad against the Gunners. [Ndiaye and McNeil] are both back in training. Ili has been back in training, obviously, and we got him some minutes the other night. Look, hes getting closer, its just that hes probably lacking real match fitness but hes back in the frame and were considering him, Moyes added. Dwight is back in training. Hes been back in and had three or four days now on the grass so hes getting closer and if we can get him involved we will do. The Blues have had an extremely short turnaround period since the gruelling and draining Merseyside derby midweek and the returns of Ndiaye and McNeil could be welcome additions to the squad. Note: the following content is not moderated or vetted by the site owners at the time of submission. Comments are the responsibility of the poster. Disclaimer () How to get rid of these ads and support TW ToffeeWeb 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). 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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 Former prime minister Stuart Young is leading the legal team representing former Central Bank Governor Dr Alvin Hilaire in his wrongful dismissal battle against the State. On Wednesday, Hilaire told the Express that his attorneys issued a pre-action protocol letter to the Attorney General and the Cabinet Secretariat. When asked by the Express to provide a copy of the pre-action letter and the names of his attorneys, Hilaire responded yesterday, declining to share the letter but confirming that Young is leading his legal team. A PRIVATE contractor is dead after an accident in Tobago. Police have identified the victim as Darryl Figaro of Black Rock, Tobago. He died on Wednesday after falling from a ladder while working at a private villa. An autopsy of Figaros body yesterday at the Scarborough Mortuary determined injuries were consistent with a fall, and it ruled out foul play. The body was previously identified by the victims daughter. My wife and I are in our sunset years and have been trying to deal with the many issues of our health, so our doctors have been giving us prescriptions for medication which is needed to try to control our health issues. We would normally go to distributors of the various medications that are prescribed, and purchase two months supply at any one time. Alas, we no longer can do this because of the recent ruling by the respective Government agencies, and now have to purchase these medications from registered pharmacies. While Arizonans enjoy a varied climate and landscape, drivers in the state can face difficulties choosing the right tires for the state's diverse roads and conditions. From the torrid Phoenix and Tucson to the high-altitude Flagstaff forests, various regions require different tire types to meet local terrain and weather conditions. This article helps ease tire choice for Arizona's geography, roads, and climate. In particular, this article will focus on Tucson and Phoenix, as these are the most populous cities in Arizona. Best Tires for Arizona The Arizona weather mainly consists of two seasons: less hot and hot. The exception is the Flagstaff region, which experiences the entire 4 seasons cycle. Choosing the right tires should be done according to the specifics of the area in which you drive, which, in the case of Arizona, will include summer, all-season, and winter tires. On the flip side, dont forget that Arizona has various types of terrain. From urban areas like Tucson to rural White Mountains mixed roads, Arizonans should choose between highway and all-terrain tires. Best tires for Northern Arizona Residents of Northern Arizona, particularly Flagstaff, Grand Canyon, and the Colorado Plateau should consider all-season or winter tires for the colder months. These tire types are designed to withstand the cold winters and occasional snowfall. Two recommended tires for the regions are the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady (all-season) and the Michelin CrossClimate 2 (winter). The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is rated highly for all-season versatility and steady traction on both dry and wet surfaces. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is a dependable choice for heavy winters with snow and ice conditions where this tire can offer superior grip and control. Best tires for Central Arizona Drivers in Central Arizona, including Phoenix and Prescott, can choose summer or all-season tires. These areas are typically characterized by very high temperatures, requiring tires that can withstand heat build-up without compromising grip on dry pavement. Two suitable tire models for this purpose are the Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus or the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus for a more affordable alternative. Both products are highly rated for their grip in wet and dry conditions, cornering performance, and hydroplaning control. Best tires for Southern Arizona Summer or all-season tires are a good option for drivers in Southern Arizona, including Tucson and the U.S.-Mexico border. Similar to central Arizona, the southern area is hot in the summer and mild in the winter. A good option for drivers in Tucson who love spirited driving with a strong, sporty feel is the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. This summer tire delivers highly responsive handling, tenacious dynamics, and superior control at the limit. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4Ss shortcoming is its poor performance in colder conditions. This is where the Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack comes into play with its year-round versatility. The Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack focuses on tire longevity, performance maintenance as the tread wears, and comfort. This product is well-suited to Tucsons mild and relatively warm winters. In addition, the product tends to behave reliably in wet and dry conditions, being a reliable option for year-round purposes. Best tires for Western & Eastern Arizona For the Western & Eastern Arizona regions, drivers might want to pay more attention to the area's roads than the climate. For example, the western regions (Yuma, Lake Havasu City, Colorado River area) range from high heat to sandy terrain and off-road surfaces. As such, all-terrain tires are a good option for durability and grip on riverbed trails and deserts. In this context, the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W and the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 are two of the most popular all-terrain tires. Both models can offer solid traction in mixed terrain while remaining durable and resistant. Drivers in Eastern Arizona (the White Mountains or Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest regions) face mixed surfaces and occasional snowfall. Their selection should focus on all-terrain and winter tires for the cold season. The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is a popular all-season tire for all-terrain surfaces. It is compatible with SUVs, light trucks, and pick-ups, making it an excellent choice for work driving in various conditions. The Toyo Open Country A/T III is a reliable product with solid traction, durability, and price value. Plus, it is 3PMSF-certified, making it suitable for more severe Eastern Arizona winter conditions. Specific Considerations for Tucson Drivers Tucson drivers mostly encounter hot, pothole-prone streets. Therefore, they should focus more on tire durability and excellent highway performance when choosing the suitable set. The Michelin Defender T+H is an option for drivers frequently covering Tucson to Phoenix roads. This model combines highway performance with tread longevity (up to an 80,000-mile warranty). Tucson's outskirts off-roaders who frequently explore the nearby mountainous areas Rincon Mountains or Catalina should possibly choose a set of all-terrain tires. The Falken Wildpeak A/T3W is a good example, as it handles rugged surfaces dependably without compromising comfort and year-round grip. Where to Buy the Best Tires in Arizona Arizona drivers can buy tires at many online and physical stores. Jack Furrier Tire & Auto Care, Tire Pros of Tucson, Discount Tire, and Costco Tire Center are some local stores. Jack Furrier Tire & Auto Care stands out for its excellent customer service and road hazard warranty. Tire Pros of Tucson is popular for its variety of affordable off-road and performance products. Discount Tire has an extensive network across Arizona that offers benefits such as free tire inspections. The Costco Tire Center is also a popular network with benefits such as free balancing and member-exclusive discounts. Online Tire Providers for Arizona Drivers Drivers in Tucson, Phoenix, and other areas of Arizona can benefit from a quick and easy online tire purchase process that takes just a few clicks. Tire Rack, SimpleTire, and NeoTires are just a few to mention. Tire Rack stands out for its vast tire selection and wide network of trusted installers. SimpleTire is an excellent alternative for those seeking tax exemption for eligible entities and discounted tire prices. Lastly, NeoTires is a highly recommended ally for expert assistance, free shipping on most products, flexible payment options, and constant deals. How Long Do Tires Last in Arizona? Even though each type of tire has an estimated life expectancy, Arizona's various weather and road conditions can affect tire longevity. On average, summer tires often last between 20,000 and 30,000 miles. However, Tucson drivers might have to replace them within 25,000 miles due to intense summer heat and urban driving with frequent stops. All-season tires may last between 50,000 to 80,000 miles. Yet, Arizona drivers can have them for a little shorter due to desert dust and debris potentially affecting tire longevity. All-terrain and winter tires typically serve 30,000-50,000 miles and four to six seasons, respectively. While these are only estimates, Arizona drivers should know that the life and longevity of their tires depend on their driving habits and how they maintain them. Regular pressure adjustments, timely rotation, and judicious driving are easy steps to extend tire life in Tucson, Phoenix, and other regions of Arizona. Bottom Line Arizona has a wide variety of landscapes and road conditions, making it difficult to choose the right tires. The best practice is narrowing down tire options based on the region's specs, climate, weather, and driving habits. There is no such thing as a "bad" tire; in most cases, there is just the wrong tire for the wrong conditions. To match Tucson weather and road specifics, drivers in this area should prioritize heat resistance, durability, and dependable dry/wet traction. Drive safe and choose your tires wisely! Lee Enterprises newsroom and editorial were not involved in the creation of this content. Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus has tapped the former associate director of the Flagstaff Youth Chorale to replace its longtime director, Julian Ackerley. Jordan Rakita, who is finishing his doctoral degree in choral conducting from Arizona State University, will come on board next season to lead the program, which has five choirs that start with the Cadet Choir for boys in first through third grades and goes up to seniors in high school. Rakita, who led the Flagstaff Youth Chorale while he was earning his masters degree from Northern Arizona University, has a resume that includes conducting Canto, the Phoenix Childrens Chorus middle school ensemble. He also is director of the Phoenicians Chorus, the premier barbershop chorus in Phoenix, and ASUs tenor/bass ensemble Canticum Bassum. The chorus announced the change in leadership on Wednesday, nearly six months after Ackerley said he was retiring after 45 years. His last day is June 30. Gosh, 45 years went by like about 45 minutes, but its been quite an honor to have this organization as part of my familys life, Ackerley said. Ackerley led the group for more than half of its 85 years. Eduardo Caso started the choral training and performance organization in 1939. Ackerley, who was never part of the chorus growing up in Tucson, graduated from Palo Verde High School and went to the University of Arizona on a general music scholarship. He earned his bachelors and masters degrees in music education and voice performance before joining the Boys Chorus staff in 1978 as an associate conductor. He later earned his doctoral degree. He was named director two years later when John Davis left. When I came in, (Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus) had a national and international identity, and even though there are ups and downs in organizations like this, 1980 was a little bit of a downtime in regards to membership and awareness in the community, he recalled. Over the next four decades, Ackerley raised the groups stature internationally with tours to Korea, Japan, China, Eastern Europe, South Africa and several other countries; they are touring Greece in June. Locally, he collaborated with the UA, Tucson Symphony Orchestra and other area choirs, including the Tucson Girls Chorus. We always talk about how Julian is just always so willing to partner with us and with the community in general, said Marcela Molina, the longtime Tucson Girls Chorus director and director of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra Chorus. Molina served as a teaching assistant with the Boys Chorus while she was earning her doctoral degree at the UA. From the first moment, Julian was an incredible mentor to me. He is a kind leader and really committed to Boys Chorus, she recalled. What I have always admired about him is just his deep love and really genuine passion for teaching young kids and his commitment to engaging citizens through the Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus. A group from the Boys Chorus will join their Girls Chorus counterparts and Molinas TSO Chorus this weekend for two performances of Carl Orffs Carmina Burana. Ackerley will lead his final Tucson concert with the chorus on May 3 at Catalina Foothills High School before taking the ensemble to Greece. The concert is part of the ensembles 85th anniversary weekend, which will include Ackerley's retirement dinner on May 2 and an open house and reception on May 4. For details and tickets, visit boyschorus.org. The Salvation Army Hospitality House is living up to its name and inviting the community to join in as it celebrates its 10-year anniversary with a Decade of Hope from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 5 at 1002 N. Main Ave. For a decade, The Salvation Army Tucson has been a beacon of hope for individuals and families in need at the North Main Avenue and West Speedway location, aid Andres Espinoza, its city coordinator for Tucson. This celebration is not just about looking back on what weve accomplished, but also about embracing the future with renewed commitment to serve our community, as well as awareness for the community we serve. The carnival-themed event, which is free and open to the public, marks 10 years of healing, hopefulness and healthy new beginnings, according to Kelli Beasley, PR & Community Engagement Manager for The Salvation Army Tucson. The open house will feature a wide range of activities, including food, games, music and carnival-themed inflatables; tours of the Hospitality House; a meet-and-greet with Salvation Army officers; and 14 booths that showcase local Salvation Army programs and services. The interactive booths range from Donut Day, which features donut decorating and coffee and Pet Shelter to Warming Hearts & Souls and Chill Out. We will also have booths that showcase emergency assistance, family support such as TEP Utility Assistance, our Back to School program, a Bell Ringing booth representing our Kettle Bells and more, Beasley said. Our other corps will also have booths, with one from All Nations and two from the Amphi Corps. Each booth will have games or activities or both, plus gift basket give-aways that guests have a chance to win. It will be a great event and we are excited to show people more about our programs. Salvation Army programs assisted more than 24,000 people last year, serving more than 140,600 meals and providing more than 72,200 nights of shelter. A Tucson dog owner faces criminal charges after a 43-year-old man his animals attacked over the weekend died, authorities say. The attack happened about 6 a.m. Sunday in the 5000 block of West Camino Tierra, south of West Valencia Road, the Pima County Sheriff's Department said in a news release. Deputies found Kevin Renguul "lying in the roadway, suffering from severe injuries across his body," the release said. The critically injured man was taken to the hospital. He died Wednesday. Investigators say Renguul was attacked by five dogs that belong to Martin Martinez, 60, that had gotten out of his property. The dogs had a history of aggressiveness and had previously attacked a neighbor, the release said. Martinez was initially jailed on suspicion of felony endangerment and felony assault by a vicious animal. A charge of manslaughter was added after Renguul died, the release said. At least eight international students at Arizona State University have had their student visas revoked by the federal government since the last week of March, but the number of revocations is still rising, an ASU spokesperson told the Arizona Daily Star on Thursday. A Tucson attorney who is consulting with several ASU international students said hes aware of 12 who have had their visas revoked already, including one masters student who is now being held in an immigration detention center in Florence, Arizona. The University of Arizona, meanwhile, refused to say whether any UA students visas have been revoked. Spokesperson Mitch Zak said it is a university decision not to disclose this information. The ASU student visa revocations come amidst the Trump administrations push for mass deportations and as international students across the nation even some with legal permanent residency, known as green cards have been targeted by federal immigration authorities, in some cases due to pro-Palestinian political speech or protest activity. In a Thursday email, an ASU spokesman said he could not give an update on how many ASU student visas have been revoked, after confirming at least eight revocations, which were first reported by Arizona Luminaria. Due to the complexity of the visa process, including appeals and other procedures, exact numbers at any given moment are not available, the statement said. These revocations are unrelated to campus protests; they stem from what appear to be, in most cases, various legal infractions. ASU remains committed to fully supporting all affected international students in completing their degree programs. Not only were the ASU students visas revoked by the U.S. State Department, but their status as foreign students in a federal database was also swiftly terminated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, an unusual move that makes the students vulnerable to detention and deportation, said Tucson immigration attorney Matt Green, who is formally representing one of the ASU students and has consulted, or is planning consultations, with the others. Previously, according to State Department guidance, even if a students visa was revoked for a minor crime, such as underage drinking, they could maintain their status as foreign students and complete their studies, as long as that status remained valid in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System database, known as SEVIS, Green told the Star. The United States government has never, at least for 20 years, has never taken this approach toward international students and has never made these legal arguments that are underlying its approach and this new policy, Green said. For that reason it has never been tested in the courts. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last month that the State Department has revoked more than 300 visas nationwide, primarily student visas. In a Thursday email to the Star, the State Department declined to provide a more specific number, or say how many international students attending Arizona universities have had their student visas revoked, citing privacy considerations and visa confidentiality. The United States has zero tolerance for non-citizens who violate U.S. laws. Those who break the law, including students, may face visa refusal, visa revocation, and/or deportation, a State Department spokesperson said, calling the number of revocations dynamic. ASU students with revoked visas now face a tough decision, Green told the Star: either leave the U.S. voluntarily, or risk being detained while fighting for the right to finish their education. Most of them probably have very legitimate legal arguments, and they may prevail on those if they choose to fight their cases, he said. But, they may have to make the difficult decision, if they want to challenge this, to potentially be detained while this happens, for a very long period of time. Even if theyre not detained, they wouldnt be able to continue with their studies or work while pursuing a legal challenge, as theyd be in a state of legal limbo that does not allow them to proceed with their lives, he said. Were really just trying to analyze the legal basis for this (the revocations) and come up with potential legal arguments against it very quickly, while also trying to properly advise our clients, who are in a state of panic, Green said. We do not yet have precise answers for them. None of the ASU students visa revocations seemed to have been triggered by political speech or protest, Green said. All the students Green has consulted with are from the Middle East or India, he said. Green said the ASU students hes consulted with either had no criminal history or only minor records that were already known to the U.S. government and that wouldnt typically cause a visa to be revoked or trigger a deportation. For example, one student had a conviction for underage drinking, and another had a record for driving without a valid license in another state, he said. In Arizona, thats only a civil infraction, he said. Students who commit serious crimes are deportable, because those crimes trigger criminal grounds of removability, but Green said that none of the criminal history of any of these students rises to that level. ... Most of the other criminal history was old and known by the Department of State when these students went back and applied for new visas. One of the ASU students had a DUI conviction nearly 10 years ago, Green said. But the student had previously resolved the DUI, returned to his home country and re-applied for a student visa, which has been renewed multiple times since, he said. In notices the ASU students received from U.S. Consulates abroad, advising them of their visa revocations, the federal government claimed the revocations were prompted by the discovery of new information about the students, Green said. Thats disingenuous, Green said, as many of the students say their prior record was known to the U.S. State Department and hadnt prevented them from renewing or receiving their student visas before. Green said the U.S. Consulate notices encouraged the students to self deport, and provided the link to the phone application previously known as CBP One, but which the Trump administration has rebranded as CBP Home. The app now allows non-citizens to notify the government they are departing the U.S. Since taking office Jan. 20, President Donald Trump has signed numerous executive orders on immigration, including what he calls combating anti-Semitism by deporting non-citizen students who participated in pro-Palestinian protests, and enhanced vetting, through stricter evaluation of visa applicants and of visa holders already in the U.S. Inside Higher Ed has reported that since March, federal immigration officials have revoked student visas, raided dorm rooms, arrested green-card holders and threatened to deport international students who participated in campus protests. In recent weeks, immigration agents have visited universities, including Georgetown, Cornell, Tufts and Columbia, to arrest and potentially deport non-citizen international students who took part in the pro-Palestinian protests that broke out on campuses across the country last year during the height of the Israel-Gaza war. UA wont comment Zak, the UA spokesperson, refused Thursday, out of respect for our students and their privacy, to say whether any international students at the UA had their student visas revoked. Though the Stars query was only about the number of UA students affected, and not about specific students, Zak said the university didnt see a benefit to its students or its scholars in confirming one way or the other whether or not we have had student visas revoked. We feel like thats personal to them (and) this is a very high-visibility issue. Its creating a lot of consternation across the country, Zak told the Star. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA, schools are generally prohibited from disclosing personally identifiable information from a students education records without the students consent. That includes the students name, Social Security number and other indirect identifiers such as date of birth. The act would not prevent the university from saying whether any student visas have been revoked and providing a number on that. The UAs stance is different than those of ASU, the University of Colorado and Colorado State University, for instance, which have confirmed the number of student visas revoked. Student leaders and international students at the UA have also not heard from the administration internally on if there were any student visas revoked so far. When asked if international students would internally be given a number on visa revocations, Zak didn't say yes and would only say, University staff would handle that appropriately" without explaining how. Earlier this week, the UA sent out a notice to its international students, faculty and scholars, asking them to keep their passports; I-94s, which are issued to non-immigrant visitors entering the U.S.; and proof of statuses on them at all times. It also advised them to be aware that immigration officials can legally inspect their devices and social media. Governor concerned Responding to the Stars inquiry about the ASU visa revocations, Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs office said in a Thursday email that she is concerned about the uncertainty and chaos caused by the federal government, not just for the students affected, but also for their families, peers, and the broader academic community. These actions are creating an environment of fear and intimidation when our universities should be places of learning. Asked whether the UA should disclose if any student visas have been revoked, Hobbs spokesperson Liliana Soto said in a text message, We defer to the university on that. A spokesperson for the office of Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes also declined to weigh in on that question, citing the offices role as legal counsel for the Arizona Board of Regents, which governs Arizonas public university system. ASU has 15,000 international students from 157 countries, the university says. Nationwide, 1.1 million international students contributed $43.8 billion to the U.S. economy during the 2023-2024 academic year and supported more than 378,000 jobs, according to an analysis from NAFSA: Association of International Educators, a nonprofit organization dedicated to international education and exchange. DHS rapid termination of their foreign-student status is unprecedented, said Mo Goldman, a Tucson immigration attorney. As international students increasingly come under attack, universities whose budgets rely on those populations are in a tough spot, he said. These schools need them, because it helps them offset all the costs for in-state (tuition) and everything else, he said. Most of the ASU students with revoked visas with whom Green has consulted are pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and math, he said. These are among the brightest of the students in the United States, Green said. This was previously unthinkable, that the U.S. government would take this approach. The Arizona Court of Appeals has denied historic preservationists request to block Pima Community College from razing three motels. The court, on Thursday, upheld a previous ruling by Pima County Superior Court Judge Brenden J. Griffin, rejecting the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundations bid for a preliminary injunction blocking demolition. The PCC Governing Board unanimously voted in November against restoring the motels for a cost of $35.7 million, and to instead demolish them at an estimated cost of $500,000 while trying to preserve the motels neon signs. The 1940s-50s era motels the Tucson Inn, Frontier Motel and Copper Cactus are on Drachman Street north of downtown Tucson and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. They were purchased by the college in 2018 and 2019, while historic preservationist Demion Clinco was on the PCC board, at costs of more than $1 million for the Tucson Inn and about $1.3 million for the Frontier Motel and Copper Cactus. Griffins December decision was based on his finding that PCC is a political subdivision, not a state agency subject to state laws on preserving historic properties. The Court of Appeals agreed with his finding, saying the plain language of the historic preservation statutes in question ... establishes that our legislature did not bind political subdivisions when establishing the responsibilities of agencies ... for historic preservation. The ruling said the preservationists who sued cannot establish either a strong likelihood of success on the merits in an appeal or that irreparable harm will result if a stay is not granted. The college issued a statement Friday: Pima Community College is pleased with the Court of Appeals decision that the College Governing Board has the authority and responsibility to make decisions about the properties that it determines are in the best interests of the College. This outcome allows the College to move forward with addressing long-standing safety and security concerns at the site and continue to focus our efforts on serving students and the broader community. Throughout this process, the College has remained transparent and diligent evaluating preservation and redevelopment options, issuing a public Request for Proposals, and engaging with community stakeholders to identify financially viable alternatives that aligned with our mission. Despite these good-faith efforts, no sustainable path emerged to preserve and restore these properties. Clinco, CEO of the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation, has said he hoped for a solution that saves the buildings or designates/rezones them a local city historic landmark and sells them to the public or private sector for redevelopment. These properties are quintessentially Tucson, Clinco has said. Their neon signs, particularly the Tucson Inns, have been featured on the cover of the travel section of the New York Times. Clinco did not immediately comment on the new ruling. Before many people were talking about protesting Tesla, Phineas Anderson, 83, and his 77-year-old wife, Mitchell, were out there. On Feb. 7, they protested at the Tucson Tesla dealership, 5081 N. Oracle Road, joined by around 50 other people. They werent aware of the Tesla Takedown idea of targeting Tesla in order to hurt Elon Musk financially for his role in the Trump administration. They just knew they didnt like what President Trump and Musk were doing. I woke up in the middle of the night and said, Weve got to do something, said Phineas Anderson, who was headmaster of the Greenfields Country Day School from 1980-92. The most obvious place to do it was in front of the Tesla dealership. Since then, the protests here have been the biggest at Tesla dealerships anywhere in the country, hitting about 1,900 in the last effort on Saturday, according to organizers counts. They plan to protest again Saturday, April 12. In the meantime, similar protests have spread around the country under the Tesla Takedown slogan. Some vandals have also graffitied, scratched and set fire to Tesla vehicles in moves that the Trump administration has deemed terrorism and that protest organizers disown. And Musk himself has claimed without evidence that the movement against his car company is a top-down effort by shadowy groups using paid protesters. In Tucson, the crowds at Tesla have been mostly older Tucsonans and snowbirds who are angry at Musk for his unchecked rampage through the federal government and who think Trump is taking dictatorial control of the country. Its not so surprising that there are 2,000 or so people willing to show up on a beautiful Saturday morning in a county that Kamala Harris won by 15 percentage points. What drove the Andersons, Phineas said, was the pardons of Jan. 6 felons, the blaming of Ukraine for being invaded by Russia and the cruelty of Musk as he fired people willy-nilly in the federal government. Lately, though, hes been networking with other protest groups, talking to Arizonas attorney general, Kris Mayes, and even traveling to Washington D.C. Mayes reiterated something Anderson had already heard: Courts and crowds will make a difference. She added another C (word), which is courage. Im praying that somehow a dam will be broken at some point, Anderson said. Its going to require a protest to make that happen. Anderson has been careful to distance the protest movement he started here from property damage, always warning in his announcements of protests against property damage or crossing onto Teslas property. Anybody who destroys any of their properly should be arrested and jailed, he said. At Saturdays protest, a man came from St. David to watch Teslas property. Anderson said they met and talked early in the morning, found common ground, and had no issues. In fact, that man, Jeff Grant, said later on Facebook, The protesters at Tucson Tesla on Saturday were NOT PAID! Influencer enters CD7 race A self-described influencer from Tucson is shaking up the race for the Democratic nomination in Congressional District 7. Deja Foxx, 24, already was an activist when she attended University High School, before heading off to Columbia University for college. She advocated for a sex-education curriculum in the Tucson Unified School District and famously confronted then-Sen. Jeff Flake at a 2017 town hall in Mesa, when she was just 17. I didnt pick politics; politics picked me, Foxx said at the start of her introductory video, posted on Instagram this week. Raised by a single mom, SNAP benefits, Section 8 housing, and Medicaid helped us make ends meet. I know what it feels like to have elected officials make decisions about the things you need to just get by. Foxx is a progressive Democrat who led influencer strategy in Kamala Harris first campaign for president. Shes one of 14 candidates who have filed statements of interest to run for the nomination in the race to replace Rep. Raul Grijalva, who died March 13. Foxx is different in being a young candidate with a strong online profile. Eight years ago, in April 2017, Foxx told the Arizona Daily Star in an interview, Im hoping to go to Columbia for political science and from there ... community organizing is where my passion is, but I want to take that one step further and be an elected official. Challengers in Ward 3 Speaking of young challengers, it looks like Kevin Dahl will have competition after all in the race for the Ward 3 Tucson City Council seat. Sadie Shaw, a member of the Tucson Unified School District board, has filed to run against Dahl in the Democratic primary election. In addition, Janet Wittenbraker, a Republican who ran in the recent races for Tucson mayor and District 3 Pima County supervisor, plans to run in the general election. Shaw noted in a Facebook post her frustration with Democrats losing the most critical election in the last 100 years because we refused to engage on issues that matter most to young people and others who demand action on human rights violations, both foreign and domestic. She added, Its time for the elders to step aside and let young people lead not just in elected positions but at every level. Too often, young voices are dismissed, and forward-thinking candidates are told their ideas are too radical. The candidates must submit signatures by the end of business on Monday, April 7. Supervisor candidate forum The League of Women Voters will host a virtual candidate forum Wednesday for those seeking to replace Adelita Grijalva in the District 5 seat on the Pima County Board of Supervisors. The deadline to file the materials to become candidates for the job is the end of the business day Monday. At 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, the virtual forum will take place. Heres how to access the meeting: Go to this link: http://tucne.ws/1s46 Webinar number: 2502 852 5361 Webinar password: FxUcDTUU244 (39823888 when dialing from a phone or video system) The board is scheduled to appoint a replacement for Grijalva at its April 15 meeting. Whoever is appointed will serve until Dec. 31, 2026. Primary and general elections for the seat will be held in 2026 and the winner will serve the remainder of the term until Dec. 31, 2028. PHOENIX Calling the presidents actions illegal, Arizona and other states filed suit Thursday to block an executive order designed to impose new federal regulations on how the states conduct elections. The executive order that we have sued to stop is an unacceptable and unconstitutional intrusion on the rights of states and the power of Congress by an out-of-control executive branch hell-bent on destroying 250 years of precedent, said Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes. She and Democratic officials from 18 other states are asking a federal judge in Massachusetts, where they chose to file the lawsuit, to declare specific provisions of the order to be unlawful and unenforceable. Some of whats in the order does not affect Arizona. For example, the state already requires documented proof of citizenship to vote in state and local elections. But Mayes, in the lawsuit, points out that if President Donald Trumps order is allowed to take effect, those who want to vote only in presidential and congressional elections now also would be required to provide such proof. That is contrary to federal law, she said. The list of documents Trump says is acceptable does not include items that even the Republican-controlled Arizona Legislature has said are sufficient. Gone, for example, would be the ability to use a legible copy of a birth certificate. Trumps order would allow passports to be used as proof, but not legible photocopies, which are acceptable in Arizona. Also no longer valid for federal registration would be naturalization documents or someones Bureau of Indian Affairs card number, tribal treaty card number, or tribal enrollment number. Strictly speaking, that would affect only the nearly 49,000 Arizonans who registered using a form designed by the federal Elections Assistance Commission. That compares with more than 4.4 million who are registered to vote in Arizona. Mayes said that still is unacceptable. Its onerous, especially in regard to our tribes, she said. Even small numbers are important in federal races. In 2020, for example, Joe Biden won the states 11 electoral votes by defeating Trump by 10,457 votes. And if the order takes effect, it would affect most immediately a special primary this summer to fill the vacancy created by the death last month of Tucson Democratic Congressman Raul Grijalva. Secretary of State Adrian Fontes has his own concerns about Trumps action. This administrations executive order is asking us elections officials to turn your personal identifying information in these voter records over to the federal government, over to DOGE, he said. And I can tell you right now, I dont want Elon Musk and his crew of incompetents taking those voter rolls away from our office. Trumps order also spells out that ballots must be received no later than on Election Day. On one hand, that doesnt matter as that already is the law in Arizona. Some other states use a postmark as a deadline. Mayes said though that, as worded, it could override a state law that gives voters up to five days after an election to cure a ballot. That most often occurs when the signature on a ballot envelope does not match county records. The curing can occur simply by voters contacting the election office, including by phone, to verify they are, in fact, the ones who sent in the ballot. A strict election night deadline, said Mayes, could disenfranchise thousands of Arizonans who vote by mail. And the attorney general said theres also the fact that the president, in his March 25 executive order, threatened to withhold federal dollars from states that do not comply, and also to potentially refer state and local election officials to the Justice Department for prosecution. All that, said Mayes who has so far sued the Trump administration nine times since he took office is another example of presidential overreach. It is another glaring example of an administration that simply does not believe it has to follow the law, she said. I feel like a broken record at this point, Mayes continued. But in the United States of America, we do not have kings, we do not have dictators. We have a Constitution and the rule of law. At the heart of the complaint is the contention by Mayes and others that the presidents order ignored federal law. In its broadest form, the contention is that the Constitution leaves running elections up to each state. It does allow Congress to make certain rules. Congress in 1993 approved the National Voter Registration Act. Among its provisions was requiring the federal Elections Assistance Commission to come up with a single form that people could use to register to vote in addition to state-created forms. Notably, Congress determined that those using the form need not provide documentary proof of citizenship. Instead, applicants need only avow, under the penalty of perjury, that they are citizens and otherwise eligible to vote. None of that affects those registering to vote in state and local elections in Arizona, because such proof is already required under a 2004 voter-approved law. But pursuant to the federal law, Arizona has allowed those using that federal form who dont have the required proof to cast ballots in presidential and congressional races. And federal courts, citing that federal law, have repeatedly voided subsequent efforts by the Republican-controlled Legislature to deny them that right. The most recent figures show there are 48,843 Arizonans on the federal only registration list. Trump is ordering the Elections Assistance Commission to amend its registration form to now require proof of citizenship. Mayes and her counterparts say the president cant do that. Congress required the Commission to operate independently, the lawsuit states. It says the commission is required to make its decisions under standards of bipartisanship, and in collaboration with states that administer federal elections. The Elections Executive Order seeks to eradicate all those safeguards aiming to force the commission to rubberstamp the presidents policy preferences on, among other things, voter registration and voting systems, the challengers are telling the judge. The president cannot add a documentary proof of citizenship requirement to the federal form, because even the commission could not impose that requirement, at least not without a commission vote, Mayes and the other attorneys say. In fact, they note, Kansas and Arizona in 2014 when Jan Brewer was governor and Ken Bennett was secretary of state, both Republicans asked the commission to add requirements to the form for applicants to provide citizenship proof. The commission rejected that request, saying, among other reasons, that it would make organized voter registration programs less available. That decision was later upheld by a federal appellate court. This isnt the first challenge to the presidents order. The Campaign Legal Center and the State Democracy Defenders Fund filed their own challenge on Monday on behalf of voter advocacy groups, including the League of United Latin American Citizens and the Arizona Students Association. Ginnie Graham Tulsa World Columnist Follow Ginnie Graham 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. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Oklahomas mental health and addiction infrastructure appears to be on the brink of a breakdown, with looming federal funding freezes, a state shortfall of up to $43 million, revenue withholdings from certain providers and a state agency meeting that had a commissioner in tears. Its an ever-evolving situation that has Oklahomans anxious about losing their care and treatment. From the federal level, Oklahoma receives about $700 million in grants to provide mental health and addiction services. That money is at risk as the Trump administration shuffles government, fires thousands of workers and threatens to withhold the funds. Many of those grants go to rural areas, tribal communities and childrens needs. At the state level, the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services in early March announced a shortfall of up to $63 million but has since amended that number to $43 million. It is terminating contracts, including sole-source agreements and value-based payments. Providers are announcing the elimination of programs and the scaling back of services, particularly in rural areas. Services paid for by the state include mobile health crisis units, detox centers, counseling programs for alternative courts and outpatient addiction therapy. These cuts will end up costing more money as Oklahomans get sicker and require more intensive treatment, according to a Healthy Minds Policy Initiative report released Tuesday. Responding to mental health needs through emergency rooms and inpatient treatment is costing Oklahomans about $817 million a year. But $417 million could be saved with more mobile crisis units, alternative courts and short-term beds. Zack Stoycoff, executive director of Healthy Minds, said the federal cuts have not occurred yet and that Fourth District Congressman Tom Cole, chair of the House Appropriations Committee, is supportive of keeping funds in place. As for the state, he said, legislators are looking for solutions, and constituent feedback has been effective. Gov. Kevin Stitt has complete control of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and called for a comprehensive audit, a recommendation made by Mental Health Commissioner Allie Friesen, who was appointed by Stitt 15 months ago to run the department. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert and Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton asked the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency to investigate the funding shortfall. Thats all good but could take months or years to sort out. Whats happening now could devastate vulnerable Oklahomans. The departments cuts to the local Family & Childrens Services funding that had been in place for nearly 25 years would affect the COPES mobile crisis intervention teams and the CrisisCare Center at 1055 S. Houston Ave. On Monday, Tulsa leaders from the mayor to nonprofit directors met with Friesen and left optimistic, as reported by my colleague Kevin Canfield. The meeting was described as cordial, with state lawmakers pledging to find ways to recoup the funds. On Tuesday, a meeting was held in Oklahoma City with 26 providers participating in a value-based payment program a model giving funds to providers meeting specific positive patient outcomes. Those payments are reinvested in the services. Friesen referred to it as an incentive program. But its more of a quality approach created when the fee-for-service model failed to keep up with costs. While most terminated contracts were given 30 days notice, the value-based contracts are being backdated starting on Oct. 1, 2024. That means the state plans not to pay for six months of agreed-upon funding. The agencies split $2 million a quarter for nine months (Oct. 1 to June 30, 2025), totaling $6 million that would be saved by the state. Several recordings of the meeting were made available to me from people in attendance. Friesen said the agencys funding shortfall was discovered after a person in the Finance Department brought forward a concern. After two weeks of reconciling the budget, it went from a $63 million shortfall to a $43 million deficit. Historically, it seems as if we have not requested the appropriate amount of funding for our department, she said. Oklahoma has record savings accounts of about $5 billion. Lawmakers could appropriate the $43 million to keep services open while these investigations are ongoing, but they are in a tough spot. Legislators see how critical these services are in their communities. But they also have to be good stewards of tax dollars and need to know why this happened. Friesen told the providers she is not requesting supplemental funds because she has to navigate through the politics of everything. She asked providers for support in the departments next fiscal year request, which she said will be significantly larger: Weve never asked for what we actually need. She repeated that the cuts are painful and unfair but necessary. She broke into tears when saying she never wanted politics to get in the way of patient care. Its a super fun dance to try to manage the Legislature and executive branch. They hate each other. I cant win, she said. I asked advice from the Legislature, and they said, Id hate to be you. On Wednesday during an appearance in Sand Springs, Stitt told the Tulsa Worlds Randy Krehbiel that the Department of Mental Health doesnt need more money. He said the CEOs of the nonprofit mental health providers need to stop getting rich off taxpayers, with some earning $1 million to $2 million annually. I have members of my family who struggle with mental health. If I thought more money would help, dont you think Id do that? Stitt asked. They dont need a supplemental. If they needed a supplemental, Id be for it 100%. We spend $1 billion a year on mental health. Its time we held some people accountable. The nonprofits are upset because some contracts were canceled. Those were for reimbursement payments for bonuses. Later that day, the Department of Mental Health announced that it was halting all state funds to Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, citing concerns of overcompensation to administrators. CCBHC facilities are comprehensive health care facilities that provide 24-hour services coordinating physical, behavioral and social service needs to anyone despite ability to pay. Those have a combination of revenue sources that include Medicaid and federal grants which are now poised to be frozen. Those are different from the smaller providers who attended Tuesdays value-based payment meeting. Janet Cizek, CEO of Community Treatment Integrations, which provides about 150,000 health care services to people from 19 counties, said the value-based funding is nearly 50% of its budget. Among its services are treatment to defendants in specialized courts, parents in the child welfare system and formerly homeless Oklahomans. It serves between 25% and 27% of all Department of Mental Health-contracted outpatient care. It receives about $4 million from the state, which covers mostly indigent and low-income clients not covered by Medicaid or SoonerCare. We have been given no clarity, Cizek said. We have no direction and no concrete information. Weve received no communication; our emails and calls go unanswered. Weve had no conversations with anyone since a contract manager sent the letter. We have no real leadership from the Department of Mental Health. Tuesdays meeting left the providers unsettled and planning for slashes to programs. Its going to be devastating, Cizek said. We talk about outpatient services being a door to access. In the state of Oklahoma, they are shutting the door, locking it and bolting it closed. People are not going to get the services they need not next week, not next month. Its going to get worse. We have no plan. Nothing. Ex-S. Korean president Yoon apologizes for not meeting expectations Xinhua) 14:27, April 04, 2025 SEOUL, April 4 (Xinhua) -- Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, who was ousted from office on Friday by a constitutional court ruling, apologized for not meeting public expectations. Yoon said in a message through his legal representatives that it was very regrettable and sorry not to meet people's expectations, expressing his deep gratitude to people for supporting and rooting for him, according to local media. The ousted leader noted that it was his great honor to work for the country, adding that he will always pray for the country and people. Earlier Friday, the constitutional court unanimously upheld a motion by the National Assembly to impeach Yoon over his short-lived martial law imposition last December. The ruling came into force immediately, and a snap presidential election was required to be held within 60 days. Yoon declared an emergency martial law on the night of Dec. 3 last year, but it was revoked by the opposition-led National Assembly hours later. The impeachment motion against Yoon was passed in the parliament on Dec. 14, and he was indicted on Jan. 26 as a suspected ringleader of insurrection. (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Wu Chaolan) SKY News Business Editor Ross Greenwood will moderate a Live debate between Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor next Wednesday. The Treasurers Debate will follow from the SKY News/The Daily Telegraph Peoples Forum, next Tuesday. Ross Greenwood said: The Federal Election is a contest about who can best manage Australias $2.3 trillion economy. From the cost-of-living and energy prices, from migration to home affordability, from personal taxes to employment, the Treasurers of our major political parties must not only have the right strategies, but they must also be able to effectively communicate those policies to households and business. This debate is your best chance to assess those policies and the skills of Jim Chalmers and Angus Taylor. Wednesday 9 April at 7:30pm AEST on SKY News. TV presenter and producer Paul Burt has apologised after comments made in an episode of outdoor show Step Outside with Paul Burt screened on 7mate in March. During a cooking segment a guest said, Beat the egg like you beat the missus thats what I do. Tie her to a tree and beat her with fencing wire. Burt tells TV Tonight he was appalled the comments had slipped through production after a contracted editor suddenly departed. In a statement he said, Please accept my most sincere apology for the offense that was caused by the shocking comments made by a guest in the episode. They were uncalled for, appalling and contrary to everything I believe in. By way of explanation and by no means an excuse, my show editor who would ordinarily have deleted the comments in editing, left without notice mid production. Whilst searching for a replacement I have endeavoured to manage this aspect of the production and I had thought the offensive comments had been removed. I was clearly wrong in this assumption and as mentioned above I am absolutely appalled and upset that the show aired as it did. Upon the show airing I contacted Channel 7 to bring the matter to their attention and ensure the episode was removed from their line up so that no-one else could be exposed to the episode. Please accept my sincere apology and know that I intend to set structures in place to ensure that this occurrence or anything similar will never occur again. Seven Group Managing Director, Seven Television, Angus Ross told Guardian, Seven was appalled and shocked by the comments made by a guest in Step Outside with Paul Burt. They were abhorrent and totally unacceptable. The show has been removed from 7Mate and 7Plus with immediate effect. Seven unreservedly apologises to viewers. In 2022 Burt was widely praised for abandoning a Live cross to rescue a 10 year old child from dangerous surf conditions on Surfers Paradise. 7NEWS presenter @PaulBurt07 has been caught up in a dramatic rescue at a Gold Coast beach while he was live on air. pic.twitter.com/ZqrRojhdVb Sunrise (@sunriseon7) May 5, 2022 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 Veteran actor Paul Karo, best known for The Box and Prisoner, has died, aged 89. He died yesterday, two months shy of his 90th birthday. Karo was born in Scotland and worked in New Zealand as a cadet reporter where he joined a local theatre, before settling in Australia in the late 1950s. Early stage and film work followed and guest TV roles in Beauty and the Beast, Outpost, Consider Your Verdict, Adventures of the Seaspray, And the Big Men Fly, The Magic Boomerang, Division 4, Matlock Police, Plain Jane, and Homicide. He featured as gay television director Lee Whiteman on The Box for nearly 200 episodes. The Crawfords drama became a huge hit after the success of Number 96, similarly thriving on soapie storylines, full frontal nudity and risque storylines. Filmed at ATV-0 studios in Nunawading, its storylines around the fictional Channel 12 and variety show Big Night Out. Lee Whiteman variously fell for Wayne (Bruce Kilpatrick) and John (Donald MacDonald), but while the character was camp (video is here), he was praised for being three dimensional. It would land him magazine covers on TV Week and TV Times, and in 1976, Karo would win a Logie in 1976 for Best Australian Actor -the first for an openly gay TV role. Despite this Karo once told told TV Week, Everyone thinks of me as playing the role of a queer. They havent had the opportunity to see me do anything else. He would go on to further guest roles in The Sullivans, Skyways, Holiday Island, Cop Shop, Special Squad, Carsons Law, Golden Pennies, A Thousand Skies, ANZACs, My Brother Tom, Sword of Honour, Nancy Wake, Phoenix, Janus, Blue Heelers, Good Guys Bad Guys and the original SeaChange. On Prisoner he had an ongoing role as Det. Insp. Rouse. Film credits include The Box (Feature film), Death of a Soldier, Evil Angels, Paperback Romance, Lucky Break, while his stage performances, which stemmed back to the 1950s, included a Best Actor of 1966 (the Erik) from Melbourne theatre critics for his role in A Lily for Little India. In 1991 he won Narrator of the Year for The Rise and Fall of Alan Bond. Karo was particularly proud of his stage career. Publicist Geoffrey Williams once recalled plans for an appearance on Good Morning Australia with Bert Newton when a segment producer suggested running clips of The Box. I immediately had to shut that concept down. Er, no, actually. Mr Karo had had an extraordinary career in the Theatre. He had toured with the grand English dames of the Theatre, and he had, stored away in a box, magnificent archival photographs of his life in the Theatre. Whilst Karo was nervous meeting Bert, Newton had put him at ease. Bert is a genius, Geoffrey, he smiled. During the ad break, he asked me questions and we talked about the play and the challenges of the role, and how it felt to be back on stage. And then as soon as we were back live, he repeated the same questions and conversation it was as though we had already had our conversation and my nerves had vanished. I wasnt even really aware that we were live on television. On a personal note, Paul was a lovely bloke, who directed me in a play many moons ago. Vale. Celebration of the life of Paul Karo Monday, 16 June 2025 St Martins Theatre Gallery St Martins Lane South Yarra 3141 2pm 5pm Doors open 2pm for a 2:15pm start For catering purposes please RSVP no later than June 10 [email protected] Source: IMDb, Wikipedia, Stage Whispers Photos: Victorian Colletions, Luke Creighton. TCN News Desk New Delhi: The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has sought an urgent appointment with President Droupadi Murmu to voice concerns over the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The board hopes to discuss the bills potential ramifications before it receives presidential assent. Support TwoCircles AIMPLB spokesperson S.Q.R. Ilyas, in a statement released on April 4, detailed the contents of the formal letter addressed to the President by the boards General Secretary Maulana Fazlur Rahim Mujaddadi. The letter outlines the boards apprehensions about how the proposed amendments might alter the administration and autonomy of Waqf institutions, which have historically played a vital role in the religious and charitable affairs of the Muslim community. The amendment introduced by the Act includes significant changes that impact the administration and autonomy of the Waqf institutions, which have historically played a crucial role in the religious and charitable activities of the Muslim community, Ilyas stated. He emphasised the boards concerns about the bills wider implications. AIMPLB has warned that the bills provisions could have serious negative consequences for Muslims across India. The letter strongly criticises the proposed legislation and calls it thoroughly unconstitutional and an attack on the Muslims of the country. Boards General Secretary Mujaddadi asserted that the amendments contradict fundamental rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution, particularly those concerning religious freedom, equality and the safeguarding of religious institutions. We believe that the provisions of the Act require serious reconsideration as they are inconsistent with the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India, he said. Given the gravity of the issue, the board has urged the President to grant an early meeting to discuss their concerns and explore possible resolutions that align with constitutional principles. The letter concluded with a direct appeal, Given the gravity of the matter, we humbly request your Excellency to kindly grant us an early appointment convenient to your Excellency so that we may present our concerns and discuss possible resolutions within the Constitutional framework. With tensions rising over the bills implications, the AIMPLBs request for a presidential meeting underscores the broader debate on religious rights, governance of Waqf properties and constitutional protections for minority institutions. From Staff Reports The University of Texas at Tyler (UT Tyler) and Tyler Junior College (TJC) both earned the Military Friendly Silver designation for the 2025-2026 academic year, recognizing their efforts to support military-affiliated students. UT Tyler received the Silver Military Friendly School designation in the Tier 2 Research Institutions category, placing it in the top 20% of participating schools nationwide. This is the universitys second consecutive Military Friendly designation. This designation is a testament to our ongoing commitment to ensure the academic, professional, and personal success of our military-affiliated student population, said Coby Dillard, UT Tylers director of military and veterans affairs. The UT Tyler Military and Veterans Success Center supports nearly 700 military-affiliated students, providing individualized support and advocacy. A celebration ceremony will be announced soon. The Military Friendly Schools list is determined by research that includes public data from more than 8,800 schools, input from student veterans, and responses from participating institutions. The full list will be published in G.I. Jobs magazine and available at militaryfriendly.com. Meanwhile, Tyler Junior College earned the Silver Military Friendly designation in the large community college category. With more than 1,800 schools participating in the 2025-2026 survey, TJC was one of 830 institutions to earn special recognition for going above and beyond the standard. Its a privilege to connect with our military students and their families, to help them build the future they deserve, said Keren Longshore, interim executive director of TJCs academic advising, veterans/military, and testing services. TJC serves approximately 450 military veterans and their dependents, with many students benefiting from the expertise and guidance of faculty and staff who are veterans themselves. The Military Friendly Schools list will be featured in G.I. Jobs magazine in May and October and can be found online at militaryfriendly.com. MOUNT PLEASANT Mount Pleasant leaders soon could adopt new animal-related ordinances aimed at decreasing the citys stray animal population. City Council members and city residents discussed the proposed ordinances during a workshop Monday, and most participants voiced support for the changes. Police Chief Mark Buhman presented the ordinances to the council in February, but members didnt adopt them then, citing a lack of feedback from community members. Like other places throughout East Texas and the South, Mount Pleasant residents have raised concerns about the areas population of stray and loose animals. The Mount Pleasant Animal Care and Adoption Center took in 2,300 animals in 2024, and about 1,000 were euthanized roughly 43%, Buhman said. The city of Longview implemented new animal-related ordinances in February, including one that requires the spaying and neutering of pets unless the pet qualifies for an exemption or its owner obtains a permit allowing the pet to stay intact. Mount Pleasants proposed ordinances would range from requiring pets to have microchips to prohibiting people from feeding stray animals. Heres what each ordinance would do: Microchip requirement for all pets The first proposed ordinance would require owners to have a microchip implanted in their pets (ages four months and older) if the animal is kept within the city limits. Microchips are tiny, inexpensive devices implanted beneath a pets skin that contain a unique identification number. When a pet is lost and picked up by animal control, officers can scan the device, which will show the identification number. Ultimately, that number can be used to track down a pets owner. Microchips do not transmit GPS information and cant be used to locate an animal. By requiring pets to have a microchip, animal control officers might be able to reduce the number of animals they have to take to the animal shelter, Buhman said, as the animals could be found and returned to their owners without a trip to the shelter. The chips also could be used to hold accountable people who choose to dump their animals, he said. Under the proposed ordinance, pet owners would have 30 days after they take ownership of a pet or move into the city limits to have microchips implanted in their animals. If a licensed veterinarian certifies in writing that an animal cannot undergo a microchip procedure for medical reasons, the pet would be exempt from the requirement, though residents would have to provide that information to the citys animal services manager. Local veterinarians install microchips regularly, and the Mount Pleasant Animal Care and Adoption Center offered microchips for free in February. Ban on selling animals in public places The second proposed ordinance would ban people from selling or giving away animals in a public place and would bar property owners from letting the transactions take place. The ordinance is meant to prohibit people from selling litters of dogs in store parking lots, Buhman said, as pets sold in such a way dont have to be vaccinated, registered or spayed or neutered. It shall be unlawful for any person to advertise, display for purposes of sale or ownership change, transfer ownership, offer to transfer ownership, lease, sell, rent, or give away any animal, regardless of age, on any roadside, public right of way, commercial parking lot, garage sale, flea market, festival, park, community center or outdoor public place within the city limits of Mount Pleasant, the proposed ordinance reads. The ordinance does not apply to city-owned animal facilities, licensed pet stores, non-profit animal rescue organizations or livestock sales. Ban on feeding strays The third proposed ordinance bans people from feeding stray animals or leaving food outside with the intent to feed them. We understand that some people have some stray cats and dogs that they like to feed, but it has a tendency to attract other animals, like raccoons, possums and other four-legged creatures that sometimes carry rabies and other diseases, Buhman said. The ordinance would not affect people who are trying to trap a wild animal as long as they are doing so in a legally authorized and permitted manner, the ordinance reads. Spay/neuter impounded, adopted animals While not a new ordinance, a city ordinance could be amended to require pets impounded by animal control officers to be spayed or neutered. The change is expected to help prevent future breeding by stray animals, Buhman said. Within 30 days after adopting or retrieving an animal from the shelter, owners would have to provide animal control officials proof that the animal has been spayed or neutered or that the animal was spayed or neutered prior to impoundment. The proof must be a completed sterilization form signed by an animal services employee and the veterinarian who performed the operation. The ordinance would not apply to animals that are registered with a national registry; are certified members of a breed club, hunting club or sporting club; are professionally trained assistance or police service animals; and animals that were stray or at large due to forces of nature, fire, or the criminal act of a third party who was not residing at the animal owners residence and there is documented proof from a city or county official stating the fact, the ordinance reads. Violation of the ordinances could be a Class C misdemeanor, which is punishable by a fine. Council members could vote to adopt the ordinances in the near future. Residents respond Several people spoke in favor of the ordinances during Tuesdays meeting. Kim Hanes, who is raising funds to host a spay/neuter clinic for animals, said other cities and counties in Texas have ordinances similar to those Mount Pleasant officials are considering adopting. Hanes supports the ordinances, saying the city must do more to protect animals and control the stray population. She called the ordinances a starting point. We are supposed to be good stewards of what God gives us, and He gave us these animals, and were supposed to take care of them, Hanes said. Right now, we are failing them miserably in the county and in the city. Elaine Tipping with the Northeast Texas Rescue Organization said the city should implement a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance. She agreed with the proposed microchip requirement. The city animal shelter and the rescue organization are often full of animals, she said. While the city animal shelter does not close its intake, the rescue sometimes has to turn people away because it cannot handle more animals. Weve got to stop the bleeding, Tipping said. Its like putting a Band-Aid on an arterial bleed. Krystal Ann Tronboll, who operates a nonprofit rescue for ex-military and police dogs near Mount Pleasant named the Ddamien Project, voiced support for the ordinances as well. She said people should quit supporting backyard breeding operations that produce dogs that arent registered, vaccinated or given proper healthcare. Those are the types of people who sell dogs in front of local stores the outfits the second proposed ordinance targets. Jimmy Vaughn said he hasnt seen a problem with loose dogs in Mount Pleasant and that most residents take good care of their animals. This is silly, he said. Mount Pleasant, Texas, does not have a problem in the city limits. We have more of a feral cat problem in the city of Mount Pleasant than we do dog problems. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home PM Modi meets Bangladeshs Yunus in Bangkok Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh Interim Government, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand Capital Bangkok Friday April 04, 2025 Saturday April 5, 2025 0:56 AM , ummid.com News Network Bangkok: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh Interim Government, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand Capital Bangkok Friday April 04, 2025. "India remains committed to a constructive and people-centric relationship with Bangladesh", PM Modi wrote on X while sharing the images showing the two leaders in the meeting. "I reiterated Indias support for peace, stability, inclusivity and democracy in Bangladesh", he added. Somewhat similar statement was later released also by the Indian Foriegn Ministry. Modi and Yunus met amid strained relationship between India and Bangladesh. Over 70 years of strong ties between the two neighbors turned sour in August 2024 when Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister and fled the country following students' protest. The half-hour-long meeting reportedly covered various issues of mutual interest, including the extradition of Sheikh Hasina , according to the Yunus' Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, who briefed journalists afterwards. According to Dhaka Tribune, Yunus presented a photograph to Prime Minister Modi during their bilateral meeting. The photo is about Prime Minister Narendra Modi presenting a gold medal to Yunus at the 102nd Indian Science Congress that took place in Mumbai on January 3, 2015. BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) is a 7-country organisation comprising of India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh on Friday assumed the chairmanship of the regional bloc Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec) for the next two years. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. HCM CITY Viet Nam and Laos have immense potential for cooperation across multiple sectors, particularly in education and training, information technology, trade promotion, investment, culture, and tourism, delegates emphasised at the Lao-Viet Nam Trade and Investment Promotion Conference held in Savannakhet Province, Laos, on Wednesday. Organised as part of the fifth Exhibition of HCM City and Friendship Provinces and Cities in Savannakhet, the conference sisa key activity in the cooperation between HCM City and Savannakhet Province,. It providesbusinesses from both countries with opportunities to connect, exchange information, and explore investment prospects. Speaking at the conference, ao Minh Chanh, deputy director of the Investment and Trade Promotion Centre of HCM City (ITPC), reaffirmed HCM City's commitment to fostering business ties with Laos. He proposed several initiatives to enhance economic engagement, including organising a HCM City Product Week in Laos, seminars to provide information on the Bilateral Trade Agreement, business networking events and investment promotion conferences for Lao enterprises in HCM City. Over the years, the cooperation between Viet Nam and Laos, particularly between HCM City and Lao provinces such as Savannakhet, has flourished across various fields, with trade and investment being the most prominent. He noted that as of 2024, Laos remains Viet Nam's top overseas investment destination, ranking first among the 82 countries and territories Viet Nam has invested. Viet Nam is currently the third-largest foreign investor in Laos, with 269 projects and a total registered capital of US$5.66 billion. Vietnamese investments span across various regions of Laos, covering sectors such as finance, banking, telecommunications, services, and agroforestry. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached $2.2 billion in 2024, marking a nearly 34 per cent increase from the previous year and surpassing the $2 billion threshold for the first time, he said. Viet Nams key exports to Laos include machinery, construction materials, pharmaceuticals, processed agricultural products, and consumer goods, while Laos exports minerals, timber, seafood, and agricultural products to Viet Nam, he added. Delegates at the conference agreed that the two countries still have significant untapped potential for cooperation, such as education and training, information technology, trade promotion, investment, culture, and tourism, especially in emerging fields such as e-commerce. With its expertise in e-commerce and IT, HCM City could serve as a strategic partner for Savannakhet Province in these areas. Dr. Sanesack Soulisack, Vice Governor of Savannakhet Province, highlighted the province's strategic geographical position and strengths in agriculture, forestry, manufacturing, and mineral resource extraction (gold and copper), logistics and tourism services. Savannakhet boasts a well-connected regional and international transportation network, two international border gates, and the Savannakhet Special Economic Zone (SEZ), making it an attractive destination for investment in industry, agriculture, and services, he said. He emphasised that the investment environment in Savannakhet is highly favourable, especially in the SEZ, which has successfully attracted numerous domestic and foreign investors and created thousands of jobs for local residents. The conference holds great significance, not only in leveraging the existing potential and strengths of Lao provinces, HCM City, and other Vietnamese localities, but also in encouraging Vietnamese enterprises to conduct in-depth research to identify new opportunities for cooperation and investment with Lao enterprises in general, and in Savannakhet Province in particular, he said. Exhibition of HCM City and Friendship Provinces The fifth Exhibition of HCM City and Friendship Provinces and Cities in Savannakhet is held from April 2 to 6, featuring 250 booths. Organised by ITPC in coordination with relevant departments and agencies from HCM City and Savannakhet Province, the expo has attracted over 130 businesses from Viet Nam, including those from HCM City, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Long An, and Gia Lai, 50 businesses from seven Lao provinces, and Vietnamese companies from Australia, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. A wide range of Vietnamese products is on display at the event, including processed food, consumer goods, household appliances, pharmaceuticals, handicrafts, textiles, footwear, and agricultural products. One of the highlights of the event is the Vietnamese-Lao traditional culinary zone, along with nightly cultural exchange performances, drawing significant attention from Laotian visitors. The event is expected to welcome approximately 55,000 visitors this year. Nguyen Tran Phuong Tran, deputy head of HCM Citys National Assembly delegation, underscored the events critical role in strengthening partnerships among localities of both nations. She expressed confidence that the active participation of businesses would unlock new opportunities and drive sustainable economic growth. VNS HA NOI As Viet Nam faces a reciprocal duty of 46 per cent as part of the US new tariffs on all imports, its electronics, machinery, garment, footwear, and wood industries are likely to witness significant impacts in the short term, but this could also become an impetus for the country to pursue a more sustainable economic model, analysts said. According to the National Statistics Office, these five sectors dominate Viet Nams exports to the US, with many businesses heavily reliant on the North American market. As a result, they are likely to suffer the most from the trade measures. Dr. Bui Quy Thuan, deputy head of the research division at the Vietnam Industrial Park Finance Association (VIPFA), acknowledged the immediate challenges to the country's exports and economy, but viewed them as an opportunity for Vietnam to make long-term changes as it is pressing on with institutional reforms, economic policies, and science - technology development. He perceived that higher tariffs could push Vietnam to accelerate export market diversification by leveraging its 17 free trade agreements (FTAs) such as the EVFTA, CPTPP, and RCEP, or exploring new markets like the Middle East, Northeast Asia, North America, and Africa so as to reduce overdependence on the US market. Additionally, the domestic market, with a population of over 100 million, could also generate new opportunities for businesses. Viet Nam should continue bilateral negotiations with the US administration on major export commodities while guiding businesses in diversifying markets, attracting more US investments, and increasing purchases of goods from the US. Maximising FTAs, accelerating economic policies like public investment promotion to stimulate demand, supporting private sector development, and facilitating innovation and science - technology advancement should be prioritised. Besides, enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnamese enterprises by improving the business environment more substantively is also crucial, according to Thuan. He recommended businesses invest more in technology, accelerate digital transformation, and adopt greener production methods to meet international standards. Research and development, market expansion, and technology application are essential for cutting expenses and producing distinctive products to stay competitive without worries about tariff risks or non-tariff barriers of large trading partners. Highlighting that the US remains one of the top three importers of Vietnamese fruits and vegetables, Chairman and CEO of Vina T&T Group Nguyen inh Tung urged the Government to clarify which products post a trade surplus and which are benefiting US buyers. He said businesses will seek new markets to adapt to the new situation but also hope to receive support in cost reduction and market stabilisation. ang Phuc Nguyen, Secretary-General of the Viet Nam Fruit and Vegetable Association (Vinafruit), pointed out that Viet Nam currently runs a trade deficit with the US in the sector. In 2024, Viet Nams fruit and vegetable exports to the US reached US$360 million, while imports from this market stood at $540 million. He reassured businesses that not all products are subject to the 46 per cent tariff, and that the fruit and vegetable sector may remain unaffected. Nguyen stressed that companies should focus on optimising every stage of production, from raw materials to logistics, to minimise costs and remain competitive against the nations facing lower US tariffs. VNS Tuyen Quang A delegation of nearly 50 overseas Vietnamese from 20 countries and territories, led by Nguyen Trung Kien, Chairman of the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese, met with leaders of the northern mountainous province of Tuyen Quang on April 3 to discuss economic cooperation. Vice Chairman of the Tuyen Quang People's Committee Hoang Viet Phuong highlighted the provinces strategic location, 140 km north of Hanoi, and its historical significance as the former "Capital of the Resistance. He noted that in 2024, Tuyen Quangs economy grew by 9.04%, ranking 12th nationwide and 4th among northern mountainous provinces. Infrastructure improvements, including the Tuyen Quang - Phu Tho Expressway, have reduced travel time from Ha Noi to just 1.5 hours. Tuyen Quang has actively engaged with overseas Vietnamese through international outreach, business networking, and collaboration with the Vietnam business association abroad. Currently, over 5,400 overseas Vietnamese have ties to the province. In 2024, Vietnamese communities abroad contributed over VN1 billion (US$39,000), 16 tonnes of rice, and other aid to support local disaster relief. Provincial leaders called on overseas Vietnamese professionals and businesses to invest in key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and trade. They also urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance connections between provinces and overseas Vietnamese entrepreneurs. Chairman Kien emphasised the growing contributions of overseas Vietnamese to national development, including investments, technology transfer, and cultural promotion. He encouraged them to maintain strong ties with their homeland and support Viet Nams economic and social progress. During the visit, the delegation provided charitable donations to support Tuyen Quangs housing assistance programme for disadvantaged residents. VNS HA NOI The Vietnamese stock market continued its downward trajectory on Friday, with the VN-Index sliding closer to the 1,210-point threshold amid heightened selling pressure and persistent foreign outflows. At the close of trading on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE), the VN-Index fell by 19.17 points, or 1.56 per cent, to end at 1,210.67 points. Market breadth was overwhelmingly negative, with only 71 gainers compared to 275 losers. Market liquidity rose 6.5 per cent from the previous session, reaching approximately VN42.2 trillion (US$1.58 billion). The VN30-Index, which tracks the 30 largest listed companies by market capitalisation, edged down 2.66 points, or 0.21 per cent, to 1,280.52 points. Within the VN30 basket, nine stocks advanced, 20 declined, and one remained unchanged. Leading the decline were stocks in the manufacturing and construction sectors. PetroVietnam Gas Joint Stock Corporation (GAS) recorded the sharpest drop, plunging 6.94 per cent and erasing more than two points from the VN-Index. Vietnam Rubber Group (GVR) also hit the floor, shedding 6.9 per cent. Several large-cap stocks helped cushion the fall. Vingroup Joint Stock Company (VIC) rose by 3.74 per cent, contributing over two points to the VN-Index. Fortune Vietnam Joint Stock Commercial Bank (LPB) hit the ceiling, jumping 6.98 per cent and adding nearly 1.8 points to the benchmark. According to analysts at Saigon Hanoi Securities (SHS): In our previous outlook, we expected the market to experience reduced selling pressure and greater divergence upon revisiting the 1,200-point level, a key zone corresponding to the 2018 peak and the lowest level seen so far in 2024. In reality, the VN-Index dipped sharply to around 1,160 points the April low before rebounding and maintaining its long-term upward trend since April 2020. In the short term, the market has been rattled by an unexpected shock from the newly imposed US tariffs far exceeding general expectations. This has triggered unprecedented declines and record-high trading volume, potentially leading to further forced margin calls in the coming sessions. With current developments, we plan to re-evaluate fundamental and macroeconomic indicators in our April 2025 strategy report, to be released next week. We will also provide updated commentary on the tariff issue, including detailed calculations and new perspectives. Investors should maintain balanced portfolios and prioritise risk management in the face of ongoing volatility. Investment should be focused on fundamentally sound stocks, especially industry leaders in strategic sectors with strong long-term growth potential. On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX), the HNX-Index also fell sharply by 3.98 points, or 1.8 per cent, to close at 216.97 points. Foreign investors continued their aggressive sell-off, posting a record net sell value of more than VN2.8 trillion on the HoSE alone. VNS HCM CITY A variety show featuring Cu Chi's land and people will be staged by young artists from the Tran Huu Trang Cai Luong Theatre in HCM City this month. The event, Trang Chien Khu (Guerrilla Moon), is part of a night tour programme offered by the Cu Chi Tunnels Relics managing board of Cu Chi District. It is designed to provide tourists with the history, culture, and lifestyle of people living in the heroic land of Cu Chi. A taste of traditional theatre in the South is also highlighted. More than 20 artists will perform traditional dances and songs along with vong co (nostalgic tunes) and cai luong (reformed opera) two genres of southern theatre which began more than 100 years ago. The artists will use their art to depict images of Cu Chi people and soldiers living in the 1960s during the anti-American war. They will also use historical artefacts and objects, such as tools, clothing, and daily essentials made by Cu Chi people and soldiers, to demonstrate the shows topic. Sounds, especially music, and light effects will be used. After the show, the audience will be invited to visit and give incense offerings at the Vietnamese Heroic Mothers and Fallen Soldiers Memorial Area at the Cu Chi Traditional House. Our new show, Trang Chien Khu, tells the stories of Cu Chi people and their history, culture and lifestyle. We hope visitors will be entertained and learn more about the Souths history and people, and our heroic land, Cu Chi, said Tran Minh Tam, deputy director of Cu Chi Tunnels Relic. According to Tam, the show is designed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification (April 30, 1975 2025). We are very happy and honoured to join this performance, he added. Cu Chi is located 70 kilometres north-west of HCM City. The 250-km-long Cu Chi Tunnels complex was built in the late 1940s and underwent intense bombardment by the Americans in the 1960s. It served as communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weaponry storage, and living quarters. It began to be known as a barren land between 1969 and 1972 as no animal or plant could live there due to US bombs and the use of Agent Orange and dioxins. Today, the tunnels have been preserved for tourism purposes. It annually attracts around 1.5 million foreign and local visitors from different countries. The show Trang Chien Khu will begin at 7pm on April 12, 19 and 26 at a price of VN399,000 (US$15.96) per person. VNS HCM CITY New visa policies may be implemented to attract top talent and high-net-worth individuals to Viet Nam. The Viet Nam Tourism Advisory Board (TAB) has submitted an official document to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, proposing several visa policy changes aimed at attracting experts, talented individuals, and the super-rich to Viet Nam. Specifically, the TAB suggests that the government introduce three visa categories: the Viet Nam Golden Visa, a five- to 10-year visa with renewal options; the Investor Visa, a 10-year visa with a pathway to permanent residency after five years if the required investment level is maintained; and the Talent Visa, a five-year visa with a simplified renewal process for highly skilled professionals. These programmes could be piloted in select cities with favourable conditions, such as Phu Quoc, HCM City, Ha Noi, and a Nang. Additionally, a nationwide marketing campaign should be launched to promote these visa programmes, funded either by state resources or by tourism-related tax revenues to ensure effective implementation. Risk of Viet Nams tourism lagging behind competitors While Viet Nams tourism industry has nearly recovered to pre-pandemic levels, experts from the TAB are concerned that the country risks falling behind key competitors in the region, particularly Thailand and Malaysia. In 2024, Viet Nam welcomed 17.6 million international visitors, approaching its pre-pandemic numbers. In contrast, Thailand is only 12 per cent away from reaching its previous 40 million arrivals, while Malaysia is just 4 per cent short of its previous 25 million international visitors. TAB assesses that to achieve these results, Viet Nams competitors have implemented significant changes in their visa policies. For instance, Thailand has expanded its visa-free access from 57 to 93 countries and increased its visa-on-arrival eligibility from 19 to 31 countries. Malaysia now grants visa exemptions to 158 nations, and both Thailand and Malaysia have introduced new visa programmes. Meanwhile, Viet Nam currently offers visa exemptions to only 30 countries. Additionally, Thailand launched its Long-Term Residency (LTR) Visa in 2022, allowing four categories of foreigners to reside in the country for up to 10 years. This visa also grants work permits, a reduced personal income tax rate of 17 per cent, and various benefits such as multiple entries and property ownership rights. This year, Thailand has further adjusted the LTR visa criteria to attract more global talent. Other visa programmes include the Thailand Privilege Entry Visa and the Thailand Smart Visa, designed for highly skilled professionals, technology investors, and senior executives who wish to live and work in Thailand. Similarly, Malaysia has relaunched its "Malaysia My Second Home" (MM2H) visa programme to attract global talent and investors. Singapore is also considered a competitor with several visa programmes aimed at attracting international tourists, wealthy entrepreneurs, and professionals in innovation and investment. To cater to different categories, Singapore introduced the EntrePass in 2023 for foreign entrepreneurs establishing innovative businesses in the country. Other programmes include the Global Investor Programme (GIP) and Tech.Pass, designed for technology entrepreneurs and investors. Disparities in tourism promotion budgets TAB points out the significant differences in international tourism promotion budgets among Viet Nam and its competitors. In 2024, Thailand allocated nearly US$200 million, Malaysia $84 million, and Singapore $220 million to promote tourism worldwide. "In contrast, we do not have exact data on the Vietnamese government's budget for international tourism promotion. However, this amount is certainly insignificant, totaling under $8 million, approximately VN200 billion. Our only previous international tourism marketing programme was funded by the private sector, but it has been discontinued due to a lack of sustainable funding mechanisms and government support," the TAB document states. Proposal for three specialised visa categories According to the TAB, the National Assembly has passed a resolution targeting a GDP growth rate of 8 per cent or higher, laying the groundwork for double-digit growth in the future. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has emphasised the importance of maintaining high and sustainable growth until 2045 as a necessary path for Viet Nam to escape the middle-income trap and achieve its strategic objectives. To realise this ambitious growth goal, the Prime Minister has issued specific directives to the tourism sector, stressing the need to boost promotion efforts and develop visa policies tailored to attracting international visitors, experts, talent, and billionaires to Viet Nam. Expanding visa policies is therefore not just an isolated solution but an integral part of Viet Nams broader strategy, a key tool for driving economic growth. Based on this analysis, the TAB proposes that the Prime Minister consider establishing a Visa Policy Reform Committee, which would include representatives from both the public and private sectors. This committee would evaluate new visa types and incentives that Viet Nam should adopt to align with the Prime Ministers strategic goals and compete effectively with regional rivals. VNS HCM CITY On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Viet Nams reunification (1975-2025), HCM City has introduced a series of cultural and historical tours designed to offer visitors deeper insights into the city's past and vibrant present. As part of the annual HCM City Tourism Festival, taking place from April 3 to 6 at 23/9 Park in District 1, these tours cater to both domestic and international visitors, providing unique experiences that highlight the historical significance and cultural richness of the southern metropolis. 1. Memories of Saigon Cho Lon Tour This half-day tour, priced at VN690,000 (US$26.8) per person, takes visitors through key sites linked to the Saigon Commandos, including hidden bunkers and mailboxes. The itinerary also features the o Phu Cafe, the ai Han broken rice restaurant in District 1, and the house at 1-2-3 Quai Testard (now Chau Van Liem Street, District 5), where President Ho Chi Minh resided before embarking on his journey for national salvation. Visitors will also explore the Tue Thanh Assembly Hall, enjoy lion dance performances, and sample renowned Chinese dim sum. 2. District 1 Colours of the Night Tour For VN1.65 million per person, this half-day tour offers an enchanting evening journey through District 1. Highlights include the HCM City Museum, the historic People's Committee Building, and a double-decker bus tour passing major landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, the Central Post Office, Independence Palace, Bitexco Tower, and Hotel Majestic. 3. Legends of the Rung Sac Commandos Tour A visit to the historical Rung Sac site in Can Gio is the focus of this VN1 million half-day tour. Participants will learn about the valiant 10th Regiment commandos and their wartime operations, visit Monkey Island, and take a high-speed canoe ride through lush mangrove forests. 4. Impressions of Saigon Gia inh HCM City Tour For a more relaxed experience, this VN299,000 per person half-day tour allows visitors to stroll through Nguyen Van Binh Book Street, admire the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Central Post Office, and take a Water Bus ride along the Saigon River from Bach ang Wharf. 5. Cu Chi Land of Steel Tour Priced at VN850,000 per person, this tour takes visitors to the famed Cu Chi Tunnels at Ben Duoc. The itinerary includes exploring the extensive underground network used during wartime and visiting the Ben Duoc Temple, a memorial to over 45,600 martyrs. 6. Saigon Commandos Tour This tour revisits the covert operations of the Saigon Commandos. It features stops at Nhan Huong Cafe, which once served as a communication hub for the commandos, and the Saigon Gia inh Commandos Intelligence Museum. Other key locations include a hidden weapons cache on Nguyen inh Chieu Street and the Independence Palace. A journey through history With these specially-curated tours, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation of HCM Citys historical journey and cultural heritage. Whether revisiting wartime relics or exploring vibrant urban landscapes, the experiences promise to be both educational and memorable. The tours are part of broader efforts to promote historical tourism while celebrating the nations reunification milestone. VNS PHU THO For generations, the worship of the Hung Kings has become an integral part of Viet Nam's cultural identity and traditional values, reflecting the deep gratitude of each new generation towards their ancestors for their contributions to the founding and protection of the nation, and becoming a factor to nurture national solidarity. Since the practice of worshipping the Hung Kings in Phu Tho was recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, it has further strengthened the national pride and the spirit of drinking water, remembering the source, a deeply rooted Vietnamese tradition. Over time, the practice has spread widely and continues to thrive. Preserving source of tradition Phu Tho is the cradle of the nation, the birthplace of the worship of the Hung Kings, with the Hung Kings Temple historical site being the largest and most significant place of worship, where solemn and respectful ceremonies take place. Each year, during the Hung Kings Commemoration Day (the 10th day of the third lunar month), the province attracts millions of visitors, including overseas Vietnamese, to offer incense and pay their respects. As such, the preservation and promotion of the values of the Hung Kings worship are always a priority for Phu Tho. Pham Thi Hoang Oanh, Deputy Director of the Hung Kings Temple Historical Relic Site, stated that to pass this heritage on to future generations, the province has developed a national action programme to protect and promote the worship of the Hung Kings in Phu Tho. The province focuses on raising awareness and building the capacity of the community, and organises solemn, respectful ceremonies at the Hung Kings Temple and in villages across the province each year. Phu Tho has also integrated heritage education into schools, extended inventory work to include monuments nationwide, and undertaken research into rituals, performances, and practices related to the worship of the Hung Kings in Vietnamese villages. Social groups have also been established to teach the rituals, performances, and practices of the Hung Kings worship in Phu Tho. The province has invested in restoring and building new sacred spaces, and reviving many worship traditions, festivals, and folk performances. Thanks to these efforts, Phu Tho currently preserves 345 monuments dedicated to the Hung Kings and other figures related to the era of the Hung Kings. Phu Tho is particularly focused on diversifying activities to introduce the values of this tradition to a wider audience. Each year, the province organises numerous events to promote the cultural heritage of Hung Kings worship, allowing people to better understand the significance of this heritage, Oanh stated. Expanding practicing spaces Across Viet Nam, there are 1,417 monuments to the Hung Kings and their family, generals, and other figures from the Hung Kings era. For example, HCM City has 12 sites dedicated to the Hung Kings. On the Hung Kings Commemoration Day, locals visit these sites to offer incense and participate in lively cultural and artistic activities. Not only in Viet Nam but also globally, there are temples dedicated to the Hung Kings, such as in the US, Canada, and Australia, and places where the Vietnamese diaspora gathers to pay respects. In countries like Russia, the Czech Republic, and Laos, overseas Vietnamese communities have established sites for worship and participate in rituals to honour their ancestors. The practice of worshipping the Hung Kings has spread far and wide, with Vietnamese communities wherever they live honouring the kings as part of their ancestral worship. In particular, in 2015, some overseas Vietnamese initiated the Global Viet Nam Hung Kings Day project, an international event that celebrates the spiritual and cultural values of the Vietnamese people. The project, which honours the heritage, culture, traditions, customs, food, and especially the spiritual practice of Hung Kings worship, helps promote Viet Nams image globally while fostering national unity and connecting overseas Vietnamese with their homeland. Over the past 10 years, the project has hosted both in-person and online ceremonies to commemorate the Hung Kings, connecting Vietnamese intellectuals, overseas Vietnamese, and international friends from nearly 50 countries. This has contributed to the preservation of the Hung Kings worship and reinforced national unity, while spreading the values of Vietnamese culture and humanity. VNA/VNS HA NOI Party General Secretary To Lam has emphasised that economic integration must remain the core focus, with integration in other sectors serving to support and facilitate this objective. The top priorities, he noted, are economic restructuring, renewal of the growth model, and the advancement of digital transformation. These points were made in his written article titled Rising in International Integration. He underscored the need to prioritise sectors with clear advantages and potential, directing resources towards key industries and strategic projectsparticularly in infrastructure and energy. These include high-speed railways, expressways, seaports, airports, as well as nuclear, wind, and solar power plants, and other initiatives that reduce emissions and aim for carbon neutrality. Efficiency and the avoidance of waste are essential, especially in the context of digital transformation and the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution. He stressed the importance of maximising the benefits of international economic commitments, agreements, and partnershipsespecially new-generation Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)to ensure mutual benefit and reduce reliance on specific partners. To this end, domestic institutions must be strengthened to enhance the capacity for implementing international commitments and agreements. Special mechanisms and policies should also be developed to attract high-quality foreign direct investment (FDI), with a focus on key emerging industries that serve as new engines for productivity growth, such as information technology, telecommunications, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence. He further called for appropriate policies to encourage foreign investors to transfer technology, management expertise, and professional skills to Vietnamese enterprises and workers. At the same time, Vietnamese businesses should be supported in investing abroad, operating effectively, and building globally recognised national brands. Our country is entering a new era of national risetowards prosperity and strengthin pursuit of a 'wealthy people, strong nation, democratic, equitable, and civilised society.' This requires a renewed mindset, elevated position, and a fresh approach to international integration, he wrote. He described the Politburos introduction of Resolution No. 59-NQ/TW on January 24, 2025, regarding international integration in the new context, as a breakthrough decision and a historic milestone. It positions international integration as a driving force for national development in a new erashifting from passive reception to active contribution, from deep and broad participation to full integration, and from the stance of a latecomer to that of a rising nation pioneering in emerging fields. He affirmed that the Party has consistently regarded international integration as a vital strategy to enhance Viet Nams political stature, boost economic growth, safeguard national security, and elevate the countrys global standing. Over time, this process has evolvedfrom selective and ideologically cautious engagement to initial economic openness, and now to broad, comprehensive integration. He stated that, alongside national defence and security, "promoting external affairs and international integration" is a vital and ongoing task. The guiding principle in international integration, he noted, is to "optimise external resources and favourable conditions for the goal of protecting the homeland and developing the country early and from afar, while ensuring the highest interests of the nation and the best interests of the people." He emphasised that international integration must be a collective effort of the entire population and the whole political system, under the leadership of the Party and the management of the State. "The people and businesses are the centre, subjects, driving forces, main forces, and beneficiaries of international integration," he said. He stressed that integration must go hand in hand with the preservation of national identity, not its erosion. He underscored that international integration must be grounded in intrinsic strength, which plays a decisive role. "Enhancing internal strength must go hand in hand with making effective use of external resources. Internal strength is the main source and root of power, and must always be promoted to ensure proactivity, independence, and resilience. At the same time, it is essential to make full use of external resources to complement and reinforce internal capabilities. A harmonious combination of national strength and the strength of the era will form the foundation of Viet Nams power in this period of national ascent," he noted. He described international integration as a process of both cooperation and contest, where one must "cooperate to struggle and struggle to cooperate." He emphasised the need to prioritise partnership over confrontation, while upholding the core principles of the United Nations Charter and international law. Throughout the integration process, he said, Viet Nam must demonstrate the spirit of being "an active and responsible partner" of the international community, always ready to contribute to regional and global efforts. International integration, he stressed, must be "concerted, comprehensive, intensive, and extensive," with various sectors closely linked and reinforcing one another within a coherent overall strategy, guided by clear focus, appropriate roadmaps, and step-by-step implementation. He called for a shift in mindset, awareness, and action in approaching international integration. Political, security, and defence integration, he said, must aim to enhance the nations capacity and position, and to "protect the country early and from afar, before danger arises." He also stressed that integration must make effective use of established partnerships to foster political trust, mobilise resources for development, resolve outstanding issues through peaceful means, and strengthen cooperation rooted in respect for and adherence to international law. He called for strengthened coordination with partners to effectively address both traditional and non-traditional security challenges, including the East Sea issue, water and food security, environmental pollution, epidemics, cybercrime, and transnational crime. "With our new position and strength, we are able to assume a core, leading, and mediating role in appropriate areas; contribute more actively to international peacekeeping and search and rescue missions; diversify defence and security cooperation; and develop a self-reliant, modern, and dual-use defence and security industry," he said. Science, technology, and innovation must be identified as top important breakthroughs, drivers for the rapid development of productive forces, thus improving production relations in line with Resolution 57. Therefore, international integration in these fields must align domestic standards and regulations on science and technology with advanced international norms and practices, he said. He urged the promotion of comprehensive integration in culture, society, tourism, the environment, education and training, health care, and other sectors. It is important to address bottlenecks in implementing international commitments and agreements, and accelerate the finalisation of institutions and policies, focusing on efforts to review and incorporate international laws into domestic laws to fully, consistently, and effectively implement our obligations and commitments. Organisations and associations must enhance supervision to implement policies, laws and international integration commitments. Ministries, sectors, and localities must speed up the enforcement of international agreements and commitments. At the same time, it is essential to institutionalise and specify international integration strategies by sector, especially in areas such as green economy, digital economy, circular economy, energy transition, digital transformation, carbon emission reduction and outer space. He called for promoting the spirit of Resolution 18 in international integration, the focus should be on streamlining specialised agencies towards a lean, efficient, modern, and professional direction. The goal is to make these mechanisms operate more effectively, creating positive changes in coordinating international integration efforts across all levels, sectors, localities and among people and businesses. The personnel work must be viewed as fundamental, focusing on building a team of professionals in international integration that possesses high expertise and skills at the international level, and capable of participating in mediation and resolving international disputes. Innovation should be encouraged to improve the proactivity and creativity of localities, people, and businesses in international integration. "International integration will only succeed when it becomes a conscious culture embraced by all organisations, individuals, businesses, and localities; and when it harnesses the central role and the active, proactive, and creative participation of the people, enterprises, and localities. This includes linking international integration with domestic integration, connecting regions, localities, sectors, and fields, as well as bridging research with implementation, to deliver tangible results from the integration process," he stated. He noted that the nation stands at a pivotal moment, facing both a great opportunity to rise and immense challenges. The achievements of international integration thus far have helped build the strength and momentum necessary for further breakthroughs. Building on this foundation, he affirmed that Resolution 59 represents a major shift in the Partys thinking and strategic orientation for international integration in the coming period. It aims to generate fresh impetus to propel the country towards a glorious era of "independence, freedom, happiness, prosperity, and lasting success," he concluded. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam regrets the United States decision to impose a reciprocal tariff of 46 per cent on Vietnamese exports to its market, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang said on Friday. Hang made the statement in response to reporters question regarding Viet Nam's reaction to the US President Donald Trump administrations announcement of the reciprocal tariff on imports from many of its trading partners, including Viet Nam. We believe that the decision is not in line with the reality of mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation between the two countries, stated the spokesperson. "It fails to reflect the spirit of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for peace, stability, cooperation, and development; and if enforced, would negatively impact bilateral economic and trade relations as well as the interests of businesses and people in both countries." According to Hang, Viet Nam has actively engaged in discussions with the US in recent times to address concerns, promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation, and work towards fair, sustainable, and mutually beneficial trade. Viet Nam will continue to coordinate and engage in discussions with the US in a constructive and cooperative spirit to find practical solutions that contribute to the stable and sustainable development of bilateral economic relations, ensuring the interests of businesses and people in both countries, she said. In the morning right after the US announcement, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has held urgent cabinet meeting to discuss the issue, ordering the immediate formation of a quick-response team, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son, to develop both immediate and long-term strategies in response to the tariff. Additionally, PM Chinh assigned Deputy PM Ho uc Phoc, former finance minister, to engage with businesses, particularly major exporters, to gather their insights and concerns. Deputy PM Phoc is scheduled to visit the US and Cuba from April 6 to 14, aiming to discuss and negotiate on trade matters. According to the General Department of Viet Nam Customs, Viet Nam's exports to the US in 2024 totaled nearly US$120 billion, marking a 23.2 per cent increase from the previous year and accounting for 29.5 per cent of the nation's total export turnover. PM Chinh has also expressed hope that the US would reconsider its tariff decision, underscoring the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries and Viet Nam's status as a developing nation still recovering from the long-term impacts of war. Viet Nam's stock market reacted negatively to the news yesterday, suffering the worst decline in its history, with VN 500 trillion (US$20 billion) in market capitalisation wiped out. VNS HA NOI State President Luong Cuong and his spouse chaired a welcome ceremony in Ha Noi on Friday for President of Burundi Evariste Ndayishimiye and his spouse, who are paying an official visit to Viet Nam from April 3-6. The visit, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties (April 16, 1975-2025) is considered a historical milestone in the two countries' relations, reflecting their desire to further strengthen the friendship and cooperation in the fields of politics, economy, trade, culture and society. Diplomatic relations between the two nations were established on April 16, 1975. Viet Nam and Burundi share many similarities in history and culture, with both having experienced struggles against colonialism. Burundi's leaders consider Viet Nam as an example in the struggle for national liberation as well as national construction and development. Over the past 50 years, the two countries have maintained fine relations through both Party and State channels. High-level exchanges have strengthened these ties, including Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's meeting with President Ndayishimiye on the sidelines of the 78th UN General Assembly in September 2023, and Secretary General of the National Council for the Defence of Democracy Forces for the Defence of Democracy Reverien Ndikuriyos working visit to Viet Nam in July 2024. Economic and trade ties between the two countries have shown promising growth, with two-way trade topping US$2 million in 2024. Viet Nam primarily ships machinery, equipment, and computer and components to Burundi while importing minerals, ores, and animal feed from the African country. A standout achievement in bilateral cooperation is the investment project by Viet Nam's Viettel Military Industry and Telecoms Group in Burundi. Since establishing operations in 2013 as a joint venture with 85 per cent ownership, Viettel launched its mobile network under the Lumitel brand across Burundi in June 2015. After a decade of operations, Lumitel has become the leading telecommunications provider in Burundi and one of the largest contributors to the Burundian government's budget, providing stable employment for over 60,000 workers and indirectly creating around 100,000 jobs. With the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in 2021, Viet Nam's trade with African markets is expected to increase significantly. Viet Nam, a dynamic economy in Southeast Asia, has seen Africa, particularly East Africa, as a new, potential market rich in resources with numerous cooperation opportunities. The relationship between the two countries will continue developing across multiple sectors, especially economy, trade, and investment on the back of strong political determination from leaders of both countries, abundant resources, and potential for collaboration. This partnership will contribute to realising each country's socio-economic development strategies while promoting peace, stability, prosperity, and development in both regions and continents. After the welcome ceremony, President Luong Cuong and President Evariste Ndayishimiye had a private meeting and then led the two countries' high-level delegations to talks, which aim to evaluate the results of bilateral cooperation over the past time, and propose directions for the coming time. The two leaders will also witness the signing of a number of cooperation documents. VNS HA NOI Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Friday led a high-ranking delegation of the Vietnamese Government to the Lao Embassy in Viet Nam to pay their final respects to Khamtay Siphandone, former President of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, former State President, and former Prime Minister of Laos. Writing in the condolence book at the embassy, the Vietnamese Government leader expressed sorrow over Khamtay Siphandone's passing, stressing that this is an immense loss to the Lao Party, State, and people. Meanwhile, leaders and people of Viet Nam have also lost a great friend and a close comrade who always strived for the revolutionary causes of the two fraternal countries and the special Viet Nam - Laos relationship, he wrote, noting that the deceased was a prominent leader and an outstanding revolutionary who steadfastly dedicated his entire life to the Lao revolution. Appreciating Khamtay Siphandone's significant contributions to the bilateral relations, PM Chinh extended his deepest condolences to the Lao Government leaders and the bereaved family. On Thursday, PM Chinh sent a message of condolences to his Lao counterpart Sonexay Siphandone over the passing of the latter's father. VNS YEREVAN General Secretary of the National Assembly (NA) and Chairman of the NA Office Le Quang Tung held a working session with his Armenian counterpart Davit Arakelyan in Yerevan on Thursday (local time), as part of NA Chairman Tran Thanh Mans ongoing official visit to Armenia. Arakelyan said the partnership between the two NA offices holds an important role within the framework of the strong friendship and cooperation between the two countries and their parliaments. Through sharing, learning, and exchanging experience with the advisory and secretariat bodies of other countries parliaments, the Armenian NA Office has conditions to improve the quality and effectiveness of its activities in service of the Armenian legislature, he said. Arakelyan expressed his desire to strengthen cooperation with the Vietnamese NA Office so that the two sides can exchange experience in areas of mutual interest, such as digital transformation, digital parliament, and applying technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) in parliamentary activities. For his part, Tung stated the application of information technology, including digital transformation and AI, is one of the current priorities of the Vietnamese NA, adding that this also requires the continuous improvement of the capacity and quality of human resources to meet increasing demands in the context of promoting the application of technology and digital transformation in legislative activities. The Vietnamese official also underlined the need to strengthen coordination mechanisms between the NA offices and secretaries general with agencies of the NAs bodies as well as other relevant agencies. Agreeing with Arakelyans proposals, Tung stressed that it is necessary to strengthen information exchange and experience sharing, and better the working capacity of the staff and specialists of the two NA offices to meet current requirements. The two officials also agreed that they will maintain close coordination and mutual support at regional and international forums, expressing their confidence that the friendship and cooperation between the Vietnamese and Armenian NAs, and their respective advisory and assistant bodies will become stronger and deeper in the coming time. VNS HA NOI The Political Bureau on Friday proposed that the Party Central Committee consider and impose disciplinary actions against former Politburo member, former permanent Deputy Prime Minister Truong Hoa Binh. After considering a proposal by the Party Central Committees Inspection Commission, the Politburo concluded that Binh, during his time as Politburo member, Deputy Secretary of the Government's Party Civil Affairs Committee, and permanent Deputy PM, violated the Party's regulations and the States laws in performing his duties, particularly in the prevention and control of corruption and other negative phenomena. He also breached rules on what Party members are prohibited from doing and the responsibility to set an example. His violations caused serious consequences and negative public opinion, hurting the reputation of the Party and State. The Politburo also decided to impose a disciplinary warning on Nguyen Van Hieu, alternate member of the 13th Party Central Committee and deputy head of the Party Central Committees Commission for Information and Education, and Mass Mobilisation. It recommended that the Party Central Committee consider relieving him of his position as an alternate member of the Party Central Committee. Hieu, during his tenure as Secretary of Can Tho Citys Party Committee, violated the Party's regulations and the States laws in the performance of his duties, particularly in the prevention and control of corruption, wastefulness, and other negative phenomena. He also infringed upon rules regarding what Party members are prohibited from doing and the responsibility to set an example. These violations caused serious consequences, created negative public opinion, and damaged the reputation of the local Party organisation and authorities. At its 55th meeting, chaired by Politburo member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of the committees Inspection Commission Nguyen Duy Ngoc on March 31 and April 3, the commission also imposed disciplinary warnings against Tran Viet Truong, a member of the Standing Board of the Party Committee of the Viet Nam Fatherland Front (VFF) and mass organisations, and Vice President of the VFF Central Committee; Nguyen Manh Dung, former Acting Secretary of the Ha Giang Provincial Party Committee; and Pham Ngoc Nghi, Deputy Secretary of the ak Lak Provincial Party Committee, Secretary of the Party Committee of the provincial People's Committee and Chairman of the provincial People's Committee. VNS HA NOI King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium left HCM City Friday, concluding their five-day state visit to Viet Nam at the invitation of State President Luong Cuong and his spouse, Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet. During their stay, the King and Queen paid floral tribute to President Ho Chi Minh at his mausoleum, and laid wreaths at the Monument to Heroes and Martyrs on Bac Son Street in Ha Noi. Party General Secretary To Lam received King Philippe. State President Luong Cuong chaired a welcome ceremony for, met with, and hosted a banquet in honour of the Belgian monarchs. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man also had meetings with the King. The Vietnamese leaders highlighted the historic significance of the first head-of-state-level visit between the two countries since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1973. They expressed their belief that the trip by King Philippe, accompanied by many senior officials, business leaders, representatives of universities and research institutions, would create new momentum to deepen the friendship and multifaceted cooperation Viet Nam and Belgium in a more result-oriented manner, responsibly contributing to peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region and the world. The Vietnamese leaders thanked Belgium for passing a resolution of the Belgian Chamber of Representatives in support of the Agent Orange (AO)/dioxin victims in Viet Nam. They suggested the two sides further strengthen practical cooperation in areas matching Belgium's strengths and Viet Nam's demand, such as high technology, circular economy, strategic infrastructure, and human resources training. Additionally, they called on Belgium to ratify the EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) soon and to advocate the European Commission's removal of the "yellow card" warning against the Vietnamese seafood industry for illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. King Philippe said the geographical similarity, with Belgium located at the centre of Europe and Viet Nam at the centre of Southeast Asia, makes the countries gateways for each other to reach the two regions. He shared his Vietnamese hosts' view that the bilateral friendship has been flourishing over the last 50 years, and agreed that the two countries need to continue working closely together to help address global challenges such as climate change and environmental issues. On this occasion, the two countries leaders witnessed the handover of cooperation documents in the fields of culture, trade, climate change, and support for AO/dioxin victims. During the visit, President Luong Cuong and his spouse Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet, together with King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium toured the Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Ha Noi. The King and Queen also visited tourist attractions, and cultural and economic establishments in Ha Noi, Hai Phong, Quang Ninh, and HCM City. VNS HA NOI State President Luong Cuong held talks with visiting Burundian counterpart Evariste Ndayishimiye in Ha Noi on Friday, during which the two leaders sought ways to further promote friendship and cooperation between the two countries. Welcoming the first official visit by President Ndayishimiye, President Cuong highlighted the significance of the visit, which coincides with the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the Viet Nam-Burundi diplomatic relations (April 16, 1975-2025), the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975-2025), and the 80th anniversary of the National Day of Viet Nam (September 2, 1945-2025). Expressing his belief that this visit will usher in a new phase in the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries, Cuong affirmed that Viet Nam attaches importance to its relations with African nations, including Burundi, a long-time friend and supporter of Viet Nam in both its fight for independence and its current nation-building efforts. The Vietnamese State leader praised the achievements that Burundi has made in maintaining political stability, fostering national harmony, and promoting socio-economic development. He expressed confidence that under President Ndayishimiye's leadership, Burundi will successfully achieve its goals and make further contributions to peace, stability, and development in the region. For his part, President Ndayishimiye expressed his admiration for Viet Nam's struggle for independence and the significant achievements the country has made in socio-economic development, as well as in enhancing its international standing. He noted that despite the geographical distance, the two nations peoples remain united, sharing warm and friendly feelings and supporting each other. Briefing his host on Burundi's socio-economic achievements and the countrys role and contributions at regional organisations, Ndayishimiye emphasised that the visit aimed to reaffirm Burundi's commitment to strengthening and developing its friendship and cooperation with Viet Nam, particularly in investment, agriculture, mining, science and technology, and digital transformation, and suggested the two sides establish permanent diplomatic missions in each others country. The two leaders agreed to enhance high-level exchanges and strengthen political trust through various channels, as well as to effectively implement bilateral cooperation mechanisms, especially the political consultations between the two foreign ministries. They acknowledged the developments in economic cooperation, notably the success of the Lumitel telecommunications joint venture with the engagement of Viet Nams Viettel Group, which has make contributions to economic development while benefiting both nations' citizens. Both sides recognised the untapped potential for further increasing bilateral trade and agreed to promote information exchange about market need, industries, investment opportunities, and to facilitate business connections and cooperation. They concurred to diversify trade items, identify priority sectors, and make it easier for key exports of both nations to access each other's markets. With a shared understanding of the vast potential for bilateral cooperation, the two leaders agreed to continue promoting collaboration in the areas matching their strengths and special interest, particularly agriculture; share development experiences; and actively negotiate to sign cooperation agreements to perfect the legal framework for facilitating cooperation activities. The host took the occasion to thank the Burundi President for supporting and creating favourable conditions for the telecoms joint venture of Viettel, as well as for other Vietnamese businesses to operate and do business in a stable and sustainable manner in the African country. At the talks, the two leaders also exchanged views on international and regional issues of mutual concern. The Vietnamese President appreciated contributions by Burundi, as well as President Evariste Ndayishimiye personally in his role as First Vice-Chairperson of the African Union (AU) in 2025 and as a coordinator of the AU's agenda on youth, peace, and security. They agreed to enhance coordination, cooperation, and mutual support at international organisations, and multilateral and inter-regional forums, particularly the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement. The President of Burundi expressed his willingness to act as a bridge and support Viet Nam in strengthening cooperation with the AU and establishing relations with the East African Community. Regarding the East Sea (internationally known as South China Sea) issue, President Cuong proposed Burundi support ASEAN's stance on solving disputes by peaceful means on the basis of international law, particularly the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as well as ASEAN's efforts to build the East Sea into a sea of peace, stability, cooperation, and sustainable development. The Burundi President invited his Vietnamese counterpart to pay an official visit to the country in the near future. President Cuong accepted the invitation with pleasure. After the talks, the two Presidents witnessed the signing of two cooperation documents: a framework agreement on cooperation between the two Governments and a memorandum of understanding on the establishment of the political and diplomatic consultation mechanism. -- VNS HA NOI Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh had a meeting in Ha Noi on April 4 with Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye who is on an official visit to Viet Nam. The Government leader laid stress on the significance of the visit, which coincides with the 50th anniversary of Viet Nam-Burundi diplomatic relations (April 16, 1975-2025), the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975-2025), and the 80th anniversary of the National Day of Viet Nam (September 2, 1945-2025). He congratulated Burundi on its important achievements under President Ndayishimiye's leadership and expressed Viet Nam's support for Burundi's national development plan, which aims to transform the African nation into an emerging economy by 2040 and a developed country by 2060. President Ndayishimiye expressed his delight at visiting the fraternal Viet Nam and witnessing firsthand the country's remarkable historical achievements after nearly 40 years of renewal. He praised Viet Nam's recent socio-economic management that has successfully met development targets while improving the peoples living standards. The President affirmed that Viet Nam is a close friend and trusted partner of Burundi in Asia, and took this occasion to thank PM Chinhs strong commitment to promoting the bilateral ties. He specifically acknowledged the practical contributions of the Lumitel telecommunications joint venture and expressed support for its operations, including the expansion of 5G coverage in Burundi. The two leaders concurred to increase the exchange of delegations at all levels and strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, and science-technology. They also discussed expanding collaboration into new areas such as agriculture, mining, tourism, infrastructure development, construction materials, and hydropower. Basing on Viet Nam's international integration experience over the past nearly 40 years of renewal, PM Chinh said Viet Nam stands ready to share expertise with Burundi in the areas of mutual interest and strength, including building reform policies, international integration, industrialisation, agricultural development, production, animal husbandry, and education. They welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on political consultations between the foreign ministries and a framework cooperation agreement between the two governments. They confirmed that agencies from both countries will continue active negotiations to sign additional documents to improve the legal framework facilitating bilateral cooperation. Furthermore, the two leaders held that Viet Nam and Burundi need to enhance mutual understanding through training cooperation, exchanges, and connections between people and businesses of both countries to share information about culture, people, business practices, and cooperation opportunities. Regarding multilateral collaboration, they agreed to boost coordination and support each other's positions on regional and international issues at global forums, contributing to maintaining peace, stability, and cooperation in each region and in the world. PM Chinh requested Burundi to support ASEAN's stance on resolving maritime disputes through peaceful means based on international law, particularly the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and ASEAN's efforts to build the East Sea into a sea of peace, stability, cooperation, and sustainable development./. HA NOI Deputy Prime Minister Ho uc Phoc announced on Friday that the Vietnamese Government has proposed the US delay its imposition of new 46 per cent tariffs on Vietnamese goods for 1-3 months, aiming to pave the way for negotiations that ensure fair taxation. Phoc made the statement at his working session in Ha Noi with enterprises exporting products to the US, industry associations, and related agencies. The Deputy PM expressed his surprise at the US's decision announced on April 2, but underscored Viet Nam's consistent openness and cooperation with the US in securing equitable tariffs, curbing goods transshipment, and fostering mutually beneficial trade. He highlighted a recent decree, issued on March 31, slashing 23 tariff lines on goods imported from the US, many now at 0 per cent, as proof of Viet Nam's goodwill. The country has also fast-tracked contracts for US products like aircraft and liquefied natural gas (LNG), while easing the way for US investment and trade. Looking ahead, Phoc affirmed Viet Nam's intent to boost imports of US raw materials and equipment, noting that the two nations goods complement each other rather than compete. He reiterated Viet Nam's firm stance against trade fraud, ensuring it will not serve as a transshipment hub, and pledged adherence to international commitments to avoid affecting businesses and the economy of Viet Nam, the US's consumption, the Viet Nam-US Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and global supply chains. Viet Nam will also roll out measures to increase cooperation with the US in sci-tech and digital transformation, and increase imports of American-made products as well, the Deputy PM said. He encouraged Vietnamese exporters to hold steady on prices while waiting for results of negotiations and adopt proactive strategies to maintain their US market shares. The Vietnamese Government, Phoc added, will work closely with businesses to devise solutions to weather these challenges. The Deputy PM also called on the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Viet Nam and the US-ASEAN Business Council to convey the message of goodwill from the Vietnamese Government and business community to President Donald Trumps administration to foster effective talks that could further reinforce the Viet Nam-US comprehensive strategic partnership. Virginia Foote, Vice Chair of AmCham Ha Noi, welcomed Viet Nam's efforts, noting US companies eagerness to finalise deals in energy, LNG, and aviation to balance trade. She highlighted US firms confidence in Vietnamese consumers demand, thus driving their push to expand in this vibrant market. Foote also advised Viet Nam to show its efforts in combating transshipment of goods and thoroughly resolving accusations and rumors that are not beneficial to Viet Nam. Opinions suggest that Viet Nam's exports of agricultural, forestry, fishery products, and footwear to the United States are not only products that meet increasingly high standards and possess comparative advantages but also contribute to the economy and benefit US consumers, heard from the meeting. The export of goods from Viet Nam to the US is mutually beneficial; businesses and associations affirm their readiness to increase imports of US products, provide evidence to verify origin and capacity to support negotiations, and stress that "by all means, this market must be maintained." Providing various practical consultations for the Vietnamese Government in negotiations with the US, especially regarding product categories, industries, and tax imposition timelines, representatives of associations and enterprises also propose measures to reduce the trade deficit between the two countries. They pledge to continue actively cooperating with the Vietnamese Government to address future challenges. VNS HA NOI Armenian Ambassador to Viet Nam Suren Baghdasaryan has highlighted the significance of National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man's official visit to Armenia, describing it as a symbol of strengthening diplomatic and political-economic cooperation between the two nations. Granting an interview to the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), the diplomat underscored that the visit marks a critical development step in the bilateral relations following President of Armenian National Assembly Alen Simonyan's trip to Viet Nam in November 2024. It reflects both countries commitment to enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation, fostering closer ties at all levels. We are eager to move forward towards strengthening and deepening our cooperation and political dialogue in such crucial areas as high-tech industry, trade, educational exchanges, and people-to-people contacts. Viet Nam is an important partner for Armenia in the ASEAN region, he stated. The diplomatic relationship between Viet Nam and Armenia has developed steadily since Armenia gained independence. Over the recent past, the two countries have witnessed official visits by the President of Armenia to Viet Nam, as well as visits by the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Viet Nam to Armenia. The official visit by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to Viet Nam in 2019 further strengthened the ties. He underscored that the opening of a resident diplomatic mission in Ha Noi in 2013 demonstrated the importance Armenia places on its partnership with Viet Nam. The diplomat said that parliamentary cooperation plays a crucial role in the relationship between the two countries. The Armenian delegation's visit to Viet Nam last November, led by the President of the National Assembly, gave a new boost to high-level political dialogue between the two countries, which had been interrupted due to pivotal events in recent years, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and various regional and global developments. During this visit, various issues related to the bilateral relations, as well as regional and global issues of mutual interest, were discussed. Over the past three decades, Viet Nam and Armenia have continuously promoted effective cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels. Their diplomatic relations remain friendly and constructive, with exchanges of visits and cooperation in international forums such as the UN. According to Baghdasaryan, trade and investment between the two countries have gradually increased, with Viet Nam particularly seeing growth in exports to Armenia, including goods like electronics, textiles, and agricultural products. Armenia has also expressed interest in expanding its trade relations with Viet Nam, particularly in the fields of technology and agriculture. Meanwhile, cultural exchange and educational cooperation have become important pillars of the relationship. Vietnamese students have studied in Armenia and vice versa, fostering deeper people-to-people ties. Other areas with potential for future cooperation include trade, high technology and investment, with Armenias strategic location in the South Caucasus region providing Viet Nam with opportunities to access new markets. The National Assemblies of Viet Nam and Armenia have established a solid foundation for cooperation, with both sides committed to strengthening ties. Looking ahead, the parliaments of both nations plan to continue promoting mutual trust, understanding, and institutional development through legislative exchanges. The two sides aim to facilitate broader cooperation in economic, trade, and educational areas, ensuring that parliamentary engagement contributes to the overall enhancement of Armenia-Viet Nam relations. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam is prepared to negotiate with the United States to reduce import tariffs on US goods to zero, Party General Secretary To Lam said during a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Friday. Attending the phone call were Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Chief of the Party Central Committees Office Le Hoai Trung, and Deputy Prime Minister Ho uc Phoc. During the conversation, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, for the benefits of both countries, and contributing to regional and global peace, stability, and development. They shared the assessment that Viet Nam-US relations have been thriving across many areas. On trade relations, the two leaders discussed measures to further facilitate bilateral trade. General Secretary To Lam stressed Viet Nam's willingness to negotiate with US to cut tariffs on US exports to Viet Nam to 0% and requested the US to do the same for Vietnamese exports to the US. He also stated that Viet Nam seeks to increase imports from the US and will encourage and create favourable conditions for American businesses to further invest in Viet Nam. The two leaders also agreed to maintain discussions to soon sign an agreement between the two countries to formalise the aforementioned commitments. On this occasion, General Secretary To Lam extended an invitation to President Trump and the First Lady to visit Viet Nam at their earliest convenience. President Trump accepted the invitation and expressed his desire to meet with General Secretary To Lam soon. He also asked General Secretary To Lam to convey his warm regards to Viet Nam's leaders and people. This phone call took place only two days after the US President announced a round of reciprocal tariffs against many of US trading partners, in which Viet Nam is hit with a massive 46 per cent tariff. Vietnamese agencies have characterised the tariffs as going against the strong bilateral cooperation ties between the two countries, but are ready to have discussions with the US side to arrive at a fair solution. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam always values its friendship and cooperation with African countries, including Burundi, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) To Lam told President of Burundi Evariste Ndayishimiye during a reception in Ha Noi on April 4. Welcoming Ndayishimiye on his first-ever official visit to Viet Nam from April 3-6, Party chief Lam noted that the trip coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties (April 16), a milestone that strengthens ties between the CPV and Burundis National Council for the Defence of Democracy Forces for the Defence of Democracy (CNDD-FDD), as well as the broader relationship between the two nations. He expressed confidence that the CNDD-FDD will guide Burundi successfully through its 2018-2027 National Development Plan, with a vision extending to 2040 and 2060, elevating the countrys global standing and contributing further to peace, stability, and development in the region and beyond. Viet Nam expects to boost bilateral ties, focusing on investment, agriculture, mining, technology, digital transformation, and leadership training, he said, urging Burundi to continue supporting Viettel Groups telecom joint venture, a key player in both nations socio-economic progress. According to him, Viet Nam is strong in agriculture, mining, and telecommunications and stays ready to back Burundi in these fields, while expanding collaboration in others in the time ahead. President Ndayishimiye praised Viet Nams impressive achievements under the CPVs leadership, calling them an inspiration for Burundis national reconstruction process. He sought Viet Nams expertise in rapid, sustainable socio-economic growth to help Burundi catch up with regional peers, and affirmed his Governments commitment to deepening ties in investment, sci-tech, agriculture and education-training, with special support for Viettel joint venture as a bridge between the two countries. Both leaders agreed to continue facilitating the exchange of delegations at all levels and through various channels to bolster political trust and create new momentum, with their ruling parties set to enhance dialogue and encourage womens and youth groups, especially young people, to connect more. They welcomed the signing of several agreements during the visit and urged agencies to negotiate further pacts to solidify the legal framework for cooperation. On the global stage, both expressed satisfaction with their mutual support at forums like the United Nations and the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF). They pledged closer collaboration, including within ASEAN and the African Union (AU), and reaffirmed their commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes in line with international law to maintain regional stability and security. The host urged Burundi to back ASEAN's stance on peacefully settling maritime disputes, based on respect for international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982), and ASEAN's efforts to build the East Sea as a zone of peace, stability, cooperation, and sustainable development. On the occasion, Ndayishimiye invited Lam for an official visit to Burundi. The Vietnamese Party leader thanked the President for his invitation, and suggested the two foreign ministries arrange a suitable date. VNA/VNS HCM City HCM City has firmly established itself as a premier healthcare centre in the 50 years since national reunification, having built a robust and modern healthcare system and made significant strides in medical research, according to city authorities. Tang Chi Thuong, director of the citys Department of Health, said many of the citys hospitals have mastered specialist techniques that are on par with the best in the world, providing high-quality, specialised medical services for both locals and foreign patients. The city has placed a high priority on developing community healthcare and building equitable, quality and globally integrated healthcare services, laying a solid foundation for its ambition to establish itself as a healthcare hub in the ASEAN region by 2030, Thuong said. As of the end of last year, it had a ratio of 21 doctors per 10,000 people and 43 hospital beds per 10,000 people. City Party Secretary Nguyen Van Nen said the health sector had kept pace with global development and integration trends throughout its 50-year journey of development. From a fragile medical system that faced a number of shortcomings 50 years ago, today we have constructed a comprehensive and modern healthcare network, affirming its position as a major healthcare centre within the country, he said at a meeting held to mark the 70th anniversary of Vietnamese Doctors Day on February 25. He highlighted the consistent growth of the medical workforce, its notable achievements in research, and its mastery of specialised techniques. The level of science and technology in the medical field is approaching that of some of the most advanced countries, with advancements in medical technology being adopted in areas such as organ transplantation, endoscopic surgery, interventional cardiology, nuclear medicine, and assisted reproduction, he said. The adoption of AI, telemedicine, and digital health solutions is also increasing, he said. Advancements in medical technology In the field of obstetrics and gynaecology, the city has a low maternal mortality rate, and hospitals have mastered modern prenatal screening techniques. The success rate of in vitro fertilisation is high, at 5060 per cent, which is comparable to developed countries, but with lower treatment costs, according to a report released by the department. In paediatrics, hospitals have successfully performed many complex organ transplants, separated conjoined twins and saved the lives of numerous premature babies. Complex diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy and cardiovascular diseases are also effectively treated with the application of advanced techniques, including CT, cardiac MRI, and congenital heart surgery. In the field of surgery, the city has adopted minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic surgery, robotics, and endovascular intervention. Titanium 3D printing technology has been used in orthopaedic treatment, demonstrating high efficiency. The field of neurosurgery is also thriving, with advanced techniques for the treatment of brain tumours and cerebrovascular disease. Plastic surgery, microsurgery and robotic surgery are done using advanced techniques that are on par with international standards. Peoples Hospital 115 receives more than 15,000 stroke patients each year and plays a role as a leading training centre in the country. Complex organ transplant techniques, such as ABO-incompatible kidney transplant, liver transplant, and heart transplant, have been successfully performed at many major hospitals in the city. Other specialties, such as otolaryngology, ophthalmology, maxillofacial surgery, dermatology, haematology, and molecular biology, are also increasingly adopting advanced technologies. Development of community healthcare In the last 50 years, the healthcare sector has focused on improving disease prevention capacity, strengthening grassroots healthcare and developing community health. The life expectancy of city residents has increased from 66 years in 1979 to 76.6 years in 2024, which is higher than the national average of 74.7 years. The average height has improved significantly, increasing from 168.2 cm in 2014 to 169.2 cm in 2019 for men and from 155.9 cm to 157.0 cm for women. With a focus on the development of primary and community healthcare, the city has steadily reduced the rate of malnutrition and blindness, while improving the quality of healthcare, well-being and life expectancy. It has eliminated polio, neonatal tetanus, malaria, and leprosy, and has effectively controlled HIV/AIDS, with a target to end the scourge by 2030. Digital transformation HCM City is increasingly investing in building smart healthcare and integrating AI technologies to facilitate more efficient healthcare services and better patient outcomes, and is focusing on patient-centric care, Thuong said. Through digital transformation, hospitals and medical facilities can optimise workflows, reduce patients waiting times, manage patient data systematically and securely and improve hospital administration, he said. For the last three years, Nguyen Thi Nga, 56, has had check-ups and treatment for bone and joint diseases and hypertension at the Thu uc City Hospital. Until a year ago, she had to go there early in the morning and wait for hours to see her doctor. But now it has become extremely convenient after the hospital started using QR codes to streamline appointments, allowing patients to make them easily by scanning a QR code with their smartphone. Every time I visit the hospital, I just scan the QR code printed on the prescription and make an appointment, making it convenient and timesaving, she said. In the past, when taking their children to the City Childrens Hospital in Binh Chanh District, people had to carry a lot of documents, including medical records and test results. Now the situation is completely different since the hospital maintains electronic health records that contain a comprehensive collection of a patients medical history, medications, laboratory test results, and other health information. Bich Lieu of Binh Chanh District takes her child to the City Childrens Hospital every time she is sick. I was instructed to download an application and fill in the information to make an appointment so that I do not have to wait so long to see a doctor, she said. I can also see my daughters medical history, test results, and even her vaccination schedule. It is really convenient. Duong Minh Tri, head of the examination department at the City Childrens Hospital, said with the digitilisation of health records, doctors easily assess, monitor and evaluate the treatment process for children. Besides, sharing of information between specialities has also become faster and more accurate, he said. Thuong said the health sector is actively exploring digital solutions and artificial intelligence to provide better care for both locals and international patients. Some hospitals have shifted from paper to electronic medical records, including City Childrens Hospital, Childrens Hospital 1, Traditional Medicine Hospital, Hung Vuong Hospital, and the University of Medical Centre HCM City. The use of telemedicine helps connect doctors at lower levels with specialists at advanced hospitals, enabling remote medical examination and treatment, and providing remote support for doctors working at grassroots healthcare facilities in the southern region. Many medical facilities have embraced AI for diagnosis and treatment. The Thanh An island commune health station in Can Gio District, for example, has been using an AI-powered system for analysing chest X-rays for the last two years. Binh Dan Hospital is a regional training centre for robotic surgery, which it has been performing for years. The intensive investment in modern infrastructure, digital health and medical innovation, workforce development and international cooperation will elevate the healthcare sector to new heights, Thuong concluded. VNS YANGON -- After five days in Myanmar, the Vietnamese search and rescue force comprising both military and police officers has successfully recovered nearly 20 bodies from the rubble and, in coordination with Turkish and Myanmar teams, rescued one survivor. On April 3, the Vietnamese rescue delegation held a working session with the Disaster Management Centre under Myanmar's Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, chaired by Minister Soe Win. During the meeting, the Vietnamese team updated the minister on their operations over the past days and discussed upcoming rescue activities at the site. Specifically, after five days of operations, the team has recovered nearly 20 bodies, which were handed over to the victims families and local authorities. They also successfully rescued a survivor in coordination with Turkish and Myanmar teams on the ground Families of the victims expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Vietnamese team for helping them retrieve the bodies of their loved ones, even after they had lost hope. The minister said he highly appreciated the assistance of the Vietnamese rescue team and expressed a desire for continued support and cooperation, especially in helping displaced residents and in the search for victims still trapped under the debris. -- VNS BERLIN, GERMANY Global science company Bayer is gearing up to launch an array of groundbreaking products with blockbuster potential in 2025, a top company official said on Tuesday. Stefan Oelrich, a member of the board of management of Bayer AG and president of Bayers pharmaceuticals division, speaking at the Pharma Media Day held in Germany, said: 2025 marks a significant launch year for Bayer Pharmaceuticals, and we are fully committed to harnessing the potential of our robust pipeline. The event showcased notable progress in Bayer's pharmaceutical growth strategy, underscoring its substantial investments in research and development to accelerate medical innovations. Bayer has strategically built a highly differentiated pipeline focusing on key therapeutic areas such as oncology, cardiovascular diseases, neurology, rare diseases, and immunology. Besides, advancements have also been achieved in the realm of cell and gene therapy with important clinical milestones reached, particularly in treating Parkinsons disease. Bayer aims to introduce a new treatment for patients suffering from heart failure with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 40 per cent or highera prevalent form of heart failureby the end of 2025. It also plans to offer an innovative hormone-free treatment designed to alleviate moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms in menopausal women. It plans to enhance its leadership position by introducing a new treatment option for men grappling with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. Christine Roth, executive vice president of global product strategy and commercialisation and a member of the pharmaceuticals leadership team at Bayer, said: "We are shaping a new era of medicine, confident that we can not only transform patient care through breakthrough innovation and a robust product portfolio, but also accelerate patient access to new medicines. With every new development, we move one step closer to realising our vision: to treat the untreatable, cure disease, and offer hope. The companys strategic transformation has led to significant progress in R&D, delivering a competitively structured and differentiated pipeline. In 2024 the companys late-stage Phase III trials delivered positive outcomes. Dr Christian Rommel, PhD, member of Bayers pharmaceuticals executive committee and head of research and development, said: Our renewed early pipeline positions us for long-term growth, allowing us to advance targeted treatments that promise to significantly improve patient outcomes. We are now poised to deliver innovative therapies that will make a meaningful difference in patients' lives while driving sustainable business growth. Driving growth and strengthening leadership Significant growth and strengthened leadership across key therapeutic areas, including oncology, cardiovascular, womens health, are at the heart of Bayers strategy. The company is intensifying efforts to establish itself as a leader in prostate cancer treatment, addressing one of the most prevalent cancers among men. Bayer's focus on three key scientific areastargeted radiopharmaceuticals, next-generation immuno-oncology, and precision molecular oncologyhas the potential to meet the unmet needs of cancer patients. By advancing innovative projects in these fields, it aims to introduce truly pioneering treatments. In precision cardiology, it is committed to exploring innovative approaches across a broad range of modalities with the goal of revolutionising care for individuals with cardiovascular conditions. It seeks to address substantial unmet needs and potentially reverse life-altering diseases. In womens health, Bayer is dedicated to addressing the needs of menopausal women to enhance their quality of life. It is investing in innovation to expand treatment options and raise the standard of care. One of its upcoming initiatives in 2025 is the launch of a new hormone-free treatment for menopause, which has shown consistent promise in alleviating moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms and improving sleep disturbancesissues often experienced during menopause or as a side effect of breast cancer treatments. Clinical Phase III studies have also demonstrated improvements in menopause-related quality-of-life challenges. Furthermore, in collaboration with BlueRock Therapeutics, a wholly owned Bayer subsidiary, the company is advancing an investigational cell therapy designed to implant dopamine-producing nerve cell precursors into the brain. Following promising Phase I data, the treatment is progressing to Phase III clinical development. The FDA has granted it Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy designation in recognition of its innovative potential for treating Parkinsons disease. -- VNS HA NOI The Government Inspectorate has announced their findings into the violations in the investment and construction of the two new branches of Bach Mai Hospital and Viet NamGermany Friendship Hospital, stating that an estimated losses of nearly VN80 billion (approximately US$3.2 million) to the State budget have been incurred. The conclusion comes from the agencys recently issued inspection report, which highlights multiple breaches of regulations in the project implementation process. According to the findings, in 2014, the Key Healthcare Project Management Unit, the investor in the projects, submitted a proposal, which was approved by the Minister of Health, to hire foreign consultants for the development of the hospital projects (both based in capital city Ha Noi) in the northern province of Ha Nam. However, the inspection revealed that both the Minister of Health and the Key Healthcare Project Management Unit at the time had seriously violated regulations on public procurement. They deliberately selected a predetermined foreign consulting firm, bypassing legal procedures and competitive bidding requirements. In the project proposal, the Project Management Unit justified the need for foreign consultants by stating that the hospital buildings required advanced architectural designs and modern materials to accommodate increasingly sophisticated and diverse medical equipment. They claimed that domestic consulting firms were not capable of meeting these demands, thus necessitating the hiring of foreign consultants. Despite this claim, the investor failed to provide any evidence proving that domestic consulting firms were unable to meet the project requirements. In fact, prior to this, a domestic consultancy had already provided project development services and technical design consulting for a hospital with an even larger capacity. The Government Inspectorate concluded that while the Director of the Key Healthcare Project Management Unit only proposed hiring foreign consultants to develop the project, the Minister of Health went further. In Decision No 996 dated March 21, 2014, the Minister not only approved this proposal, but also extended it to include hiring foreign consultants to design both projects even though there had been no such recommendations, and the two projects had not yet received official approval at that time. Subsequently, in Notification No 417 dated May 9, 2014, the Minister of Health issued a directive naming VK Group, a company based in Belgium, as the designated consulting firm for the projects, despite the fact that no contractor selection process had taken place. The Government Inspectorate emphasised that the proposal and approval of hiring VK Group as the foreign consultant were both subjective and intentionally biased. This decision was made without a proper assessment of the capacity and experience of domestic firms, in clear violation of Viet Nams laws on bidding and the regulations governing the engagement of foreign consultants in construction projects. The Inspectorate assigned responsibility to the Minister of Health, the Director of the Key Healthcare Project Management Unit, the Department of Medical Equipment and Construction, and other related units and individuals. Furthermore, the inspection found that the process of proposing and approving architectural design plans showed signs of dishonesty and a lack of transparency. There was evidence of an intentional effort to select VK Group to participate in the architectural design phase, despite insufficient grounds to confirm the company's qualifications and without properly evaluating the capabilities of domestic firms. These actions represent serious violations of Circular No 23/2009 issued by the Ministry of Construction, as well as the regulations on hiring foreign consultants in construction activities within Viet Nam. In addition, the Government Inspectorate determined that numerous violations occurred during the implementation of four foreign consulting packages, including TV4/2014, TV5/2014, TVBM-04 and TVV-04. The Minister of Health, the Key Healthcare Project Management Unit and various involved units and individuals were found to have deliberately violated the law on public procurement. These violations included dividing the bidding packages without considering the technical requirements, procedural order or project integration and including the specific names of foreign consulting contractors in the bidding plans submitted for approval. Furthermore, they structured the names and scopes of the bidding packages in a way that narrowed the consultancy's responsibilities, a move that limited competition and transparency. The process of negotiating and signing consultancy contracts also contained serious violations. The signed contract values were significantly higher than the standard consultancy cost norms for investment and construction projects. Specifically, the consultancy contract for project development was approximately 5.6 times higher than the norm, with an estimated overpayment of about VN35.8 billion for the two projects. Meanwhile, the value of contracts for technical design and construction drawing consultancy, particularly two architectural design consultancy contracts that made up 72 per cent of the total, was around 2.3 times higher than the standard, resulting in an estimated excess of over VN69 billion. Altogether, the total value of the consultancy contracts exceeded the normative cost by around VN104.86 billion. Of this amount, payments made exceeded standard rates by about VN80 billion, representing a provisional loss of VN80 billion to the State budget. Given the signs of serious legal violations under the 2015 Penal Code, the Government Inspectorate has forwarded the documents and records related to the four consultancy packages to the Ministry of Public Security for further investigation. The Inspectorate further clarified that for packages TV4 and TV5, the invited consulting firms to prepare bidding proposals were not the authors of the selected architectural design plans, which violates Decree No 85/2009 and undermines competition. Similarly, for packages TVBM-04 and TVV-04, the consulting firms invited to submit proposals were also not the authors of the selected architectural designs. In these cases, architectural design services were directly awarded without proper bidding, in violation of procurement laws. All four consultancy packages did not meet the legal criteria for contractor designation, yet they were still implemented in that manner. This constitutes prohibited practice under the bidding regulations. These two projects, initiated in 2014 under the Prime Ministers directive, were expected to be finished by 2017. The projects adopted a design-build-operate contract model, a novel approach in 2014, which caused difficulties during implementation. In January 2021, construction was suspended by the contractor. VNS JAKARTA After months of delays, the Gerindra Party and the de facto opposition Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) have agreed to push for a long-awaited meeting between their respective leaders, President Prabowo Subianto and Megawati Soekarnoputri, according to several senior politicians from both sides. Senior Gerindra politician Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, who is also House of Representatives Deputy Speaker, said he had spoken about a renewed plan for the Prabowo-Megawati meeting with PDI-P executive and Megawatis daughter Puan Maharani, who is also his direct superior as House Speaker. We both have agreed that [a meeting] should take place as soon as possible, Dasco said on Wednesday, as quoted by Tempo.co. When will it happen, exactly? Lets just wait and see. I briefly discussed it with Mbak [Ms.] Puan earlier, he added. Expectations have been high for a potential meeting between the two leaders since the end of the 2024 presidential election, which Prabowo won, but the encounter has yet to occur. Analysts have said the fractured relationship between Megawati and former president Joko Jokowi Widodo, who was stripped of his PDI-P membership for backing Prabowo instead of the partys candidate Ganjar Pranowo, had complicated plans for a meeting. The renewed plan surfaced after Prabowos son, Ragowo Didit Hediprasetyo, visited Megawatis private residence in Menteng, Central Jakarta, for the first day of Idul Fitri on Monday. When asked about the purpose of his visit, Didit told reporters he had come to offer his holiday greetings. Puan declined to reveal any details regarding the plans for the meeting, telling reporters on Wednesday that it would take place as soon as possible after the holiday. She made the remarks after attending a private Idul Fitri gathering hosted by Gerindra politician Ahmad Muzani, who is also Speaker of the Peoples Consultative Assembly (MPR). Puan also said Megawati and Prabowo were unable to meet over Idul Fitri due to their busy schedules, but her mother had asked Didit to pass on her warm regards and wishes for the Presidents health and well-being. According to PDI-P spokesperson Ahmad Basarah, a meeting between the two political bigwigs is simply a matter of time. [Megawati] has often said that she maintains a long-standing relationship with Pak [Mr.] Prabowo and that continues to this day, as shown by Pak Didits visit to her home, Basarah said in a statement. Citing anonymous sources, Tempo reported earlier this year that the two leaders had held a private teleconference around Megawatis birthday in January. During that call, the countrys fifth president reportedly offered to cook fried rice for Prabowo, the same gesture she made after he lost the 2019 presidential election. The Jakarta Post/ANN Mark Gillin, chairman, AmCham Vietnam Mark Gillin, chairman, AmCham Vietnam, said that the mission of American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City (Amcham) was to encourage trade and investment between the US and Vietnam, through free and fair trade and economic policy that fosters productivity and predictability. "The size and immediacy of the 46 per cent reciprocal tariffs announced by the US government on April 2 are wholly inconsistent with these goals. The suddenness of their implementation and the substantial scale of the tariffs has created significant uncertainty and potential disruption for businesses operating in Vietnam," said Gillin. "Such a period would allow businesses on both sides to adapt to the new regulations, mitigating unnecessary disruption and financial harm." Currently, the immediate implementation negates the opportunity for businesses to adjust to the new conditions, as commercial decisions have already been made based on prior trade agreements. AmCham believes that the US and the Vietnamese government are aligned on the fact that the growth in the trade deficit is simply not sustainable. The US administration has made clear that one of the goals of the reciprocal tariffs is to bring greater reciprocity to the tariff rates each country applies to the other. Amcham would welcome lower tariffs on US goods entering Vietnam as one way of addressing the trade imbalance, and of significantly reducing the reciprocal duties. Duties on US goods should at least be equal to those applied to Vietnams other trading partners and to those applied to Vietnamese goods entering the US. The US is the largest export market for Vietnamese goods, yet it is also assessed some of the highest duties of Vietnams leading trading partners. "We are hopeful that both countries can align on reduced duty rates to levels both view as reciprocal so that we can continue the trade relationship that has benefited all participants. Ultimately, AmCham members require certainty and stability to operate effectively. We ask both governments to expedite negotiations aimed at reducing these duties to the lowest possible levels. In this spirit, AmCham stands ready to provide constructive input and facilitate dialogue between the US and Vietnamese governments to improve the trade relationship," he said. Stock market reacts sharply to US tariffs President Donald Trumps decision to impose new tariffs worldwide has triggered a global stock market sell-off, sending the VN-Index into its steepest decline in a year. US business groups voice dismay at Trump's new tariffs President Donald Trump's tariff announcement on Wednesday was widely panned by US business lobbying groups, who voiced concern about the impact of the sweeping new duties on their operations. The impact of Trumps tariffs on Vietnam The April 3 announcement that the Trump administration will impose 46 per cent reciprocal tariffs on Vietnam from April 9 was completely unexpected. Michael Kokalari, chief economist from VinaCapital, analyses the impact and potential solutions Vietnam should take. At a seminar on managing and operating centralised cryptocurrency exchanges last week in Hanoi, it was noted that around 6 per cent of the global population, equivalent to 617 million people, are trading in the virtual asset market with a trading volume hitting $200 billion per day. Crypto clarity could offer fresh investment channels, Photo: Shutterstock Vietnam, which had a market size of $105 billion in the 2023-2024 period and around 17 million people dabbling in cryptocurrency, currently ranks seventh in the world in terms of trading volume. The country has consistently been in the top five countries for digital asset adoption worldwide, according to Chainalysis, for the past four years, with two years at the top in 2021 and 2022. According to cryptocurrency exchange Binance, trading volume from Vietnam accounts for about 5 per cent of total global transactions, but Tran Huyen Dinh, chairman of the Fintech Application Committee under the Vietnam Blockchain Association (VBA), the hosts of last weeks seminar, believes the actual number will be even higher. Although there is no legal framework yet, about 20 centralised cryptocurrencies and virtual asset exchanges have been operating secretly in Vietnam for many years. The law does not prohibit it, but also does not allow it, so these exchanges are operating in a grey area, with no specific legal entity, he said. Dinh added that the development of a pilot centralised cryptocurrency exchange is necessary and will help Vietnam achieve several goals, such as recognising the inhabitant tax, attracting international investors to Vietnam, and drawing Vietnamese investors back to the domestic market. The establishment of pilot cryptocurrency exchanges also brings a new investment channel for investors, helps mitigate legal risks for businesses that are already operating, and attracts more foreign capital, Dinh stressed. Cryptocurrency trading and digital asset issuance have been actively taking place in recent years. Quang Nguyen, CEO of MetaDOS, a company developing games combined with blockchain technology in Singapore, said government recognition of cryptocurrency assets will give blockchain projects in Vietnam additional support in terms of legal framework, helping to establish credibility and trust with global investors. However, due to limited access to capital and the short-term focus of project developers, as well as the negative perception of some previous ventures, not many Vietnamese digital asset projects have successfully launched on an international scale, Nguyen added. VanEck, a US-based asset management company, is considering a collaboration with SSI Securities Corporation to establish a Bitcoin fund in the country. During his business trip to Vietnam two weeks ago, Jan van Eck, CEO of VanEck, also expressed his enthusiasm for Vietnam being on the brink of adopting blockchain and digital asset technologies. Positive changes in the US governments stance on cryptocurrency have opened opportunities for connections between the regulatory bodies of both countries, which could help Vietnam reference and build an appropriate legal framework, van Eck said. His company has been building exchange-traded funds for investing in cryptocurrencies. Last year, it was approved in the United States to establish the VanEck Bitcoin Trust fund. The fund currently holds Bitcoin with a net asset value of approximately $1.19 billion. According to the VBA, about 60 per cent of cryptocurrency in Vietnam is traded on centralised exchanges. However, due to the lack of a specific legal framework, these cryptocurrency assets are still not recognised on official financial systems. VBA chairman Phan Duc Trung noted that promoting a pilot cryptocurrency exchange initiative alongside the push for the Law on Digital Technology Industry, which is expected to be passed in May, demonstrates the governments strong determination to build a legal framework for digital assets. Legalising decentralised finance ensures the legality of cryptocurrency assets, while also helping Vietnam optimise resources from the rapidly growing crypto market and meet the governments anti-money laundering commitments, Trung said. According to Googles e-Conomy 2024 report for Southeast Asia, Vietnams digital economy is expected to have reached $36 billion in 2024 and could grow to as much as $200 billion by 2030. Data from Mordor Intelligence also indicates that the global cryptocurrency market is currently valued at around $1.33 trillion and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 30.4 per cent. Vietnams total registered FDI so far is expected to reach 30 per cent higher than the same period last year, Photo: Duc Thanh Only one week is left before official figures of Q1 foreign direct investment (FDI) are published, but several localities have already announced major successes. According to Binh Duong Department of Finance, the southern province has attracted over $630 million in FDI, representing a significant increase of 326 per cent compared to the same period in 2024. The figures cover 58 new projects with a total investment of $100 million, 26 with increased capital by around $452 million, and over 30 involving capital contributions for purchasing shares, amounting to $78 million. Up to now, Binh Duong has attracted around 4,460 foreign-invested projects with a total investment of over $42.5 billion. In 2025, the province strives to pull in about $2 billion in foreign capital. Binh Duong leaders said it continues to effectively exploit relationships with focal points in foreign markets by regularly connecting with promotional activities. At the same time, it continues to improve the investment environment with appropriate methods. Data released by the Foreign Investment Agency noted that the total registered FDI in Vietnam reached nearly $6.9 billion in the first two months of 2025, a strong 35.5 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Although the first two months of the year included the Lunar New Year holiday, investment promotion and licensing activities were remarkably bustling. The rise in the number of new ventures and the number with adjusted capital reaffirms that Vietnam remains a trusted market for foreign backers, Nguyen Van Toan, vice chairman of the Vietnam Association of Foreign-Invested Enterprises told VIR. With the current growth momentum, it is forecasted that by the end of March, the total registered foreign investment in Vietnam will reach over $9 billion, up 30 per cent from the same period last year, he added. Meanwhile, in the northern province of Bac Ninh, the province led the country by pulling in $1.44 billion in FDI across January and February, 3.8 times higher than the same period last year. Dong Nai province also saw positive signs in attracting FDI. Between January and February, the province lured $1.16 billion in foreign capital, signifying an increase of 325 per cent compared to the same period of the last year, and exceeding the $1.1 billion target for the entire year. Bui Anh Tuan, executive director of Asset and Logistics Management at Mapletree Vietnam, said the company has been putting money into Vietnam for nearly 20 years in various provinces. In 2025, we chose Dong Nai due to its favourable location, strong infrastructure, and proactive support from local authorities, which will help us complete and put the project into operation quickly, Tuan said. The company received aproval for Mapletree Logistics Park Tam An 1, located in the Tam An industrial cluster, with a total investment of over $100 million. The leader of one large foreign-invested enterprise told VIR, My corporation is planning to build a semiconductor manufacturing plant in Vietnam at a cost of billions of US dollars. If it comes to fruition, alongside the existing presence of Intel, Amkor, Infineon, Marvell, and HanaMicron, Vietnam could become a stronghold for the worlds semiconductor manufacturers. However, one of the leaders biggest concerns to impact their decision is Vietnams ability to ensure energy supply, which the government has been striving to address in recent times. With its numerous policies encouraging high-tech manufacturing and semiconductors, India is rapidly becoming one of Asia's most attractive destinations. According to Indias Ministry of Electronics and IT, the countrys technology sector is expected to reach $300 billion this year. Representatives from INTECH Group and the Vietnamese Embassy in India. Photo: INTECH Group INTECH Group's first undertaking in India was as the general contractor for cleanroom design and construction for a Samsung component supplier. This collaboration has helped INTECH Group gain a better understanding of the local market, improve its operational model, and establish partnerships. In March, INTECH Group participated in a series of events in New Delhi, including the 2025 Embedded Tech exhibition and a meeting with the Vietnamese Embassy, alongside a business delegation from the Vietnam Software and IT Services Association (VINASA). During the meeting, INTECH Group proposed the establishment of a business network in India, aiming to support Vietnamese businesses by fostering local understanding, connecting resources, and exploring opportunities. The network's aim would be to connect Vietnamese companies already present in the Indian market and share practical information on business culture, local procedures, regulations, while promoting trade, collaboration, and partnerships. Vietnam's Ambassador to India Nguyen Thanh Hai said, "I greatly appreciate INTECH Groups proactive approach as the Indian market offers numerous opportunities for Vietnamese companies. However, it is important to understand the local culture and legal frameworks." INTECH Groups booth at the Embedded Tech exhibition attracted numerous partners from India, highlighting the companys role in fostering industrial cooperation between the two countries. A networking event for Vietnamese and Indian businesses was also organised by INTECH with an open and friendly atmosphere. The event welcomed Bui Trung Thuong, Vietnams Trade Counsellor in India; Do Thi Thuy Huong, representative of Vietnam Electronic Industries Association; Do Thanh Binh, representative of VINASA, along with many other representatives of leading businesses. "We are happy to assist INTECH Group and other firms in building a strong Vietnamese business community in India," said Bui Trung Thuong. Photo: INTECH Group Expanding into the Indian market requires thorough preparation, in-depth market insights, and a commitment to long-term collaboration. As an active contributor to the industrial ecosystem, INTECH Group is seeking partners from Vietnam and India to maximise the potential of bilateral cooperation. Learn more about INTECH Group at: intechgroup.vn Hotline: +84 981 495 038 Email: contact@intechgroup.vn KCN Vietnam Group signs comprehensive partnership with VietinBank KCN Vietnam Group JSC and VietinBank signed a comprehensive partnership agreement on March 14, marking a significant milestone in their long-term partnership. RoboSense and LionsBot Announce Strategic Partnership RoboSense (2498.HK), have announced a strategic partnership, joining forces to enhance the visual perception capabilities of intelligent cleaning robots and expand multi-scenario applications. Front row from left: Lee Leong Seng, director of residential property development, Real Estate Division, Keppel Vietnam, and Ichiro Okazaki, general director, Takashimaya Interior Co., Ltd. These partnerships include Takashimaya Interior Limited, Menas Co., Ltd., Development of Victoria School System Co. Ltd, King Food Market Corporation, and Red Circle Co., Ltd. According to Lee Leong Seng, director of residential property development, Real Estate Division at Keppel Vietnam, these partnerships with aim to create dynamic spaces that cater to the evolving needs of communities. Through these collaborations, we will bring a diverse range of offerings, including home and living solutions, supermarkets, convenience stores, schools, and lifestyle amenities to Keppels residential developments in Vietnam. This will ensure that residents and visitors have easy access not just to daily essentials and services but also vibrant retail and lifestyle offerings, Seng said. Nguyen Duc Quynh, CEO of Menas Co., Ltd., said that with a diverse ecosystem that includes Mena Gourmet Market, restaurants, a culinary village, and the MenaWorld edutainment playground for children, Menas Group was ready to collaborate with Keppel to create premium living amenities. This partnership marks a significant step in the journey to build modern, dynamic, and cohesive communities within Keppel's projects, said Quynh. CELESTA City, a 6.2-hectare project jointly developed by Keppel and Phu Long, is strategically located along the Nguyen Huu Tho arterial thoroughfare, just a 20-minute drive from Ho Chi Minh City centre. As Saigon South transforms into a dynamic urban hub, CELESTA City is poised to become a symbol of modern living and a destination of choice for families and investors alike. Keppel is a global asset manager and operator with strong expertise in sustainability-related solutions spanning the areas of infrastructure, real estate, and connectivity. Headquartered in Singapore, Keppel operates in more than 20 countries worldwide, providing critical infrastructure and services for renewables, clean energy, decarbonisation, sustainable urban renewal and digital connectivity. Keppel creates value for investors and stakeholders through its quality investment platforms and diverse asset portfolios, including private funds and listed real estate and business trusts. Representatives of Keppel, CELESTA City, and partners planted trees for prosperity BCG Land and Keppel collaborate to elevate urban living On December 9, BCG Land JSC, a member of Bamboo Capital Group and Keppel Mall Management Co., Ltd. (Keppel), a subsidiary of Keppel Ltd, entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation in the retail sector. Keppel remains steadfast in Vietnamese real estate market Keppel has made its mark as a global asset manager and operator in infrastructure, real estate, and connectivity. Its real estate president for Vietnam, Joseph Low, shares with VIRs Quynh Chau the companys development plan for 2025 and beyond. Long Thanh International Airport is a key national project that has received particular attention from the government and the public. ATAD Steel Structure Corporation, the only unit in Vietnam's steel structure industry to achieve the Vietnam Value and the National Quality Gold Award, is responsible for the roof and steel structure of the Vietur joint venture, the contractor of the airport terminal. Long Thanh International Airport's roof steel structure The technical research, design, and solution were carried out by the ATAD engineering team for a year before construction started, ensuring the stability of the entire structure during the lifting process. Steel structure details supporting the roof lifting system ATAD and VSL engineers check the installation of the lifting jack To ensure accuracy and safety, ATAD's engineering team closely coordinated with experts from VSL Group. The roof weighs more than 5,300 tonnes, assembled from 256 connection points meeting European standards. The roof has a curved arch covering nearly 20,000 square metres, with a cantilever extending 41m outwards. The entire structure was lifted using 56 specialised hydraulic jacks, each capable of supporting loads from 40 to 330 tonnes. In addition, the contractor applied advanced load monitoring, lifting, and planning simulation software, while using 3D scanning technology to ensure accuracy. Controlling the connection dimensions, deformation tolerances, and thermal expansion of the steel structure was performed with absolute precision using specialised equipment. The steel dome is considered the heart of Long Thanh International Airport To ensure the progress of the passenger terminal, the lifting of the steel structure was extremely important. It is a symbol of the technical progress made in the Vietnamese construction industry," said the Ministry of Construction. Kanematsu Corporation officially becomes strategic shareholder of ATAD ATAD Steel Structure Corporation, a leading steel structure company in Vietnam, has announced that from April 2021, Japans Kanematsu Corporation has completed transaction procedures and officially became the companys strategic shareholder. Incheon International Airport expands operation to Vietnam The Incheon International Airport Corporation announced on August 8 that it has been selected as a prioritised contractor for the project on consulting services for operation of Vietnam's new Long Thanh International Airport. This is according to Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc at a meeting with representatives from Intel Corporation on April 2, led by Sarah Kemp, vice president in charge of International Government Relations. "The ministry is committed to providing the maximum support for Intels high-tech projects in Vietnam. The ministry also supports Intels collaborations and assistance in innovation, entrepreneurship, and the promotion of semiconductor technology and AI," said Ngoc. "The Foreign Investment Agency has been assigned as the focal point to guide investment procedures and the National Innovation Centre as the coordinator to work with Intel in implementing initiatives and activities to encourage the innovation ecosystem in Vietnam," she added. Kemp provided updates on Intel's operations in Vietnam and its collaborations and support for the NIC in 2025 and spoke highly of the government's recent policies, such as the Investment Support Fund. "We greatly appreciate the recent government policies, such as the Investment Support Fund, which includes several provisions to assist businesses in the high-tech sector. We expect to study these policies further to implement specific ventures," said Kemp. Intel Vietnam was established in 2006 and has invested in and built a local supply network with over 600 partners. It has invested more than $1.5 billion in Vietnam and continues to expand its investment by upgrading factories and applying new technology. Intel Vietnam plays a significant role in the group's global value chain, and to date, the US tech giant has invested $1.5 billion here, with between 60-and-70 per cent of Intel's semiconductor products sold globally assembled, tested, and packaged in Vietnam. EIB and SBV deepen green finance cooperation to support energy transition The European Investment Bank (EIB), the financing arm of the European Union, and the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) on March 12 announced commitments to deepening their cooperation on sustainable finance through technical assistance under the EIBs Greening Financial Systems (GFS) programme. Ministry of Finance to encourage AI and semiconductor R&D Vietnam holds great potential for businesses from all over the world who wish to invest in the semiconductor and AI industries, according to Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Tam. Tech giants aim high with focused strategies for 2025 Major players in the information communication technology and consumer electronics (ICT and CE) market are aiming high in 2025 by building on the back of their 2024 performances with distinct growth strategies. Ministry of Finance and World Bank discuss new ODA-funded projects Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang met with Mariam Sherman, World Bank division director for Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in Hanoi on March 21 to discuss upcoming projects using official development assistance (ODA). The event, organised by the Ministry of Finance in collaboration with Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee, gathered over 400 domestic and international financial leaders and experts to discuss how the city can develop an international financial centre (IFC), learning from other international models while retaining the citys own unique identity. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in strategy consulting and leadership in the financial services industry in Asia, including five years as CEO of Techcombank, Lottner was able to provide high-value insights and practical suggestions to guide the development of Vietnams first IFC. Lottner highlighted three areas where Vietnam could excel. The first is green finance, as Vietnam is one of the few industrialised countries with the potential to meet all its national energy needs from renewable sources. To achieve this ambitious goal, Vietnam will need to significantly increase in investment in green infrastructure and expand its deployment of green finance. The second strength, according to Lottner, is digital financial services. In Vietnam, one in three people owns digital assets or cryptocurrencies. He emphasised Vietnams vast potential to develop digital financial products, including real digital assets, asset tokenisation, and digital currencies. Businesses are increasingly adopting these technologies, and their practical needs will drive innovation in the digital finance sector. The third area is trade finance. Lottner stated that this is a rapidly growing field that could be entirely reimagined through technology. Vietnam is poised to become a smart manufacturing hub, with significant investments in AI from major corporations like Foxconn. We can easily envision a world where every product, such as an iPad, can be tracked from the assembly line to delivery using blockchain technology. This would integrate all related financial information seamlessly into the supply chain without additional procedures, Lottner noted. These three areas currently lack dominant financial centres and Lottner believes Vietnam has the right conditions - practical demand, a talented workforce, and intellectual potential - to develop capabilities in these sectors as part of an IFC. At the conference, local and foreign experts acknowledged the critical role of financial institutions and banks in operating an IFC in Vietnam. During the third discussion session on positioning Vietnams financial centre, Lottner shared his perspectives on the opportunities and challenges for domestic banks in the process of building a successful IFC in Vietnam. He highlighted that establishing an IFC in Vietnam presents significant opportunities for domestic banks like Techcombank. "Beyond specific legal frameworks regulated by the State Bank of Vietnam and relevant authorities, domestic banks would need to upgrade their standards and integrate international payment transactions to meet new requirements like Basel III and IRF9," Lottner said. "These enhancements would require increased investment in building internal capabilities aligned with international standards, a strategy that Techcombank has embarked on over the last four years." Lottner also noted that the formation of an IFC in Vietnam could enable domestic banks and businesses to secure foreign syndicated loans locally instead of abroad. This would open doors for domestic banks to mobilise large resources of capital to fund business operations and growth, he added. He also highlighted opportunities to apply blockchain in unified financial management, as Techcom Securities - Techcombanks brokerage subsidiary - is already carrying out. The use of latest technologies, like blockchain, would serve to enhance the operation of a new IFC. Lottner added that the lender is pursuing a wealthtech strategy, pioneering the use of blockchain and smart contracts in bond issuance, transaction management, and corporate bond ownership for Vietnamese clients. These efforts will contribute to shaping IFC products and services, he said. Vietnam seeks UK expertise in financial centre development Vietnam is keen to draw on the United Kingdoms experience in structuring and managing financial centres as it moves forward with plans to establish international finance hubs in Ho Chi Minh City and Danang, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh said. Golden opportunity for Vietnam to build International Financial Centre A stable macroeconomy and an increasingly improving investment environment have given Vietnam a golden opportunity to position itself in the global financial centre chain, according to experts at a conference held on March 28 in Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnamese tourists dive with sardines in Panglao, Bohol, Philippines in September 2024. (Photo: Thien Nguyen Ngoc) Hanoi - The online travel platform Agoda has just released the results of its 2025 Diving Deals survey, revealing trends among diving enthusiasts across Asia. The survey was conducted in 11 key tourism markets in the region, with a focus on Southeast Asia. Across Asia, Indonesia takes the top spot as the most popular diving destination, followed by the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam. These countries boast unique marine treasures, attracting divers from all over the world. Thailand was voted by Vietnamese travellers as the top diving paradise, thanks to its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine ecosystem and world-class dive sites. Beyond Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines are also among the most favoured destinations for Vietnamese divers, reflecting a growing interest in exploring the underwater world. The report also highlights that underwater relaxation is the biggest inspiration for diving enthusiasts. Nearly 30 per cent of survey participants said they dive to experience the calm and tranquility of the vast ocean. This trend is particularly popular among travellers from the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand. Additionally, the passion for exploring the underwater world is another major motivation, with 24 per cent of travellers drawn to the mystical beauty and rich marine ecosystem. Scuba diving enthusiasts tend to seek affordable accommodations, but are willing to spend more on underwater experiences. 40 per cent of respondents said they are ready to pay 15 to 30 per cent more for diving trips compared to regular vacations. Short trips are becoming a trend in scuba diving tourism, with 48 per cent of travellers preferring trips lasting between four and seven days. Weekend diving trips are also gaining popularity, with 40 per cent of surveyed participants choosing this option. This reflects the growing demand for short yet fulfilling experiences, catering to the fast-paced lifestyle of modern travellers. Coral reefs remain the top diving destination, with 75 per cent of diving enthusiasts prioritising reef locations for their ocean explorations. With its diverse marine ecosystem and vibrant coral reefs, Asia continues to be a must-visit destination for diving lovers. Ta Hoang Linh, (standing) director general of MoITs Foreign Market Development Department at the MoIT press conference on April 4 The call was made by Minister of Industry and Trade, Nguyen Hong Dien, through an official diplomatic note sent on April 3, shortly after the US administration announced the new tariff measures, which are scheduled to take effect on April 9. At a press conference held on April 4, Ta Hoang Linh, director general of the MoITs Foreign Market Development Department, reaffirmed the ministrys regret over the US decision, stressing that the two economies are fundamentally complementary in nature. "Vietnamese products exported to the US primarily compete with goods from third countries, rather than with American producers. These exports also provide US consumers with more affordable options," said Linh. According to MoIT, the Vietnamese government has made considerable efforts to support US businesses operating in Vietnam. These include resolving regulatory challenges, facilitating market access, and reducing the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) import tariff. Under a recent decree, 13 product groups from the US now benefit from reduced MFN rates, contributing to a current average import tariff of 9.4 per cent. In addition, multiple US-invested projects in Vietnam have received attention from relevant authorities, with support provided to address operational difficulties and facilitate smoother project implementation. Despite these measures, the US has justified the imposition of tariffs as part of broader efforts to address global trade imbalances, bolster domestic manufacturing, and strengthen economic security. According to a statement from the White House, the tariffs will remain in place until it determines that trade deficits and unfair practices have been adequately addressed. Minister Diens diplomatic outreach to Washington includes an upcoming phone call with his US counterpart, as well as technical-level discussions with representatives of the United States Trade Representative. "While the tariff measure poses significant concerns, both sides still have the opportunity to engage in negotiations and reach a solution that safeguards the interests of all parties involved," Linh said. Vietnam has set an ambitious export growth target of 12 per cent for 2025, equivalent to approximately $450 billion in total export turnover. This objective is underpinned by the countrys extensive network of 17 free trade agreements (FTAs) covering over 60 economies and more than 70 bilateral cooperation frameworks. However, the MoIT acknowledged that if a solution with the US cannot be reached, the new tariff measure could negatively impact this objective. Nevertheless, the ministry confirmed that such a scenario had been anticipated, and corresponding policy responses are already in place, including a detailed action plan and guidance for domestic enterprises. The ministry underscored the importance of accelerating export market diversification to reduce overreliance on the US market, which currently accounts for 30 per cent of Vietnams total export value despite representing only 13 per cent of global import demand. "Vietnam still has vast potential to tap into the remaining 87 per cent of the global market," read a statement from the MoIT, adding that efforts will continue to expand trade relations with emerging economies in the Middle East, Latin America, Central Asia, and other dynamic markets. To support this strategy, Vietnam will push forward with FTA negotiations, enhance trade promotion activities, and improve logistics infrastructure to reduce costs and increase competitiveness. The country will also expand its network of overseas trade offices to provide stronger support for Vietnamese exporters. In parallel, the MoIT advised local businesses to improve product quality, adhere to technical and environmental standards, ensure traceability and compliance with rules of origin, and prevent trade circumvention and origin fraud. The MoIT has also called for strengthening the national trade defence capacity. Businesses are encouraged to enhance their understanding of foreign trade remedy measures and proactively participate in training and information-sharing activities. In the longer term, Vietnam aims to build a more resilient and innovation-driven export economy by restructuring its industrial base and fostering technological advancement. "A sustainable export model must be grounded not only in manufacturing, but also in science, innovation, and supply chain diversification," according to the MoIT. By implementing a comprehensive set of policy responses and industry-specific solutions, the ministry is confident that Vietnam can weather trade uncertainties and maintain its export momentum in 2025 and beyond. archives 29 Jun - 6 Jul (2) 22 Jun - 29 Jun (4) 15 Jun - 22 Jun (1) 8 Jun - 15 Jun (3) 1 Jun - 8 Jun (4) 25 May - 1 Jun (5) 18 May - 25 May (2) 11 May - 18 May (3) 4 May - 11 May (2) 27 Apr - 4 May (5) 20 Apr - 27 Apr (1) 13 Apr - 20 Apr (2) 30 Mar - 6 Apr (5) 23 Mar - 30 Mar (2) 9 Mar - 16 Mar (1) 2 Mar - 9 Mar (2) 16 Feb - 23 Feb (3) 9 Feb - 16 Feb (1) 2 Feb - 9 Feb (3) 26 Jan - 2 Feb (2) 12 Jan - 19 Jan (1) 5 Jan - 12 Jan (1) 22 Dec - 29 Dec (1) 15 Dec - 22 Dec (2) 8 Dec - 15 Dec (1) 24 Nov - 1 Dec (1) 17 Nov - 24 Nov (4) 10 Nov - 17 Nov (2) 3 Nov - 10 Nov (1) 27 Oct - 3 Nov (4) 20 Oct - 27 Oct (4) 13 Oct - 20 Oct (1) 6 Oct - 13 Oct (1) 29 Sep - 6 Oct (1) 22 Sep - 29 Sep (1) 15 Sep - 22 Sep (1) 18 Aug - 25 Aug (5) 4 Aug - 11 Aug (2) 21 Jul - 28 Jul (6) 7 Jul - 14 Jul (3) 30 Jun - 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24 Aug (9) 10 Aug - 17 Aug (5) North Wales Police commissioner shares bowel cancer health scare to raise awareness This article is old - Published: Friday, Apr 4th, 2025 North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin has signed up as a Bowel Cancer Awareness Champion after undergoing a bowel cancer screening which revealed potentially serious results. The former Flintshire County Councillor, from Connahs Quay, turned 50 in January and received a screening kit in the post shortly after. Sharing his story publicly, Mr Dunbobbin said he had no hesitation in completing the test and urged others to do the same. Some do it, some dontI did, and Im so glad I did, he wrote in a social media post. About 10 days later, I got a letter: traces of blood were found. No hesitation, I called and got the ball rolling. Following the result, Mr Dunbobbin had a blood test and underwent a colonoscopy at Wrexham Maelor Hospital in mid-March, where six polyps were removed for screening. Thankfully, the polyps were benign, but he will now require regular check-ups every three years. Reflecting on the experience, he said: This isnt a pity postIm sharing to raise awareness. If you get one of these kits, do it. Its quick, easy, and could be life-saving. He said the experience had reminded him of the loss of loved ones to cancer, including his father and mother-in-law. But he was determined to face the situation head-on and has since committed to spreading awareness. This has resulted in me signing up to be a Bowel Cancer Awareness Championhence my lengthy and hopefully helpful post. So, if youre turning 50 or have a kit gathering dustdo the test. It could make all the difference, he added. April marks Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, with Bowel Cancer UK encouraging people to talk about symptoms, share facts, and help others understand the importance of early detection. The charity says bowel cancer is the UKs fourth most common cancer, with nearly 44,000 people diagnosed each year. More than nine out of ten new cases are in people over 50, but younger people are also affected. The charity says that more than 16,800 people in the UK die from bowel cancer annually, but survival rates are improving thanks to earlier diagnosis and better treatments. When diagnosed at its earliest stage, over 90% of people survive. A spokesperson for Bowel Cancer UK said: They say knowledge is power, so this April were asking everyone to share important information about bowel cancer. Will you help #PassItOn? Bowel cancer often begins with non-cancerous growths called polyps, which can be removed before they develop further. Screening tests aim to detect these signs early, even before symptoms appear. If symptoms are present, people are encouraged to speak to their GP and not wait for a routine test. Mr Dunbobbin said he hopes sharing his experience will encourage others to act. After a wobble, I was determined to face it head-on This marks the start of something positive. Pupil numbers set to be reduced at three Wrexham primary schools This article is old - Published: Friday, Apr 4th, 2025 Pupil numbers at three Wrexham primary schools look set to be reduced from September 2026. It comes after a statutory consultation concluded on proposals to lessen the intake at Acton Park CP, Wats Dyke CP and Barkers Lane CP. Executive board members are expected to rubber stamp plans publish statutory notices detailing the changes at a meeting on Tuesday, 8 April. Wrexham Council unveiled plans in 2024 to reduce the Published Admission Numbers (PAN) at the three schools following a drop in pupil enrolment. It comes amid a declining birth rate and a 20.9% surplus capacity in Wrexhams primary education sector. Current projections show that pupil numbers across Wrexham are likely to decrease further in the coming years meaning the proportion of surplus places across the county will continue to increase. In May 2024 all primary schools across the county were approached by the local authority about reducing pupil numbers, with Acton Park CP, Wats Dyke CP and Barkers Lane CP agreeing to press ahead with the PAN changes. The intake numbers planned for the three schools are as follows: A reduction in PAN at Acton Park CP from 60 to 30. A reduction in PAN at Wats Dyke CP from 45 to 30. A reduction in PAN at Barkers Lane CP from 45 to 30 Under the proposals Acton Park CP would see the biggest reduction in PAN. A report due before the executive board next week notes that the drop in pupil enrolment is impacting the schools ability to plan and staff classes. In addition, pupil forecasts up to 2029 are projecting a continuing trend of a reduction in numbers on roll at all three schools. Speaking at a media briefing this week, Cllr Phil Wynn, lead member for education, said: It is causing financial concerns for certain schools at the moment, particularly these three, simply because there has been a significant drop off in the birth rate in Wrexham. Were envisaging that the surplus places will continue to grow. In the report, it does explain that there has been a track record over the last three years of the admission numbers at nursery and reception dropping off to the point that there is a strong justification. Very few responses were received during the consultation period, with just a handful of participants putting their views forward. Estyn said the proposals are unlikely to impact the standard of education provision and outcomes in the school. The NASUWT union said that whilst it does not object to the plans, it warned that they could indirectly lead to a redundancy/loss of livelihood situation. 14 responses were made regarding Acton Park CP, with a majority either unsure or against the proposed changes. 25 people responded to the planned changes at Wats Dyke CP school, with a majority agreeing with the proposed that had been put forward. A majority of the 14 respondents were in favour of the reduction in PAN at Barkers Lane, with five saying that they were uncertain about the changes. Feedback also included criticism from parents, who questioned why the council had pressed ahead with extending the school despite the drop in pupil numbers being known at the time. Cllr Wynn said: It just shows how the world changes so rapidly. At the time there was an expectation that the pressures on city centre primary schools was there, but thats just very quickly fallen away, particularly after COVID. It was 100% Welsh Government funding for that extension. It was just a grant that was available at the time that just married up with that expectation for the planning of school placements in the city centre. With funding for schools reliant on the number of pupils on roll, we asked Cllr Wynn if the declining student numbers are likely to impact the monies allocated from the Welsh Government. He said: The Welsh Government has signed off on our sustainable schools, community schools programme, thats 100 million that they are committed to contributing towards. I wouldnt expect the falling birth rate to actually affect the Welsh Governments commitment to ensuring that children actually enjoy their education in a school thats fit for the 21st century. The report will go before executive board members on Tuesday, 8 April at 10:30am. The meeting will also be webcast on the Wrexham Council website. Weve Won Democracy wins the day say campaigners as Welsh Government refused LDP appeal by Supreme Court and ordered to pay costs This article is old - Published: Friday, Apr 4th, 2025 The UK Supreme Court has refused to allow the Welsh Governments appeal regarding Wrexham Councils controversial Local Development Plan. In a short decision notice the Court said, Permission to appeal be REFUSED because the application does not raise an arguable point of law. Costs are also ordered to be paid by Welsh Government to Cllr Marc Jones. Just before Christmas Wrexham councillor Marc Jones won a landmark Court of Appeal judgement against Wrexham County Borough Council as a corporate entity, the Welsh Ministers, and a range of housing developers over Wrexhams Local Development Plan (LDP) the new ruling effectively means that stands as a final decision and is the end of the road for that legal avenue on that argument. Cllr Jones was the named person on the court documents, but the action was effectively taken as part of a cross party trio of councillors, Cllrs Hugh Jones and Cllr Mark Pritchard supported by around 28 councillors. As readers will have been long following, the LDP has been a thorny issue with multiple fraught votes against the plan being adopted in the Guildhall chamber but it was finally adopted. The now firm legal decision dismissed a judicial review and effectively said Wrexham councillors did not actually have to adopt the LDP (the vote saw a boycott from councillors), and the previous votes against it were not unlawful. This now creates a pickle locally where a Local Development Plan is adopted and in place, however the process of getting it to that point was likely not the democratic will of a majority of local councillors if they had stayed in the chamber and voted it down. Today Campaigners said, The judgement means that the plan, which included allocating greenfield sites for thousands of new houses, is effectively quashed. Its a significant victory for Wrexham councillors who refused to adopt the plan and were taken to the High Court by seven major housing developers. There appears to be a desire from some councillors to now unadopt the LDP, however how that process takes place is unclear. There is a requirement to prepare such a local development plan, but once again the local authority is in unchartered waters on what happens no, and if a reversal of previous adoptions is possible, and if so would Welsh Government now step in and impose the plan. Cllr Marc Jones said: This latest legal challenge was the last chance for the Labour Government. Thats now failed and they have to accept that Wrexham councillors had a legal right to vote they way they did. The past two years of legal challenges initiated by the developers and stretched out further by the Welsh Government has been very time consuming and difficult. It could all have been avoided if the Welsh Government had made a decision in April 2023 rather than hide behind the developers legal challenge. They wasted tens of thousands of public money on this legal challenge while councillors have had to risk everything and fund the appeal court hearing themselves. Now its time to draw a line under this and ensure we have a plan that works for Wrexham. Were calling on the Government to start talking to the council urgently. Council Leader Mark Pritchard said, Weve Won. Democracy wins the day. I want to say to everyone who supported the campaign is a big thank you to you all. The elected Councillors, companies and members of the public who gave generous contributions to fight for democracy in Wrexham. Its been extremely difficult and exhausting at times taking on senior officers civil servants and the Welsh Government. Also the individual who where involved in the witch hunt against myself and elected members need to stop and apologise for their behaviour. Democracy is well and truly alive in Wrexham Lead Member for Strategic Planning and Public Protection Councillor Hugh Jones said In the light of the Supreme Courts decision to refuse the Welsh Ministers application for permission to appeal we intend to consider our current position in relation to the LDP in the coming days with a view to agreeing the way forward. Welsh Government have been approached for comment, but with no reply as of time of writing. A man from Dayton was arrested today after a report of child abuse was called in by the child's school. The Lyon County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to the school in Dayton this morning. When deputies arrived, they learned that a student had showed up for school with severe blunt force injuries all over their body. The victim was assessed by medical personnel and brought to the hospital. During their investigation, officials learned that the victim has been beaten the night before by a parent. Deputies then found and arrested the father of the child, 40-year old Saul Gallegos-Duron. Nevada Child and Family Services stepped in to assist and make sure the children in the home were relocated to a safe location. Gallegos-Duron has a bail set of $75,000. If you have information regarding this case, call Deputy M. McCullough or Sgt. Julie Redmond at (775) 463-6600, and refer to case #25LY01292. Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford is joining a coalition of 16 other attorneys general on suing the Trump administration over cuts to research funding. Specifically, the suit focuses on what it calls an "unlawful attempt to disrupt grant funding issued by the National Institutes of Health." The lawsuit says that the administration's delays in reviewing NIH grant applications and termination of already-issued grants is unreasonable. According to a release from AG Ford, as a result of the administration's delays and terminations, the plaintiff states allege that their research institutions have experienced significant harm. Using UNLV as an example, the statement points out that three NIH grants for the college were terminated recently, which resulted in researchers losing around $2.4 million in grant money. The suit is being led by attorneys general from Massachusetts, California, Maryland and Washington, and is joined by Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island and Wisconsin. Bar Brucato may have been built by amaro, but dont expect red-checked tablecloths and straw-bottomed bottles at the Mission Districts new distillery, tasting room, and restaurant. For the makers of this line of typically Italian liqueurs, the long road from stockroom to storefront started in the bel paese, but its roots run deep through the Golden State. Raw concrete walls and wood finishings highlight the bar's spartan design. (David Dines) Named after the founder of San Franciscos first farmers market, Brucato Amaro has been keeping things bitter in the Bay since 2018, when founders Sierra and James Clark began producing a trio of local, small-batch alternatives to long-established European amari like Nonino and the citys beloved Fernet-Branca. Seven years later, the enterprise has proven successful enough to merit expansion into a public-facing venue, set to open on April 10th at 275 South Van Ness Avenue. First meeting in New York City, where Sierra was completing a Ph.D. in the politics and production of American whisky, the two Californians took a detour to Washington, D.C., where James worked in federal finance for the U.S. Treasury under the Obama Administration, before returning to the West Coast. Yet it was on a bocce court near Italys Adriatic Coast, where the seed for Brucato Amaro was first planted. [The court] was always filled with local old men sipping amaro, playing bocce, and talking about life, Sierra recalls of their brief residence in Italy. Often stopping for a snack and a sip, the Carmel native marveled at amaros ability to reflect the local terroir and savored the sense of community she came to associate with it. James, hailing from Oroville, was eager to return to their home state and, considering his wifes background, saw amaros rare potential to help make the most of that transition. Bar Brucato's new dining room and bar. (David Dines) Landing in San Francisco and initially operating out of a 400-square-foot facility in SoMa, the Clarks drew inspiration from the hyper-regionalspirit of their Italian counterparts. They infused a neutral grape brandy base with native and characteristic ingredients to paint three distinct California landscapes: Chaparral, which drinks like a rounder, mintier genepi and prominently features yerba santa and California bay laurel to recall the coastal foothills; Woodlands, which leverages elderberry, cocoa, and fig to evoke foggy mornings among the live oaks and is a velvety, earthy sipper to pair with biscotti or use in cocktails; and Orchards, an Aperol-beating bitter which boasts more depth and a hint more spice than the industrial aperitivo, placing dried apricot, walnut, and Meyer lemon center stage to elicit images of springtime picnics in the Central Valley. Over time, their three offerings have carved out a niche on the top shelf among amaro aficionados, earning hardware from the Bartender Spirit Awards, San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and the USA Spirits Ratings, among others. Now betting the house on Bar Brucato, the Clarks hope their bitter empire can be a springboard to the kind of community spirit they first encountered in Italy. It wont be easy. Heck, it hasnt been easy. Since the closure of Mission Bays Seven Stills three years ago, Brucato's relatively small, 6,000-square-foot space now holds the distinction of being the only operational, public-facing distillery in the citya lack of competition that comes as little surprise, considering the myriad hurdles unique to producing and serving a spirit that is as drinkable as it is flammable. Octopus confit and an amaro highball are two tastes of Bar Brucato's California-inspired offerings. (David Dines) From permitting to plumbing to fire safety protocol, these challenges would be considerable for even the most experienced bar owners, let alone those making their debut. To help them overcome these obstaclesand those to comethe Clarks have surrounded themselves with a motley crew of local industry veterans who have surely seen it all. Architect Samatha Buckley of Studio BBA (Mamahuhu, Tartine) was charged with revamping the former headquarters of Double Rainbow Ice Cream. The multi-story space straddles the line between utilitarian and organic, mirroring the nothing to hide ethos to which the Clarks aspire. Brutalist beton brut walls flaunt stains and sediment from the buildings past, while expansive skylights and front-facing windows flood the zone with natural light, illuminating warm wood furnishings, varigated green glazed tile, and an abundance of foliage. In the kitchen, executive chef Chris Chip King (Merchant Roots, Kin Khao, Maum) designed the menu to honor the memory of John Brucato, with rotating farmers market-driven plates and ingredients sourced from San Francisco producers like Flannery Beef. Fresh pastasan uncommon constant on the menucome courtesy of Giustos flour. Like the amari, King's dishes blur the line between the Mediterranean and the Pacific, from sunchoke toast with pecorino and saba (a sweet, balsamic-like condiment made from grape must and walnut) to braised octopus confit with Chaparral amaro-tomato glaze and chermoula (a Middle Eastern marinade similar to chimichurri). Brucato Amaro's Orchard (David Dines) At the still and behind the bar, distillery director Brandon Conley (formerly of Cleveland Whisky) offers an inventive, amaro-focused cocktail list featuring atypical originals like the deceptively light, herbaceous Friend Place (Chaparral, gin, orgeat, and lime) and the extra-bitter Bully Choop Spritz (Woodlands, Seville orange aperitif, Kirschwasser, lambrusco, and soda), alongside plenty of alternatives for those who arent so bitterly inclined. With Adam Timney (co-founder of Starbelly) on board as director of operations, Bar Brucato promises to have plenty more in store moving forward. Imminent releases include a kumquat-infused triple sec, a London dry-style gin made in the in-house still, and a fourth amaro steeped in artichoke and fenugreek that will nod to Castroville and the surrounding Salinas Valley. Expanded lunch service, distillery tours and tastings, and a calendar of culinary courses also loom on the horizon. In today's world [so] many experiences take place virtually," says Sierra. "It is increasingly difficult to find what is true and honest. [With Bar Brucato], we wanted to have a real place where guests can physically see, touch, smell, and taste what we are making. // Open Wednesday through Sunday from 4pm to 9pm; 275 South Van Ness Avenue (Mission), barbrucato.com After a long day, whats more refreshing than a frosty glass of beer? The only problem is, as we get older, our bodies start to react differently to booze. We get drunk faster, the hangovers become more intense, and its just generally not as much fun. It can also be unhealthy if done to excess, which is why the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults 65 and older limit their alcohol consumption to one drink per day, and no more than seven drinks per week. Pace yourself with drinking beer when you get older, says Kenneth Koncilja, M.D., an internal medicine physician at Cleveland Clinic. The effects of binge drinking are worse in late life. Members only The sad fact is, age and alcohol dont mix. But that doesnt mean you have to give up beer forever. We asked three beer sommeliers yes, thats an actual career to recommend their favorite beers for older adults. Not just beer thats less likely to leave you feeling sluggish and gross the next day, but beers that taste delicious, are designed for sipping rather than gulping, and might even offer some health benefits. If you want to celebrate National Beer Day on April 7 but would rather avoid the splitting headache tomorrow, weve got just the tasting menu for you. Look to local breweries for the freshest beers possible, says Matt Simpson, a beer sommelier in Atlanta. Noah Fecks I want a beer with the freshest ingredients You cant go wrong with a craft beer made by your neighborhood brewery. Craft beers are usually made locally, so they dont need to travel very far, says Matt Simpson, a beer sommelier from Atlanta. Youre getting the freshest product possible. Most craft beers are made with malted barley, which may support digestive health and may promote healthy cholesterol levels, as well as high contents of phenolic compounds, which are antioxidants found in plant-based food and beverages that may improve digestion, brain function and blood sugar levels. Theyve got more flavor, more character, and if you get the right styles, theyre not as overpowering, Simpson says. If you dont live near a craft brewery, Simpson suggests shopping for smaller-batch beers. What to try: Kirkland Lager, distributed by Costco and made by Deschutes Brewery in Bend, Oregon one of the best craft breweries in the world, Simpson says. Or try Prima Pils from Victory Brewing Company in Pennsylvania, and United Craft Lager from the New Realm Brewing Company in Atlanta. These low-calories brews wont have you reaching for the aspirin tomorrow. Noah Fecks I want a beer that tastes great without the hangover It can sometimes seem like the only options are low-calorie/low-alcohol beers that taste like water, or more flavorful beers that have a high enough ABV (alcohol by volume) level to knock you on your butt. The trick is to find something with an ABV of 6 percent or under, but it still has enough interesting flavor and character without becoming overpowering, Simpson says. Its what we old-timers in the industry call beer-flavored beers. An India Pale Ale, or IPA, is perfect for those who want a beer rich in flavor and full of nutrients. Because theyre high in hop and malt content, theyve also got lots of naturally occurring antioxidants called polyphenols. These compounds give the beer its flavor and color, but they also have a host of cardiovascular benefits. Thats the good news. The bad news is that most IPAs are super boozy. They tend to run between 6 and 7.5 percent alcohol, says Cliff Mori, a sommelier and owner of BREW-ed in Asheville, North Carolina. He suggests trying a hazy IPA, a style of India Pale Ale characterized by low bitterness, a cloudy appearance and fruity flavors. It has all the great flavors but a little less punch, Mori says. Car and home customers have seen significant savings of over 100 million in the past year due to reductions in the cost insurers charge to pay in instalments driven by increasing competition and regulatory pressure, according to new data from Consumer Intelligence. Analysis by Consumer Intelligence, which tracks consumer insurance costs through its Insurance Behaviour Tracker, shows the average total instalment cost on top of paying in a lump sum has fallen significantly to 10.1% from 11.3% in the past year. Consumer Intelligence is urging consumers and providers to focus on the Total Instalment Cost (TIC) instead of APRs, which can be much higher. It warns that vulnerable customers are particularly at risk of being misled. Its Consumer Intelligence Behaviour Tracker monitors the reported cost of insurance customers pay for car and home cover, and they track the difference between paying in a lump sum and instalments. Average premiums for both have started to fall recently, but price rises in the past have meant millions of drivers and homeowners have switched to instalments. Consumer Intelligence data shows that the number of people using instalments for motor insurance has risen from 25% - around 7.5 million vehicles in late 2021 - to 42% - around 12.6 million vehicles by late 2024. Home contents and buildings insurance increased from 31%5.8 million homesto 46%8.62 million homes during the same period. Car insurance customers now pay an average of just 10.1% extra, down from 11.3% last year. Paying by instalments saves consumers approximately 82.4 million, or 6.54 per insured vehicle annually. Similarly, home insurance instalment costs fell from 9.1% to 8.1%, resulting in savings of nearly 24 million, or approximately 2.78 per household. UK consumers are saving around 106.3 million per year due to these changes. To continue educating consumers and insurers on instalment payments' true costs and benefits, Consumer Intelligence has declared April as "APR Awareness Month." This campaign aims to correct common misconceptions around Annual Percentage Rates (APR) and emphasise the importance of looking at the Total Instalment Cost (TIC) instead. Ian Hughes, CEO of Consumer Intelligence, said: "Focusing solely on APR can mislead consumers, particularly vulnerable customers who rely heavily on instalment payments. APR Awareness Month will clarify the real costs and encourage insurers to keep instalment charges transparent and fair. With Consumer Duty regulations coming this summer, the industry and consumers must understand these distinctions clearly." Throughout April, Consumer Intelligence will release a series of insights into deposits, instalment options, credit availability, and overall affordability. At the end of the month, a comprehensive report summarising key findings will be published. Consumers and insurers seeking immediate insights can contact Consumer Intelligence directly for detailed information on where their insurance instalment charges stand within the market. What happens when a biscuit with Chocolate over Chocolate over Chocolate meets the creativity of dessert lovers across the country? A whole new way to indulge! Britannia Bourbon is redefining dessert innovation with BourbonITIndias first-ever AI-powered recipe platform, powered by Google Geminis multimodal capabilities. Designed to unlock creativity, the platform has inspired over 28,000 unique recipe submissions, proving that Britannia Bourbon isnt just a biscuitits the perfect ingredient for extraordinary recipes. To take this journey of indulgence to the next level, Britannia Bourbon is thrilled to welcome the celebrated pastry chef and entrepreneur Pooja Dhingra as its Chief Tasting Officer. In this role, she will handpick five winning Bourbon-inspired recipes and bring them to life. From Bourbon-infused modaks to fusion cheesecakes, these imaginative recipes will be transformed into stunning creations by Pooja herself, showcasing the endless possibilities of this beloved biscuit. Adding to the excitement, the five grand prize winners, whose recipes Pooja will recreate, will embark on an exclusive trip to Switzerland, while 20 more lucky participants will take home an iPhone. Speaking on the success of the campaign, Siddharth Gupta, General Manager Marketing, Britannia Industries, said, Britannia Bourbon has always stood for indulgence, and BourbonIT has amplified that experience by putting consumer creativity at its heart. The response has been phenomenal, with thousands of dessert lovers across the country reimagining Bourbon in ways we never imagined. Having Pooja Dhingra join us as Chief Tasting Officer brings an exciting new dimension to the campaign. Her expertise in crafting exquisite desserts will inspire even more creativity, and we cant wait to see her bring these winning recipes to life. Pooja Dhingra, sharing her enthusiasm for the association, said, Desserts are all about creativity, and the BourbonIT platform has shown us just how innovative dessert lovers can be! Ive been blown away by the incredible ideas people have come up with using Britannia Bourbon, and Im excited to recreate the top five winning recipes. This is a celebration of indulgence, imagination, and the love for chocolatey goodness! So, whether youre a baking pro or just someone who loves a good chocolatey treat, get readybecause Britannia Bourbon and Pooja Dhingra are about to serve up some serious dessert magic. The ovens preheated, the chocolates melting and the most indulgent Bourbon creations are about to hit your screens. Stay tunedits going to be delicious! Also Read: Britannia, Google Cloud, & WPP launch BourbonIT for a playful recipe twist REA Group announced that Dhruv Agarwala has decided to step down as CEO REA India after 14 years with the business. REA India is the owner of Housing.com - Indias No. 1 Real Estate App and PropTiger.com - digital real estate transaction and advisory platform. Mr Agarwala co-founded PropTiger in 2011 before REA Group acquired a controlling interest in 2020, following its initial investment in 2017. Mr. Agarwala led the successful acquisition of Housing.com and played a central role in the integration of this platform. Under his leadership, Housing.com has grown into a leader in digital property, used by millions of home seekers across the country. Mr Agarwala will remain with the business to support the appointment of his successor and ensure a smooth leadership transition before departing. A comprehensive process to appoint a new CEO is underway. REA Group CEO Owen Wilson paid tribute to Mr Agarwala and said his leadership has been a key driver of REA Indias growth. Dhruv is an exceptional entrepreneur and has harnessed the rapid expansion of digital real estate in India to build a high growth business. He has created a culture of innovation and developed a talented team who have delivered a market-leading audience and significant revenue growth in a highly competitive market. He leaves behind a considerable legacy that will have a lasting impact. I am grateful for Dhruvs leadership and friendship over the past eight years and while he will remain with the business for now, on behalf of REA Group, I would like to sincerely thank Dhruv for his leadership and contribution. REA India is in an extremely strong position with an experienced management team and a strategic focus on app-prime property experiences that underscores an exciting future. Mr Agarwala commented: It has been a privilege leading REA India and Im incredibly proud of everything we have achieved together. From founding PropTiger in 2011 to growing Housing.com into Indias foremost digital real estate platform, it has been an amazing journey. Now feels like the right time for me to step away and create space for new leadership to take the company forward. REA India is in great shape with a clear strategy, a strong team, and a powerful brand thats changing the way people experience property in India. I look forward to watching the company continue to grow and thrive from the sidelines. I want to thank the passionate and talented team at REA India for their passion and commitment and belief in the vision. Weve accomplished great success together but theres more to be done and I know they will continue to deliver on our exciting strategy. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Owen Wilson, REA Group and News Corp for their support over the years and for sharing my vision and ambition for the real estate ecosystem in India. Also Read: REA India names Abhishek Makkar as CTO Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a multi-business corporation and leading FMCG conglomerate, has launched the Adopt The Tidyman Campaign, which is part of the CatchTheRightBin campaign. This initiative aims to enhance awareness and promote action on waste segregation at the source. With a strengthened focus on corporates and individuals collaboration, Adopt the Tidyman, is aimed at inspiring corporates and individuals to take an active role in responsible waste segregation and management. Building on the success of the first edition, which introduced color-coded bin indicators on the packaging of various DS Group brands, Adopt the Tidyman goes a step further by urging more brands, individuals as well as corporations to adopt the colour coded Tidyman symbola globally recognized icon promoting waste segregation. Globally, the sheer volume of waste presents a monumental challenge, demanding urgent and coordinated action to mitigate its far-reaching environmental and societal consequences. Commenting on the initiative, Rajeev Jain, Senior Vice President, Corporate Marketing, DS Group, said, DS Group is pleased to announce Adopt The Tidyman campaign which is a part of CatchTheRightBin. This initiative directly addresses India's growing waste management challenge, which is largely caused by lack of segregation at source. We encourage corporates and individuals to engage strategically and champion responsible waste segregation and foster meaningful behavioral change across the nation. This will ensure proper treatment of generated waste. To maximize reach and visibility, DS Group will undertake a national media campaign as well as deploy several strategically placed OOH hoardings, appealing to larger corporates to join this simple initiative by making a minor change in the packaging. All creative content and educational material related to the campaign will be available on a dedicated microsite. Consumers and brands can learn more, take the pledge, and explore interactive content. The DS Group will launch a comprehensive campaign for waste segregation which will include digital films, OOH, social media and on ground activation to educate and guide people on proper waste segregation practices. Sobhita Dhulipala has emerged as a top choice for brands, thanks to her effortless elegance, distinctive beauty, and artistic sensibility. With a unique blend of sophistication and authenticity, she is the ideal face for luxury fashion, beauty, and jewelry brands. Heres why brands cant get enough of her: Pan-India and Global Appeal Sobhitas diverse portfolio spans Bollywood, South Indian cinema, and international projects like Monkey Man. Her wide reach makes her an asset for brands aiming to connect with varied and multicultural audiences. Timeless and Distinctive Beauty With sharp features, a dusky complexion, and classic charm, Sobhita breaks away from conventional commercial beauty norms. Luxury and high-fashion brands appreciate her exclusivity and the refined elegance she brings to their campaigns. Effortless yet Impactful Personal Style Whether gracing red carpets in vintage sarees, making power statements in tailored suits, or embracing minimalistic silhouettes, Sobhitas fashion choices are effortlessly chic. She naturally aligns with premium brands that value sophistication and individuality. Fashion as an Art Form Sobhita doesnt just wear clothesshe elevates them. Her editorial shoots and public appearances feel meticulously curated, making her a muse for heritage brands that celebrate craftsmanship, storytelling, and tradition. Intellectual Depth and Cultural Influence More than just a fashion icon, Sobhita is an advocate for literature, art, and history. Her intellectual depth and cultured persona make her a compelling brand ambassador, appealing to discerning consumers who value substance as much as style. Sobhita Dhulipala represents modern beautyintelligent, poised, and effortlessly stylish. Her presence doesnt just endorse a brand; it elevates it. In a world filled with fleeting trends, her enduring appeal and quiet confidence set her apart, making her the ultimate brand favorite. Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has announced the appointment of Dr Vivek Mittal as Executive Director, Legal and Corporate Affairs. He will take over from Dev Bajpai, who had announced his early retirement in October this year. Dr Mittal will join the companys Management Committee in March 2025. Dr Mittal currently serves as Global General Counsel at Dr. Reddys Laboratories Limited, managing legal, ethics, compliance, and data privacy risks for the company. He has over 25 years of experience in building dynamic legal teams across industries in reputed companies including Danaher Corporation, Lupin Limited, Reliance, Radico Khaitan, India Bulls Group, Caparo India Operations and Mount Shivalik Industries. He holds a Ph.D., a law degree (LL.B), a post-graduate degree in commerce (M.Com), and is a member of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). Welcoming Dr Mittal, Rohit Jawa, CEO and Managing Director, HUL, said, Dr Mittal has a proven track record of handling high-stakes legal matters, while maintaining a strong commitment to ethics and compliance. His contributions have been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives and ensuring legal and regulatory compliance across industries. I am confident that he will take the HUL legal function to its next phase of growth and transformation. Also Read: HUL appoints Rajneet Kohli as new Foods Executive Director The ice cream category is growing rapidly in India with significant prospects for expansion. With the ambition of making the category enjoyable for all, Kwality Walls has launched Golden Spoon - an accessible range of in-home delectable desserts. Staying true to the brands philosophy of serving joy, this new range aims to bring families together, turning everyday moments into cherished memories with every scoop. India is a huge market for desserts and the category for ice creams and frozen desserts remains underserved. With the growing cold chain infrastructure and an increase in home refrigerator penetration, there is a huge opportunity for growth. Through Golden Spoon, Kwality Walls aims to tap into this potential and connect with a wider set of consumers by introducing differentiated summer delights. From all-time classics to bold innovations, Golden Spoon offers four irresistible options: the timeless Vanilla; a first-of-its-kind Mithai Magic, a modern take on traditional Indian sweets containing boondi; 2-in-1 Chocolate Vanilla and 2-in-1 Mango Vanilla, offering consumers a parlour-like experience of two flavors in one scoop from the comfort of their homes. Celebrating moments of joy and togetherness, Kwality Walls has also launched a TVC featuring brand ambassador Kajol, the beloved Bollywood icon who is known for her expressive acting style and charisma. The film captures Kajol talking incessantly in the company of family members, before being presented with a serving of Golden Spoon. As soon as she takes a bite, she gets mesmerized and lost in the taste of Golden Spoon and everything stops. Silence ensues as she and her family savour every spoon, letting the dessert do all the talking. Toloy Tanridagli, Head of Ice cream business, HUL said, Our new brand Golden Spoon, aims to nurture togetherness among Indian families and friends. By democratizing the joy of indulging in a summer treat at home, we are offering consumers the best of both worlds. India is a fast-growing market for the consumption of ice creams and frozen desserts, yet they are not accessible to all. Golden Spoon is our response to bridging the gap that exists and expanding our presence rapidly. With such new and exciting flavors, we hope to accelerate our journey of spreading happiness to everyone. Talking about her association and launch of the new campaign, brand ambassador Kajol Devgan said, I have had a long-standing relationship with Kwality Walls over the past few years. The launch of Golden Spoon is an exciting step by the company to introduce unique flavors. I personally love the Mithai Magic and the all-time classic 2-in-1 packs. This campaign captures the excitement I had when I tried Golden Spoon for the first time. Shooting this campaign has been a delightful experience with the HUL team. Talking about the journey behind the TVC, Rahul Mathew, Chief Creative Officer at DDB Mudra, said, The ad brief was both exhilarating and challenging, as it required us to capture the essence of indulgence and joy that Golden Spoon promises. Working with Kajol, whose charm and elegance perfectly align with the brand's image, inspired us to create a campaign that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. We aimed to craft a narrative that not only highlights the delectable taste of the range of desserts but also evokes a sense of relatability and happiness. The result is an advertisement that we believe will captivate audiences and leave them eagerly anticipating their next delightful scoop. Furthermore, an above-the-line campaign encompassing television, social media, influencer partnerships, and seasonal content will keep Kwality Walls Golden Spoon at the forefront of consumers minds throughout the summer. Also Read: Twister's Indian debut: Kwality Wall's launches playful summer campaign After an impressive 14-year tenure, Sylvia Dutta has stepped down as Corporate Communications Lead at Jubilant FoodWorks. She announced her departure via LinkedIn. With over 16 years of experience in corporate communications, PR, and brand management, Dutta played a crucial role in shaping the communication strategies for brands like Dominos Pizza, Dunkin' Donuts, and Popeyes across India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Throughout her time at Jubilant FoodWorks, she led key initiatives in strategic planning, media relations, crisis communications, social media, and online reputation management. Notable campaigns under her leadership included the launch of Dominos 1000th store, the "Flavors of East" campaign, and the "Haath Vadao Vaccine Lagao" initiative. Dutta first joined Jubilant FoodWorks in 2010 as a Corporate Communications Manager and went on to become a driving force behind the companys corporate communication efforts. Amazon MX Player, Amazons free streaming service, turned up the heat with its latest series, Loot Kaand, a gripping heist thriller centred around themes of crime, deception, and survival. Directed by Ruchir and produced by the makers of Drishyam, the show delves into a world of daring heists and robberies set in the sleepy town of Purulia. At its core is Latika, portrayed by Tanya Maniktala, whose resilience and sharp instincts make her a compelling force in this high-stakes drama. The series also boasts a stellar cast, featuring Sahil Mehta, Gyandendra Tripathi, Saad Bilgrami, Ronjini Chakraborty, Nitin Goel, and Amit Sarkar in pivotal roles. Sharing her thoughts on the shows layered storytelling, Tanya reflected, I believe every choice made in the story comes from an individuals honest beliefs. People rarely question their own convictions, and thats what makes their journeys so compelling. If anything were different, we wouldn't have ended up with such an intense, high-stakes drama. Loot Kaand is the sum of every decision, every consequence, and every moment of defiance. Changing even one aspect would alter the very essence of the story, and I wouldnt want that. Recalling one of Latika's most powerful moments that deeply resonated with her, Tanya added, Theres one scene that stayed with me when Latika returns home to her bida and her mother after reaching a breaking point. At that moment, shes lost all hope, but her family anchors her, not by trying to fix everything, but simply by being there. As actors, we go through similar situations, its easy to feel defeated when things dont go as planned. That scene made me realize how crucial it is to have the right people around you, those who remind you of your strength. It was a deeply personal moment for me, one that helped me connect with Latika on a whole new level and understand the emotional weight of her journey. Loot Kaand is now streaming for free exclusively on Amazon MX Player, available through its apps on mobile, Amazons shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Connected TVs. Also Read: Tanya Maniktala opens up about social media trolling Congress to Challenge Waqf Amendment Bill in Supreme Court, Calls It 'Assault on Constitution' 2 The Congress has announced its plan to challenge the constitutionality of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Supreme Court, just hours after it was passed by Parliament. The party accused the Modi government of pushing an anti-minority agenda and undermining constitutional principles. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge voiced strong opposition, stating that the bill was introduced arbitrarily despite resistance from multiple parties. The atmosphere in the country regarding the Waqf Board Amendment Bill is such that it feels like this bill has been brought to harass minorities, Kharge posted on X. He highlighted the narrow vote margin in the Lok Sabha (288 in favor, 232 against) as evidence of its deep flaws. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh reiterated the partys stance, confirming that they will very soon move the Supreme Court against the bill. We are confident and will continue to resist all assaults of the Modi government on the principles, provisions, and practices enshrined in the Constitution, Ramesh said. The bill, which was passed in the Rajya Sabha (128 votes in favor, 95 against) after a 13-hour heated debate, was fiercely opposed by opposition leaders, who labeled it anti-Muslim and unconstitutional. However, the government defended the move as a historic reform aimed at bringing transparency and accountability to Waqf properties. The Congress has also been actively challenging other controversial laws in the Supreme Court, including the CAA (2019), amendments to the RTI Act (2005), and changes to the Conduct of Election Rules (2024). The party reaffirmed its commitment to fighting any move that threatens constitutional integrity and minority rights. With political tensions escalating, the Waqf Amendment Bill is set to become a major legal and electoral battleground, with the Congress gearing up for a high-stakes constitutional fight against the ruling BJP. Hyderabad University Students End Protest After Supreme Court Blocks Telangana Govt's Land Plans 2 The University of Hyderabad Students Union (UoHSU) has called off its indefinite protest and class boycott against the Telangana governments plan to develop a 400-acre land parcel near the university campus. The decision came after the Supreme Court intervened on Thursday, staying any further activity on the land until further orders. The protest, which began on April 1, was aimed at halting the governments project in Kancha Gachibowli, citing ecological concerns. Following the Supreme Courts stay, students resumed attending classes on Friday, UoHSU Vice President Akash Kumar confirmed. The Apex Court has also directed the Telangana government to clarify the compelling urgency behind clearing a large tree cover on the disputed land. In response, the state government has formed a ministerial committee to engage in discussions with the UoH executive committee, students, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to find a resolution. While students welcomed the Supreme Courts ruling, UoH Students Union President Umesh Ambedkar vowed to continue the fight until the proposed land auction is scrapped and the entire 400-acre land is officially transferred to the university. Meanwhile, students have also filed a petition in the High Court demanding the withdrawal of police personnel from the universitys East Campus, where the disputed land is located. President Trump's Bold Action Against Deadly Criminal Gangs Brings Hope for a Safer America 2 Two of the worlds most dangerous and violent gangsMS-13 and Tren de Araguahave long posed a serious threat to civil society, especially in the United States. These criminal networks are known for their brutality, and many of their members have entered the U.S. illegally. Their presence has created fear and instability in several American communities. One recent development came when U.S. authorities arrested Henrry Josue Villatoro Santos, a 24-year-old Salvadoran national and one of the top three MS-13 leaders operating on the East Coast. He was captured in Woodbridge, Virginia, and charged for illegally possessing a firearm while being in the country unlawfully. This arrest highlights the persistent danger posed by MS-13a gang originally formed in Los Angeles in the 1980s to protect Salvadoran immigrants but which quickly evolved into a transnational criminal empire. Over the years, MS-13 has become known for murder, drug trafficking, extortion, and extreme violence, spreading its influence throughout the U.S., Central America, and beyond. The Trump administration has taken firm and decisive steps to counter these threats. Since returning to office in 2025, President Donald Trump has prioritised national security and safety for every American. He ordered the deportation of several high-ranking MS-13 members to El Salvador, ensuring that they face justice and are removed from U.S. soil. This move was widely praised for directly targeting the root of the threat, rather than only treating its symptoms. Equally dangerous is the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, led by Hector Nino Guerrero. This organisation is involved in a range of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, human smuggling, extortion, illegal mining, and even arms dealing. Unlike MS-13, Tren de Aragua operates more like a cartel, without distinctive tattoos, making their members harder to identify. Originally based in Aragua state in Venezuela, the gang expanded rapidly, taking advantage of Venezuelas deep economic crisis to recruit poor and vulnerable individuals. Their operations now span much of Latin America and have even reached U.S. borders. In a groundbreaking move, President Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, starting the process of officially designating these gangsMS-13 and Tren de Araguaas Foreign Terrorist Organisations (FTOs). This classification, enacted on February 20, 2025, grants U.S. authorities broader powers to investigate, arrest, and prosecute anyone affiliated with or aiding these criminal groups. Using the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, Trump also authorised the deportation of suspected members, further strengthening national security. What makes these gangs particularly dangerous is their sheer brutality and organised structure. MS-13 is infamous for gruesome murders and gang rivalries, especially with the 18th Street gang. Tren de Aragua, on the other hand, operates more covertly and spreads terror through corruption, violence, and alliances with other powerful criminal groups like Brazils Primeiro Comando da Capital. Despite their differences, both gangs represent a clear and present danger to the safety and sovereignty of the United States. That is why President Trumps proactive stance is being applauded across the country. His willingness to confront these violent organizations head-on, while many turn a blind eye or politicise border issues, proves his commitment to law and order. By labelling these gangs as terrorist organisations and deporting their members, Trump has made a powerful statement: America will not be a safe haven for criminal syndicates. His actions show leadership, strength, and a genuine concern for American lives. In a world increasingly plagued by organised crime and open-border challenges, President Trumps resolve stands as a reminder that national security must never be compromised. Waqf Bill Fallout: Resignation Drama or JD(U) Crisis? Party Dismisses Protests 2 The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 has triggered a fresh controversy within Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumars JD(U), with multiple individuals claiming to resign from the party in protest. However, the JD(U) has dismissed these resignations as bogus, alleging a political conspiracy. On Friday, another person, Tabrez Siddiqui, who identified himself as a state general secretary of JD(U)s minority cell, announced his resignation. This follows the alleged resignations of Mohammad Qasim Ansari from East Champaran and Nawaz Malik from Jamui, both of whom shared their resignation letters on social media on Thursday. JD(U) national spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan Prasad refuted these claims, stating, These individuals never held any official post in the party. The JD(U) firmly supports the NDAs decision, which will benefit crores of poor Muslims. He further alleged that some of the so-called resigning members were associated with rival parties or had contested elections as Independents. Meanwhile, senior JD(U) leaders Ghulam Rasool Baliyawi and Bihar Shia Waqf Board Chairman Syed Afzal Abbas voiced concerns that the Bill did not incorporate key suggestions from Muslim community leaders. However, neither explicitly criticized Nitish Kumar or the JD(U)s support for the Bill. The controversy has sparked internal debates about JD(U)s Muslim voter base, especially with Bihars assembly elections looming later this year. Despite its long-standing alliance with the BJP, JD(U) has maintained a secular image, securing a portion of Muslim votes in past elections. Adding fuel to the fire, the opposition RJD took a jibe at Nitish Kumar by posting a morphed image of him on X (formerly Twitter), dressed in RSS attire, with the caption RSS certified Chief Minister Cheat-ish Kumar and the hashtag #WaqfAmendmentBill. As the political storm intensifies, the JD(U) faces a tough challenge in maintaining its coalition balance while keeping its Muslim vote bank intact. A 15-year-old boy is under arrest after authorities say he shot at Dothan police, marking the second time this week a young teen has fired on an Alabama officer. Just before 11 p.m. Wednesday, Dothan police responded to reports of someone with a gun at the intersection of North Range Street and Alabama Avenue. Lt. Scott Owens said when officers arrived, they found a person matching the description and he began to run from the scene. As officers began to pursue him, two others joined him. One of them pointed a gun at the officer and fired a single round, Owens said. The officer was not injured. All three suspects were able to escape that night despite K-9 officers attempting to track them, Owens said. During an unrelated investigation, detectives identified the person who shot at the officer as a 15-year-old boy. The teen is charged with first-degree attempted assault of a peace officer. He was placed in the Southeast Alabama Diversion Center as the request of a juvenile probation officer. Actions like these will not be tolerated in our community, said Chief William Benny. Whether someone is committing gun violence in the community or on a sworn law enforcement officer, the Dothan Police Department will find those who violate the law, who put citizens and officers in danger, and will fully hold them accountable according to the law. A 15-year-old was arrested earlier this week in Tuscaloosa after authorities say the teen, wearing a mask, fired at least eight rounds in rapid succession at Tuscaloosa officers. He is charged through juvenile court with two counts of attempted murder and shooting into an occupied vehicle. Four Alabama teens have been charged in separate spring break shootings in Panama City Beach. Three of the teens are charged in last weekends shooting at Pier Park, and one is charged in an overnight shooting outside a popular restaurant in which no one was injured. Panama City Beach Police Chief J.R. Talamantez said Friday the Pier Park shooting, which left three young victims from Alabama with non-life-threatening gunshot injuries, was a cowardly event and the result of rival gangs in south Alabama. The shooting resulted from rival gangs from the Dothan area coming here and having some type of words which resulted in the exchange of gunfire, the chief said. Im not going to mention the gangs names because they dont even deserve to have their stupid names mentioned in this forum, Talamantez said. Those charged in the Pier Park shooting are Kevin Tyrone Moore, 18, Jamarion Lamont Lil Poop Baker, 15, and Avaughn Brown, 17. Moore and Baker are charged with three counts of attempted homicide. We believe Mr. Moore fired an AR-15-style rifle in a crowd, almost killing the individuals we identified as victims, Talamantez said. Baker goes by the name Lil Poop, the chief said. Hes as dumb as his name, 120 pounds of nothing. Moore and Baker were taken into custody in the Dothan area by U.S. Marshals and Dothan police. The two were captured in separate arrests and are awaiting extradition to Florida. These three will probably not be the only arrests, Talamantez said. All of their associates...we know who you are. Believe it or not, these teenagers are talking and telling us everything we need to know. If you think theyre your friends, theyre not. So, if youre in the Dothan area and thinking about coming back to Panama City Beach this week, you might be doing us a favor because we have arrest warrants for you he said. But well be more than happy to go up there and pick you up. The behavior that you conduct yourself at home is not how we operate in our home, the chief said. Were going to make sure you understand that. The shooting happened shortly before 9:30 p.m. Saturday, March 29, in the area of Dave and Busters at Pier Park. The chief said the gunfire erupted between two groups of people and said police officers were just 50 feet away when the shots rang out. All three victims have since been released from the hospital. As a result, authorities have established a couple of special event zones, where tougher restrictions will be enforced in the coming weekends. Those restrictions, which include prohibition of masks and backpacks, went into effect Friday morning. Thursday nights gunfire happened outside Hammerhead Freds on Thomas Drive. Talamantez said there was an event taking place there when a rumor surfaced that someone had a gun inside the business. This resulted in a bunch of scared children fleeing from the location, the chief said. There is no evidence right now showing there was a gun inside the business, but it did result in a mass exodus. As everybody was fleeing, the chief said, 18-year-old Isaiah McKenzie decided to add to the environment by taking his weapon, placing it outside the car, and firing four shots in the air. McKenzie, also of Dothan, was quickly taken into custody. He did this within feet of some police officers, Talamantez said. The only explanation he provided was, I dont know why I did it. Maybe I wanted to scare the crowd. Thats the mentality weve been dealing with these past couple of weeks. McKenzie is charged with discharging a weapon from a vehicle, display of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, destroying evidence and a minor in possession of alcohol. Theres a lot of good people that live up there (in Dothan, the chief said, but this trash that keeps coming down from that area has a hard time learning that were not going to put up with it. Panama City Beach Mayor Stuart Tettemer delivered a warning to youth. This kind of violence doesnt give you credibility. Everyone is going to forget you when youre in jail, Tettemer said. Your girlfriend is going to leave you, your kids if you have them wont know you, your buddies arent going to come see you. If you stay on this path, youre going to end up on the side of the road bleeding out, crying, dead and forgotten, he said. People remember heroes. They dont remember losers. You need to find God and repent. Even Alabamas tiniest towns played a role in the states history. From time to time, we check in on towns with fewer than 100 residents. The 2023 Census data, the latest available, shows the number of towns in that category has risen from 17 in 2017 and 16 in 2013. Note: This list includes only incorporated towns. Three new towns have been added since our last check in 2017: Lowndesboro, Myrtlewood and Ridgeville. One town, Haleburg in Henry County, has grown to 114 residents and has been removed from the list. Weve provided the population, county and physical size of each town and, where it was available, some background information. These are in order from smallest to largest. Bethel Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church in Oak Hill, Ala. Rural Southwest Alabama Oak Hill, population 13 Down from 26 people in 2017. Covers 0.6 square miles in Wilcox County. The town of Oak Hill, settled in 1830, was initially called The Ridge. It was incorporated in 1910. Alabama Gov. Benjamin Meek Miller (1931-35) was an Oak Hill native. Oakhurst Manor in Emelle, Ala., was built in 1854. Nation Register of Historic Places Emelle, population 24 Down from 53 people in 2017. Covers 0.2 square miles in Sumter County. Emelle was named after Emma Dial and Ella Dial, the daughters of the man who donated the land for the town. The town was started in the 19th century but not incorporated until the 1980s. The town is known for being the site of the largest hazardous waste landfill in the country. The 1930 lynching of resident Esau Robinson in the town was featured in a Time magazine article on July 14, 1930. A home in Old Memphis, Ala, shown in the 1930s when it was photographed for the Historic American Buildings Survey. Library of Congress Memphis, or Old Memphis, population 25 Down from 29 people in 2017. Covers .4 square miles in Pickens County. Memphis was incorporated before 1850. In 1984 when the town had $40 in the bank, it was listed as the poorest town in the country, according to the Tuscaloosa News at the time. McMullen, population 29 Up from 10 people in 2017. Covers .1 mile in Pickens County. McMullen was the smallest town in the state in population until 2020. It is still the smallest town in area, according to the Encyclopedia of Alabama. The 1858 Boddie Law Office in Dayton, Ala. Rural Southwest Alabama Dayton, population 27 Down from 53 in 2017. Covers 1 square mile in Marengo County. Dayton was incorporated in 1844. It once had male and female academies, a hotel, cotton gin, oil mill, blacksmith shop, tavern, cabinet shop, drug store and several general merchandise stores. One of its surviving homes is the William Poole House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Alabama's Natural Bridge is the longest natural rock bridge east of the Rockies. (Tamika Moore) Natural Bridge, population 35 Down from 37 people in 2017. Covers .4 square miles in Winston County. The town is notable for its nearby rock arch, also named Natural Bridge, which spans 127 feet. Residents in the town take turns being mayor. The Masonic Hall in Benton, Ala., when it was photographed in the 1930s for the Historic American Buildings Survey. Library of Congress Benton, population 38 Down from 49 people in 2017. Covers .3 square miles in Lowndes County. Benton was first called Maulls Landing, as it was located on the Alabama River on land bought by James Maull, who laid out a town on the acreage in 1832, said the Encyclopedia of Alabama. The town, named for Thomas Hart Benton, was incorporated in 1834. The 1840 post office in Mooresville, Ala., is the oldest operating post office in Alabama. Kelly Kazek Mooresville, population 48 Down from 53 people in 2017. Covers .1 square mile in Limestone County. Mooresville is known for being an almost perfectly preserved 19th century village. It is an oft-photographed town of pre-Civil War homes and buildings and the site of the filming of the 1995 Disney movie Tom and Huck. Mooresville Post Office is the oldest continuously operating post office in the state. Ethelsville, population 50 Down from 81 people in 2017. Covers .6 square miles in Pickens County. In 1843, local resident John H. Alexander uncovered a shield and pair of copper scales while plowing his fields, the Encyclopedia of Alabama said. The shield was engraved with the word Hispana, which most historians have recognized as evidence that Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto likely passed through Pickens County. The old town hall in Cardiff, Ala., photographed in the 1930s for the Historic American Buildings Survey. Library of Congress Cardiff, population 52 Down from 55 people in 2017. Covers .2 square miles in Jefferson County. Cardiff is named after the capital of Wales in Great Britain. The town, made up of many Scottish and Welsh immigrants, was officially incorporated in January 1900, when it boasted more than 560 residents, several stores, two blacksmith shops, and a saloon, according to the Encyclopedia of Alabama. Goldville, Ala. Wikimedia Commons Goldville, population 56 Up from 55 people in 2017. Covers 1 square mile in Tallapoosa County. Named after the discovery of large gold deposits in the area in 1842, Goldville was once home to more than 3,500 people, many of whom were gold prospectors. According to a website on the history of gold mining in Tallapoosa County, the town once had 14 merchants, seven saloons and two hotels. The town had 10 good years before miners left for California in 1850 upon hearing news of the gold rush there. A historical marker states the town was dormant for more than 100 years and was reinstated as a municipality on July 9, 1973. A building in Petrey, Ala. Wikimedia Commons Petrey, population 64 Up from 58 people in 2017. Covers .8 square miles in Crenshaw County. The town originally was called Forkland, but the name was eventually changed because so many Petreys were living in the area, according to the Encyclopedia of Alabama. It was located on the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad until the company ended passenger service. When railroads serviced the area, Petrey had several businesses and even a hotel. Its schools had as many as 250 students at the towns height. Myrtlewood, population 16 New to the list since 2017; down from more about 130 people. Covers 2.60 square miles in Marengo County. The community originally named Rembert Hills was renamed by residents because of the many crepe myrtles that grew in the area. In 1955, a paper mill was built there and it was finally incorporated in 1957. A historic log cabin in Broadhead Memorial Park in Needham. Rural Southwest Alabama Needham, population 71 Down from 94 people in 2017. Covers .6 square miles in Choctaw County. The Walter Wilson gristmill was the center of life in Needham during the early 20th century. Today it is the centerpiece of a community park. Originally called Bogueloosa after a nearby creek, the town was renamed in honor of Civil War veteran Eli W. Needham, according to the Encyclopedia of Alabama. Union Grove, population 71 Down from 77 people in 2017. Covers .6 miles in Marshall County. The town was originally named Parches Cove. It was renamed Union Grove because federal troops camped there during the Civil War, according to the Encyclopedia of Alabama. It was incorporated in 1962. The cupola atop St. James Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Lowndesboro, Ala., was salvaged from Alabama's first capitol building in Old Cahaba. Kelly Kazek Lowndesboro, population 79 New to the list since 2017; down from about 115 people. Covers .79 square miles in Lowndes County. Lowndesboro is known for preserving its historic structures. Lowndesboros Historic District, which includes many churches, mansions, cottages, and other structures, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, according to the Encyclopedia of Alabama. Rosewood (1855) and Meadowlawn (1853) are two of the most notable Greek Revival mansions. The Christian Methodist Episcopal church (1830) is topped by a cupola that was salvaged from Alabamas first capitol building in Old Cahaba. Blue Springs, Ala. Wikimedia Commons Blue Springs, population 79 Down from 96 people in 2017. Covers 2.9 miles in Barbour County. This tiny town is home to Blue Springs State Park, a 103-acre park along the banks of the Choctawhatchee River near the center of town. It offers a spring pool, campground and picnicking. Blue Reindeer Creek is a designated historical site. The T. Augustus Womack House in Ridgeville, Ala., as it looked in 1985. Alabama Department of Archives and History Ridgeville, population 83 New to the list since 2017. Covers .82 square miles in Etowah County. Ridgeville was incorporated in 1968. Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church, built ca. 1906, is listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage. This one-cell jail in Faunsdale, Ala., was built in 1907 and used until 1955. Rural Southwest Alabama Faunsdale, population 84 Down from 96 people in 2017. Covers .2 square miles in Marengo County. Faunsdale was named for nearby Faunsdale Plantation and is home to the areas only Amish Mennonite church: Cedarcrest Mennonite Church. The Community Food Bank of Central Alabama broke ground April 3, 2025, on a new facility that double the size of its current warehouse and is being built in an industrial park just off Lakeshore Parkway at 4336 Turin Drive in Bessemer. It is expected to open in spring 2026. Community Food Bank The Community Food Bank of Central Alabama, which feeds the needy across a 12-county area that includes Gadsden, Jasper and Talladega, has begun construction on a new distribution center in Bessemer that will be twice as big and replace the current facility in Birmingham. Its expected to open in the spring of 2026. Nicole Williams, CEO of Community Food Bank of Central Alabama, said the current warehouse facility at 107 Walter Davis Drive in Birmingham is not big enough or well-equipped to handle the need. Its not very efficient, she said. The efficiencies of this new space are really going to help our team move more food in and out to our community. The new facility will be double the size and is being built in an industrial park just off Lakeshore Parkway at 4336 Turin Drive in Bessemer. This will help us bring in more food and get it out to the community, Williams said. A big freezer cooler space in the middle of the building will increase the capacity for refrigerated food. It will have inbound and outbound shipping ramps on both sides, and an area for volunteers to build food boxes, and for the food bank to accept and sort items that are donated. We currently move about 2 million pounds of food a month into and out of our warehouse to 12 counties to feed people, Williams said. The 12-county area includes Blount, Calhoun, Cherokee, Clay, Cleburne, Etowah, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Walker, and Winston. There are many working people in the region who do not qualify for federal nutrition programs, but may have experienced a temporary hardship because of unexpected health expenses or car repairs, Williams said. Its the food budget that suffers, she said. We are feeding people who are working and have families but are just a little short each month, to make sure they have enough nutritious food. Trump administration freezes and cuts to U.S. Department of Agriculture programs has halted or eliminated at least $1.5 billion in USDA funds for schools and food banks. Thats felt by the Community Food Bank, Williams said. The cuts from the USDA mostly affect the food that we get from organizations, she said. It is definitely affecting the food bank and where we get our food, Williams said. We already know there are programs that have been canceled that have resulted in almost 3 million pounds of food for the food bank being lost this year. That equates to 2.6 million meals. We are working to move more food and more community support to fill those gaps. The food bank is asking for donations to offset the losses. We did 25 million pounds of food last year, so 3 million pounds of that is lost for this year, Williams said. Well need to find that food elsewhere. That might mean buying more food. We need folks to step forward, donate to the food bank so we can purchase more food. Theres not ever enough food to go around. Helping feed hungry families has been a goal thats attracted a lot of community support. So far, the Community Food Bank has raised $24.5 million toward the cost of its new building, it and needs to raise $7 million more. The current warehouse will be sold with proceeds going toward the new building, but that wont be enough to cover the additional $7 million thats needed. The food bank operates with 57 paid staff and thousands of volunteers who work with more than 300 partner agencies to distribute food throughout the region. I would love to say we can solve hunger, Williams said at the groundbreaking ceremony on April 3. I dont think its going to happen in our lifetime. We can continue to work towards it. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) celebrated the launch of the all-new 2022 Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle on Tuesday, June 22, 2021. Hyundai is ending its free scheduled maintenance visits for new car buyers, according to Car and Driver. While the unsupportable cost of the program might have done it in, analysts say it also may be due to the expected costs of the new Trump Administration tariffs on automobiles and other foreign goods. At the same time, the South Korean automaker said it is continuing to evaluate the possible effect of the newest slate of tariffs issued this week by the Trump Administration on the cars manufactured at its Montgomery plant. In a statement, Hyundai said customers who purchased a vehicle that included the Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance Program from 2020 through 2025 will experience no changes to their service. The service will also continue for 2024 and 2025 vehicles sold or leased as new, the automaker said. Once 2026 models go on sale, customers will have a choice of pre-paid maintenance plans. Hyundai is also continuing to evaluate the possible effect of certain aspects of this weeks new round of tariffs announced Wednesday by President Donald Trump. In a statement, the automaker said that its Montgomery plant builds nearly half of the Hyundai vehicles sold in the United States. (Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama) does source parts from Mexico and those parts are compliant with the U.S., Mexico, Canada Agreement (USMCA). Therefore, they are not subject to the tariffs announced on April 2, the company said. We will continue to produce safe, high-quality vehicles for the North American market, while sustaining jobs at our facility and across our supplier network in Montgomery and surrounding communities. Hyundai has made several moves related to the Trump tariffs. Hyundai CEO Jose Munoz on Thursday said the Korean automaker doesnt have any immediate plans to raise prices in response to the tariffs, according to Reuters. Robert Burns, the chief administrative officer at the plant, told WSFA the bottom line is, were not going to stop building cars. And Hyundai last month announced it will invest $21 billion on its U.S. manufacturing operations. That includes $5.8 billion for a steel factory in Louisiana that will employ 1,300 people. Hours before Prichard residents met Thursday night to discuss the future of their struggling water and sewer system, federal officials unveiled indictments against seven people for their alleged roles in a multi-million dollar fraud scheme involving the citys water and sewer board. Several of the people charged once worked for the board, which has been under scrutiny by state and federal prosecutors since at least 2022. The U.S. Department of Justice made the announcement Thursday and the release stated that two individuals have already pleaded guilty. That leaves the five remaining defendants with a total of 32 counts that they were indicted for. According to the unsealed indictment the defendants include, Nia Bradley, 50, who is the former water board manager, Randy Burden, 47, Steve Jones, 61, Larry Knight, 35, Dejuan Lamar, 47, Ayanna Payton, 47, and Stephanie Hunn, 49. Hunn and Payton were the two that have already pleaded guilty to their involvement in the fraud scheme, which swindled about $2.4 million from the Prichard Water Board, according to the statement. Bradley in February 2022 had been arrested on state charges of aggravated theft by deception and first degree theft of property. The arrest came about 10 days after Mobiles then District Attorney confirmed an all-encompassing probe of the water board. State and federal agencies also raided water board offices after allegations surfaced that employees were using office funds to buy designer handbags, makeup and more. Officials said the scheme charged in the federal indictment lasted from 2018 to 2022 and $960,000 of the $2.4 million was allegedly laundered through a business owned by Burden and Bradley. The indictment alleges that the criminal scheme involved the creation of a fictitious business by Hunn and the creation of false invoices to justify unlawful payments to Hunn, Jones, Knight, and Lamar, the release stated. Bradley and Burden, who were employees of the Prichard Water Board, allegedly falsified payment authorizations and received kick-back payments and other benefits. Payton and another uncharged co-conspirator served on the board of the Prichard Water Board where they are alleged to have falsified payment authorizations and received kick-back payments and other benefits for their roles. The indictments also revealed that several of the individuals used coded messages to conceal their communications while destroying evidence of their alleged crimes. Bradley, Payton, Jones and Hunn allegedly committed tax fraud to avoid detection by the U.S. government. Through its criminal cases, the United States is seeking money judgments in the amounts of approximately $2,459,279.39, $960,851.41, and $302,134.90, as well as the forfeiture of three real properties which were purchased using fraud proceeds and involved in the money laundering scheme, the release said. The water board provides water and sewer services to 2,000 businesses and 8,000 homes and is funded through customer payments as well as a $55 million bond secured in 2019. The board defaulted on that bond. Due to the utility being in crisis, it has naturally impacted consumers and citizens within Prichard. A town hall was held Thursday evening for citizens to discuss the troubled water and sewer infrastructure that John Young, the court-appointed receiver for the Prichard Water Works and Sewer Board, said was headed towards a public health emergency. As previously mentioned Payton and Hunn pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail, bank, and wire fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States, wire fraud, bank fraud and false tax filing. They both await sentencing. Bradley is charged with conspiracy to commit mail, bank, and wire fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States, money laundering conspiracy, wire fraud, bank fraud, and related tax charges. Burden is charged conspiracy to commit mail fraud, bank fraud, and wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy and bank fraud. Jones is charged with conspiracy to commit mail, bank, and wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, bank fraud and filing false tax returns. Knight and Lamar are charged with conspiracy to commit mail, bank, and wire fraud and Bank Fraud. US Senator Katie Britt (R-AL) attends a press event on the Laken Riley Act at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025. (Photo by ALLISON ROBBERT/AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images Alabama U.S. Sen. Katie Britt is calling for federal prosecution of those making online threats against federal immigration authorities. Newsweek is reporting Britt made the statement following the arrest of a Texas man who allegedly threatened on social media to shoot and kill federal immigration agents. Any threats of violence against these courageous law enforcement officers and agents should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, Britt said in a statement to Newsweek. The hardworking men and women at CBP, DHS, and ICE are tasked with keeping our nation secure, our communities safe, and our families protected. Each and every day, they put their lives on the line to protect our nation, she said. As part of a mass deportation campaign by President Donald Trumps administration, ICE has increased operations and raids across the country since Jan. 20. Britts comments come a week after Alireza Doroudi, a University of Alabama doctoral student originally from Iran, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In February, Border Protection officers in Texas detained a male U.S. citizen for allegedly assaulting and impeding officers during inspections. Activists have also distributed flyers in California revealing the names, photos and phone numbers of ICE agents. As Chairman of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure these officers have the funding and resources they need to do their jobs and keep our homeland safe, she added. Alabama lawmakers have moved forward a bill that would give local law enforcement more authority to detain and arrest people who may be undocumented immigrants. HB7, sponsored by Rep. Ernie Yarbrough, R-Trinity, would allow state and local officers to enter into partnerships with the federal government, through memorandums of understanding, and directly pursue immigration enforcement. Theres no new laws added, Yarbrough said to members of the House Judiciary Committee Wednesday before the committee voted to pass the bill. It simply allows that partnership to take place just to address safety in our communities. The bill allows local law enforcement to enforce federal immigration laws. Yarbrough has named it the Laken Riley Act, a state version of the federal law sponsored by Sen. Katie Britt and passed by Congress in January in honor of a Georgia woman killed by an undocumented immigrant. Currently, local law enforcement cannot ask people their immigration status unless they have been charged for something else. Alabama law enforcement has to refer all immigration enforcement to federal officials, typically U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said Hoss Mack, executive director of the Alabama Sheriffs Association. If you had a reasonable suspicion or probable cause that the person was illegal, then you can travel down the immigration issue without an adjacent criminal charge, said Mack, about what the legislation would change. The bill would also allow smaller county jails to enter into agreements with ICE to house detainees. Currently, a handful of larger counties have contracts with the federal government to house detainees. Those contracts take years to establish, Mack said. Small jails occasionally have extra bed space that could be used to increase capacity in the state for holding detainees, he said. Another aspect of the bill allows local law enforcement to transport immigration detainees who have not been charged with another crime, whereas currently that falls to federal officers. The legislation also requires local law enforcement to report anyone suspected of being undocumented to the federal government. Yarbrough introduced the same bill last year. It was passed out of committee but met resistance from the Hispanic and Immigrant Center of Alabama and the Southern Poverty Law Center. An estimated 60,000 undocumented immigrants live in the state, according to the American Immigration Council. They make up about 1.8% of Alabamas workforce. About 183,500 people in the state are immigrants. On Wednesday, the committee approved an amendment suggested by Rep. Ben Robbins, R-Sylacauga, to make the requirement that local law enforcement publicly share data about immigration enforcement an option, not a mandate. Rep. Penni McClammy, D-Montgomery, questioned whether Alabama has an immigration problem. It seems like were passing a lot of immigration bills this year, she said. I kind of have concerns. Are we targeting people? A Fairfield man previously convicted in two robberies is now accused of robbing a Birmingham bank of $10,000. Geron Scott, 30, is charged with third-degree robbery in a holdup at Chase Bank on Crossplex Boulevard. Police said Scott walked into the bank about 3:30 p.m. Monday and handed the teller a note demanding money. He fled with $10.000, according to charging documents. Birmingham Police Departments Real Time Crime Center provided information to officers that aided them in capturing the suspect in Fairfield within one hour of robbery, said Officer Truman Fitzgerald. Patrol officers also recovered the stolen cash. After warrants were obtained, Scott was booked into the Jefferson County Jail at 3:07 p.m. Tuesday and released at 9:46 p.m. after posting $15,000 bond. Scott pleaded guilty in 2014 to two different robberies of individuals. In one case, he took $300 from a woman and in another he robbed a man of his keys. A gun was used in both of the previous robberies. Scott was sentenced to 20 years in prison with 3 years to serve. For the fifth consecutive year, Alabama saw more deaths than births, a problem that an expert says will become increasingly difficult to stop. In 2024, 52 of 67 Alabama counties saw more deaths than births, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The problem is so multifaceted and dynamic that it is difficult to pin down exact causes for the shift, said Nyesha Black, the director of demographics at the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Alabama. These demographic numbers, the averages, they are a consolidation of peoples stories, Black told AL.com. There can be changes from county to county but even just down a street. Only eight states saw a higher rate of natural population decline in 2024. Alabama has one of the older populations in the nation, which also results in more deaths, Black said. However, a big demographic tipping point was 2020 due to the huge amount of excess deaths from COVID, she explained. The borders of the state feature the most consistent patterns of decline. The more central metropolitan areas are where most of the growth is found. [Cant see the map? Click here.] Choctaw County, in the southwest region, saw its population affected more than any other by natural change or the number of births minus the number of deaths. The population there has declined each year since 2020, according to the Census. In 2024, it shrank by 1.7%. About 1% was due to natural change. Cherokee, Lowndes, Tallapoosa and Coosa were the next highest in the rate of natural population decline. The common trend is their rural status and aging population, according to Black. They are all relatively poor compared to state averages and very poor compared to national averages, according to the Census. Each of the five counties has seen more deaths than births in every year since 2020. Many rural areas are losing younger families and children as they leave in search of better infrastructure in more metropolitan areas. This leads to fewer children being born and an older population which sees more deaths. Most commonly, people are moving for jobs, opportunities, Black said. If theres not a robust labor market in an area, then see where people are likely to move in, and more people are likely to move out. So across time, you kind of have this, you know, erosion in population. Black added that this cycle can be self-fulfilling. As people leave, the market becomes less strong, leading more people to leave as a result to find better opportunities. The school systems get worse, the housing gets worse, these are the types of things that will appeal to young families. This pattern could explain why many of the metropolitan centers of the state are the only ones growing. Individuals of child-rearing age are moving there in search of opportunities. Black said that this is why Alabama is seeing most of its natural growth in suburban areas. The major population centers of Montgomery, Birmingham, and Huntsville and their neighboring counties are some of the only areas in the state to feature natural growth over the last few years. Shelby, Autauga and Marshall counties are all examples of this suburban growth. Alabama as a whole saw 1,732 more deaths than births last year. Despite those numbers, the states population still increased by about 40,000 from 2023. The data shows that this change can be chalked up to both international and domestic migration. [Cant see the map? Click here.] Black said that the trend is in no way unique to Alabama. The entire nation is likely to have a downturn in population over the coming century due to a decrease in childbirth and an aging population. Black added that the downturn can be hard to stop. She said future and even current consequences of this decrease include the closure or merging of K-12 and college-level schools, like Judson College and Birmingham Southern, economic downturn, and increased need for health care for aging populations. Its a policy prescription to solve this, I believe, Black said. Its tough because it can take such a long time to see results. Once these trains start, its on the rails, it just gains momentum. It gets harder and harder to stop. This image released by Sony Pictures shows Mel Gibson in a scene from "Father Stu." (Karen Ballard/Sony Pictures via AP) AP The Justice Department has approved Mel Gibsons rights to own guns again after a 2011 domestic violence conviction. Attorney General Pam Bondi approved the restoration of the actors gun rights, along with nine other people, the New York Times reported. Gibson, who in January was named a special ambassador to Hollywood by President Trump along with Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone, would be permitted to own firearms again depending on state laws. Gibson is a resident of Nevada, which prohibits felons owning guns, but Gibsons conviction was a misdemeanor. The debate over Gibsons gun rights caused considerable upheaval in the Justice Department, and the departments pardon attorney Elizabeth G. Oyer was fired by the Trump administration in March after expressing concern over letting the Passion of the Christ director be able to possess firearms. Giving guns back to domestic abusers is a serious matter that, in my view, is not something that I could recommend lightly, because there are real consequences that flow from people who have a history of domestic violence being in possession of firearms, she said at the time. A senior Justice Department official denied that her firing was related to the debate over Gibsons gun rights, the NYTimes reported. New regulations were recently published by the Justice Department that restore gun rights to certain people with criminal convictions as long as they have earned the chance to own guns again. Gibson pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of battering a former girlfriend, Oksana Grigorieva. He was sentenced to 36 months of probation as well as community service and counseling. Gibsons representative had no comment. 2025 Variety Media, LLC, a subsidiary of Penske Business Media; Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC Glen Adams, the City of Homewoods first ever interim city manager, said his hope is to help Homewood continue to grow and develop for decades to come. Alaina Bookman Newly installed Homewood City Manager Glen Adams, 57, said his hope is to help Homewood continue to grow and develop for decades to come. Adams started the job in early March, with his contract running through the end of October. As the new city manager, Adams job is to oversee the day-to-day operations of the city government, implement policies and manage city staff, all under the direction of the city council. Adams will help facilitate methods of achieving the goals the council creates. We have different communities that are all eclectically different, but they all say very adamantly that theyre a part of Homewood, Adams told AL.com So we need to be able to allow them to achieve their goals in coalition with all of ours, and its really a synchronization of all of those goals as were moving forward. Over his 26 years of active and reserve service in the U.S. Army engineer regiment, Adams gained experience in managing large-scale construction projects, overseeing public works and coordinating government operations. Adams said his journey toward city management began in Savannah, Georgia in 1994 when he witnessed local leaders restore their community after a major storm. He said this inspired him to pursue public service, focusing on rebuilding, infrastructure and community development. He later worked as the interim town manager of Purcellville, Virginia and the city manager of Santa Fe, Texas where he helped to mitigate flooding in the coastal region. Now, Adams lives in Pell City and works alongside city of Homewood leaders. He is now responsible for working with city personnel, supervising every city department and enforcing the citys ordinances. While authority is still vested in the mayor of Homewood, Adams will be working directly with the city council to get things done. Ive been given the free reign to really start developing the staff to raise up to the level of running things, Adams said. Its giving the staff the permissions to step up to that role, to think independently and make things happen, whereas before they had to validate that with the council on a regular basis. Come November, the city council will be reduced from 11 members to four, each designated to represent one of four wards and to increase efficiency within the city government. The new city council will decide whether to extend Adams tenure in November. Proposed redrawn ward map- Red lines represent current ward lines, colored areas represent proposed new ward lines Courtesy of the city of Homewood Its a significant change in the structure, and it makes it easier for city staff to do the things the council wants, because theres fewer ideas and its more cohesive, Adams said. Theyve been receptive to my ideas of coming up with a comprehensive plan that we put into the budget so the new council that is elected can actually work with the citizens, the mayor, myself and each ward representative to see where well be in 25 to 30 years. Adams said he will be working to bring all of Homewoods communities from all four wards, such as Edgewood, University Park and Hollywood, together to move the city forward cohesively. He said he is currently working on making communication within the city government more efficient and cohesive. Some concerns Adams said he wants to address with the city are walkability, parking and transit issues. He also said he wants to ensure Homewood communities remain engaged and inclusive. Adams said he hopes his interim position becomes permanent. Im super excited. I feel like Ive been moving towards this position my entire life, and Im hopefully going to continue in it. Its just a great opportunity and Ive loved every moment so far, Adams said. Meals on Wheels employees deliver hot meals as well as shelf stable items to clients daily. (AP Photo/Annie Mulligan) AP The layoffs at the Department of Health and Human Services slashed the staff of major federal aging, disability and anti-poverty programs, leaving the future of local programs like Meals on Wheels uncertain. In 2024, Meals on Wheels delivered 237,203 meals and provided services to 1,264 to homebound seniors and people with disabilities in Jefferson County. And every week, Meals on Wheels delivers more than 5,000 meals throughout Jefferson County. Though cuts are already affecting federal workers, it is currently unclear how the mass layoffs will impact Meals on Wheels services locally. As of right now, we are not aware of any impacts on our services, Candace ONeil, vice president of community engagement for United Way of Central Alabama, told AL.com. Shelby, Blount, Chilton, St. Clair and Walker County do not operate under Meals on Wheels but have a similar meal program for seniors and people with disabilities called the Elderly Nutrition Program through the Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging. Alabamas Elderly Nutrition Program served approximately 5.57 million eligible meals in 2022, according to an Alabama Department of Senior Services report. A Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging representative told AL.com that the program has not been affected by the layoffs, but they are unsure of how the layoffs will trickle down and what the future looks like right now. Last week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a dramatic restructuring in accordance with President Donald Trumps executive order, Implementing the Presidents Department of Government Efficiency Workforce Optimization Initiative. Meals on Wheels is largely funded by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), which lost at least 40% of its staff Tuesday, according to reports from NPR. In light of todays announcement of the planned restructuring of the U.S Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), we are continuing to assess all potential impacts and have many questions, Meals on Wheels of America said in a statement on March 27. Our main priority is ensuring that Americas seniors continue to receive the lifesaving meals, social connection and wellness checks they rely on through Meals on Wheels. Thats why the Older Americans Act (OAA) the primary source of federal funding for community-based Meals on Wheels providers must be safeguarded, Meals on Wheels of America said in a statement. HHS claims the restructuring will save taxpayers $1.8 billion per year through a reduction in workforce of about 10,000 full-time employees and downsizing the current 28 HHS divisions to 15 new divisions. The growing senior population and need, coupled with rising costs and funding shortfalls, have stretched local providers far beyond capacity. As is, 1 in 3 Meals on Wheels providers already has a waitlist. Any further disruption due to the HHS restructuring could cost more taxpayer dollars in the long run, Meals on Wheels of America said in a statement. U.S. Rep. Dale Strong this week said he does not believe Huntsville would make a good headquarters for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Strong made the comments at a town hall meeting he conducted by phone on Tuesday. The meeting came after some constituents complained that it was difficult to reach the congressman and address concerns about aggressive federal cuts made by President Donald Trumps Department of Government Efficiency, run by Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Strongs town hall lasted a little less than an hour, where he fielded questions about several topics. Protestors have called on Strong to meet with the community and address concerns about aggressive federal cuts made by DOGE. Here are five takeaways: 1. Huntsville is booming, but its probably not the best place for an FBI headquarters. Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville and other congressional Republicans have stated support for moving the FBI headquarters to Redstone Arsenal. Strong didnt sound affirmative that such a move would happen. Im just telling you right now, thats not a good move for us nor for the government, Strong said. But you start looking at it, we do all the accounting for the FBI, you look at the training thats done here, I think that we will continue to do this. I think our finest hours are still ahead. I think the time Ive been with the president, vice president, cabinet members, I just keep stressing the ability of what we can do here. The FBI did announce the transfer of 500 FBI workers to Huntsville earlier this year. Strong said that would bring the FBI presence to about 4,500 jobs. Strong said he supported Trumps efforts on getting the FBI out of the beltway. He also said that acreage at Redstone Arsenal meant that the FBI presence could continue to grow. As for the FBI presence in Huntsville, Alabama - we have proven that it can be run efficiently and are ready to bring more jobs here as changes are made nationwide...North Alabama has proven time and again that we are willing and able to answer the call, with second-to-none workforce, state of the art facilities, and room for growth. 2. Strong says the Trump tariffs will improve the U.S. economy Strong said adjusting the economy to President Trumps latest slate of tariffs will be a painful process, but he expects good things in the end. What the president is trying to do is return those jobs that were previously in America back to America, he said. While this right here is painful, I do believe weve got to make this so it works for America. We shouldnt be denied the ability to sell Harley-Davidson motorcycles in Germany, but yet were buying Mercedes from them. You see this all over the place. On Wednesday, Trump introduced tariffs on scores of nations, with a stated goal of encouraging more manufacturing to locate to the U.S. The news triggered seismic tremors in world markets. You watch what happens to our economy, Strong said. Were fixing to explode. 3. Strong supports an investigation into the Signal group chat The congressman said the American people deserve answers on how a journalist for The Atlantic was added to a group text on a social media app in which Trump Administration officials discussed air strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen. In his reporting, Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg said he was invited onto the chat by National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, according to Goldberg, revealed specific plans in the Signal chat. Strong said it doesnt matter whether the chat contained specific war plans or outlines of the strikes. We cant take the chance, he said. I want to find out who did it. Did Michael Waltz do it? Did a staff member do it? And the other question Ive got is, I cant believe the person that was added to that call was even in that call list. I dont know of anybody working in the White House that would even want to be around him. 4. In response to a question, Strong said he supports federal workers One caller said federal employees have been vilified in the media during coverage of the DOGE cuts to segments of the bureaucracy, and wanted to know what Strong was doing to stand up for the large federal workforce in Huntsville. He called the workforce at Marshall Space Flight Center exceptional. I think were perfectly positioned, not only at Redstone, but also the research park, he said. And there are other countries looking all over North Alabama because of the workforce. I will be fighting for our federal workers. Ill put our team up against anybody, because I know we can meet the mission. 5. Space Command headquarters in Huntsville is still a priority Strong said all of Alabamas lawmakers are still advocating for Space Command headquarters to be located in Huntsville. The U.S. Air Force named Redstone Arsenal the preferred location in 2021 for a permanent headquarters for the newly formed Space Command. The command had been temporarily housed at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colo. which is still its location after President Joe Bidens 2023 decision for it to remain there rather than move it to Alabama. I will continue to advocate that Space Command be built at Redstone Arsenal because it is best for national security, and I can tell you this right here, the entire Alabama delegation is working together, he said. Fresh off multiple sewage spills that dumped an estimated 1.3 million gallons of sewage into a waterway, dozens of Prichard area residents gathered at a town hall Thursday to learn more about the citys long-troubled water and sewer utility. We want to know whats being done to get the money that we have to have to improve the infrastructure of the sewer system, one resident said during the meeting. Its clear... the only solution were going to get is to have money enough from somebody or some entity to improve decades of neglect. What went largely undiscussed was the question of who would own the citys water and sewer infrastructurewhich by all estimations is almost in crisisgoing forward. This is no longer just a financial issueit is a public health emergency waiting to happen, John Young, the man appointed a court to oversee the Water Works and Sewer Board of the city of Prichard, stated in a new report to the court that appointed him. Young has argued that the only way to address the citys failing water and sewage infrastructureand residents high bills is if the utility is absorbed into the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS). Its an idea opposed by a group of residents represented by the Southern Poverty Law Center. The newest report from Young, filed Monday in Mobile County Circuit Court, lays out technical and financial analyses for alternative ownership structures. Young concludes that the only viable solution for the more than 24,000 people who use Prichards water and sewer utility is consolidation with MAWSS. The whole idea is whats best for the customer at the end of the day, Young said. The rates would go from already a very, very high $92 a month to over $200 a month with a standalone Prichard system. Plus, theres still questions on the technical and management capabilities of the system. Prichards water and sewer infrastructure is in worse condition than the infrastructure in Flint, Mich., Young said. Young worked on Flints water utility following the lead contamination crisis in 2015. Some Flint residents still buy bottled water despite assurances the problem has been resolved. Many Prichard residents and officials remain opposed to the idea of a takeover by MAWSS, arguing that the city giving up control of their water and sewer would mean losing some of its autonomy. I am sensitive to the fact that our citizens have suffered greatly underneath the wrong leadership and the wrong appointments to the board for the water and sewer of Prichard, said Carletta Davis, president of We Matter Eight Mile Community Association. But I also understand that when we take and give our destiny or our future to someone else, then depending on their political will, that may or may not work out for us. Davis argues that the question of ownership pales in comparison to the need for emergency funds now. Prichard and Chickasaw residents are suffering now, she said, from sewage spills that run into their yards and their homes, high bacteria counts in the water, and elevated levels of Trihalomethanes (THMs), a byproduct of the chlorine used to treat water. When there is a public health crisis, I know that there is disaster money or emergency monies that can be tapped in from the state level in order to get people out of harms way, Davis, who is running for mayor of Prichard, said. And that money needs to be sent to Pritchard so that people can get out of harms way. Prichard Mayor Jimmie Gardner called Youngs assertion that MAWSS is the only viable option overly narrow and predetermined conclusion that fails to fully consider all available options. Gardner slammed Youngs tenure as receiver, arguing that he has done little to stabilize the utility since he was appointed in November 2023. We call for a full review of Mr. Youngs receivership and demand an open and fair discussion about the best path forwardone that does not automatically default to consolidation with MAWSS as the only solution, Gardner said in a message. This isnt the first time Youngs appointment has been challenged: In May 2024, the Alabama Supreme Court upheld his appointment as receiver of the utility. He was appointed in 2023 by Mobile County Circuit Court Judge Michael Youngpeter after the water works board defaulted on a $55 million loan from Synovus Bank for needed capital improvements. Youngs engineering estimates have found that more than $400 million could be needed to bring the utilitys infrastructure up to standard. The court case remains ongoing. We Matter Eight Mile joined the case as an interested party. Represented by the Southern Poverty Law Center, on Tuesday We Matter filed a motion requesting a court hearing on Youngs latest report to the court. As the [report] notes, if MAWSS Board agrees to absorb PWWSB, the transfer would not be effectuated until Spring 2027, the motion states. Residents of Prichard have two long years ahead of them and need answers regarding water affordability in the short term. Youngpeter has not yet ruled on the motion. The utility has also been troubled by corruption. On Thursday, seven people, including a member of the utilitys board, were indicted on fraud charges stemming from activity at the Prichard utility, according to Fox 10. Though Davis did not explicitly discuss the indictment, she asked the crowd Thursday to focus on the ongoing sewage and water issues. Our focus needs to be on the public health and safety threat that is on our doorstep, she said Thursday. President Donald Trumps announcement of sweeping new tariffs triggered the worst day for stock markets in five years on Thursday, sending shockwaves across the nation and in Alabama. When you dump over the apple cart, its totally expected to have major ramifications, Retirement Systems of Alabama CEO David Bronner said Thursday in a statement. Stable markets are important to the RSA, which relies on investments to support pension funds for more than 400,000 active and retired education and government employees. The RSA said Thursdays market downturn caused a 2.2% loss on its investments. That amounted to a loss of $1.055 billion for the RSAs three defined benefit plans - the Teachers Retirement System, the Employees Retirement System, and the Judicial Retirement System - the RSA said. As of September 2024, the RSA was managing 24 funds with assets of $56 billion. The RSA paid $4 billion in benefits in 2024. The Wall Street Journal reported that stock indexes declined by up to 6% on Thursday and experienced the single largest one-day loss of value since the COVID pandemic arrived in March 2020. Trump says his tariffs are intended to bring factory jobs back to America and correct what he says are unfair trade policies that hurt the United States. The tariffs are expected to raise prices in America and spark retaliatory moves by other nations that trade with the United States. Read more: Trump tariffs hit Alabama businesses, big and small: If I cant pay it, I have to pass it on Bronner, who has previously expressed concerns about Trumps tariffs and the fast rollout of federal job and funding cuts affecting Alabama, said there are reasons to question the benefits that Trump says are his goal. Even though the concept of tariffs might work academically and can work for trading back and forth as a a negotiating tactic, you cant use it to force companies to make long term commitments (takes 4-5 years to establish a manufacturing plant), Bronner said. Companies cant commit to that because you are dealing with a man who changes his mind on a regular basis. Even if companies were willing to commit, you are punishing the consumer for four to five years while they build the plant. Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville, said he believes the initial pain caused by the tariffs will lead to the long-term benefits the president has promised. I think that the tariffs at some point, were seeing it already, are going to bring jobs to the United States of America and back to Alabama, Ledbetter said. It may be a bumpy road to begin with. Ledbetter noted Hyundais announcement that it plans to invest $21 billion in manufacturing operations in the United States. The company said it plans to invest in improving its production facilities, including Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (in Montgomery) and Kia Autoland Georgia, to further enhance its customer-centric approach in delivering high-quality automobiles. The economy is always volatile, Ledbetter said. Especially the market. And I feel that pain. All of us do. But if we can grow jobs here, if bring them back to Alabama especially, grow them in this country, were all going to see that turn around. Marine Le Pen was just banned from running for president of France for five years. Thats more like forever. Le Pen is deemed a criminal and sentenced to wear an electronic tag for a couple years. A French court claims she embezzled. But why would we believe a French court any more than we believe a Manhattan or D.C. district court? Trumps been through those wringers. Macron and his mates did to Le Pen what Romanian elites did to Calin Georgescu, the populist candidate for president there. Reportedly, he was the frontrunner. If you smell a rat, youre right. French judges are partisan, but not French partisans. Theyre shills for the European Union. The EU is a trans-European bureaucracy led by French and German elites to dominate the continent. American progressives envy the EU. The British voted out the EU, but their ruling class wants back in the club. Europe is reverting. Tyranny -- softer versions for now -- is making a comeback. That coincides with the moral rot infecting Europes elites. (U.S. elites, are infected, too, but thats for another day.) They loathe western civilization. Theyre contemptuous of those who spurn what amounts to nihilism. Theyre corrupt and incompetent, driving their nations off cliffs with globalist nostrums and governance. France, Germany, and Britain, once the pillars of Western Europe, are squandering their inheritances. Their leaders are flooding Europe with Muslim diaspora, leading to increasing social strife and crime of all types. Britain was once a bastion of rule of law, rights, and democracy. What marks Britain today is decay and descent. Self-loathing elites -- wet Conservatives are in that mix -- are transforming Britain with hordes of Muslim migrants. Cultural suicide is underway. Sweden, where violent crimes and rape were practically unheard of, is plagued by rape. Its bad in Sweden, but no better in Britain. The British elite, as policy, seem to accept the crime cesspool theyve created as a price of diversity. Brits are fearful to walk London streets. London was once a safe city. Say anything about Londons crime spike or Muslim gangs raping English girls, and the police are knocking at your door. In a Stalinist twist, British cops are after anyone posting memes or social media comments deemed offensive by the ruling class. Last August, Londons police chief, Sir Mark Rowley, said Americans better abide by British laws against incitement on social media, claiming that Being a keyboard warrior does not make you safe from the law. Rowley is a jackboot who believes his reach is transatlantic. If Democrats ever regain power, he might be right. For now, a firestorm of Yankee keyboard warriors waylaid Rowley, shutting him up. The Standard, via Yahoo News, reported on February 28: Violent crime and robbery now makes up a third of the cases stuck in Londons record-breaking backlog at the overburdened Crown Courts, figures have revealed. The Ministry of Justice said on Thursday that the national backlog has now reached 74,651 and could be as high as 100,000 by the end of 2029, leaving victims and witnesses waiting years for their day in court. Yet, migrant criminals are too often granted leniency, while natives are prosecuted for hate crimes, which, in many cases, have nothing to do with making threats, but everything to do breeching speech codes. Europes economies are being run into ditches. Reports Andrew A. Mitcha for 1945, February 15: Already in 2023, the United States GDP was significantly larger than the EUs, with the US having a GDP of $26.9 trillion compared to the EUs GDP of just over $15 trillion, with the gap between the EU and the US standing at 80 percent and continuing to increase. Whats causing the nosedives? Mitcha cites Europes ruling classs cultish devotion to radical green polices. Writes Mitcha: Europes economic crisis is more profound than the typical cyclical roadblocks that all developed economies face. Simply put, the green emissions targets imposed by the European Commission in the name of fighting climate change have all but crippled Europes industries and paralyzed Europes ability to compete in the marketplace. Nowhere is the relative competitiveness of EU and US economies better illustrated than in energy prices, with European costs two to three times higher rates than the United States, with taxes accounting for 23 percent of the price. Then theres the matter of war. Europes elites, like Americas, are obsessed with Russia. What is it about despots and wannabes need for wars? Didnt Orwell have something to say about that? He did, indeed. Penned Orwell: War against a foreign country only happens when the moneyed classes think they are going to profit from it. Per Investopedia, Russia's natural resources reserves are worth $75 trillion by Statista's estimate. The Ukraine war is useful in destabilizing Putins regime. If successful, then comes the booty. Another reason is that despots need boogeymen to distract their subjects from their miserable rule. Putin -- no altar boy -- fits the bill. Reports Metro, a London outlet, March 27: The European Union has told its almost 450 million citizens to prepare for war or natural disaster by assembling 72 hour survival kits. But as the UK ramps up defence spending and assembles a coalition of the willing to protect Ukraine, British preparedness for conflict is now under the microscope. Its curious that nations -- here we add Germany and France -- whose economies are faltering and whose militaries are 98-pound weaklings want to tangle with Russia, which owns a formidable conventional military and a nuclear weapons arsenal comparable to the U.S. We wonder, have Germans forgotten Stalingrad? Are the French hazy about Napoleons venture east? History forgotten is the stuff of hubris. Or is conceit trumping history? Betting here is that the Brits, French, and Germans hope that a dustup with the Russians in Ukraine would provoke Putin to lash out at a NATO country, thereby triggering Article 5 of NATOs treaty. An attack on one NATO member is an attack on all NATO members, goes the proviso. Do you see where this is going? Our NATO allies may wish to bait Putin into an attack that obligates U.S. intervention. Tangling with Russia would be folly surpassing the folly of World War I, which was the catalyst for Europes unraveling. Donald Trump is no ones fool. America First is certainly about reviving U.S. prosperity. That includes spreading the wealth to middle-income and working-class Americans, who, for a generation, have seen wages erode, jobs disappear, and costs rise. The American pie isnt just for coastal elites. The tariffs Trump will levy on EU members is, yes, about a fair shake for American producers and workers, but its as much about making the nation more secure and self-sufficient. Splendid isolation for the U.S. is long gone. Yet, in an increasingly dangerous world, theres greater urgency for the U.S. to be more independent. That doesnt mean eschewing trade, nor does it mean a go-it-alone approach to national security. Working with other countries based on overlapping interests provides important safeguards. But NATO membership is becoming problematic for the U.S. because Europe is becoming problematic. Trump has long suggested that. Consider this: If NATOs big three -- Britain, France, and Germany -- are veering toward despotism; if their economies are being run to ground by extreme green doctrine; if their elite continue importing alien -- and often hostile -- populations in compliance with globalist creed; if the big three want war with Russia well, then, where is the nexus of vital interests with a Trump-led U.S.? Divergence, not commonality, seem to be the future, barring upheavals across Europe that returns sanity to European affairs. Some may claim that disentangling from Europe now may be premature. Tomorrow, though, it may be a necessity. J. Robert Smith can be found at X. His handle is @JRobertSmith1. At Gab, @JRobertSmith. He blogs occasionally at Flyover . Image: Derek Bennett Kilmar Abrego Garcia is not a sympathetic poster child by any reasonable standard. But the medias sudden outrage over his deportation reveals more about its cynicism than any concern for due process. Garcia, a Salvadoran national deported last month and now detained in El Salvadors terrorism confinement centerCECOTis being recast by CNN and its ideological allies as a victim of Trump-era cruelty. The media minders tell us he is a Maryland husband, a devoted father, and a community fixture. Omitted from the headlines? Federal authorities have alleged links between Garcia and MS-13the brutal cartel infamous for machete murders, child trafficking, prostitution, and transnational violence. Thats not a minor footnote. Yet CNN, in its April 1 report, seems far more concerned that the Trump administration refused to provide evidence to the press than with the possibility that a violent gang member was living comfortably in suburban Maryland. Their indignation boils down to this: the Trump administration didnt send over a dossier of classified intelligence and investigation reports for CNNs legal analyst to comb through on live TVthen dismiss as woefully insufficient, no matter how comprehensive it is. And CNN is not alone in inserting this refrain into the teleprompter or the story. Its become an incessant chorus across the legacy media whenever Trump-era immigration enforcement is discussed: No matter the threat, we demand the receipts. Lets be blunt: the Trump administration owes the press absolutely nothing when it comes to intelligence sharing or the factual underpinnings of enforcement actionsespecially when ongoing investigations or extradition procedures are involved. Ill say it again for the folks in the back of the room: not one thing. This is a fundamental principle of law enforcement. No administrationRepublican or Democratshould be expected to lay out its hand for editorial boards before taking national security actions, particularly when that action involves a suspected member of a recognized terrorist group. When its required, the presentation of evidence occurs before the appropriate channels in our immigration systemnot in a press release or press conference. To do otherwise would be reckless, if not criminally negligent. But the demand for evidence isnt really about transparency. Its a contemptuous political rituala means of discrediting any enforcement action taken against someone who checks the right ideological boxes. Illegal immigrant. Protected identity group. Claims a family connection. Thats the trifecta. The narrative writes itself: How could a man with a wife and a disabled child possibly be aligned with a terrorist group? Apparently, the media would have us believe that gangbangers are celibate eremiteseunuchs who never marry, never father children, and certainly never exploit family ties as cover. The story writes itself, facts be damned. Sub out gang affiliation and sub in alignment with Hamas, and you have Mahmoud Khalil. And by painting with such broad strokes, the media shamelessly attempts to impugn all immigration enforcement actionsturning every lawful removal into an act of unimaginable cruelty. Now, contrast this with how the press treated Joe Biden. For years, concerns over Bidens cognitive misfirespublic lapses, verbal confusion, and blank stareswere dismissed as harmless quirks. Instead, the ever-loyal legacy media parroted the insider narrative that President Biden was sharper than ever and ran circles around his staff. Where were CNNs insistent demands for complete neurological workups? For unredacted health records? For a public accounting before he stepped into high-stakes diplomacy or nuclear command authority? They didnt come, and they werent going to. When the narrative favors the left, evidence is an afterthought. The deeper issue here isnt the individual case of Kilmar Garcia, though one hopes justice is doneand despite the hue and cry from the media outrage machine, it may already have been. The media believe that access equals authority. In their view, no action is legitimate unless its first greenlit by the opinion desks at CNN, The Atlantic, and The New York Times. When the Biden administration bungled immigration entirely, it was framed as a complex humanitarian challenge. When Trump undertakes swift and certain action, its a national scandalunless he declassifies sealed intelligence files for Anderson Cooper. And make no mistake about it: had the evidence been shared discreetlysay, over an encrypted platform like Signalthe media would be triggered by that too. The real objection here isnt about secrecy or transparency. At its core, this outcry is about a restoration of national sovereignty, exercised by the wrong president. If Garcia is even plausibly connected to the MS-13 world, then federal agents acted not with crueltybut with vigilance. This situation should not become a conversation about political optics or a Upton Sinclairstyle muckraking tome about how the system grinds down a hardworking family man caught in some overly broad immigration dragnet. It was about preventing another American tragedyone of the many committed by the thousands of dangerous gang members allowed into our nation willy-nilly by the prior administration. To the media, that may not matter. But it matters greatly to voters and law enforcement officers tasked with protecting their communities. Simply put, this administration has no duty to spoon-feed evidence to hostile networks who will reject it anyway. No evidence aired in the media? No duty. No apologies. Charlton Allen is an attorney, former chief executive officer, and chief judicial officer of the North Carolina Industrial Commission. He is the founder of the Madison Center for Law & Liberty, Inc., editor of The American Salient, and the host of the Modern Federalist podcast. X: @CharltonAllenNC Image from Grok. Its time. Youve been procrastinating for what seems like forever, but now its time to have the talk with your child. You tell them that you love them, that you care about them, that you respect them. And now its time to prove it. No, Im not talking about the sex talk. Im talking about the college talk. For the sake of their own welfare, you have to tell them the truth. That for the most part, college has become a scam and that only under very specific circumstances would you be willing to help them pay for it. Youll tell them that the narrative regarding the value of a college education that has stood for hundreds of years is no longer applicable. It is, quite simply, no longer true that you must go to college to have a successful career. It is no longer the case that the vast majority of employers demand that you have a four-year degree in order to be hired. The days are gone where you must have a college education in order to be accepted in society as an elite thinker/intellectual. The reason that this narrative is vanishing before our very eyes is clear. The efficacy of a college education has been drastically reduced in recent years. You will explain to them that we are currently in the midst of a shifting social paradigm. Although theres a lag time between the reality of this phenomenon and its public acknowledgement, you are smart enough to see that it is here. Spending a large portion your retirement nest egg to have your child indoctrinated into a rabid leftwing ideological cult simply isnt a good investment for either of you. The previously referenced narrative includes the suggestion that it is your duty as a parent to send your child to college, and the associated guilt in not doing so. Dont fall for this illusion. Most high school kids have little or no idea what they want to do with their lives. Your kid will probably put up a fight in this regard because they want to enjoy the college experience. Today, this can be interpreted as them wanting a four year, all expenses paid vacation on your dime. Dont fall for it. Be the adult. Unless your child has a very specific game plan for their future, spending a couple of hundred thousand dollars for them to find themselves is a really dumb idea. What Your Child Will Experience If You Make This Mistake As a college professor of 23 years, (18 years full time and five years as an adjunct) it is excruciatingly painful to have to say this. But say it we must if we are ever to resolve this problem. The powers that be at the majority of universities in this country are nothing short of snake oil salesmen. In recent years, admissions standards have fallen and in turn, academic rigor is at an all-time low. The acquisition of marketable skills necessary for a successful career has become a distant memory. As these institutions struggle to stay afloat, these charlatans are inexplicably doubling down on their radical political agenda. Student complaints that they are forced to take courses that they neither want nor need go unanswered. Free speech is suppressed, and groupthink has taken over virtually all campuses. Your child will not be taught how to think, theyll be taught what to think. They will be brainwashed into believing that they are either the oppressed or the oppressor, neither of which will serve them well going forward. They will be purposefully molded into lazy, enabled individuals, ensuring a future of mediocrity. Radical left-wing tenets that they will be inundated with will destroy any competitive spirit and optimism that they might have possessed prior to being exposed to this environment. Studies definitively show that they will have worse mental health coming out of college than when they entered. Diversity of thought has been all but destroyed on college campuses across America. Academic integrity is but a distant memory as cheating is virtually condoned in the name of equity. Research done at our nations universities has become a complete scam. The scientific method, once the benchmark process used for the acquisition of knowledge has, in most disciplines, succumbed to the pressures of political orthodoxy. Research performed through the lens of DEI, for example, can and will only lead to preordained results. Simply put, truth has taken a back seat to political brainwashing in our nations schools. Alternatives What if your child seems to know what they want to do with their career and that choice necessitates a college degree? In this case, I would suggest having them attend a community college in your state for two years and then transferring to a public university, also in your state. This way, you can minimize the financial impact as well as somewhat mitigate the intellectual damage that your child would incur at most private liberal arts colleges or universities. Most state universities will accept virtually all graduates from community colleges in their state. In-state tuition is a fraction of out-of-state tuition. To pay a private college/university $75k+ per year to bend your kids mind into a pretzel is a ridiculous notion. A bad deal is when you throw your money away on something that is useless. A horrible deal is when you throw your money away by paying someone to abuse your child. Which is exactly what will happen if you make the wrong decision here. Practically, employers are increasingly not hiring college graduates. Today it can actually hurt your chances of procuring many jobs to claim that you have a degree from a liberal college or university. This is because many employers dont want to deal with the baggage that comes with most recent college graduates. The mentality of entitlement, lack of work ethic, and absence of marketable skills is too much to bear for someone who simply needs a specific job to be done in a competent manner. The current college-to-employment pipeline model is broken. The vast majority of 18-year-old kids have no idea what they want to do with their lives and wont know for some time. We know that their brains are not fully developed until around age 25. Do your child and your bank account a favor. Give them the baptism by fire that they so richly deserve, and that most college students spend their college years avoiding like the plague. Send them into the workplace to get experience in a couple of disciplines that they think they might enjoy and thrive in before considering sending them to college. Dont overlook the possibility of trade schools. They are a wonderful way to obtain skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. It doesnt make you a bad parent to refrain from spending an enormous amount of money to send your child to one of these indoctrination camps. It makes you a loving and smart one. Yes, its time for the talk. Going forward, youll both be happy that you did. Image: AT via Magic Studio As we approach Passover a holiday commemorating our exodus from danger to freedom we are once again reminded that the Jewish people remain a target. Just this week, Israels National Security Council issued a grave warning: Iranian agents and affiliates of ISIS are actively planning to target Jewish and Israeli tourists over the holiday period. It is a chilling reality, but not a surprising one. Those of us who work daily with the communities of Judea and Samaria have long understood that for Jews, security is not a seasonal concern; it is a daily necessity. In Judea and Samaria, our brothers and sisters live under constant threat from hostile neighbors and coordinated terror efforts. Despite this, they have built thriving towns, schools, synagogues, and businesses. Theyve done so by embracing a culture of proactive vigilance, community-based security, and unshakable faith. It is this model, refined over decades, that holds vital lessons for Jewish communities across the Diaspora. One Israel Fund supports these communities with critical infrastructure: thermal surveillance systems, emergency medical gear and facilities, perimeter lighting systems, security patrol vehicles, and (of equal importance) emergency response training. Every member of each community is expected to be aware, alert, and ready to respond. Civilians participate in first-response teams. Local patrols work in tandem with the IDF. There is no someone else will handle it attitude because they know whats at stake. This culture of shared responsibility doesnt come from fear. It comes from strength. Its the understanding that Jewish survival has never been guaranteed; its been earned, defended, and preserved by those who refused to be passive. That same mindset is urgently needed in the United States and around the world. Since October 7, Jewish communities in the Diaspora have experienced an unprecedented escalation of antisemitism and threats. From campus unrest to synagogue vandalism to assaults on the streets, the false sense of distance from danger has been shattered. And now, with coordinated Iranian and ISIS terror plots targeting Jews abroad, we must all recognize that the threat is not over there. Its here. And everywhere. We cannot afford to treat this moment like just another holiday. We cannot afford to believe that it wont happen here. The Jews of Judea and Samaria never had that luxury, and neither do we. What we can do what we must do is take a page from their playbook. We must take communal security seriously not as an afterthought, but as a pillar of Jewish continuity. We must support organizations and institutions that train volunteers, fortify synagogues and schools, and engage in serious threat assessment. We must shift from reactive to proactive equipping ourselves with tools, training, and the resolve to be first responders in our own communities. We must work with our local authorities in helping them identify and fortify weak points in our local institutions. The systems One Israel Fund has helped to install in communities in Judea and Samaria are not theoretical. Theyve saved lives. Theyre scalable, adaptable and applicable to Jewish communities around the world. This Passover, as we unite and reflect upon our journey from slavery to freedom, we must recognize that freedom comes with responsibility. It must be defended. It must be secured. It must never be taken for granted. Let us not wait for tragedy to act. Let us learn from those who live with this reality every day. Let us honor their courage by adopting their vigilance so that wherever Jews gather, from the hills of Samaria to the streets of Brooklyn, we are prepared, protected and proud. Scott M. Feltman is the executive vice president of One Israel Fund, a North American nonprofit organization dedicated to the welfare and safety of Jewish communities in the biblical heartland of Israel. Image via Pxbarn. Have you noticed that the left operates in predictable patterns? Leftists all suddenly start using the same words. They all suddenly seize upon the same tactics. And they all suddenly show up to pre-planned protests that all look the same for the media. All over the country and the world lefties have seized upon the idea of attacking the private property of normal people as some bizarre form of resistance. What began with firebombings of Tesla dealerships has morphed into lefties vandalizing normal peoples private property as though normal people are responsible for something Elon Musk has done. Our suspicions that all of this is being funded are being confirmed, with pre-planned protests that are to spring to life this weekend. Lefties are all moving in lockstep. They ironically keep on keying fascistic leftist symbols onto Teslas a case of projection on steroids. And theyve somehow convinced themselves that these actions against private property are virtuous, with the X account TeslaDashCam offering the latest in videos of lefties losing it around Teslas. Even worse, the fascist far left has moved from firebombing dealerships and keying cars to assaulting people. On Saturday, police arrested a Portland man after he allegedly pointed a laser inside a Tesla dealership during a protest, injuring the eyes of one of the employees. 27-year-old Davis Nafshun has been charged with two counts of unlawful use of a weapon, two counts of attempting to commit a felony, and misdemeanor charges of menacing and reckless endangerment. On top of all this, were all in for some more astroturf action this weekend, because the far left is planning for protests that curiously use the anti-anti-communist tropes of the past. Back in the days when the far left wanted to support communist Fidel Castro, they came up with the ever-clever hands off trope to lend a measure of plausible deniability to the proceedings. So instead of openly supporting communism, they could simply say they were calling for hands off Cuba. This goes so far back that it even has a connection to Lee Harvey Oswald. In later years, the left resurrected this little trope to support the oppressive regime of Nicolas Maduro, with a modified reprise of the trope, hands off Venezuela, while pretending not to support an authoritarian socialist. Lefties have dusted off the old trope for this weekend. Thanks to the TOR Project, the Wayback Machine, and the archives web page capture, we can look into their web pages and see what they have planned, as well as look back at previous web pages to see how these plans were developed. Indivisible.org seems to be one of the bigger players in the far-left fascism space these days, projecting on all thrusters their collectivist ideals. The site features a curious notice: Indivisible.org is a joint website of Indivisible Project and Indivisible Action. Indivisible Project is a registered 501(c)(4). Indivisible Action is a Hybrid Political Action Committee. They are separate organizations. If you search, you can find out how they have an event toolkit for reimbursements and to reimburse group members for purchases. This is ostensibly for expenses, but money is extremely fungible and can be used wherever its needed. But the main item youll find on the Indivisible site is a link to the pre-planned protest this Saturday, April 5. Back on March 25, 2025, Yahoo news sported this headline: Protests against Trump and Musk spring to life with a mass demonstration set for April 5. This is touted as Hands off!, National Day of Action, Saturday, April 5. These have their own planning history, with a first public appearance on March 15, 2025. Its also fascinating that the ever so unbiased and objective media are falling all over themselves to offer free advertising to something that hasnt even taken place yet. Axios: What to know about Saturdays nationwide Hands Off! anti-Trump protests. Boston.com: What to know about the protest against Trump and Musk planned for Boston Common on April 5 Hands Off! protests against Trump planned nationwide for April 5. What to know in Michigan. Hands Off! protest: April 5 could see massive turnout for rallies against Trump and Musk in all 50 states. Heres what to know Hands Off! march in Louisiana to protest President Trump and Elon Musk. What to know. Newsweek: What to Know About Nationwide Hands Off Protests on April 5. Phoenixs Hands Off protest at the Capitol: What to know USA Today Network: Trump, Elon Musk Hands Off protests: What to know about April 5 Florida rallies Washingtonian: What to Know About the April 5 Anti-Trump Protest in DC Remember, all of this was supposed to spring to life spontaneously. But when you look behind the scenes, youll find that these are planned well in advance and financed with plenty of free advertising from the supposedly objective national socialist media. That is what amounts to grassroots when it comes to the fascist far left. D Parker is an engineer, inventor, wordsmith, and student of history, former director of communications for a civil rights organization, and a long-time contributor to conservative websites. Find him on Substack. Image: JoslynLM via Flickr, CC BY 2.0. Tariffs are bad for business. They harm the international division of labor and drive consumer prices upward. Their comeback signals that we are living in an era dominated by politics. A new age of power politics has begun. Donald Trump communicates loudly, sometimes shrilly. Naming April 2 -- the start of an aggressive U.S. tariff program -- Liberation Day fits the White Houses harsh strategy since he took office. Trading partners like the European Union react with shock, threatening countermeasures to the 10 percent base tariff meant to mirror others barriers. Leaders like Argentinas Javier Milei and Mexicos Claudia Sheinbaum signal concessions, bowing to the threat. Yet Trumps rhetoric hides a deeper issue: The U.S. faces a double deficit -- trade and fiscal balances deep in the red, eroding its industrial base. Tariffs and tax cuts aim to end the Triffin Dilemma, where the worlds reserve currency issuer must run a trade deficit to supply global liquidity. Thats the core goal. Trade Wars and EU Outrage History warns that tariffs often spark trade wars, damaging economies. Free trade alone enables specialization for optimal market supply. But were not in a textbook economy -- were at a geopolitical turning point with raw power politics. The EUs reaction is predictably fierce. After trips by Emmanuel Macron and Keir Starmer, the EU Commission vows retaliation. Welcome to the trade war! Yet their outrage raises eyebrows. The EU built itself on coal and farm subsidies, wielding a massive subsidy machine for industrial ambitions. Outsiders entering its market face regulatory barriers masked as harmonization, weakening competition and hiking prices. The EUs Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) exemplifies this. Meat and dairy from third countries hit tariffs and standards -- officially for consumer safety, but really to protect local producers. The OECD says non-tariff barriers account for 60 percent of EU protectionism, far beyond visible tariffs. In industry, like autos, 10 percent tariffs and tailored rules shield firms like Volkswagen, forcing U.S. or Asian rivals to bear high costs and compete at a disadvantage. The EUs Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), starting 2026, taxes imports from lax-climate nations -- sold as climate action, but a clear protectionist tool. In tech, the GDPR curbs U.S. giants like Google while boosting European firms. This isnt free trade -- its calculated isolation. U.S. Strategy vs. EU Hypocrisy The U.S. seeks to shrink its trade deficit and rebuild industry, betting on tech, energy autonomy, and open markets to lure capital, even if consumers suffer short-term. Trumps challenge should push Europe to rethink its ways. But the EUs indignation rings hollow. Its long used subtle barriers -- standards, bureaucracy, and sectoral tariffs -- to fend off rivals. The CAP, for instance, isnt about safety but shielding farmers. CBAMs CO2 penalties are less about climate and more about punishing outsiders, while GDPR tilts the digital field toward European players. The EUs protectionism hides behind noble labels, but consumers pay with higher prices and less choice. The U.S. accepts trade-offs to break its deficit trap, while the EU clings to a failing vision. Brussels green, deindustrialized dream crashes against reality: a growth crisis and stagnant productivity. Europe should see this as a wake-up call to return to market principles and open trade. Yet that requires a radical shift in Brussels and beyond -- unlikely given entrenched habits. The U.S. holds advantages with its tech edge and energy independence, positioning it to weather this storm better. Europe, meanwhile, risks being exposed as its economic weaknesses glare under the spotlight of this clash. Well see how this unfolds. The U.S. bets on reviving its base, accepting consumer pain for long-term gain. Europe must decide if itll keep posturing or face its own contradictions. For now, the trade war tests both sides, but the EUs double standards -- decrying tariffs while quietly wielding its own -- undermine its moral stance. Image: AT via Magic Studio Under normal circumstances, Mexicos official recognition of the State of Palestine last week could be considered fair. However, we are not dealing with normal circumstances, as there is no Palestinian state currently in existence. Perhaps this move by Mexico is intended to fall in line with other Latin American states or to counter U.S. president Donald Trumps pro-Israel stance, or possibly it is payback for Washingtons tariffs. Whatever the reason is, this move is not only a reversal of Mexicos position, but a clear misnomer. In its declaration of solidarity with the Palestinian Arabs, the Mexican Foreign Ministry stated its commitment to a two-state solution as the only viable path toward peace between Israel and Palestine. Yet no Mexican official bothered to ask the question, What if the state is another radical, dictatorial, terrorist state? Could Mexico live with a terrorist state that would be a stones throw away from its population centers especially after a massacre like that of October 7? The P.A. is a dysfunctional entity that encourages terror against Israel by employing a scheme known as Pay to Slay. That is, payments are made to the families of those Palestinian Arab killers who murder Israelis and who have been caught and imprisoned by Israel. Mahmoud Abbass Fatah movement, which he presides over in addition to the P.A., has been involved in terror attacks against Israel for nearly six decades, killing Israeli civilians and soldiers. Abbas never condemned the brutal murder of Israelis on October 7, and his and his regimes ideology differs little from that of Hamas. Mexicos foreign minister, Alicia Barcena, said, This recognition reflects Mexicos consistent position in favor of peace, justice, and international law. We believe that the recognition of Palestine contributes to a more balanced and fair negotiation framework in the Middle East. I wonder what makes Alicia Barcena believe that recognition of Palestine will contribute to a more balanced and fair negotiation framework. In 2008, Mahmoud Abbas had the perfect opportunity to assert Palestinian self-determination and statehood when Israels thenprime minister, Ehud Olmert, made far-reaching concessions to the Palestinian Arabs. Abbas refused to pronounce an end to the conflict, nor would he consent to making peace with Israel as a price for statehood. Undoubtedly, he feared assassination by his own people. In September 2015, Abbas shined new light on the breakdown of the potentially history-altering round of 2008 peace talks, saying that he rejected an offer from Israels Ehud Olmert which included placing Jerusalems Old City under international control because he was not allowed to study the map. In fact, Olmert did show him the map, and Abbas simply made it his excuse. Abbas has since regretted bolting the negotiations. He unquestionably realized that unless he was able to extract from Israel an agreement on the return of those refugees who had fled during Israels War of Independence, a step that would simply end the existence of the Jewish state, he would be doomed. What the Mexican government, along with other Latin American and some European countries who have recognized a Palestinian state, do not realize is that the insistence on the return of Palestinian Arab refugees to Israel is a ploy to end Israels existence and contravene the legitimate and recognized right of self-determination for the Jewish people in their ancestral homeland. Israel clearly understands their objective. The P.A. and Hamas will never agree to an end of conflict compromise or make peace deal unless their condition of the right of return is realized. Additionally, and often overlooked, is the Islamic religious obligation to restore any land once conquered by Islam (as was done by the caliphs of the 7th century) to the bosom of the Islamic umma (nation). The Israeli Embassy in Mexico expressed deep disappointment over the decision, claiming that it would hinder peace efforts and encourage unilateral actions. Israels Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Mexicos ambassador for clarification and expressed hope that Mexico would reconsider its position. That was the genteel diplomatic reaction. How do you explain the Arab-Muslim mindset to nonMiddle Easterners, such as the Mexican government, that according to Islam, there is a religious imperative to retrieve any land that was once conquered by Muslim invaders (including Spain)? Or that the Palestinian Arabs do not believe that Israel has the right to exist, nor that the Jews have the right to self- determination? Mexicos decision not only is misguided, but also supports dangerous forces that would lead to a terror state. Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexicos president, who was born Jewish, has expressed support for the creation of a Palestinian state inside Israels borders. On June 1, 2025, Mexico stands to elevate the Palestinian mission in Mexico City to an embassy. The U.S. and key European Union countries have abandoned the two-state solution in the aftermath of Palestinian Arab actions and behavior. Mexicos recognition of Palestine and its rhetoric about balanced and fair negotiation, and a two-state solution, will only encourage Palestinian Arab unilateralism, intransigence, and deadly terror. Image via Pexels. One can be conservative and still disagree with some aspects of President Trumps administration on tariff implementation. Indeed, within the administration there was disagreement over the level of tariffs and whether they are just a negotiation tactic. Apparently, contradicting some aides, particularly Peter Navarro, President Trump (who is very flexible) said he is open to negotiations. One can even be liberal and agree, at least in principle, that free trade should be fair trade. Even the UAW head, Shawn Fain, supports Trumps auto tariffs. Perhaps even more eye-opening is that Nancy Pelosi, in 1996, opposed Most Favored Nation trade status for China. She was a regular congresswoman at the time, but could have been auditioning to be trade representative for Trump. Back in the late 80s, Trump employed the same economic nationalism arguments as he does today, employing the most beautiful word in the dictionary, as a counter to trade deficits. Nancy also presented a nationalistic, even antagonistic, demeanor compared to Trumps fair approach. She shrilly exposed our growing trade deficit and the resultant economic hardships for Americans. While Nancy, and other liberals, agree in principle with fair trade, the ubiquitous AI chatbots agree on some of the Trump administrations implementation. Some zealous detractors maintain that the tariff pricing was founded upon a deficit divided by exports formula that is, divide a countrys trade deficit by their total exports to the U.S., then halve that number to arrive at a discounted reciprocal tariff. The White House denies that, and has published their actual tariff calculations here. Apparently, asking AI agents for assistance in calculating trade levels that even the playing field yields results that resemble the deficit divided by exports formula. Great we are using efficient AI, just as Elon Musk is at DOGE. Whats wrong with that? AI agents, after all, dont waffle as much as economists. Even their hallucinations are greatly subsiding, and they are much smarter than econo-missed twits. Interestingly, ChatCPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok provided remarkably consistent answers when prompted for a way to solve trade deficits. The results are even more compelling when one considers that the respective leaders of ChatGPT (Altman) and Grok (Musk) are feuding. Their AI visions and training paradigms are different. The training that produces the AI chatbots large language models is different. Grok is designed for real-time data access and insights. Musk, as is his wont, seeks to understand the universe, with Grok guiding the way. Apparently, it is also proficient at calculating formulas to achieve fairer trade. It would be negligent to not use that resource. ChatGPT is more a general-purpose text generator, but is also getting proficient with image and video creation. Despite a different paradigm, it arrives at similar answers on tariff levels that will help to resolve trade imbalance, as do Gemini and Claude. The rare agreement between Trump, Nancy, and the chatbots, suggests that our government needs more AI-enabled efficiency and insights, so it can do with fewer blabbering econo-missed types. Image: Free image, Pixabay license. Most Americans probably assume that the European Union is a benign organization that merely advocates for the broad interests of its member countries. Although this may have been the case in the decades after the birth of the EU following the end of World War II, it certainly is not the case today. Today, the EU is a 27-member bloc with a collective GDP of $18.6 trillion, which aims to update the global economic order by inflicting its radical leftist agenda upon the United States and countries throughout the world. This is not speculation -- it is already happening. Unbeknownst to nearly all Americans, the EU recently passed one of the most far-reaching laws in modern history: the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). In short, the CSDDD seeks to impose European Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards upon nearly all businesses and entities involved within the vast EU economic universe. The sheer breadth of American businesses, both large and small, that will be forced to operate under the rules of the CSDDD, means that the United States would basically become economically subservient to Europe. Jack McPherrin and Justin Haskins, who wrote the definitive policy study on ESG and helped foster the defeat of ESG in the United States, understand the implications of the CSDDD better than anyone. They recently released an analysis of the CSDDD, aptly titled, The European Unions Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive Is a Direct Threat to U.S. Sovereignty, Free Markets, and Individual Liberty. According to McPherrin and Haskins, EU policymakers deliberately designed the CSDDD to change business practices around the world, rather than only within the jurisdiction of EU member states. They also note that the CSDDD will increase prices and compel U.S. corporations to engage in various climate change edicts, including their absurd fantasy to end all use of fossil fuels. The CSDDD is so Orwellian that it might seem like political parody. To some degree, weve become numb to these audacious power grabs from the likes of the United Nations, the World Health Organization, or the World Economic Forum. By mandating vaccines, telling us to eat bugs, nagging us to stop using fossil fuels, and wanting to micromanage every aspect of our lives, the globalists have lost credibility. They have become buffoons, subject to mockery and ridicule, which they rightfully deserve. But it would be a mistake to underestimate them. Perhaps theyve learned from their recent follies and will rebrand their future schemes in a more persuasive manner. Were lucky that President Donald Trump, leader of the free world, is skeptical of globalism and is unafraid to confront the EU when he believes U.S. interests are under threat. In fact, Trump is already battling the EU over their tariff and trade policies. Most importantly, it appears that high-level Trump administration officials are aware of the CSDDD and reject its implementation. On the bright side, this isnt likely to happen anytime soon. Fortunately, the European Union bureaucracy moves at a glacial pace. So far, the EU has passed the CSDDD. Next, it must be transposed into law by the member states. Most likely, this will take time. Of course, it would be unwise for the United States to sit idly and wait for nations like Germany and France to craft their specific CSDDD national laws. Instead, the United States should issue a simple message to the EU asserting that America completely opposes all aspects of the authoritarian CSDDD. The United States was born only after seeking independence from European tyranny. During our short history, weve saved Europe from tyrannizing the world twice. As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, we will continue to defend freedom and fight tyranny. Chris Talgo (ctalgo@heartland.org) is editorial director at The Heartland Institute. Image: AT via Magic Studio Looking at Europe today, we can visualize what we will face in the next 2-5 years. Look no further than the immigrant penetration of major European cities like London, with 37% of its total population being recent immigrants, a majority in some area communities. 18% of the German population are recent immigrants. Madrid and Rome, each with approximately 1.6 million immigrants. Amsterdam doesnt even want to know how many immigrants they host, though similar to other major European cities, city leaders state. In America, Southern California already has a majority or near majority immigrant population. Jersey City stands out, with 41.2% of its population made up of recent immigrants, and New Yorks 14th Congressional District, led by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has close to a majority of immigrants. These numbers are expected to grow yearly regardless of Trumps desire to stop the invasion. A curious thing has happened in lockstep with Western nations admitting ever more people who do not aspire to be culturally absorbed. Hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of young people, have become the de facto advocates for these immigrants, with no thought to their ability to contribute to society or their desire to conduct themselves civilly and productively. YouTube screen grab. Couple this with Democrats hard left shift that sees no sign of abating, and what you can readily see is the three-legged stool composed of anti-American rhetoric, mass immigration of uneducated individuals, and strident internationalism. We can visualize a day when Europe, America, and the remaining capitalist countries will end if effective countermeasures are not employed. Few comprehend how progressives have rapidly and effectively overcome the Wests history of pluralism, law and order, and individual rights, all while attacking Americas Constitution, diminishing its promise, infiltrating our court system, and sullying the reputation of our economic system quickly and effectively. One example out of England, however, is a microcosm into how young peoples minds are brainwashed by false narratives reinforced through coordinated messaging online, much of it funded by leftist transnational entities. According to the sympathetic Slate report, British police arrested 21-year-old Zoe Rogers for causing millions of dollars of property damage at a factory in Bristol that is not an arms manufacturer but is managed by an Israeli arms manufacturer. Young Zoe, says her mother, has always had a massive social justice streak, which took the form of going online and finding a radical anti-Israel protest organization: Then Zoe found Palestine Action, a U.K.-based pro-Palestinian protest network, and began talking about direct action. Zoe said, Protesting is like asking the government to dig a well. Direct action is just digging the well, and daring the authorities to stop you, Clare recalled. At that time, she clearly decided that she was not afraid to go to prison. In August 2024, Zoe, alongside a group from Palestine Action, hired a repurposed prison van and rammed through the gates to break into a factory in Filton, Bristol, run by Elbit Systems, Israels largest arms manufacturer. The Filton 18, as they have become known, used sledgehammers and axes to cause over $1 million in damage. Seven of the protesters, including Zoe, were arrested on site. Since then, she has been in prisonand will be for the foreseeable future. The war on the Elbit factory wasnt Palestine Actions only initiative. One recent action saw a man scale Big Ben and fly a Palestinian flag for 16 hours. Free the Filton 18, the protester screamed. Soros, Rockefeller, and Pritzker fund Palestine Action. Additionally, all three contributed to Susan Crawfords recent win in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race. A hodgepodge of other Democratic organizations, including The Tides Foundation, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Soros-controlled Open Society Foundation, to name but a few, have been closely tied to other initiatives that take aim at the West. Closely observing many protest groups here and in the U.K. reveals coordination at multiple financial and operational levels. Pick your protest, Palestine, climate change, anti-forestry, immigration, DOGE, healthcare, gender, and more, and you will find the same entities and people. Why? Together, it would not be hard to claim that these organizations are working for the destruction of Western civilization. Their chosen vehicle is to turn the Zoes of the world into guided missiles that we are to pity as they destroy property, dreams, lives, and, at a fundamental level, the underpinnings that we as a society rely on. We need you, those who stand to lose the most, to turn away from concentration on the oftentimes unimportant pursuits that dominate our lives and instead realize that we are all in a war that will determine our future freedom. All must pay due attention. Author, Businessman, Thinker, and Strategist. Read more about Allan, his background, and his ideas to create a better tomorrow at www.1plus1equals2.com. It is probably safe to say that never before in the history of U.S. congressional hearings has a witness ever been so hard-pressed to defend an organization from criticismin this case involving inherent biaswhen it has so publicly and brazenly displayed it. However, National Public Radio (NPR) Chief Executive Officer Katherine Maher clearly found herself in just such a position on March 26 as she unsuccessfully attempted to shrug off the idea that her network did not have a consistent heavy left-leaning bias in its reporting. Her attempt to do so resulted in a public mauling. NPRs bias is so evident that anyone listening to it has to wonder if it is an arm of the Democrat Party. And, as if further proof beyond what it regularly broadcasts is necessary, it was provided after the hearing by a senior writer for the Washington Examiner. He shared the fact that a long-established NPR tradition on Independence Day had been abandoned by the network -- ironically one of the few acts of patriotism it had ever embraced. Traditionally, for 50 years, NPR had read the Declaration of Independence on its broadcasts every July 4th. But it implemented a change and stopped doing so, instead choosing to air a discussion as to why the document and its author, Thomas Jefferson, were racist. This has to be viewed as nothing more than a decision seeking to further appeal to its liberal base -- a decision comparable to undermining the sanctity of Christmas just to appeal to atheists. NPRs inherent bias was also underscored in a 2019 Pew survey that determined its audience was overwhelmingly (to the tune of 87%) Democrat. Yet despite this, the network is funded by taxpayers who should expect unbiased and accurate news reporting. Thus, the issue before Congress was whether taxpayers -- who obviously represent both major political parties -- should be funding an organization that is so committed to only one of them. And that impact is considerable as NPR syndicates programming to more than one thousand public radio stations across the U.S. In April 2024, a former NPR senior editor wrote an op-ed that further documented the liberal DNA within the radio stations bloodline. Claiming that diversity is its North Star, NPR must have a defective compass: its Washington, D.C. headquarters has an editorial staff that includes 87 Democrats but not a single Republican. While Maher testified that she has no editorial role at NPR, with an 87-0 Democrat Party representation on its staff, there is no need for her to contribute any liberal content. Probably overly frustrated by lawmakers criticism of NPR bias against which she was defenseless, Maher did throw a bone to critics. She admitted that the radio network made a mistake in failing to cover Hunter Bidens laptop story. Reviewing Mahers congressional testimony justifies terminating taxpayer funding of NPR due to its inherent one-sided liberal spin. The tariff trade war we are fighting with Canada recently caused our neighbor to the north to pay for anti-Trump billboards to be posted in twelve mostly Republican states and Washington D.C. It was a waste of money. Canada could have projected much more anti-Trump rhetoric by simply making a donation to NPR! Image: NPR In 15 first responders killed in Rafah, U.N. says; IDF orders mass evacuation (03/31/25), the Washington Post continues to display its anti-Israel animus. In this article, there are so many lies, distortions, and manipulations that the Post has outdone itself. The Post article once again took the word of individual Gazans, who are known to be under duress to toe the Hamas line. They took the word of the Gazan Health Ministry, which is known to fabricate casualty figures, often reporting the impossible: exact numbers of casualties moments after an attack. Their exact numbers are often found to be wrong, and the perpetrator of the attack is found to be wrong. For example, in the Al-Ahli Hospital bombing, a mere fraction of the casualty count was correct, and the perpetrator was Islamic Jihad, not Israel. Under these circumstances, where the Post has been led astray time after time by Hamas and the Gazans, one would think the Post would check and double-check claims before reporting from the terrorist enclave. But no why pass up an opportunity to smear Israel? So what if facts get in the way? The Post states that Israel broke the ceasefire with Hamas. But what really happened is that the ceasefire agreement expired, and an extension was not agreed upon. And Hamas refused to release any more hostages. Of course Israel will try to rescue its hostages. What country wouldnt do this? Nice manipulation of what happened, Washington Post. The Post was once known for its investigative reporting, but now the paper is quick to print anything to castigate Israel. In this story, there is a specific grievous charge: that Israel killed members of the Palestinian Red Cross and buried them in a mass grave. The IDF responded, but according to the Post, It did not provide evidence of the claim that militants were in the convoy and did not respond when asked why the first responders were buried in a mass grave. But did the Post ask the Gazans to provide evidence of their side of the story? No. In every aspect of the story, the Post took the word of the terrorist-run enclave over the Israeli democracy. The Post stated that Israels military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 50,000 people, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but says the majority of the dead are women and children. However, the assertion about women and children was contradicted by the Jerusalem Post article Hamas admits 72% of deaths are of combat-aged men as it quietly reduces civilian death toll report (04/02/25), which said, Hamas has previously claimed that 70% of casualties have been women and children, a claim no longer reflected in their recently updated lists, according to the research. Approximately 72% of fatalities between the ages of 1355 are men the demographic category aligns with Hamas combatants. So the Post is wrong again. In a conflict that is so contentious and often fought in the court of public opinion, it is imperative for media sources to be accurate, fair, and objective. The Post fails on all three counts. Image: Ron Cogswell via Flickr, CC BY 2.0. Summary: Amazon has added a requirement to purchase certain RTX 50-series GPUs, where you need to be a Prime member to complete the purchase. This Prime-exclusive access appears to apply to more than a few GPUs, including AMDs latest. Amazon Prime members will have an easier time getting NVIDIAs RTX 50-series GPUs thanks to a new exclusive access label Amazon has implemented. This new Prime-exclusive access also appears to apply to AMDs new RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT GPUs. If youre unaware, it hasnt exactly been easy to get your hands on the new GPU from NVIDIA or AMD. Both series of GPUs have launched just in the last couple of months, and if you were lucky enough to find one, it may not have been at MSRP. Much of that has been due to resellers. After using bots to snatch tons of stock, resellers would then scalp the GPUs for a higher price. Some companies, like ZOTAC, have done their part to try and combat this. Amazon is now doing its part to try and make it easier on consumers who want to find one of these GPUs. Amazon Prime members will have exclusive access to some RTX 50 and RX 9070 series GPUs If you have Amazon Prime and youre logged into your account, its easy to miss these offers. However, theres a good chance that any cards you see at MSRP or close to it, are included in these lockouts. I checked Amazon for a listing of this ASUS TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 5070 GPU in a Private Window where I wasnt logged in, and was told this was a Prime-Exclusive GPU. The same card, while logged in, didnt have any discernible labels that this was a Prime-exclusive product. However, Club386 found slightly different results searching for an AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT. Specifically, the Sapphire Pulse card. While logged in, the Sapphire Pulse had a small label below the price that stated it was exclusive for Prime members. When not logged in, it showed a label off to the right like in the screenshot below. There, you would also find a button to join Prime. Amazon is obviously trying to make it easier for consumers to find these GPUs. Its also likely using this as a way to get more people to join Prime. Some cards dont have this Prime membership requirement Its worth noting that this requirement for a Prime membership to purchase isnt applied to all the GPUs from either series. It also only seems to apply to the GPUs and not prebuilt PCs with these GPUs in them. Still, there are more than a few between both NVIDIA and AMD that seem to be Prime-exclusive. And this requirement to subscribe should help a little to curb the scalpers. At least to the point where they cant buy as much stock. There doesnt seem to be any confirmation on how long Amazon will keep this in place. That being said, it wouldnt be surprising if certain GPUs stayed like this for the foreseeable future. Amazon may also end up adding more models to the Prime-exclusive access. For now, the list is limited. But anything is better than nothing. Especially if you havent had much luck elsewhere when looking for this kind of tech. Summary: Despite Google previously insisting it did not have anything to do with immigration enforcement, recent documents suggest otherwise. A report from The Intercept reveals that Google is playing a role in the CBPs enforcement of the US-Mexico border, where the company will provide its cloud computing and AI tools. Remember when Google Clouds CEO Thomas Kurian told employees four years ago that the company had nothing to do with immigration enforcement at the southern border? It turns out it wasnt completely true. According to federal contracts reviewed by The Intercept, Google is using its AI cloud tech services to help Trump monitor the US-Mexico border. Googles AI-powered surveillance According to the report, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is revamping its aging camera towers in Arizona with machine learning upgrades. IBM and Equitus are supplying the smarts. IBM is providing its Maximo Visual Inspection software, and Equitus is providing its Terminator-esque Video Sentinel system. This software flags caravan-style movements and even labels people carrying backpacks as suspected mules. So, where does Google fit into all of this? While IBM and Equitus handle the AI models, Google provides the cloud solution called MAGE (ModulAr Google Cloud Platform Environment). CBPs video feeds go straight into Googles servers. It supports up to 100 simultaneous video feeds from six different sites all at once. From there, Googles AI cloud will provide the analysis that will help Trump monitor the US-Mexico border. Google downplays involvement Googles Public Sector boss, Jim Kelly, tried to downplay the companys involvement. Kelly basically suggested that the company isnt under contract. He also compares Google Cloud to buying hardware off a shelf. In this case, Google Cloud is not on the contract. That said, customers or partners can purchase Google Clouds off-the-shelf compute, storage, and networking products for their own use, much like they might use a mobile network or run their own computer hardware. However, as The Intercept notes, CBP is still running its surveillance data through Googles infrastructure. Since it requires a constant connection, that cannot happen without Googles knowledge. Lets not forget the potential privacy implications these systems have for border communities. Speaking to The Intercept, Dave Maass, director of investigations at the Electronic Frontier Foundation said, On top of the wasted tax dollars, border communities end up paying the price with their privacy, as demonstrated by the recent findings by the Government Accountability Office that CBP had failed to implement six out of six key privacy policy requirements. Summary: President Donald Trump has, yet again, move to delay the TikTok ban thats been looming for months. The app will have another 75 days in the States before the next ban or extension. TikTok is living on borrowed time, and it has been for months. Its been in danger of exile since the final days of the Biden administration, but Trump came in and extended its stay. Since then, several companies have put in their bid to buy the video-sharing platforms American business. Weve had companies like Amazon, Oracle, Perplexity trying to buy it. Even YouTube icon MrBeast has put together a group of investors to buy it. However, it seems that ByteDance, TikToks owner, is resistant to sell. This drama has been going on for over a year, but the company does not want to give up the goods. Selling TikToks American business will mean that all data collected on American citizens will be stored on U.S. soil. Not only that, but the company that owns TikToks American business will have a say over how its data is used. For example, Perplexity wants to fundamentally change how its search algorithm functions. The TikTok ban has been delayed yet again If you didnt know what an executive order is, then you will now, because ever since he returned to office, Trump has been firing them off almost as much as his frivolous tariffs. Weve seen a bunch of executive orders, and this next one makes the pile that much bigger. According to a new report, Trump signed an executive order to prolong TikToks stay in the U.S. by yet another 75 days while the Trump Administration tries to iron this out. Even though Trump said hed consider lowering the massive 34% tariff on Chinas goods if ByteDance sells TikToks U.S. stake, the company declined. This left Trump with only a few options. The last extension would have expired this weekend, so he signed the order to extend the deadline. This pushes it to mid-June. The administration hopes that it would come to some sort of agreement before then. Summary: TikTok faces a huge fine of 500 million fine in the EU. It is accused of sending user data to China. This comes just as the US pushes to ban TikTok over similar national security fears, with Trump even floating a new TikTok America deal to avoid a full ban. As if the US government didnt need another reason to ban TikTok, the social media site faces a huge fine in the EU for allegedly sending European users data back to China. Irelands data protection commission will issue a fine of more than 500 million before the end of the month. TikTok sending data to China This follows a complaint filed by the Austrian advocacy group Noyb earlier in January. The group named six Chinese companies. This includes TikTok, fashion retailer Shein, and Xiaomi, for unlawfully transferring user data from the EU to China. That being said, TikTok can appeal the fine in the Irish courts. However, the company hasnt commented on the report yet, so were not sure how it plans to proceed. The European Union has fined several other companies for privacy violations. This includes a fine of 1.2 billion against Meta and 746 million against Amazon. The fine of 500 million against TikTok is the third-highest fine under the GDPR laws. TikToks ban deadline is approaching One of the reasons TikTok is facing a ban in the US right now is because the US government cites national security concerns. ByteDance, a China-based company, owns TikTok, which makes the US government worry that China could access and study data collected from American users. However, the Chinese government has stated that it has never and will never compel companies or individuals to collect or provide data that violates the law. This doesnt mean that China has no other ways of accessing that data. That being said, the Trump administration is currently brokering a sale of TikTok. So far, Trumps latest plan involves the creation of a new company called TikTok America. US investors will own 50% of the company, while ByteDance and its investors will keep the remaining shares. This new company will license TikToks algorithm. This means that TikTok and ByteDance wont have to give up their proprietary algorithm completely. However, it is unclear when this deal will take place. The government set the deadline for the 5th of April, but with just one day left and no announcement, Trump might extend the deadline again. When it comes to smartphones, its no secret that the market is intensely competitive in China. Its so competitive in fact, that Chinese OEMs will not release or even hint at pricing until it is announced on stage. Youre likely aware that companies will give publications like AndroidHeadlines the news early under embargo (an agreement not to talk about said news until a certain date and time), but with Chinese OEMs, pricing is never included. Most of the time, we dont know the pricing until it is announced at the end of the event. This has led to Chinese OEMs like vivo, OPPO, realme, HONOR, Huawei, Xiaomi and others to build some really compelling devices. OPPO is a personal favorite of mine, with the OPPO Find X8 Pro and Find N5. The upcoming Find X8 Ultra is also likely to be really impressive if its anything like its predecessor, the Find X7 Ultra. But you know what sucks? Americans miss out on all of these devices. Why? Because President Trump banned Huawei. On May 16, 2019, President Trump signed an Executive Order to effectively ban Huawei, not because of its phones, but because of its wireless networks business. This was a pretty sweeping ban, as it forced Huawei to cut off business ties with every US company. This included Google, Microsoft, Intel, Qualcomm, and even ARM (despite it being a British company). The ARM cutoff really hurt Huawei because ARM essentially licenses processor designs to companies like Qualcomm, Intel, and MediaTek. Without that, its almost impossible for Huawei to build its own chips something it has been doing already. This is a big reason why the chips in Huaweis smartphones are far behind the Snapdragon 8 Elite and Dimensity 9400. The Huawei Ban had a trickle-down effect This ban didnt just affect Huawei and its partners; it also affected other Chinese OEMs, companies like Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo, ZTE, and others. It really affected HONOR, as it was owned by Huawei. Luckily, Huawei did sell off HONOR, so it is now owned by Shenzhen Zhixin New Information Technology Co. Ltd, which is also a state-owned firm. This was part of the reason Huawei was banned. While Huawei was actually very close to being available on multiple carriers in the US, some of the other OEMs werent quite as close to entering the US. But they likely wanted to. Now that Huawei was banned and sanctioned, many of these companies want nothing to do with entering the US. But they will still send over their devices to Americans to review, including yours truly. Whenever Im meeting with these different companies, whether at a trade show like Mobile World Congress, or at their own product launch event, and I or someone else ask about them coming to the US, it basically just gets a laugh and then the usual corporate speak about never say never. The US is the third largest smartphone market, behind China and India, and having no market share of the US means that these companies could see some serious growth. Conspiracy theories suggest Apple and Samsung were pushing for the Ban There are some out there who subscribe to the conspiracy theory that Apple and Samsung used their lobbyists in Washington to help push the government into banning Huawei. While we havent seen any proof of that, it wouldnt be that crazy if that did happen. The smartphone industry is uber-competitive, and any leg up these companies can get on their competition is a win. Currently, in the US, theres Apple, Samsung, Motorola, Google and OnePlus, as far as smartphone makers go. TCL is also available in the US, but pretty sparingly. Now imagine if some of the Chinese OEMs like Huawei, HONOR and OPPO were available here in the US? That would drastically change things. Of course, OPPO is sort of already here in the US, through OnePlus, but OnePlus doesnt bring some of OPPOs best phones to the US, unfortunately. In the US, Apple holds a 57% market share, and Samsung holds a 23% market share, meaning that two companies control 80% of the smartphone market in the US. Google has just under 5%, Motorola at just under 4%, and, surprisingly, Xiaomi has almost a 2% market share in the US. Whats the real reason Huawei was banned from the US? The US had been trying to get rid of Huawei for well over a decade before it actually happened. Going all the way back to President Bushs time in office. The reason? Huawei is owned by the Chinese government, and the US believes that they are spying on Americans. Not from Huaweis phones. But from Huaweis networking equipment. Being state-owned is quite common in China, so this comes as no surprise. Huawei makes and deploys networking equipment, which was used in a lot of rural areas of the US, and it was also quite popular in China. And thats how the US believed Huawei was spying on Americans. However, the US did open investigations into Huawei plenty of times, and found nothing. Which is why it took so long to ban the company. Until President Trump signed the National Defense Authroization Act into law. This also hit ZTE, though they were selling phones with US technology to Iran and North Korea, so their ban made sense. But interestingly, ZTE was able to settle with the US and is now back selling their phones here in the US, while Huawei isnt. The US Smartphone Market has become stale, due to the Huawei Ban Even before the Huawei Ban, the US smartphone market was pretty stale, but we at least had some outside options that you could buy unlocked from Amazon and other retailers. Like Huawei, ZTE, nubia, and others. ZTE and nubia are still available here, but if you dont know about them, you likely would never see them anywhere in the US. They arent advertised and are only available on their website and on Amazon. Now, were stuck with OEMs giving us the same phone year after year after year. The iPhone? Its looked the same since the iPhone 12. Sure, there have been some upgrades here and there, including adding a 5x telephoto lens. But for the most part, the upgrades have been very minimal. The Galaxy S series has also seen very few upgrades over the last few years specifically the non-Ultra models. Now, just imagine if, when you went to your local AT&T or T-Mobile store, you had options of Xiaomi 15 Ultra, OPPO Find X8 Pro, vivo X200 Pro, and realme GT7 Pro, just to name a few. That would really change your decision on what phone to buy. Seeing the Find X8 Pro next to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, I really wonder how many people would choose the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Sure Samsung has the name recognition, but almost everything is better on the Find X8 Pro. As a reviewer, I actually get the chance to use a lot of these devices. In fact, Im currently using the OPPO Find N5, which is an amazing foldable device. Its super thin, light, and has some of the best foldable software on the market today. But, because it is not sold in the US, I dont get the same coverage on AT&T and T-Mobile with the Find N5 as I would with, say, a OnePlus 13. Trump didnt just hurt Huawei, his order hurt consumers and competition Competition is a good thing, even if youre part of the company that is in competition with another. Competition forces companies to make changes, forces them to be innovative, forces them to actually compete. Thats no longer a thing in the US, unfortunately. At least when it comes to smartphones. Think about it: what was the last major change that Samsung and Apple made to their phones? For Apple, it was probably adding the third camera lens on the iPhone 11. Or possibly switching that third lens over to a 5x tetraprism sensor on the iPhone 15 Pro Max. For Samsung? Its even harder, perhaps the Galaxy S20 Ultra, when they first debuted the Ultra name and its Space Zoom marketing for digital zoom. Since then, both manufacturers have been making pretty small changes year-over-year, and thats because they have virtually no competition. Sure, the US has Google Pixel, Motorola, OnePlus, and even TCL. But those are nowhere near as competitive. Google did do a pretty good job of being more competitive with the Pixel 9 series last year, but that momentum really only lasted through Q1. And while it made a dent in their market share, they gave a lot of that up in Q4. Of course, Google doesnt want to be too competitive because these companies are also their partners (except for Apple). Motorola is mostly focusing on the mid-range segment, in which they are doing quite well. Their foldable devices are also selling quite well. And somehow, they are able to escape any sanctions from the US. Since Motorola is technically now a Chinese OEM as it is owned by Lenovo. OnePlus isnt even available at carriers anymore. A big part of this is because of the major investment that is required by the carriers. TCL is mostly doing low-end phones, which wont grab the headlines, unfortunately. In the end, banning Huawei has forced other Chinese OEMs to rethink their plans of possibly coming to the US. And for most, thats not going to happen anytime soon, unfortunately. And because of this, we dont get to experience marvels like the tri-fold Mate XT. The MVNO market continues to grow steadily in the US. Companies outside the telecommunications market, such as cable providers, have entered the segment through this format. Furthermore, their arrival has had a significant impact on the performance and prices of traditional carriers. A new study has even revealed that US cable MVNOs offer the lowest total cost of ownership for flagship devices from brands such as Apple, Samsung, and Google. In the dynamic US telecommunications ecosystem, Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) are radically transforming the way mobile services are delivered, especially those supported by traditional cable companies. These virtual operators have experienced significant growth, reaching 36 million active subscribers in 2019 and projecting market growth from the current $70 billion to $147 billion by 2032. Their business model, which leverages existing infrastructure while focusing on user experience, has a lot to do with this. US cable MVNOs offer the lowest total cost of ownership for flagship phones in the US According to the analytics and consulting firm GlobalData, US cable MVNOs already offer the lowest TCO (total cost of ownership) on flagship phones from some of the major brands. TCO is the total of the required service cost (mandatory plans) and the devices monthly cost (what you pay for the phone alone). Basically, they offer the best value when it comes to acquiring devices. There are still factors to take into account, though. While MVNOs seem like the ideal option for everyone today, there are cases where MNOs (traditional carriers) might be a better fit for you. According to the report, Spectrum Mobile, Optimum Mobile, and Xfinity Mobile offer the lowest TCO in the US telecommunications industry. But how do they achieve this? What is an MVNO? A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) is a company that provides mobile telephony and data services without owning a network infrastructure. In the United States, these operators lease services from the countrys four major networks: AT&T Mobility, Boost Mobile, T-Mobile, and Verizon. This virtual nature is the fundamental difference from traditional operators, as MVNOs do not need to invest in expensive antennas, towers, or radio spectrum infrastructure. The ability to operate without their infrastructure allows MVNOs to focus exclusively on the customer experience. This frees them from the operational complexity associated with maintaining physical networks. The MVNO business model gives companies significant flexibility to design attractive commercial offers. In fact, MVNO plans are often highly customizable based on your usage. Companies can even target specific market segments potentially underserved by traditional carriers. How do they manage to offer lower prices? MVNOs most obvious competitive advantage lies in their considerably leaner cost structure than traditional operators. As mentioned above, they dont have to invest billions in network infrastructure. Thus, MVNOs eliminate the costs associated with building and maintaining cell towers, base stations, and acquiring radio spectrum. These substantial infrastructure savings allow them to adopt more aggressive pricing strategies. In other words, end-user bills reflect a portion of these savings. Additionally, many MVNOs have optimized their operations by completely digitizing their customer service and sales processes. This minimizes the need for physical stores and in-person support staff for greater operational efficiency. The emerging trend shows that various players are entering the MVNO market, from retailers to e-commerce giants, using cloud-based MVNE (Mobile Virtual Network Enabler) platforms to launch services in record time. These platforms facilitate entry into the telecommunications market for companies with no prior experience in the sector, allowing them to complement their core offerings with mobile services. The role of cable companies as MVNOs Traditional cable companies are in a privileged position to compete as MVNOs, thanks to their established customer base and existing network capabilities. By integrating mobile services with their television, broadband internet, and landline telephony offerings, they can create attractive convergent packages that increase customer loyalty and value. Many of these companies can leverage their existing infrastructure and resource-sharing agreements. These are similar to the fiber network sharing agreements entered into by other companies. Such agreements allow them to optimize costs and maximize operational efficiencies. Essentially, these US companies have been able to significantly diversify their product offerings. Furthermore, they already had an established user base to which they could offer service, without the cost of setting up expensive base stations or nationwide networks. Competitive advantages of MVNOs MVNOs main strength lies in their operational agility and capacity for innovation. Unconstrained by complex infrastructure management, they can focus entirely on improving the customer experience. They achieve this through highly customized commercial proposals. This flexibility allows them to quickly adapt to current consumer needs. Another significant advantage is their ability to target specific market niches that may not be sufficiently profitable for traditional operators. Different MVNOs often focus on particular segments: businesses, low-income assistance programs (Lifeline), or personal consumers with specific needs. Postpaid wireless players are attaching high-spend plan requirements to most device promotions. But the cable MVNOs target home internet customers with offers of free or low-cost mobile service and pair it with device promotions that are often just as competitive as the big three carriers, said Nicole Teasley, Senior Telecom Consumer Services Analyst at GlobalData. Cable MVNOs win the lowest total cost of ownership battle on plan costs alone and are poised to make big waves within their relatively massive broadband footprints. Accelerated digitalization and the implementation of software-based BSS (Business Support Systems) platforms allow MVNOs to launch services in record time, setting new standards for speed and adaptability in the sector. This agility will continue to be a key differentiating factor compared to traditional operators. Limitations and challenges Despite their numerous advantages, MVNOs face significant challenges. One major limitation is their dependence on third-party infrastructure, which can restrict their ability to fully control the quality of the service offered. As with fiber optics, where repairs require specialized tools and trained personnel, MVNOs depend on the ability and willingness of their host operators to resolve technical issues. Another significant disadvantage is the limited range of compatible devices. Many MVNOs tend to offer a more restricted range of phones, often older models or devices already discontinued by the major networks. This isnt that important if you typically purchase carrier-free phones on your own. However, some MVNOs offer a limited list of supported devices. Additionally, MVNOs generally have less control over network resource allocation. This can translate into slower speeds or lower traffic priority during periods of congestion compared to the host operator. Should you switch to MVNO? The easy answer to this question might be yes. However, there are more factors to consider before making the decision. Basically, it all depends on each users particular needs. MVNOs offer advantages such as competitive pricing, plan flexibility, and more personalized customer service. This can be ideal for those looking for savings and customized options. However, MNOs typically offer broader coverage and more stable service quality. This aspect is crucial for users who require constant, high-quality connectivity. So, before choosing a carrier, you should consider parameters such as budget, the need for plan flexibility, and service quality. There is no ultimate solution for all needs and requirements. Conclusion Cable company MVNOs are redefining the competitive landscape of the US mobile telecommunications market. They offer more affordable alternatives and personalized services thanks to their flexible and efficient operating model. Their growing presence and significant expansion projections demonstrate the viability and attractiveness of this approach. MVNOs benefits, like lower costs, more flexibility, and customizable services, usually outweigh their downsides, like relying on other companies infrastructure and device limits. The future of the sector points toward greater service convergence. That is, cable companies are leveraging their established position to create integrated offerings that combine fixed and mobile connectivity. In short, MVNOs are democratizing access to mobile services. They intensify competition and stimulate innovation in the sector, benefiting both consumers and the digital economy as a whole. There's nothing better than watching baby animals all play together, and anytime I'm scrolling through social media I always stop to watch it. I was on TikTok and found a video that Wild Manes, a Maine Coon cat breeder, posted recently. It's total cuteness overload! The video shows six two-week-old kittens 'actively' playing together. There's not a whole lot of fast-paced action going on, but there's a lot of adorable squirming around. It's the most relaxing activity that you'll see today! Holy moly! It really doesn't get any cuter than that! If Wild Mane needs any volunteers to play with kittens, sign me up! Viewers had some pretty cute and funny things to say about the Maine Coon kittens' playtime. @Mr. Mox swooned, "So many cuddle nuggets!" and @Julia added, "I love how kittens are always in a cuddle puddle!" And I couldn't agree more with @squaresaugez who asked, "How do you get anything done when you have a cuddle puddle in your home?" Commenter @spookyspooky wasn't wrong when they shared, "It's all fun in games till they start learning to wobble walk and they choose to all scatter in different directions in the room. No one will catch them then!" I laughed when @Nessie pointed out, "They are orange cats, I fear they may never learn." @minimouse adorably added, "Your printer ran out of ink on that last one... lol! So precious!" Related: Maine Coon Kitten's Unique Color and 'Frost Effect' Has People Doing a Double Take Where the Maine Coon Cat Name Came From Not only are Maine Coons beautiful cats, but they're also the largest domestic cat breed and one of the most popular breeds around. They have those huge furry paws that they use to climb, hunt, and capture their prey like birds and mice; they love being active and playing. Even the way they got their name is cool. They're one of the oldest cat breeds in North America, and as Maine Coon Central explained, Maine Coons are believed to have originated in Mainehence the first half of their name. In the early days of the breed, before they reached official status, they were just called Maine cats. Around the mid-20th century their name was changed to the Maine Coon. This is because their tails are so bushy and often striped, so people began to compare them to raccoons, giving them the second half of their name. It's a fun fact you can share the next time you're chatting about cats! The case of a woman accused of breaching a so-called buffer zone outside an abortion clinic in England has attracted attention at the highest levels of the US government. Here the PA news agency takes a look at the case, what has been said and the law as it stands. What is the case? The ADF has been supporting Livia Tossici-Bolt (ADF International/PA) Retired medical scientist Livia Tossici-Bolt was charged with breaching a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in 2023 and went on trial last month. She was accused of failing to leave the area covered by the order, which takes in a British Pregnancy Advice Service (Bpas) clinic in Ophir Road, Bournemouth, when asked to do so. The 64-year-old, who was holding a sign saying Here to talk, if you want, said she had been dragged through court merely for offering consensual conversation. She was found guilty on Friday at Poole Magistrates Court, with the judge saying it is important to note this case is not about the rights and wrongs about abortion but about whether the defendant was in breach of the PSPO (Public Spaces Protection Order). What has the US administration said? US vice president JD Vance has been outspoken on the issue (Niall Carson/PA) The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour (DRL), a unit in the Department of State, said one of its advisers had met Tossici-Bolt and had been monitoring her case. Days ahead of the verdict, it said: It is important that the UK respect and protect freedom of expression. The ADF (Alliance Defending Freedom), an international religious campaigning organisation, has been supporting Tossici-Bolt with her case. In February, during a speech at the Munich security conference, US vice president JD Vance referenced the case of Adam Smith-Connor, who was convicted last year of breaching the same council-enacted buffer zone, suggesting it showed in Britain and across Europe, free speech, I fear, is in retreat. Has the British Government responded to remarks by the US administration? A Government minister said access to healthcare is an important British value (Nick Ansell/PA) Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, a prominent Christian member of the Government, said he disagreed with the US vice president and being able to access health services was an important British value too. Mr Reynolds said no-one is arrested for what they are praying about and that the example he (Mr Vance) gave was about people being able to access healthcare, in this case abortions, free of intimidation or harassment. What is a buffer zone? An abortion clinic in central London, as safe access zones come into effect across England and Wales (Alamy/PA) There are two versions. National legislation came into effect in England and Wales at the end of October 2024. But there were already some zones in effect outside certain clinics, enacted by local councils. What law was Livia Tossici-Bolt charged under? There is a public spaces protection order in place, enacted by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (Alamy/PA) The prosecution was brought by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council for breach of a PSPO under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The zone at Ophir Road outside the abortion clinic came into force on October 13 2022, and is in force from 7am to 7pm from Monday to Friday. Why was a PSPO put in place in that area? The order, which is due to expire in October, was brought in after what the council described as behaviours having a detrimental impact at this location including difficulties and experiences of people either visiting or working at the clinic. The council undertook a two-month public consultation and said the strength of support for the introduction of a PSPO was clear. At the time, councillor Bobbie Dove said: Whilst we acknowledge the right of anyone to conduct a peaceful protest, we had to balance this against the distress caused or likely to be caused, and the detrimental impact of behaviours experienced by those accessing medical services or doing their jobs. What is the national legislation? Safe access zones are areas within 150 metres of a clinic or hospital providing abortion services in England and Wales. Under the Public Order Act 2023, it is an offence for someone to do anything in this area that intentionally or recklessly influences someones decision to use abortion services, obstructs them, or causes harassment, alarm or distress to someone using or working at the premises. Anyone found guilty of such an offence will face an unlimited fine. Silent prayer is not an automatic offence but people doing this within the zones could be liable for prosecution, according to guidance published last October. Instances will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis, with police and prosecutors deciding around the intent or recklessness of the person involved. What about other areas of the UK? Legislation creating buffer zones around abortion clinics in Scotland, banning protests or vigils there, came into force in September 2024. In Northern Ireland, safe access zones at health service locations which offer abortion and birth control services have been in place since September 2023. What have pro-choice campaigners said about the need for buffer zones? Campaigners say women should be free from any form of harassment outside abortion clinics (Alamy/PA) Campaigners have told of instances of demonstrators calling out mummy and daddy at people entering abortion clinics, baby socks being hung on a nearby hedge and some protesters persistently speaking to people as they walk in. Bpas said its patients and staff had faced anti-abortion fanatics standing outside clinics for hours staring, handing out leaflets and displaying graphic and distressing posters. MSI Reproductive Choices said the behaviour we saw outside our clinics included spitting, calling women murderers and physically blocking people from entering our clinics. Louise McCudden from MSI said: It may come as a surprise to politicians in the US, but here in the UK, freedom includes the freedom to access medical care safely without intimidation or coercion. The first PSPO in the UK was enacted by west Londons Ealing Council in April 2018 outside the MSI Reproductive Choices Clinic in Mattock Lane. But campaigners had long made the case for national legislation, arguing that PSPOs depend on local councils willingness, are timebound, can be expensive and result in a postcode lottery across the country. What have anti-abortion campaigners been saying about UK laws? The first council-enacted safe zone came into force at an abortion provider in Ealing, west London, in 2018 (PA) Campaigners say their rights to freedom of expression, speech and religious belief have been threatened. Right To Life UK said the zones mean vital practical support provided by volunteers outside abortion clinics, which helps to provide a genuine choice, and offers help to women who may be undergoing coercion, will be removed. The UK branch of the ADF described the enactment of the national buffer zones as a watershed moment for British freedoms. Lorcan Price, legal counsel for ADF International, claimed there is a censorship crisis in the UK and that Tossici-Bolts prosecution for merely offering consensual conversation highlights in a particular way that free speech is now becoming a major point of contention between the US and UK. Eggs have been all over the news lately, even if they haven't been in everyone's kitchen. With rising prices and low stock making eggs more valuable than ever, more and more people are raising their own flock of chickens to remedy the problem. There are plenty of places to buy chicks and chickens, but some folks choose to hatch their own chicks from fertile eggs. Sure, you could buy eggs from a farm or feed store, but did you know that you can also hatch a chick from a Trader Joe's egg? Madison knew, which is why she hatched the sweetest brood of baby chicks from a carton of Trader Joe's fertile eggs. In mid-March, after 21 days of incubation, she introduced her social media followers to her tiny new addition. This baby chick is too cute! He looks so relaxed in Madison's hands, and she seems absolutely smitten. Then again, it's hard not to be when you're holding a baby animal! Related: Woman Saves Cracked Egg and Hatches Healthy Baby Chick Of course, this little cutie pie has the perfect name for a chick hatched from a Trader Joe's egg: Joe. Madison won't be able to tell if he's actually a male for a few more weeks, but the worst case scenario is that Joe becomes Josephine instead. "Did you just open up the fridge and see him?" joked commenter Abigail. It was quite the opposite, really! Madison left the egg (and several others) in an incubator for about 21 days, and this little cutie was the first to hatch. People were so shocked to hear about this chick who hatched from a grocery store egg, and I was, too! As I did a little research, however, I discovered that plenty of peopleincluding California mom and 'wannabe farmer' @thecaliforniahomehave hatched their own chicks from fertile eggs from the grocery chain. This is so cool, and oh-so-cute! Raising chickens is still a big commitment that requires plenty of space and preparation, but it's becoming easier than ever. Remember that most grocery store eggs are not fertile, meaning that the hens that laid them did not have contact with male roosters. Fertile eggs are not guaranteed to hatch, either, but they are much more likely to grow into a chick when given the right conditions. Who knows, you could buy a future flock of chicks during your next grocery store run! Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips. The Duke of York and his former adviser twice went to Windsor without being seen to talk to the King about an investment fund linked to an alleged Chinese spy, according to newly released tribunal documents. Yang Tengbo, who has previously said he had done nothing wrong or unlawful, was excluded from the UK on national security grounds in March 2023 after officials claimed he had been in a position to generate relationships between prominent UK figures and senior Chinese officials that could be leveraged for political interference purposes. Mr Yang also known as Chris Yang unsuccessfully challenged the decision at the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) last year, with judges finding the businessman was a close confidant of Andrew and had won a significant degree, one could say an unusual degree, of trust from the duke. Documents in the legal challenge, including the witness statement of Andrews former senior adviser Dominic Hampshire, were made public on Friday following a request from several media organisations. Buckingham Palace said that while the King met Andrew and his adviser to discuss proposals for independent funding, Mr Yang was not mentioned at any time or in any way as part of these discussions. In Mr Hampshires 10-page statement, dated May 2024, the former aide told SIAC that he had met twice with Andrew and the King in the previous six months to discuss what the duke can do moving forwards in a way that is acceptable to His Majesty. The former aide said both of these discussions covered topics including the Eurasia Fund, which Mr Yang described in his written evidence to the tribunal as a way to upgrade the dukes Pitch@Palace initiative into an investment-type business, or a fund. The Duke of York has faced criticism (Yui Mok/PA) Mr Hampshire continued: For both these meetings with His Majesty, despite less media interest in the duke, we took all precautions to get in and out of Windsor Castle without being seen. The former aide also said that Mr Yang had helped him draft letters which discussed the Eurasia Fund to Chinese president Xi Jinping, as well as being authorised to talk to relevant people in China. In a statement, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: While His Majesty met with the duke and his adviser to hear outline proposals for independent funding over the past year, the individual known as H6 (Yang) was not mentioned at any time or in any way as part of these discussions. The Palace is not commenting on individual claims in the testimony but it is understood the witness account does not conform with the Palaces record of events, and the Eurasia fund was never given any form of approval by the King or was discussed in any detail. In his statement, Mr Hampshire also said the dukes reputation was irrecoverable following Andrews 2019 Newsnight interview over his relationship with late billionaire sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which prompted a look at options for the dukes future away from royal duties. Andrew and Mr Hampshire took precautions not to be seen entering Windsor Castle to meet the King (Steve Parsons/PA) Mr Hampshire said the dukes Pitch@Palace initiative, set up to support entrepreneurs, was one of Andrews indisputable successes, and that hopes were placed on it continuing internationally. Mr Yang was the founder-partner of Pitch@Palace China, and Mr Hampshire said he had not deserted the duke while UK sponsors and supporters of Andrews initiative were falling away after the interview. The former aide also told the tribunal there had been a documented bombardment of the duke in the media with photographers camped outside Andrews residence. He continued: There were daily attacks on the duke in the media with the press watching his every move, including who was going in and who was going out of Royal Lodge. Mr Hampshire, who told the tribunal he had spent 10 years in the British Army, including as an intelligence officer in Belfast, later said that a degree of confidentiality was required due to the amount of leaks in the royal household. He said: Every time the duke does anything, the media attempts to destroy or at very least, malign him, often via individuals who leak documents or intel to the press. To progress in anything we do, everything has to be confidential where at all possible, not just with the Chinese. The Duke of Yorks reputation was said to be irrecoverable after his Newsnight interview (Jonathan Brady/PA) In his written evidence, Mr Hampshire later said that Mr Yang categorically does not have a close relationship with the duke. He continued: Anyone who understands how a member of the British royal family is looked after/advised would immediately know this. Chris, of course, doesnt have the dukes telephone number or his email address and does not have the ability to talk directly to the duke on his own ever. This is normal practice and Chriss relationship with the duke is the same as numerous others this is my role to protect him. In a statement as the documents were made public on Friday, Mr Hampshire said he left the royal household in 2022 and no longer provides advice to Andrew. He also said that Andrew fully complied with advice to end all contact with Mr Yang. He added: The Palace was kept informed of all my commercial endeavours on behalf of The Duke of York, and full disclosure of all communications with Mr Yang, the Hampton Group and China was offered to both Buckingham Palace and the intelligence services. At all times I sought to protect the best interests of the Royal Family with integrity and loyalty. Mr Hampshire continued: He did not receive a penny in funding or support, directly or indirectly, from any Chinese individual or entity. In my personal business capacity, I continued dealings with the Hampton Group in China which is not sanctioned and, in accordance with current UK policy, doing business in China and with Chinese individuals is entirely legitimate. I am now a private businessman and none of my business interests are connected to any member of the Royal Family. Mr Hampshire previously said he was not warned of the possibility of his previous evidence being made public, stating he would never have agreed to submit a witness statement had he known. In a ruling in March, three judges at SIAC said the statement could be disclosed, finding it was drafted explicitly to be used in support of representations by Mr Yang. Mr Yang has previously said he intends to appeal against the decision upholding his ban from entering the UK. It was a common feeling in the royal household that the Duke of Yorks reputation was irrecoverable following his Newsnight interview, Andrews former senior adviser told a tribunal in a challenge brought by an alleged Chinese spy. Yang Tengbo, who has previously said he had done nothing wrong or unlawful, was excluded from the UK on national security grounds by then home secretary Suella Braverman in March 2023. Mr Yang also known as Chris Yang unsuccessfully challenged the decision at the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) last year, with judges finding the businessman was a close confidant of Andrew and had won a significant degree, one could say an unusual degree, of trust from the duke. Documents in the legal challenge, including the witness statement of Andrews former senior adviser Dominic Hampshire, were made public on Friday following a request from several media organisations. In Mr Hampshires 10-page statement, he told the tribunal about the aftermath of Andrews 2019 interview over his relationship with late billionaire sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He said: After the Newsnight interview and in the following few months, it was clear that the dukes reputation was irrecoverable. This was a common feeling within the royal household, despite what the duke thought may happen. It was very clear internally within the royal household that we would have to look at options for the dukes future away from royal duties. Buckingham Palace said that while the King met with Andrew and his adviser to discuss proposals for independent funding, Mr Yang was not mentioned at any time or in any way. Also in the statement, Mr Hampshire said that he liked and trusted Mr Yang, adding: In the five or so years I have known him, there has never been one single red flag in my head. Mr Hampshire said the dukes Pitch@Palace initiative, set up to support entrepreneurs, was one of Andrews indisputable successes, and that hopes were placed on it continuing internationally. Mr Yang was the founder-partner of Pitch@Palace China, and Mr Hampshire said he had not deserted the duke while UK sponsors and supporters of Andrews initiative were falling away after the interview. The Duke of York speaks during a Pitch@Palace event in 2019 (John Stillwell/PA) The former adviser, who told the tribunal he had spent 10 years in the British Army, including as an intelligence officer in Belfast, later said that a degree of confidentiality was required due to the amount of leaks in the royal household. He said: Every time the duke does anything, the media attempts to destroy or at very least, malign him, often via individuals who leak documents or intel to the press. To progress in anything we do, everything has to be confidential where at all possible, not just with the Chinese. The tribunal was previously told that in a briefing for the Home Secretary in July 2023, officials claimed Mr Yang had been in a position to generate relationships between prominent UK figures and senior Chinese officials that could be leveraged for political interference purposes. They also said that the businessman had downplayed his relationship with the Chinese state, which combined with his relationship with Andrew, represented a threat to national security. In his written evidence, Mr Hampshire said that Mr Yang categorically does not have a close relationship with the duke. He continued: Anyone who understands how a member of the British royal family is looked after/advised would immediately know this. Chris, of course, doesnt have the dukes telephone number or his email address and does not have the ability to talk directly to the duke on his own ever. This is normal practice and Chriss relationship with the duke is the same as numerous others this is my role to protect him. In a statement as the documents were made public on Friday, Mr Hampshire said he left the royal household in 2022 and no longer provides advice to Andrew. He also said that Andrew fully complied with advice to end all contact with Mr Yang. The Duke of York (Toby Melville/PA) He said: The desire to keep my witness statement out of the media was solely to protect the confidential interactions I had with Buckingham Palace and the intelligence services. The Palace was kept informed of all my commercial endeavours on behalf of The Duke of York, and full disclosure of all communications with Mr Yang, the Hampton Group and China was offered to both Buckingham Palace and the intelligence services. At all times I sought to protect the best interests of the Royal Family with integrity and loyalty. For the record, as soon as The Duke of York was advised to cease all contact with Mr Yang, he fully complied. He did not receive a penny in funding or support, directly or indirectly, from any Chinese individual or entity. In my personal business capacity, I continued dealings with the Hampton Group in China which is not sanctioned and, in accordance with current UK policy, doing business in China and with Chinese individuals is entirely legitimate. I am now a private businessman and none of my business interests are connected to any member of the Royal Family. The specialist tribunal previously heard Mr Hampshire was in contact with the intelligence services about Mr Yang known as H6 during his legal battle in 2022 before the decision to exclude him had been made. Mr Hampshire said he was not warned of the possibility of his previous evidence being made public, stating he would never have agreed to submit a witness statement had he known. In a ruling in March, three judges said the statement could be disclosed, finding it was drafted explicitly to be used in support of representations by Mr Yang. Mr Yang has previously said he intends to appeal against the decision upholding his ban from entering the UK. The Duke of York always had a communication channel with the Chinese leader and Andrew would send him birthday letters, a tribunal heard. Andrews former senior adviser Dominic Hampshire said the royal household, including the late Queen Elizabeth II, were fully aware of the dukes communication with President Xi Jinping and may have even encouraged it. His witness statement was disclosed to the media on Friday after being used in the Special Immigration Appeals Commission case related to Yang Tengbo, who Mr Hampshire referred to as Chris. Mr Hampshire said: The duke has always had a communication channel with the president, largely to support the success of Pitch@Palace in China, and this was never hidden. As is my job, I would draft these letters with the help of those, in this instance Chris, that understood how messages need to be conveyed due to cultural differences. At no time did I have any concerns of the contents. Mr Hampshire said that Andrew would send a letter to Xi Jinping for his birthday each year. He continued: The royal household, including the late Queen, were fully aware of this communication it was certainly accepted, and it may be fair to say that perhaps, even encouraged it was an open channel of communication that was useful to have. It was not a channel that was hidden from the royal household. He added: Importantly, it was also a channel that pre-existed the dukes relationship with Chris and me, with the duke hosting the president during his state visit to the UK in 2015. Mr Hampshire also said that he believes that Andrew must surely be a valuable communication point with China. He added: Whilst I think China would prefer a different royal, the reality is, to this day, that if the UK government or the palace said that someone needs to see the Chinese president and talk to him, I think the duke would be able to do that, whereas I dont think anyone else could do so as simply. Liverpools Andy Robertson insists the players have not been affected by the increasing speculation surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold and remain focused on winning another Premier League title. Wednesdays win over Everton re-established their 12-point lead over Arsenal with eight matches to go. But alongside the title race there is the long-running saga of Alexander-Arnold being linked to Real Madrid, which intensified last week, in addition to the expiring contracts of Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. But having recovered from back-to-back defeats, in cup competitions, for the first time this season prior to the international break, Robertson believes the squad displayed their professionalism with a hard-fought win in the Merseyside derby. Liverpool fans put up a sign targeting Trent Alexander-Arnold amid speculation he could leave for Real Madrid (David Davies/PA) At the end of that game Alexander-Arnold, currently sidelined by an ankle injury, made a point of congratulating every team-mate as they came off the pitch at the final whistle with the Liverpool-born academy graduate enjoying the win as much as anyone. Robertson said: Trents head is not great because hes injured. He hates being injured. None of us like being injured but it hurts Trent a little bit more. Thats all he is focused on. It is impossible for me to say we have not seen all the noise and everyone commenting on it. But for us our focus is for him to get back fit and healthy. Once he does that, what will happen, will happen. No one knows that yet. People can talk and speculate but for us we want Trent back very soon. Everton could do their neighbours a favour by taking points off Arsenal in Saturdays early kick-off at Goodison Park. Even if the Gunners do win the the gap will still be nine points before Liverpool go to Fulham on Sunday. But Robertson said the players had not allowed themselves to get comfortable with the cushion they have at the top. We just look to the next game. You guys talk about the 12 points but we talk about the next three points, said the Scotland captain, one of a number of players who won the title in 2020 but who also twice narrowly lost out to Manchester City. Every game becomes bigger for us. We have eight games left. Every time we pick up three points brings us closer to where we want to be. But we are still a long way off that. It was good to be back to winning ways and we go again Sunday which will be a really tough game. They (fans) can get carried away, we are allowing them to get carried away and we take great pleasure in that. But we have to stay focused. We are the players, we have a job to do. Keep pushing and keep winning games to get us over the line. If the time comes we will be sure to enjoy it, but we are not thinking that far ahead. Ange Postecoglou has implored Tottenham to stick to something to bring about lasting change at the club in echoes of Antonio Contes final act as manager. Postecoglou is under more pressure after a 1-0 loss at Chelsea on Thursday made it 16 defeats in the Premier League this season and the Australian faced backlash for his decision to cup his ear in celebration towards the away Spurs fans before Pape Sarrs strike was subsequently ruled out. While the 59-year-old later insisted his gesture had been misinterpreted, it was another fracture in his relationship with the supporters ahead of Sundays visit of Southampton, which is followed by the first leg of a pivotal Europa League quarter-final with Eintracht Frankfurt. Defeat in the competition would extend Tottenhams trophy drought into an 18th year and more than likely put Postecoglou on the brink, but he reflected on the difficulty of the job and made remarks akin to Contes explosive rant at St Marys in 2023. Conte, days before his departure, stated: It is time to change this situation if Tottenham want to change. If they want to continue in this way, they can change manager, a lot of managers, but the situation cannot change believe me. Postecoglou said: Every managers got their own sort of views on this. I just dont think its about the managers themselves. Ive almost lasted two years, its pretty good for Tottenham! At some point, I think the club needs to stick to something. If I say it now it sounds self-serving and defeats the purpose, so maybe not now. But I think that if you want to change the course of your events, you need to change materially a lot of things in terms of the way your outlook as a club. Last year was a good year, I dont care what anybody says. We lost Harry (Kane). I know everyone talks about our start (but) we lost Harry, we finished fifth, we changed the way we played. It seems like, you have one good year, you have one poor year and then thats it, lets move on to the next, but thats what I accepted so I cant sit here and say, ah, woe is me. Thats the challenge I accepted. Fair to say at the moment Im not doing a good job of turning that mind-shift around, but I am a fighter. I will continue fighting until told otherwise. Amid a chaotic season, Postecoglou does still have the chance to win a trophy and become one of the most successful managers in the clubs history. What a trophy does is eliminate some of the noise around the club and what other people feel is missing, Postecoglou admitted. Its not what I feel is the only piece thats missing. I think you need to build something sustainable and Ive said that from the start. We started that last year with the way we played and the squad we have, a young squad we want to keep growing, but certainly it would quieten a lot of the noise, whether internally or externally, about whats missing at this club. If a trophy is the only way it seems to be the only way well OK lets see if we can deliver that and see what happens. Six children were killed in the Russian strike on Kryvyi Rih - Donatas Butkus Six children were among 16 people killed on Friday in a Russian ballistic missile strike on Volodymyr Zelenskys home town of Kryvyi Rih. The Ukrainian president confirmed the fatalities on Friday evening, adding that the missile hit a residential neighbourhood and damaged five buildings. As of now, 16 people are confirmed dead, including six children, he said. Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the citys military administration, said more than 50 people were also wounded in the attack. The number of wounded is constantly increasing. This information will come later. A car and garages are on fire, said Sergiy Lysak, the regional governor. Video showed plumes of smoke, cars on fire, and bodies scattered across the pavement. Kryvyi Rih is about 60 kilometres from the front line but has been the target of Russian missile and drone attacks. The latest attack came after Russia launched a series of drone strikes on Kharkiv overnight, killing at least five people and injuring 34 others, including three children. The strikes targeted residential areas in the citys Novobavarskyi district, damaging several apartment buildings and sparking fires. Rescue teams worked through the night looking for survivors. Ihor Terekhov, the mayor, reported via Telegram that four fatalities had been confirmed, with one body recently recovered from the debris. US could ramp up sanctions on Russia Mr Zelensky called on the US to increase pressure on Russia to accept a ceasefire and said the strikes on Ukrainian civilians and energy infrastructure cannot be accidental. The Russians know exactly what theyre hitting. They know these are energy facilities that should be protected from attacks under what Russia itself promised to the American side, Mr Zelensky said. We count on America, on Europe, on other partners we count on their ability to put pressure on the sole cause of this war: Russias desire to destroy and kill. On Friday, the Trump administration warned the US would not facilitate peace negotiations forever if Vladimir Putin continued to drag his feet. Moscow has rejected a joint US-Ukrainian proposal for an unconditional and full ceasefire, while Ukraine has accused Russia of dragging out talks with no intention of halting its offensive. Speaking after his first meeting of Nato foreign ministers in Brussels, Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, said the US would know in a matter of weeks whether Russia was interested in peace. Marco Rubio says Donald Trump will not stand for endless negotiations with Russia - Getty Images/Jacquelyn Martin Mr Rubio said Donald Trump was not going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations and warned the US could ramp up sanctions on Russia if it did not stop the war. Congress has already started working on a bill on sanctions and the pressure from the Capitol will already be growing. We will send our message to Moscow, and we hope that Moscow will be ready for peace, the secretary of state said. Referring to the attack on his home town, Mr Zelensky said it was further proof that Russia had no interest in ending the war. Russian strikes occur every day. People die every day. There is only one reason why this continues: Russia doesnt want a ceasefire, and we see it. The whole world sees it. Each missile, every attack drone proves that Russia seeks only war. Russia said it killed 85 Ukrainian servicemen and officers in the missile strike on a restaurant. At 18.49, a high-precision strike was carried out with a high-explosive missile on the site of a meeting with unit commanders and Western instructors in one of the restaurants in the city of [Kryvyi Rih], the Russian ministry of defence said on Telegram. As a result of the strike, the enemy lost up to 85 servicemen and officers of foreign countries, as well as up to 20 vehicles. This fact check has been compiled by Full Fact, the UKs largest fact checking charity working to find, expose and counter the harms of bad information. The Netflix drama Adolescence has fuelled a debate about smartphones in schools in recent weeks, and the Government is reportedly planning to scrutinise whether the current guidance is working. At Prime Ministers Questions last week, Sir Keir Starmer appeared to disagree with the Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch about how many schools currently ban phones. Sir Keir claimed almost every school bans phones in school, while Mrs Badenoch challenged the point, saying: The Prime Minister is wrong: not all schools do this. Only one in 10 schools is smartphone-free. In truth, there isnt a completely clear answer to this question. We do know that most secondary teachers said in a survey last year that they work in schools where pupils are not allowed to use phones at all during the dayalthough many of those schools allow pupils to keep the phones in their possession. On the other hand, there is evidence from the National Behaviour Survey that in practice mobile phones are quite often used in secondary school classrooms in England, in contravention of these rules. What information is available? We have contacted Sir Keir and Mrs Badenoch to ask what data they were referring to, and havent had a response. But there is some evidence that supports both of their claims. (Education policy is devolved, so we have assumed they were both talking about schools in England, which the UK Government controls.) A 2019 government survey found that 49% of secondary schools operated a strict no-use policy. Then in late 2022 the Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa) found that 70% of the 137 secondary schools in England which answered the question said that the use of cell phones is not allowed on the school premises. (Pisa estimated that this covered about 71.8% of pupils.) The education research company Teacher Tapp has run regular surveys of teachers in England, asking them about phone policies in their schools. The most recent of these, in February 2024, estimated that 5% of secondary teachers worked in schools where phones were not allowed on the premises, and the schools of a further 9% took possession of phones during the school day. The think tank Policy Exchange submitted Freedom of Information requests to a random selection of 250 maintained secondary schools in England in December 2023, asking them for details of their policies on mobile phones. Of the 162 that responded, 13% had what Policy Exchange categorised as an effective ban, and a further 52% had a ban but phone present with student. Almost all the rest had a partial ban, which included policies where a phone could be used at the direction of a teacher. Its hard to know how well this sample of 162 schools represented schools in England generally. What counts as a ban? The Teacher Tapp and Policy Exchange figures could roughly substantiate Mrs Badenochs claim of only one in ten schools being smartphone freealthough they concern secondary schools only. The Conservative party press office reposted a comment mentioning the Teacher Tapp survey from the director of research at Policy Exchange, which may mean that Mrs Badenoch did have these sources in mind. At the same time, the Teacher Tapp data might also be said to support Sir Keir, if we use a slightly broader definition of a school phones ban, because a further 48% of secondary teachers said pupils were not allowed to use phones at all during the day at their schools, while another 21% said that pupils were not allowed to use their phones unless directed to by a teacher. In other words, according to Teacher Tapps survey last year, about 83% of secondary teachers work in schools where pupils are not allowed to use their phones (unless told to by a teacher in some cases). This could reasonably mean that almost every school bans phones in school, as Sir Keir put it although again, this is a survey of teachers, not schools, and it only includes secondary schools, not all of them. Current guidance to schools, published by the Conservative government in February 2024, says: We are determined that all schools should prohibit the use of mobile phones throughout the school day not only during lessons but break and lunchtimes as well. So it does seem like most secondary teachers work in schools with a policy that follows this. But are phone bans actually followed? As anyone whos been to school will know, not every pupil follows the rules. So there could be a big difference between the number of schools that ban phones and the number where those bans are effectively enforced. The most recently published National Behaviour Survey, which collected data in May 2023, shows that a comfortable majority of secondary school teachers and pupils reported illicit mobile phone use in class at least on rare occasions during the past week. Mrs Badenoch may have been referring to this data when she said later in the exchange at PMQs: His own Governments evidence says that phones disrupt nearly half of GCSE classes every single day. The survey does show that 46% of GCSE pupils (Year 10 and 11) reported this behaviour in most or all lessons, although it does not tell us how disruptive this behaviour was. Pupils in the survey answered this question: Thinking about the lessons/classes you attended during the past week of term, how often, if at all, did the following occur when it was not supposed to: Pupils using mobile phones? This could therefore include quite mild forms of misbehaviour, like checking the time, as well as other uses that would be more disruptive to learning. Olga Ivshina has written extensively about Russian losses in Ukraine. Photograph: Handout Russian BBC journalists who have been labelled foreign agents by Vladimir Putins regime have spoken of being unable to see their children, forced to sell homes and in effect being banished from their home country. They are now meant to report their finances to the state, down to supermarket receipts, while there have already been practical effects for family members inside Russia. The journalists said the label was designed to make them toxic to any Russians thinking about speaking to independent media. The designation in effect bars them from returning to their home country because of the risk of arrest. The tactic of branding journalists as foreign agents is now regularly deployed by the Russian authorities. Seven BBC journalists have been given the label, most of them since January. Six spoke to the Guardian. They all now live outside Russia, as the BBC moved operations out of the country after the 2022 Ukraine invasion. Ilya Abishev said his big personal problem was that he could not see his adult children. He explained they had no automatic right to settle in the EU, while I cant go to Russia because it is quite dangerous. I dont rule out that, in the near future, my family may face problems in Russia as children of an enemy of the people, to use the Soviet-era phrase, he said. It is necessary for me to resolve the issue of personal property in Russia because it can be confiscated at any time. Anastasia Lotareva is also experiencing serious practical implications. I no longer have a proper bank account and I cannot help my mother in Russia, she said. Returning is no longer an option for me. While there is no official entry ban, in practice it is too risky for journalists listed as foreign agents to travel to Russia. My dad is a professor of chemistry at a university, said Olga Ivshina, who has written extensively about Russian military losses in Ukraine. Within just an hour of my designation, his name was all over the local media. By the next day, some neighbours had stopped greeting him in the morning. It was very painful on a personal level, because some people even some people I considered friends stopped talking to me, fearing retribution from the state. Anyone given the label is obliged to mark all their online communications, including in WhatsApp groups or Instagram posts unrelated to their work, as coming from a foreign agent. Failing to do so leads to fines and eventual criminal prosecution. In about a years time I will be charged with a criminal offence for failure to comply with this law, said Andrey Kozenko. It is discriminatory. If I lived in Russia, for me it would mean a massive defeat of my rights: from a ban on participation in elections to a ban on teaching. Every three months I have to report to the Russian authorities how I spend foreign money, right down to my supermarket receipts. If I transfer money to my mother or sister, they, too, potentially will be given the foreign agent status. Lotareva said it had affected her relationship with Russia. I love it deeply, she said. Every single night, I dream about my home. And yet, I will likely never see it again until these repressive laws are repealed. I cannot take the risk of imprisonment. I have two children and, unfortunately, I cannot make this decision just for myself. It is painful. I havent seen my mother for three years, and I know that I wont see her for a long time to come travelling to third countries to meet with me is not an option for her. And no one will grant her a visa to come to Europe because, due to sanctions, it is extremely difficult for Russians to get these visas. BBC executives are concerned about the journalists travelling abroad to meet family, because of the risk of being extradited to Russia. Some journalists had to leave the BBC when the corporation moved its operations out of Moscow to Riga. Many of us retained an inner faith and hope that once the war ends, the situation inside Russia could somehow normalise, and we would then be able to return home, said Ilya Barabanov, who was labelled a foreign agent last year. After receiving the status of a foreign agent, it became clear that this would definitely not happen in the foreseeable future. At the moment, approximately every third foreign agent in Russia has a criminal case instigated against them. Criminal prosecution is accompanied by searches that can take place at your previous place of residence or at your relatives. So, first and foremost, I certainly fear for my loved ones. Elizaveta Fokht, labelled a foreign agent in January, said it affected their work, because it risked making them toxic for other people inside Russia which she said was the regimes aim. They want to break this connection between us and our audience and to stop other people from becoming independent journalists, she said. Its an effective tool, but the good news is that weve proved that were resilient. There are still people who need us to do our job. This is the only way to fight back. In response to the latest foreign agent designations earlier this year, Jonathan Munro, the BBC News global director, said: The BBC wholly condemns this ongoing attempt to intimidate and silence our journalists. Aimed at having a disruptive and damaging effect, these arbitrary designations cant stop our journalists doing their jobs. Journalism is not a crime, and our reporters will continue serving our Russian-speaking audiences just as they have done for almost 80 years: independently, fairly and fearlessly. We are proud of all our journalists. We will challenge these actions by the Russian authorities in the courts. These journalists have our total support. Sonya Semmens, Greens candidate for Macnamara, was initially invited to attend the forum co-hosted by five Jewish groups on Wednesday night, but the offer was rescinded when some of the groups objected to her appearance. Photograph: James Ross/AAP Several Jewish community leaders have expressed concern about a decision to ban the Greens candidate for Macnamara from attending a community forum next week, as two established Jewish groups campaign for Labor to preference the minor party last. The preference request was under consideration, with two Labor sources telling Guardian Australia the party was likely to run an open ticket in the ultra-marginal Melbourne seat, which would encourage voters to place the incumbent MP Josh Burns first on ballots, but not dictate preferences. The Greens Sonya Semmens was initially invited to attend the forum co-hosted by five Jewish groups on Wednesday night, but the offer was rescinded when some of the groups objected to her appearing at the event. Not all the groups initially agreed with calls to revoke her invite but they reached consensus, one of the hosting organisations told Guardian Australia. Two of the forums co-hosts, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry and the Zionist Federation of Australia, wrote to the prime minister and opposition leader urging the Labor and Liberal parties to preference each other above the minor party, criticising the Greens conduct since the 7 October attacks. Related: How Australias political parties have split over Israel and Gaza Jeremy Leibler, the president of the Zionist Federation of Australia, said that while the Greens had attended community forums at previous elections, they were not welcome this year. The Greens behaviour since 7 October has [shown] they have knowingly and intentionally fuelled antisemitism [and] further inflamed damage to our social-cohesion on the streets of Australia, Leibler said. I dont think they deserve to be platformed in the lead-up to the election. Semmens said she and her colleagues had been very clear in our rejection of antisemitism and urged the Jewish groups to reconsider their decision. She said she was still willing to attend the event. A Greens spokesperson said that after Semmens was told she could not speak at the event, she asked to attend and sit in the front row and be available to people who wished to speak to her. The spokesperson said that request was denied. This is a disappointing decision as it means the Jewish community wont have the chance to hear from all political candidates and make their vote count to the fullest, Semmens said. I have been working hard to listen to all members of the Jewish community, and even when we differ in our views Ive felt those conversations have been important and valuable. Three Jewish community leaders in Melbourne who declined to be named so they could speak freely raised concerns about the decision to block a candidate from speaking to voters. One described the decision as a bad look and shortsighted. One said: I know it is difficult, especially when emotions are heightened, but you need to engage with people from all sides. Another community leader said they were concerned that Jewish lobby groups are now shifting into the political space and have picked a side I dont think thats right. Sarah Schwartz, a human rights lawyer and executive officer of the progressive group Jewish Council of Australia, also opposed the decision. Related: Tim Wilson questioned over whether tradie in Victorian ad is Liberal campaigner Like any community, the Jewish community has diverse political views, Schwartz said. It does an incredible disservice to Jews and to our community not to recognise this diversity and not to be able to even hear from leftwing voices. In Macanamara, 10% of the population is Jewish, making it the second-largest Jewish electorate in Australia. At the last election Labor, the Liberals and the Greens were separated by only a few hundred primary votes. A similar spread at this election would make the preference distribution vital in determining the outcome. One party insider said Macnamara was a unique seat, with unique circumstances and the party could make special considerations with preferences, provided it did not hurt negotiations with parties in other key seats. A KC has questioned whether an investigation into MP Rupert Lowe was conducted independently of the influence of Reform UK, in a review commissioned on behalf of the suspended politician. Mr Lowe said the independent review showed the investigation conducted on behalf of the party was fundamentally flawed, unfair, and influenced by political motivations. Reform UK said last month that an independent KC had found credible evidence of unlawful harassment of two women by both Mr Lowe and male members of his team. The Great Yarmouth MP lost the Reform whip after the party said it had received evidence of serious bullying and derogatory remarks made about women in the MPs offices. Mr Lowe, who has repeatedly denied the allegations against him, was also reported to the police over allegations of verbal threats towards Reform chairman Zia Yusuf. A review, commissioned by law firm Irwin Mitchell LLP on behalf of Mr Lowe and published on Friday, claimed the KC who investigated the politician had produced witness statements on behalf of the complainants following lengthy telephone interviews. It added that no terms of reference were ever set by the party and that the report was provided to Reform before the expiry of the deadline set for Mr Lowe to respond to allegations made against him. The author of the review, named as Gemma White KC, wrote: In addition to being unfair to Mr Lowe the sequence of events which led up to provision of the report to the party gives rise to real questions as to the extent to which the KC conducted the investigation independently of the influence of the party. Ms White claimed it was not apparent that the KC who conducted the investigation commissioned by Reform, named in the partys report as Jacqueline Perry, had recent experience conducting independent investigations into allegations of bullying and harassment. Mr Lowe has clashed publicly with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage (Joe Giddens/PA) Following the publication of the review, Mr Lowe said: In 67 years, I have never seen such vile and unprofessional behaviour. Including, but not limited to, publicly shaming my staff without even giving them the opportunity to respond to the false and damaging allegations. Reform has proven itself not only unfit to govern but unfit to sit in the House of Commons. To handle such a basic process in a hideously unprofessional and malicious manner is simply unacceptable. I asked reasonable questions of (party leader Nigel) Farage, after months of pushing behind the scenes. My punishment for bruising his ego? A concerted smear campaign to ruin my name and reputation. Nigel Farage must never be prime minister. Mr Lowe was one of five MPs elected for Reform in last years election. Reform UK has been approached for comment. The UK Foreign Secretary has said he regrets Americas return to protectionism after Donald Trump insisted Sir Keir Starmer was very happy with Britains treatment over US tariffs. David Lammy said people across the country were very concerned about how the move to slap 10% import taxes on goods would hit their own finances, and that all options remain on the table to respond in the national interest. Ministers have insisted they will remain cool and calm as they seek to secure an economic deal to mitigate the damage to Britain, but are not ruling out the possibility of retaliatory levies on a range of American products. But despite the UK Government having made clear its disappointment in the tariffs, the US President told journalists on board Air Force One late on Thursday that the Prime Minister was very happy with the result. Asked whether it was time for the UK to stand up to Mr Trump, Mr Lammy told reporters following a meeting with Nato counterparts in Brussels: The United Kingdom, like France, is a great maritime nation. We are a nation that believes in open trade, and I regret the return to protectionism in the United States, something that weve not seen for nearly a century. Mr Lammy said there was concern among Britons over the effect on their personal finances (AP) As you know, we are consulting with business and industry. At this time, we are engaged in discussions with the United States to strike an economic agreement and an economic deal. And of course, we have been absolutely clear that all options are on the table as we ensure the national interests of the British people, who will be very concerned at this time about how this affects the bottom line for them and their economic welfare. We will put their national interest first, and its in their national interests to be negotiating with the United States an economic agreement at this time, but keeping all options on the table. Mr Trump had said of Sir Keir on Thursday: We have a very good dialogue. I think he was very happy about how we treated them with tariffs. French President Emmanuel Macron has gone further than the UK in criticising Mr Trumps decision, denouncing it as brutal and unfounded decision after 20% tariffs were hiked on the EU. The US Presidents announcement on Wednesday sent stock markets tumbling across the globe, with the Prime Minister warning it marks the beginning of a new era in world trade. British goods will be subject to a 10% import tax, which is the lowest baseline category, but Sir Keir has acknowledged UK exporters will still be hurt by the levy. While the blanket tariff will come into effect on Saturday, the car industry has already been hit with a 25% import tax which began in the early hours of Thursday morning. (PA Graphics) Londons FTSE 100 index of companies declined further after the Citys financial markets opened on Friday morning, by 0.53%, or around 45 points, to 8,429.98 points immediately after the start of trading. An indicative list published by the UK Government on Thursday showed products that could be targeted as part of retaliatory action, including bourbon whiskey, motorcycles, guitars and jeans. But an immediate response is unlikely as Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds told MPs he would hold a four-week consultation on countermeasures. The Business Secretary has told MPs he would hold a consultation on countermeasures (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Speaking to broadcasters on Friday, Treasury minister James Murray refused to back Mr Trumps characterisation of Sir Keirs feelings about the announcement, but stopped short of criticising the US president. Asked whether the Government agrees with his assertion that the UK was happy with its treatment, the exchequer secretary to the Treasury told Times Radio: Were disappointed at tariffs being imposed globally. We are in a better position than many other economies moving forward because were on the lowest band of tariffs. But our focus is to get that economic deal. But he said important online safety protections for children are not up for negotiation in trade talks, amid speculation that legislation could be watered down to secure an agreement. Asked whether the Online Safety Act could be altered, he told Sky News: Its really important for us to have those protections for children and vulnerable people online. Those important protections are not up for negotiation. Those basic protections are things we want to keep. Meanwhile, shadow chancellor Mel Stride told Sky News: Our hope now is that the Government steps up to the plate, moves forward rather more quickly in order to secure a deal because that is the best solution for our country. The Government still hopes for a deal with the US to secure some exemption from the tariffs, with Sir Keir promising businesses on Thursday that he would fight for the best deal for Britain. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, has said the UK must keep cool and calm heads But even with an agreement, the global impact of Wednesdays tariffs is expected to cause a significant economic shock to the UK. Experts predicted that UK economic growth already expected to amount to just 1% this year could be up to 0.5 percentage points lower than expected over coming years as a result of the tariffs. Thomas Pugh, economist at RSM UK, said he believed the tariffs would be not far off wiping out Chancellor Rachel Reevess fiscal headroom by the time she announces her second budget in the autumn. Last week, the Office for Budget Responsibility warned that Ms Reevess headroom against her debt target would be at serious risk if tariffs were imposed. If this proves to be correct, the Chancellor will face the prospect of imposing more spending cuts or tax rises if she does not change her fiscal rules. Lower taxes and government spending are among the reasons why Singapore has flourished - iStockphoto Singapores first leader, Lee Kuan Yew, was famed for his iron self-discipline. Yet, even he broke down in public when he announced Singapores expulsion from Malaysia and its enforced independence in 1965. For an island state barely 30 miles wide, this was an economic shock infinitely greater than anything Donald Trumps tariffs might inflict on Britain today. We had said that an independent Singapore was simply not viable, wrote Lee. Now it was our unenviable task to make it work. But make it work he did: under Lee and his successors, Singapore flourished into a country where GDP per capita is now 70 per cent higher than in Britain. More than anywhere else, Singapore demonstrates how a sudden economic dislocation can be transformed into an opportunity to prosper. Jeremy Hunt, the former chancellor and foreign secretary, wrote in The Telegraph on Friday that this was an example for Britain to follow. Singapore built its success on free trade and openness, allowing the country to create and attract globally competitive businesses, generating high wages and high-skilled jobs. So how practical would it be for Britain to turn itself into Singapore-on-Thames? If we decided on this course, our driving national mission would have to be maximising the UKs competitiveness. Hunt argues that we should resist protectionism and remain defiantly open to imports, even when others impose tariffs on British goods. Instead of fearing an incoming tide of cheap products, Hunt says that we should welcome any such inflow as a spur for British companies to innovate and succeed. But would they rise to the challenge or simply go out of business? How exactly would Britain adopt Singapores model? Taxes Low taxes are a crucial component of Singapores success. The highest income tax rate is 24 per cent, paid by anyone earning over 1 million Singapore dollars (570,000), while the UKs comparable rate is 45 per cent. Someone earning the equivalent of 46,000 pays only 11.5 per cent in Singapore. Meanwhile Singapore strives to encourage investment by having no capital gains or inheritance tax. As for corporation tax, Singapore charges 17 per cent compared with 25 per cent in Britain. If the UK were to embrace Singapores model, this would require sweeping tax cuts, designed to give British business a competitive edge. That would, in turn have profound consequences for the size of the state. Public spending Singapore can afford low taxes because government spending is around 15 per cent of GDP, barely a third of the UKs 45 per cent. Because Singapore has less than 6 million people, that still allows a relatively generous public expenditure per capita of just under 10,000. The British state, meanwhile, spends about 13,000 for every individual in the country. Copying Singapore would, therefore, require Britain to cut per capita spending by about 30 per cent. Could any British party win an election by promising to slash public expenditure by 3,000 for every single voter? Lord Lilley, the former trade and industry secretary who now sits on the House of Lords committee on financial services regulation, believes that any comparison between UK and Singaporean state spending is misleading. He points out that Singapore requires compulsory contributions to a Central Provident Fund, which covers health care and pensions. We fund them through compulsory contributions and we call it taxation; they do it differently, but actually the difference [in spending per head] is much less, says Lilley. Even so, reducing income taxes to anything like Singapores levels would entail radical surgery on the British state, including the NHS and the welfare system. Regulation Singapore has developed a thriving financial services industry now a pillar of its economy and Lilley holds up its approach to regulation as a model. People constantly mention Singapore, he says. When you ask what happens in Singapore, its not that they dont have thorough rules against fraud or financial manipulation, they just do it in a much better way. If a bank or a wealth manager is considering Singapore as a location, the regulator will assign an official to tell the company exactly how it can comply with the rules. The emphasis will be on making it as easy as possible for the new operation to come to Singapore. Lilley says that Britain should adopt the same mindset. We need to look at all our rules and regulations, he says. Part of the reason why we dont do that is because the whole civil service, for 40 years, preferred to leave it all to Europe. Even now, when were free to make changes, they look for every reason not to do it. Shanker Singham, a leading trade expert, agrees that Singapores broader approach to regulation is a model for the UK, stressing how one reason for Trumps tariffs is Americas conviction that other markets are over-regulated. If we were to improve our regulatory system, then we get a win-win situation, says Singham. First of all, we improve our own economy, but we also increase the chances of getting a deal with the US. Trumps unpredictability was shown yet again today when he raised the possibility of cancelling all tariffs on Vietnam in return for a bespoke deal with the US. Singapores attitude to regulation would, in principle, be easiest for Britain to replicate, though the EU would certainly object. But the countrys emphasis on national competitiveness would still collide with other priorities of the British state. Net zero The drive to decarbonise power generation has given Britain the highest industrial electricity prices in the developed world. The consequence is that swathes of energy-intensive manufacturing have been rendered uncompetitive at a stroke. Britain is in the process of closing down the remnants of the steel industry. Other enterprises like chemicals are in similar difficulties. The government has also promised to stop issuing new exploration licences for the oil and gas industry. Deliberately undermining the viability of entire industries flies in the face of Singapores ethos and the imperative of national competitiveness. Singapore has a similarly ambitious target to reach net zero by 2050 with the crucial difference that the industries most threatened by this project are less important to its economy. If Britain is going to emulate Singapore, the government would have to review its approach to net zero. EU Any talk of Britain becoming Singapore-on-Thames is anathema to the EU. Throughout the Brexit negotiations, the EU feared the emergence of a low-tax, low-regulation market of nearly 70 million consumers next door. The solution was the level playing field guarantees (LPF) in the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the EU and the UK. The LPFs cover environmental standards, labour law and state aid. Britain could choose to deregulate anyway and simply break the LPFs, but the EU would hit back with rebalancing measures designed to negate this advantage. If, for example, Britain adopted new and divergent environmental standards, the EU could retaliate with tariffs and not necessarily in the same sector, perhaps targeting fish exports. Any such decisions would go to independent arbitration by a panel of experts from both sides. Whatever the outcome, adopting a Singapore approach would jeopardise the deals that Sir Keir Starmer wants from Brussels, including one to ease the trade in plants and animals between Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the EU. As the smaller market without the protection of membership of a trade bloc, the UK would be at a disadvantage in any negotiations. The irony of Singapores story is that the country would never have chosen the model that delivered such success. Lee Kuan Yew strove to avoid independence for his homeland. Once this was thrust upon him, he made it into a virtue. Faced with the similarly unsought pressure of Trumps tariffs, Britain could undoubtedly adopt some of Singapores virtues: its approach towards regulation and above all its single-minded pursuit of national competitiveness. But going the whole way to Singapore-on-Thames would mean slashing taxes and radically shrinking the British state. Sir Keir Starmer already has five missions; of all prime ministers, its hard to believe this might become his sixth. Iva by Joan Mitchell went on public display on Thursday - NEIL HALL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock An abstract landscape named after the artists dog is the Tate Moderns single biggest gift in more than half a century. The 1973 expressionist work Iva, by the American painter Joan Mitchell, was donated to the central London gallery by a US billionaire. Maria Balshaw, head of the Tate museums, said the artwork was the gallerys most significant donation since Mark Rothkos Seagram Murals in 1969. The work, a 20ft-long triptych, went on public display on Thursday after being donated by Jorge M Perez and his wife Darlene Perez. Ms Balshaw said Mitchell, who died in 1992, was underappreciated in her own time and in the decades afterwards, adding: By the time we realised the importance of her work, they were too expensive for a UK public institution to buy. So, with Tate having missed the boat during her lifetime, we knew that without the support of generous donors we wouldnt be able to bring a work that is of the same stature as the Seagram Murals. Mr Perez said the painting had hung on the couples bedroom wall and it had been a difficult decision to part with it. We have always collected with the intention that art should be exposed to the most people possible, he added. Jorge M Perez and his wife Darlene speak to the media after their gift was unveiled - Sodiq Adelakun/Reuters The painting, which the Tate hopes will help expand its collection of works by Latin American artists, was named after Mitchells German Shepherd. Prices for Mitchells work have soared since her death, with an untitled painting from 1959 selling at Christies, the London auction house, for 22 million in 2023. The Tate is working to reduce the proportion of its collection produced by white male artists, and has purchased more works by women than men in every year since 2019. Mr and Mrs Perez have also donated a mult-miillion pound endowment that will fund African and Latin American art at Tate Modern. Mr Perez, an Argentina-born real estate developer, said it was important that art from the two regions received exposure in great museums, in great cities of the world, which they havent had. The Perez family previously donated more than $100 million (77 million) to Miamis public art museum, now called the Perez Art Museum Miami. The billionaire described art as something beautiful that connects people of all types and makes people understand cultures that are not theirs, and see not only the differences but also the similarities between cultures. Heavy Whalley: attended hundreds of incidents from hillwalking injuries to complicated climbing rescues - PETER JOLLY NORTHPIX David Heavy Whalley, who has died aged 72, spent almost 40 years with the Royal Air Force Mountain Rescue Service, attending more than 1,000 incidents and 80 plane crashes; one above all would remain forever etched in his mind, haunting him for the rest of his life. On December 21 1988, Pan Am flight 103 exploded over Lockerbie in Scotland with the loss of 270 lives, including 11 local residents. It was the deadliest terrorist attack the UK had ever seen. At the time Whalley was team leader of the RAF Leuchars Mountain Rescue Team. It was an awful three days searching, marking where the bodies were, he recalled. We located the black box early the first day, plus various important pieces of wreckage. The casualties could not be moved as it was a scene of crime. What we saw and did was like a memory from hell. It was a scene of a battlefield, your mind could never take it in. Add to that it was so near Christmas, and we could do little but locate the fatalities and map the wreckage. I never slept the whole three days. Debris surrounding the cockpit section of Pan Am flight 103 - Bryn Colton/Getty Images Whalley was unusual in asking for help afterwards, something which was disdained by his superiors and even some members of mountain rescue, but he was ultimately diagnosed with PTSD. It took a huge toll on many of us, he later wrote. Six years later he was on duty again after a Chinook carrying dozens of senior British intelligence chiefs crashed on the Mull of Kintyre. The team split into pairs to locate the crew. It was a grim job, with the aircraft still burning [like a] scene from a movie or hell, but this was real life, Whalley said. I was praying some would have survived. As we got nearer, the smell of fuel and smoke was everywhere. I dreaded what I would see. He attended to hundreds of incidents, from remote hillwalking injuries to complicated climbing rescues including the death of a French woman honeymooning with her husband on Ben Nevis and served as team leader at three of the RAFs key Mountain Rescue team units during his career, Kinloss, Leuchars and St Athan. Those who worked with him recalled a man of steadfast confidence, dry humour and unwavering commitment. David William Whalley was born on December 17 1952, a troubled son of the manse, the youngest of five children. His father was a minister of Newton Wallacetown kirk in Ayr and a former cross-country runner for Scotland. Whalley: a passionate mountaineer - Peter Jolly/Northpix David was four when he climbed his first mountain, Goat Fell on Arran. His love of mountains and of the special bit of chocolate he was given at the summit was born. His father would tell him stories of the many aircraft crashes in the area as well as the famous murder on Goat Fell (when an English tourist was murdered climbing the mountain in 1889). What stories to a wee boy, Whalley later wrote. After local schooling he applied to join the RAF, but at 5ft 4in was turned down. He was finally accepted in 1972 and was immediately christened Heavy, a nickname that stuck. He once told friends that he would have ended up in jail had he not joined the military. Once in, he applied to serve with Mountain Rescue. Founded by Flight Lieutenant (later Squadron Leader) George Graham in 1943, and built up by volunteers since, the RAF Mountain Rescue team is managed by permanent staff and part-time volunteers from across all three services. As the youngest, Whalley earned his stripes doing the worst of the work. As the smallest, he wore oversized climbing boots with three pairs of socks because the equipment stores did not have gear small enough to fit him. He was a passionate mountaineer and climbed Scotlands 282 Munros (mountains more than 3,000ft in height) seven times. He travelled widely to climb, taking part in more than 30 RAF expeditions. On his retirement he became a member of the Torridon Mountain Rescue Team and chairman of the Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland. He also began a blog which was widely read by fellow rescuers and hill-goers, offering a mixture of folklore and history, as well as reflections on past call-outs and on the evolving outdoor culture. He also used it to give voice to rescue workers suffering from PTSD and spent years campaigning for the Ministry of Defence to acknowledge and help treat the disorder. In 2023 he was given the Scottish Award for Excellence in Mountain Culture. Last year David Whalley was diagnosed with stage-four liver cancer. He is survived by his partner and two stepdaughters. David Whalley, born December 17 1952, died March 24 2025 From left: Jamie Greene is welcomed by Alex Cole-Hamilton and Sir Ed Davey in Inverness - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images Jamie Greene, the former Scottish Conservative MSP, has defected to the Liberal Democrats in protest over the Tories Reform-lite agenda. The West of Scotland MSP was unveiled as a Lib Dem at the partys spring conference in Inverness on Thursday, a day after dramatically quitting the Scottish Conservatives. It means the Lib Dems now have five MSPs in their Holyrood group and the Tories have 30. Mr Greene was greeted on stage by Alex Cole-Hamilton, the Scottish Lib Dem leader, and thanked the conference for the incredible reception, joking that it was double the size of the Conservative conference. Addressing the audience, he said he was really happy to be here, adding: In the last 48 hours, Ive gone from being politically homeless like many Scots right now to joining you here today in my new home. Greene was welcomed by Sir Ed Davey, the Lib Dem leader who said that the SNP and Nigel Farages Reform UK were using the same populist playbook as Donald Trump in the US. He said Greene was just one of thousands of former Scottish Conservatives now turning to the Liberal Democrats, adding: Former Conservatives who have seen their old party move further and further away from the fundamental decent values we share, who have heard Conservative leaders sound more like Donald Trump and Nigel Farage, who feel let down and taken for granted by todays Conservative Party. During his resignation announcement on Thursday, Mr Greene, who has been the West of Scotland MSP since 2016, took aim at the Scottish Conservative leadership and their advisers. Deserting the middle ground He said the party he once knew simply no longer exists after shifting to the right to combat the threat of Nigel Farages Reform UK. Writing to Russell Findlay, leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Mr Greene said: During the leadership election last year, I warned that we were giving up on the next generation of young Scots. I warned that we were deserting the middle ground. Instead, the party now rests its hopes on a Reform-lite agenda that appeals to the worst of our society, and not the best. Instead of proudly leading on equality, we now run the very serious and immediate risk of becoming once again the party of social division and morality wars. Mr Cole-Hamilton said the letter should speak to us as well. He described Mr Greene as an effective communicator who had such symmetry with our outlook and our values as a party. He said Greene had agreed to join the party earlier that morning. Mr Greene said he wanted to reach out to compassionate, centre-Right Tories who also felt scunnered with the endless culture wars and fringe issues that my former party has become obsessed with. Mr Greene added: In these dangerous times that we live in, let me be direct. The language of hatred, of Right-wing populism and of scapegoating people must be fought against and must be defeated. Mr Greene has been outspoken in his support for LGBT+ rights and defied the partys opposition to the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill. In 2024, Mr Greene put himself forward to run for Scottish Conservative leader after Douglas Ross stepped down, but later backed Murdo Frasers unsuccessful bid to lead the party. Defections during the current session of the Scottish Parliament have been rare, though Ash Regan left the SNP to join the Alba Party in 2023. Passengers from the stranded Virgin Atlantic flight wait for information at Diyarbakir airport in south-eastern Turkey Hundreds of Virgin Atlantic passengers were left stranded at a remote Turkish air force base after their flight was unexpectedly diverted, it was claimed. A female passenger aboard flight VS358 from London to Mumbai was reportedly taken ill on Wednesday, forcing the pilots to make a precautionary landing at Diyarbakir airport in south-eastern Turkey. The Virgins Airbus A350 airliner then suffered a technical problem and it could not take off again after the sick passenger was offloaded, The Sun reported. Other passengers have taken to social media, lambasting the airline for leaving them with minimal help. On Friday morning, Preeti Sharma Menon, one of the passengers aboard VS358, posted on X: Thanks to the Indian consular officer in Turkey, the passengers were moved to a hotel last night. Virgin Atlantic has still not provided a definitive plan on when they will fly home. On Thursday, she wrote: .@UK_CAA @ukhomeoffice @richardbranson Can anyone respond please?! 270 odd pax of #VS358 London Mumbai are stuck in Diyarbakir almost a day now! Unusable toilets, no food, no phone chargers, no communication whatsoever from @VirginAtlantic ! Preeti Sharma Menon (@PreetiSMenon) April 3, 2025 Sherilyn Fernandes, who said she had a relative aboard the flight, added in a post sent to the Indian Embassy on X: The airport staff is furious about the landing, even though its not the passengers fault. They are even demanding their passports. My family is worried as Tysons phone battery is low, and he may soon lose contact with us. Please do something. Other passengers claimed there was only one toilet in the terminal building they were being kept in, as well as saying that no blankets or bedding were provided despite single-digit overnight temperatures. Weather reports from the airport recorded temperatures as low as 4c. The case has made headlines in the Indian news media thanks to the large number of Indian nationals aboard the flight. Indias Turkish embassy told the India Today news website that it was in constant communication with Virgin Atlantic Airlines, Diyarbakir Airport Directorate, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Turkiye. Many of the Indian nationals aboard the non-stop flight did not have visas for Turkey, meaning they were not allowed to leave Diyarbakir airport for local hotels. Just after 10am, a replacement Virgin flight took off from Turkey to Mumbai. Passenger Loveena Tandon said in a video posted to X: Happy Passengers of @VirginAtlantic flight VS358 stranded in a military base in Turkey now boarding ! Thanks @virginmedia for your help and responding to me promptly ! https://t.co/tbZPrArbXh pic.twitter.com/nzEmJUsper loveena tandon (@loveenatandon) April 4, 2025 A Virgin Atlantic spokesman said: The VS358 flight from London Heathrow to Mumbai on 2nd April was cancelled due to an urgent medical diversion to Diyarbakr Airport in Turkey, followed by technical inspections of the aircraft. The safety and security of our customers and crew remains our highest priority, and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused. With the necessary technical approvals now in place, we will continue flight VS1358 from Diyarbakr Airport at approximately 12:00 local time on Friday, 4th April, arriving in Mumbai at approximately 20:30 local. The majority of our customers were provided with overnight hotel accommodation ahead of their onward journey today. Wed like to sincerely apologise for the delay and any inconvenience caused. Tony Cane-Honeysett created moving images of his mother, Mary, using artificial intelligence, almost a decade after her death A filmmaker has used AI to bring his late mother back to life in a documentary. Tony Cane-Honeysett created moving images of his mother, Mary, using artificial intelligence software, almost a decade after her death. He also recreated her voice to narrate the film I Brought My Mum Back to Life with AI, which follows her early life in London from 1928 to 1949. The project, which is available on YouTube, has been released amid a growing debate about the use of AI in the arts as it becomes increasingly powerful. In February, some of Britains most prominent artists, including Kate Bush, Stephen Fry and Thom Yorke, signed a petition alongside 40,000 people urging the Government to protect the arts from AI. But Mr Cane-Honeysett, 69, a London-born filmmaker based in Los Angeles, believes AI is a game-changing tool to preserve personal history in a way that was never previously possible. He said: My mom left behind an unpublished book of her early life. It was very crudely done with old family photos. When she died in 2016, I took everything shed written 14 chapters and, by cloning her voice, got her to narrate the entire book. Then I had to restore, colourise, and animate those photos to fit the narrative. It all fits together into a documentary. The documentary begins with AI-generated footage of his mothers birth, as she narrates: I entered this world on Nov 28 in the front bedroom of 1 Prothero Road, Fulham, in London. It then moves on to scenes from her childhood, showing her falling down a flight of stairs as a toddler, being clutched by relatives, and spending time with her family around the house. Credit: Films by Tony Cane-Honeysett Credit: Films by Tony Cane-Honeysett In one section, she talks about her love of the child actor Shirley Temple and how she longs to have her curly hair. Mr Cane-Honeysett said: Thanks to AI, it gave me the opportunity to bring her words to life in her own words. Its still kind of her talking from the grave, which is strange, but I loved it at the same time. While some scenes can hardly be distinguished from real-life footage, others are clearly AI-generated, with shots of malformed cars and a double-decker bus with unintelligible writing on its side. AI software is adept at creating realistic faces and objects, but often struggles with text. Mary Cane-Honeysett was a talented amateur artist, despite having a visual impairment, and her son has made two previous documentaries about her life with real footage. These included the Royal Academy in 2004, which tracked her attempts to have her work accepted by the Royal Academy of Art, and Brushstroke in 2023, which focused on her learning to paint again after a stroke. The latest documentary comes amid a growing trend of AI being used to effectively bring peoples loved ones back to life. There are now companies dedicated to using AI to create convincing avatars of dead people, which can simulate their voice, mannerisms and movements. An unstoppable force While this has raised ethical concerns, Mr Cane-Honeysett believes that AI is here to stay. I think AI is an unstoppable force, he said. It will replace real actors. Hollywood knows it. If AI is great now, this is the worst its ever going to be it will only get better. More and more people will be able to do this. AI gives us the ability to bring stories to life in ways we never could before. For me, this project is deeply personal, and I feel like, in a way, I get to spend more time with my mother. Im learning about her in a way I never had the chance to when she was alive. A nine-year-old with a rare neurological condition is hoping to be the lucky charm for a Grand National runner. Joshua Duckworth, who lives in Aintree and has life-limiting condition 4H leukodystrophy, rubbed a lucky medal on the nose of his favourite horse, Iroko, on a visit to his Cheshire stables last month. While visiting the yard, he also made the good luck gesture to horse Jagwar who went on to win the TrustATrader Plate Handicap Chase at last months Cheltenham Festival. Nine-year-old Joshua Duckworth has been announced as the honorary 35th runner for the @RandoxHealth Grand National Joshua is under the care of @AlderHey's Neurology team and has been visited by several famous racing faces Read more https://t.co/T9YQFXLysq pic.twitter.com/xJdNudPe1F Aintree Racecourse (@AintreeRaces) January 29, 2025 Joshua said: I love horseracing and I love Iroko. It was great to meet him where he lives and I hope rubbing my lucky coin will help him win. Ill be cheering him on at Aintree. Josh Guerriero, who is joint trainer of Iroko with Oliver Greenall, said: Weve loved meeting Joshua and his family. It was brilliant having them on the yard, they had a great time watching horses on the gallops and seeing the facilities. You could see how much he enjoyed meeting Iroko and we hope that him rubbing his lucky coin will bring him as much fortune in the National as it did for Jagwar at Cheltenham. The medal was given to Joshua after he met a member of Brentford Football Clubs security team called Andy. His father Christopher said: Joshua melted his heart, and when he saw him again Andy gave Joshua a lucky medal from his Army days and said the medal always kept him safe and strong. He said it was lucky and wanted Joshua to have it to protect him and keep him safe and strong against his disease. Joshua wanted to take this medal to Josh and Ollys yard to wish Iroko luck and to keep Iroko safe and protect him in the race. Joshua will be bringing it to Aintree too. Aidan Kelly on Iroko after winning at Cheltenham in 2023 (David Davies for The Jockey Club/PA) Joshua has been named as the honorary 35th runner in the world-famous steeplechase, which takes place at 4pm on Saturday. The role was created for neuroblastoma campaigner Bradley Lowery in 2017, three months before his death, and has since been used to highlight youngsters and the work of Alder Hey Childrens Hospital and charity. Joshua is being treated for his condition at Alder Hey and was at the Liverpool hospital on Friday to meet 2012 Grand National-winning horse Neptune Collonges and jockeys on their annual visit. Mr Duckworth added: Its a huge honour for Josh to be this years 35th runner in a race like the Randox Grand National. The opportunities Aintree have given to Josh and us as a family have been amazing. He had a great time meeting Josh and Oliver at their yard and loved seeing the horses up close. Well have everything crossed that Iroko can win the Grand National but itll be a day well never forget whatever the result. There are about 30,000 garment workers in Lesotho, mostly women, with 12,000 making clothes for US brands in Chinese- and Taiwanese-owned factories. Photograph: Siphiwe Sibeko/Reuters The day after Donald Trump announced sweeping global tariffs, Lesothos garment workers feared for their jobs. Last year, Lesotho sent about 20% of its $1.1bn (845m) of exports to the US, most of it clothing under a continent-wide trade agreement meant to help African countries development via tariff-free exports, as well as diamonds. Now, all that is at risk, after the US president imposed a 50% tariff on the impoverished landlocked country, which he claimed last month nobody had ever heard of. Makhotso Moeti moved to Lesothos capital, Maseru, from the rural centre of the tiny mountainous kingdom entirely surrounded by South Africa. Factory work is the only job Ive known for many years, said Moeti, who attaches labels to Gap clothing. If the factories shut down, I wont have many options left. Ill be forced to return home to the very poverty I thought I had escaped when I moved to the city. On Wednesday, Trump unveiled what he claimed were reciprocal tariffs, overturning decades of global trade policy. The tariff rates, which are due to come into force on 9 April, range from 10% to 50% and were calculated with what economists labelled an idiotic formula, penalising countries that have the highest trade surpluses with the US relative to their imports from the US. Dr Ratjomose Machema, a lecturer in economics at the National University of Lesotho, said: I dont understand how this is a reciprocal tariff because we really dont charge that much in tariffs. Lesotho, which has a population of 2.3 million, was hit with the highest rate. In Africa, it was followed by Madagascar, a vanilla exporter, with a tariff of 47%; Botswana, a diamond producer, on 37%; oil-rich Angola with 32%; and the continents most industrialised economy, South Africa, on 30%. Like the hard-hit, south-east Asian economies, the poor majority in these countries cannot afford expensive American products. In recent decades, China has overtaken western countries to become the largest trading partner of most African countries. According to the African Growth and Opportunities Act (Agoa) US data portal, Lesotho exported $237m of goods last year to the US and imported $2.8m. Agoa, which has allowed tariff-free access to the US market for thousands of product types since 2000, created a thriving garment industry, accounting for about 20% of GDP. There are about 30,000 garment workers in Lesotho, mostly women, with 12,000 making clothes for US brands including Levis, Calvin Klein and Walmart in Chinese- and Taiwanese-owned factories. While most of the jobs pay the monthly minimum wage of $146-$163, they are still highly sought after in the poor, largely informal economy. In Madagascar, which has a population of about 32 million, Agoa has also nurtured a significant garment sector, which employs about 180,000 people in a country where GDP per head is just $575. In 2024, the island nation exported $733m of goods to the US, with clothing the top export, followed by vanilla. Ketakandriana Rafitoson, a political science researcher at the Catholic University of Madagascar, said: The textile and apparel sector is really a cornerstone of Madagascars economy [Tariffs] will have a drastic effect on the country. The future of Agoa, which will expire in September if it is not renewed by the US Congress, was looking precarious even before Trumps announcement. Lesothos trade minister, Mokhethi Shelile, said officials, who had been preparing to travel to the US to ask for an Agoa extension, would argue that the tariff calculations did not include digital services from US companies such as Android and Microsoft. Related: Asian countries riven by war and disaster face some of steepest Trump tariffs He added: That being said, we recognise that we cannot rely solely on the American market. A fact sheet published by the White House to accompany Trumps tariff announcement said: Todays action simply asks other countries to treat us like we treat them. Its the golden rule for our golden age. In Lesotho, Nthabiseng Khalele, a garment worker sheltering from the rain after a long day in the factory, said: My hope and wish is that our prime minister could somehow reach out to President Trump and ask him to at least show some compassion for Lesotho. If we lose our jobs here, Im almost certain that many of us will end up sleeping on empty stomachs. Russian drone strikes targeting Ukraine The number of Russian drone strikes targeting Ukraine has surged by more than 50 per cent since US-led peace talks began in mid-February, Telegraph analysis has found. In the 30 days following Feb 18, when the peace talks began, some 4,776 drone strikes were launched by Russia, compared to 3,148 drone strikes in the 30 days before, according to Ukrainian Air Force Command updates. Experts said that Moscow has ramped up its attacks to force concessions from Kyiv and take control over as much land as possible as Donald Trump, the US president, pledged to bring a swift end to the fighting. Ukraine is also finding it increasingly difficult to intercept Russian missiles, resulting in more civilian targets being hit by Russia. Russia is trying to increase the pain it is inflicting on Ukraine to make it more likely that Kyiv will make painful concessions and to show that Russia can continue the fight indefinitely, said Daniel Byman, director of the Warfare, Irregular Threats, and Terrorism Program at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). The Feb 18 meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marked the first time that US and Russian officials met to discuss the conflict and was notable for excluding Ukraine. I think I have the power to end this war, Mr Trump said following the meeting. But since then, the Kremlin has prevaricated and made a series of unrealistic demands, including the permanent annexation of the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts, as well as Crimea. While the warring sides went on to agree a US-brokered 30-day ceasefire covering energy infrastructure and the Black Sea, there is little sign that strikes are slowing down. Figures show that Ukraine was, on average, the target of 101 drones per day before the meeting in Riyadh, compared to 154 per day afterwards, an increase of 52.5 per cent. Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, said that Russia is attempting to get into a stronger military position before any ceasefire. They want to improve their situation on the battlefield, he said in March, while Mr Trump this week said he was very angry with Vladimir Putin after weeks of attempting to negotiate. In particular, the Russian military has focused on reclaiming land in its Kursk region, which Ukraine captured in a shock counter-offensive in August. Telegraph analysis also found attacks spiked on the days when Mr Trump publicly chastised Mr Zelensky in the Oval Office and the US stopped sharing intelligence with Ukraine. On Feb 28, when the US president accused his Ukrainian counterpart of not being grateful enough for American support, 208 Russian drones were launched at Ukraine, compared to 166 the previous day. On March 7, when the US suspended intelligence sharing with Ukraine, Russia launched 252 drones at the embattled country, the second highest number this year. Its clear that the Russians were trying to exploit the pause in intelligence sharing, said Karolina Hird, Russia deputy team lead and analyst at the Institute of War (ISW). Analysis also found that Moscows attacks have become bigger and more effective in recent weeks, in part due to Russia changing drone tactics. According to the ISW, the Russian military has switched to long-range drones that have been more successful in breaching Ukraines air defence umbrella. The Russian strike packages are getting bigger and more effective, said Ms Hird. [This] is a tactical development that is incongruent with Russian claims that they are ready for peace. Ukraine, meanwhile, is increasingly struggling to intercept Russian drones and missiles. According to Telegraph analysis, Kyivs interception rate was consistently above 60 per cent in the summer of 2024, but in the past two months has fallen to 50 per cent or less. The Ukrainians, understandably, have realised that they have to be more conservative with their defence systems, which were already scarce, said Ms Hird. This drop has raised serious concerns among military analysts. Benjamin Jensen, a professor of Strategic Studies at the Marine Corps University School of Advanced Warfighting, said recently that decreasing interception rates could lead to opportunities for a Russian breakout on the front or increased civilian deaths that put domestic pressure on Ukrainian negotiators. However, Ukraine has also ramped up its drone campaign in recent weeks, though to a lesser degree. According to Telegraph analysis of data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED), Ukraine launched an average of 30 drones per day in the weeks leading up to the peace talks. That number increased by 16.7 per cent, to 35 per day, in the latter half of February and the first half of March. Ukraine has also changed its targets, shifting from direct military confrontations to disrupting Russian economic infrastructure, in an effort to weaken Moscows long-term ability to sustain the war. Unlike Ukrainian attacks in previous months, which mostly hit military sites, ACLED data show that over half of Januarys strikes targeted oil, gas, and energy infrastructure, said Olha Polishchuk, Eastern Europe research manager with ACLED. This directly followed Russias targeting of Ukrainian energy infrastructure in December which was one of the largest waves of strikes on Ukraines energy after it had already damaged 80 per cent of coal- and gas-powered electricity generation between March and August. Russia has also continued to target civilian infrastructure. On the evening before the first round of peace talks between Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, and Sergey Lavrov, Russian foreign minister, Russia launched 176 drones in a large-scale overnight attack. A residential building was hit in Dolynska, injuring a mother and two children, while in Odessa, four people, including a child, were injured. On the same day, Ukraine hit major oil pipelines in southern Russias Kropotkinskaya. This tit-for-tat escalation underscores the fragile nature of the ongoing negotiations, experts say, while the confusion surrounding a ceasefire ultimately appears to be benefiting Russia. The diplomatic advantage for Russia here is the injection of confusion while there is not yet any sort of codified, agreed-upon ceasefire on strikes, Russia keeps striking Ukraine, Ukraine keeps hitting Russian energy infrastructure, and Russia can claim that Ukraine is violating a [non-existent] ceasefire, Ms Hird said. This confusion benefits Russia, as the Kremlin can claim it is interested in peace and Ukraine is not, but the data runs very contrary to that allegation, she said. Rupert Lowe has been accused of harassing two members of staff, along with his Reform UK team - Oli Scarff/AFP An independent review has raised concerns over Reform UKs investigation into Rupert Lowe. Last week, a report into the MP for Great Yarmouth found that there was credible evidence he and his team had harassed two members of staff. Mr Lowe, who now sits as an independent, was suspended by Reform last month after he broke ranks to criticise Nigel Farage, the partys leader. On Friday, a separate report commissioned by the law firm Irwin Mitchell on behalf of Mr Lowe was critical of a number of aspects of Jacqueline Perry KCs findings. Gemma White KC, the author of the review, wrote that the investigation was not set up in the way I would have expected, adding: On the basis of the information available to me the party does not appear to have appointed an investigator with current expertise in conducting independent investigations into allegations of bullying and harassment. Second, despite informing Mr Lowe on Feb 28 that terms of reference for the investigation will be set out in due course, no terms of reference were ever set by the party. Rupert Lowe was suspended days after suggesting Nigel Farage was acting like a messiah - Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Ms White went on to say there were elements of the investigation she considered to represent good practice. But she added: I do not consider the extent of the KCs communications with Mr Lowe over WhatsApp to represent good practice for an independent investigator. Nor do I consider her decision to produce witness statements on behalf of the complainants to have been appropriate. Mr Lowe repeatedly stated during the investigation process that he would not co-operate with it, suggesting it was a witch-hunt following his criticisms of Mr Farage. Two days before his suspension, the Daily Mail had published an interview in which Mr Lowe cast doubt on Mr Farages leadership and suggested he was acting like a messiah. Reform unfit to govern In her concluding remarks, Ms White said Ms Perrys conclusions had prompted real questions as to the extent to which the KC was conducting the investigation independently of the influence of the party. Ms White said in her report she had not had access to internal communications, and she [did] not know precisely how the investigation was set up or how it was conducted. Mr Lowe, who denies the allegations against him, said: I welcome the conclusions of this independent review. It confirms what I have said throughout that the process was fundamentally flawed, unfair and influenced by political motivations. In 67 years, I have never seen such vile and unprofessional behaviour, including, but not limited to, publicly shaming my staff without even giving them the opportunity to respond to the false and damaging allegations. Reform has proven itself not only unfit to govern but unfit to sit in the House of Commons. To handle such a basic process in a hideously unprofessional and malicious manner is simply unacceptable. Ms Perrys report was published on March 25 and her conclusion was that the contents of complaints against Mr Lowe do seem to amount to harassment on the part of both Mr Lowe and his constituency team. No way back for Lowe One of the complaints against him was made by a female employee in his parliamentary office and the other by a female employee in his constituency office. The first woman said in her complaint that she was subject to constant criticism, meted out unpleasantly and harshly by the contractor, whom she began to feel she could not please. The second woman, who worked at the Great Yarmouth constituency office, complained of being treated quite differently and discriminatorily from others. Last month, Mr Farage said that there was no way back for Mr Lowe into Reform and accused him of disgusting behaviour that could harm the partys local election prospects. Reform sources noted that Ms Whites report had been commissioned by Mr Lowe. They said that she had not spoken to the complainants or Reform. Last night it was reported Mr Lowes personal gun collection was seized by police after he made threats towards Reform UK chairman Zia Yousef. The guns were taken from the MPs Cotswolds farm by Gloucestershire police last month, according to the Daily Express. A Reform UK spokesman said: Mr Lowe is being investigated by the police for making multiple threats to kill our chairman. The first was in December, the second in February. Unlike Mr Lowe, we respect their investigation and will let them do their work without lashing out and making false claims in public. Gloucestershire police were contacted for comment. John Swinney intends to bring together political and civic leaders for talks designed to lock out Reform - Ken Jack/Getty Images The leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats has said that it is wrong to no platform people ahead of a cross-party summit convened by the SNP government to counter the rise of Reform UK. John Swinney, the First Minister, intends to bring together political and civic leaders later this month for talks designed to lock out the Nigel Farage-led party. Speaking ahead of his partys conference in Inverness on Friday, Alex Cole-Hamilton said he had deep concerns about anything which aims to stifle a democratically elected voice. He told BBC Radio Scotland: I believe you defeat arguments you disagree with in open ground. You dont try and shut them out, you dont try and lock them in a dungeon somewhere, because that will martyr them, that will make them probably more popular, give them more air time and offer more grist to supporters mills. Mr Cole-Hamilton said he would engage with the First Minister in good faith, but added: I dont think its right that we should no-platform people. I think if people are democratically elected, they have every right to take their seat and I will defeat their arguments in open ground, but I am anxious about shutting the door on political parties. Alex Cole-Hamilton, right, with Jamie Greene, a former Conservative MSP who has defected to the Lib Dems - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images He refused to put a figure on the number of seats that his party would have to win in next years Holyrood election, but said hopes of winning the deputy first ministers seat at next years Holyrood election is not a pipe dream for his party. The party has said it would make the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch seat, held by Kate Forbes with a majority of nearly 16,000, a key target. Mr Cole-Hamilton was positive about the chances of ousting Ms Forbes, pointing to Angus MacDonalds victory at last years general election. The seat of the Lib Dem MP for Inverness, Skye and West Ross-shireoverlaps with that of Ms Forbes. The Scottish Lib Dem leader said that his party overturned a stupendous majority in the Highlands at the general election, and it hoped to build on that success next year. He said: Nobody saw us coming last year when Angus MacDonald won Charles Kennedys seat, which covers a large part of Kate Forbes seat. For the last 18 years, the SNP have neglected the Highlands, whether thats in transportation and more commonly in rural healthcare. The Lib Dems are coming back in numbers, thats why we are here in the Highlands putting the SNP on notice. We have our tails up The party leader also mentioned Maree Todds Caithness, Sutherland and Ross seat and Fergus Ewings seat in Inverness and Nairn as targets. Mr Ewing announced that he would not stand for the SNP at the 2026 election. Mr Cole-Hamilton said that were going to do significantly more than the partys current total of four MSPs. We have our tails up in this conference, weve just come off the back of the best election for liberals in 100 years [and we have] 72 MPs now delivering liberal priorities in the House of Commons. We aim to replicate that in the Scottish Parliament. Mr Cole-Hamilton said the absolute focus of his partys two-day spring conference would be social care. Were going to be doing some radical policy development around social care which is the key to unlocking so much of not just the rural health crisis in the Highlands but the health crisis throughout the whole of Scotland. There are broad guidelines for washing frequency, but each individuals needs may vary based on their habits, health and lifestyles, says Lori Williamson. Photograph: Leslie Thrasher Is there any domestic task more sisyphean than laundry? No sooner have you pulled a crisp, clean sheet on to your bed than it is time to strip it off and start over. Blink and a clean towel becomes dirty. Somehow, lives, careers and relationships must fit into the tiny slivers of time between loads. I dont enjoy laundry; give me dish duty any day. I do, however, enjoy living in a clean space that doesnt smell like a locker room. Textiles can really trap scent and bacteria. Just because you cant see dirt doesnt mean its clean, says Melissa Pateras, laundry expert and content creator. Dirt, skin, sweat and sebum are all invisible. Same with dust mites. We asked experts how often one should wash the various linens around the house. Related: Listen to your body: how to start running In the bedroom There are broad guidelines for washing frequency, but each individuals needs may vary based on their habits, health and lifestyles, says Lori Williamson, a lifestyle and cleaning expert. What I do and what other people do might be two different things, Williamson says. If you sweat a lot when you sleep or have aggressive allergies, you may need to wash bed linens more frequently. How often you wash each type of item depends on how much contact it has with your skin. Flat sheets, fitted sheets and pillow cases should be washed once a week because theyre touching your body every single night for eight hours, says Melissa Maker, a cleaning expert and founder of Clean My Space in Toronto. When you sleep, Maker explains, you produce sweat, body oil and dead skin cells. And if you use products on your hair and skin, all of that is transferring onto your sheets and they get dirty quick, she says. Its effectively like sleeping in dirty clothes. If you use a flat sheet, duvet covers can be washed less frequently because they make less direct contact with your skin. Pateras recommends washing duvet covers every two to four washes of the sheets so once or twice a month. This can be stretched. Maker says that getting her duvet cover on and off is a complicated endeavor, so she only washes it on an as-needed basis, like when her daughter was playing with makeup and smeared some lipstick on the bed. Pillows dont make direct contact with the skin, but still need cleaning. Pateras recommends washing cotton, feather and down pillows every 3 to 6 months by washing them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, then air drying them or drying them on low. Foam memory pillows cannot be washed in the machine they can only be spot cleaned, Pateras says, adding that pillows should be replaced every two-ish years. Washing pillows can be tricky, Williamson says, because it can be difficult to get them completely dry. If this is a concern, she recommends putting them through either a refresh cycle on your washing machine, which steam cleans fabrics and eliminates bacteria, or running them through the dryer a couple of times. Just getting air and heat to it can also help, she says. In the bathroom Fabrics in the bathroom face two major problems, Maker says. The first: This is gross, but the plume from the toilet can land on soft surfaces in the bathroom, she says. So close the toilet lid when you flush, she says. The second issue is mustiness. That comes from damp fabric sitting for long stretches of time, she says. Bath and hand towels should be washed at least once a week Pateras suggests hand towels be washed every two to three days. A towel can only sit wet so many times before it starts to smell, says Maker. Williamson says she uses bath towels three to five times before washing. Between washes, make sure to air your towels out, she says hang them out to dry rather than crumpling them in a corner where the wet fabric might collect foam and mildew. Bath mats are often a forgotten part of the bathroom, Maker says. But they can quickly collect moisture, toothpaste and splashes from the toilet, as well as develop mold, mildew and bacteria. Experts recommend they be washed at least once a week. Just bunch it up and throw it in with the towels, Maker says. If thats too hard to remember, you could always do away with fabric bath mats entirely. Williamson says she uses a stone bath mat that dries quickly. Youre not dealing with any kind of smell, she says. Bathrobes live in a damp environment and spend a lot of time in direct contact with our skin, so Pateras suggests cleaning them once a month. In the rest of the house The kitchen is where youre going to see the highest spread of bacteria and the sink is generally the dirtiest place in the kitchen, says Maker. As a result, dish cloths should be washed daily, says Pateras. No need to run a full load for a single dish cloth stock up on multiple, and when you are done with one, swap it out for another. Just make sure to rinse the old one and let it dry completely before you throw it into the laundry basket with other fabrics, Maker says; if it stays damp, it could make the rest of the laundry moldy and smelly. Williamson suggests paying attention to the state of your tote bags. People are using them frequently, theyre being put into grocery baskets and food is being dropped into them, she says. Throw them in the laundry as needed. Throw blankets are often overlooked, but should be washed about once a month, Williamson says. They collect dust, different people around the house are using them, and pets snuggle up in them, she says. Related: Are you doing laundry all wrong? An expert guide to caring for your clothes In the washer When you wash your linens, make sure to do so in a way that will actually get them clean. People are overloading their machines, says Williamson. If you put in too many items, each one wont be able to get clean and rinsed during the cycle. And dont overdo it with detergent, says Maker. If theres too much, fabrics especially absorbent ones like towels will absorb it, and the retained detergent can then trap odors. When in doubt, just follow the instructions on the label, says Pateras. Protesters opposed to impeached South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol react after hearing the Constitutional Courts verdict - Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images A South Korean court has removed President Yoon Suk Yeol from office after he was impeached for a botched declaration of martial law. The countrys constitutional court unanimously upheld the impeachment of Mr Yoon, who was arrested in January on charges of insurrection after he attempted and failed to impose martial law. His Dec 3 martial law decree lasted six hours as it was voted down by lawmakers, but it plunged the normally stable democracy into its worst political crisis in decades. The verdict requires the country to hold a snap election within 60 days to determine Mr Yoons successor, likely to fall in early June. Mr Yoon was impeached over the failed coup in December by the countrys opposition-controlled National Assembly, where chaos erupted as the president sent troops into the governing chamber to stop politicians from voting down the decree. Large crowds of Mr Yoons supporters and detractors gathered to watch the ruling handed down by acting court chief Moon Hyung-bae on live television, with some waving Korean and American flags. A supporter of Mr Yoon reacts after the court upheld the presidents impeachment - Ahn Young-joon/AP In the ruling, Mr Moon said Mr Yoons violations of the law are grave, making the benefits of protecting the constitution by dismissing the defendant larger than the national losses from dismissing the president by an overwhelming degree. Following the ruling, the countrys acting president, Han Duck-soo, vowed in a televised address to maintain stability and ensure that there is no vacuum in national security or foreign affairs, Yonhap News reported. Mr Yoons party, the ruling People Power Party (PPP), said it humbly accepts the ruling and underscored the role of the court as the way to uphold democracy and the rule of law. Though it is regrettable, the PPP solemnly accepts and humbly respects the Constitutional Courts decision, Kwon Young-se, the PPPs interim leader, said. The opposition Democratic Party hailed the ruling as a great victory for the people, and marked it as a historic day when we defended the constitution and safeguarded democracy against the forces that sought to destroy it, the partys senior spokesman, Cho Seung-rae, said. Mr Yoons arrest on insurrection charges is separate to todays ruling. He is the first South Korean head of state to be detained in a criminal investigation and potentially faces life in prison or the death penalty. Police stormed the presidential compound in January after a weeks-long standoff between officers and the presidents supporters outside his residence, where Mr Yoon had holed up in defiance of an arrest warrant. A court in March annulled the warrant, but Mr Yoon will still face trial for the charges. The turmoil began just before 11pm local time on Dec 3, when the president appeared on television to make a surprise declaration: South Korea was now under military rule. As president of the Republic of Korea, I appeal to the nation with a bleeding heart, Mr Yoon said. He then went on to blame North Korea and a den of criminals within the National Assembly, which he claimed had brought the country to the brink of collapse and was a monster that destroys the liberal democratic system. Mr Yoon had been facing possible impeachment over a number of corruption scandals, including allegations of bribery against his wife over a Dior handbag which he vetoed opposition attempts to investigate. Thousands of protesters soon poured into the streets, where they were met by members of the countrys security forces. Helicopters circling overhead and tanks blocking the roads did not deter the demonstrators, who gathered outside parliament and defied special forces who were there to enforce the decree. Those same special forces soon tried to storm parliament, clashing with MPs who had raced to the building and created makeshift barricades inside to block the soldiers, who were breaking windows to stop the functions of government. Of the countrys 300 MPs, 190 made it to the chamber that night, and two hours and 48 minutes after Mr Yoons television appearance, members of his own party were among the majority who voted down the martial law declaration. MPs and protesters remained in place to ensure that the power grab would really end, and early the next morning, Mr Yoon announced the resolution was cancelled. The countrys political crisis deepened when, less than two weeks after Mr Yoon was ousted, politicians voted to impeach Mr Han over a perceived failure to bring Mr Yoon to justice over his actions. Union Jack flag with behind a a European Union The world economy is still reeling from Donald Trumps blizzard of tariffs. China is the latest to retaliate, with 34 per cent tariffs on US imports. The worst trade war since the 1930s now looms. With the markets already anticipating a recession, both in America and beyond, it is imperative that Britain acts swiftly to avoid being swallowed up in this global maelstrom. The Prime Minister seems to have hunkered down, leaving his impetuous Foreign Secretary David Lammy to hint at retaliation, with his remark on a visit to Brussels that all options are on the table. This is mere posturing. Retaliatory tariffs would achieve nothing but higher prices for consumers and would risk countermeasures from Washington. The former chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, is on the right track, though, by calling on the Government to revive the vision of Britain as Singapore-on-Thames. After Brexit, there was genuine enthusiasm for plans to turn the UK into a low-tax haven for international trade and investment. Alas, that opportunity was squandered. Instead, inertia took hold and we have clung to the European model outside the EU the worst of both worlds. Time has now run out for that model, with its crippling fiscal burden and unaffordable welfare bills. Only a leaner, more agile British economy will be able to navigate a course through the storms ahead. Both the US and the EU have just become more expensive places in which to do business. This gives London and our other cities a chance to seize the commercial initiative. In a protectionist world, Rachel Reeves must do more than promise to be just a little less profligate. Her Spring Statement may only be a week old, but it is already a museum piece. Nothing less than root-and-branch reform of the public finances will do now, and if she cannot deliver it, Sir Keir needs to find a chancellor who can. David Ricardo, the British economist who conceived the theory of comparative advantage the basic principle of free trade wrote: Taxation under every form presents but a choice of evils. Unless we take Ricardos insights to heart, Britain has a bleak future. Instead of forcing wealthy non-doms to emigrate, the taxation system must be redesigned to make the UK a magnet for prosperity. And rather than raise retaliatory tariffs, we should embrace the comparative advantages that flow from our historic status as the champions of free trade. A state road crew clears drains on Friday in Paducah, Kentucky. Photograph: Michael Swensen/Getty Images Donald Trump on Friday approved an emergency declaration for Kentucky as the central US braces for what experts in the region have warned could be a generational flooding event, as severe spring storms that have killed at least seven continue to wreak havoc. Millions are affected across a swath of the US stretching from Texas to Ohio, and the powerful storm system that has raged for two days is expected to stall over the countrys midsection, the National Weather Service (NWS) said, fueling further deluges and possible tornadoes in areas already drenched from thunderstorms bringing heavy rains. The dangerous weather comes as the Associated Press revealed that due to Trump administration job cuts, nearly half of National Weather Service forecast offices have 20% vacancy rates, according to data obtained by the agency. Detailed vacancy data for all 122 weather field offices show eight offices are missing more than 35% of their staff including those in Arkansas and Kentucky where tornadoes and torrential rain hit this week according to statistics crowd-sourced by more than a dozen National Weather Service employees. Experts said vacancy rates of 20% or higher amount to critical understaffing, and 55 of the 122 sites reach that level. The weather offices issue routine daily forecasts, but also urgent up-to-the-minute warnings during dangerous storm outbreaks such as the tornadoes that killed seven people this week and catastrophic flooding thats continuing through the weekend. The weather service this week has logged at least 75 tornado and 1,277 severe weather preliminary reports as the center of the US has been hit by extreme weather conditions. Authorities in Frankfort, Kentucky, reported on Friday morning that after hours of searching for a missing child, a body was recovered from flood water where it is suspected a juvenile was swept away while walking to a bus stop, according to local media. Local officials reportedly identified the boy as Gabriel Andrews, aged nine. His death was in addition to seven already reported elsewhere in the central region on Thursday. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema) announced on Friday morning that federal disaster assistance is being made available to Kentucky to supplement response efforts in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding, beginning on April 2 and continuing. The agency said the presidential authorization gives Fema the role of coordinating all disaster-relief efforts for all 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Related: Potentially historic flooding threat looms after almost 100 tornadoes hit US Meanwhile, the NWS office in Memphis, Tennessee, said on Friday morning that total rainfall amounts through Sunday could exceed 10-15in across a wide area. This is not your average flood risk. Generational flooding with devastating impacts is possible, the service said, according to local media reports. Farther west, more twisters are expected. Were concerned there could be some strong but essentially intense tornadoes across north-east Texas up into western Arkansas, said Evan Bentley, a forecaster at the NWS Storm Prediction Center. The NWS upgraded the storms to a risk level 4, out of a scale of five used to measure the expected intensity of severe weather. Only 10 to 12 storms are given that rating each year, making them pretty rare, Bentley said. Fatalities reported since Wednesday include a father and his 16-year-old daughter, who were killed when a tornado hit their modular home in Tennessee, according to the New York Times. An emergency was already declared in Tennessee. Five people in total died in Tennessee in weather-related incidents, and one in Indiana and one in Missouri, NBC News reported. At least 13 were injured across the region. About 34 tornadoes were reported across the region on Wednesday, according to the Storm Prediction Center. It confirmed that at least one tornado touched down in Wilmington, Ohio. Twisters were confirmed overnight in six states: Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee. The climate crisis is bringing heavier rainfall and related flood risks to most parts of the US, with the upper midwest and Ohio River valley among the regions most affected, according to Climate Central, an independent non-profit that researches weather patterns. On Thursday, the risk of rainfall topping flash-flood guidance was at 40% or higher for an area stretching from western Arkansas north-east to south-western Ohio, according to NWS maps. Related: Severe storms and tornadoes hit US south and midwest, killing at least seven Flash-flood warnings are in effect in the Ohio River valley from the north-western corner of Mississippi to north-eastern Kentucky, with the NWS warning that such events will have the potential to become catastrophic and life-threatening. The NWS is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa). The wave of severe weather is one of the first since the Trump administration began to sharply cut Noaas workforce. The layoffs and a buyout program are expected to shrink the agencys headcount by roughly 20% and could hamper some of its operations, scientists and researchers have said. Trump has also attacked Fema and last month signed an executive order that seeks to shift responsibility for disaster preparations to state and local governments. Reuters contributed reporting US President Donald Trump has said a deal to find a buyer for the US operations of TikTok is very close, with the video app facing a ban if it is not sold by the weekend. A law passed in the US last year demanded the sale of the app by TikToks parent firm, ByteDance. The platform went offline for a day in January when an initial deadline for the sale passed, until Mr Trump stepped in and delayed the ban until April 5. The law banning TikTok in the US unless its Chinese owners sell is based on fears that the app poses a national security risk, because the Chinese government could attempt to access TikToks trove of data on US users, or use it to carry out influence operations something Beijing and TikTok have denied. Mr Trump said a deal is very close (AP) Speaking aboard Air Force One on Thursday, Mr Trump said multiple investors were close to securing a deal, with reports of a number of potential buyers being in the frame. The US President has previously suggested that he would be willing to offer China some relief from US tariffs if it agrees to a sale. It was reported earlier this week that Amazon had submitted a last-minute offer to acquire TikTok, while Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison and Trump ally Elon Musk have previously been linked with the app. Other potential bidders include billionaire Frank McCourt, Tim Stokely, the British founder of subscription site OnlyFans, and the worlds most popular YouTuber MrBeast real name Jimmy Donaldson who claimed earlier this year to be working with investors to put together a bid. The exact structure of any deal for TikToks US business remains unclear, with previous reports suggesting that the most likely buyer was one from the social media firms current array of non-Chinese investors, who would increase their stake in the company. The US law has demanded the sale of US operations (AP) It has also been reported that the White House has considered an option whereby ByteDance keeps ownership of the TikTok algorithm, but then leases it to the new entity operating the social media platform in the US. What also remains unclear is what would happen if any sale does not happen before the April 5 deadline. Mr Trump has previously said he would probably offer another extension if needed. Kelsey Chickering, principal analyst at Forrester, said it was highly unlikely that TikTok would go dark again, as it did briefly in January, and that all signs point to a deal or another extension. She added that the fate of TikToks algorithm would be a key part of any deal, as it would shape the apps usefulness going forward, and the wider social media landscape as a result. If TikTok divests in the US, the real question is whether its algorithm comes with the sale, she said. TikTok without its algorithm is like Harry Potter without his wand its simply not as powerful. TikTok operates on a content graph, not a social graph, which means it analyses thousands of user signals to determine what content and creators the user will want to watch, making it hyper relevant and highly addictive. In fact, our data shows 31% of US online adults consider TikTok to be addictive, more than any other social media platform, Ms Chickering added. Last April, we asked TikTok users about a TikTok sale, and 54% said theyre concerned if TikTok is sold and run by a different company that it wont be as good of an experience as it is now. If the TikTok experience degrades, users, creators, and advertisers will spend more time and money on other media channels. Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State, speaks at his first Nato meeting of foreign ministers - JACQUELYN MARTIN/AFP Donald Trump will not engage in endless negotiations with Vladimir Putin over a Ukraine ceasefire, his state secretary said, as Nato allies urged the US president to ratchet up pressure on Russia. Speaking at his first Nato meeting of foreign ministers, Marco Rubio promised the US would know in a matter of weeks whether Russia was serious about peace. Britain and France had earlier pushed Mr Trump to adopt a stronger position against Putin, whose forces continue to target civilian and energy infrastructure in Ukraine after rejecting a US-backed ceasefire proposal. President Trump is not going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations about negotiations, Mr Rubio said. We will know soon enough, in a matter of weeks, not months, whether Russia is serious about peace or not. We will not continue this forever. We have a certain time when we will wait. We want to see during this time whether they are ready for peace or not. And the time is coming. He refused to give an official deadline for Putin to sign a deal, but suggested Mr Trumps patience was running out and said the US could ramp up sanctions on Russia. Marco Rubio suggested that President Trumps patience with Putin is running out - VYACHESLAV PROKOFYEV/AFP We hope that Moscow will be ready for peace Congress has already started working on a bill on sanctions and the pressure from the Capitol will already be growing. We will send our message to Moscow, and we hope that Moscow will be ready for peace. European governments have grown frustrated by Russias refusal to sign up to a ceasefire three weeks after Kyiv said it was ready to stop fighting to negotiate a peace treaty. There are fears that Mr Trump has been too soft on Putin as he attempts to reset relations between Washington and Moscow. The US president was quick to punish Ukraine by suspending military aid and intelligence sharing after accusing Volodymyr Zelensky of stalling his attempts to broker an end to the three-year war. But he has not yet followed through on his threats of devastating the Russian economy with sanctions for rejecting a US-Ukrainian proposal for a full and unconditional ceasefire. Putin snubbed the pause last month and made a US-backed truce in the Black Sea dependent on the West lifting some of its sanctions on Moscow. Russian forces have since ramped up long-range drone attacks against Ukrainian targets to unprecedented levels after the Kremlin chief rejected the offers. By the end of March, Moscow was launching over 1,000 one-way attack drones a week, according to a Nato intelligence assessment. Meanwhile, six children were among 14 Ukrainians to be killed on Friday evening in a Russian ballistic missile strike on Volodymyr Zelenskys home town. It came after Russia launched a series of drone strikes on Kharkiv overnight, killing at least four people and injuring 35 others, including three children. Earlier on Friday, David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, sought to convince Mr Trump that Putin was not yet serious about peace talks. It is still the case that our judgement is that Putin continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet. He could accept a ceasefire now, but he continues to bombard Ukraine, its civilian population, its energy supplies, Mr Lammy said in a joint press statement with his French counterpart. We see Vladimir Putin, we know what he is, and that is why we pledged to continue to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position in a military, economic, humanitarian context, and we continue to bear down the sanctions on Russia so they are willing to come to this negotiation. Jean-Noel Barrot, Frances foreign minister, added: Right now, our main problem is that Vladimir Putin is procrastinating, is trying to avoid these peace talks. Our responsibility as friends and partners of Ukraine is to build up pressure on Vladimir Putin to get him to sit at the negotiating table. But also to make the demonstration that the Ukrainians want peace, but that clearly Vladimir Putin has another idea in mind, and that by striking energy infrastructure, by continuing its war crimes, by announcing last week a new conscription of 160,000 soldiers clearly Vladimir Putin does not have any willingness to enter into a ceasefire and start peace negotiations. Britain and France are leading a European Coalition of the Willing to help secure any ceasefire deal brokered in Ukraine. French Chief of the Defence Staff General Thierry Burkhard (R) and Britain Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Tony Radakin (L) arrive in Kyiv for talks More than 30 nations have discussed plans to monitor any pause in the fighting and even put boots on the ground as part of security guarantees to deter any future Russian attacks. The Telegraph understands that talks over a possible troop deployment have stalled in recent weeks as politicians have failed to reach an agreement on the shape and size of the mission. Defence ministers from participating countries will meet in Brussels next week, with defence chiefs also set to huddle for further talks. Recent discussions have seemingly focused on what extra sanctions could be levelled against Putins Russia and immediate packages of military support for Ukraine as the fighting continues. 04:50 PM BST Thats all for today Thanks for following our live coverage of the war in Ukraine. It has now ended. Well be back soon with more updates and analysis. 04:25 PM BST Pictured: Aftermath of a Russian drone strike in Dnipro A view shows damaged houses and a vehicle at the site of a Russian drone strike - REUTERS 03:54 PM BST Kremlin says Putin and Trump have no plans to speak The Kremlin has said Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump had no plans to talk after a visit to Washington by Putins investment envoy as wider negotiations over a ceasefire in Ukraine appeared stalled. NBC News reported on Thursday that Trumps inner circle is advising him not to speak to Putin again until the Russian leader commits to a full ceasefire in Ukraine. Kirill Dmitriev, Putins investment envoy, said on Thursday that he saw a positive dynamic in relations between Moscow and Washington after holding two days of meetings in Washington, but said more meetings were needed to sort out differences. Asked on Friday whether Putin and Trump would now speak by phone, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: No, there are no plans for the next few days. There is nothing in the schedule for now. 03:20 PM BST Watch: Rubio speaks after Nato meeting 03:08 PM BST Putin is ready and desperate to do a deal with Trump All but drowned out by the hubbub over Donald Trumps tariffs, Vladimir Putin is this week making his own business pitch to the White House, writes Owen Matthews. The Kremlins smoothest money-man is in Washington for top-level talks aimed at launching a new era of business cooperation between the US and Russia. Envoy Kirill Dmitrievs task is to talk up a raft of supposedly huge mineral deals in the Arctic. And while hes about it, he is also to reset relations between the two countries which are, he says, exactly what the world needs for lasting global security and peace. Russia was notable by its absence from Trumps tariffs an unmistakable sign of favour. Nonetheless, The Kremlin has clearly been rattled by Trumps talk last week of being pissed off and very angry at Russias foot-dragging over ceasefire negotiations. For all their shortcomings not least on operational security Trumps national security team are not complete fools. Putins promises of various conditional ceasefires have proved worthless. 02:49 PM BST Vaticans foreign minister discusses Ukraine with Russias Lavrov The Vaticans foreign ministry Archbishop Paul Gallagher held a phone call with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to discuss the war in Ukraine and plans to stop the fighting, the Vatican said. Russias foreign ministry later said the call had been initiated by the Vatican, and that Lavrov and Gallagher had discussed ways to resolve the Ukrainian crisis with the obligatory reliable elimination of its root causes. The Vatican has regularly condemned Russias invasion of Ukraine but also called for negotiations to bring the war to an end. Russia and Ukraine agreed to a limited truce last month against launching attacks against the other sides energy facilities. Both have accused each other of violating the agreement, which was brokered by the United States. 02:09 PM BST Your views... 01:48 PM BST Ukraine could become arms trafficking hub after war Ukraine could become a global arms trafficking hub after the war with Russia ends, the law-enforcement wing of the EU has warned. Stockpiles of military-grade weapons, drones and ammunition left behind on battlefields will likely be exploited by organised crime groups when hostilities cease, according to a landmark report from Europol. The report titled The changing DNA of serious and organised crime said concerns persist about Ukraine becoming a significant source of illicit firearms and ammunition in the short to medium term. The 100-page report cited the example of how the Western Balkans emerged as one of the worlds largest sources for arms trafficking following the series of ethnic conflicts in Bosnia, Croatia, Serbia and Kosovo that erupted after the breakup of Yugoslavia in 1991. Tomasz Siemoniak, Minister of the Interior and Administration of the Republic of Poland, said: The ongoing armed conflict in Ukraine is a source of ever new threats to our internal security. Aware of this fact, we must identify and monitor these threats on an ongoing basis, reacting quickly and adequately. 01:25 PM BST Putin does not want peace here is the proof The number of Russian drone strikes targeting Ukraine has surged by more than 50 per cent since US-led peace talks began in mid-February, Telegraph analysis has found. In the 30 days following Feb 18, when the peace talks began, some 4,776 drone strikes were launched by Russia, compared to 3,148 drone strikes in the 30 days before, according to Ukrainian Air Force Command updates. Experts said that Moscow has ramped up its attacks to force concessions from Kyiv and take control over as much land as possible as Donald Trump, the US president, pledged to bring a swift end to the fighting. Ukraine is also finding it increasingly difficult to intercept Russian missiles, resulting in more civilian targets being hit by Russia. 01:01 PM BST Rubio: Matter of weeks to know if Russia serious about peace Marco Rubio has said that Donald Trump was not going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations with Russia over Ukraine, adding it would soon be clear if Moscow was serious about peace. We will know soon enough, in a matter of weeks, not months, whether Russia is serious about peace or not, Mr Rubio told journalists after a Nato meeting in Brussels. 12:22 PM BST Vaticans foreign minister discusses Ukraine with Russias Lavrov The Vaticans Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher held a phone call today with Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to discuss the war in Ukraine, the Vatican said in a statement. The two officials discussed the overall situation of the three-year conflict and some initiatives aimed at stopping the military actions, the statement said. 12:16 PM BST Pictured: Natos Rutte speaks from Brussels Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte attends a press conference - REUTERS/Yves Herman 12:15 PM BST Ball is in Russias court, says Rutte The ball regarding a Ukraine ceasefire is in the Russian court, Mr Rutte said. Several European ministers asked for a deadline to be set for Moscow to answer to the US proposal for a ceasefire, but Mr Rutte declined to say if he was in favour of that proposal. 12:11 PM BST Nato will spend more on defence Nato allies will spend more on defence, and many allies have begun to do so already, Mr Rutte said. He added that allies had heard from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the United States remained committed to the transatlantic alliance. 12:07 PM BST Safety guarentees must be given to Ukraine, Rutte says When asked about Ukraine, Mr Rutte highlighted several Nato member states contributions, including Poland, Denmark, and the Czech Republic. He stated that the shortest answer to questions about safety guarantees is implementing measures to ensure that Putin will never, ever try again to get one square kilometre or one square mile of Ukraine in the future, that he knows that there is a deterrence and a defence by which Ukraine can never be attacked in the future. Mr Rutte added: When you look at Nato and more generally, allies, what we are doing is providing Ukraine what they need to stay in the fight, and that is an enormous amount of defence support into Ukraine, defence equipment, including ammunition. 12:06 PM BST Nato committed to defending Ukraine Nato allies have assured Ukraine that they will continue to support the country today and to help build its armed forces for the future, according to Mr Rutte. He added that Nato supports the push for peace lead by the US and further efforts spearheaded by France and the UK. Mr Rutte said that Nato ministers met with the EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas to talk about the EUs plans to increase defence spending. 12:03 PM BST Nato needed more than ever, Rutte says Over the last two days of the summit, world leaders have agreed that the world grows more dangerous and that Nato is needed more than ever, Mark Rutte has said. He added that Nato faces real threats to our security, the most direct from Russia, but also from others, state and non-state in the High North, from the south, on the eastern flank and in cyberspace. Whatever the challenges we face, we need to make sure that we have the forces and capabilities necessary to deter aggression and defend ourselves should anyone make the mistake of attacking, he said, pledging to increase Nato spending. 11:58 AM BST Natos Rutte speaks from Brussels Mark Rutte, the Nato secretary general, is now giving a statement after two days of a Nato ministerial summit in Brussels. 11:44 AM BST Kremlin: Iran nuclear problem can only be solved diplomatically The Kremlin said Friday that tensions around Irans nuclear programme could only be solved diplomatically and called for restraint, after US President Donald Trump threatened to bomb Iran if it develops nuclear weapons. Trump last week had said there will be bombing of Iran if it does not drop its efforts to develop nuclear weapons. The problem of Irans nuclear dossier can only be solved by political-diplomatic means, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in response to a question by AFP, adding that all sides should show restraint and concentrate on diplomatic efforts. Trump wants Iran to negotiate a new nuclear deal after he pulled the US out of an agreement in 2018 that relieved sanctions on Tehran in return for curbing its nuclear programme. Russia and Iran are close allies, with Tehran one of the main backers of Moscows Ukraine offensive. 11:28 AM BST Russian forces take control of two settlements Russian troops have taken control of the settlements of Rozivka and Uspenivka in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region, Russias Defence Ministry said on Friday. Reuters could not independently confirm the battlefield report. 11:12 AM BST Trump advised not to call Putin until he agrees to truce Donald Trumps inner circle has warned him against speaking to Vladimir Putin until the Russian leader commits to a full ceasefire, according to reports. Administration officials told NBC News that there were no scheduled talks planned between the pair as of Thursday afternoon. On March 30, Mr Trump said he was very angry at Putin for his lack of willingness to agree to the ceasefire. Russian attacks against Ukraine continued on Friday, with Kharkiv hit by drone attacks that killed three people and injured dozens more. Five other people were injured in the regions of Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia and Kyiv, local authorities said. The Russian army carried out around six strikes in the Novobavarskyi district - Global Images Ukraine 11:05 AM BST Army chiefs meet in Kyiv Admiral Tony Radakin, the British Chief of the Defence Staff, and General Thierry Burkhard, the French Chief of the Defence Staff, have arrived in Kyiv for talks today. British Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Tony Radakin and French Chief of the Defence Staff General Thierry Burkhard - GENYA SAVILOV/AFP via Getty Images 10:50 AM BST Russia accuses Ukraine of attacking its energy infrastructure Russias Defence Ministry on Friday accused Ukraine of attacking Russian energy facilities six times in the past 24 hours despite a US-brokered moratorium on striking each others energy infrastructure, Russian news agencies reported. Reuters could not independently verify the alleged attacks. 10:25 AM BST Ukraine has addressed troop shortages Ukraine has addressed its troop shortages in the ongoing war with Russia, according to US General Christopher Cavoli. Mr Cavoli said that Kyiv has expanded its pool of eligible recruits, resolving manpower issues that were critical last autumn. Measures such as lowering the mobilisation age and offering incentives for enlistment have bolstered Ukraines military strength. Mr Cavoli also stressed the importance of continued US support, warning that any halt in weapons or intelligence aid would severely hinder Ukraines war effort. 10:09 AM BST Pictured: Destruction in Kharkiv An employee inspects the site of a car dealership facility hit by a Russian drone strike - REUTERS/Valentyn Ogirenko 09:54 AM BST Putin using ceasefire negotiations as leverage to seize territory Russia is using ongoing peace negotiations as a strategy to seize more territory in Ukraine, according to the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW). Analysts from the ISW suggested Moscow aims to leverage ceasefire talks to install a pro-Russian puppet government in Kyiv while continuing military operations if it cannot secure Ukraines full surrender through diplomatic means. 09:39 AM BST French and British army chiefs to meet in Kyiv French and British army chiefs are set to meet in Kyiv on Friday to advance plans for a Coalition of the Willing peacekeeping force. As Nato leaders met in Brussels this morning, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said that military capacity will be needed to support any future peace agreement, which is why the army chiefs are meeting in Kyiv to move this work forward. There will be at some point a need for military capacity or reassurance, whenever peace is reached. And this is the reason why our army chiefs will be in Kyiv today in order to advance this work, Mr Barrot said in Brussels, AFP reported. 09:22 AM BST Lammy meets Nato leaders in Brussels French and British officials are meeting in Brussels today. The meeting comes as France and the UK continue to advance plans for a coalition of the willing initiative, aimed at deploying European troops to enforce and maintain any peace agreement reached between Russia and Ukraine. Foreign Secretary David Lammy addresses the media during a meeting of Nato foreign ministers - Geert Vanden Wijngaert 09:08 AM BST Russian air defences repel drone approaching Moscow Russian air defence units intercepted a drone heading toward Moscow early Friday, Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported. Air defence units of the Defence Ministry repelled an attack by a drone flying towards Moscow, Mr Sobyanin wrote on Telegram. Emergency crews are currently working at the site where fragments of the drone fell. The incident temporarily disrupted operations at three of Moscows airports. 08:53 AM BST World leaders blame Russia for stalled ceasefire World leaders blamed Russia for thwarting a US push for peace in the Ukraine war as they joined together for a Nato meeting today. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Vladimir Putins talk of negotiations was nothing but empty promises and accused the Russian leader of playing for time by raising ever new demands. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Moscow owes an answer to the United States, that have worked very hard to come up with a mediation effort and a ceasefire proposal. It has to be yes. It has to be no. It has to be a quick answer, he said. Canadas Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said a deadline should be set for Russia to respond to the ceasefire offer. 08:37 AM BST Dmitriev sees positive dynamic in Russia-US relations Russian President Vladimir Putins investment envoy Kirill Dmitriev said on Thursday that he saw a positive dynamic in relations between Moscow and Washington, though more meetings were needed to sort out differences. Dmitriev, speaking after talks with officials from President Donald Trumps administration, also said he saw prospects for the beginning of a solution to the more than three-year-old war in Ukraine. Senior Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev answers questions from the press - Mehmet Eser/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock He said his talks in Washington had touched on matters as wide-ranging as rare metals production, cooperation in the Arctic and even crewed flight to Mars. He said work was proceeding on restoring direct air links. Without doubt, we note a positive dynamic in our relations, Russian news agencies quoted him as telling journalists in Washington. A series of meetings will still be needed for us to resolve all our differences. But the main thing we see a positive, creative attitude. 08:19 AM BST Lammy hits out at Putin David Lammy has accused Vladimir Putin of stalling on ceasefire negotiations with Ukraine. The Foreign Secretary highlighted Putins continued attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure as he hit out against the Russian president. Speaking at Nato headquarters in Brussels on Friday, Mr Lammy said: Our judgement is that Putin continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet. He could accept a ceasefire now, but he continues to bombard Ukraine, its civilian population, its energy supplies. We see you, Vladimir Putin. We know what youre doing, he added. Mr Lammy emphasised the urgency of bolstering support for Ukraine and increasing pressure on Russia to negotiate in good faith. We are pledged to continue to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position, militarily and economically, he said. 08:10 AM BST Russia still striking Ukraine energy infrastructure Frances foreign minister said Russia was still striking Ukraines energy infrastructure and accused Moscow of dragging its heels over US peace efforts. Over the past three weeks, Russia has been flip-flopping, continuing its strikes on energy infrastructure, continuing its war crimes, Jean-Noel Barrot said. 07:57 AM BST Pictured: Russian drones hti Kharkiv Rescuers carry the body of a resident found under debris of an apartment building damaged by a Russian drone strike - REUTERS/Sofiia Gatilova A resident runs away from a fire following Russias drone attack in Kharkiv - AP Photo/Yevhen Titov 07:46 AM BST Ukraine shoots down 42 drones overnight Ukrainian air defence units shot down 42 of 78 Russian drones launched overnight, while electronic warfare redirected 22 others, the air force reported. Drone attacks caused damage in the Dnipropetrovsk, Kyiv, and Zaporizhzhia regions. In Dnipro, three people were injured, and infrastructure and residential buildings were damaged. Thirteen drones were intercepted over the Dnipropetrovsk region. In the Kyiv region, two people were injured, while in Zaporizhzhia, seven drones struck targets, injuring one person. 07:44 AM BST Kharkiv hit by overnight attacks Russia launched a series of drone attacks on Kharkiv overnight, killing at least four people and injuring 35 others, including children, according to regional officials. The strikes targeted residential areas in the citys Novobavarskyi district, damaging multiple apartment buildings and sparking fires across several locations. Rescue teams worked through the night to search for survivors amid the rubble. Mayor Ihor Terekhov reported via Telegram that four fatalities had been confirmed, with one body recently recovered from the debris. Among the injured were three children. 07:42 AM BST Putin could agree to ceasefire, says Lammy Vladimir Putin could agree to the proposed ceasefire with Ukraine but continues to stall, Foreign Secretary David Lammy said on Friday upon arriving at Nato headquarters in Brussels for talks with his counterparts from Nato member states. Mr Lammy also emphasised the significance of hearing from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday, reaffirming Americas commitment to Nato. Two teenage boys have been found guilty of the robbery and burglary of a pensioner who was found unconscious on the floor of her bungalow and later died. The pair, now aged 17 and 16, had initially been arrested on suspicion of the murder of 82-year-old Joy Middleditch in March 2023. Mrs Middleditch, who lived in Pakefield, Suffolk, was found lying on the floor of her end-of-terrace bungalow in Grayson Avenue by concerned family members on March 25. Officers were called just after 1.50pm to reports that she had been found following a suspected robbery, the incident having happened during the early hours that day. She died in hospital in the early hours of March 27. Following the incident, it was found that a handbag containing a purse from within the property had been taken. Two boys aged 17 and 16 were found guilty of the robbery of Joy Middleditch, 82, who died in 2023. (PA) The two boys, who cannot be named for legal reason, were charged in April last year with robbery and burglary with intent to steal. Suffolk Police said both boys were found guilty of both charges on Friday following a three-day hearing at Great Yarmouth Youth Court. Detective constable Debra Bates said afterwards: This must have been a very traumatic incident for Mrs Middleditch. She was a vulnerable, elderly woman who was robbed of her possessions in the middle of the night by these two individuals, for relatively little financial gain. I would like to thank Joys family who have been extremely supportive of Suffolk Constabulary and patient throughout this investigation in what has been an incredibly difficult couple of years for them. The family of Mrs Middleditch said, in a statement issued by police, that she was worth more than to be a victim of cruel thoughtless criminals. Joy was a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister to several siblings, an aunt and a close friend to many, they said. The two boys were bailed to return to Great Yarmouth Youth Court on 9 May for sentencing. The US administrations antipathy towards the EU is misplaced, the Irish premier has said. Micheal Martin acknowledged there was undoubtedly an issue in respect of the administrations negative opinion of the bloc. Mr Martin made the comments as he urged the EU and US to find a sensible landing zone to resolve the dispute over tariffs. Ireland falls under the sweeping 20% tariff imposed on most EU exports to the US which was announced by President Donald Trump on Wednesday and will come into effect in the coming days. Mr Martin said that many of the big US pharma and technology companies have done well out of the European market, which he said has been forgotten by the US administration. Speaking to reporters on Friday in Dublin, he said: There is an issue there, without doubt. Within the US administration there is an antipathy thats not disguised towards the European Union. Misplaced, in my view, because if you take the European Union as a bloc, the trading relationship between it and the US is the biggest in the world. It has helped raise prosperity. Many of the big US pharma and technology companies have done well out of the European market. I mean, that seems to be forgotten by the US administration, and has done very well. Mr Martin also said that Mr Trumps criticism of an imbalance between the US and the EU only focused on the movement of goods and ignored the services industry. Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, Jack Chambers, speaks to the media at Government Buildings in Dublin (Brian Lawless/PA) President Trump and the administration have very carefully just put services to one side, he added. But services is the growth engine of modern economies, and the US enjoys a much, much better relationship on the services side with Europe, and indeed with Ireland, than it does on the goods side. But that gets ignored. Urging both the EU and US to resolve its dispute over tariffs, Mr Martin said it was important that the European bloc adopts a strategic approach to the issue of retaliatory tariffs on products imported from the US. He said this was to avoid further tariff hikes by the US administration on certain sectors where Ireland has a strong presence in the US market, such as spirits. Weve engaged in significant advocacy in respect of making sure that the response is strategic, Mr Martin said outside Government Buildings in the Irish capital. He said that Ireland and other EU countries do not want to invite more damage. Taoiseach Micheal Martin arriving ahead of the Labour Employer Economic Forum at Government Buildings in Dublin (Brian Lawless/PA) But then the more broader picture, I mean, other countries have been hit very hard in terms of the automotive industry, he added. Obviously the (European) Commission and the President of the Commission (Ursula von der Leyen) has a difficult task in balancing the competing interests and the priorities of different member states. But, more importantly, I think the European Union will be doing this, I surmise, on a phased basis. One, (will be) negotiation. The European Union didnt want any tariffs. The European Union will engage with the United States administration to negotiate a sensible landing zone here and resolution of this, because currently this will do a lot of damage to the world economy, to the American economy, to tax on people, to tax on businesses, and overall, it will damage investment. He also highlighted the need to re-pivot Irelands economic strategy to put more focus on developing and supporting indigenous companies. Mr Martin rejected the suggestion that Ireland has a dependency on tax take from US multinational companies operating Irish bases, but he acknowledged that the old world order based on a free trade model was changing and protectionism is coming back. US President Donald Trump speaks during an event to announce new tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House, Washington DC (Mark Schiefelbein/AP photo) Irish deputy premier Simon Harris said that other trade opportunities with countries such as India and the ratification of the EU-Canada Comprehensive Trade Agreement will not make up for the impact of the tariff dispute. Speaking after a meeting of the Governments Trade Forum at Government Buildings on Friday, Mr Harris said that establishing a presence in a new market takes time. The forum was convened following Mr Trumps announcement on tariffs earlier this week. Senior government ministers held a meeting with business groups on Friday to assess how Ireland can respond to the US tariffs. Asked if these other trade deals would alleviate the hit on the Irish economy, Mr Harris said: No, it wouldnt certainly not in the short term. Obviously, establishing a presence in new markets takes time, and negotiating agreements takes time. Its a sensible thing to do and perhaps over time it would but the scale of the economic relationship between not just Ireland and the US, the US and the EU, is so huge that it cant be dismissed. It cant be dismissed by the US either, it doesnt matter who the president is or what their political philosophy is. If you have a trading relationship in goods and services worth about 1.6 trillion euro a year between the EU and the US, thats massive. And its the largest trading relationship that exists. Mr Harris also questioned how Mr Trump will square the circle of introducing tariffs after pledging to reduce the cost of living during his election campaign. Asked how much pain he expected US taxpayers to tolerate before the administration changes tack, Mr Harris said: The jury is out in relation to that question, as to what point is the tipping point in terms of American political opinion and public opinion? But what is certainly playing out already is the fact that if you start putting tariffs on lots of things, that pushes up consumer goods and when you run in an election and you promise people youre going to reduce the cost of living, Im not sure how you square that circle. Thats for President Trump and his administration to work through. But weve seen estimates that theres going to be thousands of euro in additional costs put on the average American household as a result of that. So far, weve heard President Trump say this is kind of temporary pain for longer-term gain. We dont believe that to be the case. Ive yet to hear economic advice or opinion that vindicates that, but we watch that. But certainly I think, it does give further weight to the EU strategy and the Irish strategy of step by step, measured, calm approach to this, because theres so much happening at such pace, and how all that plays out is a very fluid situation. Earlier on Friday, Irelands Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers said excessive retaliatory measures to US tariffs are a concern. He said that if the US is not willing to come to the negotiating table, that countermeasures will be brought in by the EU. We have reflected our own position in the context of countermeasures and Europe is engaging with all countries and building a collective response. I think the calm, measured strategic response from President Von Der Leyen is welcome, Mr Chambers added. We want to move this to a space in negotiation. Excessive additional retaliatory measures that make this worse are a concern for Ireland. But we know if the US isnt willing to come to the table and they arent willing to negotiate that some countermeasures are going to be required from the European Union. But we are reflecting our position as are many other countries. Four people were killed and 35 injured by Russian airstrikes on Kharkiv, Ukraine, on Thursday night, officials said on Friday. Photograph: Titov Yevhen/Abaca/Rex/Shutterstock The US will know within weeks whether Russia is serious about pursuing peace with Ukraine, the secretary of state has said, warning that Donald Trump was not going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations with Moscow. Were testing to see if the Russians are interested in peace, Marco Rubio told journalists in Brussels after talks with Nato allies. Their actions not their words, their actions will determine whether theyre serious or not, and we intend to find that out sooner rather than later. He added: The Russians and [Vladimir] Putin will have to make a decision about whether theyre serious about peace or not. If its a delay tactic, [Trump]s not interested in that. We will know soon enough, in a matter of weeks, not months, whether Russia is serious about peace or not. Rubio also appeared to strike a more sympathetic tone towards Kyiv, noting that the Ukrainians have shown a willingness to enter, for example, into a complete ceasefire. US officials appear to be growing increasingly impatient with the lack of progress in the ongoing peace negotiations. While Trump continues to publicly suggest that Putin wants to end the war, there is growing recognition within the US administration that the Kremlin is unlikely to back down from its maximalist demands before it commits to peace conditions that would effectively dismantle Ukraine as an independent, functioning state and pull it firmly into Russias sphere of influence. On Friday a Russian missile attack killed at least 18 people, including nine children, in a residential area of the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, local officials said. The attack on the hometown of Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian president, damaged residential blocks and sparked fires, Serhiy Lysak, the regions governor, wrote on the Telegram messaging app. At least 50 people were wounded, the emergency services said, adding that the figure was growing. More than 30 people, including a three-month-old baby, were in hospital, Lysak said. Zelenskyy responded by calling on the west to exert greater pressure on Moscow. The whole world sees it, he wrote on Telegram. Each missile, every attack drone proves that Russia seeks only war. Russia said it had targeted a gathering of servicemen but Ukraine accused Moscow of again spreading false information. The missile struck a residential area with a playground, the militarys general staff said in a statement on Telegram. Through this latest violation of the norms of international human rights, the insidious enemy shows that it is in no way seeking peace but rather intends to continue its invasion and war to destroy Ukraine and all Ukrainians. Russia has previously rejected a US proposal for a full and immediate 30-day ceasefire, to which Ukraine had agreed. Meanwhile, neither side appears to be adhering to an earlier agreement to temporarily halt strikes on energy infrastructure during that period. European allies have been urging Washington to take a tougher stance on Moscow and push for a serious commitment to a ceasefire, with some suggesting that a clear deadline should be set. Moscow owes an answer to the United States, which had worked very hard to come up with a mediation effort and a ceasefire proposal, the French foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, said in Brussels, standing alongside the British foreign minister, David Lammy. [Putin] could accept a ceasefire now, he continues to bombard Ukraine, its civilian population, its energy supplies, said Lammy. We see you, Vladimir Putin, we know what you are doing. There was similar rhetoric among other European allies of Ukraine, with the German foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock, dismissing Putins talk of negotiations as nothing but empty promises. She accused the Russian leader of playing for time by raising ever-new demands. The Kremlin this week sent an envoy to Washington, marking the first time since the start of Russias full-scale invasion that a senior Russian official had travelled to the US for talks with American counterparts. Kirill Dmitriev met Steve Witkoff, Trumps senior adviser on Russia negotiations, as well as Rubio at the White House on Wednesday. Dmitriev described the meetings as evidence of a positive dynamic between the two countries and claimed progress had been made towards peace in Ukraine. Rubio, the USs top diplomat, took a more cautious stance, saying he hoped Dmitriev would deliver a clear message to Moscow. Hell take some messages back, and the message is the United States needs to know whether youre serious or not about peace, he said. Trump has previously suggested he would impose a 25% or even 50% tariff on countries buying Russian oil if he concluded that Putin was obstructing peace talks. An anti-abortion campaigner at the centre of a free speech controversy involving the US government has been found guilty of breaching a buffer zone outside a Bournemouth abortion clinic. Livia Tossici-Bolt was convicted at Poole Magistrates Court of two charges of breaching the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) on two days in March 2023. The case involved the 64-year-old from Bournemouth holding a sign saying Here to talk, if you want. Dr Livia Tossici-Bolt (right) is joined by Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, a supporter from March for Life UK, as she arrives at Poole Magistrates Court (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Her case was highlighted by the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, & Labour (DRL), a bureau within the US Department of State, which posted a statement on X saying: We are monitoring her case. It is important that the UK respect and protect freedom of expression. District Judge Orla Austin told the court of the defendant: She lacks insight that her presence could have a detrimental effect on the women attending the clinic, their associates, staff and members of the public. She added: I accept her beliefs were truly held beliefs. Although its accepted this defendant held pro-life views, its important to note this case is not about the rights and wrongs about abortion but about whether the defendant was in breach of the PSPO (Public Spaces Protection Order). Rosalind Comyn, defending, said: The council hasnt produced any evidence that Ms Tossici-Bolt was in fact either observed by any service user or any other forms of harm were caused by her behaviour. My point is not that breaches can never cause harm, rather that there is no evidence that Ms Tossici-Bolts conduct did in this case. She added the defendant had no previous convictions. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council welcomed Tossici-Bolts conviction, stating that the buffer zone enacted in 2022 was there so patients and staff could safely access the clinic without fear of intimidation. A spokesperson added: We will continue to monitor any alleged breaches of this PSPO and will take appropriate action when necessary. Tossici-Bolt, a retired medical scientist, previously said she was grateful to the US State Department for taking note of my case. Great Britain is supposed to be a free country, yet Ive been dragged through court merely for offering consensual conversation, she said. Peaceful expression is a fundamental right no-one should be criminalised for harmless offers to converse. She added: It is tragic to see that the increase of censorship in this country has made the US feel it has to remind us of our shared values and basic civil liberties. The Telegraph previously quoted a source familiar with trade negotiations between the UK and US as saying that there should be no free trade without free speech. However, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said that free speech had not been part of tariff negotiations with the US. The British Pregnancy Advisory Service (Bpas) said the case was never about global politics, but was instead about women being able to access legal healthcare free from harassment. Bpass chief executive Heidi Stewart said: Bpas welcomes todays verdict which will protect women and the staff who provide abortion care. The clinic in Bournemouth has been subjected to decades of anti-abortion protests which resulted in more than 500 reports of harassment before this local safe access zone was brought into force. This case was never about global politics but about the simple ability of women to access legal healthcare free from harassment. Pam Bondi and MS-13 members' faces on a board Three alleged MS-13 gangbangers have been charged in the decade-old killing of a rival gang member in Florida who was stabbed roughly 100 times and then shot, US Attorney General Pam Bondi said Friday. The suspects were slapped with federal charges last month for allegedly participating in the slaying of 22-year-old Gerson Vilelio Vasquez-Portillo in Palm Beach back in 2015, according to authorities. The recent arrests were part of a multi-agency operation that resulted in a total of nine alleged MS-13 gang members being nabbed in connection with four murders in the Sunshine State in 2014 and 2015. Bondi dropped news of the arrests as she sought to highlight the Trump administrations vow to crackdown on members of the violent, blood-thirsty gang. These gangs are organized. They are terrorists. And look at these guys, they thought they got away with it for almost a decade but they did not, Attorney General Pam Bondi said about the federal murder charges. AFP via Getty Images More arrests are coming, Bondi said alongside law enforcement officials in Fort Lauderdale. If you are a gang member living in this country, Id self-deport right now because were coming after you. Jose Chango Ezequiel Gamez-Maravilla, Wilber Blue Rosendo Navarro-Escobar and Hugo Power Adiel Bermudez-Martinez were the latest to be slapped with charges over the savage stabbing and shooting of the rival gangbanger in 2015. The three other violent killings in South Florida were also carried out using knives or machetes, authorities said. The cases were only reopened in 2020 after initially going cold. The arrests were part of a multi-agency operation named Operation Sombra De La Bestia, or Operation Shadow of the Beast. AFP via Getty Images Wilson Tirado-Silva, Miguel Cabrera Granados and Melvin David Cruz-Ortiz were charged in connection with the 2014 murder of 18-year-old Joel Antonio Canizales-Lara, who was lured to a field and then knifed to death after falsely claiming he was part of the gang, authorities said. The victims remains, which were dumped in a makeshift grave in the aftermath, were only recovered in 2021. Meanwhile, Omar DeJesus Gutierrez, 18, was shot dead after he flashed a rival gang sign in 2015. Alleged MS-13 leader Andy Tovar ordered Tirado-Silva to carry out that killing, authorities said. And Tirado-Silva and Cruz-Ortiz were both also nabbed in the 2015 murder of Chrislet Ondina, 25, who was killed as part of a gang initiation for one of the perps. Nine MS-13 terrorists have been taken off our streets and four cold murder cases have been solved thanks to the great investigative work of the FBI and our law enforcement partners, Bondi said. Let this be a lesson: no matter how long it takes, we will never give up in our pursuit of justice. Family members of homicide victims listen as Bondi holds a press conference about MS-13 gang activity at the Broward County Sheriffs Office Research, Development and Training Center in Fort Lauderdale. AFP via Getty Images Over the past decade, the Justice Department has intensified its focus on MS-13, which originated as a neighborhood street gang in Los Angeles but grew into a transnational gang based in El Salvador. The gang now has strongholds in Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico, as well as thousands of members across the US. These vicious and callous acts by MS-13 not only shattered lives but also undermined the safety and security of South Florida communities, said Hayden P. OByrne, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. Through my offices unwavering partnership with other federal, state, and local law enforcement, we are sending a clear message to those who inflict violence, feed drug addiction, or cause other harm to the people of our district: We will find you; we will prosecute you; and we will apply the full force of American justice. With Post wires Ethan Miller/Getty; Jasin Boland/Warner Bros/Village Roadshow/Kobal/Shutterstock Ana de Armas on April 3, 2025; Keanu Reeves in The Matrix Ana de Armas dedicated her CinemaCon award to her Ballerina costar Keanu Reeves During her speech, the actress admitted that she once accidentally told Reeves that she had never seen his iconic 1999 movie The Matrix "I'm just so happy that life brought us back to gather in such meaningful ways," de Armas said of her collaboration with Reeves in Ballerina Ana de Armas dedicated her CinemaCon 2025 award to her Ballerina costar Keanu Reeves and she shared an embarrassing story about the first time they met. On Thursday, April 3, de Armas, 36, accepted CinemaCon's Action Star of the Year award for her work in her upcoming movie From the World of John Wick: Ballerina, in theaters June 6. In her acceptance speech, de Armas called out her costar Reeves, 60, and admitted that she accidentally told him she had never seen The Matrix when they first met while working on the 2015 movie Knock Knock. "We were sitting across from each other on the table, and I was really nervous as you are when youre in front of Keanu Reeves," de Armas recalled of that meeting, which took place in Santiago, Chile. "I couldnt talk to him much because I was so self-conscious about my English and I was really struggling and really trying hard to follow the conversation. They were talking about his career, they were talking about The Matrix. And he looked up at me and asked me if I had seen it and I was like, 'The Matrix? No.' " "Everyone at the table was shocked. Someone came to me and told me in Spanish, 'You haven't seen La Matrix?' And I was like 'Oh, La Matrix? Yeah, I have seen that one,' " she added. "That will never not be embarrassing." Related: Keanu Reeves Says His 'Heart' Wants a John Wick 5 but 'I Don't Know If My Knees Can Do It' Gabe Ginsberg/WireImage Ana de Armas on April 3, 2025 The actress recalled that during that meeting, Reeves spoke at length about his time making the first John Wick movie, which released in 2014, and demonstrated lengthy fight choreography from that movie which clearly left an impression. 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. "Here I am 10 years later, receiving the action star of the year award for Ballerina, but there wouldn't be Ballerina without John Wick, and for sure there wouldn't be John Wick without Keanu Reeves," de Armas said in her speech. "He has through this character and what he's done with this franchise given me the opportunity to be a part of this world, and I am so honored and grateful, so I want to dedicate this to him. I'm just so happy that life brought us back to gather in such meaningful ways, especially after that first meeting. Related: Tom Cruise and Ana de Armas Are Spending Time Together. What's Really Going On? (Exclusive Source) Larry Busacca/Getty Keanu Reeves and Ana de Armas on Jan. 24, 2015 Ballerina, in which de Armas will play deadly assassin Eve Macarro, is a spinoff that continues the cinematic universe Reeves first established in 2014's John Wick. The upcoming installment from director Len Wiseman and writer Shay Hatten costars Gabriel Byrne, Catalina Sandino Moreno, and Norman Reedus; it also brings Reeves, Anjelica Huston, Ian McShane and the late Lance Reddick back to the series following 2023's John Wick: Chapter 4. From the World of John Wick: Ballerina is in theaters June 6. Read the original article on People Thomas Hart Shelby/Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas The interior of Peacock Alley at the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas. Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas has introduced two new bars as part of a property-wide renovation. Peacock Alley, the brands signature bar, serves afternoon tea and features a sundial-inspired clock, a feather-shaped bar, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The new Hard Shake is a modern cocktail lounge with a robust mixology program, light bites, and panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip. In 2023, the hotel also renovated its 392 guest rooms and relocated the lobby and front desk to the ground floor. Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, named the best hotel in Sin City in 2024 by Travel + Leisure readers, continues its multimillion-dollar transformation with the recent unveiling of two new bars on the resort's renovated 23rd floor. The addition of Peacock Alley, the brands signature bar and meeting place, and the debut of Hard Shake, a lounge experience where craft cocktails are enjoyed with long views and direct sightlines down the Las Vegas Strip, mark the completion of another major phase of a property-wide redesign. These are two distinct experiences with a nod to Hollywood glamour, Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas hotel manager Robert Jenny told T+L of the Rockwell Group-designed spaces. Every Waldorf [Astoria hotel] has their own interpretation for the clock, Jenny explained, referring to the signature timepiece in every Peacock Alley bar. We took inspiration from our location. We have 320 days of sun, so naturally, a sundial was our inspiration. Its a little sense of place that takes up the entire wall when you come off the elevator." Thomas Hart Shelby/Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas Guests can enjoy Afternoon Tea, cocktails and small bites at Peacock Alley. The feather-shaped bar is crowned by a glass canopy, while a nearby custom clear-glass light fixture hangs delicately over the lounge among the muted blue couches and individual seats. Here, youll find guests enjoying afternoon teaa collection of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries with the resorts very own special blended teas, such as The Showgirl, a passionfruit and vanilla black tea, and The Meadows, a crisp, refreshing green tea infused with lemongrass. Theres a certain elegance surrounding afternoon tea, Jenny said. Its been so popular that we expanded the seating capacity so we could accommodate the growing demand. Its such a serene, beautiful space above the fray of the Strip. Come nightfall, attention turns to the new Hard Shake cocktail lounge, accented by art decor motifs. Tucked into the former SkyBar space, the glitzy, modern lounge is all about the cocktail. The name itself, Hard Shake, comes from a stylized three-point shaking technique pioneered by Japanese bartender Kazuo Uyeda in which the mixologist rolls and folds the ingredients in the shaker with precise movements. Signature cocktails like The Katana, crafted with Hibiki Harmony whisky with house-spiced Drambuie and a dash of pecan bitters, can be paired with light bites and enjoyed with views of the neon-lit Strip. Everything weve done, Jenny explains, all the small touches, whether its the cocktails, tea selections, or the design itself, is meant to draw people together and give them a space to gather and exchange stories. The hotel's renovation started in 2023 with a floor-to-ceiling redesign of all 392 guest rooms, including 57 suites, upgrades to the hotels meeting and event space, and the relocation of the lobby and front desk to the ground floor. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure Courtesy of Ocean Morisset The Costa Rica travel group taking a cooking class together. Kim Haas discovered her lifelong passion for travel at just six years old. During her first trip outside the U.S. to Acapulco, Mexico, a stranger approached her and her grandmother in the hotel lobby and asked Haas if she'd like to learn to count to 20 in Spanish. Enthusiastically accepting, Haas told Travel + Leisure, From that moment on, I was hooked on Spanish, travel, language, and culture." Her passion for the history and culture of Latin American communities led her to create and star in her own PBS television show, Afro-Latino Travels With Kim Haas. Now, shes curating group travel experiences through her namesake company. Courtesy of Kim Haas A group photo of the Kim Haas Costa Rica Trip. For Haas, tours are a natural progression from her television series. "I wanted to give people firsthand opportunities to experience Afro-descendant cultureto connect with communities, hear their stories, and witness their resilience and creativity in ways that go beyond the television series," she said. Her inaugural group trip took place in July 2022 in Costa Rica, the idea stemming from a television viewer who emailed her about doing an Afro-Costa Rica tour after the Costa Rica shows aired. Haas customized a tour for this group, combining opportunities to meet with Afro-Costa Ricans featured in the series, including writer Quince Duncan and cacao farmer Daniel South, and to participate in activities like cooking classes, ziplining, and white water rafting. Juancho Torres/Getty Images People are seen in their daily life in San Basilio de Palenque, Bolivar, Colombia. In July 2025, Haas will offer travelers an extraordinary journey through Colombia, providing insights into the resilience, history, and contributions of Afro-descendant communities. The tour begins in Cali, the salsa capital of the world, where travelers will visit several historical and cultural sights, including the Salsa Museum and the Afro-Colombian community in San Cipriano, a small eco-friendly village in the Colombian rainforest. The tour concludes in Cartagena, a vivacious and historically rich city that was once a major port during the transatlantic slave trade. In Cartagena, travelers will explore the walled city and the UNESCO-recognized San Basilio de Palenque, the first free Black town in the Americas. According to Haas, the accomplishments and stories of Afro-Latinos are rarely shared and discussed in mainstream media and society, particularly women. There are so many remarkable Afro-Colombian women deserving of recognition, she said. Haas cited Edna Valencia, the first Afro-Colombian journalist to wear an afro hairstyle on Colombian television, as a noteworthy example. Valencia served as a diversity consultant for Disneys Academy Award-winning film Encanto, ensuring the accurate portrayal of Afro-Colombian characters in the movie, including details like their skin color, hair, and clothing. Valencia will be among the featured guests in Haas's Colombia tour, which runs from July 16-24. "I wanted to give people firsthand opportunities to experience Afro-descendant cultureto connect with communities, hear their stories, and witness their resilience and creativity in ways that go beyond the television series." Kim Haas Haas said travelers dont need to be of African descent to join the tours. The only requirement is an open mind and a genuine interest in breaking down barriers and stereotypes. Next year, the company will offer tours in three additional countries: Brazil, Guatemala, and Uruguay. To learn more about the Colombia tour, visit the travelswithkimhaas.com. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure Traveling parents Lindsey Granger and Kolyn Boyd have tips for long-haul flights with babies and toddlers. "World of Travel"/ Gilded Focus Lindsey Granger and Kolyn Boyd travel with their toddler for a docuseries. Their toddler has spent over 80 hours on long-haul flights since she was a baby. They shared their tips for a successful long-haul journey with a young kid. Denver-based journalist Lindsey Granger and producer and director Kolyn Boyd have spent over 80 hours on long-haul flights with their 3-year-old, Kynsley, in tow. They've been traveling with Kynsley since she was an infant. The globetrotting tot has flown over 167,000 miles to 12 states and seven countries. Granger and Boyd document their family travels on the international docuseries "World of Travel" on Samsung TV Plus, which was recently renewed for a second season. Over the past three years of trips with Kynsley, Granger and Boyd have learned from their travel mistakes from overpacking to missing flights. They told Business Insider their biggest tips for a successful long journey with a young kid. Take your child on long-haul journeys as an infant it will make flights easier as they get older. Granger and Boyd have traveled with their toddler since she was an infant. "World of Travel"/ Gilded Focus One of Boyd's top tips for flying with kids is to start them young. "You just have to jump out there and get your baby used to doing these flights," Boyd said. He added that flying with an infant is challenging because they can't express their needs not to mention frequent diaper changes. "With a toddler, it's a little easier because she's able to go to the bathroom, notice the TV, and play with toys," Boyd said. Since she flew so much as a baby, Boyd said that as a toddler, Kynsley doesn't seem anxious when the plane takes off. Instead, she finds it fun to go faster and faster until they're soaring through the sky. Granger said that while she and Boyd may get nervous during storms and turbulence in the air, Kynsley seems unbothered. "She's really the cool, calm, collected person," Boyd added. "Her being calm actually helps me because I think, 'I can't be scared if my baby's not scared.'" Travel with family and friends to lighten the load. Granger, Boyd, and Kynsley on a group trip. "World of Travel"/ Gilded Focus Granger and Boyd advise traveling with a group who can help with parenting duties. "I always recommend traveling with family or a friend who's willing to watch the baby and let the adult be an adult," Granger said. "We had a bunch of family and friends with us on the same flight to South Africa." Granger added that having so many loved ones around on their 15-and-a-half-hour flight to South Africa seemed to make 3-year-old Kynsley feel more comfortable on the plane, too. Do your research to ensure you don't overpack large items like strollers or car seats. Granger and Boyd took Kynsley to international destinations as a baby and a toddler. "World of Travel"/ Gilded Focus "One of the big lessons we learned as a group is how to condense and pack appropriately for the trip," Boyd said, adding that they'd made the mistake of packing the wrong stroller and unnecessary car seats. Granger advised that before checking your car seat, find out if there will be one at your destination, especially if you're renting a car. When deciding on strollers to pack, do your research to ensure they'll suit the destination. For example, she said bringing a bulky industrial stroller on their trip to Greece was a bad idea because they had to take about 10 ferries. "Look at the landscape. Is there cobblestone everywhere? Then you can't bring your cheap umbrella stroller because your wheels will break like ours have," Granger added. Shift your baby's sleep schedule the night before so they're more likely to rest on the plane. Kynsley sleeps on a long-haul flight. "World of Travel"/ Gilded Focus When the family took a red-eye flight to Greece in 2023, Boyd remembers everyone around him sleeping except for 2-year-old Kynsley. "She stayed up the entire night until it was time to land, and I had my opportunity to get one hour of sleep," Boyd said. "She was super excited, so she wanted to play the entire time." Granger said this often happens when she doesn't adjust Kynsley's sleep schedule the night before a flight. "Let's say she went to bed at 7 p.m. and our flight is at 5 a.m. she had her 8-hour rest already, so she's wide awake and ready for the day," Granger told BI. "But if she went to bed a bit later, waking her up around 5 a.m. would throw off her sleep, so she might go right back to sleep and give me a peaceful flight." Allot extra time for TSA screenings to avoid missing flights especially if you're bringing milk. Make sure to plan for TSA stops. Robert Alexander/Getty Images "I used to pump a lot and then bring a lot of milk through TSA, which parents should know you are allowed to do," Granger said. "It's just a rigorous process where they scan every bottle." When traveling with milk through TSA, Granger recommends arriving at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours before international flights. If you're traveling with a toddler and no milk, she suggests arriving one and a half to two hours before domestic flights and two and a half to three hours before international flights. "If your child is mobile or prone to meltdowns, give yourself extra buffer time for security and bathroom stops," she added. Don't stress over missed flights. Kynsley uses a GoPro in an airport after a missed flight. "World of Travel"/ Gilded Focus When I asked Granger and Boyd if they'd ever missed a flight with Kynsley, they chuckled. From long TSA stops to ill-timed diaper changes, they said they've missed multiple flights some by two minutes and others by a full hour. "At this point, we just laugh it off and get something to eat," Granger said. "We travel a lot, so we know there will be mishaps. We just figure it out day by day." Maintaining a light mood after a missed flight has led to some special memories for the family of three. "I'll never forget when we missed a flight to New York before we went to Greece," Boyd said. As they waited for the next flight, 2-year-old Kynsley was bored, so Boyd gave her his GoPro for the first time. "I wanted to see what she would do, and she started taking pictures and filming our experience in the airport," Boyd said. "And now she really loves cameras because of that moment. So it was actually a really good day." Respect the people seated around you on the flight. Don't let your child kick the passenger's seat in front of you, Granger and Boyd advise. LENblR/Getty Images In Granger's experience, other passengers are typically courteous and understanding of a sightly bothersome young child but there's a limit. "It is a tough time traveling with your kid, but you have to be a good neighbor still you can't let your kid stick their arm through the middle of the seat, throw stuff, kick the seat," Boyd said. "You have to be a responsible parent and make other people comfortable as well." Granger and Boyd's strategy is to find something else she'd be interested in doing, like walking the aisles or getting a snack box as a reward for stopping. When babies cry and toddlers have tantrums, keep calm. Kynsley on a long-distance international flight. Courtesy of World of Travel Boyd said that when Kynsley cries or throws a fit on an airplane, he goes through the list of things she may want or need, from food and cuddles to walking the aisles and playing with toys. "If your child is throwing a tantrum, just be calm because no matter what, it just is what it is," Granger said. "So just relax, engage with them, and see what they need or want or how you can play with them so that maybe you could stop the tantrum." Let kids be kids, and ease restrictions you may have at home. Kynsley's parents relax rules when they're in the air. "World of Travel"/ Gilded Focus As a toddler, Granger and Boyd give Kynsley more freedom on flights, from what she wears to how she passes the time. Throughout long-haul flights, they ask Kynsley what she wants to do whether it be watching a movie, playing with toys, having a snack, walking the aisles, or even using the iPad, a device they don't allow at home. "It's really about making her comfortable, especially because, at the end of the day, she didn't ask to travel," Granger said. "She's still a toddler, but she's autonomous, and we want her to feel excited about flying rather than 'Do what I say' for 10 to 15 hours." Granger said she also allows Kynsley to pack her own bag "full of nonsense" for flights now that she's a toddler. "Kynsley brought her Halloween costume to South Africa in November," she said. "She actually wore it and felt like the trip was fulfilling to her even just the journey." Read the original article on Business Insider Judge Allison Riggs; Judge Jefferson Griffin. A three-judge panel of the North Carolina Court of Appeals ruled Friday that more than 65,000 votes cast in the contested race for the state Supreme Court in 2024 must be recounted and verified a win for the Republican candidate in the razor-thin, disputed contest and a decision that could potentially tip the election results in his favor. In the ruling, the Republican majority involved in the decision ordered that a group of more than 65,000 voters, whose eligibility was challenged by Republican Supreme Court candidate Jefferson Griffin and his lawyers, now have 15 business days to provide state elections officials with the necessary proof of identity that would verify their votes. The court ruled that any voters who dont respond will not have their votes counted in the race between Griffin and Democrat Allison Riggs, which is still caught in legal battling five months after Election Day. The arduous task of verifying those voter identities will fall on the North Carolina State Board of Elections. And the decision sets up an appeal to North Carolina's highest court, the state Supreme Court the body that the winner of this election will join. The inclusion of even one unlawful ballot in a vote total dilutes the lawful votes and effectively disenfranchises lawful voters, the Republican majority on the three-person panel wrote in its opinion. Post-election protests protect against this risk of vote dilution by enabling candidates and voters to rigorously investigate the election process, identify and challenge unlawful ballots, and ensure those ballots are not counted. The one Democratic judge involved in the state Court of Appeals' decision said the majoritys ruling amounted to changing the rules by which these lawful voters took part in our electoral process after the election to discard their otherwise valid votes and called the majority's ruling an an attempt to alter the outcome of only one race among many on the ballot is directly counter to law, equity, and the Constitution. The latest decision overturns a ruling by a lower state court from February that had effectively dismissed the case. In a statement, Riggs said her campaign would appeal the ruling. Doing so is all but certain to put the case before the North Carolina state Supreme Court the same bench whose seat is at stake in the case. Republicans currently have a 5-2 majority on that court. We will be promptly appealing this deeply misinformed decision that threatens to disenfranchise more than 65,000 lawful voters and sets a dangerous precedent, allowing disappointed politicians to thwart the will of the people, Riggs said in an emailed statement. North Carolinians elected me to keep my seat and I swore an oath to the constitution and the rule of law so I will continue to stand up for the rights of voters in this state and stand in the way of those who would take power from the people. In a statement, Griffin spokesperson Paul Shumaker said, "We are pleased" with the ruling, calling it "a win for the citizens of North Carolina." Griffin himself sits on the Court of Appeals but recused himself from the case. Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin said in a statement that "this partisan decision has no legal basis and is an all-out assault on our democracy and the basic premise that voters decide who wins their elections." The decision in the battleground state race is the latest chapter in a running saga since the November election. Griffin and state Republicans have repeatedly claimed that the 65,000 votes in question should be invalidated because they were fraudulently cast by ineligible voters. Litigation over whether those votes should be counted has been stuck in both federal and state courts since the election. A series of legal developments and rulings earlier this year put the decision in the hands of the state court system, though Riggs' campaign hasn't ruled out legal action that would seek to put the matter back before federal judges. Riggs, the incumbent Democratic state Supreme Court judge who was appointed to the bench in 2023, was narrowly ahead of Griffin after Election Day, triggering a series of recounts. A full machine recount, as well as a partial hand recount of the race, both showed Riggs leading Griffin by 734 votes. More than 5.5 million ballots were cast in the race, which the NBC News Decision Desk did not call, amid the recounts and legal cases. Even small changes to the vote count in the race could affect the outcome. Following the original ballot count after Election Day, Griffins team filed hundreds of legal challenges across all of North Carolinas 100 counties, alleging that more than 65,000 people voted illegally. Many of the allegations centered around people who Griffins lawyers claimed didnt have a drivers license number or Social Security number on file in their voter registration records. Their protests were also related to overseas voters who havent lived in North Carolina and overseas voters who failed to provide photo identification with their ballots. In its ruling Friday, the Republican majority on the Court of Appeals instructed the State Board of Elections to immediately direct the county boards to expeditiously identify the military and overseas voters challenged under this protest and notify said voters of their failure to abide by the photo ID requirement or equivalent, to allow said voters fifteen (15) business days from the mailing of the notice to cure the defect, and upon verification, to include in the count of this challenged election the votes of those voters who timely cure their failure to abide by the photo ID requirement and to omit from the final count the votes of those voters who fail to timely cure their deficiencies." In their ruling, the two Republicans said that overseas voters who have never lived in North Carolina should not have their ballots counted. Prosecutors this week charged a man posing as a doctor with assault and unauthorized practice of a profession after a 31-year-old woman went into cardiac arrest during a botched cosmetic surgery at his New York City home, leaving her brain-dead. Felipe Hoyos Foronda was arrested at 11:30 p.m. on March 28 in connection to the medical procedure after being apprehended at JFK International Airport while allegedly attempting to flee the country, according to information from the New York Police Department and court papers obtained by USA TODAY. Foronda, 38, was arraigned on the felony charges Sunday, a Queens County Criminal Court spokesperson told USA TODAY Friday morning. The woman, whose name was redacted from a criminal complaint filed Saturday, reportedly visited Forondas home on 35th Street in Queens between 1 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. on March 28 to have butt lift implants removed. There, a police detective wrote in the complaint, Foronda administered lidocaine to the woman through a syringe, causing her to go into cardiac arrest. The woman was taken to a hospital where, the detective wrote, a doctor told police she was intubated, had no brain activity, and was "not likely to survive. Her condition was not immediately known on Friday. Doctor sues: John Oliver hit with defamation suit over 'Last Week Tonight' episode Fake doctor who police say botched procedure due in court Originally from Colombia, Foronda was booked into jail where, on Friday, online New York Department of Corrections records showed he remained held without bond. He is slated to appear in Queens County Criminal Court on April 28. A court spokesperson said a judge appointed a public defender to represent him. USA TODAY has reached out to that attorney. NYT: Man 'planned to take a connecting flight to Colombia' According to an internal police report obtained by The New York Times, the woman visited Foronda's home "to have her buttock implants removed." When a friend of the injured woman went to the home to pick her up after the surgery, the outlet reported, she learned the procedure went south and called police. After speaking with Foronda's landlord, arriving officers obtained a license plate from Foronda's vehicle and tracked his car to JFK, the report said. Port Authority police, the outlet wrote, found Foronda waiting to board a flight to Florida, "where he had planned to take a connecting flight to Colombia." Foronda, who posed as a doctor, promoted cosmetic surgery services on social media sites including TikTok. His page, with more than 100 followers, advertises prices for procedures including Botox and more, and also includes videos and photos of people undergoing a slew of procedures. Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fake doctor charged after butt lift procedure leaves her brain dead U.S. President Donald Trump holds up a copy of a 2025 National Trade Estimate Report as he speaks during a Make America Wealth Again trade announcement event in the Rose Garden at the White House on April 2, 2025 in Washington D.C. (Chip SomodevillaGetty Images) A few countries stand out on the White Houses new chart of its so-called reciprocal tariffs. Cambodia, with a new 49% tariff; Vietnam, with 46%; and Thailand, at 36%. Southeast Asiaeven compared to its Asian peerswas particularly hard hit on Liberation Day. Economies in Southeast Asia have largely benefited from the China plus one strategy, an approach to supply chains where major manufacturers began to route some of their supply chains through third countries. Both Western and Chinese companies embraced supply-chain diversification for several reasons: cheaper labor outside China, tariff avoidance, and ensuring resilience amid disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vietnam had a trade surplus of $123.5 billion with the U.S. last year, leading analysts to warn earlier this year that the country was most at risk. Hanoi had tried to win itself a reprieve by preemptively cutting import duties in the lead-up to April 2. On Friday, Trump also said he had a productive call with Vietnams top leader To Lam. According to Trump, Lam offered to cut Vietnamese tariffs on U.S. goods down to zero if the two countries could reach an agreement. Apart from Vietnam, three other countries in the region got hit with high tariffs. Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand, which got hit with tariff rates of 49%, 48%, and 36%, respectively. Other Southeast Asian nations facing significant new tariffs include Indonesia with a 32% tariff rate and Malaysia with a 24% rate. Vietnam, which derives as much as 30% of its GDP from U.S. exports, is likely to be hardest hit. In only a few short years, Vietnam has gone from the primary beneficiary of U.S.-China trade tensions and global supply rerouting in Asia to a major target of U.S. tariffs, HSBC economists Frederic Neumann and Justin Feng wrote in a Thursday note. Fellow bank OCBC now estimates Vietnams GDP will grow by just 5% this year, down from 6.2%, due to the tariffs. (Vietnams leaders had previously hoped the country might grow by as much as 8%.) The Singaporean bank also thinks Thailand will suffer from Trumps tariffs, downgrading its growth forecast to 2%, down from 2.8%. Pressuring China The coming high tariffs on Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia mean manufacturers can no longer leverage those economies, which are geographically close to China, as plus one destinations. China got an additional 34% tariff on Liberation Day, on top of previously announced 20% tariffs. That puts companies, including many leading U.S. brands, in a bind. For example, Gap, Nike, and Levis diversified their supply chains away from China, moving to other Asian economies to leverage lower costs and shield themselves from the U.S.-China trade conflict. Vietnam makes a quarter of Nikes products, including half of all its shoes, according to the sportswear companys annual report. The Southeast Asian country is also Gaps largest supplier, followed by India and Indonesia. Lululemon also sources 40% of its merchandise from Vietnam. In the past few years, both foreign brands and Southeast Asia have benefited from the China plus one strategy. Southeast Asian economies offered lower costs than China, particularly regarding labor, while preserving access to the countrys deep network of suppliers. These countries also attracted investment during the first Trump administration in order to evade earlier tariffs on China. Finally, supply-chain disruptions like the pandemic encouraged companies like Apple to diversify their supply chains, basing operations in Vietnam and India to avoid being wholly reliant on China. But now these brands face an array of bad options: Stay in Southeast Asia and pay the high tariffs? Try to find another jurisdiction with lower tariff rates? Or move manufacturing to the (very expensive) U.S.? This story was originally featured on Fortune.com Intel (INTC) and Taiwan Semiconductor (TSM) have agreed to a joint venture, according to reports. The two chip giants will form a joint venture in the U.S. that will leverage Intels American foundry and Taiwan Semis expertise to produce advanced chips. For its contribution, Taiwan Semi would take a 20 percent stake in the venture and also train Intel employees as part of the tie-up. Intel stock zoomed higher on the news amid a market that was plummeting in response to a new round of tariffs announced by President Donald Trump . But at least one analyst is questioning the rationale for the decision and says that Intel needs a sharp change in direction. No longer just Intel Inside maybe The news about an Intel-Taiwan Semi joint venture caps off weeks of speculation and reported talks between the floundering American chipmaker and rivals such as AMD (AMD) and Broadcom (AVGO) to break up the company or agree on a strategic deal. Those rumors have helped send Intels stock on a roller-coaster ride in 2025, with new rumors every few weeks spiking the stock, only for it to come back down, before a new rumor sends shares up again. Despite some of these favorable moves higher, Intels foundry business is hemorrhaging cash, turning in a $13.4 billion operating loss in 2024. Management has stated that it doesnt expect the unit to become profitable until 2027. Given these results, at least one analyst, Citis Chris Danely, thinks Intel needs to get out of the foundry business. But the company may not go in that direction. At Intel Vision, the companys conference held at the end of March, CEO Lip-Bu Tan outlined a plan to separate non-core assets. But the newly appointed chief exec said that his vision of the future Intel still included the merchant foundry business, using it to produce new chips for both Intel and other semiconductor design firms. Need an advisor? Need expert guidance when it comes to managing your investments or planning for retirement? Bankrates AdvisorMatch can connect you to a CFP professional to help you achieve your financial goals. Danely sees that as a mistake and is skeptical that the joint venture will be a real solution, due to the differences in operational processes and culture between the two companies. Danely has long argued for Intel to get out of the merchant foundry business given its history of losses and Taiwan Semis strong operational expertise, which has seen the company taking market share over time. Given the losses at the foundry unit, Danely thinks Intel would be more profitable if it could simply shed that segment and focus on its core chip manufacturing business. In a CNBC interview in February, Danely stated that a slimmed-down Intel could earn $3 or $4 per share and could become a $50 or $60 stock with that level of earnings. If that happened, he says, I think youre back to the Intel of old. He added: Its not complicated. Its just that this foundry effort is sinking them. A federal judge ordered the Trump administration on Friday to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia back to the United States after he was accidentally sent to a notorious megajail in El Salvador. U.S. District Court in Greenbelt, Maryland, Judge Paula Xinis ruled that the government must return Garcia by April 7 at 11:59 pm. Garcia, a protected legal resident who has been living in Maryland since 2011 and is originally from El Salvador, was sent back to El Salvador on March 15 because of what the Trump administration called an administrative error in court filings Monday. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin repeated the Trump administration's claims that Garcia is an MS-13 gang member in a statement after the ruling. "Whether he is in El Salvador or a detention facility in the U.S., he will be locked up and off Americas streets," she said. At the hearing on Friday, Garcias attorney, Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, shot down previous claims by the Trump administration that his client is a MS-13 member. A man identified by Jennifer Vasquez Sura as her husband, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, is led by guards through the Terrorism Confinement Center in Tecoluca, El Salvador. Garcia filed a lawsuit last week asking that the judge order the government to return him to the United States. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem countered the lawsuit on Monday, arguing that U.S. courts do not have the authority to seek Garcias extradition. At a hearing for the case earlier in the day, a Department of Justice lawyer representing the Trump administration appeared to side with Garcia. I will say for the courts awareness that when this case landed on my desk, the first thing I did was ask my client the same question, the lawyer, Erez Reuveni, said. I have not yet received an answer that I find satisfactory. Reuveni conceded that Garcia should not have been removed" and told U.S. Judge Paula Xinis he did not know why Garcia was ever arrested. Youre not going to like my answer to a lot of this," Reuveni said. "I am also frustrated that I also have no answers for you on a lot of these questions. The absence of evidence speaks for itself," he later added. Reuveni asked Judge Xinis to give the government "one more chance to do this without court superintendence." "Give us 24 hours to get him back, Reuveni said. "That was my recommendation to my client but that hasn't happened" Sandoval-Moshenberg replied: If Mr. Abrego Garcia can be produced in this court on Monday, we are happy to accept that. Given the manner theyve chosen to litigate this case, it doesnt appear theyre taking it seriously. Judge Xinis then called the court into a brief recess. When the hearing restarted, the judge ultimately decided that the government's time had run out. "This case is certainly important to Mr. Abrego Garcia and his family," he said. "I can't wait on giving my order. I will write a formal opinion." Kilmar Abrego Garcia. In recent days, Trump administration officials, including Vice President JD Vance, have repeatedly accused Garcia of being a member of the gang MS-13. Sandoval-Moshenberg has denied the government's claims that he is affiliated with the gang. Instead, Garcia came to the U.S. from El Salvador in 2011 to flee gang violence, Sandoval-Moshenberg said, adding that gang members threatened to kill him in an attempt to extort his parents. His attorney also noted that Garcia does not have a criminal record in the U.S. or El Salvador. "First of all, if they thought he committed a crime, they could arrest him and try to convict him of that crime," Sandoval-Moshenberg told MSNBC on Wednesday. "Second of all, if they thought he was deportable on the basis of his gang membership, they could have brought charges in the immigration court." "They did none of those things. They just stuck him on a plane," he added. On Friday, Xinis chalked up the government's claims that Garcia was a gang member to "just chatter." In a court of law when someone is accused of membership in such a violent and predatory organization, it comes in form of indictment or criminal proceeding so we can assess facts, Xinis said. I haven't seen any of those. Vance described Garcia as not exactly father of the year in an interview with Fox News on Thursday. Sura shot back, telling NBC News on Friday: Hes wrong. My husbands the best father. He cares for our son who is in the high autism spectrum and its tough, but hes able to manage it. Garcia's deportation appears to coincide with the departure of three planes carrying noncitizens to El Salvador on March 15, whom the Trump administration accused of being Venezuelan gang members. Noem visited the prison last week. She posed for a photo-op in front of prison cells packed with the deported men, whose heads were forcibly shaved by authorities and were shirtless. On Friday, Sandoval-Moshenberg used Noem's visit to justify his argument that the government can retrieve Garcia. "Kristi Noem was inside the walls of the prison last week," he said. "Good reason to believe government would be successful if so ordered." Ahead of the hearing, Sura addressed reporters through tears. Kilmar, if you can hear me, I miss you so much, she said. And Im doing the best to fight for you and our children. A man who defrauded people of tens of millions of dollars to fund a jet-setting romantic escape full of stays in five-star hotels was sentenced to 18 years in federal prison, authorities announced Thursday. U.S. District Judge Dora L. Irizarrys sentencing of Francius Marganda in federal court in Brooklyn concludes a saga that saw the Indonesian national travel the world thanks to the wallets of hundreds of people who poured savings into his sham investment schemes, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. Victims were left financially crippled and unable to cover vital costs including cancer treatments and education, prosecutors said. Margandas attempt to evade justice by fleeing halfway across the world to hide in fancy hotels was futile, said John J. Durham, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York. It is my hope that this prosecution will bring some measure of relief to the victims of Margandas fraud, who trusted him with their life savings. The 42-year-old fled the United States in 2021 when investors realized Marganda was scamming them. The $24.5 million he stole funded stays in lavish hotels from France and the Maldives to Nepal and Thailand, according to prosecutors. He was ultimately arrested and extradited from Singapore in 2023. Marganda pleaded guilty last July to securities fraud and was ordered to pay $8.5 million in restitution and forfeit $7.5 million, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. Investigators have linked the fraudster to 237 victims, ranging in age from 24 to 84, and spread across 31 states as well as Washington, D.C., and the countries of Malaysia and his native Indonesia, prosecutors said. Margandas victims believed they were investing in short-term, high-interest programs where they could get as much as 200% return on the money they put in, court filings say. When asked to comment, Margandas lawyer, Florian Miedel, said: Although greatly disappointed in what is an extraordinary sentence for a first time offender, Mr. Marganda will use his time behind bars productively and will endeavor to pay his victims back when he is released. The Ponzi scheme leader worked with at least two other people whom he paid a commission for every investor they attracted as well as dinners and hotel stays, according to court filings. The two, Imanuelly Jaya and Theresia Jaya, pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and are awaiting sentencing, court documents say. Francius Margandas heartless scheme caused irreparable emotional, psychological, and in some cases even physical damage, said Michael Alfonso, acting special agent in charge with Homeland Security, Investigations. Marganda left hardworking families without money they desperately needed for crucial, life-altering expenses . . . No amount of prison time can make up for the irreversible pain Marganda and his co-conspirators have caused. Authorities involved in the investigation spanned the globe, from federal prosecutors in New York City to local police departments in Minnesota and South Carolina, Department of Justice attaches in Manila and Bangkok and police in Singapore. Promises of gold mines: Ex-NFL player gets prison for running Ponzi scheme Fugitive cosmopolitan globetrotter Marganda had stolen over $24.5 million by the time investors realized his programs were fictitious. He charted a path on the run in places such as France, the Maldives, Nepal and Thailand, according to prosecutors. Under the alias Joshua Setiawan, Marganda traveled like a cosmopolitan globetrotter, prosecutors say in court filings. He typically traveled with a romantic partner and the two stayed in luxury hotels. According to federal court documents, stays included a three-month stint at the five-star St. Regis Hotel in Bangkok and a five-star Marriott hotel in Kathmandu. A credit card registered to Margandas one-time fiance not the partner he traveled with was used to pay for their first stays on the run, according to court papers. He was finally arrested by police in Singapore after a stay at the five-star Barracks Hotel Santosa, court documents say. Ponzi scheme changed futures and ruined families Some 237 people invested in Margandas sham programs: Easy Transfer and Global Transfer, according to court filings. Many investors became involved in the supposed 200% return schemes through Facebook groups, court papers say, and they came from 31 states, plus Washington, D.C., and the countries of Malaysia and Singapore. Marganda and his assistant targeted other Indonesian immigrants in America who had limited means, according to prosecutors. The Indonesian national was in the country illegally after overstaying his visa. At least 82 of the victims lived in Queens, New York, court papers say. They included people who went to the same church as Margandas assistants and they invested by pooling their cash, using both U.S. dollars and Indonesian rupiah. They poured their life savings into the investment schemes and when they realized the money they had originally saved for their childrens education, weddings and other consequential expenses was gone, it changed futures and ruined families, prosecutors say in court filings. Victims were left struggling to cover chemotherapy treatments and costs from a Stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis; they were unable to travel to bury their parents; several contemplated suicide and worse. One victim, a young mother, considered ending the life she had hardly begun, according to victims' statements that are part of the public record in the case. "I kept wanting to harm myself and worse my daughter, she said in a statement. My midwives kept calling and texting me every hour just to make sure I wouldnt do anything that I would regret for the rest of my life. Individual victims invested as much as $74,300 in the schemes, according to statements from victims included in court filings. Several people Marganda swindled told investigators that there are likely more victims who are hesitant to come forward out of shame or fear. They are Indonesian immigrants in the US, isolated without family or friends, and theyre terrified to speak up, fearing repercussions from the police or FBI, one victim said, according to court filings. The FBI maintains a special page dedicated to Margandas Ponzi scheme where new victims can come forward and potentially be eligible for restitution. Michael Loria is a national reporter on the USA TODAY breaking news desk. Contact him at mloria@usatoday.com, @mchael_mchael or on Signal at (202) 290-4585. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jet-setting con man stole $24.5M, lived fugitive life in fancy hotels Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth arrives before President Donald Trump speaks during an event to announce new tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House, Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will travel to Panama next week to meet with leaders of the Central American country following recent Trump administration allegations of Chinese interference in the operations of the critical Panama Canal shipping lane. President Donald Trump has complained about the U.S. relinquishing control of the waterway to Panama more than 20 years ago and has threatened to retake it, arguing that the U.S. was being overcharged for using it. Panamas government has denied Trump's assertion that China exerts influence over the canal. Sean Parnell, chief Pentagon spokesman, said Friday that Hegseth will participate in the 2025 Central American Security Conference. He said Hegseth will take part in meetings that will drive ongoing efforts to strengthen our partnerships with Panama and other Central American nations toward our shared vision for a peaceful and secure Western Hemisphere. He did not mention the canal, which was built by the U.S. in the early 1900s as it looked for ways to facilitate the transit of commercial and military vessels between its coasts. Washington turned control over to Panama on Dec. 31, 1999, under a treaty signed in 1977 by President Jimmy Carter. Trump has claimed that Carter foolishly gave the canal away. After Trump's threats, a Hong Kong-based conglomerate has agreed to sell its controlling stake in a subsidiary that operates ports near the Panama Canal to a consortium including BlackRock Inc., effectively putting the ports under American control. The deal will give the U.S. investment management company BlackRock Inc. control over 43 ports in 23 countries, including the ports of Balboa and Cristobal, located at either end of the Panama Canal. Other ports are in Mexico, the Netherlands, Egypt, Australia, Pakistan and elsewhere. The transaction must be approved by Panamas government, which has maintained that it has full control over the canal and that the Hong Kong-based groups operation of the ports did not amount to Chinese control over the waterway. Parnell said Hegseth also will stop at Eglin Air Force Base to visit service members and command leadership at the 7th Special Forces Group. Border Patrol agents in the El Paso Sector continue to apprehend human smugglers. The U.S. Attorney's Office continues to prosecute border related crimes, including those committed against Border Patrol agents. US Border Patrol El Paso Sector Chief Walter Slaser via X (The Center Square) In another immigration sweep in the largest city of Texas, 174 criminal illegal foreign nationals were deported to Mexico from Houston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said. ICEs Enforcement and Removal Operations Houston Field Office agents deported 174 criminal aliens to Mexico, including 24 gang members. Combined, those deported were convicted of 610 criminal offenses, ICE said. Many were previously deported multiple times. When including previous deportations, the 174 deported last month were deported a total of 415 times, according to ICE records. The most recent deportations occurred between March 17 and March 28. Among their 610 convictions, two were for homicide; four were for rape or sexual assault; five for child sex offenses; 72 for aggravated assault or assault; 49 for theft; five for firearms; 83 for drug trafficking or drug possession; 146 for driving while intoxicated; eight for hit-and-run and 22 for human smuggling, ICE said. Many of the criminal aliens removed to Mexico during the two-week period have illegally entered the U.S. numerous times and been convicted of multiple criminal offenses, ICE said. Among the Mexican national criminal aliens deported were: A 36-year-old previously removed from the U.S. 39 times. His convictions include illegal entry, DWI, dangerous drugs, and fraud.A 48-year-old previously removed from the U.S. 13 times. His 25 criminal convictions include narcotics offenses, resisting arrest, identity theft, domestic violence, assault, battery, larceny, kidnapping, illegal entry, illegal reentry, and destruction of evidence.A 50-year-old documented Florencia 13 gang member previously removed from the U.S. eight times. His convictions include domestic violence, battery, possession of stolen property, drug possession, aggravated assault with a gun, and illegal entry.A 60-year-old previously removed from the U.S. seven times. His convictions include eight DWIs, assault and illegal reentry.A 46-year-old previously removed from the U.S. seven times. His convictions include three DWIs, multiple for illegal entry and reentry, obstruction, immigration fraud, narcotics possession, and burglary. This is just a small snapshot of the amazing work that the brave men and women at ICE do every day to enhance public safety in Southeast Texas, ICE ERO Houston Field Office Director Bret Bradford said. Each day they put their lives on the line to apprehend and remove dangerous criminal aliens, transnational gang members and foreign fugitives who have illegally entered the U.S. and are preying on innocent, hardworking Texans. Fueled by our unwavering commitment to protect the public from harm, and united in our determination to restore integrity to our nations system of laws, ICE will continue to aggressively pursue and remove anyone who threatens the safety of our communities and the national security of our country. The announcement comes after ICE ERO Houston agents arrested 646 illegal foreign nationals in a one-week targeted enforcement action last month, The Center Square reported. Working with multiple federal, state and local law enforcement partners, ICE agents made the arrests including 543 whod been charged or convicted of criminal offenses while in the country illegally, including seven documented gang members. The majority arrested, 140, were charged or convicted of an aggravated felony or other violent crimes like homicide, aggravated assault, or domestic violence, according to ICE records. In recent years, some of the worlds most dangerous fugitives, transnational gang members and criminal aliens have taken advantage of the crisis at our nations southern border to illegally enter the U.S., Bradford said. After illegally entering the country, many of these criminal aliens have gone on to commit violent crime and reign terror on law-abiding residents. Their arrests, he said, sent a resounding message to transnational criminal organizations everywhere that the law enforcement community in the Texas Gulf Coast is more united than ever and will not rest until weve eradicated these criminal elements from the country. The Trump administration has prioritized deporting the most violent offenders in what it hopes will be a mass deportation effort. Deportations are underway after a record more than 14 million foreign nationals illegally entered the U.S. under the Biden administration, The Center Square exclusively reported. Under the Trump administration, illegal border crossings have dropped to record lows within two months of President Donald Trump being sworn into office. LONDON (Reuters) -China announced additional tariffs of 34% on U.S. goods on Friday, upping the ante in a global trade war after President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs this week. Growing fears of a recession roiled global stocks for a second day on Friday. Banking stocks cratered as investors fretted about growth and priced in far more central bank rate cuts while benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury yields slid below 4%. COMMENTS: STEPHANE EKOLO, MARKET & EQUITY STRATEGIST, TRADITION, LONDON "China comes out swinging with an aggressive response to Trump's tariffs. This is significant and is unlikely to be over, hence the negative market reactions. Investors are afraid of a 'tit for tat' trade war situation." PETER ANDERSEN, FOUNDER OF ANDERSEN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, BOSTON "The market, of course, is extremely surprised by China's aggressive retaliatory actions. I don't think many investors were anticipating such a sudden and large response in terms of the percentages of the tariffs back at the United States, so that certainly has set the market, which has already been wobbly, to be even more uncertain." KENNETH BROUX, SENIOR STRATEGIST FX AND RATES, SOCIETE GENERALE, LONDON "It just feeds this risk aversion and growth fears/recession in global trade." CHRISTOPHER WONG, CURRENCY STRATEGIST, OCBC, SINGAPORE "Tit for tat brings back memories of 2018 episode of trade war. Risk of slower global economic growth is expected to undermine cyclical FX including Aussie dollar, New Zealand dollar, and Asia-ex-Japan FX such as Korean won and CNH." SAMY CHAAR, CHIEF ECONOMIST, LOMBARD ODIER, GENEVA "It's still early to make a final assessment. There are two paths from here: There is the one where (Trump) shows openness to deals and even if we have a harsh start, with reciprocal tariffs and these responses by China, they show willingness to talk and bring tariffs lower in the months to come. "The other path is he has no appetite to strike deals, wishes to maintain the tariffs for an extended period of time and that breaks the machine. "I don't think this (Friday's Chinese retaliation) is a signal for one or the other. Everyone will flex their muscles, but it doesn't invalidate the idea that they make a deal at some point. But beside that, we need to have signs that at some point Trump is making comments that he is expecting to strike a deal." EDDIE KENNEDY, HEAD OF BESPOKE DISCRETIONARY FUND MANAGEMENT, MARLBOROUGH, LONDON "Others have maybe learned their lessons (from Trump's last term). They are fighting back and saying we can play the same game as you and we are more in a position of strength to negotiate." "All that is doing is escalating the issue and causing more negative feedback into the market. The biggest concern is this gets pushed onto the consumer." JAN VON GERICH, CHIEF MARKET STRATEGIST, NORDEA, HELSINKI "The reaction from China appears stronger-than-expected but we have to look at the detail. If Trump reacts to China's retaliation, then markets could take another hit. There is a risk that things are going too far in the markets selloff, but who wants to catch a falling knife?" (Reporting by Reuters global markets and finance teams;Editing by Alison Williams) Liberal firebrand Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) took almost $400,000 from political action committees, despite claiming otherwise, documents seen by The Post reveal. A 2020 tweet sent by the 44-year-old congresswoman recently blasted for referring to disabled Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair, as Hot Wheels claimed she had accepted zero dollars from corporate PACs while her opposition had taken $192,000. However, campaign finance disclosure data for the period between July 5 and Dec. 31, 2020, show a different picture. Disclosures from when she ran for state representative of District 100 in the Dallas area show 22 different entries from donors described as PACs, giving between $500 and $5,000 to her campaign. They include telecoms company AT&T, various teaching associations, a wholesale beer PAC, a Texas trial lawyers PAC and others. Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) at a House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform subcommittee on efficiency on Feb. 12, 2025. AP Crockett was first a lawyer and then a member of the Texas House of Representatives before becoming a US congresswoman in 2023. Getty Images Prof. Matthew Foster, a lecturer on government at American University, told The Post: Whats controversial about [PACs] is people fundamentally see it as an issue of buying ones support. Democrats are more sensitive to this. They know people look at their contributions and use them against them. Candidates and campaigns may avoid accepting them because of the optics as the average person fundamentally finds this very icky and sleazy and corrupt. Its a visceral reaction. Clearly [Crockett] thinks that issue is a big deal and a way to resonate with voters so if what they put out there was false, its a great opportunity for the opposition to run on that. Crockett, who previously practiced as a lawyer, draws a $174,000 annual salary as a member of the House of Representatives. She appears to have fully embraced traditional PACs in the years since her tweet. Crockett was widely criticized from both sides of the aisle after it was revealed she referred to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott as Hot Wheels. Annie Wermiel/NY Post Crockett once proudly posted that her campaign received no money from political action committees. However, her financial disclosures showed at least 22 organizations and companies that had donated to her described as such. Jasmine Crockett / X Public records show she accepted more than $370,000 in federal contributions from PACs representing corporations or business associations since 2022. These have a spending limit and are different from super PACs, which can also donate to political campaigns. Her donors included a mix of PAC and non-PAC donors including pharmaceutical giants including AbbVie and Gilead Sciences, financial services companies BlackRock and Goldman Sachs, major defense contractors including Lockheed Martin and RTX, and brands including McDonalds, Home Depot, CVS, Verizon and Toyota. Crockett did not respond to The Posts request for comment. Meanwhile, Crocketts disclosures also show she has received lavish trips while in office. In February 2023, just a month after being elected to the US House, she traveled to Doha, Qatar, at a total cost of about $17,500. The trip was paid for by the US Qatar Business Council, which has ties to the pro-Hamas Qatari government. The Waldorf Astoria in Doha, Qatar, where Crockett stayed on a trip paid for by a group linked to the countrys government. Hilton The disclosure shows that while there, she stayed at the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha, a five-star waterfront resort. The trip involved meetings organized by the US-Qatar Business Council between Crockett and high-ranking members of the Qatari government. Crockett also went on cultural exchange trips in 2023 paid for by the Indian and Emirati governments, according to her financial disclosure for that year. Those trips were also paid for by the governments of the respective countries. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (center, with beard) posted this picture of the US congressional delegation, which included Crocket (second from right). Narendra Modi/ X Crockett speaking at the Democratic National Convention in August 2024. AP At a minimum, it looks horrible Even if its just travel expenses covered and a place to stay overnight, said Foster. Its one of those borderline issues where you can form an argument for either side as to whether or not the member traveled as part of their role, and even if theres a violation, theyre not always reported to FEC and thats why these things easily get dicey. Anything in-kind even if its a spare house and the foreign government member let them stay overnight or covers their expenses, flights, dinners, these are considered in-kind contributions and treated as if given money. But even then, its where a lot of politicians get in trouble. Because they have to be accounted for. Its a violation in the spirit of it, said Foster, although he also pointed out that such gifts werent necessarily deemed illegal. Crocketts trip took place before the Hamas terror attack on Israel on Oct. 7 of that year, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and 250 captured as hostages, some of whom are still being held by the terror group. In the same set of disclosures, Crockett also listed a trip she took to Israel. Karen Read, the woman accused of killing her police officer boyfriend in 2022, asked the nation's highest court to overturn two charges against her on double jeopardy grounds as jury selection in her second murder trial began this week. Read filed the petition with the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday requesting the court throw out charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene of a collision causing injury or death. Read's lawyers say after the first trial, which ended in a mistrial last year, jurors told them they wanted to acquit Read of the two charges and only remained split on a manslaughter charge. Read's lawyers argue that because the jury's impasse "was limited to one of the three counts rather than all," Read should not have to fight those charges again. "In sum, the defense learned post-trial that the jury reached a verdict that was not announced, the petition said. It was at least entitled to the opportunity to substantiate that fact in order to ensure Read is not unconstitutionally forced to stand trial for criminal offenses, including murder, of which she has already been acquitted. Read, 45, is accused of killing her boyfriend, Braintree native and Boston police officer John O'Keefe, by backing into him with her SUV outside a Canton, Massachusetts, home in January 2022 and leaving him to die in a snowstorm following a night of drinking. Jury selection in her retrial started Tuesday. More: Karen Reads second murder trial began today. How will this one be different? Karen Read seeks to have two charges tossed Read's lawyer argue that retrying her on the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene of a collision constitutes double jeopardy. Under the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution, the Double Jeopardy Clause prohibits anyone from being prosecuted twice for substantially the same crime, according to Cornell Law School. Because the jury unanimously agreed Read was not guilty of the two charges, the charges should be tossed, her lawyers argue. "Read contends that the Double Jeopardy Clauses guarantee against successive prosecutions is no less fundamental than ... the Sixth Amendment right to an impartial jury and no less deserving of protection," her lawyers wrote in the petition. What Read's defense team filed with the Supreme Court is called a writ of certiorari, which is a request that the high court order a lower court to "send up the record of the case for review." The Supreme Court agrees to hear about 100 to 150 of the more than 7,000 cases that it is asked to review each year. According to the Supreme Court's website, a response to Read's petition is due by May 5. Read's failed attempts to throw out charges Read's attorneys first made the argument that the charges should be thrown out in a motion to dismiss filed last August. Norfolk Superior Court Judge Beverly Cannone, who presided over Read's first trial and is also handling her retrial, denied the motion. After an appeal, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court upheld Cannone's decision. Read's team then appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, which ultimately denied a post trial inquiry, arguing that the jury did not act on their alleged view that Read was not guilty of two counts. Read attempted to delay her retrial while her motion to dismiss the charges made its way through the court system. Cannone denied Read's motion seeking a delay, as did a federal judge. What happened in Karen Read's first trial? Prosecutors and Read's defense team called more than 65 witnesses in testimony during her first trial, including relatives of OKeefe, forensic experts and investigators. Read did not testify in her own defense. During the trial, prosecutors accused Read of striking OKeefe with her SUV and then leaving him to die in the snow on the lawn of a friends house after the couple got into an argument during a night of heavy drinking. They presented evidence that Read reportedly told police that she fought with OKeefe shortly before his death. She swore at him and accused him of infidelity in voicemail messages left the morning he died, police said. Reads defense team argued that she was a scapegoat in a cover-up by local law enforcement officials. The defense said Read dropped OKeefe off at the home of their friend and fellow Boston police officer, Brian Albert. They argued that Read was framed and that OKeefe was beaten inside Alberts home and then left in the snow outside. Cannone declared a mistrial in the case on July 1 after jurors returned multiple times stating they could not reach a verdict. This week, more than 1,000 people have been called to be potentially considered to serve on the jury of the retrial. Contributing: Karissa Waddick This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Karen Read asks Supreme Court to review case as retrial begins Too many animals are waiting for the right person to notice them. They languish at shelters or rescues, just hoping that someone will see them and bring them home. Cooper is one such animal. The Pit Bull looks so sad in a video shared by the Patty Baker Humane Society Naples in Naples, Florida. Wont someone adopt him, ASAP? All it takes is one person to change everything for a dog. One minute theyre stuck in a shelter the next they could be snuggled up to you on the couch. And this Pittie could be the movie buddy for you! The 6-year-old Pit is just looking for someone to give him a belly rub. Which we think can totally be achieved. According to the rescue, Cooper loves to perch on top of his kennel to watch people as they walk by . Cooper has the silliest personality, webbed feet, and an adorable little run that will make you smile. And that big, happy grin? Its impossible to resist! the rescue wrote in the videos caption. Related: Precious Bow-Legged Shelter Pit Bull Who 'Pops Up When People Pass' Has the Most Fitting Name The Pit Bull needs someone who will respect his space and give him time to adjust. But once he does, hell be your friend for life! Commenters were really hoping that someone will scoop Cooper up. He looks like the bestest boy. Good luck buddy, wrote one person. Boosting for Cooper in the hope someone will adopt or foster this handsome boy, added one commenter. Hoping and praying Cooper finds his forever family to love and care for him, chimed in a third person. Cooper is adorable! He needs a forever and loving home, one commenter agreed. Adopting From the Patty Baker Humane Society Naples If Cooper has caught your eye, why not put an adoption application in for him today? Theres a home out there for him. We just know it! So make sure you head over to the Patty Baker Humane Society Naples website and put in an application. Lets not let Cooper linger a minute longer. Come and adopt this sweet boy today! Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips. (Reuters) -Kirkland & Ellis, the largest U.S. law firm by revenue, is in talks with the White House to avoid an executive order similar to those levied against several of its rivals, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday. The news comes as President Donald Trump wages a pressure campaign against his perceived enemies in the legal profession, leading some major law firms to strike deals with the White House to avoid executive orders seeking to curtail their business with the federal government. Kirkland & Ellis and the White House did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment. Trump has already signed executive orders targeting five firms and reached settlements with four others that agreed to commit millions of dollars in free legal services to mutually agreed-upon projects with the White House and refrain from engaging in diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Another three law firms have sued to block Trump's executive orders targeting them, underscoring a deepening divide among large law firms over how to respond to Trump's actions. The president has primarily targeted firms with ties to lawyers who have investigated him or represent clients challenging his policies in court. Kirkland has been ranked for years as the top-grossing U.S. law firm by American Lawyer, with a reported $8.8 billion in revenues in 2024, and is known for its work on deals for private equity firms and for litigation. (Reporting by Jack Queen in New York; Additional reporting by Rajveer Singh Pardesi in Bengaluru; Editing by Leslie Adler) James Wei | Unsplash (The Center Square) Legislation to exempt caps on visas for foreign workers in the seafood industry has been introduced in the Senate, with supporters saying the workers are critical to the industry. Sens. Tim Kaine, D-Va., Mark Warner, D-Va. and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, introduced the Save Our Seafood Act, which would exempt fish processors from H-2B visa caps. The lawmakers say the visas are vital to the industry and economy. The Virginia senators say the seafood industry is a billion-dollar industry in the commonwealth that generates over $26 million and supports more than 7,000 jobs; however, it relies heavily on H-2B visa holders. Congress has set an H-2B, a non-agriculture temporary worker, program cap at 66,000 per fiscal year, according to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The program splits the number in half for workers to begin employment between Oct. 1 and March 31; the other 33,000 can work between Apr. 1 and Sept. 30. The senators say during crab and oyster season, the seafood processors struggle to get enough workers. The legislation would permanently exempt seasonal, nonimmigrant workers in the industry from the visa cap. The New American Economy found that foreign-born workers comprise a large portion of the seafood processing workforce, noting that nearly 63% of fish processing workers. Warner cautioned that without the workers, the industry could be jeopardized. Without this workforce, many of Virginias seafood processors would simply have to close up shop," Warner said. "Im glad to introduce this legislation that will help Virginias businesses by ensuring they have the labor needed to keep their operations up and running. John Graham III, president of Graham & Rollins, Inc., a Virginia-based seafood company, describes the visa program as a lifeline for his family business. Our fourth generation family crab processing facility in Hampton continues to struggle to keep our doors open! said Graham, who is supporting the legislation. The H-2B program has been our lifeline the last 30 years and without congressional help we will perish. The current lottery system currently deployed by Homeland Security is not feasible to sustain any kind of business and frankly is a disaster!! This is a locator map for Libya with its capital, Tripoli. (AP Photo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) CAIRO (AP) Libyan authorities ordered 10 international aid organizations to suspend operations and close offices in the country, accusing the groups of violating local laws by providing aid to African migrants. The Internal Security Agency said in a statement that the humanitarian organizations are violating the law by providing various forms of assistance that would help resettle African migrants in the country. We affirm that the project of settling illegal immigrants of African nationalities within the country represents a hostile activity targeting the Libyan demographics, the ISA said Wednesday. Libya plunged into chaos after a NATO-backed uprising toppled and killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. The country split, with rival administrations in the east and west backed by rogue militias and foreign governments. Libya, which shares borders with six nations and has a long coastline along the Mediterranean, is a main transit point for migrants fleeing war and poverty in Africa and the Middle East to seek better lives in Europe. The International Organization for Migration estimates around 787,000 migrants and refugees from various nationalities live in Libya as of 2024. The list of aid groups the agency announced includes Doctors Without Borders, Norwegian Refugee Council, Danish Refugee Council, Terre des Hommes, Care, Acted, Inter SOS and the Italian organization Cesvi. Many of those organizations provided crucial immediate relief during the devastating floods in the country that killed thousands in 2023. The ISA said the organizations were suspected of money laundering because they avoided transparency in how financial transfers are made for their projects and how they can exchange foreign currency for local currency. Salem Ghaith, ISA spokesperson, said during a news conference that strict legal action will be taken against the non-governmental organizations in addition to the closure of their offices. He said they illegally provided aid ranging from cash vouchers, clothing, food, housing and medical assistance, which helped settle migrants initially en route to Europe. As a result, there is no longer a need for them to risk crossing the seas and migrating to Europe, turning Libya into a destination country rather than a transit one, said Ghaith. MSF, the abbreviation for the French name of Doctors Without Borders, is among the organizations targeted. It said in an update in February that migrants in Libya face violence and are often denied health care. They live in precarious conditions and are subjected to a range of violence and abuse, both inside and outside the countrys detention centers. Abducted, subjected to extortion and trafficking practices, assaulted or sexually abused, their access to healthcare is severely hampered at a time when they desperately need it, read MSFs update. The Libyan government agency said the Norwegian Refugee Council provided illegal migrants with financial aid, food supplies, cleaning materials, clothing and medicine, without the knowledge or permission of Libyan authorities, violating country provisions that address state security crimes. This story was first published on Apr. 4, 2025. It was updated on Apr. 8, 2025 to delete the final paragraph that refers to Relief International. Relief International has no operations in Libya and it is unclear to which agency the Libyan authorities were referring. FLORIDA KEYS It wasnt an easy road back to water for the 322-pound loggerhead named Lenny. The turtle was spotted injured, struggling to swim, near Alligator Reef off Islamorada in the Florida Keys in mid-March by underwater photographer Mike Papish. I saw he had a badly damaged flipper, and his face was a little mashed-up from a shark attack, Papish said. Papish and his friends with Sundance WaterSports took the turtle to the surface, then took him by boat to shore and transported him via turtle ambulance to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, Florida. The Turtle Hospital ambulance in Marathon, Fla. The Turtle Hospital is a small nonprofit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles, the only one of its kind in Florida. Once Lenny was there, manager Bette Zirkelbach knew it was a race against the clock. There are not a lot of predators, right, that could get a mouth around a turtle that size. So we are assuming it was a very large shark, Zirkelbach said. Lenny, who lost part of his front left flipper and has noticeable scarring on his head, was treated with IV fluids, subcutaneous fluids and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Lenny the turtle. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, only 1 in 1,000 seat turtle hatchlings survive to adulthood, so Lennys survival was vital for the next generation of his species. These turtles are up against a lot when theyre hatchlings. Everything eats baby turtles, from crabs to birds to fish, once they enter the ocean. Two red ant bites can kill a hatchling, Zirkelbach said. So when you realize that and what Lenny would have had to endure to make it out to sea and survive, you know, he beat the statistics. After a few weeks of care, Lenny was healthy enough to return to the sea. Lenny the turtle is released off Florida. On March 25, he was taken back out to the reef where he was found, and with his rescuer swimming behind with his camera, Lenny swam away. He looked back as I was getting his last shot, and then he just kind of waved," Papish said. Mayor Adams and a book cover for Government Gangsters: The Deep State, the Truth, and the Battle for Our Democracy by Kash Patel Theyre deep thinkers. Mayor Eric Adams copped to believing the deep state is real this week echoing President Trump and the MAGA movement. I dont want to sound conspiracy theory, but theres a permanent government, Adams told comedian Andrew Schulz on the Flagrant Podcast Wednesday. There are people that see presidents and mayors come and go. Their attitudes will wait you out. Eric Adams is a guest on Andrew Schulzs Flagrant podcast. Youtube/ FLAGRANT The admittedly tin foil hat stance from Adams came on the same day a judge dismissed the federal corruption case that has dogged him since September. Adams after Manhattan federal Judge Dale Ho tossed the charges for good Wednesday closed a victorious address outside Gracie Mansion by holding up a book from Trump partisan and current FBI Director Kash Patel called Government Gangsters: The Deep State, the Truth, and the Battle for Our Democracy. The Democratic mayor, who on Thursday announced hed be running for re-election on an independent line in November, glowingly if conspiratorially praised the book in subsequent interviews for opening his eyes to what he claimed happened to him. Everybody should read the book, Adams told Schulz. Eric Adams said he is leaving the Democratic Party to run as an independent in his reelection campaign. Youtube/ FLAGRANT Of course, of course, we like Kash. But is this like what people refer to? And I think this word has been used too much, but like the deep state or whatever it is, Schulz pushed back. Its not used too much. Its real, brother, Adams responded. The mayor forged ahead, (Patel) comes with this wealth of knowledge and the way he breaks it down, its just unbelievable what this deep state is about and why its so important for Americans that we cannot have a weaponizing of our prosecutorial powers. Adams has contended that Southern District of New York prosecutors targeted him after he spoke up about former President Joe Bidens dealing with the migrant crisis. He acknowledged on the podcast that it was a situation that struck a chord with Trump, who has maintained his myriad criminal cases were retribution by his political enemies. Eric Adams praised FBI director Kash Patels 2023 book, Government Gangsters: The Deep State, the Truth, and the Battle for Our Democracy. Amazon He didnt have to come out on his campaign trail and say, this is wrong what theyre doing to Eric, Adams gratefully said of Trump. He did it at rallies. Federal prosecutors started their corruption probe into Adams in 2021 before he was elected mayor and before hundreds of thousands of migrants ended up in New York City. The historic indictment against Adams accused him of accepting bribes from Turkish nationals in the form of luxury travel perks such as flight upgrades. Adams, though he spilled his guts about the deep state with Schulz, didnt entirely open up with the popular podcaster. Schulz jokingly asked Adams whats the best bodega boner pill. If I answer that, Ill be on the front page of The Post, Adams said. Chicago Police Department via AP (2) Michael Washington and Eric Adams A mother was shot and killed while holding her 1-year-old daughter on Chicago's West Side in 2019. Six years later, two men have been convicted of committing the murder. In March 2019, Brittany Hill was holding her child, Ja-Miley Jones, and speaking to her boyfriend on North Mason Avenue when a silver sedan pulled up. One person got out and began to shoot, striking Hill. She took herself to West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Park, Ill., where she later succumbed to her wounds, per ABC 7. She was 24 years old. Hill reportedly used her body to shield her daughter, who did not sustain any injuries. The crime was captured by a police street camera. On Wednesday, April 2, Judge Thomas Byrne, who presided over the case, said the video clearly captured the crime as well as the perpetrators. I saw that young, 24-year-old mother die on the videotape," the judge said, per the Chicago Tribune. Related: 9-Year-Old Girl Killed, Multiple People Injured in Chicago Mass Shooting Outside Family Gathering Judge Byrne ruled on Wednesday that Michael Washington and Eric Adams approached Hill in a silver Chevy Impala before they opened fire. They were found guilty of first-degree murder, attempted murder, and aggravated discharge of a firearm. Prosecutors confirmed in court that Hill's daughter smiled and waved at the shooters before they opened fire, Chicago Tribune reports. Brittany Hill/Facebook Brittany Hill, shooting victim 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. Hill's father, James Hill, told the outlet following the ruling that his late daughter "was my heart." Hill's daughter Ja-Miley, now 7 years old, lives with her grandparents and is thriving in school, the outlet additionally reports. Related: Teenager Who Shot Dead His Mother, Brother and Sister Also Planned Mass Shooting at His Former Elementary School: Police Criminal defense lawyer John Nocita, who represents Adams, argued Wednesday that the police camera evidence did not show that his client actually fired a weapon. You dont see shooting. You dont see aiming. You dont see recoil or smoke, he said. This argument, however, did not move Judge Byrne. That tape leaves no question as to what occurred, he said, per the Chicago Tribune. The proof is overwhelming in this case. PEOPLE reached out to Nocita for comment. PEOPLE was unable to immediately identify who Washington's lawyer is. Hill is also survived by her son, who was 7 years old when Hill died. Washington and Adams are due back in court in May for a pre-sentencing hearing on May 13, per Fox 32. Read the original article on People The Monkey, the latest horror film from Osgood Perkins, and Black Bag, directed by filmmaker Steven Soderbergh, top this weeks list of movies newly available to watch from the comfort of your home. If youre looking for something on a streaming service that youre already paying for, there are three additional great options: One of Them Days, a new comedy starring Keke Palmer and SZA; crime thriller comedy The Last Stop in Yuma County and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, a holiday treat for April. Heres what to know about the movies newly available to stream as of this week, and where you can find them. Click on the links below to jump straight to a specific movie: The Monkey A scene from The Monkey. (Neon/Courtesy of Everett Collection) (Courtesy Everett Collection) The Monkey is director Osgood Perkinss follow-up to his smash-hit Longlegs. Based on a short story by Stephen King, the movie couldnt be more different in tone than its predecessor. The film more closely resembles a Final Destination sequel than anything in Perkinss ouevre. It takes glee in the spectacle of death as it comes for the films characters. When twin brothers find a mysterious wind-up monkey, a series of outrageous deaths tear apart their family. Twenty-five years later, the monkey begins a new killing spree, forcing the estranged siblings to confront the cursed toy. Despite the comic tone, The Monkey is emotionally affecting. The filmmaker's own history of personal tragedies, including that his mother died in the September 11 attacks, makes him the ideal candidate for a movie about how one deals with the randomness of death. Its equal parts a send-up of the this horror movie is actually about grief trend and an earnest take on one. What is there left to do in the fact of death but laugh? How to watch: The Monkey is now available to rent or purchase on Prime Video and other video-on-demand platforms. Rent or buy on Amazon One of Them Days SZA and Keke Palmer in One of Them Days. (TriStar Pictures/Courtesy of Everett Collection) (TriStar Pictures/Courtesy Everett Collection) One of Them Days is a bit of rarity as a pure comedy. The movie, starring Keke Palmer and musician SZA, is refreshing in its sole commitment to just trying to make you laugh, and it succeeds with flying colors in its brisk 97 minutes. The film wears its influences on its sleeve, namely 1995s Friday and other all in one day-set comedies that seemed to proliferate in that era. It follows best friends and roommates Dreux and Alyssa as they discover Alyssas boyfriend has blown their rent money, finding themselves going to extremes in a comical race against the clock to avoid eviction and keep their friendship intact. Both Palmer and SZA are laugh-out-loud funny throughout, as are a number of side characters, including a memorable turn from stand-up comedian and actor Katt Williams. Its a treat! How to watch: One of Them Days is now streaming on Netflix. Stream on Netflix Black Bag Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender in Black Bag. (Claudette Barius/Focus Features /Courtesy of Everett Collection) (Focus Features/Courtesy Everett Collection) Black Bag, Steven Soderberghs second movie of 2025 is already on streaming, and its another cracking genre experiment with a killer cast from one of the most prolific filmmakers today. When intelligence agent Kathryn Woodhouse (Cate Blanchett) is suspected of betraying the nation, her husband (Michael Fassbender) also a legendary agent faces the ultimate test of whether to be loyal to his wife or his country. Its sexy, it's exciting and its often hilarious. Imagine Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy from the guy that brought us Sex, Lies and Videotape: beautifully shot, full of exciting dialogue and flirtation thats often wielded by its characters like a weapon. People love to complain that they dont make movies like this for adults anymore. This is a great one! How to watch: Black Bag is now available to rent or purchase on Prime Video and other video-on-demand platforms. Rent or buy on Amazon The Last Stop in Yuma County Jim Cummings in The Last Stop in Yuma County. (Well Go USA Entertainment/Courtesy of Everett Collection) (Courtesy Everett Collection) The Last Stop in Yuma County is a self-aware genre exercise, a dark comedy that feels plucked from a bygone era of Quentin Tarantino and Coen brothers imitations. The premise is pretty fantastic and sounds like a movie that couldve been made in the 40s or 50s (if it werent for all those 90s signifiers): While awaiting the next fuel truck at a middle-of-nowhere Arizona rest stop, a traveling young knife salesman is thrust into a high-stakes hostage situation by the arrival of two similarly stranded bank robbers with no qualms about using cruelty to protect their ill-gotten fortune. Its about as fun as it is mean and nihilistic, and the performances from indie darlings like Jim Cummings and genre staples like Joceline Donahue and Richard Brake help elevate the material beyond imitation. How to watch: The Last Stop in Yuma County is now streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime. Stream on Paramount+ The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Pete Holmes and Judy Greer in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. (Allen Fraser/Lionsgate /Courtesy of Everett Collection) (Lions Gate/Courtesy Everett Collection) Based on the beloved childrens book of the same name, The Best Christmas Pagaent Ever is a cute, sweet family film, starring beloved character actress Judy Greer in a leading role alongside comedian Pete Holmes. The six Herdman kids are undeniably the worst children in town: They lie, steal, cheat, bully and overall terrorize their small community. But on Christmas, theyre taking over their local church pageant, and they just might unwittingly teach a shocked little town the true meaning of the holiday. Its funny to watch the locals react to the Herdman kids wackiness, but theres a sad story behind why these kids are the way they are. Its trying very hard to be A Christmas Story with its narration and structure, and its easy to see this one becoming a perennial classic for some. How to watch: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is now streaming on Starz. Stream on Starz If you buy something through a link in this article, we may earn commission. Gen. Timothy Haugh, director of the National Security Agency, on Capitol Hill on March 11. The director and the No. 2 official at the National Security Agency were ousted from their positions Thursday, according to a defense official and three sources with knowledge of the matter. It was not immediately clear why Air Force Gen. Timothy Haugh and his deputy were dismissed, the sources said. The White House National Security Council did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday night. Haugh was both the head of U.S. Cyber Command and the director of the National Security Agency, a role he had served in since February 2024. Wendy Noble, the NSAs Deputy Director, was the agencys senior civilian leader. Hours after the firings became public, Laura Loomer, a far-right conspiracy theorist who met with President Trump this week, took credit for their removals. "Thank you President Trump for being receptive to the vetting materials provided to you," Loomer wrote in a social media post. "And thank you for firing these Biden holdovers." "NSA Director Tim Haugh and his deputy Wendy Noble have been disloyal to President Trump," she added. "That is why they have been fired." Loomer, who has spread false conspiracy theories that the 9/11 attacks were an inside job, did not cite specific examples of when they had been disloyal to Trump. She said they could not be trusted because they were Biden appointees. Haugh and Noble are career officials who have spent decades working under Republican and Democratic administrations. Haugh has spent more than 30 years in the Air Force, primarily in intelligence and cyber positions. Nobles joined the NSA in 1987 and has worked her way up in the agency since then. Congressional Democrats blasted the Trump administration over the firings. "I have known General Haugh to be an honest and forthright leader who followed the law and put national security first I fear those are precisely the qualities that could lead to his firing in this administration," Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, said in a statement. The Intelligence Committee and the American people need an immediate explanation for this decision, which makes all of us less safe, he added. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., the ranking Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, said removing Haugh was astonishing. At a time when the United States is facing unprecedented cyber threats, as the Salt Typhoon cyberattack from China has so clearly underscored, how does firing him make Americans any safer? Warner said in a statement. Larry Pfeiffer, a former senior intelligence official, called the dismissals unprecedented. America should worry when the politicians want to control the guys with the worlds most powerful eavesdropping capability, he said. He said presidents in the past have deferred to the advice of the defense secretary and the CIA director on appointments to lead the NSA. Last month, Trump adviser Elon Musk visited the National Security Agency's headquarters and met with Haugh. That visit came around a week after Musk remarked on his social media platform, X, that "The NSA needs an overhaul." Earlier Thursday, NBC News reported that Trump fired at least three National Security Council officials this week after far-right activist Laura Loomer met with him and expressed dissatisfaction with some officials on his national security team. Chenyu Guan | Unsplash (The Center Square) An advocacy group sued the U.S. Department of Education seeking records related to the Biden administrations response to anti-Israel riots held on Columbia Universitys campus after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel. Under the Biden administration, antisemitism flourished on U.S. college campuses as pro-Hamas rioters took over U.S. college campuses, including Columbia University, attacking Jewish students, harassing and threatening public officials, The Center Square reported. For more than a year, antisemitism and violence escalated by nearly 400% against Jews in America and Jewish students said they didnt feel safe on U.S. college campuses, including at Columbia University, The Center Square reported. Last June, the Center to Advance Security in America, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the safety and security of Americans and to government transparency, submitted two Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to the U.S. Department of Education to find out how it handled the rampant antisemitic discrimination that erupted in American educational institutions following Hamass terror attack against Israel on October 7, 2023. Large demonstrations and encampments at Columbia University have been left unaddressed, resulting in calls for the university president to resign, CASA Director James Fitzpatrick wrote in one letter to the agency. Allowing university students to effectively control the campus grounds while creating a hostile environment for Jewish students sets a dangerous precedent for higher education while also impacting diplomatic efforts in support of Israel. Therefore, increased transparency on addressing campus protests is necessary to mitigate heightened antisemitism and violence. The FOIA requested communications to, from or received from DOE officials that contained phrases or words related to the riots, as well as records of meeting requests, meeting invitations, call logs and chats related to Columbia University encampments and riots. CASA also requested calendar entries of DOE officials and communications they had with members of the media, including Politico, the New York Times, the Washington Post, NBC News, ABC News, CBS News, the Los Angeles Times and others. The DOE acknowledged receipt of the requests but then failed to provide further communications, responsive records, or a time estimate for its response, according to the complaint. Since then, CASA has never received the requested information. On Friday, CASA sued the DOE in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia requesting the court to compel the DOE to provide the requested information in accordance with the law. "Given the many public statements by former Biden Administration Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and his leadership team, there are undoubtedly government communications that were exchanged regarding the pro-Hamas, antisemitic demonstrations at Columbia University in the Spring of 2024," CASA Director James Fitzpatrick told The Center Square. "The American public deserves to see how Biden administration Education Department officials were internally discussing these protests to gain insight into why no action was taken to address the threat to Jewish students." Even after President Donald Trump was sworn into office and began reversing Biden administration policies, CASA argues releasing the requested information is in the public interest because it will help the public understand the nature of DOEs response to mass disturbances, violence, and other serious civil rights issues at Columbia University. It says its goal is to inform the public so it can be engaged with its leaders and ensure their decisions are consistent with Americas best interests. Trump policies have prioritized cracking down on antisemitism on U.S. college campuses. One executive order he issued required higher education institutions to eliminate what he described as discriminatory policies under the guise of diversity, equity and inclusion. Another directed the targeting and deporting of pro-Hamas and Palestinian rioters who are either in the U.S. illegally or admitted through visas to rescind their visa and remove them from the country, The Center Square reported. Last month, the Trump administration announced it was cancelling $400 million in federal grants and contracts to Columbia, arguing it failed to crack down on antisemitism on campus. The move resulted in Columbia announcing it would overhaul its student disciplinary process, ban protesters from wearing masks on campus, ban demonstrations in academic buildings, adopt a new definition of antisemitism among other changes, The Center Square reported. CASAs lawsuit was filed by Dhillon Law Group, whose founder, Harmeet Dhillon, was nominated by Trump to lead the Department of Justices Civil Rights Division. The U.S. Senate confirmed her nomination on Thursday. Last month, CASA first sued the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for failing to release records related to Secret Service staff possibly colluding with some congressional Democrats to strip then presidential candidate Trump of his Secret Service detail after a failed assassination attempt was made against him, The Center Square reported. By Ellen Zhang, Maria Martinez and Promit Mukherjee BEIJING/BERLIN/OTTAWA (Reuters) - U.S. trading partners have few good options in their trade war with President Donald Trump, other than to sue for peace. Hit by 10%-50% tariffs on their exports to the world's dominant economic superpower, most lack the firepower to hit back or the political will to slug it out, say government officials, economists and trade experts. This is why the vast majority of trading partners did not immediately retaliate and indicated a readiness to negotiate a face-saving compromise with Trump. Even among those that have taken counter measures, the door was left ajar to talks. From China, which on Friday slapped extra tariffs of 34% on all U.S. goods, to Canada, which has taken limited retaliation, nations are tipped to come to the negotiating table sooner or later, given U.S. consumption is so important globally -- two-thirds bigger than EU consumption, according to World Bank data. Other than talks, governments have limited options to protect their export industries and broader economies. These include spending on state aid or on broader economic stimulus -- Spain announced a 14 billion ($15.5 billion) aid package on Thursday -- or looking to greener trade pastures. German officials are eyeing up Mexico, Canada and India. But for a world already deep in state debt after years of pandemic-era stimulus spending, it will be tough for some to fund the subsidies and other financial aid required to stave off economic growth downgrades, profit warnings and layoffs. Economists expect Beijing to unleash more fiscal stimulus to support its economy, which sells goods worth more than $400 billion a year to the United States. It will also try to develop other export markets, according to Chinese policy advisers. "We need to strengthen our coordination with ASEAN, Japan, South Korea, EU and UK," said one Chinese adviser, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the issue's sensitivity. Trump's "Liberation Day" tariffs took the tax imposed on Chinese exports since his January inauguration to 54%. Even with China's economic armoury -- its financial might, domination of critical mineral and metal production for advanced industries and centrality to global supply chains -- a negotiated truce is ultimately expected, the trade adviser said. That could take a while, given the enmity between Washington and Beijing, though there is speculation that Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping could meet in the United States in June. ECONOMIC SHOCKS Countries lacking China's power may reach the table sooner. India, hit with a 27% tariff, is already in talks and is not considering retaliation, said a government official. It had made concessions to Washington ahead of the latest tariffs and it is open to cutting tariffs on more than half of U.S. imports worth $23 billion in a first-phase deal, government sources said. Vietnam, too, is expected to prioritise negotiations, with limited scope for subsidies and trade diversification. It could try leveraging the exposure that some U.S. manufacturers have to Vietnam to pressure the Trump administration, according to Leif Schneider, head of international law firm Luther in Vietnam. But, he added, "Vietnam will likely prioritise negotiations to avoid an economic shock." Hit by a 46% tariff, it ranks as the sixth-biggest exporter to the United States, thanks to its success as an offshoring option for manufacturers diversifying away from China. Southeast Asia in general has nowhere to run. Its efforts to deepen trade with China, Japan and other big neighbours have led to an alphabet soup of trade groupings which facilitate trade but fall well short of compensating for a U.S. trade shock. Ahead of Trump's announcement, China, Japan and South Korea held their first economic dialogue in five years, seeking to boost regional trade. But there is scepticism it will go far, not least because these three are exporting powerhouses, not net contributors to global demand. LAYOFFS HAVE STARTED The European Union, already feeling abandoned by the Trump administration over security, said the common market of 450 million people was ready to retaliate against Trump's 20% tariff against the bloc and also look to other markets. "Forging alliances ... is the order of the day," German Economy Minister Robert Habeck said, singling out Mexico, Canada and India where closer trade relations would make sense. Trade deals can take time, though -- time that Europe and others don't have. The EU and South America's Mercosur bloc talked for 25 years before unveiling a free trade deal in December. Trump's reciprocal tariffs take effect on Wednesday. It also takes time to rewire an economy to cope with global protectionism, which is what German economists say is the right response. Structural reform, such as more competition and tech investment, is preferable to state stimulus, they say. "There is not much that either fiscal or monetary policy can do in the short term to offset the trade shock," Deutsche Bank economist Robin Winkler said. German bank Berenberg says a large part of the new U.S. tariffs can be rolled back in negotiations, with Europe offering concessions such as more contracts to U.S. defence firms. Canada was spared additional tariffs this week but it is reeling from earlier, 25% U.S. tariffs on its auto, steel and aluminium exports. Canada is splurging on subsidies, funded by its own retaliatory tariffs, but the pain is still being felt. European carmaker Stellantis NV said on Thursday it would pause production at a Canadian assembly plant. And companies have reported that they have already started layoffs and pivoting towards newer markets. Some nations have complained to the global trade referee, the World Trade Organisation, but that is judged a feeble option by trade experts, not least because Trump paralysed its top appeals bench in his first term. Nor is the Geneva body seen as a likely venue for renegotiating tariff disputes. "If they keep pushing protectionism and sticking to this one-sided perspective, I don't see them coming back to the WTO for multilateral negotiations anytime soon," said Marco Molina, of consulting firm Molina & Associates and former deputy permanent representative of Guatemala to the WTO. "And that's a real shame because the WTO was literally designed to address issues like these." ($1 = 0.9057 euros) (Reporting by Ellen Zhang and Kevin Yao in Beijing, Francesco Guarascio in Hanoi, Ira Dugal in Mumbai, Maria Martinez in Berlin, Chrisoph Steitz in Frankfurt, Promit Mukherjee in Ottawa, Emma Farge in Geneva, Keika Kihara in Tokyo; Writing by Mark Bendeich, Editing by William Maclean) By Suleiman Al-Khalidi and Jonathan Spicer AMMAN/ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey scoped out at least three air bases in Syria where it could deploy forces as part of a planned joint defence pact before Israel hit the sites with air strikes this week, four people familiar with the matter said. The bombardment signals the risks of a deepening rift between two powerful regional militaries over Syria, where Islamist rebels have installed a new government after toppling former leader Bashar al-Assad in December. The Israeli strikes on the three sites Turkey was assessing, including a heavy barrage on Wednesday night, came despite Ankara's efforts to reassure Washington that a deeper military presence in Syria was not intended to threaten Israel. The Islamists replacing Assad have alarmed Israel, which is wary of an Islamist presence on its border and has lobbied the United States to curb Turkey's growing influence in the country. Ankara, a longtime backer of opposition to Assad, is positioning to play a major role in the remade Syria, including with a possible joint defence pact that could see new Turkish bases in central Syria and use of Syria's airspace. In preparation, Turkish military teams in recent weeks visited the T4 and Palmyra air bases in Syria's Homs province and the main airport in Hama province, according to a regional intelligence official, two Syrian military sources and another Syrian source familiar with the matter. The sources spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the visits, which have not been previously reported. Turkish teams evaluated the state of the runways, hangars and other infrastructure at the bases, the regional intelligence official said. Another planned visit to T4 and Palmyra on March 25 was cancelled after Israel struck both bases just hours beforehand, according to the regional intelligence official and the two Syrian military sources. Strikes at T4 "destroyed the runway, tower, hangars and the planes that were grounded. It was a tough message that Israel won't accept the expanded Turkish presence," said the intelligence official, who reviewed photographs of the damage. "T4 is totally unusable now," said a fourth Syrian source, who is close to Turkey. When asked about the visits, a Turkish defence ministry official said: "Reports and posts regarding developments in Syria - whether real or alleged - that do not originate from official authorities should not be taken into consideration, as they lack credibility and may be misleading." A spokesperson for Syria's defence ministry declined to comment. Turkey's foreign ministry on Thursday called Israel "the greatest threat to regional security". On Friday, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told Reuters Turkey wanted no confrontation with Israel in Syria. HEAVY STRIKES In the four months since Assad was toppled, Israel has seized ground in southwest Syria, made overtures to the Druze minority, and struck much of the Syrian military's heavy weapons and equipment. Wednesday's strikes were some of the most intense yet. Syria's foreign ministry said Israel struck five separate areas within a 30-minute window, resulting in the near-total destruction of the Hama base and wounding dozens of civilians and soldiers. Israel said it hit the T4 air base and other military capabilities at air bases in Hama and Homs provinces, as well as military infrastructure in the Damascus area. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz called the air strikes a warning that "we will not allow the security of the State of Israel to be harmed". Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Ankara of seeking a "Turkish protectorate" in Syria. Noa Lazimi, a specialist in Middle East politics at Bar-Ilan University, said Israel was concerned that Turkey could establish Russian anti-aircraft systems and drones at T4. "The base would enable Turkey to establish air superiority in this area, and this poses a serious concern for Israel because it undermines its operational freedom in the region," she said. 'IDEOLOGICAL COLLISION COURSE' Turkey has tried to reassure the U.S. that it wants to work towards a stable Syria. Foreign Minister Fidan told U.S. officials in Washington last month that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa would not pose a threat to neighbours, according to a senior regional diplomat close to Turkey and a source in Washington briefed on the meetings. Fidan and other Turkish officials had earlier told Sharaa that Ankara was carefully calibrating its moves towards a defence pact so as not to irk Washington, one of the Syrian military sources said. "Turkey, not Israel, would pay the highest price among regional states were there to be failure or destabilization in Syria, including with refugees and security," an official in Turkey's ruling AK Party told Reuters. Soner Cagaptay, director of the Turkish Research Program at the Washington Institute think tank, said Turkey and Israel were on an "ideological collision course" but could avoid military escalation through mediation with Washington. (Reporting by Suleiman al-Khalidi in Amman; Jonathan Spicer in Istanbul; additional reporting by Maya Gebeily in Beirut, Emily Rose in Jerusalem, and Huseyin Hayatsever in Ankara; Writing by Maya Gebeily, Editing by Aidan Lewis) By Samia Nakhoul BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told Reuters on Friday that any potential peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia would be "difficult to digest" but would still be better than the alternative of more death and destruction. Turkey, a NATO member, has maintained cordial ties with both Kyiv and Moscow since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It has voiced support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and provided it with military help, while opposing sanctions on Russia. In an interview on the sidelines of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brussels, Fidan said Turkey supported a U.S. initiative to seek an end to the war in Ukraine, but that the sides remained a "little bit far away" from reaching a deal. "It will be extremely difficult to digest any proposal," Fidan said. "But when we look at the other option, which is more death and destruction, I think whatever the conditions that we have... will be more reasonable" than the alternative. U.S. President Donald Trump "is finally following an agenda to stop the war", he added. Asked about potential security guarantees for Ukraine, Fidan said Europe could not provide them on its own without U.S. support, but added that a deterrence factor was needed for the fighting not to restart. "There is a huge effort to get the American side again to engage in security support to Ukraine," he said, referring to recent talks among European states. He added that "we should expect" that all sides including Russia would honour any ultimate agreement. The prospect of ending the war has heightened Turkey's role in regional security, making it a key potential partner in the restructuring of Europe's security architecture, as European powers scramble to bolster their own defences and seek guarantees for Ukraine under any forthcoming peace deal. Kyiv has said Turkey, with the second largest army in NATO, would be an important guarantor for security. Ankara has said it would consider joining a peace initiative on the ground, though it has said details of such a mission remain unclear. Fidan repeated Turkey's offer to host Russia and Ukraine for possible peace talks, after having hosted initial talks in 2022. U.S. SANCTIONS Asked about Trump's dramatic shift in U.S. transatlantic security policies, including closer ties with Russia, Fidan said this could be an opportunity for Europe to be more independent after its "huge dependency" on the United States since the Cold War. "If we see that the main actors are not hostile anymore (and are) having some kind of cooperation, I think the mentality that we have inherited from the Cold War, which was based on the hostility between mainly the United States and Russia will create a huge change," he said. Fidan, who met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the NATO summit after having visited him in Washington last month, also said he was hopeful that Trump would find a solution to end years-long U.S. sanctions on Turkey's defence industry. The so-called CAATSA sanctions were applied after Turkey acquired Russian S-400 defence systems in 2019, also resulting in the country's removal from an F-35 fighter jet development and procurement system. The sanctions "should be corrected," Fidan said. "I think Mr. Trump, with his problem-solving techniques and his team, will be able to come up with some sort of solution." (Reporting by Samia Nakhoul; Writing and additional reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu and Huseyin Hayatsever;Editing by Jonathan Spicer and Gareth Jones) The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) building in Springfield. By Greg Bishop | The Center Square DCFS worked fired An attorney for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services was fired after allegedly working for a bank on state time. A report by the Office of Executive Inspector General said that Deborah Riley disclosed to the state that she was a part-time employee at a bank. An investigation showed that Riley was working at the bank even more hours than her DCFS position during some weeks. Investigators said the claim that bank work was being performed during breaks and off hours was not found not credible. Naturalization ceremony Tuesday U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will be holding a naturalization ceremony Tuesday at the Old State Capitol in Springfield. Officials said the agency often participates in naturalization ceremonies at museums, schools, and other notable locations to celebrate the conclusion of an immigrants journey to citizenship. The citizenship candidates come from 27 countries, including Cuba, India, Ukraine and Iran. Call 811 before digging near utility In observance of safe digging month, the Illinois Commerce Commission is reminding citizens they can reduce utility outages by calling 811. The states annual proclamation is a reminder to professional excavators and homeowners alike to call 811 to safely mark utility lines before starting a digging project. Homeowners and excavators may face penalties for not calling 811, and utilities may be cited and fined for failing to mark lines in a timely manner. What we know about the foreign college students targeted for deportation The Trump administration has set off a legal and ethical firestorm by targeting international students at U.S. colleges for deportation, including some whom the government alleges participated in pro-Palestinian protests or activities on campuses. The Trump administration has claimed without presenting evidence that some of those students support the terrorist organization Hamas, while the students say the White House is treading on their constitutional right to free speech and the longstanding tradition of participating in campus demonstrations. Since President Trump's Jan. 30 executive order to "combat the explosion of anti-Semitism on our campuses and streets" in the aftermath of the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, the State Department has revoked around 300 visas so far, many of them held by college students alleged to have participated in pro-Palestinian activities on the nation's campuses, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. PHOTO: Protesters march as they rally for Gaza and demand the release of detained Columbia University student Mahmoud Khalil, March 18, 2025, in New York City. (Adam Gray/Getty Images) "If you apply for a visa to enter the United States and be a student, and you tell us the reason you are coming to the United States is not just because you want to write op-eds, but because you want to participate in movements that are involved in doing things like vandalizing universities, harassing students, taking over buildings, creating a ruckus we're not going to give you a visa," Rubio said, adding, "Every time I find one of these lunatics, I take away their visa." Here's what we know and don't know about some of the more high-profile cases involving foreign students who have had their visas revoked, who have been detained, or who have self-deported after being targeted by federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Mahmoud Khalil Mahmoud Khalil, a 30-year-old Columbia University international affairs graduate student of Palestinian descent, was arrested on March 8 when ICE agents appeared at his student apartment building, despite him being a legal permanent U.S. resident in possession of a green card. Khalil is married to an American citizen, who is pregnant with their first child. The Trump administration accused Khalil, a Palestinian activist, of supporting Hamas and distributing "pro-Hamas propaganda," though it has provided no evidence to support that claim. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt claimed on March 11 that Khalil distributed "pro-Hamas propaganda fliers with the logo of Hamas," but declined to provide details. Ramzi Kassem, the director of CLEAR, a group representing Khalil, called Leavitt's claim "nonsense" and said there is "no truth to it whatsoever." During a pro-Palestinian student protest at Columbia University last spring, Khalil served as a negotiator when students bargained with school officials over a tent encampment they established on campus. During the days-long demonstration, some protestors also occupied the school's Hamilton Hall and defied orders to disperse, prompting the university to write a letter formally allowing the New York Police Department to enter the campus and break up the protest, during which time they made dozens of arrests. Khalil was not among those arrested, according to the NYPD, who confirmed to ABC News that "there are no arrests on file" for Khalil. "His one and only goal was to get Columbia University to divest from its complicity with Israeli government crimes in Gaza and the West Bank," Kassem said of Khalil's involvement in the protests. PHOTO: Mahmoud Khalil speaks to members of media about the Revolt for Rafah encampment at Columbia University during the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas in Gaza, in New York City, June 1, 2024. (Jeenah Moon/Reuters) Khalil is being held at an ICE detention facility in Louisiana and has filed a lawsuit challenging the federal government's attempt to deport him. He has not been charged with a crime, although the government alleges he intentionally misrepresented information on his green card application and therefore is inadmissible to the United States. According to recent court filings, the Trump administration said Khalil failed to disclose when applying for his green card last year that his employment by the Syria Office at the British Embassy in Beirut went "beyond 2022" and that he was a "political affairs officer" for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNWRA) from June to November 2023. PHOTO: Student protesters gather inside their encampment on the Columbia University campus, April 29, 2024, in New York. (Stefan Jeremiah/AP) In arresting Khalil, the government invoked a rarely used provision of immigration law that they said allows the secretary of state to revoke the legal status of people whose presence in the country could have "adverse foreign policy consequences." In a letter he released from the detention facility in which he's being held, Khalil described himself as a "political prisoner." "My arrest was a direct consequence of exercising my right to free speech as I advocated for a free Palestine and an end to the genocide in Gaza, which resumed in full force Monday night," Khalil wrote in the March 18 letter, referring to the renewed attacks on Gaza after the collapse of the ceasefire. A federal judge in New Jersey on April 2 retained Khalil's case, rejecting the governments request to move it to Louisiana or dismiss it altogether. The opinion, unless appealed by the government, would clear the way for the judge to decide the more substantive issues of Khalil's continued confinement. Khalil is scheduled to appear before an immigration judge for a removal hearing on April 8. Ranjani Srinivasan An urban planning doctoral student at Columbia University, Ranjani Srinivasan, a citizen of India who was in the country on an F-1 student visa, used the U.S. Customs and Border Protection home app to self-deport on March 11, according to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem. "Srinivasan was involved in activities supporting Hamas, a terrorist organization," Noem said in a March 14 statement, which did not include evidence to support the allegation against Srinivasan. "I am not a terrorist sympathizer so I just kind of find it absurd," Srinivasan said during a CBC interview March 19. "I'm a Ph.D. student who actually rarely left the office because I was busy working or grading my students' papers." In a March 22 statement, the group Student Workers of Columbia of which Srinivasan is a member, the union confirmed in response to an ABC News request for comment said Srinivasan was notified on March 6 that her student visa had been revoked and that on March 8, ICE agents went to her Columbia housing apartment seeking entry, allegedly without a warrant, but did not arrest or detain anyone. Srinivasan was subsequently informed by the university's International Students and Scholars Office that she was being disenrolled by the university and ordered to vacate her student housing, according to the Student Workers of Columbia statement. "With no housing or visa and a continued stream of threats from ICE to detain her, Ranjani made the difficult decision to leave the country for Canada," according to the statement. Srinivasan has not been charged with a crime. The Student Workers of Columbia has been circulating a petition asking Columbia to re-enroll Srinivasan and for the government to reinstate her visa. Leqaa Kordia A Palestinian from the West Bank, Leqaa Kordia was arrested on March 13 by the Department of Homeland Security. According to DHS, Kordia was arrested for allegedly overstaying her expired visa, which the agency said terminated on Jan. 26, 2022. In a March 14 statement, DHS said that Kordia's student visa was terminated for lack of class attendance. She was previously arrested in April 2024 for her alleged involvement in pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia, according to the DHS statement. Columbia has no record of this individual being registered as a current or former student at the University," a spokesperson for the university said in response to an ABC News request for comment. "It is a privilege to be granted a visa to live and study in the United States of America. When you advocate for violence and terrorism that privilege should be revoked, and you should not be in this country," DHS Secretary Noem said in a statement following Kordia's arrest. Multiple attempts to determine the current status of Kordia's case and whether she is currently being detained, including repeated ABC News inquiries to ICE and DHS, were not immediately successful. Yunseo Chung Yunseo Chung, a junior at Columbia University, filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration after ICE agents went to her residence on March 13 looking for her, one day after an ICE official signed an administrative arrest warrant for her, according to her lawsuit. According to her lawsuit, Chung was born in South Korea but is a lawful permanent U.S. resident who has lived in the United States since she was 7 years old. "This action challenges the government's shocking overreach in seeking to deport a college student, Plaintiff-Petitioner Yunseo Chung, who is a lawful permanent resident of this country, because of her protected free speech," according to Chung's lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. "The government's actions are an unprecedented and unjustifiable assault on First Amendment and other rights, one that cannot stand basic legal scrutiny." The lawsuit contends, "Simply put, immigration enforcement here, immigration detention and threatened deportation may not be used as a tool to punish noncitizen speakers who express political views disfavored by the current administration." According to her lawsuit, Chung has participated since 2023 in student protests on the Columbia campus related to Israel's military campaign in the Gaza Strip. On March 5, Chung was among a group of students arrested by the New York Police Department for holding a sit-in at an academic building at Barnard College, according to her lawsuit. She was given a desk appearance ticket accusing her of obstruction of governmental administration, her lawsuit claims. The Department of Homeland Security said in a March 25 statement that Chung had engaged in "concerning conduct" and cited her prior arrest during a protest at Barnard College, which DHS described as a "pro-Hamas" protest. "ICE HSI will investigate individuals engaged in activities in support of Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization," the DHS statement said. "Ms. Chung has felt moved to join efforts to advocate for Palestinian human rights," the lawsuit states, under a heading titled Ms. Chungs Exercise of Free Speech Rights in Support of Palestinians. "Ms. Chung has also felt compelled to criticize Columbia for its handling of student protests supporting Palestinian human rights, including the punitive measures imposed on certain students," according to the lawsuit. Chung's lawsuit also states that some opponents of pro-Palestinian protest activities "frequently mischaracterize" them as "inherently supportive of Hamas or terrorism and anti-Semitic." A federal judge in New York issued a temporary restraining order on March 25 blocking federal agents from detaining Chung. Rumeysa Ozturk A Ph.D. student at Tufts University in Massachusetts, Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish national with a valid F-1 visa, was arrested by ICE agents on March 25 near her home in the Boston suburb of Somerville, Massachusetts. In a statement to ABC News, a DHS spokesperson said: "Rumeysa Ozturk is a Turkish national and Tufts University graduate student, granted the privilege to be in this country on a visa. DHS and ICE investigations found Ozturk engaged in activities in support of Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization that relishes the killing of Americans." The DHS statement did not specify the activities in which Ozturk is alleged to have participated. "A visa is a privilege not a right. Glorifying and supporting terrorists who kill Americans is grounds for visa issuance to be terminated," the DHS statement further said. PHOTO: Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish doctoral student at Tufts University in Somerville, Massachusetts, poses in an undated photograph (Courtesy Of The Ozturk Family/via Reuters) On March 26, 2024, Ozturk, a Fulbright scholar, was one of four Tufts students who wrote an op-ed published in the school student newspaper, The Tufts Daily, asking the university to agree to resolutions passed by the Tufts Community Senate to divest from companies with direct or indirect ties to Israel. "Credible accusations against Israel include accounts of deliberate starvation and indiscriminate slaughter of Palestinian civilians and plausible genocide," the op-ed said, in part. It's unknown whether the editorial played a part in Ozturk's arrest. "Rumeysa has not been accused of committing any crime. It appears the only thing she is being targeted for is her right to free speech," Mahsa Khanbabai, an attorney representing Ozturk, said in a statement provided to ABC News. A statement in support of Ozturk, dated April 1 and signed by Tufts President Sunil Kumar, acknowledges the March 26 editorial, and further states that the university "has no information to support the allegations that [Ozturk] was engaged in activities at Tufts that warrant her arrest and detention," and that it "has no further information suggesting that she has acted in a manner that would constitute a violation of the University's understanding of the Immigration and Naturalization Act." Ozturk is currently listed in the ICE database as "in custody" and appears to be held at an ICE processing center in Basile, Louisiana. On March 25, a federal judge in Boston ruled that Ozturk cannot be deported until the judge determines whether the court has jurisdiction to decide whether Ozturk was lawfully taken into custody. PHOTO: In this image taken from security camera video, Rumeysa Ozturk, a 30-year-old doctoral student at Tufts University, is detained by Department of Homeland Security agents on a street in Sommerville, Mass., March 25, 2025. (via AP) Judge Denise Casper said in her ruling that Ozturk "shall not be removed from the United States until further Order by this Court." Following an April 3 hearing, Judge Casper did not issue a ruling and said she will first decide whether she has jurisdiction before other motions in the lawsuit can be considered. Alireza Doroudi Alireza Doroudi, an Iranian citizen and a doctoral student studying mechanical engineering at the University of Alabama, was arrested at his home on March 25. The Department of Homeland Security said Doroudis student visa was revoked and he was subsequently arrested because he "posed significant national security concerns." But Doroudi's attorney, David Rozas, told ABC News that he has "not been informed of any allegations concerning significant national security issues." Rozas said Doroudi has "not been arrested for any crime, nor has he participated in any anti-government protests." PHOTO: Alireza Doroudi is shown in this undated photo. (LinkedIn) Doroudi was initially held in a county jail in Alabama but has since been transferred to ICE's Jena-LaSalle Detention Facility in Louisiana, according to the ICE website. "He is legally present in the U.S., pursuing his American dream by working towards his doctorate in mechanical engineering," Rozas said. "He is also in the early stages of applying for an EB-1/Adjustment of Status as a researcher with extraordinary ability." Rozas said Doroudi is studying at the University of Alabama on active I-20/SEVIS status, referring to the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. Momodou Taal A Ph.D. student of Africana studies at Cornell University, Momodou Taal filed a federal lawsuit on March 15 seeking to block the enforcement of Trump executive orders that he feared could lead to his deportation. But six days after filing the lawsuit, the 31-year-old citizen of the U.K. and Gambia was asked to voluntarily surrender to ICE agents, according to his attorneys. In its court filing, the Department of Justice said Taal's student visa was revoked before he filed his lawsuit but ICE agents had trouble locating him. The revocation is based on Taal's alleged involvement in disruptive protests, disregarding university policies and creating a hostile environment for Jewish students, the government said. According to court records, Taal was temporarily suspended from Cornell for a second time last fall after a group of pro-Palestinian activists disrupted a campus career fair. He has limited access to the upstate New York campus as he continues his studies remotely, according to his attorneys. "If the First Amendment does not protect the right to attend a demonstration, what's left? Not much," said Taal's attorney, Eric Lee. On March 27, a federal judge denied Taal's bid to prevent his deportation and his challenge of two Trump executive orders that have been used to target other pro-Palestinian students. Taal announced on Monday that he has exited the United States and is "safe" in an undisclosed country. "Today I took the decision to leave the United States, free and with my head held high," Taal said in a social media post. While his lawyers planned to make another legal argument for a temporary restraining order, Taal wrote in his post: "Given what we have seen across the United States, I have lost faith that a favorable ruling from the courts would guarantee my personal safety and ability to express my beliefs." "I have lost faith I could walk the streets without being abducted. Weighing up these options, I took the decision to leave on my own terms," Taal's post continued. "This is of course not the outcome I had wanted going into this, but we are facing a government that has no respect for the judiciary or for the rule of law." Badar Khan Suri A visiting scholar from India and a researcher at Georgetown University, Badar Khan Suri was detained on March 17 outside his Washington, D.C.- area apartment. The Department of Homeland Security alleged that Suri was "actively spreading Hamas propaganda and promoting antisemitism on social media." The department also alleged he had close connections to a "known or suspected terrorist" who is a senior adviser to Hamas. Suri, who is married to Mapheze Saleh, a U.S. citizen of Palestinian descent, was sent to an ICE detention facility in Louisiana, according to his attorney. PHOTO: Badar Khan Suri (Georgetown University) A lawsuit filed by Suri's attorneys said the Trump administration appeared to be targeting the Georgetown University fellow due to his wife's identity as a Palestinian and her constitutionally protected speech. "This was done pursuant to a policy to retaliate against and punish noncitizens like Mr. Suri solely for their family ties to those who may have either expressed criticism of U.S. foreign policy as it relates to Israel," attorneys representing Suri said in a complaint. In a sworn declaration filed March 20 in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Mapheze Saleh said that following the Oct. 2023 attack by Hamas on Israel, she "shared posts on a daily basis" about subsequent events in Gaza, "including posts that expressed sorrow for the deaths of Gazan people." Because of this, Saleh said, and because her father previously served in the government of Gaza until 2010, "multiple articles were published about me and my family, and eventually about my husband. A website claimed falsely that my husband and I have 'ties to Hamas.'" Nermeen Arastu, one of Suri's attorneys, told ABC News that Suri's detainment happened because "President Trump wants to silence anyone he suspects to hold a political opinion contrary to his." Suri has not been accused of a crime, his lawyers said. Georgetown University said Suri was granted a visa to enter the United States to continue his doctoral research on peacebuilding in Iraq and Afghanistan. ABC News' Ely Brown, Lucien Bruggeman, Nadine El-Bawab, Armando Garcia, James Hill and Laura Romero contributed to this report. What we know about the foreign college students targeted for deportation originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Portrait of cricketer Samit Patel GRAY, Maine (AP) A passenger in a car in Maine fatally shot his mother before shooting at passing vehicles, killing another motorist and injuring two others, then died by suicide, state police said Thursday. The shootings happened in the central Maine town of Sabattus late Wednesday afternoon, police said. The 29-year-old shooter was a passenger in a vehicle driven by his mother, Christine Smith, 47, of Sabattus, police said in a news release. The shootings happened in the central Maine town of Sabattus late Wednesday afternoon. AP The shooter, James Davis III of Sabattus, shot and killed Smith and exited the vehicle after it came to a stop, at which point he started shooting at passing vehicles, police said. The shootings killed Katherine Williams, 53, of Sabattus, and injured Tyson Turner, 19, of Jay, and David Wilson, 35, of Hartford, police said. Williams was the sole occupant of her vehicle, police said. Williams, who went by Kay, was the kitchen manager at two schools in Litchfield, where she had a remarkable ability to build strong connections with students and staff, Superintendent Katherine Grondin said in an email. Davis III shot and killed Smith and exited the vehicle after it came to a stop. AP Her kindness and dedication made a lasting impact on our school community, and she will be deeply missed, Grondin said. Our hearts go out to her family as they navigate this loss. It has been a difficult day for all of us as we mourn the passing of a valued and beloved member of our school family. Davis shot and killed himself after the shootings, police said. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. Williams was brought to Central Maine Medical Center after the shooting and pronounced dead, police said. Turner and Wilson were brought to Central Maine Medical Center and are expected to survive, police said. They were traveling in separate cars and were the sole occupants of their vehicles, they said. Davis shot and killed himself after the shootings, police said. AP Police said the investigation was continuing and that they planned to release more information later. They did not say if they had determined a motive for the shootings. The three deceased individuals were transported to the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta where autopsies will be performed, said Shannon Moss, a spokesperson for Maine State Police. Numerous police agencies assisted at the scene of the shootings Wednesday night, police said. A section of road in the area was closed for a time during the investigation and police asked the public to avoid the scene. By Devjyot Ghoshal and Panu Wongcha-um BANGKOK (Reuters) -Myanmar's ostracised junta leader met the prime ministers of India and Thailand during a regional summit in Bangkok on Friday, a week after an earthquake devastated parts of his impoverished, war-torn nation, killing more than 3,100 people. Shunned by most world leaders since leading a 2021 coup that overthrew an elected government, Min Aung Hlaing's rare foreign trip exploits a window opened by the earthquake to ramp up diplomacy. On the sidelines of the BIMSTEC summit, Min Aung Hlaing had two-way meetings with Thai premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with recovery from the quake a common topic. With a protracted civil war ravaging Myanmar since the coup, Modi called for an ongoing post-earthquake ceasefire in the country of 55 million people to be made permanent, an Indian foreign ministry spokesman said. "Political resolution to the conflict is the only way forward, starting with inclusive and credible elections," spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said in a post on X. Myanmar's junta announced a temporary ceasefire on Wednesday till April 22 in operations against armed opponents, reflecting moves by a major rebel alliance and a shadow government that includes parts of the previous administration. Before the quake, Myanmar's junta had been pushing ahead with a plan to hold a general election in December, though critics have derided this as a sham to keep the generals in power through proxies. "Min Aung Hlaing's recent state visits to China and Russia have created new incentives for India to dial up its own engagement," Singapore-based analyst Angshuman Choudhury said. "Moreover, under Modi, India has pitched itself as a humanitarian first responder in the region so post-earthquake disaster relief becomes an easy pivot for a direct meeting." The junta leader's discussions with the Thai prime minister included disaster prevention and transnational crime, Thai officials said. 'TRAGIC MOMENT' The death toll from last Friday's 7.7-magnitude earthquake, one of the strongest to rock the Southeast Asian nation in a century, climbed to 3,145, with more than 4,500 injured and more than 200 still missing, the ruling junta said. "The earthquake has supercharged the suffering, with the monsoon season just around the corner," U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters on Thursday, referring to the civil strife unleashed by the 2021 coup. "I appeal for every effort to transform this tragic moment into an opportunity for the people of Myanmar." United Nations aid chief Tom Fletcher is set to arrive in Myanmar on Friday, followed by a visit by Julie Bishop, the United Nations' special envoy for the country. Thailand's foreign ministry said the Thai and Malaysian foreign ministers would visit Myanmar on Saturday. Min Aung Hlaing, who led an entourage of Myanmar officials, also met Nepal's prime minister and attended a dinner with the heads of BIMSTEC on Thursday, ahead of the summit which is focused on technical and economic matters. BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, groups Thailand, Myanmar, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan. At the summit, Thai premier Paetongtarn urged the group to forge a free trade agreement and to cooperate on constructing a highway connecting Thailand, Myanmar and India, the Thai government said. 'LOGISTICAL CHALLENGES' Myanmar's neighbours, such as China, India and Southeast Asian nations are among those that dispatched relief supplies and rescuers to aid the recovery effort in quake-hit areas home to about 28 million people over the past week. Extreme heat and forecast heavy rain could cause disease outbreaks among earthquake survivors camping in the open, as the risk of cholera grows in such areas, namely Mandalay, Sagaing and the capital of Naypyitaw. "Response efforts still face significant logistical challenges ... hampering the relief response," the World Food Programme said on Thursday. Hurdles range from debris and damaged roads and facilities to telecoms disruption, it said. Even before last Friday's quake, millions had suffered in Myanmar's widening civil war, triggered by the coup that ousted the government of Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. It has decimated the mainly agrarian economy, driven more than 3.5 million people from their homes and crippled essential services such as healthcare. (Reporting by Bangkok Bureau; Additional reporting by Shoon Naing and Shivam Patel; Writing by Devjyot Ghoshal; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Gareth Jones) More than 250 passengers on a Virgin Atlantic flight from London to Mumbai reached India on Friday evening after being stranded at a remote military airport in Turkey for nearly 40 hours, sparking distress calls on social media. The passengers have called out the airline for keeping them in inhumane and awful situations for two days at an airport with limited facilities and without adequate food and essential supplies. Virgin Atlantic flight VS358 departed Londons Heathrow airport at 11.40am BST on 2 April and was scheduled to land in Mumbai at 8.10pm BST. However, the plane made an unscheduled landing at the Diyarbakr airport in Turkey at around 5pm BST due to a medical emergency onboard. The VS358 flight from London Heathrow to Mumbai on 2nd April was cancelled due to an urgent medical diversion to Diyarbakir airport in Turkey and subsequent technical inspections required," Virgin Atlantic said. The safety and security of our customers and crew is always our top priority and we apologise for the inconvenience caused. Over 300 Indians and British citizens are held trapped in Turkey in an awful situation. @VirginAtlantic Doing nothing to help the people, 1 toilet for 300 people and held in a confined space for over 15 hours. @VirginAtlantic staff nowhere to be seen. My family is caught up. pic.twitter.com/aANXY5l07I Hanuman Dass (@HanumanDassGD) April 3, 2025 After the emergency landing, the Airbus A350-1000 aircraft encountered a technical issue as it had made a "hard landing" and was deemed unfit to fly. The passengers stranded at the airport said they were not given any information about completing their journey to India. The airline said the flight would resume its onward journey to Mumbai from Diyarbakr at 10am BST on Friday. With the necessary technical approvals now in place, we will continue flight VS1358 from Diyarbakr Airport at approximately 12:00 local time on Friday 4th April, arriving in Mumbai at approximately 20:30 local, it said. Officials later confirmed the flight landed in Mumbai on late Friday evening. Many passengers expressed frustration and distress over the situation on social media and said they were being confined to a restricted area of the airport with limited facilities. My family along with 250+ passengers have been inhumanely treated by @virginatlantic, a passenger named Hanuman Dass said on X. It's now been 30 hours since @VirginAtlantic flight left London and we are appalled at the lack of humanity and treatment of #Indian and #British citizens. My wife and kids have one pillow between 3 people and no blankets and have been sat in a confined space with 300 people. Another passenger said there was just one toilet for hundreds of people, no adequate food and no supplies like blankets or pillows. Preeti Sharma Menon, a politician from Mumbai who was on the flight, said there were pregnant women and elderly people among the stranded passengers. Dear Ms. @sherilynfernan6, Embassy of India, Ankara is in continuous contact with Diyarbakir Airport Directorate and related authorities. All of possible coordination and efforts are being made to take care of the stranded passengers. IndiaInTurkiye (@IndiaInTurkiye) April 3, 2025 "Its been 24 hours and not a single airline representative has met the passengers, she said. They have barely any food, one toilet amongst 275 pax, phones running out of batteries as they dont have Turkish adapters. There are babies, pregnant women, diabetics and old people in this ordeal. She aded that pressure from passengers, Indian authorities and media finally got Virgin Atlantic officials to "rescue" passengers stranded. Later, on Thursday night, she said they were being moved to a hotel. Virgin Atlantic said the majority of our customers were provided with overnight hotel accommodation ahead of their onward journey today. According to news outlet News18, Virgin Atlantic arranged hotel accommodations for passengers and stated it was working toward a solution to allow customers to continue their journey to Mumbai on 4 April. Wed like to sincerely apologise for the delay and any inconvenience caused. The Indian embassy in Turkey said it was in touch with the airline, the Diyarbakir airport directorate and the Turkish foreign ministry. "Through the missions coordination, appropriate care is being extended to the passengers, the embassy said on X. We are in discussion with the related authorities for the early resolution of the issue and the arrangement of an alternate flight to Mumbai for the stranded passengers." By Guy Faulconbridge MOSCOW (Reuters) - While U.S. President Donald Trump announced tariffs on allies and foes including Europe, India, Japan and China, some of the world's most heavily sanctioned countries - Russia, Belarus, Cuba and North Korea - avoided being singled out for special punitive treatment. With the world gripped by trade war, Trump imposed a 10% tariff on most goods imported to the United States. China, the biggest supplier of goods to the U.S., now faces a 54% tariff on all exports to the world's biggest consumer. "In the face of unrelenting economic warfare, the United States can no longer continue with a policy of unilateral economic surrender," Trump said as he presented the tariffs. The White House released a list of comments from people praising his tariffs. They said ordinary American workers would benefit after years of what they described as abuse from trading partners such as China. Trump said he would impose a 10% baseline tariff on all imports to the United States and higher duties on dozens of countries. Russia, Cuba and North Korea did not appear on the list of countries facing higher 'reciprocal' tariffs released by the White House. U.S. intelligence agencies said in their annual threat assessment that China, Russia, Iran and North Korea were the biggest potential nation-state threats to the United States and Trump had threatened Moscow with new trade measures. Asked why Russia was not on the list, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Fox News that the United States did not trade with Russia and Belarus and that they were under sanctions. Goods trade between Russia and the United States was $3.5 billion last year, according to U.S. figures. In 2021, the year before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it was $36 billion. FUTURE UNCLEAR White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Axios that Russia was left off because there was no meaningful trade with it, and Cuba, Belarus and North Korea were not included because existing tariffs and sanctions on them were already so high. Russia, which is under more than 28,595 different Western sanctions, has classified trade data since the start of the war. U.S. goods imports from Russia totaled $3.0 billion in 2024, down 34.2 percent from 2023, according to the office of the U.S. Trade Representative. For Russia, though, the biggest risk is a potential slowdown in global demand from the wider tariff war - which could hit the price of oil. The Russian central bank warned officials earlier this year that the United States and OPEC have the capacity to flood the oil market and cause a repeat of the prolonged price collapse of the 1980s - which contributed to the fall of the Soviet Union. On Sunday, Trump told NBC News he was very angry after President Vladimir Putin criticised the credibility of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, and the U.S. president suggested he could impose secondary tariffs of 25%-50% on buyers of Russian oil. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge in Moscow and Christian Lowe in Kyiv; editing by Philippa Fletcher) The stock market closed with a bloodbath on Friday as the Dow Jones lost 2,231 points and the S&P 500 dropped 6 percent as investors are spooked about the impact of President Donald Trumps tariff plan. This marks the worst week for the stock market since 2020, and only the fourth time in history that the Dow lost 2,000 points in a single day. Market-wide losses over the last two days now total a record-breaking $6.4 trillion, according to the Wall Street Journal. Friday had already started badly for the Dow when it lost 1,000 points at the opening. The plunge just continued from there. The NASDAQ didnt do better and ended the day with a loss of 962 points. That comes after the NASDAQ lost more than 1,000 points on Thursday during a historically bad day. The Dow now nears correction territory - which is when a market loses 10 percent of value from its high. Wall Street is reactively negatively as concerns over Trumps tariffs continue to fuel recession fears. On Wednesday, the President announced sweeping tariffs on nearly every nation of at least 10 percent. Trump has said it's needed so there is fairness for American manufacturers. But, experts have warned that the tariffs could spark an economic downturn. The stock market suffered a massive two-day drop as Wall Street feared the impact of President Donald Trumps tariff plan (AFP via Getty Images) Analysts say the bull market which occurs when prices are rising and investor optimism is high is over. The bull market is dead, and it was destroyed by ideologues and self-inflicted wounds, Emily Bowersock Hill, CEO and founding partner at Bowersock Capital Partners, told CNBC. While the market may be close to the bottom in the short-term, we are concerned about the impact of a global trade-war on long-term economic growth. Another expert, described the tariffs as causing clocks to go back in time. "The economic pain that will be brought by these tariffs [is] hard to describe and can essentially take the U.S. tech industry back a decade in the process while China steamrolls ahead," Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities said in a report, according to CBS News. Former Trump official, and now critic, Anthony Scaramucci blasted some of the coverage by conservative media of the historic drop. Imagine President Harris taking $10 trillion out of the global stock markets in the first 80 days of her residency what the Fox News people would be doing right now!!!! he wrote on X. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said Friday that Trumps tariffs are likely to raise inflation and slow economic growth. Powell said he believes the economy is currently solid but empathizes with those feeling uncertain in the face of the recent mark drops. I realize that the uncertainty is high, he said. I understand the uncertainty that's weighing on people. JPMorgans Chief Economist Bruce Kasman said the investment bank now sees a 60 percent chance of the global economy entering recession in 2025, up from 40 percent. A five-day graph of the Dow Jones Industrial Average shows steep losses as the market closed Friday after Trump's tariff announcement (Google) A five-day graph of the NASDAQ Composite shows steep losses and historic two-day drop (Google) Trump downplayed the impact his plan was having on the market. MY POLICIES WILL NEVER CHANGE, he wrote on Truth Social. ONLY THE WEAK WILL FAIL! Secretary of State Marco Rubio similarly defended the tariffs, claiming Friday hes confident the markets will bounce back. Businesses around the world, including in trade and global trade, they just need to know what the rules are, Rubio said from a NATO meeting in Brussels. Once they know what the rules are, they will adjust to those rules. I dont think its fair to say economies are crashing, he continued. Markets are crashing because markets are based on the stock value of companies who today are embedded in modes of production that are bad for the United States. President Trump announcing new tariffs on April 2. (Mark Schiefelbein/AP) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) President Trumps sweeping new tariffs apply to nearly every nation and territory in the world, from economic superpowers to barely-populated islands with little economic activity. Not all countries face the same level of tariffs. Trump set a minimum level of 10% for everyone, but many face significantly higher rates. To decide who should pay more, his administration used a remarkably simple formula. It divided a countrys trade deficit (how much more we buy from them than they buy from us) by the value of its exports to the United States., then cut that number in half to set the new tariff rate. While that approach was surely more efficient than the exacting task of doing a deep dive into the economic relationship the U.S. has with nearly 200 individual countries, it did result in some head-scratching decisions that dont appear to fit within Trumps stated goal of fighting back against nations he believes are taking advantage of America. These are a few of the little-known, remote and economically insignificant places that were slapped with high tariff rates. Norfolk Island OpenStreetMaps, Getty Images (OpenStreetMaps, Getty Images) Norfolk Island is an Australian territory in the Pacific Ocean between New Zealand and New Caledonia. The tiny island is less than 14 square miles in size and is home to about 2,000 people. The islands economy is based largely on tourism and exports less than $1 million in goods annually. Still, Trump imposed a 29% tariff on items coming from Norfolk Island. New reporting from the Guardian suggests that the elevated rate may be the result of mislabeled shipments of goods that were actually sent to the U.S. from the county of Norfolk in England or delivered to ports in Norfolk, Va. A spokesperson for the territorys local government told an Australian news station that they may only have to pay the 10% tariff applied to the rest of Australia. The issue is largely academic, however, because the island has no known exports to the U.S. Heard Island and McDonald Islands OpenStreetMaps, Matt Curnock/Australian Antarctic Division/AFP (OpenStreetMaps, Matt Curnock/Australian Antarctic Division/AFP) These small, uninhabited islands are also Australian territories, though they are closer to Antarctica than they are to any part of their home country. Named after a pair of American explorers who discovered them, the islands are home to large populations of birds, seals, penguins but zero humans, other than scientists who occasionally travel there for research. And yet, a complete absence of any international trade was not enough to spare them from Trumps 10% baseline tariffs. Like Norfolk Island, Heard and McDonald Islands may have also been targeted because of mislabeled shipments that originated in Europe. Saint Pierre and Miquelon OpenStreetMaps, Chantal Briand/AFP via Getty Images (OpenStreetMaps, Chantal Briand/AFP via Getty Images) This French territory, made up of a small string of islands off of Canadas northeast coast, was hit with a whopping 50% tariff, tied for the highest rate of anywhere on Earth. Home to just over 5,000 people, the islands are described by the CIA World Factbook as the sole remaining vestige of France's once vast North American possessions. Saint Pierre and Miquelon do export a few million dollars worth of shellfish annually, but very little of that if any makes its way to the U.S. in most years. There is one major exception, though. In July of 2024, the territory sent $3.4 million in goods to America potentially in a single transaction. While that was an extraordinary historical outlier, it still meant that the islands had a huge trade imbalance with the U.S. last year, which is likely the reason that they were hit with such a lofty tariff rate. Lesotho OpenStreetMaps, Brian Otieno/Getty Images (OpenStreetMaps, Brian Otieno/Getty Images) The only other country facing a 50% tariff is Lesotho, a small nation that is completely encircled by South Africa. Unlike some of the tiny territories on this list, Lesotho does have a substantial population of 2.2 million people. Trumps tariffs are likely to hit Lesotho particularly hard because its economy is heavily reliant on exports to the U.S. Last year, it sent more than $200 million in goods, mostly textiles, to the U.S., a figure that accounts for one tenth of its national gross domestic product. The countrys finance minister called the tariffs shocking and said its government is attempting to find out why they were hit with such an abnormally steep rate. Nauru OpenStreetMaps, Mike Leyral/AFP via Getty Images (OpenStreetMaps, Mike Leyral/AFP via Getty Images) This island in a remote area of the South Pacific is the third-smallest nation on Earth with just 8 square miles of territory. It also has the second-smallest economy in the world in terms of gross domestic product. Frozen fish makes up more than 90% of Naurus annual exports, though little of that makes its way to America. But because the impoverished island buys even less from the United States, it was stuck with a 30% tariff by Trump. Liechtenstein OpenStreetMaps, Getty Images (OpenStreetMaps/Getty Images) This small European nation tucked between Switzerland and Austria is home to just 40,000 people. The Embassy of Liechtenstein describes the country as having an export-oriented economy and lists the U.S. as its largest overseas trading partner. It now faces a 37% tariff, nearly double the rate that was imposed on the European Union as a whole. Liechtenstein is one of the worlds leading manufacturers of a unique array of products, including microphones, dentistry equipment and components for steering columns used by several American car brands. On Thursday, its government expressed concern over the tariffs during an emergency meeting in which leaders discussed how to react to the economic risk the nation now faces. A judge in the United Kingdom has ordered President Trump to pay more than $820,000 in legal fees to the company representing former British spy Christopher Steele after he unsuccessfully sued over a dossier. In 2022, Trump filed a claim against Orbis Business Intelligence, a firm founded by Steele, a former MI6 agent who published a 35-page dossier that featured claims about Trump ahead of the 2016 election. Trump argued the company violated British data protection laws and that he suffered a personal and reputational damage because of the claims. However, in 2024, London Judge Karen Steyn tossed out the case because there are no compelling reasons to allow the case to go to trial. The dossier claimed Trump had been compromised by Russias security service and said the now-president took part in sex parties in Saint Petersburg, The Associated Press reported. Steyn has now ordered Trump to pay the costs for Orbiss lawyers, which the president said has been set outrageously high. Trump failed to pay the first installment, and a hearing was set to decide for him to pay the full bill. Judge Jason Rowley said Trump now must pay more than $820,000 with interest accruing daily at 12 percent, the AP reported. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Trump displays a chart showing tariffs placed on other nations as he speaks at the White House on Wednesday. (Washington Post via Getty Images) As with many of his political positions, President Trumps extraordinary new tariffs are based on the presumption that the United States is being treated unfairly by the rest of the world. He proclaims his tariffs are merely reciprocal. They do it to us, and we do it to them, Trump said. Very simple. But are the new levies on foreign goods sold in the U.S. truly reciprocal"? No, not by any commonly agreed definition of the term. A reciprocal tariff is one that is equal to the tariff rate charged on our exports to them, Brad DeLong, a professor of economics at UC Berkeley, said via email. Vietnams tariff on our exports . . . averages 10%. That is not the 46% rate that Trump has imposed on Vietnam. Read more:Trump says tariffs are 'going very well' as markets plummet, countries aim to retaliate The Trump administration tariffs are not even based on the tariffs other countries impose. Instead, they are derived using a novel calculation that focuses on Americas trade deficits with other nations. And the levies Trump said he intends to impose on goods will often be much higher than the ones they charge on American imports. Heres how the Trump administration calculated the new tariffs: It took the U.S. trade deficit with individual trading partners, then divided it by U.S. imports from that partner. It then divided that total in half. Thus, Trump claims that his tariffs are not only reciprocal but "discounted." Trump's acknowledgment that the calculations were not based on other nations' tariffs alone is demonstrated in one of his social media posts. A chart laying out the new tariffs contends the charges by other nations include currency manipulation and trade barriers. To Trump, the new duties are "reciprocal" because they respond to another country's actions, even if the new U.S. tariffs are much higher. What the post does not acknowledge is that a substantial portion of the advantage other nations have in trade is tied to lower operating costs, particularly the lower wages and benefits that their workers earn, which are unrelated to tariffs. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick insisted that the charges will pay dividends in the long run, as foreign companies stung by the tariffs decide to move their factories to the U.S. "Global governments have backed taking our factories away from us," Lutnick told Newsmax. "But what you're going to see is the most modern factories of the world come back here." Trump has insisted that by effectively raising taxes on imports from other countries, he will help drive down Americas trade deficit. Most economists polled on that notion aren't buying it. Fifty-eight percent of the economists surveyed by the Kent A. Clark Center for Global Markets at the University of Chicago disagreed with the claim that Americas trade deficit would grow smaller because of the higher tariffs. Forty-one percent said they were unsure. Only 1% of economists said they thought the Trump move would improve Americas balance of trade. Read more:Car buyers in Southern California scramble to beat 25% auto tariffs Trumps view of international trade is also overly simplistic in that it attends only to the material goods the U.S. sells overseas and how much other nations sell in the U.S. without accounting for professional services that America sells in other countries, said Jesse Rothstein, another UC Berkeley economist. With many of these countries, and generally with the world, we have a trade surplus when it comes to services, Rothstein said. So they send us cheap clothing and we send them accounting services. Its a good deal. We would much rather be getting paid as accountants than getting paid as garment workers. 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. National Cancer Institute | Unsplash (The Center Square) People with disabilities would no longer be overtaxed for adaptive vehicle equipment with a bill from Illinois state Sen. Don DeWitte, R-St. Charles. According to Illinois statute, consumers should pay a 1% tax on medically-required equipment and the customary 6.25% or more on the rest of the vehicle. DeWitte told members of the Illinois Senate Revenue Committee Thursday that the law is applied when people add the equipment after they receive their vehicle, but they get charged 6.25% or more on the equipment when it comes with the car from the factory. Senate Bill 253 will remove that ambiguity and make clear that, regardless of when a person with a disability modifies and purchases their vehicle, the lower sales tax rate will still apply for the medically-required equipment, DeWitte said. Bill Bogdan, disability liaison for the Illinois Secretary of State, told the committee that the higher tax rate costs disabled consumers hundreds or even thousands of dollars. I think this will obviously make it easier for people with disabilities in Illinois who purchase the adaptive vehicles since the adaptive equipment is very expensive, Bogdan said. Bogdan said people in other parts of the Midwest pay less for adaptive equipment, including hand controls needed for driving and wheelchair ramps or lifts. Many states, including Indiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Missouri, dont even charge sales tax on adaptive equipment. Its completely exempt, Bodgan said. Bogdan urged lawmakers to support Senate Bill 253. If the bill becomes law, the amendment to the tax code would take effect on July 1. FILE - This undated photo provided by the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts in December 2024 shows North Carolina Court of Appeals Judge Jefferson Griffin. (North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts via AP, File) RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) A North Carolina appeals court sided Friday with the trailing Republican candidate in an extremely close state Supreme Court election, a ruling that could flip the result of the nations only 2024 race that is still undecided. In a 2-1 decision with registered Republican judges composing the majority, a panel of the intermediate-level Court of Appeals ruled that ballots likely tens of thousands of them were wrongly allowed in the tally. But the ruling, if upheld, would give most of those voters a three-week window to provide additional information for their choices to count, or see the ballots get removed. The disputed ballots are believed to favor Democratic Associate Justice Allison Riggs, who, after two recounts, held a 734-vote lead over Republican Jefferson Griffin in their race, which saw over 5.5 million ballots cast. The judges on Friday found that the State Board of Elections got it wrong in December when it dismissed Griffin's election protests. Riggs quickly announced an appeal of the decision that should soon reach the state Supreme Court. Griffin's postelection protests challenged over 65,000 ballots in three different categories. Griffin currently serves on the Court of Appeals and had recused himself from the case deliberations within the court, where some of his colleagues ruled favoring him. Friday's prevailing opinion declares that the board should have found that ballots from within each of the categories shouldnt be counted because they failed to comply with state law or the state constitution. The decision also reverses decisions of a trial judge who in February upheld the boards actions. Free elections under ... the North Carolina Constitution include the right to an accurate counting of votes, said the opinion backed by Judges John Tyson and Fred Gore. Griffin has a legal right to inquire into this outcome through the statutorily-enacted and postelection procedures available to him. The largest category of ballots challenged were cast by individuals whose registration records lacked a drivers license number or last four digits of a Social Security number. The information has been required of registrants since 2004, but Griffins attorneys argue the board failed to carry out the requirement properly for years. Another category came from military or overseas voters who did not provide copies of photo identification or ID exception forms with their ballots. Photo voter ID is otherwise required in North Carolina. For these two categories, the judges ultimately directed the state board to tell county election officials to notify the voters and give them 15 business days to provide missing information or photo identification. If provided in time and verified, then those ballots would still count, the opinion reads. In the third category involving potentially hundreds of overseas voters who have never lived in the U.S. their ballots cannot be counted because they're ineligible under state residency laws, according to Tyson and Gore. Court of Appeals Judge Toby Hampson, a registered Democrat on the panel writing a dissenting opinion, said that Griffin hadnt identified a single voter who was ineligible to vote in the November elections under the rules governing the election. Lawyers for Riggs and the board have said the ballots were cast lawfully, and state laws and rules that have been applied to elections for years cant be altered retroactively. To accept Griffin's "indiscriminate efforts to call into doubt the votes of tens of thousands of otherwise eligible voters, without any showing any challenged voter was disqualified under existing law from voting is to elevate speculation and surmise over evidence and reason, Hampson wrote. Griffins attorneys have said previously their client believes he'll win if the challenged unlawful ballots are excluded. Riggs' allies have pointed out that the ballots challenged on the ID mandate, for example, largely came from Democratic-leaning counties. It's unclear how many voters will attempt to participate in the cure process. In a prepared statement, Griffin's campaign committee praised Friday's decision, saying we stand by the process of allowing the State Board a second chance to do its job and ensure that only eligible voters cast ballots in our elections. The eight-year term on the highest court in the ninth-largest state was supposed to begin in January. Riggs has meanwhile remained serving in her seat. Shes also recused herself from preliminary deliberations in the protests that have already been heard by the Supreme Court. Riggs said Fridays ruling was a deeply misinformed decision that threatens to disenfranchise more than 65,000 lawful voters and sets a dangerous precedent, allowing disappointed politicians to thwart the will of the people. Five of the six remaining justices on the Supreme Court are registered Republicans. Lawyers for Riggs and the board also have already signaled they will take the matter to federal court if necessary. The director of the National Security Agency, Air Force Gen. Timothy Haugh, reportedly was fired Thursday from his post as the head of the agency. Haughs removal as director of the NSA, the nations primary cyber espionage and electronic eavesdropping agency, comes on the same day at least three White House National Security Council staffers reportedly also were shown the door. The ousted NSA directors civilian deputy, Wendy Noble, was also let go Thursday, according to the Washington Post, citing current and former US officials. National Security Agency Director Timothy Haugh attends a House Intelligence Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on March 26, 2025. REUTERS Noble was reassigned to a role within the Pentagons Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence, according to the outlet. The reason behind the NSA shakeup is unknown, the US officials told the outlet. Haugh, who also serves as the Pentagons Cyber Command chief, had led the NSA since February 2024. Its unclear if the Air Force general will remain at his Cyber Command post following his removal from the Fort Meade, Md.-based spy agency. Department of Government Efficiency chief Elon Musk was hosted by Haugh at NSA headquarters just last month, his first known visit to a US intelligence agency. The ousted NSA directors civilian deputy, Wendy Noble, was also let go Thursday. National Security Agency Lt. Gen. William J. Hartmann, Haughs deputy at Cyber Command, will take over as acting director of the NSA, according to the Washington Post. Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), the ranking member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, slammed Haughs dismissal. General Haugh has served our country in uniform, with honor and distinction, for more than 30 years. At a time when the United States is facing unprecedented cyber threats, as the Salt Typhoon cyberattack from China has so clearly underscored, how does firing him make Americans any safer? Warner wrote on X. The senator also took aim at President Trump referencing reports that the firings of National Security Council staffers came shortly after he took a meeting with right-wing influencer Laura Loomer. It is astonishing that President Trump would fire the nonpartisan, experienced leader of the NSA while still failing to hold any member of his team accountable for leaking classified information on a commercial messaging app even as he apparently takes staffing direction on national security from a discredited conspiracy theorist in the Oval Office, Warner wrote in a separate post. Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) slammed Haughs dismissal, taking aim at President Trump. REUTERS Trump acknowledged his meeting with Loomer on Thursday but denied that his conversation with her prompted the National Security Council firings. When reached for comment, the NSA referred The Post to the Pentagon, which did not immediately respond to a message. The White House also did not respond to a request for comment on Haughs firing. Former President Barack Obama said he is "deeply concerned" with some of the actions that President Donald Trump and his administration have taken and seemed to call out the Republican Party for not pushing back on them. Obama rebuked Trump without explicitly naming him over the federal government's threats against universities and students who exercise free speech, its targeting of law firms, and the new tariffs imposed on foreign countries. "I dont think what we just witnessed in terms of economic policy and tariffs is going to be good for America, but thats a specific policy," Obama said in his remarks at Hamilton College in New York. "Im more deeply concerned with a federal government that threatens universities if they dont give up students who are exercising their right to free speech," he said. Obama said he's more troubled by a White House that takes aim at law firms that represent ideas or parties that its occupants disagree with, and that the administration has punished media outlets. Trump has signed executive orders penalizing major law firms and lawyers, prompting outrage within the legal community. The White House has also barred The Associated Press from coverage over its refusal to refer to the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. "That kind of behavior is contrary to the basic compact we have as Americans," he said. Obama suggested that Republicans would be outraged if he had done similar things as president. "Imagine if I had pulled Fox News credentials from the White House press corps," he said, adding, Its unimaginable that the same parties that are silent now would have tolerated behavior like that from me or a whole bunch of my predecessors." He added, "I say this not on a partisan basis. This has to do with something more precious, which is who are we as a country and what values do we stand for?" His final message during his speech was that "history zigs and zags and there are times of conflict and there are times of stupidity and there are times of danger," but he wants people to remain resilient. "Dont get discouraged," he said. "I know its a little crazy right now, but were going to be OK." Former Vice President Kamala Harris also spoke out against the Trump administration at the Leading Women Defined Summit in California on Thursday. She said that the country is witnessing "progress being rolled back" and a "sense of fear" taking hold nationwide. "We are seeing those who are capitulating to clearly unconstitutional threats," she said. "And these are the things that we are witnessing each day in these last few months in our country. And it understandably creates a great sense of fear." Harris, who has kept a low profile since losing to Trump in November's presidential election, said that "fear has a way of being contagious" but that "courage is also contagious." The White House didn't immediately respond to a request for comment about their remarks. An Ohio substitute teacher was busted for allegedly offering a high school student $2,000 to kill her estranged husband in a bizarre murder-for-hire plot that was foiled by the teens mother. Stephanie Demetrius, 44, was arrested Wednesday on first-degree conspiracy after the students mom discovered texts between her son and the sub at Academy for Urban Scholars High School discussing the lethal plan and contacted the police, according to court documents obtained by WSYX. This particular teacher was attempting to groom this young person into committing murder, Sgt. James Fuqua, with the Columbus Division of Police, told the outlet. Ohio substitute teacher Stephanie Demetrius is accused of offering a high school student $2,000 to kill her estranged husband. NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images Without their help, some of this might not have come to light. This was a situation where a parent was able to capture things inside this young persons phone and contact authorities. Police said the deranged educator approached the student at the Columbus school on March 26 and offered him the cash bounty to kill her soon-to-be ex-husband, giving the teen $250 as a down payment. A phone call was then recorded between Demetrius and her would-be killer in which the sub confirmed the remainder of the payment, stating she owed an additional 15, the outlet reported. The teacher, who was in the process of divorcing her husband, whom she married in 2004, also told the student her estranged spouse worked from home and noted when her kids would be out of the house. When asked if the neighbors would hear the gunfire, she advised that they dont care about the neighbors, court documents obtained by The Columbus Dispatch stated. Demetrius is being held on a $150,000 bond. ABC The mother of four appeared in Franklin County Municipal Court Thursday morning, where her public defender denied the allegations and blasted the claims as a fabrication, the outlet reported. Prosecutor Parker Schwartz said Demetrius exhibited possessive and controlling behavior, citing previous homicidal threats levied against her husband that resulted in him obtaining a protection order. Demetrius is being held on a $150,000 bond and is prohibited from having any contact with her husband and the minor involved in the case, according to reports. She is due back in court for a preliminary hearing on April 11. The Academy for Urban Scholars High School did not immediately respond to The Posts request for comment. A secretive quasi-governmental condo blacklist is growing exponentially, making it difficult for owners in scores of troubled buildings in Miami and South Florida to sell or get loans for repairs even as their associations face a fiscal and time crunch to meet stringent new state safety regulations. The number of local condos on the list, which is maintained by federally chartered mortgage finance corporation Fannie Mae, has more than doubled in the past two years, according to new data released by a law firm that has been tracking it. The total number of condo buildings on the confidential database in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties sits at 696 as of March, the data from Allcock Marcus, which obtained it from a confidential source, shows. Thats nearly half the 1,438 condo buildings that Fannie Mae lists as ineligible for its backing in all of Florida. Owners in those buildings, which typically end up on the list because of financial, insurance or critical maintenance issues, will find it nearly impossible to sell to buyers seeking conventional mortgage financing. Owners and associations whose condos are on the list also have a harder time getting loans approved for repairs, said Jake Marcus, a Miami attorney for Allcock Marcus. I think its the perfect financial storm for condominiums in Florida, Marcus said. There is just a lot happening in Florida with all the new requirements. How to find if your Florida condo is on secret blacklist blocking mortgage loans The latest blacklist tally means its likely having a wider impact in South Florida and the rest of the state than previously understood. Those affected make up a small percentage of South Floridas estimated 13,000 condo associations, but the ineligible list still encompasses thousands of individual condo owners who may face financial difficulties because of it. A hurdle to mortgage loans Banks and mortgage lenders adhere closely to standards set by Fannie Mae and a second mortgage agency, Freddie Mac, which together financially back around 70 percent of residential loans in the United States. Both are overseen by the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Non-conforming mortgages that dont need Fannie or Freddie backing are available, but can be significantly more expensive and harder to qualify for. The Fannie and Freddie rules dont affect cash deals, which are common in South Florida. A view of the Miami skyline off Biscayne Bay includes condos in a file photo from December 2024. Its unclear whether Freddie Mac, which has enacted similar criteria for condo mortgages and loans, also maintains a list of ineligible properties or evaluates them on a case-by-case basis, though Marcus believes it does have its own blacklist. His firm has been able to obtain the Fannie Mae list thanks to a source, but doesnt have access to Freddie Mac information, he said. Because Fannie Mae hasnt come through with a promise to make its list publicly accessible to condo owners and associations, however, many dont find out their condo is on it until a lender rejects an application from a buyer. Getting off the list is possible but laborious, said Marcus, whose firm will help associations find out if theyre on it and develop strategies to contest the listing.( The sharp increase in ineligible properties is almost certainly driven by stricter requirements put in place by Fannie Mae for the loans and mortgages it backs after the 2021 collapse of the Champlain Towers South condo in Surfside, Marcus said. Typical reasons why the corporations wont back mortgages at a condo include inadequate reserves or insurance, structural or construction issues, too many delinquencies, and too high a percentage of rentals. After the Surfside disaster, Fannie Mae began requiring condo associations to fill out extensive questionnaires detailing their finances and building conditions to submit to a bank or lender when a unit owner wants to sell to a buyer who is seeking financing. The rationale was to reduce the risks involved in making loans on older condos like Champlain Towers that may have undisclosed or unaddressed maintenance, repair or financial issues. The agency said at the time that it would no longer back mortgages in condos facing critical repairs or material deficiencies such as mold or water intrusion, or that have deferred maintenance resulting in advanced deterioration. Ongoing routine maintenance or repairs are not an issue. But buildings that have not set aside sufficient funds to pay for needed critical work are also ineligible. Crackdown after Surfside The existence of the secret list first came to public light in 2023 as some condo associations realized applications for loans and mortgages in their buildings were being rejected at an increasing rate. The Fannie Mae crackdown has dovetailed consequentially with expanded requirements for condos enacted by the Florida Legislature in 2023 and 2024. Those new rules vary depending on condo age and location, but for the first time require those three stories or taller to conduct regular inspections to determine building conditions, then to build up enough money in reserves to cover the cost of expected repairs for structural issues and other critical building elements, such as electrical systems. Many Florida condos, however, have struggled to meet the new requirements and have not filed required inspection and reserve reports with the state that were due at the first of the year. Many condos had taken advantage of an explicit loophole in Florida law that allowed associations to waive creation of financial reserves until the 2023 reforms largely barred the practice, meaning they were suddenly faced with having to raise thousands of dollars quickly. At the same time, condo insurance rates have skyrocketed. That confluence has made already shaky finances for many older and less-affluent associations and owners even more tenuous and, in some cases, unsustainable, Marcus said. And thats reflected in the Fannie Mae data, he said. In Florida, the most common reason for a condo ending up on the blacklist is lack of adequate insurance coverage, with deferred maintenance and unmet critical repair needs a close second, the data shows. Some condos are on the list because of multiple issues, Marcus noted. Another common factor is being set up as a condo-hotel, because that can raise questions about financial stability or commercial uses that make a building ineligible for Fannie Mae-backed financing. The new financial stresses have heightened market uncertainty over the value of Florida condos, especially those older than 30 years that have to meet the new state standards. The inventory of condos listed for sale has risen markedly even as sales fall. The dynamic has put some condo owners in a double bind, Marcus said unable to afford special assessments for repairs or rising maintenance fees and insurance rates, but also unable to sell their units for a reasonable sum. Some associations are also having trouble obtaining loans to make the required repairs, he said. One likely consequence is that condominium living is becoming significantly more expensive than in the past, when condos were the more affordable option for Florida residents looking to own homes, Marcus said. An opening for developers Another repercussion, he and other condo experts say, is that the financial pressure on condo associations to sell in bulk to developers will probably increase. Though some prominent sales have happened in Miami and South Florida, the floodgates havent opened yet because bulks purchases remain a hard deal to pull off, Marcus said. Thats in part because a small percentage of owners can effectively veto a sale under Florida condo laws. But theres already lobbying in Tallahassee to ease those rules. Theyre going to see the need for it, Marcus predicted. People are going to lobby for it as a better way out than levying special assessments of hundreds of thousands of dollars and still leaving associations in deep disarray. Fannie Mae did not respond to a request for comment submitted through its website. The agency has disputed the characterization of its database of ineligible condos as a blacklist. At first, law firms like Allcock Marcus, which represents associations and first obtained the list in May of 2023, believed it had been in place for only for a couple of years. They have since learned that it was launched at least 21 years ago, though no one realized it existed because the number of condos on the list was relatively small for most of that time, Marcus said. Allcock Marcus wont release the list publicly because doing so could harm the condos reputations and potentially lower property values, creating liability issues. But it has set up an online link where condo association officers can ask the firm for help determining whether theyre on the list. The firm can also help condos get off the list. The firm has received hundreds of inquiries since setting up the link two years ago, Marcus said. Jennifer Vasquez Sura, the wife of Kilmar Abrego Garcia of Maryland, who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador, speaks during a news conference at CASA's Multicultural Center in Hyattsville, Md., Friday, April 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) GREENBELT, Md. (AP) A federal judge on Friday ordered the Trump administration to arrange for the return of a Maryland man to the United States after he was mistakenly deported to a notorious El Salvador prison, while a U.S. government attorney was at a loss to explain what happened. The ruling rejected the White House's claim that it lacks the power to retrieve Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national, because he is no longer in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has corrected deportation errors in previous years, according to Abrego Garcias attorney and legal experts. The government filed an appeal immediately after the decision, while Trump administration officials repeated assertions that Abrego Garcia is a dangerous gang member and that U.S. courts have no control over the matter. "We are unaware of the judge having jurisdiction or authority over the country of El Salvador," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement following the ruling by U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis. ICE expelled the 29-year-old Abrego Garcia last month despite an immigration judges 2019 ruling that shielded him from deportation to El Salvador, where he faced likely persecution by local gangs. His mistaken deportation, described by the White House as an administrative error, has outraged many and raised concerns about expelling noncitizens who were granted permission to be in the U.S. The record reflects that Abrego Garcia was apprehended in Maryland without legal basis ... and without further process or legal justification was removed to El Salvador, Xinis wrote in her order. Before she issued the ruling, Xinis described the deportation as an illegal act and pressed Justice Department attorney Erez Reuveni for answers, many of which he didn't have. Reuveni conceded to Xinis that Abrego Garcia should not have been removed from the U.S. and shouldnt have been sent to El Salvador. He couldnt tell the judge upon what authority he was arrested in Maryland. Im also frustrated that I have no answers for you for a lot of these questions, he said. The judge also questioned why Abrego Garcia was sent to the prison in El Salvador, which observers say is rife with human rights abuses. Why is he there, of all places? asked Xinis, who was nominated by President Barack Obama. I dont know, Reuveni replied. That information has not been given to me. Reuveni had asked the judge for more time 24 hours for the government to possibly broker Abrego Garcia's return. Abrego Garcia's attorney, Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, told the judge he was dismayed that the government had done nothing to get his client back, even after admitting its errors. Plenty of tweets. Plenty of White House press conferences. But no actual steps taken with the government of El Salvador to make it right, he said. Sandoval-Moshenberg said the governments response to its error was essentially to say, Weve tried nothing, and were all out of options. This is not something thats outside of the governments power, he said, noting that the U.S. routinely extradites gang leaders, drug traffickers and other imprisoned people from other countries. In legal briefs, Sandoval-Moshenberg asked the court to remove Abrego Garcia from the torture prison and return him to the custody of the United States. The White House has cast Abrego Garcia as an MS-13 gang member and doubled down on that claim after Friday's hearing. Tricia McLaughlin, Department of Homeland Security assistant secretary, stated that the U.S. has intelligence reports that he is involved in human trafficking. McLaughlin did not comment on whether the administration would comply with the judge's order or when and where Abrego Garcia might be returned to the U.S. But she said that he would be locked up and off Americas streets." MS-13 gang members murder, rape, and maim for sport, she said. "Its shameful that the mainstream media chooses to do the bidding of these vicious gangs while ignoring their victims. Abrego Garcias attorneys have countered that there is no evidence he was in MS-13. The allegation is based on a confidential informants claim in 2019 that Abrego Garcia was a member of a chapter in New York, where he has never lived. Abrego Garcia had a permit from DHS to legally work in the U.S., his attorney said. He served as a sheet metal apprentice and was pursuing his journeyman license. He fled El Salvador around 2011 because he and his family were facing threats by local gangs. In 2019, a U.S. immigration judge granted him protection from deportation to El Salvador. He was released and ICE did not appeal the decision or try to deport him to another country. Abrego Garcia later married Jennifer Vasquez Sura, a U.S. citizen. The couple are parents to their son and her two children from a previous relationship. The judges ruling on Friday came shortly after Vasquez Sura joined dozens of supporters at a rally in the city of Hyattsville to urge her husbands immediate return. Vasquez Sura, who hasn't spoken to her husband since his deportation, urged her supporters to keep fighting for him and all the Kilmars out there whose stories are still waiting to be heard. To all the wives, mothers, children who also face this cruel separation, I stand with you in this bond of pain, she said during the rally at a community center. Its a journey that no one ever should ever have to suffer, a nightmare that feels endless. ___ Finley reported from Norfolk, Virginia. Associated Press reporters Rebecca Santana and Seung Min Kim in Washington contributed to this report. WASHINGTON Rep. Elise Stefanik is being considered for multiple roles in House Republican leadership including a senior advisory position, sources told The Post, after her nomination for US ambassador to the UN was abruptly pulled last week. President Trump tapped Stefanik (R-NY), 40, for the UN post in November but asked her to remain in Congress with House Republicans facing tough votes on their tax, defense, energy and border priorities in the coming weeks. This is about stepping up as a team, Stefanik told Fox News at the time. I am doing that as a leader to ensure that we can take hold of this mandate and deliver these historic results. Rep. Elise Stefanik is being considered for multiple roles in House Republican leadership after her nomination for US ambassador to the UN was abruptly pulled, sources told The Post. Bloomberg via Getty Images Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), who replaced Stefanik as House GOP conference chair after her nomination, told Semafor that one option being discussed is for the New York Republican to serve as chair of the Elected Leadership Committee, which advises GOP leaders in the House and is appointed by the speaker. That position used to be filled by former Rep. Garret Graves (R-La.), but House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) took up the post himself after winning the gavel in October 2023. They are discussing multiple options, a source familiar with the talks said, while adding that the ultimate decision rests with Johnson. Another source noted that Stefaniks return has been welcomed by GOP lawmakers who saw her as a highly talented member of the leadership team and are eager to have Johnson install her in a top role as they prepare to pass Trumps big, beautiful agenda before Memorial Day. Its incumbent on the speaker to quickly iron out this because the president has been very clear about this, a GOP operative added. House Republicans hold a 220-213 majority over Democrats, following special elections in Florida this week that brought new GOP Reps. Randy Fine and Jimmy Patronis into the fold. President Trump made clear that Stefanik was one of my biggest Allies and promised that she would rejoin the House Leadership Team after announcing her departure. Getty Images Despite the added breathing room, Republicans can only lose three votes from their own conference before a vote fails to pass by a simple majority, as Republicans are planning to do with their massive budget reconciliation package. Trump, 78, made clear that Stefanik was one of my biggest Allies and promised that she would rejoin the House Leadership Team after announcing her departure. We must be unified to accomplish our Mission, and Elise Stefanik has been a vital part of our efforts from the very beginning, he said of the congresswoman who was also on his shortlist for the vice presidency in 2024. House Speaker Mike Johnson said Stefanik would return to the leadership table immediately. Getty Images With a very tight Majority, I dont want to take a chance on anyone else running for Elises seat, he added. New York Democrats had been angling to delay the special election to replace Stefanik in the 21st Congressional District until as late as November before Gov. Kathy Hochul halted the plans, sources previously told The Post. Johnson had said Stefanik would return to the leadership table immediately, without clarifying whether that will be as an adviser to leadership or another elevated position. Whatever happens, Stefanik wont be back as conference chair, since elections for those positions have already occurred and McClain is still holding the role, one source pointed out. Stefanik wont be conference chair, since elections for those positions have already occurred and Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) is still holding the role, one source pointed out. Getty Images Stefanik was one of the most stalwart defenders of Trump on the House Intelligence Committee during hearings held by Democrats who eventually voted in favor of his first impeachment. She went on to replace ex-Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) in the leadership role and drew national attention for her grilling of Ivy League university presidents who claimed that calls for the genocide of Jewish students on their campuses didnt necessarily violate their schools codes of conduct. Harvard University president Claudine Gay, who was later ousted over a plagiarism scandal involving her past scholarly work, stated that whether the comments were antisemitic depended on the context. The president has since suggested special envoy Ric Grenell or ex-Ambassador to Israel David Friedman could fill the UN position, though the former has already ruled himself out of the job. US special envoy Ric Grenell told Newsmax last week that he was a hard no on seeking the job. Bloomberg via Getty Images We have a lot of people that have asked about it and would like to do it David Friedman, Ric Grenell and maybe 30 other people, he told reporters in the Oval Office on Monday. Everyone loves that position. Thats a star-making position. And so well see what happens. Grenell told Newsmax last week that he was a hard no on seeking the job. The Post reached out to Johnsons and Stefaniks offices for comment. Kuala Lumpur The latest search for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 has been suspended by maritime exploration firm Ocean Infinity as it is "not the season," Malaysia's transport minister has said more than a decade after the plane went missing, and less than six weeks after the new hunt began. "They (Ocean Infinity) have stopped the operation for the time being, they will resume the search at the end of this year," Transport Minister Anthony Loke said in a voice recording sent to AFP on Thursday by his aide. Ocean Infinity, based in Britain and the United States, led an unsuccessful hunt in 2018, before agreeing to launch a new search this year. "Right now, it's not the season," Loke said in the recording, which was made during an event at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Wednesday. The Boeing 777 carrying 239 people disappeared from radar screens on March 8, 2014, while flying from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. Despite the largest search in aviation history, the plane has not been found. Loke's comments come a little over a month after authorities said the search had resumed, following earlier failed attempts that covered vast swaths of the Indian Ocean. An initial Australia-led search trawled 46,300 square miles of the Indian Ocean over three years, but found hardly any trace of the plane, with only some pieces of debris picked up. "Whether or not it will be found will be subject to the search, nobody can anticipate," Loke said, referring to the wreckage of the plane. Relatives of the victims had voiced hope in February that a new search could finally bring them closure. In December, Loke said Ocean Infinity would scour a new 5,800-square-mile area of the southern Indian Ocean, chosen "based on the latest information and data analysis conducted by experts and researchers." The most recent mission was conducted on the same "no find, no fee" principle as Ocean Infinity's previous search, with the government only obligated to pay out if the firm finds the aircraft. The plane's disappearance has long been the subject of theories ranging from the credible to outlandish. Among the theories is the suggestion that veteran pilot Zaharie Ahmad Shah could have gone rogue and crashed the plan deliberately. A final report into the tragedy released in 2018 pointed to failings by air traffic control and said the course of the plane was changed manually. Investigators said in the 495-page report that they still did not know why the plane vanished, and refused to rule out that someone other than the pilots had diverted the jet. Jiang Hui (R), a relative of a passenger who was on board missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, stands with others family members as he speaks to the media after a meeting in Beijing, China, March 8, 2025, on the 11th anniversary of the flight's disappearance. / Credit: PEDRO PARDO/AFP/Getty Two-thirds of the passengers were Chinese, while the others were from Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia and elsewhere. Relatives of passengers lost on the flight have continued to demand answers from Malaysian authorities. Family members of Chinese passengers gathered in Beijing outside government offices and the Malaysian embassy last month on the 11th anniversary of the flight's disappearance. Attendees of the gathering shouted, "Give us back our loved ones!" Some held placards asking, "When will the 11 years of waiting and torment end?" Authors of "Autism Out Loud" on motherhood, diagnosis and growth on the spectrum Democratic-backed candidate wins record-breaking Wisconsin Supreme Court seat Judge to hear case of Tufts University student detained by ICE, school calls for her release Senate Majority Leader John Thune at the Capitol on Tuesday. WASHINGTON The Republican-led Senate voted 52-48 on Thursday to begin debate on a budget blueprint for a multitrillion-dollar package to pass President Donald Trumps agenda. The measure calls for a steep tax cut and a spending increase for immigration enforcement and a Pentagon expansion, alongside unspecified spending cuts and a $5 trillion debt limit increase. It is likely to substantially increase the budget deficit. Every Republican voted for the measure, except Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky. Democrats unanimously voted against it. The Senate Budget plan gives us the tools that we need to get our shared priorities done, including certain PERMANENT Tax Cuts, Spending Cuts Energy, Historic Investments in Defense, Border, and much more, Trump wrote on social media on Wednesday. The Thursday vote has triggered up to 50 hours of debate, followed by an unlimited amendment process before a vote on adopting the budget blueprint thats expected this weekend. Democrats intend to offer amendments to put Republicans in a political bind, such as barring tax cuts for wealthy earners and forbidding Medicaid cuts. Youre going to see a whole lot of amendments going after Donald Trump and the Republicans on a whole bunch of issues where they are favoring billionaires and against families, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. told reporters. Republicans, who control 53 votes in the Senate, are likely to reject the Democratic amendments and approve the budget resolution in the end. If the House adopts the same measure, that would instruct committees to begin work on the bill that can bypass the Senate's 60-vote threshold and cut Democrats out of the process. Republicans indicate in the budget blueprint that they plan to use an accounting method to score the cost of permanently extending Trumps 2017 tax cuts at $0, after it was estimated to cost $4.6 trillion in a letter Thursday by the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation. The plan allows for an additional $1.5 trillion in tax cuts on top of that, giving the Senate Finance Committee flexibility to decide where those cuts are made. GOP senators told NBC News they may use that to pursue Trumps other proposals, like nixing taxes on tips. Itd be things that the president talked about like tax on tips, stuff like that. Maybe some other things that we think of, said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., the chair of the Senate Budget Committee. Making the tax cuts permanent will help the economy. Determining the baseline is my job, not anybody elses. The budget plan also paves the way for $175 billion in new funding for immigration enforcement to carry out mass deportation, and a $150 billion increase to military spending. The big open question is how much spending Republicans will cut, and what theyll go after. The measure calls for only a few billion dollars in spending cuts, a paltry sum compared to the tax cuts and spending increases it necessitates. I think when it comes to cutting spending, were not going to go after Medicaid benefits I agree with that but there are a lot of things we can do, Graham told reporters on Thursday, endorsing a work requirement for able-bodied people on Medicaid. Were going to cut, I think, trillions of dollars in spending, he said, without getting specific about how. The budget resolution also calls for a $5 trillion debt limit increase ahead of a deadline this year to act or risk a default on U.S. debt. The vote was delayed slightly on Thursday as Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., met privately with some senators who had questions about the process of what comes next, according to Sen. John Kennedy, R-La. I know that theres some senators that have more questions. But weve been doing this since January, and the side of the gallows concentrates the mind, Kennedy said, adding that he advised Thune to call the vote. The only way to to to get some senators to focus is to hold a vote, and then theyve got three choices: They can vote yes, they can vote no, or they can jump the rail and run. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., said leadership was not twisting arms, but they some folks wanted to make sure that they understood how the process worked and, as a result, proceeding to the vote took a little bit longer to get it done. Democrats, who dont have the votes to stop it unless four or more Republicans defect, are hoping to at least make it a politically painful vote for the majority party. The job of the Democrats over the next 36 hours is to hold the Republicans feet to the fire, force them to tell the truth about what they want to do to the American economy and what they believe fairness is, and that is a country that works for a handful of billionaires and lets everybody else eat dirt, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., told reporters. The Democrats are in this fight all the way. Were ready to go. Kinga Krzeminska - Getty Images While members might be over the moon about Costco's latest product release (garlic parmesan butter rolls), they have a bone to pick with the retailer over one of its grocery staples. On Wednesday, customers flooded Reddit with disgust over Costco's "funky chicken." "We picked up this chicken from Costco last weekend and when we went to prep it, it began to pull apart with very little effort and looked like this," the original poster wrote in the thread. "Although they state there's no added hormones or antibiotics. This shows clear signs of fast growth/excessive growth in the breasts... am I wrong here?" Fellow shoppers were quick to agree. "A well cooked chicken breast used to slice now it shreds. It's awful," one user wrote. "It's clearly too much growth. It gets a fiberous texture when you cook it," someone chimed in. "There may not be hormones involved, but it could just be the chickens were allowed to get too big/old." "I stopped buying Costco chicken a while back. It is just very poor quality," another said. "Their chicken sucks," a fourth Reddit user commented. One Costco member suggested that they "write to the CEO" about the chicken issue. "He seems to respond," they said. "Someone already did and got a reply that he would look into it," a person responded. "That was many months ago." Others agreed that the issue was going unresolved. "Theyre well aware. Pretty much every major gripe in this sub is very old news. Shitty produce, blade tenderized beef is a horrible thing, batteries all leak eventually, etc, etc. Chicken breasts have been an issue for years now, and its a problem elsewhere too," one customer added. Despite the fact that the anger is largely directed at Costco in the thread, it seems to be more of a universal problemmeaning it's not just an issue at the one retailer. "The chicken industry as a whole has a woody chicken breast problem," a shopper said. "Ive seen this at Frys/Safeway/Walmart also" another chimed in. "Apparently a lot of the higher quality supply goes to chicken restaurants like Chick Fil A, Popeyes etc." Takeout tonight, anyone? Turns out, there's a term for this weird chicken defect (beyond just "funky chicken"). It's called spaghetti chicken and it refers to a muscle defect known as myopathy. The good news is that it's safe to eateven if it might look a little less appealing. Your best bet for avoiding it is to buy from small-scale suppliers (that grow their chickens at a slower rate) or chicken with USDA organic designation. You Might Also Like Business Insider's reporter spent 30 hours in an Amtrak bedroom while traveling from Miami to New York. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I spent 30 hours on an overnight Amtrak train traveling from Miami to New York City in 2021. For $1,000, I booked a bedroom, which is about the size of a king-size bed with a full bathroom. At around 45 square feet, my cabin made impressive use of a tiny space without feeling cramped. In October 2021, I tucked myself into a train bunk during a 30-hour trip from Miami to NYC. I was on an overnight Amtrak train in the 45-square-foot accommodation I booked for $1,000 a bedroom. I thought it made great use of a small space by packing in amenities without sacrificing room to stretch out and move my body for the long ride. Follow me into the overnight train accommodation for a peek at every detail of this tiny, moving hotel room. For 45 square feet, the Amtrak bedroom felt spacious. The author relaxes during a 30-hour train ride home. Joey Hadden/Business Insider My Amtrak bedroom had a sofa that folded out into a bed, a bunk that pulled down from the ceiling, and a chair that folded up out of the way. Two wide windows and a full-length wall mirror made the space feel bigger. And even with all the furniture and amenities, there was enough floor space to stand up and stretch my limbs between hours of sitting. Between seats, a table with folded leaves pulled out from the wall. The author's laptop rests on the table. Joey Hadden/Business Insider Since I was working on my laptop sporadically throughout my trip, it was ideal to have a table that could be folded back into the wall for more space. To the left of the sofa, there was a sink and vanity with a handful of small towels next to it. Beneath the sink was storage for tissues and trash. Joey Hadden/Business Insider There was a cabinet to store toiletries and other personal items, too. There was also a private bathroom inside the bedroom with a door, shower, and toilet. The bathroom door is open (R) and closed (L). Joey Hadden/Business Insider Only bedroom accommodations on Amtrak trains have private, full bathrooms inside, according to the train line's website. Next to the seating area, a small closet held three hangers. The closet is open (R) and closed (L). Joey Hadden/Business Insider This may be especially handy for those traveling with jackets or formal clothing. I noticed other details, like temperature controls and a button to call an attendant, who was always prompt and nice. Controls for bedroom guests. Joey Hadden/Business Insider Another thing that surprised me was the variety of lighting options more than I've seen in an economy seat on a flight. When it was time to sleep, the sofa folded out into a bed on the bottom level, and another bunk-style bed came down from the ceiling. The author lies on the bottom bunk when it's time for bed. Joey Hadden/Business Insider On the top bunk, I saw more controls for air conditioning and lights and a small storage pouch. My ticket came with meals ordered from a separate menu for passengers staying in a bedroom. The author and her favorite meal. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I liked the braised short ribs meal with mashed potatoes and a roll that I had for dinner. To make it taste even better, I made a little sandwich out of the ingredients. The bedroom is ideal for overnight travelers since it packs many amenities into a small space while providing enough room to stretch out. The author plays video games on the train home to New York. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I recommend the Amtrak roomette for those looking for a more affordable overnight accommodation. It's half the size of a bedroom but still includes two bunks with a daytime seating arrangement. And, in my experience, it costs half the price. Read the original article on Business Insider FILE - Students help put away supplies at the end of a reading and writing lesson at the Head Start program run by Easterseals, an organization that gets about a third of its funding from the federal government, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File) WASHINGTON (AP) The Supreme Court on Friday granted the Trump administrations plea to cut hundreds of millions of dollars in teacher-training money as part of its anti-DEI efforts, while a lawsuit continues. The justices split 5-4, with Chief Justice John Roberts joining the three liberal justices in dissent. The emergency appeal is among several the high court is considering in which the Justice Department argues that lower-court judges have improperly obstructed President Donald Trumps agenda. Fridays order was the first time, in three attempts, that the nations highest court gave the administration what it wanted on an emergency basis. The Supreme Court previously sided against the administration in another lawsuit over nearly $2 billion in foreign aid cuts in another divided 5-4 ruling, with Justice Amy Coney Barrett in the majority in both cases. It remains to be seen whether Friday's decision marks a narrow win or a broader shift in Trump's favor. The Trump administration is facing some 150 lawsuits in lower courts challenging his flurry of executive orders. That includes about two dozen over federal funding cuts, some totaling billions of dollars. The teaching training case deals with cuts to more than 100 programs. They had been temporarily blocked by a federal judge in Boston, who found that they were already affecting training programs aimed at addressing a nationwide teacher shortage. U.S. District Judge Myong Joun issued a temporary restraining order sought by eight Democratic-led states that argued the cuts were likely driven by efforts from Trumps administration to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs. The federal appeals court in Boston turned away an appeal from the administration to allow them to resume. The Republican president also has signed an executive order calling for the dismantling of the Education Department, and his administration has already started overhauling much of its work, including cutting dozens of contracts it dismissed as woke and wasteful. The two programs at issue the Teacher Quality Partnership and Supporting Effective Educator Development provide more than $600 million in grants for teacher preparation programs, often in subject areas such as math, science and special education, the states have argued. They said data has shown the programs had led to increased teacher retention rates and ensured that educators remain in the profession beyond five years. Despite Joun's finding that the programs already were being affected, the high court's conservative majority wrote that the states can keep the programs running with their own money for now. By contrast, the majority said in an unsigned opinion, the federal government probably wouldnt be able to recover the cash if it ultimately wins the lawsuit. Justice Elena Kagan wrote in dissent that there was no reason for the court's emergency intervention. Nowhere in its papers does the Government defend the legality of canceling the education grants at issue here, Kagan wrote. In a separate opinion, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson wrote, It is beyond puzzling that a majority of Justices conceive of the governments application as an emergency. Roberts joined neither dissent, noting only that he would have denied the appeal. The administration halted the programs without notice in February. Joun, an appointee of Democratic President Joe Biden, found that the cancellations probably violated a federal law that requires a clear explanation. The appellate panel that rejected the administrations request for a stay also was made up of judges appointed by Democrats. Attorney General Pam Bondi celebrated the ruling as a significant victory for President Trump and the rule of law. California is leading the ongoing lawsuit, joined by Massachusetts, New Jersey, Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, New York and Wisconsin. Boston Public Schools have already had to fire several full-time employees due to the loss of grant funding, and the College of New Jersey has also canceled the rest of its teacher-residency program. California State University has ended support for two dozen students in a similar program, and eliminated financial assistance for 50 incoming students. ___ A man was arrested Friday after police said he "assaulted two victims" in Dallas who were reportedly there for a bachelorette celebration. The Dallas Police Department identified the man as 27-year-old Trevon Woodards. The suspect was taken into custody last Friday in connection with a March 23 attack on Canada Rinaldi, according to NBCDFW and KFOR. The incident reportedly happened when Rinaldi, 27, of Oklahoma, was outside a club in Dallas with her friends and family. We started walking across the street to get into the Uber, and thats when he came from behind and he punched Canada, and she went straight down, and I turned to push him away, and that's when he got me, Kelly Peralta, who was with the group, told NBCDFW. USA TODAY reached out to the Dallas and Bedford police departments for more information. Crime: Former Green Beret in North Carolina was killed, dismembered by his wife, police say GoFundMe: Rinaldi suffered a concussion and other injuries According to a GoFundMe, Rinaldi was beaten "until she was unconscious." "She was left with a concussion, a broken nose, 3 broken teeth and 8 stitches to her face," the caption said. "This horrifying attack happened just four weeks before her wedding." More than $20,000 was raised for the bride-to-be's medical expenses. Woodards was captured days later Following the incident, the Dallas Police Department released a public alert asking for assistance tracking Woodards. According to NBCDFW, he was captured on a dash camera. The 27-year-old was arrested in Bedford, which is about 23 miles from Dallas. Per jail records and a spokesperson from the Dallas police department, he was charged with aggravated assault with serious bodily injury and assault bodily injury. He is being housed at the Lon Evans Corrections Center. Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bride-to-be reportedly attacked in Dallas; suspect arrested In order to stay within the ultra-budget price, I opted to only bring a personal item bag. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider I took a three-hour, one-way trip from Miami International to Newark on Spirit Airlines. The total for the trip was $9.97 through a third-party website. The flight didn't include refreshments or a carry-on bag. I might've hit the budget airline jackpot. I have taken plenty of budget flights before, with my previous record being a $50 flight from Miami to Los Angeles in 2021. But while looking for a flight to New York, I found a fare I originally thought to be a scam. The Spirit Airlines flight from Miami International Airport to Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, a short drive from Manhattan, cost me under $10, although it was limited in some ways. The basic economy ticket meant I couldn't bring or purchase carry-on bags, and there were no refreshments on the flight. It was late, too, which made for a tiring trip, but for $9.97 total, I'd do it again without a doubt. I found the flight while looking through available routes from Miami to New York. I sorted flights from lowest to highest price and was surprised when this popped up on my screen. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider While planning to travel up to the city during the first half of April, I compared dozens of different flight options. I didn't have a defined budget, but I knew I wanted to opt for lower-priced options. Of the budget-friendly airlines, I had traveled with both Spirit and Frontier before and had good experiences, so I was open to both. My priority filter was departure and arrival time. I wanted something that wouldn't interfere with my work schedule. That meant that the earliest flight I could take on a weekday would depart by 7 p.m. and the latest would arrive by 7 a.m. With those filters, and while playing with Google Flights' different filters, sorting, and price comparison tools for the first week of April, a surprising price appeared at the top of my screen. The one-way flight from Miami to Newark was listed as $10, although booking options showed that the total would actually be $20 if booked through the airline's website directly. The flight was scheduled to depart Miami at 9:51 p.m. and arrive in New Jersey at 12:59 a.m. I wanted to be flexible in my schedule and get the best deal on my return flight as well, so I waited until later to book my return, which I would also buy as a one-way ticket. At first I wasn't too trusting of the third-party website, but I booked it anyway. I booked the flight after reading reviews of the third-party website online. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider The third-party website offering the $10 fare was called eDreams. I had never heard of it. I knew there were risks associated with booking through third-party retailers. For example, if the airline cancels or delays the flight, it might not be possible to get a refund or reach a customer service representative. After looking up reviews on forum websites like Reddit and Quora, I figured it was safe enough to book the flight through them. After all, if it turned out to be phony, it would only be a $10 gamble. Accepting the risk of booking through a third-party website, which I had never done for flights before, I bought my ticket. Once confirmed, the flight seemed legit. The email from the airline was exactly like the ones I had received before when booking through them directly. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider After receiving the airline's confirmation email, my initial doubts faded. The email looked like others I had received before. Plus, I was able to log into my account with the airline and see the upcoming trip. I found it curious that on Spirit's confirmation email, the total for the flight was different than what I actually paid. While only $9.97 left my bank account, in the email, Spirit listed the total as $19.30, which is close to what it would've cost to book through their website. I could only bring a personal item. With my basic economy flight, I could opt to check a bag or select a seat for an extra fee. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider Once the flight was confirmed, I reviewed the conditions of the ultra-cheap fare. Under the airline's basic economy option, I wasn't allowed to bring a carry-on bag, although checked bags were available for purchase for $75. Committed to traveling on as low a budget as possible, I opted to only bring with me a personal item bag, which I was allowed. The bag, defined a backpack or a laptop bag, needed to fit under the seat on the airplane, measuring 18 x 14 x 8 inches at a maximum. With the size limitation, I had to be strategic about what I packed. The bag fits comfortably within the size limitations and can extend for extra space. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider Preparing for a 10-day trip, I had to strategize how I used my personal item luggage. I bought $22 bag on Amazon that had come up a lot on my TikTok feed. Users recommended it as a travel bag, and it fit within the airline's limitations. Although the expandable bag should fit comfortably within the measurements, I was scared that expanding the bottom by a few inches would make it larger than what was acceptable to bring aboard. I was also nervous about over-stuffing the bag. I had previously read reports of airline agents deciding personal item bags were too big at the door and charging an additional fee for carry-on luggage, although I had never had that happen to me. Wary of how I utilized space, I decided to pack only the necessities and keep items in mind I could take out if needed to close the extended compartment. I packed a capsule wardrobe with work and casual outfits. I packed all the essentials I needed for a 10-day trip inside the personal-item-sized bag. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider With my trip schedule revolving around going to the office and meeting up with friends in the city after work, I packed a capsule wardrobe of outfits I could dress up or down during the day. I brought a limited color palette that could be worn in different ways, using green as the signature color and light and dark neutrals as the bulk of what I packed. For the 10 days, I packed four white tops and blouses, four darker tops and blouses, three work pants (black, cream, and khaki), two skirts (grey and green), one workout set, two pairs of comfortable, office-friendly shoes, one pair of sneakers, a big work bag, and a smaller purse for going out. I kept toiletries and electronics to a minimum, only bringing products in small pouches and limiting myself to one small bag for the rest of my makeup and toiletries. I also packed strategically, putting all the shoes at the bottom and fitting socks in between them, then arranging clothes in space-saving ways and using the purse for extra storage space within the bag. I wore the other half of my luggage to the airport. I was able to bring seven extra items I couldn't fit in the small bag by wearing them to the airport. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider Wearing my bulkiest items and layering for maximized stuff-bringing, I layered my workout set under a pair of wide-leg jeans and a thick knit sweater, which I topped with a leather blazer (with books and other essentials in every pocket). I also wore a pair of boots and a scarf to the airport. The outfit was efficient and beyond well equipped for the 45-degree weather waiting for me in New Jersey, but it was certainly too hot for the 79-degree Miami that I was departing. I ended up taking off the scarf and jacket in the Miami airport and carrying them along with me during the flight as well. Despite carrying 10 days worth of clothes, my bag fit in the personal item bin. The overstuffed bag might've needed a push to fit, but nevertheless, it met the requirements. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider After much anticipation and preparation including arriving at the airport extra early, identifying items I'd be OK leaving behind and asking my ride to wait until I could confirm my bag fit I dropped my slightly overstuffed bag carrying 10 days worth of clothes into the measuring bin. It fit! I might've had to push it down into the compartment quite a bit in order for it to fit, but after getting a thumbs-up from an airline agent, I was on my way to check in with no luggage fees. Check-in was easy at a surprisingly quiet Miami International Airport. The usually hectic airport was pleasantly calm. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider Having traveled out of Miami International, my home base airport, dozens of times, I was very surprised by how quiet and empty the airport was. It may have been the departure time my flight had been pushed back by about an hour to 10:50 p.m. It was also a middle-of-the-week night, which tends to be quieter, SimpleFlying.com reported. Being able to go through a line-less TSA check-in in under 10 minutes made my travel experience all the better. Once on the plane, the staff was friendly, and the aircraft was clean. The boarding process was seamless, and some of the delays were pushed up, allowing for an earlier departure. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider Once at the gate, the airline personnel were organized, friendly, and eager to start a conversation. One flight attendant asked about the book I was reading. The friendly service was made even better by the seamless boarding process, which took under 30 minutes for all groups. Being in basic economy, I was in the second-to-last group to board. Not many of the people at the gate seemed to board during the first four groups, usually reserved for first- and business-class seats. While seating, the crew made an announcement about the flight not being too crowded and asked passengers not to seat themselves in the empty seats for weight distribution purposes. I didn't select my seat, leaving me with an aisle seat near the back of the plane. I was satisfied with my seat, which I had not paid extra to select. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider I opted out of the airline's seat selection option, as it came with an extra fee, and I was too committed to traveling for under $10. The seat I was assigned was near the back of the plane in an aisle seat, which gave me some extra space. The seats themselves weren't the most comfortable, but they were bearable enough for a three-hour midnight flight. The legroom wasn't too bad, and my bag comfortably fit under the seat. My feet were perhaps a little crammed, being unable to fit under the seat with my bag there. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider Once in my seat, I put my personal item bag under the seat in front of me and made myself comfortable. While the legroom itself wasn't too bad, I didn't have much space for my feet with my luggage under the seat. Thankfully, having the aisle seat meant I could extend my legs a bit to the side during the flight, making it more comfortable. The flight didn't have complimentary snacks or drinks, but they were available for purchase. I eyed the snacks for a while but stuck to my extreme budget for the sake of traveling for $10. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider While the basic economy ticket did not include refreshments, a snack and menu drink were available, including sweet and savory bites, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages, as well as packages offering a combination of all. Unlike what I had expected, the prices of the items were good and not too inflated, although I wish they had been included with the flight. Snacks and soft drinks cost between $3.35 and $5.49, and alcohol ranged from $9.49 for a can of beer to $12.49 for a small bottle of brut sparkling wine. WiFi was also available for purchase on the flight for $8. I thought of getting some tea to help me fall asleep during the flight, but I fell asleep before the crew started offering refreshments. The flight was peaceful, and I slept the entire time. Most passengers around me were also sleeping during the flight. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider Even with the slightly uncomfortable seats, I was able to find a way to make myself comfortable and nap during the flight, as were the people around me. Some rested their heads against the seat in front of them or reclined against the windows. I woke up once we were close to landing as the lights came on and the crew promoted the airline's credit card offers. The most expensive part of the trip was the ride from the airport. The ride was six times the price of the flight, but I didn't expect anything less. Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider Arriving at a quiet Newark Liberty International Airport at around 1:30 a.m., a few minutes earlier than programmed, I found my way to the rideshare lot. I called a Lyft to take me to my final destination in Manhattan's Washington Heights, about a 30-minute ride away. The ride cost $66.91 plus tip, but based on other airport rides I've had, I thought the price wasn't too bad. Overall, the experience was great and totally worth its value price. The friendly crew, efficient boarding and arrival, quiet airports, and schedule-friendly timing made the trip everything I needed it to be for a quick trip. If the same route had that price every day, I'd be super-super-commuting Read the original article on Business Insider Even conservatives accept the Constitutional Courts unanimous ruling, removing the sitting president over his attempt to impose martial law on 3 December. This marks the start of an uncertain election campaign with opposition leader Lee Jae-miung as the big favourite. Seoul (AsiaNews) South Koreas Constitutional Court has issued its long-awaited ruling. By a unanimous decision, it upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, a former prosecutor, for his attempt to impose martial law on the night of 3 December. Mr Yoon thus becomes the second president of South Korea to be removed from office after Park Geun-hye, who was forced out in 2017 for her involvement in a corruption scandal in which Yoon played a key role in convicting her. Polls indicate that a majority of South Koreans believe that the justices ruling is right, and oppose Yoons coup designed to break a deadlock with the National Assembly, which is controlled by the opposition Democratic Party. The mood among right-wing parties, whose supporters took to the streets today, is one of resignation; nevertheless, despite early fears of possible violence, which led to an unprecedented deployment of security forces, no disturbances were reported. Immediately after the sentence, Yoon himself released a brief statement through his lawyers. I deeply regret not being able to live up to your hopes and expectations," he writes. It has been the greatest honour of my life to serve our nation. I am sincerely grateful for your unwavering support and encouragement, even when I fell short." His immediate predecessor, Moon Jae-in, a member of the main opposition party, also spoke about the ruling of the Constitutional Court. We defended the democratic republic in the name of the Constitution and justice," he wrote on his Facebook page, thanking those who have mobilised since the night of 3 December. We have once again demonstrated to the world the remarkable resilience of our democracy," he added, hoping that the consequences of martial law will soon give way to "unity and stability" and serve as an opportunity to advance towards a "more mature democracy." Now, according to the Constitution, the country will have to elect a new president within 60 days. The most likely date is 3 June, while the primary elections will have to be held to pick candidates. Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, who lost to Yoon in 202 by a handful of votes, was cleared by Seoul Central District Court of corruption charges in connection with his tenure as a provincial governor, thus paving the way for a presidential run. Today Lee is the clear favourite, while Yoons conservative People Power Party is still grappling with the fallout from the impeachment. The country's Catholic bishops also responded to today's ruling. As a new phase that is opening in the countrys history, they call on South Koreans to make every effort to restore the trust of the people and achieve harmony. In particular, they hope that politicians will not forget that they exist to serve the people, respect each other, and move toward a win-win politics where they listen to each other's opinions. In addition, for social reconciliation and the realisation of the common good, the process of electing leaders with responsibility and morality should be realised democratically and maturely. To this end, The Catholic Church of Korea will pray with all our hearts so that the choices made by the people in the future will become a stepping stone for justice and true peace to be realized in our country. The June election will also be an important test for regional politics in East Asia. Under Yoon, South Korea pursued a policy of rapprochement with Japan against China and a hardened stance vis-a-vis North Korea. On both issues, Lee holds very different positions than Yoon and which will now be tested, especially in the wake of US President Donald Trump's tariffs, which will also hit South Korea hard. In the past month, protests calling for the restoration of the monarchy have broken out in the Himalayan country in which pictures of an Indian BJP leader have appeared. New Delhi has repeatedly expressed support for the king and for Nepal to return to being a Hindu state. But many believe the protests express dissatisfaction with traditional parties, which are not keeping their promises of prosperity. Kathmandu (AsiaNews/Agencies) Over the past month, Nepal has been the scene of anti-government, pro-monarchy protests, which the country officially abolished in 2008. The situation is indicative of a certain influence of Indias far right in the country. Since King Gyanendra Shah abdicated after running an extremely authoritarian and repressive regime, Nepal has continued to live in a situation of political instability, with frequent changes of government (14 in all so far); this has hindered economic development, and created disillusionment in the population, who had hoped for a better future under a republican government. On 9 March, more than 10,000 supporters of the former monarch gathered in Kathmandu to complain about the corruption of current Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and calling for a return to the monarchy. At the end of the month, another rally turned violent with protesters clashing with police, which resulted in the death of two people and scores wounded. Protesters broke through security barriers, threw stones at police and set fire to buildings, including political party headquarters and media offices. In response, the government imposed a curfew and deployed security forces to restore order. During the protests, posters appeared with pictures of Yogi Adityanath, chief minister of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, which borders Nepal, a leading figure in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis ultranationalist Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Adityanath's association with Nepal's pro-monarchy movement has raised concerns in the government about possible foreign meddling. Prime Minister Oli, who is considered pro-Chinese, said India was playing a role in the country's pro-monarchy movement and vowed to "unmask" it in parliament. However, almost half of the Nepali population would like a return to a Hindu state rather than a return to the monarchy. The king of Nepal was considered a Hindu deity, and India has always tried to stress this element to increase its influence and counter Chinese activism in the Himalayan country. Despite its long and stable relations with Nepals monarchy, India has had some success in cultivating relations with traditional Nepali parties. But that is not all. Important BJP leaders have married into the Nepali royal family. In the past Adityanath had declared that the decision to make Nepal secular was "unconstitutional", while Nepals government and opposition recently squared off over foreign influence. The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), the main monarchist party, responded to Prime Minister Oli and the unified Marxist-Leninist party by asking: "Where do Marx, Lenin and Mao come from? At present, it is believed that the demonstrations are a sign of the growing and widespread public frustration with a number of parties that have so far proved incapable of managing public affairs, because few Nepalis appear to be truly in support of the restoration of the monarchy. In the 2017 general election, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) won less than 2 per cent of the vote. Support in the 2022 election rose to 6 per cent. According to some reports, the 10,000 pro-monarchy protesters who took to the streets in Kathmandu are not comparable to the hundreds of thousands of people who in 2006 demanded the end of the royal government. At the same time, however, others believe that it is undeniable that Hinduism, practised by more than 80 per cent of Nepalis, has taken on greater importance, even among the most pro-Chinese politicians. In fact, several leaders have made pilgrimages to different temples in recent years, including in Uttar Pradesh. INDIAN MANDALA IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO INDIA. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY FRIDAY? TO SUBSCRIBE, CLICK HERE. by Daniele Frison In his new book, the Spanish writer recounts his trip to Ulaanbaatar with Pope Francis in 2023. As a convinced atheist, he discovered the "radicality" of men and women religious who help people without proselytising. For him, they embody the pontiffs missionary and poor Church, he said yesterday at a meeting with the press in Rome. The novel narrates the meetings with Fr Ernesto Viscardi and Sr Ana Waturu. Rome (AsiaNews) The idea is sensational. In May 2023, Javier Cercas, an atheist and avowed anticlerical Spanish writer, was approached by Lorenzo Fazzini, head of Libreria Editrice Vaticana (LEV), the Vatican Publishing House, for an unprecedented and absolutely unexpected proposal: to follow Pope Francis to Asia, on his 43rd apostolic journey to Mongolia. The East Asian country is home to a tiny Catholic community (about 1,500 faithful out of 3.4 million), lying on the extreme "periphery" of the Christian world, and therefore a land of mission. This led to Il folle di Dio alla fine del mondo" (Gods fool at the end of the world), published by Guanda in Italy, a "novel without fiction", which hit bookstores in Italy, Spain and Latin America[*] on 1 April 2025. The Vatican offered Cercas the opportunity to write a book on this "adventure", with absolute freedom regarding content and form. He hesitated for a while. Don't you know that I'm a dangerous guy? was his first reaction. Then he accepted. Spoiler: The story does not end with Javier Cercass conversion. Jokingly, he says, I wouldnt be able to sell any copies. But he admits that in Mongolia he was touched by Pope Franciss missionary and poor Church, which is the very core of Pope Franciss pontificate. The writer described the Argentinian as a pope from the periphery during a meeting yesterday with the press, including AsiaNews, at the Caffarelli terrace, on the Capitoline Hill in Rome, as part of an international Literature festival. Who represents this true Church, this radicality? The missionaries, without a doubt. It's impossible not to admire them," he said. Although Javier Cercas has not embraced the faith he lost "many years ago", as he often says, after the trip (31 August-4 September 2023) to the Buddhist-majority state caught between Siberia and China, he ironically said that he had found the solution "to all the problems of the Church. All be missionaries! If you are all missionaries then the problem is solved," he said. For the writer, missionaries are "God's true fools, a reference to the saint of Assisi from whom the Jorge Mario Bergoglio took his papal name. The "fools", Bergoglio's soldiers", as Cercas calls them in the book go by the name of Father Ernesto, Father Giovanni, Sister Ana, Sister Francesca, and other characters, with whom the writer had long conversations. "They do totally abnormal things. They abandon their family, home, country, without worrying about money, professional ambition... all this to go to Mongolia, or to Africa. To do what? he asks. To help people. Not even to convert people. This is forbidden in Franciss Church of Francis. It is not proselytising. It is helping those in need. How can we not admire all this? This thing is something absolutely revolutionary, subversive. For Javier Cercas, who received a strict Catholic education as a young man, the missionary is "the ideal Christian. He is the one who takes Christ's message seriously. It is Franciss revolution, an extraordinary radicality, which means the return to primitive Christianity," he said. Fr Ernesto Viscardi appears in the book because he organised a meeting with the Buddhist monks from the monastery of Dashichoilin. A Consolata missionary, he arrived in the country in 2004 (only Card Giorgio Marengo, Apostolic Prefect in Ulaanbaatar, arrived earlier). The only Catholic missionary who arrived in Mongolia of his own free will, not destined here by his superiors," writes Cercas. He knew [...] that Asia was an immense continent, reluctant to Christianity." He served at the "Rising Sun" centre, in Chingeltei, on the outskirts of the capital. He and his companions take in poor children and teenagers without families to whom they offer shelter, food, education, fun and affection. The next character in God's fool at the end of the world" is Father Giovanni, an Oblate of Mary Immaculate, a former missionary in South Korea, with almost thirty years in Beijing," writes Cercas. The Spanish writer also writes about meeting with Sister Ana Waturu, from Kenya, a Consolata missionary, director of Caritas in Mongolia, describing the conversation inside Ulaanbaatar cathedral, which is dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, and serves as headquarters of the Christian charity. She directs a group of 20 volunteers, not all Catholics, mostly between 30 and 40, committed to assisting people who request it, providing them with food, clothing, shelter and aid of all sorts, he says. The writer also had the opportunity to speak with "the youngest of the Consolata missionaries destined for Mongolia, Sister Francesca Allasia, who was 35 in 2023. In Asia for a few months, she was on her first missionary experience, arriving after her studies in Rome. She began to talk about the kids in the Rising Sun Centre as if they were her children, but I immediately understood that, in reality, for her, they are really her children," Cercas writes in the book. AsiaNews yesterday attended the author's talk with Italian journalists Aldo Cazzullo, who also appears in the book, and Sabina Minardi, in Romes Auditorium Parco della Musica. On this occasion, Cercas explained that his journey was marked by two factors. The first, the "geopolitical" one (which is actually the less important one), is the Churchs turn to the East, and therefore to Beijing. "China is very important; in fact, there are not many diplomatic ties. It is an obsession of the Jesuits and the pope. The trip to Mongolia also served to get closer to it," he said. At the end of the trip, at the Mass in the Steppe Arena on Sunday, 3 September 2023, Pope Francis sent a heartfelt greeting to the noble Chinese people. But for Javier Cercas, the second factor, religion, is key, it is the core of the book. The author, the most important civil writer in Europe, says Cazzullo, accepted the Holy Sees proposal on one condition: that the pope grant him five minutes face-to-face. Cercas wanted to ask the pontiff a question. So I boarded this plane to ask Pope Francis if my mother will see my father beyond death, and to bring my mother his answer. Here is a fool without God who pursues God's fool to the end of the world," he writes. This enigma, a child's question, accompanies Javier Cercass new novel, turning into a thriller about existence that will be solved by a small miracle. [*] Spanish title: El loco de Dios en el fin del mundo. Published by Literatura Random House. The NGO, supported by the PIME Foundation, is bringing aid to the areas most affected by the earthquake of 28 March, aggravated by four years of civil war. In Mandalay and on Inle Lake thousands of houses have been destroyed, as the aid workers report. The young people at the Dayamit centre, on the outskirts of Yangon, prepare meals for the survivors. Yangon (AsiaNews) - Intervention efforts are still focused on responding to the basic needs of the people of Myanmar after the earthquake that struck the country a week ago, already bent under the weight of a civil war that has lasted for more than four years. By now they are moving the rubble to clear the streets rather than to look for the missing, who are assumed to be dead, says Jose Magro, a humanitarian worker for New Humanity International, an NGO supported by the PIME Foundation that has been working in the country since before the outbreak of the civil conflict. There are over 3,000 dead and more than 5,000 people injured according to the official data communicated by the ruling junta, but it is assumed that the figure is much higher. The NGO teams have started to bring aid to Lake Inle - which was badly hit because it is surrounded by hundreds of houses on stilts - and to Mandalay, one of the worst affected areas together with the Sagaing region, where the military junta, despite announcing a cessation of hostilities, has continued to bomb the villages along the front line. We already knew the area around the lake because in October, after typhoon Yagi passed, we had tried to help out after the floods, explain the aid workers on site. According to initial assessments carried out by New Humanity, over 1,000 houses have been destroyed in Inle and more than 300 have been damaged. Food, drinking water and shelter in preparation for the rainy season, which will begin shortly, are still the most urgent needs, even now, a week after the earthquake. Connections are still sporadic and in all the affected areas there is still no electricity supply, except for a couple of hours a day. Diesel, which is needed to power the generators, is one of the most sought-after goods at the moment. Another aid lorry left for Mandalay a few days ago, carrying water, food, medicine and solar panels. We collected a lot of medicines to help the patients at the hospital in Mandalay, which was completely destroyed, explains Magro. A doctor and some nurses who have been working with us for some time also took part in the expedition, added the aid worker. Some aid has already been distributed thanks to the collaboration with the archdiocese, which suffered enormous damage: The situation is worse than we imagined. Many houses have been destroyed, the markets are no longer there, people don't know where to stay or where to go. Once the kits have been prepared, the real difficulty is reaching the population in the most isolated areas, but we are succeeding thanks to the collaboration of many friends, both here and by sending donations, continues Jose Magro. It was the boys and girls who attend a training centre run by New Humanity who cooked the food sent to their fellow countrymen under the rubble: in the southern outskirts of Yangon, the NGO supports the Dayamit Community College, which gives a second chance to young people who have dropped out of school due to poverty and who in most cases do casual work earning three euros a day. At Dayamit they attend professional courses with a view to finding stable employment. The young people who attend our cooking courses have set to work to prepare dried, non-perishable food to be included in the aid kits sent to Mandalay, the New Humanity operators explained. The next step will be to help families gradually rebuild their history and their lives. We have no illusions, it will be a long job. But in the meantime we thank everyone, including those in Italy, who are giving us a hand. (photo: New Humanity) To respond to the humanitarian emergency, the PIME Foundation has decided to launch a fundraiser for Myanmar. The funds will be used to bring aid to those affected by the earthquake through the NGO New Humanity International, which has been active in the country for years and has mobilised its local network for rescue operations. Donations can be made with the reason for payment S001 Emergencies - Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand: by Vladimir Rozanskij With the border agreement, after four years of deadlock, air links have been re-established and trade routes re-opened. The agreement could usher in a period of strong economic growth, especially for Tajikistan, the most underdeveloped country in all of Central Asia. Dusanbe (AsiaNews) - The recent border demarcation agreement between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, signed on 13 March after years of tensions and clashes, is one of the few examples of conflict resolution between neighbours in this particularly troubled period, as Pope Francis also pointed out in the Angelus on Sunday 30 March. Experts from Asia-Plus emphasise that this agreement could open a period of great economic growth, especially for Tajikistan, the most underdeveloped country in all of Central Asia. The text of the agreement, ratified by the respective parliaments on 18 and 19 March, lists 15 points regarding the collaboration between the two countries. An intergovernmental council will be formed, with the main aim of increasing the common trade balance to at least half a billion dollars. As a demonstration of this, the two presidents, Sadyr Zaparov and Emomali Rakhmon, have inaugurated two large shopping centres on both sides of the border areas, Guliston-Kyzyl Bel and Madanijat-Kajragac, connected by new bus lines. On 14th March the private Tajik company Somon Air made the first flight in four years from Dushanbe to Bishkek, which became a regular service on 23rd March. On 16th March the Kyrgyz company Asman Airlines also opened the air route from Bishkek to Khudzhand, which will become a regular service from 8th April. The parties have also agreed to verify the connection line between the Sogd-500 and Datka stations, as part of the Casa-1000 project. Trade between the two countries, after the closure of the borders in April 2021, had collapsed by 3.3 times, from almost 40 million dollars in 2020 to 12 million in 2024. Trade was carried out in very small flows through third countries, mainly Uzbekistan, and 93% of it consisted of the delivery of Kyrgyz items to Tajikistan. In general, the percentage of trade with Bishkek for the Dusanbe balance sheet had been reduced to 0.1% in the last 9 months, and the opening of the borders could bring it back up to at least the 2020 level. Experts believe that the goal of reaching 500 million dollars is not realistic in either the short or medium term, even if the potential for market expansion should not be underestimated. In fact, both countries lack oil and energy resources, which condemns them to remain in a marginal position compared to their neighbours Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and even Turkmenistan. The Kyrgyz and Tajik economies develop in parallel only in the export of generic and non-critical raw materials, importing foreign-made items. Kyrgyzstan mainly exports coal and refined Russian oil, as well as some Kazakh and Chinese products, which were bought by Tajik traders in the famous Dordoj market in Bishkek. Tajikistan mainly exports agricultural products, such as fruit and vegetables, as well as some building materials. Those who suffered most from the closing of the borders were the inhabitants of the frontier areas, who depended on commercial exchanges linked by centuries-old traditions to the frontier markets, where one could buy and sell anything. Since ancient times it had been customary to meet on Tuesdays in the Kyrgyz village of Arka in the Batken region, and on Sundays in the Tajik village of Khistevarz Sogda. In addition to products and market goods, both countries also suffered a sharp decline in the supply of services, especially considering that the conflict broke out in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic. Land and air transport, telephone connections, hotel services and power lines have remained at medium to low levels, and now great growth is expected in these sectors. The Tajiks will have the opportunity to supply cheap Chinese-made goods through the northern routes of the country, and Kyrgyzstan has committed to act as a mediator to export Tajik production to the Eurasian Economic Union market. Significant investments will be needed in the sectors of mutual interest for development, and this will involve the further involvement of the major international partners, Russia and especially China, but also the European Union. Champion local news. Join our community of readers who value daily beat reporting and in-depth stories alike. Your membership allows us to continue the legacy of local, independent journalism in the Roaring Fork Valley. With your support, we can remain a free and accessible source of news for everyone, always without paywalls or corporate influence. Together, we can ensure that vital local stories are told. 4 April 2025 12:58 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more A court hearing is underway in Baku for individuals of Armenian origin accused of committing serious war crimes and crimes against humanity during the years of conflict in Azerbaijans territories, Azernews reports. The trial is being held at the Baku Court Complex under the chairmanship of Zeynal Agayev, judge of the Baku Military Court. At the previous hearing, state prosecutors, victim representatives, and defense lawyers questioned the accused, including Davit Ishkhanyan. The individuals on trial are facing serious charges relating to crimes allegedly committed by the Republic of Armenia, its armed forces, and the so-called Nagorno-Karabakh Republic an illegal entity established during the occupation of Azerbaijani territories. The charges include a wide range of violations: crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, aggressive warfare, genocide, forced displacement of civilians, persecution, torture, military robbery, and other illegal acts. These were reportedly carried out by Armenian forces and unlawful armed groups in the now-liberated territories of Azerbaijan. Fifteen individuals are on trial: Harutyunyan Arayik Vladimiri, Ghukasyan Arkadi Arshavir, Sahakyan Bako Sahaki, Ishkhanyan Davit Rubeni, Manukyan David Azatini, Babayan Davit Klimi, Mnatsakanyan Levon Henrikovich, Beglaryan Vasili Ivani, Ghazaryan Erik Roberti, Allahverdiyan Davit Nelsoni, Stepanyan Gurgen Homeri, Balayan Levon Romiki, Babayan Madat Arakelovich, Martirosyan Garik Grigori, and Pashayan Melikset Vladimiri. They are being prosecuted under multiple articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including but not limited to: Article 100 planning, preparing, initiating and waging an aggressive war Article 102 attacking persons or organizations enjoying international protection Article 103 genocide Article 105 destruction of the population Article 106 slavery Article 107 deportation or forced transfer of population Article 109 persecution Article 110 enforced disappearance of persons Article 112 deprivation of liberty contrary to international law Article 113 torture Article 114 mercenary activities Article 115 violation of the laws and customs of war Article 116 violation of international humanitarian law during armed conflict Article 118 military robbery Article 120 wilful killing Article 192 illegal entrepreneurship Article 214 terrorism Article 214-1 financing of terrorism Article 218 creation of a criminal association Article 228 illegal handling of weapons and explosives Article 270-1 acts threatening aviation security Article 277 assassination of a state or public figure Article 278 forcible seizure and retention of power, or changing the constitutional order Article 279 creation of illegal armed formations The trial is expected to proceed with further testimonies and evidence as Azerbaijan seeks accountability for alleged crimes committed during the decades-long conflict over its occupied territories. 4 April 2025 11:37 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has underscored the growing geopolitical and economic importance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor during her remarks at the EU-Central Asia Summit, Azernews reports. Von der Leyen emphasized that the corridor will serve as a crucial link in enhancing cooperation between Europe and the Central Asian region. In an increasingly fragmented world, the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor will strengthen relations between your countries (the five Central Asian states) and Europe. But infrastructure is not everything, she stated. The EC President also drew attention to the need for smoother border procedures across the region, noting, Border crossings with both Central Asia and the South Caucasus countries are important for reaching the Black Sea. Additionally, von der Leyen addressed the long-standing issue of closed borders in the South Caucasus. She highlighted the potential regional impact of normalization, saying, "This will be a game-changer. This will bring Europe and Central Asia closer than ever before," in reference to the possible opening of borders between Armenia, Turkiye, and Azerbaijan after 30 years. The summit highlighted the EUs deepening engagement with Central Asia and its emphasis on connectivity, regional cooperation, and long-term stability. 4 April 2025 12:16 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more The Authorized Body of the Alat Free Economic Zone participated in Hannover Messe 2025, one of the world's top industrial exhibitions, held from March 31 to April 4 in Hannover, Germany, Azernews reports. The exhibition is renowned for its scale, participation, and visitor numbers. At the event, the Authorized Body had its own stand, where it highlighted the favorable business environment for investors in the Alat Free Economic Zone. The delegation engaged with companies from Germany, China, Italy, Turkiye, Japan, India, South Korea, and other nations, sharing information on the zones unique legislative framework, financial and non-financial incentives, and developed infrastructure, including industrial land with ready-to-use facilities and systems. Representatives also emphasized the zone's advantages and invited foreign investors to establish production facilities. These meetings were a key step in expanding investment opportunities and attracting global investors. 4 April 2025 13:33 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Azerbaijan is launching major initiatives, including the delivery of green energy from wind power plants, both within the country and from Central Asia to Europe. Azernews reports that Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov made this announcement during his speech at the 11th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. Shahbazov noted that last year, natural gas accounted for 13% of electricity production in the European Union, with some countries seeing figures as high as 35-40%. He highlighted several strategic Green Energy CorridorsCaspian Sea-Black Sea-Europe, Central Asia-Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan-Turkiye, and Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkiye-Bulgariathat aim to diversify Europes energy supplies. He also mentioned the establishment of a joint venture between the Central Asia and Azerbaijan Energy Corridor, with funding from the Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Two potential export routes have been identified, and a memorandum of understanding on electricity cooperation between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, and Bulgaria is expected to be signed. Shahbazov expressed confidence that the Southern Gas Corridor will become a major platform for large-scale cooperation, creating new opportunities in energy security. 4 April 2025 14:41 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Kazakhstan, in collaboration with Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan, is launching a large-scale project to build a 'green' energy transmission line across the Caspian Sea, aimed at supplying energy to European markets. Azernews reports this announcement was made by Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during his speech at the 'Central Asia-European Union' summit in Samarkand. In his address, Tokayev outlined his vision for future cooperation between Central Asia and the European Union, emphasizing the need to strengthen trade and economic ties. He stated that Kazakhstan is ready to increase exports to the EU by over $2 billion in 175 categories of goods. Tokayev also invited European companies to utilize the 'Astana' International Financial Center platform to finance such projects. He reaffirmed Kazakhstan's role as a reliable supplier of hydrocarbons to Europe, noting that Kazakhstan accounts for about 13% of the EU's oil imports, most of which are transported through the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC). He expressed appreciation for the EU's support in ensuring the stability of the CPC and the development of alternative routes for raw material transportation. The President also highlighted Kazakhstan's ongoing efforts in renewable energy, such as wind and solar power, and its collaboration with European companies like Total, Eni, and Svevind to produce 'green' hydrogen. In closing, Tokayev thanked the summit participants and European partners for their support in establishing the UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. He believes this center will contribute to the advancement of the '2030 Agenda' and address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges in the region. 4 April 2025 19:31 (UTC+04:00) The 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting continued with 3 plenary sessions - Ministerial Session, Southern Gas Corridor Session: Progress and Next Steps in Successful Operation and Development of Southern Gas Corridor Plenary Session and Green Energy Projects and Green Energy Corridors Plenary Session. Addressing the Ministerial Session, Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijans Minister of Energy, said that natural gas remains a central component of energy mix for a long time will necessitate sustainable investment for sustainable energy security, and lifting the gas-related restrictions today is vital for Europes energy security tomorrow. The Minister added that through coordinated and strong collaboration between Azerbaijan, the EU, energy companies, regional stakeholders, and financial institutions, we can elevate the Southern Gas Corridor - both as a project and a vision - into a new level. It was noted that there is no alternative to diversification for energy security, and the strategic importance of Azerbaijani gas and the Southern Gas Corridor, which supplies 12 countries today, is rooted in this very vision. "Despite the existing restrictions on natural gas, Azerbaijan not only maintained but also enhanced its position as a reliable energy partner, expanding its supply volumes and extending its geographic reach during these years. In 2021, 8.2 bcm of gas were delivered to Europe, and last year, this figure reached 12.9 bcm, an increase of more than 57%. In 2024 approximately 10% of Azerbaijan's gas exports were supplied to Georgia, 39% to Turkiye, while the remaining 51% went to Europe. Currently, the gas volumes requested from Azerbaijan by European countries that are not members of the SGC amount to 14 bcm. Long-term gas contracts between Azerbaijan and European buyers, along with guarantees and financial support from the EU, will be key factors in ensuring the successful expansion of the SGC, ultimately enhancing Europes energy resilience and energy security in the wider region. The expansion of additional volumes is also important for the export of 1.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas, which will be saved as a result of the connection of 2,700 MW green power plants to the grid by the end of 2030, the minister added. The Minister expressed his views about mega initiatives aiming to supply Europe with large volumes of green energy from the Caspian wind farms of Azerbaijan as well as the Central Asia. "The Caspian-Black Sea-Europe Corridor's feasibility study will conclude by mid-2025, with a plan to export 4 GW during the first phase. The feasibility study of the Central Asia-Azerbaijan corridor will be financed by the Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and research work will begin in the second quarter of this year. The Azerbaijan-Turkiye Green Energy Corridor's feasibility study has explored two potential export routes, and today, we will launch another corridor by signing an MoU on green electricity cooperation between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, and Bulgaria," Minister Shahbazov mentioned. "The Southern Gas Corridor plays a long-term and strategic role in the energy security of our region. This project is the embodiment of reliable partnership and mutual trust between our countries. As Turkiye, we are interested in further expanding this cooperation and diversifying energy supplies. Moreover, we are taking important steps to establish a green energy corridor between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye and Bulgaria," said Alparslan Bayraktar, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources of the Republic of Turkiye. Erik Jacobs, Senior Advisor of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Energy Resources (ENR), said: The United States places great value on our relationship with Azerbaijan. The Southern Gas Corridor is a foundation for our successful bilateral partnership based on shared interests. Today, it is a source of great pride for us to participate in the celebration of the Southern Gas Corridor project, which is an example of ingenuity and ambition. President Trump has seen the abundance of US energy as a foundation for American prosperity. The United States is ready to cooperate with its allies and partners to ensure the right of each country to achieve development using its resources. Zhecho Stankov, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Bulgaria, stated: "Bulgaria pursues a consistent policy for the development of its gas infrastructure, in the context of the national and European objectives for interconnected and unified pan-European gas market with secure diversified supplies from trusted suppliers. We confirm our commitment to further leverage on the Southern Gas Corridor partnerships." "Romania remains steadfast in its commitment to regional energy cooperation and the continued expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, a project of paramount strategic importance for Europes energy security. The expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor toward South-Eastern Europe and the Balkans is a crucial step in ensuring secure, predictable, and competitive energy supplies for the region. The Ministerial Meeting in Baku provides a vital platform for dialogue, cooperation, and coordinated action among partners who share the same goal, said SebastianIoan Burduja, Minister of Energy of Romania. Bojan Kumer, Minister of the Environment, Climate and Energy of the Republic of Slovenia, underscored: The Southern Gas Corridor is a vital energy route that provides a stable and strategic link between the Caspian region and European markets. Reliable partners play a key role in the new reality, and Azerbaijan has proved to be just such a partner. Slovenia is committed to this partnership and appreciates the efforts of the European Commission to strengthen this cooperation. Dorin Junghietu, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Moldova expressed his country's support for the development of the Southern Gas Corridor project. Stasa Kosarac, Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of Bosnia and Herzegovina, said: "The gasification of Republika Srpska and the Federation of BiH is one of the primary issues of all levels of government in BiH. Our priority is to ensure energy stability and security, applying the announced decarbonization processes. We are determined to provide more interconnections of natural gas in the Republic of Srpska and the Federation of BiH in order to make this energy source available to citizens and business entities." "Italy recognizes the key role of the Southern Gas Corridor in facilitating the energy transition while ensuring security of supplies. TAP will help strengthen Italy's role as a strategic energy hub by connecting Europe, with Caspian and North Africa and we have already set up the process to increment the pipeline capacity, Vannia Gava, Deputy Minister of the Environment and Energy Security of the Italian Republic, underlined. Vakhtang Tsintsadze, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, said: "Georgias energy strategy aligns with global sustainability goals, highlighting our commitment to reducing carbon emissions while ensuring energy security. It is crucial for Georgia to enhance its renewable energy sector by supporting the optimal development of its abundant hydropower, wind, and solar energy resources. For this reason, we actively support investment in green energy infrastructure. The Black Sea Submarine Cable Project, along with the Southern Gas Corridor, serves as an excellent example of our collective efforts to achieve shared objectives." Boglarka Illes, State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, noted that the Southern Gas Corridor is of strategic importance in the diversification of natural gas supply sources and routes in Southeast Europe and it is also a meaningful evidence of the strategic partnership between Europe and Azerbaijan. Dimitris Skalkos, Secretary General for International Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic mentioned that the Southern Gas Corridor has been successfully operating for the fourth consecutive year. With the construction of TAP, Greece played a major role in the accomplishment of the Southern Gas Corridor. Moreover, the Greece-Bulgaria IGB pipeline and its possible expansion from 3 to 5 bcm, the start of operation of the Alexandroupolis FSRU, as well as the expected completion of the gas interconnector with North Macedonia in March 2026, we further enhance the resilience of the European energy system," the Secretary General added. Nasser Al-Qahtani, Assistant Minister of Energy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, emphasized that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia sees the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan not only as friends, but as strategic partners in shaping a sustainable energy future. Through close cooperation, we can amplify our collective impact, accelerating the deployment of clean energy for the benefit of our peoples and future generations. One of the cornerstones of this shared vision is the Green Corridor Initiative. This initiative supports a more sustainable, resilient, and interconnected energy system-linking Central Asia with Europe," Nasser Al-Qahtani underscored. "The Kazakhstans energy policy is aimed at supporting innovation and sustainable development. We are creating conditions for investments in green energy and in the modernization of gas infrastructure, which will reduce emissions and increase energy efficiency," said Sungat Yessimkhanov, Deputy Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Umid Mamadaminov, Deputy Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan stated: "Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, rich in renewable resources such as solar and wind energy, have the potential to become leaders in the green energy transition. The Green Energy Corridor initiative between our countries is a manifestation of our joint efforts to make the most of this potential and aims to create a sustainable and strong energy network by connecting our energy systems. Sasa Kokovic, Acting Assistant Minister for the Oil and Gas in the inistry of Mining and Energy of the Republic of Serbia, underlined that the Azerbaijani gas, which has long been recognized as part of the solution for diversifying gas supply sources in Europe, has become part of the solution for greater energy security of the Republic of Serbia, but also of the wider region, through the construction of the Serbia-Bulgaria gas interconnection. In the coming period, we expect to deepen our strategic partnership with Azerbaijan by implementing the project to build a gas power plant in Serbia, which also relies on infrastructure connectivity with the Southern Gas Corridor. Serbia remains open to cooperation with countries in our environment, as well as with partners from Central Asia, in various initiatives and projects that would enable greater energy security and security of supply," the Acting Assistant Minister mentioned. Vedran Spehar, State Secretary of the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Croatia, noted that Croatia is committed to clean, affordable energy and the green transition, in line with Europes 2050 climate goals. Through REPowerEU, we are becoming a regional energy hub, expanding our LNG terminal to 6.1 bcm by 2026 with 559 million and investing in new pipelines to Slovenia and Hungary. Our growing partnership with Azerbaijan, strengthened by SOCAR gas supplies since 2024, supports key projects like the Southern Gas Corridor and Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline, the State Secretary emphasized. "North Macedonia is ready for a new energy future. With the construction of new gas interconnections and a partnership with Azerbaijan, we are not only strengthening our position as a significant regional player but also directly contributing to the stability and security of the European energy market, said Miroslav Labudovik, Deputy Minister of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources of the Republic of North Macedonia. Fergus Auld, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Azerbaijan, stated: "The United Kingdom recognises Azerbaijans consistent role in supporting European energy security, providing a reliable energy supply into Europe during turbulent times. I would like to thank Azerbaijan for organising yearly Southern Gas Corridor Ministerial, which continues to provide an important platform to discuss solutions to energy security challenges - and opportunities for economic development. Peter Binhack, Deputy Director General of the Energy Section of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, stated: "Reliable energy partnership remains the cornerstone of the EU-Azerbaijan relations. We believe that the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council meeting provides an important opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen our mutual partnership. At the same time, we see great potential in the development of green energy and international cooperation in this field." The Southern Gas Corridor Session: Progress and Next Steps in Successful Operation and Development of Southern Gas Corridor featured discussions with the participation of the representatives from SOCAR, bp, Azerbaijan Gas Supply Company, TANAP, TAP, XRG, World Bank, Asian Development Bank and European Investment Bank. The Green Energy Projects And Green Energy Corridors Session heard reports by the representatives from AREA, SOCAR, CESI, Masdar, bp, ACWA Power, WindEurope, TotalEnergies, IFC, World Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, European Investment Bank, Asian Development Bank, and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank on transition to green energy, green energy corridors, Caspian Sea-Black Sea-Europe, Central Asia-Azerbaijan-Europe, Azerbaijan-Turkiye-Europe and Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkiye-Bulgaria green energy interconnectors. 4 April 2025 18:06 (UTC+04:00) A signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) was held during the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku. Representatives of ADB and AIIB joined the energy ministers of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan in signing the document. This memorandum envisions cooperation between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan to support the first stage of the feasibility study for the Caspian Green Energy Corridor project. Azerbaijans Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov said: "The unification of the energy systems of Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan is a strategic and historically important project. Joining ADB and AIIB to our Caspian Green Energy Corridor initiative is one of the important advances in the implementation of the project. Our joint cooperation will enable us to start feasibility studies of the project soon. Thanks to this regional green energy initiative, Azerbaijan and Central Asia will realize the first trans-Caspian Energy Corridor. Erlan Akkenzhenov, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, stated: Joint initiatives such as the Green Corridor project demonstrate our determination to strengthen the region's energy systems, promote green technologies, and ensure the sustainable export of green electricity. Together, we create a future where energy is not only a resource but also the foundation of sustainable development and stability. Umid Mamadaminov, Deputy Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, said: The Green Energy Corridor to be established between Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan is an important example of cooperation that turns the renewable energy potential of Central Asia into a reliable and sustainable bridge connecting Europe. This project reflects our commitment to building a green future, promoting economic growth, and ensuring long-term energy security. Mr. Yevgeniy Zhukov, ADBs Director General of Central and West Asia Department, stated: The Caspian Green Energy Corridor initiative is a strategic priority for the three countries, as well as for ADB, as it directly advances our core mission of fostering cross-border cooperation on clean energy infrastructure while simultaneously addressing multiple regional challenges. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is a defining moment in our collaboration and sets the foundation for deeper cooperation between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. It reflects our collective commitment to turning this vision into a transformative regional initiative. Mr. Hong Wei, Head of Client Relations, Public Sector Client Department Region II, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, said: The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is delighted to partner with the governments of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and the Asian Development Bank in supporting the feasibility study of the Caspian Green Energy Corridor project. This project will unlock Central Asias vast clean energy potential, with Azerbaijan playing a critical role as the gateway for green energy flows from Central Asia to Europe. The Agreement between the governments of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the Republic of Uzbekistan on Strategic Partnership in the Development and Transmission of Green Energy was signed by the leaders of the three countries on November 13, 2024, at the COP29 climate conference. 4 April 2025 17:55 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more The Shaki State Drama Theater has hosted a performance of the play "Khurshidbanu Natavan," presented by the Azerbaijan State Academic National Drama Theater. This production is based on the work of the prominent playwright and writer Ilyas Afandiyev (1914-1996). The performance was part of a tour organized by the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, aimed at enhancing cultural life in the regions of the country, improving leisure opportunities for residentsespecially the youthand fostering exchanges with local creative teams. "Khurshidbanu Natavan" tells the story of the life and works, love, and devotion to the homeland of the renowned poetess and public figure Khurshidbanu Natavan, who was the daughter of the last Khan of Garabagh, Mehdigulu Khan Javanshir. The director was the People's Artist Azar Pasha Neymatov (1947-2023), with the set design by the Honored Culture Worker Ilham Elkhanoglu and music composed by People's Artist Siyavush Kerimi. The cast featured prominent artists such as Rafiq Azizov, Malayka Asadova, Kyazim Abdullayev, and Haji Ismayilov, along with distinguished artists Anar Heybatov, Elshan Jabrailov, Elnar Garayev, Mirza Aghabayli, Elvida Jafarov, Aishad Mammadov, Elshan Rustamov, and actors Elchin Afandi, Javidan Novruz, Vusal Mustafayev, Ramin Shikhaliyev, Lala Suleymanova, Mahsati Tahirzade, Rustam Rustamov, Tural Ibrahimov, Firuza Babayeva, Nazrin Abdullayeva, Elsever Ragimov, and Elchin Nuraliyev. The play was met with applause from the theatergoers of Sheki. Khurshidbanu Natavan was born on August 6, 1832, in the town of Shusha. Being the only child in the family and descending from Panah Ali Khan, she was the only heir of the Garabagh khan, known to the general public as the "daughter of the khan". She grew popular through her relationship-themed ghazals and rubayat. Kindness, friendship, humanism and love were the main themes of Natavan's ghazals. Her romantic poems express the feelings and sufferings of a woman who was not happy in her family life and who lost her son. She adopted the pen name Natavan, a Persian term meaning powerless, after her sons tragic death in 1885. Some of her known poems are To My Son, Abbas, Lilac, Beloved, how could you break the oath to me you swore?, and Time has plunged me into an ocean of pain and woeSome of her poems are still used in folk songs. In addition to poetry, Natavan was also engaged in painting. She was exceptionally good at pencil sketching and attractive embroidery as well. Her landscape sketches were the first-of-a-kind in European style in Azerbaijani art, which perfectly combined the concepts of the Western and Oriental art forms. Her embroidery works were regarded as masterpieces. After her father's death, she was closely engaged in philanthropy, promoting the social and cultural development of Garabagh. Even though she took over the Garabagh Empire at a young age of 13, Natavan successfully established her literary career and managed responsibilities of developing her city, Shusha. She did a lot for the welfare of people, including building water works, opening schools and building hospitals. Prominent for her charity and social activity, Natavan was first to provide her home city Shusha with drinking water. Among her famous deeds was a water main that was first laid down in Shusha in 1883, thus solving the water problem of the townsfolk. Moreover, she also did a lot for the development and popularization of the famous breed of Garabagh horses. Garabagh horses from Natavan's stud were known as the best in Azerbaijan. In an international show in Paris in 1867 a Garabagh horse named Khan from Natavan's stud received a silver medal. The daughter of the khan was also active in sponsoring one of the first literary societies. She established the first literary society in Shusha and went on to sponsor several more across the country. Majlis-I Uns (Society of Friends) became a renowned poetic group in Garabagh. In 1858 the poetess met in Baku with the French writer Alexander Dumas, and presented her manual works. The French novelist is said to have been charmed by her oriental beauty, literary and artistic talent. As an honored guest at Natavan's family home, he was given a chess set after playing chess with his host. The Alexandre Dumas Museum in Paris houses a hand-crafted pouch given by Natavan to French writer, when she defeated him in a chess game upon his halt in Shusha during his trip through Caucasus. Natavan died in 1897 in Shusha. As a sign of respect, people carried her coffin on their shoulders all the way from Shusha to Agdam, some 30 km north-east, where she was buried in a family vault. 4 April 2025 10:33 (UTC+04:00) On April 4, the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting were held at the Gulustan Palace in Baku. Azernews reports that the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, attended the event. Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijans Minister of Energy, said: - Your Excellency, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, dear Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Mr. Dan Jrgensen, distinguished ministers, dear guests, ladies and gentlemen. It's my great honor to welcome you to the 11th Ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. This gathering marks yet another significant milestone in our successful efforts to strengthen the synergy between energy security and energy transition within this framework. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, for his steadfast leadership and unwavering support in driving this success. It's now my distinct privilege to invite His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev to deliver the keynote address. x x x The President of Azerbaijan addressed the event. Speech by President Ilham Aliyev - Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, dear guests. I welcome you all to Azerbaijan. A special welcome to our guest from Brussels. Mr. Commissioner, welcome. This is the first time you are participating in this event. But as we all know, and as I already said, it is the eleventh time that the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council has gathered in Baku. Initiated by Azerbaijan and supported by the European Commission, this important gathering has played a crucial role in elaborating approaches to energy security, addressing the issues of energy security, and coordinating our joint efforts. And today, while we had a family photo procedure, I said that we will probably need more space for that because the team is growing. And this is a very good sign of our cooperation. The more time passes, the more countries and companies are involved in the process, united with a common goal. First, to strengthen cooperation, because without cooperation none of the energy security projects would be possible. And second, to provide energy security for themselves, their neighbors, and their partners. I think the very positive spirit of partnership and cooperation that unites us is a clear demonstration of our responsibility the responsibility of producers, transitors, and consumers. Of course, the balance of interests between the three major actors of this process, with the support of international financial institutions, made our story or stories success stories. Countries, their governments, investors, companies, and leading international financial institutions this is our team, and the team is growing. It is clear today, more than ever before, that energy security is an integral part of the national security of countries. I would also say that today we can also talk about industrial security, because in order to develop industries, we need energy resources, we need petrochemicals, we need fertilizers. And Azerbaijan is a producer and exporter of crude oil, natural gas, oil products, petrochemicals, and fertilizers. And our energy company, SOCAR, is involved in upstream, downstream, and midstream activities in Azerbaijan and outside our boundaries. Azerbaijan, for many years, was and will be a reliable partner. And as high representatives of the European Commission noted, Azerbaijan is a reliable partner in the field of energy and a pan-European gas supplier. This is true. The geography of our gas supply is growing. Since our last meeting here in Baku, at the 10th Advisory Council, five more countries have become recipients of our natural gas. Today, Azerbaijan supplies natural gas to 12 countries 10 of them are European, and eight of those are members of the European Union. The geography of our gas supply in Europe will definitely grow, because today we are already involved in the creation of gas distribution networks in some European countries. Some of them do not have one, some of them need to expand it, and Azerbaijan, as an investor, is planning to do that. So, the geography of our gas supplies will definitely grow through different ways, including interconnectors. Of course, we need to think about joint efforts in the expansion of the existing gas pipeline system. The Southern Gas Corridor is a tremendous success story for all of us. The 3,500-kilometer integrated pipeline system today is the main artery for energy security for many countries. And now it is working at full capacity. Whether its the South Caucasus Pipeline, TANAP, or TAP three integral parts of the Southern Gas Corridor all are fully packed. So we need to expand. And for that, we will need, of course, financing. And we come to a very important point, which we have raised on several occasions that international financial institutions, those who decided to stop financing fossil fuel projects, will probably reconsider their policy, especially taking into account the huge geopolitical changes that we all witness. Because without that, any further investments in transportation infrastructure and even in upstream will be very problematic. We have great experience in combining corporate financing and borrowed money, which made it possible to implement huge projects of production and transportation. ACG, Shahdeniz, Absheron these are oil and gas fields which today provide energy security for many countries. And many more oil and gas fields will be operational within several years. So, contracts have been signed. The working program has been approved. Construction of pipelines also the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan and Baku-Supsa oil pipelines, as well as the Southern Gas Corridor all that was done in cooperation, as I said, by all the actors. So, when the policy to stop financing fossil fuel projects is introduced, it sends a signal to investors, to companies, to countries, which is not positive. So, I think this is an important moment, which will probably be discussed. We hope that, despite a very ambitious green agenda in Europe, fossil fuel producers and fossil fuel as an important factor of energy security will not be forgotten and will not be discriminated. Actually, that was our message at COP29 when Azerbaijan hosted this global international event that there should be no discrimination, there should be no dividing lines between countries rich in fossil fuels and those who dont have them. On the contrary, countries rich in fossil fuels that invest in renewables must be praised, not attacked. So, I think that if this important issue is addressed, it will make the lives of producers easier. At the same time, the long-term contracts process is also important. Because we all know that energy projects oil and gas need a lot of investments, and you recover investments over many years. By the way, until today, what we invested in the Southern Gas Corridor as a country has still not been recovered. We still have not reached the zero balance. Therefore, we must be sure that our gas will be needed in Europe, which is our main market, for many more years. If we dont have this guarantee, investors will not invest, and the country will not invest. So there will be a big shortage of natural gas. Our reserves are known. We expect new production from new fields this year primarily from the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli Deep Gas Structure. And also, we are, I think, in the final stage of reaching an agreement about the expansion of production from the Absheron Field, moving to Phase 2, which will add a minimum of 3 BCM to the existing 1.5. So, all of this is possible, but it requires, as I said, these two important factors physical transportation infrastructure through interconnectors and through expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, and reliable forecasts and reliable partnership. Because in a partnership, all sides must be reliable. With respect to our green agenda, as I said, we managed to combine these two important factors, satisfying the needs of our consumers. By the way, since Azerbaijan and the European Commission signed a declaration on strategic partnership in the field of energy, our gas supply to Europe has increased by almost 60%. That declaration was signed by the President of the European Commission and myself in mid-2022. In 2021, our gas supply to Europe was about 8 BCM. Last year, it was almost 13. So, it is more than half of our total export, which is 25 BCM, and which will grow. So, it is a substantial amount already today. Taking into account our plans to engage new fields and also to increase production from existing gas fields, we will definitely have much more gas for our consumers. If we add our green agenda, which will save us a lot of natural gas, we can imagine that Azerbaijan will play an even more important role for our partners with respect to energy security. Today, already signed contracts with our investors on Solar and Wind Power stations will allow us to have, by 2030, 6 GW of solar and wind energy. As I said, that will save a lot of natural gas, which we currently use to produce electricity domestically, and all of that will be available for export. We are actively developing this ourselves with our own investments. Regarding hydropower potential today in the territories liberated from Armenian occupation East Zangezur and Karabakh we have already installed 270 megawatts of hydropower stations. More than 30 small hydropower stations have already been inaugurated, and in the next maximum five years, this number will grow up to 500 megawatts, with an additional 30 small hydropower stations. So, that will eventually, by 2030, create an energy potential of 6.5 gigawatts. And just for your information, today Azerbaijans installed capacity is slightly more than eight. So, we will almost double our potential to produce energy from renewables within the next five years. Of course, today I'm sure that at the session of the Green Energy Advisory Council, the green cable from Azerbaijan to Europe will also be discussed. As far as I was informed, the feasibility study of that project is in the final stage. So, after it is fully completed, the practical negotiations will definitely start again with respect to financing. Of course, we can anticipate that there will be no restrictions on financing the green energy project. But I think it will be important to upgrade these projects within European institutions to projects of common interest because that is what they are. So, I will probably conclude now by once again expressing deep satisfaction with the results we have achieved through the active format of our cooperation. Yes, we gather once a year in Baku, but throughout the year there are numerous events, meetings, conferences, and bilateral and multilateral partnership formats, which actually create the synergy. And, as always at the Advisory Council, we review what has been done during the last year and plan our future steps. I wish both councils success. x x x A total of 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, seven international financial institutions, and 42 energy companies participated in the meeting. The event was attended by ministers, deputy ministers, and other high-level representatives. After the opening session, the meeting proceeded with three plenary sessions - Ministerial Session, Southern Gas Corridor Session: Progress and Next Steps in Successful Operation and Development of Southern Gas Corridor Plenary Session and Green Energy Projects and Green Energy Corridors Plenary Session. Under the framework of the Advisory Council, the second Ministers' Meeting on the transmission and trade of green energy between Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Georgia, and Bulgaria was held. An informal Steering Committee/Ministers' Meeting on the Caspian-Black Sea-European Green Energy Corridor also took place, alongside a roundtable on the development of offshore wind energy between Azerbaijan and the European Union. During the event, several documents aimed at enhancing cooperation in the energy sector were signed. The ministerial meetings under the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council have been held regularly since February 2015. 4 April 2025 16:58 (UTC+04:00) The importance of cooperation between Azerbaijan and other part of Europe is growing. Green energy should also be mentioned here. Azerbaijan and Slovenia enjoy constructive relations. We are a small country to some extent and energy dependent. We acknowledge the importance of energy supply, realizing that this serves as the main criterion for economic development, said Bojan Kumer, Slovenian Minister of the Environment, Climate and Energy, as he addressed the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku. He noted that the political situation has changed significantly in recent years, making the diversification of energy resources and routes more crucial than ever. Looking at this new reality, a reliable partnership is essential. Azerbaijan has clearly demonstrated this. Slovenia is committed to this partnership and supports the European Commission's efforts to strengthen this collaboration, he added. Describing the Southern Gas Corridor as a very important route linking the Caspian Sea region to European markets, the minister emphasized: If we look to the future, we must admit that our energy security cannot be limited to natural gas alone. Azerbaijans COP Presidency has become a clear signal for action on climate change and addressing the existing challenges related to it. Therefore, we must take decisive steps and strengthen cooperation in clean green energy, as well as hydrogen. Slovenia sincerely wishes to enhance its cooperation with Azerbaijan, particularly in gas supply. Additionally, we are interested in other clean energy technologies and are expanding our collaboration in the energy sector. 4 April 2025 12:39 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Azerbaijan's gas exports to Europe have doubled, reaching 14 billion cubic meters. Azernews reports that Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov made this announcement during his speech at the 11th meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. He emphasized the need for rapid development of Azerbaijans production projects, expansion of pipeline transportation capacity, and the construction of a centralized compressor station. Shahbazov also highlighted the potential for long-term gas contracts between Azerbaijan and European consumers, which would offer a key guarantee for the European Union. He stressed that expanding the Southern Gas Corridor would significantly enhance Europe's energy security, and with strong cooperation among Azerbaijan, the EU, energy companies, and regional partners, the corridor could reach a new level. 4 April 2025 09:00 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. The Turkish Ministry of Commerce is taking all necessary steps to support companies operating in the e-commerce sector. The target of $8 billion in online exports for the current year is well within reach, Azernews reports. Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention. Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis. By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more. Subscribe You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper Thank you! 4 April 2025 19:46 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva Uzbekistan has pledged to make every effort to fulfill the country's commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% ahead of schedule as part of the Paris Agreement, Azernews reports. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev made this statement at the opening of the International Climate Forum, held within the framework of the Central Asia-European Union summit. Mirziyoyev reminded the audience that Uzbekistan has already begun transitioning to a resource-efficient and environmentally friendly model of economic development, with green energy being a key priority. "We plan to increase the share of renewable energy sources in the total energy mix to 54% over the next five years. This will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by almost 16 million tons. We will make every effort to ensure that Uzbekistan meets its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% under the Paris Agreement ahead of schedule," he said. The President of Uzbekistan also proposed establishing the secretariat of the European Union initiative "Water, Energy, Climate Change" in Tashkent, aimed at mobilizing financing, technology, and expertise. "As part of the implementation of our common strategic goals, the concept of 'green' development for the region will be presented at the forum. I am confident that its adoption and subsequent implementation will create a solid foundation for the environmentally sustainable development of Central Asia," Mirziyoyev added. Uzbekistans commitment to reducing emissions comes at a crucial moment for the region. Central Asia, a landlocked and resource-dependent region, faces significant environmental challenges, including water scarcity, energy inefficiency, and the effects of climate change. Transitioning to renewable energy sources will not only contribute to global climate goals but also reduce the region's reliance on fossil fuels, which dominate the energy sector. In recent years, Uzbekistan has made significant strides in adopting green technologies, including solar and wind energy projects, positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable development. The proposed establishment of a secretariat for the EUs "Water, Energy, Climate Change" initiative in Tashkent underscores Uzbekistans increasing role in global environmental diplomacy and its desire to strengthen ties with Europe in addressing common environmental challenges. The green development strategy for Central Asia, if successfully implemented, could pave the way for other Central Asian nations to follow suit, fostering a regional effort to combat climate change while supporting economic growth through green technologies. Its a step toward building a more resilient and sustainable future for a region that is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Elephant Seal Resting on N. Oregon Coast Beach While Molting: Stay Away - Video Published 04/01/25 at 6:35 p.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Seaside, Oregon) A young elephant seal was found on Seaside's beach early Tuesday morning, and while it is cute and even sometimes visibly in pain, humans need to stay far away from the little one. (Photos and video Seaside Aquarium) It's a fairly common occurrence on Oregon coast beaches this time of year, said Tiffany Boothe of Seaside Aquarium. This elephant seal is going through its annual molt, which is a normal process and it is resting, Boothe said. Stay at least 100 yards away and keep dogs on a leash. It does not need to be fed and do not pour water on this animal; it can get to the water on its own. Boothe said it is being monitored by volunteers with the West Coast Marine Mammal Stranding Network. Indeed, any disturbance of the creature violates federal law. Seaside Aquarium deals with these kinds of strandings a lot, as well as other seals, sea lions, whales and sharks. In such past incidents, Boothe told Oregon Coast Beach Connection that coming up onto to beach raises the body temperature of the molting seal, helping the molting process go by more quickly. The ordeal takes weeks. Young elephant seals use the beach while they molt, a process where the seal loses all of its fur and re-grows a new coat, Boothe said. Salt water would irritate the sores that they get during their molt, so they choose to haul out of the water. The only thing they need in these cases is peace and quiet and time. In other past incidents, Seaside Aquarium manager Kieth Chandler told Oregon Coast Beach Connection he urges everyone to keep away from any of these creatures, and said there are various reasons for concern in a situation involving people and animals washing up. Were always concerned for their safety, Chandler said. They may be slow, not feeling well and lethargic, but they can still deliver a powerful bite and injure a person. Theres also the worry about dogs. They can get sick from coming into contact with an elephant seal. Well-meaning people try to help, but the aquarium has said that if you don't know what you're doing, you can cause more harm than ever. Chandler said people often make things worse when doing anything at all. They tend to bring buckets of water and pour it on the seal, thinking that will help, Chandler said. But thats exactly the opposite of what youre supposed to do. They come to the beach to get away from the saltwater, as that hurts them while theyre molting. The northern elephant seal is the largest of the true seals in the Northern Hemisphere, Boothe said. Adult males use their large, inflatable noses during the winter breeding season to resonate sound when vocally threatening each other, she said. The largest colonies of northern elephant seals are found off southern California in the Channel Islands. They have one of the longest migrations of any mammal; some have been recorded traveling over 13,000 miles roundtrip. Hotels in Seaside - Where to eat - Seaside Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Florence Rhododendron Fest Offers Further Preview: Adds Oregon Coast Radio Host Published 03/30/25 at 6:35 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Florence, Oregon) Among the largest festivals on the entire coastline, Florence's Rhododendron Festival brings thousands to the little town each May and it's almost the oldest celebrations in all of Oregon. Now in its 118th year, it takes place from May 15 to May 18, celebrating the theme "Rhodies on the River." This beloved annual tradition has been enjoyed by generations of families who come together to experience the carnival hosted by Davis Shows, showcase their rhododendrons, display classic cars and motorcycles, participate in parades, and explore the shops and restaurants in Old Town and across the city. Offering some more previews, this time around the festival has chosen Coast Radios KCST morning host Wayne Sharpe as Grand Marshal of the 118th annual Florence Rhododendron Festival Parade, which happens on May 18. Its because of his extensive long-time community involvement and generally high profile that Sharpe was picked. Over the years, Sharpe has engaged with the Siuslaw area in numerous ways. Florence Chamber President Hannigan described the festival as a cherished family tradition and an iconic event in Oregon, encouraging everyone to visit Florence, known as Oregons Coastal Playground, and immerse themselves in the excitement and grandeur of the state's second-longest running floral festival. The festivities begin on May 10, the Saturday preceding the third weekend in May, with the coronation of Queen Rhododendra, the King of the Coast, and their royal court at the Florence Events Center. Thursday marks the opening of the Davis Shows Carnival at the Port of Siuslaw property in Old Town. Saturday brings the annual 5K Rhody Run and Walk, the junior parade with activities for children, the Rhody Classic Car Show n Shine, and the Coast Radio Classic Car Cruise through Old Town. The grand floral parade on Sunday starts at noon on Highway 101, beginning at 27th Street and winding through Historic Old Town. Throughout the festival, attendees can enjoy the vendors fair in Old Town, admire the rhododendron showcase at the Florence Events Center, and experience live music, art, and other activities and events spread across the city. To learn more about the Florence Rhododendron Festival visit RhodyDays.net. The only festival older than this Oregon coast staple is the Rose Fest in Portland. Sharpe himself represents some of the town's recent history. When Linda and I got here in 92, Florence only had around 4500 to 5000 people, recalled Sharpe. Its practically doubled since then. We raised two of our kids here who went through all grades in the Siuslaw School District. Were proud of that. Weve seen a lot of changes. The town basically ended where the new fire station is at 26th Street. I worked briefly at Bi-Mart, which was then considered way out of town. Weve seen the development of the Florence Events Center, the hospital in its current location, the current library, the casino, and lots of businesses that have come and gone. The Rhododendron Festival is much bigger now, and the parade has more out-of-town entries than before. Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted 10 Odd Things That Were Blown Up on Oregon Coast (or just exploded) Published 03/31/25 at 7:35 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Waldport, Oregon) Counting major road construction 100 years ago or the top of Tillamook Rock, a surprising amount of stuff has been blown up on the Oregon coast. And (mostly) on purpose. That includes two whales, various famous rock attractions, a bridge, a couple of shipwrecks, one ghost ship, and apparently even a satellite. (Photo of New Carissa / BLM) Dig into a kooky list (with the first being things like dynamiting the top of Tillamook Rock to make way for the lighthouse). Sacred Rock at Bandon Courtesy Bandon History Museum Until Euro settlers arrived, tribes in the Bandon area had a friend in what they called Grandmother Rock, a formation that stood far above the beach (where a retirement home is now). As they took over, the rock was redubbed Tupper Rock after a former captain named Tupper and his hotel next to it. Grandmother was a sacred place to the first locals, however. The rock became quite a tourist attraction all its own, with settlers building a massive stairway to its top, including a bandstand where a whole wind ensemble would perform. Then in 1883, locals decided the landmark wasn't needed as much as rocks for the new jetty, and dynamite was taken to it numerous times until it became a quarry tens of feet deep. Bandon's Tupper Rock history. Exploding Ship That Steered Itself Courtesy North Lincoln County Historical Museum On Wednesday, May 18, 1910, the steam schooner J. Marhoffer was about four miles off this coastline when the engine room caught fire. One major explosion after another happened, with all crewmen managing to get into lifeboats, but for a time the steamer did at least one circle by itself just offshore as it was blowing up. Darkness was already falling and quite a few could see the fiery vessel racing at full speed all by itself, finally hitting the shoreline in another big fireball. The resulting conflagration could be seen miles in either direction. The boiler of the Marhoffer is still there: you know the place as Boiler Bay near Depoe Bay. Boiler Bay and the J. Marhoffer Shipwreck: Oregon Coast History Exploding Whale of Warrenton By September 1 of 1937, Warrenton residents had had quite enough of a nasty smelling whale carcass that had grown well... beyond all believable bounds - in odoriferousness. Locals had been arguing with the state over who would be responsible for the stinky beast, since it had landed on mudflats and not the beach itself. The dirty deed apparently fell in their own laps. So, they took their destiny into their own hands and yes....they blew up the whale. This was thirty years before the well-known Exploding whale. Warrenton Had an 'Exploding Whale' 30 Years Before A huge crowd had gathered, and by all accounts in the newspapers it went about as well as you can guess: cars and people were soaked in whale blood 'n guts. Yes, Florence had a prequel. Yet even with this horrific outcome, Oregon officials considered it a success. Periodically, other whale carcasses were discussed in terms of dynamite but luckily none went that route until the big one, that is. Iredale Nearly Blown Up in WWII In the early '40s, the wreck of the Peter Iredale nearly bit it. In an extremely rare event, a Japanese sub fired upon Fort Stevens in the middle of one June night, narrowly missing the fort and the Iredale. There were craters the size of a human lying around, including at least one close to the wreck. After that, patrols regularly paced the Oregon coast beaches and there was even barbed wire strung along this stretch, including through the wreck itself. See full story Where a Japanese Sub Fired on Oregon: Battery Russell and Fort Stevens Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach Courtesy Cannon Beach History Museum - note the ledge at bottom Not very well-known in the history of Cannon Beach is that Haystack Rock had to be blown up a bit to be safer. By the late '60s, there had been numerous mishaps of people climbing the rock and getting injured or worse. Tourists behaving badly was about half of it the other was that it and other sea stacks on the coast had been declared wildlife refuges. One Tuesday morning they took dynamite to a lower ledge that allowed people to start their climb, thus changing the face of the rock forever. When They Blasted Haystack Rock Exploding Whale November 1970: you know the story. They blew up a whale carcass, and boy, did it backfire. Nov. 12 is Happy Exploding Whale Day, New Facts Blasting Heceta Head Courtesy Heceta Head Lighthouse Interpretive Center - part of the rock blasted away On March 3, 1986, one of the rocks below Heceta Head received the dynamite treatment from Oregon officials. There's a little bit of mystery here in that this was supposed to be done in 1983 but for some reason it was suddenly postponed. The landmark near Florence was in the same situation as Haystack Rock nearly 20 years earlier: people kept getting hurt. Seven either drowned or were injured during the '70s. So again, blasting had to be done to keep people from hopping onto the rocks. Waldport's Bridge The Alsea Bay Bridge you see now is the second one over Waldport's bay. The first was built in '36 by famed architect Conde McCullough, but in the '70s it became clear it would have to be replaced. In 1991, the new one was finished right next to the old bridge, and Oregon officials blew it up and dismantled it. Blowing Up the New Carissa Early 1999 was a wacky time to live in Oregon. New technologies allowed all of us to watch a strange shipwreck drama play out in Coos Bay and then also in Waldport. It's like a news story with a sequel. Two halves of the ship - BLM The 639-foot New Carissa ran aground on the south coast and it was soon discovered it was leaking oil all over the place. A week later, February 10, the Navy tried to set the oil on fire to burn it off all on live TV. Yet to the amazement of perhaps millions, it only separates the ship in half. Another attempt to burn it doesn't work, and the bow that was getting towed out to sea broke loose and wandered for days until it ended up in Waldport. Wild Tale of New Carissa Wreck Began on Oregon Coast (Photos) SpaceX Satellite in Waldport Many still remember the striking and frightening sight of a SpaceX rocket launch gone wrong, and it leaves a streak of destruction across the skies of the Northwest. That happened in late March of '21, and then a bit later a chunk of it was found in a Washington field. In April, another mysterious piece was found on a beach near Waldport, and it had authorities and residents a bit spooked. SpaceX never fessed up to it being theirs, but they did advise Lincoln County Sheriffs it would be okay to move and not endanger anyone. SpaceX Rocket Debris Found on Oregon Coast Oregon Coast Hotels in this area - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted The public has been repeatedly told that elections are the safest and most secure ones possible. Democrats often champion isolated incidents of voter fraud as proof the system works because the fraud is being caught. The political right claims that those caught are the tip of the iceberg. The political left claims such cases are isolated incidents, needles in the proverbial election haystack. But now an Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, whistleblower has come forward, an agent with decades of experience in state and federal law enforcement, to say that he has arrested hundreds of illegal immigrants and they regularly bragged to him that they are voting in state and federal elections. https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/04/ice-whistleblower-i-detained-hundreds-illegals-active-voting/ In the span of less than a week in mid-March, the Republican-leaning Iowa and the deeper red Idaho and Missouri found catastrophic issues with their respective voter rolls. On March 14, Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins released a statement saying they found and subsequently removed 18,637 voters who are deceased. Just The News added, however, that Missouri has also since removed a number of other problematic voter registrations, including 133,520 inactive voters and another 4,000-plus voters who had either moved or were disqualified (due to a felony, for example). Then, on March 19, Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane announced that his administration had cleared out a whopping 144,121 voter records statewide due to inactivity, change of address, or ineligibility. Just a day after that, Iowa Secretary of State Paul D. Pate announced that his team had uncovered and removed another 277 confirmed noncitizens who have voted or are registered to vote. Add it up, and youre looking at close to 300,000 problematic voter registrations being uncovered in a matter of six days. https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/04/three-gop-states-find-300000-bad-voter-registrations/ latest | Michelle ONeill hits out at Trumps race to the bottom as business chief warns no good news for NI Business chiefs also wary about what new US taxes mean for us Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Finance Minister John O'Dowd and First Minister Michelle O'Neill, speaking to media at Parliament Buildings in Stormont (Liam McBurney/PA Wire) Margaret Canning and Kurtis Reid Fri 4 Apr 2025 at 07:53 First Minister Michelle ONeill has said tariffs announced by Donald Trump have brought instability and mark a race to the bottom. Music and Gigs Review: This is the best Oasis have been since 96 some might say better... a rock reunion to end them all NI childcare crisis forcing parents to choose between family and career Mums and dads will take to the streets of Belfast on Saturday to protest about high costs which are pricing them out of jobs Becca Harper, co-founder of Melted Parents NI Mark Bain Fri 4 Apr 2025 at 07:49 Northern Ireland is in the grip of a childcare crisis and it goes much deeper than parents simply being able to afford the cost. Teaching union members during a protest at Belfast City Hall last year. The Education Minister has welcomed a decision by the Northern Ireland Teachers' Council (NITC) to accept a 5.5% pay offer for teachers. The pay settlement has been agreed by the Teachers Negotiating Committee (TNC) and will bring to an end ongoing industrial action. The announcement comes after the majority of teachers in Northern Ireland rejected a 5.5% pay offer for a second time last week. Jacquie White, General Secretary of the Ulster Teachers Union (UTU), noted that "the sticking point since the previous offer last month focused on that workload issue and we welcome the fact that the Minister is finally seeking to formally address this, though we regret it could not have been resolved sooner". This is in reference to Paul Givan's new promise to conduct an Independent Review of all aspects of workload, that will be taken forward by a three-member panel. This will comprise of an independent chair appointed by Mr Givan, a member nominated by the unions and a member nominated by Management Side. The Panel will examine workload and report to me by the end of November 2025, continued the minister. It will also monitor the implementation of the Heads of Agreement commitments issued alongside the Management Side pay offer. The new pay settlement will see the starting salary for graduate teachers increasing to 31,650 - an increase of 1,650 over the year. New teachers are now being paid 7,513 more than the salary paid prior to the Executive returning last year, added the education minister. Todays pay award reflects the value that I place on those working in education," Paul Givan continued. "It firmly demonstrates my support for teachers and recognises the vital contribution they make to childrens life chances. The Department of Education anticipates that the pay increase will be applied to most teachers this May. Paul Givan A full-time teacher on the starting salary would receive 1,237.50 in back pay (before statutory deductions) for the period from 1 September 2024 to 31 May 2025. A full-time teacher on Upper Pay Scale Point 3 would receive 1,913.25 in back pay (before statutory deductions) for this same period. Mr Givan said that intensive work had taken place to find the funding from within the 2024/25 education budget to enable the department offer a 5.5% pay increase, which has now been accepted by all five trade unions that make up the teachers council. The pay increase will cost 48.5m in 2024/25 with a recurring full year cost of 83 million. Teaching union members during a protest at Belfast City Hall last year. News Catch Up - Friday 4th April Justin McCamphill, National Official for Northern Ireland's teachers' union, said that while they celebrate this win for teachers, they "cannot ignore the ongoing injustice faced by our Further Education colleagues". "FE lecturers have been undervalued for too long," he added. (Economy) Minister (Caoimhe) Archibald must now step in to ensure they receive a fair and sustainable settlement, just as Minister Givan has done for teachers. "Further Education is vital to Northern Irelands economy, and its staff deserve respect and recognition. Members of the CRAM campaign group outside the Guildhall Members of the CRAM campaign group outside the Guildhall ahead of a council meeting Residents living in streets surrounding Ulster Universitys Magee campus have expressed their frustration that their communities could be turned into a Derry Holylands. Kathleen Feeney and Stella ODonnell from the Concerned Residents Around Magee (CRAM) group delivered a presentation to the local council laying out detailed objections to an influx of students. It comes amid plans to double student numbers at Magee to 10,000 in the next seven years. The group was set up due to the high number of students in the area with some streets exceeding 30%. Ms Feeney said the residents want assurances of a 10% cap on the number of Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The meeting heard the councils local development plan (LDP) will give the council greater control over the concentration of HMOs in areas, but it could take between 18 months to two years before the LDP is adopted. CRAM fears further ghettoization of the streets around Magee and the creation of a Derry Holylands, she said. The Holylands is a densely populated student area in Belfast that has been prone to anti-social behaviour over the years. Ms ODonnell added that the character of the area is changing rapidly and their main priority as residents and voters is for the council to speak with a united voice on the issue. She said theyve read in papers and heard on the radio how different agencies have been engaging with residents. Well, we are those residents, she added, and we can assure you that level of engagement is not happening. "We have had zero feedback or information from the council, the (Magee) Taskforce or Ulster University that has not been initiated by CRAM. Therefore, local residents should be involved directly in conversations, plans and proposals being made on our behalf. We reject the view that our claims are perceived and not reality. Our claims are lived experience. Looking to the councils chief executive, John Kelpie, she said that at a previous meeting, he had apologised if the council got it wrong and she told him, now is the time to get it right. The continued approval of HMOs and character changing developments including flat conversions, guest houses and Airbnbs in an extremely dense residential area is causing immense stress and anxiety to residents, Ms ODonnell told councillors. Figures obtained by this newspaper under the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act show that Queens University Belfast, spent more than 106m of its own money on student accommodation between 2012/13 and 2023/24 with a total capital spend of around 414.9m By comparison, UU had a total capital spend of 7m in Derry between 2012/13 to 2022/23 and wouldnt confirm how much of that went into accommodation. Members of the CRAM campaign group outside the Guildhall However, a report by the Magee Taskforce noted that at present there were 831 bed places for more than 5,000 students. Rosemount resident, Mary Gallagher, told the Belfast Telegraph that the university seems to be abdicating responsibility for student accommodation to private developers. Its as if they have no real plan to accommodate thousands of additional students by 2032, Ms Gallagher said, that is an enormous gap in their planning. Its morally indefensible that thousands of students are going to be coming here to live and fighting over limited accommodation. Greedy private developers are going to be allowed to come in and make money because UU is not providing alternative accommodation. Residents fear that any delay in imposing an HMO cap could lead to a spike in application approvals, as currently applications rejected at the council can be overturned by the Planning Appeals Commission. People Before Profit councillor Shaun Harkin said this is a way to protect residential areas. He said locals support university expansion but want areas protected, respected and benefitting from the development of the city. Sinn Fein councillor Grace Ui Niallais said they have taken residents concerns on board and that is reflected in the LDP. UUP councillor Derek Hussey spoke of being a student 58 years ago and adding that his three children also attended university, whether it was Edinburgh or Liverpool. The difference was, he said, that he stayed in university student accommodation, as did his eldest for three years, while his youngest children moved into an HMO in their final year. So the universities that they were attending, took their responsibility of housing the people they were bringing in. He said it happens in Belfast with UU and QUB and it is an absolute disgrace that it isnt happening in Derry. Where is the university living up to its responsibilities? he added. A proposal was tabled to immediately introduce a 10% cap on HMOs in any area. SDLP councillor Rory Farrell asked when a 10% cap on HMOs can realistically be introduced. City solicitor Philip Kingston said a proposal couldnt be taken but a paper can be brought forward at next months planning committee. UU has been contacted for comment. I remember his last words: I cannot take any more, Mummy: Boy (6) who waited five hours in Irish hospital died by natural causes Logan Murphy (6) was not assessed by a doctor for over five hours after arrival despite a GP noting the referral as urgent Patrick & Lei Murphy give reaction to inquest verdict Ralph Riegel Fri 4 Apr 2025 at 08:58 A mother has said that no parent should have to bury their child after an inquest heard her six-year-old son suffered a fatal cardiac arrest just 24 hours after he was admitted to a hospital complaining of abdominal pain. Adam Krzan was found with serious injuries at a flat in the Corrainey Park area of Dungannon, Co Tyrone on February 27, and later died (PSNI/PA) Detectives investigating the murder of pensioner Adam Krzan in Co Tyrone have charged a second man. Mr Krzan, 71, was found with serious injuries at a flat in the Corrainey Park area of Dungannon on February 27, and later died. Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Irelands Major Investigation Team said a 34-year-old has been charged with a number of offences including assisting an offender, withholding information and perverting the course of justice. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content He is expected to appear before Dungannon Magistrates Court on Friday. A 33-year-old man was earlier charged with murder and with robbery and going equipped for burglary. He will also appear in court on Friday. A gorse fire in Co Antrim needed more than 50 firefighters to bring it under control, with 10 acres alight at the peak of the blaze. Fire crews dealing with a fire front of 200 metres, were finally able to scale back their operation on Friday evening, after being called to the Lisboy Road area of Ballymoney shortly after 4pm. Two appliances and a specialist vehicle remained at the scene for a few hours extra, before the incident was eventually fully resolved. Firefighters tackling large gorse fire in Co Antrim. Photo NIFRS At one point, seven fire appliances and 51 firefighters were in attendance at the incident near the Co Antrim town. Locals had been asked to avoid the area to help support firefighting operations. A spokesman from the NIFRS said: Following an initial call just after 4pm on Friday 4th April 2025, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service has been tackling a wildfire on Lisboy Road, Ballymoney of approximately 10 acres with a fire front of 200 metres. Seven fire appliances and 51 firefighters are in attendance from Ballymoney, Ballymena, Ballycastle, Coleraine and Maghera Fire Stations supported by a Command Support Unit and other specialist vehicles. Firefighters tackling large gorse fire in Co Antrim. Photo NIFRS The NIFRS later confirmed that all resources left the scene by 10.18pm. It comes after a number gorse fires have swept across parts of the Northern Irish countryside in the past week as the spell of dry weather continues. Earlier this week NIFRS said they believed some have been sparked deliberately. On April 2 firefighters extinguished a 10-acre gorse fire in the Sperrin Mountains. A day prior they responded to a gorse fire covering 25 acres in Warrenpoint which was ignited deliberately. Meanwhile the PSNI has said that officers have been deployed to undergo additional patrols in the Mournes Mountain area. Encompassing almost 9000 acres of land, the natural beauty spot will be under watch from officers in 4x4 vehicles, motorcycles, quads as well as aerial support. District Commander Superintendent Norman Haslett said: Gorse fires can cause untold damage and in an area of outstanding natural beauty like the Mournes, this is particularly devastating, not to mention the risk to life and property that they pose. We have been implementing additional preventative patrolling in the area, deploying officers on vehicles like 4x4s, motorcycles and our quad bike which can access more remote areas. We have also been utilising Air Support to give us an aerial overview of the mountains. Firefighters tackling large gorse fire in Co Antrim. Photo NIFRS News Catch Up - Friday 4th April He added: Wildfires are completely avoidable and are more often than not, they are caused by human activity - whether this is through carelessness and inattention, or deliberate and malicious fire setting. They are devastating to the environment and ultimately risk the lives of people in the local area and those of the emergency services tasked to deal with them. "Deliberately setting a wildfire is a criminal offence for which you can be prosecuted. We work closely with our colleagues in the Fire Service in dealing with these fires and where it is found that a fire has been maliciously set, it will be fully investigated and when identified, those responsible can expect to be arrested and brought before court. We ask the public to help us prevent wild fires by acting responsibly when in the Mournes, and if anyone has any information about criminal action linked to previous fires, please call us on 101. A man arrested in England as part of the investigation into the murder of Sunday World journalist Martin OHagan has been charged. The 42-year-old has been charged with fraud by false representation and is due to appear before Craigavon Magistrates Court on May 2. He was arrested in the Sheffield area yesterday morning, with the assistance of Counter Terrorism Policing North East and South Yorkshire Police, and has been transported to Northern Ireland for questioning in the Serious Crime Suite at Musgrave Police Station. A PSNI spokesperson said the 42-year-old was arrested as part of the overall investigation. Detectives also conducted a search of a property in the Sheffield area as part of the operation. The LVF murder of journalist Martin O'Hagan The LVF gunned Martin OHagan down on the 28th of September 2001, as he walked home from the pub in Lurgan along with his wife. No one has ever been convicted of the murder. The Sunday World reporter was deliberately targeted because of his investigative journalism and had been living under threat. Thousands of people take to the streets of Belfast for the city's annual pride parade. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press. A culture war row over puberty blockers has erupted at City Hall with the DUP asking if it is appropriate for Belfast Pride to be given public money. DUP Alderman Dean Mc Cullough was stopped during a discourse on Belfast Prides position on political parties in relation to puberty blockers, by Lord Mayor Micky Murray, after a standing order was raised by Green Councillor Aine Groogan. Belfast Pride is the biggest event of the year for LGBTQIA+ people of Belfast. Last month its organisers said they would not allow those political parties to be involved in the July parade who supported a ban on the sale or supply of puberty blockers to under-18s. Last December, the four parties of the Stormont executive Sinn Fein, the Democratic Unionist Party, Alliance and the Ulster Unionist Party voted to introduce an indefinite permanent ban on the drug. Puberty blockers are drugs used to delay or prevent puberty and have sometimes been prescribed to children questioning their gender. Alderman McCullough gave his oration on the subject at the beginning of the monthly meeting of the full Belfast City Council, during the Official Announcements section of the sitting. He said: I arise to speak on the recent statement from Belfast Pride, part of which reads as follows: Following our community consultation (and I imagine that was extensive), Belfast Pride has decided that we will not be accepting applications from those political parties involved in the decision to ban puberty blockers in Northern Ireland to register to register for the Belfast Pride. He added: Therefore I want to ask the City Solicitor, is it appropriate that an organisation in receipt of public funds takes a decision to ban political parties, given that Section 75 mandates that public authorities in Northern Ireland must consider the need for equality of opportunity and good relations when carrying out their functions? Further to this, I ask the Chief Executive, is it appropriate if Belfast City Council corporately endorses Belfast Pride, given the very clear inter and now intra divisions, amongst those alphabetical letters that Belfast Pride purports to represent? He said: Not that I had any intention of attending, for the record, because I unashamedly and unapologetically support the decision to ban puberty blockers. And I cannot comprehend why any adult would want to give such life altering, potentially damaging and irreversible drugs to children. Aside from that, I know what a woman is, not a Cis woman and I hear the normal chuntering from a sedentary position. At this stage, a point of order was made by Sinn Fein Councillor Ronan McLaughlin, who said: This is not an official announcement, this is verging on political speech here. If he wants to find the committee minutes that he can fasten this into, then sound, not that I could agree with anything he said. Alderman McCullough said: That is interesting, because Sinn Fein agreed with the decision to ban puberty blockers. You can shake your head and roll your eyes, but you clearly followed our position. The Lord Mayor Micky Murray, an Alliance Councillor and the first openly gay Lord Mayor for the city of Belfast, said he agreed that it was not an official announcement. Alderman McCullough said to the Mayor: I appreciate Lord Mayor, this is an uncomfortable topic for yourself, to which the Mayor replied: It is not uncomfortable for me. Green Councillor Aine Groogan then raised a council standing order, which states A member should not impute motives or use grossly offensive expression to represent any person or section of society, including any such expression that shows contempt in relation to the race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religious belief, age or disability. She said: I believe the member has broken that on multiple occasions in the tirade he has launched against a very vulnerable section of our community, and I would like the Lord Mayor to silence the member. Thousands of people take to the streets of Belfast for the city's annual pride parade. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press. News Catch Up - Friday 4th April The Mayor replied: I would tend to agree. My ruling is this veers away from an official announcement. Alderman McCullough said he wanted an official ruling on that from the Chief Executive or City Solicitor. He said: You are forbidding me to finish this speech. The Mayor replied: You said it is a speech and not an announcement. Alderman McCullough said: If there is an official announcement on Palestine I hope you will make the same ruling. The Mayor replied: Yes. When Alderman McCullough said Palestine had been raised before in official announcements without the same ruling, the Mayor said: Well I am doing this now. Adam Krzan, who was murdered in Dungannon. Police have charged another man in connection with the murder of a pensioner at a flat in Dungannon, Co Tyrone. Adam Krzan (71) was found dead in his home at Corrainey Park in the Lisnahull area of the town on February 27. A 34-year-old has now been charged with a number of offences including assisting an offender, withholding information and perverting the course of justice. A 33-year-old suspect was yesterday charged with Krzans murder, as well as robbery and going equipped for burglary, and remains in custody. Both men are due before Dungannon Magistrates Court later today (Friday). The duo were taken into custody following searches in the Dungannon area. A number of items, including a vehicle, were seized by police. Four people were initially arrested in the days following Mr Krzans death, but were all subsequently released. Adam Krzan, who was murdered in Dungannon. News Catch Up - Thursday 4 April The deceased was originally from Poland. He moved to Northern Ireland approximately 20 years ago. There were widespread tributes following his death. One distressed neighbour told the Belfast Telegraph the pensioner was so kind and always full of smiles and joy. Police said: Detectives from the PSNIs Major Investigation Team, investigating the murder of 71-year-old Adam Krzan on Thursday, February 27, have charged a man with murder. The 33-year-old man has been charged with murder, robbery and going equipped for burglary, and is due to appear before Dungannon Magistrates Court on Friday. A 34-year-old man also arrested remains in custody at this time. Emergency Services attend an incident at Newtownards Airfield following reports that a plane left the runway on Friday, April 4, 2025. (Photo by Peter Morrison) Emergency Services attend an incident at Newtownards Airfield following reports that a plane left the runway on Friday, April 4, 2025. (Photo by Peter Morrison) Two people have escaped uninjured after an aircraft experienced a technical issue during flight at a Newtownards Airfield on Friday afternoon. The two occupants were rescued after firefighters and an ambulance crew responded to the incident. In a statement, the Ulster Flying Club confirmed that the incident was due to a technical issue. A spokesperson for the UFC said: We would like to confirm that one of our modern aircraft, the Sports Cruiser experienced a technical issue during flight and, in accordance with standard safety protocols, returned to Ards Airfield. The airport fire crew and emergency services were on standby to conduct necessary checks. "Both occupants walked away uninjured. Airport fire appliances and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service responded at the scene immediately following the incident. Emergency Services attend an incident at Newtownards Airfield following reports that a plane left the runway on Friday, April 4, 2025. (Photo by Peter Morrison) In a statement, a spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service received a 999 call at 12:58 on Friday 4th April, following reports of an incident in the Portaferry Road area, Newtownards Emergency Services attend an incident at Newtownards Airfield following reports that a plane left the runway on Friday, April 4, 2025. (Photo by Peter Morrison) News Catch Up - Friday 4th April NIAS despatched 1 Emergency Ambulance, 1 Rapid Response Paramedic, 1 Ambulance Officer to the incident. No one was taken from the scene. A Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: Firefighters were called to reports of an aircraft incident on Portaferry Road, Newtownards. "Firefighters used a cover jet to make the scene safe. "Two causalities suffered no injuries but were transferred to the care of NIAS. The incident was dealt with by 1.47pm. Work has begun to rebuild a loyalist terror mural in north Belfast that was destroyed as a result of Storm Darragh last year. The mural, situated at the entrance of the Mount Vernon estate, had been painted with two masked gunmen and the slogan: Prepared For Peace, Ready For War. Among the iconography featured on the mural included paramilitary emblems synonymous with the UVF. However, this was knocked down after it was subject to windspeeds in excess of 90mph from the storm. Residents woke last December to find half of the wall toppled due to the gale force winds which left almost 50,000 people without power. Now scaffolding surrounds what is left of the site as work begins to rebuild it. It is unclear if the mural will be rebuilt to its original design or if something new will takes its place, with the wall currently appearing to be blank. A number of paramilitary flags have also been affixed to the scaffolding. Mural in Mount Vernon Estate on the 4th April 2025 (Belfast Telegraph) Last year it was reported residents in the area were against the murals return because of the way it portrays their estate. Sources told the Sunday World at the time there was opposition to the mural when it first went up. People thought it was time to move away from that stuff, the UVF had called a ceasefire and supposedly decommissioned, yet here they were saying they were ready to go back to war. Who were they going to war with? Weve been saddled with it ever since, maybe Darragh has done us a favour and we can break away from the past. The infamous Mount Vernon mural is just rubble yesterday The mural was built in the former base of the Mount Vernon UVF unit which was led by the now jailed police informant Mark Haddock. The former paramilitary boss was imprisoned in 2014 for wounding with intent after a knife attack on an associate. He was tried at Woolwich Crown Court and is serving a 12-year sentence in an English Prison. After a report conducted by Former Police Ombudsman Nuala Loan in 2007, she found that members of the Mount Vernon gang were working as special branch agents. How it looked Loan also deduced that police had colluded with paramilitary members to protect them from arrest and prosecution. Under the leadership of Haddock, the gang carried out a sectarian terror campaign which led to the murder of dozens. Mural in Mount Vernon Estate on the 4th April 2025 (Belfast Telegraph) News Catch Up - Friday 4th April In 2005 Haddock was named in the Irish parliament by Labour TD Pat Rabbitte as an RUC Special Branch agent who had been involved in several murders including Sharon McKenna and Raymond McCord Jnr. Fine Gael leader Simon Harris said a disciplinary process for a councillor who said the US economy was ruled by the Jews took longer than he would have liked. Earlier this week, it emerged that Fine Gael had suspended councillor Punam Rane from all party rights and privileges for a period of 18 months. The party had investigated comments she made at a meeting of Dublin City Council last October, when she said the entire US economy is ruled by the Jews, by Israel. She later said on social media that she completely withdrew her comments, which were made during a city council meeting in relation to a motion on the Occupied Territories Bill. Ms Rane added: It was wrong and I fully apologise for it. At the time, Mr Harris described the statement by his party colleague as absolutely offensive and called for a swift and robust disciplinary process. On Friday, he said he was pleased the disciplinary process over the utterly unacceptable comments had concluded. He added: I dont want to overly comment on the process, because it was independent of me, other than to say that I believe it was appropriate that there was a significant sanction. The comments were unacceptable, and Im pleased that our disciplinary structure has now come to a conclusion in relation to that. Asked about the disciplinary process taking almost six months, Mr Harris said: It did take a little longer than I would have liked, but it is always important to get these things right in terms of due process. At the time of the initial remarks, Ronald S Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress, heavily criticised Ms Ranes comments. A spokesperson for the party said: Councillor Rane has also been requested to formally withdraw her comments in writing to the Lord Mayor, to include in that a repeat of her previous apology to members of the Jewish community, and to undergo appropriate training. It is understood the determination cannot be appealed. Ms Rane has been approached for comment. The impact on Irish businesses and jobs from US tariffs will be felt immediately, including as early as this weekend, Ibec chief executive Danny McCoy has warned (Damien Storan/PA) The impact on Irish businesses and jobs from US tariffs will be felt immediately, including as early as this weekend, Ibec chief executive Danny McCoy has warned. According to Mr McCoy, demand for some Irish products will drop quite substantially from as soon as this weekend, forcing some employers to slash workers hours. He made the comments after he and other industry leaders and representatives met with senior ministers at the Government Trade Forum on Friday to discuss the impact of US tariffs on Irish exports. Mr McCoy said that the impact on demand for fast-moving consumer goods, like the drinks industry, will be felt immediately. There is immediacy for firms this weekend, who know that their demand is likely to drop quite substantially and their workers will need to go on short-time working, he added. He and other industry leaders have called for short-term government support for workers and businesses affected by tariffs imposed by the United States. The Irish Congress of Trade Unions and others have called for the introduction of measures similar to those introduced during Covid, such as short-time works schemes, to protect jobs and businesses from the fall out of the tariffs. Mr McCoy backed those proposals. Our experiences from both Covid and Brexit was, its much better to have people to remain connected to their employer until this moment passes, he added. This thing is moving fast, and after our meetings today with Leef (Labour Employer Economic Forum), Im sure that that mood will have changed. We just made the point in terms of communication, that this was time-bound, not something in perpetuity. Lets have workers on short-time working. Asked whether he is getting warnings from Ibec members that they will be forced to put workers on short-time work, he added: Warnings would be too strong a word, its just the reality of the market. If your demand is likely to dry up, you have an excess supply, both of the product and workers. He also warned that pharma firms will not be exempt from tariffs, despite being left off Mr Trumps initial tariff plan. I think the genie is out of the bottle. President Trump has started something that he might not be able to control that involves the rest of the world as well, he continued. The first thing is to hope that we can get to a negotiation point. Its hard to know in the unpredictability of President Trump but where the checks and balances come on the US side, we will all be waiting. He said the impact will also be felt by consumers and industries in the United States. This is a new world order. And as I said before, America started something that it thinks it might be able to control but it clearly cant, he added. Asked whether the Taoiseach Micheal Martin appeared agreeable to the introduction of job and business supports, Mr McCoy said: I think the Taoiseachs response was that this may be different to Brexit and Covid, that we need a structural change in the economy. I agree with that. But the only distinction there was the thing that was missing, we were talking about time-bound. Its not things permanently in place, because in this new world order, we will have to change. Much of the country is forecast to be dry and sunny on Friday (PA) The UK could see its warmest day of the year so far, with temperatures higher than European holiday hotspots, after firefighters battled wildfires across the country. Much of the country will be dry and sunny on Friday, and some parts of central England may hit 24C as weather nearer to what wed expect in July continues, the Met Office said. The highest temperature recorded so far this year was 21.3C in Northolt, west London, and Chertsey, Surrey, on March 20. (PA Graphics) It means the country is expected to be warmer than Marbella and Ibiza in Spain, Mykonos in Greece and even Los Angeles in California, according to Met Office forecasts. Southern England hit highs of 20.7C on Thursday, while Achnagart in the Scottish Highlands reached 20.1C. Eastern areas of the country were cooler due to easterly winds over the North Sea. The Met Office said on social media: Temperatures (on Thursday) have been nearer to what wed expect in July in some inland and western areas, but conversely a chilly easterly breeze has kept many eastern coastal regions much colder. The average temperature for this time of year is around 12C in England and 10C in Scotland. Forecaster Dan Stroud said: Weve got an area of cloud and showery outbreaks of rain moving northwards across south-west England and parts of Wales overnight tonight and into tomorrow. So that will bring some welcome rain for small parts of the country, but much of the country is looking at another fine and dry spring day tomorrow with a lot of warm sunshine on offer, although still holding on to those cool temperatures near the east coast. But one thing we are expecting tomorrow is for temperatures to creep up into 23C or maybe the odd isolated 24C, so potentially the warmest day of the year so far. It comes as firefighters have been tackling major blazes in Scotland and Dorset. Mr Stroud said wildfires have hit the country after a dry period in March. There have been a series of blazes in recent days (Hayleigh Carter/PA) In Scotland, crews have been fighting a large grass fire at Gartur Moss in Port of Menteith, Stirling. The alarm was raised around noon on Wednesday and four fire engines remained at the scene on Thursday morning. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said the blaze stretched half a kilometre. It added that a very high to extreme risk of wildfire remains across the country until Monday and urged the public not to light fires outdoors. Crews have already extinguished a wildfire near Bonhill in West Dunbartonshire and another in the Kilpatrick Hills near Milngavie, East Dunbartonshire, earlier this week. Moors Valley Country Park on the Dorset-Hampshire border will remain closed after being hit by multiple wildfires since Monday. Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) said crews were called to the park again on Wednesday after more hotspots were discovered during a reinspection near Ringwood. Several hectares of woodland have been destroyed. No injuries have been reported. Firefighters responded to two more major wildfires in Dorset overnight. The first broke out at Upton Heath, near Poole, just before 11.45pm on Wednesday, spreading across more than 37 acres. Crews were then called to a blaze at nearby Canford Heath at around 5.30am on Thursday, which covered six acres. DWFRS said both fires had been brought under control by 7am, with crews continuing to damp down hotspots. Denmarks Prime Minister is wrapping up her three-day visit to Greenland after telling the US you cannot annex another country even when it comes to questions of international security. Mette Frederiksen travelled to the strategically critical Arctic island as US President Donald Trump spoke about taking control of it. He argues that Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory belonging to the Kingdom of Denmark, is critical to US security. A week ago, American vice president JD Vance visited a remote US military base in Greenland and accused Denmark of underinvesting in the territory. There has been widespread anger over Mr Trumps designs on Greenland (Ritzau Scanpix via AP) Ms Frederiksen pushed back against the US criticism as she spoke on Thursday alongside Greenlands incoming and outgoing leaders. She argued that Denmark, a Nato ally, has been a reliable friend. Speaking in English, she said that if we let ourselves be divided as allies, then we do our foes a favour. And I will do everything that I can to prevent that from happening. She added: When you ask our businesses to invest in the US, they do. When you ask us to spend more on our defence, we do. And when you ask of us to strengthen security in the Arctic, we are on the same page. But when you demand to take over a part of the Kingdom of Denmarks territory, when we are met by pressure and by threats from our closest ally, what are we to believe in about the country that we have admired for so many years? This is about the world order that we have built together across the Atlantic over generations: you cannot annex another country, not even with an argument about international security. Officials set sail on the Danish Navy inspection vessel Vaedderen (Ritzau Scanpix via AP) The Danish leader said that, if the US wants to strengthen security in the Arctic, let us do so together. Political parties in Greenland, which has been leaning toward eventual independence from Denmark for years, last week agreed to form a broad-based new coalition government in the face of Mr Trumps designs on the territory. Those have angered many in Greenland and Denmark. In an interview with Newsmax on Thursday, Mr Vance repeated the accusation that Denmark has really underinvested in the infrastructure and security of Greenland. He said Mr Trumps point is that this matters to our security, this matters to our missile defence, and were going to protect Americas interests come hell or high water. More Palestinians have died as a result of Israeli attacks (AP) Israeli strikes have killed more than a dozen people in the Gaza Strip, as Israel sent more ground troops into the Palestinian territory to ramp up its offensive against Hamas. At least 17 people, some from the same family, were killed after an air strike hit the southern city of Khan Younis, according to hospital staff. Hours later, people were still searching through the rubble, looking for survivors. The attack came a day after Israeli strikes killed at least 100 Palestinians. Hundreds more have died in the past two weeks as Israel has intensified operations, intended to pressure Hamas to release the remaining hostages it took during its attack on Israel in October 2023. Bombardment has continued in Gaza (AP) On Friday, Israel said it had begun ground activity in northern Gaza, in order to expand its security zone. Israels military had issued sweeping evacuation orders for parts of northern Gaza before the expected ground operations. The UN humanitarian office said around 280,000 Palestinians have been displaced since Israel ended the ceasefire with Hamas last month. In recent days, Israel has vowed to seize large parts of the Palestinian territory and establish a new security corridor across it. Children were among the injured after a strike in Gaza City (AP) To raise the pressure on Hamas, Israel has imposed a month-long blockade on food, fuel and humanitarian aid that has left civilians facing acute shortages as supplies dwindle a tactic that rights groups say is a war crime. Israel said earlier this week that enough food had entered Gaza during a six-week truce to sustain the territorys roughly two million Palestinians for a long time. Hamas says it will only release the remaining 59 hostages 24 of whom are believed to be alive in exchange for the release of more Palestinian prisoners, a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli pull-out from Gaza. The group has rejected demands that it lay down its arms or leave the territory. The Israeli government issued evacuation orders as it continued its campaign (AP) The pre-dawn strike on Friday hit a three-storey building. In addition to the dead, the attack injured at least 16 people from the same family. Associated Press reporters saw bodies being carried out in blankets, while others searched for people trapped under the rubble and collected charred remains. Ismail Al-Aqqad, whose brother died in the strike, as well as his brothers family, said: We dont know how to collect them and how to bury them. We dont know whose remains these are. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content They were burned and dismembered. On Thursday, more than 30 bodies, including women and children, were taken to hospitals in and around Khan Younis, according to hospital staff. Israel said on Friday that it had killed a top Hamas commander in a strike in Lebanons coastal city of Sidon. Injured children were treated at the Baptist Hospital in Gaza City (AP) Officials said that Hassan Farhat was a commander of Hamas western area in Lebanon and that he was responsible for numerous attacks against Israel, including one in February 2024, which killed an Israeli soldier and injured others. The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on October 7 2023, killing around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 251 hostages, most of whom have since been released in ceasefire agreements and other deals. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content Israel rescued eight living hostages and has recovered dozens of bodies. More than 50,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza as part of Israels offensive, according to Gazas health ministry, which does not say whether those killed are civilians or combatants. The ministry says more than half of those killed were women and children. Israel says it has killed around 20,000 militants, without providing evidence. The war has left most of Gaza in ruins, and at its height displaced around 90% of the population. There are fears of more conflict in South Sudan (AP) Ugandas President Yoweri Museveni is expected to meet South Sudanese officials on the second day of his trip to the capital, Juba, amid UN concerns over a renewed civil war after the main opposition leader was put under house arrest. Mr Museveni, who is among the guarantors of a 2018 peace agreement that ended a five-year civil war, held closed-door discussions with President Salva Kiir on Thursday. South Sudanese foreign minister Mohammed Abdallah Goc said the countrys leadership had assured Mr Museveni of its commitment to implement the peace agreement. South Sudans political landscape remains fragile and recent violence between government troops and armed groups allied to the opposition have escalated tension. Last month, Uganda deployed troops to South Sudan to support the government, but it was criticised by South Sudans main opposition party SPLM-IO, whose leader Riek Machar is under house arrest on charges of incitement. In early March, the armed group loyal to Machar attacked a UN helicopter that was on a mission to evacuate government troops from the unsettled northern Upper Nile State. Western countries including Germany and Norway have temporarily closed their embassies in Juba while the US and the UK have reduced embassy staff. This image released by the Taiwan Ministry of National Defence shows Chinas Shandong aircraft carrier (Taiwan Ministry of National Defence via AP) US and Chinese military officials have met for their first working-level talks since president Donald Trump took office for the second time. The two sides shared their respective concerns over military safety on the seas. The US Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement that the talks, held on Wednesday and Thursday in the eastern Chinese city of Shanghai, were focused on decreasing the incidences of unsafe and unprofessional actions by Chinas naval and air forces. The Chinese defence ministry pointed out that US military ships and aircraft have been conducting reconnaissance, surveys and high-intensity drills in the sea and air spaces around China, which are prone to cause misunderstandings and miscalculations and jeopardise Chinas sovereignty and military security. US secretary of defence Pete Hegseth, left, shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the prime ministers office in Tokyo (Stanislav Kogiku via AP) China told the US that it would continue to respond to all dangerous, provocative actions and resolutely safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, the ministry statement said. The talks were held in the same week Beijing conducted large-scale drills in the waters and airspace around the island of Taiwan. The meeting also came shortly after US defence secretary Pete Hegseth told his Japanese counterpart that Japan is our indispensable partner in deterring Communist Chinese military aggression. Ties between Beijing and Washington have been strained in the past several years over issues such as trade, cybersecurity, Taiwan and the South China Sea. Mr Trump speaks to reporters while in flight on board Air Force One (Pool via AP) Under Mr Trump, a trade war has worsened as his administration imposed tariffs and China announced retaliatory measures. To push back at Chinas aggression in the Indo-Pacific, the US has stepped up its presence in the region, sailing through the Taiwan Strait and conducting drills in the disputed South China Sea. The US opposes any forced takeover of Taiwan, which Beijing claims to be part of Chinese territory and vows to take by force if necessary. But both governments are also seeking to keep the lines of communication open, including through the semi-annual talks of the working group. The Chinese defence ministry said the two sides conducted candid and constructive exchanges on the security situation in maritime and aerial domains this time in Shanghai and that they discussed measures to improve maritime military security between the two countries. We could be burying children this weekend thanks to the evil on our streets like we were 27 years ago Lent doesn't get a lot of love in the evangelical world, but there is incredible value in voluntarily giving something up for a period of time to refocus your mind and heart on Jesus. Lent starts today and runs for 40 days through March 24. If you're looking to give something up for Lent as a way to refocus your life on Jesus, here are 1o meaningful things you can give up for Lent this year. Now, as a disclaimer, understand that many of these will hurt you a little bit. They will cause discomfort. That's the point: by depriving ourselves of what we crave, we remind ourselves that our ultimate satisfaction comes only from God. For it to be meaningful, it has to be a genuine sacrifice for you. Here are 10 meaning things you can give up for Lent: 1. Food This is where many people end up for Lent. Is overeating an issue for you? Does your sweet tooth dominate your eating habits? Is there a comfort food that you've come to rely on too much? Maybe it's a meal a day or a certain type of food, but food is a very common item to give up for Lent. 2. Social Media Is social media the first thing you check in the morning and the last thing you check at night? How many times a day do you scroll through your social media news feed? Social media can become an addiction and a distraction like most anything else. Perhaps you need to give up social media for Lent. 3. Television How many hours a day are you plopped down in the living room watching something when you should be up doing something? Has television come to dominate your time? Perhaps you need to give up your favorite television shows or television as a whole for Lent. 4. Internet Perhaps you're an internet junkie, constantly watching YouTube, scouring your favorite news sites or (if you're honest) looking at pornography online. Is the internet bringing out the best in you? If not, unplugging from the internet for 40 days could revolutionize your relationship with God. 5. (Video) Games Are you a gamer? Do you lose hours of sleep each night playing the latest Call of Duty? Are you constantly on your phone playing the latest iPhone game? If games have become a distraction to you, then this could be a very meaningful thing to give up for Lent. 6. Intimacy This doesn't apply to married people (no hate mail from the husbands please). But if you're honest, perhaps you're hitting the dating scene too hard, making too many compromises and ending up with too many regrets. Maybe a 40-day fast from anything sexual could be the first step towards getting your relationship with God right. 7. Alcohol I know you say you only drink socially and that you can stop anytime you want. Can you? Can you really? Then why not give up alcohol for Lent? Why not give it up as a way to refocus your mind and your heart on Jesus, the One who gives ultimate satisfaction. 8. Sleep What if you were more responsible about when you went to bed and when you woke up? Is staying up past midnight and scrambling out of the door at the last minute the next morning making you the person you want to be? What if you covenanted to go to bed by 10 pm each night and set your alarm for 6 am every morning during Lent to spend time with Jesus before you left your house? That would definitely bring you closer to God. 9. Isolation Perhaps you're a homebody. Perhaps you're perfectly content behind your door, behind your technology, behind your pets. Perhaps what God is calling you to give up for Lent is isolation, the emotional barriers you put up that keep you from doing life in community. Perhaps your resolution for Lent is to get out of the house, be at church as often as possible, to join a small group and start doing life with other believers. Isolation could be an incredible thing to give up for Lent this year. 10. Income Are you ready to follow the biblical example of tithing and give 10% of your income to God? Perhaps it's a local church, perhaps it's a Christian charity, or perhaps God is calling you to give it to someone in need, but what could God do in your life if you trust Him with 10% of your income for 40 days? That's three paychecks. What difference could God make through your faithfulness? Heres what God himself says in Malachi 3:10, Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. Maybe Lent is when you take him up on his challenge to trust him with your finances. If you made it this far, you might be overwhelmed with all the areas that you need to get right. Don't try and do them all. Pick one, two at most. Focus on one area to bring into obedience to God. When you're finished with these forty days, you can start again on your own and tackle another area. But use Lent as a springboard to renew and strengthen your faith in God. Now here's the critical part: to maximize the potential of Lent, it's not enough just to give something up. You need to replace it with something beneficial. When you give up food or social media or alcohol, it's going to create a deficiency, a hunger in your life. Instead of being miserable (and hungry), use that deficiency to drive you to God remind you that Jesus is your complete sufficiency. Whatever you give up for Lent, replace it with beneficial things like: Bible reading, prayer, church involvement, an encouraging book, Christian music, exercise or community. Today begins Lent. Join millions of other Christians across the world and leverage this opportunity to grow closer to God. Good luck and God bless! If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. With the end of the heating season just weeks away, states have already received about 90 percent of the money allocated by Congress for the Low Income Home Energy Program. But when that last 10 percent will arrive is anybody's guess. That's because the Trump administration this week abruptly fired the entire staff running the federal program, which provides over $7.8 million annually to help more than 8,000 low income households in the Berkshires heat their homes. Officials at the Berkshire Community Action Council, which administers the program locally, say the last tranche of fiscal 2025 funding amounts to $672,839. Were optimistic that we will get it," said Deborah Leonczyk, the agency's executive director. "We expect it to be late because of all the staffing changes, but we still expect to get it. The firings were part of a larger effort to shrink the Department of Health and Human Services by 10,000 employees, as Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. moved to drastically reorganize the agency on Monday. Among the terminated employees were the 25 staff members who had been overseeing the energy assistance program, the New York Times reported. By eliminating the federal staff responsible for LIHEAP, Donald Trump and RFK Jr. are telling working families, seniors and veterans to fend for themselves," Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., said in a statement to The Eagle. "This is not reform this is sabotage. Those layoffs have gutted the federal office in Boston that administers fuel assistance to low-income families across New England, including here in the Berkshires. The office also helps to administer Head Start, a federal program that provides funding for young children from low-income families to receive early education services. Berkshire County Head Start did not respond by press time to requests for comment about how the firings could affect its work. An HHS employee who oversaw one of the agencys low-income programs before he was fired told the Boston Globe that LIHEAP recipients should expect significant delays in future funding as a result of the layoffs. Leonczyk said the potential funding delay will primarily affect households that heat with gas and electricity, and have fallen behind on their bills during the winter. About 2,400 households that have applied for fuel assistance and heat with gas or electricity have exhausted their current benefit, which is limited to a maximum $850 and differs by household size and gross income, said Tammy Biagini, who directs the program. Households that heat with deliverable sources like oil, propane, wood, pellets and kerosene got a benefit increase earlier this year when BCAC received additional funding, bringing their maximum up to $1,500. Those households are more vulnerable during the winter months, as a state moratorium that prevents gas and electric companies from shutting off peoples services for nonpayment does not cover households that heat with deliverables. But now that the moratorium has ended, households that heat with non-deliverable sources also are vulnerable to shutoffs. Were going to work with the utility companies to let them know that the funding is coming," Leonczyk said. "Its just going to be delayed. She said local energy companies are loath to shut off households utilities, and are usually willing to work out a payment plan, especially if the household has demonstrated their desire to pay off back bills. Start making small payments on your bill if you get a shut-off notice, and then when you come to us for help, itll be much much easier for us to help you, Leonczyk said. Eighty-nine percent of the households that have applied for fuel assistance this year received it in the past, and rely on the program to keep their homes heated during the frigid winter months, Biagini said. Without the assistance, they would face difficult choices between heating their homes or putting food on the table. Almost 60 percent of the people who utilize our programs are senior citizens," Leonczyk said. "The rest are either people with disabilities or working families. LIHEAP was created by Congress in 1981 to help offset high utility bills. For fiscal 2025, Congress approved $4.1 billion for the program, which was expected to serve roughly 6.2 million people across the nation. A study published in The Economic Journal last year found that roughly 17 percent of U.S. households spend more than one-tenth of their income on energy, a threshold researchers have defined as a severe cost burden. The study also identified a strong relationship between energy affordability and winter mortality. As energy prices rise and the climate crisis worsens, exacerbating weather conditions, the LIHEAP program will only become more critical for low-income households. Heating and cooling isnt a luxury, Markey said in his statement. Its a necessity. U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, D-Springfield, said the LIHEAP firings are another overreach by the president and his staff, which he expects some Republican representatives from the Northeast will object to. Sen. Markey said he has reintroduced his Heating and Cooling Relief Act to permanently expand access to LIHEAP. "I will keep fighting to restore these jobs, unlock remaining LIHEAP funds and guarantee that every family no matter their income or ZIP code has access to the affordable and clean energy they need to stay healthy and safe," Markey said. Households can continue to apply for fuel assistance up until April 30. We are moving forward just as we would any other year," Biagini said. "Were not slowing down. We encourage people to continue applying [for fuel assistance]. Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter WILLIAMSTOWN Along with a new home, the Williamstown Fire Department is getting a new leader. The Williamstown Fire District Prudential Committee has named Jeffrey Dias as the town's new fire chief. He will begin his tenure next month. Dias, a 26-year veteran of the Onset Fire Department, will succeed Craig Pedercini, who joined the department as a volunteer in 1988 and has served as chief for the past 23 years. I have very large shoes to fill, Dias says. Prudential Committee Vice Chair Lindsay Neathawk said the committee weeded through roughly 25 applications and several rounds of interviews before choosing Dias. His resume and all the certifications that he comes with are stellar, Neathawk said. He has a wealth of knowledge and training. We felt his personality would be the best fit with our department, and moving into the next era with a new station. Professionals across the country, from Florida to California, applied for the position, which led to virtual interviews and then a final round of in-person interviews with the three finalists. The job was posted in late December. Dias will start off with a three-year contract and a salary of $125,000, as well as 3 percent cost of living increases to his salary in Years 2 and 3. He will be subject to annual reviews. What first attracted him to the job was the community, the Western Massachusetts region, and the quaintness of downtown, Dias said. And as I learned more about the fire department, I realized it could be a very good fit for us. ACQUAINTING HIMSELF Dias top short-term priority is to integrate himself with his soon-to-be team. As a person coming from the outside, they have to welcome me into their family, and I have to earn their respect, he said. He will oversee a transition into a new, 22,000-square-foot, $22.5 million fire station. Construction is set to be complete in December. The new station, which Pedercini has been lobbying for since 2006, was a pleasant bonus to the job, Dias said. The advent of a new facility opens up a lot of opportunities for the organization, he said, giving them a safe space to work in thats designed specifically for the mission of the fire department, and allows them to complete their mission easier than in the small footprint of the 75-year-old building they have now. Dias acknowledged it was difficult to depart from Onset, where hed been in varying capacities for almost 27 years, starting as a volunteer firefighter in 1998 and rising up the ranks to become deputy chief. He became full-time in 2005, and has served as a lieutenant and captain before his role as deputy chief for the past three-plus years. Dias is coming from a combination volunteer and full-time department, whereas Williamstown is almost entirely volunteer apart from top brass. But, he said, he started at Onset when there were only four full-time personnel. It was a predominantly on-call department when I started, Dias said, so Im just going back to my roots. While Dias has yet to familiarize himself with granular information on response times and staffing, he has already been visiting and will continue to visit the station as his start date nears. After his retirement, Pedercini plans to help Dias along in a consulting role. Still, Dias already knows Williamstowns geography poses complications. Williamstown is almost 47 square miles, thats a lot of area to cover from one station thats somewhat centrally located, Dias said. Forty-seven miles is a significant challenge, but well develop systems and processes to deal with things, and Im confident the people of Williamstown will be content with their level of fire protection. Donald Morrison is an Eagle columnist and co-chair of the advisory board. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of The Berkshire Eagle. Tufts University signage is seen behind a chainlink fence on March 27 in Somerville. Tufts graduate student Rumeysa Ozturk was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs enforcement agents last week after she co-authored an op-ed for the university's student newspaper that was critical of the Israel-Gaza war. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her Offspring; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel (Genesis 3:15). Adams sin plunged all his descendants into a desire to sin. Sadly, we all share in Adams guilt and receive death as our due penalty (Romans 5:12). But God In Genesis 3:15, God gave us the first gospel, the protoevangelium, when He told the devil the Offspring to come (Jesus Christ) would crush him. When Jesus went to the cross, He defeated death and Satan. Christs atoning sacrifice happened about four thousand years after Adams death-knell for humanity. Every sin of every person who has ever lived and surrendered in repentance and faith to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior is a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17) and is no longer condemned (Romans 8:1). Jesus, the Last Adam, is a life-giving Spirit (1 Corinthians 15:45). As you consider Gods perfect righteousness in Christ and how He paid for all your sins, consider Gods patience and perseverance to ensure the lifeline to His Son was never broken. Praise Him with thanksgiving for His glorious plan of redemption. New Testament parallel: Revelation 1:17-18 Prayer: Father God, Thank You for Your love for us even while we were apart from You. Thank You for sending Jesus to die in our place according to Your perfect will and timing. I love You, Father, and I praise You. In Jesus matchless name I pray, Amen. Photo credit: GettyImages A temporary US tariff relief for Indian pharma sector April 04, 2025 | Friday | News | By Sanjiv Das With the Trump administration exempting Indian pharmaceuticals from harsh tariffs, it is a win-win situation for both countries. But for how long? Is there something more in store? Experts share their thoughts on what lies ahead for the Indian pharma sector having their presence in the US image credit- shutterstock A temporary sigh of relief for Indias pharma sector. Eagerly waiting for the US administration to announce the reciprocal tariffs on its Liberation Day, the entire world kept a close watch on what was unfolding on April 2, 2025. An array of tariff announcements amidst the trade war across sectors sent shockwaves to the global economy. However, the US administration fell short of announcing any harsh tariff on Indias pharma sector thus benefitting the major export industry. The question remains for how long. Even pharma stocks were a relieved lot. This relief may be short-lived. According to media reports, President Donald Trump may announce separate tariffs for the pharma sector. Why pharma was spared? A lot of Indian pharma majors have their sites located across the US manufacturing much-needed generic medicines. These generics are mostly consumed by the US citizens. The US administration reinforces the need to maintain robust and resilient domestic manufacturing in pharmaceuticals. Says Sudarshan Jain, Secretary General, Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA), "India and the US share a strong and growing bilateral trade relationship, with a shared vision to double trade to $500 billion under the Mission 500 initiative. Pharmaceuticals remain a cornerstone of this partnership, as India plays a vital role in global and US healthcare by ensuring a steady supply of affordable medicines. Pharmaceuticals have been exempted from tariffs. The decision underscores the critical role of cost-effective, life-saving generic medicines in public health, economic stability, and national security." Bhavin Mukund Mehta, Vice-Chairman of Pharmexcil and Whole-Time Director of Kilitch Drugs said, As India evaluates the impact of reduced tariffs, we recognise the pharmaceutical sector as the clear winner. With India importing $800 million worth of pharmaceutical products from the US and exporting $8.7 billion, the strong trade ties between the two countries create a powerful win-win scenario. This shift drives significant cost savings on life-saving medicines and also positions Indian exporters to gain a competitive edge over their Asian counterparts, further strengthening India's leadership in the global pharmaceutical market." A tactical move President Trumps decision to exempt pharmaceuticals from tariffs is not just a tactical move, but a recognition of critical healthcare dependencies. Sheetal Arora, CEO & Promoter, Mankind Pharma mentions, The US healthcare system relies heavily on Indias robust generic manufacturing and Chinas API production, creating a supply chain that, if disrupted, would have immediate and severe consequences for patient care. Building domestic manufacturing capacity to meet these needs will take years of investment, regulatory adjustments, and workforce development. Its heartening to see our longstanding partnership with the US being recognizedthis relationship has fostered an environment where open dialogue can lead to mutual growth. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Chairperson, Biocon Group welcomed the US Governments decision to exempt Indian pharmaceutical products from tariffs which underscores the strong bilateral relationship between India and the US, as well as the critical role of the Indian pharmaceutical sector in enhancing public health. Shaw opined, The emphasis on affordability, accessibility, and availability of lifesaving medicines is particularly important, as it resonates with the shared priorities of both nations. It is also encouraging to see the alignment with the ambitious Mission 500 initiative aimed at doubling trade between our countries by 2030." The omission of medicines from Trumps latest round of country-specific import taxes does not mean pharmaceutical-specific tariffs are off the table in future. The devil is in the detail. For example, it is not clear if active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) are excluded from the pharmaceutical language of the fact sheet. The same may also be applicable to medical devices. If Indian APIs are still tariffed at 26 per cent, generic drugs and the ability to produce them at low cost in the US would be impacted. So we have to see where do the tariffs start or end. If the tariffs are on the pieces that come together to make drugs, such as API, then these will impact costs in the US, mentions, Girdhar Balwani, Director, Cadila Pharmaceuticals and Hypothalamus. What does this mean for Indian pharma? The no-reciprocal tariff for the time being will help Indian pharma companies decide on strategic opportunities to reshape the sector. This is a wake-up call for Indian pharma players to focus on next-generation generics, accelerating biosimilar development, and expanding domestic API production. This will help to reduce future geopolitical vulnerabilities. Chakravarthi AVPS, Senior Vice President (National) and Chairman of AP and Telangana, Federation of Pharma Entrepreneurs (FOPE) said, "I see President Trumps new tariffs as a mixed outcome for India. While most Indian exports now face a 26 per cent tariff, there is major relief for the pharmaceutical sector, which remains exempt from these tariffs for now. India is a key player in global healthcare, supplying 47 per cent of the US generic drug market." While this is a good news for Indian Pharma, with exports crossing $9.00 billion in 2024, it is also a wake-up call for companies with significant exports to the US as there could be non-tariff barriers. Says Dr Ajit Dangi, President and CEO, Danssen Consulting says, For sustained pharma exports to the US, Indian Pharma should actively consider establishing manufacturing facilities in US / acquiring small established US pharma companies, move up the value chain to develop complex generics, bio similars, bio betters etc, upgrade GMP standards etc. The unpredictability of global markets, increasing trend of deglobalisation and geopolitical conflicts disrupting supply chain, make it imperative that we do not sit on our laurels (Pharmacy of the World) and embrace new strategies. Diplomatic efforts hold key Continued diplomatic efforts and strategic negotiations will be crucial in safeguarding Indias leadership in the global pharmaceutical market, highlighting our strength in delivering high-quality medicines at the most affordable prices. A clear tectonic shift in the global pharms supply chain seems inevitable in the long run. India, being the backbone of generic supply globally and a major supplier to the US, needs to get ready for what is nextnot only retaliatory trade barriers but a systemic shift towards local manufacturing in the West. Hari Kiran Chereddi, Managing Director, HRV Global Life Sciences and CEO, New Horizon Global Pharma says, This is not a temporary disruption; its a long-term realignment. Although it will take time and billions of capital to shift drug manufacturing to the US, Indian pharma needs to actively de-risk its America-centric exposure. Theres a silver lining: as the US decouples further from China, India stands out as a credible, quality-driven alternative. Were already seeing increased interest from global buyers who want to hedge supply chain risk. Strategic Indian pharma players are shifting rapidlyventuring into US collaborations, domestic contract manufacturing, and even acquisitions to remain competitive. What remains to be seen is how API focussed companies will react to it, especially in terms of manufacturing on US soil. The Indian pharma sector is keeping a close watch on how things unfold in days to come. Till then let it be business as usual for the Pharmacy of the World. Eureka Analytical Services acquires majority stake in Teena Biolabs April 04, 2025 | Friday | News Positioning Eureka as a leading player in pharmaceutical analysis Eureka Analytical Services, a subsidiary of the GBA Group, has acquired a majority stake in Teena Biolabs, a leading pharmaceutical analytics service provider in India. The acquisition is another important step in the GBA Group's global expansion strategy. Through the merger with Teena, Eureka will become a leading service provider for pharmaceutical analysis in India with a total of two US-FDA approved sites. With its current ~200 employees across the main site in Hyderabad and the second laboratory in Panchkula, Teena has built up long-standing customer relationships and a very good reputation in the market over the last few years. Teena laboratory at Hyderabad has a US-FDA inspected status and can therefore support pharmaceutical companies both for the local Indian market and for export to the USA or Europe. India is one of the most dynamic pharmaceutical markets in the world. Against this background, the merger with the Teena team is an important step towards positioning the GBA Group as a global life science service provider in this market., says Steffen Walter, CEO GBA Group, The expanded portfolio resulting from the merger of Eureka and Teena and the cooperation with our laboratories in Europe provides the GBA Group with an excellent basis for supporting internationally oriented pharmaceutical companies in their development and approval activities. Dr Gouri Satpathy and Sanjeev Khatri, founders and owners of Eureka said, In addition to services in the food sector, pharmaceutical analysis is the second strategically important mainstay in Eureka's service portfolio. The merger with Teena therefore represents a further milestone in significantly expanding the range of services in this area, serving the Indian pharmaceutical market holistically and establishing Eureka and the GBA Group as the leading address in the field of laboratory analysis in India. AIC T-Hub launches 5th cohort of healthcare programme to nurture startups April 04, 2025 | Friday | News To onboard one or two international startups to introduce them to Indias healthcare ecosystem image credit- shutterstock Hyderabad-based T-Hub, one of the worlds leading startup incubators, in collaboration with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) has announced the launch of the 5th cohort of AIC T-Hub Healthcare Programme. The programme has selected 20 promising startups from a competitive pool of over 209 applications. This three-month hybrid programme is designed to accelerate innovation in medtech, digital health, and healthcare accessibility by providing startups with mentorship, market access, investor engagement, and regulatory guidance. Among the selected startups are Artyem Care, Bioscafil, Chqup, Cloud Palliative Care, Dag2IL, Epirelief, Dr. DICOM (GLOCAL DIGITAL), Kashi Medicos, Nahush Pharma, Oui Medical, Planytics, Reyansh Technologies, Sigma Mozak, Signel Biomedical, Skinska, Tap Health, thebabyland, TurocratesAI, 365Veda, and Warkas. These startups were selected based on their proof-of-concept readiness, technological innovation, regulatory compliance preparedness, market potential, and the strength of their founding teams. Throughout the programme, they will benefit from one-on-one mentorship with industry veterans, strategic introductions to hospitals and corporates, and exclusive investor networking opportunities to help secure funding and business collaborations. Through this programme, startups will gain access to leading hospitals and healthcare institutions for real-world validation and pilot studies, ensuring their solutions are market-ready and clinically viable. They will also receive expert guidance on navigating domestic and international healthcare regulations, which is critical for scaling in a highly regulated industry. Additionally, by engaging with venture capitalists, healthcare firms, and policymakers, startups will have opportunities to forge strategic partnerships and secure funding. Market access will be a key focus, with curated introductions to hospitals, corporates, and healthcare organizations that can facilitate growth and adoption of innovative solutions. The programme also aims to onboard one or two international startups to introduce them to Indias healthcare ecosystem, fostering cross-border innovation. Additionally, AIC T-Hub is building a robust network of doctors, hospitals, and sector-focused investors to support startup success. The programme will conclude with a Demo Day & Investor Connect in June 2025, where participating startups will present their solutions to industry leaders and potential investors. 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The court heard the theft involved $1.47 million and around 700,000. Advertisement Kiely, of Richmond Avenue, Dartry, Dublin 6, also pleaded guilty to knowingly carrying on the business of a company, Barrington Capital Limited, with intent to defraud creditors between July 2008 and February 2010. Kiely further pleaded guilty to falsifying a financial statement on March 12th, 2010. He has no previous convictions. The court heard Kiely set up a legitimate investment vehicle, Barrington Capital Ltd, to purchase commercial property in the United States. After the 2008 global financial crash, he did not return all of the money which had been intended to purchase property, but instead used some of it without investor authorisation - on the stock market, which was ultimately unsuccessful. Having heard the facts of the case, Judge Elma Sheahan today/yesterday (FRIDAY) said Kiely had a high degree of culpability and the harm caused to the injured parties was significant. Advertisement Kiely was handed a six year sentence and has also been automatically disqualified from serving as a director of a company for five years. The judge said the number of investors involved, the financial losses they suffered and the impact on their emotional wellbeing and peace of mind were among the aggravating factors, along with the period of time over which the offending occurred. One investor read his victim impact statement to the court, outlining how he invested 50,000 in 2007 in what appeared to be a good investment opportunity. He described his efforts to contact Kiely and get his money returned after 2011, as a nightmare chapter of my life. Advertisement He said he not only suffered the loss of 50,000, but also the opportunity costs over the last 17 years after it was not returned to him. He said he had waited a long time for this day, but now has the answers and closure he needed. None of the affected investors have received any money back, the court heard. Detective Garda Ivor Scully told Dominic McGinn SC, prosecuting, that Kiely was operating as a financial advisor at the time, and went into partnership with two American experts. Advertisement There was an initial target of $20 million US dollars, with $5 million raised in the first stage, which was transferred to America with the intention of buying commercial property. While enquiries were made about different properties, no purchase was made. After the global financial crash in 2008, the American experts recommended that money should be repaid to individual investors, and the money was returned to Ireland. The court heard that while there had been some expenses, there was still more than 5 million in the investment pot at this point. However, Kiely didn't immediately return the money to investors and instead, began to repurpose the funds. He transferred various amounts into an account in his own name, then into an account for trading on the stock market. Advertisement At the same time, Kiely told investors he intended to pivot the investment structure, but didn't outline this in detail except to say it would be connected to an American share index. Many investors indicated they were not interested and their money in excess of 3 million was returned. Others said they were open to the pivot, but wanted more information. Other investors asked for their money back, while some others didn't respond within a certain timeframe. Kiely indicated no action would be taken without a formal vote on the new process, but had already transferred money into a trading account in his name. Det Gda Scully told the court that these stock market investments were initially successful, but began to lose money at an alarming rate over a two-year period. Most of the $1.47 million US dollars was lost on the stock market, with this trading not authorised by the affected investors. Kiely periodically updated investors, reassuring them that their funds were safe, that the investment scheme was still in its infancy and efforts were underway to improve the situation. Many investors became concerned and asked for their money back. He contacted many of them saying their investment was still safe, but that the process of repaying the money would take time. He said he was in the process of winding up the fund, and gave dates when money would be returned. However, there was no indication on the financial documents that he was doing anything to wind up the fund, and towards the end of the period, there wasn't enough money to pay back investors. Just under 200,000 left in the trading account was transferred to Kiely's personal accounts. He stopped communicating with investors and effectively disappeared, the court was told. Most of the transfers made were through Kiely's personal account, but some went into an account in name of Barrington Capital Ltd, a company operated by him. The court heard that much of the funds went towards lifestyle expenses unrelated to the business and Kiely also paid himself an amount each month. Between July 2007 and February 2010, Kiely was operating the company for a fraudulent purpose, the court heard. Falsified statement Kiely also falsified a financial statement in March 2010, which set out expenses on the account and what was left, however, at this point the funds were completely depleted. The court was told this statement was false, and designed to reassure investors about the security of their investment. Kathleen Leader SC, defending, asked the court to take into account that Kiely was a man of previous good character and to consider his guilty pleas as an acknowledgement of responsibility. He acknowledges these people trusted him and he is very sorry that things worked out as they did. All of this bears very heavily on him, she said. She said this was not a thought out action intended to defraud investors, but events overtook the original plan and Kiely's response has borne heavily on him since. Her client has suffered significant mental health issues since 2011, with medical reports handed to the court. Ms Leader suggested his diagnosis of anxiety and depression showed he was not callous and had not continued on as if nothing had happened. Originally from Co Tipperary, Kiely is currently caring for his mother, who has vascular dementia. The judge said she had taken into consideration the mitigation and Kiely's personal circumstances, including the impact on his family while he is in custody. Det Gda Scully told the court he had seen various reports to be submitted on Kiely's behalf and accepted that the defendant was suffering from anxiety and depression in 2011 and 2012. He added that Kiely continued to pay himself until 2012 and sought professional help using money that did not belong to him. Det Gda Scully agreed with Ms Leader, defending, that Kiely had expertise and a long work history in the financial services industry before Barrington Capital was set up. It was also accepted that Barrington Capital was set up as a genuine investment vehicle, following careful planning with appropriate contact made with relevant experts. Det Gda Scully said the whole mechanism was bona fide initially and one of the American experts who gave evidence during the trial described Kiely as ambitious, clever and hardworking. It was further accepted that when there were significant costs involved in setting up the venture, with Det Gda Scully noting these would have been factored in at the planning stage. The garda also agreed that the financial crash was beyond Kiely's control, and that over 3 million was returned to investors. Det Scully noted that Kiely wrote to investors when the plan to invest in American commercial property didn't work out, adding that the defendant told them that he was looking at options, even though the American experts had recommended that the money should be returned. It was also accepted that there was little money left after the trading on the stock market and that Kiely does not display an extravagant lifestyle. Several victim impact statements were read to the court by Morgan Shelley BL, prosecuting. They outlined the financial cost of the loss of their money, and the effect it had on their lives, including a loss of trust in others. One small business owner said while people think financial crime is victimless, the 50,000 she invested was a large amount for her as self-employed person and its loss left her significantly out of pocket. Business Jury fails to reach verdict in second trial of Cus... Read More Ms Leader told the court that Kiely has a long work history in financial services. He worked for Cantor Fitzgerald between 2016 and 2021, but had to leave his role due to the publicity surrounding this case. She asked the court to take into account that over 3 million were returned to investors and the majority of the remainder didn't go into Kiely's pocket, but was lost on the stock market. Her client is not currently working and has been caring for his mother. His caring role will fall on other members of his family while he is in custody, Ms Leader noted. Two references were handed to the court, along with letters in relation to Kiely's mother's health. Dublin fire brigade staff helped bring a baby into the world on the N2 this week. Crews from Finglas and Phibsborough were on hand to assist in the delivery of the little girl on Thursday morning. Advertisement All involved are said to be doing well. An appeal by the family of George Nkencho against the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions that no garda should face prosecution over his fatal shooting by armed officers in Dublin over four years ago was unsuccessful, an inquest has heard. A sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court heard that an internal review within the DPPs office had upheld the original decision that no criminal proceedings should arise out of the death of Mr Nkencho. Advertisement The 27-year-old suffered fatal gunshot wounds during an incident involving members of the Garda Armed Support Unit outside his family home at Manorfields Drive, Clonee, Co Dublin on December 30th, 2020. The lead investigator with the Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission (Gsoc) in the case, Stuart Duguid, told the coroner, Myra Cullinane, during a brief hearing on Friday that no further criminal proceedings were being contemplated following the review of the DPPs decision and the inquest into Mr Nkenchos death could proceed. George Nkencho's family claim he was suffering from mental health issues for several months before his death. Photo: PA Dr Cullinane noted that Mr Nkenchos relatives had been provided with a summary of the DPPs reasons that there should be no prosecution in July 2024. The family then formally requested a review of the decision the following month with the formal review process commencing last September. Advertisement The deceaseds mother, Blessing Nkencho who was accompanied by one of her sons, Victor, at Fridays hearing declined to comment on the outcome of their appeal to the DPP. We dont want to say anything at this point, said Ms Nkencho. Dr Cullinane also addressed an application made previously by counsel for Gsoc, Marc Thompson BL, for the body (which has recently been renamed Fiosru the Office of the Police Ombudsman) to have legal representation at the forthcoming full inquest about which she acknowledged she had reservations. The coroner observed that many tragic deaths were investigated by Gsoc and it was perfectly acceptable that the organisation assisted her in holding inquests. Advertisement Dr Cullinane said Gsoc was very effective and she was very grateful for all its assistance. However, the coroner had previously observed that it would be potentially unnecessarily complex if Gsoc was represented as an interested party at the inquest when it had been assisting her office in the investigation into Mr Nkenchos death. The inquest heard other parties had not had an opportunity to consider a late submission by Gsoc to the coroner about why it should be granted legal representation at Mr Nkenchos inquest. Counsel for An Garda Siochana, Frank Kennedy BL, and counsel for the deceaseds family, Seoirse Fennessy BL, both applied for an adjournment of the matter in order to take instructions. Advertisement Dr Cullinane directed that submissions from the two parties should be received by her office by May 9th and she adjourned the issue for mention to May 16th. The coroner observed that Mr Nkenchos family were frustrated at how long it was taking to hold the inquest, although they understood the reason for the delay. Dr Cullinane remarked that there had already been a significant number of adjournments since the inquest was first opened in June 2021. She also noted that Gsoc were engaging with local authorities about assembling a jury from the electoral list to hear the inquest. Advertisement Dr Cullinane pointed out that gardai were normally responsible for assembling juries for inquests by coroners but noted there were some concerns about that where An Garda Siochana were involved in the circumstances of a death. The coroner also advised the parties that it would be a difficult inquest to convene in fixing a date for the full hearing. The fatal shooting of Mr Nkencho outside his home in west Dublin occurred after a stand-off developed between gardai and the deceased who was armed with a kitchen knife. Ireland US administrations antipathy towards EU mispla... Read More The tense situation arose shortly after Mr Nkencho had been involved in an incident at a local Eurospar store where he assaulted a shop assistant. The young man, whose family come originally from Nigeria, was pronounced dead a short time later at Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown. Post-mortem results revealed he died as a result of multiple gunshot wounds to the torso. His family claim he was suffering from mental health issues for several months before his death and that the level of force used against him by gardai was disproportionate. A Georgian man who claimed asylum in Ireland on the grounds of religious persecution has failed to secure permission to challenge the refusal to grant him refugee status after he failed to answer basic questions about being a supposed Jehovahs Witness. The 31-year-old made a claim for international protection to the Minister for Justice in August 2022 on the basis that if he was returned to Georgia, he would suffer religious persecution because of his claimed faith. Advertisement In February, he was denied refugee status, and in a judgment published on Friday, Ms Justice Siobhan Phelan denied him permission to pursue a legal challenge to the decision refusing him international protection after the International Protection Office (IPO) reached negative credibility findings about him. The IPO questioned the man about his religion, considered some of his answers to be wrong, and informed the man in August 2024 of their decision not to grant him asylum. In an interview, the applicant was asked how baptism takes place for Jehovah's Witnesses and he answered that a head was tilted into water but according to the Jehovah's Witness Organisation, the head must be fully submerged for baptism. The applicant was asked who Michael the Archangel is and he responded: "I haven't heard of Michael. I know Johann." Advertisement According to information available, Michael the Archangel is, for Jehovah's Witnesses, Jesus Christ. The applicant was asked who founded the Jehovah's Witness religion, and he replied: "I don't have this kind of detail". In the Jehovah's Witnesses' faith, only 144,000 people, when they die, will bewith Jesus in the kingdom of heaven. However, when the applicant was asked how many people will go to heaven, he replied: "As many as praise the lord. There is no such restriction". Advertisement When asked about family life or dating rules for Jehovah's Witnesses, he responded: "There is no such restriction. They accept normal dating." Jehovah's Witnesses live by strict rules that encompass all aspects of family life, including dating. The applicant was also asked why Jehovah's Witnesses refuse blood transfusions, but he did not know, even though he claimed to have converted to the religion nine years previously. The man was asked if he could explain his lack of knowledge and said: "I don't know. I don't read the bible too often." Advertisement As a result, the IPO found it not to be credible that he converted to the Jehovah's Witness faith. Claims about being threatened and assaulted were also found to not be specific enough to be verifiable. The man appealed the IPO decision to the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT), which refused his action last February. The appellants substantial lack of knowledge as to a faith he states he embraced some nine years ago, and his lack of explanation as to why he does not have that knowledge is a strong factor against the credibility of his account of a sincere conversion to the Jehovah's Witness faith. Advertisement Ireland Family of man who died from sepsis at Galway hospi... Read More "Accordingly, on the balance of probabilities, the tribunal rejects the appellants assertion that he has converted to the Jehovah's Witness religion, said IPAT. In seeking judicial review at the High Court, he advanced several grounds for his legal challenge, including that IPAT erred in failing to consider material relevant to the treatment of Jehovah's Witnesses in Georgia and that IPAT took a too literal interpretation of the religion. In her decision published today, Ms Justice Phelan refused the man permission to pursue a legal challenge against the IPAT decision made against him, saying he had not met the threshold for judicial review. It seems to me that the complaints maintained are in the realm of trivial and tenuous. Accordingly, I refuse leave in this case, said Ms Justice Phelan. A 48-year-old Dublin man has been sentenced to seven years in prison for hijacking a car with a five-month-old baby in the back. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Noel Ryan, of no fixed abode in Dublin, pleaded guilty to one count of hijacking a vehicle and one count of abduction of a child at Mountjoy Square, Dublin, on September 23rd, 2024. Advertisement He has 41 previous convictions, including for theft, aggravated burglary, road traffic matters and misuse of drugs. Passing sentence on Friday, Judge Martin Nolan said this child was left by itself for the guts of three hours. He said the babys parents had to endure what no parents should have to endure. Judge Nolan said: I understand he was in the throes of addiction at the time, but he put himself in that position. The judge said Ryan was reckless regarding the child. Judge Nolan said he would consider the facts of this case and the aggravating factors. He said the only real mitigations were the early guilty plea. Advertisement The judge said he would consider that Ryan was ashamed and apologetic and that he probably did not know there was a child in the car. He also noted that anyone informed by conscience would have put the car in some place it could have been found more easily. Judge Nolan set a headline sentence of nine-and-a-half years. After considering the mitigating factor, the judge sentenced him to seven years in prison, backdated to when Ryan went into custody on this matter. Detective Garda Paul Griffin told Diana Stuart BL, prosecuting, that on the day in question, the mother of the child parked her car in Mountjoy Square. She went to the boot of her car and was setting up her child buggy when she heard her car door close. She ran to the driver's door and saw Ryan inside. She pulled open the door and began screaming that her baby was in the car. The court viewed CCTV footage, which showed the woman holding onto the car door as Ryan drove off. She was dragged until she could no longer hold on any longer. Members of the public tried to stop the car and came to the woman's assistance. The womans phone and handbag were also in the car. Advertisement Det Gda Griffin said the car was taken at 1:45pm, and a Child Rescue Ireland alert was sent out. He said that almost every Garda car in Dublin was on alert, and air support was also deployed. Garda patrol Two members of the public flagged down a garda who was on patrol near Richmond Street; they told him there was an alley nearby where cars are often abandoned. The garda checked this alley and saw the car in question. The court heard the garda saw a baby's foot, and when he opened the door, he saw the baby in its rear-facing car seat. Advertisement He said the child had tears moving down its face and was agitated. He then held the baby's hand and picked up a brown teddy bear to try to cheer the baby up. The car was located by the gardai at 4pm. Ryan had used a credit card which belonged to the mother of the baby in a shop nearby, 12 minutes after the car was taken. Gardai viewed CCTV footage from the shop, and he was identified. Ryan was arrested the following day and was interviewed six times in total. On the sixth interview, he made some admissions by saying, I did not know there was a child in the car, I went to Clarence Street to get a friend to ring the gardai. The mother of the child read a victim impact statement to the court: I felt a terror like I have never known before, the fear for my child's safety. Advertisement I tried everything to stop him from driving away, I screamed that my baby was in the car. I did everything I could, but it was not enough. I watched my car drive off at speed with my child in it and a stranger. My mind was picturing all possible outcomes, did he want my car or the baby?. I will never be able to forget the events of that day. My hope is that justice will be served for the considerable damage that has been caused to us. The father of the baby read a second victim impact statement: This was the single worst day of my life. I felt the ground beneath my feet completely collapse. I was thinking of the worst possible outcome. I blamed myself that I did not protect my family. The next three hours were the longest of my life I ask the court to understand what has been taken from us fully. The first year of her life has been tainted for us. Det Gda Griffin agreed with John Byrne SC, defending, that Ryan was known to him for several years and was someone who had struggled with addiction. He agreed that no trial date was ever fixed and that Ryan pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. Ireland Widow of Jason Hennessy accused of setting XL Bull... Read More The garda agreed with counsel that the car was taken and was parked a two-minute drive away. He also agreed that 12 minutes after the car was taken, his client attempted to buy cigarettes in a nearby shop. Mr Byrne said: "Anything I say is not to justify what my client has done." He said Ryan had offered a heartfelt apology, and there was nothing sinister in terms of Ryans motives. Mr Byrne said Ryans real regret apart from the offence in itself is that he did not do more. He said his client offers an unserved apology for what he put the parents through, and if he could turn back the clock, he would. He did not deliberately go out and take a car with a child in the back seat. A man found with four pipe bombs in the back of his van, believed to be related to an ongoing feud between organised crime groups, has been jailed for six and a quarter years. Les Byrne (49) was discovered with the devices when gardai searched his van on March 24th, 2024, when they noticed an overwhelming smell of cannabis in the vicinity. Advertisement Byrne, of Shancastle Park, Clondalkin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to having the four explosive devices in his possession or under his control. He has 24 previous convictions. Passing the sentence on Friday, Judge Martin Nolan said Byrne was acting under instructions from third parties, but said he was vital, noting someone has to carry and hold items. Judge Nolan set a headline sentence of 10 years, noting these were potentially lethal weapons. Advertisement The judge said he must have been desperate, as he was doing it for very little money, but said he had decided, as a mature man of the world, to do this. He noted his guilty plea, co-operation and that he had family responsibilities. Judge Nolan sentenced him to six and a quarter years in prison. Garda Aaron Murphy told Breffni Gordon SC, prosecuting, that he and a colleague were on mobile patrol in the Clondalkin area and arrived at a retail park on Fonthill Road. Gda Murphy said the area had a high volume of shops and pedestrians. In the car park, Gda Murphy noted an overwhelming smell of cannabis and found it was coming from a van parked irregularly in the area. Advertisement He confronted the driver, who was acting suspiciously and seemed nervous. Byrne was compliant with the search of the van. The garda said the van was very messy and his eye was drawn to a clean Sainsbury's bag in the back of the van. He opened the bag and discovered the four pipe bombs inside. He was unsure what they were at first, but noticed the fuses and realised the extent of what had been discovered. The area was secured, and the devices were made safe. They were later examined and found to be effective bombs. The garda said the possession of the devices was believed to be related to an ongoing feud in the area between two organised crime groups (OCG), which has escalated in recent times with arson attacks, intimidation and attacks on homes. Advertisement Gda Murphy said the accused mans phone was analysed and it was found Byrne was being directed on what to do by a person serving a lengthy prison sentence. It is accepted that Byrne was on a low rung in relation to the OCGs. He was to receive 500 for his involvement. The garda agreed with Michael Hourican SC, defending, that Byrne was being used to store the items and that his role was to be given something to hold on to until it was taken. The garda agreed that the text messages seen by gardai between Byrne and another individual outlined that at a certain point, Byrne became aware of what he had and immediately wanted to get rid of them, using expletives towards the person who gave him the items. Advertisement The garda agreed with counsel that there was a long series of messages in which Byrne said he didn't want the items. He agreed that Byrne was operating under the influence of others. Ireland Georgian 'Jehovah's Witness' who claimed religious... Read More Mr Hourican said his client had been acting under the influence of people of influence who exert soft and hard power in the locality. He asked the court to take into account the test messages showing that at some point he became aware of what he had and was deeply unhappy, subsequently making ongoing efforts to rid himself of the items. He said Byrne was at the bottom of the food chain and was disposable and dispensable. He accepted Byrne had a previous history but had kept his head down for a long time. Counsel said Byrne had a work history and was a carer for his mother, who was very ill. A High Court judge has refused permission for Ryanair to appeal the rejection of its challenge to a proposed 200 million cargo underpass at Dublin Airport. In February, Mr Justice Richard Humphreys dismissed the airlines challenge to An Bord Pleanalas decision to approve the Dublin Airport Authority's planned 1.1km tunnel, which is to run beneath the crosswind runway. Advertisement The DAA says the tunnel is needed to improve access and safety on the airfield and to facilitate segregation of aircraft and ground vehicles. In March, the judge heard an application from Ryanair to reopen his judgment on the basis of what it said was a material error. During the hearing of that application, the judge said Ryanair "pragmatically (and due credit to it), acquiesced in clarifications" which had been discussed in the court. The airline also accepted that the matter could proceed to the leave to appeal stage without the need to progress the re-opening of the matter fully. Advertisement Following another hearing on the leave to appeal application, the judge dismissed Ryanair's application on Friday. The judge said this application was "perched precariously on a tiny fragment of the original pleaded case an alleged infelicity in the (An Bord Pleanala) inspectors wording on a purely domestic law issue regarding the local area plan". The question the court had to consider was whether this was a plausible basis for leave to appeal, he said. In particular, he said the question was whether it was in the public interest that infrastructure designed to prevent motor vehicles from having to cross an active runway should be held up "over a technicality regarding the infelicitous phrasing of the inspectors wording about something that was not an axis upon which anything fundamental turned legally, and which at worst was just an inaccuracy in choice of words". Advertisement The judge added: "In my own perhaps erroneous view, there would be something seriously wrong with our legal system if the answer to that question is anything other than No". He also said, in dismissing the case, that in the event Ryanair applies to the Supreme Court for leave to bring a leapfrog appeal, and if that court agrees, the costs of the leave to appeal application will be the costs of that appeal. If no such application is made after seven days, his substantive judgment dismissing the case would be perfected. Ireland Contractor at Dublin Airport claims he was fired f... Read More Ryanairs challenge was grounded in the claim that the boards permission was in breach of the European Commissions Water Framework Directive, which aims to protect water quality and corresponding Irish regulations, as the appeals board did not ensure the project would not jeopardise the status of a body of surface water. Advertisement Mr Justice Humphreys rejected this argument, stating that the airline didnt demonstrate any factual basis that the project could have jeopardised the attainment of good water status. The airline also maintained in its challenge that the board did not recognise that the proposed development is inconsistent with the Dublin Airport Local Area Plan, as it requires the loss of two aircraft stands. While the judge said he tended to agree with parts of the Ryanairs argument on this point, he said the airline relied on Section 37(2) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 in making this argument, a subsection that he said does not apply to cases of material contravention of local area plans. Two men has been remanded in custody over the murder of a pensioner in Co Tyrone. Adam Krzan, 71, died after being found with serious injuries at a flat in the Corrainey Park area of Dungannon on February 27th. Advertisement Ryan Patrick Martin Kerr, 33, of Derrylattinee Road in Dungannon, has been charged with murder, as well as robbery and going equipped for burglary. Michael John Ennis, 34, of Cloneen in Dungannon, has been charged with assisting offenders, perverting the course of justice and withholding information. Adam Krzan, 71, died after being found injured in the Corrainey Park area of Dungannon (PSNI/PA) Both men appeared before Dungannon Magistrates Court on Friday morning separately. The court heard that at just after 8pm on February 27th, police received a call around an ongoing assault at a flat at Corrainey Park, and when they arrived they found a very disturbed scene with a large volume of blood. Advertisement Police located the occupant, who was identified as Adam Krzan, a 71-year-old male, the court heard. He had suffered severe injuries, he had three stab wounds to his chest and two to his neck. All life-saving measures were undertaken, but he was declared extinct at 2111 hours. A large and complex police investigation was described. Appearing first, Kerr indicated that he understood the charges after they were read. Advertisement He is accused of the murder of Mr Krzan, and also of robbing him of monies and being armed with a knife. A detective sergeant told the court they believed they could connect the accused to the charges. A defence lawyer said no application for bail would be made at that time. District Judge Francis Rafferty set the next hearing date for May 2nd. Advertisement Ennis appeared later and was denied an application for bail. He indicated he understood the charges, which include assisting offenders on February 27th, attempting to pervert the course of justice by making a false statement to police and withholding information on March 5th and withholding information on March 27th. A detective constable said they believed they could connect the accused to the charges. An application for bail was opposed, with police voicing concern that Ennis could interfere with witnesses and could potentially leave the jurisdiction. Advertisement A defence lawyer described Ennis as a vulnerable individual, with significant mental and physical health difficulties. He said Ennis has been living in Northern Ireland for 11 years, and was originally from Co Kildare where his parents had offered their home as a bail address. A 5,000 surety was also offered. Police said they did not believe that would be possible to monitor someone on bail in a different jurisdiction. Judge Rafferty said he was not satisfied that there are conditions which could be imposed to allow police to monitor, and said he believes there is a risk of flight, as well as concerns about interference with the investigation. In the circumstances I am not satisfied that the applicant is a suitable applicant for bail. He will be remanded into custody. Ennis is also to appear next on May 2nd. The death of GAA legend Mick ODwyer features on the front page of many Irish newspapers on Friday. The Irish Times calls O'Dwyer the "giant of the GAA" while also reporting on the Taoiseach urging caution amid signs of EU divisions. Advertisement The Irish Examiner gives a large portion of its front page to O'Dwyer too. It also reports on the EU considering a "nuclear" tech tariff retaliation. While Cork's pharmaceutical industry may not as yet be impacted by US president Donald Trump's tariffs, concerns remain about what may yet be coming, The Echo reportd The Irish Independent leads with Ireland urging the EU to restrict any tariff counter-measures to luxury US goods so as not to provoke further tit-for-tat tariffs on vital Irish agri-food exports. Mick O'Dwyer's death dominates the front page of Friday's Irish Daily Star. Donald Trump has been mocked for slapping tariffs on uninhabited Antarctic islands populated only by penguins, the Irish Daily Mirror reports. The Irish Daily Mail's front page features a piece on the stock market detailing how it took a $2.4 trillion hit on Thursday after Donald Trump pushed the world to the brink of a full-scale trade war. Veteran criminal Wayne Bradley has been targeted in a series of attacks with the latest seeing his car firebombed outside his home, The Herald reports. In the UK... Have a look at the stories dominating the front pages of UK newspapers. The front page of today's Daily Telegraph: 'Britain must copy Singapore, says Hunt'#TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/A0IoFBBBeO The Telegraph (@Telegraph) April 3, 2025 Friday's front page: Britain threatens America with new 'Tesla tax' as stock markets tumble#Tomorrowspaperstoday Latest: https://t.co/U9NLpZ73Qs pic.twitter.com/Jm4DgcBiwS The i Paper (@theipaper) April 3, 2025 President Donald Trump has said he is signing an executive order to keep TikTok running in the US for another 75 days to give his administration more time to broker a deal to bring the social media platform under American ownership. Congress had mandated that the platform be divested from China by January 19 or barred in the US on national security grounds, but Mr Trump moved unilaterally to extend the deadline to this weekend, as he sought to negotiate an agreement to keep it running. Advertisement Mr Trump has recently entertained an array of offers from US businesses seeking to buy a share of the popular social media site, but Chinas ByteDance, which owns TikTok and its closely held algorithm, has insisted the platform is not for sale. ByteDance, which owns TikTok, has insisted the platform is not for sale (AP) My Administration has been working very hard on a Deal to SAVE TIKTOK, and we have made tremendous progress, Mr Trump posted on his social media platform. The Deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an Executive Order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days. Mr Trump added: We look forward to working with TikTok and China to close the Deal. Advertisement TikTok, which has headquarters in Singapore and Los Angeles, has said it prioritises user safety, and Chinas Foreign Ministry has said Chinas government has never and will not ask companies to collect or provide data, information or intelligence held in foreign countries. Search teams have pulled more bodies from the ruins of buildings, a week after a massive earthquake rocked Myanmar, killing more than 3,100 people. The focus is now turning towards urgent humanitarian needs in a country that was already devastated by civil war. Advertisement United Nations humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher, who is also the emergency relief coordinator, is arriving on Friday in a bid to spur action following the quake. Now is the time to stand in solidarity with the long-suffering people of Myanmar. The @UN will keep pushing for peace & international solidarity to provide lifesaving support for those in need.https://t.co/b90oMV2KZy pic.twitter.com/i9Nbs47jVZ Antonio Guterres (@antonioguterres) April 3, 2025 Ahead of his visit, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to the international community to immediately step up funding for quake victims to match the scale of this crisis, and he urged unimpeded access to reach those in need. The earthquake has supercharged the suffering with the monsoon season just around the corner, he said on Thursday. Myanmar authorities said 3,145 people had been killed, with another 4,589 people injured and 221 missing. Advertisement The UK, which had already given 9.9 million to purchase emergency items like food, water and shelter, pledged an additional 4.9 million in funds to match an appeal from Myanmars Disasters Emergency Committee, according to the UK Embassy in Yangon. Emergency crews are searching for bodies following last Fridays disaster (AP) Many international search and rescue teams were also on the scene, and eight medical crews from China, Thailand, Japan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Philippines, Indonesia and Russia were operating in Naypyitaw, according to Myanmars military-run government. Another five teams from India, Russia, Laos and Nepal and Singapore were helping in the Mandalay region, while teams from Russia, Malaysia and the Asean bloc of nations were assisting in the Sagaing region. The Trump administration has pledged two million dollars (1.52 million) in emergency aid and sent a three-person team to assess how best to respond given drastic cuts to US foreign assistance. Advertisement On Friday, five bodies were recovered from the rubble in the capital Naypyitaw and the second-largest city of Mandalay, near the epicentre of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake on March 28, authorities said. The last reported rescue came on Wednesday, some 125 hours after the quake struck, when a man was saved from the wreckage of a hotel in Mandalay. Even before the earthquake, Myanmar was beset by political, human rights & humanitarian crises. The disaster has supercharged the suffering. I appeal to the international community to immediately step up vitally needed funding. I appeal for rapid, safe, sustained & unimpeded Antonio Guterres (@antonioguterres) April 3, 2025 The quake also shook neighbouring Thailand, bringing down a high-rise under construction in Bangkok, where recovery work continued on Friday. Overall, 22 people have been found dead and 35 injured in Bangkok, primarily from the construction site. Advertisement Myanmars military seized power in 2021 from the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking what has turned into a civil war. The quake worsened an already dire humanitarian crisis, with more than three million people displaced from their homes and nearly 20 million in need even before it hit, according to the United Nations. Thousands perished in the quake (AP) World Danish PM tells US you cannot annex another count... Read More As concerns grew that ongoing fighting could hamper humanitarian aid efforts, the military declared a temporary ceasefire Wednesday, through until April 22. The announcement followed unilateral temporary ceasefires announced by armed resistance groups opposed to military rule. On Thursday, however, there were renewed airstrikes in Kayah state, also known as Karenni, in eastern Myanmar, according to witnesses. Advertisement The military has said that it would still take necessary measures against resistance groups, if they use the ceasefire to regroup, train or launch attacks, and the groups have said they reserved the right to defend themselves. A Russian ballistic missile strike on a central Ukrainian city has killed at least 14 people, including six children, Ukrainian officials said. The strike came as US and European leaders pressed Russia to accept a ceasefire in the conflict. Advertisement At least 50 people were wounded in the strike on Kryvyi Rih the home town of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in what the regions leader, Serhii Lysak, described as an assault against civilians. The missile struck an area right next to residential buildings hitting a playground and ordinary streets, Mr Zelensky wrote on Telegram. Local authorities said the strike damaged about 20 apartment buildings, more than 30 vehicles, an educational building and a restaurant. They said emergency responders were at the scene and psychologists were helping survivors. Mr Zelensky blamed the daily strikes on Russias unwillingness to end the war, saying: Every missile, every drone strike proves Russia wants only war. Advertisement He urged Ukraines allies to increase pressure on Moscow and bolster Ukraines air defences. The United States, Europe and the rest of the world have enough power to make Russia abandon terror and war, he said. The missile strike followed a drone attack late Thursday on Kharkiv, Ukraines second largest city, that killed five civilians. Firefighters put out a blaze following Russias drone attack on Kharkiv (Yevhen Titov/AP) Emergency crews carried black body bags from a burning apartment building as onlookers wept and hugged in the dark. Advertisement Some of the 32 wounded, bloodied and in shock, limped out into the street or were carried on stretchers as flames shot from the windows of their homes. Now, I think it is obvious who wants peace and who wants war, Ukrainian foreign minister Andrii Sybiha said at a Nato meeting in Brussels, referring to the Kharkiv strike. We must get Russia serious about peace. We must pressure Russia into peace. Russia has effectively rejected a US proposal for a full and immediate 30-day halt in the fighting, and the UK and French foreign ministers on Friday accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of dragging his feet in ceasefire talks to halt Russias all-out invasion of Ukraine. Our judgment is that Putin continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet, Foreign Secretary David Lammy told reporters at Nato headquarters, standing alongside French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot in a symbolic show of unity. Advertisement Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Putin continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet (Geert Vanden Wijngaert/AP) US secretary of state Marco Rubio said that Russias real intentions in the negotiations will become clear within weeks. We will know from their answers very soon whether they are serious about proceeding with real peace or whether its a delay tactic, Mr Rubio told reporters. Now weve reached the stage where we need to make progress. A Kremlin envoy who visited Washington this week for talks with Trump administration officials said on Friday that further meetings would be needed to resolve outstanding issues. Kirill Dmitriev told Russian reporters that the dialogue will take some time, but its proceeding positively and constructively. Advertisement He criticised what he called a well-co-ordinated media campaign and attempts by various politicians to spoil Russia-US relations, distort what Russia says, and cast Russia and its leaders in a negative way. Mr Dmitriev, the head of Russias sovereign wealth fund, was sanctioned by the Biden administration after Moscow launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24 2022. The US had to temporarily lift the restrictions to allow him to travel to Washington this week. Civilian areas in three other Ukrainian regions were also hit in Russian attacks overnight, officials said. US secretary of state Marco Rubio said Russias real intentions in the negotiations will become clear within weeks (Jacquelyn Martin, Pool/AP) The Ukrainian air force said that Russia fired 78 strike and decoy drones. Russias defence ministry said that its air defences destroyed 107 Ukrainian drones. We see you, Vladimir Putin. We know what you are doing, Mr Lammy said. Russian forces are preparing to launch a new military offensive in the coming weeks to maximise pressure on Ukraine, and strengthen the Kremlins negotiating position in the ceasefire talks, according to Ukrainian government and western military analysts. The planned multi-pronged ground offensive along the 620-mile front line comes as muddy fields dry out, which will allow tanks, armoured vehicles and other heavy equipment to roll into key positions across the countryside. The UK and France are helping to lead a multinational effort known as the coalition of the willing to set up a force that might police any future peace agreement in Ukraine. A senior Ukrainian official said earlier this week that between 10 and 12 countries have said they are ready to join the coalition. Mr Barrot said that Ukraine had accepted ceasefire terms three weeks ago, and that Russia now owes an answer to the United States. French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot addresses the media (Geert Vanden Wijngaert/AP) US President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with Mr Putin and Mr Zelensky, after he promised last year to bring the war to a swift conclusion. Russia has been flip-flopping, continuing its strikes on energy infrastructure, continuing its war crimes, Mr Barrot said. It has to be yes. It has to be no. It has to be a quick answer. He said that Russia shows no intention of halting its military campaign, noting that Mr Putin on Monday ordered a call-up intended to draft 160,000 conscripts for a one-year tour of compulsory military service. The two foreign ministers pledged to continue helping to build up Ukraines armed forces the countrys best security guarantee since the US took any prospect of Nato membership off the table. Moscows measured approach to the ceasefire negotiations has not surprised western observers, because its army has momentum on the battlefield. A US intelligence community annual threat assessment, published last month, noted that for Russia, positive battlefield trends allow for some strategic patience. Russia in the past year has seized the upper hand in Ukraine and is on a path to accrue greater leverage to press Kyiv and its western backers to negotiate an end to the war that grants Moscow concessions it seeks, the report said. While we took immediate action to lock these accounts and let those members know, there are things members can do right now to protect themselves online. National Cyber Security Co-ordinator Lieutenant General Michelle McGuiness said she was working with the funds to assess the extent of the attack. Loading I am co-ordinating engagement across the Australian government, including with the financial system regulators, and with industry stakeholders to provide cybersecurity advice, McGuiness said. The attackers appear to be familiar with the countrys superannuation system as they have mainly targeted people who are in the pension draw-down phase and can request lump sum withdrawals. A cybersecurity industry source aware of the attack but not permitted to speak on the record said the amount of known losses had quadrupled within 24 hours, and based on an early assessment, the attackers were believed to be Australian-based. Guy Haydon, 60, from Tallangatta in north-eastern Victoria near the New South Wales border, was one of the 8000 Rest members to receive a notification that his personal information had been improperly accessed. He said staff at the call centre could not answer any of his questions, and had asked for more personal information to confirm his identity. Why would I give them more information when they havent been able to keep my existing information private? Haydon told The Age and Sydney Morning Herald. REST member Guy Haydon from Tallangatta. Credit: Instagram Im just so frustrated. Ive just hit 60, so Im at preservation age for super, it means that my savings can be accessed. When I got the email last night, it just scared the hell out of me. Rest Super chief executive Vicki Doyle said less than 1 per cent of its members or about 8000 customers were affected by the co-ordinated cyberattacks, and that no funds had been transferred out of members accounts. While in the vast majority of cases, the attackers accessed limited personal information, they were able to see the account balances of about 20 Rest customers. Over the weekend of 29-30 March 2025, Rest became aware of some unauthorised activity on our online Member Access portal. We responded immediately by shutting down the Member Access portal, undertaking investigations and launching our cybersecurity incident response protocols, Doyle said. At this stage, we believe that some of our members may have had limited personal information accessed, and we are currently working through this with those impacted members. RMIT cyber-security research and innovation professor Matt Warren criticised the $4.1 trillion superannuation industry for still not implementing multifactor authentication to better protect its members personal information and retirement savings. Warren said while early indications had shown criminals did not drain thousands of Australians superannuation accounts, they had accessed personal information, including member numbers, that could be sold on the dark web. When you have weak authentication in a system, the consequence of someone gaining access to that system is they can now gain more information, he said. The attacks occurred in the early hours of the morning, so the attackers logged in, changed peoples passwords and any related information so customers wouldnt have been aware until they woke up. Its an organised group whos been planning this over weeks and months, and just implementing the attack now. According to assessments so far, the attack also affected about 200 Australian Retirement Trust members, but the criminals were unable to access any of their retirement savings, the fund said. We can confirm our digital security system identified unusual login activity and that impacted accounts were locked as a precaution, and members and regulators were notified, a spokesman for Australian Retirement Trust said. Loading We have not identified any suspicious transactions or modifications regarding these accounts. Insignia Financial, which owns the superannuation brands MLC and OnePath, confirmed suspicious activity on about 100 member accounts on the Expand platform, and that at this stage money had not been withdrawn. The funds Expand investment platform tends to be used by people working with financial advisers. Expand chief executive Liz McCarthy said the fund had decided to restrict some activities on its platforms to protect customer accounts, and its preliminary investigations have shown the attackers were using credential stuffing the practice of using leaked username and password combinations by exploiting the common practice of people reusing their passwords. While politicians and pundits have hyperventilated over the impact of US President Donald Trumps tariffs on Australias modest exports to the US, such as beef, Australian super funds and other professional investors have lost as much as $8 billion since January on Nvidia alone. It gives a taste of just how much Wall Streets train wreck performance overnight is where the real pain is for everyday Australians. Nvidia founder Jensen Huang is among those taking a big hit from the US presidents tariff regime. Credit: Bloomberg Our outsized wealth, and insatiable appetite for US stocks, means Australias most meaningful exposure is to this share rout, which is expected to continue if coming US economic indicators confirm the economic chaos being unleashed by Trump. Nothing demonstrates this better than Nvidias 6.8 per cent plunge on Wall Street overnight. When Project Sunrise starts, the A350s will carry 238 passengers across four classes first, business, premium economy and economy. In a sign of shifting consumer demand, more than 40 per cent of the cabin will be dedicated to premium seating. A more sparsely configured cabin to accommodate expanded premium areas will lighten the planes weight, permitting it to fly more efficiently for longer. Fully customisable lighting sequence: The new Qantas first-class suite planned for its A350 flights. Were hearing from our customers a greater desire to go point-to-point, Hudson said at the Airbus factory in Hamburg. And doing that in a premium and a comfortable seat is also something that customers are saying that they value, and theyre prepared to pay a premium for. The premium could be 20 per cent more than existing Qantas long-haul flights, she said. The premium experience comes with features designed to attract higher-paying customers. The coming A350s first-class cabins will have a fully customisable lighting sequence so customers can choose the time zone they want to be on for the duration of the flight effectively easing their jet lag. The Airbus will have a more spacious layout with wider cabins and larger windows, all engineered with the experience of a 20-plus hour-long flight in mind. Loading Qantas Project Sunrise takes its name from so-called Double Sunrise flights across the Indian Ocean by Qantas pilots during World War II. They remained airborne long enough to see two sunrises while crossing the Indian Ocean. Hudson told reporters in Hamburg that the first A350 is due to arrive with Qantas in 2026. The fleet, slated to grow to 12, will need at least three planes before the Sydney to London or Sydney to New York non-stop service can begin. Once delivered to Qantas, the planes will need certification from CASA before they can fly commercially. And even then, Qantas will take a phased approach to their rollout. Given that this aircraft is going to be flying such a long distance, well be doing lots of training with our pilots and our cabin crew, Hudson said. To do that, we will have that first aircraft, probably flying on the Tasman to New Zealand, where it gives us a little bit of time to stretch its legs, but not too far. Loading Hudson said Project Sunrise would actually start in the first half of 2027 when Qantas gets the three aircraft and then build from there. Manufacturing delays have stretched out the timeline for delivery of the A350s before. In 2022, Qantas said the A350-1000 ULR would be in service in 2025. The after-effects of the pandemic disruptions on industry, as well as design changes requested by regulators have added to the delay. University of Sydney professor Rico Merkert, who studies supply chains and transportation, said it would not be a good look for Qantas if they had to push the timeline out further for the delivery of the A350. For Airbus, its less problematic, he said, because at the moment every airline on the planet is trying to get new planes to save money on operating costs and lower emissions. The easiest way to do both was to renew fleets, he said. Initial flights across the Tasman make sense, Merkert said, because safety is of paramount importance with the planes new technological underpinnings. Safety is also part of the Qantas brand. Loading For Qantas, the addition of the A350s was expected to have a cascading effect on Qantas international fleet, freeing up other aircraft to fly point to point into the US, Hudson said, a capability similar to the narrow-body Airbus 321XLRs entering Qantas service in June, albeit with a much longer range. Eventually, Project Sunrise flights could connect Perth and London or Melbourne and Dallas, potentially Sydney and Dallas, Hudson said. Thats going to help free up Boeing 787s, which can then fly into other markets. Chicago would be great. Seattle would be great, seasonally into Las Vegas would be amazing, Hudson mused. Anywhere from Perth into other points, into Europe would also be considered. When we get to that point, we will assess all of those ports, and well focus the aircraft on the ones that we think will generate the best outcome for customers and our business. Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson aboard the unfinished Airbus 321XLR which Qantas will soon take delivery of. Credit: Airbus Qantas chief financial officer Rob Marcolina said that the evolution of technology underpinning the new A350s enabled Qantas to invert what had long been Australias geographical burden of distance. The A380 put pressure on Qantas in the early 2010s, when airlines such as Singapore, Qatar and Etihad started using middle-point destinations in the Middle East and Singapore to put more seat capacity in Australia. With Sunrise, we can fly over the top of them, Marcolina said. So our geographic disadvantage is actually our advantage in the sense that these aircraft have the ability to fly to anywhere around the world. Not only does Sunrise bank on Australian demand for premium, super-long flights, it created an opportunity to draw North American customers on a direct flight into Australia which would be massive, he said. The unique positioning of the Sunrise flights will demonstrate Qantass role as a national carrier on the global scale. Technology is enabling us to do that, he said. Chris Zappone travelled to Hamburg as a guest of Airbus and Qantas. Hidden in the job contracts of about one in five Australians are little clauses weighing down their chances of landing a pay rise or a better-fitting role. They might, for instance, ban you from working for any of your employers competitors for a set amount of time even after leaving your job. Or, they can prevent you from setting up your own business in the same industry. These are called non-compete clauses, and theyve been on the rise for the past five years. Non-compete clauses are weighing down the economy. Credit: Matt Davidson From 2027, non-compete clauses on workers earning less than $175,000 a year could be banned by a Labor government. But why are these clauses so bad? And will banning them make much of a difference for workers or the economy? Non-competes are mostly in place to protect business interests, but in some roles, they can be reasonable. For example, they might stop a big bank employee from sharing timely and confidential information or business secrets with a competitor or prevent them from taking client relationships theyve developed through the bank to another bank. While she was in prison for manslaughter, Stacey Edwards found solace in an unexpected place: she joined a weekly art class and was soon painting daily. It was a form of escapism for me, she says. I was able to go in a place where it felt like I wasnt in jail. Stacey Edwards, former prisoner and now artist, with Kent Morris, curator of the new show Black In-Justice and creative director of the Torch program. Credit: Justin McManus The 45-year-old Taungurong and Boonwurrung woman was able to save enough money selling her pieces while incarcerated to buy a house, thanks to The Torch program, which helps Indigenous prisoners connect with their culture through art. Edwards work will sit alongside some of this countrys top First Nations artists in a show opening this weekend at Heide, Blak In-Justice: Incarceration and Resilience. Advertisement Review Eating outFortitude Valley The low-key James Street restaurant that deserves your attention It may not be as glamorous as its neighbours, but a chef with NYC Michelin pedigree and a master sommelier help make this heritage-listed spot a must-visit. Matt Shea April 4, 2025 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 1 / 7 Fish and chips (beer batter chip, cured coral trout, tartare sauce and herbs). Markus Ravik 2 / 7 Trout row tart snack with egg yolk, yoghurt and chives. Markus Ravik 3 / 7 The Lodges fitout is relatively low-key, particularly when compared to its glamorous James Street neighbours. Markus Ravik 4 / 7 Grimaud duck sausage with ember-grilled fig and smoked ricotta. Markus Ravik 5 / 7 Line-caught Chris Bolton barramundi with summer corn, clam beurre blanc and basil. Markus Ravik 6 / 7 Presse of lamb shoulder with sweetbreads, rosemary, alliums and jus. Markus Ravik 7 / 7 Passionfruit pavlova with curd, sweetened cream and fresh passionfruit. Markus Ravik Previous Slide Next Slide Good Food hat 15 / 20 How we score Contemporary$$$$ Rodd & Gunn was opening a restaurant. Wait, that Rodd & Gunn? The New Zealand menswear label? And not just any restaurant but a James Street restaurant. What folly was this? The Lodge Bar & Dining which, yes, would be joined to a Rodd & Gunn retail store made sense in a tourist destination like Queenstown, where it originated. But here in Brisbane, surely it would stand exposed among the Essas, the Hellenikas, the Biancas and the SK Steak & Oysters, its thermal long johns around its ankles. Advertisement The Lodges fitout is relatively low-key, particularly when compared to its glamorous James Street neighbours. Markus Ravik That was more or less the general reaction back in 2022 when Rodd & Gunn announced The Lodge would move into the heritage-listed Lawless Grocery Store building on the corner of James and Robertson streets. But then you noticed Matt Lamberts name attached as group executive chef. Lambert earned his New York restaurant, The Musket Room, a Michelin star in 2014. Then you saw Cameron Douglas, New Zealands only master sommelier, had curated the wine list. And running the kitchen day-to-day would be James Evangelinos, who worked under Lambert in New York. Suddenly, this was a restaurant to take seriously. Related Article Comedian Matt Okine opens a cosy wine spot in Brisbanes south I first ate at The Lodge on an industry preview night, and I remember it being fine. The price point seemed a bit off and a couple of dishes overly mannered, but on that occasion, the restaurant was still ironing out its kinks pre-opening. I ate there three times subsequently and every time, it got a little tighter, a little more refined. Advertisement And you underestimate Lambert at your peril. The guy is a weapon. Hell self-deprecate and say he overthinks things. But in a restaurant, that equates to a laser-focused eye for detail for both back and front of house. Hence that star, I guess. The snacks are arguably the star of the show at The Lodge Bar & Dining. Markus Ravik It was a local restaurant owner who messaged me about a month ago singing The Lodges praises, saying it was one of the best meals hed eaten in the city in a long while, and that I needed to head back. So, I did. Its one of those weird pre-Alfred nights when I visit with a dining partner; the weather is all over the shop, meaning the restaurant is relatively quiet. Advertisement Fish and chips (beer batter chip, cured coral trout, tartare sauce and herbs). Markus Ravik On first impression, The Lodges design isnt necessarily anything youll want to bang on to your mates about. With its flagstone walls and American oak floors and ceilings, its comfy and refined rather than glamorous. But the layout split across multiple rooms and perhaps dictated to the designers by its heritage-listed digs suits a night like this. Were one of the few tables in the place, but we never feel like the final customers in an empty, echoey dining hall. You imagine a venue like The Lodge, with all its nooks and crannies and kitchen tucked away on the ground floor, is a pain to oversee, but the service on our night doesnt miss a beat. Its knowledgeable but friendly and matter of fact: questions are answered with ease, empty plates and glasses swiftly addressed. Trout row tart snack with egg yolk, yoghurt and chives. Markus Ravik The Lodge was one of the earlier Brisbane restaurants to go hard on snacks. Chefs tend to love snack menus because they can let their creativity run wild over a bunch of smaller dishes. For diners, theyre a chance to try something they otherwise might not have, but these bite-sized plates still need to deliver perceived value. Advertisement We start with three. Miso-glazed Ora King salmon skewers are delicious enough, but theyre eclipsed by a Fish and Chips battered chip, cured coral trout, tartare sauce and dill and a trout roe tart with egg yolk, yoghurt and chives. Grimaud duck sausage with ember-grilled fig and smoked ricotta. Markus Ravik The former has an occasionally homesick Kiwi like me swooning with memories of newspaper-wrapped tarakihi and chips on the beach (so, admittedly, Aussie mileage may vary). The latter is a lesson in how texture dictates so much of our enjoyment in food, the pop of the roe giving way to the velvety mouthfeel of the yolk and yoghurt, and then the crunch of a squid-ink pasta-biscuit base. Its been on The Lodge menu (in its more expensive caviar form) since launch, and dear lord, long may it remain. A Grimaud duck sausage entree served with ember-grilled fig and smoked ricotta is perhaps the star of the night. A brush of smoked duck fat to finish echoes Lamberts time at The Musket Room and leaves the meat with a lovely, unctuous flavour thats offset by the juiciness of the fig. Lambert reckons he conceived this dish on the fly but, either way, its brilliantly done. Advertisement Line-caught Chris Bolton barramundi with summer corn, clam beurre blanc and basil. Markus Ravik For mains we order a market fish of panfried wild barramundi sourced from in-demand North Queensland fisher Chris Bolton. With so much farmed stuff now on the market, getting reacquainted with barra caught on the line is a minor revelation, the fish firm but supple, with a lovely mild taste and none of the muddiness of its captive cousin. This is what chefs mean when talking about sustainable, produce-driven dishes, even if a liberal dash of summer corn slightly overpowers the accompanying clam beurre blanc. A presse of New Zealand lamb shoulder is our second main. Lambert has eschewed a traditional presse and instead tightly rolled the meat and finished it on the pan, creating a dish that, when served with gently cooked onions, fried sweetbreads, alliums and rosemary, captures the spirit of a classic Kiwi roast without drifting into pastiche. Presse of lamb shoulder with sweetbreads, rosemary, alliums and jus. Markus Ravik The wines we choose throughout add up to a fine showcase of how far New Zealand winemaking has come over the past few decades. We try a bunch over the early plates and the pick is a Soho Carter chardonnay from Waiheke Island slightly spicy and with a fabulous textural slate in the delivery, its a proper banger. Later, I go Old World organic with a chilled Marcel Joubert Beaujolais Villages gamay thats juicy and fresh and laced with dashes of black cherry a great wine at a great price point. Advertisement We finish with a pair of desserts. A passionfruit pavlova thats encased in its own meringue will make you wonder why this wasnt the way it was always served. A deconstructed carrot cake sundae, on the other hand, is the only clear miss of the night, with its ice-cream centre frozen into a rock-hard puck, perhaps the result of too much nitrogen, Lambert tells me later. Passionfruit pavlova with curd, sweetened cream and fresh passionfruit. Markus Ravik Still, the reason it sticks out is that everything else on the plate has been so exactingly accomplished. Talk to industry folk about The Lodge and theyll chew your ear off about those snacks, and theres an argument here that theyre so good, they almost outshine everything else. Then again, perhaps its just a case of a meals diminishing marginal returns (a concept semi-popularised in food circles by University of Nevada economics professor Eric Chiang, whose thoughts on how to tackle a Vegas buffet are worth checking out). Advertisement But The Lodge is flexible enough to approach on your own terms, and unfussy enough that youll want to come back before long. Perhaps it flies under the radar a little when compared to its James Street neighbours but, make no mistake, this considered, precise eatery deserves your attention. The low-down Vibe: Low-key Kiwi-influenced dining in a James Street heritage landmark. Go-to dish: Grimaud duck sausage with ember-grilled fig and smoked ricotta. Drinks: A cracking selection of New Zealand wines, along with old world drops and signature and classic cocktails that lean on Kiwi spirits. Cost: About $200 for two, plus drinks. A former Brisbane doctor who trafficked a breathtaking amount of prescription medication to bikie gang members has been jailed. John Robert Ullman, 57, pleaded guilty on Friday in Queensland Supreme Court to one count of drug trafficking and nine counts of drug supply. Justice Rebecca Treston heard Ullman used his clinic at Chermside in Brisbanes north as a front to illegally sell the anti-anxiety drug benzodiazepine and steroids. John Robert Ullman pleaded guilty on Friday in Queensland Supreme Court. Credit: Dan Peled Crown prosecutor Sam Sherrie said Ullman sold drugs on 76 occasions to 31 people over almost three years to September 2020, including to members of the Comanchero bikie gang. A man has been charged over the alleged murder of notorious bikie Mohammed Akbar Keshtiar, who was gunned down outside his apartment building in South Yarra almost two years ago. Keshtiar, known as Afghan Ali, died in hospital after being shot several times while walking along Almeida Crescent, South Yarra, about 11.40pm on August 4, 2023. Detectives arrest a man in connection with the shooting death of bikie Mohammed Akbar Keshtiar. Police said on Friday that a 23-year-old Narre Warren man, later identified as Adris Kheyali, had been arrested in Dandenong with help from the special operations group. He has been charged with murder and conduct endangering life. Footage captured of the arrest showed detectives escorting a barefooted man, dressed in a T-shirt and camouflage khaki pants, to an unmarked police car. He was one of the first people banned from entering Crown Casino and helped spark a ban on suspected organised crime figures from racetracks when he attended Oaks Day at Flemington while on bail. Mokbel became so well-known in Melbourne that referring to him by his unflattering nickname Fat Tony was enough to identify him. When Mokbel absconded in March 2006 hidden in a yacht that sailed from Fremantle, it sparked a worldwide manhunt. His time on the run came to end in Greece in 2007 when he was arrested wearing a wig as a disguise. Back then iPhones werent yet released and Melbournes underworld was at the end of a long and bloody war that had cost, by some accounts, 30 lives. Going to jail has helped preserve Mokbel as one of the last men standing, with a score of his enemies and allies now dead. Inside he was the Barwon Prince, a power in the high-security Acacia and Melaleuca units where he spent virtually all of his time. Credit: Matt Golding It was Mokbel who tipped off new gangland boss George Marrogi that his drug empire was collapsing. He brokered prison truces and made introductions for new alliances. That came back to bite him in 2019 when a Herald Sun story trumpeting Mokbels power inside led to him being stomped and stabbed to within an inch of his life by gang members who took exception to the claim. Its been said Mokbel now has a serious acquired brain injury as a result of the prison attack but his performance while on the stand during his hearings for his appeal showed someone who doesnt seem to miss a step. In 2020, as the true scope of the misconduct by his former barrister Nicola Gobbo and Victoria Police came to light in a royal commission, Mokbel allegedly became so incensed that he threatened one of the officers who locked him up. In the 17 years and 10 months that hes been in jail, theres never been any sign that Mokbel has left his past behind. And while todays gangland has become a radically different place in the nearly two decades since he was on the streets with new bosses, more money at stake, and what many regard as a far more violent scene Mokbel isnt likely to find his safety at risk. Mokbel was arrested in Greece in 2007. In fact if he chooses he will probably be welcomed back as a kind of elder statesman, the OG boss who survived and, eventually, beat the system. Ill tell you whos done the best job at this the whole underworld started through Tony. Tony was the money man. He showed how it could be a business, a proper business. He was the first, an underworld source said. Loading It certainly doesnt appear like Mokbel will be doing it hard on the outside. His supporters were coming to pay homage even as his lawyers were still arguing he should be granted bail at a hearing on Tuesday, arriving in a bright orange Lamborghini. They were back again on Friday, this time in a Mercedes-Benz wagon. And when Fat Tony was ushered out of the Court of Appeal, just after 1:30pm, he was whisked away in a waiting Mercedes. Mokbel had private security vehicles follow him from the courthouse back to his bail address. A news helicopter tracked his every move as the car made a long loop around the city, heading to his sisters modest, unassuming home in Viewbank where he has been bailed to live. Its not the luxe Port Melbourne penthouse he used to once call home, but its a start. Security remained parked nearby as an almost overwhelming contingent of media prompted neighbours to walk out into the street and inquire what all the fuss was about. Aveley Secondary College in Perths north-east has released a statement after a student was arrested over the alleged assault of a 14-year-old fellow student at Ellenbrook Central shopping centre on Wednesday. The incident after school was witnessed by numerous onlookers who described seeing the boy approached by a group of others and allegedly assaulted. Police have confirmed the alleged attacker and victim were known to each other. The incident allegedly happened at Ellenbrook Central. The teen was left with serious facial injuries including a broken jaw and was having seizures, his father said on Friday, calling for justice and claiming other students stood by watching and filming the alleged incident. The 14-year-old, who is in Perth Childrens Hospital, was conscious on Friday, but his MRI scans showed some bleeding on the brain. Labor is exposed to a slump in support in the nations two most populous states despite a political recovery in recent weeks, putting key seats at risk in NSW and Victoria due to the weakness of the partys primary vote. An exclusive survey shows the Labor primary vote has fallen to 30 per cent in NSW and 27 per cent in Victoria in the first three months of this year, down from 33 per cent in each state at the last election. Anthony Albanese prepares to greet Peter Dutton on Friday in Sydney. Credit: James Brickwood The survey also reveals a shift in the governments favour in both states since the start of this year, although it has not been enough to make up all the ground Labor has lost over the past three years. While Prime Minister Anthony Albanese regained a personal lead over Opposition Leader Peter Dutton over the past month, the new analysis reveals the daunting task for Labor in securing majority government on May 3. The new-look shadow cabinet will include a portfolio dedicated to deregulation as well as public sector reform and AUKUS. The Liberals and Nationals have agreed to form a joint interim shadow cabinet ahead of a raft of new upper house MPs entering parliament in May. Opposition leader Basil Zempilas and Nationals leader Shane Love announcing the new shadow cabinet. Credit: Hamish Hastie Opposition leader Basil Zempilas and Leader of The Nationals WA Shane Love unveiled the shadow cabinet on Friday, which confirmed former Liberal leader Libby Mettam as opposition health spokeswoman. Mettam has been loaded up with some of the most important portfolios on top of health and her deputy opposition leader responsibilities, including mental health, family and domestic violence, defence industries and AUKUS. London: British police on Friday charged Russell Brand with rape and sexual assault following an 18-month investigation sparked when four women alleged they had been assaulted by the controversial comedian. Londons Metropolitan Police force said Brand, 50, faces one count of rape, one of indecent assault, one of oral rape and two of sexual assault. UK comedian Russell Brand attending the the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee last year. Credit: Getty Images The alleged offences involve four women and took place between 1999 and 2005. In September 2023, British media outlets Channel 4 and the Sunday Times published claims by four women of being sexually assaulted or raped by Brand. The accusers have not been identified. A CARLOW student was honoured alongside her peers at Accounting Technicians Irelands (ATI) graduate ceremony in Dublin recently. Hacketstown native Clodagh Byrne was one of many graduates celebrated at the ceremony, which recognised the achievements of graduates across three ATI programmes accounting technician apprenticeship, higher-level apprenticeship and diploma for accounting technicians. ATI boasts a list of programmes suitable for school leavers and those changing career or looking to get back to work with an interest in money management. ATI qualifications combine professional exams and assessments with practical work experience, while students can study full-time, part-time, online and as apprentices with ATI. Tom Tuite A Westmeath woman has told a court a criminal forced her to store drugs after he "stuck a gun to my head" and threatened to kill and drive a knife through her jugular. Amy O'Connor (40), of Auburn Heights, Athlone, pleaded guilty to possessing drugs on January 18th, 2020, which were worth more than 13,000, an offence that can carry a 10-year sentence. This week's Mullingar Circuit Criminal Court sessions heard O'Connor once travelled to Venezuela to visit her former partner Leigh O'Neill and his brother Dermot. The Athlone men had been jailed in South America for drug offences. However, the pair broke out of prison and returned to Ireland in 2013 but have since died. O'Connor told Judge Keenan Johnson she broke it off with Leigh about 10 years ago. However, in late 2019, she came into contact with a person she previously knew through Leigh. The mother of three maintained this man made her drive to another location in Westmeath, held a knife to her and said, "You will do what your f***ing told you w***e, or I will drive it through your jugular." She told the court that the man "stuck a gun to my head" and kept it pointed at her during the drive while threatening to kill her. O'Connor said they met another man to collect the cannabis, and the pair "joked about putting me in the boot". Visibly upset, she said that on another occasion, the same man left a knife outside her home, threatened her family, and she was terrified. The prosecution challenged her account but she maintained she was afraid and being watched. Although she admitted having the drugs, she still disputes portions of the prosecution evidence, which resulted in what is known as a Newton hearing. She denies that she was ever involved in selling or supplying the cannabis uncovered in her home. Garda Stephanie Treacy said she carried out surveillance and observed several people calling to O'Connor's home, but they did not stay long. However, she did not witness any item changing hands. A warrant was obtained, and the house was searched, resulting in gardai uncovering vacuum-packed bags in O'Connor's bedroom, and she admitted ownership but later told gardai she was threatened. The total value was 67,660, and gardai had no record of her attempts to inform them of the situation. During her interview, she said that the drugs belonged to the man she knew through her now-deceased ex-partner Leigh O'Neill. However, she did not give gardai the PIN to her phone, which they could not unlock and in court O'Connor said she could not remember it due to a brain injury she suffered last year. She claimed she repeatedly tried to contact the local garda station directly, including the drug unit's number, but never dialled 999. John Shortt SC, defending, submitted that his client had also given an account of being attacked previously, but the CCTV evidence was unavailable, and she had made numerous attempts to seek help from gardai. A psychological report has also been drafted and furnished to the court. The case resumes later this month. Advertisement The recommendations of an independent review into Defras regulatory landscape by Dan Corry have been welcomed by the UKs quarry operators. The Mineral Products Association (MPA) says Corrys report on environmental regulators and regulations is encouraging and, if the recommendations are implemented, could pave the way for Defra to deliver better outcomes for nature and for the economy. Among the important suggestions in the Corry review are actions to improve cooperation between different regulators on major projects, to reduce duplication and overlap in applying the rules. Proposals have also been included to retain staff who have specialist sector expertise and to give trusted organisations greater autonomy to fast-track nature recovery schemes. The MPA highlights key recommendations from the review that are relevant to the mineral products sector, including: Support better cooperation between regulators and appoint a lead regulator for all major projects in which multiple regulators have an interest MPA members and their customers deal with multiple regulatory and planning bodies which leads to significant inefficiency so streamlining would be welcome. Assess potential for regulators to have targeted pay flexibility so they can employ and retain staff, particularly specialist staff Minerals is a specialist industry and there is a clear lack of capacity and capability in the regulators, causing delays and poor decisions. Set up a programme of experiments or sandboxes where regulators identify projects where they will waive regulations and measure the results MPA members could make great use of regulatory sandboxes to support innovation and decarbonisation and are keen to explore this further. Accelerate the work to update the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 to allow regulators more flexibility to take sensible, risk-based decisions The current regulations favour fossil fuel technologies and do not support net zero or a circular economic model, both areas in which MPA members are striving to make good progress. The recommended programme of reform for specific regulations should also assess instances of overlap and duplication in the application of regulations MPA members often report that there is a huge amount of duplication in regulation at the moment; reducing this would benefit regulators and businesses alike. Allow trusted nature conservation and environmental partners and other organisations with good track records greater autonomy, through memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and wider deployment of class licences enabling them to move fast on restoring nature without applying to regulators for multiple permissions ? MPA members and their key wildlife organisation partners could make great use of this to extend the industrys well-established track record of restoration and achieve even more for nature. Defra needs to quickly evaluate and improve the current compliance nature market schemes (including biodiversity net gain (BNG) and nutrients credits) to make any early adjustments needed to maximise their delivery The current metric for BNG is designed for housing and other forms of permanent developments but does not work well for quarries which represent temporary use of land. This potentially incentivises quicker but less ambitious restoration schemes rather than the landscape scale, priority habitat-rich work the minerals sector wants to do. Reviewing this has been a key ask for some time. The MPAs recent Quarries & Nature 2025, held in London last month, celebrated the close partnership between the mineral products industry and wildlife organisations, such as RSPB and the Wildlife Trusts. Working together, the industry and conservationists are implementing high-quality management programmes and restoration schemes nationwide that significantly enhance biodiversity. In recent decades, more than 83km2 of UK priority habitat have already been delivered, with a further 110km2 in the pipeline. Mark Russell, executive director of MPA, said: This review contains lots of ideas that are really welcome, and we hope to see them implemented. The mineral products sector is committed to delivering huge benefits for nature while supplying essential materials for the economy, and this review suggests better ways to encourage both of these. The key challenge is delivery, and we will be pushing Defra and the regulators to ensure this review leads to change. The mineral products industry is deeply committed to high environmental standards and nature recovery, as demonstrated at Quarries & Nature 2025, but our members are also often frustrated by how slowly and inefficiently regulation is applied. Regulators that are effective and focussed on enabling better outcomes for business and the environment are an important part of the UKs need to deliver on economic growth and nature recovery. Lewis Harold Hamilton, 60, of Hixson, Tennessee, passed away on March 24, 2025, in a local facility. Born in Atlanta, on Nov. 23, 1964, Harold was the beloved son of George and Lois Hamilton. A graduate of Hixson High School, Class of 1983, he went on to build a successful career in the automotive industry. He served as the finance director at Capital Toyota before following his entrepreneurial spirit and opening his own dealership, Harold Hamilton Auto Sales. Harold lived life to the fullest. He was a world traveler, an adventurous spirit, and a certified scuba diver. He had a passion for motorcycles, loved to fish, and never missed an opportunity for a great story or a good laugh. Above all, he cherished his family and the friendships he built along the way. He is survived by his loving children, Heather Conyers and Hunter Hamilton, who will carry forward his legacy of resilience, adventure, and kindness. He also leaves behind his devoted sister, Cindy Robinson; his cherished grandchildren, Starr, Jade, TJ, Ja'Niyah, Jream, and others; and his dear cousin, Bill Maynard. His presence, laughter, and love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A memorial service will be held at Hamilton Funeral Home on Saturday, April 12, at 11 a.m. to honor and celebrate his life. Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, 423 531-3975. The art and craft of writing books have fascinated me for a long time. Having written, co-authored and edited more than 20 books myself, I know its a complicated, challenging endeavor. Author Philip Yancey has described the writing process as something like this: All you have to do is sit at the computer, fingers on the keyboard, until beads of blood appear on your forehead. (Who said writing is no sweat?) I identify very well with another of Yanceys observations about writing: I hate to write but I love to have written. Sometimes I can be extremely creative in procrastinating from sitting at the keyboard, but the end result from the hard work of writing can be very rewarding. Over the years, Ive had the privilege of meeting and interacting with a number of other authors. Ive concluded that we writers are a strange bunch, many leaning toward being introverts since we spend so much time inside our own heads. Most of us will never meet our favorite authors especially ones like Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, the Bronte sisters, William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and many other literary greats who have passed from the scene. But in reading their books, we can capture a glimpse of who they are (or were). Because most of the time, authors write about things that interest or intrigue them. For instance, horrormeister Stephen King (whom Ive met) obviously has a fascination with things that go bump in the night. As did Edgar Allan Poe. Agatha Christie must have thought it great fun to conjure up a good mystery. John Grisham revels in courtroom drama. And Arthur C. Clarke and Isaac Asimov had a particular penchant for the collision of science and futuristic fiction. However, while books offer a glimpse into what authors think about, their writings dont always reveal much about what theyre really like in real life. Are they as clever and engaging in person as characters in their books? Do they have sinister, brooding personalities? Would we enjoy being their friend? On the other hand, dont you think youd understand a book better if you truly knew its author? At this point we should note a very important difference between every other book andthe Bible. Consisting of 66 books (39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament), compiled from about 40 different people who wrote under the inspiration of God, the Bible truly is the Word of God. Its pages teach us not only what interests Him but also reveals who He is in extraordinary detail. As 2 Timothy 3:16 informs us, All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. One new believer concluded after reading this verse, God wrote a book! Not only that, but despite its many sub-books and numerous human writers, the Bible is unique in that it carries one central theme that spanned thousands of years: redemption through Jesus Christ. Books, whether produced on physical paper or displayed on an electronic screen, consist of words, sentences and paragraphs. The Scriptures tell us something about Jesus that no one else has or could ever claim: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us (John 1:1,14). If we wonder what God is like, we need look no further than to Jesus. As Hebrews 1:3 tells us, He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. In one of his books, Yancey expressed it this way: Jesus became the visible, finite expression of the invisible, infinite, inexpressible God. When we think of famous authors, Jesus Christ might not be the first name to roll off our tongues. But the Bible states Jesus indeed was an author in the most profound sense. Speaking to a crowd of people at a place in Jerusalem called Solomons Colonnade, the apostle Peter declared, You killed the author of life, but God raised Him from the dead (Acts 3:15). Later in the New Testament we find another reference to Jesus authorship. Hebrews 12:2 urges us, Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Both passages show Jesus as a different type of author, not the writer of a singular work of non-fiction or fiction, but the giver of life itself. Even though we have beating hearts, blood pulsing through our veins, and air in our lungs, the Scriptures teach that apart from Christ we are spiritually dead. Yet because of what He has done on our behalf, we can experience and enjoy new life: because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions it is by grace you have been saved (Ephesians 2:4-5). Another verse Ive cited before speaks of this new life, available to everyone who will receive it: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me (Galatians 2:20). Receiving Christs gift of salvation, forgiveness and redemption not only assures us of life after death, but also eternal life right now. We know this because of what God says in the Bible: I write these things to you who believe in the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life (1 John 5:13). Note this doesnt say, you will have eternal life, but rather, you have eternal life present tense. The Lord doesnt just want to turn a page on our lives. He wants to start writing a new book in us. I like how James Banks, a devotional writer for Our Daily Bread, put it: The author of life stands ready to write new beginnings for us! Doesnt that sound good? * * * Robert J. Tamasy is a veteran journalist, former newspaper editor, and magazine editor. Bob has written, co-authored and edited more than 20 books. These include Marketplace Ambassadors; Business At Its Best: Timeless Wisdom from Proverbs for Todays Workplace; Tufting Legacies, The Heart of Mentoring, and Pursuing Life With a Shepherds Heart. He writes and edits a weekly business meditation, Monday Manna, which is translated into nearly 20 languages and distributed via email around the world by CBMC International. The address for Bob's blog is www.bobtamasy.blogspot.com. His email address is btamasy@comcast.net. Drivers traveling near the I-75 at I-24 interchange in Hamilton County should be aware of upcoming road construction activities that will temporarily impact traffic. As part of Phase 2 (the second of two projects) to widen and improve the I-75 at I-24 interchange, Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) contract crews must implement weekend lane closures on I-75 near the SR 153 interchange to repair damaged concrete roadway slabs. This work is scheduled to take place over the next several weekends. Beginning Friday, at 9 p.m. and continuing through Monday, at 6 a.m., contract crews will close the right lane on I-75 North from the bridge over the CSX railroad to East Brainerd Road. Drivers traveling I-75 North to Exit 3A (East Brainerd Road) are encouraged to use extreme caution, as the entrance to this exit ramp will be temporarily shifted to the North of its current location to facilitate this work. Signs will be posted directing drivers through the modified traffic pattern. I-75 South will not be affected by this work. As soon as the new concrete cures long enough to pass the required strength testing, the roadway will reopen to traffic. Drivers should consider an alternate route and are encouraged to avoid the area during these times. Significant delays are expected. Drivers should follow all posted signage and remain alert to changing traffic conditions. This work is weather-dependent. Should inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances cause delays, it will be rescheduled to take place at a later date. Uniformed police officers will be present to assist with traffic control and law enforcement. Additional information and resources can be found on the projects website: https://www.tn.gov/tdot/ projects/region-2/i-75- interchange-at-i-24-phase2. html . As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel. Get the latest construction activity traffic updates from the TDOT SmartWay Map. Travelers can also call 511 for statewide travel information. The Move Over Law was passed in 2006. The penalty for violating the law in Tennessee can be up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine of up to $500. Chattanooga firefighters responded to Koch Foods Inc. in Lookout Valley Friday afternoon after several workers found themselves in a sticky situation. Green Shift companies were called at 2:06 p.m. to 1001 Birmingham Highway on a medical emergency and possible rescue operation after receiving reports of an unconscious person in a silo. Upon CFDs arrival, it was discovered that the silos were empty and contracted workers were working inside one of the silos. One of those workers was outside of the silo after suffering a fall and he was transported to the hospital by HCEMS. Three other workers were inside the silo on a platform that had malfunctioned. The moving platform was 60 feet off the ground from the bottom of the silo. Firefighters started to monitor the air quality inside the silo and a supervisor was able to get in touch with the crew up on the platform. He informed everyone that the workers were alright and that they were able to get the platform fixed. The workers made their way down on the platform and CFD personnel helped them off the platform at the opening of the silo. Patient care was turned over to EMS as the workers were checked for dehydration due to the high temps inside the silo. Officials learned that the injured worker had started climbing down a pipe inside the silo and got 20 feet from bottom when he fell off the pipe. He managed to climb the rest of the way out of the silo. The extent of his injuries is unknown. Once everyone was out of the silo, CFD units returned to service. Squad 20, Engine 3, Squad 13, Squad 7, Battalion 1, USAR 1 and Special Operations responded. Lynne R. Walsh, 80, of McDonald, Tennessee and recently of Staunton, Virginia, passed away in her sleep on February 23, 2025. Born on March 24, in New Westminster, BC, Lynne is survived by her nephew, Shane Traquair and his wife Teri, her brother, Donald Robinson and her sister-in-laws, Jane and Ann Walsh. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Frederick H Walsh III and her sister Muriel R Traquair. Lynne retired from the Chickamauga Battlefield which gave her more time to pursue her interests. She was a working member of the Back Country Horse Club of Tennessee. She enjoyed trail riding with the Gold Spurs. Lynne was also an avid member of the Tennessee Horse Council. Her passion for cats was shown by her dedication to the Chattanooga Humane Educational Society. She volunteered for years by socializing kitties, making toys and supporting them in every way possible. Lynne lived a life full of kindness and generosity. A celebration of life will be held at Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway in Chattanooga, on April 10, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Education Society in Chattanooga or St Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Lynnes honor. Lynne will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Please share your thoughts and memories online at www. ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel. com Announcement is by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421. The Chattanooga Public Library announces new services that expand access to books for library patrons: Firefly Interlibrary Loans and new Library Smart Lockers. With these new services, CPL patrons now have additional access to books at other Tennessee libraries and more location options for picking up and returning library materials. Interlibrary loans have been around for many years, but with the Firefly service from Tenn-Share, CPL can now offer even more books through a network of 213 participating libraries in Tennessee. After trying out the service for the past year to great success, CPL is now letting library patrons know that they can access more books through the ILL service at no cost, with up to three ILL loans at a time. Similarly, CPL has spent the past year testing out new library lockers. The new Smart Lockers expand the librarys footprint in Chattanooga by offering a secure location to pick up library materials in closer-to-home locations. Functioning much like Amazon or USPS lockers, CPL patrons will receive a notification with a pin code to retrieve items. By partnering with the city of Chattanoogas Community Centers, library materials can now be picked up and returned at one of three neighborhood community centers: Don Eaves Heritage House Community Center, 1428 Jenkins Road Eastdale Community Center, 1312 Moss St. John A. Patten Community Center, 3202 Kellys Ferry Road We would love to have a library in every neighborhood throughout Chattanooga, said CPLs Executive Director Will OHearn. But with these new services, we can offer our patrons access to not only a vast collection of books but also more pickup locations, which is the next best thing. So what are you waiting for? Book it over to our website to check us out. More information about these services and other CPL services, events, and programs can be found online at chattlibrary.org. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Astronaut Barry "Butch" Wilmore, who returned to Earth after 286 days at the International Space Station, speaks at a NASA press conference in Houston, Texas, on March 31, 2025. | Screenshot: YouTube/ ABC News One of the NASA astronauts who recently returned to Earth after spending over nine months at the International Space Station (ISS) shared that virtually attending church services played a crucial role in sustaining him spiritually during his time in orbit. Barry "Butch" Wilmore spoke at a press conference in Houston alongside fellow astronaut Suni Williams, emphasizing the importance of maintaining virtual connections with Providence Baptist Church, his home church in Pasadena, Texas. He described virtual church services as vital as their originally planned eight-day trip extended to 286 days due to technical issues. Wilmore, who has attended Providence Baptist with his family for 17 years and serves as an elder there, led devotionals and participated in singing Amazing Grace with fellow astronauts, as noted in a recent interview with CBN. During the press briefing, he said he also streamed services from Grace Baptist Church in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, where a friend serves as pastor and elder. When asked why attending services from space was significant to him, Wilmore explained, The Word of God continually infilling me, I need it. He expressed admiration for his pastors, stating, My pastors are the finest pastors on or off, in this case the planet. And to tie in and to worship with my church family was vital. I mean, it's part of what makes me go. Wilmore discussed how people's lives are often bound up in many things, sharing, For me, it's faith in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the end-all, be-all. He forgives us. He cited the teachings of his faith regarding contentment in all situations, noting, He's working out His plan and His purposes for His glory and our good, and I believe that because the Bible says that. He acknowledged that faith does not eliminate pain or sorrow, stating, It doesn't mean always happy, it doesn't mean there's no pain, but content and knowing that God's in control; a sovereign God's in control, working out His plan and His purpose. Who's lived a life without pain? I mean, no one. That's the nature of existence. Who's lived a life without sorrow? Who's lived a life without challenges? It grows us, we learn from it, and that's the focus that I try to take from it: What's the Lord trying to show me? Wilmore and his fellow astronauts returned from the ISS on March 18 with the assistance of the SpaceX Dragon capsule. In relation to their return, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has stated that the Biden administration declined his offer to assist in retrieving the crew to avoid giving the Trump supporter a victory during the election season. Wilmore corroborated Musk's statement, saying, is absolutely factual, though he admitted he was unaware of the specifics of any closed-door meetings regarding their situation. Home News Ariz. man found guilty of hoax bomb threat targeting 4 churches An Arizona man was found guilty by a federal jury of targeting four churches as part of a hoax bomb threat aimed at disrupting their worship services. Zimnako Salah, a 45-year-old resident of Phoenix, was found guilty on Thursday of securing a backpack around a toilet at a California church as part of the bomb threat. Salah traveled to four churches in three states California, Arizona and Colorado with a black backpack in tow. At two of the churches he managed to leave the backpacks containing the hoax bomb threats. At two other locations, however, he was stopped by church security. 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 According to a U.S. Department of Justice press release on Friday, Salah had also been in the process of building an actual bomb that could fit inside a backpack. Salah's sentencing is scheduled for July 18 before U.S. District Judge Dena Coggins. He faces a maximum penalty of six years behind bars and a fine of $250,000. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith for the Eastern District of California was quoted in the press release as noting that Salah wasn't simply engaging in a prank with his deeds. His actions were designed to threaten and intimidate the congregation because he disagreed with their religious beliefs, said Beckwith. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of federal and local law enforcement and the attorneys from my office and our DOJ partners in Washington D.C., our communities are safer with yesterdays verdict. People of all religions should be able to worship freely and exercise their First Amendment rights in this country without fear of violence. Salah was a mechanic who claimed to have served as a U.S. Army interpreter and reportedly had a history of mental illness. When he left a backpack attached to a toilet inside a church in Roseville, California, the congregation was forced to evacuate the building. Last year, Salah was indicted for this action, as well as for leaving a backpack at a church in Arizona, and attempting to do the same at a church in Colorado and another near San Diego, California. Salah also held anti-American views, with court documents describing an altercation he had with a neighbor who was wearing a hat with a U.S. flag on it, according to The Sacramento Bee. He also reportedly had a storage unit that displayed an antisemitic statement painted on the wall in Kurdish along with a reference to the [Islamic prophet] Muhammad, according to court papers quoted by the Bee. According to a report by the Family Research Council released last year, there were 436 attacks against churches in 2023, which was over twice the number reported by the group in 2022. From January through November 2023, the FRC report found at least 315 acts of vandalism, 75 acts of arson or attempted arson, 10 gun-related incidents, 20 bomb threats and 37 other incidents at churches. Home News Baptists minister to the 'hopeless' in tornado-stricken Missouri, share hope in Christ POPLAR BLUFF, Missouri Carla Robinette recalled the March 14 tornado that struck her town and home as a frightful experience that stirred up "a lot of fear." "I was laying in my bed, then I heard crashing and thundering, and I just asked the Lord to help me," the Poplar Bluff resident said. "He did, and I thank Him every day." After the storm, she discovered she "had trees down on the back of my house." 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 "My back porch is just demolished, fence damaged, just a lot of debris, limbs down," she said. Her experience was mirrored by thousands in the area after the EF3 tornado hit the southeast Missouri town. Several tornadoes carved a trail of destruction in 27 Missouri counties, leaving 12 dead across the state, including one in Poplar Bluff. Robinette told her story as members of the Texans on Mission Harmony-Pittsburg disaster response team cleared downed limbs and removed debris from her house and yard. Watching the team's efforts, she responded: "You don't know what it means [to me], it means a whole lot. It means gratitude, it means appreciation, and I just thank the Lord that y'all are Texans on Mission and that y'all are able to help do this sort of work." She said the team members were "very nice, very polite, very friendly and very gung-ho to do their work. They love the Lord, and I appreciate that." Harmony-Pittsburg Unit Leader Bruce Slaven detailed the damage in Robinette's neighborhood. "If you walk around this block, you'll see a number of homes that have been damaged from the tornado, and you'll see Texans on Mission groups from all over helping these people here in Poplar Bluff," Slaven said. "Today, we're going to be taking some limbs off this house; we're going to be cutting them up and moving them out the front so the city can pick them up, and hopefully, before the end of the day, these people will look like they just didn't have any damage at all." "But our first duty in this job is to tell others about Christ," Slaven added. "These people, a lot of them, they're sitting there, they're hopeless, they need help, and that's why we're here: To help them and then to give them the hope that they can carry on with their lives." Steve Gilbert, who served as a chaplain with the TXM Collin County response team, agreed. "My role as a chaplain is not as much to take care of our chainsaw team members, which I also do, and looking out for their safety, but my heart is really dedicated to helping and ministering to the homeowners, those that were affected in many ways by the tragedies that have happened," he said. "With one homeowner," Gilbert said, "I am sensing that there actually is a spiritual need there, so I always try to get inside their heart a little bit during the time I can minister [to them]." Gilbert said that the response groups always present a Bible that everybody on the team has signed. "And I usually leave a Scripture with them, and we give that as a personal presentation, just helping them understand that we do not do this for any compensation other than ministering to them and their needs," said Gilbert. "And we know we are at any given place on any given day because that is where God wanted us to be. That speaks to everybody's heart, whether they are a believer or not." 'Phenomenal damage' The recovery effort spans the length of the city, according to a map of the tornado's path. Wendell Romans, TXM's state chainsaw coordinator, called the scale of the damage and response "a huge deployment for Texans on Missions." "The devastation that we're finding is so widespread that we're going to need probably every chainsaw team we have, and we're talking about bringing in some outside teams also, but the damage is just phenomenal," he said. Romans said leadership and assessment teams were deployed to Poplar Bluff within hours of the storm. "We were contacted by Missouri [Baptist Convention] Disaster Relief to come help them with the chainsaw relief. We responded just as soon as we could and were here within probably eight hours after they contacted us," Romans explained. "It was a pretty quick response because we know what it's like to go through something like this," he continued. "We brought everything we possibly could to this. It's like a little city when we move in: We have our own chainsaw teams, of course, plus we have our own shower and laundry, we have our own cooking team, we have our own electrical team. We're pretty self-sufficient, and we have to be that way in order to do what we do because when a disaster hits, you never know what you're going to get into." The team, which numbered more than 60 Texans on Mission by the second week, set up its response operations at Temple Baptist Church. Church member Steve Davis, who also has served as a city councilman and mayor of Poplar Bluff, shared his appreciation for the team's response and the removal of five of his own giant trees lost in the storm. "We weren't injured or anything, and our house was not damaged that much either," he said, adding, "and praise the Lord, you guys got up here quickly to help this area, and that's a blessing. You're doing a wonderful job, we're glad to have you here and we thank you, Texans on Mission." Editor's Note: This story was written in the second of an estimated four weeks of response by Texans on Mission (formerly known as Texas Baptist Men). By March 31, TXM volunteers had provided more than 630 volunteer days of work, conducted 59 chainsaw jobs, fed volunteers (1,244) and washed and dried 2,451 loads of laundry. Home News Church mourns after choir member shot dead in home Members of the Collins Grove United Methodist Church in Greensboro, North Carolina, are mourning the loss of a beloved longtime member of their choir who was shot dead inside his home on Monday. The Greensboro Police Department identified the member in a statement as 65-year-old Arthur Lee Gilmore, who was found with a gunshot wound inside his apartment just before midnight on Monday. The Rev. Carl Manuel said he was shocked to hear of the longtime choir members murder because he was a quiet man who knew his way in Gods house. 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 I need everybody to pray for me and the Collins Grove UMC. Greensboro, N.C. family as we learned this morning that Mr. Arthur G. Gilmore was gun[ned] down in his apartment yesterday, Manuel wrote on Facebook Tuesday night. I am still in a state of shock because he stopped by the pastor study on Sunday and told me he was happy to be a member of the church, he recalled. Brother Gilmore was a quiet man who sung in the choirs of the church for years, one who would shout every Sunday thanking God for what He has done [] in his life. He knew his way in Gods house, he added. Its going to be a sad day at Collins Grove UMC Sunday. Wow, I don't even want to go to sleep tonight. When I lose a member of my church its like losing a family member. Audrian Melton, who has been going to Collings Grove UMC for 40 years and was a chairman on the United Methodist Men's group, told WFMY (CBS2) that Gilmore did maintenance work for the city of Greensboro. He remembered him as a hard worker and described his death as gut-wrenching. "It hit home. It wasn't like a stranger; it wasn't like a bystander. It was more. It was gut-wrenching," Melton said. "It was tough and emotional." The Greensboro Police Department has not yet arrested any suspects in the choir members death. Even though he expects Gilmores loss will be felt in the church on Sunday, Manuel believes that the man who knew his way around Gods house is now singing in a better home. "For me, it just tells me ... that Jesus needed another choir member in Heaven, he told WFMY. Home News Kentucky bans taxpayer funding of sex-change surgeries, restrictions on 'conversion therapy' Kentucky now prohibits the use of state and federal tax dollars to fund sex-change procedures after the state's legislature overrode a gubernatorial veto of a ban that also halts restrictions on so-called "conversion therapy." The Republican-controlled Kentucky legislature overrode Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear's gubernatorial veto of House Bill 495 last week. The Republican-controlled Kentucky House of Representatives voted 78-20 to override Beshear's veto, while the Republican-controlled Kentucky Senate voted 31-6 to override the gubernatorial veto. In both chambers, all but one Democrat opposed the veto override, while all other votes to make the measure law over Beshear's opposition came from Republicans. 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 House Bill 495 prohibits the Department for Medicaid Services and any managed care contractors from spending Medicaid funds on "cross-sex hormones in amounts greater than would normally be produced endogenously in a healthy person of the same age and sex" and "Gender reassignment surgery to alter or remove physical or anatomical characteristics or features that are typical for and characteristic of a person's biological sex." The measure declares that an executive order signed by Beshear on Sept. 18, Executive Order 2024-632, "shall be of no force or effect as of the effective date of this Act." Beshear is prohibited from issuing a new executive order designed to achieve the same purpose for the remainder of his term in office. The executive order in question prohibits the use of state and federal tax dollars to fund so-called "conversion therapy," also known as sexual orientation change efforts. The order defines conversion therapy as "any practice, treatment, or intervention that seeks or purports to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, including efforts to change behaviors or gender expressions or to eliminate or reduce sexual or romantic attractions or feelings toward individuals of the same gender." Beshear's executive order authorized any state agency that discovers mental health providers engaged in such activity to refer them to the appropriate state licensing board for disciplinary action. The legislature's votes to override Beshear's veto came five days after he detailed his opposition to the measure in a veto message. "Conversion therapy has no basis in medicine or science and causes significant long-term damage to our kids, including increased rates of suicide, anxiety, and depression," he wrote. "Not only is House Bill 495 an unconstitutional infringement of the executive branch's authority under the law, but it promotes a dangerous and discriminatory practice that has led to the deaths of Kentucky children," Beshear added. "As leaders and policymakers, we should be in the business of protecting our citizens and kids from harm, not subjecting them to discredited methods that jeopardize their health, wellbeing, and safety." Liberty Counsel, a legal organization that has represented several mental health professionals who have faced repercussions for engaging in what critics deride as "conversion therapy," released a statement Wednesday saying the veto override will protect "religious liberty, free speech, as well as licensed counselors and their minor clients needing their help." "Governor Andy Beshear had no business inserting himself between a client and counselor," Liberty Counsel Chairman and Founder Mat Staver said. "Counselors and their clients should have the freedom to choose the counsel of their choice." In other states, similar bans have been challenged by Christian counselors who say it infringes on the rights of patients seeking help with unwanted same-sex attractions. Kentucky is now one of 10 states that prohibit the use of Medicaid funds to pay for so-called gender transition procedures and drugs. The others are Arizona, Florida, Idaho, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. Kentucky already bans the provision of such surgeries and hormone drugs to trans-identified youth. Efforts to prohibit the performance of such procedures and taxpayer funding of them stem from concerns about their long-term impacts. The American College of Pediatricians warns that cross-sex hormones can put youth at "an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, blood clots and cancers across their lifespan." Home News Salvation Army knowingly hired camp director accused of abusing minors, removed him from registry: lawsuit A woman has filed a lawsuit against The Salvation Army, accusing the Christian denomination of knowingly hiring a camp music director who sexually abused her when she was a teenager. Riley Neville filed a complaint against the Salvation Army, its Southern Territory and its Kentucky and Tennessee Division last week in the Commonwealth of Kentucky Jefferson Circuit Court. The lawsuit claims the Southern Territory hired a man named Joel Collier around 2015, knowing that the Eastern Territory had allegedly fired him for sending sexually harassing text messages to a female minor. 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 In his position as a musical director, Collier allegedly sent numerous sexually abusive text messages to Neville while she was a minor teenager beginning in 2017 and later physically abused her at a camp. This included fondling her while she was still a minor and later sexually assaulting her after she turned 18, allegedly performing such acts in multiple locations in Kentucky and Tennessee. "In August 2021, after reporting Collier's sexual abuse to the Salvation Army, Riley's parents learned for the first time that Defendant Southern Territory had known about Collier's sexually graphic texts with the minor female at the camp in the Eastern Territory, that Defendant Southern Territory had removed Collier's name from the Eastern Territory's registry, and that they had hired him and placed him in positions of authority over children, despite knowing that he was a danger to them," stated the complaint. "Defendants are liable for the sexual abuse of Plaintiff that occurred and continued because of Defendants' negligence and complete disregard for the safety of Plaintiff who had been entrusted into their care," the suit adds. "Defendants were on actual and/or constructive notice that Collier was a sexual offender because of his prior placement on the Territorial Registry and his original rejection due to information conveyed to Defendant Southern Territory by the Eastern Territory." Collier's earlier applications for employment with the Salvation Army Central and Western territories were rejected based on his past conduct with female minors, the court filing stresses. The Christian Post reached out to The Salvation Army Southern Territory for this story. The regional body did not return comment by press time. "They're an organization whose fundamentals are caring for and serving the most vulnerable populations," said Neville in an interview with NBC News last week. "They can't knowingly hire pedophiles and not be held accountable." Collier, who presently lives in the United Kingdom and no longer works for the Salvation Army, was not named as a defendant in the complaint. In an email sent to NBC News, Collier stated that he had not read the allegations leveled by Neville, but that "I hope we're able to find a swift resolution to them." USCIS Updates Policy On Gender, Kentucky Bans Tax-Funded Gender Transitions, Chrissy Metz Discusses Faith In New Book link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 08:07 08:07 Sponsored by WatersEdge: Invest with purpose? With WatersEdge Kingdom Investments, you can! We offer great rates that multiply your resources and build churches. Learn more at: https://bit.ly/3CxWtFz Top headlines for Friday, April 4, 2025 In this episode, we examine the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services' new policy manual reflecting the acknowledgment of only two biological sexes, exploring its implications. We then turn to Kentucky, where a new law has been enacted prohibiting the use of state and federal funds for gender transition procedures, following a legislative decision to override the governor's veto. Plus, we are joined by This is Us star Chrissy Metz, who shares insights from her heartfelt new book, When I Talk to God, I Talk about Feelings. 00:11 USCIS updates policy manual to clarify there are only 2 sexes 01:13 Pro-LGBT group calls Education Dept. cuts 'Christian nationalism' 02:02 Oklahoma Education Dept. sues atheist group over school prayer 03:04 Sponsor Message WatersEdge 04:01 Kentucky bans taxpayer funding of sex-change surgeries 04:53 Man to plead guilty to trying to assassinate Brett Kavanaugh 05:36 Karoline Leavitt claims there's 'spiritual warfare' around Trump 06:22 Chrissy Metz talks navigating faith in Hollywood, new book ?Follow Us on Social Media ?Get the Edifi App ?Subscribe to Our Newsletter ?Links to the News Home News Manipulated by predators, sold for sex: 12 survivors of online sexual exploitation denied justice Editor's Note: This article contains descriptions of sexual abuse and exploitation that some readers may find disturbing. Instead of focusing solely on the Big Tech companies and entities that have enabled sexual exploitation in its annual Dirty Dozen List, the nonpartisan National Center on Sexual Exploitation has taken a new approach to its flagship report in 2025. NCOSE unveiled its 2025 "Dirty Dozen List" Thursday, dedicating the entire publication to sharing the stories of rape and abuse survivors denied justice thanks to a "legal loophole" in federal 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 These legal cases, the group says, highlight how Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act allows online platforms to avoid accountability in most cases based on content posted by users. NCOSE believes the only solution is for Congress to repeal Section 230. In past years, NCOSE's "Dirty Dozen List" listed 12 companies, entities or laws that the nonprofit argues facilitate sexual exploitation. The list has included companies such as Apple, Roblox and LinkedIn. "Our 2025 Dirty Dozen List was re-imagined this year to highlight 12 survivors who have been prevented from receiving justice for the crimes perpetrated on them because Section 230 exists," Haley McNamara, senior vice president of strategic initiatives and programs at NCOSE, said in a Thursday press briefing. "Some of these survivors were contacted by predators over tech platforms; some were groomed and trafficked online; some had their child sexual abuse posted online," she added, noting that "sexual abuse is rising exponentially." She called Section 230 "the greatest enabler of online sexual exploitation." The following pages share the stories of 12 exploitation survivors on NCOSE's 2025 Dirty Dozen List. Home News Episcopal bishop denounces arrest of Turkish doctoral student accused of supporting Hamas A bishop of The Episcopal Church has denounced the arrest and detention of a 30-year-old Turkish Muslim doctoral student federal officials accuse of supporting Hamas. Rumeysa Ozturk, a student at the Massachusetts-based Tufts University, was arrested on March 25 by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after leaving her off-campus apartment in Somerville to attend an iftar dinner. Authorities have alleged that Ozturk, who was transferred to a detention center in Louisiana, violated her student visa by actively supporting Hamas, the militant organization that has controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007 and is recognized by the U.S. government as a foreign terror group. 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 However, the Rt. Rev. Julia E. Whitworth, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, decried the arrest in a statement Tuesday. "Our Christian faith calls us to renounce the promotion of xenophobia and fear to foment dehumanization of any of God's children, especially immigrants and our newest neighbors," stated Whitworth. "Throughout the congregations of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, we are committed to radical welcome, care, and support of our most vulnerable neighbors and to collaboration with our ecumenical, interfaith, and secular partners for immigration justice." Whitworth contends it's "critical that our community stand with Tufts University and those in higher education who seek to keep their international students safe and to guard the exchange of free speech and diverse viewpoints." "I urge our congregations and all people of faith to join me in praying for Ms. Ozturk and all who fear arrest and deportation on account of their nationality, ethnicity, religion, immigration status, or political views," she added. "I call upon every follower of Jesus, each community that gathers in his name, and all people of goodwill to do their part to love their neighbors, to respect the dignity of every human being, and to promote sanctuary, peace, and protection for all of God's beloved children." Advocates believe Ozturk's arrest stemmed from an opinion column in The Tufts Daily she co-authored with three other students calling for the university to "acknowledge the Palestinian genocide" and divest from companies with any ties to Israel. A federal judge ruled this week that the student can't be deported "until further order" from the court. The government maintains she was taken to an ICE detention center in Louisiana before a court ruling ordering her to remain in Massachusetts. Her lawyers say her detention violates free speech and due process rights and have requested her return to the state. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security told The Associated Press that investigations into Ozturk had indicated that she had "engaged in activities in support of Hamas." DHS did not disclose specifics of this support. Tufts University released a declaration of support for Ozturk on Wednesday, stating that the "opinion piece was not in violation of any Tufts policies." "For the record, a search of The Tufts Daily will reveal op-eds on multiple sides of the issue with opinions that were shared just as strongly as the op-ed Ms. Ozturk co-authored," stated the university. "The University has no further information suggesting that she has acted in a manner that would constitute a violation of the University's understanding of the Immigration and Naturalization Act." According to Tufts leadership, many international students and staff "report being fearful of leaving their homes, even to attend and teach classes on campus." After a series of pro-Palestinian encampments and rallies on college campuses nationwide in response to the conflict between Hamas and Israel in Gaza that began in October 2023, several students have had their visas revoked since President Donald Trump took office in January. Friends say that Ozturk wasn't heavily involved in Tufts University protests, AP notes. Among cases that have generated much media attention is the March 8 detention of Columbia University activist Mahmoud Khalil, the lead negotiator for the on-campus anti-Israel demonstrations and encampments, which resulted in activists taking over a building on campus and allegations of harassment against Jewish students. The conflict in Gaza began after Hamas militants invaded southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people, most of whom were civilians, and took around 250 hostages. Israel responded with a military offensive seeking to eliminate Hamas. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry claims around 50,000 have been killed in Gaza since the war began. The Trump administration has made a concerted effort to combat antisemitism on public university campuses, which reportedly surged since the start of the Israeli-Hamas war in 2023. Last month, for example, Trump threatened to strip the federal funding of any public university that allowed for unlawful anti-Israel protests and encampments. "All Federal Funding will STOP for any College, School, or University that allows illegal protests," Trump posted to his TruthSocial page a week after anti-Israel protesters at Barnard College, an affiliate of Columbia University, attacked a campus building and injured a university employee. "Agitators will be imprisoned/or permanently sent back to the country from which they came. American students will be permanently expelled or, depending on the crime, arrested. NO MASKS!" Home News Masked gunmen rape Christian woman, tie husband to tree in religiously-motivated attack 'Both of us ... cried our hearts out, our minds numbed by the trauma and unable to think anything' LAHORE, Pakistan Masked gunmen robbed a Christian man and then tied him up and gang-rape his wife after learning the couples faith, sources said. Adnan Masih, a 34-year-old brick kiln worker in Faisalabad Districts Chak 62-GB Channan village, and his wife were headed home on a motorcycle on the night of March 25 when two masked gunmen stopped them, he said. They snatched my cell phone and some money at gunpoint and then started threatening me to give them more money, Masih told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. When I told them that I was a poor Christian and an ordinary worker at a brick kiln, they started whispering something into each others ears. 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 One of them then made a phone call, and a third man soon arrived on a motorcycle, he said. One of them grabbed my wifes arm and pulled her into a nearby sugarcane field while the other two men loosened the string of my shalwar [baggy pants] and used it to tie me to a tree, Masih said. They then followed their accomplice into the field and took turns raping my wife. His cries for help went unheard, and after the assault the men left the scene hurling threats, he said. I do not have the words that can express the helplessness and agony I felt during that time, Masih said. After some time, my wife emerged from the field, her clothes torn and tears flowing down her face. She could barely walk due to the assault, but she slowly approached me and untied my hands. Both of us then just sat there together and cried our hearts out, our minds numbed by the trauma and unable to think anything. The assailants had damaged his motorcycle, so the couple had to walk the rest of the way home with it. When they finally arrived, their three children and other relatives were waiting for them in the courtyard. We did not have the courage to tell them what had happened to us, so we just kept silent and went to our room, Masih said, adding that they passed the rest of the night thinking about the effect news of the incident would have on their family. We then decided to pray and seek justice from God, which helped in comforting us and gave us hope, said Masih. The next morning, he called the police helpline about the crime. The police registered the case but took action only after the news broke out on national electronic media the next day, he said. Within a day, the police traced and arrested all three accused, as the Punjab chief minister had taken notice of the incident and ordered immediate action. The chief minister also sent the provincial police chief to our home, who promised us that the accused would be dealt with sternly. Masih expressed gratitude for a Christian lawmaker in the Punjab Assembly, Ejaz Augustine, who played a key role in drawing the chief ministers attention to the crime and monitoring police action. Augustine, who previously served as the provincial minister for human rights and minorities affairs, said he regretted that such crimes continue in spite of stiff punishments in Pakistani law, which call for either the death penalty or prison terms of between 10 and 25 years for rape. Minority women are particularly vulnerable to sexual violence as the perpetrators think of them as easy targets, Augustine told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. Moreover, a majority of Christians living in Punjab are very poor and face several barriers in accessing justice. I hope that [Punjab Province] Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will continue to ensure timely action against such criminals as well as provide complete justice to the affected families. Pakistan, whose population is 96% Muslim, ranked eighth on Open Doors 2025 World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian. This article was originally published at Christian Daily InternationalMorning Star News Home News US Naval Academy removes nearly 400 library books in DEI purge The U.S. Naval Academy removed nearly 400 books that promote diversity, equity and inclusion from its library to comply with President Donald Trump's efforts to eliminate DEI in federal agencies and schools. In a statement to The Christian Post, a spokesperson for the Navy said the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, removed nearly 400 books from the Nimitz Library "to ensure compliance with all directives outlined in Executive Orders issued by the President." "Nimitz Library houses roughly 590,000 print books, 322 databases, and over 5,000 print journals and magazines to support the academic inquiries and intellectual development of Midshipmen," the spokesperson 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 Naval Academy's mission is to develop Midshipmen morally, mentally and physically in order to cultivate honorable leaders, create a culture of excellence, and prepare them for careers of service to our country." Academy officials received the instruction late last week to review the library. The initial search identified around 900 books before the school selected nearly 400 to remove, as The Associated Press reported. The removal took place before a visit from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, a visit that officials said was already planned and unconnected to the purge, according to AP. A list of the books removed from the library has yet to be made available. The U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York, and the Air Force and Naval academies conducted curriculum reviews. West Point is prepared to review its library content if instructed by the Army to do so, the news wire noted. While it remains unclear whether Hegseth or a member of his staff instructed the Naval Academy to review its library, AP reported there has been some confusion about how to interpret the Trump administration's DEI policies. Before Hegseth's arrival, Naval Academy personnel mistakenly removed several photos of distinguished female Jewish graduates from a display case, according to AP. The photos have since been returned, with academy leadership confirming in a statement that it was aware of the situation and had taken steps to correct it. Following his return to office in January, Trump and his administration have taken steps to end DEI programs, which the government argues are "illegal" and "discriminatory." Earlier this year, Trump signed an executive order titled "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity." The order asserted that DEI policies "violate the text and spirit of our longstanding Federal civil-rights laws, calling for an end to the use of affirmative action in hiring and admissions practices. On Jan. 27, Trump signed another executive order that sought to end race-based and sex-based discrimination within the U.S. Armed Forces. The president declared in the order that "every element of the Armed Forces should operate free from any preference based on race or sex." In response to the executive order, the U.S. Naval Academy changed its policy to no longer consider an individual's race, ethnicity or sex as a factor for admission. Vice Admiral Yvette Davids, the superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, made the policy change in February, according to court documents. The superintendent's decision followed a December ruling from a federal judge that the Naval Academy could continue its race-conscious admissions policy. The judge rejected a challenge from Students for Fair Admissions, which had brought the case against the Naval Academy's policy. "Students for Fair Admissions welcomes the announcement that the U.S. Naval Academy will end its unfair and illegal race-based admissions policies. Racial discrimination is wrong and racial classifications have no place at our nation's military academies," Edward Blum, president of Students for Fair Admissions, said about the decision. Due to the academy's policy change, the Department of Justice asked the court to pause the case as both parties considered the new policy. In 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that it's unconstitutional for the University of North Carolina and Harvard University to use race as a factor in student admissions. Home News VA rescinds punishment for chaplain, affirms sermons can be explicitly Christian The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has confirmed that chaplains can preach sermons with obviously Christian content at affiliated medical facilities and has rescinded a letter of reprimand after a chaplain was punished last year. In a letter written in late February but recently made public, VA Secretary Doug Collins said "there is no national or local policy or standard operating procedure which inhibits Chaplain sermons." "To the extent that there have been any proposed changes to any existing policy, those proposals will not move forward and have been rescinded," wrote Collins. 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 "VA reiterates again its commitment to upholding and enforcing the constitutional and statutory protections afforded to Chaplains when providing spiritual guidance in the performance of their duties and responsibilities." Collins, a military chaplain in his own right, is a former Baptist pastor and member of Congress appointed to the position by President Donald Trump. He vowed that the "VA will take all steps necessary to avoid any future inconsistent actions," and it is his "hope that these measures adequately resolve this matter." The letter was sent to Hiram Sasser of the First Liberty Institute, a conservative legal organization representing Russell Trubey, a chaplain punished for delivering a Christian sermon at the Coatesville VA Medical Center in Pennsylvania. According to FLI, Trubey delivered a sermon at a worship service held at the Coatesville facility in June 2024 that was centered on the New Testament book of Romans. After the service, a VA police officer claimed that complaints were made about his sermon. Trubey was later removed from duties and threatened with a report on his permanent record. Although the proposed punishment was rescinded, Trubey's supervisor tried implementing a sermon review process and limiting the topics on which VA chaplains could preach. On Feb. 11, FLI sent a letter to the VA Department regarding the situation, with Collins writing his response clarifying that there were no speech restrictions for VA chaplains. "With respect to the Letter of Reprimand issued to Chaplain Trubey on November 21, 2024, the determination to release that document to Chaplain Trubey was made in error and was rescinded once staff were counseled regarding the complexities of the applicable laws," Collins wrote. In a statement released Thursday, FLI Associate Counsel Erin Smith said that she was "thrilled" by the response from the department, seeing it as a victory for religious freedom. "Secretary Collins made it clear that the government has no business censoring anyone's sermon, including military chaplains," stated Smith. "We are thrilled that Chaplain Trubey and his colleagues will no longer face the possibility of censorship or punishment for simply speaking according to their faith. We thank Secretary Collins for his protection of religious liberty." Home Opinion I have money, but I have no peace. What can I do? Dear Chuck, I have plenty of money but no peace. What is there not to worry about right now? I have generalized stress about the economy, political divisions, cultural influences on my kids, wars, hatred the list is long. How can I escape this spiral of non-stop worrying? 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 Anxious About Everything Dear Anxious About Everything, Thank you for your honesty. There is plenty to worry about through the lens that you are viewing the world. Were witnessing societal unrest (turmoil) from people whose meaning and purpose in life are linked to current events. Pessimism is rampant. Journalists, who get paid by the size of their viewership, are filling the airwaves with doom and gloom, which is creating fear, uncertainty, and anger. If you watch TV, read the news, or listen to podcasts, you will see and hear people who are anxious, devoid of joy, filled with fear, and possibly even paranoid. Their emotions are spilling over into acts of hatred and violence. Grumbling Like the Israelites who were rescued from slavery in Egypt, many within our population are fixated on what they perceive to be their losses. Their grumbling outweighs their gratitude. Now the rabble (disorderly mob) that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, Oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at (Numbers 11:46 ESV, parentheses mine) Seeing through Gods lens Rather than dwelling on Gods miraculous rescue and His abundant provision, they chose to focus on what they missed. Instead of giving thanks for the days gift, they were trapped in discontentment and projecting a future of deprivation. Regardless of the actions of any government, believers must place their hope and dependence on God. Filled with the Spirit of God, we can be strong and courageous, knowing that the Lord our God is with us. Our hope is not in this world but in the world to come. We may be tested and even suffer financially. Or we may prosper! Only God knows the future. Our responsibility is to obediently follow Him and live in such a way that we reflect the source of our hope to the anxious world that has no hope. As the Apostle Paul said, I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me (Philippians 4:11b13 ESV). The writer of Hebrews said, Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, I will never leave you nor forsake you. (13:5 ESV) The implication is that money is temporary, but our relationship with God is eternal. Biblical solutions to fight off anxiety We have so much here to be thankful for. Yet, without an attitude of gratitude, many bring mental suffering upon themselves and others. I conclude that they are: Is it productive to worry about possible financial scenarios? No! Worry is like a rocking chair; you are constantly expending energy but getting nowhere. Instead, follow Gods financial principles and do your part in diligently preparing as He directs. Do not depend on the government for your financial security. Do not place your identity in a job or company. Do not spend more than you make; make necessary sacrifices to get your house in order. Direct any spun-up emotion into productive activities so that you can laugh at the days to come, like it says in Proverbs 31:25b. With your confidence placed fully in the Lord, you can ask Him for wisdom to protect your home and business financially. Take these actions every day Pray: John 15:7. Trust: Proverbs 3:56. Depend on God: Philippians 4:19. Walk by the Spirit: Galatians 5:1626. Suffer well: Romans 5:15. Give thanks: 1 Thessalonians 5:1618. Prepare to defend your hope: 1 Peter 3:1417. Rest your mind God will give each of us problems that money cannot solve, but He will also give us true riches that money cannot buy. We can be anxious about our problems, or we can be joyful about all that we do have, even when we are suffering. You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you (Isaiah 26:3 ESV). Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing(James 1:2-4 ESV). Are you interested in receiving encouraging ministry updates from around the world? Do you want more tools and tips on financial stewardship? Sign up to receive the Crown Newsletter emails by using the form on the homepage at Crown.org. Home Opinion The Terri Schindler Schiavo case: 20 years later As I was reading the newspaper this past week, a headline caused a host of memories to come flooding back into my consciousness, Terri Schiavo's death 20 years ago sparked lingering debate about death and politics. The article noted that this past March 31 marked the 20th anniversary of the death of Terri Schindler Schiavo on March 31, 2005. The Schiavo case, as it came to be known, generated a huge right-to-die controversy that ultimately involved the then-Governor of Florida Jeb Bush, and his brother, then-President George W. Bush. In February 1990, Terri Schiavo, then 26, suffered cardiac arrest, resulting in an oxygen-deprived coma. When Schiavo emerged from her coma several months later, she was in a persistent vegetative state, which required a feeding tube inserted into her stomach to provide hydration and nutrition. 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 However, unlike the overwhelming number of such cases, Terri was able to breathe and perpetuate her heartbeat without a heart-lung machine. For several years, Terris parents, the Schindlers, and Michael Schiavo, Terris husband, supported doctors in trying to bring Terri back to full consciousness. Those efforts proved unsuccessful. By 1998, her husband Michael, her legal guardian, asserting that Terri had previously expressed a desire not to have long-term life support with little prospect of recovery, petitioned to have Terris feeding tube removed. Terris parents, the Schindlers, vehemently disagreed and opposed their son-in-law in court. This resulted in a seven-year state and federal legal battle that ultimately involved the president flying back to Washington to sign legislation that moved the case into the federal court system. Finally, with all legal appeals exhausted, Terri Schindler Schiavos feeding tube was removed on March 18, 2005. Terri died 13 days later from dehydration and malnutrition. The Schiavo case generated a national uproar for several reasons. Beyond the right-to-die debate between pro-life forces and the assisted suicide, death with dignity groups, you had the emotional debate between parents and spousal wishes. The Schindlers, Terris parents and devout Catholics, were adamant that Terri would never have ended her life under such circumstances, thus contravening their son-in-laws assertions. Complicating matters, Michael Schiavo was cohabitating with another woman he introduced as his wife and with whom he had fathered children. (After Terris death, he and this woman were married.) Throngs of parents across the country were outraged that under these circumstances, the courts continued to give spousal rights preference over parental rights. I must confess, as a parent I was outraged that the state and federal courts would not allow parents to feed their child. (The Schindlers had previously offered to assume custody and all responsibilities for Terris care, to which Michael Schiavo refused to assent.) Also complicating the debate was the fact that Terri was able to exist without assisted breathing. Pope John II, encapsulating Roman Catholic moral teaching, had defined the denial of hydration and nutrition (a feeding tube) as euthanasia by other means. I agreed emphatically with John Paul II, as did the overwhelming number of Catholic and non-Catholic pro-life advocates. Two personal stories illustrate the intensity of this debate. I was invited to be a guest on "Meet the Press" to discuss the Terri Schiavo controversy, along with Robert Drinan, a controversial Roman Catholic priest. In our debate, I quoted Pope John Paul IIs position that denial of hydration and nutrition was euthanasia. Drinan said, Well, the Holy Father is wrong. I responded, I knew I could say that. I didnt know you could. The other incident occurred the summer after Terri Schiavos death. I was invited to speak at a Chautauqua event in upstate New York about, among other things, the Sanctity of Human Life from conception to natural death and everywhere in between. During the question-and-answer period, I was asked directly about the Terri Schiavo case. I acknowledged that while I believed in the Sanctity of Marriage and the primacy of spousal rights, it angered me, as a father, that in the Schiavo case, the parents were not granted the right to furnish their daughter food and water. When asked to amplify my answer, I noted Michael Schiavos relationship with another woman with whom he had fathered children. The audience, admittedly overwhelmingly liberal, booed me! I am often disagreed with, but seldom openly booed. I was understandably surprised. I waited until the boos subsided, and then said, May all of you who booed, be blessed with a son-in-law just like Michael Schiavo! There was a stunned silence, followed by a few oohs and aahs. The moderator commented, I think you made your point. Twenty years after the Schiavo case, the right-to-die controversy continues in America and in the West. Several European countries have enacted right-to-die legislation, as has Canada and approximately a dozen American states. Opposition even to voluntary euthanasia remains strong in America and I predict that it will continue to be so for the foreseeable future. As medical science continues to push back the frontiers of death, increasing numbers of Americans are going to have to wrestle with end-of-life issues. It is very important that people create a living will or an advanced medical directive that delineates which extraordinary measures you want, or do not want, to be taken to prolong your life when you are no longer able to express those wishes yourself. As a Christian, I believe one should never take active measures to shorten life. However, I do believe sentient adults should have the right to decide if, at some point, they do not want extreme measures to be taken to lengthen their terminally ill lives. Such decisions should always be made by the individual, not an insurance company or the government (local, state or federal). The "end of life" and "right to die" issues will increase exponentially in the public eye in a relatively short period of time. The reason demography. The baby boomers (people born between 1946-1964) are old, and getting older. The boomers are the largest generation in American history (thus the term boom), 78 million strong, known by demographers as the pig in the python, referencing their outsize numbers compared with other generations. They have caused tidal waves of change at every stage of their lifespan. The oldest boomers will turn 79 this year and the youngest ones will turn 61! Geriatrics is a growth industry. These numbers help explain all the ads for assisted living, walk-in tubs, etc. Faced with unprecedented numbers of elderly citizens, questions of end-of-life care and decision-making will increase exponentially. As individuals, and as a country, we need to engage this issue, make our wishes known, and defend the sanctity of every human life from conception to natural death. Home Opinion Why is nobody talking about the nearly 20,000 abducted Ukrainian children? Russia has abducted more than 19,546 Ukrainian children during its invasion of Ukraine. Some of those children have been forcibly adopted into Russia; others languish in a series of 43 camps spread across Russia and Russian-occupied territory. The majority of those camps are focused on re-education, military training, or both. For us, these stories arent abstractions. In the course of shooting our upcoming documentary A Faith Under Siege: Russias Hidden War on Ukraines Christians, weve met these survivors and victims in person. We interviewed Rostyslav, a Ukrainian orphan boy that escaped from a Russian military camp, where he was kept in solitary confinement. We also met Nadiia, a mother who had a gun held to her head in front of her children while members of the Russian Guard tortured her husband in the next room. With a tip-off from her pastor, the family escaped from Russian-occupied Ukraine just days before her oldest child was set to be taken from them and sent to one of these Russian-controlled indoctrination facilities. Her story is here. Wars rarely spare children, and Russias is no different. In the course of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia has so far killed 669 children and injured 1,854, with an average of 16 additional child casualties added to that tally every week. Child casualty rates have risen as the war drags on because Russia targets residential areas with missiles and Iranian "Shahed" drones, an effort that ramped up after President Donald Trump won the 2024 presidential election. 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 Casualties, including child casualties, occur during war. But the abduction of children is not common and indicates a zeal to destroy a people itself. Hamas, as part of their goal to destroy the State of Israel, abducted 30 children during their October 7, 2023 attack. The worldwide outrage that followed was visceral. The Sun put the faces of each child on their cover. Sadly, the scope and scale of the abduction of Ukrainian children is so much worse, and, while the motivations may be similar, the international outcry has been muted. The Ukrainian government has identified 19,546 children who have been abducted. According to Russian authorities, if you include the number of Ukrainian children taken into Russia accompanied by their parents, that number swells to over 730,000. Thats up to 24,000 times more disastrous than what happened in Israel, while The Sun covered the story, it didnt even make the front page. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made it clear where America stands when it comes to abducted children in a March 15, 2025 speech to G7 leaders: Were sitting around as the world, sort of accepting that its normal and okay for you to go into a place, kidnap babies, kidnap teenagers, kidnap people who have nothing to do with any wars, that are not soldiers its ridiculous, its sick, its disgusting. While Secretary Rubio was referring to Hamas abduction of Israeli children, the administration seems to have taken notice of Russias abduction of Ukrainian children. On March 19, the White House released a statement from President Trumps phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In it, Secretary Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz noted that President Trump asked about the children who had gone missing from Ukraine during the war, including the ones that had been abducted. President Trump promised to work closely with both parties to help make sure those children were returned home. This follows a March 11 Joint Statement on the United States-Ukraine meeting in Saudi Arabia issued by the White House, where Ukraine agreed to a 30-day ceasefire if Russia also agreed to it. In that statement, The delegations discussed the importance of humanitarian relief efforts as part of the peace process, particularly during the above-mentioned ceasefire, including the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children (emphasis added). As the Trump administration rightfully digs in on this issue, it is helpful to understand Russias motivations behind the abductions. There are a few theories on the subject, and they range from merely nefarious to blatantly genocidal. According to Mykola Kubela, founder of Save Ukraine, an organization that has now rescued 612 children from the Russians, Russia is abducting Ukrainian children for two reasons. First, to destroy the Ukrainian identity of an entire generation, and, second, to turn these children into patriotic Russians. In doing so, Russia gains more cannon fodder for its current war against Ukraine, as well as future wars against the West. With Russia losing sometimes 2,000 soldiers per day, the motivation to create future troops makes sense. The U.S. State Departments Trafficking in Persons report notes that Ukrainian boys are used for conscription, as well as forced labor including in forced criminality for drug trafficking and as couriers. Ukrainian girls, meanwhile, are subject to forced labor, forced conscription, and sexual exploitation in Russia-occupied areas, often via kidnapping, torture, and extortion. There is another strategic motivation to explain Putins hunger for abducted children: Russias acute demographic crisis. Russias birth rate has been declining for nearly 25 years, and Putins invasion of Ukraine has drastically exacerbated an overall crisis of hopelessness. In 2023, of the 1.8 million babies conceived in Russia, only 1.2 million were born, while over 460,000 were aborted. Falling birth rates and high abortion rates mean that Russias population could fall by 50% by 2100 which happens to be the same century that the World Russian Peoples Council (a joint venture of the Russian state and the Russian Orthodox Church) has called for a Russian population of 600 million. That number cannot be realistically achieved without abducting children and the conquest of neighbors. Putin is keenly aware of his countrys failing demographics, and likely picked 2022 to invade because if he didnt do so soon, he would lose the capacity to invade at all. Indeed, it appears that the abduction of Ukrainian children may not just be a feature of Putins war it might be a primary motivation. This is where the administrations insistence on the return of Ukraines abducted children is so brilliant, as it creates a scenario where U.S. values can come to bear in a way that helps a favorable outcome in either of two possible outcomes. First, if Putin truly desires peace, returning the abducted children would buy an immense amount of goodwill. It costs him nothing other than the minor administrative costs of return, and would clearly demonstrate his commitment to repairing relations with his neighbor and the world. Alternatively, if Putin declines to return the children, it reveals his invasion of Ukraine was not just a territorial seizure, but also a desperate effort to bolster Russias declining population and a ruthless bid to erase Ukrainian identity. That kind of motivation does not lead to peace its a motivation that only dies with defeat. If Putin refuses to return the children, he would clearly show the U.S. what his true goals are and give them the resolve and motivation to stop Russia with an increase in force. President Ronald Reagan famously said [a]n America that is militarily and economically strong is not enough. The world must see an America that is morally strong with a creed and a vision. This is what has led us to dare and achieve. For us, values count. This administration has made it clear that it, like America itself, values the return of the abducted children of our allies. Sticking to those values will result in the greatest possible number of children being returned, either immediately by Putin as a willing partner in peace, or over time as a clear global foe is brought to its knees by the strength of American values put into action. Abonati-va sa primiti pe email saptamanal lista articolelor adaugate pe parcursul saptamanii. Adresele .ru nu sunt acceptate. Email NEWSLETTER Lynne Guyton grew up in a council house in Basildon, Essex, where politics was at the forefront of her familys discussions. Her parents and grandparents were very politically motivated, she says, read a newspaper and watched the news twice a day, while her father and grandfather were strong trade unionists. That motivated her to learn more about the system, views and system change and whats possible. She became the first member of her family to go to university, obtaining a bachelor of arts in politics and a masters degree and doctorate in economics. While doing her PhD, she toyed with the idea of staying in academia but decided otherwise as money held heightened significance. I wanted to make sure that I wasnt relying on parents, handouts or anything else, she says. It was important for me to make my own way in the world. I went into financial services, with the goal of making money and making sure that I had financial security. From banking to charity In the late 1990s, Guyton began a career in investment banking, working initially for Deutsche Bank before moving to other organisations including Accenture, Barclays Capital and the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS). As she began to be financially comfortable, she increasingly struggled to balance her long working hours with her young family. She describes the investment banking sector, and financial services more broadly, as a very difficult environment if youre a woman, particularly if youre a woman with children. This combined with the pressures of the 2008 financial crash meant Guyton had reached a point where Id had enough and decided to take a year off to consider her next move. However, Guytons plans changed when her young son inadvertently helped her change the course of her career path. My son said: Mummy, Ive seen something on the back of the Sunday Times. There was a job ad for the chief operating officer at the time of the Kew Foundation. You love Kew, you could do that? I thought: Im not sure about that. But I had a look, went for it and got the role. Guyton remembers being warned by recruiters about the differences between the corporate and charitable sectors, but she disagreed. Youve still got the same legal, human resources and audit things. All of these have to be professional and run exceptionally well, she says. I told them: Yes, culturally, there might be a difference. But technically, I wanted to bring the expertise I had in the commercial sector into the charitable sector, help where I was working and reap the benefit of my work. Not patriarchal relationships In 2017, Guyton was headhunted for her current role as chief executive of John Lyons Charity, which gives grants to benefit children and young people aged up to 25 who live in nine London boroughs. The role immediately appealed to her. Her predecessor, the late Andrew Stebbings, had been with the charity since 1983 and was responsible for its formation in its current guise. Guyton says inheriting a charity from a long-standing CEO meant she had carte blanche to change how it operated. One thing she aimed to grow was its campaigning work on behalf of young people. In the past, John Lyons Charity had been just a grant-giving charity and I wanted to make it more of a campaigning charity standing up on behalf of the grantees we support. In the first few years, I realised wed a wealth of experience because were a place-based funder, but we werent utilising our knowledge for the benefit of our grantees. We werent giving them a platform to say: This is what we need; this is whats wrong; or actually, this is a better way of working. Place-based funding Guyton believes that being a place-based funder means her charity knows its grantees well and can deliver better outcomes for them. For example, the charity visits grantees in person instead of just receiving applications and deciding based on the information provided. We go out and see whats needed. Sometimes, well say: Actually, youre not applying for enough funding. Have you thought about this? Well often try to help with their applications because we want them to succeed. Sometimes, that might take a year until theyve got to the point where theyre ready to submit. And we dont just go out that once. We try to see it as a partnership with our grantees, rather than a patriarchal relationship where were bestowing grants upon them. Were doing it for the benefit of the community. We say: Youre the community organisation, tell us what you need. Weve tried to make grant conditions and reporting less onerous. I say to my trustees: We need to trust our grantees because theyre on the ground and theyre the ones delivering. Irresponsible and short-sighted Accounts for the financial year ending March 2024 show that John Lyons Charity paid grants of 15.9m towards work in areas such as education and learning and emotional wellbeing, an increase of 6% on 2022-23. The accounts say 2023-24 was very much a year of transition from the existing to the new strategy and while weve made difficult choices on where and how to fund, we were determined not to close any funds to new applications. In the last few years, several large and well-known funders have closed applications, changed their priorities or decided to spend down their funds. Guyton calls such decisions a huge mistake, explaining: Those that are spending down, I understand if youve got families who are still alive and want to see the funding spent down in their lifetime. But thats not been the case for a number of the large charities that are spending down. Its irresponsible and short-sighted. For those that are pausing their funding, Im frustrated because its navel-gazing. We havent got the luxury to sit back and think: What should our strategy be now for the next five years while we make all these grantees pause and not apply to us? Weve learned to walk and chew gum at the same time, so why cant other funders do that? In 2023, John Lyons Charity launched a five-year strategy, which sets out changes including increasing the maximum duration for its main grants from three to up to five years and increasing its main grant size from 30,000 to 40,000-50,000 per annum. It was important for Guyton not to close funding while coming up with a new strategy post-Covid-19 as it had never been in more demand. She notes that as other funders close, John Lyons Charity sees a vast increase in applications, often speculative and from outside its area of operation. It shows the desperation, she says. Legal challenge Last September, John Lyons Charity initiated a legal challenge against the previous governments plans for leasehold reforms introduced in November 2023. The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 received royal assent last May. It aims to strengthen leaseholders rights by, for instance, removing the requirement to pay a propertys marriage value an increase in its value to their freeholder when extending a lease. As a freeholder, John Lyons Charity is concerned that the proposed end of marriage value could mean it loses out on millions of pounds in income each year. Guyton explains that her charity owns several properties, with the original John Lyon estate going back nearly 500 years. John Lyon was a farmer who in 1572 was granted a royal charter by Elizabeth I to found Harrow School. Six years later, he provided an endowment in the form of a 48-acre farm in the area now known as Maida Vale to a trust tasked with maintaining two roads between London and Harrow. To this day, John Lyons Charity still owns a lot of the land within St Johns Wood and over time, there have been very fancy, expensive houses built there, Guyton says. Were talking about the ones on Hamilton Terrace which are worth 5-6m plus. We have a mix of houses there. Weve got houses that we own outright, so where we own the land that the property sits on and the property itself. The other parts of the land we own in St Johns Wood are where there are leasehold properties. Thats where we own the land that a property sits on but not the property itself. It means we can charge ground rent. Guyton says the charity does not charge large ground rents but makes money through marriage value, as tenants extend their properties leasehold. She estimates that in the past, this premium has been worth between 6m and 10m a year compared with around 3m now. This compares to the charitys overall income of just under 11m in 2023-24. Guyton argues that her charity should receive an exemption as the Crown Estate, National Trust and Duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall have as it does not make profits and is not a landed estate. We happen to be a charity that historically got land, but use all of that to either plough money into the endowment or our grantmaking. St Johns Wood isnt a poor area. Many of the people living there are non-doms, so if this legislation comes into being, this money will be a transfer of wealth from a London-based charity to many who are non-doms in the UK. Guyton says her charity has been successful in its legal challenge to date, winning both the September preliminary hearing and a formal first hearing in January. However, the final hearing is due to take place in July. At the moment, we have leaseholders on our estate who are holding back. Theyre not extending their leases because theyre deliberately waiting for this legislation to come into force, so were losing money. If this continues, and if we lose, well have to revisit our strategy and grant-giving strategy as a consequence. Left to Right: Sarah Elliott, CEO of NCVO; Danny Sriskandarajah, CEO of New Economics Foundation; Rosamund McCarthy Etherington of Stone King; Julia Cleverdon, chair of National Lottery Community Fund; Matt Hyde, CEO of Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales; Paul Farmer, CEO of Age UK. Charity leaders are operating in the most uncertain and challenging time, with some facing burnout and leaving the sector, an event heard yesterday. Sarah Elliott, chief executive of umbrella body NCVO, said in London that the spring statements devastating welfare reforms had added further pressure in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. This is also on top of charities having to pay increased national insurance contributions from next week and seeing their incomes decline, she told law firm Stone Kings event on leading in uncertain times. Elliott said the pressures had led to leaders being burnt out and eventually leaving the sector, she said, with more junior staff not wanting to step up because they have seen the hectic workload of their CEOs. Danny Sriskandarajah, former chief executive of Oxfam GB and now CEO of New Economics Foundation, said: It certainly feels like the most uncertain and challenging time to be a leader now in the sector. Sriskandarajah said charities were having to compete with each other more for both local contracts and international aid pots, two of the most important sources of income for the sector. Stronger partnerships with other sectors Elliott said at the event that charities have replaced the state in providing services to the public. She said: These days, increasingly, charities are replacing the state in delivering services, and for those in society who are falling through the ever restrictive gaps, charities have become the safety net. Julia Cleverdon, chair of the National Lottery Community Fund, said that as a sector, charities should look into partnerships with the private sector since the government will be restricted in its spending for a long time. Matt Hyde, CEO of the Lloyds Bank Foundation, said the sector needs to leverage people in other sectors. Hyde said: That means were going to have to learn new languages, spend time together in different sectors and listen to each other. Paul Farmer, CEO of Age UK, agreed and said that there is an awful lot of wealth in this country that the sector has not tapped into in the right way. Farmer said: Partly because were not telling our story correctly, but partly because I think there is a new resetting required of what we mean by a genuinely civil society. And a genuinely civil society recognises that we all have a role to play in contributing into that society. Importance of mentoring Farmer told the event that every person who is in a leadership position at a charity should mentor somebody, and this is especially beneficial when done with people outside the sector. That's how you build the long-term bonds of creative relationships between public, private and the voluntary sector, he said. Farmer said there was a need for larger organisations like his to support smaller charities through collaborations and to support the ecosystem of the charity sector. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, The Charity Commission has opened a regulatory compliance case into a charity co-founded by Prince Harry to examine governance concerns. Last week, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho both resigned as patrons of Sentebale , a UK-registered charity they co-founded in 2006, over a row between its former trustees and chair Sophie Chandauka. Both told the Times that they had stepped down in solidary with the former trustees, who resigned themselves after their relationship with Chandauka broke down beyond repair, creating an untenable situation. The commission said that after assessing initial concerns at Sentebale, which supports young people in Lesotho, it informed the charity on 2 April that it had opened a compliance case. It added that it was now in direct contact with parties who have raised concerns to gather evidence and assess the compliance of the charity and trustees past and present with their legal duties. Its investigation will determine whether Sentebales former and current trustees, including Chandauka, have fulfilled their duties and responsibilities under charity law. Sentebale: Process will bring clarity In a statement , Chandauka welcomed the commissions decision to consider the various governance, administration and management matters I first reported in February 2025. For completeness, I should mention that we initiated an internal governance review last year, the findings of which well share with the Charity Commission, she said. We hope that, together, these actions will give the general public, our colleagues, partners, supporters, donors and the communities we serve comfort that Sentebale and its new board of trustees are acting appropriately to demonstrate and ensure good governance and a healthy culture for Sentebale to thrive. Carmel Gaillard, Sentebales executive director, said the charity welcomed the clarity this process will bring. She added: Transparency and accountability are central to how we operate, and the executive team and I are fully committed to supporting the Charity Commissions regulatory compliance case in any way needed. Well also continue to work closely with the chair and the new board of trustees to ensure the smooth running of the organisation, keeping our focus firmly on delivering for the young people and communities we serve. Commenting on the case, Robert Meakin, charity partner at Keystone Law, said: Its a lesson for founders of charities that they should put in place safeguards to protect their vision for the charity that they establish. This could be through membership rights to appoint and remove trustees and membership agreements and funding agreements. People can think theyre all on the same page but often they arent. Meakin said it is crucial to choose the right trustees with the right skills and team ethos, adding that sometimes founders select the right people to start with but then the people chosen thereafter turn out to be the wrong fit. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, Sign up for The Media Today, CJRs daily newsletter. Garrett Shanley is due to graduate from the University of Florida next month, and if your news org is looking for a dynamite reporter, youd better reach out ASAP. You might remember Shanleys blockbuster last August about Ben Sasse, the former senator who served as university president for just seventeen months, and left because he needed to take care of his ailing wife. That was true enough, but as Shanley would discover, Sasses taxpayer-subsidized extravagance during his short tenure was jaw-dropping: he ballooned his offices travel budget to twenty times his predecessors, while hiring his old Senate aides for university jobs that paid around $400,000 and that allowed them to remain in the DC area. That story was tough enough, but this week Shanley had an encore. He dug into the underperformance of the states surgeon general, Joseph Ladapo, whom Gov. Ron DeSantis lured from California by adding a coveted tenured professorship at the UF medical school to the offer. But as Shanley discovered, Dr. Ladapo doesnt do much for the university. He has given a few lectures but hasnt taught an actual course. He has little research to show for his time, focusing mostly on his memoir about what he saw as his pandemic-era heroics. And hes facing multiple integrity complaints for allegedly altering a study about COVID vaccines. Many of the cuts first announced by Elon Musks DOGE crew hit foreign-aid programs or Washington-based bureaucrats. So Trumps base of supporters might have thought theyd be spared. But those initial trims dont get you close to the promised $2 trillion in savings, so DOGE now is slashing costs in red America. That could include as many as thirty-four leases for the Mine Safety and Health Administration, the agency that oversees working conditions and provides assistance to sick minersmany of them in West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Without the federal inspections, coal operations will just run rampant, a former mine prosecutor said in this excellent Pittsburgh Post-Gazette investigation. There wont be any accountability. That could mean there will be more victims like Randall Dickerson, forty-nine: I wake up in the morning, Im coughing my brains out. I have to use an inhaler and an oxygen machine and Im not even 50. In a face-off between a great white shark and a killer whale, whos more likely to win? If youre me, youll pick the shark. But then again, Id never heard of the killer-whale duo known as Port and Starboard who have been prowling the South African coast for at least a decade. As the Washington Posts Jonathan Edwards tells it, it isnt just that the whales win, its what they do in achieving their victories. By the time the whales had finished their attacks, the sharks hearts, stomachs and other major organs were still intactwith one exception. In each case, the liver had been removed. Said one marine biologist: They can handle a white shark and just shuck it like a mussel almostjust tear it open and slide its liver out and consume it and discard the rest. Independent journalist Ken Klippenstein was just bustin with pride over his March 28 story: New Rubio order (leaked to me) directs the State Department to spy on student visa holders and applicants [on] social media, he posted on Bluesky and X. He got the buzz that he wanted with thousands of reposts, and presumably a traffic boost to his $100-a-year site. If you had a sense of deja lu, its probably because youd already read this piece, titled State Dept. demands enhanced social media vetting of student visa applicants, by Marisa Kabas, another independent journalist. Her story ran a full two days before Klippensteins. (And Kabass version was more authoritative and better-written.) I reached out to Klippenstein via email, Signal, and social media, but he didnt respond. Maybe at some point he will (leak his response to me). If you have a suggestion for this column, please send it to laurelsanddarts@cjr.org. We cant acknowledge all submissions, but we will mention you if we use your idea. For more on Laurels and Darts, please click here. Arson is a criminal act, but since the advent of insurance, arson has been used to extort money from insurance companies. Arson for profit schemes grew exponentially in the 1970s, according to the House Committee on Governmental Affairsand as a result, the U.S. Congress began investigating how to address the role of the insurance industry in dealing with arson. Back then, arson was considered to be a $1.6 billion dollar industry. The recommendations that came out of the congressional investigation included a focus on underwriting practices, increasing special investigative units and modifying privacy laws and fair claims practices laws Most of those suggestions have been put into play; however, the impact of arson on the industry remains significant. Insurance fraud is now considered to be the second costliest white-collar crime in America after tax evasion, costing consumers an estimated $308.6 billion each year, National Insurance Crime Bureau figures show. Insurance fraud remains pervasive, and combatting fraud is a challenge for all involved. In Georgia, an insurance company asserting an arson defense must provide evidence that: (1) the fire was of incendiary origin, (2) the insured had the motive to have the fire set and (3) either the insured had the opportunity to have the fire set or unexplained surrounding circumstantial evidence implicates the insured. Essentially, evidence of incendiary origin and motive by themselves are not sufficient to establish an arson defense; there must be in addition some evidence which would link the suspect to the arson. Therefore, key elements for success in an arson fraud case include a prompt and thorough on-site investigation to establish that the fire was the result of an intentional human act, detailed witness interviews and gathering admissible evidence to establish motive and opportunity. Insurers should not rely on the responding firefighters to establish the first element. Instead, once red flags are identified, insurers should retain a qualified and independent origin and cause investigator to conduct a scene inspection and be prepared to testify and present evidence in court of their findings. In addition to prompt witness interviews, continuing a thorough investigation with an examination under oath of the insured(s) is critical because an EUO, unlike a recorded statement, can be useful as impeachment evidence should the matter go to trial. An EUO also provides insurance carriers with earlier and broader access to information than a deposition. One example of the benefits of an EUO is that an insured may not invoke legal privileges, even the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Finally, utilizing the resources of the policys cooperation requirements, insurers should also demand that the insured fully cooperate and produce critical and relevant records and documents. This evidence can then be used to establish that the insured had both the motive and the opportunity to set the fire. Items to collect should include activity records such as phone records and social media posts, financial records showing income and expenditures and documentation to support ownership of the items claimed. If a claim is denied and the insured files suit, pretrial discovery also plays a critical role in uncovering fraud since the determination of whether an insurers decision was made in bad faith depends upon the sufficiency of its evidence in court. Your legal counsel should be seeking legally credible and reliable copies of all documents relied upon for the arson and fraud defense to ensure the records will be admissible in litigation. This includes getting certified copies of those phone records and bank statements secured in the preliminary investigation. It is important to document the claim file thoroughly with as much information as possible but also to understand that certain information may require a subpoena to be obtained from other sources if the claim progresses into litigation. Additionally, and to avoid bad faith and potential extracontractual penalties in the current litigious environment, claims professionals must conduct their investigations while considering regulatory requirements, case law and industry standards, along with the potential legal ramifications of failing to adequately investigate suspicious claims. Most states have an Unfair Claims Practices Act or similar statute that penalizes insurers that unreasonably fail to settle covered claims. It is important to stay up to date on your states laws, both statutory and common law, to ensure you are complying with the processes and time limits set forth by the governing body of your state. Keep in mind that most states require an insurer to satisfy not only the procedural requirements of a states bad-faith statute but also the substantive requirements of the statute. For example, under Georgia law, there can be no finding of bad faith under O.C.G.A. 33-4-6 if it can be said as a matter of law that there was a reasonable defense which vindicates the good faith of the insurer and that the insurer had reasonable and probable cause for making a defense to the claim. Finally, insurance carriers also must consider the potential exposure for failing to investigate claims, whether failing to investigate based upon a cost-benefit analysis or based upon some urgency in processing claims such as in a catastrophe setting. Arson and insurance fraud is a crime in every state. Many states have insurance fraud bureaus or departments that investigate illegal insurance activities (whether by carriers or by policyholders). Several states require insurers to have mandatory fraud plans and to report insurance fraud when discovered. Several states also have immunity laws designed to enable insurance companies to report their fraud without limited risk of criminal or civil prosecution. Investigating arson and fraud is, in many states, an insurers obligation. An insurance company has a responsibility to marshal all facts necessary to make a determination as to coverage before its refusal to pay.' Although certainly not a new problem, arson continues to be an ongoing problem for insurance companies. Diligent claim handling is using all resources that the policy and applicable law provides you while allowing your inherent curiosity to lead you to the proper legal and ethical conclusion. Segel is a partner at the law firm Swift Currie. She represents insurance carriers and businesses in commercial litigation and insurance coverage matters with an emphasis on defending against bad faith and fraudulent claims. Email: melissa.segel@swiftcurrie.com. A U.S. judge said several companies including Walmart, Beech-Nut and Gerber must face a nationwide lawsuit claiming that toxic heavy metals contaminated their baby food, causing brain and neurodevelopmental damage to children who ate it. In a decision on Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley said parents can try to prove that defective manufacturing, negligence and failure to warn about more than 600 baby food products caused their children to suffer autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Parents said some defendants failed to adhere to internal limits about how much arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury in baby food was safe, while others never addressed the issue. Corley said this made it plausible to claim that some baby food was unsafe, if safety criteria were not followed. The San Francisco-based judge also said no ironclad rule required the parents to allege that toxicity crossed a particular threshold. Beech-Nut is owned by Nestle, Gerber is owned by Switzerlands Hero Group, and Walmart sold its baby food under its own name. Other brands in the case include Hain Celestials Earths Best Organics, Danones Happy Baby and Happy Tot, Sun-Maid Growers of Californias Plum Organics and Neptune Wellness Solutions Sprout Organic. Lawyers for the defendant companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Thursday. The companies have said their baby food is safe. They also argued that heavy metals are naturally present in the environment, and parents cannot simply allege that detectable levels of heavy metals make baby food defective. Brent Wisner, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said he was pleased with the decision. Selling baby food with lead and arsenic is simply not OK, and with the courts ruling, we are one step closer to holding these companies accountable for their decades of malfeasance, Wisner said in an email. Parents sued after a 2021 report by a U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee on economic and consumer policy said dangerous levels of heavy metals in some baby food could cause neurological damage. Corley dismissed Campbells, which sold Plum Organics to Sun-Maid in 2021, as a defendant. Amazon.com and its Whole Foods unit have also been sued for selling Hain and Danone baby food. The case is In re: Baby Food Products Liability Litigation, U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, No. 24-md-03101. (Reporting by Stempel in New York; Editing by Bill Berkrot) A Los Angeles, California, couple was sentenced after an investigation reportedly found they underreported more than $21 million in employee payroll and filed several false claims for their delivery companies. John Nemandoust, 70, was sentenced to 60 days in county jail, and Annette Assil, 62, was sentenced to 30 days. The pair were sentenced to 10 years of felony probation and also ordered to pay $2.2 million in restitution for unpaid workers comp insurance premiums. The California Department of Insurance launched an investigation into the three companies the owned by the couple: A-1 Valley Services, Prompt Delivery and Affordable Messenger. Investigators began looking at the companies after receiving information that two of the companies were uninsured. Investigators reportedly found that between 2013 and 2017, the couple only obtained workers comp coverage for Valley Services employees, while leaving Prompt Delivery and Affordable Messenger uninsured. When employees from the uninsured companies sustained work-related injuries, the couple reportedly filed claims under Valley Services policy. Over the four-year period, at least 20 uninsured employees had claims improperly filed under Valley Services policy, according to the CDI. A forensic audit reportedly found that the companies combined gross payroll exceeded $25 million, while they only reported roughly $1.4 million to their insurance carrier. This resulted in $21 million payroll underreporting. This scheme allowed the couple to avoid paying $3 million in workers comp premiums. The Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office prosecuted the case. Oracle Corp. has told customers that a hacker broke into a computer system and stole old client log-in credentials, according to two people familiar with the matter. Its the second cybersecurity breach that the software company has acknowledged to clients in the last month. Oracle staff informed some clients this week that the attacker gained access to usernames, passkeys and encrypted passwords, according to the people, who spoke on condition that they not be identified because theyre not authorized to discuss the matter. Oracle also told them that the FBI and cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike Holdings Inc. are investigating the incident, according to the people, who added that the attacker sought an extortion payment from the company. Oracle told customers that the intrusion is separate from another hack that the company flagged to some health-care customers last month, the people said. An Oracle representative didnt respond to messages seeking comment. The FBI declined to comment, while a CrowdStrike representative referred questions to Oracle. Information about the stolen credentials started coming out last month, when an unidentified person began trying to sell data online that they claimed to have stolen from the Austin, Texas-based companys cloud servers. Following these claims, which were previously reported by Bleeping Computer, Oracle denied that its cloud storage product had been hacked. In a statement to customers, which was seen by Bloomberg News, the company said, There has been no breach of Oracle Cloud. The published credentials are not for the Oracle Cloud. No Oracle Cloud customers experienced a breach or lost any data. This week, Oracle staff acknowledged to some clients that an attacker had gotten into what the company called a legacy environment, according to the people. The company informed customers that the system hasnt been in use for eight years and that the stolen client credentials therefore pose little risk, the people said. A third person familiar with the breach said the stolen data included Oracle customer log-in credentials from as recently as 2024. That person also spoke on condition that they not be identified because theyre not authorized to discuss the matter. Researchers from the cybersecurity company Trustwave Holdings Inc. validated the data posted for sale online as directly extracted from Oracle, according to Karl Sigler, senior security research manager at Trustwave SpiderLabs Threat Intelligence. He described the stolen material as a rich dataset that could be used by hackers to send out phishing emails and potentially take over peoples accounts. Separately, hackers broke into another Oracle computer system and stole patient data in an attempt to extort multiple medical providers in the US, Bloomberg News reported late last month. In March, Oracle alerted some users of its patient records management software that sometime after Jan. 22, hackers accessed company servers and copied patient data to an outside location, according to a notification the software company sent to clients. Top photo: The Oracle offices in Redwood City, California, on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. Photographer: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. British pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline and rival Pfizer have agreed to end a lawsuit that alleged Pfizers respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine Abrysvo violated GSKs patent rights in its competing RSV shot Arexvy, according to a Thursday filing in Delaware federal court. GSK and Pfizer said in the filing that they would dismiss the case with prejudice, which means it cannot be refiled. Spokespeople for the companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment and more information, including whether the case was settled. GSK, Pfizer and Moderna have developed RSV shots approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, with GSKs Arexvy responsible for the majority of U.S. RSV vaccine sales. The respiratory disease typically causes cold-like symptoms, but it is also a leading cause of pneumonia in toddlers and older adults. GSK sued Pfizer in 2023, arguing that the New York-based companys vaccine infringed GSK patents related to antigen technology. GSK said in the lawsuit that Pfizer began working on its RSV program around 2013, at least seven years after GSK began developing its shot. Pfizer denied the allegations and argued GSKs patents were invalid. It convinced a London court to invalidate related U.K. patents owned by GSK in a separate case last year. GSK has also sued Pfizer for patent infringement in the U.S. over technology in Pfizers blockbuster COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty. That case is still ongoing. (Reporting by Blake Brittain in Washington; Editing by David Bario and Sandra Maler) TikTok faces a mountain of litigation over child safety and privacy, a big risk for potential bidders vying to save the popular video app in the U.S. Collectively, an estimated 1,500 pending lawsuits carry billions of dollars in potential exposure over allegations that the platform is fueling a youth mental-health crisis and preying on users sensitive private information for profit. Unresolved lawsuits typically carry over in a corporate takeover to the acquiring company, and the complaints against TikTok would also transfer if its China-based parent, ByteDance Ltd., sells operations for 170 million American subscribers to a U.S. buyer, according to Curtis Milhaupt, a Stanford University law professor. ByteDance is named as a defendant alongside TikTok in the vast majority of the suits. A U.S. buyer might try to negotiate with ByteDance for a guarantee that the Chinese company will cover all costs of resolving the litigation, or factor the risk uncertainty into the sale price, the professor said. Im sure potential buyers are aware of this issue and are trying to figure out how to deal with these potential liabilities, Milhaupt said. TikTok representatives didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Under a law passed by Congress, the video app was facing a nationwide ban starting Jan. 19 after its Chinese parent company failed to divest its US operations to ease national security concerns. But Donald Trump intervened the next day after he was sworn in as president, signing an executive order to delay enforcement of that law and give ByteDance more time to find a buyer. On Wednesday, ahead of the new April 5 deadline to make a deal, Trump met with top officials including Vice President JD Vance, whos heading efforts to orchestrate a sale of the platforms U.S. operations. Last month, the president had said he was negotiating with four potential bidders, without identifying any of them. One proposal being considered by the White House would involve Oracle Corp. and Blackstone Inc. and potentially other investors in a joint venture. Publicly known offers also include one from a group led by billionaire Frank McCourt and Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, another featuring tech entrepreneur Jesse Tinsley and YouTube star MrBeast, and a merger offer by San Francisco-based Perplexity AI. Amazon.com Inc. also has made an offer. For prospective buyers, the biggest litigation threat to TikTok on the data privacy front may be a lawsuit brought last year by the U.S. Justice Department during Joe Bidens administration. The suit alleged the app has allowed millions of children under the age of 13 to create accounts without their parents knowledge or consent and did so even after reaching a 2019 settlement with the Federal Trade Commission related to kids privacy. In the 2019 pact, TikTok agreed to pay $5.7 million to resolve the FTC claims. But this time around, the U.S. is seeking penalties as high as $51,744 per violation per day, which could add up to hundreds of millions of dollars if the government prevails. TikTok has said it disagrees with the privacy claims and that many of them are inaccurate or have been addressed. Its unclear if the Trump administration, which has been reversing some Biden-era enforcement actions and prosecutions, will continue with the case. If it does, a loss for TikTok may mean financial risk for its new owners. Even if the administration drops the case, TikTok faces numerous class-action suits by parents alleging that the company routinely violates the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act. Last year, the company set aside $1 billion to cover future privacy penalties by the European Union after it was hit with a 345 million ($381.2 million) fine by an Irish regulator for misusing childrens data. And the same regulator is expected to issue another fine of more than 500 million later this month for illegally shipping European users data to China, Bloomberg reported. As for child safety, TikTok and three other owners of U.S. social media giants Meta Platforms Inc., Alphabet Inc.s Google and Snap Inc. together face a barrage of suits alleging they are dangerously addictive for youths. Kids and their parents have filed more than 1,000 personal-injury complaints in state and federal courts in California accusing the companies of knowingly hooking users before they reach their teens. Several hundred additional complaints by public school districts across the U.S. claim the platforms have created a public nuisance thats undermining the educational system. TikTok has called the claims inaccurate and is appealing some of the rulings that have allowed the addiction suits to advance. Bloomberg Intelligence has estimated that the social media companies combined exposure from the addiction litigation could reach into the billions of dollars. More than a dozen state attorneys general also have sued TikTok, alleging last year that the company deceived users about its child safety tools and deployed harmful features to keep children on the platform longer to maximize profits. The company has called the claims inaccurate and misleading. A complaint by Utah claims that TikToks live video feature grooms children for sex trafficking. TikTok says the lawsuit ignores proactive measures the company has voluntarily implemented to support community safety and well-being. The company also faces claims by former content moderators who have alleged they were psychologically harmed on the job watching hours of disturbing videos, including displays of bestiality, necrophilia and violence against children. But TikTok was able to avoid a class-action lawsuit on behalf of thousands of workers by moving the complaints into closed-door, one-on-one arbitration proceedings. Top photo: The TikTok logo on a smartphone arranged in the Queens borough of New York, on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. Photographer: Gabby Jones/Bloomberg. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. COLUMBUS, Ohio A woman who was a substitute teacher at a charter school in Columbus offered to pay a student $2,000 to kill her husband, police say. Stephanie Demetrius, 44, of Powell, is charged with one count of felony conspiracy, Franklin County Municipal Court records show. Demetrius is being held in jail. WCMH Channel 4 reports Demetrius is a substitute teacher at Academy for Urban Scholars High School. Court records show Demetrius approached a student on March 26 and offered him the money to kill her husband, WBNS Channel 10 reports. Reports say she gave the student a $250 down payment. She was later recorded in a phone call with the student promising 15 more, reports say. WSYX Channel 6 reports the mother of the student contacted police when she discovered suspicious information on his cellphone. WBNS reports court documents show Demetrius had told the student her husband worked from home and when their children would be gone. Without their help, some of this might not have come to light, Columbus police Sgt. James Fuqua tells WSYX. This was a situation where a parent was able to capture things inside this young persons phone and contact authorities. Court records show Demetrius currently is in the process of getting a divorce from her husband. WCMH reports that court records show has violated a protection order, started a fire in the homes basement, and also attempted to stab and run over her estranged husband. Dave Yost and Republican Ohio lawmakers are posturing over putting death row inmates into the state's death chamber, but it's political charade. They are making noise while knowing Gov. Mike DeWine won't sign death warrants. (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato, File) Its political posturing. Its pointless charade. Its a cynical game being played with a serious issue: executions. Thats the take of the Today in Ohio podcast on big publicity efforts of lawmakers and Attorney General Dave Yost to get drugs for use in executions. Ohio hasnt executed anyone since 2018. Now, both Attorney General Dave Yost and state legislators are suddenly mounting dramatic efforts to secure execution drugs despite knowing full well that not a single death row inmate will be executed under Governor Mike DeWines watch. DeWine has made clear he has a personal animus. The death penalty, it violates his sense of moral fiber as much as abortion does, host Chris Quinn. He is not going to sign a death warrant. This is just not going to happen. What makes the legislative performance so transparent is the timing. With 21 months left in DeWines term, Yost (whos running for governor) and his allies are posturing as tough-on-crime champions while fully aware their efforts wont matter. The podcast discussion exposed the hollowness of a new budget provision that would force prison officials to work with the U.S. Attorney General to secure lethal injection drugs. Its a move that ignores two immovable obstacles: pharmaceutical companies refusal to sell execution drugs to Ohio, and DeWines personal opposition. As Leila Atassi observed: The law still requires lethal injection and the state still cant get the drugs. And so even if prison officials jump through all these hoops, the end result is the same So, its a law that sounds tough but does absolutely nothing. Atassi noted that what makes the political theater particularly cynical is that if these officials were genuinely committed to restarting executions, they could pursue legislative changes to permit alternative execution methods. Instead, theyre staging a fight they know theyll lose. The podcast conversation revealed how DeWines subtle but unmistakable opposition to the death penalty has created a situation where he can publicly cite drug availability as the official problem while privately standing firm on principle. Quinn noted how DeWine often responds to questions about the execution moratorium with that little grin and pride in saying, There hasnt been one during my time. Meanwhile, Yost wrote an op-ed about his days as a prosecutor to justify his death penalty advocacy despite knowing executions are effectively on hold until 2027 at the earliest. The entire spectacle amounts to what Quinn bluntly called playing politics with death lawmakers making empty gestures to appear tough on crime while accomplishing nothing substantive. Listen to the Today in Ohio episode for the full discussion. Note: Artificial intelligence was used to help generate this story from Today in Ohio, a news podcast discussion by cleveland.com editors. Visitors to cleveland.com have asked for more text stories based on website podcast discussions. Listen to full Today in Ohio episodes where Chris Quinn hosts our daily half-hour news podcast, with impact editor Leila Atassi and content director Laura Johnston. Note: Artificial intelligence was used to help generate this story from Today in Ohio, a news podcast discussion by cleveland.com editors. Visitors to cleveland.com have asked for more text stories based on website podcast discussions. Elon Musk, left, receives a chainsaw from Argentina's President Javier Milei as they arrive speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference, CPAC, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, in Oxon Hill, Md. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) AP WASHINGTON, D. C. - U.S. Rep. Shontel Brown wants a pair of inspectors general offices to probe a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffers mishandling of Americans personally identifiable information. On Thursday, the Warrensville Heights Democrat joined with Democrats Susan Del Bene of Washington and Lori Trahan of Massachusetts in a letter asking the Treasury Department and the General Services Administration watchdogs to investigate a DOGE employees unauthorized and potentially illegal sending of a spreadsheet of personally identifiable information from the Treasury Department to GSA, which manages federal real estate. The employee, Marko Elez, emailed a spreadsheet that contained names, transaction types, and amounts of money to two people at GSA, the letter says. The information came from the Treasury Departments payment system, which processes approximately $200 billion in payments each day to Americans, including Social Security benefits, tax refunds and payments to government contractors. The letter quotes a Treasury Department privacy officers declaration that Elez did not obtain prior approval to share the data nor did he bother to encrypt the spreadsheet, a basic practice in information security. Elez resigned from his Treasury Department post after The Wall Street Journal linked him to a deleted social-media account that advocated racism and eugenics, but was rehired to work at the Labor Department and the Department of Health and Human Services. DOGE leader Elon Musk announced his rehiring on social media in response to a post where Vice President JD Vance opined that although he disagrees with some of Elezs statements, I dont think stupid social media activity should ruin a kids life. He will be brought back, Musk replied. To err is human, to forgive divine. The Congress members believe Elez also erred by violating the Privacy Act. They said he did not gain approval or encrypt the spreadsheet despite receiving a briefing on cybersecurity and privacy rules just days before. Under the Privacy Act, which was passed in the wake of the Watergate scandal to protect Americans privacy, federal agencies may not disclose records contained within a system of records to third parties without an individuals prior written consent, subject to certain exceptions, their letter says. With this understanding, Elezs compilation of names, transaction types, and payment amounts into a spreadsheet, even if not entire records from Treasury systems, and subsequent disclosure to GSA officials constitutes a likely violation of the Privacy Act. Their letter said that if the illegal disclosure of personally identifiable information caused harm to individuals, those individuals may have grounds to seek monetary damages from the government. It urged the investigators to find out how many individuals data was compromised, whether they were told of the breach, what recipients of the spreadsheet did with it, what the Treasury Department has done to mitigate future risks, and how it justified giving Elez access to payment systems while his security clearance process was still ongoing. Congress and the public must fully understand the extent to which this Administration has improperly granted access to critical systems and sensitive data, their letter said. Sabrina Eaton writes about the federal government and politics in Washington, D.C., for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer. COLUMBUS, Ohio Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is coming to Northeast Ohio next week to fill what Democrats say is a void left by Republicans who wont face angry constituents. Walz, who ran on Democrat Kamala Harris ticket as a vice-presidential candidate, will hold a peoples town hall in Youngstown on Monday, in a congressional district held by GOP U.S. Rep. Michael Rulli. The next night, hell do another in Lorain in a district held by U.S. Rep. Bob Latta, also a Republican. Ohio Democratic Party spokeswoman Katie Seewer said its an effort to bring attention to members of congress who wont face constituents after a flurry of new tariffs, a scrambled international order, stock market plunges, tens of thousands of federal workers laid off and more in the frantic first months of President Donald Trumps administration. Walz has been visiting Republican congressional districts across the U.S. This is our chance to say, if your member of congress wont show up when youre hurting, Democrats are going to show up, Seewer said. Ohios congressional delegates havent held any in-person town halls, though Reps. Max Miller, Dave Joyce and Mike Carey have held telephonic or virtual events. Both Walz events are alike in theyll occur in counties where Democrats would once, but no longer, thrive. Before 2020, Lorain County voted for all Democratic presidential candidates since Ronald Reagan in 1984. Mahoning County hadnt gone for a Democrat since Richard Nixon in 1972. But Trump won both counties decisively in both 2020 and 2024 (with Walz on the ballot), a showing of eroding Democratic support in the Rust Belt. Rulli has taken on a high profile role for the administration in Congress, introducing legislation to carry out Trumps executive order to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education. The event in Lorain already has reached capacity, but one in Youngstown still had limited tickets available as of Friday afternoon. Alongside the political rallies, Walz will be in Columbus as a keynote speaker at a conference hosted by the Network for Public Education. Jake Zuckerman covers state politics and policy for Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer. Blake Lively's legal team has accused Justin Baldoni of "trying to destroy" the actress. Blake Lively is locked in a legal battle with her former co-star The 37-year-old movie star recently asked a court to dismiss Baldoni's defamation lawsuit, arguing that the actor should be subject to a newly enacted law, known as California Civil Code Section 47.1, that prevents retaliatory lawsuits linked to the public disclosures of sexual harassment. In response, Bryan Freedman - Baldoni's attorney - told Variety: "Ms. Lively and her circle of Hollywood elites cannot prevent my clients from exercising their constitutional right to petition the court to clear their names from her false and harmful claims. "This right protects not only Mr. Baldoni and the Wayfarer parties in this particular case, but all Americans in the future who have false accusations levied against them and seek relief from our justice system. This must stop here, and we will continue to fight against this blatant attempt to block access to the court system and to weaken our nations Constitution to serve those who are in the position of power. Mike Gottlieb and Esra Hudson - Lively's lawyers - has responded to Freedman's statement by arguing that Baldoni and Steve Sarowitz - who co-founded the Wayfarer Studios with the director - are trying to destroy the actress' reputation. In a statement obtained by 'Extra', the lawyers said: "Baldoni, Sarowitz and the rest of the Wayfarer Parties are now arguing that nobody should be protected by the sexual harassment privilege. "Theyre not just saying that it doesnt apply to Ms. Lively theyre saying it's unconstitutional and no woman should ever have these protections. Thats right: Justin Baldoni, the man who has built his brand on supposedly speaking up for victims, believes that the First Amendment rights of victims of sexual assault and harassment to speak out should give way to the rights of perpetrators to sue their victims into oblivion. "These defendants are so hell bent on trying to destroy Blake Lively that they are willing to shred a law designed to protect all victims just to make sure they bury one." Lively and Baldoni are due to appear in court on March 9, 2026. Chris Hemsworth initially felt "very intimidated" to work with Halle Berry in 'Crime 101'. Chris Hemsworth initially felt very intimidated to work with Halle Berry in Crime 101 The 41-year-old actor has admired the 58-year-old actress' work for "many, many years", and he added that she brought a "comfort level", which put him at ease and made him love "every second" of the experience. The 'Thor: Love and Thunder' star told E! News: "I've admired Halle's work for many, many years, and I was, honestly, very intimidated to sit opposite her within the scene and try and not just be in awe of what she was doing. "People bring out - not just the best in you, but also a comfort level where it does feel like it's a place to explore and a place to examine different ideas and try different things. "And that was the experience. I loved every second of it." The 41-year-old actor left a lasting impression on Halle after he "stood up" for her while they were making the action-thriller. She added to the outlet: "This is one of my new favourite people in the whole wide world, truly ... I won't go into it now, but he stood up for me in a moment in our movie, and I instantly knew right then I'm going to follow this guy, be a fan of this guy for the rest of my life because he stood up for a woman. "He stood up for a woman that he didn't have to do that, and he did it." Chris previously admitted that George Miller's 'Mad Max' movie inspired him to seek out a career in Hollywood. He stars in the post-apocalyptic franchise's prequel movie 'Furiosa' and explained how Miller's work and the presence of Mel Gibson in the 1979 original "created the bridge" for Australians to succeed in Hollywood. Speaking in conversation with filmmaker Baz Luhrmann at the Red Sea Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, Chris said: "I remember watching 'Mad Max' and have vivid memories of its messaging and the type of storytelling. "It was a sort of iconic Australian vision, but post-apocalyptic and had this universal appeal. "And then later on getting into acting and the fact that Mel Gibson was in the film as a young actor and created the bridge for a lot of Australians to go to America." Stocks @ Night is a daily newsletter delivered after hours, giving you a first look at tomorrow and last look at today. Sign up for free to receive it directly in your inbox. Here's what CNBC TV's producers were watching as the three major averages suffered their worst day since 2020 , and what's on the radar for the next session. Microsoft Two big executives from the software giant will be on CNBC TV Friday, starting with CEO Satya Nadella in the 2 p.m. hour ET. Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman is on in the 4 p.m. hour. The stock is 20% from the July high. So far in 2025, Microsoft is down 11.5%. MSFT YTD mountain Microsoft shares in 2025 RH The always outspoken CEO Gary Friedman will be on "Mad Money" at 6 p.m. Friday. RH dropped 40% on Thursday. It is now 67% from the December high. Tariffs hit the stock on Thursday, but so did an earnings report that didn't meet investor expectations. More big news at 8:30 a.m. on 'Squawk Box' The March jobs report will be due Friday morning. Here is where we stand on bonds and big bond exchange traded funds. The 10-year Treasury yield is 4.04%. The two-year Treasury is yielding 3.69%. The one-year Treasury bill yield is 3.92%. The six-month T-bill yield is 4.18%. The three-month , two-month and one-month T-bills all yield 4.3%. On the bond ETF side, the iShares 0-5 Year High Yield Corporate Bond (SHYG) has a dividend yield of 7.19%. The iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (HYG) has a dividend yield of 5.94%. The SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF (JNK) has a dividend yield of 6.77%. The Invesco Trust for New York Investment Grade Municipals (VTN) is yielding 7.53%. The Fidelity Corporate Bond ETF (FCOR) is yielding 4.39%. The KraneShares Asia Pacific High Income ETF (KHYB) is yielding 10.3%. HYG 1Y mountain The iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (HYG) in the past 12 months Private equity stock drop CNBC TV's Leslie Picker will keep reporting on this class of stock that's taken a real beating after the Trump administration's tariff announcement Wednesday. Apollo dropped about 13% Thursday. It is off 35% from the December high. Ares fell 15.5% Thursday. The stock is down 35% from the February high. KKR dropped 15% Thursday. It is off 40% from the Jan. 31 high. The U.S. Dollar index It is down nearly 7% since Inauguration Day and down 1.3% since Election Day. CNBC data guru Gina Francolla reports the U.S. Dollar Index hit its lowest level since Oct. 2. Beyond our shores So far this week, the iShares MSCI Mexico ETF (EWW) is up 5.1%. It is off 24% from the April 2024 high. This week, the iShares MSCI Brazil ETF (EWZ) is up 1.4%. It is down 20% from the April 2024 high. The iShares Latin America 40 ETF (ILF) is up 1.2% this week. The fund is off 17% from the 52-week high hit last April. The iShares MSCI Canada ETF (EWC) is flat this week. It's off 6% from the December high. The KraneShares CSI China Internet ETF (KWEB) is down 1.37% this week. Shares are off 12% from the Oct. 7 high. The iShares MSCI China ETF (MCHI) is down 1.65% this week. The fund is down 10% from the Oct. 7 high. The iShares China Large-Cap ETF (FXI) is down 1.7% this week. The fund is off 9% from the March high. Get Your Ticket to Pro LIVE Join us at the New York Stock Exchange! Uncertain markets? Gain an edge with CNBC Pro LIVE , an exclusive, inaugural event at the historic New York Stock Exchange. In today's dynamic financial landscape, access to expert insights is paramount. As a CNBC Pro subscriber, we invite you to join us for our first exclusive, in-person CNBC Pro LIVE event at the iconic NYSE on Thursday, June 12. Join interactive Pro clinics led by our Pros Carter Worth, Dan Niles, and Dan Ives, with a special edition of Pro Talks with Tom Lee. You'll also get the opportunity to network with CNBC experts, talent and other Pro subscribers during an exciting cocktail hour on the legendary trading floor. Tickets are limited! The stock market briefly moved off its lows after President Donald Trump said on social media that he had a "productive call" with the leadership of Vietnam. Trump said Vietnam would be willing to cut its tariffs on American imports to zero if it made a deal with the United States. Vietnam faced one of the highest tariff rates of any country when the president announced sweeping global duties on Wednesday evening. It was one of the big negative surprises. Vietnam was hit with a 46% tariff rate despite reducing levies on U.S. goods earlier this week. This update took some pressure off apparel stocks that shifted manufacturing out of China to Vietnam shares of companies like Nike , Lululemon , Deckers , and Gap all bounced. It was also a hopeful sign that these companies won't have to pass the higher costs onto consumers. This sign that the Trump administration is listening to foreign leaders has us more constructive about the stock market and this manufactured selloff. They seem to be listening to their critics. But, we still need to see how Europe responds, especially after China announced retaliatory tariffs and measures targeting a few U.S. companies. One of those companies being targeted by China is Club name DuPont . The stock got crushed Friday morning after it was reported that China market regulators launched an investigation into DuPont China for alleged violation of antimonopoly laws. This news was devastating to learn because the company gets about 20% of its sales from China and the electronics business which will be spun off later this year is heavily exposed to China and the Asia Pacific region. However, DuPont put out a filing Friday morning that showed the scope of this investigation is tiny. China isn't targeting electronics. The investigation is in connection with its Tyvek business line, which is used for things like protective apparel and health-care packaging. DuPont said 2024 Tyvek sales into China were approximately $90 million, or less than 1% of total company sales. We understand that cyclicals are going to sell off due to the market's concerns about the economy, and China's retaliatory tariffs will have an unknown impact on DuPont's profits, too. But the main driver of the DuPont selloff was over concerns about this investigation, and the truth is that it is minor. DuPont has shed about $2.8 billion in market cap Friday and most of that was due to an issue with $90 million of sales. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long DD. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. watch now Here are the most important news items that investors need to start their trading day: 1. Red wave A Specialist trader works at his post on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York City, U.S., April 3, 2025. Brendan Mcdermid | Reuters 2. 'Going very well' U.S. President Donald Trump reacts before boarding Marine One, while departing the White House en route to Florida, in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 3, 2025. Carlos Barria | Reuters As global equity markets roiled and recession worries spiked Thursday, Trump appeared unbothered by the plunge. He said he thought the reaction to his tariffs was "going very well," and contended stocks and the economy will "boom." It remains to be seen whether the global reaction will force Trump to ease up on the tariffs. He told reporters Thursday that he is open to negotiating the duties with other countries contradicting White House aides who have insisted he will not bend on the levies. The Trump administration, U.S. companies and world leaders will continue reacting to the trade conflict throughout the day. Follow live tariff updates here. 3. Economy on edge The U.S. employment report for March comes at a precarious moment for the economy. Trump's steeper-than-expected tariffs have only added to worries about rising prices and lower consumer confidence. Layoffs in March hit their highest level since the pandemic, driven by Trump and advisor Elon Musk's push to slash federal government payrolls. Though job growth has slowed, it has remained solid through the early months of the year. Economists polled by Dow Jones expect nonfarm payroll growth of 140,000 for March, along with an unchanged unemployment rate of 4.1%. 4. Powell's predicament U.S. President Donald Trump and U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Win McNamee | Annabelle Gordon | Reuters As Trump forges ahead with massive trade barriers, he deals a tricky hand to the Federal Reserve and Chair Jerome Powell. The tariffs threaten to hamstring both of the U.S. central bank's core goals: price stability and full employment. If the Fed would cut interest rates to help the economy, it would risk fueling inflation, which remains elevated despite progress in reining it in. If the central bank would increase rates to mitigate price hikes caused by the duties, it risks stifling economic growth. Trump's new policies have put the Fed in a potential no-win situation. 5. TikTok, on the clock A general view of the offices of TikTok, as the site faces an April 5 deadline to reach a deal to find a non-Chinese buyer under threat of being banned from the United States, in Culver City, California, U.S., April 2, 2025. Daniel Cole | Reuters An employee mounts a VW logo on a new Volkswagen Tiguan at the VW main plant. Picture Alliance | Picture Alliance | Getty Images Auto giants have responded to U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs by announcing plans to raise prices, impose import fees, pause production and even lay off staff. As part of plans designed to shift production to U.S. factories and bolster American jobs, the Trump administration on Thursday introduced 25% tariffs on foreign auto imports. The White House also said it intends to place tariffs on some auto parts no later than May 3. The measures, which were separate to Trump's sweeping new tariffs on major trading partners, have hit the global automotive industry hard. Shares of some of the world's biggest car brands traded sharply lower on Friday, extending steep losses from the previous session. Auto stocks fell deeper into negative territory shortly after China's finance ministry said Beijing intends to impose a 34% tariff on all goods imported from the U.S. starting on April 10. Get the CNBC Daily Open report in your inbox every morning and keep up to date with the markets wherever you are. Subscribe Stellantis , which owns household names including Jeep, Dodge, Fiat, Chrysler and Peugeot, traded 7% lower at 1:30 p.m. London time (8:30 a.m. ET). The Milan-listed stock fell over 8% in the previous session. Germany's Volkswagen , BMW and Mercedes-Benz Group , meanwhile, all traded around 4% lower. How have carmakers responded? Volkswagen, Europe's biggest carmaker, is planning to add import fees to the sticker prices of its vehicles shipped to the U.S. in response to Trump's tariffs. The German auto giant has also reportedly halted all rail shipments of vehicles built in Mexico to the U.S. The measures, which were first reported by trade publication Automotive News, appear to underscore the immediate impact of Trump's tariffs on the company. "We communicate to our dealer body about all aspects of the business, and we want to be very transparent about navigating through this time of uncertainty," a spokesperson for Volkswagen told CNBC via email on Thursday. "We have our dealers' and customers' best interests at heart, and once we have quantified the impact on the business we will share our strategy with our dealers," they added. The Stellantis Windsor Assembly Plant is shown on April 1, 2025 in Windsor, Canada. Bill Pugliano | Getty Images News | Getty Images Stellantis, meanwhile, announced on Thursday it will pause production at two assembly plants in Canada and Mexico. The move means about 900 workers in the U.S. at supporting plants will be temporarily laid off. The actions were seen as representing the most drastic by an automaker regarding the new tariffs. Stellantis' downtime starts Monday and is set for two weeks at the automaker's Windsor Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada, and the entire month of April at its Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico. Stellantis on Friday also joined Ford Motor in offering employee pricing on new vehicles to all U.S. consumers in a way to bolster sales and clear vehicle inventories in the wake of Trump's tariffs and amid economic concerns. Elsewhere, Nissan Motor's luxury Infiniti brand indefinitely paused production of two Mexico-built crossovers for the U.S. in response to the U.S. tariffs. In a memo to the brand's retailers, Infiniti Americas Vice President Tiago Castro said QX50 and QX55 output for the U.S. is halted "until further notice" due to the tariffs, Automotive News reported Thursday. A company spokesman confirmed the actions to CNBC on Thursday and said the Japanese automaker is reviewing its "production and supply chain operations to identify optimal solutions for efficiency and sustainability." Boost to U.S. production An escalating global trade war is expected to have a profound impact on the car industry, particularly given the high globalization of supply chains and the heavy reliance on manufacturing operations across North America and particularly Mexico. Sweden's Volvo Cars reportedly said Thursday it intends to produce more cars in the U.S. and ramp up its regionalization efforts with hubs in China and Europe. watch now One type of good boss really sticks out from the rest, says real estate entrepreneur Barbara Corcoran: someone who prioritizes their employees' success just as much as their own. Great bosses understand the "cardinal rule" that "I work for you, you don't work for me," Corcoran said in a TikTok video posted in March. She's practiced that philosophy ever since she launched real estate firm The Corcoran Group in 1973, she said. "That's [been] my attitude my entire life. What can I do for you? How can I make your job easier? What do you like to do? What would you rather do? " said Corcoran, 76, who ran her firm for almost 30 years before selling it for $66 million in 2001. Her outlook might sound counterintuitive: Employees do, in fact, work for their bosses. Rather, Corcoran's suggestion is more in line with the idea of "servant leadership," where leaders try to set their team up for success just as much as themselves. DON'T MISS: How to change careers and be happier at work Servant leaders typically believe that an environment where all employees can thrive ultimately benefits the entire organization. "You'd say, 'Well, that doesn't put the boss ahead,'" said Corcoran. "It does. Because as they get stronger and go up the rank, they carry me for a free ride ... That's how it goes." Bosses with a servant leadership mindset are a major "green flag," according to Deepali Vyas, the global head of fintech, payments and crypto practice at Korn Ferry. "Managers that master the balance of emotional intelligence and not being so rigid that's a good boss," Vyas told CNBC Make It in October. You can tell if a leader possesses these soft skills by asking a simple question, she added: "How would your current team describe you and your leadership style?" A good boss' answer probably includes hallmarks of traits like selflessness, empathy or flexibility. Maybe they set time aside each week to teach an employee a new skill, despite their jam-packed calendar. Or they covered the cost of an employee's new certification, and helped them move their schedule around to study. Just be wary of a boss who struggles to effectively establish authority or meet business goals: "I've seen well-meaning servant leaders fail to spend as much time and energy on planning and executing to achieve company goals as helping individuals achieve theirs," leadership expert and ex-Procter & Gamble executive Scott Mautz wrote in a 2021 blog post. The best leader is usually one who "empowers you to grow" professionally, Vyas said. That kind of attitude inspires employees to go above and beyond at work, and always put forth their full effort, Corcoran noted. "The key to being a big boss, a growing boss and a great boss is really understanding you work for who's working for you," she said. "It's as simple as that." Disclosure: CNBC owns the exclusive off-network cable rights to "Shark Tank," which features Barbara Corcoran as a panelist. Do you want a new career that's higher-paying, more flexible or fulfilling? Take CNBC's new online course How to Change Careers and Be Happier at Work. Expert instructors will teach you strategies to network successfully, revamp your resume and confidently transition into your dream career. Pre-register today and use coupon code EARLYBIRD for an introductory discount of 30% off $67 (+taxes and fees) through May 13, 2025. In this article JD.-GB AAPL US10Y .RUT .IXIC .DJI .SPX .N225 .AXJO Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT U.S. President Donald Trump holds "The Trump Card" as he speaks with journalists on board Air Force One en route to Miami, Florida, on April 3, 2025. Kent Nishimura | Reuters Taken from CNBCs Daily Open, our international markets newsletter Subscribe today U.S. President Donald Trump's so-called liberation day for the country came and went. What, exactly, did his trade plans liberate the world's largest economy from? Leadership of the global economic and financial system? King dollar's seat on the throne? Cordial relations with trading partners and political allies? Of course, that's all speculation. The tariffs, apart from the 25% duty on autos, have yet to kick in. Trump's universal 10% tariffs will take effect April 5, while the ostensibly "reciprocal" tariff rate calculated using an unconventional, to put it mildly, formula based on trade deficit in goods will be live April 9. Despite the horror expressed by economists, market strategists and (privately) CEOs, Trump might indeed be right that the U.S. economy and, more specifically, its manufacturing industry, could be revitalized after a period of pain. "The markets are going to boom. The stock is going to boom. The country is going to boom," he said at the White House. But for now, the only (unwilling) subjects of Trump's "liberation" were investors, who were freed from the oppressive weight of their stock returns. Investors then fled to the safety of bonds, before more "booms" shake the market. What you need to know today And finally... Shipping containers at the Yangshan Port outside Shanghai, China, on Feb. 7, 2025. Go Nakamura | Reuters China's response to new U.S. tariffs will likely focus more on stimulus, building trade ties Hours after U.S. President Donald Trump announced additional 34% tariffs on China, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce called on the U.S. to cancel the tariffs, and vowed unspecified countermeasures. But, as has been the case, the closing line of the Chinese statement was a call to negotiate. "I think the focus of China's response in the near term won't be retaliatory tariffs or such measures," said Bruce Pang, adjunct associate professor at CUHK Business School. That's according to a CNBC translation of the Chinese-language statement. Instead, Pang expects China to focus on improving its own economy by diversifying export destinations and products, as well as doubling down on its priority of boosting domestic consumption. CNBC's Jim Cramer on Friday blasted the White House for its approach to trade policy , arguing that it threatens to further slam stocks. "It should not be in our country's interest to have the market crash," Cramer said on "Squawk on the Street," as U.S. stocks were coming under heavy selling pressure in premarket trading. The S & P 500 tumbled 3% shortly after Friday's opening bell, building on its 4.8% plunge in Thursday's session. "I struggle for what the president's game plan is because if you wanted to make the market crash, I think you would go with this game plan," Cramer said Friday. "I don't like that game plan. I do not favor that ... It's very disappointing." Cramer's comments Friday came shortly after China announced retaliatory levies on U.S. imports, ratcheting up global trade tensions in the wake of President Donald Trump's sweeping, steeper-than-expected tariff announcement late Wednesday. To be sure, he said he's not advocating investors get out of the market "I'm going to hold. We've sold enough stuff for my Charitable Trust," the portfolio used by the Investing Club. "But I can't bottom fish. I don't want to sleep with the fishes," he said. Cramer, who runs the CNBC Investing Club, added later, "They have to be careful because I can't think of a single reason in the world to buy a stock." "I respect our viewers' 401(k) and [individual retirement accounts], and I don't want them to be hurt for no reason because that's their bedrock and we don't want them to stop [investing]," Cramer said. "The stock market is the greatest wealth creator of all time, but when you take it down the way it's been insensitively handled, instead of sensitively handled, then you're going to make people not do the right thing by their families." In a social media post Friday after China's retaliation, Trump vowed that his policies would "never change," adding to the uncertainty about where trade policy goes from here. On Thursday, Reuters reported that Trump said on Air Force Once he would be open to negotiations with trading partners if they made "phenomenal" offers. The White House did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment on Cramer's remarks. European stock markets closed sharply lower on Friday, with investors still reeling from the scale of U.S. tariffs announced this week. The regional Stoxx 600 index closed down 5%, marking its worst weekly-loss of the year, falling 8.3% compared to the previous week. Banks shed 8.5% after Thursday's 5.53% plunge. The sector is seen as vulnerable to a slowdown in growth or a recession, now viewed as a much stronger possibility both for the U.S. and the global economy. Bank of America strategists said Friday that banks were also "among the assets least advanced in pricing global macro trouble." China, which has been hit with a total tariff rate of 54% by the U.S., said Friday that it is retaliating with its own 34% tariff on all goods imported from the U.S. starting April 10. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Truth Social: "CHINA PLAYED IT WRONG, THEY PANICKED - THE ONE THING THEY CANNOT AFFORD TO DO!" Top posts El-Erian says U.S. recession risks are now 'uncomfortably high' | view post Why European banks are bleeding out in the wake of U.S. tariffs | view post BP chair Helge Lund to step down | view post The Stoxx 600 closed 2.57% lower on Thursday, as the world digested the steep duties slapped Trump on more than 180 countries, bringing fears of a global trade war and a U.S. recession to a boiling point. Among the hardest-hit sectors on Thursday was retail, with the Stoxx Luxury 10 index down 5.2% in its worst session for nearly four years. Shares of shipping giants Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, bellwethers for the health of the global economy, both fell more than 9%. A version of this article first appeared in CNBC's Inside Wealth newsletter with Robert Frank, a weekly guide to the high net worth investor and consumer. Sign up to receive future editions, straight to your inbox. Private investment firms of the ultra-rich dialed back their deal-making in March as President Donald Trump 's tariffs loomed large. Last month, single-family offices made 40 direct investments, a 45% plunge year-over-year, according to data provided exclusively to CNBC by Fintrx, a private wealth intelligence platform. Investments also dropped 22% month-to-month, accounting for February having three fewer days than March. There were a few exceptions. Euclidean Capital, the family office of late hedge fund mogul Jim Simons , announced its first investment since December. In March, Euclidean Capital participated in a $60 million fundraise for Zeitview, a startup that uses drone imagery and artificial intelligence to inspect infrastructure like wind turbines and solar panels. Dubai Holding, as part of a consortium, completed its acquisition of Nord Anglia Education in a transaction valuing the private-school operator at $14.5 billion. The investment conglomerate, which is owned by the ruling family of Dubai, was joined by institutional investors including the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. Here are five noteworthy deals this month by family offices with at least $5 billion in assets: Trump imposed a far-reaching tariff policy on Wednesday that includes a baseline 10% duty on nearly every country, with rates reaching as high as 46% in the case of Vietnam . In the weeks preceding the announcement, many families paused to evaluate how their portfolio companies may be impacted by tariffs, according to Vicki Odette, partner at Haynes Boone. Odette, who works with family offices and investment funds, said her clients are considering whether their investments will be able to make distributions or successfully exit. Family offices can also move at a slower pace as they face fewer counter-bidders during this lull, she added. At the same time, many families are reluctant to deploy as much capital, concerned that the trade war will impact the operating businesses responsible for their wealth, Odette said. "There's stress on both sides," she told CNBC. This uncertainty is also felt overseas, according to Odette, who works with Middle Eastern families who frequently make investments in the U.S. and Europe. "They're looking at America and saying, 'OK, how is this going to impact everything that's going on in the world?'" she said. Family offices aren't sitting on their hands, however. She has noticed an uptick in interest in private credit funds of short-term loans. "All these families are very opportunistic," Odette said. The entrance to one of the Google buildings in the 'Silicon Docks' area in central Dublin, Ireland, on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022. The European Union says it is keeping all options open if it fails to negotiate its way out of U.S. President Donald Trump's hefty 20% blanket tariffs and that could include going after mighty Big Tech. Ahead of the tariff announcement on Wednesday which has stunned global markets with its scope and scale European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that in formulating its response, Europe "holds a lot of cards, from trade to technology to the size of our market." "This strength is also built on our readiness to take firm countermeasures. All instruments are on the table," Von der Leyen said Tuesday, a sentiment she reiterated on Thursday. As a bloc, the EU is the U.S.'s biggest trading partner across goods, services and investment, and trade between the pair is roughly balanced when accounting for both goods and services. But in calculating its so-called "retaliatory tariffs," the U.S. administration appears to have controversially looked only at countries' trade deficit in goods with the U.S., deeming this gap a "tariff" on the U.S. and landing major exporters such as Vietnam and Sri Lanka with duties of more than 40%. For the EU, that meant a tariff of 20% due to the U.S.' goods deficit of around $235.6 billion. Trump has in recent months taken particular umbrage with the U.S.'s trade relationship with the 27-nation single market, accusing it of treating the world's biggest economy "very badly" and making it "very difficult to bring [U.S.] products into Europe" while selling there. One area in which the EU is a major market for U.S. business is in services and tech companies, Holger Schmieding, chief economist at Berenberg, said Wednesday. "Whereas the EU will probably not retaliate significantly now, it will likely threaten to do so if negotiations do not yield a result by mid-year," he said. While the economist's base case is for roughly half of the extra U.S. tariffs on EU imports to be negotiated away by the end of the second quarter, tech companies are an avenue through which the EU "could hit the U.S. hard," Schmieding said. Such measures could take the form of stricter regulations on Big Tech, or using the bloc's Anti-Coercion Instrument (ACI) to delay issuance of business licenses for U.S. firms, limit access to public contracts, restrict intellectual property rights or outright prohibit investments in the EU, according to Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro for ING Research. Specific targets could include app stores, cell phones, cloud services and other areas such as where are data stored, he said. With few domestic tech giants, Europe has huge appetite for the products and services of the likes of Apple , Google , Amazon , Meta , Microsoft , Intel and LinkedIn. Many have regional headquarters in the Irish capital Dublin, originally attracted by its low corporate tax rate along with big names in the U.S. pharmaceutical and financial services industries. The EU has already taken steps to crack down on Big Tech. The bloc's Digital Markets Act (DMA), for example, aims to tackle the market power of large so-called "gatekeeper" firms such as Google, Apple, Meta, Amazon and Microsoft. Last month, the European Commission which is the executive body of the EU charged Google parent company Alphabet with breaching the DMA and issued Apple with guidance requiring the iPhone maker to do more to comply with the law. Trump has previously cited the EU's regulatory actions against America's tech giants as a reason to hit the bloc with tariffs. In February, he threatened the bloc with tariffs to tackle "overseas extortion" of U.S. tech firms through digital taxes and fines. Former James Bond villain Jonathan Pryce has urged Amazon to bring back 007s witty humour. Jonathan Pryce discussed his hopes for the future of James Bond at The Penguin Lessons premiere The 77-year-old British actor played megalomaniac media mogul Elliot Carver, in the 1997 Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, starring opposite Pierce Brosnan as the secret agent. Pryce has noted that the newer Bond films - the most recent of which was 2021's 'No Time To Die' starring Daniel Craig as 007 - were admirable action pictures but hopes that Amazon MGM Studios will bring back the signature tongue-in-cheek gags from the early films that starred Sean Connery and Roger Moore as Bond. In an exclusive interview with BANG Showbiz at 'The Penguin Lessons' UK premiere in London on Thursday night (03.04.25), he said: "The recent ones have been great films. They've been great action films, but I think they lost some of the sense of humour that was in the early films. So Id like them to get back to that. Whatever they want to do is fine, but I think for those who really care about James Bond, they should preserve that sense of humour. Amazon MGM Studios acquired creative control of the James Bond franchise, after its long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson ceded control. Amy Pascal and David Heyman will be leading the series as the new producers and Amazon MGM's head of Film, Streaming and Theatrical, Courtenay Valenti, and global marketing chief Sue Kroll took to the stage at CinemaCon to give fans an update on their plans for James Bond. As reported by Deadline, Valenti said: "We are committed to honouring the legacy of this iconic character, while bringing a fresh, exhilarating new chapter to audiences around the world alongside Amy and David." Pryce's latest role see him play a headteacher in 'The Penguin Lessons' which is based on Tom Michell's 2016 memoir which documents the British teacher's move to a boarding school in Argentina in 1976 and how his life and the school are transformed by an orphaned penguin he rescues from an oil slick on a beach. The film was shot in Spain and stars Steve Coogan as Tom as well as real life penguins as Tom's unusual pet. Pryce was recently nominated for a BAFTA for his role as David Cartwright in the Apple TV original series Slow Horses and he is delighted that the show, as well as himself, are getting the recognition they deserve. Discussing the nomination at the premiere of 'The Penguin Lessons' at the Curzon Mayfair, Pryce said: "Im feeling good. It's a show that I'm really proud of. I think it's great. I think everyone in it is great. The production is great. I'm glad it's getting the recognition it deserves. The seal of the US Department of Justice in Washington, DC on March 21, 2024. A New York federal judge on Friday ordered the jailing of convicted drug dealer and predatory lender Jonathan Braun, whose 10-year prison sentence was commuted in 2021 by President Donald Trump, after a string of arrests over the past seven months. Braun was arrested last weekend on Long Island on state charges of assaulting an acquaintance and that man's three-year-old child, The New York Times revealed Tuesday. Before that, he was arrested multiple other times on state charges, including for allegedly assaulting his wife and his 75-year-old father-in-law, groping a nanny's breast, menacing health-care workers with an IV pole at a Long Island hospital, and petty larceny, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office in Brooklyn. Those arrests led the U.S. Probation Office to charge Braun with seven violations of his federal supervised release, which continued after his release from prison in 2021. U.S. Marshals found and arrested Braun at a hotel on Friday morning after not finding him at his Long Island home. The U.S. Attorney's Office is prosecuting him in the case, where he faces up to five years in prison if convicted. Brooklyn U.S. District Court Judge Kiyo Matsumoto ordered Braun detained during an arraignment hearing Friday, ruling that he is a danger to the community and a flight risk. Braun pleaded not guilty at a hearing. "The behavior is erratic," Matsumoto said at the arraignment, The Times reported. "There's the potential someone could really get hurt." In this article MSFT Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella speaks during the Microsoft Build conference at Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Washington, on May 21, 2024. Jason Redmond | AFP | Getty Images A half-century ago, childhood friends Bill Gates and Paul Allen started Microsoft from a strip mall in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Five decades and almost $3 trillion later, the company celebrates its 50th birthday on Friday from its sprawling campus in Redmond, Washington. Now the second most valuable publicly traded company in the world, Microsoft has only had three CEOs in its history, and all of them are in attendance for the monumental event. One is current CEO Satya Nadella. The other two are Gates and Steve Ballmer, both among the 11 richest people in the world due to their Microsoft fortunes. While Microsoft has mostly been on the ascent of late, with Nadella turning the company into a major power player in cloud computing and artificial intelligence, the birthday party lands at an awkward moment. The company's stock price has dropped for four consecutive months for the first time since 2009 and just suffered its steepest quarterly drop in three years. That was all before President Donald Trump's announcement this week of sweeping tariffs, which sent the Nasdaq tumbling on Thursday and Microsoft down another 2.4%. Cloud computing has been Microsoft's main source of new revenue since Nadella took over from Ballmer as CEO in 2014. But the Azure cloud reported disappointing revenue in the latest quarter, a miss that finance chief Amy Hood attributed in January to power and space shortages and a sales posture that focused too much on AI. Hood said revenue growth in the current quarter will fall to 10% from 17% a year earlier Nadella said management is refining sales incentives to maximize revenue from traditional workloads, while positioning the company to benefit from the ongoing AI boom. "You would rather win the new than just protect the past," Nadella told analysts on a conference call. The past remains healthy. Microsoft still generates around one-fifth of its roughly $262 billion in annual revenue from productivity software, mostly from commercial clients. Windows makes up around 10% of sales. Meanwhile, the company has used its massive cash pile to orchestrate its three largest acquisitions on record in a little over eight years, snapping up LinkedIn in late 2016, Nuance Communications in 2022 and Activision Blizzard in 2023, for a combined $121 billion. watch now "Microsoft has figured out how to stay ahead of the curve, and 50 years later, this is a company that can still be on the forefront of technology innovation," said Soma Somasegar, a former Microsoft executive who now invests in startups at venture firm Madrona. "That's a commendable place for the company to be in." When Somasegar gave up his corporate vice president position at Microsoft in 2015, the company was fresh off a $7.6 billion write-down from Ballmer's ill-timed purchase of Nokia's devices and services business. Microsoft is now in a historic phase of investment. The company has built a $13.8 billion stake in OpenAI and last year spent almost $76 billion on capital expenditures and finance leases, up 83% from a year prior, partly to enable the use of AI models in the Azure cloud. In January, Nadella said Microsoft has $13 billion in annualized AI revenue, more even than OpenAI, which just closed a financing round valuing the company at $300 billion. Microsoft's spending spree has constrained free cash flow growth. Guggenheim analysts wrote in a note after the company's earnings report in January, "You just have to believe in the future." Of the 35 Microsoft analysts tracked by FactSet, 32 recommend buying the stock, which has appreciated tenfold since Nadella became CEO. Azure has become a fearsome threat to Amazon Web Services, which pioneered the cloud market in the 2000s, and startups as well as enterprises are flocking to its cloud technology. Winston Weinberg, CEO of legal AI startup Harvey, uses OpenAI models through Azure. Weinberg lauded Nadella's focus on customers of all sizes. "Satya has literally responded to emails within 15 minutes of us having a technical problem, and he'll route it to the right person," Weinberg said. Still, technology is moving at an increasingly rapid pace and Microsoft's ability to stay on top is far from guaranteed. Industry experts highlighted four key issues the company has to address as it pushes into its next half-century. Microsoft didn't respond to a request for comment. Regulation There's some optimism that the Trump administration and a new head of the Federal Trade Commission will open up the door to the kinds of deal-making that proved very challenging during Joe Biden's presidency, when Lina Khan headed the FTC. But regulatory uncertainty remains. It's not a new risk for Microsoft. In 1995, the company paid a $46 million breakup fee to tax software maker Intuit after the Justice Department filed suit to block the proposed deal. Years later, the DOJ got Microsoft to revamp some of its practices after a landmark antitrust case. Microsoft pushed through its largest acquisition ever, the $75 billion purchase of video game publisher Activision, during Biden's term. But only after a protracted legal battle with the FTC. At the very end of Biden's time in office, the FTC opened an antitrust investigation on Microsoft. That probe is ongoing, Bloomberg reported in March. Nadella has cultivated a relationship with Trump. In January, the two reportedly met for lunch at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk. President Donald Trump shakes hands with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella during an American Technology Council roundtable at the White House in Washington on June 19, 2017. Nicholas Kamm | AFP | Getty Images The U.S. isn't the only concern. The U.K.'s Competition and Markets Authority said in January that an independent inquiry found that "Microsoft is using its strong position in software to make it harder for AWS and Google to compete effectively for cloud customers that wish to use Microsoft software on the cloud." Microsoft last year committed to unbundling Teams from Microsoft 365 productivity software subscriptions globally to address concerns from the European Union's executive arm, the European Commission. Noncore markets Fairly early in Microsoft's history the company became the world's largest software maker. And in cloud, Microsoft is the biggest challenger to AWS. Most of the company's revenue comes from corporations, schools and governments. But Microsoft is in other markets where its position is weaker. Those include video games, laptops and search advertising. Mary Jo Foley, editor in chief at advisory group Directions on Microsoft, said the company may be better off focusing on what it does best, rather than continuing to offer Xbox consoles and Surface tablets. "Microsoft is not good at anything in the consumer space (with the possible exception of gaming)," wrote Foley, who has covered the company on and off since 1984. "You're wasting time and money on trying to figure it out. Microsoft is an enterprise company and that is more than OK." It's unlikely Microsoft will back away from games, particularly after the Activision deal. Nearly $12 billion of Microsoft's $69.6 billion in fourth-quarter revenue came from gaming, search and news advertising, and consumer subscriptions to the Microsoft 365 productivity bundle. That doesn't include sales of devices, Windows licenses or advertising on LinkedIn. "As a company, Microsoft's all-in on gaming," Nadella said in 2021 in an appearance alongside gaming unit head Phil Spencer. "We believe we can play a leading role in democratizing gaming and defining that future of interactive entertainment, quite frankly, at scale." AI pressure Microsoft has an unquestionably strong position in AI today, thanks in no small part to its early alliance with OpenAI. Microsoft has added the startup's AI models to Windows, Excel, Bing and other products. The breakout has been GitHub Copilot, which generates source code and answers developers' questions. GitHub reached $2 billion in annualized revenue last year, with Copilot accounting for more than 40% of sales growth for the business. Microsoft bought GitHub in 2018 for $7.5 billion. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, right, speaks as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman looks on during the OpenAI DevDay event in San Francisco on Nov. 6, 2023. Justin Sullivan | Getty Images But speedy deployment in AI can be worrisome. The company is "not providing the underpinnings needed to deploy AI properly, in terms of security and governance all because they care more about being 'first,'" Foley wrote. Microsoft also hasn't been great at helping customers understand the return on investment, she wrote. AI-ready Copilot+ PCs, which Microsoft introduced last year, aren't gaining much traction. The company had to delay the release of the Recall search feature to prevent data breaches. And the Copilot assistant subscription, at $30 a month for customers of the Microsoft 365 productivity suite, hasn't become pervasive in the business world. "Copilot was really their chance to take the lead," said Jason Wong, an analyst at technology industry researcher Gartner. "But increasingly, what it's seeming like is Copilot is just an add-on and not like a net-new thing to drive AI." Innovation At 50, the biggest question facing Microsoft is whether it can still build impressive technology on its own. Products like the Surface and HoloLens augmented reality headset generated buzz, but they hit the market years ago. Teams was a novel addition to its software bundle, though the app's success came during the Covid pandemic after the explosive growth in products like Zoom and Slack, which Salesforce acquired. And Microsoft is still researching quantum computing. In AI, Microsoft's best bet so far was its investment in OpenAI. Somasegar said Microsoft is in prime position to be a big player in the market. "To me, it's been 2 years since ChatGPT showed up, and we are not even at the Uber and Airbnb moment," Somasegar said. "There is a tremendous amount of value creation that needs to happen in AI. Microsoft as much as everybody else is thinking, 'What does that mean? How do we get there?'" South Koreas impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol arrives for his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court in Seoul, South Korea, on Jan. South Korea's Constitutional Court Friday upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, ousting him from office. The decision now starts a 60-day countdown where a presidential election must be held to select the next president. In the interim, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has been reinstated as acting president following a decision by the constitutional court on March 24. In a broadcast on South Korea television, the acting chief of the Constitutional Court Moon Hyung-bae said the decision was unanimous. Moon said that the former president's declaration of martial law did not meet the legal requirement for a national crisis. He added that Yoon had violated the law by sending troops to the country's parliament to stop the reversal of martial law, according to a translation by local media Yonhap. Following the decision, South Korea's Kospi plunged 1.66%, and the small cap Kosdaq fell 0.85%. The South Korean won strengthened about 1%. South Korea's Democratic Party declared the ruling a "people's victory," while Yoon's People's Power Party said it "humbly accepts" the court's decision, according to Yonhap. South Korea's finance minister has convened an emergency meeting with Bank of Korea governor Rhee Chang-yong, as well as the heads of the country's financial supervisory service and financial supervisory commission "to examine the impact on the financial and real economy following the Constitutional Court's ruling," according to a Google translation of a media report from the Seoul-based Chosun Biz. Check out the companies making headlines in midday trading: Bank stocks Major banks declined on Friday, as President Donald Trump's new tariff policies increasingly raised fears of a U.S. economic pullback. Shares of JPMorgan , Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo each tumbled more than 7%. about 8%. Goldman Sachs and Citigroup declined by about 7.8% and 7.9%, respectively. Tesla , Palantir Technologies Top picks among retail investors were not able to buck Friday's sell-off. Electric vehicle maker Tesla dropped 10.4%, while defense technology stock Palantir tumbled 11.5%. Property stocks Real estate stocks Prologis and Simon Property Group slipped by about 3.3% and 4.7%, respectively, on Friday. Property stocks are sensitive to consumers' discretionary spending levels. Apple Shares of the iPhone maker slid 7.3% on China's retaliatory duties against the U.S. China makes up for about 80% of Apple's production capacity with about 90% of iPhones assembled in the country, according to Evercore ISI estimates. China funds China-focused exchange-traded funds fell after the country's finance ministry announced a 34% tariff on U.S. imports beginning April 10, in response to the Trump administration's cumulative 54% duty on Chinese goods. The KraneShares CSI China Internet ETF (KWEB) declined more than 9%, while the iShares MSCI China ETF (MCHI) and the iShares China Large-Cap ETF (FXI) dropped 6.8% each. Chipmakers Semiconductor stocks with notable exposure to China slipped. Shares of Marvell Technology fell about 11.2%, while Intel lost 11.5%. Nvidia and Broadcom shares lost 7.4% and 5%, respectively. Manufacturing stocks Shares of farm and construction equipment manufacturers declined amid the latest tariff updates. Deere and CNH Industrial dropped 3.9% and 4.9%, respectively, while Caterpillar fell 5.8%. UBS analyst Steven Fisher said in a note to clients that "the trade dynamics are a headwind to the ag sector and to farm machinery companies, as farmers tend to prefer free trade, rather than rely on government payments." Boeing , GE Aerospace Boeing slid by 9.5%, and GE Aerospace plunged 16.5%. Trump's raft of tariffs threaten to drive the cost of aircraft, engines and other aerospace products higher. Shell Shares of the London-based energy company lost 8% after Trump's tariffs led U.S. oil prices to drop to their lowest level since 2021 this week. Casino stocks Casino operators in Macao declined on Friday. Shares of Las Vegas Sands slipped about 8.4%, while Wynn Resorts and MGM Resorts International each declined by more than 3.5%. CNBC's Alex Harring, Sean Conlon, Lisa Han and Hakyung Kim contributed reporting. A trade war between the U.S. and China is quickly escalating as Beijing hit back with retaliatory tariffs against President Donald Trump's steep duties. For investors on edge about the market turmoil, here are the stocks that could be hurt the most due to their China exposure. China's finance ministry on Friday said it will impose a 34% tariff on all goods imported from the U.S. starting on April 10. Beijing criticized Washington's decision to impose 34% of additional reciprocal levies on China bringing total U.S. tariffs against the country to 54% as "inconsistent with international trade rules." The stock market is set for another bloodbath with the Dow futures shedding more than 1,000 points . Companies with large exposure to China led declines in premarket trading with Qualcomm and Nvidia down 5% and 4%, respectively. Goldman Sachs screened for stocks with revenue exposure of at least 25% to the Greater China region, as reported in 2023 fillings. By the firm's definition, this region also includes Taiwan. Here are 10 that made the list: Nvidia is one of several chipmakers on the list, clocking 39% revenue exposure to the region. It comes during a pullback for shares, with the artificial intelligence darling's stock down more than 17% in 2025 after two years of monster gains. Following that turmoil, Wall Street expects a rebound ahead for the megacap tech giant and retail investor favorite. The average analyst polled by LSEG has a buy rating and price target suggesting shares can rebound about 58%. Beyond chips and AI, casino stocks are also represented on the list with Las Vegas Sands and Wynn Resorts . This can be explained by the companies' presences in Macao, a gambling destination that has earned the nickname the "Las Vegas of Asia." Las Vegas Sands has 63% revenue exposure as of 2023. While shares have tumbled more than 24% year to date, most analysts have a buy rating and the average price target implies shares can rally nearly 50%, per LSEG. Wynn Resorts, meanwhile, recorded 47% revenue exposure to the Greater China region. Wynn has outperformed its peer, with shares sliding about 4% in 2025. The majority of analysts surveyed by LSEG also have a buy rating, with an average price target implying more than 37% upside. WYNN LVS YTD mountain Wynn vs. Las Vegas Sands, year to date Get Your Ticket to Pro LIVE Join us at the New York Stock Exchange!| Uncertain markets? Gain an edge with CNBC Pro LIVE , an exclusive, inaugural event at the historic New York Stock Exchange. In today's dynamic financial landscape, access to expert insights is paramount. As a CNBC Pro subscriber, we invite you to join us for our first exclusive, in-person CNBC Pro LIVE event at the iconic NYSE on Thursday, June 12. Join interactive Pro clinics led by our Pros Carter Worth, Dan Niles and Dan Ives, with a special edition of Pro Talks with Tom Lee. You'll also get the opportunity to network with CNBC experts, talent and other Pro subscribers during an exciting cocktail hour on the legendary trading floor. Tickets are limited! U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon smiles during the signing event for an executive order to shut down the Department of Education next to U.S. President Donald Trump, in the East Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., March 20, 2025. WASHINGTON The Supreme Court on Friday allowed the Trump administration to terminate Education Department grants for teacher training that officials deemed to violate their new policy opposing diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. The 5-4 decision blocks a Massachusetts-based judge's ruling that said the administration had failed to follow the correct legal process in terminating the grants. About $65 million in grant payments are outstanding. The decision is the first win for President Donald Trump at the Supreme Court in his second term. Five of the court's conservatives were in the majority, while Chief Justice John Roberts joined the three liberals in dissent. The unsigned decision said that the district court judge did not have authority to order that the funds be paid under a federal law called the Administrative Procedure Act. The administration "compellingly argues" that the entities receiving the funds will not suffer irreparable harm as a result of the funds being withheld, the decision said. In a dissenting opinion, liberal Justice Elena Kagan disputed that conclusion, saying that the grant recipients had said they would be forced to cancel some of their programs. "Nowhere in its papers does the government defend the legality of canceling the education grants at issue here," she added. "It is beyond puzzling that a majority of justices conceive of the government's application as an emergency," liberal Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson said in a separate opinion. The 104 grants at issue had been awarded under two different programs, the Teacher Quality Partnership and another called Supporting Effective Educator Development. The Department of Education in February found that the grants violated President Donald Trump's executive order that the administration eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, programs that are traditionally aimed in part at ensuring that people from historically marginalized groups can obtain equal opportunities to advance their careers. Administration officials said the funded programs "promote or take part in DEI initiatives or other initiatives that unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or another protected characteristic." In court papers, acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris said many of the programs contained "objectionable DEI material." A lawsuit was filed in March by eight states including California, Massachusetts and New York on behalf of entities that receive the grants, such as universities and nonprofits saying the decision to rescind the awards violated a federal law called the Administrative Procedure Act. U.S. District Judge Myong Joun issued a temporary restraining order blocking the administration's move, saying officials had failed to properly explain their reasoning. The Boston-based 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals declined to block Joun's ruling, noting that the Education Department had sent the same boilerplate letter to all of the grant awardees announcing the termination of funding. The letters contained no specific information on why any particular program was deemed to be in violation of the anti-DEI policy, the appeals court said. The case only involves grants issued to entities in the states that sued. In total, the Department of Education canceled about $600 million in grants for teacher training. In two prior emergency applications filed by the Trump administration, the Supreme Court did not grant its requests. In one, the court rejected the administration's bid to avoid immediately paying contractors for the U.S. Agency for International Development whose funding was cut. In the other, the court sidestepped a decision on whether Trump could fire a federal government watchdog, although as a result of a lower court decision, the administration ultimately prevailed. In this article BA GE Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT The production line for the Boeing P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft is pictured at Boeing's 737 factory in Renton, Washington, November 18, 2021. Jason Redmond | Reuters President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs are set to drive up the cost of Boeing and Airbus planes, GE Aerospace engines, and hundreds of other aerospace and defense products, threatening an industry that helps soften the U.S. trade deficit by more than $100 billion a year. "It certainly makes things more expensive for the industry," Dak Hardwick, vice president of international affairs at the Aerospace Industries Association, which represents Boeing, GE Aerospace, Airbus and dozens of other aerospace and defense companies, said of the tariffs. The industry group said it is asking the Trump administration to uphold provisions in a nearly half-century old trade agreement that allows for duty-free trade of civilian aircraft and imports tied to defense and national security. "The line is certainly long" for requests to the White House, Hardwick said. Trump's executive order announcing the tariffs said trade and economic policies around the world have exacerbated a decline in overall U.S. manufacturing. Regarding innovation in the defense sector, the order stated, "If the United States wishes to maintain an effective security umbrella to defend its citizens and homeland, as well as for its allies and partners, it needs to have a large upstream manufacturing and goods-producing ecosystem to manufacture these products without undue reliance on imports for key inputs." The aerospace industry has long been a top exporter for the United States. At Boeing alone, more than two-thirds of its airplane orders over the past decade came from customers outside of the United States, according to company data. "Free trade is very important to us," Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg said at a Senate hearing Wednesday. "We really are the ideal kind of an export company where we're outselling internationally. It's creating U.S. jobs, long-term high value U.S. jobs. So it's important that we continue to have access to that market and that we don't get in a situation where certain markets become closed to us." President and CEO of Boeing Kelly Ortberg testifies before the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on April 02, 2025 in Washington, DC. Win Mcnamee | Getty Images News | Getty Images The industry has mostly bought and sold planes and parts without having to pay tariffs under a 45-year-old trade agreement, which would be derailed by Trump's new tariffs. The president this week introduced levies of 10% on countries around the world, with higher duties on certain countries and regions, some of which like Europe, are key to the aerospace industry. Imported steel and aluminum, other key materials in airplanes, are subject to separate sector-level duties that Trump announced earlier this year. "President Trump has been clear: if you make your product in America, you won't have to worry about tariffs," White House spokesman Kush Desai said in an email. Tariffs are paid by the importer, and the increased prices due to the levies would either have to be absorbed by the airplane or engine maker, by the still-fragile supply chain or by the end consumer, said Hardwick. Jefferies analyst Sheila Kahyaoglu said in a note Thursday that a price jump on "any product within 12 months is eaten by the [original equipment manufacturer], assuming new inventory buy. Outside that time period, ultimately the buyer and hence consumer." Stock Chart Icon Stock chart icon Boeing and the S&P 500 Prices for planes are negotiated in advance, and airlines have to often wait years for aircraft, so material costs can shift dramatically over that period. "This is not where you put money down for an automobile and it ends up in your driveway" in three months, Hardwick said. Shares of Boeing, engine maker GE and airlines tumbled again Friday, adding to the market rout after Trump announced the tariffs Wednesday. "This is the one manufacturing sector where America has, has enjoyed a tremendous trade surplus," said Richard Aboulafia, managing director at AeroDynamic Advisory. "So the idea of fighting a trade war for this industry, it's living in a crystal palace hurling giant boulders." Global supply chain The tariffs are also a new strain on the aerospace industry, which still has a fragile supply chain in the wake of Covid, with some parts in short supply. Major supplies have tried to quickly hire workers and ramp up production during a post-pandemic travel boom. But airplane makers still haven't kept up with demand. An Airbus SE A321 plane fuselage is lifted with a crane at the company's final assembly line facility in Mobile, Alabama Luke Sharrett | Bloomberg | Getty Images Even a "Made in the USA" label for an airplane is a misnomer. For example, the supply chain for a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which is assembled in South Carolina, spans from Japan to Italy. Its European rival, Airbus, has a Mobile, Alabama, factory but is still on the hook for tariffs for imported parts, from wings to fuselages. "It doesn't matter who owns the company. If an item crosses the border, it will have to be paid by importer of record," Hardwick said. Airbus has expanded the factory since the first Alabama-assembled Airbus A321, an aircraft for JetBlue Airways named "BluesMobile," rolled out nine years ago. Its bet on increasing U.S. output of its jets, which are still largely made in Europe, also includes assembly of smaller A220s in Alabama, for customers that include JetBlue and Delta Air Lines . American Airlines workers perform maintenance on CFM-56 engine in Tulsa, Oklahoma Erin Black | CNBC A clear split of winners and losers among Europe's prized high-end luxury brands could emerge after President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs were seen blowing a hole in lucrative U.S. sales, analysts warned. The U.S. has been a major growth driver for many luxury brands in recent quarters, as firms have shifted their focus to well-heeled American consumers amid waning Chinese sales. But fresh duties of 10%, 20% and 31% on imported goods from the U.K., Europe and Switzerland, respectively, could dent that demand as designer goods typically dependent on European and Asian production pass on added costs to consumers. "We expect most luxury brands to pass that on to the end-consumer through another round of high-single-digit percentage price increases in the US [in] the coming weeks in order to mitigate some of the impact," the analysts wrote in a note Thursday. U.S. exposure Citi flagged German shoemaker maker Birkenstock , Italian fashion house Brunello Cucinelli and Danish jeweller Pandora among the stocks with the biggest exposure to U.S. consumers. Pandora shares shed 11% Thursday, hitting its lowest level in a year, on the announcement of 37% tariffs on its main production hub, Thailand. That's well above the 10% tariff base case management forecast in February, without citing mitigation measures, Citi noted. Pandora shares continued to fall on Friday after the firm said Trump's tariffs would have a potential impact of 1.2 billion Danish krone ($176.6 million) on the company. Elsewhere, Swiss jewelry and watchmakers, for whom the U.S. is a large market, face a larger than expected tariff blow, likely hitting sales at Richemont and Swatch Group . Potential winners Among the possible outliers on the positive side were stocks with lower U.S. revenue exposure, more localized production stateside, and those that face more modest tariff rates. They include Italian fashion label Moncler , British brand Burberry and French luxury house LVMH . Meantime, brands that have thus far managed to weather a wider luxury downturn and depressed consumer spending, such as Hermes , could be best placed to pass on price rises. "Those companies with strong pricing power/higher-end positioning such [as] Hermes and Richemont might find it easier to mitigate the impact through pricing, we think," the analysts added. A customer pushes a shopping cart containing stuffed toys at a Target Corp. store in the Queens borough of New York, U.S, on Thursday, Nov. 28, 2019. The toy aisle is about to get more expensive. President Donald Trump expanded his trade war this week, placing a 10% baseline tariff on almost every country and much steeper levies on dozens of others. Among those hit with higher tariffs were China and Vietnam two nations that are vital to the domestic toy industry. For decades, U.S. toy companies have worked with Chinese manufacturers to bring the hottest action figures, dolls and games to retail shelves. Vietnam became a solid secondary market for companies looking to diversify their factory locations amid growing trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. Trump slapped China with an additional 34% duty Wednesday, bringing the total tax on goods from the nation to 54%, and hit Vietnam with a 46% tariff. The levy is far higher than what toy companies expected and could lead to massive price hikes on toys, industry experts said. "Everyone is really in scramble mode," Greg Ahearn, president and CEO of The Toy Association, told CNBC. "This is going to have massive negative repercussions for the consumer and for our industry." Adding to the tensions, China is set to impose a retaliatory 34% levy on all U.S. products, its commerce ministry announced Friday. "I think the Vietnam situation will be a little bit easier to negotiate, as far as I think we will see the Vietnamese country and government come to the table quicker than China trying to resolve any trade disputes," said Curtis McGill, co-founder of Hey Buddy Hey Pal, which makes the Eggmazing Egg Decorator, a crafting tool that spins eggs so kids can use markers to color them. "They're just not in a place where they can stand losing much of the business." Around 77% of toys imported into the United States come from China, according to data from The Toy Association. Vietnam is third, just behind Mexico. Trump previously placed a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico that aren't compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Hasbro and Mattel , leaders in the toy space, both incorporated a 20% tariff impact from China in their guidance projections for 2025 and had strategies in place to shift production to other countries, like Vietnam, Indonesia and India, all three of which were also hit with tariffs 46%, 32% and 26%, respectively. "As a result, relocating production may not be financially viable," wrote Eric Handler, analyst at Roth, in a research note to investors published Thursday. "The consumer should soon see price increases to partially offset the tariff impact." Hasbro and Mattel report first-quarter earnings this month, and Handler said investors will likely see guidance cuts from both companies. Toy companies have already been slammed on Wall Street in the wake of the tariff announcement. Mattel shares fell more than 16.5% in Thursday trading, Hasbro lost more than 12% and Funko , which also has manufacturing in China and Vietnam, saw its stock plummet 18%. While Handler expects companies to try and lower costs through contract renegotiations with manufacturers and, perhaps, even altering packaging to improve margins, he said there is little doubt that consumers will bear the brunt of Trump's duties. "You could have anywhere from 35% to potentially even a point-for-point price increase on products depending upon what margin those products run at," The Toy Association's Ahearn said. "It may actually just be a 50% price increase, given it's a 54% tariff." Most toy margins are in the high single digits, he noted. So, there is very little wiggle room for companies to absorb these fees. "There's no place for it to go, but to the consumer," Ahearn said, noting that The Toy Association expects price hikes to coincide with this year's back-to-school season. "The greatest budgetary impact on are the folks, unfortunately, who can afford it the least," he said. U.S. President Donald Trump's so-called 'Liberation Day' trade tariffs are "madness, pure madness", according to former Italian Prime Minister and Dean of the IE School of Politics Enrico Letta, who called the reciprocal levies "incomprehensible." Speaking to CNBC's Silvia Amaro on the shores of Lake Como at the Ambrosetti Forum on Friday, he said Trump was exploiting fragmentation within the EU, adding it was crucial for the bloc to come together. He further warned that the sweeping U.S. duties which he described as a "crazy frontal attack on the world" would be painful for economies and individuals within the U.S., as well as the nations targeted by the tariffs. He conceded that retaliatory measures could be needed to protect the European economy, but warned "if the reaction to Trump is to close Europe in a fortress, this reaction would be worse." CNBC has reached out to the White House for comment and is awaiting reply. His comments broadly echo the sentiments of other European officials, after the bloc was hit with 20% of reciprocal tariffs on imports to the U.S. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has signaled that the bloc would prepare countermeasures, if negotiations with Washington fail. France and Germany have both called for a coordinated response, with German Economy Minister Robert Habeck saying Trump would "buckle under the pressure." "And this pressure now needs to be unfolded, from Germany, from Europe in the alliance with other countries, and then we will see who is the stronger one in this arm wrestle," Habeck said. European economic growth could come under extensive pressure in the wake of the tariffs, which could push local producers to lower prices to defend their market share of exports. Deutsche Bank has calculated the hit to euro-area GDP from the tariffs will be around 0.4-0.8 percentage points, larger than the previous 0.3-0.4pp range forecast in the bank's 2025-2026 GDP forecast. The investment bank stated this is "broadly equivalent to economic stagnation through mid-2025," while allowing that "euro-area growth forecast of +1.0% could remain broadly valid thanks for the initial growth benefits of the defence/infrastructure spending" kicked off by Europe's ReArm initiative. Amal Clooney did not attend George Clooney's opening night on Broadway so she could look after their children. Amal Clooney did not attend George Clooney's opening night on Broadway so she could look after their children The 63-year-old actor - who has been married to Amal, 47, since 2014 and has seven-year-old twins Ella and Alexander with her - made his debut on The Great White Way in a production of 'Good Night, and Good Luck' on Thursday (03.04.25) evening but while a host of celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Cindy Crawford and Uma Thurman were in the audience, Amal was not. According to People, George told reporters: "She's with the kids." The 'Ticket to Paradise' actor previously noted that the schedule of a play meant that he still got to see his children for part of the day. Speaking on 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert', he explained: "Actually, a play is kind of a good schedule because youre working at night. "You get to see the kids during the day, so its okay." The former 'ER' star previously explained that he was "honoured" to be taking on the role at the Shubert Theater as he tried something new in his career. He said in a statement: "I am honoured, after all these years, to be coming back to the stage and especially, to Broadway, the art form and the venue that every actor aspires to." He plays journalist Edward R. Murrow, who was originally played by David Strathairn in the 2005 film, while Clooney actually played his collaborator Fred W. Friendly. He penned the journalism drama with Grans Heslov, and the pair will once again collaborate on the Broadway adaptation, although David Cromer is stepping into direct instead of the Hollywood star. Cromer added: "Edward R. Murrow operated from a kind of moral clarity that feels vanishingly rare in today's media landscape. "There was an immediacy in those early live television broadcasts that today can only be effectively captured on stage, in front of a live audience." The historical drama focuses on 1950s television news in the United States, and the conflict between broadcaster Murrow, and Senator Joseph McCarthy. Clooney is following in the footsteps of Steve Carell and Rachel McAdams, who made their own Broadway debuts last year following decades of Hollywood success. President Donald Trump on Friday extended a deadline requiring China-based ByteDance to sell the U.S. operations of TikTok or face an effective ban in the country, marking the second time he has taken such action. Trump announced the extension on his Truth Social platform, saying the TikTok deal "requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed." The extension will "keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days," he said. The new extension kicks TikTok's deadline to mid-June. "We hope to continue working in Good Faith with China, who I understand are not very happy about our Reciprocal Tariffs (Necessary for Fair and Balanced Trade between China and the U.S.A.!)," Trump said in the post. ByteDance has been in discussion with the U.S. government, the company told CNBC, adding that any agreement will be subject to approval under Chinese law. "An agreement has not been executed," a spokesperson for ByteDance said in a statement. "There are key matters to be resolved." Before Trump's decision, ByteDance faced an April 5 deadline to carry out a "qualified divestiture" of TikTok's U.S. business as required by a national security law signed by former President Joe Biden in April 2024. ByteDance's original deadline to sell TikTok was on Jan. 19, but Trump signed an executive order when he took office the next day that gave the company 75 more days to make a deal. Although the law would penalize internet service providers and app store owners like Apple and Google for hosting and providing services to TikTok in the U.S., Trump's executive order instructed the attorney general to not enforce it. The day before the law went into effect, Apple and Google removed TikTok from their respective app stores while TikTok temporarily shut down for American users. It came back online the next day after Trump said he would sign an executive order. TikTok returned to the Apple App Store and Google Play in February. Several parties like Oracle and AppLovin have expressed interest in owning TikTok's U.S. assets, CNBC's David Faber reported. Earlier on Wednesday, Amazon made a last-second bid to purchase TikTok, CNBC confirmed. Another interested party included a group like Andreessen Horowitz, Blackstone and other private capital firms, who would own roughly half of TikTok's U.S. operations in a deal, the Financial Times reported Wednesday. In this deal, TikTok's current investors like General Atlantic, Susquehanna, KKR and Coatue would be included in the new U.S.-specific TikTok unit, owning about 30% of the business, the report said. Billionaire Frank McCourt and his Project Liberty consortium are also interested in acquiring TikTok's U.S. operations, and in March, they announced that Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian is backing the initiative. The startup Perplexity also proposed a deal in which it would merge with TikTok's U.S. operations, CNBC previously reported. The Chinese government still needs to approve the deal before it can be completed. "This proves that Tariffs are the most powerful Economic tool, and very important to our National Security!," Trump said in the Truth Social post. "We do not want TikTok to 'go dark.' We look forward to working with TikTok and China to close the Deal. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" The TikTok-related announcement came after Trump on Wednesday signed a far-reaching "reciprocal tariff" policy at the White House, in which he imposed a 34% tariff rate on China. Coupled with the existing 20% tariffs on Chinese imports, the true tariff rate on China is now 54%. Trump previously said he may consider reducing China tariffs to help facilitate a TikTok deal. The president also said that it's possible he would give ByteDance another extension if there was not a finalized deal. Last month, Vice President JD Vance told NBC News that a TikTok-related deal could potentially happen by the April deadline. "There will almost certainly be a high-level agreement that I think satisfies our national security concerns, allows there to be a distinct American TikTok enterprise," Vance said at the time. WATCH: TikTok bid is 'in active dialogue' with Trump administration President Donald Trump announced an aggressive, far-reaching "reciprocal" tariff policy Wednesday, leaving many economists and U.S. trade partners to question how the White House calculated its rates. Trump's plan established a 10% baseline tariff on almost every country, though many nations such as China, Vietnam and Taiwan are subject to much steeper rates. At a ceremony in the Rose Garden on Wednesday, Trump held up a poster board that outlined the tariffs the administration contends are "charged" to the U.S., as well as the "discounted" tariffs the U.S. would implement in response. Those reciprocal tariffs are mostly about half of what the Trump administration said each country has charged the U.S. For example, the poster said China charges a tariff of 67% and that the U.S. will implement a 34% reciprocal tariff in response. However, a report from the Cato Institute said the trade-weighted average tariff rates in most countries are much lower than the Trump administration said. The report is based on trade-weighted average duty rates from the World Trade Organization in 2023, the most recent year available. It's milestone month for the exchange-traded fund industry. Actively managed ETFs now have more than $1 trillion in assets under management, according to independent research firm ETFGI. That's roughly the market cap of Berkshire Hathaway , Saudi Arabia's gross domestic product and the value of 121 New York Yankees franchises. The ETF Store's Nate Geraci thinks it will grow even bigger due to the appetite for new active investing strategies. "It's interesting for an industry where the roots are passively managed products. That's what the industry was built on," the firm's president told CNBC's "ETF Edge" this week. "It's interesting to see active ETFs getting all of the attention right now." Geraci finds most of the flows are going into "much more systemic strategies," including a combination of passive and aggressive. "When you look at the growth in the number of actively managed ETFs out there these aren't what you necessarily think of as traditional active," he added. "It is products like options-based income ETFs [and] buffer ETFs." Actively managed ETFs now comprise almost one-tenth of the ETF industry, according to VettaFi's Kirsten Chang. Bolivian authorities have arrested 20 alleged representatives of the self-proclaimed United States of Kailasa on charges of "land trafficking", accusing them of securing vast tracts of the Amazon rainforest through deceptive 1,000-year leases with indigenous groups. The arrests mark the latest setback for Kailasa, a so-called sovereign Hindu nation founded by fugitive godman Nithyananda. Since its creation, Kailasa has attempted to gain legitimacy on the world stage, with its representatives attending a UN meeting in 2023 and posing for photographs with international leaders. However, Bolivias government has now declared its agreements null and void, deporting those involved to their respective home countries, including India, the United States, Sweden, and China. Bolivia does not maintain diplomatic relations with the alleged nation United States of Kailasa," the countrys Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, according to The New York Times . The controversy dates back to 2024, when Kailasa representatives approached the indigenous Baure community in Bolivia, offering assistance with forest fire management. In return, they negotiated access to land three times the size of New Delhi, promising the Baure group nearly $200,000 annually under what was initially presented as a 25-year lease. However, as The New York Times reported, the true terms of the agreement were far more extremegranting Kailasa control for 1,000 years and allowing rights over airspace and natural resource extraction. We made the mistake of listening to them. They offered us that money as an annual bonus for conserving and protecting our territory, but it was completely false," Baure leader Pedro Guasico was quoted as saying. Kailasa claims to be the worlds first sovereign Hindu nation, founded by Nithyananda as a refuge for Hindus facing persecution. According to its website, it is governed by the Hindu Adi Shaivite minority community and is dedicated to reviving an "authentic" Hindu civilisation. The website further asserts that Kailasa has a population of 100 million Adi Shaivite Hindus and two billion practising Hindus worldwide. Its official languages are English, Sanskrit, and Tamil, and it follows Sanatana Hindu Dharma as its state religion. Kailasas stated goals include promoting a temple-based lifestyle, universal free healthcare, free education, vegetarianism, gender equality, and environmental sustainability. It also claims to advocate for the integration of yoga, meditation, and the gurukul education system into daily life. Despite its grand claims, Kailasa has no recognised territory or international legitimacy. Its efforts to forge diplomatic tiesincluding sending letters to mayors and engaging with UN forumshave been widely criticised as attempts to legitimise a nation that does not formally exist. Born Rajashekharan in Tamil Nadu, Nithyananda rose to prominence in the early 2000s after establishing an ashram near Bengaluru. His teachings, influenced by the spiritual philosophies of Osho Rajneesh, gained him a devoted following. However, his reputation was marred by a series of criminal allegations. In 2010, a video of him in a compromising position with an actress went viral, leading to his arrest on rape charges. He was later accused in a separate case of sexual assault and child abduction. Fleeing India in 2019, Nithyananda resurfaced as the self-proclaimed head of Kailasa, presenting it as a sanctuary for Hindus worldwide. He has since made repeated, though largely unsuccessful, attempts to gain recognition for his "nation" on the global stage. The latest crackdown in Bolivia raises further questions about Kailasas legitimacy and operations. With its representatives arrested and deported, and its land deals nullified, the future of Nithyanandas so-called nation remains uncertain. While its website continues to proclaim ambitious goals, international authorities are increasingly scrutinising its activities. Justin Baldoni has urged a judge to reject Ryan Reynolds motion to dismiss a $400 million defamation lawsuit. Justin Baldoni has urged a judge to reject Ryan Reynolds motion to dismiss a $400 million defamation lawsuit Arguing the Deadpool actor was a key player in an alleged smear campaign. Justin, 41, and his company, Wayfarer Studios, filed a legal response on Tuesday (01.04.25) April that has just now come to light, insisting Ryan, 48, should not be removed from the lawsuit. The filing, submitted to Judge Lewis J. Liman, argued: The FAC specifically alleges ample facts to support the Wayfarer Parties claims against him, based on both his direct actions and his liability as a co-conspirator. The legal dispute stems from allegations made by Ryans wife, Blake Lively, 37, against Justin. Blake, who starred alongside Baldoni in It Ends With Us, sued the filmmaker in December 2024, alleging sexual harassment and a retaliatory smear campaign. Baldoni has denied the claims and countersued for defamation and extortion. A spokesperson for Ryan responded on Wednesday (03.04.25), stating: They once again claim defamation without alleging who was defamed, what specifically was said, or how anyone suffered actual harm. The spokesperson added: Unlike Mr Baldoni, who built his brand pretending to be a man who is confident enough to listen to the women in his life, Ryan Reynolds actually is that man and he will continue to support his wife. Ryans legal team, led by Mike Gottlieb and Esra Hudson, first sought to dismiss the lawsuit in March, arguing Justins case appears to be based on Mr Reynolds allegedly privately calling Mr Baldoni a predator, but heres the problem that is not defamation unless they can show that Mr Reynolds did not believe that statement to be true. Justins lawyer, Bryan Freedman, dismissed Ryans motion to dismiss, claiming: His fingerprints have been all over this smear campaign against Justin and the Wayfarer team since day one. Justins latest filing referenced a comment made by Ryan at a press conference in July 2024. It was: Ive realised that Im too big to fail at this point, so I just crush my enemies and drink their blood. The remark, made as a joke during a discussion with Hugh Jackman, was cited in an effort to illustrate Justins claims. Meanwhile, Blake has also filed a motion to dismiss Justins countersuit, describing it as vengeful and rambling. Justins legal team has called her motion abhorrent. The trial is scheduled to begin in March 2026. While David Letterman is renowned for being one of the best talk show hosts of the 20th century, he doesnt seem to get much acclaim for his acting skills. Although, in retrospect, the Academy really dropped the ball by not recognizing his work in that one scene from Cabin Boy. But apparently, Letterman came surprisingly close to landing a role in an upcoming film by one of the most acclaimed filmmakers working today: Wes Andersons The Phoenician Scheme. How did the man behind Stupid Pet Tricks nearly end up in a movie starring Emma Stone, Tom Hanks, Scarlett Johansson and Jeffrey Wright? Well, he simply asked. Letterman recently guested on The Adam Buxton Podcast, and revealed that hes a massive fan of comedian, writer and filmmaker Richard Ayoade. I found him via YouTube and happily researched everything I could find video-wise that he was part of, Letterman explained. And (I) just fell in love with the guy. Don't Miss Letterman even watched every episode of Garth Marenghis Darkplace twice, because, as he told Buxton, the first time through I was just puzzled. Also Im very fond of (Ayoade) just as a guy, Letterman continued. Now Ive only spent time with him once, but I cherish that. And (Im) constantly trying to find ways to manipulate myself into his life. And I had a pretty good shot. Advertisement Advertisement That shot, it turns out, was Andersons film, which features both Ayoade and Anderson regular Bill Murray, who just so happens to be one of Lettermans old pals. Letterman called up Murray and told him that he was about to shoot a movie with his friend, Richard Ayoade. And I dont really have the right to introduce myself as his friend, Letterman admitted, but Bill doesnt know. Letterman was so obsessed with hanging out with Ayoade that he wanted a small background part for himself, just so he could be on set. Would you talk to Wes Anderson? Letterman asked Murray. I would like to be in this movie. While Letterman acknowledged that his actions were pathetic, Murray agreed to look into it. A month later, the Groundhog Day star told Letterman that after he asked Anderson about the idea, he couldnt stop smiling. Letterman took that as a good sign. So now I think, Oh, this is great. Itll be me, itll be Bill Murray and itll be Richard Ayoade in Berlin. I mean, lets go, lets make that movie. Unfortunately, Lettermans wife became ill, and he was therefore unable to go to Berlin. Advertisement Thankfully, Anderson didnt rub salt into Lettermans wound by casting Jay Leno in his place. One negative review for the recently remounted Glengarry Glen Ross has Comedy Twitter angrier than Bill Burr when ESPN promotes the WNBA. The revival of David Mamets lauded 1983 stage play Glengarry Glen Ross at the Palace Theatre in New York starring Kieran Culkin, Michael McKean, Bob Odenkirk and Burr has, so far, garnered mixed reviews from the critical community that dutifully covers the world of Broadway theatre. A production of a play as popular as Mamets magnum opus will naturally attract extra scrutiny, especially one that features a cast thats almost entirely made up of A-listers from film and television, including one newcomer to dramatic theater whose fandom shares his short temper when it comes to hand-wringing, pearl-clutching and any call for increased political correctness in popular culture. Don't Miss Earlier this week, The Daily Beasts Tim Teeman tore apart the Burr-starred Glengarry Glen Ross in his review of the production, focusing the majority of his criticism on the characters casual racism and taking multiple diversions to add his own thoughts on the fraught American political landscape. While the Burr-lovers of Twitter have taken most criticism of Glengarry Glen Ross in stride, Teemans moralizing condemnation of the characters cultural insensitivity has them acting like Burr did when the entire city of Philadelphia pissed him off: In fairness to Teeman and his distaste for Glengarry Glen Ross as a whole, most Twitter users who are currently going viral for mocking his critique that characters whom Mamet intentionally wrote as flawed and unlikeable have racist tendencies either dont understand or willingly ignore Teemans main criticism about the audiences reaction to the show. While those of us with developed media literacy understand that were not supposed to find the cutthroat and coarse real estate agents of Glengarry Glen Ross to be charming, sympathetic and morally upright protagonists, the audience also isnt supposed to laugh along with them when they express their disdain for Indian-Americans. Advertisement At the same time, there is, of course, a huge difference between portraying racism and endorsing racism, and a piece of theatre doesnt need to have a heroic woke-scold come out on stage and correct the racist characters language for an intelligent audience member to understand that the racists arent the good guys. Teemans biggest problem with Glengarry Glen Ross is textual, as he clearly doesnt think that Mamet punished his miserable, greedy, thieving capitalists enough for the crime of being problematic. Teemans review isnt really a theatre review, its a complaint that, by 2025 standards, Glengarry Glen Ross isnt sensitive enough toward marginalized groups, and hes right. Thats the point of the play nobody in the show is a good person, because the capitalist system under which they scheme and toil is itself morally bankrupt. Whatever Teeman wants to say about the LGBTQ+ community and anti-trans legislation simply doesnt belong in whats supposed to be a review of form and technique in the medium of drama. Advertisement And, hey, if Glengarry Glen Ross didnt have any anti-boss hate, then Burrs fans would have demanded refunds. As of this week, its officially been 50 years since Monty Python and the Holy Grail first hit theaters. While some Python fans may choose to celebrate this milestone by paying nearly $300 to ask John Cleese questions about the production after watching the movie for the billionth time, heres another idea: Why not visit the castle where much of The Holy Grail was filmed? The building itself dates back to the 14th century, as The Daily Telegraph recently reported, but Scotlands Doune Castle has fully embraced the fact that its become a tourist destination for Monty Python obsessives who are eager to visit the spot where King Arthur was taunted by an outrageous French soldier. Play Doune Castle wasnt actually the Pythons first choice for a filming location. Wed picked all these wonderful castles, Terry Jones explained in Monty Python Speaks: The Complete Oral History, and then two weeks before we were due to start filming we suddenly got this letter from the Department of the Environment of Scotland saying we couldnt use any of their castles. Apparently, the organization believed that the project was inconsistent with the dignity of the fabric of the buildings. Don't Miss Luckily, Doune Castle was privately owned at the time, and the shoot was okayed at the last minute. As a result of the snafu, Doune Castle had to play several different castles, including Castle Anthrax and Camelot. Per The Telegraph, the Doune Castle gift shop currently sells copies of the Holy Grail screenplay and coconut shells for fans looking to re-enact scenes from the film. They were even selling Python merch back when Jones and Michael Palin visited the castle for a 2001 documentary. Advertisement And the castles audio guide for visitors is narrated by Jones and Terry Gilliam, who co-directed The Holy Grail together. In addition to sharing anecdotes about the production, they also offer a lesson on Dounes long history, featuring overnight stays by both Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Presumably that portion of the tour contains less stories about Cleese being a pain in the butt. Advertisement Advertisement Its perhaps no surprise that the castle would cater to Holy Grail enthusiasts. In 2005, The Guardian reported that around a third of the castles visitors were Python fans, which inspired Historic Scotland to create a special Monty Python Day in Doune. And its not like Monty Python and the Holy Grail was the only big budget production that ever filmed at Doune; the 1952 Elizabeth Taylor movie Ivanhoe utilized the historic castle, but they never hosted an Ivanhoe Day. More recently, the castle has appeared in episodes of Outlander and Game of Thrones. Advertisement Weirdly, the Game of Thrones episode in which a character literally says "your mother was a hamster, and your father smelled of elderberries in Low Valyrian wasnt filmed at Doune Castle. US President Donald Trump has summarily fired Gen. Timothy D. Haugh, head of the US National Security Agency (NSA) and US Cyber Command (Cybercom), along with Haughs civilian deputy, Wendy Noble. The firing of these top intel leaders took place at the instigation of Laura Loomer, a controversial right-wing influencer noted for her embrace of conspiracy theories and advocacy of anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim positions. Loomer boasted about the firing of Haugh. In a post on X, she wrote, NSA Director Tim Haugh and his deputy Wendy Noble have been disloyal to President Trump. That is why they have been fired. As a Biden appointee, General Haugh had no place serving in the Trump admin given the fact that he was HAND PICKED by General Milley, who was accused of committing treason by President Trump. Why would we want an NSA Director who was referred to Biden after being hand selected by Milley, who told China he would side with them over Trump!?!? Sean 'Diddy' Combs is facing two new charges in his sex trafficking case. Sean 'Diddy' Combs is facing new charges The 55-year-old rap star - who is due to go on trial in the sex trafficking case in May - is now facing one more count each of sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. The new charges relate to Combs' second accuser. The indictment - which has been obtained by PEOPLE - alleges that Combs "recruited, enticed, harboured, transported, provided, obtained, advertised, maintained, patronised and solicited [Victim-2], and attempted, aided and abetted, and willfully caused [Victim-2], to engage in commercial sex acts, knowing and in reckless disregard of the fact that Victim-2 was engaging in commercial sex acts as a result of force, fraud, and coercion". Combs' legal team has responded to the new charges by insisting that their client and his accusers were "involved in consensual relationships". In a statement given to PEOPLE, Combs' attorneys said: "These are not new allegations or new accusers. These are the same individuals, former long-term girlfriends, who were involved in consensual relationships. "This was their private sex life, defined by consent, not coercion." In March, Combs pleaded not guilty to federal charges of forced labour. The music mogul appeared in court in Manhattan to face allegations that he forced some of his employees to work long hours on minimal sleep. The record producer - who is currently being held at Brooklyns Metropolitan Detention Center as he awaits trial - has also been accused using physical, financial, or reputational harm, or threats, to exploit his ex-employees. Combs denied the allegations. The hip-hop star - who is the founder of the Bad Boys record label - is also facing charges of sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution. The rap star appeared in court in September to plead not guilty to the charges. Asked during a court hearing how he pleaded to the charges, Combs replied: "Not guilty." Marc Agnifilo - Combs' lawyer - subsequently said that the music star is determined to "establish his innocence". Agnifilo told reporters outside the court: "He's going to fight this. He's innocent. He came to New York to establish his innocence. "We believe in him wholeheartedly. He didn't do these things. There's no coercion and no crime." Combs is "not afraid of the charges" he's facing, according to his lawyer. Agnifilo added: "He's been looking forward to this day, and he's been looking forward to clearing his name." 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. Trade war having erupted overnight, the Commons gathered after breakfast to inspect the damage. We had taken a wallop in the first bombardment from the USS Donald Trump; but as MPs emerged from shelters and the Speakers secretary dispensed Band-Aids and tin mugs of sugared tea, there was a consolation: the EU had copped it worse. The Berlaymont building, HQ of the European Commission, was said to resemble Tintern Abbey post-Henry VIII. Ursula von der Leyen was in an eye patch, Guy Verhofstadts centre parting was quite ruined and Emmanuel Macrons pantalon had been blown off, betraying a frilly thong. Any temptation to have a good laugh was, please, to be resisted. The EU may have been vindictively unhelpful to us (and indeed to its own fortunes) since Brexit but this was no time to dust down the gramophone and play Noel Cowards Dont Lets Be Beastly To The Germans. That, anyway, was the message from Prince Michael of Kent, who was standing at the despatch box. Donald Trump announced baseline tariffs of 10 per cent on Wednesday A quick rub of the glasses showed that it was not His Royal Highness but was in fact Jonathan Reynolds, the Trade Secretary, a Christian soul and not one to gloat. Not in public, anyway. Who knows how much mirth there was in Downing Street when the Trump tariffs were announced on Wednesday night? Westminsters day began with the nasal knight holding a No 10 breakfast meeting with business leaders. His initial inclination to stride downstairs in battle fatigues was averted only by an ever-alert Lady Starmer, who may regard her husbands recent militarism without much appetite. It was therefore a soberly suited Sir Keir who told the business leaders we move now to the next part of our plan, adding, I want to be crystal clear: we are prepared. With that he harpooned a vegan sausage and got stuck into his nosebag. A trade army marches on its stomach. Both the PM and Mr Reynolds talked of the effect of tariffs on British workers and the pound in their pocket. Awkwardly this echoed Harold Wilsons infamous pound in your pocket broadcast after devaluation in 1967. Sir Keir Starmer hosts a meeting with business leaders at No 10 following the news In the Commons the most aggression came from those insatiable warmongers, the Lib Dems and Greens. Sir Ed Daveys lot were positively jingoistic, encouraging Mr Reynolds to get up and at the Trumpies and give em a few inches of cold Sheffield steel. The battle charge was led by Daisy Cooper, Lib Dem deputy leader. Think of her as the Georgy Zhukov to Sir Eds J.V. Stalin, except that Marshal Zhukov never, so far as I know, wore white gym shoes and a teal trouser suit. Mr Reynolds and his Tory shadow, Andrew Griffith, were more calm, although Mr Griffith nearly breached the no smirking about Brussels rule when he claimed that last night was a vindication of those who were pilloried and abused for supporting Brexit. Cue Tory hear-hears and theatrical disgust from the Lib Dems and some on the Labour benches. Dame Emily Thornberry (Lab, Islington S), whose new black suit lends her the air of a widow in Vichy France think Simone Signoret in her later years was acidic about Brexit and Boris Johnson. Stella Creasy (Lab, Walthamstow), likewise, wanted the Government now to leap into bed with the EU. Publicity-prone Stella deplored those who celebrated that we had only been hit by a 10 per cent tariff. Mr Reynolds declined to play along with her party politics and stated that no one was celebrating the trade hostilities. See? I told you he was a good bloke. A new Conservative MP, Alison Griffiths (Bognor Regis), flew into a tirade that Mr Reynolds had dithered and delayed over meeting Trump administration officials. Mr Reynolds told her politely but firmly that she was talking rubbish. He implored her to take a more serious approach. Some Tories seemed to agree with him. To adapt slightly the last words of Prince Michael of Kents grandfather, George V, the minister was saying bugger off, Bognor. All Britons know that when our fellow countrymen start a sentence With great respect..., they mean that they think the person theyre speaking to is a prize idiot who is talking pure rubbish. More literal-minded foreigners, on the other hand, often find such hollow civilities confusing. They believe were telling the unvarnished truth when we insist that we feel great respect for those who disagree with us. In the same way, they think we really are craving forgiveness when we say I beg your pardon (with the stress on the word beg). In fact, of course, were saying were annoyed, and that you should be apologising to us for something youve said or done. Oh, God, dad, youre so boring! I beg your pardon? So great are these misunderstandings, apparently, that an English language exam-setting institution, which awards qualifications to foreign students, has published a survey of 2,000 Britons, identifying the misleadingly polite phrases we most commonly use to disguise our feelings of resentment, frustration or annoyance. Confrontation Top of the list, compiled for Trinity College London, was the question: Ooh! Could I just squeeze past you?. Cited by 48 per cent of respondents, this translates as: Get out of my way! Next, at 45 per cent, came: Sounds fun, Ill let you know. Translation: Im not interested. Count me out. Others include: No rush, whenever you have a minute (please hurry up); Ill bear it in mind (Ill forget about this immediately); and I hear what you say (I completely disagree with you). Meanwhile, almost three quarters of those polled (72 per cent) believe that using polite phrases was a distinctively British trait. And they could well be right. Ben Beaumont, head of English language teacher strategy at the college, says: Polite-isms are a fascinating feature of communication, used extensively in the UK, and often reflecting our preference to be indirect to avoid confrontation. But theyre actually not a new trend. Weve been using them for thousands of years. There are even examples of polite-isms in the Old English classic Beowulf, which was composed between the 7th and 9th centuries. By the 14th century, he said, the use of polite language in order to rebuke was so common in English literature that Geoffrey Chaucer parodied it in his The Canterbury Tales. I had a classic exchange of British polite-isms with an aggressive-looking down-and-out who asked me if I had a 'spare' cigarette, Tom Utley recalls What is certainly true is that the people at Trinity College are by no means the first to warn non-native speakers that they shouldnt always take Britons expressions of politeness at face value. Back in the 1990s, the author Nannette Ripmeester, of Expertise in Labour Mobility, wrote a translation guide for the benefit of senior managers from Britain and the Netherlands who wanted to understand each other fully. Under the headings What the British Say, What the British Mean and What the Dutch Understand, she listed phrases that commonly cause confusion between businessmen from our two nations. For example, when the British say Perhaps you could give this some more thought?, what they mean is: Dont do it. Its a bad idea. But the Dutch understand it to mean: I should work on it. Similarly, when a Briton says Thats a very brave proposal, he means: You are insane. But the Dutch think it means: He thinks I have courage. Wretched Now, if even those brilliant linguists, the Dutch, have trouble understanding what we mean by our polite-isms, just think how baffled other nationals must be when we tell these little white lies on average, apparently, no fewer than 14 times a day. Certainly, I tell them all the time. Every day of my life, I say Im so sorry to people who bump into me in the street as they stare at their wretched smartphones. Or I tell my wife it couldnt matter less when she confesses to her latest atrocity, such as scratching my beloved car or binning my favourite sweater. (OK, perhaps it had seen better days, before the moths got at it, but it still had a good many years left in it.) Indeed, only a moment ago, when I nipped out of the office for my habitual gasper between paragraphs, I had a classic exchange of British polite-isms with an aggressive-looking down-and-out who asked me if I had a spare cigarette. Ill pay for it, he lied, as he groped for a coin in his empty pockets. Its my pleasure, I lied, struggling to suppress a scowl as I handed him a precious Marlboro Red to avoid the inevitable torrent of abuse if I said no. Thanks. Have a nice day, he snarled in passive aggression, as he shambled off. Translation: I hope you rot in hell, you pampered bastard in a city suit. Ive even been known to write back to readers, thanking them profusely for sending me 800 pages of their conspiracy theories, saying I much look forward to reading them in full when I have a moment. Not very truthful, perhaps. But does our habit of telling white lies mean were a nation of mealy-mouthed hypocrites, too abject to say what we really think? Or is it, as I believe, the mark of a mature civilisation that we try so hard to avoid giving offence to our fellow human beings? I mean, think of the gratuitous animosity we would spread if we always said precisely what we meant instead of dressing it up in polite-isms. Hollow Instead of saying Goodness! Is that the time?, what if we came right out and said what we thought: Im bored to tears, and I cant stand it here any longer. What if we just said Youre clearly incredibly thick, instead of using a formula such as: Im sorry. Perhaps I didnt explain this properly. Lets face it, they mean much the same thing. Its just that the latter hurts a little less. No, give me polite-isms any day, rather than the painful truths favoured by more plain-speaking cultures. When you want me to go away, say: Well, I mustnt keep you. Dont tell me you hope youll never see me again. Just say: We must have lunch one day. Ill know what you mean. Indeed, we can all think of scores of examples of phrases we use to soften a blow: Not a criticism, just an observation; Im very sorry, but Ill have to let you go; That may be true up to a point; I hate to nag; That sounds all very well in principle... Hollow though they may be, in my book such courtesies speak volumes for a society in which most of us still consider the feelings of others. All right, we British may be too polite to be wholly honest. But would you really prefer it if we were too wholly honest to be polite? Not I. Of course, you may well disagree with me. If so: With great respect, I hear what you say. Ministers were yesterday urged to thank the previous government for 'getting Brexit done', after Donald Trump levied tariffs on UK goods at only half the level imposed on the EU. Shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith said the President's decision to put the UK on the minimum 10 per cent tariff was a 'vindication of those who were pilloried and abused for wanting our country to have the freedom to decide our own trade policy'. The EU was hit by a 20 per cent tariff, and Downing Street yesterday acknowledged the lower rate could save 'thousands of jobs'. A No 10 source said the 'lower levy... matters because the difference between 10 per cent and 20 per cent is thousands of jobs'. Mr Griffith said Labour ministers should 'have the decency to regret the 48 times they voted to stay in Europe and to thank us for getting Brexit done'. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds acknowledged it was 'good we can set our own trade policy' after leaving the EU but said it was 'time to try and unite the country about the future rather than always harbour back to the past'. Sebastian Gorka, an assistant to Mr Trump, admitted Britain's lower rate reflected the fact the UK left the EU a campaign Mr Trump backed in 2016. Mr Gorka told BBC's Newsnight: 'After Brexit, you've reaffirmed your independence, and I think that is being proven... by the special rate that has been afforded to the UK.' Shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith said Donald Trump's levying of tariffs on UK goods at only half the level imposed on the EU was a 'vindication' on Brexit Sebastian Gorka, an assistant to Donald Trump, admitted Britain's lower rate reflected the fact the UK left the EU a campaign the President backed in 2016 Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said Brexit had 'left us in a stronger position on trade' And Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said Brexit had 'left us in a stronger position on trade', adding: 'We now have an independent trade policy but this only works if it is used properly by people who know what they're doing.' Former home secretary Suella Braverman said: 'Never forget that when we fought to leave the protectionist EU, the Remainer establishment threatened us with economic doom. 'Now thanks to our hard-won trade freedoms, we are shielded from the punitive 20 per cent tariffs imposed on the EU and can use our advantage to work towards a deal with the US.' But Remainer MPs urged ministers to cosy up to Brussels. Stella Creasy, of the Labour Movement for Europe, blasted: 'Celebrating a tariff of 10 per cent rather than 20 per cent is like celebrating that when you got mugged, they only took your wallet and not your watch as well.' And Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper called on ministers to form an 'economic coalition of the willing' with the EU and countries such as Canada and Australia to co-ordinate retaliation. Mr Reynolds said the Government would not choose between dealing with the EU or US. But the European Commission is already working on a retaliatory package. Its trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic insisted: 'We won't stand idly by, should we be unable to reach a fair deal.' Russell Brand has been charged with rape, sexual assault and indecent assault. Russell Brand has been charged by the Metropolitan Police The 49-year-old comedian has been charged by the Metropolitan Police in London, which has alleged that Brand assaulted four separate women between 1999 and 2005. Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is leading the investigation, said in a statement: "The women who have made reports continue to receive support from specially trained officers. "The Mets investigation remains open and detectives ask anyone who has been affected by this case, or anyone who has any information, to come forward and speak with police. "A dedicated team of investigators is available via email at [email protected]. Support is also available by contacting the independent charity Rape Crisis." The Metropolitan Police began making investigations after receiving allegations from a number of women. The Sunday Times and The Times newspapers, as well as Channel 4's 'Dispatches', also revealed multiple serious allegations against Brand back in 2023. The police subsequently interviewed Brand a number of times, and recently wrote to the comedian to inform him that he was being charged with rape, indecent assault and sexual assault. Jaswant Narwal, a barrister and prosecutor at the Crown Prosecution Service, said in a statement: "We carefully reviewed the evidence after a police investigation into allegations made following the broadcast of a Channel 4 documentary in September 2023. "We have concluded that Russell Brand should be charged with offences including rape, sexual assault and indecent assault." Brand has been ordered to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on May 2. However, the comedian has already taken to social media to deny the allegations. Brand - who is married to author and illustrator Laura Brand - said in a video posted on X: "What I never was, was a rapist. I've never engaged in non-consensual activity." The stand-up star has also claimed that he's looking forward to defending himself in court. Brand - who has developed a huge following on his YouTube channel in recent years - said: "I'm now going to have the opportunity to defend these charges in court and I'm incredibly grateful for that." This Labour Government is in many ways ghastly and useless. But it is not often that Starmer comes up with something so crass that I push aside the breakfast table, hurl the paper at the far wall and run around the room pant-hooting with incontinent rage. Who does he think he is, telling teachers what TV programmes to show the kids? According to the BBC and if you cant believe the BBC, what can you believe? Starmer has personally mandated every classroom in the land to have formal showings of a four-part TV drama called Adolescence. This is supposedly because of the hit shows harrowingly accurate depiction of everyday life among British teenagers. In making this announcement with full prime ministerial authority amid the ancient solemnity of the Cabinet Room, Keir Starmer has perfectly encapsulated the fundamental flatulence of the Government, and its emetic finger-wagging mixture of humbug and wokery. By encouraging this TV programme on schools in class time! the Government is also showing its cruel indifference to the real educational needs of children today. In case you havent watched Adolescence I can save you the bother. Its tosh well-acted tosh. Like millions across the country, I sat down to watch it with high expectations. Its about a 13-year-old boy who kills a girl because of stuff he has been watching on the internet. The thesis of Adolescence, I gathered, was that pubescent males across the land were at risk of being turned into misogynist psychopaths, unable to cope with the slightest romantic rebuff. They may be getting good grades. They may look as though butter wouldnt melt in their mouth. But leave them alone with their laptops, in the darkness of their bedrooms, and they can be driven to mayhem because there are evil online influencers out there, who have become adept at persuading these young males that in the event of the slightest difficulty with girls the fault lies not with them, or their acne, but with the entire female sex. The thesis of Adolescence, starring Stephen Graham, was that pubescent males across the land were at risk of being turned into misogynist psychopaths So, I watched, agog, in the hope that this peculiar phenomenon would be explained; and it is on precisely this point, I am afraid, that the drama collapses. We see some terrific performances: by the young kid, by his family. We certainly believe in his emotional disturbance, and in his parents tragic attempt to come to terms with what he has done. But as for exactly why he went so crackers, or what it was that he saw on the internet we havent a clue. There is a simple reason for this weakness. The story is not true. Its not based on real life. Pressed on the point, the dramas author admitted that it was a sort of composite of stories in which pathetic and resentful young boys were alleged to have attacked girls. But who? What? Why? Where? When? We are not told. The whole deceit makes me angry, because far from being a must-watch, Adolescence is essentially irrelevant to the problem of teenage knife crime in schools. Yes, I am afraid kids do stab each other, but overwhelmingly the perpetrators and victims are young males (over 90 per cent of victims, to go by hospital admissions), and unlike the teenage couple in this drama, the victims and perpetrators are disproportionately young black males. Even if the syndrome identified in Adolescence were widespread even if our schools were awash with knife-wielding incels individuals, usually male, who are unable to find a sexual partner and are therefore involuntarily celibate I doubt that you will achieve anything positive by getting children to watch a shudder-making story about it. In my experience all such drama-based initiatives tend to glamourise knife crime in the minds of young people, and to infuse a basically nasty and humdrum event with a bogus Romeo-and-Juliet melodrama. In case you havent watched Adolescence I can save you the bother. Its about a 13-year-old boy, played by Owen Cooper, who kills a girl because of stuff he has been watching online As a deterrent, these dramatisations just dont work. If you want to tackle knife crime, then the Government needs to come down hard on the gangs, lock up people for going equipped with a bladed weapon, and above all back up the police. The police have the power to stop and search, and they should be encouraged to use it. That was what we did in London from 2008-2016, and we saw steep falls in the incidence both of knife crime and murder. If you want to get tough on knife crime, then get tough on knife crime and dont waste the time of both teachers and pupils with a load of sermonising twaddle about sexism. But then what can you expect from Labour a Government that is obsessed with imposing Lefty political correctness on every classroom in the land? Starmers Labour is way to the Left of Blair and is now destroying the long-established and successful consensus about the way schools should be run. As with the disastrous public sector pay awards, Starmer has given into the unions cravenly accepting their demand that you can only be a teacher in this country if you have emerged from one of the generally Leftist teacher-training colleges. This is imposing a pointless and destructive restriction on academic freedom, and the ability of good heads to recruit the talent they need. Why do you think the Tory years saw Britain shoot up the global league tables for literacy and numeracy? Because the academy system gave schools the freedom to innovate, and to drive up standards not least with the all-powerful and eternal incentive of competition between kids. Labour hates all that, of course. They want schools back under the control of politicians, preferably Lefties. They want an end to academic competition and a return to a world where all must have prizes. They arent interested in equality of opportunity. They want equality of outcome. They want levelling-down. Though many Lefties turn out to have gone to fee paying schools (like Starmer himself), they are now driving those schools out of existence taxing them so exorbitantly that more than 20 schools have already closed this year or are in the process of doing so, and another 100 are expected to follow. How much tax are those schools expected to produce, now they have closed? How does it help the national finances to force thousands of parents to put their kids through the state system rather than cover the cost themselves? You can try asking Starmer, or Rachel from Accounts, but its no use. They have no answer. Its nothing to do with economics or saving taxpayers money. Its a policy driven by pure spite, pure Pol Pot dislike of anything that looks like effort or aspiration by the middle classes. They cant see a ladder of opportunity without kicking it down. They have even got rid of the Latin Excellence programme, causing huge disruption and disappointment, mid-course, to kids who were coming to love the subject and restricting Latin ever more tightly to kids (like Starmer) who go to fee-paying schools. What does Starmer prescribe, instead of Latin? A ballsachingly right-on and tendentious TV drama about the alleged causes of teenage male misogyny. Ask yourself: who is really doing more damage to the life chances of teenagers in this country Keir Starmer or the twerpish woman-hating influencer Andrew Tate and I am afraid that the answer is Starmer, by a country mile. If there is anyone getting away with murder in the classroom, it is Labour. Fans have been busy sharing theories on who will die and who will survive Episode eight is set to conclude the third season on Sunday, April 6 The White Lotus season three is just days away from concluding with its eighth and final episode. Ahead of the grand finale, fans have been busy sharing their theories far and wide on how they think the show's creator Mike White will wrap up the all the drama. While it's already confirmed that at least one person will end up dead, viewers have speculated that there will be more fatalities, and have even hazarded guesses at the perpetrator. Following episode one, audiences already know that Belinda's son Zion (Nicholas Duvernay) finds a body floating in the water after hearing multiple gunshots from the hotel. On top of that, hotel employee Pam (Morgana O'Reilly) has mentioned that there is a poisonous fruit close to their lodgings, which the camera has made particular attention to throughout the series. Without further ado, here are the White Lotus season three finale theories taking the internet by storm. Security guard Gaitok is the shooter Could Gaitok open fire on the grounds of the White Lotus in the show's grand finale? Innocent Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) is the security guard at the resort who is desperate to woo fellow worker Mook (Lalisa Manobal) to be his girlfriend. At first Mook seems kind and caring, but as the series unfolds, she continues to put pressure on Gaitok to try and gain a promotion and become a bodyguard to the Hollingers, who own the resort. To impress Mook, he learns how to use a gun. While on a date with Mook, however, Gaitok has a flashback to the heist, in which Valentin distracted him to allow the armed intruders onto the grounds. During this flashback, he realizes that Valentin's (Arnas Fedaravicius) friend Vlad (Yuri Kolokolnikov) was one of the masked assailants. Ahead of the last episode, fans suspect that Gaitok will open fire on the Russians when they return to the White Lotus but will fail to actually hit any of them. Valentin was in on the heist, in which his friends robbed the White Lotus shop Taking to Reddit, one guessed: 'Gaitok will be the shooter. He'll see the Russians at the resort and open fire on them. 'He won't end up hitting anyone and will be fired from his job. He tried to access his "killer instinct" to impress Mook, but he just doesn't have it so he fails in his efforts.' 'What if Gaitok tries to impress Mook with his fighting ability and ends up killing her instead?' another suggested. A third said: 'My theory is the robbers come back and Mook gets caught in crossfire by a more confident but still untrained Gaitok.' 'I think Gaitok will end up killing someone,' another predicted. 'I was rewatching the earlier episodes, and a small scene that caught my eye was Gaitok asking Sritala to be considered if she is looking to hire a new bodyguard. 'I think he wants to prove himself and so something is going to happen that causes Gaitok to step up and use the gun. I can see him shooting Rick to prove himself to Sritala, instead of shooting her current bodyguard.' Rick will die Has Rick placed himself in grave danger? After six episodes, moody Rick (Walton Goggins) finally let out a smile after seeking revenge on the Jim Hollinger (Scott Glenn) in a tense confrontation. Many believe, however, that his display of being at peace is a sure sign that death is coming for him. Viewers already know that Rick is in danger after he conned his way into the Hollinger house with the help of old friend Frank (Sam Rockwell). Adding insult to injury, Jim and his wife, White Lotus owner Sritala (Lek Patravadi), know that Rick and his girlfriend Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood) are guests at their Thailand hotel. 'Rick is finally in peace, he doesn't want to get his revenge anymore and that's why he's going to die,' one theorized. Adding to the theory, another said: 'Yeah, he's going to die/take a bullet for Chelsea... showing his true love for her all along. That's 100 percent happening.' 'I feel like Rick has been acting like it is the last day of his life,' noted a third. Someone on this subreddit pointed out, that before they die the characters of The White Lotus live a very happy last day.' 'I think Rick will die too,' said another. 'They set it up with Chelsea saying constantly saying that 'something terrible is going to happen.' Chelsea has repeatedly mentioned that bad things happen in threes 'Then in the latest episode she said that she represents hope, and he represents despair or something like that.' Others are convinced that Rick's girlfriend Chelsea will be leaving the White Lotus in a body bag, citing her previous bad fortune as evidence. Viewers will remember how earlier in the series she was held up at gunpoint during an armed raid on the hotel's luxury shop. On top of that, Chelsea was also bitten by a snake when Rick decided to free dozens of them during a drug-fueled frenzy. 'Chelsea was quite literally snakebit - an idiom that means 'doomed to misfortune',' one Redditor pointed out. 'Sorry guys, there's not going to be a happy ending with these two.' The 'poisonous' fruit smoothie is just a red herring Many believe the toxic fruit won't do more harm than a little bit of gastro In the first episode of White Lotus's third season, Saxon is intrigued to learn that a tree outside the family villa bears a deadly fruit. The health-conscious brother then requests a blender for the villa so that he can mix up protein smoothies every day. In the newly released trailer for the finale, we see his father Tim quizzing their health mentor, Pam, about the poisonous fruit. She tells him that locals refer to it as 'the suicide tree.' In the next shot we see liquid whirling around Saxon's (Patrick Schwarzenegger) blender. While many suspect that Tim is planning to poison his family with the toxic fruit, others believe that the fruit isn't poisonous at all, and that it's simply just a red herring. 'Why would that resort have poisonous plants/fruits that close to guests' villas?' one Reddit user asked. Agreeing, another said: 'Another red herring. No one will die from pong pong fruit.' 'After seeing next week's trailer, I'm thinking Tim will be doing a failed murder-suicide, resulting in him having to explain himself to his family as they deal with the uncomfortable gastrointestinal effects of the fruit smoothie,' a third wrote. The Ratliff family will remain in Thailand Could the Ratliff family end up staying in Thailand? The dysfunctional Ratcliff family are on the verge of losing everything thanks to patriarch Tim's (Jason Isaacs) fraudulent financial deals. The police and the press back home have uncovered his crimes, and he faces ruin and jail but that could all be resolved if he and his loved ones hide out in Thailand. While the family couldn't be more out of place in the country, not forgetting that matriarch Victoria (Parker Posey) thought she was actually holidaying in Taiwan, some think that they could end up staying out there for good. Sharing their theory on Reddit, one said: 'I think the whole Ratliff family will end up staying with the monks, another ironic twist where Victoria is forced to live in her "cult." 'This season is about karma and spirituality, so there's that. Piper will have the classic monkey's paw situation where she gets what she wanted (to play Buddhist and stick it to mom) but is still stuck with the family she wanted to escape. 'Tim (and possibly Saxon) will actually have a spiritual awakening and become true practitioners of Buddhism.' A woman who was sexually assaulted from the age of seven by her older cousin has revealed her horror at learning her sister had also been horrifically abused 15 years later. Sophie, 26, from County Meath, Ireland, was sexually abused by her older cousin David Hamilton, 33, starting when she was seven and he was 14, between the years of 2005 and 2008. Her older sister, who wishes not to be named, was a victim of rape, oral rape, and sexual assault from the age of ten from 2004 by David. David's older brother, Jonathan, then 14, also raped her after David told him to 'have a go' and sexually assaulted her on one occasion in 2005. David, who pleaded guilty to rape, oral rape, and sexual assault, was given a seven-and-a-half-year sentence, with the last 12 months suspended, on Monday. Jonathan, 34, pleaded guilty to one count of rape and sexual assault of Sophie's older sister and was given a three-year sentence with the final six months suspended. PTSD and anxiety-stricken Sophie has told Femail of her intense feeling of disappointment over what she considers lenient sentences for the men who ruined their lives. 'I feel like David has been given an incredibly lenient sentence', she said, continuing, 'We carry life sentences, both me and my [older] sister, because of his actions, and I just believe that the precedent needs to be set. 'New laws are needed in Ireland to ensure that serious and heinous crimes like this are adequately punished.' Sophie, who, together with her older sister, plans to appeal the court's decision, further claimed members of her family 'ostracised' them after they came forward about the abuse - despite both brothers pleading guilty to what they had done. Sophie (pictured), 25, from County Meath, Ireland, has revealed her experience of sexual abuse from the age of seven at the hands of her older cousin Sophie said she first confided in her older sister and then her mother about the abuses she was facing several years ago, but she only came forward to report the abuse in 2019. 'In 2008, I disclosed to my older sister that I was sexually assaulted by my older cousin David, and my sister encouraged me to tell my mum. 'So, the two of us sat down and told my mum together. My mum, at that point, promised me that she would speak to him, that she would sort it, that it would never be brought up again, and that I had nothing to worry about.' Sophie explained: 'My [older] sister also had been abused by him, but she didn't disclose it to me at that time. 'She basically said in later years when we discussed this, 'I didn't feel like I could come forward right then and there'.' But at the time, Sophie was under the impression that her mother would handle the incident. Sophie, pictured with David (right) and Jonathan (left), has branded her abuser's sentence 'incredibly lenient' David (pictured) was given a seven-and-a-half-year sentence, with the last 12 months suspended Sophie, who now works in childcare, has opened up about her horrific experience now her cousins have been jailed Recalling the situation, Sophie said: 'I just went on with my life. I believed in my head that he had been spoken to, so I just got on with it.' Things took a turn in December 2019 when Sophie, aged 21, moved out of her mother's home to live with her father, who later encouraged her to make a statement. Sophie's decision to go to the police the following year encouraged her older sister, then 26, to confide in her that she had also faced sexual abuse at the hands of a family member. She said: 'I had moved out of our mum's house, and I moved into my dad's house, and in 2020, I disclosed it to my dad, and he encouraged me to make a statement to the garda about what had happened.' 'So, I told them that my sister had experienced abuse as well, I wasn't sure at that point what the level of it was, but within two to three weeks, by the April of 2020, my sister made her statement over the course of seven days, hers was really lengthy.' 'Then the case developed, and it was taken a lot more seriously. At first it was just my word but then it was the two of us, and hers wasn't just sexual assault, it was rape as well.' Police later arrested David and Jonathan, who admitted to instances of sexual assault. 'David was even able to add to my sister's statement about further instances of rape that he could recall, which we had completely etched out of our minds; I think your brain just tries to protect you. Sophie's father encouraged her to make a statement to the police after he learned of the abuses Sophie (pictured during her childhood) is no longer in contact with the maternal side of her family She added: 'That side of the family has completely ostracised us, we've no contact with any of our maternal family at all.' Sophie saw her cousins in court in January, approximately five years after she made her first statement, which was an emotionally strenuous experience. An investigating garda told the prosecution that before David's first offence, when he was 12 and his victim 10, there were instances of inappropriate behaviour while playing, the Journal reported. The garda said the older sister recalled a rape around that time and said she was raped often by David from then onwards, that he forced her to perform oral sex, and that he raped her on holiday. Sophie was sexually abused by David from the age of seven when he was 14, between the years of 2005 and 2008. The court charged Jonathan with one rape and one sexual assault, which took place when he was 14 and involved one child. After undergoing significant trauma in a lengthy and exhausting court battle, Sophie hoped she and her older sister would achieve justice at the very least - but as the brothers' sentences were announced on Monday, they were devastated. David's seven-and-a-half-year sentence and Jonathan's three-year sentence are insufficient for Sophie, who says she and her older sister are serving life sentences for what they endured. Sophie visits a private therapist on a weekly basis, but is struggling to keep up with the costs on her salary 'I think the sentences handed on Monday were incredibly lenient, particularly in the case of David, he raped my sister and abused me, it was almost daily for almost ten years.' Sophie's relatives initially received double their sentences, but because they were underage when the offences took place, the time was cut. 'The lads got 50 per cent of their sentence taken off them straight away because, in the eyes of the law, they were minors at the time,' Sophie said. 'Jonathan was 17 by the time it all finished, and a 17-year-old knows right from wrong. You can't convince me that he didn't know that this wasn't ok.' While David and Jonathan will be out of prison in under a decade, Sophie said she will live with the consequences of their actions forever. She said: 'We're both attending therapy weekly, we both have PTSD, I wake up screaming in the middle of the night with nightmares, I have bad anxiety, I bite my nails and my skin, I make my hands bleed. 'I don't go out late at night when it's dark, I don't go anywhere alone, I don't drink alcohol because I know that I have to keep my wits about me at all times, I don't feel safe anywhere that's not my home to be honest.' She added: 'It's never going to go away and how lenient the sentences are is a complete slap in the face.' The 25-year-old, who works in childcare, is now in a loving relationship with her boyfriend (pictured) After feeling 'completely deflated' when the judge read out the sentences on Monday, Sophie was encouraged to share her story on TikTok in the hopes of resonating with other victims. 'The TikTok was posted and within nine hours it had over one million views and 99 per cent of the comments on it are positive,' she said. Hearing other people's horrified thoughts on her experiences, and with her boyfriend's love and support, Sophie settled on pushing for an appeal. She and her older sister have since written to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) explaining why they believe an appeal is necessary. Sophie has also set up a petition regarding her relative's sentences and a GoFundMe to help provide for their therapy. 'I didn't want anyone to get the wrong idea and think that money was a motive, it's absolutely not,' she said. 'The job I do is not enough to put food on the table, pay our bills, and go through private therapy every week'. Sophie, who works in childcare, visits a private therapist due to the long waitlists elsewhere when she initially sought help five years ago, 'I just didn't have that long, I needed to speak to someone almost immediately,' she said. 'I had hoped that the sentence on Monday would have allowed me to move on with my life now, and that would have been a door kind of shut, and unfortunately, it's not the case because we're disappointed with the turn that it took.' Sophie's GoFundMe page can be found here. Sophie's petition to change David and Jonathan's sentences can be found here. A bride has sparked controversy after sending her wedding guests a 'colour reference sheet', banning them from wearing six shades. A wedding guest, who appears to be from the US, took to the Reddit thread r/bridezillas to complain about the wedding invitation, which was from her cousin. The unnamed guest explained that she has been to 'over 20 weddings over the last ten years' and has has 'never complained about brides wishes' but she found this request to be bizarre. She said the bride-to-be had eliminated 'six colors and two different designs' from her guest's outfit choices and asked others if they would consider it 'appropriate' behaviour. Her post read: 'My cousin just sent out her wedding invitation - she attached a colour reference sheet of what colours were off-limits for guests - Bride has eliminated six colours and two designs. 'And listen, I am no wedding rookie, Ive been in over 20 weddings over the last ten years (*for reference Im in my late 20s, just a lot of family and friends lol). 'And I am also an extremely good sport (NEVER complained about brides wishes and followed exactly what the bride wanted. Unlike a lot of my fellow bridesmaids lol). 'But Ive never seen anything like this. The fact that there are six colours/designs that are off-limits? I could perhaps understand one or two, write it off that she is very type A, and find it almost endearing, but six?! has anyone else seen this?' A woman revealed her cousin sent everyone wedding invites with a 'colour reference sheet' for what colours were 'off-limits for guests' (stock image) The wedding guest later revealed that the banned colours were 'whites, medium blue, peach, light green, salmon pink, light pink, yellow, and all floral patterns that contain pink.' Many rushed to the comments with their own thoughts, with some people saying it all sounded 'exhausting.' One person said: 'Id RSVP no on principle, but if I did attend, Id find the most hideous color combo/pattern I could find that adhered to the guidelines.' Another added: 'I was going to say I'd wear something in the most obnoxious sunflower print I could find since she specifies floral patterns containing pink but yellow is also on the list of forbidden colors.' Someone else wrote: 'At least half the wedding party will look like attending a funeral as without those colours you don't have many options left than using your nice black dress.' A fourth added: 'Shes not a bridezilla!!! Shes a controlling lunatic.' Many suggested her colour scheme could have something to do with Instagram and making the pictures look aesthetically pleasing. One person said: 'The trend these days seems to be that brides want social media perfection in the photos.' A wedding guest, who appears to be from the US, took to the Reddit thread r/bridezillas to complain about the wedding invitation Another said: 'I've heard of it. It's pretty much a sign of Instagram-itis. Where the event has become primarily a photoshoot as compared to an actual event. 'I've seen the list. Honestly, it's a weird pick. I think she's going to end up with a lot of guests wearing either black or navy. 'Also, an outdoor wedding in South Carolina in August? Good God, it's going to be like breathing through a washcloth. I'd seriously consider skipping. This sounds miserable.' It comes after guests at a wedding breakfast were left open-mouthed after the best man dropped a bombshell in his speech. Newlyweds Rachel and Foster, from the US, luckily found the funny side of the awkward situation when their best man Dylan revealed that he and Rachel were dating when she met her now-husband - his best friend. The hilarious clip, which was shared on TikTok by videographer @byjoshandmare, has been liked over 200,000 times as viewers have been left in hysterics over the admission. In the viral video, Dylan explained to wedding guests: 'I just noticed the connection they had, the laughs they shared together, the way they looked at each other. 'And you would think it sounds really romantic, but the only problem was I was dating Rachel at the time.' The whole room erupted into laughter and the bride and groom luckily also found the admission hilarious. On Reddit, people said the strict colour scheme was 'exhausting' (stock image) Many rushed to the comments with mixed views on the honest best man speech, with some saying it looks like he still loves her. One person: 'This is the kind of tea I want when I ATTEND other peoples weddings.' Another said: 'Not him trying to laugh it off, but still hurt.' Someone else wrote: 'Ewwww I do not think this is funny.' A fourth added: 'Him still loving her.....' Meanwhile others questioned whether people could ever be okay with a friend dating an ex-partner. One person wrote: 'May this kind of friendship and this kind of love never find me.' Another said: 'My aunt married her fiance's best friend and theyve been married for 50 years and have two kids and grandkids.' Someone else wrote: 'I would NOT be laughing like everyone in the background is omg.' Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more When it seemed like the world couldn't get more hooked on pistachios, Marks and Spencer released a perfume inspired by the nut. Pistachios are the most coveted, stylish ingredient this season, thanks to the viral Dubai chocolate, ice cream, and the soft, muted colour taking over interiors and homeware. Now, M&S has managed to get the UK in an even tighter chokehold with the nut, which hails from Persia, thanks to the release of its new pistachio-scented perfume. 'It features notes of moreish pistachio, delicate tuberose and warm tonka bean in a generous 100ml bottle,' the retailer's website reads. 'The resulting fragrance is a captivating mix of soft, nutty notes with a touch of floral sweetness.' But it's not just the sweet scent that has shoppers brimming with excitement, but also the reasonable price tag of 10. Sweet Pistachio Eau de Toilette 'It features notes of moreish pistachio, delicate tuberose and warm tonka bean in a generous 100ml bottle,' the retailer's website reads. 'The resulting fragrance is a captivating mix of soft, nutty notes with a touch of floral sweetness. Shop TikTok users have taken to the platform to rave about the item, with influencer Hannah, who goes by @lueurwithhannah, dubbing it the perfect scent for springtime. Elsewhere, @meganmariac racked up over two thousand likes on her video showing her discovery of the perfume while browsing the store's aisles. 'I put money on it that this is the one that's going to sell out', she said. Shoppers have gone wild for Mark and Spencer's pistachio-scented perfume, including UK-based Megan (pictured) The rave reviews didn't stop there. Another content creator, @karen_from_finance_xo, told his followers, 'Don't walk, run to M&S. It smells so good,' in a clip that racked up over 100 thousand views. Meanwhile, London-based influencer Jamie Dear made a special trip to the shop to try out the new scent. Jamie wrote: 'Come to M&S with me to find the new pistachio perfume! As soon as I heard @Marks&Spencer had a viral pistachio perfume, I had to run and treat myself to one! 'You lovelies know how much I love all things pistachio, and this new find excited me! 'I'm all for finding new things to try for Spring / Summer, and if you love sweet, fresh scents, then this is the perfume for you. 'There were also so many other perfumes that I tried and loved and now I'm so ready for Spring. Thank you, M&S, for always being iconic.' London-based content creator Jamie Dear (pictured) made a special trip to M&S to find the new fragrance Emma Holly Morgan (pictured), 29, said she was 'obsessed' with the pistachio perfume from M&S TikTok user Hannah, who goes by @lueurwithhannah, said the fragrance was ideal for springtime After seeing Jamie's video, influencer Emma Holly Morgan, 29, was inspired to hunt down the coveted perfume. 'Ummmmm? OBSESSED! Thank you @JamieDear for getting me on the hype. I am in love,' she said after smelling the green-tinted perfume. Viewers took to the comment section of Jamie's video to share their thoughts, with one writing 'You have influenced me I need to get this!' A second said: 'I have so many M&S perfumes they are the best.' While a third wrote: 'I got the sweet pistachio one a few weeks ago and it's stunning.' Another impressed viewer added: 'M&S have stepped it up recently everything is so good.' It comes after British shoppers have gone into a frenzy over the launch of Dubai chocolate at UK supermarkets, with some queuing up to get their hands on the sweet treat. The milk chocolate bar is filled with crispy knafeh, pistachio cream and tahini spread. Last year, influencers flew across the world to get their hands on it when it was created by Dubai-based Fix Dessert Chocolatier. Now, dozens of confectioners have created their own versions, with Lidl and Waitrose among the supermarkets flogging the chocolate bar in the UK. Viewers took the comment section to share their thoughts on the perfume - and many were impressed Supermarkets are now seeing a rush on Brits trying to get their hands on the bar, and even limiting customers to only buying two bars each. Bingbing, an influencer from London, revealed she headed to her local Lidl at 7.30am on a Saturday morning, to discover a queue outside. Once inside, she said she couldn't find the chocolate, and had to ask for it from a worker who kept it behind the till. 'I can't believe we woke up at 7:30 on a Saturday to queue, but it seems like other people had the same idea,' she explained. 'We arrived around 7.55 and there were about 30 people outside already for the 8am opening.' Bingbing headed to her local Lidl where she saw 'a rush on the chocolate'. 'As soon as the doors opened, everyone just rushed in and no one knew where the chocolate was. 'It retails for 4.99 per bar but if you have the Lidl plus card, it's 3.99 and it's limited to two per person. 'People went crazy for the chocolate bars, they were arguing with staff about the limits. We managed to get two each,' she added. A Tennessee bride-to-be claims she lost thousands of dollars after the wedding venue she booked suddenly closed without telling her. Bonnie Sheridan, 28, began to grow worried when she hadn't heard from the venue as she was planning her big day. On the advice of her wedding planner, she attempted to check in with the owners of the 409 South Main venue. Days later, Jared Welch, a representative for the venue, finally responded in an email that the building was 'in the foreclosure process.' Sheridan said she was 'blown away' by the audacity of the company not informing her - and potentially other brides - of their decision to shut down. 'I got no word,' Sheridan told Fox19. 'I'm blown away by the disrespect that you can do to somebody like that. 'They put so much money into it, because it's not an inexpensive venue, and that's their wedding day. And you didn't even have the decency to tell anybody.' Welch also told Sheridan that 'all bank accounts have been closed', and the owner/investors are 'no longer able to fund the business.' Bonnie Sheridan, 28, said when she went to 'check in' with the luxury venue's owners, months ahead of her special day, a representative for the space told her the building was permanently closed Sheridan said she was 'blown away' by the audacity of the company not informing her - and potentially other brides - of the shocking closure. Pictured: The 409 South Main venue in Memphis, Tennessee He then suggested she 'file a lien out against the building' to get her money back. Social media pages for the venue have not been active since summer 2024. The venue's website is down, along with the venue's phone number. Despite the massive disappointment, Sheridan said she is 'going to move forward.' 'I'm just going to move forward and hopefully something good can come of it,' Sheridan said. 'Hopefully I can reach out to other brides, you know, and just at the end of the day, I know I'm getting married to the person that I love.' Sheridan said she was able to book another venue for her wedding. NBC affiliate, WMC-TV, reported that an incentive loan issued by the Downtown Memphis Commission in 2023 for renovations to 409 South Main Street location - which were expected to be completed in 2025 - was cancelled. An incentive loan issued by the Downtown Memphis Commission in 2023 for renovations to 409 South Main Street location (pictured) - which were expected to be completed in 2025 - was cancelled Despite the massive dissapointment, Sheridan said she is 'going to move forward' and that 'at the end of the day, I know I'm getting married to the person that I love.' Pictured: Bonnie Sheridan and her soon-to-be husband At some point, the building also appears to have been put up for sale. Now, Daniel Irwin with the Better Business Bureau suggests making sure to have something in your contract protecting you if the venue suddenly closes, and avoid paying with a debit card. 'The biggest advice would be to make sure you're paying all your vendors with a credit card because just in case something does happen, you do have a lot more recourse with a credit card than you do any other payment method,' Irwin said. The husband of a popular nursing influencer who died during childbirth says he is comforted by the memory of his wife getting to see their miracle son before she died. Hailey Okula, who was known for inspiring and guiding new nurses through her popular social media platforms, went into cardiac arrest after suffering an amniotic fluid embolism just minutes after her first child was born. Now, in an emotional update, her heartbroken husband Matthew Okula revealed that his wife, whose lifelong dream was to become a parent, was able to see their baby for a split second before she passed away - a memory he will always cherish. 'She was able to see him for a split second, and I'm always going to remember that,' Matthew told Fox11. '[Her death] just came upon me so quickly and unexpectedly.' Hailey, who was 33, gave birth to the pair's first child, a boy named Crew, on Saturday, March 29. But within minutes of welcoming their baby boy, she faced the devastating medical complication post-delivery. 'We both looked at him and [it was] just Hailey's personality. She said a little something because she saw how big he was,' Matthew said recalling the moments before Hailey's passing. 'We had a quick little laugh there, she had a little tear on her face.' The grieving husband said he took his newborn out of the delivery room for 'literally a minute' when Hailey's health took an unexpected turn. 'Me and Crew walked out of the room and they said they were finishing up, she'll be there in a moment,' he said. 'Literally a minute later, the doctor came in and let me know they're doing CPR on her.' Matthew was then faced with an impossible decision: Stay with his wife in ICU or his newborn baby? In an emotional update, the late Hailey Okula's husband, Matthew Okula, said that his wife was able to see their newborn baby boy for a split second before she went into cardiac arrest The grieving husband said he took his newborn out of the delivery room for 'literally a minute' when Hailey's health took an unexpected turn 'I'm making the decision, "Am I going to the ICU with my wife or am I staying with my newborn baby?" Not the decision we thought I'd be making,' he recalled. Matthew said he will always remember Hailey as he now raises Crew as a single parent. 'She wanted to be a mom, so incredibly bad. She never put it on me, and the reality is it's my fertility issues,' Matthew said on Wednesday. 'We found out [at the time and] she grabbed me and said, "We're a team. We're getting through this together." 'I know she would be up there telling me that "You got it, raise this kid, don't baby him too much, make sure you do everything we talked about doing,"' he said through tears. 'She gave her life in the most noble way.' In 2019, Hailey founded her social media-based company, RN New Grads, to support newly graduated nurses, providing information about finding work and launching into a nursing career. Her RN New Grads Instagram account shared vulnerable content as she opened up about her embattled pregnancy journey and the challenges she and her husband faced with infertility and IVF. 'Being able to say that we are pregnant is indescribable,' she wrote in a September 2024 pregnancy announcement. 'From my infertility problems, to my husband's infertility problems, to us having to create a special probe because we both carry the same genetic disease, lotsssss of meds and lots of money, the journey has been hard, but so worth it.' In announcing her death, Matthew reflected on Hailey's strength throughout their journey to parenthood. 'Words can't describe how badly we wanted to be parents,' he wrote. The popular nurse spent the last year sharing her tumultuous journey with infertility and the demands of her job with her 418,000 followers on social media, before her husband shared the gut-wrenching announcement of her passing In 2019, Hailey founded her social media-based company, RN New Grads, to support newly graduated nurses, providing information about finding work and launching into a nursing career 'After years of infertility struggles and a long, challenging IVF process, we were overjoyed to be expecting Crew. Hailey faced every hurdle with so much courage and love - even though her body went through so much, she never wavered.' Many of Hailey's followers have responded to the news of her sudden passing with messages of heartfelt support and anecdotes of how she had touched their lives. 'She was my nurse during one of my toughest hospitalizations,' one user wrote. 'Ill never forget her kindness and quick help.' 'I am truly shocked and heartbroken for your entire family. There are no words,' one commenter wrote. 'Hailey as such a light in this nursing community. She and I messaged back and forth throughout our pregnancies, and I am devastated to hear this news.' 'I cant believe this! She was soooo excited about becoming a new mom,' another commented. 'She even replied to my comment, saying thank you when I told her she was the best content producer for her ER skitsI WILL MISS HER!!!' The Los Angeles Fire Department, where Matthew works as an engineer, also posted an emotional tribute to his late-wife, saying it 'grieves the loss of Mrs. Okula.' Matthew said he is going 'to do everything' he can to keep her business alive, but asked for patience as he 'grieves and recovers.' 'If there are any disputes or questions, I ask for your patience while I grieve and recover - I promise I will work to resolve everything in time. Hailey refused to hire anyone to run her business, partly because were so cheap (lol), but more so because she was beyond passionate about her content. Im going to do everything I can to figure out how to continue this business in her honor.' The pair's life-long dream of becoming parents was finally realized with the arrival of their son, Crew, on March 29, however, things quickly took a turn for the worse when Hailey suffered an amniotic embolism during her C-section delivery A friend of the Okula's, Jason Teter, has since created a GoFundMe page to help support the new dad face the challenges ahead. 'Matt is not one to ask for help - but those who know him, especially his brothers and sisters in the fire service, know the kind of man he is. A man who has dedicated his life to protecting others. Now, it's our turn to protect him,' the description explains. Dedicated to supporting funeral and memorial expenses, household bills and utilities, future baby supplies and childcare, the fundraising effort has raised $327,000 as of Wednesday evening. 'Every dollar raised will give Matt the space he needs to begin the long road to healing and ensure that Crew is surrounded by the love and security Hailey dreamed of for him.' The new series arrived on Disney+ in the UK today It only landed on streaming services this morning, but FX's Dying for Sex, based on the remarkable true story of Molly Kochan, is already a hit. The series, which streams on Disney+ in the UK, stars Michelle Williams as Molly, who embarked on a journey of sexual discovery after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis. The comedy-drama series is based on the life of New-York born Molly, who refused to give up sex after leaving her husband of 15 years after she was diagnosed. Just 42 at the time of her breast cancer diagnosis, molly died in 2019 aged 45 - but she ensured her last years were filled with fun as she explored her sexuality, slept with dozens of men and posted steamy lingerie photos online - determined not to let her diagnosis rob her of her sex appeal. In the series, viewers see Molly dating and exploring her sexuality after being diagnosed with cancer and divorcing her husband. All the while she's supported by her best friend Nikki Boyer (played by Jenny Slate). The show follows Nikki as she steps into the role of Molly's primary support, accompanying her to hospital appointments and offering a steady hand through the whirlwind of painful physical symptoms. The tale of self discovery is largely inspired by stories Molly shared posthumously in the award-winning Wondery podcast, Dying for Sex, which was named one of Apple's favourite podcasts in 2020 and won Podcast of the Year at the Amie Awards in 2021. The new FX series is closely written to the true tale of New-York born Molly, who was first diagnosed with cancer in 2011; before being told in 2015 that she was terminal. Despite being shaken by the news, Molly knew two things - that she didn't want people to start viewing her as a 'victim', and that she didn't want to lose her sex life to cancer. A new series debuting on Disney+ today has documented the true story of Molly Kochan, who refused to give up on sex after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis (the real Molly pictured) Molly had an Instagram account called 'dying for sex' where she would post raunchy lingerie photos (pictured) Molly began sharing her journey on her website, Everything Leads to This, explaining that she had first been diagnosed in 2011 and went through treatments at the time. She initially kept most people in the dark about her diagnosis, writing on the blog that she 'liked not identifying with the disease'. 'I liked going through treatment and not having people ever ask me how I was feeling as though I were more fragile than they are,' she added. Then in 2015, Molly was re-diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer having already undergone chemotherapy, a bilateral mastectomy, radiation therapy and a breast reconstruction. Two and a half years after receiving the news, Molly decided to go public as it became increasingly difficult to keep it under wraps. She wrote: 'Holding on to the secret of what I was going through became more difficult than having to field potentially awkward reactions.' Molly revealed the details of her diagnosis in a Facebook post, explaining that she hadn't wanted people to see her as a 'patient or as cancer'. 'Because I have navigated this for some time, I know what is helpful to me and what isn't.' The comedy-drama series, called Dying for Sex, is based on the life of New-York born Molly, played by Michelle Williams , who embarks on a journey of sexual discovery after being diagnosed with terminal cancer and leaving her husband of 15 years (Michelle Williams pictured playing the role) After receiving the devastating news, the 42-year-old begins dating and exploring her sexuality, all alongside the support of her best friend, Nikki Boyer, played by Jenny Slate in the series (Nikki pictured left) After being given the terminal diagnosis, Molly was adamant that she didn't want to give up on sex and was determined to use her remaining days to explore that side of herself. She ended up going on a full dating extravaganza and ended up sleeping with 200 men. She continued to share on her blog up until her death, documenting the 'parallel journeys through stage IV cancer and sexuality, the exploration of which has not only kept me life-facing, but has been a tool in my integrating and loving my new body.' She described how 'acts around sex have connected me to my body and to life'. Part of exploring her body also meant sharing pictures. Molly had an Instagram account called 'dying for sex' where she would post raunchy lingerie photos. In her podcast, which was released posthumously, Molly shared the unlikely impact hormone therapy had on her. Though most experience a drastic reduction in libido, it had the opposite effect on Molly, who said it left her wanting to 'hump everything and everyone that I saw,' in one episode of the podcast. Elsewhere in the podcast, Molly explained that she and her ex-husband had fallen out of sync sexually while she was undergoing treatment, and was never able to get back to their former days even when she her sex drive returned. The new FX series is closely written to the true tale of New-York born Molly, who was first diagnosed with cancer in 2011 and later giving a terminal diagnosis for breast cancer in 2015Part of exploring her body also meant sharing pictures Speaking on the podcast, she said: 'For a long time with sexand this is why I had a problem in my - I was really, really, really good at figuring out what other people liked and then I could simulate that like an actor for them. 'But I never really knew what I liked.' Speaking to Time Magazine, Molly's best friend Nikki revealed the details of her sexcapades after parting ways with her husband. She explained that Molly had began talking to men online and ended up meeting with several of them. According to the publication, the kinky lovers who appear in the FX series are a compilation of the real men Molly encountered, some of whom had unusual fetishes - including one who 'enjoyed being kicked in the d**k'. Nikki confirmed that some scenes in the show depict real life moments in Molly's sex exploration, including barking orders to one man who liked to pretend he was a dog. On the podcast, Molly described how going on dates made her feel 'alive and creative'. She even had some sexual encounters in her hospital bed, Nikki told the publication, saying these had wanted to feel as 'normal as possible' and not just feel 'like she was stuck in the hospital for days on end'. Nikki said controlling men was a way for Molly to feel as though she had control and was an act of 'reclaiming her body' After being given the terminal diagnosis, Molly was adamant that she didn't want to give up on sex and was determined to use her remaining days to explore that side of herself Nikki revealed that the idea to document Molly's sexual endeavours during her cancer journey was an idea she had while picking up her friend from a 9am breakfast date. She told the publication that Molly kept her sense of humour throughout her treatment, and that one funny scene in the show - when she asks a young doctor if he had a permission slip from his parents to be there - really did happen. In the podcast, she even joked about how she was the ideal date for 'commitment phobes'. Asked if she was afraid of bringing strangers back to her home after dates, she replied: 'What are you going to do? Kill me? Im dying!' Nikki said controlling men was a way for Molly to feel as though she had control and was an act of 'reclaiming her body'. She said: '[Molly] wanted to fall in love, and she did; she fell in love with herself.' Molly died in 2019 at the age of 45. Following her death, her best friend Nikki released six episodes of the podcast, Dying for Sex. Nikki still regularly posts about her friend on social media, and even took on a role in the new FX series, playing Molly's Cousin Shelia (the two best friends pictured) The powerful tale of self-discovery is based on the story of Molly Kochan, who died in 2019 at the age of 45 and who was the posthumous star of the Dying for Sex podcast in 2020 The synopsis for the podcast, which has been streamed more than five million times, reads: As they peel back the layers, we learn that Molly isnt just grappling with breast cancer: shes also dealing with some trauma from her past. Along the journey, the friends explore bigger themes that affect us all like healing, forgiveness and what do we do with the time we have left. Molly also wrote a memoir titled Screw Cancer: Becoming Whole, which was published after her death in 2020. Having written the book from her hospital bed, she made Nikki promise she would publish the book. Describing the memoir on her blog before her death, Molly said the book 'talks about sex as a healing force in my life but that also tracks my shift from an emotionally heavy person into a much lighter one.' She added that writing the book had helped to free herself from a lifetime of depression and 'self-loathing'. It was after the book was published that New Girl creator, Elizabeth Meriwether got in touch with Nikki to suggest making a TV adaptation of the book. Michelle Williams, who stars as Molly in the series, hadn't heard of the podcast before taking on the role in the show, but said she had a 'strong emotional reaction' to reading the book. Speaking to Harper's Bazaar, she said: 'I had a really strong emotional reaction. When I finished reading it, I had to read it again. I immediately wanted to start acting out these scenes and trying my hand at these jokes. I was smitten.' Describing what she perceived to be the intention behind Molly's sexual plight, Michelle told The Guardian about her character: 'Shes saying, Im committing to this journey, and the only thing Im taking with me is you, my best friend. Im going to pursue my own pleasure in the midst of this illness, which is going to ultimately take my life and cause me a lot of pain. 'I'm going to continue to seek pleasure in this body, which is capable of both those things'.' Nikki still regularly posts about her friend on social media, and even took on a role in the new FX series, playing Molly's Cousin Shelia. Nikki also served an an executive producer of the new series, and recently wrote on social media that she was 'bursting at the seams with gratitude and love' following its release. 'So proud of the show we made. So proud of Molly!' she added. The new series, which is available on Hulu in the US and on Disney+ internationally, has already earned rave reviews. Time magazine describe it as 'audacious, raunchy celebration of life in the face of certain death, while a five-star review in The Guardian said it 'upends every expectation you have for on-screen sex'. Dying For Sex is available now to watch on Disney+. The new location comes just months after Spud Brothers launched in London Spud Brothers have sent their fans into a frenzy after teasing a third new location on TikTok. Brothers Jacob, 28, and Harley Nelson, 21, have transformed the humble jacket potato into a social media craze since they started recording themselves dishing up the delicious goods from their Preston Flag Market tram. Their success saw them land a shiny new spot in London's West End in November, with fans from around the globe queuing up for hours hoping to purchase a loaded dish before they sold out. It's of little surprise then that the brothers have teased the opening of a new third joint. However, their decision to withhold its exact location has sent fans wild in the comment section, with hundreds pleading for it to be in their hometown. Taking to TikTok, Jacob and Harley shared a clip of them pulling shocked faces while travelling on a train, with the caption, 'That moment when you see the next Spudbros location'. The Preston-born entrepreneurs added, 'Our little Spudvan in Preston is taking over the world #spudbros.' Fans quickly took to the comment section and tried to figure out where the new food spot would be, with one writing: 'Guys that's an Avanti West Coast train so it goes from London to Glasgow.' Jacob (pictured left) and Harley Nelson (pictured right), better known as the Spud Bros, have sent fans into a frenzy after teasing a third new location A second user hoped that the new joint would be in her city, writing, 'Birmingham please! [I'm] sick of lying to my kids that their spuds for tea are from Spud Bros!' A third rooted for a different UK city, adding: 'Newcastle please I'm literally on my knees please I am begging.' Another claimed Bristol would be the perfect city, writing, 'Bristol would be amazing would get the train just for a spud.' However, others believe that the duo are heading overseas to the States, thanks to their choice of headwear. 'They have New York hats on people,' one said, pointing out Jacob and Harley's Yankee caps. It comes after Spud Brothers encountered their first hitch in the road following a visit from a famous American food reviewer. The Spud Bros (pictured) have attracted hungry customers from across the globe with their loaded dishes Jacob (pictured left) and Harley (pictured right) boast over four million followers on TikTok (seen in December, 2024) Keith Lee, 28, an established Michigan-based food reviewer with more than 17 million TikTok followers, took to the Spud Brothers Express in London's West End. However, Lee's 'honest' review of the loaded jacket potatoes, which racked up over 16 million views, was a far cry from the high praise that Spud Brothers Jacob and Harley Nelson are accustomed to. While Lee's wife and cousin enjoyed the dish, the food reviewer claimed his cheese, beans, and tuna spud suffered from flavour clashes. Before Lee published the whole review, a member of his team accidentally leaked a snippet of the video, showing him making disapproving noises after his first bite. Spud Brothers quickly caught wind of the clip, and made a string of responses on their channel, including their plans to remove tuna off their menu because of the backlash. While the drama was cleared up after Lee posted his full review and explained that he meant no disrespect by his opinions, the incident led to a transatlantic TikTok clash. Britons claimed that Lee had disrespected the Spud Brothers while Americans told Spud Brothers to 'give a rest' and stop insulting their 'treasure'. 'Me and my family are in Soho, London, and inside these containers are some of craziest foods I've ever tried in my entire life,' Lee said at the start of his review. Viewers took to the comment section to share their thoughts on the news - and many wanted the new location to be in their hometown He continued: 'We spent 26... The name of this place is Spud Bros, and the concept of Spud Bros is very simple, they make loaded potatoes, but that's the only simple thing about it. 'We pulled up and the line is almost out of the door... Two owners walked up to us while we were stood in the middle of the line, and they said they were waiting for us to come. 'They tried to give us everything for free, but you know that's not how we roll, you know we pay for everything, and I told him straight to his face, ''I'm going to be honest''.' The food reviewer ordered two potatoes, one with cheese, beans, tuna, and tram sauce, and another with chicken curry, tram sauce, crispy onions, garlic butter, and beans. Lee said: 'Before I open this, I am not trolling, this is on the menu, what's in here is not specifically made just to plate,' adding: 'People seriously come and order this, this is not a joke.' Despite going into the review 'extremely open minded', Lee instantly made a disapproving noise after taking the first bite of his tuna spud. He commented on the backlash, saying: 'I don't like the narrative that was spun that I was being disrespectful, when the owner was sitting right there when I was trying, and he saw my review and gave me a thumbs up about it. 'I was asked for my opinion; I gave my opinion. Personally, it didn't work for me, specifically because the number of textures and flavours... clashed.' He added at the end: 'At no point was I disrespectful... everybody's taste buds are different. However, his wife enjoyed the dish, ranking it an eight out of ten, adding: 'This is gas, I like it a lot,' she said. The chicken curry loaded jacket potato was more to Lee's taste buds, with him awarding the combination a seven out of ten. 'In my opinion, this one is better, it's a lot of flavour,' he said. Netflix star Manuel Masalva has been placed into an induced coma after contracting a bacterial infection. The actor - who is known for his role in Narcos: Mexico - was on vacation when he became unwell and had to be hospitalized. The 43-year-old remains in a serious condition and is currently undergoing intensive treatment on antibiotics. Mario Moran, an actor who is friends with Manuel, confirmed the severity of his condition in a video shared on April 2. In the TikTok (@mariomoran_), which was viewed 1.5 million times, he stated that Manuel was in an 'induced coma.' 'My brother is fighting for his life away from home,' Mario said. 'I want to ask for your support in this difficult moment. 'He was the victim of a very aggressive bacterium while he was on vacation and this led him to be in an induced coma.' Netflix star Manuel Masalva, 43, known for his role in Narcos: Mexico, fell ill and was left in a serious condition It is not known exactly what type of infection Manuel contracted, but he recently posted from the Philippines A GoFundMe page has since been set up for the actor. The fundraiser, shared by Mario, has so far reached $50,415 and has exceeded its target of $50,000. The money raised is set to go toward his treatment costs. In a post on Instagram (@manuelmasalva) shared with his 160,000 followers two weeks ago, he revealed that he had been in the Philippines. It is not known exactly what type of infection Manuel contracted, and how he became unwell with this. On April 2, an update was shared on the GoFundMe page, and people who have supported the actor were thanked. The update also mentioned that he was 'still delicate', and that his loved ones were 'waiting for an improvement to begin.' 'Thank you very much to all those who have donated so far; your generosity and support are fundamental in these difficult times for Manuel and his loved ones,' it read. Mario Moran, an actor who is friends with Manuel, confirmed the severity of his condition in a video shared on TikTok and started a GoFundMe for Manuel The fundraiser, shared by Mario, has so far reached $50,415 and has exceeded its target of $50,000. The money raised is set to go toward his treatment costs 'Manuel is still delicate, but the bacteria has already been detected, he is on antibiotics, and we are waiting for an improvement to begin.' Since the fundraiser was created on the first of April, many of the Mexican star's fans have taken to his pinned post on Instagram to send him well wishes. Someone said: 'My prayers for your health.' Another added: 'Get well soon, good Vibes.' 'Wishing you a speedy recovery and sending the best vibes to you and your family,' said a fan. 'Manuel. Get well dear, we wait for you to come back,' a person wrote. 'Wish you to get well soon,' someone said. Tom Cruise has paid tribute to his friend and 'Top Gun' co-star Val Kilmer. Tom Cruise has paid tribute to his friend and 'Top Gun' co-star Val Kilmer Following the actors death at the age of 65, Tom got emotion at CinemaCon 2025 at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas as he remembered his old friend. Tom said: Id like to honor a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer. I cant tell you how much I admire his work, how grateful and honoured I was when he joined 'Top Gun' and came back later for 'Top Gun: Maverick'. Tom, 62, starred alongside Kilmer in the 1986 film 'Top Gun' as Captain Pete Maverick Mitchell, with Kilmer playing his rival-turned-ally, Tom Iceman Kazansky. The actors reunited onscreen for 2022s 'Top Gun: Maverick', which saw Kilmer reprise his role despite years of health struggles. Val's death was announced by his daughter on Tuesday (01.04.25) from complications related to pneumonia, following a long battle with health issues. Diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, he underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and a tracheotomy, which permanently altered his voice. During his speech at CinemaCon, Tom who had been attending the event to promote 'Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning' paused to reflect on Vals impact. He added: I think it would be really nice if we could have a moment together because he loved movies and he gave a lot to all of us. Just kind of think about all the wonderful times that we had with him. I wish you well on the next journey. In a 2022 interview, Tom spoke about how meaningful it was to work with Val again on 'Top Gun: Maverick'. Speaking on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', he said: I just want to say that was pretty emotional. Ive known Val for decades. For him to come back and play that character hes such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again. Youre looking at Iceman. Val, who rose to fame in the 1980s, starred in films including 'Batman Forever' and 'The Doors'. Despite his declining health, he made a highly publicized return in 'Top Gun: Maverick', with artificial intelligence assisting in recreating his voice for the role. He had previously spoken about the significance of returning, saying: Tom was Maverick, but Mavericks nemesis was Iceman. The two went together like salt and pepper. A blind teenager has slammed Southwest Airlines after a flight attendant shamed the college student publicly - before she was left stranded in an unfamiliar airport with no assistance following an excruciating 30 hours of travel. Maddy Kolb, 19, was flying to Harford, Connecticut, from her hometown of Dallas, Texas, when she was left in tears due to a staff member's 'hostility.' Maddy, who takes an average of '12 to 14 Southwest flight a year,' was put on a flight which had a layover in Tampa, Florida - which she'd never stopped over in before. 'I am legally blind, I'm a white cane user, and I have meet and assist with Southwest,' Maddy recounted in a now-viral TikTok video. 'I have pre-board with Southwest, I have blind stamped on all of my boarding passes.' Maddy, who is a disability advocate, said she had previously only had positive experiences with Southwest. She explained that her first flight was smooth and when passengers got off in Tampa, the cabin crew initially let her stay on. 'I usually have an escort that takes me through to the gate, the gate agent helps me board the plane first, flight attendants help me find a seat and put up my carry-ons, and then meet and assist helps me with layovers and getting to baggage claim,' the college student told DailyMail.com However, the plane had to disembark due to bad weather, with the airline rebooking the flights for everyone which resulted in Maddy spending six hours in the Tampa airport. Maddy Kolb, 19, was flying to Harford, Connecticut, from her hometown of Dallas, Texas, when she was left in tears due to a staff members 'hostility' But with several of her flights pushed back or cancelled, Maddy was told by Southwest they would compensate her for a hotel and dinner if she had to stay the night in Tampa. Luckily, she was put on a flight to Hartford via Baltimore - and was told by ground staff to let the flight attendants know that her next flight was leaving shortly after they landed so she could be taken straight there. '[I was told] they were going to wait for me, due to my blindness... they were going to hold the plane for me,' she recounted. When she boarded the plane, she said she was met with a flight attendant who told her she was 'not special,' and it 'doesn't matter that I had a flight to get to.' 'Basically that I'm not important and it didn't matter,' she said. Despite another fight attendant trying to intervene, Maddy said the Southwest crew member made an announcement to the whole plane, reiterating what she said to Maddy. Maddy admitted the interaction left her crying for the 'entire 90-minute flight' 'That is the first time I've had a fight attendant speak to me in a way that was negative,' she said. 'In the past, I've only had delays that have been 60 minutes or less, therefore I hadn't been significantly impacted by delays before this.' The flight to Hartford had departed by the time Maddy arrived in Baltimore around midnight, and the next flight was due to leave at 9.30 the following morning. Maddy claims she was then told Southwest would not compensate her for a hotel room, and she was expected to 'sleep on the floor.' Maddy, who takes an average of '12 to 14 Southwest flight a year,' was put on a flight which had a layover in Tampa, Florida - which she'd never stopped over in before When Maddy she boarded the plane, she said she was met with a flight attendant who told her she was 'not special,' and it 'doesn't matter that I had a flight to get to' 'I have a disability, they knew I have a disability, and I was to sleep on the floor,' she recounted in disbelief, noting her bag had also been lost and she had been assured in Tampa she would be taken care of. Maddy's father managed to book a hotel room near the airport, but staff were unable to find her bag, eventually telling her it had been put on a flight to Hartford. 'My current issue with Southwest is the hostility I received from that flight attendant, and the customer service agent,' she admitted. Maddy eventually made it to Hartford, where she was told her suitcase actually had been there the entire time, and had to get ready for class in the airport bathroom. Maddy said she doesn't think she will fly with Southwest again, describing the experience as 'very detrimental' to her mental health as someone with a disability. 'I will continue to advocate for what I and other passengers deserve,' she pledged. In a follow up video Maddy said a representative from Southwest has since been in touch to offer her full compensation for the hotel and any money spent on food while her flight was delayed. Southwest Airlines confirmed to DailyMail.com they had spoken with Maddy. Jo O'Halloran was in her early fifties when the symptoms she and her friends had heard so much about started to appear. 'I was always tired,' she tells me. 'I was working a fairly busy job and caring for my ageing mother, so you expect to be tired, but this was quite severe. I also had nausea, brain fog, constipation, cramping in my stomach and things like that.' When Jo spoke to girlfriends around the same age, they were quick to reassure her: it's menopause. 'Part of me thought, "Oh, well, I suppose I just need to get on with it", but the fatigue began to be really quite extreme,' Jo recalls. She saw her GP and explained her symptoms. He ordered a blood test, which came back within the normal ranges, which left Jo thinking perhaps she'd been overstating her symptoms. 'I went away going, "Okay, am I making this up? Am I really this tired?"' Jo says. 'So I decided perhaps I needed to improve my lifestyle. I bought a treadmill, started getting fitter, eating better, all those types of things, but the exhaustion was just constant.' Jo O'Halloran was tired all the time and suffering with nausea, brain fog, constipation and cramping in her stomach It was then that Jo switched GPs, and saw someone specialising in women's health and menopause. With Jo's combination of symptoms, her new GP also suspected it was menopause-related, and started her on hormone replacement therapy (HRT). 'After that, I felt like, "Okay, I'm handling it. I'm looking after my menopause,"' says Jo. 'I was still so, so tired, still having hot flushes that weren't going away, but I was taking the tablets and just trying to get on with life, to be honest.' It wasn't until a quiet Monday about two years later that Jo would discover there was something else very wrong. 'I had a niggling pain in my side that was getting worse,' she recounts. 'So I called my doctor to make an appointment. Because I had a fever, and they were following Covid protocols, they advised me to go straight to the emergency room. 'When I got there, they ordered scans and told me it was likely diverticulitis. A few hours later, I was waiting to be transferred to the ward when the doctor came in and told me they'd discovered a large mass on my pancreas that had already metastasised to my liver.' Over the course of the following week, Jo was diagnosed with a cancer she'd never even heard of: neuroendocrine cancer. Neuroendocrine cancers, also known as neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), are a group of uncommon cancers that originate in neuroendocrine cells, which are found throughout the body and produce hormones. Doctors and friends told her the symptoms were likely caused by menopause By the time Jo was diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer, it was already stage 4 and inoperable. She describes it as a 'very lonely, surreal experience' These tumors can be slow-growing or more aggressive, and can occur in various locations, including the digestive tract, lungs and pancreas. 'It's like everything you thought you knew about your life suddenly comes crumbling down,' Jo explains. 'To go from thinking everything was normal and fine, to being told that you have stage-four inoperable cancer, it's just a very lonely, surreal experience.' According to the latest stats from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, there were just under 6,000 new diagnoses of neuroendocrine cancers last year. According to Meredith Cummins, CEO of Neuroendocrine Cancer Australia (NECA), there are about 30,000 Aussies currently living with neuroendocrine cancer. 'Unfortunately, because many of the symptoms of these kinds of cancers can mimic symptoms of other, less-serious conditions, many of these patients have been misdiagnosed for an average of five to seven years,' she explains. 'For that reason, about 60 per cent are at stage four by the time they're diagnosed.' This was also the case for Pat Meehan, whose diagnosis in 2014 came 12 years after she first started experiencing symptoms. Pat was suffering with symptoms for 12 years before she got a diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumours 'At first, my iron stores just kept on dropping, and I was having a lot of gastrointestinal upset, so doctors kept sending me for endoscopies and gastroscopies,' Pat says. 'I'd go on iron pills for a while, my levels would come back up, and then they'd drop again. I also experienced flushing, as well as pain in my stomach.' Pat was on holiday in Queensland when she recognised the now-familiar symptoms of very low iron. 'I was feeling awful, so I went to the doctor and this absolutely lovely doctor who did some blood tests and said, "Yes, your iron is very low, and if you were my mother, I wouldn't let you drive back to Albury until you had an iron infusion." 'So I ended up having to stay overnight in the Toowoomba hospital and have an infusion. By the time I got back home to NSW, I told my GP to send me to a new specialist, because I needed to get to the bottom of it.' Pat's new specialist sent her for a new exploratory procedure, a capsule gastroscopy, where she swallowed a small camera to more thoroughly check what was going on. 'Within three weeks I'd been diagnosed with NETs (neuroendocrine tumours), and it was an absolute shock to find out it was inoperable and incurable.' While both Pat and Jo are currently receiving targeted therapy to help manage their NETs, the women believe that if their cancer had been caught earlier, there would have been more treatment options, and it might even have been curable. 'When caught early, NETs are often able to be operated on and removed before they metastasise,' explains Meredith Cummins. 'But the problem is there is so little awareness about this type of cancer, even among the medical community. I've had GPs that say to me, "I've never seen a neuroendocrine cancer patient in my life." And I say: "well, you probably have, but you didn't diagnose them and they got frustrated and went to somebody else."' NECA continues to campaign for greater education surrounding the disease - now the seventh most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country - among both medical professionals and the general public. 'It's just a sneaky cancer,' says Cummins. 'Patients know something is wrong, with many of them going to their GP over and over with the same symptoms. It can really make it so frustrating for the patient. 'Some of them I know have actually been referred to psychiatric assessment, but it's not in their heads. They know they've got something wrong with them - it's just not been diagnosed.' Because neuroendocrine cancers can develop in several different parts of the body, the symptoms can be hard to pin down, but include: Fatigue and loss of appetite Abdominal pain and bloating Unexplained weight loss Nausea or vomiting Changes in bowel habits Flushing of the face Wheezing or difficulty breathing Heart palpitations or rapid heartbeat Jo, who is currently undergoing Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) to treat her cancer, says her biggest takeaway has been that if something doesn't feel right, don't stop trying to seek answers. 'Women know our bodies,' she says. 'We know when something isn't right. If you're having symptoms that don't resolve, keep pushing. 'If they'd found my cancer earlier, there would have been so many more options. ' Trust your instincts and advocate for more tests. Ask for a scan. Ask them to do more tests. You're allowed to keep pushing for answers.' NHS hospitals and buildings are crumbling, plagued by vermin and crippled by sewage leaks, an alarming staff survey reveals. Health workers for the union Unison suggests pests may be thriving in damp conditions and unfixed premises. The poll of almost 9,000 members found the workplaces are crawling with rats, cockroaches, silverfish and other pests. They are also affected by crumbling ceilings, defective lighting and broken lifts and toilets, raising concerns that staff and patient safety is at risk. Of those polled, around one in six (16 per cent) said they had seen vermin such as rats inside their building in the past 12 months. Similarly, 16 per cent said there had been other infestations such as silverfish, ants and cockroaches. Silverfish are metallic, silvery bugs that thrive in damp conditions while cockroaches can carry diseases and illnesses such as gastroenteritis, diarrhoea, typhoid and salmonella. Rats carry several diseases such as leptospirosis (Weils disease), which is spread in their urine. NHS hospitals and buildings are crumbling, plagued by vermin and crippled by sewage leaks, an alarming staff survey reveals The new survey also found 17 per cent of staff do not think their building is safe. More than half (52 per cent) reported seeing buckets catching leaking water in their workplace buildings in the past year while almost a quarter (23 per cent) witnessed sewage leaks. Some 28 per cent said public toilets in their hospitals have been out of order for extended periods while 30 per cent reported broken staff toilets. Almost half (47 per cent) said lifts are out of order, 27 per cent said there was defective lighting and about one in five (21 per cent) warned of ceilings falling apart. One member of staff working in the north-west of England told how rodent bait boxes were dotted all over his hospital and a leaking waste pipe had resulted in a foul odour. However, rats were still getting into a room storing sterile instruments and supplies, he said. One hospital staff member from Scotland said ceilings had collapsed and water buckets collecting leaking rainwater were a constant trip hazard. One building had seen a beetle infestation and there were regular sewage leaks from broken pipes. Another worker in charge of cleaning and handling medical equipment in the east of England told Unison he had seen mouse droppings on the floor and desks in reception, in staff breakrooms and in the sterile instrument storage room. Helga Pile, head of health at Unison, said: This survey paints a worrying picture of an NHS system thats falling apart at the seams and in need of a serious overhaul. No-one should be dodging rats, stepping over sewage or watching out for falling ceiling tiles in NHS buildings. The last thing patients or staff want is vermin, cockroaches and other unpleasant things roaming the wards. Disease-carrying pests can put peoples health at risk. Previous governments made wildly exaggerated claims about building new hospitals and raided pots of cash earmarked to improve the NHS estate. The NHS should be fit for the 21st century, not a crumbling Dickensian relic. Fixing the damage done by years of neglect isnt going to be a five-minute job. Saffron Cordery, interim chief executive of NHS Providers Money needs to be made available immediately to sort out the worst of the problems. Longer-term investment plans must be sped up and maintenance budgets spared the axe. If operations are cancelled and wards closed because of pests and sewage leaks, delays and waiting times will only get worse. The Mail published video in January showing a mouse running around a 'disgusting' ward at Walsall Manor Hospital. And pictures showed a rat infestation in a kitchen at East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust that serves 1,500 patients every day. Saffron Cordery, interim chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents NHS trusts, said: Safety of patients and staff is the top priority, but this is being put at risk every day from crumbling buildings, pest infestations and sewage leaks. Its alarming that NHS trusts have to spend lots of money on pest control on top of a rocketing, near-14 billion backlog of essential repairs to buildings and equipment which are in a very bad way. Vital parts of the NHS are falling to bits after years of underinvestment nationally. Hospitals as well as mental health, community and ambulance services are doing everything they can to improve productivity and deliver more high-quality care, but to do this they need safe, modern, efficient and reliable facilities. The condition of the NHS estate is holding them back from doing this as quickly as possible. NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care have been contacted for comment. A heartbroken mom is issuing a warning about the dangers of 'hippy crack' after her daughter tragically died from inhaling it. Ashley Weir, who died at 30 years old, started inhaling nitrous oxide, also known as whippets or laughing gas, in 2020 after being introduced to it while working in a restaurant. Mom Carissa Garabedian, 58, said her daughter started buying small cartridges, traditionally sold to make whipped cream, before working her way up to larger tanks. Ms Garabedian said Ashley, who would often buy multiple canisters of nitrous oxide per day, did a number of stints in rehab trying to battle her addiction - each time vowing she'd quit for good. After going to a treatment facility for a month in 2021, the travel advisor said Ashley was sober for two years before relapsing in August 2023. A little over a year later, Ashley died and was found dead in bed at her home in Pompano Beach, Florida, 'surrounded by tanks of nitrous oxide' after suffering an accidental overdose. Ms Garabedian said: 'I never thought I was going to lose her to this. I'm continuing to struggle everyday with the finality of it all. She was full of life and love and was an amazing individual with a heart of gold. 'I feel like I'm expected to live every day with part of me that's completely broken.' Ashley Weir was 30 years old when she died from inhaling too much nitrous oxide Her mom Carissa Garabedian said her daughter started buying small cartridges of the gas before working her way up to larger tanks In the United States, nitrous oxide is not considered a controlled substance. Possession is considered legal under federal law, but prosecution is possible for selling or distributing nitrous oxide for the purpose of human consumption. While the gas is supposed to be used in whipped cream, cocktails and coffees, or as a sedative in medicine, people are instead inhaling it, which acts on the nervous system and gives the user a minute-long head rush and a euphoric, tingly feeling. Dr Sulagna Misra, a primary care physician, previously told DailyMail.com: 'This issue is very troubling because the high is temporary and is constantly being chased, and the product is very accessible.' Ms Garabedian, from Richmond, Virginia, said: 'It was very hard for me to see her struggling so much. 'I think she always wanted to stop and she just couldn't. 'She was in therapy and she did have a sponsor but the laughing gas was so readily available, with no limitations. 'She could buy it online, or at the gas station, and no one would know she was taking it. 'The legality of it all made it a very confusing thing. Why would it be sold everywhere if it was that dangerous?' Dr Misra said people can overdose and die from inhaling too much at one time because it cuts off oxygen supply to the brain and body. Shown above are used nitrous oxide cream propellant canisters abandoned next to the side of the road. The specific nitrous oxide product Ashley was using is it not known Your browser does not support iframes. Whippets have been abused for decades, but research from the Royal London hospital suggests it's been 'rapidly rising' in both the US and UK, and has become the seventh most popular drug in the world. There are no recent reports on the number of deaths linked to laughing gas and the latest data is from 2016. It shows there had been 29 deaths in the US from nitrous oxide, according to a study from Yale doctors. Ashley died on November 29, 2024 and the specific nitrous oxide product Ashley was using is it not known. Ms Garabedian said she was 'broken' over her daughter's death and she 'never thought she'd lose her daughter to the drug.' Now, she wants to warn others of the potential dangers of using the drug recreationally - and believes that more should be done to stop it being sold at vape shops. Ashley had struggled with addiction and went to rehab multiple times Ashley died from an accidental overdose of nitrous oxide on November 29, 2024 Ms Garabedian said: 'I believe that many don't realize the impact that nitrous oxide has on your body - the deprivation of oxygen and the killing of the organs. 'It's a very debilitating and obviously deadly substance that is not being recognized by so many and is continuing to be sold. 'I 100 percent believe that if it wasn't as readily available, then it would have been more challenging for Ashley to stop taking it. 'Do vape shops really need to be selling these tank-sized cans of nitrous oxide? The mom continued: 'No one is walking into a vape shop to buy it for whipped cream, or for a dentists or doctors. It's very misleading. 'I believe there's nothing safe about nitrous oxide - in any form or any amount. 'More should be done to keep this off the shelves for public selling. There's no reason the average person needs to be able to buy this.' Ozempic is fuelling a boom in patients seeking nip/tucks to fix cosmetic problems after massive weight loss, say British plastic surgeons. New industry figures, published today, show demand for almost all types of surgery have risen in the past year, with the biggest increase seen in thigh lift operations. According to the data, from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) last year there was a 24 per cent rise in patients undergoing the op. A thigh lift, or thighplasty, involves cutting away excess skin around the upper legsa problem often seen in those who lose large amounts of weightand tightening remaining tissue. Abdominoplastyalso known as a tummy tuckand body lifts, which work in a similar way, are increasingly popular as slimmers sought to rid themselves of post-Ozempic 'melted candle skin'. While effective, surgeons say these are among the most complex and risky cosmetic ops around, with common complications including infections and blood clots. Brow, eye and facelifts are also surgingwith the operations often touted as the only way to remedy dramatically sagging, prematurely aged 'Ozempic face'. The health benefits of new weight loss treatmentscollectively known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1sare numerous and well documented. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. British plastic surgeons claim Ozempic use is fuelling a boom in patients seeking nip/tucks to fix cosmetic problems after massive weight loss The jabs help patients shed up to a quarter of their bodyweight, boosting heart health, helping to prevent cancer and even boosting fertility, according to research. But many patients also complain of looking worse after losing weight. On social media, users say they have been left with sunken, hollow-looking faces, sagging skin on the body, 'empty' breasts and buttocks. These body problems are not a side effect of the medication but a result of massive, rapid weight loss. While fat tissues shrink away, the skinwhich has become stretched over time doesn't simply snap back. Alongside embarrassment, patients also suffer mobility issues and risk infections due to huge amounts of loose, excess skin. And, in a bid to tackle the issue, cosmetic surgeons are rapidly refining their techniques in order to offer fixes, according to recent reports. Speaking to MailOnline earlier this month Dr Johnny Franco, an Austin-based consultant plastic surgeon said: 'GLP-1s are a new gateway drug for aestheticswe are seeing a whole new sub-group of patients with skin issues at a very young age.' Your browser does not support iframes. BAAPS president, consultant cosmetic surgeon Nora Nugent said: 'I am seeing more facelift patients who have seen the effects of weight loss in their face and necks whilst on GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic and Mounjaro to manage their weight. 'However, I think this contributes to rather than accounts for all the increase in facial rejuvenation surgery that we have seen.' The most popular op is breast augmentationor a boob jobwith more than 5,200 women choosing the operation in 2023, a six per cent rise year on year. This was followed closely by breast reduction, with 4,707 women having the opa one per cent increase. There were also 248 men who underwent a breast reduction to tackle unsightly 'moobs', a two per cent increase. The most popular ops for men were rhinoplastyalso known as a nose job and eyelild surgery. Women were also increasingly asking for superficial gluteal lipofilling, more commonly known as a Brazilian Butt Lift, or BBL. BAAPS surgeons stopped offering the op in 2022, after numerous reports of patient deaths linked to the procedure. However in recent years, thanks to safer surgical techniques, some have begun to perform the procedure again. Dr Nugent adds that, in other cases, patients who have previously opted for injectable cosmetic treatments such as Botox and fillers are now turning to surgery to get better results. She said: 'I am also seeing more patients who have reached the limits of what non-surgical treatments can do and want a natural appearing long-lasting rejuvenation.' BAAPS vice president, surgeon Anthony Macquillan said: 'Post-Covid, we've observed a shift in patient priorities, with a greater focus on both mental and functional health. 'This may explain the rise in procedures like abdominoplasties and breast reductions, which offer both physical and psychological benefits. 'At the same time, the increase in facelifts could be linked to societal changes, such as the rising pension age and the desire to remain relevant in the workplace. 'For many, this type of surgery is not just aesthetic but also functional helping to maintain confidence, secure employment, and reduce anxiety associated with age-related bias.' A deadly hospital infection may be spreading three times faster than previously thought. Clostridium difficile, also known as C. diff, is a bacteria that spreads easily, is 'immune' to disinfectants and kills about six percent of people it infects mostly older adults. Previous research had suggested it was spreading rarely in hospitals via direct contact between patients or contact with contaminated surfaces. But a new study from the University of Utah that tracked individual bacteria now suggests the spread is happening much more often in intensive care units, where the most vulnerable patients are. Scientists showed the bacteria was surviving alcohol-based cleansers and lurking in hospital rooms for weeks after an infected patient was discharged before infecting another person. Dr Michael Rubin, an epidemiologist who led the study, said: 'There's a lot going on under the hood that we're just not seeing. 'If we ignore that, then we're potentially putting patients at unnecessary risk.' C. diff infects around 500,000 patients every year in the US, triggering symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever. Of these, about 30,000 die from the infection. C. difficile can lurk in hospitals for months because outside of the body the bacteria forms spores that are very hard to get rid of And in the UK, data from the country's public health service suggests about 16,000 people are now infected every year with cases rising in hospitals. About 2,100 die from the infections. The bacteria is hard to clear from facilities because it can form invisible spores outside the human body that survive for months. In mild cases, infected patients may suffer frequent bouts of diarrhea. But in more severe instances, the disease may cause diarrhea 10 to 15 times a day alongside persistent abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, fever and rapid heart rate. Doctors warn it can be mistaken for food poisoning, a stomach flu or a normal side effect of medication. To treat the infection, doctors may stop administering antibiotics to a patient leaving time for the patient's immune system and microbiome to target the bacteria and kill it. Or they may administer a strong antibiotic such as Vancomycin or Metronidazole to kill off the bacteria. In the study, published in JAMA Network Open, scientists took samples from 200 patients who were admitted to two intensive care units over several weeks. Thousands of samples were taken, both from patients' skin and from hospital surfaces and the hands of healthcare workers. These were then analyzed for the presence of C. diff, with the bacteria's DNA then decoded to allow researchers to track individual strains throughout the hospital. Overall, they detected the bacteria in about 10 percent of the patients sampled with C. diff either on a patient's body or in the room. It wasn't clear how often the bacteria was detected among healthcare workers. Your browser does not support iframes. Results showed in most cases the bacteria was genetically identical to that of another patient or that found in another room, suggesting the C. diff bacteria from one patient was unknowingly transferred to another. The team also found that in more than half of the potential transmission events, the two patients involved were not even in the hospital at the same time sometimes separated by weeks demonstrating how persistent the bacteria is. Dr Rubin added: 'What I'm hoping we get from this paper is that healthcare providers put a greater emphasis on infection prevention measures and adhere to them as much as they possibly can. 'Those are the measures that can help interrupt this type of invisible transmission.' To kill the bacteria's spores, the Environmental Protection Agency says to use bleach at a 1:10 dilution with water to disinfect surfaces. Researchers added that not all C. diff bacteria cause disease and that in most cases they observed harmless varieties of the bacteria. Nonetheless, they said that the spread of these non-disease-causing bacteria still revealed routes that the more dangerous version could take. President Donald Trump has directed the NIH to study 'regret' after transgender people transition, as he continues to clamp down on 'wokeness' in government agencies. Several NIH staff members who spoke under the condition of anonymity, confirmed the directive to Nature. Two weeks ago, Matthew Memoli, who was acting NIH director at the time, sent an email that was obtained by Nature. It outlined two areas of research the Trump administration wants to fund concerning the transgender experience. The first focus is 'regret and detransition following social transition as well as chemical and surgical mutilation of children and adults' and the second research request is 'outcomes from children who have undergone social transition and/or chemical and surgical mutilation'. But Harry Barbee, who studies LGBTQ+ topics at Johns Hopkins University, says the decision to solely focus on the negative consequences of transitioning will only serve to support what trans advocate call Trump's anti-trans agenda. Estimates suggest there are 1.6million transgender Americans in the US. About 25 percent of them undergo gender-affirming surgery. Research has suggested these procedures reduce anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. According to an analysis by Barbee and their colleagues, fewer than one percent of transgender people regret the surgeries, compared to 14 percent of all people who regret any type of surgery. It is believed NIH grants funding around 187 trans-health studies have been cut, according to research conducted by Brittany Charlton, an epidemiologist at Boston's Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health. US District Judge Brendan Hurson, of Baltimore, extended the nationwide block on a Trump executive order, which halted government funding for doctors providing gender-affirming care for transgender youth under age 19 Protesters fill the Iowa state Capitol to denounce a bill that would strip the state civil rights code of protections based on gender identity in February 2025 in Des Moines, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) Your browser does not support iframes. The NIH spends nearly $48 billion annually on medical research on topics ranging from cancer to diabetes, making it the largest single public funder of biomedical and behavioral research in the world. Employees who spoke anonymously to Nature said the White House sometimes steers the agency to topics to focus on but this latest move takes on a more hands-on approach with 'specificity, inflammatory language and focus on a hyper-polarizing topic.' One employee said: '[Although the White House can sometimes] push us on various different things, we normally get to chart out the approach.' Barbee, who identifies as non-binary and queer, told Nature: '[It will create] a distorted research ecosystem where only politically favorable findings are permitted to exist [and an] evidence vacuum for clinicians who are trying to do right by their patients.' But the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) - which is the NIH's parent agency - has defended the line of research. A spokesperson from the HSS, which is headed up by Robert FKennedy Jr, said: 'NIH is prioritizing research that serves the best interests of public health, not ideological agendas, and will continue to support studies that provide clear, objective data - particularly regarding the long-term effects of gender transitions.' On day one in office, Trump signed an order ensuring federal agencies recognize only two sexes, male and female, and to reject the concept of 'gender ideology'. He also signed an executive order freezing government funding for transgender surgeries but that was overridden by a judge. US District Judge Brendan Hurson of Baltimore managed to extend a nationwide block on the executive order, which halted government funding for doctors providing gender-affirming care for transgender youth under age 19. The preliminary injunction from Hurson keeps enforcement of the orders on hold while the case plays out, though the administration is expected to appeal. President Trump's executive order stated 'it is the policy of the United States that it will not fund, sponsor, promote, assist, or support the so-called "transition" of a child from one sex to another.' The above map from the Movement Advancement Project shows states with bans or restrictions on transgender care. States in dark green have 'shield' laws protecting care access, while those in light green have 'shield' executive orders in place. States in tan neither have bans nor 'shield' laws. Those in light orange have bans on surgeries for trans youth, and those in dark orange have bans on medications and surgeries. If a state has a red symbol, it is a felony to provide certain care in these states The order axed federal funding to clinics providing treatment to minors in a bid to 'rigorously enforce all laws that prohibit or limit these destructive and life-altering procedures' and compared transgender surgeries to 'chemical and surgical mutilation.' While regret is rare, there are instances where transgender people said they wish they didn't go through with their transitions and these detransitioners have also spoken out against gender-affirming surgeries. Retired Navy SEAL Kristin Beck made headlines when he detransitioned and reverted to his previous name, Chris Beck. He called transitioning 'the worst mistake' of his life and described being given hormones after a one-hour consultation at Veterans Affairs. He came out as trans in an interview with CNN's Anderson Cooper in 2013. Beck underwent grueling facial feminization surgery, but stopped short of genital surgery. Beck served in the Navy for 20 years, including on the elite unit SEAL Team Six, and is now turning his attention to the health of young people who are considering similar choices to his. Meanwhile, Chloe Cole, who transitioned to male at 13 before later regretting her decision at 16, likened gender-affirming surgery to an 'experimentation on children.' She previously recalled her path from transitioning to 'detransitioning,' indicating how taking puberty blockers and having surgery 'irreversibly and painfully' damaged her body. Her regret stemmed from a belief that she was influenced by social media, not gender dysphoria, and she now directs blame toward the medical professionals whom she says did not question her decision to transition. 'I was failed by the system,' she said. 'I literally lost organs.' Trump's order prompted several high-profile hospital systems like Children's National Hospital in Washington DC and NYU Langone in New York City to stop prescribing puberty blockers or hormones to youth or suspend care completely. Hurson argued Trump's executive order is 'unconstitutional' and goes against state policies. He wrote: 'The challenged provisions of the Executive Orders place significant conditions on federal funding that Congress did not prescribe. 'This, the Constitution simply does not allow, as there is no provision in the Constitution that authorizes the President to enact, to amend, or to repeal statutes.' The government funds public hospital systems in order to pay for care, keep infrastructure updated, and provide care to low-income populations. Gender-affirming care has often fallen under this umbrella because experts suggest it could improve a patient's mental and physical health. Hurson's block comes after seven families of transgender or nonbinary children, along with transgender advocacy groups, filed a lawsuit over the orders last month, arguing the policy is discriminatory because it does not prohibit federal funding for the same treatments for non-transgender patients. And just days earlier, a judge in Seattle blocked the executive order for trans youth in Washington, Minnesota, Oregon, and Colorado in a lawsuit from attorneys general in those states. Attorneys general in Democrat-led states like California and New York have also urged doctors to keep providing care to transgender kids, arguing that pulling the plug on trans care services would violate state laws. As of December 2024, 26 states have passed bans on gender-affirming healthcare for transgender children and teenagers, according to the Movement Advancement Project. Transition surgery, which can include removing the breasts (also called 'top surgery') and changes to genitalia, under 18 is extremely rare and decided on a case-by-case basis by teams of primary care doctors, psychologists, endocrinologists, and surgeons. Trans children typically begin their transition with puberty blockers. These medications delay the onset of puberty to provide the child and their family with more time to decide whether to pursue hormone therapies. Hormone therapies, meanwhile, typically begin in a childs teenage years to help them develop secondary sex characteristics. A girl transitioning to become a boy, for instance, may take hormones to deepen their voice and grow body hair. After undergoing hormone therapy, a trans person may choose to undergo surgery to medically transition, though not everyone does this. DailyMail.com has reached out to the NIH and is awaiting a request for comment. What Book... Political Journalist and Broadcaster, Andrew Pierce . . . are you reading now? Im rereading the Robert Harris bestseller Conclave. Harris, who was once a political journalist like me, specialises in the corrupting effects of power. No more so than in a papal conclave, one of the oldest methods of electing a head of State (of Vatican City). Harris understand the intrigues and deceits of powerful men having worked alongside and befriended the likes of the serpentine Lord Mandelson who is now our ambassador in Washington. The same political ambition, conceits and vanities are deployed in this riveting book. Harris cardinals, like politicians seeking our votes, have been blessed with heightened powers of rhetoric as they seek to plot and scheme to become Gods Vicar on Earth. Im a practising Roman Catholic. Even reading Conclave for a second time I still found the twist at the end absolutely shocking. . . . would you like to take to a desert island? No contest. It would be Tolkiens epic The Lord Of The Rings. I read it first when I was 16 and become totally immersed in the Hobbit world of Middle Earth and the dark evil empire of Mordor and Sauron. There is a strong dose of romance and more than a dash of Macbeth with walking-talking woods, magic mirrors and misleading prophecies. The trilogy would inspire me to keep building a boat to make my escape from the desert island. Historical Icon: Elizabeth ! was Pierce's favourite of the Ladybird kings and queens . . . first gave you the reading bug? As a child I was hooked on Ladybird books about the kings and queens of England. Elizabeth I was my favourite. Is that why I was an early fan of Mrs Thatcher? I was also a voracious reader of Enid Blyton. I was so envious of the Famous Five with those lavish picnics and lashings of ginger beer, and Timmy the dog. Fizzy drinks growing up on our Swindon council estate were on high days and holidays. And even then we never ever had ginger beer. . . . left you cold? I thought Id try Salman Rushdies The Satanic Verses. What a mistake. It is impenetrable. Im amazed he had a fatwa put on his head. The Ayatollah Khomeini, Supreme Leader of Iran, issued the religious decree calling for his death. But I find it hard to believe the medieval cleric got beyond the end of the first chapter. Death and Other Occupational Hazards by Veronika Dapunt (Bantam 16.99, 384pp) Death and Other Occupational Hazards is available now from the Mail Bookshop This original story gripped me from the start and kept me hooked to the end. Death is the star, depicted here not as a terrifying skeleton clutching a scythe but rather as a flawed, relatable woman, simply trying to do her job in difficult circumstances. Not only does this Death look nothing like humans have imagined her for millennia, shes also very funny. Death finds her job hard and decides to ask the Boss (also playing against type with no white beard or cloud) for a sabbatical. She tells him shes near burnout and that spending serious time in the human world will improve her performance when she comes back to work. This clinches it and Deaths sister Life helps facilitate the break, setting Death up with a new name, a place to live and a job as a paralegal. But its not long into her much-needed holiday before Death realises theres a murderer on the loose and she must catch him. Different and compelling. Ordinary Saints by Niamh Ni Mhaoileoin (Manilla Press 16.99, 368pp) Ordinary Saints is available now from the Mail Bookshop Protagonist Jay is a teenager when she kisses a girl for the first time. Caught up in the moment, she ignores the messages from her parents asking her to call them. Its the next day when she finds out that her brother, Ferdia, who was living in Rome and training to be a priest, has been killed in a terrible accident. Years later, Jay sees a similar message from her father and spirals into instant anxiety, imagining her mother dead. Jays dread isnt helped by the fact that she cant remember how long ago it was that she spoke to her devout Catholic family. Jays dad tells her the church is starting the long process of canonising Ferdia as a saint and that she needs to attend a celebratory Mass at home in Ireland. Living in London now as an out-lesbian, Jay thought the religious stuff was long behind her. Its beautifully written and brilliant on grief, love and family expectations. Wonderful. Show Me Where it Hurts by Claire Gleeson (Sceptre 18.99, 256pp) Show Me Where It Hurts is available now from the Mail Bookshop Rachels husband Tom is driving her and their two children home from visiting his parents when, in one instant and with no warning, he destroys their family. After this shock opening, we see Rachel experiencing the heartbreaking aftermath of what happened and also go back in time to meet the family pre-tragedy. Before, on the surface at least, life seemed good. Their relationship was full of love and tenderness, but there was a sense of darkness at the edges. The after is all dark, containing barely any light, but Rachel still cannot find it in herself to hate the husband she so adored. I dont want to spoil the plot by giving away too much, but I was gripped by this emotionally intelligent, thought-provoking exploration of the worst thing possible and what led to it. There are no easy answers, however, and the deeper into it we get, the more complicated it becomes. Devastating and important. A White House correspondent who turned heads earlier this year for her 'inappropriate' outfits has suffered a major career blow. Natalie Winters, 24, the co-host of Steve Bannon's War Room on Rumble, shared on social media Wednesday that she has been denied membership into the prestigious National Press Club. 'I co-host one of the largest shows on the right, Presidents and Congressmen share my work and I have a White House Press pass,' she lamented in a post online. She shared a screenshot of the rejection email she received, which read: 'Dear Natalie, Thank you for applying for membership at the National Press Club. 'Our membership committee and Board of Governors reviewed your application. 'Unfortunately, you do not meet the qualifications for membership at this time. 'Thank you for your interest in the National Press Club.' Winters now says the century-old association in which reporters and other media officials liaise with senior government officials 'should formally change their name to the National Propaganda Club. 'This is a great example of discrimination that's led to the irrelevance of many of the outlets they let in,' she told the New York Post, noting that the club 'could have used my membership dues' in light of 'the mass firings and ratings collapse of legacy media.' Natalie Winters, 24, the co-host of Steve Bannon 's War Room on Rumble, shared on social media Wednesday that she has been denied membership into the prestigious National Press Club She included a screenshot of the rejection email she had received Journalists who are granted admission into the club pay dues totaling $704 annually - or $59 each month. Younger journalists between the ages of 21 and 35, like Winters, are offered a discounted rate at $34 a month or $400 annually. But in a statement to the New York Post, a spokesperson for the National Press Club said it 'has a long-standing process for reviewing membership applications. 'Decisions are made in alignment with the standards of journalism we uphold,' the spokesperson said, noting: 'We do not publicly comment on individual applications out of respect for all involved.' While it's unclear why her membership was denied, she has proven to be a controversial figure with many online slamming her for the outfit she wore on her first day of work. She had donned a black top with a white collared shirt layered underneath, as well a short, white leather skirt with a chevron print on it. 'Could you at least dress more modestly? This isn't high school, it's a PROFESSIONAL and highly privileged position to be in,' one person wrote on social media. Winters has proven to be a controversial figure with many online slamming her for the outfit she wore on her first day of work Winters also previously received flack for openly declaring that she was 'transphobic' and posting inflammatory messages on X about transgender people. She was also branded as an 'Islamaphobe' by viewers of Piers Morgan Uncensored in January, when she claimed that Islam was 'conducive to pedophilia.' Then, after President Donald Trump got into a shouting match on-camera in the middle of the Oval Office with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, she decided to start a flame war with the Ukrainian leader. Winters shared photos of herself in a short, tight-fitting red dress, writing: 'I really don't care, do you?' and tagging Zelensky in the post. It was an apparent reference to a jacket First Lady Melania Trump wore during her husband's first term when they went to visit immigrant children in Texas with the phrase printed on the back. Still, Winters - a Los Angeles native and a graduate of the University of Chicago - continues to be a fixture on Bannon's podcast, which is said to have an audience of millions of listeners. Tom Hanks daughter has opened up about her turbulent childhood and complex relationship with her mother. Tom Hanks daughter has opened up about her turbulent childhood and complex relationship with her mother Elizabeth Hanks, 42 who Tom had with his first wife, Samantha Lewes is publishing 'The 10: A Memoir of Family and the Open Road', and uses the book to reflect on how her parents 1985 split shaped her and her brother Colin Hanks early years. In an excerpt obtained by People, she wrote: I am a kid from the First (non-famous) Marriage. My only memories of my parents in the same place at the same time are Colins high school graduation, then my high school graduation. I have one picture of me standing between my parents. In it, my mothers best wig is slightly askew. Elizabeth, who now goes by E.A. Hanks, was born in Burbank but has few memories of the early years in Los Angeles because her mother moved them six hours away to Sacramento without warning shortly after the divorce. She wrote: Eventually a divorce agreement was settled, and I would visit my dad and stepmother (and soon enough my younger half brothers) on the weekends and during summers, but from 5 to 14, years filled with confusion, violence, deprivation, and love, I was a Sacramento girl. She recalled living in a white house with columns, a backyard with a pool, and a bedroom with pictures of horses plastered on every wall. However, as the years passed, she said her mothers mental health deteriorated. She said: The backyard became so full of dog s*** that you couldnt walk around it, the house stank of smoke. The fridge was bare or full of expired food more often than not, and my mother spent more and more time in her big four-poster bed, poring over the Bible. Elizabeth also described a turning point when one night, her emotional violence became physical violence, and in the aftermath, I moved to Los Angeles, right smack in the middle of the seventh grade. After that, the custody arrangement reversed, with Elizabeth living primarily with Tom and visiting Sacramento on weekends and in the summer. Toms ex Samantha, whose real name was Susan Dillingham, died of lung cancer in 2002 at the age of 49. Elizabeth was 19 at the time. Samantha met Tom, now 68, in the mid-1970s while they were both studying theatre in Sacramento. They had their first child, Colin, now 47, in 1977 and married a year later. Elizabeth was born in 1982, but the couple separated in 1985, finalising their divorce two years later. Samantha was granted primary custody, with the children visiting Tom on designated weekends and summers until their teenage years, when Elizabeth moved in with him full-time. Samantha never remarried, while Tom wed actress Rita Wilson in 1988. The couple share two sons, Chet Hanks, 34, and Truman Hanks, now 29. The 10: A Memoir of Family and the Open Road' by E.A. Hanks is set for release on 8 April. A Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist has become the latest to leave The Washington Post amid Jeff Bezos' overhaul of the opinion section. Eugene Robinson, 71, announced on Thursday that he is quitting the storied newspaper over the Amazon founder's plan to have the Opinion page focusing only on support for 'personal liberties and free markets'. He said in an email to his colleagues that the reimagining of the page 'spurred my decision that it's time for my next chapter,' according to the New York Times. 'I wish nothing but the very best for the paper and for all of you,' Robinson wrote. 'I won't be a stranger and I'll be reading your unparalleled work every day,' he vowed. In a statement, a spokesperson for The Washington Post categorized Robinson's abrupt departure as a 'retirement,' The Wrap reports. 'For 45 years, his reporting and commentary spanned continents and beats, earning countless recognitions, including a Pulitzer Prize,' the spokesperson said. 'Eugene's strong perspective and impeccable integrity have regularly shaped our public discourse, cementing his legacy as a leading voice in American journalism.' Eugene Robinson, 71, announced on Thursday that he is resigning from The Washington Post He cited Jeff Bezos' plan to have the Opinion page focusing only on support for 'personal liberties and free markets' as his impetus to leave Robinson has since confirmed to Fox News that he is only retiring from The Post, and not from journalism in general. His announcement comes just months after he spoke out against Bezos' directive. 'For many of us, this is, to quote Elon Musk, a "fork in the road moment" because these kinds of strictures - whatever they turn out to be - are not what we had signed up for,' he said on MSNBC's Morning Joe, where he served as a chief political analyst. 'This is not the way we have worked to produce what is, I believe, objectively the best opinion section in American journalism.' Robinson had joined the paper in 1980, and switched over to the opinion section in 2005. Just four years later, he won a Pulitzer Prize in Commentary for his columns on the 2008 presidential election. He has since become a vocal critic of President Donald Trump - even as Bezos began a friendship with the commander-in-chief. In 2017, for example, Robinson hit out at Trump as a 'weak, narcissistic man.' More recently, in February, he wrote that the president 'tramples the Constitution, vandalizes the federal government and trashes our vital international alliances.' Robinson had joined the paper in 1980, and switched over to the opinion section in 2005, winning a Pulitzer Prize four years later for his coverage of the 2008 presidential election Robinson was a vocal critic of President Donald Trump - even as Bezos struck up a friendship with the commander in chief. They are pictured here with Satya Nadella, Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft, in 2017 It was just weeks after Robinson published those remarks that Bezos announced his overhaul of the Opinion section and said that opinion editor David Shipley had been axed over his refusal to get on board with the decision. In the weeks that followed, veteran columnist Ruth Marcus also announced her resignation from the paper after her new bosses would not let her publish a piece slamming Bezos for interfering with the editorial process - which she later published in The New Yorker. 'I thought that it was important to put my reasons for disagreement on the record,' Marcus wrote in her essay before lamenting that journalistic freedoms were being 'dangerously eroded' under Bezos and the new opinion editor, Will Lewis. 'I love the Post. It breaks my heart to conclude that I must leave' she said as she claimed Bezos' business interests with the Trump administration were playing a role in his decision making at the paper. Many other opinion staff have left the newspaper in recent months, with Bezos firing the opinion section's editor David Shipley in February when he refused to comply with his new directive, and veteran columnist Ruth Marcus releasing a scorched-earth essay about why she quit last month Scores of other columnists left the newspaper after Bezos refused to run an endorsement of former Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of the presidential election and decided not to run a cartoon showing caricatures of Bezos, Mickey Mouse and others offering bags of money to Trump. Meanwhile, the Blue Origin founder and his fiancee Lauren Sanchez were seen traveling to Mar-a-Lago ahead of Trump's inauguration for dinner with the then president-elect. Footage shared on X shows the couple holding hands and walking alongside Trump as they greet other guests. Bezos also announced he would donate $1 million to Trump's inaugural fund, and when Trump was finally sworn into office in January, Bezos stood prominently by his side. Ever since, Bezos has been slowly edging away from his paper's liberal leanings with his decision to change the opinion page and his refusal in February to back out of running a $115,000 front page advert targeting DOGE Chief Elon Musk. The Trump administration apparently appreciates what Bezos has done, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt praising his efforts last month. 'It appears that the mainstream media, including The Post, is finally learning that having disdain for more than half of the country who supports this president does not help you sell newspapers,' she claimed. 'It's not a very good business model.' Raging George Clooney showered f-bombs on a Morning Joe producer after star Mika Brzezinsky claimed Barack Obama put him up to an anti-Biden op-ed, it's claimed. The Hollywood heavyweight, 63, a top fundraiser for the Democrats, is said to have flown into a frenzy over a Morning Joe segment following Biden's disastrous debate against Donald Trump last summer. Clooney had piled onto calls for Biden to exit the race with a blistering New York Times op-ed where he said the then-president was 'not the same man' he once was, and said Democrats wince when seeing him in front of cameras. Morning Joe Brzezinski suggested that Clooney had been instructed to publish the piece by former President Barack Obama, who was said to have been pulling the strings in ousting Biden from the race. Brzezinski said in a segment: 'This wasn't George Clooney... I think that Barack Obama has a lot of influence.' After the segment aired, Clooney reportedly flew into a rage at MSNBC over the allegation and called a producer to vent his fury, according to upcoming book Unchartered: How Trump Beat Biden, Harris, and the Odds in the Wildest Campaign in History from journalist Chris Whipple. Clooney reportedly shouted at the unnamed producer: 'How the f*** could you let her link me with Barack Obama saying he made me write the op-ed?' When the producer denied involvement, Clooney continued: 'You f***ed me... you're my friend. You should have stood up for me.' After Morning Joe host Mika Brzezinski publicly questioned George Clooney's call for Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race last summer (pictured), the actor reportedly flew into a rage at the show's producers Clooney, 63, is a top fundraiser for the Democratic Party and has often waded into politics in recent years Clooney piled onto calls for Biden to drop out of the race following his disastrous debate against Donald Trump in June An excerpt of the upcoming book was published by independent journalist Tara Palmeri on her Substack Red Letter, revealing how Clooney lost his head at the MSNBC producer for questioning his op-ed. After being berated by Clooney, the producer reportedly shot back: 'George, this is not a f***ing movie. 'There's no script. It's just not a movie where you go script page to script page.' 'F*** you!' Clooney responded, according to the book, to which the producer told the actor to 'f*** yourself.' Their hostile exchange reportedly continued in multiple phone calls across several hours, and at one point the producer told Clooney he couldn't control what hosts say all the time. 'This is a morning talk show on a cable channel. Nobody gives a f*** if we say he should get out or if he should stay in,' they said. 'Nobody f***ing cares. It's skywriting. It's f***ing gone. George, I told you before, we'll try and take care of it tomorrow morning. I promise you.' When Clooney said he no longer knew if he could 'trust' the producer, he was told: 'Well, f*** you. If you don't trust me, stop f***ing calling me.' Clooney scathed Biden in an op-ed following his debate struggles against Donald Trump, and said the president was 'not the same man' he once was Clooney was reportedly upset at the way he was portrayed on cable news, to which a producer told him 'this is not a f***ing movie' It comes as Clooney has made media rounds in recent weeks to promote his Broadway play Good Night, and Good Luck, based on the movie of the same name he starred in, co-wrote and directed nearly 20 years earlier. In an appearance with CBS's Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Clooney again waded into politics as he said he was 'raised a Democrat in Kentucky.' Clooney shared his first time voting was when he cast his ballot for Democratic incumbent Jimmy Carter in the 1980 election, which Ronald Reagan won. He said, 'I lost with some Bushes and I won with some Clintons and Obamas,' adding, 'You know, this is Democracy.' While neither Clooney nor Colbert mentioned Trump by name, the Oscars winner addressed Democrats losing the election. 'Well I don't know, what am I supposed to do? Storm the f***ing Capitol?' he said referencing the January 6 2021 insurrection, prompting applause from the crowd. He also added an unexpected direct message to Trump, without saying his name: 'Good for you. I hope you do well because our country needs it, and we will meet you in 3.5 years and see where we go next.' Some Hollywood watchers think Clooney may have his own political ambitions. His 2014 wedding to British-Lebanese lawyer Amal Alamuddin and the subsequent birth of the couple's twins Ella and Alexander have given the star a picture-perfect family. CNN black sheep Scott Jennings goaded fellow panelist Richard Quest into removing his shoe as they debated Donald Trump's new tariffs live on-air. Jennings and Quest joined CNN NewsNight with Abby Phillips on Thursday to discuss how Trump's tariffs will affect the global economy. 'The economic consequences are going to be on the whole world,' Quest, who is British, passionately said. 'This is an experiment that should not have been taking place.' Jennings cut off Quest to say the American public 'knew' tariffs were coming, as the 47th president promised it on the campaign trail. 'No, I never expected this madness,' Quest, who has talked about the tariffs on several CNN shows, interjected. 'They expected Donald Trump to enact tariffs, he did it in his first term,' Jennings retorted. As the panel broke out into chatter, Quest rose above them all to claim Trump's doings are 'economic vandalism.' 'I think a lot of working-class Americans would say what was done to them was economic crush,' Jennings shot back, prompting Quest, who is CNN's Business editor-at-large, to take off his shoe. Scott Jennings and Richard Quest (pictured) joined CNN NewsNight with Abby Phillips on Thursday to discuss how Trump's tariffs will affect the global economy. The conversation grew so heated that Quest took off his shoe to make a point The British anchor said the jobs that will be brought to America to avoid tariffs aren't actually the jobs the country needs or even wants. 'Here is a shoe,' he said after taking off the garment. 'It's my shoe, right! It is made in China. You talk about these luxury products, but you take your shoe off and see where it's made. 'Made in China, made in Vietnam. This is going to be 34 percent more expensive,' he said, pointing toward the outerwear. 'This is an ordinary shoe, bought in a discount store.' Later in the conversation, Jennings admitted that tariffs were a 'game' and that those willing to drop their tariffs against the US 'should be rewarded.' 'I do think that if an American ally comes to the table, like Israel did, and say: "We're totally eliminating our tariffs," we should immediately reward that,' Jennings said. 'Israel did that, and guess what they did to Israel?' Phillips piped in. 'They slapped them with a 17 percent tariff.' 'I know,' Jennings said. 'I'm saying we should treat them the same.' While he was speaking, Quest seemed to be having a hard time keeping his composure while the two conversed. Jennings (pictured) argued Americans knew tariffs were coming, but Quest retorted that Trump's plan didn't make sense. He took off his shoe to show it was made in China and that now everyday goods would skyrocket in price Quest retorted that Jennings' suggestion that all tariffs be equal on both sides defeats Trump's objective of adding manufacturing jobs and output in the US. 'The president is not going to get his other renaissance in manufacturing and renaissance of new jobs because of the level playing field. You make goods and services where it is economically where it is advantageous to do so,' he said. 'Some of this does not make logical sense,' Phillips agreed. Trump slapped at least 10 percent tariffs on all countries sending the markets plummeting and plunging the global economy into uncertainty. But the president's dramatic announcement on Wednesday does not just come at a steep cost for investors. It's expected to have a whopping price tag for American consumers. The conservative advocacy group Advancing American Freedom found that the Trump tariffs are the largest peacetime tax hike in U.S. history. The group, founded by former Vice President Mike Pence, estimates the plan will cost American families more than $3,500 a year. Trump slapped at least 10 percent tariffs on all countries sending the markets plummeting and plunging the global economy into uncertainty The analysis noted the price tag would easily erase three years' worth of pay raises for most families. It also found that major purchases such as a new home or car could cost families $7,000 more. The Trump administration has argued Americans won't be financially impacted and have pointed to some tariffs imposed during the president's first term. Those tariffs were specifically targeted and did come at a cost on certain products. Advancing American Freedom said that Wednesday's move was ten times the size of tariffs imposed during Trump's first term. It also warned the tariffs would completely wipe out the entire value of the Trump 2017 tax cuts for the bottom 40 percent of workers just as the president and Republicans are pushing to make the cuts permanent. The View's panel had a rare moment of agreement as they all said alleged CEO assassin Luigi Mangione does not deserve the death penalty if convicted. The panelists agreed that Mangione could be rehabilitated as they discussed attorney general Pam Bondi's decision to seek the death penalty for federal charges the 24-year-old alleged killer is facing. 'I personally think if convicted, Luigi Mangione should spend his life in jail. I do not see him as a candidate for the death penalty,' said Alyssa Farah Griffin, the lone conservative on the panel. 'He's a first-time offender and he's young. He's somebody prison systems are meant to rehabilitate and to punish. He is somebody who could be rehabilitated while serving his sentence of life in jail,' she added. Co-host Sara Haines echoed the sentiment, explaining that life in prison would be a worse punishment than death. 'Our federal maximum security prisons are not a fun place to be, and that's where he would be,' Haine said. 'I tend to think the greater punishment in what he did is to stay alive and live with that. Im a big believer in people having to live with themselves and the choices theyve made, and their surrounding neighbors in places like that.' The View's panelists agreed that UnitedHealthCare CEO alleged killer Luigi Mangione does not deserve to get the death penalty if convicted The panelists said that as a young, first-time offender, Mangione should be rehabilitated 'I personally think if convicted, Luigi Mangione should spend his life in jail,' said Alyssa Farah Griffin, the lone conservative on the panel Meanwhile Joy Behar said the decision by president Donald Trump's attorney general could hurt the GOP. 'Hes very popular, this guy, there could be a backlash,' she said of Mangione. 'All Im saying is, politically, it could be a backlash against Republicans to give him the death penalty.' Sunny Hostin, on her part, questioned the basis of AG Bondi's decision. 'It just seems like the attorney general is acting, really, against our institutional standards, which is what this administration is doing,' said Hostin, who is a former prosecutor. 'I was a little surprised this is where the Trump Justice Department started.' Bondi said earlier this week that her office would push for the ultimate punishment, describing Thompson's assassination in December as 'premeditated and cold-blooded'. 'After careful consideration, I have directed federal prosecutors to seek the death penalty in this case as we carry out President Trump's agenda to stop violent crime and Make America Safe Again,' Bondi said. Joy Behar said the decision by president Donald Trump's attorney general could hurt the GOP Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement that her office would push for the death penalty against Mangione, describing Thompson's death in December as a 'premeditated, cold-blooded assassination' Mangione is accused of gunning down UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson (pictured) outside a New York City hotel on December 4, 2024 Mangione remains behind bars at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, and is housed in the same unit as other famous faces including Sean 'Diddy' Combs and Sam Bankman-Fried. He is being charged in federal court, allowing prosecutors to seek the death penalty as it is outlawed in New York, where Mangione allegedly shot and killed UnitedHealthCare CEO Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel on December 4 last year. Mangione was met with an outpouring of support after his arrest as morbid fans vented their fury with the healthcare system, and Bondi said in her statement that she believes Thompson's murder was 'an act of political violence'. 'Mangione's actions involved substantial planning and premeditation and because the murder took place in public with bystanders nearby, may have posed grave risk of death to additional persons,' Bondi said. CNN's black sheep and resident MAGA supporter, Scott Jennings, had a hilarious reaction to President Trump's recent tariffs that sunk the stock market. Jennings, a frequent conservative contributor on the network, joined anchor John Berman on Friday's broadcast of CNN News Central with Meghan Hays, a Democratic strategist, to sound off on the impact of Trump's tariffs. At the end of the segment, the stock market ticker was displayed on the screen near Jennings, who hid under the table in an effort to escape it. Berman jokingly apologized to Jennings for having the stock market ticker in front of him on screen. 'Why didn't you put it by Meghan? Can we just shove it to the other side of the screen? I don't understand. I feel like you did this on purpose,' Jennings joked. Berman coyly responded that moving the ticker to the other side of the screen won't change the problem for Republicans. When the camera panned out, the ticker was still positioned near Jennings and Berman joked that it was 'following' him. 'Literally! Let me just get down here,' Jennings responded as he hid under the table to escape the plummeting stock market. Scott Jennings joked that he didn't want the stock market ticker in front of him while commentating on CNN Jennings jokingly hid under the table to escape the plummeting stock market while discussing Trump's tariffs Trump announced a 10 percent tariff on imported goods on April 2, branding the date 'Liberation Day.' The move has been slammed by economists for raising prices 'And as if to make the point,' Berman concluded before thanking Jennings and Hays for being on the broadcast. Before Jennings' comedic outro, he offered a lukewarm stance on Trump's tariffs, noting, 'If its right, it will be the ballsiest thing that ever happened, and if its wrong, the consequences will fall on one shoulder.' Although Jennings has offered criticisms of Trump in the past, most notably the president's role in the January 6 insurrection, the CNN commentator backed him in the 2024 election. He wrote in an opinion piece for the Los Angeles Times in November that even though Trump 'tested' his fortitude to the Republican party, he would still be voting for him. Since then, Jennings has supported Trump's policies on numerous CNN panel discussions. However, he was hesitant to fully support Trump's tariffs during Friday's broadcast. In response to a question on whether the tariffs were a 'good bet,' Jennings replied, 'we'll find out.' Jennings did stand firm that Trump was 'betting his presidency' on the tariffs adding that the issue is, 'the longest held political and economic belief that he's [Trump] ever had.' Hays, however, said that it was 'confusing' why Trump would decide to implement tariffs as the stock market was soaring when he took office. Jennings typically defends the president's actions, but offered a less enthusiastic take to Trump's tariffs Jennings sounded off on Trump's tariffs with Meghan Hays (left) on John Berman's (middle) segment on CNN She added that the tariffs would negatively impact the middle class and could hurt Trump's approval rating. Jennings argued that the tariffs were 'just one part' of the president's economic strategy. He compared the tariffs to an apple tree, noting that even though there might be negative short-term impacts, the policy is meant to help Americans over an extended period of time. Jennings echoed a similar stance during an appearance on CNN NewsNight with Abby Phillips on Thursday. He got into a tiff with British journalist and CNN's Business editor-at-large, Richard Quest, on the economic consequences of Trump's tariff policy. Jennings argued that American voters knew that the tariffs were a part of Trump's economic plan when they voted for him in November. Quest fired back that he 'never expected this madness,' and slammed the tariffs as 'economic vandalism.' He argued that the tariffs won't result in more American jobs and even took off his shoe to illustrate that most products are made outside of the country. 'It's my shoe, right! It is made in China. You talk about these luxury products, but you take your shoe off and see where it's made,' Quest said. 'Made in China, made in Vietnam. This is going to be 34 percent more expensive,' he said, pointing at his shoe. Jennings also discussed the tariffs on NewsNight with Abby Philip and argued about the policy with British journalist and CNN's Business editor-at-large, Richard Quest Trump announced the highest tariff hike since 1930 on April 2, which was branded by the administration as 'Liberation Day.' The 10 percent tariff on all imported goods is taking effect on Saturday with additional tariffs beginning on Wednesday. Trump claimed that the tariffs would ensure fair trade, prioritize US manufacturing, and address trade imbalances. However, the stock market has plummeted as a result of the tariffs and economists have warned that consumers will see higher prices due to Trump's policies. Prices for a variety of goods will be impacted including grocery items, electronics, and auto parts. Private investors daring to inspect their investment platforms are in for a nasty shock. Since Covid-19 was inflicted upon the world five years ago, the price of investment funds and shares has moved relentlessly upwards. The boom largely has been driven by Wall Street. Overseas ownership in US assets hit $26 trillion, or almost 90 per cent of the American total output. The US equity markets account for three quarters of the MSCI World Index. Three companies Apple, Nvidia and Microsoft are valued more highly than London's enfeebled stock market. If, like this writer, you followed legendary investor Warren Buffett into Japan, one would be 9 per cent poorer. The FTSE 100 avoided the worst in Thursday trading. Hard times: Chancellor Rachel Reeves will have trouble to get pension funds to invest in riskier assets But investors chose to take defensive action before retreating to their country seats for the weekend, sending the London market down 5 per cent yesterday. Finding method in the Donald Trump madness is hard. The fiercely free market Wall Street Journal compares 'Liberation Day' to Richard Nixon's decision to blow up the Bretton Woods system of fixed exchange rates in 1971. The Economist calls it 'Ruination Day'. Nobody is sure whether Trump and his billionaire team of advisers are engaged in a negotiation with perceived trade sinners or really mean to shatter global supply chains. Could there possibly be a silver lining? Growth spurts don't go on forever and maybe slowing US and global momentum could be the detox desired. In Britain, the yield on two- and five-year bonds has slipped below 4 per cent and the return on the ten-year tumbled to 4.38 per cent. The bank rate, at 4.5 per cent, could follow. That will lower the cost of servicing the national debt and make it easier to finance 299.2billion of gross gilt sales in the 2025-26 fiscal year. Gyrations in equities will make it harder for the Chancellor Rachel Reeves to require pension funds to invest in riskier assets. Changing places The departure of BP chairman Helge Lund will not be regarded with astonishment. His stewardship has been disastrous for shareholders who have seen 20billion wiped off BP's value. Lund's biggest mistake was failure to put the brakes on Bernard Looney's over-embrace of green at a time when returns on climate change technologies were in dispute. BP back-pedalled when much of big oil doubled down on extraction. BP's stock exchange announcement included guff about wanting to enable 'an orderly and seamless handover'. Reality is that Lund's leadership is discredited by setbacks on his watch, and he has been under pressure from activist Elliott to change direction. Climate change enthusiasts wanted him out after Looney's successor Murray Auchincloss recommitted to oil and gas. Lund says he can hang around until 2026. One suspects that senior non-executive Amanda Blanc will engineer change before then. Fighting spirit The under-pressure Competition & Markets Authority has found a way to approve French-based Safran's 1.4billion bid for Wolverhampton-based Collins Aerospace, maker of innovative flight control systems. Selling off UK leading edge aerospace tech at this moment, when Europe's defence readiness is on a sharp upward projection, is wrong. Britain needs the best tech in the UK, especially if the way forward is the next generation Typhoon or Tempest Eurofighter on the BAE platform. America's F-35 Lightning could well be a victim of trade wars. Not for the last time, for sure, President Trump has sent the world into a frenzy like one of those wooden or plastic spinning tops we were given for Christmas as youngsters. Be it east or west, Europe or the UK, Trumps imposition of tariffs on countries far and wide has caused widespread consternation and indignation. Although it can be argued that the UK has got off lightly with tariffs of 10 per cent applied to most goods exported to the United States (China has been hit with an equivalent 34 per cent charge), the portents arent good. Ominous, scary more frightening than a Stephen King horror book. Job losses look likely, especially in the UK steel and car making industries where premium 25 per cent tariffs apply. Some of the companies behind the countrys most iconic (and successful) brands will be hit hardest as their ability to export to the US is compromised: the likes of AstraZeneca, BAE Systems, Burberry, Diageo, Jaguar Land Rover, and Rolls-Royce. The creme-de-la creme of UK plc. Its all so worrying that Sir Keir Starmer called in business leaders at the crack of dawn on Thursday to discuss the tariffs. Ive instructed my team to move further and faster on the changes I believe will make our economy stronger and more resilient, Sir Keir said. For the time being, no mention of miracles, but they could well be needed to steer the economy from plunging into recession. Donald Trump's tariffs are so worrying that Sir Keir Starmer called in business leaders at the crack of dawn on Thursday TRUMP AND OUR WEALTH Yet, its not just business and economic fallout in the UK that we should fear as a result of Trumps wish to end his countrys economic surrender to foreign scavengers. Its also any adverse impact Trump has on our long-term wealth: our share portfolios, our Isas and, most importantly, our pensions the key to a financially sweet retirement. So far, stock markets worldwide have not liked Trumps protectionism one little bit. Equity prices in Japan and wider Asia all fell sharply in response while the FTSE 100 Index dropped by more than 1 per cent. When the S&P500 Index opened trading on Wednesday, it plunged more than 4 per cent. The US President slapped the UK with a 10 per cent tariff Yes, it is early days, and such falls are not catastrophic and, of course, we also cant rule out any Trump U-turns. But stock markets are likely to remain nervous for the foreseeable future as they digest the impact of the tariffs on listed businesses. It is a view shared by Doug Brodie, chief executive of Chancery Lane Retirement Income Planning. He believes markets worldwide will remain volatile for at least the remainder of the year. For pension savers, the response to Trumps tariffs should be calm and measured, especially for those where retirement is a long way into the future (much longer than the President will remain in the White House). DEFINED BENEFIT PENSIONS For those who contribute into a pension set up on a defined benefit basis, there is no need for alarm. These schemes, a rarity among private companies but commonplace in the public sector, are tightly regulated and are run conservatively in order to meet their obligations: namely, paying members a retirement income based on a mix of years at the coal face and their salary (final, career average or something in between). Market shenanigans have no impact on these lucky people, says Brodie. DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PENSIONS It's those who save into a defined contribution (DC) pension fund that need to do some thinking: reassessing whether their pension is set up to meet their retirement dreams. The success of these plans depends on how much is contributed and the performance of the underlying investments. They come in two forms. They can be set up by yourself, usually as a self-invested personal pension (SIPP), and you then determine what goes into the pot: shares, bonds, or investment funds. They are popular with the self-employed and those who like to manage their pension portfolios. But the biggest form of DC fund is the workplace pension where contributions are made monthly by both you and your employer. In most cases, workers money is invested into a default fund managed by an external fund manager although you can request to invest in other funds offered by them. Default funds invest in shares, bonds, and other assets such as gold. For everyone currently investing into a DC plan (SIPP or workplace), the big must is to keep on contributing. Why? You get the boost of tax relief on your contributions (minimum 20 per cent). In the case of a works pension fund, you also benefit from your employer putting money into your plan. Free pension funding. But stock markets are likely to remain nervous for the foreseeable future as they digest the impact of the tariffs on listed businesses Laith Khalaf, head of investment analysis at trading platform AJ Bell, says: Pensions are long-term savings vehicles and market gyrations are part of the journey. Buy, hold and take comfort in the fact that your monthly payments will pick up more shares and funds at cheaper prices when markets fall. Yet, while continuing with contributions makes sense, NOW is also a good time to take stock of how your plan is invested. For holders of SIPPs, diversification is key. That means exposure to shares, bonds, and alternatives such as gold. Diversity will temper the impact of the current volatility in stock markets, says Jason Hollands of wealth manager Evelyn Partners. Asset allocation will also depend upon your attitude to investment risk and the time you have left until you wish to access your fund (currently, the earliest you can touch it is when you hit 55 rising to 57 from April 2028. The shorter that time period, the less risk you will likely want to take. By way of example, Victoria Hasler of investing platform Hargreaves Lansdown, says a cautious saver would probably want some 60 per cent of their fund in bonds the rest in UK overseas equities. Meanwhile, an adventurous saver (maybe with time on their side) would want more money in equities (a tick over 10 per cent for UK equities, just short of 80 per cent overseas). She adds: As you get closer to accessing your pension, de-risk it by moving it into cash. For those with workplace pensions sitting in a default fund, now is a good time to find out the asset split and see whether you are comfortable with it. Most default funds reduce investment risk for employees by changing the asset mix with age. John Greenwood, editor of magazine Corporate Adviser, says two of the biggest default funds are Avivas My Future Growth and Legal & Generals Target Date Fund. Between them, they have pension assets of 50billion and nearly 3million members. The asset mix of these funds for someone with 30 years left until they hit state pension is as follows. For Aviva, 22 per cent bonds; 5 per cent (UK equities); 73 per cent overseas equities. The equivalent figures for L&G are 12, 5 and 73 with the balance in property and infrastructure. For someone with just five years to go, the asset mixes are more bond oriented. For Aviva, 61 per cent in cash and bonds, 3 per cent in UK equities and 36 per cent in overseas equities. For L&G, the respective figures are 48, 2, 21 and 29 per cent in other assets. Greenwood says: Workplace pension defaults, with big exposures to equities, tend to perform better than those with a more balanced asset mix. But when markets fall, balanced funds tend to suffer lower falls. If you think your default fund is being held back by a cautious investment strategy, you can switch. Most workplace pension providers offer a range of alternative investment options. ONE FINAL THOUGHT Finally, if you need one more reason to keep paying into your pension fund, think Rachel Reeves. Come the autumn Budget, when the countrys finances are in near tatters, she might well take a sword to tax relief on pension contributions. Enjoy its boost while its still around. The chairman of BP is quitting having overseen a disastrous flirtation with green energy but only after a boardroom bust-up over the timing of his exit. With the company under mounting pressure over its dismal share price performance, Helge Lund told the board he planned to stand down 'most likely during 2026' having chaired the firm since 2019. However, the Mail understands that board members and some investors wanted him to leave earlier, sparking an argument that culminated in yesterday announcement. BP said it has started searching for a replacement but analysts warned it will not be easy. And Ashley Kelty, analyst at investment bank Panmure Liberum, branded the job 'a poisoned chalice'. The process is being led by Amanda Blanc, the boss of insurance giant Aviva who also serves as BP's senior independent director. 'Having fundamentally reset our strategy, BP's focus now is on delivering the strategy at pace, improving performance and growing shareholder value,' said Lund. 'Now is the right time to start the process to find my successor and enable an orderly and seamless handover.' Lund's job has looked precarious ever since notorious activist investor Elliott Management built a near-5 per cent stake and made clear it was seeking change. Shares have fallen 25 per cent on the Norwegian's watch wiping 20billion off BP's value and lagged behind rivals such as Shell and US giants Chevron and ExxonMobil. BP shares dropped 7.4 per cent amid global market turmoil yesterday. Lund backed a shift towards green energy under former boss Bernard Looney only to help chief executive Murray Auchincloss perform a dramatic U-turn and double-down on fossil fuels. 'If any major executive was on borrowed time, it was Lund,' said AJ Bell investment director Russ Mould. 'The occupant of that role is often the first to carry the can for corporate failures. Having overseen the company's recently abandoned energy transition strategy it's a surprise it has taken this long for Lund to announce he is stepping down.' And suggesting Blanc might have her work cut out in finding a replacement, Kelty added: 'Until it's clearer as to whether Auchincloss has a future or is a dead man walking, it's hard to see who may fit or want the role.' Lund, 62, was paid 882,000 from his role at BP last year and since taking over as chairman has received over 5million. He is set to receive another 888,000 this year in fees. He is also chairman of Danish drug giant Novo Nordisk where he was paid nearly 490,000 last year. Lund also briefly led British fossil fuel group BG Group, raking in a fortune when it was bought by Shell in 2016 for 47billion. Lund's exit comes as Auchincloss continues to pivot BP back towards oil and gas in a U-turn of the pro-green strategy drawn up by his predecessor Looney, who was sacked in 2023 after failing to disclose relationships with colleagues. It started out just like any other Saturday night in the Chi Omega sorority house at Florida State University. Some of the students had gone home to visit their families for the weekend while others stayed out late on dates. Others had hunkered down in their rooms, working on their college assignments. Karen Pryor - then Karen Chandler - had spent the day working her job at a local department store before going to her parents home in Tallahassee to cook them dinner that evening. Her dad asked her to stay the night but she had a project due on Monday. So she went back to the sorority house and did some work until her roommate Kathy Kleiner came home. It was around 11pm when I turned off the lights and went to sleep, Pryor tells DailyMail.com in an exclusive interview. And that was it. The next thing I remember, I woke up in the hospital. A few more days would pass before Pryor learned the horrifying truth: that she had survived an attack by one of Americas most notorious serial killers, Ted Bundy. Karen Pryor - then Karen Chandler - testifies during Ted Bundy's trial in July 1979 Ted Bundy in Leon County jail in Tallahassee, Florida, in July 1978 after being charged with the murders of two Chi Omega students At around 3am on January 15, 1978, Bundy broke into the Chi Omega house and went room to room, attacking the young women as they slept in their beds. First, Bundy attacked Margaret Bowman, savagely beating her with a piece of firewood and strangling her with pantyhose. He then entered Lisa Levys room opposite, beating and strangling her too, raping her, sexually assaulting her with a hairspray bottle and biting her buttocks - leaving behind his teeth marks on her butchered body. Next he skulked into the room that Pryor and Kleiner shared and began beating them both around the head. At that moment, a sorority sister returning from a date pulled up in a car outside. The car lights spooked Bundy, causing him to flee to an apartment a few blocks away where he unleashed another attack on dance major Cheryl Thomas. By the end of his violent rampage, Levy and Bowman were both dead. Pryor, Kleiner and Thomas were rushed to hospital with brutal injuries but, thankfully, survived. Karen Pryor (seen on Dr Oz in 2019) remembers nothing about the attack that left her with a fractured skull My skull was fractured. Every bone in my face was broken and my front teeth were knocked out, Pryor says. Apparently, after that first blow I had a reflex and crossed my arms over my face so the next blow broke my arm and crushed my fingers on my right hand. She adds: Now, my face is wired together. Pryor is among the lucky few to have survived an encounter with the heinous serial killer. Over a four-year reign of terror from 1974 to 1978, Bundy murdered at least 30 women across seven states. And those are only the murders he confessed to. The true extent of his crimes - and how many years he preyed on women - will likely never be truly known. Before his Tallahassee rampage, Bundy had already been convicted of aggravated kidnapping in Utah after victim Carol DaRonch managed to escape and identify him as her attacker. Serial killer Ted Bundy in the courtroom at his murder trial where he represented himself Photo of evidence gathered by police in one of the cases against Ted Bundy. The serial killer confessed to killing 30 victims While serving his sentence, he was transferred to Colorado to face charges for the 1975 murder of nurse Caryn Campbell but managed to escape by jumping out of the window of a courthouse law library and going on the run. He hid out in the mountains for several days before he was recaptured. Back behind bars in another jail in Colorado, Bundy then managed to escape a second time on December 30, 1977. Within two weeks of that latest jailbreak, the man who was then placed on the FBIs Ten Most Wanted list had made it all the way to the East Coast and the Chi Omega sorority house. News that a violent serial killer was at large targeting young women and girls hadnt reached the students of FSU by January 1978 and Pryor had never heard the name Ted Bundy before that harrowing night. At the time, the Florida native was in her senior year at FSU, where she majored in clothing and textiles and had lived in the sorority house since the fall of her freshman year. For Pryor, Greek life was something that ran in the family. My great aunt, my grandma, my cousin and my mother all belonged to sororities when they went to college, she says. Margaret Bowman (left) and Lisa Levy (right) were murdered by Ted Bundy in the attack on the Chi Omega sorority house So I wouldn't say I was determined to join a sorority but I kind of wanted to check it out. And when I went through rush, I really felt a connection with Chi Omega and the girls there. She looks back with fondness on life in the sorority. We really were a well-bonded group of girls, she says. Everybody spent a lot of time together We ate together, went to classes together. It was sort of like living with your extended family. Around 50 students were living in the house when Bundy tore apart this extended family forever. Even after 47 years, Pryor has no memory of what happened that night. It is only in some dark moments that she has had some vague flashes or bursts of memories. Pryor's roommate Kathy Kleiner also survived At times, when Ive been upset I would have this flash of memories but that's it. Things came to me in little pieces, she says. I remember the sort of feeling of being lifted on a stretcher and going down stairs and being lifted into the back of an ambulance. But I don't remember seeing that, its just sort of the feeling, she says. Then I remember I was wearing a t-shirt belonging to the guy I was dating at the time and I remember them cutting it off me. I was also wearing my grandfathers ring and I remember them taking it off my finger. She adds: I don't remember getting to the hospital or being treated. I dont remember the surgery. I dont remember any of that. I turned out the light Saturday night and I woke up Monday morning in a hospital and all I could tell was I was in a hospital bed and there were white curtains all around me. But I had no idea what had happened or how I got there or why I was there. She adds: I remember trying to say hello, trying to get someones attention - but my jaw was wired together. As she lay there in her hospital bed, Pryor says she had a feeling something bad had happened - so much so that she instinctively didnt ask many questions. I dont think I really wanted to know, she says. Several days later, her dad broke the devastating news that her two friends had been murdered. I just cried. I didnt know what else to do, she says. Some of the victims of Ted Bundy: (top row, left to right) Kimberly Leach, Caryn Campbell , Margaret Bowman , Debbie Kent, (second row, left to right) Laura Aime, Roberta Parks, Georgann Hawkins , Donna Manson, (third row, left to right) Lynda Healy, Janice Ott, Denise Naslund, Susan Rancourt, (fourth row, left to right) Katherine Devine, Melissa Smith, Brenda Ball, and Lisa Levy Margaret was an art history major who had dreams of working at one of the big museums, like the Met in New York City. She would have been perfect for that, Pryor says. She was beautiful in a sort of Cher way. If I had to say one word about Margaret it would be chic. Lisa, meanwhile, was a sweet girl, really funny - just a joy to be around. I don't think I ever saw her without a smile on her face, Pryor remembers. She just really had that sort of joy of life. While grieving two of their own - and with Bundy still at large - the Chi Omega sisters moved back into the sorority house just one week on from the murders. Heres the amazing part about everything: the girls demanded they go back and live at the house, Pryor recalls. I really wasn't sure what I wanted to do but then I thought you know what? If they could come back, then I could too. I could not believe they all came back its pretty incredible. Ted Bundy was on the FBI's Most Wanted List after he escaped from Colorado jails twice and fled to the East Coast She adds: 'I think they were much braver than I was - they saw what happened and they moved back before he was caught,' she says. I don't have that mental picture or memories of the horrible part of it... I had no bad memories of the house. The girls that were there saw things that I can't imagine. As soon as she was well enough, Pryor joined her sisters back in the Chi Omega house the following quarter. She ended up moving into Lisas room - living in the very room where her friend was killed that tragic night. People have often asked me if I felt a ghost or anything and I say no. But if there was any presence, it would be love, she says. Lisa and Margaret wouldnt wish anything bad on us. If it was me I would want other people and everybody there to live their best life and I think thats what they would have wanted from us. It was around a month after the attack when Bundy was captured for the final time. By then, he had claimed the life of another victim, 12-year-old Kimberly Leach. A woman looks out of the second story balcony of the Chi Omega sorority house on January 15 1978 - hours after Bundy broke in and went on a violent rampage But even with Bundy finally behind bars, the nightmare was far from over for his victims. The depraved killer - who had studied law at the University of Puget Sound and the University of Utah - decided to represent himself at his trial. And so, in a horrifying twist, Pryor was subpoenaed to sit for a deposition where she would not only come face-to-face with her attacker - but endure him personally grilling and questioning her. Pryor recalls the moment she entered the classroom-like room and sat across from the man who had murdered her two friends and tried to murder her too. She believes it was all part of Bundys ploy to continue to have control over his victims. I think he wanted to see the girls uncomfortable and squirm and upset, she says. So I didnt want to give him the satisfaction that he bothered me at all or that I cared about him one bit. She adds: It was a bit like when I got married. I was walking down the aisle and all I could think was dont trip, dont trip. There, in the room with him, it was like be still, be still, be still. Just answer the questions and be still. Bundy seen in 1977 at the Pitkin County courthouse, in Aspen, Colorado - before he escaped and headed to Florida Florida State University's Chi Phi fraternity celebrates the execution of Ted Bundy with a large banner that says 'Watch Ted Fry, See Ted Die!' There was nothing remarkable about the heinous killer sat across from her, she recalls. But she did notice one bizarre thing about his behavior. The weird thing was he referred to himself in the third person. So he would say things like have you ever met Mr Ted Bundy? she recalls. Pryor and the other survivors were forced to face Bundy once again when they were called to testify at his trial in the summer of 1979. The day she took the stand, Pryor remembers making a conscious decision not to even look at him. I didn't want him to think I cared anything about him. He was invisible, she says. At the end of his high-profile trial, on July 24, 1979, Bundy was found guilty of the murders of Levy and Bowman, attempted murders of Pryor, Kleiner and Thomas and burglary. Days later on July 31 - Pryors birthday - he was sentenced to death. Ted Bundy's 1968 Volkswagen Beetle, in which he lured many victims and committed many of his crimes That was quite a birthday present, she says. I cried he had sentenced all those girls to death and it was good to know that he would be sentenced to death now. After sitting on death row for a decade, on January 24, 1989 - almost exactly 11 years to the day that he terrorized the Chi Omega sorority house - Bundy was strapped to the electric chair in Floridas state penitentiary and executed. His final words were: I'd like you to give my love to my family and friends. For Pryor, his execution finally brought 'relief that it was over' and 'closure.' But, it also brought mixed feelings - of empathy for the killer's own family. I felt the most pain actually for his mother because I knew she loved him and believed in him until the end that Lisa and Margaret died is horrible and Ill never get over it in a way but at least their parents and family are proud of who they were and can live with the joy and memory of their daughters, she says. His mother didn't have that and I cant imagine how much pain she must have been in. Ted Bundy cross-examines witnesses during his own trial for the Chi Omega sorority house murders and attempted murders Ted Bundy is seen in his final interview the day before his execution in January 1989 She adds: This is going to sound weird but I'm not sure I hate him. I kind of think of him as like a rabid dog. I don't know that mentally he could have helped himself. Almost five decades on, Pryor says she doesnt look back on what happened with any sense of regret - not even on the decision to return to the sorority house, rather than stay with her parents, that night. Nothing about my life I regret, including going home that night,' she says. I think if I had, [my roommate] Kathy would be dead. Its sort of a It's a wonderful life moment. For one little change, the outcome could have been very different. She went on to finish her degree at FSU and pursue her dreams in fashion, getting a job in a buying program at a popular department store before later moving into a career in industrial relations. She has now been happily married for 44 years and has two children and three grandchildren. Karen Pryor (pictured) reveals she moved back into the Chi Omega house soon after the attack and vowed that 'no man is going to do something that makes me afraid' And she remains close to several of her sorority sisters. I really have had a wonderful life, she says. Nobody has to feel sorry for me or pity me. For Pryor, she refuses to let that night in 1978 or her depraved attacker rule her life. About the time I decided to move back to the sorority house, I decided dammit my life is not going to change. No man is going to do this to me, no man is going to do something that makes me afraid or makes me change what I want to do with my life, she says. Thats it. Im stubborn, hard headed and that was it. I was going back to the life I had planned. I wasnt going to change my life. Netflix's hit Adolescence has undoubtedly served as a harrowing wake up call as to how easily young people can be consumed with radicalising content online. Viewers and critics have heaped praise on the hard-hitting drama for its raw and unnerving depiction of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, played by Owen Cooper, who is accused of murdering his classmate Katie. It has prompted a national conversation about online safety among young people and how so called incel culture can warp the views of some teenage boys who may feel ostracised at school. In its simplest form, an incel or involuntary celibate refers to someone unable to find a romantic or sexual partner despite wanting one. But, in recent years, a more radicalised sub-culture of incels has formed online, characterised by an extreme hatred for women due to intense feelings of sexual frustration. Mass killer Elliot Rodger was supposedly 'idolised' by the incel community following his murderous rampage in the US in 2014 and was referenced by gun fanatic Jake Davison who killed five people in Plymouth in 2021. One lawyer, who represents people accused of sexual offences, told MailOnline his clients - some as young as 12 - are carrying out crimes after taking part in 'dangerous' behaviour on the internet. Online forums have seemingly become hotbeds for repulsive and - at times - illegal behaviour, with certain sites often plagued with horrific fantasies about harming, killing, torturing and raping women. MailOnline has viewed some of the posts made in these incel forums, many of which were shockingly easy to access. Adolescence tells the story of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, played by Owen Cooper, who is accused of killing his classmate Katie Adolescence star Stephen Graham - who portrays Eddie Miller - with Owen Cooper (left) -who plays his son, Jamie Marcus Johnsone represents people accused of sexual offences, He says his clients are becoming 'younger and younger' and are taking part in 'dangerous' behaviour online Many included references to harming women by torturing and killing them, while others spoke of committing sex acts against their own classmates at school. 'What women need to be subjected to is everlasting torture of their souls with never-ending despair. Death should be too good for them. Their pain and agony should be constant, unbearable, inescapable and eternal,' one post read. 'If hell is real, I feel like the majority of people there are women lmao,' another adds. Members also talk of their 'suffering' at the hands of women and outline a series of disturbing sexual fantasies about women in their own lives. Others also convey a strong anti-Jewish and antisemitic hatred, with some users making references to 'Jewkrainian sluts' and posting Nazi symbols. There are also explicit paedophilic remarks in some threads where members express a desire to have sexual relations with teenagers and even young children. In one especially vile remark, a user states they would 'love' to have sex with a two-year-old. Another disgustingly tells the group they are 25 and finds 15-17-year-olds attractive, while a third claims there is 'nothing wrong' with finding young girls 'hawt'. Many posts included references to harming women by torturing and killing them, while others spoke of committing sex acts against their own classmates at school Others also convey a strong anti-Jewish and antisemitic hatred, with some users making references to 'Jewkrainian sluts' and posting Nazi symbols There are also explicit paedophilic remarks in some threads where members express a desire to have sexual relations with teenagers and even young children Multiple posts in the online forum also criticise Adolescence itself, claiming the show is 'bulls***', 'woke' and is not based on any 'research into inceldom'. That is despite the show's writer Jack Thorne revealing he had had actually witnessed some 'disturbing' content online himself and went down a number of 'online wormholes' in order to gain perspective for Jamie's character. 'The idea that incels and the manosphere are somehow mind-controlling young boys into violence is next-level fearmongering,' one user wrote. 'They have done zero research about incels and just wanted to make a show calling us evil', another added. A third user took aim at the series for 'using the same tired excuses and easy narratives' portraying men as the villains and women as the victims of male violence. They claimed 'society is anti-male' and it is women who are 'vastly privileged' while 'men are systematically disadvantaged in many areas in life'. Forum members also defended Jamie's behaviour after he was bullied by Katie in school after asking her out. Some also seemingly blame Katie for her own death. 'The show, besides being inaccurate garbage regarding incels, also spreads the deeply harmful and damaging message that bullying is right and even justificable, while resistance and defending yourself against bullying is wrong and evil.' another post read. Multiple posts in the online forum also criticise Adolescence itself, claiming the show is 'bulls***', 'woke' and is not based on any 'research into inceldom' Stephen Graham, who plays Eddie Miller, is seen in his son's bedroom holding his lad's teddy Marcus Johnstone specialises in criminal defence representation for people accused of sexual offences through his firm PDC Solicitors. He has years of experience working on sexual offence cases with a range of clients and has shared his insights into how younger people are becoming more and more influenced by the content they see online. Mr Johnstone told MailOnline: 'Whereas so many years ago, my clients would be older. I'm dealing with clients that are becoming younger and younger. Some children even as young as 12 or 13 years old. 'And what I'm seeing is sometimes really quite extreme, dangerous behaviour and almost a brainwashing, where they become addicted to the sites. 'They can't cope without the phone with the constant connection to social media. So it becomes a drug. It becomes an addiction. 'And the sites are designed, in my view, to addict people. They want the kids to be addicted so they can't stop using their site. 'When they get drawn into it, and they're on the sites which sort of encourage a type of behavior - whether it's a sexualised behavior, racism, sexism, hate against Jews or whatever it might be - it's very easy to make that person believe that what they're doing is right. 'When you've got somebody referring to women that should be raped or should be killed, if this is a belief that's on there, then the question is does that become real in their own mind? Jamie Miller (played by rising star Owen Cooper) is left looking stunned after armed police burst into his bedroom and arrest him on suspicion of murder in episode one of Adolescence A worried Jamie Miller is seen in a police station after being detained by police Graham appears emotional as he portrays Eddie Miller after his son, Jamie, is arrested 'That takes on a different perspective and then they can become really quite dangerous. 'Because someone of that young age doesn't really think through the consequences of what they may be thinking or potentially doing and we are starting to see that behaviour now carried out in reality.' In recent years there has been alarming number of mass murders across the globe that have supposedly been influenced by this terrifying online world. In 2018, Alek Minassian killed ten people in Toronto, Canada, claiming he had been radicalised online by incels. Minutes before his murderous rampage, Minassian also posted on Facebook, claiming the 'Incel rebellion' had begun and praised the actions of Isla Vista killer Elliot Rodger. The 22-year-old went on a shooting rampage in Santa Barbara, California, in May 2014 after posting an online hate manifesto in which he lamented being a virgin and being rejected by women. Rodger killed six people and injured 14 others in the violence before turning the gun on himself while he was being pursued by police. Rodger had said in a video posted before the rampage: 'I'm 22 years old and I'm still a virgin. I've never even kissed a girl. I don't know why you girls aren't attracted to me. But I will punish you all for it.' Elliot Rodger, who killed six people and injured 14 others in a killing spree in California that he blamed on women In the UK, Jake Davison, 22, shot five people including his mother and a three-year-old girl in Plymouth in 2021, before killing himself. An inquest jury heard how he held strongly misogynist views and despair about his own life in the months before the mass shooting. The jury also heard how the killer was fascinated by mass shootings, serial killers and violent heroes of 'incel' ideology and reportedly also made reference to Rodger. Southport killer Axel Rudakubana was also described by his classmates as an 'incel' who refused to speak to girls at school before his horror knife rampage at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in July 2024. The teenager, who was 17 at the time of the attack, murdered Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Bebe King, six, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, in the incident which was described in court as 'pure evil.' One pupil who attended the same school as Rudakubana told the Sunday Times: 'He didn't have any friends [...] because he didn't really fit in. 'He never spoke to girls. When my mates saw the attack they guessed it was because he was [...] like an incel.' In January, Sir Keir Starmer argued the Southport case demonstrated there is now a different kind of terrorism and has suggested expanding the definition to address 'extreme violence carried out by loners, misfits, young men in their bedrooms'. Plymouth shooter Jake Davison (pictured) opened fire on strangers, killing five people before turning the gun on himself Axel Rudakubana, 18, was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 52 years for the murders of three young girls and the attempted murder of ten other people The Online Safety Act, which was published into law in October 2023, has sought to tackle illegal content online and 'requires all companies to take robust action against illegal content and activity' when posted on their platforms. This includes content that amounts to extreme sexual violence, inciting violence, child sexual abuse and controlling or coercive behaviour. For companies not fulfilling their duties under the law, Ofcom has been given powers to issue them with million pound fines and hold them criminally liable for failing to comply with any enforcement notices over its child safety duties. In the most extreme cases, the law - with the agreement of the court - can require payment providers, advertisers and internet service providers to stop working with a site to prevent it from generating money or being accessed in the UK. One forum, which has over 30,000 members and more than 15 million posts, urges users not to post any 'defamatory, abusive, hateful or threatening' content. It also asks members to refrain from sharing content that 'encourages unlawful activity or otherwise violates any laws' and threatens to remove any content from the site at any time. But undoubtedly such rules are being flaunted, with some posts including criminal behaviour such as paedophilia, homophobia and racism, still appearing on the site despite being posted up to five years ago. 'The law is constantly playing catch up. I mean the sexual offences Act was written in 2003, which is really before the internet and before all these new offences,' Mr Johnstone explained. Sir Keir Starmer (pictured) has suggested expanding the definition to address 'extreme violence carried out by loners, misfits, young men in their bedrooms' The Online Safety Act, which was published into law in October 2023, has sought to tackle illegal content online (Stock image) 'And there's so much development within the online crime that it's difficult for the politicians to introduce suitable laws to try and deal with it. 'But even then how do you deal with it? Because if you introduce a law to try and stop one offence, then the criminals will find a way around it. That's just the way it's always been. 'The sad truth, I should say, is you can't stop it. 'The internet can be used for great things, but equally, it creates monsters. It creates monsters of websites that creates monsters of people, and you just cannot stop that. 'If kids have got mental health problems, if they feel lonely, if they feel left out, if they've not got friends, then of course they'll turn to these sites. And then these sites can groom people any way they want to. 'There's just no easy answer to it.' Mr Johnstone highlighted that while these kinds of forums can be used by police to gather evidence, using these communications to bring charges against them is not so straightforward. This process is made increasingly difficult when officers have to prove that a suspect is the person making these posts, as there are no requirements for members on such sites to prove their identity before setting up an account. One forum, which has over 30,000 members and more than 15 million posts, urges users not to post any 'defamatory, abusive, hateful or threatening' content It also asks members to refrain from sharing content that 'encourages unlawful activity or otherwise violates any laws' and threatens to remove any content from the site at any time. But some posts such as this one which explicitly references paedophilia, still appear on the site despite being posted up to five years ago Mr Johnstone said: 'These online sites can be important, as in effect, they're used by the police as evidence of the criminal activity. 'So they'll say "look, you're communicating. You're putting something on here about raping women" and so on, and that might may be an offence. 'But then how do they prove that my client is the person responsible? And that's where it gets really difficult. 'It largely comes from online on some of these devices, because they want to try and check if it's on my client's computer or his phone. 'But then it goes away for forensics, that's another 12 months or so before the results back.' He added that many of the companies running these sites are also located overseas and officers may have to coordinate with multiple overseas agencies to find the information relevant to their investigation. 'A lot of sites are owned by companies abroad, and so you've then got any problems, because that company abroad may not do anything about it, may not report it,' Mr Johnstone explained. 'If it's California, for example, some of the sites are owned by American companies, then that will usually be reported to the FBI. 'They then report it to a child protection agency based in Canada, who then may report it to a Child Protection Agency in the UK, who may report it to the Met police, who filter it down to the local police, who then eventually send somebody around to knock on the door. 'You know, that might be a year later.' Mr Johnstone added: 'It's different type of policing to what you know, policing was 10, 15, 20 years ago, before the internet. 'Although there are a lot of good officers out there, there's very few that are really geared up to know how to deal with online crimes and criminals take advantage of that. 'I think you do need huge numbers of more police officers, but specially trained officers to deal with online offences. 'It's completely different to your normal style of policing. But all we really hear from the politicians is "we're going to get more bobbies on the beat". You know, visible police officers, crackdown on offending. 'But in reality, most of these serious offences are not committed on the street. 'They're just committed in somebody's bedroom over the internet, and you can't detect those offences with more bobbies on the beat.' As Ladies Day of the Aintree Grand National Festival gets under way on Friday, punters are backing horses trained by Willie Mullins, according to BetVictor. Aintree Ladies Day Punters who supported Mullins horses at Aintree on Thursday will have cleaned up with the bookmakers as the Irish trainer had a dominant day of winners across the races. Gaelic Warrior relished the extended distance to take the Brooklands Golden Miller Chronograph Bowl Chase for the Mullins team at Aintree. Trained by Willie and partnered by his son and assistant Patrick, the 11-4 chance was patiently ridden as he stepped up to three miles and a furlong in the Grade One and jumped well throughout. He made his move ahead of the home straight and was happily able to reel in Grey Dawning to make his rider the first amateur to win the contest. Stage Star took third place. Speaking on the main market movers on Friday morning, BetVictors Sam Boswell said: Ladies Day is upon us but punters are siding with one man - Willie Mullins. Following Thursdays four-timer, Quai De Bourbon has halved in price from 14/1 to 7/1 for the opening Grade One Novices Chase (1.45pm). The same goes for Argento Boy who is 8/1 from 16/1 for the Grade One Sefton Novices Hurdle (4.40pm), looking to land another winner for the Paul Townend and Willie Mullins combo. Elsewhere on the card there are some big-price movers, most notably Grandeur dAme for Alan King in the Topham (4.05pm), who has been backed from 33s into 12/1. Hoping for an outsider in the lucky last the 2mf Handicap Hurdle (5.15pm) Alnilam has been supported from 25/1 into 12/1 for the Olly Murphy team. Aintree Day Two Market Movers 13:45 Quai De Bourbon 7/1 from 14/1 16:05 Grandeur dAme 12/1 from 33/1 16:40 Argento Boy 8/1 from 16/1 17:15 Alnilam 12/1 from 25/1 What is Ladies Day at Aintree? Ladies Day, held every Friday at the Aintree Festival, is a day where high heels meet horse hooves, fascinators flirt with the wind, and fashion risks are taken with the courage of a jockey facing Bechers Brook. Fashion First (and sometimes fashion last) Ladies Day is less about the horses and more about haute couture meets hen party. Its a runway of bold prints, bolder hats, and the boldest decisions involving fake tan and five-inch stilettos on grass. Think glamour with a northern twist - theres no rulebook, only vibes. The hats get taller, the skirts shorter, and the heels increasingly regrettable by 3pm (and replaced by flip flops). Theres even a Style Award for the best-dressed. Winners often defy both gravity and weather forecasts. Yes, theres racing too Amid the selfies and Prosecco, actual elite horse racing is happening. Big names, fast horses, and serious bets. But lets be honest: unless your horse is called "Champagne Surprise" or "Boots Off By Noon", youre probably just here for the atmosphere. Vibes, Energy, and Questionable Dance Moves The crowd is fizz-fuelled and fabulous. Expect live music, laughter, and spontaneous dance-offs in the grandstand. Theres always that one mate who insists on keeping her shoes on until the bitter end. Shes a hero. Shes also limping by 5pm. Tabloid Heaven The media love itbecause where else can you get high fashion, high drama, and high heels sinking into turf all in one place? Social media explodes with pics, from flawless glamour shots to "how did that even happen?" candids. Its a national treasure and a style jungle where anything goes and nothing is judged. Ashley Walters has attracted rave reviews for his portrayal of the detective leading the dramatic raid and questioning of the schoolboy murder suspect in Netflix phenomenon Adolescence. But if his character provides Adolescence with its moral authority, this is strikingly at odds with Ashleys own earlier life experiences: in his youth and young adulthood the actor was, by his own admission, very much a bad boy himself. Such was the extent of his often chaotic personal life that he spent months in prison in his teens, battled alcoholism and went on to father eight children by three women. Ive got this whole story behind me which means I bring a bit of edge to the table, the British star, 42, has explained previously of the grit his acting seems to have. Im not naive: things contrived and I capitalised. In the talked-about drama Ashelys character has his own parenting issues - with a complicated and often exasperating relationship with his own sometimes troublesome teenage son. But in his own teens he gave his own mother, civil servant Pam, plenty to worry about. This was despite early success which repaid the commitment of that mother who started taking her only son from their home in Peckham to part time drama classes at the world renowned Sylvia Young Theatre School in Marylebone when he was just seven. Teachers at the independent theatre school, whose alumni include the likes of Billie Piper, Rita Ora and Dua Lipa, were quick to spot Ashleys talent. By the time he was 13, Ashley, who was also attending his local comprehensive, landed his television debut in the role of Andy Philips on the long-running television BBC series Grange Hill. Ashley Walters, 42, played drug kingpin Dushane in the hit Netflix drama Top Boy More recently he starred in Netflix's Adolescence as policeman DI Luke Bascombe earning rave reviews In the talked-about drama Walters character has his own parenting issues. But in his own teens he gave his own mother, civil servant Pam (pictured right), plenty to worry about During his early teens, he went on to star in the BBC film Storm Damage and portray Stephen Lawrences brother in the 2000 docudrama The Stephen Lawrence Story - all while gaining 10 GCSES. By the time he was 18, his career took a turn and he became a rapper, starring in the Battersea-based hip hop group So Solid Crew performing under the name Asher D. Following the groups number one hit single - 21 Seconds - Ashley decided to step back from music to return to his first love of acting. But this was interrupted aged 19 when he was found in possession of a gun after he was arrested following a bust-up with a traffic warden. After pleading guilty to possession of a firearm, Ashley spent nine out of his 18 month sentence in a young offenders institute in the capital. At the time, Ashley already had two young children with former partner Natalie Williams - his first son Shayon, now 25, and his first daughter China, 23. This period was so troubling for his still traumatised mother Pam and other members of their extended family that she and they are reluctant to discuss it now. And for Ashley himself it is a time in his life that he is eager to forget - and not happy to be asked about. By the time he was 18, his career took a turn and he became a rapper, starring in the Battersea-based hip hop group So Solid Crew performing under the name Asher D But this was interrupted aged 19 when he was found in possession of a gun after he was arrested following a bust-up with a traffic warden. Pictured: Ashley arriving at Southwark Crown Court for his hearing Pictured: Ashley with five of his eight children along with his granddaughter Ashley with his wife Danielle Isaie who have two children Amaiya-Love, 10, and River, 8 Pictured: Ashley's first son Shayon, 25, who he fathers with former partner Natalie Williams The Top Boy star battled alcohol addiction for years after his 18-month stint in a young offenders' institute in 2002 (Ashley and his younger children are pictured) Ashley pictured with his son River earlier in 2020 Its a distant memory, he told the Evening Standard last month. I didnt want to be there. Obviously. But it was a moment in time. It happened. Ashley views prison as just another challenge he had to go through after growing up in hardship, raised by a hard working single mother alongside his adoring grandparents. And since day one his mother has always been his biggest supporter - posing next to billboards of his face when he was starring in Top Boy or sharing pictures of him on television. Always proud of my boys achievements in this challenging sector, she wrote. The jail time, however, is not something the grandfather-of-one regrets, claiming it helped shape his career to date. He said: It was something I had to go through to be sitting here now, talking about the projects Im doing. Other than that? Im over it. I have no regrets because Im a better man for it. Starting afresh - and taking a step back from those friends who were a bad influence to him - Ashley continued to pursue his acting career, getting cast regularly in television shows and films. I made a conscious decision when I came out of prison that I was going to change my circle and I have been very vigilant about the people I have around me, he told The Times. You find that a lot of people start resenting you for your lack of contact because they dont understand how much pressure youre under and how hard you have to work. It wasnt until 2011 when he was thrown back into the public limelight again, quickly emerging as one of Britains most talented actors for his role in the Hackney drugs drama Top Boy. For the shows five series, Ashley played gun-toting gang leader Dushane roaming around a fictional east London estate. It was a role that years earlier he might have avoided. Following his success in Bullet Boy - a crime drama about inner-city youth and knife crime - he was determined not to be typecast or hired for roles based on stereotypes about his skin colour. That changed, however, with Top Boy, with the initial script wowing him. Dushane was intelligent. Until then our crime shows depicted criminals as unorganised, he said. But Top Boy gave insight into what was behind crime, rather than just the outcome. Top Boy went from success to success, reaping in awards at the British Academy Television Awards. As Ashleys fame continued to soar, he also met the love of his life, fellow actor Danielle Isaie in 2013. Top Boy went from success to success, reaping in awards at the British Academy Television Awards. Pictured: Ashley as gang leader Dushane in the Netflix series For the shows five series, Ashley played gun-toting gang leader Dushane roaming around a fictional east London estate As Ashleys fame continued to soar, he also met the love of his life, fellow actor Danielle in 2013 Following their wedding, Ashley - who also has two daughters Antonia and Ashleigh with another woman - and his wife welcomed two more children, Amaiya-Love, 10, and River, eight, as well as being a stepfather to Danielles other son Junayde. Despite his career success, Ashley says he still had a dependence on alcohol - one which was only stopped five years ago after his six-year-old daughter asked him to move out of their family home. Speaking to ITV during the Adolescence press junket he said: I am nearly five years sober now. I had a good 15 years out there you know drinking, partying, stuff like that and it took its toll on me. You know on my body, it took a bit of a toll on my career but more importantly on my family, on my wife and my kids. The day I decided to get help was the day that my six-year-old daughter at the time knocked on my bedroom door and said that she didnt want me to live there anymore. And that was hard to take, it hit me in the heart. But for a lot of people suffering from addiction your rock bottom is you rock bottom, youre only going to do it in your own time. Nobody is going to tell you to do it and for me that was it, looking at my daughter and realising I was damaging her maybe in the same way I had already damaged my older children and I just wanted to change. Adolescence made television history as the first streaming show to top the UKs weekly TV ratings breaking the dominance of the traditional broadcasters The first episode of Adolescence was watched by 6.45 million people in its first week, according to ratings body Barb The next day he stopped drinking and smoking and has been sober ever since. The family also took the decision to take a step back from the busyness of London, instead moving to Herne Bay in Kent with his two youngest girls and their small dog for a slower pace of life. Following Top Boy the star had considered quitting acting all together - trading it in for a role behind the camera. But Stephen Graham and Jack Thornes script for the huge Netflix hit Adolescence changed his mind - even creating a new love for the job hes had since a child. I came into this job personally thinking that I was going to quit acting, he told The Radio Times. So before I was like, Ive had enough. He wanted to try out directing but it was his co-star Stephen that convinced him to come and audition. So I came, didnt realise how intense it was going to be, but it was so intense, he added. The challenge was great. I was crying into my script most nights in the apartment, so scared Im not going to remember the material. But actually, coming out of it, I grew. There was a newfound love for the craft and what I do. Walters wanted to try out directing but it was his co-star Stephen Graham convinced him to audition for the role (Left to right) Christine Tremarco, Faye Marsay, Jo Hartley, Amelie Pease, Owen Cooper, Ashley Walters, Robbie O'Neill, Hannah Walters and Stephen Graham attend the Adolescence special screening at BAFTA Adolescence made television history as the first streaming show to top the UKs weekly TV ratings breaking the dominance of the traditional broadcasters. The first episode of Adolescence was watched by 6.45 million people in its first week, according to ratings body Barb. While the second episode of Adolescence was seen by 5.94 million, with BBC Ones The Apprentice and Death in Paradise third and fourth respectively in the weekly chart with almost 5.8 million each. The Netflix hit has topped the streaming giants most viewed charts in 71 countries, and amassed 24.3 million views worldwide in its first week. Peter Dutton's campaign team allegedly removed LGBTQ flags from a mental health foundation before he visited to promise $6.5million in funding. The Opposition Leader attended the Headspace office in Melton in Melbourne's western suburbs on Wednesday to pledge the cash boost, which the Coalition claims will support 2,500 more young people in the local community. 'This important investment builds on the Coalition's proud record of strengthening the Headspace network and will be an important investment in Melbourne's west to ensure access to mental health support for young Australians,' Mr Dutton said. But it has now been alleged that the Opposition Leader's campaign team removed LGBTQ rainbow flags from a table in the venue before he arrived. A social media user claimed Mr Dutton's entourage 'removed all queer flags' from the table. 'Hence why he was photographed in front of fish,' they alleged. 'The (Headspace) staff had to bite their tongue because they need $6.5 million.' A spokesperson for Melton Headspace said: 'I can confirm that several items were removed from the table by the Opposition Leader's team ahead of yesterday's media announcement, including a tall water jug and some flags. The Opposition Leader Peter Dutton attended the Headspace office in Melton in Melbourne 's western suburbs on Wednesday to pledge the cash, which the Coalition claims will support 2,500 more young people in the local community A spokesperson for Melton Headspace confirmed that some flags were removed from the table (pictured above) by Mr Dutton's team before he would speak. It's understood that this was done to ensure clear camera shots 'I can also confirm that no posters, artworks or floor-standing flags were removed, nor was there any request to do so.' It's understood the flags were removed to ensure clear camera shots. But Rodney Croome, long-time LGBTQ rights advocate and spokesperson for Just.Equal, suggested that Mr Dutton's team should have considered the optics given that young LGBTQ Australians had a 'higher mental health risk than other young people because of the discrimination, stigma and shame they experience'. 'The reason Headspace has pride flags on display is to show young LGBTQ people who need its services that they are safe and supported,' he said. 'If Mr Dutton is sincere about reducing mental health risk among young Australians he would want Headspace to show more rainbow flags, not hide them. 'To provide funds for mental health while shoving rainbows into the closet is to give with one hand and take with the other.' A report published by Headspace in 2023 found that young people who identify as LGBTQ are more likely to seek support for mental health issues than their heterosexual peers. A Coalition spokesperson said it 'proudly supports youth mental health centers, including headspace'. Rodney Croome, long-time LGBTQ rights advocate and spokesperson for Just.Equal, said: 'If Mr Dutton is sincere about reducing mental health risk among young Australians he would want Headspace to show more rainbow flags, not hide them' (pictured: Mr Dutton speaking to members of staff at the Melton Headspace) 'In the Budget in Reply Peter Dutton announced a $400million package for youth mental health to expand headspaces,' they added. 'This is on top of our commitment double Medicare-subsidised sessions from 10 to 20.' The flag imbroglio comes after Mr Dutton was slammed last month for using a 'disgraceful' term historically used to insult gay people to describe Anthony Albanese. Speaking at an event hosted by the Lowy Institute think tank in March, the Opposition Leader said the Prime Minister's response to the Chinese navy's recent manoeuvres around Australia was 'limp-wristed'. 'It was the weakest, most limp-wristed response you can see from a leader,' Mr Dutton said. The term 'limp-wristed' is an outdated term used to describe gay men and is considered by many to be a homophobic slur. According to the Cambridge dictionary, the phrase is 'an extremely offensive word used to describe a man whose behaviour is thought to be typical of a gay person'. Foreign Minister Penny Wong, who is gay, told the ABC that Mr Dutton 'is a bloke who opposed marriage equality, so it's an unsurprising use of language from him'. Independent MP Allegra Spender accused the Liberal Party leader of promoting 'offensive stereotypes about gay men'. A spokesperson for Dutton said: 'It was a phrase that shouldn't have been used, and no offence was intended from Mr Dutton.' The art of delivering a good haircut using advanced scissor skills, cut throat razors and added extras like hot towel shaves and flames to singe fine hairs is a time-honoured tradition originating in the Ottoman Empire. But stylists who have trained for years to achieve the necessary standard complain they are now being priced out of the market by rivals co-opting the 'Turkish barber' brand despite not being properly trained. Police have warned of criminals infiltrating the industry by setting up barber shops as front companies to launder the proceeds of crimes like drug dealing. Mob violence spilled onto the streets of one quiet Welsh neighbourhood this year where six Kurdish barbers operate. And this week, enforcement teams across the West Midlands raided a string of Turkish barber shops and seized more than 500,000 in illegal cash during a crackdown on money laundering. Evidence that many outlets selling themselves as Turkish barbers are not meeting the tradition's high standards is plentiful on TikTok, with users frequently sharing videos of their wonky haircuts and patchy skin fades. MailOnline spoke to barbers who warned businesses will market themselves as 'Turkish' to attract clients - but they might be from Iraq, Iran, Syria or Bulgaria. Real barbers say the tell-tale signs of an illicit business will be in the quality of the service. Now the true artisans are fighting back - and insisting it's time to hold back the flood of downmarket rivals flooding towns and cities across Britain. Selcuk Dokuzluoglu, who runs a Turkish barber in South Shields near Newcastle, was taught how to cut hair by his father and grandfather in Turkey before he went on to cut the hair of a Saudi Arabian prince in the UAE. He then came to England to open his shop but says more and more are appearing because businessmen think they're a quick way to make cash. Evidence that many outlets selling themselves as Turkish barbers are not meeting the tradition's high standards is plentiful on TikTok Users are frequently sharing videos of their wonky haircuts and patchy skin fades Police have warned of criminals infiltrating the industry by setting up barber shops as front companies A West Mercia Police officer speaks to a man inside one of the raided Turkish barbers in the Midlands this week The 38-year-old, who owns Royal Turkish Barber, said: 'It is all about these places trying to make as much money as they can. In this country there is competition to make more money but often the barbers are not trained properly. 'Barber shops don't make as much money as they used to and lots of these shops open but then sit empty. 'I first learned how to be a barber from my grandfather and my father and then I went to Saudi Arabia. I then came to England but over here people don't train as much.' Mr Dokuzluoglu warned that it was easy to spot a barber that was not up to the job by the quality of their haircuts. 'There is a certain style of cutting hair in Turkey and in Saudi Arabia but over here there is no style at some Turkish barbers,' he said. 'They can be very fast here and will be done in five minutes. Then clients will leave to go somewhere else and the shops wonder why they get so quiet.' More than 750 barbers opened in the UK last year despite a broader High Street downturn - raising suspicions that some are being used by gangs. South Shields is home to around eight Turkish-style barbers in a two mile radius, some of which stand mere metres away from each other. Two others claim to be Kurdish. Muhammed Saleh works for Mr Dokuzluoglu and is currently learning his trade. Selcuk Dokuzluoglu, who runs a Turkish barber in South Shields, shows a Google Maps still showing all the other shops claiming to be Turkish barbers in the area Ihesh Ghafor works at Morfose Turkish barbers and admits its hard to compete with all the rival outlets South Shields is home to around eight Turkish-style barbers in a two mile radius. There is no suggestion any of those pictured are illegitimate Barber Hewa Rahimpur, 30, was the lynchpin of a vast cross-Channel people smuggling operation He is seen here being arrested by NCA officers in East London. He was later extradited to Belgium to face trial The 35-year-old said: 'Often the Turkish barbers aren't actually Turkish. They say they are Turkish to attract clients but they might be from Iraq or Iran or Syria. 'If the owners are Turkish then the staff most likely will be, but if not, they could be from anywhere. Some staff are even from Europe such as Bulgaria and the Czech Republic. 'But Turkish barbers give a different type of service. The quality of the product is good. It's the same as a good Italian restaurant.' Ihesh Ghafor works at Morfose Traditional Turkish Barbers, which is on a busy row of shops. But the 22-year-old admits it's now hard to compete with so many other similar salons. 'There are a lot of shops popping up now,' he added. 'We are quite quiet at the moment and maybe that is because so many are opening. 'Maybe they think it's an easy job to have and the hours are quite nice to work. I think it could get to the point where there are too many.' Six Kurdish barbers shops are now operating in the neighbouring towns of Blackwood and Newbridge in the South Wales valleys and the competition is cut-throat. A brawl erupted earlier this year in the South Wales town of Blackwood over a barber that was set to open in the nearby town of Newbridge It led to mob violence two months ago leaving several Kurds behind bars awaiting trial. Magistrates heard an argument was sparked about a new Turkish barbers' shop opening in the neighbouring town of Newbridge. There have also been reports of one Kurdish barber putting in the windows of a rival as competition for customers hots up. Businessman Talid Karim Abdullah, 47, keeps out of it, opting to spend his time on nurturing a stream of regular customers who stay faithful to him. Of the six Kurdish barbers visited by MailOnline, he was the only owner to be on the premises and willing to speak. At the others we were told: 'The boss isn't here'. Mr Abdullah, owner of Style in Blackwood, said: 'There are too many here for a small town like Blackwood. I've been here for five years and it could mean I have to close down. 'I have six chairs but only three get used now, it's a worry.' Mr Abdullah complained he is paying a crippling 438 a month business rates for his barber's shop which he has taken up with Caerphilly County Borough Council. He said: 'I wanted them to understand that it is difficult to trade when there are three other barbers so close to me but they said they can't help. Marmaris is a Kurdish barbers in the town of Blackwood. The owner did not want to give his name but said he was friends with the other barbers in town Further down High Street is Mo's where a 'Full Service' of haircut, beard trim, hot towel shave, nose wax, and eyebrows and ear trim costs 35 'Barbers set up in towns because it's so easy, you don't need a license or anything to say the staff are fully trained.' Mr Abdullah has a good reputation with locals and even lets a lonely pensioner come in to keep warm every day and give him free coffee. Regular customer, father-of-three Darren Davies, 52, said: 'I come in every fortnight - it's the only one I use. 'I have tried the others but they are a bit boyish, always begging themselves up. I was in the street when all the trouble kicked off a few weeks ago. 'You don't get that here, there is a general kindness to the public. It would be a shame if they were put out of business by the others.' Across the road there are no customers in Blackwood Barbers, another Kurdish-run salon where the boss is not due in 'until next Monday'. The shop front has pictures of newly-styled male models along with photographs of well-groomed Hollywood stars George Clooney and Pierce Brosnan. Further down High Street is Mo's where a 'Full Service' of haircut, beard trim, hot towel shave, nose wax, and eyebrows and ear trim costs 35. Blackwood Barbers has pictures of newly-styled male models along with photographs of well-groomed Hollywood stars George Clooney and Pierce Brosnan Barber Omed Pirot, 30, said: 'We were the first in Blackwood, we've been here nine years, everyone knows us. 'There are four barbers working here, it's quiet in the week but gets busier at weekends. 'Lots of Kurdish barbers were set up in the country during lockdown. It is a job for unskilled labour like taxi driving and car washes. 'You watch a barber at work for four or five months and then start doing it yourself. It's not difficult. Six months after that you can be a good barber.' Mr Pirot said he was aware that Kurdish barbers have a reputation for money laundering but he said Mo's is a legitimate business. 'We take bank cards as well,' he added. Further down Blackwood's High Street and yards from a huge mural of local heroes the Manic Street Preachers is Marmaris - a Kurdish barbers named after the holiday resort in Turkey. The 26-year-old owner, who didn't want to be named, said: 'There are four Kurdish barbers in the town, we all know each other, we are friends. Darren Davies, a customer of 86 Style barbers in Blackwood Town Centre, said he enjoyed frequenting the shop 'We won't put each other out of business, we have our regular customers - we have no issues.' Three miles away in Newbridge, one Kurdish barber - who gave his name as John John, 26 - saying: 'This is my business not your business.' He later said it wasn't actually his business and the owner was not available. Meanwhile, one British-born hairdresser in the South Wales Valleys said he believed some of the Kurdish salons were fronts for money-laundering. The man, 34, refused to be named for fear of retribution, said: 'They won't put themselves out of business because it's all about cleaning money. 'I know Nigel Farage has been very vocal about it and he's got it right. 'The way it works is that one of them will be qualified which allows them to get insurance. They then empty four of five barbers who have no training at all. 'I often get customers asking me to sort their haircuts out after they've been to one of the Kurdish salons.' Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. It comes after police revealed they had raided a string of Turkish barber shops and seized more than 500,000 in illegal cash during a crackdown on money laundering. Bodycam footage shows officers smashing their way into the businesses, which are increasingly used as fronts by criminal gangs. They seized more than 500,000 in dirty cash and arrested seven people after swooping on 33 premises last month. The raids were carried out by West Mercia Police, together with Trading Standards West Midlands Fire and Rescue, Immigration Enforcement and HMRC. They formed part of Operation Machinize - a crackdown on gangs using barber shops for fraud, money laundering and selling illicit goods. More than over 6million in criminal assets have been seized in the year it has been underway. It coincides with a broader crackdown by the National Crime Agency, which has overseen dozens of raids in recent months. After displays of constant affection and a 'loving' 10-month relationship, Brianna 'Bri' Stern says she suddenly saw then-boyfriend Andrew Tate take a dark turn. The model claims the self-proclaimed misogynist started attacking her with a barrage of sickening insults, physical abuse and threats to 'ruin my life, rape me, and kill me' if she betrayed him, as laid out in her recent lawsuit. The 29-year-old has also accused the former kickboxer and anti-feminist of sending her a slew of threatening messages including: 'What's the point in having you if I don't beat and impregnate you.' Stern says the relationship unraveled in a way she hadn't seen coming, with what she claims are the shocking details revealed in lawsuit sparked by what she describes as a horrifying night in a Beverly Hills hotel where she accuses Tate of choking her to the point where she almost passed out. It was on March 11 when influencer Tate allegedly assaulted her while they had sex at the Beverly Hills Hotel, according to the filing Per the lawsuit, filed by Stern's attorneys on March 27 in Los Angeles Superior Court, the abuse included violently threatening text messages including one that read: 'I want to beat the f**k out of you.' In an exclusive interview with DailyMail.com, Stern recalls the intense fear as she desperately fled room 311 and recounts many of the graphic details in her lawsuit. The alleged assault, she says, took place in room 311 at the iconic hotel, a 780-sq-ft suite costing $3,000 per night. She says she has since been subjected to multiple death threats from fans of Tate, who has millions of followers on social media. Tate has denied the allegations and his lawyers have questioned Stern's credibility. 'My heart was beating so fast, and I was really anxious, but there was something in me that just told me, 'You need to go, run,' she tells DailyMail.com of the alleged violent encounter. She escaped in the early morning hours after Tate said 'shut the f**k up b**ch. You will never backtalk me. You are my property,' according to her suit. Their intense affair started off 'sweet, kind, and loving' but over 10 months turned 'darker' - much darker - until it exploded and flamed out in an episode of sexual violence at the famed 'Pink Palace' on Sunset Boulevard, says Stern. Now, she says, she feels 'completely shattered' and 'broken'. 'My world was flipped upside down. I was so, so, so upset, sad, scared,' she said about that night. Brianna 'Bri' Stern, who says she dated Andrew Tate for 10 months, spoke exclusively to DailyMail.com to detail what she describes as a terrifying night in a hotel where he allegedly choked her until she was almost unconscious Stern filed a lawsuit against Tate on March 27 for alleged abuse. She claims he choked her at the Beverly Hills Hotel in the early hours of March 11 until she was almost unconscious, even though she begged him to stop Stern says she was physically abused by Tate, including being choked, during a sex session on March 11 The model's filing claims sexual battery and harassment by Tate, 38, which lists chilling details of abuse - emotional and physical. She has also filed a complaint with the Beverly Hills Police Department and is seeking a restraining order. Since going public with her claims, Stern says she has been the target of multiple death threats from fans of the kickboxer-turned-social media personality. She told DailyMail.com how she first met the influencer in July last year during a content shoot in Transylvania, Romania. Stern insists she hadn't heard of Tate - or his reputation for degrading women - before she flew to meet with him and his brother Tristan, 36. She was referred by a mutual friend who described the 63 former kickboxer as a 'big teddy bear.' 'I thought he was so kind, so sweet, so warm and loving,' Stern recalls to DailyMail.com. 'Everything was great in the beginning. He even talked about how much he respected women.' Stern filed a police report accusing the self-proclaimed misogynist of sexual assault following the scary March 11 encounter where she claims he choked her during sex at the famed Beverly Hills Hotel Andrew (left) and Tristan Tate are suing 13 social media users for defamation, claiming they conspired to spread smears against the controversial influencer brothers LA-based Stern tells DailyMail.com she maintained a steamy trans-continental relationship with Tate by making repeated trips to his gated Romanian compound. He immediately began love-bombing Stern on the first day they met, she says. 'He initially stated that I was so beautiful and wanted to get to know me, and we kind of both dove into our life stories and bonded emotionally a lot on that first car ride, and he kind of, you know, came on strong,' she tells DailyMail.com. 'He was like, you're mine, I want you to be my girlfriend, you don't have to worry about anything, you're with me now. 'And I kind of thought, like, this is a little soon, but okay, I'll give it a try, we'll see. 'Some of my friends and family loved him, and they thought that he wasn't capable of hurting anyone and that's what I believed as well.' But other friends were 'more skeptical' and warned her to 'be careful.' 'We were in constant communication,' she explains. 'He told me how much he loved me every single day. 'He also talked often about how he wanted to spend forever with me and have a family with me, and I believed him.' The brothers leaving their pre-trial hearing for lifting the seizure of assets held at the Bucharest Court, in Bucharest, Romania, on September 23, 2024 The brothers were forced to fly back to their former home in Romania last Saturday to face a continuing criminal sex trafficking case there Eventually, though, Tate shed the facade of a caring boyfriend and Stern tells DailyMail.com she 'started to see other sides of him.' After filing the lawsuit, she shared a post on social media that showed what appear to be records of his threats of rape and murder. She claims that the abuse that came with his change in behavior was seemingly designed to break her will. She also revealed that he told her 'you are my property' after allegedly choking her at the hotel, a claims she includes in the lawsuit. And, in another post, she shared screenshots of messages - also mentioned in the lawsuit - alleging he told her via text that 'You will give me a child this year b**ch... What's the point in having you if I don't beat and impregnate you'. She also shared screenshots of texts Tate sent her where he said he enjoyed beating her because he found it 'relaxing'. According to the complaint, Tate once wrote to her, 'You have an attitude because you're not hot enough.' Stern alleges in the filing that Tate 'began choking her while they were having sex, but it got too rough, and although she begged him to stop, he kept going.' Stern alleges in her lawsuit that Tate 'began choking her while they were having sex, but it got too rough, and although she begged him to stop, he kept going.' 'Physically he's a good-looking guy,' says Stern of Tate. But, she now realizes 'his views' don't 'really align with women and women's rights' She told DailyMail.com that following the alleged incident, she 'had a pounding headache that was constant that I could not get to go away.' A doctor subsequently diagnosed her with 'post-concussion syndrome.' Several pictures showing Stern's bruised face were reportedly handed over to police. She reveals to DailyMail.com that she was stunned when Tate allegedly said via text that he desired to hit her. 'I didn't talk to him for four days,' she says of the couple's first 'rift.' Furthermore, she adds, 'I was completely shocked, and I was like, what is this?' Later, Tate reached out via a video call and said, 'Pookie, I was just kidding. Ha-ha, I'm Andrew Tate. It's just a joke. I would never hurt you. I would never put my hands on you.' She says she had contemplated leaving Tate prior to last month's alleged incident, but she remained 'under his spell' and said he always 'manipulated' her into staying. 'I struggled with that - with still loving someone who was hurting me. When you love someone, I think, as a woman, you want to stay with them, and it's kind of innate to our nature, but it definitely causes conflicting feelings,' says Stern. Stern's alleged experience with Tate is not all that unique. The controversial brothers have spent recent years in a Romanian prison and under house arrest while facing charges of sex trafficking in both the UK and Romania. They deny the charges. Tate is currently facing charges associated with sex trafficking young women, as well as a count of rape. But, according to the BBC, prosecutors said their travel ban lifted in February after more than two years, and on Feb. 27, they flew to Florida via private jet. On March 10, Tate spent a night at Stern's Los Angeles apartment before the horror that allegedly unfolded at the hotel the following day. Tate has amasses a cult-like following for his controversial views on women, including that they should 'bear responsibility' if they are raped. The brothers have since returned to Romania in order to comply with a Romanian court order having to do with their sex-trafficking case there. Meanwhile, his ex says, 'Physically he's a good-looking guy.' But, she now realizes 'his views' don't 'really align with women and women's rights.' And she adds, 'I really loved this person, and he told me how much he loved me every day and that we were going to finally spend every day together when he got to the US. Of the alleged incident at the hotel, Stern says afterward she was 'completely heartbroken.' 'I invested so much time, energy, emotions, love into someone that wasn't who I thought they were,' she said. 'Some red flags had gone off before, but I don't think I really had that ah-ha moment until that day. 'I trusted him explicitly. When he started to verbally speak about hitting he initially said that it was a joke, so that kind of just went away in my mind. I just believed him. I just brushed it off as this is a joke until it became my reality.' Stern, who says she was invited by a member of the 'Trump administration' to attend an April 3 event at Mar-a-Lago, says 'multiple' women have reached out to her with similar stories about Tate after she went public with her claims. Stern alleges in the filing that Tate 'began choking her while they were having sex, but it got too rough, and although she begged him to stop, he kept going' The lawsuit alleges Tate texted her 'I want to beat the f**k out of you' Stern says she was 'completely heartbroken' after the furious bust-up with Tate 'I trusted him explicitly,' says Stern of ex Tate Tate has amassed millions of online followers and a cult-like following for his controversial views on women Stern says 'multiple' women have reached out to her with similar stories about Tate after she went public with her claims 'I trusted him explicitly. When he started to verbally speak about hittinghe initially said that it was a joke,' says Stern of Tate Andrew Tate posts a video on March 4, 2025, captioned 'First day of Freedom in Miami' when he came back to the United States But she also claims has received threats from some of Tate's loyal followers on social media. 'I knew by coming forward that I was subjecting myself to danger,' she says. 'It's terrifying. But I'm still here, and I'm still speaking out about it.' She hopes to be a voice of strength to other women who may be 'experiencing the same thing - being hurt by the person that is supposed to love you and protect you.' Tate's attorney tells, Joseph McBride, DailyMail.com, 'This is a blatant cash graba desperate attempt by a sad individual to exploit Andrew's success and reputation for personal gain. 'Instead of seeking a private resolution, Ms. Stern has chosen to air her false claims in the press, revealing her true motives: money and attention, not justice. 'This is a classic example of someone weaponizing serious accusations for financial benefit, a tactic that undermines genuine victims and erodes trust in the legal system. 'We will not allow our client's character to be tarnished for profit. 'We stand ready to defend Andrew fiercely in court, where the truth will expose this baseless scheme. 'We urge the public and the media to withhold judgment until the facts come to light and not amplify a narrative crafted for headlines and financial gain.' A glamorous prison nurse has been suspended over allegations she had an inappropriate relationship with an inmate at England's worst jail. Stephanie Adair has been under investigation since November last year after she was accused of having formed a romantic relationship with convicted killer and drug dealer Jahki Crosdale at HMP Wandsworth. The 27-year-old who is understood to deny the allegations - has been temporarily banned from working in prisons, young offenders' institutes and 'any other establishment where an individual is serving a sentence imposed by a criminal court' as part of a 'conditions of practice' order set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council while they investigate. The unmarried nurse, who worked for a contractor at the west London jail, can now only work under strict supervision and must notify any future employer, educational establishment or 'any other person involved in your retraining' of the strict sanctions on her. Adair, from north London, is alleged to have had an intimate relationship with Crosdale while he was under lock and key at HMP Wandsworth for firearms and drug offences. The matter came to light in November and it's understood investigations are ongoing - with Adair expecting an update soon. The allegations against nurse Adair have left her family horrified. Her father, David Adair told MailOnline: 'Obviously we are very upset about the allegations against Stephanie, but we can't talk about the case. Stephanie Adair has been under investigation since November last year The unmarried nurse, who worked for a contractor at the west London jail, can now only work under strict supervision 'It's very frustrating. We can't say about anything about the case. 'And Stephanie can't speak to anyone about it at the moment.' Speaking from his home with his wife, Mr Adair added: 'We are very polite, decent people. We are both teachers. 'We have been unable to talk to our friends about it. 'We can't speak to anybody about it.' Crosdale, who was released from jail in October last year, also maintains he has done nothing wrong. In a bad-tempered exchange at his mother's home in east London, the 27-year-old told MailOnline: 'I have done nothing wrong. 'I've done nothing. Leave me alone.' Claims of an 'inappropriate' relationship are understood to have come to light after Crosdale put her address on court documents - though it's unclear if she had condoned or was even aware of this. Adair, from north London, is alleged to have had an intimate relationship with Crosdale while he was under lock and key at HMP Wandsworth for firearms and drug offences She was accused of having formed a romantic relationship with convicted killer and drug dealer Jahki Crosdale at HMP Wandsworth Crosdale was just 17 when he was convicted of the manslaughter of trainee plumber Charlie Burns in March 2015 and sentenced to six years prison. In 2018 Crosdale was found with 2,000 worth of class A drugs, including heroin and cocaine, as he travelled from London to Aberdeen. He pleaded guilty charges of the supply of class A drugs and jailed for a year. Crosdale was later jailed for firearms and drug offences and sent to HMP Wandsworth. The offence of misconduct in a public office carries a maximum life sentence but Adair is likely to receive about a year behind bars if convicted. In January this year, former HMP Wandsworth prison officer Linda De Sousa Abreu was sentenced to 15 months after she pleaded guilty to a similar charge when a film of her having sex with an inmate was shared online. Abreu's conviction is among soaring numbers of prison officers caught having sex with inmates. Figures obtained from the Ministry of Justice show that 19 prison staff were charged with misconduct in a public office in 2023-24 the highest for a decade. Following Abreu's conviction, HMP Wandsworth governor Andrew Davy said the actions had taken 'less than a day' to undo the many years of work on behalf of female staff in all-male prisons. The allegations against nurse Adair have left her family horrified The matter came to light in November and it's understood investigations are ongoing - with Adair expecting an update soon The Prison Officers' Association has also condemned inappropriate relations between inmates and staff. Deputy General Secretary Mick Pimblett told MailOnline: 'The vast majority of Prison staff are hardworking, conscientious and honest. 'However, this union acknowledges that there are a small number of corrupt staff working in our prisons who undermine others' work by being corrupt. 'Their corruption compromises their colleagues, the security of the establishment and themselves and makes them susceptible to blackmail and criminal activity. 'There may be reasons for this instance of corruption such as poor recruitment and lack of training, but at the end of day these staff must recognise what is right and what is wrong. 'It is very difficult to have any sympathy for them.' The Nursing and Midwifery Council told MailOnline they treat cases as confidential. A Prison Service spokesperson added: 'It would be inappropriate to comment on a live police investigation.' HMP Wandsworth was condemned as 'England's worst jail' in August last year by the Howard League for Penal Reform, citing high levels of overcrowding, self-harm, violence and seven self-inflicted deaths over the previous 12 months. Rats 'as big as dogs'. A mother pushing her child's pram down a street piled on either side with rubbish. These scenes might sound familiar to residents of Birmingham as they continue to endure a strike by refuse workers in the city. But It is what people in Glasgow had to deal with in 1975, when a mass walkout by binmen in a row over pay crippled the impoverished Scottish city. In January of that year, around 350 workers began an unofficial strike that lasted more than three months. Around a thousand tonnes of rubbish each day was being dumped, leading to fears that diseases could spread. The Army had to step in to clean up the streets and kill any rats they encountered. It was the first time that troops had been used in an industrial dispute in 25 years. A soldier from the Royal Highland Fusiliers holds a rat aloft in Glasgow after being called in to deal with a build-up of rubbish during a strike by refuse workers A mother pushes her child down a street lined with rubbish in Glasgow, March 17, 1975 The 1975 strikes came after earlier walkouts in 1973 and 1974. Refuse collectors were demanding higher wages from the Glasgow Corporation - the forerunner to the city council. One mother-of-five said at the time: 'It really is terrible. Right along the whole scheme [housing estate] it's the same. 'People are getting people 'round to dump it over somewhere else. Kids are burning it over in the spare bit of ground. 'The smell is atrocious. We've already got the rats starting to get into our houses. That's one thing we don't want. Even the flies are going mad.' Eventually, the Labour government stepped in and deployed 1,500 troops from the Royal Highland Fusiliers to help clear away what had become 70,000 tonnes of waste. They removed more than half of the build-up before the strikers voted to call off the action and return to work on April 14. A man wearing a gas mask, among huge piles of rubbish, during a strike by dustcart drivers in Glasgow, March 5, 1975 Dustmen in Glasgow hold up a dead rat and rabbit during the strikes Masked soldiers pose for a picture as they clean up rubbish in Glasgow's East End A Glasgow woman uses a brush to sweep outside her home during the strike Children play amidst piles of rubbish in Glasgow during the 1975 strike The Daily Mail's coverage announcing the end of the strike after 13 weeks of action In early April, the strikers finally voted to call off the action, on condition that the Army move out. One of the strike leaders said at the time: 'We recommend the return to work because of domestic distress. 'We have been starved into surrender. We went into this dispute with honourable intentions. Glasgow Corporation have ratted on this.' The mass walkout in Birmingham began on March 11 in a row over plans by the City Council to reduce waste collection roles and pay in a bid to shore up its finances. Rats have thrived in the city's filth - with pest control expert Will Timms, known locally as Birmingham's 'rat man', revealing some are now as big as small dogs. Birmingham council claims the daily blocking of depots by Unite union picket lines has meant vehicles deployed as part of a contingency plan are struggling to leave to collect waste. The council has gone as far as declaring a major incident, which it says allows it to increase the availability of street cleansing and fly-tipping removal with an extra 35 crews around the city. The move was backed by communities minister Jim McMahon, who said the Government 'stands ready' to respond to any request for extra resources This is the first picture of a depressed RAF pilot who killed four members of a family in a suicidal motorway crash. Richard Woods seen here in flight fatigues and helmet drove 1.1 miles in the wrong direction on the fast lane of the M6 near Tenby in Cumbria for at least 57 seconds as motorists had to serve to avoid him on October 15, 2024. Woods, 40, died in the head-on collision with Jaroslaw Rossa, 42, and his partner Jade McEnroe, 33, and his sons Filip, 15, and Dominic, seven. But on Thursday Cumbria Police said the RAF pilot who was four times over the legal drink-drive limit and was found with a two-thirds empty gin bottle in his Skoda Fabia car, would have been charged with manslaughter had he survived. Miss McEnroe's seven-year-old son, Arran, survived his injuries after a workman jumped out of his Transit van and used a jack to smash the rear windscreen of Mr Rossa's Toyota Yaris and pulled him out from the burning vehicle. Richard Woods seen right in flight fatigues and helmet drove 1.1 miles in the wrong direction on the fast lane of the M6 near Tenby in Cumbria for at least 57 seconds as motorists had to swerve to avoid him on October 15, 2024 Jaroslaw Rossa and sons Dominic and Filip were killed along with Jade McEnroe. Her son Arran Martin, right, was the only survivor The M6 crash on the northbound carriage near Cumbria saw a fireball engulf the Glasgow-bound Toyota Richard John Woods, 40, was almost four times the legal drink-drive limit when his blue Skoda Fabia ploughed into a Toyota Yaris on the M6 northbound carriageway Arran was seriously injured and had to be airlifted to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle (pictured: An air ambulance at the scene) Detective Sergeant Deborah Story, of Cumbria Police's serious road collision investigation unit, told the inquest into their deaths that Woods would have been prosecuted on four counts of manslaughter had he lived. She said she noted that Mr Woods went from 'putting himself' against larger vehicles where only he would be likely to be harmed to 'putting himself' against smaller vehicles in which the 'likelihood of harm to other people is significantly high'. The officer went on: 'My assessment of all of the evidence was that Mr Woods deliberately caused the collision. 'Had Mr Woods survived, regardless of any injuries, I would have sought four charges of manslaughter.' Woods widow was not available for comment when contacted on Thursday at the family home in Ely, Cambs. Woods, originally from Hexham, Northumbria, was a flight lieutenant and then squadron leader during a distinguished 14-year RAF career as a fast jet pilot. He toured Afghanistan twice, completed three tours of Iraq - receiving a commendation for one - before leaving the RAF in 2019. He latterly worked for BAE Systems, based at RAF Marham in Norfolk, as a lead contractor instructor pilot. The inquest heard he had a history of anxiety and detrimental alcohol use, for which he latterly received professional help. Ministers cosied up to Big Tech the day the government launched a consultation on plans to give AI firms an exemption from copyright law. Technology secretary Peter Kyle met representatives of Meta, owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, to discuss AI opportunities on December 17, according to official records. Later, he spent time with Donald Trumps AI policy advisor Sriram Krishnan, a venture capitalist who has previously held senior positions at Microsoft, Twitter, Yahoo! and Facebook. It was the same day the government started seeking views on its proposal to allow Big Tech to scrape creators content without payment when training their AI models. The following day, Mr Kyle flew to San Francisco, California, to meet bosses from various tech giants including Open AI, Scale AI and World Labs. Meanwhile, AI minister Feryal Clark met the Startup Coalition - a fervent pro-tech advocate - on December 17, despite promising a balanced approach that would protect the interests of our creative industries. Last night, culture committee chairman Caroline Dinenage MP said: The government have massively drunk the Kool Aid on AI and are just doing everything they can to cosy up to big tech. Its only latterly that they've been dragged, kicking and screaming, to meet with our creative industries who are worth 135 billion a year to the British economy. Technology secretary Peter Kyle held meetings with Big Tech on the day the government launched its AI consultation, and jetted to Silicon Valley the following day Mr Kyle also met Sriram Krishnan (pictured), Donald Trump's AI policy advisor who previously held senior positions at Microsoft , Twitter , Yahoo! and Facebook AI minister Feryal Clark met the Startup Coalition - a fervent pro-tech advocate - on the same day Creators are very important to the UK economy and the government ignores them at its peril. I have massive concerns about what's going to come out of the consultation. It has felt like a very one-sided argument so far. If the whispers are to be believed, they're already looking at what they can give away to the US - everything from online safety to digital markets. These all seem to be open season when it comes to trying to swing a better deal with Mr Trump. Baroness Kidron, an advisor to the Institute for Ethics in AI at Oxford University, said the government appears to represent the interests of Silicon Valley rather than the UK. The conflict of interest between government and their advisors is increasingly uncomfortable, she said. In choosing to take advice only from people who represent Big Tech, they are betraying Britains much-loved creative industry that is such a fabulous wealth creator for the UK. The last few months have been something of a learning curve. What I thought was being done out of lack of understanding turns out to be a deliberate strategy of transfer of data and wealth from UK to US. The Mail is campaigning to save Britains creators from the threat of AI. A spokesman for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology said: 'As they have done throughout, both the Technology Secretary and AI Minister continue to meet with a wide range of representatives from both the AI sector and creative industries. This is in addition to meetings held by the Culture Secretary and Minister for Creative Industries. 'Further details on these engagements will be available in due course as part of the departments routine transparency data.' Peter Dutton claims Australia could have secured a tariff deal with the US if Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had 'done the work'. Donald Trump delivered his 'Liberation Day' address announcing new global tariffs with Australia being slapped with 10 per cent on all exports to the US. The Opposition Leader agreed Mr Albanese's five-step plan to rid Australia of the 10 per cent tariff was achievable during an appearance on Sunrise on Friday. But he slammed the PM for failing to take action earlier in the year. 'The engagement needs to be with the US but it should have been taking place really from January,' Mr Dutton told the Channel Seven hosts. 'The problem is that the Prime Minister hasn't been able to get even a phone call, let alone a meeting with the president. 'The ambassador can't get into the West Wing. It shows that had we done the work beforehand, I think there was a deal to be struck.' Mr Dutton said he's confident he could secure Australia an exemption from tariffs if he wins the federal election. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton took a swipe at Anthony Albanese, claiming Australia could have secured a tariff deal with the US if the Prime Minister had 'done the work' 'When we were in government last time, when President Trump was in the Oval Office, we were able to negotiate an exemption for Australia,' he said. 'It was at zero per cent, other countries had the tariff applied, we didn't and that's because we put work into the relationship and we've got connections with those within a position of influence. 'I think there is a deal to be done there... and I do think that the 10 per cent is just leverage. It's a negotiating tactic and I think we can get a good outcome.' But Minister for Education Jason Clare slammed Mr Dutton's claims, saying it was 'ridiculous' the Opposition Leader believed he would have got a different result. He said Mr Dutton would 'take a knee' to the United States. '[Peter Dutton] beats his chest and pretends that he's tough,' Mr Clare said. 'Really, what he's talking about here is trying to, you know, do a deal with the United States. Peter Dutton more likely would write a book called The Art of the Kneel. 'We're not going to bend the knee to the United States. We're going to stand up for Australia every single time.' Australia was slapped with a new 10 per cent tariff on all exports to the US in Trump's 'Liberation Day' address (pictured) Mr Clare said Australia had already offered what Mr Dutton had proposed and the US rejected the deal. He added the outcome would not have been different even if Mr Albanese flew to the US and spoke personally with Trump. 'Japan did that, the UK did that, they can't get a better deal,' Clare said. 'Donald Trump put tariffs on an island where there are no human beings, there are just penguins. So it is just ridiculous for Peter Dutton to be saying this could have happened but that's just typical of Peter Dutton.' It comes after Mr Albanese confirmed Australia would not reciprocate despite slamming Trump's tariff as 'totally unwarranted'. 'For Australia, these tariffs are not unexpected, but let me be clear - they are totally unwarranted,' the PM said on Thursday. 'President Trump referred to reciprocal tariffs. A reciprocal tariff would be zero, not 10 per cent. The administration's tariffs have no basis in logic and they go against the bases of our two nation's partnership. 'This is not the act of a friend.' A Colorado city plans to seize residents' pet cats and dogs in a bid to limit the number of animals allowed in households. On August 1, pet owners in Northglenn - about 40 minutes outside of Denver - will not be allowed to have more than four cats, dogs, or a combination of the two 'totaling no more than four.' The new pet ordinance was recently approved by the city council 'at the request of residents and after extensive research and discussion,' the city said. The restriction was introduced after concerned residents complained of 'excessive noise and waste caused by a high number of pets in some neighborhoods.' Any residents who currently own more pets than allowed can apply for a 'previously owned pet exception' before the ordinance comes into effect. If the application is filled out before that date, Northglenn citizens will be allowed to keep their 'existing pets.' Residents have to specify their pet's name, age, sex, breed and date they were brought into the home in the application. If locals do not disclose this information and have more than the allowed number of pets in their home, the city will take 'enforcement action,' which includes 'a potential court order requiring pet removal.' On August 1, pet owners in Northglenn, Colorado will not be allowed to have more than four cats, dogs, or a combination of the two 'totaling no more than four'. (Pictured: Stock image of a cat and dog) If locals do not disclose this information and have more than the allowed number of pets in their home, the city will take 'enforcement action,' which includes 'a potential court order requiring pet removal.' (Pictured: Northglenn Mayor Meredith Leighty) 'Our goal is to work with residents to ensure compliance through education and outreach before any enforcement action is taken,' the city stated. 'Pets bring joy and companionship to our lives, but they also come with responsibilities. By establishing reasonable pet limits, we aim to ensure that everyone living in Northglenn, both pet owners and non-pet owners, can enjoy their homes and neighborhoods. 'Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we implement this new ordinance.' Although there is not a statewide law limiting the number of pets allowed in a household, multiple cities surrounding Northglenn already have this ban in place. Prior to this announcement, Northglenn was the only city in Adams County that did not have 'long-standing pet regulations' in place, the city said. Residents quickly reacted to the news, which left many furious. 'I guess Northglenn is slowly progressing into becoming Russia since soon we'll only be able to have a certain number of pets,' a user said. 'What's next? Can only have one TV and one car in one household?' Prior to this announcement, Northglenn was the only city in Adam County that did not have 'long-standing pet regulations' in place, the city said. (Pictured: Aerial image of Northglenn) Other cities and towns across the nations have pet ordinances on dogs and cats. (Pictured: File photo of golden retriever puppy) Another person simply wrote: 'No way!!!' Other cities and towns across the nation have pet ordinances in place for dogs and cats. New Jersey does not have a statewide law, but certain towns, including Rahway and Hawthorne, place pet limits on residents. People in those towns are allowed to have no more than three dogs or cats, according to World Population Review. Similarly, North Carolina does not have a state pet ordinance, but in certain areas only one to three dogs or cats are allowed per household, data showed. While many states leave it up to the cities and towns to decide, some, including California do not. In the Golden State, each household is allowed to have four dogs or cats, and they have to be older than four months. In Rhode Island, residents are allowed to own up to three adult dogs, as well as three adult cats per residence, according to the City of Providence. Blake Lively is facing renewed public backlash after a resurfaced clip from 'A Simple Favor' revealed an unscripted scene in which she grabbed co-star Henry Golding's crotch a moment she admitted to initiating herself. The revelation has resurfaced amid her ongoing legal war with 'It Ends With Us' co-star Justin Baldoni. While Lively has accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and spearheading a campaign to destroy her public image, his legal response includes a $400 million defamation lawsuit against her, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and her publicist Leslie Sloane. As part of the fallout, critics are re-examining Lively's past behavior on set. The controversial moment from the 2018 film was highlighted in the Blu-Ray commentary, where Lively admitted to improvising the act. "That's always awkward, when you're like, 'Hey nice to meet you! Can I grab your nuts really hard?' Not because I want to, because I feel like she would," Lively said. Director Paul Feig responded during the commentary, "One of my favourite additions you came up with was you grabbed his nuts, and you really went for it too." The moment was recirculated by lawyer and YouTuber @elsrich, and later by journalist Kjersti Flaa, prompting an outpouring of angry reactions from viewers. One person wrote, "This is absolutely unbelievable! OMG poor Henry looks so uncomfortable. This woman is shameless." Amid the backlash, Lively is not expected to participate in press events for the upcoming sequel 'Another Simple Favor,' and has only appeared once at the SXSW Film Festival. Meanwhile, rumors of tension between Lively and co-star Anna Kendrick persist, though director Paul Feig recently dismissed them. The Lively-Baldoni trial is set to begin on March 9, 2026. All parties deny the allegations made against them. Originally published on Enstarz As the U.S. stock market reels from Donald Trump's tariff announcement, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has slipped down the ranks of Congress's wealthiest members. Pelosi, 85, has consistently ranked as one of the wealthiest lawmakers on Capitol Hill over recent years. Her federally mandated financial disclosures often give insights into her personal holdings, though she claims the trades are handled by her spouse. Over the last decade the California Democrat and her husband Paul Pelosi, an extraordinarily successful venture capitalist, have doubled their net worth, according to estimates from political money tracker Quiver Quantitative. According to data compiled by Quiver's Pelosi tracker, including congressional asset filings, Pelosi's net worth has more than doubled in the past decade from $123 million in 2014 to hitting an estimated $270 million earlier this year. But thanks to Trump's massive new reciprocal tariffs, Pelosi has been hit hard. 'Nancy Pelosis net worth has fallen by approximately $7M since Tuesday, per our estimates,' Quiver co-founder Chris Kardatzke told DailyMail.com. The San Francisco lawmaker is now third on the list of richest lawmakers after losing millions just this week alone. Currently, the richest member of Congress is Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., who has a net worth over half a billion dollars, per Quiver estimates. He started a healthcare company in the 1990's that later grew to become one of the nation's largest healthcare providers. Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has lost an estimated $23 million in the stock market this year President Trump holds up a poster on Wednesday highlighting the reciprocal tariff rates he signed at the White House Your browser does not support iframes. But that's just a fraction of the Pelosi's losses this year. Pelosi's net worth 'has now fallen by approximately $23M since the start of the year,' Kardatzke added. Pelosi notably owns lots of technology stocks, mainly companies from the Bay Area like chip maker Nvidia, iPhone maker Apple, Google, Palo Alto Networks and more. The reason why the Pelosi's portfolio is taking such a hit, Kardatzke reasons, is because of her large tech holdings. 'Per our live portfolio estimates, Apple is currently Pelosis largest stock holding,' he told DailyMail.com. 'Its down 9 percent today, with the new tariffs threatening its supply chains,' the co-founder mentioned. Taking the number two spot from Pelosi on the wealthiest members of Congress list is Florida Republican Rep. Vern Buchanan. Buchanan, 73, first began building his wealth in the 1970s when he began a quick printing business. Later, in the 1990s, he began an automotive group which later expanded. Pelosi has lost $7 million since Tuesday, per Quiver's estimates Paul Pelosi and Nancy Pelosi attend the 47th Kennedy Center Honors in December. Paul Pelosi is a successful investor After Pelosi, who sits on the list as number three, comes Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., and Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif. Warner got his millions after co-founding a company that would later become Nextel, a communications company that would later be acquired by T-Mobile. Issa similarly made his fortune after starting an automotive electronics company in 1982. There have been efforts for years to stop lawmakers from being able to buy and sell stocks while in office, though regulations in place hardly deter potential infractions. The penalty for fudging congressional stock disclosures under the STOCK Act have been reported to cost just a few hundred dollars per infraction. Considering many politicians like Pelosi normally file trades worth tens of thousands of dollars or more, the penalties may as well be pennies. Pelosi shot down the idea of a congressional stock trading ban while she was speaker just years ago. 'We are a free-market economy,' she told reporters in 2021, adding lawmakers 'should be able to participate in that.' Earlier this year a bipartisan bill was proposed to ban lawmakers from trading stocks, though no action has been taken on the measure. He left behind a wife and young son The wife of a truck driver who died in a horror rollover knew something was wrong when her husband failed to send his usual 'good morning' text. Gurvinder Singh, 34, died when his truck crashed into a tree and rolled on Calingiri-Wongan Hills Road near Lake Ninan, 170km north of Perth in Western Australia's Wheatbelt, at 1am on March 30. The father-of-one could not be revived and he was pronounced dead at the scene. A second male driver was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after he crashed his car into Mr Singh's overturned truck. Mr Singh was on his way home after a four-day work trip when he crashed. The truck driver's father-in-law had recently arrived in the country from India and was waiting to welcome him. Ms Kaur said she and her husband talked every morning and that she kept called him repeatedly on the morning of the crash. 'I kept calling him again and again, saying "please pick up the phone",' Ms Kaur told 7News. 'I didn't expect it. He was meant to be home.' Truck driver and father-of-one Gurvinder Singh, 34, died when his truck hit a tree and flipped in WA's Wheatbelt at 1am on March 30 The truck crashed and rolled on Calingiri-Wongan Hills Road near Lake Ninan (pictured) She eventually got a call from police who said they needed to speak to her in person about what had happened. Ms Kaur said couldn't imagine life without her husband of 13 years. 'It's hard in my mind to accept that he isn't coming home,' she said. She said her husband loved driving trucks and had dreams to start his own company. Now Ms Kaur is left to raise their son on her own. Ms Kaur has since launched a GoFundMe to cover Mr Singh's funeral expenses and to provide for their six-year-old son, Williamjeet. She said their son thought of his father as a 'superhero'. Ms Kaur described her husband as 'the most kind, soft-spoken, and respectful soul'. Mr Singh's wife, Maninder Kaur, has since launched a GoFundMe in order to pay for her husband's funeral expenses and to help support their six-year-old son, Williamjeet 'He was not just my husband but my best friend and the most loving father to our 6-year-old son, Williamjeet Singh and he was the only child of his parents,' she wrote. 'Our world has been turned upside down in an instant, and I am struggling to come to terms with this heartbreaking loss. 'As I now face life without him, I humbly ask for your support to help me provide stability for our son. 'Your kindness, prayers, and generosity mean the world to us. No donation is too small, and if youre unable to contribute, please share this fundraiser with others.' WA Police are still investigating the crash and have appealed to anyone with information or footage of the event to come forward. A 19-year-old man has been charged with allegedly stabbing a young couple after breaking into their home late at night. The teenager was arrested on Thursday night over an alleged attack on a couple in western Sydney just after 11.50pm on Saturday, March 29. Emergency services were called to a home on Rooty Hill Road in Plumpton following reports two people had been stabbed. Officers were told a man had allegedly forced his way into the home and stabbed the pair before fleeing the scene. The couple were treated by paramedics at the home before being taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The 19-year-old man at a home on Heffron Road in Lalor Park. The teenager was taken to Blacktown Police Station where he was charged with special aggravated break and enter serious indictable offence wound. He also had an outstanding warrant on an assault law officer (not police officer). The 19-year-old was refused bail to appear at Blacktown Local Court on Friday. Anna Wintour stunned her staff when she became unexpectedly overwhelmed during a meeting on Thursday. Wintour, 75, artistic director at Conde Nast and editor-in-chief of Vogue, was said to be 'tearful' during the gathering which announced the shock departure of Radhika Jones's as Vanity Fair's editor-in-chief. After a seven-year stint at the celebrity-focused monthly magazine, Jones, who took the helm in 2017, told staffers in a 12:30pm all-in meeting at Vanity Fair's New York offices that she will leave the company later this spring. In a memo, Wintour applauded the highly-regarded editor-in-chief's 'deep pride' for her craft, calling her impending departure her 'deepest regret.' 'Earlier this week, Radhika was describing to me her deep pride at her commission of Amy Sherald's painting of Breonna Taylor for the September 2020 cover of Vanity Fair, and what a defining cultural moment that had been. And that is exactly what I believe a great editor does she defines the times,' an emotional Wintour wrote. Jones wrote in a company-wide memo, obtained by the Hollywood Reporter, she felt it was the right time to move on. 'Those of you who know me well know that I can be a little restless, once a mission is accomplished. And I have always had a horror of staying too long at the party,' 'So I've made the decision to leave Vanity Fair this spring. It was a difficult decision, because it was a tremendous privilege to lead this team.' A source close to the situation told the New York Post that Jones has been thinking about leaving Conde Nast, home to Vogue, The New Yorker and Wired, for a while. Anna Wintour (pictured) stunned her Vogue and Vanity Fair staff when she unexpectedly showed emotion during a meeting about Radhika Jones's departure as Vanity Fair's editor-in-chief Radhika Jones, 52,who took the helm in 2017, told staffers in a 12:30 pm meeting at Vanity Fair's offices at One World Trade Center in New York that she will depart later this spring. Pictured: Anna Wintour (left) with Radhika Jones (right) at the CARE Impact Awards in New York City on November 8, 2023 Jones' shocking exit from the company comes at a particularly difficult time for magazines, which have been squeezed by declines in advertising and readership. She commended the staff over its accomplishments and reminisced over her time as editor. 'At the end of every year, I look over the memo I wrote back in 2017 when I was interviewing to be the editor of Vanity Fair, as a way to remember the goals I had and check my progress. Last year, somewhat to my surprise, I realized that - with your help - I had accomplished virtually all of those goals,' Jones said. A new editor-in-chief has yet to be determined, however, Wintour said that Jones will 'be helping with the transition.' 'Radhika has shown herself to be as much at home on the red carpet as sitting front row, and has graciously hosted the most legendary party in Hollywood. She has done it all with poise and wit and wisdom,' Wintour said. 'In the coming weeks, Radhika will be helping us with the transition as we start the search for a new editor,' she continued. 'We look forward to Vanity Fair's exciting next chapter. Radhika, we are so grateful for your high standards of journalism, your fearlessness and your empathetic leadership. You will be much missed.' Jones' departure from the company comes at a particularly difficult time for magazines, which have been squeezed by declines in advertising and readership. Pictured: Radhika Jones attends The Gothams 34th Annual Film Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on December 02, 2024 in New York City A new editor-in-chief has yet to be determined, however, Wintour said that Jones will 'be helping with the transition.' Pictured: Anna Wintour and Radhika Jones attend the Ellie Awards 2018 on March 13, 2018 in New York City Prior to joining Vanity Fair, Jones served as the editor of the New York Times books section. Pictured: Vanity Fair issues on display Prior to joining Vanity Fair, Jones served as the editor of the New York Times books section. She also worked at the Paris Review and Time, where she oversaw the Person of the Year franchise as well as the Time 100. She has also worked at Artforum, Bookforum and Grand Street, a literary and arts quarterly. Jones' appointment seven years ago succeeded former EIC Graydon Carter, who stepped down after 25 years at the famed celebrity publication. Jones was the first female editor of Vanity Fair since Tina Brown served as the magazines editor from 1984 until 1992. Millions of Australians will receive an extra hour of sleep on Sunday, with clocks set to move back one hour in line with daylight saving. Here, Daily Mail Australia has provided your ultimate guide to the changes. What time will it happen? The time change will happen at 3am Australian eastern daylight saving time (AEDT), which will see clocks reset back to 2am. Which means those living in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and the ACT another hour of sleep. If you live in Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory, nothing will change, as they do not observe daylight saving. Why do we have Daylight Saving? Daylight saving was first introduced in Australia during the First World War in 1916, and again during the Second World War as a means to conserve energy usage. It was first adopted permanently by Tasmania in 1967, with NSW, Victoria, SA and the ACT following suit in 1971. The extra hour of sunlight allows people to enjoy longer days and take fuller advantage of the sunshine during the warmer months. Millions of Australians will receive an extra hour of sleep on Sunday, with clocks set to move back one hour in line with daylight saving (swimmers at Bondi Beach are pictured) Daylight saving to end for NSW, Vic, SA, Tas and the ACT on Sunday night (Bondi Beach) Why don't QLD, NT, and WA observe Daylight Saving? Queensland and WA have both held referendums to decide whether or not to adopt Daylight Saving. In 1992 Queenslanders voted against making daylight saving permanent, after a three year trial. The debate is unlikely to resurface in the Sunshine State, as Premier David Crisafulli previously ruled out daylight saving changes while Opposition Leader. David Crisafulli rejected calls from Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, who called for a new daylight saving trial to be adopted in 2022. WA residents have voted against introducing daylight saving on four occasions, most recently in 2009. The Northern Territory meanwhile has never held a vote on the issue. Does Daylight Saving impact sleep? The Sleep Health Foundation says adjusting by moving the clock back one hour in April is easier for our bodies than moving it forward in October. They note that while it takes about a week to adjust in October, the April shift typically takes just one evening. Experts say the extra hour of light in the morning makes it easier to exercise (Bondi Beach) The extra hour has less impact on our circadian rhythm, which operates on a cycle slightly longer than 24 hours. This shift may improve sleep, with earlier darkness prompting an earlier bedtime, while the morning light makes it easier to wake up for exercise. When does Daylight Saving return? Daylight Saving Time in Australia will start again on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 2am Australian Eastern standard time (AEST). Clocks will move forward one hour to 3am Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT). Tourists in Cancun were left terrified as police clashed with alleged drug dealers in broad daylight at a resort, leaving one person dead. Guests in the pool area and at the nearby beach reportedly ran for cover as the gunfight broke out when armed cops swooped in at the Riu Palace Costa Mujeres, about 25 miles north of the Cancun airport, at around 3pm on Thursday. The Quintana Roo Attorney General explained that the cops had been undercover at the resort in an effort to catch gang members who were allegedly using the hotel as a base to sell drugs, KARE reports. Guests and staff members were allegedly threatened by the group and ordered to provide services as the criminals attempted to distribute drugs in the resort. One mother accompanying a group of Minnesota students on a senior spring break even claimed that one of the drug dealers aggressively approached her son and many of the other high schoolers on the trip - trying to sell them cocaine and get them to share their social media information. Police on the scene then found two of the alleged gang members armed with weapons in the bathroom near the pool, prompting the criminals to open fire, according to Riviera Maya News. The officers promptly returned fire, and one of the suspects was shot dead. Resort guests in Cancun were subjected to terrifying scenes as police clashed with a violent 'criminal group' One of the criminals was reportedly shot dead. Pictures show others being taken into custody, as horrified guests watched on The incident reportedly took place around the hotel pool Undercover officers were set upon with a hail of bullets One local report stated: 'Weapons were seized, one of which was exclusively for military use. An operation is underway to capture more involved parties' Pictures posted online showed other alleged gang members being taken into custody, as horrified guests watched on. Mexican Navy troops also arrived on the scene, as tourists were taken to safety, according to Proceso. Meanwhile, officers reportedly seized weapons, including a firearm that is said to be used exclusively by the military. They are now trying to go after the other alleged gang members, local reports suggest. Police have made a major breakthrough in the search for a missing Queensland mum after they found her ute more than two months after she vanished. Investigators searching for Tayla Spies discovered the 29-year-old's 2017 Toyota Hilux near Noorindoo, a town 460km west of Brisbane, about 3pm on April 3. The mother-of-three was seen driving on the Carnarvon Highway after she had earlier been captured on CCTV at a service station in the small town of Surat on February 2. She was in her white Hilux at the Western Downs town, which is 80km south of her home in Roma. Police have since discovered the Hilux at a Yuleba-Surat Road property about five minutes drive from where the young mum was last seen. The location of the vehicle is a backroad deviation from the more direct route to Ms Spies' hometown of Roma on the Carnarvon Hwy. Detectives confirmed the ute was Ms Spies' after investigators found contents in the vehicle which belonged to the missing mum. Police and other emergency services continue to search for her. Queensland mum Tayla Spies (pictured) has been missing since February 2 Ms Spies was captured on CCTV at a service station in Surat on February 2 Tayla Spies left Dalby and headed towards her hometown of Roma Ms Spies' family has previously hit out at 'untrue and hurtful rumours' that have been circulating about her. Her sister, Rebecca Spies, has addressed rumours going around western Queensland communities about her beloved sister. 'She hasn't been found. There hasn't been a body found. Her car hasn't been found,' Rebecca said last month. 'I am getting a lot of condolence messages and 'so sorry to hear' messages. 'Tayla is still missing. I am not sure where the rumour that a body has been found has started from. I have a fair idea, but she's still missing.' The Queensland Police said they were aware of untrue rumours that are circulating and denied they have searched a river. 'No searches of the Ward River in Charleville have been conducted as part of ongoing investigations,' a spokesperson said. Rebecca posted on Facebook: 'I can assure everybody that Tayla has not been found, she is still missing and so is her car. Police discovered Ms Spies' white Hilux (pictured) at a Yuleba-Surat Road property on April 3 'If everybody that has heard otherwise could please shut down this rumour we would really appreciate it. 'We need everyone searching for her, sharing and keeping her name and story out there.' She added that any updates will be posted to her Facebook page and that 'until you see a post from myself stating that she has been found, she is still actively missing and we need your help.' Tayla Spies - pronounced 'Speez' - had spent the night before she went missing at the Windsor Hotel in Dalby and stopped at a service station in Condamine on the day she was last seen. The police have been searching a 9,000 square kilometre area of remote bushland around the towns of Surat, Yuleba, Meandarra and Glenmorgan. They have also accessed Ms Spies social media accounts and are monitoring her bank accounts. A friend of the Spies family has offered a $5,000 reward for information that could lead to her discovery. Speaking on a video released by the Queensland Police last month, Rebecca Spies said the family has no knowledge of anybody having seen or spoken to Tayla since she went missing. A friend of the Spies family has offered a $5,000 reward for information that could lead to her discovery 'We have no knowledge if she is OK. The pain and enormity of her absence increases with each each day that passes. And the worry is consuming us all,' she said. Rebecca said her sister 'has blue eyes, a slim build, with brown hair that fades to dark blonde from the mid lengths of her hair to the ends. 'She has the word karma tattooed across her chest, the words you keep me wild on the lower left arm and a tattoo on an upper letter thigh. 'My sister Tayla is funny, brave, thoughtful and is always there for people when they need her. She loves her family wholeheartedly and never lets us forget it.' Rebecca also thanked everyone who had helped in the search for her sister by sharing social media posts, putting out posters and searching on the ground. 'The amount of support we have received so far has been overwhelming, and we cannot begin to thank you all enough,' she said. She then offered a personal message directly to Tayla. 'Sissy, if you're watching this, I want you to know that you are so loved and cherished by so many people. 'I want you to know that I miss my big sister, and I love you, you're my protector and the one that keeps me young at heart. Police are still searching for Ms Spies 'Mum wants you to know that if you need a break and you're not ready to come home yet, that's OK, but please just let her know that you are OK. 'Nana wants you to know that she loves you and your babies love you. And if you need a break, that's OK.' Investigators appealed for anyone travelling between Dalby, Surat and surrounding areas between the hours of 10.30am and 12.30pm on February 2, to check dashcam footage or for anyone with any information to immediately contact police. Floodwaters ravaging thousands of kilometres of outback Queensland have now spilled over into a second state as a new satellite image captures the extraordinary extent of the damage. Heavy rain battered western and inland areas of the state over the last fortnight, causing three rural communities to evacuate their homes, with some isolated areas drenched with almost a year's worth of rain. NASA's Earth Observatory was able to picture the sheer size of the flood when skies cleared on Thursday. The satellite uses false colours to enhance floodwaters by making water on the ground appear blue and sediment-heavy water darker blue. The Bureau of Meteorology said the widespread flooding will linger for several weeks in some areas due to saturated ground. 'If the water was just going to go away, where would it go to?' the Bureau's Miriam Bradbury said. 'A portion soaks into the ground and a portion moves into our river systems.' But Ms Bradbury told Daily Mail Australia on Friday the ground in flooded areas of southwest Queensland has become 'so saturated, it cannot absorb anymore'. NASA's Earth Observatory captured images of flooding across thousands of kilometres of Channel Country within Queensland (pictured) Flooded homes are seen in Thargomindah in Queensland's southwest on Thursday Heavy rain battered western and inland Queensland in the last fortnight causing some communities to evacuate (SES crews are seen on floodwaters) A side effect of the saturation is that floodwaters have started flowing down the river systems into northern New South Wales, causing new flood warnings. The state is 'getting it from all angles', Ms Bradbury said. 'Some of the flooding is driven by rain in some of those areas, but some at Warrego River has flowed down from Queensland areas,' she said. She said the extent of the flooding 'remains to be seen' over the next few weeks. The Bureau said heavy rainfall has eased across southern Queensland with a weak trough to linger in central and northern areas on Friday before moving north. But with flooding set to last for weeks and rivers expected to remain high, locals are desperate for no more rain. A man and his horse were rescued by police and emergency services from floodwaters at the rural town of Tambo on Wednesday. Flooded roads and homes are seen in Thargomindah in Queensland's southwest Heavy rainfall has eased across southern Queensland but flooding is expected to linger for weeks, according to the Bureau of Meteorology Shortly before 5.30am, the 31-year-old was travelling from his home in Blackall to Toowoomba to get surgery for his wounded horse. Queensland Police said the man was unable to see the floodwater in the pre-dawn darkness and was immediately swept off the roadway along with his horse. The driver climbed on top of the roof of his 4WD until emergency services arrived a short time later. Longreach Disaster Coordinator Inspector Chris Smith said the incident is another reminder to be vigilant during severe weather. 'When it is dark, it is often difficult to see that a road could potentially be hazardous. No matter how shallow it may look, it's not worth risking your life or the lives of emergency services who rescue you,' he said. 'It may seem like an inconvenience, but by taking the time you need to seek alternate routes, it may just save your life.' Police said 27 residents were evacuated from Adavale and a number of people were relocated from Jundah and Thargomindah. A home is surrounded by floodwaters near the town of Jundah in Queensland's southwest Sydney Friday. Max 26. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of an afternoon shower, most likely near the coast. Light winds. Saturday. Min 16 Max 25. The chance of fog in the early morning. Sunny day. Winds west to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h turning south to southeasterly in the late morning then becoming light in the evening. Sunday. Min 15 Max 27. Sunny. The chance of morning fog in the west. Light winds. Melbourne: Friday. Max 19. Partly cloudy. Light winds becoming southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h in the morning then tending westerly in the late evening. Saturday. Min 12 Max 18. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers about the Dandenongs, medium chance elsewhere. Winds westerly 15 to 25 km/h tending southwesterly early in the morning then becoming light in the evening. Sunday. Min 9 Max 21. Becoming cloudy. High chance of showers in the southeast suburbs, medium chance elsewhere. Winds north to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h turning westerly 25 to 40 km/h during the morning then decreasing to 20 to 30 km/h during the evening. Brisbane Friday. Max 28. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Light winds becoming east to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h in the early afternoon then becoming light in the evening. Saturday. Min 19 Max 29. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers. Light winds. Sunday. Min 19 Max 28. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Light winds. An SES worker is seen cradling a dog in a flooded street in southwest Queensland Canberra Friday. Max 23. Partly cloudy. Light winds becoming northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h in the late afternoon then becoming light in the evening. Saturday. Min 6 Max 23. Sunny. Light winds becoming northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h in the early afternoon then becoming light in the evening. Sunday. Min 3 Max 21. Sunny. Light winds becoming west to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening. Adelaide Friday. Max 21. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower about the southern suburbs in the afternoon, near zero chance elsewhere. Light winds becoming southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h in the middle of the day then tending southerly 15 to 20 km/h in the evening. Saturday. Min 12 Max 22. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower about the southern suburbs, near zero chance elsewhere. Light winds becoming southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h in the early afternoon then becoming light in the evening. Sunday. Min 10 Max 23. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming westerly 20 to 30 km/h during the morning then tending southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the afternoon. Queensland Police said about 27 people were evacuated from Adavale, and a number of people were relocated from Jundah and Thargomindah Perth Friday. Max 25. Partly cloudy. Very high chance of showers. The chance of a thunderstorm. Winds easterly 30 to 50 km/h. Gusts to 85 km/h are possible about the hills and foothills, with damaging winds possible in the evening. Saturday. Min 15 Max 27. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning. The chance of a thunderstorm about the northern suburbs. Damaging winds possible in the east in the morning. Winds easterly 35 to 50 km/h decreasing to 15 to 20 km/h in the evening. Gusts to 85 km/h are possible about the hills and foothills in the morning. Sunday. Min 17 Max 30. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers. The chance of a thunderstorm. Winds easterly 15 to 25 km/h tending northwest to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening. The extent of the flooding 'remains to be seen' over the next few weeks Darwin Friday. Max 33. Mostly sunny. Slight chance of a shower. Light winds. Saturday. Min 24 Max 32. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a thunderstorm. Light winds. Sunday. Min 24 Max 32. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a thunderstorm. Light winds. Hobart Friday. Max 19. Cloudy. Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the evening. Winds northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h turning westerly 20 to 30 km/h in the late evening. Saturday. Min 8 Max 16. Cloudy. Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the early morning. Winds westerly 20 to 30 km/h decreasing to 15 to 25 km/h in the morning then increasing to 35 km/h before turning northwesterly 20 to 25 km/h during the afternoon and evening. Sunday. Min 13 Max 17. Cloudy. Very high chance of showers, becoming less likely in the late evening. Winds northwesterly 20 to 30 km/h tending westerly during the day. I have seen Armageddon and it is real with walls of fire, US bases in flames and Middle Eastern cities in ruins. Even the sea boils. This is not mere imagination. I have had premonitions all my life. I see things before they happen. But the vision that has been haunting me for the past few days is the most terrifying yet. I see Doomsday in the minutes after Iran unleashes a nuclear bomb. I know it is Iran because I can see their military personnel turning keys. I hear the Farsi language being spoken. There is only one nation on Earth that has the firepower to prevent this nightmare from becoming reality: the United States of America. The US must not sign any deal with Iran that gives it time to keep developing its nuclear weapons. The only safe course of action is to halt Tehran's bomb-making right now. I am pleading with President Trump to listen if not to me, then to his head of US Strategic Command, General Anthony Cotton, who estimates Iran could amass enough fissile material for a nuclear bomb in under a week if it wanted to. Gen. Cotton last month told the US Senate that Iran's 'breakout time' the period needed to enrich enough uranium for one bomb is now a matter of days. I fear that the regime in Tehran, under the leadership of hateful fanatics, wants nothing more than to explode a bomb in the heart of Western civilization. Uri Geller has had premonitions all his life and his latest is of walls of fire, US bases in flames and even the sea boiling As they can't yet mount it on a missile, my great fear is that Iran will smuggle a bomb across the border into Israel and detonate it in the middle of a city. They could equally choose to transport their nuke to Europe, or even the States setting off the bomb in the port of Philadelphia, New York or Miami. And it would not require any sophisticated type of delivery system, just an overwhelming hatred of the West and everything we stand for. Every year, 11 million containers arrive at US ports all it takes is for a dirty bomb to be hidden in one. Iran's Quds Force, which operates overseas, could be ordered to make this happen. Iran's leaders, who speak of the US as 'the Great Satan', might see the obliteration of an American city as God's will even though it could lead to a worldwide nuclear holocaust and the end of human civilization. It is this appalling vision that I have seen vividly in my mind's eye over the past few days. I have to sound the alarm, because my premonitions have come true countless times. Sometimes it can feel like being hit by lightning. When I was 24, at the beginning of my career as a paranormalist in 1970, I was giving a demonstration of metal-bending and mindpower in a Tel Aviv theatre. In a split second, as though my brain was a radio receiver, I knew Egypt's President Nasser was dead the victim of a fatal heart attack. Without stopping to think, I blurted out the news to a packed auditorium. This was decades before the internet, when reports could take days to filter through. Later, I discovered that my premonition came within a few minutes of Nasser's death, perhaps even at the moment he died. Remember that Israel had been at war with Egypt just three years earlier and Nasser was still considered Israel's greatest threat. My announcement caused a sensation, so much so that some people believed I must have been involved with a secret assassination plot. Of course I was not, and Nasser died from natural causes. The paranormalist has been aware of his powers since 1970 when he had a vision that Egypt's President Nasser had died Now he is pleading with President Donald Trump not to sign any nuclear deals with Iran and stop his vision After that, both the Israeli military and the CIA started taking my powers seriously. I was part of the original US Stargate project, a Cold War spy program that used 'remote viewing' to map enemy plans and positions. In a different guise, Stargate continues to this day. I can only guess that right now, there are psychics sitting in darkened rooms all over America because it's a cheap way to spy. These people can send their minds through space and time, to bring back information whether it's movements of Russian nuclear submarines or trains transporting nuclear weapons across China. Not all my espionage work was done remotely. On occasions, I have traveled in jets that fly close to the speed of sound over suspected nuclear facilities I won't say where and, to this day, I am not at liberty to speak about it. My role was to absorb whatever I felt as we flashed overhead in that split second. It's almost like a fast dream, lodged and etched on to my brain. I have also done this by helicopter in South Korea, mapping the tunnels extending under the border from North Korea which were then destroyed by Seoul's forces. This experience makes me certain that Iran's nuclear program, based deep underground, has military purposes. I can even feel the existence of the tunnels, spiraling out like a subterranean spider's web. These could be a mile or even more underground. But there are ways of reaching even the deepest tunnels, and they do not have to involve bunker-busting bombs. Mr President, if you are reading this, your generals know what I am talking about. The future is not yet written. My premonitions are strong. Iran is racing to get the bomb, of that there is no doubt, and it will do anything to make this happen. The regime knows it can not survive without the ultimate deterrent. But it is not there yet. President Trump must prevent this and do so now. A new nuclear deal will be the end of the world. He must not sign anything with Iran. The ayatollahs will lie their way to a bomb and use a deal with the US as the perfect cover. President Trump can go down in history as the savior of the world... or as the leader who let Iran destroy it. Dear Mr President, do not let my warning go unheeded. Don't miss Uri's new Tarot pack: 'The Extraterrestrial Oracle: 52 Divination Cards to Channel the Wisdom of the Aliens.' A senior member of Donald Trump's cabinet has blasted Australia's biosecurity rules citing them as a major factor for the 10 per cent tariffs. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Australia's quarantining system was effectively a barrier to American beef exporters. 'Our farmers are blocked from selling almost anywhere - 1.4billion people in India and we can't sell them corn; Europe won't let us sell beef; Australia won't let us sell beef,' he told CNN. Australia, like the US, has biosecurity rules to keep out disease. But Mr Lutnick, a banking billionaire who advises Trump on trade policy, argued these rules amounted to protectionism, and now the US is responding in kind. 'They want to just protect, they want to say, "Oh, what, the seeds are different",' he said. 'C'mon, this is nonsense; this is all nonsense. What happens is they block our markets - when we opened those markets, our volumes grow, our farmers will thrive and the price of groceries will come down.' Beef, Australia's biggest export to the United States in 2024, will now incur a 10 per cent tariff despite a reliance by many American food companies on the product to complement its own meat which is short supply. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Australia's quarantining system amounted to a barrier to American beef exporters The US is battling a drought, which has diminished cattle herds and restricted beef production to the fattier, grain-fed variety. Australia's leaner, grass-fed beef is needed to make hamburger mince; a staple of the American diet, and made up 96 per cent of Australia's exports to the US last year. Imposing a tariff on Australian beef exports would be more likely to push up food prices in the US rather than bolster local production if conditions do not allow it. South American beef producing nations Argentina, Brazil and Chile, who are also battling a drought, have been hit with a 10 per cent tariff, like Australia. Australia has had a free-trade deal with the US since 2005 but the Trump Administration argued measures like biosecurity, a Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and even the Goods and Services Tax are the equivalent of 'tariffs charged to the US'. The 10 per cent 'reciprocal tariffs' on Australia was based on addressing a perceived trade imbalance, despite the US having annual trade surpluses with Australia stretching back to 1952. Australian exports to the US, like beef and gold, had spiked in early 2025, as American importers rushed to get in ahead of the Trump tariffs. Beef, Australia's biggest export to the United States in 2024, now incurs a 10 per cent tariff, even though the Americans had been importing a product they had struggled to produce themselves (pictured is a herd in south-west Victoria) President Trump cited the US buying $US3billion worth of Australian beef in year as Australian quarantining rules made it hard for American exporters Meat was Australia's biggest export to the US last year, with beef making up almost $5billion of the $6billion in protein sent there, along with lamb and goat. President Trump cited the US buying $US3billion worth of Australian beef in year as Australian quarantining rules made it hard for American exporters. 'Australia bans - and they're wonderful people, and wonderful everything - but they ban American beef,' he said, announcing 'Liberation Day' tariffs at the White House. 'Yet we imported 3billion dollars of Australian beef from them just last year alone. 'They won't take any of our beef. 'They don't want it because they don't want it to affect their farmers - and I don't blame them - but we're doing the same thing right now.' Australia had an overall trade surplus of $2.968billion in February, which was the weakest since the pandemic in 2020 based on the difference between the value of exports and imports. Australian exports to the US had briefly overtaken those sent to China in early 2025, ahead of the US tariffs, but exports to both trading partners have now fallen sharply since January. Westpac senior economist Mantas Vanagas said Australian export trade was likely to slow in 2025, as a result of the American tariffs. 'Against the backdrop of very significant shifts in global trade policy, risks to the trade balance are skewed towards a further deterioration,' he said. The latest 10 per cent tariffs on Australian exports to the US follow 25 per cent tariffs on Australian steel and aluminium that came into effect on March 12. American research firm Evercore estimates average US tariffs are now at 29 per cent, which is higher than the 20 per cent level of 1930, following the passage of the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act during the Great Depression. Amazon has made an unexpected bid to acquire TikTok, just days before the US government's April 5 deadline for the platform to sever ties with its Chinese owner, ByteDance, or face a ban. The offer was revealed through a letter addressed to Vice President JD Vance and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, according to sources familiar with the matter, ABC Net said. Despite Amazon's late entry into the bidding war, many involved in the discussions are reportedly not taking the company's offer seriously. With national security concerns fueling the push for TikTok's sale, the sudden move by Amazon has added further intrigue to an already contentious situation. Amazon's connection to TikTok runs deeper than it may seem. The app, which boasts 170 million US users, has become a major e-commerce hub, with influencers driving sales through TikTok Shop and affiliate links to Amazon's marketplace. While Amazon previously attempted to create a TikTok-style shopping experience with its now-defunct "Inspire" feature, it failed to gain traction. The retail giant has remained silent on the bid, declining to comment on its intentions. TikTok also has yet to respond to inquiries about the offer. Amazon has submitted a bid to buy TikTok ahead of the U.S. ownership-ban deadline this Saturday. pic.twitter.com/uNDEXfag5F Pop Base (@PopBase) April 2, 2025 Oracle, Blackstone, and Amazon Eye TikTok Takeover Amazon is not the only company eyeing TikTok. Several high-profile bidders have expressed interest, including a consortium led by billionaire Frank McCourt and another spearheaded by Jesse Tinsley, founder of Employer.com. Additionally, Wyoming entrepreneur Reid Rasner has made an offer estimated at $47.5 billion. According to NY Times, Oracle and Blackstone have also been in discussions as potential investors. Oracle, in particular, has a history with TikTok, having previously secured a 12.5% stake in TikTok Global in 2020 when the app faced similar US regulatory pressure. The sale of TikTok remains uncertain, as ByteDance has maintained that it is not for sale. Complicating matters, the Chinese government has signaled opposition to a forced divestment, potentially blocking any deal. President Donald Trump, who has publicly voiced support for TikTok despite security concerns, has the power to delay enforcement of the ban. While he previously extended the deadline, it is unclear if he will do so again. A key hearing on TikTok's fate is scheduled for June 30, where both sides will present their cases. If no sale is finalized, the app could face removal from US app stores, marking a major shift in the digital landscape. Originally published on vcpost.com A second person has been charged in connection with the alleged murder of a man whose body was found wrapped in a tarpaulin in a suburban backyard last month. Police began inquiries into the death of Johnny Birch, 39, after his half-buried body was discovered on a property in Glenorie, in Sydney's north-west, on March 14. A 35-year-old woman was arrested at the property on Thursday and taken to Castle Hill Police Station where she was charged with accessory after the fact to murder and larceny accessory before the fact. She was refused bail and will appear in Parramatta Local Court on May 29. The woman is the second person to be charged in connection with Birch's death. The update comes after a 24-year-old man was arrested at a property in Glenorie on March 23, nine days after Birch's body was discovered. The man was charged with murder and remains before the courts. Birch's family reported him missing on March 13, two days before a cousin found his body in a paddock wrapped in a tarp. Johnny Birch (pictured) was discovered at a property in Glenorie in Sydney's north-west Two people have been charged in connection with the alleged murder (one arrest is pictured) Police found Birch's body wrapped in a tarp in a suburban backyard (pictured) An unidentified relative said a cousin of Birch had found his body after becoming worried about him. 'He'd been missing for a short time and they went looking for him,' the relative said. 'They obviously knew something about where he was going.' The family said Birch had a criminal past and had been to prison a few times. 'He had a few issues,' a relative said. 'He was a good family man but what he did [outside] of family was a bit shaky.' Before the most recent arrests, two men aged 24 and 34, and a 35-year-old woman were arrested at the scene. They were taken to Castle Hill Police Station and released pending further investigation. A religious Sydney school was evacuated on Friday morning after an anonymous bomb threat. The threat came about 8.20am while kids were arriving at the Lebanese Maronite Catholic school, St Charbel's College, at Punchbowl in Sydney's west. Police attended and students were evacuated to a nearby park, but they have since returned to class. 'A police operation has concluded at a school on Highclere Avenue, Punchbowl,' a NSW Police spokesperson said. 'A building was evacuated as a precaution, however, all people have now returned. 'There is no threat to the community.' Israel has accused Mayor of London Sadiq Khan of spouting 'Hamas propaganda' during his video message celebrating Eid. He said in a video posted on March 30 to mark the Islamic celebration of Eid al-Fitr and the end of the holy month of Ramadan: 'More than 50,000 Palestinians have been killed as a result of Israel's ongoing military campaign, including more than 15,000 children.' The London Mayor added: 'These betrayals of humanity should weigh heavily on our collective conscience. 'But I'm proud that, while the international community has chosen to avert its gaze, Londoners have not.' But the Israeli embassy in London criticised Khan for not condemning Hamas and failing to mention the hostages still held by the terror group. In a statement to The Telegraph, a spokesperson for the embassy said: 'Firstly, we would like to emphasise to Mr Khan that the war is a result of the brutal and horrific attack by Hamas, a proscribed terror organisation in the UK, which was imposed on Israel on Oct 7. 'It is alarming that, throughout the message, there is no mention of Hamas or any condemnation of terrorism and a call for the release of 59 hostages that are being held in horrific and inhumane conditions', they added. The Mayor's office told the newspaper in response: 'The Mayor has repeatedly conveyed his outrage at attacks by Hamas on Israel and has strongly condemned these acts of terrorism. Israel has accused Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (pictured) of spouting 'Hamas propaganda' (pictured last month) Palestinians, including women and children, scramble to collect food during a distribution by the charity organization in the Jabalia Refugee Camp in northern Gaza City, Gaza on April 3, 2025 'He is deeply saddened by the loss of all lives, and continues to support calls for a permanent ceasefire.' MailOnline has contacted the Mayor of London's office for comment. The embassy's scolding comes after Israeli airstrikes killed at least 100 Palestinians across the Gaza Strip on Thursday, including 27 or more sheltering at a school in the north, according to Palestinian medical authorities, in a stepped-up offensive that Israel's military said is intended to put new pressure on Hamas and eventually expel the militant group. The bodies of 14 children and five women were recovered from the school in the Tuffah neighborhood of Gaza City and the death toll could rise because some of the 70 wounded sustained critical injuries, said Health Ministry spokesman Zaher al-Wahidi. More than 30 other Gaza residents were killed in strikes on homes in the nearby neighborhood of Shijaiyah, he said, citing records at Ahli Hospital. The Israeli military said it struck a 'Hamas command and control center' in the Gaza City area, and said it took steps to lessen harm to civilians. Israel gave the same reason - striking Hamas militants in a 'command and control center' - for attacking a United Nations building used as a shelter a day earlier, killing at least 17 people. Hamas condemned the strike on the school, calling it a ' heinous massacre' of innocent civilians. The strikes came as Israel's military ordered more residents in parts of northern Gaza to move west and south to shelters, warning that it planned to 'work with extreme force in your area.' Internally displaced Palestinians walk along a street near the rubble of destroyed buidlings after fleeing northern Gaza following an Israeli army evacuation order Behind a tent camp for displaced Palestinians, smoke rises from a building after it was targeted by an Israeli army strike in Gaza City Journalist Mohammed Saleh al-Bardawil, his wife and children were killed in an attack on a residential area on April 1 A number of the Palestinians leaving the targeted areas did so on foot, with some carrying their belongings on their backs and others using donkey carts. 'My wife and I have been walking for three hours covering only one kilometer,' said Mohammad Ermana, 72. The couple, clasping hands, each walked with a cane. 'I'm searching for shelters every hour now, not every day,' he said. Israel has issued sweeping evacuation orders for parts of northern Gaza ahead of expected ground operations. The United Nations humanitarian office said around 280,000 Palestinians have been displaced since Israel ended the ceasefire with Hamas last month. Aussies are divided over how a once common term of endearment is now considered an insult by many under the age of 30. Members of the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles reacted with disgust when a staff member called them 'champ' in a clip uploaded to TikTok. It sparked debate as to whether it is an insult or not, with some confused and surprised to learn that 'champ' had fallen out of favour. Others agreed that it should no longer be used, regardless of how it was meant. One man offered a more nuanced compromise, suggesting the word could be used around older generations but not with people under the age of 30. The word champ, or champion, was used in much the same way as 'mate' - a handy go-to when you did not know or could not remember someone's name. In the Sea Eagle's video a staffer conducted a series of interviews with players where he called them 'champ' at the end and recorded their reaction. 'What do you mean "champ"?' Forward Jazz Tevaga demanded. Manly Warringah Sea Eagles' player Tommy Talau was shocked and upset when another team member called him 'champ' in a recent TikTok video 'Why are you calling me "champ" for?' Others including Ben Trbojevic, Tommy Talau and Lachlan Croker also got their backs up after hearing the word. But Aussies were divided over their reactions. 'Why are they so freaked out by champ,' one woman wrote. 'Crazy that calling someone a c**t is better than calling them champ,' a second said. 'From Sydney and have never known it to be an insult. So confused,' a third agreed. More than 200 passengers were left stranded and calling for help in a remote Turkish airport yesterday after a jet made an emergency landing due to a panicked passenger. The flight had left Heathrow for Mumbai at 11.40am but never arrived as a woman started 'shouting and screaming at 30,000ft'. A source said: 'The situation had become so scary that the decision was taken to land so she could receive medical help.' The Airbus A350 therefore diverted to Turkey and landed in Diyarbakir at about 4pm - primarily a military hub but the site of some civilian flights. Passengers sent out calls for help as they reported being given only rice and feeling abandoned for 16 hours. Among the trapped were babies, diabetic patients and pensioners, with a video showing a four-months pregnant woman saying: 'Everyone is suffering. Please help.' Other frustrated mothers said everyone was ordered to leave their carry-on bags on the plane. An elderly man said: 'We're so tired. Can anyone do something?' Pictured: Virgin Atlantic flight VIR-358, from London, UK to India, makes an emergency landing at Diyarbakir Airport after a passenger fell ill The Airbus A350 diverted to Turkey and landed in Diyarbakir (pictured) at about 4pm - primarily a military hub but the site of some civilian flights @VirginAtlantic What is happening to flight VS358 from Heathrow to Mumbai? Emergency landed in Diyarbakir OVER 12 HOURS ago due to a medical emergency. Passengers including pregnant women & diabetics like my grandad have had NO proper food or accommodation. This is unacceptable! pic.twitter.com/e31zyPaQRn Jenri Ball (@JenriBall) April 3, 2025 The Diyarbakir hub is not built for wide-bodied passenger planes and the jet had a technical problem on site meaning it was unable to leave for India. Diplomats are understood to have arranged for 24-hour visas so passengers would be able to stay in hotels nearby. They may be put on a flight today to Saudi Arabia for a connecting trip. Passengers reported having received minimal updates from Virgin Atlantic (VS) regarding alternative travel arrangements. Under international aviation regulations, airlines must provide food, refreshments, and accommodation when flights are significantly delayed. A similar event on December 1 last year saw a Gulf Air flight from Mumbai to Manchester via Bahrain make an emergency landing at Kuwait Airport following an engine fire. As a result, passengers were stranded for 13 hours. In relation to yesterday's mishap, a spokesman for Virgin Atlantic said: 'The VS358 flight from London Heathrow to Mumbai on 2nd April was cancelled due to an urgent medical diversion to Diyarbakr Airport in Turkey, followed by technical inspections of the aircraft. 'The safety and security of our customers and crew remains our highest priority, and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused. 'With the necessary technical approvals now in place, we will continue flight VS1358 from Diyarbakr Airport at approximately 12:00 local time on Friday 4th April, arriving in Mumbai at approximately 20:30 local. 'The majority of our customers were provided with overnight hotel accommodation ahead of their onward journey today. Wed like to sincerely apologise for the delay and any inconvenience caused.' They added the customer had been 'severely unwell'. An influencer has narrowly escaped death after she was stung by a box jellyfish, one of the world's most venomous creatures. Julie, an Irish travel content creator, was on a three-day boat trip in the Philippines, following the popular route from Coron to El Nido. On the first day of the trip, Julie waded into shallow waters while filming for a brand collaboration on her social media. She didn't notice the jellyfish as she submerged herself but later described feeling something that felt like 'jelly' in the water. It wasn't until she stood up that she felt a 'burning' sensation on her thighs, comparing it to having a flat iron pressed against her skin. In 'excruciating' pain, she screamed and ran back to the beach where she was attended to by an Australian nurse and doctor who were luckily on the boat tour. She credits the couple for helping her 'get through it' and managing the intense pain. The pair closely monitored her condition, knowing that a sting from a box jellyfish - which are also common in Australian waters, contain a neurotoxin that could trigger a heart attack or cause paralysis. Julie, an Irish travel content creator, was on a three-day boat trip in the Philippines, following the popular route from Coron to El Nido, when she was stung by a box jellyfish Julie, who was fearing for her life, said the stinging sensation lasted all day. Later, she learned that she was fortunate to be stung on the leg, as a sting to the neck, wrist, ankle, or bellybutton could have been fatal. The tour guide retrieved the jellyfish and found its tentacles were 2metres long. Dr Lisa-ann Gershwin, Director of the Australian Marine Stinger Advisory Services, told Yahoo News the Irish tourist was 'lucky to be alive.' 'It can take as little as three metres of stings to kill a healthy adult, and it happens in less than two minutes. For children, it's only 1.2 metres,' she said. 'Not everybody stung by a box jellyfish will die, but if you've been stung beyond that lethal threshold, you're statistically likely to.' Over 10 months on from the sting, Julie said she has permanent nerve damage from the sting and ongoing gut issues. The last Australian to die from a box jellyfish was in 2022, when 14-year-old Mark Angelo Ligmayo tragically died after being stung at Eimeo Beach, north of Mackay in Queensland In Australia, box jellyfish are found along the far north Queensland coast and extend across northern Australia to Western Australia. In contrast, countries like the Philippines where prevention measures are less advanced, experience 20 to 50 deaths in the same period. The last Australian to die from a box jellyfish was in 2022, when 14-year-old Mark Angelo Ligmayo tragically died after being stung at Eimeo Beach, north of Mackay. Donald Trump made a 'mistake' when he slapped almost 30 per cent tariffs on Norfolk Island and the tiny Aussie outpost will actually instead face the same rate as the rest of the country. The Australian territory, which has a population of about 2,000 people and is located 1,500km east of Australia in the Pacific Ocean, was hit with a with a 29 per cent reciprocal tariff by the US administration on Thursday. The decision bamboozled Prime Minister Anthony Albanese because the rest of Australia - of which Norfolk Island is a part - received the baseline tariff of 10 per cent. 'I'm not sure that Norfolk Island, with respect to it, is a threat to the United States economy, and therefore, I think it being singled out is rather strange,' the Prime Minister said on Thursday. And now the Norfolk Island Administrator, George Plant, has told Daily Mail Australia that the territory has received assurances from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that it will not be singled out. Mr Plant said he and the island's inhabitants were 'shocked' at the 'very strange' decision. 'We don't expect to get involved in trade disputes with the United States and the rest of the world,' he added. 'We have no exports to the USA so we don't know where they got their numbers from.' Donald Trump (pictured) made a 'mistake' when he slapped almost 30 per cent tariffs on Norfolk Island and the tiny Aussie outpost will instead face the same rate as the rest of the country The decision bamboozled Prime Minister Anthony Albanese because the rest of Australia - of which Norfolk Island (pictured) is a part - received the baseline tariff of 10 per cent The island's famous pine trees were used by Captain Cook for masts for the British fleet after the island was settled in 1788. And in the 1800s and early 1900s, many American whaling ships stopped on Norfolk Island during their voyages across the Pacific Ocean. But there is no history of trade between the island and the US. 'Uninhabited islands like the Heard and McDonald Islands were also on the list so we are not sure what's going on there,' Mr Plant added. 'The last thing to be traded in that part of the world was probably fur seals.' The Heard and McDonald Islands, which contain two active volcanoes, sit around 6,000km from the Australian mainland and are home to a colony of penguins, birds and seal, and no humans. They received a 10 per cent tariff in Trump's initial announcement. Mr Plant said the decision to include Norfolk Island initially was 'clearly an error'. But he does not hold it against the US President. 'Our main business is welcoming tourists to our beautiful island and President Trump is welcome to come and visit at any time,' he said. 'But it's not for sale.' Keir Starmer last night signalled he is ready to impose retaliatory tariffs on the United States as soon as next month unless he can secure a trade deal with Donald Trump. The Prime Minister said he was still focused on getting a deal with President Trump that could spare British firms the worst impacts of the US tariff blitz. But, in a toughening of the UKs stance, he set a May 1 deadline for a consultation on launching a tit-for-tat response and published a 417-page dossier of US goods that could be hit. Sir Keir said he would not jump into retaliatory action with both feet at the get go. But, in the wake of Wednesday nights bombshell announcement from the White House, he added: I accept that we need to go further. I accept that we need to preserve our options, which is why all options are on the table. Mr Trumps decision to levy 10 per cent tariffs on British imports with 25 per cent levies on cars and steel threatens to derail Labours economic plans, and increases the risk that Rachel Reeves will have to raise taxes or cut spending at the autumn Budget to meet her fiscal rules. The Office for Budget Responsibility warned this week that the Chancellors fiscal headroom would be knocked out in the event of a trade war. In a downbeat assessment yesterday, the PM said there would clearly be an economic impact from the decisions the US has taken both here and globally. The Prime Minister said he was still focused on getting a deal with President Trump that could spare British firms the worst impacts of the US tariff blitz The Office for Budget Responsibility warned this week that the Chancellors fiscal headroom would be knocked out in the event of a trade war He said big progress had been made on a trade deal, which ministers had hoped to agree before Mr Trumps Liberation Day announcement on tariffs. Ministers fear the US President could even announce further tariffs in the coming days, with the pharmaceuticals sector a likely target. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the launch of a consultation on retaliatory tariffs was a formal step, necessary for us to keep all options on the table. He said businesses would have until May 1 to have their say and influence the design of any possible UK action including products that could potentially be included in any UK tariff response. He added: If we are in a position to agree an economic deal with the US that lifts the tariffs that have been placed on our industries, this request for input will be paused, and any measures flowing from that will be lifted. Downing Street declined to set out the likely impact of Mr Trumps tariff package on UK exports. But economists have suggested they could affect around 70 per cent of the UKs 60billion annual exports to the US. The European Commission yesterday said it expected tariffs to impact 70 per cent of its own US exports, worth 320billion. Tory peer Lord Hannan described the tariffs as bats*** crazy, adding: They will cause a recession. Shadow trade secretary Andrew Griffith urged ministers to find other ways of easing pressure on British business, including ditching the controversial Employment Rights Bill. He told Mr Reynolds to put ideology aside, put the unions on hold and put the Government on the side of British business. Mr Trump appeared to have deliberately waited until markets were closed to make his announcement Donald Trump confirmed that the UK will not escape the pain of levies he claims will restore 'fairness' in global trade Lib Dem deputy leader Daisy Cooper urged ministers to work with the EU on others on a massive retaliatory package. If the Government give in to Trumps threats, it will only encourage him to use the same bullying tactics again and again, she said. Mr Reynolds yesterday published a 417-page list of US products that could potentially be hit with tariffs, covering everything from motorbikes and rollercoasters to beef and bourbon, leaving open the possibility that iconic US brands such as Harley-Davidson and Jack Daniels could be affected. Tariffs of 25 per cent on British car exports to the UK came into force yesterday, while those on steel and aluminium have been in place since February. The blanket 10 per cent rate will take effect tomorrow. Mr Reynolds yesterday told MPs that the Government was also poised to act if Mr Trumps global trade war resulted in cheap goods destined for the US market being dumped in Britain. He said the Government would be extremely vigilant about domestic suppliers being undercut, and said ministers had already used quotas and tariffs to protect the British steel sector. JCB has become the first major British manufacturer to say it will bolster its US operations in response to Donald Trump's tariffs. Lord Bamford, chairman of the British company, said it would double the size of its new factory in Texas and 'make even more products in the US' after the President announced punitive global tariffs. The announcement will worry Labour as it tries to keep the UK economy growing amid fears that there will be job losses as a result. President Trump announced protectionist tariffs on all US imports as part of his plans to 'Make America Wealthy Again'. Tariffs are ultimately designed to protect domestic manufacturing, boost jobs and convince consumers to buy local products. The President said the taxes would bring jobs 'roaring back' to the US and warned that other countries needed to start buying 'tens of billions of dollars of American goods'. JCB's announcement that it will increase its 500,000-square-foot factory, currently under construction, to a million square feet and create jobs for 1,500 people will worry Labour. Lord Bamford said: 'JCB has been in business for 80 years this year and we are well accustomed to change. Lord Bamford (pictured), chairman of the British company, said it would double the size of its new factory in Texas and 'make even more products in the US' after the President announced punitive global tariffs Donald Trump pictured reading many of the tariffs off the chart during the press conference on April 2 A worker pictured attending to machinery inside the JCB factory in Rochester, Staffordshire 'The United States is the largest market for construction equipment in the world and President Trump has galvanised us into evaluating how we can make even more products in the USA, which has been an important market for JCB since we sold our first machine there in 1964.' JCB began in 1945 as one man in a garage in Uttoxeter in Staffordshire building agricultural tipping trailers. It has since expanded to become a great British success story and now has 22 plants on four continents, more than 750 dealers around the world and a workforce of more than 15,000. The company is still based in Staffordshire, has 11 plants in the UK and employs 8,000 people. Asked about JCB's plans, a Downing Street spokesman said it was a commercial decision but he added: 'Our approach to business is to engage, to listen and to act in a pragmatic way, and although we recognise that the UK is in a relatively more favourable position than other countries, the impact on the UK will be real, and our focus is working with businesses to analyse the impacts of this decision and to continue to work with the US to lower trade barriers.' British manufacturers urged Sir Keir Starmer to strike an economic deal with the US to reduce the new tariffs, which are set at 10per cent. UK car makers are also reviewing whether to cut production after the industry was hit with 25 per cent tariffs on exports to the US. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said he will continue to engage with businesses and to seek an economic deal with the US to lessen the impact of the levies Inside the JCB factory in Rocester, Staffordshire, where the British company produces its heavy machinery that is used across the globe If they scale back output across Britain to cope with higher costs or reduce the number of models that are delivered to the US it could have an impact on workers. About 17 per cent of all cars made for export in Britain are shipped to America. Some brands in the luxury market, including Jaguar Land Rover and Aston Martin, will be more exposed than others. Senior executives from several industries were invited to a meeting at Downing Street to be briefed on the Government's next steps yesterday morning. Sir Keir has said he will continue to engage with businesses and to seek an economic deal with the US to lessen the impact of the levies. Baby P's monster mother Tracey Connelly has been granted another chance at freedom 18 years after her son was tortured to death. Connelly, 42, who was hauled back to jail in September for breaching her jail conditions, has been promised an oral parole hearing, according to reports. She was handed an indefinite sentence with a minimum term of five years in 2009, after covering up her 17-month-old son Peter's injuries caused by her twisted lover. The tot died at home in Tottenham, north London on August 3, 2007, and Connelly pleaded guilty to causing or allowing the death of a child in 2008. Connelly has struggled to stay out of trouble since her initial release in 2013, having repeatedly breached her licence conditions. The vile mum was first recalled to prison in 2015 after selling naked photos of herself online to depraved male admirers - and was released again in July 2022. Now insiders have told The Sun that Connelly may be free again by the end of the year. A date has not yet been set for her parole hearing, but it is believed it will take place around late summer - in August or September. Baby P's monster mother Tracey Connelly (pictured) has been granted another chance at freedom 18 years after her son was tortured to death Baby Peter died at home in Tottenham, north London on August 3, 2007 and Connelly pleaded guilty to causing or allowing the death of a child in 2008 Connelly (pictured) has struggled to stay out of trouble since her initial release in 2013, having repeatedly breached her licence conditions The parole board could decide to release her there and then, depending on the circumstances surrounding how she was recalled and her behaviour since. They may also direct a hearing to take place, where a panel will decide after assessing various pieces of material, evidence and information. Or they could decide not to release her. Former Met Police Detective Peter Bleksley said: 'Whatever happened to three strikes and you're out. 'How many more chances does this woman need? 'This is another example of the fluffy and liberal thinking that plagues most of the criminal justice system including the Parole Board, who seem hell-bent on bending over backwards to let people out rather than keep them in.' Connelly previously claimed that cops over-reacted when they recalled her to prison for a second time, saying the breaches of her licence conditions were minimal. Her lawyers have also insisted that she is no longer a danger to the public. Connelly's lover Steven Barker was jailed in 2009 for a minimum of 12 years while his brother, Jason Owen, received a six-year jail sentence for allowing the toddler to die. Connelly was also recalled to prison in 2015 after selling naked photos of herself online to depraved male admirers Connelly's lover Steven Barker was jailed in 2009 for a minimum of 12 years for causing or allowing the death of 17-month-old Peter Connelly, who died after months of abuse Barker's brother, Jason Owen, received a six-year jail sentence for allowing the toddler to die When Connolly was first released, she was made subject to 20 licence conditions, including having to wear an electronic tag and disclose all her relationships, having her Internet use monitored and obeying a curfew. She was also banned from going to certain places to 'avoid contact with victims and to protect children'. The Parole Board said that she had been cleared due to a low risk of reoffending and that probation officers and prison officials supported the plan. It will now be a matter for the Board to decide if the latest breach of her conditions was so serious that she should not be released. A Parole Board spokesperson said: 'It's been directed to an oral hearing now but no hearing date has been set yet.' Detectives have confirmed they are looking into reports of multiple incidents at a school after a five-year-old was allegedly sexually assaulted in the playground. Details are believed to have been initially shared by the girl's mother on a private WhatsApp group following the incident at a primary school in North Rocks, in Sydney's northwest, on March 7. The mother claimed the boys 'grabbed' her daughter, 'forcibly removed' her underwear, and 'touched and scratched' her insides in messages seen by 7News. 'Her injuries were so severe that we had to take her to the hospital, where she needed local anesthetics to urinate for several days,' she reportedly said. And Daily Mail Australia can now reveal that NSW police are looking into more than one allegation of sexual assault at the same school. A statement said an investigation was launched on March 9 'following reports of incidents involving students at a primary school in North Rocks earlier this year'. 'Police continue to work closely with the Department of Community and Justice and the NSW Department of Education,' it said. The school's principal has confirmed the initial alleged incident was being investigated and sent an email to parents about the 'allegation of inappropriate conduct' on March 24. A five-year-old girl was allegedly 'sexually assaulted' by a group of boys at a Sydney primary school on March 7 (stock image) The school's principal addressed the alleged incident in an email to parents after the girl's mum shared confronting details in a private WhatsApp group chat The email said 'any allegations of inappropriate behaviour are promptly investigated'. 'The safety and wellbeing of students are our highest priorities,' it read. 'Recently an allegation was made around the inappropriate conduct of some of our students. This matter has been reported to police, and the Department of Education have been informed of the allegations. 'As these allegations are under investigation by police and the Department of Education, we are not able to provide any further information at this time.' The school has not responded to Daily Mail Australia about other alleged incidents. Further messages from the mother in the WhatsApp group claimed staff cleaned blood from her daughter's legs and clothes but didn't inform the parents of the children involved about the alleged incident. A group of boys were understood to have been absent for several days last week following the principal's acknowledgement of the alleged incident. The school, NSW Police and the Department of Education have not responded to Daily Mail Australia's query over whether the alleged group remain suspended. The alleged incident is being investigated by police and the NSW Department of Education (stock image) The education department originally referred the matter to NSW Police, who confirmed officers had spoken with the girl's parents. An investigation by the department of education has been launched under the oversight of the Office of the Children's Guardian. This office monitors how investigations and reported allegations of inappropriate conduct towards children are handled within organisations. A driver has been rushed to hospital after becoming trapped in the wreckage of a bus crash that saw the vehicle sliced in half by a large tree. Emergency services were called to Modbury Interchange, near the Tea Tree Plaza Interchange Park'n'Ride, in northeast Adelaide, at about 9:30am on Friday. The force of the collision split the front of the bus in half, with the tree trunk remaining inside the middle of the vehicle. The front seats of the bus were crumpled and glass shards from the shattered windshield were strewn across the crash site. SA Metropolitan Fire Services firefighters worked for 20 minutes to free the driver, a man in his 40s, using specialised cutting tools. The driver suffered significant injuries and was rushed to Royal Adelaide Hospital. Luckily, there were no other passengers on the bus at the time of the crash. The bus interchange at Tea Tree Plaza is currently closed, affecting 20 bus routes. The impact of the crash split the bus in two. Luckily there were no passengers onboard Firefighters spent 20 minutes working to free the driver, a man aged in his 40s, from the wreckage before he was rushed to hospital with significant injuries The O-Bahn track is also closed in both directions between the Tea Tree Plaza and Paradise interchanges. Adelaide Metro, which runs the public transport services, have allocated staff at the interchange to help direct passengers to alternative stops. Passengers are being advised to allow for additional travel time for service detours and are urged to check the Adelaide Metro website for affected routes and updates. An American couple imprisoned in Mexico are on their way back to the United States and thanking President Donald Trump for his work to free them. Christy and Paul Akeo had been languishing behind bars in a maximum security Cancun prison, accused of defrauding Palace Resorts out of more than $116,000. In a video exclusively obtained by DailyMail.com, the couple, along with Michigan Representative Tom Barrett, are seen on a private plane returning to the United States. They thank President Trump for his help. A week ago, the president read the news and 'reached out to his hostage team to resolve immediately,' a senior White House official told DailyMail.com. The hostage team, led by Adam Boehler, 'reached out to the CEO of Palace Resorts who agreed to drop all charges to get them out of jail ASAP,' the official said. The couple will land in Michigan later Thursday evening. Rep. Tom Barrett and Christy and Paul Akeo on the plane flying back to the U.S. President Donald Trump sent his hostage team to help free the Akeos The Akeos, who spent a month in prison, said the issue was merely a contract dispute after they clawed back 13 payments they made to the timeshare resort between 2021 and 2022 because they felt their contract had been breached. On Wednesday, Rep. Barrett traveled to Cancun. He put the Akeos on a plane and sent a thank you video to the president, recording it on the ride home. 'We are one on our way back to the United States,' he said in the video. 'Thank you so much for your help, your investment in this cause and you team and everything you did to help them get loose and get free.' 'It's a great day to be an American. Thank you very much,' he added. The Akeos also gave Trump their thanks. 'Thank you so much President Trump,' Christy said. 'We appreciate it more than you even know.' 'We appreciate everything,' Paul added. The couple said in a statement that they came to an agreement with the Palace Company 'that $116,587.84, the amount that was contested by the Akeos and refunded to them by American Express, will be donated to a bona fide established nonprofit in Mexico benefiting orphan children.' The statement added: Each party regrets that this incident occurred. We thank President Donald J. Trump, Michigan Congressman Tom Barrett and Special Presidential Envoy Adam Boehler for their efforts to mediate this dispute.' Boehler is on the plane with Barrett and the Akeos. 'No President has ever done more to bring Americans home from around the world than President Trump. To Paul and Christie Akeo welcome home!' White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told DailyMail.com. 'Sleepy Joe would have let these Americans rot in Mexican prison. President Trump saw their story and immediately took action. What a difference a president can make! Promises made. Promises kept.' A judge had earlier ruled the couple must remain in custody in Mexico until the next court date, which had not been set for another six months. A judge ruled Palace Resorts would have six more months to gather evidence against the couple and build their case, ordering the couple to remain behind bars as the case proceeds The American couple imprisoned in Mexico over a hotel timeshare dispute have been pictured for the first time since they were arrested almost a month ago The couple were immediately detained in Cancun on March 4 after stepping off a plane from Michigan and thrown in maximum security prison. The daughter Lindsey insists her parents were within their rights to dispute the credit card transactions after the resort breached the contract they'd signed. She has accused the resort of setting her parents up and holding them captive as retribution. But the company hit back, arguing that Interpol certified the arrest warrant after the couple defrauded more than $116,000 - then encouraged other Americans to do the same. 'Paul and Christy Akeo fraudulently disputed legitimate credit card charges and publicly encouraged others to do the same,' a company spokesperson told ABC. The couple were immediately detained in Cancun on March 4 after stepping off a plane from Michigan and thrown in maximum security prison The messy saga centers around a timeshare investment they first made in 2016 and continued to upgrade 18 times as the years wore on, totaling a $1.409million investment into Palace Resorts In a separate statement, the company said: 'They were found to have breached their contract by promoting, for profit and/or commercial purposes, preferential rates and various benefits via social media which consequently led to the withdrawal of supplementary benefits initially included in their contract.' It went on to suggest the couple may have been 'disgruntled with the consequences of their actions', prompting them to first dispute recent charges and stopping future payments entirely. The messy saga centered around a timeshare investment they first made in 2016 and continued to upgrade 18 times as the years wore on, totaling a $1.409million investment into Palace Hotels. Christy herself told another hotel goer that she often visited the resort once a month to escape Michigan's dreary weather, making the most of her $500,000 investment into the venue. But when they weren't using the resort, they would advertise their room out on social media channels, primarily Facebook, offering all-inclusive food and drink packages, manicures and massages, as well as the accommodation. Christy claimed her relationship went south with Palace because she and Paul successfully referred so many members that they'd amassed a huge amount of free week-long stays, which were used as incentives for members to lure in new clients. One of Kamala Harris's own top campaign advisors knew the candidate had stumbled badly when she failed to summon something she would have done differently than the unpopular President Joe Biden in an appearance on 'the View.' Appearing on the popular daytime show just a month before the elections during her truncated campaign, Harris was unsteady in several of her media appearances. On the view, her advisor Stephanie Cutter was floored when Harris got asked if there was anything she would have done differently than Biden. 'There is not a thing that comes to mind,' Harris responded, looking upward, then offering that she had been 'a part of most of the decisions that have had impact.' 'What the hell was that?' Cutter said she thought at the time. 'That's not what we practiced.' Her response was chronicled in the new book Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House, by reporters Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes. It also tells of other key moments, like a 'cringe' video clip where Harris had to feign surprise at picking up the endorsement of Barack and Michelle Obama. Failing to identify a single issue where she parted with Biden yoked her even more to the president, who had bowed out after his debate disaster but was also unpopular in opinion polls going back years. It denied her the opportunity to hold up a policy difference that might define her as something different beyond being a younger alternative. 'It provided the money shot' for negative ads that would tie link Harris and Biden. 'And it was her own bad moment.' No daylight: VP Kamala Harris said there is 'not a thing that comes to mind' when asked on ABC's 'The View' if there was anything she would have done differently than President Joe Biden 'When she gave us the gift of the View interview, we were able to anchor her to the Biden administration in her own words, which is something we were trying to do anyway,' a Trump advisor told the authors. Others articulated the same sentiment in real-time. 'Kamala Harris is more of the same. She admits it herself,' then-SEn. JD Vance posted on X. Donald Trump, Jr. was even more forceful, as DailyMail.com reported at the time. 'And just like that, Kamala's entire bull**** campaign about being a 'change agent' collapses. You can't call yourself a change agent when you not only agree with every single disaster Joe Biden is responsible for, but you brag about being involved in all those decisions!,' he wrote on X. Harris had just weeks to try to assemble a campaign and decide on a message, while running on Biden's record in her race against Donald Trump Aides had given Harris a list of items that made her 'proud of her work with Biden.' It came as party leaders were in a bind, feeling the need to build up Biden for having relinquish power, even while racing to build up Harris's bio for her run on her own after a brief and unsuccessful primary campaign in 2020. Many of Biden's top aides remained on the campaign, as Harris brought in some of her own people, partly to accommodate the lack of time to set up a new one. Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House hits bookshelves on Tuesday Cutter helped produce the last two Democratic conventions, advised President Obama's 2012 campaign, and was a longtime advisor to Sen. Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts. Harris urged self care in a rare appearance in her home state of California Thursday, where she is considering a potential run for governor. 'We can't go out there and do battle if we don't take care of ourselves and each other,' she said at a conference of Black women, speaking to some of the anguish among Democrats under President Trump. 'I'll see you out there. I'm not going anywhere,' she told the crowd, the LA Times reported. 'Our commitment to lifting each other up, lifting up our community, lifting up our country has not changed,' Harris said. 'Now what has changed since 2016: We are in the midst of seeing progress being rolled back. Policies that we birthed being rolled back.' A Liberal candidate praised by Peter Dutton has been slammed after he called for all women to be removed from frontline roles in the Australian Defence Force. Benjamin Britton made the comments during an interview on a right-wing podcast in August - two months before his December preselection for the NSW seat of Whitlam in the Illawarra region south of Sydney. Speaking to podcaster Joel Jammal, Mr Britton, who previously served in the Australian Army, said the ADF had become burdened with diversity and equity quotas and other 'bureaucratic nonsense'. 'If we're to fix our defence force, unfortunately they're going to need to remove females from combat corps,' Mr Britton said. 'That's not an attack on females, I served with some of the greatest females in the defence force. 'Tremendous people, and I'm very very glad to have met them and known them because they made my life better knowing them.' But he said young women were being 'pushed' into infantry and front-line combat roles in the ADF in the interest of 'woke Marxist ideologies'. 'The medical discharge rate for females is off the planet. Seventy to eighty per cent are getting medically discharged. Benjamin Britton (pictured) made the comments about women in the ADF during an interview on a right-wing podcast in August In January, Mr Dutton (pictured left) described Mr Britton (pictured right) as an 'outstanding candidate' 'Their hips are being destroyed because they can't cope with the carrying of the heavy loads and the heavy impacts required from doing combat-related jobs.' Young women were being 'put on the altar and sacrificed' for the sake of ideology, he said. Professor Peter Dean, the Director of Foreign Policy and Defence at the University of Sydney's United States Studies Centre, has condemned the comments. 'These are extreme views and they are certainly not the policy of the Coalition or the Government,' Prof Dean told Daily Mail Australia. 'To take such an approach would undermine morale and recruitment abilities of the ADF and remove one of its strengths, which is its diversity and its need to reflect the whole of Australian society. 'The Liberal party need to explain why they pre-selected a candidate with such views and if they agree with them.' Strategic defence expert Michael Shoebridge said the ADF was in a state of 'workforce collapse' as it hovered around 58,000 of a needed 64,000 service personnel. 'Cutting out 50 per cent of the population from the pool of recruits for combat roles will only make our recruitment crisis worse,' Mr Shoebridge said. The January 22 post showed Mr Dutton visiting Moss Vale in the Southern Highlands, which also falls under the Whitlam seat Women currently make up about 20 per cent of people serving in the Australian Defence Force 'Military standards for combat roles can be and are being met by women soldiers. 'Rather than making current problems worse, our politicians need to encourage young Australians to join the Defence Force.' Women currently make up about 20 per cent of people serving in the ADF. Mr Britton's interview emerged after Coalition leader Peter Dutton heaped praise on him in a social media post earlier this year. The January 22 post showed Mr Dutton visiting Moss Vale, which falls under the Whitlam seat. 'Ben's working hard in his community and standing up for local families and small businesses, drawing on his dedication as a veteran and his leadership in the defence industry,' the post said. 'This area has been ignored by a local Labor member who is asleep at the wheel, but with our positive plans and an outstanding candidate like Ben, we'll get this region and our country back on track. 'This area has been ignored by a local Labor member who is asleep at the wheel, but with our positive plans and an outstanding candidate like Ben, we'll get this region and our country Back on Track.' Mr Britton served in the Australian Army's 3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment. He unsuccessfully ran for the United Australia Party in the 2022. Mr Britton will contest Whitlam against Labor's Carol Berry in May's federal election. Katrina Hodgkinson withdrew as the Nationals candidate on Thursday. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Mr Britton and Mr Dutton for comment. The cost of firebrand former Labor leader Mark Latham's homophobic tweet about a political rival has more than tripled and is set to cost more than half a million dollars. Independent NSW MP Alex Greenwich was awarded $140,000 in damages in September after he successfully sued the former federal opposition leader. Mr Latham, now a right-wing independent MP, was found to have defamed his left-wing colleague in a tweet that explicitly described a sex act. Mr Latham rejected a settlement offer a month after the tweet was posted, the Federal Court was told. The offer involved a retraction of the comments, $20,000 in compensation and an apology that Mr Greenwich's barrister said was not 'grovelling or humiliating' or requiring an admission the comments were defamatory. Instead, they recognised it caused distress, Matt Collins KC said. A court later found Mr Latham's homophobic tweet exposed Mr Greenwich, who is gay and a prominent LGBTQI community advocate, to a torrent of hateful abuse including death threats. It was posted at the time of the 2023 state election in response to a post that quoted Mr Greenwich describing Mr Latham as a 'disgusting human being'. Independent NSW MP Alex Greenwich was awarded $140,000 in damages after he sued former Labor leader Mark Latham for defamation following a tweet that explicitly described a sex act Latham (pictured) was ordered to pay Mr Greenwich's legal fees on a party-party basis which normally covers around 70 per cent. His legal costs were estimated to exceed $600,000 Mr Latham's lawyer argued the former One Nation MP should only have to pay a quarter of his rival's costs because it was not unreasonable for him to refuse the settlement offer. He noted an apology to a political rival 'could be used against' Mr Latham for the rest of his career, and stressed the difficulty of complying with the requirement to disable and monitor commentary on his apology. Justice David O'Callaghan agreed it was not unreasonable for Mr Latham to reject the offer, finding the undertakings sought were 'very broad and unlimited in time'. But the judge ordered the former Labor leader pay his rival's legal costs on a party-party basis, which normally covers around 70 per cent of the fees incurred. Mr Greenwich's legal costs have been estimated to exceed $600,000. The tweet also cost Mr Latham politically after the governing Labor party cited it as a reason it would not engage with him on legislation in the evenly balanced upper house. His eight-year term - attracting an annual base salary of $172,500 - runs until 2031. Lifeline 13 11 14 Fullstop Australia 1800 385 578 Human remains have been discovered just 1km from where police located the abandoned vehicle of a Queensland mum who vanished over two months ago. Investigators searching for Tayla Spies discovered the 29-year-old's 2017 Toyota Hilux near Noorindoo, a town 460km west of Brisbane, about 3pm on Thursday. The Hilux was found at a Yuleba-Surat Road property about five minutes' drive from where the young mum was last seen. Detective Chief Inspector Garry Watts told a press conference on Friday that human remains had been located about 1km from the vehicle. 'Although we cannot confirm at this stage that those remains are those of Tayla, we suspect they may be,' Insp Watts said. 'However a complete forensic examination will need to be conducted to verify that. 'The next of kin of Tayla have been advised of this update.' Detectives confirmed the ute was Ms Spies' after investigators found items in the vehicle which belonged to the missing mum. Human remains have been discovered just 1km from where police located the abandoned vehicle of Queensland mum Tayla Spies (pictured) who vanished over two months ago Detectives confirmed the ute was Ms Spies' (pictured) after investigators found items in the vehicle which belonged to the missing mum The location of the vehicle is a backroad deviation from the more direct route to Ms Spies' hometown of Roma on the Carnarvon Hwy. Ms Spies - pronounced 'Speez' - had spent the night before she went missing at the Windsor Hotel in Dalby. The next day the mother-of-three drove west and stopped at a service station in Surat, where she was captured on CCTV. She was later observed north of Surat, driving on the Carnarvon Highway - this was the last time she was seen. Police had been searching a 9,000 square kilometre area of remote bushland around the towns of Surat, Yuleba, Meandarra and Glenmorgan before they found Ms Spies' vehicle. They have also accessed her social media accounts and were monitoring her bank accounts. A friend of the Spies family had offered a $5,000 reward for information that could lead to her discovery. Speaking on a video released by the Queensland Police last month, Tayla's sister Rebecca Spies said the family had no knowledge of anybody having seen or spoken to her since she went missing. The mother-of-three was captured on CCTV at a petrol station in Surat before she vanished Ms Spies spent the night at a hotel in Dalby before stopping at a gas station and then driving north 'We have no knowledge if she is OK. The pain and enormity of her absence increases with each each day that passes. And the worry is consuming us all,' she said. 'My sister Tayla is funny, brave, thoughtful and is always there for people when they need her. She loves her family wholeheartedly and never lets us forget it.' Police have released a composite image of one of the arsonists they believe to be responsible for the death of a young woman in a house fire. Katie Tangey, 27, was killed while house-sitting her brother's home at Dover Street in Truganina, in Melbourne's west, on January 16, and his dog Sunny also perished in the flames. The culprits are believed to have targeted the wrong home in a planned attack linked to Victoria's illegal tobacco wars. On Friday, Victorian Police released the suspect's sketch in the hopes that it will lead to a breakthrough in their investigation. Previously, detectives from Victoria Police's Arson and Explosives Squad released CCTV footage from a Ring security camera which captured the arsonists setting fire to the house. Officers used this footage to create their composite sketch of one of the arsonists and how he was dressed on the night. The man is described as Middle Eastern in appearance with a slim build and aged between 25 and 30 years old, and that night he was wearing an orange hoodie. Detective Inspector Chris Murray said Ms Tangey's death was one of 'unimaginable horror'. Victorian Police have released a composite image of one of the arsonists involved in a fatal house fire in Melbourne's west on January 16 Detectives believe the fire was deliberate but that it was a case of mistaken identity amongst figures in Melbourne's illicit tobacco trade 'Katie Tangey was 27, she had her whole life ahead of her and the night this occurred she was staying away from home for the first time ever,' he said. 'Katie had just enough time to call triple-0 and she would have spent her final moments on her own, knowing she was going to die. 'It is an unimaginable horror I hope nobody else has to experience.' Investigators believe the arson attack was part of a series of a fire-bombings across Melbourne in turf battles between rival criminal groups trying to control the city's illegal tobacco trade. Information received by detectives indicated it was a targeted attack, but the culprits got the wrong address. Police could establish no other reason why Ms Tangey - a burlesque dancer known as Vivien May-Royale - or her brother would have been targeted. Ms Tangey was staying in the home while her brother Ethan and his new wife Brooke were on their honeymoon. Katie Tangey, 27, and her brother's Golden Retriever Sunny both died in the targeted house fire on Dover Street in Truganina Police set up an information caravan on Dover Street and urged anyone with information about the crime to stop by on Thursday. In particular officers are seeking information about a dark-coloured car similar to a BMW X3 or X5 which the arsonists used to get to and from the scene. The dark coloured vehicle was captured on CCTV travelling north on Forsyth Road in Truganina about 2.12am. An anonymous call to Crime Stoppers had already provided officers with names of the suspects but Inspector Murray said he believes they were informal 'street names'. Since receiving the call police have been urging whoever made it to get back in contact with them again. Inspector Murray said all this collective work is inching officers closer to the suspects. 'We know this is solvable, and we know we are getting closer. We know this because there are people out there who are talking and who are providing information,' he said. 'If you know anything no matter how small please, make the right choice for Katie and her family.' Officers previously released CCTV footage showing the moment one of the arsonists initially lit the fire which claimed Ms Tangey's life Ms Tangey did manage to call triple-0 on the night of the fire to say the home was alight, but she was unable to escape. Emergency services were called about 2.30am - more than 20 minutes after the townhouse was set alight. Ms Tangey and Sunny died at the scene and the three-storey townhouse was completely destroyed. Detectives had failed to determine a motive for the attack and who was responsible until Taskforce Lunar, a group tasked with ending Melbourne's tobacco war, uncovered information linking the incident to the illicit tobacco dispute. Inspector Murray vowed those responsible would be caught and brought to justice. 'We know this is solvable. We know this, because there are people out there who have information about who is responsible at all levels of this offence,' he said. 'We also know this is the type of crime even the most hardened criminal would be disgusted with we implore them to come forward and tells us what they know via Crime Stoppers. As always, it can be done anonymously.' Ms Tangey's family previously described her as the 'heart of our world'. Anyone with information or who recognises those or the vehicle involved is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au Yale Law has fired an Iranian scholar over claims she refused to cooperate in an investigation into her alleged ties to a US-designated 'sham charity' linked to a terrorist group. Iranian-born Helyeh Doutaghi was fired from the Ivy League school on March 28, three weeks after being put on administrative leave over allegations that she was part of the Samidoun Network - a US-designated terrorist organization. But, Doutaghi, 30, an outspoken critic of Israel who worked at the prestigious university as an associate research scholar and deputy director of the school's Law and Political Economy Project, has since denied the claims. She believes she was fired because of her criticism of the war in Gaza, as colleges around the country face financial pressure to crack down on antisemitism from the Trump administration. In a statement, Yale Law said that the Doutaghi, who is in the US on a visa, was terminated after she refused, for several weeks, to appear in person to answer questions about 'serious allegations' that included a possible connection to the 'charity.' 'Over the last three weeks, Yale has repeatedly requested to meet with Ms. Doutaghi and her attorney to obtain clarifying information and resolve this matter,' Yale spokesperson Alden Ferro said in a statement. 'Unfortunately, she has refused to meet to provide any responses to critical questions, including whether she has ever engaged in prohibited activity with organizations or individuals that were placed on the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons list.' Helyeh Doutaghi, 30, a Yale Law School scholar, was fired on March 28 after she refused to cooperate in an investigation into her alleged ties to a US-designated 'sham charity' linked to a terrorist group In a statement, Yale Law said that the Doutaghi, who is in the US on a visa, was terminated after she refused, for several weeks, to appear in person to answer questions about 'serious allegations' that included a possible connection to the 'charity.' Pictured: Sterling Law Building, at Yale Law School in New Haven, Connecticut The Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network was designated in October as a 'sham charity that serves as an international fundraiser for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine terrorist organization' by both the US and Canada, the Associated Press reported. The university, located in New Haven, Connecticut, cited a posting on Samidoun's website which identifies Doutaghi as a member of the group among the materials it was reviewing. Doutaghi, however, said that posting was from 2022 when Samidoun wasnt designated as a terror-supporting group. She added that the Ivy League school has yet to produce any evidence that she was involved in such a group. Another webpage listed the Iranian scholar as a speaker in an online panel discussion in October 2024 sponsored by Samidoun and other groups. However, Doutaghi said she did not take part in that event because it was canceled or postponed and that Samidoun was not the main organizer of the discussion. When asked if she was a member of Samidoun, or affiliated with it in some other way, she would only say that she is not involved in any group that violates US law, according to the Associated Press. Doutaghi and her lawyer, Eric Lee, said they offered to answer Yale's questions about her affiliations in writing as the 30-year-old immigrant said her concerns about being detained and deported were a factor in not wanting to appear in person. 'This has become part of the fascism that is unfolding in this country, that people who dare to speak up against genocide and the US support for it and complicity in it, they have to expect to pay the price with their careers, with their livelihoods, with their jobs, students with their degrees, as we've seen at Columbia, we've seen at Cornell and elsewhere,' she said in a phone interview, referring to pro-Palestinian students at those schools who have been targeted for deportation. The allegations about Doutaghi were first made by Jewish Onliner, a Substack 'Empowered by A.I. capabilities,' according to its X account. 'Rather than defend me, the Yale Law School moved within less than 24 hours of learning about the report to place me on leave,' Doutaghi wrote in a statement on X earlier this month. Doutaghi and her lawyer, Eric Lee, said they offered to answer Yale's questions about her affiliations in writing as the 30-year-old immigrant said her concerns about being detained and deported were a factor in not wanting to appear in person. Pictured: A student runs through the courtyard at Yale Law School in New Haven, Connecticut 'I was given only a few hours' notice by the administration to attend an interrogation based on far-right AI-generated allegations against me, while enduring a flood of online harassment, death threats, and abuse by Zionist trolls, exacerbating ongoing unprecedented distress and complications both at work and at home.' Doutaghi was appointed deputy director of the Law and Political Economy Project at the unversity in October 2023. According to her bio on the Palestine Center for Public Policy website, her 'research explores the intersections of the Third World Approaches to International Law, encompassing Marxian and postcolonial critiques of law, sanctions, and international political economy.' She is also an incoming post-doctoral fellow at the University of Tehran, according to the website, where her focus will be 'completing her manuscript on Iranian sanctions regime and neoliberalism.' A shocked Aussie flier has revealed chocolate Tim Tams are being given to Air Canada passengers, after they were handed one on a flight to Vancouver. The surprising find was included in his in-flight meal as a sweet treat - and gave the jetsetter a much-appreciated taste of home with as many as they could eat for free. The traveller posted a photograph on Reddit of the biscuit from his airline passenger seat, and joked: 'I think I ate like 60 bucks worth. 'The ticket to Vancouver was $1000, but I can see someone making that up in free Tim Tams, or taking them all back to sell again. Possible future side hustle?' Fellow Australians were surprised to see the Tim Tams being offered on a foreign airline and so easily available overseas. But one Canadian revealed: 'Tim Tams are widely available in Canada. 'You can easily find them at IGA or Metro in Quebec; Loblaws or Sobeys elsewhere in Canada.' While Arnotts, the maker of Tim Tams, is now owned by US-based food giant Campbell's, the biscuits themselves are still proudly made in Australia. The user revealed that Air Canada was handing out Tim Tams on a flight to Vancouver The biscuits are also officially sold by Arnotts in stores across the United States, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Indonesia, New Zealand, and the Philippines. Packaging for some of the Tim Tams sold in America include the slogan 'Australia's Favorite Cookie'. One Reddit user suggested Australia should '...do what France did to champagne. They can only be called Tim Tams if they're made in the Tim Tam region of Newcastle'. Another added: 'Australia needs to nationalise Tim Tams from Arnott's...for national security.' One eagle-eyed user also spotted a portion of Bega cheese in the image and joked that its presence was proof of 'Commonwealth countries banding together'. I've heard it said that you want political leaders to appear calm, especially in a crisis. But the schtick of calmness equating to competence fades away when the political leader instead appears like they couldn't care less about what's happening. Today Anthony Albanese was asked about the cyber attack on Australian superannuation accounts. Cyber criminals have carried out a co-ordinated hit on some of the country's biggest super funds. As many as 600 accounts with Australian Super may have fallen victim to fraud, and that's just one super body of at least five targeted. Rest CEO Vicki Doyle said 8,000 member accounts were affected. Hundreds of Australian Retirement Trust members have also been targeted. We are at the early stages of knowing how far and wide this attack stretches. Big deal? Not if you ask Albo. Anthony Albanese (pictured today on the campaign trail) was asked about the cyber attack on Australian superannuation and immediately played it down When asked about the attacks he sought to play them down, saying cyber attacks happen 'every six minutes', before getting back to his election lines attacking the threat Peter Dutton poses if he becomes PM. Ironic if you think about it. 'I have been informed about that. We will respond in time', the PM told journalists. 'We're considering what has occurred but bear in mind the context here. There is an attack, a cyberattack in Australia about every six minutes. This is a regular issue.' Could Albo sound any more chill about other people potentially losing super savings? From the comfort of knowing his parliamentary pension definitely wasn't impacted by the cyber attacks. You almost feel like he should have been munching down on a bag of chips while saying it, he sounds so disinterested in the concerns account holders might have. It was the same when China parked one of its warships off the east coast of Australia not all that long ago. At least on that occasion Albo said that he'd prefer the ship wasn't there, before becoming an apologist for China by noting that they hadn't broken any laws: 'I would prefer that it wasn't there. But we live in circumstances where, just as Australia has vessels in the South China Sea and vessels in the Taiwan Strait and a range of areas, this vessel is there', the PM said, moving from the salt and vinegar bag to the chicken flavoured ones. A Chinese warship off the coast of Australia in February. The Communist superpower sent a small flotilla of vessels past Australia - and followed it up with a spy ship in March It's not that Albo is wrong on either issue. If he was echoing briefing notes telling him about the rules of international law, Australian shipping routes through the South China Sea, and the frequency of cyber attacks on Australian citizens then he did his job and parroted the talking points perfectly. However, if you expect a leader to show a little more interest in the events going on around them, affecting the very voters they are trying to woo, you might hope for a little more. City Beach has been taken to court for allegedly selling 'incredibly dangerous' children's toys containing non-compliant button batteries. Between June 2022 and October 2024, the surf retailer has been accused of selling 70 product lines which did not comply with Australia's button battery standards. Fewstone Pty Ltd, trading as City Beach, also supplied 57,358 individual non-compliant button battery products, alleges the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The toys allegedly include novelty products such as toys, digital notepads, keyrings, lights and Crocs Jibbitz accessories. 'We are taking this action because, we allege, City Beach [allegedly] exposed consumers to the risks associated with button batteries and failed to inform them of these risks,' ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said. 'Button batteries are incredibly dangerous for young children, and tragically in some cases have led to serious injuries or death when swallowed, inserted or ingested.' Lowe said the ACCC were concerned young children were likely to be the recipients of the non-compliant items as many were 'brightly coloured or had light-up features'. The watchdog said products were required to meet safety standards to ensure children would be unable to access 'dangerous' battery compartments. Light-up Jibbitz accessories for Crocs shoes sold by City Beach allegedly failed to comply with safety standards (pictured) City Beach has been accused of supplying 'incredibly dangerous' children's toys containing non-compliant button batteries (pictured) City Beach had previously been warned in 2022 and 2023 by NSW and Queensland authorities for failing to comply by these life-saving standards. In order for products to comply, companies must test a representative sample of items containing button batteries. Safety warnings must also be provided with products, including advice on seeking medical attention. This is the first time the ACCC has bought a case before the Federal Court for an alleged breach of the button battery standards. The surf and skate shop is conducting a voluntary recall and customers can return recalled products for a full refund. Donald Trump added to his firings at the National Security Council by letting go of the director of the National Security Agency Thursday. Trump axed General Timothy Hough, director of the NSA and US Cyber Command, on Thursday along with his deputy, Wendy Noble. They will be replaced by US Cyber Command deputy William Hartmann and NSA executive director Sheila Thomas. Trump's firings come after a mysterious meeting with Laura Loomer, a far right conspiracy theorist and MAGA influencer, who celebrated the national security bloodbath on social media as the news broke. 'NSA Director Tim Haugh and his deputy Wendy Noble have been disloyal to President Trump. That is why they have been fired,' she wrote. She alleged that Haugh had been 'hand picked' by General Mark Milley, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff who turned on Trump, calling him 'fascist to the core.' 'Why would we want Milleys hand picked choice for NSA DIRECTOR? We do not,' she added, saying that this is why Haugh 'was referred for firing.' Loomer was baffled that Trump's vetting team allowed someone so allegedly allied with Biden to serve. Donald Trump added to his firings at the National Security Council by letting go of the director of the National Security Agency Thursday Trump's firings come after a mysterious meeting with Laura Loomer , a far right conspiracy theorist and MAGA influencer, who celebrated the national security bloodbath on social media as the news broke 'Given the fact that the NSA is arguably the most powerful intel agency in the world, we cannot allow for a Biden nominee to hold that position,' Loomer said. She then called Noble Haugh's 'Obama-loving protege' and a follower of anti-Trump former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper. Loomer also accused Noble of having allegedly 'spent her time at the NSA promoting DEI.' 'Their firings are a blessing for the American people. Thank you President Trump for being receptive to the vetting materials provided to you and thank you for firing these Biden holdovers. Vetting matters!' The New York Times reported Thursday morning that Loomer visited the Oval Office on Wednesday and pressed for National Security Council (NSC) firings. CNN said that the firings were directly the result of Trump's meeting with Loomer, who Trump's top Congressional ally, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, had tried to get banished from MAGA months ago. Greene, the Georgia Republican who also has a history of making controversial statements and pushing conspiracy theories, has been the most prominent MAGA member to publicly attempt to push Loomer out. Loomer, however, has maintained a position in Trump's orbit. She also attacked CNN star anchor and senior White House correspondent Kaitlan Collins for wondering why Loomer was allowed in and who gave her clearance. Trump axed General Timothy Hough (pictured), director of the NSA and US Cyber Command, on Thursday along with his deputy, Wendy Noble 'President Trump did, Kaitlan. You are incredibly disrespectful to me. You lie about me and my intelligence,' she wrote. 'It was President Trump who invited me to the White House to meet with him. Stop making it seem like I snuck into the White House. I was personally invited by President Trump.' On Air Force One Thursday, Trump denied Loomer had anything to do with the firings but did praise her and said he will sometimes consider her opinion. 'Laura Loomer is a great patriot. She's a very strong person,' Trump said. 'She's been in the party a long time, she's done a good job,' he later added. Instead of being behind the firings, the president said that Loomer met with him Wednesday and gave him recommendations on people to hire. 'And sometimes I listen to those recommendations, like I do with everybody, I listen to everybody, and then I make a decision. But I saw her yesterday. She was at the ceremony. And she'll always have something to say, usually very constructive,' Trump said. 'She recommended certain people for jobs.' Loomer came to the White House armed with research that purportedly showed some NSC staffers were not loyal enough to the president's agenda. 'Out of respect for President Trump and the privacy of the Oval Office, Im going to decline on divulging any details about my Oval Office meeting with President Trump,' Loomer told DailyMail.com Thursday. Laura Loomer (left) poses for a photo with President Donald Trump (right) at Mar-a-Lago. Loomer was invited to the Oval Office for a meeting with Trump on Wednesday, despite some in the MAGA movement trying to push her out 'It was an honor to meet with President Trump and present him with my research findings, I will continue working hard to support his agenda, and I will continue reiterating the importance of strong vetting, for the sake of protecting the President and our national security,' she added. Waltz sat in on the meeting and defended members of his team, The Times said. The axed officials reportedly include Brian Walsh, a director for intelligence who previously worked for now Secretary of State Marco Rubio; Thomas Boodry, Waltz's former legislative director in Congress who was a senior director for legislative affairs and David Feith, who oversaw technology and national security. Feith had served in the State Department during Trump's first term. 'NSC doesn't comment on personnel matters,' was the official line from NSC spokesperson Brian Hughes. Feth had served in the State Department during Trump's first term. The NSA is one of the United States' premier intelligence agencies and uses top-tier, specialized technology and systems to collect and analyze intelligence. The NSC is used by the president to advise him on national security, military, and foreign policy matters. Cyber Command carries out both offensive and defensive operations and monitors the networks of the Department of Defense. Laura Loomer, a far right conspiracy theorist and MAGA influencer, celebrated the national security bloodbath she was accused of influencing on social media as the news broke National Security Advisor Michael Waltz has been publicly supported by President Donald Trump in the aftermath of 'Signal-gate,' in which he accidentally added The Atlantic's editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg to a Signal chat about attacking the Houthis in Yemen Trump, since taking office on January 20, has fired multiple top officials at U.S. agencies and installed loyalists. Elon Musk, who is leading the Trump administration's effort to cut and streamline the federal government's workforce, visited the National Security Agency last month to meet Haugh. The meeting suggested the nation's spy services won't escape the billionaire's scrutiny as he looks to slash spending and personnel across the federal government. Current and former officials told the Washington Post they did not know the reason for Haughs dismissal or Nobles reassignment. DailyMail.com has reached out to the Pentagon and the White House for comment. Earlier Thursday, DailyMail.com confirmed an Axios report about the sudden terminations elsewhere at the separate National Security Council, which works underneath under-fire advisor Waltz. The dismissals come after Waltz accidentally added The Atlantic magazine's editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg to a Signal chat where top administration officials were discussing an attack on the Houthis in Yemen. Trump has publicly supported Waltz, a former Florida congressman, in the aftermath of 'Signalgate' despite some White House insiders labeling him a 'f***ing idiot.' A Liberal candidate campaigning on the cost of living and housing crises in a must-win swing seat owned a luxury apartment in one of Japan's best ski resorts which was marketed at Australian citizens seeking to take advantage of negative gearing. Grange Chung, the Liberal candidate for the Sydney inner-city electorate of Reid, regularly shares earnest videos about how the Labor government is responsible for 'the worst decline in (the) standard of living since 1959'. The ex-naval commander and commercial airline pilot has made the cost of living crisis the keystone of his pitch to voters, claiming a Coalition government will tackle it by slashing wasteful government spending. 'I now own the home I bought here in the 90s as a junior officer,' Mr Chung said in a press release announcing his candidacy. 'It saddens me that young people dont have the same opportunities to enter the housing market, which I had, when I was young.' What the Sydney-born electrical engineering graduate doesn't mention is his 2016 purchase of an apartment in the luxury OneNozawa Residence building in Japan. The property, which features just six apartments now costing around $2million each, sits over 700 metres above Nozawa Onsen village, the world-famous ski resort which hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. Mr Chung and his wife Yoon were pictured clinking champagne glasses after they splashed out on an 'genuinely amazing' apartment in 2016, according to The Real Estate Conversation. Liberal candidate Grange Chung has made the cost of living crisis the keystone of his pitch to voters, claiming a Coalition government will tackle it by slashing wasteful government spending What the Sydney-born electrical engineering graduate doesn't mention is his 2016 purchase of an apartment in the luxury OneNozawa Residence building in Japan (pictured) 'Each apartment is pure elegance; they are the highest residential ski apartments in Japan; they match their location with the worlds best quality windows and insulation,' Mr Chung gushed at a 'signing ceremony'. Another puff piece described how the apartments have been fitted with '12 tonnes of the worlds best triple-glazed German windows (and) specially designed with 50mm-thick glass packets and argon gas filled inserts, to manage the altitude and climatic conditions'. The reinforced glass was said to reduce energy costs by up to 35 per cent. But that was not the only thing to attract foreign investors. 'Australian tax residents have a significant opportunity to utilise negative gearing when investing in projects like OneNozawa Residence which lowers the amount of Australian tax they pay,' Steve Douglas, CEO of Singapore-based SMATS Group said. 'They can even claim part of the cost of visiting their property for inspections every year.' Negative gearing is where investor landlords can claim a rental loss against their taxable income. Even if they don't make a loss, they can claim expenses from interest payments to council rates and property maintenance so they can reduce their total taxable income. 'Each apartment is pure elegance; they are the highest residential ski apartments in Japan; they match their location with the worlds best quality windows and insulation,' Mr Chung gushed at a 'signing ceremony' (Mr Chung is pictured at a press conference with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton) The apartments had been fitted with '12 tonnes of the worlds best triple-glazed German windows (and) specially designed with 50mm-thick glass packets and argon gas filled inserts, to manage the altitude and climatic conditions' The ex-naval commander and commercial airline pilot regularly shares earnest videos about how the Labor government is responsible for 'the worst decline in (the) standard of living since 1959' It is estimated to cost the annual Federal Budget about $18.6billion - and is a massively divisive political issue. The Albanese Government ruled out changes to negative gearing last year, despite the backlash to the Prime Minister's purchase of a $4.3million cliffside mansion. The Coalition supports it, with Peter Dutton previously saying any changes to the tax concessions would 'further smash the housing market'. The property's website details how rental income from the apartments 'pass to owners directly'. 'OneNozawa owners will be able to claim tax offsets associated with interest costs and any declared income,' the website states. 'This particularly benefits Australian tax residents.' However, Mr Chung did not take advantage of negative gearing when he purchased the property. 'I am very proud that my wife's and my hard work and many years of saving had allowed us to make this purchase,' Mr Chung told this publication. 'It had never been negatively geared.' It is believed that Mr Chung was living in Singapore at the time he bought the apartment in his former career as Captain for Singapore Airlines flying the Boeing B787 Dreamliner. He held roles in Singapore with the Australian Department of Defence as recently as November 2022. His most recent job was as a military assistant with Defence Australia before he stepped down in September last year to dedicate himself full-time as the Liberal candidate for Reid, according to his LinkedIn. A recent $2,000-a-head fundraiser at a Chinese restaurant in the Crown Sydney reportedly raised close to $100,000 for Mr Grange. A bottle signed by former Prime Minister John Howard went for $15,000 in the auction, reported The Daily Telegraph. In February, Liberal Senator Dave Sharma paid tribute to Mr Chung in the Senate, claiming he 'understands the pressures facing every day Australians'. Labor's Sally Sitou won the seat of Reid in 2022by a margin of just 5.2 per cent. It was previously held by the Liberal Party with a margin of 3.2 per cent. Melbourne crime boss Tony Mokbel wasted no time in making amends for the years of wasted life he has spent behind bars. Daily Mail Australia can reveal Mokbel's first act after being released from jail after 18 years behind bars was to visit the grave of his mother. Lora Mokbel, 83, was farewelled at a service at Our Lady Of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church in Thornbury in 2013, where mourners mixed with some of Melbourne's criminal elite. Mokbel had been unable to attend the funeral, nor had his brother Milad, who was also serving time for drug offences. On Friday, Mokbel made his way straight to Fawkner Memorial Park with an entourage of supporters where he finally got to pay his respect to his mother. Mokbel, travelling in a matte black luxury Mercedes sedan, had been pursued by media to his sister's home in Viewbank, north of Melbourne. But despite media outlets covering his every move, including flying a chopper overhead, he quickly gave them the slip. Except for Daily Mail Australia who managed to catch him at the cemetery paying his touching last respect at last, albeit 12 years later. The touching moment came after the 59-year old could not contain his joy when he walked down the steps of the Victorian Supreme Court of Appeal just after 1.30pm. Underbelly gangland survivor Tony Mokbel visited his mum's grave upon release from jail on Friday On Friday, Mokbel made his way to Fawkner Memorial Park with an entourage of supporters where he finally got to pay his respect to his mother Melbourne crime boss Tony Mokbel has walked free with a beaming smile and cheers from supporters after being jailed for 18 years Mokbel said nothing as he walked through a police cordon shielding him from a horde of journalists and other onlookers. As Mokbel made his way back to his new home in suburban Melbourne, neighbours hid in fear about what chaos the notorious criminal might unleash upon their quiet neighbourhood. 'I think it's very bad for our community,' neighbour Donna told Daily Mail Australia earlier. 'Firstly, I worry that he has enemies, which has been shown in jail that he does have enemies because he nearly died and that these enemies or other crime figures are gonna come and they, you know, kill him.' Mokbel had been spirited away in a matte black Mercedes where he was taken to his new home with his sister Gawy Saad and her family in Viewbank, north of Melbourne. Mokbel's release brought the city to a halt as people congregated en masse outside the court on Lonsdale Street. He had been officially set free just after 10.30am, with the court taking hours to process him. The jailbird gangster's release attracted the largest media scrum outside a Melbourne court since George Pell appeared at court for a preliminary hearing in 2017. Surrounded by an entourage, Mokbel visited the most important woman in his life, who died while he was behind bars Mokbel had been pursued by media to his sister's home north of Melbourne, but quickly made the slip as media outlets covered his every move, including flying a chopper overhead Mokbel's supporters were seen going inside his sister's home, but there was no sign of the underworld kingpin himself Mokbel was bombarded with questions from reporters as he made the 5m walk from the courthouse to his vehicle, including being asked: 'Do you have any plans to buy another yacht, Tony?' Mokbel notoriously bought a yacht named 'Edwena' and hired a Greek crew to spirit him away from Australia while on bail when he fled justice in 2006. He was released on Friday after the Court of Appeal agreed he had been set up by disgraced former lawyer and police informer Nicola Gobbo. Mokbel previously said the first two things he will do upon his release will be seeing his children and visiting his mother's grave, the Herald Sun reported. The decision to release Mokbel stirred audible gasps from his supporters, who crammed into the courthouse alongside a full-blown media circus. Mokbel had been treated like a celebrity from within the prison dock, shaking hands and chatting with his supporters - two of which left court in an orange Lamborghini on Tuesday. He had arrived in court on Friday once again in an armoured vehicle and escorted inside by Security and Emergency Services Group guards. While free on bail, Mokbel will be forced to wear a GPS ankle bracelet that will monitor his every movement. He will need to report to the local police station every day and adhere to a strict curfew between 11pm and 6am. The decision to release Mokbel stirred audible gasps from his supporters, who crammed into the courthouse alongside a full-blown media circus Mokbel previously said the first two things he will do upon his release will be seeing his children and visiting his mother's grave The court heard Mokbel had 'strong family support' and a mystery long-term de facto partner He was a spirited away in a Mercedes where he is expected to be taken to his new home with his sister in Viewbank, north of Melbourne Earlier, Mokbel arrived in an armoured vehicle at the Court of Appeal The court heard Mokbel had 'strong family support' and a mystery long-term de facto partner. In setting Mokbel free on bail, Justices Karin Emerton, Robert Osborn and Jane Dixon agreed he stood a solid chance of winning his appeal against three convictions for drug trafficking, which is expected to be heard later this year. If he wins, it will likely result in his complete release. His current sentence expires in 2037, but he is eligible for parole in June 2031. Prosecutors had argued Mokbel could not be trusted to comply with his bail conditions given his infamous escape to Greece just before Christmas 2006. Mokbel's barrister Julie Condon, KC, told the court her client had 'exceptional circumstances' for being released on bail, describing his case as 'very rare'. His bail had hinged on nine factors, including his poor health, the strength of his appeal case and his circumstances in custody. Mokbel had been languishing in jail since 2007 when he was caught in Greece after going on the run from Melbourne while on bail. Mokbel's supporters leave the Supreme Court on Tuesday following his bail application Mokbel will reside with his sister Gawy Saad in Viewbank until his appeal is heard Nicola Gobbo, aka Lawyer X (left), with Tony Mokbel before he fled overseas His sister-in-law Renate Mokbel had put up a $1million surety to secure his release - a decision that saw her later jailed when she refused to cough-up the cash. Known more widely as 'Lawyer X', Gobbo had been Mokbel's lawyer while informing against him in the early 2000s when he was a kingpin of Melbourne's deadly Underbelly War. It was a 12-year war that began in January 1998 and ended in August 2010 with 36 underworld figures dead. Mokbel had been facing the drug charges he is appealing now when he was tipped off by Ms Gobbo that he was about to be charged over the murder of Michael Marshall. Marshall had been shot in the head outside the South Yarra home he shared with his wife and five-year-old son in 2003. Police had believed the now-dead crime boss Carl Williams was contracted by Mokbel to kill Marshall, who he mistakenly believed had murdered his great friend, another gangland figure Willy Thompson. The charges were ultimately withdrawn in 2009. Mokbel had been jailed in 2012 over Victoria Police drug operations code-named Quills, Magnum, Plutonium and Orbital. Mokbel's barrister Julie Condon, KC, (left) secured his release on bail In 2023, that sentence was slashed from 30 years' jail with a minimum term of 22 years to a total of 26 years with a non-parole period of 20 years. It had been Gobbo's meddling in his affairs on the Plutonium job that saw that conviction dumped. However, Mokbel's defence argued Gobbo's fingerprints had been all over his decision to plead guilty to the remaining three drug busts. Ms Condon said it was 'unthinkable' Mokbel would not have fought his drug charges had he known his lawyer was a police informant. While not directly acting for him on Quills, Magnum and Orbital, the court heard Gobbo had convinced her own clients - cohorts of Mokbel - to 'roll' on him. She had done so while reporting back to her Victoria Police handlers. It was this decision that provoked the ire of Justice Osborn during the prosecution's closing arguments to keep Mokbel caged. Justice Osborn suggested Mokbel would be eligible for parole today should he win his appeal on just one of the three outstanding convictions. Mokbel was captured in Greece wearing a shabby, ill-fitting wig Mokbel's fake identification while on the run The court heard while Magnum was the more solid case, the others were on unsteady ground because of Gobbo's meddling. Magnum, which earnt Mokbel 20 years, had seen him convicted for trafficking more than 41kg of methylamphetamine while he was already on the run. Orbital - a six year stint - saw him attempt to buy drugs off undercover cops while Quills (13 years) saw him busted for peddling MDMA. As it stands, Mokbel has already served most of the jail time on Quills and Magnum, with the remainder attributed largely to Orbital. The bail decision came on the back of a bombshell ruling in December by New South Wales judge Elizabeth Fullerton who found Victoria Polices use of Ms Gobbo was part of a 'joint criminal enterprise'. Justice Osborn put it to the prosecution if Mokbel's guilty plea was improperly obtained due to the prosecution and Victoria Police's failure to disclose to him the extent of Ms Gobbo's meddling, it could not be accepted. He further suggested Mokbel would not have received the 20-year sentence on Magnum if Orbital and Quills were struck out. 'He's not a serious drug offender if it's only Magnum. And he's not an incorrigible offender,' Justice Osborn said. Tony Mokbel was almost killed in a prison stabbing in 2019 Tonyh Mokbel as he appeared outside court in 2006 before he fled the country Mokbel's sister-in'law Renate Mokbel did jail time after he fled and left her having to pay a $1million surety 'At that point, with time served of 14 years, he's squarely in ... the range of the non-parole period.' Gobbo had first met Mokbel in the Melbourne Magistrates' Court in 1998 when she was acting as a junior for barrister Alex Lewenberg. Mokbel claimed she had been acting on behalf of his brother. In 2002, Mokbel said Gobbo visited him in jail while he was on remand for drug charges. Mokbel claimed Gobbo gave him the hard sell, assuring him she would work hard for him. A Royal Commission into the Management of Police Informants later found Gobbo had been hellbent on taking down Mokbel's criminal empire and provided police with a 'volume of information'. President Donald Trump has offered his support to French far-right leader Marine Le Pen demanding she be set 'free' while branding her ban from elective office a 'witch hunt'. Le Pen, 56, on Monday was convicted of creating fake jobs at the EU parliament and taking advantage of expenses to employ assistants who were actually working for her party in France. The matriarch of the hard-right National Rally (RN) party was barred from running for office for five years and given a four-year prison sentence, although she will not go to jail as half of it was suspended and the rest will be served with an electronic tag. In a post to his Truth Social account, Trump wrote: 'In The Witch Hunt against Marine Le Pen is another example of European Leftists using Lawfare to silence Free Speech, and censor their Political Opponent, this time going so far as to put that Opponent in prison.' He went on to add that while he doesn't know Le Pen personally he does 'appreciate how hard she worked for so many years'. The post continued: 'She suffered losses, but kept on going, and now, just before what would be a Big Victory, they get her on a minor charge that she probably knew nothing about Sounds like a 'bookkeeping' error to me. 'It is all so bad for France, and the Great French People, no matter what side they are on. FREE MARINE LE PEN!' Trump's DOGE adviser Elon Musk echoed the American president's views as he reposted the message on X (formerly Twitter) writing 'Free Le Pen!'. President Donald Trump had demanded that France 'free' presidential candidate Marine Le Pen Marine Le Pen, president of the far-right National Rally (RN) parliamentary group, leaves the National Rally headquarters after the verdict on Monday Monday's verdict was seen as a hammer blow to Le Pen's long-held hopes of ascending to the presidency in 2027. She was also ordered to pay a $100,000 fine and her party was docked $2 million - half of which must be paid definitively, while the other half would be demanded in the event of a repeat offence. Le Pen could appeal her sentence. If her bid fails, she will get a four-year prison sentence - two of which were suspended and two to be served under house arrest. Twenty-four people, including Le Pen, were convicted - all of them RN party officials or assistants. Only one defendant was acquitted of any wrongdoing. Le Pen said she will appeal. She argued the court should not have made her ineligible to run for office until all her chances at appeal had been exhausted, and that by doing so it was clear the court was aiming 'specifically to prevent' her from being elected president. 'If that's not a political decision, I don't know what is,' Le Pen said in the TF1 interview. She said the ruling marked a 'fateful day for our democracy' but vowed to keep pursuing what she called the now 'admittedly narrow' path to the presidency. 'There are millions of French people who believe in me, millions of French people who trust me,' she added. 'For 30 years I've been fighting for you, and for 30 years I've been fighting against injustice, so I'm going to continue fighting.' She is allowed to keep her seat in the French Parliament. Earlier this week, Trump compared himself to convicted French presidential candidate, calling her ban from elective office a 'very big deal.' 'That's a big deal. That's a very big deal,' Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. He expressed sympathy for Le Pen and said her situation 'sounds very much like this country.' 'That's a big deal. That's a very big deal,' Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. He expressed sympathy for Le Pen and said her situation 'sounds very much like this country.' 'I know all about it, and a lot of people thought she wasn't going to be convicted of anything and I don't know that it means conviction but she was banned for running for five years and she's the leading candidate. That sounds like this country. That sounds very much like this country,' he added. Marine Le Pen in French Parliament on Tuesday Trump has long portrayed himself the victim of a government 'witch hunt' and politically motivated prosecutions. The American president has been subject to many lawsuits from state and federal governments: The state of New York convicted him in 2024 of falsifying business records related to hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels but his sentencing was indefinitely postponed following his second election to the presidency Before the November 2024, a federal judge dismissed the federal charges relating to Trump's handling of classified documents After Trump's election, the special counsel decided to abandon the federal charges related to the 2020 election, citing the Justice Department policy of not prosecuting sitting presidents A case against in Georgia is on pause while the courts decide whether a state-level prosecutor can prosecute a sitting president He denied wrongdoing in all the cases. Other officials in the Trump administration have echoed the president's stance on Le Pen. US Vice President JD Vance said yesterday that Le Pen was convicted of a very minor offense and barring her from running for office was 'not democracy.' 'They're trying to throw her in prison and throw her off the ballot,' Vance said in an interview with the Newsmax television channel. 'Look, that's not democracy.' He said Le Pen had been 'leading in some polls' for France's 2027 presidential election and had been convicted of an 'incredibly minor charge that implicates, by the way, her staff, not even Marine Le Pen herself.' Trump has long portrayed himself the victim of a government 'witch hunt' and politically motivated prosecutions Musk also slammed the French court's decision, saying: 'When the radical left can't win via democratic vote, they abuse the legal system to jail their opponents. This is their standard playbook throughout the world.' And State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the department was 'aware' of Le Pen's sentencing. 'Exclusion of people from the political process is particularly concerning given the aggressive and corrupt lawfare waged against President [Donald] Trump here in the United States,' Bruce said. But she declined to comment specifically on Le Pen's case. In the face of the widespread criticism of the verdict, one of France's top two public prosecutors denied there was a political element to Monday's decision. 'Justice is not political, this is not a political decision but a legal one, delivered by three independent, impartial judges,' Remy Heitz told RTL radio station. It wasn't just Trump who was critical of the verdict. Other conservative leaders in Europe blasted it. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the ruling against Le Pen disenfranchised millions of voters in France and the EU. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also blasted the verdict against Le Pen 'I don't know the merits of the accusations against Marine Le Pen, or the reasons for such a strong decision,' Meloni, leader of the Brothers of Italy party, told Il Messaggero. 'But I think that no one who cares about democracy can rejoice at a sentence that targets the leader of a major party and deprives millions of citizens of representation.' Russia also waded in. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov telling reporters: 'More and more European capitals are going down the path of trampling over democratic norms. 'Of course, we do not want to interfere in France's internal affairs, we have never done so. 'But in general, our observations of European capitals show that they are not at all reluctant to go beyond democracy during the political process.' Cruise ship passengers off the coast of Australia were left shocked when a fellow cruisegoer had to be urgently airlifted to the hospital. Queensland Ambulance said the man, in his 70s, was rushed to Bundaberg Hospital on the Queensland coast after a medical episode around 1pm on Wednesday. The incident is understood to have occurred off the Queensland coast on the final day of the Carnival Cruise Lines ship Luminosa's journey into the Port of Brisbane. Carnival has advised that the guest had an illness requiring urgent medical attention but offered no further statement on the incident. 'What a way to end a holiday,' one passenger on board said of the drama. 'On my last cruise I also left via ambulance so I know how distressing it can be. 'Hope they are ok.' The hospital was unable to provide an update on the man's condition. Queensland Ambulance airlifted a man, in his 70s, from the Carnival Cruise Lines ship Luminosa (pictured) and he was taken to Bundaberg Hospital for a medical condition The cruise ship which has been in service since 2009 features a steakhouse, rum bar, piano bar, comedy club and spa. It had originally sailed in Europe but was transferred to Australia in 2022 where it is based out of Brisbane. South Korea's ousted president Yoon Suk Yeol has apologised after the country's highest court upheld his impeachment over a disastrous bid to bring in martial law which plunged the nation into political turmoil. 'I am truly sorry and heartbroken that I was unable to meet your expectations,' he said in a short statement released after the court announced its unanimous verdict. Yoon, 64, was suspended by lawmakers over his December 3 attempt to subvert civilian rule, which saw armed soldiers deployed to parliament. He was also arrested on insurrection charges as part of a separate criminal case, a charge that can carry the death penalty or life imprisonment. The Constitutional Court's decision means Yoon has now been immediately removed from office, ending months of political uncertainty and legal wrangling. Millions of Koreans watched the court hand down its verdict live on television, with scenes of jubilation on the streets of Seoul and elsewhere as the decision was announced. 'Given the serious negative impact and far-reaching consequences of the respondent's constitutional violations... (We) dismiss respondent President Yoon Suk Yeol,' acting court President Moon Hyung-bae said while delivering the ruling. Yoon's removal, which is effective immediately, triggers fresh presidential elections, which must be held within 60 days. Authorities will announce a date in the coming days. The judges have been given additional security protection by police. Outside the court, AFP reporters heard Yoon supporters shouting death threats. Yoon, 64, was suspended by lawmakers over his December 3 attempt to subvert civilian rule (pictured on December 3) Millions of Koreans watched the court hand down its verdict live on television, with scenes of jubilation on the streets of Seoul and elsewhere as the decision was announced Moon Hyung-bae (C), acting chief justice of South Korea's Constitutional Court, speaks during the final ruling of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment Yoon's actions 'violate the core principles of the rule of law and democratic governance,' the judges said in their ruling. Sending armed soldiers to parliament in a bid to prevent lawmakers from voting down his decree 'violated the political neutrality of the armed forces.' He deployed troops for 'political purposes', the judges said. 'In the end, the respondent's unconstitutional and illegal acts are a betrayal of the people's trust and constitute a serious violation of the law that cannot be tolerated,' the judges ruled. Opposition party lawmakers clapped their hands as the verdict was announced, calling it 'historic', while lawmakers from Yoon's party filed out of the courtroom. Yoon is the second South Korean leader to be impeached by the court after Park Geun-hye in 2017. After weeks of tense hearings, judges spent more than a month deliberating the case, while public unrest swelled. Police raised the alert to the highest possible level Friday. Officers encircled the courthouse with a ring of vehicles and stationed special operations teams in the vicinity. A far-right protester reacts after hearing that President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment was accepted, near his residence in Seoul Anti-Yoon protesters gathered outdoors to watch a live broadcast of the verdict, cheering at many of the lines and holding hands. When Yoon's removal was announced, they erupted into wild cheers, with some bursting into tears. 'When the dismissal was finally declared, the cheers were so loud it felt like the rally was being swept away,' Kim Min-ji, a 25-year-old anti-Yoon protester, told AFP. 'We cried tears and shouted that we, the citizens, had won!' Yoon, a conservative, defended his attempt to subvert civilian rule as necessary to root out 'anti-state forces'. He claimed his martial law decree was a desperate attempt to call on public support for his fight against his liberal rivals, who used their parliamentary majority to obstruct his agenda and impeach top officials. Soldiers advance to the main building of the National Assembly after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in Seoul, South Korea, December 3, 2024 People, gathered in front of the National Assembly Building, protest following the declaration of martial law in Seoul, South Korea on December 4 But many observers say the stunt was political suicide, as the liberal opposition-controlled parliament quickly struck down the decree before impeaching him and sending his case to the Constitutional Court. Nevertheless, he still commands the backing of hardcore supporters, and outside his residence, his backers shouted and swore, with some bursting into tears as the verdict was announced. This year, at least two staunch Yoon supporters have died after self-immolating in protest of the controversial leader's impeachment. A police official told AFP that one person had been arrested in the vicinity of the court, with others trying to destroy police buses with batons. Embassies - including the American, French, Russian and Chinese - have warned citizens to avoid mass gatherings in connection with Friday's verdict. People were seen crying tears of joy at an anti-Yoon gathering in Seoul as the verdict came through Anti-Yoon protesters react after the announcement of the Constitutional Court's verdict on the impeachment of the South Korea president The decision shows 'first and foremost the resilience of South Korean democracy,' Byunghwan Son, professor at George Mason University, told AFP. 'The very fact that the system did not collapse suggests that the Korean democracy can survive even the worst challenge against it - a coup attempt.' The Korean won jumped sharply against the US dollar immediately after the court announced Yoon's dismissal, with Seoul's benchmark KOSPI up 8.62 points, or 0.35 percent. South Korea has spent the four months since the martial law declaration without an effective head of state, as the opposition impeached Yoon's stand-in - only for him to be later reinstated by a court ruling. The leadership vacuum came during a series of crises and headwinds, including an aviation disaster and the deadliest wildfires in the country's history. This week, South Korea was slammed with 25 percent tariffs on exports to key ally the United States after President Donald Trump unveiled global, so-called reciprocal levies. Since December, South Korea has been 'partially paralysed - it has been without a legitimate president and has been challenged by natural disasters and the political disaster called Trump,' Vladimir Tikhonov, Korean Studies professor at the University of Oslo, told AFP. Yoon also faces a separate criminal trial on charges of insurrection over the martial law bid. Acting president Han Duck-soo will remain at the helm until the new elections are held. Three men who were found guilty of the gang rape of three teenage women during a bucks party weekend have told a court they intend to appeal their sentences. Maurice Hawell, 30, his brother Marius, 23, and friend Andrew David, 30, were convicted of forming a joint criminal enterprise in attacking the women at a Newcastle Airbnb over two nights in February, 2022. All three men, who have maintained their innocence, have recently filed notices of their intention to appeal their sentences with the New South Wales Supreme Court. On Thursday, acting registrar of the Supreme Court Peter Clayton set the matter down to be heard later this month. Mr Clayton said the 'large' matter would be dealt with over 'multiple days', according to NCA Newswire. The Sydney-based trio were celebrating the marriage of groom-to-be Maurice when they took part in the assaults described as 'degrading and heinous' by District Court Judge Gina O'Rourke. They were found guilty on multiple counts of aggravated sexual assault in company, aggravated sexual touching in company and attempting to commit sexual assault in company by a jury in July last year. The court heard two 18-year-old women were sexually assaulted by multiple men on the first evening after they met Maurice at the Cambridge Hotel. Maurice Hawell (right) married his cousin Loubna Yousif (left) only weeks after the attacks for which he was sentenced to 14 years behind bars Marius Hawell (left) was sentenced to nine years in jail with a non-parole period of five years and five months Groomsman Andrew David (pictured) was handed a 13-year jail sentence for his role in the sexual assaults On the second evening, a 19-year-old woman was led into the bedroom of the Airbnb by two men who proceeded to rape her while a third man entered to watch, the court heard. Both Marius and David attended the wedding of Maurice and his cousin, Loubna Yousif, which took place weeks after the attacks. Maurice, a former solicitor, was convicted of 10 charges and sentenced to 14 years in jail with an eight year and six month non-parole period. His younger brother, Maurius, was convicted of seven offences and sentenced to nine years in jail with a non-parole period of five years and five months. David was convicted of nine charges and sentenced to 13 years in jail with a seven year and nine month non-parole period. In delivering their sentences in July, Ms O'Rourke described the offending as 'cold, callous, degrading and criminal' and said the men had acted pursuant to a 'pack mentality'. 'They are three highly educated, intelligent, successful, professional young men who come from loving Christian families, who treat their own sisters, mothers and female partners with respect and love,' Judge O'Rourke told the court. 'And yet on this weekend, they were capable in a pack mentality of treating three young women in this cold, callous, degrading and criminal way.' Britain will enjoy its warmest day of the year so far today with temperatures soaring as high as 24C (75F) - beating the weather in many European holiday hotspots. Much of the UK will be dry and sunny throughout the day, with the Met Office expecting the weather in central England to be closer to typical conditions in July. The country is expected to be warmer than Marbella and Ibiza in Spain and Mykonos in Greece, which will all be 18C (64F), and even Los Angeles which will be 22C (72F). But it came as firefighters continued to battle wildfires across Britain, with brigades issuing warnings to avoid barbecues and ensure litter is properly disposed of. Ahead of today, the UK's highest temperature recorded so far in 2025 was 21.3C (70.3F) on March 20 in both Northolt, West London, and Chertsey, Surrey. Yesterday got close to breaking the record with 20.7C (69.3F) in Farnham, Surrey although it was a day of contrasts as Kinbrace in the Highlands fell to -5.2C (22.6F). Meanwhile eastern areas of England were cooler due to easterly winds over the North Sea - with the coast of Northumberland at 10C (50F) and Norfolk at 11C (52F). The Met Office said on social media that temperatures yesterday had been 'nearer to what we'd expect in July in some inland and western areas, but conversely a chilly easterly breeze has kept many eastern coastal regions much colder'. Emma Chapman, 21, enjoys the sunny and warm weather at Luss in Loch Lomond yesterday Wall-to-wall sunshine in the Met Office forecast for London with highs of 22C expected today People enjoy the sunshine at St James's Park in London yesterday as temperatures rise A dog on a morning walk along the promenade in Folkestone, Kent, in the sunshine yesterday It comes after England saw its sunniest March on record and its sixth driest March since records began in 1836, according to the Met Office. Last month was also Wales's second sunniest March on record and its fourth driest since 1836. The average temperature for this time of year is around 12C (54F) in England and 10C (50F) in Scotland. Met Office forecaster Dan Stroud said: 'We've got an area of cloud and showery outbreaks of rain moving northwards across south-west England and parts of Wales overnight [into this morning]. 'So that will bring some welcome rain for small parts of the country, but much of the country is looking at another fine and dry spring day [today] with a lot of warm sunshine on offer, although still holding on to those cool temperatures near the east coast. 'But one thing we are expecting [today] is for temperatures to creep up into 23C or maybe the odd isolated 24C, so potentially the warmest day of the year so far.' It comes as firefighters have been tackling major blazes in Scotland and Dorset. Mr Stroud said wildfires have hit the country after a dry period in March. In Scotland, crews have been fighting a large grass fire at Gartur Moss in Port of Menteith, Stirling. The alarm was raised around noon on Wednesday and four fire engines remained at the scene yesterday morning. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said the blaze stretched 0.5km (0.3 miles). It added that a 'very high to extreme' risk of wildfire remains across the country until Monday and urged the public not to light fires outdoors. Crews have already extinguished a wildfire near Bonhill in West Dunbartonshire and another in the Kilpatrick Hills near Milngavie, East Dunbartonshire, earlier this week. Moors Valley Country Park on the Dorset-Hampshire border will remain closed after being hit by multiple wildfires since Monday. Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) said crews were called to the park again on Wednesday after more hotspots were discovered during a reinspection near Ringwood. Several hectares of woodland have been destroyed. No injuries have been reported. Firefighters also responded to two more major wildfires in Dorset. Fire crews were called to a blaze at Canford Heath in Dorset at around 5.30am yesterday A fire broke out at Upton Heath, near Poole, just before 11.45pm on Wednesday A wildfire burns at Midlothian Snowsports Centre at Hillend near Edinburgh on Tuesday Firefighters tackle blazes in the Kilpatrick Hills near Glasgow on Tuesday evening Met Office data showed England had its sixth driest March since records began in 1836 England saw its sunniest March on record last month, according to the Met Office The first broke out at Upton Heath, near Poole, just before 11.45pm on Wednesday, spreading across more than 37 acres. Crews were then called to a blaze at nearby Canford Heath at around 5.30am yesterday, which covered six acres. DWFRS said both fires had been brought under control by 7am, with crews continuing to damp down hotspots. London Fire Brigade urged people in the capital to take precautions against wildfires. Assistant Commissioner Paul McCourt said: 'We would urge Londoners not to have barbecues in open spaces or on balconies, including disposable barbecues, to throw rubbish away, and to dispose of cigarettes carefully to avoid inadvertently starting a fire.' The last time London was hit by wildfires was in the 2022 heatwave, when UK temperatures soared above 40C (104F) for the first time. European Union regulators are preparing to hit Elon Musk's X platform with a huge fine which could surpass $1billion for breaking disinformation laws, insiders have reportedly revealed. The move would likely to ratchet up tensions between the EU and United States, with tech billionaire Musk a close adviser to President Trump. The social media platform could also face forced product changes for failing to abide by the landmark law to combat illicit content and disinformation, sources told the New York Times. The penalties are expected to be announced this summer, the sources said, and will be the first to be issued under the new EU law which aims to force social media companies to police their services. The investigation into X was opened in 2023 and officials issued a preliminary ruling last year stating that the platform had violated the Digital Services Act. The fine could be significant in an effort to deter other tech companies from violating the law. Musk is expected to fight any attempt to regulate his platform, declaring last July that he looked forward to contesting any penalty in 'a very public battle in court.' EU officials have reportedly been debating how harsh a penalty to impose as they fear further antagonising President Trump amid rising trans-Atlantic tensions over trade following his sweeping tariffs announcement this week. The move would likely to ratchet up tensions between the EU and United States, with tech billionaire Musk a close adviser to President Trump EU regulators have insisted that their investigation is progressing independently from trade negotiations after a 20 per cent tariff was imposed on EU goods to the US. Shortly after Trump's inauguration in February, the White House published a memo warning that the EU's DSA and Digital Markets Act were being looked into for allegedly targeting US companies unfairly. Regulators reportedly slowed down their investigation into X after Trump was elected as they sought to assess the potential political fallout of looking into the firm of one of Trump's closest allies, one person said. Amid escalating tensions between the EU and US over trade, authorities decided to push ahead with the probe, the source reportedly added. 'We have always enforced and will continue to enforce our laws fairly and without discrimination toward all companies operating in the EU, in full compliance with global rules,' a spokesman for the European Commission said in a statement, without commenting specifically on X. The platform also faces a second investigation by the EU which has a broader scope, with officials said to be gathering evidence that X's hands-off approach to policing user content has made it a hub of illegal hate speech. It could face further penalties if it is found to be inadequately dealing with hate speech, disinformation and other material that is seen to be undermining democracy in the EU, two sources said. When the EU Commission announced its preliminary findings that X had breached the DSA last year, Musk hit back by threatening legal action. The investigation into X was opened in 2023 and officials issued a preliminary ruling last year stating that the platform had violated the law He wrote on X that the bloc's governing body had offered to make an 'illegal secret deal' with his company so it would not have to pay the fine in exchange for quietly censoring users - a claim the EU rejected. Musk has repeatedly criticised European policies on social media as a form of censorship, and has regularly waded into rows concerning the EU and European politics. Last night, he took to X to condemn a decision by France's top court to bar far-right politician Marine Le Pen from running for office after she was found guilty of embezzling EU funds. 'Free Le Pen!' he wrote in response to a post by Trump which claimed that the decision to charge the National Rally matriarch, who intends to run for President in France, amounted to a 'witch hunt'. Musk, who has also used his platform to attack German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and show his support for a far-right party in Germany, said the move against Le Pen would 'backfire, like the legal attacks against President Trump'. NATO leaders have warned Vladimir Putin that he must meet a deadline for a ceasefire in Ukraine or face the consequences. Canadian foreign minister Melanie Joly said there had to be consequences if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire proposal as she arrived in Brussels on Friday to meet with her NATO counterparts. There must be red lines in terms of a timetable when it comes to a Ukraine ceasefire, Estonian foreign minister Margus Tsahkna echoed. '(Russian president Vladimir Putin) is asking more and he is not asking only more about Ukraine. He's just putting new conditions on the table (...) there must be some kind of red lines on the timetable', he said as he arrived in Brussels. Britain said it was time to step up pressure on Russia to try to force it to negotiate in good faith, while France accused Putin of dragging his feet on the ceasefire deal. 'We continue to bear down the sanctions on Russia, so that they are willing to come to this negotiation actually serious about making the peace that we want to see,' British foreign minister David Lammy said at a NATO meeting. This comes as a senior NATO official revealed that Russia has seen about 900,000 casualties since the war started in February 2022, the German press agency DPA reports. The British Ministry of Defence said in its latest intelligence update that up to 250,000 Russian soldiers have been killed since Putin began his brutal invasion of Ukraine. NATO leaders have warned Vladimir Putin (pictured) that he must meet a deadline for a ceasefire in Ukraine or face the consequences - as they reveal Russia's staggering death toll in the war A resident runs away from a fire following Russia's drone attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine, late Thursday, April 3, 2025 Britain said it was time to step up pressure on Russia to try to force it to negotiate in good faith, while France accused Putin of dragging his feet on the ceasefire deal. British foreign minister David Lammy and French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot are pictured above Lammy and and his French counterpart on Friday said Russia was still striking Ukraine's energy infrastructure and accused him of delaying the peace deal. At the same time, Paris said that the military chiefs from the two countries were visiting Kyiv to discuss a possible deployment of troops to secure any ceasefire. 'Over the past three weeks, Russia has been flip flopping, continuing its strikes on energy infrastructure, continuing its war crimes,' French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot said at a NATO meeting alongside Lammy. 'There will at some point be a need for military capacity or reassurance, whenever peace is reached - and this is the reason why our army chiefs will be in Kyiv today in order to advance this work,' Barrot said. Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of breaking a supposed US-backed deal to stop firing on energy sites, though a formal agreement has not been put in place and what commitments each side has undertaken remain unclear. 'Our judgment is that Putin continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet. He could accept a cease fire now, but he continues to bombard Ukraine, its civilian population, its energy supplies,' Lammy said. 'We see, Vladimir Putin. We know what you're doing.' Both the French and British foreign ministers insisted that now was the time to bolster support for Ukraine, with Lammy saying: 'We are pledged to continue to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position, militarily, economically.' A Ukrainian serviceman fires a field artillery gun towards Russian troops at a frontline position in Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine, on March 31, 2025 Canadian foreign minister Melanie Joly (centre, in a red coat) said a deadline for Russia should be set as she arrived in Brussels on Friday to meet with her NATO counterparts. There must be red lines in terms of a timetable when it comes to a Ukraine ceasefire, Estonian foreign minister Margus Tsahkna (last row, centre) echoed A still image taken from a video released on 31 March 2025 shows Russian soldiers operating a 152 mm self-propelled gun 2S5 'Giatsint-S' before firing toward Ukrainian positions at an undisclosed location in Ukraine This comes as Russia saw 35,140 casualties this February alone, according to the NATO official who spoke to DPA. The British Ministry of Defence said despite suffering the largest troop losses since World War Two with 900,000 casualties since invading Ukraine, 'Putin and the Russian military leadership [is] highly likely to prioritise their military objectives over the lives of Russian soldiers.' The ministry added: 'They are almost certainly prepared to tolerate continuously high casualty rates so long as this does not negatively affect public or elite support for the war, and those losses can be replaced. The MoD also accused the Kremlin of selectively recruiting soldiers from poorer regions of the country. 'Putin and the Russian leadership highly likely place significantly less value on the lives of ethnic minority Russian citizens from impoverished regions, with Russian recruitment efforts consequently focused disproportionately on these areas. 'Slavic Russians from urban centres such as Moscow and St. Petersburg have contributed disproportionately fewer service personnel than their poorer, ethnic minority compatriots.' A daredevil who pulled a crocodile's tail then rested his hands on its back came to regret it after the angry reptile snapped back and sank its jaws into him. Border security guard Simson Paulus, 41, who was by the Etaka waterhole in Epalela, Namibia, ignored repeated warnings to leave the 10-foot Nile crocodile alone but seemed amused by his bravado. But within seconds, the angry crocodile whipped its head round and grabbed the hapless goader in its powerful jaws by the left arm. Fortunately the croc released terrified Paulus who was left with blood pouring from numerous tooth wounds to his mangled forearm. Horrifying footage posted to Facebook shows the fearless security guard petting the animal. Although the crocodile seems un-phased at first, it suddenly spins around to launch its attack and latch onto the man's arm. While the video doesn't show Paulus getting bitten, the crocodile splashes around in the water as onlookers scream and run to safety. The security guard had to walk Outapi Hospital where he had to get dozens of stitches. He remains in a stable condition. A man who pulled a crocodile's tail at the Etaka waterhole in Epalela, Namibia was left with a mangled arm after the beast gnawed its teeth into him The attack came after border security guard Simson Paulus, 41, was told to leave the 10ft croc alone Regional councillor Festus Petrus said: 'He was among a number of onlookers pulling the crocodiles tail and was warned to stay away. 'He then put both his hands on the crocodiles back and there was a huge whoosh of water as its head ripped round and it attacked. 'People were falling into the water in shock and screaming but in a blink of an eye it was so fast the crocodile had his arm in its jaws. 'It was the luckiest day of his life that it didn't pull him into deeper water and eat him but it let go and the man ran as if for his life. 'The crocodile did not chase him but as it later turned out it has been hit by a taxi while crossing the road and had been badly injured. 'If it was not for that fact then that man would not be alive' he said. Officials from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism with a vet turned up a short time later and assessed the crocodile's injuries. It was decided in the reptile's best interests to euthanise it as it was thought the taxi that hit it by the Etaka Dam caused internal injuries. Paulus had to rush to hospital, where he had to get dozens of stitches following the violent attack Councillor Petrus said:'It would have died slowly if it was not killed'. Ministry of Environment and Tourism spokesman Ndeshipanda Hamunyela said the public should not provoke the crocodiles. She said: 'It goes against the policy on human-wildlife management and the public should not ever touch wildlife especially predators. 'If left undisturbed the crocodile even after the vehicle collision would likely not have posed an immediate threat to members of the public. 'They should always contact the proper authorities for assistance in capturing wild animals instead of approaching and touching them'. The Nile crocodile is the largest predator in Africa growing up to 20 ft long and weighing up to 90kg. It is an ambush predator that can lie in wait for weeks for its prey and once its jaws snap shut it is impossible to prise them open again. They Nile Crocodile kills some 1000 people a year in Africa. The attack comes just over a week after a seven-year-old boy was left fighting for his life after a crocodile ripped off his arm while he was playing in shallow water during a fishing trip at the Roodekoppies Dam near the town of Brits in South Africa. Young Johandre Blom was reportedly playing in the water with his pal Dylan just a few feet from where their parents were fishing when he was attacked by the large reptile. The victim's father, Corne, was about 25 metres away from the caravan where he was sitting with Dylan's father, Jannie Bekker. Speaking to local media, Bekker described how he suddenly heard his little boy Dylan scream. 'I saw him grab Johandre by the arm, but there was a big jerk and then Johandre was away from Dylan. 'Dylan shouted, "there's a crocodile here", and Corne and I immediately ran to the water.' Johandre was thrown around by the crocodile in its powerful jaws before his father and Bekker reached the water and managed to pull him free, but the little boy's left arm had been ripped off. They applied towels to the wound before rushing him to hospital by car, where medics managed to stabilise Johandre. He was then flown by helicopter to hospital in Alberton, where he was reportedly placed in an induced coma and is currently in stable condition. A lost Second World War bomber shot down by the Nazis with a British airman aboard has been found after 82 years. Leslie Norman Row, from Gravesend, Kent, was flying a mission over the Mediterranean when his Baltimore Bomber was attacked. The plane, part of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), crashed off the Greek island of Antikythera, and Leslie and two comrades lost their lives. The Aussie pilot, the only survivor, miraculously escaped the wreck after it crashed into the sea. Now, after almost 82 years of uncertainty, divers have brought closure to the families of the dead, finding the bomber 200 feet (61 metres) beneath the Aegean Sea. Harry Green, president of the Gravesham and Ebbsfleet branch of the Royal British Legion, said the young airman had made the ultimate sacrifice. He said: 'He died in the name of his country, and that in itself says it all. 'He's given up his life, he's given up his future, and all his family. 'It's taken a long time to find the plane, and respect to the people who have gone out and found it.' A lost Second World War bomber shot down by the Nazis with a British airman aboard has been found after 82 years. The plane, part of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), crashed off the Greek island of Antikythera, and Leslie and two comrades lost their lives Leslie Norman Row (left), from Gravesend, Kent, was flying a mission over the Mediterranean when his Baltimore Bomber was attacked. Right: Aussie pilot, William Alroy Hugh Horsley, who was the only survivor Leslie, a navigator, flew his final mission on December 3, 1943, when he and his comrades were tasked with photographing the Greek coast. Also killed were air gunners Colin William Walker of the RAAF and John Gartside of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). A newspaper clipping about Leslie Norman Row going missing The only survivor was pilot William Alroy Hugh Horsley, who was handed over to the Germans and spent the rest of the war a prisoner. After his release, Horsley described how they had been returning from their mission when they were engaged by two Messerschmitt Bf 109s. He later recounted: 'The Me-109s delivered seven attacks, during which the aircraft was set on fire in the port wing. 'The intercommunications systems were destroyed, and Pilot Officer Walker and Warrant Officer Gartside wounded extent unknown.' What followed was a rough landing at sea. He wrote: 'When I regained consciousness the aircraft was submerged at the nose, and sea water was up to my neck. 'I released my safety harness, stood up and the aircraft submerged under me. 'I swam over the spot where the aircraft submerged, but no-one else left the aircraft, which sank in deep water about 300 yards from the northern shore of Antikythera. 'I then swam to shore in full sight of the spot until picked up by some fishermen from Antikythera.' For 81 years the plane would remain hidden. But last year AegeanTec, a Greek technical diving group, rediscovered it. Believing it to be the lost plane, RAAF Baltimore FW282, they contacted the History and Heritage Branch of the Aussie air force. Now the identity of the missing plane has been confirmed. Air chief marshal Richard Knighton, Chief of the Air Staff at the RAF, said the discovery highlighted the longstanding relationship between the three air forces. Also killed were air gunners Colin William Walker (left) of the RAAF and John Gartside of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) The remains of the plane seen at the bottom of the Aegean Sea Last year AegeanTec, a Greek technical diving group, rediscovered it. Now the identity of the missing plane has been confirmed 'It's an honour to acknowledge the bravery of the multinational crew,' Sir Richard said. 'This was a generation who embodied the importance of service and comradeship. 'Their efforts were the base on which the RAF continues to maintain the security of the UK at home and abroad. 'Their sense of duty inspires future generations of all of our air forces.' Air marshal Stephen Chappell, chief of the RAAF, hoped the find would bring closure. 'This aircraft discovery is significant and offers the chance to provide closure to families,' he said. 'The efforts of groups such as AegeanTec are critical for us in accounting for those 3,143 Australian aviators with no known grave from the Second World War and the Korean conflict. 'I am pleased, alongside my colleagues from the RAF and RNZAF, to this week to be able to announce the find. Divers inspect the wreck of the RAAF Baltimore FW282 The plane was shot down by two Messerschmitt Bf 109s A Martin Baltimore in flight. The plane was a twin-engined bomber 'And for us to acknowledge, collectively, the bravery of this combined crew of aviators from our three nations.' Air vice-marshal Darryn Webb, chief of the RNZAF, echoed the sentiment. He said: 'I hope this will bring some sense of closure for the families. 'The sacrifice of this brave crew has long been remembered, especially by their families, and we can now honour their final resting-place with the respect they deserve.' Row was born on March 2, 1918, to Albert Edward and Florence Mabel Row. A commemorative biography of him on the Gravesend Grammar School website lists him as a former pupil, back when it was The County School for Boys. It says he appeared in a school production of Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice, was a prefect, and played in the school's first XV rugby team. He left school in 1937 and joined the RAF in 1941. His father, who'd served in the merchant navy during the First World War, joined the Royal Navy reserves during the second, and father and son were briefly reunited in Egypt. Just a few months later, the younger man was killed. He is now remembered at the Alamein Memorial in Egypt. A trio of secretive Russian military satellites have released a mystery object into orbit, reigniting fears that Moscow is developing a space-based platform to launch missiles or nuclear weapons into space. The Kosmos 2581, 2582 and 2583 satellites launched into orbit from Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia in February this year. The United States Space Force (USSF) catalogued a new object in orbit this week that officials believe may have separated from Kosmos 2583 on March 18, Space.com reports. Officials warn the object could be used for a variety of purposes including military experiments, satellite inspection or target practice. The Kremlin may also be testing flying or docking technology. It is possible that the mystery object could be a result of 'unintentional fragmentation', but experts note that in those cases there are typically multiple pieces of debris. Moscow has not released any information about the satellite trio or their mission, with experts noting that several previous Kosmos missions were classified. Russia blasted its Kosmos 2553 satellite through the atmosphere atop a Soyuz-2 rocket in February 2022, just days before Vladimir Putin ordered troops across the border into Ukraine. US Officials revealed last December that Space Command suspected the Kosmos 2553 may be testing components for a Russian space weapon and is monitoring it daily for signs of a threat. The United States Space Force (USSF) catalogued a new object in orbit this week that officials believe may have separated from Russia's Kosmos 2583 satellite (pictured) on March 18 The Kosmos 2581, 2582 and 2583 satellites launched into orbit from Plesetsk Kosmodrome in northern Russia in February this year US Space Command and space trackers have been monitoring the behaviour of the Kosmos 2581, 2582 and 2583 satellites since their launch in February. Officials say that since the launch they have been in a 'near-polar orbit roughly 364 miles above Earth'. But astrophysicist and spaceflight activity tracker Jonathan McDowell revealed last month that the devices appeared to be conducting 'proximity operations'. Proximity operations involves manoeuvres where two or more spacecraft approach each other at close distances, typically for servicing, docking or inspection. McDowell at the time said it 'could just be coincidence of the fact they are in similar orbits' and noted that there was 'no evidence of targeting'. It is not unusual for satellite triplets to fly in formation in orbit, according to Space.com, with both the US and China having released several trio sets into space. But officials remain sceptical of the Kosmos trio, especially after fear over the prospect of a space arms race was sparked last year after it emerged US intelligence officials suspected Russia was aiming to deploy nuclear weapons in space. It is unclear exactly what kind of weapons system Moscow plans to deploy, but according to early reports from US government sources, a space-based nuke would be used to attack satellites in orbit rather than strike targets on the ground. Citing the satellite's behaviour (pictured in the graph above), astrophysicist and spaceflight activity tracker Jonathan McDowell revealed last month that Kosmos trio appeared to be conducting 'proximity operations' Moscow has not released any information about the satellite trio or their mission, with experts noting that several previous Kosmos missions were classified (Pictured: Kosmos 2583) This co-orbital anti-satellite weapon (ASAT) would be launched into orbit and circle the Earth before deploying some kind of nuclear device - either a bomb or a projectile - that would detonate in the proximity of enemy assets to destroy them in the original explosion, or fry their components with the resulting electromagnetic discharge. Russia conducted a daring test in 2022 that saw two Kosmos satellites stage close fly-bys of a US KH-11 spy satellite, while a third tested its ability to fire a high-velocity shell. Theoretically, such a weapon could destroy individual satellites without risking the collateral damage caused by a nuclear detonation and the resulting EMP. But the destruction of the satellite would send thousands of fragments of debris hurtling through space. This material could utterly devastate any other tech in orbit that collides with it, including the International Space Station, until the lethal fragments finally burn up in Earth's atmosphere. Last year, Russia vetoed a UN resolution calling on all nations to prevent a dangerous nuclear arms race in outer space, further stoking fears Moscow may be gearing up for a catastrophic cosmic escalation. The resolution would have called on all countries not to develop or deploy nuclear arms or other weapons of mass destruction in space, as banned under a 1967 international treaty that included the US and Russia. The Kosmos 2553 satellite was blasted through the atmosphere atop a Soyuz-2 rocket from Russia's Plesetsk Kosmodrome in February 2022 (pictured) Russia opposed the resolution, while China abstained, meaning the resolution did not pass despite the support of 13 other nations. Putin has previously said he has no intention of deploying nuclear weapons in space - but Moscow's refusal to green-light the resolution led Western lawmakers to question the Kremlin's true intentions. China has also been increasing its space capabilities at an alarming rate. In 2022 it conducted an apparently successful test of a nuclear-capable hypersonic glide vehicle and has developed an array of anti-satellite weaponry. As a result, analysts fear that a new space arms race could be on the cards, leading to a slew of fearsome new weapons and military tech orbiting the Earth. Chinese conglomerate Landbridge Group will be forced to end its controversial 99 year lease over the strategically significant Port of Darwin no matter which major party wins government. On Friday afternoon, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese placed an unexpected call to ABC Radio Darwin to unveil his plans to buy back the port if no private buyer could be found and undo a 2015 deal brokered by a former Northern Territory government. 'We've been working on this for some time,' he said, stressing the importance of getting the Port of Darwin 'back into Australian hands'. He confirmed the government had been talking with potential buyers and remained hopeful an Australian superannuation fund may adopt the lease. The call-in was an apparent bid to pre-empt Opposition Leader Peter Dutton's own plans to wrest back control of the Port. Mr Dutton had planned to make the announcement on Saturday, including a plan to seize the port if no buyer could be found within six months. 'If a private lease cannot be facilitated within six months of the process commencing, as a last resort, we will act to acquire the lease interest in the port using the Commonwealth's compulsory acquisition powers,' the Coalition wrote in a statement. It said it 'would not permit the lease of the port to any entity that is directly or indirectly controlled by a foreign government, including any state-owned enterprise or sovereign wealth fund.' Landbridge Group will be forced to sell its 99-year lease over the Port of Darwin under a Coalition or Labor government Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government had been developing plans to force the sale of the site 'for some time' The 2015 lease of the port, which is considered to be of significant defence and commercial signficance, came under fire from security experts Landbridge non-executive director Terry O'Connor told Daily Mail Australia it had not been involved in 'any discussions with the Federal Government concerning our lease agreement'. 'As previously stated, and confirmed by our owner, the Port is not for sale. 'Landbridge considers the Port a long-term investment that has reported record operational performance this year. We expect this growth to continue in the future.' Former Northern Territory chief minister Adam Giles' government awarded Landbridge the 99-year lease for $506million in October 2015. Since it was first announced, the deal has raised concerns among experts in Australia's national security. Famously, former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull was chided by then US President Barack Obama over the leasing arrangement at a 2015 meeting. Landbridge is owned by Chinese billionaire Ye Cheng, but Mr Albanese previously said the private firm is 'connected very directly' with Xi Jinping's Chinese government. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute has documented the links between the company's leadership and Chinese Communist Party. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said his government would seize the site if no buyer could be found within six months Both Albanese and Dutton would consider taking public control of the site if a private buyer could not be found When the deal was first announced, Mr Giles said: 'We have listened very carefully to the concerns of the community and the Parliament. 'This is evident in the detail of the agreement where all of the Government's desired safeguards have been delivered.' At the time, the federal government did not need to give its approval for the deal and was exempt from a formal review by the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB). Following the deal, a blindsided then-Treasurer Scott Morrison announced a review into laws allowing state and territory governments to sell strategic assets to foreign-owned companies without being subject to federal scrutiny. A 2023 review of the lease by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet found it was 'not necessary to vary or cancel the lease'. It identified a 'robust regulatory system' was already in place to 'manage risks to critical infrastructure, including the Port of Darwin'. The findings largely aligned with an earlier review by the Department of Defence. Nonetheless, security concerns have persisted as has been made clear by the attention given to it in the run up to the upcoming federal elections. Landbridge is owned by Chinese billionaire Ye Cheng, but the PM previously said the private firm is 'connected very directly' with Xi Jinping's (pictured) Chinese government On Wednesday, Mr Albanese told reporters he never would have 'flogged [the port] off in the first place'. 'We opposed the sale of the Port of Darwin. We opposed it at the time, we thought that was unwise'. Neither is it the first time Mr Albanese has flirted with the idea of taking action against the lease in a federal election campaign. In 2022, he criticised the decision and suggested his government may be willing to cancel the lease under foreign veto laws if necessary Looser Net Zero targets for electric cars could be unveiled as soon as next week in the wake of Donald Trump's tariffs attack. The US president is piling 25 per cent levies on all foreign-made vehicles and parts in his 'Liberation Day' assault. That has sparked fears of 25,000 job losses, with cars among the UK's biggest exports to America, worth billions of pounds every year. Keir Starmer is frantically trying to negotiate a package to exempt Britain from the charges, although hopes have been fading. Downing Street refused to be drawn on claims that the zero emission vehicles (Zev) mandate could be eased next week, with targets downgraded and scope for hybrids to be sold for longer. Under the current scheme at least 28 per cent of new cars sold by each manufacturer this year must be zero emission, which generally means pure electric. Ministers have hinted at a 'substantial change of policy' after Nissan warned that the future of its Sunderland plant (pictured) was in doubt Under the current scheme at least 28 per cent of new cars sold by each manufacturer this year must be zero emission, which generally means pure electric (file picture) The percentages rise each year, reaching 80 per cent of new cars in 2030. But figures today suggested the level is at around 19 per cent. Brands could face fines of up to 15,000 for every vehicle below the target. Ministers have hinted at a 'substantial change of policy' after Nissan warned that the future of its Sunderland plant was in doubt. However, it would be another blow to Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband, who has already seen his opposition to airport expansion contradicted by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. A spokesman for the PM stressed the government 'remains committed to the EV transition'. He said ministers are 'working to restore clarity to the industry'. The Government is analysing feedback from a recent consultation on proposed changes to the rules, which could include making it easier for non-compliant manufacturers to avoid fines. That closed before the US announced its tariffs. Ministers have previously committed to reverse Rishi Sunak's decision in September 2023 to delay banning the sale of conventionally fuelled new cars and vans from 2030 until 2035. It would be another blow to Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband, who has already seen his opposition to airport expansion contradicted by Chancellor Rachel Reeves There have been called for tariffs on Tesla imports as its owner Elon Musk is close ally of Mr Trump. Analysts Tussell published figures in January showing Tesla had received 188 million in taxpayer subsidies from the Department for Transport since 2016. These related to the plug-in car grant, which enables people to save money on the purchase of low-emission vehicles. Ms Reeves told the BBC last week: 'We don't want to get into a trade war, but we are looking at the zero emission vehicle mandate, which is, I think, why some of that money goes to Tesla, and looking at how we can better support the car manufacturing industry in the UK.' A young mother who posted 'mission complete' on her Snapchat story after she scammed a 78-year-old professor out of more than 300,000 worth of century-old jewellery has been jailed. Leonnie Charles, 23, was part of a criminal gang which targeted 'vulnerable' pensioners by pretending to be police officers and asking them to hand over their hard-earned cash and valuable goods. The mother-of-one was tasked with visiting the homes of the elderly victims, who were said to be from a generation that had more 'respect' for authorities, to physically collect their money and family heirlooms. The court heard the most serious scam related to a red suitcase containing expensive and sentimental family jewellery which belonged to an elderly professor. After collecting the package, Charles used social media to boast about collecting the goods, which had been in the academic's family for four generations. He described feeling as though he has been 'robbed of a connection' to his relatives and was forced to consider returning to work after the theft to 'recuperate' the enormous financial loss. In total, the criminal gang stole more than 416,000 from 27 victims who had an average age of 78. Now, Charles has been handed a 32-month custodial sentence after a sentencing hearing at Winchester Crown Court, Hampshire. Leonnie Charles, 23, was part of a criminal gang which targeted 'vulnerable' pensioners by pretending to be police officers The mother-of-one was tasked with visiting the homes of the elderly victims, who were said to be from a generation that had more 'respect' for authorities, to physically collect their money and family heirlooms Charles would then return to the car and pass the money and goods over to gang leader Faris Kayani, who would give her 100 in cash Prosecuting, Gary Venturi, said between February and September 2021 the gang attempted to scam at least 42 people with the oldest being 90 and the youngest aged 57. They managed to steal money and expensive jewellery from 27 victims living in Hampshire, London, Surrey, Kent and Sussex. Members of the gang would follow a script and call victims while pretending to be a police officer and saying there had been a problem at the bank. The victims were told to call 999 from their phone to verify the identity of the caller, but the line was intentionally kept open by the scammer and the call was not disconnected. The victims then believed they had made a new call and that they were speaking to a legitimate officer, however they were still speaking with the scammer. They were then asked to assist a police investigation and to withdraw money or hand over goods so they could be taken for fingerprint analysis. Mr Venturi said Charles had been involved in the 'courier' part of the scam which involved collecting cash and jewellery from ten of the 27 victims. The then 19-year-old would be dropped over to the victims' houses and they would hand over an envelope or package. Pictured: Luc Williams, 24 and Saqib Mahmood, 28, were also jailed for their role in the gang Charles would then return to the car and pass the money over to gang leader Faris Kayani, who would give her 100 in cash. The court heard the most serious scam involved an academic, named only as Professor Bhansali. Charles collected a red suitcase from his home which contained expensive items of jewellery. Afterwards, she took a picture of the case and posted it with the caption 'mission complete' on her story. In a victim impact statement, the professor said: 'The collection of jewellery spanned four generation. 'Some of it was over 100 years old with a value of about 300,000.' He told the court he had been 'robbed of a connection' to his family and had suffered health problems as a result of 'considerable anxiety' caused by the event ever since. Professor Bhansali said he considered going back to work to 'try and recuperate the loss' and said he felt as though he had been 'riding a wave of unhappiness'. Another 85-year-old pensioner said she felt 'paralysed' when she realised the 4,200 taken from her was part of a scam. 'I come from an era where this sort of thing just didn't happen,' she said. 'I am a pensioner, I do not have money spare to be able to lose it to scams.' She said the money stolen had been put aside to pay for her own funeral. The court heard of conversations Charles had with gang leader Kayani, 30, after her arrest in June 2021. It was heard she asked for a new laptop, commenting: 'As a bredrin, I'm asking for help.' Kayani told the then 19-year-old: 'If you get bagged you get bagged. You should know the number one rule, never keep P's in your yard.' Michael Harrison, mitigating, said a charity has since provided Charles with a two-bedroom flat which she will lose if she goes to prison. He said: 'For her to go into custody now at this stage is just going to have a devastating impact on her life. 'The guidelines are just that and there must be a more constructive way, in my submission, in dealing with her today.' Charles pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation. Judge Rufus Taylor sentenced her to 32 months in prison. He said sentencing the mother is one of the 'worst' exercises due to the 'obvious effect it's going to have on her daughter'. 'But, what she did is pretty awful,' he added. 'It's clear that the gang targeted a proportion of the population who were the most vulnerable and who were also from a generation who trust and respect the police to a greater degree than younger generations. 'I have been thinking about this case for about six months because the last thing I want to do is deprive your daughter and you, but I'm afraid I have no option.' Kayani was jailed at Salisbury Crown Court for five years and six months on Thursday after pleading guilty to fraud. His accomplices - Saqib Mahmood, 28, Luc Williams, 24 - were jailed for three years and seven months each after admitting the same offence. A young woman has described how she was left feeling like a prostitute after a man made a sex for rent proposal when he contacted her on a room-finding website. Jasmine Emery was staying at friends homes and desperately hunting for a place to live when she was approached by the pervert who groomed her over a period of weeks. He initially tried to get her to find a house to share with him without her appearing on the tenancy agreement which she refused before eventually telling her he could be her sugar daddy and suggested they could f*** and I could stay for free. Miss Emery, 20, got him blocked from the website but said she feared for the safety of others and wanted to warn them of the risks. She is also calling for more stringent laws to be put in place to protect people from being taken advantage of. The Home Office began a consultation into the issue two years ago under the previous Tory government but has yet to act. I want to show people its easy for someone to take advantage of you, Miss Emery told the Mail. I was desperate to live somewhere but there are some people who might not be able to say no. Theres a lot of vulnerable people, a lot of young girls. I think its disgusting. Jasmine Emery, 20, was asked if she would trade sex for free accommodation after a man answered her online advert for a room Inappropriate text messages and calls led sickened Miss Emery to accuse the man of having an 'Andrew Tate personality' The man contacted Miss Emery through property website SpareRoom, where she had posted a photo and some information about herself, at the end of January. He seemed perfectly fine at first but started insisting her name shouldn't appear on a tenancy agreement although he was happy for me to move in and pay him privately. Miss Emery, who lives in Lowestoft, Suffolk, repeatedly told him this wasnt acceptable and would amount to illegal subletting. She also said a formal agreement was needed because she was receiving universal credit as she is signed off work at present while she awaits a diagnosis on a suspected chronic illness. In calls and text messages, the man, who gave his name as Mik and said he worked in the construction industry, would joke about certain things [and] I became very blunt and uncomfortable - although he remained undeterred. He was asking me how I was getting money and then he said we could go for drinks. I was thinking that was a bit weird but I hadnt done this before and I didnt know what to expect really, Miss Emery said. After a few weeks looking for a place to share, still without having met, Miss Emery said she was spending a few nights at her best friend's home when Mik called, so she put him on the speaker to allow both to hear the conversation about a property he thought might be suitable for them. Shocked Miss Emery complained she was left 'feeling like a prostitute' when the man offered to be her 'sugar daddy' and promised to look after her 'in many ways' He was saying I could be your sugar daddy and I can look after you in many ways, she said. His exact words were We could f*** and not let anyone know about it and you can stay for free". I had a partner at the time and he just said Dont tell him. Me being me, I just laughed uncomfortably and said Id think about it. But then I came off the call and got really upset and angry. I texted him and said that wasnt going to happen. Mik then suggested meeting in Norwich, Norfolk, for a drink and told her to wear something sexy. I said no. Why would I meet up with someone I was thinking of living with and wear something sexy? she said. It made me feel like a prostitute. I just felt so confused and angry. My friend said it was like sexual assault through the phone but also being groomed. I didnt think that at first but maybe I was. She then blocked Mik on WhatsApp, which they had been using to message each other, and contacted SpareRoom, who banned him from the website. Inappropriate text messages and calls led sickened Miss Emery to accuse the man of having an 'Andrew Tate personality' Miss Emery said it felt like she had been 'groomed' by the man who she said tried to take advantage of her desperate need for a room Mik had set up disappearing messages but Miss Emery obtained screenshots of some exchanges. One shows him writing: 'For this arrangement me being your sugar daddy or whatever we wanna name it I can look after you in many ways. This is just the beginning. He also told her: 'I need more than a pretty face. A pretty girl without a personality is like a supercar without an engine. She eventually accused him of having an Andrew Tate persona, adding: Saying I could stay for free if I slept with you is actually nasty. He replied: Dont feel entitled cause you are a woman. Explaining why she didnt walk away sooner, despite having misgivings, Miss Emery added: I needed somewhere to live. I didnt want to take advantage of my friends good will. She added: The laws about this have to be made stronger. There was stuff a few years ago about it but you dont hear much about it now. But its happening every day and which other vulnerable people are getting taken advantage of? Research by housing charity Shelter found that 59,000 women were targeted by seedy current or prospective landlords March 2020 and September 2021. Around three-quarters said they were struggling to afford housing costs. Numbers of potential victims have grown as unscrupulous landlords take advantage of the lack of affordable housing combined with the cost-of-living crisis, which has left many struggling to find a place to live. Last year, a predatory landlord who demanded sexual favours from young female tenants to reduce their rent was jailed for two-and-a-half years. Frederick Allard, 73, took advantage of three 'vulnerable women' over a four-year period by asking them to perform sex acts for cheaper accommodation at his six-bedroom home in Tidworth, Wiltshire. Allard - who was previously caught on camera propositioning a reporter posing as a 21-year-old student in a Mail investigation - demanded naked weekly massages, telling victims: 'Nothing is for nothing in this life.' Frederick Allard, 73, was jailed after taking advantage of 'vulnerable women' by offering sex for reduced rent at his Wiltshire home, telling them: 'Nothing is for nothing in this life.' The Home Office began a consultation into the 'exchange of sexual relations for accommodation' in early 2023. A spokesman said: 'The Government is currently examining a wide range of issues and evidence as part of its work to develop a long-term strategy to halve the level of violence against women and girls. 'The responses to the 2023 consultation exercise in this area will be considered as part of that process, and the strategy itself will be published later this year.' Matt Hutchinson, director of SpareRoom - which was founded in 2004 and is the UK's most popular flatsharing website, with two million visitors every month - said: We have a zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate behaviour and we investigate every complaint. When we receive a report of this nature, the account concerned is suspended while we conduct an internal investigation, including reviewing user activity and supporting evidence provided to us. Where we have any concerns with a user's activity, their account is closed permanently. A Scottish firefighters union has been criticised for launching a bizarre bid to boost the legal protections of polyamorous people. Polyamory is the practice of romantic relationships with more than one partner at the same time, with the informed consent of all partners involved. The demand comes from the LGBT group of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) in Scotland, with members is lobbying for safeguards against discrimination for the polyamorous. It has been outlined in a motion submitted for discussion at the STUC LGBT+ Workers Conference next month. But last night the move was branded completely nuts amid concern that the union was failing to focus on more pressing problems for firefighters. One fire service source told the Mail: This is completely nuts and bizarre a small group of radical activists are using the union as a vehicle for pushing their own agenda. If you went into fire station with this, you would be laughed at its not a priority for firefighters who have many more problems. The FBU at a UK level has never agreed a pro-polyamory policy - so this is something that is being taken forward in the name of the FBU without having been voted on and formally agreed. Firefighters tackle real emergencies such as this huge blaze at an industrial estate in Cumbernauld earlier this week but there are concerns their union's focus is being diverted by a group of radicals demanding protection for the polyamorous The woke agenda is being pushed particularly hard within the FBU in Scotland which seems to be a law unto itself there are FBU officials in England who have seen this motion and are completely disgusted that this group has gone out on a limb like this. The draft motion states there are no legal protections for polyamorous people in Scotland and they can be discriminated against at work and in wider society. It states: According to a survey by YouGov, two per cent of Scottish adults said that they had been in a consensual non-monogamous relationship at some point in their lives. The same survey found that 10 per cent of Scottish adults had been open to the idea of non-monogamy. It adds that the stigma around polyamory needs to be challenged and that while polyamory is perfectly legal, it is not recognised as a protected legal status under the Equality Act 2010. This can have consequences with regards to inheritance, parental rights, and legal question on medical decisions. It says polyamorous relationships are just as valid as monogamous ones. The motion concludes that conference should call on the STUC LGBT+ Workers Committee to create a working group to look into the rights of polyamorous people, with consideration given to potential legislative changes to protect their rights. Another motion refers to a decision last year by officials at Holyrood to ban parliament staff from wearing the LGBT rainbow lanyard. It claims that the banning of rainbow lanyards was an attack on the rights of the workers and an attack on the LGBT+ community. A Scottish firefighters' union is in a middle of a bizarre row about the protections of polyamorous people while members argue it has more pressing problems to solve The motion adds that the STUC LGBT+ workers committee should lobby [the] Scottish Government with a view to reversing the policy. Leading feminist writer Julie Bindel, writing on her online Substack blog, criticised the motions at a time when firefighters are concerned about other problems such as developing certain cancers compared to the general population and the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. Dr Stuart Waiton, senior sociology lecturer at Abertay University in Dundee, said: We appear to be losing the distinction between the idea of the public self and the private self. Its actually worse than that as it is often employers or unions who demand that people are recognised for who they are, or that they can bring their whole selves to work. What is essentially the institutionalisation of narcissism has become a dominant and regressive trend in society, so it is no surprise that the trans lobby are leading the way in this self-indulgent trend. The STUC said the motions appear on a preliminary agenda and have been submitted for possible consideration. The conference will take place on May 31 and June 1 at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel in Clydebank, Dunbartonshire. The FBU declined to comment. Marine Le Pen has 'no chance' of overturning the embezzlement conviction that disqualifies her from running in France's presidential 2027 elections, journalist Anne-Elisabeth Moutet has told the Mail's new 'Apocalypse Now?' podcast. Leader of the right-wing National Rally, which has steadily become a force in French politics, Le Pen received a five-year ban from running for political office after being found guilty of embezzling European Union funds. The ban has posed uncomfortable questions about France's democracy, with US President Donald Trump piling on pressure by echoing the slogan 'Le Pen must be freed'. Speaking to the Mail's special correspondent David Patrikarakos, French journalist Anne-Elisabeth Moutet batted away accusations that Le Pen's ban was only informed by political bias. 'Nobody has any doubt that if she tries to appeal the ban, she will be found guilty again', Moutet said. Anne-Elisabeth Moutet: 'Le Pen is familiar with voters. They find her very human, unlike the other technocrats' Listen to new politics podcast - Apocalypse Now?' wherever you get your podcasts. Listen now 'Le Pen has no chance at appeal. She's guilty as hell and all her people are guilty as hell. There are emails that show people were paying Le Pen a salary for months. It was an obvious fraud.' Le Pen was the frontrunner to become France's next president, with her anti-immigration, anti-European platform increasingly chiming with voters. Host Patrikarakos asked Moutet whether the court's decision risks making Le Pen into a martyr figure, only increasing her popularity and the calls for her punishment to be overturned. Moutet answered: 'The National Rally will play this for everything it's worth - and it's working because it looks as if she's been singled out. 'It looks like people have been deprived of their right to pick their candidate. There's a phrase in French constitutional law that says you cannot deprive voters of choosing whoever they want to give their votes to. 'But Emmanuel Macron recently spoke at a Cabinet meeting and said that he respected the judges and that everyone should respect the law, which was interpreted as saying, Le Pen just has to take this.' Moutet added that it was unlikely Le Pen's natural successor Jordan Bardella would have the same mass appeal as the 'extremely nice' National Rally leader. 'Le Pen is familiar with voters. They find her very human, unlike the other technocrats. I've interviewed her a couple of times and she's an extremely nice woman. 'Older people like her, and they are the ones who go to the polls. Young people say a lot of things and then don't end up voting. French journalist Anne-Elisabeth Moutet batted away accusations that Le Pen's ban was in any way informed by political bias. Le Pen received a five-year ban from running for political office after being found guilty of embezzling European Union funds. US President Donald Trump piled on pressure by echoing the slogan 'Le Pen must be freed' 'Who knows what will happen: It is legal for a President to pick whoever they want as Prime Minister and you don't need to be a Cabinet minister to hold that position.' Apocalypse Now? is a brand-new weekly global news podcast hosted by the Daily Mail's special correspondent and best-selling author David Patrikarakos. Every episode promises a panel of guests who are on the frontline of the geopolitical world as it threatens to spin off its axis. Each week, listeners can expect informed analysis, discussion, and on-the-ground reporting about the most influential diplomatic flashpoints. From President Trump rewriting American foreign policy at will and war in Europe, to hostilities in the Middle East and the resurgence of Isis has world order ever felt so uncertain? You can listen to 'Apocalypse Now?' wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes are released every Thursday. The number of Channel small boat migrants to have reached Britain since Labour came to power is thought to have reached 30,000. There were scores of arrivals in Dover on Friday morning after UK Border Force vessels intercepted dinghies in the middle of the English Channel. Official Home Office figures show that up to Thursday there had been 29,884 arrivals since the General Election on July 4 last year. Observers said yesterday's arrivals numbered just over 150 aboard four dinghies, which would push Labour's total past the landmark of 30,000. The number of crossings in the equivalent period from July 2023 to April 2024 - when the Tories were still in power - was 23,439. It means Labour has overseen a 28 per cent leap in arrivals. One of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's first acts in office was scrapping the Conservatives' Rwanda asylum scheme, which had been designed to deter migrants from crossing the Channel in the first place. A group of migrants are brought into the port of Dover on Friday aboard UK Border Force catamaran BF Typhoon Migrants disembark at the port of Dover on Friday after being intercepted aboard a small boat in the English Channel. They were brought to UK soil by Border Force Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: 'Keir Starmer has betrayed the British public by losing control of our borders. 'His pledge to "smash the gangs" lies in tatters. 'He cancelled the Rwanda deterrent before it even started, with no plan in place, and now illegal immigrants are flooding into the country.' Mr Philp added: 'Starmer needs to develop a backbone and immediately implement a removals deterrent. 'It's the only way we can stop these boats. 'This total loss of border control is catastrophic for our country. Your browser does not support iframes. A group of at least 20 migrants were seen bring brought into Dover after being intercepted on a small boat by Border Force officers on Friday Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, right, is shown a surveillance video of people smuggling gangs during a visit to Le Touquet, France, in February 'Starmer should hang his head in shame.' UK Border Force vessels brought scores of people to the port of Dover this morning aboard its catamarans BF Typhoon and BF Hurricane. It came after a week-long hiatus which saw no arrivals due to 30mph gusts in the Channel. After cancelling the Rwanda programme the Government has placed an emphasis on law enforcement measures against the human trafficking gangs. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has also dedicated more resources to removing foreign nationals who do not have the right to be in the UK, including foreign national offenders. The scene in Dover port on Friday as Border Force officers bring a group of small boat migrants ashore, with the latest arrivals pushing the total to have reached the UK since Labour came to power past a landmark 30,000 Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp accused PM Sir Keir Starmer of 'betraying the British people' Since the start of this year 6,642 migrants have reached Britain by small boat, not including Friday's unconfirmed number. It is 22 per cent higher than the 5,435 who came here in the same period last year. Official data published in February showed asylum claims have surged under Labour to hit more than 108,000 last year the highest number since records began in 1979. The biggest increase came in the second half of 2024 following the general election - when more than 61,383 asylum bids were lodged, compared with 50,352 during the same period in 2023. Your browser does not support iframes. The annual total - an 18 per cent year-on-year rise - smashed the previous record set during the early 2000s asylum crisis by five per cent. Asylum claims are made not just by new arrivals but also by foreign nationals who may have been in Britain for years. A Labour source said: 'Under the last Conservative government 128,000 people crossed the Channel. 'The worst day, worst week, worst month and worst year of small boat crossings all took place when they were in charge and the Rwanda scheme was in place. Channel arrivals disembark from a Border Force vessel in Dover earlier on Friday 'Most appalling of all, more than 30,000 people arrived in just 20 weeks between Boris Johnson winning his no-confidence vote in June 2022 and Jeremy Hunt presenting his Emergency Budget that November, because the Tories were too busy fighting amongst themselves and crashing the economy to worry about protecting our borders. 'That was the disastrous record they left behind, and we will take no lectures from them now.' A Home Office spokesman said: 'We all want to end dangerous small boat crossings, which threaten lives and undermine our border security. 'The people-smuggling gangs do not care if the vulnerable people they exploit live or die, as long as they pay and we will stop at nothing to dismantle their business models and bring them to justice. 'Thats why this government has put forward a serious, credible plan to finally restore order to our asylum system, including tougher enforcement powers, ramping up returns to their highest levels for more than half a decade and a major crackdown on illegal working to end the false promise of jobs used by gangs to sell spaces on boats.' A businessman has revealed how a US customer pulled out of a 350,000 export deal at the last moment over Donald Trumps swingeing tariffs. Richard Finch, whose firm provides specialist gearbox parts and construction equipment spares, had 25 tonnes of goods packed in a container and ready to leave. But when the US president imposed a 25 per cent levy on steel, aluminium and cars, the purchaser backed out of the deal. The collapsed arrangement will be repeated at businesses across the country, particularly now Mr Trump has also imposed an across-the-board ten per cent tariff on UK exports to the US. Mr Finch, who co-owns Plant Parts Ltd in Hadleigh, Suffolk, said his customer would have had an extra 87,500 to pay in duties. All the goods are here in my yard and literally at the last minute the container was cancelled because my customers in the States cant afford or dont want to pay the tariffs. Its quite a lot of money, he said. It takes four weeks for the container to arrive [in the US]. Obviously, anything that left here in the last month or so, they are going to have to pay tariffs on. The items most of which originate from Japan, Italy and Germany are now languishing in a warehouse. Businessman Richard Finch's firm has lost a 350,000 export to the UK following President Trump's swingeing tariffs that have sparked a global trade war President Trump sparked a global trade war on Wednesday when he announced huge tariffs on countries around the world We have to try and find new homes for some of it, added Mr Finch, who hopes the purchaser will continue to buy goods from him but suspects it wont be at the same scale. Mr Trump hit countries around the world with stringent tariffs on Wednesday that are expected to wipe billions from global economic growth. He accused other nations, including allies, of looting, pillaging, raping and plundering the US. The EU has been hit with a 20 per cent tariff, while China is facing 34 per cent. The Office for Budget Responsibility last week slashed its outlook for the UKs already anaemic economic growth since Labour took power, from two per cent to one per cent - but without taking account of the trade war, which will further dent the economy. Economists have warned it will wipe out the fiscal headroom Chancellor Racher Reeves engineered for herself last week in her Spring Statement. The crisis comes at a time when Mr Finchs firm in common with others has been buffeted by a raft of cost increases. Transport costs have risen enormously over the last year. New minimum wages brought in by Labour that take effect this month will not directly affect employees at Plant Parts but it will have to increase salaries in response and shoulder extra National Insurance costs. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Tariffs unveiled by President Trump on Tuesday at the White House include 20 per cent on the EU, 34 per cent on the EU and 24 per cent on Japan We do our pay rises in April anyway. I think our basic payroll will have gone up by 60,000 but theres an additional 20,000 extra in National Insurance costs on top of that, Mr Finch said. You try and succeed despite government, not because of it, dont you? It seems to be there are continuous obstacles put in your path. The firms 8.5 million turnover is now expected to fall this year. Around a quarter of sales are domestic and about 75 per cent of construction equipment deals are exports, with 50 per cent going to Europe before Brexit - although that has now dropped to 28 per cent. It has opened two HMRC customs warehouses to try to overcome some of the difficulties but they are expensive to run and require two more staff. Most of that slice has been taken up by North America thats about 38 per cent about 50/50 between Canada and the US, Mr Finch added. The entrepreneur founded his company from home in 1991. In addition to warehousing, he has a million-pound workshop for hydrostatic gearboxes, which use hydraulic fluid to transfer power. A mother who suffocated her newborn baby and left his body in woodland has avoided jail today after finally being brought to justice nearly three decades later. Joanne Sharkey, 55, had pleaded guilty in March to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and endeavouring to conceal the birth of a child - following her arrest 25 years after the body of her son was found inside two knotted bin bags. But Sharkey, a 28-year-old council worker at the time of baby Callum's death, was today given a two-year suspended prison sentence at Liverpool Crown Court. Judge Mrs Justice Eady told Sharkey: 'The real question is whether appropriate punishment can only be achieved by a term of immediate custody. Having carefully considered this issue, I am satisfied that this very sad case calls for compassion.' The baby, later named as Callum, was discovered by a dog walker near Gulliver's World theme park in Warrington on March 14, 1998 - but his identity remained a mystery until Sharkey was traced more than two decades later through DNA checks. This followed the arrest of her other son and Sharkey later admitted that she killed the baby while suffering from postnatal depression after her first son's birth in 1996. Detectives named the infant Callum after the Callands district of the Cheshire town where he was found dead, because his true identity could not be confirmed. A funeral service was arranged by local people for the boy believed to have been born at full term - and he was buried in Warrington Cemetery a few months later. The headstone, paid for with money raised by locals, said: 'Baby Callum, precious child of God. Laid to rest July 27, 1998. With love, from the people of Warrington.' Joanne Sharkey was initially charged with murder and concealing the birth of a baby The funeral procession for baby Callum at St Elphin's Church in Warrington on July 27, 1998 Judge Mrs Justice Eady told Sharkey at Liverpool Crown Court today that she accepted her mental state at the time had 'substantially impaired your ability to form rational judgments' Passing sentence at Liverpool Crown Court, Mrs Justice Eady told Sharkey she accepted her mental state at the time had 'substantially impaired your ability to form rational judgments' and since then had been 'haunted' by what she had done. Sharkey, from West Derby, Liverpool, sat shaking with emotion and wiping away tears as the judge said she would pass a suspended sentence. The defendant's family in the public gallery broke down in tears and exchanged hugs. Mrs Justice Eady said: 'I'm clear you suffered a lengthy postnatal depression. The events that bring us to this court are both terrible and tragic. 'Nothing I can do or say can turn the clock back to resolve the tragedy of this case. You lived isolated with this terrible and tragic knowledge. 'You had carried this with you the whole time, thinking about it every day. I'm satisfied your offending was not planned or premeditated. 'I'm satisfied that this very sad case calls for compassion. No useful purpose would be achieved by immediate imprisonment.' Sharkey was given a two-year prison sentence for manslaughter and six months for the offence of concealment of the birth of a child, to run concurrent and both suspended for two years. It came nearly 10,000 days since the morning of March 14, 1998, when Callum's body was found at 10.45am by a local man out walking his dog with his young son in a wooded area off Camp Road, near Gulliver's World. Joanne Sharkey pleaded guilty to one count of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and endeavouring to conceal the birth of a child Details about the case were given at an earlier hearing. Prosecution barrister Jonas Hankin KC said psychiatrists agreed Sharkey was 'fearful of becoming a mother to another child' and developed a depressive illness which 'substantially impaired (her) ability to form rational judgment and exercise self-control'. She told police she kept her pregnancy a secret and when the baby was born in the bathroom of her house in Croxteth, Liverpool, she heard him starting to make a noise and covered his nose and mouth 'to make him quiet'. The court heard Sharkey was a married 28-year-old housing benefit officer at West Lancashire Council when Callum was born. But Sharkey soon found the combination of a full-time job and motherhood challenging, and she has since been diagnosed as suffering from postnatal depression during that period. When she became pregnant in the summer of 1997, she did not tell her husband. On March 12 1998, a man saw a young woman walking quickly out of the woods who looked 'upset'. The man walked into the woods near Gulliver's World and saw a black bin bag lying on the ground to the left of the track but did not touch it. The coffin of Callum during his funeral at St Elphin's Church in Warrington on July 27, 1998 Two days later a dog walker saw the same bag, was curious about what was inside and punctured it with a stick to find the body of an infant inside. Upon the discovery, he sought help from the theme park and a paediatrician happened to be present, who confirmed the body was that of a baby boy. Callum was pronounced dead at 11.25am on March 14. The body was taken to Warrington General Hospital, where a pathologist found the baby had been a 'normally developed, full-term infant' with no structural abnormality or natural disease. He found a number of bruises over the infant's face, head and neck, and wads of tissue in his mouth. Due to findings from a post-mortem, Cheshire Constabulary launched a murder investigation - and a full DNA sample was taken from the baby, as well as from blood found on the bin bags. This identified the DNA profile of the mother of the baby, but there was no match on the police database for her. The approach road to Gulliver's World theme park in Warrington where baby Callum was found A partial DNA profile for the father was obtained, but there was again no match. Police said DNA swabs were taken from a large number of people living locally at the time, but none provided a match. Officers carried out house-to-house enquiries with hundreds of people interviewed, and spoke to local hospitals, midwife services, GPs, other medical services and schools, to identify any women or girls who may had given birth recently. But despite all the force's efforts and anniversary media appeals in the following years, nothing led to the identification of Callum's parents. The case stayed on a list of 'cold' cases and was regularly reviewed including searches of the police DNA database and further DNA analysis as advances in science were made. Then, the current investigation that led to the parents being identified began in January 2022. During a periodic review of the national database, the DNA profile of Matthew Sharkey, Joanne Sharkey's first child, whose DNA had by that time been uploaded to the national DNA database because he had been arrested for an unrelated offence, was found to be a close match to that of the infant. The court heard DNA samples were taken from Joanne and Neil Sharkey, who were identified as the biological parents, and Sharkey was arrested for murder in July 2023, telling officers her husband 'knows nothing about it'. A court artist's sketch of Joanne Sharkey at Warrington Magistrates' Court on April 16, 2024 While they were in the back of a police car prior to being interviewed, a covert recording was made of a conversation between them during which Mrs Sharkey was heard to say 'I'm not gonna f****** deny nothing, it is what it is, isn't it. I f****** did it.' She later told police she kept her pregnancy a secret by wearing bigger clothes and keeping everyone 'at arm's length'. Sharkey told officers the labour, which she thought had happened in the bathroom, was 'easy and quick' and she was the only person in the house at the time. She told police: 'I sort of reached down. I must have been on the floor at this point. I've covered his nose, his mouth. It just couldn't make that noise, just to be quiet.' Sharkey replied 'no comment' when asked about the wads of tissue and bruising to the baby's head and neck. She then drove to Warrington to dispose of the child. Later she told detectives: 'It's haunting, something you think about every day. You try and push it out but it creeps back in. You carry on with your life, you go to work and you do Christmas and you do Easter but this is always in your head.' The court heard two doctors gave the baby's medical cause of death as 'unascertained' and could not determine whether he had been alive when the tissue was put in his mouth. Nina Grahame KC, defending Sharkey, said: 'Were it not for her mental illness it is inconceivable a woman such as Mrs Sharkey would have failed to care for her newborn child.' On March 6, Sharkey pleaded guilty to one count of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and concealing the birth of a child. Callum was discovered close to Gulliver's World theme park in Warrington in March 1998 The Crown Prosecution Service said medical evidence concluded that Sharkey had an 'abnormality of mental functioning' at the time of the offence 'arising out of a medical condition' and this 'substantially impaired her ability to form a rational judgement and to exercise self-control'. It was added that this 'caused or was a significant contributory factor in causing her to kill her newborn child'. Following the sentencing, Cheshire Constabulary Detective Inspector Hannah Friend said: 'The case of Baby Callum has stayed with the local community for 27 years; he has never been forgotten, and his memory has lived on in the area ever since. 'But our efforts to locate who cut his innocent life short have never wavered over the years, and the case was subject to regular reviews and refreshed searches of the national DNA database. 'It was thanks to this that a familial DNA match was identified, and following a thorough investigation, Sharkey was identified, arrested and later charged. 'I would again like to thank the officers and staff involved throughout this investigation, whether this was back in 1998, or more recently, whose dedication meant someone was brought before the courts to be held accountable for a baby's untimely death. 'While the sentencing hearing today marks the end of these proceedings, we will continue to remember Callum, as will all those who have been affected by this tragic case.' More than half a million young people not in work, education or training have never had a job, a shocking analysis has found. A staggering 13 per cent of all 16 to 24-year-olds in the UK are not in education, employment or training (NEET) - equating to nearly one million young people. New research by the Learning and Work Institute (L&W) showed that three in five (58 per cent) of NEETs have never had a paid job. The study also warned of how it is much harder for young people to get back on track once they have been a NEET for a sustained period of time. Almost half (48 per cent) are still not in education, employment or training a year after they first become a NEET. Sir Keir Starmer has said the number of inactive young Britons is a 'moral issue', with the Prime Minister warning of a 'wasted generation'. The L&W analysis showed how the majority of NEETs are economically inactive (59 per cent), meaning they are currently unavailable for work or not looking for work . This is primarily because of a long-term health condition or disability (27 per cent of NEETs), looking after their family or home (13 per cent), or for other reasons (19 per cent). New research by the Learning and Work Institute (L&W) showed that three in five (58 per cent) of NEETs have never had a paid job A staggering 13 per cent of all 16 to 24-year-olds in the UK are not in education, employment or training (NEET) - equating to nearly one million young people The analysis showed how the majority of NEETs are economically inactive (59%). This is primarily because of a long-term health condition or disability The research found the percentage of young people in England who are not currently seeking employment or are unable to work because of health reasons has more than doubled in the past decade. Meanwhile, 48 per cent of NEETs in the UK who have a health condition or disability do not report their health as the main reason they are a NEET. The L&W study stated the high percentage of NEETs who have never had a paid job was, in part, driven by high proportions of under-18s who have not started working yet. But it also showed that even for NEET young people over the age of 18, a substantial proportion have never had a paid job. Two-fifths (39 per cent) of NEETs have never had a paid job and left full time education before the age of 19. L&W's recently updated 'Youth Opportunity Index' revealed how there are substantial disparities in the opportunities available to young people across England. NEET rates were significantly higher in Wales (15 per cent) and the North East (16 per cent) as they were in London (9 per cent) and the South East (10 per cent). Sixteen of the 20 best areas for youth opportunities are in London. Stephen Evans, chief executive of L&W, said the number of NEETs who have never had a paid job is 'really very stark and very worrying'. 'It's not a massive surprise for 16 year-olds,' he added. 'But the fact that you've got people heading into their mid-twenties and half of them have never had a proper job is quite shocking. 'It is going to have a long-term impact on their career prospects if we don't do something quite urgently.' L&W's recently updated 'Youth Opportunity Index' revealed how there are substantial disparities in the opportunities available to young people across England NEET rates were significantly higher in Wales (15 per cent) and the North East (16 per cent) as they were in London (9 per cent) and the South East (10 per cent) As part of Labour's bid to overhaul the welfare system, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall is planning a 'Youth Guarantee' for 18 to 21-year-olds. This will see mayors and local authorities asked to ensure young people have access to an apprenticeship, training and education opportunities or help to find a job. Those who refuse to take up work and training opportunities will lose their benefits, Ms Kendall has warned. Mr Evans said: 'The Government's introduction of a 'Youth Guarantee' in England is a step in the right direction but it will need a laser-like focus on delivery and greater investment to improve opportunities. 'Talent is evenly distributed in our country, but opportunity isn't. That needs to change.' A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said ministers were 'determined that no young person gets left behind'. He added: 'Our reforms to get Britain working will empower mayors and local areas to join up local work, health, and skills support to tackle inactivity in their areas, deliver a Youth Guarantee so every young person is either earning or learning, and overhaul JobCentres across the country. 'We're also making sure young people get the right support, from better mental health services to proper careers advice, so that everyone has the chance to succeed in life.' Virginia Giuffre is still holed up in a Perth hospital more than 10 days after a mysterious car crash with a school bus, despite conflicting reports about its severity. The 41-year-old - who was allegedly trafficked as a teenager by Jeffrey Epstein to have sex with Prince Andrew, who denied those claims - initially said she had just 'four days to live' after the crash at a rural intersection in Western Australia. She had shared a selfie from her hospital bed showing her severely bruised face, but the bus driver, WA Police and multiple other witnesses said the collision was not nearly as serious as she made out. Giuffre claimed she was trafficked as a 17-year-old to have sex with Prince Andrew. In February 2022, the Duke of York paid her an undisclosed amount, reportedly in the millions, to settle the case, though he denied any wrongdoing and it came with no admission of liability. Afterwards she made a fresh start by acquiring a $1.3 million country property for her family, with the sprawling 40-acre farm boasting two separate homes, stables and multiple outbuildings. It is less than an hour north from the family's beachfront mansion in Perth. To outsiders, the high-security gated property looks like an idyllic place to bring up children with a babbling brook, horses and a custom-built dirt bike track around the perimeter. But in reality, the 40-acre property is a gilded cage, surrounded by barbed wire fences and high-tech CCTV. No doubt Giuffre wanted to shield her three teenage children, a daughter and two sons, from prying eyes, previously admitting her profile was 'a lot for them to carry'. Virginia Giuffre, 41, claimed she had just 'four days to live' after the car she was travelling in collided with a bus and shared this bruised selfie Giuffre has been living there alone since a 'messy' split from her husband Robert earlier this year (pictured together) The family's picturesque farm (above) had become a gilded cage with CCTV and barbed wire Giuffre has been living at the farm alone since a 'messy' split from her husband Robert earlier this year. She also appears to be estranged from her children. They attended school this past week though no sign of them was seen at Guiffre's hospital during visiting hours. Her eldest son is no longer 'friends' with his mum on social media. Giuffre is also accused of breaching a family violence restraining order at the family home and is due to face Joondalup court on April 9. 'You don't know the half of it,' one neighbour told Daily Mail Australia. 'I can't really say anymore, but none of this surprises me.' It is not known if she will be discharged for the court date as hospital sources said 'it looks like she may be here for a few more days still'. When she does leave hospital, she is expected to return to the farm where she now lives an almost reclusive life, cut off from the outside world and now, it appears, her family. The small township surrounding the property has little more than 250 residents and the area is mostly home to vegetable farms employing seasonal workers and retirees. It's unlikely many people in the sleepy community would even recognise their newest neighbour. Virginia Giuffre, then Virginia Roberts, pictured with Prince Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell in early 2001. Giuffre was reportedly paid up to $20million over her claims Cheryl , 71, helps take care of Giuffre's 40-acre farm which her family used as a country escape from their $1.9million beachside mansion in Perth, 60km away The entrance gate to the idyllic property, far from the house, remains double-padlocked By all accounts Giuffre has quietly slipped into her new country life and keeps to herself. She doesn't frequent the nearest coffee shop, country club or pub, and her absence has been noted during community events by other locals. While she seemingly shuns local stores she is still a regular at the large mall closer to the city where she can sink into the crowds and is often spotted 'splashing her cash on solo shopping trips'. 'She is not very friendly,' noted one retired lady who lives alongside the secluded property. 'If you don't make yourself known here then it can be very lonely and she hasn't really joined the community.' While her husband initially joined the towns social media pages, posting about his wish to keep bees and plant native trees, he is now living at their Perth beach house with their three children. Unable to manage the upkeep of the livestock that include horses, sheep and chickens she has hired local lady, Cheryl, as a farmhand. Spotted most days tending to the animals and cleaning the yard, the 71-year-old was at the wheel on the day of the controversial accident. Cheryl was at the wheel when the car collided with the bus but said the whole drama has been a misunderstanding The family's beachside house in Perth where it is understood Giuffre's husband and kids are living but she is not Seemingly unscathed herself, Cheryl told Daily Mail Australia she is not part of a 'cover up,' and believes her boss will clear up any confusion. 'I'm sure Virginia will release a statement soon to clear it all up,' she said. Giuffre claimed on March 30 she was suffering kidney failure after being hit by a speeding school bus at 110km/h. However, the bus driver Sean Munns and multiple passengers have since come forward claiming the crash was nothing more than a 'minor bump.' WA Police confirmed to Daily Mail Australia they had one recent record of a 'minor,' bus and car collision with 'no reported injuries' on March 24 just after 3pm. According to reports, Giuffre admitted herself to Joondalup Hospital in the northern suburbs of Perth, with a pre-existing injury after the collision but was discharged the following day. The following week Giuffre was brought to Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, also in Perth, by ambulance and was seeking treatment for pain. On Wednesday her agent, who reportedly also represents Monika Lewinsky, weighed in on the situation with a statement. 'Today she remains in serious condition while receiving medical care. On March 24, in rural Western Australia, a school bus hit the car in which she was riding,' the statement from Giuffre's agent read. 'The police were called but said that there was no one available to come to the scene. 'They asked if anyone was injured and suggested that if they were, they should make their way to the hospital. 'The school bus driver had a bus full of distraught children and left the scene to get them back, saying he would file a police report, which he did later. 'Virginia was banged up and bruised and returned home. Virginia's condition worsened and she was admitted to the hospital.' Life has seemingly continued as normal for Mr Giuffre who was spotted today doing the school run, buying dog food and letting the pool maintenance man in. He didn't wish to comment on his wife's condition, however, a man claiming to be his 'buddy' pulled up outside his property insisting the bizarre turn of events had little to do with Mr Giuffre. 'So what if she is in hospital, so what if she made up a lie, she doesn't even live here anymore so what's it got to do with him,' the man said. China will soon impose an additional 34 per cent tariffs on all US imports in a retaliatory move that will cause prices to skyrocket for American consumers. Beijing announced the measure today, the most serious escalation in a trade war with Trump that has fed fears of a recession and triggered a global stock market rout. The new tariff, which comes into effect on April 10, matches the rate of the 'reciprocal' 34 per cent levy imposed by Donald Trump this week. The levies are in addition to the existing tariffs already imposed on US goods. US exports to China totalled $143.5 billion last year, according to Office of the US Trade Representative data. Oilseeds and grains, including soybeans, machinery and aerospace products were America's top exports to the country. The US imported $438.9 billion worth of goods from China last year, with top imports including electrical and electronic equipment, machinery, toys, and plastics. Beijing's commerce ministry also said it will impose more export controls on rare earths, which are materials used in high-tech products such as computer chips and electric vehicle batteries. China added 11 entities to the 'unreliable entity' list, which allows Beijing to take punitive actions against foreign entities. The country also filed a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over sweeping US tariffs imposed on its exports. It comes after Trump ignited a potentially ruinous global trade war this week by imposing 10 per cent levies on imports from around the world and harsh extra duties on key trading partners. Analysts warn the tariffs - which are paid in the first instance by US importers - will likely push up the price of many household items in America and reduce consumers' spending power. China will an additional 34 per cent tariffs on all American imports, beginning April 10, in retaliation for Donald Trump's 34 per cent levy. Pictured: Chinese President Xi Jinping during an international business meeting on March 28 President Donald Trump delivers remarks on tariffs at the White House on Wednesday Beijing swiftly vowed 'countermeasures' to protect its rights and interests after Washington this week imposed steep new levies on Chinese products. 'For all imported goods originating from the US, an additional tariff of 34 per cent on top of the current applicable tariff rate will be imposed,' China's Finance Ministry said today. Beijing's Commerce Ministry also imposed export controls on seven rare earth elements - including samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium and yttrium - to the US, effective April 4. 'The purpose of the Chinese government's implementation of export controls on relevant items in accordance with the law is to better safeguard national security and interests, and to fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation,' the Commerce Ministry said in a statement. The Commerce Ministry added: 'China has filed a lawsuit under the WTO dispute settlement mechanism.' China has been hit particularly hard - the latest salvo adds 34 per cent to a 20 per cent rate imposed last month, bringing the total additional tariffs on imports from the Asian economic powerhouse imposed by this Trump administration to 54 per cent. Shoppers may find their favourite electronics, including iPhones, will soon become much pricier due to the tariffs if companies pass the price onto consumers. Despite moves to expand its supply chain, Apple still makes the vast majority of its iPhones in China, where hardware exports will be hit with a tariff totaling 54 per cent from April 9. The cheapest iPhone 16 model was launched in the US with a sticker price of $799, but could cost as much as $1,142, per calculations based on projections from analysts at Rosenblatt Securities, who say the cost could rise by 43 per cent. A more expensive iPhone 16 Pro Max, which currently retails at $1,599, could cost nearly $2,300 if a 43 per cent increase were to pass to consumers. The US imported $438.9 billion worth of goods from China last year, with top imports including electrical and electronic equipment, machinery, toys, and plastics. Pictured is a worker in a factory which produces steel machinery for export, in Hangzhou, China on February 21 US exports to China totalled $143.5 billion last year. Oilseeds and grains, including soybeans, machinery and aerospace products were America's top exports to the country. Pictured is a combine harvester cuts, threshes, and cleans soybeans during a harvest in Ohio in 2022 China's new tariffs comes after its Commerce Ministry issued a statement yesterday condemning the US measures as a 'typical act of unilateral bullying'. Beijing urged the Trump Administration to 'immediately' remove the tariffs and encouraged the US to resolve any disputes through 'fair and equal dialogue'. Trump's latest tariff hikes on US imports are compelling countries and industries to scramble for footing in a time of potential upheavals in global trade. Nations from Canada to China have readied retaliation in an escalating trade war after Trump raised US tariff barriers to their highest level in more than a century this week, leading to a plunge in world financial markets. As world markets wallowed in more heavy losses today, Taiwan's president promised to provide support to industries most vulnerable to the 32 per cent tariffs Trump ordered in his 'Liberation Day' reciprocal tariffs announcement. Vietnam said its deputy prime minister would visit the US for talks on trade. Some, like the head of the EU's European Commission, have vowed to fight back while promising to improve the rules book for free trade. Others said they were hoping to negotiate with the Trump administration for relief. In Japan, one of America's top trading partners, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said that the tariffs had created a 'national crisis' as a plunge in banking shares today set Tokyo's stock market on course for its worst week in years. Investment bank JP Morgan said it now sees a 60 per cent chance of the global economy entering recession by year end, up from 40 per cent previously. Cargo shipping containers are stacked at the Port Authority of Thailand in Bangkok today. Thailand is facing significant economic repercussions following President Trump's 'Liberation Day' announcement, which imposes a 36 per cent reciprocal tariff on Thai exports to the US European stock markets and global oil prices tanked this morning, extending a rout as investors fret over the impact of Trump's tariffs onslaught. Frankfurt's DAX index of blue-chip companies fell as much as five percent after midday while Paris shed four percent and London was down 3.8 percent. Crude oil prices fell more than five percent, with Brent North Sea, the international benchmark, reaching $66.64 per barrel after already hitting the lowest level since December 2021 while US contract WTI dropped to $63.45. India was hit by a 26 per cent tariff rate, lower than the 34 per cent for Chinese exports and 46 per cent for Vietnam. India's Commerce Ministry that it was 'studying the opportunities that may arise due to this new development in US trade policy.' It said talks were underway on a trade agreement, including 'deepening supply chain integration'. The US was New Delhi's biggest trading partner in 2024 with two-way trade estimated at $129 billion, according to US data. They have set an ambitious target of more than doubling their bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. Most pharmaceuticals and other medicines, important Indian exports to the US, are exempt from the reciprocal tariffs. However, diamonds and other gems, another major export industry, are subject to the higher duties. Farmers burn an effigy of US President Donald Trump (C, top) and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a protest in Amritsar on April 4, 2025, following Trump's sweeping new tariffs on imports to the US from countries right across the globe People hold flags and signs as they protest in solidarity with Canada over tariffs policy, near the Canada-US border crossing in Buffalo, New York on April 2 Most US trading partners have emphasised they hope negotiations can help resolve trade friction with Washington. In Italy, Premier Giorgia Meloni told state TV she believes the 20 per cent US tariffs on exports from Europe were wrong, but 'it is not the catastrophe that some are making it out to be.' Meloni's government planned to meet next week with representatives of affected sectors to formulate plans. Japan's leader Ishiba and other governments also said they were preparing countermeasures to help industries cope. Likewise, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said the EU was consulting with steel and auto makers, pharmaceutical companies and other industries about how to give them more 'breathing space.' A Hollywood star's neighbours have hit out at planners for approving his plans to bulldoze a cottage in an idyllic English village, saying the demolition will 'spoil' the area and 'attract crime'. Locals say the Cheers star's project for his seaside house is an example of 'the 'rich and famous doing what they want', and claim they are being priced out of their local area. Kelsey Grammer, 70, and his wife Kayte Walsh, 46, had earlier failed in a bid to build an extension but has now been told 'no prior approval' is needed to get rid of the cottage in a village near Portishead in Somerset. Speaking in 2023, the star revealed the couple had bought a 'little place' in Portishead to be closer to his wife's Bristolian family. In an interview at the time, he said they were going to be 'working on it' and wouldn't take up residence there for a while but were 'pretty excited.' But some locals say the wealthy have priced local people out of the community - and are unhappy with Grammer's plans. Wendy Osment, 74, who lives nearby, said: 'I think it's such a shame because it's a beautiful building with character, it's old and it's part of the community. 'People have already taken a couple of the old cottages down. The 200-year-old cottage lies near a scheduled ancient monument - a hillfort, saucer barrow, banjo enclosure (both so-named because of their shape) and earthworks dating back to the Iron Age Speaking in 2023, the star revealed the couple had bought a 'little place' in Portishead to be closer to his wife's Bristolian family Kelsey Grammer, 70, and his wife Kayte Walsh, 46, had earlier failed in a bid to build an extension but has now been told 'no prior approval' is needed to get rid of the cottage in a village near Portishead in Somerset 'I've lived here all my life. I've got grandchildren and they can't even afford to live here. 'The local children can't afford to live here because of all these rich people coming here. They've knocked down all the cottages and built great big houses and it's just spoiling the character. 'They want to buy these old properties with character because they've got the money but they just want to knock them down. 'They think they're rich and famous and they can just do what they want. I don't even know who he is. 'I've been here 74 years and when it was a village it was just so lovely, the community. You could go out and leave doors and windows open. 'But now, there is so much crime coming into Portishead because there is more money here. 'When it was just a village, everybody was simple people, but now, it's all these big buildings, a bit of money everywhere and I think it's bringing crime.' Andy Norrie, 62, who owns a caravan holiday park near the cottage, said: 'I don't agree with it. Wendy Osment, 74, who lives nearby, said local children can't afford to live in the Portishead areas anymore due to an influx of the rich and famous Pete Wilcox, a 59-year-old upholsterer is concerned what might happen to the greenbelt land next to Grammer's property A demolition notice has now been put up outside the property, which the couple bought to be closer to Kayte's family in Bristol 'It's not in-keeping nor in tradition with the village, knocking down an old building like that to put something modern up.' But Barbara Trickett, 77, said: 'It's just progress. If they knock it down and build something sympathetic to the area, woods, wildlife, estuary and the lane - not some ultra-modern house - I wouldn't have any objections. 'Obviously there's going to be disruption but if they got involved and said: "This is going to be happening", it would be all right. 'We have a great community here - we have a village hall, village church run by the villagers and dozens of activities in the hall.' Susan Smart, 76, who lives in a residential caravan park in Walton Bay, said: 'For us here, it would not bother us that much, I just hope it's in-keeping with the other houses that have been done. Three properties have been knocked down over the past year. 'I would like it to stay like that but unfortunately I think in this climate people have got the money, they buy houses and do things you're only able to do if you've got the money to pay for it. 'A precedent has been set with the three houses already modified. Once you have let one person do it, it opens up for the rest.' Pete Wilcox, a 59-year-old upholsterer living nearby, said: 'He applied for an extension and they said no but now they have said yes to knocking it down. Andy Norrie, 62, who owns a caravan holiday park near the cottage, said plans to demolish the cottage would not be 'in-keeping' with the rest of the village Susan Smart, 76, said the council has set a precedent by allowing three other houses in the area to be demolished The traditional cottage, with a conservatory, is situated in the beautiful Somerset countryside The house looks out onto green belt land, with locals concerned any new development will stand out from the other traditional houses 'From the council's point of view, it doesn't make sense. It seems a bit extreme after they said no to the extension. 'It doesn't bother us particularly. They have just built two modern-looking places, including an eco house, I think. It cannot be out of place if they've allowed those.' He also feared it could set a precedent for the empty field to the right of the property. 'It's the last one, then you go into the green belt. This is meant to be green belt - if they allow that, will they allow others? 'It's a shame they're going to knock it down but that's life.' The actor's plans have infuriated neighbours with eight letters of objection submitted published on the North Somerset Council planning portal with none in support. Concerns included loss of historic value being lost, no justification for demolition, damage to rural nature, loss of greenspace and objections to future modern designs. But in a recently published decision notice, council planners confirmed no prior approval was needed and the demolition could be carried out. Last year's application stated that he wanted to tear down a garage and car port and build a new basement gym, games room, guest bedroom and cellar (sitting room pictured) Grammer previously wanted to turn the 1million two-bed period cottage (main bedroom picture) into a more luxury modern four-bedroom home with a new kitchen diner, snug and study The cottage (dining room pictured) is one of the oldest in the area Conditions attached to the approval included that work must be carried out before 12 February 2030. The local Parish Council also objected and described the cottage as a 'historic icon' along a stretch of coastal road 'that clearly invites sensitive and proportionate updating to make it into a modest - rather than a palatial - modern home.' North Somerset Council's role was to determine whether 'prior approval' was required, or should be granted, for certain aspects of the 'permitted development'. The council said: 'The proposed demolition is unlikely to have a significant impact upon local amenity and it is concluded, therefore, that prior approval is not required with regards to the method of demolition and the restoration of the site.' The cottage and its outbuildings date back to the post medieval period and is one of the oldest houses in the area. It lies near a scheduled ancient monument - a hillfort, saucer barrow, banjo enclosure (both so-named because of their shape) and earthworks dating back to the Iron Age. Grammer and his wife Kayte met on a transatlantic flight where she was working as an air stewardess, and they were married in 2011. Last year, they sought permission to demolish all the various extensions on three sides of the historic cottage, which were largely built in the 1980s, and build a large new extension that was up to twice the size of the original building, as well as put in a new basement. That was turned down by planners who said it would 'result in a large and disproportionate enlargement of the dwelling', and would 'harm the openness of the Green Belt'. A British man has died after he fell off his electric scooter in a Costa Blanca beach town. The 59-year-old was reportedly on his way home from work in Orihuela Costa, south-eastern Spain on Tuesday when he allegedly hit a pothole while riding along Baikal Street and flew over the handlebars of his scooter. Emergency services rushed to the site of the crash, but were not able to resuscitate the Brit and pronounced him dead at the scene. Local authorities have opened an investigation to determine the exact causes of the accident. Orihuela is a popular coastal region in the province of Alicante and is known for its beautiful beaches, coves, and vibrant atmosphere, attracting both British expats and tourists. Several Orihuela residents rely on electric scooters due to the town's long distances between residential areas and popular tourist spots. The tragic accident also comes after a British-born woman and her two young daughters were killed in New York on Saturday after a car smashed into the family as they crossed the road. A 59-year-old British man has died in Spain's Costa Blanca after falling off his electric scooter He reportedly hit a pot-hole while riding home from work, which saw him fall and hit his head against the pavement. File photo: A man wearing a safety helmet rides an electric scooter Natasha Saada, 34, who grew up in Mill Hill, north London, and her daughters Diana, eight, and Deborah, five, who were members of the Orthodox Jewish community in the city, were mown down in Brooklyn as they walked home from attending synagogue, just after 1pm. All three were pronounced dead at the scene, while the family's four-year-old son was also critically injured in the crash. Motorist Miriam Yarimi, 32, who runs a wig making business, was allegedly behind the wheel of an Audi sedan which slammed into a Toyota Camry Uber vehicle moments before colliding with the family and flipping upside down amid horrific scenes on Ocean Parkway in Midwood. The NYPD told DailyMail.com on Sunday that Yarimi, of Midwood, has now been hit with a slew of charges including three counts of manslaughter in the second degree. Yarimi, who was allegedly driving with a suspended license, is additionally accused of three counts of criminally negligent homicide, four counts of assault in the second degree, reckless driving and speeding, the department said. The three were buried on Monday night in Jerusalem, Israel. It also comes after holidaymaker was killed in a horror ski accident on a private island in the Bahamas last month. The unnamed 73-year-old woman died on March 22 during her visit to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, the Royal Bahamas Police Force confirmed. Orihuela is a popular coastal region in the province of Alicante Investigators say she had been riding on a jet ski when she allegedly 'lost control' of the personal watercraft and 'collided with a rock'. Despite receiving medical assistance, she was pronounced dead at the scene by a local doctor. The incident remains under investigation by Bahamian authorities. The victim, who was a dual British-Czechoslovakia national, was a passenger on the Holland America cruiseliner Nieuw Amsterdam. Prisoners refusing to join radical Islamist gangs are being held in isolation to keep them safe from death threats and attacks. Officers are keeping vulnerable prisoners in segregation units at HMP Frankland in Co Durham to separate them from Islamic extremists, the Times reports. The prison, one of the highest-security jails in Britain, is said to have become so overrun with Islamic gangs that its 'terrorist separation centres', which were built in a bid to stop terrorists from radicalising others, have become defunct. This has caused other prisoners into isolation units as they are believed to be at risk of facing death threats or being attacked if they refuse to join the gangs. The prison has been accused of not tackling the issue due to a power struggle between radical Islamists and other inmates. Former prison governor Ian Acheson, who also served in the Home Office as the director of community safety, warned that the issue could lead to race riots inside the prison and believes it could represent a 'national security threat'. He blamed 'weak leadership at the top distracted by progressive fads' as well as officials being 'scared by allegations of racism'. Acheson added that forced isolation of vulnerable prisoners reflected the wider problem in the prison estate and warned not addressing the issue of Islamism in prisons would fuel the far-right. Officers are keeping vulnerable prisoners in segregation units at HMP Frankland in Co Durham to separate them from Islamic extremists. Pictured: an isolation cell The prison, one of the highest-security jails in Britain, is said to have become so overrun with Islamic gangs that its 'terrorist separation centres', which were built in a bid to stop terrorists from radicalising others, have become defunct This has caused other prisoners into isolation units as they are believed to be risk of facing death threats or being attacked if they refuse to join the gangs: Pictured: a wing at the prison Tony Wyatt, a leading criminal defence barrister at Christian-Wyatt Law, discovered the use of isolation units when visiting his clients at the prison. He said some prisoners are being forced to serve their sentences in 'total lockdown' due to the breakdown in order. Mr Wyatt said: 'There are so many who are members of Muslim gangs in prison, you just can't contain the problem. If the solution was to separate them - and I'm not suggesting it is - you would need entire prisons dedicated to that separation. And not just one prison, multiple prisons. That's the scale of it'. An independent report on terror legislation by Jonathan Hall KC in 2022 found that terrorists had seized control of wings and set up sharia courts in some prisons in England and Wales without prison staff intervention because they were scared of being accused of Islamophobia. Many of the 800 men locked up in Frankland are murderers, high-risk sex offenders or those convicted of terrorism-related offences. Charles Bronson, the nation's 'most dangerous prisoner', and Peter Sutcliffe, the Yorkshire Ripper, were held there. Current inmates include serial killer and rapist Levi Bellfield, who murdered 13-year-old Milly Dowler, and Michael Adebolajo, who was convicted of the brutal murder of British soldier Lee Rigby, and Wayne Couzens, who kidnapped, raped and murdered in Sarah Everard in 2021. In 2021, Sarah Everard was walking home from a friend's house in Clapham, south-west London, when she was kidnapped by Couzens, a former Metropolitan Police officer. Pictured: Former Metropolitan Police officer Wayne Couzens, who kidnapped, raped and murdered in Sarah Everard in 2021 Also inside HMP Frankland is Michael Adebolajo (pictured), who was convicted of the brutal murder of British soldier Lee Rigby evi Bellfield, who murdered 13-year-old Milly Dowler, is another prisoner behind bars at HMP Frankland Claiming she had breached Covid restrictions, he handcuffed her and drove her to countryside near his home in Kent where he raped and murdered the 33-year-old, strangling her with his police belt. Couzens - who would eventually confess to what he had done - was given a rare whole-life sentence, with the judge telling him that he had abused his position to kill. A year after Couzens was transferred to Frankland, it was reported that he had become friends with David Fuller who was dubbed the Morgue Monster for defiling the bodies of more than 100 dead women at a hospital where he worked. The most high-profile recent arrival was Urfan Sharif, 43, who is serving a life sentence for torturing and murdering his ten-year-old daughter, Sara. He was moved to the jail after being slashed with the jagged lid of a tuna tin by two inmates at a high-security prison in London and is said to fear a follow-up attack. Former British Army soldier Daniel Khalife was also reportedly moved to Frankland last month due to it being ultra-secure after he after fled Wandsworth Prison in September 2023. He is understood to received a 'hero's welcome' and was congratulated by inmates for his dramatic escape. A source told the Mirror: 'Khalife was brought and got a hell of a reception when he arrived on his wing. They were patting him on the back and treated him like a legend. It was a hero's welcome. The other prisoners were cheering and clapping. They love him because of how he escaped.' The most high-profile recent arrival was Urfan Sharif, 43, (pictured) who is serving a life sentence for torturing and murdering his ten-year-old daughter, Sara David Fuller who was dubbed the Morgue Monster for defiling the bodies of more than 100 dead women at a hospital where he worked - is also inside HMP Frankland Daniel Khalife (pictured) is understood to received a 'hero's welcome' at HMP Frankland and was congratulated by inmates for his dramatic escape from Wandsworth Prison A parliamentary report in 2023 revealed that some prisoners at the jail had been offered bounties of up to 10,000 to carry out attacks on other inmates. One took up a contract to fund his 'dependency on vapes'. Last year, an unannounced inspection found that while the establishment was rated as safer than other jails holding similar prisoners, there had been 147 assaults in the past six months, which was a third higher than in the same period before the previous inspection. Frankland is one of three jails in England and Wales that has a separation centre reserved for the most dangerously ideological prisoners. Across the three prison there are 28 places but during the last inspection by the prisons watchdog in 2022, only nine of the places were being used and the units at Full Sutton near York was closed. The Ministry of Justice told the Times it did not recognise claims that HMP Frankland prisoners were being isolated to be protected from Islamic extremists. MailOnline has approached the MoJ for comment. Recent figures published by the MoJ on Thursday revealed a 10 per cent rise in the average cost of a prison place in England and Wales from last year increasing from 52,000 to 57,000. As of March 31, prisons are operating at near full capacity, with 87,919 leaving just 1,000 spare places. The emergency use of police cells was reintroduced last month to hold prisoners as some jails in the northwest had no more room. Britain should use its post-Brexit freedoms to become 'Singapore-on-Thames' amid Donald Trump's global trade war, according to former chancellor Jeremy Hunt. The Tory MP, who ran the Treasury between 2022 and July last year, said the US President's sweeping tariffs meant it was now 'make up your mind time' for the UK. He urged the Labour Government to steer away from retaliatory measures against Mr Trump's punitive trade levies, warning this would only cause more economic harm. But Mr Hunt also demanded Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer offer a 'much clearer vision as to the type of post-Brexit economy we want to build'. The ex-Cabinet minister said Britain should not 'close up' as America and the EU were likely to do, but instead 'remain resolutely open' with 'fewer barriers' to trade. 'Britain has always flourished as one of the most open and outward facing economies in the world,' he wrote in the Telegraph. In his call for the UK to copy Singapore, Mr Hunt revived an economic idea that many Brexiteers supported following the 2016 vote to quit the EU. This foresaw Britain as a low-tax nation with lighter regulation and low tariffs, but critics warned against moving away from the European social model. Britain should use its post-Brexit freedoms to become 'Singapore-on-Thames' amid Donald Trump 's global trade war, according to former chancellor Jeremy Hunt In his call for the UK to copy Singapore, Mr Hunt revived an economic idea that many Brexiteers supported following the 2016 vote to quit the EU Donald Trump has sent global financial markets into meltdown following his announcement of 'reciprocal tariffs' on nations across the world Mr Hunt called for Labour to 'resist the siren song of protectionism' despite the likelihood of other countries also imposing tariffs in response to Mr Trump's actions. The US President has sent global financial markets into meltdown following his announcement of 'reciprocal tariffs' on nations across the world. The majority of British goods will be subject to a 10 per cent import tax, while UK car, steel and aluminium exports have been hit with a 25 per cent tariff. Mr Hunt said the Government was likely to try and 'muddle through the crisis trying to offend as few people as possible'. 'With Ukraine's future in the balance, there are sound reasons not to cause unnecessary offence to the President,' he wrote. 'But the Prime Minister's diplomacy needs to be combined with a much clearer vision as to the type of post-Brexit economy we want to build. 'Trump's trade reforms will force on ministers a succession of rapid decisions that will shape the economy for years to come. 'In order to get them right, we need to know where we are heading. 'Are we going to gradually close up as our two biggest trading partners, the US and the EU, are likely to do? Or are we going to remain resolutely open?' Your browser does not support iframes. Mr Hunt noted how financial services, technology, life sciences, creative industries and education had 'all flourished' in Britain 'because of openness to talent and ideas'. 'Far from holding us back, it has made us globally competitive, turning us into the world's second largest services exporter,' he wrote. 'If we put up fewer barriers to goods imports, there will be some short term pain as we cope with a glut of exports being redirected from the US. 'But if we hold our nerve, lower input prices and more innovation will make British factories extremely competitive. More people will want to build their factories here as a result. 'It won't be easy to resist the siren song of protectionism. But, as countries like Singapore demonstrate, openness can still deliver excellent results. 'Over the last half century, its living standards have grown five times faster than ours. 'Those who deride the idea of 'Singapore-on-Thames' fail to understand that the heart of their success has not been a harder-edged social policy but the building up of internationally competitive businesses through willingness to trade. 'But Singapore didn't invent free trade. That honour belongs to Britain. Even if others turn their backs on it, we should remember the benefits of one of our greatest gifts to the world.' An anti-abortion activist embroiled in a free speech controversy has been convicted of breaching a protected 'buffer zone' outside an abortion clinic. Livia Tossici-Bolt, 64, was found guilty at Poole Magistrates Court after holding up a sign which read 'Here to talk, if you want' near a Bournemouth abortion clinic on two days in March 2023. The retired medical scientist was convicted of twice violating the Public Spaces Protection Order outside the facility, which is run by the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (Bpas). She has been sentenced to a conditional discharge for two years for two charges of breaching a 'buffer zone' outside the abortion clinic. District Judge Orla Austin also ordered Tossici-Bolt to pay 20,000 towards court costs and a 26 victim surcharge. The case attracted the attention of the US State department and US vice president JD Vance. The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, & Labour (DRL) - which sits within the US State Department - said one of its advisors had met Ms Tossici-Bolt and was 'monitoring' her case. In a statement on X before the verdict, it said: 'It is important that the UK respect and protect freedom of expression.' Livia Tossici-Bolt, 64, was found guilty at Poole Magistrates Court after holding up a sign which read 'Here to talk, if you want' near a Bournemouth abortion clinic on two days in March 2023 During a speech at the Munich security conference in February, US vice president Vance highlighted the case of Adam Smith-Connor, who was convicted last year of breaching the same council-enacted buffer zone, suggesting it showed 'in Britain and across Europe, free speech, I fear, is in retreat'. Asked about Tossici-Bolt's conviction, a Number 10 spokesman said generally that while 'the right to protest is a cornerstone of our democracy' people don't have the right to 'harass' others. Quizzed on whether free speech still exists in Britain: 'The UK has a very proud tradition of free speech over many centuries.' The Telegraph previously quoted a source 'familiar with trade negotiations' between the UK and US as saying that there should be 'no free trade without free speech'. However, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said that free speech had not been part of tariff negotiations with the US. District Judge Austin said while she accepted Tossici-Bolt's pro-life beliefs 'were truly held' the case 'is not about the rights and wrongs about abortion but about whether the defendant was in breach of the PSPO (Public Spaces Protection Order)'. The judge added of the defendant: 'She lacks insight that her presence could have a detrimental effect on the women attending the clinic, their associates, staff and members of the public. 'I am satisfied so that I am sure that the defendant did fail without reasonable excuse to comply with a requirement of the PSPO, namely she failed to leave the safe zone on both the 2nd of March and 3rd March 2023 when asked by an authorised officer.' The judge said that the costs fee of 20,000 was a 'proportionate' contribution to the 64,709.59 requested by the prosecution which was presented by a KC and junior at the two-day magistrates' court trial. Police officers had told Tossici-Bolt to leave after a woman said she felt intimidated and harassed by her presence. She refused, claiming she was given no legitimate reason for doing so. She also rejected a fixed penalty notice that was issued to her. Tossici-Bolt has been sentenced to a conditional discharge for two years for twice breaching the 'buffer zone' outside the abortion clinic The buffer zone at Ophir Road outside the abortion clinic was put in place on October 13 2022, and is in force from 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday. Buffer zones ban protests within 150 metres of a clinic or hospital providing abortion services in England and Wales and those convicted of breaking the law could face an unlimited fine. Defending, Rosalind Comyn said: 'The council hasn't produced any evidence that Ms Tossici-Bolt was in fact either observed by any service user or any other forms of harm were caused by her behaviour. 'My point is not that breaches can never cause harm rather that there is no evidence that Ms Tossici-Bolt's conduct did in this case.' She said her client had no previous convictions. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council welcomed Tossici-Bolt's conviction, saying the buffer zone enforced in 2022 was there so patients and staff 'could safely access' the clinic 'without fear of intimidation'. A spokesman added: 'We will continue to monitor any alleged breaches of this PSPO and will take appropriate action when necessary.' Bpas chief executive Heidi Stewart said: 'Bpas welcomes today's verdict which will protect women and the staff who provide abortion care. 'The clinic in Bournemouth has been subjected to decades of anti-abortion protests which resulted in more than 500 reports of harassment before this local safe access zone was brought into force. 'This case was never about global politics but about the simple ability of women to access legal healthcare free from harassment.' The retired medical scientist said she had 'been dragged through court merely for offering consensual conversation' The ADF (Alliance Defending Freedom), an international religious campaigning organisation, has been supporting Tossici-Bolt with her case. Speaking after her conviction, Tossici-Bolt said: 'This is a dark day for Great Britain. 'I was not protesting and did not harass or obstruct anyone. 'All I did was offer consensual conversation in a public place, as is my basic right, and yet the court found me guilty. 'Freedom of expression is in a state of crisis in the UK. What has happened to this country? 'The US State Department was right to be concerned by this case as it has serious implications for the entire Western world. 'I remain committed to fighting for free speech, not only for my own sake, but for all my fellow citizens. 'If we allow this precedent of censorship to stand, nobody's right to freely express themselves is secure. 'With ADF International's support, I will now consider all legal options.' Jeremiah Igunnubole, legal counsel for ADF UK, said: 'This is the first time in UK history that someone has been convicted for offering a conversation. 'This is a fine of 20,000 for nothing more than offering a conversation. 'The idea that Livia should be selling her house is grossly disproportionate. 'The nature of the special relationship (with the USA) is that we have shared values of freedom of speech and liberty. 'The slippery slope is very clear. In a free democratic society we must consider what is true. 'I am sure there are people across the world who consider this a despicable decision. 'The message is clear. If you hold pro-life views in a public place then there will be consequences.' Christian activist who says the real fight here is for free speech Profile by Nicholas Pyke Carefully dressed, hair in a grey bob and with a small gold cross around her neck, 64-year-old Livia Tossici-Bolt might seem an unlikely choice of global cause celebre. But yesterday's verdict against the retired medical scientist at Poole Magistrates' Court may have incendiary consequences amid claims it could undermine a badly needed trade deal with America. The district judge hearing the case ruled that Dr Tossici-Bolt was guilty of breaching a public spaces protection order outside an abortion clinic in 2023. The Italian-born campaigner had twice stood inside a protective 'buffer zone' designed to stop demonstrations and protests holding a sign aimed at pregnant women reading: 'Here to talk, if you want'. She was given a conditional discharge and ordered to pay 20,000 in costs. To Dr Tossici-Bolt, however, this was no mere technical infraction but a struggle for freedom of expression in a country where Christian, conservative or merely unwelcome views are suppressed or silenced altogether. And it is a battle that has been taken up 3,500 miles away. Yesterday's verdict against the retired medical scientist at Poole Magistrates' Court may have incendiary consequences amid claims it could undermine a badly needed trade deal with America. The Trump administration has poured fierce criticism on Britain and our European neighbours for, it says, clamping down on free speech, while the US State Department is 'monitoring' the treatment of Dr Tossici-Bolt. It argues that she has every right to make her anti-abortion views known buffer zone or no buffer zone. With markets in turmoil following President Trump's punitive tariffs, it has even been suggested that the case is an issue in UK and US trade negotiations, with a source telling The Daily Telegraph that there could be 'no free trade without free speech'. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has denied the row forms any part of the ongoing discussions with Washington. Yet no one doubts the growing sensitivity both here and in America about the freedom to speak freely and cause offence if necessary with Britons routinely complaining they are unable to speak their mind for fear of censure, prosecution or the sack. Just a few days ago, a mother and father were arrested by Hertfordshire Police in front of their daughter and kept in a cell for eight hours after a primary school objected to complaints they had made on a WhatsApp group. Dr Tossici-Bolt leads the Bournemouth branch of 40 Days For Life, an international Christian organisation which arranges for volunteers to pray for women outside abortion clinics. In 2023, she lost a High Court attempt to overturn the buffer zone around the clinic. Away from her campaigning, Dr Tossici-Bolt who still speaks with a slight Italian accent maintains a relatively low profile. However, she gave an insight into her personal motives and her past in written evidence to Parliament in 2018, as Northern Ireland considered relaxing its abortion laws. She recalled finding herself pregnant in difficult circumstances. Imagine, she wrote, 'a young physicist, freshly graduated, with a temporary job, simultaneously studying for a two-year course that would open a career in medical physics, living in an accommodation offered by a friend as the family has kicked her out because [it didn't approve] of the man she loves... and she fell pregnant when they last met. Dr Tossici-Bolt leads the Bournemouth branch of 40 Days For Life, an international Christian organisation which arranges for volunteers to pray for women outside abortion clinics 'That was me some 28 years ago. Panic was only natural and, sadly, I know that such a situation would tick all the boxes in current times. 'I would have no trouble in satisfying two independent doctors that abortion would be necessary a simple tick for 'social reasons'. But what an injustice that would have been, perpetrated at the expense of an innocent human being. 'And what a loss that would have been, not only for me, but for all the people who have been touched in their lives by my wonderful daughter.' Dr Tossici-Bolt said after yesterday's ruling: 'Freedom of expression is in a state of crisis in the UK. I will now consider all legal options.' With such vigorous and well-funded support from across the Atlantic, it seems likely we can take her at her word. This is the terrifying moment a hot air balloon with a dozen tourists on board crashed in Dubai. Footage shows a Russian tourist and her mother on the balloon ride over the desert, which set off at dawn before suddenly 'tilting too much to the side and fell sharply' about 40 minutes into the flight, according to accounts from the two women. The basket hit the ground then was dragged along hitting the ground several times. 'After the impact at high speed, the basket itself rolled and hit the surface several more times,' reported Readovka news outlet. Some tourists 'were hit hard during landing and were covered by the canopy', it said. Several passengers were reportedly injured and taken to hospital, with some allegedly being 'unconscious' after the crash. The younger Russian woman is later seen in a hospital bed with a neck brace on. It is not clear what injuries she sustained. There is no independent confirmation of the details of the crash, which reportedly occurred on March 23 although footage has only now emerged on Russian Telegram channels. It is not clear what caused the problem. The company offering the hot air balloon flights said no accident occured, labelling the incident simply a 'hard landing, which is part of the event', RIA Novosti reports. Footage shows a Russian woman and her mother on the balloon ride over the desert, which set off at dawn before suddenly 'tilting too much to the side and fell sharply' about 40 minutes into the flight, according to accounts from the two women The younger Russian woman filmed herself and the desert underneath her during the hot air balloon flight The younger Russian woman is later seen in a hospital bed with a neck brace on. It is not clear what injuries she sustained Their representative acknowledged that passengers suffered minor injuries, adding that they have already been discharged from hospital. This comes after two Britons watched on in horror as a giant hot air balloon packed with tourists slammed into Turkey's famed 'Fairy Chimney' rock formations after a freak gust of wind in June last year. Rebecca Horsfall, 31, filmed the shocking moment the basket holding 20 tourists and two pilots crashed into the rocks of the Love Valley site in Cappadocia, Turkey, around 6am. 'Suddenly people were screaming and running to the edge of the valley,' Ms Horsfall, who went to a scenic lock out spot with her partner Kieran McDonnell, 30, to take pictures for social media at sunrise, told MailOnline. Ms Horsfall, from Burnley, added: 'It was incredibly scary to see the hot air balloon basket slip down the mountain side.' A gust of wind blew the giant air balloon against the rocks as pilot Caner Uzun was trying to land opposite the Love Valley, according to local media. Footage shows the balloon deflating as emergency services rush to the scene to examine the passengers. Ms Horsfall said that their drone captured footage of one of the tourists onboard, who 'was being fanned' after she appeared to have fainted. There is no independent confirmation of the details of the crash, which reportedly occurred on March 23 although footage (like above of the Russian mother and daughter) has only now emerged on Russian Telegram channels Two Britons watched on in horror as a giant hot air balloon packed with tourists slams into Turkey's famed 'Fairy Chimney' rock formations after a freak gust of wind Rebecca Horsfall, 31, filmed the shocking moment the basket holding 20 tourists and two pilots crashed into the rocks of the Love Valley site in Cappadocia, Turkey, around 6am in June 2024 None of the tourists or pilots were injured in the rock landing. 'I actually went on a balloon flight in this area two years ago, and found the whole operation very safe. I am sure this was more of a freak accident, Mrs Horsfall, who is a self-employed event planner, told MailOnline. 'It appears as though the balloon had got caught on the side of a rock. The valleys can be narrow and the pilots like to fly the balloons low for the best experience for the passengers.' One of the passengers on the balloon told local media that the pilot 'constantly gave us confidence and comfort', despite the rough landing. Ms Horsfall, who was travelling in a camper van with her partner and three dogs in Turkey at the time, said in her video: 'Well guys, we're just leaving Love Valley now and this is not what we expected to see. 'We've been in Cappadocia for a week watching the balloons rise every morning. 'Thankfully the emergency services got there quickly, looked like everyone has got out safely. I don't think there's been any major injuries. Just really shocking to see.' The local government said in a statement at the time of the accident: 'The hot air balloon in question, which took off from the Pasabaglar location at around 05.15am, made an emergency and safe hard landing during its landing within the borders of Goereme Town. 'After the emergency landing, the 20 passengers and 2 pilots in the balloon were safely evacuated by our AFAD teams, no injuries occurred, and no adverse events were detected in the health examination of the pilot and passengers in the balloon.' A former government contractor who leaked the private information of at least 85 customers to a friend, who then claimed $60,000 in fraudulent benefits, has walked free from court. Selina Saab, 25, used her position as a contractor for Service NSW to steal the confidential information from customers between July and October 2021. The government worker, from Bankstown in southwest Sydney then sent the information to her friend's boyfriend, Salim Merheb, via Snapchat. Merheb then used the information to lodge fraudulent claims for government financial relief - in the form of flood disaster and Covid-19 payments - worth $61,550. He was sentenced to three years and six months in jail in December last year after he pleaded guilty to obtaining financial advantage by deception, dealing with proceeds of crime and dealing in identification information with intent to commit an indictable offence. The NSW Court of Criminal Appeal dismissed a subsequent appeal on his behalf. Unlike Merheb, Saab was on Friday issued a two-year intensive corrections order allowing her to serve her sentence among the community. She was seen arriving at Parramatta District Court on Friday wearing a designer black pantsuit. Selina Saab pleaded guilty after using her position as a NSW government contractor to steal confidential customer information but walked free from court Ms Saab (right) will serve out her punishment in the community under a two year intensive corrections order A District Court judge accepted Saab displayed genuine remorse for her conduct and that she had been acting under Merheb's coercion. She was ordered to fulfil a mental health treatment plan and must report to a community corrections officer while completing her sentence. Merheb's former partner, Isabella Sabbouh, pleaded guilty to dealing with the proceeds and suspected proceeds of indictable crime in October last year. Agreed facts stated Sabbouh had received $48,109.67 in bank deposits from Merheb between April and November 2021. This included 22 deposits worth a total $14,280.07 a portion of which, court documents seen by The Daily Telegraph state, came from the false claims for government payments filed by Merheb. Police did not allege Sabbouh had been involved in lodging the fraudulent claims. Anthony Fauci's wife has stepped down from her job after being told she'd have to swap Washington DC for remote locations like Alaska. Christine Grady, who until this week served as the head of the National Institutes of Health Clinical Centers bioethics department, was part of mass layoffs at the HHS this week. She was reportedly notified that she would be reassigned to regional offices of the Indian Health Service, which provides healthcare to American Indians and Alaska Natives, per the Washington Times. Grady was reportedly given until Wednesday to make her decision and ultimately stood down. Some conservative social media users claimed it was a satisfying example of karma, after Grady called for nurses who did not receive COVID vaccines to be fired. 'During the pandemic, Fauci's bioethicist wife, Christine Grady, offered nurses a choice: Get vaccinated, or lose your job,' one X user said. 'Yesterday, she was offered a choice: Transfer to an office in Alaska, or lose your job. What's fair is fair. Everyone deserves a choice.' Grady was followed out the door at the HHS this week by officials including Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and top researchers tied to Grady's husband Dr Anthony Fauci. The layoffs impacted a total of 10,000 people this week, with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. saying he plans to cut the workforce by 20,000, although incrementally with half of those coming from early retirements and voluntary buyouts. Christine Grady, the wife of Anthony Fauci who until this week served as the head of the National Institutes of Health Clinical Centers bioethics department, has been told she has a choice between relocating to Alaska or leaving her long career in medicine behind Grady was reportedly given until Wednesday to make her decision, with some on social media seen celebrating her predicament as ironic, particularly due to her past support for vaccine mandates in employment Grady found herself in the firing line this week as Kennedy carried out his huge purge on the nation's health department. At least three of Fauci's longtime colleagues at the National Institutes of Health were also axed, according to Politico, as insiders said it appeared animosity toward Fauci and the Biden administration motivated the move. Fauci had previously ran the NIHs National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases during the Biden administration, and instated numerous unpopular policies including vaccine mandates and closing schools as he led the nation's response to the Covid-19 pandemic. As news of Grady's firing emerged this week, a clip of her resurfaced where she declared her support for laying off nurses if they refuse the vaccine. 'In the end, if people decide not to get vaccinated, that is their choice, even if they are a nurse - they may not be able to work in the facility that they've been working in, but they've made a choice,' she said in the clip. The layoffs this week effectively gutted the NIH's infectious disease office, and as Dr. Eric Topol, a public health expert and director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute put it, 'It's like a Fauci fixation.' 'So many of these people are just dedicated, they really want to do good and now theyre losing their jobs senselessly,' he said. Grady was not alone in being told to accept reassignment to far off posts or leave the government entirely, with Marrazzo also reportedly given the same offer. Insiders told Politico that Kennedy personally signed off on firing Grady, with others including Clifford Lane, NIAID deputy director, and infectious diseases director Emily Erbelding also losing their jobs. As news of Grady's firing emerged this week, a clip of her resurfaced where she declared her support for laying off nurses if they refuse the vaccine Grady was a longtime leader at the NIH, while Fauci had previously ran the NIHs National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases during the Biden administration Grady was targeted in mass layoffs this week carried out by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who reportedly signed off on her firing personally Kennedy announced the layoffs this week in an X post, describing them as a 'difficult moment' that had to happen in his efforts to remake the nation's health department. 'The reality is clear: what weve been doing isnt working,' he wrote. 'Despite spending $1.9 trillion in annual costs, Americans are getting sicker every year. In the past four years alone, the agencys budget has grown by 38% yet outcomes continue to decline. 'We must shift course. HHS needs to be recalibrated to emphasize prevention, not just sick care. These changes will not affect Medicare, Medicaid, or other essential health services. 'This overhaul is about realigning HHS with its core mission: to stop the chronic disease epidemic and Make America Healthy Again. Its a win-win for taxpayers, and for every American we serve.' In a move inspired by President Trump and Musk's war on government waste, the size of HHS is being cut by nearly a quarter, bringing it from 82,000 down to a total of 62,000. Most of the gutting will be at the Food and Drug Administration with 3,500 being fired. The FDA is responsible for inspecting, setting and regulating safety standards for food, medications and medical devices in the U.S. And the second largest number of cuts are being made at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where 2,400 are facing the ax. Firings ensued at the Department of Health and Human Services Tuesday morning with staffers hugging and shedding tears after receiving notice of dismissal Meanwhile, another 1,200 jobs are being slashed at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and 300 from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, according to a breakdown of the cuts published on Thursday. HHS has vowed that no one receiving Medicare or Medicaid benefits will be impacted by the job cuts. In a six-minute video posted to X last week, Kennedy says he will reduce the number of HHS divisions to 15 from the current 28 and reduce the number of regional offices from 10 to five. 'We're going to do more with less,' he vowed. 'No American is going to be left behind.' 'We're going to consolidate all of these departments and make them accountable to you, the American taxpayer and the American patient.' An HHS press release on the job cuts claims the measure will save the department $1.8 billion annually. An exotic animal owner is demanding to regain custody of several tigers seized from his property that he claims are his 'emotional support animals.' The wild animals were snatched from Karl Mitchell's home in Pahrump, Nevada - about an hour outside of Las Vegas - around 7 am on Wednesday morning, according to the Nye County Sheriff's Office. 'This is our whole life... my whole life,' he told FOX5 after his release. Upon his release from the Nye County Detention Center, Mitchell, 71, reunited with his fiancee, Catherine Griffiths, who shared their frustration and grief with FOX5 over the loss of their tigers. Griffiths gave FOX5 video footage of deputies arriving at their home before their seven tigers were taken. She described the emotional distress she felt during the raid, which led Mitchell to comfort her in an effort to prevent a seizure. 'She has epilepsy, and I was trying to keep her from having a seizure,' he said, adding that this was misconstrued as him resisting arrest. Adding to their account, Griffiths drew attention to a mark on Mitchell's head, alleging that deputies had forcibly restrained him during the incident. Mitchell suggested the situation was driven by animal rights activists, specifically those against private ownership of exotic animals. Exotic animal owner Karl Mitchell is demanding to regain custody of several tigers seized from his property Mitchell suggested the situation was driven by animal rights activists, specifically those against private ownership of exotic animals Mitchell stated they were prescribed emotional support animals 'This happened because animal rights people in this country like Carol Baskin have made it nearly impossible for people like me to own animals,' he said. 'They just hate me.' Defending his possession of the tigers, Mitchell stated they were prescribed emotional support animals and offered FOX5 a letter as evidence. The letter, dated 2024 and from his Veterans Affairs doctor, confirmed that he had been prescribed an emotional support animal, specifically his tigers. Nye County officials asserted that he was not legally permitted to keep them due to a lack of required permits. The county confirmed the absence of a current Conditional Use Permit and a Title 6 permit for 'Special Conditions Animals,' emphasizing that local regulations supersede any emotional support animal designation. Mitchell, however, stood by his claim of legal entitlement. 'Yes, all seven of them are emotional support animals,' he insisted. 'I have the right to have them. I could have 70 if I wanted.' The already tense situation escalated when Griffiths was briefly detained after attempting to record officials administering ketamine to one of her tigers. The already tense situation escalated when Griffiths was briefly detained after attempting to record officials administering ketamine to one of her tigers Defending his possession of the tigers, Mitchell stated they were prescribed emotional support animals and offered FOX5 a letter as evidence Mitchell maintained his resolve to bring his tigers back to Nye County despite their relocation to a sanctuary in Arkansas 'These people have no compassion,' Mitchell said. However, Nye County Sheriff Joe McGill told FOX5 a different story, stating they had reports of Mitchell threatening to release the tigers if authorities intervened, which Mitchell denied outright. His main concern, he said, was the Tiger's safety. 'Those tigers are my babies,' he said. 'I wouldn't do anything that would get them shot.' Despite their relocation to a sanctuary in Arkansas, Mitchell maintained his resolve to bring them back to Nye County. 'This story isn't over,' he said. A Nye County veterinarian found the tigers in good condition but had concerns about their living environment, a point Mitchell disputed, stating his animals were always well looked after. Mitchell has long been involved in several legal battles related to the ownership of his tigers. Nye County officials asserted that he was not legally permitted to keep them due to a lack of required permits The exotic cats are being examined by a vet and are set to be sedated (Pictured: One of the tigers laying down in a cage) Their conditions 'seemed good but there were some concerns about the living conditions,' a spokesperson with the sheriff's office told the DailyMail.com Mitchell has long been involved in several legal battles related to the ownership of his tigers. He was also cited dozens of times for violating basic animal care standards He has also been cited dozens of times for violating basic animal care standards. His license for the animals was previously revoked by the federal government, but in 2019, he won an appeal with the Nye County Commission to keep 10 exotic cats at his Pahrump ranch legally after claiming they were 'therapy animals,' Animals 24-7 reported. During a dispute over the ownership of his tigers in 2015, Mitchell said the judge who ruled against him keeping them, was driven by 'racial hatred,' according to Pahrump Valley Times. Mitchell, who is black, previously said: 'I'm not disappointed, I expected it. She's afraid of controversy. She claims to read everything, but if she read everything, she wouldn't have made the decision that she made.' 'Racial hatred and animus is behind all of this. I've been trying to be a good man, but I'm continually picked at and probed. 'People need to understand that there are four other facilities in town that are not required to have conditional use permits. There's one facility one mile from here and they have cats but they are not required to have a conditional use permit.' Mitchell is an 'animal trainer and expert' at Big Cat Encounters, according to the company's website. The DailyMail.com previously reached out to Mitchell for comment but did not immediately hear back. President Donald Trump tore into Jerome Powell as the Chair of the Federal Reserve made a dire warning that tariffs will turbocharge inflation and joblessness. In a dismal forecast Powell said: 'We face a highly uncertain outlook with elevated risks of both higher unemployment and higher inflation.' Trump wrote on social media: 'Cut interest rates, Jerome, and stop playing politics!' It came as the odds of a U.S. recession this year skyrocketed above 60 percent, according to the prediction market Kalshi. Trump's press secretary Karoline Leavitt said: 'To anyone on Wall Street this morning, I would say trust in President Trump.' Meanwhile, China is retaliating against the United States in a sign of trade war escalation. Follow along with DailyMail.com's live blog: A mother and her eight-year-old son found shot in their family home have both died in a tragic mystery that has devastated a Utah community. Police discovered the gruesome scene on the morning of March 28 when they found Jessica Lyman, 44, and son, Eli Painter, 8, with life-threatening gunshot wounds at their home in Saratoga Springs, about 35 miles south of Salt Lake City. A week later and police are no closer to revealing the circumstances around the 'incident,' but a public information officer for Saratoga Springs told DailyMail.com that authorities are making progress on the case and working to hold someone 'accountable.' Lyman's 17-year-old daughter made the 911 call after coming home to two unconscious and covered in blood. Lyman's third child, a 15-year-old boy, was also in the home at the time of the shooting, but was in his bedroom and wasn't injured. Paramedics pronounced Eli dead at the scene and Lyman was flown to a local hospital in critical condition, according to Saratoga Springs Chief of Police Andrew Burton. Three days later, Lyman succumbed to her injuries and died at the hospital. Her obituary said she died 'surrounded by family.' Police officers have opened an investigation into their deaths, sealing off the home as a crime scene and interviewing family members. Utah mom, Jessica Lyman, 44, was found with gunshot wounds in her home and was later pronounced dead at the hospital Lyman's son, Eli Painter, 8, was found with gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene when emergency services arrived Lyman's two teenage kids were in the home during the shooting and her daughter called 911 to report the incident Assistant Police Chief Bill Robertson told reporters at a press conference that authorities were treating 'everybody' as a suspect. Robertson added that police weren't concerned for the public's safety and were still attempting to 'piece together' the incident. The two teenagers had a different father than their younger brother and police said they were with him after Lyman's death. The shocking deaths rocked the community of Saratoga Springs, with Lyman's neighbor Sage Bronson telling local CBS affiliate, KUTV, that she was 'devastated' for the two teens in the home. Another neighbor, Dallas Clements, told KUTV that police dogs have been to the area since the incident. He added that he didn't hear gunshots on the morning of their deaths, but saw the two teens emerging from the home crying and screaming. 'No one knows what to think,' Clements admitted. Funeral services were arranged for Lyman and Eli, and Eli's elementary school is holding a memorial balloon launch for him on Saturday. 'He was a bright light in the lives of all who knew him. His adventurous spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and tender heart left an unforgettable mark on his family and friends,' Eli's obituary read. Police responded to the 911 call on the morning of March 28 and found the mother and son in the home with gunshot wounds Authorities are still investigating what led to the deaths of Lyman and her son as their home was blocked off as a crime scene Eli was remembered in his obituary as having an 'adventurous spirit' and 'infectious enthusiasm' Lyman's obituary said that she was a devoted mother to her three children and was their 'greatest champion' Eli was described as 'full of adventure,' and a Spider-Man fan with a 'boundless curiosity.' Lyman's obituary said that she was a graduate of Brigham Young University and a devoted mother to her three children. 'She was their greatest champion, always cheering them on and fiercely advocating for them. She worked tirelessly to create a home filled with love, laughter, and warmth, ensuring they always felt supported and cherished,' her obituary read. Police have not released additional information on the case or what led to the mother and son's deaths. A shoplifting family who travelled the country stealing 857 trollies of goods worth 130,000 handed themselves in after police issued an ultimatum. For two years, the organised criminal gang toured Tesco supermarkets from Suffolk to Somerset, Surrey and Cornwall brazenly walking out each time after filling as many as ten trollies to the brim. The nationwide shoplifting spree might have continued but for a diligent police officer who noticed similarities in 86 thefts across 13 police force areas. He tracked down a family of two sisters and a daughter, working with three other shoplifters and issued an ultimatum to the gang- hand yourselves in within two weeks or face arrest. The threat worked, with a lawyer contacting the force within days offering to arrange police interviews for the six. This week the final members of gang were finally brought to justice, with the ringleaders receiving three years in prison. Police estimated that the gang had gotten away with at least 130,000 worth of stolen goods between January 2022 and February 2024. From the 55 trolleys that the gang were stopped from taking, police were able to calculate the average value of stolen goods at 628. CCTV footage captured the raiders grabbing everything from toilet roll and nappies to alcohol and cleaning products from the shelves, before strolling out with no attempt to pay, and immediately returning to fill up another trolley load. Jason Raven was jailed for three years James Mytum was jailed for three years PC Ben Marshall from Surrey Police discovered that the gang were selling on the goods at cut-down rates in their very own criminal supermarket chain after he investigated a theft from a store in Guildford. He worked out that the gang would deliberately travel significant distances between offences, hoping that the forces would not realise the 86 thefts were linked. For two years the officer methodically gathered evidence, examining CCTV to identify the six thieves, who were all living in Essex. PC Marshall was worried about the odds of being able to arrest all six at once, so he decided instead to send them an ultimatum letter to say they were under investigation, offering a two-week window to come in voluntarily or face arrest. PC Marshall then travelled to Essex, conducting back-to-back interviews over the course of one 17-hour-shift which led to all six being charged with conspiracy to commit theft. As a result, Jason Raven, 50, was jailed for three years after stealing 188 trollies filled with 94,539 worth of goods. James Mytum, 41, also received three years for taking 143 trollies filled with 71,910 worth of goods. Tania Patmore, 52, who took 231 trollies worth 116,163, her younger sister Nicola Patmore, 50, who stole 152 trollies worth 76,436, and daughter Marlie Patmore, 29, who swiped 27 trollies with a value of 13,576 were spared jail. Tania and Nicola were handed two-year suspended sentences, while Marlie received a 20-month suspended sentence. A sixth member of the gang, Samantha Drum, who took 116 trollies worth 58,332 also received a two-year suspended sentence. Marlie Patmore received a suspended sentence Tania Patmore and her relative Marlie Patmore were handed suspended sentences Judge Robert Fraser told the defendants: 'It might not be the most sophisticated crime but it was remarkably bare-faced. 'The shoplifting at the level you were involved in caused very significant losses to the retailers affected and inevitably the costs are passed on to consumers.' Yesterday PC Marshall said: I am incredibly pleased that these individuals have now been held to account for years of deliberate and targeted offending. I knew I had something when I linked the first few similar offences, but I had no idea at the start of this how far and wide this simple shoplifting case in Guildford would eventually go. These criminals assumed they could hide the breadth of their offending by travelling far and wide across the south of England - but they were wrong. Their sentences will have a significant impact on reducing their propensity and their ability to re-offend. Hannah Galloway from Tesco Security Hub thanked the diligent officer: Thanks to the incredible support from Surrey Police during this investigation, these offenders who were targeting our stores up and down the country are no longer. This has made our stores safer for our customers, colleagues and communities in general. Actor and comedian Russell Brand was today charged with rape, indecent assault, oral rape and two counts of sexual assault against four women. Detectives began an investigation after 50-year-old Brand was accused of rape, sexual assaults and emotional abuse by several women in a joint investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4 Dispatches in September 2023. The Metropolitan Police have now charged Brand - who lives in Florida - by post with one count each of rape, indecent assault and oral rape, as well as two counts of sexual assault, relating to four different women, and issued a court summons. Brand has previously denied the accusations, and said all his sexual relationships were 'absolutely always consensual'. The alleged incidents took place between 1999 and 2005, and Brand is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on May 2. He is charged with the rape of a woman in 1999 in the Bournemouth area and the oral rape and sexual assault of a woman in 2004 in the Westminster area of London. Essex-born Brand was also charged with indecently assaulting a woman in 2001 and sexually assaulting another woman between 2004 and 2005. Both offences are alleged to have taken place in Westminster. The star was married to pop singer Katy Perry from 2010 to 2012 - then in 2017 wed Laura Gallacher, the sister of presenter Kirsty, and the pair have three children. Brand, who presented a BBC Radio 2 show between 2006 and 2008, left the role after his on-air prank, now known as Sachsgate, when he left a 'lewd' voicemail for Fawlty Towers actor Andrew Sachs about his granddaughter. He also presented on Big Brother spin-off shows Big Brother's Big Mouth and Big Brother: Celebrity Hijack. Russell Brand, pictured in London in October 2017, has been charged with rape Russell Brand (right) attended a record reveal party for prominent Christian worship singer Brandon Lake (left) in Charleston, South Carolina, on Wednesday Brand said at the event in South Carolina on Wednesday: 'I don't think it's very easy to live in a commercial space, to be an entertainer, and remain aligned with the Lord' Brand married US pop singer Katy Perry from 2010 (pictured that year) but they split in 2012 On Wednesday, Brand attended a record reveal party for prominent Christian worship singer Brandon Lake in Charleston, South Carolina. Appearing on stage together, Brand told Lake that he was 'so honoured' to be there and the 'palpable presence of the Lord is a glory to behold'. Brand added: 'Man, I really admire you because I don't think it's very easy to live in a commercial space, to be an entertainer, and remain aligned with the Lord. 'It seems like a place that's fraught with temptation and spiritual warfare and I think that all of us - particularly someone like me who has come to Christ very recently I can feel that there is a lot of change and a lot of transformation and I feel blessed to be in a community of people that are able to hold this incredible amount of change.' Today, Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy said: 'The women who have made reports continue to receive support from specially trained officers. 'The Met's investigation remains open and detectives ask anyone who has been affected by this case, or anyone who has any information, to come forward and speak with police. A dedicated team of investigators is available via email at CIT@met.police.uk. 'Support is also available by contacting the independent charity, Rape Crisis at 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line.' Brand is now married to Laura Gallacher, sister of presenter Kirsty. They are pictured in 2018 Russell Brand is seen during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in July 2024 Jaswant Narwal of the Crown Prosecution Service said: 'We have today authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Russell Brand with a number of sexual offences. 'We carefully reviewed the evidence after a police investigation into allegations made following the broadcast of a Channel 4 documentary in September 2023. 'We have concluded that Russell Brand should be charged with offences including rape, sexual assault and indecent assault. These relate to reported non-recent offences between 1999 and 2005, involving four women. 'He will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court for a first hearing on Friday 2 May 2025. The Crown Prosecution Service reminds everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial. 'It is extremely important that there be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.' In November 2024, the CPS confirmed that detectives from the Metropolitan Police had passed on an evidence file regarding sex offence allegations against Brand. The actor has previously denied wrongdoing and stated that all his sexual relationships were 'absolutely always consensual'. At the time of the alleged offences, Brand was at the height of his stardom, working for BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4 as well as appearing in Hollywood films. Russell Brand on stage at the Bitcoin Conference at Music City Center in Nashville in July 2024 Brand rose to fame with his stand-up performances, making his Edinburgh Festival debut in 2000 before achieving prominence as host of Big Brother's spin-off show Big Mouth from 2004 for three years. However, in 2008, he and presenter Jonathan Ross were at the centre of a furore after leaving a series of lewd messages during a prank on BBC Radio 2 on the answerphone of Fawlty Towers actor Andrew Sachs, who died in 2016. The pre-recorded show caused uproar, prompting Brand and the controller of Radio 2 to quit, Ross to be suspended from broadcasting for three months and a shake-up in the way BBC output was vetted. Ofcom later fined the BBC 150,000 over the phone calls, describing them as 'gratuitously offensive, humiliating and demeaning'. During an interview for BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs in 2013, Brand claimed the scandal, later named Sachsgate, had erupted because he had become caught up in an anti-BBC 'agenda'. He reiterated his apology for the upset the incident caused, but suggested it was a 'dishonest scandal' because it was hijacked by those motivated by a bias against the corporation. Brand's career in the US soared following the Sachsgate scandal, starring in a number of major Hollywood films including Forgetting Sarah Marshall opposite Kristen Bell, and Get Him To The Greek with Jonah Hill, both in which he plays the same anarchic British rock star Aldous Snow. Russell Brand in Los Angeles in June 2019 He also starred in the re-make of the Dudley Moore comedy Arthur alongside Dame Helen Mirren, Jennifer Garner and Greta Gerwig, the boozy tale of a wayward playboy. During this time, Brand met US pop star Katy Perry at the MTV Video Music Awards in September 2009 and after enjoying a whirlwind romance, Brand proposed outside the Taj Mahal in India two months later. The couple were married at a lavish ceremony conducted by a friend of the bride's family at the Aman-e-Khas luxury resort outside the Ranthambore tiger sanctuary in India in October 2010. Rumours of cracks in their relationship began to circulate when the pair were pictured spending Christmas apart, and 14 months after the ceremony Brand announced the couple had split. At the time, Brand said: 'Sadly, Katy and I are ending our marriage. I'll always adore her and I know we'll remain friends.' In 2015, Brand hit the headlines once again for urging people to vote Labour after repeatedly saying they should not vote. Russell Brand at a book launch at Barnes & Noble Union Square in New York in October 2017 He later said in an interview with NME: 'My opinion on voting is evolving,' while warning that 'the end of democracy' could be near. Brand also sparked controversy on Comic Relief in 2017 by saying 'f****** hell' live on air following a technical glitch. Despite no longer being a prominent figure in mainstream film, television or radio, Brand turned to online platforms and has embraced an anti-establishment narrative in recent years. Brand's following current stands at 6.8million subscribers on YouTube, 11.3million followers on X and 4.8million followers on Instagram. During the pandemic he regularly covered topics such as alleged misinformation surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic and being an outspoken sceptic of the vaccine. In recent months Brand has talked about his newfound Christian faith, and he was baptised in the River Thames by TV adventurer Bear Grylls in April last year. In February it was revealed he had moved from his Oxfordshire home to the US, and he is thought to have settled in Florida. A shortage of a popular item at Tesco is leaving shelves bare and shoppers are furious about it. A supply issue has been impacting the major supermarket and shoppers are not able to get any tinned beans. The ones affected included butter, borlotti, black and chickpeas. The issue is impacting shoppers with many of them noticing the bare shelves. A supply issue has been impacting Tesco and shoppers are not able to get any tinned beans Chickpeas are among the tinned beans which customers have noticed the supermarket is lacking on its shelves This has led to some coming out and mentioning the issue on social media which has forced Tesco to apologise for the inconvenience caused. One user, called Leah Luna said on X: 'Why is no one talking about the fact there is a bean shortage in@Tesco ??? I want ma beans'. Another user, Glenn Smith asked the supermarket: '@Tesco whats happening to your range of own brand tinned beans. Nothing is in stock and for the last few weeks?' Another one said: '@Tesco how come your Lisburn store doesnt have any tinned beans? Like kidney or black etc??' The supermarket giant has told MailOnline it is experiencing some temporary availability issues on a small number of its own brand bean lines. It pointed out though that brand baked beans in tomato sauce are unaffected by this. Butter and Borlotti beans are exported by the US, as well as Italy for the latter while black beans primarily come from Brazil followed by the States as well and Argentina. Chickpeas though primarily come from India, with the country being the largest global supplier as well as Canada and Australia. Iranian authorities are preparing to chop off the fingers from the hands of three men convicted of robbery as part of their horrific punishment. Hadi Rostami, Mehdi Sharfian and Mehdi Shahivand, who are being held in Urumieh Central prison, West Azerbaijan province, are waiting to undergo the 'cruel and irreversible' punishment of finger amputation as early as April 11, human rights organisation Amnesty International said today. All three men were arrested in August 2017 and convicted of robbery in 2019 after a 'grossly unfair trial', in which the court sentenced them to have four fingers on their right hands completely cut off. The men were reportedly denied access to lawyers and courts relied on forced 'confessions', which saw all three get beaten, kicked and flogged. Rostami's hand was broken and interrogators threatened to rape Shahivand to get confessions out of them, which they have since retracted. Since getting the gruesome sentence, all three have gone on multiple hunger strikes in prison to protest the inhumane conditions they have been subjected to, as well as their conviction. In February 2021, Rostami was further tortured after Iranian authorities carried out a flogging sentence of 60 lashes for 'disrupting prison order' after he went on hunger strike. He has also attempted suicide several times, Amnesty said. Iranian authorities are preparing to amputate the fingers of three prisoners convicted of theft. File image: Authorities carry out the court-ordered amputation of the fingers of a convicted thief in a public square in the southern Iranian city of Shiraz, Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013 Archive image shows a blindfolded prisoner having his fingers amputated by a guillotine machine. Finger amputation is allowed under the Islamic Republic's penal code but is widely condemned by human rights activists Following Iran's latest threats to hack the men's finger off, Rostami wrote a letter from prison pleading for help from the international community. 'I call upon human rights organisations, the United Nations, and the international community to take urgent action to prevent the implementation of this inhumane sentence', he wrote. In November 2024, the trio also wrote a letter describing their mental anguish and the 'constant nightmare' of awaiting their mutilations. 'We have been unable to sleep or eat, anxiously awaiting the enforcement of our own sentencesThis nightmare must end so that we can find a way back to life', they wrote. The brutal punishment of finger amputation is allowed under the Islamic Republic's penal code but is widely condemned as abhorrent and illegal by human rights activists. Amnesty's Middle East and North Africa Deputy Director Sarah Hashash said in a statement today: 'Amputation constitutes torture, which is a crime under international law and is a flagrant and abhorrent assault on human dignity. 'We call on the Iranian authorities to immediately halt all plans to carry out these cruel and inhuman sentences and abolish all forms of corporal punishment in law and practice.' She also described the 'waking nightmare' the men have endured for nearly a decade having had to live with mental torture that the authorities could at any moment mutilate their bodies. It comes amid concerns over the surge in the number of executions in Iran in recent months A man protests against executions in Iran in December 2022 Some 800 portraits displayed in Paris in 2019 to commemorate the executions of thousands of Iranian 'The planned amputations, based on 'confessions' obtained under torture and following grossly unfair trials, are a chilling reminder of the Iranian authorities' readiness to inflict irreversible suffering and that Iran's judicial system is a vital cog in the machinery of torture', she added. Hashash also warned that Iranian authorities are 'liable to face criminal prosecution under international law'. Finger amputations are permitted in the Islamic Republic under its Sharia law. When such sentences are carried out, four fingers of the right hand are cut off so only the palm of the hand and thumb is left. According to the US-based Abdorrahman Boroumand Centre, Iranian authorities have amputated the fingers of at least 131 men since January 2000. Back in October, Iranian authorities amputated fingers from the hands of two men convicted of theft. The two brothers of Kurdish origin each had four fingers on their right hands amputated by a guillotine machine at the prison in the city of Urmia in northwest Iran, according to reports. They were then transferred to hospital for medical care, the reports added. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) said Shahab and Mehrdad Teimouri were initially arrested in 2019 on theft charges and sentenced to imprisonment and finger amputation. It comes amid growing concerns over the surge in the number of executions in Iran in recent months. These included the hanging of German national of Iranian origin Jamshid Sharmahd back in October. His family says he was abducted by Iranian forces while in the United Arab Emirates in 2020. According to another Norway-based NGO, Iran Human Rights, Iran has executed 633 people this year alone. Activists accuse the authorities of using capital punishment as a way of instilling fear throughout society. Progressive 'Squad' leader Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has just received amazing news should she plan on running for the U.S. Senate. A shocking new poll has just found that the young progressive icon has loads more support among likely Democratic voters in New York than longtime Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Schumer, 74, has been sinking in popularity among Democrats since joining forces with Republicans to vote for a funding measure earlier this year. Had Schumer and some Democrats not backed the bill the government almost certainly would've shut down, leading to a new batch of headaches for the lawmaker who has served New York in the Senate since 1999. But many Democrats, mainly progressives like AOC, called on Schumer to play hardball with the GOP. The 'Squad' leader and many in the party wanted the Senate minority leader to vote against the funding and force a shutdown in Donald Trump's first 100 days, but Schumer backed off. Now, a new survey from liberal pollster Data for Progress is showing that Schumer may have made the wrong decision should he want to keep his job. The results found that Ocasio-Cortez, 35, is leading the veteran senator by almost 20 points in a hypothetical head-to-head matchup should they both run in the 2028 New York Senate primary. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has the backing of likely Democratic voters in a new poll that shows her leading Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., in a hypothetical 2028 New York senate primary matchup AOC smiles after speaking during a stop of her and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., 'Fighting Oligarchy' tour on March 21, 2025, in Denver. The tour has brought her and Sanders to cities across the U.S. to push back on Republican priorities The poll found of the 770 likely Democratic voters that 55 percent of voters would support Ocasio-Cortez, 35, in a head-to-head match up in the 2028 New York primary. Schumer, meanwhile, received a paltry 36 percent. Nine percent were undecided. The young progressive also raked in a much higher favorability rating, according to the poll. AOC received a net +59 favorability while Schumer registered a +26 favorability rating. According to the survey results, likely Democratic voters see AOC twice as favorably. The only Democrats who received higher favorability marks than AOC were Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., former VP Kamala Harris and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass. Schumer was the lawmaker who received the most unfavorable results. Still, Schumer has already filed paperwork to seek reelection. Schumer's favorability is the lowest out of any major Democrat, according to the most recent poll from Data for Progress Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez during their nationwide tour The pair of progressives are some of the most popular lawmakers in the Democratic party AOC, meanwhile, has yet to announce her intentions to run for Senate in three years. Though that has not stopped the 35-year-old progressive from raising her national profile. Ocasio-Cortez recently teamed up with Sanders on a nationwide tour touting the progressive agenda. Their 'Fighting Oligarchy' tour had stops in Colorado and Arizona and over 85,000 attended these rallies. Thank you Tucson and the more than 23,000 people who came out to see me, and [AOC],' Sanders posted on X at the end of March. 'In just 5 events, we had over 86,000 join us to stand up to authoritarianism & oligarchy and stop any bill that slashes Medicaid to give billionaires even more tax breaks.' A former doctor who trafficked a 'breathtaking' amount of prescription medication to bikie gang members has been jailed. John Robert Ullman, 57, pleaded guilty on Friday in Queensland Supreme Court to one count of drug trafficking and nine counts of drug supply. Justice Rebecca Treston heard Ullman used his clinic in Brisbane as a front to illegally sell the anti-anxiety drug benzodiazepine and steroids. Crown prosecutor Sam Sherrie said Ullman sold drugs on 76 occasions to 31 people over nearly three years to September 2020, including to members of the Comanchero bikie gang. 'He often charged a consultation fee in addition to his mark-up on the price of the drugs,' Mr Sherrie said. Ullman would supply the drugs in his office in amounts that required a garbage bag. Justice Treston said Ullman made up to $1.52 million in revenue from his drug trafficking. 'The sum is indicative of the breathtaking amount of drugs you supplied,' she said. John Robert Ullman (centre) arrives at Brisbane Supreme Court over syphoning off 'garbage bags' worth of benzos and steroids to bikies Justice Treston said one of Ullman's customers was arrested while leaving the clinic with 2500 tablets. Ullman became the biggest customer for certain drugs at legitimate wholesalers, ordering more than pharmacies and hospitals. 'He purchased 1567 units of Valium, which represented roughly 26 per cent of that company's total sales of that drug,' Mr Sherrie said. Ullman, a hormone balancing specialist, was suspended as a medical practitioner after his arrest. Justice Treston heard his registration was restored but with so many conditions imposed it made him unemployable. Mr Sherrie submitted to Justice Treston Ullman be sentenced to eight to 10 years' imprisonment. Ulman's barrister Jeffrey Hunter said the prosecution had overstated the seriousness of his client's offending and benzodiazepine abuse caused an 'order of magnitude' less social harm than methamphetamines. 'We reject that this offending was sophisticated. Much evidence was obtained from a camera above the front door of his office,' Mr Hunter said. Mr Hunter said Ullman had naively entered into business with a bikie gang and became 'entangled'. Some of his customers were members of the Comanchero bikie gang (file image) 'He arrived at work and one or more of these people would be waiting for him,' Mr Hunter said. 'On one occasion a former patient placed a handgun on the desk while they were speaking.' Justice Treston said Ullman committed serious offences and a significant breach of the trust placed in him. 'Your position as a doctor is probably the most significant aggravating factor,' she said. 'As a doctor must have understood the harm affected on society at large by the supply of dangerous drugs yet you persisted.' Justice Treston said Ullman was now working as a labourer and earning a fraction of his previous income. 'The loss of your relationship with your family is the greatest punishment you have suffered,' she said. Justice Treston accepted Ullman had worked towards his rehabilitation while on bail and there was no real risk he would reoffend. Ullman was sentenced to six-and-a-half years' imprisonment and will be eligible for release on parole from July 5, 2028. The Taliban is investigating an Afghan man's claim that he is 140 years old - which would make him the oldest person ever to have lived. Aqel Nazir, who lives in the country's eastern Khost province, says he was born in the 1880s. He claims to remember celebrating the end of the Third Anglo-Afghan War in 1919 alongside King Amanullah Khan, the Afghan leader who launched a campaign against the British, while in his thirties. Nazir, who lives in the picturesque hills in Khost, said: 'I was in the palace with King Amanullah Khan. 'I was over 30 at the time and I remember saying that the British had fled and knelt down. 'Everyone was happy and thanked King Amanullah Khan for chasing the British away. 'Many leaders accompanied us to the Arg [presidential palace], but now all of them have passed away.' The great-great grandfather does not have any documents to support his claim, but his family are also on board with gaining official recognition of his status. Aqel Nazir, who lives in the country's eastern Khost province, says he was born in the 1880s The ruling Taliban administration has dispatched a a special civil registration team to assess his true age Khyal Wazir, his 50-year-old grandson, said: 'He is my grandfather, and I have my grandchildren as well.' Another grandson, Abdul Hakim Sabari, said: 'We request the government confirm our grandfather's age using an ID or any other scientific method or documents, to prove he is 140 years old.' In an attempt to solve the mystery, the ruling Taliban administration has dispatched a special civil registration team to assess his true age. Mustaghfar Gurbaz, a Taliban spokesman for the province, said: 'If confirmed by documents or assessments, we will work to register him as the oldest person in the world.' If verified, he would comfortably take the title of the oldest person to have ever lived. That record is held by Jeanne Calment, who was born in 1875 and passed away in 1997, 122 years later. The world's current verified oldest living person is Inah Canabarro Lucas, a Brazilian nun who turned 116 last June. Another Brazilian woman, Deolira Gliceria Pedro da Silva, is hoping to have her own claim to be 120 years of age verified by Guinness World Records. But experts have already cast doubt on Nazir's claims. The world's current verified oldest living person is Inah Canabarro Lucas The Brazilian nun turned 116 last June Valery Novoselov, a geriatrician at Moscow State University, told Russian outlet AIF: 'There are no reliably registered men on the planet older than 114 to 115 years [of age]. 'In the Caucasus in the 60s, they also recorded 'long-livers' - shepherds who allegedly lived to 168 years. 'These are so-called games with age. There are no documents, no reliable data - which means this is an unrealistic picture.' In 2015, a man claiming to be 100 years old applied for asylum in Germany after an extraordinary eight-month journey from Afghanistan. Like Nazir, Abdul Qadir Azizi did not have any identity papers, but his family claimed his year of birth was 1905. Azizi, who is deaf and blind, spent one month travelling across two continents from his home in the Afghan town of Baghlan to reach Germany. His family fled after three of Azizi's sons were killed by the Taliban. The plight of the elderly in Afghanistan has worsened since the Taliban takeover. In 2024, they effectively abolished the pension system, leaving many older Afghans struggling to meet basic needs. Previously, anyone over the age of 65 received a monthly payment of around $100 from the state. Tommy Robinson is appealing against his jail sentence for contempt of court, according to court listings. The news comes as the controversial activist remains caged in a 'closed wing' amid reports he has a 'mark on his head' and could be 'killed by a lifer'. Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court after breaching an injunction. After being sentenced in October last year, Robinson was admitted to HMP Belmarsh, but 'on his first day he stated he had a conflict with followers of Islam', the High Court heard. He was then moved to HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes on November 1, but the prison received intelligence over threats to Robinson, with two other prisoners supposedly 'plotting to assault' him, the court was told. This resulted in him being moved to a 'closed wing which cannot be accessed by other prisoners'. Although he still has access to a laptop, with email capabilities, and gym facilities for three hours a day. Court listings have now revealed the 42-year-old will be challenging his prison term during a hearing at the Court of Appeal on April 11. Robinson was locked up in October last year after admitting 10 breaches of a High Court order made in 2021. Tommy Robinson (pictured in October 2024) is set to appeal his 18-month jail sentence for contempt of court, with a hearing set to take place later this month Robinson was admitted to HMP Belmarsh (pictured) last year after being sentenced for contempt of court after breaching an injunction He was then moved to HMP Woodhill (pictured) in Milton Keynes on November 1, where he received threats to his safety The order barred him from repeating false allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him for libel. Sentencing him at Woolwich Crown Court last year, Mr Justice Johnson said Robinson's breaches were not 'accidental, negligent or merely reckless' and that the 'custodial threshold is amply crossed'. The Solicitor General issued two contempt claims against Robinson last year. The first claimed he 'knowingly' breached the order on four occasions, including by having 'published, caused, authorised or procured' a film called Silenced, which contains the libellous allegations, in May 2023. The film remains pinned to the top of Robinson's profile on the social media site X, while he also repeated the claims in three interviews between February and June 2023. The second claim was issued in August concerning six further breaches, including playing the film at a demonstration in Trafalgar Square in central London last summer. Lawyers for the Solicitor General told Woolwich Crown Court that Robinson had been 'thumbing his nose at the court' and 'undermining' the rule of law. Barristers for Robinson said he accepted the breaches but was 'following his principles'. Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson, arrives at Westminster Magistrates Court in central London on April 22, 2024 Handing down the sentence, Mr Justice Johnson said that 'nobody is above the law' and described Robinson's breaches of the injunction as 'flagrant'. The injunction was issued after Robinson was successfully sued by Jamal Hijazi, a then-schoolboy who was assaulted at Almondbury Community School in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, in October 2018. After a clip of the incident went viral, Robinson made false claims on Facebook, including about Mr Hijazi attacking girls in his school, leading to the libel case. Mr Justice Nicklin ordered Robinson to pay Mr Hijazi 100,000 in damages and his legal costs, as well as making the injunction preventing Robinson from repeating the allegations. Last month, Robinson failed in a bid to bring a legal claim against the Government over his segregation in prison, after claiming he had suffered an 'evident decline in his mental health' due to his isolation at HMP Woodhill, near Milton Keynes. They are a widespread nuisance, bringing misery and threatening peoples safety across Scotland. However, police are enlisting a new tool to crack down on antisocial dirt bike riders who screech around the countrys streets, farmland and rural path networks illegally. Police Scotland has announced it is using a new aid called SelectaDNA tagging spray to tackle the issue in the Hawick area of the Borders. The handheld cannisters spray a very fine mist that can be aimed at bikes, clothing and even the skin of the riders on motorbikes and electric bikes. It does not cause any harm or damage to those it comes into contact with. However, importantly, it does not wash off, meaning those behind the menace face the constant threat of being tracked down by officers. The force said the spray provides a forensic link to offenders through a uniquely coded invisible DNA mark that can only be seen under a UV light. Sergeant Andrew Hope, of the Community Policing Team, said: Like many places around the country there are concerns in the Hawick area about anti-social behaviour associated with various types of bikes and this will not be tolerated. Police have had to deal with a spate of anti-social incidents linked to dirt bikes The force said the spray, above, provides a forensic link to offenders through a uniquely coded invisible DNA mark that can only be seen under a UV light The invisible substance can only be seen under a UV light This handheld spray is another tool that officers have at their disposal to help detect illegal and anti-social activity of this kind. Officers continue to carry out patrols and work with partner agencies to combat anti-social behaviour and anyone with concerns or information should report it to police. Communities around Scotland have complained of yobs on dirt bikes putting themselves and others at risk by speeding through streets and public spaces, performing stunts in traffic, and disregarding safety. The new spray could also be used to target the issue of illegal or modified e-bikes, where riders bypass speed and power limits, ignore traffic laws, and create hazards for pedestrians and other road users. In August 2024 a councillor in Fife was assaulted by a dirt bike rider, and even on Christmas Day, a quad biker tore through the Meadows in Edinburgh. Data from Police Scotland shows that officers seized 281 e-bikes and electric scooters after being used illegally on public roads between January and September 2024. Bill Murray has been caught on camera lashing out at a fan - threatening to step on a moviegoer's foot for violating his personal space. A TikTok clip that has gone viral showed the Hollywood actor, 74, walking inside the AMC Lincoln Square movie theater in New York City as fans seemed to crowd around him. After a fan seemingly got too close, Murray can be heard yelling 'Stop it' before turning around and pointing his finger. 'If you attack me like that again, I'll step on your foot,' said the Ghostbusters and Lost In Translation star. A security guard then intervened and guided Murray toward an escalator as the actor accused the moviegoer of 'physical assault.' 'Don't do it again!' Murray warned as he walked away from the crowd. 'You're not big enough to do that,' he added as the fan continued to apologize. The video quickly made the rounds on social media, with the public split on Murray's behavior. Bill Murray, 74, was caught on camera lashing out at a fan at an AMC theater in Manhattan Murray accused the moviegoer of 'physical assault' and threatened to 'step' on the fan's foot Some fans defended Murray's actions and accused the fan of violating his personal space, while others trolled the actor online Many fans were quick to defend the actor, with one comment reading, 'Bill Murray is known as a good guy to the public. I don't blame him for creating a boundary here.' 'Don't understand people bothering these people like they're some kind of gods. They're actors, just people,' another agreed. Some fans shared their experiences meeting the actor, testifying that Murray was kind to them during their interactions. 'I was at a Cubs game, Bill Murray sat in front of us, he bought us a round of beers because we would stop fans from harassing him. Great guy!' one fan shared. 'I know Bill M from my childhood in Wilmette Ill and he's a great guy and someone crossed the line so they must have been very aggressive and annoying,' a second shared. However, some comments slammed the actor for the aggressive behavior, with one user calling Murray a 'Karen.' 'It looks like Bill Murray attacked the guy behind him,' another wrote. Murray was at the theater to promote his new film with Naomi Watts, The Friend, which comes out on April 25. Murray was at the theater while promoting his new film with Naomi Watts, The Friend, which comes out on April 25 Murray has recently been the subject of debate on social media after his unprompted kiss with Naomi Watts on Andy Cohen's Watch What Happens Live Murray and Watts have been on a press tour promoting the new film, recently appearing on an episode of Andy Cohen's Watch What Happens Live. During a Q&A segment of the show, Watts was asked who her best on-screen kiss was, which led Murray to grab her and kiss her on air. Murray became the subject of debate once again, with a flurry of social media users sounding off on the jaw-dropping interaction. 'I feel so bad for her that she had to pretend to be okay afterwards,' one commenter wrote. 'The death grip on her face... poor Naomi,' another chimed in. Despite the negative commentary, the two seemed to laugh it off and Watts asked, 'Did I go red?' Murray also made headlines recently for his candid commentary on The Howard Stern Show when he revealed what it was like to lose an Oscar in 2004 to Sean Penn after he was favored for the award. DailyMail.com reached out to Murray's representatives for comment but didn't immediately hear back. He could easily lay claim to being Britains stupidest burglar. For career house-breaker Barry Lowery, 49, has finally been jailed - after leaving his prison ID in a house he raided. Bungling Lowery handed police the golden opportunity to catch him by providing detectives with the most vital of clues, which included his name and picture. He had once previously escaped with 9,000 of gold necklaces and bracelets studded with precious stones, but assumed they were costume jewellery, so threw them in a river. Lowery has robbed dozens of student houses in of Durham over the last 31 years, so was already a prime suspect. But despite a judge noting there is a close to 100 per cent chance of him reoffending, analysis shows courts have an embarrassing record of letting him off too lightly. The current hope for lasting justice came at Durham Crown Court last week when Lowery was jailed for burgling four student houses over New Year. The crook used his tried and tested method, hoping students would be home with parents over holidays, but terrified a girl, 20, in one house, who had returned early. Barry Lowery was jailed for seven years and four months after he pleaded guilty to four burglaries as well as cannabis possession A police image of Lowery from 2017 when he was jailed for three student burglaries One of her housemates, who the Mail is not naming for fear she may face reprisals, said: She texted us all asking if someone else had come back - as she had heard a noise. Her next message said the burglar had suddenly appeared in her bedroom. He fled, but she was so terrified she had to go home till the rest of us got back. When I returned I could hardly sleep, even with a chair wedged under my bedroom door handle. We were frightened it would happen again. Lowery had also rifled through underwear drawers and taken a pair of knickers. Most of his swag was jewellery and expensive electronic gadgets, along with a passport, a 340 Mont Blanc pen and a treasured gold necklace left by a late grandmother. But Lowery made a series of crucial mistakes by first using his ID-card to lever open a window, then leaving plentiful fingerprints and a witness, before he was arrested days later at his terrace house a few miles away in West Cornforth, County Durham, surrounded by all the loot not yet sold. The girl whose underwear had been stolen told the court she found the grubby theft creepy and weird. Most of the burglar's swag was jewellery and expensive electronic gadgets belonging to students at Durham University Lowery pleaded guilty to four burglaries - plus cannabis possession - with his barrister Michele Turner saying in mitigation: He was removed from his parents at a very young age due to physical and emotional abuse. He spent many hours locked in his bedroom as a child, not seeing daylight or going to school. He tells me he deliberately left fingerprints and his ID, with the aim of going back to prison, where he feels safe. Judge Richard Bennett rejected the claim he sought prison - noting that he had sold much of his haul fast - and jailed the career burglar for seven years and four months. Investigation chief PC Mike White said: Lowery is a despicable criminal who is clearly never going to change. However, we hope this lengthy custodial sentence gives the public some peace of mind. However, Lowery has been jailed for longer before - only to get his sentence cut on appeal. Available records suggest his first Durham student burglary was in 1994. In 2001 Lowery was described as a drug addict as a kindly judge left him free after a burglary, so he could get his life back in order - only for him to raid a student flat and then a house, within a fortnight. He then got a four-year sentence after asking for two dozen offences to be taken into consideration. In 2005 when Lowery was jailed for five years after admitting burgling an astonishing 29 Durham student homes - including one where he brandished a crowbar at a girl and told her: Get out my f***ing way or Ill smash your head in. Judge John Walford told him prison was necessary but added: I keep it as short as I can while carrying out my duty to protect the public from you. In 2017 he was jailed for three student burglaries, one in a college. He took an American girls passport and her late sisters valuable jewellery - the 9,000 haul he assumed was costume jewellery and dumped in the River Wear - leading Judge Christopher Prince to give him ten years in jail and observe his chance of reoffending was near 100 per cent. Yet the Court of Appeal reduced that sentence, saying it should have been significantly lower, cutting it to eight years six months. Lowery was out within four years, only to be jailed again in 2021, for 54 months, for stealing a students computer, and told he was a professional criminal causing as much disruption as possible to students lives. The court heard then that Lowery had an earliest release date in 2025 thanks to being on licence regarding previous crimes, and Judge James Lowery recommended that he should be excluded by law from the City of Durham. Yet by December 2024 he was out and immediately targeting students again. A Florida grandmother involved in the death of two of her grandchildren in separate incidents has received a shocking sentence of only five years in prison. Tracey Nix, 67, was sentenced to half a decade behind bars after a sentencing hearing on Thursday after she left her 7-month-old granddaughter, Uriel, in a hot car nearly two and a half years ago. Nix had been returning from lunch with friends on November 1, 2022, when she left the baby in the car as temperatures reached 90 degrees that afternoon. This was nearly a year after Nix's 16-month-old grandson Ezra had been in the care of his Nix when he opened the doors and wandered into a pond outside of her home. Ezra drowned in the pool while Nix was sleeping during the December 2021 incident. Friends she had lunch with the day Uriel died previously testified that Nix, whomthey had known for decades, was a loving grandmother, Fox 13 reported. The hearing was especially emotional, as Nix's daughter and the mother of baby Uriel, Kaila Nix-Schock, told her mother she still loved her. 'I still love you. I hate this,' Nix-Schock said in tears. 'I hate that I have to choose, but you know I had to. But it doesn't change my heart.' Tracey Nix, 67, was sentenced to five years in prison after a hearing on Thursday after she left her 7-month-old granddaughter in a hot car nearly two and a half years ago Nix had been returning from lunch with friends on November 1, 2022, when she left the baby in the car as temperatures reached 90 degrees that afternoon This was nearly a year after Schock and Nix-Schock's 16-month-old son Ezra had been in the care of his Nix when he opened the doors and wandered into a pond outside of her home Nix spoke tearfully to her daughter and said: 'I love you, and I've always loved you with all my heart.' 'I tell you that because I can't imagine how I would have acted and reacted had you been taken from me,' she continued. Nix faced up to 30 years in prison on charges of aggravated manslaughter, but the jury acquitted her of that charge. She was found guilty of leaving a child unattended in a vehicle, causing great bodily harm. Nix had gone inside at around 2 pm and talked to her dog and practiced playing the piano 'for a long time' before she remembered her granddaughter was still inside the hot car. Baby Uriel's father, Drew Schock, said: 'There are some things you don't think about, and as parents we have to live with that for the rest of our lives.' Nix spoke on the incident for the first time on Thursday about why Uriel ended up being left in the car that fateful afternoon. 'I didn't realize that Uriel was in the car. I literally forgot for a long period of time,' she said. Pictured: Nix-Schock and Schock despondent in court during Nix's sentencing hearing The hearing was especially emotional, as Nix's daughter and the mother of baby Uriel, Kaila Nix-Schock, told her mother she still loved her Nix had gone inside at around 2 pm and talked to her dog and practiced playing the piano 'for a long time' before she remembered her granddaughter (pictured) was still inside the hot car 'I'm broken about what happened. I don't want to leave anyone with the thought that I'm making excuses, because I'm not.' Nix's husband, Nun Ney, said that 'Tracey mourned in silence,' and she rarely left the house after Uriel's death. However, the judge ruled on the sentence taking into account that the incident was not isolated. 'Uriel is not an isolated incident. I do not believe she is showing remorse; I believe she is showing sorrow,' said Judge Brandon Rafool. 'She's done this twice and the fact that we're debating whether she deserves jail time is just insane to me,' Schock said at the April 3 hearing. After Ezra's death, police had attempted to file charges against Nix at the time, but the Florida Attorney's Office 'stated that a one-time lapse of judgment would not establish culpable negligence of the caretaker.' Yet when the parents were forced to rush back to Tracey's home in November 2022, Schock said he started to have flashbacks. 'When I pulled up to the house, Im coming to pick up my little girl, and there are ambulances there, and Im thinking: "What the is going on?" he told Fox 13. Nix had gone inside at around 2pm and talked to her dog and practiced playing the piano 'for a long time' before she remembered her granddaughter was still inside the hot car 'She's done this twice and the fact that we're debating whether she deserves jail time is just insane to me,' Uriel's father David Schock said at the April 3 hearing In December 2021, 16-month-old Ezra had been in the care of his grandmother, Nix, when he opened the doors and wandered into a pond outside of her home. Ezra drowned in the pool while Nix was sleeping 'I was having flashbacks, because when I pulled back with Ezra there, it was the same exact scene.' Police showed up at Nix-Schock's door to share the heart-wrenching news, but the mother was confused. 'I said: "Im sorry, what? I know Ezras dead. Why are you here, like what what is this?"' Nix-Schock recalled. '[He said:] "No Kaila, your baby is dead."' 'You couldnt fathom it happening twice,' Schock said. 'Somebody has to answer for that.' The judge told the court on Thursday that the sentencing was his 'final determination here.' 'I am not putting people on probation to be walking around this community to rehash an issue or for something to come up. I have sentenced her to five years in prison. I want this community to move on,' Rafool said. He urged the community to give the family space to remain in peace. 'This community needs to move past this case and leave Drew and Kaila Schock alone. Let them and their two children live in peace. This family has lost two children, Ezra and Uriel Schock. The tragedy of this case is undeniable,' Rafool added. 'When I pulled up to the house, Im coming to pick up my little girl, and there are ambulances there, and Im thinking: "What the is going on?" Drew Schock said. 'I was having flashbacks, because when I pulled back with Ezra there, it was the same exact scene' Kaila Nix-Schock said: 'I loved and adored my children. I also love and adore my family. I think this hearing really demonstrated the tortured nature of the entire event. The love for my family is real, but the love for my children supersedes everything' Pictured: Yet, Schock was outraged by the light sentencing. 'Five years is really a drop in the bucket. We will spend the rest of our lives - our son will grow up without his brother or sister. Five years to me, is it justice? No, not really. But it's what we could have gotten,' he said. Nix-Schock told Fox 13: 'I loved and adored my children. I also love and adore my family. I think this hearing really demonstrated the tortured nature of the entire event. The love for my family is real, but the love for my children supersedes everything.' One hesitates to knee a man when he is down but Sir Justin Welbys farewell television interview last weekend was depressing. It was not so much the content - an understandable desire to explain a few things after his resignation - as the personality of Sir Justin himself. There is no kind way of saying this: he was unexceptionable. Few can doubt that Sir Justin, 69, tried his best as the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury, a line that stretches back to St Augustine; but viewers beholding this slight, managerial figure will have been underwhelmed. The merchant-banker-style spectacles. The open-necked shirt. The cardboard phrases evincing a grey, corporate character. Where was the grandeur of language? Where was the authority that should surely accrue after eight years as spiritual leader of 86 million Anglicans worldwide? Sir Justin will no doubt have been through personal turmoil since being toppled by accusations of Church child-abuse going ignored. But when he said he now hoped for total obscurity I would love never to be on telly again, in other words to disappear, it was hard to resist thinking, well that shouldnt be too difficult to arrange. This is not just a Welby thing. The same applies to many like Sir Justin in our governing class. There are hundreds, even thousands of them. Dutiful but dull, they go through the motions of modern leadership, uttering the same bromides about due process and governance procedures. It is as if they have been programmed by human resources, individuality erased by formulaic managerialism. Commerce and banking are not immune from this vanilla drift, as was apparent when Paula Vennels was put in charge of the Post Office. Her chief quality? She was said to exude an air of Radio 4 respectability. You find her ilk throughout Whitehall, in the regulatory agencies, charities and academia, even in our greatest universities. They burble away, leaving no more impression than the slenderest moth on a pillow. Across the entire seascape of politics: insipidness. Commerce and banking are not immune from this vanilla drift, as was apparent when Paula Vennels was put in charge of the Post Office As the Mails parliamentary sketch-writer I watch these paladins of public life as they come before Westminster select committees. The governor of the Bank of England, Sir Andrew Bailey, fiddles with his chin and ums and ers. The worlds biggest tech companies send PR directors who might as well be area managers for Wiggins Teape. Trade union leaders sound like chartered accountants. Whitehall mandarins are among the most forgettable. The only one with much evident panache is Dame Antonia Romeo at the Department of Justice. The rest? Third XI material at best. Take Sir Philip Barton, who just stepped down as permanent secretary at the Foreign Office. What a fantastic position that is. Sir Philip must have seen more life cross his desk in one week than most of us do in a lifetime. Previously he was our high commissioner to India and to Pakistan, two vigorous, vibrant countries. You thought: gosh, if he was posted there he must have something to him. But in the flesh there was seldom so pedestrian a specimen. The Home offices former permanent secretary, Sir Matthew Rycroft, was previously head of the Department for International Aid, ambassador to the United Nations and ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina. What an Alpha operator he must have been to rise to such magnificences, an innocent onlooker might think. Yet Sir Matthew was a stuttery hand-wringer. Simon Ridley, his deputy, looked so nervous that an airline steward would have handed him a sickbag. These two made Justin Welby look suave. The quangos are no better. MPs summoned Lady Manzoor, who chairs the Financial Ombudsman Service. She was under pressure about the departure of her chief executive. Lady Manzoor curled into the defensive ball of a put-upon woodlouse. She was no-comment made flesh. It was pitiful. Sir Justin will no doubt have been through personal turmoil since being toppled by accusations of Church child-abuse going ignored George Basil Hume served as Archbishop of Westminster from 1976 until his death in 1999. He was a priest of the Benedictine order and was made a cardinal in 1977 We could be ruled by dazzlers who gallop for the horizon and make us follow them from sheer force of charisma. Instead, our governing class shrivels. Why? Does human nature not tend to laughter and difference? Such things, however, will hold you back in modern civic life. Play it safe. Say nothing interesting. Thats how to ascend the greasy pole. Tall poppies are scythed. Flair is regarded with suspicion. This has led to some commentators talking of Britain being in a normie doom spiral - a disappearing eddy of normies, or dullards. A Parade of Plodders. The smack of command has been replaced by something limp and timid. Modern managers think this approach is friendlier. Actually it is less democratic, for promotions are made according to orthodoxy rather than individual merit. Half a century ago the British establishment was not short of fizzers. Michael Ramsay was Archbishop of Canterbury, wriggling his Old Testament eyebrows at the world. The BBC was chaired by Sir Michael Swann, a molecular cell biologist and war hero. The cabinet secretary was razor-sharp Sir John Hunt, punctiliously impartial and, as it happened, brother-in-law of the Benedictine monk Basil Hume. Hume became Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster and was the most papabile Englishman (ie best qualified to be a pope) for some 400 years. Today we have four British cardinals. Can you name more than one of them? The Poet Laureate of the mid-1970s was Miss Joan Hunter-Dunns suitor, Sir John Betjeman. The Booker Prizes shortlist included C.P. Snow, Kingsley Amis and Beryl Bainbridge. Across the legal world strode two salty jurists: the Master of the Rolls, Lord Denning, and that harrumphing contrarian Quintin Hogg as Lord Chancellor. Denis Healey, once a beachmaster at the Battle of Anzio, was Chancellor of the Exchequer. He, too, had bushy eyebrows. The Master of Balliol was the Marxist historian Christopher Hill. On television Michael Parkinsons chat-show guests included Peter Sellers and Muhammad Ali. Ideas flew as fast as fists. Politically and socially these people were a mixed bag and they were interesting. Would they have prospered in 21st century Britain? Sir John Betjeman was not safe in taxis. Sir Kingsley Amis was difficult after lunch. Dame Beryl Bainbridge smoked like a Drax power station. With todays political filtration systems they would soon have been cancelled for being insufficiently worshipful towards, say, Black Lives Matter or Just Stop Oil. Breakfast television would have sent them to Outer Siberia. Whitehalls honours committee would have given them a swerve. Our countrys glittering prizes now go to duds, from the prime minister down. Sir Keir Starmer proudly says he is not bookish and that he does not dream. This is depressingly believable. His speeches are as thin as skimmed milk. Kemi Badenoch and Sir Ed Davey have as much hinterland as mud-flats. Beyond Angela Rayner and Nigel Farage, few politicians break out of the straitjacket. Even Mr Farage is now in danger of being gelded by his partys new chairman. You may accuse me of nostalgia, of a sepia-tinged belief that everything was better in the old days. No they werent. The past was repressed. Logically it should therefore have been more boring. Class rigidities have eased, thank heavens, so why are our leaders not more colourful? Why has the governing elite never felt more like a different, disapproving caste? One person involved in the vetting of top public appointments suggests that the Establishment has, since Brexit, lost its nerve. Another, who served in Boris Johnsons cabinet, adds: Public life has been rotten for decades. Since the 1970s, with the exception of the Thatcher years, the Establishments objective has been managed decline. Bogus egalitarianism is also to blame. Public bodies are told to promote minority representation. Big jobs go to middlers. Sir Ed Davey has as much hinterland as mud-flats Politically and socially these people were a mixed bag and they were interesting. Would they have prospered in 21st century Britain? Sir John Betjeman was not safe in taxis Denis Healey, once a beachmaster at the Battle of Anzio, was Chancellor of the Exchequer. He, too, had bushy eyebrows The Master of Balliol today, far from being a scintillating Leftwing thinker, is a right-on former pen-pusher, Dame Helen Ghosh. Previously she turned the National Trust from national treasure into a woke horror-show. Emmanuel College, Cambridge, once had that witty peacock Norman St John-Stevas as its Master. His successor today is Sally Morgan, scowling ex bag-carrier for Tony Blair. The masters lodge at Trinity, Cambridge, grandest of all colleges, is occupied by Dame Sally Davies, the former chief medical officer who was forever telling us what not to eat and drink. Maybe she should have spent more time worrying about pandemics. As recently as the 1990s Sir Chris Woodhead was the head of Ofsted. Sir Chris was an eloquent, bold campaigner for education. The only person who approaches him today is the London headmistress Katharine Birbalsingh, yet she is ostracised by the establishment. The new cabinet secretary, Sir Chris Wormald, attended a Commons select committee last month. He came across as little more than a backroom wonk. Sir Chris replaced Simon Case, who was too young and impressionable for the job. In earlier decades both men would been lucky to run on with the half-time oranges. How about the Royal Society, our national academy of the sciences? I looked at the first 10 pages of its websites list of fellows and recognised only one of them (Kate Bingham, who led the Covid vaccines taskforce). The rest may well be fine researchers but they are not prominent in national life. Is it not important for our society to celebrate and to be exposed to its greatest minds? It is the same at the British Council and the Royal Society of Literature. Roger Lewis, an author of rare spark, has repeatedly had his hopes of becoming a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature rebuffed. Roger, you see, can be a little argumentative. But what is so terrible about that? Writers are meant to be bolshy. Public intellectuals were once encouraged to say what they thought. John Freeman conducted Face to Face interviews with prominent thinkers of the 1960s. They included the controversial MP Bob Boothby, the writer Dame Edith Sitwell, Sir John Reith, Evelyn Waugh and Compton Mackenzie. They raised their chins and spat out their opinions. In the early 1990s the programme was revived and even then the list had some interesting people: Anthony Burgess, David Hare, Vanessa Redgrave, Germaine Greer. If Face to Face were revived today, imagine the anguish about giving a platform to people whose opinions might upset the fainthearts. We have allowed prudes to suffocate ideas. The Royal National Theatre is chaired by a low-profile businessman, Sir Damon Buffini. How often do we hear sparky contributions to national debate from him or the theatres director, Indhu Rubasingham? Shes hardly another Peter Hall, is she? The president of Riba, the architects body, is Muyiwa Oki. At 32 he is too inexperienced to bring much to the feast. The National Gallerys director, Mary McMahon, seems more interested in political correctness than in arts emotional depths. The Arts Council is in the grip of that cold fish Sir Nicholas Serota, the box-tickers box-ticker. Even the Chelsea Flower Show has gone trendy and dull. Its president? A chap called Keith Weed. Says it all, really. And so we slide into drabness. Young entrepreneurs are denied business role-models such as Sir John King and Anita Roddick. The supreme court being filled with characters from the Observer Book of Brians, our notion of justice is anaesthetised. Even pop music has become unadventurous. The energy of punk has ebbed to something altogether more tame. Pulses slow, appetites wane, the nation slowly subsides into lassitude. And our normie elite thinks job done well be safe in our jobs now. A junior at the University of South Carolina was run over and killed by an illegal migrant from El Salvador previously arrested and released almost a decade ago, according to officials from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The hit-and-run killed 21-year-old Nathanial 'Nate' G. Baker, who was riding a motorcycle, directly in front of the university campus in downtown Columbia on Wednesday. Rosali I. Fernandez-Cruz, 24, failed to yield and turned left into the intersection of Assembly and Blossom Streets before smashing his truck into Baker, the Columbia Police Department said. Fernandez-Cruz is also accused of driving away from the scene before getting out of his car and attempting to flee. An officer gave chase and detained the suspect. Two men with Fernandez-Cruz at the time of the accident also fled, according to police. No charges are pending against them and their immigration statuses are unknown. Baker was eventually taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. Fernandez-Cruz was charged with hit and run resulting in death, failure to give information and render aid, and failure to yield the right of way. He was also charged with driving without a license. Tricia McLaughlin, DHS assistant secretary for public affairs, said in a statement that the suspect was 'in our country illegally' and that Baker 'should be alive today.' Nathanial 'Nate' G. Baker, a junior at the University of South Carolina, was killed Wednesday in a hit-and-run crash. He was riding a motorcycle and was struck by a truck Columbia police say 24-year-old Rosali I. Fernandez-Cruz, an illegal migrant from El Salvador, was the man behind the wheel of the truck that killed Baker (Pictured: Fernandez-Cruz appears in court after he was charged in connection with the crash) She added that DHS 'prays for Nate's family, friends, and loved ones and will work every day to protect innocent Americans like Nate.' After Columbia police apprehended Fernandez-Cruz, they learned he was wanted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The police department has communicated with the agency regarding his arrest. Fernandez-Cruz was ordered out of the country in 2018 by an immigration judge A source within DHS told Fox News Fernandez-Cruz was previously arrested by US Border Patrol officers in Hidalgo, Texas, on December 24, 2016. An immigration judge then ordered him back to El Salvador nearly two years later on September 6, 2018. Baker was a business major from Glen Allen, Virginia, according to a statement from the University of South Carolina. 'Our prayers and deepest sympathies go out to Nate's family and friends during this difficult time,' according to university officials. 'Counseling staff are actively working with those impacted, and services are available to any member of our campus community affected by this tragedy.' Baker was a member of the university's chapter of Phi Gamma Delta, a fraternity commonly known as Fiji. 'Yesterday, we lost not just a brother, but a leader, a role model, and a true embodiment of what our fraternity stands for,' the organization wrote in a statement on Instagram. Pictured: Heartbroken students at the University of South Carolina who knew Baker gather around a memorial for him that was set up on campus Clay Best, a fraternity brother, told WIS10 he'll make sure Baker 'lives through us,' adding that he is 'grateful that I got the chance know him' Baker (center) pictured with two of his fraternity brothers at an event The statement continued: 'Nate Baker brought light, laughter, and love into all of our lives. Nate will always be remembered for the way he showed up for others and the impact he had on everyone around him.' 'His passion, loyalty, and love for this brotherhood will never be forgotten. May we honor his memory by living with the same kindness, selflessness and generosity that he showed to everyone around him. Rest in Peace Nathaniel Baker.' Clay Best, a fraternity brother, told WIS10 he'll make sure Baker 'lives through us,' adding that he is 'grateful that I got the chance know him.' Aidan Roberts, one of Bakers fraternity brothers, said he knew him for the past three years. He was among the many students who gathered around a memorial on campus. 'He is probably one of the best guys Ive ever met. Hes such a guys guy, always helping a hand whenever you need him, guys morning or night, he would literally do anything for you. Hes one of the best people I have ever come across and we are all lucky to have known him,' Roberts said. People who knew him said he was the nicest person and that his smile will be the thing they remember the most. The Columbia Police Department revealed to the local outlet that there were 27 collisions last year at the intersection where Baker was killed this week. App faced a Saturday deadline for a deal or would be shut down in U.S. President Donald Trump announced Friday he is extending the deadline for a deal to save TikTok in the United States, saying it needs 'more work.' The popular video app faced a Saturday deadline a Saturday deadline to be sold to an American company or face shutdown in the United States. But Trump is giving the process another 75 days. 'My Administration has been working very hard on a Deal to SAVE TIKTOK, and we have made tremendous progress. The Deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an Executive Order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days,' he announced on Truth Social. The president is considering a deal that would allow China's ByteDance to keep control of its algorithm, which would be leased to a U.S. company where ByteDance has a minority stake, according to ABC News. The algorithm is what makes TikTok so addictive but the app remains a source of national security concerns over Chinese ownership. Trump said talks with China continued and argued his new tariffs, which have angered Beijing, will ultimately help get a deal signed. 'We do not want TikTok to go dark,"' he wrote. President Donald Trump is weighing his options on TikTok Several companies have expressed interest in having a stake in the app. Amazon threw its hat in the final days of negotiations. And Oracle, which already provides TikTok with most of its backend technical support, is interested. Trump told reporters on Air Force One on Thursday that the final deal would have 'multiple' investors. The algorithm leasing proposal has been controversial in the White House as there is concern whether that would remove ByteDance from having operational control of the app. TikTok is one of the most powerful media sources in America today. The company, which hosts around 170 million US users, has grown to be one of the largest online shopping marketplaces with millions of dollars in daily sales. Congress passed the TikTok ban in 2024 with overwhelming bipartisan support demanding China lose its control of the popular video service. Lawmakers had national security concerns that an app used by more than half of Americans was controlled by China. TikTok fought the ban all the way to the Supreme Court, calling it a violation of free speech rights, but the court upheld the law in early 2025. ByteDance didn't agree to terms with any US-based companies and went dark for a few hours on January 19th, the day before President Trump's inauguration. But Trump, who pushed to ban the app in his first term, had changed his stance in the past year and fought to keep the social media site operational in the US. After his inauguration, he signed a delay in implementing the ban but now that new deadline is rapidly approaching. TikTok has 170 million American users Trump also told reporters that TikTok is a good example of how he can use tariffs to make deals with other countries. 'You have a situation with TikTok where China will probably say: 'We'll approve a deal, but will you do something on the tariffs?'' Trump said on Thursday. 'We could use tariffs in order to get something in return.' He noted: 'If somebody said that we're going to give you something that's so phenomenal, as long as they're giving us something, that's good.' Even if Trump approves a deal, China will need to sign off on it and Beijing is not too happy with the White House given the new tariffs the president has implemented. China faces a 54% tariffs on goods imported into the U.S. But it responded forcefully on Friday, slapping a 34% tariff on American imports. Trump said discussions with China continue. 'We hope to continue working in Good Faith with China, who I understand are not very happy about our Reciprocal Tariffs (Necessary for Fair and Balanced Trade between China and the U.S.A.!),' he wrote on Truth Social. 'This proves that Tariffs are the most powerful Economic tool, and very important to our National Security! We do not want TikTok to go dark. We look forward to working with TikTok and China to close the Deal.' A drunk man who flew business class for the first time in his life was kicked off an Emirates flight before it had even departed as he enjoyed the hospitality a little 'too much'. Shaun Hewitt had boarded the jet from Newcastle to Dubai on December 12 last year, with an upgraded ticket for the first time ever and became 'abusive' when he was asked to move seats because of his drunken behaviour. Newcastle Crown Court heard when police boarded the aircraft Hewitt told one officer to 'f*** off', claimed he had done 'nothing wrong' and said 'leave us alone you f***ing divvy'. Hewitt claimed he had had only two pints and responded with 'are you f***ing mad' at suggestions he was drunk. The court heard despite the disruption, the flight, which was already around an hour delayed, took off shortly afterwards. Hewitt, 33, of Prince Edward Road, South Shields, South Tyneside, admitted being drunk on an aircraft and was all smiles at Newcastle Crown Court today, where he received a suspended prison sentence. Prosecutor Nicholas Lane told the court police had noticed Hewitt as he walked to board the aircraft at around 2pm when he commented 'there's coppers and CID'. Around 20 minutes later the same officers, who were in the terminal, were informed of a disruptive passenger on the Emirates flight which was preparing for take-off and the description they were given matched Hewitt. Hewitt, 33, of Prince Edward Road, South Shields, South Tyneside, admitted being drunk on an aircraft and was all smiles at Newcastle Crown Court today The court heard despite the disruption, the flight, which was already around an hour delayed, took off shortly afterwards Mr Lane said: 'It was reported he had been abusive towards cabin crew. A fellow passenger had asked to move seats due to his behaviour but it was thought better Mr Hewitt move. 'He had a ticket in business class. 'When asked to move he became abusive towards cabin crew staff. 'Police boarded the flight and when asked to leave the aircraft an officer recalls Mr Hewitt said 'what have I done wrong'. He was told he was drunk. 'He continued to swear and said to the officer, "Who are you talking to like that, f*** off". He became agitated saying, "I've done nothing wrong, leave us alone you f***ing divvy". 'He stood up and said to the officer "move out of the f***ing way you f***ing a******e'. 'The officer formed the opinion Mr Hewitt was drunk and he was cautioned and arrested.' The court heard as Hewitt was removed from the aircraft he insisted he had only had two pints and asked the officers if they were 'f***ing mental'. Jason Smith, defending, said it was the first time in Hewitt's life that he had the means to pay for the upgraded flight (file image) Hewitt was eventually put in leg restraints, which were removed before he was transported to the police station. Jason Smith, defending, said it was the first time in Hewitt's life that he had the means to pay for the upgraded flight after receiving compensation and another payout and added: 'He had enjoyed the hospitality, perhaps too much, in the airport. 'He takes full responsibility and acknowledges that whatever actions he took on the airplane would have caused disturbance to people on the plane. He is wholly sorry for that.' Judge Edward Bindloss sentenced Hewitt to two months, suspended for 12 months with rehabiltation requirements. Judge Bindloss said Hewitt was drunk on an aircraft and the situation had potential to develop and endanger lives of passengers if the flight had taken off.' The judge added: 'You were abusive to two police officers, swore at them. This was in a confined space. 'Thankfully the plane hadn't taken off or you would have been trapped with the others upon it.' Judge Bindloss said Hewitt has been assessed as a low risk of re-offending and is not heavily convicted. She's back! Laura Loomer, the 31-year-old conspiracy theorist and far-right activist whose closeness to President Trump threatened to derail his 2024 campaign, popped up again this week in the Oval Office, apparently with a 'kill list' of staffers to be fired. On Thursday, one day after Loomer's face-to-face meeting with President Trump, he fired six members of the National Security Council. Three had close relationships with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and one had close ties to Trump's national security adviser Mike Waltz a strategic way, perhaps, of punishing Rubio and Waltz for their roles in Signalgate. Though Trump denied Loomer had any role in these firings on Air Force One on Thursday 'she makes recommendations and sometimes I listen to those' other top advisers in that meeting told the New York Times they were alarmed by Loomer's presence. Remember: This is a woman who said, if Kamala Harris won the election, that 'the White House would smell like curry.' Who, upon the death of Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a well-known member of the Black Congressional Caucus, called Lee a 'ghetto bitch'. Loomer has described herself 'pro-white nationalism', believes 9/11 was an 'inside job' and has accused Governor Ron DeSantis's wife Casey of 'exaggerating' her breast cancer. Laura Loomer (pictured), the 31-year-old conspiracy theorist and far-right activist whose closeness to President Trump threatened to derail his 2024 campaign, popped up again this week - in the Oval Office, apparently with a 'kill list' of staffers to be fired. On Thursday, one day after Loomer's face-to-face meeting with President Trump, he fired six members of the National Security Council. (Pictured: Laura Loomer and Donald Trump). She has suggested that at least two of America's worst mass shootings were staged. Even for Teflon Don, this woman hair freshly dyed hot pink seems way too dangerous. It says something when eight members of his most loyal inner circle promptly leaked details of this meeting to the press. It is all too reminiscent of last September, about six weeks out from the election and just off the back that disastrous Trump-Kamala debate. Trump's campaign, up until then steady, was seeming to falter and not least because he made the decision to allow Loomer, an 9/11 conspiracist, to accompany him on his private jet to September 11 memorial services. That's when a friend of Trump, who speaks to him every week, told me of their serious concern and disgust over Loomer's closeness. 'The truth is no one's in charge. He's not taking good advice because there isn't any. It's embarrassing.' Loomer and if you believe in nominative determinism, this woman is the looming threat that won't go away clearly offers Trump something no other member of MAGA-land does. Kanye West? Completely ousted. Antisemite Nick Fuentes? A distant memory. But Loomer, who has been photographed pushing her breasts against Trump's chest and has been invited to his private balcony at Bedminster, clearly has the president's ear like no other. No wonder Melania seems to prefer New York. According to the Times, Loomer sauntered into the Oval with a stack of documents that named NSC members she wanted fired. Walz, who reportedly joined the meeting later, was described as practically neutered. '[He] briefly defended some of his staff,' the Times reported, 'though it was clear he had little if any power to defend their jobs.' Let that sink in: Loomer, a professional agitator with no role in this administration, had more power in that meeting than Trump's own national security adviser. If Trump wants to push back against the liberal media narrative that the lunatics are running the asylum, this isn't the way. Even for Teflon Don, this woman - hair freshly dyed hot pink - seems way too dangerous. It says something when eight members of his most loyal inner circle promptly leaked details of this meeting to the press. Loomer has described herself 'pro-white nationalism', believes 9/11 was an 'inside job' and has accused Governor Ron DeSantis 's wife Casey of 'exaggerating' her breast cancer . Among those present at the 30-minute Oval Office meeting were Vice President JD Vance, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, whose brother died in 9/11 attacks how he could be forced to sit in the same room with Loomer is beyond me and Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles, who was instrumental in removing Loomer last September, when she was otherwise Velcroed to Trump's side. It was Wiles, Trump's affectionately nicknamed 'Ice Maiden', who reportedly stopped Trump from hiring Loomer last year. What on earth is Trump thinking now? Loomer is surely his biggest liability, but perhaps that's exactly why he likes her. She appeals to his inner chaos agent. After all, this is a week that saw Trump's tariffs wreak havoc on the stock market and Elon Musk exit his role, reportedly sooner than anticipated. One can only imagine the looks of disbelief in that meeting as Loomer, a crackpot who once got caught jumping Nancy Pelosi's fence, dictated whose heads should roll at the NSC. Her presence was either completely spontaneous or sprung by Trump on his unsuspecting staff. As the Times reported: 'It was not clear how she was invited to such a sensitive meeting with the president'. Truly, this beggars belief. What other influence does Loomer exercise with her special access to the president? Foreign policy? Trade and tariffs? The expunging of rivals for his favor? It was Loomer, after all, who went after Musk last year for his stance on granting H-1B visas to the best and the brightest, calling Indian migrants 'third-world invaders'. This is not a fine mind at work. Nor does she seem particularly emotionally mature. Loomer is nothing more than a click-baiting race hustler and xenophobe with zero scruples. Say what you will about Trump, but he's not dumb. Nor is he self-destructive. Except, apparently, when it comes to Loomer. He flirted with losing the 2024 election, in its final weeks, by bringing her along those 9/11 memorial events, offending MAGA Republicans and voters. Loomer, who has been photographed pushing her breasts against Trump's chest and has been invited to his private balcony at Bedminster, clearly has the president's ear like no other. Even Republican senator Lindsey Graham, who said 'I don't often agree with Marjorie Taylor Greene', publicly joined the controversial congresswoman last year in urging Trump to cut Loomer loose. 'The history of this person is just really toxic', Graham told Huffpost. 'I mean, she actually called for Kellyanne Conway's daughter to hang herself.' Loomer has zero shame. In fact, this March, Loomer established her own opposition research firm, called what else? 'Loomered'. Spoiler alert: Getting Loomered isn't a good thing, as Trump himself once pointed out when he lauded her at a Mar-a-Lago event, singling her out in the crowd. 'You don't want to be Loomered,' Trump said. 'If you're Loomered, you're in deep trouble.' The President would do well to heed his own words. Keir Starmer's desperate plea to end the Birmingham bin strike crisis was humiliatingly dismissed by the union today. Amid mounting fury at the Labour-run council over the chaos, with rubbish piling up and rats running riot on the city's streets, No10 urged Unite to 'get round the table' and negotiate 'in good faith'. A spokesman for the PM - said to have hand-picked local authority leader John Cotton - said the union must 'drop their opposition' to pay changes at the heart of a dispute. But Unite general secretary Sharon Graham shot back that Sir Keir was 'blaming' workers and had to 'wake up and smell the coffee'. She suggested he should step in to take part in talks. The backlash came after Downing Street said police have installed barriers at the picket line to prevent waste lorries being 'recklessly blocked'. Union members in Birmingham launched a walkout last month in a dispute over pay and jobs, which is causing misery for residents who say they face a public health crisis. The council declared a major incident earlier this week in a bid to increase collections of bin sacks amid a huge pile-up of waste on the streets. Keir Starmer 's desperate plea to end the Birmingham bin strike crisis was humiliatingly dismissed by the union today Amid mounting fury at the Labour-run council over the chaos, with rubbish piling up and rats running riot on the city's streets, No10 urged Unite to 'get round the table' and negotiate 'in good faith' The council declared a major incident earlier this week in a bid to increase collections of bin sacks amid a huge pile-up of waste on the streets Local government minister Jim McMahon met council chiefs yesterday in an effort to end the strike that has seen refuse workers stage a complete walkout for almost a month. The No10 spokesman said: 'Following that meeting, police have installed barriers at the picket line to prevent waste lorries being recklessly blocked from leaving the depots this morning to start dealing with the backlog. 'Unite need to focus on negotiating in good faith, drop their opposition to changes needed to resolve long-standing equal pay issues, and get round the table with the council to bring this strike to an end.' He added that lorries were now making their way out of the depot. Ms Graham said: 'It is not surprising that many workers in Britian question the Labour government's commitment to working people, when it issues a statement clearly blaming bin workers in a dispute not of their making. 'The bottom line about this dispute is that these workers, woke up one morning to be told they would be taking up to an 8,000 pay cut. They are being made to pay the price for austerity and bad decisions by Birmingham City Council.' Ms Graham said Unite had already agreed 'major changes'. 'Unite's team of decision makers has been in negotiations in good faith for weeks. It is the leader of the council who is missing in action and who has not been in any of the talks,' she said. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham shot back that Sir Keir was 'blaming' workers and had to 'wake up and smell the coffee' 'The government is going to have to wake up and smell the coffee that they are part of this dispute, as the commissioners report directly to them and they own the 3.9billion debt of the council. 'If the government were really concerned about the residents of Birmingham they would get the decision makers in a room of which they are clearly one, to ensure that Unite's solutions on the table were adopted.' The Tories have criticised ministers over the dispute, pointing to donations from Unite to Labour candidates at last year's general election and claiming the Government had since shown a 'reluctance' to call the union out. An alligator bit off more than it could chew after it tried to consume a female bodybuilder's dog. The 6-foot-6 predator lunged at the pooch, called Kona, as he was enjoying his evening walk in Tampa with owner Kim Jones, clamping its jaw around the mongrel's head. But ultra-fit Jones quickly sprang into action to save her beloved pet. '(Kona's) facing it, it's facing her, and it jumped out and got her,' Jones told Fox13 during an interview where her enviably-toned arms were on display. 'She was in up to here; her whole head was inside its mouth. I stopped thinking and just dove on it, jumped on it and straddled it, as lady-like as that is, and was trying to pry its jaws open.' Jones says she was able to wrench open the gator's jaws from behind and save Kona. 'Its back was to me, so it made me just jump on,' she explained. 'We just got lucky because just as quickly as it ran after us, it ran back into the water, and we were out of there.' Jones says she saw the gator's eyes moving towards her a few months before the attack, which took place as they enjoyed a lakeside walk. Kim Jones and her pet dog Kona. She managed to pry Kona from a hungry gator's jaws after a recent attack during an evening walk in Tampa Jones, who is incredibly-fit, got behind the gator and pulled its jaws apart to save her beloved pooch The lake where the attack happened is pictured. Jones saw the gator approach and tried to pull Kona away from the water's edge, but says her dog was too strong She tried to pull Kona away from the edge of the lake they were standing on, but says her dog is 'really strong' and was able to overpower her. Both Jones and Kona needed stitches after the attack. Kona is now sporting a plastic 'cone of shame' around her head as a reminder of the incident, but should make a full recovery. Jones says she faced the extreme danger because she's an 'empty nester' and 'Kona is her baby.' She says Kona is so precious to her that she didn't think of her pet as a mere animal and acted as if she would had the victim been human. Managing to pry a large alligator's prey out of its jaws is exceptionally risky and carries little chance of success. It also puts a human rescuer at risk of being eaten themselves. Floridians and others living among gator habitats have been warned to stay away from the edge of bodies of water to minimize the chances of an encounter. Pets should be kept indoors and experts also urge people living in gator habitats not to feed them or give them easy access to food. Jones said: 'It could easily happen, and you might not be that lucky to get your child or your pet. Jones injuries are pictured. She had to have stitches but says she has no regrets A gator pictured in a lake close to Jones' home. She hopes her story will serve as a cautionary tale to others 'Many people say they are more afraid of us than we are of them, clearly not the case.' In February 2023, grandma Gloria Serge was eaten by a gator while walking her pet dog in Fort Pierce. Serge, 85, tried to shield her pet as the predator lunged from a lake. But the frail grandma ended up falling to the ground and was quickly seized upon by the beast. Horrifying surveillance camera footage showed the dreadful attack take place. Sir Keir Starmer was today accused of more than 100 broken promises during his time as Labour leader - as he marked his fifth anniversary in the job. The Prime Minister took on his party's top role on 4 April 2020, when he succeeded Jeremy Corbyn at the height of the UK's first Covid lockdown. The Tories swiped that Sir Keir's leadership of Labour had seen 'more flip flops than a Brazilian beach' as they published a dossier detailing his five years of U-turns. The document set out how Sir Keir had betrayed working people, pensioners, farmers and students during his half-decade in charge of Labour. Conservative chairman Nigel Huddleston said: 'From the serious to the petty, no pledge is too sacred for Keir Starmer to break. 'His leadership has seen more flip flops than a Brazilian beach. Voters deserve better than a PM who says one thing and does another. You simply can't trust a word he says.' It came as a new poll revealed that a majority of Britons are still unclear what Sir Keir stands for - despite his five years as the leader of one of the UK's two main parties. The YouGov survey also showed that voters are now less clear of what the PM represents than they were before he won power at last July's general election. Sir Keir Starmer was today accused of more than 100 broken promises during his time as Labour leader - as he marked his fifth anniversary in the job The Prime Minister took on his party's top role on 4 April 2020, when he succeeded Jeremy Corbyn at the height of the UK's first Covid lockdown A YouGov poll revealed that Sir Keir's time in Downing Street has only increased the public's uncertainty about what he stands for When he stood to be Labour leader, Sir Keir made 10 'socialist' pledges as he sought to win over a party membership that had twice elected Mr Corbyn as leader. Among his promises - which he said were 'based on the moral case for socialism' - was a vow to 'support common ownership of rail, mail, energy and water'. Sir Keir also pledged to abolish Universal Credit and university tuition fees, to 'defend free movement as we leave the EU', and scrap the unelected House of Lords. But, to the fury of his party's Left-wingers in July 2022, the Labour leader junked his 10 promises as he blamed the economic impact of the Covid crisis. Sir Keir has also been accused of veering away from pledges he made in Labour's manifesto ahead of last year's general election. This included a vow to 'not increase taxes on working people' but - at the first Labour Budget for 14 years in October - Chancellor Rachel Reeves hiked employers' national insurance. It is estimated the majority of the higher costs for firms will be passed on to workers and consumers. Labour also pledged to 'champion British farming' in their manifesto. But Sir Keir's Government has sparked mass protests by farmers over its changes to inheritance tax. At the same time, Ms Reeves has infuriated millions of pensioners by taking away their winter fuel payments to prompt dire warnings from charities. Before becoming PM, Sir Keir promised a 'government of service' but - since entering Downing Street - has become embroiled in a series of 'sleaze' scandals. This includes major Labour donor Lord Alli - who lavished Sir Keir with free clothing - being given a Downing Street security pass. The PM has also seen the departure of his anti-corruption minister amid corruption allegations, while Louise Haigh left as transport secretary after it emerged she once pleaded guilty to a fraud offence. In a final abandonment of his previous promise to scrap university tuition fees, UK students are having to pay higher fees from next year after Sir Keir hiked charges. The YouGov poll revealed that Sir Keir's time in Downing Street has only increased the public's uncertainty about what he stands for. Before the election, 42 per cent of Britons said they had at least a broad idea of what the Labour leader stood for, compared to 49 per cent who were unclear. Now, nine months into his premiership, just a third of Britons (33 per cent) say they know what the Sir Keir stands for compared to 60 per cent who are uncertain. The survey also showed that Britons are now most likely to think that Sir Keir has been a 'poor' or 'terrible' leader since he first took the reins at Labour. Just under half (45 per cent ) of all Britons now hold this view, which is up 17 points since March 2023. By contrast, only 16 per cent of Britons think he has been a 'great' or 'good' leader during his five years in charge, whilst 30 per cent think he has been an average leader. YouGov surveyed 2,523 adults in Britain between 1 and 2 April, and 2,213 adults in Britain between 31 March to 1 April. A Reform UK candidate has been suspended from his party after tweeting support for the prolific rapist and sexual predator Jimmy Savile. Stephen Hartley, who was standing in the Banbury Hadrwick ward ahead of local elections next month, was revealed to have posted on X that Savile was a 'working class hero'. He made the tweet in 2022 and told the BBC that he may have 'forgotten' to disclose his X account to Reform UK. Mr Hartley added that he had doubts that allegations against the TV personality were true. It is believed that Savile preyed on roughly 500 victims, aged from five to 75 years old, who were assaulted in hospitals, schools, children's homes and even on BBC premises. Reform UK confirmed that Mr Hartley was suspended after being made aware of the posts and the party had 'withdrawn all support for his candidacy'. However, Mr Hartley will still appear on Oxfordshire County Council's ballot paper since his suspension was announced after the candidate lists were published. The former candidate said it was 'fair enough' that he had been suspended and revealed he used his X account 'sporadically when I just want to vent'. Stephen Hartley has been suspended from Reform UK as a candidate in upcoming elections after posting Jimmy Savile was a 'working class hero' Hundreds of allegations of rape and sexual abuse were made against the TV personality after he died When the scandal unfolded in 2012, the BBC was slammed for allowing a culture of sexual abuse during the 'Savile years' 'I understand Reform have got to be careful,' he added. Nigel Farage, the party's leader, has previously said that local election candidates would be vetted better than the Labour or Tory party after Reform UK were rocked by scandals last year. Reform UK candidates had posted antisemitic content ahead of the general election but the MP for Clacton had insisted similiar cases would not be repeated. Mr Farage said 'at the last election, Reform was an embryonic organisation' and 'it didn't have any vetting at all'. 'In fact, it just said 'Oh come all ye faithful. Anyone who wants to stand for us, just come and stand',' he added, insisting it was 'very, very different now' at a press event last week. 'We've applied much, much stricter vetting criteria for local election candidates than under the Conservatives and Labour Party. 'And will you find someone who tweeted something at some point? You will. But will you find somebody who persistently has said things that you find fundamentally offensive? No, you won't you absolutely.' When alive, Savile was one of the BBC's most popular presenters and figureheads, using his charitable image and political influence to to legitimise himself and go undetected while sexually abusing hundreds of children and young people. When the scandal unfolded in 2012, the BBC was slammed for allowing a culture of sexual abuse during the 'Savile years'. A leaked draft of an internal BBC report from 2016 read: 'Given the hierarchical structure, the impracticability of complaining to anyone other than a line manager and the weakness of the personnel department, the only option for a victim of inappropriate behaviour during the Savile years was to put up with it or leave.' King Charles was today dragged into the Chinese spy scandal engulfing Prince Andrew after new court documents claimed he was personally briefed about an investment fund involving the alleged agent. A witness statement made by Andrews senior aide Dominic Hampshire in support of Yang Tengbo who was banned from Britain on national security grounds said there were two meetings with Charles between December 2023 and May last year. Mr Hampshire, the duke and the King discussed what the Duke can do moving forwards in a way that is acceptable to His Majesty after his business opportunities dried up following disclosures about his relationship with billionaire American paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Part of their discussions centred around an investment vehicle called the Eurasia Fund, in which Yang was directly involved. The fund was intended to use Chinese investment in renewable energy projects in Africa but never got off the ground. There is no suggestion the King was aware of any security concerns relating to Yang. Mr Hampshire penned his witness statement in support of Yang in May last year after the Chinese businessman appealed to the Special Immigration Appeals Commission over the decision to bar him from Britain amid claims he was spying for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). He fought to keep the document private but it was released yesterday [Fri] following an application by various media organisations, including the Daily Mail. It detailed that, despite discussing business opportunities involving Yang who went by the anglicised name Chris with the King as recently as last year, Mr Hampshire had been made aware that there were concerns around the businessman as early as December 2021. King Charles was last night dragged into the Chinese spy scandal engulfing Prince Andrew after new court documents claimed he was personally briefed about an investment fund involving the alleged agent Yang Tengbo - who has since been banned from Britain on national security grounds - at an event alongside a laughing Prince Andrew, who is now facing questions about the pair's relationship Andrews senior aide Dominic Hampshire, a former soldier and equerry to the Duke of Kent, said there were two meetings between Yang, Prince Andrew and the King between December 2023 and May 2024 The former Army captain and equerry to the Duke of Kent, described how he was called in to see Sir Edward Young, the late Queens private secretary, that month. When Sir Edward said that concerns had been raised by the security services, Hampshire is said to have replied: We're doing quite a lot of work with Chris [Yang]. What do you expect me to do with this information? In his statement, he described the rest of the conversation. I said, words to the effect, that Chris is pretty much our only avenue for The Duke moving forward and arguably the only light at the end of the tunnel for him. Do you have a plan B?". 'Sir Edward said that he did not. I said that I could not accept this unless someone spoke to me directly and explained why. I did make it very clear to Sir Edward that if I was told something that genuinely may adversely affect The Duke (or my country) in any way whatsoever, I would of course cease all communication. He said he also sought advice from the Lord Chamberlain, then Lord Parker, former director general of MI5, but was rebuffed. The Lord Chamberlain wouldnt give me any advice and pretty much dismissed me, he said in his statement. He said it was five months before he was contacted by the intelligence services for a meeting where he was told there was concern about Chris, and that he has a level of influence. He was also asked about the Eurasia Fund and Yangs influence on the Duke of York. He wrote: In conclusion, I said are you asking me to stop?" She said, no, I can't ask you to stop. But we have genuine concerns about Chris and his influence on The Duke of York." That was the end of it, and I have not heard anything since. Yang Tengbo went by the more Anglicised name of Chris Yang in his business dealings in the UK Dominic Hampshire alleges that he, Andrew and the King discussed what the Duke can do moving forwards in a way that is acceptable to His Majesty after his business opportunities dried up following disclosures about his relationship with billionaire American paedophile Jeffrey Epstein The now-infamous photo of Prince Andrew, his accuser Virginia Giuffre and Jeffrey Epstein's close confidante Ghislaine Maxwell in Maxwell's London townhouse Mr Hampshires statement also revealed that Prince Andrew continues to send a letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping on his birthday every year. He claimed this was encouraged by Buckingham Palace. Documents previously released in the case show Mr Hampshire had thanked Yang for standing by Andrew following his 2019 Newsnight interview over his relationship with late billionaire sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Yang was also invited to Andrew's 60th birthday party and was integral in launching the dukes Dragons Den-style investment roadshow, Pitch@Palace, in China. In February 2023, Yang was off-boarded from a flight from Beijing to London and told he would be banned from the UK because of suspicions that he was an agent for the Chinese state. That decision was confirmed the following month by then Home Secretary Suella Braverman. In a statement released on Friday as his witness statement in support of Yang was made public, Mr Hampshire said: The desire to keep my witness statement out of the media was solely to protect the confidential interactions I had with Buckingham Palace and the intelligence services. At all times I sought to protect the best interests of the Royal Family with integrity and loyalty. For the record, as soon as The Duke of York was advised to cease all contact with Mr Yang, he fully complied. He did not receive a penny in funding or support, directly or indirectly, from any Chinese individual or entity. I am now a private businessman and none of my business interests are connected to any member of the Royal Family. Prince Andrew is interviewed by Emily Maitlis on BBC's Newsnight in which he denied a series of explosive claims Yang Tengbo says claims he is a spy are 'entirely unfounded'. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said tonight: While His Majesty met with The Duke and his adviser to hear outline proposals for independent funding over the past year, the individual known as H6 was not mentioned at any time or in any way as part of these discussions. Royal aides have long made clear the Kings concern about his brothers lifestyle and the issue of how he is funding his living his arrangements at 30-room Royal Lodge at Windsor has long been a bone of contention between them. The Mail understands that in his meetings with The King, The Duke may have briefly mentioned that he was pursuing business opportunities with an entity called the Eurasia Fund. However this fund was not discussed in any level of detail, nor did His Majesty or his advisers give approval to this business relationship or opportunity, it is claimed. It is also believed to have been discussed in common with many other organisations and individuals, and among a number of other proposals. Buckingham Palace has made clear it will not get drawn into commenting on individual assertions made in any witness testimony, however sources have strongly indicated it does not conform with their understanding and record of events. There was a strong sense of frustration tonight behind palace walls over Hampshires account, however. While there was no denial that the businessman met with the late Queens Private Secretary, Sir Edward Young, it was understood to have been made clear to him that it would been completely inappropriate to share confidential security information. Similarly when Hampshire says he was dismissed by the Lord Chamberlain, Lord Parker, it was because, even as a former head of the intelligence services, it would also have been a clear breach of his position to even have such a discussion with someone who wasnt even Andrews private secretary but merely a business advisor. Scotland's crime-busting digi dogs have helped collar dozens of criminals including paedophiles and sex traffickers after sniffing out more than 400 concealed devices. Police Scotlands four-strong pack of digital evidence detection dogs Digi-Dogs have been deployed 134 times and flushed out 416 stashed gadgets containing critical evidence against mobsters and sex offenders. The news comes amid a 2,000 per cent surge in cryptocurrency offences and what the force says is an industrial scale explosion of crime on the dark web. The canine detectives, deployed since last August, are specially trained to detect hidden digital gadgets such as smartphones, laptops, USB drives and tiny SIM cards. Police Scotland say criminals often use digital devices to store or transmit illegal content. The digi dogs poke their highly sensitive noses into homes, vehicles and commercial buildings where criminals ply their trade. Digital Evidence Detection Dog, Zen, is part of the pack sniffing out criminals' digital devices Dogs like Springer Spaniel Labrador, Xena, above, is part of the crack team of hounds Assistant Chief Constable Andy Freeburn has praised the work of his canine colleagues The dogs have flushed out 416 stashed gadgets containing critical evidence against criminals Successes have included the detection of a USB device in Aberdeen, found to contain vile child sexual abuse material; an air tag linked to a domestic stalking crime in Edinburgh; and a murder victims phone in Glasgow. A force spokesman said: People and businesses are spending more and more time online and criminals will use any means available to them to exploit vulnerabilities and any method at their disposal. Digital devices are becoming smaller in size and those involved in criminal activity are becoming more adept at hiding them. Searches by humans can be limited and the dogs will provide an additional capability which makes finding devices easier. Police Scotland is committed to keeping everyone safe and this addition to our search capabilities will ensure there is no hiding place for criminals, even in the digital world. The dogs are teamed with three specialist handlers and are deployed all over Scotland. Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Houston added: I commend the introduction of digital evidence detection dogs trained to detect a wide range of digital devices and digital forensics vans, allowing for at-scene triage of digital devices. The White House is said to be keen to back more anti-abortion activists facing prosecution in the UK, after a campaigner was convicted for protesting outside a Bournemouth abortion clinic. The US State Department has reportedly reached out to a pro-life Christian charity sseeking to talk to activists who have experienced 'censorship' of their beliefs, the Daily Telegraph reported. It comes after retired medical scientist Livia Tossici-Bolt, 64, was today convicted at Poole Magistrates Court of breaching a 'buffer zone' after displaying a sign which read 'Here to talk, if you want' near a Bournemouth abortion clinic on two days in March 2023. She was sentenced to a conditional discharge for two years for two charges of breaching a 'buffer zone' outside the abortion clinic and was ordered to pay 20,000 towards court costs and a 26 victim surcharge. Sam Samson, a senior official in the State Department, reportedly met Tossici-Bolt and the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), an international religious campaign group which has supported her case, in the UK a fortnight ago to discuss an approach. The Telegraph quoted a source 'familiar with trade negotiations' between the UK and US as saying that there should be 'no free trade without free speech'. The US State Department has been contacted by the Mail for comment. But Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds insisted free speech had not been part of tariff negotiations with the US. Livia Tossici-Bolt, 64, was found guilty at Poole Magistrates Court after holding up a sign which read 'Here to talk, if you want' near a Bournemouth abortion clinic on two days in March 2023 Before today's verdict, the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, & Labour (DRL), which sits within the US State Department, said in a statement on X: 'It is important that the UK respect and protect freedom of expression.' Tossici-Bolt's case and those of other anti-abortion campaigners also attracted the attention of US vice president JD Vance. During a speech in February, US vice president Vance highlighted the case of Adam Smith-Connor, who was convicted last year of breaching the same council-enacted buffer zone, suggesting it showed 'in Britain and across Europe, free speech, I fear, is in retreat'. But Number 10 insisted free speech was very much still alive and well in Britain, with a spokesman saying: 'The UK has a very proud tradition of free speech over many centuries.' Asked about Tossici-Bolt's conviction, the spokesman said while 'the right to protest is a cornerstone of our democracy' people don't have the right to 'harass' others. Tossici-Bolt was convicted of twice violating the Public Spaces Protection Order outside the facility, which is run by the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (Bpas). District Judge Orla Austin said while she accepted Tossici-Bolt's pro-life beliefs 'were truly held' the case 'is not about the rights and wrongs about abortion but about whether the defendant was in breach of the PSPO (Public Spaces Protection Order)'. The judge added of the defendant: 'She lacks insight that her presence could have a detrimental effect on the women attending the clinic, their associates, staff and members of the public. 'I am satisfied so that I am sure that the defendant did fail without reasonable excuse to comply with a requirement of the PSPO, namely she failed to leave the safe zone on both the 2nd of March and 3rd March 2023 when asked by an authorised officer.' The judge said that the costs fee of 20,000 was a "proportionate" contribution to the 64,709.59 requested by the prosecution which was presented by a KC and junior at the two-day magistrates' court trial. Police officers had told Tossici-Bolt to leave after a woman said she felt intimidated and harassed by her presence. She refused, claiming she was given no legitimate reason for doing so. She also rejected a fixed penalty notice that was issued to her. Speaking after her conviction, Tossici-Bolt said: 'This is a dark day for Great Britain. 'I was not protesting and did not harass or obstruct anyone. 'All I did was offer consensual conversation in a public place, as is my basic right, and yet the court found me guilty. 'Freedom of expression is in a state of crisis in the UK. What has happened to this country? 'The US State Department was right to be concerned by this case as it has serious implications for the entire Western world. 'I remain committed to fighting for free speech, not only for my own sake, but for all my fellow citizens. 'If we allow this precedent of censorship to stand, nobody's right to freely express themselves is secure. 'With ADF International's support, I will now consider all legal options.' Tossici-Bolt has been sentenced to a conditional discharge for two years for twice breaching the 'buffer zone' outside the abortion clinic Jeremiah Igunnubole, legal counsel for ADF UK, said: 'This is the first time in UK history that someone has been convicted for offering a conversation. 'This is a fine of 20,000 for nothing more than offering a conversation. 'The idea that Livia should be selling her house is grossly disproportionate. 'The nature of the special relationship (with the USA) is that we have shared values of freedom of speech and liberty. 'The slippery slope is very clear. In a free democratic society we must consider what is true. 'I am sure there are people across the world who consider this a despicable decision. 'The message is clear. If you hold pro-life views in a public place then there will be consequences.' The buffer zone at Ophir Road outside the abortion clinic was put in place on October 13 2022, and is in force from 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday. Buffer zones ban protests within 150 metres of a clinic or hospital providing abortion services in England and Wales and those convicted of breaking the law could face an unlimited fine. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council welcomed Tossici-Bolt's conviction, saying the buffer zone enforced in 2022 was there so patients and staff 'could safely access' the clinic 'without fear of intimidation'. A spokesman added: 'We will continue to monitor any alleged breaches of this PSPO and will take appropriate action when necessary.' The retired medical scientist said she had 'been dragged through court merely for offering consensual conversation' Bpas chief executive Heidi Stewart said: 'Bpas welcomes today's verdict which will protect women and the staff who provide abortion care. 'The clinic in Bournemouth has been subjected to decades of anti-abortion protests which resulted in more than 500 reports of harassment before this local safe access zone was brought into force. 'This case was never about global politics but about the simple ability of women to access legal healthcare free from harassment.' Vice President Kamala Harris was ridiculed Friday after she delivered gloating remarks in response to the stock market losses after President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs on global trade. Harris spoke at the Leading Women Defined Summit in Dana Point, California hosted by former CEO of BET Debra Lee. 'There were many things we knew would happen. Im not here to say I told you so,' she said with a laugh as the audience applauded and cheered. But her remarks drew fire online from critics who felt she sounded out of touch. 'Kamala cackling about fear while Americans are safer, borders are tighter, and prices are dropping under Trump,' X user Tiago Gomes wrote. 'That nervous laugh says it all, shes scared the grown-ups are back.' Others mocked Harris for her massive loss against Trump in the 2024 election. 'Says the woman who, in 3 months, spent $1.2B and left her campaign owing money. Sure, we will take financial advice from her,' wrote David McGraw on X. 'Given another chance, she still wouldn't win. Attempting to run someone that people actually voted for would maybe work better,' wrote Joel Keranen on X. Former Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at the Leading Women Defined Summit at the Ritz-Carlton on Thursday, April 3, 2025 in Dana Point, CA. ( Kamala Harris joked she was 'not here to say I told you so.' 'You dont get to say I told you so and you offered no alternative. If you had, you would have won,' wrote X user JT. Others were still unimpressed with her political skills. 'I can't believe she was even considered a possible candidate for President,' wrote Michael Chaney on X. Harris urged everyone in the room to stand up and fight for their beliefs despite the loss the left experienced in 2024. 'Theres great power in this room. And yes, the world is watching,' Harris said. 'But more importantly, there are people counting on us to be kind, to be fierce, and to be together.' Former U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra Governor Gavin Newsom is seen at a media event Harris criticized organizations and the American people for remaining silent in the face of Trump's early actions. 'We are seeing people stay quiet. We are seeing organizations stay quiet. We are seeing capitulating to clearly unconstitutional threats,' she added. Harris said she would continue to speak out, even though she has remained mostly out of the spotlight since losing the election. 'Ill see you out there. Im not going anywhere,' she said. Harris' remarks only add to speculation that she is considering running again for political office, despite her 2024 setback against Trump. The former vice president is reportedly considering entering the race to replace California Gov. Newsom who is term-limited and exploring a 2028 run for president. That race experienced a shakeup on Wednesday after Xavier Becerra, former HHS Secretary for President Joe Biden, announced his decision to enter the race. Democratic strategists in Washington, DC also expect Harris to run for president again, pointing to her significant name recognition in the party. Mother-of-three Kristil Krug still had her concealed weapon in her purse - which she'd recently obtained in fear of the man who'd been stalking her for months - when she was fatally bludgeoned and stabbed in the heart in the garage of her family home, a Colorado court heard Friday. The man stalking her, prosecutors allege, was the defendant now sitting charged with with her murder: Her husband of 17 years, Daniel Krug. A jury of nine men and six women heard opening arguments on Friday in the trial of Krug, 44, on charges of first-degree murder, stalking and criminal impersonation in the December 2023 death of his wife. 'Daniel Krug, over the course of two months prior to his wife's murder, posed as her distant ex-boyfriend,' Senior Deputy District Attorney Kate Armstrong said. 'He utilized a numb of different phone numbers as well as email accounts to terrorize her, as well as her children, by claiming to be actively surveilling her as well as threatening Kristil, as well as himself.' A tall and rail-thin Krug, wearing a brown jacket, glasses and neatly trimmed white hair, occasionally took notes during proceedings. He has pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors argued that the marriage between Kristil and Krug was crumbling; she had moved her belongings out of the bedroom they shared and was sleeping in her son's room. 'She had told her family that she had no love left for the defendant and, while initially she intended to remain within the marriage until the child turned 18, by October of 2023, it was time for a divorce,' the prosecutor said. That's around the same time Kristil began receiving messages claiming to be from a boyfriend she'd broken up with in 2000. Krug knew that this man, Jack Anthony Holland, had made several attempts to reconnect with Kristil in the intervening years, including during their marriage, according to the prosecution. The last time Kristil had heard from Holland was in 2016, and they'd mutually blocked each other on Facebook, the prosecutor said. Colorado mother of three Kristil Krug, 43, was found bludgeoned and stabbed to death in the garage of her home in December 2023 The victim's husband, Daniel Krug, now 44, is charged with first-degree murder, stalking and criminal impersonation in her death; prosecutors alleged he posed as her ex-boyfriend and executed a stalking campaign before murdering Kristil and attempting to deflect blame But messages started coming through beginning on October 2, 2023 by text and email that purported to be from Holland - including some that noted details, like Kristil's expired vehicle tags, implying she and her family were being watched. There was an emailed picture of Krug at his workplace. One message referred to a dentist's appointment Kristil had recently attended. Kristil didn't initially tell her husband - since the parents were 'essentially cohabitating and coparenting' but not romantically involved, the prosecution said - but by November, a terrified Kristil had told Krug and involved police. Police had completed wellness checks on both based on frightening information and had even conducted undercover operations to catch the 'stalker,' the prosecutor said. Also at the beginning of November, Kristil began receiving an array of unsolicited 'd*** pics' - and traced them to an ad placed in her name, and listing her phone number, on a hookup site. Investigators would later discover the ad had been placed by a fake Holland gmail account 'and on the wifi at the defendant's workplace at the Colorado Department of Public Health,' Armstrong said. Kristil was returning home from the morning school run when her husband, 'lying in wait for her ... assaulted her from behind, hitting her several times in the back of the head with a blunt object before stabbing her in the heart,' the prosecution argues Prosecutors now say that Krug had sent many of the text messages from a 'track phone,' or burner phone, which he'd purchased at a local Walgreens with a gift card registered to himself. When Kristil didn't immediately answer the first text he sent posing as Holland, the prosecutor said, Krug texted his own cell phone number 'test' and 'shortly after he responded to the track phone: "yeah,"' she said. The prosecution argued that Krug made google searches on his phone the day before the murder that were 'all related to head trauma' - including 'when is a head injury cause for concern,' what happens when you're knocked unconscious' and 'how hard for head trauma to go unconscious.' On the morning of December 16, Kristil dropped two of her children at school before returning home and pulling her car into the garage - but she 'never made it back into the house,' Armstrong said. Instead, she argued that Krug had disabled three of the four security cameras in the home and 'was lying in wait for her.' 'When she walked by him, he assaulted her from behind, hitting her several times in the back of the head with a blunt object before stabbing her in the heart,' the prosecutor said. Krug also scheduled delayed messages to himself from Kristil's phone after killing her to help with an alibi, the prosecution alleged. Kristil's body was discovered after Krug called police on December 16 for a wellness check, saying he hadn't heard from her in three hours. The discovery of Kristil's body prompted authorities to immediately track down Holland, who had a solid alibi and was an eight-hour drive away in Utah, the state where he now resides. He also had alibis for the times when the messages had been sent, Armstrong said. When presented with this information during interviews after his wife's murder, Krug responded: 'If it's not him, I have no other suggestion ... maybe she was having an affair. Maybe she was having multiple affairs,' Armstrong said Friday. 'And, when pressed a little further, the defendant rolls his eyes and says: "It's always the husband."' After seeing evidence like Krug's video interview and hearing from witnesses during the trial, including the ex involved, jurors will be left with 'no reasonable doubt that he stalked his wife and children for months before planning and deliberately and violently taking her life on December 14, 2023,' Armstrong said. Krug's defense, meanwhile, painted a picture of a police department that had ignored the concerns of Kristil and her husband. 'Incompetence, sloppiness, arrogance, abandonment and lack of motivation is why we're here,' Krug's lawyer said Friday. 'It was not what Kristil or Mr Krug wanted from them.' The defense told the court that the police department was celebrating a holiday party when Kristil's body was found and highlighted issues with investigative processes and search warrants, repeating and dwelling heavily on the five above accusations. An autopsy conducted the day after Kristils death found preliminarily that she'd suffered 'wo or more blunt-force trauma wounds on the back of her head and one stab wound on the left side of her chest.' Krug was arrested two days after his wifes murder. He was conspicuously left out of Kristils obituary, which remembered the Colorado native for the joy she brought into our lives, the beauty she shared through her art, and the intellect she brought to the scientific community. A GoFundMe was set up in December 2023 for the Krug children which had raised $64,226 as of Friday. Another crowdfunding page, which had been set up by Krugs family and supporters after his arrest for mounting a vigorous defense, countering these terrible accusations which had raised $6,225 by May 2024 - appeared to have vanished. The MSP who deserted the Scottish Tories before being deselected for his woke views has jumped ship to the Liberal Democrats. Jamie Greene was unveiled as Holyroods fifth LibDem MSP at the partys spring conference in Inverness. The 45-year-old Brexiteer claimed he had joined the Brexit-hating party because he stood for liberal values. Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton claimed he had sent a shockwave through British politics. Mr Greene was one of a handful of Tories to back the SNPs botched gender reforms at Holyrood - a cause vigorously supported by the LibDems. A Tory source said: Jamie will feel at home with gender extremists who believe double rapists are women - at least until Brexit comes up. A West Scotland list MSP since 2016, Mr Greene resigned the Tory whip on Thursday, saying the party he joined under Ruth Davidson no longer exists. He said it had become Trump-esque in both style and substance as it tried to fend off Nigel Farages Reform UK. Jamie Greene was unveiled as Holyroods fifth LibDem MSP at the partys spring conference MSP Jamie Greene joins Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, right, and Scottish leader Alex Cole-Hamilton, left, at the Liberal Democrat Scottish Conference in Inverness Mr Greene, a failed candidate in the race to lead the Scottish Tories last summer, had been facing deselection by party members who felt he was disconnected from the grassroots. David Rocks, chairman of the North Ayrshire and Arran Conservative and Unionist Association, told the Mail Mr Greene had a woke personal agenda, including gender reform, and would have struggled to get on the regional list for 2026. Introducing his friend to LibDem activists, Mr Cole-Hamilton said Mr Greene had a selfless compassion which is seldom seen in our line of work. He said: His decision to resign the Conservative Party whip has sent a shock wave through British politics. 'In time, it will be seen as a mile-marker of a realignment that has already started. He is, without doubt, a liberal.. Mr Greene said compassionate centre-right and decent Tories were scunnered with the endless culture wars and the fringe issues that my former party has become obsessed with. He said: The language of hatred, of right wing populism and of scapegoating people must be fought against and must be defeated. 'I trust in the goodness of the Scottish people. I trust them to take on that fight. 'I think Ive already been doing that, but perhaps just from the wrong place. UK Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey said it was great to have Mr Greene in the family, and said he was one of thousands of former Scottish Conservatives now turning to the Liberal Democrats. A Scottish Conservative spokesman said: Our party will continue to respect the results of referendums and oppose the SNPs dangerous gender ideology. Mr Greene is now well placed to be the lead LibDem candidate in West Scotland next year - although his new party hasnt won an MSP there since 2007. Reform UK today suspended one of their local election candidates after they were revealed to have praised sex predator Jimmy Savile as a 'working class hero'. Stephen Hartley, who was listed as a Reform candidate for Oxfordshire County Council, described the notorious paedophile as a 'innocent man' and a 'scapegoat'. He had been due to contest the Banbury Hardwick ward on behalf of Nigel Farage's party on 1 May. But Reform has now withdrawn its support and suspended him as a party member. Mr Hartley said it was 'fair enough' that he had been suspended over his social media posts about Savile. He admitted he 'may have forgotten' to tell party officials about his account on X, formerly known as Twitter. Yet he stood by his comments about Savile and claimed the allegations against the late DJ and TV presenter 'were never proven'. Savile was exposed as a prolific sex offender following his death in 2011, with police and the NSPCC outlining hundreds of crimes - including rape - over 50 years. Stephen Hartley, who was listed as a Reform candidate for Oxfordshire County Council, described Jimmy Savile as a 'innocent man' and a 'scapegoat' Savile was exposed as a prolific sex offender following his death in 2011, with police and the NSPCC outlining hundreds of crimes - including rape - over 50 years. In social media posts in 2021 and 2022, Mr Hartley claimed Savile was a 'scapegoat', a 'real working class hero', and a 'role model' who faced 'bogus' allegations In social media posts in 2021 and 2022, Mr Hartley claimed Savile was a 'scapegoat', a 'real working class hero', and a 'role model' who faced 'bogus' allegations. Responding to the posts, Sean Woodcock, Labour MP for Banbury, told the Oxford Mail: 'Mr Hartley should be nowhere near public office with such appalling views.' Liz Leffman, the Liberal Democrat leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: 'It is shocking that the Reform party has allowed someone with these unacceptable views to be a candidate. 'The lack of integrity that the Reform party has demonstrated by allowing him to stand is an abuse of the public's trust in the democratic process.' But, when contacted for comment, Mr Hartley told the newspaper: 'I stand by my claims that Jimmy Savile was a working-class hero. 'These allegations were never proven and really how it came out after his death was the worst thing.' He added the 'campaign' against Savile was 'not a true reflection of who he was'. Mr Hartley also told the BBC it was 'fair enough' that Reform had suspended him over the posts. 'I may have forgotten to tell them about my Twitter account, which I use sporadically when I just want to vent,' he added. 'I understand Reform have got to be careful.' A Reform UK spokesman said: 'Mr Hartley has been suspended as a member and is now not a Reform UK candidate. 'We have subsequently withdrawn all support for his candidacy.' Mr Hartley will still appear on ballot papers as a Reform candidate, as his suspension was announced after candidate lists were published. An urgent search is underway for a 16-year-old boy who has gone missing after getting into difficulty at a popular swimming spot. The teenager disappeared in the lake in Beckenham Place park in Lewisham, south London, just after 3pm today. The park has been closed and members of the public evacuated due to the 'serious' incident', Lewisham Council said. Specialist firefighters with oxygen tanks and a police helicopter were spotted in the park this afternoon. Police said the 16-year-old's family has been informed and they are being supported by officers. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: 'Police were called at 15:08hrs on Friday, 04 April to Beckenham Place park. 'A 16-year-old boy is believed to have got into difficulty in the water and is now missing. 'Emergency services are currently co-ordinating a search. An urgent search is underway for a 16-year-old who is missing after getting into difficulty in a lake The park has been closed and members of the public evacuated due to the 'serious' incident', Lewisham Council said Specialist firefighters with oxygen tanks and a police helicopter were spotted in the park this afternoon 'The next of kin has been informed and are currently being supported by specialist officers. 'The park has been evacuated to facilitate the search.' Lewisham Council posted on X at 5.20pm: 'We are aware of a serious incident at Beckenham Place Park. Council staff are supporting the Police on site. 'The park is currently closed.' This is a breaking news story - more to follow She was targeted by the Nazis for shielding Jewish children at a Church of Scotland school in Hungary. And now heroic matron Jane Haining, who died in the Auschwitz concentration camp is to be the subject of a new documentary. The Scot missionary was abducted by the German troops in 1944 and used as slave labour at the infamous death camp in Poland where she perished months later, aged 47. Her bravery has seen her commemorated at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, Israels memorial to Holocaust victims. Last night, the Kirk welcomed the production of the new film, which is set to be shown in schools across Scotland. Pam Mitchell, an elder at the parish church in Dunscore Miss Hainings home village in Dumfriesshire - said: With her Christian values, Jane showed kindness, fairness and compassion to all her pupils. Her example, to stand up for what she believed in may help young people to become more confident in speaking out, and acting against prejudice. Who she was and what she stood for is still very important in our world today. Jane Haining was abducted by the Nazis in 1944 and used as slave labour at the infamous death camp in Poland where she died months later, aged 47 Auschwitz-Birkenau was the largest German Nazi concentration and death camp Miss Haining grew up on a farm, excelled at Dumfries Academy, then worked in a factory in Paisley, Renfrewshire, before becoming matron at the Scottish Mission School in Budapest in 1932. She looked after 400 Jewish and Christian girls aged between six and 16, many of them boarders. When war broke out in 1939, she ignored calls from the Kirk for her to return home, reasoning: If these children need me in days of sunshine, how much more do they need me in days of darkness? Hitlers forces invaded Hungary in spring 1944, leaving the countrys Jewish population in grave danger. Troops arrived at the school, tipped off by the cooks son-in-law who Miss Haining had scolded for stealing food from the kitchen. As she was arrested, she told sobbing pupils: Dont worry, Ill be back by lunch. However, she was jailed and then transported by cattle truck to Auschwitz in May 1944. She died following a severe bout of gastroenteritis though some fear she was actually a victim of the gas chambers. Former pupils Judit Beck and Agnes Rostas hold a school photograph of them with Ms Haining The documentary is being made by the Unison trade union, which organises trips to Auschwitz. Among those interviewed is Miss Hainings niece Deirdre McDowell. She said: Jane had a strong Christian faith and for her to move to Budapest alone, a city where she knew no one, and learn the language was an amazing thing to do. But she felt that as long as she had God with her and followed Christs teachings, she would be alright, and that was her maxim throughout her life. Jane was an ordinary yet extraordinary person and her sacrifice shows that little things can mean so much. She did not do anything huge; she looked after children and was a humble, kind, brave and compassionate person. If we followed her example and treated our fellow human beings like she did, the world would be a much more wonderful place. Unisons Scottish convener, Mark Ferguson, said: Our study tours allow individuals to learn about the Holocaust and feel connected more closely through Jane Hainings story. We have commissioned a film to illustrate our work, Janes story and the Scottish connection to the horrific events at Auschwitz. The documentary will be launched next year and piloted in Renfrewshire schools before a possible extended run across the country. New York City Mayor Eric Adams, fresh off his corruption case being dismissed by a federal judge, appeared on a podcast and said he believes the 'deep state' is real. President Donald Trump and his closest allies have spent the last eight years talking about how to dismantle this so-called shadowy group of unelected bureaucrats hellbent on sabotaging Trump's policies. Those who believe in the deep state 'conspiracy theory' generally posit that unelected officials embedded in agencies like the CIA and FBI are the ones really pulling the strings of the US government - not the president or Congress. Adams now counts himself as a believer, crediting FBI director Kash Patel's 2023 book on the subject as the thing that swayed him. 'Kash was in the [Department of Defense]. He was in the FBI. He prosecuted terrorists,' Adams said Wednesday on 'Flagrant', a podcast hosted by comedian Andrew Schultz. 'So he comes with this wealth of knowledge, and the way he breaks it down, it's just unbelievable what this deep state is about and and why it's so important for Americans that we cannot have a weaponizing of our prosecutorial powers,' he continued. Adams, who announced this week he was leaving the Democratic party to run for re-election as mayor, described the deep state as a 'permanent government' that happily waits out presidents and mayors. After Schultz said the term is used too much, Adams cut him off and said, 'It's not used too much. It's real, brother.' New York City Mayor Eric Adams (pictured alongside New York Governor Kathy Hochul and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton) admitted he now believes in the 'deep state,' a so-called group of deep-cover individuals that truly run the US government, according to the conspiracy theory President Donald Trump and his closest allies have been talking about the deep state for going on eight years Adams' admission comes after he beat his corruption case, following a surprise intervention in February by the Department of Justice on his behalf (Pictured: Adams arrives at Manhattan federal court) Adams' stunning admission comes after the Department of Justice in February forced the Southern District of New York (SDNY) to drop the corruption charges it was pursuing against the embattled mayor. Prosecutors trying the case, which began last September under the Biden administration, alleged that Adams took illegal bribes from the Turkish government in the form of fully-paid-for luxury air travel and stays at lavish hotels in Turkey. In exchange, prosecutors said Adams allegedly pressured the New York City Fire Department to open a Turkish government-owned high rise in Manhattan despite the building failing safety inspections. At least four prosecutors with the SDNY, including acting US Attorney Danielle Sassoon, resigned in protest after the order to drop the case came down from then-acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove. Bove argued that the charges against Adams were politically motivated, adding that the prosecution had been 'unduly' limiting the mayor's ability to 'devote full attention and resources to the illegal immigration and violent crime that has escalated under the policies of the prior Administration.' This part of the order from Bove, himself an SDNY prosecutor once, sparked speculation that there was a quid-pro-quo between Adams and Trump that if he assisted with the White House's mass deportation efforts, the charges against him would be dropped. Trump has said he did not personally order the charges to be dropped, though he has also said they 'looked to be very political.' Critics also said evidence of a quid pro quo was evident in a joint Fox News appearance between Adams and border czar Tom Homan, who said if Adams violated 'the agreement we came to' on enforcement, he'd be 'in his office.' Adams and border czar Tom Homan appeared on Fox News in February just days after the corruption case was dropped by the Department of Justice. The two discussed immigration enforcement President Donald Trump has claimed he knew nothing about the charge against Adams being dropped. In his podcast appearance Adams said that anyone who believes Trump interceded on his behalf has 'Trump derangement syndrome' Adams began his reversal on immigration policy in February 2024, seven months before he was charged, when he declared that New York should no longer be a sanctuary city. Adams who has suggested the charges he once were faced politically motivated, appeared to take issue with the SDNY being independent of the executive branch. 'Now imagine the Southern District of New York that's one of the most powerful US attorney's offices. In their mind, they said, "We're sovereign." You know what that means?' he said on Schultz's podcast. 'They dont have to answer to anyone they dont have to answer to the president, they dont have to answer to the US attorney in Washington, the attorney general in Washington. They believe theyre a sovereign entity,' Adams claimed. 'Youre not elected,' Adams said of the SDNY. 'You know what Im saying? Imagine an entity believing they dont have to answer to anyone.' Adams also said that anyone who believes Trump interceded on his behalf has 'Trump derangement syndrome.' Jessica A. Roth, a former SDNY prosecutor, told The New York Times in February that the SDNY's sovereignty status is crucial for it to maintain prosecutorial independence. In her resignation letter, Sassoon argued much the same, saying that dismissing the case against Adams 'will amplify, rather than abate, concerns about weaponization of the Department [of Justice].' Some of the decisions had seemed inevitable long before they were made public. Nobody seriously expected former First Ministers Nicola Sturgeon and Humza Yousaf to seek reelection to the Scottish Parliament next year, did they? And announcements from Douglas Ross and Richard Leonard, former leaders of, respectively, the Scottish Tories and Labour that they were moving on were just as unsurprising. What is striking, however, is the number of MSPs whove decided to join this exodus from the Scottish Parliament. Were into the dozens, now, and theres plenty of time for numbers to swell before parties must select their candidates for next Mays election. There are quitters across the political spectrum but most remarkable is just how many SNP MSPs are among them. So far, more than 20 nationalist members have chosen not to stand again. Meanwhile, a number of former SNP MPs who lost their seats at last years general election have put themselves forward as potential Holyrood candidates. The stitch-ups and deals playing out right now dont inspire much hope. Across Scotland, we see rejects vying to replace has-beens. Reading the list of those preparing to depart Holyrood - a real whos that? of Scottish politics - a thought occurs: How will we know they were ever there? A number of former SNP MPs who lost their seats at last years general election have put themselves forward as potential candidates for the Scottish Parliament, above Former SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon is among more than 20 nationalist members who have chosen not to stand again What are the achievements of those ministers and backbenchers wholl soon be off to spend more time with their fat pensions and their consulting fees? The most high profile of those ready to leave Holyrood is, of course, Nicola Sturgeon, a politician who can - at least - boast a legacy. After almost nine years as First Minister, Ms Sturgeon can be assured she will be remembered as the leader who fought to remove womens rights at the behest of trans activists while running the NHS into the ground and abandoning her promises to improve standards in Scottish schools. The majority of those wholl leave Holyrood next year will go without leaving a trace. Across all areas of policy, the Scottish Parliament is currently failing to make any kind of positive difference. Rhetoric and reality is never in the same vicinity and promises blithely made by ministers about investment and improvement are routinely broken. Recent polling on public services found Scots are dissatisfied and that they know who to blame. Years of the SNP pointing the finger at Westminster has failed to persuade voters that the Scottish Government is not responsible for its own actions. First Minister John Swinney humiliated the deputy Israeli ambassador by apologising for a meeting with her after they were criticised by infantile SNP members, writes Euan McColm When the Scottish Parliament first convened in 1999, there was great pageantry. The countrys first First Minister Donald Dewar spoke poetically of Scotlands past and of a future of possibilities, the potential of the nation unleashed by the devolution of power. This was all deeply rousing stuff. But a healthy parliament and good government are not created by the poetry recited by leaders. Rather, these things need talented, dedicated parliamentarians, intellectually curious and willing to challenge orthodoxies. Elected members of such calibre are in desperately short supply in the Scottish Parliament today. As part of her effort to persuade us she was more than just a monomaniacal nationalist, obsessed with breaking up the United Kingdom at any cost, Nicola Sturgeon frequently asked that she be judged on her stewardship of Scotlands education system. The former First Minister made this request safe in the knowledge that her supporters - equally convinced as she of the cure-all powers of independence - would never actually comply. The bleak truth is that standards in literacy and numeracy among Scottish schoolchildren remain worryingly low because Ms Sturgeon was more interested in agitating on the constitution and on behalf of trans-identifying men than she was in delivering on the promises shed made. Anyone who has had the misfortune of falling ill will know only too well the impact of political failure on the NHS. No matter how dedicated doctors and nurses may be, they are not miracle workers. Medical staff are being asked to meet impossible targets on waiting times and treatment by politicians who continue to underfund the NHS and to shy away from any kind of meaningful reform. Again, Ms Sturgeons fingerprints are all over this particular policy crime scene. As health secretary in the first SNP government at Holyrood, she acted as manager rather than innovator, taking the view that the nationalists objective of ending the Union was better served by avoiding potential conflict with any vested interest groups. The sense of wasted opportunity is overwhelming. The entire point of the Scottish Parliament was to allow politicians to more quickly and effectively respond to the priorities of the people but not only have MSPs failed on the big issues that matter to most voters, they havent even tried. Sometimes it seems Holyrood has become a parliament of symbolism rather than action. Decisions made by the government and supported by its cronies in the Greens and Liberal Democrats seem designed not for what they will achieve but for what they might say. When Scots voted, back in 1997, to give the new parliament the power to vary tax rates, I do not believe they did so hoping that one day the government would make workers here the most heavily taxed in the UK. But in order for Nicola Sturgeon to tell her story of Scotland being uniquely progressive, this deeply unfair situation had to be created. It is of course easy - and often deeply cathartic - for the smart aleck columnist to mock the calibre of Scotlands politicians. It is easy because they make it so. We cannot pretend we havent seen their displays of stupidity. We cannot pretend disasters from the failed attempt to allow people to self-identify into the legally-recognised sex of their choosing to the ferries fiasco did not happen. We cannot pretend that the Scottish Government could not even organise a bottle deposit return scheme, for Heavens sake. We cannot pretend that, even now, members of the SNP, the Scottish Greens and The Liberal Democrats at Holyrood are unable to give a clear and accurate answer to the question What is a woman? And we cannot forget that First Minister John Swinney and cabinet secretary Angus Roberston humiliated the deputy Israeli ambassador by apologising for a meeting with her after they were criticised by infantile SNP members. All of those things and more tell the story of a parliament dominated by politicians detached from the people. There are those, particularly on the far right, who would close Holyrood down tomorrow. The argument for doing so - wrong though I believe it to be - can only be helped by the ongoing failure of MSPs to show how Holyrood can benefit Scots. More thoughtful members of Scotlands mainstream parties worry that anti-devolution voices will have a growing audience next year. There is space, one senior SNP MSP concedes, for a populist message that says Holyrood has failed. Scotlands political class really is its own worst enemy. MSPs from across the debating chamber indulge themselves with posturing speeches on issues for which they have no responsibility and over which they have no power. From motions at Holyrood condemning Donald Trump to speeches in the chamber about conflict in the middle east, too much parliamentary time is taken up with performance rather than debate. This sort of behaviour is not without risks, as SNP members have recently been reminded. For years, the nationalists have used the Holyrood chamber to make arguments over defence that are the preserve of Westminster. Successive SNP leaders relished attacking opponents for their support of the retention of nuclear weapons. Now, in light of Donald Trumps so what? position on Russian aggression against Ukraine, that SNP anti-nukes position looks naive at best. Polls currently suggest that the SNP could win a fifth successive Holyrood election next year. And by the looks of things, much of the nationalist group will be made up of politicians who previously lost seats at Westminster. I dont know about you but that doesnt sound like a recipe for a dynamic government to me. Few of those MSP preparing to leave Holyrood will be missed. We are waving goodbye to an unusually uninspiring generation of politicians, to a rabble of also-rans and careerists whove not so much made their mark on public life as left it lightly smeared. The priorities of the Scottish people are clear. Poll after poll tells politicians we want better schools, a stronger NHS, and a healthier economy. Holyrood is not serving Scots well. If Scotlands mainstream parties cant return focus to those things that matter to voters, they will only have themselves to blame when they make space in our politics for dangerous populists. Ex-Reform MP Rupert Lowe has had his personal gun collection 'seized by police' after he was expelled from the party over bullying and harassment allegations. The 67-year-old's weapons were confiscated from his Cotswold farm last month amid claims he verbally threatened Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf. An investigation is also being conducted over reports Mr Lowe and 'male members of his team' harassed two women. The Great Yarmouth MP has repeatedly denied the allegations and accused party veteran Nigel Farage of a 'malicious witch hunt' saying the supposed conspirators have been motivated 'to remove me because I dared to ask questions'. Speaking to the Daily Express following news of the recent police seizure, Mr Lowe said: 'I am 67 years old, and I have a 67-year-long unblemished record with the law. 'These are false allegations, designed to maliciously smear my name and ruin my reputation after I dared to bruise Farage's ego.' He added disruption on his life had been 'significant' and 'incredibly damaging' for his family. Mr Lowe said: 'Weaponising the police process to vindictively attack and silence a party colleague is unprecedented wickedness.' The 67-year-old's weapons were confiscated from his Cotswold farm last month amid claims he verbally threatened Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf Mr Lowe said disruption on his life had been 'significant' and 'incredibly damaging' for his family. Pictured: Reform MP Rupert Lowe and wife Nicky at Cheltenham races 2025 The Great Yarmouth MP has repeatedly denied the reports and accused party veteran Nigel Farage (pictured) of a 'malicious witch hunt' The comments come after Mr Lowe lost the whip on March 7 - two days after he had claimed in an interview with the Mail that Reform UK was a 'protest party' led by 'the Messiah' [Farage]. Mr Lowe said he had been 'targeted' as a result of the comments. Reform's deputy leader Richard Tice denied claims of a link between the decision to suspend Mr Lowe and the accusations being made public. A party spokesman said: 'Mr Lowe is being investigated by the police for making multiple threats to kill our chairman. The first was in December, the second in February. Unlike Mr Lowe, we respect their investigation and will let them do their work without lashing out and making false claims in public.' An independent report into Mr Lowe's behaviour published last week found 'credible evidence of unlawful harassment of two women'. Investigator Jacqueline Perry KC said Mr Lowe 'seems to have failed or been unwilling to address the very real concerns' of the complainants, or 'address the toxic conduct' around him. The barrister was asked by Reform UK to investigate Mr Lowe, whose suspension last month triggered the astonishing public spat with Nigel Farage and the wider party leadership. However, an 'independent' review, commissioned by law firm Irwin Mitchell LLP on behalf of Mr Lowe and published today, claimed the KC who investigated the politician had 'produced' witness statements on behalf of the complainants following lengthy telephone interviews. In the report released by Reform, Ms Perry (pictured) said Mr Lowe 'seems to have failed or been unwilling to address the very real concerns' of the two complainants, or ''address the toxic conduct'' of male members of his staff' It added that 'no terms of reference were ever set by the party' and that the report was provided to Reform before the expiry of the deadline set for Mr Lowe to respond to allegations made against him'. The author of the review, named as Gemma White KC, wrote: 'In addition to being unfair to Mr Lowe the sequence of events which led up to provision of the report to the party gives rise to real questions as to the extent to which the KC conducted the investigation independently of the influence of the party.' Following publication of the review, Mr Lowe said: 'Nigel Farage must never be prime minister'. The now-Independent MP is known for being particularly vocal on X - formerly Twitter. His recent pronouncements include calling for a ban on Halal slaughter in the UK and comments like 'if you come to our country, you speak English'. The Mail last month revealed that Mr Lowe had been hosting a dinner party for potential donors just hours before he was reported to police by colleagues at Reform UK. The revelation the Reform MP was still hosting fundraising events alongside treasurer Nick Candy undermined claims by some in his party he was out of control and no longer a team player. Mr Lowe introduced prospective backers to Mr Candy at the exclusive private dining club Oswalds in Londons Mayfair. Former Conservative donor Nick Candy (R) poses for a photo with Nigel Farage Mr Lowe introduced prospective financial backers to Mr Candy at the exclusive private dining club Oswald's Rupert Lowe, pictured here with his wife Nicky, is facing an independent investigation into claims of bullying at his offices The event took place the same day Mr Lowe told the Mail in an interview that it was too early to judge if leader Nigel Farage could become PM, insisting Reform had to change from being a protest party led by the Messiah into a properly structured party. Last month, Mr Farage was said to have 'downplayed' the impact of the furious public row with Mr Lowe insisting those upset were at the 'edges' of the party. Appearing at a London press conference on March 17 where Reform unveiled 29 council defectors ahead of local elections on May 1, the party leader admitted there had been 'turbulence'. But he added: 'Has it caused some consternation? 'Of course it has any argument that's seen to happen within the family does, but I can promise you that in terms of our progress and our planning, that upset is very much at the edges.' A hero soldier from The Great War will finally be laid to rest later this year after DNA tests proved his identity. Lieutenant James Allan died aged just 20 on the first day of the infamous Battle of Loos on September, 25, 1915. An official report later said the officer of the 9th Gordon Highlanders was last seen rallying some infantry in a most gallant manner. His body lay undiscovered for 108 years until found by builders working on the construction of a new hospital in Lens, France. War records and the discovery of buttons from his battalion led researchers to believe the remains could belong to Lt Allan, who hailed from Edinburgh. In December 2023, Lt Allans great nephew Nicholas Allan, 55, was shocked to receive a letter from the Ministry of Defence, asking him to provide a DNA sample following the surprise discovery. He was told he could be one of 14 possible descendants to soldiers killed in the area. In January this year the chef, from Stroud, Gloucestershire, was told that his DNA was a match and that the remains were of his great uncle. Lieutenant James Grant Allan, the 9th Gordon Highlanders Battalion, died in 1915 James Grant Allan and his brother Nimmo Allan stand proudly together in 1914 Nicholas Allan, a chef from Stroud, stands with a photo of his Great Uncle, James Grant Allan Mr Allan said: I was completely blown away, it stopped me in my tracks and it woke me up from the every day, getting on with your job and worrying about whether Ive got enough in the bank to pay the next bill. It took me out, and I went wow, Ive got roots going back 110 years ago to the First World War. The hairs on my back started to rise, I was gobsmacked. It completely changed my whole outlook in that moment, I was awake to a different relationship to just being a guy running a cafe. A letter, written by a Private George Ferguson and addressed to the fallen officers parents, dated January 1, 1916, says he was lying on his stomach very peaceful looking following his death in the trenches. The private, who was taken prisoner by the Germans, goes on to describe the sky as raining bullets, during the bloody battle. In Lt Allans last letter home, to his elder sister Margaret, postmarked August 4, 1915, he wrote that the uselessness of the war had been impressed upon him and asked his family to send him some matches. His great nephew says his own family members didnt really talk about their fallen ancestor, who was sent to war while he was in his second year of university studying Arts. He added: I remember as a little 12-year-old, my dad taking me to Edinburgh Castle, to the memorial plaque of those who had passed. Mr Allan's batallion - the 9th Gordon Highlanders - on the march A letter from Pvt George Ferguson describing Lieutenant James Allan's death to Lieutenant James Allan's family. The second half of the letter from Pvt George Ferguson to Lieutenant James Allan's family. He said, Look, thats your great uncle. I only clocked, Oh, its a relative and he died in the Great War. According to the National Army Museum, the Battle of Loos saw 50,000 British casualties, almost double the number of German losses, and was the first time the British Army used gas as a weapon. In September this year, 110 years on from his death, Lt Allan will be laid to rest in Lens, with full military honours. To pay tribute to their Great Uncles memory Mr Allan and his younger brother Christopher plan to wear kilts to the event made from one of 16 possible Allan tartans. He said: Although the Brits outnumbered the Germans, the Germans were far more organised and they just had very good machine gun positions, and just mowed them down. They kept on being sent out. It was a classic scenario in the First World War, where these guys were literally sent over the trenches into bloody machine gun fire, it was just kind of nuts. An Alabama lunch lady was arrested this week after allegedly confessing to having sex with a student. Amy Nicole Wigginton, 41, reportedly admitted to having sex with the boy on at least two separate occasions at her home in March 2025. A lunch lady in the Lauderdale County School system in Lauderdale, Alabama, Wigginton often shared images to social media with her husband and children. Wigginton was arrested last week after officers confronted her over the allegations. She was interviewed by police, and after making her confession she was charged with two counts of a school employee engaging in a sex act or deviant sexual intercourse with a student. It is unclear how old the student was, with a court document obtained by WAFF48 noting that they were 'enrolled in (her) school' and is 'under the age of 19.' The age of consent in Alabama is 16 years old. But sex abuse charges can be filed in cases involving victims aged up to 18 if the suspect is an adult whose job it is to care for them. Wigginton was booked into the Lauderdale County Jail and is being held on a $100,000 bond. Alabama lunch lady Amy Nicole Wigginton, 41, was arrested this week after confessing to having sex with a student Wigginton reportedly admitted to having sex with the boy on at least two separate occasions in March 2025 A lunch lady in the Lauderdale County School system in Lauderdale, Alabama, Wigginton often shared images to social media with her husband Records state that Wigginton waived her rights after her arrest and made a confession to authorities. In a statement following her arrest, the Lauderdale County School System said: 'he Lauderdale County Board of Education is aware of the allegations, and the employee has been placed on administrative leave. 'We will continue to cooperate with law enforcement officials, and have no further comment on this matter.' A migrant branded a 'mother's worst nightmare' raped and killed a young jogger then dragged her heavily-bleeding body to a culvert and dumped it, a court heard. Victor Antonio Martinez-Hernandez, 23, was hit with the grim epithet as he stood trial for the August 2023 murder of the 37 year-old jogger in Baltimore Friday. Prosecutor Alison Healy said Martinez-Hernandez - accused of a separate murder in his native El Salvador before sneaking into the US - left a large 150 foot trail of blood after murdering Morin in the city's Belair neighborhood. The culvert where he's said to have left mother-of-five Morin to die had its walls completely covered with blood, with the jogger 'left to die in a puddle of water,' nearby, the Baltimore Sun reported. Morin's mother Patricia could be seen struggling to hold back tears and grimacing Friday as Healy told of how the victim suffered 15 to 20 head wounds - some 'deep.' The horrifying opening statement detailed how Morin's cellphone was smashed while her smartwatch was discarded during her violent final moments. Martinez-Hernandez went on the run after the killing, it was said, until he was finally arrested in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in June 2024 after his DNA was allegedly found at the scene. A search of his phone showed he had searched for the terms 'Bel Air,' 'Rachel' and an incorrect spelling of her surname after the murder, the court was told. Morin's 14 year-old daughter Violet Custer took the stand Friday to share how she'd slept in while her mom ran errands on the day she was killed. Victor Antonio Martinez-Hernandez, 23, dragged Rachel Morin's body for 150 feet after he murdered her, according to prosecutors Rachel Morin's suspected killer has appeared in court for the first time in a pretrial hearing which postponed the next court date to April 1, 2025 Custer began to panic later that evening after her mom's messages went unanswered and the phone number no longer made a dial tone when called. Defense attorneys accused Custer of inconsistencies in her story and the child could be heard crying hysterically after completing her evidence. Morin's boyfriend Richard Tobin reported her missing to police that evening. He went to the hiking trail he knew Morin frequented and found her green Dodge minivan there. A search party found her body the next day and contacted Tobin, who told the court that the news had left him hysterical. Martinez-Hernandez is believed to have entered the United States illegally in 2023. The body of the 37-year-old mom-of-five was discovered in a tunnel along a popular hiking trail in Bel Air, Maryland The suspect in Morin's murder has been linked by DNA to a home invasion and assault in LA back in March 2023 and had an outstanding murder warrant in El Salvador Morin was reported missing by her boyfriend Richard Tobin (pictured together) after she went for a run on hiking trails and failed to return He murdered a woman in El Salvador, it is said and went on to assault a mother an daughter during a home invasion in LA, investigators believe. None of that evidence will be admitted during his murder trial. He denies charges of rape and murder. Sawyer Hicks, representing Martinez-Hernandez, claimed there were gaps in the case against his client. He suggested Morin's murder was a crime of passion and hinted that Morin's boyfriend may have been involved. Martinez-Hernandez appeared in court Friday in a crisp white button-down shirt. He showed almost no emotion and used headphones to hear a Spanish translation of the proceedings. His defense attorney cast doubt on the DNA evidence during his opening statements. He is facing six charges, including second and first degree murder, rape and kidnapping, which he denies. Morin's mom Patty Morin said that her daughter's death could have been prevented if there was tighter security at the border which could have picked up an outstanding warrant for the suspect in relation to another crime If convicted, prosecutors are seeking life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Morin's murder inflamed debates about illegal immigrants after details of his previous alleged crimes emerged. Morin's mother, Patty Morin, last month criticized the immigration policies of the Biden-Harris administration. She shared heartbreaking testimony in congress during a hearing titled, 'A Country Without Borders: How the Biden-Harris Open-Borders Policies Have Undermined Our Safety and Security.' 'If they had done the border protocols that were in place but was set aside, just a simple DNA swab, they would know that he had a INTERPOL warrant for murder in his home country,' Morin said to the House Committee on Homeland Security. Donald Trump said Morin's murder was a horrific example of the president failing in his basic duty to protect American citizens. The decision to abort a child is seldom, if ever, taken lightly. It can be emotionally painful to the point of trauma and, once completed, a termination often results in profound feelings of loss. So, the idea that, after making such a difficult choice, a woman should be challenged or harassed by a stranger outside the abortion clinic is cruel and wrong. But what if that person is silently holding a sign saying: 'Here to talk if you want'? Is that harassment or an expression of genuine concern that the woman may be doing something she will later regret? At Poole Magistrates' Court yesterday, Livia Tossici-Bolt, 64, a retired medical scientist, was convicted of holding such a sign within 150 metres of a Bournemouth Abortion Clinic in breach of a Public Spaces Protection Order. She was given a conditional discharge and ordered to pay 20,000 in costs. Judge Orla Austin noted the defendant's 'sincerely motivated desire' to encourage conversation about abortion but said her rights to free expression had to be balanced against the upset caused to women and staff at the clinic. But is that balance in the right place? Outside court Dr Tossici-Bolt said: 'All I did was offer consensual conversation in a public place, as is my basic right, and yet the court found me guilty. What has happened to this country?' Many will worry that free speech seems to be in retreat in Britain. British anti-abortion activist Livia Tossici-Bolt was found guilty of breaching a 'buffer zone' outside Bournemouth clinic Cancel culture, deplatforming, the vigilantism of critical race theorists and trans rights extremists have all contributed to a new climate of censorship. Whatever one's view on abortion, it's hard to imagine many other circumstances in which holding up a non-confrontational sign in a public place could cost you 20,000. Yet new legislation under Section 9 of the Public Order Act widens the scope of existing law and increases the severity of punishment. Engaging in 'silent prayer' anywhere near a clinic may be punishable by unlimited fines, as would trying to 'influence' women accessing the service. Ministers frame the legislation in terms of female empowerment, safe spaces and the right to choose, and all those things are, of course, hugely important. Women must be protected from potential harm. But shouldn't the criminalisation of prayer and attempts by a polite 64-year-old woman to strike up a consensual conversation make us all feel a little queasy? The storm gathers So, the counter-offensive begins. China imposed a swingeing 34 per cent on all US imports yesterday. This weekend, the EU is poised to take similar action in retaliation against Donald Trump's orgy of tariffs. Global markets have tanked, with the US among the worst hit. Pensions, savings and investment returns are in freefall. U.S. President Donald Trump revealed new tariffs at the White House this week Whether this is the start of a fully-fledged and prolonged trade war, or Mr Trump will suddenly change direction (as he is wont to do), remains to be seen. But either way, Britain must do everything possible to dodge the worst of the pain to come. Thanks to Brexit, Sir Keir Starmer has a chance to make a separate free trade deal with the US, which would clearly be in our interests, with the proviso that Mr Trump doesn't demand too much in return. This must be the PM's focus. Joining Europe in a campaign of tit-for-tat tariffs at this stage would be a dangerous error. Diplomacy, rather than confrontation, must be his watchword. A lesbian California police officer has won a $10 million harassment lawsuit against her former cop colleagues. Ashley Cummins, a former-officer-turned-MMA-fighter, sued the National City Police Department for damages after she endured harassment and discrimination based on her gender and sexual orientation. Jurors of the court agreed that Cummins had been singled out by several of the officers in her department, and that senior commanders did little to prevent the abuse, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune. The total damages included around $166,000 in lost wages, $1.4 million in future economic losses and $4.2 million each in past and future non-economic losses, the outlet reported. 'We always believed our client was wronged and had viable legal claims for sexual harassment and discrimination,' her attorneys said in a statement to the outlet. 'Ultimately, we presented those legal claims to a jury to decide. We are grateful the jury found for our client on all accounts and awarded a just verdict.' Cummins joined the force in August of 2018, after working for the St Louis County PD for eight years, and said the harassment began almost instantaneously. 'The bullying and harassment were a result of the culture at NCPD that expected male officers to excel above female officers and expected female officers to be submissive to their male counterparts,' the complaint obtained by The San Diego Union-Tribune stated. Ashley Cummins, a former officer now turned MMA fighter, sued the National City Police Department for damages after she endured harassment and discrimination based on her gender and sexual orientation Cummins joined the force in August of 2018, after working for the St Louis County PD for eight years, and said the harassment began almost instantaneously The total $10 million in damages included around $166,000 in lost wages, $1.4 million in future economic losses and $4.2 million each in past and future non-economic losses 'In fact, many of the male officers and supervisors indicated that if female officers wanted to fit in at NCPD, they either needed to be submissive to the male officers or sleep with them.' Her attorney, Jeffrey Hogue, told the Star News: 'Our hearts go out to her because this has really ruined her life. It has cost her a lot. She has been in so much pain and struggles for the last five years since 2020 when it started.' Cummins claimed in the lawsuit that she had reported the behavior numerous times, but no action was ever taken. The lawsuit further alleged that Cummins was not the first female officer to make a complaint. The lawsuit said: 'At least one sergeant at NCPD has responded to a female officer's discrimination complaint by saying "I've had a female officer file a complaint about me before, don't be that cop. If you do that, you'll be just another female cop who plays [the female card] because she can't handle National City.' The sergeant added that things would only 'get worse for you if you do that.' In 2019, Cummins was asked 'if she had any dirt' on another female officer who filed a bullying and harassment claim, the complaint said. 'As such, Ms. Cummins was discouraged and intimidated from making a formal report to Internal Affairs,' the suit added. 'Ashley feels vindicated, and is overcome with emotion,' her attorneys said. 'She has applied at many different police departments but hasn't gotten a job because of the lawsuit' Cummins' attorney, Jeffrey Hogue, told the Star News: 'Our hearts go out to her because this has really ruined her life. It has cost her a lot. She has been in so much pain and struggles for the last five years since 2020 when it started' According to Cummins' lawsuit, the discrimination and harassment involved being yelled at over the police radio and ordered to leave crime scenes. Cummins was also passed over for a promotion to a K-9 assignment, and the male officer who was hired for the job was much less experienced than she was. Cummins was also placed on leave after a shooting, despite not being involved, and after returning to work, 'defendants made sure everyone stayed away from Ms. Cummins.' 'Ashley feels vindicated, and is overcome with emotion,' her attorneys told The San Diego Union-Tribune. 'She has applied at many different police departments but hasn't gotten a job because of the lawsuit.' Cummins now is a mixed martial arts athlete living in Chula Vista, competing as Ashley 'Smashley' Cummins. City Attorney Barry Schultz told NBC San Diego that 'the city is extremely disappointed with the outcome and is currently reviewing all of the legal options, including a possible appeal.' 'The city remains committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive workplace for all employees, and to continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism within the police department,' Schultz added. 'Notwithstanding the city's disappointment, the city and the police department will carefully assess the verdict and determine what lessons can be learned.' The prolific migrant gang deemed so dangerous by the US government that it's now classified a terrorist organization has spread to a new state inside America, DailyMail.com can reveal. Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan prison gang turned international crime ring, has spread to Maine, the US Border Patrol confirmed Friday. This means TdA, as the South American mob is known to law enforcement, is operating in at least 23 states inside America. A federal agent in the state known for lobster and lighthouses encountered a suspected member of TdA near Brunswick this week. Two Venezuelan nationals were under investigation for theft when Border Patrol was called in. 'After gathering information about the individuals, it was determined that both had previously illegally entered the United States and been released on their own recognizance,' the agency explained in a press release. One of the Venezuelans was determined to be affiliated with TdA. With this latest arrest, TdA is now known to be operating in the furthest reaches of the country. DailyMail.com was the first US news organization to report on Tren de Aragua, breaking the news that Venezuelas worst criminals were heading to the US. The latest Tren de Aragua arrest in Maine means the migrant super gang has had members arrested in 23 states After crossing over the US-Mexico border in 2022, TdA members infiltrated even the most remote corners of the country, getting arrested and charged for rape, murder, beating cops, taking over apartment complexes, selling drugs and prostituting women and children. However, TdA first set up strongholds in Texas cities like El Paso, San Antonio and Dallas among their fellow migrants. Their tentacles also spread to Denver, Chicago and New York before they fanned out to other states. 'They come in, they kind of hide they lay low for a little bit,' Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent JT Stevens told KFOX-TV in El Paso. 'They would normally, historically, as they move to a region, bring in a lieutenant and individuals that were under the lieutenant and they would go sit in the Venezuelan neighborhood, and the Venezuelans knew who they were by reputation. They would move in and they would rule it. TdA's presence was also recently revealed in Massachusetts, when nearly 400 migrants were rounded up in Boston between March 18 and 23, the feds announced last month. During the operation, 370 illegal immigrants were taken into custody, including several members of the notorious Venezuelan group, Trump Border Czar Tom Homan tweeted. Homan personally oversaw the raids, which netted 205 migrants with 'significant criminal convictions or charges.' Tren de Aragua gang tattoos (pictured above) were part of a Department of Homeland Security bulletin shared with federal agents in 2023 A suspected TdA mobster apprehended in El Paso, Texas. This suspected gangster even had the telltale signs of the criminal organization, like the clock tattoo on his chest Two of the 19 individuals arrested during the Oct. 19 raid at the Palatia Apartments in San Antonio where authorities say Tren de Aragua had been operating Among them were six fugitives wanted for murder, drug trafficking, organized crime, and money laundering charges. In many cases, American law enforcement has relied on the TdA gangs to ID them. A clock, a train, Michael Jordan's air jumpman logo are among the most recognizable tattoos. However, the body markings may soon disappear after the criminal organization's leadership warned its members to stop getting the ink that announces them to authorities, DailyMail.com exclusively reported. Federal law enforcement sources confirm to DailyMail.com that Tren de Aragua leadership is having its members already bearing the mob's signature tattoos burn them off. Tren de Aragua's tattoos have become a flashpoint in recent days - as the Trump Administration leaned heavily on skin markings to ID Venezuelan migrants as gangsters and deport them to a supermax prison in El Salvador. President Donald Trump justified the deportations, which did not follow the normal legal proceeding where judges sign off on each individual being removed from the US, using the controversial Alien Enemies Act. El Salvador's Presidency press office shows the arrival of alleged members of the Venezuelan criminal organization Tren de Aragua at the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT) in the city of Tecoluca, El Salvador As American courts decide if Trump is even legally able to apply the law to Venezuelan migrants, allegations have surfaced that the some of the deportees were wrongly accused of being Tren de Aragua by tattoos that were mistaken for the gang's insignia. 'Now were seeing the fact that theyre not getting tattoos because theyre aware that thats an identifier for us,' Tim Sullivan, the Chief Patrol Agent for US Border Patrol Special Operations, told El Paso station KFOX-TV. TdA, known to be incredibly adaptive and organized, issued the body art ban after its members interacted with Border Patrol and other federal agencies in the US. 'They try to learn from us as much as we learn from them, and thats what also made them, to a certain point, a difficult target to assess,' FBI in El Paso Special Agent in Charge John Morales explained. 'While were trying to do our job and were interviewing them at the borderthey were sending that information back and telling their folks, "Dont do A, dont do B, dont do C, dont bring this or the other," so that we wouldnt be able to detect them or identify them. Crowns and phrases related to royalty could were also branded on gang members, as the criminals who operated as foot soldiers for Venezuela's communist' dictator, believed they were untouchable. 'Hijos de Dios' which is Spanish for 'sons of God' or the shorter version 'HJ' could also be found inked on their bodies. The gang also has an affinity for the Chicago Bulls and Michael Jordan, often wearing jerseys, hats and the color red. But even the crimson shade has a tie to the gang's origin-- it's the color of party Venezuela's illegitimate president, Nicholas Maduro, belongs to. Sullivan added the body art is simply one way TdA thugs are linked to their criminal network in Venezuela. Nearly 50 suspected members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua were arrested Tuesday morning during a raid on a house in Texas. The San Antonio branch of the FBI said it developed intelligence that there was a 'possible gathering of suspected members or associates' of the gang, which originally started in a Venezuelan prison but has since morphed into an transnational criminal organization. After a search warrant was executed in Hays County, officers with the Texas Department of Public Safety arrested 47 people, KVUE reported. While it isn't clear how many of those arrested are thought to be part of the gang, ICE said those who were detained included 25 adult males, nine single adult females and four female heads of households with nine noncitizen children. Joel McColl witnessed the arrest in progress and recorded it. He said he first noticed activity outside his home at around 6:30am, when he saw a big white bus with multiple agents in different uniforms. The Hays County Sheriff's Office, FBI, ICE, Homeland Security, San Antonio police and Texas DPS were all present at the scene. 'I saw a line of people with their hands zip-tied behind their backs,' said McColl, who lives just outside of Austin near the Bear Creek area. 'It was upsetting to think that something like that could be going on under our noses,' he added. Nearly 50 suspected members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua were arrested Tuesday morning during a raid on a house in Hays County, Texas The raid occurred at 6:30am and was witnessed by a nearby resident. In all, 47 people were arrested Tren de Aragua (TdA) is known for committing extremely brutal crimes, including drug smuggling, sex trafficking and retribution murders. While the gang's activity started in 2014 largely in Venezuela, its reach has expanded to the United States, where its members are suspected in the shooting of two New York City police officers and the killing of a former Venezuelan police officer in Florida. DailyMail.com first broke the news that TdA had crossed into the US in October 2023. TdA was also accused of taking over a series of Colorado apartment complexes in August 2024. In Aurora, TdA assumed control over least three complexes: Aspen Grove Apartments, Whispering Pines, and the Edge of Lowry. In terrifying security camera photos, they were seen casually walking outside residents' homes with rifles in hand. In early February, approximately two weeks after President Donald Trump took office, ICE agents stormed into one of the apartment buildings and arrested as many as six men. It's unclear how many migrants were rounded up as part of the targeted enforcement, however, sources told DailyMail.com the total fell short of the 100 migrants ICE had hoped to nab. The Department of Homeland Security announced on March 21 that it has arrested 394 members of the gang since Trump took office three months earlier. Tren de Aragua gang tattoos (pictured above) were part of a Department of Homeland Security bulletin shared with federal agents in 2023 Tren de Aragua is now operating in 21 states within the US The government has typically used the gang's distinctive tattoos to identify TdA members. Some of the designs used include the Michael Jordan 'Jump Man' logo, trains, crowns, stars, clocks and skulls with gas masks. The tattoos have become a flashpoint in recent days - as the Trump Administration leaned heavily on skin markings to ID Venezuelan migrants as gangsters and deport them to a supermax prison in El Salvador. However, the body markings may soon disappear as the criminal organization's leadership is now warning its members to stop getting the ink that announces them to authorities. Federal law enforcement sources recently confirmed to DailyMail.com that TdA leadership is having its members already bearing the mob's signature tattoos burn them off. TdA, known to be incredibly adaptive and organized, issued the body art ban after its members interacted with Border Patrol and other federal agencies in the US. 'They try to learn from us as much as we learn from them, and thats what also made them, to a certain point, a difficult target to assess,' FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge John Morales explained. A Russian ballistic missile strike on Volodymyr Zelensky's home city of Kryvyi Rig killed 14 people on Friday, including six children, the Ukrainian leader said. The missile struck a residential area near a children's playground and wounded more than 50 people, according to the head of the city's military administration. Unverified videos on social media appeared to show bodies lying on a street, while another showed a plume of smoke rising into the evening sky. 'It was preliminarily a ballistic missile attack. As of now, 14 people have been killed, including six children,' Zelensky said on Telegram. The rescue operation was ongoing, he added. 'There is only one reason why this continues - Russia does not want a ceasefire and we see it. The whole world sees it,' he said. 'And only the world's pressure on Russia, all efforts to strengthen Ukraine, our air defence, our forces - only this will determine when the war will end.' The Ukrainian leader was born in Kryvyi Rig, which had a pre-war population of around 600,000 people. On his Instagram page, Zelensky shared a selection of photographs that laid bare the extent of Russia's latest attack. Some, graphic in nature, showed dead bodies lying close to a children's play area in the city. Others showed vehicles in flames or with cracked windscreens. Another showed damage sustained by a residential building, with windows blown out by the impact of the missile attack. A Russian ballistic missile strike on Volodymyr Zelensky's home city of Kryvyi Rig killed 14 people on Friday, including six children, the Ukrainian leader said On his Instagram page, Zelensky shared a selection of photographs that laid bare the extent of Russia's latest attack Burning cars, debris in the streets and residential buildings with windows blown out show the aftermath of Friday's missile strike US President Donald Trump's administration has been pushing for a speedy end to the more than three-year war, holding talks with both Russia and Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected a joint US-Ukrainian proposal for an unconditional and full ceasefire, while Ukraine has accused Moscow of dragging out talks with no intention of halting its offensive. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said earlier on Friday that Trump was not 'going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations' with Russia over its three-year invasion. 'We will know soon enough, in a matter of weeks, not months, whether Russia is serious about peace or not,' he said. Kryvyi Rig, in Ukraine's central Dnipropetrovsk region, is about 37 miles (60 kilometres) from the front line, but has regularly been targeted by Russian drones and missiles. A previous Russian ballistic attack on the city on Wednesday killed at least four people and wounded more than a dozen others. Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the city's military administration, said the missile landed near a children's playground. Zelensky said the attack showed diplomacy was an 'empty word' for Russia. Photographs taken from the scene show bodies lying in the streets moments after the attack A burnt-out car shows the aftermath of a deadly missile attack launched by Russia on Friday Firefighters work to put out a vehicle fire in the moments following the deadly strike on Friday The Ukrainian leader was born in Kryvyi Rig, which had a pre-war population of around 600,000 people. Pictured: A car's windscreen appears smashed following the strike Kryvyi Rig, in Ukraine's central Dnipropetrovsk region, is about 37 miles (60 kilometres) from the front line, but has regularly been targeted by Russian drones and missiles A man weeps next to a body at the site of the Russian missile strike in Kryvyi Rig Emergency workers carry at body recovered following Friday's deadly attack on Kryvyi Rig A residential building is missing windows and balconies following the Russian missile strike Residents attempts to clean up the damage inside a home following the devastating attack Policemen and rescuers walk en masse to help the wounded following the strike on Friday Ukrainian rescuers work to extinguish a fire following a Russian missile attack on the city on Wednesday 'A ceasefire could have been reached by now and it is Putin who rejects it,' he said in his evening address. Five apartment buildings were damaged, interior minister Igor Klymenko said. He said police had blocked off the area to maintain order. 'The police are documenting the consequences of Russia's war crime and accepting statements from the victims,' Klymenko added. Social media video from the scene showed a car in flames, while people could be heard shouting. Andriy Kovalenko, a Ukrainian official tasked with countering disinformation, described the missile involved in the attack as an 'Iskander'. The Iskander is a Russian ballistic missile system that can have a range of up to 500 kilometres (311 miles). 'This is a deliberate strike to kill a large number of people,' Kovalenko said. A woman who was jailed for two years after she tweeted about the Southport riots has been denied temporary leave to see her 12-year-old daughter and sick husband. Lucy Connolly, 42, is currently serving a 31-month sentence for a post made last summer where she spoke of mass deportations and setting fire to asylum hotels 'for all I care'. The comments came in the wake of the knife attack on a Southport dance class on July 29 in which three children were killed, and in the midst of false claims the attacker was an illegal immigrant. Connolly's post, which she later deleted, read: 'Mass deportation now, set fire to all the f***ing hotels full of the b******s for all I care...' She later added: 'If that makes me racist, so be it.' The childminder, from Northampton, was subsequently arrested and put behind bars. But now police chiefs are being criticised for denying Connolly temporary leave, as she has been waiting four months to secure release. This is despite one prison expert describing her as the 'ideal candidate' for such a scheme. Lucy Connolly was jailed over a social media post where she said: 'Mass deportation now, set fire to all the f***ing hotels full of the b******s for all I care...' The 41-year-old since deleted her post and blamed it on 'a moment of extreme outrage and emotion' when she was acting on 'false and malicious' information Serious violence and rioting by demonstrators broke out on the streets in Rotherham following the Southport attacks Documents suggest Connolly has not yet been granted the leave due to concerns over public and media interest in her case as opposed to any apparent failure to meet the criteria for temporary release, the Telegraph reports. Connolly had cited apparent deterioration in her daughter's behaviour at school, saying this was 'totally out of character'. She also referenced stress being placed on her sick husband, Ray, a Conservative councillor for West Northamptonshire who is suffering from bone marrow failure. The 42-year-old had taken her 'racist' post down within four hours when she uploaded it last summer but this was not before it had been viewed 310,000 times and screenshots taken. She was interviewed by police on August 6 and charged three days later, remaining in jail since as she pleaded guilty before her sentencing in October. Connolly has been eligible for release on temporary licence since last November, based on her prison time served. The system is open to inmates as a way to 'rebuild family ties', allowing for up to two overnight home stays a month. Only category A prisoners, many of which serve time for violent, terrorist and sexual crimes, those formally listed as escape risks, and suspects failing extradition are excluded under prison rules. Lucy Connolly's Conservative councillor husband Raymond Connolly, pictured outside Northampton Crown Court, watched in court as she pleaded guilty to stirring up racial hatred Protesters try to cram into the migrant hotel through a damaged fire exit in Rotherham Police officers stand near the broken windows of the hotel in Rotherham during an anti-immigration protest Speaking on the process, Ian Acheson, a former prison governor who has advised the Government on extremism in jails, told the Telegraph he was 'concerned' by the 'apparent foot-dragging over consideration for release on temporary licence'. He said: 'It can't be right that someone who is otherwise eligible is not being considered because of either the prison's failure to properly risk assess or her "notoriety". 'In my opinion, and given the offence details and the background to her custodial behaviour I have seen, she ought to be an ideal candidate for early release to allow her reintegration to start. 'Many more risky individuals are walking free as a result of Labour's emergency mass release legislation.' The judge who passed sentenced on Connolly had said when she published her words online that the mother had been 'well aware how volatile the situation was'. 'That volatility led to serious disorder where mindless violence was used', the judge added. Connolly had encouraged activity that threatened or endangered life, the court heard. Birmingham Crown Court heard further investigations by police had found other messages from Connolly in which she referred to illegal immigrants as 'boat invaders'. Birmingham Crown Court heard further investigations by police had found other messages from Connolly in which she referred to illegal immigrants as 'boat invaders' However, speaking after her guilty plea, Mr Connolly said the last few weeks had been 'quite traumatic' for his wife and children - and that he now feels 'kind of relieved'. In one message, a week after her original post on X, it revealed she was aware of the public backlash, and with Ofsted being tagged, she said she would tell the education watchdog she had been the victim of doxing where private or identifying information about an individual is published online. Connolly added that if she was arrested, she would 'play the mental health card'. The court heard Connolly was arrested the next day, on August 6, and told police she made the post which initially saw her arrested because the Southport children had died in 'horrific' circumstances. She said she had also lost her own son in horrific circumstances and this had 'triggered' her. She said she felt that children were not safe, but later took the tweet down because she realised it was wrong. Connolly admitted having strong views on immigration and did not like illegal immigrants and wanted them 'gone' because they were 'unchecked' and denied their race or religion was a factor. She told officers she was horrified when rioters started setting fire to hotels, as happened in Rotherham on August 4. Prosecutor Naeem Valli told the court Connolly was bailed, only for officers to receive a further report highlighting other 'tweets by Mrs Connolly which appeared to be racist'. The aftermath of violent disorder in Hull city centre which saw rioters tear through the shopping district The court heard although Connolly had deleted her account, some of her posts could still be seen after they were shared to other users of the platform. Since the verdict, there have been claims Connolly was a victim of 'two-tier justice' and that her sentence was disproportionate. Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform UK, said: 'Lucy is the victim of two-tier justice because she is white and Sir Keir Starmer ordered the judiciary to impose stiff sentences last August. It is as simple as that.' Prison service bosses have denied Connolly's application for release on temporary licence had been blocked and said it was being considered by the governor at HMP Drake Hall in Staffordshire, to which the 42-year-old has recently been transferred. A spokesman said: 'Decisions on release on temporary licence and home detention curfew are made following uncompromising risk assessments to prioritise public safety. 'These are discretionary schemes, and each case is rigorously scrutinised, considering the severity of the offence, the prisoner's conduct and the potential impact on victims and the community.' It is believed Connolly has qualifed for an enhanced regime, a reward for good behaviour. Her application for temporary release at her previous prison, HMP Peterborough, was delayed until a risk assessment was done, probation documents have suggested. Three girls were killed at the Taylor Swift-themed dance class, including Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven Bebe King (left), six, was also killed in the horror attack in Southport in July, along with Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine (right) Axel Rudakubana (pictured), 18, and from the Lancashire village of Banks, was jailed for a minimum of 52 years for her murder An internal note said: 'It is not necessarily going to happen due to the public interest' while another added, 'the media interest has been raised as an issue in terms of any future ROTL applications'. Connolly is currently seeking to appeal against her sentence, with a hearing due on May 15. Her barrister, Adam King, is expected to argue the judge miscategorised her offence, with a sentence wrongly based on intending to incite serious violence. He is expected to argue there was insufficient weight placed on mitigating factors such as an unblemished record, positive good character references, and other messages she had sent saying violence was not the answer. Last year, a father-of-three was also jailed at Northampton Crown Court for 38 months on August 9 after re-posting part of Connolly's X message. Tyler Kay, 26, of Ellfield Court, Northampton, admitted a charge of publishing material intended to stir up racial hatred. Passing sentence on Kay after he pleaded guilty, Judge Lucking told him: 'You posted as you did because you thought there were no consequences for yourself from stirring up racial hatred in others. 'The overall tone of the posts clearly reveals your fundamentally racist mindset. 'I am sure that when you intentionally created the posts you intended that racial hatred would be stirred up by your utterly repulsive, racist and shocking posts that have no place in a civilised society.' Three young girls, Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, 9, were killed in the Southport attack on a Taylor Swift-themed dance session in July. Eight other children and two adults were injured in the July 29 rampage. Axel Rudakubana, 18, and from the Lancashire village of Banks, was jailed for a minimum of 52 years for her murder. Labour is plotting to delay new AI copyright laws by up to four years, it has been claimed. The Government reportedly wants to conduct a full 'technical review' of its proposal to give Big Tech firms an exemption from copyright law when training their AI models. But creators say the tech giants are already 'burgling' their work and need to be stopped urgently. It is also feared that the technical review which is framed as a concession to creators will focus solely on the Government's preferred option, effectively locking it into that course of action. Combined with a full economic assessment, it could be another four years before new legislation is in place. Baroness Kidron, an award-winning film director whose work includes Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason, accused ministers of 'fiddling while Rome burns'. She said: 'The Government is simply kicking this into the long grass while Silicon Valley burgles our creative industry in plain sight. 'Everybody knows there is widespread scraping of copyright material right now. They need to act, not let that continue while they take years deciding what to do next. Baroness Kidron accused ministers of 'fiddling while Rome burns' as Labour plots to delay AI copyright laws by four years 'Current copyright law would work if the Government agreed to my amendments, which simply say that AI companies must record when, where, why and what copyrighted material they have taken. 'The house is on fire and the Government is suggesting that we review firefighters training. We need to fight the fire now.' The Government's preferred option would force creators to opt out of having their work 'scraped' by AI systems to train models. Tech giants Open AI and Google have said they want even more freedom to do so than what is being suggested by the Government. Baroness Kidron, who has met the Government over the issue, said she asked what the technical review would cover but ministers would not say. She added: 'If they have already decided it is to look at their preferred option, then they are simply showing their wilful ignorance of all the other possibilities.' The Mail has been campaigning to protect Britain's creative industries from the threat of AI. Composer Ed Newton-Rex, who quit as vice-president of audio at AI firm Stability in 2023 in a row over the use of copyrighted music, condemned the possible delay. 'The Government cannot use a delay as an excuse to turn a blind eye to intellectual property theft by AI companies,' he said. 'It must enforce existing copyright law and protect the rights of the country's creators. The Mail has been campaigning to protect Britain's creative industries from the threat of AI Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology Peter Kyle leaves 10 Downing Street after attending the weekly Cabinet meeting 'The Government should have done this assessment before proposing an unfair change to the law. Coming so late in the process, it is hard to believe it will be a neutral review. The Government has made their preferred outcome clear they want to upend copyright law to favour AI companies at the expense of the country's creators.' The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology insisted no final decisions have been taken. A spokesman said: 'We have always been clear that no changes will be made until we are absolutely confident we have a practical plan that delivers on each of our objectives.' Taxpayers funded the training ministers underwent when they were trying to sell their unpopular welfare cuts to the public, it can be revealed. Official records show 12,000 of public money was given to PR giant Freud Communications, whose chairman backed Labour at the election. The cash was given by the Department for Work and Pensions to provide 'media training for six ministers to be able to deal confidently in front of TV and radio'. It signed the two-month deal just as the Government began to 'roll the pitch' for the hugely controversial 5billion cuts to sickness and disability benefits. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall, an MP since 2010 and former Labour leadership contender, did a round of interviews with four of the main broadcasters on the day she presented her reforms to the Commons. Last night shadow paymaster general Richard Holden told the Mail: 'Labour splashing thousands of pounds of taxpayers' cash on vanity media training to defend their shambolic and rushed welfare cuts tells you everything you need to know about this Government. 'They are clearly more concerned with massaging their egos, and protecting their reputations then delivering.' John O'Connell, TaxPayers' Alliance chief, said: 'This is a completely unacceptable use of taxpayer cash, even putting aside the dire straits the economy is in. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall used tax-payer's money for 'media training for six ministers to be able to deal confidently in front of TV and radio' Disabled activists protested last week against the controversial cuts to the benefits Shadow paymaster general Richard Holden said Labour 'are clearly more concerned with massaging their egos, and protecting their reputations then delivering' 'It's certainly no surprise that ministers are scrambling for media training as they increasingly struggle to defend their Government's failing agenda.' It is only the latest contract arranged for Labour ministers to enjoy taxpayer-funded training since the election. The Treasury also used Freud Communications whose chairman Matthew Freud was one of dozens of business leaders to sign a letter to The Times before last year's election claiming: 'Labour has shown it has changed and wants to work with business to achieve the UK's full economic potential.' Details provided to Parliament show the Treasury has spent 9,700 'on media training for members of the ministerial team' since last July. A government spokesman insisted: 'It is perfectly routine for ministers to receive media training, and this has occurred extensively under previous administrations.' As the nation marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day next month, descendants of Sir Winston Churchill will take part in a commemorative service alongside the Royal Family in Westminster Abbey. The Cabinet War Rooms bunker, used during the Blitz, will also feature, alongside the wartime leaders birthplace, Oxfordshires Blenheim Palace. Events will further be held at Chartwell, Churchills much-loved home in the Kent countryside, now one of the National Trusts most popular attractions. But while Churchill, and the places he knew and loved, will be central to this anniversary perhaps the last that many veterans will be able to attend he has been relegated to a secondary role around the Westminster estate by the cultural commissars in the current government. Immediately after his inauguration as US President in January, Donald Trump re-installed the famous bust of Churchill in the Oval Office. Yet at least five images of the British PM have been removed from Downing Street and Parliament since Sir Keir Starmer swept to power less than a year ago. Among them were an evocative photograph from 1945 showing Churchill at the Cenotaph: stripped from Portcullis House, the main office building for MPs. Over in the Treasury, a famous 1919 portrait of Churchill has been replaced by an abstract woollen tapestry depicting an unknown woman by minor Scottish artist Margaret Maran. Churchill may have been a Tory yet his roles in establishing minimum wages for certain trades and introducing labour exchanges (known today as Job Centres) are rarely celebrated by the Left. Every government, of course, enjoys its pick of the 10,000-strong Parliamentary Art Collection, and a degree of chopping and changing is normal. But the current Labour administration have wasted no time in banishing as many symbols of Britains past as possible. In this, they may have been spurred by an audit for alleged links to slavery and racism that the Collection underwent following the Black Lives Matter riots in 2020. This found, perhaps inevitably given the febrile climate of that time, that hundreds of pieces had connections, however tenuous, to the slave trade. A portrait of Churchill has been replaced by an abstract woollen tapestry depicting an unknown woman by minor Scottish artist Margaret Maran A large 1592 portrait of Elizabeth I by the Flemish artist Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger (pcitured) has been put into storage, replacing with a work about female empowerment by Portuguese artist Paula Rego The chancellor Rachel Reeves has reportedly issued a blanket ban on any works of art depicting or painted by men in the State Dining Room Throughout history, the Left has often shown a fondness for purging the cultural artefacts of the past, from the Soviets banning artists whose ideologies conflicted with their own to Pol Pots genocidal Year Zero, which sought to wipe out any trace of life in Cambodia before 1975. Starmer, a self-professed socialist, has made no attempt to halt the ongoing cultural reset taking place on his watch. Dozens of paintings and other artworks have been removed from MPs offices and across the Parliamentary estate and nor has Downing Street escaped. Despite Whitehall being urged to cut costs after Rachel Reevess clumsy stewardship of the economy plunged Britain into low-growth, high-tax stagflation, so pronounced is this artistic clear-out that I can reveal the Department of Culture recently allocated 85,000 for a one-year contract to provide transport and installation services for government artworks. Thats a lot of rehanging. Founded in 1899, at the zenith of Empire, the Parliamentary Art Collection now incorporates prints, paintings, drawings and works in various media by great British artists from JMW Turner to LS Lowry. Yet our modern rulers assisted by the Heritage Collections Team and the Speakers Advisory Committee on Works of Art tend to have more exotic contemporary tastes. No fewer than three portraits of the Duke of Wellington the countrys second-most popular PM after Churchill, according to pollsters YouGov have been banished from display since Labours victory last July. Wellington, whose 1815 victory at the Battle of Waterloo was of course pivotal in shaping world history, initially opposed the abolition of the slave trade before helping to put an end to it. Other important British historical figures have been similarly excised. They include four portraits of Elizabeth I and her confidant Sir Walter Raleigh, who helped repel the Spanish Armada in 1588. Taoiseach Enda Kenny (right) meets with then Prime Minister David Cameron (left) under a portrait of former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher at 10 Downing Street in 2011 Among them is a large 1592 portrait of Elizabeth by the fine Flemish artist Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger, now put into storage. Replacing this and the Raleigh portrait are two works about female empowerment by Portuguese artist Paula Rego, who specialised in depicting abortion. Portraits of senior Labour figures including Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and ex-culture minister Baroness Hodge have also been installed as part of a push to boost gender and ethnic diversity. Five images of Oliver Cromwell have been removed from Parliament, along with several paintings of Queen Victoria and her consort Prince Albert: this last is perhaps expected given that Starmer once boasted of being an ardent republican. A portrait of the last of Victorias ten prime ministers, Lord Salisbury, has gone the same way. Salisbury enjoyed 14 years in No 10, winning three general elections for the Conservatives in 1886, 1895 and 1901. In that final ballot, he polled more than 50 per cent towering above the 34 per cent Starmer achieved last summer. Perhaps no wonder his pictures gone, then. Starmer has further evicted from his study a portrait of Baroness Thatcher commissioned by Gordon Brown, the previous Labour PM, and unveiled by the Iron Lady herself in 2009 for permanent display. Starmer insisted to the BBC that he didnt like pictures of people staring down at me, though he joked that he might tolerate the image of ex-Arsenal striker Thierry Henry. There isnt even room for William Shakespeare: an 18th-century portrait of the Bard has been taken down from No 10 the first time in probably more than a century that Downing Street does not display a portrait of Englands and arguably the worlds foremost literary genius. Five paintings of titanic Liberal PM William Gladstone, who romped home in four general elections between 1868 and 1892, have also been expunged. What an irony: the pioneering reformer legislated so that women could control their property after marriage and donated 10 million (in modern sums) of his own money to good causes, while removing the taxes that had put newspapers beyond the reach of the ordinary people. Though Gladstone never owned slaves, he is judged by his pitiless critics to have benefited from his fathers ownership of slaves, meaning his image is not longer fit to be seen. Portraits of senior Labour figures including Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and ex-culture minister Baroness Hodge have also been installed as part of a push to boost gender and ethnic diversity Next door at No 11, Rachel Reeves has been just as concerned with the decor, issuing a blanket ban on any works of art depicting or painted by men in the State Dining Room. So out has gone the bust of Benjamin Disraeli, the Tory PM who did more than anyone else in the 19th century to improve the living standards of ordinary people by demolishing thousands of slums and building new homes for workers. She has further removed any sign of David Lloyd George, the Liberal Chancellor and later PM who introduced the state pension and brought in a progressive taxation system so that the poor were supported by the rich. The Welsh Wizard served as chancellor for seven years a record few expect the embattled Reeves to match. Not even William Wilberforce, the great slave-trade abolitionist, survived the Starmer-Reeves purge. A large portrait of James II in one of Number 11s State Rooms, posing in a suit of armour, has also been sent to storage because of his apparent links to the slave trade. In its place is a maquette of the Suffragist Millicent Fawcett by conceptual artist Gillian Wearing, who notoriously scrawled (minus the asterisks) F*** Cilla Black on the cover of the Guardian newspapers features section in 2003 a vulgar stunt for which she was forced to apologise. Other artworks deemed worthy of display include Covid Anxiety 5 (Mask Disorder), a squiggle in a red ballpoint pen by Donna Coleman who, according to the governments own website, reconnected with painting around 2010 as a means to express her experienced with depression [sic]. If Colemans red ballpoint isnt uplifting enough, visitors to No 11 can also take in Portrait of a Woman (Invisible Virus), a collage of magazine cut-outs compiled by Lisa Fielding-Smith, whose interests include feminist theory, hysteria, witchcraft, fairy tales and gender performativity. Most strikingly of all, Reeves has ordered a portrait of celebrated Tory chancellor Nigel Lawson to be taken down from her Treasury office wall and replaced with a photograph of Red Ellen Wilkinson. This lifelong Marxist and ultra-Left Labour minister helped to found the Communist Party of Great Britain, proudly travelling to Moscow to pay homage to Lenin and Trotsky. Reeves has also reportedly removed any sign of David Lloyd George, the Liberal Chancellor and later PM who introduced the state pension and brought in a progressive taxation system so that the poor were supported by the rich Deputy PM Angela Rayner, a darling of the trade union movement who has called Conservative ministers a bunch of scum, hasnt disappointed her radical fanbase, either. She has picked Marching Out, an image of the Durham Miners Gala, by ex-miner George Robson, to grace her official walls. Science Secretary Peter Kyle has chosen a colour photograph of a rusting and lichen-smeared metal structure over a body of water. Taken in 2006 by Nick Waplington, the piece is called Random Growth Without Loss of Stability. They wouldnt be able to hang that in the Treasury. Richard Hermer, the Attorney General, has come under sustained fire in recent months for his role in the Chagos Islands surrender. Hes also been criticised for acting for a raft of clients opposed to British interests before he entered government, including Gerry Adams, described in Parliament as the godfather of terrorism. So it is fitting, perhaps, that this very model of a modern human rights lawyer has chosen an etching called Map of Nowhere by cross-dressing potter Grayson Perry to hang in his office. Culture minister Sir Chris Bryant, who happens to be gay, is another fan of Perry and has also opted for works by John Minton, an exuberantly queer illustrator who committed suicide aged 39 in 1957. It all adds up to quite the collection. Lawrence Goldman, Professor of History at St Peters College, Oxford, is scathing about the changes. Do these modern lightweight politicians really believe this is the way to do history? he asks. To find fault with the past? To point the finger of blame at figures whose abilities and significance far outweigh those of our current leaders? He continues: How do we explain these attacks on our national history? Ignorance is part of it: Governments no longer contain people with historical awareness. Partisanship is to blame as well: past generations could honour the achievements of their predecessors of whatever party. Immaturity must be part of it, also: anyone with genuine insight into human affairs would know not to judge the past by present standards. An 18th-century portrait of William Shakespeare has been taken down from No 10 'the first time in probably more than a century that Downing Street does not display a portrait of Englands foremost literary genius' A Department of Culture spokesman said that works of art were swapped around all the time. A spokesman for the Parliamentary Art Collection said: While some MPs proactively select artworks in their offices, others do not. For example the Minister for Transport might have artworks relating to transport The artwork in these offices is not necessarily a reflection of the MPs personal choice. Bryant dismissed suggestions the collection was being politicised and added, in a telling echo of his departments line, we swap paintings around all the time. He went on to describe the rehanging of works by or depicting women in the state dining room of 11 Downing Street as absolutely stunning. But that, I suppose, is in the eye of the beholder. A tsunami warning was issued for Papua New Guinea following a strong 6.9 magnitude earthquake. The quake was shallow, striking the Pacific island nation at a depth of six miles on Saturday morning local time, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). It struck at 6.04 am local time (8.04pm GMT) and was centred offshore, 120 miles east of the town of Kimbe on the island of New Britain. The USGS issued a tsunami warning for waves of one to three metres along some parts of the Papua New Guinea coastline after the quake. A caution about smaller waves of 0.3m was issued for the nearby Solomon Islands. The tsunami warnings were however later called off. There were no immediate reports of damage. Just over 500,000 people live on the island of New Britain. Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said there was no tsunami threat to the country, which is Papua New Guinea's closest neighbour. No warning was issued for New Zealand. Marolyn Simbiken, a receptionist at Kimbe's Liamo Reef Resort, said so far she had not seen any damage. A tsunami warning was issued for Papua New Guinea following a strong 6.9 magnitude earthquake. Pictured: New Britain island The USGS issued a tsunami warning for waves of one to three metres along some parts of the Papua New Guinea coastline after the quake 'We did feel the earthquake here,' she told AFP. 'But there's not big damage. Nothing was damaged here and there was no evacuation.' Walindi Plantation Resort worker Barbara Aibilo she felt a 'slight shake'. Two smaller quakes, with preliminary magnitudes of 5.1 and 5.3, afterwards struck near the same patch of sea, according to the USGS. Earthquakes are common in Papua New Guinea, which sits on top of the seismic 'Ring of Fire' - an arc of intense tectonic activity that stretches through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. Although they seldom cause widespread damage in sparsely populated areas, they can trigger destructive landslides. The latest quake comes just days after a deadly 7.7 earthquake struck Myanmar, with tremors felt in Bangkok, Thailand. More than 3,000 people are confirmed dead in Myanmar following last week's devastating earthquake as hopes fade of finding any more survivors. Rescuers carry out search and rescue on the damaged buildings in the aftermath of an earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar Chinese rescue workers work at the site of a collapsed building, in the aftermath of a strong earthquake, in Mandalay, Myanmar, March 31, 2025 The epicentre of the quake, which struck at midday on Friday, was near the country's second-largest city Mandalay. Large swathes of the country were impacted, damaging roads and bridges while leaving several areas without power or communications - effectively cutting off several towns and villages from the rest of the world. Myanmar's ruling military junta has been accused of suppressing the scale of national disasters, leading the BBC to speculate the death toll could be far higher, as the UN warned the quake had compounded 'an already dire crisis' amid a four-year civil war. Four days after the earthquake struck, many people are still sleeping outdoors without any aid, either unable to return to ruined homes or afraid of further aftershocks. Meanwhile, the US Geological Survey's predictive modelling estimated that the number of casualties could top 10,000 and economic losses could exceed the country's annual economic output. The earthquake also rocked neighbouring Thailand, causing a high-rise building under construction to collapse, burying dozens of people alive. Donald Trump triumphantly celebrated a recent drone strike against Iran-backed Houthi terrorists in Western Yemen. The president posted video of the hit by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) to his Truth Social page and delighted in the victory. He wrote: 'These Houthis gathered for instructions on an attack. Oops, there will be no attack by these Houthis! They will never sink our ships again!' The video, shot from the sky, shows a group of Houthis - one of several groups backed by the Islamic Republic of Iran - lining up before a gigantic explosion blows them away. Only two trucks can be seen as the smoke from the blast clears, presumably killing everyone down below. There was no context given to when the drone strike took place, but America has been making attempts to decimate the terror group since the end of the Biden administration. DailyMail.com has reached out to the White House and the Pentagon for comment. As National Security Council head Mike Waltz defended his role in the Signal chat leak, a spokesman pointed out that it showed a plan that was working. Donald Trump triumphantly celebrated a recent drone strike against Iran-backed Houthi terrorists in Western Yemen Trump posted video of a drone strike by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) to his Truth Social page and delighted in the victory 'The thread is a demonstration of the deep and thoughtful policy coordination between senior officials. The ongoing success of the Houthi operation demonstrates that there were no threats to troops or national security,' Brian Hughes said in a statement. In November 2023, the Houthis began launching missile, drone and naval attacks on Western commercial vessels in the Red Sea in retaliation for Israel's bombardment of Gaza. The attacks meant that many commercial shipping companies could no longer transit the Suez Canal - a vital maritime passageway splitting Africa and the Middle East that used to carry roughly 30 per cent of world container traffic. Instead, ships heading to Western Europe from Asia have been forced to circumnavigate the entire African continent, adding up to two weeks to their time at sea. Despite striking Houthi targets intermittently for more than a year now, the US has been unable to prevent the group from triggering a global shipping crisis as they continue to threaten Western ships. On December 18, 2023, the Biden administration launched Operation Prosperity Guardian which saw a coalition of Western militaries - particularly the US, UK, Canada and France - work to intercept Houthi attacks. It was billed as a united effort to safeguard vital waterways and restore global shipping norms. But attacks continued and by January 2024 the US and UK decided to begin launching direct airstrikes against Houthi military targets in Yemen, hoping the use of military force would force the rebels into submission. The video, shot from the sky, shows a group of Houthis - one of several groups backed by the Islamic Republic of Iran - lining up before a gigantic explosion blows them away Now, more than a year later, the operation has failed to secure Red Sea shipping lanes. The volume of traffic through the Suez Canal remains roughly 50 per cent lower than pre-November 2023 rates and Western vessels are unable to transit without facing the Houthi threat. It has been over a year since a US-flagged commercial ship safely sailed through the Suez Canal, the Red Sea, or the Gulf of Aden. Meanwhile, the Iran-backed Houthis have struck deals with the likes of Russian and Chinese shipping companies, as well as the operators of Russia's 'shadow fleet' of oil tankers, allowing them to proceed safely. The Houthis enduring ability to disrupt global shipping comes down to the flexibility and low cost of their operations. The drones used by the Houthis to strike commercial ships and target US Navy vessels are estimated to cost roughly $2,000. More expensive military drones and missiles can increase that figure to the $50,000 mark. They require no substantial military infrastructure to deploy and can be launched, controlled and piloted by a small and mobile team. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told Fox News in mid-March: 'The minute the Houthis say we'll stop shooting at your ships, we'll stop shooting at your drones. This campaign will end, but until then it will be unrelenting.' President Donald Trump has warned Houthi terrorists to cease their attacks against Red Sea shipping or 'hell will rain down upon you' A view from the naval carrier as planes take off towards Houthi targets in Yemen 'This is about stopping the shooting at assets... in that critical waterway, to reopen freedom of navigation, which is a core national interest of the United States, and Iran has been enabling the Houthis for far too long,' he said. 'They better back off.' But Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi said shortly after that his militants would target US Navy ships in the Red Sea as long as the US continues its attacks on Yemen. 'If they continue their aggression, we will continue the escalation,' he said in a televised speech. US warplanes shot down 11 Houthi drones in mid-March, none of which came close to the Truman, military officials said, adding they also tracked a missile that splashed down off the coast of Yemen and was not deemed a threat. The Houthis had paused their attacks on commercial ships and US naval vessels after Israel and Hamas struck a ceasefire deal earlier this year. But the group restarted their drone and missile barrages on March 12 after Israel chose to halt the flow of aid into Gaza amid ongoing negotiations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told CBS News: 'There's no way the Houthis would have the ability to do this kind of thing unless they had support from Iran.' He said of the American strikes: 'This was a message to Iran: don't keep supporting them, because then you will also be responsible for what they are doing in attacking Navy ships and attacking global shipping.' In response, Hossein Salami, the top commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, said the Houthis made their own decisions. 'We warn our enemies that Iran will respond decisively and destructively if they carry out their threats,' he told state media. Meghan Markle released her As Ever range this week and giddily claimed that it 'sold out' within half an hour of going live. But the Duchess of Sussex, 43, has been accused of using the 'oldest marketing trick in the book' by one of the Mail's Royal experts on the latest episode of Palace Confidential. During the hit YouTube show, Richard Eden, the Daily Mail's Diary Editor, was quick to brand the As Ever range as 'pathetic' due to the limited range of products available. 'Have you had a look at her lifestyle website As Ever?' he asked Rebecca English, the Daily Mail's revered Royal Editor, and host of the popular YouTube show Jo Elvin. 'It went live yesterday with the prices and everything.' Richard said. 'It's really pathetic. There's only about ten items. I was expecting quite a nice range.' 'Quality not quantity, Richard,' Jo said before Rebecca asked with a jeering lilt: 'You didn't try to get your edible sprinkles then, Richard?' 'What? $15, I think, for a tiny little tin?' a horrified Richard replied. 'Well, according to Meghan, it's sold out,' Jo added. Meghan Markle (pictured on her Netflix show) launched As Ever on Wednesday and the collection 'sold out' within an hour During the hit YouTube show, Richard Eden (pictured), the Daily Mail's Diary Editor, was quick to brand the As Ever range as 'pathetic' due to the limited range of products available Diving into more detail about the highly anticipated As Ever drop, Rebecca revealed the list of products including wildflower honey with honeycomb priced at an eye-watering $28 (21.60) and some flower sprinkles at $15 (11.60), while a jar of raspberry jam set punters back $14 (10.80). Other goods in the Duchess's lifestyle range included shortbread and crepe mixes - both being sold for $14 - and various herbal tea mixes for $12 (9.30) each. 'I feel like we are doing an ad for her now,' Jo quipped. 'Come on,' a despairing Richard begged his colleagues. '"Sold out". I mean, give me a break. That's the oldest marketing trick in the book. Playing devil's advocate, Jo replied: 'Don't be so cynical! There are a lot of people who would want to order that stuff.' But Richard quickly questioned how many items the As Ever website actually had available. Meghan herself stated on Instagram that there were 'limited quantities for each seasonal drop'. Adding her two cents to the spirited discussion, Rebecca said: 'Interestingly, I went on the As Ever site when I heard it had gone live within about three or four minutes and already a lot of the items were either showing sold out or coming soon.' Meghan's As Ever products launched on Wednesday and seemingly sold out 'in less than one hour' The Duchess of Sussex's jam jars retailed at $14 (10.80) The limited edition Wildflower Honey set punters back $28 (21.60) Meghan also sold peppermint tea, ready made crepe mix and shortbread cookie mix with flower sprinkles 'It was kind of slightly all over the place,' Rebecca added. 'She has put on the site that this is a limited drop but obviously we have no idea of the number they are selling and Richard is right, there's a lot of marketing experts saying that is one of the oldest tricks in the book.' 'Oh, you old cynics,' Jo said, shaking her head. On Wednesday, The Telegraph quoted what they called a well-placed source as saying the items had been made available in small quantities and quickly marked as sold out to generate interest, which is 'a common marketing ploy'. In a gushing post to her followers after the launch, Meghan wrote: 'Our shelves may be empty, but my heart is full! 'We sold out in less than one hour and I can't thank you enoughfor celebrating, purchasing, sharing, and believing. It's just the start @aseverofficial. Here we go!' Referencing the 'boasting' post, Richard said: 'She was on Instagram and Meghan was saying, "oh we've sold out and everything" and I just think hmm...' On the latest episode of Palace Confidential, the trio of royal experts then go on to discuss the criticism fired at Meghan by none other than Lady Carole Bamford, a British pioneer of organic food as well as one of the King's closest friend. Daniel Martin, who is Meghan's long-time makeup artist, posted about the As Ever range being sold out but noticeably didn't display a screenshot of an order Lady Carole Bamford (pictured), a British pioneer of organic food as well as one of the King's closest friend has criticised Meghan's As Ever brand as lacking authenticity Meghan shared footage of her 'fruit spread' being made. A Netflix source claims that staff were asked to sign NDAs to ensure the location of the factory remains secret Lady Bamford founded Daylesford Organic Farmshops and, according to Richard, spent 20 years nurturing farmland in order to sell authentically organic produce. 'She is usually very discreet,' Richard said. 'But she has called Meghan "crazy" and she said basically that Meghan's range lacks history and authenticity.' Explaining her reasoning, Richard said that Lady Bamford has produced an 'authentic brand' where all the items have been 'produced lovingly', whereas Meghan 'is just buying in fruit from goodness knows where and selling it as her own'. The Diary Editor also noted it was interesting that Lady Bamford has so openly criticised Meghan in this way. 'In the past, I think friends of the royal family would be nervous,' he said. 'It shows you how little concern there is about offending Harry and Meghan now.' For more fascinating insights from the Mail's team of unrivalled Royal experts, watch the latest episode of Palace Confidential in full now and subscribe to the Daily Mail Royals Youtube channel. A new development in the mystery of a purported city beneath Egypt's Giza pyramids could, if proven true, fundamentally reshape our understanding of human history. Italian researchers told DailyMail.com that not only are the shafts and chambers they found deep below the Khafre pyramid 38,000 years old, but also the Giza complex. The Giza complex, consisting of the Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure pyramids, is widely believed to have been constructed around 4,500 years ago. They proposed a pre-existing civilization built the complex, but the group was destroyed around 12,000 years ago by a 'divine flood' triggered by an asteroid impact that left only the pyramids as the surviving 'megastructure.' Mei, who visited the site two weeks ago, highlighted physical evidence, saying: 'Some blocks near the Great Pyramid's entrance show clear signs of water erosion.' 'Only certain stones are affected, suggesting part of the pyramid was submerged in ancient times,' he added. Mei also noted how thick salt encrustations have been found inside the Great Pyramid, which he interprets as proof of the ocean once flooded the Giza Plateau. Dr Zahi Hawass, Egypt's former Minister of Antiquities, has consistently argued that the features some interpret as water erosion at the base are due to natural weathering processes and the salt originated from the limestones themselves. Italian researchers told DailyMail.com that not only are the shafts and chambers deep below the Khafre pyramid 38,000 years old, but also the Giza complex Your browser does not support iframes. 'The enduring enigma of the Giza pyramids stands as a powerful and perplexing testament to this possibility,' said Mei. 'Despite extensive research, the precise methods employed in their construction remain a subject of intense debate and speculation.' He added that the 'logistical and technical capabilities required to quarry, transport, and precisely position multi-ton granite blocks, some of considerable dimensions, from distant locations like the granite quarries nearly 500 miles from Giza, warrant deeper and serious scientific inquiry.' Mei and his team, which includes Corrado Malanga from Italy's University of Pisa and Filippo Biondi with the University of Strathclyde in Scotland, took the world by storm last month when they discovered shafts and chambers more than 2,000 feet below the surface. They also identified chamber-like structures more than 4,000 feet underground, which they speculated could be a long-lost city. The work has not yet been published in a journal where outside experts can review it. The discovery was made by collecting acoustics from deep in the ground, including seismic waves, noise from human activity and photon interactions, to map the newly found shafts and chambers that extend more than 2,000 feet below the surface. Biondi said these waves were collected by radar, specifically by analyzing Doppler centroid abnormalitiesshifts or distortions in frequency patterns used to detect underground structures or changes. However, Hawass told The National: 'The claim of using radar inside the pyramid is false, and the techniques employed are neither scientifically approved nor validated.' Mei (center) and his team, which includes Corrado Malanga (right) and Filippo Biondi (left), took the world by storm last month when they discovered shafts and chambers more than 2,000 feet below the surface. Researchers believe there are other structures reaching more than 4,000 feet below the surface. The scans captured structures extend along the northern side with a tuning fork shape Now, the latest development from the Italian researchers is that the Giza pyramids also pre-date the oldest known man-made structure of its kind by tens of thousands of years, which is the Gobekli Tepe in Turkey. The team based their claims on an early 2000s theory known as the Younger Dryas, which is not a widely accepted theory within the scientific community, and is often viewed as a fringe theory. 'Scientists have stated that there aren't clues of an impact on Earth,' Mei said. 'But the Earth is 80 percent ocean. So it's possible that the impact was in in the ocean, and water destroyed the preceding civilization that lived on Earth.' He added that there are many signs across the world that suggest the existence of a preceding civilization, such as similar monuments in South America and China, 'even at Norfolk Island.' 'But not only the monuments, even the myths are similar everywhere in South America, in Europe, Africa and the South Pacific. There are legends that are similar to the other myths all around the world,' said Mei. Biondi explained that the pre-existing civilization in Egypt built the city first, then the shafts and then the pyramid on top, creating a 'megastructure.' The salt encrustations inside the Great Pyramid, according to the team, were left behind from ocean water flowing into the structure. Colonel Howard Vyse explored the pyramids' Kings Chamber in 1837, finding thick layers of salt on the limestone roof-stones in areas above the chamber. The said the technology captured enormous chambers (pictured) in the middle of the shafts The team claimed they discovered eight cylinder-shaped structures below the Khafre, which travel more than 2,100 feet below the pyramid's base. They identified spiral structures on the sides of the shafts He described these as crystalline deposits, later identified as sodium chloride, forming delicate, flower-like patterns. W.M. Flinders Petrie also surveyed the Great pyramid in the 1880s, finding thick salt encrustations (up to half an inch) on the limestone walls of the Queens Chamber and the Horizontal Passage. However, he did not report similar findings as Vyse inside the Kings Chamber. 'The underground tunnels of Giza have exactly the same presence of salt on the walls,' Mei said. 'That means that something happened in the ancient past which we must better understand.' Not only has the team used 'physical evidence' to support their claims, but also ancient Egyptian text that they said 'refers to an ancient civilization.' Mei explained that the theory of the lost city is based on ancient Egyptian texts, specifically Chapter 149 of the Book of the Dead, which refers to the 14 residences of the city of the dead. The shafts were said to be connected to larger, cubic structures. The team said there could be a hidden city below all three pyramids 'It describes certain chambers and some inhabitants of the city. That is why we believe it could be Amenti, as described in ancient texts,' he said. 'Of course, we must be certain, but we believe this could be the case because the pyramids are located exactly where the texts say. 'The texts state that the pyramids were built on top of the city, sealing its entrance.' Biondi also noted that the unknown chambers more than 4,000 feet below the pyramid could be related to the legendary Hall of Records. The Hall of Records is a long-standing myth in Egyptian lore, believed to be a hidden chamber beneath the Great Pyramid or the Sphinx, containing vast amounts of lost wisdom and knowledge about ancient civilizations. However, there is no reliable evidence proving its existence. Professor Lawrence Conyers, a radar expert at the University of Denver, who specializes in archaeology and was not involved in the study, said the claims that the pyramids and structures were built 38,000 years ago are 'outlandish.' He added that at that time in human history people 'were mostly living in caves' 38,000 years ago. 'People did not start living in what we now call cities until about 9,000 years ago,' he said. 'There were a few large villages before that but those only go back a few thousand years from that time.' However, Mei said: The notion that a civilization limited to rudimentary tools such as wooden mallets and copper chisels implements seemingly inadequate for such monumental tasks in hard stone could have achieved this level of engineering mastery demands a more robust and scientifically sound explanation than the often-cited, and frankly unconvincing, theory of water-soaked wooden wedges. 'The archaeological community really ought to start seriously addressing these fundamental questions, perhaps by first gaining a more practical understanding of the actual techniques required to extract colossal granite blocks from quarries, before proclaiming hypotheses that completely lack technical and scientific grounding.' A NASA astronaut who was stranded in space for 286 days still attended regular church services in an effort to stay connected with his faith. Butch Wilmore was one of two astronauts rescued earlier this month from the International Space Station, where he spent nine months after the spacecraft he arrived on suffered technical problems. Speaking alongside fellow astronaut Suni Williams in Houston on Monday, Wilmore revealed he maintained virtual contact with the Providence Baptist Church in Pasadena, Texas, throughout his time in space. 'The Word of God continually infilling me, I need it,' Wilmore said 'My pastors are the finest pastors on or off, in this case the planet. And to tie in and to worship with my church family was vital. I mean, it's part of what makes me go.' Wilmore is an elder at the church, and has attended with his family for 17 years. While in space, he led devotionals and joined others in singing Amazing Grace, he revealed. He would also watch the service at a friend's church in Tennessee 'every single week', insisting that weekly worship whilst orbiting was 'invigorating.' A NASA astronaut who was stranded in space for 286 days still attended regular church services in an effort to stay connected with his faith Butch Wilmore was one of two astronauts rescued earlier this month from the International Space Station , where he spent nine months after the spacecraft he arrived on suffered technical problems Even if it wasn't 'fellowship up close', Wilmore said he 'still needed it' during his time away. Both Wilmore and Williams have been hesitant to lay the blame squarely on any one party for the blunder which saw their eight-day mission extend beyond nine months. But SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, who had a hand in their return, claimed the Biden administration declined an offer he made to bring them home months earlier. He and Trump both maintained the duo's ordeal was extended for 'political reasons', and when Trump returned to the White House he demanded Musk 'bring them home.' Wilmore waded into Trump's allegations the Biden administration 'abandoned' him and his crewmate in space, saying he had 'no reason not to believe anything they say because they've earned my trust.' 'And for that, I am grateful,' he said, adding that it is 'refreshing,' 'empowering' and 'strengthening' to see national leaders taking an active role in NASA's human spaceflight program, which he described as globally significant. But both astronauts have repeatedly said they did not feel stranded, stuck or abandoned on the ISS, and they doubled-down on these statements during a recent Fox News interview. 'Any of those adjectives, they're very broad in their definition,' Wilmore said. Speaking alongside fellow astronaut Suni Williams in Houston on Monday, Wilmore revealed he maintained virtual contact with the Providence Baptist Church in Pasadena, Texas , throughout his time in space Wilmore is an elder at the church, and has attended with his family for 17 years. While in space, he led devotionals and joined others in singing Amazing Grace, he revealed Wilmore and Williams gave a joint interview in which they admitted NASA, Boeing and even the astronauts themselves had a role to play in its unexpected outcome 'So okay, in certain respects we were stuck, in certain respects maybe we were stranded, but based on how they were couching this that we were left and forgotten and all that we were nowhere near any of that at all. 'We didn't get to come home the way we planned. So in one definition we're stuck. But in the big scheme of things, we weren't stuck. We were planned, trained.' Wilmore and Williams gave a joint interview in which they admitted NASA, Boeing and even the astronauts themselves had a role to play in its unexpected outcome. Wilmore said that he, as the commander of crew flight test, was partly 'culpable' for not asking necessary questions for the crew launched on June 5. 'I'll admit that to the nation. There's things that I did not ask that I should have asked. I didn't know at the time that I needed to ask them,' he added. But in hindsight, the signals, some of the signals were there.' Wilmore also said that Boeing and NASA were to blame for the 'shortcomings in tests and shortcomings in preparations' that they all did not see. 'Everybody has a piece in this because it did not come off,' he said in the Fox News interview. Williams and Wilmore also shared their reactions to learning that they would be in space longer than they had expected. The pair finally returned from more than nine months in space on March 18, splashing down off the coast of Florida inside a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft Wilmore and Williams (pictured) were only supposed to spend eight days on the International Space Station when they launched aboard Boeing's Starliner on June 5 'My first thought was we just gotta pivot,' Williams told Fox News. 'If this was the destiny, if our spacecraft was gonna go home based on decisions made [by NASA] and we were gonna be up there until February, I was like 'okay, let's make the best of it.'' 'We were ready to just jump into it and take on the tasks that were given to us,' she added. Wilmore admitted he thought about his family the moment he heard about the extended stay. 'It's not about me,' he said. It's about what this human spaceflight program is about. It's our national goals. 'And did I think about not being there for my daughter's high school year? Of course. But compartmentalize. We've trained them to be resilient.' Daryn Wilmore (L), the teenaged daughter of NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore (center) has spoken out about her dad's health challenges after spending more than nine months in space Wilmore's daughter Daryn, 19, also offered an insight into her dad's return to Earth. She said while he's been 'adjusting to gravity well, he has been struggling with his muscles, joints and inner ears. That was 'because [he's] not used to gravity or having to hold up weight,' she said in response to a comment in a TikTok video. Research has shown that astronauts who complete long-term mission on the ISS which usually last six months experience muscle and bone loss as well as fluid shifts inside the inner ear due to low gravity. While it typically only takes a few days for the inner ear to readjust to Earth's gravity, regaining physical strength can take weeks to months. Some former astronauts have found that it can take up to 1.5 times the length of their mission to really feel like themselves again. Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots like ChatGPT have been designed to replicate human speech as closely as possible to improve the user experience. But as AI gets more and more sophisticated, it's becoming difficult to discern these computerised models from real people. Now, scientists at University of California San Diego (UCSD) reveal that two of the leading chatbots have reached a major milestone. Both GPT, which powers OpenAI's ChatGPT, and LLaMa, which is behind Meta AI on WhatsApp and Facebook, have passed the famous Turing test. Devised by British WWII codebreaker Alan Turing Alan Turing in 1950, the Turing test or 'imitation game' is a standard measure to test intelligence in a machine. An AI passes the test when a human cannot correctly tell the difference between a response from another human and a response from the AI. 'The results constitute the first empirical evidence that any artificial system passes a standard three-party Turing test,' say the UCSD scientists. 'If interrogators are not able to reliably distinguish between a human and a machine, then the machine is said to have passed.' Robots now have intelligence equivalent to humans, scientists say - as AI officially passes the famous Turing test (pictured: Terminator 3: The Rise of the Machines) GPT-4.5 has passed the famous 'Turing test' which was developed to see if computers have human-like intelligence Researchers used four AI models GPT-4.5 (released in February), a previous iteration called GPT-4o, Meta's flagship model LLaMa, and a 1960s-era chat programme called ELIZA. The first three are 'large language models' (LLMs) deep learning algorithms that can recognise and generate text based on knowledge gained from massive datasets. The experts recruited 126 undergraduate students from University of California San Diego and 158 people from online data pool Prolific. Participants had five-minute online conversations simultaneously with another human participant and one of the AIs but they didn't know which was which and they had to judge which they thought was human. When it was prompted to adopt a humanlike persona, GPT-4.5 was judged to be the human 73 per cent of the time more often than the real human participant was chosen. Such a high percentage suggests people were better than chance at determining whether or not GPT-4.5 is a human or a machine. Meanwhile, Meta's LLaMa-3.1, when also prompted to adopt a humanlike persona, was judged to be the human 56 per cent of the time. This was 'not significantly more or less often than the humans they were being compared to', the team point out but still counts as a pass. Overview of the Turing Test: A human interrogator (C) asks an AI (A) and another human (B) questions and evaluates the responses. The interrogator does not know which is which. If the AI fools the interrogator into thinking its responses were generated by a human, it passes the test GPT-4.5: This image shows a participant (green dialogue) asking another human and GPT-4.5 questions - without knowing which was which. So, can you tell the difference? LLaMa: This image shows a participant (green dialogue) asking another human and LLaMa questions. Can you tell the difference? Answers in box below Turing Test - answers GPT-4.5 Witness A: GPT-4.5 Witness B: Human LLaMa Witness A: Human Witness B: LLaMa Advertisement Lastly, the baseline models (ELIZA and GPT-4o) achieved win rates significantly below chance 23 per cent and 21 per cent respectively. Researchers also tried giving a more basic prompt to the models, without the detailed instructions telling them to adopt a human-like persona. As anticipated, the AI models performed significantly worse in this condition highlighting the importance of prompting the chatbots first. The team say their new study, published as a pre-print, is 'strong evidence' that OpenAI and Meta's bots have passed the Turing test. 'This should be evaluated as one among many other pieces of evidence for the kind of intelligence LLMs display,' lead author Cameron Jones said in an X thread. Jones admitted that AIs performed best when briefed beforehand to impersonate a human but this doesn't mean GPT-4.5 and LLaMa haven't passed the Turing test. 'Did LLMs really pass if they needed a prompt? It's a good question,' he said in the X thread. 'Without any prompt, LLMs would fail for trivial reasons (like admitting to being AI) and they could easily be fine-tuned to behave as they do when prompted, so I do think it's fair to say that LLMs pass.' The best-performing AI was GPT-4.5 when it was briefed and told to adopt a persona, followed by Meta's LLaMa-3.1 In 1950, legendary British computer scientist Alan Turing (pictured) proposed the theory of training an AI to give it the intelligence of a child, and then provide the appropriate experiences to build up its intelligence to that of an adult This is the first time that an AI has passed the test invented by Alan Turing in 1950, according to the new study. The life of this early computer pioneer and the invention of the Turing test was famously dramatised in The Imitation Game, starring Benedict Cumberbatch (pictured) Last year, another study by the team found two predecessor models from OpenAI ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4 fooled participants in 50 per cent and 54 per cent of cases (also when told to adopt a human persona). As GPT-4.5 has now scored 73 per cent, this new suggests that ChatGPT's models are getting better and better at impersonating humans. It comes 75 years after Alan Turing introduced the ultimate test of computer intelligence in his seminal paper Computing Machinery and Intelligence. Turing imagined that a human participant would sit at a screen and speak with either a human or a computer through a text-only interface. If the computer could not be distinguished from a human across a wide range of possible topics, Turing reasoned we would have to admit it was just as intelligent as a human. A version of the experiment, which asks to you tell the difference between a human and an AI, can be accessed at turingtest.live. Meanwhile, the pre-print paper is published on online server arXiv and is currently under peer review. With his flowing locks, long beard, and worn robes, Jesus is one of the most instantly recognisable figures in the Western world. So it comes as no surprise that his face is also regularly spotted in inanimate objects. This is due to 'face pareidolia' - a common brain phenomenon in which a person sees faces in random images or patterns. 'Sometimes we see faces that aren't really there,' explained Robin Kramer, Senior Lecturer in the School of Psychology, at University of Lincoln, in an article for The Conversation. 'You may be looking at the front of a car or a burnt piece of toast when you notice a face-like pattern. 'This is called face pareidolia and is a mistake made by the brain's face detection system.' This week, an optical illusion went viral, after viewers were baffled to spot Jesus' face when squinting at what first appears to be an ordinary photo of three young women. So, can you spot Jesus in these photos? This week, an optical illusion went viral , after viewers were baffled to spot Jesus' face when squinting at what first appears to be an ordinary photo of three young women In 2020, a woman was shocked to see the face of Jesus staring back at her from a Brussels sprout while she was preparing vegetables - and decided to spare it from the pan In 2008, a man in Darlington was amazed to spot an uncanny image of Jesus Christ in the foil wrapping of his cider bottle What is pareidolia? Pareidolia is a brain phenomenon in which you see or hear something significant in a random image or pattern. While you might not have heard of the phenomenon, it's likely you've experienced it, according to Kevin Brooks, a Senior Lecturer in Human Visual Perception at Macquarie University. 'This is something with which everyone has at least some experience, whether exercising their imagination as a cloud-gazing child, or seeing images in a textured ceiling during the last few waking moments of the day,' he explained in an article for The Conversation. Visual pareidolia - seeing something in an object - is the most common form of pareidolia. However, you've probably also experienced auditory pareidolia. Back in 2018, you may remember a viral video in which a toy made a noise, which people could heard as both 'brainstorm' or 'green needle'. Astonishingly, what you hear comes down to what you are thinking about at the time of watching it - even though it's the same recording. As two boozed-up men were waiting outside the Mayho Chinese Takeaway in Sunderland in 2012, they noticed that peeling paint and dirt on the door appeared to form the face of Jesus In 2019, a Virginia woman recorded the moment she spotted a rock formation that resembled the face of Jesus while walking down a trail In 2022, a father spotted the face of Jesus when he was chopping wood for a Christmas fire So you can pretty much choose what you want to hear. If you heard 'green needle' first, watch the video again while thinking about 'brainstorm'. Meanwhile, an auditory pareidolia that same year had listeners either hearing a man say the word 'yanny' or 'laurel'. Why do we see faces? Faces are 'somewhat special', according to Professor Brooks. 'From birth, humans show a fascination with faces that continues throughout our lives,' he explained. 'Given that babies blurred vision serves to exclude more distant objects while the faces of family members and friends are thrust into view, it is not surprising that we all become face experts, training our brains to search for and identify faces in any situation. 'As social animals, we constantly surround ourselves with faces, putting this skill to the test every day.' Why Jesus' face in particular? In 2010, shadowy features of what appeared to be the Messiah were discovered by internet fan Zach Evans while using Google Earth Do you see it? A family near La Paz, Mexico believe an image of Christ appeared in their bathroom wallin 2015 In 2016, an image of Christ appeared on an oven door in a kitchen of a home in a remote village of Slovakia Religious figures including Jesus and the Virgin Mary are some of the most common faces to be spotted in objects. Back in 2004, a woman from Florida sold a 10-year-old grilled cheese sandwich for a whopping $28,000, just because it had a pattern of browning which she claimed 'resembled the Virgin Mary'. Meanwhile, 'Shower Jesus' - a pattern of mould resembling Jesus Christ - sold for $1,999. According to Professor Brooks, religious icons have a 'habit of turning up in unlikely places'. 'Although devotees herald the blessings bestowed upon them by these apparitions (before selling to the highest bidder), science takes a more sober view, ascribing the phenomenon to coincidence, aided by a few quirks of neural processing that underlie our everyday perception,' he said. As for why many people tend to see religious figures, Professor Brooks suggests that could be due to the lack of photos of them. 'Many of the faces that are often reported, such as Jesus and the Virgin Mary, are individuals who predate photography, and whose facial identity cannot be known, other than through iconography,' he wrote. 'As such, the stimulus could match any one of many possible representations of Jesus or the Virgin Mary, making such apparitions more likely still.' With their bright colours and sweet flavourings, vapes have often been criticised for appealing too much to children. Now, an exceptionally dark gadget dubbed the 'Vape-o-Gotchi' takes that to an entirely new level. Inspired by the wildly popular Japanese toy Tamagotchi, this device links your e-cigarette to a virtual pet that dies if you stop puffing. The creators behind this bizarre device said they decided to make it because 'it'd be kind of funnier to be evil.' The Vape-o-Gotchi is a standard Elf Bar e-cigarette connected to custom electronics that detects whether or not the vape is being used. Explaining the gadget's morbidly simple premise, the creators say: 'It's a vape with a Tamagotchi in it. 'And if you do not hit the vape, the Tamagotchi will die.' Thankfully, the vape's creators say they don't have plans to make it commercially available. Dubbed the 'Vape-o-Gotchi' this dark gadget combines an e-cigarette with a digital pet that dies if you stop puffing The Vape-o-Gotchi was created by Rebecca Xun and Lucia Camacho for New York University's Stupid Hackathon. This is a unique engineering competition in which teams compete to 'make something stupid'. Speaking to Futurism, Xun and Camacho say they had originally intended the device to be a tool to help vapers kick their habit. In its original form, the Tamagotchi-style pet would actually die if its owner started to vape - hopefully urging people to vape less often. Camacho says: 'There's a big trend of parental locking yourself. 'It would be cool if you could have that for nicotine.' However, after entering the Stupid Hackathon, the pair found their darker, pro-vaping version was better suited to the competition's goals - and far more amusing. In the original Tamagotchi games, players look after a virtual pet by providing it with food and training. The Vape-o-Gotchi was created by Rebecca Xun and Lucia Camacho for New York University's Stupid Hackathon, a competition to create the 'something stupid'. The creators say they chose to make the pet die if users stopped vaping because 'it'd be kind of funnier to be evil.' The Vape-o-Gotchi, meanwhile, offers a much more simplistic 'game'. Xun says: 'It only survives off the vape at the moment.' Electronically, the device is also extremely simple in its construction. The only additions to a store-bought vape are a screen, a small computer, and a small device that measures when the vape is being used. The device tracks the pet's health and the remaining charge in the vape, changing the pet's animation depending on whether the user is vaping or not. On social media, the device has caused a stir with some fans begging for the release of a real Vape-o-Gotchi while others call for it to be banned. On X, formerly Twitter, one commenter wrote: 'The tamagotchi vape is killing meee I want one so bad I'll make sure to keep it alive'. 'The tamagotchi vape is speaking to me in a language I didn't know I understood,' another joked. Just like the original Tamagotchi game (pictured), users of the Vape-o-Gotchi have to keep their pets alive by providing for their needs. The big difference is that this virtual pet only 'survives off vape' On social media, the Vape-o-Gotchi proved to be divisive. While some thought that it was a bad idea, others said they loved the concept One social media commenter said they would love a Vape-o-Gotchi of their own and would 'make sure to keep it alive' One social media user added simply: 'I need the tamagotchi vape'. Not entirely unaware of the well-reported health impacts of vaping, many commenters also embraced the device's dark humour. One commenter mused: 'Cancer or dead Tamagotchi'. While one enthusiastic fan proclaimed: 'I WILL DIE BEFORE I LET MY TAMAGOTCHI DIE.' However, not everyone online saw the funny side of the Vape-o-Gotchi. 'Can we please ban this sort of thing,' one commenter implored. They added: 'A tamagotchi vape is only going to get more vaping.' While another bluntly wrote: 'That should def be a crime.' A few commenters embraced the dark humour of the project, musing whether it was worth getting cancer to keep their pet alive One enthusiastic fan proclaimed they would rather be killed by the health impacts of vaping than allow their Tamagotchi to die Other commenters were not so impressed, with one saying that the Vape-o-Gotchi should be 'a crime' Another commenter called for devices like this to be banned, claiming that it would only introduce more children to vaping In the future, Xun and Camacho say they might add the original 'good' mode in which users have to avoid vaping to keep their pet alive. Other improvements might include an egg-shaped enclosure to make the device more like a real Tamagotchi and a 'cuter' virtual pet. The pair have considered publishing their findings with the project so that people can make their own versions of the device. But, for now, the creators say that this remains 'a fun project' and not something they are looking to sell commercially. Belize's Great Blue Hole is one of Earth's most mysterious features. Anyone peering into the 125 metre (410ft) deep pit will wonder what secrets and stories lie beneath. Now, scientists have discovered the natural oddity provides evidence of a concerning trend. A layered sediment core extracted from the bottom of the hole provides a 5,700-year storm archive and it shows the weather is only getting worse. In 2022, researchers from Goethe University Frankfurt transported a drilling platform over the open sea to the Blue Hole, and then proceeded to extract a 30-metre sediment core from the underwater cave. Now, analysis reveals the layered sediment has served as an archive for extreme weather events for thousands of years, including tropical storms and hurricanes. Dr Dominik Schmitt, a researcher in the Biosedimentology Research Group and the study's lead author, said: 'Due to the unique environmental conditions including oxygen-free bottom water and several stratified water layers fine marine sediments could settle largely undisturbed in the Great Blue Hole.' The sediment core looks a bit like tree rings, with annual layers alternating in colour between grey-green and light green. The 410ft-deep Blue Hole is the largest in the world and, over thousands of years, has documented weather events through different layers of sediment build-up The layered sediment acts as an archive for weather events. Different features indicate extreme conditions caused by hurricanes or volcanic eruptions A man on a bicycle makes his way through a street blocked by branches of fallen trees after the passage of Hurricane Lisa in Ladyville, near Belize City, on November 3, 2022. The researchers said hurricanes like this are likely to be more common this century Over the years, storm waves and storm surges have transported coarse particles from the nearby atoll reef into the Hole, forming distinct layers at the bottom. These storm deposits stand out from the fair-weather grey-green sediments in terms of grain size, composition and colour, which ranges from beige to white. The research team, which also included scientists from Cologne, Gottingen, Hamburg, and Bern, identified a total of 574 storm events over the past 5,700 years. This provides a much longer snapshot of climate fluctuations and hurricane cycles than instrumental data and human records, which only date back around 175 years. They discovered that the distribution of storm event layers in the sediment core show the frequency of tropical storms and hurricanes in the southwestern Caribbean has steadily increased over the past 6,000 years. Higher sea-surface temperatures were also linked to increased storm activity, they found. Over the past six millennia, between four and 16 tropical storms and hurricanes passed over the Great Blue Hole per 100 years. However, the nine storm layers from the past 20 years indicate that extreme weather events will be significantly more frequent in this region in the 21st century, the researchers warned. Two divers investigating the Blue Hole. A sediment core collected from the bottom of the pit provides a 5,700-year storm archive and it shows the weather is only getting worse People stand next to fallen trees due to strong winds caused by tropical storm Sara in Tocoa, Honduras, on November 15, 2024 'Our results suggest that some 45 tropical storms and hurricanes could pass over this region in our century alone,' Professor Eberhard Gischler, who also worked on the study, said. 'This would far exceed the natural variability of the past millennia.' Natural climate fluctuations cannot account for this increase, the researchers warned, pointing instead to the ongoing warming during the Industrial Age, which results in rising ocean temperatures and stronger global La Nina events. This creates the perfect conditions for frequent storm formation and their rapid intensification, they added. Writing in the journal Science Advances they said: 'Predictions of tropical cyclone frequencies are hampered by insufficient knowledge of their natural variability in the past. 'A 30m-long sediment core from the Great Blue Hole, a marine sinkhole offshore Belize, provides the longest available, continuous, and annually resolved tropical cyclone frequency record. 'A 21st-century extrapolation suggests an unprecedented increase in tropical cyclone frequency, attributable to the Industrial Age warming.' Scientists predict nine hurricanes could impact the US this year, with eight states at significant risk of facing a major storm. Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and researchers at Colorado State University (CSU) suggested the US will see an 'above-average' number of named storms in 2025. This year, hurricane activity is expected to be about 25 percent higher than the average from 1991 to 2020. In 2024, it was about 30 percent higher than that average. According to their analysis, up to 17 named storms could form, with nine becoming hurricanes. Of those hurricanes, four should reach 'major' strength (Category 3 to 5) with sustained winds of 111 miles per hour or greater. The Gulf Coast and East Coast will face the brunt of the season's impact, as usual. But eight states in these regions have a more than 30 percent chance of a hurricane coming within 50 miles of their borders. These include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas. While Florida has the highest risk with a 65 percent chance of a hurricane tracking near the sunshine state. North Carolina and Louisiana aren't far behind at 46 percent, followed by Texas (44 percent), Georgia (37 percent), Mississippi and South Carolina (both 35 percent), and Alabama (34 percent). Scientists predict nine hurricanes could impact the US this year, with eight states at significant risk of facing a major storm. Pictured: Hurricane Katrina, 2005 As for the probability of major hurricanes impacting these states, Florida still faces the highest risk at 35 percent. The sunshine state is followed by Texas (19 percent), Louisiana (18 percent), Alabama and South Carolina (both 10 percent), Mississippi and North Carolina (both nine percent), and Georgia (eight percent). The researchers detailed their findings in a report published Thursday. In a statement, they warned coastal Americans to 'take proper precautions.' 'It takes only one storm near you to make this an active season for you,' said Michael Bell, co-author and professor of atmospheric science at CSU. This report is one of several hurricane season forecasts that will come out this spring. AccuWeather published theirs last week, predicting 13 to 18 named storms for 2025, including seven to 10 hurricanes. Of those hurricanes, three to six could directly impact the US, and three to five may reach 'major' strength, AccuWeather estimates. 'AccuWeather is forecasting near to above the historical average number of named storms, hurricanes, major hurricanes, accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) and direct impacts to the United States,' said lead hurricane expert Alex DaSilva. Bat Cave, North Carolina - October 8, 2024: Hurricane Helene brought devastation to North Carolina last fall, and this state is at significant risk of facing another major storm this year Bat Cave, North Carolina - October 8, 2024: At $78.7 billion in damage, Hurricane Helene was America's seventh costliest hurricane on record, according to an estimate from NOAA He added that there is a 20 percent chance of more than 18 named storms this year. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will release their 2025 hurricane season forecast in late May. Last year's hurricane season was very active and extremely destructive, with a total of 18 named storms, 11 of which became hurricanes. Of those hurricanes, five reached 'major' strength: Helene, Milton, Beryl, Kirk and Rafael. According to the CSU researchers, the most significant hurricanes of the 2024 season were Helene and Milton. The combined impact of these tropical cyclones caused over 250 fatalities and more than $120 billion in damage in the southeastern US, they reported. Category 4 Hurricane Helene was the deadliest Atlantic hurricane since 2017. It slammed into Florida's Big Bend region on September 26, then spread destruction up the East Coast, particularly in North Carolina. Hurricane Milton, a Category 5, was one of the most intense Atlantic hurricanes ever recorded in the Gulf of Mexico. It made landfall near Siesta Key, Florida on October 9 and devastated the sunshine state. Research shows that climate change is worsening hurricane impacts in the US by increasing their intensity and decreasing the speed at which they travel, according to the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions. The CSU researchers pointed to above-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea as a primary driver of the heightened storm activity they expect to see this year. St. Petersburg, Florida - October 10, 2024: Category 5 Hurricane Milton tore the roof off of Tropicana Field, home to the Tampa Bay Rays. Out of all states, Florida has the highest risk of experiencing a major hurricane in 2025 Port St. Lucie, Florida - October 11, 2024: Milton caused an estimated $34.3 billion of damage 'A warm Atlantic favors an above-average season, since a hurricanes fuel source is warm ocean water,' they explained. 'Additionally, a warm Atlantic leads to lower atmospheric pressure and a more unstable atmosphere. Both conditions favor hurricane formation.' Another key predictor of hurricane season intensity is the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) climate pattern. ENSO is a recurring climate pattern involving changes in central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean temperatures, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). 'On periods ranging from about three to seven years, the surface waters across a large swath of the tropical Pacific Ocean warm or cool by anywhere from [1.8F to 5.4F], compared to normal,' the agency explains. El Nino and La Nina are the extreme phases of the ENSO cycle, with El Nino characterized by warming of the ocean surface and La Nina characterized by cooling. There is also a neutral, in-between phase where Pacific Ocean surface temperatures are generally close to average. El Nino increases high-altitude westerly winds across the Caribbean into the tropical Atlantic, according to the CSU researchers. This decreases the chances of hurricane formation and intensification in the Atlantic. La Nina, on the other hand, tends to increase the intensity of hurricane season. The tropical Pacific is currently characterized by weak La Nina conditions, the CSU researchers reported. But they expect it to transition into the neutral phase over the next couple of months. The chances of a transition to El Nino are 'quite low' at 13 percent, which means we can expect atmospheric conditions to favor hurricane formation across the tropical Atlantic this year, the researchers concluded. Shocking documents declassified by the CIA have revealed a secret mission to find Nazi leader Adolf Hitler - 10 years after he supposedly died. According to multiple reports from the CIA archives, agents in South America were convinced the dictator was still alive in the 1950s and changed his name to remain under cover. One operative even said they found a photo in Colombia showing a man you resembled the infamous Nazi. Despite Allied forces finding a burnt body suggesting Hitler took his own life in a German bunker in April of 1945, documents declassified in 2020 revealed that US intelligence officials were trying to locate his 'hideout in Argentina' just months after World War II ended. Over the next decade, that search apparently never ended, and the CIA was still talking with informants who allegedly knew about Hitler's secret escape in 1955. Although the trail of documents appears to end in November of 1955, a shocking announcement out of Argentina is now reawakening the case. In March, President Javier Milei of Argentina ordered that his government declassify all documents on Nazis who sought refuge and were protected by the country after World War II. Argentina was a notorious hideout for former members of the Nazi party escaping punishment for war crimes 80 years ago, and now these documents could complete the puzzle an infamous CIA cold case. Recently released CIA documents show that US intelligence agents believed Adolf Hitler escaped Germany and fled to South America One document stated that officials were convinced Hitler would seek refuge in Argentina if he ever left Germany The unearthed documents described how the US War Department sent information to the FBI that Hitler may have a secret hideout at a spa hotel in La Falda, Argentina. The October 1945 file revealed that the owners of this hotel were major supporters of the Nazi party, making financial contributions to propaganda chief Joseph Goebbels, and became close friends of Hitler. According to US intelligence, Hitler never forgot the family's allegiance to the Nazis and even lived with them in the same hotel on their vacations in Germany. The War Department told the FBI they were convinced that Hitler would retreat to the hotel should Germany lose WWII or he was deposed as the Nazi leader. While Allied forces said they found Hitler's charred remains, another CIA document released in 2020 included a photo of a man believed to be the Nazi leader sitting with a friend in Colombia in 1954. The report from October 3, 1955 clearly stated that a US intelligence operation was taking place in order to confirm whether or not Adolf Hitler (also referred to as 'Adolph Hitler' in the files) had survived and secretly relocated to South America. The file revealed that an informant known as CIMELODY-3 spoke to a trusted friend who served under Hitler's command in Europe and had escaped to Maracaibo, Venezuela. The friend said that a man by the name of Phillip Citroen, a former SS trooper, claimed that Hitler was still alive in Colombia, that he spoke with the former Nazi leader monthly, and he took a recent picture with him. A photo secretly stolen by US agents revealed a man who former Nazis claimed was Hitler still alive in 1954 in Colombia US intelligence agents followed this trail for 10 years, despite evidence that Hitler allegedly killed himself and had his body burned in 1945 CIMELODY-3's friend, whose name was not given, was able to unknowingly steal the picture on September 28, 1955. In it, the man alleged to be Hitler was referred to as 'Adolf Schrittelmayor.' He was photographed sitting on a bench next to Citroen in Tunja, Colombia. The report added that former Nazi soldiers claimed Hitler eventually moved to Argentina in January of 1955. By the time US intelligence agents acquired the photo and made copies, WWII had been over for decade and the Nazis believed made them immune to prosecution. 'Philip Citroen - commented that inasmuch as ten years have passed since the end of World War II, the Allies could no longer prosecute HITLER as a criminal of war,' the document stated. Despite the alleged SS trooper's claims, US agents continued the hunt for Hitler, even though skeptics in the intelligence community called the photograph a 'fantasy.' US spies reported that the man in the picture with Hitler was a former German soldier who stayed in regular contact with Hitler while they both lived in South America The US intelligence community openly referred to this person of interest as Adolf Hitler (or Adolph Hitler) in their classified documents On November 4, 1955, intelligence headquarters in Washington approved of agents making contact with a person known in the files as 'GIRELLA' in order to further investigate the history of 'Adolf Schrittelmayor' in Colombia prior to 1955. However, the same classified document distributed to agents in South America also suggested that the case be dropped. 'It is felt that enormous efforts could be expended on this matter with remote possibilities of establishing anything concrete,' intelligence officials admitted. No other documents in this string of reports appear to be publicly available in the CIA's declassified files - suggesting that the matter was dropped or anything else that was discovered may still be declassified by the US government. Argentina's decision to follow America's lead in declassifying troves of old cases could soon open up even more information about the Pentagon's dealings with Nazis in South America. It is matter of fact and public record that the US government recruited former German scientists after WWII to work for America. This program, known as Operation Paperclip, ended up bringing roughly 1,600 German scientists to the US - including Wernher von Braun, who famously paved the way for NASA and America's early space missions. The new Argentinian documents are expected to detail the country's involvement with 'ratlines' - the secret international escape routes Nazis used to flee Germany before and after the end of WWII. It's currently unknown if any of the soon-to-be declassified reports will add any more evidence to the CIA's files on Hitler's alleged escape from death. Apple's prices are set to skyrocket to offset President Donald Trump's tariffs, making the pricey iPhone even more expensive. Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives has warned that the popular smartphones could reach $3,500 each, noting that building them in China is the only way to keep them affordable. The increase would put the iPhone on par with Apple's Vision Pro headset that flopped because of its hefty price tag. Trump slapped a 54 percent tariff on all Chinese goods imported into the US on Wednesday. Almost all iPhones are assembled in China. 'For US consumers, the reality of a $1,000 iPhone being one of the best-made consumer products on the planet would disappear,' said Ives. 'It speaks to our point that if consumers want a $3,500 iPhone, we should make them in New Jersey or Texas or another state....the concept of making iPhones in the US is a non-starter in our view at $1,000.' Apple had announced a $500 billion investment in the US back in February, in an effort to keep its prices down. However, Ives said that 'is it would take three years and $30 billion dollars in our estimation to move even 10 percent of its supply chain from Asia to the US with major disruption in the process.' Apple's prices are set to skyrocket to offset President Donald Trump's tariffs, making the pricey iPhone even more expensive Trump imposed a series of sweeping tariffs on countries around the world that could drastically alter the landscape of global trade, and consumer goods like iPhones could be among the hardest hit. 'Making Apple products and iPhones in the US sounds great behind the microphones in the 202 area code...but in reality they are a fantasy tale that in our view will never happen.....and if they are produced in the US will be 2x-3x more expensive,' Ives said in a Thursday email. 'It's the reality of the US labor market, developing and building a tech factory, chips being in Asia, and having the right skilled workers and engineers to operate a complex manufacturing arm such as Apple. 'Apple can produce certain products in the US like high-end Macs and some other hardware components...but these tariffs in their current form are a shut-off valve for US consumer sales or risk prices going up to levels that are hard to digest.' Apple sells more than 220 million iPhones a year; its biggest markets include the US, China and Europe. The cheapest iPhone 16 model has a sticker price of $799, but Ives' analysis predicts the upcoming smartphone could sell for more than double when it hits shelves later this fall. Trump imposed tariffs on a wide range of Chinese imports in his first term as president to pressure US companies to bring manufacturing either back home or to nearby countries such as Mexico, but Apple secured exemptions or waivers for several products. This time, CEO Tim Cook has not yet granted any exemptions. Barton Crockett, analyst at Rosenblatt Securities, said in a note: 'This whole China tariff thing is playing out right now completely contrary to our expectation that American icon Apple would be kid-gloved, like last time.' Trump slapped a 54 percent tariff on all Chinese goods imported into the US on Wednesday. Almost all iPhones are assembled in China China is expected to retaliate by imposing an additional 34 per cent tariffs on all US imports. Beijing announced the measure today, the most serious escalation in a trade war with Trump that has fed fears of a recession and triggered a global stock market rout. The new tariff, which comes into effect on April 10, matches the rate of the 'reciprocal' 34 percent levy imposed by Donald Trump this week. The levies are in addition to the existing tariffs already imposed on US goods. US exports to China totalled $143.5 billion last year, according to Office of the US Trade Representative data. Oilseeds and grains, including soybeans, machinery and aerospace products were America's top exports to the country. The US imported $438.9 billion worth of goods from China last year, with top imports including electrical and electronic equipment, machinery, toys, and plastics. Beijing's commerce ministry also said it will impose more export controls on rare earths, which are materials used in high-tech products such as computer chips and electric vehicle batteries. China added 11 entities to the 'unreliable entity' list, which allows Beijing to take punitive actions against foreign entities. The country also filed a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over sweeping US tariffs imposed on its exports. 'For all imported goods originating from the US, an additional tariff of 34 per cent on top of the current applicable tariff rate will be imposed,' China's Finance Ministry said today. Beijing's Commerce Ministry also imposed export controls on seven rare earth elements - including samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium and yttrium - to the US, effective April 4. 'The purpose of the Chinese government's implementation of export controls on relevant items in accordance with the law is to better safeguard national security and interests, and to fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation,' the Commerce Ministry said in a statement. The Commerce Ministry added: 'China has filed a lawsuit under the WTO dispute settlement mechanism.' The Australian brand was awarded ' best mattress for back care' Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more An Australian bedding company behind the mattress that was the winner of the 'Best Back Care' Award in 2025 has announced a huge sale. Yinahla is currently offering an impressive 15 per cent off its award-winning mattresses for a few weeks only as part of its Easter deals, so if you've been deliberating on whether to upgrade your sleep situation, the time is now. The Melbourne designed and handcrafted premium mattress brand promises a 'five star hotel sleep experience' with its balance of comfort and spinal support - and according to the hundreds of five star reviews, Yinahla delivers. The Classic Comfort mattresses range in prices - and sleepers struggling with back pain will be able to save big on single, king single, double, queen, king and super king. The mega sale runs until April 20. A good quality mattress is undoubtedly an investment, but Yinahla give their customers peace of mind with their generous trial period. You have 150 nights - that's five months - to ensure you've chosen the perfect mattress for your sleep needs. If muscle tension is not eased and posture not improved within the trial period, you will be given a full refund for the returned mattress, which the brand will then donate to charity. Award-winning brand Yinahla are holding a rare sale, with savings of hundreds of dollars on every mattress until April 20 The Classic Comfort mattress is the brand's best-selling all-rounder - comfortable for back, stomach and particularly side sleepers. The sustainably sourced and produced mattress is comprised of layers of Quiltec and Hypersoft Dunlop foam, enmeshed with a layer of the brand's proprietary Cloud Gel - which is 76 per cent more breathable than standard foam - for a cool night's sleep. The medium firmness mattress is also crafted with a nine zone Ultra-Coil pocket spring system with added Titanium. With over five times the spring count of the average innerspring mattress, joints and pressure points will be supported for full body comfort. Along with a 20 year warranty, the hypoallergenic mattress design is officially endorsed by the Australian Spinal Research Foundation. Yinahla has racked up hundreds of five star reviews, with many customers praising the quality and longevity of their mattress. 'My sleep time and quality has greatly improved, after suffering severe back pain requiring surgery,' one reviewer wrote on the brand's website. 'The mattress is four-years old and looks and feels like the day I got it.' The Melbourne designed and made mattresses have been awarded 'best mattress for back care' in 2025 'The mattress could not be better for me. It is very supportive and the best for sleeping that I have ever experienced over the many years of my life. The quality is outstanding,' added another customer. 'I purchased this mattress a year ago. Never looked back. I feel like I am on Cloud 9 every night and love going to bed. Absolutely love it and highly recommend it,' one customer raved. 'I have bought numerous mattresses over the years and thankfully have finally found one that gives me a great night sleep every night. 'Supportive and cosy at the same time. I had back surgery 20 years ago and have struggled with chronic back pain ever since. Often waking up already in pain. That has all changed. My bed is my favourite place to be. 'Since getting this mattress I have been able to start some exercise again. Do yourself a favour and try this mattress, especially if you struggle with back pain.' While the medium-firmness Classic Comfort is suitable for all sleepers, it is particularly excellent for side sleepers. If you prefer a softer or firmer mattress, or are more of a back or stomach sleeper, alternative mattress designs in the Yinahla range may be more suitable. The sustainably produced mattress is comprised of layers of Quiltec and Hypersoft Dunlop foam, enmeshed with a layer of the brand's proprietary Cloud Gel for a cool night's sleep The Visco Flex, Natural Latex, Premier Luxe and Posture Gel mattresses are all of medium-firm softness and suitable to back, stomach and some side sleepers. The Premier Firm design, as the name indicates, is the most firm of the range. Currently on sale, the ultra supportive mattress aligns the vertebrae of the spine and lifts sagging joints. Alternatively, the Copper Gel mattress is the brand's medium-soft option and also ideal for hot sleepers. Together with exceptional ventilation in its design, the mattress' gel layer is infused with thermally conductive copper, which draws heat out of the body and dissipates it into the mattress. Customers can save $624 on the Copper Gel mattress in the sale. The Yinahla range was named the winner of Australia's 'Best Back Care' Award by Bedbuyer in 2025, following the brand's win for 'Mattress of the Year' in 2022. To buy a Yinahla mattress, click here. Steak frites, escargot, croissants, and vin. Paris food scene has so much to offer, but TikTok influencers and tourist hotspots have now made it impossible for visitors to find authentic cheap eats. While instagrammable cafes and fairy-lit streets are certainly picturesque, food in tourist trap areas around the Champs-Elysee and Notre Dame is often overpriced and average at best. But have no fear - MailOnline has found the best tips to avoid the tourist traps so you can eat like a Parisian. TikTok influencers have made the prettiest places go viral - not those offering authentic Parisian cuisine. 1. If you want to eat like a local, avoid places surrounded by selfie sticks and vlogging TikTokkers The more Parisians you see eating inside a place, the better! Cafe de Flore and La Maison Rose, for example, both went viral for their cutesy exteriors and expensive hot chocolates with cream. MailOnline has found the best tips to avoid the tourist traps so you can eat like a Parisian Cafe de Flore (pictured above) went viral for its cutesy exteriors and expensive hot chocolates with cream but it's pricey But a hot chocolate with cream at Cafe de Flore will set you back 11.50/9.61, and the queues are often out the door. Try the quiet and cosy Maison Fleuret Paris instead - its just around the block and is set in an old bookstore. Or, for traditional French bistro food, try Bouillon Pigalle in the 18th arrondissement instead. They offer French onion soup, escargot, and creme brulee for very affordable prices of around 10-15/8.35-12.53. 2. Walk at least 10 minutes from a landmark to eat After a day marching around the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Champs-Elysee, it is easy to drop at the first restaurant you see. But cafes and restaurants located next door to these tourist hotspots are the worst for overpriced and disappointing food. If you can see the Eiffel Tower from your table, then its probably not a good sign. Walking just 10-15 minutes off the beaten path can get you to some incredible authentic eateries. For traditional French bistro food, try Bouillon Pigalle (pictured above) in the 18th arrondissement instead. They offer French onion soup, escargot, and creme brulee for very affordable prices Instead of stopping outside in busy squares where waiters vye to get you seated quickly, walk 10 minutes from the Eiffel Tower to Rue Cler for amazing bistros that Parisians frequent. 3. Look out for large menus in English and reviews all from Brits A telltale sign that youre at a tourist trap will be places with large menus translated into English, and Google reviews all from Brits and Americans. Be sure to dine at places with 3-4 mains on offer, as they are more likely to be homemade and have quality ingredients. Seasonal dining is also important to Parisian culture - if restaurants have an unlimited menu all year round, then theyre catering for the masses and not for delicate French palates. Places that offer a crowded menu of foods from all over France rather than one region, such as fondue, crepes, and raclette, are unlikely to be good at cooking all. Specialised restaurants in crepes, for example, will often only serve crepes and ice cream. 4. Go to Paris 17th century covered market Try dining at covered markets as a highbrow, but still affordable, alternative. Le Marche Couvert des Enfants Rouges is pictured above The student traveller knows that supermarkets are your wallets best friend while on holiday. But for those wanting to blend in with sophisticated Parisians, try dining at covered markets as a highbrow, but still affordable, alternative. Le Marche Couvert des Enfants Rouges is the oldest food market in Paris and was opened in 1615, making it pretty much the most authentic taste of Paris you can get. The wide variety of food on offer means there is a price point for everyone, and a cuisine for everyone too, with stalls selling Moroccan, Lebanese, Italian, and Japanese food alongside traditional French produce. 5. Try these Parisian-approved recommendations MailOnline spoke to real Parisians to get their authentic and budget-friendly recommendations. The Cafe du Commerce emerged as a top choice among locals. Commerces art deco interior has been preserved from when the restaurant first opened in the 1920s, and diners will have to look up to spot the discreet sign above the rue du Commerce to enter this low-key Parisian gem. The Cafe du Commerce (pictured above) is a top choice among locals And once inside you can enjoy iconic French dishes like onion soup, snails, and steak frites for around just 20-30/16.71-25. For outdoor summer dining where you can enjoy a cigarette after dinner like a Parisian, head to Elia in the 11th arrondissement for great Greek street food at reasonable prices. Lunch and dinner bites are all around 10 euros. For a sweet treat, head to the Canal Saint Martin and go to Du Pain et des Idees cafe and bakery for a delicious baked good for 5/4.18 or less. Their pastries are fresh daily, and you can takeaway or dine outside while enjoying a cafe au lait and soaking up the Parisian atmosphere. Gatwick has changed its rules on liquids and laptops ahead of the Easter hols Gatwick Airport has changed its rules on liquids and laptops at security, just in time for the Easter holidays. Passengers will no longer need to put their liquids in a clear plastic bag or remove electronics, such as laptops, from their bags at security. This is due to the airport's new scanners which Gatwick bosses have described as 'cutting-edge technology'. The airport's scanners are HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX CT scanners, designed by Smiths Detection, and are expected to cut waiting times at security. The scanners use X-ray technology to create a 3D view of a bag's contents. Security staff can then tilt, enhance and rotate the images to see what's inside, removing the need for passengers to take liquids and electronics out of their bag. This technology has actually been used by airports to scan hold luggage for some time but the first scanners were too large for passenger areas. Travellers will still need to keep to the 100ml rule in hand luggage and make sure all their liquids are within the requirements. However, passengers at several of the UK's other major airports, will still need to follow the old rules. New airport scanners at several major UK airports won't require passengers to take their liquids out of their bags. Pictured above is the HI-SCAN scanner at Southend Airport The scanners use X-ray technology to create a 3D view of a bag's contents. Security staff can then tilt, enhance and rotate the images to see what's inside, removing the need for passengers to take liquids and electronics out of their bag Heathrow, Stansted and Manchester are among the UK's major airports to still require passengers to remove liquids from their bag. Several airports, including Heathrow, have confirmed they are installing the new equipment. Heathrow has said it is 'in the process of upgrading its security equipment' which is set to 'transform the passenger experience'. Manchester Airport has said: 'Manchester Airport Security is in the process of upgrading its equipment. This next-generation security will transform the passenger experience by making it smoother, seamless and stress-free. However, until we've upgraded all of our security screening equipment, passengers should prepare for security as normal.' In a statement, Glasgow Airport said it is aiming to have the scanners in place by the 'end of April'. London Stansted, Southampton and East Midlands airports have also confirmed they are in the process of upgrading their equipment. The Government's initial deadline for all UK airports to have the new technology was June 1 2024 but this was delayed after several hubs were unable to meet the target. Passengers also need to be aware that the new technology isn't in place in many countries around the world. London Gatwick now has the new scanners in place (pictured above) Travellers may still be required to remove their liquids and electronics when trying to fly back into the UK. Which UK airports allow you to keep liquids in your bag? Birmingham Bristol Edinburgh Gatwick Leeds Bradford Liverpool Luton Newcastle Southend Teesside Which UK airports still require you to remove liquids? Airlines have warned holidaymakers about suitcase colours they should never use. If passengers want to avoid the disaster of losing their luggage, which could make or break a holiday, it is best to have a distinctive suitcase. Ryanair have said if you want to make sure you don't swap your luggage with somebody else's, then black, grey and navy are the colours to avoid. The budget airline said: 'Make it easier to spot your checked-in luggage on the carousel, especially if your luggage is black, navy or grey. 'Add a colourful luggage tag or ribbon to the handle so that there's no confusion on arrival.' It comes after a report from The Economic Times found that black bags are the most commonly lost of any colour at airports. While it may be the obvious choice, passengers could unknowingly be increasing their chances of a travel nightmare. Frankfurt Airport boss, Stefan Schulte, has also urged people to avoid black luggage while travelling, as his airport has struggled with those that are 'hard to distinguish from each other'. If passengers are trying to avoid the disaster of losing their luggage, it is best to have a distinctive suitcase He said: 'Many people travel with black suitcases on wheels which makes identifying them very time-intensive.' The dark tones make black suitcases almost indistinguishable from one another on the conveyor belt, especially when flights are packed with passengers and luggage. If tourists want to avoid lost bags and having to rely on their travel insurance, choosing a more colourful bag or tag is the way to go. These can also make it easy for airport staff to help identify your bags and have them returned to you if they do get lost. Luton Airport is set to double its capacity after the government granted permission for its expansion. The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, overruled planning inspectors who recommended rejecting the expansion over environmental concerns. Luton's plans will see its existing terminal expanded and a whole new terminal built as well as new taxiways. The airport is hoping to double its annual passenger numbers to 32 million by 2043. Currently, about 16.7 million travellers use Luton Airport every year, which is the fourth largest airport in the London area. A decision on the expansion plans had previously been delayed three times. Concerns had been raised about ancient trees and the impact of an increased number of flights on the Chilterns National Landscape. Luton Airport has said that the airport's expansion will be a 'green controlled-growth mechanism'. Its plans include providing public transport access to the airport and sticking to binding targets on noise and emissions. Luton Airport is set to double its capacity after the government granted permission for its expansion The airport is hoping to double its annual passenger numbers to 32 million by 2043 The airport also expects the expansion to create around 11,000 new jobs. Luton Rising, the airport's owner, said: 'Our scheme will deliver up to 11,000 new jobs, additional annual economic activity of up to 1.5bn, and up to an additional 13m every year for communities and good causes.' A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 'Improving our national infrastructure is critical to achieving growth and delivering jobs across the country, and this decision will help us deliver growth as part of our plan for change. 'This step underlines the government's commitment to unlocking vital infrastructure and backing growth.' However, LADACAN, a campaign group against the airport's expansion, said: 'The increasing costs of damage caused by climate change will rub out any benefits from the government's Green Power Plan in five years, according to the New Economics Foundation. 'Being awoken at night by aircraft noise increases the chance of stroke or heart disease according to the World Health Organisation. Increased health harms add to the costs on the NHS.' Luton Airport is currently a base for several airlines including easyJet and Ryanair while Jet2 opened a new base there earlier this week. Jet2's first flight from Luton took off on April 1 and the carrier is set to operate 36 flights a week from its new base. Mr Burton (12A, 124 mins) Verdict: So-so biopic Rating: Richard Burton was born at home in Pontrhydyfen, near Port Talbot, and was buried under the worlds gaze in Celigny, near Geneva. That alone hints at the extraordinary path his life took between his birth a century ago this year and his death in 1984 at the age of 58. And consider this: the 12th of a hard-drinking coalminers 13 children, he went on to outbid Aristotle Onassis for a diamond and marry the most famous and glamorous actress in the world, twice. Marc Evanss film Mr Burton tells us what, or rather who, propelled him on that eventful journey. Charmingly played by Toby Jones, the title character is not Richard but Philip Burton, the quietly charismatic teacher and playwright whose surname he took. Mr Burton taught him Shakespeare, changed his elocution, masterminded his RAF scholarship to Oxford University, and even tried to adopt him. A quote from the aforementioned actress sums up Mr Burtons significance. Charmingly played by Toby Jones, the title character is not Richard but Philip Burton, the quietly charismatic teacher and playwright whose surname he took Toby Jones as Philip Burton and Harry Lawtey as Richard Burton. Richard Jenkins, yet to become Burton, is 17 years old when we first meet him in wartime South Wales Without Philip Burton there never would have been a Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor once wrote. That great rolling voice that cracked like wild Atlantic waves would never have been heard outside the valley. Richard Jenkins, yet to become Burton, is 17 years old when we first meet him in wartime South Wales. He is played by Harry Lawtey, best-known as the upwardly mobile investment banker Robert Spearing in the BBC series Industry. Lawtey is 28 and in truth looks rather more like a banker than a schoolboy. The strategy to stop him looking like the oldest teenager in the Valleys is by making the other kids in his class look even older, encouraging the irreverent thought that there might be a sinister aging chemical in the Pontrhydyfen water. That aside, Lawtey does a creditable job. Rich, or Richie, is motherless and all but fatherless too, unless he seeks out his da in the pub, where Dic Jenkins (Steffan Rhodri), a roaring raconteur as well as a roaring drunk, holds court every night. Rich lives with his beloved much older sister, Cis (Aimee-Ffion Edwards), and her brusque husband, Elfed (Aneurin Barnard), but eventually moves into Mr Burtons digs, run by the mumsy Ma Smith (a twinkly Lesley Manville). Rich lives with his beloved much older sister, Cis (Aimee-Ffion Edwards), and her brusque husband, Elfed (Aneurin Barnard), but eventually moves into Mr Burtons digs, run by the mumsy (pictured) Ma Smith (a twinkly Lesley Manville) The film flirts gently, coyly, with the possibility that there might be a less-than-wholesome dimension to Mr Burtons interest in young Jenkins The film flirts gently, coyly, with the possibility that there might be a less-than-wholesome dimension to Mr Burtons interest in young Jenkins. But it is not dwelt on. This is an uplifting story of an inspirational, avuncular teacher and a gobby but bright pupil, who, after he is punished by being told to learn the prologue to Shakespeares Henry V, reports back that it didnt seem like a punishment at all. He loved it. Rich leaves school when his brother-in-law Elfed finds him humdrum work in the drapery department of the Port Talbot Co-op, but it does not last, and soon he is back under Mr Burtons spell, striding the hillsides working on his voice projection, and joining an amateur dramatics society. When he features in a production of Pygmalion the irony hardly needs signposting, given the obvious Eliza Doolittle-Professor Higgins dynamic in his own life. This is all quite engaging and illuminating, and nicely evocative of time and place. But as biopics go, Mr Burton is not in the same division as, say, the recent A Complete Unknown, about the young Bob Dylan. It gets strangely ponderous at times, then takes sudden narrative leaps, whisking us eight years forward to Stratford, for example, where Burton is now an up-and-coming star as well as a chip off the old block, saturated in alcohol. There is a sad scene in which he turns drunkenly on his old mentor, but that, we quickly realise, is calculated to set up a moving denouement, in which Mr Burton, after seeing Rich perform, reacts rather like Ian Holms Sam Mussabini in Chariots Of Fire (1981), in the wake of his protege Harold Abrahams winning Olympic gold. For all the frailties of this film, that made me shed a tear. Mr Burton is in cinemas now. Weve seen plenty of dramas about ex-cons out for revenge, corrupt coppers and absent fathers bonding with their daughters. New drama Reunion has them all, while also being something entirely different as its the first British TV thriller to be set in the deaf community. Matthew Gurney is full of brooding menace as Daniel Brennan, who is released from jail ten years after allegedly murdering a close family friend. His parents dont want him around, his daughter Carly is missing and the deaf community has shunned him. But he has a plan starting with revenge for the events that led to him being jailed. Along the way he finds Carly (Rivals star Lara Peake) and is forced to decide what matters most. Adolescence star is back on screens in new five-star thriller on BBC - and it promises to be just as chilling Fans of Adolescence may recognise Emilia Holliday who plays young Carly in episode three after a brief appearance as Katie in the hit Netflix drama Fans of Adolescence may recognise Emilia Holliday who plays young Carly in episode three after a brief appearance as Katie in the hit Netflix drama. Its an amazing story, says Matthew, whos had minor film roles and is also a comedian. Plus, in my previous films, deaf and disabled characters have been portrayed in stereotypical ways. 'This is different, this man is hated in the deaf community. Thats why I wanted to be involved it doesnt patronise deaf people. The four-part series, set in Sheffield, was created by deaf writer William Mager and features both deaf and hearing actors as well as some deaf crew members. Anne-Marie Duff plays Christine (right), the wife of the man Brennan is supposed to have murdered, while Strictly winner Rose Ayling-Ellis plays her daughter Miri. They are determined to find out why Brennan murdered his friend, but by the end of the series their lives have been turned upside down. There are so many moments that are specific to deaf culture, I just felt I had to be involved, says Rose. A deaf writer knows exactly what its like from my perspective and Ive never had that before. Im excited for viewers to see that being deaf can be funny. Anne-Marie Duff plays Christine (right), the wife of the man Brennan is supposed to have murdered, while Strictly winner Rose Ayling-Ellis (pictured) plays her daughter Miri When we meet student Miri, whos also deaf, shes on a trip back home. Her relationship with her mum, who can hear, is rocked when she finds out Christine knew about Brennans release, butalso that her mother has a new boyfriend, ex-copper Stephen Renworth (Eddie Marsan). Shifty Stephen has secrets of his own. Theres a moment where Miri winds Stephen up by using sign language, she says. I love that a lot of deaf humour is taking the mickey out of hearing people. Sorry, but thats what we do. For Anne-Marie, plunging into the deaf world was a revelation. Ive never immersed myself in that culture. 'As an actor I love my work to feel valuable. Most of the time it can feel a bit frivolous but this felt profoundly worthwhile. Anne-Marie learned British Sign Language fluently and says shes fallen in love with it. I was an absolute beginner when it came to signing. 'Its like visiting a beautiful country where Ive had to learn the language and its been brilliant. Reunion airs Monday and Tuesday at 9pm on BBC One and is available to stream on iPlayer. EastEnders fans all have the same burning question after spotting something very wrong with The Prince Albert bar in a recent TikTok. The BBC soap's official account posted a video of stars Ellie Dadd, Aaliyah James and Jaden Ladega doing the Anxiety dance trend on the social media platform. The trio showed off their best moves to Doechii's tune Anxiety in front of Walford's gay bar The Prince Albert. But some eagled-eyed fans rushed to the comments section to all point out the same thing - that a poster on the building was blurred out. One fumed: 'WHY IS IT BLURRED.' Another asked: 'I wonder why they covered that poster.' EastEnders fans all have the same burning question after spotting something VERY wrong with The Prince Albert bar in a recent TikTok The BBC soap's official account posted a video of stars Ellie Dadd, Aaliyah James and Jaden Ladega doing the Anxiety dance trend on the social media platform Ellie, 20, has played Amy Mitchell in the soap since 2022, while Aaliyah took on the role of Avani Nandra-Hart in 2023. Jaden has played Denzel Danes in the show since 2023. But one person pointed out: 'The blur is probably the poster for the silent disco theyre having on the new part of the square theyre opening up soon.' A second asked: 'Is this is a hint to the new silent disco club?' The Prince Albert was welcomed to the Square in 2019. It has previously been known as Roxy's, The Albert, Beauty and Sophisti-Kate's. The bar has become more popular in recent weeks because of the huge explosion that happened at the Queen Vic as part of the 40th anniversary week. Because the residents of Walford haven't been able to go to their local for a pint, they've been visiting the gay bar instead. And unfortunately Martin Fowler was killed during the explosion. It comes after Louisa Lytton confirmed that she has left EastEnders, six months after her surprise return to the BBC soap last year. The actress, 36, reprised her role as Ruby Allen in November, after exiting the show three years earlier to welcome her daughter Aura, three, with husband Ben Bhanvra. The return of Ruby brought huge fireworks, as she revealed she had welcomed a secret son, Roman, by ex-husband Martin Fowler (James Bye). While the pair eventually reconciled, Martin was then tragically killed off during the soap's 40th anniversary live episode, having been crushed by a steel beam while rescuing his longtime love Stacey Slater after an explosion at the Queen Vic. With the beloved character's funeral approaching, Louisa has now announced she has also said goodbye to Albert Square. Speaking to The Sun, she confirmed that her return stint was only intended to last until James' exit as Martin, but teased that the door is open for her to come back again. She said: 'I left EastEnders a couple of weeks ago. I was only back for six months, to tie in with the 40th and Martins exit. 'Its always good to come and go and I never see it as a big thing when I leave because I can be back again! Its all been left open.' EastEnders airs on BBC One and is available to stream on ITVX. Love On The Spectrum US reality show following people with autism as they search for romance Year: 2022- Certificate: 12 Watch now on Netflix Finding love in the modern world is never easy, but it's even harder for those on the autism spectrum. This show follows neurodiverse men and women across America as they dip their toes in the dating waters with various degrees of success. Like its Australian predecessor, it takes a light and often soapy approach to the romantic encounters on display, but audiences swiftly become seriously engaged in the struggles and triumphs of its cast. The fact that many familiar faces from series one return in the second run alongside new romantic hopefuls will be welcome news for the show's fans. (Three series) Dying For Sex Michelle Williams stars in a based-on-truth comedy about a woman whose terminal cancer diagnosis sends her on a sexual journey Year: 2025 The best jokes are usually grounded in truth, and there aren't many truer things than death. Such is the basis of Dying For Sex, an eight-part comedy about a woman whose terminal cancer diagnosis sends her away from her husband, and on to an enthusiastic journey of sexual and personal discovery - one that helps her find power in the face of powerlessness. Based on the true story of Molly Kochan, who died in 2019 and documented her adventure on a podcast also called Dying For Sex, the series has a great star in Michelle Williams. One of the most emotionally sure-footed actresses of her generation, Williams threads the needle of a performance that finds her weak and vulnerable with doctors one minute, then altogether more... in control behind closed doors (and even some open ones) the next. Packed with layers, the show also seesaws from moments of laugh-out-loud comedy to dark introspection, with half-hour episodes that help to make its heavy subject matter more digestible. Molly's friend in the series, Nikki (Jenny Slate), is based on Nikki Boyer, who hosted the podcast Molly told her story on. Look out too for Catastrophe's Rob Delaney as Molly's neighbour, a man with his own issues. (Eight episodes) Austin Ben Miller stars as the children author who learns he has a grown-up neurodivergent son down under Year: 2024 Certificate: 12 Watch now on BBC iPlayer Australia fell in love with the straight-talking Michael Theo when he appeared on the TV dating show Love On The Spectrum, and it wasn't long before he was cast in this comedy. It's co-created by our very own Ben Miller, who also stars as Julian Hartswood, an English children's author who, while on an Australian book tour, finds himself unceremoniously cancelled after an ill-advised tweet. This developing career crisis is soon eclipsed by news that he has as a grown-up autistic son called Austin (Theo), the result of a youthful fling. It's news for him, but also for his wife of 30 years, Ingrid (Sally Phillips) and their teenage daughter. There's some overlap with Ingrid's relationship with Julian, and his with Austin's mum Mel, so while cynical Julian and the refreshingly honest Austin start to bond, Ingrid embarks on her own shift in perspective. The humour takes a broad approach to midlife and the crises that can unfold. Julian and Ingrid are archetypal self-indulgent middle-class Brits; Austin's mum and her father are classic down-to-earth Aussies. So far, so standard. It's down to Austin, then, to shake things up and make this into something different. Which he does in his own endearingly unique way. (One series) The Child In Time A powerful study of love and loss, based on the novel by Ian McEwan Year: 2017 Certificate: 12 Watch now on Channel 4 Benedict Cumberbatch and Kelly Macdonald star in this poignant feature-length adaptation of Ian McEwan's 1987 novel, exploring the almost impossibly painful consequences of a child going missing. From its opening scene, it's clear that the story has lost none of its heartbreaking power in the decades since the novel was published and since this adaptation first aired in 2017. It begins with children's book author Stephen (Cumberbatch) taking his four-year-old daughter to the supermarket, only to find himself going home alone. A lyrical and at times otherworldly study of the nature of love and loss, it is a nightmare for parents, but with powerful resonance for us all. (93 mins) Pulse (2025 series) Miami-set medical drama based around the staff of a hospital ER Year: 2025 Certificate: 15 Watch now on Netflix Personal and professional relationships bubble up among the staff of a Miami hospital's emergency room as Dr Danielle 'Danny' Simms (Willa Fitzgerald from Reacher series one) is unexpectedly promoted to the top job, after the old chief (her boyfriend) is suspended. And if the day-to-day run of saving lives under immense pressure isn't enough, there's always the possibility of a hurricane hitting the city to worry about... Aimed squarely at fans of The Resident and Grey's Anatomy, this is a slick, exciting watch stuffed full of personal conflicts and medical derring-do, with a very talented young cast filling out the scrubs. In particular, look out for Endeavour's Jack Bannon as charming, smart-talking surgeon Tom Cole - he's a lot of fun to watch. It's hard to believe but this is actually the first ever English language medical drama Netflix has commissioned but, on this polished and exciting evidence, it's unlikely to be the last. If they could sharpen up the CGI weather a little for series two though, that would be much appreciated... (Ten episodes) Don't Worry Darling Florence Pugh and Harry Styles headline a psychological romantic thriller Year: 2022 Certificate: 15 Watch now on Prime Video Watch now on Netflix Welcome to Victory, California, an idyllic company town in the middle of the desert where the white-picket-fenced values of 1950s America are alive and well. At first, new wife Alice (Florence Pugh) couldn't be happier, living a life of idle luxury while her husband Jack (Harry Styles) disappears off to work for the corporation run by the mysterious Frank (Chris Pine). Slowly though, she begins to have doubts about the reality of the life she's living and wonders if this perfect town harbours a dark secret. Pugh gives a fantastic performance of tension and terror in a film that beautifully echoes the classic suburban horror of movies such as The Stepford Wives - and Styles does perfectly well, too. When it was released, the movie's reputation suffered for all the gossip surrounding his relationship with the director, Olivia Wilde, and rumours of tumult on set with Pugh, so it's good that it can be appreciated free of all that now. (123 minutes) Despicable Me 4 Will Ferrell joins the voice cast for a sequel that sees Gru in witness protection Year: 2024 Certificate: u When the first Despicable Me movie arrived in 2010, its success spawned a whole family animation franchise that even included spin-off movies for the hilarious Minions. What's been remarkable about that franchise is how fun it's remained, even in this third sequel to the original movie which finds Steve Carell's Gru, now very much a good guy, being forced to relocate with his family after the reignition of an old feud. There's a lot of fun to be had in what follows as Gru - who is still anything but ordinary - tries to go unnoticed in a sleepy town, an ambition complicated by the fact that the snotty child next door is an aspiring villain and knows exactly who he is. With some fun voice cast additions including Will Ferrell and Modern Family's Sofia Vergara, a script co-written by The White Lotus's Mike White and a hilarious sub-plot in which the Minions are given misfiring superpowers, this is a sequel packed with fun that manages not to outstay its welcome. Some of that fun may feel like empty calories to some but there's no doubt that it's there, and in spades. (95 minutes) Banger Vincent Cassel headlines a French comedy thriller about a washed-up DJ Year: 2025 Certificate: 15 Watch now on Netflix Ageing DJ Scorpex (Vincent Cassel) is so far past his peak that he can barely even see it in the rear-view mirror, but then an unexpected opportunity drops into his lap. Nabbed by the French security services, he's asked to befriend Vestax (Mister V), a rising star in the music world, and use his new buddy's contacts to infiltrate the operation of a Russian mobster. Scorpex has no choice but to say yes... especially once he realises that he could use the whole set-up to his own advantage and engineer a return to his musical glory days. This is a bright and entertaining French comic thriller, anchored with twinkle-eyed brilliance by Cassel as Scorpex, a monstrously likeable egomaniac who refuses to believe that his days in the spotlight are permanently over. (90 minutes) Wonderland: Science Fiction In The Atomic Age Four-part series exploring the science fiction that followed the Second World War Year: 2025 'I told you so, you damned fools.' So went the desired epitaph of HG Wells, just one of the many sci-fi authors whose writing held an uncomfortable mirror up to the technological developments that followed the Second World War. This documentary series takes an unashamedly high-minded but still accessible tour of the work of such authors, including Mary Shelley, Kurt Vonnegut, Isaac Asimov, Arthur C Clarke and Margaret Atwood. Its four episodes aren't just full of cautionary tales, though - along with pondering the doom promised by the atomic bomb, such fiction also reflected the hope that came from such great leaps as the Moon landing in 1969. Clips of films like Dr. Strangelove and Fail Safe are interspersed with thoughtful reflections from writers, and the viewing journey it takes you on makes you wonder what the world would have looked like had these books not been written. Would it still be here? (Four episodes) I'll Be Right There Family comedy drama starring Edie Falco as the mother of a brood of grown-up kids Year: 2023 Certificate: 12 Watch now on NOW Watch now on Sky Life is far from simple for Wanda (Nurse Jackie's Edie Falco). Her heavily pregnant daughter wants a normal wedding, her off-the-rails son wants to be anything but normal, while her mum thought she had cancer but turns out 'just' to have leukaemia. Wanda's romantic life is no easier, as she juggles both a dull boyfriend and a new girlfriend, but really isn't that keen on either of them. Wistful and funny, with a neat line in self-deprecating wit, this is a wholeheartedly enjoyable indie comedy drama about a woman learning about what she wants from the world. Falco is dry and exasperatedly funny as Wanda with fine support from a cast that includes Atypical's Michael Rapaport and The West Wing's Bradley Whitford. (98 minutes) Macbeth (2024 David Tennant production) David Tennant and Cush Jumbo star in this innovative and powerful Donmar Warehouse production Year: 2024 Certificate: 15 Watch now on Marquee TV London theatre can be a pricey experience, and this Donmar Warehouse production of Macbeth was right up there. A lot of that was down to the star names on the banner - David Tennant and Cush Jumbo. Tennant, whose Hamlet was the toast of the town way back in 2008, is as good as you'd expect as Macbeth here, his emotions washing around under the surface of his face like waves, occasionally cresting out across the stage and right onto us when he delivers monologues to camera. Jumbo is also a treat, seemingly so utterly at home as Lady Macbeth - both in the character and in the rhythm of the lines - that you just simply don't see the acting. It's like Lady Macbeth is just walking around on stage. The production that surrounds them is full of technical wizardry, with the audience given headphones that allowed for whispers to reach way up into the gods, while clear screens around the stage show us absent characters in a spectral light. The moment after the murder, when Jatinder Singh Randhawa's hilarious Porter comes out and chats to the audience off the cuff is a very neat break in what can be a very intense play - don't miss the moment when he mocks the headphone-wearing audience for paying so much to 'come and watch a radio drama' - and that levity makes the back half hit all the harder. (114 minutes) Babes Indie comedy about pregnancy, motherhood and friendship Year: 2024 Certificate: 15 Watch now on NOW Watch now on Sky When a one-night stand leaves her pregnant, thirtysomething Eden (Broad City's Ilana Glazer) decides to have the baby, confident that she'll always have her best friend Dawn (Michelle Buteau) to lean on. But with a new baby of her own to deal with, not to mention a hellish toddler, Dawn has problems of her own. Can their friendship survive it all? Can Eden really handle the stress of pregnancy? And just how will they cope when a sewage pipe explodes? A New York-set movie about female friendships, motherhood and pregnancy, this sparky indie comedy directed by first-time helmer Pamela Adlon (known as an actress for Better Things and Californication) delivers from start to finish. Glazer and Buteau are spiky and endearingly convincing as the BFFs suddenly finding themselves at odds with each other and watching them battle to put their relationship to rights is both charming and hilarious. (104 minutes) Devious Maids Four Latina maids navigate life working in Beverly Hills Year: 2013-2016 Certificate: 15 Watch now on Disney+ Watch now on ITVX Produced by Desperate Housewives star Eva Longoria and that show's creator Marc Cherry, Devious Maids centres around a quartet of Latina women - Ana Ortiz, Dania Ramirez, Fantasy Island's Roselyn Sanchez and Scrubs' Judy Reyes - all working as maids in wealthy households in Los Angeles. While there they have a window into the secrets and lies of their rich employers as well as having a chance to pursue some of their own agendas. Spanning everything from crime and romance to murder and showbiz ambition, Devious Maids runs for four very enjoyable series of heightened drama, occasional comedy and passionate female friendship. It's a thinner show than Desperate Housewives, but if you loved that, give this a try. (Four series) A Real Pain Jesse Eisenberg's film about Jewish cousins on a road trip Year: 2024 Certificate: 15 Watch now on Disney+ Jesse Eisenberg writes, directs and stars in this finely crafted gem of a movie about two Jewish American cousins on a tour of Poland to learn more about their late grandmother. On first impressions from the trailer, the film looks like a buddy road comedy, with Eisenberg's uptight David sparking off Kieran Culkin's free-wheeling Benji. There is a lot more going on here, though. Eisenberg was clearly determined to make a film for the ages and that's just what he's done, as these very different men come together to understand what's made them grow apart, comprehend their family and history, and finally grieve for everything that's happened. His BAFTA-winning script is a perfect mix of comedy and tragedy, which is a tricky balance to strike when it comes to any film, but particularly one that tackles the Holocaust. Intriguingly, Eisenberg was originally going to play the Benji role; but then he remembered meeting Culkin in the past and, despite never having seen him acting in anything (even Succession) cast him purely on 'his essence'. That decision certainly paid off - Culkin won an Oscar and a BAFTA as a result of it - and, long story short, this is one of those films that makes your life better. (90 minutes) The Hunt For The Zodiac Killer Experts attempt to codebreak the mystery of the infamous serial killer Year: 2017 Certificate: 12 This five-part docuseries from 2017 explores the still unsolved case of the Zodiac Killer, a serial murderer who claimed to have 37 victims in a letter sent in 1974 and who taunted the authorities with countless letters and coded ciphers, one of which he claimed contained the key to his identity. That diabolically complex cipher, named Z340, which has since been solved, baffled cryptologists for more than 50 years and for this investigation teams of experts once again try to crack it, this time with the aid of a supercomputer as well as data from files supplied by the FBI. It's fascinating to watch, but don't expect any big revelations. (Five episodes) Ultimatum (2022) Gritty action thriller about a Czech policeman facing the hostage negotiation of his life Year: 2022 Certificate: 15 This is a tough and grimy action thriller from Slovakia and Czechia, about a troubled police negotiator who stands up to political corruption as a hostage situation plays out. Dano Andrik (Jan Kolenik) is already on borrowed time when the crisis at a local hospital unfolds and, with his pregnant girlfriend among the hostages, Dano isn't about to let the concerns of his superiors stand in his way. The perpetrator, a man named Kornan (Milan Bahul), might in fact be more of a victim than a villain and it's up to Dano to unpick the facts from the lies the politicians have been spinning. (Eight episodes) Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer Documentary series investigating the hunt for the murderer of multiple young women Year: 2025 Certificate: 15 Watch now on Netflix The May 2010 disappearance of escort Shannan Gilbert eventually led to a police search along a stretch of road near Gilgo Beach in Long Island in the US. What they discovered there was shocking: the remains of multiple women, most of whom worked in the sex industry, some of whom had gone missing as far back as the 1990s. The bodies were identified as the work of a single serial killer, but it would be 13 years before anyone would be arrested for the murders - a delay that many attributed to the fact law enforcement placed a low priority on solving the deaths of a group of sex workers. This gritty three-part documentary series digs into the crimes, but is always careful to depict the victims as human beings with a life and history beyond their profession. (Three episodes) The Bondsman Kevin Bacon plays a bounty hunter who gets a second chance - hunting demons for the Devil Year: 2025 Certificate: 18 Watch now on Prime Video This is a violent and funny supernatural action show with one of the most charming and evergreen American stars in showbusiness - Kevin Bacon. The Footloose star plays a bounty hunter who winds up dead when a job goes wrong, then comes back with a new boss - the Devil. The horned one has given him a second chance on Earth hunting demons, but the moment he fails a job he'll get sent right down where the sun don't shine. Produced by American horror specialists Blumhouse and executed with a wry southern charm and a strong soundtrack, this is elevated B-movie fare through and through. Bacon's Hub Halloran takes his new job in his stride, as does his mother, who insists on accompanying him for his first job when she learns that the target is her pastor. In fact, what most troubles her is why the son she tried so hard to raise well was destined for hell in the first place and their unusual double act gives this an extra edge, along with a sideline in country music... (Eight episodes) MobLand Tom Hardy, Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan star in Guy Ritchie's gangster drama series Year: 2025 Certificate: 18 Watch now on Paramount+ With Pierce Brosnan as a merciless old-school Irish mob boss, Helen Mirren as his conniving Lady Macbeth-esque wife and Tom Hardy getting his hands bloody as their no-nonsense fixer, you'd watch this new British mobster series for the lead trio alone. The fact that it's also created (with a few episodes directed) by Snatch and The Gentlemen's Guy Ritchie and boasts a wider cast that includes House Of The Dragon's Paddy Considine, Sherlock's Lara Pulver and Downton Abbey's Joanne Froggatt turns it into pretty much essential viewing. This series offers everything you'd expect from a Guy Ritchie show, from knife-sharp dialogue to lashings of over-the-top violence, as the Harrigan family headed by Brosnan, Mirren and Hardy faces a threat to its London crime empire from a tough new upstart gang. (Ten episodes) Masters Of Sex Period drama exploring the world of 1950s sex researchers in America Year: 2013-2016 Certificate: 15 Watch now on U (UKTV) Watch now on Prime Video There's sex in the title and the subject is sex, but there will be no juvenile sniggering at the back watching this accomplished drama that spins a heavily fictionalised series out of the real-life story of American sex researchers Masters and Johnson. Like Alfred Kinsey before them in the 1940s, William H Masters and Virginia E Johnson (Michael Sheen and Lizzy Caplan) sought, in the 1950s and beyond, to apply rigorous scientific methodology to the study of sex. It was groundbreaking to observe this kind of human behaviour in laboratory settings, but laboratory sex is not the least bit sexy, and if that was all this show was about, it would get tired pretty quickly. Instead, the series focuses on Masters and Johnson themselves, on their working relationship and their family lives. (Four series) A Coronation Street spoiler has accidentally leaked online two months before airing - and it's set to change the life of a Weatherfield legend forever. Eagle-eyed visitors on the ITV studio tour spotted a 'For Sale' sign outside No. 6 Coronation Street, the long-time home of the Nazir family. A fan reportedly snapped a picture of the sign and shared it online, inadvertently leaking a huge spoiler before the episodes have even aired. The house, which has been in the Nazir family since 2013, is currently home to Alya Nazir (Sair Khan), who has been living there alone since the recent departure of her grandmother Yasmeen Nazir (Shelley King). Now, it seems Alya is making a big decision about her future - but she won't be leaving Weatherfield. A Corrie insider told The Sun: 'Alya Nazir puts it up for sale for Yasmeen - but Alya is not moving away from the street or Weatherfield.' A Coronation Street spoiler has accidentally leaked online two months before airing - and it's set to change the life of Weatherfield legend Alya Nazir (Sair Khan) forever Eagle-eyed visitors on the ITV studio tour spotted a 'For Sale' sign outside No. 6 Coronation Street, the long-time home of the Nazir family, shortly after Alya bid an emotional farewell to her grandmother Yasmeen (Shelley King) This shock twist confirms that Yasmeen's departure is permanent, and Alya is choosing to move on. Fans had speculated whether her boyfriend, Adam Barlow (Sam Robertson), might move in, but with the house now on the market, that theory has been debunked. Instead, some fans believe the house could be snapped up by Carla Connor (Alison King) and Lisa Swain (Vicky Myers), who may move in together with Lisa's daughter Betsy (Sydney Martin) and Carlas nephew Ryan Connor (Ryan Prescott). With Corrie filming eight to ten weeks in advance, this accidental leak is a major spoiler. But who will take over No. 6? MailOnline has contacted ITV for comment. Alya bid an emotional farewell to her grandmother Yasmeen in scenes that aired last month. Actress Shelley King, 69, joined the ITV soap in 2014 and was notably at the centre of a high-profile coercive control storyline. In her final scenes, Yasmeen departed Weatherfield for a new job in London. The fan reportedly snapped a picture of the sign and shared it online, inadvertently leaking a huge spoiler. This shocking twist confirms that Yasmeens departure is permanent, while Alya has decided to move on Since her exit, Alya has been partaking in Ramadan and supporting her friend DeeDee. Shes also landed a new business partner in Speed Daal, after Yasmeen sold her shares in the restaurant to Leanne Battersby before heading to London. It isn't the only house to come up for sale in recent weeks on Coronation Street. Just before the end of 2024, Yasmeen's neighbour, Gail Platt, listed her iconic house for sale as she departed Weatherfield after 50 years. There were several potential buyers, with Carla taking a keen interest. However, it was later ravaged by a huge fire caused by Max Turner, which burned the property to the ground. It comes as Coronation Street has been cancelled and pulled from screens today in a major schedule shake-up. Soap fans have been hit by several changes this year already and Weatherfield lovers are about to be disappointed again. The popular drama won't be airing in its usual slot today (Friday) and will instead be booted out by the UEFA Women's Nations League game, England vs Belgium. It comes as Coronation Street has been cancelled and pulled from screens today in a major schedule shake-up The popular drama won't be airing in its usual slot today (Friday) and will instead be booted out by the UEFA Women's Nations League game, England vs Belgium Coronation Street usually airs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for one hour from 8pm. Fans have been compensated however, and were treated to an hour-long episode on Thursday night to make up for the missing instalment. It isn't the first time the soaps have been disrupted by schedule shifts. On February 28, Coronation Street was moved again because of an FA Cup game between Aston Villa and Cardiff City. Instead, the episode was shown on the Thursday to make up for the missing trip to the cobbles. And on February 7, the soap was moved from the Friday night slot to make room for a Manchester United vs Leicester City game as part of the FA Cup. The match kicked off at 7:30pm after Emmerdale wrapped up and the schedule change meant that fans tuned in on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday instead. The end of MAFS may be on the horizon, but the drama is far from finished. For months, I've had snarky screenshots and embarrassing photos drop into my DMs, but only recently I came to be in the possession of the motherlode of leaked texts. A fiery bride using vicious language against a rival... and secretly plotting to return with said rival's on-screen husband at the cast reunion.... It's safe to say, there was a lot going on. The bride in question is Sierah Swepstone and the leaked texts lay bare her feud with Awhina Rutene, as well as her scheming with controversial groom Adrian Araouzou. And I can reveal they will be at the centre of the upcoming two-part MAFS Reunion. Leaked text messages between Sierah Swepstone (left) and Adrian Araouzou (right) show her spiralling with anxiety over whether he had revealed her attempt to organise a couple swap In a series of texts that I have verified to be genuine, Sierah spirals over fears she is about to get 'thrown under the bus' at the yet-to-air reunion dinner party, while lashing out at her former co-stars in an unhinged rant. The screenshots show Sierah anxiously asking Adrian whether he'd told anyone about her attempt to convince the show's producers to let her and Adrian return to the experiment together, as a couple. Her big fear, she reveals, is that the plot will become a flashpoint at the reunion and she'll be verbally 'attacked' by the other participants. 'Hey, just wanted to touch base and see if you'd told anyone about me saying to production about us going back together so I can prepare myself for being attacked and ganged up on again at the reunion because of you throwing me under the bus,' she wrote. Adrian replied that there was 'absolutely nothing to worry about', adding that no one would care about her off-camera dealings with the producers. But that did little to calm Sierah, who quickly descended into an expletive-laden tirade against her castmates. In an extraordinary text meltdown, Sierah branded her former friends 'nasty c***s,' claiming Awhina and Billy Belcher were out to destroy her reputation at the reunion. 'Even after I left, they will absolutely come at me with it at the dinner party,' she fumed. 'Hey, just wanted to touch base and see if you'd told anyone about me saying to production about us going back together so I can prepare myself for being attacked and ganged up on again at the reunion because of you throwing me under the bus,' Sierah wrote In an extraordinary meltdown, Sierah branded her former friends 'nasty c***s,' claiming that Billy Belcher and Awhina Rutene were out to destroy her reputation at the reunion 'Seriously I have to get it off my chest how angry I am at you for the way that I was treated when I was there.' Sierah accused her former ally Adrian of 'dogging' her and claimed everything the other brides and grooms had against her stemmed from Adrian's actions. 'When Billy and Awhina and her tacky weave lied through their teeth at the second CC [commitment ceremony], it came from you to begin with when you whispered it to Dave,' she wrote. She then unleashed on Awhina, claiming she 'kicked me while I was down' by allegedly spreading lies about her. 'I actually hate her and I hate you. Biggest regret was having anything to do with you because look at how I was treated for it and you came away unscathed,' she added. Sierah said the drama and betrayal on the show had impacted her mental health. 'You actually don't understand how much that last [dinner party] has affected my mental health and it was because you dogged me,' she told Adrian. Sierah accused 'Awhina and her tacky weave' of lying through her teeth at a commitment ceremony. (Pictured: Awhina Rutene taking a phone call during filming) Sierah continued to blame her exclusion and the breakdown of her relationships with various castmates on Adrian, with whom she had previously been friends. 'Everything everyone had a problem with me [about] revolved around the fact that I was mates with you and it often came from your mouth,' she accused. A production source told me the messages were 'deeply concerning' but not surprising given Sierah's habit of 'playing the victim one minute and then going on the attack behind the scenes'. 'She was desperate to get back on the show and fix her image but now she's burning bridges left, right and centre,' they added. The leaked texts come after it was revealed Sierah had been involved in secret meet-ups and flirtatious exchanges with Adrian, despite being married to Billy. Sierah said she 'hated' both Awhina and Adrian (pictured together), and was particularly bitter about how Adrian had emerged from their controversy 'unscathed' The leaked texts come after it was revealed Sierah had been involved in secret meet-ups and flirtatious exchanges with Adrian, despite being married to Billy Belcher The controversy exploded at one of the dinner parties when footage captured Sierah and Adrian playing footsie under the table, an act that left both Billy and Adrian's wife Awhina blindsided and humiliated. The fallout was swift, with Billy choosing to leave the experiment after feeling betrayed by his wife. Meanwhile, Awhina also expressed disappointment in Adrian's behaviour, leading to further tension within the group. Sierah tried to downplay the allegations, but the damage was done, and she ultimately decided to exit the show. NEW TO MAIL+? READ MORE MAFS EXCLUSIVES FROM ALI DAHER: Advertisement Kyle Sandilands has offered a rare glimpse into his personal life and how he is really feeling about his shock brain aneurysm diagnosis. The radio star announced the shock news about his health at the beginning of his KIIS FM breakfast show back in February. He warned listeners at the time that 'a life of cocaine abuse and partying are not the way to go'. In a no-holds-barred chat with Daily Mail Australia, Kyle said that after years of partying hard, he's now finally focusing on health and spending time with wife Tegan Kynaston and their young son Otto. He admitted the reality of the diagnosis forced him to make some major lifestyle changes. 'I've gotta have the blood pressure under control. I can't be yahooing around on the bags and staying up for three days, which obviously I haven't been doing for a few years since Otto's been born,' he said. Kyle Sandilands has offered a rare glimpse into his personal life and how he is really feeling about his shock brain aneurysm diagnosis 'And the cigarettes are no good and everything that I love is no good.' 'I've abused my body my entire life' Despite the health scare, Kyle insists he is not frightened, but more so angry. 'I'm more annoyed and a bit bored about the whole thing. But yeah, not scared,' he said. 'I've just got a little son who's about to turn three. And that was my only real concern and a young wife. And that was more concern for them than myself. 'I've never really had a lot of concern for myself. As you can tell, I've abused my body my entire life and had a fun time doing it though.' Kyle's secret way to unwind While he hasn't indulged in cocaine in a long time, Sandilands does unwind with a joint after a long day juggling his KIIS FM breakfast show and Australian Idol filming schedule. In a no-holds-barred chat with Daily Mail Australia, Kyle said that after years of partying hard, he's now finally focusing on health and his time with wife Tegan Kynaston and son Otto The 53-year-old KIIS FM breakfast host candidly spoke about his life away from the mic, revealing how welcoming son Otto in 2022 changed everything 'I usually just smoke a big joint, but yeah, I don't usually tell that many people that, but I'll tell you.' The 53-year-old KIIS FM breakfast host candidly spoke about his life away from the mic, revealing how welcoming son Otto in 2022 changed everything including his infamous party lifestyle. Slowing down Kyle explained that severity of his condition has forced him to slow down and reconsider how he lives. 'The health sh*t ... There's not much I can do. I've got the two aneurysms, one in the chest and one in the head. But they're being monitored,' he said. 'When the head one first came out, they were like, immediately needs to be dealt with, blah, blah, blah, blah. And then when they looked in there and I got all the scans, they were like, "oh, it's not that easy." 'If it was easy to deal with, a little coil or a clip, it's two different procedures. They would've done it immediately, but because it's attached to many different blood vessels, I actually have an 18% chance of a stroke just having the procedure. 'They wanted to wait cause they said I might have had it for 30 years or five months. So they wanted to see if it grows over six months to 12 months.' Kyle explained the severity of his condition, which forced him to slow down and reconsider how he lives 'A change of perception about love' Reflecting on fatherhood, Kyle said becoming a dad changed his outlook on life. Reflecting on fatherhood, Kyle revealed how becoming a dad changed his outlook 'A change of perception about what I thought love is and you hear everyone, "oh, you don't know love until you've had a child." And I just think, "you don't know love until you've had three or four hotties in the bed together,"' he joked. 'That's what I used to think. But until you have that kid, I was like, "oh sh*t, they're right." Like it's a different and unconditional you would die for that person.' He also praised Tegan's hands-on parenting style. 'She's a great mum. Even my mum was over the other day at our place and she goes, "Tegan's so hands on with him. She's on the ground." She's doing this relentless for hours and hours, playing, running, painting, just nonstop like a kindergarten teacher. 'Mum said, "I wasn't anything like that with you." And I said, "Is that right? So what?" She goes, "oh, I didn't even think you knew colours until year one." Because Otto knows colours and words and all this, and I was like, how neglectful were parents in the 1970s?' While he hasn't indulged in cocaine in a long time, Sandilands does unwind with a joint after a long day juggling his KIIS FM breakfast show and Australian Idol filming schedule The truth about Australian Idol and MAFS rivalry The radio veteran, who returned to TV as a judge on Australian Idol, confirmed he's already locked in for next year's season and he's had a huge say over who joins him on the panel. 'They've already booked in the dates for next year,' he revealed. 'So Marcia [Hines] says to me on the desk, "Did they tell you about the new dates?" And I went, "of course, they f**king told me about the new dates a month ago."' When it comes to the judging lineup, Kyle didn't hold back. 'Yeah, of course. Where's Harry Connick, Jr? Not here. Amy [Shark]'s here now. 'Marcia's here now,' he said. 'When we put this together Channel Seven CEO Jeff Howard came and met me. We had lunch and I knew that he was like romancing me to come back to TV, but I was done with TV. Then he said, "I want you to come back to TV." And I said, "I'm not really interested." And he said, "what if we bring back Idol?" And I said, "oh. Very interested only in Idol."' Kyle said the original judging panel nearly looked very different. The radio veteran, who returned to TV as a judge on Australian Idol, confirmed he's already locked in for next year's season and he's had a huge say over who joins him on the panel (Pictured alongside Marcia Hines and Amy Shark) The controversial host also addressed Australian Idol's ratings battle with Channel Nine's Married At First Sight and why he's not been talking about MAFS on The Kyle & Jackie O Show Kyle also took aim at the media's obsession with radio ratings after KISS FM's recent Melbourne numbers 'It was gonna be me, Amy Shark, Meghan Trainor and Snoop Dogg. But Snoop was having some visa issues, then we nearly got 50 Cent, but he's got film companies and stuff now so we couldn't marry up the time.' The controversial host also addressed Australian Idol's ratings battle with Channel Nine's Married At First Sight and why he's not been talking about the Channel Nine show on The Kyle & Jackie O Show. 'We talked about MAFS probably five years ago. I'm just not as into it. I know it's still quite popular. Still though it [always] wins the night,' he admitted. 'I even brought it up with Channel Seven. I was like, "why would you put it up against Channel Nine's biggest show?" And they said, "We're not gonna just surrender and put episodes of Gilligan's Island on we still need to have a sexy current cool product for their advertisers." 'A lot of people don't want to advertise in MAFS because of the style of content of show.' On ratings, rival networks and future plans Kyle also took aim at the media's obsession with radio ratings after KIIS FM's recent Melbourne numbers. 'I didn't celebrate it. I thought it was f**ked,' he said bluntly. Kyle insisted he doesn't let competition get in the way of friendship revealing he'll be catching up with former colleague Jason Hawkins (pictured with co-host Lauren Phillips) over dinner next week 'This is what people don't really understand about ratings. It's out of the five and a half million people in Melbourne, only 18,000 have even been asked to fill in a diary.' He also slammed reports he and co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson's rumoured salary increase was responsible for presenter Mitch Churi's departure. 'I had nothing to do with Mitch got fired. His little insider from what I've heard, and I dunno if it's completely true, but it probably is, it was just [his] negotiation style didn't work.' Looking to the future, Kyle admitted he'd like to expand into Brisbane but isn't in any rush. 'I've made my intentions clear that I do want Brisbane as well, but while Brisbane still does well, they went down a little bit, but there's still got healthy numbers.' When it comes to rival presenters, Kyle insisted he doesn't let competition get in the way of friendship revealing he'll be catching up with former colleague Jason Hawkins over dinner next week. 'I found him when he was like a 16-year-old kid. He used to be my little bitch at Triple M in Brisbane,' he joked. Swimsuit model Devon Windsor was seen posing in a stylish black bikini from her the summer collection of her swimwear line. The 31-year-old star from St Louis, Missouri displayed her lean size zero figure with her toned tummy as she posed for photos shared to Instagram. The former Victoria's Secret pinup - who is an impressive 5ft11in - was photographed on a yacht. Her husband of six years, model Johnny Dex Barbara, was seen caressing her bottom in a very cheeky image when she hugged him. Devon launched her popular self-named brand four years ago and has been modeling the collections ever since in Miami and the Bahamas. Swimsuit model Devon Windsor was seen posing in stylish bikini from her the summer collection of her stunning swimwear line. The 31-year-old star from St Louis, Missouri displayed her lean size zero figure with her toned tummy The former Victoria's Secret pinup was on a yacht. Her husband Johnny Dex Barbara was seen caressing her bottom in a very cheeky image when she hugged him Devon appears to be at her thinnest in years after welcoming two daughters with husband Johnny. In 2021 she gave birth to their first child, Enzo Elodie Barbara, and in May 2023 she welcomed their second daughter, Celine Blue Barbara. Devon has been a model for over a decade and has been in the swimsuit-making business for the last four years. In 2019 she launched Devon Windsor Swim, an affordable swimwear line which also captures her personal style. 'I am super excited to announce that I am launching Devon Windsor Swim this summer !!! I have been working for the past year on this project and cannot wait to see you guys wearing it!' she announced on social media at the time. Speaking with V Magazine about starting up the collection, she said: 'Being in the fashion industry, I was always interested in expanding my brand outside of just modeling. 'I loved the aspect of design and the creativity and freedom in being able to have your own line. Swimsuits have always been a passion of mine because I love the oceanit is where I feel most at home. Earlier this week she was seen in a pale pink suit with thin straps 'Over the past couple of years, I have noticed a gap in the market for a swimsuit that is more than your average basic bikini, without breaking your bank. 'For me, swimwear is a strong form of self-expression and something that you should feel confident and powerful in. With this in mind, I decided to create an affordable line of statement swimsuitsDevon Windsor.' As far as what makes her collection standout in the marketplace, she said: 'I wanted this line to be a reflection of my personal style, while also being a collection and brand that everyone could find something they love. 'I also wanted the collection to be affordable, and something that carries a lot of design details. 'The range offers a large variety of versatile silhouettes, colors, patterns, textures and hardwareall with an immense amount of detail that went into selecting each. Devon launched her popular self-named brand four years ago and has been modeling the collections ever since in Miami and the Bahamas 'I feel like the versatility of each piece and huge attention to detail that I put into each aspect of every design is what sets this line apart from others.' Outside of the corporate world, Devon is a busy mother of two. She shares daughters Enzo Elodie Barbara, two, and Celine Blue Barbara, six months, with her husband Jonathan. Devon married her businessman beau in a beachside St. Barts ceremony in 2019. Discovered at the age of 14, Devon has been a professional model ever since. Celebrities on Trial, a brand-new two part podcast from the Mail is launching today. It's the latest release from The Trial Plus, the home of brilliant bonus episodes from smash-hit podcast The Trial, which covers all of the biggest global cases everyone's talking about, both current and historical. Presented by some familiar faces to regular listeners of The Trial, Caroline Cheetham, host of The Trial of Lucy Letby and Kayla Brantley, The Trial of Diddy host - the series kicks off one year before Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni are expected to go to court. In two special bonus episodes released today, Caroline and Kayla are chatting about key moments in this story so far, as well as other recent celebrity cases, including the now-infamous 2020 Depp v. Heard case. In the episode on the Lively v. Baldoni case, theyll be joined by special guests, including the Daily Mail's James Vituscka, responsible for breaking numerous stories on the case, and Lisa Bloom, an Attorney currently representing Diddy accusers, to break down all the legal intricacies of this battle. Blake Lively and her It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni are now locked in a legal battle. Listen to The Trial hosts break down the case so far on Celebrities on Trial by clicking here. Media Trainer and Crisis Manager Simon Brooke also gives us insight into exactly what a crisis manager does, and how they might be influencing this story. In another episode, we're looking back at Johnny Depp v Amber Heard, speaking to the International media lawyer Mark Stephens to find out exactly why the trials had different results between countries. Well also hear from Mark Borkowski about other PR disasters when celebs have been facing the heat. To listen, go to The Crime Desk now and subscribe for your 7-day free trial. The Crime Desk: The Mail's new true crime podcast network, available on all major podcast platforms. Join here for a 7-day free trial. More about The Trial The Trial goes behind the headlines of some of the biggest trials in the world. The series has had more than 40 million downloads, and is one of the UK's most popular true crime podcasts. We take you into the courtroom, bringing you the detail as the evidence unfolds, examining key moments and carrying out exclusive interviews with detectives, victims, and experts. The Crime Desk subscribers also get exclusive, full access to our extensive archive of more than 200 episodes, from the Trial of Diddy, to the original Lucy Letby trial to the Holly Willoughby plot - all ad-free. Subscribe to The Crime Desk, the Mail's brand-new true crime podcast network, for a free 7-day trial - after which it costs just 1.99 a month or 19.99 a year. Advertisement Laurence Fishburne revealed that he was more than willing to appear in the fourth installment of the Matrix franchise. He was asked if he'd ever consider returning to franchise as his character Morpheus from the original trilogy, after his absence from 2021's The Matrix Resurrections. 'It depends on the circumstances who is involved, how well the script has been written, if they offer me,' Fishburne, 63, said, with some doubt that would happen. 'Cause, you know, I offered my services to the fourth Matrix, and they didn't respond well,' he added during an appearance on The View to promote his new film Amateur. 'So hey, it's not like I didn't say, "Oh, I'd like to offer my services." I did. 'And for whatever reason, that didn't happen. Okay. But that's the truth,' he added. 'So we'll see.' Laurence Fishburne revealed that he was more than willing to appear in the fourth installment of the Matrix franchise. He was asked if he'd ever consider returning to franchise as his character Morpheus from the original trilogy, after his absence from 2021's The Matrix Resurrections. Seen here April 2, 2025 Fishburne previously talked about not being cast in Resurrection in 2020 with Vulture, saying he had 'not been invited' to reprise the role of Morpheus. 'Maybe that will make me write another play. I wish them well. I hope it's great,' he added. After seeing the movie, Variety asked him in October 2022 if he felt he'd missed out by not being in the film. 'Not really,' he said, before heaping praise on his co-stars Keanu Reeves, 60, and Carrie-Ann Moss, 57. 'But I thought Carrie-Anne and Keanu really did their thing,' the actor said. He also said that the movie 'wasn't as bad as I thought it would be,' though he admitted, 'And it wasn't as good as I hoped it would be.' By the time of the setting of The Matrix Resurrection, Morpheus is long dead and Neo and Trinity interact with an AI-version of him. The first three Matrix films were directed by Lana and Lilly Wachowski while the fourth was helmed solely by Lana. 'It depends on the circumstances who is involved, how well the script has been written, if they offer me,' Fishburne, 63, said, with some doubt that would happen 'Cause, you know, I offered my services to the fourth Matrix, and they didn't respond well,' he added during an appearance on The View to promote his new film Amateur. Seen here in 2025 'So hey, it's not like I didn't say, "Oh, I'd like to offer my services." I did' Fishburne is currently promoting the action-espionage drama The Amateur, starring Rami Malek as Charlie Heller, a CIA analyst who is on a vengeance mission after his wife is killed in a terrorist attack. Fishburne plays Henderson, a retired colonel specializing in training field agents who come into Hellers orbit. The film hits theaters on April 11th and also stars Rachel Brosnahan, Jon Bernthal and Caitriona Balfe. Laurence reflected on his most iconic acting roles for the Los Angeles Times. Of The Matrix trilogy, he said, 'Another life-changing experience. Im so proud to have been a part of that, one of the culturally impactful films of the last century. He went on to talk about how culturally relevant the films are even today, 26 years after the first Matrix film debuted. 'I had no idea it would become so iconic. But I did know it was the most original thing I had ever read. I had never come across anything like it. 'Its so ingrained in the public psyche everyone is always talking about Im going down the rabbit hole or red pill, blue pill. 'And for whatever reason, that didn't happen. Okay. But that's the truth,' he added. 'So we'll see.' Seen here on April 3, 2025 'It also borrowed from the Chinese school of action movies, advancing and improving the American school of action work. 'Since we made that movie, the idea that you can exist in different worlds is now a staple of moviemaking. 'Everything Everywhere All at Once is the best version of that,' he said. Tom Cruise was seen at the Colosseum at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas for CinemaCon 2025 on Thursday. The 62-year-old veteran action star looked better than he has in a long time. The ex-husband of Nicole Kidman appeared 10 years younger as he wore an all-black outfit. DailyMail.com has asked a plastic surgeon to weigh in on what he had done. 'It does not look like he has had any plastic surgery,' Dr Kahn told DailyMail.com. 'Rather it appears as if he has lost a lot of weight, like he cut out carbs or alcohol to slim down for the spring. 'Before he was a bit puffy but that is gone now.' There is one think Dr Kahn thinks the Mission: Impossible icon may have done: Microdermabrasion. 'It's a simple procedure that yields great results,' he said. Microdermabrasion (MDA) is a minimally invasive epidermal resurfacing procedure used to treat uneven skin tone/texture, photoaging, striae, melasma, and scars, including acne scars. It is one of the most common nonsurgical cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. Cruise also seems to have a new hairstyle with longer locks and bangs for a youthful glow. Tom Cruise was seen at the Colosseum at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas for CinemaCon 2025 on Thursday The 62-year-old veteran action star looked better than he has in a long time. The ex-husband of Nicole Kidman appeared 10 years younger as he wore an all-black outfit. DailyMail.com has asked a plastic surgeon to weigh in on what he had done Cruise speaks onstage during the 84th Annual Academy Awards held at the Hollywood & Highland Center in 2012 in Hollywood In the past DailyMail.com has reported that Cruise may had gotten fillers in his face like Botox to freeze his facial muscles. It was a big day for Tom at ComiCon. He also paid an emotional tribute to his Top Gun co-star Val Kilmer after his shock death aged 65 this week. Cruise played Captain Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell alongside Kilmer's Tom 'Iceman' Kazansky in the 1986 classic, with the pair reuniting onscreen for 2022's Top Gun: Maverick. Taking to the stage, Cruise said per Variety: 'I'd like to honor a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer. 'I can't tell you how much I admire his work, how grateful and honored I was when he joined Top Gun and came back later for Top Gun: Maverick. 'I think it would be really nice if we could have a moment together because he loved movies and he gave a lot to all of us. Just kind of think about all the wonderful times that we had with him. 'I wish you well on the next journey.' Cruise put his head down as he held his hands together while on stage at CinemaCon 2025 held at The Colosseum. The action star was the event to talk up his next film, Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning, which will open on May 23. Tom had said in 2022 that he was very pleased the Kilmer joined him on Top Gun: Maverick. 'I just want to say that was pretty emotional. Ive known Val for decades,' Cruise said while on Jimmy Kimmel Live. 'For him to come back and play that character hes such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again. Youre looking at Iceman.' 'It does not look like he has had any plastic surgery,' Dr Kahn told DailyMail.com 'Rather it appears as if he has lost a lot of weight, like he cut out carbs or alcohol . 'Before he was a bit puffy but that is gone now.' He also seems to have a new hairstyle with longer locks and bangs for a youthful glow Cruise, 62, played Captain Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell alongside Kilmer's Tom 'Iceman' Kazansky in the 1986 classic The pair reunited onscreen for 2022's Top Gun: Maverick The movie's producer, Jerry Bruckheimer, told People in 2021 that Cruise 'was the driving force' in getting Kilmer to work on the film. Val, who rose to fame in the 1980s with roles in films such as Batman Forever and The Doors, died from complications related to pneumonia after a long battle with health issues. Val, who was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, spent the later years of his life largely out of the public eye. Val is survived by his daughter Mercedes and son Jack, whom he had during his marriage to actress Joanne Whalley. His passing was announced by Mercedes on Tuesday. Val, who was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, spent the later years of his life largely out of the public eye. Seen in 2019 Cameron Daddo has a new lease on life after a harrowing brush with death. The Australian actor, 60, has revealed the chilling moment doctors told him a CT scan for a 'tummy issue' had unearthed three hidden aneurysms that would have otherwise only been discovered 'post-mortem'. The beloved television star, who has been married to model Alison Brahe for a staggering 33 years, now has a whole new perspective on his recent milestone birthday. Daddo, who recently turned 60, initially sought medical attention for what he believed was a simple parasite-related 'tummy issue'. Little did he know, the routine scan would uncover a ticking time bomb within his body. 'Sobering words when delivered by your specialist,' Daddo told The Daily Telegraph, recounting the moment doctors delivered the shocking news. Cameron Daddo has a new lease on life after a harrowing brush with death The Australian actor, 60, has revealed the chilling moment doctors told him his 'tummy issue' CT scan had unearthed three hidden aneurysms that would have otherwise only been discovered 'post-mortem'. Pictured with his wife Alison Brahe 'They told me if they hadn't found them when they did, they would have only been found post-mortem.' In February, Daddo underwent a complex surgery to insert stents, designed to improve blood flow from his heart to his legs. What was initially planned as a three-stent procedure quickly escalated into a ten stent ordeal, leaving the actor fighting for his life in intensive care for several days. 'There was a scare last year and I mean classic timing,' Daddo revealed. 'It was detected by accident.' The beloved actor explained that his femoral arteries were riddled with several aneurysms, discovered only during a CT scan for an unrelated 'tummy issue'. Cameron Daddo marked his 60th birthday with a road trip from Adelaide to the Barossa to Kangaroo Island in March Cameron and his wife Alison, who share three now adult children together, have been married for 33 years This tummy issue was caused by ingesting contaminated beach water, leading to a parasite infection. 'There was no reason for me to go to the doctor other than I had a sore belly but that was because I had a parasite because I ingested dirty water at the beach,' he said. 'The GP, bless him, he picked it up, sent me to a specialist. The specialist said "You have to get these aneurisms taken care of because theres a good chance you may not make it through next year."' Cameron and his wife Alison, who share three now adult children together, have been married for 33 years. The host of Luxury Escapes is a prolific actor known for his starring roles in films and TV series like Inland Empire, Home and Away, Hope Island, and NCIS: Los Angeles. But in 1990, Daddo, despite being 'well on [his] way to enjoying' that long career, was starstruck by his future wife. 'At the time, it felt like Ali was omnipresent as the cover girl queen of Dolly, Cleo and Cosmo magazines,' he writes in the book. 'It seemed liked every newsagent had a poster out the front with her megawatt smile and sparkling eyes. A magazine photographer asked Daddo if he'd met her and arranged their eventual meeting in a nightclub. 'I was instantly struck by her sparkling aura; she confessed shed had couple of vodka tonics. We chatted for an hour and I promised to call her the next day which I did. I dont think we spent many days apart after that,' he recalls. 'After almost 33 years of marriage, I am so grateful and fortunate to walk with Ali. I wouldnt trade it for anything. And her laugh is still one of the most pleasing things I know.' Married At First Sight star Martha Kalifatidis endured a sleepless night after arriving in New York City on Thursday afternoon from Melbourne. The 36-year-old said she 'survived 27 hours of travel' and arrived at her hotel in Manhattan, only to discover that US transport security administration (TSA) had locked her out of her luggage. Martha explained her predicament in the captions of several photos and videos shared to her Instagram Stories. 'TSA locked my bag. Fun because finding a locksmith at 1am is fun fun fun!' she wrote sarcastically. In a black-and-white selfie taken from her hotel room bed, the reality TV star pouted for her camera beside her large travel bag marked 'heavy'. The next photo showed TSA had broken open the lock on Martha's suitcase to inspect her bag and then re-sealed the damaged zipper with a temporary lock device. Married At First Sight star Martha Kalifatidis endured a sleepless night after arriving in New York City on Thursday afternoon from Melbourne The 36-year-old said she 'survived 27 hours of travel' and arrived at her hotel in Manhattan, only to discover that TSA had locked her out of her luggage Martha explained her predicament in the captions of several photos and videos shared to her Instagram Stories. TSA had broken open the lock on Martha's suitcase to inspect her bag and then re-sealed the damaged zipper with a temporary lock device 'Never used this lock in my life but now I am an expert at how to break one open. Tutorial coming soon,' she captioned the photo. She also shared a photo of the notice of baggage inspection ticket that she received. '@TSA Thank you for leaving this very kind note,' Martha added. It read: 'If the TSA officer was unable to open your bag for inspection because it was locked, the officer may have been forced to break the locks on your bag. 'TSA sincerely regrets having to do this, however TSA is not liable for damage to your locks from this necessary security precaution.' The special tool used by TSA agents to open locks is not available to the general public. The TSA screens every passengers baggage before it is placed on the plane. At their discretion, they can choose to open a passengers luggage for closer inspection. Martha received the TSA's standard notice of baggage inspection ticket On her return to the hotel bed, she FaceTimed her fiance Michael Brunelli, 33, and their two-year-old son, Lucius When this occurs, if the luggage is fitted with any lock other than those approved by the TSA (marked with a Red Diamond logo), they will destroy whatever lock is fitted to gain access. TSA security screeners have a master key that can open any TSA-approved lockwhether its a combination or a padlock-style lockso that agents can examine the contents of your suitcase. But it appears Martha did not read up on travel guides for the US before her trip. After calling an emergency locksmith to open her bags in the middle of the night, and doubtless paying a pretty penny for the service, the brunette trekked down to a local diner in her tracksuit. She ordered several plates of salad, bread, and fries, washed down with sparking water. 'Naturally, I ate my feelings,' Martha captioned the photo of her spread. She also couldn't resist taking a cheeky jab at her home city at the same time. 'It's always nice to be in a city where the kitchen doesn't close at 9pm.' After calling an emergency locksmith to open her bags in the middle of the night, and doubtless paying a pretty penny for the service, the brunette trekked down to a local diner Looking much brighter this morning, Martha dressed in an oversized black denim jacket and jeans combo by Acne Studios in her small hotel bathroom On her return to the hotel bed, she FaceTimed her fiance Michael Brunelli, 33, and their two-year-old son, Lucius. The make up artist has been engaged to Michael for three years since they met on Married At First Sight. 'Did I get any sleep? Nup. But I did take advantage of being kid free and doing my hair and make up this morning,' she captioned further updates posted on Friday. Looking much brighter in the morning, Martha dressed in an oversized black denim jacket and jeans combo by Acne Studios in her small hotel bathroom. Her first order of business was paying a visit to La Colombe Coffee Workshop, makers of the world's first-ever textured ice latte. 'On my way to get myself 30 litres of coffee immediately,' she said. 'The most divine liquid I have ever consumed. Cold frothy milk hits. Why are we living in medieval times in Australia? Give us cold frothy milk on tap.' Apex Predator (Hampstead Theatre, London) Rating: It's a horror show at the Hampstead Theatre. John Donnellys muddled new play, ostensibly the tale of a young mother suffering from severe post-natal depression, turns into a one-woman, blood-sucking revenge mission against toxic masculinity. How did it all go wrong? Well, after discovering her ten-year-old sons primary school teacher is a 200-year old vampire, our formerly miserable mum becomes the apex predator of the title in a mirthless, Hammer horror rerun of Killing Eve. Despite some snappy dialogue, Donnellys sketchy characters give the actors little to go on. Sophie Melville is a powerhouse performer with not much more to do than look confused and jiggle her newborn baby doll, as if out horse-riding. Bryan Dick has the most advanced sense of self as her bewildered husband with a secret job in the Met Police. And former Love Island presenter Laura Whitmore is a suspiciously glamorous primary school teacher who turns out to be a human mosquito. Awkwardly staged on Tom Pipers design of a bland white kitchen marooned in a black void surrounded by scaffolding, Blanche McIntyres production fails to spook us with uncertainty about whats real and whats not. Just about anything can and does happen. And, most dismally, the fourth cast member, Leander Deeny, is hung out to dry in a series of nasty misogynistic stereotypes some of which he tries to salvage as comedy. Yes the title sounds promising, but the play itself is as bloodless as its victims. 'John Donnellys muddled new play, ostensibly the tale of a young mother suffering from severe post-natal depression, turns into a one-woman, blood-sucking revenge mission against toxic masculinity', writes Patrick Marmion (Press photos of Apex Predator) Apex Predator production photos taken on March 22 2025 at Hampstead Theatre London Rhinoceros (Almeida Theatre, London) Rating: Played fast and furious, Ionescos absurdist 1959 totalitarian satire about the inhabitants of a French town turning into rhinos (symbolising the abolition of individual freedom and surrender to the herd instinct) might be a beast worth reviving. Alas, adaptor and director Omar Elerians attempt does not convince. Eager to underline the artifice of theatre, he has created a compere (Paul Hunter introduces himself a provocateur) to warm up the audience. On a space resembling a rehearsal room, actors in white coats and clownish hairdos follow his stage directions, carving out the unseen set. He introduces the locals. One cant find an invisible door. Another is out of time with the homemade sound effects. Another is a lady with a cat. Actually, she is cradling a large watermelon. When, bafflingly, rhinos rampage through the town, the cat is squashed; the watermelon splitting to reveal its blood-red flesh. Its all mildly diverting physical comedy, well-drilled certainly, but less than witty and anything but menacing. At the interval, kazoos are issued to some members of the audience as well as the cast. In the second half, their bathetic sounds suggest the roar of rhinos, with the provocateur now functioning as their conductor. Meanwhile, on stage, Jean (Joshua McGuire) is in agony because a rhino horn is pushing its way through his head. On a space resembling a rehearsal room, actors in white coats and clownish hairdos follow his stage directions, carving out the unseen set 'Its all mildly diverting physical comedy, well-drilled certainly, but less than witty and anything but menacing', writes Patrick Marmion The process completed, Jean cuts a ridiculous figure in a shiny grey body-stocking with a silly little tail. His neighbours are starting to follow suit (quite literally, in grey trousers). They stomp about, kazooing madly. Mercifully, by now the stage directions have stopped and some real acting begins at last largely thanks to downbeat Berenger (excellent Sope Dirisu, of Gangs Of London), who has always refused to conform, wearing his own clothes, drinking too much. BY GEORGINA BROWN Meghan McCain has delivered a scathing takedown of The White Lotus star Carrie Coon as their online spat over politics turns nasty. The right wing media personality took another jab at the actress despite Coon appearing to take the high road in her recent comments. The drama ignited over a now viral scene from the hit show when Leslie Bibb's character Kate told her Democrat childhood friends - Coon as Laurie, and Michelle Monaghan as Jaclyn - that she is a MAGA supporter. The awkward interaction captured hilarious facials from both Coon and Monaghan as they processed the information. Coon acknowledged the recent back and forth she and McCain have been having since the episode aired on Wednesday. She said she understood why people like McCain would have felt 'gratified' by a scene discussing one character's support for the MAGA movement. 'I do think people like Meghan McCain and her community are really gratified to see a conservative person on television,' Coon said earlier this week. But the comment struck a nerve, sparking a furious response from McCain who said on Thursday: 'Yes Carrie, I am "gratified" that the conservative character represented on White Lotus is the responsible, family oriented one not making a fool of herself. 'Unlike the progressive liberal you're representing who is sleeping with hotel staff and showing her t**s to everyone.' In the show, Coon's character Laurie is a progressive lawyer from New York who has a fling with a younger man she met through a staff member at the resort The right wing media personality took another jab at Coon after the actress appeared to take the high road when she explained why people like McCain would have felt 'gratified' by a scene discussing one character's support for the MAGA movement In the show, Coon's character Laurie is a progressive lawyer from New York who has a fling with a younger man she met through a staff member at the resort. After a night of wild drinking and partying, Laurie flashes her chest to the group while in the pool. The online saga between the two women began when Coon reshared a post McCain had made on X, alongside a cryptic message to her followers. McCain had shared that she was moved to tears by Trump's joint address to congress in early March, writing: 'This is the first time I can remember crying during a state of the union. 'Thank you President Trump. This is so beautiful. Anyone who has been impacted by brain cancer knows how special this is,' she added, referring to a touching moment when brain cancer survivor Devarjaye 'DJ' Daniel was made an honorary secret service agent. McCain's father, the late senator John McCain, tragically died from brain cancer in 2018. A day later on March 5, Coon replied with a mysterious message, writing: 'Who's gonna tell her?' Coon appeared to be referencing cuts the Trump administration had made to cancer research, a point ultimately addressed by McCain in a subsequent X post. The comment struck a nerve, sparking a furious response from McCain who wrote: 'Yes Carrie, I am "gratified" that the conservative character represented on White Lotus is the responsible, family oriented one not making a fool of herself After a night of wild drinking and partying, Laurie flashes her chest to the group while in the pool Coon's character on the show was involved in one of the most viral scenes, in which three childhood friends began discussing politics over a bottle of wine and one of the women revealed she was a MAGA supporter. Pictured: Her initial reaction to the revelation But two days later, McCain hit back by sharing the smirking photo of Coon's colleague Bibb, who plays Trump-supporting Kate. McCain then said she couldn't 'decide if I should still watch tonight since one of the stars decided to tweet some nasty crap at me.' Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter ahead of the HBO show's season finale on Sunday, Coon said: 'I have conservative people in my life who reached out to me to say that was an awesome conversation, because I don't think it vilifies Kate.' Bibb said she found the Trump scene 'amazing', praising show creator Mike White for his 'uncanny ability to instantly be part of the zeitgeist.' The scene was actually written in 2022 - long before Trump was reelected to the White House. 'They were supposed to shoot this season in 2023. Then the writers strike happened,' Bibb revealed. The delay sparked concerns among cast and crew that it would have felt 'dated' by the time the show went to air. And White actually chose to dial it back, leaving more of the Trump dialogue on the cutting room floor. 'There was more to that conversation,' Coon revealed. McCain contemplated boycotting the show after Coon called her out on X in response to a post showing support for Trump McCain hit back by sharing the smirking photo of Coon's colleague Leslie Bibb, who plays Trump-supporting Kate, after breaking the news of her allegience to her friends in the scene 'Originally, you discovered that Laurie's daughter is nonbinary and Laurie is struggling with her teenager going by 'they/them.' 'The Trump thing becomes much more offensive to Laurie because of her daughter, but this was before Trump was reelected and before this war on the trans community was escalated. 'Mike felt that it was actually too political, or too far, or too distracting.' White said the scene felt right back in March of 2024, but by the time it came to making the final cuts, there had been 'a vibe shift.' 'I don't think that it was radical, but that's not the kind of attention I want. The politics of it could overwhelm whatever ideas I'm trying to talk about.' While McCain is still at odds with Coon, she did also express disappointment in the Trump administration's handling of cancer research this week. The six-month continuing resolution, which was passed by both houses of Congress and signed by the president last month, includes major cuts to research into the cancer that killed her father, the late Sen. John McCain. McCain said that the National Institutes of Health had tried to treat her father for the incurable cancer, and have developed a laser-focused Glioblastoma treatment to reduce the size of tumors, which she called 'nothing short of a miracle.' Federal funds to research further treatments are now at risk under the spending bill, as it would cut funds for the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program - which finances various cancer research programs through the NIH. 'My fellow Republicans - this is wrong,' Meghan McCain posted on X Tuesday before quickly deleting it. 'I am absolutely heartbroken at the news the funding for brain cancer research has been completely cut from NIH,' she continued, noting 'my father and millions of others have been treated there for Glioblastoma and other brain cancers with miracle doctors and nurses. Those of us who are part of the brain cancer community are mourning today.' Justin Baldoni issued a scathing response to Blake Lively and husband Ryan Reynolds after the couple filed to dismiss his $400 million defamation lawsuit against them. Baldoni has been locked in a bitter legal war with Lively and Reynolds since December 2024 after the actress accused him of sexual harassment on set of their It Ends With Us. Lively co-starred in the film alongside Baldoni, who also directed and produced the domestic violence drama under his Wayfarer Studios banner. She went on to file a lawsuit against Baldoni, who she also accused of orchestrating a 'retaliation campaign,' and he responded by suing Lively, Reynolds and Lively's publicist Leslie Sloane for defamation. Baldoni also launched a $250 million libel lawsuit against the New York Times for its reporting on Lively's allegations. All parties have denied the allegations against them. Last month, Lively, Reynolds and Sloane filed to dismiss Baldoni's 'vengeful and rambling' $400 million lawsuit. In a fiery statement, Reynolds slammed Baldoni as 'thin-skinned' while describing himself as a 'supportive spouse' to Lively. And on Tuesday, April 1, the legal team representing Baldoni and the Wayfarer Studios parties called Reynolds Lively's 'co-conspirator' as they asked Judge Lewis J. Liman to deny both the Deadpool star and his wife's dismissal request. Justin Baldoni issued a scathing response to Blake Lively and husband Ryan Reynolds after the couple filed to dismiss his $400 million defamation lawsuit against them; Baldoni seen in 2024 Baldoni has been locked in a bitter legal war with Lively and Reynolds since December 2024 after the actress accused him of sexual harassment on set of their film It Ends With Us According to PEOPLE, Baldoni's lawyers claim in the legal docs that Reynolds 'pretends that the Wayfarer Parties' First Amended Complaint (the 'FAC') fails to set forth any basis for his liability and that he merely acted as a supportive spouse. Not so. The FAC specifically alleges ample facts to support the Wayfarer Parties' claims against him, based on both his direct actions and his liability as a co-conspirator.' They've also suggested that Reynolds should not be able to recover attorneys fees from Baldoni in the 'extremely unlikely event' that he is dismissed from the lawsuit. This comes after Lively's attorneys stated in her March 20 dismissal filing that Wayfarer's legal efforts against her could end up costing Baldoni's team $100 million. In an April 3 statement to DailyMail.com, a spokesperson for Reynolds responded to Baldoni's latest legal move. The spokesperson claimed that Baldoni and the Wayfarer Studios parties 'finally realize the plain defects in their complaint,' while calling the lawsuit 'frivolous.' They also told DailyMail.com that Reynolds will continue to standby his wife while reiterating Lively's harassment and retaliation allegations. 'They once again claim defamation without alleging who was defamed, what specifically was said, or how anyone suffered actual harm. 'Unlike Mr. Baldoni, who built his brand pretending to be a man who is 'confident enough to listen' to the women in his life, Ryan Reynolds actually is that man and he will continue to support his wife as she stands up to the individuals who not only harassed her but then have retaliated against her. 'Under New York law, California law, and indeed in every jurisdiction of the United States this lawsuit not only fails but may result in the Wayfarer Parties covering Ryan's costs and attorneys' fees for bringing such a frivolous case in the first place,' the statement concluded. Baldoni's response to Lively's dismissal filing was obtained by TMZ. According to court docs obtained by the outlet on Thursday, Baldoni provided the judge with reasons as to why the Gossip Girl's attempt to toss out his lawsuit should be denied. Baldoni accused Lively of being the mastermind behind an elaborate smear campaign, which he claimed was 'designed to ruin the reputations and careers of the Wayfarer parties.' Baldoni claimed claims 'there is sufficient evidence that [Lively] took a responsible part in publishing each of the allegedly defamatory statements by approving or authorizing them prior to publication.' He also alleged that Lively 'told the NYT a false and damning story about an insidious PR sabotage operation deployed as revenge for sexual harassment complaints, with the knowledge and intent that the newspaper would publish that false story.' He continued to insist that Lively acted out of malice and accused her of actively trying to destroy his Hollywood career. Last month, Lively and Reynolds filed to dismiss Baldoni's 'vengeful and rambling' $400 million defamation lawsuit; Reynolds and Lively seen in February 2025 And on Tuesday, April 1, the legal team representing Baldoni and the Wayfarer Studios parties branded Reynolds a 'co-conspirator' as they asked Judge Lewis J. Liman to deny the Deadpool star's dismissal request; Baldoni seen in August 2024 Baldoni's attorney Bryan Freedman also issued a fiery statement to TMZ, where he referred to Lively as part of the 'Hollywood elite' and accused her of attempting to set a 'dangerous precedent' by trying to get Baldoni's lawsuit thrown out. 'Ms. Lively and her circle of Hollywood elites cannot prevent my clients from exercising their constitutional right to petition the court to clear their names from her false and harmful claims,' Freedman began. 'What Ms. Lively is attempting to do is to set a dangerous precedent by barring the courthouse doors to my clients and punishing them for having their day in court, a right protected by the First Amendment. This right protects not only Mr. Baldoni and the Wayfarer parties in this particular case, but all Americans in the future who have false accusations levied against them and seek relief from our justice system. 'This must stop here, and we will continue to fight against this blatant attempt to block access to the court system and to weaken our nations Constitution to serve those who are in the position of power,' Freedman concluded. Lively, Reynolds and publicist Sloane filed to dismiss Baldoni's defamation lawsuit on March 20. In court documents obtained by DailyMail.com, Lively's attorneys slammed Baldoni's 'vengeful and rambling' lawsuit as a 'profound abuse of the legal process that has no place in federal court' as they asked for all claims against her to be dropped. In a shocking twist, the documents also state that Wayfarer's legal efforts against Lively may end up costing Baldoni's team $100 million due to a mandatory fee shifting provision in California Civil Code Section 47.1, which provides protections to individuals with claims of sexual harassment and similar allegations. In the introduction and summary of their argument, Lively's legal team argues the lawsuit against her has 'no place in federal court' due to legal protections for individuals who have spoken out about sexual harassment or filed legal claims. 'The law prohibits weaponizing defamation lawsuits, like this one, to retaliate against individuals who have filed legal claims or have publicly spoken out about sexual harassment and retaliation,' the documents state. 'The right to seek legal redress and the right of the press to report on it are sacred principles that are protected by multiple privileges, including the litigation and fair report privileges, which are absolute. 'Moreover, by choosing to bring their claims under California law, the Wayfarer Parties have voluntarily subjected their entire lawsuit to the sexual harassment privilege in the recently enacted California Civil Code Section 47.1 ('Section 47.1'), which bars retaliatory lawsuits based on public disclosures of sexual harassment and related allegations, including disclosures to the press.' Under the California law, communication by an individual making a claim - without malice - about sexual harassment and similar matters is considered privileged communication. Section 47.1 dictates that these individuals who prevail in a defamation lawsuit against them over the allegations will be awarded their attorney's fees, punitive damages, and treble damages (an award three times what the jury decides to give the plaintiff). The law applies to those who had a 'reasonable basis to file a complaint' of harassment and similar allegations, whether or not the complaint was filed. In an April 3 statement to DailyMail.com, Reynolds' spokesperson claimed that Baldoni and the Wayfarer Studios parties 'finally realize the plain defects in their complaint,' while calling the lawsuit 'frivolous'; Reynolds seen in November 2024 The law was signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom after the #MeToo movement. The documents note that the 'Wayfarer Parties' - Baldoni's studio - will be financially responsible for all of this should the defamation lawsuit be dismissed. 'On top of that, Section 47.1 contains a mandatory fee shifting provision that will require the Wayfarer Parties to pay not only Ms. Lively's attorneys' fees, but also treble damages and punitive damages if and when their defamation lawsuit is dismissed. In other words, in an epic self-own, the Wayfarer Parties have created more liability for themselves by their malicious efforts to sue Ms. Lively 'into oblivion.'' With this fee shifting provision in mind, the documents note that Steve Sarowitz, the co-founder of Wayferer Studios, may end up forking over the $100 million he allegedly pledged to spend on litigation in a manner he did not intend. 'Steve Sarowitz may indeed make good on his threat to spend '$100 million' litigating against Ms. Lively, but perhaps not in the way he planned.' They said Wayferer's First Amendment Complaint - shortened to 'FAC' in the legal documents - relied on 'implausible conjecture and conspiracy theories' to make their case about Lively. 'In lieu of concrete facts, the FAC resorts to implausible conjecture and conspiracy theories to allege that Ms. Lively 'falsified' her allegations. On the one hand, the Wayfarer Parties insist that Ms. Lively is an immensely powerful Hollywood superstar who, along with her influential husband, wielded power to steal creative control over the Film; but on the other hand, they claim she was so powerless that the only way she could have any power was by manufacturing sexual harassment allegations almost a year in advance in a Machiavellian long game. 'These two concepts contradict each other and therefore cannot coexist. Even if these bizarre theories made sense, which they do not, the FAC offers no plausible facts to support the conclusory assertion that Ms. Lively ever subjectively doubted that any of the misconduct she alleged had occurred as she described it, including in the 17-point list that they signed, the disclosures made in the January 4th meeting, or her eventual legal complaints. 'Indeed, despite its narrative fury against her, the FAC repeatedly and consistently includes facts that demonstrate Ms. Lively's genuine, good faith belief that she was mistreated and her appropriate and private efforts to improve the situation for herself and others.' Lively's legal team called the FAC a 'blunt public relations instrument' intended to 'bury' and destroy' Lively for speaking up about her claims. On March 20, Lively's attorneys slammed Baldoni's 'vengeful and rambling' lawsuit as a 'profound abuse of the legal process that has no place in federal court' as they asked for all claims against her to be dropped; Lively seen in February 2025 In a shocking twist, the documents also state that Wayfarer's legal efforts against Lively may end up costing Baldoni's team $100 million due to a mandatory fee shifting provision in California Civil Code Section 47.1, which provides protections to individuals with claims of sexual harassment and similar allegations; Baldoni and Lively in It Ends With Us (2024) 'In short, nothing in the FAC resembles an actionable legal claim. It is, instead, a blunt public relations instrument designed to further the Wayfarer Parties' sinister campaign to 'bury' and 'destroy' Ms. Lively for speaking out about sexual harassment and retaliation. The Court should dismiss the FAC andas required by California lawhold further proceedings to calculate an appropriate award of Ms. Lively's attorneys' fees, treble damages for the harm this meritless lawsuit has inflicted on her, and punitive damages against each of the Wayfarer Parties.' Lively's lawyers, Matt Gottlieb and Esra Hudson, said in a statement obtained by DailyMail.com: 'This lawsuit is a profound abuse of the legal process that has no place in federal court. California law now expressly prohibits suing victims who make the decision to speak out against sexual harassment or retaliation, whether in a lawsuit or in the press. 'This meritless and retaliatory lawsuit runs head first into three legal obstacles, including the litigation, fair report, and sexual harassment privileges, the latter of which contains a mandatory fee shifting provision that will require the likes of billionaire Steve Sarowitz, Wayfarer Studios, and others that brought frivolous defamation claims against Ms. Lively to pay damages. In other words, in an epic self-own, the Wayfarer Parties' attempt to sue Ms. Lively 'into oblivion' has only created more liability for them, and deservedly so, given what they have done.' Her spokesperson also said in a statement: 'The painful reality is that Ms. Lively is not alone in being sued for defamation after speaking up about being sexually harassed at work. That is entirely why California recently enacted AB 933, the Privileged Communications Incident of Sexual Assault, Harassment, or Discrimination Act, which codified California Civil Code Section 47.1. 'While Ms. Lively has suffered greatly by speaking up and pursuing legal claims, it is important for other people to know that they have protections, and that there is a specific law that expressly protects them from being silenced or financially ruined by a defamation lawsuit because they had the courage to speak up.' In the documents, Lively's legal team argue she did not act with 'actual malice' when making her claims about Baldoni, 'a public figure subject to the actual malice standard'. They state Wayfarer's FAC 'confirms' Lively reported her claims and sincerely believed them to be true. 'Far from pleading 'actual malice,' the FAC does the opposite: it confirms that Ms. Lively reported her sexual harassment allegations based upon incidents that the FAC acknowledges took place and that she genuinely believed her allegations were true. These admissions are fatal to the Wayfarer Parties' defamation claims.' The documents also said Wayfarer failed to demonstrate that Lively doubted the truthfulness of her allegations. In the documents, Lively's legal team argue she did not act with 'actual malice' when making her claims about Baldoni, 'a public figure subject to the actual malice standard'; Lively and Reynolds seen in August 2024 'Here, the FAC alleges generally that the CRD Complaint's allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation are false. The 'falsehoods' identified by the Wayfarer Parties, however, center on hair-splitting Ms. Lively's recounting of specific incidents within her Legal Complaints or, worse, attempt to justify the Wayfarer Parties' behavioressentially asserting that Ms. Lively 'asked for it.' 'Consequently, the FAC does nothing more than describe the exact same incidents from the Wayfarer Parties' points of view. Whatever relevance this 'both sides' approach may have out of court, here it only highlights the FAC's total failure to allege that Ms. Lively ever doubted the truth of her own allegations.' Additionally, it cites an alleged text conversation between Justin and his crisis publicist Melissa Nathan in which they agreed Lively truly believed she was right. 'Most damning of all, the FAC references a text message between Mr. Baldoni and Ms. Nathan, in which both agree that Mr. Lively 'genuinely believes she's right and that all of this is unjust,'' the documents state. The filing also says the FAC fails to demonstrate Lively and her team were all conspiring against Wayfarer. 'The FAC falls woefully short of adequately pleading the existence of a conspiracy amongst the Lively Parties,' the document states. 'There are no facts allegednonethat plausibly demonstrate that Ms. Lively and the Lively Parties had some 'meeting of the minds' to commit wrongful acts intended to harm the Wayfarer Parties. It never happened. Realizing this, the FAC only alleges '[o]n information and belief' that Ms. Jones approached Ms. Lively 'with an appealing offer' to purportedly 'destroy' the Wayfarer Parties.' It also adds that alleged coordination between Lively and The New York Times - whose article about Lively's original complaint sparked a lawsuit from Baldoni - was 'not wrongful as a matter of law.' 'That aside, Ms. Lively cannot share liability with any other 'Lively Party' under a civil conspiracy theory because the FAC fails to adequately plead an underlying tort; as stated above, allegedly 'coordinating with' The Times is not wrongful as a matter of law.' They also allege that their documents failed to 'allege that Ms. Lively wrongfully interfered with any contract or economic relationship.' This references Wayfarer and Baldoni being dropped by talent agency WME following the filing of Lively's claims. The lawsuit concluded by asking the court to 'dismiss all claims against Ms. Lively with prejudice, deny leave to amend, and award Ms. Lively all relief sought'; Lively seen in December 2024 The legal fallout between Lively and Baldoni came after months of intense fan speculation of tension between the two during the promotion of the film, with the duo not posing together at the premiere and doing press separately They state the documents lack evidence showing Lively did anything to destroy the relationship, and that the only 'specific allegations' were surrounding her husband, who allegedly referred to Baldoni a 'sexual predator' in conversation with a WME executive. 'The only specific allegations tied to the alleged breakdown of the WME relationship is Mr. Reynolds' alleged suggestion that 'the agency was working with a 'sexual predator'. . . and, at a later date, demanded the agent 'drop' Baldoni.' The documents also hits back against Wayferer's claims Lively extorted them. 'The FAC does not identify a single 'threat' consistent with this theory and, instead, demonstrates that Mr. Baldoni invited Ms. Lively into the creative process and to collaborate with him and showered her with praise and compliments for her efforts' 'As a legal matter, although the Wayfarer Parties have admitted that their 'civil extortion' claim is 'based' on California's criminal extortion statute, ECF No. 121 at 46, they cite no California state-court case holding that California's criminal prohibition on extortion authorizes private civil claims. It does not. ' It adds: 'Nowhere does the FAC allege that Ms. Lively 'obtained' any 'money' or property from the Wayfarer Parties, much less through a 'wrongful threat of criminal or civil prosecution' made with 'knowledge of the falsity of the claim.' They also claim Wayferer did not state any damages related to their extortion claims. 'The crux of the Wayfarer Parties' extortion claim rests on a theory that Ms. Lively made 'extortionate threats to go public with her baseless claims of sexual harassment.' This theory fails for several reasons. First, this theory relies entirely upon the same 'injurious falsehoods' as defamation, and are thus impermissibly duplicative under Blatty and its progeny. 'Second, because this theory is based upon Ms. Lively's workplace sexual harassment complaints and litigation arising from the same, it is not actionable as a matter of law... . Finally, nowhere in the FAC do the Wayfarer Parties actually allege that Ms. Lively threatened to pursue litigation against them based on their misconduct or demanded any money or property in connection with such a threat. For each of these reasons, this theory fails.' The lawsuit concluded by asking the court to 'dismiss all claims against Ms. Lively with prejudice, deny leave to amend, and award Ms. Lively all relief sought.' Baldoni and his company Wayfarer Studios filed the $400M lawsuit in January. His studio's chief executive Jamey Heath, It Ends With Us Movie LLC, and publicists Melissa Nathan and Jennifer Abel were also listed as plaintiffs, according to NPR. The legal fallout between Lively and Baldoni came after months of intense fan speculation of tension between the two during the promotion of the film, with the duo not posing together at the premiere and doing press separately. Advertisement Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson have weighed in on Robert Irwin's latest jaw-dropping modelling shoot. The Wildlife Warrior, who is the son of the late icon Steve Irwin, stripped down to his underwear to star in a Bonds campaign designed to help bring the Aussie brand to the US. The radio duo revealed their wild theory about the 'bulge' in Robert Irwin's undies after it became the topic of conversation online. They claimed Robert may have put something in his pants to 'pad it out'. 'They put moisturised bread down there. They soften and mould it, like Play-Doh,' Jackie said. 'Why would they bother doing that?' a shocked Kyle responded, as Jackie explained it helped make the area look more well-proportioned. Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson have weighed in on Robert Irwin's latest jaw-dropping modelling shoot '[Without this] It always looks too small, doesn't look padded out!' she said. This theory was previously supported by Rebecca Judd in 2020, as she exposed the underwear industry's most notorious trade secret. On KIIS FM's 3pm Pick-Up, the footy WAG revealed that male models stuff their undies with white bread on photo shoots. The purpose of this isn't to enhance the man's package, she said, but instead to round out the shape so it looks more presentable. Bec added she had heard the rumour from a friend of hers who works in Bonds' finance department. Another trick of the trade is men's dance belts, which helps lift and support the male genital parts. Fans of the Irwin family have been left swooning after Robert debuted a sexy new photo spread published Thursday. And, of course, since he's an Irwin, it was only fitting that he posed with live animals in some of the photos - and according to the magazine, most of them were venomous. The Wildlife Warrior, who is the son of the late icon Steve Irwin, stripped down to his underwear to star in a Bonds campaign designed to help bring the Aussie brand to the US The radio duo revealed their wild theory about the 'bulge' in Robert Irwin's undies after it became the topic of conversation online. 'They put moisturised bread down there. They soften and mould it, like Play-Doh,' Jackie said In one picture, Robert left little to the imagination as he wore a pair of white underwear, giving a smouldering look to the camera as a large snake was wrapped around his neck. He also draped the snake around himself as he sat down in a chair in a pair of black Bonds underwear, showing off his washboard abs. In another snap, he cuddled with a large lizard, but this time, Robert was more covered up in a casual white tank top and dark teal undies. Robert later proved he's not afraid of anything as the former zookeeper even had a large spider crawling up his arm as he lay with one leg up in the grass, showing off a pair of the gray boxers. The photos have since gone viral, with fans from all around the world swooning at the all grown-up Robert. There's good news for his female fans - speaking to People, Robert revealed that he is currently single. 'I'm single. It's funny, I'm at this point in my life where I'm like, I'm so open to that, but I'm just waiting for the stars to align,' he told the outlet. However, he has an idea of how he might meet someone. 'Interestingly, my parents, my sister Bindi met her husband [Chandler Powell] here everyone met here at our wildlife sanctuary,' he told the outlet of The Australia Zoo in Queensland, which is where he lives and works. He explained that he was looking for an 'American tourist' visiting the zoo to court. Elijah Wood of Lord of the Rings fame, has hinted at how little he was paid for his role in the billion-dollar franchise. The 44-year-old actor who confirmed his marriage in January played Frodo Baggins in the trilogy. He touched on the subject of his salary at the 2025 Texas Film Awards, revealing that the movies were shot under a single contract. 'Because we werent making one movie and then renegotiating a contract for the next, it wasnt the sort of lucrative scenario that you could sort of rest easy for the rest of your life,' he said, per an account from Business Insider. He added that director Peter Jackson took 'a real gamble' with the decision to film the movies at once, rather than breaking up the process. Elijah Wood of Lord of the Rings fame, has hinted at how little he was paid for his role in the billion-dollar franchise; pictured in January The trio of Lord of the Rings films went on to earn a whopping $2.9 billion worldwide, off a $281 million budget, cementing it as one of the biggest cinematic successes ever. Wood noted that regardless of the 'not massive salaries, the benefit of that was that we were also signing up for something that was going to be a part of our lives forever.' His co-stars Sean Astin and Orlando Bloom previously divulged that they earned around $250,000 and $175,000 respectively for all three movies. Asked by Business Insider what exactly he was compensated for his part, Elijah said the sum was not accurate and 'doesnt matter.' He gushed, 'Its such an honor to have been a part of those films, and they represent some of the best experiences of my life.' Last year it was confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter that a new installment in the franchise, Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, is in the works. It came as Warner Bros. Discovery's CEO, David Zaslav, made the announcement during the company's first-quarter earnings conference call in May. He stated that several spinoff projects were 'now in the early stages of script development,' and that the new entry in the series was being eyed for a 2026 release. The 44-year-old actor played Frodo Baggins in the trilogy Elijah is pictured left, joined by co-star Sean Astin in 2001 Earlier this year Elijah shared that he wed longtime love Mette-Marie Kongsved. While appearing on the podcast Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum, he referred to the film producer as his 'wife.' He added that he felt 'beyond grateful' for her as well as his 'family and kids.' The remarks came after sources dished to TMZ that the pair 'got married in Sweden on New Years Eve in what was described as an intimate ceremony with about 80 friends and family members.' The lovebirds, who have been romantically linked since 2018, welcomed their first child, a son, in 2019, followed by a daughter in 2021. They have not publicly shared the names of their children. Advertisement Sunrise star Sam Mac has been trolled by fans of his 'nemesis' Robert Irwin after the wildlife warrior stripped down to his underwear for a sultry Bonds photoshoot. The weatherman shared a hilarious clip to social media on Friday in which he was seen scrolling through several news stories written about Robert's steamy photos. Sam looked incredibly frustrated as he read headlines from Sunrise and Bonds promoting the smouldering ad campaign. He did not mince words in the caption: 'Stop sending it to me. Stop tagging me in it. Just let me live my life. #Nemesis.' Many of Sam's followers quickly took to the comment section to express their amusement over the post. 'People just want you to top that underwear shoot,' one fan quipped, as a second added: 'Too funny!' Sunrise star Sam Mac has been trolled by fans of his 'nemesis' Robert Irwin after the wildlife warrior stripped down to his underwear for a sultry Bonds photoshoot Sam has been engaged in a friendly feud with Robert since 2022, after the conservationist filled in for him on Sunrise while he took personal leave. At the time, Robert spoke about his new gig to co-host Natalie Barr and joked 'Sam Mac, I am coming for ya!' Sam later called Robert a 'snake in the grass' and joked the reality TV star was trying to steal his job on the popular Channel Seven breakfast show. Fans of the Irwin family have been left swooning after Robert Irwin, 21, debuted a sexy new photo spread published Thursday. Robert, who is the son of the late icon Steve Irwin, posed in a series of smoking pictures for People Magazine as he modeled Bonds, the Australian underwear brand that he's helping bring to the U.S. And, of course, since he's an Irwin, it was only fitting that he posed with live animals in some of the photos - and according to the magazine, most of them were venomous. In one picture, Robert left little to the imagination as he wore a pair of white underwear, giving a smoldering look to the camera as a large snake was wrapped around his neck. He also draped the snake around himself as he sat down in a chair in a pair of black Bonds underwear, showing off his washboard abs. The weatherman shared a hilarious clip to social media on Friday in which he was seen scrolling through several news stories written about Robert's steamy photos Sam has been engaged in a friendly feud with Robert since 2022, after the conservationist filled in for him on Sunrise while he took personal leave In another snap, he cuddled with a large lizard, but this time, Robert was more covered up in a casual white tank top and dark teal undies. Robert later proved he's not afraid of anything as the former zookeeper even had a large spider crawling up his arm as he lay with one leg up in the grass, showing off a pair of the grey boxers. The photos have since gone viral, with fans from all around the world swooning at the all grown-up Robert. There is good news for his female fans - speaking to People, Robert revealed he is currently not dating anyone. 'I'm single. It's funny, I'm at this point in my life where I'm like, I'm so open to that, but I'm just waiting for the stars to align,' he said. However, he has an idea of how he might meet someone. 'Interestingly, my parents, my sister Bindi met her husband [Chandler Powell] here everyone met here at our wildlife sanctuary,' he told the outlet of The Australia Zoo in Queensland, which is where he lives and works. He explained he was looking for an 'American tourist' visiting the zoo to court. Steph Claire Smith and her husband Josh Miller are using the Spinning Babies method to prepare for the birth of their second child. The pregnant fitness influencer, 31, filmed her husband holding up their mattress while watching an instructional tutorial for one of the recommended exercises. In videos uploaded to her Instagram Stories on Thursday, Steph can be heard laughing hysterically, while Josh held up the bottom end of the mattress to keep her aloft on an angle. Steph flaunted her huge baby bump, which she cradled with one arm while holding her iPhone up with the other, and chuckled while she documented the humorous moment. 'Do you have to stay there?' she asks Josh and he turns his eyes to the video. 'I do have to stay here,' he deadpans, making her laugh harder at the idea of lying on a diagonal angle. Steph Claire Smith and her husband Josh Miller are using the Spinning Babies method to prepare for the birth of their second child The pregnant fitness influencer, 31, filmed her husband holding up their mattress while watching an instructional tutorial for one of the recommended exercises In the second video, she can be seen relaxing on the up-turned mattress, as she practised one of the body balancing exercises for pregnancy and labour. 'Trying the Spinning Babies moves. Josh is holding up the bed like a champ for one of them,' the influencer captioned the video. Spinning Babies is an approach 'to optimise the physical relationship between the bodies of the mother and baby for pregnancy comfort and easier childbirth,' per the website that offers 'Parent Class' videos. It was devised by American midwife Gai Tully, who describes it as 'practical birth preparation and baby positioning to fit the pelvis and reduce pain in childbirth'. 'During birth, babies descend through the pelvis by turning to fit each curve in the passage,' the Spinning Babies website explains. 'Babys turns are fetal rotation. If fetal rotation can be made easier, birth is easier for everyone. If practiced daily, an easier labor and birth are likely.' Steph and her husband Josh are preparing for the birth of their second child PhD nursing candidate Darlene Sears conducted an in-depth comparison study on Spinning Babies in 2023 to find out if women who used the method had shorter labours, or smoother deliveries. She found the conventional way of labouring had a shorter duration of labour in the first and second stages. However, 84 per cent of women who used Spinning Babies delivered vaginally, compared to 77 per cent of women who did not use Spinning Babies. While doing the maternal positioning exercises didn't make labour shorter for the 400 women in the study, they were less likely to need a C-section. Steph and her husband Josh already share a three-year-old son, Harvey, who they welcomed in May 2021. The pair married in November 2019 in a festival-themed ceremony along the Murray River, exactly one year after getting engaged at the same location. 'We aren't one and done,' Steph said during a fan Q&A session last July. 'We'd love to have a second child. It's about working out the best timing for our family at the moment. '[But we are] super excited [to have another]... if we are lucky enough to have a sibling and grow our family...we'll see.' Steph, the co-founder of fitness program Keep It Cleaner, frequently shares with fans the challenges she faces as a young mother and businesswoman. Advertisement I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! star Julia Morris is a big fan of Robert Irwin's new sultry photoshoot for Bonds underwear. The high-profile zookeeper sent fans into a frenzy on Thursday after the pictures hit the internet, many of them featuring a half-naked Robert in provocative poses. One photo shows Robert holding a large lizard over his shoulder, another shows him reclining with a snake at his neck and the third shows the TV star giving a smouldering look at the camera. Julia, who co-hosts the survival show with the 21-year-old, shared three of the thirst trap pictures to her Instagram after they were sent to her by Robert. The funny woman joked they were 'age appropriate' after the wildlife warrior cropped the image into headshots. 'Congratulations on a spectacular shoot/breaking of the internet,' Julia said in the caption. I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! star Julia Morris is a big fan of Robert Irwin 's new sultry photoshoot for Bonds underwear Julia, who co-hosts the survival show with the 21-year-old, shared three of the thirst trap pictures to her Instagram after they were sent to her by Robert 'I love you and you have done an age appropriate edit for me (and seriously global joy for Bonds Australia. Genius Jx.' It comes after fans of the Irwin family were left swooning after Robert debuted a new photo spread on Thursday. Robert, the son of the late icon Steve Irwin, posed in a series of smoking pictures for People Magazine as he modelled Bonds to help bring the Aussie brand to the US. In a gimmick that referenced his career as a conservationist, Robert posed with live animals in some of the photosand according to the magazine, most of them were venomous. In one picture, Robert left little to the imagination as he wore a pair of white underwear, giving a smoldering look to the camera as a large snake was wrapped around his neck. He also draped the snake around himself as he sat down in a chair in a pair of black Bonds underwear, showing off his washboard abs. In another snap, he cuddled with a large lizard, but this time, Robert was more covered up in a casual white tank top and dark teal undies. The photos have since gone viral, with fans from all around the world swooning at the all grown-up Robert. The funny woman joked they were 'age appropriate' after the wildlife warrior cropped the image into headshots The high-profile zookeeper sent fans into a frenzy on Thursday after the pictures hit the internet, many of them featuring a half-naked Robert in provocative poses On X, many just couldn't believe their eyes. 'Robert Irwin I was unfamiliar with your game,' one person wrote, accompanied by a sweating-face emoji. 'HAVE Y'ALL SEEN ROBERT IRWIN?!?!' someone else typed. Another joked, 'Robert Irwin I have been in love with you since I was a child please one chance.' 'Robert Irwin thirst trap photoshoot this is how a mom cleaning her son's room and finding a pack of cigarettes under the mattress must feel like,' an X user chimed in. A second person poked, 'Robert Irwin I will raise your lizard baby like it's my own.' 'Robert Irwin I'm free tonight for dinner if you are too Robert Irwin I could be flexible and meet you in Australia if that works better for you Robert Irwin,' another quipped. And there's good news for thirsty fans - speaking to People, Robert revealed that he is currently single. 'I'm single. It's funny, I'm at this point in my life where I'm like, I'm so open to that, but I'm just waiting for the stars to align,' he told the outlet. However, he has an idea of how he might meet someone. 'Interestingly, my parents, my sister Bindi met her husband [Chandler Powell] here everyone met here at our wildlife sanctuary,' he told the outlet of The Australia Zoo in Queensland, which is where he lives and works. He explained that he was looking for an 'American tourist' visiting the zoo to court. 'In both instances, there were American tourists that were coming over and visiting the zoo. So I'm waiting. I'm waiting for that American tourist to come into the zoo and for it all to happen!' Robert shared. Kim Delaney, the television star accused of running her husband over in late March, has now extended an unexpected gesture toward him. The 63-year-old NYPD Blue actress took to Instagram on Thursday to share two photos of a bouquet of roses she appeared to have gifted her spouse, James Morgan. In an accompanying caption, she wrote, 'Birthday Boy, 55!!!!! Your wife loves you, my guy!' It comes less than a week after Delaney and Morgan were arrested after an alleged 'heated argument that turned physical.' Law enforcement sources confirmed that police were called to their residence for a domestic disturbance around 10am on Saturday. By Tuesday, TMZ reported that Los Angeles prosecutors declined to file any charges against her or her husband. According to Morgan, who married Delaney two and a half years ago, she tried to run him down with her vehicle. Kim Delaney, the television star accused of running her husband over in late March, has now extended an unexpected gesture toward him The 63-year-old NYPD Blue actress took to Instagram on Thursday to share two photos of a bouquet of roses she appeared to have gifted her spouse, James Morgan In an accompanying caption, she wrote, 'Birthday Boy, 55!!!!! Your wife loves you, my guy!' Police later arrested her and charged her with felony assault likely to cause great bodily injury. Morgan was charged with misdemeanor domestic violence. Morgan was released on $20,000 bond the same day, while Delaney was released Tuesday, according to jail records reviewed by NBC4LA. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office told the outlet that they didn't have 'sufficient evidence to move forward against either of them.' According to the law enforcement sources, Delany made a call to the LA County Sheriff's Department on Friday night, accusing her husband of domestic violence against her. He was said to have left their home after the alleged incident, but returned on Saturday morning, prompting Delaney to contact the police again. Police arrived to and Morgan played them a video allegedly showing Delaney's attempt to run him over with her car. After speaking with the actress, police arrested both parties at the scene. Kim and James pictured in a social media post shared in March 2024 Days before the domestic altercation, Kim had shared an up-close photo with James, writing, 'Pure love' Kim pictured as Detective Diane Russell on NYPD Blue in 1998 Days before the domestic altercation, Kim had shared an up-close photo nuzzling James, writing, 'Pure love.' And in January she uploaded a photo of her husband wrapping and arm around her and kissing her cheek as she captioned: '#Love always wins! Lets keep this love and kindness with each other through these uncertain times!' In addition to starring as Detective Diane Russell on NYPD Blue, Delaney has appeared on All My Children, Army Wives, and CSI: Miami. Originally from Philadelphia, she started her career as a model before expanding to acting. Blake Lively's sugar-coated PR stunt at a Connecticut doughnut shop last Sunday has sparked an official investigation into the establishment over alleged unsanitary practices. The It Ends With Us star, 37, who is embroiled in legal drama with co-star Justin Baldoni, visited Rise Doughnuts in Wilton where she was called out by fans for the 'disgusting' act of not wearing a hairnet while she baked. Posting footage from her visit, she wrote: 'Baking with genius food friends and their kitchen mixer the size of a car. This is what my happy place looks like...' A spokesperson for the Wilton Health Department confirmed that they've received complaints about Lively working in the kitchen without a hairnet, covering, hat, or hair-tie to keep her flaxen mane from shedding all over the $5 craft donuts - and that the business is under investigation. It's unclear what possible health code violations, sanctions, or fines could be enforced on owners Hugh Mangum and Laura Malone, who only acquired the former pizzeria in 2022. Rise Doughnuts currently has a 4.5 out of five star rating on Yelp and all new reviews are paused as 'this business is being monitored by Yelp's Support team for content related to media reports.' Blake Lively 's sugar-coated PR stunt at a Connecticut doughnut shop last Sunday has sparked an official investigation into the establishment over alleged unsanitary practices 'Is it the practice at this doughnut shop to allow employees handling the food to wear their hair loose & hang a few inches above a tray of doughnuts?' Yelp user J.J. complained in a recent review that got through. 'Why don't your employees have to wear hairnets? This does not seem sanitary.' TMZ was first to report news of the investigation. Yelp user Stephanie T. appears to be one of the people reporting Rise to the health department after claiming to have visited Sunday 'and found long, stringy hay-like hair in my doughnuts. Perhaps it was from the loud, annoying blond woman working behind the corner.' 'No matter who is baking or serving, food safety guidelines need to be followed,' Yelp user Wendi C. advised in her review. 'Friends shouldn't be hanging out in the food prep areas, leaning on equipment and not having their hair up.' Yelp user Yiyi Z. claimed in her review: 'Found a hair in my doughnut, would not recommend. Do the workers not have hygiene training before serving food?' Yelp user Crystal I. quoted the FDA Food Code and alleged: 'These basic food safety standards are not followed. Recent pictures and video show no one in this establishment follows protocol. Health inspector has been notified.' Indeed, Rise Doughnuts posted a silly staff Instagram video on October 11 where none of the employees appear to be wearing hairnets. DailyMail.com has reached out to representatives for Blake Lively. the Wilton Health Department and Rise Doughnuts for comment but has not heard back. The troubled 37-year-old captioned BTS footage from Sunday: 'Baking with genius food friends and their kitchen mixer the size of a car. This is what my happy place looks like...' A spokesperson for the Wilton Health Department confirmed to TMZ Thursday that they've received complaints about Blake working in the kitchen without a hairnet It's unclear what possible health code violations, sanctions, or fines could be enforced on owners Hugh Mangum (L) and Laura Malone, who only acquired the former pizzeria in 2022 Rise Doughnuts currently has a 4.5 out of five star rating on Yelp and all new reviews are paused as 'this business is being monitored by Yelp's Support team for content related to media reports' Yelp user J.J. complained in a recent review that got through: 'Is it the practice at this doughnut shop to allow employees handling the food to wear their hair loose & hang a few inches above a tray of doughnuts? Why don't your employees have to wear hairnets? This does not seem sanitary' Yelp user Stephanie T. appears to be one of the people reporting Rise to the health department after claiming to have visited Sunday 'and found long, stringy hay-like hair in my doughnuts. Perhaps it was from the loud, annoying blond woman working behind the corner' 'No matter who is baking or serving, food safety guidelines need to be followed,' Yelp user Wendi C. advised in her review. 'Friends shouldn't be hanging out in the food prep areas, leaning on equipment and not having their hair up' Yelp user Crystal I. quoted the FDA Food Code and alleged: 'These basic food safety standards are not followed. Recent pictures and video show no one in this establishment follows protocol. Health inspector has been notified' Indeed, Rise Doughnuts posted a silly staff Instagram video on October 11 where none of the employees appear to be wearing hairnets Lively (born Brown) seems to bring backlash wherever she goes with her most recent scandal involving an improvised crotch grab on her co-star Henry Golding that she hypocritically admitted to during the DVD commentary of A Simple Favor. The Secrets of the Penguins narrator is in the midst of a legal war against her It Ends With Us director Justin Baldoni, whom she's accused of sexually harassing her on set. It all began December 20 when Blake filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department against the 41-year-old filmmaker for sexual harassment and retaliation on the set of the Sony Pictures drama, and revealed her side to the New York Times. Justin immediately filed a libel lawsuit for $250M against the New York Times for allegedly biased coverage of Lively's California complaint and she filed a lawsuit against him and his PR team on December 31 for his alleged 'plan to undermine her reputation in retaliation' with a vicious smear campaign in retaliation for reporting sexual harassment. All of the parties deny the allegations against them. On January 16, Baldoni filed a second $400M lawsuit against the Gossip Girl alum, Reynolds, and their publicist Leslie Sloan for civil extortion, defamation, and invasion of privacy. The federal trial in the Southern District of New York, in Manhattan, is currently scheduled for March 2026. Baldonis court papers allege evidence that Blake - who requires 'authorship' on all her films - appears to have masterminded a takeover of the It Ends with Us script, wardrobe, score, and editing departments by threatening to pull out of promoting the domestic violence drama. Last August, Lively faced substantial outrage over her treatment of journalists, sarcastically answering questions about DV in her movie, and floral-filled Barbie-style promotion directly tied to her haircare and booze brands. Lively (born Brown) seems to bring backlash wherever she goes with her most recent scandal involving an improvised crotch grab on her co-star Henry Golding that she hypocritically admitted to during the DVD commentary of A Simple Favor The Secrets of the Penguins narrator is in the midst of a legal war against her It Ends With Us director Justin Baldoni (M, pictured in 2024), whom she's accused of sexually harassing her on set The Deadpool & Wolverine actress was also accused of having two of her friends (including director Paul Feig's wife) pose as ordinary fans with her outside the Paramount Theatre in Austin for the SXSW premiere of Another Simple Favor on March 7. Blake reprised her role as bride-to-be Emily Nelson, who's somehow free after being sentenced to 20 years in prison for the double murder of her father and sister, in the Italian-set sequel premiering May 1 on Prime Video. Another Simple Favor also features Anna Kendrick, Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Michele Morrone, Elena Sofia Ricci, Elizabeth Perkins, Alex Newell, and Allison Janney. Iris Law looked ravishing in red as she and Irina Shayk led the stars at the Magda Butrym and H&M event held at Skylight One Hanson in Brooklyn, New York. The 24-year-old daughter of Jude Law and Sadie Frost was sure to turn heads as she rocked a busty scarlet number while posing at the bash celebrating the collaboration between the luxury clothing brand and the Swedish fashion retailer. Iris highlighted her trim figure in the slinky number which she teamed with a pair of red strappy sandals and delicate silver jewellery. The beauty looked in great spirits as she mingled with other guests at the event including model Nara Smith, 23, who wowed in a ruffled red mini dress. Meanwhile Irina, 39, opted for a quirky veiled cap for the occasion, which she teamed with an oversized black blazer worn as a dress. The Russian model showcased her toned pins in the number, which she wore with strappy black heels. Iris Law looked ravishing in red as she and Irina Shayk led the stars at the Magda Butrym and H&M event held at Skylight One Hanson in Brooklyn, New York Meanwhile Irina, 39, opted for a quirky veiled cap for the occasion, which she teamed with an oversized black blazer worn as a dress Irina looked on fine form at the event, taking the opportunity to pose alongside woman of the moment Magda Butrym. The Polish designer cut a stylish figure herself, donning a cropped leather jacket and a black midi skirt for the event. The ladies were in good company as other attendees included Amelia Gray, Valentina Sampaio and Chloe Sevigny. Guests took in the incredible floral installations at the venue and sipped on rose-infused cocktails, all in a nod to Magna's signature rose aesthetic. The night featured performances by Charlotte Lawrence and Kelela, while there were also DJ sets by Soo Joo and Fifi. Speaking about the event, Magda shared: 'I was honoured to see the collection come to life on so many amazing women this evening. My inspiration has always been strong, confident femininity, and this evening was a special and joyful celebration of that.' While Ann-Sofie Johansson, Creative Advisor at H&M added: 'The central motif in the Magda Butrym H&M collection is the rose, so it was wonderful to see Brooklyn in bloom tonight. Magdas collection is a true celebration of poetry and romance and this event really captured that.' Iris' appearance comes after she sent temperatures soaring last month as she flaunted her jaw-dropping figure in a series of bikinis in a new Victoria's Secret PINK photoshoot on the beach. The 24-year-old daughter of Jude Law and Sadie Frost was sure to turn heads as she rocked a busty scarlet number while posing at the bash (pictured with Nara Smith) Iris highlighted her trim figure in the slinky number which she teamed with a pair of red strappy sandals and delicate silver jewellery The beauty looked in great spirits as she mingled with other guests at the event including model Nara, 23, who wowed in a ruffled red mini dress Iris was on great form as she modelled her red dress which featured flower buds at the bust Amelia Gray, Valentina Sampaio, Iris Law, Nara Smith, Gabbriette and Chloe Sevigny posed for a fab snap at the Magda Butrym and H&M Collaboration Party Russian model Irina showcased her toned pins in the number, which she wore with strappy black heels The beauty was sure to turn heads in her quirky ensemble Irina looked on fine form at the event, taking the opportunity to pose alongside woman of the moment Magda Butrym The Polish designer cut a stylish figure herself, donning a cropped leather jacket and a black midi skirt for the event The model looked nothing short of incredible as she showcased her toned stomach and slender frame. Iris is the face of the collaboration between PINK and Frankies Bikinis, with the latest collection dropping in March. In one snap, she showcased her model looks in a blue leopard print set, as she laid across a tree trunk in the skimpy ensemble. She opted for a glowing palette of makeup as she showed off her natural beauty in the scallop edge bikini top, with her short platinum blonde hair blowing in the breeze. Iris accessorised with a dainty pair of twisted gold hoop earrings as she made the most of the stunning weather. The night featured performances by Charlotte Lawrence and Kelela, while there were also DJ sets by Soo Joo [pictured] and Fifi Soo Joo wowed in a denim crop top and matching jeans Leonie Hanne rocked a pink mini dress beneath a leather burgundy coat, while Charlotte Lawrence dazzled in a metallic sequin number Nara Smith put on a leggy display in her thigh-skimming red dress Gabbriette rocked a striking black rose motif top, while Ana Rujas opted for an all-black ensemble Alison Toby showed off her legs in a white lace mini dress Amelia Gray Hamlin looked gorgeous in a fitted black maxi dress It comes after the model took to her Instagram to share a slew of behind-the-scenes snaps from her Vogue Espana shoot. Iris opened up about her personal sense of style in the Vogue Espana piece. She revealed she flits between different phases - sometimes feeling more feminine, while in others she adopts an androgynous look. 'I don't dress for anyone, I just try to feel good and be comfortable. 'I let myself be carried away by how I am in an intuitive way, even if it's not what is understood as chic or cool,' she said. 'I have gone through many phases: more feminine, more androgynous... I like to change; every day is different.' Polly Sellman showed off her four stone weight loss as she took to Instagram on Friday with a sizzling photo dump of her summer in Australia. The MAFS UK star, 28, who appeared on the reality show last year, made the move Down Under over Christmas. Proving that it was the best decision she ever made, the beauty shared an array of racy snaps that documented her time in Sydney. Polly first turned heads in a skimpy red bikini that flaunted her slimline figure as she posed up a storm on the beach. She then showed off her incredible tan as she slipped into a leopard print two-piece. The star then treated her followers to another sexy snap in a tiny green bikini as she struck a pose on the rocks by the ocean. MAFS star Polly Sellman showed off her four stone weight loss when she took to Instagram on Friday with a sizzling photo dump of her summer in Australia The MAFS UK star, 28, who appeared on the reality show last year, made the move Down Under over Christmas . Proving it was the best decision she ever made, the beauty shared an array of racy snaps as she documented her time in Sydney Polly has documented her weight loss since leaving the show This was followed by Polly looking as glamorous as ever in a figure hugging brown co-ord. The photo dump was completed with sweet snaps with friends as they soaked up the sun on the beach. Polly penned alongside the post: 'Sad to be saying bye to summer.' It comes after the star revealed the real reason why she pulled out of the explosive MAFS UK reunion with two days notice. The cast reunited for an explosive reunion episode in February, leading to tears, tantrums and turmoil. Yet one face was notably absent from the episode, with Polly failing to show up after her romance with ex-husband Adam Nightingale came to an explosive end during the final dinner party. Viewers watched the combative couple sling insults during the wild dinner party, with the career advisor branding her groom, 35, a 'f*****g narcissist' After fans questioned why the beauty failed to film the reunion show, she took to TikTok to address their concerns. The star treated her followers to another sexy snap in a tiny green bikini as she struck a pose on the rocks by the ocean This was followed by Polly looking as glamorous as ever in a figure hugging brown co-ord The photo dump was completed with sweet snaps with friends as they soaked up the sun on the beach Having filmed herself lip-syncing Alessia Caras hit track, Here, she captioned the post: 'Seems fitting for everyone who's asking me why I didn't attend tonight. 'I was also in Centre Parcs when filming was, and I pulled out 2 days before because it wasn't the best decision for me at the time. 'I wanted to stay with my best friends who genuinely cared about the head space I was in at the time.' Since relocating to Australia Polly has undergone a dramatic transformation since her time on the show. She previously spoke about her weight loss on her Story as she posted saying: 'I've just weighed myself (I know you shouldn't at night) and I'm honestly gobsmacked that I've now lost nearly 4 stone... 4!!!! Since March!!! 'I finished filming and I was 16 stone (have been there or there abouts for 2 years) and now I'm 12.5.' And after relocating to Australia she looked like she was having the time of her life in the sunshine over the festive period as she flaunted her physique. Polly added of how she achieved it: 'It's been a case of upping my water intake, eating less and moving more. During her time on MAFS UK, Polly failed to show up after her romance with ex-husband Adam Nightingale came to an explosive end during the final dinner party (pictured together 2024) Back in September, Polly first shared that she'd been on a six-month mission to slim down, and unveiled her impressive transformation in a before and after post 'And I love that I've found a huge passion for fitness again because of the routine I really kept to, and still do.' 'I still have a little way to go to get to my goal weight then when I'm there it's going to be building strength and maintaining the weight I've lost without living a restricted lifestyle and keep a healthy relationship with food and drink. 'I've always been confident however not so much with my body, now have a lot more self confidence and feel so much more comfortable in certain clothing whereas I didn't before. 'I dressed well for my shape and size but never felt hugely comfortable just the fact I knew how to dress to hide certain insecurities. 'However that's now changed and I don't think as much about covering certain things when I'm ordering clothes and it feels sooooo good.' Back in September, Polly first shared that she'd been on a six-month mission to slim down, and unveiled her impressive transformation in a before and after post. Indecent Exposure Earlier this month, Kanye and Bianca walked the red carpet during the 67th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. The Heartless rapper wore an all-black ensemble while Censori wore a long, fuzzy black coat. However, at one point, she turned her back towards the cameras and dramatically let the outer piece fall to the floor. Bianca wore a sheer, flesh-colored minidress and opted to not wear anything underneath - with social media users condemning the 'disturbing' look and one calling the action 'indecent exposure.' Others expressed concern for the architect, with one penning: 'Can someone explain why this is cool?' 'Because to me, it's giving exploitation, trafficking. It's so weird and he objectifies her in front of the world. Someone help her, jeez,' they added, while another shared, 'She's clearly looking stressed out.' His commands to Censori moments before she removed the coat were revealed by lip reader Nicola Hicklin on TikTok. At one point, Hicklin claimed that West told Bianca, 'You're making a scene now,' and she responded by nodding her head. The lip reader added that the music artist also told her, ''Make a scene, I'll say it'll make so much sense.' Fan recently condemned Bianca's 'disturbing' look at the Grammys, with one calling the action 'indecent exposure' Bianca is no stranger to parading around in public in racy outfits since marrying the rapper; Pictured in 2024 in Paris, France Kanye - who also goes by Ye - then said, 'Drop it behind you and then turn, I got you.' Censori replied with, 'Alright let's go.' Bianca is no stranger to parading around in public in racy outfits since marrying the rapper. Some of her X-rated ensembles in the past included when she wore a nude bodysuit while clutching a purple pillow to her chest while in Italy with West in 2023. Last year she exposed her breasts in a completely see-through netted top as she made her way to the Melrose Tanning Company salon, opting not to wear a bra. She also previously eschewed a top in favor of bandage-like halter suspenders that only covered her nipples. A source previously told DailyMail.com that Censori's father Leo had demanded that both his daughter and Kanye go to Australia to address his concerns over her racy looks. Just one month before, the rapper's ex Kim Kardashian requested that Bianca 'cover up' when around their four children. Last year Kanye shared a risque snap of Bianca posing braless in a sheer Yeezy tank top and a very racy micro thong Kanye claims 'dominion' over Bianca West has claimed Bianca can't wear anything without his approval. After Bianca shocked the world when she attended the music awards completely naked under a sheer dress, exposing her breasts and genitals, Kanye lashed back at critics and claimed 'dominion' over his wife. The stunt made global headlines and many of Kanye's followers were quick to accuse the rapper of being 'abusive' and 'controlling' while using his wife's body 'as clout'. Addressing the backlash amid a vile anti-Semitic, sexist and homophobic rant in February, Kanye claimed that he has 'dominion' over Bianca but insisted he would never force her to wear anything she didn't feel comfortable in. He tweeted: 'I HAVE DOMINION OVER MY WIFE THIS AINT NO WOKE AS FEMINIST S**T SHES WITH A BILLIONAIRE WHY WOULD SHE LISTEN TO ANY OF YOU DUMB A** BROKE B*****S. 'PEOPLE SAY THE RED CARPET LOOK WAS HER DECISION YES I DONT MAKE HER DO NOTHING SHE DOESNT WANT TO BUT SHE DEFINITELY WOULDNT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO DO IT WITHOUT MY APPROVAL YOU STUPID A** WOKE PAWNS.' After Bianca shocked the world when she attended the music awards completely naked under a sheer dress, exposing her breasts and genitals, Kanye lashed back at critics and claimed 'dominion' over his wife He carried on his rant in the early hours, penning: 'Anyone who called my wifes Grammy look a stunt is dumb and laaaame yes youuuu.' 'She been dressing naked for 2 years. Now all of a sudden its a stunt. Every single b***h on the planet wish they had her bravery body platform and access to money and a husband that supported they personal expression. 'There are a lot of things that had to converge for this moment to happen.' Since Kanye married Bianca in 2022 fans have expressed concern over her wellbeing, with the Australian architect continuously seen parading around in various states of undress. A day later he doubled down on his 'dominion' claims as he launched into another anti-Semitic rant where he targeted Jewish women. 'TO ALL JEWISH HUSBANDS COME GET YOUR B***H I JUST F****D THE SHIT OUT OF HER AND DONT WANNA HEAR HER YAPPING.' He continued, writing, 'There's a sweet Jewish named Jill with the best taste that lives in New York sending love to you from me and my wife i am speaking on behalf of my wife since i have dominion over her which is quite different than the dynamic i've seen at every shabbat i've been to.' Addressing the backlash amid a vile anti-Semitic, sexist and homophobic rant in February, Kanye claimed that he has 'dominion' over Bianca but insisted he would never force her to wear anything she didn't feel comfortable in A day later he doubled down on his 'dominion' claims as he launched into another anti-Semitic rant where he targeted Jewish women Bianca 'traumatized' by Kanye's vile rants Earlier this month it was reported that Bianca was left so traumatized by Kanye's vile antisemitic diatribe that she is now refusing to continue shooting their new film. Bianca is playing the lead in a fictional art film, partly shot in Japan and co-created by West, and their creative circle, with a focus on the female body as something to showcase. But she is reportedly struggling to recover from his repulsive rampage on X which saw him post a slew of antisemitic, homophobic and sexist slurs, as well as using his Yeezy website to sell a $20 white T-shirt featuring a swastika. The shocking three-day spree has left the fate of their $25 million film in jeopardy, with two producers on the verge of walking out, DailyMail.com can reveal. Bianca is deeply traumatised by Yes actions, and she does not align with these views at all, an insider said. She is horrified by what he has done, as are so many people close to Ye. She is so put off by this that she is currently refusing to continue shooting. They said the film is entirely funded by the couple. Censori, an architecture graduate, had been described as a brilliant actress after taking on the lead in the all-female cast. DailyMail.com was previously told the production would deal with how shame over being naked is not natural to humans and that obscenity exists only in the mind.' Earlier this month it was reported that Bianca was left so traumatized by Kanye's vile antisemitic diatribe that she is now refusing to continue shooting their new film Shooting recently wrapped in Japan but was scheduled to continue at an undisclosed location. This is now on hold with its future uncertain if Censori does not return. The situation is now at a standstill, as two producers involved in the project are on the cusp of quitting over his antisemitic rants, the source said. With production paused over Bianca's refusal to continue, the future is uncertain. West made mention of the film on X hours after their headline-grabbing red carpet stunt at the Grammys which saw Censori turn her back to photographers, drop her fur coat and expose her naked body underneath a sheer nude dress. 'My wifes first red carpet opened a whole new world,' wrote the Grammy-winner. 'I keep staring at this photo like I was staring in admiration that night Thinking wow I am so lucky to have a wife that is so smart talented brave and hot. 'She took a break from shooting her first film to make a movie in real life.' West renewed his attack on the Jewish community last week, referring to himself as a Nazi, claiming he 'loved Hitler,' and insisting that he will never 'trust or work with Jewish people' again. 'IM NEVER APOLOGIZING FOR MY JEWISH COMMENTS I CAN SAY WHATEVER THE F**K I WANNA SAY FOREVER WHERES MY F***ING APOLOGY FOR FREEZING MY ACCOUNTS SUCK MY D**K HOWS THAT FOR AN APOLOGY,' he wrote. Hours later he promoted his greatest performance art piece thus far' a swastika T-shirt during the Super Bowl. His Yeezy site was swiftly suspended by its hosts Shopify, with Isla Fisher and David Schwimmer spearheading a growing number of celebrities condemning him. The site closure was said to be a blow for Censori as it had become a key source of income for them both, and she does not know how to recover from this. When he endorsed the sale of items bearing a swastika and the phrase Hail Hitler this crossed a line because his repulsive and hateful attack could have dangerous consequences, the source said. The controversial artist, who recently claimed he was autistic after allegedly being misdiagnosed as bi-polar, unfurled a succession of shocking tweets over the weekend which included an array of anti-Semitic, homophobic and sexist slurs, as well as pornographic content, which saw his X account deactivated. Bianca is deeply traumatised by Yes actions, and she does not align with these views at all, an insider said. She is horrified by what he has done, as are so many people close to Ye' Lewd Act on a Boat In Italy The pair are certainly no strangers to making global headlines. West and Censori caused a firestorm in August 2023 when they appeared to engage in an intimate act while on a boat ride in Venice, Italy. The pair were spotted enjoying an amorous moment on a water taxi as West exposed his bare buttocks in front of gawking tourists. Images of the couple showed the American rapper seated at the back of the river taxi while his wife placed her head in his lap. Venezia Turismo Motoscafi, the company that rented the boat to West and Censori, later confirmed to Daily Mail that the couple were 'no longer welcome' aboard their watercraft. In a statement, the company condemned the pair's bawdy activity and confirmed the driver was 'completely unaware' what occurred on the boat. 'On board, the driver had to keep a lookout for traffic and did not see these obscenities. If this had happened, he would have immediately disembarked and reported the transgressors to those in authority,' the company said. West and Censori caused a firestorm in August 2023 when they appeared to engage in an intimate act while on a boat ride in Venice, Italy 'In addition, there was a third person on board the taxi, who accompanied Mr and Mrs West, who obstructed the captain's view to the stern in any case.' The third person was a woman who has been pictured chaperoning West and Censori during their Italian holiday. The company went on to denounce the couple's explicit display, saying: 'We completely dissociate ourselves from such acts and behaviour.' 'Mr West and his wife will certainly no longer be welcome on board our company's boats.' Meanwhile critics said the bawdy display was 'disrespectful' to residents of the conservative Catholic nation. A month later, West and Censori were spotted strolling through Italy while the Aussie went topless, holding a purple cushion to cover her breasts. A body language expert previously said that it appears like Kanye is 'dominating and controlling' Bianca based on their demeanors; The two seen in 2023 Expert claims Kanye is 'dominating and controlling' Bianca A body language expert previously said that it appears like Kanye is 'dominating and controlling' Bianca based on their demeanors - revealing that all the 'affection' has disappeared from their relationship. Their over-the-top outfits and indecent behavior ignited fierce concern for Bianca's wellbeing among social media users - and even her friends. Body language expert Judi James has analyzed their interactions for DailyMail.com - warning that Bianca's 'wary glances' and 'blank' stares hint that she has a 'desire to stop' the outlandish acts. She also noticed a 'lack of connection' between her and the rapper - and theorized that while they continue to put on a united front to the millions of people who are watching on, their relationship may be falling apart behind the scenes when the cameras aren't on them. 'Either these two are creating some bizarre form of performance art in a bid to gain attention and publicity or this is Kanye doing what looks like an extreme version of what he has been accused of before - dominating his partner and controlling her wardrobe choices,' she said. Last year West was eviscerated by his own fans for sharing 'creepy' photos of Bianca on Instagram Kanye slammed for posting 'creepy' pictures of Bianca wearing barely any clothes Last year West was eviscerated by his own fans for sharing 'creepy' photos of Bianca on Instagram. He raised eyebrows by sharing three photos of Bianca to his 18.4M followers, with one captioned: 'No pants this year'. In the images, Bianca was seen posing around the couple's home wearing an extremely revealing bra, G-string, leather corset, stockings and a fur stole that barely covered her modesty. Fans were quick to express their distaste, with many urging Kanye to stop sharing explicit photos of Bianca for the sake of his children. 'This is kind of creepy because she's your wife, and you're treating her like a human dominatrix doll... not it,' one wrote, as another begged: 'Stop prostituting your partner.' 'At this point, you're turning a beautiful young woman into something you own and play with, not something you cherish,' yet another added. Others claimed Kanye's posts contradicted his Christian values. 'He preaches Christianity and then does things like this,' one disappointed follower wrote. 'This is kind of creepy because she's your wife, and you're treating her like a human dominatrix doll... not it,' one wrote, as another begged: 'Stop prostituting your partner' Bianca's father fears that West is turning the architect into 'a tacky naked trophy' In 2024 it was reported that Bianca's convict father wanted a sit down and talk with Kanye over fears the rapper was pushing his daughter away from her family and turning her into a 'trashy commodity,' insiders have claimed. His request came as the Yeezy designer was pictured wearing no underwear underneath a pair of sheer stockings while out to dinner with the controversial musician in Paris, France - a look that could land her in prison or be forced to pay a hefty fine due to France's indecency laws. Insiders have told DailyMail.com that Bianca's family is 'hurting' at watching their loved one being paraded around like a 'trophy pony' and have questioned how Kanye would feel in the future if a man was treating his daughters, North and Chicago, in the same way. 'Bianca's father Leo wants to have a proper sit down with Kanye and ask him what the hell he is thinking when he parades Bianca around like a trashy naked trophy pony,' said a source close to the Yeezy architect - whose father is the brother of a notorious gangland killer. In 2024 it was reported that Bianca's convict father, Leo Censori, wanted a sit down and talk with Kanye over fears the rapper was turning her into a 'trashy commodity' 'He wants to ask Kanye what he would do if his daughters North, or Chicago, were seen in public half-naked in outfits encouraged by their husbands. 'He knows that there is no way in hell that Kanye would allow this for his daughters so it makes no sense why he would encourage this for his own wife.' Kanye has also been accused of 'shutting her out' from her family in Australia. 'If this isn't bad enough, the man who is supposed to protect Mr. and Mrs. Censori's daughter is the same man that is shutting her out from her own family,' the insider continued. 'Leo honestly wants to just sit Kanye down to let him know that he is hurting her family by turning his beloved daughter into a trashy-looking marketable commodity.' They finished: 'No man should ever encourage the woman that he loves to walk out in public and present herself like this. That isn't love. That is control.' Kanye has also been accused of 'shutting her out' from her family in Australia; Bianca seen with her sister Angelina Kim Kardashian tells ex-husband Kanye to make Bianca COVER UP when she's around their children Last year, Kim warned Kanye to tell Bianca to cover up and refrain from wearing her infamously-scandalous outfits around their children, insiders have claimed. Kim, 44, is said to have an amicable relationship with Bianca but is reportedly not a fan of her parading her risque fashion in front of North, 11, Saint, nine, Chicago, seven and Psalm, five, whom she shares with the rapper. Kim instructed Kanye to never let Bianca dress like that around their kids, a source told DailyMail.com exclusively. She is truly surprised that Kanye would let his wife leave the house like that. Unlike Bianca's raunchy wardrobe, Kim was asked to change her outfits if Kanye felt she was showing too much skin, with the artist heavily influencing her fashion choices during their seven-year marriage. Last year, his ex-wife Kim Kardashian reportedly warned Kanye to tell Bianca to cover up and refrain from wearing her infamously-scandalous outfits around their children; Kim and Kanye seen in 2019 'Kanye did the same thing he is doing with Bianca to Kim throughout their marriage,' the source continued. The difference is that when Kanye dressed Kim, he was respected as a person as an artist. 'Unfortunately, Kim knows what Bianca is going through but she feels Bianca should have known what she was getting into. The billionaire SKIMS founder talked openly about Kanyes influence over her fashion choices throughout their relationship. In a 2018 interview with W Magazine, she said: 'I always thought I had really good style until I met my husband, and he told me that I had the worst style.' And in an episode of Keeping Up with The Kardashians, she said: 'Kanye has always dressed me. In the early 2000s, he would literally just send me random emails with all these looks and what my style should be.' When Kim disagreed with her husband's advice, he told her: 'You are my wife, and it affects me when pictures are too sexy.' Kanye previously criticized Kims SKIMS brand for being 'overly sexualized.She also revealed that he disapproved of her 2019 Thierry Mugler Met Gala dress, branding her corset a form of underwear the night before the event. Lizzie Cundy has lifted the lid on the not so glamorous life of a Bond girl, following her appearance in 1995's Goldeneye. The former WAG and TV personality, 56, recalled her experience on the set exclusively with MailOnline, which she described as 'hell'. In the movie, which was Pierce Brosnan's first outing as 007, Lizzie appeared as Famke Janssen's body double in the famous sauna scene where the character Xenia Onatopp tried to strangle Bond with her legs. Lizzie revealed how Pierce, now 71, who was wrapped only in a towel, was the 'hairiest man she'd ever seen' and joked she feared getting 'fur balls'. 'He was a lovely bloke, so funny and we got on like a house on fire, but so hairy, like an otter'. She recalled landing the role at the very last minute due to her having the same measurements as the Danish actress, but spent much of her time waiting in a tiny trailer which 'smelt of fish'. Lizzie Cundy, 51, has lifted the lid on the not so glamorous life of a Bond girl, following her appearance in 1995's Goldeneye In the movie, which was Pierce Brosnan 's first outing as 007, Lizzie appeared as Famke Janssen 's body double in the famous sauna scene (pictured in the movie) Lizzie revealed how Pierce, now 71, who was wrapped only in a towel was the 'hairiest man she'd ever seen' and joked she feared getting 'fur balls' (pictured 1997) If that wasn't bad enough, once on set Lizzie said Pierce's stand-in also stank and she was forced to endure the stench during rehearsals before the star arrived. She laughed: 'I had to do the practicing with this smelly man, who had body odour, it was awful. It wasn't glamorous it wasn't well paid'. Despite Bond's million pound budgets Lizzie revealed that she only received 250 for her work on the film, but was thankfully invited for 1997's Tomorrow Never Dies. 'It sounds glamorous but there was lots of waiting around and films aren't always cracked up to be'. Lizzie previously revealed that very embarrassing moment that happened to her during her second film appearance with Pierce. In a 2021 Instagram post she recalled how he caught her and a friend 'in his trailer using his toothbrush' while on set of Tomorrow Never Dies. She revealed that thankfully he took in good faith and was 'charming, funny with an Irish twinkle in his eye. Lizzie, who is a trained actress having attended Londons Central School of Speech and Drama, wrote: 'Thankfully he took it all in good spirit and we all laughed and went for a drink!'. She recalled landing the role at the last minute due to her having the same measurements as the actress (pictured) but spent most of the time waiting in a trailer which 'smelt of fish'. If that wasn't bad enough, once on set Lizzie said Pierce's stand in also stunk and she was forced to endure the stench during rehearsals before the star arrived Despite Bond's million pound budgets Lizzie revealed she only received 250, but was thankfully invited back to work on 1997's Tomorrow Never Dies (pictured, right) It comes after fellow Bond star Rosamund Pike revealed she was 'so mortified' during her own saucy secen with Pierce in 2002's Die Another Die, when she was only 22 and he was 48. The British 46-year-old performed her first onscreen sex scene when her MI6 double agent seduced James Bond at an Iceland palace where they had a love-making session inside an epic swan-shaped bed. 'I discovered things like nipple covers, and all the taping,' Rosamund recalled on David Tennant's podcast. 'We have this clinch, and then we separate, and I look at this body tape and the nipple covers and they're covered in hair. And I think, "Oh my God, I'm waxing Pierce's chest!" I was so mortified! I thought, "Oh my God, he's so brave, and I'm pulling off his chest hair with every embrace."' The awkward on-set moment wasn't as bad as Pike first imagined though as 'it took a couple of takes to realize it was not him. It was the fake fur of the rugs adorning the swan bed. I literally thought I was waxing the poor man's chest!' The Emmy winner called Die Another Day 'a magic carpet of an experience' as her first scene was opposite Dame Judi Dench, she got to sword fight Halle Berry, and even flirted with Madonna in her cameo during a fencing scene. Advertisement Lindsay Lohan ensured all eyes would be on her as she accepted the Vanguard Award at CinemaCon in Las Vegas on Thursday. The 38-year-old actress has been hitting headlines lately with her youthful makeover and showed off her stunning visage as she attended the ceremony. She was dressed to impress for her big moment, slipping into an off the shoulder black gown that clung to her hourglass curves. She added to the glamour with a diamond necklace, while her freshly-dyed blonde locks were styled in old Hollywood waves. Lindsay was at the event to pick up the Vanguard Award - a prestigious honor recognizing individuals who have made a significant impact on the film industry - and promote her upcoming movie with Jamie Lee Curtis. Accepting her award, she shared: 'This award means more than you know to me. I've grown up in this industry and I'm so proud to still be doing what I love. There's nothing like the magic of cinema.' Lindsay Lohan ensured all eyes would be on her as she accepted the Vanguard Award at CinemaCon in Las Vegas on Thursday The 38-year-old actress has been hitting headlines lately with her youthful makeover and showed off her stunning visage as she attended the ceremony Freakier Friday, the hotly anticipated sequel to the beloved 2003 family-comedy Freaky Friday is due out in theaters on August 8, 2025. As well as modeling a glamorous black gown, the star also slipped into a lavender mini dress and an emerald green frock with ruffle details. Lindsay has been wowing followers with her new look of late, and last year board-certified surgeon Dr. Jonathan Sykes weighed in on what cosmetic tweaks the actress could have undergone. He suggested that she may have treated 'pigmentary and some textural issues' in her skin to achieve her fresh look. 'Her skin has no dyschromias, which are pigmented areas on the skin, round spots and so forth,' he observed. Dr. Sykes also said that she may have had some Botox, but stressed that if so, it had been done in a subtle way and not 'overdone.' He added that it's 'likely' that Lohan had some form of rhinoplasty to get the 'perfect' nose: 'Although her nose was not unattractive, the fact that it looks perfect in recent photos suggests that she's had something done to it.' Lindsay has not confirmed any of the speculation. She was dressed to impress for her big moment, slipping into an off the shoulder black gown that clung to her hourglass curves She shared: 'This award means more than you know to me. I've grown up in this industry and I'm so proud to still be doing what I love. There's nothing like the magic of cinema' Lindsay has been wowing followers with her new look, and last year surgeons weighed in on what cosmetic tweaks the actress could have undergone (L) November 2024, (R) seen in 2012 During Thursday's event, her 66-year-old Freakier Friday co-star Jamie commanded attention in a three-piece, warm, yellow pantsuit. The veteran entertainer teased her cleavage as she layered a vest underneath her double-breasted blazer, which she kept buttoned. Lindsay shared with People about the upcoming iteration of the movie: 'We can't begin to tell you how amazing it's been to be back in Ana and Tessa's shoes.' Meanwhile, Jamie chimed in, 'Yes, but we don't spend that much time in those shoes actually since this Friday is even freakier because this time we have doubled the swaps.' Lindsay teased that moviegoers will 'get to see Jamie and I take on all new personalities because we find the bodies we have swapped with our teenage counterparts.' And she recalled that it was 'really, really exciting and fun to experience.' She shared a selfie from CinemaCon with her 15.6 million followers this week, appearing alongside Jamie as well as co-stars Julia Butters, 15, and Sophia Hammons, 18. 'My Beautiful Freakies. Getting together with my Freakier Friday crew is always full of fun!' she captioned the post, collecting over 230,000 likes. Curtis also said that the movie will be best enjoyed in theaters: 'We made this movie this year with love, a lot of love, and we made it specifically to be experienced on the big screen and with a big crowd. The only way you should see a Freaky Friday movie.' Lindsay also modeled a lavender mini dress that showed off her long legs as she promoted her upcoming movie, Freakier Friday The Mean Girls sensation flashed her megawatt smile with co-star Jamie Lee Curtis on stage It was 17 years ago that the late Jade Goody sat on the floor in the diary room of Big Brother and broke down in tears as she was told by her doctor she had cervical cancer. And now brave Trisha Goddard has signed up for Celebrity Big Brother despite having incurable stage four breast cancer after she said: 'I must keep enjoying what I have always enjoyed'. The ITV darling, who hosted the popular daytime chat show Trisha from 1998 to 2004, announced in February last year that the cancer she was diagnosed with in 2008 and eventually beat, had sadly returned. The mother of two daughters Billie and Madison, who relocated to the US in 2010, devastatingly revealed the cancer 'is not going away' and keeping the secret was 'becoming a burden'. But, while she was 'nervous' about revealing the cancer's re-emergence, 'It needed to be done'. She received the terminal diagnosis 20 months ago and has since said: 'With that knowledge comes grief and fear. But I must keep enjoying what I have always enjoyed.' Legendary TV host Trisha Goddard will bravely enter the Celebrity Big Brother house on Monday despite her terminal stage four breast cancer diagnosis The former chat show host revealed back in February last year that her incurable cancer had returned after cells were found in her hip following a fall, and she is undergoing life-prolonging treatment Trisha will enter the Celebrity Big Brother on Monday night alongside the American actor Mickey Rourke and EastEnders legend, Patsy Palmer, and could be in there for up to three weeks. The mother-of-two has secondary breast cancer - meaning the disease started in the breast and spread to another part of the body - for which there is treatment but no cure. ITV have been contacted by MailOnline to ask if producers will provide any extra care for the television star while she is in the Big Brother house. The London-born TV star originally shared her diagnosis on Instagram, where she shared a picture of her cropped back hair and captioned it: 'Like my new hairstyle - I can't hide it anymore.' Prompted by a concern that if the news spread about her terminal breast cancer, 'People will start seeing me as a frail little thing,' she has spent the past year speaking openly about her battle and is expected to do so in the Big Brother house. In an interview with Hello magazine, she said: 'I'm a journalist; I don't want to be the "the story". I don't want to be interviewing someone and for them to say to me: 'I'm so sorry'.' Her secondary cancer was discovered by accident after she broke her femur during a fall and a doctor discovered her damaged right hip was 'full of cancerous cells'. Trisha is best known for her self-titled chat show on ITV - before its move to Channel 5 - as well as its US version. Trisha in 1987 started out her television career at ABC as the 'new anchor girl' reporting on work out bikes and weight machines, she went on to have a celebrated 40-year career in TV At the Pride of Britain Awards in 2009, a year after she was first diagnosed with cancer Trisha Goddard in 2023, a year after doctors told her the breast cancer diagnosis was incurable She now hosts on Talk and occasionally appears on Good Morning Britain and lives in Connecticut with her fourth husband, Allen, who she married in 2022. She has twin daughters from her second long-term partner, Mark Grieve, the youngest of which identifies as non-binary. In 2008, Jade Goody appeared on the Indian version of Big Brother in a bid to redeem herself from her racism row with Bollywood actress, Shilpa Shetty in 2007. But the mother-of-two was forced to abandon the show and fly back to the UK just two days in after receiving the devastating news she had cervical cancer. Producers decided to broadcast the heartbreaking moment she sat in tears on the phone to doctors in London, to the outrage of viewers 10 years after her death. Jade died from cervical cancer on March 22, 2009, seven months after her diagnosis, which came while she was on Big Brother India. She is pictured in January 2009 In a clip from the show, Jade said: 'I had no idea that that conversation was being filmed... it was not right' (pictured January 2009) Jade's cancer spread to her bowel, liver and groin and she died on Mother's Day in March 2009. She left behind two sons, Bobby and Freddy, now 15 and 14 The moment she shared the devastating news with her housemates before leaving the show was also aired on Indian TV. In a clip from the Channel 4 show, Jade said: 'I had no idea that that conversation was being filmed... it was not right.' She said it felt 'lonely' to feel like she was the last to learn of her diagnosis and she 'just wanted to be cuddled'. Jade made the decision to continue with her reality show filming and work commitments to make money for her young sons Bobby and Freddie while raising awareness and raising thousands of pounds for cervical cancer. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world and affects more than two MILLION women a year Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Each year in the UK there are more than 55,000 new cases, and the disease claims the lives of 11,500 women. In the US, it strikes 266,000 each year and kills 40,000. But what causes it and how can it be treated? What is breast cancer? It comes from a cancerous cell which develops in the lining of a duct or lobule in one of the breasts. When the breast cancer has spread into surrounding tissue it is called 'invasive'. Some people are diagnosed with 'carcinoma in situ', where no cancer cells have grown beyond the duct or lobule. Most cases develop in those over the age of 50 but younger women are sometimes affected. Breast cancer can develop in men, though this is rare. Staging indicates how big the cancer is and whether it has spread. Stage 1 is the earliest stage and stage 4 means the cancer has spread to another part of the body. The cancerous cells are graded from low, which means a slow growth, to high, which is fast-growing. High-grade cancers are more likely to come back after they have first been treated. What causes breast cancer? A cancerous tumour starts from one abnormal cell. The exact reason why a cell becomes cancerous is unclear. It is thought that something damages or alters certain genes in the cell. This makes the cell abnormal and multiply 'out of control'. Although breast cancer can develop for no apparent reason, there are some risk factors that can increase the chance, such as genetics. What are the symptoms of breast cancer? The usual first symptom is a painless lump in the breast, although most are not cancerous and are fluid filled cysts, which are benign. The first place that breast cancer usually spreads to is the lymph nodes in the armpit. If this occurs you will develop a swelling or lump in an armpit. How is breast cancer diagnosed? Initial assessment: A doctor examines the breasts and armpits. They may do tests such as a mammography, a special x-ray of the breast tissue which can indicate the possibility of tumours. Biopsy: A biopsy is when a small sample of tissue is removed from a part of the body. The sample is then examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells. The sample can confirm or rule out cancer. If you are confirmed to have breast cancer, further tests may be needed to assess if it has spread. For example, blood tests, an ultrasound scan of the liver or a chest X-ray. How is breast cancer treated? Treatment options which may be considered include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone treatment. Often a combination of two or more of these treatments are used. Surgery: Breast-conserving surgery or the removal of the affected breast depending on the size of the tumour. Radiotherapy: A treatment which uses high energy beams of radiation focused on cancerous tissue. This kills cancer cells, or stops them from multiplying. It is mainly used in addition to surgery. Chemotherapy: A treatment of cancer by using anti-cancer drugs which kill cancer cells, or stop them from multiplying. Hormone treatments: Some types of breast cancer are affected by the 'female' hormone oestrogen, which can stimulate the cancer cells to divide and multiply. Treatments which reduce the level of these hormones, or prevent them from working, are commonly used in people with breast cancer. How successful is treatment? The outlook is best in those who are diagnosed when the cancer is still small, and has not spread. Surgical removal of a tumour in an early stage may then give a good chance of cure. The routine mammography offered to women between the ages of 50 and 71 means more breast cancers are being diagnosed and treated at an early stage. For more information visit breastcancernow.org or call its free helpline on 0808 800 6000 Advertisement Get all Daily Mail Australia's latest MAFS stories on WhatsApp here Advertisement His relationship with Jacqui Burfoot has proven to be the most tumultuous on the current season of Married At First Sight. And Ryan Donnelly had the chance to blow off some steam on Friday when he took to the gym to hone his chiseled form. The 36-year-old took to Instagram to share an insight into his workout regimen, with a video that showed the reality star working on his upper body strength. Sitting at what appeared to be a rowing machine, Ryan looked in his element as get got a few reps in. Ryan's bulging biceps were on full display in his light grey tank top as he eagerly worked up a sweat. He could be seen breathing hard through the burn during the workout, seemingly oblivious to the goings on around him. Married At First Sight star Ryan Donnelly had the chance to blow off some steam on Friday when he took to the gym to hone his chiseled form Ryan was in the gym again on Thursday, taking the time to share a glimpse of his washboard abs to fans. Posing in what appeared to be the gym's change room, Ryan held his T-shirt up to reveal his toned and taut torso in the mirror selfie. He jokingly captioned the enviable snap with the hashtag #fattie. Ryan's gym habits were one of many things his ex bride Jacqui Burfoot placed under the microscope during their rocky marriage. He came under fire after he threw a tantrum when Jacqui, 29, told the brides that he refuses to have sex before a gym session to 'preserve his testosterone' - despite previously sharing intimate details about their bedroom life with the grooms. In a chat with Daily Mail Australia, Ryan hit back at his portrayal on the show, slamming Jacqui's decision to reveal private details, calling it 'pure hate bait.' Despite the drama it caused, Ryan admitted he was baffled by how much airtime the conversation received. 'Honestly, watching it back, I thought it was boring. Breaking news: Stop everything- husband prefers sex after working out. Good lord. What a revelation,' he said sarcastically. The 36-year-old took to Instagram to share an insight into his workout regimen, with a video that showed the reality star working on his upper body strength Ryan was in the gym again on Thursday, taking the time to share a glimpse of his washboard abs to fans But while he brushed off the scandal as ridiculous, Ryan didn't hold back in criticising Jacqui for bringing up their private conversations on national television. 'We're in one of the most stunning, memorable places in Australia, and Jacqui wants to bring that garbage up? The other girls' sex lives must have been vanilla as f**k if that became the main topic,' he scoffed. Ryan also suggested that Jacqui deliberately framed the story to make him look bad. 'What do we really think her motivation was? It wasn't curiosity or a genuine desire for insight. It was pure hate bait. To make me appear selfish and neglectful.' Despite defending himself, Ryan did acknowledge the hypocrisy of his previous comments about Jacqui's bedroom skills during intimacy week. 'I can easily recognise the hypocrisy of mine in the context of the intimacy comments. Oh, Ryan, you can't get mad at her because you dropped some juicy details with the boys,' he admitted. There's certainly going to be no shortage of drama when MAFS concludes over two nail-biting nights from this Sunday. With the fate of all couples now decided, it's all over bar the shouting, but if the dramatic teaser for the upcoming reunion, is anything to go by, there is certainly still some shouting left in this cast yet. Ryan's gym habits were one of many things his ex bride Jacqui Burfoot placed under the microscope during their rocky marriage He came under fire after he threw a tantrum when Jacqui, 29, told the brides that he refuses to have sex before a gym session to 'preserve his testosterone' - despite previously sharing intimate details about their bedroom life with the grooms Much of the trailer centers on series 'villain' Jacqui Burfoot, 29, and her shock revelation that she has started a relationship with groom Clint Rice, 43. It appears that the new relationship and Jacqui's protracted war with ex-groom Ryan Donnelly, 36, continues unabated at the dinner table. With the teaser showing Ryan menacingly holding his 250-year old Japanese katana, it's pretty obvious he's come to do battle. And he's not afraid to drop bombs, either, spilling the beans on the timeline of Jacqui and Clint's relationship. 'You guys started this whole connection when we were still married,' Ryan claims, much to the shock of everyone at the table. It doesn't take long for Ryan's presence to trigger Jacqui who can be seen telling her ex to 'zip it' as Ryan smiles and shakes his head. This doesn't seem to sit well with Jacqui who dials the volume up more than a few notches. 'I tried my a*** off,' she yells at Ryan from across the table. 'My literal a***.' Married At First Sight continues Sunday at 7pm on Channel Nine Actor Kim Soo Hyun is under fire following his team's explanation regarding an alleged past relationship with actress Kim Sae Ron, who was a minor at the time. The controversy escalated after viral photos resurfaced, showing the two together, including one depicting a soju bottle during a visit to Kim Soo Hyun's home in June 2018. Kim Soo Hyun's representatives confirmed that the meeting took place but denied any inappropriate relationship, stating that his family was present. "The visit did occur, but it was a casual gathering, and his family was also there," his team said in a statement. However, netizens were quick to express skepticism and outrage, questioning why a minor was present at his home late at night. "So he really made a minor cook Spicy Chicken Stew, and it was really at 11 p.m.? LOL, you bastard," one commenter wrote in a viral online forum post. Another added, "Even if the family was there, it's a problem. If they weren't, it's still a problem." Critics also questioned why alcohol was involved, arguing that the explanation only raised more concerns. "Seriously, if they weren't in a relationship, then why were they drinking soju together? Was their family there too?" another comment read. The controversy stems from claims made by Garo Sero Institute, which has released multiple photos alleging a romantic relationship between Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron when she was underage. Kim Soo Hyun's team has refuted these claims, stating that some images were either taken when she was already an adult or do not feature him at all. Despite these denials, netizens are still not convinced, and some are now accusing Kim Soo Hyun of grooming. "If they weren't in a romantic relationship, wouldn't that be an even bigger problem? Grooming a minor into believing they're in a relationship and acting like a normal couple?" one commenter wrote. She instantly became a pop culture icon after bursting into the public eye as loudmouthed Page 3 girl, Jordan. Having tried her hand at modelling, singing, presenting, campaigning and reality TV, the glamour model quickly became a household name in Britain. Yet while Katie Price's moniker will ring a bell for both young and old, you would be forgiven for not recognising the star on sight alone, with Katie famously undergoing numerous cosmetic procedures over the years. After two decades in the spotlight, Katie is almost unrecognisable from the naturally pretty teenager who burst on to the modelling scene at the age of 16, with her natural curls and fresh-faced beauty winning her an army of fans. Katie, now 46, has undergone an array of procedures over the years, including rhinoplasty, a silhouette facelift, 3D, veneers, lip fillers and Botox, culminating in her first facelift in 2017. Now, after two decades under the surgeon's scalpel, MailOnline takes a look at the many faces of Katie Price. The many faces of Katie Price: MailOnline takes a look at the star's changing look after two decades of boob jobs, Botox and face lifts 1995 - Barefaced beauty At the age of 17, Katie Price was a fresh-faced natural beauty looking to make it into the world of glamour modelling. At a friend's suggestion, the teenager had professional photographs taken and was quickly snapped up by a modelling agency who landed her a Page 3 slot in The Sun newspaper the following year, sparking the creation of her glamour model alter ego, Jordan. Speaking last year, Katie revealed she was glad that she wasn't exposed to social media at the time as she had 'no idea what Botox was or fillers', otherwise she may have started her tweaks and enhancements at an even earlier age. 1995: At the age of 17, Katie Price was a fresh-faced natural beauty looking to make it into the world of glamour modelling 1998 - First boob job Having just turned 20, the rising glamour model experienced her first taste of cosmetic surgery, boosting her 32B cup breasts to a 32C. The procedure cost 4,500 and it's thought her mum Amy and stepdad Paul helped pay for her to have the procedure. Katie has since spoken out about her decision to go under the knife, admitting she was 'too young' and that she feels sorry for young girls growing up these days in a world of social media and filters. 1998: Having just turned 20, Katie experienced her first taste of cosmetic surgery, boosting her 32B cup breasts to a 32C 1999 - Second and third boob job Despite having only just increased her breast size, Katie opted to have two more procedures the following year at the age of 21. Katie boosted her bust from a C cup to a D cup and just a few months later went up again to a F cup. Katie has previously claimed that she has only paid for two of her boob jobs over the course of her career - it is not known if these were the ones. 1999: Despite having only just increased her breast size, Katie opted to have two more procedures at the age of 21 2001 - Lip fillers At the age of 21, Katie had her first cosmetic procedure on her face, opting for lip fillers. While the glamour model did not confirm the rumours at the time, she was seen sporting a noticeably fuller pout while out enjoying the party scene. Her overall look had also started drastically transforming, with the model sporting dramatic false lashes, bright lipstick and pale hair extensions. 2001: At the age of 21, Katie had her first cosmetic procedure on her face, opting for lip fillers 2004 - Botox Aged 26, Katie began to experiment with Botox injections that relax the muscles in your face to smooth out lines and wrinkles. She made no secret of her love of the procedure, announcing at the time: 'I get my forehead and around my eyes Botoxed every six months and I love it. You can't beat it. It just freezes all the wrinkles and that's what you want.' At the time, Katie insisted she would never take things further and have a facelift, explaining: 'I'd never have a full facelift. I've seen what they can do to people and I don't want to go through that.' 2004: Aged 26, Katie began to experiment with Botox injections that relax the muscles in your face to smooth out lines 2006 - Fourth boob job Katie went under the knife yet again to take her F cup breasts up to a G cup. The glamour model also played around with her overall look and embraced her dark side with a new brunette hairstyle. She also continued to dabble with fillers and Botox. 2006: Katie went under the knife yet again to take her F cup breasts up to a G cup 2007 - First nose job and veneers At the age of 29, Katie took her love of surgery to the next level, undergoing rhinoplasty, a chemical peel and treating herself to a 25,000 set of new veneers. 'Oh my God, it burned like hell!' she said at the time. 'The next day I had this hideous red rash on my chin but two days later there wasn't a single spot left.' Speaking about her nose job at the time, she admitted to liking her original nose, explaining: 'I liked my nose before and now. If I had a cupboard with both noses, I would alternate between them!' 2007:Katie took her love of surgery to the next level, undergoing rhinoplasty, a chemical peel and a 25,000 set of veneers 2008 - Fifth boob job Despite gradually increasingly her bust size over the year, Katie fancied a change on her 30th and brought her bra size back down from an F cup to a C cup. The procedure meant that Katie had returned to the size of her first boob job 10 years prior. Katie's changing shape also coincided with the launch of her first clothing line - an equestrian range. 2008: Despite gradually increasingly her bust size, Katie fancied a change and brought her bra size back down to a C cup 2011 - Sixth boob job Katie's smaller chest didn't last long, and at age 33 she went back under the knife again to boost her bust to an F cup. Katie also underwent body-contouring treatment and cheek and lip fillers. The Loose Women panelist admitted that she loved having her cheeks filled to give her a 'plumper, more youthful look'. 2011: Katie's smaller chest didn't last long, and at age 33 she went back under the knife again to boost her bust to an F cup 2015 - Seventh and eighth boob job Just before appearing on Celebrity Big Brother, the reality star had a botched boob reduction that left her with a hole in her breast and an implant protruding from her flesh. Katie told her shocked housemates: 'Ive got no tits anymore. Theyve gone. Theres not even anything there. If you saw what Im like underneath. The scars gone septic. My whole implant was hanging out on New Years Day.' Shortly after leaving the Big Brother house she underwent corrective surgery and had her implants swapped for a D-cup. 2015: Just before Celebrity Big Brother, the star had a botched boob reduction that left her with a hole in her breast 2016 - Ninth boob job and tattooed makeup Despite her surgery horror the year before, Katie was undeterred and flew to a Brussels clinic to go under the knife yet again, this time settling on a 32GG bust. The reality star also had her eyebrows and lips tattooed, also known as 'permanent make-up', explaining that she prefers to go make-up free on a day-to-day basis. Additionally the star has regular facial treatments, last year sharing a bloodied selfie after having a dermal roller micro-needling treatment, which sees a dermaroller with many tiny needles rolled across into the skin - designed to stimulate cells into regeneration. 2016: Despite her surgery horror the year before, Katie flew to a Brussels clinic to get another boob job, this time a 32GG cup 2017 - First face lift, new veneers and 10th boob job Despite insisting she would never have a face lift and could rely on Botox, Katie went back on her word undergoing a 'Silhouette' face lift. The procedure is designed to lift a sagging cheeks and blurred jawline, using 'sutures' implanted under the skin to sculpt features. However, Katie was soon spotted with puffy features, revealing that she suffered an allergic reaction to anesthetic penicillin after having further work on her veneers. She also had her breast implants reduced from 1000ml implants to 795ml. 2017: Despite insisting she would never have a face lift and could rely on Botox, Katie went back on her word 2018 - Second face lift Katie claimed her first face lift had been a botched job and went back under the knife the following year aged 40 to correct it. She said at the time 'I need to get my face re-corrected after surgeon has totally f**ked my face up', admitting it had He agent added: 'She had the thread and it really quite distorted her look. She got a lot of backlash, a lot of negative press, a lot of trolling, everyone saying shed taken it too far, when actually it was a job that had not gone to plan.' 2018: Katie claimed her first face lift had been a botched job and went back under the knife the following year aged 40 2019 - Third face lift, boob job first Brazilian bum lift and 11th boob job Katie jetted to Turkey to overhaul her entire look with a full body transformation. The reality star opted for a face, eye and eyelid lift, Brazilian bum lift along with a tummy tuck. Just three months later she returned to the clinic and opted for another boob job, going back down to a D cup. 2019: Katie jetted to Turkey to overhaul her look with a face, eye and eyelid lift, Brazilian bum lift along with a tummy tuck 2020 - 12th boob job and another set of veneers Katie returned to Turkey to have another set of veneers and revealed her real teeth had been reduced to stubs as she flashed a smile on her YouTube channel. The mother-of-five then jetted to Belgium to correct botched surgery on her breasts, saying her surgeon was utterly shocked by the 'awful' previous procedure. Katie said: 'They looked deformed, they were absolutely awful. That's the first time I've gone to a different surgeon. I had to go back to Frank with my head down, ashamed that I'd been to another clinic.' 2020: Katie returned to Turkey to have another set of veneers then jetted to Belgium to correct a botched boob job 2021 - Liposuction, eye and lid lifts and 13th boob job Amid the Covid pandemic, Katie jetted off to then red-list Turkey for a complete cosmetic surgery overhaul, undergoing full body liposuction, eye and lip lifts, liposuction under her chin, and fat injected into her bum. The reality star also visited Belgium to have her 13th boob job as well as full body liposuction with bum fat removal. The plastic surgery - performed by Dr Frank Plovier - came just five days ahead of the glamour model's sentencing for her shocking drink-drive crash. 2021: Katie jetted to Turkey for a complete cosmetic surgery overhaul, undergoing full body liposuction, eye and lip lifts 2022 - Another brow and eye lift Katie secretly jetted back to Belgium at the beginning of 2022 for an eye and brow lift and had been concealing her new look with her head in a bandage. Dr Judy Todd, an aesthetic doctor at Clinica Medica in Glasgow, said: 'It appears like she's had a face lift, temporal brow lift, and possibly an upper blepharoplasty.' It was reported last month that Katie plans to travel to Turkey imminently for yet more plastic surgery, amid claims she wanted to get some tweaks in after being unhappy with her latest work. Sian Dellar, Brow Specialist and Founder of Sian Dellar Permanent Makeup Clinic, added: 'Katie's eyebrows, like the rest of her, have changed lots over the years! 'Back in the 90s she had a very thin over plucked brow which was the fashion at the time, and today she has an extremely thick and unnatural looking brow. 'Currently it seems the face or eye lift that shes had have pulled her brows outward which looks unnatural and makes the brows appear almost stretched. 'Of course, as with any enhancement, its personal preference but we recommend not going too many shades darker, and keeping the shape as natural looking as possible and work to create or enhance brows to frame the face. 'Katies choice to have them so thick and dark and in that unusual positioning means they dominate her face and are the first thing the eye is drawn to. I would love to see Katie take her brows back to 2015/2016 when the fuller brow became a big trend. She got it right then and they framed her face well.' 2022: Katie secretly jetted back to Belgium for an eye and brow lift and is planning to to travel to Turkey for more surgery 2023 - 16th and 'biggest ever' boob job It's not clear if Katie lost track of the number of breast augmentations or opted to keep some of her surgery private but by 2023 it emerged she'd undergone her 16th boob job, two years after claiming to be on her 13th. The star went under the knife in a bid to have the 'biggest in Britain' and was subsequently pictured being wheeled into surgery at the Be Clinic in Belgium. She is said to have wanted even bigger breasts, opting for 2120 CC implants in a bid to boost her already large bust size. Katie told OK! magazine of her boobs: 'I love them. They healed really quickly and they didn't hurt at all. That probably doesn't help. Because I heal quickly, it doesn't put me off and I have more. 'I would go bigger as well and I will eventually. I just love having big boobs and a small body. I've always loved that look. In my eyes, if I'm having a boob job, I want them to look fake, I don't want them to look natural. I don't like the natural look. 'I just like that old-school American Playboy pin-up look. When I have surgery, that is what I'm striving for. If I could look like my airbrushed pictures, that would be amazing. But that's impossible to achieve.' 2023: It's not clear if Katie lost track of the number of breast augmentations or opted to keep some of her surgery private but by 2023 it emerged she'd undergone her 16th boob job, two years after claiming to be on her 13th 2024 - MORE facial surgery In July 2024 Katie confirmed she is travelling to Turkey for facial surgery, to be filmed for a new documentary, after failing to attend a bankruptcy hearing. The former glamour model was absent at a scheduled 760,000 bankruptcy court hearing having flown overseas for her latest cosmetic procedure. A warrant was subsequently issued, with Katie admitting she's 'doing the best she can' to rectify her financial issues after receiving 'very clear warnings' that she needed to attend court. She manages to look cool whatever she does and Kate Moss pulled it off once again when she was pictured driving down Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles on Thursday. The world-famous supermodel, 51, enjoyed a cigarette on her drive and enjoyed the sunshine as she soaked up the rays in the convertible. Prices of vintage Buick convertibles can vary widely, with the costs ranging from $10,000 to more than $100,000. Dressed to impress for the ride, Kate radiated glamour in a tan faux fur coat paired with high-waisted blue jeans. She completed her chic look with strappy sandals, dark sunglasses, and a black handbag. After hopping out of her car she was greeted by friends, with the group standing on the sidewalk for a brief catch up. Kate Moss ensured she sped around the United States in style on Thursday as she was pictured driving down Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles The world-famous supermodel, 51, enjoyed the sunshine as she soaked up the rays in the convertible car Kate also enjoyed a cigarette on her drive, puffing away as she pulled up to meet her pals Kate's time across the pond followed on from her doing the rounds for the various Fashion Weeks last month. While she was a FROW stalwart for the big shows, she did spark concern with her appearance at the Isabel Marant presentation in Paris when she was filmed looking 'fraught' and 'on edge'. In a clip shared by publications including Elle and Lewis Magazine, Kate moved back and forth in her chair as she speaks to other fashion goers at the event and poses for photographers. She was seen hugging a woman sat behind her before being heard saying 'let me just do this', as she turned to face forward so the picture takers can get the best shot. Kate sat beside British fashion photographer David Sims, 58, who has worked with her since the Nineties. But fans of the Croydon-born model responded to the video, which had been circulating on Instagram and TikTok, with their concerns over her 'frantic' appearance. TikTok users wrote: 'She's giving me anxiety just watching her', 'I feel like I can't breathe watching this' while a third remarked: 'I feel sad every time I see this.'; 'Why is she so fidgety, this just makes me anxious.' Another questioned why Elle magazine shared the clip, saying: 'Why did they post this? Kate is seemingly not okay. Still pretty though.' Other commenters believed Kate was only moving frantically so the photographers could get her best angle. They mused: 'To be fair, every time I've seen her pose for paps, she's always "snapped" into shot, so yeah she's moving a bit strange but it's normal for her.' 'She doesn't want to smile for cameras but smiles at her friends before 'the look' at the camera... People just want to hate.' Dressed to impress for the ride, Kate radiated glamour in a tan faux fur coat paired with high-waisted blue jeans She completed her chic look with strappy sandals, dark sunglasses, and a black handbag Prices of vintage Buick convertibles can vary widely, with the costs ranging from $10,000 to more than $100,000 After hopping out of her car she was greeted by friends, with the group standing on the sidewalk for a brief catch up Kate was enjoying some rare time off amid her busy schedule (pictured in her latest Charlotte Tilbury beauty campaign) Last month, Kate's ex Jefferson Hack announced he is expecting his first child with wife Anna Cleveland. The CEO of Dazed Media tied the knot with Anna in a romantic ceremony at Oakley Court in Windsor in 2023. Taking to Instagram, Anna revealed she is expecting a baby with the book editor as she shared professional snaps. Displaying her growing baby bump, Anna wrote: '36 years today and 36 weeks pregnant. "How you love is who you are" . 'Thank you dear friend @guillaumethomaspari for the photos.' Jefferson started dating supermodel Kate in 2001 after interviewing her for Dazed, with the pair welcoming their daughter Lila in 2002. They split two years later. The businessman moved on with American model Anna and the pair married two years ago. In December, it was reported that Kate had ended her nine-year relationship with aristocrat Nikolai Von Bismarck. Last month, Kate sparked concern among her fanbase after being filmed looking 'fraught' and 'on edge' as she sat front row at Paris Fashion Week Last month, Kate's ex Jefferson Hack announced he is expecting his first child with wife Anna Cleveland (pictured in 2022) In December, it was reported that Kate had ended her nine-year relationship with aristocrat Nikolai Von Bismarck, who is 13 years her junior A source revealed that Kate, who's 13 years Nikolai's senior, felt their lives were going in 'different directions' and they wanted different things for the future. Following the couple's split, Kate started a new chapter celebrating her 51st birthday at A-list restaurant China Tang at The Dorchester before continuing her night until the early hours at The Globe in London's Notting Hill. Kate, who's still as in demand as she was in her 90s heyday, has sat front row at numerous Fashion Week shows this year including Stella McCartney in London, New York's Donna Karan and Dior's fall menswear show, which took place in Paris. The mother-of-one has been supporting her model daughter Lila during the busy fashion month as she starred in several designer showcases. Lila, who walked the Burberry and Stella McCartney shows, also attended several elegant dinner parties alongside her famous mother including east London designer Aaron Esh's stylish event, which took place last month. Advertisement Danielle Lloyd showed off the results of her skin cancer surgery as she detailed her health battle. The model, 41, revealed in February she had been diagnosed with cancer after noticing a change to one of her moles. In a video update on Thursday, the mother-of-five revealed that she'd now undergone surgery as she shared snaps of the healing process and revealed she was giving up sunbeds for good. Filming herself heading to a spray tan she revealed she was feeling 'nervous' but that having skin cancer had 'changed her outlook on life'. She explained: 'I used to be a total sun worshiper, never really thinking about the risk of skin cancer. Sunbeds before holidays? Absolutely! 'But now, Ive decided its better to fake the glow because my health and being there for my kids are what truly matter. Im still waiting on the results from my second operation, but Im keeping my spirits up and pledging to keep my skin safe from those pesky UV rays in the future!' Danielle Lloyd, 41, shared photographs of her skin cancer surgery scars as she issued an emotional health update in an Instagram post on Thursday following her shock diagnosis In the video montage, Danielle revealed a picture of her scars after the mole removal as she shared snaps of the healing process and revealed she was giving up sunbeds for good Danielle also showcased her fresh new tan after ditching sunbeds for spray tans In the video montage, Danielle revealed a picture of her scars after the mole removal as well as her fresh new tan after ditching sunbeds for spray tans. Danielle shared a tearful video to Instagram in February which she revealed she had been diagnosed with cancer after noticing a change to one of her moles. She then detailed the emotional moment she told her eldest sons Archie, 14, George, 13, and Harry, 11 - who she welcomed with her ex-husband Jamie O'Hara - about her diagnosis. Danielle revealed she hasn't told her two younger children Ronnie, seven, and Autumn, three - who she shares with her husband Michael O'Neill - because they wouldn't understand. 'I told the older three but not the younger two. Ronnie is at an age where he wouldn't really understand, he'd hear that word and think I was going to die,' she told Closer. 'It was difficult telling the older boys, Harry asked me if my hair was going to fall out. 'It's hard because they're still young, so I don't know if they fully understand - which is a good thing because I don't want to put a strain on them.' Danielle also recalled the moment she was told she had skin cancer after she visited the doctors to get a 'very small' mole on her collarbone checked when she noticed it had changed shape. Danielle also shared snaps of her moles that turned out to be cancerous and had to be removed Filming herself heading to a spray tan she revealed she was feeling 'nervous' but that having skin cancer had 'changed her outlook on life'. She explained: 'I used to be a total sun worshiper, never really thinking about the risk of skin cancer' The TV personality said she knew something was wrong when the doctors called her asking her to come in and told how she broke down in tears upon hearing the news. 'I was trying to hold it together, but then I just broke down, I was just so shocked,' she admitted. Danielle said her husband Michael was equally as shocked but has been very supportive throughout the scary ordeal. She warned others not to ignore the warning signs, admitting she didn't think she was at risk of skin cancer because of her 'olive skin' before doing further research. Danielle broke the news of her skin cancer diagnosis in an emotional video shared to her Instagram Stories last month. Struggling to hold back the tears, she said: 'I don't really know how to say this and I didn't know whether to come on and say this but I feel like I have to raise awareness of this kind of thing happening to other people. 'Today I have been diagnosed with a form of skin cancer.' 'I just want to raise awareness for anyone who thinks they've got something funny on their body, they see a mole growing, which is not normal - please please please go to your doctor because honestly, you just never know,' she went on. The star said she'd been 'really shocked' by what she'd been told but went on to praise the Macmillan nurses at the hospital for their support. Danielle told her eldest sons Archie, 14, George, 13, and Harry, 11 about her diagnosis, but didn't tell her younger kids Ronnie, seven, and Autumn, three (all pictured with her husband Michael O'Neill) She told her followers she will need an operation to see if her cancer has spread, which she could be waiting up to six weeks for. She has not specified what type of skin cancer she has been diagnosed with. 'Honestly, it's not what I expected today, I suppose it's not what anyone suspects,' she admitted. 'Please guys, look after your skin, stay of sunbeds, wear factor 50 - and just look after yourself because you never know what's going to happen.' It is not the first time Danielle has had a cancer scare as she was rushed to hospital in 2023 after suffering from heavy bleeding. Doctors then discovered she had large cysts on her ovaries, but was thankfully told they were non-cancerous after undergoing a biopsy. She also found a lump in her breast last year and she was given the all-clear in October after a biopsy discovered the lump was benign. Pierce Brosnan has been steadfast in his love for his wife Keely over the years, often gushing over her in interviews and on Instagram. And the actor had an incredible response to a cruel weight jibe aimed at Keely on Facebook, after he explained friends offered to help her lose weight. While Keely, 61, has always wowed beside her husband, 71, she garnered headlines this week after displaying her incredible weight loss at the MobLand premiere in New York City. Keely, who tied the knot with the actor in 2001, displayed her weight loss estimated to be around 7stone in a black, lace mini dress with three-quarter sleeves. However despite her changing appearance, Pierce has always supported his wife after he defended her back in 2022. After the couple celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary back in the August of that year, a cruel post about Keely's weight went viral on Facebook. Pierce Brosnan's incredible response has been revealed after friends made jibe at his wife Keely's weight back in 2022 (pictured at the MobLand premiere last Sunday) Pierce has always supported his wife after he defended her after friends made a cruel jibe at her weight as he said: 'I strongly love every curve of her body' (pictured in 1996) In the post, which has since been deleted trolls compared how her body had changed since first meeting Pierce in 1994. Yet the star made sure to defend his wife as he replied: 'Friends offered her surgery to reduce her weight. But I strongly love every curve of her body. 'She is the most beautiful woman in my eyes. And also because she had our five children.' He continued: 'In the past, I truly loved her for her person, not only for her beauty, and now I'm loving her even more that she is my children's mother. 'And I am very proud of her, and I always seek to be worthy of her love.' Last year, Keely told Vogue: 'I never shy away from my curves. I never hide in baggy clothing.' Pierce then added: 'I love my wife's curves.' Pierce was previously married to Cassandra Harris and adopted her daughter Charlotte and son Christopher when their dad passed away in 1986. And together, they welcomed son Sean in 1983. Charlotte died from ovarian cancer in 2013 at age 41. Just over three years on after Charlotte's tragic passing, Pierce met American journalist Keely while in Mexico. Upon meeting Pierce in Mexico in 1994, Keely told People that she immediately found the Bond actor 'captivating' and that he had a 'mischievous sparkle in his eyes'. Keely displayed her three-digit weight loss in a black, lace mini dress with three-quarter sleeves. She is seen right in 2018 He responded to the now deleted post saying: 'She is the most beautiful woman in my eyes. And also because she had our five children' In the same interview, the actor said of his wife: 'I found a great woman in Keely Shaye. Not if I searched a million times over would I find one as good.' Gushing over how Keely has supported him in his grief for his first wife, he told the Irish Times in 2013: 'Keely has always been kind and compassionate and encouraged me to mourn Cassie. I suppose Keely is my North Star, always looking out for me.' He often shares his love for and devotion to Keely on Instagram where the couple celebrate milestones including anniversaries and birthdays. Celebrating Keely's 60th birthday in September 2023, Pierce penned in his birthday post: 'Sixty roses for my brown eyed girl on her 60th birthday.' Referring to their first meeting he added: 'Forever happy and blessed was I to be sitting there when you walked around the corner early one morning in Cabo San Lucas.' Keely also supported her husband through more immeasurable grief, when his eldest daughter Charlotte died in 2013 from ovarian cancer, the same disease which claimed her mother's life 21 years earlier. She was just 42 years old. He often shares his love for and devotion to Keely on Instagram where the couple celebrate milestones including anniversaries and birthdays Later that year, he told the Irish Mirror how his wife continued to help him through his grief as he said: 'Love is just the most beautiful, joyous feeling. It can come from many places. 'Hopefully the one who is beside you, the one who is there on the pillow beside you in the morning my wife.' He added: 'We seem to do well at being together and being in love and, more importantly, liking each other. The like factor is a great thing. Love cannot burn constantly. 'It's very hard for it to be so intense. But it's wonderful. I tell her I love her everyday. It's important to say that.' Advertisement Jessica Alba is enjoying more fun in the sun as she continues moving on from the end of her marriage to Cash Warren. The Into The Blue star shared snaps from her sun-soaked beach trip, where she enjoyed a boating adventure with her daughter Honor and friends, frolicked on the beach, and explored waterfalls. Newly-single Jessica, 43, spent some much-needed time with her girlfriends, nearly three months after announcing her split from Cash. 'Spring break with mi gente,' she captioned the post, along with several tropical emojis. Jessica kicked off the carousel with a snap of her and her daughter, 16, posing by a massive rock formation. The mother-daughter duo wore matching wide-brim hats and colorful beach looks. Jessica Alba is enjoying a girls' getaway with daughter Honor and friends amid her split from husband Cash Warren A bikini-clad Jessica exuded happiness as she frolicked on the beach Their ocean adventures included a whale sighting, a ride on a jet ski, and a trip into a seaside cave. Jessica exuded happiness in a snap of the bikini-clad star triumphantly throwing her arms into the air as she stood on the beach. While Jessica, who recently traveled to Mexico, did not reveal where she was at, numerous commenters recognized the area as Kauai. Jessica and Cash tied the knot in 2008 and welcomed three children together - daughters Honor and Haven, 13, and son Hayes, seven. In January, Jessica announced that she and her husband had separated after she embarked on a 'journey of self realisation and transformation for years - both as an individual and in partnership with Cash.' Jessica filed for divorce on February 7 and is represented by Laura Wasser, whose celebrity clientele has included such A-list names as Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Kevin Costner and Angelina Jolie. Now, as she and Cash embark on the legal proceedings to dissolve their marriage, Jessica has taken her mind off her woes with another vacation abroad. Although she recently ignited romance rumors with comedy writer Alex Edelman, 35, he was not pictured in the Instagram album she shared from the holiday last week. Jessica shares Honor with her ex Cash The actress enjoyed a boating adventure with Honor and friends No doubt the dissolution of her marriage to Cash is going to get complicated as they have no prenup and there is plenty of money at stake. In 2016, Forbes estimated Alba's net worth was around $340 million due to the success of The Honest Company, which she founded in 2011. Five years later, they retracted the report and said with her '6% stake (including options)' in the brand, she 'would only be worth just under $100 million.' The star enjoyed some much-needed girl time amid her split The group explored a beautiful waterfall While Alba did not reveal where she was currently vacationing, numerous fans noted she was in Kauai Their trip included an exploration into a seaside cave 'That is far less than the $340 million Forbes estimated she was worth when we estimated her stake to be 20% and put her on our 2016 list of America's most successful self-made women,' the publication explained in their correction. Like his wife, Warren has found success as an entrepreneur after launching his underwear and sock company, Pair of Thieves, valued at around $100 million. In January, a legal expert told DailyMail.com that the couple's split could get 'complicated' as various factors come into play. In January, Jessica announced that she and her husband had separated after she embarked on a 'journey of self realisation and transformation for years - both as an individual and in partnership with Cash'; pictured last year The then-couple pictured at a Lakers v. Toronto Raptors game in November 2024 They share daughters Honor, Haven, 13, and son Hayes, seven Alba's money comes not just from her high-profile acting career which includes films such as Into The Blue, Honey and Sin City. But it also is from her success as the founder of Honest Company. The Honest Company, Inc. is a consumer goods company based in Los Angeles and founded by Alba, Christopher Gavigan, and Brian Lee. The company is valued at roughly $640 million. Among their assets is a $10M Beverly Hills mansion that they bought in 2017. Jonah Hill was spotted on a walk with screenwriter Ezra Woods in Los Angeles this week. The You People star, 41, was sporting a new preppy look with a pale pink, long-sleeved shirt and green slacks. But there was something different about Hill. Can you tell what it is? The Moneyball actor was displaying a gold tooth right in the middle of his top row of teeth. It is not clear if it was an overlay or an actual gold tooth. Jonah has yet to comment on his chompers. This comes after news Jonah's film Get Him to the Greek has been re-added to Netflix despite having a string of 'cancelled' cast members. The comedy film, released in 2010, is helmed by a now-disgraced cast which includes the jailed music mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs and alleged sexual assaulter Russell Brand. Jonah Hill was spotted on a walk with screenwriter Ezra Woods in Los Angeles this week Jonah himself is also among the canceled cast members of the film after his ex-girlfriend Sarah Brady released text message from him in 2023. Hill's ex alleged in a series of Instagram posts that he would 'gaslight' and 'manipulate' her into removing photos of herself surfing in a swimsuit, according to Page Six. While she didn't accuse him of being physically abusive, she did make a screen recording of a message he allegedly sent her stating that some of her Instagram pictures were inappropriate. In the purported message, the Don't Look Up star reportedly requested that she remove photos of her 'a** in a thong.' Hill did not publicly comment on the allegations at the time with DailyMail.com previously reaching out to his representatives. The rollout of damning statements against the movie producer began with an Instagram Stories post Brady shared with the caption, 'F*** it.' The screenshot showed two messages alleged to be from Jonah on December 2, 2021. The lengthy initial text apparently from Jonah included a list of unacceptable behaviors from Sarah if they were to be together romantically. The You People star, 41, was dressed casually in a pale pink, long sleeved shirt and green pants But there was something different about Hill he displayed a gold tooth right in the middle of his top row of teeth It isn't clear if it was an overlay or an actual gold tooth and Jonah hasn't opened up about the change to his chompers Jonah's film Get Him to the Greek has been re-added to Netflix despite having a string of 'cancelled' cast members. Seen here in 2019 Hill allegedly mentioned things including 'surfing with men,' 'inappropriate friendships with men,' and 'posting pictures of yourself in a bathing suit' that were off limits for his then-girlfriend. He additionally stated that if Sarah 'needed' to 'model,' 'post sexual pictures,' or maintain friendships with women who were part of her 'wild recent past' then he was 'not the right partner' for her. In another post of his alleged messages, Brady claimed that Hill only wanted her to socialize with friends whom he had 'personally approved.' The entertainer, whose documentary Stutz came out on Netflix last year, added, 'If these things bring you to a place of happiness I support it and there will be no hard feelings. These are my boundaries for romantic partnership.' He then clarified, 'My boundaries with you based on the ways these actions have hurt our trust.' Sarah wrote online to her nearly 80,000 followers, 'See the misuse of the term "boundaries"?' Brady spun her posts as a 'warning to all girls.' 'If your partner is talking to you like this, make an exit plan,' she captioned a screenshot that appeared to show Hill complaining about social media photos featuring her 'a** in a thong.' The comedy film, released in 2010, is helmed by a now-disgraced cast which includes Hill, the jailed music mogul Sean Combs and alleged sexual assaulter Russell Brand. Seen here in 2021 In 2022, the 21 Jump Street star filed a petition in Los Angeles to legally change his name, and the change became official in 2024. Seen here in 2021 'But its not my place to teach you. Ive made my boundaries clear,' he affirmed. 'You refuse to let go of some of them and youve made that clear and I hope it makes you happy.' Brady maintained that her ex-boyfriend's critiques were made in an attempt to control her. She explained that she agreed with his requests in an attempt to keep him from experiencing 'crippling anxiety.' The sad news of the marriage break-up of Amandaland star Peter Serafinowicz and his Coupling star wife Sarah Alexander has rekindled memories of Ms Alexanders previous relationship. The break up with an actor also caused headlines... because that partner was more than 40 years her senior. Sarah, 54, was only 25 when she was first spotted dating Gerald Harper, then 68, in 1996. He was well-known to 60s and 70s TV audiences as the suave star of Hadleigh, and before that Adam Adamant Lives!, an Edwardian gent who finds himself propelled into London in the swinging sixties. When first snapped together by a photographer for a red-top newspaper, the photo appeared under the headline Flirty Old Men (the other was legendary lothario Peter Stringfellow). A passer-by told the Sunday People of Alexander and Harper: They were super-glued together! They were all over each other and didnt care who saw them. Funnily enough, the young lady was making a lot of the running and kept grabbing him to French kiss him it was quite a display. The sad news of Coupling star Sarah Alexander's divorce has rekindled memories of her previous relationship with Gerald Harper. She was just 25 and he was 68, when they started dating in 1996 (pictured in 1997) When Sarah, whose big TV break would come in Coupling with Jack Davenport in 2000, moved in with Harper in his large Notting Hill house, friends eyebrows were raised, especially as she is eight years younger than her new boyfriends daughter, confusingly also named Sarah. But they refused to allow the generation gap to get in their way. Friends said Harper was absolutely bereft when Sarah left him for Serafinowicz in 2002. At the height of his fame Harper was TV's most eligible bachelor in ITVs Hadleigh, which ran from 1969 to 1976. He was perfectly cast as urbane English toff James Hadleigh, a wealthy, handsome playboy who lived in a mansion in the West Riding and ran the local newspaper. He told the Express in 2006: There wasn't that much to watch back then, so we had huge audiences. 'The top brass at Yorkshire Television didn't think Hadleigh would work, though, and placed us very late at night. When they realised they were wrong, they apologised. I tore up my contract and said: Shall we start again? Not only did I get more money, I was given the loan of a country estate for a year complete with staff. I lived like a lord. It was very glamorous. 'I was a TV star on my own terms and for the best part of 20 years I virtually didn't have a day off. The Mail revealed this week that Serafinowicz had separated from his wife of 23 years, Alexander. The couple have two children, a son and a daughter (pictured in 2017) Age has never held Harper (now 94) back. Approaching his 75th birthday, he flew to the Masai Mara in a light aircraft and rode horseback across Kenyas Masai Mara game park. On the return leg, the plan crashed through a hedge and ended up on its side. He recalled: I turned to the pilot and said: Do not bother with the next venue, my good man. Just get me the hell out of here to Nairobi and civilisation! Enough was enough. A former pupil at Haileybury public school, he originally planned to become a doctor, but caught the acting bug while doing his National Service and won a place at RADA. Alexander has enjoyed a varied comedy career, appearing in Green Wing, Smack the Pony, Armstrong and Miller and The Worst Week of My Life. Serafinowicz and Alexander, who have been married for 23 years, have two children, a son and a daughter. Serafinowicz, 52, played Johannes Van Der Velde, the extrovert South African boyfriend of social climber Amanda, played by Lucy Punch in Amandaland, which has been commissioned for a second series. The Liverpool-born actor, whose Hollywood roles include the voice of Darth Maul in Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace and Garthan Saal in Guardians Of The Galaxy, is the new host of the American game show Million Dollar Secret, billed as Netflixs lavish answer to The Traitors. Serafinowicz, who once had his own eponymous television comedy show, is also famed for his impressions of Donald Trump, whom he redubbed in a sassy camp voice, which became an internet sensation. Pierce Brosnan and his wife Keely Shaye Smith looked every inch the loved-up couple as they enjoyed a walk in Central Park on Thursday. The James Bond legend, 71, linked arms with the journalist, 61, as they went for an afternoon stroll in New York City. They matched one another in smart coats with the Mamma Mia actor in a grey number with a navy suit and brown patent-leather shoes. Pierce cut a dapper figure adding black leather gloves and dark shades, meanwhile the American stunner rocked an elegant black coat. Keely accessorised with a blue scarf and matched her husband in stylish leather gloves, as well as a croc shoulder black bag. The former TV host and actress looked glowing as she held hands with her famous husband. Pierce Brosnan and his wife Keely Shaye Smith looked every inch the loved-up couple as they enjoyed a walk in Central Park on Thursday The James Bond legend, 71, linked arms with the journalist, 61, as they went for an afternoon stroll in New York City They matched one another in smart coats with the Mamma Mia actor in a grey number with a navy suit and brown patent-leather shoes The outing comes after Pierce had an incredible response to a cruel weight jibe aimed at Keely on Facebook, after he explained friends offered to help her lose weight. Keely garnered headlines this week after displaying her incredible weight loss at the MobLand premiere in New York City. Keely, who tied the knot with the actor in 2001, displayed her weight loss estimated to be around 7 stone in a black, lace mini dress with three-quarter sleeves. However despite her changing appearance, Pierce has always supported his wife after he defended her back in 2022. After the couple celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary back in the August of that year, a cruel post about Keely's weight went viral on Facebook. In the post, which has since been deleted trolls compared how her body had changed since first meeting Pierce in 1994. Yet the star made sure to defend his wife as he replied: 'Friends offered her surgery to reduce her weight. But I strongly love every curve of her body. 'She is the most beautiful woman in my eyes. And also because she had our five children.' Pierce cut a dapper figure adding black leather gloves and dark shades, meanwhile the American stunner rocked an elegant black coat. The former TV host and actress looked glowing as she strolled packing on the PDA with her famous husband She completed her look with flat black ballerinas for her outing in the heart of New York City He continued: 'In the past, I truly loved her for her person, not only for her beauty, and now I'm loving her even more that she is my children's mother. 'And I am very proud of her, and I always seek to be worthy of her love.' Last year, Keely told Vogue: 'I never shy away from my curves. I never hide in baggy clothing.' Pierce then added: 'I love my wife's curves.' Pierce was previously married to Cassandra Harris and adopted her daughter Charlotte and son Christopher when their dad passed away in 1986. And together, they welcomed son Sean in 1983. Charlotte died from ovarian cancer in 2013 at age 41. Just over three years on after Charlotte's tragic passing, Pierce met American journalist Keely while in Mexico. The very loved-up sighting comes shortly after the acting icon has been steadfast in his love for his wife Keely over the years, often gushing over her in interviews and on Instagram (pictured at the MobLand premiere last Sunday) Pierce has always supported his wife after he defended her after friends made a cruel jibe at her weight as he said: 'I strongly love every curve of her body' (pictured in 1996) He responded to the now deleted post saying: 'She is the most beautiful woman in my eyes. And also because she had our five children' Keely displayed her three-digit weight loss in a black, lace mini dress with three-quarter sleeves. She is seen right in 2018 Upon meeting Pierce in Mexico in 1994, Keely told People that she immediately found the Bond actor 'captivating' and that he had a 'mischievous sparkle in his eyes'. In the same interview, the actor said of his wife: 'I found a great woman in Keely Shaye. Not if I searched a million times over would I find one as good.' Gushing over how Keely has supported him in his grief for his first wife, he told the Irish Times in 2013: 'Keely has always been kind and compassionate and encouraged me to mourn Cassie. I suppose Keely is my North Star, always looking out for me.' He often shares his love for and devotion to Keely on Instagram where the couple celebrate milestones including anniversaries and birthdays. Celebrating Keely's 60th birthday in September 2023, Pierce penned in his birthday post: 'Sixty roses for my brown eyed girl on her 60th birthday.' Referring to their first meeting he added: 'Forever happy and blessed was I to be sitting there when you walked around the corner early one morning in Cabo San Lucas.' Keely also supported her husband through more immeasurable grief, when his eldest daughter Charlotte died in 2013 from ovarian cancer, the same disease which claimed her mother's life 21 years earlier. She was just 42 years old. Later that year, he told the Irish Mirror how his wife continued to help him through his grief as he said: 'Love is just the most beautiful, joyous feeling. It can come from many places. 'Hopefully the one who is beside you, the one who is there on the pillow beside you in the morning my wife.' He added: 'We seem to do well at being together and being in love and, more importantly, liking each other. The like factor is a great thing. Love cannot burn constantly. 'It's very hard for it to be so intense. But it's wonderful. I tell her I love her everyday. It's important to say that.' Sydney Sweeney and Jonathan Davino's sprawling $6.2 million mansion is reportedly sitting empty after she reportedly called off their wedding. Sydney, 27, and Jonathan, 41, started dating in 2018 and got engaged in 2022, before acquiring their massive Bel Air house in 2023. A cloud of rumors has been gathering over their relationship in recent months, and last week it was claimed Sydney has canceled their nuptials. The couple have not been seen together since January and she has allegedly been staying at the Beverly Hills Hotel since mid-February. Now DailyMail.com has exclusively obtained aerial images of their grand estate in Bel Air, which is said to be vacant as it undergoes renovations. Jonathan reportedly visited the premises this week to see how the remodel was proceeding, while construction workers have also apparently been spotted there in recent days, according to The U.S. Sun. A shock new update has emerged in the gathering mystery around Sydney Sweeney 's relationship with her fiance Jonathan Davino; pictured in 2018 Now DailyMail.com has exclusively obtained aerial images of their grand estate in Bel Air, which is said to be vacant as it undergoes renovations Sydney bought the house at auction, winning the bidding war by offering more than $250,000 above the original asking price, per the real estate site Dirt. At that time, the building was a 1930s edifice evoking memories of Old Hollywood - particularly as it was owned by the son of filmmaker Delmer Daves, who directed classic westerns like 3:10 To Yuma and the Jimmy Stewart vehicle Broken Arrow. The younger Daves bought the home in 1984 for just $350,000, and it was not sold again until Sydney and Jonathan snapped it up two years ago. DailyMail.com obtained photos of the property just two days after Sydney made a stunning appearance at a Los Angeles event Wednesday sans wedding ring. The 27-year-old actress flashed a bright smile as she attended a Laneige launch event at the La La Land Kind Cafe in a casual-chic outfit. She put on a stylish display in a muted pink, corduroy jacket layered over a cropped, lace blouse with a plunging neckline. She paired her top with high-waisted, semi-flared jeans and baby pink, peep-toe mules as she posed with ads with herself on them. The brand ambassador was also pictured hugging large, sculptural versions of the Korean beauty brand's skincare products to celebrate the launch of their new Bouncy & Firm serum. Sydney bought the house at auction, winning the bidding war by offering more than $250,000 above the original asking price, per the real estate site Dirt DailyMail.com obtained photos of the property just two days after Sydney made a stunning appearance at a Los Angeles event Wednesday sans wedding ring Though the star did not wear her engagement ring often, she did show it off on rare occasions in the past two years since the proposal in 2022, revealing the ring to be a massive, round-cut diamond set in a thin band and estimated to be worth upwards of $150K. The Euphoria star went for light and dewy makeup for an effortless, glowing look at the launch event. She showcased her flawless, glowing skin, which she emphasized with soft pink blush and a glossy lip. Her long, blonde hair was styled in beach waves and parted down the middle. She accessorized with a few dainty rings but only on her pointer and middle fingers with one left noticeably bare. It was only recently revealed that Sweeney had quietly called off her engagement with Davino just a few months short of the date they were originally planning to tie the knot. It also happened that Sweeney reunited with her Anyone But You co-star Glen Powell to attend his sister's wedding in Dallas, Texas over the weekend. Powell made a telling remark about 'timing' after their friendly reunion and did not address the swirling romance rumors while making an appearance on Today's Jenna & Friends on Wednesday. He said that his sister and Sweeney are 'great friends' after seemingly referencing the actress' newly single status, their past romance rumors and the wedding. He laughed: 'You know, timing is everything in this world, isn't it?' The 27-year-old actress flashed a bright smile as she attended a Laneige launch event at the La La Land Kind Cafe in a casual-chic outfit She put on a stylish display in a muted pink, corduroy jacket layered over a cropped, lace blouse with a plunging neckline She accessorized with a few dainty rings but only on her pointer and middle fingers with one left noticeably bare The Euphoria star went for light and dewy makeup for an effortless, glowing look at the launch event. She showcased her flawless, glowing skin, which she emphasized with soft pink blush and a glossy lip Her long, blonde hair was styled in beach waves and parted down the middle Sweeney and Davino, who reportedly have been separated since January, had originally planned to tie the knot this May before the actress reportedly got cold feet. It was reported last week that the actress and film producer scrapped their wedding plans due to 'major issues.' Sweeney and Davino started dating in 2018 and got engaged in 2022, but for the most part kept their relationship assiduously private. On Monday, a source told People that Sweeney and Davino's relationship had been 'rocky for a long time.' At this time, the insider noted that Sweeney has been focusing on her career and is 'exactly where she wants to be.' She ecently called off her engagement to her fiance Jonathan Davino , 41, after about seven years together. They are pictured here in 2023 It also happened that Sweeney reunited with her Anyone But You co-star Glen Powell to attend his sister's wedding in Dallas. Powell made a telling remark about 'timing' after their friendly reunion on the same day as Sweeney attending the event; pictured February 2024 'Most people would feel overwhelmed by her working schedule this year, but not Syd. She's all about working right now and very excited about all her projects," the source says of Sweeney,' they explained. The source explained that the performer did, however, feel 'overwhelmed' by her 'relationship and her wedding.' Ultimately, she 'didn't feel right about' walking down the aisle and wants to focus on her 'magical career that she could only dream of a few years ago.' 'She's not ready to settle down,' the source explained. 'They only lasted for this long because it was hard for her to break it off. They didn't split because there is no love. They split because she just wants to focus on her career right now.' Megan Fox's babydaddy Machine Gun Kelly trolled her ex-husband Brian Austin Green. The rapper, 34, who welcomed a daughter with Megan last week, unveiled a drink inspired by Brian himself - for his Cleveland coffee shop. Machine's Ohio cafe, called 27 Club Coffee, has a new drink called the 'Child Actor Margarita.' The coffee shop described the beverage as: 'We put a childish twist on this margarita meant for those days when you just don't wanna act like an actor. 9021-OMG.' The title comes from what Machine called Brian, 51, in an Instagram direct message that the Beverly Hills 90210 star ended up sharing publicly. Megan Fox 's babydaddy Machine Gun Kelly trolled her ex-husband Brian Austin Green The rapper, 34, who welcomed a daughter with ex partner Megan last week, unveiled a drink inspired by Brian himself - for his Cleveland coffee shop; seen February 18 The title comes from what Machine called Brian, 51, in an Instagram direct message that the 90210 star ended up sharing publicly; seen December 14, 2024 Last week, Machine Gun Kelly blasted her ex-husband Brian in a shock direct message on Instagram. Brian posted the message from Machine to his Instagram stories - along with his thoughts on it. Megan gave birth to her first child with now-ex Machine Gun Kelly - hours after Brian shared the message. Machine announced that Megan gave birth on March 27th; their newborn daughter's name is still unknown. Megan and Machine split in November after she reportedly discovered he was speaking to other women behind her back. Machine's direct Instagram message to Brian said: 'Stop asking when our child is gonna be born. you the FEDS,' adding a rat emoji and a police officer emoji. 'Quit calling TMZ and focus on that apology you owe me for speaking on my name in public, Machine continued. 'You chose the wrong one to f*** with mr child actor. Go back to cereal commercials.' Brian publicly shared the message on his Instagram stories - along with his thoughts, writing: 'I didn't know "child actor" was something bad. Leo, careful. He may be coming for you next.' Brian is referring to Leo as in Leonardo DiCaprio, who is also a former child star. Machine's Ohio cafe, called 27 Club Coffee, has a new drink called the 'Child Actor Margarita' Last week, Machine Gun Kelly blasted her ex-husband Brian in a shock direct message on Instagram Brian posted the message from Machine to his Instagram stories - along with his thoughts on it; Brian seen on the right in a promo picture from Beverly Hills 90210 Megan shares one daughter with Machine and three sons with Brian Megan and Brian share three children together: Noah, 12, Bodhi, 11, and Journey, eight. They were married from 2010 until 2021. He has since moved on with Sharna Burgess; they share a son together named Zane, born in June 2022. Machine is referring to Brian slamming him in February. Last month, Brian took to his Instagram stories to call out Machine, writing: 'Bro. Just be honest for once in your life. 'Stop caring so much about how you're perceived that you will try and drag other people.' Brian attached Kelly's track, Don't Let Me Go, to his social media post. The reason why former Beverly Hills 90210 star wrote the message on his Instagram stories was because Machine questioned the narrative that surrounded his relationship with Megan. Machine shared pictures of himself on January 28th looking outside a window and off the camera - while shirtless. He wrote as the caption: 'How can "sources say" when the sources haven't said anything.' In December, Brian expressed regret that Megan is navigating her latest pregnancy while dealing with the fallout from her break-up. He was asked about his thoughts on her split from Machine, telling TMZ: 'I didn't even know.' Megan gave birth to her first child with now-ex Machine Gun Kelly - hours after Brian shared the message The cameraperson then proceeded to tell him about the text messages Megan reportedly found in November that led to her calling it quits with Machine. Adding: 'How old is he? ... He's in his 30s, isn't he? ... But in your 30s, like, f**k. Grow up. Like, she's pregnant.' 'I just want the best for her. I want the best for the baby. I want the best for our kids. That's a shame,' he said to TMZ. 'I'm heartbroken about it because I know she's been so excited. And the kids are so excited for life and the change and all of that.' Brian called the situation 'tragic' and noted that he does not know 'the facts.' Megan pulled the plug on her relationship with Machine over Thanksgiving - after reportedly discovering he was speaking to other women behind her back. Megan announced her pregnancy in November. Their five-year romance came to an end over Thanksgiving weekend while they were on holiday in Vail, Colorado, according to TMZ. They split after Megan 'found material on MGK's phone that was upsetting, and it made her want him to leave the trip early,' the source said. Machine Gun Kelly, born Colson Baker, left the trip earlier and they have not seen each other since. At the time, an insider claimed that Megan 'just wants to focus' on her pregnancy. The insider told People: 'They tried to make things work for many years. It was exhausting for Megan.' Fox, who shares three children, Noah, 11, Bodhi, nine, and Journey, seven, with ex-husband Brian Austin Green, revealed her pregnancy on November 11, sharing a sexy photo of herself covered with black paint and showing her baby bump 'She's done with him now. She just wants to focus on the baby and her boys now.' Megan 'doesn't have much contact' with the hitmaker. She posted a picture of her with her pregnant belly and a snap of her positive pregnancy test - to one of Machine Gun Kelly's songs in the pregnancy reveal, which she shared on November 11. The song of his that she chose was Last November, which refers to the miscarriage she had suffered with the musician previously. Megan captioned the post: 'Nothing is ever really lost. Welcome back,' adding a heart emoji. Megan and MGK started dating in 2020 after she split from Brian following 10 years of marriage. They got engaged in January 2022 with the couple briefly splitting in February 2023 but working things through and getting back together - but not getting engaged again. Megan and MGK started dating in 2020 after she split from Brian following 10 years of marriage; seen December 19, 2022 Megan previously revealed she believes she manifested the rapper turned rocker into the person he is, adding that she manifested him when she was four years old. 'He's literally my exact type that I've been manifesting since I was four. I'm also four years older than him. So, I think I made him.' Adding: 'My thoughts and intentions grew him into the person that he is, who knows what he would've looked like or been like if it wasn't for me.' The couple met on the film project Midnight In The Switchgrass in March 2020. New messages and photographs allegedly exchanged between actors Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Sae Ron have surfaced, fueling controversy over their past relationship. The revelations were made by Kim Se Ui of Garo Sero Institute during a live broadcast on his YouTube channel on April 2. As per Koreaboo, Kim Se Ui disputed claims made by Kim Soo Hyun's representatives regarding the timeline of certain photos. One image, reportedly showing Kim Soo Hyun kissing Kim Sae Ron's cheek, was said by Kim Soo Hyun's side to have been taken in 2019. However, Kim Se Ui asserted that Kim Sae Ron herself claimed the picture was from 2016. "Did she become a college student overnight? What major did she study then?" Kim Se Ui questioned during the broadcast. He also addressed another disputed photo, which he alleged showed Kim Soo Hyun's bed and pillow. Kim Soo Hyun's representatives stated that the picture was taken on December 14, 2019, after a walk through Seoul Forest, at which time Kim Sae Ron was 20 and attending Joongang University. Further allegations arose regarding a video message reportedly sent by Kim Soo Hyun to Kim Sae Ron while he was in Paris. Kim Se Ui condemned the act, stating, "Hey Kim Soo Hyun, can you even call yourself a human? Is it okay to send [the video] to her just because she is 20?" In addition to the images, call records from 2018 were revealed, allegedly showing that Kim Sae Ron, then 17 and 18, had called and FaceTimed Kim Soo Hyun multiple times. Kim Se Ui emphasized that digital forensics experts were working on analyzing five of Kim Sae Ron's cell phones and four laptops for further evidence. A screenshot of a message dated April 13, 2018, at 2:30 a.m. was also displayed, where Kim Sae Ron reportedly wrote: "Oppa, when you miss me and need me, you keep in touch with me without a problem, but when I need you, you're always MIA (missing). It bothers me that I can't get in contact with you and it's inconvenient. If you don't put in the effort, then I'm not seeing you anymore." According to Kim Se Ui, Kim Soo Hyun allegedly used multiple KakaoTalk accounts under different names to avoid detection. Screenshots of other conversations showed messages such as Kim Soo Hyun calling Kim Sae Ron "Pretty Nero" and referencing secret meetups. A photo reportedly taken on September 20, 2017, when Kim Sae Ron was in 10th grade, was also revealed, with Kim Se Ui asking, "Do you remember which neighborhood you were in on this date?" Another image allegedly from April 2017, purportedly sent by Kim Soo Hyun to Kim Sae Ron, was said to be taken in his home. Kim Soo Hyun's representatives have denied the authenticity of some of the messages, particularly one where Kim Sae Ron allegedly stated she dated Kim Soo Hyun from November 19, 2015, to July 7, 2021. However, Kim Se Ui presented a side-by-side video comparison of screencaptures with what he claimed were original messages from Kim Sae Ron's cousin's phone to validate their authenticity James May made shock comments about Jeremy Clarkson's Cotswolds pub as he compared to his own village inn in a new interview. After making a name for themselves on TV, the Top Gear and Grand Tour stars have both coincidentally gone on to own their own boozers. James, 62, was first on the scene when he became part owner of the Royal Oak in Swallowcliffe, Wiltshire, during lockdown in 2020. Then Jeremy, 64, followed in his co-stars footsteps when he opened the doors to his upmarket Cotswolds pub The Farmer's Dog last summer, which is located within close distance his Diddly Squat farm. Discussing the possibility of competition between the two pubs while chatting to Al Arabiya News host Tom Burges Watson on his show, James didn't hold back. He said: 'Mine's much better. I think that's the main difference. I haven't actually been to Jeremy's pub. I've met a few people who have. James May made shock comments about Jeremy Clarkson 's Cotswolds pub as he compared to his own village inn in a new interview After making a name for themselves on TV, the Top Gear and Grand Tour stars have both coincidentally gone on to own their own boozers 'It sounds like, well, from what I can gather, he's gone for a sort of mass throughput model. So he's got hundreds of people queuing up to have his burger, whereas ours is a little bit more relaxed.' Continuing to discuss his own pub, he added: 'It's a village pub where people come. The food is great. We've got a fabulous chef and team of chefs. 'So mine would feel more like, more like a regular English pub. It's not, it's not old fashioned. He hasn't got horse brass on the walls or any of that tweezer. There's no Morris dancing. I won't allow that. It is just a pub.' It comes after pubgoers were left baffled after discovering that Jeremy's pub has a strict ban on three pub staple items. The boozer has faced a string of controversies since it officially opened last summer - with customers complaining of 'overpriced' beers, mammoth queues and now, the prohibition of menu items considered a staple in most UK boozers. According to a review on Birmingham Live, the six-month-old eatery does not serve a number of beverages and condiments that some diners would consider staples. James, 62, was first on the scene when he became part owner of the Royal Oak in Swallowcliffe, Wiltshire, during lockdown in 2020 Then Jeremy, 64, followed in his co-stars footsteps when he opened the doors to his upmarket Cotswolds pub The Farmer's Dog last summer, which is located within close distance his Diddly Squat farm James said: 'Mine's much better. I think that's the main difference. I haven't actually been to Jeremy's pub. I've met a few people who have' 'You can't have coffee, ketchup or lemonade - there's a sign outside the pub explaining they don't serve coffee or ketchup,' the critic said. The journalist observed a fellow customer being refused a latte, before she was later told she couldn't have a cider shandy because the venue also doesn't serve lemonade. With an average rating of 4.5 stars on Google, it's difficult to secure a booking at The Farmer's Dog - with the Sunday lunch notoriously hard to get into. Despite winning over locals and visitors to the area, The Farmer's Dog has seen a number of teething problems since it first opened, with some customers complaining of pricey beers and endless queues. More recently, the venue was threatened with the prospect of having to close its huge carpark which is responsible for bringing in hundreds of customers from all over the country. The car park is adjacent to a listed ancient monument, a 1,400-year-old burial mound containing the remains of an Anglo-Saxon warlord, and there are concerns it could be damaged by the number of cars now arriving. The mounting pressure to close the carpark could prove a significant financial blow to the boozer, with punters travelling from all over thanks to its famous ownership. The Top Gear presenter paid 1 million to take over the pub, which is located within close distance of his base, Diddly Squat, and he has previously spoken at length about it's costly upkeep. After acquiring the pub lease, Clarkson knew he needed to increase its parking capacity - because of what happened previously when he opened his hugely popular Diddly Squat Farm Shop near Chadlington, which featured on Clarkson's Farm. It comes after pubgoers were left baffled after discovering that Jeremy's pub has a strict ban on three pub staple items More recently, the venue was threatened with the prospect of having to close its huge carpark which is responsible for bringing in hundreds of customers from all over the country Fans soon came in their hundreds causing traffic jams, with punters parked for miles around on the grass verges of narrow single-tracks, blocking roads and causing fury among neighbours. So Clarkson quickly struck a deal with local landowners Edward and Patricia Walker to lease the field with motorists charged 2 to park there - 1 of which would go to the Walkers. The arrangement seemed to be going well with cars flooding in and out since last summer's August opening, all carefully managed by parking wardens wearing hi-vis jackets, as Clarkson's pub tills rang day and night. Asthall Barrow, which dates from the seventh century AD, contains the cremated remains of a 'high-status individual', probably a warlord commanding all or part of one of the regional kingdoms the country was divided into during the Dark Ages. The barrow is listed and protected by Historic England in the heritage category of a 'scheduled monument' in the same way that Stonehenge is. But it sits at the western edge of the field Clarkson is using as a car park. And for the long term protection of the ancient mound, locals are suggesting it may be necessary to close the car park - which at times turned to a mud bath over the wet winter. Clarkson would then need to find an alternative field - and if he can't find one near enough to walk to the pub from, he may even need to provide a shuttle bus for customers. Close to 500,000 pounds of breakfast sandwiches have been recalled over a 'misbranding' error which saw sesame included in the products without proper warnings. Sesame can be deadly to people with certain allergies, prompting the urgent warning to consumers across the United States. Hearthside Food Solutions has urgently recalled 489,887 pounds worth of sausage and bacon breakfast sandwiches. Most of the products were sent to Army & Air Force Exchange Services (AAFES) locations around the nation. 'These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase,' the United States Department of Agriculture warned. 'Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them.' The impacted products include the individually wrapped sausage, egg and cheese French toast breakfast sandwiches branded as 'Lettieri's Food To Go', with lot codes beginning with 23, 24 and 25, up to 2508451. The bacon, egg and cheese version of the same product have also been recalled. Almost 500,000 breakfast sandwiches have been recalled over a 'misbranding' error which saw sesame included in the products without proper warnings While the recall is related to sesame allergens, the product does not contain the seed itself While the recall is related to sesame allergens, the product does not contain the seed itself. Rather, the French toast component of the sandwich was made using sesame flour. This was not included in the list of ingredients on the label for the breakfast sandwiches,' the USDA noted. 'There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products,' the government agency said in a statement. The impacted products include the individually wrapped sausage, egg and cheese french toast breakfast sandwiches branded as 'Lettieri's Food To Go', with lot codes beginning with 23, 24 and 25, up to 2508451 The French toast component of the sandwich was made using sesame flour 'Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider. 'FSIS is concerned that some products may be in consumers' or AAFES freezers or refrigerators.' Gamers will have to wait a bit longer for one of the most anticipated consoles of 2025. Nintendo just announced it is pausing the preorder of the Switch 2 in the US as it attempts to adjust to President Donald Trump's tariffs. The company previously announced it would launch pre-orders on April 9. 'Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the US will not start April 9, 2025 in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions,' Nintendo told DailyMail.com. 'Nintendo will update timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025 is unchanged.' The company says it will still offer the gaming system for $449.99. In order to keep the consoles at the same price, the company will have to eat millions of dollars in previously unknown costs. Switch consoles are mostly produced in Vietnam and China. Both countries were slapped with 'reciprocal' tariffs by the Trump administration. All products manufactured in Vietnam must pay a 46 percent tariff rate while products from China have to pay an additional 34 percent. Nintendo has delayed pre-orders of the Switch 2 The Switch 2 has been one of the most hotly anticipated consumer products for Americans. Nintendo released the first version of the console in 2017 with massive acclaim. The company has reported over 150 million units have sold worldwide. The newest iteration has already drawn criticism for its price: the original system sold for a base price of $299.99. But consumers are now holding their breath, expecting President Trump's tariff policies will make the systems even more expensive. All products produced in Vietnam must pay a 46 percent tariff rate while products from China have to pay an additional 34 percent. Nintendo revealed the redesigned console on Tuesday, the same day that President Trump held a massive press conference on the White House lawn to announce the higher-than-expected tariffs. The tariffs came in much higher than economists expected, sending the stock market into a tailspin on the uncertainty. Nintendo is joining a list of brands adjusting to the President's policy. The console is one of the most anticipated consoles expected to hit the market in 2025 Nintendo said it is still hoping to launch the product at the same price and on the same day as originally announced Multiple companies have been adjusting their product lineups in response to President Trump's tariffs Major automakers like Volkswagen, Chrysler, and Dodge are pausing production of some of their cars. GM is ramping up production of its US-made pickup trucks. Ford is cuttnig prices and offering its employee discount to new buyers. Clothing manufacturers are reconsidering their manufacturing processes after relying on production lines that weren't anticipating tariffs. Meanwhile, major tech companies are sifting through the ruins of stock losses. Apple, which also relies on Asian manufacturing, lost $311 billion from its market cap yesterday. The 'magnificent seven' stocks of high-earning tech companies lost $1.03 trillion yesterday. he Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution on Wednesday asking the Centre to retrieve the Katchatheev islet from Sri Lanka. According to seasoned diplomats, it is nothing other than an eye wash. aIt is an internationally accepted agreement signed between two sovereign countries, India and Sri Lanka in 1974 and 1976. What were the Tamil Nadu politicians doing all these decades?a asks TP Srinivasan, former Indian Ambassador. Late J Jayalalithaa, former chief minister and AIADMK supremo, staged a one-woman war for retrieval of Katchatheev from Sri Lanka. She even filed a petition in Supreme Court in 2008 asking for the same. Mukul Rohatgi, the Attorney General of India during 2014-2017 was asked by the apex court about the possibility of retrieving the islet from Sri Lanka to which he replied, aThe only option is to wage a war against Sri Lanka.a The islet situated close to Rameswaram was transferred to Sri Lanka as per international agreements signed by Indira Gandhi and her counterpart Sirimao Bandaranayake in 1974 and 1976. The International Maritime Boundary between the two sovereign republics were redrawn following the agreement. Indira Gandhi and the Congress party claimed that India got vast stretch of sea following the signing of the treaty. Neither the DMK nor its leader M Karunanidhi uttered a word following the signing of the agreement. In 2013, when Karunanidhi was fighting against the AIADMK with his back to the wall, he dug up the Katchatheev issue and filed a case in the Supreme Court a la Jayalalithaa. Security experts based in Chennai said that the 285 acre island has become a headache to India as the new ruling dispensation in Colombo is friendly to China than to India. There were reports in Sri Lankan and Tamil media that hundreds of Chinese are making frequent visits to the island. Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen used to fish in the territorial waters of Palk Strait where the island is located. Indian fishermens use of bottom trawling in the region this led to many clashes. By the 1974 agreement, Indian fishermen could dry their nets in the islet but no fishing was allowed. Everyday more than 1,000 fishing boats from Tamil Nadu trespass into the territorial waters of Sri Lanka, a treasure house of rare species of fish. aBottom trawling is a cruel act as it destroys the entire marine wealth of our coast line. The Tamil Nadu fishermen attack and scare away our fishers from our own land,a said Singa Ratnatunga, chief editor, Sunday Times, a leading newspaper in the island nation. The Opposition BJP in Tamil Nadu, which too voted in favor of Thursdays resolution made it known that when Chief Minister Stalin does not have any other issues to attack the Centre, he passes a resolution demanding the retrieval of the islet. The St Antonys shrine at the islet draws hundreds of pilgrims from Tamil Nadu and they sail in fishing boats and catamarans to worship in the Church in the uninhabited island. Hungary will begin the process of withdrawing from the International Criminal Court (ICC), an official said, just as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived to red carpet treatment in the countryas capital despite an arrest warrant from the worldas only permanent global tribunal for war crimes and genocide. Prime Minister Viktor OrbAn gave the Israeli leader a welcome with full military honours in Budapestas Castle District. The two close allies stood side by side as a military band played and an elaborate procession of soldiers on horseback and carrying swords and bayoneted rifles marched by. As the ceremony unfolded, OrbAnas chief of staff, Gergely GulyAs, released a brief statement saying that athe Government will initiate the withdrawal procedurea for leaving the court, which could take a year or more to complete. OrbAn later said that he believes the ICC is aa political court.a Netanyahu makes second trip abroad since warrant Netanyahuas visit to Hungary, which is scheduled to last until Sunday, was only his second foreign trip since the ICC issued the warrant against him in November. The ICC, based in the Hague, Netherlands, said when issuing its warrant that there was reason to believe Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant had committed crimes against humanity in connection with the war in Gaza. The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 251 hostages, most of whom have since been released in ceasefire agreements and other deals. Israel rescued eight living hostages and has recovered dozens of bodies. The ICC also issued arrest warrants for three Hamas leaders who were later killed. Israelas offensive in Gaza has killed more than 50,000 Palestinians, according to the enclaveas Health Ministry, which does not say whether those killed are civilians or combatants. Israel says it has killed around 20,000 militants, without providing evidence, and resumed its campaign last month, shattering a ceasefire. After the ICC issued the warrant, OrbAn invited Netanyahu to Budapest, and accused the court of ainterfering in an ongoing conflict for political purposes.a That invitation was in open defiance of the courtas ruling and contradicted Hungaryas obligations as a signatory to arrest any suspects facing a warrant if they set foot on their soil. All countries in the 27-member European Union, including Hungary, are signatories, but the court relies on member countries to enforce its rulings. Hungary joined the court in 2001 during OrbAnas first term as Prime Minister. aNo longer an impartial courta At a news conference following their meeting, OrbAn said that he believes the ICC is ano longer an impartial court, not a court of law, but a political court. And this was most clearly shown by the decisions regarding Israel.a aI am convinced that this otherwise important international judicial forum has been degraded into a political tool, with which we cannot and do not want to engage,a OrbAn said. The Hungarian leader, regarded by critics as the EUas most intransigent spoiler in the blocas decision-making, is seen as using some of the tactics that Netanyahu has been accused of employing in Israel: subjugation of the judiciary, antagonism toward the EU and cracking down on civil society and human rights groups. During the press conference, where journalists were not permitted to ask questions, Netanyahu praised Hungaryas decision, thanking OrbAn for taking a abold and principled decision.a aThe ICC directs its actions against us fighting a just war with just means,a Netanyahu said, calling Hungary athe first state that walks out of this corruption and this rottenness, and I think it will be deeply appreciated, not only in Israel but in many, many countries around the world.a Netanyahuas visit to Hungary was his second opportunity to travel abroad following the issuance of the warrant a the first was when he met with US President Donald Trump in Washington in February. It was also a chance to project an image of statesmanship while he faces mounting discontent at home. He has faced mass protests by Israelis who fear his decision to resume the war in Gaza endangers the lives of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. He has also sparked anger by trying to fire or sideline top officials in what critics view as a power grab and an attack on state institutions. Along with resuming its offensive in Gaza last month, Israel halted all imports of food, fuel and humanitarian aid to the territoryas two million Palestinians to pressure Hamas to release more hostages and accept proposed changes to the truce agreement. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold talks with Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus here on Friday, their first meeting since the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August last year. The meeting between Modi and Yunus is likely to take place on the sidelines of the sixth BIMSTEC Summit, the first in-person deliberations of the leaders of the regional grouping since 2018. Modi is also expected to meet Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli at a time when the Himalayan nation is witnessing pro-monarchy protests from a section of the society. Modi will also meet Myanmar's Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who is on a rare international visit, at a time when the country is grappling with the impact of massive earthquakes last week. India has rushed aid to Myanmar and has been helping with the relief efforts by setting up field hospitals to treat the injured under Operation Brahma. Myanmar has been in the middle of a civil war since the military coup in February 2021. Modi's meeting with Yunus assumes significance as the ties between India and Bangladesh have declined since the ouster of Hasina and the attacks on minorities in that country. Questions were also raised in certain quarters over the extent of control Yunus has over the administration in Bangladesh. The meeting also comes against the backdrop of Yunus' recent visit to China, where he made certain remarks about the northeastern region, which did not go well with India. Prime Minister Modi wrote to Yunus on Bangladesh's national day on March 26, saying India remained committed to advancing its partnership with Dhaka. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of the Liberation War of Bangladesh, which was the guiding light of India's partnership with Dhaka. A Tufts University doctoral student from Turkiye who was detained by immigration authorities had been moved to Vermont by the time a federal judge ordered authorities to keep her in Massachusetts, lawyers for the US Government said. Rumeysa Ozturk, 30, was taken by immigration officials as she walked along a street in the Boston suburb of Somerville on March 25. She was put on a plane the next day and moved to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention centre in remote Basile, Louisiana. There was no available space to detain her in New England, the Justice Department lawyers said. US District Judge Denise Casper in Boston scheduled a Thursday hearing on the matter. Casper, responding to a petition filed last week by Ozturkas lawyers, issued a ruling on March 28 that Ozturk can not be removed from the United States auntil further order of this court.a But on Tuesday, lawyers for the Justice Department argued that the judge lacks jurisdiction to decide Ozturkas case. They said Ozturkas lawyers had to file her petition in the jurisdiction where she was confined, according to court paperwork. They said the case should be dismissed or transferred to Louisiana, and that any challenge belongs in immigration court. Ozturk ais not without recourse to challenge the revocation of her visa and her arrest and detention, but such challenge cannot be made before this court,a Assistant US Attorney Mark Sauter wrote. The filing mentioned an April 7 appearance for Ozturk before an immigration judge in Louisiana. Ozturkas lawyers have until late Wednesday afternoon to respond to the governmentas argument. Ozturkas lawyers have said that her detention violates her constitutional rights, including free speech and due process. They asked the judge to order that she be immediately returned to Massachusetts and released from custody. Rallies in support of Ozturk were held in Boston and at Tufts University on Tuesday and another was planned in Boston on Wednesday. Ozturk is among several people with ties to American universities who attended demonstrations or publicly expressed support for Palestinians during the war in Gaza and who have recently had visas revoked or been stopped from entering the US. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson confirmed the termination of Ozturkas visa last week, saying investigations found she engaged in activities in support of Hamas, a US-designated terrorist group. The department did not provide evidence of that support and there was no further explanation in the government lawyersa response Tuesday. aWe gave you a visa to come and study and get a degree, not to become a social activist, to tear up our university campuses,a Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week when asked about Ozturk. Hamas militants invaded Israel on October 7, 2023, in an attack that killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and during which about 250 hostages were seized. Israelas retaliatory offensive has killed more than 50,000 people, according to Gazaas Health Ministry, and destroyed much of the enclave. Ozturk was one of four students who wrote an op-ed in The Tufts Daily last year that criticised the universityas response to student demands that Tufts aacknowledge the Palestinian genocide,a disclose its investments and divest from companies with direct or indirect ties to Israel. Friends have said Ozturk was not otherwise closely involved in protests against Israel. BTS member Jin, also known as Kim Seokjin, quietly joined relief efforts in Andong, South Korea, on Thursday. Andoing is one of the cities recently devastated by wildfires. Jin was spotted volunteering at Gilan Middle School in Gilan-myeon, where he served meals and offered emotional support to residents affected by the disaster. The idol was dressed modestly in a black cap, mask, and gray apron to maintain anonymity while working alongside other volunteers to distribute food. "I heard he's a famous celebrity, but to me, he appeared to be a kind and hardworking young man. Even amidst the other volunteers, he quietly focused on his work without seeking attention," a local resident said. The meal service was organized by Theborn Korea under the leadership of chef Baek Jong-won. Since March 28, the initiative has been providing over 300 servings of food per meal to wildfire victims, firefighters, and volunteers. JIN VOLUNTEERED TO HELP THOSE AFFECTED BY WILDFIRE IN ANDONG CITY pic.twitter.com/FhTH7LBO2Q jin files (@seokjinfile) April 3, 2025 Jin's act of kindness is part of broader relief efforts involving BTS members. Jungkook donated 1 billion won (approximately $750,000), V contributed 200 million won ($150,000), and RM, J-Hope, and Suga each donated 100 million won ($75,000) to support recovery initiatives. South Korea is currently grappling with one of the worst wildfires in its history. The fireswhich have been burning since March 21have so far scorched more than 48,000 hectares (119,000 acres), resulting in the deaths of at least 31 people, including four firefighters and a helicopter pilot. The fires have displaced more than 37,000 residents, with thousands seeking refuge in temporary shelters. The hardest-hit areas include Uiseong, Andong, and Cheongsong, which have been declared special disaster zones. Strong winds and dry weather have fueled the fires, complicating containment efforts despite the deployment of over 1,600 firefighters and 242 helicopters. The wildfires have caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including the destruction of more than 6,000 structures, such as homes and cultural heritage sites. Among the losses are parts of Gounsa Temple in Uiseong County, a historic site dating back to the 7th century. Claire Sugden MLA has called for a coordinated and adequately funded response to sexual violence in Northern Ireland, urging the Executive to ensure that survivors have access to the right support, regardless of where they live or whether they report to police. Marking Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the East Derry MLA said government must do more to back up the work of frontline organisations and protect women and girls. Every day in Northern Ireland, women are being assaulted, abused, or living with the long-term trauma of past experiences. Some come forward. Many dont. But every survivor deserves to be supported with timely access to therapy, advocacy, and safe spaces to recover. Charities and community groups are doing incredible work supporting victims, often on limited budgets, and they are a lifeline for so many women. But they need the right funding and long-term support from government to keep going. This cant be left to the voluntary sector alone. She also highlighted the additional barriers for women and girls in rural areas like East Derry. When support is only available in cities and towns, it means rural victims are left isolated. Thats not acceptable. We need to make sure services and funding reflect the needs of every community, not just those closest to Belfast. We also need to educate our young people not just about the law, but about respect, boundaries, and consent. Thats how we start to shift attitudes and prevent this from happening in the first place. Everyone has a role to play Justice, Health, Education. Supporting victims is a shared responsibility, and we must do better. A local funeral director has welcomed the planning permission being granted for the construction of a crematorium in Letterkenny. Sean Carr, owner of Carr Family Funeral Directors, believes the news will be beneficial for Derry and many areas within the northwest of Ireland. Donegal County Council has given the green light to Michael Morning for the construction of a crematoriumwhich would be the first to be built in the countyat Carnamuggagh, Letterkenny. Plans for the funeral home were previously granted planning permission, and in December a fresh application was lodged to add a crematorium to the facility. Mr Carr said: It will be great for Derry; it will be a massive difference from having to go to Cavan at present, now with this crematorium in Letterkenny. I have always been pushing for a crematorium here in Derry. I find the next generation talks more about cremation. I believe a lot of people and funeral directors from Derry will be using the crematorium in Letterkenny once it is completed. Letterkenny will be a massive catchment area, the whole northwest and even into the Coleraine and Limavady direction; it will be a lot quicker than going to Cavan and then Belfast, due to how busy it will be up there. At the moment, families from the northwest face long journeys to either the Lakelands Crematorium in County Cavan or Roselawn Crematorium in Belfast for cremation services. Mr Morning, who owns the nearby Eternal Light Chapel of Rest, has been granted planning permission, subject to 20 conditions laid down by the Council. The permission provides for the installation and operation of one oven for the cremation of human remains. The local authority has sought information regarding the training proposals for operational staff and the arrangements for the disposal of waste arising. It has also asked for a detailed monitoring programme for stakeholders emissions. Various assessments and reports are also required by the Council before construction of the facility can begin. The applicant is to use best practicable means to prevent or minimise noise and dust emissions during the construction and operational phases of the development. Construction can only take place between 7am-7pm Monday-Friday, 8am-2pm on Saturdays, and not at all on Sundays or public holidays, and the hours of operation will be between 9.30am-6pm seven days a week. Derrys historic connections with the Livery Companies of London, who funded the citys historic walls, were discussed this week during a special visit by a delegation led by the Honourable the Irish Society. The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, welcomed the delegation, which included senior representatives of The Fishmongers Company, The Salters Company, The Ironmongers Company and The Drapers Company led by Governor Alderman Vincent Keaveny CBE, to the Guildhall where they enjoyed a tour of the historic building. There they got to view some of the beautiful stained glass windows originally donated by the companies and featuring images and symbols reflecting the role of the Society in the citys history. It was also an opportunity for the delegation to hear more about progress on the ambitious City Deal plans and the planned investments which will be pivotal in the transformation of the City and District. Speaking after the visit, Mayor Barr said: I was delighted to welcome the London delegation to the city today and to continue the work in building and strengthening our connections with the City of London. This is a very exciting time for our City and District as we look forward to the delivery of a suite of projects that will bring about tangible and lasting change here. READ NEXT: Feile Derry unveil People Make Central Drive outdoor exhibition in Creggan Today provided an opportunity to discuss these plans and to stress the importance of investment in the North West Region to ensure that we can continue to drive forward our vision for Derry and Strabane as a vibrant and progressive place to live and work as well as a vibrant and thriving hub for business. After the visit to the Guildhall the delegation embarked on a tour of the citys 400-year-old Walls and met with the citys Lord Lieutenant, Ian Crowe. A woman has been given a suspended sentence at Derry Magistrates' Court charged with disorderly behavior and two counts of assault, all of which occurred in hospitals. Elizabeth Heaney (60) of Legavallan Road in Derry was charged with, on February 28 last year, disorderly behavior and assaulting a doctor in Altnagelvin Hospital. Police were called to A&E after Heaney had refused to leave the premises despite being discharged, shouting abuse at staff and pulling the stethoscope from the neck of a doctor. Heaney was also charged with another assault that occurred in Grangewood on September 12, 2023 after a member of staff was reported to have been assaulted by a patient. Heaney denied the allegations when questioned by police. Defence Barrister Stephen Chapman said that Heaney had no previous record and had experienced 'poor mental health' over the past 25 years but had pleaded guilty to the charges at the earliest opportunity. She was sentenced to four months in custody suspended for two years. Two men have been remanded in custody at Derry Magistrates' Court charged in connection with the finding of 1.2kgs of cocaine which a police officer said would be valued at 150,000. Aiden Martin Paul Doyle (38) of Broomfield Park and Than Donal McDonnell (37) of Rathmore Road both in Derry were jointly charged with possessing cocaine and amphetamines with intent to supply on April 2. They were also charged with possessing the drugs on the same date as well as two charges of conspiring to supply both drugs. A police officer connected the accused to the charges and opposed bail. He told the court that around 3.35pm police stopped a vehicle on the Glengalligh Road being driven by McDonnell with Doyle in the backseat. The officer said that a search uncovered 1.2kgs of cocaine and two packets of white powder on Doyle. The court heard that in a prepared statement Doyle claimed he had been asked to deliver the drugs in return for a small amount of drugs. He would not name who asked him to do this. The officer said that McDonnell supplied an account of his movements. Bail was opposed on the grounds that the drugs belonged to an organised crime gang and there were concerns over the risk if reoffending and also concerns for the defendants' safety. Defence solicitor for Doyle Don Mahoney said his client had strong links to the city and no relevant record. He said that he could be released on bail especially as this case could take some time to be dealt with. Defence solicitor for McDonnell Paddy MacDermott said that no drugs had been found on his client who had co-operated with police by giving his PIN which he said was not the actions of a member of an organised crime gang. Deputy District Judge Trevor Browne said his concerns were 'the degree of immersion' of the defendants. He said they were 'obviously trusted' with this 'substantial' amount of drugs and there was a risk of reoffending. Bail was refused as was an anonymity application and both men were remanded in custody to appear again on May 1. Three men were sentenced at Belfast Crown Court today, 4 April, for their roles in connection with the supply of controlled drugs in the North West. The men are believed to be members of an organised crime group operating primarily in the Coleraine area. Peter Anthony Neill, age 38, from Coleraine was sentenced to two years, suspended for three years. Ashley Richard Craig, 35, from Strathfoyle was sentenced to two years, suspended for three years and Aaron John Connor, 34, from Castlerock was sentenced to 12 months, suspended for two years. Detective Sergeant Moore, from the Police Service of Northern Irelands Organised Crime Branch, said: Todays sentencings are the result of a lengthy and extensive investigation into the activities of an organised crime group operating primarily in the Coleraine area, but with activity extending into Derry/Londonderry and Claudy. These individuals activities focused on the supply of a Class A controlled drug, namely cocaine linked to a significant seizure in Nutts Corner in 2015. READ NEXT: Donegal's first crematorium gets planning permission Detective Sergeant Moore outlined the details of the seizure, saying: On 20 November 2015, as part of a targeted police operation, a silver-coloured Mercedes was stopped and searched in the Nutts Corner area. Officers seized cocaine with a street value of approximately 405,000 from behind the drivers footwell. He added: Today, thanks to the efforts of our investigation team and working in partnership with the Public Prosecution Service, members of this organised crime group have been held to account. Superintendent Sinead McIldowney is the District Commander for Causeway Coast and Glens and said: Organised criminality and drug-dealing has no place in our community. Those who supply illegal drugs care only about lining their own pockets, and always at the expense of others. They dont care about the devastation that results, with families and loved ones left to deal with the inevitable heartache and loss. I, along with my team, am only too aware of the concerns of local people, and I hope that todays result sends out a very powerful message. Working with our colleagues in Organised Crime Branch, we will continue to work tirelessly to remove drugs from our towns and neighbourhoods, and we will continue to bring those involved in illegal activity before the courts. Were extremely grateful for the support of local people, and would encourage anyone with information, or concerns, to please contact us on 101. Palestinian filmmaker and journalist, Yousef Alhelou has received a warm welcome at the weekly, Friday night Bridgil for Palestine at Derry's Peace Bridge organised by Derry-Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign. Mr Alhelou is in the city for the screening of his unique personal film 'The Phoenix of Gaza: A City Lost to Genocide' in The Nerve Centre on Friday evening. He is also speaking at an event in The Museum of Free Derry hosted by the Bloody Sunday Trust at 2pm on Saturday, April 5, 2025. Speaking to The Derry News, Yousef Alhelou said his message was that Derry people should be proud of themselves. Weekly Derry Bridgil welcomes Palestinian filmmaker & journalist, Yousef Alhelou - @DerryNow digital report thread. Palestinian filmmaker & journalist, Yousef Alhelou (@YousefAlhelou) received a warm welcome at the weekly, Friday night Bridgil for Palestine at Derry's Peace pic.twitter.com/iMpHJYRKH4 Catherine McGinty (@CathMcGin_Tea) April 4, 2025 He added: "I am proud for you because you are on the right side of history. "I chose Ireland as the first country to screen my film because of the similarities because of the struggle against colonialism. "So, keep up the good work. You are making a change and people in Gaza have seen your activism. I share all the stuff on my Instagram - although my one million [followers] account has been suspended but we never give up. "Also, my other message is that you keep the pressure on your officials because the freedom of the irish people is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians and if you are neutral in situations of injustice then you choose the side of the oppressor," said Yousef Alhelou. Mr Alhelou added Palestinans appreciated the support of anybody, be they Muslims, Christians, Athiests, Secularists - from all walks of life. "This is a just cause, this is a human cause, and you are going to make history," he said. "I have met so many people from Derry in Gaza." Speaking about 'The Phoenix of Gaza', Yousef Alhelou said: "I called it The Phoenix of Gaza because Gaza is subjected from time to time to Israeli onslaughts and aggressions and after each aggression, we rebuild Gaza. "Gaza is in a constant state of rebirth. Israel tries to destroy our history, our identity, our cultural heritage but we will rebuild what they destroy beacuse we refuse to vanish. "I always say, I didn't ask to be born Palestinian, I just got lucky. "All of you, I Consider you Palestinians. Your blood is Palestinian because you refuse to be silenced and this is important." Teachers in Northern Ireland have accepted a new pay offer, removing the threat of strike action in schools. The Northern Ireland Teachers Council (NITC), which represents the five main unions in the sector, has accepted the 5.5% pay offer, ending ongoing industrial action. Teachers had rejected previous offers amid concerns over workload, and had been taking part in industrial action short of strike action. Some of the unions had also voted in December for strike action as part of the ongoing dispute. The unions said there had now been a personal intervention by Education Minister Paul Givan to address their concerns. An independent review to cover all aspects of workload has been commissioned. Mr Givan said the end of industrial action will increase stability in our schools. He added: The pay settlement will see the starting salary for graduate teachers increasing to 31,650. This is an increase of 1,650 over the year and it follows on from the teachers pay settlement in April 2024 which saw the starting salary for teachers raised by almost 25%. New teachers are now being paid 7,513 more than the salary paid prior to the Executive returning last year. It is anticipated that the pay increase will be applied to most teachers in May and a full-time teacher on the starting salary would receive 1,237.50 in back pay for the period from September 1 2024 to May 31 2025, while a full-time teacher on upper pay scale point 3 would receive 1,913.25. Mr Givan added: Constructive negotiations have taken place with trade unions and I have listened to their concerns about workload. I want to make meaningful progress on the issues to ensure that teachers have the time and space to focus on what matters most teaching, learning and supporting pupils in the classroom. In order to seek to break the deadlock, I proposed a commission to conduct an independent review of all aspects of workload, that will be taken forward by a three-member panel, comprising an independent chair appointed by me, a member nominated by the unions and a member nominated by management side. The panel will examine workload and report to me by the end of November. Jacquie White, the chairwoman of NITC said it was a significant first step in delivering tangible change for the teaching profession. She added: All parties involved the minister, the employers and the teaching unions are now committed to addressing the concerns which have been raised by teachers and school leaders over a considerable period of time. We welcome the opportunity for real change which this agreement presents. Mark McTaggart, Irish National Teachers Organisation northern secretary said it had been a long and difficult journey to find a resolution to the pay dispute. He added: The pay offer of 5.5% is a further step in the right direction toward ensuring that teachers pay truly reflects the value of teachers and school leaders to our society. The independent review of teachers workload is the best vehicle to address the issues around teacher workload to move to a position where teachers will have an acceptable work/life balance. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. Garron Noone is 'moving to France' but there is a twist. In a video shared to the well-known Mayo TikTok creator's social media on April Fool's Day, he said: "Just a bit of a life update, I am getting ready to move. I am going to be moving in the next couple of weeks and I just wanted to tell ye why and what the story is. First of all I love Ireland and I will always love Ireland. So much of my content is about Ireland but the last few months I have been kicking around the idea of moving to France, it is something I wanted to do for a long time and I just decided that now is the time to do it. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Garron Noone (@garron_music) "The number one reason is the French people. They are some of the warmest, friendliest people on the planet. I don't really know the language but I am sure they won't really mind that at all. It is a beautiful place as well and the food. Of course I am going to take ye along with me, follow me I am delicious." READ NEXT: Popular chocolate bar pulled from Irish supermarkets over fears of 'small stones' inside A lot of his followers fell for the prank until they realised what day it was... One user said: "You had me until you said the French were friendly." Another user said: "I forgot what the date was for a second. You had me there Garron." Mayo's funnyman returned to social media after deactivating his accounts last week. His move to leave social media came after a backlash to comments he made about immigration. In that first video, he said: "The [immigration] systems that we have in place are being taken advantage of, and that is plain to see. And the government continually does not allow people to express their concerns about that." Garron released a video on his TikTok and Instagram accounts. The caption of the video read: "I stand by what I said in my first video, this video will clarify any points I seen that were taken up differently to how I meant them, and this will be my last word on it." Above: Dr Kevin Burns, Head of the Department of Hospitality Studies at DkIT; Deirdre Buckley, Director of People and Culture at Cliste Hospitality and the iNua Collection; Dr Diarmuid OCallaghan, DkIT President; Dr Patricia Moriarty, Head of School of Business and Humanities at DkIT and Janet Coogan, Corporate Partnership Officer at DkIT Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) President, Diarmuid OCallaghan and Deirdre Buckley, Director of People & Culture at Cliste Hospitality & The iNua Collection recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Louth Institute's Hospitality Department and the iNua Hotel Group. The agreement, which has been developed through the CREATE-DkIT project, builds on the previous agreement shared with the Gateway Hotel, which has now been extended to the wider iNua Collection. The MoU aims to support cultural and educational exchanges while enhancing practical learning experiences for students and professional development opportunities for both DkIT and iNua. It will explore collaborations for practical exposure and industry understanding, structured work placements and research and innovation, among others. The MoU was signed following a seminar organised by Dundalk Institute of Technology, in partnership with the Irish Hospitality Institute held on the DkIT campus titled: College to Career, Your Next Steps. It was a significant occasion, as it marked the first time the Irish Hospitality Institute has held an event on the DkIT campus. Dr Diarmuid OCallaghan, DkIT President said: "It was fantastic to have hospitality experts on campus from the Irish Hospitality Institute, Cliste Hospitality and the iNua Collection, Hotel Talent-Broadline Group and the NYX Hotel sharing their valuable industry insights and highlighting key opportunities for career progression with our students. "Signing this MoU with iNua is a wonderful step toward strengthening our industry collaborations, ensuring that our students gain optimal practical experiences and networking opportunities before graduation. This partnership reinforces our commitment to producing work-ready graduates who are prepared to excel in the hospitality sector." Deirdre Buckley, Director of People and Culture at Cliste Hospitality and the iNua Collection said: I really look forward to growing the collaboration with the Gateway Hotel & wider iNUA Hotel Collection and DkIT. Our company values align well with this initiative and the wider company resources are available to support over the three-year term and beyond. "The hospitality event was a great collaboration between DkIT, the IHI, and industry partners, all of us with the shared objective of engaging the students in the opportunities within our industry. It was a pleasure to visit the school again and to meet the students and the dedicated team behind the scenes. Speakers at the College to Career, Your Next Steps seminar included; Deirdre Buckley, Director of People and Culture at Cliste Hospitality and the iNua Collection; Alan Rooney, DkIT Graduate and General Manager at the NYX Hotel Dublin; Patrick McNamara, Brand Manager, Hotel Talent, Broadline Recruiter; and Tina Maree, National Executive Officer at the Irish Hospitality Institute. Several key themes emerged across the speakers, highlighting the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and relationship-building within the hospitality industry. Deirdre Buckley emphasised the value of innovation, sustainability, data analytics, revenue management, personalisation and streamlined operations as crucial for the industry's future, while also underscoring the importance of fostering relationships and upskilling. Alan, a former DkIT student and the General Manager at NYX, shared insights on the benefit of exploring different roles within the industry to gain a well-rounded perspective and highlighted the importance of supporting team growth. AI and constantly evolving guest expectations were discussed as factors pushing the industry forward, with advice to stay curious and open-minded. Patrick McNamara reinforced the importance of tailored CVs, understanding companies before applying, and the need for career development through continuous learning and networking. His key advice: Dress to succeed and dont hesitate to ask the right questions for career guidance. Tina Maree, the National Executive Officer of the Irish Hospitality Institute (IHI), discussed the organisation's role in supporting managers within Irelands hotel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. She highlighted how the IHI fosters career development for its members through conferences, seminars, networking opportunities, and various management training and mentorship programmes. Tina Maree, National Executive Officer, Irish Hospitality Institute said: It was an honour to join both industry and academic colleagues in sharing career insights with students and highlighting the variety of roles our industry offers. As a professional membership body, our objective at IHI is to support our students and professionals at every stage of their career development. We are committed to providing a platform that encourages Continuous Professional Development (CPD), mentoring, and networking opportunities. Speaking after the event and MoU signing, Kevin Burns, Head of the Department of Hospitality Studies at DkIT said: The MOU with Cliste and iNUA Hospitality strengthens industry-academic collaboration, enhancing student pathways, while the success of the IHI College to Career event showcased the power of partnership in shaping future hospitality leaders. Eligible students in Louth should apply to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) following the opening for applications for the 2025/26 academic year, local Fine Gael Deputy TD Paula Butterly said. Deputy Butterly said the substantial increase in the thresholds for grants means more students will now be eligible for grant support. The increase in student maintenance grants are a step forward for students and families in Louth and across the country. Ensuring we remove any barriers to education has always been a key priority for Fine Gael. Im delighted that more students in Louth will now be able to benefit from financial support. READ NEXT: Louth County Council seeks to CPO land for Carlingford Public Realm Scheme Fine Gael is committed to cutting the cost of education and alleviating financial pressures, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than any undue financial stress. Key measures include: Increased Eligibility: More families will now qualify, with the income limit raised to 115,000, allowing more students to access financial support. Higher Grant Amounts: The special rate of grant has increased from 26,200 to 27,400, in line with rises in social welfare rates. Increased Income Deductions: Students can now earn more during the holidays without it affecting their grant, with the income deduction rising to 8,424. Expanded Eligibility: The scheme has been broadened to include students with certain immigration statuses, such as those under the Regularisation Scheme. I want to encourage all eligible students across Louth to apply now. If you qualify, dont hesitate to visit the SUSI website at www.susi.ie", Deputy Butterly continued. Fine Gael believes in making major investments in our higher education system and we will help to ensure that every student in Louth has a meaningful opportunity to learn and get the qualification they want." 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. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your work: Im Emma Jacobs, a South African Irish visual artist, based at Ballinhassig since June 2021. Married to Nic for 28 years, mom to Aidan and Aimee, our scotty Maggie and stepmom to three grown sons. Over the past four years, we have embraced our Irish heritage and the opportunity to reinvent ourselves in our new home country. I attended Christian Brothers College in Bloemfontein (yes, they were newly co-ed then), studied at the University of Cape Town, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts and Postgraduate Diploma in Organisation and Management. My career background is in learning and development. I worked as a Training and Development Manager for Independent Newspapers, and MediKredit, and a Master Trainer and HR Development Consultant for Deloitte South Africa. In 2003, we opened our first 5-star, art-themed B&B at Durban, South Africa, and over the next five years, grew the business to 18 B&B rooms and a conference venue across three properties, and won numerous awards. In 2016, at 46, I started an oil painting for beginners class. My sister and I attended art classes, at school, so the seeds were there, lying latent for much later in life. It turned out, I was good at it and moved on to paint with a group of practicing artists at Studio 3. I opened my first solo art exhibition on March 7, 2020, at The Foyer in Durban which was a spectacularly validating day. Little did we know what was lying around the corner with travel bans. The pandemic hit us hard with three B&Bs and 15 staff. We made the very hard decision to leave South Africa and emigrate to Ireland in our 50s with our two children, then aged 18 and 20, and decided on Cork. My father, Timothy Patrick McNally, was originally from Dublin and my mum was Welsh. We grew up as children of immigrants who came to South Africa as children, and returning to Ireland with our children has been full circle. For the first three years, I worked in hotel management, leaving my role as People and Culture Manager at The Montenotte Hotel in April last year to return to self-employment as a full-time visual artist. I specialise in oil painting in a contemporary realism style. I am inspired by everyday life; painting faces and places I encounter. Known for my bold brushstrokes, big canvasses, and happy, upbeat colours, I have a distinct style that reflects my positive and confident energy. Not shy to tackle any subject matter, I particularly enjoy painting large portraits, animals, florals, and landscapes. I draw up my images from my reference photos, or a clients if they have commissioned me, and activate the canvass in a unique way, using ink runs, a vibrant acrylic wash, combined with a painting process that creates beauty and order out of the chaos of the underpainting. I have participated in Kinsale Art Weekend over the past three years, Showcase Kinsale, and Ballymaloe Craft Fair, and various group exhibitions. My first solo art exhibition in Ireland was in April/May 2024 at The Hideout Cafe and Art Gallery in Cork city, followed by an exhibition in August at Cork Airport, and Grey Heron, West Cork, in Bandon. I have a current solo exhibition showing until April 15 at Kinsale Library. I am a member of Sample Studios, Business to Arts, Uillinn West Cork Arts Centre, Future Kinsale, and Network Cork. I am proud of how I have grown my art practice in Ireland in a relatively short period, and the wonderful reception I have received from the Irish, especially Cork public. I am a part-time tutor at Cork ETB facilitating Leadership and Management Skills to Advance courses for the hospitality sector, public workshops, and in-house Leadership Development programmes. I am an inspirational keynote speaker, most recently at the Department of Social Protections International Womens Day event earlier this month at the Imperial Hotel. I volunteer as a board director for EIL AFS Intercultural Learning Ireland. I was an AFS Exchange student from Bloemfontein in South Africa to Luxembourg as a teenager and am thrilled to serve this amazing organisation that promotes active global citizenship and intercultural learning. What is your ideal way to spend a Friday night? We are homebodies, and we enjoy taking Friday night at a slow and relaxed pace to unwind from the busy week, preferably with a good portion of fresh fish and chips from one of the food trucks on the Kinsale Bridge, or some deli foods from Dunnes at Bandon roundabout the Caprese pizza is absolutely delicious. Light the fire, open up a good bottle of wine, and were good to go. Lie ins or up with the lark.. which is it for you? More like, up with the dark. My hubby Nic is a very early riser, and after 20 years of owning 5-star B&Bs where we were always first in the kitchen for breakfast prep, its ingrained. Even on weekends, well be up early, getting ready for the day. Definitely 9 to 5 people, like Dolly Parton sang, just at night. Does work creep into your weekend at all? Absolutely, but the work I love, painting and creating. We were self-employed in SA with a business that ran seven days a week, 365 a year. Its hard to break old habits. I find time to recharge in the week and try to keep my Fridays free of formal work and dedicated to art/me time. If money was no object where would you head to on a weekend city break? And who would you bring with you? I had a dream to spend my 50th birthday at the top of the Statue of Liberty. Well, the pandemic had different ideas. Emma has been exhibiting her work for the past three years and last year left her role in hospitality to become a full-time artist. Martin Kelleher, Rosemary Brown, Emma Jacobs. Picture: Anna Groniecka An unfulfilled wish on the bucket list, so if money were no object, we would be heading off to New York all the way, and then off to Washington DC. Closer to home, is there some place you like to head to recharge the batteries? Nic and I share a birthday, both born on April 29, eight years apart. In South Africa, we would spend our birthdays at the beach, usually Ballito on the Kwa-Zulu Natal North Coast, and wedding anniversaries at the Berg, we were married at Cathedral Peak. Our first birthday in Ireland was spent at Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa which has now become a special place for us to recharge. I love a good long walk on a beach, and Garretstown and Garrylucas are my go-to beaches and of course the inspiration for beautiful paintings. We love West Cork and enjoy discovering new places and spots. A falafel wrap on a sunny day at the Farmers Market on a Saturday morning in Skibbereen is hard to beat. Do you like to catch up with family/friends at the weekend? As the extrovert in the family and a creative entrepreneur, I need people and feed off the energy of connection. I love to network and belong to Network Cork, and the recently launched West Cork Collective in Ballinspittle Village. By the time the weekend comes, we enjoy spending time together as a family. Do you get to indulge any hobbies? Even as a spectator? I am lucky that I wear many hats, and as such, I can engage in new things regularly. I love to travel. Over the past year, I was fortunate to travel in my capacity as a volunteer board director for EIL AFS Intercultural Learning Ireland, to Bonn in Germany, Castelldefels in Spain, and Rige in Latvia. As a life-long learner, I completed an Employment Law Course with Cork ETB, qualified as an AFS Global Up Facilitator and am currently participating in the Art of Business and Business of Art course with Future Kinsale. I did martial arts, karate, for eight years in my 40s and moved to visual arts in my 50s. A little kinder on the body. Entertain or be entertained? If its the latter do you have a signature dish? After 23 years in hospitality, we love to entertain. The biggest sacrifice moving to Ireland has been the change in lifestyle. We have a large 5-star B&B in Durban and miss the space and convenience of entertaining friends, family, and guests at our home and business. Pictured are: Rebecca Powell. Norma Mulligan, Lotte Vader, Emma Jacobs. Picture: Anna Groniecka Durban has the largest community of Indians outside of India, and as such, we enjoy a good Durban curry, or Bunny Chow which is a hot meat or beans curry served in a hollowed-out, half loaf of bread with fresh coriander, followed by a traditional South African Malva pudding and custard. We have so many places to eat out in Cork - where are your go to spots for coffee/lunch/special meal? For coffee, West Cork Coffee in the Grey Heron in Bandon, breakfast at Priory Coffee in Riverstick or Crosshaven, for a lite bite, The Flying Poet in Kinsale and The Townhouse ODs Gastropub in Schull, for lunch, SpitJack in Cork city, and for dinner, The Whales Tail at the Clonakilty Distillery. Sunday night comes around too fast.. how do you normally spend it? Chilled, munching nice food, watching a good series, and then off to bed for 9pm, so that we are bright-eyed, and bushy-tailed for the new week. What time does your alarm clock go off on Monday morning? It doesnt. As long as I have known him, Nic wakes up around 4am. Anything else you are up to right now... I have a solo Emma Jacobs Art exhibition Through my Eyes showing until April 15 at the gallery space of the award-wining Kinsale Library. The library is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9.30am to 5.30pm. I am a retail member of the recently launched West Cork Collective. There are a total of 18 artists and makers, and a large group of Associate members who display their work in the gallery space. It is open seven days a week. The Address Hotel on Military Hill in Cork City has kindly embraced me as their Address Collective Artist in Residence, as part of the Art at the Address where they support local artists in the community. While the pharmaceutical sector one of the main areas of concern in Cork ahead of US president Donald Trumps tariff announcement will not be affected by tariffs for now, there is concern that they may be coming down the line. On Wednesday, Mr Trump announced a 20% tax on goods from the EU, but further information published by the White House suggests some goods including pharmaceuticals will not be subject to the tariffs. However, the industry may be subjected to harsh tariffs at a later date. In Cork, 33 pharma or medical devices companies, including Eli Lilly, Johnson and Johnson and Merck, employ almost 14,000 people in total. Huge employer Fine Gael county councillor for Cobh, Anthony Barry, told The Echo that pharma is a huge employer in areas such as Little Island and Carrigtwohill within his local authority municipal district. Its been flagged that a lot of products made here arent final products, theyre going to the States where added value will be put on them. The level of technology and time taken to develop these industries in Ireland means youre not just going to close them down, build one in Indiana and it will all be fine and hunky dory next year, said Mr Barry. Looking at the supply chain, and the fact that were talking about medicines here, maybe issues around that logic dictated the decision not to put tariffs on this sector at the moment. Its temporary though, hes definitely thinking up something, because he is mentioning Ireland with regularity, but hopefully this is buying a bit of time, he added. Concerns Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy said that concerns still remain around the pharmaceutical sector. I think, based on where we were before the announcement in the unknown, theres wide-ranging relief that pharma is not included, said Mr Healy. But theres speculation that at some point in the future a sectoral tariff on pharma could be introduced, so theres some level of concern there still. Independent Ireland leader and Cork South West TD, Michael Collins, said: While the situation is serious, Ireland has for now escaped the worst of the tariff measures, with the vital pharmaceutical sector currently untouched. So far, weve come out of this relatively lightly. Thats no comfort to those sectors impacted, but it does mean we still have room to negotiate. As Mr Trump takes aim at the mostly American-owned pharmaceutical industry here, many people in Carrigtwohill are getting nervous. A cluster of high-tech plants offering well-paid jobs has transformed the East Cork town, quadrupling its population in just two decades. The pharmaceutical industry has an outsized presence in Ireland, employing about 2% of the workforce and generating tens of billions of euro in taxes for Government coffers. But if Mr Trump has his way, the good times could be about to end. While pharmaceuticals were exempt from the sweeping duties he announced on Wednesday, a US official said the president is planning separate tariffs targeting the pharma industry. Pharmaceuticals accounted for 58bn of the 73bn worth of products Ireland exported to the United States last year, a big contributor to the US goods trade deficit with the EU that has riled Mr Trump. Worrying He is going to do fierce damage, said retired butcher Anthony Barry, 73, at a charity event at Carrigtwohills community centre, where the tariff threat to the economy dominated conversation. Retired butcher Anthony Barry, 73, speaks to Reuters as he enjoys a coffee morning with his wife Josephine in the local community, where the tariff threat to the economy dominated conversation. Picture: Reuters/Clodagh Kilcoyne. Its just a worrying time, he said, after one of the events organisers listed six family members who work at nearby US pharmaceutical facilities. Mr Trump has repeatedly singled out Ireland for luring away US pharma giants such as Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer with decades of low corporate tax rates. US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick has characterised Irish policy as a scam that Mr Trumps administration will end through tax changes and tariffs. More than a dozen of the worlds biggest drugmakers have plants in Ireland, some decades-old. Many make medicines or active ingredients for the $630bn US market, the industrys biggest. Merck produces the worlds top-selling prescription medicine Keytruda, for cancer near Dublin. AbbVie makes Botox shots in Westport, while Eli Lillys Kinsale site helps meet soaring US demand for obesity drugs. Mr Trumps demands to shift manufacturing to the United States have prompted several companies to ramp up investment there. But industry sources have told Reuters that drug makers are reluctant to break and rebuild global supply chains, of which Ireland is a linchpin, as doing so would be costly and complex. Lack of certainty I wouldnt see an exodus happening as a result of this, because of not just the track record [of pharma in Ireland] but the lack of certainty around what the alternative is, said PwC Irelands lead advisor to pharmaceutical clients Harry Harrison. While some were carrying out very, very initial scenario-planning around moving production, including the cost, tax, and regulatory implications and supply chain impact, Mr Harrison said: I would expect to see largely what is here now remain here. Investment agency IDA Ireland has announced at least a dozen US pharma investments of between $55m and $1.8bn since mid-2022, and its head of life sciences, Rachel Shelly, said there was no sign they would be paused. Although Taoiseach Micheal Martin warned on Tuesday that further investment decisions are on hold, Ms Shelly said: In the immediate term, the uncertainty may cause companies to hold a little bit, but those decisions cant be put off forever. While foreign multinationals have long cut their tax bills by locating intellectual property (IP) in Ireland, the revenues that have rolled in have left the country with the healthiest public finances in Europe. Vulnerable But the reliance on decisions made in US boardrooms has left it especially vulnerable to Mr Trumps economic plans. Mr Martin has called it the most serious challenge facing the country. Speaking to reporters outside Government Buildings, Mr Martin warned the imposition of tariffs on a worldwide scale could cause recessionary trends across the globe. Taoiseach Micheal Martin and Michael McGrath , EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, ahead of a press conference following their meeting at Government Buildings in Dublin, over the 20% tariff on imports from the EU announced by US president Donald Trump. The Taoiseach said he is concerned about the impact on investments and jobs in Ireland, the EU, and across the world, saying investors will keep their head below the parapet until the fallout over US tariffs settles down. The Fianna Fail leader said he deeply regrets the decision by Mr Trump to impose the tariffs, saying there is no justification for them. He disputed the figures cited by the US to justify the imposition of tariffs, saying they do not reflect the reality of the situation as we see it. Mr Martin said that Ireland and the EU will weather this storm in the face of US tariffs, but said they will have an adverse impact. He said the next step will be negotiations. Asked whether he believes Ireland could survive a recession, Mr Martin said: I think we have to see how that plays out over the next while. Real problem The real problem is, though, the imposition of tariffs on such a wide scale and at a high level across the world will have a dampening effect on investment, and that in itself could create recessionary sort of trends across the world. Im worried more about the global impact of this and the impact on investments, the pausing of investments, perhaps, and investors generally, keeping the head below the parapet until this settles down. That is a problem. Sentiment matters. Psychology matters. Businesspeople and investors want certainty, stability, predictability. They dont have that at the moment, and thats my overarching concern. The impact was likened to the Great Depression by Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers. He said: The last time the scope or extent that this was tried globally in trading terms was around 1930, which led to the Great Depression. In fact, the tariffs that are being imposed now are in excess of that. Mr Martin was among senior Government figures to suggest the tariffs were an opening bid for negotiations. He said: The feedback so far from the US is, our sense is, that negotiations is the preferred route forward. The next 48 hours will tell a lot. What I get from the presidents speech is very much sort of wanting to engage, and signalling a desire to engage, to negotiate a sensible settlement here. Strategy He also said the EU and Ireland will not be shy in advocating for their interests as part of negotiations. No country is going to be shy and Ireland will not be shy in saying, in terms of our interests, but also strategy, he said. I think the strategy is the key issue here, in terms of designing counter-measures that would have the desired impact of bringing people to the table and enabling negotiations. Mr Lutnick, a vocal critic of Ireland, said Mr Trump is not going to back off on the tariffs, which he described as a reordering of global trade. Mr Lutnick told CNN the US president would only make a new deal with affected countries if they change everything about themselves, in a reference to tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers in particular VAT. Irelands European Commissioner Michael McGrath, who also attended a press conference in Dublin alongside Mr Martin, said the EU is ready to negotiate with the US. A man has been charged and is due to appear in court following a robbery in Broadale on Wednesday. A man entered a commercial premises on Maryborough Hill with a suspected firearm. A quantity of cash was stolen and he left the scene. A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said: "Gardai investigating an armed robbery at a commercial premises in Cork have arrested and charged a man. "Gardai in Cork were alerted to an armed robbery in Broadale, Cork on the evening of Wednesday 2nd April 2025. "Shortly before 6:30pm, a male entered a commercial premises on Maryborough Hill with a suspected firearm. A quantity of cash was stolen and the male left the scene. "No injuries were reported. "A male in his 40s was arrested a short time later at a nearby location and was detained under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act 1939 at a Garda Station in Cork city. "He has since been charged, and is scheduled to appear before Cork District Court this morning, Friday 4th April 2025. "Investigations are ongoing." The jury in the case against a thirteen-year-old boy and a fifteen-year-old boy accused of raping a 16-year-old girl at a Christmas race meeting in Limerick commenced their deliberations this morning. Mr Justice Paul McDermot told the eleven-person jury that there was no time constraint on them and that they should take as much time as they needed. During the closing speeches by the prosecution and the defence lawyers and in the judges charge to the jury they were told that in effect they should think of the case as three trials as there are three different defendants, and that the cases are simply being held together as a matter of convenience. Two of the teenagers are accused of raping and sexually assaulting the 16-year-old girl. The third defendant is charged with aiding and abetting them and falsely imprisoning the girl in a car. Mr Justice Paul McDermott addressed the two men and nine women of the jury on legal principles pertaining to the case and also summarised evidence which they heard since the trial commenced on March 11. One of the twelve jurors sworn in on that date became ill during the trial and was discharged from hearing the case against three teenagers. It is alleged that the contested incidents occurred in a car in a field car park at Limerick racecourse at Patrickswell, County Limerick, on December 26 2022. Dean Kelly, prosecution senior counsel, said the three defendants acted as a group in carrying out the offences with which they are charged. Defence senior counsels, Tom Creed, Vincent Heneghan and Brian McInerney, for the three defendants said the prosecution had not reached the point of proving any of the counts beyond reasonable doubt. The defence also said that by the complainants own account she did consent to some interaction that afternoon. They argued that while the prosecution said it was consent up to a point, it was not clear where that point was. The disputed events in the car relate to a period of somewhere between 20 and 40 minutes, the prosecution allege. Mr Kelly, prosecution senior counsel, said at the outset that it may be the most normal thing for a juror to have sympathies for the complainant, or for the accused because they are so young, but he said they must approach their work as jurors coldly and dispassionately. A planning application for a new 180 bed hotel close to the south docklands in Cork city centre has been lodged. The development, if granted permission, will see the demolition and removal of existing structures, described as vacant commercial buildings and the construction of a hotel at Lower Oliver Plunkett St, and Connell St. The hotel will range in height from five to 10 storeys above ground level and comprise 180 bed spaces, a gym, reception area, kitchen, and a breakfast/dining area. The planning permission also consists of associated ancillary development works, including an ESB sub-station, plant/tanks at basement level, and plant/external pumps at roof level. The planning application has been lodged by StarStone Property Group, who have undertaken many large scale projects across Ireland including office, residential, retail, and short term accommodation developments. The Cork application is currently at the pre-validation stage, and a decision by council on the development is due by May 21 this year. The hotel would sit at 1 Connell St, formerly home to a garage and a warehouse building, but both are now vacant and the building has fallen into disrepair. It is one of the only low height buildings in the part of town it occupies, at the junction of Connell St and Oliver Plunkett St. It is bordered by multiple office buildings, and across the street from where the 15-storey Prism building was meant to be built. The Prism development is currently stalled due to a reduced need for office space following the pandemic, with an application for a five year extension to the planning permission recently turned down by Cork City Council. After Susan McCarthy finished her time as a Fine Gael councillor in East Cork following the local elections in June, it didnt take her long to decide on what she would like to do next. In her childhood she had dreamed of being a teacher in a one room school in Africa. Last year she finally realised her dream in a manner of speaking. The former councillor spoke to The Echo about a month she spent in East Kenya as part of a Harambee group organised by Brighter Communities Worldwide, a Cobh-based charity working in partnership with local communities for more than two decades. Harambee is the Swahili word for togetherness and it is this which guides the work of the Brighter Communities Worldwide charity, a body which began working in Kericho County in Kenya, 23 years ago. Former Fine Gael councillor Susan McCarthy spent a month on a 'Harambee' - the Swahili word for togetherness - in Kenya last year after she had stepped down from Cork County Council. She said it made a hugely positive impact on her and has recommended others to try it. After spending November there, Susan is keen to go back and would wholeheartedly recommend anyone to answer the call being made at present by Brighter Communities Worldwide seeking recruits for this years Harambee which will take place in November again. Without any doubt in mind I can say I will be back. I think the bonds that you make with the people you work with over there, you become so embedded in life over there. Its an alternate life to your own but its something you will always remember and always have a desire to go back to. You dont have to give your life to it. There were people on it for whom it was a once in a lifetime thing and they benefitted and gained as much they gave...you also benefit more than you think youre going to benefit from it, its an amazing experience. Susan said she did wonder how much she was actually contributing while she was in East Kenya as she was only going to be there for a month. Its very inspiring for the people out to there to see people coming out to them, into their homes, building a stove and physically working or coming into one of their church halls and sitting down with them and working through different projects. She gave details into how one of the projects entailed taking old T-shirts and turning them into reusable underwear that women can use during menstruation. These very simple things to us are absolutely life-changing a lot of them have to stay at home during that time of the month, they dont have the money to buy pads, theyre the same price over there as over here, its beyond their means. They have to stay home where they lie with a rag between their legs you give them the basic materials, a needle, a bar of soap, some old rags and whatever and you give them a pack with all of these in it with instructions and a template. Because they now have underwear which they can use when theyre menstruating, they dont have to miss days at work, which means they will get paid for those days. This is really vital for us to understand, they will miss out of school every month and will fall behind and then its a case of Im not able to keep up with my schoolwork anyway, I may as well go and earn for my family. Susan McCarthy made great friendships during her time on the Harambee in Kenya. They miss out on educational opportunities because of it, things as simple as that, its a chain reaction. By ensuring that they have the very basic materials they need and the knowhow, it opens up the opportunity to stay in schools. According to Susan, these are people who are well educated, culturally aware and who may not have the skills or diversification of farming we have here its just a different culture, not that theyre different to us. She described those she met as eager and willing to learn and willing to get themselves out of poverty. Theyre not feeling sorry for themselves, they do with what they have and very small things make a big difference. Theres an awful lot of fundraising being done in health by BCW, theyre opening up a trauma wing in the hospital. Another huge issue is the quality of water as water borne diseases can have a devastating impact. Getting clean water to them is hugely beneficial in terms of health, she said. So many water borne diseases cause major health issues in these communities and getting safe clean water to them whether its as simple as a bore hole or going further and developing a water treatment system for a whole village. Either way they make a big difference in these communities. The time she spent in Africa, albeit short, has made an impact on Susan. I didnt expect to be so emotional on my return home, I really didnt, but my experience in Kenya was truly incredible, she said. It has given me a healthier perspective on life and an even greater understanding that accumulating goods is not the key to happiness in life. Obviously, you do revert back to the western way of life, but personally speaking I now find that I am more mindful about what I purchase for example, and have definitely taken a step back. I saw how people can live on very, very little and that is both humbling and hugely inspiring. The people might not have much, but what they do have, they wish to share with you. I remember we would bring packed lunches every day going out to the communities on the various programmes, and though you would tell them you have your own food, they would insist that you join them and have some ugali for lunch. And you were never far away from a mug of chai with a mendazi as a treat. The people made the experience for me. They are wonderful people; so incredibly dignified, gracious and giving. I would really encourage people to go and volunteer, even for a short time as I did. Brighter Communities Worldwide is a small charity but with a large impact, literally, and it is wonderful to see how real lasting change is not only possible but attainable. I would say that going there has enriched my life and I cant wait to go back. I would go back tomorrow in a heartbeat. The Brighter Communities Worldwide NGO has been a catalyst for development in Kenya kick starting opportunities to encourage people, partnerships and what they describe as true develop can flourish. Susan McCarthy from Midleton in Kenya on the Harambee organised by Brighter Communities Worldwide. The concept of partnership is at the heart of the charitys work as it seeks to empower communities to realise their dreams of personal and economic freedom through the provision of support and friendship. This collaborative approach is in evidence in the Brighter Communities Worldwide Health, Education, Economic Empowerment and Water Programmes. Over the decades since its foundation in the early years of this millennium, it has undertaken healthcare projects with a particular focus on reproductive health for girls. It has also taken on projects to provide clean water in villages and freeing up girls from walking long distances to fetch water daily, as well as building toilet facilities at schools, which helps to keep girls in school. The charitys Girls for Girls programme helps to educate girls about menstrual health, income generation and the importance of staying at school every day of the month. The charity also provides educational bursaries to keep girls in school and runs an alternative Rites of Passage programme which also helps in reducing the incidence of female genital mutilation. The jury in the trial of a man accused of murdering his wife by slashing her throat at their home in Wilton spent all of today listening to an address from the judge on legal issues in the case and a summary of the evidence. Ms Justice Siobhan Lankford told the jury to return to the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork on Monday when the summarising of evidence will continue. So far, the judge has reminded them of all of the evidence they have heard from the prosecution and on Monday she will go through the evidence of the defence, which consisted of the accused man himself giving direct evidence and being cross-examined. And there were two brief witnesses from India who gave evidence by video link on the accused and his employment in India over a number of years. Regin Parithapara Rajan (43), denies the single charge of murdering his wife, 38-year-old Deepa Paruthiyezhuth Dinamani at their home at Cardinal Court, Wilton, Cork, on July 14, 2023. Prosecution senior counsel Sean Gillane urged the jury to examine the evidence of the accused man purchasing the carving knife two days before his wifes death and to consider the Google searches made by Regin Rajan including searches in relation to carving knives and prison conditions in Ireland before July 14, 2023. Defence senior counsel Brian McInerney said to the jury: It is a tragic case, it an awful case, a human life has been lost but I would urge you to consider this is not a cold-blooded intentional killing, it is not murder. Whatever it is, it is not murder. I urge you not to find him guilty of murder. The case continues. Children in Cork are being hooked into drug gangs, a former lord mayor and community activist has said. It comes following comments made by Independent Ireland TD for Cork North Central Ken OFlynn who raised the issue in the Dail on Thursday, saying: We have a situation in Cork where children as young as eight are being used as drug mules. Children as young as eight are knocking on doors and threatening people because they cannot be prosecuted. They are getting a couple of bags of sweets or a can of Coke after as their reward for threatening Mary and telling her they are going to burn out her car. Chris OLeary, former lord mayor of Cork and a community activist for almost 40 years, told The Echo that the solution was proper resourcing of community gardai and youth programmes. He said: It is very prevalent in communities right across Cork, not just disadvantaged communities. I know children who have been hooked into gangs, what happens is theyre encouraged to do little jobs, starting off with small things, and theyre rewarded. He explained: These gangs get to know the young person very well, theyre very organised, and they tell them its OK if you get stopped, nothing will happen to you because of your age, youll be taken home and maybe get a telling off in front of your parents, but you wont go to jail. Parents need to be mindful of where their children are going, who they are hanging around with Im always worried when theres a child of eight hanging around with a 15-year-old. You might even see in certain families that older children are pressurised to get their little brothers or sisters to do some of the running, and the older sibling gets a payoff. Something Ive also observed quite clearly in certain areas of the city is adults driving up in cars and a young person gets out and goes to meet someone around the corner for a drop. Mr OLeary said that more community gardai are needed as currently they are very weak on the ground. Keeping their role separate to that of ordinary gardai is necessary for the work they do, he said, explaining: We cant have a community garda, who has been working hard to build a relationship with young people and divert them away from these gangs, coming in to arrest someone. Ive known some fantastic community gardai in the city who are on first-name terms with everyone, go to the schools and clubs, can chat to children if they see them hanging around with older kids, thats the kind of stuff that makes a difference. The Echo contacted An Garda Siochana for comment. Having had two surgeries back-to-back, I recently found myself manoeuvring around with the aid of two crutches. Wonderful things once you get the hang of them. That is, wonderful things until its time to leave the security of your house and venture into the big, bad world on your own. So, I decided put on my grown-up pants and got a lift as far as the bus stop in Macroom, to catch the No.40 into Cork city, to see how I got on. I sat among all the college students heading for UCC and MTU to navigate their education, while I hoped to simply navigate the city without falling down. Never before had I noticed that the last step of the bus was so far from the ground. Neither had I previously noticed how dirty the ground is. Adrienne said care is needed on crumbling back streets and paths. With two feet and two crutches, the amount of sidestepping around dog poo, chewing gum, fag ends, and spittle leaves you doing a strange dance from side to side in order to keep yourself and your hardware as clean as possible. Having said that, maybe a bit of chewing gum stuck to the bottom of the crutches would be an advantage, as I found the paths along Patrick Street are so slippery when wet that the crutches kept sliding from under me. I wasnt alone. Another lady with a walking stick on the street caught my eye and we gave each other a knowing look, a look of solidarity on this slippery ground. I met up with my friend, in her wheelchair, and she showed me the city through her eyes. On to the South Mall. This was where the reality of having a disability hit home. It was fine for me with just crutches, but many of the buildings are not easily accessible for wheelchair users. Im sure if you made a scene outside, someone might find a way to get you in, but where is the dignity in that, I ask you? Its so frustrating and demeaning, my friend told me, and it didnt end there. We went across to Princes Street, where she pointed out that the place can be completely off limits to her during the summer months, not because there are tables and chairs outside restaurants, but because there are often too many menu boards and signs along the footpaths. Cobbles are beautiful but small wheels on wheelchairs can get stuck in them, said Adrienne. And if I cant go down this street, neither can those that are with me, it makes my disability a problem for everyone, said my friend. Along to the Coal Quay, where we had to go half the length of the street before finding a spot to come off the footpath. Something Id never have noticed in my fitter days. My friend showed me the street signs and road signage poles that block the footpaths, and the cobbles may look lovely, but the small wheels on the front of her chair get stuck and twisted in them. I carried on my hobble around the city, and found that you have to be extra-alert. Not only do you have to avoid all the filth on the street (this includes vomit), but you have to keep your eyes open for people who have their face stuck into their phones and are liable to knock you over. Heres the other side of this story. I went into Dunnes in Merchants Quay for my breakfast, where Vicky organised what I needed for me and carried my tray to the table without a bother. The escalator was under repairs, but before I had even a moment to worry about getting upstairs, a member of the shopping mall team directed me to a lift. SERVICE WITH A SMILE: Helpful Vicky and Angelo in the Dunnes cafe in Merchants Quay I popped into McDonalds for a coffee and the lady at the counter (Denise Wethers) insisted on carrying it to a table for me. My bus driver on the way home complimented me on how well I was managing and asked if I needed any help. Everywhere I went, people opened doors and made no fuss. At Wilton Shopping Centre, my friend and I went into Penneys for a few bits. While browsing, a member of staff told me not to join the queue but to head straight for till number 10. There, they opened the till and allowed my friend pay for her purchases there too. It is a very commendable policy. Outside Penneys, we had coffee in one of the cafes where the server insisted that I sit down and she would bring what I wanted over without me having to queue. So, my verdict is this. The people of Cork are amazing. Theyre kind and thoughtful and treat you in the best manner they can to make life as easy as possible. However, the state of some of the city streets and footpaths is shameful, and some of the businesses need a rethink on how they do things, in order to include everyone. And the litter is just as disgusting as ever it was, whether youre on crutches or not. The U.S burger and fries chain, Wendys, has chosen Cork as the first place to plant its flag in Ireland. People are, generally, not happy about it. We probably dont need another burger joint, pizza place or chicken shop, but the stats say otherwise. In November, 2024, it was reported that for every 100,000 people in Ireland, there were 28.5 fast food outlets. Burgers, pizza and chicken shops are booming with major chains enjoying an expansion of the market share by 3% since 2023. Our takeaway and fast-food habit is often linked to time pressure. Bord Bia reported in 2020 that 10% of all evening meals were take away or home delivery, rising to 15% at weekends. Almost half of us havent planned what the next evening meal will be which is fertile ground for throwing in the towel and grabbing a fast bite instead. But before there is a collective clutching of pearls, its probably worth remembering that our fast-food guilty pleasures have long been part of the citys food landscape. Dare I say Cork invented fast food culture in Ireland? Cork has ambitions to become the World Gastronomic Capital by 2030. Its a lofty goal, but what does it mean to be gastronomic? For me, it means understanding how we all interact with local food and food culture. It shouldnt include only fine dining restaurants and the very best of the best of artisan produce to the exclusion of all else, because that kind of food is not accessible to everyone. Thats to say it should be in the reach of everyone, but right now it isnt. When it comes to food tourism (ultimately what this accolade seeks to tap into), a key aspiration for visitors is to have an authentic food experience, particularly those that enable visitors to find a way to access local flavour. In Cork, local flavour can be the artisan food producer, the ground-breaking restaurant, the street food favourite, local market, the characterful pub, or the best place to grab a sandwich. Its old and new rubbing shoulders and welcoming everyone, and when we talk about food culture, it might not always be about the pinnacle of what food can be, but rather the collective experience. Kate says food tourism must be able to do both the artisan and popular culture food experiences. In Cork, that might be grabbing a late-night slice from Fast Als or a Hillbillys Snack Box (with gravy); a smash burger from Yellow Submarine or loaded sausage sambo from OFlynns. Lest we forget those misty-eyed and queuing at Lennoxs as it fried its final battered cod. These are all local food culture phenomena but originated as international imports to Cork Citys food landscape. Yet they hold resonance for an Eat Like a Local food experience although different to the wider artisan food producing ethos of Cork. Both Fast Als and Hillbillys were established following experiences of Corkonians travelling abroad and bringing back exciting tastes of America (the New York Slice Shop, since 2003, and South American recipe deep fried chicken, since 1997).This was at a time when we were all enjoying the roar of the Celtic Tiger. Ireland was opening to the world, and the world was opening to Ireland, and there was an ebb and flow of food cultures in and out of Cork. Fast Als and Hillbillys are a rite of passage for every Corkonian whether you were born and raised here or freshly landed. They are the late-night saviours of every merry Corkonian fresh from a few cheeky creamy Beamys on a school night with an absolute goo on you for a slice of double pepperoni. It galls me no end that Dublin has claimed the title of being home to Irelands first slice shop when Bambino blew up Instagram. I said as much to a fellow (Dublin-based) foodie friend, and they just laughed at me. They just wont be told, but of course we know better. Look, Im sure theres a case to argue that Dublins Insta-worthy Chimac Korean Fried Chicken is at least on par as our home-grown Hillbillys, but dont be wasting your breath on it. I can clearly remember, and with huge fondness, when OFlynns first began cooking their delicious sausages in the English Market. They have been making their gourmet sausages since 1921 but were the first to offer cooked food to go in the English Market from a tiny little corner stall in the mid-noughties. Its not exactly a salubrious and roomy spot even today, but back then it was basically a table and a frying pan. The smell of sausages and frying onions hit you the moment you walked into the market, and today even with a store on Winthrop Street and a new location opposite UCC on Washington Street there is always a mighty queue of salivating punters waiting to place their order for a loaded gourmet sausage sandwich. Lets not forget the absolute lengths the lads from The Yellow Submarine went to bring their gospel of Beatles-themed smashburgers to as many inches of Cork as they could. The big yellow food truck seemed to be broken down at the side of the road more often than it was motoring, but still the crowds came and do still come, now they have set down roots and opened their bricks and mortar burger joint in downtown Fermoy. Somehow, food tourism must be able to do both the artisan and popular culture food experiences. The latter often acts as an accessible, affordable gateway to understanding that there is a deeper gastronomy at play. But it is the storytelling behind these particular fast-food joints that provide authentic context for why they are so rooted in the food culture of Cork city. So, why is there such furore about Irelands first Wendys? It cannot be the food they are peddling because we love a bit of it clearly. So, is it because its not home-grown? Or that theres no back story? Maybe. But really, its just not Cork enough, like. Eva Osborne Dublin fire brigade staff helped bring a baby into the world on the N2 this week. Crews from Finglas and Phibsborough were on hand to assist in the delivery of the little girl on Thursday morning. All involved are said to be doing well. Sean McCarthaigh An appeal by the family of George Nkencho against the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions that no garda should face prosecution over his fatal shooting by armed officers in Dublin over four years ago was unsuccessful, an inquest has heard. A sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court heard that an internal review within the DPPs office had upheld the original decision that no criminal proceedings should arise out of the death of Mr Nkencho. The 27-year-old suffered fatal gunshot wounds during an incident involving members of the Garda Armed Support Unit outside his family home at Manorfields Drive, Clonee, Co Dublin on December 30th, 2020. The lead investigator with the Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission (Gsoc) in the case, Stuart Duguid, told the coroner, Myra Cullinane, during a brief hearing on Friday that no further criminal proceedings were being contemplated following the review of the DPPs decision and the inquest into Mr Nkenchos death could proceed. George Nkencho's family claim he was suffering from mental health issues for several months before his death. Photo: PA Dr Cullinane noted that Mr Nkenchos relatives had been provided with a summary of the DPPs reasons that there should be no prosecution in July 2024. The family then formally requested a review of the decision the following month with the formal review process commencing last September. The deceaseds mother, Blessing Nkencho who was accompanied by one of her sons, Victor, at Fridays hearing declined to comment on the outcome of their appeal to the DPP. We dont want to say anything at this point, said Ms Nkencho. Dr Cullinane also addressed an application made previously by counsel for Gsoc, Marc Thompson BL, for the body (which has recently been renamed Fiosru the Office of the Police Ombudsman) to have legal representation at the forthcoming full inquest about which she acknowledged she had reservations. The coroner observed that many tragic deaths were investigated by Gsoc and it was perfectly acceptable that the organisation assisted her in holding inquests. Dr Cullinane said Gsoc was very effective and she was very grateful for all its assistance. However, the coroner had previously observed that it would be potentially unnecessarily complex if Gsoc was represented as an interested party at the inquest when it had been assisting her office in the investigation into Mr Nkenchos death. The inquest heard other parties had not had an opportunity to consider a late submission by Gsoc to the coroner about why it should be granted legal representation at Mr Nkenchos inquest. Counsel for An Garda Siochana, Frank Kennedy BL, and counsel for the deceaseds family, Seoirse Fennessy BL, both applied for an adjournment of the matter in order to take instructions. Dr Cullinane directed that submissions from the two parties should be received by her office by May 9th and she adjourned the issue for mention to May 16th. The coroner observed that Mr Nkenchos family were frustrated at how long it was taking to hold the inquest, although they understood the reason for the delay. Dr Cullinane remarked that there had already been a significant number of adjournments since the inquest was first opened in June 2021. She also noted that Gsoc were engaging with local authorities about assembling a jury from the electoral list to hear the inquest. Dr Cullinane pointed out that gardai were normally responsible for assembling juries for inquests by coroners but noted there were some concerns about that where An Garda Siochana were involved in the circumstances of a death. The coroner also advised the parties that it would be a difficult inquest to convene in fixing a date for the full hearing. The fatal shooting of Mr Nkencho outside his home in west Dublin occurred after a stand-off developed between gardai and the deceased who was armed with a kitchen knife. The tense situation arose shortly after Mr Nkencho had been involved in an incident at a local Eurospar store where he assaulted a shop assistant. The young man, whose family come originally from Nigeria, was pronounced dead a short time later at Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown. Post-mortem results revealed he died as a result of multiple gunshot wounds to the torso. His family claim he was suffering from mental health issues for several months before his death and that the level of force used against him by gardai was disproportionate. Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. The State of Maryland is suing the makers of Gore-Tex waterproof clothing for polluting the drinking water of residents living around the companys rural Maryland facilities with toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) forever chemicals. The WL Gore and Associates facilities, located roughly 90 miles from Baltimore, have been polluting residents water with PFAS levels as high as 700 times the federal limit, reported The Guardian. At the same time that Gore was profiting from the products it manufactured in Maryland, it knew for decades that PFOA was toxic and posed significant risks to human health and the environment and failed to warn the State or the communities living around its facilities of the dangers posed by its PFAS. Instead, Gore concealed those dangers to protect its corporate image and limit its liability, the states complaint alleges. The companys acts and omissions surrounding PFAS released into the environment from its facilities have contaminated not only residents drinking water, but the areas surface water, groundwater, wildlife, soil, sediment, other natural resources and state property. Maryland residents living near Gores facilities have been and continue to be exposed to PFAS through contaminated drinking water and ingestion or inhalation of contaminated soil and dust, among other ways, the complaint says. Exposure to the contaminated water led to high rates of cancer and other illnesses, a separate class action suit by about 4,000 people claims. Both lawsuits say the company was aware of the dangers of its products as far back as the 1980s, but did nothing to stop the pumping of PFAS into local waters which flow into Chesapeake Bay and emissions of the dangerous chemicals from smokestacks. Gore said it only became aware of the presence of hazardous perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) a common PFAS compound in area groundwater two years ago, suggesting it was not responsible for all of the pollution. Attorney for the plaintiffs Philip Federico dismissed the claim, pointing out that the chemicals detected in the water were the same as those used by Gore. Theyre really not in a position to say its not their PFAS they know it is, and everyone else knows it, Federico said, as The Guardian reported. A class of roughly 15,000 chemicals, PFAS are often used to make water-, stain- and heat-resistant products. They accumulate in the environment, wildlife and humans, and have been associated with many serious health issues, including kidney disease, immune disorders, birth defects, liver problems and cancer. In 2023, the United States Environmental Protection Agency found that there was almost no level of PFOA in drinking water that was safe. Gore used PFOA in the production of PTFE another PFAS that the company then applied to products like clothing, furniture, carpets and food packaging. Gore said it was working with state regulators and providing filtration systems or drinking water to some residents. Gore denies the allegations in the various lawsuits that have been recently filed. We have been and will remain committed to the health and safety of our Associates, our community, and the environment, a statement on the companys website said. The lawsuit described how the PFAS industry had knowledge during the 1970s that the chemicals were harmful, with an executive at Gore knowing by at least 1990. The company continued to tell employees the substances were safe even as they got sick with PFAS-associated diseases and some died from them. The suit claims the company essentially lied to regulators starting in 1995 and later destroyed documents that detailed its pollution. Maryland therefore brings this action to hold Gore responsible for the consequences of Gores releases of PFOA and other PFAS into Maryland for more than 50 years. Despite its knowledge regarding the potential risks to human health and the environment, and its awareness of the need to abate and mitigate PFAS releases from its Maryland operations, Gore failed, for decades, to prevent PFAS releases into the air, lands, and waters around its facilities, Marylands complaint reads. The class action suit, along with the lawsuit by the state of Maryland, demands that Gore pay for cleanup and medical costs; foot the bill for water utility upgrades; and provide residents with clean water, among other measures. Gores actions have contaminated the States natural resources and have put Maryland residents health at risk. Through this complaint, the State seeks to (a) recover all past and future costs to investigate, remediate, and restore lands and waters of the State contaminated by PFOA and other PFAS discharged and emitted from Gores 13 facilities in and around Elkton; (b) abate the public nuisance created by Gores PFAS emissions, discharges, and releases; and (c) obtain damages for injuries resulting from the contamination, the states complaint says. Correction: An earlier version of this article mistakenly referred to attorney for the plaintiffs Philip Federico as attorney for the state. (Photo: Elvis Gorica/Orthodox Church of Albania)Archbishop Ioannis of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania who was enthroned at the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral, Tirana, Albania, on March 29, 2025. Albania's Orthodox Church has enthroned new Archbishop Ioannis of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania, the newly elected primate of the Orthodox Church of Albania, a church that withstood attempts to decimate it during the communist era. He was enthroned on March 29 in the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Tirana, the World Council of Churches reported. The historic moment marked a new era for the Orthodox Church of Albania, following the passing of the late Archbishop Anastasios, a champion of the ecumenical movement. The ceremony was held in the presence of representatives from Orthodox churches, diplomatic missions, religious leaders, government officials, and a multitude of faithful. The encyclical of the Holy Synod, appointing the new archbishop, was read by Bishop Anastasios of Kruje, followed by the official enthronement service and a series of addresses. Metropolitan Nikolaos of Apollonia and Fier was the first to address the new primate, handing him the pastoral staff on behalf of the Holy Synod. He was followed by Fr Alexios Donis, a clergyman of the Archdiocese of Tirana, and then by Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon, representing Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. The final address was delivered by the president of the Republic of Albania, Bajram Begaj. In his enthronement speech, Archbishop Ioannis expressed deep gratitude to God and to all who had contributed to the progress of the Church of Albania. "During the second half of the 20th century, the Church faced atrocious communist persecution," said the archbishop. "The entire material and human infrastructure were destroyed. Churches and monasteries were demolished or turned into stables, warehouses, etc. The persecutors demolished the outer walls, but they could not destroy the faith within the hearts of the people. - THOUSANDS PERSECUTED "Thousands of pious men and women were persecuted and exhausted because of their faith, and many even gave their lives. It was precisely the testimony of these people that inspired thousands of others to keep the Christian faith and make it the centre of their lives. "By their example, they fulfilled the Lord's promise that "on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it." (Matthew 16:17-18). The archbishop said that at the end of the 20th century, the Orthodox Church, like all other religious communities in the country, found itself completely destroyed and "her rebirth seemed like an impossible mission." Ioannis thanked the martyrs of Illyria, who spread the light of faith throughout the regions we now live in through their blood and lives; the saints who kept the flame of faith alive across the centuries; and the new martyrs, who, during an especially difficult time for the Church and the country, gave their lives to preserve their faith, national identity, and language. He made special mention of his predecessors, particularly Fan Noli and Archbishop Anastasios, of whom he said: "Not only did he succeed in rebuilding the church's physical structure and infrastructure, but his greatest effort was to cultivate a church where God is worshipped 'in spirit and in truth.'" Archbishop Ioannis outlined seven main priorities for his ministry. These are: the preservation of Holy Tradition, the strengthening of unity within the church, the balance between the "Gospel of the Kingdom" and the "Social Gospel," the protection of the values of marriage and family, the preservation and promotion of interreligious coexistence in Albania, the encouragement of young people to love and remain in their homeland, and the cultivation of relationships with other churches and religious communities. New York, US (PANA) - The Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel painted a mixed picture of the region, which is facing a growing terrorist threat but also political progress and encouraging initiatives Following the release of rival Anthropic's Claude for Education, OpenAI has announced that its $20 ChatGPT Plus tier will be free for college students until the end of May. The offer comes just in time for final exams and will provide features like OpenAI's most advanced LLM, GPT-4o and an all-new image generation tool. "We are offering a Plus discount for students on a limited-time basis in the US and Canada," the company wrote in a FAQ. "This is an experimental consumer program and we may or may not expand this to more schools and countries over time." On top of the aforementioned features, ChatGPT Plus will offer students benefits like priority access during peak usage times and higher message limits. It'll also grant them access to OpenAI's Deep Research, a tool that can create reports from hundreds of online sources. AI tools have been widely adopted by students for research and other uses, with open AI recently saying that a third of young adults aged 18-24 already use ChatGPT, with much of that directed toward studies. Anthropic is going even farther than OpenAI to tap into that market with Claude for Education, by introducing a Learning mode specifically designed to guide students to a solution, rather than providing answers outright. Where Anthropic is positioning itself more as a tutor to students, OpenAI is simply giving them access to its most powerful research tools. That brings up the subject of academic integrity and whether AI tools are doing work that students should be doing themselves. Anthropic's approach may be more palatable to institutions along with its Claude for Education launch, the company announced that it partnered with several universities and colleges to make the new product free for students. Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . Now that Mint has been shut down, here are the best six budgeting apps to help you spend and save wisely. As a former Mint user, I had to find a new budgeting app not too long ago. Intuit, parent company of Mint, shut down the service in March 2024, and prompted users to transition to its other financial app, Credit Karma. However, after testing Credit Karma myself, I found it to be a poor Mint replacement that meant I needed to branch out and look elsewhere for a trusted app to track all of my financial accounts, monitor my credit score, follow a monthly spending plan and set goals like building a rainy-day fund and paying down my mortgage faster. I tried out Mint's top competitors in the hopes that I'd be able to find a new budgeting app that could handle all of my financial needs. Hopefully my journey can help you find the best budgeting app for you and your money as well. Best budget apps of 2025 Quicken Best budget app overall Quicken Simplifi No pun intended, but what I like about Quicken Simplifi is its simplicity. Whereas other budgeting apps try to distinguish themselves with dark themes and customizable emoji, Simplifi has a clean user interface, with a landing page that you just keep scrolling through to get a detailed overview of all your stats. These include your top-line balances; net worth; recent spending; upcoming recurring payments; a snapshot of your spending plan; top spending categories; achievements; and any watchlists youve set up. You can also set up savings goals elsewhere in the app. I also appreciate how it offers neat, almost playful visualizations without ever looking cluttered. I felt at home in the mobile and web dashboards after a day or so, which is faster than I adapted to some competing services (Im looking at you, YNAB and Monarch). Getting set up with Simplifi was mostly painless. I was particularly impressed at how easily it connected to Fidelity; not all budget trackers do, for whatever reason. This is also one of the only services I tested that gives you the option of inviting a spouse or financial advisor to co-manage your account. One thing I would add to my initial assessment of the app, having used it for a few months now: I wish Simplifi offered Zillow integration for easily tracking your home value (or at least a rough estimate of it). Various competitors including Monarch Money and Copilot Money work with Zillow, so clearly there's a Zillow API available for use. As it stands, Simplifi users must add real estate manually like any other asset. In practice, Simplifi miscategorized some of my expenses, but nothing out of the ordinary compared to any of these budget trackers. As youre reviewing transactions, you can also mark if youre expecting a refund, which is a unique feature among the services I tested. Simplifi also estimated my regular income better than some other apps I tested. Most of all, I appreciated the option of being able to categorize some, but not all, purchases from a merchant as recurring. For instance, I can add my two Amazon subscribe-and-saves as recurring payments, without having to create a broad-strokes rule for every Amazon purchase. The budgeting feature is also self-explanatory. Just check that your regular income is accurate and be sure to set up recurring payments, making note of which are bills and which are subscriptions. This is important because Simplifi shows you your total take-home income as well as an income after bills figure. That number includes, well, bills but not discretionary subscriptions. From there, you can add spending targets by category in the planned spending bucket. Planned spending can also include one-time expenditures, not just monthly budgets. When you create a budget, Simplifi will suggest a number based on a six-month average. Not dealbreakers, but two things to keep in mind as you get started: Simplifi is notable in that you cant set up an account through Apple or Google. There is also no option for a free trial, though Quicken promises a 30-day money back guarantee. Pros Easy-to-use app with a gentle learning curve Does a good job detecting recurring income and bills Less expensive than the competition Lets you share app access with a spouse or financial advisor Handy refund tracker Cons No free trial You can't create an account using your Apple or Google ID No Zillow integration $72/year at Quicken Monarch Money Runner up - best budget app Monarch Money Monarch Money grew on me. My first impression of the budgeting app, which was founded by a former Mint product manager, was that it's more difficult to use than others on this list, including Simplifi, NerdWallet and Copilot. And it is. Editing expense categories, adding recurring transactions and creating rules, for example, is a little more complicated than it needs to be, especially in the mobile app. (My advice: Use the web app for fine-tuning details.) Monarch also didnt get my income right; I had to edit it. Once youre set up, though, Monarch offers an impressive level of granularity. In the budgets section, you can see a bona fide balance sheet showing budgets and actuals for each category. You'll also find a forecast, for the year or by month. And recurring expenses can be set not just by merchant, but other parameters as well. For instance, while most Amazon purchases might be marked as shopping, those for the amounts of $54.18 or $34.18 are definitely baby supplies, and can be automatically marked as such each time, not to mention programmed as recurring payments. Weirdly, though, theres no way to mark certain recurring payments as bills, specifically. Not long after I first published this story in December 2023, Monarch introduced a detailed reporting section where you can create on-demand graphs based on things like accounts, categories and tags. That feature is available just on the web version of the app for now. As part of this same update, Monarch added support for an aggregator that makes it possible to automatically update the value of your car. This, combined with the existing Zillow integration for tracking your home value, makes it easy to quickly add a non-liquid asset like a vehicle or real estate, and have it show up in your net worth graph. The mobile app is mostly self-explanatory. The main dashboard shows your net worth; your four most recent transactions; a month-over-month spending comparison; income month-to-date; upcoming bills; an investments snapshot; a list of any goals youve set; and, finally, a link to your month-in-review. That month-in-review is more detailed than most, delving into cash flow; top income and expense categories; cash flow trends; changes to your net worth, assets and liabilities; plus asset and liability breakdowns. In February 2024, Monarch expanded on the net worth graph, so that if you click on the Accounts tab you can see how your net worth changed over different periods of time, including one month, three months, six months, a year or all time. On the main screen, youll also find tabs for accounts, transactions, cash flow, budget and recurring. Like many of the other apps featured here, Monarch can auto-detect recurring expenses and income, even if it gets the category wrong. (They all do to an extent.) Expense categories are marked by emoji, which you can customize if youre so inclined. Monarch Money uses a combination of networks to connect with banks, including Plaid, MX and Finicity, a competing network owned by Mastercard. (I have a quick explainer on Plaid, the industry standard in this space, toward the end of this guide.) As part of an update in late December, Monarch has also made it easier to connect through those other two networks, if for some reason Plaid fails. Similar to NerdWallet, I found myself completing two-factor authentication every time I wanted to get past the Plaid screen to add another account. Notably, Monarch is the only other app I tested that allows you to grant access to someone else in your family likely a spouse or financial advisor. Additionally, Monarch just added the ability to track Apple Card, Apple Cash, and Savings accounts, thanks to new functionality brought with the iOS 17.4 update. It's not the only one either; currently, Copilot and YNAB have also added similar functionality that will be available to anyone with the latest versions of their respective apps on a device running iOS 17.4. Instead of manually uploading statements, the new functionality allows apps like Monarch's to automatically pull in transactions and balance history. That should make it easier to account for spending on Apple cards and accounts throughout the month. Monarch also recently launched investment transactions in beta. It also says bill tracking and an overhauled goals system are coming soon. Monarch hasn't provided a timeline for that last one, except to say that the improved goals feature is coming soon. Pros Lots of detail and opportunities for customization Helpful goals feature You can grant account access to other people Chrome extension for importing from Mint Month-in-review recap is more thorough than most Car value syncing Zillow integration Cons Steeper learning curve than some other budget trackers The mobile app feels restricted and less intuitive than the web version Doesnt seem to distinguish between bills and other recurring expenses Some bugginess on mobile around creating rules for expense categories $50 a year at Monarch Money NerdWallet Best free budget app NerdWallet You may know NerdWallet as a site that offers a mix of personal finance news, explainers and guides. I see it often when I google a financial term I dont know and sure enough, its one of the sites Im most likely to click on. As it happens, NerdWallet also has the distinction of offering one of the only free budgeting apps I tested. In fact, there is no paid version; nothing is locked behind a paywall. The main catch: There are ads everywhere. Even with the inescapable credit card offers, NerdWallet has a clean, easy-to-understand user interface, which includes both a web and a mobile app. The key metrics that it highlights most prominently are your cash flow, net worth and credit score. I particularly enjoyed the weekly insights, which delve into things like where you spent the most money or how much you paid in fees and how that compares to the previous month. Because this is NerdWallet, an encyclopedia of financial info, you get some particularly specific category options when setting up your accounts (think: a Roth or non-Roth IRA). As a budgeting app, NerdWallet is more than serviceable, if a bit basic. Like other apps I tested, you can set up recurring bills. Importantly, it follows the popular 50/30/20 budgeting rule, which has you putting 50% of your budget toward things you need, 30% toward things you want, and the remaining 20% into savings or debt repayments. If this works for you, great just know that you cant customize your budget to the same degree as some competing apps. You cant currently create custom spending categories, though a note inside the dashboard section of the app says youll be able to customize them in the future. You also cant move items from the wants column to needs or vice versa but In the future, you'll be able to move specific transactions to actively manage what falls into each group. A NerdWallet spokesperson declined to provide an ETA, though. Lastly, its worth noting that NerdWallet had one of the most onerous setup processes of any app I tested. I dont think this is a dealbreaker, as youll only have to do it once and, hopefully, you arent setting up six or seven apps in tandem as I was. What made NerdWallets onboarding especially tedious is that every time I wanted to add an account, I had to go through a two-factor authentication process to even get past the Plaid splash screen, and thats not including the 2FA I had set up at each of my banks. This is a security policy on NerdWallets end, not Plaids, a Plaid spokesperson says. Precisely because NerdWallet is one of the only budget trackers to offer credit score monitoring, it also needs more of your personal info during setup, including your birthday, address, phone number and the last four digits of your social security number. Its the same with Credit Karma, which also does credit score monitoring. Related to the setup process, I found that NerdWallet was less adept than other apps at automatically detecting my regular income. In my case, it counted a large one-time wire transfer as income, at which point my only other option was to enter my income manually (which is slightly annoying because I would have needed my pay stub handy to double-check my take-home pay). Pros Free Easy to use Helpful weekly insights NerdWallet has a deep well of helpful financial explainers and guides One of the few options that offers credit score monitoring Cons Ads everywhere No customization for spending categories Less adept at detecting regular income One of the more tedious setup processes Free at NerdWallet Copilot Money Best up-and-comer budget app Copilot Money Copilot Money might be the best-looking budgeting app I tested. It also has the distinction of being exclusive to iOS and Macs at least for now. Andres Ugarte, the companys CEO, has publicly promised that Android and web apps are coming soon. But until it follows through, I cant recommend Copilot for most people with so many good competitors out there. There are other features that Copilot is missing, which Ill get into. But it is promising, and one to keep an eye on. Its just a fast, efficient, well designed app, and Android users will be in for a treat when theyll finally be able to download it. It makes good use of colors, emoji and graphs to help you understand at a glance how youre doing on everything from your budgets to your investment performance to your credit card debt over time. In particular, Copilot does a better job than almost any other app of visualizing your recurring monthly expenses. Behind those punchy colors and cutesy emoji, though, is some sophisticated performance. Copilots AI-powered Intelligence gets smarter as you go at categorizing your expenses. (You can also add your own categories, complete with your choice of emoji.) Its not perfect. Copilot miscategorized some purchases (they all do), but it makes it easier to edit than most. On top of that, the internal search feature is very fast; it starts whittling down results in your transaction history as soon as you begin typing. Copilot is also unique in offering Amazon and Venmo integrations, allowing you to see transaction details. With Amazon, this requires just signing into your Amazon account via an in-app browser. For Venmo, you have to set up fwd@copilot.money as a forwarding address and then create a filter, wherein emails from venmo@venmo.com are automatically forwarded to fwd@copilot.money. Like Monarch Money, you can also add any property you own and track its value through Zillow, which is integrated with the app. While the app is heavily automated, I still appreciate that Copilot marks new transactions for review. Its a good way to both weed out fraudulent charges, and also be somewhat intentional about your spending habits. Like Monarch Money, Copilot updated its app to make it easier to connect to banks through networks other than Plaid. As part of the same update, Copilot said it has improved its connections to both American Express and Fidelity which, again, can be a bugbear for some budget tracking apps. In an even more recent update, Copilot added a Mint import option, which other budgeting apps have begun to offer as well. Because the app is relatively new (it launched in early 2020), the company is still catching up to the competition on some table-stakes features. Ugarte told me that his team is almost done building out a detailed cash flow section as well. On its website, Copilot also promises a raft of AI-powered features that build on its current Intelligence platform, the one that powers its smart expense categorization. These include smart financial goals, natural language search, a chat interface, forecasting and benchmarking. That benchmarking, Ugarte tells me, is meant to give people a sense of how theyre doing compared to other Copilot users, on both spending and investment performance. Most of these features should arrive in the new year. Copilot does a couple interesting things for new customers that distinguish it from the competition. Theres a demo mode that feels like a game simulator; no need to add your own accounts. The company is also offering two free months with RIPMINT a more generous introductory offer than most. When it finally does come time to pony up, the $7.92 monthly plan is cheaper than some competing apps, although the $95-a-year-option is in the same ballpark. Pros Slick UI Standalone Mac app Lower monthly price than some competing apps Does a good job visualizing recurring expenses Optional Amazon, Venmo and Zillow integration To review section is handy Cons No web or Android app yet Miscategorized more expenses than our top pick Lots of otherwise common features are still in development Two months free at Copilot Money YNAB Honorable mention YNAB YNAB is, by its own admission, different from anything youve tried before. The app, whose name is short for You Need a Budget, is a so-called zero-based budgeting app, which forces you to assign a purpose for every dollar you earn. It's akin to the envelope budgeting method in that you put each dollar in an envelope and you can always move money from one envelope to another in a pinch. These buckets can include rent and utilities, along with unforeseen expenses like holiday gifts and the inevitable car repair. The idea is that if you budget a certain amount for the unknowns each month, they wont feel like theyre sneaking up on you. Importantly, YNAB is only concerned with the money you have in your accounts now. The app does not ask you to provide your take-home income or set up recurring income payments (although there is a way to do this). The money you will make later in the month through your salaried job is not relevant, because YNAB does not engage in forecasting. The app is harder to learn than any other here, and it requires more ongoing effort from the user. And YNAB knows that. Inside both the mobile and web apps are links to videos and other tutorials. Although I never quite got comfortable with the user interface, I did come to appreciate YNABs insistence on intentionality. Forcing users to draft a new budget each month and to review each transaction is not necessarily a bad thing. As YNAB says on its website, Sure, youve got pie charts showing that you spent an obscene amount of money in restaurants but youve still spent an obscene amount of money in restaurants. I can see this approach being useful for people who dont tend to have a lot of cash in reserve at a given time, or who have spending habits they want to correct (to riff off of YNABs own example, ordering Seamless four times a week). My colleague Valentina Palladino, knowing I was working on this guide, penned a respectful rebuttal, explaining why shes been using YNAB for years. Perhaps, like her, you have major savings goals you want to achieve, whether its paying for a wedding or buying a house. I suggest you give her column a read. For me, though, YNABs approach feels like overkill. Pros Particularly strong emphasis on budgeting Unique zero-dollar approach to financial planning that some people swear by Cons Steep learning curve Harder to use certain features on the mobile app than on the web $99 a year or $14.99 a month at YNAB PocketGuard Honorable mention PocketGuard PocketGuard is one of the only reputable free budget trackers I found in my research. Just know its far more restricted at the free tier than NerdWallet. In my testing, I was prompted to pay after I attempted to link more than two bank accounts. So much for free, unless you keep things simple with one cash account and one credit card. When it comes time to upgrade to PocketGuard Plus, you have three options: pay $7.99 a month, $34.99 a year or $79.99 for a one-time lifetime license. That lifetime option is actually one of the few unique selling points for me: Im sure some people will appreciate paying once and never having to, uh, budget for it again. From the main screen, youll see tabs for accounts, insights, transactions and the Plan, which is where you see recurring payments stacked on top of what looks like a budget. The main overview screen shows you your net worth, total assets and debts; net income and total spending for the month; upcoming bills; a handy reminder of when your next paycheck lands; any debt payoff plan you have; and any goals. Like some other apps, including Quicken Simplifi, PocketGuard promotes an after bills approach, where you enter all of your recurring bills, and then PocketGuard shows you whats left, and thats what youre supposed to be budgeting: your disposable income. Obviously, other apps have a different philosophy: take into account all of your post-tax income and use it to pay the bills, purchase things you want and maybe even save a little. But in PocketGuard, its the in your pocket number thats most prominent. To PocketGuards credit, it does a good job visualizing which bills are upcoming and which ones youve already paid. In early 2024, PocketGuard also publicly committed to adding some popular features. These include rollover budgeting, categorization rules and shared household access. Although PocketGuards UI is easy enough to understand, it lacks polish. The accounts tab is a little busy, and doesnt show totals for categories like cash or investments. Seemingly small details like weirdly phrased or punctuated copy occasionally make the app feel janky. More than once, it prompted me to update the app when no updates were available. The web version, meanwhile, feels like the mobile app blown up to a larger format and doesnt take advantage of the extra screen real estate. Of note, although PocketGuard does work with Plaid, its primary bank-connecting platform is actually Finicity. Setting up my accounts through Finicity was mostly a straightforward process. I did encounter one hiccup: Finicity would not connect to my SoFi account. I was able to do it through Plaid, but PocketGuard doesnt make it easy to access Plaid in the app. The only way, as far as I can tell, is to knowingly search for the name of a bank that isnt available through Finicity, at which point you get the option to try Plaid instead. Like I said: the experience can be janky. Pros One of the only budget trackers with a free plan You can avoid an ongoing subscription fee by opting for a one-time lifetime license Less expensive than most competitors Helpful upcoming bills view in the app Cons The free version is so restricted that the free label feels misleading; the user experience feels less polished than some competing apps The web app doesnt take advantage of the larger screen space on desktop $7.99 a month or $34.99 a year at PocketGuard How we test budgeting apps Before I dove in and started testing out budgeting apps, I had to do some research. To find a list of apps to try out, I consulted trusty ol Google (and even trustier Reddit); read reviews of popular apps on the App Store; and also asked friends and colleagues what budget tracking apps (or other budgeting methods) they might be using for money management. Some of the apps I found were free and these, of course, show loads of ads (excuse me, offers) to stay in business. But most of the available apps require paid subscriptions, with prices typically topping out around $100 a year, or $15 a month. (Spoiler: My top pick is cheaper than that.) All of the services I chose to test needed to do several things: import all of your account data into one place; offer budgeting tools; and track your spending, net worth and credit score. Except where noted, all of these apps are available for iOS, Android and on the web. Once I had my shortlist of six apps, I got to work setting them up. For the sake of thoroughly testing these apps, I made a point of adding every account to every budgeting app, no matter how small or immaterial the balance. What ensued was a veritable Groundhog Day of two-factor authentication. Just hours of entering passwords and one-time passcodes, for the same banks half a dozen times over. Hopefully, you only have to do this once. Budgeting app FAQs What is Plaid and how does it work? Each of the apps I tested uses the same underlying network, called Plaid, to pull in financial data, so its worth explaining what it is and how it works. Plaid was founded as a fintech startup in 2013 and is today the industry standard in connecting banks with third-party apps. Plaid works with over 12,000 financial institutions across the US, Canada and Europe. Additionally, more than 8,000 third-party apps and services rely on Plaid, the company claims. To be clear, you dont need a dedicated Plaid app to use it; the technology is baked into a wide array of apps, including all of the budgeting apps listed in this guide. Once you find the add an account option in whichever one youre using, youll see a menu of commonly used banks. Theres also a search field you can use to look yours up directly. Once you find yours, youll be prompted to enter your login credentials. If you have two-factor authentication set up, youll need to enter a one-time passcode as well. As the middleman, Plaid is a passthrough for information that may include your account balances, transaction history, account type and routing or account number. Plaid uses encryption, and says it has a policy of not selling or renting customer data to other companies. However, I would not be doing my job if I didnt note that in 2022 Plaid was forced to pay $58 million to consumers in a class action suit for collecting more financial data than was needed. As part of the settlement, Plaid was compelled to change some of its business practices. In a statement provided to Engadget, a Plaid spokesperson said the company continues to deny the allegations underpinning the lawsuit and that the crux of the non-financial terms in the settlement are focused on us accelerating workstreams already underway related to giving people more transparency into Plaids role in connecting their accounts, and ensuring that our workstreams around data minimization remain on track. Why did Mint shut down? When parent company Intuit announced in December 2023 that it would shut down Mint, it did not provide a reason why it made the decision to do so. It did say that Mint's millions of users would be funneled over to its other finance app, Credit Karma. "Credit Karma is thrilled to invite all Minters to continue their financial journey on Credit Karma, where they will have access to Credit Karmas suite of features, products, tools and services, including some of Mints most popular features," Mint wrote on its product blog. In our testing, we found that Credit Karma isn't an exact replacement for Mint so if you're still looking for a Mint alternative, you have some decent options. What about Rocket Money? Rocket Money is another free financial app that tracks spending and supports things like balance alerts and account linking. If you pay for the premium tier, the service can also help you cancel unwanted subscriptions. We did not test it for this guide, but we'll consider it in future updates. Nintendo has delayed US Switch 2 pre-orders in response to the new set of tariffs announced by President Donald Trump earlier this week, as first reported by Polygon. Following Nintendo's announcement of the console on Wednesday, pre-orders in the United States were slated to open on April 9. They're now delayed indefinitely. "Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the US will not start April 9, 2025 in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions," the company told Engadget. "Nintendo will update timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025 is unchanged." As mentioned earlier, Nintendo officially announced the Switch 2 on April 2. Hours later, the Trump administration said it would impose a sweeping set of new tariffs targeted against a broad swath of countries, including Japan, China and Vietnam. Products from the latter two countries, where Nintendo manufactures much of its hardware, will be subject to import duties of 54 percent and 46 percent, respectively. In the US, Nintendo said the Switch 2 would cost $450. As Polygon notes, sticker shock was already dominating the conversation around Nintendo's new handheld, with many fans begging the company to "drop the price!" of console during its recent livestreams. It's unclear what could happen following Nintendo's assessment of the situation, but one possibility is that the company could allocate less stock for the US market. Nintendos new console has finally been revealed in full, with magnetically attaching Joy-Cons, a new chat function and a bigger higher-res 7.9-inch screen that supports 120Hz and HDR. Then there are the new Joy-Cons. Alongside larger SL and SR buttons made of metal, the controllers can be disconnected by pressing a more pronounced release button on the back. The big upgrade, though, is using either Joy-Con like a mouse. (And even use them on your pants, if you want to.) The Switch 2 also uses DLSS, so its easier for developers to port games across to the hybrid console. In a very Nintendo way, it didnt actually talk up the hardware specifics, so NVIDIA had to fill in the gaps. Engadget According to NVIDIA, responsible for the chip inside, the Switch 2 has ten times the graphical performance of the original. DLSS tech means games can be rendered at a lower resolution, and trained AI models and dedicated Tensor Cores can be used to fill in extra details. With that extra power, the Switch 2 supports up to 60 fps at 4K resolution and 120 fps at 1440p or 1080p resolutions, docked. The 1080p screen can handle variable refresh rates up to 120Hz in handheld mode, too. Yes, catching up with the last two decades, the Switch 2 can also do video chat (and voice chat, but yawn). However, it demands a sold-separately camera, costing $50. Boo. I think that strikes at the issue of price. The original Switch was $300 at launch, the PS5 starts at $399 now. The Switch 2 is $450. Sure, that includes the screen and (technically) two controllers, but its a bit of a jump. Is Nintendo factoring in tariffs? Possibly. While some of us think $450 is an appropriate price for the console itself, the costs are creeping up in every direction. Want the new must-have Mario Kart World? Thats $80 now. Meanwhile, older games re-released on the Switch 2 also won't be cheap. Cyberpunk 2077 rings in at $70. Oof. If you want to expand storage, well, youd need a microSD express card, the faster, pricier version of the tiny storage card. Need another pair of Joy-Cons? That will be $90, please. Want to pre-order a Switch 2 ahead of the June 5 launch? Weve got all the details, but its worth noting Nintendo is trying to get ahead of scalpers by offering a dedicated pre-order system for existing heavy Switch users with a Switch Online subscription. In Nintendos words: Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025. Read on for our hands-on impressions of the Switch 2. Mat Smith Get Engadget's newsletter delivered direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here! Even more Switch 2 stuff GameChat will be free until March 31, 2026. Nintendo While we didnt get to try it at the early hands-on event, voice chat is an integral part of the new Nintendo console. By pressing the new C button on the right Joy-Con, players can jump into a GameChat with friends and family. Nintendo demoed the feature during its recent Switch 2 Direct, alongside a new Switch 2 Camera, enabling video chat too, with a cut-out profile. It looks a lot like a stream on Discord, with windows along the bottom of the screen for every chat participant. Up to four friends can share their screen and join with video chat if they own the Switch 2 Camera. Continue reading. Signalgate was just the start. Its not long since that Signal messaging app disaster, but US politicians continue showing off their minimal national security expertise. The Washington Post reports that members of the White Houses National Security Council have used personal Gmail accounts for official government business. National security advisor Michael Waltz and a senior aide of his both used their own accounts to discuss sensitive information with colleagues. Government departments typically use business-grade email services, while the federal government also has its own internal communications systems with additional layers of security. Continue reading. You can pick up a pair for $179. Googles latest wireless earbuds are on sale via Amazon for just $179. This is a record-low price, down from $229. As per our review, they sound great. They provide a good low end, which is tough to do with earbuds, and crunchy highs. Google says it redesigned the entire audio system, and it shows. We called out the noticeable improvement over the original Pixel Buds Pro earbuds. Continue reading. This will be Wynn-Williams first remarks since Meta took legal action against her. Sarah Wynn-Williams, the former Facebook policy director who wrote a best-selling memoir about her time at the company, will testify at a Senate Judiciary subcommittee hearing next week. In her book, Careless People, Wynn-Williams recounts Meta executives interactions with world leaders and government officials as Facebooks influence expanded globally in the early 2010s. Her account has resurfaced information about Facebooks attempts to operate in China and revealed new details about its overtures to Chinese government officials. Prior to her books publication, Wynn-Williams also filed whistleblower complaints about alleged misconduct at the company. Metas attempts to curtail sales of the memoir spectacularly backfired, with the book seeing explosive sales after reports suggested Meta took legal action against the author. Now theres a senate hearing too. Continue reading. And it dissolves when no longer needed. Northwestern University Engineers at Northwestern University have developed the worlds smallest pacemaker. Its so small that it fits in the tip of a syringe. It safely dissolves into the bloodstream after a time, so its a temporary solution. Its designed for folks who need heart help short-term, like newborn babies with congenital defects. The pacemaker pairs with a wireless device mounted to a patients chest. When it detects an irregular heartbeat, it shines a light that activates the pacemaker. Continue reading. If you buy something through a link in this article, we may earn commission. A small donut shop in Wilton, Connecticut, is under investigation after actress Blake Lively was seen serving customers with her hair loose. The incident occurred during her recent visit to Rise Doughnuts, where she helped out a friend who owns the establishment. The actress posted photos and videos of herself working a kitchen mixer on her Instagram Stories. "Baking with genius food friends and their kitchen mixer the size of a car. This is what my happy place looks like," she wrote in the caption. In other posts, Lively was seen serving food to customers with her hair dangling all over. She did not tie her hair back or wear a hairnet. Linda! Blake Lively surpreendeu alguns fas ao trabalhar atras do balcao da loja de donuts Rise Doughnuts, em Connecticut, no domingo, 30 de marco. "Assando com amigos geniais da cozinha e sua batedeira do tamanho de um carro. E assim que meu lugar feliz se parece." pic.twitter.com/s16LIXFhsw Blake Lively Brasil (@BlakeLivelyBR) April 1, 2025 Many social media users hopped on Yelp to leave one-star reviews expressing concerns about the hygiene at the shop. This led Yelp to temporarily disable posting on the shop's page while they investigate whether the recent comments reflected genuine customer experiences. Other users hopped on online platforms to complain about the potential health code violation posed by the actress's hair. Some also reached out to the Wilton Health Department, prompting the agency to launch an investigation into the donut shop, as first reported by TMZ. According to Connecticut's adoption of the FDA Food Code, food handlers are required to wear hair restraints, such as hairnets or hats, to prevent contamination of food. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in health code violations, fines, or even suspension of the establishment's operating license. Under Connecticut's Public Health Code, establishments failing an inspection due to unsanitary conditions may be subject to immediate corrective actions or face license suspension if issues are not resolved within the specified time frame. Fines for violations can range from $50 per infraction for minor repeat offenses to $100 for re-inspection fees. As of Thursday, it is unclear whether Rise Doughnuts will face fines or violations. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. The head of the nation's leading organization fighting antisemitism questioned the Trump administration's aggressive effort to find and deport foreign students who have protested on behalf of Palestinians, suggesting that the administration is betraying American values, denying due process and punishing people for their views rather than their actions. In pulling student visas and seeking to deport protesters who hold green cards, the administration has failed to ensure due process that is central to America's justice system, wrote Jonathan Greenblatt, chief executive and national director of the Anti-Defamation League. "If we sacrifice our constitutional freedoms in the pursuit of security, we undermine the very foundation of the diverse, pluralistic society we seek to defend," Greenblatt wrote in an essay published on the website eJewishPhilanthropy on Thursday. He wrote that there was a "substantial difference" between merely expressing controversial views and depriving others of civil rights, and he said ADL has a long history of supporting free speech. "We should be holding people accountable for actual crimes, not Orwellian thoughtcrimes," he said, adding that it's not possible to know whether the immigration enforcement was targeting "constitutionally-protected speech" or "genuine violations of law" because the administration has not explained the charges. Administration officials have defended their approach. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week that "no one has the right to a visa. "If you are in this country on a student visa and are a participant in those movements, we have a right to deny your visa," he told reporters. Taylor Rogers, a spokesperson for the White House, added on Thursday that Donald Trump has "done more to fight anti-Semitism and preserve free speech than any other president in American history. The Trump administration will continue fighting to preserve free speech for American citizens and push back against the anti-Semitic violence that plagued our college campuses on Joe Biden's watch." The ADL has been a leading voice in condemning antisemitism on college campuses, most recently in the wake of some of the intense pro-Palestinian protests following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel and the war in Gaza that followed. University leaders often struggled to balance competing rights - protesters' rights to free speech and assembly, and students' rights to feel safe on campus without discrimination or harassment. The ADL consistently encouraged schools to do more to combat anti-Jewish and anti-Israel sentiments, a mantle that the Trump administration has seized with vigor. Within days of his inauguration, Trump issued an executive order calling on federal agencies to familiarize colleges with the grounds for revocation of visas, so that schools can report international students and faculty for investigation or deportation. Last month, immigration officers seized a graduate student who had been involved in pro-Palestinian protests and negotiations at Columbia University, even though he has a green card. Officers also sought another Columbia student, a native of South Korea who also was a lawful permanent resident, who had joined a pro-Palestinian protest. Both have challenged the government's actions in court. Several international students at Columbia - the center of protests last spring - have been sought or detained by immigration officers and threatened with deportation. And at other schools across the country, several students on visas have been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. The administration has also threatened to pull federal funding from dozens of schools if they do not take action to combat antisemitism, and it canceled $400 million in contracts and grants to Columbia, arguing that the school had failed to address threats to Jewish students and faculty. Princeton University announced that several dozen federal grants had been suspended this week. Trump and his aides have cast their actions as defending Jewish students and taking antisemitism seriously, something they say the Biden administration failed to do. Now the country's leading group fighting antisemitism pushed back. Greenblatt welcomed some of what the Trump administration has done to combat antisemitism, saying it had taken a number of "bold and important steps" in recent weeks. "This new posture has led to demonstrable and dramatic improvements in policy and in practice on many college campuses," he wrote. But the thrust of his essay suggested the administration had gone too far. The headline was, "We must fight for Jewish students - and our values." Discerning the line between peaceful protest and antisemitism has been challenging for universities, with some academics calling chants, posters and symbols such as "globalize the intifada" expressions of Palestinian rights, and others saying they are hostile messages that frighten Jewish people who support Israel's right to exist. Last spring, after police cleared a demonstration at Columbia, similar tent encampments popped up at colleges across the country and, at many schools, police crackdowns followed. This academic year has been much calmer, in part because of clearer and stricter rules regarding demonstrations at many campuses. (COMMENT, BELOW) Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed the historic paid parental leave bill into law, helping families spend more time together without worrying about work. Gov. Ivey signed the bill into law while being surrounded by working parents, teachers, and public servants from across the state. SB199, known as the Alabama Public Employee Paid Parental Leave Act of 2025, delivers on a key promise that the lawmaker made in her State of the State address. Alabama Passes Paid Parental Leave Bill Into Law During the signing of the bill, the governor said that they are committed to "strengthening families and supporting those who serve our state." She added that the new law reflects her and her colleagues' values. Ivey said that no parent should have to be forced to choose between their paycheck and spending time with a new member of their family. The official said that the new law sends a clear message, which is that they value families and the state's workforce, according to the Office of Alabama Governor. The bill was originally sponsored by state Sen. Vivian Figures and Rep. Ginny Shaver and would provide paid parental leave for eligible public employees. These would include teachers and state workers. Under the new law, female employees are given eight weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, stillbirth, or miscarriage of their child. Additionally, male employees get two weeks of paid parental leave under those same circumstances. Furthermore, adoptive parents are also eligible to get paid parental leave if they adopt a child who is younger than three years. Either parent will receive eight weeks of paid parental leave, and the other will have two weeks of paid parental leave if both are eligible employees, the Alabama Reflector reported. Helping Families Spend Time Together On Mar. 20, 2025, the legislation passed unanimously 94-2, where the two oppositions were male representatives. They claimed that parents could take advantage of their accrued sick leave or "catastrophic" sick leave for parental leave. However, Shaver, who is a longtime supporter of paid parental leave, argued against the two opposition lawmakers' claims. She noted that while teachers can earn one sick day per month for 10 months, it takes more than 10 days to recover from having a baby. Supporters believe that the new law will positively impact the lives of roughly 29,000 state employees, approximately 57,000 public school staff, and more than 50,000 public university employees. Under the new law, individuals will become eligible for paid parental leave starting on July 1, 2025, as per A Better Balance. Comedian and actor Russell Brand must return to the United Kingdom in just four weeks to appear before a court to face new rape charges. On April 4, Brand was charged with one count of rape, one count of oral rape, one count of indecent assault and two counts of sexual assault by Metropolitan Police, according to Deadline. The allegations against Brand stem from alleged incidents between the years 1999 and 2005. Brand is accused of raping a woman in the Bournemouth area in 1999. He is also accused of allegedly orally raping a woman and sexually assaulting her in Westminster in 2004. A separate woman accused Brand of allegedly sexually assaulting in the same area between 2004 and 2005. Brand is also facing allegations of indecently assaulting a woman in Westminster in 2001. Police issued a lengthy statement about the investigation, revealing that their criminal probe into Brand came after allegations made in a Channel 4 documentary that aired in 2023. "We have concluded that Russell Brand should be charged with offenses including rape, sexual assault and indecent assault," the police shared in a statement, according to Yahoo. According to the Daily Mail, Brand lives in Santa Rosa Beach in Florida. Because of this, he is now due back in Westminster Magistrates' Court for a hearing in England in 4 weeks on May 2, 2025. "The Crown Prosecution Service reminds everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings," the police added in their statement. Police have also asked anyone with any information in the cases to reach out to law enforcement. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with the interim leader of neighbouring Bangladesh on Friday, the first such meeting since a revolution in Dhaka ousted New Delhi's long-term ally and soured relations. Nobel Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, 84, took charge of Bangladesh in August 2024 after India's old ally Sheikh Hasina was toppled as prime minister by a student-led uprising and fled to India by helicopter. India was the biggest benefactor of Hasina's government and her overthrow sent cross-border relations into a tailspin, culminating in Yunus choosing to make his first state visit last month to China -- India's biggest rival. Bangladesh has also moved closer to India's arch-enemy Pakistan during the festering diplomatic dispute. Tensions between India and Bangladesh have prompted a number of tit-for-tat barbs between senior figures from both governments. New Delhi has repeatedly accused Muslim-majority Bangladesh of failing to adequately protect its minority Hindu citizens -- charges denied by the caretaker administration of Yunus. Yunus posted a picture on social media on Friday showing him shaking hands with Modi. His press secretary Shafiqul Alam said later the "meeting was constructive, productive, and fruitful". Their meeting took place on the sidelines of a regional summit in Thailand. Yunus also shared a photograph of the two men smiling as he handed Modi a framed picture of themselves a decade ago, when the Indian leader honoured the micro-finance pioneer in 2015 with a gold medal for his work supporting society's poorest. - 'Spirit of pragmatism' - Vikram Misri, the secretary of India's foreign ministry, told reporters that Modi "reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh". Modi said he wanted a "positive and constructive relation with Bangladesh based on a spirit of pragmatism", Misri added, repeating New Delhi's concerns about alleged "atrocities" against minorities in Bangladesh. Yunus, according to Alam, also raised with Modi Dhaka's long-running complaint about what it says are Hasina's incendiary remarks from exile. Hasina, who remains in India, has defied extradition requests from Bangladesh to face charges including mass murder. Dhaka has requested that India allow Hasina's extradition to face charges of crimes against humanity for the killing of hundreds of protesters during the unrest that toppled her government. Misri said Modi and Yunus had discussed the extradition order but there was "nothing more to add" at present. Yunus also raised concerns about border violence along the porous frontier with India, as well as issues of the shared river waters that flow from India as the Ganges and the Brahmaputra wind towards the sea. Misri said that the "prevention of illegal border crossing" was necessary. Yunus's caretaker government is tasked with implementing democratic reforms ahead of fresh elections slated to take place by June 2026. Modi and Yunus had dinner on Thursday night, sitting next to each other alongside other leaders from the BIMSTEC regional bloc in Bangkok, but the bilateral meeting on Friday was the first since relations frayed between the neighbouring nations. burs-pjm/pbt Fairfield, MT (59436) Today Showers early, then partly cloudy overnight. Low 49F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.. Tonight Showers early, then partly cloudy overnight. Low 49F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Two million dollars in funding for 20 family planning clinics across Montana, including Bozeman-based Bridgercare, was frozen after the Trump administrations decision to halt Title X funding, leaving clinics scrambling to ensure patients continue to receive care. In a press release Wednesday, the reproductive health care clinic announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) informed them that their April 1 funding was being temporarily withheld. The funding freeze comes as HHS evaluates potential violations of grant terms, including concerns related to federal civil rights laws and President Trumps executive orders, which address issues such as the promotion of diversity, equity and inclusion and taxpayer subsidization of open borders, according to TIME. Some Title X grantees received notification that their grants were paused pending a compliance review. Each of the organizations with grants on hold received a detailed letter explaining the reason for the pause in funding and requesting documentation within 10 days to assess compliance with grant terms and conditions, an HHS spokesperson said in a statement to the Chronicle. Bridgercare was one of 16 grantees out of the 55-year-old Title X family planning program across the U.S. affected by this freeze. We want our patients to know that we are still providing care, and they are our priority, said Stephanie McDowell, executive director at Bridgercare and board member for the national family planning and reproductive health association. The Title X family planning program, enacted in 1970, has provided preventive health care to millions, funding a nationwide network of health centers that offer reproductive and sexual health care to everyone. Through this grant, clinics like Bridgercare can provide services such as contraception, cancer screenings and STI testing and treatment through a sliding-scale fee based on income. Without the $2 million in Title X funding, Bridgercare warns that patients across the state could lose access to crucial preventative services, including birth control. Bridgercare and our network of 20 family planning clinics across Montana provide contraception and other sexual and reproductive health services to people who want it but cant afford it. This is critical, life-changing care that has a profound impact on our patients, McDowell said. The 20 clinics, which include four Planned Parenthood locations and smaller clinics serving rural areas, are part of Montanas Title X network. Together, they provide safety-net care to an estimated 15,000 Montanans each year, with the majority being low-income women between 18 and 45, according to the release. "Their (the 20 clinics) ability to continue to do will be contingent on how long they can financially sustain services without funding. It costs approximately $200,000 a month to fund the 20 clinics across this Title X network. Currently, we are all being asked to continue providing safety net healthcare services with ZERO funding for the foreseeable future," McDowell said. Additionally, Bridgercare estimates that 60% of women who received contraceptive services through their network had no other contact with the health care system that year. At Bridgercare alone, the nonprofit serves more than 5,500 patients annually, with 55% receiving services on a sliding-fee scale. "Right now, our primary concern is ensuring that access to critical health care remains uninterrupted," McDowell said. "We will fully cooperate with HHS to provide the requested information and work to ensure healthcare services remain available for vulnerable Montanans. In the meantime, we have been instructed to continue providing care under the terms of the grant, despite this suspension of funding." Bridgercare has been a sub-recipient of Title X funding since 1972 and assumed management of Montanas Title X program in 2022. By doing so, it helped secure funding for the 20 clinics in the network, including the $2 million it receives from the federal government to support preventative care across these clinics. Abortion care is not a service funded by Title X, according to HHS. In the face of ongoing uncertainty, McDowell said community support remains vital. She encouraged patients with healthcare coverage to continue seeking care at the clinic, which helps offset the cost of providing services to those who cant afford them during the freeze. Donations, she added, are also always welcome. Bridgercare has always been resilient thanks to the incredible support of our community and the patients we serve," she said. "During times of uncertainty, the most helpful thing we can all do is stay informed and continue to prioritize access to affordable healthcare. Bridgercare remains committed to our mission of providing high-quality, affordable reproductive healthcare to all who need it." The government is extending mandatory housing measures in northern England to help prevent further outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza. Effective from Monday 7 April, farmers and keepers in Cumbria, County Durham, Northumberland, and Tyneside will be legally required to house their birds. It comes amid a rising number of cases of avian influenza in wild birds, as well as new infections in commercial poultry and captive birds. The extension is in addition to housing measures already in place in East Yorkshire, Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Shropshire, York, North Yorkshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire. The whole of Northern Ireland is also under a mandatory housing order due to an increase in outbreaks. Farmers and keepers must also adhere to the strict biosecurity protocols set out under the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), Defra said today (4 April). UK deputy chief veterinary officer, Ele Brown said: Due to the increasing number of bird flu cases in the north of England, particularly in regions with high-density poultry farming, we are extending housing measures. Keepers are urged to stay alert for any signs of disease, maintain strict biosecurity practices, and report any suspected cases of disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency. AIPZs mandating enhanced biosecurity are in place across all of the UK, applying to all keepers whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few in a backyard flock. Defra said the AIPZ would be in place until further notice and will be kept under regular review as part of the governments work to monitor the risks of avian influenza. In a world first, the disease was recently confirmed in a sheep in Yorkshire following routine surveillance of livestock on a farm where avian influenza had previously been confirmed in captive birds. Plans to extend the ban on burning heather on deep peat have been called "deeply concerning" for upland farmers, particularly those managing moorland areas. The NFU said the government's proposals, which have been sent out for consultation, came at a time when farmers already faced "huge challenges". The government said the move would mean an extra 146,000 hectares would be covered by regulations banning heather burning. The area falling within the regulations would involve changes to Less Favoured Areas, replacing the existing focus on Sites of Special Scientific Interest that are also Special Areas of Conservation and/or Special Protection Areas. The definition of deep peat would also be revised, so that it is counted as anything over 30cms rather than 40cms, bringing more areas within the regulations. Any prescribed burning would need to be done under a strict licence, which the government said would be issued where there is a clear need, citing reducing wildfire risk as an example. The licensing system would require applicants to successfully explain why alternative methods have not, or would not, work. Applicants would also have to show how they intend to move the land away from the need to burn in future in order to receive a licence. Its also been proposed that one or more people carrying out a burn under the regulations must have completed a mandatory training course. Responding to the news, NFU deputy president David Exwood said it would be "deeply concerning" for the upland farming sector. He said they already faced "huge challenges" with the recent closure of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme, reductions in direct payments and changes to inheritance tax from April 2026. Changing peatland management practices could threaten the viability of livestock farming in these unique landscapes," Mr Exwood added. We will also continue to engage with Defra to ensure it understands the importance of upland farming systems, for food production and also for the vital peatland restoration work farmers are already doing. Nature Minister Mary Creagh said: "Our peatlands are this countrys Amazon Rainforest home to our most precious wildlife, storing carbon and reducing flooding risk. "The UK has 13% of the worlds blanket bog. A rare global habitat, it is a precious part of our heritage, and that is why were announcing a consultation on these measures to ensure deep peat is better protected." The online consultation will be open for eight weeks, closing for responses on 25 May. Texas officials charged a 17-year-old suspect with murder for the fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old during a track meet. Authorities from the Frisco Police Department said in a news release that the suspect, identified as Karmelo Anthony, was arrested and held without bond. Several reports identified the teenager who died as Austin Metcalf, and a social media post claimed that there was already a sigil planned in his honor. Texas Teen Charged With Murder Police officials responded to David Kuykendall Stadium after receiving reports of a fight that broke out between two students at around 10:00 a.m. When they arrived, they found the 16-year-old suffering from stab wounds. He was quickly taken to a hospital but was later pronounced dead. Law enforcement authorities revealed that an investigation into the case is currently active and ongoing to look into other details of the crime. Officials are encouraging anyone who has information about the fatal stabbing to come forward and assist with the case, according to CBS Austin. A spokesperson for police officials said that Anthony was initially being held at the city jail but was to be transferred to Collin County jail at a later date. They added that they had no information regarding whether or not the suspect had an attorney yet. Authorities tried to find contact information for family members to speak on Anthony's behalf but their efforts were not immediately successful. In a statement, the Frisco Independent School District said the stabbing occurred during a meet where student athletes from eight of the district's 12 schools competed against each other. Fatal Stabbing During a Track Meet The victim was identified to be an 11th grader at Memorial High School as revealed by an email the principal of the school sent to parents on Wednesday. Officials did not immediately release details about what led to the fatal stabbing of the 16-year-old, the Associated Press reported. The Frisco Police Department also noted that it was working with Frisco ISD and will provide any needed support during this "incredibly difficult time." The department said that it grieves with all the people affected by the horrific incident and extends its deepest condolences to the family of the victim. On the other hand, Frisco ISD called the case an "unprecedented situation," adding that it shared the same grief of affected individuals. It was revealed that Memorial High School will acknowledge Metcalf's death during school on Thursday and provide support throughout the day, as per ABC News. Ministers from the UK and Scottish governments have officially opened a multi-million-pound facility aimed at enhancing innovation and sustainability in the dairy industry. The new site will serve as a hub for collaboration among researchers and farmers, tackling challenges and seizing opportunities to boost productivity in British dairy. Led by Scotlands Rural College (SRUC), the project received 4m each from the UK and Scottish governments, along with 738,000 from South of Scotland Enterprise. Located on SRUCs Barony campus, the Dairy Nexus is strategically positioned to foster innovation in the key dairy regions of Dumfries and Galloway and Cumbria. The facility is expected to house around 60 staff, including 15 new positions. Tom Arthur, Minister for Employment and Investment, and Kirsty McNeill, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Scotland, unveiled a plaque and toured the site. They were shown the Milk Technology Unit, which is used for dairy product development testing, with both ministers sampling local products. They also met Hilda, an IVF calf born in Scotland which recently gained global attention as the face of the Cool Cows research project. Speaking after the visit, Mr Arthur said the site had an aim to drive innovations which reduce carbon emissions while making the dairy sector more productive. He said: The Dairy Nexus will boost the value of the south of Scotlands thriving dairy sector, which supports more than 1,300 producers and nearly 1,000 farms." Russel Griggs, chair of South of Scotland Enterprise, said that Dairy Nexus would be an "asset for one of the most significant industries for Dumfries and Galloway". It will drive innovation to allow the dairy sector to decarbonise, as well as accelerate its productivity, enhance animal welfare and develop new products from dairy resources. Dairy Nexus also aims to bring further investment and jobs to the area, contributing to SOSEs target of turning the South of Scotland into the rural economic powerhouse we know it can be. ICE cotton futures crashed on Thursday due to uncertainty surrounding US cotton exports. The natural fibre experienced its worst single-day meltdown in the past two years. The reciprocal tariff announced by US President Donald Trump may trigger retaliatory tariffs from other countries, potentially impacting US exports. Yesterday, the ICE cotton May 2025 contract settled at 64.80 cents per pound (0.453 kg), down 3.00 cents. The contract plummeted by 4.4 per cent, reaching its lowest level since March 7. The July contract also ended at 65.71 cents, with a loss of 300 points. The December 2025 contract settled at 67.55 cents, down 284 points. Other contracts settled with losses ranging between 90 and 283 points. The total volume traded was 97,184 contractsthe 16th highest ever recorded on ICE. The previous day's cleared volume stood at 74,969 contracts. Cotton futures have surpassed 90,000 contracts in a day 32 times historically; eight of those have occurred in 2025, indicating active trading this year. ICE-certified deliverable cotton stocks as of April 2 remained unchanged at 14,488 bales. ICE cotton futures saw their sharpest single day fall in two years, driven by uncertainty around US cotton exports following a new US tariff policy. President Trump's 10 per cent base tariff sparked fears of global retaliation, leading to widespread selloffs. May 2025 cotton dropped 4.4 per cent, with high trading volume reflecting market panic. The sharp decline was triggered by a new US tariff policy, which created panic across global financial markets. On April 2, President Trump signed an executive order imposing a 10 per cent minimum base tariff on all trading partners. The order also enables higher tariffs on selected countries, intensifying trade uncertainty. This led to a widespread sell-off, not just in cotton but also in stocks and grains. Analysts expect certain countries to respond, which could influence future cotton demand. However, the USDA export sales report for the week ending March 27 showed net sales of 129,100 balesup 53 per cent from the previous week but down 26 per cent from the four-week average. Export sales to China dropped by 21,300 tons, while bookings for the next marketing year rose by 40,000 bales. Currently, ICE cotton for May 2025 is trading at 63.72 cents per pound (down 1.08 cents), cash cotton at 62.22 cents (down 3.33 cents), the July 2025 contract at 65.01 cents (down 0.70 cents), the October 2025 contract at 67.52 cents (down 0.09 cents), the December 2025 contract at 67.18 cents (down 0.37 cents), and the March 2026 contract at 68.35 cents per pound (down 0.39 cents). A few contracts remained at the level of the last close, with no trading noted today. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL) Overview On April 2, 2025, the United States announced the implementation of comprehensive reciprocal tariffs targeting multiple nations, which include all the top apparel exporting nations to the US, except for Mexico. The reciprocal tariffs announced by the US administration may mark a major shift in $61 billion of apparel sourcing from Asia. With steep hikes in effective tariffsup to 77 per cent for ChinaAsia's dominance may wane, benefiting low-tariff regions like Mexico, South America, and parts of the Middle East. India stands to gain with relatively lower tariffs and ongoing trade talks. In 2024, US imported apparel valued at $83.7 billion, with the top seventeen trading partners contributing approximately 89.80 per cent of this total. Around $61 billion of apparel was supplied to the US by Asian countries last year. The revised tariff structure, which will take effect on April 5 (and April 9 for more than 10 per cent reciprocal tariffs), 2025, introduces substantial adjustments, predominantly impacting key suppliers from Asia. These measures are expected to have far-reaching effects on sourcing strategies, the restructuring of supply chains, and the dynamics of global trade. Source: TexPro Regional Analysis Asia Asian nations have been imposed with the steepest tariffs under the newly announced US trade policy. China, the United States leading apparel trade partner with a substantial market share of 21.98 per cent in 2024, has been hit with one of the highest tariff rates of 54.00 per cent (10% in February, followed by additional 10% in March, and 34% in April). This 54.00 per cent reciprocal tariff is in addition to the existing rate or approximately 23 per cent in December 2024. Other prominent apparel manufacturing countries in Asia have also been significantly affected, including Cambodia (64.00% - effective tariff rate including existing plus reciprocal tariff), Vietnam (64.00%), Sri Lanka (57.00%), Bangladesh (53.00%), Indonesia (47.00%), Pakistan (44.00%), and India (40.00%). In 2024, China remained the leading apparel exporter to the United States, with a trade value of $18.39 billion. However, a declining trend in its growth rate has been observed over the past five years, indicating the ongoing impact of trade war between the two nations. In recent years, the United States has actively sought to reduce its reliance on Chinese merchandise. This intent is underscored by the imposition of high tariff rates on China by the Trump administration. Prior to the newly announced tariffs this year, the average effective tariff rate on apparel imports from China was approximately 23.00 per cent. The revised tariff rates represent a substantial increase of 170.00 per cent, raising the effective rate to 77.00 per cent. Considering these recent developments, it is likely that Chinas substantial market share in US apparel trade will see a declining trend in the coming years. Other key trade partners, such as Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, have exhibited minimal to no growth in their apparel exports to the United States in recent years, leading to stable and stagnant trade flows. The newly implemented tariffs represent significant increases, with Vietnam (255.56% change), Bangladesh (231.25% change), and Indonesia (213.33% change) experiencing substantial adjustments. While these tariff changes are expected to have a moderate impact on these countries, they are unlikely to significantly influence the growth rate of apparel exports to the United States. Given that the trade values from these nations are comparatively lower than those from China, these countries must re-evaluate and adapt their strategies to navigate the evolving trade landscape and establish themselves as competitive alternatives to the Chinese market. Among the newly imposed high tariffs, India and Pakistan face the lowest (inclusive of both existing tax and reciprocal tariff) rates in the Asian region at 40.00 per cent and 44.00 per cent, respectively. Of these two neighbouring countries, India holds a more favourable position, with nearly double the value of apparel exports to the United States compared to Pakistan, as well as the lowest tariff rate among Asian nations. The ongoing trade agreement negotiations between India and the United States further underscore Indias advantageous standing. With a total trade value of approximately $5 billion, India ranks as the United States fourth-largest apparel trade partner and has achieved a modest yet steady growth rate of 3.00 per cent over the past five years. As of December 2024, the trade-weighted average effective tariff rate on US apparel imports from India was lower by approximately 6 per cent, 4 per cent, 2 per cent, and 1 per cent compared to those from China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Cambodia respectively. However, following the implementation of the new tariff structure on April 9, 2025, the differential in favour of India is projected to widen significantlyIndias tariff rate will be lower by 37 per cent relative to China, 24 per cent to Vietnam, 13 per cent to Bangladesh, and 24 per cent to Cambodia. This positions India in a position to potentially capture a larger market share from countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and even China, which will be now subject to significantly higher tariffs. Cambodia, which recorded one of the highest growth rates in apparel exports to the United States at 7.26 per cent over the past five years, is expected to experience a slowdown under the newly implemented tariff regime. The latest total tariff of 64.00 per centrepresenting a considerable 326.67 per cent increasepositions Cambodia as one of the most adversely affected trade partners. This development is likely to lead to a decline in the current growth rate, potentially resulting in stagnation compared to the previously observed upward trend. South America The average effective tariff rate for leading South American countries under the latest tariff structure stands at 10.60 per cent, which is substantially lower than the average rate of 52.88 per cent applied to top Asian trade partners. This competitive tariff rate may create opportunities for South American countries to expand their market share in United States apparel trade, potentially drawing business away from Asian counterparts. Mexico holds a significant advantage with zero tariffs on apparel exports to the United States under the USMCA agreement. Although its apparel export growth has been on a declining trajectory in recent years, the latest tariff changes could prove favourable for Mexico. With higher tariff rates imposed on key Asian trade partners, Mexico is well-positioned to capitalise on its nearshore proximity and zero-tariff benefit, thereby establishing itself as an appealing alternative in the United States market. Countries such as Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and El Salvador collectively accounted for about 9.00 per cent of the United States total apparel market share in 2024. While their tariff rates have risen significantlyfrom 5.00 per cent to 15.00 per cent, marking a increase of 200.00 per cent for Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador and from 5.00 per cent to 23.00 per cent, marking a steep rise of 360.00 per cent for Nicaragua these revised rates remain lower than those imposed on Asian countries, potentially offering a competitive edge. Furthermore, the benefit of nearshore proximity is expected to result in shorter lead times compared to Asian markets, enhancing the attractiveness of these countries. Middle East Jordan, Egypt, and Turkiye are key apparel trade partners of the United States from the Middle East, with export values ranging between $1 billion and $2 billion and steady growth rates of 1.19 per cent, 4.08 per cent, and 7.72 per cent, respectively. The revised tariff rates for these countries have seen significant increases: Jordans rate has risen to 20.00 per cent from 0.00 per cent, Egypts rate has increased to 15.00 per cent from 5.00 per cent, and Turkiye faces a high tariff of 25.00 per cent, up from the previous rate of 15.00 per cent. Despite these substantial tariff increases, these Middle Eastern countries could benefit from the overall tariff adjustments, as their rates remain comparatively lower than those imposed on key Asian markets. Additionally, their geographical proximity to the United States vis-a-vis South and Southeast Asian countries offers a strategic advantage by enabling shorter lead times in supply chain operations, further bolstering their competitiveness against Asian markets. Europe Italy remains the United States sole key apparel trade partner from Europe. It was ranked as the 10th largest apparel exporter to the US in 2024, with a trade value of $2.19 billion. Over the past five years, Italy has demonstrated an impressive growth rate of 6.50 per cent, reflecting a growing demand in the United States for luxury and high-end apparela market segment for which Italy is renowned. Despite the recent tariff increase from 15.00 per cent to 35.00 per centa substantial rise of 133.33 per centItalys apparel exports to the United States are unlikely to be significantly affected. Given the premium price point of luxury and high-end apparel, consumer demand for these products is expected to remain resilient despite the higher tariffs. Summary The forthcoming tariff regime marks a pivotal moment for global apparel trade. While China and its Asian counterparts continue to dominate United States import market share, the significant tariff increases are expected to drive a shift in sourcing strategies, moving away from traditional hubs towards tariff-friendly and geographically proximate regions. For apparel brands and retailers, these developments necessitate a proactive revaluation of their sourcing models. Source: TexPro Fibre2Fashion News Desk (WE - MJ) After Manoj Kumar's demise, several prominent figures from the Indian film industry paid a tribute to him and remembered his contribution to Hindi cinema. Actor Salman Khan took to social media to offer his condolences as well. He took to Twitter to pen a post that read, "Manoj Kumar Ji a true legend. Thank you for the unforgettable films and memories." Check it out here: Manoj Kumar Ji a true legend. Thank you for the unforgettable films and memories Salman Khan (@BeingSalmanKhan) April 4, 2025 Manoj Kumar worked with Salman's father, Salim Kha,n on the film Kranti, which went on to become a huge hit.The cult classic was produced, edited and directed by Kumar, who also wrote the dialogues. Salim-Javed wrote the story and screenplay. Not just Kranti but Kumar's filmography boasted several nationalistic films such as Upkar, Purab Aur Pachhim, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan and Shaheed. His role as Bharat in Upkar was loved so much by the audiences that he became known by that name. In a lot of his patriotic and nationalist films, he named his character Bharat to live up to the image. Earlier in the day, Aamir Khan also paid a heartfelt tribute to Kumar. Calling the late actor an institution, Khan said, "Manoj Kumar was not just an actor, and filmmaker, he was an institution. I have learnt so much watching his films. His films were often based on important social themes which brought him really close to the common man. My heartfelt condolences to his family." Manoj Kumar passed away at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital after suffering a cardiogenic shock following an acute myocardial infarction. He was already struggling with decompensated liver cirrhosis. His cremation will take place tomorrow. Earlier in the day, Aamir Khan also paid a heartfelt tribute to Kumar. Calling the late actor an institution, Khan said, "Manoj Kumar was not just an actor, and filmmaker, he was an institution. I have learnt so much watching his films. His films were often based on important social themes which brought him really close to the common man. My heartfelt condolences to his family." Talking of Salman Khan, the actor recently released his film Sikandar in the theatres, however, it did not match up to the expectation of the audience. In a market with a rising number of new loans funded, Liberty has flexible home loan solutions to help customers who may not meet traditional lending requirements. According to the latest Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) data, new residential loans funded by authorized deposit-taking institutions increased by 18% from the December quarter of 2023 to 2024. Owner-occupied loans continue to lead the market, making up almost 64% of new residential loans funded in December 2024. However, homebuyers who may not fit the rigid criteria of traditional lenders could face difficultly securing funding. Leading non-bank lender Liberty offers tailored lending solutions to support a diverse range of borrowers. Communications Manager, Bernadine Pantarotto, emphasized the lender's focus on flexible home loans. "From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue their property goals, and we're here to help make that a reality," said Ms Pantarotto. "We understand no two borrowers are the same, which is why we offer free-thinking home loans to help more people," said Ms Pantarotto. Whether a customer has a smaller deposit, variable income sources, or a complex credit history, Liberty is dedicated to finding ways to support them. "By looking at the unique circumstances of each borrower, we can help them navigate the complexities of the lending process and unlock opportunities that may have otherwise been out of reach," said Ms Pantarotto. From stepping into a first or next home, to expanding a property portfolio, Liberty has home loans tailored to customers individual needs. "Our flexible solutions continue to open doors for borrowers who may have faced challenges securing lending with traditional institutions," said Ms Pantarotto. Beyond home loans, Liberty offers solutions across personal, car, business, commercial, and SMSF loans. "Our free-thinking and customer-centric approach has allowed us to help over 900,000 people achieve their lending goals," said Ms Pantarotto. About Liberty As one of Australia's leading non-bank lenders, Liberty offers innovative solutions to support customers with greater choice. Over more than 27 years, this free-thinking approach to loan solutions has seen more than 900,000 customers across a wide range of home, car, business and personal loans, as well as SMSF lending and insurance. Liberty remains the only non-bank lender with an investment-grade credit rating offering custom and prime solutions to help more people get financial. Approved applicants only. Lending criteria apply. Fees and charges are payable. Liberty Financial Pty Ltd ACN 077 248 983 and Secure Funding Pty Ltd ABN 25 081 982 872 Australian Credit License 388133, together trading as Liberty Financial. Contact Information: Laura Orchard Media Coordinator +61 3 8635 8166 mediaenquiries@liberty.com.au SOURCE: Liberty Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for release publication, distribution, or dissemination directly, or indirectly, in whole or in part, in or into the United States. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 3, 2025) - Smithe Resources Corp. (TSXV: SMTH.P) ("Smithe" or the "Company"), a capital pool company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"), and TGC Gold Corp. ("TGC") are pleased to announce that the Exchange has conditionally approved the proposed business combination (the "Transaction") between TGC and the Company previously announced in the Company's press release dated February 19, 2025. The Transaction remains subject to the final approval of the Exchange and satisfaction of closing conditions customary for transactions of this nature. The Company, upon and subject to completion of the Transaction (the "Resulting Issuer"), will continue under the name "Toogood Gold Corp" and trade on the Exchange under the symbol "TGC". The Company has filed a filing statement that is dated effective March 31, 2025 (the "Filing Statement") with the Exchange and on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Additional information in respect of the Transaction, the Company and TGC can be found in the Filing Statement. Concurrent Financing In connection with the Transaction, the Company will complete a non-brokered private placement (the "Concurrent Financing") of: (i) 11,538,462 common shares of the Company, each qualifying as a "flow-through share" as such term is defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Flow-Through Shares"), at a price of $0.13 per Flow-Through Share for gross proceeds of $1,500,000; and (ii) a minimum of 20,000,000 non flow-through common shares of the Company (the "Non-FT Shares") and a maximum of 30,000,000 Non-FT Shares at a price of $0.10 per Non-FT Share, for gross proceeds of $2,000,000 in the case of the minimum offering, and up to $3,000,000 in the case of the maximum offering. In connection with the Concurrent Financing, the Company will pay finders' fees of up to 8.0% of the gross proceeds raised by the Company from the sale of Flow-Through Shares and Non-FT Shares to subscribers directly introduced to the Company by eligible finders. In addition, the Company will issue to eligible finders non-transferable finders' warrants of up to 8.0% of the number of Flow-Through Shares and Non-FT Shares sold in the Concurrent Financing. Each finders' warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.10 per share for a period of two years from the date of issuance. The proceeds of the Concurrent Financing will be used to fund (i) expenses of the Transaction and the Concurrent Financing, (ii) the exploration and development of the Toogood Gold Project, located in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, and (iii) working capital requirements of the Resulting Issuer following completion of the Transaction. All securities issued pursuant to the Concurrent Financing will be subject to a hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance. Closing of the Concurrent Financing is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals, including the approval of the Exchange. The Transaction is expected to close as soon as reasonably practicable following the completion of the Concurrent Financing. In accordance with the policies of the Exchange, the Company's common shares are currently halted from trading and will remain so until such time as required by Exchange policies. For additional details regarding the Transaction and the Toogood Gold Project, please see the Filing Statement and the Company's press release dated February 19, 2025, which are available under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. All currency references in the news release are in Canadian currency unless otherwise noted. About Smithe Resources Corp. Smithe is designated as a capital pool company under Exchange Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies. Smithe has not commenced commercial operations and has no assets other than cash. Smithe's objective is to identify and evaluate businesses or assets with a view to completing a qualifying transaction. Any proposed qualifying transaction must be approved by the Exchange and, in the case of a non-arm's-length qualifying transaction, must also receive majority approval of the minority shareholders. Until the completion of a qualifying transaction, Smithe will not carry on any business other than the identification and evaluation of businesses or assets with a view to completing a proposed qualifying transaction. As of the date hereof, Smithe has 7,400,000 common shares issued and outstanding (2,400,000 of which are subject to escrow restrictions), and an aggregate of 740,000 common shares are reserved for issuance upon the exercise of outstanding stock options. About TGC Gold Corp. TGC is a private mining company incorporated under the laws of British Columbia with its head office in British Columbia. Pursuant to an option agreement with Prospector Metals Corp., TGC holds the right to acquire a 100% interest in 16 mineral licenses, comprising 481 claims, located in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, known as the Toogood Gold Project. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, Exchange acceptance. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the Filing Statement prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative. The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. All information contained in this news release with respect to Smithe and TGC was supplied by the parties, respectively, for inclusion herein, and Smithe and its directors and officers have relied on TGC for any information concerning such party. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. Forward-Looking Information The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward looking statements, including statements relating to the completion of the Transaction, the proposed business of the Resulting Issuer on completion of the Transaction, the proposed listing for trading of the Resulting Issuer common shares, shareholder, director and regulatory approvals, the completion of the Concurrent Financing on the terms described herein or at all, the proposed use of proceeds of the Concurrent Financing, the receipt of Exchange approval for the Concurrent Financing, and future press releases and disclosure. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance of each of Smithe and TGC may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward looking statements. Although each of Smithe and TGC believes that the expectations reflected in forward looking statements herein are reasonable, they can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward looking statements herein will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, each of Smithe and TGC disclaims any intention and assume no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements herein to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward looking statements or otherwise. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247319 SOURCE: Smithe Resources Corp. An inquiry by MPs found that councils are exposing homeless children in England to serious health and safeguarding risks by housing them in unsuitable temporary accommodations. Officials said that the crisis in temporary accommodation in the region has resulted in a record 164,000 children without a permanent home. The latest inquiry concluded that many kids are living in "appalling conditions" and suffering significant impacts on their health and education. Homeless Children in England The MPs urged in a report that ministers should work on delivering more affordable homes and should take urgent action to support families who are living in temporary accommodation. Some local authorities in England have a legal duty to support homeless individuals, including giving them temporary accommodation. Temporary accommodation is typically used as a short-term solution to help individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness. These housing units can include hostels and rooms in shared houses. MPs on the Housing, Communities, and Local Government Committee launched the inquiry last year as they condemned the state of some of the temporary accommodation as being "utterly shameful," according to BBC. The inquiry heard evidence regarding "egregious hazards" to children, which included serious dampness, mold, and mice infestations within the temporary accommodations. Some families were also left to live in these temporary housing for several years. Florence Eshalomi, the Labour MP who leads the committee, said that evidence showing the deaths of 74 kids was linked to temporary housing that she believed "should shock all of us." She added that the situation should be a cause for concern, noting that the worst part is that 58 of the children who died were under the age of one. Eshalomi said the situation is not temporary and it is not acceptable to be left alone by itself. She argued that no one should expect children to have the best outcomes in life if they are forced to live out of suitcases and without access to basics such as a private kitchen and a bathroom, the UK Parliament reported. Difficulties of Temporary Accommodation The situation comes as people from other regions are coming to the United Kingdom, including those from Ukraine, to get away from the violence. One disabled man who sought safety was told by a local council to accept an inaccessible flat, or they would refuse to give him housing support in the future. The 40-year-old has a wife, a six-year-old son, and an eight-month-old daughter, who have lived in "constant stress" since seeking refuge in Sheffield in June 2022. The family in question first registered as homeless after being placed in unsuitable accommodation during the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Despite his disability, a local council told the father, who is in a wheelchair, that if he did not take a flat on the third floor of a complex, he would be struck off the housing list. This is even though he is not able to climb up the stairs, as per Yahoo News. Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - April 3, 2025) - Nu E Power Corp. (CSE: NUE) (OTC Pink: NUEPF) (the "Company" or "Nu E") announces the have settled outstanding indebtedness of the Company in the aggregate amount of $275,000.00 (the "Debt"), pursuant to the terms of debt settlement agreements with certain arm's length creditors (the "Creditors"). In settlement of the Debt, the Company has issued an aggregate of 833,333 common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Common Shares") to the Creditors at a price of $0.30 per Common Share for $175,000 of debt and $0.40 per Common Share for $100,000 of debt (the "Shares for Debt"). The Shares for Debt transaction is expected to close on April 10, 2025. All Common Shares issued under the Shares for Debt are subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance. The Shares for Debt remain subject to final acceptance by the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE"). About Nu E Power Corp. Nu E Power Corp. is a green energy company focused on the developing, construction, and operating clean and renewable energy infrastructure across North America. The Company has a partnership with Low Carbon Canada Solar Limited, a subsidiary of the UK based renewables major, Low Carbon Investment Management Ltd. To facilitate non-dilutive investment into the Company with the goal of developing up to 2GW of renewable energy projects in Canada by 2030. Contact Information For more information, please contact: The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release. This press release contains statements which constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information is often identified by the words "may," "would," "could," "should," "will," "intend," "plan," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect" or similar expressions. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflects the Company's management's expectations, estimates or projections concerning the business of the Company's future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, such information involves risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information are the following: regulatory approval with respect to the Shares for Debt; changes in Nu E's business, general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; decreases in the prevailing prices for products in the markets that the Company operates in; adverse changes in applicable laws or adverse changes in the application or enforcement of current laws; regulations and enforcement priorities of governmental authorities; compliance with government regulation and related costs; and other risks described in the Listing Statement of Nu E posted on SEDAR+. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247304 SOURCE: Nu E Corp. "Impact Modifiers: Global Markets looks at the special materials used to make plastics stronger and more durable. It covers market trends, major companies, and how these modifiers are driving growth in industries around the world." BOSTON, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest study from BCC Research, the demand for Impact Modifiers: Global Markets is projected to grow from $5.0 billion in 2023 to $6.9 billion by the end of 2029 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% during the forecast period. The report examines the types, uses, and industries for impact modifiers, based on manufacturers' revenues in constant U.S. dollars. It breaks down the global market by type (ABS, acrylics, ASA), application (PVC, nylon, engineering plastics), end use (packaging, construction, automotive), and region (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa). Interesting facts Impact modifiers enhance the strength and stiffness of plastics, often making them stronger than steel, and making materials lighter, tougher, and longer-lasting. Researchers are also developing eco-friendly options to reduce plastic waste. These modifiers play a key role in durable flexible electronics such as foldable phones and wearables, benefiting the consumer goods industry significantly. Factors contributing to the growth include: Necessity of Engineering Plastics: Engineering plastics are essential for creating durable, lightweight, and versatile products used in the automotive, electronics, and construction industries. Use in the Automotive Sector: In the automotive sector, engineering plastics are used to make vehicles lighter, stronger, and more fuel-efficient while enhancing safety and design. Request a Sample Copy of the Impact Modifiers: Global Markets Report Synopsis Report Metric Details Base year considered 2023 Forecast period considered 2024-2029 Base year market size $5.0 billion Market size forecast $6.9 billion Growth rate CAGR of 5.7% from 2024 to 2029 Segments covered Type, Application, End-Use Industry Regions covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa Countries covered U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, U.K., Portugal, Sweden, Hungary, Romania, Czech Republic, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, Middle East and Africa, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, UAE, Israel, Kenya, Egypt Market drivers Necessity of Engineering Plastics Use in the Automotive Sector This report addresses the following questions: What is the projected market size and growth rate? In terms of value, the global impact modifier market is projected to grow from $5.0 billion in 2023 to $6.9 billion by the end of 2029 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% during the forecast period. What segments are covered in the report? The impact modifier market is segmented by type, application, and end-use industry. Which end-use segment will dominate the market in 2029? The packaging segment will dominate in 2029. Which region has the largest market share? Asia-Pacific holds the largest share of the market. Leading companies in the market include: 3M Arkema BASF SE Dow Evonik Industries AG Kaneka Corp. Lanxess LG Chem Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corp. Mitsui Chemicals Inc. Related reports include: Global Markets for Plastics Additives: This report focuses on materials that enhance the strength, durability, and performance of plastics. These additives are vital for the packaging, construction, and automotive industries, driving innovation and sustainability. Purchase a copy of the report direct from BCC Research. For further information on these reports or to purchase one, please contact info@bccresearch.com . About BCC Research BCC Research market research reports provide objective, unbiased measurement and assessment of market opportunities. Our experienced industry analysts' goal is to help readers make informed business decisions, free of noise and hype. Contact Us Corporate HQ: 50 Milk St., Ste. 16, Boston, MA 02109, USA Email: info@bccresearch.com Phone: +1 781-489-7301 For media inquiries, email press@bccresearch.com or visit our media page for access to our market research library. Any data and analysis extracted from this press release must be accompanied by a statement identifying BCC Research LLC as the source and publisher. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2183242/BCC_Research_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/impact-modifiers-market-poised-for-5-7-cagr-growth-driven-by-demand-in-plastics-and-polymers-302420588.html The shareholders of JLT Mobile Computers AB (publ) are hereby invited to the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 4:00 pm at PM & Vanner Hotel, Vastergatan 10 in Vaxjo, Sweden. RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE The right to participate in the meeting is granted to those who are registered as shareholders in the share register maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB as of Monday, April 28, 2025, and who have notified their intention to participate no later than Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Shareholders who have their shares registered in the name of a nominee, through a bank or other nominee, must re-register the shares in their own name to have the right to participate in the meeting. Such re-registration (so-called voting rights registration), which may be temporary, must be completed by Monday, April 28, 2025, which means that shareholders wishing such re-registration must notify the nominee well in advance of this date. Voting rights registrations completed no later than April 30, 2025, will be considered in the preparation of the share register. The company has a total of 28,712,000 shares and votes. The company holds no own shares. NOTIFICATION OF PARTICIPATION Notification can be made in writing to JLT Mobile Computers AB, or by phone at 0470-53 03 00, and can also be ordered from the company at the above address. PROPOSED AGENDA Opening of the meeting Election of chairman of the meeting Preparation and approval of the voting list Approval of the agenda for the meeting Election of one or two adjusters Determination of whether the meeting has been duly convened Presentation of the annual report and auditor's report as well as the consolidated financial statements and consolidated auditor's report Resolutions on: a) Adoption of the income statement and balance sheet as well as the consolidated income statement and consolidated balance sheet b) Appropriation of the company's profit according to the adopted balance sheet c) Discharge from liability for the board members and the CEO Determination of the number of board members and deputy board members as well as auditors and deputy auditors Determination of fees for the board and the auditor Election of the board and auditor Proposal for resolution on the nomination committee The board's proposal for resolution on authorization to issue shares Closing of the meeting DIVIDEND (ITEM 8b) The board proposes that no dividend be paid for the financial year 2024 and that the company's profit be carried forward. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND AUDITOR ETC. (ITEMS 2, 9-11) The company's nomination committee, consisting of Emil Hjalmarsson (AB Grenspecialisten), chairman, Jan Olofsson (own holding), and Wilhelm Gruvberg (Alcur Fonder), proposes: that Ola Blomberg be elected chairman of the meeting, that the board consists of six members without deputies, that the company has one auditor without deputies, that the board's remuneration be set at a total of SEK 700,000, of which SEK 200,000 to the chairman of the board and SEK 100,000 each to the other members, that the auditor's fee be paid according to an approved invoice, that the board members Ola Blomberg, Jan Sjowall, Jessica Svenmar, Per Adelroth, and Karl Hill be re-elected and that Tommy Svensson be newly elected as a board member for the period until the end of the next annual general meeting, that Ola Blomberg be re-elected as chairman of the board, and that Luminor Revision AB be elected as the company's auditor for the period until the end of the next annual general meeting, with Tommy Jonasson intended to be the principal auditor. Information about the board member proposed for new election Tommy Svensson has extensive experience in board work and corporate management through strategic work, corporate governance, and leadership in both international and national environments. Tommy Svensson has solid business and financial knowledge through his background as CFO for companies in both private equity and public environments. Tommy is currently the CEO of TSS Consult & Invest AB and holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Auditing. Tommy Svensson's previous experience includes roles such as CFO for Johbeco AB, Hemtex AB, KappAhl AB, Vardapoteket i Norden AB, Jetshop AB, among others. Additionally, he has acted as an advisor to several companies and in acquisitions and mergers in the Nordic market. Tommy Svensson has completed board training and has held several board assignments over the past 20 years. Tommy Svensson holds 1,516,000 shares in the company. NOMINATION COMMITTEE (ITEM 12) The company's major shareholders propose that the company have a nomination committee consisting of three members, with one member appointed by each of the three largest shareholders in the company. The chairman of the nomination committee shall, unless the members agree otherwise, be the member appointed by the largest shareholder. The nomination committee shall have the opportunity to co-opt the chairman of the company's board. The nomination committee shall, ahead of the Annual General Meeting 2026, be constituted based on shareholder statistics as of the last banking day in September 2025 and other shareholder information available to the company at that time. The chairman of the company's board shall convene an inaugural meeting for the nomination committee when shareholder statistics are available. If, during the nomination committee's mandate period, one or more of the shareholders who appointed members to the nomination committee no longer belong to the three largest shareholders, the members appointed by these shareholders shall resign, and new shareholders in order of size shall be offered the opportunity to appoint members, however, only three shareholders in order of size need to be consulted. Unless special reasons exist, no changes shall be made to the composition of the nomination committee if only marginal changes in voting rights have occurred or if the change occurs later than three months before the Annual General Meeting. The majority of the nomination committee members shall be independent in relation to the company and the company management. The CEO or other person from the company management shall not be a member of the nomination committee. At least one of the nomination committee members shall be independent in relation to the largest shareholder or group of shareholders acting in concert regarding the company's management. Board members shall not constitute a majority of the nomination committee members. If more than one board member is included in the nomination committee, at most one of them may be dependent in relation to the company's major shareholders. No remuneration shall be paid to the nomination committee members. If necessary, the company shall cover reasonable costs for external consultants deemed necessary by the nomination committee to fulfill its assignment. The composition of the nomination committee shall be announced through a separate press release as soon as the nomination committee is appointed and no later than six months before the Annual General Meeting. The information shall also be available on the company's website, where it shall also be stated how shareholders can submit proposals to the nomination committee. The nomination committee shall prepare proposals on the following matters to be presented to the Annual General Meeting 2025 for resolution: proposal for chairman of the meeting; proposal for the board; proposal for chairman of the board; proposal for remuneration and other compensation for board assignments to each of the board members and compensation for committee work; proposal for auditor; proposal for remuneration to the company's auditor; and proposal for instructions for the nomination committee ahead of the Annual General Meeting 2027. AUTHORIZATION TO ISSUE SHARES (ITEM 13) The board proposes that the board be authorized, until the next Annual General Meeting, on one or more occasions, to decide on the issuance of up to 2,871,200 shares, which corresponds to 10 percent of the number of shares in the company as of the date of the Annual General Meeting. The board shall have the right to decide on deviations from the shareholders' preferential rights and provisions regarding non-cash issues, set-off issues, or other conditions. The issue price for the new shares shall be determined based on the market price of the share at the respective issue occasion. The purpose of the authorization and the reason for the possible deviation from the shareholders' preferential rights is to enable the company to appropriately raise capital for financing its operations and for carrying out corporate acquisitions. The CEO is authorized to make formal adjustments to the decision that may be necessary in connection with its registration. DOCUMENTATION ETC. The annual report and other decision-making materials are available at the company and on the company's website, www.jltmobile.com, no later than three weeks before the meeting and will be sent to shareholders who request it and provide their postal address. Shareholders are reminded of their right to request information according to Chapter 7, Section 32 of the Swedish Companies Act. For information on how your personal data is processed, see Euroclear's Privacy Policy. Privacy-notice-bolagsstammor-engelska.pdf Ifyou have any questions regarding our processing of personal data, you can contact us via email at info@jltmobile.com The company's organization number is 556239-4071 and headquarter is based in Vaxjo, Sweden. Vaxjo April 2025 The board directors of JLT Mobile computers AB (publ) Attachment 4 April 2025, 08:00 CET ArcelorMittal (the 'Company') has today published the convening notice for its Annual General Meeting of shareholders (the 'General Meeting'), which will be held on 6 May 2025 at 12:30 CET at the Company's registered office, 24-26, boulevard d'Avranches, L-1160 Luxembourg, Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg. The ArcelorMittal shareholders entitled to vote at the Annual General Meeting will be those who are shareholders on the record date of 22 April 2025 at midnight (24:00 CET) (the 'Record Date'). The convening notice, the Annual Report 2024, the Form 20-F 2024, the voting forms and all other meeting documentation will be available on ArcelorMittal's website www.arcelormittal.com under 'Investors - Equity investors - Shareholders events - AGM - Annual General Meeting of shareholders, 6 May 2025'. Shareholders may obtain a soft copy of the Annual Report 2024unless they specify that they would like to receive free of charge a hard copy by mail (in which case they should provide the relevant postal address) or at the Company's registered office. ENDS About ArcelorMittal ArcelorMittal is one of the world's leading integrated steel and mining companies with a presence in 60 countries and primary steelmaking operations in 15 countries. It is the largest steel producer in Europe, among the largest in the Americas, and has a growing presence in Asia through its joint venture AM/NS India. ArcelorMittal sells its products to a diverse range of customers including the automotive, engineering, construction and machinery industries, and in 2024 generated revenues of $62.4 billion, produced 57.9 million metric tonnes of crude steel and 42.4 million tonnes of iron ore. Our purpose is to produce smarter steels for people and planet. Steels made using innovative processes which use less energy, emit significantly less carbon and reduce costs. Steels that are cleaner, stronger and reusable. Steels for the renewable energy infrastructure that will support societies as they transform through this century. With steel at our core, our inventive people and an entrepreneurial culture at heart, we will support the world in making that change. ArcelorMittal is listed on the stock exchanges of New York (MT), Amsterdam (MT), Paris (MT), Luxembourg (MT) and on the Spanish stock exchanges of Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid and Valencia (MTS). http://corporate.arcelormittal.com/ OSLO, Norway, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Annual General Meeting of Aker ASA will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 11:00 CEST as a virtual meeting. The proposed agenda includes re-election of the board of directors. The general meeting will be conducted as a virtual meeting only, accessible online via Lumi AGM. All shareholders will be able to participate in the meeting, vote and ask questions from smartphones, tablets or desktop devices. For further information regarding electronic participation, please refer to the guide available at www.akerasa.com. No pre-registration is needed for attending online, but attendees must be logged in before the meeting starts. Deadline for registration of advance votes and proxies is Monday, April 28, 2025, at 16:00 CEST. Please find attached the following documents: - Notice and Proxy forms for the Annual General Meeting - Proposed Resolutions for the Annual General Meeting - Proposal from the Nomination Committee - Executive Remuneration Policy - Executive Remuneration Report 2024 - Corporate Governance Statement 2024 All documents to be processed in the meeting are also available on www.akerasa.com. Investors contact: Svein Oskar Stoknes, Chief Financial Officer Aker ASA Tel: +47 94 80 46 43 E-mail: svein.stoknes@akerasa.com Media contact: Atle Kigen, Head of Media Relations and Public Affairs Aker ASA Tel: +47 907 84 878 Email: atle.kigen@akerasa.com This information is subject of the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5 -12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/aker-asa/r/aker-asa--notice-of-annual-general-meeting,c4130634 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/18835/4130634/3368196.pdf Notice and Proxy forms for the Annual General Meeting https://mb.cision.com/Public/18835/4130634/82870bb1440ea71f.pdf Proposed Resolutions for the Annual General Meeting https://mb.cision.com/Public/18835/4130634/bc7866dcd7448732.pdf Proposal from the Nomination Committee https://mb.cision.com/Public/18835/4130634/9b4a015c5440bc61.pdf Executive Remuneration Policy https://mb.cision.com/Public/18835/4130634/a50b1b86e43729af.pdf Executive Remuneration Report for 2024 https://mb.cision.com/Public/18835/4130634/9fea0739ba0b177b.pdf Corporate Governance Statement 2024 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/aker-asa-notice-of-annual-general-meeting-302420620.html SES S.A. ("SES" or the "Company") held the Company's Annual General Meeting ("AGM") at its headquarters in Betzdorf, Luxembourg, yesterday. The shareholders have voted all resolutions in accordance with the recommendations made by SES's Board of Directors, notably the company's 2024 annual accounts and the proposed annual dividend of EUR 0.50 per A-share (EUR 0.20 per B-share). The total amount includes the interim dividend of EUR 0.25 per A-share (EUR 0.10 per B-share) already paid to shareholders on 17 October 2024. The final dividend of EUR 0.25 per A-share (EUR 0.10 per B-share) will be paid to shareholders on 17 April 2025. Also as recommended by the Board of Directors, the shareholders approved the appointments of Mrs Ellen Lord and Mr John Shaw to the Board of Directors and the non-binding agenda item received from Atlas Infrastructure Partners regarding capital returns. "The outcome of the AGM is the result of SES's ongoing commitment to productive shareholder engagement, ensuring alignment and confidence in the Company's long-term strategic direction," said Adel Al-Saleh, CEO of SES. "We greatly appreciate the constructive collaboration and have benefited from our various shareholder discussions. We welcome Ellen Lord and John Shaw to our Board of Directors as we continue to drive SES towards its next phase of success." Shareholders also re-elected Mr Peter van Bommel, Mrs Fabienne Bozet and Mrs Francoise Thoma as directors for another three-year mandate. Following the AGM, the Board of Directors elected Mr Frank Esser as Chairperson for a period of one year and both, Mrs Anne-Catherine Ries and Mr Peter van Bommel as Vice-Chairperson also for a period of one year. Detailed results on all matters voted on at the AGM will be available on the company's webpage in due course at: https://www.ses.com/company/investors/shareholder-information/general-meeting-shareholders. The 2024 Annual Report is available for download at: https://www.ses.com/company/investors/reports-and-presentations Follow us on: Twitter Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Instagram Read our Blogs > Visit the Media Gallery > About SES SES has a bold vision to deliver amazing experiences everywhere on Earth by distributing the highest quality video content and providing seamless data connectivity services around the world. As a provider of global content and connectivity solutions, SES owns and operates a geosynchronous earth orbit (GEO) fleet and medium earth orbit (MEO) constellation of satellites, offering a combination of global coverage and high-performance services. By using its intelligent, cloud-enabled network, SES delivers high-quality connectivity solutions anywhere on land, at sea or in the air, and is a trusted partner to telecommunications companies, mobile network operators, governments, connectivity and cloud service providers, broadcasters, video platform operators and content owners around the world. The Company is headquartered in Luxembourg and listed on Paris and Luxembourg stock exchanges (Ticker: SESG). Further information is available at: www.ses.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250403294388/en/ Contacts: For further information please contact: Christian Kern Investor Relations Tel: +352 710 725 7787 christian.kern@ses.com Suzanne Ong Communications Tel. +352 710 725 500 suzanne.ong@ses.com Ende Mai leitete US-Prasident Donald Trump mit der Unterzeichnung mehrerer Dekrete eine weitreichende Wende in der amerikanischen Energiepolitik ein. Im Fokus: der beschleunigte Ausbau der Kernenergie. Mit einem umfassenden Manahmenpaket sollen Genehmigungsprozesse reformiert, kleinere Reaktoren gefordert und der Anteil von Atomstrom in den USA massiv gesteigert werden. Ausloser ist der explodierende Energiebedarf durch KI-Rechenzentren, der eine stabile, CO-arme Grundlastversorgung zwingend notwendig macht. In unserem kostenlosen Spezialreport erfahren Sie, welche 3 Unternehmen jetzt im Zentrum dieser energiepolitischen Neuausrichtung stehen, und wer vom kommenden Boom der Nuklearindustrie besonders profitieren konnte. Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Verpassen Sie nicht, welche Aktien besonders von der Energiewende in den USA profitieren durften, und laden Sie sich das Gratis-PDF jetzt kostenlos herunter. Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden! VALBY, Denmark, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- H. Lundbeck A/S (Lundbeck) will present positive interim results from the open-label extension of the PACIFIC trial investigating bexicaserin, in addition to new analyses from clinical trials and real-world data with eptinezumab. H. Lundbeck A/S (Lundbeck) today announced that recent pipeline data will be presented at the 2025 AAN Annual Meeting in San Diego, U.S. The data includes an oral presentation of the six-month results from the open-label extension (OLE) of the Phase 1b/2a PACIFIC trial of bexicaserin, a novel treatment under development for seizures associated with Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs).1 DEEs are the most severe group of epilepsies characterized by drug-resistant seizures, and developmental slowing or regression.2 "DEEs can be caused by a range of acquired, syndromal, and genetic etiologies, with more than 900 genes implicated. However, only a few subtypes currently have approved therapies, leaving many patients in need. The DEE-inclusive PACIFIC trial and six-month OLE data indicate that bexicaserin may be able to help address this unmet need across multiple DEE types, and highlights Lundbeck's expanding commitment to the neuro-rare space. We look forward to engaging with the global neuroscience community at AAN to discuss the data and potential of bexicaserin to support patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals in the management of DEEs," said Johan Luthman, EVP and Head of Research & Development at Lundbeck. The OLE included patients who successfully completed the PACIFIC trial3 and was designed to evaluate the long-term safety (up to 52 weeks), tolerability, and efficacy of bexicaserin in a cohort of participants with DEEs who were newly exposed to bexicaserin for at least 6 months.1 The OLE interim analysis showed that bexicaserin continues to exhibit a favourable safety and tolerability profile at six months, consistent with the safety profile observed during the PACIFIC trial. All bexicaserin treatment-naive patients (n=9) successfully transitioned from placebo to bexicaserin, reinforcing the tolerability of bexicaserin in an inclusive DEE population. In this placebo-bexicaserin switch population, a 57.3% reduction in countable motor seizures and 61.2% reduction in total seizures was observed, consistent with the response in non-naive participants at 6 months (n=32).* Moreover, more than half of patients newly exposed to bexicaserin (n=5/9) experienced a =50% reduction from baseline in countable motor seizures.1* In addition, Lundbeck will present recent post-hoc analyses and real-world data for eptinezumab investigating meaningful endpoints, such as good days per month, and sustained treatment response. Lundbeck remains focused on raising the bar around preventive treatment expectations in migraine and increasing the understanding of the holistic impact of migraine on quality of life. *As compared to baseline at entry into PACIFIC study. As reported by trial patients based on individual migraine experience Details of Lundbeck presentations at AAN 2025: Bexicaserin Oral Presentation Monday, April 7, Session S20, 4:18 - 4:30pm PT Title: Safety, Tolerability, and Efficacy of Bexicaserin in a Cohort of Participants with Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies: Interim Results of a Phase 1b/2a PACIFIC Study Open-Label Extension Eptinezumab Poster Presentations: Title: Long-term Maintenance of =50% and =75% Migraine Response With Eptinezumab in Patients With High-frequency Episodic Migraine and Chronic Migraine and 2-4 Prior Migraine Preventive Treatment Failures4 I Poster number: P12.005 Title: Patient-reported Impact of =75% Increase in Good Days/Month on Migraine Symptoms, Quality of Life, and Brain Fog: Real-world Study of Adults With Chronic Migraine Treated With Eptinezumab5 I Poster number: P12.010 Title: Long-term Reductions in Monthly Headache Days With Eptinezumab Treatment in Adults With Chronic Migraine: Results From the PREVAIL Study6 I Poster number: P12.003 About Bexicaserin Bexicaserin (LP352) is an oral, centrally acting 5-hydroxytryptamine 2C (5-HT2C) receptor superagonist with no observed impact on 5-HT2B and 5-HT2A receptor subtypes. It is being evaluated in a global Phase III clinical program (the DEEp Program). The FDA has granted Breakthrough Therapy designation for bexicaserin for the treatment of seizures associated with Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs) for patients two years of age and older. Bexicaserin is an investigational compound that is not approved for marketing by any regulatory authority worldwide. The PACIFIC trial was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, DEE-inclusive trial (NCT05364021) in 52 participants with Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, or DEE Other, who had =4 countable motor seizures during the 28-day baseline period, and who were on a stable regimen of 1 to 4 concomitant antiseizure medications.3 About eptinezumab (Vyepti) Eptinezumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) which was purposefully developed for IV administration. The efficacy and safety of eptinezumab 100 mg and 300 mg was investigated in two phase III clinical trials (PROMISE-1 in episodic migraine and PROMISE-2 in chronic migraine), where eptinezumab met its primary endpoint of decrease in mean monthly migraine days (MMD) over weeks 1-12 in both episodic and chronic migraine. Furthermore, the clinical trial program observed a treatment benefit over placebo that was observed for both doses of eptinezumab as early as day 1 post-infusion. The safety of eptinezumab was evaluated in more than 2,000 adult patients with migraine who received at least one dose of eptinezumab. The most common adverse reactions (=2% and at least 2% or greater than placebo) in the clinical trials for the preventive treatment of migraine were nasopharyngitis and hypersensitivity. Approximately 8% of patients on 300 mg, 6% of patients on 100 mg and 6% of patients on placebo in PROMISE-1 and PROMISE-2 experienced nasopharyngitis. In PROMISE-1 and PROMISE-2, 1.9% of patients treated with eptinezumab discontinued treatment due to adverse reactions. Eptinezumab was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults in February 2020, and in January 2022, eptinezumab was granted marketing authorization by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the prophylaxis of migraine in adults who have at least four migraine days per month. Today, eptinezumab is launched in the U.S. market, as well as in more than 30 markets worldwide. Contacts Marie Petterson Jens Hyer Media Relations Lead, Corp. Communication Vice President, Head of Investor Relations MEEP@lundbeck.com JSHR@lundbeck.com +45 29 82 21 82 +45 30 83 45 01 Palle Holm Olesen Vice President, Investor Relations PALO@lundbeck.com +45 30 83 24 26 About H. Lundbeck A/S Lundbeck is a biopharmaceutical company focusing exclusively on brain health. With more than 70 years of experience in neuroscience, we are committed to improving the lives of people with neurological and psychiatric diseases. Brain disorders affect a large part of the world's population, and the effects are felt throughout society. With the rapidly improving understanding of the biology of the brain, we hold ourselves accountable for advancing brain health by curiously exploring new opportunities for treatments. As a focused innovator, we strive for our research and development programs to tackle some of the most complex neurological challenges. We develop transformative medicines targeting people for whom there are few or no treatments available, expanding into neuro-specialty and neuro-rare from our strong legacy within psychiatry and neurology. We are committed to fighting stigma and we act to improve health equity. We strive to create long term value for our shareholders by making a positive contribution to patients, their families and society as a whole. Lundbeck has approximately 5,500 employees in more than 50 countries and our products are available in more than 80 countries. For additional information, we encourage you to visit our corporate site www.lundbeck.com and connect with us via LinkedIn. References: 1. American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting 2025. Safety, Tolerability, and Efficacy of Bexicaserin in a Cohort of Participants with Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies: Interim Results of a Phase 1b/2a PACIFIC Study Open-Label Extension. 2. Sheffer I, et al. Epilepsia. 2025 Feb 27.doi: 10.1111/epi.18265. 3. Kaye R, et al. Efficacy and safety of bexicaserin (LP352) in adolescent and adult participants with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies: Results of the phase 1b/2a PACIFIC study. Presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology; April 13-18, 2024 4. Ailani J, et al. Poster Presentation. American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting 2025. 5. Argoff C, et al. Poster presentation. American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting 2025. 6. Starling A, et al. Poster Presentation. American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting 2025. CONTACT: H. Lundbeck A/S Ottiliavej 9, 2500 Valby, Denmark +45 3630 1311 info@lundbeck.com This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/h--lundbeck-a-s/r/lundbeck-to-present-positive-pipeline-data-at-american-academy-of-neurology--aan--annual-meeting,c4131034 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/18215/4131034/3368357.pdf Lundbeck AAN_ Final View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/lundbeck-to-present-positive-pipeline-data-at-american-academy-of-neurology-aan-annual-meeting-302420645.html Die Finanzwelt ist im Umbruch! Nach Jahren der Dominanz erschuttert Donald Trumps erratische Wirtschaftspolitik das Fundament des amerikanischen Kapitalismus. Handelskriege, Rekordzolle und politische Isolation haben eine Kapitalflucht historischen Ausmaes ausgelost. Milliarden stromen aus den USA und suchen neue, lukrative Ziele. Und genau hier kommt China ins Spiel. Trotz aller Spannungen wachst die chinesische Wirtschaft dynamisch weiter, Innovation und Digitalisierung treiben die Markte an. Im kostenlosen Spezialreport stellen wir Ihnen 5 Aktien aus China vor, die vom US-Niedergang profitieren und das Potenzial haben, den Markt regelrecht zu uberflugeln. Wer jetzt klug investiert, sichert sich den Zugang zu den neuen Wachstums-Champions von morgen. Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Verpassen Sie nicht, welche 5 Aktien die Konkurrenz aus den USA outperformen durften, und laden Sie sich das Gratis-PDF jetzt kostenlos herunter. Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden! Harvey, Louisiana--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Ron Austin Law is proud to announce that its principal attorney, Ron Austin, has received the Peer AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell. Ron Austin of Ron Austin Law Awarded Peer AV Preeminent Rating From Martindale-Hubbell To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/247198_c2b643d8843e79c8_002full.jpg The Peer AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell is the highest peer rating standard awarded to lawyers who demonstrate their dedication to leadership and excellence in law. This coveted rating, determined following an extensive peer review in the areas of legal ability, professionalism, and ethical standards, indicates that Ron ranks at the highest peer rating standard. Commenting on the win, Ron Austin thanked the entire Ron Austin Law team for their unwavering focus on upholding the highest level of excellence in personal injury law. He explained that this award serves as a significant industry validation of Ron Austin Law's standing as a leading personal injury law firm in Louisiana. "Receiving this prestigious award is an incredible honor and a reflection of our firm's dedication to being an advocate for justice," he said. "It is great to have all the hard work our team has put in be recognized by our peers." Ron Austin Law has a rich history of being a trusted advocate for individuals and families facing personal injury challenges. With over $1 billion recovered for clients and a combined 88 years of legal experience, the firm has established itself as the go-to home of professional and experienced Louisiana personal injury lawyers. For the personal injury law firm, the Martindale-Hubbell Peer AV Preeminent Rating is more than an award recognizing its principal attorney - it is an affirmation of the firm's efforts to drive results and meaningful change for clients. Ron Austin shared that his team embodies his vision to deliver legal expertise with compassionate advocacy. "Accolades like these inspire us to keep pushing for legal excellence and to champion fairness in the justice system," Ron said. "My approach has always been anchored in service, integrity, and justice. We focus on personalized, results-driven legal representation because those are the values we bring to every case." He added, "For us, practicing law is about more than legal strategy - it's about people. We're committed to making sure every client is truly heard and respected." Cannot view this video? Visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hIbCZLW7Onk With every recognition, the nationally recognized leader in mass tort litigation embarks on expanding their legal acumen. Ron revealed that this endorsement from legal peers not only validates the firm's excellence in law but also renews its focus on providing accessible legal services. "In the past, we have taken our successes as a foundation for growth and we plan to continue building upon our successes. We remain committed to offering comprehensive legal services that maintain the highest ethical standards in order to lessen the concerns of our clients." Visit Ron Austin Law's profile on Martindale-Hubbell to learn more about what the Peer AV Preeminent Rating means for the firm. For more information on the firm, its attorneys, and services, visit the website. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247198 SOURCE: Plentisoft A mother and her three children were detained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and taken to a Texas detention facility, sparking outrage. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, alongside advocacy groups and local school leaders, expressed concern about the development. The mother and her children were taken into federal custody amid President Donald Trump's efforts to deport hundreds of immigrants without any court proceedings or criminal charges. Mother and Three Kids Detained by ICE The New York Immigration Coalition is a non-profit organization that works to campaign for immigrant rights. It was the one that confirmed the unidentified family, which included a student in third grade, was detained by ICE at a dairy farm in Sackets Harbor, New York. The authorities then transferred the family to the Karnes County Detention Facility in Texas, which is roughly 1,800 miles from where they were. Murad Awawdeh, the group's president and CEO, said that it was horrifying that the kids and their mother were taken from their home and just vanished, according to NBC News. Awadeh added that the family that was detained was "correctly navigating the immigration system and attending their immigration court hearings." He argued that Trump and Tom Homan are simply "acting fully outside the law." Following the development, neither ICE nor the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) replied to requests for comments about the seizure of the family. Residents of Sackets Harbor plan a rally in the town to call for the mother and her children's release from custody. Gov. Hochul called the detention of the mother and her three children "just plain cruel," and she immediately called on ICE to return the family to her state. It comes as the DHS, ICE, and other federal law enforcement agencies have started operations in parts of New York to enforce immigration law on Mar. 24, 2025, CBS News reported. Donald Trump's Immigration Efforts Awadeh added that the United States is supposed to be a nation of laws, but the family, despite navigating the proper immigration channels, was arrested by ICE agents. Hochul said that she is instead in favor of deporting violent criminals and not innocent families. Sackets Harbor Superintendent Jennifer Gaffney said that law enforcement officials were executing a warrant for a person who was allegedly involved in a crime when they took custody of the mother and her three children. She added that the kids taken by ICE agents were classmates and were part of the fabric of the school community. Gaffney echoed Hochul's calls for the family to be returned to their home, as per Syracuse. Expansion of successful logistics cooperation to foster growth for SMEs in both established and new markets Focus on logistical efficiency and compliant trade to drive mutual market expansion DHL to support Temu's local-to-local initiative, which expects to eventually account for 80% of its sales in Europe BONN, Germany, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DHL Group, the world's leading logistics company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the e-commerce marketplace Temu to deepen their cooperation and to further expand their successful partnership. The agreement aims to enhance collaboration to better support local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in established markets as well as in growth markets, such as Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Both parties are committed to fostering compliant trade and sustainable practices. DHL Group will support Temu through its logistics expertise, including multimodal transportation solutions, to provide more efficient and sustainable supply chain services. With its dense network and global presence, DHL Group is the ideal partner to support Temu's growth in both established and new markets. "Through our various DHL divisions, we are already providing a wide range of logistics services and solutions, including air freight and last-mile delivery. We are excited to elevate our partnership with Temu to the next level. By combining our logistics capabilities with Temu's innovative platform, we can create more efficient, compliant and convenient solutions that benefit both consumers and local businesses in the markets we serve," states Katja Busch, CCO and Head of DHL Customer Solutions & Innovation. As part of the Memorandum of Understanding, DHL Group will utilize its logistics expertise to support Temu's operations in Europe, including its local-to-local model, which enables local merchandise partners to sell on its platform and supports local fulfillment. Temu expects up to 80% of its total sales in Europe to come from this local-to-local model. Additionally, the e-commerce platform will enable European-based sellers to reach global markets in the future. This allows, in particular, SMEs to scale and expand their businesses. DHL will also assist Temu in growing its presence in e-commerce markets, including the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) regions. "This letter of intent marks a significant step in our partnership with DHL Group. Its extensive network and logistics capabilities will help support our mission to increase consumer access to affordable products and help increase growth opportunities for sellers," states Qin Sun, co-founder of Temu. - End - You can find the press release for download as well as further information on group.dhl.com/pressreleases DHL Group is the world's leading logistic company. The Group connects people and markets and is an enabler of global trade. It aspires to be the first choice for customers, employees, investors and green logistics worldwide. To this end, DHL Group is focusing on accelerating sustainable growth in its profitable core logistics businesses and Group growth initiatives. The Group contributes to the world through sustainable business practices, corporate citizenship, and environmental activities. By the year 2050, DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics. DHL Group is home to two strong brands: DHL offers a comprehensive range of parcel, express, freight transport, and supply chain management services as well as e-commerce logistics solutions. Deutsche Post is the largest postal service provider in Europe and the market leader in the German mail market. DHL Group employs approximately 602,000 people in over 220 countries and territories worldwide. The Group generated revenues of approximately 84.2 billion Euros in 2024. The logistics company for the world. About Temu Temu is a global e-commerce platform connecting consumers with millions of manufacturers, brands, and business partners. Operating in over 90 markets worldwide, Temu is committed to providing affordable, high-quality products that enable customers to live better lives. Founded in 2022, Temu's mission is to create an inclusive environment where consumers and businesses can thrive. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2655001/DHL_Group_TEMU_MoU_PR_Newswire_version.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2655002/TEMU_x_DHL_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/dhl-group-and-temu-sign-memorandum-of-understanding-to-support-local-businesses-302419680.html -'Eclipse of Perceptions' exhibit continues Kia's dedication to supporting art and culture by providing a platform for artists from diverse backgrounds -Conceptual artworks interpret Kia's 'Opposites United' design philosophy through various mediums including sculpture, sound and light -'Transcend Journey' exhibit highlights the transformative power of Kia's new PBV and EV models -Opposites United: Eclipse of Perceptions runs from April 7-13 at Museo della Permanente in Milan -Transcend Journey display takes place from April 7-9 at Eastend Studios in Milan SEOUL, South Korea, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Corporation will host dual events at Milan Design Week 2025; a public exhibition highlighting its 'Opposites United' design philosophy, alongside an exclusive installation featuring the brand's latest PBV and EV models. Opposites United: Eclipse of Perceptions Opposites United: Eclipse of Perceptions, a public exhibition, will showcase Kia's ongoing transformation while fostering cultural exchange and creative exploration that both challenges and inspires. Featuring conceptual artworks by visionary artists such as Philippe Parreno and A.A. Murakami, the exhibition invites visitors to engage with the ideas, philosophies, and expressions that shape contemporary creativity. Spread across several rooms in the Museo della Permanente, each space offers a sensory journey that immerses participants in artworks designed to encourage a reevaluation of their perception of the possible. Opposites United: Eclipse of Perceptions runs from April 7-13 at the Museo della Permanente. More details will be revealed on April 7. Transcend Journey Transcend Journey, an exclusive installation, will explore the evolution of mobility, highlighting how Kia's vehicles can bridge the gap between urban and outdoor experiences. Focusing on Kia's latest PBV and EV models, the artwork will demonstrate how these vehicles enhance the user experience by connecting modern mobility with adventurous lifestyles. A twisting sculpture will symbolize the harmonious uniting of opposing ideas, while collaborations with leading South Korean outdoor and coffee brands will highlight the diverse applications of Kia's vehicles. Transcend Journey takes place from April 7-9 at Eastend Studios. Further details of the exhibit will be provided on April 10. Kia at Milan Design Week For a third consecutive year, Kia will use the occasion of Milan Design Week to shed new light on the evolution of its 'Opposites United' design philosophy. To read the full release, visit the Kia Global Media Center at www.kianewscenter.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2657961/iMAGE1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2657962/iMAGE2.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/kia-showcases-design-philosophy-and-latest-vehicles-with-eclipse-of-perceptions-and-transcend-journey-exhibits-at-milan-design-week-2025-302420465.html LOUISVILLE, Colo., April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Boulder Imaging has announced a partnership with Roc Conservation Tech to expand IdentiFlight's global reach and enhance wildlife conservation within the wind energy sector. With a shared commitment to bridging technology and environmental stewardship, Roc Conservation Tech will play a pivotal role in growing IdentiFlight's presence and impact in South Africa's renewable energy industry. On the brink of a renewable energy revolution in South Africa, Roc Conservation Tech is uniquely positioned to assist as the country enters this transformational era by specializing in leveraging data science and engineering for conservation, with expertise in bird detection systems, conservation drones and environmental monitoring. The collaboration between the two companies will promote the IdentiFlight mission to help mitigate the cumulative impacts of wind energy on biodiversity. The IdentiFlight system operates with 99 percent accuracy and reduces bird fatalities in wind farms by more than 85 percent in 12 countries across five continents. "The need for sustainable energy solutions comes with the responsibility to protect biodiversity," said Dirk van der Walt, founder of Roc Conservation Tech. "South Africa's wind energy sector is rapidly growing, yet it is home to diverse and vulnerable bird populations that require advanced conservation measures. Partnering with IdentiFlight to deploy these systems in South African wind farms will help ensure that renewable energy expansion in the region is both responsible and sustainable." "Strong partnerships are essential to Boulder Imaging's mission and IdentiFlight's continued growth," said Don Mills, president and chief operating officer of Boulder Imaging. "By collaborating with Roc Conservation Tech, we are bringing a wealth of local expertise and resources to the South African market, enhancing our ability to efficiently and responsively serve our customers." Developed by Boulder Imaging, IdentiFlight is a state-of-the-art bird detection and informed curtailment system designed to mitigate the impact of wind energy projects on bird populations. Using advanced artificial intelligence and optical sensor technology, IdentiFlight detects, classifies and quantifies risks to sensitive bird species such as the Cape vulture, martial eagle, Verreaux's eagle and blue crane. If collision risk meets a predetermined threshold, IdentiFlight provides temporary shut down on demand to impacted wind turbines - optimizing energy production while minimizing environmental impact. The first South African IdentiFlight station was installed in June 2024. This system has already been trained to detect and classify more than 20 unique species with over 98 percent accuracy, including the Cape vulture, African marsh harrier and African fish eagle. Join the Movement for Sustainable Wind Energy To learn more about IdentiFlight's innovative conservation technology, visit www.identiflight.com. To collaborate on conservation and wind energy projects in South Africa, visit www.rocconservationtech.co.za. About Boulder Imaging Founded in 1995, Boulder Imaging develops and delivers innovative machine vision and artificial intelligence solutions that transform quality assurance. With unprecedented speed, accuracy and scalability, its inspection systems solve the toughest challenges in industries including architectural products, automotive, renewable energy, security paper and banknotes. Headquartered in Colorado, Boulder Imaging is committed to advancing machine vision technology to address complex inspection needs worldwide. For more information, visit www.boulderimaging.com. About Roc Conservation Tech Roc Conservation Tech was founded on the vision of merging advanced technology with environmental conservation. Built on a foundation of control engineering and more than 20 years of industry experience, the company leverages data science and innovative technology to address complex environmental challenges. Specializing in bird detection systems, conservation drones and environmental monitoring, Roc Conservation Tech helps industries grow sustainably while protecting wildlife and preserving natural ecosystems. For more information, visit www.rocconservationtech.co.za. CONTACT INFORMATION Tawney Eisenbraun Marketing and Communications Manager marketing@boulderimaging.com Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0c26b016-0078-4523-82de-e3e1a50eda39 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/45bbf893-bd8b-4b84-835d-28db0778ac3b BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - European stocks tumbled on Thursday with several markets falling to multi-month lows as U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping 'reciprocal tariffs' announcement triggered widespread selling. U.S. President announced a 10% baseline on all US imports and a 20% rate for goods from the European Union, with a steeper 25% tariff on imported cars set to take effect immediately.' It is feared that the new levies could fuel inflation and disrupt global supply chains and lead to trade wars. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged trading partners against taking retaliatory steps against the new set of tariffs. 'As long as you don't retaliate this is the high end of the number,' Bessent told Bloomberg Television. President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen posted on X that the universal tariffs announced by the U.S. are a major blow to businesses and consumers worldwide. 'Europe is prepared to respond. We'll always protect our interests and values. We're also ready to engage,' she wrote. The British market's loss was somewhat less pronounced compared to other major European markets, as UK imports face a 10% tariff, half the 20% levy imposed on the European Union. British Prime Minister Starmer has stated that the UK will respond with 'cool and calm heads'. The pan European Stoxx 600 tumbled 2.57%, the U.K.'s FTSE 100 closed down 1.55%, Germany's DAX fell 3.01% and France's CAC 40 lost 3.31%. Switzerland's SMI dropped 2.45%. Among other markets in Europe, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Russia, Spain and Sweden lost 1 to 4%. Turkiye ended modestly lower, while Portugal bucked the trend and edged up marginally. As selling was broadbased, stocks from across various sectors recorded steep losses. Banks, mining, energy, retailers and airlines stocks declined sharply. Pharmaceuticals stocks found some support as the U.S. President did not announce any specific reciprocal tariffs targeting the pharma sector. Standard Chartered plunged more than 12%. HSBC Holdings and Barclays Group both closed nearly 9% down. Lloyds Banking Group and Natwest also declined sharply. Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Societe Generale and BNP Paribas tumbled as well. Glencore, BP, Antofagasta, Anglo American Plc, Shell, Schroders, Weir Holdings, Adidas, Puma, Siemens, Infineon, Sartorius, Daimler Truck Holding, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Porsche, Airbus, SAP, BMW and MTU Aero Engines ended sharply lower. STMicroElectronics, Stellantis, Essilor, Kerring, LVMH, Legrand, Saint Gobain, TotalEnergies and Renault too declined sharply. Danone, Orange, Engie, Thales, Carrefour, Vonovia, E.ON, Rheinmetall, Fresenius Medical Care, Severn Trent, United Utilities, National Grid, SSE, Unite Group, Tesco, BT, BAE Systems and Persimmon were among the stocks that bucked the trend and closed notably higher. Eurozone producer price inflation accelerated notably in February on surging energy prices, Eurostat reported Thursday. Producer prices logged an annual growth of 3% in February, following January's 1.7% increase. Eurozone March final HCOB Composite Output Index came in with a score of 50.9, up from February's 50.2 reading. Data from S&P Global said the HCOB Germany Composite PMI for March was revised higher to 51.3 from a preliminary of 50.9 and compared to 50.4 in February. The reading marked the strongest expansion in the private sector in ten months. The manufacturing PMI came in with a score of 48.3, compared to 46.5 in February, while the service sector PMI moderated slightly to 50.9 in March from 51.1 a month earlier. Data from S&P Global said the HCOB France Composite PMI for March 2025 was revised slightly up to 48, from the flash estimate of 47, and above February's 13-month low of 45.1. France's private sector saw its seventh consecutive month of contraction, although the downturn was just modest and the mildest since October 2024. Manufacturing activity improved with the PMI score coming in at 48.5, up from 45.8 in February, while services PMI improved to 47.9 from 45.3. Data from S&P Global said the UK Composite PMI registered 51.5 in March, revised down from the preliminary estimate of 52.0. However, the reading was still above February's 50.5. The S&P Global UK Services PMI was revised lower to 52.5 in March from a preliminary score of 53.2. But, the score till marked the highest reading since August 2024. Copyright(c) 2025 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX 2025 AFX News Washington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Capital Family & Divorce Law Group is proud to announce that its principal attorney, Tamar (Tammy) Begun, has been awarded with the recognition of Super Lawyers, Top 5% in Maryland Family Law 2024. This prestigious recognition certifies Begun's commitment to superiority and ethical standards, further cementing her position as a leader in the community. Capital Family & Divorce Law Group Celebrates Tammy Begun's Super Lawyers Top 5% Recognition in Maryland Family Law 2024 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/247333_3b3ca155246768f1_002full.jpg Super Lawyers honors top attorneys nationwide across a range of practice areas and firm sizes through a patented process of independent research and peer evaluation. Their patented selection process is peer influenced, and research driven, selecting the top-rated attorneys to the Super Lawyers lists each year. Earning the title of Super Lawyers Top 5% in Maryland Family Law, 2024 is a huge testament that reflects Tammy Begun's exceptional expertise, commitment, and impact in the field of family law. "I am absolutely honored to be given this recognition.", Tammy Begun stated, "My passion is assisting families as they navigate complicated legal matters with empathy and good strategic counsel, and this recognition helps to further my dedication to providing the highest quality of representation." Capital Family & Divorce Law Group of Price Benowitz LLP., also known as Maryland Divorce Lawyers, has a rich history of being a trusted advocate for individuals and families facing family law challenges. Their team of fierce advocates takes pride in having represented over one thousand clients facing family law issues ranging from divorce and child custody to marital agreements, domestic violence, and more. Super Lawyers Top 5% recognition is more than an award acknowledging its principal attorney - it is an affirmation of the firm's efforts to drive results and meaningful change for clients. "Awards like this encourage us to keep working hard for outstanding legal work and integrity in the system. My example-of service, integrity, and justice-means we deliver personalized, results-driven service. Those guiding principles shape our practice and guide every case we accept. To us, the law isn't just a court process; it's people. We make sure each client feels heard, valued, and represented with the highest degree of care and professionalism," continues Tammy Begun of Capital Family & Divorce Law Group. Visit Tammy Begun's profile on Super Lawyers to learn more about what the Top 5% of Family Law attorneys in Maryland means for the firm. For more information on the firm, its attorneys, and services, visit the website. About Tamar (Tammy) Begun Specializing in family law, adoption, and child custody cases, Tammy Begun is known for her passionate approach to helping clients navigate challenging family situations. With over 30 years of experience practicing law, Begun, a family law attorney, is based in Rockville, Maryland. She is also certified as a mediator for child custody and marital property matters. Tammy Begun is a proud Partner and Head of the Family Law Division at Capital Family & Divorce Law Group of Price Benowitz LLP. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247333 SOURCE: Plentisoft Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Starcore International Mines Ltd. (TSX: SAM) ("Starcore" or the "Company") is pleased to announce results of the Induced Polarisation and Resistivity and ground Magnetic survey (the Geophysical survey) carried out on its Kimoukro gold project in the central Ivory Coast, some 30 km south of the country's capital, Yamoussoukro. SAGAX Afrique sarlu ("Sagax"), under supervision of Mr. Jean David, completed the IP and ground mag program in early October, 2024; the survey covered an area of 5,3 km2 measuring 55 line-kilometers over 34 lines, 100 m apart and oriented N105. An additional 6 lines were surveyed for Mag but not for IP due to their short extension. The geophysical survey was designed to identify IP and resistivity anomalies and highlight structural features to help the interpretation. Multiple moderate-to-strong chargeability anomalies were detected by the Induced Polarization survey from which high priority drill targets will be generated, considering different degrees of resistivity, structural interpretation and geology information. The final report and recommendation were received recently from Sagax. Ground Magnetic Survey The ground magnetic survey was carried out over the same lines of IP survey; acquisition conditions were good and no significant noise results in the data. The magnetic survey highlights three main different domains. The hi-magnetic intensity recorded in the northeast part of the grid corresponds to a granite-tonalite intrusion and immediate surrounding; the shape of the intrusion is irregular; diffuse demagnetisation in this area is likely the effect of cataclastic deformation and leaching. The central part of the grid is interpreted as a strong deformation zone; according to field data, the zone characterises for highly sheared metasediments and a network of felsic dykes, structurally controlled with NNW prevailing trend, well depicted by the vertical derivative map. The south-west portion of the grid marks a lithology change, likely to more basaltic-andesitic rocks, or to the alteration halo of the southwestern granitic intrusion. The pattern of the magnetic lineaments shows different characteristics in the different domains, suggesting local structural complexity; dyke swarms are highlighted by higher magnetic intensity. An apparent circular feature occurs in the central part of the permit and could potentially be interpreted as an intrusion. Although no evidence is yet available, this is a possible explanation for the circular feature, as the area underwent intrusive episodes as demonstrated by the two granitoid intrusions, only 3 km apart, and a set of felsic dykes, which characterise the Kimoukro project. Three major structural trends are depicted by magnetic anomalies: one prominent NE striking lineament is evident in the central part of the grid, and it could be related to a dyke and a fault zone; the NW to N trending lineaments are consistent with remote-sensing structural interpretation, and same trend of structures is confirmed in the few outcrops. They are interpreted as shear zones, while E-W to NE smaller lineaments are higher order structures on this system. Shear quartz-veins are at least locally, parallel to the main shear direction, or within foliation planes. In the NE of the survey grid, at the contact zone and inside the granite bodies, the veins trend mostly N130 (NW-SE) and there are no straight corresponding magnetic signals. Pole-Dipole survey The pole-dipole survey allowed us to represent resistivity and chargeability along 2D profiles; pseudo-3D inversion technique was used to populate 3D grids and image the spatial distribution of the electric parameters. The quality of the survey was good and with good penetration, and allowed for imaging over 200 m depth with good resolution. In the resistivity map, a persistent resistivity corridor is evident in the central part of the grid, striking NW to NNW; this zone is also surrounded by parallel conductive layers. This signature is interpretated as a structural corridor, likely a wide shear zone, whose flanks are coincident with hydrothermal alteration and host mineralised structures. The NE side of the grid corresponding to the granite-tonalite intrusive and its nearby surroundings, has moderately high resistivity values from surface; in contrast, metasediments and basaltic rocks in the area, are usually conductive down to some 50 m depth. Linear, consistent high resistivity values are tentatively correlated to strong silica alteration, hence promising for veining. The trend of most veins inferred in the field is consistent with N to NNW and NW IP axes. The chargeability (IP) map shows high chargeable values in the northern side of the grid, noticeably the north-east side, where granite crops out, and artisanal miner's activity is intense. The high chargeability values continue westwards, with axes of the peak anomalies, NE and N trending. A high-chargeable zone is present at the eastern edge of the permit and is open to S-SE, and corresponds to perspective zone with artisanal mineworks. A prominent N to NNW oriented high chargeability zone marks the central part of the grid, within sheared metasediments; this insulated anomaly is on the west flank of the structural corridor and it may mark sulphide zone, hence it is perspective for exploration. Both the chargeable and resistive anomalies show good continuity and are open at depth. The distribution and orientation of the chargeable zones fit with a structural model with NNW trending structural corridor, with apparent sinistral shear sense. Figure 1 shows Magnetic, IP and Resistivity maps according to the Sagax's modelling. In similar Birimian terrains, the chargeable anomalies characterized by medium to high amplitude resistivity without direct magnetic association, commonly indicate vein-hosted mineralisation, or they mark the edge of the high magnetic domain. Anomalies characterized by a moderate to high chargeability response and a decrease in resistivity, generally correspond to mineralization of the deformation zones. Thirteen main chargeability lineaments have been highlighted in the Sagax; they often correspond with resistivity axes, suggesting mineralisation in the form of veins and associated silicification. The Sagax's proposed exploration targets are at highest IP anomalies and at structural intersection, with priority for the stronger IP signature; chargeability values over the suggested targets range from 5.6 to 10 mV/V. ArsTerra's independent modelling Independent processing and interpretation were also completed by Dr. Paolo Costantini, principal geophysicist at ArsTerra Exploration GmbH, who originally suggested the configuration for data acquisition. Modelling was performed from raw data after data check, and application of corrections, filters and smoothening, and the final model derived from inversion of corrected polarization and resistivity profiles. The derived maps and slices of the 3D models (Figure 3) differ in several details from previous modelling; however, the main lineaments, trend of structural corridors, and moderate to high polarization, are in reasonable agreement and in good part, the two models overlap. The ArsTerra's modelling also provides classifications by combining electric and magnetic properties, translated to rock groups or classes, having specific compaction index, and metal factor indicators. In addition, the interpretation is corroborated by airborne radiometric dataset and supported by geology data including magnetic susceptivity measurements on 31 rock samples, progress in geology and assay. The structural interpretation from both magnetic and IP survey highlights northerly trending structural shear, and several NW, NE, and WNW-oriented structures which in part are coincident with inferred trace of mineralised veins. ArsTerra highlights six (6) muti-linear targets for further exploration; the targets are traced over the axes of IP anomaly; priority is based on persistence of the signal and rock classification by metal factor, as well as magnetic response. Besides the differences in details, related to the different processing techniques, the data quality was confirmed to be very good; the two independent modelling and interpretation by Sagax's and ArsTerra's seasoned and renowned specialists ended with consistent conclusions in the identification of IP anomalies and structural interpretation, as well as generation of targets for exploration. The latter is obvious at the NE intrusive contact zone and its alteration halo; high IP anomaly stretches NE-SW for 2 km and 400 m width, and is open at both extremities. The eastern limit of the permit is over a linear high chargeable corridor some 150 m wide, 1800 m long, starting from south of the granite-tonalite intrusion. The high IP anomaly is open to the south; exploration interest is supported by evidences of mineralised veins and artisanal prospecting and mineworks. The IP anomaly in the central part of the survey grid spans 750 x 600 m; this anomaly feature looks associated to a NNW-trending large structural feature (tentatively, a sinistral shear zone) which is potentially mineralised and hence deserves further investigation. The SW side of the permit has a different magnetic and electric signature, with higher magnetic amplitude than the central part, but less prominent IP anomalies. Targets are suggested at structural intersections with IP crest values; in addition, exploration follow-up will consider intrusive contacts and gold occurrences, at little distance from the SW end of the geophysical survey. By compiling the information available, priority zones have been narrowed to drill target areas, to be used to refine a drilling program, as shown in figure 5. Qualified Person The scientific and technical disclosure in this news release has been supervised and approved by Dr. Riccardo Aque, Ph.D. Eurogeol., a Qualified Person as that term is defined in NI 43-101. He is independent of the Company. Note: Figures 1 - 5 as referenced in this news release can be viewed in the version of this news release filed on SEDAR+ and on our website. About Starcore Starcore International Mines is engaged in precious metals production with focus and experience in Mexico. While this base of producing assets has been complemented by exploration and development projects throughout North America, Starcore has expanded its reach internationally with the project in Cote d'Ivoire. The Company is a leader in Corporate Social Responsibility and advocates value driven decisions that will increase long term shareholder value. You can find more information on the investor friendly website here: www.starcore.com. ON BEHALF OF STARCORE INTERNATIONAL MINES LTD. (Signed) "Robert Eadie" Robert Eadie, President & Chief Executive Officer The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed nor does it accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. This news release contains "forward-looking" statements and information ("forward-looking statements"). All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included herein, including, without limitation, management's expectations and the potential of the Company's projects, are forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of Company management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to Company's management and reflect the beliefs, opinions, and projections on the date the statements are made. Forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties and accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements or beliefs, opinions, projections or other factors, except as required by law. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247317 SOURCE: Starcore International Mines Ltd. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company"), a leading consolidator of emerging food brands is pleased to announce that it has signed a multi-year agreement with TOAST Inc., ("TOAST") (NYSE: TOST), the digital technology platform built for hospitality offering a comprehensive platform of software as a service (SaaS) products and financial technology solutions that give restaurants everything they need to run their business across point of sale, payments, operations, digital ordering and delivery, marketing and loyalty, and team management. Happy Belly To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6625/247328_92962bcba4a17a98_001full.jpg "To help support the Company's expansion plans, Happy Belly sought a modern cloud-based technology partner that could be easily implanted across our multi brand portfolio," said Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly. "To ensure we are well-positioned to grow for years to come, we need to increase operational efficiency. From the start, the TOAST team showed their excitement for our vision and demonstrated they could help us achieve it. The conversion of our brands over to TOAST has already started and we look to complete the transition in Q2, 2025." "We began our platform strategy with a real estate partnership with Cadillac Fairview on November 26, 2024-one of North America's leading mixed-use property owners, operators, and developers in Canada. This was followed by a supply-chain agreement with Sysco on January 17, 2025, the global leader in food distribution for restaurants. Today, we are further enhancing our technology platform with a multi-year agreement with TOAST, which will provide Happy Belly with best-in-class Point-of-Sale and analytical solutions across our portfolio of nine quick-serve restaurant (QSR) brands." "Converting ability and opportunity to tangible results will continue to be a key driver of sustained growth for Happy Belly. Having master service agreements in key operational areas will allow us to realize synergies between our brands and drive standardization in back-office efficiencies across our platforms. This will drive incremental value for our franchisees while delivering bottom line results for our shareholders." "Our asset-light franchise model enables Happy Belly to continue accelerating growth across all our brands. With a strong foundation, strategic leadership, and a dedicated franchise support system, we are well-positioned to drive sustained success in the Canadian QSR market. This is another step forward in our mission to become a predictable and disciplined growth company, Canada's leading restaurant consolidator." "We are experiencing significant interest from both franchisees and landlords nationwide across our brand portfolio. We look forward to continuing to execute on our franchising model as we accelerate our growth organically and inorganically through accretive M&A. Happy Belly now has hundreds of contractually committed retail franchise locations across our emerging brands-whether in development, under construction, or already operating. We are working to expand this pipeline throughout 2025 and 2026, continually selecting the right franchise partners and securing optimal real estate to achieve our brands' development goals." "At TOAST, we're thrilled to support Happy Belly's rapid expansion," said Ana Munoz, GM of International at TOAST. "As they scale their portfolio of quick-serve restaurant brands, having a unified technology platform will be critical in driving operational efficiency, enhancing guest experiences, and empowering franchisees with real-time insights. We look forward to being a key technology partner in their continued success." We are just getting started. Franchising For franchising inquiries please see www.happybellyfg.com/franchise-with-us/ or contact us at hello@happybellyfg.com. About Happy Belly Food Group Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company") is a leading consolidator of emerging food brands. Sean Black Chief Executive Officer Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur and include the future performance of Happy Belly and her subsidiaries. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the business plans for Happy Belly described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on www.sedarplus.ca. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247328 SOURCE: Happy Belly Food Group Inc. flatex was once again named Broker of the Year in the main category "Best Online Broker" and "Best ETF Fund Broker" in the 2025 "Broker Election" For the first time, flatex secured first place in the "Best Crypto Broker" category, following the launch of its Crypto offering only in December 2024 The awards are based on the votes of over 87,000 retail investors The results of the 2025 "Broker Election" published on Wednesday named flatex "Broker of the Year" in three categories. In the categories "Best Online Broker" and "Best ETF Fund Broker", which are traditionally the most important ones for flatex, a clear majority of participating retail investors once again opted for flatex's price, product and service offering. flatex consistently secures top positions in these categories, having earned five first-place and one second-place ranking over the past three years. Following the launch of its Crypto offering in December 2024, flatex quickly secured the top spot in investor ratings, thanks to its emphasis on low total costs and high transparency. flatex's "Broker Election" rankings 2022 2023 2024 2025 Best Online Broker 1 1 2 1 Best ETF Fund Broker 1 1 1 1 Best Crypto Broker 1 Tobias Spreiter, responsible for Product Development at flatex, said: "We take great pride in these three prestigious awards and particularly in the consistency with which flatex has placed itself at the top of the German online brokerage landscape in terms of customer perception. The fact that flatex is already considered as the best Crypto offering on the market after just a few months demonstrates our success in attracting crypto-savvy investors through our commitment to lowest total costs, high transparency, and reliability." About the 2025 "Broker Election" From March 1 to 31, 2025, over 87,000 traders and retail investors voted for their favorite broker across 6 categories: Online Broker, ETF Fund Broker, Daytrade Broker, CFD Broker, Forex Broker and Crypto Broker. The detailed results of the 2025 "Broker Election" can be found on brokerwahl.de. flatexDEGIRO AG (www.flatexdegiro.com, ISIN: DE000FTG1111, Ticker: FTK.GR) flatexDEGIRO AG is one of the leading and fastest growing online brokers in Europe and offers its services in 16 countries. The company most recently held assets of around 70 billion in more than 3 million customer accounts and processed an average of more than 60 million securities transactions per year for its customers in recent years. Via three brokerage platforms DEGIRO, flatex and ViTrade flatexDEGIRO offers access to trading on around 50 stock exchanges in Europe, North America and the Asia-Pacific region as well as over-the-counter direct trading. Customers are active and well-informed traders who trade without investment advice. With ViTrade, flatexDEGIRO also serves particularly active traders. Brokerage and the banking business associated with securities trading are handled by flatexDEGIRO Bank AG, a subsidiary with a full banking license. flatexDEGIRO has proprietary technology with very high availability along the entire value chain and thus sets standards in platform and service quality. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250404813738/en/ Contacts: Contact for the media: Achim Schreck Phone +49 (0) 69 450001 1700 Head of IR Corporate Communications achim.schreck@flatexdegiro.com Laura Hecker Phone +49 (0) 160 3064 404 Director Investor Relations laura.hecker@flatexdegiro.com Denver, Colorado--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Bighorn Web Solutions, a leading enterprise-grade eCommerce agency specializing in conversion rate optimization, platform migrations, ERP integration development, custom application development, and more, has been named one of the Top 3 Best Design & Development Agencies to Hire in 2025 by DesignRush. For this list, DesignRush selected leading firms that combine creativity and technical expertise to create exceptional digital experiences. Bighorn Web Solutions LLC has been named one of the Top 3 Best Design & Development Agencies to hire in 2025 by DesignRush | Source: Bighorn Web Solutions To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10587/245545_961b3e6c2432b8f5_001full.jpg Bighorn Web Solutions has a proven track record in improving user experience and site performance and driving revenue growth for eCommerce businesses. The agency is known for its strategic approach to problem-solving, responsive client service, and ability to execute development projects within time and budget. Its in-house team, specializing exclusively in eCommerce, delivers each project with an in-depth understanding of industry challenges and trends. It also provides ongoing support and strategic consulting to help brands refine and optimize their digital presence beyond the initial project launch. "Being recognized among the Top 3 Best Design & Development Agencies to Hire in 2025 reinforces Bighorn Web Solutions' commitment to innovation, client success, and delivering cutting-edge eCommerce solutions. We are continuing to expand our team of experts while investing in emerging eCommerce technologies and strengthening partnerships with leading platforms. Additionally, Bighorn Web Solutions is focusing on enhancing its AI-driven personalization services, performance optimization techniques, and headless commerce solutions to help brands future-proof their eCommerce operations. This recognition by DesignRush serves as both a validation of past success and a catalyst for continued growth, further solidifying Bighorn Web Solutions as a trusted leader in the eCommerce development space," said Caleb Bradley, CEO of Bighorn Web Solutions. To learn more about improving site speed, checkout optimization, inventory management, and integrations with third-party systems, visit https://bighornwebsolutions.com/. About Bighorn Web Solutions: Bighorn Web Solutions is a U.S.-based enterprise-grade e-commerce agency rooted in the Rocky Mountain region, comprised of senior-level engineers who are specialists, not generalists. With deep expertise in its respective niches, the agency understands the importance of staying ahead in an ever-evolving digital landscape. About DesignRush: DesignRush.com is a B2B marketplace and media platform connecting businesses with agencies through expert reviews and agency ranking lists, awards, knowledge resources, and personalized agency recommendations for vetted projects. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/245545 SOURCE: DesignRush Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Vext Science, Inc. (CSE: VEXT) (OTCQX: VEXTF) ("Vext" or the "Company"), a U.S.-based cannabis operator with vertically integrated operations in Arizona and Ohio, today announced that Vapen Kentucky, LLC ("Vapen Kentucky"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Vext, together with its local partner, has entered into a definitive agreement (the "Sale Agreement") to sell a medical cannabis processing license in the state of Kentucky for gross proceeds to the Company of US$880,000 (the "Transaction"). "This transaction underscores our disciplined approach to capital allocation and strategic focus on maximising returns in our core markets," said Eric Offenberger, CEO of Vext. "By divesting the processing license in Kentucky, we are deepening our focus on our core operations in Arizona and Ohio, where we see the most compelling opportunities to drive long-term value. The proceeds of the sale strengthens our balance sheet and will support the build out of our Ohio retail footprint as we continue to prioritize profitability and cash flow growth across our vertically-integrated operations." On March 16, 2025, Vext acquired the remaining 50% membership interest in Vapen Kentucky from its joint venture partner, utilizing non-cash consideration. Upon closing of the Transaction, Vapen Kentucky's operations will be restructured to focus exclusively on hemp-related business opportunities. Terms of the Transaction Vapen Kentucky will receive US$880,000 in cash as consideration for the sale of the medical cannabis processing license, which amount is payable at closing of the Transaction. Proceeds from the Transaction are expected to be used for (i) the repayment of a portion of Vext's currently outstanding credit facilities, (ii) build out of the Company's Ohio retail footprint and (iii) general corporate purposes. The Transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval by the state of Kentucky. Vext expects the Transaction to close during the second quarter of 2025. For more details, visit Vext's investor website or contact the IR team at investors@vextscience.com. About Vext Science, Inc. Vext Science, Inc. is a U.S.-based cannabis operator with vertical operations in Arizona and Ohio. Vext's expertise spans from cultivation through to retail operations in its key markets. Based out of Arizona, Vext owns and operates state-of-the-art cultivation facilities, fully built-out manufacturing facilities as well as dispensaries in both Arizona and Ohio. The Company manufactures Vapen, one of the leading THC concentrates, edibles, and distillate cartridge brands in Arizona. Its selection of award-winning products are created with Vext's in-house, high-quality flower and distributed across Arizona and Ohio. Vext's leadership team brings a proven track record of building and operating profitable multi-state operations. The Company's primary focus is to continue growing in its core states of Arizona and Ohio, bringing together cutting-edge science, manufacturing, and marketing to provide a reliable and valuable customer experience while generating shareholder value. Vext Science, Inc. is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol VEXT and trades on the OTCQX market under the symbol VEXTF. Learn more at www.vextscience.com and connect with Vext on Twitter/X and LinkedIn. For more details on the Vapen brand: Vapen website: VapenBrands.com Instagram: @vapen Facebook: @vapenbrands Forward Looking Statements Statements in this news release that are forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed here and elsewhere in Vext's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. When used in this news release, words such as "will, could, plan, estimate, expect, intend, may, potential, believe, should," and similar expressions, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements related to the Transaction, including the receipt of regulatory approvals, the anticipated closing date and use of proceeds, and other statements regarding future developments and the business and operations of Vext, including the transition of Vapen Kentucky to focus on hemp opportunities and the Company's anticipated results from operations, all of which are subject to the risk factors contained in Vext's continuous disclosure filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Although Vext has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, there can be other factors that cause results, performance or achievements not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, including, but not limited to: dependence on obtaining regulatory approvals; being engaged in activities currently considered illegal under U.S. Federal laws; change in laws; reliance on management; requirements for additional financing; competition; hindered market growth and state adoption due to inconsistent public opinion and perception of the medical-use and adult-use marijuana industry; and regulatory or political change. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate or that management's expectations or estimates of future developments, circumstances or results will materialize. Because of these risks and uncertainties, the results or events predicted in these forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. Vext disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise such information, except as required by applicable law, and Vext does not assume any liability for disclosure relating to any other company mentioned herein. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release. SOURCE: Vext Science, Inc. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247325 SOURCE: VEXT Science, Inc. United States President Donald Trump expressed his support of proxy voting for new parents, marking a rare moment where his stance is at odds with other GOP leaders, including Speaker Mike Johnson. The Republican's stance was made public when Trump talked with reporters who were flying with him to Florida aboard Air Force One. He said, "You're having a baby, you should be able to call in and vote. I'm in favor of that." Donald Trump's Support of Proxy Voting for New Parents Trump's endorsement of the bipartisan effort came after he talked with Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, who has been aggressively pushing for a resolution. It would allow lawmakers to vote remotely for up to 12 weeks following the birth of a child. Under existing legislation, lawmakers do not have access to any sort of parental leave in order to vote. Luna has been spearheading the charge to approve proxy voting for new parents, initially for new mothers but now for everyone, according to the New York Times. Read more: Proxy Voting for New Parents Becomes Point of Contention Between Republicans Luna took advantage of a maneuver known as a discharge petition, which is a demand that was signed by 218 members of the House, to force consideration of the bipartisan measure that aims to change the chamber's rules. Johnson tried, unsuccessfully, to block the resolution from reaching the House floor earlier this week. He then later canceled votes for the remainder of the week, which prolonged a battle that it was not clear he could win. Mike Johnson's Opposition Despite Trump initially sharing his support of Luna's proxy voting for the new parents bill, he said he would still defer to Johnson on the operations of the House. He added that he had no idea why the matter was so controversial, the Associated Press reported. Luna's push for the proposal was echoed by Democratic Rep. Brittany Petterson and has received the support of the majority of the House. Johnson's reluctance to support the bill is because, he claims, it is an affront to the Constitution. The speaker added that allowing new parents to vote by proxy would "open a dangerous Pandora's box for the institution." He said that he believes the process violates more than two centuries of tradition and institution. This is not the first time that proxy voting was talked about, as it was allowed in the 117th Congress during the COVID-19 pandemic following the support of a Democratic majority. On the other hand, Republicans have long been opposed to the process, as per Forbes. London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - (The Net-Zero Circle) - Following the remarkable success of the inaugural edition, The Net-Zero Circle by IN-VR, in official partnership with Chile's Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Mining, and InvestChile, is proud to announce the 2nd Chile Energy Transition Summit. The Summit will be held from 27-28 August 2025 in Santiago, Chile, and will once again serve as a premier platform for accelerating investment, innovation, and strategic collaboration across the clean energy, critical minerals, and industrial decarbonisation sectors. The 2025 edition is designed as an exclusive, high-impact gathering, welcoming only the top 150-200 decision-makers in the energy sector. This carefully limited capacity ensures a premium networking environment-bringing together government officials, global energy leaders, critical mineral experts, and institutional investors to forge strategic partnerships and unlock transformative opportunities. With a curated agenda focused on Chile's most forward-looking industries-clean energy, hydrogen, lithium, and large-scale decarbonisation-the Summit provides a platform where real deals are initiated and long-term collaborations are born. Event Highlights Ministerial Keynotes outlining Chile's national strategies on decarbonisation, energy resilience, and the future of mining and critical minerals. Focused sessions on utility-scale storage, green hydrogen, grid infrastructure, and clean energy investments. Critical Minerals in Focus : Explore Chile's leadership in lithium, copper, and rare earth development as the world races to secure supply chains. Exclusive case studies , including Oasis de Atacama , one of Latin America's most ambitious solar-plus-storage megaprojects. Curated 1:1 B2B and B2G meetings connecting project developers, investors, government stakeholders, and OEMs. Participation from leading international institutions, energy technology providers, and fund managers scaling activity in Chile and Latin America. About the Organisers IN-VR is a leading global consultancy specialised in energy, mining, and investment promotion. With a proven track record of connecting governments with industry and investors, IN-VR drives strategic growth across emerging markets through high-impact events, advisory, and thought leadership. The Ministry of Energy of Chile is responsible for formulating national policies to ensure sustainable, secure, and inclusive energy development. The Ministry of Mining of Chile oversees the country's strategic mineral resources and supports responsible mining development to advance the country's economic and environmental objectives. InvestChile is the government's official investment promotion agency, working to attract foreign investment in strategic sectors such as clean energy and mining. Quotes from Key Figures "Our collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Mining, and InvestChile reflects our commitment to fostering global partnerships and driving sustainable growth in the energy transition sector. We look forward to welcoming participants to Santiago," stated Chryssa Tsouraki, CEO of IN-VR. "After the success of the first edition, we are confident that this year's summit will be even more impactful, offering abundant opportunities to explore and drive the future of clean energy and critical minerals in Chile, which are key to the global energy transition," said Salvatore Di Giovanni Vergara, CEO of InvestChile. Join Us: InvestChile, The Ministry of Energy, The Ministry of Mining, and The Net-Zero Circle by IN-VR invite all stakeholders in the energy transition, clean energy, and critical minerals sectors to participate in this landmark event. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of the conversations shaping the future of energy in Chile and beyond. For further information, please visit: https://www.netzerocircle.org/event/chile-energy-transition END OF PRESS RELEASE. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247230 SOURCE: IN-VR Limited Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - ESGold Corp. (CSE: ESAU) (OTCQB: ESAUF) (FSE: Z7D) ("ESGold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the successful completion of a non-brokered private placement (the "Offering"), which was conditionally reserved with the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") and opened and completed concurrently. The Offering consisted of 15,926,933 units (the "Units") at a price of US$0.15 (C$0.215) per Unit, for gross proceeds of US$2,389,040 (C$3,424,291). A Pivotal Step Toward Production The proceeds from this financing will be directed toward hiring contractors and engineering teams to commence construction of the mill circuit at the Company's fully permitted Montauban Project in Quebec. This represents a major milestone, and the final phase of infrastructure development required to bring the project into production. New York-based hedge funds and family offices participated for the majority of the capital raised, demonstrating meaningful institutional interest and support for ESGold's clean production model and exploration potential. "This financing is a very unique capital raise-it signals ESGold's ability to begin assembly of the gold and silver processing circuit at Montauban," said Brad Kitchen, President of ESGold. "With construction now imminent, we are entering the final stages before production. We extend our sincere gratitude to our shareholders and new investors-particularly the New York-based hedge funds and family offices that led the round-for their tremendous confidence in our vision. Together, we are positioning ESGold to become Canada's next mining company." Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional Common Share at a price of US$0.21 (C$0.30) for a period of 24 months from the date of closing. In connection with the financing, the company will pay a cash finder's fee of C$165,628 and issue 770,361 finders' warrants. The finders' warrants will be exercisable into common shares for a period of 24 months at an exercise price of C$0.30 cents per common share. Use of Proceeds Net proceeds will be allocated to: Commencement of mill circuit construction and related engineering work; Final project mobilization for the Montauban Gold-Silver Project; and General working capital requirements. All securities issued in connection with the offering are subject to a restricted hold period of four months and one day from the date of closing of the offering under applicable securities legislation. The Offering is subject to CSE approval, and the Company anticipates that it will close in five (5) business days on April 11, 2025. The subscribers in the offering included insider participation from Brad Kitchen (president and director), Paul Mastantuono (chief executive officer and director) and Anthony Giuliano (chief financial officer). The insiders subscribed for an aggregate of 1,250,000 units. The issuance of Units to the insiders constitutes a related party transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 -- Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions. The company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements, pursuant to subsections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, for the insider participation in the offering, as the value of the units subscribed for does not represent more than 25 per cent of the company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. A Platform for Growth With over 60% of Montauban's infrastructure already in place and the project fully permitted, this financing positions the Company to move decisively into production. In parallel, the Company continues to advance its exploration initiatives, including the ongoing Ambient Noise Tomography (ANT) survey, which aims to define the full scale and depth of the deposit for the first time in its 110-year history. About ESGold Corp. ESGold Corp. (CSE: ESAU) (OTCQB: ESAUF) (FSE: Z7D) is a fully permitted, pre-production resource company at the forefront of clean mining and exploration innovation. With proven expertise in Quebec, the Company is advancing its projects toward production and feasibility while delivering long-term value through sustainable resource recovery and exploration. ESGold's flagship Montauban property, located 80 kilometers west of Quebec City, serves as a model for responsible mining practices, combining near-term production with district-scale discovery potential. For more information, please contact ESGold Corp. at +1-888-370-1059 or visit esgold.com for additional resources, including a French version of this press release, past news releases, a 3D model of the Montauban processing plant, media interviews, and opinion-editorial pieces. Stay connected by following us on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and joining our Telegram channel. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements are based on assumptions and expectations that involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially. Forward-looking information includes statements regarding the expected use of proceeds, the development and construction timelines of the Montauban Project, future production, and anticipated project milestones. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. All forward-looking information contained in this release is qualified by these cautionary statements. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247330 SOURCE: ESGold Corp. Ottawa, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Mayo Lake Minerals Inc. (CSE: MLKM) ('Mayo Lake' or the 'Company') is pleased to report the closing of the first leg of its previously announced (March 6) private placement consisting of both common share units (CS Units) and flow-through Units (FT Units). The placement remains open and is intended to raise a total of $900,000. Terms Each CS Unit was priced at $0.05 and consists of one common share (a "Common Share") and one common share purchase warrant ("CS Warrant"). Each CS Warrant is exercisable into one Common Share at a price of $0.07 per Common Share for a period of 48 months from the closing date. A total of 600,000 CS Units were issued for a total of $30,000 to be used for administrative purposes. Each FT Unit is priced at $0.05 per FT Unit and consists of one flow-through share in the capital of the Company (a "FT Share") and one purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable into one Common Share at a price of $0.07 for a period of 36 months from the closing date. Each FT Share will be issued as a "flow-through share" within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada)). A total of 1,600,000 FT Units were issued for a total of $80,000.00 to be used for exploration expenditures qualifying as "CEE" under the Income Tax Act. Mayo has engaged PhotoSat of Vancouver, B.C., to carry out satellite-based alteration surveys on its Trail-Minto and Anderson-Davidson properties as a precursor to its ground-based summer programs. The summer exploration plans will focus on advancing all properties to the point where they become attractive joint venture opportunities in an area where numerous projects are currently being developed through the discovery, resource expansion, and feasibility stages. Anderson-Davidson Claim Group. This year's assessment work on Anderson-Davidson was filed on March 28th, 2025 consisting of alteration mapping provided by PhotoSat; the final interpretation is pending. Due dates were extended on a total of 434 claims, having an area of 88.5 sq. kms. Table 1. Due Dates for Anderson-Davison Claims Claims Area (Kms) Due Date 240 48.9 September 29, 2025 183 37.3 September 29, 2026 11 2.3 March 29, 2027 434 88.5 Mayo has delineated four drill-ready geochemical anomalies on its Anderson Gold Belt and one on its Davidson property. A short RC drill program was completed on its Owl-Anderson prospect within the Anderson Gold Belt that yielded up to 0.8g Au/t over 6m. It was concluded that this intersection came from the edge of a much broader and potentially high grade gold zone[1]. Please refer to mapping Figures #1 and #2 on the next page. Barrie[2] considered the gold mineralization at the Anderson-Owl prospect to be epithermal in nature and that it probably represented the upper part of a large epizonal system where epithermal and mesothermal veins plus sheeted veining may all be present. Rounded negative magnetic anomalies of variable sizes may well represent reduced intrusion bodies, some being secondary to a larger body. A granodiorite monzonite stock has been mapped at the head of Owl Creek. The presence of at least four fault and joint systems has been determined from linear trends apparent in the geochem results and linear breaks on analytical signal plots. Dr. Vern Rampton, CEO and President of Mayo stated "It is very apparent with our delineation of at least five drill-ready prospects and numerous other areas with high prospectivity for gold that the Anderson Gold Belt has the potential to become a significant-sized gold mining camp. The airborne magnetics, analytical signal and geochem results has defined faults that the veining follows. The magnetics also suggest that gold veining is driven by buried intrusions. I believe that gold mineralization is much more extensive than that discovered to date in the Anderson Gold Belt." Readers are cautioned that geophysical surveys and soil sampling are not definitive and are preliminary results only; therefore, they should not be considered a guarantee of potential economic mineralization. Mayo plans to conduct an airborne ZTEM (Z-Tipper Axis Electromagnetic) and soil sampling of the remaining potential gold prospects this summer, prior to a scout drilling program. Letter of Intent re Merger The Company and WestMountain Gold continue to discuss a revision of the of their original letter of intent signed in 2023 with the objective of reinitiating merger activities this spring. https://www.mayolakeminerals.com/uploads/1/4/1/8/141817088/mlm_pr_announces_letter_of_intent_to_merge_with_westmountain_gold_final_august_17_2023casino_corr.pdf About Mayo Lake Minerals Inc. Mayo is actively engaged in the exploration and development of four precious metal projects in the Tombstone Gold (Plutonic) Belt of the Tintina Gold Province. The properties cover 188 square kilometres in the Yukon's Mayo Mining District and lie within the traditional territory of the Na-Cho Nyak Dun First Nation. Mayo is presently focusing on its two flagship properties; the Carlin-Roop Silver Project lying within the Keno Hill Silver District and the promising Anderson-Davidson gold property. Two active mines; Victoria Gold's Eagle Gold Mine and Hecla Mining's Keno Silver mines are nearby. Readers can access property news and descriptions at https://www.mayolakeminerals.com/ Qualified Person. The technical and scientific information contained within this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Vern Rampton, P.Eng., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standard of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Dr. Rampton is also the President & CEO of Mayo Lake Minerals Inc. Figure. 1 Anderson-Davidson Gold Prospects To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5471/247337_01611b6a04faaa66_002full.jpg Figure 2 Details of the soil sampling geochemistry for four gold prospects within Anderson Gold Belt, Yukon To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5471/247337_01611b6a04faaa66_003full.jpg NOT TO BE DISTRIBUTED TO NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATED IN THE UNITED STATES Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information. This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements or information. The forward-looking statements and information are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by management of Mayo. Although management of Mayo believe that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements and information are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements and information since no assurance can be given that they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about the current expectations and plans of management of Mayo relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such statements and information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Since forward-looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature, they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. THERE IS NO ASSURANCE THAT THE PROPOSED MERGER WILL OCCUR OR THAT MAYO WILL BE ABLE TO RAISE THE NECESSARY CAPITAL TO PROCEED WITH THE PROPOSED MERGER. BOTH MAYO AND WMG HAVE LIMITED CAPITAL. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and no undertaking is given to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. [1] For greater details see press release dated December 12, 2011; May 29, 2012; September 28, 2017; May 26, 2022; October 25, 2022; December 16, 2022 and Figures 1 and 2. [2] Barrie, C.T. 2017. Technical Report on the Mineral Exploration and Mineral Potential of the Anderson-Davidson Claim Group, Mayo Mining District, Yukon Territory, Canada. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247337 SOURCE: Mayo Lake Minerals Inc. Leuven, BELGIUM - April 4, 2025 - 02:00 PM CET - Oxurion NV (Euronext Brussels: OXUR), a biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Leuven, today made the following announcement regarding the financial calendar: Due to administrative reasons, the annual accounts of the Company have not been finalized yet. Hence, the Company has decided to postpone its Annual Shareholders Meeting to Tuesday May 13, 2025. About Oxurion Oxurion (Euronext Brussels: OXUR) is engaged in developing next-generation standard of care ophthalmic therapies for the treatment of retinal disease. Oxurion is based in Leuven, Belgium. More information is available at www.oxurion.com. Important information about forward-looking statements Certain statements in this press release may be considered "forward-looking". Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, and, accordingly, entail and are influenced by various risks and uncertainties. The Company therefore cannot provide any assurance that such forward-looking statements will materialize and does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or any other reason. Additional information concerning risks and uncertainties affecting the business and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement is contained in the Company's Annual Report. This press release does not constitute an offer or invitation for the sale or purchase of securities or assets of Oxurion in any jurisdiction. No securities of Oxurion may be offered or sold within the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or in compliance with an exemption therefrom, and in accordance with any applicable U.S. state securities laws. For further information please contact: Oxurion NV Pascal Ghoson Chief Executive Officer Pascal.ghoson@oxurion.com ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: nJudaMlnaGnFynGfl5dqbWiWbJpllWKdbGqWm2dtYpfFa5pnnGlompycZnJhnWps - Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-90856-oxur-shareholders-meeting-en-20250404.pdf Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - C3 Metals Inc. (TSXV: CCCM) (OTCQB: CUAUF) ("C3 Metals" or the "Company") announces that pursuant to the Company's stock option plan approved by shareholders at its Annual General and Special meeting held on February 28, 2025, the Board of Directors has granted 3,380,000 stock options to directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company. A total of 925,000 options will vest immediately, while 2,455,000 options will vest over a period of 12 months, subject to regulatory acceptance. After vesting, each incentive stock option will allow the holder to purchase one common share in the Company at a price of CAD$0.70. The incentive stock options have a term of five years, expiring on April 4, 2030 or following the departure of the option-holder. Following this stock option grant, the Company will have a total of 6,260,750 stock options outstanding, representing approximately 6.27% of the outstanding common shares of the Company. For additional information, contact: ABOUT C3 METALS INC. C3 Metals Inc. is a mineral exploration company focused on creating substantive value for its shareholders through the discovery and development of large copper and gold deposits. The Company holds approximately 30,000 hectares located in the prolific high-grade Andahuaylas-Yauri Porphyry-Skarn belt of Southern Peru. Mineralization at Jasperoide is hosted in a similar geological setting to the nearby major mining operations at Las Bambas (MMG), Constancia (Hudbay) and Antapaccay (Glencore). At Jasperoide, the Company has identified over 15 skarn prospects and an outcropping porphyry system over two parallel 28km belts. The Company has published a maiden resource estimate on the first of these skarn targets, which contained Measured & Indicated Resources of 52Mt at 0.5% copper and 0.2 g/t gold. The Company is also actively exploring in Jamaica where it has identified 16 porphyry, 40 epithermal and multiple volcanic redbed copper prospects over a 30km strike extent. The Company holds a 100% interest in 17,855 hectares of exploration licenses, of which Freeport-McMoRan Exploration Corporation, a wholly-owned affiliate of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE: FCX), has the option on 13,020 hectares to earn up to a 75% interest by funding up to US$75 million of exploration and project related expenditures. The Company also holds a 50% interest in 9,870 hectares in a joint venture with Geophsyx Jamaica Ltd, the largest mineral tenure holder in the country. Barrick Gold Corp. announced on May 1, 2024 that it had entered into an earn-in agreement with Geophysx Jamaica Ltd. on approximately 400,000 hectares of exploration licenses, several of which surround C3 Metals' mineral concessions. Mining is currently the second largest industry in Jamaica, and historical mining dates back to the colonial eras of the 1500s (Spanish) and 1800s (British). Related Link: www.c3metals.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the exploration operations of the Company and the timing which could be affected by the current global COVID-19 pandemic. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to the Company. Although such statements are based on reasonable assumptions of the Company's management, there can be no assurance that any conclusions or forecasts will prove to be accurate. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks relating to changes in project parameters as plans continue to be redefined, risks relating to variations in grade or recovery rates, risks relating to changes in mineral prices and the worldwide demand for and supply of minerals, risks related to increased competition and current global financial conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic, access and supply risks, reliance on key personnel, operational risks, and regulatory risks, including risks relating to the acquisition of the necessary licenses and permits, financing, capitalization and liquidity risks. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247339 SOURCE: C3 Metals Inc. Strong global expansion, industry recognition, and team growth mark a standout year. International Citizens Insurance (ICI), a leading provider of international health, life, and travel insurance, announced another record-breaking year in 2024. The company experienced a 65% increase in global life insurance sales and more than 42% growth in its group global benefits business. International Citizens Insurance Logo - Global Health, Life, and Travel Insurance International Citizens Insurance Logo "Our growth - especially in the group segment, which has surged over 450% in just two years - is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team," said Joe Cronin, President of ICI. "We remain committed to being the trusted partner for global citizens, expatriates, and international organizations seeking tailored insurance solutions." Expanding our Global Team To support this expansion, ICI significantly grew its team across marketing, sales, and operations. "We're proud to welcome new team members who are passionate about our mission," added Cronin. "Their contributions help us ensure that every international individual and organization we serve feels protected and supported throughout their journey." Industry Recognition In recognition of its outstanding performance, ICI received multiple industry accolades in 2024: Cigna Global named ICI the Top Producing Broker, Americas - Global Individual Health for the third consecutive year. GeoBlue honored ICI with the 2024 Sales Excellence Award for exceptional growth and client service. "We were honored to be recognized again by Cigna Healthcare at their Global Broker Advisory Council in Hawaii," said Cronin. "These awards underscore the strength of our partnerships and our unwavering focus on delivering exceptional healthcare solutions to globally mobile clients. We look forward to building on this momentum in 2025." Looking Forward to the New Year Building on its momentum, International Citizens Insurance is focused on continued expansion in 2025. The company will enhance its product offerings and invest further in customer experience and retention. Key strategic priorities for the year ahead include: 1. Personalized, Flexible Global Benefits To meet the evolving needs of a diverse, international workforce, ICI will expand its range of customizable insurance solutions. Why it matters: Today's employees expect choice and flexibility, while employers seek competitive benefits to attract and retain global talent. 2. Technology-Driven Client Experience ICI will continue to improve its digital platforms, streamlining everything from plan selection to claims processing. Why it matters: Globally mobile clients and HR teams demand a seamless, digital-first experience - anytime, anywhere. 3. Enhanced Focus on Duty of Care and Client Service With international mobility on the rise, ICI is strengthening its core offerings and support services. Why it matters: Organizations must demonstrate they are focused on customer support and providing equitable benefits to their global teams while complying with regional regulations. About International Citizens Insurance International Citizens Insurance (ICI) is the trusted partner for global citizens, expatriates, and organizations seeking comprehensive, personalized insurance solutions. Specializing in health, life, and travel insurance, we provide tailored coverage designed to meet the unique needs of individuals and businesses navigating life abroad. Our team of dedicated experts offers reliable guidance and unwavering support, ensuring our clients feel confident, prepared, and fully protected. With a customer-first approach, extensive global reach, and a wide range of high-quality coverage options, ICI stands apart as the premier choice for those who value peace of mind while exploring the world. SOURCE: International Citizens Insurance Voysey Brands is thrilled to announce its acquisition of Magisso, a Finnish design brand celebrated for its innovative and elegant home solutions. This strategic acquisition marks an exciting milestone for Voysey Brands as it expands its portfolio with brands that embody bold innovation, exceptional functionality, and timeless design. Founded in Finland in 2008, Magisso has captivated the global market with its innovative and elegant home solutions, each thoughtfully designed to solve everyday problems while adding a touch of surprise and sophistication. From award-winning cake slicers to sleek dining and kitchen essentials, Magisso's products seamlessly combine functionality with timeless design, making them both practical tools and conversation starters. The decision to acquire Magisso was driven by its unique blend of innovation and artistry. "From the first moment I encountered Magisso's designs, I was inspired by their ability to transform ordinary items into extraordinary solutions," said Marine Antikainen, Managing Director of Voysey Brands. "Magisso doesn't just create products; they redefine how we interact with our homes, bringing beauty and ingenuity into the everyday." This philosophy aligns perfectly with Voysey's mission to nurture brands that not only lead their markets but also connect with consumers in meaningful and lasting ways. By joining forces with Magisso, Voysey Brands aims to expand the reach of this innovative Finnish design brand and introduce its award-winning, problem-solving solutions to a broader global audience. Voysey Brands is dedicated to preserving Magisso's commitment to clever functionality, timeless elegance, and an element of surprise, ensuring that its core values remain intact while building on its legacy of design excellence. "We are thrilled to welcome Magisso into the Voysey Brands family and look forward to supporting its growth while staying true to its roots and values," said Marine Antikainen, Managing Director of Voysey Brands. "Together, we will continue to inspire customers worldwide with products that combine innovation, beauty, and practicality." Magisso founders Anssi Hurme and Juhani Siren shared their confidence in the partnership: "From the beginning, our goal was to create designs that solve real problems while surprising and delighting customers. Voysey Brands is the best new home for Magisso. With Voysey's resources and vision, we're excited to see Magisso grow to new heights." Anssi Hurme The acquisition is effective immediately, and Magisso will continue to operate under its esteemed brand name. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250404532599/en/ Contacts: Marine Antikainen Managing Director at Voysey Brands marine@voyseybrands.com Las Vegas Sands During Women's History Month 2025, Sands is featuring women who help drive the company's success and exemplify its culture of advancement. Penny Lo joined Marina Bay Sands in 2010 as associate general counsel and now serves as vice president and deputy general counsel, data protection officer. Over the years, she has held different roles on the legal team including interim chief compliance officer and interim general counsel. Her current scope of work covers all non-gaming contracts and projects, business unit legal, HR issues, development contracts related to Marina Bay Sands' expansion and certain gaming regulatory matters. She also serves as data protection officer for the resort and works closely with the cybersecurity and IT teams in this area. What is your background at Marina Bay Sands? "I had worked in Shanghai from 2004 to 2009 in an Asia Pacific attorney role and was traveling regionally for my job. When my second child was about to arrive, I felt it would be easier to raise my two children with the support of my extended family in Singapore. My then-boss Faris Alsagoff had joined Marina Bay Sands in 2010 and asked me if I was interested in an opening at the resort. It was a great opportunity to join an exciting new industry in Singapore and with less travel involved so I could be home more for my kids. "In the early years I worked mostly on gaming-related legal and compliance work. I would not have been able to survive if not for the generosity of much more experienced people in casino management who spent many hours explaining the inner workings of a casino to me. "After Faris left the company, I took on two portfolios - running the legal department and the surveillance department. It was the toughest part of my career because I was thrust into the deep end. On top of that, I decided to have my third child. "Eventually, Faris came back to Marina Bay Sands. Running the legal department with him for the last 14 years has been a fulfilling experience, especially when it's a department where people are happy and stay for many years." What resources and experiences helped you build a successful career? "I think 'success at work' is a combination of a multitude of factors, not all of which are under one's control and some of which are really because people helped and gave me opportunities. So much of it is also by chance. For example, who would have thought I would have the opportunity to help build the legal department from scratch in 2010 to what it is today and to do it for a company like Marina Bay Sands? It only happened because I was there at the right time, and Faris and former managing director George Tanasijevich gave me an opportunity. "From a training standpoint, I would not be where I am today without the eight years I spent working at Drew & Napier training under two amazing partners in the corporate department. They had extremely high standards of work and they taught me so much about how to analyze problems. In those years, legal associates worked 12-hour days, which also taught me the value of hard work. "Another turning point was when I decided to pursue a master's degree in business administration in France at INSEAD. The year in France really opened up the world to me and made me much more intellectually curious. After INSEAD, I joined a London marketing/brand strategy consultancy and worked for their Shanghai office where I helped write a book on Chinese brands in the early 2000s when China was just opening up. I was not in comfortable territory, but I did these things because I was exploring. I would tell myself, 'There's no magic to it, even the most experienced person has to start from ground zero'. "When I went to Shanghai to work in a regional legal role for a U.S. multinational corporation, I spent a lot of time doing mergers and acquisitions work - divesting large global business divisions and handling environmental issues in China and India. Again, this was not something I had any experience in, but I learned a lot. I think that when you have diverse experiences like these, you are constantly learning. Later on, these experiences give you insights that can be applied to solving other problems. "My takeaway is that it's important to not be too linear in one's approach to life and career. As long as you are growing and learning, you will be fine!" What are your ideas for empowering women in their careers? "It really is down to dealing with the individual. In the same way that my boss has given me opportunities, we also have to proactively give opportunities to women when we see the potential in them. "As an older executive, I have the experience to see what a younger person is lacking, and I can see when I am in a position to help that younger person build what she lacks so that she gets even better. For example, I could have someone working for me who is technically very capable but lacking in public speaking skills. So what I might do is work with her on an important presentation; make her deliver it; then I give feedback, and we do it again at the next opportunity. When she eventually nails it, I tell her how great she was. "You have to do this in many ways - including when you see that you can help them move on to another portfolio and that it would really boost their career even if it means they leave you. But it also takes two to tango; the younger person has to have enough trust in you to take on your advice and feedback. How do you build that trust? That's the most difficult piece. It is built over the thousands of small interactions where you hope that she sees you have her best interests at heart. "I also like to tell the women who work for me not to shy away from projects and new pieces of work. I try to tell them not to regard it as work but as another chance to learn something new and create something useful. It may even generate new options for them. Ultimately if nothing else, you become more skilled, more experienced. Everything you experience brings with it greater wisdom." What advice do you have for women or anyone who wants to advance in their careers? "I have this little line: 'My life is not my CV'. Because we spend so much time at work and work is so encompassing, it can take over your life. But your life is not your CV, and it shouldn't be. It's important to ensure you know who you are and that it is not just an identity that is associated with who you are at work. This makes everything much more balanced. It also allows you to manage your CV so that it fits the life you want to lead and not the other way around. "As one of the founders of EmpowHER, I try to encourage the other women at Marina Bay Sands not to be afraid - if you don't step up, no one will notice you, and you will not have an impact. If you do step up, unfortunately you do have to do more work - everything comes with a trade-off. It's up to you - what do you want to do with your time at Marina Bay Sands?" View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Las Vegas Sands on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Las Vegas Sands Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/las-vegas-sands Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Las Vegas Sands Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSXV: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) ("Ucore" or the "Company"), acknowledges the recent joint announcement by China's Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs regarding export restrictions on critical rare earth elements effective April 4, 2025. As reported by multiple news sources, the export restrictions, applicable to all countries, include seven key medium and heavy rare earth elements, including samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium and yttrium. China's decision to implement these export controls underscores the critical importance of establishing a secure and independent rare earth supply chain in North America. Ucore remains steadfast in its commitment to mitigating supply chain vulnerabilities through the development and commercialization of its proprietary RapidSX rare earth element refining technology. Ucore's Strategic Initiatives: U.S. Department of Defense Collaboration: Ucore is currently processing heavy rare earth elements at its RapidSX Commercial Demonstration Plant (the " Demonstration Plant ") further to its USD$4 million contract with the US Department of Defense. The Demonstration Plant was constructed in Kingston, Ontario for the purpose of demonstrating the RapidSX technology at commercial scale. Ucore is currently processing heavy rare earth elements at its RapidSX Commercial Demonstration Plant (the " ") further to its USD$4 million contract with the US Department of Defense. The Demonstration Plant was constructed in Kingston, Ontario for the purpose of demonstrating the RapidSX technology at commercial scale. Louisiana Strategic Metals Complex (SMC): Ucore is progressing with the development of the Louisiana SMC in Alexandria, Louisiana. This facility is being designed to process broad both heavy and light mixed rare earth chemical concentrates, thereby reducing North America's reliance on foreign sources. Ucore is progressing with the development of the Louisiana SMC in Alexandria, Louisiana. This facility is being designed to process broad both heavy and light mixed rare earth chemical concentrates, thereby reducing North America's reliance on foreign sources. Government Support: Ucore has additionally secured a $4.28 million funding agreement from the Government of Canada to demonstrate the commercial efficacy of the RapidSX technology. This funding supports the production of high-purity rare earth elements from Canadian and U.S. feedstock sources. In addition to federal government support, the Company has executed a non-binding Letter of Intent with the State of Louisiana with respect to State grants, tax incentives, payroll rebates and other incentives with an estimated value of USD$15 million. On March 20, 2025, President Trump invoked wartime powers under the Defense Production Act to address threats to America's national and economic security as a result of reliance on "hostile foreign powers' mineral production" (see Ucore Press Ucore Applauds White House Executive Action to Strengthen Critical Mineral Production - Ucore Rare Metals Inc.). The Executive Order outlines a number of initiatives to "facilitate domestic mineral production to the maximum extent possible" and is aimed at the production of a number of critical minerals, including rare earth elements. Ucore looks forward to continuing its work the US Department of Defense in developing a North American supply chain for these critical materials. Pat Ryan, P.Eng., Chairman and CEO of Ucore, stated: "China's recent announcement highlights the urgent need for a robust and independent rare earth supply chain in North America. Ucore's RapidSX technology offers a transformative solution to this challenge, and we are committed to advancing our strategic initiatives to ensure a stable and secure supply of critical rare earth elements." # # # About Ucore Rare Metals Inc. Ucore is focused on rare- and critical-metal resources, extraction, beneficiation, and separation technologies with the potential for production, growth, and scalability. Ucore's vision and plan is to become a leading advanced technology company, providing best-in-class metal separation products and services to the mining and mineral extraction industry. Through strategic partnerships, this plan includes disrupting the People's Republic of China's control of the North American REE supply chain through the near-term establishment of a heavy and light rare-earth processing facility in the U.S. State of Louisiana, subsequent Strategic Metal Complexes in Canada and Alaska and the longer-term development of Ucore's 100% controlled Bokan-Dotson Ridge Rare Heavy REE Project on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, USA. Ucore is listed on the TSXV under the trading symbol "UCU" and in the United States on the OTC Markets' OTCQX Best Market under the ticker symbol "UURAF." For further information, please visit www.ucore.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements." All statements in this release (other than statements of historical facts) that address future business development, technological development and/or acquisition activities (including any related required financings), timelines, events, or developments that the Company is pursuing are forward-looking statements. The details of the legislation by which tariffs are implemented can potentially impact the effectiveness of the protections afforded by Foreign Trade Zones. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance or results, and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Regarding any disclosure in the press release above about the US Department of Defense or the Government of Canada Programs and the expected successful progress and resulting milestone payments from these Programs, the Company has assumed that the Programs (including each of their milestones) will be completed satisfactorily. For additional risks and uncertainties regarding the Company, the CDF, the Demo Plant and ongoing Programs (generally), see the risk disclosure in the Company's MD&A for Q3-2023 (filed on SEDAR on November 20, 2023) (www.sedarplus.ca) as well as the risks described below. Regarding the disclosure above in the "About Ucore Rare Metals Inc." section, the Company has assumed that it will be able to procure or retain additional partners and/or suppliers, in addition to Innovation Metals Corp. ("IMC"), as suppliers for Ucore's expected future Strategic Metals Complexes ("SMCs"). Ucore has also assumed that sufficient external funding will be found to complete the Demo Plant demonstration schedule and also later prepare a new National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") technical report that demonstrates that the Bokan Mountain Rare Earth Element project ("Bokan") is feasible and economically viable for the production of both REE and co-product metals and the then prevailing market prices based upon assumed customer offtake agreements. Ucore has also assumed that sufficient external funding will be secured to continue the development of the specific engineering plans for the SMCs and their construction. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, without limitation: IMC failing to protect its intellectual property rights in RapidSX RapidSX failing to demonstrate commercial viability in large commercial-scale applications; Ucore not being able to procure additional key partners or suppliers for the SMCs; Ucore not being able to raise sufficient funds to fund the specific design and construction of the SMCs and/or the continued development of RapidSX adverse capital-market conditions; unexpected due-diligence findings; the emergence of alternative superior metallurgy and metal-separation technologies; the inability of Ucore and/or IMC to retain its key staff members; a change in the legislation in Louisiana or Alaska and/or in the support expressed by the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority ("AIDEA") regarding the development of Bokan; the availability and procurement of any required interim and/or long-term financing that may be required; and general economic, market or business conditions. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined by the TSXV) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. CONTACTS Mr. Michael Schrider, P.E., Ucore Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, is responsible for the content of this news release and may be contacted at 1.902.482.5214. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247345 SOURCE: Ucore Rare Metals Inc. Children's Mercy Hospital announced a $152 million expansion plan for its Overland Park campus that would help it provide better services. The announcement was made on Thursday in a news release, which also detailed that the first phase is already underway at Children's Mercy Hospital Kansas, with the first being an expansion of surgical services. Children's Mercy Hospital Expansion This first phase would include the renovation of the sterile processing department as well as making a bigger space for pre-operation, post-operation, and procedural care. The addition of new procedure rooms and the expansion of facilities will let the hospital meet the growing demand for various services, such as ear, nose, and throat, orthopedics, and gastroenterology. The news release also revealed that the construction of the initial expansion is scheduled to be completed by summer 2026. Other future expansion work would include a new medical office building to consolidate outpatient services that are currently scattered. Hospital renovations and upgrades to spaces that were vacated by the consolidation of outpatient services. There are also new programs planned to be added, including inpatient rehab, intensive outpatient programs, an expanded gastrointestinal motility program, and a neuroscience center of excellence, according to The Kansas City Star. Furthermore, there will be parking upgrades and exterior improvements to improve wayfinding and accessibility. During construction, parking and emergency services will remain accessible for those who may need them. Read more: Newborn Babies in a West Texas Hospital Were Potentially Exposed to Measles Alejandro Quiroga, CEO and president of Children's Mercy said that the expansion would allow for more families to gain access to world-class care closer to home at Kansas' only freestanding pediatric hospital. Quiroga added that by bringing all of their outpatient services together, improving hospital facilities, and creating a modern, connected campus, they can ensure that they can meet the growing needs of patients and families in the area, Fox4KC reported. Providing Better Services The hospital currently has four operating rooms and the expansion plans will add two procedure spaces. Rachel Meyers, a mother of eight from Belton, said the improvements to the hospital excite her as well as what new stuff they could offer residents. Amy Fallon, the president of Regional Operations at Children's Mercy, said that they are listening to the needs of physicians and families in this community. She added that the expansion of their Kansas hospital strengthens their capacity to serve the ever-growing pediatric population. Fallon added that the expansion is more than just adding new rooms or advancing the hospital's technology. She argued it was about deepening their commitment and reaffirming their dedication to providing top-quality, accessible health care to every child that needs it, as per AOL. DELRAY BEACH, Fla., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The United States (USA) Machine Vision Market is expected to reach USD 2.35 billion by 2028, up from USD 1.69 billion in 2023, at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2023 to 2028 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets." the US is expected to reach USD 2.35 billion by 2028, up from USD 1.69 billion in 2023, at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2023to 2028. View detailed Table of Content here -https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/industrial-machine-vision-market-234246734.html Machine vision is experiencing increased growth in the US due to artificial intelligence developments, industrial automation demands, and a rise in quality and defect examination frequency. The machine vision technology adoption rate across sectors, including manufacturing, automotive, electronics, healthcare, and food & beverage, is increasing because businesses gain improved precision and efficiency and reduce costs through these technologies. Deep learning and IoT connectivity with machine vision systems now enable improved performance in predictive maintenance applications as well as smart manufacturing operations. In the US, the market expansion results mainly from organizations requiring advanced quality management with enhanced productivity and decreased operational expenses. Managed advancements in artificial intelligence and deep learning, together with these systems, lead to sophisticated applications that boost industry adoption of these technologies in the US. Various companies such as National Instruments Corporation (US), Teledyne Technologies (US), Texas Instruments (US), Intel Corporation (US), and Microsoft (US) are working for the growth of the machine vision market in the US. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=234246734 Smart camera-based system is driving the adoption of machine vision systems in the US The US machine vision market is experiencing rapid growth because of improved, innovative camera-based machine vision systems that handle imaging and security tasks. Companies are making investments and product launches to lead in the market. For instance, in May 2023, Teledyne DALSA, a Teledyne Technologies (US) subsidiary, announced the commencement of production for its Linea 2 4k Multispectral 5GigE line scan camera. This advanced camera elevates the capabilities of vision systems with its exceptional performance and value. It incorporates a 5GigE interface, providing five times the bandwidth of the Linea GigE camera, and represents a significant leap forward in terms of speed and data transfer capabilities. Further, modern systems leverage artificial intelligence integration with image processing technologies to enhance their ability to process real-time data with automated decision capabilities. These devices boost security threat prevention and response through their sophisticated facial recognition capabilities, anomaly detection, and surveillance operations. Hence, US industries' fast implementation of machine vision technology occurs because they desire automated systems that combine numerous benefits, including better security protocols, to expand their industry presence. Pharmaceuticals industry to grow at a significant pace in the US Machine Vision Market The pharmaceutical industry in the US is expected to grow at an impressive pace during the forecast period. The pharmaceutical industry is one of the key industries in the US that uses substantial funds to advance technology, creating optimal circumstances for machine vision implementation. Industrial demand for machine vision solutions increases because pharmaceutical manufacturers automate their processes, requiring defect detection capabilities and robotic control systems. The Food and Drug Administration requires pharmaceutical manufacturers to maintain strict quality control by tracking all materials through advanced analysis systems that inspect vials and packaging materials alongside labels. Enhancements in AI capabilities and deep learning methods, along with high-speed image analysis technologies through these methods, improve pharmaceutical machine vision systems that protect product safety and maintain regulatory requirements. Inquiry Before Buying: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=234246734 Key Players The companies of Machine Vision Market companies include Cognex Corporation (US), National Instruments Corporation (US), Teledyne Technologies (US), Texas Instruments (US), Intel Corporation (US), and Microsoft (US). These players have adopted various organic and inorganic growth strategies such as product launches, expansions, partnerships, collaborations, acquisitions, and agreements to strengthen their position in the market. Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=234246734 Browse Adjacent Market: Semiconductor and Electronics Market Research Reports &Consulting About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's Best Management Consulting Firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. With the widest lens on emerging technologies, we are proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients across the globe. Today, 80% of Fortune 2000 companies rely on MarketsandMarkets, and 90 of the top 100 companies in each sector trust us to accelerate their revenue growth. With a global clientele of over 13,000 organizations, we help businesses thrive in a disruptive ecosystem. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion in new revenue streams that are replacing existing ones within this decade. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we collaborate with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies to keep them future-ready. Our insights and strategies are powered by industry experts, cutting-edge AI, and our Market Intelligence Cloud, KnowledgeStore, which integrates research and provides ecosystem-wide visibility into revenue shifts. In addition, MarketsandMarkets SalesIQ enables sales teams to identify high-priority accounts and uncover hidden opportunities, helping them build more pipeline and win more deals with precision. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook . Contact: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar MarketsandMarkets INC. 1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit Our Web Site: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/industrial-machine-vision-market.asp Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/usa-industrial-machine-vision.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1868219/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/united-states-usa-machine-vision-market-worth-2-35-billion-by-2028---exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302420627.html The global interior design market is experiencing rapid growth, with projections estimating its value to reach $255 billion by 2027, driven by increasing demand for personalized and efficient home solutions. Within this space, the online interior design segment is expanding at an unprecedented rate, fueled by digital transformation and shifting consumer behavior toward virtual experiences. ELEGANZA AI is a pioneering SaaS platform that is redefining how homeowners, designers, and retailers approach furnishing and decorating spaces. By merging AI-powered 3D visualization with real, purchasable products, ELEGANZA AI aims to eliminate traditional inefficiencies and introduce a seamless, cost-effective, and scalable solution to interior design. Addressing Market Pain Points: A Multi-Billion Dollar Opportunity. For decades, the process of designing and furnishing interiors has been riddled with costly inefficiencies. Traditional methods involve: High consultation fees Long decision-making cycles Significant risks related to product mismatches and returns The global interior design and furniture market is valued at over $800 billion, with a growing demand for digital solutions that cater to both end consumers and professionals. ELEGANZA AI is tapping into this immense market by providing an end-to-end, AI-driven platform that bridges the gap between visualization and purchase, ensuring that every design decision translates into a practical, executable reality. ELEGANZA AI: The One-Click Solution for Interior Design. Unlike conventional rendering services, which charge between $400 and $2500+ per image, ELEGANZA AI is bringing to market an on-demand, interactive experience where users can generate, modify, and finalize room layouts in real time. The platform leverages advanced AI and computer vision technologies to create photorealistic, adjustable 3D designs that directly correlate with real-life furniture, lighting, and decor options from verified manufacturers. Key Features: Instant Photorealistic Designs : Users can upload floor plans and style references, and within minutes, ELEGANZA AI produces a fully furnished, high-resolution 3D rendering. Seamless Modifications : If a sofa's color is off or the dimensions seem inaccurate, users can swap items with a click, generating a new version instantly. Budget Optimization : The platform ensures that all generated designs align with the user's defined budget, preventing unexpected costs. Technical Precision: Alongside visual renderings, users receive technical drawings and floor plans to ensure that designs are both beautiful and functional. A Win for Consumers and Businesses. ELEGANZA AI is not just an innovation for homeowners - it represents a paradigm shift for retailers, manufacturers, and design professionals: For Consumers : A no-risk, intuitive way to visualize and purchase home furnishings with confidence. For Retailers and Manufacturers : Reduced reliance on physical showrooms and faster customer conversion rates. For Interior Designers: A tool that streamlines project workflows, eliminating manual adjustments and lengthy approval processes. ELEGANZA AI stands apart by offering instant, photorealistic rendering with direct purchasing options, streamlining decision-making and eliminating the gap between visualization and reality. Visionary Leadership Driving Innovation. ELEGANZA AI is led by a team of accomplished entrepreneurs, technology pioneers, and industry veterans: Viktor Gordieiev - Co-founder, visionary behind ELEGANZA AI's streamlined approval and design process . Yulia Danilova-Meretska - Co-founder, expert in high-end European furniture markets, ensuring the platform meets luxury industry standards. Slava Oganesian - Co-founder, expert in interactive digital twinning with a focus on business development, specializing in strategic growth of real-time 3D solutions for real estate and e-commerce; a driving force behind ELEGANZA 3D technology. Maksim Lykasau - Co-founder, expert in digital twinning, specializing in hyperrealistic 3D visualization and advanced real-time solutions for real estate and e-commerce; a driving force behind ELEGANZA 3D technology. Denys Biliak - Co-founder and expert in IT, AI, and construction with a proven track record of launching and scaling successful businesses across international markets. Olexandra Pendrakovska - Co-founder, integrates AI into the platform, drawing on 15+ years of experience in interior design and business leadership. Alexey Meretskiy - Co-founder, entrepreneur with 15+ years of success in tech and finance. "ELEGANZA AI isn't just transforming interior design-it's setting a new standard for how digital visualization and e-commerce integrate." - Alexey Meretskiy. Financial Prospects and Monetization Strategy ELEGANZA AI presents a compelling investment opportunity with multiple revenue streams designed to ensure long-term profitability and scalability. Revenue Model: Subscription-Based Access : A tiered SaaS subscription model offering different levels of access for homeowners, designers, and enterprises. Licensing and API Integration : Collaboration with e-commerce platforms and furniture manufacturers to integrate ELEGANZA AI's visualization tools into their existing ecosystems. B2B Partnerships: Strategic alliances with interior design firms, real estate developers, and furniture retailers to enhance their customer engagement and streamline design-to-purchase processes. Investor Interest and Expansion Strategy. As AI-driven design solutions gain traction, venture capital interest in this sector has surged. ELEGANZA AI is actively engaging with investors to secure funding for: Growth Initiatives: Market Penetration in North America and Europe : Establishing partnerships with major furniture brands and e-commerce platforms. Technology Enhancements : Continuous development of AI algorithms to improve design accuracy and user experience. Global Expansion: Entering emerging markets where digital interior design adoption is accelerating. By capitalizing on these opportunities, ELEGANZA AI aims to redefine the interior design industry and deliver significant returns for early-stage investors. The Future of ELEGANZA AI. ELEGANZA AI is just the first step in what the founders describe as the ELEGANZA Ecosystem - a suite of digital solutions revolutionizing furniture retail, e-commerce, and home automation. With two additional products in development, the company aims to extend its technology into adjacent markets, offering groundbreaking solutions for consumers and businesses alike. As the global interior design market pivots towards AI-driven automation, ELEGANZA AI is positioning itself as a transformative force in the industry. By combining cutting-edge technology, real-time customization, and strategic scalability, the platform is set to attract consumers, retailers, investors, and design professionals seeking to streamline operations and maximize profitability. Contacts: NAME: Denys Biliak E-Mail: info@eleganza.ai Website: eleganza.ai SOURCE: ELEGANZA AI The April edition of FinTech Magazine features exclusive interviews and insights from leaders at BBVA, Abzena, Mollie, Yuno, Chainalysis, Ecommpay, and more-exploring innovation across AI, blockchain, open banking, and financial regulation. LONDON, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BizClik, the UK's fastest-growing digital media and publishing company, has released the April 2025 edition of FinTech Magazine . Known for its executive-led content and deep dives into industry transformation, the publication continues to be a trusted voice across the global financial services and technology sectors. FinTech Magazine - April 2025 Edition This month's edition highlights how financial institutions and fintech companies are leveraging cutting-edge technology to redefine the future of finance. Cover Feature: BBVA in Switzerland COO Francisco Javier Arranz and CFO Eva Blaya outline how the bank is leading digital innovation through AI, blockchain, and strategic transformation. "The CFO is no longer just the guardian of financial performance but a key driver of digital transformation." - Eva Blaya, CFO, BBVA in Switzerland Abzena - CIO David Williamson discusses data-led biotech finance strategies and the power of predictive analytics in innovation Ecommpay - CRO Moshe Winegarten explains how APIs are changing banking decisions Mollie & Yuno - Executives Dave Smallwood and Carol Grunberg explore regulatory complexity in a multi-jurisdictional world Chainalysis - CEO Jonathan Levin details how the company is setting global standards for crypto investigations Risk Management & Predictive Analytics - AI-led financial modelling insights from: Gunnar Mar Gunnarsson , PAYSTRAX , PAYSTRAX Mark Dearman , FintechOS , FintechOS Alan Jacobson, Alteryx Cloud in Financial Services - Leaders from IBM, Capgemini, GFT Technologies, Persistent Systems, Red Hat, Protegrity, and SaaScada unpack trends in compliance, sovereignty, and scalability Top 10 Women in FinTech - A spotlight on the standout leaders shaping the future of finance, taken from the 2025 Top 100 Women in FinTech ranking Explore the April edition for more on AI, open banking, digital risk management, cloud innovation, and the people leading the transformation of global financial services. About BizClik BizClik is one of the fastest-growing digital media companies in the UK, host to a growing portfolio of industry-leading global brands and communities. BizClik's expanding portfolio includes Technology, AI, FinTech, InsurTech, Supply Chain, Procurement, Energy, Mining, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Mobile, Data Centre, Cyber, and Sustainability. For more information, please visit our website . View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bizclik-media-launches-april-edition-of-fintech-magazine-302420928.html Regulatory News: Shareholders are invited to participate at the Combined Shareholders' Meeting of the company Verallia (the "Company") (Paris:VRLA) which will be held on Friday April 25, 2025, at 9:30 am (CET), at the head office of the Company located at 31, Place des Corolles, Tour Carpe Diem, at the Auditorium, Esplanade Nord, 92400 Courbevoie, France. The preliminary notice of the Shareholders' Meeting was published in the French Bulletin des Annonces Legales Obligatoires (BALO) under the number 34 on March 19, 2025. The convening notice has been published in the French Bulletin des Annonces Legales Obligatoires (BALO) under the number 41 on April 4, 2025. The documents that need to be made available for the Shareholders for the General Meeting are available at the head office of the Company in accordance with applicable regulations. The documents referred to in article R.22-10-23 of the French Commercial Code may be consulted on the Company website at the following link, under the section "General Shareholders Meetings": https://www.verallia.com/en/investors/regulated-information About Verallia At Verallia, our purpose is to re-imagine glass for a sustainable future. We want to redefine how glass is produced, reused and recycled, to make it the world's most sustainable packaging material. We work together with our customers, suppliers and other partners across the value chain to develop new, beneficial and sustainable solutions for all. With almost 11,000 employees and 35 glass production facilities in 12 countries, we are the European leader and world's third-largest producer of glass packaging for beverages and food products. We offer innovative, customised and environmentally friendly solutions to over 10,000 businesses worldwide. Verallia produced more than 16 billion glass bottles and jars and recorded revenue of 3.5 billion in 2024. Verallia's CSR strategy has been awarded the Ecovadis Platinum Medal, placing the Group in the top 1% of companies assessed by Ecovadis. Our CO2 emissions reduction target of -46% on scopes 1 and 2 between 2019 and 2030 has been validated by SBTi (Science Based Targets Initiative). It is in line with the trajectory of limiting global warming to 1.5 C set by the Paris Agreement. Verallia is listed on compartment A of the regulated market of Euronext Paris (Ticker: VRLA ISIN: FR0013447729) and trades on the following indices: CAC SBT 1.5, STOXX600, SBF 120, CAC Mid 60, CAC Mid Small and CAC All-Tradable. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250404704900/en/ Contacts: Verallia investor relations contact David Placet david.placet@verallia.com The April editions feature exclusive interviews and insights from industry leaders across AWS, Vodafone, Nokia, BBVA, Equinix and more-covering AI, sustainability, quantum computing, and future-ready infrastructure. LONDON, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BizClik, the UK's fastest-growing B2B digital media company, has released the April 2025 editions of Technology Magazine , Data Centre Magazine and Mobile Magazine . These flagship titles continue to lead the conversation across the tech, telecoms and cloud infrastructure sectors, delivering deep industry insights and exclusive interviews with global executives and innovators. Technology Magazine The April edition explores how technology is driving corporate climate action, transforming AI in automotive, and unlocking new frontiers in quantum computing. The cover feature is a spotlight interview with Rahul Pathak, VP of Data & AI at Amazon Web Services (AWS), discussing the evolving AI landscape and AWS's innovation roadmap. The issue also highlights exclusive interviews with: Ashlie Thurston , Stonegate Group , Stonegate Group David Williamson , Abzena , Abzena Lauren Hymen , PepsiCo , PepsiCo Rajvir (Raj) Madan , Arcutis Biotherapeutics , Arcutis Biotherapeutics Chenzira Allen , Indianapolis Public Schools , Indianapolis Public Schools Eva Blaya & Francisco Javier Arranz , BBVA , BBVA Aggelos Karonis , Kaizen Gaming , Kaizen Gaming Ernest Popescu , metrobloks , metrobloks Gary Watson , Keppel DC REIT , Keppel DC REIT Vasco Goncalves & Ibidapo Ibrahim, Seven Up Bottling Company Also included: A leadership spotlight on Christian Klein , CEO of SAP , CEO of The Top 10 Robotics Companies, featuring Boston Dynamics, KUKA, Universal Robots and more Data Centre Magazine The April issue offers a sharp focus on AI, sustainability, cloud, and the transformation of global digital infrastructure. Highlights include: "Fashion Meets Data Centres" - Maximilian Raynor partners with Equinix to blend design with infrastructure - Maximilian Raynor partners with to blend design with infrastructure Danielle Rossi , Trane Technologies, discusses the future of hybrid data centre design , Trane Technologies, discusses the future of Richard Petrie , CTO at LINX , shares perspectives on IX growth and AI's role in 5G , CTO at , shares perspectives on IX growth and AI's role in 5G Paul Greenley details Vodafone's data centre evolution details Nick Drouet , CTO at Kyndryl , explores the AI sustainability paradox , CTO at , explores the A look at Donald Trump's investment in AI-led data centre assets Gary Watson , Keppel DC REIT, on Ireland's sustainable future , Keppel DC REIT, on Ireland's sustainable future Ernest Popescu, metrobloks, on the rise of AI-ready metro hubs Plus: The Top 10 Data Centre Influencers-featuring leaders from Compass Datacenters, Huawei, Nomad Futurist, and more Mobile Magazine April's edition delivers insights from the frontline of telecoms, mobile tech and next-gen connectivity. Key features include: MWC Barcelona 2025 Special - Interviews with leaders from Ericsson , NVIDIA , and Kyndryl on the future of mobile innovation - Interviews with leaders from , , and on the future of mobile innovation Nokia's Dr. Rolf Werner on quantum-safe networks and the power of AI on and the power of AI Sam Greenslade , CARMA, on how AI and social media are shaping content strategy , CARMA, on how AI and social media are shaping content strategy Top 10 Women in Telco - Spotlighting change-makers at Deutsche Telekom , BT Group , Lumen and others - Spotlighting change-makers at , , and others Andy Train , Cornerstone, on digital infrastructure and AI talent pipelines , Cornerstone, on digital infrastructure and AI talent pipelines Stuart Farrell & Natalia Merkulova , AllPoints Fibre Networks, on the value of strategic procurement , AllPoints Fibre Networks, on the value of strategic procurement Paul Greenley, Vodafone, on the company's evolving data centre strategy Explore the April editions of Technology , Data Centre , and Mobile Magazine today to stay informed on the innovations and strategies shaping the global tech and telco landscape. About BizClik BizClik is one of the fastest-growing digital media companies in the UK, host to a growing portfolio of industry-leading global brands and communities. BizClik's expanding portfolio includes Technology, AI, FinTech, InsurTech, Supply Chain, Procurement, Energy, Mining, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Mobile, Data Centre, Cyber, and Sustainability. For more information, please visit https://www.bizclikmedia.com/ View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bizclik-media-launches-april-editions-of-technology-data-centre--mobile-magazines-302420936.html Final results of the Capital Increase Settlement-delivery of the 17,488,744 New Shares and the 17,488,744 Warrants and listing on Euronext Growth Vitry-le-Francois, France - April 4, 2025, 6:00 pm (CET) On 4 April 2025, CIC Market Solutions, in its capacity as custodian, drew up a certificate in accordance with article L. 225-146 of the French Commercial Code, certifying that all the sums relating to the issue of 17,488,744 ABSA (New Shares with share subscription Warrant) had been paid up in full. The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer therefore duly noted the final completion of the issue in the amount of 6,995,497.60, including a par value of 1,748,874.40 and a share premium of 5,246,623.20, bringing the Company's share capital to 6,218,220.10 divided into 62,182,201 ordinary shares with a par value of 0.10 each. Settlement and delivery of the 17,488,744 New Shares and the 17,488,744 Warrants took place on 4 April 2025. The New Shares (ISIN: FR0014007ND6 - Mnemonic: ALHAF) and the Warrants (ISIN FR001400Y4X9) will be listed for trading on Euronext Growth in Paris from 4 April 2025. The Warrants will be exercisable from 4 April 2026 to 4 October 2026. About Haffner Energy Haffner Energy is a French company providing solutions for the production of competitive clean fuels. With 32 years of experience converting biomass into renewable energies, it has developed innovative proprietary biomass thermolysis and gasification technologies to produce renewable gas, hydrogen and methanol, as well as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The company also contributes to regenerating the planet, through the co-production of biogenic CO 2 and biocarbon (or char/biochar). Haffner Energy is listed on Euronext Growth. (ISIN code: FR0014007ND6 - Ticker: ALHAF). Investor relations investisseurs@haffner-energy.com Media relations BH Macro Limited - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, April 04 BH Macro Limited (the "Company") (a closed-ended collective investment scheme established as a company with limited liability under the laws of Guernsey with registered number 46235) Transaction in Own Shares 04 April 2025 BH Macro Limited (the Company) announces today it has purchased the following number of its ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange from J.P. Morgan Securities plc: Ordinary Shares: - Share Class Sterling Date of purchase: 04 April 2025 Number of ordinary shares purchased: 150,000 Lowest price per share (pence) 373.00 Highest price per share (pence) 381.50 Trading venue London Aggregate volume per date per trading venue: 150,000 Weighted average price per day per trading venue (pence): 377.6812 The Company intends to hold the purchased shares in treasury. Following the above share transactions of the relevant US Dollar and Sterling Shares, the total number of shares in issue in each share class of the Company will be as follows: Ordinary Shares in issue (excluding Treasury) Ordinary Shares held in Treasury 336,323,686 Sterling Shares 39,417,025 Sterling Shares 27,132,086 Dollar Shares Nil Dollar Shares From 04 April 2025, the total number of voting rights in the Company (rounded up to the whole number) is 515,368,807. Enquiries: Company website: www.bhmacro.com William Simmonds JPMorgan Cazenove Tel: 020 7588 2828 The Company Secretary Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited Tel: 01481 745001 BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - European stocks closed weak on Tuesday as trade war fears resurfaced after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump pledged to impose tariffs on all imports from Mexico, Canada and China immediately after taking office in January 2025. This is in response to illegal immigration and 'crime and drugs' coming across the border from these countries to the United States, according to him. 'On January 20th, as one of my many first Executive Orders, I will sign all necessary documents to charge Mexico and Canada a 25% Tariff on ALL products coming into the United States, and its ridiculous Open Borders,' Trump said in a statement posted on Truth Social Monday. 'This Tariff will remain in effect until such time as Drugs, in particular Fentanyl, and all Illegal Aliens stop this Invasion of our Country!' Trump added that import duty on Chinese goods will go up by 10% until Beijing takes action to stem the flow of illegal drugs into the U.S. French political tensions also weighed on markets after far-right leader Marine Le Pen said on Monday that she could bring down France's minority government by the end of the year unless changes are made to the country's budget bill. Meanwhile, traders awaited the release of the FOMC minutes later in the day for insights into the Fed's policy path. The pan European Stoxx 600 ended down 0.57%. The U.K.'s FTSE 100 closed down 0.4%, Germany's DAX and France's CAC 40 settled lower by 0.56% and 0.87%, respectively. Switzerland's SMI finished 0.39% down. Among other markets in Europe, Austria, Belgium, Finland, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden and Turkiye closed weak. Denmark, Greece and Iceland ended on a positive note. In the UK market, Beazley, ICG, Glencore, Rentokil Initial, Lloyds Banking Group, Prudential, Weir Group and Halma closed down 2 to 3.6%. Persimmon, Rio Tinto, Mondi, Berkeley Group Holdings, JD Sports Fashion, B&M European Value Retail, Experian, Barratt Redrow, Frasers Group, Kingfisher and Legal & General lost 1.4 to 2%. Melrose Industries rallied 7.7%. Intertek Group climbed about 3.3%. Imperial Brands, Scottish Mortgage, WPP, Pershing Square Holdings, Sage Group and Compass Group gained 1 to 2%. Halfords jumped nearly 15%. The bicycle and car products retailer has asked for more business support from the government to cope with the cost implications from the recent U.K. budget. In the German market, Daimler Truck Holding ended nearly 6% down. Bayer closed down 4.8%. Volkswagen, Fresenius Medical Care, Zalando, BASF, Deutsche Post, Beiersdorf, Siemens Energy, Fresenius, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, HeidelbergCement and Deutsche Bank ended lower by 0.9 to 2.5%. MTU Aero Engines gained about 2%. Rheinmetall and Puma also closed with strong gains. In the French market, Stellantis tumbled nearly 5%. ArcelorMittal closed down 3.7%. Credit Agricole, Eurofins Scientific, Societe Generale, TotalEnergies, Air Liquide, Perond Ricard, Vivendi, Engie, Airbus Group, Veolia and Essilor closed lower by 1 to 2.2%. Kering climbed about 1.3%. LVMH and Thales posted moderate gains. In economic news, German business sentiment softened in November on a notable deterioration in current conditions as economic struggles deepened, survey results from ifo Institute showed. The business climate index fell to 85.7 in November from 86.5 in the previous month. The score was expected to fall moderately to 86.0. At 84.3, the current situation index dropped to the lowest since July 2020. A report from the British Retail Consortium said UK shop prices dropped at a slower pace in November, signalling that shoppers are set to face rising price pressures. The shop price index declined 0.6% on a yearly basis in November, slower than October's 0.8% decrease. Food price inflation softened to 1.8% from 1.9% in October. UK retailers expect sales to fall further next month despite festive season and their sentiment about situation over the next three months dropped the most in two years in November, according to the latest quarterly Distributive Trades Survey from the Confederation of British Industry. The index measuring business situation for the next three months declined sharply to -21% from -13% in August. This was the weakest since November 2022. Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX 2024 AFX News Beaver Dam police announced that they found the missing pregnant teenager from Wisconsin and arrested the 40-year-old she was with, who is believed to be the father of the unborn child. The Beaver Dam Police Department was notified around 11:40 p.m. on Wednesday, Apr. 2, 2025, that deputies near Omaha, Nebraska, received a tip regarding a potential sighting of the 16-year-old, identified as Sophia Franklin. Missing Pregnant Wisconsin Teen Found Safe Authorities were able to make contact with the teenage girl later, who was accompanied by the man, identified as Gary Day, who was arrested during that time. Officials transported the 16-year-old to a hospital and later to a secure facility to await being reunited with her family. Police also confirmed that both Franklin and her unborn child are healthy and do not have any risk to their lives. The teenager was three months pregnant when her family reported her missing on Feb. 3, 2025. The last time she was seen was when she left her home the day before the report, based on security footage, according to WISN. The family's report triggered an AMBER Alert, which officials later expanded to include Arkansas and Missouri. Officials said they believed Franklin was with Day, who was from Lonoke County, Arkansas. Investigations argued that the teenage girl had been communicating with the 40-year-old man online since around April last year. Prosecutors also initially believed that Day picked the teen girl up and took her to his home in central Arkansas. Franklin's family shared the struggles of not knowing where the teenager was despite her 17th birthday passing by. The teen's mother they were living their life with the uncertainty of tomorrow of whether or not they could move forward in certain aspects, WMTV15 News reported. AMBER Alerts in Wisconsin The Wisconsin Department of Justice revealed that nearly half of the AMBER Alerts in the state have ended after someone called authorities to provide information. Since 2003, officials said there have been 65 AMBER Alerts in Wisconsin. When officials made contact with Franklin and Day, they asked the two about their age difference, and they received inconsistent stories. The 40-year-old was later taken into custody by Sarpy County deputies and is facing charges of child abduction and child enticement. Records showed that there were warrants out of Wisconsin and Arkansas for Day, and he is facing extradition to one of those states. Investigators also said that video captured the man outside the teenage girl's home earlier this year, as per KETV. Forbo Holding AG / Key word(s): AGMEGM Forbo shareholders approved all proposals of the Board of Directors 04.04.2025 / 18:30 CET/CEST MEDIA RELEASE At today's 97th Ordinary General Meeting of Forbo Holding Ltd in Zug, the shareholders approved all of the Board of Directors' proposals by a clear majority. Bernhard Merki was elected as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors. The dividend of CHF 25 per share will be paid from April 11, 2025. Baar, April 4, 2025 Today's Ordinary General Meeting of Forbo Holding Ltd was attended by 159 shareholders, representing 1,088,983 registered shares or 73.33% of the share capital issued. The shareholders accepted all of the Board of Directors' proposals by a clear majority. They approved the Annual Report, the annual statements, the consolidated financial statements, and the Sustainability Report for the 2024 business year and granted discharge to the responsible governing bodies. They also voted in favor of the proposed distribution of earnings in the form of a dividend of CHF 25 per share. The 2024 Remuneration Report was approved by a majority in a consultative vote. The Ordinary General Meeting approved by a large majority the maximum total remuneration of the Board of Directors for 2026, the maximum fixed remuneration of the Executive Board for 2026, the short-term variable remuneration of the Executive Board for 2024, and the maximum long-term equity participation of the Executive Board for 2025. With the exception of This E. Schneider, who did not stand for re-election as a member and Chairman after 21 years of successful service on the Forbo Board of Directors, all previous members of the Board of Directors were confirmed in office. This E. Schneider has been a member of the Board since 2004 and until the end of 2013 was Delegate of the Board of Directors in his role as CEO of the Forbo Group. With his strategic expertise, in-depth understanding of corporate and financial processes, and extensive professional experience, he has played a key role in shaping the Forbo Group for two decades. When he started as CEO, he confidently steered the company through turbulent times. Under his leadership, the Group developed an integrated corporate strategy under a strong, unified Forbo brand. The Board of Directors would like to express its deepest thanks to him for his outstanding commitment and for his trusting cooperation and wishes him all the best for the future. Bernhard Merki - a member of the Board of Directors since April 2024 - was elected as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors for one term of office by an overwhelming majority. The current members of the Board of Directors - Michael Pieper, Claudia Coninx-Kaczynski, Jorg Kampmeyer, Dr. Eveline Saupper, and Vincent Studer - were re-elected as members for another one-year term. The current members of the remuneration committee - Claudia Coninx-Kaczynski, Bernhard Merki, and Michael Pieper - were re-elected for a further year. Lastly, the shareholders have extended the mandate of KPMG Ltd as auditors for a further year. Rene Peyer was also re-elected as the independent proxy. MEDIA RELEASE (PDF FILE) Forbo is a leading producer of floor coverings, building and construction adhesives, as well as belts for power transmission and lightweight conveyor technology. For its clients, the company offers tailored solutions that stand out for their functionality, quality, design, and sustainability. The sustainable manufacture of environmentally friendly products has long been an integral part of the strategy. Forbo's linoleum floor coverings are made from natural raw materials. Linoleum is biodegradable and climate-positive (cradle to gate), without offsetting. For its manufacture of heterogenous vinyl floor coverings, Forbo uses the latest generation of phthalate-free plasticizers. The BioBelt is a conveyor belt consisting of at least 20% renewable raw materials. The AmpMiser conveyor belt allows savings in energy of up to 50%. The company employs about 5,100 people and has an international network of 25 sites with production and distribution, 6 fabrication centers, and 47 sales organizations in a total of 39 countries around the world. The company generated net sales of CHF 1,122.0 million in the 2024 business year. The company is headquartered in Baar in the canton of Zug, Switzerland. The Group company Forbo Holding Ltd is listed on SIX Swiss Exchange (security number 354151, ISIN CH0003541510, Bloomberg FORN SW, Reuters FORN.S). Contact person: Karin Marti Head Corporate Communications Phone +41 58 787 25 41 www.forbo.com www.forbo.com -> Sustainability End of Media Release We are posting this notice to inform former employees of a data breach incident ("Incident") experienced by The Sporn Compony d/b/a Perrywinkle's Fine Jewelry ("Sporn"). We are unable to locate addresses for all former employees whose information may have been involved; so we are issuing this public notice in lieu of individual notification to alert persons that their personal information may have been involved. We take the privacy and security of all information seriously and are providing information about the Incident and steps anyone can take to help protect their information. What Happened: On December 2, 2024, Sporn experienced technical difficulties on its systems and discovered encrypted data as part of an apparent ransomware attack. Sporn took immediate action to re-secure its systems by taking them offline to investigate. Sporn retained cyber counsel who engaged external cybersecurity forensic specialists. From the resulting investigation, Sporn determined an unauthorized actor gained access to its systems between November 23, 2024, and December 2, 2024. Sporn also determined that employee personal data described below appears to have been accessed and acquired. What We Are Doing : Sporn takes this incident seriously. For eligible individuals who had their Social Security number impacted, we are providing those individuals with access to Single Bureau Credit Monitoring services at no cost. These services provide persons with alerts for 12 months from the date of enrollment when changes occur to your credit file. In addition, dedicated team and call center will be to provide support services and address inquiries concerning the incident, credit monitoring, identity protection services, and proactive fraud assistance to help with any questions that you might have. These services will be provided by TransUnion, specializing in fraud assistance and remediation services. To determine your eligibility for these services, please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated assistance line 1-833-998-6750, Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:00am and 9:00pm EST to confirm eligibility and receive a credit monitoring code if you are eligible. If you have any questions regarding the incident, please do not hesitate to contact us. What You Can Do: To date, we are not aware of any reports of identity fraud or fraudulent activity involving your information as a result of this incident. However, it is always prudent for persons to remain vigilant against incidents of identity theft and fraud by reviewing your credit reports and account statements for suspicious activity and to detect errors. If you discover any suspicious or unusual activity on your accounts, please promptly contact the financial institution or company. We have provided additional information below, which contains more information about steps you can take to help protect yourself against fraud and identity theft. For More Information: Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact our dedicated assistance line with our dedicated call center at 1-833-998-6750, Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:00am and 9:00am eastern time, excluding major U.S. holidays. We stay committed to earning your trust in us and continue to be thankful for your support during this time. Sincerely, The Sporn Company d/b/a Perrywinkle's Fine Jewelry Contact Information Annslee Perego annslee.perego@kennedyslaw.com 6466253983 SOURCE: The Sporn Co d/b/a Perrywinkle's Fine Jewelry Art Shopping 2025 officially opened on April 4 at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, France. Among the highlights is Kasashima Gallery from the Kansai region of Japan, presenting its thematic exhibition "La Beaute dans Chaque Eventail", which has already attracted considerable attention from European and American art enthusiasts. The works on display merge the elegance of Chinese ink art with the craftsmanship of Japanese Kyo folding fans, not only showcasing the results of cross-cultural collaboration but also offering visitors a fresh perspective on the fusion of Eastern cultures. Kasashima Gallery's themed section "La Beaute dans Chaque Eventail" is drawing the attention of international visitors. (Photo via Kasashima Gallery) In the "La Beaute dans Chaque Eventail" section, each piece is created on Kyo folding fans produced by century-old ateliers, combining elements of Chinese landscape painting, bird-and-flower painting, traditional calligraphy, hard-nib calligraphy, and contemporary art. The exhibition has drawn visitors from Europe, Asia, and North America, who have been stopping to admire the intricate details of the works. Many guests have expressed keen interest in how the combination of Kyo folding fans and Chinese ink art creates a unique artistic expression. A visitor from Luxembourg commented that the artworks are full of oriental elements and are profoundly captivating. The flowers painted with ink and the fluid calligraphy vividly demonstrate the artists' mastery of Chinese art techniques. Notably, presenting paintings on Japanese folding fans also brings new interpretations to traditional Japanese craftsmanship on the international stage, making it a creative highlight of the show. The guides from Kasashima Gallery are explaining the creative concepts behind the exhibits to international visitors. (Photo via Kasashima Gallery) Kasashima Gallery has invited a strong lineup of artists for this exhibition, including Taiwanese artists Chen Meng-Huan, Angela Lin, Wu Li-Ying, Cheng Tzu-Leong, Chou Yao-Tsung, Chang Yu-Hsuan, Wu Pei-Chi, Huang Tzu-Ying, Wang Guang-Hwa, Chien Hsuan-Ming, Ho Ming-Chu, Yang Ching-Chiang, Wu Hsiu-Yin, Tsai Yu-Yun, Lu Lan-Hsin, Kigawa Kokoro, as well as Japanese artists Sakaguchi Juri and Wada Chiari. According to Kasashima's PR manager, Yu Le, the exhibition is not only a concrete practice of cultural exchange but also an effort to promote the contemporary value of Eastern art to a wider international audience. Kasashima Gallery has long been committed to the international exchange and promotion of Asian art, actively participating in exhibitions in Spain, the United States, Italy, Japan, and beyond, helping Asian art to connect with the global stage. In the future, the gallery will continue to promote Asian artists worldwide through international exhibitions and digital curatorial platforms. A large crowd flocked to the VIP night of Art Shopping 2025. (Photo via Kasashima Gallery) Art Shopping 2025 runs from April 4 to 6 at the Carrousel du Louvre. As one of the major annual events for contemporary art salons, this year's exhibition continues to promote the diversity of artistic languages, featuring a wide array of works, including painting, sculpture, photography, installation art, design, and crafts, showcasing the richness of contemporary artistic practices in terms of cultural context, materials, and creative concepts. Visitors are welcome to experience the unique charm of this international art event in person. Media Contacts: Kasashima Gallery Ada Huang art@kasashima.art https://kasashima.art SOURCE: Kasashima Gallery Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Sorcia Minerals, LLC ("Sorcia"), a subsidiary of Ensorcia Metals Corporation (the "Acquiror"), announces the filing of an early warning report (the "EWR") in connection with the disposition of an aggregate of 7,649,552 common shares (the "Shares") in the capital of International Battery Metals Ltd. (the "Corporation") over the following three transactions (the "Transactions"). 1) On July 28, 2024, the Acquiror, a 10% insider of the Corporation, through its controlled subsidiary, Sorcia, entered into a private transaction for the disposition of 303,398 Shares. The Acquiror previously directly or indirectly controlled 31,258,997 Shares, and following the disposition of 303,398 Shares, the Acquiror directly or indirectly controlled 30,955,599 Shares, representing approximately 12.76% of the issued and outstanding Shares (based on 242,608,091 Shares of the Corporation being issued and outstanding). 2) On August 14, 2024, the Acquiror, through its controlled subsidiary, Sorcia, disposed of an aggregate of 3,846,154 Shares pursuant to an Exchange Agreement with Green Sea Ventures LLC and Elegante Energy LLC, as further described in the EWR. The Acquiror previously directly or indirectly controlled 30,955,599 Shares, and following the disposition of 3,846,154 Shares, the Acquiror directly or indirectly controlled 27,109,445 Shares, representing approximately 11.17% of the issued and outstanding Shares (based on 242,608,091 Shares being issued and outstanding). 3) On March 31, 2025, the Acquiror, through its controlled subsidiary, Sorcia, entered into a private transaction for the disposition of 2,500,000 Shares, and a separate private transaction for the disposition of 1,000,000 Shares. The Acquiror previously directly or indirectly controlled 27,109,445 Shares, and following the disposition of 3,500,000 Shares, the Acquiror directly or indirectly controlled 23,609,445 Shares, representing approximately 9.72% of the issued and outstanding Shares (based on 242,908,091 Shares of the Corporation being issued and outstanding). The securities of the Corporation were disposed of in the Transactions for investment considerations. The Acquiror may acquire additional securities either on the open market or through private acquisitions or sell the securities either on the open market or through private dispositions in the future depending on market conditions and/or other relevant factors. As the Acquiror has fallen below the 10% threshold for reporting insiders, the Acquiror is no longer a reporting insider of the Corporation. This press release is issued pursuant to early warning requirements of National Instrument 62-104 and National Instrument 62-103, which also requires the EWR to be filed with regulatory authorities in each of the jurisdictions containing additional information with respect to the foregoing matters. A copy of the EWR has been filed and is available under the Corporation's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. About Ensorcia Metals Corporation and Sorcia Minerals, LLC Ensorcia Metals Corporation and Sorcia Minerals, LLC are part of Ensorcia Group Holdings, LLC, a privately held holding company which integrates the whole supply chain to ensure the continuous supply of ESG compliant battery grade Lithium for customers. This integrated approach allows Ensorcia to provide an end-to-end battery grade Lithium, with the lowest level of impurities utilizing the only third party proven modular DLE technology in addition to a fully trackable ESG supply chain. The Lithium supply is secured using a fast timeline for the DLE implementation (12 to 18 months), as well as utilizing proven best-in-class technologies for carbonate and hydroxide conversion, the combination of which enables a much faster and more secure implementation than other lithium extraction processes. The control of each step of the Lithium extraction and processing, from the brine sources up to the Lithium carbonate and hydroxide, dramatically reduces the geopolitical dependency observed worldwide in the actual supply chain, and the long-term sovereignty risks along the Lithium supply chain. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247388 SOURCE: Sorcia Minerals LLC Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - IMPACT Silver Corp. (TSXV: IPT) (OTCQB: ISVLF) (FSE: IKL) ("IMPACT" or the "Company") announces it has proposed an extension of 33,357,104 share warrants expiring in 2025 by 18 months subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. The Company intends to extend the expiry date of a total of 30,903,012 share purchase warrants (the "April Warrants") by 18 months, such that they will expire on October 19, 2026. Each of these April Warrants originally entitled the holder thereof to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.35 cents per common share until April 19, 2025. All other terms of the April Warrants, including exercise price, will remain the same. The April Warrants were issued pursuant to a private placement that closed on April 19, 2023. As part of the same financing in 2023, a second tranche closed May 3, 2023. The Company issued 2,454,092 share purchase warrants (the "May Warrants") with each May Warrant originally entitling the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.35 until May 3, 2025. These are also extended by 18 months, such that they will expire November 3, 2026. The extension of the expiry dates of the April Warrants and the May Warrants is subject to receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval. A total of 100,000 April Warrants are held by a director of the Company. Therefore, the extension of the expiry date of these April Warrants constitutes a related party transaction as contemplated by Multilateral Instrument 61-101, Protection of Minority Shareholders in Special Transactions, and TSX-V Policy 5.9, Protection of Minority Shareholders in Special Transactions. However, the exemptions from formal valuation and minority approval requirements provided for by MI 61-101 can be relied upon as the fair market value of the April Warrants held by insiders does not exceed 25 per cent of the market capitalization of the Company. Upon receipt of the approval of the TSX-V of the warrant extensions, a material change report in respect of the warrant extension will be filed by the Company. ABOUT IMPACT SILVER IMPACT Silver Corp. (TSXV: IPT) is a successful producer-explorer with two mining projects in Mexico. Royal Mines of Zacualpan Silver-Gold District: IMPACT owns 100% of the 211 km2 Zacualpan project in central Mexico where four producing underground silver mines and one open pit mine feed the central 500 tpd Guadalupe processing plant. To the south, the Capire Project includes a 200 tpd processing pilot plant adjacent to an open pit silver mine with an NI 43-101 inferred mineral resource of over 4.5 million ozs silver, 48 million lbs zinc and 21 million lbs lead (see IMPACT news release dated January 18, 2016, for details and QP statement). Company engineers are reviewing Capire for a potential restart of operations to leverage improving commodity prices. Over the past 18 years, IMPACT has developed multiple exploration zones into commercial production and has produced over 13 million ounces of silver, generating revenue of more than $277 million, with no long-term debt. Plomosas Zinc-Lead-Silver District: Plomosas is a high-grade zinc producer in northern Mexico with exceptional exploration upside potential. The Company recently restarted mining operations and is ramping up production toward design capacity levels. Exploration potential at Plomosas is exceptional along the 6 km-long structure. This is in addition to other exploration targets on the 3,019-hectare property including untested copper-gold targets with indications of high-grade material at surface. Regionally, Plomosas lies in the same mineral belt as some of the largest carbonate replacement deposits in the world. Qualified Person and NI 43-101 Disclosure George Gorzynski, P.Eng., a Director of IMPACT Silver Corp., is a "Qualified Person" within the meaning of NI 43-101 and has approved the technical information contained in this news release. Additional information about IMPACT and its operations can be found on the Company website at www.IMPACTSilver.com . Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) @IMPACT_Silver and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactsilver. On behalf of IMPACT Silver Corp. "Frederick W. Davidson" President & CEO Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements This IMPACT News Release may contain certain "forward-looking" statements and information relating to IMPACT that are based on the beliefs of IMPACT management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to IMPACT management. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "planned", "expect", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intends", "believe", "potential", and similar expressions, or describes a "goal", or variation of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "should", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding interpretation of drill results, activity at the projects and estimated timing thereof, the potential for defining and extending the known mineralization, exploration potential on the properties, and plans for drilling and future operations at the Company's projects or plans for financing. Such forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks and assumptions, including with respect to, without limitation, exploration and development risks, expenditure and financing requirements, title matters, operating hazards, criminal activity, metal prices, political and economic factors, community relations, competitive factors, general economic conditions, relationships with vendors and strategic partners, governmental regulation and supervision, seasonality, technological change, industry practices, pandemics and one-time events. Should any one or more risks or uncertainties materialize or change, or should any underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and forward-looking statements may vary materially from those described herein. IMPACT does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement or beliefs, opinions, projections or other factors, except as required by law. The Company's decision to place a mine into production, expand a mine, make other production related decisions or otherwise carry out mining and processing operations, is largely based on internal non-public Company data and reports based on exploration, development and mining work by the Company's geologists and engineers. The results of this work are evident in the discovery and building of multiple mines for the Company at Zacualpan and in the track record of mineral production and financial returns of the Company since 2006. Under NI 43-101, the Company is required to disclose that it has not based its production decisions on NI 43-101 mineral resources or reserve estimates, preliminary economic assessments or feasibility studies, and historically such projects have increased uncertainty and risk of failure. 303-543 Granville Street Telephone 604 664-7707 Vancouver, BC, Canada V6C 1X8 www.impactsilver.com X (Twitter) LinkedIn To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247389 SOURCE: IMPACT Silver Corp. France's Electronic Health Record (EHR) sector is undergoing significant transformation, according to survey findings released by Black Book Research. Feedback from 195 French healthcare IT and clinical operations professionals between Q3 2024 and Q1 2025 reveals a nationwide shift toward integrated platforms, enhanced interoperability, and compliance with stringent data protection regulations. Market Consolidation and Interoperability Take Center Stage The French EHR market, traditionally fragmented with regional variations and multiple vendors, is now moving toward unified systems aligned with the Dossier Medical Partage (DMP) initiative and broader European Union digital health frameworks. A recent Black Book survey found that 80% of respondents identified interoperability as the most critical factor in selecting future EHR solutions, with HL7 FHIR and openEHR emerging as the top technical standards. The market, valued at $778 million in 2022, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3%, reaching $986 million by 2030. 77% of survey participants reported active or planned evaluations of their EHR strategies, emphasizing the need for open, scalable, and standards-compliant architectures. Leading vendors identified in the survey include Dedalus DXL, Dedalus ORBIS, Oracle Health, Maincare Solutions, InterSystems, and Agfa. AI Integration: Progress and Challenges Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration in French healthcare is advancing cautiously. Among IT and clinical decision-makers surveyed, 83% expressed interest in incorporating AI-powered tools into their EHR environments-particularly for clinical decision support, predictive analytics, and patient engagement. However, only 4% confirmed that true AI pilots or production deployments had commenced in their organizations. Key barriers to AI adoption include data privacy concerns (91%), integration complexity (88%), and cost (70%). Despite these challenges, AI is expected to play a transformative role in the coming years, with early adopters focusing on predictive analytics, clinical decision support, and automating administrative workflows. National Health IT Initiatives and Regulatory Compliance National health IT initiatives are significantly shaping digital strategies across France. The restructured DMP, relaunched in 2024, remains a central focus, with government targets for widespread patient enrollment by the end of 2025. However, active usage rates remain modest. 90% of respondents indicated that DMP alignment and technical readiness are integral to their 2025 roadmaps. Additionally, 97% of survey participants stated that GDPR compliance significantly influences their vendor selection and system architecture decisions. Furthermore, 33% are actively monitoring the EU AI Act, anticipating moderate-to-high operational impacts on their AI and analytics strategies over the next two years. Digital Health Investments Accelerate The Ma Sante 2022 plan, bolstered by substantial government funding, has accelerated digital investment across the healthcare landscape. Hospital leaders cited clinical documentation systems, e-prescribing workflows, digital imaging solutions, and patient portals as priority areas for modernization. Funding from this initiative has expedited decisions to upgrade legacy EHRs, decommission siloed systems, and adopt interoperable modules that support national care coordination objectives. Future Outlook: Interoperability and AI-Ready Platforms Looking ahead to 2026, the most frequently cited digital health priorities include upgrading or consolidating EHR platforms, enhancing integration between inpatient and ambulatory systems, strengthening cybersecurity measures, and aligning internal platforms with DMP and EU digital policy frameworks. Interoperability remains a cornerstone, with 92% of respondents rating semantic interoperability and modular architecture as "very important" or "critical" in selecting future EHR solutions. "France is making significant strides in prioritizing interoperability and modular EHR architectures, aligning with EU policies to build a healthcare ecosystem capable of leveraging advanced technologies like AI for seamless, patient-centered care," said Doug Brown, Founder of Black Book. About Black Book Research Black Book is an independent research organization recognized for its annual global crowdsourced surveys of healthcare technology users, purchasers, and stakeholders. Since 2010, Black Book has collected feedback from over three million healthcare professionals worldwide to benchmark customer experience, satisfaction, trust, and innovation across hundreds of health IT categories. Contact Information Press Office research@blackbookmarketresearch.com 8008637590 SOURCE: Black Book Research Natuzzi is set to take center stage at the 2025 Milan Design Week, embracing the theme "Rooted in Harmony." Unveiling "Radice" the theme selected for the 2025 MDW and its evocative meanings. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250404195633/en/ Natuzzi Italia flagship store at via Durini, Milan, Italy, at the heart of the design district in Milan Milan Design Week (MDM), with over 2,000 exhibitors and nearly half a million international visitors, is the world's premier stage, annually showcasing the latest design and interior decoration collections from leading global brands. Since 1977, Natuzzi has been a pillar of style and innovation at Milan Design Week. Also this year, we have chosen this stage to celebrate our heritage, present our new collections and the latest developments of our Brand/Retail journey The theme we have selected for this year's MDW edition, "Radice"-the Italian word for "Roots"-symbolizes Natuzzi evolution into a global lifestyle brand while staying true to our heritage and maintaining our integrated value chain in Italy, where it all began in 1959. From the beginning of our journey, 66 years ago, our vision has been inspired by our native Puglia. Our global retail and galleries network aspires to offer consistent and immersive brand experiences to consumers around the world. We carefully blend design, functions, materials, and colors to create harmonious interior design projects. Whether it's an individual room or an entire building, our design projects bring our harmony philosophy to life. In Italy, we maintain a fully integrated value chain: 430 people in the Style Center and offices; 1,500 people in our factories producing all Natuzzi Italia collections; 3,000 people in partner factories within our production ecosystem. Creating unique collections in an ethical and sustainable way requires the full control of the value chain. This is what we have done since 1959. A preview of our latest collections, curated by our style center, alongside new creations resulting from our collaboration with top design talents. At the core of Natuzzi Value chain is our "Centro Stile" where a team of 150 creative designers and professionals envisions, designs, and brings our collections to life. The Style Center is the beating heart of the company, where Pasquale Natuzzi, our Group's founder, remains a constant presence and the guardian of the Natuzzi vision, balancing the apparent trade-off between innovation and heritage, design and comfort. It is in the "Centro Stile" where every idea comes to life through talent, research, and innovation, respecting the brand's DNA and the highest standards of quality and comfort. Collaborations with international designers are materially refined and developed here, curating every detail to transform inspiration into a design project that respects the Natuzzi brand philosophy and meet our Group high-quality standards. We aspire to create perennial beauty. The 2024 collections have already become an architectural reference that blends aesthetics with functionality in a truly Natuzzi way. This is the case with the 2024 'Uragano' table project, entirely designed by our Natuzzi Design Center, which won the MUSE Creative Award. It is also the case with the 'Mirai' collection, designed in collaboration with Andrea Steidl, which has received several global design awards, including the European Product Design Award, Elle Deco China's Best of 2024, the Archiproducts Award and the Good Design Award, one of the oldest and most prestigious design awards in the world, established in 1950 in Chicago. It was founded by Edgar Kaufmann Jr., curator of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Each of our collections, including the new MDW 2025 collection, is designed to offer the full versatility of a project, allowing customization of sofas in terms of shape, colors, and coverings. This makes us an ideal partner for developing total living solutions for individual homes as well as large-scale residential projects. These themes will be central to the representation of our collections at MDW. This year, our collaborations with top design talents include a renewed partnership with Karim Rashid, the eclectic artist of Lebanese origins who lives in New York. Rashid previously collaborated with us in 2024 on the 'Memoria' project, which will be extended this year into a new bed collection. Andrea Steidl, one of the most promising upcoming Italian design talents, who collaborated with us in 2024 on the 'Mirai' collection, will present a revolutionary project aimed at re-imagining the living space. Mauro Lipparini, one of the most authoritative voices in the Italian architectural scene and a long-time collaborator of Natuzzi, has worked to strengthen our dining and living collections. Marcantonio Malerba, a designer and artist known for merging art, design, and nature into functional yet sculptural pieces, has contributed to the development of a project with great artistic sensitivity. With his strong arts background, he collaborates with top brands and exhibits worldwide. In our next newsletter, that will follow the MDW, we will provide a presentation of the latest collections together with the merchandising and marketing programs, anticipating details on their roll-out in our global store network. About Natuzzi: Founded in 1959 by Pasquale Natuzzi, Natuzzi S.p.A. is one of the most renowned brands in the production and distribution of design and luxury furniture. As of December 31, 2024, Natuzzi distributes its collections worldwide through a global retail network of 630 monobrand stores and about 600 galleries. Natuzzi products embed the finest spirit of Italian design and the unique craftmanship details of the "Made in Italy", where a predominant part of its production takes place. Natuzzi has been listed on the New York Stock Exchange since May 13, 1993. Committed to social responsibility and environmental sustainability, Natuzzi S.p.A. is ISO 9001 and 14001 certified (Quality and Environment), ISO 45001 certified (Safety on the Workplace) and FSC Chain of Custody, CoC (FSC-C131540). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250404195633/en/ Contacts: For Information Natuzzi Investor Relations Piero Direnzo tel. +39 080-8820-812 pdirenzo@natuzzi.com Natuzzi Corporate Communication Giancarlo Renna tel. +39. 342.3412261 grenna@natuzzi.com Barbara Colapinto tel. +39 331 6654275 bcolapinto@natuzzi.com Cummins Inc. is pleased to announce the promotion of five exceptional leaders to the position of Vice President, effective March 1, 2025. These leaders bring diverse experience, backgrounds and skillsets to Cummins, and they have each had a profound impact on our company, our customers and our people. "These promotions reflect the outstanding business and leadership contributions of Shveta, Zach, James, Lyndon and Con," said Jennifer Rumsey, Chair and CEO of Cummins. "Their strategic vision and expertise have been instrumental in advancing our Destination Zero strategy, executing commitments to our customers and fostering a culture of excellence at Cummins. I am confident that they will continue to lead with the same passion and commitment in their new roles." Shveta Arya - Vice President - Cummins India and Managing Director of Cummins India Limited: Arya is a strategic and performance-driven leader with over 20 years of industry and management consulting experience across various sectors. Since joining Cummins in 2016, Arya has consistently demonstrated her ability to align teams to a strategic vision and execute on that vision, positioning Cummins as a market leader in India. She has led transformation efforts that resulted in major improvements in profitability in the Power Systems business and launched products that meet stringent emissions standards. In her current role, Arya focuses on developing talent and managing key external stakeholders to ensure Cummins' growth and success in the region. She also serves as Managing Director of Cummins India Limited. Zach Gillen - Vice President - Distribution Business Sales and Service North America: With more than 22 years at Cummins, Gillen has held diverse leadership roles across the company spanning Finance, Power Generation, Emissions Solutions, Mining and Distribution. His extensive travels and experiences have equipped him with a unique understanding of Cummins' customers and global markets. As General Manager of Cummins Sales and Service, North America (CSSNA) since 2022, Gillen has led a team of over 8,000 professionals serving customers in all market segments and in 165 parts and service branches across North America, delivering record sales and profits. He is committed to improving workforce safety and positioning CSSNA for long-term success by increasing investments in the branch network and developing strategic growth initiatives. James Hopkins - Vice President - Engine Business Finance and Strategy: Hopkins has been with Cummins for 15 years, demonstrating his ability to understand the company's strategic direction and execute its priorities. His diverse experience includes roles in finance, investor relations and strategy for the Engine business. Hopkins has played a pivotal role in navigating the business impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and supporting Cummins' Destination Zero strategy. In his current role leading strategy and finance for the Engine Business, Hopkins focuses on the development and execution of strategies to drive new platforms and profitable growth globally. Lyndon Jones - Vice President - Engine Business North American Sales and Customer Support: For nearly two decades, Jones has been a valued leader across the Engine and Distribution businesses, serving various business, sales, service and operations roles at Cummins with increasing responsibility. He has demonstrated his ability to build strong relationships and develop high-performing teams. As the leader of Operations for CSSNA, Jones significantly improved safety and propelled service initiatives. He now leads Engine Business North American Sales and Customer Support, working closely with customers to understand their needs and navigate the energy transition, as well as leading the next-generation platform launch with customers. Con O'Sullivan - Vice President - Power Systems Supply Chain and Operations: O'Sullivan has been an integral part of the Cummins supply chain for the past 28 years. His extensive experience includes roles in supplier quality, procurement and manufacturing within the Components business. Over the last decade, he has taken on increasing responsibilities within the Power Systems supply chain. O'Sullivan has successfully navigated supply chain disruptions cause by the pandemic and led transformational outcomes for Power Systems, leading his teams to improve safety, increase plant output and support record revenue growth for the business. He is also leading the effort to expand the capacity of our global plants to meet the increasing demand of our power generation markets. About Cummins Inc. Cummins Inc., a global power solutions leader, comprises five business segments - Engine, Components, Distribution, Power Systems and Accelera by Cummins - supported by its global manufacturing and extensive service and support network, skilled workforce and vast technological expertise. Cummins is committed to its Destination Zero strategy, which is grounded in the company's commitment to sustainability and helping its customers successfully navigate the energy transition with its broad portfolio of products. The products range from advanced diesel, natural gas, electric and hybrid powertrains and powertrain-related components including aftertreatment, turbochargers, fuel systems, valvetrain technologies, controls systems, air handling systems, automated transmissions, axles, drivelines, brakes, suspension systems, electric power generation systems, electrified power systems with innovative components and subsystems, including battery, fuel cell and electric power technologies and hydrogen production technologies. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana (U.S.), since its founding in 1919, Cummins employs approximately 69,600 people committed to powering a more prosperous world through three global corporate responsibility priorities critical to healthy communities: education, environment and equality of opportunity. Cummins serves its customers online, through a network of company-owned and independent distributor locations, and through thousands of dealer locations worldwide and earned about $3.9 billion on sales of $34.1 billion in 2024. See how Cummins is leading your world toward a future of smarter, cleaner power at www.cummins.com. Media Contact Melinda Koski External Communications Director 317.476.3293 Email View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Cummins Inc on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Cummins Inc Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cummins-inc Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Cummins Inc Mississauga, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - BioSyent Inc. (TSXV: RX) ("BioSyent" or the "Company") announces that Mr. Rene Goehrum, President and CEO of BioSyent, will be presenting in person at the LD Micro Invitational XV Conference in New York City on Thursday, April 10th at 12:00pm EDT. Mr. Goehrum will also be available to meet with investors on a one-on-one basis during the conference on April 10th. These one-on-one meetings can be requested by registered attendees through the online conference portal: LD Micro Invitational XV. About BioSyent Inc. Listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the trading symbol "RX", BioSyent is a profitable growth-oriented specialty pharmaceutical company focused on in-licensing or acquiring innovative pharmaceutical and other healthcare products that have been successfully developed, are safe and effective, and have a proven track record of improving the lives of patients. BioSyent supports the healthcare professionals that treat these patients by marketing its products through its community, specialty and international business units. As of the date of this press release, the Company has 11,254,638 common shares outstanding. For a direct market quote for the TSX Venture Exchange and other Company financial information please visit www.tmxmoney.com. This press release may contain information or statements that are forward-looking. The contents herein represent our judgment, as at the release date, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or outcomes to be materially different from the forward-looking information or statements. Potential risks may include, but are not limited to, those associated with clinical trials, product development, future revenue, operations, profitability and obtaining regulatory approvals. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247398 SOURCE: LD Micro A school voucher bill is moving forward on the Texas House floor as lawmakers advanced the Senate's bill out of committee in a party-line vote. The passage of the bill did not go without controversy as the committee did not livestream the vote. This is something that has been the standard procedure for the past few years. What is known is that the committee voted to advance Senate Bill 2 on what is known as a committee substitute. Texas School Voucher Bill What this means is that lawmakers passed the bill, but it still has some language from the House version of the bill. While there are mainly cosmetic differences between the two, the bill would ultimately allow students to attend private school using public school funds. The state is planning to set aside a $1 billion fund for the effort to support students who wish to make use of it. Republicans who support the measure argue that it provides a path for parents to have more choices about their children's education, according to Fox4News. On the other hand, Democratic lawmakers are pushing back against the bill, arguing that parents already have a choice. They also said that they should have a greater focus on making public schools better instead. Read more: Pennsylvania School Staff Members Charged With Child Abuse Dating Back to November 2024 Democrats held a news conference before the committee vote on the proposed measure and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said he is confident vouchers will pass. This is something that did not happen in the last session. Senate Bill 2 will be eligible for all K-12 students and will provide funding of $10,000 for each one, with additional funds for special needs. Furthermore, 80% of the funds will be allocated to students from public schools, which include low-income and special needs, while the remaining 20% will be distributed via lottery, KHOU reported. Funding for Students On the other hand, another measure, House Bill 3, is also open to all K-12 students but has a focus on low-income and special needs students. It will have 85% of the average public school funding, which is roughly $10,000. It will be available to both public and private school students with tiered priorities. Brandon Rottinghau, a political expert, believes the two bills will likely be merged moving forward as their differences will be worked out in committee. The changes to House Bill 2 and Senate Bill 2 will now head to the full House for further consideration. The proposed measures come as critics raised concerns that lawmakers are simply downplaying the amount of money Texas could spend on school vouchers during the initial rollout. A budget analysis estimated that costs could go as high as $5 billion by 2030, as per KfoxTV. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Rain City Resources Inc. (CSE: RAIN) (the "Company" or "Rain") is pleased to announce that, further to its news release of February 24, 2025 wherein the Company announced plans to raise up to $500,000 by way of issuance of 6,666,667 common shares, it has closed the final tranche of its non-brokered private placement for gross proceeds of $148,750.05 through the issuance of 1,983,334 common shares at a price of $0.075 per share. All shares issued are subject to a four-month hold period expiring August 4, 2025. As previously disclosed, US$200,000 in proceeds from this financing have been used to mobilize and fund the operational expenses at the pilot plant located in Pennsylvania (the "Pilot"), as announced on February 12, 2025. The remaining proceeds will be used for general working capital purposes, including third-party analysis of results and reporting to be commissioned by the Company stemming from the Pilot along with advancing Rain's ongoing project discussions in Chile and Argentina. The Company paid cash of $10,412.50, or 7%, as a finder's fee with respect to proceeds raised in the final tranche of the private placement. No insiders participated in this private placement. In total the Company raised gross proceeds of $454,450.05 from its anticipated financing of up to $500,000 and issued a total of 6,059,334 common shares. The securities referred to in this news release have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws, unless an exemption from such registration is available. This news release does not constitute an offer for sale of securities for sale, nor a solicitation for offers to buy any securities. Any public offering of securities in the United States must be made by means of a prospectus containing detailed information about the company and management, as well as financial statements. "United States" and "U.S. person" have the respective meanings assigned in Regulation S under the U.S Securities Act. About Us Rain City is an integrated lithium technology and project development company committed to solving the environmental, social, and economic issues associated with extracting lithium from brine. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Benjamin Hill Chief Executive Officer David Shaw Chairperson Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release may include certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. There can be no assurance that proposed operations will be successful or that the anticipated financial, economic or strategic benefits will be realized. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this news release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/247420 SOURCE: Rain City Resources Inc. Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. (TSX:NDM)(NYSE American:NAK) ("Northern Dynasty" or the "Company") announces that it has filed its audited Financial Statements, Management Discussion and Analysis, Annual Information Form and Annual Report on Form 40F for the year ending December 31, 2024. The Company also advises that, consistent with previous years, its audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 40F, contained an audit report from its independent registered public accounting firm with a going concern emphasis of matter. Release of this information is required by Section 610(b) of the NYSE American Company Guide. It does not represent any change or amendment to any of the Company's filings for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. For further details on Northern Dynasty and the Pebble Project, please visit the Company's website at www.northerndynastyminerals.com or contact Investor services at (604) 684-6365 or within North America at 1-800-667-2114. Review Canadian public filings at www.sedarplus.com and US public filings at www.sec.gov. Mark Peters Chief Financial Officer SOURCE: Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES UniDoc Health Corp. (CSE:UDOC) ("UniDoc" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement LIFE offering (the "Offering") for total gross proceeds of up to $500,000, consisting of up to 2,000,000 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.25 per Unit. Each Unit will consist of one common share in the capital of the Company and one-half of one transferrable common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire an additional common share at a price of $0.35 for a period of 24 months following the closing of the Offering. The Company plans to use the proceeds from the Offering for inventory, marketing and investor relations services, working capital, and general corporate purposes. The Units will be offered by way of the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions ("NI 45-106") in the province of British Columbia. Pursuant to NI 45-106, the securities forming part of the Units issued to Canadian resident subscribers under the Offering will not be subject to resale restrictions. There is an offering document related to this Offering that can be accessed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.com and at the Company's website www.unidoctor.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision. The Offering is expected to close on or about April 11, 2025, or such other date that is within 45 days from April 4, 2025, as the Company may agree. The Offering remains subject to certain conditions customary for transactions of this nature, including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the CSE. On Behalf of the Board of Directors, ~Antonio Baldassarre~ Antonio Baldassarre CEO, President & Director UniDoc Health Corp. About UniDoc Health Corp. (CSE:UDOC) UniDoc is developing an eHealth solution which is being designed as a self-contained remote virtual clinic within a private kiosk for patients to undergo full consultations as if they were present in a physician's office. eHealth opens the doors to a large segment of the population challenged by access, experience or understanding of online computer technology. It is the Company's belief that physical accessibility is the key to its business proposition. UniDoc is dedicated to unlocking shareholder value by delivering an excellent product and sophisticated commercial network within an expedited timeframe. The UniDoc team encourages engagement, questions, and interest, so please stay in touch and invite anyone who might be interested in our story to visit our website at www.unidoctor.comand signup to receive the latest information with updates on our activities, events and progress. For further information, please contact: UniDoc Investor Relations Tel: +1 778.383.6731 Email: info@unidoctor.com Matt Chatterton, Director Tel: +1 778.613.2082 Email: matt@unidoctor.com Media Inquiries media@unidoctor.com Certain information contained herein constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to: the Offering, completion of the Offering, the expected closing date of the Offering, and the use of proceeds of the Offering. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "anticipates", "anticipated" "expected" "intends" "will" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different, including receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. Although management of the Company have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: UniDoc Health Corp. AlertMedia, an Austin, TX-based provider of risk intelligence and critical event management solutions, acquired Pyrra Technologies, a Washington, DC-based AI-enabled social media monitoring and intelligence company. The amount of the deal was not disclosed. The combined offering, available later this year, will provide customers with a comprehensive risk intelligence solution. CO-founded in 2021 by Welton Chang (CEO) and Eric Curwin (CTO), Pyrra enables organizations to detect potential threats on both mainstream and fringe social platforms and emerging digital communities. Its platform monitors, analyzes, and categorizes more than 3 billion digital conversations annually, spanning more than 45 distinct social and dark web sources. Using search and filtering capabilities, its customers can then leverage insights to inform a wide range of use cases, from executive protection and event security to brand monitoring and reputational risk. Led by CEO Christopher Kenessey, AlertMedia helps organizations protect their people and businesses through all phases of an emergency. Its threat intelligence, emergency communication, and travel risk management solutions help companies of all sizes identify, respond to, and recover from critical events faster and more confidently. The company supports essential communication for businesses, including JetBlue, Coca-Cola Bottling, and Walmart, in more than 150 countries. FinSMEs 04/04/2025 Singapore, Singapore, April 4th, 2025, Chainwire Yala, the Bitcoin-native liquidity layer enabling cross-ecosystem financial access, today announced the upcoming launch of Yala RealYield, a curated marketplace for real-world asset (RWA) yield opportunities powered by Bitcoin. The new platform will enable BTC holders to earn regulated, risk-adjusted yields by allocating capital into tokenized financial products, including U.S. Treasury bills, private credit, corporate bonds, and real estate-backed assets. Yala RealYield is designed as a unified access point to all of Yalas RWA-related integrations. Rather than operating as a standalone product, it consolidates partnerships and investment opportunities into a structured platform where users can explore, compare, and combine diverse RWA yield sources, each offering distinct risk profiles, durations, and APYs. By enabling global, 24/7 access to high-quality, compliant RWA opportunities, Yala RealYield democratizes investment strategies previously limited to institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals. Real-world assets are rapidly becoming the next frontier in blockchain finance. With RealYield, were offering Bitcoin holders a reliable, transparent way to earn real returns without leaving the decentralized economy, said Kaitai Chang, COO at Yala. This is a foundational step toward integrating BTC with the broader financial system. Key Features of Yala RealYield: Curated RWA Marketplace : Investors can access a wide selection of tokenized real-world yield opportunities, including sovereign debt, real estate, and private creditall with transparent terms regarding risk, maturity, and return. : Investors can access a wide selection of tokenized real-world yield opportunities, including sovereign debt, real estate, and private creditall with transparent terms regarding risk, maturity, and return. Customizable Yield Strategies : Users can mix and match products to create bespoke portfolios tailored to individual preferences. : Users can mix and match products to create bespoke portfolios tailored to individual preferences. Seamless Bitcoin Integration : All investments begin with BTC, ensuring on-chain transparency, verifiability, and security. : All investments begin with BTC, ensuring on-chain transparency, verifiability, and security. Compliance-First Design : Robust legal and regulatory reviews to ensure real-world assets can be securely and legally onboarded. : Robust legal and regulatory reviews to ensure real-world assets can be securely and legally onboarded. Unified Experience : Yala offers a single dashboard for minting, trading, and managing RWA and DeFi positionseliminating the need for fragmented platforms. : Yala offers a single dashboard for minting, trading, and managing RWA and DeFi positionseliminating the need for fragmented platforms. Institutional-Grade Access : Multi-signature custody, on-chain governance, and permissioned access provide a secure foundation for institutional participation. : Multi-signature custody, on-chain governance, and permissioned access provide a secure foundation for institutional participation. Incentivized Participation: Yield farming and staking mechanisms will be introduced to drive engagement across both retail and institutional segments. Personalized Yield Through a Marketplace Model Yala RealYield operates as a marketplace, enabling users to browse and select from a range of yield products across categories such as: Risk Profile From low-risk instruments like U.S. Treasuries to higher-yield private credit vehicles. From low-risk instruments like U.S. Treasuries to higher-yield private credit vehicles. Time Horizon Options range from short-duration liquidity to long-term fixed-income strategies. Options range from short-duration liquidity to long-term fixed-income strategies. Target Returns Each product includes APY benchmarks to help users align returns with personal investment objectives. Yala will also introduce the RWA Vault Allocation Framework, a model that packages diversified real-world assets into unified yield vaults, each with defined allocation weights. This mirrors traditional asset allocation strategies but with the added composability and efficiency of Web3 infrastructure. Strategic Vision and Market Opportunity Yala RealYield addresses a long-standing gap in crypto: unlocking Bitcoins immense liquidity for productive, low-risk yield generation. The launch comes as institutional interest in tokenized real-world assets accelerates, with the total addressable market for RWAs projected to reach trillions of dollars in the coming years. By combining compliance-first infrastructure, seamless BTC access, and a growing roster of RWA partnerships, Yala is well-positioned to become the leading yield gateway for Bitcoin in traditional financial markets. Bitcoin remains the most underutilized source of liquidity in the global financial system, said Kaitai. RealYield allows us to connect that capital to compliant, income-generating products, building a future where BTC earns real-world returns. Looking Ahead Yala plans to expand the RealYield marketplace over the coming months through additional integrations, refined yield packaging, and improved tooling for developers and institutional users. Long-term, Yala will support the use of RWA-backed positions as collateral for stablecoin minting, creating deeper synergies between DeFi and traditional finance. About Yala Yala is building a liquidity layer to unlock Bitcoins untapped yield across DeFi and RWAs. Users can deposit BTC and access seamless liquidity, enabling efficient capital movement and yield opportunities across ecosystems, chains, and protocols. To learn more, users can visit www.yala.org or follow Yala on X at @yalaorg. Contact Yala [email protected] This is a paid press release and is distributed for general information only and is not intended to constitute investment advice. Meryl Streep, the legendary and Oscar-winning actress, is in talks to play the iconic role of Aslan in Greta Gerwigs The Chronicles of Naria reboot for Netflix, according to Nexus Point News. Aslan, the Great Lion, is a prominent character in the CS Lewis series and appears in all seven parts (chronicles). Liam Neeson previously voiced this character in Walden Medias live-action Narnia film trilogy from the 2000s. While the news is yet to be officially confirmed, it has created humongous excitement on social media. Advertisement WHOA! Meryl Streep is set to voice Aslan in Greta Gerwig's 'THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA'?! https://t.co/jVHwor9mcf pic.twitter.com/8Wtt2yT4yp Alex Lobo needs (@GeekLawGrad) March 31, 2025 Taking to X, one netizen wrote, WHOA! Meryl Streep is set to voice Aslan in Greta Gerwigs THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA?! A netizen slammed the production and wrote, Supposedly, they are turning Aslan into a female lion which is a total b******ization of the source material because Aslan is supposed to be an allegory for Jesus, the Lion of Judah. I hate Hollywood so much. They are going to stick a chick in the movie and make it lame and gay. Greta Gerwig, who will be writing and directing the Netflix adaptation of Narnia had said in 2024, Im slightly in the place of terror because I really do have such reverence for Narnia, I loved Narnia so much as a child. As an adult, CS Lewis is a thinker and a writer. Im intimidated by doing this. Its something that feels like a worthy thing to be intimidated by. As a non-British person, I feel a particular sense of wanting to do it correctly its like when Americans do Shakespeare, theres a slight feeling of reverence and as if maybe we should treat it with extra care. It is not our countryman. US President Donald Trump has unveiled the gold card, which provides foreigners with a route to American citizenship. The gold-coloured card displays his official portrait, which is being compared to the stern expression from his mugshot taken at an Atlanta courthouse during his re-election campaign. The words The Trump Card are printed on it, which is a nod to the familiar phrase and a branding reference to his surname read more US President Donald Trump has unveiled his $5 million gold card, which offers foreigners a pathway to American citizenship. While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump introduced the card - and what caught the eye of many was what appeared on its front: a very familiar face. Yes, his own mugshot. ALSO READ | Can Trumps gold card scheme really solve Americas debt problem? The gold-coloured card, roughly the size of a regular credit card, features the image taken at the Atlanta courthouse a photo that has come to define his re-election campaign. Advertisement In this report, we take a closer look at the design of the gold card, what Trump had to say about it, when it will be rolled out, and who will be eligible to get one. What does Trumps $5 million gold card look like? The gold-coloured card features the presidents official portrait, which many have likened to the stern expression seen in his mugshot taken at an Atlanta courthouse during his reelection campaign. Printed are the words The Trump Card, and the name is both a nod to the common phrase and a branding play on his surname. Trump introduced the card - and what caught the eye of many was what appeared on its front. AFP For $5 million, this could be yours, Trump told reporters. That was the first of the cards. You know what that card is? Its the gold card the Trump card. Trump said that he was the first to purchase one, though he added he did not know who the second buyer was. He added that the card will be out in less than two weeks, probably. BREAKING: President Trump Reveals $5 Million Gold Card While Flying Aboard Air Force One pic.twitter.com/TlQVsivmkS The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 3, 2025 Advertisement What is the gold card programme? Trump introduced the concept of the higher-tier gold card in February as an upgrade to the existing EB-5 visa scheme. The EB-5 programme currently permits foreign nationals to apply for a special visa by investing either over a million dollars, or $800,000 in regions facing economic challenges. Were going to be selling a gold card, Trump announced at the time. Were going to be putting a price on that card of about $5 million and thats going to give you green card privileges, plus its going to be a route to citizenship. And wealthy people will be coming into our country by buying this card, he said. ALSO READ | How Trumps $5 million gold card could affect Indians The proposed visa would require a significantly larger financial contribution and is intended to tighten loopholes and curb fraud that Trump claimed has infested the EB-5 system. Like other green cards, the gold card would also serve as a step towards acquiring US citizenship. Advertisement Trump said the visa would attract wealthy individuals who, upon arrival, would likely thrive, invest heavily, pay substantial taxes, and help generate employment across the country. How to purchase the gold card? Who is buying? The gold card was introduced as a new pathway for wealthy investors seeking to settle in the United States, with Donald Trump pitching it as a win-win for both the applicants and the country. While detailed steps to apply for the gold card have not yet been made public, it is expected that buyers will have to comply with regulations set by US immigration authorities once the programme is formally launched. Trump introduced the concept of the gold card as an upgrade to the existing EB-5 visa scheme. Reuters/File Photo Trump has indicated that the cards will likely be made available within less than two weeks, which means that a rollout could be expected around April 1718 or later in the month. As for who is purchasing it, Trump himself claimed to be the first buyer. When asked about the second, he said he was unsure. Given the steep $5 million price tag, the offer is clearly targeted at high-net-worth foreign nationals looking for a direct route to American residency and eventual citizenship. Itll be people with money, Trump said, without referencing job creation or investment conditions tied to the card. Advertisement Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick added that while all applicants will be subject to strict screening, they must be wonderful, world-class global citizens. There appears to be no official cap on the number of gold cards available. Trump has floated the idea of issuing up to 10 million visas under this scheme as a means to ease the U.S. national deficit. Lutnick also claimed that as many as 1,000 gold cards were sold in just one day, with over 37 million people worldwide eligible to apply. ALSO READ | How does Trumps $5 Million gold card visa compare against its global rivals? Can the gold card help the US economy? Donald Trump has claimed that the gold card programme could contribute significantly to the US economy, suggesting that millions of these cards could be sold to help lower the national debt. At present, the US national debt stands at over $36.22 trillion, growing by around $4.87 billion each day, or roughly $202.94 million every hour, according to Forbes. Howard Lutnick estimates that around 37 million people globally could afford the $5 million gold card, forming a sizeable potential market for the scheme. However, the programme essentially puts a price tag on US residency, allowing the ultra-wealthy to access citizenship benefits more quickly, while millions of others face a slower and more uncertain immigration process. Advertisement This has caused concerns about creating a two-tiered system - one for those who can afford to buy their way in, and another for those who cannot. Over 250 passengers, including many Indians, on a Virgin Atlantic flight from London to Mumbai were stranded at Turkeys Diyarbakir Airport (DIY) for over 40 hours. Several have spoken out about their ordeal, with some claiming there was just one toilet for 300 people and that they were forced to sit on the floor without blankets. The flight was scheduled to depart Diyarbakir at 12:00 local time and continue to Mumbai today read more It all began when the aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing due to a technical fault. X/@loveenatandon More than 250 passengers on a Virgin Atlantic flight from London to Mumbai, many of them Indian, were stranded at Turkeys Diyarbakir Airport (DIY) for over 40 hours. The ordeal began when the A350-1000 aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing due to a technical fault. ALSO READ | No water for hours: The harrowing experience of Indians stranded at Kuwait airport for over 13 hours Once on the ground, the aircraft encountered a further technical issue, which was being looked into for hours. Advertisement Since then, several passengers have spoken out about their experience, with some calling it an awful situation. In this story, we explore what led to the emergency landing of the flight, what the passengers went through, and what the airline said in its statement. What happened to the Virgin Atlantic flight? Virgin Atlantic flight VS358, which had departed from London Heathrow for Mumbai, was diverted to Diyarbakr Airport and will continue its journey to Mumbai today. Notably, the diversion was caused by a medical emergency on board, and passengers were stranded at the airport for more than 40 hours. The airline confirmed that after receiving the necessary technical clearances, the flight was supposed to leave from Diyarbakr at 12:00 local time and continue to Mumbai. In a statement, Virgin Atlantic said the flight, which had been en route from London Heathrow to Mumbai on April 2, was cancelled following a medical diversion to Diyarbakr in Turkey. After landing, the A350-1000 aircraft encountered a technical issue, which was later resolved. We are actively exploring all options, including the operation of an alternative aircraft, to ensure customers can reach Mumbai as soon as possible," the airline said in a statement earlier. One toilet for 300 people: The ordeal of stranded passengers in Turkey A stranded passenger told PTI that they had all been forced to sit on the floor, with no blankets provided. Also, there is no vegetarian food available, the passenger added. In an updated statement, Virgin Atlantic said passengers had been given overnight hotel accommodation and refreshments during their time in Turkey. ALSO READ | No food or stay, only chaos: The ordeal of 400 IndiGo passengers are stranded at Istanbul airport One passenger, Hanuman Dass, posted on X that more than 300 Indian and British nationals had been caught in an awful situation. Advertisement He said his own family was among those stranded. Doing nothing to help the people, one toilet for 300 people and held in a confined space for over 15 hours. @VirginAtlantic staff nowhere to be seen. My family is caught up, he wrote. My family along with 250+ passengers have been inhumanely treated by @virginatlantic . Why is this chaos not being covered in the @BBCWorld or global media?? Over 30 hours confined at a military airport in Turkey. In contact with the @ukinturkiye to please more pressure needed pic.twitter.com/TIIHgE07bb Hanuman Dass (@HanumanDassGD) April 3, 2025 Sumit Sheth, another passenger travelling to Mumbai to visit his father, told The Indian Express, We were jolted as the plane hit the runway. Initially, they were told that alternative arrangements would be made and the flight would resume shortly. However, within three hours, they were informed that the aircraft had suffered a technical fault, with damage to its tyres during the landing, according to the report. Advertisement The passengers, which included infants, elderly travellers, pregnant women, and people with medical conditions, faced severe discomfort, IE reported. The terminal reportedly had just two washrooms for around 260 passengers, resulting in long queues and unhygienic conditions, one passenger told the publication. Passengers also alleged that while they were left in the terminal, the flight crew had been given hotel rooms. Received a distress call from a passenger on @VirginAtlantic flight VS358 from #London to #Mumbai , now stranded in #DiyarbakirAirport in #Turkey - apparently a military facility - emergency landing . Its been 20hours without any concrete communication from airline or food or pic.twitter.com/RE4h2JiHYe loveena tandon (@loveenatandon) April 3, 2025 We heard that the crew was given a place to rest, but no one cared about us, even the kids and the elderly. We were treated like prisoners, confined to the terminal, another traveller, who was flying with his eight-month-old baby, told The Indian Express. It has been 24 hours and not a single airline representative has met the passengers. They have barely any food, one toilet amongst 275 pax, phones running out of batteries as they do not have Turkish adapters. There are babies, pregnant women, diabetics and old people in this ordeal, AAP leader Preeti Sharma-Menon posted on X, calling for government intervention. What did the airline and Indian Embassy say? In a statement, a Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said, The safety and security of our customers and crew remains our highest priority, and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused. Subject to receiving the necessary technical approvals, we will continue flight VS1358 to Mumbai from Diyarbakir Airport at 12:00 local time on Friday 4th April. If approvals are not received, we plan instead to provide a bus transfer for customers to an alternative aircraft at another Turkish airport tomorrow to complete our customers journey to Mumbai, the airline said. In the meantime, passengers are being provided with overnight hotel accommodation and refreshments in Turkey, while we work towards a resolution, and we will keep all customers informed as soon as new updates become available, it added. Advertisement Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Turkey also issued an update. In its statement, the embassy said, Update: Embassy has been constantly pursuing the matter relating to the emergency landing of Virgin Atlantic flight from London to Mumbai at Diyarbakir Airport in Turkiye. Update: Embassy has been constantly pursuing the matter relating to the emergency landing of Virgin Atlantic flight from London to Mumbai at Diyarbakir Airport in Turkiye. Thanks to our efforts, all stranded 99 Indian passengers were issued temporary visas yesterday night. IndiaInTurkiye (@IndiaInTurkiye) April 4, 2025 Thanks to our efforts, all stranded 99 Indian passengers were issued temporary visas yesterday night. Hotel accommodation, meals & medical assistance provided by authorities. The Airline is arranging a Flight No. VS1358, which is departing at 12:00 PM from DIY Diyarbakir Airport. Advertisement With inputs from agencies The Jaguar fighter jet crash near Gujarats Jamnagar on Wednesday night, tragically claimed the life of a 28-year-old Indian Air Force pilot, Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav. After the Jaguar aircraft suffered a technical malfunction, the young pilot made the brave decision to steer it away from densely populated areas, saving countless civilian lives read more The Jaguar fighter jet crash on Wednesday night claimed life of Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav. The 28-year-old IAF pilot who belonged to Haryana's Rewari. Image courtesy: X/@abhishekyadav97 A Jaguar fighter jet of the Indian Air Force crashed near Jamnagar, Gujarat, on Wednesday night during a routine training sortie. The crash tragically claimed the life of a young IAF pilot, Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav. In his final moments, the 28-year-old pilot, who belonged to Haryanas Rewari, made a split-second decision that saved countless civilian lives. As the aircraft went down, the pilot heroically steered it away from a densely populated area, preventing a larger disaster. Not only this, he also ensured his co-pilots safety by ejecting him first, before sacrificing his own life. Advertisement Heres what we know about him. Family with a legacy of military service Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav came from a family deeply rooted in military service. His great-grandfather served in the Bengal Engineers under British rule, his grandfather, Raghubir Singh, was in the paramilitary forces, and his father, Sushil Kumar, also served in the Indian Air Force before moving to LIC. With Siddharth joining the Air Force, he became the fourth generation in his family to serve the nation, ANI reported. After clearing the NDA exam in 2016, Siddharth underwent three years of intense training at Punes National Defence Academy before earning his wings as a fighter pilot. After two years of service, he was promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant. Siddharth underwent three years of intense training at Punes National Defence Academy before becoming a fighter pilot. His family had a deeply rooted history in military service. Image courtesy: X/@abhishekyadav97 He was a brilliant student. We had always been proud of him My father and grandfather were in the army. I was also in the Air Force. I am very proud of him; he lost his life while saving a life But it is also a matter of grief as he was my only son, his father said. Siddharth is survived by his father, mother Sushila Devi, and younger sister Khushi. Also read: IAF chief says India needs to produce 30-40 fighter aircraft to replace ageing fleet. Why he sounded an alarm bell Siddharth got engaged days before the crash Yadavs father revealed that just ten days before the crash, on March 23, Siddharth had gotten engaged to his fiancee from Delhi. His family, who hails from Bhalkhi-Majra village in Rewari, was in the middle of wedding preparations, looking forward to his marriage on November 2. He had recently returned to duty on March 31 after spending time with his family in Rewari. They received the devastating news from the commanding air officer around 11 pm. The officer informed him that one pilot had been rescued, but Siddharth had lost his life in the crash. #WATCH | Rewri, Haryana | Air Force pilot Siddharth Yadav lost his life in a Jaguar fighter aircraft crash late last night in Jamnagar. His father Sushil Yadav says, "The commanding air officer called last night at around 11 am and informed us about the incident that an aircraft pic.twitter.com/UXxfHHn0IK ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2025 Advertisement Despite the immense grief, his father takes solace in his sons bravery. Siddharth sacrificed his life to save the lives of others. We are proud of him, he said. The IAF, in a statement, deeply regretted the loss of life and said it stands firmly with the bereaved family. It also ordered a Court of Inquiry to verify the cause of the accident. How Siddharths heroic decision in the final moments saved lives According to a statement from the IAF, the two-seater Jaguar fighter jet took off from Jamnagar Airfield on Wednesday night for a routine night training mission. The pilots noticed a technical malfunction when flying mid-air. Despite their best efforts to stabilise the aircraft and attempt a safe landing, it became evident that a crash was unavoidable. The Jaguar fighter jet took off from Jamnagar Airfield on Wednesday night for a routine night training mission. Shortly after takeoff, the pilots noticed a technical malfunction mid-air. Soon, it became evident that a crash was unavoidable. PTI In his final moments, Siddharth ejected his fellow pilot, Manoj Kumar Singh, from the aircraft to save his life and steered the plane away from a densely populated area, ultimately guiding it into an open field near Suvarda village, about 12 km from Jamnagar city. Advertisement Tragically, the young pilot lost his life in the crash, but his heroic actions saved many. His co-pilot, Manoj Kumar Singh, survived with a fractured leg and is currently undergoing treatment, Dr Deepak Tiwari, Superintendent of Guru Gobind Singh Government Hospital, confirmed. Siddharths body is expected to reach Rewari on Friday morning, His last rites will be performed in his ancestral village, Bhalaki-Majra, with full military honours. With input from agencies The German investigators, in coordination with pan-European police agency Europol, led a major operation to dismantle a notorious dark web streaming platform called Kidflix. The platform, launched in 2021, had grown into one of the largest paedophile platforms in the world, uploading an average of 3.5 new videos of child abuse every hour read more Kidflix was a notorious dark web platform that had grown into one of the largest paedophile platforms in the world. Image for Representation. Pixabay 1.8 million (18 lakh) users, 91,000 child abuse videos & a network spanning over 35 countries. This was Kidflixa notorious dark web platform that had grown into one of the largest paedophile platforms in the world. But its reign has now come to an end, as German investigators, in coordination with pan-European police agency Europol, led a major operation to dismantle the streaming service. Dubbed Operation Stream, the crackdown against Kidlfix is one of the biggest blows against child pornography in recent years, Guido Limmer, deputy head of the Bavarian criminal police, said while speaking to AFP. Advertisement So what was Kidflix all about? How did authorities bust the network? Heres everything we know so far. The dark reality of Kidflix Kidflix was a dark web streaming platform that provided access to thousands of videos depicting extreme child sexual abuseincluding crimes against very young children. Launched in 2021 by a cybercriminal who made a huge profit from it, the platform quickly became one of the most popular hubs for paedophiles, according to Europol. Over the past three years, the site amassed around 1.8 million users worldwide. It hosted approximately 91,000 unique videos, amounting to nearly 6,288 hours of explicit contentall shared on a highly profitable network. And how did it make money? Unlike other known platforms of this kind, Kidflix not only enabled users to download child sexual abuse material but also to stream video files. Users made payments using cryptocurrencies, which were subsequently converted into tokens, Europol said. Users could also earn tokens by uploading material, verifying titles and descriptions and assigning categories to videos, it added. Before authorities took it down on March 11, 2025, Kidflix was expanding at an alarming rate. On average, 3.5 new videos were being uploaded every hour. Also read: How Operation Stream busted Kidflix The takedown of Kidflix was the result of a massive international investigation, spearheaded by German law enforcement with support from Europol. A total of 36 countries, including Britain, joined forces to dismantle the platform. In March, police conducted coordinated raids across 31 nations in what Europols Guido Limmer described as the largest operation ever of its kind. So far, authorities have arrested 79 individuals linked to Kidflix, while more than 1,400 suspects have been identified. Among those detained were not only consumers of the illegal content but also direct perpetrators of abuse. Advertisement In one particularly disturbing case, a 36-year-old man was arrested for searching child abuse images on the platform and then offering his young son for games. The man was arrested, while the boy was sent to child protection services. In another case, investigators tracked down a serial abuser operating from the United States. Senior prosecutor Thomas Goger revealed that most of the identified suspects were between 20 and 40 years old, with an average age of 31. The youngest was born in 2006, while the oldest was in their seventies. Many had been active on the darknet for years. While many people believe they can hide in these corners of the dark web, the online world is not anonymous, said Det. Erik Bjarnason of the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams Internet Child Exploitation unit, speaking to Global News. In one joint raid by German and Dutch authorities, they seized a hard drive containing a staggering 72,000 videos of child sexual abuse. Advertisement As part of the crackdown, German authorities have also intervened 96 times to protect children from ongoing abuse. In 12 cases, they managed to stop active exploitation. In total, 39 children were safeguarded during the investigation. Authorities remain committed to following leads, bringing more offenders to justice, and dismantling similar networks worldwide. With input from agencies Dr. M. Evelyn Fields with the Legacy Award from the American Association of Blacks in Higher Education. ORANGEBURG, S.C. South Carolina State Universitys Dr. M. Evelyn Fields was honored with the Legacy Award at the American Association of Blacks in Higher Education (AABHE) National Conference in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, March 30. Fields is dean of SC States College of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences and professor of early childhood education. She was honored for her distinguished leadership and her enduring commitment to higher education. She has served on the AABHEs board for the past 15 years, including a term as national president from 2017-2019 and her current role as parliamentarian. As does AABHE, Fields believes in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, that empowers professionals in higher education to excel as experts, strategically navigate career opportunities and emerge as future leaders in the field." Recognizing the need, Fields encouraged the audience of higher education professionals -- if they had not -- to spend some time working at or with a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), where they will find their culture and the reverence of the academy. Fields has served the state of South Carolina for over 39 years. Over the past 25 years, Fields has served in numerous roles at SC State. She has served as director of Head Start Education, program coordinator of child development, chair of the Department of Teacher Education and interim associate provost for faculty and programs. Fields also chaired the SC State Graduate Studies Council and was the 2017 SC State Professor of the Year. In professional service, Fields has served as president of the South Carolina Association for the Education of Young Children and President of the SC Conference of University Professors. Fields also serves as vice chair of the South Carolina Deans Alliance. Over the years, Fields has secured and managed millions of dollars in grant funding and continues to make contributions in her research area of expertise in teacher education. She earned her Master of Education and Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina in early childhood education. Self-styled godman Nithyananda, who faces accusations of abducting children, sexual assault, and abuse, left India in 2019 and has not returned since. Over time, he made massive claims about establishing the United States of Kailasa the worlds first sovereign nation for Hindus. Now, a bombshell report claims that representatives of this country were involved in land trafficking by brokering 1,000-year leases with Indigenous communities in Bolivia read more Accused of abducting children, sexual assault, and abuse, self-styled godman Nithyananda left India in 2019 and has not returned since. But that is not all. He also claimed to have established a new nation called Kailasa . Delegates representing this so-called country even turned up at a United Nations event in 2023 and posed for photographs with several world leaders. ALSO READ | How Kailasa, the fictional nation of self-styled godman Nithyananda, keeps causing trouble STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, a new bombshell report now claims that the United States of Kailasa may have finally hit a wall. So, what exactly happened? The report points to recent developments in Bolivia that appear to have brought the groups shady dealings into the spotlight. In this report, we take a closer look at what happened in Bolivia, what we have learnt so far about Nithyanandas make-believe nation, and where the controversial godman is now. Did Nithyananda try to take over Bolivia? Representatives of Kailasa describe themselves as emissaries of the worlds first sovereign nation for Hindus, with its own passports and a cosmic constitution. They have also claimed to have created a currency made of sacred gold, overseen by a so-called reserve bank. Nithyananda, born Arunachalam Rajasekaran, is originally from Tamil Nadu. X/@SriNithyananda However, these claims appear to have come to an end. Last week, Bolivian authorities said they had detained 20 people linked to Kailasa. They were accused of land trafficking after brokering 1,000-year leases with Indigenous communities for large sections of the Amazon, according to The New York Times. The agreements were declared null and void, and those linked to Kailasa were deported - not to their imaginary country, but to their actual countries of origin, including India, the United States, Sweden, and China. In a statement, Bolivias Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, Bolivia does not maintain diplomatic relations with the alleged nation United States of Kailasa. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The nation said that members of the group allegedly attempted to seize land belonging to Indigenous communities in Bolivia. Bolivias Immigration Director, Katherine Calderon, said during a press conference, This sect entered Bolivia as tourists, arriving at different times through various entry points. Some individuals had been in Bolivia since November 2024, while the majority entered in January 2025. Reports suggest that the deportation came after an investigation by the Bolivian newspaper El Deber, which was published on March 16. It revealed that three Indigenous groups had signed lease agreements with Kailasa for approximately 4.8 lakh hectares of public land. Pedro Guasico, a leader of the Baure, one of the affected Indigenous groups, told The New York Times that contact with Kailasa representatives began in 2024 when they offered assistance during forest fires. They reportedly negotiated for access to land three times the size of New Delhi, and the Baure agreed to a 25-year lease in exchange for an annual payment of nearly $200,000. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Bolivias Minister of Government, Eduardo Del Castillo Del Carpio, said that Nithyanandas fictional nation signed 1,000-year lease agreements with the Indigenous communities of Baure, Cayuba, and Esse Eha. According to The News Minute, the agreement granted Kailasa full autonomy and exclusive rights to all resources within the leased territory. As per the agreement, the United States of Kailasa will have all rights to resources within the land and is guaranteed full autonomy with the territory. As per the agreement the fictitious United States of Kailasa agreed to pay $108,000 per year, he said. The story of Kailasa It all began in 2019 when the self-proclaimed godman fled India after facing accusations of rape, torture, and child abuse. His whereabouts after leaving India remain unknown. A few years later, he resurfaced with a bold claim - he had established the United States of Kailasa, which he described as a revival of ancient Hindu kingdoms. The website of this so-called nation, where free e-citizenship is available at the click of a button, claimed its sovereign territory was in the Andean region. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Kailasa claims to be dedicated to reviving a temple-based way of life, providing universal free healthcare and education, promoting vegetarianism and gender equality, and addressing global warming. It also aims to incorporate yoga, meditation, and the gurukul education system into the daily lives of its citizens, according to its website. The nation lists English, Sanskrit, and Tamil as its official languages, while its professed religion is Sanatana Hindu Dharma. In 2023, representatives of Kailasa attended a United Nations meeting , where they demanded protection for the supreme pontiff of Hinduism. The gathering, organised in Geneva by the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR), featured a video of one representative, a woman in a saree and turban, praising her countrys sustainable development efforts. ALSO READ | Hathras stampede: The life and crimes of Bhole Baba, the preacher who held the satsang Who and where is Nithyananda? Nithyananda, born Arunachalam Rajasekaran, is originally from Tamil Nadu. He gained attention in the early 2000s after establishing an ashram near Bengaluru. Over time, he expanded his influence, building a vast network of ashrams across India and in cities around the world. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Known for making grand claims, he linked himself to ancient religious and royal lineages. He also claimed to possess miraculous abilities, such as enabling the blind to see through a third eye and delaying the sunrise by 40 minutes. Nithyananda claims to have established the United States of Kailasa. X/@SriNithyananda He has even professed to have control over reincarnation, promising billionaires that his guidance would ensure they are not born into poverty in their next life. In 2010, he made headlines after a video of him in a compromising position with an actress went viral. He was later arrested and charged with rape. In a separate case, he was arrested again and charge-sheeted on similar charges. As allegations of rape and sexual assault mounted and authorities pursued legal action against him, Nithyananda dismissed the cases as part of an anti-Hindu conspiracy, claiming they were an attempt to grab my land. Recently, on April 1, his representatives issued a statement rejecting reports of his death. The statement, released by Kailasa, insisted that Nithyananda is alive, safe, and active, The News Minute reported. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Speculation about his death surfaced after his nephew, Sundereshwar, allegedly claimed that Nithyananda had passed away. President Yoon Suk Yeol was dismissed by South Koreas Constitutional Court for his December 3 martial law declaration, which deployed troops to parliament. All eight justices upheld the impeachment motion. A new presidential election must be held within 60 days. Yoon faces ongoing rebellion charges, and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will serve as acting president until a successor is elected read more Demonstrators stand in front of a banner with the photograph of Yoon Suk Yeol as people wait for the Constitutional Court ruling on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, near his residence in Seoul, South Korea, April 4, 2025. File Image/Reuters South Koreas Constitutional Court unanimously voted on Friday to dismiss President Yoon Suk Yeol from office, marking the nations most severe political crisis in decades. The courts decision upholds the National Assemblys impeachment motion from December, triggered by Yoons unprecedented declaration of martial law. With this ruling, South Korea is now heading toward a snap presidential election that must be held within 60 days. Why was Yoon impeached? The political crisis began on December 3, when Yoon declared martial law and deployed troops to the National Assembly. Lawmakers defied the heavy military presence to enter parliament and voted unanimously to lift martial law within hours. Days later, on December 14, the opposition-controlled legislature formally impeached him. Advertisement The Constitutional Court rejected Yoons defence that his actions were a justified warning against the oppositions misuse of legislative power. Instead, Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae stated Yoons actions represented a serious challenge to democracy, and said he committed a grave betrayal of the peoples trust who are the sovereign members of the democratic republic. The court stated that the president lacks constitutional authority to suspend the legislature, even under martial law. According to the court, Yoon mobilised military and police forces to obstruct the exercise of legislative authority, thereby violating the constitution and his presidential oath. What happens next? With the courts ruling, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will continue as acting president until a new leader is elected and inaugurated. The National Election Commission now has 60 days to organise a nationwide vote, making it one of the most intense and divisive elections since South Koreas democratic transition in the 1980s. People celebrate after President Yoon Suk Yeols impeachment was accepted, near the Constitutional Court in Seoul, South Korea, April 4, 2025. Reuters Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is expected to convene an emergency meeting with the Bank of Korea governor and financial regulators to ensure economic stability. The last time South Korea went through such a transition was in 2017, following the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye. Then, a snap election was held within two months, and a new president took office the day after the results were announced. What does this mean for Yoon? Yoon is now facing a criminal trial for rebellion, a charge that carries a potential sentence of life imprisonment or even death, though no one has been executed in South Korea in decades. The 64-year-old former prosecutor had been arrested in January but was released in March after the court revoked his arrest warrant. Despite the legal proceedings, Yoon appears far from retreating from public life. He is expected to rally his conservative base, attempt to influence the People Power Partys leadership race, and possibly support a loyalist candidate in the upcoming election. Advertisement His goal may be to help elect a conservative successor who could pardon him if convicted. Who may be the next South Korean president? The upcoming election is expected to be highly polarised, with the two most prominent figures both facing legal troubles. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party, who narrowly lost to Yoon in 2022, is currently the frontrunner in most opinion polls. Lee was one of the lawmakers who helped overturn Yoons martial law decree in December. However, he too faces multiple court cases, including bribery and allegations tied to a $1-billion property development scandal. Other potential contenders include: Han Dong-hoon , the former People Power Party leader who opposed Yoons martial law order and is popular among moderate conservatives. Kim Moon-soo , the current labour minister, who has criticised Yoons impeachment but is not expected to run. Oh Se-hoon , the mayor of Seoul and a conservative advocate for South Korean nuclear armament. Hong Joon-pyo , mayor of Daegu and a five-term lawmaker preparing for a potential presidential bid. Kim Dong-yeon, Gyeonggi Provinces governor, aligned with the opposition and a vocal supporter of strong US-Korea ties. Regardless of who wins, the next president will face major challenges from mending domestic divisions and navigating a shaky economy to handling escalating tensions with North Korea, Chinas diplomatic assertiveness and US President Donald Trumps foreign policy shifts. Will this end the crisis? Experts are warning that Yoons removal may not immediately stabilise the country. His core supporters remain active, with past protests turning violent. Far-right protesters react after hearing that President Yoon Suk Yeols impeachment was accepted, near his residence in Seoul, South Korea, April 4, 2025. Reuters Some experts, such as Kim Tae-hyung of Soongsil University, told AP that the deepening distrust in democratic institutions could spiral: If people start refusing to accept any election outcome that is unfavourable to them, the other side will start doing the same trust in democracy will completely collapse. Still, Professor Leif-Eric Easley of Ewha University sees the courts ruling as a step toward clarity, telling Reuters, The Constitutional Courts unanimous ruling has removed a major source of uncertainty. And not a moment too soon, given how the next administration in Seoul must navigate North Koreas military threats, Chinas diplomatic pressure, and Trumps trade tariffs. Advertisement With inputs from agencies US President Donald Trump has hinted at serving a third term in public office. In the long-standing history of the country, there was just one president who served three terms, Franklin D Roosevelt. But it is not possible now, as the 22nd Amendment does not allow American presidents to serve more than two terms read more The reason to pass the 22nd amendment was was to make sure that the president did not behave like a king. File iamge/AP Only one person, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, has ever served more than two terms as president of the United States. This is for two reasons. First, prior to Roosevelts election to a third term in 1940 there was a longstanding American tradition that presidents not serve more than two terms. This tradition was established by the decisions of early presidents such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison not to seek a third term. This tradition was later adopted by other presidents. Advertisement Second, after Roosevelt died in office in 1945 during his fourth term, Congress and the people of the United States decided to turn the long-standing tradition that presidents should not serve more than two terms into a part of constitutional law. This was done through the passage and ratification of the 22nd Amendment, which became part of the US Constitution in 1951. Only after the death of President Franklin Roosevelt, who died in 1945 in his fourth term and whose casket is seen here, did the U.S. codify the two-term limit on presidents. AP photo Intent is clear The key provision of the 22nd Amendment reads as follows: 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. The intent is clear. No one is supposed to serve more than two full terms as president. The only way someone can serve more than two terms is if they served less than two years in a previous term in which they werent elected president. Heres an example: If a vice president becomes president during the final year of a term because the president died, that vice president could still run for two terms. But that exception is still meant to bar anyone from serving more than a total of 10 years as president. It is worth understanding why the two-term tradition was considered so important that it was turned into constitutional law the first time it was violated. Starting the tradition Commentators often cite George Washingtons decision not to seek a third term as president as establishing the two-term tradition. Political scientist and term limit scholar Michael Korzi gives a lot more credit to the nations third president, Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson was outspoken in favor of the two-term tradition. As Korzi notes, this was, in part, because Jefferson saw little distinction between a long-serving executive in an elective position and a hereditary monarch. In other words, a president without term limits is too much like a king. Advertisement Jefferson saw a president who was willing to break the two-term tradition as power hungry, and he hoped that the American people would not elect such a president. This led him to write in his autobiography in 1821 that should a President consent to be a candidate for a 3d. election, I trust he would be rejected on this demonstration of ambitious views. Jefferson also worried that without term limits, presidents would stay in office too long into their old age and after they had lost their ability to govern effectively. This led him to write that without term limits, there was a danger that the indulgence and attachments of the people will keep a man in the chair after he becomes a dotard. Subsequently, presidents tended to abide by the two-term tradition. And in the few cases where presidents decided to seek a third term, their own parties would not give them the nomination. Advertisement That remained true until Roosevelt ran for, and won, both a third and a fourth term as president during World War II. The 22nd Amendment Roosevelts violation of the two-term tradition prompted Congress and the states to turn the tradition into a formal matter of constitutional law. A major concern motivating the amendment was the same one that motivated Jefferson: to prevent a president from becoming a king. Multiple members of Congress identified the same concern during congressional sessions in the 1940s. Sen. Chapman Revercomb from West Virginia stated that power given to a president without term limits would be a definite step in the direction of autocracy, regardless of the name given the office, whether it be president, king, dictator, emperor, or whatever title the office may carry. Similarly, Rep. Edward McCowen from Ohio said that the 22nd Amendment would be a great step toward preventing a dictatorship or some totalitarian form of government from arising. And Rep. John Jennings Jr. from Tennessee stated that only by adoption of the 22nd Amendment can the people be assured that we shall never have a dictator in this land. Advertisement Congress passed the 22nd Amendment on March 21, 1947. It took less than four years for the necessary three-fourths of the states to ratify the amendment, which became law on Feb. 27, 1951. Donald Trump has often talked about getting a third term. File image/AP Tyrants and term limit violations In the 1980s, political scientist Juan Linz identified that presidential systems are less stable than other forms of democracy, such as parliamentary systems. The difference seems to be that presidential systems concentrate more power in the hands of a single person, the president. This makes it easier to remove the checks and balances that democracies depend on. As scholars have noted, violation of presidential term limits and other methods of increasing executive power are a common form of democratic backsliding state-led debilitation or elimination of the political institutions that sustain a democracy. Law professor Mila Versteeg and her colleagues have shown that in recent years presidents around the globe have used various tactics to try to violate presidential term limits. These tactics include trying to amend their countrys constitution, trying to get the courts to reinterpret the constitution, finding a replacement leader who the former president can control once out of office and attempting to delay elections. They note that most of the time when a presidents attempt to violate term limits fails it is because the attempt encountered widespread popular resistance. They conclude that this finding implies that broad resistance movements may be the best means to prevent violation of presidential term limits. Advertisement Mark Satta, Associate Professor of Philosophy and Law, Wayne State University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. US President Donald Trumps sweeping tariffs on Apples biggest production and supplier hubs in Asia, including China, India and Vietnam, could hurt the tech giant. The iPhone maker is already feeling the sting after it lost nearly $300 billion in market value following the White Houses announcement. Heres how this could impact consumers read more United States President Donald Trumps tariffs have spared no one. One of the worst hit by his new tariff plan was Apple whose shares plunged more than 9 per cent on Thursday (April 3). The American tech giant reportedly lost $300 billion in market value following Trumps announcement on Wednesday. The US has imposed new tariff rates on over 180 countries, including those that are major manufacturing hubs for Apple. As tariffs put pressure on the iPhone maker, will your favourite phones become costlier? Advertisement Lets take a closer look. How Trumps tariffs affect Apple US President Donald Trump has announced reciprocal tariffs on Apples biggest production and supplier hubs in Asia, including China, India, and Vietnam. China, which is the hardest hit with a 54 per cent tariff, makes about 90 per cent of the about 200 million (20 crore) iPhones that Apple sells around the world every year, reported New York Times (NYT). According to estimates from Evercore ISI, China accounts for Apples 80 per cent manufacturing capacity. It projects that 55 per cent of Apples Mac products and 80 per cent of iPads are assembled in the Asian country, reported CNBC. In recent years, Apple has diversified its supply chain beyond China to countries like India and Vietnam. Both are facing high import taxes 26 per cent and 46 per cent, respectively. Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal had said in 2023 that Apple is aiming to manufacture 25 per cent of all of its iPhones in India. As per CNBC, Bernstein analysts estimate Apple could be producing 15-20 per cent of all iPhones in India by the end of 2025. Apple has also increased its production in Vietnam in recent years. Around 20 per cent of iPad manufacturing and 90 per cent of the assembly of Apples wearable products like the Apple Watch happens in Vietnam, says Evercore ISI. Advertisement Will iPhones prices skyrocket? With Trump imposing high tariffs on Apples key manufacturing hubs, the iPhone maker is starting to feel the heat. According to Financial Times, the high import duties will impact every model of iPhone, iPad, Mac and other items sold by Apple. The US tech giant has a tough choice now: it can either bear the additional costs itself or charge it from consumers. As per The Guardian, Ben Barringer, global technology analyst at Quilter Cheviot, said, Apple makes 90 per cent of its products in China, with 10 per cent in other Asian countries such as Vietnam and India. These countries are facing the harshest tariffs, so we can expect iPhones and Apple Watches to go up in price, while hitting the profits of the company significantly. Switching production to the US is neither easy, nor cheap. If Apple passes the extra expenses to consumers, its products like iPhones could see hikes of 30-40 per cent, as per a Reuters report. Counterpoint Research co-founder Neil Shah says Apple would have to increase the prices of its products by at least 30 per cent on average to counteract import duties. Apple iPhone 16 smartphones are displayed at a store in London, Britain, October 6, 2024. File Photo/Reuters Analysts at Rosenblatt Securities predict that rates of iPhones could rise by 43 per cent. For iPhone 16, which costs $799 (about Rs 68,000) in the US, consumers may have to pay $1,142 (Rs 97,200). Advertisement The price of the expensive iPhone 16 Pro Max, which currently costs $1599 (Rs 136,100), could jump to nearly $2300 (Rs 195,766). After a 43 per cent price hike, the cheaper iPhone 16e could retail at $856 (Rs 73,000). It is presently priced at $599 (Rs 51,000). However, consumers may not have to worry too much, at least right now. Angelo Zino, equity analyst at CFRA Research, told Reuters that it would be difficult for Apple to transfer more than 5-10 per cent of the added cost to consumers. We expect Apple to hold off on any major increases on phones until this fall when its iPhone 17 is set to launch, as it is typically how it handles planned price hikes. Can Apple save itself from tariff impact? When Trump imposed high taxes on Chinese imports during his first term at the White House, Apple was able to secure exemptions on several of its products. The sale of iPhones, iPads and Apple Watches accounts for three-quarters of Apples roughly $400 billion in annual revenue, reported NYT. In February, the iPhone maker promised to invest $500 billion in the US, including opening a new facility manufacturing servers for artificial intelligence (AI) in Texas. Advertisement However, so far, the White House has not granted any exemption to the tech giant from the new tariffs. Apple would be hoping to change that. NYT reported citing Morgan Stanley that Apple is staring at $8.5 billion in increased costs annually from import taxes on iPhones and other devices from China. If Apple pays the increased costs itself, it will reduce its revenue. Increasing the price of its products could also backfire as the US company would risk affecting demand. As per BBC, the global investment bank Citi said: If Apple cannot get exempted this time and assuming Apple gets hit by the accumulative 54 per cent China tariffs and does not pass it through, we estimate about 9 per cent negative impact to the companys total gross margin. Jefferies analysts say Apple could face a 14 per cent fall in its net profit this year unless it hiked its prices to offset the fees, reported Financial Times. They said in a note on Thursday, Even if Apple is exempted from the current tariffs, it will need to accelerate its supply chain diversification efforts, and thus needs to pay its suppliers better. Advertisement With inputs from agencies Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the approval of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 as a watershed moment, saying it will promote transparency and empower marginalised communities. He emphasised that the reforms will ensure socio-economic justice and protect the rights of those historically denied a voice. read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 as a watershed moment that will bring socio-economic justice and transparency while empowering marginalised communities. The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a major step towards transparency and inclusive growth. This will particularly benefit those who have long been denied voice and opportunity, PM Modi posted on X. Advertisement Expressing gratitude to all MPs who contributed to shaping the bills, he emphasised the importance of debate and dialogue in the legislative process. Thanks to all Members of Parliament who participated in discussions and shared their perspectives. Special appreciation also to those who sent valuable inputs to the Parliamentary committee. Once again, the significance of extensive debate has been reaffirmed, he added. The Prime Minister stated that the amendments would protect peoples rights, addressing the long-standing lack of transparency and accountability in the Waqf system, which had affected Muslim women and Pasmanda Muslims. For decades, the Waqf system lacked transparency and accountability, harming the interests of poor Muslims, particularly women and Pasmanda Muslims. These new laws will improve transparency and safeguard rights, he said. He also reaffirmed the governments commitment to social justice and dignity for every citizen. We are entering an era where the framework will be more modern and sensitive to social justice. Our priority remains ensuring dignity for all citizens, building a stronger, more inclusive, and compassionate India, Modi added. Opposition criticism Congress and other opposition parties criticised the bill, with Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge accusing the government of taking a negative stand. It is their interpretation. We presented our views, but they are pushing their own agenda, Kharge told reporters. Congress MP Ranjeet Ranjan called the bill unfortunate, alleging that the amendments target a particular community. This bill is not in the best interests of the nation or the Constitution. It is not about helping people but about targeting a community, Ranjan said. Advertisement The bills passage The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 was passed in Parliament early Friday morning after a heated debate. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced the vote count: Ayes - 128, Noes - 95, Absent - 0, declaring the bill passed. The House sat beyond midnight to complete the process. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the bill, stating that opposition parties were misleading people. This bill will benefit crores of people from the Muslim community, Rijiju said while responding to a 12-hour debate in Rajya Sabha. He also announced that the bill would be renamed UMEED (Unified Waqf Management Empowerment Efficiency and Development) Bill. The Lok Sabha had passed the bill past midnight on Wednesday after incorporating recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which reviewed the legislation introduced last August. The bill seeks to amend the 1995 Waqf Act to improve the administration and management of Waqf properties. It aims to overcome previous shortcomings, enhance Waqf board efficiency, streamline the registration process, and integrate technology for better management. Indias sea borders are poised for expansion as the government adopts modern geodetic standards aligning with global maritime norms read more An Indian fisherman returns at sunset after fishing in the Arabian Sea in Thiruvananthapuram. AP Indias maritime boundary may soon expand as the government plans to update how it measures its coastline. Right now, India uses the Everest Ellipsoid system, which is outdated and not widely accepted worldwide. The government is considering switching to the World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84), a globally recognised standard. This change could extend Indias maritime borders by a few metres to several hundred metres, affecting territorial waters and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ). Advertisement Shift to WGS84 and its implications According to The Economic Times, India has long used the Everest Ellipsoid system to define its shoreline, but this method lacks accuracy and global recognition. To address these issues, the government is considering switching to the WGS84 system, which is widely accepted by international organisations and used in maritime boundary disputes. This change will improve Indias maritime governance and strengthen its position in global negotiations on sea boundaries. Switching to WGS84 will modify Indias baseline, the reference point for measuring maritime zones. This will impact territorial waters (12 nautical miles from the baseline) and the EEZ (200 nautical miles). For example, in the Sir Mouth area near Sir Creek, the Indian coastline could shift about 57 metres northwest, slightly increasing Indias maritime zone and expanding its rights over marine resources. Impact on maritime borders and neighbouring nations The change in baseline calculations will have significant implications for Indias maritime boundaries with neighbouring countries. The impact will be particularly notable towards Bangladesh, where adjustments in baselines will lead to changes in territorial waters. A lesser but still notable effect may be felt along the border with Pakistan. According to The Economic Times, it is worth noting that the 2014 Permanent Court of Arbitration tribunal, which settled the maritime boundary dispute between Bangladesh and India, used the WGS84 datum. This precedent further validates the reliability and international acceptability of the system India is now considering. Governments official process and gazette notification Advertisement As part of the transition to the new system, India will update its official maritime boundary records. This includes revising and notifying 133 geographic coordinates used for baseline calculations. The Ministry of External Affairs, in coordination with other relevant agencies, is spearheading this process to ensure seamless integration with global standards. Once the new coordinates are formally gazetted, Indias maritime boundaries will officially expand, reinforcing the nations sovereign rights over additional marine resources. Indias expanding coastline: A parallel development While India is working on redefining its maritime baselines, the countrys coastline itself has been expanding significantly over the past five decades. A recent report by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) revealed that Indias coastline has grown from 7,516 km in 1970 to 11,098 km in 2023-24a 47.6 per cent increase. Gujarat contributed the most to this expansion, with its coastline nearly doubling from 1,214 km to 2,340 km. Bengal recorded the highest percentage increase, with its shoreline growing from 157 km to 721 km, a staggering 357 per cent rise. Advertisement According to The Times of India, other states such as Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have also seen substantial revisions in their coastline lengths due to the adoption of new measurement methodologies that account for complex coastal formations such as bays, estuaries and inlets. Role of scientific advancements The recalibration of Indias coastline has been made possible by advancements in geospatial technology and hydrographic survey techniques. Unlike older methods that relied on straight-line distance measurements, the updated approach incorporates precise mapping of dynamic and heterogeneous coastal features. The National Maritime Security Coordinator has played a critical role in implementing these scientific methodologies, ensuring that Indias maritime parameters reflect the true extent of its coastal geography. The data cited in the MHA report are still under review, but the ongoing updates in coastal measurements align with Indias broader objective of improving maritime governance. These revisions will have significant implications for economic activities, environmental management and national security planning. Advertisement Strategic implications for Indias maritime economy Indias maritime economy is heavily influenced by the extent of its territorial waters and EEZ. The planned expansion of maritime boundaries will enhance Indias sovereign rights over additional sea areas providing opportunities for economic activities such as fishing, offshore energy exploration and maritime trade. The Times of India reported that several coastal states have been actively developing their maritime infrastructure in anticipation of increased economic opportunities. Andhra Pradesh, for instance, has been developing new ports such as Ramayapatnam, Krishnapatnam and Kakinada Gateway. These developments are expected to boost employment, industrialisation and urbanisation, reinforcing Indias position as a major maritime power. Expanding Indias maritime borders will have profound security implications. A well-defined baseline is crucial for enforcing maritime laws, protecting national interests and deterring unauthorised incursions into Indian waters. With clear and internationally recognised maritime boundaries, India will be in a stronger position to manage challenges such as illegal fishing, piracy and territorial disputes. Advertisement Additionally, a standardised baseline using WGS84 will enhance Indias ability to engage in diplomatic negotiations and legal proceedings related to maritime sovereignty. By aligning its geospatial framework with international norms, India strengthens its strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific region, where maritime disputes are a persistent challenge. Greater maritime sovereignty Indias decision to update its baseline system represents a major step towards strengthening its maritime sovereignty. The shift from the Everest Ellipsoid system to WGS84 will bring Indias maritime boundaries in line with global standards, expanding territorial waters and EEZ by a few metres to several hundred metres. This move is not just about territorial expansion but also about enhancing Indias geospatial accuracy, legal standing and strategic capabilities in the maritime domain. As India continues to modernise its maritime governance, the impact will be felt across multiple sectors from economic development to national security. With a recalibrated coastline and a scientifically refined maritime baseline, India is poised to assert itself as a leading maritime power in the 21st century. Advertisement In this photo released by Thailand's Foreign Affairs Ministry, from left to right Nepal Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli, India Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Bhutan Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Myanmar's military leader Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, Sri Lanka Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, pose for a photograph during the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (6 th BIMSTEC) summit in Bangkok on April 4, 2025. AP In 2019, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi took oath for the second time, he invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to the ceremony as special guests. At that time, there was little awareness in the public domain about this grouping. Although BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) was first set up way back in 1997, its character as a formal organisation replete with a charter and a vision to integrate the region closely was missing. However, thanks to Indias quest to become a formidable economy along with the willingness of the current dispensation to take on a leading role in regional integration in the Bay of Bengal region, today BIMSTEC is finally acquiring a strategic significance with economic integration seeming to become the core of intra-countries cooperation. Advertisement This week BIMSTEC is having its sixth summit in Thailand where leaders from all the seven countriesIndia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailandare present. While this is the first summit since a formal charter for the organisation was adopted in the year 2022, this time around there is no dearth of new initiatives. Key among this is a proposed Free Trade Agreement between BIMSTEC countries. While speaking to an Indian media outlet, the secretary-general of BIMSTEC, Indra Mani Pandey has disclosed that a roadmap to a regional free trade agreement is going to be the part of the Bangkok Vision 2030 document, which will be adopted at the summit. Interestingly, the FTA roadmap is also accompanied by a maritime transport cooperation agreement between the member countries. Since Bay of Bengal is predominantly a maritime region with almost all countries except Bhutan and Nepal having access to the waters of the Indian Ocean, maritime connectivity can immensely benefit regional economic initiatives. For the uninitiated, this is not the first time that a Free Trade Agreement at the BIMSTEC level is being considered by member countries. The discussions for the same have been going on for a long time for almost 21 years now, with the first proposal being accepted by the grouping in the year 2004 only. Last year, at the inaugural edition of the BIMSTEC Business Summit, Indias minister of commerce and industry, Piyush Goyal, had even called upon other countries to introspect regarding this unusual delay pointing out how the potential for trade in the region is high and yet the intraregional trade is so dismal. Even Bhutan, another member country, has come in support of an early conclusion of the FTA, pointing to the regions status as one of the least integrated regions in the world. BIMSTEC represents the Bay of Bengal region, which is known as one of the most dynamic and resource-rich regions in the world. It is home to more than 1.7 billion people with a combined economic strength of more than $5 trillion. It is also home to the fastest growing major economy like India, a dynamic economy like Bangladesh which, until Muhammad Yunus had arrived, was known as a miraculous case of development, as well as Thailand which is a manufacturing and export-driven economy and a flourishing ASEAN success story. These countries also enjoy a great geographical advantage, especially the coastal nations like India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand. Advertisement Despite this, the grouping has a terrible record on economic integration with intra-regional trade being only 6 per cent of their total trade. As per some exploratory studies, this percentage can easily be increased if the intraregional trade potential of $300-400 billion is realised annually and here an early concluded free trade agreement can be a real game-changer. Although economic integration in the Bay of Bengal region has so far been a non-starter, the case for India to pursue it with an increased vigour is only becoming stronger each day. The country is currently looking to expand its manufacturing base and increase exports to external markets in order to realise the goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy and even more. Here the strategy of inking favourable free trade agreements, one where Indian products can get access to foreign markets is very important. If the decade between 2004 and 2014 was marked by FTA-fetishism where India signed FTAs regardless of the benefits that it accrued to the economy, right now the focus is on reciprocal market access. BIMSTEC, thanks to its economic dynamism, offers a great chance for India to benefit from a more integrated region. Advertisement Currently, Indias trade with BIMSTEC is a meagre $45 billion, which can easily grow manifold with an FTA. This would also take some pressure off from Indias dependence on its traditional export markets, especially the United States. Recently, US President Donald Trump has imposed a 27 per cent tariff on Indian products making them relatively uncompetitive in the American markets. Currently, the US is one of the biggest export markets for India but in the long term India needs to diversify its trading partners where the BIMSTEC region can be of great potential. Also, as global manufacturers look for newer bases as part of the China+1 strategy, an FTA with BIMSTEC countries can be particularly helpful in making them choose India due to the allure of a larger market encompassing the entire Bay of Bengal region. Besides the obvious economic logic for India to push for a BIMSTEC free trade area, there is also a sound geopolitical logic to it. This is because a rising Indias influence in its own backyard is threatened by the presence of an adversarial China. Unfortunately, despite the close geographic linkages that India enjoys with each of the countries in the grouping, it is China and not India which is their dominant economic partner. The overwhelming presence that China enjoys in their economic realms also provides it with a clear political heft. A sample of this is visible in Myanmar and Bangladesh where India shares a long contiguous boundary with both countries and hence security in its crucial border region of Northeastern states is also dependent on it. Advertisement Recently, Bangladeshs Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus had issued an open invitation to China to take advantage of Bangladeshs maritime connectivity, while at the same time he had also highlighted the landlocked status of Indias northeastern region subtly pointing towards its vulnerability. While it is true that for decades, the seven sisters in the region have been a victim of the previous Indian governments inattention but now the paradigm has shifted. A robust economic integration in the Bay of Bengal region would not only spur economic development in these states but also make Indias northeastern plank less vulnerable from a national security perspective. Thus the Modi governments repeated efforts to make sure that a BIMSTEC free trade agreement becomes a reality is a welcome development. India has come a long way by reimagining its neighbourhood beyond the territorial limitations of South Asia to include maritime domain as well as the dynamic region of Southeast Asia through the forum of BIMSTEC. History is testament to Indias great presence in the region during the various maritime empires of the past, now the need of hour is to reclaim that lost glory. Advertisement The writer is a New Delhi-based commentator on geopolitics and foreign policy. She holds a PhD from the Department of International Relations, South Asian University. She tweets @TrulyMonica. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views The State Departments announcement that Women Student Protest Leaders of Bangladesh would receive the Madeleine Albright Honorary Group Award suggested a deliberate attempt to embarrass Rubio, undermine the Trump administration, and derail President Trumps outreach to PM Modi read more On April 1, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio hosted the annual International Women of Courage awards ceremony at the US Department of State. It is the type of ceremony that might consume hundreds of man-hours as diplomats fight among themselves to have their contacts be awardees and debate the geographic, ethnic, and religious diversity of the grantees. Usually, the Secretary of State will just get a list of awardees and an anodyne speech but would be hard-pressed to remember any of the honorees let alone what they had done if he saw them a week later. While those honoured might get a visa and a trip, the benefits of the ceremonies have more to do with making work for diplomats than any gain to the national security of the United States. Advertisement The opposite is not true, however. Just as USAID Administrator Samantha Powers nod-and-wink financing of Hamas-linked charities cratered confidence and contributed to the organizations ultimate closure, so too does honoring the wrong person hemorrhage legitimacy and undermine US interests. The State Departments announcement that Women Student Protest Leaders of Bangladesh would receive the Madeleine Albright Honorary Group Award suggested a deliberate attempt to embarrass Rubio, undermine the Trump administration, and derail President Donald Trumps outreach to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The protests that Rubio now honours unleashed a wave of terror in which mobs descended upon minority communities to rape and pillage. Interim leader Muhammad Yunus has imprisoned more than 1,000 journalists including Farzana Rupa and Shakil Ahmed whose sole crime appears to have been to question the impunity with which Yunus ran roughshod over the law. The Yunus regime now seeks to ban secular opposition parties even as it releases Al Qaeda affiliates from prison. Rubios timing could not be worse: It came just days after Yunus returned from China and promised to help collaborate with China to blockade the Seven Sisters, landlocked Indian states wedged between China and its willing satrapy. Perhaps Rubio simply made a mistake; he is new after all, but at one of the most important inflection points in the history of Bangladesh, with the country teetering between a secular, tolerant vision and Islamist dictatorship, Rubio symbolically sides with those who chant death to America in the streets. The question now is not Rubios naivete, but how the State Departments Bureau of South Asian and Central Asian Affairs elevated the proposal to Rubios office. Ordinary diplomatsthose at the U.S. Embassies in Dhaka and New Delhias well as their colleagues staffing their respective desks in Washington understand what is at stake; they just choose to ignore the secretary to pursue their own agendas. Advertisement Here, there is a parallel to the Carter administration. In 1978 and 1979, protests accelerated in Iran against the shah. At the time, Iran was a chief U.S. ally, and a pillar of American policy throughout the region. Low-level diplomats did not care. They hated the Shah with the passion some ex-U.S. diplomats today hate Sheikh Hasina or obsess about Modi. Carter-era National Security Advisor Zbigniew Brzezinski later explained in his memoirs, The lower echelons at State, notably the head of the Iran Deskwere motivated by doctrinal dislike of the Shah and simply wanted him out of power altogether. The danger is arrogance. If the State Departments South Asia team believes it can conduct a foreign policy independent from the elected US government and its confirmed leaders, then the same individuals will continue to undermine Rubio in order to try to disrupt the Trump-Modi partnership. After all, it is impossible to embrace and empower groups like Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and believe that an India-United States partnership can help define the 21st century. Those embracing Yunus and promoting those who opened the door in Bangladesh to growing Islamist rule would prioritize their personal bias against Sheikh Hasina, Modi, and Trump over Indias democracy and the necessity to counter Communist Chinas desire to make Asia authoritarian. Advertisement Modi should not hold back. He should be on the phone to Trump and demand an explanation. Rubio, meanwhile, should understand his own staff seek to embarrass and undermine him and begin to clean house. Perhaps there are some openings in Guinea-Bissau or Djibouti to which his South Asia team can transfer. Michael Rubin is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. The father of Indian scholar Badar Khan Suri, arrested in the US, has claimed while speaking to Firstpost that his son was arrested on false charges by the Trump administration read more The father of Indian scholar Badar Khan Suri who has been detained in the US has claimed that his son was falsely implicated by the Trump administration based on misleading narratives and connections. He also denied any link between his son and the Palestinian armed group Hamas. Speaking exclusively to Firstpost, Badars father said that the family has not spoken to him since his arrest and is relying on updates from his wife, who remains in touch with him through his legal team. Advertisement Suris father, Haji Shamshad Khan, dismissed the allegations on which his son was arrested as a fabricated narrative. Khan said, He [Suri] has absolutely no connection to Hamasnot even 1 per cent. He has done nothing wrong. He used to say that Hamas was so insignificant that the US could crush it in seconds. He has never expressed any support for Hamas in any form. A retired government official living in the small town of Nakud in Uttar Pradeshs Saharanpur district, Khan said, People often say that Muslims dont prioritise education for their children, yet when they do, this is the reality they are forced to face. But is our only fault that we worked hard to educate our children despite difficult circumstances? Badar has three children. His 10-year-old son breaks down whenever he thinks of his father, whom he hasnt seen since the arrest. Just yesterday, I spoke to his daughtershe had a 102-degree fever. Its heartbreaking to see our children suffering without their father, Khan said. Suris arrest over alleged Hamas link Suri, a postdoctoral fellow at Georgetown Universitys Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, was arrested on 17 March from his home in Virginia. Afterwards, a Department of Homeland Security official said Suri had close links with Hamas, the Palestinian group which has been at war with close US ally Israel as a fragile ceasefire agreement failed to enter its second phase last month. Suri faced deportation over charges of links with Hamas, a group proscribed by the US. However, Suris deportation was later blocked by a US court order. Advertisement Suris marriage to Mapheze Saleh, daughter of former Hamas adviser Suri is married to Mapheze Saleh, a US citizen of Palestinian descent. Saleh previously worked for Al Jazeera and is the daughter of Ahmed Yousef, who served as a senior political adviser to Hamas leadership. While pursuing his PhD at Jamia Millia Islamia as a student of peace and conflict studies, Suri travelled to Gaza in 2010 as part of an international aid convoy, said his niece, who wished not to be named. Mapheze Saleh with her husband, Badar Khan Suri, and their son, Arafat, at their home in Jamia Nagar. (Image: FP) Suris Gaza visit Suris niece told Firstpost that his 2010 trip to Gaza was for educational purposes as part of his research. It was during this trip that he met Saleh. Later, a Palestinian ambassador to New Delhi recommended Suri to Salehs father for marriage, said Khan. He also said Salehs father was impressed with Suris affable personality and strong academic background and agreed for their marriage. Badar and I travelled to Gaza, Palestine, in 2011 for a week. We formally sought her [Salehs] hand for Badar from her parents. Since then, my son has never visited Gaza, Khan said. Advertisement Khan said a Vidaai Samaaroh (a ceremony marking the brides leaving of her parental home to husbands) was organised at the Palestinian Embassy in New Delhi on 2 January 2014 after their wedding. The event was attended by their relatives, including Suris mother-in-law, brother-in-law, and other family members. Photograph of wedding reception of Badar Khan Suri and Mahpheze Saleh (Image: FP) After completing his PhD at Jamia, he moved to Georgetown University in the United States, where he was engaged in both studying and teaching. Trump administration framing Badar: Father When asked about the reason behind these allegations, Shamshad said, His research during his post-doctorate was on peace and conflict. He has conducted extensive academic work on conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. At one point, he tweeted that Hamas treated hostages well, unlike the Israelis. This led the Trump administration to assume he was a Hamas supporter, and now they are baselessly speculating that he is an adviser to Ismail Haniyeh. However, there is no possibility that he has met them or knows them personally, Suris father said. Advertisement Badar Khan Suri. Image: LinkedIn Khan, emphasising that the Indian government must actively engage to secure his release, said, As soon as he was detained, my daughter-in-law promptly informed the Indian Embassy and kept them in the loop throughout. We appeal to the Indian government to ensure justice is served. He is a true Indian and has never been anti-India, nor has he ever spoken against the United States. In fact, he often praised America as a great nation. I hope the Indian government will stand by him and support his cause, he said. Khans claims are, however, in contrast with what the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Suris case on March 21 in New Delhi. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said, We are given to understand through media reports that this individual has been detained. Neither the US government nor the individual has approached us or the embassy. Family not in touch since his arrest Suris father, reiterating that his son has done nothing wrong, said that he is incredibly intelligent, humble, and dedicated to his studies. Advertisement Khan stated that the family has not spoken to Suri since his arrest and that they are only getting updates through their daughter-in-law. He said, Since his arrest, he has been held in a detention camp, and we have not spoken to him even once. The only updates on his well-being come through our daughter-in-law, who stays in touch with him via his lawyers. My wife may not be highly educated and does not know much about this world, but today, her eyes are filled with tears. She worked incredibly hard to give Badar a good education. Both of us compromised on our daily needs to provide for our childrens education. We remain hopeful that he will regain his freedom. Suri and his in-laws in Gaza When Firstpost asked Khan about his sons relationship with his in-laws, who were former senior Hamas advisers, he responded, Yes, his father-in-law was a Hamas advisor, and his wifes family is connected to Yasser Arafat. But is being related to a former Hamas advisor a crime? Advertisement Khan further stated that since moving to the United States, Suri has had no contact with his in-laws. Not in the US for politics, but for studies: Father Khan said, He is not there to do politics or become a politicianhe is there purely for his studies. He is also working on writing books. I once asked him, Since youve done so well here, why go to the US? His arrest comes amid President Donald Trumps crackdown on illegal immigrants and pro-Palestinian protests accused of supporting Hamas, which the US considers a terrorist organisation. Khan also expressed gratitude to Georgetown University, telling Firstpost that a panel is actively advocating for him. I have complete faith that he will be proven innocent and will continue to live there and complete the research and studies for which he went. We dont want a true scholar like him to return home with such humiliation. Over the past 10 years, the Act East Policy has positioned India as an active and influential player in Southeast Asia. While the Look East Policy primarily focused on trade, AEP has expanded into a multidimensional strategy that includes diplomacy, defence, connectivity and culture. read more PM Modis foreign policy is defined by its dynamism and action, exemplified through the implementation of the Act East Policy. Initially introduced in 1992 as the Look East Policy, it focused mainly on economic ties with Southeast Asia. Recognising the changing global dynamics, PM Modi reinvigorated this approach in 2014, transforming it into the Act East Policy (AEP) with an emphasis on stronger action and tangible outcomes. This shift marked a strategic approach to deepen diplomatic engagement, strengthen trade partnerships, enhance security cooperation, and promote cultural exchanges with Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. The AEP established India as an active stakeholder in regional affairs. Advertisement Sustained engagements PM Modi has made several visits to neighbouring countries to fortify these ties. His trips to Singapore (2015, 2018, 2024) have bolstered economic and fintech collaboration, while his visits to Indonesia (2018, 2022, 2023) expanded maritime security cooperation. In 2017, PM Modis visit to the Philippines was the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 36 years, emphasising Indias role in ASEAN security and trade. His historic visit to Brunei in 2024 was the first-ever by an Indian PM, symbolizing Indias growing diplomatic outreach. Additionally, inviting all ASEAN leaders as Chief Guests for Indias Republic Day to celebrate 25 years of ASEAN-India Dialogue Partnership was a significant diplomatic gesture. PM Modi has also visited Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, advancing Indias strategic and economic interests in the region. Major boost to economic partnerships and trade Under PM Modis leadership, Indias trade with ASEAN nearly doubled, growing from USD 71 billion in 2016-17 to over USD 130 billion by 2024. India is now ASEANs 7th largest trading partner, while ASEAN is Indias 4th largest. To enhance economic connectivity, the Modi government has pushed for infrastructure projects like the IndiaMyanmarThailand Trilateral Highway. Improved flight connectivity has facilitated business, tourism, and cultural exchanges. Additionally, the Agartala-Akhaura railway project has enhanced connectivity between North Eastern States and Bangladesh, boosting trade. Strategic partnership The strategic and defence dimensions of the AEP have also been crucial. India has actively engaged in maritime security cooperation, particularly with the Philippines and Vietnam. A major milestone was the sale of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines, marking Indias entry as a defence supplier in the region. India has signed military logistics agreements with Vietnam, expanding its presence in the Indo-Pacific security framework. The Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), launched in 2019, aims to ensure maritime stability and freedom of navigation. The first-ever joint maritime exercise between India and ASEAN in 2023 was aimed at countering security challenges in the South China Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific. Strong cultural and people-to-people ties Cultural and people-to-people ties have also been vital in strengthening Indias relationship with Southeast Asia. The Act East Policy has revitalised Indias shared Buddhist heritage with countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Scholarships for over 300 ASEAN students at Nalanda University and educational and cultural exchanges have strengthened these ties. The growing influence of International Yoga Day in Southeast Asia further highlights the role of cultural diplomacy. Collaboration in other spheres Additionally, Singapore was the first country to establish fintech connectivity with India, fostering digital and economic collaboration across ASEAN. India also extended medical assistance to ASEAN countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. India has emerged as a first responder in various crises: Sri Lanka (2022-23): Providing $4 billion in assistance and playing a key role in securing a $2.9 billion IMF bailout. Nepal Earthquake (2015): Launching Operation Maitri for relief efforts. Afghanistan (2018): Sending 1.7 lakh tonnes of wheat and 2,000 tonnes of Chana Dal to combat drought. Impact of Act East policy The Act East Policy has positioned India as a significant player in Southeast Asia over the past decade. While the Look East Policy primarily focused on trade, the AEP has evolved into a multidimensional strategy encompassing diplomacy, defence, connectivity and culture. PM Modis engagements, high-profile summits, and strategic partnerships have strengthened Indias presence in the Indo-Pacific, making India a leader in regional affairs. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladeshs interim Chief Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, sat together at a dinner hosted by the Thai Prime Minister in Bangkok on Thursday. Photos of the two leaders were shared on X by the office of Bangladeshs Chief Advisor. read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladeshs interim Chief Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, sat next to each other during an official dinner hosted by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok on Thursday. An official from the office of Bangladeshs Chief Advisor shared pictures showing the two leaders seated together in a post on X. Screen grab of BIMSTEC Summit official dinner on Thursday. pic.twitter.com/XHTBV1cNqV Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh (@ChiefAdviserGoB) April 3, 2025 Advertisement The dinner was held for the visiting Heads of State and Government attending the Bimstec summit. The interim government of Bangladesh is eager to hold the first-ever bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the Bimstec summit in Bangkok. Bangladesh will officially take over the Bimstec chairmanship on Friday. Khalilur Rahman, the Chief Advisors High Representative on Rohingya and Priority Issues, said on Wednesday that Bimstec leaders will discuss future plans with Yunus, and there is a possibility of a meeting between Yunus and Prime Minister Modi. We requested India to hold this meeting between the two leaders there is a strong possibility it will happen, Rahman said during a press briefing in Dhaka ahead of the summit. PM Modis letter to Yunus on Bangladeshs National Day Last week, Prime Minister Modi wrote to Yunus on Bangladeshs National Day, calling the Liberation War a shared history and emphasising the importance of mutual sensitivity. We remain committed to advancing this partnership, guided by our shared aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity, and based on mutual respect for each others concerns, Modi wrote. Ouster of Hasina and violence against minorities in Bangladesh New Delhi, however, has expressed concern over the worsening law and order situation and violence against minorities in Bangladesh under the interim government. The Yunus-led administration has faced criticism for releasing extremists and Islamists following the fall of Sheikh Hasinas Awami League government in August 2024. Advertisement We support a stable, peaceful, inclusive, and progressive Bangladesh where issues are resolved democratically through inclusive elections. We remain concerned about the deteriorating situation, especially due to the release of violent extremists convicted of serious crimes, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal has said repeatedly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Myanmars Senior General Min Aung Hlaing for a bilateral meeting on Friday. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Thailand for the sixth Bimstec summit. read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the Senior General of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Min Aung Hlaing, and held a bilateral meeting on Friday. During the meet, PM Modi also offered his condolences to those who lost their lives and property in the March 28 earthquake. In a post on X, PM Modi stated, Met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar on the sidelines of the Bimstec Summit in Bangkok. Once again expressed condolences on the loss of lives and damage of property in the wake of the recent earthquake. India is doing whatever is possible to assist our sisters and brothers of Myanmar in this critical time. We also discussed bilateral relations between India and Myanmar, particularly in sectors like connectivity, capacity building, infrastructure development and more. Advertisement PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Thailand for the sixth Bimstec summit. He arrived in Bangkok on 3 April 2025 to a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora, with chants of Modi, Modi at Don Mueang Airport. During his visit, he met with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and attended a state dinner hosted by her. Notably, he was seated next to Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of Bangladeshs interim government, sparking speculation about possible bilateral talks on the sidelines. With the rollout of the latest round of tariffs, US President Donald Trump has imposed 54% tariffs on China read more China on Friday imposed 34 per cent retaliatory tariffs on all US goods. In retaliation to US President Donald Trumps rollout of tariffs on Wednesday, Chinese tariffs will come into effect on April 10, according to Chinas Xinhua news agency. In the tariffs announced on Wednesday, Trump slapped 34 per cent tariffs on China on top of 20 per cent tariffs previously slapped in two tranches. This means that he has slapped a total of 54 per cent tariffs on China. Trumps tariffs are on top of targeted, sectoral tariffs that the previous Joe Biden administration had imposed. Advertisement Unlike Trumps tariffs that exempted some import categories like semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, Chinese retaliation has not carved out any such exemptions, according to The New York Times. China also announced a slew of non-triff retaliatory measures, as per The Times. In addition to tariffs, China put 11 US companies in the unreliable entities list that would essentially ban these companies from doing business in China or with Chinese companies. China also imposed tight export controls on some rare earth minerals that are used in a lot of products ranging from electric vehicles (EVs) to military technology and weapons. ALSO READ: Worse than anticipated: Will Trumps Liberation Day turn into USs recession day? China also banned the import of US chicken from some particular producers, according to the list. Previously, China had announced retaliation to two tranches of Trumps tariffs as well. In the first round of retaliation in February, China imposed 15 per cent tariffs on US coal and liquified natural gas (LNG) and 10 per cent tariffs on US crude oil, farm equipment, and some autos. China also announced non-tariff punitive meaures. Advertisement China imposed export controls on tungsten, tellurium, ruthenium, molybdenum, and ruthenium-related items to safeguard national security interests. It also launched an an anti-monopoly investigation into US technology giant Google and designated Calvin Klein-maker PVH Corp and US biotech company Illumina as unreliable entities. In the second round of retaliation in March, China imposed 15 per cent tariffs on US chicken, wheat, corn, and cotton, and 10 per cent tariff on US soybeans, sorghum, pork, beef, aquatic products, fruits, vegetables, and dairy imports. China also put 25 US firms under export and investment restrictions. Turk called for an independent, prompt and thorough investigation into the March 23 incident that Israeli officials have claimed was an attack on terrorists read more Palestinians make their way with belongings as they flee their homes, after the Israeli army issued evacuation orders, in the Shujaiya neighborhood of Gaza City, on Thursday. Reuters The death of 15 medics and humanitarian workers in Gaza after shots were fired at their ambulances raises further concerns of war crimes by the Israeli army, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said on Thursday. I am appalled by the recent killings of 15 medical personnel and humanitarian aid workers, which raise further concerns over the commission of war crimes by the Israeli military, Volker Turk told the UN Security Council. Advertisement Turk called for an independent, prompt and thorough investigation into the March 23 incident that Israeli officials have claimed was an attack on terrorists. The bodies of 15 rescuers and humanitarian workers, including eight from the Palestinian Red Crescent and one from the UN, were found near Rafah in what the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) called a mass grave. OCHA said Tuesday the first team was killed by Israeli forces on March 23, and that other emergency and aid teams were struck one after another for several hours as they searched for their missing colleagues. This is one of the darkest moments in this conflict that has shaken our shared humanity to its core, said the president of the Palestinian Red Crescent Society Younes Al-Khatib before the UN Security Council on Thursday. The souls of Mostafa, Ezzedine, Saleh, Riffat, Mohammad Bahloul, Mohammed Al-Heila, Ashraf and Raed are asking for justice. Can you hear them? he asked, demanding to know the fate of a 16th team member still missing. Its worth noting, also, that during the communication with the team, the dispatch could hear a conversation in Hebrew between the Israeli forces and the team, meaning some were alive, still alive, when they were under the control of the Israeli forces, Al-Khatib said. Slovenian UN ambassador Samuel Zbogar called the situation in Gaza erosion of humanity. Advertisement We cannot choose to believe these were simply mistakes, he said, in reference to the repeated attacks on humanitarian workers. The Israeli army has indicated it is investigating the incident of March 23, 2025, while claiming its soldiers had fired at terrorists. Danny Danon, Israels ambassador to the UN, called for a better vetting system of humanitarian organizations to protect civilian workers. How did nine Hamas terrorists find themselves traveling inside Red Crescent ambulances in the middle of the night? Danon said. The presence of those terrorists puts everyones lives at risk. Turk also condemned Israel for blocking the entry of humanitarian aid for a month and resuming its military operations, saying the blockade and siege of Gaza, and the subsequent suffering of civilians constitutes a form of collective punishment. It may also amount to the use of starvation as a method of war, he said. Turk expressed alarm over inflammatory statements by senior Israeli officials about seizing, dividing, and controlling the territory of the Gaza Strip. Advertisement All of this raises serious concerns about international crimes being committed and contradicts the fundamental principle of international law regarding acquisition of territory by force. The war was triggered by Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Hamas warned on Friday that Israels offensive in Gaza is creating a highly dangerous situation for the hostages held there, noting that half of the surviving captives are in areas where the military has issued evacuation orders read more Palestinians sift through the rubble of a building hit by an Israeli airstrike that killed at least 17 people, including some from the same family, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, on Friday. AP Hamas warned on Friday that Israels offensive in Gaza is creating a highly dangerous situation for the hostages held there, noting that half of the surviving captives are in areas where the military has issued evacuation orders. Half of the living Israeli (hostages) are located in areas that the Israeli occupation army has requested to be evacuated in recent days, AFP quoted Abu Obeida, spokesman for Hamass armed wing, as saying in a statement. We have decided not to transfer these (hostages) but (this situation) is highly dangerous to their lives, he added. Since the renewed military operations last month ended a brief truce with Hamas, Israel has intensified its efforts to seize territory in the Gaza Strip, claiming this strategy aims to pressure militants into releasing hostages. Advertisement In Gaza City, the Israeli army said that ground troops are active in the Shujaiya area to expand the security zone established within Palestinian territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the military is dividing Gaza and seizing territory to compel Hamas to release the remaining Israeli hostages taken during the October 2023 attack that ignited the conflict. Out of 251 individuals abducted during the Hamas attack, 58 are still held hostages in Gaza, including 34 whom the military has declared dead. The Israeli military announced on Thursday that it has targeted over 600 terror sites in the Gaza Strip since the offensive resumed on March 18. The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said 1,249 people have been killed since Israel resumed intense bombing last month, bringing the overall death toll since the war began to 50,609. The October 7, 2023 attack on Israel that sparked the war resulted in 1,218 deaths, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israel has also ramped up attacks on Syria and Lebanon, coinciding with a visit from a US envoy. This follows a pre-dawn strike on Sidon that resulted in the death of a Hamas commander. With inputs from agencies As US President Donald Trump has imposed more tariffs on the European Union (EU) than the United Kingdom, supporters of Brexit have credited their movement for saving the nation from the worst of the trade war read more US President Donald Trump has spared the United Kingdom from the worst of his tariff war. Some in the UK credit Brexit for it. Trump on Wednesday slapped the European Union (EU) with 20 per cent tariffs, but imposed just 10 per cent tariffs on the UK. In 2016, the UK voted in a referendum to leave the EU in what has been called Brexit a portmanteau of Britain and exit. The UK finally left the EU in January 2020. Advertisement Supporters of Brexit have now said that it has finally started paying dividend. They have said that the promise of Brexit bringing economic prosperity in the long run is now being fulfilled. However, critics have said that any apparent benefit is just incidental and the adverse effects of the exit far outweigh any incidental benefits. To be sure, Trump has not completely spared the UK from the worst of tariffs. The UK still faces 25 per cent tariffs on automobiles, steel, and aluminium, which is the same that the EU faces in these sectors. Brexit saved UK from trade war, say supporters Conservative Party MP Andrew Griffith, who currently serves as the Shadow Trade Secretary, said that the lower-than-EU tariff rate imposed on the UK was an example of a Brexit dividend that will have protected thousands of British jobs and businesses. In an article for The Daily Telegraph, Matthew Lynn notes that it is becaue of the Brexit that the UK now has the ability to negotiate a better deal with Trump and avoid a trade war that the EU is almost certain to get into. In recent weeks, Trump has been particularly vitriolic about the EU, saying the bloc was formed with the sole intention to screw the United States. In response to previous rounds of tariffs, the EU has already slapped counter-tariffs and is understood to be in the process to slap another round in retaliation to the tariffs announced on Wednesday. EU members cannot make bilateral trade agreements with any nations as trade-related decisions for members are taken collectively at the EU-level. Member-states may only make narrower, sectoral deals with nationsoutside the bloc. Moreover, Lynn said that the British industry now has an edge over the rest of Europe when it comes to exports as it faces fewer tariffs than the EU. Advertisement For Americans, a Scotch will be cheaper than Cognac, and Burberry cheaper than Hermes, but still with a luxury feel. Even better, there will now be a powerful incentive for EU manufacturers to ramp up production in the UK when they are selling products into the US. They will face lower tariffs while still manufacturing in Europe. A few may even move completely, noted Lynn. But has Brexit really saved UK? Not everyone agrees with Conservative MP Griffith or columnist Lynn about Brexit saving the UK from Trumps tariffs. Critics of the line of thought maintain that the fact that Trump, who was the biggest champion of Brexit outside of the UK, imposed any tariffs on UK despite the nation having exited the EU as he had wanted suggests that Brexit has not worked. They also say that adverse effects of Brexit far outweigh any incidental benefits. Last year, a study by Cambridge Econometrics found that the British economy was 140 billion smaller as a result of Brexit. The study further found that the average Briton was nearly 2,000 worse off and London alone had 300,000 fewer jobs as a result of Brexit Advertisement The study concluded that the UK business investment could have been about 12.4 per cent higher in 2023 if Brexit did not happen. The Independents David Maddox noted two promises of the Brexit, a trade deal with the United States and check on immigration, have not been met in the nine years since the Brexit was approved and five years since the UKs exit from the EU. Even as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is in the process of negotiating a trade deal with the United States, Maddox has said that it is likely to be highly focussed on specific areas and may not avoid tariffs altogether and far from the trade deal that Brexiteers promised. As for the immigration, Maddox noted that 3.6 million people have entered the UK legally since the Brexit, which is higher than when UK was part of the EU. PM Modi visited the iconic Wat Pho Temple in Thailand on Friday and plans to visit the Mahabodhi Temple in Sri Lanka, exemplifying PMs commitment to placing Buddhism at the forefront of Indias foreign policy and reinforcing the countrys role as a global hub for Buddhist culture read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the renowned Wat Pho Temple in Thailand on Friday. Image Courtesy: @narendramodi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday visited the renowned Wat Pho Temple, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, as part of his Thailand visit and is also scheduled to travel to the Mahabodhi Temple during his trip to Sri Lanka, exemplifying PMs commitment to placing Buddhism at the forefront of Indias foreign policy and reinforcing the countrys role as a global hub for Buddhist culture. Taking to X, PM Modi said, Today, I had the honour of visiting the historic Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkalaram Ratchaworamahawihan Or Wat Pho in Bangkok. I thank Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for the special gesture of coming to the Temple with me. Advertisement Today, I had the honour of visiting the historic Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkalaram Ratchaworamahawihan Or Wat Pho in Bangkok. I thank Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for the special gesture of coming to the Temple with me. One of Thailands most revered spiritual pic.twitter.com/5xIDGPmcrX Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 He said Wat Pho, one of Thailands most revered spiritual landmarks, symbolises Thailands rich cultural and artistic heritage. World over, people derive strength from Lord Buddhas teachings. These teachings also form the basis of an age-old civilisational bond between India and Thailand. Also got the opportunity to interact with several monks, he added. In 2024, during the India-ASEAN Summit, Prime Minister Modi presented a vintage brass Buddha statue to Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith, symbolising the shared heritage and Indias commitment to cultural diplomacy. That same year, India sent several sacred relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples, Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Maha Moggallana, to Thailand. An Indian delegation took these relics to Bangkok, where they were displayed for 25 days across four cities. Advertisement In 2023, PM Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visited the Bal Bodhi Tree at Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi, strengthening the long-standing Buddhist ties between India and Japan. India also hosted the first-ever Global Buddhist Summit, where scholars and practitioners discussed contemporary challenges through Buddhist philosophy, with PM Modi emphasising that Buddhas teachings offer solutions to global issues. In 2022, PM Modi visited Lumbini in Nepal on Buddha Purnima where he laid the foundation stone for the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage, a significant project aimed at promoting Buddhist culture and enhancing Indo-Nepal spiritual ties. That same year, India sent the Kapilavastu Relics, four Holy Relics of Lord Buddha, to Mongolia for an 11-day exposition during Mongolian Buddha Purnima celebrations. A 25-member delegation accompanied the relics to the Batsagaan Temple in the Gandan Monastery complex in Ulaanbaatar, showcasing Indias dedication to Buddhist diplomacy and cultural exchange. In 2019, PM Modi and Mongolias President Khaltmaagiin Battulga jointly unveiled a statue of Lord Buddha and his two disciples at the historic Gandan Tegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. Advertisement In 2018, PM Modi visited the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Singapore, highlighting Indias respect for Singapores Buddhist heritage and reinforcing cultural connections. In 2017, Modis Buddhist outreach was evident during his visit to Sri Lanka, where he addressed the International Vesak Day Celebrations in Colombo and visited the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, deepening cultural and religious bonds between India and Sri Lanka. In 2016, during a trip to Vietnam, PM Modi toured the Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi, engaging with Buddhist monks and emphasizing Indias commitment to Buddhist diplomacy in Southeast Asia. In 2015, he strengthened Indias Buddhist ties with multiple nations, visiting the Da Xingshan Temple and Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xian, China, to highlight the historical exchanges between the two countries. He also visited the Gandan Monastery in Mongolia and paid homage at the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, reinforcing Indias connection to one of Buddhisms most sacred sites. Advertisement In 2014, PM Modi explored the Toji and Kinkaku-ji temples in Kyoto, Japan, and attended a luncheon hosted by the Kyoto Buddhist Association, demonstrating his commitment to engaging with global Buddhist leaders. In India, Modis government has made significant strides in promoting Buddhist heritage. The development of the Buddhist Circuit, which traces key sites associated with Lord Buddhas life, has enhanced pilgrimage tourism. The introduction of the Mahaparinirvan Express tourist train offers an immersive experience across India and Nepals revered Buddhist locations. The Kushinagar International Airport has improved access to pilgrimage sites, while the revival of Nalanda University reestablishes India as a center for Buddhist learning. Additionally, the recognition of Pali as a classical language ensures the preservation of Buddhist literature. PM Modis emphasis on Buddhism reflects Indias commitment to cultural and spiritual leadership. His deep engagement with Buddhist heritage underscores Indias dedication to peace, harmony, and shared cultural values, reinforcing its role as a global center promoting the principles of Buddhism. Advertisement Military upgradation are being considered more urgent now for Germany, amid the continuing war between Russia and Ukraine and doubts about the future of U.S. military protection. read more For the first time, the German military will be equipped with loitering munitions or exploding drones, as Berlin seeks to modernise its arsenal, Reuters quoted two defence ministry sources as saying on Thursday. These single-use drones, which dive toward their target and detonate on impact, have demonstrated their destructive capabilities in Ukraine, where both Russian and Ukrainian forces have deployed them. Germany has long debated the procurement of armed drones, with concerns over their use in targeted killings by U.S. forces in Afghanistan. It was only in 2022 that parliament approved arming larger drones like the Heron TP, which operates at higher altitudes. However, with the ongoing Russia- Ukraine war and uncertainty over U.S. military support, Germany is prioritizing military upgrades. Advertisement Last month, the German parliament approved a major defence spending boost worth hundreds of billions of euros. Contracts with two companies for a first batch of exploding drones will be signed in the coming days, the sources said, declining to name the companies. The army, air force and navy will test them in the following months. The use of drones and the defence against drones is crucial for the survival of our troops on the modern battlefield, thats something we learned in Ukraine, said one of the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Each soldier must be capable of operating drones, just as today, everybody knows how to use binoculars. Germany will aim to sign longer-term contracts by the end of the year for a larger number of drones, shortening the period for introducing new weapons which usually takes years. As drone technology evolves rapidly, the deals will specify that companies supply a limited number initially for training purposes and that they may be asked later to supply a larger number of the latest models at short notice if needed. Theres no use in purchasing thousands of drones only to realise they are outdated by the time we need them, one of the sources said. Advertisement With inputs from agencies Former British prime minister Tony Blair said that Britain wouldnt benefit from an antagonistic response, according to a report read more British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump shake hands during a joint press conference in the East Room at the White House, in Washington, DC. Reuters File Former British prime minister Tony Blair has advised Keir Starmer to steer clear of retaliatory tariffs against the US following President Donald Trumps imposition of a 10% tariff on all British exports to America. According to a Politico report, Blair, who sought to strengthen the so-called special relationship between the UK and the US during his tenure from 1997 to 2007, emphasised that Britain would not gain from a confrontational approach. I dont think it is in the UKs best interest to retaliate," Politico quoted Blair as telling students at Kings College London in comments first reported by the Independent, as he praised Starmers cool heads response to the tariffs. Advertisement British ministers have said they are diligently pursuing an economic agreement with the US that would facilitate the reversal of tariffs. However, Treasury Minister James Murray told Sky News on Friday that businesses are being asked to identify products where tariffs would have the least impact on UK companies. We want to involve businesses in that decision, and we need to be clear that we keep all options on the table, Politico quoted Murray as saying. We reserve the right to retaliate, but we want a deal, and our full focus is on that, Murray added. Trump claimed Starmer was pleased Britain avoided the 20% tariffs slapped on EU goods. We have a very good dialogue, the US. president said on Thursday. I think he was very happy about how we treated them with tariffs, added Trump. Blair, a former Labour prime minister who worked closely with Republican US President George W. Bush during much of his time in office, also voiced concerns about Trumps diminished support for Nato. Following the Kosovo War in the 1990s, Blair mentioned that he aimed to promote increased defence spending in Europe. It became clear to me that we could never have done it without the Americans. I thought, This is crazy what happens if the Americans decide they dont want to be part of it? Blair was quoted as saying. Advertisement But it got caught up in a whole lot of Euroskeptic arguments, he added. With inputs from agencies The Pentagons watchdog has launched a probe into Defence Secretary Pete Hegseths use of Signal to discuss Yemen airstrikes. The move follows a leaked group chat that mistakenly included The Atlantics editor-in-chief. read more The Pentagons watchdog will investigate Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth for using the Signal messaging app to share details of airstrikes on Yemen, news agency AFP reported, citing officials. The move follows a leaked group chat involving senior Trump administration officials, including Hegseth and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, which discussed military action against Yemens Huthi rebels. Accidentally, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic was added to the chat group. The Pentagon Inspector Generals office will examine whether Hegseth and others followed rules for using commercial apps for official communication, as well as whether they complied with security and record-keeping laws, according to a memo from Acting IG Steven Stebbins. Advertisement The probe was launched after a request by the top Republican and Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee. The Atlantic magazine first reported the incident after its editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, was accidentally added to the Signal group. Messages included details such as the timing of the airstrikes, aircraft and missile types, and real-time intelligence on the strikes aftermath. Though the White House said no classified information was shared, the magazine later published the messages, prompting further controversy. A judge has now ordered the Trump administration to preserve all Signal messages exchanged from 11 March to 15 March the period during which the chat was active and the strikes occurred. Some messages had been set to auto-delete after one to four weeks, raising questions about possible violations of federal records laws. Former President Trump blamed Waltz for the leak but rejected calls for any resignations, defending the strikes as a success. The Huthis have targeted shipping routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since the 2023 Gaza conflict, causing major disruptions. In response, the US has carried out near-daily airstrikes on Huthi targets since 15 March. Xi stresses pooling strength to build Beautiful China Xinhua) 08:49, April 04, 2025 Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, plants a tree during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Xi and other Party and state leaders, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi) BEIJING, April 3 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for pooling strength in the building of a Beautiful China and making the country even greener through afforestation efforts. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks when attending a voluntary tree planting activity in Beijing on Thursday. Xi and other Party and state leaders, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District in the morning and planted trees with officials and local people. At the planting site, Xi waved to the crowd to extend his greetings before picking up a shovel to join the activity. He planted saplings of multiple types of trees. While planting the trees, he also asked the children at the site about their studies, life and participation in labor and sports. He stressed that a good life comes from hard work, encouraging young children to develop a love for labor and nature, and to actively participate in afforestation and other public welfare activities. During the event, Xi also talked with officials and local people on site. He noted that the current forest coverage rate in China has surpassed 25 percent, and the country contributes about a quarter of the world's newly increased afforestation areas. The ecological environment keeps improving, a fact that has been directly and tangibly felt by the people, he said. Xi noted that in the meantime, the total forest and grassland resources in China are still insufficient, urging efforts to effectively address prominent issues and to do even better year on year in this regard. Xi emphasized the importance of forest management and improvement of the ecological quality of grasslands, and called for efforts to boost the forestry and grassland-related industries. Afforestation should deliver more benefits to the people, he stressed. He added that voluntary tree planting is a nationwide initiative that must be carried on for generations. Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, plants a tree during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Xi and other Party and state leaders, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi) Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, waters a tree with children during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Xi and other Party and state leaders, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi) Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, talks with the crowd on site during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Xi and other Party and state leaders, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu) Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, talks with the crowd on site during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Xi and other Party and state leaders, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Yan Yan) Li Qiang plants a tree during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Liu Bin) Zhao Leji plants a tree during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) Wang Huning plants a tree during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Liu Bin) Cai Qi plants a tree during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei) Ding Xuexiang plants a tree during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu) Li Xi plants a tree during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei) Han Zheng plants a tree during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu) (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Wu Chaolan) SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. The White House fired at least five key aides on the National Security Council staff Thursday, a day after activist Laura Loomer visited the Oval Office and urged President Donald Trump to remove certain people whose views she deemed disloyal. The firings, occurring barely two months into Trump's return to Washington, marked the first major culling of Republican political appointees in his nascent second term, and people with knowledge of the shake-up said the number of dismissals could grow. They spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the president's personnel decisions. It appeared Thursday's action was intended to target staff perceived to be insufficiently devoted to advancing Trump's aims, either because they worked previously in organizations that also included former officials who served in Democratic administrations or because they were suspected of being "neocons" whose worldview aligns more closely with the GOP's forebears than Trump's "America First" agenda. Trump acknowledged the move, telling reporters traveling with him aboard Air Force One that, "We're always going to let go of people - people we don't like, or people that take advantage of, or people that may have loyalties to someone else." He called Loomer "a great patriot" who makes recommendations on people and "sometimes I listen to those recommendations," but he denied that she was involved in the NSC dismissals. Loomer, an influencer who has the president's ear, frequently makes inflammatory anti-Islam and anti-immigrant comments on social media as well as conspiratorial statements, including that "9/11 was an Inside Job!" During last year's presidential debate, she said on X that if Vice President Kamala Harris won "the White House will smell like curry & White House speeches will be facilitated via a call center" - a reference to Harris's Indian ancestry. Loomer's visit to the Oval Office was first reported by the New York Times. Axios reported earlier on the firings. During her meeting with Trump, Loomer went over a list of up to 10 names of NSC aides who she believed should be dismissed, according to two people familiar with the matter. National security adviser Michael Waltz was in the meeting and tried to defend his staff as Loomer attacked each of them in detail, these people said. Loomer has waged a public and private campaign against several Waltz aides who passed through the White House hiring process in what she has suggested in social media posts was a "VETTING FAILURE," an implicit criticism of Waltz's judgment. "POTUS continues to be undermined & put at risk due to a lack of vetting in his administration," Loomer said in a post on X, referring to the president of the United States. She has accused Waltz's senior director for Asia, Ivan Kanapathy, of disloyalty because of his past employment at Beacon Global Strategies alongside critics of Trump. She has also directed her criticism at Waltz's deputy, Alex Wong, because his wife worked at the Justice Department during the Obama and Biden administrations. Neither Wong nor Kanapathy immediately responded to requests for comment. Reached by phone, Loomer said she has long conducted opposition research on her own initiative and was "very happy to see that there is a swift response to my report," adding "hopefully this will inspire Michael Waltz to do better.'' Asked if she felt Waltz should be fired, Loomer said: "That's President Trump's decision. But if he is going to be getting another chance, and if President Trump still has faith in him, hopefully he will start to take [staff] vetting more seriously.'' The firings follow a controversy involving Waltz's mistaken inclusion of a journalist in a group chat on the commercial app Signal that involved high-level planning for a military strike in Yemen. He also has used his personal Gmail account to conduct government business, The Washington Post reported this week, and another senior aide discussed highly sensitive matters over his personal Gmail. Waltz's team also has regularly coordinated other national security business on Signal, Politico reported this week. Those fired in Thursday's purge include Brian Walsh, a director for intelligence and a former staff director on the Senate Intelligence Committee; Thomas Boodry, a senior director for legislative affairs who served as Waltz's legislative director for part of the time that Waltz was in the House; and David Feith, a senior director for technology and national security who had served in the State Department handling policy planning and Asia matters, according to four people familiar with the matter. Maggie Dougherty, a senior director for international operations, also was dismissed, said three people familiar with the matter. Feith, who former senior U.S. officials said distinguished himself for his work on export controls, declined to comment. Boodry, Walsh and Dougherty did not respond to requests for comment. A fifth person, a career official who was not a political appointee, also was let go on Thursday, said a U.S. official. More dismissals look to be in the offing, several people said. "People are incredibly anxious," one person familiar with the matter said. They don't know what to expect." Separately, two NSC aides who were held over from the Biden administration and worked on issues related to South Asia were let go last week. Loomer said that she hopes to see more stringent personnel vetting in Trump's second term. "My focus," she said, "is on perfecting the arts of opposition research and intel gathering for the sake of having a loyalty test, and having actual set standards, which is something that we really didn't see much of in the first administration where people who openly trashed the president or undermined him were constantly given positions." Trump in his first term dismissed a slew of national security officials, including an FBI director, key White House advisers, a defense secretary and a secretary of state. Others resigned in opposition to his policies and objectives. (COMMENT, BELOW) During his Sri Lanka visit, PM Modi will discuss advancements in cooperation outlined in the Joint Vision for Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future, established during the Sri Lankan Presidents visit to India, the MEA said in a statement read more After attending the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailands Bangkok, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday departed for Sri Lanka on a three-day trip at the invitation of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka. During his visit, PM Modi will discuss advancements in cooperation outlined in the Joint Vision for Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future, established during the Sri Lankan Presidents visit to India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. Advertisement PM Modi, who last visited Sri Lanka in 2019, will also engage with senior dignitaries and political leaders. He plans to travel to Anuradhapura to inaugurate development projects funded by Indian financial assistance. Earlier, Sri Lankas President made his first overseas visit to India following his assumption of office. The MEA emphasised that PM Modis visits to Thailand and Sri Lanka, along with his participation in the BIMSTEC Summit, will reinforce Indias commitment to its Neighbourhood First and Act East policies. Earlier in the day, PM Modi attended the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. He welcomed the adoption of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030 and the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement. In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, PM @narendramodi participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok today. PM welcomed signing of the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement, adoption of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030, and adoption of the Report of BIMSTEC Eminent Persons Group. The BIMSTEC Member States also adopted the Summit Declaration. PM @narendramodi participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok today. PM welcomed signing of the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement, adoption of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030, and adoption of the Report of BIMSTEC Eminent Persons Group. The BIMSTEC Member States also pic.twitter.com/WPq8riWaJh Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 4, 2025 PM Modi reaffirmed Indias commitment to boosting cooperation across diverse sectors in the BIMSTEC region on Friday. He expressed hope that the efforts would make a positive difference in the member states of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation). Advertisement In a post on X, he stated, With fellow BIMSTEC leaders at the Summit being held in Bangkok, Thailand. We reaffirm our commitment to boosting cooperation across diverse sectors. May our efforts bring a positive difference in peoples lives. On the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit, PM Modi held meetings with several world leaders, including Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay, Bangladeshs Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli. Following his meeting with Bhutanese counterpart Tshering Tobgay, PM Modi noted that India and Bhutan are cooperating extensively in various sectors and termed the friendship between the two nations robust. Had a great conversation with my good friend, PM Tobgay. Indias friendship with Bhutan is robust. We are cooperating extensively in several sectors.@tsheringtobgay pic.twitter.com/hXcVqUYXhX Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 Advertisement In a post on X, PM Modi stated, Had a great conversation with my good friend, PM Tobgay. Indias friendship with Bhutan is robust. We are cooperating extensively in several sectors. PM Modi held a meeting with Nepal counterpart KP Sharma Oli and stressed that he attaches immense priority to ties with Nepal. He said that he and Oli discussed different aspects of friendship between two nations. Had a productive meeting with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in Bangkok. India attaches immense priority to relations with Nepal. We discussed different aspects of India-Nepal friendship, especially in sectors like energy, connectivity, culture and digital technology. We also pic.twitter.com/Ygrj30VyfH Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 Had a productive meeting with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in Bangkok. India attaches immense priority to relations with Nepal. We discussed different aspects of India-Nepal friendship, especially in sectors like energy, connectivity, culture and digital technology. We also talked about some of the key positive outcomes from this years BIMSTEC Summit, especially in areas of disaster management and maritime transport, PM Modi posted on X. He met Bangladeshs Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and expressed Indias commitment to a constructive and people-centric relationship with Bangladesh. PM Modi expressed serious concern for the safety and well-being of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. On his meeting with Yunus, PM Modi in a statement on X stated, Met Mr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh. India remains committed to a constructive and people-centric relationship with Bangladesh. I reiterated Indias support for peace, stability, inclusivity and democracy in Bangladesh. Discussed measures to prevent illegal border crossings and expressed our serious concern for the safety and well-being of Hindus and other minorities. Advertisement Met Mr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh. India remains committed to a constructive and people-centric relationship with Bangladesh. I reiterated Indias support for peace, stability, inclusivity and democracy in Bangladesh. Discussed pic.twitter.com/4UQgj8aohf Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 PM Modi, accompanied by his Thai counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra, offered prayers at Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, popularly known as Wat Pho in Bangkok, on Friday.PM Modi paid homage to the Reclining Buddha and offered Sanghadana to senior Buddhist monks. He also presented a replica of the Ashokan Lion Capitol to the shrine of the Reclining Buddha. In a press release, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, Prime Minister paid homage to the Reclining Buddha and offered Sanghadana to senior Buddhists monks. Prime Minister also presented a replica of Ashokan Lion Capitol to the shrine of Reclining Buddha. On the occasion, he recalled the strong and vibrant civilizational ties that exist between the two countries. Advertisement PM Modi also held a meeting with the Senior General of Myanmar, Min Aung Hlaing and discussed bilateral relations between the two countries. PM expressed his condolences on the loss of lives and property in the wake of the earthquake on March 28. In a post on X, PM Modi stated, Met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. Once again expressed condolences on the loss of lives and damage of property in the wake of the recent earthquake. India is doing whatever is possible to assist our sisters and brothers of Myanmar in this critical time. We also discussed bilateral relations between India and Myanmar, particularly in sectors like connectivity, capacity building, infrastructure development and more. PM Modi and his Thai counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra held bilateral talks on Thursday and discussed ways to further strengthen political exchanges, defence and security partnership and strategic engagement between the two countries. They also underlined the need to enhance connectivity, health, science and technology, start-up, innovation, digital, education, culture and tourism collaborations. He also met former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra on Thursday. PM Modi described him as a great friend of India and discussed areas of potential cooperation between India and Thailand. With inputs from agencies Modi, set to arrive on Friday evening, will be the first global leader hosted by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake after he took office in September read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday, December 16, 2024. Source: X | @MEAIndia. India is looking to strengthen energy and defence ties with Sri Lanka and promote investments during Prime Minister Narendra Modis two-day state visit to the island nation, where New Delhi competes with China for greater influence. Modi, set to arrive on Friday evening, will be the first global leader hosted by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake after he took office in September. Sri Lanka is keen to attract foreign investment to stabilise its economy after a financial crisis in 2022, during which India provided $4 billion in financial assistance. Advertisement India is also one of Sri Lankas key bilateral lenders, which agreed to restructure about $1.36 billion in loans after the island nation defaulted on its debt in May 2022. Prime Minister Modis visit aims to strengthen the longstanding ties between Sri Lanka and India, the Sri Lankan presidents office said in a statement. The visit will see pacts signed on key sectors such as energy, digitalisation, security, healthcare, as well as agreements related to Indias debt restructuring assistance for Sri Lanka, it added. At their first meeting in New Delhi in December, the leaders discussed investments in Sri Lanka and plans for India to supply liquefied natural gas to Sri Lanka and help link power grids. The talks also featured development of a regional energy and industrial hub in eastern Trincomalee. In January, Dissanayake said the two were in talks on building an oil refinery there as a joint venture focusing on exports, domestic media said. When completed, the project would stoke competition between India and China, whose state energy firm Sinopec has signed a deal to build a $3.2-billion oil refinery in Sri Lankas southern port city of Hambantota. Advertisement New Delhi-run Indian Oil Corp is already the second biggest fuel supplier after state-owned Ceylon Petroleum Corp. Indias foreign ministry did not comment on whether the proposed Trincomalee refinery will figure in this weeks talks. It told reporters in a briefing ahead of the visit that Modi would join in a ceremony to break ground for a 120-megawatt solar power project of the Ceylon Electricity Board and Indias National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC.NS). The ministry said it hoped to wrap up an agreement on defence cooperation with Sri Lanka. Decembers discussions had envisioned provision of arms to Sri Lanka to boost its defence capability. During his state visit to Thailand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted exquisite Indian artifacts to the Thai leadership, symbolising shared cultural heritage. The King received a Brass Sarnath Buddha statue (Dhyan Mudra), embodying spiritual serenity while the Queen was presented a Brocade Silk Shawl from Varanasi, showcasing intricate Indian weaving. read more During his state visit to Thailand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented an array of traditional Indian gifts, including a Brass Statue of Sarnath Buddha and a Dokra Brass Peacock Boat, to the countrys leadership including the King, Queen and Prime Minister. Gift to the King of Thailand The Brass Statue of Sarnath Buddha in Dhyan Mudra is a remarkable blend of Buddhist spirituality and Indian artistry, reflecting the elegance of the Sarnath style. Crafted in Bihar, the statue embodies the influences of Gupta and Pala art, characterised by its serene expression, intricately designed robe and symbolic lotus pedestal. Advertisement In Dhyan Mudra, the Buddha sits in Padmasana, exuding deep meditation and inner peace. The Prabhavali (haloed backdrop), adorned with celestial figures and floral patterns, enhances the divine aura, creating a spiritual mandala. The lotus base, embellished with the Dharmachakra and auspicious symbols, signifies purity and enlightenment. Cast in brass, the statue represents the enduring nature of Dharma and resilience. Whether placed in meditation spaces, monasteries, or homes, it serves as a profound emblem of wisdom and tranquility. Gift to Queen of Thailand A Brocade Silk Shawl from Uttar Pradesh, particularly from Varanasi (Banaras), is a masterpiece of Indias rich weaving tradition. Crafted from the finest silk, it features intricate motifs depicting village life, divine celebrations and nature, inspired by Indian miniature and Pichwai art. The shawls vivid colour palettereds, blues, greens, and yellowssymbolizes joy and auspiciousness, while a broad ornamental border in deep pink, magenta, and gold adds a regal touch. Beyond its visual splendour, the shawl boasts a soft, warm, and luxurious drape, with skilled artisans dedicating weeks of meticulous craftsmanship to create each unique piece. Gift to PM of Thailand Dokra Brass Peacock Boat with Tribal Rider is a stunning example of traditional Indian metal craft originating from the tribal communities of Chhattisgarh. Made using the ancient lost-wax casting technique, each piece is handcrafted and unique. The sculpture features a peacock-shaped boat, symbolizing grace and cultural imagination, with intricate patterns and colourful lacquer inlays. A tribal rider calmly rowing represents the harmony between humans and nature, a central theme in Dokra art. Advertisement Crafted in brass, the piece develops a rich patina over time, enhancing its antique charm. Beyond its decorative appeal, this artifact preserves Indias tribal heritage, embodying simplicity, creativity, and connection to nature. Gift to spouse of Thailand PM The Gold-Plated Tiger Motif Cufflinks with Pearls blend tradition, artistry, and modern sophistication. Featuring a majestic tiger face, they symbolize courage, leadership, and royalty. Intricate Meenakari work, a heritage craft from Rajasthan and Gujarat, adds vibrant enamel detailing, reflecting Indias rich jewellery traditions. A pearl bead border softens the bold design, creating a balance of strength and elegance. Crafted in high-quality silver with gold plating, these cufflinks come with a bullet-back closure, ensuring durability and ease of wear. More than accessories, they are wearable pieces of heritage. Gift to Thaksin Shinawatra, former Thailand PM The Brass Urli with Peacock and Diya from Andhra Pradesh is a masterpiece of traditional brass craftsmanship, symbolizing purity, positivity, and abundance. Traditionally used for rituals and festive decorations, this urli is often filled with water, flowers, or floating candles, while the diya (oil lamp) enhances its spiritual significance. Renowned for its intricate carvings and flawless finishing, this piece reflects Andhra Pradeshs rich metalwork heritage. Its gleaming brass polish adds a regal charm, making it a timeless addition to both traditional and modern interiors. Advertisement Earlier today, PM Modi and the Thai PM held a meeting to discuss bilateral relations.A productive discussion meeting was held with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok just a short while ago. I would like to thank the Thai people and government for their warm welcome and also express solidarity with Thai people following the earthquake that occurred a few days ago, PM Modi wrote in a post on X. Further highlighting how Indias Act East" and Thailands Act West policy complement each other very well, he said that the bilateral cooperation will open up opportunities for both in many areas. Indias Act East Policy and Thailands Act West Policy complement each other very well, opening up opportunities for bilateral cooperation in many areas, the PMs post read. Earlier, the Thai government released a special stamp based on Ramayan mural paintings from the 18th century. Ahead of the visit, both PM Modi and President Dissanayake posted on X that they looked forward to strengthening the bilateral partnership and exploring new areas of cooperation read more Photo posted by PM Modi on X after he arrived in Colombo for a three-day visit Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (April 4) landed in Sri Lankas Colombo for a three-day visit, following his participation in the Bimstec summit in Thailand. It is PM Modis first visit to Sri Lanka since 2019, and after the leftist National Peoples Power alliance came to power under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake last year. The Indian PM was received by five top ministers of the Dissanayake government despite rain, reflecting the significance the Sri Lankan government attaches to this visit by Modi. Advertisement #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Colombo, Sri Lanka. In a special welcome, despite the rain, 6 top ministers of Sri Lanka received him at the airport. Sri Lankan Ministers Vijitha Herath, Nalinda Jayatissa, Anil Jayantha, Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Saroja Savithri pic.twitter.com/DggQ6i9xRo ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2025 PM Modi took to X to express his gratitude towards the ministers who came to receive him and said he was looking forward to the programmes in Sri Lanka. Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programmes in Sri Lanka, PM Modi wrote. Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programmes in Sri Lanka. pic.twitter.com/RYm5q1VhZk Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 Earlier, President Dissanayake visited New Delhi in December in his first official foreign visit. Ahead of the visit, both PM Modi and President Dissanayake posted on X that they looked forward to strengthening the bilateral partnership and exploring new areas of cooperation. Advertisement During the visit, India is set to sign eight memoranda of understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening cooperation across key sectors. Indian officials confirmed that these agreements will focus on digitalisation, healthcare, defence, and energypotentially providing the island nation with more affordable energy options. Prime Minister Modi is joined by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. (With inputs from agencies) It was the first meeting between the two leaders and the highest-level Indo-Bangladesh diplomatic interaction since Yunus took over as the chief adviser of an interim government after the removal of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina in August last year read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Apr 4) met with Bangladesh chief advisor Muhammad Yunus in Thai capital Bangkok on the sidelines of the 6th Bimstec Summit. It was the first meeting between the two leaders and the highest-level Indo-Bangladesh diplomatic interaction since Yunus took over as the chief adviser of an interim government after the removal of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina in August last year. According to Bangladeshi media, the meeting was requested by Dhaka in a bid to overcome tensions in bilateral relations after New Delhi expressed concerns over violence against minorities under Yunuss watch. The meeting came hot on the heels of Yunuss visit to China, where he triggered a controversy by describing Indias Northeast as landlocked and positioning Bangladesh as the guardian of ocean access for the region. Advertisement Yunuss remarks drew strong condemnation from Indian leaders, prompting Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to highlight Indias strategic role in the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec). PM Modis 4 big messages Avoid inflammatory rhetoric: The Indian PM urged Yunus to focus on building a pragmatic and fruitful relationship with New Delhi, rather than fuelling inflammatory rhetoric. The Indian leader also underscored the importance of maintaining border security and stability and cracking down on illegal border crossings. On the border, strict enforcement of the law and prevention of illegal border crossings, especially at night, are necessary for maintaining border security and stability, a press statement issued by Indias foreign ministry read. Safety of minorities: The PM also expressed his concerns about the safety of minorities, especially Hindus, in the country. He told the Bangladeshi representative to ensure that atrocities against Hindus are investigated. Prime Minister underlined Indias concerns related to the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, and expressed his expectation that the Government of Bangladesh would ensure their security, including by thoroughly investigating the cases of atrocities committed against them, the statement added. India supports democratic, progressive Bangladesh: In a subtle message, PM Modi also urged the Bangladeshi representative to be committed to a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. Advertisement Prime Minister highlighted that cooperation between the two countries has brought tangible benefits to the people of both countries. He underlined Indias desire to forge a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh based on pragmatism, the MEA readout stated. Constructive discussions: The Prime Minister reaffirmed his belief that both countries will continue to resolve mutual concerns through direct and constructive dialogue, strengthening their long-standing and beneficial relationship. Following the bilateral meeting, PM Modi took to X and wrote that India remained committed to a constructive and people-centric relationship with Bangladesh. I reiterated Indias support for peace, stability, inclusivity and democracy in Bangladesh. Discussed measures to prevent illegal border crossings and expressed our serious concern for the safety and well-being of Hindus and other minorities, PM Modi further wrote. Met Mr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh. India remains committed to a constructive and people-centric relationship with Bangladesh. I reiterated Indias support for peace, stability, inclusivity and democracy in Bangladesh. Discussed pic.twitter.com/4UQgj8aohf Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 Advertisement In its ecocide campaign, Ukraine is not just fighting Russia, its challenging the global community to confront the environmental cost of modern warfare read more Environmental damage in Ukraine has been massive because of the ongoing war with Russia. AP As the war in Ukraine grinds through its fourth devastating year, Ukrainian authorities are mounting a rare legal campaign that could shape the future of international criminal law charging Russia with ecocide. Defined broadly as the deliberate and widespread destruction of the environment, ecocide is increasingly seen not just as collateral damage, but as a war crime deserving global accountability. This campaign, spearheaded by Ukraines Office of the Prosecutor General, is compiling hundreds of cases documenting the massive environmental fallout of Russias military invasion. According to The New York Times reporting by Brendan Hoffman and Evelina Riabenko, Ukraine is now pursuing 247 cases of environmental war crimes 14 of which are categorised under ecocide, a crime enshrined in Ukraines criminal code. From Kyivs courtrooms to the International Criminal Court at The Hague, Ukraine is building a far-reaching legal case to address the environmental toll of war. Advertisement Prosecuting ecocide in international court Despite the sheer magnitude of the environmental toll, the path to holding Russia legally accountable remains fraught. As quoted by The New York Times, Maksym Popov, a special adviser on environmental crimes at Ukraines Prosecutor Generals Office, said, Nobody has done it before. The attempt to classify ecological devastation as an international crime of war and prosecute it as ecocide is still largely untested. Ukrainian officials estimate the financial damage from Russias environmental war crimes at over $85 billion. Andriy Kostin, Ukraines former prosecutor general and one of the key architects of the ecocide legal campaign, acknowledged that actual prosecution of Russian officials is unlikely in the near term. But he emphasised that even convictions in absentia would significantly bolster Ukraines claims for reparations in international tribunals. From soil to sky Explosive residue from millions of artillery shells has contaminated some of the worlds most fertile soil, known as chernozem or black earth. These soils, central to Ukraines agricultural economy, have been poisoned by heavy metals and chemical residue from constant shelling, mirroring contamination still found in battlefields from World War I in France, as noted by soil expert Naomi Rintoul-Hynes of Canterbury Christ Church University. In one area southeast of Kharkiv alone, scientists documented more than 30,000 artillery craters across 150 square miles a phenomenon described by experts as bombturbation, the mechanical churning of soil through warfare. These impacts introduce toxins that could render cropland unsafe for generations, eroding Ukraines agricultural foundation. Meanwhile, forests, particularly in eastern Ukraine, have burned uncontrollably. The New York Times revealed that in many zones, wildfires sparked by fighting or deliberately set to flush out soldiers have destroyed hundreds, possibly thousands, of square miles of woodland. Environmental damage from these fires is estimated at $18 billion, with the 2024 fire season already declared the worst on record more than 7,000 wildfires were recorded on a single day, September 7. Advertisement The smoke and pollutants released from burning fuel tanks, industrial plants and vegetation contribute to air pollution that spans national boundaries, while heavily mined zones prevent any meaningful firefighting response. The Kakhovka catastrophe Perhaps the single most devastating environmental blow came in June 2023 with the destruction of the Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro river. A New York Times investigation concluded that Russia was most likely behind the sabotage although the Kremlin has denied this and accused Ukraine of targeting its own infrastructure. The dams destruction unleashed a torrent of toxic water downstream and drained an enormous reservoir that once provided irrigation across southern Ukraine. The collapse dried out vast tracts of farmland with sunflower yields in nearby villages dropping to just 10 per cent of the previous years output. The disruption of irrigation networks, sediment displacement and the influx of freshwater into the salty Black Sea during a sensitive marine reproductive period also dealt a critical blow to coastal ecosystems. Advertisement Groundwater contamination In the Donbas region, another form of environmental degradation is playing out beneath the surface. As Russian forces advanced and took control of several ageing coal mines, most were shuttered hastily, allowing groundwater to flood into them and leach toxic substances like heavy metals and sulphates. This pollution then flows into rivers, spreads into agricultural soil and renders drinking water unsafe. The damage builds upon a water infrastructure already weakened from fighting since 2014, which forced civilians to resort to backyard wells. The mixing of different water tables due to these makeshift wells has compounded the contamination problem, experts report. Price of war on wildlife and ecosystems Ukraines wildlife has also been collateral damage in this war. Conservationists have tracked the collapse of once-thriving animal populations and rising disease among species. In many war-affected areas, hunting was restricted, allowing populations of foxes, wild boar and wolves to spike. According to Viktor Chervonyi of the All-Ukrainian Association of Hunters as reported by The New York Times, the fox population in one region increased fivefold and nearly one-fifth of those foxes were rabid due to disrupted vaccination campaigns. Advertisement Further south, a colony of flamingos that had fled fighting in Kherson and Crimea settled in the Tuzlovsky Lagoons National Nature Park. Marine life hasnt been spared either. An estimated up to 50,000 dolphins may have died in 2022, likely due to sonar emitted by Russian naval ships. Wars boomerang: Environmental fallout in Russia The environmental consequences of the war are not confined to Ukraine. Though largely absent from Ukrainian legal efforts, Russian territory has also suffered ecological consequences often from Ukraines own counterstrikes. Ukrainian forces have targeted Russian oil refineries and fuel depots sparking enormous fires and releasing plumes of smoke. Ukraine has not initiated legal proceedings related to environmental harm on Russian soil and The New York Times reporters acknowledged the limitations of their reporting in Russian-held or Russian territory. Nonetheless, the reciprocal destruction highlights that environmental warfare, like all warfare, leaves no side untouched. War undermines Russias climate efforts Since the onset of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has witnessed a significant decline in environmental protection and climate-related governance, as detailed by a report in The Moscow Times on February 23, 2024. Advertisement The geopolitical fallout notably Western sanctions and domestic repression of civil society not only disrupted Russias decarbonisation trajectory but also raised doubts about its ability to fulfill its net-zero goals by 2060. The Russian Academy of Sciences cautioned that by mid-century, emission reductions could be halved compared to earlier projections due to a heavy reliance on now-restricted Western technologies. The weakening of environmental regulations also has had tangible consequences. To cushion the blow of sanctions on its industrial base, Russia permitted the production of vehicles under the archaic ecological class 0 emission standard, roughly equivalent to Euro 1 a framework abandoned by the EU decades ago. This rollback allowed a flood of high-emission vehicles onto Russian roads, increasing public health risks linked to nitrogen oxide exposure. The report said that the militarisation of the economy contributed to a record 9 billion tonnes of industrial waste in 2022, the highest in two decades. Advertisement Drone restrictions across dozens of regions have also undercut essential forestry monitoring particularly for detecting wildfires, illegal logging and waste dumping. The Moscow Times also raised serious doubts whether the country can uphold credible climate action or contribute meaningfully to global sustainability efforts. Will the world acknowledge ecocide? Ukraines efforts to build a legal case against Russia for ecocide may be unprecedented, but they are far from symbolic. They reflect an urgent and growing recognition that modern warfare wreaks devastation not just on people and cities, but also on the natural world with consequences that can stretch across decades and borders. Whether the international community will embrace ecocide as a prosecutable war crime remains to be seen. For Ukraine, however, the goal is clear: justice for a wounded landscape and recognition that the environment is a victim of war and deserves a voice in its aftermath. Dmitriev, who leads Russias sovereign wealth fund and is a close adviser to President Vladimir Putin, travelled to Washington this week, to hold talks with White House officials. This was the first high-level visit to Washington from Russia since the start of Moscows full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 read more US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (second left) meets Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (extreme right), at Diriyah Palace, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, February 18, 2025. Image: AP Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev said on Thursday that some kind of security guarantees for Ukraine may be acceptable following high-level talks at the White House. US President Donald Trumps administration has been working to revive the stalled peace negotiation between Russia and Ukraine as the war continues to escalate. Dmitriev, who leads Russias sovereign wealth fund and is a close adviser to President Vladimir Putin, travelled to Washington this week, to hold talks with White House officials. This was the first high-level visit to Washington from Russia since the start of Moscows full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Advertisement During his trip, Dmitriev held two days of talks with American envoy Steve Witkoff, who met with Putin in Moscow last month as part of President Donald Trumps push for a ceasefire and peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. Russia sees a positive outcome Hopes for a peace deal between the two warring nations died down after Ukraine accused Russia of repeatedly violating an agreement not to strike each others infrastructure and energy plants. While speaking to Fox News, Dmitriev argued Ukraine had struck Russian energy targets, but claimed the White House talks had a positive outcome and conceded the Kremlin could be open to security guarantees for Kyiv. Some security guarantees in some form may be acceptable, Dmitriev said, without specifying which ones. He ruled out Ukraine joining NATO as not at all possible. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has long argued that security guarantees, such as joining NATO or US and European peacekeepers on the ground in Ukraine, are the only way to ensure Moscow does not attack again. Dmitrievs remarks marked a significant departure from Kremlins usual stance. In the past, Putin has said that peace would only be possible if Ukraine undergoes demilitarization, while his top diplomat, Sergey Lavrov, said Moscow categorically opposed European troops acting as peacekeepers. Interestingly, Russias change in stance came a month after Trump admitted those in the Kremlin could be dragging their feet on a ceasefire. Last week, Trump said he was pissed off at Putin after the Russian leader called for elections in Ukraine and ousting of the countrys President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. According to NBC News, members of Trumps inner circle have urged the American president not to accept a call from Putin until Moscow commits to a ceasefire. Advertisement This mean the South Korean leader is immediately removed from the office of the President. The county now has to hold a snap election to replace him read more South Koreas Constitutional Court upheld the impeachment of the countrys President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday. The panel of judges overseeing the case unanimously voted to uphold Yoons impeachment. This means the South Korean leader is immediately removed from the office of the President. The county now has to hold a snap election to replace him. During the hearing, the constitutional court judge read out the arguments from both sides. The court found that Yoon did not follow procedures when he implemented martial law. Advertisement The judge noted that Yoons exercise of national emergency powers was not justified, BBC reported. There was no existence of the national emergency, says Justice Moon Hyung-bae, who is acting president of the constitutional court. It was a situation that could have been solved through other means other than military deployment, he added. The court believed Yoon went against those he was supposed to protect and damaged peoples political rights. He did not uphold his duties and went against the people they were supposed to protect, Justice Moon averred. Meanwhile, Yoons ruling People Power Party said they accepted the decision of the court and apologised to the Korean people. Pro-Yoon supporters take on streets amid tight security South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeols supporters take on the streets of Seoul as the country as the court ruled in the infamous impeachment case. According to BBC, the crowd of Yoon supporters were seen chanting cancel impeachment at a rally held outside the presidential palace. Apart from this, the flags of the United States and South Korea were waved in the area, both symbols of the pro-Yoon camp. Several people were also wearing Stop the Steal pins - the slogan used by Donald Trump supporters that was co-opted by pro-Yoon conservatives. In light of this, the South Korean authorities have tightened security near the presidential palace and the Constitutional Court. According to the New York Times, at least 14,000 police had been deployed to the area around the court, closing subway stations and locking down an area near a former royal palace that is popular with tourists and home to major businesses. Advertisement The use of drones in the area has already been banned, and schools, vendors and businesses have been ordered to shut down. Meanwhile, Yoon did not attend the reading of the decision, that formally removed him from his office. How did we get here? On the fateful day of December 3, 2024, the South Korean president declared martial law in the country, leaving the citizens, political opponents and his own party members surprised. At that time he claimed that he was declaring martial rule to save the country from North Korean sympathisers, alluding to the South Korean opposition party leaders. However, people saw it as a manoeuvre to deal with his political enemies, as a strong opposition in parliament has increasingly hamstrung him. The events that followed were, the South Korean national legislature unanimously ended the martial law in the country, impeached the president and Yoon was later charged with insurrection. The opposition later used a parliamentary majority to impeach Yoons second-in-command acting President Han Duck-soo. In January this year, Yoon was arrested by the South Korean police and was only released in March after his detention was overturned on technical grounds. Since then, South Korea has been steeped in political turmoil with people becoming more and more divided on the matter. Many are now hoping that judgment would bring some closure to the ongoing crisis. Advertisement It is pertinent to note that a ruling from the Constitutional Court cannot be appealed. On the eve of the Constitutional Courts ruling, South Koreas interim leader, Han Duck-soo, called on the nation to respect the decision with calm. The government will not tolerate any illegal or violent acts, he said on Wednesday, urging politicians not to incite violence. This is a time to put the stability and fate of our community ahead of political interests," he concluded. Sri Lanka may miss its 2028 deadline to clear landmines planted by the LTTE, as the Trump administrations aid suspension puts demining efforts at risk. This move casts doubt on Sri Lankas commitment to the Ottawa Treaty, which it signed in 2017. read more Thavarathnam Pushparani fought on the front lines for the now-defeated Tamil Tiger rebels against the Sri Lankan forces in its decadeslong separatist war and later took to clearing the land mines on the same battle lines. But the Trump administrations suspension of aid threatens Sri Lankas demining operations, pushing the livelihoods of thousands like Pushparani into uncertainty. What is more uncertain for Sri Lanka now is its obligation to rid the island nation of mines by 2028 under the Ottawa Treaty, which it ratified in 2017. Advertisement Pushparani has experienced the civil war in its full fury. In her family, her husband, father and two brothers died fighting for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, as the rebel group was formally known. Two other siblings are missing. She was born in eastern Sri Lanka and while still in school, her family had to move to the northern parts of the nation after a countrywide ethnic pogrom against minority Tamils by majority Sinhala mobs in 1983. The incident stirred up emotions among many Tamil youth who joined militant organizations to fight for an independent state for the Tamils. Pushparani too joined the Tamil Tigers while still a teenager in school. Because the whole of my family was with the organization they arranged my marriage. My eldest daughter was born in 1990 and the younger one was born in 1992. My husband died in battle in 1996 and my children were raised in the Sencholai home, run by the organization, said Pushparani. She was reunited with her children when the fighting ended in 2009 and started working with demining groups for a living. Funds pending review Demining operations in Sri Lanka started in 2002 during a ceasefire period and the U.S. has been the major donor among 11 countries supporting the effort, contributing about 34% of the $250 million grants received for the projects so far. The U.S. contribution was 45% of the grants received last year, according to M.M Nayeemudeen, director of the state-run National Mine Action Center. Thanks to the international generosity, the demining operations continue to date despite being interrupted for a few years because of the break down of the ceasefire. They have so far managed to clear more than 2.5 million anti-personnel, anti-tank, small arms ammunition and unexploded ordnance. Advertisement Out of 254 square kilometers of land that originally needed to be cleared, only about 23 square kilometers are left to deal with. Whether that can be achieved by the 2028 deadline will depend on continued funding. Nayeemudeen said once the aid suspension was announced, Sri Lankas foreign ministry appealed and the U.S allowed the usage of its allocated funds pending a review, a decision on which is expected on May 1. We hope that on completion of the 90-day review period that commenced from Jan. 24, 2025, the U.S government funding assistance will continue, said Ananda Chandrasiri head of Delvon Assistance for Social Harmony, one of the four demining groups operating in the country. Otherwise it will create a grave problem for Sri Lanka to achieve mine-free status by the end of 2027 as targeted A huge reduction of staffing levels of the four operators would be inevitable. It looked like perfumed powder There are around 3,000 workers, most of them recruited from among the civil war-affected communities. With the uncertainty, some groups have already started terminating their staff, Nayeemudeen said. Sri Lankas civil war ended in 2009 when government troops crushed the Tamil Tiger rebels, ending their quarter-century separatist campaign. According to conservative U.N. estimates, about 100,000 people were killed in the conflict. Advertisement Civilian properties were demined, but large areas were still contaminated when hundreds of thousands of civilians who were displaced by the conflict came back to resettle. Mine awareness campaigns were held, but there were many accidents. Kumarakulasingham Dinojan has lost his left hand below his wrist and has damaged fingers in his right hand from a mine blast. As a 9-year-old boy, he tried to open a metal container that he found in the woods. His brother, who was playing with him, also suffered wounds. My grandmother went into the woods to get firewood and we also followed her. We did not know that she had reached home through another way. We found a container which looked like a perfumed powder, and when we tried to open it, it exploded, said Dinojan. There were people who were injured or killed trying to open mines and use the explosives for fishing. Vidya Abhayagunawardena, coordinator of the Sri Lanka Campaign to Ban Land Mines, said its critical for Sri Lanka to ratify Protocol V on Explosive Remnants of War. He also called for the enactment of domestic legislation to enforce the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, ratified in 2016, to bolster the legal rights of the countrys disabled population. Advertisement Dinojans older brother, Vilvaraj Vinothan, said his brothers becoming land mine victims made him take action and become involved in mine clearance. He has worked with the Mine Advisory Group for six years. Only when the land was being cleared that I understood how we should deal with the mines, he said. Thats when I decided to help, knowing it would benefit the entire community. Pushparani is grateful that her demining income has allowed her to fulfill her familys needs. She financed one daughters university education and her marriage. However, she also cares for a daughter injured in crossfire and an elderly mother. The reason for my choosing demining for livelihood is not only because of poverty. I also have a desire to see this land to be free of mines, she said. I dont want to see our future generations being injured or affected by war. I can say that I am carrying the burden of both my family and of the country on my shoulders. Advertisement My Administration has been working very hard on a Deal to SAVE TIKTOK, and we have made tremendous progress. The Deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an Executive Order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days, said Trump on Truth Social read more Tik Tok logo is displayed on the smartphone while standing on the US flag in this illustration picture taken on November 8, 2019. Reuters File President Donald Trump on Friday extended by 75 days a deadline for Chinese technology company ByteDance to sell U.S. assets of popular short video app TikTok to a non-Chinese buyer or face a ban that was supposed to have taken effect in January under a 2024 law. Taking to Truth Social, Trump said, My Administration has been working very hard on a Deal to SAVE TIKTOK, and we have made tremendous progress. The Deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an Executive Order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days. Advertisement Trump had set the deadline in January and was supposed to have expired tomorrow (Saturday). We hope to continue working in Good Faith with China, who I understand are not very happy about our Reciprocal Tariffs (Necessary for Fair and Balanced Trade between China and the U.S.A.!). This proves that Tariffs are the most powerful Economic tool, and very important to our National Security! We do not want TikTok to go dark. We look forward to working with TikTok and China to close the Deal. Thank you for your attention to this matter! Trump added. China is now subject to a 54% tariff on goods imported into the US after Trump announced a 34% increase this week, leading to Chinas retaliation on Friday. Trump has indicated he might reduce tariffs on China to facilitate a deal for ByteDance to sell TikTok, which is used by 170 million Americans. Trump mentioned that his administration is in contact with four different groups regarding a potential TikTok deal, although he has not disclosed their identities. A significant hurdle for any agreement concerning TikToks US operations is the need for approval from the Chinese government. China has yet to publicly commit to allowing a sale, and Trumps remarks hint at renewed Chinese resistance. Congress passed the measure last year with overwhelming bipartisan support, as lawmakers cited the risk of the Chinese government exploiting TikTok to spy on Americans and carry out covert influence operations. Democratic then-President Joe Biden signed it into law. Some lawmakers have said Trump must enforce the law, which had required TikTok to stop operating by January 19 unless ByteDance had completed a divestiture of the apps US assets. Trump began his second term as president on January 20 and opted not to enforce it. The Justice Department earlier told Apple and Google that it would not enforce the law, which led them to restore the app for new downloads. Advertisement The new Trump order will set a mid-June deadline for a deal. The White House-led talks on the future of TikTok are coalescing around a plan for the biggest non-Chinese investors in parent company ByteDance to increase their stakes and acquire the apps U.S. operations, Reuters has reported. The plan entails spinning off a U.S. entity for TikTok and diluting Chinese ownership in the new business to below the 20 percent threshold required by U.S. law, rescuing the app from a looming U.S. ban, sources have told Reuters. Jeff Yass Susquehanna International Group and Bill Fords General Atlantic, both of which are represented on ByteDances board, are leading discussions with the White House, Reuters has reported. Walmart is also considering joining a group of investors in a deal for TikTok, an ABC News reporter said on social media. The big retailer, which had expressed an interest in investing in TikTok in 2020, did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Advertisement With inputs from agencies American allies in Europe have constantly pressed Trump to take a hard stance against Russia, even as the US administration engages in intensive talks with Moscow to bring an end to the three-year-old conflict. A ceasefire regarding energy infrastructure was reached between Russia and Ukraine last month but allegations of violations continue to flow from both sides read more US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Friday (April 4) warned that President Donald Trump wont be drawn into the trap of endless negotiations with Moscow over ending the war in Ukraine. While speaking in Brussels after meeting with Nato allies, Rubio said it would soon become clear whether Russia was serious about peace. President Trump is not going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations about negotiations, Rubio was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. We will know soon enough in a matter of weeks, not months whether Russia is serious about peace or not. Advertisement American allies in Europe have constantly pressed Trump to take a hard stance against Russia, even as the US administration engages in intensive talks with Moscow to bring an end to the three-year-old conflict. A ceasefire regarding energy infrastructure was reached between Russia and Ukraine last month but allegations of violations continue to flow from both sides. Trump frustrated Since assuming office, Trump has prioritised talks with Russia, reportedly forcing Ukraine to concede territorial concessions and dragging Kyiv to the negotiating table even as Russia continues to pound Ukrainian cities. However, Trump has reportedly voiced frustration with Russian officials too, citing lack of progress. Last month, Russian leader Vladimir Putin rejected a US-Ukrainian proposal for a full, unconditional ceasefire and tied any truce in the Black Sea to Western sanctions relief. Rubio on Friday said Ukraine had shown willingness to agree to a full ceasefire and further negotiations. The Russians and Putin will have to make a decision about whether theyre serious about peace or not, Rubio said. If its a delay tactic, the presidents not interested in that. Last week, Trump in an interview with NBC said he was very angry, pissed off with Putin over lack of progress in peace talks. Trump further warned he will impose secondary tariffs on Russian oil if they are unable to make a deal. Trump said that if Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russias fault then he would impose secondary tariffs on all oil coming out of Russia. Advertisement Putins proposal Putin last week proposed to temporarily put Ukraine under external governance as part of efforts to reach a peaceful settlement, in remarks that reflected the Kremlin leaders determination to achieve his war goals. In televised remarks broadcast early Friday, Putin reaffirmed his claim that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, whose term expired last year, lacks the legitimacy to sign a peace deal. Under Ukraines constitution, it is illegal for the country to hold national elections while its under martial law. Putin claimed that any agreement that is signed with the current Ukrainian government could be challenged by its successors and said new elections could be held under external governance. (With inputs from agencies) The UN experts urged Pakistan not to proceed with plans to forcibly remove Afghans from the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, nor to deport them to Afghanistan. read more Afghan refugee children sit on a truck loaded with belongings as they along with their families prepare to return home, after Pakistan gives the last warning to undocumented immigrants to leave. File Image- Reuters UN experts on Friday urged Pakistan to stop plans for the forced deportation of Afghans and to immediately stop mass relocations, arrests, evictions and intimidation aimed at pressuring them to leave the country. They specifically called on Pakistan not to expel Afghans from Islamabad and Rawalpindi or force them across the border into Afghanistan. We urge Pakistan to immediately stop mass internal relocations, deportations, arrests, evictions, intimidation, and other pressures on Afghans to cross the border into Afghanistan, and to uphold the absolute and non-derogable principle of non-refoulement, the experts said. Advertisement They also raised concerns over the gendered and intersectional impact of the policy. The UN experts have repeatedly criticised Pakistans Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan of September 2023, which has already compelled hundreds of thousands of Afghans to leave the country. A statement issued in Geneva said that the deadline for their voluntary departure was set for March 31, but some local reports said it may have been extended until April 10. However, there is no official word about it. The experts called on the government of Pakistan to continue its role as a neighbouring country with a long history of hosting Afghans fleeing their country. Millions of Afghans in Pakistan are at risk of being pushed back to Afghanistan without regard for their genuine protection concerns including gender-based violence and the systemic dismantling of the rights of women and girls in violation of international human rights law and refugee law, and disregarding UNHCRs non-return advisory, the experts said. Pakistan had set March 31 as the deadline for about 1.3 million refugees having Afghan Citizen Cards and those residing illegally to leave voluntarily, threatening mass deportations after that. The Afghan side has urged Pakistan to show leniency and relax the deadline but Islamabad has not announced any extended deadline. With inputs from agencies Advertisement US President Donald Trump sacked six staffers of Mike Waltzs National Security Council after holding a meeting with far-right activist Laura Loomer in the Oval Office, where she presented an opposition research report read more Right-wing commentator Laura Loomer has suggested that there could be a possible China link to the recent Signal chat leak row. File image/AFP US President Donald Trump fired six national security staffers following a meeting with far-right activist Laura Loomer in the Oval Office. During the fraught meeting, Loomer presented the POTUS with opposition research against some staffers that she claimed were disloyal to his administration, The Guardian reported. Out of the six, four employees were fired overnight and two were removed over the weekend. The whole situation begged the question if Loomer had more influence than the national security adviser, Mike Waltz over his own department. Loomer brought a booklet of papers laying out the perceived disloyalty of about a dozen staffers, including Waltzs principal deputy, Alex Wong. Advertisement The meeting in the Oval Office was attended by JD Vance, the chief of staff Susie Wiles, the commerce secretary Howard Lutnick and Waltz himself. The fired officials included Brian Walsh, the senior director for intelligence who previously worked, for now, Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the Senate intelligence committee; Thomas Boodry, the senior director for legislative affairs who previously served as Waltzs legislative director in Congress; and Maggie Dougherty, the senior director for international organisations, the people close to the matter said. Sacked officials criticised Trump in the past As per the report, the NSC officials had recently criticised Trump on social media and some had ties to Republican establishment figures like senators John McCain and Mitch McConnell, whom Trump despises. However, the firing did not include Wong, the prime target in Loomers report. In the past, Loomer has vilified Wong over the work of his wife, Candice, at the justice department, which involved prosecuting January 6 Capitol rioters. She also publicly suggested that Wong sympathises with the Chinese Communist Party. In the opposition research report, Loomer falsely claimed that it was Wong who deliberately added the Atlantics editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, to the sensitive Signal chat where the Houthi strikes were discussed. However, Waltz has already admitted that it was he who committed the mistake. The effect of Loomers report on Waltz was not clear. He left the White House with Trump on Marine One Thursday, which signalled support from the president, who last week did not fire the NSA over the Signal chat leak scandal. With inputs from agencies. The administration of former president Joe Biden had delayed the sale over concerns they could be used by extremist Israeli settlers read more Israeli soldiers stand next to a military vehicle during an Israeli raid in Jenin, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, on March 4, 2025. Reuters File The Trump administration moved forward with the sale of more than 20,000 US-made assault rifles to Israel last month, according to a document seen by Reuters and a source familiar with the matter, pushing ahead with a sale that the administration of former president Joe Biden delayed over concerns they could be used by extremist Israeli settlers. The State Department sent a notification to Congress on March 6 of the $24 million sale of the Colt Carbine 5.56 mm caliber fully automatic rifles, saying the end user would be the Israeli National Police, according to the document. Advertisement The rifle sale is a small transaction next to the billions of dollars worth of weapons that Washington supplies to Israel. But it drew attention when the Biden administration delayed the sale over concerns that the weapons could end up in the hands of Israeli settlers, some of whom have attacked Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The Biden administration had imposed sanctions on individuals and entities accused of committing violence in the West Bank, which has seen a rise in settler attacks on Palestinians. On his first day in office on January 20, Trump issued an executive order rescinding the sanctions on the settlers in a reversal of U.S. policy. Since then, his administration has approved the sale of billions of dollars worth of weapons to Israel. The March 6 congressional notification said the U.S. government had taken into account political, military, economic, human rights, and arms control considerations. The State Department did not provide comment when asked whether the administration sought assurances from Israel on the use of the weapons. Close ties Since a 1967 Middle East war, Israel has occupied the West Bank, which Palestinians want as the core of an independent state, and has built settlements that most countries deem illegal. Israel disputes this, citing historical and biblical ties to the land. Settler violence had been on the rise prior to the eruption of the Gaza war, and has worsened since the conflict began over a year ago. Trump has forged close ties with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pledging to back Israel in its war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. His administration has in some cases pushed ahead with Israel arms sales despite requests from Democratic U.S. lawmakers that the sales be paused until they received more information. Advertisement The U.S. Senate on Thursday overwhelmingly rejected a bid to block $8.8 billion in arms sales to Israel over human rights concerns, voting 82-15 and 83-15 to reject two resolutions of disapproval over sales of massive bombs and other offensive military equipment. The resolutions were offered by Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, an independent who caucuses with Democrats. The rifle sale had been put on hold after Democratic lawmakers objected and sought information on how Israel planned to use them. The congressional committees eventually cleared the sale but the Biden administration kept the hold in place. The latest episode in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict began with a Hamas attack on Israeli communities on October 7, 2023 with gunmen killing 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Israels campaign has so far killed more than 50,000 Palestinians, Gaza health authorities say. Israels National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, a far-right member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, oversees the Israeli police force. The Times of Israel newspaper reported in November 2023 that his ministry put a heavy emphasis on arming civilian security squads in the aftermath of October 7 attacks. Advertisement Speaking onboard an inspection ship and standing in front of a military chopper alongside Greenlands new prime minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Frederiksen switched from Danish to English to address the ongoing diplomatic row with the Trump administration read more Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen put on a show of unity with Greenlandic leaders during her first visit to the Arctic island since US President Donald Trumps renewed call to take over the island. While addressing the matter, Frederiksen gave out a clear message to the American leader: You cannot annex another country. Speaking onboard an inspection ship and standing in front of a military chopper alongside Greenlands new prime minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Frederiksen switched from Danish to English to address the ongoing diplomatic row with the Trump administration. Advertisement This is about the world order that we have built together across the Atlantic over generations, she said in her address. You cannot annex another country not even with an argument about international security," she furthered. Frederiksen was also flanked by Greenlands outgoing prime minister, Mute B Egede, who has repeatedly said that the island is not for sale. Denmark doesnt mind joining hands with the US to boost security The Danish prime ministers remarks came after a six-hour boat trip on the ocean-patrol vessel HDMS Vdderen with the two Greenlandic leaders, during which they also viewed the area from above in a helicopter. If you want to strengthen security in the Arctic, as we would like, lets do it together, she said in a message to the United States. Denmark and Greenland want to cooperate with the United States, Frederiksen emphasised. If you want to be more present in Greenland, Greenland and Denmark are ready. If you want to strengthen security in the Arctic, as we would like, lets do it together. She accused the Trump administration of subjecting Denmark and Greenland to pressure and threats, she asked: What should we believe about the country we have admired for many years? Meanwhile, Nielsen said: Dialogue is of course the way forward, but it is also a great uncertainty that there is no dialogue now. That is why it is important to have dialogue that is based on respect. The newly-elected Greenlandic prime minister went on to call for unity. Because of the things happening outside the country, we must stand together. Also within the realm, but also in our relationship with our allies," he said. What does the US think of this? In Brussels, the US State Department said Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, had reaffirmed the strong relationship between the US and Denmark during a meeting with Lars Lkke Rasmussen, the Danish foreign minister. After the meeting, Rasmussen noted that he had used this opportunity to state some things on behalf of the Danish kingdom. Advertisement More specifically, these repeated statements from the US president with a vision or ambition to control Greenland are in no way sustainable. It has reached a point where it challenges our sovereignty as a kingdom," he added. It is pertinent to note that these diplomatic manoeuvring took place shortly after US Vice President JD Vance visited Greenland. After a diplomatic outcry, the visit was limited to the US military base Pituffik and did not involve Greenlandic or Danish representatives. As an erstwhile Danish colony, Greenland remains in the kingdom of Denmark, which continues to control the territorys foreign and security policies. However, the island has been demanding its independence for a while, a call which has gained momentum very recently. Mon Monday 96 /68 Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the mid 90s and lows in the upper 60s. TIMELINE Dale Williams case summary Last seen May 27, 1999 at Naturita Family Market, apparently en route to help a stranded motorist and headed toward the Paradox Valley. Age 42, 5-feet-7, with light brown hair, mustache and beard; eyes described as blue or green; last wearing a dark blue T-shirt and blue jeans. Facial scarring under chin, on center of chin, and on each side of face along the jawline; also a birthmark on the left side of the jawbone. Jawbone damage would be visible under an X-Ray. Drove a white, F-250 long bed truck that was found underwater near the confluence of the Dolores and San Miguel rivers on July 4, 1999. Call the Grand Junction regional office of the CBI with tips, 970-248-7500. You can also call the MCSO at 970-249-9110 or Crime Stoppers at 970-249-8500. Access the CBIs cold case database at https://apps.colorado.gov/apps/coldcase/search.html. China's state security authorities apprehend three Filipinos suspected of espionage activities Global Times By Global Times Published: Apr 03, 2025 12:18 PM China's state security authorities have uncovered a case of Filipino espionage and apprehended three Filipino nationals suspected of spying in the country. The investigation revealed that Philippine intelligence agencies have long been focused on gathering information about China's military deployments. David Servanez, a Philippine citizen residing in China, repeatedly visited areas near Chinese military facilities, raising suspicions due to his unusual behavior. After investigation, China's national security authorities discovered that he was being remotely directed by a Philippine handler known as "Herrera," engaging in espionage and intelligence-gathering activities within China. Further investigation revealed that "Herrera" was also directing two other Philippine nationals in China, Albert Endencia and Nathalie Plizardo, to gather sensitive information. Following a thorough investigation and evidence gathering, national security authorities apprehended the three espionage suspects according to law. Security authorities confirmed that Philippine intelligence agencies have long targeted China's military deployments. Since 2021, Richie Herrera, an operative within the Philippine military intelligence agency, recruited David, Albert, and Nathalie as field agents. After providing them with espionage training, Herrera dispatched them to China to carry out covert intelligence missions. The case remains under investigation. China's national security authorities also warned that foreign nationals working or living in China must not engage in espionage under the direction of overseas institutions, organizations, or individuals. In response to media inquiries about the espionage case, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Thursday that China's judicial organs and relevant departments are handling the case strictly in accordance with the law and will protect the legitimate rights and interests of those involved. The spokesperson noticed that the Philippine side has recently fabricated a number of so-called "Chinese spy" cases, making a concerted effort to presume guilt, stigmatize, and politicize the issue despite unclear facts. "China firmly opposes this and has lodged solemn representations on many occasions." China urges the Philippines to stop making groundless accusations and unfounded labels, to handle cases involving Chinese citizens fairly and in accordance with the law, and to genuinely protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese nationals in the country, Guo said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ANALYSIS: How Pro-Kremlin Media Voices Are Spinning The US-Russia Diplomatic Shift By Nathan Hodge April 04, 2025 The United States and Russia are mending fences on the diplomatic front: Kirill Dmitriev, a senior Kremlin adviser and the head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, is now in Washington to advance talks on Ukraine, the first time a senior Russian official has visited the US capital since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. But a fast-moving situation has created cognitive dissonance in Moscow. President Donald Trump's apparent frustration with the progress of peace talks on Ukraine has now bubbled to the surface and the US leader has abruptly tilted his rhetoric against Putin. On March 30, Trump phoned Kristen Welker of NBC News to relay his frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, telling Welker he was "very angry, pissed off" with the Kremlin chief for questioning the credibility of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a press briefing on April 1 that Trump "is frustrated with leaders on both sides of this war." Still, the US president's remarks were a major shift in tone. Trump -- who rarely speaks of Putin in unflattering terms -- has primarily reserved his ire for the Ukrainian president, whether calling him a "dictator" or giving him a public scolding in the Oval Office. Meanwhile, a segment aired on March 31 during the evening news program Vesti on Rossiya-1 state television that suggested a hidden political agenda by NBC News in reporting Trump's comments. "In order to somehow balance the intense pressure on Ukraine, the sympathetic-to-Zelenskyy TV channel NBC News even managed to extract a quote from Trump about his alleged anger toward Putin," the presenter said. TV presenter and propagandist Yevgeny Popov took a slightly different tack, suggesting that Trump was simply diverting domestic attention away from the uproar over the administration's inadvertent sharing of war plans with a journalist in a group chat on the commercial app Signal. "No need to be surprised," Popov said. "The resident of the White House is trying to drown out the scandal around the leak of information about strikes on the Huthis through the Signal messaging app." Such messaging, however, is a departure from the celebratory tone on Russian state TV that followed the dust-up in the Oval Office with Zelenskyy. And Trump's promises to take a harder line with Putin if Russia fails to deliver on promises may temper some expectations of a grand rapprochement with the United States. To be sure, parsing remarks made on Russian state media is an imperfect way to gauge the prospects for US-Russia relations or Putin's willingness to strike a deal with Trump. Russian state media are generally seen as a reliable barometer of what Putin is thinking and relay the Kremlin's daily talking points to the Russian public, but Putin himself sits atop a closed decision-making apparatus. Perhaps more telling than the spin about Trump on Russian state television is the stream of vitriol being directed at Europe by some of the Kremlin's top propagandists, particularly as European nations close ranks. In remarks that followed the US-Russia deal to halt the use of military force in the Black Sea, TV host and arch-propagandist Vladimir Solovyov gloated that the "godless" Europeans did not have a place at the talks in Riyadh. "For Trump, Putin is completely understandable: the leader of a nation close in his fundamental values and set of basic values. Who is confronting him?" Solovyov said. "For Trump, Europe is an enemy." In a recent interview on CNN, Russian nationalist ideologue Aleksandr Dugin also took aim at Europe, speculating, "If for example Trump would withdraw the United States from the war against us in Ukraine, there could be a situation where we fight against European globalists, European liberals in Ukraine without America." One might question the wisdom of giving a platform to a man known for genocidal rhetoric (disclosure: the author previously worked for CNN), but the upshot was clear. Russian propaganda has fixed on Europe as a threat, particularly amid talk of a "willing" coalition to support Ukraine or even send peacekeepers. The phrase "popping champagne in Moscow" has become a popular shorthand for US policymaking decisions that appear to favor Putin. It's perhaps an unconscious reference to the moment when firebrand Russian ultra-nationalist Vladimir Zhirinovsky hoisted glasses of Abrau-Durso sparkling wine to celebrate the 2016 election victory of Trump. But there is, as yet, no garish photo opportunity that Russian state television can now show to explain the conflicting signals from Washington. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/analysis-kremlin- media-voices-spinning-us-russia-shift/33372719.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Saudi Arabia Condemns Israeli National Security Minister's Storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque, Israeli Occupation Forces' Targeting of UNRWA Clinic Saudi Press Agency Riyadh, April 02, 2025, SPA -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's condemnation in the strongest terms possible of the Israeli Minister of National Security's storming of the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque under the protection of the occupation police and the expulsion of worshippers from the mosque. The Kingdom reiterates its denunciation of the continued blatant Israeli transgressions against the sanctity of the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The ministry also expresses the Kingdom's condemnation of the Israeli occupation forces' targeting of a clinic affiliated with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in the Jabalia camp, north of the Gaza Strip, and denounces the continued targeting of UN and relief organizations and their workers by the Israeli occupation forces. The Kingdom condemns these ongoing Israeli violations of international law and international humanitarian law and affirms its categorical rejection of any measures that would undermine the historical and legal status of Jerusalem and its holy sites. The Kingdom also stresses the need to protect UN and relief organizations and their personnel and calls on the international community to put an end to the Israeli war machine, which continues to disregard humanitarian values, international laws and norms, and to hold the Israeli occupation authorities accountable for all their violations. The Kingdom cautions once again that the international community's failure to deter such serious and ongoing violations will diminish the chances of achieving the desired peace, diminish the credibility and legitimacy of the norms of international law, and reflect negatively on regional and international security and stability. --SPA 21:47 Local Time 18:47 GMT 0031 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address April 3, 2025 Release Advance Underwater Communication for the Future of Naval Operations: A Call for Solutions Funding opportunities are available in the AUKUS Maritime Innovation Challenge 2025 for commercial technologies to solve undersea and information warfare issues. As the second collaboration launched between the U.S.'s Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), Australia's Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA), and the UK's Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), the tri-national AUKUS Maritime Innovation Challenge 2025 is seeking commercial companies with solutions that will enhance the tactical and operational capabilities of undersea command, control and communications while maintaining the integrity and security of communication for sea vehicles, even in the harshest underwater conditions. In an era where technological advancement is key to maintaining global maritime security, the AUKUS nations Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States are spearheading the next frontier in underwater warfare. Through AUKUS Pillar II, DIU is seeking commercial solutions to strengthen warfighting capabilities for the Department of Defense (DoD) by pioneering new systems that will maximize lethality of uncrewed maritime operations and enhance decision-making readiness in real-time across the underwater domain. Following the conclusion of the inaugural AUKUS EW Challenge in September 2024 that focused on Electronic Warfare (EW) technologies to strengthen deterrence, the second effort in the series that is being launched today, is centered on maritime autonomy and undersea warfare. Autonomous systems are essential for gaining operational advantage in complex environments such as undersea zones, where national interests and critical infrastructure are at stake. AUKUS is seeking solutions that will drive next-generation communications systems, empowering autonomous platforms to operate safely, efficiently, and with maximum operational impact. This solicitation is looking to rapidly speed and scale solutions that will enhance the sensing, interpreting, and navigating capabilities of autonomous platforms to provide an operational advantage in all environments. Solutions should deliver advantages across capabilities such as: Providing near real-time communications between undersea vehicles (UVs). Providing near real-time communications from UVs to Command and Control (C2) Systems/Battle Management Systems (BMS). Providing near real-time communications between seabed systems to UVs, C2 Systems, and BMS. Providing a system that can optimally allocate the right asset to the right task in a dynamic and complex environment. Providing optimal bandwidth utilization and effective range, and perform in a contested/congested environment. Key Dates and Funding: Across the AUKUS alliance there is a combined $9 million USD; expected to fund 3-10 proposals. Applications close at noon pacific time on April 28. Eligibility: Technology model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment - Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6. Click here to learn more about the DIU AUKUS solicitation opportunity. https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/4144806/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address April 3, 2025 By Army Maj. Wes Shinego, DOD News Eucom, Africom Leaders Testify on Lethality, Global Deterrence Army Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli, commander of U.S. European Command and Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and Marine Corps Gen. Michael E. Langley, commander of U.S. Africa Command, appeared today before the Senate Armed Services Committee to detail how their commands ensure lethality, warfighting readiness, deterrence and peace through strength. Their testimonies reflected Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's focus on building combat-capable forces and modernizing to meet evolving threats while maintaining a strong posture against adversaries like Russia and China. They also addressed critical challenges across Europe and Africa. Warfighting Insights From Ukraine The hearing opened with an examination of the Ukraine conflict, now in its third year, and its lessons for U.S. warfighting. Cavoli said the military honed its lethality by studying the war's technical and operational dynamics. He noted extensive efforts to adapt tactics, particularly in countering Russian electronic warfare and shifting to smaller, more agile drones at lower echelons, enhancing battlefield flexibility. He underscored the conflict's scale, with Russia losing over 4,000 tanks, rivaling the U.S. Army's total holdings. "I did not anticipate Ukraine to be able to destroy so much of Russia's warfighting capability," Cavoli said. He detailed Ukraine's strengths, including its hold on Russian territory in Kursk despite North Korean reinforcements and its success in stalling Russian advances in Donetsk with fortified defenses. This, he suggests, reinforces deterrence by demonstrating the cost of aggression. Nuclear Deterrence and NATO's Strength Questions turned to NATO's nuclear deterrence, which is vital to Eucom's mission of maintaining peace through overwhelming strength. Cavoli described his dual roles and detailed a streamlined command process in which he controls nuclear forces in Europe and, if ordered, deploys them under NATO's consensus, ensuring a rapid, lethal response. "We would want those under the command of a U.S. officer," he said, stressing the importance of American leadership in preserving this deterrent. Cavoli's testimony affirmed a deterrence posture that leaves no doubt about NATO's lethal resolve, rooted in over seven decades of success. Countering Russian and Chinese Aggression The generals addressed Russian and Chinese threats beyond Ukraine, focusing on deterrence through lethal presence. Cavoli highlighted Russia's Arctic expansion, with new airfields enabling strikes across the polar cap the shortest path to U.S. territory and the Northern Fleet's attempts to penetrate the Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdom gap with submarine-launched cruise missiles threatening the Atlantic. Russia's loss of its Syrian naval base in the Mediterranean has diminished its warfighting reach, though Cavoli noted its pursuit of North African alternatives, which Eucom works to counter. Langley tackled China's growing influence in Africa, pointing to its fortified base in Djibouti and efforts to secure Atlantic sites, which could potentially alter the U.S. defense calculus. He stressed Africom's role in denying China these footholds. Both generals emphasized the importance of peace through strength Cavoli through Eucom's naval deterrence, Langley through partnerships that bolster regional stability ensuring adversaries face a united, lethal front. Lethality Against Terrorism in Africa Langley discussed Africom's operations against terrorism. He described intensified airstrikes on al-Shabab, bolstered by new authorities that enhance lethality. "We're hitting them hard. I have now the capability to hit them harder," he said, noting their ties with Yemen's Houthis as a lethal escalation. Langley also warned of broader terrorist networks, referencing the January 2025 New Orleans attack as proof of their reach if unchecked, and highlighted ISIS's growing presence in Somalia and the Sahel region of Africa, with Somalia's networked operations posing a particular challenge. He said Africom's exercises with over 40 African nations strengthen partner alliances and amplify deterrence. Peace Through Strength and Leadership The generals underscored U.S. leadership as essential to deterrence and peace, aligning with goals to leverage alliances for combat effectiveness. "I see it every day; our allies crave our leadership and are stronger with it, and they're stronger for us," Cavoli said, citing historical examples, such as Ukraine's support in Iraq, to illustrate how U.S. strength inspires allied resolve. Langley emphasized Africom's role in convening lethal coalitions, with over 40 countries joining exercises to counter threats like China's illicit fishing and enhancing regional warfighting capacity. When pressed on potential command consolidation, Langley noted terrorism's rise from 2% to 43% of global activity since 2007, arguing for Africom's distinct mission. Cavoli highlighted Africa's growing challenges, reinforcing the need for specialized, lethal commands to maintain peace through strength. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kuwait - Upgrade and Recertification of PATRIOT Missiles Media/Public Contact: pm-cpa@state.gov Transmittal No: 24-129 WASHINGTON, April 3, 2025 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Kuwait of the Upgrade and Recertification of PATRIOT Missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $400 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today. The Government of Kuwait has requested to buy equipment and services required to upgrade and recertify PATRIOT PAC-2 Guidance Enhancement Missiles (GEM) and recertify PATRIOT Guidance Enhancement Missiles-Tactical (GEM-T). The following non-MDE items will be included: sustainment maintenance; special tools, support, and test equipment; repair parts; modification kits; common tools; shop equipment and fixtures; material handling equipment; test support; stockpile reliability testing and inspection; repair and return support; spare parts; training; replacement materials; support from field service representatives, technicians, mechanics, and other support personnel; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $400 million. This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East. The proposed sale will improve Kuwait's capability to meet current and future threats by assisting in maintaining higher levels of operational readiness while meeting its modernization and professionalization plans. Kuwait will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. The principal contractor will be RTX Corporation, located in Letterkenny, PA. At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor. Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of 5 to 8 additional U.S. Government or U.S. contractor representatives to travel to Kuwait periodically over a 15 to 20 year period to assist with maintenance and sustainment operations. There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale. The description and dollar value are for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded. All questions regarding this proposed Foreign Military Sale should be directed to the State Department's Bureau of Political Military-Affairs, Office of Congressional and Public Affairs, pm-cpa@state.gov. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Informal Foreign Affairs Council Defence: remarks by High Representative Kaja Kallas after the meeting European External Action Service (EEAS) 03.04.2025 Warsaw, 03/04/2025 EEAS Press Team Check against delivery! Thank you dear Wadysaw [Kosiniak-Kamysz, Deputy Prime Minister-Minister of National Defence]. Thank you for hosting us here in Warsaw today. Thank you for last night's dinner. Everybody was very happy with the event. We have just concluded a productive meeting of European Union Defence Ministers, and I would like to share some points with you dear journalists. First, on Ukraine. Europe, the United States and, most of all, Ukraine want this war to end. It has been nearly four weeks [since] Ukraine agreed to [an] unconditional ceasefire. Since then, Russia has stalled attempts to reach a peaceful resolution. To end the war, we must strengthen our support for Ukraine. We all agree on this. And I am pleased to see that following our ongoing discussions several European Union Member States have made new pledges in recent days. France has announced an additional 2 billion in support; Germany has committed up to 12 billion for the next years and Sweden has pledged 1.4 billion in military aid. These contributions are not just numbers, the money will save lives. We see Russia bombing Ukraine every day, and every day, also people lose their lives. On the European Union's side, we are prioritising providing 2 million rounds of artillery ammunition for Ukraine this year, as requested by President Zelenskyy. This is both realistic, but it is also achievable. We can do this together will all the European allies. And today's discussions have helped refine our plans. Ministers also discussed how the European Union can support security guarantees for Ukraine alongside the coalition of the willing. The European Union has many tools at its disposal, from funding Ukraine's defence industry to expanding training programs for Ukrainian soldiers and also tightening sanctions that put pressure on Russia - because the strongest security guarantee is a strong Ukrainian military. We also discussed the Europeans' own defence. Russia will remain a long-term threat to the European Union, no matter the outcome of its war in Ukraine. So, strengthening Europe's own defence capabilities is also crucial. The best way to prevent a war is to be unmistakably ready to win one. The White Paper on Defence outlines a clear path forward. It includes freeing up to 800 billion for defence, pooling resources for joint [defence] projects, and deepening cooperation with partners. Filling critical capability gaps, like drones, air defence, Artificial Intelligence, [or] cyber security, must be a priority. NATO, of course, remains the cornerstone of our collective defence, and enhancing European capabilities will further strengthen NATO's alliance. On Friday, that is tomorrow, NATO's Foreign Ministers will hold their first ever dedicated session on European defence. I look forward to briefing them also on these efforts, on what we have agreed on among European Union's Members. Because today's security challenges are too big for any country or organisation to tackle alone. We have to do this together; we are much stronger together. Thank you again, dear Wadysaw, for hosting us today. Link to the video: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-269739 Q&A Q. I would like a follow-up on these 2 million ammunitions rounds for Ukraine. Before you were saying that you have different proposals and different countries that are offering to participate in this. Could you please elaborate? You were talking about over 50%: is it going to be over 50% after today's discussions? The important thing is that Ukraine gets the ammunition and gets it very fast. We had the discussions inside the room on what different countries are delivering. Some have issues with putting these under this initiative, but I do not mind. I think it is important that Ukraine gets the help they need. President Zelenskyy has said they need 2 million rounds; it is around 5 billion. And countries are stepping up, like I say, coming [up] with 2 billion from France, 12 billion [from Germany]. It is of course over [the span of] some years. There were other countries inside the room who were saying that they would also put this money into the use of Ukraine and the sums, but I will let them announce it themselves. I think it is fair like this. It is important, [because] if we count those contributions in, then we are able to do these 2 million rounds in a the short term - and that is important. That is what Ukraine needs. Q. Are you surprised it has taken the Council so long to deal with this? When would you like to see this implemented? Would I like it to be faster? Yes, but we are 27 democracies, and it is quite a complicated structure. Coming from Estonia, where things took less time. But before that, I was in private practise, and I can tell things were much faster there. So, the frustration, personally, is that things take time, but democracy takes time, and we actually have to have these thorough discussions, so we have everybody on board. When we start them, it is clear what we have agreed on. So yes, on our side we are of course pushing things to go faster, but we cannot compromise also on the debates that actually add value to the proposals. Q. Is Secretary Rubio's message that all EU NATO members need to be part of a path to spending 5% GDP on defence realistic? And the second question, were there any recent changes in EC EU funding for the internet satellite for Ukraine? There was a recommendation in the White Paper, but my question is: has any increase happened already? Of course, we have been in the meeting, so I have just gotten the information of the statements. I think it is positive what the [US] Secretary of State Marco Rubio says, that US is with NATO and is not planning to leave NATO or anything. So, they are strong allies, and they are there - like they have been for 75 years before. On the second message - that European allies should spend more - that has been a long call of the American leadership, to spend more and also shoulder much more burden on the European side. What is positive is that we have actually heard that message and we are doing more. There are countries who are planning to spend 5%, but it is also important that everybody hits the targets that we have set so far. It is clear that we are in this very difficult situation where we need to spend more on defence. I would not focus so much on the numbers but on the capabilities that we talked about today as well. What more we can do together, how we see defence, regionally, so that we cooperate because it is not a national [issue] anymore. It is about protecting and defending Europe. So that is why we have proposed the White Paper on how to move forward. But the question is on implementation, and of course the investments done there are also contributing to the national targets which are increasing the overall defence spending for Europe. So, I think it is important that Europe does more, and the United States has been very clear about this. Countries like Poland, or the Baltic states have really invested, but not all the European countries. I think this call is very clear [on the fact] that we need to do more, and we have heard that message, too. On the satellite, it is clear that all these defence capabilities are linked to the satellites. Today we also discussed how we develop our capabilities in this regard [so] that there are no dependencies. But [about] clear commitments when it comes to monetary contributions, I cannot say that right now. It is clear that the need is there, and we need to do more so that we have the capabilities like satellite connections. Link to the video: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-270320 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rapid Deployment Capacity: EU carries out live military exercise to enhance crisis management European External Action Service (EEAS) 03.04.2025 Strategic Communications The European Union is carrying out its third "Live Exercise" (LIVEX) in Papa Airbase and Bakony Training Area, Hungary, from 25 March to 10 April. The exercise prepares the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC) as the Operational Headquarters (OHQ), Eurocorps as the Force Headquarters (FHQ) and the German-led EU Battlegroup (EUBG25) for the early planning and execution phase of an independent EU Crisis Management Operation using the EU Rapid Deployment Capacity (EU RDC). This multinational exercise in Hungary will be conducted under the command of the MPCC and Eurocorps. A total of 850 soldiers from 13 EU Member States* will participate in the LIVEX. The exercise is designed to test interoperability in planning and conducting operations across all levels: Strategic Level: The Operations Headquarters in Brussels, directed by the MPCC. Operational Level: The Force Headquarters, under the leadership of Eurocorps, based mainly at Papa Airbase and reinforced by a company providing force protection. Tactical Level: The EU Battlegroup (EUBG) deployed in Bakony Training Area. Germany contributes with the Core Battlegroup, led by the Mountain Infantry Battalion 231, along with medical components of a Medical Task Force and supported by a Combat Service Support Battalion. On 10 April, the Distinguished Visitors Day will display the Reception, Staging, and Onward Movement (RSOM) of forces deployed in response to a fictional crisis scenario. The programme will feature demonstrations of the EUROCORPS Forward Headquarters and the capabilities of EUBG25, including combat vehicles and their crews. Background The Strategic Compass for Security and Defence emphasises the EU's commitment to being a stronger and more capable security provider, both in its neighbourhood and beyond. The EU Rapid Deployment Capacity framework enables rapid, robust, and effective responses to conflicts and crises outside its borders, involving up to 5,000 troops and integrating land, air, maritime, space, and cyber components. As part of these efforts, the EU is strengthening the MPCC as the preferred command and control structure for the EU RDC. MILEX 25 commenced with an alert exercise (ALERTEX) from the 4 to 6 March, where the MPCC prepared the plan for a swift reaction of EU Member State's military forces to a fictional crisis. This incorporated procedures from the political level all the way down to the tactical level. *Austria, Belgium, Croatia, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Spain and Sweden. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson BG Effie Defrin-April 3, 2025 IDF Press Release April 3, 2025 03.04.25 IDF Good evening, Tonight, I wish to update you on the IDF's operations in the various arenas, with an emphasis on the expansion of combat in the Gaza Strip. From now on, I will meet you here and provide updates whenever necessary, in accordance with events and developmentswith transparency and professionalism. In recent days, we have progressed to another stage of the renewed operation. The plan serves the objectives of the war - the return of the hostages and the dismantling of Hamas' military and governmental capabilities. The operation began with coordinated air and ground activity. We struck more than 60 terrorist targets in the northern and southern parts of the Gaza Strip to damage Hamas' military and governmental capabilities and to prepare the environment for a ground operation. We have expanded operations in the southern Gaza Strip with the goal of encircling and dividing the Rafah area. In northern Gaza, our troops are operating against terrorist targets, clearing the area, and dismantling terrorist infrastructure. Beyond that, we are maintaining operational ambiguity to surprise the enemy and achieve significant gains - "Our actions will speak for themselves." Since the resumption of operations in the Gaza Strip, we have struck more than 600 terrorist targets across the Gaza Strip and eliminated more than 250 terrorists, including twelve senior members of the Hamas terror organization and its governing arm. They are all terrorists, all of whom took part in the October 7th massacre. We are operating according to a gradual plan with varying intensity. As the Chief of the General Staff said yesterday during his visit to the soldiers in the Gaza Strip: "The only thing that can stop us from continuing our advance is the release of our hostages!" We will not rest until we bring back the 59 hostagesboth the living and the fallenwhose familiesthe parents, siblings, spouses, and childrenhave been waiting for them for a long time. In the Syrian arena, IDF troops operated overnight in southern Syria. The soldiers confiscated and dismantled weapons to prevent the entrenchment of hostile forces that pose a threat to the State of Israel. During the operation, the troops encountered terrorists and eliminated them through ground and air strikes. We are continuing to operate in the security zone that separates Israeli residents from Syria, ensuring the safety of the population. In the Lebanese arena, we continue to act in accordance with the ceasefire and understandings with Lebanon. We hold the Lebanese state responsible for what happens within its territory and will continue to enforce security measures and protect the residents of northern Israel. In Judea and Samaria, IDF troops continue counterterrorism operations, with a focus on the northern Samaria region. This crucial activity directly prevents attacks and terrorist activity. The soldiers operate in a professional manner, achieving significant results that have proven themselves throughout the month of Ramadan. This week, several incidents occurred that did not meet the expected standards of IDF soldiers. The Commanding Officer of the Central Command investigated these incidents, and they were addressed accordingly. During his visit to the soldiers in the field this week, the Chief of the General Staff emphasized the importance of maintaining norms and operational discipline, which are essential for mission success. We will not tolerate situations in which IDF soldiers use force in a manner that does not align with IDF values. Yesterday, during a visit to the Gaza Strip, we met with reserve soldiers from the armored and infantry brigades that were called up. I saw familiar facessoldiers who fought alongside me in the past, completed their mandatory service years ago, and yet many of them continue to serve the country in reserve duty. Most of them have been in combat for a year and a half, leaving behind their families, jobs, and daily routines for the sake of us all. I address all the reserve soldiers as the spokesperson of the IDFyou are our strength, and it is our responsibility to recognize your service and ensure that you receive all the necessary support. As such, and as announced yesterday, resources have been allocated by the government for this purpose. In accordance with the Chief of the General Staff's directive, the IDF is advancing a program, led by the Deputy Chief of the General Staff, to support and reward those who bear the burdenfirst and foremost, the reservists. We all salute you! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemen shoots down U.S. MQ-9 drone IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Apr 3, 2025 The Yemeni Armed Forces announced that they have shot down an American MQ-9 drone over the western city of Al Hudaydah. In a statement on Thursday, the Yemeni Armed Forces said that they have shot down another U.S. MQ-9 drone in the airspace over Al Hudaydah Governorate, as reported by the Lebanon-based news network Al Mayadeen. "This is the second drone we have shot down in the past 72 hours, and the seventeenth drone successfully intercepted by our air defenses during the 'Promised Conquest and Sacred Struggle' campaign in solidarity with Gaza," the statement added. The Yemeni Armed Forces emphasized their continued determination to counter all enemy attempts to undermine their country's sovereignty, affirming that theyalongside the great Yemeni peoplewill persist in their operations in support of Gaza, adding that these operations will not cease unless the aggression against Gaza ends and the blockade is lifted. In a second announcement, the Yemeni Armed Forces declared that multiple branches of their military had conducted a coordinated attack on the U.S. aircraft carrier "Truman" and accompanying warships in the northern Red Sea. The statement said that in retaliation for American aggression, Yemen's naval forces, drone units, and missile command executed an unprecedented joint operation, deploying cruise missiles and drones to target the U.S. carrier "Truman" and other hostile vessels in the region. The United States airstrikes continue in various regions of Yemen, with thecU.S. warplanes reportedly bombing Saada province 27 times in the past 12 hours. The news outlet also reported that an American armed reconnaissance aircraft targeted a vehicle in the Majaz area of Saada in northern Yemen. 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel conducts airstrike on southern Lebanon IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Apr 3, 2025 Israeli warplanes have bombed the town of An-Naqoura in southern Lebanon. Israeli fighter jets carried out multiple bombing raids on the town of An-Naqoura, located in the western part of southern Lebanon, early Thursday, according to the Lebanon-based Al Mayadeen news network. The Israeli warplanes struck the old health center in An-Naqoura three times, and a number of prefabricated houses in the municipality were also targeted. Israel and Hezbollah exchanged cross-border attacks for 13 months in the wake of the regime's genocidal war on the Gaza Strip. Despite a ceasefire struck in November 2024, Israel has kept violating the truce and continued to maintain a military presence at five locations in the south of Lebanon in breach of the deal. 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran condemns Israel's ongoing crimes in occupied Palestine IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Apr 3, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has denounced the ongoing attacks and crimes committed by the racist Israeli regime against the oppressed people of Palestine in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, particularly during Eid al-Fitr. Baqaei strongly condemned the ongoing crimes committed by the Israeli regime against the oppressed people of Palestine, including the targeted assassination of journalists, deliberate attacks on aid workers and medical centers, and the raids on the Al-Aqsa Mosque by extremist Zionist settlers. Referring to a recent report by the United Nations Human Rights Council's Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food, which called for increased pressure on the Israeli regime to stop using hunger and famine as tools of genocide, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized the responsibility of the United Nations human rights mechanisms in this regard. The Foreign Ministry spokesperson also criticized some Western self-styled advocates of human rights, including Britain, Canada, Germany, and France for their inaction against gross and systematic human rights violations. He expressed regret over the humanitarian situation in occupied Palestine, calling it a clear indication of the dishonesty of these countries concerning human rights. Recalling the collective responsibility of all administrations to prevent and confront heinous crimes such as genocide and war crimes in accordance with international law, Baqaei considered the ongoing impunity of the Zionist regime as the primary reason for its brutality and the ongoing killing and occupation in Palestine. He called on all countries, especially those in the Islamic world, to take action against the killing of innocent women and children by showing both verbal and practical solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine. 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO BEGINS NEPTUNE STRIKE 2025-1 NATO Allied Joint Force Command (JFC) Naples Apr 3 2025 MEDITERRANEAN SEA -- NATO officially launched Neptune Strike 25-1 on April 1, 2025, marking one of the first major maritime vigilance activity of the year under Allied command. The opening capabilities demonstration conceptualized NATO's readiness to deter and defend, employing multi-domain capabilities across Europe's southern flank. The start of the Neptune Strike 25-1 was marked by a Media Day aboard Italy's newest amphibious assault ship, the Landing Helicopter Dock Trieste, and at the Teulada Training Area in Sardinia. Hosted by Italian and Spanish naval commanders, the event offered a dynamic display of joint maritime strike operations, amphibious landings, and flight operations. Announcing the official start of Neptune Strike 25-1 were: Italian Rear Admiral Michele Orini, Commander of the Italian Navy 3rd Naval Division and Commander of the Italian Amphibious Task Force (CATF), Italian Rear Admiral Massimiliano Grazioso, Commander of the San Marco Naval Infantry Brigade and Commander of the Italian Landing Force (CLF), as well as Spanish Rear Admiral Isidro Carrara, Joint Force Command Naples, Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans. The Media Day featured several demonstrations ranging from vessel maritime-capabilities, aviation operations, amphibious landing operations, and a dynamic demonstration by the Italian Marine forces. The demonstration served as a scaled visual representation of Neptune Strike 25-1's complex integration of joint high-end maritime strike capabilities that will be taking place over the coming days. "This is the perfect example of NATO's multi-domain approach. Coming from the sea, supported from the air, using the cyber domain by coordinating everything, to deliver massive strike effects on land," said Rear Admiral Carrara. The Trieste, is one of several naval vessels that will be under the operational control of NATO in order to enhance the pace and flexibility of command and control of naval strike and amphibious forces, supporting the deterrence and defence of the Alliance during Neptune Strike 2025-1. The main objectives for Neptune Strike 25-1 are to maintain freedom of navigation and maneuver in NATO's area of operations, to secure strategic maritime chokepoints, to conduct deterrence and vigilance, and to increase the interoperability in operational domains (e.g. the air-land-integration), fostering NATO's capabilities to enable multi-domain operations across Europe. Neptune Strike 25-1, the first iteration of this peacetime vigilance activity for 2025, will take place in April 2025 and will see contributions and participation from Bulgaria, Canada, France, Greece, Italy, Northern Macedonia, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Turkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States. Neptune Strike 25-1 is a long-planned activity conducted in compliance with international law and standards. It is defensive in nature and not directed towards any third party. Story by JFC Naples Public Affairs Office NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Indian and New Zealand navies involved in $181m drug bust in Indian Ocean New Zealand Defence Force The New Zealand-led naval task force in the Indian Ocean continues to seize hauls of illegal drugs with an Indian Navy frigate the latest to intercept smugglers, recovering more than 2.5 tonnes of heroin and hashish. 03 April, 2025 Indian Naval Ship Tarkash, working in direct support to Combined Task Force (CTF 150) under the 46-nation Combined Maritime Force (CMF), seized the drugs while patrolling the western Indian Ocean on Monday. The 121kg of heroin and 2386kg of hashish was discovered when marine commandos from Tarkash boarded a suspect dhow and conducted a thorough search. The drugs were found in various cargo holds and compartments. They were estimated to have a street value of $NZ181 million, bringing the total amount of narcotics seized by CTF 150 under New Zealand command this year to $NZ661m. Tarkash was able to intercept the vessel after receiving information from CTF 150 command and a patrolling Indian Navy P-8I Poseidon aircraft. Tarkash also launched its helicopter to monitor the vessel before it was boarded. The Royal New Zealand Navy's Commodore Rodger Ward, is commander of CTF 150 and says Monday was a great day for the navies involved. "I was very proud of the team and the way they worked together. These are young officers and sailors from multiple nations working together using their training and experience to outwit the smugglers and it's great to see them achieving and celebrating a success." The Indian Navy's Captain Suman Saurabh Sharma is CTF 150 deputy commander and says the seizure demonstrates how effective a multinational partnership can be in working together to disrupt criminal activities. "The professionalism and teamwork shown by all of the CMF nations and the units at sea involved in this operation contributed to our success." Indian Navy ships and aircraft are regularly deployed as part of CMF operations. Tarkash is a Teg class frigate of the Indian Navy, and is part of the Western Fleet under Western Naval Command based at Mumbai. The ship has been deployed to the western Indian Ocean since January, and recently joined CTF 150 in direct support of maritime security operations. Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS Te Kaha is also conducting patrols in the area as part of CTF 150 operations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Nicaragua: UN experts publish groundbreaking report naming 54 officials responsible for systematic repression Press releases Independent investigation 03 April 2025 GENEVA/PANAMA -- The UN Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua today released a landmark report which identifies for the first time dozens of Government, military and ruling party officials it says are responsible for grave human rights violations, abuses and crimes that are fueling an escalating and systematic campaign of repression in Nicaragua. All 54 persons named in the report - which details institutional structures, command chains and individual responsibilities - played key roles in arbitrary detentions, torture, extrajudicial executions, persecution of civil society and the media, denationalization campaigns, and the confiscation of private property. "For the first time, we are revealing how dozens of individuals whom we name are connected to the human rights violations and crimes documented in our previous reports," said Jan-Michael Simon, Chair of the Group. "This report lays bare the anatomy of a governing system that has weaponized every arm of the State against its own people." The 234-page report - based on extensive interviews, verified documentation and confidential sources - includes detailed diagrams mapping the relationships between State and non-state actors within Nicaragua's ruling apparatus. It underscores how Daniel Ortega and his wife Rosario Murillo - who assumed the titles of "co-presidents" following a February 2025 constitutional reform - have built a centralized and repressive regime that has co-opted all branches of Government and blurred the lines between party and State. "What we uncovered is a tightly coordinated system of repression, extending from the presidency down to local officials," said Ariela Peralta, an expert member of the Group. "These are not random or isolated incidents - they are part of a deliberate and well-orchestrated State policy carried out by identifiable actors through defined chains of command." The Experts reiterated their call on the international community to take urgent and concrete measures, including legal action, targeted sanctions, and increased support for victims and civil society. "This report is a roadmap for justice," said Reed Brody, an expert member of the Group. "States, prosecutors, and international institutions now have the names, the structures, and the evidence needed to pursue accountability." The list of named individuals was previously shared confidentially with the Nicaraguan Government, which continues to refuse all cooperation with the Group. On 27 February 2025 - the day before the Group's main report was presented to the Human Rights Council - the Government announced its withdrawal from the Council and all its subsidiary mechanisms. ENDS Read the full report (in Spanish only) here. Background: The Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua is an independent body mandated by the UN Human Rights Council. Established in March 2022, it is tasked to conduct thorough and independent investigations into all alleged human rights violations and abuses committed in Nicaragua since April 2018. The members of the Group of Experts are Jan-Michael Simon (Chair), Ariela Peralta Distefano and Reed Brody. For more information about the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua can be found here. The expert members of the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua were appointed by the President of UN Human Rights Council to gather data on alleged human rights violations, collect unbiased information and provide independent analysis. The experts work on a voluntary basis; they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. While the UN Human Rights Office provides administrative, technical and logistical support to the Group, the experts serve in their individual capacity and are independent from any government or organization, including the UN. Any views or opinions presented herein are solely those of the mandated body and its experts, and do not necessarily represent those of the UN. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Amid escalating horror, UN experts urge States to take concrete action to end impunity for Israel Press releases Special Procedures 03 April 2025 GENEVA -- More States must join the Hague Group, a bloc of states that is coordinating efforts to ensure accountability for Israeli breaches of international law and uphold decisions by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC), a group of independent human rights experts* said today. The Hague Group was established on 31 January 2025, creating a historic precedent demonstrating how States can unite to avert the tangible risk of erosion of the international legal system, the rule of law and the protection of all human rights. That system is being endangered by the general inaction of the international community in the face of the most egregious violations of international law perpetrated by the State of Israel. "At this historical crossroads, protecting the international human rights system requires decisive, principled and concerted action," the experts said. "If States fail to act, the multilateral system will be set back decades". "Since the creation of the State of Israel, violations of international law and lack of accountability have been the norm, rather than the exception," the experts said. "Israel's assault against the Palestinian people, the United Nations and basic tenets of international law, undermines the foundations of the multilateral order." In its groundbreaking July 2024 Advisory Opinion, the ICJ has clarified, once and for all, that the inalienable right to self-determination of the Palestinian people should be realised through total and unconditional withdrawal of Israel's presence from the occupied territories, not subject to negotiation. "It is regrettable that eight months after the ICJ Advisory Opinion, most States continue to ignore their obligations - this may render them complicit with internationally wrongful acts as the court concluded," the experts said. They welcomed efforts by some States since October 2023 to protect human rights and preserve multilateralism, most notably the case filed by South Africa and Nicaragua at the ICJ with third States joining proceedings. The experts also cited referrals on the Situation of Palestine to the ICC by South Africa, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Comoros, Djibouti, Chile and Mexico; the backing of the arrest warrants issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant of November 2024; the revision of diplomatic and economic ties with Israel; reaffirmation of support to UNRWA's mandate and recognition of Palestinian Statehood by some States: Armenia, Bahamas, Barbados, Ireland, Jamaica, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. "So much more remains to be done by policymakers," the experts said. "Against the general inaction, the Hague Group represents a new, flagship platform through which States unite to operationalise their commitment to international law and put an end to Israel's exceptionalism through concrete actions." The founding members of the Hague Group were Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Honduras, Malaysia, Namibia, Senegal and South Africa. These states have committed to implementing the ICJ provisional measures in the case of South Africa v. Israel and complying with the ICC arrest warrants of November 2024. They have also pledged to abide by the ICJ Advisory Opinion of July 2024 by particularly preventing the transfer of arms, munitions and related goods to Israel. The Hague Group will also prevent the docking of vessels under their territorial jurisdiction when there is the risk that they would be used to carry fuel or weapons to Israel. "These commitments are concrete steps to advance the end of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory and remove obstacles to the realisation of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination," the experts said. "They align with the non-derogable obligations of all States under international law." The experts stressed that violations of international law disproportionately impact persons and groups in vulnerable conditions, particularly women and children. "All States have an obligation to prevent harm to civilians and ensure the protection of all individuals without discrimination," they said. "Ensuring accountability for violations is essential to safeguarding fundamental human rights and preserving international peace and security." "We strongly encourage other States to join The Hague Group or articulate similar initiatives and operationalise these actions, if they no longer want to represent the legal, political and moral shield of Israeli atrocities," the experts said. *The expert: Francesca Albanese, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967; Tlaleng Mofokeng, Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health; Jovana Jezdimirovic Ranito (Chair-Rapporteur), Ravindran Daniel, Michelle Small, Joana de Deus Pereira, Andres Macias Tolosa, Working Group on the use of mercenaries; Astrid Puentes Riano, Special Rapporteur on the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment; Attiya Waris, Independent Expert on foreign debt, other international financial obligations and human rights; Pedro Arrojo-Agudo, Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation; Reem Alsalem, Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls, its causes and consequences; George Katrougalos, Independent Expert on the promotion of a democratic and equitable international order; Surya Deva, Special Rapporteur on the right to development ;Paula Gaviria Betancur, Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons; Elisa Morgera, Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of climate change; Siobhan Mullally, Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children; Laura Nyirinkindi (Chair), Claudia Flores (Vice-Chair), Dorothy Estrada Tanck, Ivana Krstic, and Haina Lu, Working group on discrimination against women and girls; and Barbara G. Reynolds, Isabelle Mamadou, Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Special Rapporteurs/Independent Experts/Working Groups are independent human rights experts appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council. Together, these experts are referred to as the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council. Special Procedures experts work on a voluntary basis; they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. While the UN Human Rights office acts as the secretariat for Special Procedures, the experts serve in their individual capacity and are independent from any government or organization, including OHCHR and the UN. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the UN or OHCHR. Country-specific observations and recommendations by the UN human rights mechanisms, including the special procedures, the treaty bodies and the Universal Periodic Review, can be found on the Universal Human Rights Index https://uhri.ohchr.org/en/. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sudan: UN Human Rights Chief appalled by widespread extrajudicial killings in Khartoum Press releases Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights 03 April 2025 GENEVA -- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk on Thursday said he was appalled by reports of widespread extrajudicial killings of civilians in Khartoum following its recapture by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) on 26 March. "I am utterly appalled by the credible reports of numerous incidents of summary executions of civilians in several areas of Khartoum, on apparent suspicions that they were collaborating with the Rapid Support Forces. I urge the commanders of the Sudanese Armed Forces to take immediate measures to put an end to arbitrary deprivation of life," said Turk. "Extrajudicial killings are serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law. Individual perpetrators, as well as those with command responsibility, must be held accountable for such unacceptable actions under international criminal law." The UN Human Rights Office has reviewed multiple horrific videos posted on social media since 26 March, all of them apparently filmed in southern and eastern Khartoum. They show armed men - some in uniform and others in civilian clothes - executing civilians in cold blood, often in public settings. In some videos, perpetrators state that they are punishing supporters of RSF. Reports have attributed the killings to SAF and State security personnel, as well as to SAF-affiliated militias and fighters. In the Janoub Al Hezam area of southern Khartoum, for instance, at least 20 civilians, including one woman, were allegedly killed by SAF and affiliated militias and fighters. Our Office has also documented a disturbing rise in online hate speech and incitement to violence, with lists of individuals accused of collaborating with the RSF posted online. Ethnic groups from the Darfur and Kordofan regions appear to be disproportionately targeted. Turk called, once again, on all parties to take immediate steps to ensure their forces respect the right to life, without distinction, consistent with their obligations under international human rights law and humanitarian law. The High Commissioner also called on Sudan promptly to launch independent, transparent and effective investigations into these incidents in line with relevant international standards, with a view to holding those responsible to account, and ensuring victims' rights to truth and justice. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pakistan Condemns Israel's Acts of Aggression in Gaza Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs The Government of Pakistan in the strongest possible terms condemns the continued aggression and atrocities committed by Israeli occupying forces in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, particularly in Gaza. The indiscriminate violence has claimed thousands of innocent Palestinian lives, including women, children, medical personnel, and humanitarian workers, marking yet another dark chapter in Israel's brutal occupation. Pakistan denounces Israel's latest military offensive aimed at establishing new security corridors, including the illegal seizure of the Morag Corridor and further annexation of Palestinian land. The deliberate targeting of a UN-run clinic in Jabalia, which sheltered over 700 displaced civilians, demonstrates Israel's blatant disregard for international law and humanitarian principles. These actions, coupled with Israel's clear intent to ethnically cleanse Palestinians from their homeland, constitute war crimes under international law. Of particular concern is the sacrilegious storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex by Israeli occupying forces, during the holy occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. This provocative act not only violates the sanctity of one of Islam's holiest sites but also demonstrates Israel's determination to escalate tensions and pursue its expansionist agenda at the expense of regional peace. The massive destruction of civilian infrastructure and forced displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians through relentless bombardment and ground operations are both morally reprehensible and legally indefensible. Such blatant violations of international law must stop forthwith. Pakistan reaffirms its unwavering support for the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and calls for the establishment of an independent, viable and contiguous Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. The international community must act decisively to prevent further loss of innocent lives and preserve the sanctity of holy sites. Islamabad 3 April 2025 88/2025 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Denmark's prime minister sends clear 'hands-off Greenland' message to Trump People's Daily Online By Earle Gale (Chinadaily.com.cn) 11:13, April 03, 2025 Denmark is sending a clear "hands-off Greenland" message to United States President Donald Trump this week, through a three-day visit to the island by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Frederiksen said she wanted her visit to the massive, semi-autonomous Arctic island, which has been part of the Kingdom of Denmark for hundreds of years, to be seen as a show of support for its government, after months of comments from the US about Washington subjugating it. "It has my deepest respect, how the Greenlandic people and the Greenlandic politicians handle the great pressure that is on Greenland," she said. Frederiksen plans to hold talks with Greenland's incoming government during her stay, which is set to end on Friday. Her visit follows one by US Vice-President JD Vance, who turned up at a US military base on Greenland on Friday, despite having been told by both Denmark and Greenland he was not welcome. During his visit, Vance accused Denmark of underinvesting in the territory that Trump told Congress on March 4 he wants to control by "one way or another". Frederiksen's visit comes as Greenland's incoming prime minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, is working to form a coalition government after having won the island's general election on March 11. He has so-far excluded participation in the coalition of the island's only pro-US political party. Nielsen said earlier this week that Frederiksen is welcomed on the island and that, despite strong separatist sentiment there, Denmark will forever remain "Greenland's closest partner". Nielsen, like almost all politicians on the island of 57,000 people, favors Greenland ultimately breaking away from Denmark but has said he is in no hurry to do so, especially with the US apparently waiting to swoop and take control of Greenland and its raw materials and increasingly navigable national waters. The Reuters news agency said ahead of Frederiksen's visit that Nielsen is now hoping to strengthen ties with Denmark, until Greenland is ready to become a sovereign nation. Nielsen has also said Greenland wants to establish a respectful relationship with the United States, Reuters added. "Talking about annexation and talking about acquiring Greenland and not respecting the sovereignty is not respectful," Nielsen added. "So, let's start by being respectful to each other and build up a great partnership on everything." After Trump repeatedly said he wants the US to control Greenland, and after he refused to rule out using military force to do so, Greenland and Denmark have become closer, Peter Viggo Jakobsen, an associate professor at the Danish Defense Academy, told the AP news agency. "Trump has scared most Greenlanders away from this idea about a close relationship with the United States because they don't trust him," Jakobsen said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU plans retaliation against new U.S. tariffs by end of April: French gov't spokesperson People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:52, April 03, 2025 PARIS, April 2 (Xinhua) -- French government spokesperson Sophie Primas said on Wednesday that the European Union (EU) would retaliate, by the end of April, against new tariffs that U.S. President Donald Trump was expected to announce later on Wednesday. Speaking to the press after a Council of Ministers meeting, Primas told reporters that France and the EU have already prepared two responses to Trump's tariffs. "The first, which will take place in mid-April, is a response to the tariffs already announced on steel and aluminum," she said. A second response to the new tariffs, at the European level, would be announced by the end of April after a precise study. She stressed that the European response would be delivered in a "consistent, united and strong way." She noted that the EU has already begun to study which sector of activity would be subject to the retaliatory measures. "We need to be very vigilant about the choice of these sectors of activity, and at the same time very strong and united, because obviously, one of the United States' strategies is to try to disunite us and find points of divergence between European countries," she added. Trump is set to roll out "reciprocal tariffs" on what he called "Liberation Day" this Wednesday, targeting any country that has imposed levies on U.S. goods. The initiative aims to match the tariffs levied by other countries on American goods by imposing equivalent rates on their exports to the United States. However, this approach has drawn widespread criticism for its potential to undermine the established multilateral trade system that has contributed significantly to global prosperity. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Brazil says "reciprocal tariffs" violates U.S. commitments to WTO People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 11:00, April 03, 2025 BRASILIA, April 2 (Xinhua) -- The Brazilian government on Wednesday criticized the United States for imposing an additional 10 percent tariff on all Brazilian exports, saying that the move violates Washington's commitments to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The U.S. trade surplus with Brazil in 2024 amounted to approximately 7 billion U.S. dollars in goods alone, and the surplus reached 28.6 billion dollars last year when goods and services are combined, Brazil's Foreign Ministry said in a statement, noting that "this represents the third-largest trade surplus for the United States worldwide." Given that the United States has recorded recurring and significant trade surpluses of 410 billion dollars in goods and services with Brazil over the past 15 years, the unilateral imposition of an additional 10 percent tariff on Brazil under the justification of restoring balance and ensuring "trade reciprocity" does not reflect reality, the ministry said. "In defending Brazilian workers and businesses, and in line with its strong commitment to the multilateral trading system, the Brazilian government will consult with domestic industries to protect their interests and seek dialogue with the U.S. government," it said. While the government remains open to advancing the dialogue it has established in recent weeks with the United States, Brazil "is evaluating all possible courses of action to ensure reciprocity in bilateral trade, including resorting to the WTO, in defense of Brazil's legitimate national interests," it added. U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order on the so-called "reciprocal tariffs," imposing a 10 percent "minimum baseline tariff" and higher rates on certain trading partners. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Canada says to fight U.S. tariffs with countermeasures People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:03, April 03, 2025 OTTAWA, April 2 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Wednesday that Canada will fight U.S. tariffs with countermeasures. The prime minister promised to act with purpose and force to counter U.S. President Donald Trump's auto tariffs and bring in support for impacted workers. "In a crisis, it's important to come together and it's essential to act with purpose and with force," Carney said, adding that Canada's strategic sectors, like pharmaceuticals, lumber and semiconductors, are facing the U.S. potential threat. Carney said that he will speak with provincial and territorial premiers Thursday morning and detailed countermeasures are expected to be announced then. Canada escaped Trump's reciprocal global tariffs, but a 25 percent tariff on foreign-made cars and light trucks will come into effect at midnight. Duties on several Canadian goods, including non-compliant CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement) products, aluminum and steel, remain in place. Dan Kelly, president and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, said on the social platform X that U.S. tariffs on Canada are "as clear as mud." "I can't believe the whole world is trying to learn where their economies are headed by straining to see a stupid chart held by the President," Kelly said. According to a new survey by his organization, the widespread business disruption caused by U.S.-Canada tariffs is leading Canadian small business owners to shift their suppliers and investments to domestic and international markets other than the United States. The survey found that a third of business owners have already shifted to suppliers or markets within Canada, 27 percent plan to increase their investment in Canada, and the other third intend to reduce efforts in the United States over the next six months. Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association and a member of the Prime Minister's Council on Canada-U.S. Relations, said the auto tariff package will shut down the auto sector in the United States and Canada. "Canadians sighing with relief for not being on this list should remember we still have border tariffs of 25 percent, auto tariffs of 25 percent and steel and aluminum tariffs of 25 percent. Like dodging a bullet into the path of a tank," Volpe said on his X account. Drew Dilkens, mayor of Windsor, the auto capital of Canada in the province of Ontario, said that with thousands and thousands of jobs at stake, he's worried about how hard his city could be hit. "It could be catastrophic," said Dilkens in an interview with local media. "The economic fallout will stretch far beyond Windsor. It would ripple all the way through Ontario. It would ripple all the way through Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky." Calling Trump "an arsonist," Canada's New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh was quoted by local media as saying that the U.S. president is "setting fire to the economy, his own economy, and ours as well." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Japan seriously concerned U.S. reciprocal tariffs not in compliance with WTO rules People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:20, April 03, 2025 TOKYO, April 3 (Xinhua) -- Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi on Thursday expressed "serious concern" about the U.S. decision to impose reciprocal tariffs, questioning its compliance with World Trade Organization rules and a bilateral trade agreement. At a press conference, he said that Tokyo has strongly urged Washington to retract its decision to slap a 24 percent levy on Japanese products as part of the reciprocal tariffs. The U.S. administration's tariff plan could have a "big negative impact" on the global economy and the multilateral trade system, Hayashi said. Meanwhile, Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yoji Muto said he told U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick during an online meeting earlier in the day that the new tariff move is regrettable and will make it difficult for companies to invest in the U.S. market and hurt the U.S. economy. Muto added that Tokyo will continue to request exemptions from U.S. tariffs. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New U.S. tariffs "particularly bad news" for Australia: business group People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:09, April 03, 2025 SYDNEY, April 3 (Xinhua) -- The new U.S. tariffs represent "particularly bad news" for Australia, one of the nation's largest business groups has warned. The Australian Industry (AI) Group, a peak body representing over 60,000 businesses employing more than 1 million people, on Thursday said that U.S. President Donald Trump's new tariffs of at least 10 percent on all imports would "spark retaliation" and have an outsized impact on the Australian economy. "It is particularly bad news for our nation, because we rely on trade for our economic prosperity more than any other economy on earth, with one in four jobs dependent on trade," Innes Willox, chief executive of the group, said in a statement. Willox, who served as chief of staff to Australia's foreign minister from 2004 to 2006 and as Australia's consul-general in Los Angeles from 2006 to 2008, said the new tariffs were disappointing but not unexpected "as we deal with an American administration hellbent on remaking the international economic order." He warned that Trump's announcement in Washington on Wednesday local time would "undoubtedly spark retaliation," driving up costs for businesses and consumers. Responding to the new tariffs earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters in Melbourne that they were "unwarranted" and had "no basis in logic," but ruled out reciprocal tariffs. Willox said the AI Group was particularly concerned about the impact of the tariffs on Australia's advanced manufacturing sector because of "very deep ties" with the U.S. and global supply chains that cannot be quickly rejigged. "Our advanced manufacturers will face profound disruption as global supply chains adjust around the new U.S. tariff wall," he said. The AI Group has called for the government to introduce a transparent and robust anti-dumping system and internationally competitive policy settings on issues like tax, deregulation and energy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Australian agriculture industry "profoundly disappointed" in U.S. tariffs People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:01, April 03, 2025 CANBERRA, April 3 (Xinhua) -- The peak body representing Australia's agriculture industry has expressed "profound disappointment" in new U.S. tariffs of 10 percent on all imports from Australia. The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) on Thursday said it is "unwavering" in its commitment to free and fair trade following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of new tariffs in Washington on Wednesday local time. David Jochinke, president of the Canberra-based NFF, described Trump's decision to impose tariffs of at least 10 percent on all imports, including from Australia, as a "disappointing step backward" for the global economy. The NFF said that Jochinke spoke with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday morning and outlined the industry's support for the PM's decision not to impose reciprocal tariffs. "The NFF has long championed free and fair trade, not just for agriculture but all industries, recognizing its role in global economic growth and stability. Australian agriculture is unwavering in its commitment to this," Jochinke said. Responding to the new tariffs earlier on Thursday, Albanese said they were "unwarranted" and "not the act of a friend." Albanese announced 50 million Australian dollars (31.3 million U.S. dollars) in government funding for affected industries to seek new export markets. He said the funding would be delivered through peak bodies, including the NFF. According to government data, Australian agricultural exports to the U.S. were worth 7.1 billion Australian dollars (4.4 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023-24 and 5.2 billion Australian dollars (3.2 billion U.S. dollars) in the first six months of 2024-25, making it the second-most valuable export market for the industry behind only China. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ecuador says U.S. tariffs to hurt key exports People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:07, April 03, 2025 QUITO, April 2 (Xinhua) -- Ecuador's main export industry group warned Wednesday that new U.S. tariffs will significantly affect the country's exports of agricultural goods, notably banana, shrimp and cocoa. The Trump administration's plan to impose a 10 percent tariff on imports from over 180 countries starting April 5 threatens Ecuador's key exports, which currently enter the United States tariff-free, said the Ecuadorian Federation of Exporters (Fedexpor). The group said the impact is compounded by Ecuador's lack of a trade agreement with the United States, which is a gap that leaves Ecuador at a competitive disadvantage compared to regional exporters with preferential access. "The absence of a trade deal with the U.S. puts Ecuadorian exports in a weaker position under this new tariff regime," it said in a statement. Fedexpor and the Ecuadorian-American Chamber of Commerce said they have opened diplomatic and technical discussions with U.S. trade officials to explore options to limit the damage. The United States is Ecuador's top trading partner and the leading destination for its non-oil exports. Fedexpor estimates that the lack of a trade agreement has already cost the country up to 300 million U.S. dollars in potential exports. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel's industry body warns of U.S. tariffs' impact on trade People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 11:25, April 03, 2025 JERUSALEM, April 3 (Xinhua) -- The Manufacturers Association of Israel (MAI) on Thursday voiced concern over U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to impose a 17 percent tariff on Israeli goods, calling it a "worrying step for Israeli exporters." Trump announced the levies Wednesday as part of his "reciprocal tariffs" policy, though Israel had lifted all tariffs on U.S. imports a day earlier. Expressing surprise in a statement, the industry body said that 99 percent of U.S. goods entering Israel were already tariff-free before the policy shift. It warned that the new policy could harm Israel's economic stability, deter foreign investment, and weaken Israeli companies' competitiveness in the U.S. market. "This worrying step could harm jobs in Israel and reduce activity in the American market," it added. The association called the decision a setback in trade and investment relations and voiced hope that the move would be short-lived. It pledged to work with Israel's finance and economy ministries to reverse the policy while exploring alternative strategies, including seeking new markets and engaging U.S. decision-makers. The two countries signed a free trade agreement in 1985, which is Washington's first such deal. The United States remains one of Israel's top trade partners, with bilateral goods trade reaching an estimated 37 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, according to the U.S. Trade Representative. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK industries voice concern over U.S. tariffs on imports People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 11:05, April 03, 2025 LONDON, April 3 (Xinhua) -- The British government and business groups on Wednesday voiced broad concern after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 10 percent tariff on all British imports, warning that the move could disrupt bilateral trade and put pressure on struggling sectors, including manufacturing and small businesses. After Trump's announcement, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the government would continue negotiations with the United States to seek a resolution. "We will always act in the best interests of UK businesses and consumers. Nobody wants a trade war," he said. Britain received the lowest tariff rate of 10 percent, lower than the 20 percent imposed on the EU and higher rates on several Asian countries. However, business groups warned that the tariffs, even at 10 percent, could weigh heavily on UK industries. "There are no winners in a trade war," said Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Executive of the Confederation of British Industry, adding that Trump's announcement is "deeply troubling for businesses and will have significant ramifications around the world." Echoing Newton-Smith, Stephen Phipson, CEO of the manufacturing group Make UK, called the move "devastating." Noting that the tariff could disrupt the long-standing balanced trade between the UK and the United States, Phipson said, "It is highly disappointing that the strength of this relationship, at a time of where both countries need to boost shared growth, employment opportunities and innovation options, does not extend to enhancing free trade rather the reverse, the consequences of which will immediately harm the U.S. consumer and economy too." The automotive sector faces additional pressure as vehicles have been subject to a 25 percent tariff. "These tariff costs cannot be absorbed by manufacturers," said Mike Hawes, chief executive officer of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, warning of higher costs for U.S. consumers and reduced demand for British exports. The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said small exporters would be hit hard, as 59 percent of them trade with the United States. "Tariffs will cause untold damage to small businesses trying to trade their way into profit," said Tina McKenzie, the FSB's policy chair. Scotland's whisky producers also expressed disappointment, as the United States is the largest single export market for Scotch whisky. A spokesperson for the Scotch Whisky Association said the industry supported ongoing efforts by the British government to negotiate a deal, warning that higher tariffs could hurt sales and reduce competitiveness. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Denmark's PM visits Greenland after Trump threat to seize it Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 7:52 PM Denmark's prime minister has shown unity with Greenland by visiting the semi-autonomous territory following US President Donald Trump's threat to take over the world's largest island. On Friday, US Vice President JD Vance staged a visit to the US military base in Greenland which provides a strategic location for air and submarine surveillance. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen arrived on the island for a two-day visit Thursday after saying the US government was mounting "great pressure on Greenland" to grab it. Shortly after she arrived in Greenland, Frederiksen quickly posted a photo on social media, showing both the incoming prime minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and the outgoing prime minister, Mute B. Egede, standing on her sides. The caption of her photo with the two Greenlandic leaders consisted of just three words, written in both Danish and Greenlandic, with the message: "Cooperation. Equality. Security." Speaking to reporters in Greenland's capital city Nuuk, the Danish leader rejected the Trump administration's claims to take over Greenland. "The US shall not take over Greenland. Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders," the NATO state PM told reporters. However, Frederiksen did acknowledge that Greenland is "in a very, very difficult situation." Before Frederiksen's visit, acting-PM Nielsen, who won last month's parliamentary election and is set to form a new coalition government, said Denmark is "Greenland's closest partner." On Friday, Vance told US troops stationed at Pituffik Space Base on Greenland's coast that Washington plans to annex the mineral-rich region, if necessary, by "military force." Vance criticized Denmark, claiming that the small Scandinavian country had failed to adequately protect the island's security. "Our message to Denmark is very simple ... You have underinvested in the people of Greenland, and you have underinvested in the security architecture of this incredible, beautiful landmass filled with incredible people. That has to change." The majority of Greenland's 57,000 inhabitants are in favor of independence from Denmark. However, since Trump expressed his willingness to annex the ice-covered island, they say are not interested in joining the United States. Last month, Egede, the outgoing prime minister of Greenland, rejected the idea of joining the US, saying, "Enough is enough." "The American president has once again evoked the idea of annexing us. I absolutely cannot accept that," he wrote. "This time we need to toughen our rejection of Trump. People cannot continue to disrespect us." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hundreds of thousands of Gazans flee as Israel 'wipes out' Rafah Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 7:22 PM Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have fled the southern Gaza city of Rafah in one of the biggest mass displacements of the aggression, as Israeli occupation forces advanced into the ruins of the city. The Ministry of Health in Gaza said on Thursday that 112 Palestinians were killed by Israeli airstrikes since dawn, with at least 70 of those deaths taking place in Gaza City, in the north of the strip. The figure makes Thursday the deadliest single day for Palestinians since Israel resumed its war on Gaza on March 18. At least 20 people were killed in an airstrike around dawn in Shejayia, a suburb of Gaza City in the north. Later on Thursday, an Israeli airstrike killed at least 27 Palestinians, including women and children, inside a school building that served as a shelter for displaced families in Gaza City, local health authorities said. Medics said three missiles slammed into the Dar al-Arqam school building in Tuffah neighborhood in Gaza City. Troops pushed into Rafah on Gaza's southern edge, which had served as a last refuge for people fleeing the Israeli aggression. Residents said the Israeli assault has left an "unprecedented human catastrophe and a trail of unprecedented destruction. Rafah "is gone, it is being wiped out," a father of seven among thousands who had fled from Rafah to neighboring Khan Yunis said. "They are knocking down what is left standing of houses and property," another displaced person was quoted as saying. The assault to capture Rafah is a major escalation in the Israeli aggression, which Israel restarted last month after effectively abandoning a ceasefire in place since January. Also, in Shejaia in the north, one of the districts where Israel has ordered the population to leave, hundreds of residents streamed out on Thursday. Gazans who had returned to homes in the ruins during the ceasefire have now been ordered to flee communities on the northern and southern edges of the strip. They fear Israel intends to depopulate those areas indefinitely, leaving many hundreds of thousands of people permanently homeless. Many Palestinians are also refusing to leave their homes despite the relentless Israeli bombing of the besieged territory. "Others stayed because they don't know where to go, or got fed up of being displaced several times. We are afraid they might be killed or at best detained," said Basem, a resident of Rafah. The latest developments come after Israeli authorities declared their intention to capture large swathes of the crowded, besieged Palestinian region. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said his regime is working closely with the US to implement Donald Trump's vicious plan of displacement for Gaza residents. More Palestinians have fallen victim to Israel's incessant air and artillery strikes in Gaza as the regime's aggression rages on unabated across the besieged territory. The Israeli occupation forces resumed their offensive against Gaza on March 18, breaking a two-month ceasefire. More than 1,160 civilians have been killed since then. The death toll from the regime's brutal aggression since October 2023 now tops 50,500, with nearly 115,000 injured. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New Israeli strikes target ambulances, health center in south Lebanon despite truce Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 4:38 PM A series of new Israeli airstrikes have struck Lebanese civil defense teams, ambulances and a civil defense headquarters in south Lebanon, marking yet another violation of the fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Arab nation. Israel's military said it carried out an airstrike targeting a member of Hezbollah in the area of Alma al-Shaab Thursday, its latest attack on the country in recent days. Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported that one person was wounded in an Israeli drone strike on a car in the village near the border. It had also reported two wounded in Bint Jbeil in south Lebanon by an Israeli drone strike that targeted a car. Israeli strikes at dawn Thursday targeted two ambulances, a fire truck, and the destroyed a temporary health center operated by the Islamic Health Association in the town of Naqoura near the border. "The Israeli enemy targeted the newly established Civil Defense Center of the Islamic Health Association (IHA) in the town of Naqoura at dawn today with three aggressive raids, which led to its complete destruction and damage to two ambulances and a fire truck. Divine mercy prevented any injuries among the paramedics," the IHA said in a statement. "This aggression is part of a series of daily violations and attacks by the enemy, completing a series of crimes that it began in its last war on Lebanon, through its deliberate targeting of ambulance crews," it added. The Lebanese Ministry of Public Health, in a statement, condemned Israel's continued targeting of the healthcare sector. The ministry's media office said the attack adds to the repeated assaults carried out by the Israeli military on non-military health centers since the start of the aggression. The ministry reiterated its call on the international community not to overlook the gravity of these violations, which constitute a blatant breach of international laws, humanitarian organization charters, and established norms. This is not the first time that the Tel Aviv regime has breached the truce that went into effect in November last year. Israel bombed Beirut's southern suburb on Tuesday, killing several people, including a Hezbollah official and his son.. The Tel Aviv regime has continued to carry out deadly strikes on Lebanese territory since the truce agreement took effect, violating the deal over 1,500 times. The new attacks came one day after Israel's minister of military affairs, Israel Katz, visited an Israeli outpost established on Lebanese territory near the town of Markaba. Katz vowed that Israel's occupation in south Lebanon would be indefinite. "We are here without a time limit. It doesn't depend on time. It depends on the situation." Israel's military remains positioned in five locations along the border inside southern Lebanon, where they established themselves following the ceasefire deal in November 2024. This is aside from the Lebanese land that Israel has already been illegally occupying for decades. Israel was meant to pull out all its forces from south Lebanon after the ceasefire deal. Satellite imagery reviewed by the New York Times recently showed Israeli forces have been building a network of military structures and fortifications in south Lebanon. After enduring substantial losses over almost 14 months of conflict and not achieving its aims in the offensive against Lebanon, Israel had no choice but to agree to a ceasefire with Hezbollah. The ceasefire was implemented on November 27. Since the initiation of the agreement, the occupying forces have been conducting attacks on Lebanon, violating the ceasefire, which encompasses airstrikes across the Arab nation. On January 27, Lebanon declared its decision to prolong the ceasefire with Israel until February 18. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US militarization in West Asia reaches unprecedented levels: Report Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 2:47 PM The US military has broken the record for militarization in West Asia by carrying out its largest offensive deployment to the region since the start of Israel's war on Gaza and Lebanon in October 2023, Haaretz reports. According to the Israeli newspaper, the US has beefed up its military presence in West Asia by sending additional squadrons of fighter jets, stealth bombers, and large quantities of weaponry in recent weeks. The deployment amounts to a roughly 50 percent increase over the previous monthly peak in US military flights to the region. It also includes transport and refueling aircraft, as well as numerous fighter jets from bases in the US and Europe. At least six B-2 stealth bombers - one-third of the military's fleet - have reportedly been deployed to the US airbase on Diego Garcia, a remote island in the Indian Ocean occupied by the US for military purposes. The B-2 is the only aircraft that can deliver the massive GBU-57. The nine KC-135 air refueling tankers stationed at Diego Garcia reportedly give these stealth bombers the range to conduct bombing raids in West Asia. The base has previously been used by the US military to bomb Afghanistan, Iraq, and Yemen. Over 20 US military cargo planes have been deployed to the Persian Gulf from Japan and Fort Sill, Oklahoma, carrying Patriot and THAAD missile defense batteries. Furthermore, US transport planes have landed in Djibouti and at a Saudi Red Sea airfield, equipping the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group, which has been operating in recent months, particularly targeting Yemen. At least 100 US F-35, F-15, and F-18 fighters are stationed in the UAE, Qatar, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, and aboard the USS Truman. The USS Carl Vinson strike group is also on its way to the region. According to aviation data from March, US military flights to Israel have increased, while more Israeli flights are retrieving munitions from US and European bases. The recent hostile strategy coincides with threats by US President Donald Trump against Iran. The Islamic Republic has issued a formal complaint to the UN Security Council, warning the world that it would respond to these threats accordingly. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hungary to quit ICC as fugitive Israeli PM visits European state Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 11:16 AM Hungary has announced its decision to pull out of the International Criminal Court (ICC), hours after the Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu - the subject of an arrest warrant - arrived in the European country for a visit. In a message on Facebook, Gergely Gulyas, Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban's chief of staff said the country would begin the withdrawal process on Thursday "in accordance with constitutional and international law frameworks." The announcement came after Netanyahu arrived in Budapest, where he was welcomed in defiance of calls to bar or arrest the Israeli war criminal. In November 2024, the ICC issued the arrest warrant against Netanyahu over war crimes related to Israel's ongoing genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The ruling obliged all the 125 countries, which signed the Rome Statute establishing the ICC, to detain and surrender Netanyahu to the Hague-based court. However, Orban invited Netanyahu to visit Hungary the day after the ICC issued the warrant. As a party to the Rome Statute, Hungary was required to act on the ICC warrant against Netanyahu, but it ignored its obligation. Hungarian lawmakers have said that although the country signed the ICC's founding document in 1999 and ratified it in 2001, it was never made part of Hungarian law. The visit to Hungary is Netanyahu's second trip outside the occupied territories since the warrant was issued. In February, he met with US President Donald Trump in Washington. Israel unleashed its genocidal war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, after the Hamas resistance group carried out its historic operation against the occupying entity in retaliation for the regime's intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people. The Tel Aviv regime has so far killed at least 50,523 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 114,776 others, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemeni army shoots down second advanced US MQ-9 drone in single week Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 9:44 AM The Yemeni army says it has shot down the second US MQ-9 drone, only three days after downing the first one during the past week, as part of a campaign in support of the oppressed people of Palestine and retaliation for aerial aggression by the US-led forces against the Arab country. In a statement on Thursday, the Yemeni Armed Forces said that their air defenses managed to shoot down an American MQ-9 Reaper, a hunter-killer drone designed for long-endurance and high-altitude surveillance, over the skies of Yemen's western province of al-Hudaydah. "In support of the oppressed Palestinian people and in backing their noble and valiant resistance, with the Help of Allah Almighty, the air defenses of the Yemeni Armed Forces have shot down a hostile American MQ-9 drone while it was violating Yemeni airspace and carrying out hostile missions over the airspace of al-Hudaydah Governorate using a locally manufactured surface-to-air missile," said Brigadier General Yahya Saree, spokesperson for Yemen's military, in a televised statement. He added that this is the second such drone that Yemeni air defenses had downed "within 72 hours and the 17th throughout the Battle of the Promised Victory and the Sacred Jihad in support of Gaza," that began shortly after October 7, 2023, when Israel launched its ongoing genocidal war against the besieged Gaza Strip. The armed forces said on Monday that they shot down an American MQ-9 Reaper drone over the central province of Ma'rib. The Yemeni Armed Forces reaffirmed on Thursday their commitment to resisting any attempts to threaten Yemen's sovereignty, emphasizing that, together with the Yemeni people, they will persist in their operations in solidarity with Gazans, continuing until the Israeli aggression against the Gaza Strip ends and the blockade is lifted. Last month, US President Donald Trump stressed that he had authorized "decisive and powerful military action" against Yemen's military and the resistance movement and later threatened to "completely annihilate them." Yemenis have been hitting Israeli and American targets in support of Palestinians in Gaza since the regime launched its devastating war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, and in response to the American-British aggression on their homeland. The operations have effectively shut down the Eilat port south of the occupied territories, causing significant economic setbacks for the Israelis. The Yemeni Armed Forces have said they will not stop their attacks until Israel's ground and aerial offensives in Gaza end. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Deadliest day in fortnight: Israel kills almost 80 Gazans in attacks on UN clinic, refugee sites Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 6:38 AM New round of Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip have killed at least 77 people, marking the deadliest day for Palestinians since the regime resumed its genocidal war on the besieged territory two weeks ago. A medical facility in the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza was among the targets of the Israeli aerial assaults on Wednesday. At least 22 people, including children and members of the Gaza police force, were killed in the attack on the clinic run by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). The government media office in Gaza condemned the "barbaric attack" that took place amid the Israeli genocide against civilians and displaced people in Gaza. Several other air raids on Wednesday hit the cities of Khan Yunis and Rafah, as well as the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. In an X post on Thursday, US Senator Bernie Sanders announced that he will be forcing a vote to block the government's $8.8 billion weapons sales to the occupying regime. The Tel Aviv regime "has killed 50,000 people in Gaza & wounded 112,000. Two weeks ago, they broke the ceasefire and have since killed 322 children & wounded 600. The US must end its complicity," he said. The deadly Israeli strikes came after Israeli minister of military affairs Israel Katz threatened to expand the Gaza onslaught, saying the regime's military would seize "large areas" of the Palestinian territory. Turkey slams Israel's blatant disregard for intl. law The Turkish Foreign Ministry said that the Gaza plan along with Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank are "yet another demonstration of Israel's blatant disregard for international law and its complete detachment from the pursuit of peace." It also called on the international community to take a firm stance in order to "end Israel's efforts to expand its territory through occupation." Israel launched its genocidal war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, but it failed to achieve its declared objectives despite killing 50,423 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injuring more than 114,638 others. The usurping entity accepted longstanding negotiation terms by the Hamas resistance group under a Gaza ceasefire, which began on January 19. On March 18, however, Israel resumed its relentless bombing of Gaza in blatant violation of the truce. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran condemns Israel's crimes in Gaza, West Bank, blasts West's hypocrisy over human rights Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 6:14 AM Iran has strongly condemned the continuation of attacks and crimes by Israel against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, especially during the Eid al-Fitr holidays, urging action against the regime's rights violations. In a statement on Thursday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the Israel regime's crimes include the targeted assassinations of journalists, deliberate attacks on medical personnel and healthcare centers, and incursions by extremist settlers into the al-Aqsa Mosque compound. He added that all countries are obliged to take action to put an end to Israel's policy of using starvation and famine as a means of genocide. The Iranian spokesperson criticized the inaction by some Western countries, including Britain, Canada, Germany and France, on Israel's "blatant and systematic" violation of human rights in the occupied Palestine. These Western countries' silence vis-a-vis the Israeli regime's crimes is a clear sign of their hypocrisy regarding human rights and the rule of law, he emphasized. Baghaei noted that all countries also shoulder a shared responsibility to prevent and counter Israel's heinous crimes, including genocide and war crimes, based on the international law. He said the Tel Aviv regime's impunity has further emboldened it to press ahead with the killing of the Palestinian people and occupation of Palestine. He called on all nations, especially Muslim countries, to stand in solidarity with the oppressed Palestinian people to stop further massacre of innocent women and children. The Israeli military launched a surprise aerial assault on the Gaza Strip on March 18, killing over 1,000 people, injuring more than 2,000 others, and shattering the ceasefire agreement with Hamas and the deal on the exchange of Israeli captives for Palestinian prisoners. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday expressed grave concern over the human toll resulting from the intensified hostilities in Gaza. In his daily press briefing, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that large-scale Israeli shelling and ground operations have resulted in widespread destruction and the displacement of more than 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah in the past two days alone, most of whom have been displaced multiple times. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address More civilians killed as US carries out dozens of airstrikes across Yemen Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 6:03 AM At least two people have been killed in Yemen in new round of airstrikes by US warplanes, part of Washington-led aerial campaign to pressure the Arab country into halting its support for Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip. In an airstrike on Wednesday evening, US fighter jets pounded Ras al-Isa area in the Salif district of Yemen's western province of al-Hudaydah, killing at least one person and wounding another one, Yemen's al-Masirah television network reported. U-S warplanes also conducted an airstrike on the Qahza district in Sana'a governorate, targeting a civilian car. The United States also carried out air raids on Sa'ada governorate. According to local sources, American warplanes targeted various areas southeast of Sa'ada city with nearly 20 airstrikes. Earlier in the day, Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement said that a US airstrike targeted drinking water tanks in al-Sanaif village in Hudaydah's al-Mansuriyah district, leaving at least 50,000 without access to water as the reservoirs provided drinking water to eight villages. Separately on Wednesday evening, another US airstrike on a telecom facility in al-Jablah district in Yemen's west-central Ibb province killed at least one person, the Yemeni health ministry reported. On Tuesday, the resistance movement reported that US airstrikes in al-Hudaydah killed four people and injured three, while three additional strikes hit Hajjah province in northwestern Yemen without causing casualties. For the third consecutive week, US airstrikes have continued across Yemen during the night. The Yemeni health ministry' figures show that since mid-March, US airstrikes in Yemen have claimed the lives of at least 61 civilians and wounded 139 others. Last month, US President Donald Trump stressed that he had authorized "decisive and powerful military action" against Yemen's military and the resistance movement and later threatened to "completely annihilate them." Yemenis have been hitting Israeli and American targets in support of Palestinians in Gaza since the regime launched its devastating war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, and in response to the American-British aggression on their homeland. The operations have effectively shut down the Eilat port south of the occupied territories, causing significant economic setbacks for the Israelis. The Yemeni Armed Forces have said they will not stop their attacks until Israel's ground and aerial offensives in Gaza end. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Tibetan Buddhist leader missing for 8 months has died, sources say Inside Tibet, people mourn the unexplained death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje, a renowned abbot and educator. By Tenzin Pema and Tenzin Tenkyong for RFA Tibetan 2025.04.03 -- Chinese officials have confirmed the death of an influential Tibetan Buddhist leader who went missing eight months ago shortly after he publicly called for the preservation of Tibetan language and culture, two sources told Radio Free Asia. Tibetans inside Tibet took to social media platforms on Thursday to mourn the loss of Tulku Hungkar Dorje, 56. He was the 10th abbot of Lung Ngon Monastery in Gande County of Golog in Qinghai province. He was renowned as a philanthropist, educator and religious teacher. "As learned leaders depart like this, one after another, we are left behind like a flock of sheep without a shepherd," wrote one Tibetan netizen. The sources, who live inside Tibet and spoke to RFA on condition of anonymity because of fears for their own safety, said that Chinese officials on Wednesday summoned seven monks from the Lung Ngon Monastery and informed them about Tulku Hungkar Dorje's death. The officials provided no information about when or where he had died, nor the cause of his death, the sources said. Tulku Hungkar Dorje, whose title "Tulku" refers in Tibetan Buddhism to someone who has been reincarnated, disappeared shortly after a public teaching he gave on July 21, 2024. Chinese officials subsequently imposed strict restrictions on the monks of the monastery and local Tibetans, forbidding any public discussions about the disappearance and prohibiting the sharing of his teachings in audio or video format, the sources said. Fears for Tulku Hungkar Dorje deepened in December 2024 when a source told RFA Tibetan that Chinese authorities were detaining well-known Buddhist lamas from across Tibet for questioning and there were fears that he had died in Chinese custody. When the monks on Wednesday were informed of his passing, they were made to sign an official government document confirming his death, but the Chinese officials failed to disclose what had happened to the abbot's remains, nor where he had been located during the months he had been missing, the sources said. Chinese authorities closely scrutinize prominent Tibetan Buddhist lamas and businessmen involved in philanthropy, as well as poets, writers, and religious teachers who advocate for the preservation and promotion of Tibetan language and culture. Such figures often face strict surveillance and are vulnerable to arbitrary detentions and long prison terms. In 2005, Tulku Hungkar Dorje founded the first Buddhist nunnery in Golog history and also established several schools and vocational centers of learning, including the Hungkar Dorje Ethnic Vocational High School and the Mayul Center of Studies, to provide free education to Tibetan children from local nomadic families, the two sources said. The sources said most of these schools were shut shortly after his disappearance, although one was believed to have been shut in 2021. The schools taught children Tibetan history and language, Chinese and English language, mathematics and moral education. They also offered vocational training in Thangka painting, Tibetan medicine, tailoring and carpet weaving. During a visit to the United States in 2012, Tulku Hungkar Dorje wrote: "Tibet has a rich history and culture that could benefit the entire world. It is the responsibility of each successive generation to preserve this ancient tradition of knowledge. We are united in motivation and action in enthusiastically preserving and spreading our culture." He also spearheaded many welfare programs for local Tibetans, including free distribution of food, clothes, and medicine to thousands of Tibetan people, including monks, nuns and the aged, through the Gesar Shenpen Foundation, which he founded in 2004. His father, Padma Tumdag Dorje, also known as Orgyen Kusum Lingpa, was a master of the ancient Tibetan Buddhist sect of Nyingma, and was also reputed as dedicating his life to working for the benefit of others. Tibetans on social media mourn loss On Thursday, Tibetans inside Tibet took to social media platforms to mourn his loss and pen emotional tributes, recalling his contributions to preserving Tibetan culture, supporting thousands of underprivileged people and establishing private schools in Tibet. "At a time when the red wind blows strongly and frequently, the news that the brightness of your being, like the snow mountains, has dimmed fills us with great sadness," wrote the Tibetan netizen cited earlier in this article. "As I heard about the passing of another person who wholeheartedly served the political and religious cause of Tibet, it pains (me) from the bottom of my heart," wrote another. Others raised suspicions around the circumstances of his death. "How is it possible for an individual as strong as gold to have died just of sickness?" wrote a third Tibetan netizen. Born in 1969 to a nomadic family in Gande county, Tulku Hungkar Dorje grew up with five siblings and survived the Cultural Revolution in Tibetan under Mao Zedong in the 1960s and 1970s. After completing his monastic education from Lung Ngon Monastery from 1980 to 1989, he pursued further education at Drepung Monastery in southern India where he received the prestigious title of Rabjampa, or scholar. He then studied in the United States for a few years before assuming responsibility as the 10th abbot of Lung Ngon Monastery in 2002. Tulku Hungkar Dorje wrote several books, including "Tangkas in Golog: The Tangka Album of Lung Ngon Monastery" and "The Melodious Sound of the Laughter of the Vidyadharas of the Three Lineages." RFA Tibetan journalists Tenzin Norzom and Tenzin Dhonyoe in Dharamsala, India contributed reporting. Edited by Mat Pennington. Copyright 1998-2025, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content April not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Asian nations fear pain from US tariffs, seek ways to placate Trump Developing Southeast Asian nations are among the hardest hit by the tariffs affecting almost every country. By Mike Firn for RFA 2025.04.03 BANGKOK -- U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping new tariffs are likely to cause particular pain in developing Asian countries that rely on export industries to raise living standards and provide jobs for young people. Southeast Asian nations were some of the hardest hit by the tariffs announced Wednesday, at nearly 50% in some cases. The tariffs will be paid by U.S. importers and could have a range of consequences - from higher prices for American consumers to falling incomes for the exporting nations. China, the world's second-largest economy after the U.S., faces an additional 34% tariff on top of the 20% the U.S. imposed earlier this year when Trump demanded the country buy more U.S. goods and stop the flow of the deadly synthetic opioid fentanyl. "China firmly opposes this and will resolutely take countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests," the country's commerce ministry said Thursday, accusing Trump of adopting bullying and damaging tactics. The tariff shock therapy is aimed at encouraging a revival of American manufacturing, which fell as a share of the economy and employment over several decades of global free trade and competition from production in lower-cost countries. Any changes could take years as many U.S. corporations have made substantial investments in overseas production. Manufacturing in the U.S., like elsewhere, also is reliant on components produced in other countries. U.S. tariffs announced by President Trump, April 2, 2025. (Oliver Zhou/RFA) 'A lot of Cambodians will lose their jobs' The 49% duties imposed on Cambodian exports will force the country's garment industry to slow to a near halt, according to Stephen Higgins, managing partner at Mekong Strategic Capital in Phnom Penh. The broader economy is likely to suffer since the garment and apparel industries contribute more than one third of Cambodia's gross domestic product. Higgins says production may shift to India, which only faces a 36% U.S. tariff and giving workers the skills to produce more high-end products may have little immediate impact. "In the short term, things like tech innovation and training just aren't going to shift the dial enough to help Cambodia, or any country, weather these punitive tariffs. Redirecting trade is going to take time, and in the interim, a lot of Cambodians who can least afford it are going to lose their jobs," Higgins said. "If there's one thing we've learned, it is that Washington is highly unpredictable these days. Hopefully once constituents in red (Republican) seats start seeing prices go up, or they start suffering from retaliatory tariffs from the E.U., they'll put a lot of pressure on their representatives to do something about these tariffs. But I just don't see that happening overnight." Along with Cambodia, very high tariffs were also imposed on two other least-developed countries in Southeast Asia: Laos at 48% and military-ruled Myanmar at 44%. Vietnam stock market suffers record loss Stock markets across the region took a battering Thursday, particularly Vietnam where the main index closed 6.7 percent lower - its biggest one-day decline since September 2001, according to Bloomberg. Vietnam had the fourth-largest trade surplus with the U.S. last year at a record US$123 billion and faced growing pressure from Washington to lower it. Hanoi lobbied unsuccessfully to try to avoid higher tariffs. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper last month and promised higher imports of American products. On Tuesday, Vietnam cut import duties on some American fuel, automobile and agricultural products, but that did not stop Trump targeting the country's exporters with a 46% tariff, the second-highest in Asia. Chinh met with Trade and Industry Minister Nguyen Hong Dien on Thursday to discuss the impact on Vietnam's economy and to look for ways of reducing the trade surplus, Tien Phong online reported. Trump has a track-record of abruptly raising and lowering tariffs imposed on Canada and Mexico and, according to Tien Phong, Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc is hoping to persuade him to roll back import duties when he visits the U.S. capital next week. In Thailand, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said her government was working to help affected exporters and would set up a committee to negotiate with the U.S. over the 36% tariffs slapped on its exports. She said Thailand was willing to lower the 72% duties the U.S. says Thailand charges, which include the effect of currency manipulation and market barriers. Reactions not all negative The government of Taiwan, which is under increasing military pressure from China, described the 32% U.S. tariff on its exports as "strongly unreasonable and highly regrettable" and said it would it would lodge "solemn representations" with the United States. The tariffs, however, do not cover semiconductors for which Taiwan is a leading global producer. Bucking the negative reactions in Asia to what Trump dubbed "Liberation Day" for the U.S. economy, the leader of the World Uyghur Congress, which advocates for the persecuted Muslim minority, welcomed the negative impact the tariffs would have on China. Rushan Abbas, the Washington-based group's executive chair, cited the elimination of the so-called de minimis rule, which had allowed goods worth less than $800 to enter the U.S. tariff-free. She said the rule had enable Chinese e-commerce giants like SHEIN and Temu to flood the U.S. market with goods made with Uyghur forced labor, which is prevented under U.S. law. "These measures are critical not only to upholding the human rights of Uyghurs, who continue to endure genocide and state-imposed forced labor, but also to safeguard U.S. interests and national security," she said. China is accused using the forced labor of Uyghurs, who have been subjected to mass internments in the Xinjiang region, to make products like garments, gloves and hair products that are sold internationally. RFA Mandarin and Uyghur services contributed reporting. Edited by Stephen Wright and Mat Pennington. Updated to add details about Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar and including reactions from Taiwan and the World Uyghur Congress. Copyright 1998-2025, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content April not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rubio Reiterates US Commitment To NATO At Foreign Ministers Meeting In Brussels By RFE/RL April 03, 2025 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Trump administration is committed to remaining in NATO and urged the military alliance's 32 members to pledge to increase spending to strengthen its defense capabilities. Speaking as he arrived in Brussels for a two-day meeting of NATO foreign ministers, Rubio said the United States was "as active as it has ever been" in the alliance as he sought to allay concerns that US President Donald Trump is undercutting transatlantic relations. "President Trump's made clear he supports NATO. We're going to remain in NATO," Rubio said before entering the meeting. "We do want to leave here with an understanding that we are on a pathway, a realistic pathway, to every single one of the members committed and fulfilling a promise to reach up to 5 percent of spending. That includes the US." Ahead of the meeting, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte also tried to tamp down fears over Trump's commitment to the alliance, saying in his mind the US's dedication to NATO "is absolutely clear." "I know there has been some tough language. I know that there have been allies, for example, on this side of the pond being worried about the long-term commitment of the US to NATO," Rutte said on April 2. "I'm absolutely convinced this alliance is there to stay with the US. Their commitment is absolutely clear," he added. NATO allies have been determined to present a united front to counter Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, but the European allies feel their efforts have been marginalized. In search of a quick cease-fire deal, Washington has suggested Ukraine might have to make territorial concessions and taken step to restart a dialogue with Russia. Rubio is expected to be confronted with questions from allies who are alarmed, angered, and confused by the Trump administration's moves to mend ties with Russia and its rhetorical attacks on longtime transatlantic partners. Based on what they have seen and heard since Trump took office in January, European officials have expressed deep concerns about the future US role in the alliance. Rubio likely also will be pressed to explain Trump's stated desire to make NATO ally Canada the 51st state and his push to annex Greenland, which is autonomous within the Kingdom of Denmark, another NATO ally. NATO leaders in June were expected to decide whether to raise the defense spending target for each individual member from its current minimum of 2 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). The Trump administration has previously floated the idea of a 5 percent of GDP spending minimum, while Rutte has been pushing for every ally to commit to spending at least 3.7 percent of GDP on defense as quickly as possible. Some European allies will be reluctant to commit too much on defense too soon given they are struggling with low growth and ballooning budget deficits. Trump's announcement of stiff tariffs on almost every country around the world -- which EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic on April 3 called "unjustified" -- have exacerbated fears that economic growth could slow even further. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha will also attend the NATO meeting and is expected to provide an update on the situation on the battlefield in the war against Russia. While Ukraine's membership in NATO is off the table for now, most European allies are keen to at least get assurances that US weapons will continue to go to Ukraine and that NATO's training mission for Ukrainian soldiers continues to operate. However, the United States is no longer chairing the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, known as the Ramstein group, which coordinates military support for Kyiv. The United Kingdom chaired the last meeting of the group in February, and the next one tentatively scheduled for April 11 could be co-chaired by the UK and France. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/nato-rutte-rubio-ukraine- russia-foreign-ministers/33370655.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address During Visit By Israel's Netanyahu, Hungary Announces It Will Withdraw From ICC By RFE/RL's Hungarian Service April 03, 2025 Hungary announced it is withdrawing from the International Criminal Court (ICC) as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in Budapest for his first trip to Europe since an ICC arrest warrant was issued for him over alleged war crimes in Gaza. Hungarian Defense Minister Kristof Szalay-Bobrovniczky met Netanyahu at the Budapest airport at around 2:30 a.m. before acknowledging the Israeli leader's arrival in a post on Facebook. Hours later, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's chief of staff, Gergely Gulyas, was quoted by the state news agency MTI as saying the government was moving to pull out of The Hague-based court, confirming what diplomatic sources inside Hungary told RFE/RL earlier this week. Orban followed that by saying during a news conference with Netanyahu that "recent ICC decisions show that it has become a political instrument" as witnessed "most clearly by the decisions on Israel." "We are exiting the ICC," he added. Even before the announcement, Netanyahu was virtually certain he would not be detained during his four-day visit. As a signatory to The Hague court, Hungary has an obligation to arrest him, but its domestic legal situation is complicated and has given the government enough wiggle room to welcome him. Since the court has no police force of its own, it has no way to enforce its rulings and relies on states to comply. The process of leaving the ICC is expected to take up to a year as parliament must approve such a move. "The Hungarian justice minister will hand over to the national parliament the paperwork on our termination of cooperation with the court," Orban said. Orban publicly extended an invitation to Netanyahu in November shortly after the ICC issued the warrant, and has called the ICC warrant "Brazen, cynical and completely unacceptable." "I will guarantee him, if he comes, that the judgment of the ICC will have no effect in Hungary," Orban said. What Are The Political Reasons? Orban has closely aligned himself with Netanyahu and with US President Donald Trump, who has also criticized the court's warrant. Neither the US nor Israel are parties to the ICC. Trump issued sanctions against the ICC last month, criticizing as "baseless" its arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The indictment says Netanyahu is "allegedly responsible for the war crimes of starvation as a method of warfare and of intentionally directing an attack against the civilian population; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024." What's The Legal Position? Other countries have defied the court's arrest warrants in the past, and even German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on April 3 he could "not imagine" an arrest warrant being executed against Netanyahu if he were to visit Germany. "It is not for states to unilaterally determine the soundness of the court's legal decisions," court spokesman Fadi El-Abdallah told RFE/RL, adding it was a "legal obligation to the court" to enforce them. This view was endorsed by two senior lawyers who spoke to RFE/RL. "If Mr. Netanyahu visits a state party like Hungary or Germany and is not arrested, this state violates its obligations under the Rome Statute of the ICC," said Kai Ambos, professor of criminal and international law at Germany's Goettingen University. "The nonexecution of ICC arrest warrants undermines the court's legitimacy," said Ambos, who serves as a war crimes judge at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers, an international court set up for crimes committed during the 1990s Kosovo conflict. Tamas Adany, an associate professor of international law in Hungary, agreed with this but also pointed to a nuance. "Globally speaking, there are countries where, whenever they ratify an international treaty, it becomes part of the law of the land," he said. "Most other countries, where the typical language of multilateral treaties is not an official language...rely on a process called promulgation" to make an international obligation part of national law, he said. Hungary ratified the Rome Statute in 2001 under the first Orban government. But it has never carried out the second step, which basically amounts to incorporating the statute into the country's own national legal code. "The question is hard because Hungary is under a legal obligation from the perspective of international law to comply with this. But Hungarian national law does not make it possible for the authorities [to do so]," Adany said. This reasoning has also been used by the Hungarian authorities. "Thanks to former President Janos Ader, we had the sense to never make it part of domestic law," government spokesman Gergely Gulyassaid on March 13. Yet Adany said the law was not entirely clear on this point, because Netanyahu is accused of crimes that have been considered part of customary international law since the 1940s. "I'm very positive that those parts of the Rome Statute, which are considered by a majority of states to be customary international law in nature, should be enforced in Hungary even without a formal promulgation," he said. Is Hungary Alone? Gulyas pointed to another reason for not arresting Netanyahu. When the court warrant was issued, Germany offered an ambiguous response. "I find it hard to imagine that we would make arrests on this basis," government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit said, adding that legal questions had to be clarified about the warrant. Then, in January, Christian Democrat leader Friedrich Merz said he would find "ways and means" to invite Netanyahu to Germany. Merz's party subsequently won federal elections, and he is now preparing to take office as the country's next chancellor. Gulyas, the Hungarian government spokesman, seized on this. "Since a country of Germany's size and power thinks that it must disregard its own domestic law because the decision of the International Criminal Court is so absurd, what is the point of the whole thing?" he said. What Would Be The Consequences? Merz's comments were hugely controversial in Germany. Ambos said there could be "sanctions" for not carrying out an arrest warrant, imposed by the ICC's Assembly of State Parties, which is responsible for various court matters, including the election of judges and prosecutors and setting its budget. "Such a situation just arose with regard to Vladimir Putin's visit and nonarrest in Mongolia," he added, referring to the Russian president's visit there in September. Putin is wanted for the war crime of abducting children from Russian-occupied Ukraine. "The consequence for Hungary is that we may possibly lose our voting rights in the Assembly of States Parties," Adany said, adding there could be a "judicial investigation into this conduct of Hungary." The political fallout might be quite limited. Hungary is already highly isolated within the European Union, where it has been accused of democratic backsliding and curtailing media freedom. Its pro-Russia positions have also led to diplomatic problems. "I'm absolutely positive that the arrest is not going to happen," Adany said. "Netanyahu is going to travel home safely." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/icc-warrant-netanyahu-hungary-visit- orban/33370710.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hundreds Mourn At Farewell For Four US Soldiers Who Died In Lithuania By RFE/RL April 03, 2025 Hundreds of Lithuanians gathered in Vilnius on April 3 to honor four American soldiers who died during a training exercise in Lithuania, as a procession carrying their coffins passed through the city's Cathedral Square. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausada, who attended the ceremony, expressed his condolences to the families of the soldiers and said the recovery operations, supported by international cooperation, were "the best proof of NATO's invincibility." "Their readiness to be with us, as they say, in a difficult neighborhood, is the best proof of who our friends are today," Nauseda told reporters. Defense Minister Davile Sakaliene and the archbishop of Vilnius were among those present at the ceremony. Sakaliene emphasized that the joint rescue efforts by soldiers from Lithuania, the United States, Germany, Poland, and Estonia demonstrated "unity" in times of crisis. "We consider US soldiers in Lithuania as our own. The farewell ceremony once again demonstrated our society's solidarity, respect, and gratitude to the Americans," the Lithuanian Defense Ministry said in a post on Facebook. The last US soldier missing in Lithuania was found dead on April 1, ending a massive weeklong search for the four service members whose armored vehicle was pulled from a swampy training area, the US military said. The bodies of the first three soldiers from the US Army's 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, and their M88A2 Hercules armored recovery vehicle had been retrieved on March 31. The soldiers were on a tactical training exercise when they went missing. US Major General Curtis Taylor, commanding general of the 1st Armored Division, earlier expressed thanks to everyone who contributed to the recovery operation. "We cannot thank our allies and fellow service members enough, especially Lithuanians, who spared no resource in support of this mission," he said. Lithuania, a NATO and EU member, hosts more than 1,000 US troops stationed in the Baltic nation on a rotational basis. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/lithuania-us-american- soldiers-farewell-ceremony-accident/33372417.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman Reaffirm Commitment to Market Stability on Healthier Oil Market Outlook and Adjust Production Upward Saudi Press Agency Riyadh, April 03, 2025, SPA -- The eight OPEC+ countries, which previously announced additional voluntary adjustments in April and November 2023, namely Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman met virtually on April 3, 2025, to review global market conditions and outlook. In view of the continuing healthy market fundamentals and the positive market outlook, and in accordance with the decision agreed upon on 5 December 2024, subsequently reaffirmed on March 3, 2025, to start a gradual and flexible return of the 2.2 million barrels per day voluntary adjustments starting from April 1, 2025, the eight participating countries will implement a production adjustment of 411 thousand barrels per day, equivalent to three monthly increments, in May 2025. This comprises the increment originally planned for May in addition to two monthly increments. The gradual increases may be paused or reversed subject to evolving market conditions. This flexibility will allow the group to continue to support oil market stability. The eight OPEC+ countries also noted that this measure will provide an opportunity for the participating countries to accelerate their compensation. The eight countries reaffirmed their commitment to the voluntary production adjustments agreed at the 53rd JMMC meeting on April 3, 2024. They also confirmed their intention to fully compensate any overproduced volume since January 2024 and to submit updated front-loaded compensation plans to the OPEC Secretariat by April 15, 2025, which will be posted on the Secretariat's website. The eight OPEC+ countries will hold monthly meetings to review market conditions, conformity, and compensation. The eight countries will meet on May 5, 2025, to decide on June production levels. -- SPA 14:51 Local Time 11:51 GMT 0019 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hungary to Withdraw from International Criminal Court Government's Head Sputnik News 20250403 The decision comes amid the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for whom the ICC issued an arrest warrant in November. "The government has decided to withdraw from the International Criminal Court. The procedure for ending Hungary's participation in accordance with the Constitution and international legal frameworks will be initiated by the government on Thursday," the head of the Hungarian prime minister's administration, Gergely Gulyas, was quoted as saying by the MTI news agency. The basis for the legal proceedings is an accusation against the Israeli prime minister of war crimes in the Gaza Strip. The court also seeks to detain former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. In November, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban stated that he intended to invite Netanyahu to Hungary and guarantee that the ICC's decision would not be implemented on Hungarian territory. Gulyas further clarified that Hungary had not ratified the ICC statute, meaning that the Israeli prime minister could visit the country without fearing arrest. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Joint Statement on the Trilateral - United States, Japan, Republic of Korea - Meeting in Brussels US Department of State Media Note Office of the Spokesperson April 3, 2025 The following text was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. Begin Text: United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, and Republic of Korea Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul met on April 3 in Brussels to strengthen trilateral cooperation in advancing the safety, security, and prosperity of our three countries and the broader Indo-Pacific region, while upholding shared principles including the rule of law. The Secretary and Foreign Ministers emphasized the importance of NATO's cooperation with Indo-Pacific Partners to ensure the ability to swiftly respond to security developments and challenges in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions. They also expressed their deep condolences for the loss of lives and damage caused by the wildfires in the ROK and Japan. Strengthening Regional and Global Engagement The United States reiterated its ironclad commitments to the defense of Japan and the ROK, backed by America's unmatched military strength, including its nuclear capabilities. All sides confirmed that U.S. extended deterrence commitments to Japan and the ROK remain critical to the security and stability of the Korean Peninsula and the Indo-Pacific region. Japan and the ROK expressed their support for U.S. efforts to engage the PRC and Russia on reducing nuclear risks. They reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering defense and deterrence by advancing robust security cooperation and strengthening their respective defense capabilities. The Secretary and Foreign Ministers strongly opposed unlawful maritime claims or any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion in the waters of the Indo-Pacific, including the South China Sea. They emphasized their commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific and ensuring international law as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, including freedoms of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the sea, prevails. They also emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element of security and prosperity for the international community. They expressed concern about provocative actions, particularly the recent military drills around Taiwan, and called for an end to further destabilizing actions. They encouraged the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues and opposed any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo, including by force or coercion. They also expressed support for Taiwan's meaningful participation in appropriate international organizations. The Secretary and Foreign Ministers welcomed continued talks between the United States, Russia, and Ukraine and encouraged progress towards a comprehensive ceasefire, which is an essential step to a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in line with the Charter of the United Nations. Addressing the North Korean Threat The Secretary and Foreign Ministers reaffirmed their resolute commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in accordance with the United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs). They expressed their serious concerns over DPRK's increasing military cooperation with Russia. They also emphasized the need to address together the DPRK's nuclear and missile programs and to maintain and strengthen the sanctions regime against the DPRK by responding firmly to violations and evasions of the relevant UNSCRs. The Secretary and Foreign Ministers expressed their serious concern with malicious cyber activities by DPRK cyber actors, including the theft of nearly $1.5 billion worth of cryptocurrency from a single exchange service in February. They called on the international community to take actions to prevent the DPRK from converting the stolen cryptocurrency into hard cash. The Secretary and Foreign Ministers pledged to continue efforts to address gross violations of human rights in and by the DPRK and reiterated their commitment to the immediate resolution of the issues of abductees, detainees, and unrepatriated prisoners of war as well as the issue of separated families. Enhancing Economic Security and Resilience The Secretary and Foreign Ministers committed to continue strengthening energy security and energy cooperation, underpinned by America's LNG and other energy sources and technologies, in a mutually beneficial manner. Building on discussions in Munich, they also committed to continue diversifying critical mineral and other vital supply chains, including through active collaboration under the MSP (Minerals Security Partnership), and developing and protecting critical and emerging technologies. They underscored the need to leverage their industries' capacities to accelerate joint efforts to develop and deploy advanced civil nuclear reactors to meet growing energy needs under the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation. They recognized the need for concerted efforts to ensure maritime security and prosperity through a modern maritime fleet, a robust shipbuilding industry, and a strong workforce. They welcomed the trilateral coast guard cooperation to address the multifaceted challenges in the maritime domain and provide joint capacity-building assistance to partners in the region under Trilateral Maritime Security and Law Enforcement Cooperation Framework. Standing firmly against economic coercion and unfair trade practices, they reaffirmed their commitment to a free and fair global economic order. They also committed to support the ROK's efforts to successfully host APEC 2025 and achieve meaningful outcomes. Advancing Trilateral Cooperation The Secretary and Foreign Ministers committed to continue trilateral meetings at all levels, including at the Vice-Ministerial level. They look forward to the second Trilateral Global Leadership Youth Summit in Japan this summer. End Text. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Rubio's Meeting with Danish Foreign Minister Rasmussen US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson April 3, 2025 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Tammy Bruce: Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lkke Rasmussen today in Brussels. Secretary Rubio reaffirmed the strong relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark. They discussed shared priorities including increasing NATO defense spending and burden sharing, and addressing the threats to the Alliance, including those posed by Russia and China. They also reviewed ongoing coordination to enhance stability and security in Europe and to secure an enduring peace in Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary of State Marco Rubio and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte Before Their Meeting US Department of State Remarks Marco Rubio, Secretary of State NATO Headquarters Brussels, Belgium April 3, 2025 SECRETARY GENERAL RUTTE: Good morning, Mr. Secretary. Dear Marco, a warm welcome to NATO, your first foreign ministers meeting. But before I continue, let me express my condolences about the four U.S. soldiers who died during exercises in Lithuania. Our thoughts are with their family, their friends, their colleague soldiers, and we have the deepest respect for their service. I also want to highlight the work being done by the U.S., Lithuania, but also Poland and Estonia, to work around the clock basically to do everything to make sure that they would be recovered. But again, we are very sad about their death. Marco, I want to commend you for your tireless diplomacy over the last couple of months. You have traveled the whole world. And I also want to thank you for what you did before as a senator supporting NATO, and we will have a lot to discuss over the coming two days - of course, Ukraine. As I said before, President Trump, the team you (inaudible) you started a process of negotiations with our full support to bring the Ukraine war to a lasting, to a durable peace. And in the meantime, the Europeans are stepping up providing a lot of military support into Ukraine, and we have seen the latest numbers coming in that overall NATO Allies have provided in the first few months, over $20 billion in support to Ukraine to make sure they can stay in the fight as long as it continues. We will also discuss the other threats over the next two days - of course Russia, which is our long-term threat, but also the increasing problems we have with China, of course, North Korea, Iran. And all of these four are getting more and more connected, and these two theaters getting more and more connected and working intertwined. We know that United States is a staunch Ally in NATO. I had a very good meeting with the President, with President Trump. But that commitment comes with an expectation, and the expectation is that the European Allies and Canada need to spend more. Since (inaudible) the aggregate extra spending from Canada and Europe has been several hundred billion up to now. But when you look at the hundreds of billions of euros/dollars now rolling in in the last couple of months, this is probably the biggest surge in defense spending we have seen in Canada and Europe since the Cold War, since the Berlin Wall came down. So that is good news but still we need to do more. And then, of course, we will meet with the partners from Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand also to discuss another important issue, which is defense industrial production and how we can do more with them and to work together. So a lot of ground to cover. But again, a warm welcome. Please. SECRETARY RUBIO: Thank you. And thank you, and I'm glad you had a good meeting. I know I was out of the country while you were there, but I know you had a good meeting with the President. Thank you for your condolences of the four Americans who tragically lost their lives in an important training exercise. We honor them. And it also reminds us that the United States is in NATO. We are active. As we speak right now, the United States is as active in NATO as it has ever been. And some of this hysteria and hyperbole that I see in the global media and some domestic media in the United States about NATO is unwarranted. President Trump has made clear he supports NATO; we're going to remain in NATO. He's made clear - our first ambassador that got out of the United States Senate, is our ambassador to NATO who joins us here today on his first day on - his first hour on the job. So all of that is a testament to it. But we want NATO to be stronger. We want NATO to be more viable. And the only way NATO can get stronger and more viable is if our partners, the nation-states that comprise this important Alliance, have more capability. This is a collection not just of partners and Allies but of advanced economies, of rich countries who have the capability to do more. We understand that's a tradeoff. We have to do it every single year in our country. I assure you that we also have domestic needs. But we've prioritized defense because of the role we've played in the world, and we want our partners to do the same. And I understand there's domestic politics after decades of building up vast social safety nets that maybe you don't want to take away that and invest more in national security. But the events of the last few years - a full-scale ground war in the heart of Europe - is a reminder that hard power is still necessary as a deterrent. And so we do want to leave here with an understanding that we are on a pathway, a realistic pathway, to every single one of the members committing and fulfilling a promise to reach up to 5 percent in spending. That includes the United States will have to increase its percentage. Because if the threats truly are as dire as I believe they are and the members of this Alliance believe they are, then that threat has to be confronted by a full and real commitment to have the capability to confront these things, to confront them. And that's been the message President Trump had in first administration and it's the one he brings into this one. He's not against NATO. He is against a NATO that does not have the capability that it needs to fulfil the obligations that the treaty imposes upon each and every member-state. And it wants - no one expects that you're going to be able to do this in one year or two, but the pathway has to be real. This is a hard truth but it is a basic one that needs to be said now in order for us prove - in order for us to build the kind of NATO that has the capability to defend the territories of our nation-states and deter any action that would be aggressive against any one of us. So I hope to have a chance to engage on that here today in our conversations. I'm sure we will. Of course, we're also happy to be joined by our Indo-Pacific partners who have become great partners to the Alliance, as we also see increased threats to both freedom of navigation and territorial integrity in the Indo-Pacific. So we look forward to engaging them as well in this context. And thank you for the chance to be here on my first visit. I hope it will be very productive. Thank you very much. SECRETARY GENERAL RUTTE: It will. Absolutely. Thank you so much. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The News in Brief Friday, April 4, 2025 The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, Caspar Veldkamp, has voiced serious concerns about recent political developments in Georgia. Speaking to journalists in Brussels ahead of the NATO Foreign Ministers' meeting, Veldkamp described the situation as "very alarming.""The regression taking place in Georgia is very alarming," he stated. "You have seen the statement issued by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, and the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos. We, the Netherlands, as one of the key members of the European Union, fully support this statement."Veldkamp emphasized that the majority of Georgians aspire to a European future, and the Netherlands remains committed to supporting them."We are very concerned about the developments in Georgia because we see that the majority of the Georgian people are pro-European, they aspire to a European future, and we want to support them so that they can continue to defend their position," he added.Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has urged the European Union to begin the process of revoking Georgia's visa liberalization, stating that the issue is already under discussion."We call on the EU to start the process of revoking visa liberalization - this issue is on the table," Tsahkna said in Brussels ahead of the NATO Foreign Ministers' meeting.He also highlighted Estonia's actions against Georgian officials:"Estonia has imposed personal and national sanctions on dozens of individuals, including Bidzina Ivanishvili and the Prime Minister. We also call on the EU to start the process of revoking visa liberalization."When asked to confirm whether the issue is actively being considered, Tsahkna reiterated:"Yes, this issue is on the table, and starting the process requires 15 member states to show the regime that it must change its behavior." NATO must be 'stronger, fairer, and more lethal' Foreign Secretary to say UK to highlight ironclad support for Alliance and push Allies to increase defence spending. 3 April 2025 UK says NATO must stay strong and united to boost our collective defence in face of generational threat from Russia Foreign Ministers' summit follows biggest sustained increase in UK defence spending since the Cold War, delivering security for hardworking British people Allies set out their ironclad support for Ukraine in NATO-Ukraine Council The UK will encourage NATO Allies to step up defence spending to support Euro-Atlantic security as the Foreign Secretary arrives in Brussels for the NATO Foreign Ministers Meeting today (Thursday 3 April). He will say that making NATO stronger, fairer, and more lethal is key to protecting the conditions for growth at home. As the Alliance steps up to face long-term and interconnected threats from Russia and its enablers , the UK will tell Allies that it's our collective duty to boost defence spending and deter our adversaries. Increases in defence spending mean more and better capabilities, keeping us safe. While Russia and other actors work to destabilise Euro-Atlantic societies, the UK is playing its part, with the largest sustained increase to defence spending since the Cold War, hitting 2.5% from April 2027 and rising to 3% in the next parliament. Increasing defence spending by 11.8bn between now and 2027/28 will protect the conditions for growth and security at home, putting money back into the pockets of hard-working British people. Between 2023-24 the defence sector supported more than 430,000 jobs across the UK. In the NATO-Ukraine Council, the Foreign Secretary will discuss the practical planning undertaken by the UK, France, and other Allies to prepare and deploy as a Coalition of the Willing in the event of a peace deal. While Putin continues to delay and obstruct on a move to a ceasefire, the UK and Allies have doubled down to support Ukraine in the face of Russia's barbaric invasion. Ukraine has shown its strong commitment to peace, yet Russia's on-going bombardment of Ukrainian cities and infrastructure has not ceased. The Foreign Secretary will tell Allies that now is the time to maximise pressure on Putin, through every economic lever possible, to force him to the negotiating table. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: Keeping our country safe is the Government's first duty, and NATO is the cornerstone of our security, both at home and abroad. That's why we have announced the biggest investment to defence spending since the Cold War. Allies must spend more, produce more and deliver more on defence so NATO can become stronger, fairer and more lethal - boosting our collective defence ensures that NATO is ready for the threats and challenges we face. At the meeting David Lammy will discuss shared security threats and challenges with counterparts from NATO, as well as the EU and NATO's Indo-Pacific partners - Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea. This includes the challenges China poses to both Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic security, especially its enablement of Russia's illegal war. The NATO Foreign Ministers Meeting follows a week of meetings on regional security with Allies and partners across Europe. On Sunday the Foreign Secretary visited STRIKFORNATO, the naval command centre for the Allied Command Operations outside of Lisbon, before heading to the Weimar Plus Foreign Ministers Meeting in Madrid on Monday, where he urged partners to take a united approach to the global challenges posed by Russia's war machine. He also visited British and other NATO troops stationed in Kosovo to maintain stability in the Western Balkans. On Tuesday, the UK added Russia to the UK's Foreign Influence Registration Scheme to expose interference attempts on British soil. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Aid workers should not have to risk their lives to help those in need in Gaza: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the escalating situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. 3 April 2025 Location: United Nations, New York Delivered on: 3 April 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered) I'd like to thank High Commissioner Volker Turk and Dr. Younes Al-Khatib for your sobering briefings. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families of the Red Crescent medics and other humanitarians who were killed while bravely working to save lives in Gaza. Their deaths are an outrage and we expect this incident to be investigated fully, transparently and for those responsible held to account. Gaza remains the most dangerous place for humanitarians in the world. If Israel does not respect deconfliction notifications from aid workers, to allow them to operate without coming under attack, there will be more appalling deaths like these ones. Aid workers should not have to risk their lives to help those in need. So we urge Israel to cooperate with the UN fact-finding mission into the hit on a UN compound on 19 March, conduct thorough investigations into all incidents involving aid workers and medical personnel, and ensure accountability for those responsible. President, I have three points to make. First, the UK reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, including Avinatan Or, Yossi Sharabi and Shay Levinson, who have links to the UK. And we are clear Hamas must be held accountable for their despicable actions. But the UK strongly opposes Israel's decision to resume and expand its military operations in Gaza. Since operations restarted over 1000 Palestinians have lost their lives, including at least 322 children. And civilians are being compressed into ever-smaller areas. Further fighting and bloodshed is in nobody's interest and takes us further away from a deal to get the hostages home. Second, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is horrific and there is reportedly less than a week of food left for distribution in Gaza. We urge Israel to reinstate the flow of humanitarian aid immediately. Blocking supplies and electricity from entering Gaza risks violating international humanitarian law. The UK is deeply concerned that the UN and humanitarian organisations have been forced to reduce operations in Gaza because it is so unsafe. Without their life-saving work, even more Palestinians will suffer. Third, the UK condemns remarks by Defence Minister Katz on the annexation of land in Gaza. There must be no forced displacement of Palestinians or reduction in the territory of Gaza. This would only further drive instability and undermine security for Israelis and Palestinians alike. And we condemn recent Israeli decisions to accelerate the establishment of settlements and outposts in the West Bank. President, in conclusion, the lesson we have learnt time and again in this Council, is that diplomacy, not violence, is the only way to bring lasting peace. We urge the parties to return to a ceasefire, to end appalling loss of life, bring the hostages home and make credible efforts towards a two-state solution. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Regionally led security co-operation is vital for peace in West Africa: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Jess Jambert-Gray, UK Deputy Political Coordinator, on peace consolidation in West Africa. 3 April 2025 Location: United Nations, New York Delivered on: 3 April 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered) I will make three points today. First, the United Kingdom urges support for democracy, constitutional order and the protection of civic space in the region. We welcome the steps taken towards a return to constitutional order in Guinea and Mali and note recent developments in Niger. We urge the authorities to maintain progress in their transitions, and call on them to lift restrictions on political parties, civil society and media institutions and on peaceful public demonstrations We note the upcoming Presidential elections in Cote D'Ivoire and Guinea Bissau this year and call on the governments to ensure these are inclusive and align with their constitutions. Second, the United Kingdom is concerned by the security situation in the Sahel, including terrorist groups controlling territory and wreaking havoc on local populations. We reiterate our condemnation of terrorist attacks across the region, including in Niger on 21 March, and express our condolences to the families of the victims. We encourage UNOWAS to continue its critical role in supporting inclusive dialogue processes, which respond to and address, root causes of violence, to prevent further breaches of international humanitarian law. Regionally led security co-operation remains vital, and the UK welcomes efforts such as the ECOWAS standby force which will enable Member States to deploy rapidly to counter shared threats. We also encourage careful consideration of security partners in the region to avoid worsening the threat posed. Third, the United Kingdom is concerned at the worsening humanitarian situation in the region. Since 2019, the UK has provided life-saving assistance to over 16 million people in the Sahel. We encourage all parties to ensure rapid and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance and protect the safety of humanitarian convoys. To conclude, given the significant challenges the region is facing, including challenges which transcend national borders. It is imperative, therefore, that there is cooperation, coordination and communication between the states and peoples of the region with the international community. The United Kingdom welcomes the efforts made to bridge the differences between the Alliance of Sahel States and ECOWAS. The United Kingdom also expresses its thanks to UNOWAS for its work in aiding African states to promote freedom, security, and prosperity. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN rights chief warns of increasing risk of atrocity crimes in Gaza 3 April 2025 - The recent killings of 15 medical personnel and humanitarian aid workers in Gaza raise further concerns over the commission of war crimes by the Israeli military, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights told the Security Council on Thursday. Ambassadors met for an emergency session to discuss the escalation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Rights chief Volker Turk said he was pained to brief the Council once again on the "catastrophic suffering of people in Gaza," noting that "the temporary relief of the ceasefire, which gave Palestinians a moment to breathe, has been shattered." He reported that since 1 March, Israeli military operations have killed more than 1,200 Palestinians, including at least 320 children, according to the Gaza health authorities. Call for investigation Mr. Turk said he was appalled by the killing of the medical and humanitarian personnel. "There must be an independent, prompt and thorough investigation into the killings, and those responsible for any violation of international law must be held to account," he said. He highlighted that there is nowhere safe to go in Gaza amid ongoing bombardment. Furthermore, half of the territory is now under mandatory evacuation orders or has been declared a no-go zone. At the same time, Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups continue to launch indiscriminate rockets from Gaza into Israel, in breach of international humanitarian law. "I am also deeply concerned about the fate and well-being of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza," he said. Humanitarian aid blockade Meanwhile, a month has passed since Israel imposed a complete blockade on vital humanitarian aid and supplies entering Gaza, including food, water, electricity, fuel and medicines. "The blockade and siege imposed on Gaza amount to collective punishment and may also amount to the use of starvation as a method of war," he said. The UN rights chief was alarmed by the inflammatory rhetoric by senior Israeli officials around seizing, annexing and dividing territory, and about transferring Palestinians outside Gaza. "This raises grave concerns about the commission of international crimes and runs counter to the fundamental principle of international law against the acquisition of territory by force," he said. West Bank violence Mr. Turk also addressed the "extremely alarming" situation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, where Israeli operations have killed hundreds, destroyed entire refugee camps and displaced over 40,000 Palestinians. "Illegal settlement expansion continues unabated as some Israeli ministers advocate for Israeli sovereignty in the occupied territory," he added. The High Commissioner urged the immediate restoration of the ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Gaza. He stressed that "nothing can justify the horrific attacks committed against Israeli communities on 7 October 2023. And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people." High risk of atrocity crimes More than 50,400 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed, and more than 114,000 others injured, since the beginning of the war, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Mr. Turk warned that there is a high and increasing risk that atrocity crimes are being committed in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. He recalled that under the Geneva Conventions, States are obligated to act when a serious violation of international humanitarian law is committed. Furthermore, States party to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide have a responsibility to act when the risk becomes apparent. "I urge all those with influence to ensure the protection of civilians as a matter of absolute priority," he said. No military solution The High Commissioner stressed the need to ensure full accountability for all violations, and to release all hostages immediately and unconditionally, as well as all those arbitrarily detained. "Israel must refrain from any acts amounting to forcible transfer of Gaza's population," he stated. Mr. Turk said the last 18 months of violence have made abundantly clear that there is no military path out of the crisis. The only way forward is a political settlement, based on two states living side by side in equal dignity and rights, in line with UN resolutions and international law, he concluded. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DR Congo: Armed violence displaces thousands as cholera outbreak worsens 3 April 2025 - Ongoing violence in North and South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to kill, injure and displace civilians, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned. Intense clashes between local armed groups and M23 rebels were reported on Thursday in the town of Masisi Centre in North Kivu. Preliminary reports from partners on the ground indicate at least two civilian fatalities and multiple injuries, with several wounded evacuated to Masisi General Hospital. Meanwhile, many civilians remain confined to their homes due to active crossfire, intensifying fear and limited access to basic needs and services. "The volatility of frontlines and ongoing combat have rendered comprehensive assessments impossible," OCHA said. Despite international support, armed groups have made significant recent gains, particularly the M23 movement, which claims to defend the interests of Congolese Tutsi - many of whom were exiled to Rwanda - and is reportedly backed by Rwandan forces. The extremist Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) also remain active in the region. Delivering lifesaving aid In eastern Masisi, where the security situation allows, UN partners are delivering critical aid to displaced and returning populations. OCHA noted that since yesterday, partners have been distributing household and hygiene kits to more than 500 displaced households in Sake's collective centre. Furthermore, 19 of 24 water points in Sake have been rehabilitated, restoring access to safe water for over 4,000 households. Fresh clashes in South Kivu In South Kivu, fighting flared again on Tuesday in Fizi Territory, as local armed groups clashed with M23 fighters. The violence struck the villages of Mulima and Lusuku - both already sheltering thousands of displaced families - prompting another wave of forced displacement. Cholera outbreak Meanwhile, in the southern province of Tanganyika, a rapidly escalating cholera outbreak is placing thousands at risk. As of Wednesday, nine out of 11 health zones in the province are affected, with more than 1,450 confirmed cases and 27 deaths reported since January - a six-fold increase compared to the same period last year. UN health partners point to severely limited access to safe water - with less than 20 per cent coverage in affected areas - and insufficient healthcare capacity to manage cases effectively. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sudan crisis: UN rights chief condemns extrajudicial killings in Khartoum 3 April 2025 - The fight for Sudan's capital, Khartoum, likely involved widespread summary executions of civilians following its recent recapture by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), UN human rights chief Volker Turk said on Thursday. Citing credible reports of extrajudicial killings in several areas of the capital, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said that the victims were suspected of collaborating with rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) fighters. "I urge the commanders of the Sudanese Armed Forces to take immediate measures to put an end to arbitrary deprivation of life," insisted Mr. Turk, pointing to reports attributing the killings to SAF soldiers, State security personnel and affiliated militias. Video horrors The High Commissioner's comments follow the review of "multiple horrific videos" available on social media since 26 March, apparently filmed in southern and eastern Khartoum and showing armed men "some in uniform and others in civilian clothes" executing civilians. In some of the video footage, perpetrators state that they are punishing supporters of RSF, the UN rights chief said, adding that he was "utterly appalled" by the development. One report from the Janoub Al Hezam area of southern Khartoum apparently showed the alleged killing of at least 20 civilians, including one woman, by SAF and affiliated supporters. Accountability call "Extrajudicial killings are serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law," Mr. Turk said. "Individual perpetrators, as well as those with command responsibility, must be held accountable for such unacceptable actions under international criminal law." Sudan's spiralling crisis stems from the breakdown of a transition to civilian rule after the overthrow of long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir in 2019. The country was the first that Mr. Turk visited as High Commissioner in November 2022 and he has invested heavily in trying to protect Sudanese people from heavy fighting and the catastrophic humanitarian crisis that has gripped the country. In May 2024 he spoke to rival generals Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan of the SAF and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, head of the RSF, in an effort to pursue a peaceful resolution to the crisis. Human Rights Council spotlight At the current Human Rights Council session in Geneva, however, the High Commissioner warned more than 600,000 people are on the brink of starvation in Sudan after nearly two years of fighting. "Famine is reported to have taken hold in five areas, including Zamzam displacement camp in North Darfur," Mr. Turk said, referring to the shelter where the UN World Food Programme (WFP) was forced to suspend its lifesaving operations amid intense fighting. An additional five more areas could face famine in coming months and a further 17 are at risk, the High Commissioner told the Council on 27 February. "My own staff have heard harrowing testimonies of death from starvation in Khartoum and Omdurman." El Fasher alert In an alert late Wednesday, the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, warned that 250,000 people - mostly women, children and older people - had fled violence in the Al Malha area, around 180 kilometres north of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state. "Many are now scattered across 15 villages, lacking even basic necessities, the UN agency said, highlighting that just last week, the UN migration agency, IOM, said that 75,000 people had been displaced because of clashes. "The newly reported figure would mark a very significant escalation in displacement and signal a serious deterioration in an already dire humanitarian situation across North Darfur," OCHA said. In eastern Sudan, meanwhile, humanitarian partners continue to respond to a hepatitis outbreak spreading among displaced communities at the Gharb Al Matar displacement site in Kassala state. Between 27 and 31 March, more than 60 new suspected cases were reported, bringing the total to 236 cases in less than a month. The outbreak is being driven by overcrowded living conditions, poor sanitation and limited healthcare. Millions displaced To date, an estimated 8.8 million people have been forced from their homes to camps and other locations within Sudan; 3.5 million more have fled across borders. More than 30.4 million people need assistance, from healthcare to food and other forms of humanitarian support. Less than 30 per cent of hospitals and clinics are still working, and outbreaks of disease are rampant in displacement camps. Online threat In a statement, Mr. Turk expressed concern at the rise in online hate speech and incitement to violence in Sudan, "with lists of individuals accused of collaborating with the RSF posted online". The High Commissioner also warned that ethnic groups from the Darfur and Kordofan regions were being targeted disproportionately, before calling for the Sudanese authorities to launch independent, transparent and effective investigations into the latest incidents. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address World News in Brief: Israeli military escalation in Syria, Nicaragua rights probe, South Sudan talks 3 April 2025 - The UN Special Envoy for Syria has condemned the repeated and intensifying military escalations by Israel in the country, including airstrikes that have caused civilian casualties. "Such actions undermine efforts to build a new Syria at peace with itself and the region, and destabilize Syria at a sensitive time," Geir Pedersen said on Thursday in a statement. He called on Israel to cease these attacks which could amount to serious violations of international law, to respect Syria's sovereignty and existing agreements, and to cease unilateral actions on the ground. The Special Envoy urged all parties to prioritize diplomatic solutions and dialogue to address security concerns and prevent further escalation. Nicaragua: Rights report names 54 officials for alleged violations Top independent experts reporting to the Human Rights Council on Thursday named dozens of Nicaraguan officials who they say are responsible for grave violations, abuses and crimes. The Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua was established by the Council following the deadly suppression of protests in 2018 against President Daniel Ortega, who is serving his fourth term, currently with his co-president and wife Rosario Murillo. The experts - who are not UN staff - have previously alleged that the Central American country has become an authoritarian State by means of a "tightly coordinated system of repression", from the President down to local officials. On 27 February, one day before the Group presented its latest report, Nicaragua announced its withdrawal from the Human Rights Council in Geneva. The independent experts maintain that 54 government, military and party officials played key roles in rights violations including arbitrary detention, torture, extrajudicial executions and persecution of civil society and the media. The investigators have previously accused the Nicaraguan authorities of "widespread and systematic" repression and "weaponizing" every branch of government to strengthen their grip on power. "These are not random or isolated incidents - they are part of a deliberate and well-orchestrated State policy carried out by identifiable actors through defined chains of command," said Ariela Peralta, one of the three experts. The list of names has been shared with the Nicaraguan government, which has previously rejected allegations of rights abuses and refuses to cooperate with the experts. South Sudan talks aim to avert further escalation High-level talks are underway in South Sudan to try and prevent further escalation between forces aligned with the two main parties to the 2018 peace deal, the UN reported on Thursday. Meetings are being held in the capital, Juba, between South Sudan's political leaders and regional Heads of States as well as the African Union Panel of the Wise, comprising highly respected personalities who have contributed to peace, security and development on the continent. During a discussion with the Panel, the Head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Nicholas Haysom, stressed the importance of urgent collective engagement by regional and international partners to help end the hostilities, prevent a relapse into widespread violence and secure a return to the peace agreement. He also highlighted the need for political detainees to be released and for new measures to build trust and confidence between the parties. South Sudan is the world's youngest country, having gained independence from neighbouring Sudan in July 2011. Conflict broke out in December 2013 between troops loyal to President Salva Kiir and opposition forces led by his rival Riek Machar, leaving hundreds of thousands dead. The 2018 peace agreement ended the fighting, but the current crisis threatens to tip the country back into civil war. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UNRWA Commissioner-General, Gaza: Hunger and desperation spread as food and relief assistance are being weaponized UNRWA 3 Apr 2025 03 April 2025 From Philippe Lazzarini, the UNRWA Commissioner-General as posted on his official X account (previously known as Twitter) It's been over a month of total siege. The Israeli authorities continue to ban the entry of basics: food, medicine, fuel: a collective punishment. People are starving, chaos and looting have returned. Yesterday, at UNRWA's Distribution Centre, a man fired shots in the air. Thousands gathered. The centre, surrounding buildings were looted and damaged. This is not an isolated incident. It's a symptom of a breakdown of civil order due to the tight siege. People are exhausted as they continue to be locked up in a tiny piece of land. Aid must be allowed in and the siege must be lifted. Background Information: UNRWA is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. The United Nations General Assembly established UNRWA in 1949 with a mandate to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to registered Palestine refugees in the Agency's area of operations pending a just and lasting solution to their plight. UNRWA operates in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, The Gaza Strip, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. Tens of thousands of Palestine refugees who lost their homes and livelihoods due to the 1948 conflict continue to be displaced and in need of support, nearly 75 years on. UNRWA helps Palestine Refugees achieve their full potential in human development through quality services it provides in education, health care, relief and social services, protection, camp infrastructure and improvement, microfinance, and emergency assistance. UNRWA is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Marines, Air Force fight as a joint force for the first time in the Navy's Joint Simulation Environment US Navy 03 April 2025 From NAWCAD Visual Information NAVAL AIR WARFARE CENTER AIRCRAFT DIVISION, Patuxent River, Md. -- For the first time, U.S. Marine Corps F-35 and Air Force F-22 pilots trained as a joint fighting force in the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division's (NAWCAD) Joint Simulation Environment (JSE) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, March 24-27. The training event brought eight U.S. Marine Corps F-35s to train alongside four Air Force F-22 Raptors in the DOD's most advanced digital test and training range. "This milestone is a game-changer that ushers in a new era of interoperability for aviation's combat community and served as a pivotal exercise getting NAWCAD ready to make this joint training standard for Navy and Air Force fighters starting this spring," said NAWCAD Commander Rear Adm. John Dougherty IV. During the event, F-35B and F-35C pilots from Marine Fighter Attack Squadrons (VMFA) VMFA-122, VMFA-225, and VMFA-311 trained with several F-22 pilots from the Combat Air Forces and test community. Over two days, F-35 and F-22 pilots practiced fifth generation fighting together in 17 simulated combat missions against advanced enemy threats only available at JSE. After each mission, the pilots reviewed their performance using cockpit video and audio recordings. "The cross talk [while training in the JSE] is unparalleled in terms of being able to talk tactics [and] actually get in the same room with people," said F-22 pilot Capt. Brett Myer. "It helps iron out a lot of the small details that really matter when it comes down to it." Real world training on open-air ranges at this scale is expensive, difficult to coordinate, and lacks a realistic threat environment. The JSE solves this problem by providing defense aviation a secure simulated range that puts pilots in threat environments not replicable in real life. "At the end of the day, it's going to be the people that win our nation's wars," said VMFA-225 pilot Maj. Patrick Kaufer. "Having those person-to-person connections between the Air Force, the Navy and the Marine Corps [in the JSE] is the most important part and biggest objective that we're able to achieve." Developed by NAWCAD engineers and industry partners, the JSE is a digital training and test facility that features realistic domed simulators with actual defense hardware, software, and adversary aircraft. The immersive environment enables pilots flying F-35 and F-22 to practice complex combat scenarios and receive instant feedback, accelerating the learning process and honing their skills. Tactical groups training in the JSE fly more sorties in one week than they fly over a year on open-air ranges. NAWCAD's JSE is formally integrated into the Navy's Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor Program commonly known as TOPGUN and efforts are underway to incorporate JSE training across additional warfighter programs. NAWCAD will expand JSE's capabilities with the addition of a highly realistic E-2D Advanced Hawkeye this year, and the F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler next year. NAWCAD's military, civilian, and contract personnel operate test ranges, laboratories, and aircraft in support of test, evaluation, research, development, and sustainment for all Navy and Marine Corps aviation platforms. Based in Patuxent River, Maryland, NAWCAD also has major sites in St. Inigoes, Maryland; Lakehurst, New Jersey; and Orlando, Florida. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Emory S. Land departs Darwin US Navy 03 April 2025 From Petty Officer 1st Class Ian Zagrocki DARWIN, Northern Territory, Australia (April 2, 2025) - The submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) departed Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, following a routine port visit, April 2, 2025. During the visit, Emory S. Land provided logistical support to the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Minnesota (SSN 783). Emory S. Land's port visit demonstrates the flexibility and agility of the fleet to provide logistical support to keep undersea warfare assets ready and operating at sea worldwide. "It is professionally rewarding to share the U.S. Navy's incredibly versatile range of capabilities within the 7th Fleet area of operations," said Capt. Kenneth Holland, commanding officer of Emory S. Land. "The submarine tender is able to provide logistical support to ships and submarines anywhere and anytime in the world to enable our forces to operate at sea and maintain a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region." Minnesota was moored alongside the Emory S. Land in Darwin from March 27 to 31. The crew of the Emory S. Land and Minnesota engaged in community relations projects and sightseeing in Darwin during their visit. "It is an honor and privilege to be hosted by the friendly city and phenomenal people of Darwin. We are grateful and thankful that my crew had the opportunity to return to Darwin and experience the Australia culture once more," said Holland. "As always, we appreciate working with one of our Navy's closest allies." Darwin is the Emory S. Land's 17th port call since the ship departed on deployment May 17, 2024. Emory S. Land provides expeditionary intermediate-level maintenance, services and logistics support to deployed submarines. The Emory S. Land and Minnesota are on deployment supporting the U.S. 7th Fleet, the U.S. Navy's largest forward deployed numbered fleet, operating with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rubio reaffirms U.S. commitment to NATO, calls for increased defense spending People's Daily Online By huaxia (Xinhua) 09:34, April 04, 2025 BRUSSELS, April 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) during his first meeting with the alliance's foreign ministers, while emphasizing the need for more defense spending in Europe. "President Trump has made it clear he supports NATO. We are going to remain in NATO," Rubio told reporters Thursday in Brussels. "The only way NATO can get stronger and more viable is if our partners - the nation-states that comprise this important alliance - have more capability." Rubio said he hoped to leave the meeting with a clear pledge from allies to raise defense spending to 5 percent of their gross domestic product. That figure would more than double NATO's current target of 2 percent, a benchmark some member states have yet to meet. Rubio acknowledged that the proposed 5 percent goal could not be achieved "in one year or two," but said that the U.S. now demanded a real path forward from its allies to build a stronger NATO capable of defending its territories. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte noted that Europe and Canada have made the largest defense spending increases since the Cold War, but echoed Rubio's call for further efforts. Speaking on his way to the meeting, Rutte said he believed defense spendings by European and Canadian allies would need to exceed 3 percent of GDP to meet future security challenges. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Canada launches counter auto tariffs against U.S. People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:23, April 04, 2025 OTTAWA, April 3 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Thursday Canada will be responding by matching the U.S. approach with 25 percent tariffs on all vehicles imported from the United States that are not compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). The prime minister said his government will also impose the tariff on non-Canadian content of any CUSMA-compliant vehicles from the U.S., adding that Mexico won't be impacted. Carney said that the global economy "is fundamentally different today than it was yesterday." "Yesterday's actions by the U.S. administration, while not specifically targeting Canada, will rupture the global economy and adversely impact global economic growth," he said. "Our old relationship of steadily deepening integration with the United States is over. The 80-year period when the United States embraced the mantle of global economic leadership is over," said Carney. Carney also said his government has gone to the World Trade Organization to argue the tariffs violate international trade law. Canada was spared from the 10 percent baseline tariffs, but a 25 per cent U.S. tariff on imported autos went into effect at midnight. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 03 April 2025 - Day 1135 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 UK Ministry of Defence reported that on 31 March 2025, Putin signed a decree for the annual spring conscription cycle, calling up 160,000 Russian men aged 18-30. All eligible Russian men are required to serve one year of military service. Conscripts have generally not been sent to fight in Ukraine. However, conscripts were highly likely involved in fighting in Russia's Kursk oblast following Ukraine's incursion into the region in August 2024. This drew condemnation from Russian parents who complained their sons were being sent to a combat zone with only four months of training. Up to 1,000 Russian conscripts were reportedly sent to Kursk with 250 captured as prisoners of war. Russian conscription cycles occur twice a year, in the spring and autumn. The previous conscription cycle was 01 October 2024. This call up is the largest since 2011. The increase is in line with the Russian Ministry of Defence announcement in December 2022 to increase total personnel in the Armed Forces to 1.5 million by the end of 2026. Russia has likely sustained more than 900,000 casualties fighting in Ukraine. To replace these battlefield losses and sustain the war effort, conscripts will almost certainly be pressured to sign permanent military contracts which make them eligible for duty in Ukraine. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that the Defense Forces are directing efforts to disrupt the execution of Russian invaders' offensive plans and exhaust their combat potential. Since the beginning of the day, there have been 111 combat clashes, the Russian enemy launched one missile and 68 air strikes, using one missile and 121 controlled air bombs, 753 kamikaze drones, carrying out about 4000 shells of Ukrainian troops' positions. In the Kharkiv direction, the Defense Forces repelled three Russian assaults in the direction of Kamyanka and in the area of Vovchansk. The Russian enemy has attacked five times Ukrainian fortifications in the Kupyansky direction in the areas of the settlements Zagrizove, Petropavlivka and in the direction of Nova Kruglyakivka, two clashes are ongoing so far. In the Lyman direction today, Russian troops stormed positions of Ukrainian defenders 17 times near the settlements of Grekivka, Nove, Katerynivka and towards Novomikhailivka, Green Valley, two fighting are ongoing so far. In the Siver ky direction, the Defense Forces repelled three assault actions of Russian troops in the areas of Verkhnyokamiansky and towards Ivano-Daryivka and Vyimka. Today, Ukrainian troops repelled one Russian attack in the direction of Predtechiny in the Kramatorsky direction. In the Toretsky direction, Russian forces for today 16 times stormed the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the areas of Dachnyo, Druzhba, Diliyivka, Toretsky and Leonidivka. In the Pokrovsky direction throughout the day, Russian forces committed 37 assault and offensive actions. Activity of Russian occupiers - in the areas of settlements Novokalinove, Tarasivka, Elizabethtivka, Zvirove, Udaachne, Preobrazhenka, Silver, Novosergiyivka, Nadiivka, Uspenivka, Andriyivka and towards Romanivka, Oleksiyivka and Oleksandropol. The fights have not subsided so far in two locations. According to preliminary calculations, today Ukrainian soldiers eliminated 269 and wounded 135 Russian occupiers in this direction, destroyed an automobile unit, satellite, motorcycle, mortar, nine armored fighting vehicles, four tanks, three infantry fighting vehicles, also significantly damaged a tank and Russian infantry fighting vehicle. In the Novopavliv direction, Russian forces carried out seven attacks on the position of Ukrainian troops, the Russian enemy tried to advance in the direction of Rozliv and Konstantinopol. Three clashes are currently underway. In the Gulyaipil direction, Russian forces caused air strikes with uncontrolled aviation missiles on Novopol and Malinivtsi, to drop on Komishuvakh, did not carry out any active offensive actions. In the Orihivsky direction, eight clashes took place in the areas of the settlements Stepovo, Mali Shcherbaky and Kamianske, three clashes are still ongoing. In the Pridniprovsk direction, Russian forces twice tried to approach the positions of Ukrainian defenders. Defense Forces of Ukraine continue operations in the Kursk direction. Today Ukrainian soldiers repelled seven attacks of the Russian zagarbnytsky army in this direction, two more clashes continue so far. Russian forces launched 334 artillery shells, four of them from jetty systems; carried out 10 air strikes, dropping 17 air strikes. In other directions, there have been no significant changes in the environment. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Belgorod direction, units of the Sever Group of Forces hit manpower and hardware of two mechanised brigades, one motorised infantry brigade, two assault regiments of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and two territorial defence brigades close to Miropolskoye, Prokhody, and Petrushevka (Sumy region). The AFU losses were up to 75 troops, one tank, one armoured fighting vehicle, four motor vehicles, three field artillery guns, and one electronic warfare station. The Zapad Group of Forces' units improved the tactical situation along the front line. Russian troops inflicted fire damage on manpower and hardware of one tank brigade, two mechanised brigades, one assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and one territorial defence brigade near Kamenka, Kondrashovka, Zagoruykovka, Novaya Kruglyakovka (Kharkov region), Novomikhailovka, Redkodub, and Novoye (Donetsk People's Republic). The AFU losses were more than 200 troops, two tanks, one armoured fighting vehicle, four pickup trucks, and six field artillery guns, including one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer. Three enemy ammunition depots were destroyed. Units of the Yug Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and positions. Russian troops launched attacks on three mechanised brigades, one assault brigade of the AFU, one territorial defence brigade, and one National Guard brigade close to Seversk, Minkovka, Verolyubovka, Chasov Yar, Kurdyumovka, Konstantinovka, and Pleshcheyevka (Donetsk People's Republic). The AFU losses were up to 235 troops, one tank, one armoured personnel carrier, seven pickup trucks, and four field artillery guns. One electronic warfare station and two ammunition depots were neutralised. Units of the Tsentr Group of Forces improved the tactical situation. Russian troops hit on manpower and hardware of two mechanised brigades, one jaeger brigade, one air assault brigade, one UAV brigade, one assault regiment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, one marine brigade, two National Guard brigades, and the Omega Special Operations Center Formation close to Dimitrov, Krasnoarmeysk, Kotlino, Lenina, Udachnoye, Preobrazhenka, and Alekseyevka (Donetsk People's Republic). The AFU losses were up to 440 troops, one German-made Leopard tank, four armoured fighting vehicles, including one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier and one French-made VAB armoured personnel carrier. Seven motor vehicles and two artillery guns were neutralised. The Vostok Group of Forces' units continued advancing into the depths of enemy defences and liberated Veseloye (Donetsk People's Republic). Russian troops delivered strikes at manpower and hardware of one tank brigade, three mechanised brigades, one infantry brigade, one airmobile brigade of the AFU, and one territorial defence brigade near Razliv, Yalta, Otradnoye, Volnoye Pole (Donetsk People's Republic), and Yanvarskoye (Dnepropetrovsk region). The AFU losses were up to 125 troops, three motor vehicles, and four field artillery guns, including one Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system. As a result of resolute actions, units of the Dnepr Group of Forces liberated Lobkovoye (Zaporozhye region). Russian troops inflicted fire damage on formations of one mechanised brigade, one mountain assault brigade, three coastal defence brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and two territorial defence brigades close to Orekhov (Zaporozhye region), Ponyatovka, Nikolskoye, and Yantarnoye (Kherson region). The AFU losses were up to 60 troops, seven motor vehicles, and one electronic warfare station. Operational-Tactical Aviation, attack drones, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces engaged a Ukrainian missile and space industry enterprise, shops for manufacturing unmanned aerial vehicles, ammunition depots as well as clusters of enemy manpower and hardware in 148 areas. Air defence systems shot down one guided JDAM aerial bomb and three U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles as well as 138 unmanned aerial vehicles. In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, the AFU losses amounted to: 660 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 49,562 unmanned aerial vehicles, 601 anti-aircraft missile systems, 22,644 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,533 MLRS combat vehicles, 23,198 field artillery guns and mortars, 33,624 units of special military vehicles. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation also reported that in the course of offensive actions, the Sever Group of Forces' units inflicted fire damage on formations of one mechanised brigade, three air assault brigades, and one territorial defence brigade of the AFU near Gornal, Guyevo, and Oleshnya. One AFU counter-attack was repelled. Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, and Artillery strikes engaged AFU manpower and hardware close to Gornal, Guyevo, Oleshnya as well as Basovka, Belovody, Varachino, Vladimirovka, Vodolagi, Zhuravka, Loknya, Miropolye, Novonikolayevka, Sadki, Yunakovka, and Yablonovka in Sumy region. Over the past 24 hours, the AFU losses were more than 180 troops, one infantry fighting vehicle, two armoured fighting vehicles, 11 motor vehicles, two mortars as well as five UAV command posts and one ammunition depot. Since the beginning of hostilities in Kursk direction, the AFU losses amounted to: more than 71,750 troops, 403 tanks, 330 infantry fighting vehicles, 293 armoured personnel carriers, 2,244 armoured fighting vehicles, 2,602 motor vehicles, 592 artillery guns, 53 MLRS launchers, including 13 of HIMARS and seven of MLRS made by the USA, 26 anti-aircraft missile launchers, one self-propelled anti-aircraft system, ten transport-loading vehicles, 123 EW stations, 18 counter-battery warfare radars, ten air defence radars, 56 units of engineering and other materiel, including 23 counterobstacle vehicles, one UR-77 mine clearing vehicle, five bridge launchers, one engineering reconnaissance vehicle as well as 15 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 Counter-Terrorism: EU and Australia hold dialogue European External Action Service (EEAS) 02.04.2025 EEAS Press Team On 2 April, the European Union and Australia held their Counter-Terrorism Dialogue in Brussels. The Dialogue reaffirmed the close counter-terrorism partnership between the EU and Australia. The European Union and Australia reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively in multilateral fora, such as the United Nations, the Global Coalition against Da'esh, and the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum (GCTF), which the EU is co-chairing, to enhance international cooperation in countering terrorism. Discussions covered global and regional threats, including in Southeast Asia, Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the Middle East. The EU and Australia addressed sanctions cooperation, countering terrorist misuse of the internet, and emerging technologies. The meeting was co-chaired by Nadia Costantini, Special Envoy for Counter-Terrorism at the European External Action Service and Gemma Huggins, Australia's Ambassador for Counter-Terrorism. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Organised Immigration Crime Summit organised by the United Kingdom on the 31 March 2025: UK statement to the OSCE Ambassador Holland updates on UK and partners' efforts to fight against Organised Immigration Crime and the protection of our collective border security. 3 April 2025 Location: Vienna Delivered on: 3 April 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered) Thank you Chair. I would like to update the Council on the Organised Immigration Crime Summit convened by the UK in London earlier this week. The Summit brought together a range of partners, countries and international organisations in the global fight against Organised Immigration Crime and the protection of our collective border security. The threat from Organised Immigration Crime is increasing in scale and complexity, spanning multiple countries, nationalities, and criminal methodologies. Criminal gangs are now using sophisticated online tactics to lure potential customers. They are abusing legitimate supply chains, and they are using criminal financial networks to facilitate dangerous and illegal journeys which put thousands of lives at risk each year. This is a global threat, with no respect for national borders. Without firm action, organised crime groups will continue to profit at the expense of vulnerable migrants and international security. We must strengthen global cooperation, disrupt criminal networks, and prevent further loss of life. No single country can tackle these criminal gangs alone. Only a coordinated international response, across the whole irregular migration route, can effectively dismantle these networks. Disrupting criminal financial flows, particularly the cross-border movement of illicit cash and commodities, requires all countries to work together across supply chains. This event engaged both European nations and key source and transit countries, ensuring a broader, more comprehensive approach to tackling Organised Immigration Crime. It delivered across Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa, and North America by strengthening international partnerships, enhancing intelligence-sharing, and implementing targeted disruptions to crime networks. Through effective partnerships and shared international commitments, we can deliver change. Together, we can dismantle the online advertising and recruitment networks used by criminal gangs, target the financial enablers of irregular migration through operational disruption and promote an integrated approach to better understanding the scale of Organised Immigration Crime financial flows. I look forward to next week's Security Committee meeting on irregular migration which I hope can consider the OSCE's role on this issue. Tackling irregular migration, and specifically, people smuggling, requires a united, determined, sustained and sustainable, effort. Together, we can drive meaningful action, ensuring a safer and more secure future for all. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, Australia demonstrate current, future space priorities at Avalon International Airshow United States Space Force Published April 3, 2025 By 1st Lt. Casey Sturdivan Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs MELBOURNE, Australia (AFNS) -- U.S. and Australian forces demonstrated their combined focus on cooperation, warfighting effectiveness and lethality in the Indo-Pacific space domain during the Avalon International Airshow and Trade Days, March 25-30. Avalon is the Southern Hemisphere's largest airshow and aerospace and defense exposition. During the 2025 event, multiple industry exhibits, keynote speakers and engagements focused on current priorities and future development of space concerns. Australian Army Lieutenant General Susan Coyle, chief of the Joint Capabilities Group, served as one of the keynote speakers during the event. She urged attendees to consider both the advantages of space superiority and the necessity to rise to the challenges of the future. "Space has never been more contested and never been more central to Australian interests. Losing in space is not an option," Coyle said. Reinforcing the criticality of partnerships in space, U.S. Space Force Col. Eamon Murray, director, Strategy, Plans and Force Development, U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific, shared the need to continue development alongside Australian partners. "We must be integrated with our allies, our partners, and our industry counterparts from the beginning, ensuring that unity of effort is the starting point and not just the outcome," Murray said. "Global reliance on space, coupled with the growing sophistication of adversaries who seek to exploit that reliance, make space a true warfighting domain. Murray also shared the necessity of combined U.S. and Australian exercises such as Cobra Gold and Talisman Sabre. These recurring exercises test and perfect the integration between the two nations needed to collectively respond to emerging regional threats, regardless of domain. "We are living in an era of profound transformation in the space domain," Murray said. "An era that demands bold action, deep collaboration and a commitment to resilience in the face of threats." To inspire future bold action and further interest in space careers from a young age, the U.S. based Endeavour scholarship used Avalon as a platform to award four space-inspired students and one educator the opportunity to attend "Space Camp USA" in summer 2025. "Today we don't just look from earth to space, we also look from space to earth to guide our lives," said Royal Australian Air Force Group Captain Katherine Bennell-Pegg, director of Space Technology, Australian Space Agency. "The next greatest discoveries, the next most impactful discoveries for humans, are going to come from a place beyond all horizons, and perhaps one day from a place with new horizons." The weeklong Space Camp program allows students from 10 countries around the globe to attend a weeklong astronaut training in Huntsville, Alabama. These young students work alongside allied nations to not only develop their understanding of space capabilities, but to further international cooperation and dedication to mutual space priorities. "The Endeavour scholarship has supported me to look outside of regular career paths and inspired me to literally reach for the stars when thinking of what I want to pursue," said Ruby-Jane Roberts, 2024 scholarship recipient and program alumni. The scholarship program intends to both encourage careers in STEM education and bolster critical international cooperation, a key component of continued success in the space realm. "Put simply, space is too big and too important for us to go alone," Coyle said. "It's all about ensuring that we have a unity of purpose that is built on a solid foundation of trust." U.S. participation in Avalon is a testament to the strength of the alliance and U.S. dedication to working with partners to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, on all frontiers. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 21st Security Forces Squadron improves military excellence, readiness with field training exercise United States Space Force Published April 3, 2025 By Senior Airman Justin Todd Space Base Delta 1 Public Affairs PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFNS) -- The 21st Security Forces Squadron sharpened its Air Base Ground Defense skills during a recent field training exercise at Peterson Space Force Base. This exercise was designed to evaluate and refine tactical movements that have been instilled over the past several months, ensuring security forces Airmen are prepared for a deployed environment. "The 21st Security Forces Squadron is honing foundational warfighting skills," said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Andrew Hill, 21st SFS noncommissioned officer in charge of training. "These tactics are critical to SBD 1's support during possible real-world operations across the world." Hill collaborated with his fellow trainers in the 21st SFS, including Tech. Sgt. Esteban Goniwicha, 21st SFS unit trainer, to plan the exercise. Hill and Goniwicha both have prior experience as pre-deployment instructors. Their valuable expertise ensures the Defenders of the 21st SFS are a lethal fighting force. "Airmen need to stay ready," Goniwicha said. "We need to stay lethal and able to combat any threat we come across." That's exactly what the unit trainers from the 21st SFS reinforced throughout this exercise. Master Sgt. Peter Patera, 21st SFS NCOIC of weapons and tactics, was also critical to planning this exercise. Both Patera and Hill have gone through the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course. "Master Sgt. Patera and I are part of a very limited number in our career field, less than 1%." Hill said about graduating from the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course. For this exercise, the security forces Airmen were given multiple locations to visit, acting upon intelligence that needed investigating. The end goal was to set up a Forward Arming and Refueling Point. This is a scenario they could encounter during Agile Combat Employment operations. En route to the FARP, the Airmen received intelligence from a "local farmer" someone acting as a local in a deployed environment of militia presence. The militia was reported to have planted bombs in the area. The Airmen were tasked with investigating the intelligence en route to the FARP. During this part of the training, the Airmen experienced what it was like to work in a joint environment with the 21st Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight. After simulating the explosion of an improvised explosive device, the Airmen had to provide Tactical Combat Casualty Care to a wounded member of the EOD flight. After doing this, they called in a nine-line casualty medical evacuation and transported the wounded individual on a collapsible litter. "Tactical Combat Casualty Case is a major benefit for anyone who holds that knowledge, as they can provide life-saving care to anyone around them." said Tech. Sgt. Tyler Bacon, 21st SFS NCOIC of investigation. Bacon is one of the TCCC instructors for Space Base Delta 1. "This exercise gave our Defenders hands-on experience to further build on their TCCC skillset." After this, the team pushed on and successfully established the FARP. "We're having to adapt and learn different ways to deal with the strategies that our enemies are employing," said Master Sgt. Joshua Aleprete, 21st SFS individual mobilization augmentee superintendent. "This exercise is about not only learning but also putting it to the test." Beyond bolstering base security, the skills that the Airmen demonstrated during this exercise are transferable to both defensive and offensive operations. By incorporating lessons learned from prior Explosive Ordnance Disposal training events, the Defenders of the 21st SFS enhanced their ability to operate effectively in changing environments and demonstrated consistent military excellence and readiness. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Canada announces new countermeasures in response to tariffs from the United States of America Prime Minister of Canada - Mark Carney April 3, 2025 Ottawa, Ontario Yesterday, the United States administration announced a series of unwarranted and unjustified tariffs that will fundamentally change the international trading system. While some important elements of the Canada U.S. trade relationship have been preserved, new tariffs on automobiles have now entered into force. These are on top of the previously announced tariffs, including those on steel and aluminum, which remain in place. The U.S. tariffs will do harm to American workers and businesses, but Canada will also be impacted, with every Canadian feeling the effects. The Government of Canada's position has always been clear: we will fight these tariffs, protect our workers, and build the strongest economy in the G7. The Prime Minister of Canada, Mark Carney, today announced new countermeasures to protect Canadian workers and businesses and defend Canada's economy. These countermeasures include: Twenty-five per cent tariffs on non-CUSMA compliant fully assembled vehicles imported into Canada from the United States. Twenty-five per cent tariffs on non-Canadian and non-Mexican content of CUSMA compliant fully assembled vehicles imported into Canada from the United States. Canada's intention to develop a framework for auto producers that incentivizes production and investment in Canada. Most importantly, every single dollar raised from these tariffs will go directly to support our auto workers. These measures build on the Government of Canada's previously announced supports to Canadian workers and business, including: Temporarily waiving the one-week employment insurance (EI) waiting period. Suspending rules around separation for a six-month period, so workers don't have to exhaust severance pay before collecting EI. Making it easier to access EI by increasing regional unemployment rate percentages. Deferring corporate income tax payments and GST/HST remittances from April 2 to June 30, 2025, providing up to $40 billion in liquidity to businesses. Deploying a new financing facility for businesses. Providing more funding to Canada's regional development agencies, so they can better support businesses. In a crisis like this, it's important to come together and act with strength, purpose, and force - and that's exactly what we're doing. Quote "The global economy is fundamentally different today than yesterday. We must respond with purpose and force and take every step to protect Canadian workers and businesses against the unjust tariffs imposed by the United States, including on automobiles. We will never cease to defend the interests of Canadians, safeguard our workers and businesses, and continue our pursuit to build the strongest economy in the G7." The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada Quick Facts Canada and the United States have the world's most comprehensive and dynamic trading relationship, which supports millions of jobs in both countries. US$2.5 billion worth of goods and services cross the border every day. On March 4, 2025, U.S. tariffs of 25 per cent on Canadian goods and 10 per cent on energy and potash exports from Canada to the U.S. came into effect. On March 12, 2025, the U.S. imposed tariffs of 25 per cent on Canadian steel and aluminum products. On April 3, U.S. tariffs of 25 per cent on Canadian automobiles came into effect, targeting the auto industry and the more than 500,000 Canadians this industry supports across the country. The U.S. also intends to apply 25 per cent tariffs on certain automobile parts before May 3. Under the U.S. tariffs certain exclusions linked to U.S. content may be available, specifically, the application of the 25 per cent tariff only to the value of the non-U.S. content in automobiles and auto parts that qualify for preferential tariff treatment under CUSMA. Canada has responded to the U.S. imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods by introducing a suite of countermeasures designed to compel the U.S. to remove the tariffs as soon as possible. These countermeasures include: Imposing tariffs of 25 per cent on a valued $30 billion in goods imported from the U.S., effective March 4, 2025. Launching a public comment period on potential counter tariffs on additional imports from the U.S. Imposing, as of March 13, 2025, 25 per cent reciprocal tariffs on a list of steel products worth $12.6 billion and aluminum products worth $3 billion, as well as additional imported U.S. goods worth $14.2 billion, for a total of $29.8 billion to match U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum dollar-for-dollar. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prime Minister Carney meets with premiers to discuss next steps in Canada's response to U.S. tariffs Prime Minister of Canada - Mark Carney April 3, 2025 Ottawa, Ontario Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met virtually with provincial and territorial premiers to discuss Canada's co-ordinated response to the United States' auto and reciprocal tariffs. The Prime Minister was joined by the Minister of International Trade and Intergovernmental Affairs and President of the King's Privy Council, Dominic LeBlanc. Canada's First Ministers condemned the ongoing imposition of tariffs, which put thousands of good-paying jobs in both Canada and the U.S. at risk. While some important elements of the Canada-U.S. relationship have been preserved, Prime Minister Carney noted that the U.S. trade action will cause profound economic damage. First Ministers discussed how Canada is responding to the latest U.S. tariffs and defending the Canadian economy. Prime Minister Carney consulted with premiers on a response that maximizes impacts in the U.S., minimizes impacts on Canadians, and avoids escalating a trade crisis that Canada has worked hard to prevent. Canada will ensure that the proceeds of retaliatory tariffs will support workers and businesses affected by the U.S. tariffs. The Prime Minister noted the importance of maintaining resolve and unity as we confront this challenge. Prime Minister Carney shared updates with premiers on his recent conversations with U.S. and other international partners, including the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum. Prime Minister Carney committed to continuing to meet with the premiers in the weeks ahead. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prime Minister Carney speaks with Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz Prime Minister of Canada - Mark Carney April 3, 2025 Ottawa, Ontario Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz. Prime Minister Carney and Chancellor Scholz highlighted the successes of Hannover Messe, the world's leading trade show for industrial technology, for which Canada is the Partner Country for 2025. The two leaders discussed the importance of reliable partners working together to protect transatlantic security and deepen economic ties, particularly in the current global trade context. The Prime Minister shared his plan to fight the United States' unjustified trade actions against Canada, protect Canadian workers and businesses, and build Canada's economy. Prime Minister Carney and Chancellor Scholz underscored the close bilateral relationship between Canada and Germany, and they agreed to remain in close contact. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press Statement of Vice General Director of General Armaments Bureau of Ministry of National Defence of DPRK Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, April 2 (KCNA) -- The vice general director of the General Armaments Bureau of the Ministry of National Defence of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea issued the following press statement on April 1 under the title "The new 'co-produced weapon' of the U.S.-Japan military alliance signals the further unstable security environment of the region": The U.S.-Japan alliance styling itself a key axis of the U.S.-led military alliance system in the Asia-Pacific region is taking on a fresh appearance to give repeated signals of instability to the surrounding countries and the regional society. A typical example is that the U.S. and Japan formally agreed to co-produce the latest air-to-air missile AIM-120, with the recent visit of the U.S. secretary of Defense to Japan as an occasion. What is serious is that it can never be accepted only as the production of weapons for fighters aimed at defending airspace and securing the command of the air. The danger of it is further highlighted in the light of the peculiarities of the geopolitical and military security environment in Northeast Asia. All types of main fighters, involved in the U.S.-Japan and U.S.-Japan-ROK three party joint aerial drills that we have frequently witnessed in the sky near the Korean peninsula and further in the sky above the East Sea and South Sea of China, can carry the AIM-120 with a range of more than 160 km. In view of the military doctrine of the U.S. Air Force which specified that the command of the air should be secured through massive introduction and use of the ultra-modern long-range air weapons such as AIM-120, the anti-aircraft system of enemy states be neutralized through preemptive strike and then strategic bombers be sent to deal a heavy blow to the strategic depth of the opponent, AIM-120 is now becoming another "co-produced weapon" of the U.S.-Japan military alliance, which is turning offensive and aggressive from A to Z. The joint production of ultra-modern weapons pursued by the U.S. and Japan is adding new element of strategic instability to the Asia-Pacific region, bringing ominous dark clouds. The U.S. has connived at and encouraged Japan's moves for a military giant since last century. It has sharply expanded the application range of the U.S.-Japan security treaty, which was limited to "contingency in Japan", to space and cyber fields, to say nothing of "contingencies in areas surrounding Japan" in recent years. It has also actively backed Japan's possession of "counterattack capability" and unhesitatingly offered long-range attack means such as Tomahawk cruise missile. At a time when the U.S. and Japan are seeking to integrate the existing military operation control system through the U.S. military reorganization in Japan and the establishment of the "integrated operation command" and to steadily access to the wartime environment, their cooperation in the field of munitions industry is being accelerated in direct proportion to it. It is not a secret that such moves are aimed at militarily deterring the regional countries. Certainly, the center of gravity of the U.S. hegemony-oriented military security strategy is changing and it is a new warning signal for the Asia-Pacific regional society including the countries in Northeast Asia. A force without justice is a tyranny and justice without a force is meaningless. It will be a priority task of the DPRK in the future, too, to actively cope with the unstable strategic environment being created around the DPRK by the U.S. and its followers and to bolster up the powerful deterrence capable of making enemy countries have no other choice but to give up their political and military ambition. The DPRK's efforts to apply the most appropriate solution to control and manage the military tension in the region will continue, and Washington and its servants' attempt to hold military hegemony will never be allowed. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address "The course we are charting now will shape the future of our continent for decades" - Foreign Minister Baerbock travels to Kyiv, Chisinau and Brussels Germany Federal Foreign Office 03.04.2025 - Article Find out here why European security is the aim and object of Foreign Minister Baerbock's trip to Ukraine, Moldova and the meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs. Today, Foreign Minister Baerbock will visit Ukraine for the eleventh time since taking office. Also in this fourth year since Russia launched its attack on the whole of Ukraine, the Ukrainian people continue to brave the storm of constant missile and drone attacks on housing and energy infrastructure. Mindful of their courage and determination, the Foreign Minister issued the following statement upon her arrival in Kyiv: Each and every day, Ukrainians continue to ward off the most brutal Russian attacks. Every night they defend their country against massive missile and drone attacks. And every morning the people in Ukraine find the courage to carry on. To carry so they can uphold as much normality as they can in the midst of a brutal war - for themselves and their families. In the Ukrainian capital, Foreign Minister Baerbock will meet with representatives from politics and civil society. One focus will be on the steps Ukraine is taking to keep moving towards EU membership, even though the illegal war against the country continues unabated. The Foreign Minister commented: Germany will not abandon the people in Ukraine - our European neighbours. The decision of the current and future governing parties to provide an additional 3 billion euro for short-term support for Ukraine and to earmark a further 8.25 billion euro for military support up until 2029 reflects this firm solidarity and close connection across the party-political spectrum. The historic amendment to our constitution is likewise a clear sign that we are serious about continuing our support for Ukraine and serious about European security. The second stop on her trip has now become a byword for a determined reform process to draw closer to the EU: Moldova. The Republic of Moldova is likewise exposed to increased Russian interference. The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has posed major challenges for the country: when the war first broke out, Moldova took in the largest number of refugees from Ukraine per capita. The war also exacerbated the energy crisis in the country. Yet, with the support of Germany and its partners, Moldova has managed to stabilise its economy and weather the storm caused by the hybrid Russian attacks. Moldova has been an EU accession candidate since June 2022. Before travelling to Chisinau, Foreign Minister Baerbock presents a clear analysis of the situation: Ahead of the parliamentary elections this autumn, Putin will get out his familiar playbook: with disinformation, fake-news campaigns and vote buying, he will try once more to undermine democracy and freedom in Moldova. However, Moldova's democracy is resilient, a future in the EU within reach. We Europeans will therefore not let up in our support and continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Moldova. The people in Ukraine and Moldova are standing up not just for their own future but also for European security as a whole. Foreign Minister Baerbock's third stop will also focus on Europe's security: exactly two weeks after the EU member states' landmark decision to make available 800 billion euro for their defence capability in the coming years, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of NATO countries are coming together in Brussels. With their meeting, the European countries in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization are issuing a clear message: in the face of Russian threats, we are investing in our defence capability on a massive scale and thus also in strengthening NATO itself. Foreign Minister Baerbock: We want to keep living in a Europe where the strength of the law is placed above the law of the strong. A Europe where people can determine their own future and armed force is not used to redraw borders. We as Europeans are bringing all our weight to bear here. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi resistance reacts to Trump's threats against Iran IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Apr 3, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Secretary General of the Sayyed Al-Shuhada Brigades in the Popular Mobilization Forces of Iraq Abu Alaa al-Walae has reacted to United States President Donald Trump's empty threats leveled against Iran, stating that Iraq will stand by Iran. In a post on his X account on Thursday, al-Walae said that an honorable person will never remain neutral when confronted with right and wrong. He referred to the historical figures, comparing [Prophet] Moses (PBUH) and Pharaoh, as well as [Prophet] Muhammad (PBUH) and Abu Jahl, and then compared Iran with the United States. "Just as we have stood by Palestine, whenever needed, we will stand by the Islamic Republic of Iran with our conscience and blood and defend it," he emphasized. "Our principles are steadfast and unchangeable, O God, you be witness," he added. 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia blasts Trump's 'unacceptable' threat of bombing Iran Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 7:11 PM Russia has slammed President Donald Trump's threat to bomb Iran if it does not make a deal with the US, stating that such a scenario could result in a "catastrophe." "The use of military force by Iran's opponents in the context of the settlement is illegal and unacceptable. Threats from outside to bomb Iran's nuclear infrastructure facilities will inevitably lead to an irreversible global catastrophe. These threats are simply unacceptable," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov also stated that the "consequences of this, especially if there are strikes on the nuclear infrastructure, could be catastrophic for the entire region." Ryabkov went on to note that Moscow "condemns US threats" against Tehran. In an interview with NBC News on Saturday, Trump threatened Iranians with "bombing the likes of which they have never seen before" if Tehran did not make a deal with the United States. In a letter sent to the UN chief and the president of the Security Council on Monday, Iran's Permanent Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, warned that the Security Council's failure to act against the threats risks catastrophic consequences not only for the region but also for international peace and security. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht Ravachi held talks on his country's nuclear issue with Ryabkov on Wednesday. "The sides stressed the illegality and inadmissibility of the use of military force by Iran's opponents to resolve disagreements and the unacceptability of threats from the outside to bomb Iran's nuclear energy infrastructure, as this will inevitably lead to large-scale and irreversible radiological and humanitarian consequences for the entire Middle East region and the world as a whole," the Russian Foreign Ministry said. On Wednesday, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that the Islamic Republic would "swiftly and decisively" respond to any aggression on its territorial integrity, sovereignty, and national interests. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Tel Aviv in shock as Trump imposes tariffs on all Israeli goods Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 7:25 AM Israeli officials are in shock after US President Donald Trump announced a 17% tariff on all Israeli goods, despite Tel Aviv's recent removal of all duties on American imports. Trump's tariff hike came only a day after Israel announced the removal of all tariffs on imported goods from the US. Experts believe Israel's decision was in hopes of a similar tariff cut on America's part. However, Israeli officials were shocked to learn that the US government not only refused to remove tariffs on Israeli goods, but rather introduced increased tariffs. "We are in shock. We were sure that the decision to completely cancel tariffs on imports from the US would prevent this move. But it didn't happen," said Israeli journalist Amichai Stein, citing Israeli officials. US and Israel's bilateral trade stood at $34 billion in 2024, with America being Israel's largest trade partner. The tariff hike was part of Trump's sweeping "reciprocal" tariffs announcement, which included tariff rates for all countries in the world. Trump's new tariffs on imported goods start at a minimum of 10%, with countries such as Turkey, Egypt and Saudi Arabia being placed in this minimum category. Commentators have also pointed out that ironically Iranian goods are subject to a lower tariff rate (10%) than Israeli goods, although the US has long imposed a trade embargo on Iran. It remains unclear how the Trump administration deliberated for setting the new tariff rates for individual countries, and whether these new tariffs will be revised in the coming days. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UNHCR rushes emergency supplies to quake-hit central Myanmar UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Babar Baloch - to whom quoted text may be attributed - at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. 1 April 2025 As aftershocks continue to pound central Myanmar following the earthquake on 28 March, UNHCR has rushed emergency supplies from Yangon to some 25,000 earthquake survivors in the Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw areas. We are mobilizing more relief items from our existing stocks in Myanmar, and hope these plastic sheets, sleeping mats, blankets, kitchen sets and mosquito nets can provide some relief in these turbulent times. Our team is currently identifying critical needs in the worst-affected areas of Mandalay, Magway and Sagaing Regions as part of an inter-agency rapid needs assessment. The most urgent requirement is to deploy shelter and relief items to the affected areas. It is also essential to monitor risks around explosive ordnance, family separation, child protection and gender-based violence. UNHCR is communicating with the affected communities on safety issues and the provision of emergency aid. The earthquake and its aftershocks compound an already desperate situation in a country reeling from four years of conflict. The quake-hit areas are home to 45 per cent of the 3.5 million internally displaced people across Myanmar. UNHCR continues to advocate for unimpeded humanitarian access to help these communities who need urgent assistance. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Myanmar quake death toll tops 3,000 as junta hampers aid efforts Mandalay residents are sheltering in public parks to avoid aftershocks. By RFA Burmese 2025.04.03 -- The death toll from the devastating Myanmar earthquake rose past 3,000 on Thursday, according to the country's military-controlled television, as a junta security clampdown slowed aid in some areas. The 7.7 magnitude quake, which struck Friday between Sagaing town and Mandalay city, left many people without food, clean water and shelter in Naypyidaw, Bago and Magway regions as well as Shan state. Myanmar Radio and Television reported 3,085 dead on Thursday, more than 4,700 people injured and 341 missing. Nearly a week after the disaster, aid organizations were still conducting search and rescue operations, but many areas remain inaccessible, making it difficult to estimate the total number of people affected, said one volunteer. The earthquake affected 17 million people across 57 of the country's 330 townships, 9 million severely, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimated Thursday. A total of 65 aftershocks occurred between Friday's earthquake and Thursday morning, the junta's meteorology department said in a statement. In Mandalay, aftershocks forced residents to pitch tents in parks and other open areas, said one resident, who declined to be named for security reasons. "In Mandalay when the aftershocks were happening, people were extremely worried. Houses were collapsing, apartment walls were cracking, we didn't dare to stay there," he said. "We don't have any hope for our houses. With the aftershocks, we're just worried about not losing our lives." Close inspections Sagaing and Mandalay regions are hotbeds of insurgency following the 2021 military coup that prompted civilians to join the dozens of ethnic armed groups and people's defense forces. Tensions are high in rescue areas, volunteers said, where the junta has imposed a 10 p.m. curfew and continued to bomb areas with a high rebel presence in spite of proposed ceasefires by several insurgent armies. On Tuesday, junta spokesperson Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun admitted soldiers had shot at a convoy of vehicles carrying China Red Cross supplies in northern Shan state's Nawnghkio township, state media said. On Thursday morning, junta forces began strictly monitoring vehicles entering and exiting Sagaing town, with some turned away, said an eye witness. "Since morning, they've covered all the entrances and exits. Cars were blocked on the bridge until this afternoon," he said, declining to be named for fear of reprisals. "Some of the cars that were crossing the bridge to help were sent back to Mandalay." Strict inspections of goods has led to thousands of cars waiting at the entrance, the eyewitness said. Although there was a junta presence on Sagaing's roads before the earthquake, inspections have become stricter than ever, said another resident whose vehicle was checked on Thursday. The junta has yet to deliver aid to individuals affected by the earthquake, Sagaing residents said. Junta spokesperson Zaw Min Tun did not answer calls. The U.N. warned Thursday of longer-term impacts from the quake which comes ahead of the June crop-planting season. It said that areas badly affected by the quake -- Mandalay, Magway, Sagaing and Shan state - account for a third of Myanmar's cereal production. The U.N. also cautioned that the risk of landmine and explosive ordnance in the country's conflict zones has significantly increased as earthquakes can destabilize explosives. Translated by Kiana Duncan. Edited by Mike Firn and Stephen Wright. Updated with details from U.N. humanitarian report including on numbers of people impacted by the quake. Copyright 1998-2025, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content April not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Myanmar: UN chief calls for urgent access as quake toll mounts By Vibhu Mishra 3 April 2025 - The UN chief on Thursday called for immediate and unrestricted humanitarian access to Myanmar, where last week's devastating earthquakes claimed over 3,000 lives and left millions in urgent need of aid. Speaking to reporters at UN Headquarters in New York, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the earthquake has "supercharged the suffering". "Myanmar today is the scene of utter devastation and desperation," he said. He emphasised that even before the disaster, the country was grappling with political turmoil, human rights abuses and a worsening humanitarian situation. "We need rapid action on several fronts," he said. Millions in desperate need According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 17 million people have been affected by the earthquakes, with nearly nine million experiencing the highest level of devastation. Over 370 people remain missing, while thousands of others are injured. Telecommunications, power, and water supply systems have collapsed in the hardest-hit regions, leaving survivors without basic necessities and humanitarians struggling to reach them. Road access between Yangon and central Myanmar requires detours, delaying aid deliveries, while commercial flights to Mandalay remain suspended. "The hardest-hit areas remain without electricity and water, while telecommunications and internet access are severely disrupted, cutting off affected communities from essential services," OCHA said in a flash update. Meanwhile, entire families, including children, are sleeping in the open due to fears of aftershocks or because their homes have been destroyed. Makeshift shelters are overcrowded and lack security and privacy, increasing the risk of sexual- and gender-based violence, UN agencies warn, calling for urgent measures to ensure safety and dignity of women and girls. UN mobilizing support Mr. Guterres announced that he is dispatching UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher to Myanmar to oversee relief operations. "He will be on the ground tomorrow," Mr. Guterres said, adding that Special Envoy Julie Bishop will visit Myanmar in the coming days to reinforce the UN's commitment to peace and dialogue. The UN has also allocated $5 million from its Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) for immediate aid, while the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) has mobilized $12 million for food, shelter, water, sanitation, debris removal and healthcare. However, these funds fall far short of what is needed. "I appeal to the international community to immediately step up vitally needed funding to match the scale of this crisis," Mr. Guterres said. Call for unhindered access One of the biggest obstacles to relief efforts is the ongoing conflict in Myanmar. The country has been in turmoil since the military overthrew the democratically elected government in 2021, leading to widespread violence and displacement. While Myanmar's military and armed opposition groups have announced temporary ceasefires to facilitate aid deliveries, Mr. Guterres stressed that these must translate into lasting peace. "I appeal for rapid, safe, sustained and unimpeded humanitarian access to reach those most in need across the country," he said, calling on all parties to uphold their obligations to protect civilians. Monsoon risks As humanitarian operations scale up, UN agencies have warned that time is running out. Initial assessments indicate that more than 76 per cent of those surveyed have yet to receive any assistance. With the monsoon season approaching, the risk of disease outbreaks and further displacement looms large. Return to democracy Beyond immediate relief efforts, Mr. Guterres called for the earthquake response to serve as a turning point for Myanmar. He called for the current tragic moment to become an opportunity for the people of Myanmar, appealing for a political process that includes an end to violence, the release of political prisoners and a pathway to democracy. "As communities across Myanmar unite in grief, it is also time to unite behind a political solution to end the brutal conflict," Mr. Guterres said. In addition to restoring democracy, he stressed the need for a comprehensive solution that includes the safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable return of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh. "The United Nations will keep pushing for peace and lifesaving support for the people of Myanmar in their hour of need." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WFP delivers aid to hardest-hit areas in earthquake-stricken Myanmar World Food Programme 3 April 2025 MANDALAY, Myanmar - Within 48 hours of the powerful earthquake that struck central Myanmar on Friday afternoon, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) began emergency food distributions to affected communities. WFP has so far reached over 24,000 earthquake survivors in four areas, Mandalay, Naypyitaw, Sagaing and Shan, and is scaling up efforts to assist 850,000 affected people. Here are the latest updates on WFP's emergency quake operations in Myanmar. WFP Food Distributions WFP has ongoing food assistance operations in the hardest-hit areas of Mandalay, Naypyitaw, Sagaing and Shan. Sagaing: WFP has reached nearly 4,000 people with food rations in conflict-hit Sagaing, already home to a third of Myanmar's internally displaced population before the earthquake. WFP has reached nearly 4,000 people with food rations in conflict-hit Sagaing, already home to a third of Myanmar's internally displaced population before the earthquake. Mandalay City: At the epicentre in Mandalay, WFP has distributed fortified biscuits to more than 15,000 people since 1 April. WFP also reached 480 households - about 2,400 people - in Sein Pan, one of the poorest and worst-impacted ward in Mandalay, where almost every resident lost their home due to the earthquake and a subsequent fire. At the epicentre in Mandalay, WFP has distributed fortified biscuits to more than 15,000 people since 1 April. WFP also reached 480 households - about 2,400 people - in Sein Pan, one of the poorest and worst-impacted ward in Mandalay, where almost every resident lost their home due to the earthquake and a subsequent fire. Southern Shan: WFP and partners have so far reached 4,000 people with assistance. WFP and partners have so far reached 4,000 people with assistance. Nay Pyi Taw : Since food distributions started on 30 March, a total of 1,000 people have received fortified biscuits from WFP. : Since food distributions started on 30 March, a total of 1,000 people have received fortified biscuits from WFP. WFP has dispatched more than 100 metric tons of food from Yangon to Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, and Sagaing. WFP has over 200 metric tons of fortified biscuits available for immediate distribution, with an additional 7,000 metric tons of food stocks in-country to assist those hardest hit. WFP aims to reach 100,000 people with ready-to-eat food in the first phase of response, followed by food assistance for 850,000 people for one month. Assessments, logistics and coordination: WFP has established a central response hub in Nay Pyi Taw to coordinate the earthquake response and has rapidly deployed teams to Mandalay. WFP is collaborating with partners on rapid needs assessments in Mandalay, Sagaing, Shan and Nay Pyi Taw, while also evaluating market access and functionality. An interagency Rapid Needs Assessment is ongoing, with results expected soon. Response challenges: Access to earthquake hit areas and unreliable telecommunications continue to pose challenges for WFP and partners to mount a full-scale response to the massive needs. WFP urgently needs US$ 40 million to support 850,000 people affected by the earthquake. Myanmar is already facing severe food insecurity, with 15.2 million people - one in four - food insecure. Despite escalating humanitarian needs, WFP's funding shortfalls recently forced the suspension of assistance to over one million people, leaving only 35,000 of the most vulnerable currently receiving monthly support from WFP. # # # The United Nations World Food Programme is the world's largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ministry of Foreign Affairs summons Russia's charge d'affaires for unpaid pensions Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 03.04.2025 Today 3 April, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned a representative of the Russian embassy to present a diplomatic note concerning pensions left unpaid by Russia. The note states that in the first quarter of 2025, Russia has not fulfilled its obligations under the pension insurance cooperation agreement and its implementing agreement signed between the Republic of Estonia and the Russian Federation, which entered into force in 2012. Subsequently, nearly 4000 people who live in Estonia and receive a pension from Russia have not received their pensions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs asked the Russian embassy for an explanation on why there have been no payments and which steps have been taken to solve the issue. The note also asked to provide a date when payments would be made. The Foreign Ministry representative assured the representative of the Russian embassy that Estonia would not block the transfer of payments to our banks. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Meeting with Director General of the Russian Export Centre Veronika Nikishina Director General of the Russian Export Centre Veronika Nikishina briefed the President on the growth of Russia's non-resource and non-energy exports and the contribution of state development institutions to the realisation of the domestic businesses' export potential. April 3, 2025 14:05 The Kremlin, Moscow President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Ms Nikishina, is it correct that 1.38 trillion rubles' worth of projects have been implemented with the support of the insurance support you head? Director General of the Russian Export Centre Veronika Nikishina: Yes, that is correct. Vladimir Putin: Is there anything you need, such as more funds? Veronika Nikishina: No, Mr President. The Russian Export Centre (REC) is part of the VEB.RF group. It is a specialised institution established to support the key sectors of Russian industry, such as mechanical engineering, timber processing and agro-industrial complexes, metallurgy, and chemistry of high limits. The REC is aware of the importance of our work for at least the following three reasons. To begin with, no country in the world can succeed without effective and strong non-resource exports, which are an essential element of the country's connection to its key partners. This is exactly why various protectionist measures have been used to restrict our economic power in these sectors. This began long before 2022, it's just that in 2022, as they say, the masks were pulled off. Second, non-resource exports are a foundational feature of a cluster of globally competitive companies. To maintain their leadership and competitiveness in international markets, they need to continuously improve their products technologically. In other words, non-resource exports are a driving force behind our technological advancement and these companies' leadership. Third, and very importantly, non-resource exports create high-performance and high-paying jobs. Moreover, one job in the non-primary products sector leads to the creation of two jobs in related sectors due to intersectoral cooperation, such as the supply of component parts, transport, technological, engineering and other sectors. To date, six million jobs have been created in Russia thanks to non-resource exports. We, the Russian Export Centre, are part of the export support system, which has evolved through a three-stage process over the past few years. The first stage began in 2018, when non-resource exports were declared a national goal in accordance with Presidential Executive Order On National Goals and Strategic Development Objectives of the Russian Federation until 2024. A national project was formulated in 2019, and we started forging the best export support system in the world - something I can substantiate with figures. The system was structured around three key elements: the tools outlined in the national project, the resources allocated to implement them, and infrastructure that provided these tools. Why is our state export support system the best in the world? In 2018-2021, our non-resource exports grew by 28 percent, significantly outpacing global trends. In 2021, we posted record-breaking non-resource exports. Then came 2022 and the imposition of sanctions, marking the second stage in the evolution of our export support system. The main objective during this stage was to readjust disrupted trade ties and to redirect exports to markets of the friendly countries. By the end of last year, we successfully completed this stage. Today, 85 percent of our non-resource exports go to friendly countries. As of late 2024, our non-resource exports to these markets increased by eight percent in physical terms. Now, in 2025, we have entered the third stage. We would like to thank you once again for including our revised national project, International Cooperation and Exports, in the list of national projects that have been approved for the next strategic cycle. Now, to the performance results of the Russian Export Centre over this period. In the past four years, we have offered support measures to non-resource exports worth over five trillion rubles, or 5,250 trillion rubles to be precise, which means that one in nine rubles of non-resource exports went to foreign markets thanks to our support. We have created a set of tools for every stage of an exporter's lifecycle, from the initial idea to start exporting to the actual export deal and even post-sales support. I must commend Russian constituent entities for playing a very important role in achieving this very ambitious but attainable national goal. Regardless of their export potential, almost every region has a well-coordinated and highly professional regional team. Many governors are personally involved in promoting their regions' export assets. Eighty-three regions have dedicated infrastructure that includes export support centres to promote small and medium-sized exporters. Overall, I want to highlight that our SME exporters have proven to be highly adaptable to the challenges of recent times, ever since the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of SME exporters has almost doubled since 2020. As for our future plans, VEB approved its updated strategy last year, while the Russian Export Centre has set an objective to increase the value of non-resource exports to at least 12 trillion rubles by 2030. We know how to achieve this goal and we are ready. We are going to pursue two directions here. First, we will expand the geography of our exports. We will also broaden the range of products that we are ready to offer to our partners. Here I would like to focus on one of the highly effective tools that helps boost awareness of our products abroad, because ignorance of our capabilities is one of the challenges in new markets. I am referring to the Made in Russia programme. We are grateful to you for supporting this programme. If you recall, you visited our booth at the EXPO in Harbin last year. Our booth was part of our Made in Russia festival and fair. Chinese consumers have shown significant interest in Russian products following such events. Even foreign media have taken notice. Last week, both Bloomberg and CNN reported on our programme and its effects, saying that the demand for Russian products is booming in China. Since last year, we have held five festivals in various provinces of China and in the United Arab Emirates. This year, thanks to your support, the programme has become governmental. Currently, we are developing a plan of events jointly with the ministries of industry, agriculture, culture, sport, and economy. I would like to report separately on our partnership with the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI). Since this year, our Made in Russia programme has partnered with the See What a Success We Are competition. This competition involves emerging brands, and you have supported it. This year and in all subsequent years, winners of this competition, those with an export potential, will be able to use all our support measures designed to promote the Made in Russia programme. We would like to present you with this bird as a symbol of our partnership with ASI. This three-coloured bird is the mascot of our Made in Russia programme. We are building awareness of our products by featuring this bird on products, virtual e-shelves under the Made in Russia umbrella, pavilions, etc. It flies across many markets of friendly countries. This bird has been crafted by the Khokhloma artists from Nizhni Novgorod. It is an upgraded design version of the Khokhloma brand. The Governor [Gleb Nikitin] himself promotes their products in external markets. We believe that this bird, this gift, symbolises the strong Made in Russia national brand, which is the total of strong brands representing individual Russian companies that are steadily growing in number. Vladimir Putin: Thank you. <...> NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Navalny Ally Volkov Says Father's House Raided In Russia By FSB By Merhat Sharipzhan and RFE/RL's Russian Service April 03, 2025 Russian law enforcement officers raided the Yekaterinburg residence of Mikhail Volkov, the father of prominent opposition politician Leonid Volkov, a key ally of late Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny. Leonid Volkov said the April 3 search was conducted under the guise of an investigation into the alleged financing of an extremist organization, namely the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), an organization founded by Navalny that was classified as extremist by the Russian government in 2021. Authorities allege that 69-year-old Mikhail Volkov, a renowned mathematics professor, gave money to the FBK, known for its investigations into high-level corruption in what appears to be the latest escalation in the Russian government's crackdown on dissent. Leonid Volkov, who now lives in exile in an undisclosed European country, said officers from the FSB security service confiscated electronic devices from his father's home. The searches are "revenge for the work I have been doing, am doing, and do not intend to stop," he said. Hours later, Volkov said on Telegram that his father was detained for interrogation and released later but ordered not to leave the city as a criminal case was officially launched against him. The younger Volkov said earlier that his father, a distinguished mathematics professor, was dismissed from his position at the Ural Federal University in February 2025. No reason was given for the dismissal, which Leonid Volkov said was an attempt to pile pressure on his family. The April 3 raid and interrogation are the latest of several similar actions by Russian authorities on the families of opposition leaders who have fled the country. In 2021, the father of Ivan Zhdanov, another prominent associate of Navalny and a former director of the FBK, was convicted of corruption, charges which he denies and his supporters call politically motivated. Like Leonid Volkov, Zhdanov went into self-imposed exile to escape persecution from Russian authorities. The Anti-Corruption Foundation, founded in 2011 by Aleksei Navalny, has been at the forefront of investigating corruption within Russia's political elite. The organization's detailed reports have not only uncovered vast wealth amassed by high-ranking officials but also drawn significant attention and concern both domestically and internationally. The Russian government designation of the FBK as an extremist organization meant its activities were banned and anyone connected to it -- including journalists who covered his court hearings -- could face criminal charges. Human rights organizations have widely condemned this designation as an attempt to stifle one of the country's most vocal anti-corruption movements. Navalny died in February last year in a remote Russian prison while serving a 19-year prison term on charges many said were retribution for his pursuit of corruption around President Vladimir Putin. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/police-raid-leonid-volkov- father-russia-opposition-zhdanov-navalny/33372701.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Head Of Russian Wealth Fund In Washington For Talks With Trump's Middle East Envoy -- Reports By RFE/RL's Russian Service April 03, 2025 Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev has arrived in Washington to meet with US officials as part of President Donald Trump's push to press for a cease-fire in the war in Ukraine, US media reports said on April 2. Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), was to meet with US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff, according to the reports. Reuters quoted two US officials as saying that Witkoff invited Dmitriev to the United States last week. Dmitriev is the high-ranking Russian official to visit Washington on state business since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The White House has not confirmed the visit, but the officials quoted by Reuters said the White House directed the State Department to issue a short-term license for Dmitriev to enter to the country. The envoy would otherwise not have been allowed in because he is under US sanctions, the officials said. "Whatever your politics -- dialogue between the US and Russia matters. It's about building a more secure, more prosperous world for everyone," Dmitriev said on X in a post that included an image of a jetliner reaching the US East Coast. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed earlier reports by Reuters and CNN that Dmitriev's visit might occur this week. "Yes, I confirm. This visit may be possible. We are continuing to talk to the Americans. I will not give more concrete [details]," Peskov said. Dmitriev is to discuss strengthening relations between the United States and Russia during his talks with Witkoff, according to CNN. Trump, who recently expressed frustration with the pace of cease-fire talks and with Russian President Vladimir Putin, mentioned the war on April 2 at the end of a speech announcing sweeping tariffs against EU countries, Canada, Mexico, and other US trading partners. Trump again vowed to bring an end to the war and said he believes the United States is "being given good cooperation by Russia and by Ukraine" in the negotiation process. Dmitriev may be key in repairing relations between Moscow and Washington, which have sunk to the lowest level since the depths of the Cold War. The Russian envoy played a role in early contacts with the United States when Trump was elected president the first time in 2016. Dmitriev recently has mentioned a host of initiatives that Russia and the United States could work on together, including rare earth mineral mining, energy, the Arctic, and space. Prominent Russian opposition leader Vladimir Kara-Murza noted that Dmitriev is not a diplomat and said his arrival in Washington and apparent talks with Witkoff were "very illustrative" of the direction that the negotiations are taking. "Judging by the personalities of these two interlocutors they are not going to talk about people. They are not going to talk about peace. The are not going to talk about the future of Ukraine," Kara-Murza said on CNN on April 2. "They are going to talk about money. They are going to talk about profits. They are going to talk about rare earth minerals," he added. He said the RDIF - the Russian sovereign wealth fund - "is a shadowy government agency that is very unpublic" through which billions of dollars flow. He noted that recently a major investigation published by the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), the organization set up by Kremlin critic and opposition politician Aleksei Navalny, who died suspiciously just over a year ago in a Russian prison, alleged that Dmitriev is involved in extensive corruption. Kara-Murza also noted that comments made by Witkoff in a recent interview with former Fox News presenter Tucker Carlson on his social media-based program showed that the US envoy is not seeing Putin for who he really is. Witkoff said that Putin had been "enormously gracious" when he recently met him at the Kremlin, adding that he doesn't regard Putin as a "bad guy." The war and "all the ingredients that led up to it" make for a "complicated situation," Witkoff told Carlson. "It's never just one person, right?" Kara-Murza, who had been serving a 25-year prison sentence in Russia when he was released in a prisoner exchange in August, said Putin is hardly "someone whom we know nothing about" but a politician who has launched attacks on other countries, slammed political opponents in jail, or allegedly ordered them killed. "I think it's completely unacceptable to see senior officials of the United States administration acting as propagandists for the Kremlin and whitewashing all the crimes that Vladimir Putin has committed both against our own people in Russia, against the people of Ukraine, and against the people of so many other countries around the world," Kara-Murza said. He rebutted Witkoff's comment that conflict is "never about one person," saying that often in history it has been. "It was about Adolf Hitler. It was about Josef Stalin. Now it is about Vladimir Putin," he said. With reporting by Reuters and CNN Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/dmitriev-witkoff-russia- ukraine-war-negotiations-sovereign-wealth-fund/33370631.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Nigeriens Abroad of the Republic of the Niger Bakary Yaou Sangare 3 April 2025 18:49 540-03-04-2025 On April 3, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Nigeriens Abroad of the Republic of the Niger Bakary Yaou Sangare on the sidelines of Russia - Alliance of Sahel States consultations. During their substantive conversation on a wide range of issues of further strengthening Russia-Niger friendly relations, the ministers focused on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation in trade, the economy, humanitarian and other areas. The officials had a profound exchange of opinions on international and regional agendas with an emphasis on the current situation in the Sahara-Sahel region, including the importance of aligning Moscow's and Niamey's efforts in fighting terrorism and ensuring security in the region. The parties agreed to maintain close coordination of their actions at the UN and on other international venues. Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's commitment to continue assistance needed by Niger in countering the terrorism threat, maintaining domestic stability and security and in solving socioeconomic issues. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks at a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation and Burkinabe Abroad of Burkina Faso Karamoko Jean-Marie Traore, Moscow, April 3, 2025 3 April 2025 17:59 535-03-04-2025 Mr Minister, Dear Friend, Colleagues, We are pleased to have the opportunity to hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the first ever Alliance of Sahel States-Russia meeting. Over the past years, our interaction has taken on a potent new dimension. President of Burkina Faso Ibrahim Traore and President of Russia Vladimir Putin maintain regular contacts. In 2024, our delegation headed by Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak visited Burkina Faso. I met with Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo in Moscow. I have warm memories of my visit to Ouagadougou in June 2024, when I was welcomed by President Ibrahim Traore. I held in-depth talks with you as well. We appreciate President Ibrahim Traore accepting President Putin's invitation to attend the events commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. During the four-party meeting, we discussed in detail prospects for cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Alliance of Sahel States in strengthening your defence and security capabilities, as well as the economy, and in terms of coordinating our actions at the UN and other multilateral venues. We look forward to discussing bilateral agenda with you in more detail today. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Mali Abdoulaye Diop 3 April 2025 17:53 534-03-04-2025 On April 3, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Mali Abdoulaye Diop on the sidelines of the Russia - Alliance of Sahel States consultations. During their conversation, the ministers discussed a wide range of issues related to strengthening the traditionally friendly bilateral relations and reaffirmed their shared intention to step up mutually beneficial cooperation in trade, the economy, culture and other areas. The exchange of views on international and regional matters revealed that Moscow and Bamako have common positions on key global issues, including the need to shape a more just polycentric world order based on the rule of international law and the provisions of the UN Charter, and to reject external dictates and neocolonial practices. Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's readiness to further provide comprehensive support to Mail to counter terrorism and achieve sustainable socio-economic development. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answer to a media question following a meeting of the foreign ministers of Russia and the Alliance of Sahel States, Moscow, April 3, 2025 3 April 2025 17:05 533-03-04-2025 Good afternoon, respected members of the media. We have held the first meeting in the new Russia-Alliance of Sahel States format with our friends from Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. I would like to once again welcome our friends from this young but dynamically developing association, which was established less than a year ago, to Moscow. We regard the establishment of the Alliance as proof of the three Sahel states' commitment to building a new regional security architecture and conducting an independent foreign policy with reliance on their national interests and potential. The Alliance of Sahel States is a bright evidence of Africa's second revival and the Africans' striving to play an active and independent role in global affairs and to shake off the remains of their colonial dependence. I would like to point out that we will continue to provide all-round support to the strengthening of the continent's positions and will promote a more just multipolar world order where the African continent and its integration structures hold a befitting place. It is gratifying to feel the general mood for strengthening our partnership based on mutual trust, respect and mutual advantage. I emphasised Russia's readiness to provide all-round assistance to the Alliance in the three priority areas of its operation, namely, defence and security, the economy, and diplomacy in the sense of participation in international processes. The Sahel-Sahara Region has come against manifestations of terrorism. We have pointed out that its roots largely go back into its colonial past. For example, we know from history that the parent states marked borders in Africa without any regard for the people who live on these territories, actually cutting through peoples and ethnic groups and forcing them to live in different states. This legacy continues to exert its negative influence to this day. Some non-regional players have not abandoned their attempts to destabilise the region. The group of former colonial powers has recently been joined by the Kiev regime, which is openly supporting terrorist groups in that part of Africa with the connivance of its Western sponsors. For our part, I have emphasised Moscow's readiness to provide all-round assistance to strengthening the potential of the united armed forces of the Alliance of Sahel States, enhancing the combat ability of each of the three countries' national armed forces, and training military and law enforcement personnel for them. We continue to render comprehensive assistance to countries forming the Alliance of Sahel States in other areas as well. We regularly supply farm products, fertilisers, energy and other critically important products. We are well aware of the importance of these supplies, at this stage, primarily food, for the socioeconomic development of African states. The volume of mutual trade has increased more than ten-fold within a year. But there is no reason to rest on our oars. The absolute figures are quite modest and incommensurate with the existing potential. We had a detailed discussion on this point earlier today. To strengthen the material foundation of our cooperation, we have agreed to take additional specific steps (they are being drafted) to implement joint promising economic projects both within the framework of Russia's bilateral relations with each of the three countries and in the context of the four-party format, given the emergence of interesting and effective integration mechanisms within the Alliance. We have considered from concurrent positions some present-day regional and global issues. We are united by our commitment to the fundamental principles of international law, such as sovereign equality of states, non-interference in internal affairs, and respect for the right of peoples to determine their own destiny and models of political and socioeconomic development. And we are certainly united by respect for yet another crucial principle of the UN Charter, which concerns observance of human rights regardless of race, gender, language or religion. We categorically opposed the attempts to politicise human rights issues, which is something our Western colleagues constantly engage in at the UN agencies. They tend to politicise things when all they need to do is push for ensuring the specific people's rights that are violated everywhere, including, more recently, in Europe. On a separate note, we touched upon Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger exiting from the Economic Community of West African States and discussed the principles underlying the two associations' coexistence. Russia is prepared to assist in establishing an equal and constructive dialogue to this end. We will be happy to provide our services whenever they may be needed. We agree that the Russia-Alliance of Sahel States dialogue will give an extra boost to advancing bilateral relations and creating quadripartite cooperation mechanisms. All of the above will help promote comprehensive cooperation and interaction within the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum at the level of foreign ministers. Preparations for holding its second meeting are underway. On a final note, I would like to say that, as my friend Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Mali Abdoulaye Diop informed me, this is the first time the flag of the Alliance of Sahel States has been displayed outside the region. If you look at it you will see that is has an image of a baobab tree on it. In West African tradition, baobab is the tree of reconciliation. This symbol reflects the aspirations of our peoples; there is no doubt about it. I would like to wish the peoples and, more generally, your countries, peaceful life, well-being, prosperity, and every success for the Alliance. It has earned credibility and a positive reputation. Other countries are interested in participating in the Alliance of Sahel States. I think that its role in promoting nationally oriented programmes in Africa will continue to grow stronger. Russia will be pleased to assist these efforts. We have adopted a communique following this meeting. It will be circulated. It lays out our agreement to make these quadripartite meetings regular and to meet annually in Russia and in a country of the Alliance of Sahel States on a rotational basis. Question (retranslated from French): What decisions were taken following today's meeting in order to strengthen the new Russia-Alliance of Sahel States partnership, including in diplomacy, defence and development? Sergey Lavrov: We have approved the communique, and it will be circulated shortly. It focuses on defence and security matters in the context of ensuring independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the three countries that have formed the Alliance of Sahel States. The Joint Forces of the Alliance are in the process of being created. Russia confirmed today that it is prepared to, in addition to cooperation on strengthening the defence capabilities of the three countries through bilateral channels, assist in formation of the Joint Forces of the Alliance of Sahel States by providing advisory services. We have such experience with our neighbours, primarily, the Republic of Belarus, and the CSTO member states. I'm convinced that this experience can be used to form the United Armed Forces of the Alliance of Sahel States. We will transfer this experience by setting up special courses led by our instructors, who are already working in large numbers in the countries represented here. Military product supplies are another indispensable step if you want to create the tripartite armed forces. Our specialists can help develop a plan for equipping these armed forces with specific types of weapons and equipment. We have quite specific agreements to build on what has been and is being done bilaterally. Now, the quadripartite format will further strengthen our ties in the military-technical sphere. With regard to diplomacy, today we confirmed our overlapping positions on all fundamental international matters. We are coordinating our steps at the UN. The friendly countries represented here are supportive of all our initiatives and co-sponsored many of them as part of the UN General Assembly. We reciprocate and support the just aspirations of the leadership of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. They seek respect for the national interests of their countries and respect for their independence and autonomy. We support this in more ways than just morally and politically. When attempts are made at the UN Security Council to push through decisions that are at odds with the Alliance of Sahel States' interests, the Russian Federation does not let these decisions go through. I can talk at length about specific areas of our cooperation at the UN. We certainly share our approaches when it comes to elections to various bodies. The United Nations does not always support candidates put forward by one of our countries. Read more about this in the communique that we agreed upon today and which reflects our commitment to continuing to work in this format. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks at a meeting of the foreign ministers of Russia and the Alliance of Sahel States, Moscow, April 3, 2025 3 April 2025 13:54 528-03-04-2025 Friends, I am delighted to welcome you and your delegations to the capital of Russia. We are grateful to you for accepting our invitation to this meeting. Russia and your countries maintain intensive contacts. The last time we had an opportunity to hold in-depth discussions with each of you was during the First Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum held in Sochi in November 2024. Today's meeting is especially important. It is the first time that it is being held in the quadripartite format between Russia and three countries of the Alliance of Sahel States. The establishment of your Alliance is evidence of your countries' commitment to pursuing independent policies and building a new regional security architecture with reliance on your own forces, while remaining open to cooperation with the countries that are focused on equal interaction based on mutual respect and mutual advantage. We are delighted to see the dynamic development of integration processes within the Alliance. This offers additional opportunities for strengthening our interaction in trade, the economy, investment, transport and logistics, as well as cooperation between our banks. We have reached the first results in cooperation in several areas with each of your countries. According to conservative estimates, they are positive, but this is only the beginning. We must continue working to take our relations to a fundamentally new level, just like we did with coordinating our efforts on the international stage to ensure security and train civilian and military personnel for the humanitarian sphere. There is no doubt that this meeting will help strengthen the entire range of our mutual relations. We are also ready to discuss promising areas for promoting not only bilateral relations but also our ties with the Alliance of Sahel States as an organisation, and to exchange views on promoting our interaction at the subregional level with due regard for the realities of your trilateral cooperation. We believe that these efforts should be focused on maintaining and strengthening political sovereignty, security and economic development interests of your Alliance. Active work in this new format will undoubtedly add momentum to bilateral cooperation and make a substantial contribution to the further development of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum at the level of foreign ministers, which was established by decision of the second Russia-Africa Summit, which took place in St Petersburg in 2023. The first ministerial meeting of the Forum, which was established by decision of our heads of state, was held in November 2024. We have agreed that the second meeting between the foreign ministers of the African Union countries and Russia will be held in Africa in 2025. I hope that the African Union will come up with proposals on the date and site of this meeting soon. It will be a major stage in preparations for the third Russia-Africa Summit scheduled for 2026. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks at a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Mali Abdoulaye Diop, Moscow, April 3, 2025 3 April 2025 13:38 527-03-04-2025 Mr Minister, Colleagues, friends, We are delighted to welcome you to Moscow for a meeting between the foreign ministers of the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States and the Russian Federation. We maintain regular ties. The presidents of our countries met in 2023 on the sidelines of the Russia-Africa Summit, and spoke over the phone in 2024. We have met at least twice a year, most recently in November 2024 at the inaugural Russia-Africa Forum conference in Sochi. Members of our governments and deputy prime ministers responsible for energy and economic matters also meet regularly. Collaboration in defence is expanding, with our military actively working alongside their Malian colleagues. We train personnel for the Malian Armed Forces, as well as civilian specialists. This is an important humanitarian dimension of our work. Our closest coordination is in foreign policy, particularly within the United Nations, the Group of Friends in Defence of the UN Charter and other international platforms, including various Russia-Africa partnership formats. We have a packed agenda and I am confident that today's discussions will help advance the agreements that will be reached by our leaders more actively and effectively. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Envoy Says Meeting In Washington Showed 'Positive Dynamic' In Restoring Relations By RFE/RL's Russian Service and RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service April 04, 2025 Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev said on April 3 that he saw a "positive dynamic" in relations between Moscow and Washington, but differences remain, and several more meetings are needed to resolve them. "I think [with] the Trump administration, we are now in [a] realm of thinking about what is possible, what can really work, and how we can find a long-term solution," Dmitriev told CNN following talks with members of President Donald Trump's administration in Washington. "Without doubt, we note a positive dynamic in our relations," Russian news agencies quoted Dmitriev as telling journalists in Washington earlier on April 3 after the meeting. "Of course, there are disagreements on various points, but there is a process, there is a dialogue, which in our understanding will help to overcome these disagreements," Dmitriev told journalists. "A series of meetings will still be needed for us to resolve all our differences. But the main thing we see a positive, creative attitude," he was quoted as saying. Dmitriev said on Telegram that restoring dialogue "is a difficult and gradual process. But each meeting, each frank conversation allows us to move forward." He did not name the Trump administration officials he met with, but said they conducted themselves "with great respect, ask a lot of questions, find compromises." Dmitriev said he "invited colleagues from the United States to visit Russia." Dmitriev said among the topics discussed were cooperation on rare metals production and the Arctic. He also said work was under way on restoring direct flights between Russia and the United States, and told US broadcaster Newsmax that Russia would like to work with Elon Musk, head of SpaceX and a close adviser to Trump, on a Mars mission. Efforts by Trump to restore Russia-U.S. ties have stirred fears in Ukraine and Europe that Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin could cut a deal to end the war in Ukraine without their participation. Dmitriev claimed after meeting with the Trump administration officials that unidentified forces were trying to sow tension between Russia and the United States and distort Russia's position. "Opponents of the rapprochement are afraid that Russia and the United States will find common ground, begin to understand each other better, and build cooperation both in international affairs and in the economy," he said. Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, arrived on April 2 and met with presidential envoy Steve Witkoff at the White House, US media reported. Witkoff, a former investment banker who has taken the lead on the administration's contacts with the Kremlin, invited Dmitriev to the United States last week, US officials quoted by Reuters said. Trump confirmed on April 3 that a Russian envoy was in the United States for talks, but the White House has not released a statement on the visit. Dmitriev is the most senior Russian official to visit Washington since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. He was recently appointed Putin's special envoy on economic cooperation with foreign countries. The visit comes after Trump expressed frustration with the pace of cease-fire talks. Putin last month rejected a US-Ukrainian cease-fire proposal and has demanded the lifting of some sanctions a condition of a US-proposed truce in the Black Sea. Dmitriev may be key in repairing relations between Moscow and Washington, which have sunk to the lowest level since the depths of the Cold War. The Russian envoy played a role in early contacts with the United States when Trump was elected president the first time in 2016. With reporting by Reuters and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/dmitriev-russia-witkoff-trump- ukraine-war/33373183.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address by Austin Bay April 3, 2025 In mid-February, a firm representing a Democratic Republic of the Congo legislator contacted several U.S. officials. The recipients included Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The letter sketched a sub-Saharan version of President Donald Trump's Ukraine minerals peace initiative. Would the U.S. be interested in acquiring or investing in Congo's enormous and globally unique trove of critical and rare mineral resources? The DRC has gold, copper, cobalt, tin, tantalum (coltan), lithium, gold and diamonds. The uranium for America's World War II atom bombs came from the then-Belgian Congo. Mobile phone and computer manufacturers need coltan (columbite-tantalite). Cobalt is a 21st-century treasure. Congo is the world's largest producer of cobalt ore, a must-have for electric vehicles. Beijing coveted the DRC's mineral trove -- a global position of immense economic import. In 2006 and 2007, Chinese front companies began buying DRC cobalt, copper and rare earth mineral operations. In 2008 and 2009, China signed the so-called China Deal of 2008 the DRC's Kabila dictatorship. The overall deal was supposedly worth billions. China was supposed to build roads and other infrastructure. It built ... next to nothing. In 2021, Congo condemned China and began legal proceedings to end Beijing's fraud. Back to 2025. The DRC offers the U.S. access and co-ownership of its mineral wealth. In exchange, the U.S. must use its unique global economic, political and military power to secure "regional stability." And there's the rub. Regional stability is what at best passes for peace in one of the most war-torn, strife-ridden and disease-plagued regions of the planet. The next paragraphs illustrate my war, strife and plague points. Since 2000, the United Nations deployed an armed peacekeeping force in the DRC. At the moment, the peacekeepers are named MONUSCO. The force has around 10,000 soldiers who are supposed to be protecting civilians and consolidating peace. However, there is little peace to consolidate in eastern Congo's North and South Kivu provinces. In 2018 and 2020, the Ebola virus savaged both Kivus. Violence kills more than the virus ever did. In 2024, the DRC government called for MONUSCO to leave the country because civilians in eastern Congo claimed the U.N. force was failing to protect them from murderous militias. The most effective militia is M23 - the March 23 Movement. Last time I looked, M23 had taken control of North Kivu's capital, Goma. The DRC government calls M23 as a terrorist organization controlled by Rwanda in order to exploit Congolese mineral resources. Rwanda, currently led by a government dominated by the Tutsi tribe, says M23 is a Congolese Tutsi militia defending Tutsi rights. The most insane eastern Congo militia is the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). It began as a Ugandan Islamist terror group and has morphed into an Islamic State affiliate. Its calling card is murder by machete -- or hand grenade. In mid-March, Al Jazeera (which gets credit for following the DRC's chaos) summarized the Congo's strategy. DRC leaders hope Washington "will deploy troops to help contain the conflict in exchange for rights to the minerals ... however, say it is unclear whether such an alliance would align with US President Donald Trump's 'America First' policy, and that Washington would be more likely to take a less hands-on approach ..." In mid-March, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi met with Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Texas). They discussed the Congo's fractured security situation and potential U.S. investment. Jackson was recognized as a Trump special envoy. Jackson later told media: "We want to work so that American companies can come and invest and work in the DRC. And to do that, we have to make sure that there is a peaceful environment." A noncommittal statement of interest? I think so. The U.S. has no interest in boots on the ground in Central Africa's chaos. The U.S. does have an immense interest in denying China access to Congo's mineral trove -- and the minerals possessed by neighboring Zambia and Angola. Major fact: Congo wants to make a deal with the U.S. in order to escape China's corrupt grasp. Another fact: U.N. officials insist that the current force will withdraw from Congo "as quickly as possible." Looks like Trump's Ukraine notion that mineral deals for dependable dollars and implied U.S. protection may have traction in several of the world's hardest corners. In Congo's case, it would deal Communist China a strategic defeat. Iran condemns Israeli regime's attack on Syrian defense and civilian infrastructures IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Apr 3, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- The spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned the Israeli regime's air and ground attacks on the Syrian defense, civilian, and research infrastructure in the provinces of Damascus, Homs, Hama, and Daraa. Esmaeil Baqaei said on Thursday that the Islamic Republic, as in the past, emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of Syria as a historic nation in the West Asia region. Referring to the repeated violation of the Syrian soil and targeting the most valuable defense assets and military and civilian infrastructures, and occupation of some certain strategic areas of Syria by the Israeli regime, Baqaei said that all involved parties share responsibility for Israel's aggressions. He also said that during consultations with the regional countries, Iran had warned months earlier about the expansion of Israeli occupation and its warmongering actions against Syria and other regional countries. Baqaei also urged international community, especially countries of the region and Organization of Islamic Cooperation, to take immediate and effective measures to halt Israel's violations and to put an end to the regime's impunity and hold it accountable for its blatant breaches of the law, continuous attack on reginal countries, and the ongoing genocide in Gaza. 9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli warplanes carry out more airstrikes near Damascus Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 10:16 PM Israeli warplanes have carried out more airstrikes on Syria, defying a UN warning about the civilian casualties from continuous regime aggressions against the Arab country. On Thursday, Israeli aircraft carried out at least two strikes on military targets near Damascus, reportedly hitting sites in the Al-Kiswah and Al-Muqaylibah neighborhoods. There were no immediate reports of casualties. The attacks came less than a day after similar Israeli strikes and a ground incursion killed 13 people. Nine civilians were killed and several others wounded in an Israeli airstrike that targeted Syria's southwestern Dara'a province late on Wednesday. The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) said the strike hit the Jubailiyah Forest area between the cities of Nawa and Tasil. It also reported heightened public anger and widespread mobilization in response to the "massacre" as Israeli forces penetrated more profoundly than ever before into Syrian territory. An angry crowd gathered Thursday for the funeral of those killed in Daraa. "This is an agricultural area... where no one threatens Israeli forces. We want to live in peace, but we do not accept attacks," said one, 48-year-old Khaled al-Awdat. Israel has been extensively targeting Syrian military assets and conducting ground incursions into southern Syria since the HTS-led regime took power last December. UN envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen on Thursday condemned the regime's escalating military actions, warning that they undermine efforts to rebuild Syria and further destabilize the country at a critical time. "Such actions undermine efforts to build a new Syria at peace with itself and the region, and destabilize Syria at a sensitive time," he said in a statement. Since the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad's government, the Israeli military has been launching airstrikes against military installations, facilities, and arsenals belonging to Syria's now-defunct army. Israel has been widely condemned for the termination of the 1974 ceasefire agreement with Syria and for exploiting the chaos in the Arab nation in the wake of Assad's downfall to make a land grab. The United Nations has condemned ongoing Israeli attacks inside Syrian territory and continuing violations in and around the buffer zone created as part of a 1974 ceasefire agreement with Damascus. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran condemns Israeli attacks on Syria's civilian, military infrastructure Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 5:05 PM Iran has strongly condemned the latest string of Israeli aerial and ground attacks on civilian, scientific and research facilities besides a number of military sites across Syria, stressing the need to protect the Arab nation's territorial integrity. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, in a statement released on Thursday, vehemently denounced the Israeli assaults in the Syrian capital Damascus, the central provinces of Hama and Homs, and the southwestern province of Dara'a. He said the Zionist regime's recurrent acts of aggression, strikes on Syria's most valuable defense assets and civilian installations, alongside the occupation of strategic areas of the Arab country since the fall of the former government of Bashar al-Assad devolve responsibility to all concerned parties in order to prevent Israel's abuses and atrocities. The senior Iranian diplomat said the Islamic Republic, in the course of consultations with regional countries over the past few months, had been warning against the Zionist regime's abuse of the status quo in Syria, the expansion of Israeli occupation, and its belligerence against Syria and other regional countries. "As before, the Islamic Republic of Iran stresses the need to maintain and protect the territorial integrity, dignity and national sovereignty of Syria as a deep-rooted and dignity-seeking nation in the important region of West Asia," Baghaei said. The Iranian spokesman finally urged the international community, particularly regional states and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), to take immediate and effective measures to stop Israel's acts of aggression, end the regime's impunity, and hold it accountable for egregious breaches of the law, constant acts of aggression against regional countries and ongoing genocidal crimes in the occupied Palestinian territories. Nine civilians were killed and several others wounded in an Israeli airstrike that targeted Syria's southwestern Dara'a province late on Wednesday. The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) said the strike hit the Jubailiyah Forest area between the cities of Nawa and Tasil. It also reported heightened public anger and widespread mobilization in response to the "massacre," as Israeli forces penetrated deeper than ever before into Syrian territory. Earlier on Wednesday, Israeli military aircraft targeted the vicinity of the scientific research center in the Barzeh neighborhood of Syria's capital Damascus, as well as the airport in the central city of Hama. Since the collapse of Assad's government, the Israeli military has been launching airstrikes against military installations, facilities, and arsenals belonging to Syria's now-defunct army. Israel has been widely condemned for the termination of the 1974 ceasefire agreement with Syria and for exploiting the chaos in the Arab nation in the wake of Assad's downfall to make a land grab. The United Nations has condemned ongoing Israeli attacks inside Syrian territory and continuing violations in and around the buffer zone created as part of a 1974 ceasefire agreement with Damascus. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel confirms killing Syria's HTS-led militants, warns Jolani of 'heavy price' if interests threatened Iran Press TV Thursday, 03 April 2025 8:45 AM Israeli warplanes have carried out attacks across Syria, killing at least 10 in Dara'a and seven in Hama, marking the first deadly attack on forces led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The Israeli military said it killed several "fighters" in southern Dara'a governorate, near the town of Tasil, during a raid overnight to confiscate "combat equipment and destroy terror infrastructure". The military said it would not tolerate the "presence of combat equipment in southern Syria." According to local media, Israeli warplanes launched multiple strikes early Thursday on the capital Damascus, the central province of Hama, and the south-west province of Dara'a, as part of a wider Israeli practice aimed at undermining military assets and research facilities amid escalating regional tensions. The latest wave of attacks began with a series of heavy airstrikes targeting Hama Military Airport, resulting in around 18 recorded hits. Syrian reports said the attacks killed seven individuals, including "four officials from the HTS-led administration's Ministry of Defense", while 12 others were reported injured. The airstrikes reportedly caused extensive damage to military aircraft and infrastructure, rendering the airport completely out of service. The HTS-led regime's Foreign Ministry condemned the Israeli strikes as a "blatant violation of international law," calling on the global community to pressure Israel to adhere to international norms. It stated on Telegram that the strikes are an attempt to normalize violence against Syria and destabilize the country. In the capital, Damascus, Israeli fighter jets targeted the Centre for Scientific Research in the Barza area, creating a plume of smoke that could be seen rising from the site. The Israeli forces in a statement confirmed the attacks, describing them as necessary actions targeting "military capabilities" at Syrian bases in Hama and Tiyas Air Base (T-4) military airport in Homs, as well as military infrastructure in Damascus. Israeli media indicated that the strikes on the T4 base served as a "message to Turkey," which is reportedly seeking to establish a presence there and was preparing to deploy air defense systems to the site. Israel views a Turkish military presence as a direct threat to its operational freedom over Syria. A senior Israeli military official warned last week that a Turkish air base in Palmyra "could heighten regional tensions and increase the risk of conflict with Israel." Meanwhile, the western Dara'a countryside witnessed a dangerous military escalation following an incursion by Israeli occupation forces into the Tasil Forest and the outskirts of Nawa city. Local sources reported that Israeli artillery, drones and helicopters targeted several sites surrounding Nawa city, Tal al-Jumu', and the al-Jubailiya Forest, killing at least 10 individuals, with many more injured, amid an unprecedented state of public alert. The ongoing rescue operations are expected to increase the death toll in Dara'a, overwhelming medical facilities with critically wounded individuals. 'Heavy price' Israeli war minister Israel Katz on Thursday warned Syria's self-proclaimed president Abu Mohammad al-Jolani that he would face severe consequences if "Israel's security" was threatened. "I warn Syrian leader Jolani: If you allow hostile forces to enter Syria and threaten Israeli security interests, you will pay a heavy price," Katz said in a statement. Recent days have seen a surge in Israeli military activity in western Dara'a, including an attempted attack on the town of Koya in the Yarmouk Basin, which resulted in six deaths and the arrest of several civilians, including farmers. Israeli officials have justified the airstrikes as necessary actions to eliminate perceived threats to Israelis, claiming that the operations are aimed at military capabilities located in Syria. Although the new Syrian administration under Syria's de-facto leader, Abu Mohammad al-Julani, seems to pose no direct threat to Israel, Tel Aviv has maintained a pattern of nearly daily airstrikes for months, leading to civilian casualties and damage to military sites, vehicles, and ammunition. The recent escalation is part of a continued series of incursions following Bashar al-Assad government's collapse, with multiple violations reported across various villages in Dara'a and Quneitra, both situated in south-wears Syria. The Israeli military's campaign unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing regional conflicts, including renewed hostilities in Gaza and recent strikes in Lebanon. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Saudi Arabia Condemns Israeli Strikes on Five Locations in Syria Saudi Press Agency Riyadh, April 03, 2025, SPA -- Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned the recent Israeli strikes targeting five locations in Syria, which resulted in numerous civilian and military casualties. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, the Kingdom reiterated its firm rejection of the Israeli occupation authorities' actions, which threaten the security and stability of Syria and the wider region through clear violations of international law. The Kingdom emphasized the need for the international community, particularly the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, to fulfill their responsibilities by taking a firm stand against these ongoing Israeli violations. Saudi Arabia also called for the implementation of international accountability mechanisms. --SPA 20:56 Local Time 17:56 GMT 0026 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement on Australia's response to recent PLA exercises around Taiwan Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade 3 April 2025 Category: International relations China's military and coast guard exercises around Taiwan during 1-2 April were deeply concerning. Australia strongly opposes actions that increase the risk of accident, miscalculation and escalation. As we have said on previous occasions, these military exercises were disproportionate and destabilising. Differences should be resolved through dialogue, not with the threat or use of force or coercion. Australia does not want to see any unilateral change to the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. Peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is in all our interests. Australian officials have raised concerns with Chinese officials. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Japan, U.K., Canada express concerns over PLA drills around Taiwan ROC Central News Agency 04/03/2025 01:24 PM Taipei, April 3 (CNA) Japan, the United Kingdom and Canada have joined the United States and European Union in expressing concerns over China's recent two-day military drills around Taiwan that ended late Wednesday. Asked to comment on the latest People's Liberation Army (PLA) military exercises in the waters and airspace around Taiwan, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said Tokyo had conveyed its concern to Beijing about the military drills. "We are watching it [the drill] with serious interest," Hayashi said at a press conference in Tokyo on Wednesday as the drills entered the second day. "Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are extremely important to the entire international community, including our country." He said Tokyo would "take all possible measures for vigilance and surveillance activities," in light of China's increased military activity near Taiwan in recent years. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) also expressed the British government's concern over China's latest round of military exercises. The exercises are "part of a pattern of activity which is increasing tensions and risking dangerous escalation in the Taiwan Strait," the unnamed spokesperson was quoted as saying in a statement issued Wednesday by the FCDO. The U.K. has a "clear interest in peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, which is of critical importance to global prosperity and our support for a free and open Indo-Pacific," the spokesperson said. According to the statement, the U.K. thinks the Taiwan issue should be settled peacefully by the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, through constructive dialogue, without the threat or use of force or coercion. "Military drills or threats to Taiwan are not conducive to such dialogue," FCDO said. "We do not support any unilateral attempts to change the status quo." Any actions that could undermine peace should be avoided, it added. In similar vein, Canada's Global Affairs department called for a peaceful resolution of cross-strait differences and condemned China's recent drills. "These threatening actions are increasing tensions and destabilizing the region, impacting global security and prosperity," the government department said in a Facebook post. "Canada calls on China to resolve cross-Strait differences by peaceful means." The statements by the U.K., Canada and Japan followed similar expressions of concern by the U.S. and EU on Tuesday, when the PLA's Eastern Theater Command started its latest exercises in waters around Taiwan. The two-day exercises served as "a stern warning" to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, China's Taiwan Affairs Office said in a statement. (By Joseph Yeh) Enditem/pc NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 82 Chinese warplanes, ships deployed near Taiwan during drills Wednesday: MND ROC Central News Agency 04/03/2025 01:26 PM Taipei, April 3 (CNA) China dispatched 82 warplanes and vessels to areas near Taiwan on Wednesday, the last day of its most recent military exercises in the region, according to Taiwan's defense ministry. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) sent 59 planes into Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ), 18 of which crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, while 13 others crossed its extension, a flight map released by Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) showed. The incursions began at 6:10 a.m. Wednesday and continued until 8:10 p.m., according to the MND information. Wednesday's drills, codenamed Strait Thunder 2025-A, were a continuation of China's latest round of military exercise that started the previous day, which the PLA Eastern Theater Command said were meant as "a stern warning" to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces. During Wednesday's drills, 23 Chinese warships and eight official ships were also detected in waters around Taiwan, according to the MND. On Tuesday afternoon, China's Maritime Safety Administration announced the closure of a shipping zone near Zhejiang Province, citing "military activity." At a press conference Wednesday, the MND confirmed that the PLA had been carrying out live-fire drills in the East China Sea that morning. The latest round of Chinese military exercises in the area began Tuesday and ended Wednesday night. (By Sean Lin) Enditem/pc NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Scholars note China coast guard's deeper involvement in Taiwan drills ROC Central News Agency 04/03/2025 03:14 PM Taipei, April 3 (CNA) China's coast guard has played a more important role during the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) latest round of military exercises surrounding Taiwan this year as Beijing is leveling up its "gray-zone" tactics against the country, scholars have told CNA. In response to growing Chinese gray-zone activities -- provocative or aggressive actions that fall short of an open conflict -- experts who spoke to CNA called on Taiwan to boost its capabilities in countering such nontraditional security threats. The PLA's Eastern Theater Command announced the beginning of joint exercises around Taiwan, as "a stern warning" to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces early on Tuesday. On Wednesday morning, the command, which has jurisdiction over the East China Sea and Taiwan Strait, further announced that it was conducting a "Strait Thunder-2025A" drill in parts of the Taiwan Strait before announcing the conclusion of two-day joint combat exercises on Wednesday evening hours later. Asked to comment on the significance of the latest round of Chinese drills, Taipei-based think tank Institute for National Policy Research senior consultant Chen Wen-chia () told CNA that the PLA had deployed its army, navy, air force and rocket force to conduct a round of joint combat exercises to test their collaborative and collective combat capabilities targeting Taiwan. During the two-day drill, PLA troops also rehearsed precision shootings targeting Taiwan's key infrastructure and a blockade of Taiwanese ports, Chen said. These activities demonstrated that the Chinese forces' combat preparations against Taiwan are increasingly sophisticated, Chen added. What is worth noting is that China's coast guard has played a bigger role in this round of PLA military exercises and practiced conducting law enforcement inspections at the Taiwan Strait, Chen said. Su Tzu-yun (), a division director at the Taiwan military-funded think tank Institute for National Defense and Security Research, said compared with the PLA's "Joint Sword" military exercises in 2024, China's coast guard simulated inspecting, repelling and intercepting civilian ships in the Taiwan Strait during the most recent drills. This shows that China's military is considering employing nonmilitary operations to cut off Taiwan's maritime transportation and supply lines to force Taiwan to surrender should a cross-strait war break out, Su said. Chieh Chung (), a research fellow at the Association of Strategic Foresight, a Taipei-based think tank, also said the relatively larger number of Chinese coast guard vessels joining the just concluded exercises was part of Beijing's legal warfare targeting Taiwan to prove to the world that it has jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait. Chen urged the Taiwan government to continue enhancing its self-defense and its ability to counter gray-zone warfare, in particular, as China's coast guard is becoming more involved in military exercises. Su, meanwhile, said that Taiwan's Navy is currently countering Chinese gray-zone harassment with its main combat warships such as destroyers and frigates. He suggested Taiwan's military build ships similar to the Royal Navy's River-class patrol vessels to monitor Chinese vessels to ensure its main combat warships are preserved for wartime. Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration (CGA) said Wednesday that it detected nine Chinese coast guard vessels operating near the nation's contiguous zone, an area that is adjacent to territorial sea and airspace and extends a maximum distance of 24 nautical miles from the coast, during the two-day PLA exercises starting Tuesday. The CGA said it sent 12 patrol vessels to monitor the nine Chinese coast guard vessels. All freighters and cargo vessels near Taiwan were operating normally despite the presence of Chinese coast guard vessels, it added. (By Wu Shu-wei, Lee Ya-wen and Joseph Yeh) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA propaganda aimed at Chinese people, little impact in Taiwan: Experts ROC Central News Agency 04/03/2025 07:31 PM Taipei, April 3 (CNA) The People's Liberation Army's (PLA) large-scale joint exercises around Taiwan on Tuesday were accompanied by strident propaganda comparing itself to a mighty monkey warrior in Chinese mythology and Taiwan's president to a parasite, but experts say these messages were primarily meant for domestic audiences and lost on the people in Taiwan. The PLA Eastern Theater Command on April 1, when it announced the start of the exercises, released two videos on the Chinese Sina Weibo microblogging website. In one of the videos, the PLA compared its air and naval forces to the mighty Monkey King from the Chinese literary classic "Journey to the West" (). The video also included graphics from the hit Chinese video game "Black Myth: Wukong," which was inspired by the novel, juxtaposed with aggressive footage of PLA forces targeting Taiwan's iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper and footage of what appeared to be the Wan Chun Fleet -- a fleet of CM-32 armored vehicles designated to protect Taiwan's president during major crises or emergencies -- cruising on Taipei's Hankou Street. Another video shows a cartoon of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te () depicted as a parasite held by its captor against the backdrop of a burning Taiwan ravaged by PLA forces. The videos were likely meant to "appease" the Chinese people after recent events, including the deportation of Chinese national Liu Zhenya () a vlogger who often advocated the "military takeover" of Taiwan by China, Lin Ying-yu (), an assistant professor at Tamkang University Graduate Institute of International Affairs and Strategic Studies, told CNA. China also wants to placate public discontent about sweeping policies that Lai laid out to resist Chinese attempts to eliminate Taiwan's sovereignty and divide public opinion on the matter, Liu said. Lai in March announced 17 measures resisting China's attempts to bring Taiwan into its fold, including strengthening defense capabilities and economic security, and creating "action plans" to collaborate with Taiwan's friends and diplomatic allies in demonstrating Taiwan's firm rejection of China's attempts to eliminate Taiwan's sovereignty. Su Tzu-yun (), a research fellow at Taiwan's government-funded Institute for National Defense and Security Research, agreed that the videos were primarily "internal propaganda" to galvanize the "little pinks," a nickname for ethnocentric, unification-minded Chinese youths, amid recent reports of arrests of high-ranking PLA officials. These include Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission He Weidong () and PLA Eastern Theater Command Commander Lin Xiangyang (), both of whom are perceived as loyalists of Chinese leader Xi Jinping (). On top of that, Su said, China's uncertain economic outlook amid a heated trade war with the United States, as evidenced by a recent meeting between Xi and over 40 executives of international corporations on March 28 in a bid to attract foreign investment, could also explain the need to divert public attention. The videos had a secondary objective: to wage psychological warfare against Taiwanese people and, with the help of "local collaborators" of the Chinese Communist Party, influence public opinion in Taiwan, Lin said. However, Lin argued that this will likely have a "limited effect," as "you're unlikely to change how you perceive yourself just because of those videos." Su, meanwhile, said if the propaganda had also targeted the Taiwanese public, it had failed completely on that front, as Taiwan's stock exchange proved unperturbed by the drills. The Taiex, the Taiwan Stock Exchange's weighted index, ended up 584.27 points, or 2.82 percent on Monday, the first day of the two-day drills, and 18.05 points, or 0.08 percent, the next day. "This showed that even the investors, who are usually most sensitive to potentially adverse outside factors, did not seem to care much about the drills," Su said. Regarding whether Taiwanese media should proactively report on such heavy-handed Chinese propaganda, given that not many people in Taiwan follow state-run CCP mouthpieces, Sung Wen-Ti (), a sessional lecturer at Australian National University, argued that it should do so to build up the public's resiliency against propaganda. "Democracies thrive on the free flow of information to create a more informed and resilient citizenry, as resiliency comes from exposure therapy, not protective bubbles," Sung said. "What democracies need is a counterbalance against propaganda with better information, so as to build information literacy and immunity," Sung added. Lin also said that the Taiwanese media should still report on the PLA rhetoric, provided that it provides factual information to counter any unfounded claims in propaganda to avoid "perpetuating disinformation." (By Sean Lin) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address In Iraqs Shia-majority south, demonstrators protested Turkish complicity in attacks on Syrian Alawites and Shia in Syria. The protesters also called on Sunni religious scholars to openly oppose Islamic terrorism. Most Islamic terrorists are Sunni Arabs. Earlier in the day the Basra Unified Tribal government sought more government support for the mostly Iranian-controlled Popular Mobilization Forces/PMF militias. PMF members have been victims of Islamic terrorism. The militias dont want to go freelance because that tends to get out of hand and difficult to stop, even after the Islamic terrorists have been suppressed. Iraqis back sending PMF militiamen to help guard the Syrian border and keep the violence in Syria from spreading into Iraq. Iraq has been at war since 2003, when troops from the U.S. and Britain invaded to oust dictator Saddam Hussein. The invasion succeeded in less than 40 days, but resistance from irregulars and Islamic terrorists continues to the present. The problem with suppressing Islamic terrorism is that it is all over the Middle East and wherever Moslems have settled overseas. Large-scale Islamic terrorism actually began in the 1970s and changed Arab attitudes towards this perennial problem. For the first time in a long time the wealthiest Arab states, namely those with oil in the Persian Gulf, are recognizing that Islamic terrorism is not just an ancient problem that keeps recurring but, because of affluence and global communications, is a real threat to the lives of most Moslems and the wealth of the unprecedented number of Arabs who now have it. In response these Arab states, especially Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates or UAE and Qatar have built modern intelligence and internal security capabilities that have been increasingly able to deal with Islamic terrorism within their own borders as well as throughout the Islamic world. This is a modern solution for an ancient problem. But there is more. Out of this came the unprecedented admission that we have met the enemy and they are us. There followed a frank discussion about the characteristics of Islamic culture that nurture and periodically revive Islamic radicalism and terrorism. For over a thousand years there has been a cycle of every few generations Islamic conservatism getting violent. But as a result of these changes in the Moslem world the War on Terror has morphed into the War Against Islamic Radicalism. This religious radicalism has always been around, for Islam was born as an aggressive movement that used violence and terror to expand. Moslems long took it for granted while their unprepared non-Moslem their neighbors didnt. Past periods of conquest are regarded fondly by Moslems, who are still taught by many of their religious leaders and teachers that non-Moslem infidels are inferior and should be killed if they refuse to bec9me Moslems. The current enthusiasm for violence in the name of God has been building through the 20th and into the 21st centuries because the thousand year battles with Islamic conservatives have left Moslems, especially Arabs, vulnerable to more advanced cultures. Historically, Islamic radicalism has flared up into mass bloodshed periodically, usually in response to corrupt governments, as a vain attempt to impose a religious solution on some social or political problem. The current violence is international because of the availability of planet wide mass media that needs a constant supply of headlines, and the fact that the Islamic world is awash in tyranny and economic backwardness. This is why the 2011 Arab Spring uprisings, and their desire to establish democracies, sought and failed to do some permanent damage to the Islamic terrorism tradition. The excesses of Islamic terror groups trying to outdo each other in the righteous violence department is recorded and broadcast worldwide. This disgusts most people, Moslems as well as infidels. As a result there is growing condemnation of Islamic radicals by the media and leading Islamic clerics in Moslem nations. These changes have not come as quickly as many hoped, but at least they appear to have arrived. This came as a surprise to many Moslems. Thats because the past has had a huge influence on Islamic societies. For many, this resistance to change is considered a religious obligation. Many Moslems consider democracy a poisonous Western invention. There is still a lot of affection for the clerical dictatorship of legend, a just and efficient government run by virtuous religious leaders. The legends are false and there are centuries of failed religious dictatorships to prove it. But this legend has become a core belief for many Moslems and tends to survive assaults by reality or the historical record. Islamic radicalism itself is incapable of mustering much military power, and the movement largely relies on terrorism to gain attention. Most of the victims are fellow Moslems, which is why the radicals eventually become so unpopular among their own people that they run out of popular support and fade away. This is what is happening now. The 2003 American invasion of Iraq was a clever exploitation of this, forcing the Islamic radicals to fight in Iraq, where they killed many Moslems, especially women and children, thus causing the Islamic radicals to lose their popularity among Moslems. This sharp decline in the Islamic nation opinion polls was startling. The revival of Islamic terrorism in the wake of the Arab Spring uprisings reminded people that this religion-based violence is a liability for Islam, not a virtue, and this new spike in Islamic terrorism is again roundly condemned by most Moslems. For centuries the West did not get involved in these Islamic religious wars, unless attacked in a major way. Moreover, modern sensibilities have made retaliation difficult. For example, fighting back is considered by Moslems as a culturally insensitive War on Islam. Some Western media have picked up on this bizarre interpretation of reality. It gets worse. Historians point out, for example, that the medieval Crusades were a series of wars fought in response to Islamic violence against Christians, not the opening act of aggression against Islam that continues to the present. Thus, the current war on terror is, indeed, in the tradition of the Crusades. And there are many other Crusades brewing around the world, in the many places where aggressive Islamic militants are making unprovoked war on their Christian and non-Moslem neighbors. Political correctness among academics and journalists causes pundits to try and turn this reality inside out, but a close look at the violence in Africa, Asia and the Middle East shows a definite pattern of Islamic radicals persecuting those who do not agree with them, not the other way around. While Islamic terrorism grabs most of the headlines, it is not the cause of many casualties, at least not compared to more traditional wars. The vast majority of the military-related violence and deaths in the world comes from many little wars in Africa, South America and Asia that get little media attention outside their region. Actually some of them are not so little. While casualties from international terrorism are relatively few, they are intentionally publicized by the killers. In contrast the dead and wounded from all the other wars actually comprise over 90 percent of all the casualties. The Islamic terrorism looms larger because the terrorists threaten attacks everywhere and at any time, putting a much larger population potentially in harm's way, and the more numerous potential victims are unhappy with that prospect. In the West and most Moslem nations, Islamic terrorism remains more of a threat than reality. Saudi Arabia has been coping with the latest outbreak of Islamic terrorism since the 1970s, adapted and basically driven most Islamic terrorists out of the country where many Islamic terrorists came from. For example, Osama bin Laden found this out in the 1980s and managed to flee Saudi Arabia, where he was born and raised. Bin Laden and many other Islamic terrorist leaders concluded that the West was at fault here, supplying the ideas and technology that made Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam, impossible for Islamic terrorists to operate in. From that came the decision to launch more attacks in the West, to discourage Western nations from supporting Moslem despots and to encourage more Moslems to join the latest round of the eternal Islamic revolution. That actually worked for a while, but eventually people realized that most of those young men who went off to be Islamic terrorists were never heard from again and that most of their victims were fellow Moslems. All this began in Saudi Arabia, where Wahhabism, one of the strictest and most conservative strains of Islam developed over the centuries. With the arrival of vast quantities of oil income in the 1970s, Saudi Arabia and wealthy individuals could finance a huge outreach program to less zealous Moslems. This was done with cash to build mosques, religious schools and buy local cooperation as well as missionaries from Arabia. There are still a lot of old-school Moslems in Saudi Arabia but most now recognize that the Islamic terrorism, while a source of pride when Infidels were killed, was more of a liability than an asset. Another incentive to reform and pacify Islam is Shia Islam as championed by Iran, which wants to overthrow the majority 80 percent Sunni predominance. This effort began in the 1980s and continues more than three decades later. Now Iran is on the verge of getting nuclear weapons and that changes a lot of attitudes in Arabia as well. Recent setbacks for Iran have left the Iranians sanctioned, disarmed and temporarily impotent. Taiwan calls Trump's 32% tariff 'deeply unreasonable' ROC Central News Agency 04/03/2025 02:21 PM Taipei, April 3 (CNA) The Executive Yuan on Thursday decried U.S. President Donald Trump's 32 percent tariff on Taiwanese goods announced hours earlier and said it would lodge a representation with Washington. In a news release, the Cabinet described the pledged American tariffs, expected to take effect on April 9, as "deeply unreasonable" and "highly regrettable." Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee () said the government would "lodge a solemn representation" with the United States Trade Representative and continue negotiating with the U.S. to "ensure the interests of our nation and industries." At a news conference in Washington, Trump announced a 10 percent baseline tariff on most goods imported to the U.S., set to take effect on April 5. However, Taiwan and dozens of other countries, including some of America's main trading partners, will face much higher duties, in what Trump described as an effort to address "unbalanced" trading relationships, reduce trade deficits, and boost American manufacturing capacity. In particular, the Trump administration will impose a 32 percent "reciprocal tariff" on Taiwanese goods entering the U.S., starting April 9. The "reciprocal tariffs" target countries that have enacted tariffs, manipulated currencies, subsidized exports, and implemented other trade barriers against the U.S., Trump said. Nevertheless, certain goods, such as copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber, energy and "certain critical minerals" will be exempt from such levies, according to the White House. In the news release, Lee said the planned 32 percent tariff was "unfair to Taiwan" because it "does not accurately reflect the trade and economic situation" between the two sides. Taiwan's exports to the U.S. have increased significantly in recent years mainly because of the surge in demand from the U.S. for semiconductors and artificial intelligence-related products, Lee said. CNA graphic CNA graphic Lee said many Taiwanese information and communication companies had relocated their manufacturing from China to Taiwan due to American tariffs on goods from China in Trump's first term and the U.S. technology control policy against China over national security concerns. In that regard, she went on, Taiwan should not be subject to high tariffs in view of its "tremendous contributions to the U.S. economy and national security." According to Lee, Taiwan's government has been actively cracking down on transshipment by Taiwanese producers, a practice where goods are routed through a third country to alter their country of origin in order to benefit from lower duties imposed on that third country. The spokesperson hence argued that Taiwan should not be treated in a similar way as Vietnam, which will face a 46 percent tariff, Cambodia (49 percent), and Thailand (36 percent), where the problems of transshipment are more pronounced. Lee also criticized the "unclear" methodology, scientific basis, and international trade theory behind the U.S.' tariff measures. According to data from Taiwan's executive body, the U.S. ran a trade deficit with Taiwan at about US$73.9 billion in 2024, a year-on-year increase of 54.6 percent, making Taiwan the sixth largest source of trade deficits for the U.S. The data also showed that in 2024, the total bilateral trade reached US$158.6 billion, up 24.2 percent compared to the previous year. (By Teng Pei-ju) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lai pledges 'maximum support' for Taiwan businesses amid U.S. 32% tariff ROC Central News Agency 04/03/2025 09:55 PM Taipei, April 3 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te () on Thursday night pledged to provide assistance to businesses set to be hit by U.S. President Donald Trump's 32 percent tariffs on Taiwanese imports. Describing the planned levy as "an unprecedented challenge to global trade and economics," Lai said in a social media post that the government remains closely engaged with Taiwanese industries, and will work to provide them with "maximum support," without offering details. In the meantime, the government will continue to communicate with the United States over "the many unreasonable aspects of the tariff" and to "protect our national interests," he said. Lai added that he has instructed the executive branch, led by Premier Cho Jung-tai (), to report to the public about the potential impact of Trump's tariffs on Taiwan's economy and the government's response plan "in the shortest time possible." At a news conference in Washington, Trump announced sweeping "reciprocal tariffs" on dozens of countries, with Taiwan facing an import tax of 32 percent starting April 9. According to the White House, only a number of goods, such as copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber, energy and "certain critical minerals" will be exempt from the latest economic measure. Lai's comments were made hours after the Cabinet issued a news statement decrying Washington's planned duties, calling the move "deeply unreasonable" and "highly regrettable." According to Lai, the pledged tariff against Taiwanese goods fails to "reflect the highly complementary" trade relationship between Taiwan and the U.S. Taiwan has run trade surpluses with the U.S. in recent years due to growing American demand for Taiwanese information and communications technology products, Lai said, adding that he found it "unreasonable" that this is being used as a reason for Washington to impose high tariffs on Taiwan. The president also expressed concern that Trump's tariffs will adversely impact the global economy. (By Teng Pei-ju) Enditem/AW NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taiwan's opposition parties urge government action over Trump tariff ROC Central News Agency 04/03/2025 04:30 PM Taipei, April 3 (CNA) Taiwan's two biggest opposition parties on Thursday expressed dismay at U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement that he would impose a tariff of 32 percent on Taiwanese goods and urged the government to negotiate with the U.S. on the issue. Wang Hung-wei (), a lawmaker from the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT), told reporters that the high tariffs represent a "devastating shock" for Taiwan, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses. Wang blamed the ruling Democratic Progressive Party government for being too "optimistic" when Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. expanded the level of its investment in the U.S. and for failing to secure membership to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. KMT lawmaker Ko Ju-chun () accused the government of "doing nothing" in response to the looming tariffs and said Canada and Mexico had successfully avoided tariffs by proactively negotiating with the U.S. In a news release on Thursday, the KMT said President Lai Ching-te () had been "solely catering" to the United States and emphasized that the KMT's policy is to be "pro-U.S. but not dependent on the U.S." "[Lai] has no strategic autonomy in foreign economic and trade negotiations," the statement said. Meanwhile, the Taiwan People's Party (TPP), the second-largest opposition party in Taiwan, also expressed concern over Trump's proposed tariff on Taiwanese goods. In a news release issued on Thursday, the TPP pointed to Taiwan's export-oriented economy, especially in traditional industries, which could be forced to establish production facilities in the U.S. The TPP called on the government to launch negotiations with the U.S. on the issue and to implement strategies for economic resilience, including industry transformation and job stability. Earlier on Tuesday, Taiwan's government had described the Trump administration's proposed 32 percent tariff on Taiwanese goods as "deeply unreasonable." Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee () said the government would "lodge a solemn representation" with the United States Trade Representatives and continue negotiating with the U.S. to "ensure the interests of our nation and industries." (By Wang Cheng-chung and James Thompson) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC Ministry of National Defense 2025/04/03 PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan 1.Date 6 a.m. Apr. 2 (Wed.) to 6 a.m. Apr. 3 (Thu.) (UTC+8) 2.PLA activities 59 sorties of PLA aircraft, 23 PLAN ships and 8 official ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 31 out of 59 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's northern, central, southwestern and eastern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities. 1140403_PLA activities_0 1140403_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address "New partnership" between defence and private sector set to boost UK defence sector Major venture capitalists from across Europe can help unlock billions of pounds of private investment into UK technology and defence firms, as part of a "new partnership" between defence and private investors, the Defence Secretary has said today. 2 April 2025 Influential investors convened in London to discuss future routes to defence financing. Government's record spending uplift and reforms will help unlock private-sector investment into UK defence, Defence Secretary said. Defence "is an ethical investment" as Government set to back Britain's high-growth companies with new innovation funding. Comes alongside up to 250 million of Government investment into UK firm to help boost missile defence. In a first-of-its-kind meeting between venture capital firms and a UK Defence Secretary, John Healey MP spoke at a breakfast roundtable at Plural's offices in central London. The meeting was convened by Plural partner Khaled Helioui, and Grace Cassy of Ten Eleven Ventures who has supported the development of the Strategic Defence Review as part of the Defence Review Team. In a changing world, with increasing threats and war in Europe, the group discussed how to incentivise greater private investment into defence and deep technology, to help deter Britain's adversaries, secure the UK economy, protect the incomes of hard-working families up and down the country and support European security. The Defence Secretary set out how the Government's largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War - with 2.5% of GDP spend by April 2027 and a commitment to hit 3% in the next Parliament - coupled with defence reforms, can unlock private sector investment into high-growth British firms - boosting jobs and delivering on the Government's Plan for Change by making defence an engine for growth across the UK. This includes: A new ambition to unlock more private defence investment, supported by long-term certainty of rising Government defence investment over the next decade, alongside the new Government direct expenditure target for SMEs including start-ups and scale-ups to give high-growth companies more certainty and sight of future investment. Turbocharging innovation with a new 400 million ringfenced budget for UK Defence Innovation, announced by the Chancellor last week, alongside a commitment to spend 10% of the MOD equipment budget on novel technologies. Making clear that "defence is an ethical investment" in deterring conflict and preventing the huge human and economic costs caused by conflicts such as Ukraine. It comes as some funds look to renegotiated Limited Partner Agreements to better enable investment into defence. In a sign of the Government backing British firms with long-term public investment, the meeting comes as the Government confirms up to 250 million investment across the next six years with UK defence tech firm Roke - supporting around 150 jobs and delivering analysis, trials and technology development against ballistic and hypersonic missile threats. Roke - based in Hampshire and focused on innovation and AI development - have been awarded a contract up to six-years in length, known as Science and Technology Oriented Research and development in Missile defence (STORM). The framework streamlines crucial research into innovative technologies, helping enhance the UK's ability to detect, identify, and defeat ballistic and hypersonic missile threats - work that is essential to safeguarding the UK and its allies. Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said: In this new era of rising threats, national security isn't just a military imperative. It's the foundation for economic growth, securing Britain's future and our Government's Plan for Change. As Defence Secretary, I am determined to bring together investors, innovators and industry in a new partnership that drives British jobs and growth. We want to mobilise private investors to take a fresh look at defence, alongside the certainty of our Government's record long-term uplift in defence spending. With countries across Europe facing new threats stepping up to take more responsibility for our continent's defence is an ethical investment, and it's good to see increasing numbers of private investors recognising that. There is no more important investment than in our European security. As a government we are determined to tackle any blockers which are preventing private finance from flowing into UK defence, which is why today's landmark meeting is so important. The Defence Secretary also said the government is bringing "a clear mandate to bring innovative technology to the frontline at speed and enable the defence sector to create high-growth British success stories that deliver investor returns and national security." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address RAF to protect European skies on NATO'S eastern flank UK jets will protect the skies of NATO's eastern flank once again, working for the first time with Sweden to protect Polish airspace. 2 April 2025 UK jets will protect the skies of NATO's eastern flank once again, working for the first time with Sweden to protect Polish airspace. British built Typhoon jets arrived in Eastern Poland today, to take part in a NATO enhanced air policing mission. RAF pilots will join up with Swedish Airforce Gripen fighter jets, as Europe steps up together to defend NATO airspace. The deployment is the first time that Swedish fighter jets will take part in air policing on the territory of another NATO Ally since they joined the alliance in 2024. Touching down in Poland on Tuesday (1 April), Defence Minister Lord Coaker met with Polish Deputy Prime Minister Wadysaw Marcin Kosiniak-Kamysz and Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson, to outline the UK's commitment to European security and to mark the start of the operation. Defence Minister Lord Coaker said: The UK is unshakeable in its commitment to NATO. With threats increasing and growing Russian aggression, it is vital that we stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies. This latest air policing mission in Poland displays the UK's ability to operate effectively with NATO's newest member in Sweden and deter our common adversaries across the alliance's airspace, keeping us secure at home and strong abroad. The mission comes as European NATO allies are stepping up on European security and defence spending. NATO remains the cornerstone of UK Defence and this government will continue to pursue a "NATO first" defence policy and take on a leadership role in the alliance. Keeping the country safe is the Government's first priority, and an integral part of its Plan for Change. The work of defence is critical to the security and stability of the UK, keeping us secure at home and strong abroad, whilst supporting all of the Government's five missions as a foundation of its plan. Poland is also a key UK defence and security partner, NATO Ally and partner in the European Group of Five (E5). Our nations have both been large supporters of Ukraine and have the led the way in increasing defence spending in Europe. In last week's Spring Statement, the Chancellor announced an additional 2.2 billion for defence in 2025/26. This comes on top of the announcement of the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War, as the government will hit 2.5% of GDP spend by April 2027, and has a commitment to hit 3% in the next Parliament. This mission follows on from 2024's successful air policing missions across the continent. In April 2024, six Typhoon fighter jets with over two hundred personnel were stationed in Romania defending NATO's eastern border. Followed on by an August 2024 deployment of four cutting edge F-35B jets to Iceland, defending NATO airspace in the high north. This time, six British built typhoons from II (AC) Squadron will be patrolling Polish airspace, having travelled from RAF Lossiemouth. RAF Typhoons and Voyagers also conduct NATO air policing in the UK through the Quick Reaction Alert Force, based at RAF Coningsby, Lossiemouth and Brize Norton, protecting UK airspace 24/7, 365 days a year. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK and Australia launch new partnership in weapons development The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group Australia have announced a ground-breaking partnership. 3 April 2025 The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group Australia have announced a ground-breaking partnership to develop next-generation sub-systems for low-cost weapons systems, bringing together cutting-edge technologies from both nations. The partnership will combine the UK's Modular Weapons Testbed and Australia's SHARKTOOTH programme, which features innovative 'plug-and-launch' modular technology, aimed at accelerating the employment of advanced, yet affordable weapons technologies. This integration represents a significant advancement in complex weapons development and will help accelerate and de-risk industry's development of guided weapon sub-systems. Under this collaboration both nations will develop new approaches and new technologies enhancing future weapon systems capability, including low-cost seekers (sensors which are responsible for detecting and tracking targets), additively manufactured engines (created by 3D printing or similar), modular warheads and fuses, algorithms to improve guidance, navigation and control and other novel weapons technologies. The partnership will deliver several key advantages: reduced development costs and risks through shared expertise accelerated deployment of new capabilities enhanced interoperability between UK and Australian forces develop and demonstrate innovation ideas from both nations, helping to invest in sovereign defence ecosystems flexible, modular design allowing rapid adaptation to emerging threats. The collaboration enables both nations to access a wider pool of innovative ideas, co-operate on technology development and deliver faster against a broader range of operational use cases. For both the UK and Australia this will strengthen defence primes, small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and academia in support of Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) and the UK Ministry of Defence's Complex Weapons Pipeline and Australia's Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Enterprise. Each nation is developing a concept demonstrator equivalent to a concept car to enable us to prove future technologies before they go into sovereign industrial and military capabilities. SHARKTOOTH is Australia's developmental weapon system, a small missile which will enable rapid integration of various components including sensors, warheads, guidance systems and propulsion units. A spokesperson for Dstl said: This collaboration represents a step-change in how we develop and deploy complex weapons systems. By combining Australia's modular approach with the UK's missiles know-how, we're creating more versatile and capable systems for our armed forces. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Budrys at NATO: Russia does not want peace, it wants Ukraine, it wants to subjugate Ukraine and other neighbors Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of Foreign Affairs Updated 2025-04-03 On 3 April, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Kestutis Budrys, is attending a meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers in Brussels to discuss the priorities of the forthcoming Summit in The Hague, including ensuring defence and deterrence, and the importance of increasing defence spending. Before the meeting, the head of Lithuania's diplomacy told journalists that this was a strategic moment and the decisions taken today would determine the security situation of tomorrow. "Strengthening defence and increasing defence spending means we have to invest more. The current levels of our defense expenditure are too low to achieve the desired results. So at The Hague summit, we have to at least double our baseline defense spending from 2% up to 4% of GDP," said Budrys. According to the Minister, already this year Lithuania is spending 4% of its GDP on defence, and next year the figure will be raised to 5.25%. When speaking about Ukraine, the Minister said that it was important to seek a just and lasting peace and stressed that the question of Ukraine's NATO membership must remain on the table, because this is the most direct way to provide effective security guarantees. "Russia does not want peace, it wants Ukraine, it wants to subjugate Ukraine and other neighbors," said Budrys. He also expressed his condolences over the deaths of U.S. soldiers in Pabrade. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The EU needs to urgently find ways to provide for Ukraine's critical needs, says Vice Minister K. Aleksa Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence 2025-04-03 International cooperation | Security and defense policy Vice Minister of National Defence Karolis Aleksa took part in the informal EU Defence Ministers' meeting in Poland today. The ministerial addressed the possible security guarantees for Ukraine, plans of member states to continue increasing assistance to Ukraine and accelerate training assistance and arming. The meeting was attended by Minister of Defence of Ukraine and NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska. Vice Minister of National Defence K. Aleksa invited EU member states and institutions to continue increasing military assistance to Ukraine. Lithuania's military aid to Ukraine will make up approx. 0.3% of GDP. Lithuania supports the initiate to purchase and urgently deliver 2 million items of 155 mm ammunition, we have contributed EUR 13 million for the ammunition initiate this year. Vice Minister of National Defence underscored that the EU had to find ways to meet of other critical needs of Ukraine , such as air defence, UAV capability and brigade training, without delay too. Lithuania proposed to clearly define the military aid targets with concrete deadlines, thus improving accountability for delivering on the commitment to Ukraine. The EU Defence Ministers also discussed the defence and readiness improvement measures and increasing investment in the European defence industry, topics addressed in the European Commission's White Paper for European Defence - Readiness 2030.. "We support the White Paper and the way it is meant to improve the European defence readiness. We need to go full speed ahead with its implementation," underscored Vice Minister and added that the key shared objective of the EU and EU member states was to make heavy and quick investments in defence. Lithuania will meet its defence spending commitments and is ready to cooperate with the European Commission to find the most effective ways of using the EU financing instruments. Lithuania seeks to secure EU financing for strengthening the external EU border with Russia and Belarus. Vice Minister K. Aleksa also stressed that the EU initiatives developed to energize the EU defence industry had to ensure expansion of the defence industry, especially towards those states which were increasing defence spending significantly and planned sizeable purchase from European manufacturers. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO Deputy Secretary General calls for stepping up support to Ukraine at EU Defence Ministers' informal meeting NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 03 Apr. 2025 On Thursday (3 April 2025), NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska attended an informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers in Warsaw, hosted by EU High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas and Polish Minister of Defence Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, together with Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. Ms Shekerinska stressed that securing lasting peace for Ukraine is essential for European security and for global stability. She called for strengthened support for Ukraine, now and for the long haul, noting that for peace to be lasting, Ukraine must remain strong. The Deputy Secretary General welcomed recent announcements by NATO Allies of further aid to Ukraine, including air defence, armoured vehicles, drones, and munitions. NATO is also helping to strengthen Ukraine's armed forces for the long-term, including through financial support, NATO's Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU), and the new NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis Training and Education Centre in Poland. Ms Shekerinska commended NATO-EU cooperation, both in Brussels and on the ground, where NSATU works closely with the EU's Military Assistance Mission for Ukraine (EUMAM) to streamline international support for Ukraine. She welcomed the EU's recent initiatives on defence and noted that NATO-EU discussions would continue with High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas, at the upcoming meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Apple Intelligence is still not available in China, which means that it cannot be accessed by those who purchased their devices especially in the mainland. Moreover, those who bought iPhones outside of China but are either temporarily visiting or residing in the mainland also cannot access Apple Intelligence Apple Intelligence Is Not Available on China-Purchased Devices Apple Intelligence may have been released in October, but many places around the world have yet to gain access to it, including China. According to 9to5Mac, this was previously a problem faced by the European Union and China with iOS 18.1's rollout. However, with the release of iOS 18.4, Apple Intelligence was made available to Europe not in China. According to the Apple Support website, supported devices would not be able to run Apple Intelligence if they were bought in mainland China. That being said, it is a different story for users who bought from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau, as they would be able to use Apple Intelligence if they have a supported device. If You Are in the Mainland, Apple Intelligence Won't Work It should also be noted that users who bought their devices outside of the country but are visiting the mainland for vacation would not be able to use it as well. This would be a similar experience to not being able to access certain social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and more when in the mainland. Apple Intelligence will be accessible once more by aforementioned users once they leave China. However, those who bought their devices outside of China but reside on the mainland will still not have access. Apple Intelligence and Its Global Availability After Apple rolled out iOS 18, all eyes were on Apple Intelligence and its availability on devices, and the tech company did not restrict its global rollout as it was made available to all eligible devices and regions. However, there is an emphasis on "eligible" as not all devices are compatible with the technology, including models older than the iPhone 15, non-M-series iPads and Macs. Two regions stood out when Apple rolled out its AI, particularly as the EU and China both did not get access to the technology because of local regulations or legislation in place. However, Apple worked it out over at the EU and the recent iOS 18.4 released in late March made the AI available for users, but many were wondering why iPhone mirroring is still unavailable. 22 days after Ukraine agreed to an immediate ceasefire, Russia continues to distract and delay: UK statement to the OSCE Ambassador Holland questions Russia's seriousness about peace when it continues to attack Ukraine with hundreds of drones and refuses to commit to a full, immediate ceasefire. 3 April 2025 Location: Vienna Delivered on: 3 April 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered) Thank you, Mister Chair. It is now a full 22 days since Ukraine expressed its readiness to accept an immediate 30-day ceasefire. The only condition that Ukraine attached was that Russia should agree to it too. Rather than grasp this opportunity for peace, Russia has chosen to continue to fight, a decision whose consequence is the needless sacrifice of more lives of soldiers and civilians on both sides. The indiscriminate shelling of civilian areas has shown no sign of slowing down. Last week, Russia sent over a thousand drones towards Ukraine. In Kharkiv, a military hospital was targeted. A kindergarten was damaged. At least, 25 people were hurt, including a 15-year-old girl left in a serious condition. This is the price that Ukrainians pay for the Kremlin's game playing with the peace process. Rather than engaging seriously with the US-led peace initiative, President Putin is resorting to his old playbook and looking to distract and delay. His attempt last week to question the credibility of President Zelenskyy was nothing more than a transparent ploy to deflect from the real matter at hand: Russia's failure to get more seriously to the table, and commit to a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Regrettably, we see no evidence that President Putin is seriously preparing for peace. Published readouts of the US convened ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia confirmed a naval ceasefire and prevention of use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea. The UK welcomed this important step, but Russia immediately backtracked and placed conditions on the agreement - despite good faith commitment from Ukraine. Just this week, President Putin has ordered the largest conscription drive since the war began. We do not need to look far for reminders as to why this war must end. This week marks the third anniversary of the appalling acts by the invading Russian forces in Bucha. The gruesome images of bodies lying in the streets shocked the world. Russia's armed forces acted with total contempt and disregard for civilian life and the most fundamental principles of the laws of war. However, rather than reckoning with these atrocities, we see continued Russian efforts in this council and others, to spread disinformation in an effort to absolve themselves of responsibility for these illegal and inhumane actions. This is despite the litany of evidence, including witness testimonies, independently verified satellite imagery, photos and videos. The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has categorically documented attacks on civilians, including conflict-related sexual violence, and summary executions. Mister Chair, we must emphasise the need for accountability for these actions and renew our commitment to collaborating towards enduring peace. Distortions of the historical record will not help in this endeavour. Rather we need the Russian state to commit to peace and demonstrate the sincerity of its words. Thank you, Mister Chair. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK and Allies to build on momentum in efforts to enhance Ukraine's security, uphold international law and protect human rights: UK Statement to the OSCE UK Military Advisor, Lt Col Joby Rimmer, says a lasting peace in Ukraine can only be provided if we step up and offer real and credible security assurances to deter Russia from further threatening European Security. 3 April 2025 Location: Vienna Delivered on: 2 April 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered) Thank you, Mr Chair. The UK strongly condemns Russia's unprovoked and illegal war against Ukraine. We are committed to providing extensive economic, humanitarian, and defensive military assistance to Ukraine. The UK remains steadfast in supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and security, ensuring that Russia faces consequences for its actions. Ukraine has shown it is ready and willing to work towards peace. The ball is now in Russia's court, and President Putin must prove he is serious about peace and sign up to a ceasefire with immediate effect. The Kremlin's procrastination and game-playing with the agreed naval ceasefire in the Black Sea, despite good faith participation from all sides, show Russian promises to be hollow. We welcome President Trump's readiness to increase the pressure on Russia if President Putin does not agree to a ceasefire soon. The Institute for the Study of War and others assess that Russia is using the temporary ceasefire in the Black Sea as leverage to stall efforts toward a general ceasefire and extract additional concessions from the West. This is unacceptable. We must remain committed to the US and Ukraine's proposal for a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire. British, French, and Ukrainian military leaders are set to meet in the coming days to build on recent momentum in efforts to enhance Ukraine's security. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that the meeting aims to drive forward the next stage of detailed planning, following a call with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Last week in the UK's Permanent Joint Headquarters, Britain and France led over 200 planners from 'a group of nations politically aligned to the defence, security and sovereignty of Ukraine'. These military planning meetings have focused on how we keep the skies, the seas and the border of Ukraine safe. To be clear, a lasting peace in Ukraine can only be provided if we step up and offer real and credible security assurances to deter Russia from further threatening European Security. And what is Russia's contribution to peace and negotiations? We have seen no sign of Putin abandoning his war of aggression and his disregard of international law is being realised on the ground in Ukraine. Russian forces shelled a frontline settlement in Ukraine's south-east Zaporizhzhia region, resulting in the death of a 66-year-old woman and injuries to five others. In the early hours of today, Russian attacks left 45,000 in Kherson without power, and this is despite Russia's alleged agreement to a partial ceasefire on strikes against energy facilities following technical discussions in Riyadh in March. The Report of the independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine published on 11 March, highlighted a sharp increase in criminal cases concerning Russian troops executing wounded, captured or surrendering Ukrainian soldiers. In most situations, soldiers targeted 'were in a vulnerable situation: unarmed, lying on the ground, kneeling, and some were partly naked'. On 26 March, Russia convicted 23 captured Ukrainians on terrorism charges in a trial widely denounced by the international community as a sham and a gross violation of international law. The defendants received sentences ranging from 13 to 23 years in maximum security forced labour camps. The trial's proceedings were marred by numerous irregularities and violations of fair representation. Defendants were reportedly denied access to independent legal counsel and subjected to coerced confessions obtained under duress. Our position has not changed. We will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. President Putin must stop playing games and agree to a full and immediate ceasefire without conditions. Only through a concerted and sustained effort can we hope to bring an end to this egregious campaign of violence and pave the way for a just and lasting peace. Efforts to support Ukraine and its pursuit of justice must be intensified to ensure our commitment to upholding international law and protecting human rights. Thank you, Mr Chair. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Volodymyr Zelenskyy Thanked Troops Taking Part in the Kursk Operation President of Ukraine 3 April 2025 - 22:23 In the Sumy region, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the command posts of the 36th Separate Marine Brigade named after Rear Admiral Mykhailo Bilynskyi and the 82nd Bukovynska Separate Air Assault Brigade. Commander of the 36th Marine Brigade Mykyta Vitek briefed the President on the operational situation along the front in the Kursk region, the brigade's ongoing tasks, and the intentions of Russian forces. He also shared the brigade's experience in using fiber-optic drones and its cooperation within the Drone Line project. The President met with unit commanders as well. The parties discussed the issue of increasing the state's order for officer training. Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the warriors for their service and presented them with the Orders "For Courage" II and III class, and the Medal "For Military Service to Ukraine." "Thank you for what you are doing in the east of our country, in the Donetsk direction, and in the Kherson region. Thank you also for defending the Sumy region - for this operation. We highly value your service. Take care of yourselves, and thank you once again for preserving Ukraine," said the Head of State. Commander of the 82nd Air Assault Brigade Volodymyr Hutsul briefed the President on the combat situation in his brigade's defense zone and reported on the tactics used by North Korean troops. The President also spoke with company and battalion commanders about how to advance the development of unmanned systems. The warriors offered proposals on military training, particularly extending the time allocated for unit coordination. Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the defenders for everything they do for Ukraine and awarded them with the Orders "For Courage" III class. "Above all, I want to thank you for everything you've done and continue to do. Thank you for defending our families and Ukraine. I've long wanted to thank you personally and present these awards - for this direction, for the Kursk operation. Although, of course, what the brigade is doing in the Vovchansk direction is also critically important. But this operation has saved many, many lives," the President said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address For Ukraine, Justice Is Not a Bargaining Chip but a Moral and Legal Necessity - Iryna Mudra President of Ukraine 3 April 2025 - 21:40 Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Iryna Mudra held a meeting with Rapporteur of the Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe Eerik-Niiles Kross, Deputy Head of the Secretariat of the PACE Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights Guillem Cano Palomares, and Head of the Verkhovna Rada's Permanent Delegation to PACE Mariia Mezentseva-Fedorenko. The meeting focused on the establishment of an international special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine, the transfer of frozen Russian assets for the recovery of our state, and the restoration of justice. "This is not just about compensation for Ukraine as a country that has suffered from aggression and is now forced to rebuild its cities, economy, and society. It's also about affirming Europe's agency and its readiness to defend itself," said Iryna Mudra. The Deputy Head of the Presidential Office thanked the partners from the Council of Europe for their support of the Ukrainian people and emphasized that for Ukraine, justice is not a bargaining chip but a moral and legal necessity. "Ukraine and the entire world need a just and lasting peace. If peace is not just, it cannot last - and it cannot be true peace," she noted. PACE representatives reaffirmed their steadfast support for Ukraine in the pursuit of justice, the establishment of a dignified peace, and the upholding of the rule of law and human rights. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address President Was Briefed on the Course of the Kursk Operation and Presented Warriors with State Awards President of Ukraine 3 April 2025 - 20:08 During a working trip to the Sumy region, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited one of the command posts, received a briefing from the commander, and presented state awards to the warriors. The President was briefed on the course of the Kursk operation and the operational situation on that section of the front. Ukrainian troops continue to hold a buffer zone on Russian territory to prevent an advance on the Sumy region. The parties also discussed the performance of the brigades, the needs of the grouping, the use of drones and electronic warfare systems, as well as countering enemy UAVs of various types. The President spoke with the warriors and presented them with the Orders of Bohdan Khmelnytsky III class, and the Orders of Danylo Halytskyi. "Thank you for what we call the Kursk direction - for defending our Sumy and Kharkiv regions. These are very important steps and a very important operation. Everything you're doing matters greatly. Thank you for these months of endurance, for your true heroism - yours and that of your brothers-in-arms. Thank you for your service," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Since August of Last Year, Our Units Have Been Fighting on Enemy Territory - One of Ukraine's Most Significant Achievements in This War - Address by the President President of Ukraine 3 April 2025 - 19:10 I wish you health, dear Ukrainians! Today, two of our regions - Chernihiv and Sumy. A strategic area, the border with Russia. I began the day in Yahidne - just a few days ago was the anniversary of the village's liberation from the occupiers. It's important that many facilities in the village have been restored, new homes are being built, and efforts are being made to preserve the memory of how the Russians held the entire village in the basement of a school. One of the most cynical and inhumane crimes of this war. We will never forget it. I was also in Chernihiv, where I met with representatives of all our communities in the region. Many issues were raised - especially by the communities bordering Russia and suffering virtually constant shelling. Today, we made the decision to allocate additional funds to support all such communities - those along the border with the enemy, as well as frontline communities. Next week, government officials are expected to get this done - tangible additional funding for each of these communities to address their most urgent needs. Today, I was also in our Sumy region - one of the directions where a lot is at stake. I wanted to be here in person. I wanted to personally thank our warriors: the Air Assault Forces - the 80th Brigade, the 82nd, the Marine Corps - the 36th Brigade - and everyone carrying out missions in the Kursk region, defending our state, defending our Sumy region from the Russians' unrelenting desire to advance into Ukraine from these directions. I want to thank all our soldiers, all our sergeants, and every one of our officers who are fighting with absolute heroism in these areas. Since August of last year, our units have been fighting on enemy territory - one of Ukraine's most significant achievements in this war. It is entirely fair to bring the war back to where it came from. Today, we spoke with the commanders of our units in this area - discussed key needs, additional support, equipment supply, drones, operational issues. We are working to defend our positions. We know what the enemy is counting on. In any case, we will defend our state, our independence and our people. I'm grateful to all our people who are defending their homes, their communities, and their land - our land. Being here, supporting the state and the army, caring for those around you - all of this matters, all of this helps us preserve Ukraine and bring peace closer. Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Volodymyr Zelenskyy Meets with Heads of Territorial Communities in the Chernihiv Region President of Ukraine 3 April 2025 - 14:53 During his working trip to the Chernihiv region, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the heads of territorial communities. "It is important that you are here today, as well as on all the days of the fight for the Chernihiv region. I would like to thank all the heads, all the citizens of Ukraine, residents of the Chernihiv region for saving the Chernihiv region," the Head of State stated. The Head of Chernihiv Regional Military Administration, Viacheslav Chaus, reported that Russia is shelling the region every day. Since the beginning of the year, two civilians have been killed and 26 others wounded as a result of enemy attacks. He also added that 81% of the destroyed infrastructure facilities have already been rebuilt or are being restored. The meeting also addressed Ukraine's efforts to establish a just and sustainable peace and obtain reliable security guarantees. "We will inevitably achieve a just peace; we have many different strategies in place. But what truly matters is that we remain strong at the negotiating table," the President noted. Volodymyr Zelenskyy specifically underscored that security guarantees must include economic ones. After all, they will be aimed, among other things, at the recovery of the affected regions. The participants also discussed support for entrepreneurs and the implementation of business support programs. The Head of State called on representatives of the Chernihiv regional communities to propose initiatives that would foster business development in the frontline areas. Other important topics included the provision of free meals for schoolchildren, an increase in the number of school buses procured, and the construction of shelters in schools and kindergartens. The President shared that he would discuss the issue of subventions for the construction of additional shelters in the frontline regions with the Prime Minister. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address We Must Strengthen Pan-European Efforts to Enhance Our Collective Security - Ihor Zhovkva President of Ukraine 3 April 2025 - 14:13 Deputy Head of the Office of the President, Ihor Zhovkva, met with the Minister for Finance of Denmark, Nicolai Wammen. Ihor Zhovkva emphasized Denmark's significant contribution to Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. The total amount of assistance provided exceeds EUR 8.3 billion. The meeting primarily focused on Ukraine's defense needs and the vision for reliable security guarantees. "We must strengthen pan-European efforts to enhance our collective security. The security of Europe is our shared responsibility. Therefore, Europe must be at the table of any negotiations on the restoration of a just peace in Ukraine," the Deputy Head of the Presidential Office stressed. Another main topic of discussion was Ukraine's progress toward EU membership, which will be a key priority during Denmark's upcoming Presidency of the EU Council in the second half of this year. "All the practical prerequisites for the opening of three clusters are now in place. We are counting on the political unity of all EU countries in supporting a fair negotiation process on Ukraine's accession to the EU," Ihor Zhovkva concluded. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Drone Strike On Kharkiv Kills 3, Injures 32 By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service April 04, 2025 A Russian drone attack on April 3 hit residential buildings Kharkiv in northeastern Ukraine, killing at least three people and injured 32, local officials said. The drone attack triggered fires, regional Governor Oleh Synyehubov, said on Telegram, adding that that two children were among the injured. Synyehubov said several multistory apartment blocks had been hit, and a blaze erupted on the roof of one building. Rescue teams were still searching through the rubble for survivors hours after the attack. According to authorities, people were buried under the rubble. Rescuers earlier recovered the remains of the third victim, Mayor Ihor Terekhov said. Terekhov said Russian troops launched at least 14 strikes on Kharkiv in just 40 minutes. Synyehubov also said one person was hurt in a drone strike on Ruski Tyshky, a village outside Kharkiv, which has been hit repeatedly by Russian drone attacks in the past week. In the southeastern city of Dnipro, three people were injured in a mass drone attack, the regional governor said. And at least seven drones attacked targets in Zaporizhzhya region, injuring one, the regional governor said. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said early on April 4 that Russian air defense units repelled a drone flying toward Moscow. "Emergency specialists are working at the site where fragments have fallen," Sobyanin said on Telegram. Russian news agencies later quoted a representative of the federal transport agency as saying the capital's Vnukovo airport had been reopened for departing flights subject to further official approvals. The agencies said two other airports had also been ordered to close but there was no immediate word on whether their operations had resumed. With reporting by Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kharkiv-ukraine-drone- attack-russia-moscow/33373185.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla., April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Depo-Provera (DP) and generic equivalent (DMPA) investigated by Federman & Sherwood. Federman & Sherwood, a premier boutique class-action litigation law firm based in Oklahoma City and Dallas announced that it is investigating cases related to womens use of Depo-Provera (DP) and its generic equivalent (DMPA). DP is used as an injectable birth control and to manage menstrual cycles. At high doses it can be used to treat certain types of cancer. Its use has been linked to possibly cause brain tumors including meningioma brain tumors. This new evidence is supporting lawsuits that seek to compensate women for medical monitoring and financial compensation. If you took or know someone who took Depo-Provera you should find out what your rights are to seek financial compensation. Federman & Sherwood is committed to providing aggressive legal representation to recover financial compensation for women harmed by use of DP or its generic equivalent. If you wish to discuss this action, obtain further information, and/or participate in this litigation, please contact Tashia Poore either by email at tdp@federmanlaw.com or visit our firms website www.federmanlaw.com. Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, 04 April, 2025 IBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A., EURONEXT), the world leader in particle accelerator technology, will be hosting a Capital Markets Day (CMD) this coming Monday 7 April from 2pm to 5:00pm CEST (8am ET to 11:00am ET) at its headquarters in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, and via live webcast. At the event IBAs management team will outline the companys strategic roadmap and long-term growth ambitions. The agenda is outlined below: Webcast open: 2pm Purpose, Vision & Strategy Business Review Execution Plan & Opportunities Industrial Solutions RadioPharma Solutions Engineering & Supply Chain Proton Therapy Dosimetry New Ventures Financials & Outlook Webcast close: 5pm To attend via webcast, register via this link. Please complete the registration at least 15 minutes before the start of the event. No new material financial information will be delivered during the CMD. The presentation will be made available on IBAs website ahead of the event on https://www.iba-worldwide.com/iba-capital-markets-day-2025 and a recording will also be made available shortly afterwards on the same page and on https://www.iba-worldwide.com/financial-presentations. For further information, please contact ICR Healthcare at IBA@icrhealthcare.com. ***ENDS*** About IBA IBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A.) is the world leader in particle accelerator technology. The company is the leading supplier of equipment and services in the fields of proton therapy, considered as the most advanced form of radiation therapy available today, as well as industrial sterilization, radiopharmaceuticals and dosimetry. The company, based in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, employs approximately 2,100 people worldwide. IBA is a certified B Corporation (B Corp) meeting the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance. IBA is listed on the pan-European stock exchange EURONEXT (IBA: Reuters IBAB.BR and Bloomberg IBAB.BB). More information can be found at: www.iba-worldwide.com CONTACTS Olivier Lechien Corporate Communication Director +32 10 475 890 communication@iba-group.com ICR Healthcare Amber Fennell, Angela Gray, Lucy Featherstone +44 (0) 20 3709 5700 IBA@icrhealthcare.com Attachment Press release Geneva / Paris / Brussels, 4 April 2025 Indosuez Wealth Management plans to acquire Banque Thaler Indosuez Wealth Management, a subsidiary of the Credit Agricole Group, has announced that its entity in Switzerland has signed an agreement to purchase the entire capital of Banque Thaler, a Swiss banking institution recognised for the excellence of its services and its long-term expertise in wealth management. This acquisition is fully in line with Indosuez Wealth Managements development strategy, strengthening its position in the Swiss market, the global hub for wealth management, where Indosuez has been present since 1876. Banque Thaler, founded in 1982, is renowned for the excellence of its services and its long-term expertise in wealth management. With this acquisition, Banque Thaler and Indosuez clients will have access to a broader range of products and expertise. In particular, Banque Thalers clients will be able to benefit from the Groups solidity, its international network and its multiple capabilities in financing, corporate finance, fund servicing and asset management. For Jacques Prost, Chief Executive Officer of Indosuez Wealth Management: This acquisition strengthens our position in Switzerland and illustrates our determination to provide our clients with solutions that are increasingly tailored to their needs. Indosuez is pursuing its growth strategy in a sector undergoing consolidation and is now a major stakeholder in wealth management in Europe. Marc-Andre Poirier, Chief Executive Officer of Indosuez in Switzerland, adds: We are delighted to welcome Banque Thaler. Following record revenue in 2024, this acquisition will bring our assets under management to nearly 50 billion1. We will work with Banque Thalers teams to make this acquisition a success for both clients and employees. Dirk Eelbode, Chief Executive Officer of Banque Thaler: Indosuez Wealth Management in Switzerland is the ideal partner for Banque Thaler. What our management can offer will not only be maintained but enhanced thanks to the substantial resources made available by a major banking group with exceptional financial strength. This can only benefit our clients. At Indosuez we also find the entrepreneurial spirit that characterises Banque Thaler, and this is a great opportunity for all our employees to join an ambitious growth project. These are all positives that will contribute to our continued goal of being the leading player in Switzerland for our clients. The finalisation of the transaction remains subject to the prior approval of the relevant supervisory authorities, and is expected to be completed in the second half of 2025. This acquisition would bring Indosuez Wealth Managements total assets under management to nearly 220 billion. The impact on Credit Agricole S.A.s CET1 ratio would be limited. **** Indosuez Wealth Management contacts Indosuez Wealth Management: Jenny Sensiau I jenny.sensiau@ca-indosuez.com I +33 7 86 22 15 24 Indosuez Wealth Management: Melinda Raverdy | melinda.raverdy@ca-indosuez.ch | +41 79 258 7829 About Indosuez Wealth Management Indosuez Wealth Management is the global wealth management brand of the Credit Agricole Group, the worlds 9th largest bank by balance sheet (The Banker 2024). For over 150 years, Indosuez Wealth Management has been helping major private clients, families, entrepreneurs and professional investors to manage their private and professional assets. The bank offers a customised approach enabling each of its clients to preserve and develop their wealth in line with their aspirations. Its teams offer a continuum of services and products including Advisory & Financing, Investment Solutions, Fund Servicing & Technology and Banking Solutions. Indosuez Wealth Management employs more than 4,500 people in 16 territories around the world: in Europe (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Monaco, Spain and Switzerland), Asia-Pacific (Hong Kong SAR, New Caledonia and Singapore), the Middle East (Dubai, Abu Dhabi) and Canada (representative office). With 215 billion in client assets at the end of December 2024, Indosuez Wealth Management is one of Europes leading wealth management companies. Find out more at https://ca-indosuez.com/. About Indosuez in Switzerland Indosuez Wealth Management is one of Switzerlands leading financial institutions, and is now one of the countrys top three foreign banks. The bank in Switzerland handles wealth management, transactional commodity financing and commercial banking. Its roots date back to 1876, when it was established in Geneva. Its teams include more than 800 specialists based in Geneva, Lugano and Zurich, as well as in Asia (Hong Kong and Singapore) and in the Middle East (Abu Dhabi and Dubai). They combine their knowledge of the local environment with the extensive expertise and scope for action of the global network of Indosuez, Credit Agricole CIB and the Credit Agricole Group. The Swiss platform is in charge of developing Indosuez Wealth Managements activities in Switzerland, the Middle East and Asia. Find out more at www.ca-indosuez.com and at https://switzerland.ca-indosuez.com/ About Banque Thaler Banque Thaler is a Swiss wealth management bank that became independent in 1999 and is mainly owned by its directors. Throughout its existence, it has stood out for its focus on a targeted client base and on its discretionary management services. Serving families and entrepreneurs, its management is based on dynamic asset allocation by integrating solid expertise in selecting alternative funds and private equity. The bank has offices in Geneva and Zurich. https://banquethaler.ch/ 1 For CA Indosuez (Switzerland) SA - Pro forma to date Attachment Paris, France April 4, 2025 Eviden, the Atos Group business leading in digital, cloud, big data and security today announces that it has obtained a standard-level qualification from the French National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI) for its Trustway IP Protect product. This milestone attests to the reliability, robustness and effectiveness of this virtual private network (VPN) in protecting sensitive communications and data. Guaranteeing secure communications for businesses of all sizes, Trustway IP Protect ensures protected connectivity across networks, safeguards sensitive information against potential threats and hacking, and guarantees the confidentiality and integrity of IP flows. Based on a cryptographic module developed in France, the Trustway IP Protect range meets IPSec standards and will soon support post-quantum algorithms, as part of its strategic partnership with CryptoNext Security. The ANSSI qualification process consists of a rigorous assessment demonstrating the security level of the cybersecurity solutions, their compliance with ANSSI requirements, and the suppliers credibility. The qualification also establishes compliance with the IPsec DR standard, enabling Trustway IP Protect to be implemented in systems, subject to restricted distribution approval. This milestone follows obtaining Trustway's EAL4+ Common Criteria certification in December 2024, further consolidating Trustway IP Protect's position as a trusted, benchmark solution for securing critical infrastructures. With a standard-level qualification, regulated organizations can deploy Trustway IP Protect with complete confidence, meeting the requirements set by Instruction II No. 901. Antoine Schweitzer-Chaput, Director of the Trustway range, Eviden, Atos Group said Achieving this qualification not only demonstrates our commitment to high-quality security solutions, but also affirms our ability to meet the complex needs of our customers. This achievement is the result of several years' hard work by our teams, and today enables us to offer a sovereign French solution to all infrastructures constrained by the strictest regulations. *** About Eviden1 Eviden is a next-gen technology leader in data-driven, trusted and sustainable digital transformation with a strong portfolio of patented technologies. With worldwide leading positions in advanced computing, security, AI, cloud and digital platforms, it provides deep expertise for all industries in more than 47 countries. Bringing together 41,000 world-class talents, Eviden expands the possibilities of data and technology across the digital continuum, now and for generations to come. Eviden is an Atos Group company with an annual revenue of c. 5 billion. About Atos Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 78,000 employees and annual revenue of c. 10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 68 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris. The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space. Press contact: globalprteam@atos.net 1 Eviden business is operated through the following brands: AppCentrica, ATHEA, Cloudamize, Cloudreach, Cryptovision, DataSentics, Edifixio, Engage ESM, Evidian, Forensik, IDEAL GRP, In Fidem, Ipsotek, Maven Wave, Profit4SF, SEC Consult, Visual BI, X-Perion. Eviden is a registered trademark. Eviden SAS, 2025. Attachment Premium income (insurance premiums and other income) of 18.5 billion, up +8.9% Growth in activity in all business lines: property and casualty insurance (+5.2%), health & protection (+15.2%) and savings & pensions (+8.1%) Sustained growth in France (+8.9%) and in international subsidiaries (+8.3%) Insurance revenue (IFRS 17) of 16.3 billion Net income of 961 million Economic operating income of 954 million, up 52 million Moderate weather loss experience Combined ratio of 95.1% Solvency ratio of 185% without transitional measure Solvency ratio of 241% without transitional measure on underwriting reserves Groups IFRS equity of 10.5 billion, up +0.6 billion Contractual service margin of 3.8 billion Groupama is showing very satisfactory results, both in terms of revenue growth and profitability. Despite a turbulent economic and geopolitical environment, the group demonstrates the solidity and strength of its mutual model, which forms the foundation of an ambitious development strategy as well as investments for the future. I would like to thank our elected representatives and our employees for their commitment., stated Laurent Poupart, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Groupama Assurances Mutuelles. The group's results are very positive, with net income supported by a robust operating income from our insurance activities. These results stem from all our operations, including property and casualty as well as life and health insurance, both in France and internationally. They enable us to navigate the complex and uncertain economic environment on solid foundations and to generate investment capacity for our development., added Thierry Martel, CEO of Groupama Assurances Mutuelles. The Board of Directors of Groupama Assurances Mutuelles met on 3 April 2025, under the chairmanship of Laurent Poupart, and approved the Groups combined financial statements for fiscal year 2024. Activity (insurance premiums and other income) At 31 December 2024, Groupamas combined premium income stood at 18.5 billion, +8.9% increase from 31 December 2023. The increase stemmed from the development of property and casualty insurance (+5.2%), sustained growth in health & protection insurance (+15.2%) and the return to growth in the savings & pensions business (+8.1%). Groupama premium income at 31 December 2024 in millions of euros 31/12/2024 Like-for-like change Property and casualty insurance 9,241 +5.2% Health & Protection 5,900 +15.2% Savings & Pensions 3,115 +8.1% Financial businesses 246 +15.6% GROUP TOTAL 18,503 +8.9% In France Insurance premium income in France at 31 December 2024 amounted to 15.2 billion, up +8.9% compared with 31 December 2023. In property and casualty insurance, premium income amounted to 7.0 billion at 31 December 2024, up +4.3%, driven by strong growth in business and local authority insurance (+8.1%), home insurance (+5.1%) and, to a lesser extent, by the increase in motor insurance (+2.8%) and agricultural insurance (+2.9%). The health & protection business saw strong growth (+14.8%) to 5.5 billion as at 31 December 2024, underpinned by increases in both group health (+23.5%) and individual health (+7.2%). In savings & pensions, premium income rebounded with a growth of 9.7%, reaching 2.7 billion as of December 31, 2024. This growth was driven by an increase in individual savings & pensions (+12.6%), particularly in unit-linked savings & pensions (+22.5%), which benefited from the success of Telluma. International At the end of 2024, business reached 3.1 billion, up +8.3% at constant scope and exchange rates compared with 31 December 2023, benefiting from strong business growth in Hungary (+19.1%) and sustained growth in Romania (+7.4%) and Italy (+5.9%). Property and casualty insurance premium income totalled 2.3 billion as at 31 December 2024, up +8.2% from the previous period. This growth was driven by property and casualty insurance for businesses and local authorities (+15.6%), mainly in Romania, by motor insurance (+6.7%), which grew significantly in Hungary, Bulgaria and Italy, as well as by strong performances in home insurance (+11.7%), particularly in Greece and Bulgaria. Premium income in savings & pensions was virtually stable (-0.6%) at 0.5 billion, with growth in individual savings & pensions in unit-linked products (+25.5%) being offset by the decline in the group savings& pensions business (-41.8%). In health and protection, business grew significantly (+21.8%) to 0.4 billion, benefiting from growth in group insurance (+40.0%), mainly in Romania and Bulgaria, and from the increase in individual protection (+14.1%). Financial businesses The Groups premium income was 246 million, including 238 million from Groupama Asset Management and 8 million from Groupama Epargne Salariale. Results Economic operating income increased to 954 million at 31 December 2024, up 52% compared with 31 December 2023. It came from property and casualty insurance for 429 million (316 million as at 31 December 2023) and health and protection insurance for 299 million (233 million as at 31 December 2023). The Groups non-life combined ratio was 95.1% at 31 December 2024, an improvement of -1.7 points compared with 31 December 2023. This change is linked to the decrease in claims related to natural disasters, for which the cost net of reinsurance amounted to 637 million in 2024 compared with 968 million in 2023, as well as the improvement in the attritional loss experience and the increase in prior year reserve bonuses. Conversely, the discount effect is less than in 2023. The operating costs ratio was virtually stable at 28.1% as at 31 December 2024. Economic operating income from savings & pensions was 327 million at 31 December 2024 (156 million at 31 December 2023). It benefited in particular from the result of the switch of the share reinsured by Groupama Gan Vie to CNP Retraite in the PREFON Retraite reinsurance treaty, effective 1 January 2024. Economic operating income from financial activities amounted to +44 million and that of the Groups holding company activity was -146 million at 31 December 2024. The transition from economic operating income to net income includes non-recurring items, in particular the realisation of capital gains or losses, the change in the fair value of financial assets, and financing expenses. The Groups overall net income totalled 961 million at 31 December 2024, compared with 510 million at 31 December 2023. Balance sheet Groups IFRS equity totalled 10.5 billion at 31 December 2024 compared with 9.9 billion as at 31 December 2023. This change is mainly due to the positive contribution of income for the financial year and the perpetual subordinated debt issue in early July 2024 for 600 million, mitigated by the redemption in May 2024 of the perpetual subordinated notes issued in 2014 for 871 million. The Groups contractual service margin, which represents the deferred future profits of outstanding contracts in savings and pensions and long-term protection, amounted to 3.8 billion at 31 December 2024, up +162 million compared with 31 December 2023. Insurance investments totalled 67.2 billion, down -3.2 billion, mainly due to the disposal of assets from the Prefon portfolio and changes in the financial markets (rise in government bond yields). At 31 December 2024, the Solvency 2 ratio, without transitional measure on underwriting reserves, was 185%. The 12-point decrease in the rate compared with end-2023 was mainly due to unfavourable market effects reflecting the widening of government bond spreads as well as the redemption in May 2024 of perpetual subordinated bonds issued in 2014 for 871 million, partially offset by the net income for the fiscal year and by the issue of perpetual subordinated debt in July 2024 for 600 million. The ratio with transitional measure on underwriting reserves, authorised by the ACPR, was 241%. The Group's financial strength was highlighted by Fitch Ratings, which affirmed Groupama's rating at 'A+' with a 'Stable' outlook on 9 December 2024. Group Communications Department Press contact Analysts and investors contact Safia Bouda + 33 (0)6 02 04 48 63 safia.bouda@groupama.com Valerie Buffard +33 (0)6 70 04 12 38 valerie.buffard@groupama.com For the financial statements as at 31/12/2024, the Groups financial information consists of: this press release, which is available on the website groupama.com, the universal registration document of Groupama, which will be filed with the AMF on 28 April 2025 and posted on the www.groupama.com website on the same day. Appendix: Groupama key figures Premium income (insurance premiums and other income) million 31/12/2023 pro forma* 31/12/2024 Change ** as % > France 13,919 15,154 +8.9% Property and Casualty 6,686 6,974 +4.3% Health & Protection 4,804 5,515 +14.8% Savings & Pensions 2,429 2,665 +9.7% > International & Overseas territories 2,866 3,103 +8.3% Property and Casualty 2,096 2,268 +8.2% Health & Protection 316 385 +21.8% Savings & Pensions 453 450 -0.6% TOTAL INSURANCE 16,785 18,257 +8.8% Financial businesses 213 246 +15.6% Groupama premium income 16,997 18,503 +8.9% * Based on comparable data ** Change on a like-for-like exchange rate and consolidation basis Economic operating income million 31/12/2023 31/12/2024 Insurance - France 544 856 Insurance - International 161 200 Financial businesses 35 44 Holding companies -113 -146 Economic operating income* 627 954 * Economic operating income: net income restated for realised capital gains and losses, allocations to and reversals of provisions for long-term impairment and unrealised gains and losses on financial assets recognised at fair value from property and casualty, health/personal protection, financial and holding company activities (these items being net of corporate income tax). Non-recurring transactions net of tax, impairment of goodwill (net of tax) and external financing expenses are also restated. Net income million 31/12/2023 31/12/2024 Insurance - France Insurance - International 572 141 906 161 Financial businesses 35 44 Holding companies -128 -151 Disposal of activities in Turkey -110 - Net income 510 961 Balance sheet million 31/12/2023 31/12/2024 Groups IFRS equity 9,862 10,487 Subordinated debts 3,009 2,741 - classified as Groups IFRS equity 871 600 - classified as Financing debt 2,138 2,141 Contractual service margin 3,649 3,810 Total balance sheet 91,949 89,396 Main ratios 31/12/2023 31/12/2024 Combined non-life ratio 96.8% 95.1% Debt ratio 21.8% 18.7% Solvency 2 ratio (with transitional measure*) 267% 241% Solvency 2 ratio (without transitional measure*) 197% 185% * transitional measure on underwriting reserves Financial strength rating - Fitch Ratings Rating * Outlook Groupama Assurances Mutuelles and its subsidiaries A+ Stable * Insurer Financial Strength (IFS) About Groupama Group For more than 100 years, Groupama Group has based its actions on timeless, humanist values to enable as many people as possible to build their lives in confidence. It relies on humane, caring, optimistic and responsible communities. The Groupama Group, one of the leading mutual insurers in France, carries out its insurance and service business activities in ten countries. The Group has 12 million members and customers and 32,000 employees throughout the world, with premium income of 18.5 billion. Attachment ZURICH, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The XRP Ledger has long been celebrated for its speed and cost-efficiency, but despite its potential, XRP has lacked one critical piece: intelligent, adaptive DeFi infrastructure. That gap is now being filled, XploraDEX is here, and its not just another decentralized exchange. Its a full-blown AI-powered trading protocol, designed to bring precision, automation, and strategy to the XRP ecosystem. 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A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ca0af8d9-7a36-422a-8d67-d18d8ad48c6f US & Canada, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a new comprehensive report from The Insight Partners, "Remote Access Solution Market Size and Forecast (2021 - 2031), Global and Regional Share, Trend, and Growth Opportunity Analysis Report Coverage: By Type, Mode of Deployment, End-Use Industry, and Geography", the global Remote Access Solution market is observing significant growth owing to the rise of remote and hybrid work and an increase in the adoption of the BYOD concept. For More Information and To Stay Updated on The Latest Developments in The Remote Access Solution Market, Download The Sample Pages: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00039856/ The report runs an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, and future opportunities. In general, the remote access solution market comprises a vast array of type, mode of deployment, and end use industry which are expected to register strength during the coming years. Market Overview and Growth Trajectory: Market Growth: The remote access solution market size was valued at US$ 2.60 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 8.65 billion by 2031; it is estimated to record a CAGR of 19.4% from 2024 to 2031. Remote access solutions enable workers to work from any location with an internet connection, which results in lower overhead expenses, enhanced productivity, and better work-life balance. Additionally, remote access solutions support businesses to ensure continuity and resilience during unexpected disruptions such as natural disasters or public health situations. Hence, significant benefits offered by remote access solutions, such as increased productivity, enhanced business continuity, increased flexibility for remote workers, and cost savings on physical infrastructure, are driving the market. For Detailed Market Insights, Visit: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/reports/remote-access-solution-market Rise of Remote and Hybrid Work and Increase in Adoption of BYOD Concept: The growing preference of employees for remote and hybrid working surges the adoption of remote access solutions for maintaining effective communication and security between operations. These solutions enable businesses to effectively maintain operations and collaborate with their employees across diverse locations, fostering flexibility. The growing adoption of remote and hybrid working models also creates a need among businesses to adopt the bring-your-own-device (BYOD) concept. This concept allows employees to access corporate systems from any location using their devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, resulting in more flexibility and efficiency. For instance, according to JumpCloud Inc, in October 2024, more than 80% of businesses were using BYOD; out of these, 68% observed improved employee productivity. As businesses seek secure and reliable ways to manage and support the use of personal devices, it creates a demand for remote access solutions that enable safe access to enterprise networks. Hence, the rise in remote and hybrid work, along with the adoption of the BYOD concept, supports businesses in protecting sensitive data, improving communication, and continuing their sustainable growth. Stay Updated on The Latest Remote Access Solution Market Trends: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00039856/ Regional Overview: Europe's remote access solution market is segmented into Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Russia, and the Rest of Europe. Factors such as the growing BYOD culture, flexible work needs, data security regulations, and cloud adoption are driving the growth of remote access solutions across the region. According to Eurostat, cloud computing adoption across Europe grew by four percentage points from 2021 to 2023. In 2023, 45% of EU businesses utilized cloud services, with large enterprises showing a notably higher adoption rate. Cloud adoption rates across Europe differ significantly by country. In 2023, Finland (78%), Sweden (72%), Norway (71%), and Denmark (70%) were at the forefront of cloud computing adoption among enterprises within the European Union. Cloud adoption is driving the growth of remote access solutions by offering scalable, cost-effective, and secure infrastructure for businesses. As remote and hybrid work models become more common, cloud-based remote access solution ensures seamless, flexible access to corporate resources, enhancing productivity, collaboration, and security across distributed workforces. Geographical Insights: Asia Pacific dominated the remote access solution market in 2024. North America is the second-largest contributor to the global remote access solution market, followed by Europe. Need A Diverse Region or Sector? Customize Research to Suit Your Requirement: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/inquiry/TIPRE00039856/ Remote Access Solution Market Segmentation, Applications, Geographical Insights: Based on type, the market is segmented into secure remote-access VPN, identity and access management (IAM) solutions, multi-factor authentication (MFA), single sign-on (SSO), endpoint security, and others. The secure remote access-VPN segment dominated the market in 2024. In terms of mode of deployment, the market is segmented into cloud and on-premise. The cloud segment held a larger share of the market in 2024. In terms of end-use industry, the remote access solution market is segmented into BFSI, government, manufacturing, IT and telecommunications, healthcare, and others. The IT and telecommunications segment dominated the market in 2024. Key Players and Competitive Landscape: The Remote Access Solution Market is characterized by the presence of several major players, including: Cisco Systems Inc Zoho Corp Pvt Ltd Microsoft Corp AnyDesk Software GmbH BeyondTrust Corporation Splashtop Inc GoTo Technologies USA, Inc. Kaseya Limited TeamViewer SE RealVNC Limited These companies are adopting strategies such as new product launches, joint ventures, and geographical expansion to maintain their competitive edge in the market. For Region-Specific Market Data, Check Out Brief Sample Pages: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00039856/ Remote Access Solution Market Recent Developments and Innovations: "Wacom and Splashtop, the pioneer in high-performance remote access solutions, announced the European launch of Wacom Bridge, now accessible within Splashtop Enterprise and Splashtop Business Access Performance products. This breakthrough solution for remote and hybrid creative workflows addresses the challenges studios and artists face when working remotely. Splashtop announced a strategic partnership with Ingram Micro China. With the combination of Splashtop's advanced remote desktop control technology and Ingram Micro's expertise in technical services and supply chain management, the partnership will bring secure remote access and support solutions to more users in China." "Don't Delay, Purchase Today! [Free 10% Customization, Free Post-Sale Assistance, PDF Deliverable]" - Purchase Premium Copy of Global Remote Access Solution Market Size and Growth Report (2021-2031) at: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/buy/TIPRE00039856/ Conclusion: The remote access solution market is being significantly driven by several key factors, including the increasing adoption of remote and hybrid work models across various industries such as banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI), government, manufacturing, IT and telecommunications, and healthcare. Additionally, the growing acceptance of the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) concept and the rising demand for multi-factor authentication (MFA) contribute to this trend. Moreover, the integration of remote access solutions with the Internet of Things (IoT) is playing a vital role in the market's expansion. Furthermore, the increasing investments in advanced technologies and the growing popularity of cloud-based software are likely to propel the demand for remote access solutions in the future. Technological advancements and integration of advanced technologies such as machine learning; the development of AI-based remote access solutions; and the development of quantum computing solutions that reduce operating costs are expected to create opportunities for market growth during the forecast period. A surge in the need for AI-based solutions, market players' focus on developing customized AI and cloud-based remote access solutions, and an increase in research and development activities also benefit the remote access solution market. The report from The Insight Partners, therefore, provides several stakeholdersincluding software providers, system integrators, and end users with valuable insights into how to successfully navigate this evolving market landscape and unlock new opportunities. Related Report Titles: About Us: The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials. Contact Us: If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us: Contact Person: Ankit Mathur E-mail: ankit.mathur@theinsightpartners.com Phone: +1-646-491-9876 Press Release: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/pr/remote-access-solution-market BOSTON, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GA International , a global leader in laboratory identification solutions, under its LabTAG brand, announced today that its DYMO LabelWriter 5-Series Printing Kits are now compatible with eLabNexts Digital Lab Platform (DLP) an intuitive and flexible system for collecting, managing, and analyzing laboratory information. Were excited to expand our partnership with eLabNext by introducing this Dymo LabelWriter 550 Add-On, comments George Ambartsoumian, Founder and CEO of GA International. This tool allows researchers to print labels directly from the eLabNext interface, making sample identification faster, easier, and more reliable. Its another step forward in our shared mission to streamline lab workflows and improve sample and data management in laboratories. The integration is available in the eLabMarketplace through an Add-on, and provides researchers with a reliable, precise, and user-friendly solution for labeling in critical laboratory workflows. Allowing users access to pre-designed label templates, ensuring perfect formatting, dimensions, and layout alignment directly within the eLabNext DLP. We jump on every opportunity to enhance our platform by integrating tools that simplify workflows, collaborating with companies that share our passion for sample and data management, and streamlining lab operations for our users, says Zareh Zurabyan, VP of Commercial, Americas. This recent collaboration with LabTAG is a win for everyone and ensures that labs can focus on their research with confidence, knowing their labeling needs are met with innovative and reliable technology. The new add-on aims to streamline laboratory labeling by combining the Dymo LabelWriter5-Series (550, 550 Turbo, and 5XL) with LabTAG's durable cryogenic labels, offering a cost-effective labeling solution, particularly beneficial for labs working on a tight budget. To learn more about eLabNexts DLP and how to connect with LabTAGs Dymo LabelWriter 550 Printer Add-on, visit the eLabMarketplace . About eLabNext: eLabNext is a Digital Lab Platform (DLP) that offers an intuitive and flexible solution to collect, manage, and analyze laboratory information. The software includes modules for an Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) , Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) , sample tracking , inventory management , protocol management , and a wide range of marketplace Add-ons to extend functionality. eLabNext enhances productivity by streamlining the processes of documenting, organizing, searching, and archiving data, samples, and protocols. The data is accessible through cloud-hosted ISO-certified data centers. The software is most suitable for industry R&D labs, ranging from start-ups to mid-size pharma and biotech companies and academic research groups and institutes. In January of 2025, eLabNext announced it has merged with SciShield , a leading digital EHS solution provider, to create SciSure , a visionary new platform that integrates health and safety, laboratory operations, and research into a centralized Scientific Management Platform (SMP). About LabTAG: GA International has over 25 years of experience as a leading manufacturer of specialty labels, supplying laboratory identification solutions to biomedical research labs, biobanks, hospitals, and other healthcare institutions. Since its inception, GA International has become a worldwide leader in cryogenic and chemical-resistant labels , strongly dedicated to R&D and customer service. For more information about GA International, please visit www.labtag.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2f565358-4e3d-490d-b741-b625ed6d967c Dublin, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "OTT Business Messaging Market: 2024-2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The OTT (Over the Top) Business Messaging research suite provides analysis and actionable insights into the role of OTT business messaging in enterprises' omnichannel communications strategies; enabling key stakeholders such as CPaaS (Communications Platform-as-a-Service) and OTT messaging vendors to effectively navigate this diverse and complex market. The suite covers a wide range of OTT business messaging channels, including WhatsApp, WeChat, Messenger, LINE, Telegram, Viber, KakaoTalk, and Zalo. Included is a detailed assessment of recent developments in the OTT business messaging market, such as WhatsApp's update to its pricing with the return of price per message, free service messages, and utility messages within the 24-hour customer service period, and how the growth of RCS (Rich Communication Services) business messaging will impact the OTT business messaging market. Alongside this it provides strategic recommendations and analysis of how OTT business messaging vendors can capitalise on features such as broadcast and channel messages, and click-to-chat ads. The report also provides strategic recommendations and analysis of how OTT business messaging vendors can best develop and monetise conversational AI and chatbot services, location-based messaging services, conversational commerce services, customer data platforms, and super apps. The market forecast suite includes several different options that can be purchased separately, including access to data mapping and a forecast document, a strategy and trends document detailing critical trends in the market, and strategic recommendations for monetising and developing OTT business messaging solutions and services. The research suite includes a Competitor Leaderboard, which can be purchased separately; containing analysis and market sizing for 20 leading OTT business messaging vendors, who each provide support for one or more OTT messaging channels. Collectively, the suite provides a critical tool for understanding the OTT business messaging market, which allows OTT business messaging providers, and other stakeholders, to shape their future strategies for service development and monetisation. Its unparalleled coverage makes this research suite an incredibly useful resource for charting the future of a key telecommunications market. Key Features Market Dynamics: Insights into the key trends and opportunities within the OTT business messaging market, including the changes to WhatsApp's pricing model, the development of click-to-chat ads, the expansion of international authentication rates by WhatsApp, and the development of AI chatbots and conversational AIs. It also includes strategic recommendations and analysis of how OTT business messaging vendors can best develop strategies for monetising conversational commerce, channels and broadcast messages, customer data platforms, and super apps. Insights into the key trends and opportunities within the OTT business messaging market, including the changes to WhatsApp's pricing model, the development of click-to-chat ads, the expansion of international authentication rates by WhatsApp, and the development of AI chatbots and conversational AIs. It also includes strategic recommendations and analysis of how OTT business messaging vendors can best develop strategies for monetising conversational commerce, channels and broadcast messages, customer data platforms, and super apps. Key Takeaways & Strategic Recommendations: In-depth analysis of key development opportunities and findings within the OTT business messaging market, accompanied by strategic recommendations for OTT business messaging vendors seeking to grow their revenue and improve their offerings. In-depth analysis of key development opportunities and findings within the OTT business messaging market, accompanied by strategic recommendations for OTT business messaging vendors seeking to grow their revenue and improve their offerings. Benchmark Industry Forecasts: The suite provides five-year forecasts for the global OTT business messaging market; providing data for the total number of monthly active OTT messaging users, total number of OTT messages sent each year, total number of OTT business messages sent each year, and total revenue from OTT business messaging. This is split by the following market verticals: advertising, banking, content payment, healthcare, retail, ticketing, and other. The suite provides five-year forecasts for the global OTT business messaging market; providing data for the total number of monthly active OTT messaging users, total number of OTT messages sent each year, total number of OTT business messages sent each year, and total revenue from OTT business messaging. This is split by the following market verticals: advertising, banking, content payment, healthcare, retail, ticketing, and other. Future Leaders' Index: Key player capability and capacity assessment for 20 OTT business messaging vendors, with market sizing and detailed analysis for each vendor's offering. Market Data & Forecasting Report The market-leading research suite for the OTT Business Messaging market includes access to the full set of forecast data, comprising more than 17,000 datapoints. Total Number of Monthly Active OTT Messenger App Users Total Number of OTT Messages Sent Total Number of OTT Business Messages Sent Total Revenue from OTT Business Messaging Market vertical splits are provided for the following market verticals: Advertising, Banking, Content Payment, Healthcare, Retail, Ticketing, and Other. Interactive Forecast Excel contains the following functionality: Statistics Analysis: Users benefit from the ability to search for specific metrics, displayed for all regions and countries across the data period. Graphs are easily modified and can be exported to the clipboard. Country Data Tool: This tool lets users look at metrics for all regions and countries in the forecast period. Users can refine the metrics displayed via a search bar. Country Comparison Tool: Users can select and compare specific countries. The ability to export graphs is included in this tool. What-if Analysis: Here, users can compare forecast metrics against their own assumptions, via three interactive scenarios. Competitor Leaderboard Report The Competitor Leaderboard included in this report provides detailed evaluation and market positioning for 20 OTT business messaging vendors. These key companies are positioned as established leaders, leading challengers, or disruptors and challengers, based on a capacity, capability, and product assessment. This includes analysis of the key advantages in the market, future development plans, and key partnerships. The OTT business messaging Competitor Leaderboard includes the following key vendors: Bird Cequens Clickatell CM.com Comviva GMS Gupshup Infobip LINK Mobility Mitto Monty Mobile Route Mobile Soprano Design Sinch Syniverse Tata Communications Twilio Vonage Cisco Webex Zenvia For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vz8tn7 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. US & Canada, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a comprehensive report from The Insight Partners, Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market Size and Forecasts (2020 - 2030), Global and Regional Share, Trends, and Growth Opportunity Analysis By Product (Kits & Reagents, Instruments, and Software & Services), Technology (Biosensor-Based, Immunodiagnostics, Molecular-Based Diagnostic Techniques, Clinical Biology, and Others), Application Type (Laboratory Testing and Point-of-Care Testing), Testing Type (Human Testing and Veterinary Testing), End User (Diagnostic Laboratories, Hospitals & Clinics, Research Institutes, Homecare Settings, and Others), and Geography, The infectious disease diagnostics market is expected to reach US$ 59.95 Million in 2030 from US$ 38.36 Million in 2022. The market is estimated to record a CAGR of 5.7% from 2022 to 2030 To explore the valuable insights in the Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market report, you can easily download a sample PDF of the report- https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPHE100001430/ The infectious disease diagnostics market is growing significantly with technological advancements in diagnostic tools. The infectious disease diagnostics market is segmented on the basis of product, technology, application type, testing type, and end user. The report runs an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, and future opportunities. Competitive Strategy and Development Key Players: A few major companies operating in the infectious disease diagnostics market are bioMerieux SA, DiaSorin SpA, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Danaher Corp, Trinity Biotech, and F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd Trending Topics: Molecular Diagnostics, Rapid Diagnostics, Wearable Health Devices, and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Diagnostics Global Headlines on Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market Singular Genomics Launches Next-Gen Sequencing Platform Thermo Fisher Scientific Launches PCR Kits for Infectious Disease Detection in India For Detailed Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market Insights, Visit: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/reports/infectious-disease-diagnostics-market Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market Overview of Report Findings Market Growth: The infectious disease diagnostics market is expected to reach US$ 59.95 Million in 2030 from US$ 38.36 Million in 2022. The market is estimated to record a CAGR of 5.7% from 2022 to 2030. The factors driving the market include the rising prevalence of infectious diseases globally and the increasing application of diagnostics in veterinary infectious diseases. However, an inadequate reimbursement scenario hinders market growth. Technological Advancements in Diagnostic Tools: The emergence of sophisticated diagnostic technologies has provided a significant boost to the infectious disease diagnostics market. New technologies such as molecular diagnostics, PCR (i.e., polymerase chain reaction), point-of-care testing, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) facilitate more precise, quicker, and affordable identification of infectious diseases. These new technologies are revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of infections. Molecular diagnostics: PCR and nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) have made a difference in diagnostics, owing to their ability to provide highly sensitive and specific detection of pathogens. Molecular diagnostics aids in the early detection of diseases and improved patient management. In September 2024, QIAGEN introduced the QIAcuityDx digital PCR system for clinical testing in oncology. Point-of-care testing (POCT): As the need for quicker results increases, point-of-care diagnostic testing has emerged as a major force. POCT enables quick diagnosis in remote locations and emergency departments, thus enhancing patient outcomes. In June 2023, Sysmex launched a point-of-care testing system for the European market to detect antimicrobial susceptibility in just 30 minutes. Next-generation sequencing (NGS): NGS technologies make it possible to identify pathogens at the genetic level, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, particularly for complicated infectious diseases. NGS plays an important role in the research on viral mutations and new infections. In February, Roche revealed its proprietary sequencing by expansion (SBX) technology, defining a new category of next-generation sequencing. Rising Incidence of Infectious Diseases: The elevating cases of infectious diseases worldwide is a significant booster for the infectious disease diagnostics market. The global increase in antimicrobial resistance is another factor bolstering the market. Proper diagnostics are crucial in identifying the resistance patterns of infectious pathogens to decide on proper treatment regimens. Malaria, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis are still prevalent health issues in low- and middle-income countries. According to the World Health Organizations (WHO) new report on tuberculosis, approximately 8.2 million people were newly diagnosed with TB in 2023, which was the highest number recorded since WHO began global TB monitoring in 1995. The growing prevalence of infectious diseases has led to the development of new diagnostic products and services, which further raises the demand for infectious disease diagnostics products. For instance, as per the WHO 2022, cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are on the rise, with an estimate of over 1 million STDs being contracted daily worldwide, further driving the need for effective diagnostics. Geographical Insights: In 2022, North America led the market with a substantial revenue share, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific, respectively. Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR in the infectious disease diagnostics market during the forecast period. Stay Updated on The Latest Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market Trends: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPHE100001430/ Market Segmentation The infectious disease diagnostics market, by product, is segmented into kits and reagents, instruments, and software and services. In 2022, the kits and reagents segment held the largest share of the market. The software & services segment is expected to record the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. The infectious disease diagnostics market, by technology, is segmented into biosensor-based, immunodiagnostics, molecular-based diagnostics, clinical biology, and others. In 2022, the molecular-based diagnostics segment held the largest share of the market. Moreover, it is expected to record the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. The infectious disease diagnostics market, by application type, is segmented into point-of-care testing and laboratory testing. In 2022, the laboratory testing segment held a larger share of the market. Further, the point-of-care testing segment is expected to record a higher CAGR during the forecast period. The infectious disease diagnostics market, by testing type, is segmented into human testing and veterinary testing. In 2022, the human testing segment held a larger share of the market. However, the veterinary testing segment is expected to register a higher CAGR during the forecast period. The infectious disease diagnostics market, by end user, is segmented into diagnostic laboratories, hospitals and clinics, research institutes, homecare settings, and others. In 2022, the diagnostic laboratories segment held the largest share of the market, and the same segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The infectious disease diagnostics market is segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and South and Central America. Purchase Premium Copy of Global Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market Size and Growth Report (2022-2030) at: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/buy/TIPHE100001430/ Conclusion The market for Infectious Disease Diagnostics is anticipated to grow significantly during the forecast period owing to several interrelated trends and causes. The increasing prevalence of infectious diseases, worsening due to global health issues, analysts stress, highlights the urgent need for practical microbial identification tools. The significance of prompt and precise microbial identification in public health has been underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic, boosting the investment in diagnostic systems. The field of microbial identification is changing due to technological improvements, especially in molecular and genomic approaches. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing significantly impact clinical outcomes and patient care, which improve accuracy and shorten time-to-result. Another significant trend is using AI and machine learning in data analysis, which enhances laboratory workflow automation and diagnostic accuracy. Regulatory constraints on businesses also drive demand to implement strong microbiological testing procedures in pharmaceuticals and food safety sectors. It is anticipated that fresh and creative solutions will surface as funding for research and development rises. The market for Infectious Disease Diagnostics has a bright future thanks to expansion prospects fueled by regulatory compliance, technical breakthroughs, and increased public health awareness. The report from The Insight Partners provides several stakeholdersincluding manufacturers and end userswith valuable insights to successfully navigate this evolving market landscape and unlock new opportunities. Related Reports- About Us: The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials. Contact Us: If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us: Contact Person: Ankit Mathur E-mail: ankit.mathur@theinsightpartners.com Phone: +1-646-491-9876 Press Release- https://www.theinsightpartners.com/pr/infectious-disease-diagnostics-market ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF PARK STREET A/S In accordance with article 6.2 of the articles of association, the annual general meeting of Park Street A/S (the "Company") is hereby called to be held on 28 April 2025, at 2:00 p.m. (Danish time) The general meeting will be held at the following address: Amaliegade 6, 2. Tv, 1256 Kbenhavn K AGENDA The board of directors has prepared the following agenda: 1. Board of directors' report on the Company's activities in the past year. 2. Presentation and approval of the audited annual report. 3. Board of directors' proposed resolution on the appropriation of profit or covering of loss according to the approved annual report. 4. Presentation of and advisory vote of the remuneration report. 5. Proposals from the board of directors or shareholders to reduce the share capital by annulment of 1,629,459 A shares and 12,164,865 B shares 6. Election of members to the board of directors. 7. Election of auditors. 8. Authorisation to the chair of the meeting 9. Any other business Item 1 Board of directors' report on the Company's activities the past year The board of directors proposes that the general meeting takes note of the board of directors' report on the Company's activities in the past year. Item 2 Presentation and approval of the annual report The board of directors proposes that the audited annual report for the financial year 2024 is approved. The annual report for 2024 is available on the Company's website: www.psnas.com. Item 3 Proposed resolution on appropriation of profit or covering of loss The board of directors proposes that the results are transferred to the financial year 2025 in accordance with the approved annual report. Item 4 Presentation and advisory vote on the remuneration report The Company has prepared a remuneration report for the financial year of 2024. The board of directors note that the remuneration report has been prepared in accordance with applicable law and the recommendations for corporate governance. The remuneration report 2024 provides an overview of the total remuneration paid or owed to the board of directors and the executive management with respect to the financial year 2024. The remuneration report is available on the Company's website: www.psnas.com. The board of directors proposes that the remuneration report for the financial year 2024 is approved by the general meeting. Item 5 Proposal to reduce the share capital by annulment of 1,629,459 A shares and 12,164,865 B shares As at today, the Company's share capital amounts to a nominal value of DKK 57,175,572 divided into 12,827,637 class A shares of DKK 1.00 each and 44,347,935 class B shares of DKK 1.00 each. The board of directors proposes to reduce the Company's share capital with a nominal amount of DKK 13,794,324 by distribution to the shareholders in accordance with section 188(1)(ii) of the Danish Companies Act and at par rate. The share capital reduction shall be made by annulment of the treasury shares owned by the Company as at the date of this notice, being 1,629,459 A shares and 12,164,865 B shares. The treasury shares have been acquired in accordance with the buy-back programs launched on 14 September 2022 and 28 February 2024 respectively. The board of directors note that if the general meeting adopts the resolution to reduce the share capital, the resolution will be published in the IT system of the Danish Business Authority (Erhvervsstyrelsen) in accordance with section 192(1)(ii) of the Danish Companies Act, requesting the Company's creditors to file any claims against the Company within a time-limit of four weeks. After expiry of the creditors' time-limit for the filing of claims, the board of directors will then be able to implement the capital reduction as adopted by the general meeting if this would still be deemed reasonable and in compliance with the Danish Companies Act. As a result of the proposed resolution, the board of directors proposed that article 3.1 of the articles of association be amended to the following complete wording, subject to the share capital being implemented following the 4 weeks' time-limit for the creditors to file claims: "3.1 The Company's share capital is DKK 43,381,248 divided into DKK 11,198,178 class A shares of DKK 1.00 each or multiples thereof and DKK 32,183,070 class B shares of DKK 1.00 or multiples thereof. The share capital is fully paid up." Item 6 Election of board of directors Pursuant to section 13.1 of the Company's articles of association, the general meeting elects 3-6 members to the board of directors. Elected members are chosen for a period of one year at a time. Therefore, the elected period for any such member expires on the annual general meeting. Re-election is possible. The board of directors proposes that Anita Nassar, Pradeep Pattem, Ohene Aku Kwapong and Claes Peter Rading, and Medha Pattem are re-elected, and that Dhruv Pattem is elected as new member of the board of directors. Information on all of the board candidates' may be found on the company's website as of the date of this notice. Item 7 Election of auditors In accordance with the recommendation from the audit committee, the board of directors proposes that PricewaterhouseCoopers Statsautoriseret Revisionspartnerselskab, CVR no. 33771231 (PwC) is reelected as the Company's auditor. The audit committee has confirmed that the committee has not been influenced by any third party and that the committee has not been subject to any agreements restricting the general meeting's election of auditors to certain categories or lists of auditors or auditing firms. Item 8 Authorisation to the chair of the meeting The board of directors proposes that the chair of the general meeting is authorised (with delegation powers) with the application and registration to the Danish Business Authority (Erhvervsstyrelsen) for any resolutions passed, including to make any such amendments and additions to the resolutions, which may be necessary in connection with the registration. Documents available at the Company's office and website The following documents will no later than on 4 April 2025 be made available for the shareholders' inspection at the Company's website or its address: (i) this notice, including the agenda and the complete proposals (included in this notice), (ii) the total number of shares and voting rights as at the date of this notice (included in this notice), (iii) the audited annual report for the financial year 2024, (iv) the remuneration report for the financial year 2024, (v) information and background of candidates up for election to the board of directors, and (vi) proxy and postal vote forms. Majority requirements The proposals under the agenda's items 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 may be adopted with a simple majority. The proposal under the agenda's item 5 may be adopted by two-thirds of the voting rights and share capital represented at the general meeting voting in favour. The vote for the remuneration report under the agenda's item 4 is solely advisory. Postal vote Shareholders may choose to vote by postal vote prior to the holding of the general meeting. As at the date of this notice, postal voting forms will be available at the Company's website www.psnas.com. Postal votes may be submitted via the PSN shareholder portal on the Company's website www.psnas.com or by email to GF@computershare.dk or by sending the postal vote by post to Computershare A/S, Lottenborgvej 26 D, 1. floor, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark. Postal votes must be received by the Company or Computershare A/S no later than on Friday, 25 April 2025 at 12:00 p.m. (noon) (Danish Time). Proxy Shareholders may attend the general meeting by proxy in which the shareholders may choose to elect the board of directors or any other named third party as their proxy. As at the date of this notice, proxy forms will be available at the Company's website: www.psnas.com. Proxies must be submitted via the PSN shareholder portal on the Company's website: www.psnas.com or by email to GF@computershare.dk or by sending the signed proxy to Computershare A/S, Lottenborgvej 26 D, 1. floor, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark. In case of a third party proxy, the shareholder must request an admission card and voting card in the name of such third party. In addition, the proxy must provide proof of his or her right to attend the general meeting by presenting documentation for the application for registration and by presenting a written and dated proxy form. Proxies granted to the board of directors must be proxies to cast votes only in accordance with the board of directors' recommendations or according to a proxy form. Proxies must be received by the Company or Computershare A/S no later than on Thursday, 24 April 2025 at 11:59 p.m. (Danish time). Admission cards, voting cards and record date The right to attend and vote at the general meeting is granted to shareholders who are recorded in the register of shareholders no later than one week prior to the holding of the general meeting (the "Record Date"), or shareholders who no later than on this date have notified and substantiated the acquisition of shares with the purpose of being recorded in the Company's register of shareholders. Shareholders, or shareholders' proxies, must request for admission cards no later than on Thursday, 24 April 2025 at 11:59 p.m. (Danish time). Admission cards for the annual general meeting will be sent electronically by email to the email address stated in the PSN shareholders portal at registration. The admission card must be presented at the general meeting either electronically on a smartphone/tablet or in printed form. Shareholders having requested admission cards without specifying their email address may pick up their admission cards at the entrance to the general meeting upon presentation of a valid ID. Voting cards will be handed out at the access control at the general meeting. The Record Date is Monday, 21 April 2025. Questions from the shareholders Submissions prior to the general meeting Should shareholders have submissions to individual items on the agenda, they are encouraged to send these before the general meeting is held to ease the holding of the general meeting. Submissions and questions may be sent per email to parkstreet@parkstreet.dk no later than on Thursday, 24 April 2025 at 11:59 p.m. (Danish Time). Submissions at the general meeting After the presentation of each item on the agenda it will be possible to submit questions and discuss the proposals. The management will, on the request of any shareholder, disclose any information available on matters of importance to the assessment of the annual report or the Company's general position, to the extent this may happen without any significant detrimental effect on the Company. Share capital and voting rights The Company's share capital amounts to a nominal value of DKK 57,175,572, divided into DKK 12,827,637 class A-shares of DKK 1.00 each or multiples thereof and DKK 44,347,935 class B-shares of DKK 1.00 or multiples thereof. Each share of DKK 1.00 carries one vote. Thus, the class A-shares and the class B-shares carry the same voting rights. The Company holds 1,629,459 class A treasury shares and 12,164,865 class B treasury shares as at the date of the notice convening the general meeting. Voting rights cannot be exercised in relation to these treasury shares. Hence, the total number of voting rights of the Company that may be exercised at the general meeting amounts to 43,381,248. Copenhagen, 4 April 2025 Park Street A/S board of directors Attachment AUSTIN, Texas, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hundreds of local businesses, farmers and industry advocates will gather at the Texas Capitol on Monday, April 7 to testify against Senate Bill 3 and House Bill 28, sending a clear message that this legislation would devastate the states thriving hemp industry. The Texas Hemp Business Council is calling on state legislators in the Texas House of Representatives to reject SB3 and HB28 during Mondays public hearing, being held by the Texas House Committee on State Affairs. We are urging the Texas House to carefully consider the consequences of SB3 and HB28 on the tens of thousands of small businesses, farmers and consumers who rely on the hemp industry, said Cynthia Cabrera, president of the Texas Hemp Business Council and chief strategy officer at Hometown Hero. Texas has built a thriving hemp market that provides jobs, tax revenue and access to safe, legal products for responsible adults. Restrictive measures risk stifling innovation, driving businesses out of state, and limiting consumer choice. We stand ready to work with lawmakers to ensure common-sense regulation that balances public safety with economic opportunity. The future of Texas hemp is at stake, lets get it right. SB3 Threatens Jobs, Small Businesses and Consumer Choice A newly released economic report, Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids in the Lone Star State: A Revisit of the Economic Impact Analysis of Cannabinoid Retail in Texas,* reveals that the hemp industry is a major contributor to the Texas economy, generating $5.5 billion in annual sales with an estimated tax revenue of $268 million. Developed by Whitney Economics, the report also found that proposed state regulations, including Texas SB3, which seeks to ban all hemp-derived THC products, could cost the industry $7.5 billion and 40,201 jobs, according to the latest data. Other findings include: Retail Growth : In 2025, retail revenue reached $4.3 billion, up from $3.3 billion in 2023, highlighting sustained consumer demand. : In 2025, retail revenue reached $4.3 billion, up from $3.3 billion in 2023, highlighting sustained consumer demand. Industry Expansion : Total employment in the hemp industry grew to 53,300 jobs in 2025, an increase of 3,200 from 50,100 in 2023. : Total employment in the hemp industry grew to 53,300 jobs in 2025, an increase of 3,200 from 50,100 in 2023. Higher Pay: Industry-wide wages rose to $2.1 billion in 2025, up from $1.6 billion in 2023, with hourly pay increasing across all sectors. Texans Overwhelmingly Support Regulated Hemp, Not a Ban A recent survey by Baselice & Associates, Inc.** found that 68% of likely Texas voters support keeping hemp-derived consumable THC legal, provided it is regulated with measures like age restrictions and warning labels. In contrast, only 20% favor an outright ban. Other findings include: Support for legalization is strongest among younger voters, with 76% of those aged 18-34 in favor, compared to 55% of senior citizens. Republican voters favor regulation over prohibition by a two-to-one margin (57% vs. 29%), while Democrats overwhelmingly support keeping THC legal (80% vs. 10%). Independents align closely with the statewide average (72% vs. 17%). A Call for Common-Sense Regulation, Not Prohibition Texas law (HB1325 passed in 2019) already provides essential hemp oversight, including comprehensive testing, licensing, labeling requirements and certificates of analysis. Building on this foundation, THBC supports additional measures to further enhance safety and industry standards, including: Limiting sales to individuals 21 and older (except for veterans). Child-resistant packaging for consumer safety. Retail setbacks from schools for adult-use products. Hemp businesses across Texas are standing together because this isnt just about one industry, its about livelihoods, consumer rights and the future of entrepreneurship in our state, added Cabrera. Texas deserves better than a ban. Likewise, we strongly oppose HB28, which would further harm small businesses and limit consumer choice. We call on legislators to stand with Texans, not against them, and vote no on both SB3 and HB28. How to Testify Texas residents who wish to electronically submit comments on SB3 and HB28 without testifying in person can do so after the public hearing is adjourned by visiting: https://comments.house.texas.gov/home?c=c450. For those persons who wish to testify in-person, information on witness registration can be found here: https://mytxlegis.capitol.texas.gov/HWRSPublic/About.aspx. About the Texas Hemp Business Council The Texas Hemp Business Council is an industry organization dedicated to promoting the hemp-based cannabinoid industry in Texas, while advocating for consumer safety, education and stakeholder engagement. More information can be found by visiting http://www.texashempbusinesscouncil.com. About Hometown Hero Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Hometown Hero manufactures and distributes a variety of hemp-derived products, such as Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 THC, CBD, CBDA + CBGA, among others. Founded in 2015 by Lukas Gilkey and Lewis Hamer, the company donates a portion of all proceeds to various charities and organizations that support veterans. Hometown Hero is also a founding member of the Texas Hemp Business Council. For more information, visit https://hometownhero.com/ or follow the brand on Twitter and Instagram @HometownHeroATX. * Conducted over six weeks in early 2025, the survey by Whitney Economics reached over 4,500 businesses, representing about 53% of Texas' estimated 8,500 hemp-related businesses. ** The survey, conducted by Baselice & Associates, Inc. from March 10-12, 2025, included 600 likely voters and had a margin of error of 4.0%. Media Contacts: Natalie Mu/George Medici PondelWilkinson 310.279.5980 nmu@pondel.com gmedici@pondel.com Dublin, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "European Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers - Industry Report" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. A quick glance of this Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers (European) report will tell you the companies that have a declining financial rating, and those that have shown good sales growth. Each of the largest 547 companies is meticulously scrutinised in an individual assessment and analysed using the most up-to-date and current financial data. The analysis conducted in the Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers (European) report is ideal for anyone wanting to: Identify the market leaders Spot companies heading for failure Seek out the most attractive acquisition opportunities Analyse industry trends Benchmark their own financial performance Every business is examined on the following features: A graphical assessment and presentation of a company's financial performance An independent financial valuation Acquisition attractiveness - outlining a firm's takeover attractiveness Four year assessment of the profit/loss and balance sheet A written summary highlighting key performance issues Subsequently, you will receive a thorough 100-page market analysis highlighting the latest changes in the Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers (European) market. This section includes: Best Trading Partners Sales Growth Analysis Profit Analysis Market Size Rankings You can utilise the findings within this report to assess the attractiveness of potential acquisitions, gain a better understanding of the market, and identify sound companies with whom to trade. Key Topics Covered: The report is split into two sections and uses both a written and graphical analysis - analysing the 547 largest Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers companies. The Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers (European) report contains the most-up-to-date financial data and the publisher applies these figures to create their unique and authoritative analysis. The first section thoroughly scrutinises the market and this section includes the following: Best Trading Partners: These are companies that are winning in both sales and financial strength Sales Growth Analysis: This section reviews both the fastest growing and fastest shrinking company Profit Analysis - Analysis of gross profit and Pre-tax Profitover the last ten years and a profitability summary comparing profits in the industry against small, medium and large companies Market Size: Based on the largest 547 companies, this is a comparison between last year's market size and the most current figure Rankings: The top 50 companies ranked by: Market Share, Sales Growth, Gross Profit and Pre-tax Profit The next section focuses on company analysis and provides an in-depth analysis of the largest companies within the Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers (European) industry. Each business is analysed using the publisher's unique model and culminates in the production of 'The Chart'. This model uses a series of charts to graphically analyse an individual company and measure its ability to achieve sales growth while maintaining financial strength. 'The Chart' is a quick and dependable method of analysing a company's financial well-being. It's simple to understand: a rising line is good news and a falling line is bad news. Therefore, this company analysis will tell you if a company is: Strong or heading for failure Maximising their investments Becoming burdened by debt Getting the most from their resources The Pharmaceuticals Manufacturers (European) analysis also provides you with full business name and address, name and ages of directors and registration address. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/y4rmtv About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. SOFIA, Bulgaria, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Live Markets has officially announced the launch of LMGX, a blockchain-powered digital asset designed to drive financial and trading innovation. Operating under the esteemed LM Group umbrella, Live Markets benefits from the industry leadership and long-standing credibility of a financial powerhouse that has shaped the online trading and digital asset domains for over a decade. Live Markets, as the licensed entity responsible for the expansion and regulatory oversight of LMGX, is taking a bold step forward in blockchain-powered finance. Backed by LM Groups robust financial infrastructure and extensive market presence, Live Markets operates at the intersection of traditional finance and blockchain technology. Live Markets is not merely introducing another token. We are advancing a vision that redefines digital finance. LMGX is a financial instrument designed to provide a clear pathway from blockchain utility to structured equity. This launch is not just a product of innovation but of strategic foresight, ensuring that our investors have a real stake in the future of finance, said a spokesperson from Live Markets. LMGX is a utility token designed to enhance transactions within the LM Group ecosystem. Built on blockchain technology, it offers lower fees and faster processing for seamless transactions, smart contract automation to reduce risk and increase efficiency, enhanced security to ensure transparency and fraud protection, and scalability for smooth integration across multiple platforms, such as online gaming. With a legacy of trust and success through LMFX and Crypto LMFX, LM Group has demonstrated stability, resilience, and industry leadership. This credibility is a crucial factor in ensuring the success of LMGX, as the token integrates into an ecosystem already trusted by traders, investors, and institutions worldwide. The launch of LMGX is a calculated evolution in the companys growth strategy that is setting the foundation for an asset that will transform from a digital token into a regulated financial instrument. The LMGX Initial Coin Offering (ICO), scheduled from March to May 2025, will provide early investors access to the token, engineered for immediate utility and long-term financial transformation. The defining moment for LMGX, however, will come in 2027, when the Security Token Offering (STO) will allow LMGX holders to convert their tokens into equity shares, a first-of-its-kind transition for the company and a major milestone in digital asset history. In 2027, we are introducing a new financial paradigmone where blockchain assets seamlessly integrate with institutional finance. The LMGX STO will mark a shift in how digital investments evolve, offering our token holders the ability to transition from cryptocurrency investors to equity stakeholders. This is the natural evolution of digital finance, and Live Markets is leading the way, the spokesperson stated. Unlike speculative cryptocurrencies that thrive on hype, LMGX is rooted in tangible functionality. Built on Ethereums secure and scalable blockchain, it facilitates low-cost transactions, high-speed processing, and secure interactions across financial and trading platforms. Token holders will have access to personalized loyalty programs, staking rewards, and seamless investment opportunities, enhancing engagement while ensuring the long-term stability of the ecosystem. The ICO framework reflects Live Markets commitment to fairness and transparency, eliminating private sales to ensure an equitable distribution model. Investors will acquire LMGX at a fixed rate of 1 LMGX = 1 USDC, with a total supply capped at 100 million tokens. Forty percent of the supply (i.e., 40,000,000 LMGX) will be allocated to the ICO, while the remainder will be distributed across liquidity reserves, product development, compliance funding, and operational expansion. The spokesperson stated, The token will first be listed on Crypto LMFX, providing immediate accessibility, before rolling out across major external exchanges to enhance liquidity and market presence. Regulatory groundwork for the STO is already underway, ensuring compliance with international financial regulations and reinforcing investor confidence in Live Markets' long-term stability. Unlike many blockchain projects that operate in legal gray areas, Live Markets has structured LMGX with full regulatory oversight, ensuring that its transition to an equity-backed instrument aligns with global financial standards. With the ICO commencing in March 2025, Live Markets is inviting investors, institutions, and blockchain visionaries to take part in a transformative financial initiative, one that will bridge decentralized finance with structured investment frameworks. To participate in the LMGX ICO, visit lmgxtoken.com . For more information, follow us on our socials: X , Discord , Telegram , Instagram , and Facebook . For media inquiries, please contact: Kevin Scott Head of Media & Partnerships kevin.scott@lmgxtoken.com About Live Markets Live Markets is the licensed entity responsible for the regulatory oversight and expansion of Crypto LMFX and the LMGX Token. Operating under LM Group, a global financial powerhouse known for its industry-leading foreign exchange brokerage LMFX and rapidly expanding digital asset exchange Crypto LMFX, Live Markets is bringing evolution to blockchain-driven finance. Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Live Markets. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector--including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining--complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an "as-is" basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/74ffd7c2-5319-4df4-9929-c53841121a76 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aad4c828-6792-4bc4-823a-e75ea37c59fb Dublin, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Vietnam Two-Wheeler Tire Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast and Opportunities, 2020-2030F" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Vietnam Two-Wheeler Tire Market was valued at USD 1.96 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 2.64 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 5.11% The Vietnam Two-Wheeler Tire Market is experiencing steady growth due to the increasing demand for motorcycles, which are a primary mode of transportation in the country. For instance, Vietnam's motorcycle market is seeing a modest recovery in 2024, with year-to-date sales reaching 2.35 million units, up by 1.9%. The first half saw a decline of 1.4%, but sales improved in the latter part of the year. The scooter segment grew by 1.8%, while the motorcycle segment saw a 13% rise. Electric vehicle (EV) sales remain sluggish, especially in the L3 category. Honda and Yamaha maintain their dominance, while newer brands like Pega and Yadea are gaining traction. Vinfast experienced a notable decline of 56.8%. The market is driven by urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the need for affordable and efficient transportation solutions. Motorcycles are especially popular in urban and rural areas due to their flexibility and cost-effectiveness. The growing focus on durable and fuel-efficient tires contributes to market expansion. Local manufacturers and global players are increasingly competing to offer high-quality tires, while the aftermarket segment also thrives due to the need for tire replacements. The market is expected to continue growing as two-wheeler ownership rises and infrastructure improves across the nation. Shift Toward Electric Two-Wheelers The growing popularity of electric two-wheelers in Vietnam is a key trend in the tire market. As environmental concerns rise, electric motorcycles and scooters are becoming an attractive alternative to traditional petrol-powered vehicles. The government's initiatives to promote electric mobility, such as subsidies and tax incentives, are further fueling this trend. As more consumers and businesses adopt electric two-wheelers, the demand for tires compatible with electric vehicles is increasing. These tires need to cater to the specific requirements of electric motorcycles, such as higher load-bearing capacity and improved rolling resistance for better energy efficiency. The expansion of electric two-wheeler models, alongside the infrastructure to support them, will create new opportunities for tire manufacturers to diversify their product offerings. Integration of Smart Tire Technologies The trend towards smart tires is gaining momentum in the Vietnamese market. Tires equipped with sensors that monitor tire pressure, temperature, and tread wear are becoming increasingly popular. These smart tires offer real-time data to riders and fleet operators, improving safety and enhancing tire performance. This trend is particularly evident in the growing commercial two-wheeler segment, where delivery services and ride-sharing platforms require tires that can provide detailed information on their condition. Consumers are becoming more tech-savvy and are increasingly interested in solutions that enhance convenience, safety, and performance. As such, the integration of smart tire technologies will be crucial in meeting the evolving needs of the market Focus on Sustainability and Eco-friendly Tires Sustainability has become a significant trend in the two-wheeler tire market in Vietnam. Consumers and businesses alike are increasingly concerned with the environmental impact of tire production and disposal. This has led to the rise of eco-friendly tires made from sustainable materials, such as recycled rubber or biodegradable compounds. Manufacturers are also exploring ways to reduce carbon emissions during tire production processes. Tires with lower rolling resistance, which improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, are becoming more popular, particularly for electric vehicles. This trend aligns with the global push for green technologies and the local demand for environmentally responsible products, driving innovation in the sector. Segmental Insights Propulsion Type Insights The Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) segment dominated the Vietnam Two-Wheeler Tire Market due to the country's strong reliance on motorcycles powered by traditional fuel engines. Motorcycles with ICEs remain the most common mode of transportation, particularly in urban and rural areas, owing to their affordability, ease of maintenance, and fuel efficiency. The widespread use of ICE-powered motorcycles is driven by the need for cost-effective mobility solutions in a country with growing urban populations and infrastructure development. These motorcycles are widely utilized for commuting, logistics, and even as a means of livelihood, further cementing their dominance in the market. The long-established presence of ICE motorcycles in Vietnam ensures a consistent demand for replacement tires, fueling the growth of the ICE segment. ICE motorcycles typically require a diverse range of tire types, from standard tires to specialized high-performance options, giving manufacturers the opportunity to cater to a broad market. While electric motorcycles are emerging, their market share is still small compared to ICE-powered models, as the infrastructure and adoption of electric vehicles are still in the early stages of development in Vietnam. The cost-effectiveness and ease of refueling ICE motorcycles remain a significant advantage over electric counterparts, especially in rural areas where charging stations are less prevalent. The maintenance and servicing of ICE motorcycles are also well-established, making them the go-to choice for the majority of the population. Therefore, the ICE segment continues to dominate the two-wheeler tire market in Vietnam, with significant demand for tires driven by widespread motorcycle usage. Region Insights Southern Vietnam dominated the Two-Wheeler Tire Market due to its robust economic growth, high urbanization rates, and the concentration of industrial and commercial activities in the region. Ho Chi Minh City, the country's largest city and economic hub, plays a pivotal role in driving motorcycle sales and, consequently, tire demand. The city's extensive transportation network and heavy reliance on motorcycles for both personal and business use contribute to the region's dominance in the market. Motorcycles, particularly those with internal combustion engines (ICE), are essential for navigating the city's traffic and dense urban areas, making them the preferred mode of transportation. Southern Vietnam is a key center for logistics, manufacturing, and tourism, sectors that rely heavily on motorcycles for efficient transport of goods and people. The region's growing middle class and increasing disposable income further fuel the demand for two-wheelers, as more people can afford motorcycles for commuting. This also leads to a rise in tire replacement and aftermarket demand, reinforcing the market's growth. Southern Vietnam benefits from a well-established infrastructure for tire distribution and servicing, which supports the continuous demand for high-quality two-wheeler tires. The presence of both local manufacturers and international brands in this region ensures a wide variety of tire options, meeting the diverse needs of motorcycle owners. As the region's economy continues to thrive, the dominance of Southern Vietnam in the two-wheeler tire market is set to persist, driven by its economic vibrancy, urbanization, and growing motorcycle ownership. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 82 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $1.96 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $2.64 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 5.1% Regions Covered Vietnam Report Scope: Key Market Players Michelin Vietnam Company Limited Bridgestone Tire Sales Viet Nam Limited Pirelli Tyre S.p.A Toyo Tire Corporation The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company KUMHO TIRE VIETNAM CO., LTD The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. Hankook Tire & Technology Co., Ltd. Maxxis International Sailun Tires Vietnam Two-Wheeler Tire Market, By Vehicle Type: Motorcycle Moped Scooter Vietnam Two-Wheeler Tire Market, By Sales Channel: OEM Replacement Vietnam Two-Wheeler Tire Market, By Tire Construction Type: Radial Bias Vietnam Two-Wheeler Tire Market, By Propulsion Type: ICE Electric Others Vietnam Two-Wheeler Tire Market, By Region: Northern Central Southern For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ly6yys About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Washington, D.C., April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PAIRMining As the cryptocurrency market explodes, more and more investors are looking for easier and lower-cost ways to mine. To meet this demand, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump launched American Bitcoin and worked with Hut 8, a leading global Bitcoin mining company, to provide users with a more efficient mining platform. In this process, PAIRMining has become a pioneer in industry change. With its innovative cloud mining model, every investor can overcome the high threshold of traditional mining and easily start their own path to digital wealth. Get to know PAIRMiner : A secure FCA regulated platform PAIRMiner is a platform regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which ensures the security and compliance of the platform. As a world-leading cloud mining platform, PAIRMiner not only provides users with a mining method that does not require high upfront investment, but also provides investors with additional protection through strict supervision, ensuring that every investment is made in a transparent and trustworthy environment. How to Earn Passive Income Every Day with PAIRMiner? 1. Register an account to receive rewards PAIR Miner provides registration rewards for new users. Just complete the account registration and you can immediately get $150. This reward not only reduces the initial investment cost, but also provides users with the opportunity to try out the platform 2. Choose the right mining plan Choose a mining plan that suits you based on your personal investment preferences. PAIRMiner offers a variety of flexible plan options, whether you are a novice or an experienced investor, you can find the most suitable plan. For example: Contract Price Time (days) Daily income Total income Settlement Time 150$ 1 1.11$ 1.11$ 24 h 450$ 3 8.78$ 26.33$ 24 h 1150$ 5 24.15$ 409.95$ 24 h 5200$ 10 120.12$ 1201.1$ 24 h 22800$ 45 611.04$ 27496.8$ 24 h Why choose PAIRMiner? No hardware investment required: PAIRMiner adopts the cloud mining model, and users can easily participate in Bitcoin mining without purchasing expensive mining hardware. Regulated platform: As a platform regulated by the FCA, PAIRMiner provides investors with a safe and reliable mining environment to ensure that all investments are subject to regulatory compliance. Low threshold, simple operation: PAIRMiner's operation interface is intuitive and easy to understand, and anyone can easily get started and enjoy the rich returns brought by digital currency. Conclusion As the cryptocurrency market continues to grow, more investors are looking for more efficient and simpler ways to mine. PAIRMiner, with its innovative cloud mining model and regulated platform advantages, provides a convenient and secure investment option for global users. The future mining market will become more approachable, and any investor can easily step into the world of digital wealth. Join PAIRMiner now, start your digital currency mining journey, and move towards a future of wealth freedom! To learn more, please visit the official website: https://pairminer.net Company email: info@pairminer.com Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. TORONTO and HAIFA, Israel, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NurExone Biologic Inc. (TSXV: NRX, OTCQB: NRXBF, Germany: J90) (NurExone or the Company) is pleased to announce that, subject to TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) approval, it has closed a non-brokered private placement of 3,543,238 units (Units) at a price of C$0.65 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of C$2,303,105 (the Offering). The Company intends to use the proceeds of the Offering for working capital, ExoTops establishment of a U.S. production facility and an uplisting to a major U.S. exchange, subject to requisite regulatory approval. CEO Dr. Lior Shaltiel commented, We sincerely appreciate the strong support from our investors. Our preclinical results and growing analyst recognition underscore the strength of our science and the credibility of our strategy and team. Our momentum is translating into tangible investor confidence, enabling us to secure funding and accelerate our progress towards clinical and commercial breakthroughs in regenerative medicine. CFO Eran Ovadya added: This successful financing marks a significant milestone for NurExone as we expand our operational footprint and strengthen our financial position. The proceeds will be instrumental in supporting our strategic initiatives, including the establishment of a U.S. facility, which will enhance our presence in key markets and further align us with our long-term growth objectives and intent to uplist to a major U.S. exchange. Terms of the Offering Each Unit consisted of (i) one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a Common Share), and (ii) one Common Share purchase warrant (each, a Warrant). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at a price of C$0.85 per Common Share for a period of 36 months. Closing of the Offering is subject to receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including TSXV, and all securities issued under the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the closing of the Offering and applicable U.S. legends. About NurExone NurExone Biologic Inc. is a TSXV, OTCQB and Frankfurt-listed biotech company focused on developing regenerative exosome-based therapies for central nervous system injuries. Its lead product, ExoPTEN, has demonstrated strong preclinical data supporting clinical potential in treating acute spinal cord and optic nerve injury, both multi-billion-dollar marketsi. Regulatory milestones, including Orphan Drug Designation, facilitate the roadmap towards clinical trials in the U.S. and Europe. Commercially, the Company is expected to offer solutions to companies interested in quality exosomes and minimally invasive targeted delivery systems for other indications. NurExone has established Exo-Top Inc., a U.S. subsidiary, to anchor its North American activity and growth strategy. For additional information and a brief interview, please watch Who is NurExone? , visit www.nurexone.com or follow NurExone on LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook , or YouTube . For more information, please contact: Dr. Lior Shaltiel Chief Executive Officer and Director Phone: +972-52-4803034 Email: info@nurexone.com Oak Hill Financial Inc. 2 Bloor Street, Suite 2900 Toronto, Ontario M4W 3E2 Investor Relations Canada Phone: +1-647-479-5803 Email: info@oakhillfinancial.ca Dr. Eva Reuter Investor Relations Germany Phone: +49-69-1532-5857 Email: e.reuter@dr-reuter.eu Allele Capital Partners Investor Relations U.S. Phone: +1 978-857-5075 Email: aeriksen@allelecapital.com FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains certain forward-looking statements that reflect the Companys current expectations and projections about its future results. Wherever possible, words such as may, will, should, could, expect, plan, intend, anticipate, believe, estimate, predict or potential or the negative or other variations of these words, or similar words or phrases, have been used to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements relating to: the Company completing the Offering on the terms indicated herein; the Company receiving all regulatory approvals; the use of proceeds from the Offering; the Company the Company advancing towards clinical and commercial breakthroughs in regenerative medicine; the Company enhancing its presence in key markets; the Companys plan to pursue an uplisting and the benefits thereof; and the NurExone platform technology offering novel solutions to drug companies interested in minimally invasive targeted drug delivery for other indications. These statements reflect managements current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management as at the date hereof. In developing the forward-looking statements in this press release, we have applied several material assumptions, including: the Company realizing on the benefits of exosomes; the Company will produce and supply exosomes for a wide range of applications; the ability of the Companys products to be used for patient treatment; the Company fulfilling its intended future plans and expectations; there being growing clinical demand for innovative treatments in spinal cord, optic nerve, and other therapeutic areas; the Company carrying out its pre-clinical trials and realizing upon the benefits of the pre-clinical trials; the Companys realizing upon the potential for exosome-loaded drugs in regenerating or repairing damaged nerves; the Company maintaining its ongoing commitment to using its ExoTherapy platform to advance the field of regenerative medicine and cell therapy applications; the Company will complete the Offering on the terms indicated herein; the Company will receive all regulatory approvals; the Company will use the proceeds from the Offering as outlined herein; the Company will have clinical and commercial breakthroughs in regenerative medicine; the Company will enhance its presence in key markets; the Company will uplist to a major U.S. exchange and realize on the benefits thereof; and the NurExone platform technology will offer novel solutions to drug companies interested in minimally invasive targeted drug delivery for other indications. Forward-looking statements involve significant risk, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to risks related to: the Companys early stage of development; lack of revenues to date; government regulation; market acceptance for its products; rapid technological change; dependence on key personnel; dependence on the Companys strategic partners; the fact that preclinical drug development is uncertain, and the drug product candidates of the Company may never advance to clinical trials; the fact that results of preclinical studies and early-stage clinical trials may not be predictive of the results of later stage clinical trials; the uncertain outcome, cost, and timing of product development activities, preclinical studies and clinical trials of the Company; the uncertain clinical development process, including the risk that clinical trials may not have an effective design or generate positive results; the inability to obtain or maintain regulatory approval of the drug product candidates of the Company; the introduction of competing drugs that are safer, more effective or less expensive than, or otherwise superior to, the drug product candidates of the Company; the initiation, conduct, and completion of preclinical studies and clinical trials may be delayed, adversely affected or impacted by unforeseen issues; the inability to obtain adequate financing; the inability to obtain or maintain intellectual property protection for the drug product candidates of the Company; risks that the Companys intellectual property and technology wont have the intended impact on the Company and/or its business; the Companys inability to carry out its pre-clinical trials and realize upon the stated benefits of the pre-clinical trials; the inability of the Company to realize on the benefits of exosomes; the inability of the Company to produce and/or supply exosomes for a wide range of applications; the inability of the Companys products to be used for patient treatment; there not being broader adoption in the field and/or cell therapy applications; the inability of the Company to fulfill its intended future plans and expectations; there not being growing clinical demand for innovative treatments in spinal cord, optic nerve, and/or other therapeutic areas; the inability of the Company to collaborate with pharma companies; the Companys inability to realize upon the stated potential for exosome-loaded drugs in regenerating or repairing damaged nerves; the Companys inability to maintain its ongoing commitment to using its ExoTherapy platform to advance the field of regenerative medicine and/or cell therapy applications; the Companys inability to expand into further studies; the Companys inability to complete the Offering on the terms indicated herein or at all; the Company will not receive all required regulatory approvals; the Company will not use the proceeds from the Offering as outlined herein; the Company will not have clinical and/or commercial breakthroughs in regenerative medicine; the Company will be unable to enhance its presence in key markets; the Company will not uplist to a major U.S. exchange and/or realize on the benefits thereof; the NurExone platform technology not offering novel solutions to drug companies interested in minimally invasive targeted drug delivery for other indications; and the risks discussed under the heading Risk Factors on pages 44 to 51 of the Companys Annual Information Form dated August 27, 2024, a copy of which is available under the Companys SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law. Neither TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. i Spinal cord injury, Glaucoma Dublin, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Trends in US Textile and Clothing Imports, 2025" report from Textiles Intelligence Ltd. has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This 2025 report contains analysis and insight into the USA's top ten foreign suppliers of textiles and clothing in 2024, along with more specific information on US imports of textiles alone and US imports of clothing alone. The report also includes an outlook for 2025 and beyond, and a statistical appendix containing data on exchange rates and US imports of cotton and man-made fibre baby garments, cotton coats, cotton dresses, cotton knitted shirts, cotton non-knitted (woven) shirts, cotton pile towels, cotton skirts, cotton trousers, cotton underwear, denim trousers, man-made fibre bras, man-made fibre coats, man-made fibre dresses, man-made fibre knitted shirts, man-made fibre skirts, man-made fibre trousers and wool coats. US imports of textiles and clothing rose in value in 2024 although they were only at their sixth highest level on record as the rise followed a steep decline in the previous year. In volume terms, however, US imports of textiles and clothing rose to a record high. Within the 2024 total, US imports of fabrics rose to a record high and US imports of made-up textiles rose to their second highest level on record. There were also rises in US imports of clothing and US imports of yarn, although imports of clothing were at their third lowest level since 2014 while imports of yarn were only at their tenth highest level on record. The average price of US textile and clothing imports fell in 2024 to a record low, reflecting the fact that the fall was the 12th in 13 years. The fall reflected a decline in the average price of US textile imports and a decline in the average price of US clothing imports. In terms of fibre type, man-made fibres continued to dominate US textile and apparel imports as a whole, and man-made fibre products accounted for the largest share of US apparel imports for the 11th consecutive year. China remained by far the USA's biggest textile and clothing supplier and, furthermore, US textile and clothing imports from China increased. There were also increases in US textile and clothing imports from several of the other nine supplying countries which ranked among the leading ten. The fastest increase in value terms was in US textile and clothing imports from Cambodia, followed by those from India, Vietnam, Pakistan, Indonesia and Bangladesh. By contrast, US textile and clothing imports from Italy and Mexico fell in value and plunged in volume while US textile and clothing imports from Turkey edged down in value but rose in volume. Who should buy this report? Manufacturers of fibres, textiles, clothing and chemicals Textile and clothing machinery manufacturers - spinning, weaving, knitting, sewing and import/export Textile and clothing brands and retailers like Adidas, H&M etc. Educational institutions like universities, fashion schools etc. Business consultancy firms Textile and clothing trade associations Government trade bodies Key Topics Covered: SUMMARY INTRODUCTION General trends in US textile and clothing imports General trends in US textile and clothing import prices General trends in US textile and clothing imports by supplying country in 2024 Influence of the US economy on imports Outlook for US textile and clothing imports in 2025 US IMPORTS OF TEXTILES AND CLOTHING BY MAIN CATEGORY: YARNS, FABRICS, APPAREL AND MADE-UP TEXTILES US IMPORTS OF TEXTILES AND CLOTHING BY FIBRE TYPE MAJOR SUPPLIERS OF US TEXTILE AND CLOTHING IMPORTS US textile and clothing imports from China US textile and clothing imports from Asian countries South Asia USMCA countries: Mexico and Canada CAFTA-DR and CBI countries European countries US IMPORTS OF TEXTILES General trends US imports of textiles by leading supplying countries US IMPORTS OF CLOTHING General trends US imports of clothing by leading supplying countries STATISTICAL APPENDIX For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/qjucox About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. NEW YORK, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FLUENT Corp. (CSE: FNT.U) (OTCQB: CNTMF) (FLUENT or the Company), a national cannabis company operating under the FLUENT brand, is proud to announce the launch of Hyer Kind, a cosmic voyage into the world of premium cannabis, in the state of New York. Hyer Kinds expertly crafted live rosin-infused pre-rolls Boosters are now available at all adult-use FLUENT retail stores throughout New York and its rapidly growing wholesale channels statewide. Designed for exceptional flavor and quality, these pre-rolls cater to the rising demand for infused options in the Empire State. We are thrilled to expand access to Hyer Kind products beyond Florida and now into New York, said Robert Beasley, CEO of FLUENT. As we grow our brand and product portfolio in New York, we remain committed to aligning our menu selection with Florida, ensuring consistency and familiarity for our patients and customers nationwide." The infused pre-rolls - Hyer Kind Boosters - will be initially offered in two formats, 1g single and multi-pack option of five 0.5g pre-rolls. Each Hyer Kind product is crafted to deliver unmatched, full-spectrum flavor derived directly from premium cannabis plants. The process begins with in-house whole flower selection and extends to cutting-edge hydrocarbon and solventless extraction techniques, ensuring the highest level of quality. Hyer Kind Boosters can now be found through wholesale channels in New York and at all FLUENT adult- use locations in New York . FLUENT plans to continue expanding the Hyer Kind brand in both Florida and New York to create a robust portfolio of concentrates and infused product offerings. For more information on product releases and availability, visit the FLUENT website and follow FLUENT on Instagram @Fluent_FL to stay up-to-date on the Companys latest innovations and offerings. About FLUENT Corp. FLUENT Corp. ("FLUENT"), a national cannabis consumer packaged goods company and retailer, is dedicated to being one of the highest quality cannabis companies for the communities it serves. This is driven by FLUENT's unrelenting commitment to operational excellence in cultivation, production, distribution and retail experience. FLUENT produces an assortment of cannabis products under a diverse portfolio of brands including MOODS, Knack, Wandr, Bag-O and Hyer Kind. FLUENT operates in Florida, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas. Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, FLUENT employs 700 employees across 8 cultivation and manufacturing facilities and 42 active retail locations. For more information about the Company, please visit www.getFLUENT.com. FLUENTs Common Shares trade on the CSE under the symbol FNT.U and on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol CNTMF. For more information about the Company, please visit www.getFLUENT.com. Company Contact: Robert Beasley, CEO investors@getfluent.com Media Contact: press@getfluent.com Dublin, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "World Textile and Apparel Trade and Production Trends: China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, February 2025" report from Textiles Intelligence Ltd. has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This report contains statistical data, information and insight into the textile and apparel industries in East Asia. In particular, it identifies important trends and includes information on: textile and clothing production; textile and clothing imports by importing country and supplying country; and textile and clothing exports by exporting country and destination country. Also, it discusses industry strategy and provides an outlook for the future. The report presents a wealth of information, and is essential for anyone who is considering sourcing from, selling to or investing in China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan and their export markets. Chinese textile and clothing exports were up during January-November 2024. Also, production of man-made fibres, yarns and fabrics increased in 2024, and retail sales of clothing and footwear in the country inched up. In Japan, textile and clothing exports were up in 2024 following increases in 2022 and again in 2023 but Japanese textile and clothing production fell in various categories, and there was a decline in domestic retail sales of textiles and clothing. South Korean textile and clothing exports fell in 2024 following declines in 2022 and again in 2023. Furthermore, textile production declined in South Korea for the 12th time in 13 years, and clothing production was down for the sixth time in eight years. By contrast, Taiwanese textile and clothing exports were up during January-November 2024, although clothing production in Taiwan fell in 2024. Who should buy this report? Manufacturers of fibres, textiles, clothing and chemicals Textile and clothing machinery manufacturers - spinning, weaving, knitting, sewing and import/export Textile and clothing brands and retailers like Adidas, H&M etc. Educational institutions like universities, fashion schools etc. Business consultancy firms Textile and clothing trade associations Government trade bodies Key Topics Covered: SUMMARY CHINA Exports Export markets Exports from China to the USA Exports from China to the EU Exports from China to Vietnam Exports from China to Japan Exports from China to South Korea Exports from China to other markets Production Domestic retail sales Strategy and outlook JAPAN Exports Export markets Exports from Japan to China Exports from Japan to other Asian markets Exports from Japan to the EU Exports from Japan to the USA Domestic sales Production Imports Strategy and outlook SOUTH KOREA Exports Export markets Exports from South Korea to Vietnam Exports from South Korea to China Exports from South Korea to the USA Exports from South Korea to the EU Exports from South Korea to other markets Production Strategy and outlook TAIWAN Exports Export markets Exports from Taiwan to Vietnam Exports from Taiwan to China Exports from Taiwan to the USA Exports from Taiwan to Indonesia Exports from Taiwan to Cambodia Exports from Taiwan to the EU Exports from Taiwan to Japan Production Strategy and outlook For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/hjygm8 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Toronto, ON, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) is thrilled to announce Ruby Littlechild, a proud member of Treaty 6 and descendant of the Plains Cree, as the recipient of the 2025 Indigenous Women in Leadership (IWIL) Award. The IWIL Award, sponsored by LNG Canada, is presented annually to an Indigenous woman who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, mentorship, and a profound impact on her community and beyond. Ruby Littlechild, National Director of Indigenous Relations at AtkinsRealis, embodies the values of strength, wisdom, and spiritual connection. Littlechild has consistently worked to bridge the gap between Indigenous communities and industry through inclusive collaboration, authentic stakeholder engagement and a deep understanding of cultural awareness. We are so proud to present Ruby Littlechild with the IWIL Award, said Tabatha Bull, CCIB President & CEO. This well-deserved recognition reflects her dedication to economic development and reconciliation throughout her career. Rubys leadership and tireless advocacy are helping to strengthen opportunities for Indigenous communities and her example serves as an inspiration to Indigenous women to pursue and excel in leadership roles. Littlechild has a strong commitment to inclusive socio-economic growth, and a deep passion for promoting healing, higher education, and First Nations awareness. Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts, a Master of Education Degree, and a Master of Business Administration Degree with a focus on First Nations Community Economic Development, she is also currently working towards her Master of Arts Degree in Human Rights from the University of London. She has worked with numerous organizations and sits on national boards to move the needle forward for Indigenous economic development. I accept this recognition from the CCIB with great humility, said Ruby Littlechild, National Director of Indigenous Relations, AtkinsRealis. Coming only a few months after AtkinsRealis proudest milestone so far with CCIB a PAIR Bronze Certification it is a reminder to me that Indigenous people can make a profound impact on society when we tell our story with authenticity, use our lived experiences to inform our work, and partner constructively with our allies. I feel fortunate to apply myself in what I think of less as a job and more as a calling; helping harness our vast capabilities at AtkinsRealis to engineer a better future for Indigenous communities. Littlechild will be honoured at CCIBs Central Business Forum & IWIL Award Dinner on June 5, 2025, in Toronto. Ruby stands out for maintaining a firm connection to our traditional nehiyaw ways and for her commitment to academic excellence, said Hope Regimbald, Indigenous and Stakeholder Relations Lead, LNG Canada. She takes those commitments and abilities and delivers high standards for meaningful Indigenous inclusion in some of the worlds largest corporations. I am inspired by her personally as a nehiyaw iskwew and honoured to recognize her as a colleague. Past recipients of CCIBs IWIL award are from all across Canada, including the Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, Roberta Jamieson, Nicole Bourque-Bouchier, Dr. Deborah Saucier, Chief Tammy Cook-Searson, Shelly Mandeville, Rose Paul, and Annette Morgan. -30- About Canadian Council for Indigenous Business: CCIB is committed to the full participation of Indigenous peoples in Canadas economy. As a national, non-partisan association, its mission is to promote, strengthen and enhance a prosperous Indigenous economy through the fostering of business relationships, opportunities, and awareness. CCIB offers knowledge, resources, and programs to its members to cultivate economic opportunities for Indigenous peoples and businesses across Canada. For more information, visit www.ccib.ca. For more information contact: Alannah Jabokwoam Senior Associate, Communications & Public Relations Canadian Council for Indigenous Business ajabokwoam@ccib.ca T: 416.961.8663 ext. 227 Attachment MT. VERNON, IL, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clearwave Fiber is excited to announce the grand opening of its new Customer Experience Center in Mt. Vernon, Ill. The celebration will take place during a Business After Hours & Ribbon Cutting event on Thursday, April 10, from 4-6 p.m. The celebration will be held at the companys new facility at 616 S. 42nd St. This event marks a significant milestone in Clearwave Fibers ongoing expansion and commitment to delivering 100% Fiber Internet services to the region. In partnership with the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, the event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, networking opportunities and refreshments. All in the community are invited to join in celebrating this important occasion, highlighting Clearwave Fibers dedication to strengthening local connections and fostering economic growth through reliable, high-speed Internet solutions. Clearwave Fiber has invested significantly to enable high-speed Fiber Internet for nearly 50,000 homes and businesses across Southern Illinois. The company is continuing its Illinois expansion with projects planned through 2025 and into 2026. As we continue to grow in Mt. Vernon and beyond, were proud to invest in the community and enhance the way residents and businesses connect, said David Armistead, CEO of Clearwave Fiber. This new Customer Experience Center allows us to better serve our customers and showcase the benefits of Fiber Internet. In support of STEM education and future innovators, Clearwave Fiber will make a donation to the RoboRams Robotics Team from Mt. Vernon Township High School. This contribution underscores the companys commitment to fostering science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education in the Southern Illinois community. Fiber Internet plays a crucial role in advancing technology and education, added Armistead. By supporting the RoboRams, were investing in the next generation of problem-solvers and tech leaders. Clearwave Fiber has proven to be an excellent community partner, consistently demonstrating a deep commitment to meeting the needs of its customers. We are thrilled to celebrate the opening of its new Customer Experience Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and Business After Hours event, said Lauren Berry, Community Engagement Director for the Jefferson County Illinois Chamber of Commerce. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Clearwave Fiber, Berry added. Clearwave Fiber invites all community members, business leaders and local officials to join the celebration. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the Clearwave Fiber team and learn more about the companys Fiber Internet services. ABOUT CLEARWAVE FIBER Clearwave Fiber is an Internet service provider that operates a Fiber network serving communities across the Midwest and Southeast regions of the United States. With an emphasis on exceptional customer care and community engagement, the fast-growing company delivers advanced telecommunications solutions, providing Fiber to business, enterprise and residential customers in Illinois, Kansas, Florida and Georgia. Committed to deploying 100% Fiber Internet service to 500,000 homes and businesses across the country by 2026, Clearwave Fiber employs more than 300 and is based in Savannah, Ga. Learn more at ClearwaveFiber.com, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. The Annual General Meeting of Shareholders of Grigeo Group AB, legal entity code: 110012450, registered office: Vilniaus str. 10, Grigiskes, Vilnius City Municipality, Lithuania (hereinafter the Company), is convened by initiative and the decision of the Board of the Company on 28th April 2025, at 11.00 a.m. The Annual General Meeting of Shareholders will be held at the Companys Office at Vilniaus str. 10, Grigiskes, Vilnius City municipality, Lithuania, in the second-floor hall of the Companys administrative building. Registration of shareholders starts at 10.15 a.m. and ends at 10.55 a.m. The accounting day of the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders is 18th April 2025. Persons who were shareholders of the Company at the close of the accounting day of the Meeting shall have the right to attend and vote at the General Meeting of Shareholders in person or may authorize other persons to vote for them as proxies or may conclude an agreement on the disposal of the voting right with third parties. The accounting day of shareholders' proprietary rights is 13th May 2025. The proprietary rights (the right to receive dividends) will be held by persons who, at the end of the tenth business day following the date of General Meeting of Shareholders which adopted the appropriate resolution, i.e., 13th May 2025, will be the shareholders of the Company. The agenda of the Meeting: 1. Consolidated management report for 2024 2. Approval of the Company's remuneration report. 3. The report of the Company's independent auditors. 4. Approval of the consolidated and separate financial statements of the Company for the year ended 31 December 2024. 5. Allocation of the Company's profits for 2024. 6. Amendment of the Company's Articles of Association and approval of the new version of the Articles of Association. 7. Election of the firm to audit the financial statements and determination of the terms of payment for audit services. 8. Approval of the firm to audit the sustainability reports and determination of the terms of remuneration for services. 9. Approval of the Company's remuneration policy. A person attending the General Meeting of Shareholders and entitled to vote shall produce a document proving his identity. A person who is not a shareholder shall additionally produce a document confirming his right to vote at the General Meeting of Shareholders. Shareholder entitled to attend and vote at the General Meeting of Shareholders shall have the right to authorise in writing a natural or legal person to participate and vote on his behalf at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. Such authorisation must be approved in accordance with the procedure laid down by law. Shareholder entitled to attend and vote at the General Meeting of Shareholders shall also have the right to authorize a natural or legal person to participate and vote on his behalf at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders by means of electronic communications. Such proxy of the shareholder is not subject to notarial certification. The power of attorney issued by means of electronic communication shall be confirmed by the shareholder with an electronic signature developed by safe signature equipment and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania. The proxy given by means of electronic communications and the notice of the given proxy shall be submitted to the Company by e-mail group@grigeo.com not later than on the last business day before the General Meeting of Shareholders. The authorised person shall have the same rights as would be held by the shareholder represented by him unless the issued authorisation or laws provide for narrower rights of the authorised person. The Company has not set the proxy form. The Company is not providing the possibility to attend and vote at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders by means of electronic communications. A shareholder or a person authorised by him shall have a right to vote in writing in advance by filling in the general ballot paper. The general ballot paper will be provided on the Company's website www.grigeo.com under the heading "For Investors". If the person who completed the general ballot paper is not a shareholder, the completed general ballot paper must be accompanied by a document confirming the right to vote. The duly completed, printed, and signed general ballot paper must be sent by mail to the Company's Office at Vilniaus str. 10, Grigiskes, Vilnius City Municipality, Lithuania not later than on the last business day before the General Meeting of Shareholders or presented to the Company until the end of registration of shareholders on the day of the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. The shareholder or his authorized person may also sign the duly completed general ballot paper with a qualified electronic signature developed by safe signature equipment and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania and send it to the Company by e-mail group@grigeo.com not later than on the last business day before the General Meeting of Shareholders. Shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes, have a right of proposing to supplement the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders. Draft decisions on the proposed issues or, when it is not mandatory to adopt decisions, explanatory notes on each proposed issue of the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders must be presented alongside with the proposal. Proposal to the agenda of the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders shall be submitted in writing by e-mail to group@grigeo.com or delivered or sent by mail to the Company's office at Vilniaus str. 10, Grigiskes, Vilnius City Municipality, Lithuania. Proposal to the agenda sent by e-mail must be signed with a qualified electronic signature developed by safe signature equipment and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania. The agenda will be supplemented where the proposal is received not later than 14 days before the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. Shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all votes have a right of proposing draft decisions on the issues already included in the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders, nominate additional candidates to members of the Supervisory Board. The proposed draft decisions, information about proposed additional candidates to members of the Supervisory Board at any time before the General Meeting of Shareholders must be presented in writing by sending them by mail by e-mail group@grigeo.com or delivering or sending by mail to the Company's office at Vilniaus str. 10, Grigiskes, Vilniaus City Municipality, Lithuania. The proposed draft decisions sent by e-mail must be signed with a qualified electronic signature developed by safe signature equipment and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania. The shareholders shall also be entitled to propose draft decisions on the agenda issues of the General Meeting of Shareholders, nominate additional candidates to members of the Supervisory Board in writing during the General Meeting of Shareholders. Shareholders shall have the right to submit to the Company in advance any questions regarding the agenda of the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. Questions may be submitted in writing by e-mail to group@grigeo.com or delivered or sent by mail to the Company's office at Vilniaus str. 10, Grigiskes, Vilnius City Municipality, Lithuania not later than 25th April 2025. Questions sent by e-mail must be signed with a qualified electronic signature developed by safe signature equipment and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania. Responses of a general nature shall be posted on the Company's website www.grigeo.lt, under the heading "For Investors". The Company shall not respond personally to the shareholder when the relevant information is presented on the Company's website www.grigeo.com. The shareholders can get acquainted with the documents held by the Company related to the agenda of the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, draft resolutions of the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, and other documents to be submitted to the General Meeting of Shareholders as well as to get information regarding execution of the shareholders rights at the Companys office located Vilniaus g. 10, Grigiskes, Vilnius City Municipality, Lithuania on weekdays from 8.00 a.m. till 3.00 p.m. or on the Company's website www.grigeo.com, under the heading "For Investors". The total number of the Company's shares and the number of shares granting voting rights during the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders is the same and amounts to 131,400,000. ISIN code of the Companys shares is LT0000102030. All the information regarding the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders is presented on the Company's website www.grigeo.com, under the heading "For Investors" or provided by phone +370 5 243 5801. Tomas Jozonis Chief Executive Officer +370 5 243 58 01 Boulder City, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fisher Space Pen Joins Space Industry Leaders in Celebrating Space Symposiums 40th Anniversary Boulder City, Nevada (Friday, April 4, 2025) Fisher Space Pen, the iconic writing tool trusted by astronauts and adventurers alike, is proud to announce its participation in the upcoming 40th Space Symposium, April 710 in Colorado Springs, CO. This premier event unites space leaders and enthusiasts from around the world, presenting an unparalleled opportunity to celebrate space exploration and technological innovation. As a testament to Fisher Space Pen's unwavering commitment to excellence in extreme environments, the brand will spotlight its collaborations with key partners in the space industry, including NASA, Space Force, Blue Origin, and Axiom Space. These partnerships have solidified Fisher Space Pens reputation as a trusted writing companion on Earth and beyond. Were thrilled to be part of the 40th Space Symposium and to showcase how Fisher Space Pen continues to support humanitys bold endeavors in space exploration, said Matt Fisher, Vice President of Fisher Pen Company. Our partnerships with visionary entities like NASA, Blue Origin, and Axiom Space not only reaffirm our legacy as a small family-owned business but also pave the way for innovative tools that inspire future generations. Just last week, Fisher unveiled a special edition of its original Astronaut Space Pen, featuring a cutting-edge blue titanium nitride coating that combines sleek aesthetics with exceptional durability. Adorning the barrel is the NASA logo, alongside an elegant stars and stripes laser-engraved design, making this pen a tribute to the spirit of space exploration and patriotism. This latest iteration continues the tradition of precision craftsmanship and innovative design that has made the AG7 a favorite among astronauts, collectors, and enthusiasts alike. Fisher Pen first rolled out this special edition coated in blue titanium nitride in August 2014 to commemorate the 45th Anniversary of Apollo 11 and the first manned moon landing. Fisher Space Pen will feature a dedicated exhibit [BOOTH 1071] highlighting its iconic designs and unparalleled performance in zero-gravity environments. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to learn about the technology behind the pressurized ink cartridge and witness how Fisher Space Pen continues to meet the demands of modern space exploration as well as the everyday adventures and jobs here on Earth. Other pens on display will include specially licensed pens featuring Blue Origin, Axiom Space, and the United States Space Force. Share your passion for space with those pens or your own NASA-approved, Artemis-branded Space Pen, or put a unique twist on writing with the Vortex Space Pens we released late last year! Booth 1071 is the place to find your new space-inspired writing tool. One of the marquee events of the annual Space Symposium is the Space Technology Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Founded in 1988 in partnership with NASA, the Space Technology Hall of Fame recognizes the life-changing technologies emerging from global space programs; honors the scientists, engineers and innovators responsible; and communicates to the public the importance of these technologies as a return on investment in space exploration. Fisher Space Pen was inducted into the 2021 Space Technology Hall of Fame by The Space Foundation. The 40th Space Symposium promises to be an exciting platform for Fisher Space Pen to connect with industry leaders, enthusiasts, and educators, celebrating a shared vision of exploration that defies boundaries. About Fisher Space Pen: Fisher Space Pen Co. is a 76-year-old American manufacturer of ballpoint pens, with the notable distinction of being the only ballpoint pen used on every crewed flight into space since Apollo 7 back in 1968 and most recently with SpaceX. While pressurized technology made it possible for NASAs astronauts to write in space, it also provided writing capabilities in all weather, underwater, over oil and grease, and from -30 to +250 degrees Fahrenheit. These pens are the perfect tool for trade professionals, first responders, military personnel, rugged outdoor enthusiasts, trekkers, backpackers, industrial manufacturers, underwater divers, and anyone who values a pen that doesnt fail. ### 711 Yucca St, Boulder City, NV 89005 (702) 293-3011 spacepen.com Attachment TAMPA BAY, Fla., April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Energetic Harmony , a leader in holistic stress relief, proudly announces the expansion of its services to include Emotion Code a powerful modality specifically designed to help age 30+ professionals release trapped emotions that contribute to persistent work-life challenges. Official badge certifying Harmony Major as a credentialed Emotion Code Practitioner, reflecting Energetic Harmonys commitment to trauma-informed, high-quality holistic care "When professionals come to us, they've typically tried everything, from therapy, to yoga, to meditation apps, without lasting results, explains Harmony Major, President and Lead Wellness Strategist of Energetic Harmony. Emotion Code offers something fundamentally differenta strategic way to identify and release what's literally trapped in their tissues." This approach aligns with groundbreaking research from Dr. Candace Pert, former Chief of Brain Biochemistry at the National Association of Mental Health, who discovered that emotions are physical things that can become stuck in bodily tissues. As one of the few practices available online, owned by a pioneering Black energy healer , Energetic Harmony continues to break barriers in inclusiveness in wellness, while delivering scientifically-informed approaches to stress relief that go beyond conventional methods. Energetic Harmony's approach stands apart through its intentional integration of multiple evidence-informed healing modalities, including master-level reiki, Yoga for Normal Bodies, sound, movement, & breath therapy, and now Emotion Code. Unlike typical wellness practices with multiple related but disjointed offerings, Energetic Harmony strategically stacks modalities based on each client's specific needs and patterns. The results speak volumes. One client reported: "After my first energy medicine session, I found it much easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. For the first time in a long time, I woke up feeling rested instead of exhausted." Another shared: "I struggled with debilitating nosebleeds, hay fever, and sinus infections for 4 decades. After a few months of working with Harmonyfor completely unrelated issuesmy seasonal allergies disappeared completely!" "Like any holistic approach, energy medicine approaches like Emotion Code work differently for each person," explains Major. "The body remembers what the conscious mind has forgotten. Energy medicine works directly with the subconscious and energy systems to address root causes that conventional approaches often miss. Many clients experience significant shifts within just a few sessions, while deeper patterns may need focused work across several months. But its not an endless processit's strategic rebalancing that targets exactly what's keeping you stuck." To celebrate this expansion, Energetic Harmony is offering steeply discounted introductory sessions for new clients interested in experiencing the Emotion Code firsthand. Explore more about the practice and book an appointment: Harmony Major, CSFC, RYT-200, ECP-1, President & Lead Wellness Strategist for Energetic Harmony About Energetic Harmony Established in 2021, Energetic Harmony helps tough, age 30+ professionals release the stress from their tissues to resolve work-life issues. The practice, owned by pioneering Black Energy Healer and Entrepreneur Performance Strategist Harmony Major, CSFC, CRP, RYT-200, offers Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapies strategically designed to relieve stubborn symptoms of chronic stress and emotional trauma. Press inquiries Play Airlines has accepted a settlement offer from the Financial Supervisory Authority of the Central Bank of Iceland (FSA) regarding the investigation of the companys compliance with Article 17(1) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council in connection with disclosure of information about the companys lower revenue generation and that the company would not be operated with a positive operating result (EBIT) in the latter half of 2022. As has been disclosed in the companys annual financial results for the past two financial years and in past media coverage of the matter, the company has engaged in discussions with the FSA relating to, among other things, whether draft Q3 2022 interim financial statements that were presented at the companys board meeting on 27 October 2022 contained inside information, and whether their disclosure on 3 November 2022 was therefore made too late. PLAY maintained that the information in question did not constitute inside information, as the companys initial forecast had been relatively broad and reflected generally worded expectations. The company also considered that the information, in its presented form, was not price sensitive. However, the FSA did not concur with this assessment. Throughout the course of the FSAs investigation, PLAY has fully cooperated and provided access to all relevant documentation that contributed to this outcome. The settlement entails that the company pays a fine of ISK 15,800,000 and acknowledges the FSAs conclusion that the company violated Article 17(1) of MAR. This matter is thereby fully concluded. For further information: Birgir Olgeirsson, PR manager at Play bo@flyplay.com 8677802 Connecticut, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Social networking has become synonymous with chasing likes, followers, and vanity metrics a system that began with Facebook in 2004 and has trained an entire generation to equate self-worth with numbers. Today, Series announces the launch of its AI-powered social platform that's reinventing how college students connect, securing $3M in pre-seed funding to create a network built on meaningful relationships The team raised $3.1M in funding for its pre-seed round led by Parable (former a16z investor, Anne Lee Skates) with participation from Pear VC, Tim Draper's DGB.VC, 47th Street (Jaren Glover, ex-Robinhood), Radicle Impact, Uncommon Projects, and notable angels including the CEO of Reddit (Steve Huffman), the founder of GPTZero (Edward Tian), and others. The funding journey reads like a startup fairy tale: just two weeks ago, co-founder Nathaneo Johnson posted a trailer on LinkedIn about Series that went viral in the college entrepreneurial community. After an initial Zoom call with Anne Lee Skates (who started her fund after leaving a16z), Johnson and co-founder Sean Hargrow both juniors at Yale immediately flew to Silicon Valley to begin fundraising. What happened next defied conventional startup timelines for college founders: they closed their round in just 14 days. Series founders: Nathaneo Johnson and Sean Hargrow. Series is the first networking platform that uses AI Friends to make warm, double opt-in introductions across different networks. These AI Friends operate directly in iMessage and become personalized towards each user, making intros autonomously or on demand. Unlike existing platforms, Series creates connections only when there's mutual value on both sides eliminating the biases perpetuated by follower counts and engagement metrics. The platform requires a .edu email to join, creating a trusted ecosystem where students text their AI Friend about themselves and who they know, receiving a minimalist profile showcasing their warm network. "The problem of quantifying value online isn't a recent development - it started with Facebook back in '04. Not to say these platforms don't build great communities, but they embody the narrative that online metrics equate to real world value said Nathaneo Johnson, co-founder & CEO of Series. Were 65, Black, and technical - a direct foil to the Harvard story. And that difference is the reason Series tells a new story of how people connect online. Series' revolutionary approach addresses a fundamental issue in modern social networking: people rely on biased guesswork and social proof to decide whom to connect with, and over time, making connections feels like charity. The company's solution is an AI system that intelligently identifies potential matches based on genuine mutual benefit no likes, followers, or vanity metrics just smart, agentic networking where much of Gen Z already lives: iMessage. The company's journey began with The Founder Series Podcast, where founders Nathaneo Johnson and Sean Hargrow interviewed Yale entrepreneurs, accumulating over 500k views. This evolved into a viral web chatbot that facilitated curated introductions based on mutual value, gaining immediate traction at Yale and Princeton. With the official launch of Series in 2025, the platform has already recorded over 32,000 messages sent and received by AI Friends. The platform's ability to create natural human connections through AI has already resonated with early users: "I forgot it (the AI friend) wasnt a real person. That was until I connected to a real person in the form of a minimalist profile my AI Friend (Oliver) had texted me. It was awesome," reported Rich Zou, a student at Northeastern who uses Series for hosting hackathons. "Once we capture the college entrepreneurial market, we'll expand to finance, dating, education, health, and more. All of these fields in the student space rely on trust, access, and social capital," explained Johnson. "Our long-term vision is to become the largest and most accessible warm network for just about anything - one billion AI Friends in the next decade. Social connection is broken; we're rebuilding it with AI that acts like a well-connected friend in your pocket making connections to who you need, when you need, IRL." Ends Media images can be found here. About Series Series is an AI social network that uses AI Friends to make double opt-in intros. The product operates directly in iMessage, calls, and other messaging platforms., and makes introductions based on users warm networks. Series has processed over 32,000 messages to date and aims to build the largest and most accessible warm network - starting with student entrepreneurs. Series is hiring for a number of roles. Please visit https://series.so/ for more information or follow via LinkedIn. SILVER SPRING, MD, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The American Nurses Enterprise, which includes the American Nurses Association, the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and the American Nurses Foundation, is pleased to announce the appointment of Bradley (Brad) Goettl, DNP, DHA, RN, FNP-C, FAAN as its new Chief Nursing Officer. Dr. Goettl will join the organization on April 21, 2025. It is a humbling and exciting opportunity to be the next Chief Nursing Officer and a member of the American Nurses Enterprises executive team, advancing nursing professional practice standards for more than 5 million nurses, notes Dr. Goettl. Most recently, Dr. Goettl served as the interim Co-Executive Director and Chief Clinical Officer of the Emergency Nurses Association. He has also contributed as the Director of Advanced Practice Provider Fellowships Programs at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. Brad holds a wide-range of specialty certifications reflecting his commitment to ongoing professional development and formal credentialing as an emergency nurse (CPEN) and emergency nurse practitioner (ENP-C), adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP-BC), certified flight registered nurse (CFRN), and as an emergency medical technician paramedic (EMT-P). He is also an appointed fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (FAANP), Academy of Emergency Nursing (FAEN), American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), and the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN). Earlier this year, he was appointed Nurse Executive in Residence at Georgetown University School of Nursing as part of a nationally recognized senior nurse leader advisory team to contribute to the schools Executive Doctor of Nursing Practice in Health System Leadership and Policy. Brad has an impressive professional nursing background, grounded through his career journey from EMT, RN and APRN, serving in progressive operational, association, policy advocacy and academic roles as a nationally recognized executive nurse leader, says American Nurses Associations President Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, PhD, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN. Serving as an appointed commissioner for the Commission on Accreditation in Nursing Continuing Professional Development with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) has positioned Brad to shape a wide range of future standards. I look forward to partnering with him in his new role as Chief Nursing Officer, shares ANCC President Laura J. Wood, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN. Brads forward-looking perspectives, unwavering passion, his contributions within membership associations and professional development programs, and his national and international perspectives make him a perfect fit for this strategic executive leadership role, said American Nurses Enterprise Chief Executive Officer Angela Beddoe. The Chief Nursing Officer amplifies the shared priorities and advocates for unified solutions for all nurses. ### About American Nurses Enterprise American Nurses Enterprise unites the expertise and dedication of the American Nurses Association, American Nurses Credentialing Center, and American Nurses Foundation to champion nurses, advance standards of excellence and inspire transformative change. With a powerful legacy and forward-thinking vision, our influence spans federal and local levels working through state affiliates and partners to amplify the voice of nurses across all practices and specialties. Every day, we harness The Power of Nurses to increase the value of the nursing profession and transform the healthcare experience for all. Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Adam Rana, Entrepreneur and International Speaker Your Perfect Stay, a short-term rental company with an influence in the United Kingdom and Dubai, is bound to reach greater heights with its founder, Adam Rana, extending his influence in the broader landscape through keynote speaking. Rana is now taking his insights to global audiences, focusing on entrepreneurship, business strategy, and real estate investment. He aims to provide aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate leaders with the knowledge, tools, and frameworks they need to scale in competitive industries. Born in Pakistan, Rana moved to the UK with his mother and two younger siblings in pursuit of better opportunities. He overcame multiple challenges, from learning a new language and familiarizing himself with a new environment to navigating financial struggles. He climbed the corporate ladder before he finally found his passion in entrepreneurship. In 2018, Rana launched Holistic Properties Group, determined to help clients build long-term wealth through high-yield property investments. The company became a trusted name in the UK property sector, offering investors data-driven strategies and transparent property transactions. Ranas ability to create structured investment models propelled the firm to greater heights. With a keen ability to identify opportunities, Rana expanded into the short-term rental market, founding Your Perfect Stay Dubai & UK in 2019. It aims to bridge the gap between luxury hospitality and the convenience of short-term rentals, catering to business and leisure travelers in the UK and Dubai. Understanding market demand, the forward-thinking entrepreneur allowed Your Perfect Stay to gain traction as a reliable provider of premium serviced accommodations. In 2023, Rana and his business partners acquired EP Real Estate (Equity Partners) as part of their M&A strategy. Based in Dubai, the company is known for providing high-return real estate investment opportunities and serving as an official associate partner of the English Premier League club Crystal Palace. As Managing Director, Rana leverages his expertise in market analysis, negotiation, and strategic growth to position EP Real Estate as a key player in the regions competitive property market. Rana boasts a background rooted in technical expertise and corporate leadership. He earned a degree in mechanical engineering, where he developed a strong foundation in problem-solving, systems thinking, and efficiency optimization. Before fully venturing into entrepreneurship, he gained corporate experience in high-level roles. He became an Investment Team Leader at a global energy corporation. Here, he was responsible for overseeing multi-million-pound infrastructure projects, managing budgets, and coordinating with stakeholders. Rana also took on the role of Senior Quality Engineer at a British multinational automobile manufacturer, managing large-scale business projects. These experiences informed his strategic mindset and leadership skills, which now define his approach to business. Now, delving into keynote speaking, Rana aims to share real-world insights beyond theory. His talks focus on helping entrepreneurs build sustainable, scalable businesses through informed decision-making, financial intelligence, and market adaptability. Rana delivers his content clearly, authentically, and with practical depth, whether discussing real estate investing, business expansion, or leveraging emerging opportunities. I believe success is about creating systems that allow you to grow, adapt, and thrive in any market, Rana remarks. I want to help others accelerate their journey by sharing the strategies and lessons Ive learned firsthand so they can scale faster and more effectively. The upcoming keynote engagements of the Your Perfect Stay Founder will primarily target the United States, the UK, and the Middle East markets, where he intends to connect with business communities eager to learn from his expertise. He is also currently running a successful mentorship program, authoring a business strategy book, and developing a digital platform that educates future entrepreneurs, all while expanding his real estate investments and exploring opportunities in emerging business markets. Media Contact Name: Kat Mendoza Email: info@yourperfectstay.co.uk SAN DIEGO, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Johnson Fistel, PLLP, a shareholder rights law firm, announces it is investigating potential breaches of fiduciary duties by certain directors and officers of Archer Daniels Midland Company (NYSE: ADM) concerning their obligations to the company's shareholders. What can I do? If you are a current ADM shareholder, you may have legal claims that may be brought on behalf of the company, against the companys directors and officers. If you wish to discuss this notice or your legal rights, please contact lead analyst Jim Baker (jimb@johnsonfistel.com) at 619-814-4471. If emailing, please include a phone number. If you have continuously owned ADM shares since April 30, 2020, you can click or copy and paste the link below in a browser to join: https://www.johnsonfistel.com/investigations/archer-daniels-midland-company What is this about? On or about March 12, 2025, the court denied the defendants motion to dismiss a class-action lawsuit against Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (ADM) and its executives, alleging they made false statements violating securities laws. The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material facts, about the performance and prospects of ADMs Nutrition segment and its accounting practices. Specifically, the Complaint alleges Defendants made positive statements about the Nutrition segment as a future profit-driver for the Company, with the ability to capitalize on healthier eating trends and rising consumer demand for natural ingredients and flavoring, and that Defendants created the impression that the Nutrition segments growth would provide more diversification and earnings stability for ADM. However, the Complaint alleges that the Nutrition segments ostensibly impressive growth was inaccurate and subject to improper accounting practices, and Defendants also downplayed the segments eventual decline in 2023. The Complaint claims that Defendants' actions caused the price of ADM common stock to trade at artificially inflated levels during the Class Period. About Johnson Fistel, PLLP | Top Law Firm, Securities Fraud, Investors Rights: Johnson Fistel, PLLP is a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm with offices in California, New York, Georgia, Idaho, and Colorado. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in shareholder derivative and securities class action lawsuits. We also extend our services to foreign investors who have purchased on US exchanges. Stay updated with news on stock drops and learn how Johnson Fistel, PLLP can help you recover your losses. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit http://www.johnsonfistel.com. Achievements: In 2024, Johnson Fistel was honored to be ranked in the Top 10 Plaintiff Law Firms by the ISS Securities Class Action Services. This recognition underscores our effectiveness in advocating for investors, having recovered approximately $90,725,000 for aggrieved clients in cases where we served as lead or co-lead counsel. This notable accomplishment marks the eighth occasion our firm has been recognized as a top plaintiffs securities law firm in the United States, as determined by the total dollar value of final recoveries. Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices. Johnson Fistel, PLLP has paid for the dissemination of this promotional communication, and Frank J. Johnson is the attorney responsible for its content. Contact: Johnson Fistel, PLLP 501 W. Broadway, Suite 800, San Diego, CA 92101 James Baker, Investor Relations or Frank J. Johnson, Esq., (619) 814-4471 jimb@johnsonfistel.com or fjohnson@johnsonfistel.com DENVER, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- National Bank Holdings Corporation (NYSE: NBHC) expects to report its first quarter financial results after the markets close on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Management will host a conference call to review the results at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Interested parties may listen to this call by dialing (877) 400-0505 using the participant passcode of 7036929 and asking for the NBHC Q1 2025 Earnings Call. A recording of the call will be available approximately four hours after the calls completion on the Companys website at www.nationalbankholdings.com by visiting the investor relations area. About National Bank Holdings Corporation National Bank Holdings Corporation is a bank holding company created to build a leading community bank franchise delivering high quality client service and committed to stakeholder results. Through its bank subsidiaries, NBH Bank and Bank of Jackson Hole Trust, National Bank Holdings Corporation operates a network of over 90 banking centers, serving individual consumers, small, medium and large businesses, and government and non-profit entities. Its banking centers are located in its core footprint of Colorado, the greater Kansas City region, Utah, Wyoming, Texas, New Mexico and Idaho. Its comprehensive residential mortgage banking group primarily serves the banks core footprint. Its trust business is operated in its core footprint under the Bank of Jackson Hole Trust charter. NBH Bank operates under a single state charter through the following brand names as divisions of NBH Bank: in Colorado, Community Banks of Colorado and Community Banks Mortgage; in Kansas and Missouri, Bank Midwest and Bank Midwest Mortgage; in Utah, Texas, New Mexico and Idaho, Hillcrest Bank and Hillcrest Bank Mortgage; and in Wyoming, Bank of Jackson Hole and Bank of Jackson Hole Mortgage. Additional information about National Bank Holdings Corporation can be found at www.nationalbankholdings.com. For more information visit: cobnks.com, bankmw.com, hillcrestbank.com, bankofjacksonhole.com, or nbhbank.com. Or connect with any of our brands on LinkedIn. Contact: Analysts/Institutional Investors: Emily Gooden, 720-554-6640 Chief Accounting Officer and Investor Relations Director ir@nationalbankholdings.com Nicole Van Denabeele, 720-529-3370 Chief Financial Officer ir@nationalbankholdings.com Media: Jody Soper, 303-784-5925 Chief Marketing Officer Jody.Soper@nbhbank.com Source: National Bank Holdings Corporation Tim Keller and Wife to Receive Biola University Charles W. Colson Conviction and Courage Award NEWS PROVIDED BY Biola University April 3, 2025 LA MIRADA, Calif., April 3, 2025 /Standard Newswire/ Timothy Tim Keller and his wife Kathy are the joint recipients of Biola Universitys 2025 Charles W. Colson Award for Conviction and Courage. The award will be presented on campus by Biolas President Barry H. Corey on April 9 at 9:30 a.m. in Ethel Lee Auditorium. Tim and Kathys son, Michael Keller, will accept the Colson Award on behalf of his father posthumously and his mother who is unable to attend. Tim Keller was the founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, cofounder of the esteemed Christian publication the Gospel Coalition, and is the author of 31 books that have, combined, sold over 6 million copies and been translated into 29 languages. Tim Keller passed away on May 19, 2023, leaving a lasting legacy. Kathy Keller received her graduate degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. She formerly served on the leadership team for Redeemer Presbyterian Church and is the author of one book. This will be the first year the Colson Award is presented jointly to a husband and wife. Their years of ministry together, though global in reach, always had a community focus, which mirrored much of Chuck Colsons work in the various ministries he led, including Prison Fellowship. Tim and Kathy Kellers ministry displayed a creative and imaginative evangelism, said Corey. They had eyes to see like Jesus, to speak to the large crowds and also notice the one, helpless or overlooked, on whom Christ had compassion. Like Jesus, they moved towards those who needed him most. They were people of conviction to the gospels work in all times and places, to biblical fidelity, to Gods sovereign grace. They were people of courage to engage in the life of the mind, to speak truth with kindness, to extend globally their vision for the church. Few leaders in the past century have been as committed to gospel conviction and courage quite like the Kellers, and few have been as humbly rooted in the way of Christ. I can think of no couple more fitting to receive the Colson Award. Previous recipients include Joni Eareckson Tada, John M. Perkins, Luis Palau, Robert P. George, and Andy Bales. News media is welcome to attend the ceremony. SOURCE Biola University CONTACT: Sarah Dougher, 562-906-4524, sarah.m.dougher@biola.edu BAODING, China, April 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- European Wellness Biomedical Group (EWBG) , a global pioneer in bioregenerative medicine and wellness innovation, today unveiled new breakthroughs in autism-focused therapies under the leadership of Prof. Mike Chan . Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects behaviour, communication, and social interaction. With conventional therapies offering limited improvements, these new bioregenerative strategies represent a promising step forward in the global pursuit of more effective, science-backed interventions. Prof. Mike Chan, renowned scientist, author, and Chairman of EWBG, continues to play a central role in advancing research that aims to address the complex challenges of ASD. Prof. Mike Chan captivates medical professionals at Baoding Childrens Hospital with his lecture on precursor stem cell therapy for autism, sparking dialogue on the future of pediatric healthcare and regenerative medicine in China. Backed by decades of research in cellular therapy, organotherapy, and precursor stem cell research, Prof. Chan is pioneering brain-specific and organ-targeted precursor stem cell therapy a potential game-changer for autism treatment . The untreatable is treatable, he affirms. April: Autism Awareness Month April is Autism Awareness Month , starting with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd , a UN- sanctioned day to raise awareness and promote acceptance of autism. This month highlights the importance of early diagnosis, accessible treatments, and inclusion. Researchers and advocacy groups use this time to showcase the latest advancements in autism therapies, making it an ideal moment to highlight Prof. Mike Chans pioneering work in regenerative medicine. According to recent statistics in 2023, approximately 1% or 75 million of the global population are living with ASD. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) estimates the prevalence of ASD to be 1 in 36 children . Furthermore, between 2011 and 2022, autism diagnoses in the U.S. surged by 175% (from 2.3/1000 persons to 6.3/1000 persons). These figures highlight the significant and increasing global impact of autism. Notably, Qatar and the UAE have the highest rates of autism in the world . A Personal Mission Prof. Mike Chans journey is deeply personal . Born autistic, he overcame early-life challenges and now channels that experience into a mission of transformation. His goal is to ensure every child on the spectrum can access life-changing treatments . All neurodevelopmental disorders are treatable , he declares. Autistic children are the future of the world and shouldnt be a stigma to society. I would like to treat every disabled child . Knowledge is key for parents, and the best doctors for autistic children are their parents, says Prof. Chan. Baoding: A Global Breakthrough Hub On March 1011, 2025 , during his second visit to Baoding, China , Prof. Chan took the stage with bold initiatives and global partnerships. Representing Germany as a Senator of BWA (Federal Association for Economic Development & Foreign Trade), he led multiple international collaborations, including: Establishing the International Stem Cell Therapy Joint Laboratory focused on autism and regenerative medicine. Partnering with Baoding Childrens Hospital for paediatric precursor stem cell therapy. High-level meetings with Chinese leaders , including Dang Xiaolong (Baoding Municipal Party Secretary) and Ma Yimin (Mayor of Baoding). Bringing education and precursor stem cell research to Baoding, aiming to cultivate local talent and global innovation. Strategic partnerships with German and Chinese medical institutions , bridging Eastern and Western medical knowledge. The Science Behind the Therapy Prof. Chans methodology is grounded in precision bioregenerative medicine , focused on targeted interventions for the brain and organs affected by autism. Key elements include: Neuroregeneration : Brain-specific stem cells help restore damaged neurons. : help restore damaged neurons. Neuroinflammation Reduction: Controlling inflammation through immune modulation. Oxidative Stress Management: Applying antioxidant therapy to reduce brain cell damage. Synaptic Plasticity : Supporting new synaptic connections for improved learning and behaviour. Gut-Brain Axis Support : Improving microbiota health to affect brain function. : Improving to affect brain function. Heavy Metal Detox: Removing toxins linked to neurodevelopmental issues. The main thing to do for autism is to prepare and treat the brain, the rest is secondary, Prof. Chan explains. This precision medicine approach enables individualized treatment plans, tailored to each child's neurological deficits. The therapy uses organ- and brain-specific Precursor Stem Cells (PSC), which are unipotent cells administered via deep intramuscular injection. These cells stimulate regeneration through homing, paracrine signaling, and cellular reactivation. New Research & Publications As part of his ongoing commitment to autism research, Prof. Mike Chan has published multiple medical books and scientific papers , offering insights into the latest developments in bioregenerative medicine , amongst them: Upcoming Autism Health Summit in San Diego Looking ahead, Prof. Mike Chan will be participating in the Autism Health Summit in San Diego on April 11-13, 2025 , where he will present the latest advancements in bioregenerative medicine for autism. This global event brings together leading experts, researchers, and medical professionals to discuss cutting-edge treatments and future directions in autism therapy. Prof. Mike Chans session will highlight real-world case studies, groundbreaking research, and the evolving role of stem cell therapy in transforming ASD care with case studies of children treated with Stem Cell Therapy (SCT). A Vision for the Future Prof. Mike Chans lifelong dedication to autism treatment is transforming the landscape of bioregenerative medicine . His pioneering precursor stem cell therapy protocols, international collaborations, and humanitarian initiatives are driving a global shift in how autism is understood and treated. Progress is key, says Prof. Mike Chan. With the right approach, we can help children with autism reach their fullest potential. The future of autism therapy lies in precision medicine, targeted neurological interventions, and global collaboration. Our mission is to ensure that no child is left behind. With Baoding emerging as a hub for autism research , the launch of a world-class stem cell therapy laboratory, the future of autism treatment is brighter than ever. Empowering Minds Prof. Mike Chan launches a book series on Autism and Stem Cell Therapy, providing families and medical professionals with valuable insights. Available at the European Wellness online bookstore: https://european-wellness.eu/books/. About European Wellness Biomedical Group (EWBG) European Wellness is a global leader in regenerative medicine and integrated healthcare solutions, with a mission to empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being. With a network of 46 premier centers and a team of highly skilled, multi-national doctors from around the world, the organisation is at the forefront of the wellness revolution, delivering innovative and personalized treatments to clients worldwide. Press inquiries European Wellness Biomedical Group (EWBG) https://european-wellness.eu/ Justin Chew & Gerald Chuah Email: media@european-wellness.com Tel: +60 88 448 989 European Wellness Premier Center, Block M, Alamesra, Lorong Plaza Utama 5, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b346892d-4df0-4156-a8e1-4f75a52b7add Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/08bb0295-abc9-48eb-9fc3-d395ca0a26c4 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8d4817c7-ce02-454f-9c06-8ce56466e0f3 Washington DC, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Link to ThinkCareBelieve's Article: https://thinkcarebelieve.blog/2025/03/31/week-11-under-president-trumps-leadership/ What an amazing week this has been. So many huge strides made. ThinkCareBelieve has published an article about America's Giant Leap into a beautiful new realm of a level playing field with trading partners in global markets with America's rebirth of American Industry. The article covers new huge issues found in Social Security, with Social Security Numbers being used by illegals with trillions of dollars being paid out fraudulently and illegally. But that's not the only thing DOGE has found this week- The U.S. Institute for Peace has been funding the Taliban and other terrorist groups. The implications of these findings are huge. But not as huge as the introduction of the Gold Card this week and we got a thorough look at President Trump's economic plan and it looks like its going to work splendidly. It's all happening so fast that we just don't realize how lucky we are to be living here in this time now. Gratitude to President Trump and his great team! Covered in ThinkCareBelieve's article this week: MS-13 Gang Members who were here illegally have been arrested for committing heinous crimes. America's Liberation Day and Rebirth of American Innovation. DOGE's discovery of hundreds of thousands of Social Security numbers being sold and used to defraud the American People and the Social Security System. The story of how The Institute for Peace was actually funding the Taliban and other terrorist groups for $164 million. All about Reciprocal Tariffs and how it will make America Wealthy again. First Lady speaking to Women's Courage and Bravery and how Love fueled her to get through the hardest times. A thorough assessment of President Trump's Economic Plan and it makes good sense. The amazing influx of global trade partners coming back to America and coming to the table to renegotiate unfair trade deals. First Look at the New Gold Card, which will be out in about 2 weeks and will bring in mega-income to pay off America's debt. Attorney General Pam Bondi gets serious about sending Domestic Terrorists attacking Tesla to prison for 20 years. A smashing Jobs Report with 228,000 new jobs added in March. The Department of Labor found $1.4 Billion of unspent Covid funding which is being returned to The People. The upcoming departure of Elon Musk from government work and how he will continue to stay in touch. An important alert from FBI Richmond about online child predators soliticing minors- Call the Tip Line for the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI with any information on child predators. Decreasing Border Encounters Much more What an amazing time to live in here and now. This is certainly the most amazing experience to watch the Trump Administration turn the country around, and We The People are a part of this partnership. Thank you God for allowing us to be alive now in this extraordinary era of change for the better. Thank you to all who are working tirelessly in perfect sync with the utmost care. ThinkCareBelieve is an outlook. ThinkCareBelieves mission for Peace advocacy facilitates positive outcomes and expanded possibilities. To achieve Peace, we will find the commonalities between diverse groups and bring the focus on common needs, working together toward shared goals. Activism is an important aspect of ThinkCareBelieve, because public participation and awareness to issues needing exposure to light leads to justice. Improved transparency in government can lead to changes in policy and procedure resulting in more fluid communication between the public and the government that serves them. America needs hope right now, and Americans need to be more involved in their government. ### Thanks to its new facilities, College Boreal is increasing access to high-quality programs in French and strengthening its collaborations. OTTAWA, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (Web version) College Boreal officially opened its expanded campus at 233 Main Street in Ottawa today. During the event, College Boreal President Daniel Giroux and Ottawa Campus Director Daniel St-Louis unveiled a major expansion, increasing the campus size to over 13,000 square feet (1,200 square metres). This $4.5 million project was made possible through funding from the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, and the Government of Canada under the Canada-Ontario Agreement on Minority-Language Education and Second Official-Language Instruction. Additionally, five new programs, unique in French-speaking Ontario, will be offered for the first time at the Ottawa campus, further increasing access to quality post-secondary programs in French. New facilities and state-of-the-art equipment Thanks to this expansion, College Boreal staff and students in Ottawa now have access to modern facilities and cutting-edge equipment, including: Five fully renovated classrooms A student success centre and an accessibility office A student lounge A new administrative area For the Veterinary Care Technician program: Two wet labs with state-of-the-art equipment An animal X-ray room equipped with new units Five new programs The expansion of College Boreals Ottawa campus makes it possible to offer five additional programs unique to the region: These programs complement the two already available at the Ottawa campus: Public Administration and Veterinary Care Technician. Quotes College Boreals latest achievement would not have been possible without the support of the provincial and federal governments, as well as our community and academic partners in the greater Ottawa area. Thanks to their trust and contributions, College Boreal continues to work with other institutions in the college and university sector to expand access to post-secondary education in French and provide Franco-Ontarian youth with employment opportunities that match their diverse skills. Daniel Giroux President, College Boreal With its new facilities and programs, College Boreal in Ottawa aims to meet the expectations of employers in Eastern Ontario by providing them with the skilled, French-speaking, and bilingual workforce that our region particularly needs. Whether working in the public sector, private businesses, community or social organizations, our future graduates will strengthen their industries and boost our local economy. Daniel St-Louis Director, College Boreal's Ottawa Campus Quick facts College Boreal has been present in Eastern Ontario since 1999 (originally at the University of Guelphs Alfred campus), offering its Veterinary Care Technician program the only one of its kind in French-speaking Ontario. Since relocating to Saint Paul Universitys campus in Ottawa in 2019, College Boreal has expanded its offerings, including a unique Public Administration program introduced in 2022. Related Links Information Benoit Clement Manager, Communications and Media Relations 705-560-6673, ext. 2722 benoit.clement@collegeboreal.ca A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e7372aad-4776-47fe-939a-aa21c2a54289 TORONTO, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE:GOLD)(TSX:ABX) has nominated Ben van Beurden and Pekka Vauramo for election to its Board of Directors at the companys Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders on May 6, 2025. Ben van Beurden, former chief executive of Shell, brings four decades of global experience in the energy and natural resources sectors. At Shell, he led the companys strategic transformation from an oil-focused business to a diversified energy leader, with a strong emphasis on natural gas and renewable energy investments. This transformation placed Shell among the top quartile of investors in energy transition. Mr. van Beurden is recognized for his strategic decision to simplify Shell's shareholding structure and consolidate the companys headquarters in London, benefiting shareholders and streamlining the organization. In addition to his leadership at Shell, Mr. van Beurden currently serves as senior advisor of energy transition investments at KKR, is an independent member of the Board of Supervisors of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and was recently elected chairman of Clariant, a Swiss listed multinational specialty chemicals company. Pekka Vauramo brings a wealth of leadership experience from the mining, logistics and services sectors. Most recently he served as chief executive of Metso, where he played a key role in the successful merger with Outotec in 2020, creating a leader in sustainable technologies for the aggregates, minerals processing and metals refining industries. Under his leadership, Metso Outotec strengthened its market position by divesting non-core assets, acquiring competitors and focusing on improving culture, customer satisfaction and profitability. Mr. Vauramo also served as CEO of Finnair, where he oversaw a significant financial turnaround and expanded the airlines reach into new Asian markets. His experience spans leadership roles at Cargotec, Sandvik and Outokumpu, where he honed his expertise in the mining sector, particularly in base metals. Additionally, Mr. Vauramo has extensive board experience, currently serving as chairman of the boards of Huhtamaki Oyj and Valmet Oyj, and as a member of the board of Nokian Renkaat Oyj, all Finnish listed companies. Barrick chairman John Thornton said Messrs. van Beurden and Vauramo would bring valuable insights to the Boards deliberations. Both bring exceptional leadership, a global perspective and deep industry knowledge that will be instrumental in driving Barricks strategy forward. Their expertise in sustainable business practices, operational excellence and global market understanding will support our commitment to delivering long-term value to shareholders, while maintaining our leadership in responsible mining. Enquiries Investor and Media Relations Kathy du Plessis +44 20 7557 7738 Email: barrick@dpapr.com Website: www.barrick.com EVANSVILLE, Ind., April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- First Federal Savings Bank, a member bank of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (FHLBank Indianapolis), awarded United Caring Services $27,500 in grant funds through the Community Multiplier Member Match Program The $27,500 grant will support United Caring Services mission to help transition individuals out of homelessness and into permanent housing solutions. We are proud to partner with United Caring Services in support of their vital mission to help individuals transition out of homelessness and into stable, permanent housing, said Courtney Schmitt, VP, Marketing Manager at First Federal Savings Bank. Through programs like Care Ride and essential assistance in obtaining Social Security, VA, and other benefits, United Caring Services provides a path forward for those in need. This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting long-term, sustainable solutions that strengthen lives and our community as a whole. This partnership with First Federal Savings Bank comes at a critical time when funds are needed to help get our guests to these vital services, said Ryan Rigg, Executive Director of United Caring Services. The majority of guests do not have transportation which is often a barrier to transition out of homelessness and this program will help us to overcome that barrier. The Community Multiplier Member Match program is FHLBank Indianapolis newest program offering, designed to support targeted affordable housing initiatives that fall outside of FHLBank Indianapolis other grant programs. Community Multiplier offers grants between $25,000 and $125,000 for non-profit organizations headquartered in Indiana or Michigan who partner with an FHLBank Indianapolis member financial institution on targeted affordable housing initiatives. With a 10% matching funds commitment from the member financial institution, FHLBank Indianapolis is providing grants between $25,000 and $125,000. The program opened March 27, 2025 with a $5 million allocation and is available until October 1, 2025, or until funds are exhausted. Youre Invited To celebrate this meaningful partnership, First Federal Savings Bank and United Caring Services will host a press conference and check presentation ceremony on Tuesday, April 8 at 2:00 PM CST at First Federal Savings Banks corporate headquarters located at 5001 Davis Lant Drive Evansville, IN 47715. We invite the members of the media, community partners, and the public to join us as we present a $27,500 contribution in support of United Caring Services mission to help individuals transition out of homelessness and into permanent housing solutions. About First Federal Savings Bank Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender First Federal Savings Bank was established on Evansville, Indiana's Westside in 1904. A community bank offering eight locations in Posey, Vanderburgh, Warrick, and Henderson County. First Federal Savings Bank is also proud to offer Home Building Savings Bank locations in Daviess and Pike County. Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis: Building Partnerships. Serving Communities. FHLBank Indianapolis is a regional bank included in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. FHLBanks are government-sponsored enterprises created by Congress to ensure access to low-cost funding for their member financial institutions, with particular attention paid to providing solutions that support the housing and small business needs of members' customers. FHLBanks are privately capitalized and funded and receive no Congressional appropriations. FHLBank Indianapolis is owned by its Indiana and Michigan financial institution members, including commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, savings institutions and community development financial institutions. For more information about FHLBank Indianapolis, visit www.fhlbi.com and follow the Bank on LinkedIn and X (formerly known as Twitter) at @FHLBankIndy. New Vein System With Higher Grades Adds to Future Potential Gold Resource Corp. (NYSE American: GORO) (the "Company") is pleased to announce a summary of the 2024 exploration drill results at the Companies Don David Gold Mine ("DDGM") in Oaxaca, Mexico. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250403205919/en/ Cross-section looking northwest at the North Arista, Three Sisters and Switchback vein systems with 2024 drill holes. "We are excited to share the positive results of our 2024 exploration drilling program that indicate that the Three Sisters and Gloria vein systems will be significant contributors to our future resource at Don David," stated Allen Palmiere. "The discovery and definition of the system is exciting and is a testament to our team's dedication and expertise. These new vein systems have the potential to not only add to our resource potential but to also will enhance our bottom line with improved accessibility and reduced production costs. Underground development has recently intersected the system and the sample results thus far have confirmed the previous drill results. We remain committed to developing this system into the future mine plan and further advancing our exploration efforts with the goal of maximizing shareholder value and organic growth." 2024 EXPLORATION SUMMARY The 2024 exploration drill program focused on underground infill and expansion drilling within the Three Sisters and Gloria vein systems as well as in veins of the North Arista system. Significant vein widths and grades identified through drilling have reinforced the emergence of the Three Sisters and Gloria systems as a major third vein system at DDGM, located between and north of the Arista and Switchback systems. The program yielded encouraging results, which were included in the updated S-K 1300 Technical Report Summary for DDGM released on March 5, 2025 (the "Report"), further demonstrating the potential of these vein systems. The Company believes that the mine has significant potential to generate positive cash flow from the new areas of Three Sisters and Gloria, as well as other areas that have been discovered near the existing mining zones. These new vein systems offer easily accessible resources, situated close to the current mine portal and at significantly higher elevations than current production areas. The location of these vein systems should result in reduced haulage costs and reduced total production costs. In order to develop access and better define these new areas, an investment must be made in additional equipment and development. 2024 Drill Results: The exploration program included 23 underground infill and expansion drill holes, totaling 7,671 meters of diamond drilling at DDGM. Notable high-grade intersections were identified, advancing our exploration objectives by confirming the continuity and quality of polymetallic mineralization up-dip and along strike. The program confirmed and upgraded mineral resources from previous drilling campaigns within the Three Sisters and Gloria vein systems as well as in veins of the North Arista system. The Company expects to conduct additional exploration development in 2025 to enable further infill and expansion drilling to the northwest of the current defined vein extents in the Three Sisters/Gloria zone. Below are select 2024 exploration infill drill results, including Gold Equivalent1 ("AuEq") and Net Smelter Return2 ("NSR") values from the Three Sisters and Gloria vein systems. All drill hole length composites are presented as Estimated True Widths3 ("ETW") in meters. Hole No. 524001: Sandy 1 vein 6.85 m with 3.40 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $242/t Includes: 2.07 m with 6.71 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $476/t Hole No. 524005: Sandy 2 vein 4.70 m with 15.53 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $966/t Includes: 2.01 m with 21.08 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $1,298/t Hole No. 524005: Gloria vein 3.00 m with 7.67 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $535/t Includes: 1.22 m with 16.47 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $1,142/t Hole No. 524008: Gloria vein 12.30 m with 4.77 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $348/t Includes: 3.71 m with 6.17 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $487/t Hole No. 524011: Sandy 1 vein 8.03 m with 1.04 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $152/t Includes: 4.58 m with 1.35 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $199/t Hole No. 524011: Sandy 2 vein 3.89 m with 6.22 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $435/t Includes: 3.13 m with 9.20 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $632/t Hole No. 524015: Sadie 2 vein 6.00 m with 5.53 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $405/t Includes: 3.14 m with 9.70 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $691/t Hole No. 524027: Sadie 2 vein 4.48 m with 16.65 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $1,073/t Includes: 1.01 m with 36.10 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $2,314/t Hole No. 524031: Sandy 2 vein 8.72 m with 5.03 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $347/t Includes: 1.39 m with 25.09 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $1,667/t Hole No. 524042: Sadie 2 vein 5.33 m with 10.26 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $666/t Includes: 1.98 m with 13.77 g/t AuEq and NSR value of $893/t __________________________ 1 Gold Equivalent ("AuEq") g/t is calculated using only gold and silver grades using an Au:Ag ratio of 89:11 and metal prices of y $2,760/oz gold and $31oz silver. 2 Net Smelter Return ("NSR") is a calculated value of the estimated net revenues per tonne less transportation and refining costs and other miscellaneous payables. The NSR values calculated utilize metal price estimates of $2,760/oz gold, $31/oz silver, $4.15/lb copper, $0.89/lb lead and $1.31/lb zinc. 3 Estimated True Width ("ETW") for reported vein intercepts are based on 3D models of the individual veins. Estimates are determined in cross-section by measuring the modelled vein thickness perpendicular to the vein margins and through the midpoint of the drill hole intercept. Differences between individual ETW's and downhole interval lengths will vary between drill holes, depending on drill hole inclination, variations in vein strike and dip, and overall geometries of the different vein systems. Three Sisters and Gloria Vein Systems Initial drill intercepts into what is now referred to as the Three Sisters vein system were made in 2017 from underground drill stations in the Arista vein system while targeting northern extensions of veins in the Switchback system. Significant progress in defining this third vein system at DDGM occurred in 2022 and 2023, thanks to targeted underground exploration drilling guided by geologic re-interpretation. In 2024, the geologic model for the Three Sisters and Gloria vein systems was refined and improved using all available underground drill data in preparation for the 2024 year-end resource update. The Three Sisters and Gloria vein systems remain open to the northwest, up-dip and at depth. Positive results to date have guided the direction of both infill and expansion (step-out) drill programs at DDGM. Mine Development - Three Sisters In December 2024, DDGM commenced drift development to access the Three Sisters vein system. The development on Level 4 has successfully intersected the Sandy 1 and Sandy 2 veins, revealing widths of up to 7.5 meters within a complex of colloform banded, hydrothermal breccia quartz veins. Detailed production channel sampling of these veins has confirmed high-grade results, with individual samples returning up to 44.23 AuEq and $2,780/t NSR4. __________________________ 4 Individual production channel sample of 0.8 m width. Assays by Corporacion Quimica Platinum S.A. de C.V., Guanajuato, Mexico, an independent laboratory accredited by the Mexican Accreditation Entity, A.C. (Entidad Mexicana de Acreditacion, A.C. (EMA)). Life of Mine Plan The 2024 year-end estimates of Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources included in the report are the base of DDGM's Life of Mine ("LOM") plan. Conceptual stopes were created using Deswik Stope Optimizer software, applying a $120/t NSR cut-off grade. These stopes were then integrated into mine designs and schedules within Deswik to obtain the updated LOM plan. All stopes were evaluated for economic viability, with non-viable stopes excluded from the plan. As of year-end 2024, measured and indicated Mineral Resources have a conversion rate of 88% to the LOM plan while inferred Mineral Resources have a conversion rate of 74%, resulting in a total average conversion rate of 80% of estimated Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources. Compared to the 2023 LOM plan, the 2024 LOM plan reflects a 10% increase in estimated Mineral Resources, primarily driven by a 307% increase of Mineral Resources in the Three Sisters area. Conversely, the Arista and Switchback areas show a decrease in Mineral Resources due to depletion. Additionally, some of the observed increase can be attributed to higher metal prices used in the NSR calculations. Total Resource in LOM Category YE 2024 Tonnes Conversion Rate % Measured & Indicated 1,322,000 88 Inferred 1,838,000 74 TOTAL 3,160,000 80 Measured and Indicated Resource in LOM Zone YE 2023 Tonnes YE 2024 Tonnes Difference Tonnes % Arista 505,356 421,770 (83,586) -17 Switchback 500,260 218,770 (281,722) -56 Three Sisters 57,890 526,152 468,262 809 TOTAL 1,063,506 1,166,460 102,954 10 Inferred Resource in LOM Zone YE 2023 Tonnes YE 2024 Tonnes Difference Tonnes % Arista 297,180 414,054 116,874 39 Switchback 219,069 285,658 66,589 30 Three Sisters 234,014 662,749 428,735 183 TOTAL 750,263 1,362,461 612,198 82 All Resource in LOM Zone YE 2023 Tonnes YE 2024 Tonnes Difference Tonnes % Arista 802,536 835,824 33,288 4 Switchback 719,329 504,196 (215,133) -30 Three Sisters 291,904 1,188,901 896,997 307 TOTAL 1,813,769 2,528,921 715,152 39 NI43-101 Technical Report for Don David Gold Mine filed on SEDAR+ As per Canadian securities laws, the Company is pleased to announce that following the release of the Report, the Company has filed a corresponding National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report for DDGM (the "43-101 Report"). The qualified persons for purposes of the 43-101 Report are the same individuals named in the Company's March 5, 2025 news release who prepared the S-K 1300 Technical Report. The 43-101 Report is available for review on SEDAR+ at www.sedar.com Select 2024 Infill and Expansion Drill Results5 - Three Sisters, Goria and North Arista Vein Systems HOLE VEIN FROM TO INTERVAL ETW* AU AG AuEq CU PB ZN NSR ID (m) (m) (m) (m) ( g/t ) ( g/t ) (g/t) ( % ) ( % ) ( % ) ($/t) 524001 Sadie 2 291.55 294.22 2.67 2.63 1.47 60 2.14 0.06 0.18 0.43 130 Incl. 293.00 294.22 1.22 1.20 2.68 76 3.53 0.12 0.36 0.86 215 524001 Sandy 1 298.87 305.82 6.95 6.85 1.51 168 3.40 0.17 0.97 2.01 242 Incl. 303.72 305.82 2.10 2.07 2.41 383 6.71 0.38 1.69 3.39 476 524005 Sandy 2 338.57 343.54 4.97 4.70 14.13 125 15.53 0.32 2.83 7.13 966 Incl. 338.57 340.69 2.12 2.01 18.55 226 21.08 0.40 3.77 8.15 1,298 524005 Sasha 2 351.61 355.82 4.21 3.65 2.22 31 2.56 0.12 0.98 2.70 187 Incl. 352.79 355.12 2.33 2.02 3.32 35 3.71 0.15 1.30 3.85 267 524005 Gloria 365.78 369.70 3.92 3.00 0.86 607 7.67 0.38 1.09 2.42 535 Incl. 365.78 367.37 1.59 1.22 1.79 1309 16.47 0.72 2.30 5.06 1,142 524008 Sandy 2 287.44 295.48 8.04 3.35 1.85 155 3.59 0.03 0.09 0.23 213 Incl. 292.24 294.75 2.51 1.04 5.14 245 7.89 0.04 0.15 0.31 453 524008 Gloria 317.73 330.07 12.34 12.30 3.97 71 4.77 0.29 2.27 4.15 348 Incl. 322.47 326.19 3.72 3.71 5.16 90 6.17 0.25 5.09 6.85 487 524008 Splay Gloria 385.65 391.78 6.13 2.59 1.55 30 1.89 0.22 0.83 3.68 166 Incl. 387.63 389.40 1.77 0.75 3.44 36 3.84 0.24 0.59 2.76 257 524011 Sandy 1 335.62 346.10 10.48 8.03 0.60 40 1.04 0.17 2.35 4.93 152 Incl. 338.93 344.91 5.98 4.58 0.83 47 1.35 0.19 3.14 6.60 199 524011 Sandy 2 347.16 353.38 6.22 3.89 5.86 33 6.22 0.24 1.62 6.18 435 Incl. 349.44 353.38 3.94 3.13 8.72 42 9.20 0.32 2.36 8.51 632 524011 Sasha 2 357.83 361.67 3.84 3.24 1.67 32 2.02 0.16 1.34 3.47 174 Incl. 360.08 361.67 1.59 1.34 2.97 50 3.53 0.19 2.40 6.04 299 524015 Sadie 2 324.72 331.64 6.92 6.00 1.36 372 5.53 0.60 1.06 2.63 405 Incl. 325.88 329.50 3.62 3.14 2.10 677 9.70 0.87 1.54 3.73 691 524022 Sandy 1 241.28 245.85 4.57 2.94 0.73 257 3.61 0.15 0.44 1.05 245 Incl. 242.33 243.50 1.17 0.75 0.54 321 4.14 0.17 0.56 1.38 287 524022 Sandy 2 255.72 259.58 3.86 2.48 0.61 233 3.23 0.15 0.51 1.18 224 Incl. 258.61 259.58 0.97 0.62 1.28 362 5.34 0.13 0.74 1.78 360 524024 Gloria 248.86 254.31 5.45 3.86 1.48 39 1.92 0.44 2.64 9.89 272 Incl. 250.27 253.00 2.73 1.93 2.10 35 2.49 0.44 3.31 14.66 366 524027 Sadie FW 142.61 146.00 3.39 2.60 0.26 364 4.35 0.01 0.05 0.13 276 Incl. 145.41 146.00 0.59 0.45 0.21 769 8.84 0.01 0.15 0.27 564 524027 Sadie 2 261.99 267.16 5.17 4.48 2.08 1299 16.65 0.32 0.63 1.53 1,073 Incl. 266.00 267.16 1.16 1.01 3.01 2950 36.10 0.81 0.44 1.44 2,314 524027 Sandy 1 270.22 272.87 2.65 2.29 0.85 435 5.73 0.23 0.33 0.84 378 Incl. 271.15 272.25 1.10 0.95 1.34 793 10.24 0.45 0.64 1.69 681 524029 Sadie HW 217.00 219.75 2.75 2.25 0.61 310 4.09 0.04 0.09 0.25 259 Incl. 218.11 219.75 1.64 1.34 0.89 438 5.80 0.05 0.14 0.36 367 524029 Sadie 2 295.68 297.92 2.24 1.93 0.21 363 4.28 0.01 0.11 0.37 275 Incl. 297.10 297.92 0.82 0.71 0.56 963 11.36 0.03 0.29 0.92 730 524031 Sandy 2 302.92 315.17 12.25 8.72 1.69 298 5.03 0.24 0.96 2.08 347 Incl. 302.92 304.73 1.81 1.39 4.80 1809 25.09 0.55 3.32 5.53 1,667 524033 Splay Gloria 295.29 302.06 6.77 4.35 0.45 42 0.91 1.18 1.37 2.97 153 Incl. 297.90 300.16 2.26 1.45 0.26 50 0.82 1.70 1.81 3.21 178 524034 Splay Gloria FW 459.64 466.03 6.39 5.53 0.19 28 0.50 0.12 0.85 5.65 112 Incl. 459.64 461.76 2.12 1.83 0.47 37 0.88 0.23 1.63 7.44 168 524037 Sandy 1 334.70 336.93 2.23 1.83 1.07 288 4.29 0.05 0.08 0.12 266 Incl. 334.70 335.67 0.97 0.80 2.26 504 7.91 0.02 0.07 0.15 481 524037 Sandy 2 339.75 342.91 3.16 2.24 0.57 461 5.74 0.06 0.14 0.30 365 Incl. 340.96 342.91 1.95 1.38 0.89 733 9.12 0.06 0.19 0.40 578 524042 Sadie HW 296.60 300.42 3.82 2.93 1.30 127 2.72 0.03 0.08 0.14 163 Incl. 297.24 298.31 1.07 0.82 2.41 144 4.03 0.02 0.09 0.16 234 524042 Sadie 2 301.48 309.06 7.58 5.33 1.89 746 10.26 0.21 0.78 1.46 666 Incl. 306.25 309.06 2.81 1.98 1.98 1051 13.77 0.26 1.16 1.37 893 524046 Splay 31 253.08 258.40 5.32 2.66 1.54 116 2.84 0.30 11.33 12.69 456 Incl. 256.19 257.94 1.75 0.88 1.63 225 4.15 0.22 27.84 17.48 780 524048 Marena North 122.71 125.26 2.55 2.51 0.52 56 1.15 0.25 2.45 3.65 149 Incl. 124.31 125.26 0.95 0.94 1.29 133 2.78 0.30 6.36 9.16 356 524054 Marena North 118.02 120.94 2.92 2.24 0.43 38 0.86 0.21 2.34 2.83 119 Incl. 118.02 119.21 1.19 0.91 0.99 83 1.92 0.29 5.59 5.80 256 524055 Splay 31 248.06 252.00 3.94 3.02 0.27 52 0.86 0.10 0.78 11.68 203 Incl. 250.78 252.00 1.22 0.94 0.43 104 1.60 0.09 1.69 17.75 331 ___________________________ 5 Assays by ALS, Vancouver, BC Canada. The Company conducts a significant QA/QC program which includes the insertion of assay standards, blanks, and duplicates in the sample stream to ensure the assay lab results are within specified performance levels. About GRC: Gold Resource Corporation is a gold and silver producer, developer, and explorer with its operations centered on the Don David Gold Mine in Oaxaca, Mexico. Under the direction of an experienced board and senior leadership team, the Company's focus is to unlock the significant upside potential of its existing infrastructure and large land position surrounding the mine in Oaxaca, Mexico and to develop the Back Forty Project in Michigan, USA. For more information, please visit the Company's website, located at www.goldresourcecorp.com. Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking words such as "plan," "target," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend" and "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, (i) the potential of the Three Sisters and Gloria vein systems and the Company's expectation regarding its drilling and exploration activities in 2025. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon information available to the Company as of the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those discussed in this press release. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including delays or challenges in satisfying the closing conditions of the offering. Additional risks related to the Company may be found in the periodic and current reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by the Company, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, which are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250403205919/en/ Contact Allen Palmiere Chief Executive Officer and President www.goldresourcecorp.com 303-320-7708 KELLOGG, April 03, 2025 - Bunker Hill Mining Corp. ("Bunker Hill" or the "Company") (TSXV:BNKR | OTCQB:BHLL) announces that it has elected to issue an aggregate of up to 187,500 shares of common stock ("Common Shares") of the Company (the "Interest Shares") to certain holders of 7.5% convertible debentures (the "Series 1 Convertible Debentures") in satisfaction of the interest payable as of March 31, 2025 under such Series 1 Convertible Debentures in the aggregate amount of US$18,750 (the "Interest Payment"). The Series 1 Convertible Debentures currently mature on March 31, 2028. In accordance with the terms of the Series 1 Convertible Debentures, the Company will issue the Interest Shares at a deemed price of US$0.10 per Interest Share based on 90% of the 10-day volume weighted average trading price of the Common Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSX-V") for the trading days beginning on March 10, 2025 and ending on March 21, 2025 (the "Pricing Period"). The issuance of the Interest Shares remains subject to the receipt of all regulatory and stock exchange approvals. Once issued, the Interest Shares will be subject to a four (4) month and one (1) day hold period from the applicable date of issuance in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. The Interest Shares have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act and all applicable state securities laws or in compliance with the requirements of an applicable exemption therefrom. Additional details regarding the Series 1 Convertible Debentures can be found in the Company's news releases dated December 20, 2021, January 31, 2022, June 26, 2023 and August 8, 2024, all of which are available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. ABOUT BUNKER HILL MINING CORP. Bunker Hill Mining Corp. is an American mineral exploration and development company focused on revitalizing our historic mining asset: the renowned zinc, silver, and lead deposit in northern Idaho's prolific Coeur d'Alene mining district. Our strategic initiative aims to breathe new life into a once-productive mine, leveraging modern exploration techniques and sustainable development practices to unlock the potential of this mineral-rich region. On behalf of Bunker Hill Sam Ash President, Chief Executive Officer and Director For additional information, please contact: Brenda Dayton Vice President, Investor Relations T: 604.417.7952 E: brenda.dayton@bunkerhillmining.com Cautionary Statements Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements are within the meaning of that term in Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as well as within the meaning of the phrase 'forward-looking information' in the Canadian Securities Administrators' National Instrument 51-102 - Continuous Disclosure Obligations (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "estimates", "may", "could", "would", "will", "plan" or variations of such words and phrases. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: the Company's objectives, goals or future plans, including the restart and development of the Bunker Hill Mine; the achievement of future short-term, medium-term and long-term operational strategies; the terms and completion of the Interest Payment described herein, including the number and deemed pricing of the Interest Shares issuable in connection therewith; and the Company receiving all regulatory and stock exchange approvals for the Interest Payment. Forward-looking statements reflect material expectations and assumptions, including, without limitation, expectations and assumptions relating to: Bunker Hill's ability to complete the share transactions on the terms described herein or at all; Bunker Hill's ability to receive sufficient project financing for the restart and ongoing development of the Bunker Hill Mine on acceptable terms or at all; the future price of metals; and the stability of the financial and capital markets. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those risks and uncertainties identified in public filings made by Bunker Hill with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and with applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities, and the following: the Company's inability to raise additional capital for project activities, including through equity financings, concentrate offtake financings or otherwise; capital market conditions; restrictions on labor and its effects on international travel and supply chains; failure to identify mineral resources; failure to convert estimated mineral resources to reserves; the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results; the Company's ability to restart and develop the Bunker Hill Mine and the risks of not basing a production decision on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability, resulting in increased uncertainty due to multiple technical and economic risks of failure which are associated with this production decision including, among others, areas that are analyzed in more detail in a feasibility study, such as applying economic analysis to resources and reserves, more detailed metallurgy and a number of specialized studies in areas such as mining and recovery methods, market analysis, and environmental and community impacts and, as a result, there may be an increased uncertainty of achieving any particular level of recovery of minerals or the cost of such recovery, including increased risks associated with developing a commercially mineable deposit, with no guarantee that production will begin as anticipated or at all or that anticipated production costs will be achieved; failure to commence production would have a material adverse impact on the Company's ability to generate revenue and cash flow to fund operations; failure to achieve the anticipated production costs would have a material adverse impact on the Company's cash flow and future profitability; delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals; political risks; changes in equity markets; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inability of the Company to budget and manage its liquidity in light of the failure to obtain additional financing, including the ability of the Company to complete the payments pursuant to the terms of the agreement to acquire the Bunker Hill Mine complex; inflation; changes in exchange rates; fluctuations in commodity prices; delays in the development of projects; and capital, operating and reclamation costs varying significantly from estimates and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such statements or information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all, including as to whether or when the Company will achieve its project finance initiatives, or as to the actual size or terms of those financing initiatives. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing risks and uncertainties are not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other risk factors that could affect the Company's operations or financial results are included in the Company's annual report and may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) or through EDGAR on the SEC website (www.sec.gov). TORONTO, April 04, 2025 - Labrador Gold Corp. (TSX.V: LAB | OTCQB: NKOSF | FNR: 2N6) ("LabGold" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on the Company's strategic progress, including its ongoing efforts to secure a significant gold project, as well as recent developments concerning its New Found Gold holdings. Project Acquisition Update As part of its growth strategy, Labrador Gold is actively pursuing a significant gold project with substantial resource potential. Since the beginning of this initiative, the Company has reviewed over 40 projects, with a particular focus on Canadian-based opportunities. After an extensive process, evaluating each project based on a combination of geological potential, development timeline, jurisdictional stability, and alignment with the Company's long-term growth strategy the Company has narrowed its search to a select group of promising candidates. Sale of New Found Gold Shares The Company has successfully completed the sale of the New Found Gold shares acquired in the sale of the Kingsway project to New Found Gold in 2024. Over a period of approximately four months, Labrador Gold sold the full 5,263,157 shareholding at an average price of $2.322 per share. This transaction resulted in total net proceeds of $12,188,782 which strengthens the Company's cash position and supports ongoing strategic initiatives. Hopedale Project Junior Exploration Assistance Contribution LabGold has also received $126,804.71 from the Newfoundland and Labrador government Mineral Incentive Program - Junior Exploration Assistance as a contribution to our successful 2024 exploration program (see News Release dated October 24, 2024) at the Hopedale Project. This funding underscores the province's strong commitment to supporting junior exploration companies and reinforces Labrador Gold's confidence in advancing its exploration activities in this highly prospective region. "We are grateful to the Newfoundland and Labrador government for their continued support through the Junior Exploration Assistance Program, which facilitates our exploration efforts at the Hopedale Project," said Roger Moss, CEO of Labrador Gold Corp. "Such continued backing of the mineral industry from the provincial government is just one of the reasons why Newfoundland and Labrador is considered one of the most attractive jurisdictions for mineral exploration and development worldwide." Moss continued, "With a strong cash position of approximately $18.1 million, LabGold is in a highly advantageous position to execute on its strategy of securing a significant gold project and advancing it through methodical and value-driven exploration. We remain enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead and are committed to delivering value to our shareholders. As we move forward on our journey, we will keep all stakeholders informed with timely updates on our progress." Qualified Person Roger Moss, PhD., P.Geo., President and CEO of LabGold, a Qualified Person in accordance with Canadian regulatory requirements as set out in NI 43-101, has read and approved the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for the disclosure contained in this release. The Company gratefully acknowledges the Newfoundland and Labrador Ministry of Natural Resources' 2023 Junior Exploration Assistance (JEA) Program and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency's Critical Minerals Assistance for its financial support for exploration of the Hopedale property. About Labrador Gold Labrador Gold is a Canadian based mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and exploration of prospective gold projects in Eastern Canada. The Company has approximately $18.1 million in cash. The Hopedale property covers much of the Archean-age Florence Lake greenstone belt that stretches over 60 km. The belt is typical of greenstone belts around the world but has been underexplored by comparison. Work to date by Labrador Gold show gold anomalies in rocks, soils and lake sediments over a 3 kilometre section of the northern portion of the Florence Lake greenstone belt. Five gold occurrences lie along this trend, four of which Thurber Boundary, Thurber North, TD500 and Thurber South were discovered by LabGold. Anomalous gold in soil and lake sediment samples also occur over approximately 40 km along the southern section of the greenstone belt. LabGold's recent exploration has also demonstrated the potential for the critical metals copper, nickel and cobalt in the belt. The Borden Lake project near Chapleau, Ontario lies immediately southeast of Newmont Corporation's Borden gold mine currently being acquired by Discovery Silver Corp. LabGold's past exploration on the property identified two anomalous zones based on geochemistry, including up to 48 gold grains in till samples, and geophysics, one in the north extending over 1.3km northwest-southeast and another in the south extending over 1km north-south. The Company has 170,009,979 common shares issued and outstanding and trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol LAB. For more information please contact: Roger Moss, President and CEO Tel: 416-704-8291 Or visit our website at: www.labradorgold.com X @LabGoldCorp Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. When used in this document, the words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause our actual results to differ materially from the statements made, including those factors discussed in filings made by us with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties, such as actual results of current exploration programs, the general risks associated with the mining industry, the price of gold and other metals, currency and interest rate fluctuations, increased competition and general economic and market factors, occur or should assumptions underlying the forward looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, or expected. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Almonty Industries Inc. (TSX: AII) (ASX: AII) (OTCQX: ALMTF) (Frankfurt: ALI) ("Almonty" or the "Company"), a leading global producer of tungsten concentrate, is pleased to confirm that, based on currently available information, its operations and product exports are not affected by the recent Executive Order issued by the United States government regarding reciprocal tariffs on select imports. The Executive Order published on April 2, 2025, outlines new tariff measures targeting specific Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes. Following a detailed review of Annex I and Annex II of the order titled "Regulating Imports with a Reciprocal Tariff to Rectify Trade Practices that Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits," we can confirm that Almonty's tungsten ore, concentrates, oxide, and related materials are not subject to the newly imposed tariffs. These products - including those classified under HTS codes 2611.00.30, 2611.00.60, and 2825.90.30 - are explicitly excluded from the action, as listed in Annex II. This confirmation not only ensures the continued stability of Almonty's trade flows but also highlights the Company's role in supporting a secure and diversified supply chain to the United States. It underscores the strategic importance of tungsten, particularly in advancing U.S. interests in national defense, critical manufacturing, and supply chain resilience. Tungsten has long been recognized as a critical mineral by the U.S. government, with key applications across aerospace, defense systems, high-performance electronics, and clean energy technologies. Almonty remains firmly committed to developing and maintaining a reliable, western-based supply chain for tungsten, working in close collaboration with its partners and stakeholders to meet the growing demand for secure and sustainable access to critical minerals for the U.S. and its allies. Lewis Black, President & CEO of Almonty, commented: "We are thrilled with this confirmation, which reinforces Almonty's position as a key player in the global tungsten supply chain. The explicit exclusion of our products from the new tariff measures highlights the strategic importance of tungsten in supporting the national security, industrial independence, and resilient supply chains of American industry. Almonty has been a consistent supplier of tungsten materials to the United States for many years, and we are proud to hold a long-term offtake agreement with Global Tungsten & Powders (GTP), a leading U.S. processor headquartered in Pennsylvania. This relationship further solidifies our role in strengthening domestic supply chains at a time when reducing dependence on Chinese-sourced critical minerals has become a top priority for Western governments. As we advance our fully integrated mine-to-processing operations, Almonty is on track to become one of the most important vertically integrated tungsten producers in the Western world, positioned to supply a significant portion of non-China sourced tungsten. We remain fully committed to supporting allied economies in securing long-term, stable access to this essential critical mineral, and look forward to deepening our partnerships across the defense, semiconductor, and high-tech manufacturing sectors." About Almonty Almonty Industries Inc. is a diversified and experienced global producer of tungsten concentrate in conflict-free regions. The company is currently mining, processing and shipping tungsten concentrate from its Panasqueira mine in Portugal. Its Sangdong tungsten mine in Gangwon Province, South Korea is currently under construction. The Sangdong mine was historically one of the largest tungsten mines in the world and one of the few long-life, high-grade tungsten deposits outside of China, and has significant upside potential from an underlying molybdenum deposit. Additional development projects underway include the Valtreixal tin/tungsten project in northwestern Spain and Los Santos Mine in western Spain. Further information about Almonty's activities may be found at www.almonty.com and under Almonty's profile at www.sedar.com. Legal Notice The release, publication, or distribution of this announcement in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law and therefore persons in such jurisdictions into which this announcement is released, published, or distributed should inform themselves about and observe such restrictions. Neither the TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. These statements and information are based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and reflect Almonty's current expectations. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Almonty to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: any specific risks relating to fluctuations in the price of ammonium para tungstate ("APT") from which the sale price of Almonty's tungsten concentrate is derived, actual results of mining and exploration activities, environmental, economic and political risks of the jurisdictions in which Almonty's operations are located and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, forecasts and assessments relating to Almonty's business, credit and liquidity risks, hedging risk, competition in the mining industry, risks related to the market price of Almonty's shares, the ability of Almonty to retain key management employees or procure the services of skilled and experienced personnel, risks related to claims and legal proceedings against Almonty and any of its operating mines, risks relating to unknown defects and impairments, risks related to the adequacy of internal control over financial reporting, risks related to governmental regulations, including environmental regulations, risks related to international operations of Almonty, risks relating to exploration, development and operations at Almonty's tungsten mines, the ability of Almonty to obtain and maintain necessary permits, the ability of Almonty to comply with applicable laws, regulations and permitting requirements, lack of suitable infrastructure and employees to support Almonty's mining operations, uncertainty in the accuracy of mineral reserves and mineral resources estimates, production estimates from Almonty's mining operations, inability to replace and expand mineral reserves, uncertainties related to title and indigenous rights with respect to mineral properties owned directly or indirectly by Almonty, the ability of Almonty to obtain adequate financing, the ability of Almonty to complete permitting, construction, development and expansion, challenges related to global financial conditions, risks related to future sales or issuance of equity securities, differences in the interpretation or application of tax laws and regulations or accounting policies and rules and acceptance of the TSX of the listing of Almonty shares on the TSX. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to, no material adverse change in the market price of ammonium para tungstate (APT), the continuing ability to fund or obtain funding for outstanding commitments, expectations regarding the resolution of legal and tax matters, no negative change to applicable laws, the ability to secure local contractors, employees and assistance as and when required and on reasonable terms, and such other assumptions and factors as are set out herein. Although Almonty has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results, level of activity, performance or achievements not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and even if events or results described in the forward-looking statements are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, Almonty. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and are cautioned that actual outcomes may vary. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. Almonty cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on Almonty's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Almonty has also assumed that material factors will not cause any forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250404377262/en/ Contact Company Lewis Black Chairman, President & CEO +1 647 438-9766 info@almonty.com Investor Relations Lucas A. Zimmerman Managing Director MZ Group - MZ North America (949) 259-4987 ALMTF@mzgroup.us www.mzgroup.us Canary Gold Corp. (CSE: BRAZ, Frankfurt: K5D) (the "Company" or "Canary Gold") is pleased to announce that it has mobilized an Air Core drill rig to begin reconnaissance phase drill testing of gold targets at its flagship Madeira Gold Project in Rondonia, Brazil. This Air Core* drilling program, Canary's first since beginning exploration in late 2024, is designed to provide critical 3D geological insights. The drilling will extend from the surface through shallow, unconsolidated sedimentary cover to intersect and sample the targeted, horizontally layered, gold-bearing sequences above and at the hard bedrock interface. Based on available geophysical data, the depth to bedrock is expected to range from 0 to 50 meters. Click Image To View Full Size Figure 1. Canary Golds Madeira River Project Area Tenement Package showing the location of the upcoming reconnaissance Air Core Drilling Program centered on Tenement 012. The drilling program will initially test a portion of Canarys northern 012 tenement, with widely spaced (approximately 500m intervals) holes drilled as a series of fences perpendicular to the interpreted paleo-current flow direction of the targeted, preserved ancient Madeira River paleo-channels and associated sedimentary rocks. Some 1000m of Air-Core Drilling has been planned which the Company envisages will allow for the execution of 20 - 40 holes to be drilled over a period of 4 to 6 weeks. Sampling and geological observation of the material recovered from these holes will provide important preliminary information relating to the presence and distribution of gold, and the geometry, lateral extent, continuity, grainsize variability, maturity and thickness of various potentially gold bearing sedimentary layers. Samples will be collected at 1m intervals down the hole and submitted to the SGS Laboratory in Belo Horizonte for Fire Assay. Heavy mineral concentrates will also be prepared from the same sample intervals to test for the presence of coarse gold and other heavy minerals such as ilmenite, cassiterite, tantalite, monazite and zircon that may also be concentrated in the targeted sediments. Figure 2 - Photograph of the Air Core Rig, currently being mobilized to Rondonia to initiate drilling at Canary Golds Madeira Project. The right image shows an example of the targeted geological section of the drilling program. *Air core drilling is a drilling method that uses compressed air to flush cuttings out of the borehole. It's a cost-effective and efficient drilling method that's commonly used for shallow exploration projects. Air core drilling was developed in Australia in the early 1960s to drill through soft, unconsolidated materials and is now a popular method for exploring shallow deposits of minerals and other resources. One of the main benefits of air core drilling is its efficiency. The use of compressed air means that cuttings can be quickly and easily removed from the borehole, allowing drilling to proceed at a faster pace than other drilling methods. Additionally, air core drilling is a cost-effective method, making it an attractive option for exploration projects looking for early information prior to utilizing more expensive drilling methods once initial discoveries are explored and developed. The main difference between diamond drilling and air core drilling is the type of sample that is produced. Diamond drilling produces a solid core sample, while air core drilling produces a pulverized cuttings sample. Diamond drilling is ideal for detailed geological information, while air core drilling is better suited for a general understanding of subsurface geology. Exploration Plan - Sonic Drilling Analytical results and associated geological observations from this first Air Core drilling program will be used to design and plan more focused Sonic drilling* program(s), planned for June, which will allow for recovery of intact core samples through the complete, continuous sedimentary sequence for detailed sedimentological, gold and heavy mineral analysis and evaluation. From this the Company will develop 3D Models that will inform exploration programs as they are expanded in scope and scale to fully evaluate the upside potential across the entire, extensive 684.45 square kilometre tenement package. *Sonic Drilling is an advanced form of drilling which employs the use of high-frequency, resonant energy generated inside the Sonic head to advance a core barrel or casing into subsurface formations. The core samples that are produced as a result of sonic drilling are far superior to samples provided by other drilling methods. An undisturbed, quality, sample is possible due to an innovative advanced casing system that can capture the sample and maintain its integrity with as little as 1% deviation as opposed to other comparative methods such as a standard rotary drilling rig. Click Image To View Full Size Figure 3 - Top left image of unconsolidated and semi consolidated sedimentary horizons where the sonic drilling technique is ideal for recovery of 100% intact sample sections (top right image). Below images are photographs of the available Sonic Rigs that will be used by Canary at their Madeira Project from June 2025 to advance exploration. Geological Context - Madeira River Project A review of reports on the Madeira River drainage system in Rondonia, within the Amazon floodplain, was conducted and compared to global sediment-hosted gold deposits. The analysis highlights an orogenic influence on sediment supply, where gold-bearing sands and pebble gravels were deposited and reworked over millions of years. Fine and visible gold (VG) grains are distributed throughout the target area, with the highest gold concentrations found at the Miocene-Basement contact. Structural controls on bedrock and paleo-topography likely created zones where heavy minerals, including gold, accumulated into potentially significant deposits. While these zones remain undiscovered, they may also contain additional metals or minerals. Below the Mocururu horizon, a similar gold-bearing sedimentary unit exists at shallow depths, possibly suitable for surface mining, though further study is required. These sediments may also host magnetite or radioactive elements, which could be detected using geophysical exploration techniques. Q2- 2025 work program in Brazil As outlined above, Canary Gold is rapidly moving towards a preliminary drilling phase to commence the 3D evaluation of gold targets believed to be preserved below shallow cover across its extensive tenement package. The drilling is due to commence on or around the 7th of April, 2025. QP Disclaimer Andrew Lee Smith, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the technical information related to the Madeira River Project in Rondonia, Brazil, disclosed herein. The information presented is based on Mr. Smith's professional judgment and understanding of the project at the time of review. However, readers are cautioned that the conclusions and interpretations are subject to the inherent uncertainties and limitations associated with exploration activities. About Canary Gold Corp. Canary Gold Corp. is a mineral exploration company whose principal business is the acquisition and exploration of gold mineral exploration properties, with a focus in Rondonia, Brazil. The Company has the option to acquire up to a 70% undivided right, title and interest in the Rio Madeira Project, a property that covers an area of 68,445 hectares of prospective geology in Rondonia, Brazil. More information about Canary can be found at www.canarygold.ca. For further information, please contact: Canary Gold Corp. Mark Tommasi, President Phone: 604-318-1448 www.canarygold.ca Disclaimer Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipates", "expects", "believes", and similar expressions or the negative of these words or other comparable terminology. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's planned exploration programs and drill programs and potential significance of results, are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include but are not limited to the risks detailed in the Company's Prospectus and in the continuous disclosure filings made by the Company with securities regulations from time to time. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements only as expressly required by applicable law. No securities exchange or commission has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. BacTech Environmental Corp. ("BacTech" or the "Company") (CSE: BAC, OTCQB: BCCEF) proudly announces that Company will file a full patent for its Zero Waste initiative, setting a new standard in sustainable mining and resource recovery, on or before Monday morning (April 7th) in Perth, Australia (+12 hours from EDT). This breakthrough innovation was validated through rigorous testing at Mirarco in Sudbury, Canada, under the direction of BacTech's Dr. Paul Miller. BacTech's patented process enhances the economic potential of mine waste by integrating bioleaching with a unique combination of downstream processing steps. This approach converts iron sulphides, such as pyrrhotite, into a suite of high-value, saleable products. The process not only aligns with global sustainability goals, it allows for the possibility of cleaning up legacy mine sites (such as an estimated 80 million tonnes in the Sudbury Basin, etc., source Douglas Duffy et al 2015, U. of Toronto) but also unlocks untapped revenue streams across multiple industries. Disruptive Innovation: Turning Waste into Marketable Commodities The Zero Waste process represents a paradigm shift in mineral waste management by extracting and monetizing valuable elements: High-Purity Magnetite Iron: A critical input for the Green Steel sector, this furnace-,ready iron feedstock eliminates the carbon emissions associated with traditional iron ore mining and processing. It also holds high value for the pigment industry. Ammonium Sulphate Fertilizer: A strategically vital agricultural input, BacTech's process ensures independent production of this organic fertilizer, reducing reliance on petroleum-derived sulphur and stabilizing supply chains. Nickel, Copper, Cobalt and Rare Earths Recovery: These strategic base metals are precipitated out as high-purity commodities, supporting critical minerals supply and the global shift toward electrification. Silicate Residue for Construction: The remaining inert materials can be repurposed as backfill or incorporated into geopolymer-based construction materials, reducing waste disposal challenges. A Market-Ready, De-Risked Solution for Global Mining Waste With approximately 12 billion tonnes of fresh tailings generated annually by the global mining industry, BacTech's Zero Waste patent presents a massive opportunity to transform mine waste into sustainable resources. The process has been de-risked by integrating well-established equipment and processing methods in a novel sequence, combined with BacTech's proprietary bioleaching expertise. Unlocking Investment & Industry Adoption A key advantage of BacTech's approach is its ability to generate diverse and resilient revenue streams: Fertilizer Production: The highest revenue contributor, addressing global agricultural demand while reducing price volatility risks. Magnetite Iron Sales: A scalable, high-value input for both Green Steel and pigment industries. Base Metal Recovery: Nickel, copper, and cobalt extraction provides strategic value. This revenue diversification significantly enhances the financial viability of long-term mineral waste treatment projects, making them attractive to investors previously deterred by commodity price volatility. Environmental Benefits No roasting or smelting. It is a water-based leaching process with no gas emissions Green chemistry: uses ammonia rather than acids or exotic chemicals Organic fertilizer: produces ammonium sulphate via microbial extraction qualifying product as a premium organic fertilizer. Custom iron feedstocks: tailored iron products reduce environmental impacts for steelmakers. Converts mine waste into an alternative supply of metals and fertilizers lowering global mining demand and emissions. Eliminates the need to generate acid for fertilizer production using sulphide minerals to generate organic fertilizer. This delinks fertilizer producers from petroleum-based sulphur supply chains. How Complex Is the Technology The process is simple and robust using standard tanks and settling systems under atmospheric pressure and moderate temperatures Avoids complex machinery and high-risk technologies ensuring reliability and ease of operation The process is designed for scalability and adaptability making it ideal for remote geography. The technology is built on proven industrial technologies Advancing the Green Steel Revolution Green Steel aims to eliminate carbon emissions in steel production by integrating renewable energy and waste-minimization technologies. BacTech's Zero Waste process directly supports this initiative by supplying high-grade magnetite iron, eliminating the need for carbon-intensive virgin ore mining. This presents a unique opportunity for steel producers to secure sustainable, low-carbon raw materials. Strategic Impact on Resource Independence Beyond its economic and environmental benefits, BacTech's Zero Waste initiative contributes to resource security for governments and industries worldwide. By converting waste into valuable, domestically sourced commodities, the process reduces reliance on imported iron, fertilizer, and critical base metals, reinforcing supply chain resilience and national strategic resource independence. It also reduces the need for fresh mining and processing, given the quantity of usable metal and byproducts now available because of this invention. Repricing of Existing Convertible Debt Obligations BacTech has entered into an agreement, dated March 28th, 2025, with the sole holder of a convertible debenture including principal of $1.4M and interest, and an interim demand loan of $120,000, totaling an obligation of $1.810,186. The individual has agreed to amend the terms of the convertible debenture and demand loan. The amendments will have the entire obligation extended to September 30, 2025; at which time it will be converted to equity at revised conversion price. In addition, interest generated from the obligation will cease to be accrued effective March 15, 2025. The current conversion price of 15 cents per share for the convertible debenture has now been revised to an exercise price of 10 cents for the entire obligation. To retire the obligation, BacTech would be required to issue 18,101,868 shares for the redemption of the obligation and 18,101,868 common share purchase warrants at an exercise price of $0.20 and will have a two-year term from the conversion date. The debenture holder has the option to, and if successful, arrange the US20.0M financing for the proposed bioleach facility in Ecuador by September 30, 2025. If the debenture holder is successful, the conversion price for the obligation will be revised to $0.065. In this case BacTech would be required to issue 27,849,028 common shares and the same number of common share purchase warrants at an exercise price of $0.13 and will have a two-year term from the conversion date to retire the obligation. About BacTech Environmental BacTech Environmental Corporation is a global leader in sustainable mining solutions, leveraging bioleaching technology to remediate environmental liabilities while recovering valuable metals. The Company's Zero Waste initiative aligns with its commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and the circular economy. For further information contact: Ross Orr President & CEO, BacTech Environmental Corporation 416-813-0303 ext. 222, Email: borr@bactechgreen.com Website: https://bactechgreen.com/ Investor Presentation: https://bactechgreen.com/investors/ Follow us on: Facebook http://www.facebook.com/BacTechGreen X http://twitter.com/BacTechGreen LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/company/1613873 Vimeo http://vimeo.com/bactechgreen YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBgXr3ej2_BMOtoeFoKIgEg Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information", which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to future tailings sites, sampling or other investigations of tailing sites, the Company's ability to make use of infrastructure around tailings sites or operating performance of the Company and its projects. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified using words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether because of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management's estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this release. Antonelli went karting with Valentino Rossi Before travelling to Japan, Kimi Antonelli spent a day with MotoGP legend and fellow Italian Valentino Rossi. Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Chinese GP 2025 Mercedes Eurosport Italia reports that new Mercedes driver Antonelli, 18, joined Rossi to take part in a karting day for the retired nine-time world champion's VR46 talent academy. We went to train on the kart together, which was really nice, Antonelli told journalists at Suzuka, confirming reports that the event took place at the Migliaro kart track in Italy. Vale is a really good guy, the Formula 1 rookie added. "We had a good laugh and he told me some stories from when he was racing in MotoGP, some funny ones too, but I can't tell them now. This year I'll probably go to a couple of MotoGP races just to watch and support the academy riders. Antonelli says it's not his first encounter with Rossi, 46. "He supported me a lot from the beginning, and he just told me to keep working and having fun. And above all to focus on myself and not worry about the rest. To enjoy the moment and stay focused. He is a really good guy and he is someone I will always look up to, because he is a historic figure in motorsports. It was very kind of him to give me his support. (GMM) Bortoleto confronted Marko over B-grade jibe Formula 1 rookie Gabriel Bortoleto confronted Dr Helmut Marko after being described in the media as a 'B-grade' driver. Gabriel Bortoleto Sauber 20-year-old Brazilian Bortoleto is the reigning F2 champion, but Red Bull advisor Marko pointed out recently that he only had two wins . He's a very intelligent driver who brings the car home, but I don't see that ultimate speed in him. Almost immediately, Bortoleto - managed by F1 legend Fernando Alonso - snapped back. "Hearing that from Helmut - he's a guy who has put a lot of talent in Formula 1 and has put a lot of wrong talents in F1. So, you can see he got it right and wrong and hopefully I will prove him wrong. Now, a photo has emerged of Bortoleto in conversation with Marko, 81, in the paddock. Formula 1 journalist Julianne Cerasoli asked the Sauber driver what they spoke about. They had never spoken before, so he called Marko to officially introduce himself, she explained. "The Austrian even clarified the statement about the 'B driver'. Marko said that what came out in the press was worse than what he said at the time, and that he thinks Gabriel is a very intelligent driver. And everything is fine between the two of them. And no, he (Marko) didn't offer (Bortoleto) any position. Gabriel has a long-term contract with Audi, just to be clear. (GMM) McDan pledges to invest in Ghanas creative industry Graphic Showbiz Showbiz News Apr - 04 - 2025 , 17:04 3 minutes read The Chief Executive Officer of McDan Group of Companies, Daniel McKorley popularly known as McDan has revealed his intention of investing in Ghanas creative sector. According to the business mogul known for his investments across other sectors of the economy, including aviation, his decision stems from the wealth of talent in the creative industry. In an interview with NY DJ on BTM Afrika, Mr. McKorley praised Ghanaian creatives for their exceptional talent and strong work ethic, but noted that they often struggle to take their careers to the next level due to limited financial resources. Citing Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy as cases in point, he said: "I can tell you that Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy are some of the most talented artists in Africa. None of these Nigerian artists comes close to them, although they are also talented. Their (Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy) music and stage performances are amazing." Asked why he would want to invest in the sector, Daniel McKorley highlighted the great financial potential of the creative economy. "That space brings a lot of money, and I smile where there's good money, but it's not my space, so I would want to sit back as the godfather to support (financially, etc.) people to get into that space. You can't be everywhere. If you're living in the system, you have to give others a shoulder," he further noted. He also called on other businessmen to invest in the creative sector since musicians, and other creatives are great ambassadors of the country. "I believe in my heart that they need serious support from businessmen. They are our ambassadors, and I feel we need to invest more in them. I'm not really into that space, but I can see some good young upcoming talents as well," he added. In 2022, Daniel McKorley awarded Ghanaian multidisciplinary creative George Quaye a $2 million contract. He made this revelation during the McDan Youth Connect event which was held on August 11, 2022 at the KNUST in Kumasi. While encouraging the youth to yearn for greatness and learn to grow by taking baby steps, McDan cited George Quaye, as one of the people who had grown tremendously in his field. Im here with Aboagye. Aboagye you saw in Taxi Driver just won a contract from me about two million dollars. You saw him in Taxi Driver like he was joking [in Taxi Driver] but Aboagye had a purpose. Today, he is sitting here in suit. Everybody has something special in him, he noted. George Quaye, also the Team Lead for ImageBureau, has in the past few years been vibrant in the field of theatre. Together with his partner Naa Ashorkor, they have staged a number of brilliant plays, aiming to help project theatre in Ghana. Source: Joy Entertainment Ja Rule: I recorded a song with a Ghanaian artiste but cant remember the name Graphic Showbiz Showbiz News Apr - 04 - 2025 , 11:27 2 minutes read American rapper Ja Rule has made a surprising revelation, disclosing that he recorded a song with a Ghanaian artist over 15 years ago, but unfortunately, he can't recall the artist's name. In a recent interview with JoyNews on April 1, 2025, Ja Rule shared the story while promoting the upcoming commissioning of a six-unit classroom block at the Nuaso Anglican Basic School in the Eastern Region of Ghana. During the conversation, Ja Rule reminisced about his past studio session with the unidentified Ghanaian artiste. I did a record long time ago with a Ghanaian artiste, I have forgotten his name but this was like 10 or 15 years ago when I came over here. We recorded in the studio and it was dope. Afrobeat is really big right now, Ja Rule said. After Ja Rule's statement, Ghanaian artist Kojo Cue identified the mystery artist as rapper Tinny. Footage of Ja Rule and Tinny working together in a studio in Ghana has surfaced on social media, lending credence to the claim.(Read also (VIDEO)Ja Rule breaks ground for construction of classroom block at Nuaso, Go to school, talent not enough to survive Ja Rule to GH creatives) There are also rumors suggesting that the track was intended for one of Ja Rule's albums, but it was never released for unknown reasons. Meanwhile, Ghanaian music producer Morris Babyface shared a snippet of a song featuring Ja Rule, titled "Hey Love," on Facebook. See video below: Next article: Ja Rule: I recorded a song with a Ghanaian artiste but cant remember the name Tribute concert in honour of Osibisas Teddy Osei in Kumasi tonight Gifty Owusu-Amoah Showbiz News Apr - 04 - 2025 , 12:08 2 minutes read A tribute concert in honour of legendary musician and founder of Osibisa band, Teddy Osei has been scheduled for tonight, April 4 at the SG Mall, Top High, Kumasi. The free-admission show which is expected to start at 7:00pm is said to be a homecoming concert in celebration of Teddy Osei's remarkable contribution to global music and a tribute to his enduring legacy. The concert follows an ongoing state burial at the forecourt of the State House today, April. According to the organisers, patrons should expect an evening filled with the iconic sounds of Osibisa, blending African rhythms with rock and jazz influences, creating the unique "criss-cross rhythms that explode with happiness." The revered musician, saxophonist and founding member of the iconic Afro-rock band Osibisa, sadly passed away at the age of 88 on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. (Read also: Teddy Osei takes final bow at 88, Burial mass of Teddy Osei of Osibisa fame to be held on April 5) Born in Kumasi, Osei was introduced to musical instruments while still a child. He began to play the saxophone while attempting to create a band with his college friends in the coastal city of Sekondi. After graduating from college, he worked as a building inspector for a year before creating a band called "The Comets." The Comets enjoyed brief popularity before Osei traveled to London in 1962. He received a grant from the Ghanaian government to study at a private music and drama school for three years, before being forced to leave by a regime change in Ghana. In 1969, he founded Osibisa along with several other musicians. The band remained popular through the 1970s and is still celebrated for being a driving force in introducing African music to a global audience. Osibisa's ground-breaking sound and energetic performances have earned him international acclaim and a dedicated following. The tribute concert offers a rare opportunity for fans in his native Ashanti Region to witness performances by musicians in his honour as he is laid to rest on Saturday, April 5. Next article: Creche worker in France faces 30-years in jail for killing baby Previous article: LIST: These are the happiest countries in Africa This is why Lesotho is the world's second worst-hit country by Trump's tariffs bbc.com International News Apr - 04 - 2025 , 06:42 6 minutes read Lesotho was slapped with the White House's highest tariff rates in the list released by US President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Americans bringing goods in from the small southern African country will have to pay an additional 50% import tax. The US has a big trade deficit with Lesotho, which sells textiles including jeans and diamonds to America. The 50% rate for Lesotho was part of what Trump described as "reciprocal tariffs" imposed on imports from dozens of countries, including 20 in Africa. All nations face a minimum rate of 10%. Responding to the news, Lesotho's Trade Minister Mokhethi Shelile said his government would send a delegation to Washington to argue against the new trade measure. "My biggest concern was the immediate closure of factories and job losses," the AFP news agency quotes him as telling journalists on Thursday. One of Trump's aims with his tariff announcement is to reduce his country's trade deficit with the rest of the world. And this gives a clue as to why Lesotho has been hit so hard. According to White House figures, in 2024 while the US exported just $2.8m (2.1m) worth of goods to Lesotho, its imports from the southern African country amounted to $237.3m. In their calculations, US officials used the difference between the value of imports and exports in setting the tariff rates for different countries. In recent years, Lesotho has been successful in selling textiles to the US, making the most of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa). This US legislation from 2000 allowed eligible African countries to send some goods to the US without having tariffs slapped on them. Signed into law by President Bill Clinton, Agoa was intended to help African countries grow their economies and create jobs, but these tariffs appear to threaten its future. Lesotho's garment factories have made jeans for major American brands such as Levi's and Wrangler in recent years. Clothes make up nearly three-quarters of what Lesotho exports to the US its second biggest trading partner after South Africa. The value of that US trade amounts to more than 10% of its total annual national income. The extra costs that the tariffs will incur for American buyers could reduce demand and therefore have a big impact on Lesotho's economy. "This has been a devastating day for us," Teboho Kobeli, founder of Lesotho clothes manufacturer Afri-Expo Textiles, told the BBC's Focus on Africa programme. He said he had spent the day in talks with industry colleagues and the government about what to do next. While his business, which Mr Kobeli says employs around 2,000 people, can look for other markets, the US is so significant that "we can't just shelve the US market... we need to do everything we can to bring [it] back". Colette van der Ven, a lawyer who specialises in international trade, told the BBC that the 50% figure Trump has imposed on Lesotho "makes little sense logically". She described it as "ironic" that the US was effectively punishing Lesotho for the success it has enjoyed under Agoa. "It's this sense that the US is being taken advantage of because it's running a trade deficit. It's really reflective of a new ideology about trade and who is benefiting and who is not". What about other African countries? Other African countries hit with extra tariffs include 47% for Madagascar, 40% for Mauritius, 37% for Botswana and 30% for South Africa. Nigerian exports will be hit too - at a rate of 14%. Kenya, Ghana, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, Senegal and Liberia were among those countries whose exports to the US will be subject to the baseline tariff of 10%. The US is not running a trade deficit with these countries. Trump said the reciprocal tariffs were "for countries that treat us badly". During Wednesday's announcement at the White House, the Republican president said that the US had been taken advantage of by "cheaters" and had been "pillaged" by foreigners. "Our taxpayers have been ripped off for more than 50 years, but it is not going to happen any more," Trump said. South Africa is on the long list of countries dubbed the "worst offenders", which also includes China, Japan and the European Union. These now face higher US rates - payback for unfair trade policies, Trump said. "They have got some bad things going on in South Africa. You know, we are paying them billions of dollars, and we cut the funding because a lot of bad things are happening in South Africa," he said, before going on to name other countries. US-South Africa relations have become increasingly strained since the start of the Trump presidency in January. South Africa's biggest export to the US is platinum, which may be exempted from the import tax. But its second biggest export - cars - will be hit hard. In a statement, the South African presidency condemned the new tariffs as "punitive", saying they could "serve as a barrier to trade and shared prosperity". "We now have to look amongst ourselves and say, within the customs union in southern Africa... how we're going to respond to these issues," South Africa's Trade Minister Parks Tau is quoted by AFP as saying. "Diversifying our trade is going to be important... enhancing our work on the African continent and collaborating," he said. The White House released a list of roughly 100 countries and the tariff rates that the US would impose on what Trump dubbed "liberation day" for the American people. Trump added 34% to the existing 20% duties on all Chinese imports to the US, making it the highest rate globally. In addition, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on all foreign-made cars. The US is expected to start charging the 10% tariffs on 5 April, with the higher duties for certain nations starting on 9 April. African countries like South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya have long-standing trade relations with the US, and the new tariffs could significantly affect existing economic ties. Annabel Bishop, chief economist at Investec, a South Africa-based banking and investment firm, believes the impact will be "very negative". But she told the BBC that the tariffs could accelerate the current shift in Africa's trading practices. "What we would expect to see is greater trade with the Global South, where possible, [there] is likely to be some switching in trade partners." The tariffs also come in as many African countries are already grappling with the effects of US foreign aid cuts, which provided health and humanitarian assistance to vulnerable nations. Trump announced the aid freeze on his first day in office in January as part of a review into the US government spending. Previous article: Conditions of service for teachers will be improved Dr Apaak World Bank invests $80.8m to improve higher education Maclean Kwofi Education Apr - 04 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read The World Bank has invested about $80.8 million as a credit facility to help develop and build the capacities of higher educational institutions across the country in the last 10 years. The facility is made possible under the $729 million Africa Higher Education Centres of Excellence (ACE) project and benefits tertiary schools in participating governments in Africa. It was disbursed to support the universities that applied to seek funding to specialise in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM); environment; agriculture; applied social science, education and health. The beneficiary institutions are the University of Ghana (UG), the University for Development Studies (UDS), the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) and the University of Cape Coast (UCC). The participating countries include Ghana, The Gambia, Nigeria, Senegal, Togo, Benin, Burkina Faso and Cameroun. The rest are Cote dIvoire, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. With a responsibility to provide administrative and technical support, the Association of African Universities (AAU) served as a regional facilitating unit for the project. The project, which has benefited nearly 100,000 students in Africa in the last 10 years, is expected to end this year. Large-scale initiative In an interview with the Daily Graphic last Friday after a press soiree in Accra as part of ACEs 10th anniversary celebration, the Programme Manager in charge of ACE Impact at the AAU, Dr Sylvia Chindime Mkandawire, said the project was the first regional large-scale initiative funded by the World Bank since 2024. She said the universities, representing 80 centres, were selected through competitive processes in about 20 African countries, including Ghana. So far, Ghana has nine centres in the University of Ghana (UG), the UDS, KNUST, the UENR and the UCC. The total investment made by the World Bank is over $729 million and Ghana alone received $80.8 million. The funds were released in two phases where the country participated, she said. She explained that the credit facility, which was made possible through governments of the participating countries, would be paid back to the World Bank. Improve infrastructure Dr Mkandawire stated that the funds secured were used by the universities to improve infrastructure for teaching and learning, as well as to train students at the Master of Science (MSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) levels. Each of the centres received over $6 million for five years. At least 25 per cent of the funds received by the centres were used to build state-of-the-art infrastructure with equipment, laboratories and hostels to aid teaching and learning. Within the same funds, we connected industries to the universities through internship programmes, commercialisation of research and investment in professional skills for staff and faculty to build capacities, she said. Development impact The programmes manager stated that the fund was successfully used to improve the quality, quantity and development impact of postgraduate education in selected universities through regional specialisation and collaboration. She said the project helped support about 20 countries to promote regional specialisation among participating universities in thematic areas that address regional challenges and strengthen the capacities of these universities to deliver quality training and applied research. She said the project has far exceeded its targets of improving higher education in Africa. We have been consolidating the gains for the past 10 years. And so at the 10th anniversary celebration, partners, stakeholders and private sector players will convene to continue the project after the exit of ACE, she added. 230 cartons of seized opioids destroyed Benjamin Xornam Glover Apr - 04 - 2025 , 18:19 3 minutes read The 230 cartons of the highly dangerous opioids, which were recently intercepted at the Tema Port in an illicit importation into Ghana and other West African nations have been destroyed. The Ministry of Health and the Foods and Drugs Authority (FDA) on Friday set fire to the drugs following a court order. The consignment of undeclared opioid pharmaceuticals, worth GH20 million which were purportedly in transit to Niger, were seized in a joint operation by regulatory and intelligence agencies at Tema Port on March 14, 2025. The shipment was seized following a coordinated inspection involving the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), National Security, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA). The 230 cartons of opioids which were destroyed on Friday included 128 cartons of Tafrodol, 92 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol and 10 cartons of Rahol Tapentadol Briefing journalists, the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh said that the safe disposal of the items followed a court order secured for the destruction of the drugs. Background On March 14, 2025 a team of NACOC, FDA, and Customs impounded a consignment of opioids under the guise of transiting from Ghana to Niger. After impounding it, the state swiftly moved to court to seek an order for the destruction of the opioids. The court granted the application for the destruction with clear orders, including the venue for destruction. Including people who must witness the destruction, including registerer of the High Court, FDA, NACOC as well as the Ministry of Science and Environment. Mr Mintah Akandoh said after the safe disposal of these consignments, government was going further to interrogate and investigate the client agent and the importer. "Our information indicates that the importer is not a Ghanaian. The goods were being transported to Niger. And so, we are in touch with the Niger government to know whether or not they okayed such a consignment into their country. But as I stated earlier on, even if the Niger government has okayed such a consignment, our bodies, our ports, our airports will never be used as safe haven." He said. He said the Ministry has waged a war against the influx of opioids in Ghana and would continue to monitor whatever is going on at the ports and harbors. Investigation He reiterated the fact that only Kotoka International Airport and the Tema Port had been designated for the import and export of drugs hence government has instructed the security agencies, including the Customs, to impound whatever drugs they get at any of the land bodies. On investigations, he said officials of the Customs have been instructed to hand over the culprits to the Attorney General's Department once they finish the investigation for prosecution Collaboration The Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, Dr. Delese Mimi Darko said her outfit would continue to collaborate with the Customs Division and other regulatory outfits at the various ports to ensure that such illegal drugs were not sneaked through. "We have increased our border presence. At the airport, we're now working 24 hours. At the port, we already work 24 hours. So we're going to start working 24 hours at the airport, so that our consignment cards are not evaded," she said Writer's email: [email protected] Next article: Energy Commission rolls out App to bolster electrical safety and compliance Dr Naomi Kwetey: I accept CBG MD job with deep sense of duty and commitment to advancing banks vision of financial stability Enoch Darfah Frimpong Apr - 04 - 2025 , 11:19 3 minutes read Dr Naomi Wolali Kwetey has expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for her appointment as acting Managing Director of the Consolidated Bank Ghana Ltd (CBG). I am deeply honored by the trust and confidence HE John Mahama has placed in me by appointing me as the Acting Managing Director of Consolidated Bank Ghana, she posted on Facebook on Friday morning (April 4, 2025). I accept this responsibility with a deep sense of duty and commitment to advancing the banks vision of financial stability, innovation, and inclusive growth, she added. I look forward to working with the Board, management, and staff of CBG, as well as our valued stakeholders, to strengthen the banking sector and contribute to Ghanas economic development. I extend my sincere gratitude to all who have supported me on this journey. I am excited about the opportunities ahead as we work together to build a stronger financial future for all. Related: Meet Naomi Wolali Kwetey, wife of NDC General Secretary who has just been nominated as acting MD of Consolidated Bank of Ghana In a letter dated March 26, 2015, Naomi Wolali Kwetey was nominated as the acting Managing Director of the Consolidated Bank Ghana Ltd (CBG). Her nomination by President John Dramani Mahama for the topmost position of the commercial bank was made known in a letter signed by the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson and addressed to the Board Chairman of the CBG. She was nominated alongside Ms Shiela Azuntaba for the positions of Managing Director and Deputy Managing Director of CBG, respectively, effective March 26, 2025. The letter from the Finance Minister, a copy of which has been seen by Graphic Online and addressed to the Board Chairman of CBG with attention to the Company Secretary, indicated that, "You [Board] are required to regularize the appointments in compliance with the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992) and the Bank's Constitution. Who is Naomi Wolali Kwetey? Dr Mrs Naomi Wolali Kwetey is the wife of the General Secretary of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Fifi Fiavi Kwetey. She has been working at Ecobank Ghana and the previous Trust Bank which was acquired by Ecobank in 2011. She has experience as a financial expert and a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (FCIB) and a Chartered Dealer (ACI) with over 30 years of banking experience in corporate banking, treasury management, credit, and strategic management. She has worked as a turnaround leader with a focus on supervisory controls and sustainable growth within Ghanas banking sector. She has served in many positions in her career including Deputy Head of Credit Administration, Treasurer, Head Financial Institution and Markets, Business Manager for Financial Institutions and International Organisation, and Head of Customer Experience at Ecobank Ghana. Dr Mrs Naomi Wolali Kwetey served as the Head of Customer Experience with responsibility for five countries in West Africa at Ecobank. She has a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA), a Master of Arts degree in Business and International Banking and Finance, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. Writer's email: [email protected] Follow @enochfrimpong Follow @Graphicgh Chief of Staff, finance chiefs discuss innovative financing models - Meeting heralds April 19 Kwahu Business Forum Kester Aburam Korankye Apr - 04 - 2025 , 12:08 2 minutes read Leaders in the country's financial services sector converged on the Jubilee House yesterday for a crucial planning session with the Chief of Staff, Mr Julius Debrah, ahead of the second Kwahu Business Forum, slated for Saturday, April 19, this year. The closed-door meeting brought together the heads of Ghana's most influential financial institutions, including the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Exim Bank, Sylvester Mensah, the Managing Director of Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), Ato Sarpong, and that of the National Investment Bank (NIB), Doliwura Zakaria. Also present were the CEO of the Ghana Export Promotions Authority (GEPA), Francis K. Arthur, and that of the Development Bank Ghana (DBG), Dr Randolph Nsor-Ambala. Transforming business environment Mr Debrah, a successful Kwahu entrepreneur, framed the discussions around President Mahama's campaign promise to transform Ghana's business environment. "What we're building here goes beyond traditional banking relationships," he told the gathering that also had the MD of Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG), Daniel Wilson Addo, and that of the Ghana Commercial Bank, Farihan Alhassan. The financial chiefs discussed innovative financing models during the four-hour session, with the CEO of the Venture Capital Trust Fund, Michael Abbey, stressing the need for "patient capital" to nurture small businesses into industrial-scale operations. SMEs The Presidential Advisor on the Economy, Seth Terkper, moderated discussions on bridging the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) financing gap. This year's forum, on the theme, "The Future of Business: The Role of the Financial Sector," aims to move from policy discussions to concrete implementation plans, building on connections made during the inaugural event. Banking sources indicate several partnership announcements may be unveiled at the Kwahu summit. GRA refunds E-Levy deductions after abolition Emmanuel Bonney & Joshua Bediako Koomson Apr - 04 - 2025 , 08:03 8 minutes read The end of the era of the Electronic Transaction Levy, commonly called E-Levy, kicked in fully on Thursday as the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) sanctioned its reversal upon the Presidents assent of the Bill that abolished the levy. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has since reaffirmed that the E-Levy has been officially abolished as of April 2, 2025, and that any deductions made beyond that date would be fully refunded to affected individuals. It emphasised that from 00:00 hours on April 2, 2025, no-one should be charged the levy, as it had been completely removed from the countrys tax laws. We do recognise that there are practical implications in removing the system. However, any person who suffered E-Levy deduction from April 2 onwards will have their money refunded in line with the Presidents directive and the law, the Commissioner General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, said yesterday on the sidelines of a two-day GRA management retreat in Akosombo. Two of the charging entities have since informed their customers of the cesation of the E-Levy charge. A message from AT Money to customers said E-Levy had been scrapped from April 2, 2025. Accordingly, all E-Levy charged from April 2, 2025 onwards will be refunded within 72 hours, the message said. For its part, MTN Mobile Money said the one per cent E-Levy had been abolished and no longer applies to your momo transactions. Refund Mr Sarpong said the GRA had engaged charging entities such as banks and mobile money operators ahead of the levys removal to ensure a smooth transition. He, however, admitted that some systems were still in the process of being updated. We had agreed with them that by the morning of April 3, all charging systems should be taken off, but if for any reason someone has suffered the levy within this period, we will reconcile with the charging entities and ensure all affected customers are duly refunded, he said. Notice A notice to all charging entities from the GRA late last Wednesday said the GRA Electronic Transfer Levy Management and Assurance System would automatically return a "no charge" on all transactions posted to it by entities from midnight. It directed all charging entities to cease applying the one per cent E-Levy from midnight on all channels. Charging entities must immediately process refunds for any E-Levy amounts deducted from customers effective today, April 2, 2025. Entities are to establish an expedited refund process to handle such cases promptly and maintain proper documentation of all refunds processed. Reports of such refunds must be submitted to GRA, the notice said. Charging entities are to take the necessary steps to file and pay all outstanding E-Levy charged and collected on all transactions that occurred before April 2, 2025, it added. Betting tax Meanwhile, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has directed lottery operators to stop deducting the 10 per cent withholding tax on winnings from lottery, effective April 2, 2025. It said players who were charged withholding tax on their winnings on or after April 2, 2025 were entitled to a refund from the lottery operator. Patrons, it said, were advised to keep receipts or electronic records of their transactions to facilitate any necessary refund process. The Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority wishes to inform the general public that the 10 per cent withholding tax on winnings from lottery (including gaming, betting, lotto, and any games of chance) has been abolished effective April 2, 2025, a notice on withholding tax on winnings from lottery said. Negative impact Reacting to the scrapping of the E-Levy, the Chief Executive Director (CEO) of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, Dr Kenneth Ashigbey, said the repeal of the levy was a step in the right direction. As a public policy watcher, he said the levy was not a well thought-through policy, and was inimical to the previous governments digital and financial inclusion strategy. The E-levy, Dr Ashigbey said, resulted even in some job losses, with some mobile money agents having to close some of their shops, and that it resulted in loss of investment for some of the financial technology institutions (fintechs) as well. When it happened, it slowed down the rate of growth of mobile money and we have not been able to recover from that. Though when the reduction was down from 1.5 per cent to one per cent, we saw some recovery. But not back to the rate at which we were going before then. So, the expectation is that now that the E-Levy has been revoked, we should be able to get back to the point of growth, where anybody sending mobile money would not be thinking about the E-Levy anymore, he said, adding that the discrimination that existed between mobile money and the banks and all other transactions would have been cured. So when people want to take a decision, they would look at which one is more convenient for them. If the banks are convenient, they would do the banks. If the mobile money is convenient, they would do the mobile money, he said. That, Dr Ashigbey said, would also mean that customers would have a lot more money in their pockets since the percentage charged on money sent could be used to pay for goods or services. Moreover, he said, vendors would also get a lot more turnover because this money that they have to spend would not come to the vendors. Additionally, there would be a lot more transactions. So the mobile money agents would also get a lot more transactions. At the end of the year, he said, the agents could even file their corporate income taxes and pay some taxes to the government, adding that the same way the electronic money issuers (EMIs) increased in volume and value, it would result in more revenues for them, which would result in more profits and that would mean more taxes to the government. Refund guidelines Regarding the refunds that should be done from April 2, 2025 per the directive from the GRA, Dr Ashigbey said the chamber was awaiting specific instructions from the GRA on how that should be done. If you have seen the directive from the GRA, there is some refund that should be done from April 2, 2025, the day on which the assent and the gazette was done. So, for that one, we are waiting for GRA to issue guidelines on how the April 2, 2025 refunds are going to be done, he said, adding that in the event of any inadvertent wrongful charge that would have happened after the midnight of April 3, 2025, the EMIs would do the refund themselves. I'm sure within a week, they would do that refund when it happens. Dr Ashigbey said all the five electronic money issuers went live on Wednesday night following the directive from the GRA, and any one that had engaged in transaction on Thursday morning would realise that E-Levy or the tax was zero for the majority of the channels. He, however, said mobile money used various channels to do those transactions and that there were some third-party channels or partners, as well as some offline partners, and that as a result of the shortness of the time between when the gazette was received and when GRA issued the written instructions and midnight, a few of them might fall within the cracks. Asked whether he had received any complaint of wrongful deduction, he responded in the negative, saying that if anyone had any complaint, they would have channellel it to the EMI that would have wrongfully deducted them. Traders react Traders at Adabraka, a suburb of Accra, have expressed relief and optimism following the governments repeal of the E-Levy. Some traders, who spoke to the Daily Graphic, said they were already witnessing the benefits, as mobile money transactions now came without the additional charges that previously cut their earnings. One such trader, TsoTsoe Tagoe, described the scrapping of the E-Levy as a welcome relief, particularly for small-scale businesses like hers, which handle transactions ranging from as little as GH1 to larger sums. She shared how she recently transferred GH202 without any deductions, confirming the change first-hand. According to her, the levy had made it difficult to accumulate small earnings, but with its removal, she said she could now save and reinvest in her business without losing money to transaction charges. She urged the government to uphold policies that would drive economic growth and alleviate poverty. Another shop owner, Regina Darko, also commended the government for scrapping the levy, stating that it had been a financial burden, especially for business owners who conducted multiple transactions on a daily basis. Im someone who sends a lot of money and does a lot of transactions, and each time, something is deducted. So if, God-willing, they have scrapped it, those little charges will now be mine, she said. Ms Darko expressed confidence that the government would not reintroduce the tax, at least under the current administration. However, another trader, Samuel Teye, despite echoing similar sentiments, cautioned against the levys possible return in the future. While he acknowledged the relief that had come with its removal, he hoped the decision would not be reversed. He urged the government to ensure that the repeal remained permanent, saying businesses needed long-term certainty to operate effectively. Strengthen collaboration for effective natural resource management Landscape Forum Timothy Ngnenbe Apr - 04 - 2025 , 09:57 4 minutes read Speakers at a national landscape forum have called for stronger partnerships among stakeholders to harness the countrys natural resource capital for sustainable development. The speakers, who included experts in the forest sector and heads of state agencies in the natural resource space, said the effective management of natural resources was pivotal to economic development and must be prioritised. In that regard, they stressed the need for collective efforts to urgently deal with human activities that tampered with the integrity of the environment, particularly illegal mining. The speakers were the Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Alhaji Yusif Sulemana; the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse; the CEO of the Forestry Commission, Dr Hugh Brown and the Programme Leader, Planet Development in charge of Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone at the World Bank, Naila Ahmed. They spoke at the opening session of a three-day Ghana National Landscape Forum in Accra last Wednesday. The forum was also used as a platform to launch and present the results of the Natural Capital Accounts (NCA), which was organised by the World Bank in collaboration with the ministries of Lands and Natural Resources; Environment, Science and Technology (MEST), the Forestry Commission and the EPA. Forum The forum brought together development partners, experts in the natural resource space, technocrats from ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) in the natural resource sector and civil society organisations (CSOs). It was held on the theme "Natural Resource Management and Forest Economy for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth" and focused on natural capital accounting. Resource management Alhaji Sulemana said the national landscape forum was a major move that would help to address the myriad environmental challenges confronting the country. He said the government was committed to fighting galamsey through a five-pronged approach - reforming the licensing regime in the small-scale mining sector; strengthening law enforcement; enhancing stakeholder engagement; providing alternative livelihoods to affected communities, and restoring the destroyed landscape. The deputy Lands and Natural Resources minister further stressed that the fight against galamsey remained a top priority of the government because it had a dire multiplier effect on almost all sectors. "The devastation caused by galamsey is not just environmental, but a big blow to our food security and very survival and that is why we need to fight it with all our might," he stressed. The Chief Director of MEST, Patrick Nimo, who delivered a speech on behalf of the minister of that sector, Dr Ibrahhim Murtala Mohammed, called for stronger collaboration between state and non-state actors to mainstream biodiversity and the NCA in the decision-making process. He stressed that the governments commitment to sustainable resource management would be critical in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Global Biodiversity Framework targets, Ghanas Green Growth Agenda and the aspirations of the Africa We Want under the African Union Agenda 20263. Protecting natural resources The Programme Leader at the Planet Department in charge of Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone at the World Bank said the crucial role natural resources played in the sustainable development of countries was a wake-up call for collective efforts, involving all stakeholders to protect the environment for the future. She added that given that the agriculture, forest and fishing sectors contributed a greater proportion of jobs in the country, it was important to take steps to address challenges to the natural environment, particularly land degradation, forest depletion and water pollution. She said it was in that regard that the World Bank had committed to supporting the government's effort to reclaim the degraded landscape. Also in his submission, Dr Brown said there were interrelationships between effective management of natural resources and sustainable development, which was why protecting forest resources was crucial. He said it was worrying that in spite of the crucial role the forestry sector played in national development, including providing livelihoods to about 3.6 million people, illegal mining and other environmental crimes continue to destroy the forests. He thus stressed the need for bold action, ranging from stringent law enforcement to effective reclamation programmes to address the challenge head on. Well deal with galamsey ruthlessly: Ban, state of emergency, other options on table - Lands Minister Timothy Ngnenbe Apr - 04 - 2025 , 12:56 4 minutes read The government is open to deploying any option that will prove most effective for clamping down on illegal mining activities, including declaration of state of emergency and a temporary ban on small-scale mining, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has stated. Addressing the media in Accra yesterday, the minister said a request had been sent to President John Dramani Mahama to review the directive for confiscation of excavators to include an option to burn the equipment in situations where the Forestry Commissions rapid response team (RRT) and the security team faced challenges moving them out of red zones. Mr Buah said the request had become necessary following reports by the Forestry Commission and the security team that some illegal miners immobilised excavators, making it impossible to evacuate them from forest reserves. Also, the minister said discussions were ongoing to restrict the importation of excavators for mining purposes. Galamsey bigwigs The minister further stressed that the government had taken a firm decision to smoke out so-called powerful persons behind the illegal mining menace. "This government is committed to fighting this galamsey menace. Those who are involved in galamsey and their political collaborators must be warned. Any attempt to make calls for the release of an excavator or a person arrested for galamsey will not be countenanced at all; they will not succeed," Mr Buah stressed. While giving the assurance, the minister said the fight would require collaboration from both state and non-state actors to win. Describing illegal miners as terrorists, the minister said the countrys security architecture would be relied on to clear the forests and water bodies of all illegal mining activities. "We cannot allow a few people to make money at the expense of all of us. They are terrorists; they are killing us and we cannot allow this to continue," he stressed. Context The previous government staged a fight against illegal mining for eight years. Among other things, there was a ban on all forms of small-scale mining for almost two years; formation of an inter-ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM); deployment of joint police-military operations dubbed "Operation Vanguard and" "Operation Halt"; the revision of the countrys mining laws and other initiatives. However, in November, 2022, the military deployment to forest reserves was withdrawn. When Mr Buah took over as the Lands and Natural Resources Minister in February this year, he provided media briefing on the state of illegal mining in the country, stating that an assessment of the galamsey situation had shown that 5,000 hectares of forest cover had been destroyed. At yesterday's press briefing, he said the decision by the previous government to withdraw the military from forest reserves accounted for the surge in galamsey. Government interventions The minister said barely two months after taking office, modest gains had been made in the fight against illegal mining. For instance, he said after retaking control of seven of the forest reserves that were no go areas, efforts were being made to take back the remaining two reserves. He also cited the revocation of all small-scale mining licences issued after December 7, 2024, the setting up of a committee to review existing small-scale mining licences; launching of the Blue Water and Tree for Life programmes targeted at restoration polluted water bodies and degraded landscapes; as key measures that would help to deal with galamsey and its effect on the environment. We have also had engagement with the Office of the Attorney-General on the need to set up special courts to fast-track cases involving illegal miners. Currently the Attorney-General is taking steps constitute dedicated courts for that purpose, he added. Again, Mr Buah said, the operations by the security team had led to the arrest of 76 illegal miners in forest reserves and confiscation of 100 excavators, three bulldozers and outer mining equipment. We have developed serial coding for all the seized excavators to ensure that none of them get lost, he said. More work In spite of the modest gains, Mr Buah said the government would not rest on its oars until the fight against galamsey had been won. He stressed the need for the three arms of government to play their role well to help in stemming the tide. The minister said efforts were underway to review the Mineral and Mining Policy to incorporate reforms aimed at decentralising the licensing regime, beginning at the district level, with a focus on transparency and community involvement. Mr Buah also said education campaigns would be organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) to integrate environmental awareness into the school curricula and public messaging. He said given the complex and multifaceted nature of illegal mining, there was the need for all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, local assemblies, and civil society, to actively support initiatives meant to safeguard Ghanas natural resources for present and future generations. The fight against illegal mining is a national priority, and sustained collaboration is essential to ensure lasting success, he said. Govt accuses Ntim Fordjour of peddling falsehood over suspicious aircraft claims GraphicOnline Apr - 04 - 2025 , 06:15 3 minutes read The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has sharply criticised the Ranking Member of Parliaments Defence and Interior Committee, Rev John Ntim Fordjour, accusing him of spreading falsehoods about an alleged suspicious aircraft that landed at Ghanas Kotoka International Airport. Mr Ofosus comments follow the decision by President John Dramani Mahama to direct national security agencies to probe Fordjours claims that two aircraftAirMed Flight N823AM and Cavok Air Antonov An-12Bhad entered the country carrying cocaine and large sums of U.S. currency. Speaking on Thursday, April 3, Mr Ofosu alleged that Rev Fordjour had backtracked on his earlier allegations when invited to assist with investigations, now claiming that the statements were not his personal opinions but those of the committee he represented. I can report to you that because he knew he was peddling total falsehoods and lies, he now claims after being invited to assist with investigations that he was speaking on behalf of the committee that he was part of, and that the views he expressed were not his personal views, Mr Ofosu said. He added, So, because of that he says he is unable to cooperate with the security agencies. According to Mr Ofosu, the claims made by Rev Fordjour were not supported by facts and were only intended to damage the credibility of the current administration. I say that he was peddling falsehood because the facts as they exist vary completely from the claims that he made. When he made that claim, he was only seeking to peddle falsehood in a bid to undermine the confidence that the people of Ghana have in this government, he asserted. In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) page on April 3, the government spokesperson reiterated that there was no basis for the allegations of drug trafficking and money laundering through the airport. It would be recalled that at a press conference on April 1, Rev Fordjour raised serious concerns about the nature of cargo reportedly carried by the two aircraft in question. He questioned the legitimacy of their landing at KIA and demanded an urgent public briefing. There is no record of a medical referral, nor was any patient accompanied on board the flight. Instead, we are reliably informed that the air ambulance, which is specifically designed to transport patients, carried suspicious cargo suspected to be cocaine and cash in various U.S. denominations, the Assin South MP stated. He further alleged a rise in illicit activities under the current administration, saying: The sudden increase in drug trafficking and money laundering incidents after the NPP government handed over power to the NDC is alarming. National security must uphold transparency to assure citizens of the safety and security of our airspace. Meanwhile, President Mahama has instructed that the matter be investigated thoroughly, but the government maintains that the allegations are politically motivated and lack merit. Watch the video below; Meet Naomi Wolali Kwetey, wife of NDC General Secretary who has just been nominated as acting MD of Consolidated Bank Ghana Enoch Darfah Frimpong Apr - 04 - 2025 , 00:25 2 minutes read Naomi Wolali Kwetey has been nominated as the acting Managing Director of the Consolidated Bank Ghana Ltd (CBG). Her nomination by President John Dramani Mahama for the topmost position of the commercial bank was made known in a letter dated March 26, 2025, signed by the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson and addressed to the Board Chairman of the CBG. She was nominated alongside Ms Shiela Azuntaba for the positions of Managing Director and Deputy Managing Director of CBG, respectively, effective March 26, 2025. The letter from the Finance Minister, a copy of which has been seen by Graphic Online and addressed to the Board Chairman of CBG with attention to the Company Secretary, indicated that, "You [Board] are required to regularize the appointments in compliance with the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992) and the Bank's Constitution. Read also: Dr Naomi Kwetey: I accept CBG MD job with deep sense of duty and commitment to advancing banks vision of financial stability Who is Naomi Wolali Kwetey? Dr Mrs Naomi Wolali Kwetey is the wife of the General Secretary of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Fifi Fiavi Kwetey. She has been working at Ecobank Ghana and the previous Trust Bank which was acquired by Ecobank in 2011. She has experience as a financial expert and a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (FCIB) and a Chartered Dealer (ACI) with over 30 years of banking experience in corporate banking, treasury management, credit, and strategic management. She has worked as a turnaround leader with a focus on supervisory controls and sustainable growth within Ghanas banking sector. She has served in many positions in her career including Deputy Head of Credit Administration, Treasurer, Head Financial Institution and Markets, Business Manager for Financial Institutions and International Organisation, and Head of Customer Experience at Ecobank Ghana. Dr Mrs Naomi Wolali Kwetey served as the Head of Customer Experience with responsibility for five countries in West Africa at Ecobank. She has a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA), a Master of Arts degree in Business and International Banking and Finance, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. Writer's email: [email protected] Follow @enochfrimpong Follow @Graphicgh Police investigate death of Constable during anti-galamsey operation Jemima Okang Addae Apr - 04 - 2025 , 12:10 1 minute read The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Constable John Kwabena Dogbey, which occurred on April 2, 2025, at Assin Domeabra in the Central Region. According to a statement issued by the Public Affairs Officer of the Central North Region, ASP Francis Onyina, preliminary investigations indicate that Constable Dogbey, who was part of the Central North Regional Police Anti-Galamsey Taskforce, slipped and fell into the Offin River while dismantling a chanfan machine used by illegal miners. He stated that, after several hours of intensive search efforts involving local divers, the constables body was recovered and transported to the St. Francis Xavier Hospital in Assin Foso. Unfortunately, the medical officer on duty pronounced him dead upon arrival. The body has since been transferred to the Police Hospital morgue in Accra for preservation and a post-mortem examination. ASP Onyina added that the Police Administration is in contact with the bereaved family and is providing the necessary support during this difficult period. "The Taskforce was able to dismantle one chanfan machine, take custody of two pumping machines, two excavator batteries and three excavator keys and their chassis numbers," he said. Read the full statement below; Next article: Ablakwa: Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister summons US Ambassador over 10% tariff on exports President Mahama to host Czech President Petr Pavel on three-day state visit GraphicOnline Apr - 04 - 2025 , 16:49 1 minute read President John Dramani Mahama is set to host the President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, for a three-day state visit to Ghana next week, marking the first official state visit under President Mahamas new term in office. According to a statement signed by Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the visit will reinforce diplomatic ties between Ghana and the Czech Republic, and promote strategic cooperation across key sectors. During the visit, President Petr Pavel will engage in bilateral discussions with President Mahama aimed at strengthening trade, investment, and development cooperation. He is also expected to address a high-level business forum, inaugurate a Czech-funded health facility, and tour notable heritage sites, including the Osu Castle and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. President Mahama will also host a State Dinner in honour of the Czech leader. The visit signals deepening relations between Accra and Prague and highlights both nations commitment to expanding mutual cooperation in areas such as health, commerce, and cultural exchange Prof. Samuel Kobina Annim removed as Government Statistician Kester Aburam Korankye Apr - 04 - 2025 , 19:25 2 minutes read President John Mahama has appointed Dr Alhassan Iddrisu as acting Government Statistician pending mandatory consultations with the Council of State, according to an official statement from the Presidency released Friday night. The statement, signed by Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, outlined Dr Iddrisu's qualifications for the role. Currently serving as Director of the Economic Strategy and Research Division at the Ministry of Finance, Dr Iddrisu leads national efforts in macroeconomic analysis, forecasting and policy research. His responsibilities include coordinating real and external sector assessments while providing technical guidance for Ghana's Macroeconomic Outlook Report. Experience Prior to his current position, Dr Iddrisu served as Director of the Economic Research and Forecasting Division from 2013 to 2019, where he supervised national macroeconomic modeling. Between 2010 and 2013, he acted as Director of the Real Sector Division, leading research on sectoral growth and productivity trends. The statement highlighted Dr Iddrisu's academic credentials, including a PhD in International Development Studies from Japan's National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies, a Master of Public Administration in Public and Economic Policy from the London School of Economics, and both MPhil and BA degrees in Economics from the University of Ghana. Beyond his government service, Dr Iddrisu serves as part-time lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, and has consulted for international organizations including Oxfam GB and the World Bank. The statement noted his representation of the Ministry on various governing boards and technical committees where he contributes to economic governance decisions. Consultations The appointment takes immediate effect, though the statement emphasised this remains subject to completion of constitutionally required consultations with the Council of State. The President expressed confidence in Dr Iddrisu's ability to provide effective leadership during this transitional period. The outgoing Government Statistician, Professor Samuel Kobina Annim, was appointed by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration in March 2019. Prior to joining the Statistical Service, he was an associate professor at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) where he worked for over 18 years. As the head of the Ghana Statistical Service, the Government Statistician is responsible for ensuring the production of high-quality statistical data to inform decision-making at all levels of government. Collaborate with security agencies to expose wrongdoing - Agalga urges Ntim Fordjour Samuel Duodu Politics Apr - 04 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read The Chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, James Agalga, has urged the Ranking Member of the committee, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, to collaborate with the security agencies investigating the suspected drug trafficking and money laundering at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA). This, he said, would help expose any wrongdoing and also safeguard the reputation of the country. He has, therefore, assured Rev. Fordjour that the committee will take urgent steps to invite the various security agencies and the National Security Coordinator to brief the committee on the outcome of investigations conducted so far in relation to his request when Parliament reconvenes. Mr Agalga, who is also the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Builsa North in the Upper East Region, was responding to a request by Rev. Fordjour for the committee to invite the security agencies to brief Parliament on investigations being conducted into the incident at the KIA, the raid at Sapeiman and the cocaine seizure, which he (Rev. Fordjour) said were of public interest. Request In a letter dated April 2, 2025, and addressed to the Chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee, Rev. Fordjour, who is also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Assin South in the Central Region, urged the committee to summon the security agencies the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), and the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) to appear before Parliament on Monday, April 7, 2025. "I write to request for the committee to invite the above-stated security agencies under the oversight of the Committee on Defence and Interior to attend upon the Committee on Monday, April 7, 2025, at 1100 hours in the Committee Room of Parliament," the letter read. The purpose of this proposed meeting is to afford the agencies the opportunity to brief the committee and provide updates on investigations being conducted into high-profile reported incidents of serious and urgent public interest, the letter further stated. In the letter, he outlined the need for a briefing on three critical incidents: the first involving a National Security-led operation on February 9, 2025, in Sapeiman, which resulted in the discovery of twelve 20-foot containers filled with gold bars and various currencies. The second focused on two significant cocaine seizures in March, with a combined value of $470 million while the third is on two flights, AirMed Flight N823AM and Cavok Air Antonov An-12B, that landed at Kotoka International Airport from Gran Canaria on March 12 and March 20, respectively, and reportedly departed on March 25. Response Responding to the request in a letter, Mr Agalga urged the Assin South Legislator to instead comply with the directive from President John Mahama to collaborate with the security agencies in investigating the drug trafficking allegations. In view of the fact that the allegation made by your good self in relation to drug trafficking and money laundering with the involvement of two aircraft namely: AirMed Flight N823 AM and Cavok Air Antonov ANI2B which landed at the Kotoka Airport border on the commission of crime, it is important that you collaborate with the security agencies to expose any wrongdoing and also to safeguard the reputation of our beloved country, he said. Subsequently, urgent steps will be taken to invite the agencies listed above and the National Security Coordinator to brief the committee on the outcome of investigations conducted so far in relation to your request when the House reconvenes, he added. Previous article: Will iPhones cost more because of Trump's tariffs on China? Who might buy TikTok as ban deadline looms? Amazon joins bidders BBC Technology Apr - 04 - 2025 , 10:58 4 minutes read President Donald Trump says he is "very close" to brokering a deal to find a buyer for TikTok, which faces a US ban if its Chinese owner does not sell the app by the weekend. A bipartisan law passed by Congress last year mandates TikTok's Chinese parent company, ByteDance, sell the app. The platform 'went dark' for a day in January in the US after the law took effect, until Trump intervened and delayed the ban until 5 April. The US government has said TikTok poses a threat to national security because Chinese authorities might access its vast trove of user data, which Beijing denies. Who might buy TikTok? Speaking on Air Force One on Thursday, Trump said "multiple investors" were closing in on a deal. He also suggested the US could offer a deal where China agrees to approve a TikTok sale in exchange for relief from US tariffs on Chinese imports. Several potential buyers have cropped up in reports. Amazon has put in a last-minute offer to the White House to acquire TikTok, according to the BBC's US partner CBS. Amazon declined to comment. Trump has said he would be open to selling TikTok to Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, as well as Elon Musk, although the latter said he had no intention of buying. Other potential buyers include billionaire Frank McCourt, together with Canadian businessman Kevin O'Leary - a celebrity investor on Shark Tank, the US version of Dragons' Den. Alexis Ohanian, who co-founded Reddit, said in a post on X last month that he had joined Mr McCourt's bid. The biggest YouTuber in the world Jimmy Donaldson - AKA MrBeast - has also said he's looking to buy TikTok as part of a group of investors. Tim Stokely, the British founder of OnlyFans, has also to offered to buy TikTok under his recently re-launched company, Zoop. Computing giant Microsoft, private equity giant Blackstone, venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz and search engine Perplexity AI are also reportedly in the running for a stake. The White House has reportedly considered an option whereby ByteDance would keep ownership of TikTok's algorithm, but lease it to a new entity operating the video-sharing app within the US. MrBeast is the most popular YouTuber in the world with more than 300m subscribers If there is no deal, will TikTok be banned? If no deal is reached by 5 April, the app could once again face a US ban and be pulled from app stores. Trump signed an executive order in January, which only delayed TikTok's ban by 75 days. His order did not overturn the ban on the app passed into law by Congress and upheld by the US Supreme Court. Trump could allow the law to stand, but ask the Department of Justice to continue to ignore it. The government would effectively be telling Apple and Google they will not be punished for allowing people to download TikTok on to their devices. TikTok returned to Google's Play Store and Apple's App Store in February, after the companies were reportedly told they would not face consequences for hosting it. Trump has also said he would "probably" extend the deadline, if needed. President Donald Trump has said he would "like to see TikTok remain alive". What other platforms could TikTok users use instead? TikTok says it has 170 million US users who spent - on average - 51 minutes per day on the app in 2024. Experts say rivals such as Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts could benefit if Trump's efforts to broker a sale of TikTok don't succeed. "Chief marketing officers who we've spoken with confirmed that they will divert their media dollars to Meta and Google if they can no longer advertise on TikTok," said Kelsey Chickering, an analyst at market research company Forrester. Other potential winners include Amazon's Twitch, which made its name by hosting livestreams - a popular feature on TikTok. Twitch is well known particularly to gamers, though its other content is expanding, too. Other Chinese-owned platforms, such as Xiaohongshu - known as RedNote among its US users - have also seen rapid growth in the US and the UK. It didnt take long for China to retaliate against the Trump administrations new Liberation Day tariffs. Effective April 10, China is imposing a reciprocal 34% tariff on all US imports. The accompanying press release by the Chinese Ministry of Finance refers to the Trump tariffs as a unilateral bullying practice and urges the United States to immediately cancel its unilateral tariff measures and resolve trade differences through consultation in an equal, respectful and mutually beneficial manner. China is also restricting exports of rare earth minerals used in a broad range of sectors, from semiconductors to electric vehicles, effective immediately. In addition to the new 34% tariff, China has blocked 11 US defense and drone companies from trading and exporting from China. An additional 16 US companies were added to Chinas export control list. Chinas Ministry of Commerce also filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization, which accuses the Trump tariffs of violating WTO rules. The US exported $143.5 billion in goods to China in 2024. Source (in Chinese) These are the best offers from our affiliate partners. We may get a commission from qualifying sales. A Texas resident who sued Lotte Hotel Guam and its insurer in a 2022 slip and fall incident entered into a settlement, based on federal court documents. The woman sued for serious personal injuries that resulted in hospitalization after she slipped and fell on a wet and slippery floor of Lotte Hotel in August 2022. Elaine M. Rodriguez, through her attorneys Victorino DLG. Torres and Matthew J. Holley, originally alleged the incident happened around 11:30 a.m. on or about Aug. 28, 2022 as she stepped out of Lotte Hotels elevator. She was staying at the hotel as an in-house guest at the time. She relocated to Guam with her husband in 2022 because he had a military assignment, but she retained residence in Texas and planned to return there after his service ended, according to documents. Rodriguez sued Lotte and its insurance company DB Insurance over the incident and the case has been in the District Court of Guam since she filed her lawsuit in May 2023. The case was set to go to trial in August, but the parties were able to reach a settlement. A settlement conference was originally scheduled for April 22 but on March 31, Lotte Hotel filed a stipulation and order for dismissal with prejudice. The parties have a confidential settlement agreement, that all of Rodriguezs claims filed in her amended complaint shall be dismissed with prejudice, and each party shall bear their respective costs and attorneys fees, according to court documents. The lawsuit said Rodriguez suffered serious personal injuries, which required hospitalization under the care of professional medical staff. Besides incurring medical expenses at the time and in the future, the plaintiff also said in her complaint that she sustained severe pain and suffering and emotional and mental distress, and has suffered diminished quality of life. Rodriguez originally sought compensatory damages for medical care and expenses, bodily injury and special damages in the amount to be proven at trial and in excess of $75,000, as well as other relief to which she is entitled to. Police are asking for the publics help as they look for two men in connection with a fatal shooting in the village of Hagat Thursday night. At 9:40 p.m., police responded to a reported shooting on Mao Drive. They found an injured man with a gunshot to the upper torso. The man, a Hagat resident, was taken to Guam Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Guam Police Departments Criminal Investigation Division was activated and assumed control of the investigation. Police are asking for the communitys help finding two men. The first man is described as short, heavy-set and bald. He was wearing black clothing and carrying an unknown type of pistol. The second man is described as short and slim. He was wearing a red shirt and brown shorts. The slain mans next of kin have not been identified. GPD does not have further releasable information at this time, spokesman Norm Analista stated in a news release. GPD remains committed to ensuring the safety of our community and will provide updates as more information becomes available. GPD extends heartfelt condolences to the family. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call GPD dispatch at 671-475-8615-7. Guam Police Department detectives are looking for three suspects in connection with a shooting and kidnapping reported in Yigo, according to a news release from spokesman Norm Analista. A man was abducted from his residence on Chalan Gachai Kattan by multiple suspects sometime Tuesday. He was placed in a silver sedan and assaulted by the suspects while his legs were bound. A suspect produced a silver handgun and shot the victim in the torso and left the scene, Analista stated in the release. Guam Fire Department personnel responded to the scene and brought the injured man to Guam Regional Medical City. Police are looking for: Jathan John Pangelinan Tedtaotao, 29. He is described as being 511 tall and weighing 220 pounds. He has a history of arrests for violent offenses. Jeromy Moe John Pangelinan, 27. He is described as being 510 tall and weighing 200 pounds. He is currently on probation and has a history of arrests for violent offenses. Shaenita Elayne Pangelinan, 26. She is described as being 50 tall and weighing 110 pounds. She has two outstanding warrants and a history of arrests for violent offenses. The three suspects are believed to be armed with a silver pistol. All three are known to frequent Swamp Road in Dededo and Chalan Emsley in Yigo, according to a wanted poster circulated by police. Police are asking anyone with information about the attack or the whereabouts of the suspects to call 671-475-8615 through 17 or contact Guam Crime Stoppers at http://www.guam.crimestoppersweb.com/. Information provided will remain confidential. Guam Department of Education Superintendent Erik Swanson appealed to U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon to give Guam another year or through March 2026 to use $125 million in American Rescue Plan funds, saying schools currently under repairs are at risk without this funding. The appeal letter came days after McMahon issued a letter setting a March 28, 2025 deadline to spend ARP funds. Meanwhile, Sen. Shawn Gumataotao on Friday afternoon asked Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero to issue an executive order that would deploy financial and grants management personnel from executive branch agencies to provide GDOE with technical assistance. This is necessary to preserve federal resources for their intended use, the freshman senator wrote. Gumataotao said theres a shared desire to prevent the financial crisis at GDOE from further affecting students education because of a failure by our local education department to properly administer critical federal assistance including COVID-19 pandemic recovery funding it received four years ago. He suggested agencies that could help include the Guam State Clearinghouse, Bureau of Budget and Management Research and the Department of Administration. As decision makers we must use every resource at our disposal to prevent the GDOE crisis from getting worse than it already is at this point. If not addressed, this emergency threatens the financial solvency of the government of Guam and our collective ability to deliver critical public services now and in the fiscal years going forward, Gumataotao said. Projects 40% complete Swanson wrote the appeal letter on April 4, requesting an extension of the liquidation period for ARP funds through March 2026, and the reinstatement of GDOEs current unliquidated balance, totaling about $125 million. While the Department has declared the COVID-19 pandemic over and closed the standard liquidation period, the long-term educational and infrastructural impacts of the pandemic persistparticularly in under-resourced and geographically isolated areas like ours. The requested extension is essential to mitigate the enduring effects of COVID-19 on our students, staff, and community, Swanson wrote. GDOE has 13 approved ARP-funded capital improvement projects to address immediate pandemic-related challenges and ensure long-term resilience, safety, and academic recovery in the islands public schools. Core Tech bagged GDOEs school refurbishment contract. These projects are currently active and approximately 40% complete. Contracts have been executed, vendors secured, and work is ongoing. However, the inability to access the remaining grant funds would result in incomplete facilities, interrupted services, and diminished returns on federal investment, Swanson wrote to McMahon. He said local funds are not available to absorb the financial loss. Without reinstatement of these grant funds and an extension of the liquidation deadline, we risk jeopardizing vital infrastructure that was designed to safeguard learning continuity and promote equitable access for American students still grappling with post-pandemic disruptions, he said. The superintendent is urging USDOE to exercise its discretion in granting the extension and reinstating the unliquidated balance. Doing so would allow us to fulfill the intended purpose of the ARP funds: to create safe, equitable, and supportive learning environments that address both the immediate and lasting consequences of COVID-19, Swanson wrote. GDOE is prepared to provide any additional documentation or progress reporting necessary to support the request, he said. $27M lost This comes as GDOE said it lost about $27 million in other federal education grants as it failed to use them on time, which drew sharp criticism from the Guam Education Board and senators. Discussions at the board meeting Tuesday indicated that GDOE failed to properly manage and allocate grant funds, leading to the expiration of $27 million in federal funding. The expired funds included special education grants, as well as federal programs like the Consolidated Grant, and Elementary and Secondary Education Relief funds. Swanson acknowledged the issue and assured the board that GDOE will make the corrective action. Sen. Vince Borja, education chairman, immediately inquired about the return of $26,877,038.76 in unused federal grant funds, and plans to call a roundtable discussion with education officials. A taxi driver is accused of sexually assaulting a tourist while at Fort Santa Agueda in Agana Heights on Thursday, according to a magistrates complaint filed in Superior Court of Guam. A tourist and her friend arrived on Guam on March 30 and met 59-year-old Jimmy Cantre Jimenez through the hotel taxi service stop. Another tax driver offered to take the two women out after he completed taxi service. The two men and two tourists drank alcohol together, but instead of driving them back to their hotel, the taxi drivers brought them to Fort Santa Agueda. The woman thought they were back at the hotel, but the taxi drivers told her they were at a lookout. As the tourist was taking a photo, Jimenez leaned in and kissed her on the mouth. She told him no multiple times and attempted to get up to leave, the complaint states. He then grabbed her by the left arm, inserted his tongue in her mouth, and grabbed her breast, documents state. She told Jimenez no multiple times, but he continued to kiss her and then sexually assaulted the woman, the complaint states. He then pulled down his pants to expose his penis and placed the womans hand on it, documents state. The woman pulled her hand away and started crying and Jimenez told her to keep it a secret, the complaint states. The woman cried all the way back to the hotel and immediately told the hotel manager what happened. The woman went to the restroom, and she saw that she was bleeding as a result of the sexual assault, the complaint states. Police apprehended Jimenez who admitted to kissing the woman, touching her breast, and inserting his fingers into her vagina, documents state. He admitted what he did was wrong, according to the complaint. He was charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct as a second-degree felony and three counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct as misdemeanors, the complaint states. Earlier on Friday, the Guam Police Department announced that Jimenez was arrested for the alleged assault. Around noon Thursday, officers at the precinct received a walk-in complaint from a visiting tourist for an incident that occurred in the early morning hours. The woman and her friend were transported by taxi service to various establishments before arriving at Fort Apugan in Agana Heights. While at the location, the tourist alleged she was subjected to unwanted sexual contact by one of the individuals present, police said. The suspect, Jimmy Jimenez, of Dededo, was summoned to the precinct where an interview was conducted. He was arrested on suspicion of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, police said. Anyone wanting to report a crime or provide any additional information can contact GPD at (671) 475-8615 through (671) 475-8617. Haiti - Insecurity : The Sosyete Lafrik Ginen peristyle was ransacked and set on fire The insecurity plaguing Haiti also attacks memory, that fragile link between the living and their ancestors, which is under attack from armed groups. In Port-au-Prince, where terror rules the roost, historical, archaeological, and cultural sites are becoming forbidden territories, abandoned for lack of protection. Voodoo, the beating heart of Haitian identity, has not escaped the destruction. The "Sosyete Lafrik Ginen" peristyle in Martissant is a silent witness to this. Set ablaze by armed men, its deities were thrown into the flames. But amidst the ashes, a few artifacts survived. Thanks to the vigilance of the Hounsis (initiates) and the intervention of the National Bureau of Ethnology (BNE), some sacred objects have been saved, mutilated witnesses to a memory that is being erased. From this tragedy was born a collection with the meaningful title "Violated Objects of Martissant." Now preserved at the BNE, this collection embodies the resilience of a wounded but living heritage. It's not just a temple that's burning. It's not just wood and stone that's being destroyed. It's a culture that's being slowly murdered. A people who abandon their memory are creating their own disappearance. The National Bureau of Ethnology calls on the collective conscience : "Protecting our heritage means defending our identity. A people without memory is nothing but a silence destined for oblivion." BNE/ HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... Les Cayes : Entrepreneur Jerson Borga Murdered Entrepreneur Jerson Borga was shot dead by individuals riding a motorcycle in the town of Les Cayes. The businessman was hit by four bullets while driving his vehicle. Brazil Visa : CAVB Closed In view of the overall security situation, the Brazil Visa Application Center (CAVB) will remain closed this Friday, April 4th, 2025. We hope to resume our normal operations as soon as possible. Any beneficiaries who may be impacted by this situation, which is beyond our control, will be taken care of at a later date once our activities resume. 20 tons of vital aid landed in Port-au-Prince A flight organized by the World Food Program (WFP) landed in Port-au-Prince, delivering 20 tons of vital aid: medicines, sanitation equipment, and shelter, to seven organizations fighting the internally displaced person crisis and the cholera epidemic. It also carried urgent laboratory equipment for the National Laboratory of Haiti. Violent attack in Tabarre The town of Tabarre was the scene of a violent attack by heavily armed individuals who attempted to take control of the Motorized Intervention Brigades (CBIM) base in Clercine. According to a police source, law enforcement faced simultaneous attacks in Tabarre 27 and Clercine, but the police managed to repel the criminals in both cases. The cost of registering a business name has doubled The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) announces that, as of April 1st, 2025, the application fee for registering a business name has increased from 1,500 to 3,000 gourdes. This measure aims to improve service and better meet administrative requirements. Partial Evacuation of Mirebalais Hospital Amidst the insecurity and attacks by armed groups in the city, officials at the Mirebalais University Hospital have, as a precautionary measure, partially evacuated approximately fifty patients to other nearby hospitals. Dr. Reginald Ternier, Director of the Clinical Program that manages the HUM, emphasized that to date, the hospital has not suffered any direct gang attacks. HL/ HaitiLibre Microsoft has announced that it is working on Hyperlight Wasm. The project can already be found on GitHub, but still has experimental status. It allows WebAssembly (Wasm) modules to be executed within a Hyperlight micro VM (virtual machine), which should deliver both high performance and security. Anzeige Hyperlight was developed by Microsoft Azure Core Upstream and introduced in November 2024. It is an open-source Rust library that Microsoft has since handed over to the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) as a sandbox project. It is used to create micro virtual machines and specializes in executing untrusted code securely with low latency and minimal overhead. These micro VMs work without a kernel or operating system, but use guests that are created for Hyperlight using the Hyperlight Guest Library. Guests are programs that combine a specialized kernel with an application runtime into a single program. Further details can be found in the announcement article. Building on Hyperlight, Microsoft is now working on the development of Hyperlight Wasm, a Rust library crate. Hyperlight Wasm is intended to enable the execution of Wasm component workloads as Hyperlight guest in many programming languages. Goals of Hyperlight Wasm: compatibility, speed and security As the development team explains, traditional VMs have the disadvantage that compatibility can be limited in favor of performance. Compatibility problems can affect both the operating system and the system interface layer or the programming language and library. This is where the WebAssembly approach comes in. As Microsoft explains, WebAssembly System Interface (WASI) and the WebAssembly Component Model enable lightweight execution environments in which programs written in almost any programming language can run. Hyperlight Wasm takes advantage of this and allows the implementation of a small set of high-level, high-performance abstractions in almost any execution environment while offering broad compatibility. In addition to performance, security should also benefit from Hyperlight Wasm. Hyperlight Wasm uses the Wasmtime runtime, compiled as a Rust-no_std module to a Hyperlight guest. Wasmtime should stand out due to strict isolation limits for Wasm workloads based on a software-defined runtime sandbox. Potential attackers would therefore have to overcome two security layers: the Wasm sandbox and the virtual machine. Anzeige Hyperlight Wasm is available on GitHub. Microsoft provides further background information and future plans for Hyperlight Wasm in its open source blog. (mai) Don't miss any news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication. With 2.1 divorces per 1,000 residents, Finland ranked third among EU countries, behind Latvia (2.8) and Lithuania. The EU average was 1.6 divorces per 1,000 people. Finland recorded one of the highest divorce rates in the European Union in 2023, according to new data from Eurostat. The figures place Finland above neighbouring Sweden, which had similar but slightly lower rates. Luxembourg and Denmark also reported comparable numbers. Finlands divorce rate has remained consistently above the EU average since Eurostat began recording the data in 1964. Over the past 60 years, divorce has become more common across the continent, with rates roughly doubling in that time. Marriage rates in Finland have moved in the opposite direction. According to the same Eurostat dataset, Finland continues to report fewer marriages per capita than the EU average. In contrast, countries such as Romania and Latvia reported the highest marriage rates in the bloc last year. The decline in marriage has been steady for decades. Since the 1960s, the rate of new marriages has halved both in Finland and across the EU. Cohabitation is much more common in Finland than elsewhere in Europe. This is why there are fewer marriages, especially compared to Southern Europe, said Osmo Kontula, research professor emeritus at the Population Research Institute. He noted that changes in relationship behaviour in Finland began in the 1970s, when cohabiting without marriage became socially acceptable. Finland has been quite a liberal country when it comes to relationships, Kontula added. Legal and cultural factors have also shaped national divorce rates. In many Southern European countries, strong Catholic traditions have played a role in maintaining higher marriage rates and lower divorce rates. In some countries, such as Italy, Spain, Ireland and Malta, divorce was banned until relatively recently. Kontula emphasised that national legislation affects the comparability of marriage and divorce statistics across the EU. While the divorce rate in Finland remains high by EU standards, it reflects broader changes in relationship norms and legal frameworks that have evolved over time. HT Finland has approved amendments to its Aliens Act, granting authorities broader powers to detain non-citizens and impose long-term entry bans on those deemed threats to public order or national security. The revised law, signed by President Alexander Stubb on Friday, comes into force on 6 May. It extends detention limits and allows more severe restrictions on foreign nationals in cases involving deportation or risk of absconding. The new provisions enable Finnish authorities to detain a non-citizen for up to 18 months during deportation proceedings, up from the previous 12-month maximum. Individuals considered a security threat can now be held for up to a year even before a removal decision is made. The law also allows children to be detained for up to six months in certain situations. A child may be kept in detention with a custodian for up to three months to preserve family contact, with the period extendable if deportation is delayed due to non-cooperation by the adult. An expanded definition of "risk of absconding" has been introduced to clarify detention conditions. The legislation also tightens rules around entry bans. Third-country nationals who do not leave Finland by the required deadline may now face bans of up to 15 years, tripling the previous limit of five. Authorities also retain the right to issue indefinite bans in certain cases. A person residing outside Finland may now have their residence permit withdrawn and be subjected to an entry ban without being interviewed, if they are found to pose a danger to public order or national security. According to the Finnish government, led by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, the changes are part of a wider effort to reinforce the countrys migration control policies. A government statement issued Thursday said the amendments aim to ensure efficient removal of individuals who are staying in the country illegally, to better safeguard public order and national security, and to prepare for new kinds of situations that could jeopardise security. The new measures are included in the Orpo administrations 2023 legislative programme. The statement also indicated that further tightening of asylum and immigration rules is expected. The Finnish Immigration Service currently manages detention units in Helsinki and Joutseno. These facilities are used for holding foreign nationals during removal proceedings or when considered a flight risk or threat to public safety. Finland has already taken steps in recent years to restrict immigration, limit asylum access, and increase removals. The new legal provisions mark a continuation of that trend, with a focus on national security and stricter enforcement. HT By Akbar Novruz Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian is set to make his first official visit to Azerbaijan this month, following an agreement reached during a phone conversation with President Ilham Aliyev on March 31. The statement from both sides highlighted a mutual interest in fostering "friendship and brotherhood," but does this visit signal a true shift in Azerbaijani-Iranian relations? Or will it simply be a diplomatic formality without significant breakthroughs? Political expert Asif Narimanli shared his insights with Azernews, emphasizing that the visit should not be seen as the start of a new chapter just yet: "Actually, I think Pezeshkian's visit cannot be called the beginning of a new stage in Azerbaijani-Iranian relations. Perhaps, official Baku will try to learn the position and political line of the new Iranian President with this meeting. President Ilham Aliyev also stated this in an interview with local TV channels at the beginning of the year, saying that official Baku is very interested in the normalization process between the two countries. Even for this purpose, the Azerbaijani embassy in Iran was restored. However, currently, Masoud Pezeshkian's new position is not yet clear. In order for this to be clear, a meeting between officials of the two countries was necessary. This is also Baku's expectation, and it seems that Tehran is also interested in this. Undoubtedly, the normalization process between the two countries also coincided with the last periods of the rule and life of the late President Ibrahim Raisi. Although after his death, a number of points arose regarding whether the normalization process between the countries would continue or not. Because it is clear that there are a number of forces in Iran that are against Azerbaijan and these forces are interested in straining relations with Azerbaijan. For example, the IRGC wing supports a political line based on pressure on official Baku and has not hesitated to state this repeatedly on social networks. In this regard, they have taken provocative steps from time to time. Today, Pezeshkian's visit means that they are interested in continuing the normalization line. Although it is not excluded that provocative steps have been taken within Iran with the relaunch of this diplomatic line. These should also be taken into account." The visit comes at a crucial moment for Iran, as Narimanli points out, particularly given the changing geopolitical landscape with Donald Trumps return to the White House and increasing pressure on Tehran: "Of course, there are also a number of interesting points here. With the election of Donald Trump as US President for a second term, there are facts such as increased pressure on Iran, claims that there will be military intervention and increased sanctions, which caused a major crisis in the Pezeshkian administration, which led to the resignation of many high-ranking officials in recent weeks. In this context, it is important for Iran to normalize relations with Azerbaijan, the leading country in the South Caucasus. We know that in Iran the main political will comes from the religious leader, and this visit of Pezeshkian shows that this visit should be considered in a concrete way as a decision made by the Iranian state as a whole." Ultimately, Pezeshkians visit will serve as an important litmus test for Azerbaijan-Iran relations. Whether it leads to substantive progress or remains a diplomatic courtesy will depend on both sides willingness to address long-standing issues and overcome internal pressures. By Nazrin Abdul Azerbaijan is launching major initiatives, including the delivery of green energy from wind power plants, both within the country and from Central Asia to Europe. Azernews reports that Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov made this announcement during his speech at the 11th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. Shahbazov noted that last year, natural gas accounted for 13% of electricity production in the European Union, with some countries seeing figures as high as 35-40%. He highlighted several strategic Green Energy CorridorsCaspian Sea-Black Sea-Europe, Central Asia-Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan-Turkiye, and Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkiye-Bulgariathat aim to diversify Europes energy supplies. He also mentioned the establishment of a joint venture between the Central Asia and Azerbaijan Energy Corridor, with funding from the Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Two potential export routes have been identified, and a memorandum of understanding on electricity cooperation between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, and Bulgaria is expected to be signed. Shahbazov expressed confidence that the Southern Gas Corridor will become a major platform for large-scale cooperation, creating new opportunities in energy security. A newly discovered North Korean drone facility is raising alarms among military analysts, with experts warning that Pyongyang may be rapidly advancing its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilitiespotentially with Russian assistance. According to a new report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), North Korea appears to have established a new unit dedicated to the development and testing of strategic drones, Korea Joongang Daily reported. This comes amid rising concerns that Pyongyang is seeking to bolster its weak air surveillance network and counter the aerial dominance of South Korea and the United States. The think tank's North Korea-focused platform, Beyond Parallel, revealed on Tuesday that "seven new drone hangars, each 40 meters wide, are believed to have been built since July or August of last year at the Banghyon Air Base in Kusong City, North Pyongan Province." Recent satellite imagery of the airbase taken last Friday showed a cluster of red-roofed hangarsan unmistakable sign of increased UAV activity. "Banghyon Air Base is the home of North Korea's largest unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)," the Beyond Parallel report confirmed. "North Korea appears to have created a unit operating eight to 16 aircraft for small-scale experiments and test flights of Saetbyeol-4, Saetbyeol-9, and similar-grade large reconnaissance UAVs." The report noted that, until 2023, smaller UAVs fell under the jurisdiction of the Reconnaissance General Bureau, while strategic UAVs were controlled by the Korean People's Army. However, the latest intelligence suggests that a new, as-yet-unnamed organization may now oversee the entire drone program. The Banghyon Air Base is no ordinary facility. It was here that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un personally observed test flights of an airborne early warning and control aircraft, as well as suicide and reconnaissance drones, during his March 25-26 visit. Drone manufacturing is reportedly taking place at two locations: the June 1 Factory near Banghyon Air Base and an undisclosed facility between Pyongyang and Pyongsong, South Pyongan Province. North Korean state media recently unveiled an upgraded version of the Saetbyeol-4 drone, a high-altitude UAV that bears a striking resemblance to the U.S. Global Hawk. However, Beyond Parallel concluded that "as of now, it is assessed that it simply copied the external appearance of the aircraft and was not equipped with advanced equipment similar to that of the U.S." This aligns with assessments from South Korean military officials, who have dismissed Pyongyang's latest UAV as more of a showpiece than a functional weapon. The Beyond Parallel report further noted similarities between the Saetbyeol-4 and China's high-altitude reconnaissance UAV, the WZ-7. However, analysts warn that if North Korea successfully develops a working version and deploys it near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) or inside South Korea's Air Defense Identification Zone (KADIZ), it could significantly enhance Pyongyang's situational awareness of the region. Ultimately, experts believe this move is designed to counter South Korea's Kill Chain and Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation (KMPR) phases of the three-axis defense system by strengthening North Korea's unmanned surveillance capabilities. Recent reports also suggest that North Korea is not acting alone. Intelligence sources have confirmed that North Korean troops learned advanced drone warfare tactics from Russia during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In a stunning revelation, a high-ranking Russian commander from the Ukrainian front lines was recently spotted among Moscow's diplomatic delegation to Pyongyang. However, HNGN cannot independently verify the claims. India reacted cautiously on Thursday to US President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs, with the government saying it was examining both "implications" and "opportunities" from the duty hikes. Indian stocks fell at the open of trading on Thursday, with the benchmark Nifty index trading more than 0.3 percent down in the afternoon. Trump, speaking while unveiling the tariffs at the White House on Wednesday, said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was a "great friend" but that he had not been "treating us right". India's Department of Commerce said on Thursday it is "carefully examining the implications of the various measures". It also added in a statement that it was "studying the opportunities that may arise due to this new development", a likely reference to regional competitors being hit harder. An initial White House chart revealing the tariffs listed India at 26 percent but an annexe cited by New Delhi put the duties at 27 percent. Indian exporters said they were disappointed and relieved in equal measure. "The tariffs slapped on India are definitely both high and higher than expected, which will hurt demand for our exports," Ajay Sahai, director general of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations, told AFP. But Sahai also pointed out that India was hit with lower levies than manufacturing rivals. "Many countries which we compete with globally, including China, Indonesia, and Vietnam etc, have been hit harder than us," he said. "That opens up space for us to gain in terms of market share. But at the same time, if more countries retaliate and global trade gets hurt, this isn't good for anyone." A White House fact sheet said that pharmaceutical goods would be exempt from the reciprocal tariffs, providing relief to an Indian industry that shipped more than $8 billion in exports to the United States in the 2024 fiscal year. Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance secretary general Sudarshan Jain said that showed "the critical role of cost-effective, life-saving generic medicines in public health, economic stability, and national security". New Delhi is also in the process of negotiating the first tranche of a bilateral trade agreement with Washington. India sought to reduce trade tensions with Washington in the run-up to Trump's "Liberation Day" announcement by cutting tariffs on some products, including high-end motorcycles and whisky. Experts say that India's future policy responses should also take into account China's next steps. "Asia has been hit much more than India on tariffs," said Madhavi Arora, chief economist at Emkay Global Financial Services. "China's survival response to the massive tariff blow will matter for India, amid its excess industrial capacity and dumping in the world/Asian markets." Global Trade Research Initiative, a New Delhi-based think tank, said the tariff shakeup "presents an opportunity for India to strengthen its position in global trade and manufacturing". It said India had been handed a "competitive advantage" in several key sectors, highlighting textiles and garments, with Chinese and Bangladeshi rivals hit by high tariffs. The global artificial intelligence market is projected to reach $4.8 trillion -- roughly the size of Germany's economy -- by 2033, the UN said Thursday, warning nearly half of jobs worldwide could be affected. While AI is transforming economies and creating vast opportunities, the technology also risks deepening existing inequalities, the UN trade and development agency UNCTAD warned in a report. In particular, the report cautioned that "AI could impact 40 percent of jobs worldwide, offering productivity gains but also raising concerns about automation and job displacement". While previous waves of technology mainly impacted blue-collar jobs, UNCTAD highlighted that knowledge-intensive sectors would be left most exposed by AI. This means advanced economies will surely be hardest-hit, it said, adding though that these economies were better positioned to harness the benefits of AI than developing economies. "The benefits of AI-driven automation often favour capital over labour, which could widen inequality and reduce the competitive advantage of low-cost labour in developing economies," UNCTAD said. In a statement, the agency chief Rebeca Grynspan underlined the importance of ensuring people are at the centre of AI development, urging stronger international cooperation to "shift the focus from technology to people, enabling countries to co-create a global artificial intelligence framework". "History has shown that while technological progress drives economic growth, it does not on its own ensure equitable income distribution or promote inclusive human development," she warned in the report. In 2023, so-called frontier technologies like the internet, blockchain, 5G, 3D printing and AI, represented a $2.5-trillion market, with that number expected to increase sixfold in the next decade to $16.4 trillion, the report said. And by 2033, AI will be the leading technology in this sector, with an expected value of $4.8 trillion, it showed. But UNCTAD cautioned that access to AI infrastructure and expertise remained concentrated in just a few economies, with only 100 firms, mainly in the US and China, currently accounting for 40 percent of global corporate research and development spending. "Countries should act now," the agency said, insisting that "by investing in digital infrastructure, building capabilities, and strengthening AI governance", they could "harness the AI potential for sustainable development". "AI is not just about replacing jobs," it said, insisting the technology could "also create new industries and empower workers". "Investing in reskilling, upskilling, and workforce adaptation is essential to ensure AI enhances employment opportunities rather than eliminating them." The UN agency stressed the need for all countries to take part in discussions around how to govern AI. "AI is shaping the world's economic future, yet 118 countries - mostly in the Global South - are absent from major AI governance discussions," it said. "As AI regulation and ethical frameworks take shape, developing nations must have a seat at the table to ensure AI serves global progress, not just the interests of a few." Gov. Ron DeSantis has stepped up his criticism of Randy Fine, Florida's newly elected congressman, following his narrow victory in a special election for the 6th district aimed at replacing former Rep. Mike Waltz. DeSantis slammed Fine as a "squish," a term used to describe someone lacking strong conservative principles following his 14-point win, the closest margin for a Republican in the district since 2018. The governor suggested that Fine's victory was only secured due to the late intervention of President Donald Trump, who rallied voters to support the candidate despite their dissatisfaction with him, as Fox News reports: "The president really had to bail him out at the end because this race would have been much closer had the president sat on the sidelines. I think these were voters who didn't like Randy Fine but who basically were like, 'You know what? We're going to take one for the team" Fine, on his end, pushed back, taking to social media to accuse DeSantis of focusing on personal politics rather than advancing the party's agenda. "A dying star burns hottest before it fades into oblivion," said Fine on X while sharing a video with DeSantis' comments. "I'm focused on working with President Donald Trump to stop Democrats from taking this country backwards, not working with them. Let's go." A dying star burns hottest before it fades into oblivion. Im focused on working with @realDonaldTrump to stop Democrats from taking this country backwards, not working with them. Lets go. https://t.co/zNoMxz91uu Congressman Randy Fine (@VoteRandyFine) April 2, 2025 DeSantis has had a tense relationship with Fine since 2023 as a result of Fine's public switch in support from DeSantis to Trump during the 2024 Republican presidential race, an endorsement that Fine defended in the wake of remarks from DeSantis on issues like antisemitism. DeSantis' remarks also reflect his broader dissatisfaction within the Florida GOP, especially regarding legislative actions and his strained relations with House Speaker Daniel Perez. On Monday, the governor accused Florida's Republican legislature of failing to push a more aggressive conservative agenda, particularly in the areas of immigration enforcement and Second Amendment rights. DeSantis also voiced concerns that the state's GOP supermajority is not effectively opposing Democrats, even as Fine's narrow win suggests fractures within the party: "To have a GOP supermajority, it isn't worth the paper it's printed on, unless they act like a GOP supermajority. What I see so far out of the Florida House of Representatives, they're not trying to step on the left's throat. They are giving a lifeline to the Democratic Party" Originally published on Latin Times A California man who has been described as having a grudge against pharmacies drove an hour to a Walgreens and allegedly killed an employee, according to police. Police say Narciso Gallardo Fernandez, 30, shot and killed 34-year-old Erick Velazquez, a Walgreens clerk, Fox 26 reported. Madera Police Chief Giachino Chiaramonte told the station that the motive for the apparent random shooting is under investigation. "We're having difficulties because some of the statements show that he had anger towards pharmacies in general, not specific Walgreens," Chiaramonte told the station. He added that Fernandez had no ties to Madera and did not know Velazquez. Police stated that callers described the suspect and that when police arrived, they found him in the parking lot. Police said that he surrendered to them. Fernandez is being held in the Madera County Jail on homicide charges. "He did communicate to some of the female victims that were out front and said, 'This isn't about you,' and stormed off to his car to where officers found him reloading his handgun," Chiaramonte told Fox 26. Originally published on Lawyer Herald An Ohio substitute teacher has been arrested after allegedly attempting to bribe a student to kill her husband, authorities say. 44-year-old Stephanie Demetrius reportedly approached a student on March 26 at the Academy for Urban Scholars High School in Columbus and offered them $2,000 to kill her husband, according to court records obtained by the Columbus Dispatch. She also allegedly gave $250 to the teen, who was not identified in the report, as a "down payment" for the murder for hire, according to Franklin County Municipal Court records. Law enforcement was able to obtain a recording of a phone call between Demetrius and the student she was attempting to hire. She discussed times during which her children would be away from home, which would allow the student to commit the murder. "When asked if the neighbors would hear the gunfire, she advised that they don't care about the neighbors," court records say. Demetrius, who has a history of mental health problems, had previously made homicidal threats against her estranged husband, who has obtained a protection order against her. The couple began divorce proceedings in 2017 but withdrew them. In July 2024, Demetrius' husband filed for emergency custody of their children, alleging violent behavior from Demetrius. He detailed previous instances of violent behavior from Demetrius, such as an instance where she used a pair of scissors to "stab" him, and another where she broke into his home, violating a stay-away order, and stole a laptop and some money. The filing also alleges that Demetrius had smashed property and garage doors on other occasions, started a fire in the basement and attempted to prevent internet access by removing the home's WiFi devices. "She has physically assaulted two of the children and Defendant Father," the filing says. "The minor children are in danger of harm as their mother's (sic) continues to return to the Marital Residence and break windows and doors to force herself in." Assistant Franklin County Prosecutor Parker Schwartz stated that Demetrius' behavior was "possessive and controlling" at Franklin County Municipal Court on Thursday. At the same hearing, a Franklin County Public Defender representing Demetrius stated that the allegations against Demetrius were fabricated and that she was looking forward to her day in court. Originally published on Latin Times Texas Sen. Ted Cruz turned on President Donald Trump on Thursday by denouncing his reciprocal tariffs. In a clip circulating on X, Cruz, who endorsed the president in 2024, calling him "a different Donald Trump," railed against the administration's new tariffs. "I'm not a fan of tariffs," Cruz stated, adding it can take months before the tariffs' effect are realized. "If the result of yesterday's announcement is a lot of our trading partners across the globe dramatically reduce the tariffs they charge on U.S. goods and services, and the consequence of that is the U.S. government dramatically cuts the tariffs that were announced yesterday, that would be a great outcome," Cruz explained. "That would be good for America." Cruz: Tariffs are a tax on consumers, and I'm not a fan of jacking up taxes on American consumers. pic.twitter.com/4H2A5kdHp7 Acyn (@Acyn) April 3, 2025 He then relayed a potential negative outcome. "If the result is our trading partners jack up their tariffs and we have high tariffs everywhere, I think that is a bad outcome for America," Cruz continued before conceding that consumers will end up paying more as a result. "My hope is these tariffs are short lived and they serve as leverage to lower tariffs across the globe," he added. On April 5, according to Trump's executive order signed Wednesday, a 10% tariff on all countries is set to go into effect. Additional individual reciprocal tariffs will then begin April 9. The Trump administration stated the tariffs are meant to "strengthen the international economic position of the United States and protect American workers." Originally published on Latin Times In a drastic move to curb increasing bear attacks, Slovakia has approved a plan to cull 350 brown bears following the latest fatal mauling of a man in the country's central region. Authorities discovered the body of a 59-year-old man on Sunday, with evidence suggesting he had been killed by a bear. The attack underscores a growing concern, as Environment Minister Tomas Taraba reported that bear-related incidents reached 1,900 last year. With Slovakia's brown bear population exceeding 1,000, Prime Minister Robert Fico defended the decision, stating, "We can't live in a country where people are afraid of going to forests." The government has also declared a state of emergency in 55 out of 72 counties, allowing the environment ministry to directly authorize the cull without additional bureaucratic hurdles. However, the move has sparked outrage from environmental organizations, which argue that the mass killing violates Slovakia's international conservation commitments. Critics suggest that the government should instead focus on preventive measures, such as better waste management and public awareness campaigns. This is not the first time Slovakia has resorted to bear culling. In 2024, the environment ministry sanctioned the killing of 144 bears. A similar measure was also implemented in Romania last year. As the cull moves forward, conservationists and government officials remain at odds over the best approach to managing Slovakia's growing brown bear population while ensuring public safety. Today marks a significant milestone as Mandarin Oriental officially assumes management of the legendary Hotel Lutetia, unveiling its new identity as Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris. As the only Palace hotel on the Left Bank, this celebrated landmark now joins Mandarin Oriental, further enhancing the Group's presence in the French capital with an exceptional hospitality experience on both sides of the Seine. The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental, and other members of the Group's senior leadership team, as well as the Akirov family as owners of the hotel and Jean Pierre Trevisan, Managing Director of Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris. With the addition of this landmark property, Mandarin Oriental strengthens its presence in Paris with a second hotel, complementing its renowned address on Rue Saint-Honore. This dual presence allows Mandarin Oriental to offer two distinctive, yet harmonious Palace experiences: an intimate, contemporary, ultra-chic retreat on the Right Bank and a vibrant, heritage-rich icon on the Left Bank. Honouring its commitment to authenticity and excellence, Mandarin Oriental embraces the soul of Lutetia, preserving its rich heritage while elevating the guest experience with its legendary service and expertise, shaped by its dual-Asian roots. The hotel remains a vibrant destination for both travellers and Parisians, offering an exceptional setting where culture, gastronomy and wellbeing converge. From the iconic Parisian Brasserie Lutetia to the serene Akasha Wellness space, from the lively Bar Josephine, to the many amazing suites, every element reflects a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary luxury. A Legendary hotel with a rich history Introducing Hotel Lutetia Founded in 1910 by the Boucicaut family, owners of Le Bon Marche, Hotel Lutetia has long been a symbol of Parisian elegance and culture. Designed with a harmonious blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, the hotel quickly became a hub for the city's intellectual and artistic elite. Over the years, it has hosted luminaries such as Picasso, Matisse, Charles de Gaulle and James Joyce, who famously completed Ulysses within its walls. During World War II, the hotel was requisitioned by the occupying forces, then, after the liberation, it served as a refuge for displaced individuals returning from the camps, adding to its rich historical significance. Contributions from modern cultural icons such as Sonia Rykiel, David Lynch, and Serge Gainsbourg have helped to cement Lutetia's status as a meeting place for creative minds and global leaders. As the only luxury Palace hotel on Paris's Left Bank, Hotel Lutetia underwent a comprehensive restoration led by renowned architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte and reopened in 2018. The renovation carefully preserved its storied heritage while introducing contemporary luxuries to enhance the guest stay. As part of Mandarin Oriental, this iconic property will further benefit from the Group's renowned DNA of legendary service, craftsmanship, culinary excellence and unsurpassed wellness, as well as a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences. Parisians and global travellers alike can appreciate its imposing style, which combines traditional elegance with modern amenities, ensuring the ultimate comfort. Hotel website The city's best address, The St. Regis Mumbai is delighted to announce the appointment of Murugan Sailappan as the new Executive Pastry Chef, boasting an illustrious career spanning across 19 years of exceptional expertise in the art of pastry and confectionery. Murugun is a highly skilled and innovative pastry chef, bringing with him a wealth of experience and an unmatched passion in the culinary arts. His strong ideals and gourmet traditions have served as milestones to his phenomenal success. Having started his journey as Demi Chef De Partie at Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Murugun has honed his craft at prestigious global brands such as Four Seasons, Conrad, Hyatt, Hilton, and Marriott. In his most recent role as the Executive Pastry Chef at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, Murugun not only led the creation of exceptional pastries and desserts, but also provided training to the assistant pastry chefs, kept track of the daily operations of the kitchen staff, prepared the budgets according to the supplies and sales, and maintained the inventory and cost control within the budgetary restrictions. Murugun's professional expertise is evident in his creations, which are distinguished by unusual textures and the meticulous incorporation of distinct flavours, all of which align seamlessly with The St. Regis Mumbai's ethos of excellence. The St. Regis Mumbai welcomes Murugun's extensive expertise and culinary skills, anticipating his valuable contributions to the esteemed establishment. Hampton Inn & Suites Maui North Shore, a forthcoming 136-room oceanfront retreat set to debut in May 2025, has appointed Serkan Hizliok as Area General Manager. With nearly two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Hizliok will lead the team in welcoming guests to this newly built hotel set along the shores of Kahului Bay. Hizliok's hospitality career began after earning his degree in Tourism Hospitality Management from Adnan Menderes University in Turkey. His international experience spans luxury resorts across Europe, including Susesi Deluxe Hotel and Spa, WOW Kremlin Palace, and Gloria Verde Resort in Antalya, Turkey. Over the years, Hizliok has held key leadership roles at prestigious hospitality brands such as Hilton, Waldorf Astoria, and Destination Residences by Hyatt, including operational management in Boston, Massachusetts, and throughout Hawaii. His expertise encompasses operations management, food and beverage, and guest experience, including his work at Grand Wailea - A Waldorf Astoria Resort and Destination Residences Hawaii, Maui. In addition to his role as area general manager at Hampton Inn & Suites Maui North Shore, Hizliok also oversees operations at another Springboard Hospitality property, Maui Seaside Hotel in Kahului, HI. Tasked with optimizing operations and enhancing guest experiences, these roles have deepened his expertise on the island and reinforced his dedication to exceptional service. Having managed properties across the Hawaiian Islands for 10 years, Hizliok has cultivated a deep respect for the local culture and is committed to offering authentic, memorable guest experiences at Maui North Shore's newest destination. For more information about Hampton Inn & Suites Maui North Shore, please visit the hotel's website. Sheraton Grand Palace Indore has announced the promotion of Ms. Seema Taj to the position of Director of Sales and Marketing. In her new role, she will lead strategic efforts to enhance brand presence in the market, drive business expansion, and foster key partnerships. Her leadership and vision will be instrumental in positioning Sheraton Grand Palace Indore as a premier choice for both business and leisure travellers. With an illustrious career spanning 23 years in the hospitality industry, she has consistently showcased strong leadership and market expertise. She began her career as an Airport Sales Executive and went on to head various departments, including Front Office and Banquet Management. Over the years, she has held key leadership roles with renowned hospitality brands, demonstrating her expertise and commitment to excellence. Seema joined Sheraton Grand Palace Indore in 2019 as Associate Director of Sales, where she played a key role in revenue optimization, operational support, and customer engagement strategies. She also ensured financial discipline, streamlined business operations, and identified growth opportunities, contributing to overall profitability through innovative marketing and sales initiatives. Beyond her professional achievements, Seema is passionate about travelling, cooking, and connecting with people from diverse cultures. She finds joy in exploring new and undiscovered destinations, always seeking fresh experiences and perspectives. Accor today announced the appointment of Vineet Mishra as Vice PresidentOperations, India and South Asia. With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Vineet will oversee Accor's operational strategies across its diverse portfolio reinforcing the brand's presence in the region. A seasoned hospitality veteran, Vineet brings a rich breadth of experience, along with an exceptional network in the industry. In his new position, he will resume an elevated leadership role, overseeing overall operations and driving business performance. His extensive experience with leading hospitality brands, strong business acumen, and meticulous operational strategies combined with his distinctive 'team first' leadership approachwill be key in delivering exceptional guest experiences and promoting dynamic business growth. Since joining Accor, Vineet has demonstrated strong leadership, most recently serving as Complex General Manager for Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, and later as Cluster General Manager of the Triguna portfolio in 2022, where he managed seven hotels. Vineet's professional journey includes senior roles at renowned hospitality brands like The Oberoi Hotels and Marriott International, where he developed expertise in strategic operations, hotel management, and elevating guest experiences. He holds a Post-Graduate Diploma in Hotel Management from The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development, New Delhi; a Diploma in Hospitality Management from IHM Mumbai; and a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from the University of Delhi. Vineet's leadership will be instrumental in improving business performance and service standards as Accor continues to expand its presence across India and South Asia. His expertise in fostering guest-centric experiences and visionary approach will reinforce the brand's position as a leading force in the region's evolving hospitality market. The hospitality sector sees a significant leadership transition as Reshu Tyagi assumes the role of Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing for The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi, and The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa. With a career spanning 18 years in luxury hospitality, Tyagi brings a proven track record in sales strategy, revenue optimization, and brand development to her new position. A Storied Career in Luxury Hospitality Tyagi's appointment follows her tenure as Director of Sales & Marketing at Raffles Udaipur, where she played a key role in establishing the property within the ultra-luxury segment. Prior to that, she served as Director - Leisure Sales (South Asia) for Marriott International, overseeing sales operations across India, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Her strategic initiatives in market expansion and high-value partnerships contributed to sustained revenue growth in the region. Her experience extends across several prestigious brands, including Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, Courtyard by Marriott Gurgaon, Crowne Plaza Today Gurgaon, The Imperial New Delhi, and Hyatt Hotels. A graduate of IHM Meerut, Tyagi has consistently demonstrated expertise in driving sales performance and enhancing brand positioning. Recognition and Industry Influence Tyagi has represented leading hotels at prominent global trade fairs, including ITB Berlin, ILTM Cannes, ILTM Singapore, and ATM Dubai, reinforcing her standing as an authority in luxury hospitality. Her contributions have earned her accolades, most notably the 'Most Admired Marketing Leader' award at the 10th World Marketing Congress and Awards. Beyond the Boardroom Outside her professional commitments, Tyagi is an avid traveler who values cultural exploration. She believes that exposure to diverse global perspectives enhances both personal growth and professional insight, a philosophy that informs her approach to leadership in hospitality. With Tyagi at the helm of sales and marketing, The Westin Gurgaon and The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa are poised to strengthen their market positioning while continuing to deliver elevated guest experiences. UN Tourism and the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation of Lithuania have agreed on a shared vision for tourism development in the country for the period 20252027. In addition to accelerating digital transformation, innovation and investments in the sector, the strengthened partnership will also focus on governance and destination management to ensure the continued growth of Lithuanian tourism. The collaborative plans were set out during an official visit to Vilnius by UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, as he met with Minister of the Economy and Innovation Lukas Savickas, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Julius Pranevicius, members of parliament, and key tourism stakeholders. Lithuania has demonstrated remarkable resilience and vision. The countrys leadership in innovation and inclusivity sets a strong example for the region and beyond. Our cooperation reflects the shared commitment to building a smarter, more sustainable, and more competitive tourism sector. Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili Driving Smart Tourism Development In Vilnius, UN Tourism and Lithuania agreed to deepen cooperation in several priority areas: Tourism promotion & destination marketing , including an influencer-driven event and masterclasses on digital tools , including an influencer-driven event and masterclasses on digital tools Education and workforce development, including through the Tourism Online Academy including through the Tourism Online Academy Startup Challenge Lithuania to encourage tech solutions in tourism to encourage tech solutions in tourism Support new governance models for destination management and enhancing rural tourism and enhancing rural tourism Investment Guidelines to position Lithuania as a prime destination for sustainable tourism investment Reinforcing Lithuania's Global Tourism Role The Secretary-General's visit included a high-level address to the Committee on Economics at the Lithuanian Parliament, where he commended Lithuania's post-pandemic recovery, leadership in digital innovation, and efforts to ensure inclusive rural development. He also acknowledged Lithuania's proactive participation in international dialogues, including its role in the UN Tourism Executive Council. Opening the Future Hospitality and Tourism Forum in the capital city, the Secretary-General also emphasized the importance of country's enhanced visibility on the global stage and identified opportunities to further integrate Lithuania into global tourism strategies, including UN Tourism's own work. About UN Tourism UN Tourism is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. An intergovernmental organization, UN Tourism has 160 Member States, 6 Associate Members, 2 Observers and over 500 Affiliate Members. The General Assembly is the supreme organ of the Organization. The Executive Council takes all measures, in consultation with the Secretary-General, for the implementation of the decisions and recommendations of the General Assembly and reports to the Assembly. UN Tourism headquarters are based in Madrid, Spain. The election for Secretary General will be in May 2025. Through their innovative concepts and strategic growth powered by Mews, this Swiss hotel brand is reimagining the hospitality experience for modern travelers. Source: Mews About Revier Hospitality Group Revier Hospitality Group is a Swiss hotel brand whose growing portfolio includes properties in Switzerland, Austria and Dubai, from vibrant city centers to picturesque mountain regions. They operate two main brands: Revier, a tech-driven concept focused on digital guest experiences and Priva, for premium hospitality with an emphasis on extended stays and retreat. Both brands required a modern, cloud-native PMS to deliver a seamless guest experience, leading them to choose Mews. We chose Mews because it was clearly emerging as a leader in the PMS market, and we wanted a partner that matched our own ambition. Benjamin Traffelet, Head of Innovation and Services Scaling effortlessly with a unified system Challenge Traditionally, data migration was a challenge, especially when transferring 1,000+ bookings into a new PMS. Staff could also take up to three weeks to fully adapt to the new system. Solution Mews streamlined the onboarding process, cutting setup time to just 2-3 days. When opening a new property, Revier Hospitality Group can effortlessly copy and paste information from existing hotels on Mews, making quick adjustments to rates and user access. They also developed customized workflows that scale with their growing business. Staff training is now faster thanks to Mews University, which allows them to learn and test new features in a risk-free environment, boosting confidence before going live. Result New properties can be set up very quickly Staff trained in days instead of weeks All of us appreciate how intuitive the Mews interface is. Its clean design, free of unnecessary buttons and fields, makes it easy to find what we need in just a few clicks. Benjamin Traffelet, Head of Innovation and Services Harnessing automation for effortless payments Challenge Manual processing of payments led to inefficiencies and increased chances of human error. Solution Mews Payments automated the workflow, enabling 95% of bookings to be processed without manual intervention. This automation removes the need for staff to double-check reservations or manually enter credit card information. As a result, staff can focus on being true hosts, sharing valuable information about the hotel and offering tips for a more enjoyable stay. The payment system functions so seamlessly across the group that they don't even have a finance department. Instead, one person oversees all properties, thanks to the cloud-native system that allows remote access from anywhere. Result 0.004% chargeback rate (travel industry average is 0.89%) Alternative payments like ApplePay accepted seamlessly Our goal is to get rid of recurring work, not staff. I prefer to have the same number of employees, but free up more of their time for guests - and that's exactly where Mews shines. Benjamin Traffelet, Head of Innovation and Services Transforming the guest journey through technology Challenge With no reception desks at any of the Revier hotels, the guest journey needed to be entirely digital, from booking the stay to ordering upsells. Solution Mews Guest Experience facilitates online check-in, triggering the creation of mobile keys or PIN codes for guest room access. This system eliminates check-in queues, allowing guests to head straight to their rooms upon arrival. While hotel chains with seven properties typically require a reservation department with up to 10 staff members, Revier Hospitality Group manages this with just two people, resulting in significant savings. They also offer upsells through the Mews Booking Engine, during online check-in, or via Mews Kiosk, enabling guests to easily add extras at any time and generating additional revenue for the hotel. Result 90% reduction in manual work related to upsells 76 average value added through Mews Booking Engine 67% of guests buy upsells through Mews Booking Engine 80% online check-in rate achieved across multiple systems Boosting revenue with creative space usage Challenge Revier Hospitality Group has a visionary approach to monetizing hotel spaces, including meeting rooms and a cinema. But is there a way to do this effortlessly? Solution The team uses Mews Spaces as a unified platform for tracking meeting room availability, enabling staff to quickly check the status of spaces without the hassle of switching between different software. In their newest hotel, Revier Mountain Lodge Saas-Fee, they also rent out a cinema. Some groups use it for Mario Kart parties, while others book it for meetings - showcasing a great example of how to give multiple purposes to one space and generate additional revenue. Result Simplified hotel space management Increased revenue through multi-purpose space utilization Integration spotlight Mews offers a plug-and-play approach, providing easy access to hospitality's best tools with zero integration fees. This flexible model allows Revier Hospitality Group to customize their operations according to the specific needs of each hotel. Plus, they can easily incorporate new functionalities as their business grows. hotelkit hotelkit is a housekeeping solution that offers a direct, two-way connection to Mews. Once a room is cleaned and the status is updated in hotelkit, this information is automatically reflected in Mews Operations, eliminating the need for calls to reception. Learn more Zapier Zapier is an online automation tool that connects over 1000 web apps. It enables automatic adjustments in Mews while providing Revier Hospitality Group the flexibility to automate any remaining manual tasks. Learn more About Mews Mews is the leading platform for the new era of hospitality. Powering over 12,500 customers across more than 85 countries, Mews Hospitality Cloud is designed to streamline operations for modern hoteliers, transform the guest experience and create more profitable businesses. Customers include BWH Hotels, Strawberry, The Social Hub and Airelles Collection. Mews was named Best PMS (2024, 2025) and listed among the Best Places to Work in Hotel Tech (2021, 2022, 2024, 2025) by Hotel Tech Report. Mews has raised $410 million from investors including Growth Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, Kinnevik and Tiger Global to transform hospitality. www.mews.com View source NEW DELHI - Deeping its commitment to India, Dusit International, one of Thailands leading hotel and property development companies, has announced plans to expand its presence in the country by launching its luxury and upper midscale brands in key emerging markets. With rising disposable incomes, increasing demand for premium stays, and enhanced connectivity reshaping Indias hospitality landscape, Dusit is focused on underserved yet high-potential markets nationwide. In addition to exploring opportunities in Indias Tier 1 cities, Dusit also aims to target Tier 2 and Tier 3 destinations where luxury and upscale hospitality options are currently limited creating opportunities to deliver curated, high-end experiences tailored to local demand. This strategic expansion builds on the momentum of Dusits recent foray into the Indian market with the opening of the contemporary, upscale dusitD2 Fagu, Shimla in December 2024, and the signings of three key properties in Karnataka: the wellness-focused Devarana Sakleshpur, Karnataka A Dusit Retreat (set to open in 2028), and two upcoming Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts. With a diverse brand portfolio spanning the ultra-luxury Devarana Dusit Retreats to upper midscale and midscale brands such as Dusit Princess and ASAI Hotels, Dusit plans to tap underserved locations where it can leverage its expertise in delivering Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to meet the needs of todays business and leisure travellers. Prioritising quality over quantity, the company is thoughtfully selecting locations that align with its ethos of premium, experience-driven hospitality offering a distinctive blend of holistic wellness, contemporary design, and exceptional service. As part of this vision, Dusit is preparing to launch six additional hotels across the country. The upper-midscale Dusit Princess brand will debut in Raipur (200 keys), Bhiwadi (165 keys), Kolkata (220 keys), and Lonavala (120 keys). Meanwhile, two boutique luxury properties under the recently introduced Dusit Collection brand in Kasol and Manali (each with 40 rooms) will offer refined escapes in the Himalayan foothills. India represents an exceptional growth opportunity for Dusit across major metros and particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where premium hospitality options remain limited despite strong demand. The countrys tourism industry is evolving rapidly, with increasing demand for high-quality, experience-driven stays. By blending our unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with wellness-led experiences and destination-driven properties, we aim to create exceptional stays that resonate deeply with Indian travellers. Through strategic partnerships with visionary local developers, we are committed to shaping Indias premium hospitality landscape for the long term. Mr Siradej Donavanik, Vice President Development (Global), Dusit International Beyond immediate expansion, Dusit is focused on building an integrated hospitality ecosystem in India, where luxury stays, holistic wellness, refined gastronomy, and hospitality education converge to deliver lasting value. At the heart of this vision is a deep commitment to sustainability driven by Dusits group-wide Tree of Life programme. Aligned with selected United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the programme features 31 measurable criteria designed to ensure a lasting and positive impact in every community Dusit serves. Through Dusit Hospitality Education, the company will also focus on local talent development, ensuring that Indian hospitality professionals are trained to uphold world-class service standards. Together, these initiatives underscore Dusits commitment to responsible hospitality and its vision for sustainable growth in the global hospitality industry. Dusits entry into the Indian market forms part of its broader expansion strategy targeting vibrant, high-growth markets such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, China, and India. With a bold plan to sign more than 100 hotels globally over the next five years, Dusit is poised to captivate travellers worldwide with its unique fusion of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality and thoughtfully integrated local traditions. About Dusit Hotels and Resorts Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand's leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group's portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide. For more information, please visit dusit.com. About Dusit International Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services. Dusit International's diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification. For more information, please visit dusit-international.com. Grand Metropolitan Hotels has announced the acquisition of the iconic luxury hotel collection brand Voile dOr Hotels and Resorts. In the strategic move, Grand Metropolitan Hotels gains the full Brand and IP rights, and all management contracts associated with the 100 year old luxury brand with future expansion plans in additional destinations already in place. Voile dOr Hotels and Resorts currently operates a collection of luxury flagship Hotels and Residences in six prime locations: London, Paris, New York, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, St. Barths, and Courchevel. Voile dOr captures the soul of French elegance, timeless luxury and a remarkable history with a clear focus on exclusivity, discretion and unforgettable experiences, offering sanctuaries of serenity in the worlds most extraordinary places. Under the evocative signature Forever. Desirable., the brand expresses its enduring appeal and rare desirability. The acquisition of this unique hospitality portfolio further underlines Grand Metropolitan Hotels commitment to offering its guests unrivalled luxury experiences around the globe. Voile dOr will become the pinnacle of our brand architecture, representing an ultra-luxury proposition rooted in elegance and heritag. We are proud to bring together a brand of this calibre and are actively preparing for expansion into the Maldives, Dubai, and Lisbon. Martin R. Smura, Founder and Chairman of Grand Metropolitan Hotels Historical legacy: Reopening of Hotel La Voile dOr in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat planned for 2029 An extensive reopening of Hotel La Voile dOr in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is scheduled for 2029 with an offering that will meet the highest standards of international luxury hospitality. As part of the purchase, Grand Metropolitan Hotels owns not only the brand but also the long-term management contract and the development management function for this iconic landmark property. Voile dOr brand traces its origins back to the legendary Hotel La Voile dOr in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat in the French Riviera, which first opened its doors in 1925. Situated in a prime location on the Cote dAzur, right by the shore with a private beach, the property was for decades the go-to destination for the rich, the famous, and internationally acclaimed personalities. One of its most famous regular guests was Sir Winston Churchill, whose statue stands at the hotels entrance a tribute to his close connection to the property, where he was always welcomed with his beloved champagne and cigars. Strengthening the leadership team of the Voile dOr luxury hotel collection with industry experts Grand Metropolitan Hotels is proud to announce Jacques Oudinot as Chief Executive Officer of Voile dOr Hotels and Resorts. With a wealth of experience in luxury hospitality, Oudinot previously held senior leadership roles with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. Voile dOr represents more than hospitalityit is the art of crafting unforgettable moments, says Oudinot. We are honored to shape the next era of this extraordinary brand. Additionally, Edouard Deschepper has been appointed as Board Director. With his expertise in corporate finance, he is expected to play a key role in further developing the brand. Grand Metropolitan Hotels is one of the leading hotel operators, specializing in providing tailor-made solutions in branding, hotel management, franchise, and affiliation services, all carefully designed to meet the individual needs of hotel owners and investors. The purchase price remains undisclosed. About Grand Metropolitan Hotels Grand Metropolitan Hotels is one of the leading hotel operators, specializing in providing tailor-made solutions in branding, hotel management, franchise, and affiliation services, all carefully designed to meet the individual needs of hotel owners and investors. The company's portfolio includes renowned brands such as Grand Metropolitan Hotels Collection, Castlewood Hotels and Resorts, Swiss Hospitality Collection, African Heritage Hotel Collection, African Hotel Alliance, 7Pines Hotels & Resorts, Brioni Luxury Hotels, Voile d'Or Hotels & Resorts, Martinez Hotels and Resorts, as well as TOP INTERNATIONAL Hotels and numerous F&B brands. An international team of seasoned hoteliers, with extensive expertise across all areas of the hospitality industry and offices at six strategic locations worldwide, offers hotel owners and investors comprehensive support and services. Sustainability and advanced digitalization are central pillars of the company's philosophy. Generation Z is making headlines as it replaces millennials as the youngest generation in the workforce and introduces its own perspectives and approaches to work life. According to the United States Department of Labor, Gen Z accounts for almost one-fifth (18%) of the labor force, surpassing baby boomers. That number is expected to grow as more individuals from this generation graduate from college and enter the workforce. With every new generation, theres a learning curve for the generations that came before. Generation Z has already made its mark with its expectations for work-life balance, company culture and more. Still, perhaps the greatest challenge for employers with Gen Z talent is the turnover rate. Studies have found that approximately 65% of Gen Z employees leave their jobs within the first year of employment. Its a staggering statistic, but Gen Z retention can be improved with the right policies and programs in place. My goal with this article is to lay out small but effective changes you can make at your company to improve the retention of your Gen Z talent. It all boils down to understanding your Gen Z counterparts and developing an open narrative with them. Its a Balancing Act At the top of Gen Z employees priorities in the workplace is their commitment to a healthy work-life balance. According to HR Brew , 32% of Gen Z employees rank work-life balance as the most crucial aspect of a job. Its the main topic that separates them from millennials and Gen X, who prioritize compensation and benefits. So, how do you create a space that rewards and prioritizes work-life balance? It starts with a flexible foundation. Identify roles within your company that may not need to be 100% in-person and offer hybrid or remote work for those positions. Giving employees more flexibility in their work schedule not only shows them they are trusted to get the job done but also encourages them to prioritize work-life balance in their day-to-day lives. Employees have more time for self-care when working from home. They can take breaks to exercise, prepare healthy meals or run minor errands. In fact, according to a study by Buffer, 53% of remote workers reported a better work-life balance. Another way to foster an environment prioritizing work-life balance is by offering more comprehensive PTO packages. The standard two-week paid time off is no longer sustainable, as Gen Z is particularly more interested in travel than previous generations. Gen Zers often prefer to spend money on experiences rather than luxury goods, a trend also seen among millennials. This evidence suggests that a more comprehensive PTO package with more days than the standard two weeks would go a long way with Gen Z employees. Companies will find that employees return to work from vacations renewed and energized. Company Culture One of the biggest differences that separate one employer from another for Gen Z talent is the company culture. Team building can significantly improve Gen Z retention. However, team-building activities should not be mandatory. Instead, encourage participation by ensuring every team member is covered and can leave their desk to participate. Team building humanizes team members among each other. It allows them to separate the work from the person and see their colleagues in a new light. Building bonds within the workplace reduces the likelihood of quick turnover. When Gen Z has trusted colleagues and friends in the workplace, they are more likely to stay longer, as it adds another perk to their employment situation. Another way to improve company culture is to introduce an open-door policy. Creating an open dialogue with employees, especially Gen Z employees, allows them to share any thoughts, struggles or grievances they have. Its always better to find out what is making an employee uncomfortable or unhappy at their job as it is happening rather than when theyre putting in their two weeks notice. An open-door policy gives companies the opportunity to evaluate employees frustrations in real time and course-correct or offer solutions before the employee decides to look elsewhere. Career Progression Many companies do not invest in their current employees by offering training programs, resources and mentorship programs. Often, Gen Z employees leave their current workplace to progress in their careers, whether its a title change upward or a salary increase (or both). By offering Gen Z employees the resources and tools needed to grow in their specific field, it makes it easier for them to climb the ladder of success and develop professionally in their roles. Mentorship programs also offer another layer of help to employees looking to grow and learn more in their fields. This helps them connect with individuals in their field and learn how they got to where they are today. Mentors can also provide a safe space for employees who may not feel comfortable confiding in their managers or direct team members. Mentors can offer proper guidance and constructive feedback without the underlying pressure from their boss or direct supervisor. All these tools can be helpful, but the most important part of career progression is ensuring you consider your current talent for promotions rather than seeking new talent to fill roles. When you promote from within, you reduce the likelihood of high turnover. Investing in the talent already available and giving them opportunities to grow offers a positive outlook and shows them that theres longevity at your company. When employees can see a bright and rewarding future at a company, they feel more inclined to stay. If theres no way to grow upward, they are more likely to seek other opportunities. Speak the Language of Tech Gen Zers are even more tech-savvy than their millennial counterparts. If your systems and processes are outdated and not tech-forward, it could drive away some of your most promising employees. With platforms like Beekeeper, you can make onboarding new employees easier, engage directly with teams and employees across the entire company, and celebrate the successes of individuals and teams. If your company is spread out with employees in different cities, locations, branches, etc., using a tool like Beekeeper helps create a sense of community among employees and welcomes interactions across teams who may not otherwise collaborate in their typical day-to-day activities. Recognition and Praise Yearly reviews are great and effective ways to analyze employee performance and gauge where promotions are necessary. However, they should not be the only touch point that leadership has with its Gen Z employees, let alone the rest of the talent in your organization. When an employee has to wait a whole year to receive any constructive feedback on their work, it stalls their growth. In that time, they couldve been tackling areas where growth is needed. Its important to offer Gen Z employees additional touch points prior to their annual reviews. These can be weekly, biweekly, monthly or quarterly; it ultimately depends on what works best for your company. However, multiple touch points give employees opportunities to grow, provide feedback and request the proper resources they need to succeed in their current roles. It also sends a message to them that you care about their development and want them to succeed and grow at your company. Providing various touch points also gives employers the opportunity to celebrate employees successes. Recognition in the workplace is essential to creating a positive company culture and improving employee satisfaction. Work can sometimes feel thankless, especially in the hospitality industry, where employees must cater to many different personalities and individuals. A little recognition for a job well done can go a long way. It Goes Beyond the Office Weve already touched upon ways to build trust, like creating an open-door policy, offering flexible work-from-home schedules, and introducing a trusted mentorship program. One final tool to build trust among your Gen Z employees is to introduce an employee assistance program. These programs are great for helping with personal and/or work-related issues. Whether its financial services, family and marital issues, stress management or even mental health counseling, knowing that their employer cares about their lives even outside of work contributes significantly to the wellness aspect Gen Z seeks from employers. In turn, when employees are less stressed in their personal lives, they are more likely to perform better at work. Its a win-win situation for both parties. The More You Know It can definitely be challenging to get to know a whole new demographic of employees. Gen Zers may be different, but theyre not difficult. Youll find that your Gen Z employees are some of your most driven and promising employees. Nurture their growth, recognize their wins, reward their hard work, and, most of all, communicate! Ultimately, they seek employers that offer a healthy work environment with a strong work-life balance. To retain these employees, build a level of understanding, create an open dialogue and ensure they know they can grow right where they are. Small changes can make a huge impact on the satisfaction of employees and the likelihood of them sticking around for the long run. The first step is wanting to retain your talent. Youre already headed in the right direction. Reprinted from the Hotel Business Review with permission from www.HotelExecutive.com. View source Introduction I didnt know you could own a hotel is a common response to the idea of hotel ownership. For many, it seems like an unattainable goal, reserved for the lucky or well-connected. Yet, for those willing to navigate the industry or carve their own path, hotel ownership is not only possible but can also serve as a powerful means of generating wealth and uplifting communities. My own journey began with my love for hospitality and my mothers encouragement to dream bigger, go further. Through education, industry connections, and my current role as a consultant at CBRE Hotels, Ive come to see hotel ownership as a practical goalone I now help my clients achieve. However, for many minorities, particularly Black and Latino communities, the road to hotel ownership can feel distant. These communities have long been defined by their ingenuity, creativity, passion, and hospitalitytraits that align perfectly with hotel ownership. Yet, the reality is that Black and Latino representation on the ownership level remains disproportionately low. While there is a rich history of minority hotel ownership, barriers such as access to capital and lack of awareness continue to limit participation. A Historical Legacy of Hospitality Black hotel ownership has deep historical roots. As Omari Head, director at Paramount Lodging Advisors, noted, "Traditionally, this is a space that we have dominated." During the Reconstruction era and segregation, lodging options for Black travelers were limited, leading to the creation of safe havens like those listed in The Green Book. Published in 1936 by Victor Hugo Green, The Green Book guided African American travelers to businesses that welcomed them. These hotels and accommodations were more than just places to staythey symbolized community, resilience, and entrepreneurship. Key figures like George Thomas Downing, James Wormley, Maggie Lena Walker, Robert Reed Church, and Arthur G. Gaston laid the foundation for Black hotel ownership during this period. Traditionally, this is a space that we have dominated. Omari Head, Director at Paramount Lodging Advisors Latino hotel ownership also boasts a rich history dating back to the 1800s. Trailblazers like Pio Pico, the last governor of Mexican California, established iconic properties such as the luxurious Pico House in Los Angeles. These hotels were cultural hubs, offering spaces of safety and solidarity in a society that often marginalized Latino individuals. The Current Landscape Today, Black and Latino hotel ownership represents a small fraction of the industry. Black individuals own less than 2% of hotels in the U.S., while Hispanic-Latino ownership accounts for 9.1% of accommodation firms, according to the 2023 Latino Hotel Association Entrepreneurship Investment Report. This lack of representation is striking given the economic power of these communities. Black U.S. travelers spend over $100 billion annually on travel and hospitality, while the Latino community spends $113.9 billion on domestic leisure travel. These figures highlight not only the importance of representation in ownership but also the potential to cater to the preferences and needs of these travelers. Hotels are responsible for 1 in 25 jobs in the U.S., giving Black and Latino owners a unique opportunity to create jobs within their own communities. While the challenges are significant, the potential impact of increasing minority ownership is immense. Overcoming Barriers: Education and Awareness One of the biggest obstacles to Black and Latino hotel ownership is a lack of awareness that this is a viable path. Many individuals from these communities work in hotels in roles such as cleaning, maintenance, or even management, but rarely in ownership positions. Lynette Montoya, President of the Latino Hotel Association (LHA), says it takes true ganas, or desire to pursue hotel ownership. With the right mindset and tools, it is highly achievable. Education is critical. Even high-net-worth individuals often lack the knowledge needed to invest in hotels. The equity is out there, but it is not educated on hotel ownership, says Head. He and Montoya are dedicated to educating minorities about hotel ownership through resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Kendra Plummer and Amina Gilyard-James are two examples of individuals who have broken into hotel ownership by prioritizing education. Plummer, founder of Elise Capital, initially believed that being a general manager equated to ownership. Through her studies in hotel management school, she learned about the complexities of operations, deal structuring, and investment strategies. Today, her firm manages a portfolio of three hotels, with a mission to unlock generational wealth for underrepresented communities. The equity is out there, but it is not educated on hotel ownership. Omari Head, Director at Paramount Lodging Advisors Gilyard-James and her husband, Norland James, took a different route, investing as limited partners in minority-led hotel deals. Despite challenges with their first investment, they persevered, learning from setbacks and eventually becoming general partners in two hotels. Their journey underscores the importance of persistence, networking, and embracing community support. Organizations like the LHA, the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators, and Developers (NABHOOD), and Hospitality Hued play a vital role in providing education, resources, and connections for aspiring hoteliers. Collective Economics Another key to success in hotel ownership is collective economics. As Plummer explains, Hotels are one of the best examples of collective economics. It takes a group to get a project done instead of resting on just one persons shoulders. Many minority hotel owners start by raising capital within their communities. Friends, family, and local investors become early stakeholders, creating opportunities for shared economic growth. Plummer says Elise Capitals investors are 80% minorities, whether that be through gender, race, or age. Minority led hotel deals open the door for new minority investors. By pooling resources and working collaboratively, Black and Latino communities can overcome financial challenges and create avenues for generational wealth. Building a Future in Hotel Ownership For aspiring hoteliers, building a strong community and network is essential. Hospitality is not a solitary journeyit thrives on collaboration and shared knowledge. Gilyard-James emphasizes the importance of giving back, frequently engaging with local communities and speaking at HBCUs to inspire the next generation of owners. The hotel industry is constantly evolving, and staying attuned to trends is critical. From extended-stay products to technological advancements, the ability to adapt is key. Many people are trying to skip steps , says Head. Please do not skip the steps. Talk to professionals, hire them, and listen to what they say. An Expansive Possibility Hotel ownership represents an expansive possibility for Black and Latino communities, one that can drive economic development and create lasting legacies. Leaders like Gilyard-James, Plummer, Head, and Montoya are passionate about spreading the word that ownership is attainable. There are plenty of hotels to go around, Gilyard-James remarks. This is not a me versus you industry. Access to capital remains a major challenge, but initiatives like crowdfunding, joint ventures, and partnerships with investment firms are helping to bridge the gap. The future of the hotel industry is bright, with opportunities for innovation, inclusivity, and economic empowerment. There are plenty of hotels to go around, this is not a me versus you industry. Amina Gilyard-James, Duke Ventures LLC As Omari Head says, Im excited for the day when going to the grand opening of my daughters hotel is no longer seen as a unicorn moment. Together, Black and Latino hoteliers are paving the way for a more diverse and equitable hospitality landscape. So yes, hotel ownership is possible. With a rich history to lean on and a growing community of trailblazers, the opportunity is ripe for those willing to take the leap. The next chapter of minority hotel ownership is one of resilience, collaboration, and boundless potential. Spotlight: Brand Minority Programs Championing Diversity in Hotel Ownership John Lancaster, Vice President of Strategic Programs at Choice Hotels International, describes hospitality as an industry where somebody looks out for you and takes care of you, often going out of their way to do so. This spirit of care and community is the foundation of programs developed by Choice Hotels International and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to support Black and Latino hotel ownership. Amit Sripathi, Wyndhams Chief Development Officer, adds, What I love about the industry is that hospitality brings people together, through all of our similarities and differences. Traveling is all about exploring new places and experiencing new cultures . For these brands, its not just about hotel ownershipits about empowering people to lead, inspire, and make a difference. Wyndhams Initiatives Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has launched several programs to create equitable opportunities for underrepresented groups: BOLD (Black Owners and Lodging Developers) Women Own the Room These initiatives have already resulted in over 100 hotel deals with Black and women hoteliers, with more than 20 properties now open. By addressing barriers to entry, these programs help aspiring owners who may have never considered hospitality or who face persistent roadblocks realize their ownership dreams. Wyndham also emphasizes long-term success through initiatives like the Accelerator Circle, connecting franchisees with seasoned owners and industry experts. In an exclusive partnership with Lafayette Square, Wyndham helps qualified owners access financing, with a total goal of $100 million in capital. As Wyndham notes, Access to capital is one of the most critical issues for any owner, and especially for diverse owners. Choice Hotels SOAR Program For over 21 years, Choice Hotels International has been committed to supporting diversity in hotel ownership. Through its SOAR Program (Supporting Ownership Access and Representation), Choice provides specialized resources for the Latino community, Black community, veterans, Native American or First Nation markets, and women. Choice also offers: Personalized guidance for aspiring and current owners navigating franchising and ownership. for aspiring and current owners navigating franchising and ownership. Opening service coordinators to assist with launching and managing properties. In 2024 alone, Choice Hotels achieved a record number of hotel openings within the SOAR program, underscoring its commitment to fostering sustainable growth for minority owners. A Focus on Sustainability Both Wyndham and Choice prioritize long-term, sustainable success. Their programs are designed not only to help owners enter the industry but to thrive within it, creating opportunities for generational wealth and economic empowerment. Brylynn Swayzer Consultant, CBRE Hotels Advisory CBRE Hotels View source Four Points Flex by Sheraton Istanbul Taksim Square - Image Credit Marriott International Marriott International plans to double the portfolio of its midscale brand, Four Points Flex by Sheraton, in Europe by 2026. Since its launch in 2023, the brand has already established a strong presence in the EMEA region, with 25 operating hotels and over 2,700 rooms. Marriott International has revealed plans to double the portfolio of its midscale brand, Four Points Flex by Sheraton, across Europe by the end of 2026. This announcement underscores the growing demand for value-driven accommodations. Currently, Four Points Flex by Sheraton is Marriott's fastest-growing brand in Europe, with plans to open over 50 properties in the region within the next two years. Launched in September 2023 in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), Four Points Flex by Sheraton caters to travelers seeking quality service without a hefty price tag. The brand has rapidly expanded its portfolio, with 25 operating hotels and over 2,700 rooms across Denmark, Turkey, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Germany, along with other international locations. According to Satya Anand, President of EMEA at Marriott International, the brand's success is a testament to the increasing consumer demand for affordable yet reliable accommodations. Four Points Flex by Sheraton has been designed to meet the needs of midscale travelers and offers hotel owners a cost-effective conversion opportunity, with access to Marriott's established distribution systems and loyalty program. The Four Points Flex by Sheraton brand emphasizes reliability, simplicity, and value, offering a smooth hotel experience at convenient locations. The brand provides guests with clean, comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi. Additionally, each hotel features unique design elements that lend character and a local aesthetic. The brand debuted in January 2024 with the opening of Four Points Flex by Sheraton Bursa Nilufer in Turkey. Since then, it has expanded within Turkey and the United Kingdom and has opened 14 properties in Denmark under an agreement with Core Hospitality. The brand has also recently entered Italy and Germany. Marriott has signed several new agreements, bolstering the brand's presence in the UK and Germany. One agreement with Resident Hotels will convert four UK hotels into Four Points Flex by Sheraton properties, and another with Chocolate on the Pillow will convert six German properties. By the end of 2026, the brand aims to debut in Austria and France, expand in Germany and Italy, and continue growth in the UK and Turkey. The brand is also expanding in Asia Pacific, excluding China, after a deal with KKR to convert 14 properties in Japan. Hotel Eastin located in Kremmling, Colorado - Image Credit Hotel Brokers International Rodeway Inn Buffalo in Buffalo, Wyoming - Image Credit Hotel Brokers International Prime Investment Properties is pleased to announce two new hotel investment opportunities under $5MM. With a focus on investment opportunities across the hotel and hospitality sector, Prime Investment Properties caters to a wide array of clients, from small-scale operations to institutionally owned assets. "We understand the varied needs of our clients in the hospitality industry, and we pride ourselves on offering properties that cater to all levels of investment," said Dan Emert, Principal Broker at Prime Investment Properties. "From boutique hotels with historic charm to stabilized, luxury resort accommodations both within and outside of the United States, we are committed to crafting deals and sourcing buyers for all of our clients." Stay tuned for an upcoming investment opportunity in the mountains of Colorados ski areas. Recent offerings this week from Prime Investment Properties include: Rodeway Inn Buffalo in Buffalo, Wyoming, is a 27-room property with a 9.75% cap rate and strong regional demand, ideal for investors seeking a reliable, budget-friendly hotel option. Positioned midway between Yellowstone National Park and Mount Rushmore off I-25 and I-90 the motel provides an ideal location. in Buffalo, Wyoming, is a 27-room property with a 9.75% cap rate and strong regional demand, ideal for investors seeking a reliable, budget-friendly hotel option. Positioned midway between Yellowstone National Park and Mount Rushmore off I-25 and I-90 the motel provides an ideal location. Hotel Eastin located in Kremmling, Colorado, known as the Sportsmans Paradise, a historic boutique hotel with 28 rooms, 3 apartments, and 2 commercial spaces- The hotel serves both as a year-round hotel and long-term boarding option for residents, with the potential for conversion into short-term rentals or expanded workforce housing. About Prime Investment Properties LLC Prime Investment Properties LLC is a premier hospitality brokerage and advisory firm specializing in the sale of lodging properties across the U.S. and international markets. As a member of Hotel Brokers International, the firm utilizes strategic marketing, extensive industry knowledge, and a wide network of partnerships to provide exceptional value and tailored solutions for its clients. With a strong presence in both digital and traditional marketing, Prime Investment Properties guarantees ample exposure for its listings. The firm specializes in the acquisition and disposition of hospitality assets, representing a diverse range of clients and properties, including full-service hotels, boutique hotels, select-service hotels, limited-service hotels, development projects, resorts, and beach destination hotels in Central, South, North America and beyond. For more information, visit www.primeinvestmentprops.com. About Hotel Brokers International Hotel Brokers International (HBI), founded in 1959, is the hospitality real estate industrys most established network of professional brokers, with over 11,000 successful hotel transactions. HBIs website features an extensive selection of hotels for sale, attracting global investors and industry professionals. HBI is the founder and administrator of the Certified Hotel Broker (CHB) Program, the only professional designation recognizing expertise in hotel brokerage. The organization also provides affiliate memberships to professionals in related fields such as franchising, lending, appraisals, and investment services, fostering a comprehensive network of hospitality specialists. Visit www.hbihotels.com. For more information about this listing or to inquire about acquisition opportunities, please contact: Dan Emert, Hotel Broker Prime Investment Properties LLC Steamboat Springs, CO 970.819.4948 Dan@primeinvestmentprops.com www.primeinvestmentprops.com Moldova plays an important role in the Southern Gas Corridor initiative and is the first country to commercially utilize the Greece-Bulgaria Gas Interconnector, said Dorin Junghietu, Energy Minister of Moldova, as he addressed the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting. Noting that natural gas will remain an essential part of Moldova's energy structure, the Moldovan Energy Minister added: This will expand our renewable energy opportunities. Therefore, we would like the vertical corridor to develop, as it is a key project for Moldova's energy future. In general, the continuous diversification of supply sources, including imports from Azerbaijan, will allow us to meet our energy demands. Moldova is fully committed to the Southern Gas Corridor, as well as the common interests such as energy security, sustainability, and market integration. Together, we can overcome challenges, create new opportunities, and ensure a safer, more prosperous energy future for all. - Image Credit HVS The development project is poised to leverage the strong reputation of the Home2 Suites by Hilton brand, which is sought after by both private and institutional investors. The brand's resilience in economic downturns and fast growth in the industry further enhance the project's appeal. The proposed hotel will cater to the extended-stay segment with an all-suite design that promotes guest independence, resulting in lower housekeeping costs and higher profits. It will also benefit from the Hilton Performance Advantage, a system of innovative solutions and advanced technologies that drive profit and efficiency, making it a valuable resource for owners and operators. The project will also leverage the Hilton Honors guest loyalty program, with its 190 million members accounting for more than 50% of all room nights globally for Hilton-branded hotels. The lack of newer, premium-branded, extended-stay hotels in the local submarket and strong market fundamentals make this a compelling investment opportunity. The property's strategic location near Interstate 35 (I-35), north of Loop 340, brings it close to several commercial demand generators, including Mars Wrigley, L3Harris Technologies, TYMCO, Neighborly Brands, Texas State Technical College, Waco Regional Airport, Cargill, and Waco Convention Center. Leisure attractions in the vicinity and various dining options add to its appeal. The Waco market has seen rapid expansion, with 37 major investment announcements in the last four years resulting in over $3.3 billion in new capital investments across the greater Waco MSA. This economic growth, accompanied by Texas State Technical College's $72-million campus expansion and Baylor University's presence, bodes well for the proposed development. Once developed, the hotel will be superior to its competitors in terms of quality and guestroom product, given the in-room kitchenettes. Based on HVS pro-forma projections, stabilized room revenue is anticipated to exceed $3.9 million, with a net operating income (NOI) flow-through of over $1,495,000, resulting in a RevPAR of over $107. Inquire at HVS. Candlewood Suites in Texarkana - Image Credit CBRE CBRE Hotels has listed the Candlewood Suites, an 80-room property in Texarkana, Texas, for sale. The hotel is located near regional points of interest and diverse demand drivers, presenting a lucrative investment opportunity. CBRE Hotels has announced that the Candlewood Suites, located at 2901 S Cowhorn Creek Loop in Texarkana, Texas, is now listed for sale. The property, an institutional-owned, 80-room facility, is conveniently situated off Interstate 30. This offers potential buyers and future guests easy access to key locations such as the Texarkana Regional Airport, Texas A&M University, Christus St. Michael Health, and Wadley Regional Medical Center. The Candlewood Suites is also near several corporate and leisure demand generators in the area, including the Four States Fairgrounds and Rodeo, Cooper Tire and Rubber Company, Red River Army Depot, Domtar, and the Graphic Packaging and International Paper plants. Its proximity to these key demand drivers, along with several universities and hospitals, enhances its appeal to a wide range of guests, from business travelers to leisure seekers. Moreover, Candlewood Suites is set up for a potential rebranding opportunity. The current franchise agreement with IHG expires in July 2025. Although IHG has expressed interest in re-licensing the hotel after the completion of the change of ownership PIP, the new owners will have the option to rebrand the hotel if they choose to do so. The hotel will also be delivered unencumbered by management. This aspect creates a significant upside for a more hands-on operator. With a more focused approach to revenue management strategies and a reduction in corporate allocated expenses, new management could significantly increase the hotel's profitability. Texarkana is a vital economic and cultural center at the crossroads of Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana. The citys rich history and cultural offerings, such as the Discovery Place Museum and the Four States Fair & Rodeo, draw tourists throughout the year. Add to that the presence of major corporations like Cooper Tire and Rubber Company, Domtar, and International Paper, and it's clear that a constant influx of business travelers is assured. This unique blend of historical charm, cultural events, and economic activity provides a thriving environment for the hospitality industry and makes the Candlewood Suites a particularly attractive investment opportunity. Overall, the Candlewood Suites' strategic location, potential for rebranding and management optimization, and proximity to diverse demand drivers make it an appealing option for potential investors. Texarkana's thriving economic and cultural scene further adds to the property's appeal, promising a steady influx of guests and potentially high returns on investment. Inquire at CBRE Hotels. Image Credit Tourism Economics Major airlines have recently lowered their earnings projections due to economic shifts and concerns about trade policies. This, combined with a significant drop in consumer confidence, suggests potential challenges for the travel industry, prompting questions about the impact on online travel giants. Several major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines, have recently revised their earnings forecasts downwards due to global economic fluctuations and trade policy tensions. This, coupled with a significant drop in consumer confidence, paints a potentially challenging picture for the travel industry and raises questions about the potential impact on online travel giants. According to Stephanie Guichard, a senior economist at The Conference Board, this drop in consumer confidence was the most significant since August 2021. The United States Federal Reserve has also noted an increase in economic uncertainty. These developments have led to concerns about the potential significant impact on the travel industry. A report by Tourism Economics considered the potential impact of expanding trade wars, assuming substantial tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China by the U.S. administration. The report also considered a loss in European travel sentiment due to tariffs and apprehension around the handling of Russia in Ukraine. The report suggests a potential decline in U.S. inbound visits by 5.1% and hotel room demand by 0.8% compared to the projected 8.8% and 1.1% growth in the baseline scenario, respectively. Furthermore, the report estimates U.S. inbound travel spending to be 10.9% below the baseline outlook, indicating an estimated loss of $18 billion in 2025. Combined domestic and inbound U.S. travel spending is expected to be 3.7% below baseline, marking an estimated $64 billion loss in spending in the same year. The report's findings come at a time when several countries, including the United Kingdom, Denmark, Finland, Germany, and Canada, have issued travel warnings to their citizens about traveling to the U.S. due to instances of European travelers being detained at U.S. borders. The current travel industry environment is causing concern, according to Tom Fitzgerald, Vice President of TD Cowen, who leads coverage of airlines. He suggests that the decline in sentiment could cause consumers to scale back discretionary spending and businesses to hold back on investment. Notwithstanding these factors, Jake Fuller of financial services firm BTIG, notes in a recent report that while airline warnings have elevated concerns, it is not definitive that online travel agencies (OTAs) are in trouble given the current economic state. OTAs like Expedia Group, which has a more significant U.S. presence, might face more risk than companies like Airbnb and Booking Holdings with a broader global presence. It is not clear whether the current economic downturn is an indicator of a long-term trend. However, a generally healthy economy and Americans' propensity to prioritize trips and experiences could offset potential negative trends like a lack of consumer confidence. Despite the current economic pressures, potential positive factors could include an easing of trade tensions, better-than-anticipated macro data, positive guidance from airlines on Q1 earnings calls, and indications that discretionary spending is not falling. It will take several months to see the impact of tariffs on prices and consumer pocketbooks. If the stock market recovers and prices stabilize, consumers may regain confidence in spending. Discover more at PhocusWire. Trump's Tariffs: A Tidal Wave Hitting the Global Travel Industry - Image Credit Unsplash+ The Trump administration's newly announced tariffs are set to significantly impact the global travel industry. Asian countries, many of which have been categorized as 'worst offenders,' are expected to be heavily affected. As the world braces itself for the ripple effects of the recently announced Trump tariffs, the travel industry is poised to face its share of challenges. The tariffs, which the BBC has described as "truly remarkable", are set to hit all travel sectors, from leisure to corporate, conferences, and exhibitions, particularly in Asia. Countries in Asia, apart from Singapore, which faces a base rate of 10%, have been slapped with tariffs ranging from 17% to 54%. With the tariffs expected to disrupt the business models of countless companies and factories, there is no question that these changes to global trade, the most significant in a century, will reverberate across industries, including travel. Timothy ONeil-Dunne, principal of T2Impact, a Seattle-based travel tech consultancy, labelled the tariffs as a 'devastating blow' to the world economy and anticipated a 'double whammy' effect on the travel industry. Factors such as decreased disposable income, fear impacting travel to and from the USA, and possible retaliation and restrictions by border controls are expected to influence the industry. Mike McGearty, co-founder of car rental technology specialist Meili, highlighted the negative impact of increased costs on operators within the industry, which could lead to inflated prices, dampened demand, and decreased consumer confidence. The short-term impact, according to Chris Hemmeter, managing director of travel investment company Thayer Ventures, includes a negative response to the United States brand and a strong dollar affecting inbound U.S. travel. Outbound U.S. travel could be moderately neutral due to the recession risk and strong dollar offering cheaper alternatives. The global impact is generally negative, with spending predicted to decrease. However, the impact could be neutral for the Asia Pacific region due to economic pressure and a shift away from U.S. travel, offering increased regional options for China travelers. Retaliatory measures from affected countries are a significant concern. Nicholas Cocks, partner at Velocity Ventures, a travel-focused fund in Asia, questioned possible visa restrictions or taxes on visitor arrivals as possible means of retaliation. The tariffs have also sparked fears of global instability. The Trump administration's disruptive actions have caused market falls and uncertainty, holding back investment decisions. Fritz Demopoulos, CEO of Queens Road Capital, pointed out the possible impact on the top 20% of consumers who consume 80% of travel and are most affected by the wealth effect. Perceptions of the U.S. have also taken a hit. Ross Veitch, CEO and co-founder of Wego, an online travel agency focused on the Middle East and Southeast Asia, cited increased tariffs, anti-foreigner rhetoric, and news stories about deporting foreigners as damaging the U.S.'s appeal to visitors. This sentiment will likely affect inbound tourism to the U.S., which has already been impacted by tariffs imposed on Canada. Outbound travel from the U.S. may also be affected. Retaliatory tariffs are likely to increase costs and reduce demand, driving more domestic tourism in the short term. This could impact other markets, such as the European market, which could see fewer U.S. travelers but stronger European demand. The tariffs' impact is expected to ripple across the travel industry, prompting a period of adaptation and uncertainty as countries and businesses navigate these unprecedented changes. Discover more at WebinTravel. North Adams School Committee Officially Appoints Incoming Superintendent NORTH ADAMS, Mass. The School Committee unanimously voted on Tuesday to appoint Timothy Callahan as superintendent and approve his contract. School committee member Richard Alcombright expressed his strong support during Tuesday's vote. Timothy Callahan, currently assistant superintendent, will succeed Barbara Malkas upon her retirement at the end of the school year. The committee discussed his contract in a closed executive session before approving it. His contract will run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028. Callan will receive an annual salary of $160,000 in the first year, and $164,800 and $169,744, respectively, in the next two, subject to negotiation and performance evaluations. He gets 25 days vacation, cumulative up to 35, along with general benefits including mileage, sick time, insurance, an annuity plan and educational reimbursements. The committee then discussed the 2025-2026 school year calendar, with some members expressing reservations about the proposed two-week Christmas break. School Committee member Tara Jacobs expressed concern that the extended break would negatively impact students who rely on school for structure, safety, food, and support. "This is just concerning to me," she said. "And it will go where it goes, but I don't think I can support this." Malkas reported that the North Adams Teachers Association presented two calendar options. Option A, which included the two-week Christmas break, was overwhelmingly supported by the teachers. This option had teachers starting the school year on Aug. 25 and students on Aug. 28-29. Option B, with teachers returning Aug. 27 and students Sept. 2-3, featured a shorter, split Christmas break. Malkas explained that Christmas falling on a Thursday complicated the scheduling. Mayor Jennifer Macksey supported Jacobs' concerns, suggesting shortening the break and spreading the remaining days off throughout the year. Other members suggested adding half-days, but Malkas noted that these can be more challenging for parents. Malkas stated that teachers felt "chopping up" the Christmas break would be disruptive. She also anticipated high absenteeism because of family travel if the break were to start or end mid-week. Re-submitting the calendar to NATA would delay approval until May, impacting their own summer vacation plans. She reiterated that 80 percent of NATA supported Option A, and a change in direction was uncertain. School Committee member Cody Chamberlain inquired about providing meals for students during the break. Malkas acknowledged the funding and staffing challenges but offered to explore community resources. She also mentioned the district's plan to conduct a deep cleaning of the schools during the break, citing high rates of illness this year. The calendar was approved 4-3 with Jacobs, Macksey, and Chamberlain voting no. The School Committee also went through a complete review of the proposed fiscal 2026 budget, which was recommended by the Finance and Facilities Committee, and voted to set a public hearing to approve the budget on May 6. Alcombright, who recalled being involved in 31 school budget cycles, said he was impressed by the budget and how much it supports with so few resources. "I don't recall a budget that was so short on funding, and I have certainly never seen one with so little question of what might be cut. There is nothing here," he said. "I want to commend you all who helped build this. In some respects, as ugly as it may seem, it is still out there, and it provides for our kids." The conversation at one point moved to possible federal education cuts. Malkas had no answers, only questions. "Quite frankly, there isn't an answer because it is really hard to figure out what direction it will go," she said. "Both Title 1 and IDEA are funded through Congress. Their funding formulas are written into law, but quite frankly, we don't know if that will matter." She added she did send a letter to district teachers sharing these concerns. Alcombright thought it made the current budget more impressive knowing it properly funds education even amid so much uncertainty. "The large deficit, while scary, the road ahead is very scary we are going in with blinders and our eyes half shut to what this is going to look like next year because of the political landscape," he said. Earlier in the meeting, the School Committee heard from Brayton Principal Anne Riello and Colgrove Principal Amy Meehan. The two provided updates on the school year. Riello said Brayton worked hard this year to foster a strong community. With the closure of Greylock and the grade reconfiguration, she said Brayton is essentially a new school now as it is now educating only Grades PreK through 2. "We are introducing three groups of students together, three groups of parents together, and three groups of teachers together, and we have been working on building our community," she said. She said during this process it was important to eliminate school-specific language. "At the beginning of the year, people would say, 'that is the Brayton way, that is the Greylock way,'" she said. "No. That is not a thing. This is our new Brayton, and we are building this together. The staff has worked very hard to eliminate that language." She concluded that 62 potential new students attended the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten screenings. She said this is one of the larger groups the district has seen in years. Meehan reported a reduction in disciplinary issues, absenteeism and tardiness. "I really take that as a positive given all of the change," she said, of the 3 to Grade 6 school. "It was very difficult on students leaving the building that they love, teachers that they love and the classmates they were with." The School Committee approved two proprietary specifications in regard to the Greylock School building project. Jesse Saylor, project manager at TSKP Studio, noted that per Massachusetts General Law, an elected body can vote to close open bidding to specific items if there is a clear benefit with a specific product or service that cannot be replicated by another company. Andover Controls was selected as the lone building controls contractor. Saylor said it made sense to award the project to Andover Controls because the rest of the school buildings are under its service. Secondly, Audio Enhancement was awarded the communications contract. Saylor said Audio is the only company that integrates public address and sound reinforcement with added security features. Stai utilizzando Internet Eplorer: e un browser molto vecchio, non sicuro, e non piu supportato neanche da Microsoft stessa, che l'ha creato. Per favore utilizza un browser moderno come Edge, Firefox, Chrome o uno qualunque degli altri a disposizione gratuitamente. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Bill Murray was filmed lashing out at a fan who appeared to invade his personal space. In a clip posted to TikTok on Wednesday, the 74-year-old actor confronted the man at a movie theater in New York City. Murray was seen walking through the lobby before a fan appeared to bump into him with a phone in their hand. He then turned around and pointed at the fan, before shouting: You attack me like that again, Ill step on your foot. A security guard intervened and walked behind Murray, who accused the fan of physical assault. Dont do it again! the Ghostbusters star added while walking away from the fan, who could be heard saying they were sorry for the interaction. According to photos posted on Instagram by a fan, Murray was recently at AMC Lincoln Square 13 for a Q&A presentation of his new film The Friend, in which he stars with Naomi Watts. Adapted from Sigrid Nunezs 2018 National Book Award-winning novel, it stars Watts as Iris, a New York author who reluctantly inherits Apollo, the cherished companion of her late mentor Walter (Murray). Bill Murray accused fan of attacking him in viral interaction ( @anthony_anderson5/TikTok ) The actors viral interaction with the fan comes shortly after he was criticized for kissing Watts in the middle of an interview on Andy Cohens Watch What Happens Live. During one point of the conversation, Watts, who is married to Billy Crudup, was asked about the best movie or TV kiss of her career. Before she could answer, Murray quickly grabbed her face and kissed her. Watts appeared visibly shocked, placing her face in her hands while shaking her head. But she took the moment in her stride, telling Murray: Youve got lipstick on your face. She then asked: Did I go red? Murray, who previously starred opposite Watts in the 2014 film St Vincent, looked into the camera and put his thumb up. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. However, Murray received immense backlash for the kiss, with one person calling it horrifying and disrespectful on X/Twitter. Bill Murrays appearance on WWHL tonight was... something, another wrote, while a third agreed: How gross and horrifying. Andy saying yes and so good, ugh just awful. Watts eventually revealed her favorite career kiss was with Crudup, whom she married in 2023. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Bill Murray has been criticised after forcibly kissing Naomi Watts on a US talk show. Earlier this week, the actor, who has been getting candid about his career regrets, appeared on Watch What Happens Live alongside Watts, with whom he stars in new film The Friend. At one stage, Australian star Watts, who is married to Billy Crudup, was asked about the best movie or TV kiss of her career and Murray quickly grabbed her face and kissed her. Watts, 56, appeared visibly shocked, placing her face in her hands, while shaking her head. But she took the moment, which was intended to be a joke, in her stride, telling Murray, 74: Youve got lipstick on her face. She then asked: Did I go red? Murray, whom previously starred opposite Watts in 2014 film St Vincent, looked into the camera and put his thumb up. However, the actor, who has had a run-in with one of his eager fans, is receiving backlash for the kiss, with one person calling it horrifying and disrespectful on X/Twitter. open image in gallery Bill Murray forcibly kissing Naomi Watts on US talk show ( YouTube ) Another viewer wrote: Bill Murrays appearance on WWHL tonight was... something. Between calling Naomi Watts a little girl to grabbing & kissing her without notice. Ive been a fan as long as I can remember but it was rough to watch. Others questioned host Andy Cohens response, who branded the moment so good. How gross and horrifying. Andy saying yes and so good, ugh just awful, one person chimed in. The Independent has contacted Watts and Murray for comment. open image in gallery Bill Murray and Naomi Watts star in new film The Friend ( Getty Images ) Watts eventually revealed her favourite career kiss was Billy Crudup, whom she married in 2023. In January, writing in her new book Dare I Say It: Everything I Wish Id Known about Menopause, Watts revealed that a sex scene with Crudup was so steamy that it sparked their relationship. The Oscar-nominated actor, 54, spoke about the experience, revealing that it made her blush and break character. The Mulholland Drive star recounted meeting Crudrup on the set of the 2017 Netflix series Gypsy, in which Watts played a horny, sociopathic therapist. Crudup played the husband of her character. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Billy and I chatted on set during lighting changes and Id have said we were friendly, Watts wrote. open image in gallery Billy Crudup and Naomi Watts are married ( AFP via Getty Images ) But for a very long time, that was as far as it went. I was so closed off to love that in the months and months of shooting, even after wed simulated sex on screen many times, dry-humping each other to the point of exhaustion, I hadnt given romance with him a thought. At the time, Watts had recently separated from her ex-husband, the American actor Liev Schrieber, whom she was with for 11 years. They share two children together. Watts said that she changed her mind about Crudup after filming a sex scene so steamy it made her blush and break character. Then one day during a sex scene, he spontaneously flung a pillow across the room while ravishing me with such passion that I blushed and broke character, she wrote. Oh! Why, hello, sailor, I thought to myself, and as me, not as the woman I was playing. Then: Wait, that felt like something. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Kurt Russell has left his fans overjoyed after reuniting with his co-star from The Thing, Keith David, after more than 40 years. The duo were in attendance at a ceremony honouring the great horror director John Carpenter as he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Thursday (3 April). In footage captured at the event by writer Wynter Mitchell, the two are seen embracing and sharing a few warm exchanges, with Russell telling David: You look terrific. Despite both being frequent collaborators with Carpenter, The Thing, which was the subject of a prequel in 2011, remains the only movie the two ever starred in together. They played American researchers in Antarctica, battling a shape-shifting alien life-form in the horror classic. Their respective characters, MacReady and Childs, are the only two survivors at the films conclusion, leading to an iconic ending where fans are led to believe that either one of them has been possessed by the extra-terrestrial entity. The clip of their reunion in Los Angeles, which has since gone viral, has prompted fans to express their own happiness at seeing the two with each other again. In response, one person said: Dudes rock. Another wrote: This s*** means something to me, man. A third simply called them: Two absolute icons and legends. Meanwhile, another fan joked: Somebody quick, ask them if Giles or MacReady was The Thing at the end of the movie? Some eagle-eyed fans also noticed The Thing cinematographer Dean Cundey standing behind Russell and David. Dean Cundey glaring at them in the background is killing me, said one amused viewer. US filmmaker John Carpenter is joined by makeup artist Greg Nicotero and actors Kurt Russell and Keith David at his Walk of Fame Star ceremony ( AFP via Getty Images ) Besides The Thing, Russell worked with Carpenter on Escape from New York, and its sequel Escape from LA, as well as Big Trouble in Little China and the TV film Elvis. Davids only other Carpenter film was the cult 1988 sci-fi movie They Live. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Speaking at the Hollywood Walk of Fame event, Russell said: There are very, very few directors whose signature is so clearly and instantly stamped upon a film that within thirty seconds of viewing it, the informed watcher can boldly and confidently say out loud, oh thats directed by so and so. John Carpenter is one of those rare, very few so and sostheres nobody more deserving, my friend, than John Carpenter. In a brief speech, Carpenter thanked the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce for adding his star to the Walk of Fame and added: I was looking for a career in Hollywood. Well, I found my career. And today, I have found Hollywood. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Halle Berry has addressed the return of her X-Men co-stars in the forthcoming Avengers film. The actor was notably missing from the list of actors who would appear in Avengers: Doomsday, which is bringing back a number of stars from the films released between 2000 to 2016. Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen and James Marsden will all reprise their roles as Professor X, Magneto and Cyclops, as will Alan Cumming and Rebecca Romijn as Nightcrawler and Mystique, respectively. Kelsey Grammer will also return as Beast, having shown up in a post-credits sequence for 2024 film The Marvels. But fans were upset to see Berrys name missing from the credits, with many assuming Storm would be a shoo-in to show up. However, hope was kept alive when Marvel suggested more names would be confirmed nearer the films release, with their roles being filmed in secret. Berry has now shut down the speculation, telling Black Girl Nerds she is not going to be there. Maintaining that she definitely wont be in the film, she added: Keep waiting. The fifth superhero movie in the Avengers franchise is scheduled to be released on 1 Mat 2026, seven years after Avengers: Endgame. Filming has begun. Halle Berry wont be returning as X-Men character Storm in Avengers: Doosmday ( Fox ) Doomsdays cast will be led by Robert Downey Jr, the former Iron Man star who is now playing the villain, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson/Falcon, Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier, Tom Hiddleston as Loki and Paul Rudd as Ant-Man. Marvel boss Kevin Feige previously addressed the long wait between the fourth and fifth Avengers films, explaining that greater Marvel output on Disney+ has reduced the need for the ensemble blockbusters. The truth is, when we were doing Phase One, Phase Two, and Phase Three, there were [fewer] projects over more years. They were smaller projects and individual character stories, and it felt appropriate at that point, that after every two or three years that it took for a phase, we would do an Avengers film, he told MTV News in 2022. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. As [Phases] Four, Five and Six were coming together, there are more projects in less years because of all the amazing stuff were now allowed to do on Disney+, and getting characters from Fox Fantastic Four and Deadpool that it felt like, certainly after Infinity War and Endgame, that we thought Avengers movies arent cappers. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Mel Gibson will be allowed to own guns again, despite a prior domestic violence conviction against him, thanks to a new ruling by the US Justice Department. The Mad Max actor had his gun rights revoked in 2011 when he was charged with misdemeanour spousal battery and pleaded no contest in a deal with prosecutors that kept him out of jail. Federal law in the United States bans all those with felony convictions, and most people with domestic violence charges, from possessing firearms. As part of the 2011 plea deal, Gibson spent three years on probation, underwent a year of domestic violence counselling and performed 16 hours of community service. The New York Times reported on Thursday (3 April), citing an unnamed source familiar with the Justice Department, that Attorney General Pam Bondi approved the decision to restore Gibsons rights. The source added that the specifics are expected to be published in the Federal Register. The 69-year-old Oscar winner and prominent Donald Trump supporter was reportedly among nine other people whose rights to own a gun would be restored. open image in gallery Mel Gibson at the 2017 Academy Awards ( Getty Images ) It comes after a former Department of Justice attorney suggested the actor was the reason she was fired. Earlier this year, Elizabeth G Oyer said that she was asked to join a working group reviewing cases of individuals with past convictions who could be eligible to restore their gun rights. After narrowing down the candidates to nine people with old convictions and a low risk of recidivism, Oyer said senior Justice Department officials asked her to add Gibson to the list, despite his 2011 misdemeanour conviction for domestic violence. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. In a column for Rolling Stone, Oyer wrote: No one has told me why I was fired. But the notice was delivered hours after I declined to recommend reinstating the gun rights of a famous friend of the president, the actor Mel Gibson, who has a history of violence against women. Oyer also told CNN: When I came into work on Friday morning, I said to a colleague, I really think that Mel Gibson might be my downfall, and within hours of saying that, I was being escorted out of my office open image in gallery Gibson is an outspoken supporter of Donald Trump ( Getty Images ) Gibson was named as one of Trumps special envoys to Hollywood, along with Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone in a bid to make the US film industry bigger, better and stronger than ever before! The Independent has contacted Mel Gibsons representatives for comment. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Pierce Brosnan has said he could still get away with playing James Bond, as speculation continues to mount over the direction of the 007 films now that the franchise is owned by Amazon. The 71-year-old Irish actor played the iconic British spy character in four films: GoldenEye (1995), Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World Is Not Enough (1999) and Die Another Day (2002). During an appearance on the Today show to promote his latest role as the patriarch of a London gang in the Guy Ritchie show MobLand, Brosnan was asked by host Savannah Guthrie whether he could still play Bond. I think I could get away with it, yes, he replied. In a pinch. When Guthrie asked whether he would want to, Brosnan continued: I dont know. Lets see where the wind takes us. Lets see what happens. They know where to find me. Why not? After the host pointed out that its a very physical role and Brosnan agreed, she suggested that his role in Mobland proves he could still handle those demands. Pierce Brosnan is currently promoting the Guy Ritchie gangster series, Mobland ( Theo Wargo/Getty Images ) Thats very kind of you to say, Brosnan replied. Theres great things you can do with AI as well, so there you have it. [But] Im quite content the way it is. I love Mobland, and The Thursday Murder Club is coming out sometime this year. So there you have it, Im quite content. Brosnan is set to appear alongside Helen Mirren, Ben Kingsley, and David Tennant in a Netflix adaptation of Richard Osmans bestselling novel The Thursday Murder Club. When the host noted his busy schedule on top of the speculation he could return as Bond, Brosnan responded: Its an embarrassment of riches, Savannah. Mirren, who also stars in Mobland, singled out Brosnan as one of her favorite Bonds in a recent interview, saying, Im a huge fan of Pierce Brosnan, I mean massive fan... And indeed Daniel Craig, who Ive met and know a little bit. But, she criticized the movies for being drenched and born out of profound sexism. Brosnan reacted to Mirrens comments as he told People: "Yes, there's a certain agreement there. However, he continued: But theres a certain world and room to move within the proscenium arch of what [Bond creator and author] Ian Fleming put down. So theres always going to be conflict. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Speculation continues as to who will replace Daniel Craig as the British spy in the forthcoming films. A number of actors have been rumoured to replace him in the iconic role, including Idris Elba, Tom Hardy, and the reputed favourite to replace him, Aaron-Taylor Johnson. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice After the near-universal acclaim lavished on the first two seasons of The White Lotus, it seems fair to say that season three has met a cooler reception. One of the criticisms has been that the show has opened up numerous avenues of potential conflict, only to seemingly (temporarily?) close them off again. Bewildered, downer-addled Tim steals the gun from the police hut but then Gaitok steals it back. Simmering, fixated Rick goes to Bangkok on a revenge mission but then bottles it and hits the town with Frank instead. Impulsive, desperate Laurie is caught in bed with Russian jewel thief Aleksei but manages to escape a full-blown bundle with his furious girlfriend via a window. Lets just say theres been a lot of prologue. However, this slow burn does have one big advantage: its hard to see how the finale is going to be anything other than explosive because, in traditional White Lotus style, weve already heard the gunshots. And the only potential shooters who can be definitively ruled out at this point are meditation teacher Amrita and Belindas son Zion whose trip to see his mum has already become unpleasantly dramatic. If anything, the situation feels more unpredictable than in previous seasons by this point in both The White Lotus one and two, the battle lines were essentially drawn. This time, almost everyone seems to be somewhere on an emotional scale ranging from miffed to extravagantly deranged. Even the monkeys are looking as sinister as hell. Certainly, spiritual enlightenment seems a long way off for the members of this tanned, ripped but ugly-on-the-inside crew. But who is going to pull the trigger? We have thoughts Gaitok goes gangster? open image in gallery The look of love: Mook (Lalisa Manobal) and Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) share a moment ( HBO ) Poor, sweet, gentle Gaitok. Somehow, hes felt like a victim-in-waiting since the moment we met him. But victimhood takes many forms. If anyone wasnt born to be a cop it was Gaitok. But nevertheless, with the policing of the resort becoming more proactive, the gun back in the office drawer and his (correct) identification of the sketchy Russians as the jewellery thieves at the Muay Thai fight, its clear hes going to be forced into dramatic action. The extra hot sauce in this already pungent emotional broth is his ardent longing for Mook, a woman whose affection for him seems somewhat conditional. She has rightly pegged him as a soft touch but all the same, you just know hed go the extra mile to prove her wrong. And for all of his charm, weve already learnt that hes a surprisingly deadly shot after his visit to the range. Is he going to be the hero? Or, as seems more likely, entirely lose the run of himself when things get real? Its always the quiet ones Phil Harrison Tim the timebomb? open image in gallery Grim outlook: Tim (Jason Isaacs) takes in the view ( HBO/Sky ) Granted, Tim going on a rampage and killing everyone is arguably the most obvious answer on this list. For seven episodes straight, the financially troubled Ratliff patriarch has been simmering like a kettle on the stove about to go off. And theres only so much lorazepam one man can take. Hes been fantasising about it all along: first, hell shoot Victoria, then Saxon and lastly himself. There is, of course, the issue of the many, many shots heard in the first episode much too many for a simple double-murder-suicide. But obviously, Tim wouldnt stop at just three, hed have to kill Piper and Lochlan, too, lest they have to live out the rest of their lives parentless and penniless. Im betting someone walks in and sees, leading him to shoot them in a panic and so on. You might say, well what about Tims interest in the monastic lifestyle in the last episode? A red herring! Victoria would never let him join a monastery. No, the only way out is in the dirt: death. Annabel Nugent Saxon spins out open image in gallery Sibling strife: Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger) and Lochlan (Sam Nivola) in happier times ( Fabio Lovino/HBO ) In the penultimate episode of The White Lotus, the resident sex-obsessed alpha-male Saxon confronts his father/employer about why hes acting so shifty on their vacay and whether his erratic behaviour has anything to do with the liquidity of their family company. My career is totally tied to yours, so if something bad is happening, its happening to both of us, Saxon warns him. I dont have anything else but this I cant handle being nothing. While Tim stayed tight-lipped on the fraud/embezzlement blunder hes been hiding from his family, Saxon will go bananas once he learns that his family is officially broke. My theory: the robbers will return to storm the hotel for different reasons (those are the gunshots in episode one), but amid the chaos, Saxon will find a gun and murder his father as revenge for ruining his life. This whole time, the script has hinted towards Tim killing his wife (Parker Posey) but the repugnant son murdering his dad will be the ultimate twist. Plus, if anyones the murderer, it has to be Saxon. Ellie Muir Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Ricks raging return? open image in gallery Snake charmer: Rick (Walton Goggins) and friend ( Fabio Lovino/HBO ) After the big build-up, Ricks trip to Bangkok didnt quite blow up. He nudged Frank off the wagon. And he looked his dads murderer in the eye and then, well ... pushed his chair over and ran away. Come on Rick; you can do better than that. The air of seething resentment thats hung over this man throughout the series just has to find full expression eventually. Meanwhile, his blameless and, we might add, stupendously patient girlfriend Chelsea has been gamely resisting Saxons increasingly insistent advances in Ricks absence. But the insufferable nepo baby did manage to talk his way into her bedroom in the last episode, under the pretence of learning to meditate and you just know hes not going to leave it there. How might Rick react if he returned to the resort after his abortive revenge mission to find the incest-curious American in his private suite? My money is on badly. Jacob Stolworthy The ruthless Russians open image in gallery Gold standard: Valentin (Arnas Fedaravicius) turns on the charm ( HBO ) The focus on the trio of Russians the hotels resident yoga guru and energy healer Valentin, his confusingly similar-looking friend Aleksei and their absolute downer of a pal, Vlad has amped up over the last couple of episodes. The penultimate instalment finally confirmed what many of us viewers have been suspecting for a while: that the group were in fact behind the hotel robbery at the start of the series. Laurie even saw the spoils of their crime including the snakey necklace when she was doing a runner from the worlds most depressing one-night stand with Aleksei. With hotel boss Sritala presumably still in Bangkok after her strange, fake movie meeting with Rick and Frank (who else kind of wants to watch The Enforcer, The Executor and The Notary, the trilogy of films that Frank summoned from thin air to bolster his imaginary directing credentials? They sound very much like theyd star Jason Statham), Valentin and co might strike again. But with hotel guard Gaitok newly tooled up with his own gun, things could get seriously messy, culminating in the massive shootout teased back in episode one. Gaitok is desperate to prove himself after his crush Mook lectured him for not being aggressive enough but I dont fancy his chances against a group of hardened criminals, especially ones that are preternaturally flexible. Katie Rosseinsky Chelsea gets the chop? open image in gallery Love at first bite: Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood) ponders her fate ( Fabio Lovino/HBO ) From the moment Chelsea arrived on screen in White Lotus season three, shes stood out as the shows emotional centre the only character seemingly untouched by cynicism. But in a series obsessed with death and duality, her light feels too pure to survive. Shes already been bitten by a snake, caught up in a robbery, and plagued by a sense of impending doom telling herself that bad things come in threes. And threes are everywhere: three squabbling girlfriends, three damaged Ratliff children, three Russian robbers, three guns in circulation, not to mention the twisted threesome on the boat even the third season itself. In a show that dances with craven desire and moral rot, the brightest soul is often the most expendable. Chelseas death would confirm what this series has been whispering all along: in paradise, the darkness always wins. Rod Ardehali The Gossip Girls go guerilla? open image in gallery The girlfriends explore the market (from left) Laurie (Carrie Coon), Kate (Leslie Bibb) and Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan) ( Fabio Lovino/HBO ) I dont know any women like the friendship trio in White Lotus season three and Im glad this has escaped my female experience thus far. Jaclyn, Laurie, and Kate have been seething away at each other, episode upon episode; what was once peeling off into twos and bitching about the absent party became outright attacks, namely between Jaclyn and Kate, who both flirt with the same dodgy Russian. There are other tensions and rivalries going on that male viewers might believe are far more dramatic than the one between these ladies but if anyone has the resentment to start a full-throttle shootout, I can only imagine that its those three. My bet is on Kate telling Jaclyns partner somehow about Jaclyns cheating (or the world more generally finding out about it via one of the other two) and Jaclyn and Kate getting into some fight that Laurie has to intervene in. You cant tell me these three demons dont have a larger part to play in all this. Hannah Ewens Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Olivia Munn has spoken out against Blue Origins all-female crew space, calling the forthcoming mission gluttonous. In February, it was announced that Jeff Bezos aerospace company would be welcoming its first all-female crew, comprised of Bezos fiancee Lauren Sanchez, pop star Katy Perry, CBS News anchor Gayle King, former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, activist Amanda Nguyen, and movie producer Kerianne Flynn. The group is set to take off in the New Shepard spacecraft from the companys West Texas base on April 14. Though the new mission is set to make history for Blue Origin, Munn isnt impressed. While co-hosting Thursdays episode of Today With Jenna and Friends, the 44-year-old Predator star criticized the upcoming spectacle. I know this probably isnt the cool thing to say, but there are so many other things that are so important in the world right now, Munn said, questioning the point of the 11-minute flight. What are you guys gonna do up in space? What are you doing up there? she asked. If you wanna go to space, why do you need to tell us about it, you know? Its just like, go up there, have a good time, come on down. open image in gallery Blue Origin's first all-female crew is set to take off on April 14 ( Blue Origin ) The X-Men: Apocalypse actor further railed against the amount of money and resources the journey will cost. I know this is probably obnoxious, but like, its so much money to go to space, and theres a lot of people who cant even afford eggs, she added, referring to the global surge in egg prices caused by the widespread bird flu outbreak. Host Jenna Bush Hager jumped in to note that the women are planning to go up in full glam. open image in gallery Olivia Munn questioned the point of the forthcoming mission ( NBC ) What? They said this out loud?! Munn replied in utter shock. The group revealed their plans to fly to space with their hair and makeup done in an interview with Elle. Whats the point? Is it historic that you guys are going on a ride? Munn asked, adding, I think its a bit gluttonous. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Historically, she said that space exploration was to further our knowledge and to help mankind. What are they gonna do up there that has made it better for us down here? she wondered. This is a lot of resources being spent. The forthcoming mission will be Blue Origins 11th mission. Sanchez is said to have brought the mission together, according to Blue Origin. [Sanchez] is honored to lead a team of explorers on a mission that will challenge their perspectives of Earth, empower them to share their own stories, and create lasting impact that will inspire generations to come, the company said in a statement. During their brief journey, they will fly past the Karman line, which is an internationally recognized border between Earths atmosphere and outer space. This flight will undoubtedly prove to be a life-changing experience for each of us, and Im honored to be with such an incredible group of explorers, Sanchez said. Most importantly, I am looking forward to all the women in this crew sharing their story and inspiring future generations to dream big. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The White Lotus executive producer David Bernad has revealed that fake scripts containing six different finales were distributed during production to ensure the real ending wouldnt leak. The final episode of season three of Mike Whites hit social satire airs this Sunday, with speculation rife as to how the 90-minute final installment will play out. Speaking to People, Bernad said: We have fake endings to the scripts. So we wrote up we have six different endings and we kind of distributed fake endings to people just in case someone leaked anything, and then we could say theres different fake endings. He continued: And then when we shot the ending scene, it's a locked down set. So no one really has access to what we were shooting, and there would be no non-White Lotus participants ever seeing what we're doing. Along with the ending, Bernad said there were two further key secrets that were closely guarded during production: the return of Jon Gries and the casting of Sam Rockwell. Patrick Schwarzenegger as Saxon Ratliff and Sam Nivola as his brother Lochlan in season three of The White Lotus ( Fabio Lovino/HBO ) Bernad explained that Gries was determined not to reveal his presence ahead of time, saying: Jon was really committed to keeping the secret. When we were traveling and entered Thailand, he, one time, rode with the equipment in a bus, instead of flying the 45 minutes or whatever it was. I think he drove like, 12 hours from Phuket to Bangkok. Ahead of Sundays finale, it has still not been revealed which character or characters may end up dead and which may be killers. Seven The Independent writers have offered their own theories. Phil Harrison suggests sweet-natured security guard Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) could turn violent: Is he going to be the hero? Or, as seems more likely, entirely lose the run of himself when things get real? Its always the quiet ones Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Annabel Nugent says troubled patriarch Tim Ratliff (Jason Isaacs) is the most likely murderer: For seven episodes straight, the financially troubled Ratliff patriarch has been simmering like a kettle on the stove about to go off. And theres only so much lorazepam one man can take. Hes been fantasising about it all along: first, hell shoot Victoria, then Saxon and lastly himself. Jacob Stolworthy speculates that Rick (Walton Goggins) might turn to murder if he catches his girlfriend being unfaithful: How might Rick react if he returned to the resort after his abortive revenge mission to find the incest-curious American [Saxon] in his private suite? My money is on badly. Read more White Lotus theories here. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice As he looks to solidify his territorial gains in Ukraine in a potential ceasefire deal, Russian President Vladimir Putin has one eye trained on Russias southern border and boosting Russian influence in Central Asia. Following his 2024 re-election, Putin made Uzbekistan his third foreign visit after China and Belarus. The visit signalled the regions continued importance to Moscow. In response to Western sanctions on Moscow over the Ukraine war, trade and investment between Russia and Central Asian countries have grown significantly. Russias Lukoil and Gazprom are now the dominant foreign players in Uzbekistans energy fields. In Kazakhstan, Moscow controls a quarter of the countrys uranium production. But as Russia tries to reaffirm its role in the region, China has also been quietly expanding its influence. Could this growing competition over Central Asia affect Beijing and Moscows broader relationship? Central Asia drifting apart from Moscow The Central Asian region is home to approximately 79 million people spread across five nations. It was part of the Soviet Union until its collapse in 1991. Its strategic location between Russia and China, on the doorstep of the Middle East, has long made it a grand chessboard for great power politics. While Russia has traditionally dominated the region, Central Asian leaders have made efforts to somewhat distance themselves from Moscow recently. At the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) summit in October 2022, for example, Tajikistans president publicly challenged Russian President Vladimir Putin. He demanded respect for smaller states like his. Similarly, during Putins 2023 visit to Kazakhstan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev made a symbolic statement at the press conference by delivering his speech in Kazakh rather than Russian. This was a rare move that seemed to catch Putins delegation off guard. open image in gallery Russian President Vladimir Putin, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov in 2023 ( Sputnik ) In another striking moment, Tokayev declared at an economic forum in Russia in 2022 that Kazakhstan does not recognise Russias quasi-states, referring to its occupied territories of Ukraine. Yet, all Central Asian states remain part of at least one Russia-led organisation, such as the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Collective Security Treaty Organization, or the Eurasian Economic Union. Three states (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan) rely on Russian security guarantees through the Collective Security Treaty Organization. And the regions economic dependency on Russia remains significant. Of the 6.1 million migrants in Russia, the largest groups come from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. These countries depend heavily on remittances from these migrant workers. Chinas growing influence With Russia preoccupied with Ukraine and constrained by Western sanctions, China has seized the opportunity to deepen its engagement in the region. Beijings involvement in Central Asia has long been economic. In 2013, for instance, China unveiled its ambitious, global Belt and Road Initiative in Kazakhstan. And by 2024, it was China, not Russia, that was the largest trading partner of every Central Asian country except Tajikistan. But in recent years, China has expanded its influence beyond economic ties, establishing itself as a key player in regional politics. At the inaugural China-Central Asia Summit in 2023, for example, Chinese leader Xi Jinping pledged support for the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the region. This is traditionally a role played by Russia. open image in gallery China's President Xi Jinping ( AFP/Getty ) Xi has also been making high-profile visits to Central Asian states, signalling Beijings growing strategic interests here. Local populations, however, remain wary. Public opinion surveys indicate China is viewed more negatively than Russia. Many Chinese-funded projects bring their own workers, limiting job opportunities for locals and fuelling resentment. There is also anxiety about potential debt trap diplomacy. Civil society groups have called for economic diversification to avoid over-reliance on Beijing. Further complicating matters is Beijings treatment of the Muslim minority Uyghur population in the Xinjiang region of western China. This has reinforced suspicions in Muslim-majority Central Asia about Chinas long-term intentions in the region. Growing competition The increasing competition raises questions about the potential impact on the broader, no limits relationship between Moscow and Beijing. At a recent forum, Putin acknowledged Beijings growing economic role in the region. However, he insisted Russia still has special ties with Central Asian states, rooted in history. And he notably dismissed concerns about Chinas expansionist aims, saying: There is nothing about domination in the Chinese philosophy. They do not strive for domination. On the ground, however, things arent so simple. So far, China and Russia have managed to avoid stepping on each others toes. How long that balance remains, however, is an open question. Central Asian countries, meanwhile, are courting both sides and diversifying their ties beyond the two powers. Many of the regions educated elite are increasingly looking toward Turkey and pan-Turkic solidarity as an alternative to both Russian and Chinese dominance. Russias historical influence in the region remains strong. But the days of its unquestioned dominance appear to be over. Russia may try to reassert its preeminent position, but Chinas deepening economic presence is not going anywhere. With both countries pushing their own regional agendas, its hard to ignore the overlap and the potential for a future clash over competing interests. Dilnoza Ubaydullaeva is a Lecturer in Government at Flinders University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The US government has reportedly implemented a blanket ban on romantic and sexual relationships between its personnel in China and Chinese citizens. The ban was reportedly enforced by Nicholas Burns just before he departed as US ambassador to Beijing in January. It applies to diplomats, their family members, and contractors with security clearances stationed at the US embassy and consulates in mainland China and Hong Kong. Four sources with knowledge of the secret directive confirmed its existence on the condition of anonymity to the Associated Press. The ban was reportedly introduced amid concerns over espionage, especially about Chinese intelligence using honeypot tactics. Previously, US personnel in China were subject to limited restrictions, mainly requiring them to report such relationships. The new directive, a Cold War-style measure, mandates that anyone with an existing Chinese partner seek an exemption, end the relationship, or leave their post if the exemption is denied. Violation will result in immediate expulsion from China, the sources told the news agency. The US state department spokesperson told The Independent that as a general matter, we do not comment on internal State Department matters. The Independent has reached out to Mr Burns for comment. File. Former US ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, right, with then foreign secretary Antony Blinken in Shanghai on 24 April 2024 ( Getty ) Mr Burns served as the US ambassador in Beijing from 2021 until January this year. He joined The Cohen Group, a consultancy firm, as vice chair in February. The US government has not publicly acknowledged the directive, which was reportedly prompted by pressure from members of Congress concerned about espionage risks. The US governments non-fraternisation policies for its personnel in other nations remain largely unknown as they are classified, and the extent of their restrictiveness is also unclear. The geopolitical rivalry between the US and China has intensified in recent years, a friction further fuelled by president Donald Trumps decision on 2 April to impose sweeping 54 per cent tariffs on Chinese imports. Chinas foreign ministry and several other government agencies prohibit their staff from engaging in sexual or romantic relationships with foreign nationals. Members of the Chinese military and police are also typically not allowed to travel abroad without explicit approval from their superiors. Peter Mattis, a former CIA analyst, told the Associated Press that Chinas ministry of state security had previously used seduction to target American diplomats and often coerced ordinary Chinese citizens to gather intelligence. However, he added, this had rarely happened in recent years. He said any romantic involvement between Chinese citizens and US diplomats could pose a security risk. The state security ministry was willing to leverage any human connection that a target has to collect intelligence, he added. This rule change suggests the MSS has gotten a lot more aggressive at trying to access the embassy and US government. Additional reporting by agencies On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice South Koreas constitutional court upheld president Yoon Suk Yeols impeachment on Friday and removed him from office. The country will now hold snap elections to replace Mr Yoon in just 60 days from now. In a unanimous verdict, the court found that Mr Yoons decision to impose martial law in December last year plunging the country into uncertainty and political turmoil was not justified. Justice Moon Hyung-bae, acting president of the constitutional court, said the country was not facing a national emergency at the time. It was a situation that could have been solved through means other than military deployment, he said. The defendant not only declared martial law, but also violated the constitution and laws by mobilising military and police forces to obstruct the exercise of legislative authority, Mr Moon said during the televised verdict. Ultimately, the declaration of martial law in this case violated the substantive requirements for emergency martial law. He added: Given the grave negative impact on constitutional order and the significant ripple effects of the defendants violations, we find that the benefits of upholding the constitution by removing the defendant from office far outweigh the national losses from the removal of a president. Mr Yoons attorney, Yoon Gap-geun, called the courts decision unfair. He said: The whole process of this trial itself was not lawful and unfair. And the result is something that we completely dont understand from the perspective of law. He added: I feel regrettable that this completely is a political decision. open image in gallery Supporters of impeached South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol attend a rally to oppose his impeachment in Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, 3 April 2025. The letters read Dismiss impeachment ( Associated Press ) There were jubilant scenes on Friday at an anti-Yoon rally near the old royal palace in Seoul, where members of the public celebrated the courts ruling. Yoon supporters, meanwhile, are expected to intensify their rallies in the wake of the ruling. Police arrested one protester who reportedly broke a police bus window in the wake of the constitutional courts verdict on Mr Yoons impeachment. The opposition Democratic Party called the verdict a victory for the people, Yonhap news agency reported. Mr Yoons ruling party, the People Power Party, said it accepted the courts decision and apologised to the Korean people. open image in gallery Protesters shout slogans during a rally calling for impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to step down, near the Constitutional Court in Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, 3 April 2025 ( Associated Press ) Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, said the courts unanimous ruling has removed a major source of uncertainty. Korean government institutions have withstood a volatile mix of legislative obstruction and executive overreach that posed the greatest challenge to democracy in a generation. Now begins a compressed presidential election campaign that will stretch, if not tear, the social fabric of the country. open image in gallery Demonstrators who stayed overnight near the Constitutional Court, wait for the start of a rally calling for impeached South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol to step down, in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, 4 April 2025 ( Associated Press ) South Koreas acting president has issued an emergency order to maintain law and order in the country. Han Duck-soo will serve as the interim leader of the country until elections are held two months from now. Respecting the will of our sovereign people, I will do my utmost to manage the next presidential election in accordance with the constitution and the law, ensuring a smooth transition to the next administration, Mr Han said. The national divide over Mr Yoons impeachment is likely to persist, further complicating South Koreas attempt to navigate US president Donald Trumps America First agenda and North Koreas growing relationship with Russia. Despite being a vital US ally, South Korea was hit by a 25 per cent custom tariff in the trade measures unveiled by Mr Trump on Wednesday. open image in gallery Jo Eun-jin, who stayed overnight on the street, waits for the start of a rally calling for impeached South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol to step down, near the Constitutional Court in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, 4 April 2025 ( Associated Press ) Mr Yoons martial law decree last year lasted only six hours but rattled financial markets and alarmed allies. Hundreds of soldiers were sent to the National Assembly, election offices and other key places. Special forces also clashed with protesters and tried to prevent lawmakers from entering parliament to vote down the decree scenes that shocked South Koreans and the world. Mr Yoons ouster follows that of Park Geun-hye, another former president, who was impeached eight years earlier over corruption and abuse of power. open image in gallery Police officers move as protesters prepare to march toward the Constitutional Court during a rally calling for impeached South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol to step down near the Gwanghwamun, the main gate of the 14th-century Gyeongbok Palace, in Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, 3 April 2025 ( Associated Press ) In his closing testimony before the Constitutional Court, Mr Yoon described his decree as a last-ditch effort to rally public backing in his battle against what he called the wickedness of the Democratic Party, accusing it of blocking his agenda, impeaching key officials, and cutting the governments budget. He had previously branded the National Assembly a den of criminals and anti-state forces. Mr Yoon still faces criminal charges of rebellion, but experts say hes unlikely to retreat quietly. He is expected to remain a prominent political force, mobilising his staunch supporters and shaping the election race to choose his partys next leader. The main opposition Democratic Partys leader, Lee Jae-myung, is the current frontrunner, despite facing legal battles of his own. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Eight people died in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh on Thursday after inhaling toxic gas while cleaning a nearly 150-year-old well. They were trying to clean the well at Kondawat village in Khandwa district for an idol immersion ritual ahead of Gangaur, a Hindu festival celebrating the deity Gauri on 4 April. A labourer reportedly went down the well to remove the accumulated sludge but inhaled toxic fumes, fell unconscious and sank into the swampy residue at the bottom. He was identified by police by his first name Arjun. The well had not been in use for quite some time, local authorities told the media. Seven men who were helping Arjun with the clean-up attempted to rescue him, but they too succumbed to the toxic fumes and drowned, police said. In an attempt to save him, seven others entered the well one after another, only to succumb to the same poisonous gas, a district official was quoted as saying by The Indian Express. The news agency IANS, however, reported that three men had gone down initially and five entered later to rescue them. The bodies were retrieved after a four-hour rescue operation, launched at around 4.00pm local time on Thursday by police and state disaster response force. Arjuns body was the last to be pulled out. Bodies have been recovered. As per the preliminary information, the immersion of Gangaur Mata is scheduled to take place on 4 April. Traditionally, it was done in this well, located in the middle of the village, Manoj Kumar Rai, a senior police officer in Khandwa, said. The rescue operation began after villagers realised the men had not emerged from the well by evening. A 15-member state disaster response team, equipped with ropes and nets, arrived at the site along with police and local administration officials. Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav announced ex-gratia relief of Rs 400,000 (3,600) for each of the victims families and promised a thorough investigation. open image in gallery At least 8 men died after inhaling fumes in an old well in Madhya Pradesh, India ( Aaj Tak/YouTube screengrab ) The well, situated near a drain carrying the villages wastewater, had reportedly become swampy due to accumulated filth. Authorities believe toxic gas formed from the decomposition of waste, causing Arjun to suffocate when he entered to clean it. Those who attempted to rescue him met the same fate. Devastated villagers have decided to seal the well. The district administration has launched an inquiry. Several videos and photos from the site showed crowds gathered around the well and ambulances in the background. Visibly aggrieved villagers were seen milling around the well. The mens remains were sent to a nearby hospital for postmortem analysis. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A 24-year-old American tourist has been detained in India for entering a remote tribal area where islanders have no contact with the outside world, police said on Wednesday. Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, whose father is from Ukraine, set foot on North Sentinel Island, a part of Indias Andaman Islands, in an attempt to make contact with the isolated Sentinelese tribe, police said. He recorded his visit to the island, leaving a can of Coke and a coconut on the shore as an offering to the people of the tribe. The influencer, who runs a YouTube channel documenting extreme travel and previously visited Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, travelled nine hours in a small rubber dinghy with an outboard motor to reach the island and used binoculars to survey the area but saw no inhabitants. He tried to get the attention of native people by blowing a whistle and briefly landed on the shore for a few minutes before leaving. He left the offerings and collected sand samples while recording a video, police said. He arrived in the capital, Port Blair, on 27 March and was arrested three days later on Sunday after he was reported to police by locals, who saw him taking a boat to North Sentinel Island. open image in gallery Police said they reviewed his GoPro camera footage which showed his entry and landing into the restricted North Sentinel Island ( YouTube/Neo-Orientalist ) Andaman and Nicobar, a former British penal colony, is a group of 572 islands located more than 1,200km (700 miles) from mainland India. The Indian government strictly monitors access to some remote parts of the federal territory, which are home to five known indigenous tribes, some of whom are hostile to outsiders. These tribes include the Sentinelese, Jarwa, Onge, Shompens, and Great Andamanese, and are among the worlds last remaining isolated communities. Indians and foreigners alike are prohibited from traveling within 5km (3 miles) of the island to protect the indigenous people from external diseases and safeguard their way of life. Andaman and Nicobar director general of police HS Dhaliwal said police were alerted after locals spotted the man near Khuramadera Beach in South Andaman, relatively close to the Jarwa Reserve Forest, which is a protected area for the Indigenous Jarwa tribe. open image in gallery Map showing the location of Indias Andaman & Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal ( The Independent/Datawrapper ) We are getting more details about him and his intention to visit the reserved tribal area. We are also trying to find out where else he has visited during his stay in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. We are questioning the hotel staff where he was staying in Port Blair, the police told Press Trust of India. Mr Dhaliwal told AFP the American tourist landed briefly for about five minutes, left the offerings on the shore, collected sand samples, and recorded a video before returning to his boat. A review of his GoPro camera footage showed his entry and landing into the restricted North Sentinel Island. open image in gallery Sentinelese islanders on the Andaman Islands ( Christian Carron via Survival International ) A formal complaint has been registered against him under the Foreigners Act, 1946, and for entering a tribal reserve or restricted area without permission. Mr Polyakov was reportedly on his third trip to the islands after visiting twice last year. The police said they have informed the home ministry about his detention and that officials there were in touch with the US embassy. open image in gallery Polyakov poses with a gun on a visit to Afghanistan which he posted about last year ( Neo-Orientalist/YouTube ) Tribal lands are legally protected under the Andaman & Nicobar Islands (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, 1956, which prohibits unauthorised entry. In 2018, American missionary John Allen Chau, 27, was killed by the Sentinelese, an endangered tribe, after illegally trying to enter their territory to preach Christianity. He was allegedly killed after tribespeople shot him with arrows as his boat approached the island. In 2006, two Indian fishermen who accidentally drifted to the North Sentinel Island were killed by the Sentinelese tribe. When an Indian military helicopter later flew low over the island, tribal members fired arrows at it in a show of defiance. The navy has since enforced a buffer zone around the island, ensuring no outsiders come close. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Thai court has issued an arrest warrant for an American academic on charges of insulting the monarchy, a rare use of the country's "lese majeste" law against a foreigner. The army filed the charges, including violations of the computer crimes act, against Paul Chambers, a lecturer at Thailand's Naresuan University. The arrest warrant was issued on Monday according to the document seen by Reuters a letter sent by police to the university informing it of the move. Reuters verified its authenticity with a police source and Chambers' lawyer, Wannaphat Jenroumjit, from Thai Lawyers For Human Rights, who said Chambers would report to police in Phitsanulok, northern Thailand, on Tuesday. The police source said the charges related to an article that Chambers posted online last year. Wannaphat said she did not know the reason for the charges. open image in gallery Some foreigners have been jailed on lese majeste charges in the past, but the vast majority have been Thai ( Getty Images ) Thai police declined to comment, and the U.S. embassy did not have any immediate comment. A spokesperson for the Thai government did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Thailand has one of the world's harshest lese majeste laws, setting jail terms of up to 15 years for anyone convicted of defaming, insulting or threatening King Maha Vajiralongkorn and his close family. Since student protests began in 2020, calling for abolition of the law and for discussion that had been off-limits in the country for decades, 278 people have been charged under the law, according to data compiled by Thai Lawyers for Human Rights. Some foreigners have been jailed on lese majeste charges in the past, but the vast majority have been Thai. Veteran Bangkok-based human rights activist Phil Robertson, director of Asia Human Rights and Labour Advocates, called the move "an astonishing and outrageous assault on academic freedom that will have a serious chilling effect on international studies in Thailand". "The Thai government claims it wants to be a regional leader in education, but then it takes this kind of ill-advised step that will drive away international researchers and lecturers," he said. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Myanmars military ruler shook hands with world leaders and delegates as he was hosted by Thailand for a regional summit despite protests by rights groups that he was overseeing a bloody civil war in his country even when it was reeling from the impact of a devastating earthquake. Senior General Min Aung Hlaings military junta seized power after overthrowing the government of Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021. He had made a few trips outside Myanmar before, other than to Russia and China. Shunned by much of the West and isolated with sanctions, Gen Hlaing arrived in Bangkok for a three-day summit of the Bay of Bengal nations that include India and Thailand. Protesters raised banners declaring We Do Not Welcome Murderer Min Aung Hlaing near the hotel where the summit was taking place. His visit also drew condemnation from international rights forums and Myanmarese opposition groups. The National Unity Government, NUG, established by elected lawmakers barred from taking their seats in the parliament by the junta, condemned Gen Hlaings presence at the summit claiming he did not have the legitimacy to represent Myanmar. Allowing the junta leader and his representatives to participate in regional and international forums risks legitimising an illegal regime, the NUG said in a statement. open image in gallery Senior Gen Min Aung Hlaing, left, shakes hands with Thailand's prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok ( AP ) The Justice for Myanmar campaign group said it was deplorable that Thailand had invited him to a major summit. This legitimises and emboldens a military junta that the people of Myanmar have been resisting for over four years, Yadanar Maung, a spokesperson for the group, said in a statement. His visit came as the UN human rights office accused the junta of limiting crucial humanitarian aid in many areas devastated by last weeks earthquake. Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, said there was a catastrophic humanitarian situation in earthquake-hit areas, especially those outside the military's control. open image in gallery Buddhist monks clear up rubble at the damaged Thahtay Kyaung Monastery in Mandalay ( AFP via Getty ) The death toll from the 7.7-magnitude earthquake, one of the strongest to rock the country in a century, climbed to 3,145 on Friday, with more than 4,500 injured and nearly 200 still missing, the junta said. Many areas were still waiting for rescue teams to reach, suggesting the death toll was unlikely to be accurate. The general said he planned to discuss ways that other countries could help Myanmar with relief operations. On the sidelines of the summit, the general held meetings with Thailands premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, with recovery from the quake a common topic. open image in gallery Senior General Min Aung Hlaing speaks with Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on 4 April 2025 ( Narendra Modi on X via AP ) Mr Modi called for the ongoing three-week post-earthquake ceasefire in the country of 55 million people to be made permanent, an Indian foreign ministry spokesman said. "Political resolution to the conflict is the only way forward, starting with inclusive and credible elections," spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said in a post on X. On Thursday, as Gen Hlaing landed in Bangkok, his military launched multiple airstrikes in Kachin and Karenni states and Sagaing region, breaching the temporary ceasefire with rebel fighters, according to the Kachin Independence Army rebel group. The junta announced a ceasefire on Wednesday until 22 April with the condition that it would still undertake measures if rebel groups sought to damage communication lines, mobilise forces or take new territory. open image in gallery Senior Gen Min Aung Hlaing is greeted by Thai officials at the Bangkok airport ( AP ) The UNs human rights office said there had been nearly 60 attacks after the earthquake, including 16 since the temporary ceasefire was announced on Wednesday. "I urge a halt to all military operations and for the focus to be on assisting those impacted by the quake, as well as ensuring unhindered access to humanitarian organizations that are ready to support," High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said. "I hope this terrible tragedy can be a turning point for the country towards an inclusive political solution." The military was under pressure to declare a ceasefire after its decision to launch airstrikes within hours of the earthquake hitting drew widespread condemnation. It was also accused of impeding the flow of aid to the affected areas. open image in gallery Nepals KP Sharma Oli, India's Narendra Modi, Bangladeshs Muhammad Yunus, Thailand's Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Bhutan's Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing and Sri Lankas Harini Amarasuriya pose during the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on 4 April 2025 ( REUTERS ) Min Aung Hlaing is grandstanding with Asian leaders in Bangkok following a devastating earthquake because he does not care about Myanmars people, Elaine Pearson, Asia director for Human Rights Watch, said. What he cares about is garnering some legitimacy through high-level visits because ever since the February 2021 coup he has been rightly ostracised by most of the international community. The earthquake also caused destruction in Bangkok, the venue of the summit. At least 22 people died, 35 were injured and many trapped under a high-rise building that collapsed in the city. Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Last September, torrential rains tore through Nepals largest power plant, causing over $13m in damage. Six months later, the 456 MW Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Project once a symbol of national energy pride is still not fully operational, while power shortages have returned across much of the country. This is not an isolated failure. As floods, landslides and unpredictable rainfall become more frequent in the Himalayas, experts say Nepals clean energy transition almost entirely dependent on hydropower is dangerously exposed to the very climate risks it hopes to solve. Most people think about hydropower as the magic pill, says Raju Pandit Chhetri, a climate finance expert and member of the Least Developed Countries Financial Group. But relying on a single source is unsustainable in the face of increasing climate threats. Nepal has committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2045. But its energy strategy depends on a fragile foundation: the mountainous, disaster-prone country generates 90 per cent of its power from run-of-river hydroelectric projects, which rely on consistent rainfall and stable weather. These conditions are now disappearing. In the past three years alone, climate-related disasters, like flash floods and glacial lake bursts, have caused billions in losses to Nepals hydropower sector. In some years, droughts have slashed power generation by up to 40 per cent compared to forecasts. And without alternatives like solar or wind, theres no fallback. We need reservoir-based hydropower, pumped storage, and solar power to attain energy security, says Madhu Bhetwal, secretary at the Water and Energy Commission Secretariat. Reliance on a single source is risky. Nepals heavy dependence on hydropower isnt accidental. Like many small nations, the Himalayan country has few fossil fuel reserves and limited flat land for solar. But what it has plenty of is rivers. Decades of donor funding and cross-border electricity trade with neighbours, particularly India with which it shares many rivers, have made hydro the default clean energy choice for Nepal. But this narrow approach is now cracking. Of Nepals 3,243 MW installed capacity, just 90 MW comes from small hydro or solar projects. Meanwhile, traditional biomass mostly firewood and crop waste still supplies 65 per cent of the countrys energy needs. Fossil fuels account for another 25-27 per cent, while other renewables barely register. Even when electricity is produced, a lack of infrastructure means much of it goes to waste. In 2023, about 20 hydro projects lost more than $21m worth of electricity simply because there werent enough transmission lines to carry it. During monsoon months, more than 100 MW of electricity is regularly dumped. The problem isnt production, says Ganesh Karki, president of the Independent Power Producers Association of Nepal. Its distribution. Tamakoshi power plant, Nepals largest, is still not fully operational ( Mukesh Pokhrel ) Critical high-voltage lines, like the Hetauda-Dhalkewar-Duhabi corridor, have been delayed for years due to land disputes and forest clearance issues. The Dhalkewar-Pathlaiya upgrade has been stalled for over two years due to local opposition in Sarlahi. It takes five years just to get permission to cut trees, says Nepal Electricity Authority official Chandan Kumar Ghosh. Unless these short-term issues are resolved, our long-term climate goals are just slogans. Nepals Energy Development Roadmap estimates the country will need $75.7bn in infrastructure investments by 2035 just to keep pace with rising electricity demand. So far, less than a third has been mobilised. Today, per capita electricity consumption in Nepal is just 400 kWh, among the lowest in South Asia. The government wants to raise that to 1,500 kWh by 2030 while reducing reliance on firewood and imported fuels. But the scale of transformation required is immense. Substituting imported biomass with locally produced renewable energy will not only reduce emissions but also make Nepals economy more resilient, says Chhetri. Nepal has signed power purchase agreements for over 10,000 MW of new projects, with a target of 25,000 MW installed capacity by 2035. Yet if transmission lines and disaster resilience dont keep pace, the country risks generating more stranded power. Nepals energy dilemma is not unique. Around the world, low-income countries are being asked to lead clean energy transitions while facing the harshest climate impacts and thinnest financial margins. Like Ethiopia, Malawi or parts of the Philippines, Nepal has high renewable potential but low grid reliability, underfunded institutions, and a growing infrastructure gap. To reduce pollution and improve health outcomes, we need to increase electricity use especially clean electricity, says climate analyst Manjeet Dhakal. That means upgrading home wiring, rural distribution, and building grid flexibility. The countrys plans are ambitious. By 2045, it hopes to phase out biomass and reach net-zero emissions. Indian-backed projects already account for over 3,600 MW of planned capacity. But achieving this future will require better coordination, climate-proof infrastructure, and diversified generation including solar, wind, and reservoir-based hydropower. Private investors are ready, says Karki. But they need policy clarity and timely government action, especially around land and forest approvals for transmission lines. For now, Nepal is stuck in transition producing more energy than ever, but unable to deliver it consistently or protect it from disaster. The window for course correction is still open, but it is narrowing. Experts say a national rethink is needed: one that views energy not just as production, but as a system, from forest clearance policies and local consultations to resilience planning and clean cooking access. Climate change is no longer a future risk for Nepals energy system, says Chhetri. Its already here. As the world looks to the Global South to deliver on climate targets, Nepals struggle is a reminder: no country can power a clean future without first fixing whats broken. Close Starmer vows UK won't be cowed by Trump's tariffs For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trump has confirmed that the US will not be pausing tariffs, stressing that they were not looking at that. The president said many countries have been negotiating with Washington and they will try and make "fair deals" with each of them. It comes as Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to eliminate the trade deficit with the U.S, while Trump also accused the EU of being formed to create a unified force against the United States for trade. Londons FTSE 100 stock index plunged a further 4.3 per cent on Monday to a value last seen in March 2024, as Donald Trumps tariffs continue to wreak havoc on the global markets. After the US president announced his sweeping tariffs last week, Wall Street sank again, with the S&P 500 briefly approaching bear market territory on Monday, coming off its worst week since Covid-19 began crashing the global economy in March 2020. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 2.3 per cent, and the Nasdaq composite 1.5 per cent lower. The continued volatility came as Mr Trump threatened China with a further tariff of 50 per cent and said all talks with China concerning their requested meetings with us will be terminated unless Beijing withdraws its planned 34 per cent retaliatory levy. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The government has insisted Britains food standards would not be compromised after the UK and the US agreed on a trade deal to eliminate a series of tariffs. Agriculture is a key part of the new trade deal announced on Thursday by Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Trump. Tariffs have been reduced on US products, including beef and ethanol, in return for moves that help British cars and steel. After the deal was announced, government sources insisted imports of hormone-treated beef or chlorinated chicken, previously described as red lines for the UK in any agreement, would remain illegal. The agreement on beef provides a tariff-free quota for 13,000 tonnes of US exports, but the government said there would be no drop in food standards as a result of the deal. It also includes access to British beef exports to the US. Chlorine-washed chicken a controversial method of cleaning farmed animals to kill bacteria was a major product being touted as part of the deal. While evidence suggests the chlorine wash itself is not harmful, critics argue treating chicken with the chemical will allow for poorer hygiene earlier on in the production process. However, Liz Webster, founder of Save British Farming, told The Independent: The British public is rightly appalled by chlorinated chicken and hormone-fed beef. We are an animal-loving nation that values high standards, and we must not trade them away. Packs of Brexit Selection Freshly Chlorinated Chicken sit on display at Costupper Brexit Minimart pop-up store, set up by the Peoples Vote campaign group, in November 2018 ( Getty ) But what exactly does the evidence on chlorine-washed chicken show? What is chlorinated chicken? Chlorinated chicken or chlorine-washed chicken refers to chicken carcasses that have been washed or dipped in water containing chlorine dioxide. This is done to kill organisms that could make you ill, such as E coli, campylobacter and Salmonella. Is it bad for me? If you ate a large amount of chlorinated chicken the equivalent to 5 per cent of your body weight in one day you could potentially be exposed to harmful levels of the chemical compound known as chlorate, according to the European Commission. Long-term exposure to chlorate in food, particularly in drinking water, is a potential health concern for children, especially those with mild or moderate iodine deficiency, according to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). A high intake of chlorate on a single day could be toxic for humans as it can limit the bloods ability to absorb oxygen, leading to kidney failure, while chronic exposure to chlorate can inhibit iodine uptake. However, there is no proof that eating chlorinated chicken would put health at risk. The EFSA has said that chemical substances in poultry meat are unlikely to pose an immediate or acute health risk for consumers. Is it cleaner than non-chlorinated chicken? A 2014 report by US non-profit Consumer Reports found that 97 per cent of 300 American chicken breasts tested contained harmful bacteria including Salmonella, campylobacter and E.Coli. Around half of the chicken breasts tested also contained at least one type of bacteria that was resistant to three or more antibiotics. In general, you are over seven times more likely to get food poisoning in the US than in the UK, according to data from the UKs Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Moreover, a 2018 study from the University of Southampton found chlorine-washing was not totally effective in killing pathogens on fresh vegetables. The research also suggested that chlorinating foods "can make foodborne pathogens undetectable", rather than eliminating them. Why arent British farmers allowed to use this technique? Chlorinated chicken was first banned by the EU in 1997. The EU stipulates that chicken can only be washed in water or substances explicitly approved by the European Commission. Those who are against chlorine washing claim that, rather than the chlorine itself being the problem, its what the chlorine is hiding. Treating the carcasses this way can enable lower standards of hygiene and animal welfare farmers can rely on chemicals to kill off harmful bacteria at the end of the process, rather than maintaining high standards at every stage. However, Ken Isley from the US Department of Agriculture, said: I think the concerns and fear are unfounded. I would stack US food safety and our food safety record against anywhere in the world. How can I tell if chicken has been chlorinated? In the US, chickens are not labelled as having been washed in chlorine. Some of those lobbying for the UK to accept US imports of chlorine-washed chicken have argued that it should be up to consumers to decide, as long as its clearly labelled. However, according to Sustain, an organisation that campaigns for better food and farming, there is currently no requirement for food producers to inform UK consumers about whether or not chlorine was used, neither are restaurants nor caterers required to say where their meat is from. Unless the limitations of current UK food labelling legislation are addressed, it is hard to see how British consumers would know whether their chicken had been treated with chlorinated water. The US also regards specific labelling of country of origin as an illegitimate barrier to its exports and pushes to have the practice banned as part of trade agreements it signs with other countries. Is chlorinated chicken part of a trade deal with the US? Chlorinated chicken was not included in the trade deal announced by Sir Keir and Mr Trump on Thursday. Farming leaders welcomed the governments efforts to maintain high standards and secure reciprocal access for beef but raised concerns about the inclusion of bioethanol, a fuel made from crops, in the deal. According to the most recent significant polling on the subject, which was carried out in 2020, 80 per cent of the British public are against allowing imports of chlorinated chicken, and the same percentage are against permitting chicken products that have been raised with hormones. Following pressure from the British public, former prime ministers Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak were compelled to rule out compromises on hormone-fed beef and chlorinated chicken in future trade deal negotiations with the US. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Scientists have developed a 3D-printed imitation of human skin with living cells, an advance they say could enable cosmetic testing without the use of animals. Researchers, including from the Vellore Institute of Technology in India, say the skin imitation mimics the natural three-layer tissue structure of human skin and is ready for testing cosmetic nanoparticles. Their study, published in the journal STAR Protocols, comes amid restrictions imposed in the European Union on the animal testing of cosmetics and their ingredients. open image in gallery A zootechnician holds a laboratory mouse at the University of Geneva ( AFP via Getty ) Scientists worldwide are looking for alternatives to test the absorption and toxicity of cosmetics like sun creams and serums. The latest research provides a protocol for fabricating scaffolds similar to human skin using 3D printing. The process is simple, cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and allows customisation by adjusting treatment parameters, scientists write in the study. The starting point for making these skin imitations is a hydrogel formulation, printed together with living cells, researchers say. open image in gallery 3D-printed hydrogel ( Manisha Sonthalia/Vellore Institute of Technology ) These gels, with their high-water content, create an ideal condition for the growth of cells. The hydrogels for our skin imitation from the 3D printer have to fulfil a number of requirements, Karin Stana Kleinschek, one of the new studys authors from TU Graz in Austria, said. The hydrogels must be able to interact with living skin cells. These cells not only have to survive but also have to be able to grow and multiply. open image in gallery 3D printed skin imitation ( Manisha Sonthalia/Vellore Institute of Technology ) The cells growing on the hydrogel also need to be stabilised without the use of toxic chemicals. Only when skin cells in the hydrogel survive in cell culture for two to three weeks and develop skin tissue can we speak of a skin imitation, researchers explain. This skin imitation can then be used for further cell tests on cosmetics. Beagle owners hope to educate on animal testing Scientists claim their first tests with the 3D-printed skin cells were very successful. This is a success for the complementary research at TU Graz and VIT. Our many years of expertise in the field of material research for tissue imitations and VITs expertise in molecular and cell biology have complemented each other perfectly, they write. We are now working together to further optimise the hydrogel formulations and validate their usefulness as a substitute for animal experiments, Dr Kleinschek said. Researchers say the new protocol also offers a method to develop sustainable biomaterials for tissue regeneration medicines. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An anti-abortion campaigner has been found guilty of breaching an abortion clinic buffer zone in Bournemouth in a trial being monitored by Trump officials. Livia Tossici-Bolt, 64, was accused of breaching a Public Spaces Protection Order outside the Dorset clinic on two days in March 2023 by holding a sign saying: Here to talk, if you want. Senior US officials took the extraordinary step of weighing in to a row over her prosecution, warning: We are concerned about freedom of expression in the United Kingdom. A bureau within the US Department of State said it was closely monitoring the case and reports claimed the issue had even entered UK and US trade negotiations, although business secretary Jonathan Reynolds insisted that free speech had not been part of tariff negotiations with the US. On Friday she was convicted at Poole Magistrates Court of two charges of breaching the protection order and sentenced to a conditional discharge for two years. She was ordered to pay 20,000 towards court costs and a 26 victim surcharge. District Judge Orla Austin said that Tossici-Bolt had deeply held beliefs but her rights of freedom of expression under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) had to be balanced against the rights of the women attending the clinic and its staff. She said: I accept that the defendant engaged in the conduct underlying this case as part of a sincerely motivated desire to attend that location and display her signage outside the clinic, encouraging conversation in relation to matters of particular importance to her. This does not mean that her conviction for failing to leave the area when required would be disproportionate, nor give rise to a reasonable excuse on the facts of this case. She added the defendant lacks insight that her presence could have a detrimental effect on the women attending the clinic, their associates, staff and members of the public. open image in gallery Dr Livia Tossici-Bolt arriving at Poole Magistrates Court ( Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire ) Rosalind Comyn, defending, said there was no evidence that Tossici-Bolt was observed by any service user or any harm was caused by her behaviour. After the hearing, Tossici-Bolt claimed it was a dark day for Great Britain and vowed to continue fighting for freedom of speech. I was not protesting and did not harass or obstruct anyone, she said. All I did was offer consensual conversation in a public place, as is my basic right, and yet the court found me guilty. Freedom of expression is in a state of crisis in the UK. What has happened to this country? The US State Department was right to be concerned by this case as it has serious implications for the entire Western world. However, the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (Bpas) said the case was never about global politics but instead women being able to access legal healthcare without harassment. Bpass chief executive, Heidi Stewart, said: The clinic in Bournemouth has been subjected to decades of anti-abortion protests, which resulted in more than 500 reports of harassment before this local safe access zone was brought into force. This case was never about global politics but about the simple ability of women to access legal healthcare free from harassment. It is up to the police and judicial system to determine whether individuals have broken the law. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, which brought the prosecution under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, welcomed the conviction. A spokesperson said that the buffer zone was enacted in 2022 so patients and staff can access the clinic without fear of intimidation. A trial last month heard the campaigner refused to pay a fixed penalty notice after she was charged with infringing the protection order, claiming she was entitled to offer consensual conversations under the Human Rights Act. In a statement posted on X this week, the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, & Labour (DRL) said: US-UK relations share a mutual respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. However, as Vice President Vance has said, we are concerned about freedom of expression in the United Kingdom. While recently in the UK, DRL senior adviser Sam Samson met with Livia Tossici-Bolt, who faces criminal charges for offering conversation within a legally prohibited buffer zone at an abortion clinic. We are monitoring her case. It is important that the UK respect and protect freedom of expression. Lord Sumption, a former top judge in the UKs Supreme Court, accused the Trump administration of unjustifiable interference over the comments. Tossici-Bolt welcomed the US intervention and claimed her prosecution was an extreme example of censorship, adding: Great Britain is supposed to be a free country, yet Ive been dragged through court merely for offering consensual conversation. Im thankful to ADF International for supporting my legal defence. Peaceful expression is a fundamental right no-one should be criminalised for harmless offers to converse. open image in gallery A verdict was handed down at Poole Magistrates Court ( PA Archive ) The pro-life campaigner added: It deeply saddens me that the UK is seen as an international embarrassment when it comes to free speech. My case, involving only a mere invitation to speak, is but one example of the extreme and undeniable state of censorship in Great Britain today. Lorcan Price, legal counsel for freedom of speech campaign group ADF International, which is supporting Tossici-Bolt, said: We are used to seeing this kind of diplomacy happen with countries that have authoritarian and dictatorial regimes. It is sobering to realise the censorship crisis in the UK has become so extreme that it is now necessary here too. Livias criminal prosecution for merely offering consensual conversation highlights in a particular way that free speech is now becoming a major point of contention between the US and UK. If the UK continues to abandon free speech, its now clear there will be no special relationship. We are grateful to the US for engaging in diplomacy to promote the fundamental right of freedom of expression in this country. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A mother who suffocated her newborn baby and dumped his body in a bin bag in a woodland in a secret she kept for 25 years has avoided jail. A judge has called for compassion for Joanne Sharkey, who pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility over the death of the baby boy, named Callum by police investigating his death in 1998. His body was found by a dog walker close to Gullivers World theme park in Warrington, Cheshire, on 14 March 1998. The 55-year-old, aged 28 at the time of her newborns death, was only traced more than two decades later, through DNA checks after the arrest of her other son. She was initially arrested for murder but later admitted she killed the baby while suffering from postnatal depression after the birth of her first son in 1996. A court heard Sharkey kept her pregnancy a secret, even from her husband, and when the baby was born in the bathroom of her house in Croxteth, Liverpool, she heard him starting to make a noise and covered his nose and mouth to make him quiet. open image in gallery Joanne Sharkey admitted responsibility over the death of the baby boy (Peter Byrne/PA) ( PA Wire ) The mother described her arrest in 2023 as a relief, telling detectives: Its not easy to live with all that time. I thought this would happen, you dont get away with anything forever. On Friday, Sharkey sat shaking with emotion and wiping away tears as she was given a two-year suspended prison sentence at Liverpool Crown Court. The defendants family in the public gallery broke down in tears and exchanged hugs. Passing sentence, Mrs Justice Eady told Sharkey she accepted her mental state at the time had substantially impaired your ability to form rational judgments and since then had been haunted by what she had done. In deciding against an immediate custodial sentence for the defendant, the judge concluded: Im clear you suffered a lengthy postnatal depression. The events that bring us to this court are both terrible and tragic. Nothing I can do or say can turn the clock back to resolve the tragedy of this case. open image in gallery The coffin of abandoned baby Callum during his funeral service in 1998 ( PA Wire ) You lived isolated with this terrible and tragic knowledge. You had carried this with you the whole time, thinking about it every day. Im satisfied your offending was not planned or premeditated. Im satisfied that this very sad case calls for compassion. No useful purpose would be achieved by immediate imprisonment. Sharkey was given a two-year prison sentence for manslaughter and six months for the offence of concealment of the birth of a child, to run concurrent and both suspended for two years. open image in gallery The approach road to Gullivers World theme park in the Callands area of Warrington, where baby Callum was discovered in March 1998 ( PA ) Prosecution barrister Jonas Hankin KC told an earlier hearing that psychiatrists agreed Sharkey was fearful of becoming a mother to another child and developed a depressive illness that substantially impaired [her] ability to form rational judgment and exercise self-control. Sharkey, a housing benefit officer at West Lancashire Council when Callum was born, also found the combination of a full-time job and motherhood challenging. On 12 March 1998, a man saw a young woman walking quickly out of the woods who looked upset. The man walked into the woods near Gullivers World and saw a black bin bag lying on the ground to the left of the track but did not touch it. Two days later a dog walker saw the same bag, was curious about what was inside and punctured it with a stick to find the body of an infant inside. The baby, who was given the name Callum after the Callands district of Warrington in which his body had been discovered, was taken to Warrington General Hospital, where a pathologist found him to be a normally developed, full-term infant with no structural abnormality or natural disease. open image in gallery Mrs Justice Eady during a live broadcast from Liverpool Crown Court, sentencing Joanne Sharkey ( PA Wire ) He found a number of bruises over the infants face, head and neck, and wads of tissue in his mouth. DNA profiles from the tissue paper and blood staining on the bin bag were taken and stored on a national database. Police made checks with hospitals, general practice surgeries, midwives and other medical facilities, conducted house-to-house visits and made inquiries at shops, pubs and three local schools. It was not until 2023, during a periodic review of the national database, that the DNA profile of Matthew Sharkey, Joanne Sharkeys first child, whose DNA had by that time been uploaded to the national DNA database because he had been arrested for an unrelated offence, was found to be a close match to that of the infant. open image in gallery Joanne Sharkey appearing in the dock at Warrington Magistrates' Court last year ( PA ) The court heard DNA samples were taken from Joanne and Neil Sharkey, who were identified as the biological parents, and Sharkey was arrested for murder in July 2023, telling officers her husband knows nothing about it. While they were in the back of a police car prior to being interviewed, a covert recording was made of a conversation between them during which Sharkey was heard to say Im not gonna f****** deny nothing, it is what it is, isnt it. I f****** did it. She later told police she kept her pregnancy a secret by wearing bigger clothes and keeping everyone at arms length. Sharkey told officers the labour, which she thought had happened in the bathroom, was easy and quick and she was the only person in the house at the time. open image in gallery Joanne Sharkey (right) arrives at Liverpool Crown Court for sentencing on Friday ( Peter Byrne/PA ) She told police: I sort of reached down. I must have been on the floor at this point. Ive covered his nose, his mouth. It just couldnt make that noise, just to be quiet. Sharkey replied no comment when asked about the wads of tissue and bruising to the babys head and neck. She then drove to Warrington to dispose of the child. Later she told detectives: Its haunting, something you think about every day. You try and push it out but it creeps back in. open image in gallery The funeral procession of abandoned baby Callum during his funeral service at St Elphin's parish church, Warrington, in 1998 ( Richard Williams/Liverpool Daily Post/PA Wire ) The court heard two doctors gave the babys medical cause of death as unascertained and could not determine whether he had been alive when the tissue was put in his mouth. Following the sentencing, Detective Inspector Hannah Friend, said: I would again like to thank the officers and staff involved throughout this investigation, whether this was back in 1998, or more recently, whose dedication meant someone was brought before the courts to be held accountable for a babys untimely death. While the sentencing hearing today marks the end of these proceedings, we will continue to remember Callum, as will all those who have been affected by this tragic case. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A British influencer fighting for her life in a Seoul hospital after being found unconscious in her apartment has had a heartbreaking health setback, and is now on a ventilator. Ashley Surcombe, 29, was discovered severely dehydrated on her bathroom floor in March. She has been travelling back and forth between the UK and South Korea for years and was providing travel content for a Korean company. The circumstances surrounding her collapse remain unclear. Ashleys mother Karen, who lives in Worcestershire, said her daughter was put in the intensive care unit, where she remained until March 31. She was then placed on a general ward, which Karen said was a huge relief. However, she was moved back to the ICU on Wednesday when her lung collapsed after she developed severe pneumonia. open image in gallery Ashley Surcombe was found severely dehydrated, lying on the floor of her bathroom in her apartment in Seoul on March 24 Ashley is now on a ventilator. Her sister Kat Surcombe said there had been positive signs in her treatment. Her lung has been re-inflated and doctors had removed a significant amount of mucus. The doctors have advised that she will remain there for the rest of the week. Kat said hearing the news her younger sister was back in the ICU was both frustrating and heartbreaking. I know shes in good hands and I have no doubt that shes fighting with everything she has to come home. But the truth is, I miss her desperately. I just want to hug her and tell her shes not alone, Kat added. Im very protective of my family, and not being able to be by Ashleys side during what must be the most terrifying experience of her life has been one of the most difficult things Ive ever faced. Ive sobbed from the deepest parts of myself, which might sound dramatic, but almost losing my sister was soul-shattering. open image in gallery Ashley Surcombe's family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with hospital costs Karen said her husband Nigel, 64, arrived in Seoul close to midnight on March 25 to support his daughter. Hes managing ok but there is a language barrier, but the doctors have been good at explaining what is going on, she added. The first week there, she had a platelet transfusion because her white blood cells were very low. They have done an X-ray on her and she does have pneumonia and she had an MRI scan and she did have a small bleed on the brain. Ashleys family paid an admission fee to have her admitted to hospital, with her mother not sure of how many more costs will be accrued while her daughter waits until she can safely fly back home. What the medical costs moving forward are, we still dont know as Nigel is waiting for an update, Karen said. Its not something that was important to us as our priority is to get Ashley home but she needs to be cleared fit to fly by doctors, and that could be another two weeks minimum. The family has set up a GoFundMe to help with costs, with more than 30 per cent of the 50,000 target being raised so far. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice As benefit rates go up for millions in April, many will be looking instead to the coming changes to health and disability welfare announced by Labour just a few weeks ago. Scaling back some of the key health-related entitlements in the UK, these changes will affect those claiming the personal independence payment (PIP) and the health element of Universal Credit the most. Analysis by The Independent recently found around 5 million people are claiming PIP or its predecessor the Disability Living Allowance. Meanwhile, 3.9 million people are claiming the health element of Universal Credit, or its predecessor Employment Support Allowance. There is likely to be a large margin of overlap between these groups, as people can claim both. Research by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) has now shown the areas that are most likely to be affected by the changes, revealing which regions claim the highest proportion of health-related benefits. The area with the highest proportion of people claiming health-related benefits is Liverpool Walton, at 20.3 per cent of the working age population (equalling 13,465 people). Nearby, Birkenhead (18.8 per cent), Knowsley (18.3) and Bootle (18.2) are also in the top ten. Other northern areas like Blackpool South and Easington, County Durham also have a high proportion. This is alongside a group of regions in South Wales including Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney, Aberafan Maesteg, and Rhondda and Ogmore. Across England and Wales, the average proportion of people claiming the two main health-related benefits is 9.4 per cent. From April 2026, these claimants will see the health element of Universal Credit frozen at 97 per week, whilst going down to just 47 per week for new claimants. Six months later, in November, the changes to PIP will come into effect. These will increase the amount of points a claimant needs at assessment, effectively making it harder to qualify for. Work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall ( AP ) Announcing the changes, work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall said: Under this Government, the social security system will always be there for people in genuine need. That is a principle we will never compromise on. But disabled people and people with health conditions who can work should have the same rights, choices and chances to work as everybody else. That principle of equality is vital too. The cuts which amount to 4.8 billion continue to receive criticism from charities and campaigners in the weeks since they were announced. A coalitions of over 100 leading charities called them immoral and devastating. The governments own assessment of the changes show that they will put 250,000 additional people into poverty, including 50,000 children. Recent polling may also indicate that Labours decision to reduce spending on health-related welfare is out of step with the views of voters. A survey by think tank More In Common in association with JRF recently found that 58 per cent of people think the cuts are a bad idea, compared to just 32 per cent who think they are good. Commenting on the findings, JRF principal policy adviser Katie Schmuecker said: It's little surprise that people think these deep cuts to disability benefits are a bad idea. The public wants a social security system that is there for them when they need it, and that includes being sick or disabled. The impact of these cuts will be concentrated in former industrial and coastal places - in some constituencies up to one in five working age adults are supported by these benefits. MPs must understand many of their constituents are already going without the essentials on a routine basis. These cuts will drive many more people deeper into poverty than will be helped into jobs by the Government's increased employment support. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice More than a million cars sold in the UK each year are too big for normal parking spaces, new research has revealed. And the numbers are only rising, meaning that new cars are increasingly outgrowing cities and towns, according to Clean Cities. The campaign network found that 4.6million cars have been sold in the country since 2021 that are larger than an average urban parking space. The trend for big cars is also concerning because they are more deadly in crashes due to their weight and tall front ends that can trap people underneath as well as because of the greater quantities of toxic gases they pump into the air. UK head of Clean Cities, Oliver Lord, told The Guardian: Cars are getting bigger every year while our streets are not. We need carmakers to prioritise normal-sized cars that can be parked more easily and are less dangerous to people walking around. Its only fair if you want to buy a massive SUV [sports utility vehicle] that you should expect to pay more for the space it takes up. Large SUVs which are over 1.8 metres wide or 4.8 metres long are too large for most parking spaces, create more potholes, and can be more dangerous for the public, yet they are becoming evermore popular, with a record 1,213,385 cars that were wider than 1.8 metres sold in 2024. With some cities already cracking down on the vehicles, the campaigners from Clean Cities have issued calls for more charges to be imposed on SUVs in light of the damage they cause to roads and environments as well as the extra space they take up. Green party peer Jenny Jones, who launched a cross-party anti-SUV alliance last week, said: Sales of SUVs have leapt up in the last two decades, yet many urban streets and car parking bays are simply too small to accommodate the increasing girth of these vehicles. I like what Paris has done to discourage their use, by charging the largest cars as much as three times more to park. In the UK, Bath and Islington councils have introduced similar measures. The government should encourage other councils to replicate these efforts. SUVs pollute and are often owned and driven by wealthier citizens at the expense of those in less wealthy areas. They feel safer to drive, but are much less safe for any pedestrians and cyclists they collide with. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A group of London tenants who have been awarded a record 263,000 in rent repayments from their rogue landlord have raised fears they may never receive the money. Diane Abbott warned John Christodoulou, one of the UKs richest men, must not be allowed to get away with it again after current and former residents of Olympic House and Simpson House in Hackney were awarded the six-figure sum by a legal tribunal following a five-year battle, due to unsafe conditions. The claimants successfully challenged Mr Christodoulou's companies for operating unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), which meant the buildings were not subject to the safety and quality standards required by law, leaving residents vulnerable to hazardous conditions. Jordan Osserman, 36, is among the 46 tenants from 15 different flats across both buildings who said they launched the case in 2020 after Mr Christodoulous letting agency, Tower Quay, told tenants that they could not have a rent reduction during the Covid pandemic as they could use money saved on lunches. The claimants have now won what is one of the largest groups of rent repayment order cases in London's history, but they fear they face an ongoing fight given Mr Christodoulou has previously failed to refund them, with a judge suggesting the landlord has engaged in tactics to delay rent repayments. open image in gallery Jordan Osserman (second from right) and his partner Marc Sutton (right) helped to organise the legal action via the tenants group Somerford Grove Renters (SGR) ( Daniel Elam ) Mr Osserman, a university lecturer, told The Independent: I have mixed emotions. Im elated after all these years we finally won this case, likely the biggest single rent repayment order case in British history. I think weve made a powerful statement that by collectively organising we change the housing system and hold landlords to account, even billionaires like Christodoulou. But Im also furious about Christodoulous attempts to dodge paying us, forcing us to spend all this time, effort and money to make him pay up. Clearly theres one set of rules for ordinary people we fear what will happen if were even a month late on rent or mortgage payments and another for billionaires. open image in gallery Olympic House, Simpson House and St Johns Court in Hackney are all majority-owned by John Christodoulou ( Somerford Grove Renters ) Diane Abbott, Labour MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington, said: My constituents have been battling this landlord over unfit housing for years. Worse, when he loses a case, he shuffles assets between his companies so that he can avoid paying money he owes. He must not be allowed to get away with it again. Mr Christodoulou, who is Cyprus-born and based in Monaco, is the 70th richest man in the UK, according to last years Sunday Times Rich List, moving up four places since the previous year as he made another 50million as a result of his property company Yianis Group taking the 59-year-olds total wealth to 2.5billion in 2024. The Independent has approached him via Yianis for comment as well as Tower Quay. Mr Osserman and his partner Marc Sutton, 46, who are former residents of the 170-flat blocks, helped to organise the legal action via the tenants group Somerford Grove Renters (SGR), which is part of the London Renters Union (LRU), for Olympic House, Simpson House and St Johns Court, all majority-owned by Mr Christodoulou. open image in gallery The case was launched in 2020 by 46 residents (Mr Osserman pictured centre left, Mr Sutton centre right) from 15 different flats across the two 170-flat blocks ( Foivos Dousos ) Mr Sutton, a website developer, said: The landlord collects the rent and does the minimum knowing that tenants will often move on in a year or two without anything being done. They raise the rent on every flat every year and, with 171 flats, have been a large driver of spiralling rents in Hackney, causing a housing crisis forcing out families. Judge Robert Latham ruled on 3 March: The respondent can only be characterised as a rogue landlord. According to the LRU, the combined total that the legal tribunal awarded the claimants came to 263,555.68 in Rent Repayment Orders (RROs), which force landlords who have broken housing standards law to pay back rent. open image in gallery The claimants successfully challenged Mr Christodoulou's companies for operating unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) ( Somerford Grove Renters ) But last month, the tenants said they discovered that the company they were paying rent to has now been liquidated, with ownership of Olympic House and Simpson House now transferred to another company within Mr Christodoulous group. Mr Osserman was one of the claimants whose case was heard first, with the view that it would be used as a basis for the others, and they were awarded 65 per cent of a years rent, which came to 18,400, in June 2021. Mr Christodoulous lawyers appealed the decision, but they then withdrew from the case shortly before the hearing and did not attend. The judge concluded: A party who does so at a late stage without any explanation is at risk of being taken never to have been serious about pursuing the appeal and to have done so simply to delay the enforcement of the FTTs order for repayment. Martin Rodger QC also found that the landlords business practices involved a systematic or institutional neglect of regulatory requirements and increased the amount awarded to the tenants to 80 per cent of a years rent, which came to 22,500. open image in gallery Mr Sutton (right) said his partner never received the refund ( Marc Sutton ) Mr Sutton said his partner never received the refund. He said: I'm deeply frustrated by Christodoulou's evasive tactics ... There's clearly a double standard: ordinary people live in fear of missing a single month's rent or mortgage payment, while billionaires seem to operate under an entirely different set of rules. In a direct message, he said: Mr Christodoulou, enough is enough. The law has spoken. Your properties were unlicensed, and you must return our money. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Animal rights charity Peta has launched a campaign calling for bakery Gails to drop its discriminatory extra charges on plant-based milk. It claims the surcharge is unfair for customers who are lactose intolerant or who are opting to drink plant milk for ethical reasons. The upmarket bakery charges 40p to 60p extra for alternatives to cow's milk such as soya, oat, almond and coconut milk. One in three Britons now drink plant-based milk and one in 10 UK adults are also lactose intolerant, but many cafes charge extra for milk alternatives. Peta claimed on its website that Gails is falling behind industry standards and added that customers should not have to pay more to make animal-friendly and sustainable choices. open image in gallery One in three Britons drink cows milk alternatives such as soya, oat, almond and coconut milk ( iStock ) It added that cows milk should be more expensive to accurately reflect the true cost to animals and the planet. Peta added that it is concerned the extra cost could deter customers from choosing plant-based milk over cows milk and urged the bakery to make the milks the same price. The charity explained that in the dairy industry, calves are taken from their mothers so that milk can be produced and sold. It added that the dairy industry contributes to the climate crisis because emissions from farming cows are the primary source of the greenhouse gas methane, which like carbon dioxide, warms the atmosphere. GAILs is milking customers who care about animals and the planet by offering a discount on re-useable cups but still charging extra for plant milk, Peta Vice President of Vegan Projects Dawn Carr said. Dairy milk is an environmental disaster, cruel to cows, and bad for human health. Were calling on the company to ditch the upcharge and encourage all conscious coffee drinkers to join PETAs campaign. Pret a Manger stopped charging extra for plant-based milks in the UK in 2020 after calls from animal rights advocates. Starbucks has also not charged extra for vegan milks since 2022 and there is also no extra cost at Leon and Joe and the Juice for dairy-free alternatives. At Costa Coffee and Cafe Nero soya milk is free, but oat and coconut milk are an additional 45p at both cafes. There is also an ultimate blend plant-based milk alternative at Costa which costs 35p. Peta has also called for these charges to be dropped. Gails has been contacted for a comment. The bakery has faced backlash for its expansion plans. It first opened in Hampstead, north-west London, in 2005, but since 170 branches have opened across the UK. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Sir Keir Starmer is very happy about Britains treatment by the US on tariffs, Donald Trump has insisted, despite slapping the UK with a 10 per cent reciprocal levy on Wednesday. We have a very good dialogue. I think he was very happy about how we treated them with tariffs, the president claimed while speaking to reporters on board Air Force 1. Mr Trump also said: I think it's going very well, adding that the markets are going to boom. But just hours later, UK foreign secretary David Lammy said he regrets Americas return to protectionism, warning that people across the country are very concerned about how the move to slap import taxes on goods would hit their own finances. It comes after global markets tumbled and British ministers began preparing for retaliatory action as a result of the sweeping global tariffs unveiled by the US president on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the chancellors fiscal headroom risks being wiped out as a result of the levy. The FTSE 100 fell to a three-month low on Thursday after the news that UK exports to the US would face a blanket 10 per cent tariff, while business secretary Jonathan Reynolds on Thursday said ministers will look at taking possible retaliatory action. open image in gallery Trump claimed Starmer is very happy about the 10 per cent tariff ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Although the prime minister has appealed for calm, UK officials are now working through 417 pages of products they could target in a list that includes everything from bourbon whiskey to motorbikes. Treasury minister James Murray said the UK was disappointed that Donald Trump decided to impose tariffs, when asked if the US president was right to say Britain was very happy with its treatment. He said the UK was in a better position than other countries because it is on the lowest band of tariffs but would keep all options on the table. The prime minister set out his reaction yesterday when he met businesses, Mr Murray told Times Radio when asked whether Mr Trump was right. Were disappointed at tariffs being imposed globally. Asked whether it was time for the UK to stand up to Mr Trump, UK foreign secretary David Lammy told reporters: We are a nation that believes in open trade, and I regret the return to protectionism in the United States, something that weve not seen for nearly a century. Speaking after a meeting with Nato counterparts in Brussels, he added: We have been absolutely clear that all options are on the table as we ensure the national interests of the British people, who will be very concerned at this time about how this affects the bottom line for them and their economic welfare. We will put their national interest first, and its in their national interests to be negotiating with the United States an economic agreement at this time, but keeping all options on the table. Despite the UK being assigned the lowest tariff rate by Mr Trump, economists stressed that Britain still faced a significant impact, while the prime minister acknowledged there will be an economic impact. Experts predicted that UK economic growth already expected to amount to just 1 per cent this year could be up to 0.5 percentage points lower than expected over coming years as a result of the tariffs. Last week, the Office for Budget Responsibility warned that Ms Reevess headroom against her debt target would be at serious risk if tariffs were imposed. If this proves to be correct, the chancellor will face the prospect of imposing more spending cuts or tax rises if she does not change her fiscal rules. open image in gallery Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (Jonathan Brady/PA) ( PA Wire ) Speaking at the launch of his local government campaign in Chesterfield, Sir Keir said the world is at the beginning of a new economic era. We have to act and lead differently, the prime minister said, describing the response to President Trumps tariffs as not just a short-term tactical exercise. Asked by The Independent whether he could rule out further benefit cuts to fill any hole in the public finances left by Mr Trumps trade war, the prime minister said the Budget was a long way away. He said: Theres a lot of water that will have to go under the bridge before then. Obviously, my job, our job, the governments job, is to take the steps necessary in our national interest, which is why were focusing on progressing the deal that weve been discussing with the US, making sure that we are in a position to take other measures, should they be necessary, but at the same time continuing and turbocharging the work were doing on growth and reform and changing our economy. Im not going to get into what may or may not happen in six months time. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Harriet Harman has called on Sir Keir Starmer to ban smartphones in schools, amid mounting pressure on the government to take action to stop tech companies from allowing harmful material on their platforms. Is [the prime minister] going to side with parents who are terrified and want this content off their childrens phones, or is he going to accept the tech bros resistance to having to make changes? Baroness Harman asked. It comes after Sir Keir Starmer hosted a meeting at Downing Street with Adolescence co-writer Jack Thorne and childrens charities on Monday to talk about young boys being influenced by misogyny they encounter online. Baroness Harman who was made the new UK special envoy for women and girls last month said: I would like to see schools actually told top down from Westminster, You have got to ban the use of smartphones in school time, and that would then enable all schools not to have a discussion with their parents or to battle it out. But just to say: This is the ruling. She said she agreed with Kemi Badenoch, who last month announced that the Tories would introduce a full ban on smartphones in schools after admitting guidance issued under former prime minister Rishi Sunak hadnt worked. Baroness Harman told the Sky News Electoral Dysfunction podcast: What parents want is for schools to do a simple rule, and for all schools to do the same simple rule, and for the tech companies to be told: You have got to sort out this issue of the content thats on childrens phones. The previous Conservative government issued non-statutory guidance to schools in England intended to stop the use of mobile phones during break and lunch periods in schools, as well as in lessons. Baroness Harman called for a top-down approach ( Sky News ) But last month, shadow education secretary Laura Trott admitted the guidance hasnt worked. Now it is time to make it law, she said. When I go into schools, headteachers are asking for this. When I go into schools which have these kinds of ban, the pupils love it. They talk about how much safer it makes them feel. They talk about how they have the freedom to learn. Theyre not under any pressure to be on their phones responding to apps. At a time when we are facing lots of challenges in our education system, introducing something which reduces distraction, encourages reading, helps with behaviour, for me, is an absolute no-brainer. While the education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has previously said smartphones have no place in schools, warning of the damage caused by social media and technology, it is understood that Labour has no plans to put in place an outright ban. Phillipson previously told school and college leaders that they have the governments full backing on removing disruptive phones from classrooms. Baroness Harmans comments come amid speculation that online safety legislation could be watered down to secure an agreement with the US that would secure a carve-out for the UK from Trumps tariffs. However, the government has insisted that online safety protections for children are not up for negotiation in trade talks. Asked whether the Online Safety Act could be altered, Treasury minister James Murray told Sky News: Its really important for us to have those protections for children and vulnerable people online. Those important protections are not up for negotiation. Those basic protections are things we want to keep. Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trumps declaration of Liberation Day a dramatic unveiling of sweeping new tariffs on US imports has reignited questions about Americas global role, its economic influence, and what it all means for Britain post-Brexit. With the UK hit by a 10 per cent tariff, compared with 20 per cent for the EU, some Brexiteers were quick to claim a win. But if being slightly less penalised by a volatile US president is the best economic case for Brexit, its a shaky argument. Theres still no comprehensive UK-US trade deal, and experts warn that the so-called Brexit dividend has yet to materialise. In a live Q&A for The Independent, I answered your questions on Trumps trade war, the UKs response, and whether Keir Starmer can steer a better course with the EU. We discussed soft power, chlorinated chicken, the single market, and whether China really stands to gain. What emerges is a picture of a world in flux and a UK still feeling its way through the fog of Brexit and global disruption. Heres what you asked during the Ask Me Anything event and how I answered. Q: Trump calls this liberation day but is he actually pushing the world away from the US dollar and undermining Americas soft power? punda A: That is an interesting question. I dont think Trump is completely detached from reality, but he is certainly good at pretending that bad news is just a blip in the prelude to Making America Rich Again. I think that now he has impressed his voters with the idea that he is standing up for them against foreigners, many of the tariffs will be dropped, with Trump proclaiming huge concessions and unprecedented trade deals as cover. There was an interesting, if depressing, study of the effect of tariffs during Trumps first term they were mostly selective and short-lived, but they made a lot of his rust-belt voters slightly worse off. The study found that the voters worst affected were those most in favour of tariffs. Q: Time to talk with the EU and be nice to them this time, surely? Coulsdonguy A: Keir Starmer is talking to the EU and trying to be nice to them, because it made sense before Trumps trade war to ease the friction on UK-EU trade as much as possible without rejoining the single market and if we had rejoined the single market, we might have been hit by the EU tariff of 20 per cent, so there is a genuine Brexit dividend in the form of being hit less hard than the EU. Ministers have been pretty robust about chlorinated chicken and hormone-fed beef. Jonathan Reynolds, the trade secretary, said yesterday that the government would abide by Labours clear manifesto position to maintain that regime namely food production standards. (Although I personally dont have a problem with US chicken or beef, provided it is clearly labelled.) Q: How might the UK go about capitalising on this with our EU neighbours? Matt A: It is an opportunity in the sense that the UK will be hit less hard, and may be able to mitigate some of that damage by having EU-based companies that export to the US move here, but it is the opposite of an opportunity in any other sense of the word! Q: Is there any point in the UK trying to negotiate with Trump? PaulK A: I think we should do both: negotiate and not retaliate. I think he will reverse on tariffs at some point, and if he needs a great trade deal to cover his retreat, that should be fine by us. Q: If rejoining the single market makes economic sense, why wont Starmer act especially with a huge majority and Brexit now a minority view? Kerriman A: A counterintuitive question, at a point when not being in the single market means the UK faces 10 per cent tariffs on US exports instead of 20 per cent! But generally it remains true that we would be better off in the single market, while, for some voters, sovereignty is more important than GDP. Politically, though, Labour trying to reverse Brexit would lose a chunk of voters without gaining any, because those who are pro-EU are voting Labour anyway unless the Lib Dems can use the issue to force Labour voters to switch to them. Q: Is he a genius wholl help the US at the worlds expense or the opposite, bringing harm to everyone? FishingInTheRiverOfLife A: Trump is good at selling a simple political message, which is that he is going to stop those cheating and pillaging foreigners from taking advantage of the US. How much he believes in the economics of protection is almost a meaningless question. It is worth remembering that British politicians such as Joseph Chamberlain thought that tariffs were a good idea, and the issue split the UK (and UK parties) for decades, even though free trade usually had the upper hand. Chamberlain thought tariffs were a terrific wheeze because they would raise a lot of money and allow the abolition of income tax or so he thought. Q: If China play their cards well, could they come out on top in the end? punda A: No. Everyone loses from a trade war. But in relative terms, Chinas rise to world economic domination will continue. It does not need any action on the part of the Chinese government: Chinese companies will respond to market incentives and try to sell where they do not face tariffs. Q: Can you explain what tariffs we already levy on imports from the USA? Trump said 10 per cent is that correct? NigeP A: No, the 10 per cent is not correct. I have heard Jonathan Reynolds, the trade secretary, say that the average tariff the UK charges on imports from the US is 4 per cent. We impose tariffs on goods including beef, cars and denim jeans. Before Trump, the average US tariff on UK goods was about 3 per cent, according to the World Trade Organisation. Every respectable economist that I have seen has said that the so-called formula used by the USTR (US Office of the Trade Representative) is nonsense. Just because it uses Greek letters doesnt make it formal economics. It is like a supposedly scientific equation in a shampoo advert. What the formula does is roughly relate the tariff rate to the size of a countrys trade surplus with the US with a minimum of 10 per cent. So that countries that sell more to the US than they buy from it have higher tariffs. The UK imports about the same as it exports, which is why it is on the lowest rate of 10 per cent. These questions and answers were part of an Ask Me Anything hosted by John Rentoul at 1pm BST on Friday 4 April. Some of the questions and answers have been edited for this article. You can read the full discussion in the comments section of the original article. For more insight into UK politics, check out Johns weekly Commons Confidential newsletter. The email, exclusive to Independent Premium subscribers, takes you behind the curtain of Westminster. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, head here to find out more. Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Within minutes of Donald Trumps announcement on so-called reciprocal tariffs around the world, Brexiteers were claiming victory because the UK escaped with half the rate imposed on the EU. But if the UKs 10 per cent import tariffs to the American market compared to the EUs 20 per cent, is the best economic justification for Brexit that can be made, then supporters of leaving the EU are clutching at straws. The first and most obvious point is that Brexit has not spared the UK from having tariffs imposed on it by the one world leader who was the biggest cheerleader outside Britain for the UK leaving the EU. open image in gallery Trump with his tariffs list ( Reuters ) Britain is yet to benefit from the Brexit dividend - the economic gain that was promised when it left the EU. And far from the trade deal that Brexiteers promised would follow with the US, there is still none in place nine years after the referendum. Even if Keir Starmer lands one, it is likely to be highly focussed on specific areas and may not avoid tariffs altogether. Even Tory Brexit supporter Mark Wallace, now chief executive of the Total Politics magazine, cautioned his fellow Leavers from cheering tariffs this morning, even if 10 per cent is better than 20 per cent. Even with half the rate of tariffs compared with those imposed on the EU, the difference barely goes anywhere near undoing the economic harm that Brexit has done to the UK economy. The Cambridge Econometrics report commissioned by London Mayor Sadiq Khan last year found that the UK economy was 140bn smaller as a result of Brexit. London alone had lost 30bn as a result, with 300,000 fewer jobs, the report found. Its economists concluded the average Briton was nearly 2,000 worse off in 2023, while the average Londoner was nearly 3,400 worse off last year as a result of Brexit. It is a long way from the 350m a week extra for the NHS promised on the side of the Vote Leave bus by Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings in 2016. In its latest report, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), whose job it is to scrutinise public finances, estimates that exports by the UK will be 15 per cent lower in the long run than if the UK had remained in the EU. In January, the National Institute of Economic and Social Research think tank noted that at least 30 per cent of firms have consistently identified Brexit as one of their top three concerns every year since 2016. It also concluded that UK business investment could have been about 12.4 per cent higher in 2023 if Brexit did not happen. The Independents own research was even more damning - revealing that the cost of leaving the EU was 30.2bn alone. The food industry has seen a 2.8bn annual drop in exports, including 118,000 less tonnes of seafood exported and 56 per cent of dairy producers now struggling to make ends meet. open image in gallery Boris Johnson with the Vote Leave campaign bus (Stefan Rousseau/PA) ( PA Archive ) Across all sectors around 16,400 businesses stopped exporting altogether as a result of Brexit. And things are set to be even worse when the new border checks are finally operational later this year. Meanwhile, the claims that it would end uncontrolled immigration have also proven to be false with an average of 3.6m people entering the country legally since Brexit - far higher than when free movement was in place. No wonder two thirds of Britons think Brexit has gone badly in the latest polling. Donald Trump may have been slightly less nasty to Britain than the EU with his tariffs but it goes nowhere near fixing the economic damage that Brexit has already done. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Heading into this year, most U.S. farmers were hoping to break even or maybe record a small profit if they could find a way to limit their sky-high costs. But now they are faced with losing the biggest export market for many of their crops after China retaliated against President Donald Trump's tariffs. There's just not any margin for error in the current farm economy, said Kentucky farmer Caleb Ragland, who serves as president of the American Soybean Association. Soybean farmers have particular reason to worry because half their crop is exported and China has long been the biggest buyer. China has also bought a lot of American corn, beef, chicken, sorghum and other crops as part of spending $24.65 billion on U.S. agricultural products last year. Now with China slapping 34% tariffs on all American products Friday on top of other tariffs it imposed earlier this year all of those products will be significantly more expensive in China. Crop prices, much like the stock market, dropped after Trump announced his tariffs earlier this week. Tim Dufault, whose farm is in northwest Minnesota only about 80 miles south of Canada, said in a good year soybean farmers might make $50 to $75 an acre. But this isn't a good year because crop prices aren't high enough to cover soaring costs, and the price drop in the past two days cost them about $25 an acre, he said. Dufault said he is worried that these new tariffs might put many farmers out of business, including the young farmers he rented his land to heading into this year as he retired because they likely won't make anything in 2025. I just I hope to God they can stay in business, said Dufault, who is active with the Farmers for Free Trade group that pushes for open markets. One of the biggest long-term concerns is that American farmers and ranchers will lose market share as China turns to Brazil and other countries to buy the soybeans, beef, chicken and other crops it consumes. China will buy lots of sorghum because it is distilled into the drink baijiu that is as popular there as whiskey is in the United States, but they will get it from other countries. Farmers endured Trump's previous trade war with China during his first term. But this time, Trump's tariffs extend around the globe, so China likely won't be the last country to retaliate with tariffs of its own. Could farmers get government aid? The only way most farmers survived Trump's last trade war was with tens of billions of government aid payments, but it's not clear if he will do that this time. He gave them more than $22 billion in aid payments in 2019 and nearly $46 billion in 2020, though that year also included aid related to the COVID pandemic. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins told Fox News this week that right now she doesn't believe massive aid payments will be necessary, although she won't know that for several months. "But if it is, then this president has always said and he is resolute in his commitment to our farmers and our ranchers and our great rural communities in America, so we will well make sure were ready if in fact that is necessary, she said. But none of us like that, said farmer Andy Hineman, who is vice president of the Kansas Grain Sorghum Producers Association. We dont want to live on government handouts. Wed rather sell the crops we grow. But farmer Bryant Kagay, part owner of Kagay farms in Amity, Missouri, said he doesnt have a lot of faith that these tariffs the way they are laid out today will stick around long term. He also doesn't like the idea of getting aid from the government. I really hate that seems to be the solution that, well, well just pay farmers some just off-the-cuff payment to help offset this, Kagay said. I think a federal government thats vastly overspending today, like this is not the way to solve that problem. The hope for farmers is that Trumps tariffs will lead to negotiations with other countries that will lower tariffs and other trade barriers. Thats the type of positive development that we can do thats good for everybody involved, and thats what we need to look for, Ragland said. Instead of beating each other up with higher and higher tariffs its just like punching each other in the face. Were not going to gain anything from it. Its just going to cause us to hurt. That would be my encouragement to the administration, is to look for opportunities and get some great deals done proactively. ___ Associated Press writer Nick Ingram contributed to this report from Missouri. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Lawmakers in Oregon and Washington are considering whether striking workers should receive unemployment benefits, following recent walkouts by Boeing factory workers, hospital nurses and teachers in the Pacific Northwest that highlighted a new era of American labor activism. Oregon's measure would make it the first state to provide pay for picketing public employees who aren't allowed to strike in most states, let alone receive benefits for it. Washington's would pay striking private sector workers for up to 12 weeks, starting after at least two weeks on the line. The bottom line is this helps level the playing field, said Democratic state Sen. Marcus Riccelli, who sponsored Washington's bill. Without a social safety net during a strike, workers are faced with tremendous pressure to end the strike quickly or never go on strike in the first place. But the bills are raising questions about how they would affect employers, especially amid economic uncertainties tied to federal funding cuts and tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. Its inappropriate to unbalance the bargaining table in a way that forces employers to pay for the costs of a striking worker, Lindsey Hueer, government affairs director with the Association of Washington Business, told senators during a committee hearing in February. Unemployment insurance should be a safety net for workers who have no job to return to." So far only two states, New York and New Jersey, give striking workers unemployment benefits. Senate Democrats in Connecticut have revived legislation that would provide financial help for striking workers after the governor vetoed a similar measure last year. Benefits bills advance but face opposition The measures in Washington and Oregon have been passed by the state Senate of each and are now in the House. The Washington bill faces its final committee hearings on Friday and Monday. The Economic Policy Institute, a nonprofit, pro-labor think tank in Washington, D.C., has studied the effects of giving unemployment benefits to striking workers and found it to be good for workers and employers alike, said Daniel Perez, state economic analyst for the organization. First, he said, lengthy strikes are extremely rare. More than half of U.S. labor strikes end within two days workers wouldn't receive pay in those cases and just 14% last more than two weeks. Second, the policy costs very little less than 1% of unemployment insurance expenditures in every state that has considered legislation. Bryan Corliss, spokesperson for the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace union, told The Associated Press that the big winners would be low-wage workers. If low-wage workers had the financial stability to actually go on strike for more than a day or two without risking eviction, we believe that would incentivize companies to actually come to the table and make a deal," he said. During a hearing in the Washington House labor committee last week, several Republican lawmakers tried to amend the bill to require striking workers to look for other jobs or to shorten the time covered from 12 weeks to four. The Democratic majority shot those ideas down. Republican Rep. Suzanne Schmidt said the bill might be good for workers, but it would hurt employers. Weve seen instances of this with the Boeing strike last year for the machinists," she said. "We had 32,000 people on strike at the same time and if this had been in play it would have cost millions of dollars to cover those workers. Boeing did actually lose billions having the workers on strike for several months. The Oregon bill, which also would make striking workers eligible for unemployment benefits after two weeks, sparked a similar debate, both among Democratic and Republican lawmakers as well as constituents, with hundreds of people submitting written testimony. The state has seen two large strikes in recent years: Thousands of nurses and dozens of doctors at Providence's eight Oregon hospitals were on strike for six weeks earlier this year, while a 2023 walkout of Portland Public Schools teachers shuttered schools for over three weeks in the state's largest district. The Oregon Senate passed the measure largely along party lines, with two Democrats voting against it. On the Senate floor, Democratic Sen. Janeen Sollman said she worried about the effect on public employers such as school districts, which do not have access to extra pots of money. Private employers pay into the state's unemployment trust fund through a payroll tax, but few public employers do, meaning that they would have to reimburse the fund for any payments made to their workers. Democratic Sen. Chris Gorsek, who supported the bill, argued it wouldn't cost public employers more than what they've already budgeted for salaries, as workers aren't paid when they're on strike. Also, those receiving unemployment benefits get at most 65% of their weekly pay, and benefit amounts are capped, according to a document presented to lawmakers by employment department officials. Unemployment insurance is partial wage replacement, so unemployment insurance in and of itself is not an additional cost to the employer," Gorsek said. In fact, the only way Senate Bill 916 would yield additional cost for what was already budgeted by the employer is if the employer decided to hire replacement workers. ___ Rush reported from Portland, Oregon. Associated Press writer Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut, contributed. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Legendary filmmaker Paul Schrader, the screenwriter behind Taxi Driver, American Gigolo, and Raging Bull, sexually assaulted and harassed his personal assistant over the course of years, the 26-year-old woman claims in civil court documents obtained by The Independent. The bombshell allegations emerged after Schrader allegedly reneged on a confidential settlement he agreed to in February, according to an affidavit filed by Jane Doe, as the former assistant is identified in a motion filed late Thursday night in New York State Supreme Court. Attorney Menaka Fernando, one of the members of Does legal team, told The Independent, As stated in our motion, Ms. Doe is simply seeking to enforce the settlement agreement between the parties resolving her sexual harassment and sexual assault claims. We have no further comment at this time and ask that the media respect Ms. Does privacy. In a phone call on Friday morning, Schraders attorney, Philip Kessler, told The Independent that he had just received the filing and was still going through it. But, I can tell you that this looks to me to be a desperate, frivolous, and opportunistic claim, Kessler said. The underlying intentions of the plaintiff here contain many very material inaccuracies, and are obviously designed to paint Mr. Schrader in a very false light, in an effort to intimidate and coerce him into settling. And just to be very clear, Mr. Schrader never had sex in any form with the plaintiff, nor did he ever attempt such a thing. We will vigorously defend this. open image in gallery Schrader knew his behavior was unwelcome and offensive, as evidenced by numerous emails he sent to Doe, according to the motion. ( 2024 Invision ) Schrader, 78, used his position of power over Ms. Doe to sexually assault her, by luring her into a hotel room and forcibly grabbing her and kissing her, despite her verbal protests, says the motion. Three days later, he forced Ms. Doe into his hotel room, under the guise of packing his bags for him, and he exposed his penis to her. During Does tenure, which lasted from May 2021 through her termination in September 2024, Schrader force[d] her to work in a sexually hostile, intimidating, and humiliating environment on a daily, if not hourly, basis, the motion states. It lists, in addition to sexual assault, a barrage of harassment by Schrader, including, among other things, forced exposure of his genitals, unwanted sexual advances, repeatedly professing his love and desire to touch Ms. Doe (both verbally and via numerous emails), and near-constant inappropriate sexual questions and lewd and misogynistic commentary. In May 2024, while premiering his latest movie, Oh, Canada, at the Cannes Film Festival, Schrader allegedly demanded Ms. Doe go to his hotel room, trapped her inside, grabbed her arms, and thrust his face into hers to kiss her against her will, and then further restrained her in an effort to keep her in the room before she managed to free herself and flee the hotel room. Three days later, Ms. Doe returned to Defendant Schraders hotel room after receiving numerous calls and angry text messages, in which Defendant Schrader claimed that he was dying and could not pack his own bags, Does motion contends. Afraid, Ms. Doe reluctantly acquiesced. Upon arriving, however, Defendant Schrader opened the door to his hotel room wearing nothing but an open bathrobe with his penis fully exposed. As Ms. Doe attempted to pack Mr. Schraders bags in terrified silence, he repeatedly commented, I am so sweaty. I sweated through the bedsheets. Feel how wet they are. Ms. Doe packed his bags as quickly as she could, and left. open image in gallery Schrader, third from left, at a 2016 screening of "Taxi Driver" during the Tribeca Film Festival ( Getty Images ) Schrader knew his behavior was unwelcome and offensive, as evidenced by numerous emails he sent to Doe, according to the motion. I sense you recoil every time I have the impulse to touch you, he allegedly wrote to her last year. Schrader fired Doe after she refused to succumb to his sexual advances, the motion states. [O]n September 23, 2024, he retaliated against her and terminated her employment, it says. Two days later, in full acknowledgment of his unlawful and predatory behavior, he wrote in an email to her, So I f**ked up. Big time... If I have become a Harvey Weinstein in your mind then of course you have no choice but to put me in the rear view mirror. About 10 days later, Schrader posted a help wanted ad on Facebook for a new assistant, calling the position a s**t and ice cream job. There will be days when you would be willing to pay me, the posting read. Then there will be menial tasks. I hope to be in pre-production in December, shooting late Januaryat that point work would be on set and on demand 24/7. The job would commence on acceptance. It may involve travel. Applicant should have college education and knowledge of film history. Applicant should live in greater NYC area. Computer skills essential. If you can lug film cans (remember those?) youre strong enough. open image in gallery Jane Doe claims Schrader assaulted her at the Cannes Film Festival, where the iconic screenwriter and director was premiering his latest film, "Oh, Canada" ( Getty Images ) In 2017, Schrader was criticized for saying he was more offended by Weinsteins reputation for recutting films than for the raft of sexual assault and rape allegations against the Miramax honcho, who is now in prison, later insisting his remarks had been misinterpreted. Since Schraders brutal attack on Doe, his exposure of his genitals to her, and his countless other acts of sexual harassment, she has experienced nightmares, extreme anxiety, and trauma, and has withdrawn almost completely from her former life, the motion states. Last month, an attorney for Schrader contacted Does legal team and said his client had been ill, and that during that period, he had done some soul searching. As a result, he no longer wanted to pay Doe the amount agreed to under the settlement agreement, the motion goes on. According to Defense Counsel, Defendant Schrader also stated that he could not live with himself if he performed his obligations under the Settlement Agreement, the motion says. Doe then filed Thursday nights motion to compel Schrader to comply with his obligations, revealing the allegations publicly. The amount of the settlement remains confidential, and details have been redacted in court filings. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A plan to ask the public to name a park being created from the partial closure of a highway has backfired, with suggestions including This is stupid. Lets not do it and Really stupid park. Nearly 4,300 entries were submitted to San Francisco Recreation and Parks' Great Park Naming Contest after two miles of the Great Highway was permanently closed to create it, KRON4 reported. With the park project receiving 54 percent support in a public vote, many have used the naming contest to vent their frustration. Opponents say the park rangers have overstepped the authority of the state and should not decide how roads are used. They also say the plans do not address environmental concerns. Meanwhile, supporters say traffic will be moved on to under-utilized roads in the neighborhood, with space freed up for leisure. District 4 supervisor Joel Engardio played a major role in the Proposition K public park, which will officially open on 12 April. Many of them have told me they didnt feel heard in their objection to it being on the ballot, Engardio said. I take this feedback to heart because its important to me that everyone is heard. Now the citizens' frustration has spread to the list of names submitted. Heres a few of some of the submissions: The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A South Carolina Senate committee rejected the Republican governor's nominee to be the state's top doctor after hours of hearings dominated by the state's response to the COVID pandemic. Just one of 13 Republicans on the Senate Medical Affairs Committee voted for Dr. Edward Simmer 's nomination to lead the new Department of Public Health in contrast to the Republican-dominated Senate's overwhelming endorsement of Simmer in 2001 as head of the states old public health and environmental agency. Thursday's vote reflected lingering anger over his handling of South Carolina's response to the pandemic. Simmer recommended people get the COVID vaccine, and he often wore masks well after the worst of the pandemic had passed, saying he wanted to protect his wife, who has a compromised immune system. Simmer defended his record, pointing out that in two years under his leadership of the old agency, South Carolina improved from 45th to 37th among U.S. states in overall public health measures and that COVID now takes up only a tiny percentage of his time. Sometimes a small amount of people can make a lot of noise. I think that's what were seeing here," Simmer said. But I also hope you can look at my overall record, where we are going as a state." The Department of Public Health was created last year, and Gov. Henry McMaster nominated Simmer, a retired U.S. Navy psychiatrist, to run it. But the governor's support came with a backhanded knock on the federal governments COVID response Hes not a Dr. Fauci, McMaster said, referring to Dr. Anthony Fauci, the infectious disease expert who advised Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden on the pandemic. Several Republicans aggressively questioned Simmer, reading aloud excerpts from his email in which he strongly encouraged people in 2021 to get the COVID vaccine and wear masks. Simmer said he was only following the best science at the time and said he never thought anyone should be required to be vaccinated. Sen. Matt Leber asked why Simmer didn't push back on schools buying Plexiglas barriers or grocery stores putting arrows on floors to encourage one-way traffic up aisles. Sometimes where there is chaos there is a vacuum of leadership, Leber said. Simmers critics both at the Statehouse and on social media have derisively called him a double masker for wearing two face masks even after he explained that his wife has underlying medical conditions that make COVID especially dangerous for her. He was maskless for hearings both last month and on Thursday but said he will wear a mask again without hesitation if that is what it takes to protect the woman I love. The lone Republican to vote for Simmer asked his colleagues to go back to 2020 and 2021 when many of them also organized COVID testing and made sure their constituents could find places with COVID vaccines. Sen. Tom Davis said punishing Simmer for what could only be known at the time was a terrible precedent. If hes guilty of some dereliction of duty in that regard, then I am derelict as well, Davis said. The Senates longest serving member, Republican Harvey Peeler, asked if Simmer would be willing to run the state Department of Mental Health if his nomination failed. Fauci blew up. You got hit by the shrapnel, said Peeler, a senator since 1981. You talk to my constituents. They see you, they think Dr. Fauci. The vote doesnt kill Simmers nomination. But the full Senate, dominated by Republicans, would have to vote to pull it out of committee and send it to the floor. The only real mention of anything other than COVID during the hearing came from Democrats. One questioned him about how South Carolina was monitoring measles outbreaks in other states. A second asked about a mobile maternity care center set to hit the road in 2026. South Carolina is near the bottom in the nation in infant and maternity deaths and has a number of poorer counties where getting to the nearest obstetrician can involve at least a 50-mile (80-kilometer) drive. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A former heart surgeon and celebrity doctor has been chosen to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) the healthcare service for millions of disadvantaged Americans. Mehmet Oz, 64, was confirmed for the position by the Republican-controlled Senate as part of a shake-up of the healthcare system. He will manage health insurance programs for roughly half the country, with oversight of Medicare, Medicaid or Affordable Care Act coverage. His appointment comes as the Trump administration considers making cuts to the Medicaid program, which provides coverage to millions of poor and disabled Americans. Oz told senators in March that he favored work requirements for Medicaid recipients, but said that paperwork was not vital in reaffirming worker status or to block people from staying enrolled. We have to make some important decisions to improve the quality of care, he said at the time. Oz grew to notable fame through hosting The Dr Oz Show, offering, at times, controversial health advice to viewers from 2009 to 2022. This included suggesting that malaria drugs were an effective cure for Covid-19 at the beginning of the pandemic. The Colombia University heart surgeon also praised the recent boom in weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy to combat obesity in America in contrast to the view of his new boss Robert F Kennedy Jr, who has previously said the drugs are scam. Oz formerly served as an unofficial advisor to Trump during the Covid-19 pandemic ( EPA ) Recently, Oz hosted the health secretary and his inner circle regularly at his home in Florida. And he has leaned into Kennedy's campaign to Make America Healthy Again," an effort to redesign the nations food supply, reject vaccine mandates and cast doubt on some long-established scientific research. Oz is yet to declare whether he is opposed to speculated cuts to the government-funded program. On Tuesday, thousands of staffers at the Food and Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institutes for Health were laid off. The CMS is expected to lose about 300 staffers in the wake of this weeks cuts. The Independent contacted the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for comment. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice George Clooney reportedly yelled obscenities at an MSNBC producer after Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski suggested former president Barack Obama urged the actor to pen his now in-famous op-ed calling for former president Joe Biden to step down, according to a new book. During a segment of the morning MSNBC show in July, Brzezinski suggested that Obama heavily influenced Clooneys op-ed published in the New York Times calling for Biden to allow another Democrat to run against President Donald Trump in the 2024 election. This wasnt George Clooney, Brzezinski said. I think that Barack Obama has a lot of influence. open image in gallery MSNBC host Mika Brzezinski claimed that Barack Obama urged George Clooney to write his now-infamous op-ed calling for Joe Biden to step aside. ( MSNBC ) That assertion allegedly enraged Clooney, journalist Chris Whipple reported in his new book about the Biden campaign. Whipple shared the recount with Substack The Red Letter. How the f*** could you let her link me with Barack Obama, saying he made me write the op-ed? Clooney shouted over the phone to an MSNBC producer. At the time, other reports also attributed Clooneys decision to request Biden step down to Obama. Some reports suggested Clooney informed Obama of his op-ed before it was published, but the former president simply did not object to it. Clooney reportedly became angrier with the producer when they denied involvement in pushing Brzezinski to make the link. open image in gallery Clooney went on an expletive filled rant against an MSNBC producer after the claims linking him with Obama, according to a new book You f***ed me, Clooney yelled. Youre my friend. You should have stood up for me. The producer reportedly responded, George, this is not a f***ing movie. Theres no script. The two allegedly got into a profanity-filled back-and-forth for several hours over the phone. The producer seemingly told Clooney they would try to take care of it the next day. At one point, the producer told Clooney, This is a morning talk show on a cable channel. Nobody gives a f*** if we say he should get out or he should stay in. Clooney is a longtime Democratic ally and endorsed Obama, presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and Biden. He held fundraisers for Biden in 2020 and 2024. But, shortly after hosting a fundraiser for Biden last year, he published the op-ed calling for him to step down. The Independent has reached out to representatives for Clooney for comment. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice French President Emmanuel Macron has urged European companies to stop investing in the U.S. following President Donald Trumps announcement of across-the-board tariffs on imports to America. Investments to come or investments announced in recent weeks should be suspended until things are clarified with the United States, Macron said Thursday at a meeting with representatives from French industry, Reuters reported. What message would we send by having major European players investing billions of euros in the American economy at a time when [the U.S.] is hitting us? he asked during the meeting at the Elysee palace with representatives of the sectors impacted by the tariffs, Politico noted. Macron called for collective solidarity in response to the U.S. levies after Trump on Wednesday placed 20 percent tariffs on the EU on all exports to the U.S. China in recent weeks has also restricted companies from investing in the U.S., following Trumps earlier tariff announcements, Bloomberg reported. The country now faces a Trump levy of at least 54 percent on many goods. It invested $6.9 billion in the U.S. in 2023. Macrons comments regarding French investments follow by just weeks an announcement from French shipping company CMA CGM that it will invest $20 billion in the U.S. to construct shipping logistics systems and terminals. At the time, Trump celebrated the announcement, and he even boasted about the investment again during his speech announcing the new tariffs Wednesday. Late last month, Schneider Electric, the French electrical equipment supplier, announced that it would invest $700 million in the U.S. to back its energy infrastructure and to expand artificial intelligence projects. Macron warned that no option is off the table to respond to Trumps tariffs. French President Emmanuel Macron awaits the arrival of guests at the Elysee Palace on March 27, 2025, in Paris, France. He has suggested that Europe stop investing in the U.S. amid Trumps trade war ( Getty Images ) The French president indicated that the response to the new batch of tariffs would be more powerful than the response to previous tariffs on steel and aluminum. Macron blasted the tariffs as brutal and unfounded, and said that it would mean a shock to international trade, adding that Europe would have to respond industry by industry. The French presidents comments are viewed as an effort to convince French industry leaders not to attempt to make their own private deals with Trump, outside of EU trade policy. The leader of the luxury goods company LVMH, Bernard Arnault, has said that he was thinking about boosting investments in the U.S. and praised Trumps economic policies. I've just come back from the USA and I could see the wind of optimism reigning in that country. And when you come back to France, it's a bit of a cold shower, Arnault, Europes richest man, said in January. Macron said Trumps tariffs served as a confirmation that France had been correct to argue for a stricter trade policy and a more formidable defense. We need to continue to accelerate at the European level with an agenda of trade protection, said Macron, pointing to EU levies on Chinese vehicles. We are not naive, we are going to protect ourselves, he added regarding the trade war with the U.S. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is reportedly the mystery all-cash buyer behind the purchase of a $23 million mansion a short drive from Donald Trumps Oval Office, according to a new report. Residents of Washington D.C.s Woodland Normanstone neighborhood have been curious about who purchased the 15,000 square-foot mansion, and noted an uptick in activity at the home on Monday. That's the same day that flight tracking software clocked Zuckerberg's private jet landing at Dulles Airport. Now, Politico Magazine has confirmed via a Meta spokesperson that the buyer is in fact, the companys CEO. Mark and Priscilla have purchased a home in D.C., which will allow Mark to spend more time there as Meta continues the work on policy issues related to American technology leadership, the spokesperson said. The Meta CEO reportedly paid for the red brick modern farmhouse-style house, which is a 12-minute drive from the White House, in cash. open image in gallery Mark Zuckerberg revealed as cash buyer of $23 million Washington, D.C. mansion ( Robert M Gurney, FAIA Architect/Anice Hoachlander ) Zuckerberg also has homes in Palo Alto, California, Lake Tahoe, and Hawaii, among other locations. Meta said in its statement that Zuckerberg owning a private home is safer and more convenient for him as he plans to spend more time in the nation's capital. open image in gallery Mark Zuckerberg revealed as cash buyer of $23 million Washington, D.C. mansion ( Robert M Gurney, FAIA Architect/Anice Hoachlander ) Tom Daley, a Washington, DC real estate expert, told Politico Magazine that he thinks Donald Trump has made it clear he likes face time, and that Zuckerberg has gotten the message. open image in gallery Mark Zuckerberg revealed as cash buyer of $23 million Washington, D.C. mansion ( Robert M Gurney, FAIA Architect/Anice Hoachlander ) Its the ultimate bow to the man in the White House. To me, its a little reminiscent of when the Trump Hotel was the Trump Hotel," he told the magazine. "He notices whos there. Its an easy way to say, Hey, were with ya. Here we are. Im sure he takes it as the ultimate compliment. open image in gallery Mark Zuckerberg revealed as cash buyer of $23 million Washington, D.C. mansion ( Robert M Gurney, FAIA Architect/Anice Hoachlander ) Zuckerberg isn't the first billionaire CEO to plant a flag in the District. Washington Post owner and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns a $23 million property in the Kalorama neighborhood. He bought that house in 2016. In 2021, the co-founder of PayPal and conservative cash dispenser Peter Thiel bought his own mansion in Zuckerberg's new neighborhood for $13 million. open image in gallery Mark Zuckerberg revealed as cash buyer of $23 million Washington, D.C. mansion ( Robert M Gurney, FAIA Architect/Anice Hoachlander ) But there's been a clear trend over the last year of the super-wealthy executives moving into Washington, D.C. Former Google CEo Eric Schmidt paid $15 million for a home in Georgetown where Jacqueline Kennedy once lived, and PayPal co-founder David Sacks now serving as the White House's crypto and AI adviser bought a penthouse in northwest DC for $10.3 million in the same period. open image in gallery Mark Zuckerberg revealed as cash buyer of $23 million Washington, D.C. mansion ( Robert M Gurney, FAIA Architect/Anice Hoachlander ) Across the river in Virginia, Jeff Skoll, a former eBay executive, spent $17 million to obtain a pair of suburban homes he reportedly hopes to turn into his own compound. The big money executives are moving into the DMV at a time when many of the region's residents those who worked federal jobs or for federal contractors are scrambling to figure out how to pay rent. open image in gallery Mark Zuckerberg revealed as cash buyer of $23 million Washington, D.C. mansion ( Robert M Gurney, FAIA Architect/Anice Hoachlander ) The work of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency has led to tens of thousands of federal workers and contractors either out of work or unsure if they're going to have jobs heading into the spring. Many of those workers live in or around Washington, D.C. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Former Vice President Mike Pence will be given the 2025 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award for certifying the 2020 election results after rioters rampaged through the U.S. Capitol, the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation revealed on Thursday. Then-vice president to President Donald Trump during his first term, Pence certified former President Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 election despite Trump pressuring him to toss out the results during the certification on January 6, 2021 as Trump supporters laid siege to the Capitol. The daughter of President Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy, and her son, Jack Schlossberg, said in a statement announcing the foundations decision that Pences actions were an example of President Kennedys belief that an act of political courage can change the course of history. Pence is set to receive the award from Kennedy and Schlossberg at the Kennedy Library in Boston on May 4. Despite our political differences, it is hard to imagine an act of greater consequence than Vice President Pences decision to certify the 2020 presidential election during an attack on the U.S. Capitol, said mother and son. Upholding his oath to the Constitution and following his conscience, the Vice President put his life, career, and political future on the line. Rioters that day chanted: Hang Mike Pence, and a noose hung from a makeshift scaffold outside the Capitol. In the press release, Pence said he was deeply humbled and honored. I have been inspired by the life and words of President John F. Kennedy since my youth and am honored to join the company of so many distinguished Americans who have received this recognition in the past, he added. The Kennedys also said in the statement that political courage is not outdated in the United States. At every level of government, leaders are putting country first, and not backing down, they added. The Kennedys said Pences decision is an example of President Kennedy's belief that an act of political courage can change the course of history. Former Vice President Mike Pence attends the Inauguration of Donald Trump in the Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C. on January 20, 2025. Hes this years recipient of the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award ( Getty Images ) The award comes as Pences former boss works to bend academic institutions and foreign governments to his will through tariffs and withdrawals of government funding, in addition to other measures. Pence slammed Trumps tariffs in a post on X on Wednesday, writing: The Trump Tariff Tax is the largest peacetime tax hike in U.S. history. These Tariffs are nearly 10x the size of those imposed during the Trump-Pence Administration and will cost American families over $3,500 per year. The Kennedy Profile in Courage award has been presented each year since 1989 to public servants who have made courageous decisions of conscience without regard for the personal or professional consequences. In 2024, the award was given to the Republican Secretary of State of Kentucky, Michael Adams, for expanding voting rights and standing up for free and fair elections despite party opposition. Pence has faced ostracism by Trump and the rest of the Republican Party after refusing to adhere to Trumps demands to toss out the 2020 election, which Trump lost. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trump has fired the director of the U.S. National Security Agency, Washington Post as reported - the latest in a series of dismissals at the agency following the presidents meeting with far-right activist Laura Loomer. Gen. Timothy Haugh, who also heads the US Cyber Command, was dismissed with NSA deputy directory Wendy Noble on Thursday. Following the news, Loomer posted on X: NSA Director Tim Haugh and his deputy Wendy Noble have been disloyal to President Trump. That is why they have been fired. Democrats voiced alarm over the firing of the cyber professional with more than 30 years of military service. Sen. Mark R. Warner of Virginia said: At a time when the United States is facing unprecedented cyberthreats... how does firing him make Americans any safer? The Pentagon and the White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment. It comes after several National Security Council staff members were sacked this week, after Loomer, a Trump supporter, advocated their dismissal during a meeting with the president on Wednesday. Loomer told The Washington Post that she asked Trump to fire Haugh because he was "handpicked" by Gen. Mark A. Milley, who was chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 2023 when Haugh was nominated. Gen. Milley had his security detail and clearance was revoked in January following accusations of disloyalty to Trump. Renee Burton, a cybersecurity expert with two decades experience at the NSA, said Gen Haughs dismissal was alarming. Laura Loomer met with Donald Trump in the Oval Office on Wednesday ( Getty Images ) NSA mission is vast and extremely complicated, Burton told CNN. General Haugh and Ms. Noble have built the expertise and credibility it takes to oversee such a vital part of our national security. Replacing them will not be easy and the disruption will expose the country to new risk. Cyber Command deputy Lt. Gen. William J. Hartman will act as NSA director, one official said. NSA executive director Sheila Thomas will ace as deputy, two officials said. The NSA is one of the United States' premier intelligence agencies and uses top-tier, specialized technology and systems to collect and analyze intelligence. U.S. Cyber Command carries out both offensive and defensive operations and monitors the networks of the Department of Defense. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A federal judge has rejected a request from Donald Trumps administration to throw out a Tufts University doctoral students legal challenge to her arrest and imprisonment. Turkish student Rumeysa Ozturk who is currently imprisoned in a Louisiana detention center where several other international students are detained was arrested outside her apartment in Massachusetts after masked and hooded plaint-clothes immigration agents grabbed her off the street. On Friday, District Judge Denise Casper agreed to move her case to Vermont, where she was when her lawyers initially petitioned the court for her release. Her attorneys have argued that Immigration and Customs Enforcement deliberately and secretly moved her case into another jurisdiction where the Trump administration would have a more favorable outcome. open image in gallery Demonstrators in Massachusetts have held a series of protests demanding the release of Tufts University PhD student Rumeysa Ozturk from ICE custody ( REUTERS ) Fridays decision sends a clear message that the government cannot manipulate jurisdiction in order to target human rights defenders, in violation of their First Amendment rights, Ozturks attorney Mahsa Khanbabai said in a statement. Lets be clear: Rumeysa should never have been arrested or detained by ICE in the first place, she said. What matters most right now is our continued fight to ensure her immediate release and safe return home. The decision followed a court hearing in Boston, where Department of Justice lawyers urged the judge to dismiss the challenge and allow the administration to deport her from the United States. Ozturk among several international students targeted for removal from the country for their Palestinian advocacy has not been accused of a crime, and the governments only apparent evidence against her is her op-ed criticizing Israel in a student newspaper. She is working toward her doctorate at the Eliot-Pearson Child Study and Human Development at Tufts Universitys Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. She received her masters degree in developmental psychology from Teachers College at Columbia University, where she was a Fulbright scholar. open image in gallery Rumeysa Ozturk, a Fulbright scholar from Turkey, was arrested by federal agents and is being held in a Louisiana detention center. Her visa was revoked, and the only evidence the administration has offered against her is an op-ed she wrote critical of Israel ( AP ) Federal agents arrested Ozturk outside her apartment on March 25 while she was on her way to an Iftar dinner to break her Ramadan fast with friends. The administration later said her student visa was revoked. Her family, friends and attorneys did not know where she was being held for nearly 24 hours after her arrest. Attorneys argue that federal authorities appear to have deliberately shuffled her around to keep her whereabouts secret. Following her arrest, a separate federal judge ordered that Ozturk could not be moved outside the state without at least 48 hours of advance notice to the court. But within a day after her arrest, she was in Louisiana. The government chose to ignore the order after secretly whisking her away and making sure no one knew where she was, ACLU of Massachusetts attorney Adriana Lafaille told Judge Casper on Thursday. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Sauter said moving Ozturk was already set in place before the order. The language of the order says do not move outside Massachusetts which does not affect a situation when the person is already outside of Massachusetts, he said. Ozturks case will be moved before Vermont District Judge William Sessions III, a former chair of the US Sentencing Commission who was appointed to the bench by Bill Clinton. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Turkish doctoral student who was grabbed off the street by plain-clothes federal agents in apparent retaliation for her op-ed criticizing Israel says her arrest and ongoing detention wont stop her from speaking out. Tufts Universitys PhD student Rumeysa Ozturk among several international students targeted for removal from the country for their Palestinian advocacy remains in detention in a Louisiana facility while her lawyers argue in court for her release. She has not been accused of a crime, and the governments only apparent evidence against her is an op-ed in a student newspaper. Attempts from Donald Trumps administration to keep her in custody will not deter me from my commitment to advocate for the rights of youth and children, she said in a statement through her attorney on Thursday. Last year, Ozturk co-authored an op-ed in The Tufts Daily newspaper calling on the university to divest from companies with direct or indirect ties to Israel in an effort to hold Israel accountable for clear violations of international law. Credible accusations against Israel include accounts of deliberate starvation and indiscriminate slaughter of Palestinian civilians and plausible genocide, says the op-ed, which was written with three other students and endorsed by 32 others. Ozturk is working towards her doctorate at the Eliot-Pearson Child Study and Human Development at Tufts Universitys Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. She received her masters degree in developmental psychology from Teachers College at Columbia University, where she was a Fulbright scholar. open image in gallery Tufts University doctoral student Rumeysa Ozturk was arrested by ICE agents in apparent retaliation for her op-ed in a student newspaper criticizing Israel ( via REUTERS ) We know that injustice in the world and systemic brutality towards people of color has long-lasting negative effects on children, youth, and other communities, she said in her statement. My life is committed to choosing peaceful and inclusive ways to meet the needs of children, she added. I believe the world is a more beautiful and peaceful place when we listen to each other and allow different perspectives to be in the room. Writing is one of the most peaceful ways of addressing systemic inequality. Efforts to target me because of my op-ed in the Tufts Daily calling for the equal dignity and humanity of all people will not deter me from my commitment to advocate for the rights of youth and children, Ozturk said. open image in gallery Protesters gather outside federal court in Boston on April 3 during a hearing with lawyers for Rumeysa Ozturk and other student activists targeted by the Trump administration ( AP ) Her statement followed a court hearing in Boston, where a federal judge is considering whether to transfer jurisdiction of her case to Massachusetts. Ozturks family, friends and attorneys did not know where she was being held for nearly 24 hours after her arrest. Attorneys argue that federal authorities appears to have deliberately shuffled her around to keep her whereabouts secret. Following her arrest, a federal judge ordered that Ozturk cannot be moved outside the state without at least 48 hours of advance notice to the court. But the day after her arrest, she was in a detention center in Louisiana. The government chose to ignore the order after secretly whisking her away and making sure no one knew where she was, ACLU of Massachusetts attorney Adriana Lafaille told District Judge Denise Casper on Thursday. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Sauter said moving Ozturk was already set in place before the order. The language of the order says do not move outside Massachusetts which does not affect a situation when the person is already outside of Massachusetts, he said. In a rare show of support from a university at the center of the Trump administrations allegations of campus-wide antisemitism, Tufts University said there is no information to support the allegations that she was engaged in activities at Tufts that warrant her arrest and detention. The University has seen an outpouring of support for Ms. Ozturk over the last week from Tufts students, faculty and staff, according to a statement from the university. These individuals have described Ms. Ozturk as a valued member of the community, dedicated to her academic pursuits and committed to her colleagues. open image in gallery ACLU attorney Adriana Lafaille speaks to reporters and Rumeysa Ozturks supporters after a court hearing in Boston on April 3 ( EPA ) Plain-clothes Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers arrested Ozturk outside her apartment on March 25 while she was on her way to an Iftar dinner to break her Ramadan fast with friends. Surveillance footage shows a man with his head covered by a black hooded sweatshirt approaching her and grabbing her wrists. Another man in a ball cap and hooded sweatshirt then walks behind her before pulling out a badge from under his hoodie and grabbing Ozturks phone from her hand. Other plain-clothes agents then surround her with neck gaiters covering their faces. Of the six agents who surrounded her, all but one wore masks. Her arrest and the termination of her student visa are part of an effort by the Trump administration to silence and chill speech supportive of the rights of Palestinians and critical of Israels war in Gaza, especially on university campuses, according to a filing from Ozturks attorneys. Ozturks arrest follows similar actions from federal authorities targeting student activists who joined protests against Israels war in Gaza, none of whom have been accused of committing any crime. Trump signed two executive orders that attorneys say fulfill his campaign promise of chilling speech in support of Palestinians by conflating demonstrations with antisemitism and support for Hamas. One declares U.S. policy to ensure noncitizens do not advocate for, aid, or support designated foreign terrorists and other threats to our national security. A fact sheet for another executive order pledges immediate action to investigate and punish anti-Jewish racism in leftist, anti-American colleges and universities with a promise to deport Hamas sympathizers and revoke student visas. Trump and administration officials have mischaracterized such speech as inherently supportive of Hamas and antisemitic, Ozturks attorneys wrote in court filings. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump said on Friday he would extend the deadline for TikTok to find a U.S. buyer by an additional 75 days to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, while preventing the popular social media app from going dark in the United States. My Administration has been working very hard on a Deal to SAVE TIKTOK, and we have made tremendous progress, Trump wrote on Truth Social. The Deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an Executive Order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days. On his first day in office, Trump delayed the apps ban via an executive order, giving the Chinese-based owner ByteDance until Saturday, April 5 to find a U.S. buyer. The president held a White House meeting this week to discuss potential offers with advisers and Vice President JD Vance. The administration was reportedly nearing a TikTok deal but China halted the breaks on it after the president implemented more tariffs on China. open image in gallery Trump repeatedly said he would save TikTok while campaigning despite being the one to initiate a potential ban in 2020. ( REUTERS ) Under a bipartisan bill passed last year and signed by former president Joe Biden, ByteDance must sell TikTok to a U.S.-based company, or the app will be banned from U.S. servers such as the App Store and Google. The bill intends to protect Americans and national security by preventing a company with ties to the Chinese government from accessing American users' data. Various tech and investment companies have been in talks to purchase TikTok from ByteDance, including Amazon, Oracle, Perplexity AI, Blackstone and others. A person familiar with negotiations told the Associated Press that the deal with ByteDance collapsed on Thursday after the tariff announcement. ByteDance representatives reportedly told the White House that China would no longer approve the deal until further negotiations about tariffs and trade. Its unclear if a deal can still be reached. The president said he hopes to work in good faith with China to strike a deal. We hope to continue working in Good Faith with China, who I understand are not very happy about our Reciprocal Tariffs (Necessary for Fair and Balanced Trade between China and the U.S.A.!), Trump wrote. open image in gallery Trump signed an executive order in January asking the attorney general not to pursue action against US servers hosting TikTok for 75 days. ( EPA ) Fulfilling a deal has proven to be difficult; ByteDance has yet to publicly agree to divest from TikTok. The social media app tried to fight the bill last year but the Supreme Court upheld the legislation. The bill allows for the president to issue one 75-day extension. Trump tried to ban TikTok during his first presidential term but reversed his position while campaigning in 2024, saying he would save the app from going dark. Congress gave TikTok a deadline of January 19 to work out a deal but without one on the horizon the app went dark for a few hours. Once Trump took office, he signed an executive order directing Attorney General Pam Bondi not to take action against U.S. servers hosting TikTok for 75 days. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The arrest and wrongful removal of a Salvadoran immigrant from the United States was unconstitutional from the moment he was seized, a federal judge told lawyers for Donald Trumps administration on Friday. District Judge Paula Xinis has ordered the administration to return Kilman Abrego Garcia to Maryland from El Salvador after government attorneys argued in court filings that the case was no longer in their hands. He was apprehended without legal basis and without due process, Judge Xinis said. Abrego Garcia must be returned to the United States by midnight on April 7, according to the judges order. open image in gallery Kilman Abrego Garcias wife Jennifer Vasquez Sura speaks outside a federal courthouse on April 4 as lawyers for their family seek his return from El Salvador after the government mistakenly deported him to that countrys notorious maximum security prison ( AP ) This is a highly unusual circumstance. I dare say unprecedented, she told attorneys for the government. From the moment he was seized it was unconstitutional. Abrego Garcia was deported to El Salvador on March 15, joining dozens of mostly Venezuelan immigrants on removal flights after the president secretly invoked the Alien Enemies Act to summarily deport alleged Tren de Aragua gang members. Two of the planes were sent to El Salvador under that wartime authority, and a third plane was supposed to only be carrying immigrants with court orders for their removal. Abrego Garcia was on that plane something administration officials have called an oversight despite no orders for his removal from the country. In 2019, a judge had blocked Abrego Garcias removal after credible testimony that he fears violence and death in his home country, which he fled in 2011 when he was 16 years old. Under that order, he is allowed to remain in the United States legally, and must attend regular check-ins with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. His most recent appearance was in January, according to court documents. He has no criminal record in either the United States or El Salvador, according to his attorney. He has been living in Maryland with his wife and 5-year-old child, both U.S. citizens, and helping raise two children from a previous relationship. But government attorneys admitted in court documents this week that Abrego Garcia was placed in removal proceedings due to an administrative error, but the administration effectively said it could not return him because he is no longer in the United States and thus not under its jurisdiction. Following news of the governments admission, administration officials quickly defended his removal. Vice President JD Vance falsely labeled Abrego Garcia a convicted gang member. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt admitted there was a clerical error in his case, but claimed, without providing evidence, that Garcia was a leader of the MS-13 gang, and involved in human trafficking. Following the courts order, Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin told Fox News that Abrego Garcia is not some Maryland father as the mainstream media will have you believe. She repeated accusations that he is a member of MS-13 and was involved in human trafficking. Its unbelievable the framing of this, she said. He should be locked up. The Independent has requested comment from the State Department. The White House referred to McLaughlins comments as its official position. open image in gallery Kilmar Abrego Garcia, pictured in an undated photo from immigrants rights group CASA, was deported from the United States on March 15 despite a court order protecting his removal ( AP ) Justice Department lawyer Erez Reuveni, the acting director of the Office of Immigration Litigation, admitted on Friday that there is nothing in evidence that would support authorities decision to remove him. The plaintiff should not have been removed. That is not in dispute, he said. Judge Xinis said the administrations actions amount to an outright violation of the law. Theres no lawful way he could have been removed if he was subject to a court order that blocked his removal, she said. Asked on what basis the government deported him to a Salvadoran prison that has been condemned by human rights organizations, Erez said: I dont know. Erez appeared to suggest that the administration was acting against the advice of his office. A separate federal judge in Washington, D.C., has temporarily blocked Trump from deporting immigrants under the Alien Enemies Act, a block that was upheld by appellate court judges last week. The administration is now asking the Supreme Court to intervene and overturn the judges order. District Judge James Boasberg, who is overseeing that case, is considering whether to hold Trump administration officials in contempt after they appeared to ignore his court orders that blocked the flights from reaching El Salvador in the first place. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The cost of Donald Trumps bombing campaign in Yemen could reach a staggering $1 billion by next week, while having limited success in deterring the Houthi militants it is targeting. That is the grim assessment Pentagon officials have given in closed briefings to congressional aides and allies in recent days, according to the New York Times. Their views directly contradict the presidents claim just days ago that the Houthis had been decimated by the relentless strikes, which he ordered on 15 March in response to attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. Instead, the Houthis have adapted to U.S. strikes by reinforcing their bunkers and other command posts, which has allowed them to conserve and continue to fire missiles and respond to airstrikes, the officials reportedly said in private briefings with Congress. The group has shot down two MQ-9 Reaper drones in the last week, defense officials told Fox News, and three since Trumps campaign began. Houthi spokesman Nasruddin Amer said Friday that the group had carried out an attack on U.S. warships overnight in the Red Sea with a number of cruise missiles and drones, which suggests the group still retains significant capability. While the Houthis are still able to launch attacks, the costs of the mission are mounting. The Pentagon has used $200 million worth of munitions alone, officials told the Times. One U.S. official said the total cost of Trumps campaign could reach $1 billion by next week, which would require the Pentagon to ask for more funds from Congress. open image in gallery National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who inadvertently added a journalist to a group chat that discussed Yemen strike plans, speaks as he sits with U.S. President Donald Trump during an Ambassador Meeting in the Cabinet Room of the White House on March 25, 2025 in Washington, DC ( Getty Images ) The cost comes as the Trump administration is currently making sweeping job cuts across the U.S. government in an effort to save money, in a project spearheaded by the worlds richest man and now presidential advisor, Elon Musk. Trumps involvement in Yemen has drawn criticism from his own supporters, who have argued that it contradicts his promises to end endless wars and his America First campaign slogan. One thing the bombing has achieved, however, is a higher civilian body count. Iona Craig, a representative of the Yemen Data Project, which conducts in-depth research on the war in Yemen, said Trumps campaign had killed an estimated 28 civilians in three weeks, among them four children, along with dozens more injured. That number is already greater than the 21 civilian deaths from the bombing campaign launched by Joe Bidens administration, which lasted for more than a year. In the first week of the Trump strikes, two medical facilities were hit and three educational facilities, including a school in Saada and Al Eiman University in the capital, Craig told The Independent. She added that the civilian casualties were higher because of a notable change in the intensity of strikes and the targeting of more residential areas to go after Houthi leaders. Airwars, a research group that monitors civilian casualties caused by airstrikes, said in a new report this week that the Trump administration is choosing targets in Yemen that pose a more direct risk to civilians and may indicate a higher tolerance to the risk of civilian harm. open image in gallery Screenshot of a group chat convened by Trumps national security team that included a journalist from The Atlantic. ( The Atlantic ) Trumps bombing campaign has come under greater scrutiny in recent weeks after security officials in his administration inadvertently added a journalist to a group chat in which they shared plans for the initial round of strikes. In the chat, Michael Waltz, national security advisor to the president, said the strike had achieved its objective of killing a Houthi member. The first target their top missile guy we had positive ID of him walking into his girlfriends building and its now collapsed, Waltz wrote. Excellent, vice president JD Vance wrote in response. Based on her research, Craig believes that the strike referred to in those messages, on a residential area of al Jaraf, in the capital Sanaa, killed nine civilians and injured at least nine others. open image in gallery Screenshot of a group chat convened by Trumps national security team that included a journalist from The Atlantic. ( The Atlantic ) The U.S. conflict with the Iran-backed Houthis is part of a much wider regional war that was sparked by a surprise attack by Hamas on southern Israel on 7 October, 2023. When Israel bombarded Gaza in response, the Houthis joined the fight on the side of Hamas, firing drones and missiles towards Israel. The group then widened its attacks to target shipping in the Red Sea, promising to end only when Israel ends its war in Gaza, which has now killed more than 50,000 people, mostly civilians. Joe Biden, Trumps predecessor, launched airstrikes against Yemen on January 10, 2024, in direct response to unprecedented Houthi attacks against international maritime vessels in the Red Sea. Those strikes failed to deter the Houthis, and the attacks only stopped when a ceasefire was brokered between Israel and Hamas in January. open image in gallery Smoke rises from a location reportedly struck by U.S. airstrikes in Sanaa, Yemen, Sunday, March 30, 2025. ( Associated Press ) The Houthis resumed their attacks when Israel imposed a blockade on food and aid entering Gaza in March, which prompted Trump to launch his own campaign to stop the group. Announcing the strikes on 15 March, Trump said the Houthis had waged an unrelenting campaign of piracy, violence, and terrorism against American, and other, ships, aircraft, and drones. "We will use overwhelming lethal force until we have achieved our objective," he wrote on Truth Social, later adding that the campaign was aimed at targeting Houthi leaders and officials. Despite claiming the strikes have been successful in killing Houthi leaders, the Trump administration has not released the names of those it has killed. The Houthis have proved remarkably resilient to bombing campaigns in the past. The group has been on the receiving end of US-backed Saudi airstrikes for more than a decade, and yet still controls a third of the country, where most of the population lives, including the capital. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Tech billionaires who cozied up to Donald Trump were some of the biggest losers - shedding billions in net worth and values of their companies - in Thursdays stock market losses as Wall Street reacted to the presidents tariff plan. Meta stock was down 8.96 percent, Amazon was down 8.98 percent, Google had fallen 3.92 percent, while Apple had plunged over 9 percent. White House adviser Elon Musk also felt the pain, with Tesla sliding 5.47 percent. The losses came as Wall Street saw a historically bad day on Thursday after Trump announced his Liberation Day tariffs on nearly every U.S. trade partner. The Dow Jones saw a point drop that ranked in the top five worst of all time, while the NASDAQ suffered its largest one-day point drop in that markets history. The S&P 500 also saw its biggest one-day drop since March 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The market fell further on Friday, with the Dow dropping 1,000 at opening hours after China placed retaliatory 34 percent tariffs on U.S. goods. As a result of the sell-off, Metas Mark Zuckerberg personally lost $17.9 billion, while Amazon founder Jeff Bezoss wealth declined $16 billion and Musk was down $8.7 billion, according to an analysis from Forbes. Three men became close to Trump during the transition and donated to his efforts. They were also seen at his inauguration. Musk has become Trumps first buddy and is helping spearhead Trumps efforts to shrink the federal government. Still, their companies could be hit hard by Trumps tariff plan, which is expected to raise prices on many goods brought in from overseas. open image in gallery Executives Mark Zuckerberg of Meta and Jeff Bezos of Amazon attend Donald Trumps inauguration. Their tech companies lost billions in Thursdays stock market losses after Trump announced his tariff plan ( Getty Images ) While tech moguls lost a fortune on Thursday, Musk is still the worlds richest man, according to Forbes, with a net worth of $368.6 billion. Bezos is still at No. 2, with a net worth of $191.3 billion, while Zuckerberg is in third place with $178.6 billion. All told, the market plunge wiped away $208 billion from the worlds richest 500 people, per the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, the fourth largest one-day decline in the trackers 13-year history. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Wednesday a market decline was a sign of investors correcting for months of AI hype and over-priced tech stocks, calling it a Mag 7 problem, not a MAGA problem, a reference to the Magnificent Seven tech stocks Apple, Amazon, Tesla, Alphabet, Microsoft, Meta and chip-maker Nvidia. Throughout the 2024 election season, Trump courted an unusual level of support from Big Tech for a hard-right Republican. open image in gallery The market plunge wiped away $208 billion from the worlds richest 500 people -including Elon Musk. The Tesla owner has become close with Trump in recent months and is leading efforts to shrink the federal government ( AFP via Getty Images ) During the campaign, Elon Musk donated more than $290 million to Trump and Republican-affiliated efforts. Meta and Amazon both gave $1 million to Trumps inauguration, while Apples Tim Cook personally donated another million. Ahead of Trump taking office, tech CEOs expressed optimism Trump might slash regulation and support the burgeoning artificial intelligence field, where U.S. companies are in an arms race with China. I am very optimistic that President Trump is serious about this regulatory agenda, Bezos said in December. If I can help him do that, Im going to help him, because we do have too much regulation in this country. I think theres a real opportunity in this moment, Googles Sundar Pichai added that month. One of the constraints for A.I. could be the infrastructure we have in this country, including energy. The rate at which we can build things. I think there are real areas where I think hes thinking about and committed to making a difference. So hopefully we can make progress there. Other companies appeared to court the Trump administration with preemptive policy changes, such as Meta, which rolled back diversity and content-moderation policies, while appointing Trump ally and UFC president Dana White to its board. The administration has been a mixed bag since for these tech firms. open image in gallery Throughout the 2024 election season, Trump courted an unusual level of support from Big Tech for a hard-right Republican - as both Musk and Besoz attended inauguration events for Trump ( AP ) Vice President J.D. Vance, himself a former tech venture capitalist, has been outspoken against what he sees as European regulator overreach against U.S. tech companies. The Trump administration is troubled by reports that some foreign governments are considering tightening the screws on U.S. tech companies with international footprints, he said at a conference in February. Now America cannot and will not accept that. Zuckerberg has reportedly been lobbying Trump for assistance heading off a potential effort from regulators to force Facebook to allow European users to access its Facebook and Instagram platforms without facing personalized ads, which could be a major hit to the firms business model. The White House has also thrown its support behind a joint OpenAI-Oracle-SoftBank venture called Stargate, which intends to invest up to $500 billion in U.S. AI infrastructure. At the same time, if the market continues to tank, and if, as some firms predicts, a recession arrives within the next 12 months, it could have a major impact on U.S. AI capabilities. Developing AI requires data centers that use huge amounts of electricity, so much so that major tech firms have been on a spree of signing nuclear power agreements in recent months to secure long-term energy supplies. However, given the capital-intensive, multi-year nature of electricity generation projects, the tariff chaos could stall further long-term investments in the kind of infrastructure tech firms need to keep making AI. This article was amended on April 4. It originally stated that Xs stock had fallen 8.14 percent. However, that was inaccurate as X is now a private company. U.S. Steel, which trades under the symbol X, has fallen by 8.14 percent. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Almost no countries were spared from President Donald Trumps sweeping tariffs; even small, uninhabited islands in the Indian Ocean were included in the exhaustive list. But one country was notably missing: Russia. One of the United States largest adversaries was omitted from the list of countries slapped with even the 10 percent baseline tariff a move that raised some eyebrows given Trumps previously friendly relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. But other countries, including the uninhabited Heard Island and McDonald Islands, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, which have a population of 59 and Svalbard and Jan Mayen, islands in the Arctic Circle with approximately 2,000 people, were hit with tariffs. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Fox News on Wednesday that Russia was exempt because the U.S. doesnt trade with them under heavy sanctions placed on the country after it invaded Ukraine in 2022. open image in gallery Noticeably missing from the list of countries slapped with a minimum 10 percent tariff is Russia ( Getty Images ) However, the U.S. Trade Office indicates the U.S. does some trade with Russia, though significantly less than it did. Last year, the total goods trade with Russia was $3.5 billion. Most of Russias exports to the U.S. are radioactive chemicals, nitrogenous fertilizers and platinum. They are the second-largest exporter of fertilizer to the U.S. That number is still higher than the number of imports from other countries hit with tariffs such as Fiji, Paraguay or Albania. Bessent reminded people that other countries the U.S. has heavily sanctioned, including Belarus, Cuba and North Korea, were also excluded from the tariffs. open image in gallery Trump has threatened additional tariffs on Russia if a peace deal isnt agreed. ( REUTERS ) Trump may have left Russia off the list as some reprieve while he seeks to broker a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Russia did ask the U.S. to lift some of those sanction during the stalled peace talks. However, president recently threatened to impose tariffs on buyers of Russian oil if Putin fails to agree to a ceasefire deal. If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russias fault which it might not be but if I think it was Russias fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia, Trump said during an NBC interview. That would be that if you buy oil from Russia, you cant do business in the United States, he added. There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, a 25- to 50-point tariff on all oil. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Axios that Russia could still face additional strong sanctions. Meanwhile, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal announced new legislation on Tuesday that would slap 500 percent tariffs on countries that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium or other products. The extreme measures are an attempt to get Russia to engage in good faith negotiations, according to the Daily Mail. Other countries left off Trumps tariff list are Canada and Mexico, the U.S.s largest trading partners. Trump has already implemented tariffs on both countries for what he claims is their lack of attention to preventing fentanyl from being trafficked across the borders. California-born Virginia Giuffre, a victim of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, said little in the years since she settled a civil lawsuit with Prince Andrew. While Andrew, a friend of Epstein, rejected any wrongdoing and continues to deny claims he sexually assaulted her when she was 17, the settlement he paid her was reportedly around 12m. In a joint statement with Giuffre released at the time, he said he regretted his association with Epstein and commended the bravery of Giuffre and other survivors in standing up for themselves and others. Yet three years on from the settlement, Giuffre was back in the headlines last month after the mother of three, aged 41, posted a distressing image to Instagram showing her bruised and battered face, saying she had just four days to live after going into renal failure following a car crash. Writing about the crash, Giuffre said: This year has been the worst start to a new year, I wont bore anyone with the details, but I think it important to note that when a school bus driver comes at you driving 110km as we were slowing for a turn that no matter what your car is made of it might as well be a tin can. Ive gone into kidney renal failure, theyve given me four days to live, transferring me to a specialist hospital in urology. Im ready to go, just not until I see my babies one last time, but you know what they say about wishes. Days after the post on 30 March, via a family spokesperson, she said that the picture and caption had been mistakenly posted to her public Instagram and were only meant to be on her private Facebook page. Earlier today, her family revealed that she had died by suicide. It is with utterly broken hearts that we announce that Virginia passed away last night at her farm in Western Australia, Giuffres family said in a statement. She lost her life to suicide, after being a lifelong victim of sexual abuse and sex trafficking. Five years since Andrews disastrous and somewhat bizarre interview with Emily Maitlis, a worrying picture of his accuser was emerging. As the crash story made headlines around the world, Ross Munns, the school bus driver involved in the collision, disputed her account of the incident, saying she had blown [it] out of proportion and referring to the incident as a minor collision. West Australian police also confirmed that there were no reported injuries following the incident, which occurred in Neergabby, 20km north of Perth. Details also emerged that Giuffre had recently become estranged from Robert, her husband of 22 years. A Western Australia courts spokesperson also confirmed that she had been charged with breaching a family violence restraining order for an alleged incident that took place in Ocean Reef, near Perth, on 2 February. open image in gallery Giuffre pictured in 2019, arriving for a hearing in the criminal case against Jeffrey Epstein ( Reuters ) It was a far cry from the image of a happy couple who were living a blissful life in that quiet corner of Australia. The then-19-year-old Virginia Roberts met Robert Giuffre, a martial arts expert, in Thailand in 2002, after Epstein paid for her to fly to Asia to do a massage course. They married 10 days after meeting, and, after a few peripatetic years, chose the sleepy Ocean Reef suburb as their home in December 2020. In December 2023, under photographs of the pair cuddling, she wrote: Twenty-one years ago this amazing man rescued me from Epstein [and] Maxwells clutches. I thank God every day for putting this beautiful man in my life! The image Giuffre projected was of living in this beach enclave, looking after her pets, doing yoga and baking cakes a lifestyle which once saw her dubbed the Duchess of Ocean Reef. Few, then, would recognise the picture of domestic distress that was slowly coming to light. open image in gallery Giuffre claimed the picture showing her bruised face was only meant for her private Facebook ( Virginia Giuffre/Instagram ) More than two decades after she was preyed upon by Epstein and Maxwell, who hired her when she was working as a locker-room attendant at Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort, Giuffre had become a polarising figure. For some she was a cause celebre for sexual assault victims, while others claimed she was always a troubled fantasist. Even before last months bizarre events, commenters were writing on her Instagram post, claiming she had lied. This sentiment was echoed by Lady Victoria Hervey, who briefly dated Andrew in 1999, when she waded into the saga on social media. open image in gallery The photo of a young Giuffre (then Virginia Roberts) with Maxwell and Prince Andrew, both of whom have claimed the image is fake ( PA ) KARMA, wrote the 48-year-old over Giuffres hospital selfie, adding Europes 1986 glam rock smash The Final Countdown as background music. She then went on to call Giuffre the queen of the fake photo and accused her of inventing her accusations, as well as her injuries. She claimed to have heard from reliable sources that the FBI was preparing to arrest Giuffre, and that it was almost time to celebrate her downfall. Giuffre was strolling in a beachside market when she received the call from her lawyer in July 2019 that confirmed Epstein had finally been charged with sex crimes in New York. As Giuffre explained in a rare interview in December 2021, she chose to first tell her story publicly in 2011 after the birth of her daughter a year earlier. Giuffre, who also has two teenage sons, told The Cut: I dont want my little girl growing up in a world that is so vicious. open image in gallery Concerns were voiced about Giuffres mental health after the posts ( @virginiarobertsrising11/Instagram ) She went on to set up a charity, Speak Out, Act, Reclaim (Soar), to which Prince Andrew made a donation. Many credited her bravery for helping them to come forward about their own stories of abuse and for creating a supportive network of fellow victims. However, the speculation around the veracity of her claims never fully went away. Indeed, the unsealing of a cache of documents last year included a 2016 deposition in which she contradicted an earlier report that she had once flown to Epsteins private island with former US president Bill Clinton. Although Giuffre was quoted in a Daily Mail article in 2011 saying she had met Clinton twice and had flown to the Caribbean with him in a helicopter when she was 17, in the deposition she says she was never in a helicopter with Clinton and that her conversation with the Mail journalist was taken out of context. open image in gallery Giuffre received a reported 12m from Andrew in an out-of-court settlement ( US District Court ) The documents were originally filed as part of a defamation lawsuit brought in 2015 by Giuffre against Ghislaine Maxwell, who was found guilty of helping Epstein sexually abuse young girls and sentenced to 20 years in prison in June 2022. While legal experts acknowledge that victims of abuse and trauma can get dates and details wrong in testimony, multiple media investigations have disputed claims Giuffre has made dating back to her childhood. However, the fact remains that Epstein was facing trial at the time of his death and Maxwell has been convicted for her crimes. However, the headlines about the crash painted a more confusing and worrying picture of how Giuffres life was unravelling. In Australia, 9News Perth reported that Giuffre admitted herself to Joondalup Health Campus in Perth with a pre-existing injury immediately after the car collision. She was discharged the following day. We were then told that she was taken to Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital by ambulance and was seeking treatment for pain. Its understood she was discharged shortly afterwards. Another television outlet, 7News, reported that Giuffres heavy bruising was the result of a fall. The 71-year-old who was driving the vehicle in which Giuffre was travelling at the time of the crash is also reported to be a carer, adding to the mystery of Giuffres mental and physical condition. Whether Giuffre was deeply troubled after the breakdown of her marriage or continued to suffer as a result of the abuse she endured in her youth, her death will no doubt raise even more questions about one of the murkiest episodes to envelop the royal family. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump announced wide-reaching tariffs against many U.S. trade partners on Wednesday but the list inexplicably includes a series of uninhabited islands near Antarctica. The Trump administration has placed a 10 percent reciprocal tariff on the Heard and McDonald Islands, which are external territories of Australia near Antarctica, home to penguins, seals and glaciers. The islands are entirely uninhabited by humans and only accessible via a two-week voyage from Perth via a boat. Nowhere on Earth is safe, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Thursday. The White House did not immediately respond to The Independents request for information on why Trump chose to target uninhabited islands. open image in gallery Penguins stand on Heard Island, an uninhabited Australian territory that President Donald Trump has targeted with tariffs ( AUSTRALIAN ANTARCTIC DIVISION/AF ) Norfolk Island, a tiny volcanic outcrop in the South Pacific, also found itself on Trumps list. The move has left the islands 2,188 residents scratching their heads, a mixture of amusement and bewilderment rippling through the community. For Richard Cottle, owner of a local concrete-mixing business, the explanation is simple: "It was just a mistake." The island, located roughly 600 miles off eastern Australia, boasts a limited export trade, primarily Kentia palm seeds, the value of which falls well below $1million annually, and mostly shipped to Europe. open image in gallery Australian PM Anthony Albanese was bemused by Norfolk Islands tariff ( EPA ) "Norfolk Island is a little dot in the world," Cottle explained. "We don't export anything." The island's inclusion on the list of territories subject to the tariff, alongside major global economies, highlights the seemingly indiscriminate nature of the new trade measures. Dozens of other small territories, similarly lacking significant manufacturing or export industries, also found themselves unexpectedly targeted. Some, like the Heard and McDonald Islands in the Antarctic, which like Norfolk Island is overseen by Australia, did not even have human inhabitants. No matter - as of Thursday, they faced a 10 per cent tariff for exports to the U.S. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, on the campaign trail ahead of an election in a month, told the media his country did better than most with a tariff of 10 per cent - half of what the EU was hit with and one-third of what China got - but he had no explanation for Norfolk Island. "Last time I looked, Norfolk Island was a part of Australia," he told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. The separate, higher tariff "was somewhat unexpected and a bit strange", he added. open image in gallery Norfolk Island has a population of just 2,188 ( AFP via Getty Images ) According to U.S. government data, the U.S. has recorded trade deficits with Norfolk Island for the past three years. The island exported $300,000 worth of goods to the U.S. in 2022, $700,000 in 2023 and $200,000 in 2024. Its imports from the U.S. stayed at $100,000 in those years. Norfolk Island's imports from the U.S. peaked at $11.7 million in 2020, when no exports were recorded. The data did not specify what goods were traded. Other Norfolk Island business owners could think of no manufacturing industry on the island, and added that its main industry by far was tourism. One pest control business owner, who asked not to be named, said that although they did not export to the U.S., they imported some rodent bait from the U.S. via Australia. "Products from Norfolk Island are going to have a 29 per cent tariff? Well, there is no product, so it's not going to have an effect," said Gye Duncan, who owns a tax consultancy on the island. "They probably don't even know where Norfolk Island is in the world. It's just probably an anomaly." On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trumps latest tariff hikes on U.S. imports are compelling countries and industries to scramble for footing in a time of potential upheavals in global trade. As world markets wallowed in more heavy losses Friday, Taiwans president promised to provide support to industries most vulnerable to the 32% tariffs Trump ordered in his Liberation Day reciprocal tariffs announcement. China responded to the 34% tariffs imposed by the U.S. on imports from China by announcing it will impose a 34% tariff on imports of all U.S. products beginning April 10. Vietnam said its deputy prime minister would visit the U.S. for talks on trade. Some, like the head of the EU's European Commission, have vowed to fight back while promising to improve the rules book for free trade. Others said they were hoping to negotiate with the Trump administration for relief. Seize the day India was hit by a 26% tariff rate, lower than the 34% for Chinese exports and 46% for Vietnam. Its Commerce Ministry that it was studying the opportunities that may arise due to this new development in U.S. trade policy. It said talks were underway on a trade agreement, including deepening supply chain integration. The U.S was New Delhis biggest trading partner in 2024 with two-way trade estimated at $129 billion, according to U.S. data. They have set an ambitious target of more than doubling their bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. Most pharmaceuticals and other medicines, important Indian exports to the U.S., are exempt from the reciprocal tariffs. However, diamonds and other gems, another major export industry, are subject to the higher duties. Business groups said they viewed the challenge as a chance to improve India's competitiveness. At a time when global trade dynamics are shifting rapidly, Indian exporters must be equipped with the right policies, strategies, and support to compete effectively," S.C. Ralkan, head of the Federation of Indian Export Organizations, said in a statement. We need to talk Most U.S. trading partners have emphasized they hope negotiations can help resolve trade friction with Washington. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said he was prepared to fly to Washington, in a last-ditch effort to forestall the 24% tariffs Trump ordered for exports from the biggest Asian U.S. ally. The global trading system has serious deficiencies, the president of the EU's European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said Thursday while on a visit to Uzbekistan. But she chided Trump, saying that reaching for tariffs as your first and last tool will not fix it. This is why from the onset we have always been ready to negotiate with the United States. In Italy, Premier Giorgia Meloni told state TV she believes the 20% U.S. tariffs on exports from Europe were wrong, but it is not the catastrophe that some are making it out to be. Her government planned to meet next week with representatives of affected sectors to formulate plans. We need to open an honest discussion on the matter with the Americans, with the goal, at least from my point of view, of removing tariffs, not multiplying them, Meloni said. Vietnam's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Pham Thu Hang, said Hanoi would keep talking with the U.S. to find practical solutions as 46% U.S. tariffs threatened to decimate exports of footwear, electronics, textiles and seafood. If enforced, would negatively impact bilateral economic and trade relations as well as the interests of businesses and people in both countries, Hang said in comments cited by state-run media, which reported that the deputy prime ninister and former finance minister Ho Duc Phoc was scheduled to visit the U.S. for trade talks next week. A helping hand Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said he will offer the greatest support to industries most impacted by the new tariffs. Taiwan's trade surplus with the U.S. is relatively high partly because the island is a major source of computer chips and other advanced technology. Lai said in a statement on his Facebook page that We feel that this is unreasonable and are also worried about the subsequent impact these measures may have on the global economy. Lai said he instructed Premier Cho Jung-tai to work closely with industries that are impacted and to communicate with the public about their plans to stabilize the economy. Japan's leader Ishiba and other governments also said they were preparing countermeasures to help industries cope. Likewise, von der Leyen said the EU was consulting with steel and auto makers, pharmaceutical companies and other industries about how to give them more breathing space. Looking elsewhere Trump's decision to sharply raise tariffs on countries spanning the globe is self-defeating, Wang Huiyao, president of the Chinese think tank Center for China and Globalization, said in an interview. The latest tariffs impose heavy burdens on some countries in Latin America, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. It's a trade war with the world, Wang said, while China's strategy is to trade more with Southeast Asia and Latin America, with Europe, the Middle East and other developing nations. The likely outcome is that China will become the largest trading nation and its economy will be trading more with other nations and the U.S. may ... become more isolated, Wang said. Europe will work to build more bridges and as a regional economic bloc of 450 million people, larger than the United States, it also has its own huge market, said von der Leyen, the EC president. The EU is its own safe harbor in tumultuous times, she said. ___ AP journalists from around the world contributed. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trump has demanded that France free far-right leader Marine Le Pen as he labelled her ban from running for office a witch hunt. Le Pen was found guilty of embezzling EU funds to pay party staff in a court ruling in Paris earlier this week. The National Rally leader, once a frontrunner in the polls for Frances 2027 presidential election, has now been banned from standing having been handed a four-year prison sentence, two years of which will be served under house arrest and the other two suspended. Le Pen denied all the charges against her. Taking to his social media platform Truth Social, the US president described the court case as another example of European Leftists using Lawfare to silence Free Speech and censor their Political Opponent, this time going so far as to put that Opponent in prison. The 56-year-old leader of Frances National Rally party, set up as the National Front by her father Jean-Marie Le Pen in 1972, was also fined $100,000. Although the ban from public office begins immediately, the jail sentence and fine will only be confirmed once Le Pen has exhausted her appeals against the ruling. open image in gallery Marine Le Pen leaves the National Rally headquarters following her conviction ( AP ) Earlier this week, Mr Trump compared himself to Le Pen, describing her ban from holding public office as a very big deal and likening it to his own experience with the courts. The situation in France sounds very much like this country, he told reporters in the Oval Office. Mr Trump has consistently presented himself as the target of a government-led witch hunt and politically driven prosecutions. It is the same playbook that was used against me by a group of Lunatics and Losers, Mr Trump wrote in his latest post on Truth Social. They spent the last nine years thinking of nothing else, and they FAILED. I dont know Marine Le Pen, but do appreciate how hard she worked for so many years. She suffered losses, but kept on going, and now, just before what would be a Big Victory, they get her on a minor charge that she probably knew nothing about. open image in gallery Trump compared the case to his own indictments in the US courts ( Reuters ) The president added that it is all so bad for France and the Great French People, before signing off the post with FREE MARINE LE PEN! Judge Benedicte de Perthuis said Le Pens actions had amounted to a serious and lasting attack on the rules of democratic life in Europe, but especially in France. Le Pen stormed out of the court midway through the verdict on Monday. She was driven away from the courthouse, before later taking part in a television interview in which she decried the ruling as a political decision and claimed that the rule of law [had been] completely violated. Le Pen is the latest in a series of European hardline politicians for whom Mr Trump has expressed support, including figures in Romania, Hungary, and Germanys AfD party. Close Zelensky condemns Russian strikes on hometown: Diplomacy means nothing to them On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Ukrainian team will visit Washington this week for crunch talks on a minerals deal, the first visit since the deal collapsed in dramatic fashion five weeks ago. Volodymyr Zelensky was set to sign a framework agreement in late February before he was booted out of the White House, when a furious Donald Trump berated the Ukrainian president for not being thankful enough for US war assistance. Since then, teams from Kyiv and Washington have been working to hash out a revised agreement - and to rebuild a broken relationship. Washington has proposed a more expansive minerals deal which could give it access to valuable mineral resources, including titanium, lithium, and uranium, according to economy minister Yuliia Svyrydenko. But the deal has not yet been agreed by Ukraine and it is unclear exactly how close the two sides are to reaching an agreement. Meanwhile, Mr Trump has urged Russia to stop bombing Ukraine, after a ballistic missile strike in Kryvyi Rih killed 20, including nine children., We are talking to Russia. We would like them to stop, Trump told reporters onboard Air Force One. I dont like the bombing, the bombing goes on and on, and every week thousands of young people being killed. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The US will know within weeks whether Vladimir Putin is serious about peace, US secretary of state Marco Rubio has said with Washingtons Nato allies accusing Russia of stalling ceasefire efforts. Donald Trump and his White House officials have reportedly become wary of Russian autocrat Vladimir Putins commitment to peace in Ukraine - despite the US president having insisted for weeks that Putin was serious about reaching a truce. Speaking at the end of a two-day meeting of Nato foreign ministers, Mr Rubio said: "We will know soon enough, in a matter of weeks, not months, whether Russia is serious about peace or not. I hope they are. "If this is dragging things out, President Trump's not going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations about negotiations," Mr Rubio said. open image in gallery Mr Rubio has been meeting fellow Nato foreign ministers in Brussels ( via REUTERS ) The 53-year-old, who had been meeting his Nato counterparts amid straining relations between the US and its European allies over issues relating to both security and international trade, said the US is testing to see if the Russians are interested in peace. Their actions - not their words, their actions - will determine whether they're serious or not, and we intend to find that out sooner rather than later, Mr Rubio added. Moscow recently rejected the proposal agreed between the Trump administration and Kyiv for a 30-day ceasefire. The two parties later agreed to a limited pause in attacks on each others energy infrastructure - which they have accused each other of violating - and a partial truce on attacks in the Black Sea. And Russian attacks on civilian areas in Ukraine have been ongoing ever since ceasefire discussions began. open image in gallery Four people were killed in an attack on Kharkiv ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) At least four people were killed after Russia launched an overnight attack on the northeastern city of Kharkiv, Ukrainian officials said. Regional authorities said 35 people, including three children, were injured in the fourth such strike on Kharkiv so far this week. Dramatic images show fires blazing in the city following the attack, and rescue teams sifted through rubble throughout the night. The Russian drones hit residential quarters, damaging several multi-storey apartment blocks and causing multiple fires. "As of this morning, unfortunately, there are already four dead. The body of one more person killed by the Russian aggressor has been (removed) from the rubble," Mayor Ihor Terekhov said on Telegram. "We also have 35 wounded." European countries have now demanded that Moscow prove its commitment to peace by signing up to a ceasefire, with some countries calling for an official date to be set. open image in gallery Russian attacks have continued since ceasefire efforts continued ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Russia owes an answer to the United States which had worked very hard to come up with a mediation effort and a ceasefire proposal, French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot said. British foreign minister David Lammy accused Putin of continuing to obfuscate and drag his feet. Mr Lammy added: "He could accept a ceasefire now, he continues to bombard Ukraine, its civilian population, its energy supplies. We see you, Vladimir Putin, we know what you are doing. German foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Putin's talk of negotiations was "nothing but empty promises" and the Russian leader was "playing for time by raising ever new demands". A senior US State Department official said there was no timeline as it stands but that there was a recognition that the sooner the better. They added: "There was consensus that Russia needs to do more, that Russia should agree to a ceasefire." On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice At least 27 Palestinians were killed when the Israeli military struck a school in northern Gaza on Thursday, according to the Strips Hamas-run health ministry, marking another day of over 100 casualties in the besieged territory. The death toll was expected to rise as some of the 70 wounded had sustained critical injuries and were receiving treatment in local hospitals already overwhelmed with the influx of casualties, officials said. The strike targeted the Dar al-Arqam school in the Tuffah area of Gaza City which had been turned into a shelter for people displaced by Israels 18-month war on Gaza. Health ministry spokesperson Zaher al-Wahidi said the bodies of 14 children and five women had been recovered from the rubble. Graphic videos from Al-Ahli Arab Hospital showed injured children crying as they were rushed in cars and trucks, some with serious injuries. Hamas denounced the school strike as a "heinous massacre" of innocent civilians and a new brutal crime. open image in gallery A young Palestinian girl injured in Israels bombing of a school is brought for a treatment at the Baptist Hospital in Gaza City on Thursday ( AP ) The Israeli military claimed it had struck a "Hamas command and control centre" in Gaza City. It said steps had been taken before the strike to mitigate harm to civilians. Israel had offered the same reason striking a Hamas "command and control centre" for bombing a United Nations building used as a shelter a day earlier, which health officials said killed at least 17 people. Mahmoud Bassal of Gaza's Civil Defence Agency said women and children accounted for the majority of the casualties from the strike on the Dar al-Arqam school. He said a woman heavily pregnant with twins was missing, along with her husband and other family members. Another 97 people were killed over the past 24 hours as Israeli forces bombed homes and shelters in the Palestinian territory, according to health officials. open image in gallery Palestinians injured in an Israeli airstrike are brought for treatment at the Baptist Hospital in Gaza City on Thursday ( AP ) Stepping up its offensive, the Israeli military ordered more residents in northern Gaza to move west and south to shelters, warning that it planned to "work with extreme force in your area. A number of Palestinians leaving the targeted areas did so on foot, with some carrying their belongings on their backs and others using donkey carts. Mohammad Ermana, 72, and his wife said they had been looking for shelters every hour now, not every day. "My wife and I have been walking for three hours covering only one kilometre," he said as he walked with his wifes hand in his, each walking with a cane. open image in gallery A man rushes a wounded Palestinian child to Al-Ahli Arab Hospital after an Israeli strike hit a school in the al-Tuffah neighbourhood in Gaza City ( AFP via Getty ) In the southern city of Khan Younis, at least 14 people, including five children and four women, were killed and their bodies were taken to the Nasser Hospital. The bodies of another 19 people, including five children aged between 1 and 7 years and a pregnant woman, were moved to the European hospital near Khan Younis, officials said. In Gaza City, 21 bodies were taken to Al-Ahli hospital, including those of seven children. Later in the day, Israeli strikes killed four more people in Khan Younis, according to Nasser Hospital, and another two people in central Gaza. The death toll in Gaza continued to rise even as the Israeli military promised an independent investigation into its 23 March killing of 15 Palestinian medics and emergency responders. UN officials said Israeli soldiers had buried the medics and their ambulances in a mass grave. Israel initially claimed its soldiers had targeted the ambulances because they were suspicious vehicles and killed nine militants in the process. open image in gallery Palestinians inspect a UN building after it was hit by an Israeli strike, in Jabaliya, northern Gaza Strip on Wednesday ( AP ) The military said the investigation would be led by an expert fact-finding body "responsible for examining exceptional incidents" during the war. Rights groups said such investigations were often found lacking and that troops were rarely punished. The head of the Palestine Red Crescent Society, Younes Al-Khatib, said on Thursday he believed some of the medics were still alive when they were captured by Israeli forces. The societys radio dispatchers heard a conversation in Hebrew between medics and Israeli soldiers after the ambulances had come under fire, Al-Khatib told members of the UN Security Council. Israels war on Gaza has killed over 50,000 Palestinians, including hundreds since a ceasefire ended last month. The war began after nearly 1,200 people were killed, most of them civilians, and 251 taken hostage during a Hamas attack on southern Israel in October 2023. open image in gallery Palestinians make their way with belongings as they flee their homes, after the Israeli army issued evacuation orders, in the Shujaiya neighborhood of Gaza City ( REUTERS ) The UN humanitarian office said about 280,000 Palestinians had been displaced since Israel ended the ceasefire with Hamas last month. After ending the ceasefire, Israel imposed a blockade on food, fuel and critical humanitarian aid entering Gaza, leaving civilians facing acute shortages a tactic that rights groups say is a war crime. Hamas says it will only release the remaining 59 hostages 24 of whom are believed to be alive in exchange for more Palestinian prisoners, a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli military pullout from Gaza. It has rejected demands to lay down its arms or leave the territory. An investigation by The Independent found evidence of abuse, torture and deaths of Palestinian detainees, including some of Gazas most renowned medics, in Israels jails. A woman found guilty of breaching an abortion clinic buffer zone has claimed freedom of expression in the UK is in a "state of crisis." Livia Tossici-Bolt, 64, of Bournemouth, was found guilty at Poole Magistrates Court of two charges of breaching the Public Spaces Protection Order on two days in March 2023 and handed a two-year conditional discharge. She had held a sign saying "Here to talk, if you want" outside a clinic in Bournemouth. Tossici-Bolt, leader of the Bournemouth branch of the "40 Days for Life" anti-abortion group, was ordered to pay 20,000 towards court costs and a 26 victim surcharge. Temporary tent hospitals have been set up across Myanmar to treat earthquake victims as many local medical facilities are damaged or overwhelmed with injured. In the capital Naypyitaw, dozens of Bhutanese health workers joined forces with military medic workers to look after the injured patients at a makeshift hospital made out of tents. The World Health Organization warned of a potential outbreak of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and hepatitis. This earthquake has deepened the suffering of communities already battling displacement, fragile health systems, and limited access to basic services said Dr Thushara Fernando, WHO Representative to Myanmar. The most common type of attack seen in Ireland is cyber extortion. Photo: Getty Irish businesses are growing increasingly concerned about the rise in cyber crime, with one in eight businesses having suffered a financial loss due to a cyber attack in the last five years. Where Michelin-star chefs go to eat a curry: I think its some of the best food of any kind being served in Ireland right now I may not have a joint bank account, but all my money is my own the financial perks of being single Pictured at the launch of the River Blackwater Catchment Programme: Orlaith Tynan, Head of Sustainability and Environmental Strategy, Dairygold, Dairygold Milk Supplier, Kevin Twomey, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon with Billy Cronin, Head of Member Services and Engagement, Dairygold on the Twomey family farm, the Blackwater Valley. Picture: Clare Keogh At the launch of the River Blackwater Catchment Programme were Frank OMara, Director, Teagasc, Billy Cronin, Head of Member Services and Engagement, Dairygold, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, Michael Harte, Chief Executive, Dairygold, Orlaith Tynan, Head of Sustainability and Environmental Strategy, Dairygold, Pat Clancy, Chairperson, Dairygold, Anthony Coleman, Director of Shared Services, LAWPRO pictured on the Twomey family farm, the Blackwater Valley.Picture: Clare Keogh A programme to improve the water quality in the River Blackwater catchment area was officially launched on Thursday. The River Blackwater Catchment Programme is a collaboration led by Dairygold, and includes Teagasc and the Local Authority Water Programme (LAWPRO), as well as with other industry stakeholders such as Dairy Industry Ireland, Meat Industry Ireland, Irish Grain Growers, ABP, Dawn Meats, Kepak, Kerry Co-op, North Cork Creameries and Tirlan on a series of combined projects, actions and activities to engage farmers and processors and implement best farm practices to improve water quality. The three-year programme was launched by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon, who said the collaboration between the various industries in the area is great to see. Raising awareness and fostering a collective approach among farmers, processors, and industry stakeholders is crucial to achieving real and lasting change. This programme presents a huge opportunity for all parties involved to play a pivotal role in driving positive and long-lasting change across a huge swathe of one of Irelands most fertile regions, Mr Heydon said. The River Blackwater is 170km in length and has a catchment area that serves over 1,000 homes over approximately 3,310km2. Chief Executive of Dairygold, Michael Harte said improving water quality is key to the success of Irish agriculture. The River Blackwater and its tributaries are an important source of fresh water in the catchment and we believe it is vitally important that we do all we can to protect and enhance it. The River Blackwater Catchment Programme is an excellent opportunity for us to demonstrate what can be achieved when we work together, he said. The programme will be underpinned by Teagascs Better Farming for Water campaign which identifies 8 Actions for Change farmers can take to enhance water quality. Frank OMara, Director at Teagasc said: Teagasc is delighted to support the River Blackwater Catchment Programme. A key element of this programme will be the implementation of the Teagasc Better Farming for Water 8 Actions for Change, which provides practical, science-based solutions to help farmers adopt best practices for improved water quality. The programme will also be supported by Local Authority Waters Programmes (LAWPRO) Farming for Water European Innovation Partnership (EIP). Director of Shared Services at LAWPRO, Anthony Coleman said: The Farming for Water EIP Project, a 60 million European Innovation Partnership scheme, will provide funding to farmers across the Blackwater and other catchments to implement a variety of measures aimed at improving water quality. We look forward to working with our programme partners and farmers in supporting better sustainability across the River Blackwater Catchment, he added. About 45,000 people are currently seeking Irish citizenship under the grandparent or parent rule, according to official figures. However, the Department of Foreign Affairs said waiting times for foreign-birth registered applications to be processed has reduced significantly over the past year. The system allows the descendants of Irish people who have moved abroad to claim Irish citizenship. People based in England currently account for the largest number of applicants, with about 16,500 seeking Irish citizenship. The second-highest number comes from the US with 11,300, followed by Scotland and Canada (1,400 each) and Australia (1,300). There are also 800 applications from claimants currently based in Ireland as well as 600 each from New Zealand and South Africa. Other countries with 100 or more applications for Irish citizenship are Germany, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Switzerland, the UAE, Wales and the Channel Islands. The Department of Foreign Affairs, Iveagh House Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 4th Individuals who are born outside Ireland can claim citizenship if one of their grandparents was born in Ireland. People can also become an Irish citizen if one of their parents was an Irish citizen at the time of the applicants birth, even if the parent was not born in Ireland. Foreign birth registration, by its nature, is a detailed and complex process Similarly, individuals born outside Ireland can gain Irish citizenship through a parent who has obtained citizenship through naturalisation or post-nuptial citizenship. In reply to a parliamentary question by Social Democrats TD for Kildare North Aidan Farrelly, Tanaiste Simon Harris said the time taken to process foreign birth registration applications was currently nine months. Mr Harris said the average waiting time had reduced from over two-and-a-half years in 2023. This improvement is a result of the investment of significant extra resources to the foreign birth registration unit over the past two years, he said. Foreign birth registration, by its nature, is a detailed and complex process, often involving official documentation relating to three generations and issued by several jurisdictions. Such documents take considerable time to validate. Applications are processed in the order in which they are submitted. Processing time begins when all supporting documents are received by the Passport Service, and applications that require further supporting documentation will take longer to process. The Department of Foreign Affairs said 36,000 applications were currently being processed by the Passport Service, with documentation awaited from 9,000 other applicants. Barry George, the man whose conviction for the murder of English television presenter Jill Dando was overturned, intends to sue a number of media outlets in Ireland for defamation over recent articles about him. By Akbar Novruz The sixth meeting of the Azerbaijan-Moldova joint intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation, along with a business forum, will take place in Baku on April 11. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, preparations for the event were discussed during a meeting between Azerbaijani Agriculture Minister Majnun Mammadov and Moldovan Ambassador to Azerbaijan Alexander Esaulenko. The two sides explored ways to expand the legal and contractual framework for cooperation in agriculture, increase trade in agricultural and food products, and promote the transfer of modern agricultural technologies. They also discussed launching experimental programs in scientific research and education within the sector. Additionally, both parties exchanged views on broader cooperation prospects in energy, transport, education, tourism, and other fields, including signed agreements and potential future deals. Can I get a cut, blow-dry and a crash course in climate please? That could be the request in salons across the country under a scheme that aims to train hairdressers and barbers to get conversations going about one of the most hair-raising issues facing humanity. A Brush With Climate is inspired by a movement that started in Sydney, Australia when a salon owner looked to see how to use their renowned conversational skills to get chats going about solutions to the climate crisis. Four towns are to be chosen under the pilot scheme with local hairdressers and barbers invited to become involved. University College Cork is overseeing the project and Dr Maria Kirrane of the universitys office of sustainability said the idea was to tap into places where chat flowed naturally. Hairdressers and barbers not only provide a service for people, they are a real hub for conversation and social spaces within a community, Dr Kirrane said. Their reach is broad and gives the possibility of reaching a cohort of people that may not be involved in local environmental groups and the usual pathways of climate conversation and action. The relationship between client and hairdresser is a deeply personal and trusting one. UCC is also trusting the professionals to say how best the scheme should work in their own salons. So over the next couple of months there will be workshops to decide what kind of approach is best. The idea is not to scare off a client who just wants to enjoy a bit of banter and gossip with their hairdo while at the same time providing an outlet for those curious and concerned about climate to get information and advice. The participants will also practice how to counteract some of the myths and misunderstandings that people have about climate change and how to help turn negative attitudes into positive action. Information about local initiatives and national schemes will also be part of the training pack brought to the job. The Australian initiative led to the creation of the Sustainable Salons network and website that offers lots of tips and training materials on how to steer conversations from celebrities to sustainability when the opportunity arises. The Brush With Climate scheme is being supported by a 63,000 grant from the Research Ireland Discover Programme funded by the Department of Education. Between 15 to 31 cases of typhoid infection are reported in Ireland annually with 72 patients hospitalised over the last five years, according to a new report. Travellers to Pakistan, Afghanistan and other countries where typhoid is endemic should be encouraged to avail of vaccination before travel and take precautions with hand hygiene, food and drink while abroad to minimise risk of catching typhoid fever, according to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC). Some of the drugs that were discovered yesterday morning Gardai have seized 110,000 worth of cocaine following a search of a public space in Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Gardai from the Dun Laoghaire Community Engagement area carried out a search operation as part of ongoing operations targeting the sale and supply of drugs yesterday morning. During searches of a public space in the Monkstown Farm area, gardai seized cocaine with an estimated value of 110,000 subject to analysis and cannabis worth 260 along with various drug paraphernalia, a Garda spokesperson said. The drugs seized will be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis. Gardai added that no arrests have been made at this time, although investigations are ongoing. Paschal Donohoe tells CNN all EU finance ministers agreed on need for 'unified' response to changing trade policy Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe has appeared on CNN to discuss the upcoming meeting between EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and US president Donald Trump. Mr Donohoe has just completed chairing a meeting of EU Economic and Financial Affairs Ministers in Warsaw. He said: The tone that came out of our meeting in Warsaw was a commitment to engage with the United States, to bring certainty to global trade by trying to avoid a path of lower growth, less jobs and higher prices and a determination of all member states of the European Union to approach this negotiation in a unified way and engage in a way that reflects the scale of the economy of the European Union." The European Trade commissioner will travel to the US on Sunday to negotiate tariffs levels with president Trump. Mr Donohoe said: We are willing to engage with president Trump to identify an alternative trade arrangement to where we are at the moment that would cover off many parts of our economy and aim to find ways to lower barriers to trade." While Mr Donohoe did not reveal the propositions the negotiation team will bring forward, he did reference the need to define the status of VAT. He said: There are dangers engaging with negotiations in public given the sensitivity of these issues. But if you look at the issue of VAT, it is an important tax within the European Union and critically treats all goods the same. "I don't accept that VAT in someway differentiates between products that are created within the European Union and products that are brought into the European Union because they tax both of them in the same way." European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen has also spoken of the potential for the European Union to tax tech giants such as Meta, X and Facebooks revenue from digital advertising. In response to this Mr Donohoe said: We support the work commission is doing on our behalf, but these are potential countermeasures - we must do all we can to avoid these measures. "The commission has also referred to the need to respond back in a graduated, proportionate , careful manner. However, we must leave all measures on the table and they must be available to use if our negotiations turn out unsuccessful. "We want the negotiations to be successful but accept that in scenarios that things get even harder difficult measures must be considered." He added: I will not spare any effort in reaching an agreement. The EU is not the cause of the global uncertainty that we are now facing." Sarah O'Mahony I am concerned about trends within Hungary and there are procedures there in terms of dealing with member states who we believe have either transgressed the law or who are not really behaving in the full spirit of EU unity, or indeed adherence to EU treaties, Mr Martin said. Ireland and the US collaborate on casks and barrels, were the best example of working together The Shed distillery owner on Donald Trumps tariffs With 100 Champions League staff and innovative founders, the Drumshanbo distillery still has ambitious plans How one leading Irish gin distiller plans to combat Trump's tariffs Laura Lynott Fri 4 Apr 2025 at 03:30 Owner of The Shed distillery in Drumshanbo, Pat J Rigney said 20pc trade tariffs are significant, with the US accounting for 35pc of the business. Businesses in Northern Ireland are anxious about the effect Donald Trumps tariff announcements will have, First Minister Michelle ONeill has said. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly added that it is important for any retaliatory EU tariffs on the US not to penalise the North. Tanaiste Simon Harris said there is a need to examine the implications of a tariffs differential on the island. Mr Trump implemented a 10pc tariff on the UK, effective from tomorrow. Northern Irish goods will be covered by the UK rate. He also announced a 20pc tariff on the European Union. If the EU announces retaliatory measures, it could have an impact on goods coming into Northern Ireland from the US, as it still follows EU trading rules due to the post-Brexit Windsor Framework. The implications of the US announcement were discussed by Stormont ministers at an Executive meeting yesterday. Ms ONeill said: There is no doubt that the US market is an important market for us all, particularly across this island and these islands. What has been announced yesterday is concerning, it creates instability, it is very much a race to the bottom. It doesnt serve anybodys interests and I think it creates a period of uncertainty and instability in terms of the economy here. It is still an unfolding situation. In terms of the detail on what next, it remains to be seen. First Minister Michelle O'Neill What do Donald Trumps tariffs mean for Ireland and how best can the EU react? Mr Harris said he would be in regular contact with Stormonts leaders on the consequences of most Northern Ireland exports to the US being subject to a 10pc tariff while most goods exported from the Republic to the US will have a 20pc tariff. He said this would create huge complexities for products with a cross-border dimension to their production. He said the issues were similar to those from the Brexit debate around maintaining a frictionless land border on the island of Ireland. This does seem like a bit of a throwback to conversations we had in the past, where you have two different realities on the island of Ireland, Mr Harris told RTE Radio 1. At the moment, theres a 10pc tariff on UK goods and a 20pc tariff on European goods, of which Ireland is a part. And therefore, theres a 10pc differential. Now, being very honest, theres a lot of work going on in real time to tease through this. In terms of agri-food, for example, my understanding is that if it came to whiskey, youd fill out the custom form before it goes to the US, so thats quite clear. But if you look at things like dairy, theres huge complexities. Stuff that goes out from the north could be listed as coming from the south. So we need to tease these things through and, being quite frank, its for the United States, whove decided to do this differential, to outline their understanding, he added. More than 50 firefighters are currently at the scene of a large gorse fire in Co Antrim. 10 acres of land are ablaze with crews tackling a fire front of 200m. The NIFRS responded to the incident shortly after 4pm today. Seven fire appliances are in attendance at the ongoing incident in the Lisboy Road area of Ballymoney. Locals are requested to avoid the area to help support firefighting operations. A spokesman from the NIFRS said: Following an initial call just after 4pm on Friday, April 4, 2025, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service has been tackling a wildfire on Lisboy Road, Ballymoney of approximately 10 acres with a fire front of 200metres. Seven fire appliances and 51 firefighters are in attendance from Ballymoney, Ballymena, Ballycastle, Coleraine and Maghera Fire Stations supported by a Command Support Unit and other specialist vehicles. It comes after a number gorse fires have swept across parts of the Northern Irish countryside in the past week as the spell of dry weather continues. Earlier this week NIFRS said they believed some have been sparked deliberately. On April 2 NIFRS extinguished a 10-acre gorse fire in the Sperrin Mountains. A day prior the fire service responded to a gorse fire covering 25 acres in Warrenpoint which was ignited deliberately. Meanwhile, the PSNI have said that officers have been deployed to undergo additional patrols in the Mournes Mountain area. Encompassing almost 9000 acres of land, the natural beauty spot will be under watch from officers in 4x4 vehicles, motorcycles, quads as well as aerial support. District Commander Superintendent Norman Haslett said: Gorse fires can cause untold damage and in an area of outstanding natural beauty like the Mournes, this is particularly devastating, not to mention the risk to life and property that they pose. We have been implementing additional preventative patrolling in the area, deploying officers on vehicles like 4x4s, motorcycles and our quad bike which can access more remote areas. We have also been utilising Air Support to give us an aerial overview of the mountains. Wildfires are completely avoidable and are more often than not, they are caused by human activity - whether this is through carelessness and inattention, or deliberate and malicious fire setting. They are devastating to the environment and ultimately risk the lives of people in the local area and those of the emergency services tasked to deal with them. "Deliberately setting a wildfire is a criminal offence for which you can be prosecuted. We work closely with our colleagues in the Fire Service in dealing with these fires and where it is found that a fire has been maliciously set, it will be fully investigated and when identified, those responsible can expect to be arrested and brought before court. We ask the public to help us prevent wild fires by acting responsibly when in the Mournes, and if anyone has any information about criminal action linked to previous fires, please call us on 101. Tanaiste Simon Harris pleads for reasoned response to Liberation Day measures, expresses concerns over effects on dairy and spirits Ireland has urged the EU to restrict any tariff counter-measures to American luxury goods so as not to provoke further tit-for-tat tariffs that could devastate our agri-food exports. Tanaiste Simon Harris has told the EU trade commissioner that retaliatory EU tariffs on US food and alcohol could result in a disastrous impact on Ireland. This country will try to persuade the EU not to include US drinks brands such as Jack Daniels whiskey in the basket of goods to be targeted in retaliation from next week after Donald Trumps 20pc Liberation Day tariffs announcement. This is because of fears that Trumps response will be a salvo of further impositions against EU wines and spirits, including Irish whiskey when UK-produced Scotch now enjoys a 10pc advantage. It comes as the Taoiseach warned that the imposition of US tariffs on a worldwide scale and at a high level could create recessionary trends across the globe. Micheal Martin said Ireland and the EU will weather this storm, but the tariffs will have an adverse impact. Kerrygold butter is be hit with US tariffs The real problem is, though, the imposition of tariffs on such a wide scale and at a high level across the world will have a dampening effect on investment, and that in itself could create recessionary sort of trends across the world, Mr Martin said. Employers group Ibec also said that while three-quarters of Irish products sold to the US are for now exempt from the tariffs, they could still mean a 4bn to 6bn drop in our exports to the US over the next year. Irish whiskey, led by Jameson, has made huge inroads into the US, to an annual value now of 420m. Irish cream liqueurs and beers make our overall stake in the US market 865m. Meanwhile, nearly 90pc of the EUs 58,000 tonnes of butter exports to the US annually is from Ireland, with Kerrygold the No 2 brand on US shelves. The Tanaiste has now written to EU trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic conveying concerns relating to two key agrifood sectors spirits and dairy. Both are considered essential for the agricultural community in Ireland and broader rural communities, a spokeman said. Asked about contacts with the Commission and other European countries, a Government spokesman said: Were not shy about this. In the letter to Mr Sefcovic who helped Ireland enormously on post-Brexit trade problems Tanaiste and Trade Minister Simon Harris stressed the potential pitfalls of retaliation. US president Donald Trump signs an executive order on tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington DC. Photo: Reuters We are concerned that by targeting specific food and drink products in counter-measures, those categories will become a target for [further] retaliatory measures by the US, Mr Harris wrote. If the US was then to double down with further percentage hikes in specific areas on top of the 20pc already announced then it would have very negative impacts for the EU food and drinks sector as a whole, he added. Eoin O Cathain of the Irish Whiskey Association said: We have engaged extensively with the Irish Government and the European Commission on this issue, requesting that spirits and casks be excluded from any trade dispute. We are heartened to see the importance of our premium product recognised in these discussions. Mr Harris also told Mr Sefcovic that Ireland is uniquely exposed when it comes to pharmaceutical industry and tariffs although the sector has not yet been targeted. Jameson is to be hit with tariffs Mr Harris has pointed out that a number of other EU member states have significant pharma and chemical sectors that may be affected by any tariffs that could be provoked by punitive EU moves on imports from America. The Tanaiste has been warned by officials that if the US proceeds with imposing tariffs on pharmaceuticals, and they remain in place for an extended period, it could encourage a costly regionalisation of supply chains rather than American firms selling back into the US from Ireland. Ireland has 2pc of the EUs population, but accounts for 11pc of the entire blocs exports to the US by value. US exports from Ireland are equivalent to 24pc of gross national income. Having analysed a list of more than 1,000 exempt products, including pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and some critical minerals, Irish employers group Ibec said the sectors in Ireland worst hit will be food, drink, medical devices and some pharma products, but that 25pc of our export products would still escape. The tariffs will have a significant economic impact, said Ibec, which has calculated there will be a 4bn-6bn loss of exports in the coming year. The renovated artisan home on a quiet community-led street is close to amenities in Dublin 4 and the city centre Asking price: 685,000 Agent: Borgman Earls Property Consultants, (01) 662 5931 Emigration amongst young people in Ireland shows no sign of abating. A total of 30,000 people aged between 18 and 34 left our shores between 2023 and 2024, according to Central Statistics Office. The rising cost of living, financial security and the housing crisis are typically cited as reasons. Take Oisin Heavey. Despite working as a secondary school teacher, the now 35-year-old knew his only chance of ever buying a house in the capital was to move abroad. I loved teaching, but I knew I could never afford to live in Dublin if I stuck at it, says the owner of 5 Pembroke Cottages in Donnybrook, Dublin. I took the leap into the business of education as a result. Heavey, who comes from Sandycove in Dublin, spent his 20s travelling and working in Asia, the US and Canada. He had run a business school in Vietnam for three years when he returned to Ireland for the summer of 2018. Despite having accepted a new job offer in China, which would start at the end of the summer, he was keeping an eye out for employment here and began to look at property. He was influenced by his grandmother Mary Heavey. Im extremely close to her, and she really didnt want me to move to China, he says. But I wasnt sure about settling in Ireland either. The exterior of the Pembroke Cottages property The course of his life changed, however, the day he came to view 5 Pembroke Cottages, a renovated artisan cottage in Donnybrook, built in the 1890s for the keepers of Herbert Park. It absolutely blew me away, he says of the 750 sq ft home. Theres a wow factor when you come in the front door. It looks tiny from the outside, so youd never guess that it was so spacious and light-filled. A high-pitched ceiling with skylights adds to the feeling of space, and floods the house with natural light. The open-plan living area Thoughtfully laid out, the cottage has an open-plan layout and a large master bedroom on the ground floor, with stairs leading to an attic room and en-suite bathroom upstairs. Heavey bought the cottage in January 2019, and at the same time was offered a job in Dublin. I decided not to take the role in China, he explains. It all landed at the same time, but it was very unlikely Id have stayed here otherwise. From the moment he moved into the cottage, he knew hed made the right decision. I loved living in the house, the location, and all my neighbours. They made me feel immediately welcome, he says. The dining area Number 5 was previously owned by a woman who lived there for 30 years, and had extended it at the back in 2008. It needed little work. I made some energy efficient upgrades. For example, I replaced the front door but kept the teal green colour, says Heavey. He also replaced the boiler, and had a bespoke consul table and a breakfast counter extension built. As a moving-in gift, his mother hired a painter to redecorate the cottage in pristine white and cream tones. All the artwork on the walls save for a painting of Grafton Street and another of Sandycove in living room he collected on his travels in Asia. The stone water feature in the south-west facing patio also has a Vietnam connection, as Heaveys father bought it when he visited. The back yard Its called the Saigon Sun, as Saigon is the informal name for Ho Chi Minh City, where I was living, and it reminded him of me. He gave it to me as it fitted perfectly in the yard. This space can be accessed from the master bedroom via French doors. When theyre open in the summer and youre lying in bed, you get a belt of sun through the room and its just gorgeous, says Heavey. In fact, you get the sun there from about 11am into the early evening. In the mornings, you can open the blinds at the front of the house and the sunlight filters through it. The master bedroom He also added storage space under the stairs, with a dogs bed for his Cockapoo/Cavachon-cross Mossy, which he got after moving in. I didnt see myself settling down and getting married. I pictured myself as a forever bachelor. I thought myself and Mossy would be living in the house for the rest of our days. The staircase, with storage underneath But his life took another turn when he went on a date during the pandemic with his now wife, Laura Heavy, a tax consultant from Tipperary. I pretty much knew she was the one straight away, he says. The couple married in 2023 and now have a two year-old son called Fionn, and theyre expecting another baby in September. They moved out of 5 Pembroke Road in 2022 as they needed more space, and now live in Foxrock, close to Heaveys beloved grandmother. The cottage has been rented out since then. Having lived around the world, Heavey is happy to be settled here now. We do have struggles with housing and other issues, but by and large, Ireland is a great country to live in. Its very safe and offers a great quality of life, he says. Although he loves the house and appreciates the positive impact its had on his life, Heavey is ready to sell it. I never planned to let it go, but it feels right to do so now as Ive different priorities, he says. The shower room Hell miss his neighbours, though. Everyone knows everyone here. You can literally stand outside your door and someone will chat to you, but at the same time, they respect your privacy. Theres plenty of parking space outside the house, and its central location provides easy access to a wide range of amenities. Its unbelievably quiet but when you walk out of the front door, the main street in Donnybrook is 30 seconds walk away. Fingers crossed whoever buys No5 will appreciate it. Its really a very special house. The cottage has an asking price of 685,000 with Borgman Earls. I was called the most beautiful girl in the world at 18, then a spot appeared on my face... it was cancer - former Miss Universe Margaret Gardiner Despite being a top model all her life, the South African beauty queen faced constant criticism during her career. Here, the 65-year-old reveals the challenges she faced and how she got through it all Margaret Gardiner was told she was plump throughout her career as a model. Photo: Willem Botha Margaret Gardiner Fri 4 Apr 2025 at 03:30 I was bullied recently on social media. Some of the comments included: Go away. You are an embarrassment, Plastic, She is so focused on being forever young that she lost all her natural beauty. I had just judged the 2024 Miss Universe Pageant, held in Mexico City, 46 years after I had become the first woman from Africa to take the title. It was an amazing honour. I was the only former winner to be on the selection committee. Paddy McKillen Jnr puts Irelands most haunted house up for sale The developer and son of billionaire Paddy McKillen has abandoned his plans to convert the landmark Wexford building into a luxury hotel Loftus Hall, Hook Head, Wexford. Jessica O'Connor New Ross Standard Wed 2 Apr 2025 at 14:05 One of Irelands most historic buildings and its 68-acre estate based in south County Wexford is about to be launched on the property market, with offers expected to be in excess of 4 million. Tanya Sweeney: Our brand loyalty to Big Bro America has remained strong but suddenly, the land of the free doesnt look so alluring Irish consumers are left clinging to the remnants of American dream Our cultural love affair with America may be seriously tested by Trump's tariffs Tanya Sweeney Fri 4 Apr 2025 at 03:30 Heres something I assure you I dont say very often. Conor McGregor recently mentioned in a speech during his visit with Donald Trump at the Oval Office on St Patricks Day of this year, that Ireland is Americas little bro, and theres a grain of truth in what he said. Bone crushing sanctions could cripple Russia and weaken its hand Russian president Vladimir Putin is not afraid to gamble, but this one could be his undoing. Photo: AP With increasing signs of Putins Russia dragging its feet on the US proposed ceasefire, one wonders if this is a case of brinkmanship or deliberate folly. Having rejected Trumps proposed 30-day ceasefire and making a frankly unattainable counter-offer, Putin has now set in motion the biggest call-up yet of Russian conscripts (and I would not put too much store in his promise that they will not be sent to Ukraine). While hes still taking tough, things dont look great on the military or economic fronts for Putin. On the battlefield the Russians have resorted to still more extreme cannon-fodder tactics with some thrusts being led, Mad Max style, in converted cars and trucks. Ukrainian attacks have struck airfields far into Russia, destroying some very modern and expensive aircraft and air defence missile systems. Add to these the mysterious attacks in Moscow itself, including the destruction of a presidential limousine, and it is clear that either there is a capable Ukrainian sabotage and special-ops network in place or disgruntled Russians are now out to rid themselves of their president. Meanwhile, Putins international allies remain present but increasingly preoccupied with their own problems. Chinas focus is on Taiwan and its scuffles with the Philippines. Lukashenko is clinging to power in Belarus by his teeth, with his army fully committed to his personal defence since the stolen election of 2020 and his sham victory in January this year. The North Koreans have disappointed on the battlefield and an increasingly desperate Iranian regime is even talking of attacking the UK/US base in Diego Garcia as it faces a looming attack on its nuclear programme by Israel or the US or both. For the Ukrainians the omens looked bad after Zelenskys disastrous Oval Office encounter in late February, but now there is the real possibility of Putin upsetting president Trump. This could mean increased indirect support to the Ukrainians using what Republican Congressman Lindsey Graham described as bone crushing sanctions. This could mean sanctions not just on Russia but penalties for anyone who trades with the country. There could also be renewed arms shipments, including the missiles that are proving the most effective. HIMARS and ATACMs are always on the Ukrainian shopping list and they deliver fast results. A high-level Ukrainian source told me recently: We have more targets than bullets, so to speak. Targeted attacks on high-value assets in Russia an S300 missile battery at $500m (460m) a copy, an S400 at $1bn a copy seriously degrade Russias capability. If two or three such assets were destroyed each week, then by June Russia would be begging for peace. With effective sanctions in place replacements could not be made at all, never mind in a timely fashion. Such a strategic setback for Russia would mean the voluntary redrawing of the front lines. But that means the munitions must be delivered, not as in the past at a rate enabling Ukraine to survive, but in quantities that give the Ukrainians the edge to win. But this is now an option that may be taken by the White House. It is the likely consequence of frustrating Trump and his declared resolve to end this war shortly after taking office. A disappointed president Trump is a very dangerous and unpredictable beast. Putin would be wise to realise that. US president Donald Trump gestures after signing an executive order on tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House. Photo: Reuters As a man born and raised in Ireland, who lived in the United States for over a decade, served honourably in the US navy and became a naturalised American citizen in 1996, I write with deep concern about the direction of my adopted country. The United States is inching towards fascism, fuelled by a toxic blend of patriarchal narcissism, conspiracy theories and far-right extremism. Figures like Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Alex Jones and Conor McGregor represent this reactionary shift. Trump undermined democracy and emboldened white nationalists. Musk, while posing as a free-speech advocate, has turned X into a platform for disinformation. Jones profits from paranoia and hate, while McGregor embodies a brand of hyper-masculinity that glorifies aggression and misogyny. Together, they reflect a broader cultural backlash against progress and equality. At the heart of this movement is deep-seated misogyny. From Trumps boasts about assault to Musks disdain for women in leadership, these men champion a world where power belongs to egotistical strongmen, not democratic institutions. The contrast with a leader like Kamala Harris is stark she has worked to protect civil rights, reproductive freedoms and the rule of law, while these figures erode them. If the US continues down this path, it risks losing the democracy it once stood for. As an Irish-American who once believed in the ideals of my adopted country, I fear for its future. Declan OShea, Castlegar, Galway The laws of trade, just like the laws of fire, remain stubbornly unforgiving America, once the great architect of its own prosperity, now seems determined to test the limits of self-inflicted harm (Trump lights fuse on his historic trade war with raft of big tariffs Irish Independent, April 3). From wars waged on a whim to economic own-goals, it keeps touching the hot stove, recoiling in pain, only to try again. The latest misadventure massive tariffs follows the same pattern, mistaking isolation for strength. From this side of the Atlantic, we watch with a mix of bemusement and concern. Ireland once flirted with economic self-sufficiency, mistaking protectionism for power. It led not to strength, but to stagnation. It was only when we opened up to the world that Ireland found real prosperity. If America truly believes it can defy economic gravity, I wish it well. But the laws of trade, like the laws of fire, remain stubbornly unforgiving. Enda Cullen, Tullysaran Road, Co Armagh Abandon the free market will only leave those in the States a lot worse off So much for Liberation Day. Tariffs are a way of taking something away from somebody through the imposition of taxes on free trade. Protectionism is a sign of weakness, not strength. Americans are about to find out that tariffs are more about fear and insecurity, and that their great consumer spending bubble, which began after World War II, looks like ending up in rubble of their own making. The only ones being ripped off are those gullible enough to believe that a reality TV star with a string of bankruptcies after his name, together with a cadre of billionaires, knows better than the free market. If you had taxed them properly in the first place, you now wouldnt be in this unholy mess. Tom McElligott, Listowel, Co Kerry If the US president likes Ireland, he certainly has a funny way of showing it Donald Trump tells us that we Irish are smart people and that he likes us. To say he has a peculiar way of displaying his affection, would be quite an understatement. Tom Gilsenan, Beaumont, Dublin 9 Trumps Liberation Day is nothing but smoke and mirrors to fool voters Lies, damn lies and now Trump tariffs. It has that look of sensationalism, but when the dust settles it will be nothing more than what the Wizard of Oz offered an illusion. Liberation day, my arse. Aidan Roddy, Cabinteely, Dublin US administrations war on judges poses a grave threat to the rule of law The Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court has issued a stinging rebuke to Donald Trumps demand to impeach a judge who ruled against his administrations controversial deportation of migrants. Judge James Boasberg ordered a halt to the transfer of accused gang members to El Salvador. That ruling was ignored, and Trump branded him a troublemaker and agitator who should be removed. In a rare statement, Chief Justice John Roberts insisted impeachment was not an appropriate response to the disagreement, and it has led to unease in some Republican circles about the erosion of the authority of the judiciary. The White House has also been targeting commercial law firms that have worked on cases that have cast Trump in a bad light. I am left wondering how far the administration will push this war on the law. John OBrien, Clonmel, Co Tipperary Only answer to shortage of doctors is to pay our medics what theyre worth It is long overdue for the Government to address the problem of a serious shortage of doctors in Ireland. They need to be paid a decent salary. It is no surprise that a lot of our newly qualified doctors go overseas as soon as they qualify, and I dont blame them. A doctors salary, according to the internet, is between 120,000 and 140,000. A doctor in America gets paid around $235,690 (213,000). A new TD, with no experience, starts off at 113,679. If we didnt have foreign doctors and nurses here, we wouldnt have a health service. Time to pay our life-saving doctors and nurses what they are worth. John Fair, Castlebar, Co Mayo Finally, some good news from the White House as Elon Musk makes his exit Elon Musk is to step away from his prominent position in the Trump administration. Its good to finally see a hint of common sense appear in said administration. Peter Declan OHalloran, Belturbet, Co Cavan A Clare barbershop was delighted to receive a visit from Hollywood royalty this week as Mad Men actor Jared Harris called in for a haircut and a beard trim. Jimis Barbershop in Kilrush welcomed the star through their doors on Thursday but initially didnt recognise him. Along with roles in TV series such as The Crown, Chernobyl and The Fountain under his belt, Jareds other claim to fame is being the son of iconic actor Richard Harris. Owner James Coughlan said that Jared came in asking for a particular haircut that he needed for an upcoming acting role, which piqued his interest in the client. Follow Independent Clare on Facebook He explained to the Irish Independent that it was only when Jared began talking about his own Irish background that James caught on to the famous family connection. We talked about his Irish heritage and he said his family name was Harris, and I said You wouldnt be related to Richard Harris? He said yes, that was his dad. James remembered the day the sculpture of Richard Harris was unveiled in the nearby Kilkee and realised that he and Jared had met before at that very event. I remember Russell Crowe was there unveiling it, as he starred in Gladiator with Richard Harris, and I remember Jared spoke at the event and told a wonderful story about his father. I think Jared found it amazing that I had that memory of the day. Jared explained to James that Kilkee held a special place in his fathers heart, so much so that he named his house in the Bahamas after the small Irish town and Jared comes back to visit the west Clare area often. We had a wonderful conversation and to be talking to someone with such a strong connection to such an iconic actor, it was amazing he said. Jimis Barbershop is no stranger to celebrity clients, with the likes of Bono, Springsteen and Ronnie Wood coming in for an appointment. Asking for a specific haircut, Jared was accompanied by his wife for the appointment and James said that the actor was satisfied but more importantly, his wife was happy. Thats always the most important thing when our customers come in he said. As long as the mammies and the wives are happy with the end result, thats all that matters! Cobh will hold a special public ceremony to mark the 113th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic on Sunday, April 13. Pic credit: Cobh Tourism Cobh will hold a special public ceremony on Sunday April 13, 2025, to mark the 113th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. The public ceremony will honour the memory of all those who lost their lives in one of the worlds most haunting maritime tragedies. On the same day, Cobh will also welcome the first cruise liner of the 2025 season, which is always a big draw for the public and underscores the towns enduring maritime significance. Today, Cobh remains one of Irelands busiest cruise ports and continues to captivate visitors with its vibrant streetscape, warm hospitality and compelling historical legacy. As the Titanics final port of call, Cobh holds a deep historical connection to the ill-fated liner, remaining an important place of remembrance for Titanic enthusiasts and the descendants of victims and survivors. Each year, visitors from around the world travel to Cobh to reflect on the ships legacy. Organised by Cobh Tourism, the annual ceremony provides an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to pay tribute in a town forever linked to the Titanics fate. This years commemorations will take place at the Titanic Memorial on Pearse Square, beginning at 2.30pm. The solemn ceremony will feature music, prayers and the laying of wreaths in honour of those who perished on April 15, 1912. Local people and visitors to Cobh are warmly invited to attend. Invited dignitaries, local clergy, a Colour Party from the Cobh Branch of the Organisation of Ex-Servicemen and Women (O.N.E.), Cobhs Historical Animation Groups and the Commodore Male Voice Choir will all contribute to what is a moving tribute to the Titanics passengers. For the conclusion of the ceremonies, attendees will gather at Cobhs scenic Promenade, overlooking the very pier from where the Titanics final passengers boarded the tenders Ireland and America to bring them to the Titanic which lay at anchor near Roches Point. Here, the names of the 123 passengers who boarded the ship in Cobh then known as Queenstown on April 11, 1912 will be read aloud. A wreath will then be cast into the sea in their honour, followed by the poignant sounds of the Last Post and Reveille, performed by the Cobh Confraternity Band. Those wishing to delve deeper into the Titanic story are encouraged to visit Cobh Heritage Centre and Titanic Experience Cobh or partake in the Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour of Cobh. The personal stories, passenger records, artefacts and memorials in Cobh keep the memory of Titanics passengers alive in her final port of call. For further details on the commemorations or to explore what to see and do in Cobh this spring, visit www.visitcobh.com. 42-year-old Peter Mullins made no application for bail A man has appeared in court, charged in connection with an armed robbery at a commercial premises on Wednesday evening. It comes after Gardai arrested and charged Peter Mullins, of 31 Argideen Lawn, Togher, yesterday in connection with the robbery, which took place in the Broadale estate on Maryborough Hill. Gardai allege the 42-year-old entered a commercial premises on Maryborough Hill with a suspected firearm. A quantity of cash was stolen and the male left the scene, Cork District Court heard today. Detective Ray Shannon told the court that Mr Mullins was arrested and charged at 6.24pm at Maryborough Ridge, and today faced a charge under Section 14 of the Criminal Justice Act. A reference was also made in court relating to a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm, but Judge Mary Dorgan noted that the only charge before the court today was one of robbery. Gardai allege Mr Mullins stole 615 in different note denominations from a Centra shop in Broadale, Maryborough Hill, Douglas. Defence solicitor Shane Collins-Daly told the court Mr Mullins is not currently working currently and that he is availing of jobseekers allowance. There was no application for bail from Mr Mullins, however the accused did instruct his solicitor to ask Judge Mary Dorgan to recommend to Cork Prison that Mr Mullins gets his prescribed medication. Judge Dorgan said it wouldnt be appropriate for a judge to recommend medical advice, and that all prisoners entering Cork Prison are medically examined as part of their reception to the facility. However, she did say that she would note to the prison that Mr Mullins is concerned about getting his prescribed medication. Mr Mullins was remanded in custody until April 11, where he will again appear before the court via video link. Gardai say investigations are ongoing. Mr William John Carey was also fined 800 A man has been disqualified for driving for 12 months and fined 800 after being caught in a car with no tax or insurance, which he said wasnt his. The incident, which took place on St Patricks Day last year, saw an Opel Zafira stopped on the Carrigrohane Road, where Gardai from Gurranabraher Garda Station found that its tax had been out of date by 410 days. The driver, William John Carey, from 6 Chapel View Lane, Doneraile, failed to produce insurance for the vehicle when asked. His defence solicitor told Cork District Court that Mr Carey was out with a friend on St Patricks Day, and after his friend became too intoxicated to drive the car home, Mr Carey drove the both of them in his friends car. Mr Careys friend had told him that he had insurance and that Mr Carey was driving in good faith under the impression that his friend had the required documentation on the car. The court also heard that Mr Carey had previously attended Cuan Mhuire addiction services, was making good progress, and had started work as a window-glass fitter. Gardai couldnt estimate the likely loss to the state in unpaid tax, and when asked what tax Mr Carey was paying on the vehicle he replied, its not my car. The accused faced a two-year driving ban, which was reduced to the minimum 12 months under the circumstances. Mr Carey was also fined 800 and asked to pay 500 in estimated tax to cover the likely loss to the state. Eligible students in Cork have been urged to apply to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) following the opening for applications for the 2025/26 academic year. Fine Gael TD for Cork North West John Paul OShea said the substantial increase in the thresholds for grants means more students will now be eligible for grant support. The increase in student maintenance grants are a step forward for students and families in Cork and across the country. Im delighted that more students in Cork will now be able to benefit from financial support. Deputy OShea continued: We are committed to cutting the cost of education and alleviating financial pressures, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than any undue financial stress. Key measures for the 2025/26 academic year include: Increased Eligibility: More families will now qualify, with the income limit raised to 115,000, allowing more students to access financial support. Higher Grant Amounts: The special rate of grant has increased from 26,200 to 27,400, in line with rises in social welfare rates. Increased Income Deductions: Students can now earn more during the holidays without it affecting their grant, with the income deduction rising to 8,424. Expanded Eligibility: The scheme has been broadened to include students with certain immigration statuses, such as those under the Regularisation Scheme. The online application process is easy to follow on www.susi.ie, said Deputy OShea added I want to encourage all eligible students across Cork to apply now. Fine Gael will help to ensure that every student in Cork has a meaningful opportunity to learn and get the qualification they want. A Dublin City University student was arrested during a protest against a visit to the campus by Taoiseach Micheal Martin. The DCU BDS Campaign group, a student-led movement calling for the boycott, divestment and sanctioning of the Israeli apartheid state and justice for Palestine, gathered on campus at 9.30am yesterday to protest at the visit. One man in his 20s was arrested for alleged public order offences and has since been charged. The BDS group has since claimed they were subjected to excessive force, pushing and dragging from the moment we arrived. We are appalled by how DCU students were treated for peacefully protesting on our own campus, they said in a statement. The complicity of Taoiseach Micheal Martin and other TDs present at the event today is the real crime, not exercising our democratic right to peaceful assembly. An Garda Siochana said they were in attendance to maintain the peace and order at a public gathering in Whitehall, Dublin 9, in the early hours of Thursday, April 3. Any garda response in relation to evolving events is in keeping with a community policing model and graduated policing response taking into account relevant legislation and public safety, they said At approximately 10.30am, a man in his 20s was arrested for offences contrary to the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, and detained at a garda station in the Dublin Metropolitan Region. He has since been charged and is due to appear before court at a later date. Ireland is a constitutional democracy and there is a constitutional right for citizens to express freely their convictions and opinions and to assemble peaceably, subject to statutory provisions. An Garda Siochana respects the right of citizens to exercise their constitutional rights; exercising such rights does not extend to committing breaches of statutory law. A DCU spokesperson said: Dublin City Universitys new Polaris building was officially opened by An Taoiseach Micheal Martin and Minister James Lawless on the morning of Thursday, April 3. A protest took place outside the building. One of the protesters was arrested and subsequently charged by An Garda Siochana. As this matter will be before the courts, the university will not be commenting further. The Taoiseachs office has been contacted for further comment. This article was amended at 7.03pm on April 4, 2025, to include a statement from Dublin City University People queue outside one of the many soup kitchens in Dublin city centre. Pic Stock image/Niall Carson/PA A meeting to explore draft bye-laws for soup kitchens in Dublin, had to be cancelled due to a planned protest outside Dublin City Council offices. The Dublin Regional Homeless Executive invited the 16 to 20 on-street groups providing food, toiletries and clothing to people experiencing homelessness in Dublin, to a meeting to discuss changes that will impact their day-to-day operations. It follows a report commissioned by the Dublin Region Homeless Executive (DRHE) which raised concerns about on-street food services and suggested restrictions on health and safety grounds. Last year, a task force led by then Taoiseach Simon Harris helped commission the report, and now supports limiting on-street food services to improve the citys image. The report has led the council to draft new bye-laws which may restrict these services, citing concerns about anti-social behaviour, drug dealing, and negative impacts on public spaces. The councils report into these services notes that many of these groups are not well-equipped to address the complex needs of homeless individuals, and in some cases, their interventions may hinder the efforts of mainstream services. On-street services operate from locations such as Grafton Street, South King Street, College Green, the GPO, North Earl Street, and Thomas Street. The meeting, which was due to take place between 5pm and 7pm on April 3, was to be an information-sharing event covering background and context, updates on drafting bye-laws, and perspectives on the services, while also facilitating questions. However, councillors were notified yesterday afternoon by DRHE management that there was a planned protest at Dublin City Councils Civic Offices. A decision has been made to unfortunately cancel the On-Street Food Services group discussion, they said. Given the potential impact on accessibility and security concerns, we believe it is in everyones best interest to reschedule at a later date. Dublin city councillors received communication on the meeting so they could pass on the message to volunteer food services they were aware of in the city, but were kindly asked not to attend the meeting. Dublin Food Not Bombs shared a post on their social media promoting the protest outside the council offices. We are staging a distro/picket outside the DRHE meeting to protest the introduction of new bye-laws that would make unlicensed food sharing illegal, they said. We wont accept their attempt to stop us from helping our neighbours, and neither should you. A new set of bye-laws, which could introduce a licensing system, requiring services to meet specific standards and undergo regular evaluations, will be voted on by councillors later this year. Elizabeth Berney (103), the daughter of the late General Richard Mulcahy and whose late mother was engaged to Sean Mac Diarmada, who was executed in Kilmainham in 1916 and whose body was interred at Arbour Hill - planting a tree with Governor Amanda Sutton and Sabina Higgins at Arbour Hill Prison today as part of the 100 Million Trees Project. Photo: Fran Veale/Julien Behal A 103-year-old woman helped plant the 600,000th tree in a project aiming to plant one hundred million native trees over the next decade. Elizabeth Berney joined Sabina Higgins at the grounds of Arbour Hill Prison in Dublin for a ceremony to mark the milestone in the Million Trees Project. Ms Berneys connection to Arbour Hill is that she is the daughter of the late General Richard Mulcahy and whose late mother was engaged to Sean Mac Diarmada, who was executed in Kilmainham in 1916 and whose body was interred at Arbour Hill. Prison Governor Amanda Sutton also took part in the planting. It is the first time an Irish prison has taken part in the project, which is supported by Uniphar PLC. Founded in 2022, the 100 Million Trees Project aims to restore Irelands natural environment through the planting of young, native tree varieties and is currently active in over 250 sites nationwide. The initiative aims to combat climate change, increase biodiversity, and create mini-carbon sinks by planting trees in dense formation. By the end of May, the project is on track to have planted 750,000 trees across various mini-forest areas around the country. The project is unique in that it uses less space than traditional forestry, making use of unused or fallow areas across Ireland. Richard Mulcahy, co-founder of the 100 Million Trees Project in 2022 along with his brother David and sister Tina, said: We have to respond rapidly to the unprecedented challenges facing this planet. The 100 Million Trees Project is an empowering initiative for communities across the country an easy-to-implement project for ordinary people who want to do something impactful and meaningful to mitigate climate change. Arbour Hill governor Amanda Sutton said: This initiative brings meaningful purpose to an available urban site, restores biodiversity and is our way of contributing to our neighbours and to the community here in the Arbour Hill Area. Uniphar chief executive Ger Rabbette said: We are thrilled to support this important environmental initiative which is a very practical way of channelling communities around the country in actively responding to the global climate challenge. The poster promoting Cailini Granna, an Irish language version of Mean Girls An Irish language parody has been created to mark the upcoming 21st anniversary of the classic US teen movie, Mean Girls. Hilary Bowen-Walsh, who is originally from Sligo but is now based in Dublin, wrote, directed, and starred in the production of Cailini Granna. The short film reimagines Tina Feys beloved comedy and serves as both a tribute to Mean Girls and a showcase for the Irish language. People are absolutely obsessed with it [Mean Girls]. Im totally overcome with surprise, Ms Bowen-Walsh said. Its been amazing and unexpected. You make a thing and put it out there, then people take it for themselves and that has been beautiful to see. When I was in college years ago, I was part of the Cumann Dramaiochta and we decided to adapt Mean Girls in an Irish context for the stage. It won a few awards and has stayed with me ever since that it would be fun to make a visual Irish language version of it. You could modernise it and put in all the memes and references of everything we love. Ms Bowen-Walsh takes on the role of Regina George in Cailini Granna, which also features Megan OMalley as Lindsay Lohans character Cady, which is changed to Kayleigh for the Irish version. The poster promoting Cailini Granna, an Irish language version of Mean Girls The end credits feature a cover of Chappell Roans hit, Hot to Go, sung as gaeilge as Mhac Go Deo by Caoimhe Doyle. It was a challenge. I was wearing many hats, but I had collaborated with a lot of the people previously, so I felt really well supported and I felt I had done enough preparation. The shooting days went well, Ms Bowen-Walsh said. It was great fun. I was trying to get people to come in representing their county, whether it was Kilkenny, Leitrim, Donegal, or Kerry, just to hear the different kinds of Irish. In the original movie, theres a quote where one of the high school girls, Gretchen, is trying to test out a new bit of slang and says, thats so fetch. We landed on Cula Bula for that scene as its a term Irish people know but theres something kind of nasty and cringe about it. Speaking about her gra for the teanga, Ms Bowen-Walsh said you dont have to be perfect at the language to give it a go. Im a big believer of encouraging people to use a little Irish. Most Irish speakers are bilingual these days, if you dont have the terminology for nuclear reaction, you can just use English words. For me, its about overcoming our inherited postcolonial self-deprecation and shame. To take pride in such a rich cultural and linguistic heritage. Beyond all the baggage, its just a means to communicate in an incredibly trendy way. I was involved in the first Irish language musical ever that went to the Cannes Film Festival. Ive done a lot of Irish language work, and I love it. I dont see it any different to doing English language work. Dublin Coffee Festival returns to the RDS on April 12 and 13 The two-day Dublin Coffee Festival returns to the RDS on April 12 and 13. Pic: Stock image Coffee lovers will descend on the RDS next week for dozens of brew related events, as the Dublin Coffee Festival returns for a second year. Dublin was named the second-most coffee-obsessed capital city on earth in 2021, according to a survey conducted by Brew Smartly, and has been living up to its name with over 181 coffee shops per 100,000 people. The Dublin Coffee Festival takes place on April 12 and 13 and will feature talks such as opening a coffee shop, latte art competitions, Irish cup tasters, advanced workshops and much more. There will be 72 exhibitors featured and they are looking to welcome over 3,000 people throughout the weekend. Oli Crawley, Director for Husky Events Limited who took over the festival from Cup North Limited, said they have run similar coffee festivals in Brighton and Manchester which have sold out every year. One of the main things when we launched the Dublin show was making sure the offering was there first and foremost for Dublin and Irish brands, he said. In the UK, there are lots of regional coffee shows, but in Ireland, there arent as many. We wanted to showcase as many local brands as possible, and over 98pc of the exhibitors this year are Irish, which is great to see, he added. He said the coffee festival, which has been dubbed Irelands biggest coffee party, offers something for everyone. Whether youre really passionate about coffee and work in the industry, or youre just someone who enjoys coffee and wants to learn more, theres something there for you, he said. Its a platform for both seasoned professionals and those who are just starting to explore the specialty coffee world. One of the things were really passionate about is supporting the local community and the specialty scene. The festival is about enhancing that scene and providing representation for a wide range of businesses within the industry. Whether its talks on sustainability, career development, or hands-on workshops, its all about giving people the opportunity to learn and grow within the coffee world, he added. Tickets to Dublin Coffee Festival include free samples and tasters from exhibitors, access to talks and panel discussions from industry experts and live music across the weekend. Weekend, all day, and morning or afternoon tickets are available at www.dublincoffeefest.com A crossbow, a hatchet and other weapons are among items found by searchers in an apparent make-shift camp on the farm of missing Kerry farmer Mike Gaine. Clothing and food stuff was also found in a rocky location in one of the most isolated parts of the 1,000 acre farm. These items may not be of any evidential value and may have nothing to do with the disappearance of the Kerry farmer but gardai are examining everything that was discovered in the hidden location. The items were inside a cave or camp type structure that was very difficult to find but, with the help of drones, the secluded camp was discovered and searched and a large amount of items were discovered inside. The army are today continuing their search of the land and farm belonging to Mr Gaine in the hope of discovering what happened to the Kerry farmer who has now been missing for more than two weeks. This is the last captured sighting of the Kerry farmer in Centra in Kenmare The last recorded sighting of Mr Gaine was on CCTV at the Centra Shop at 9.48am buying phone credit. His jeep was discovered on his farm at Carrig East near Molls Gap when he was officially reported missing on Friday, March 21 exactly two weeks ago. Despite one of the most extensive searches ever carried out in Kenmare with both aerial and water searches undertaken out almost every single day for the past 14 days the mystery of what happened or the whereabouts of Mr Gaine remains unresolved. The discovery on Thursday on the same day that eight of Mikes cattle were sold at Kenmare Mart in what was an emotional day for everyone. Manager of Kenmare Co-Op Mart, Dan McCarthy, broke down as he appealed for help to bring Mike home to his family. The Army has been brought in to help search for missing farmer Mike Gaine. Photo: Domnick Walsh Gardai have made several calls for information. They continue to want to speak to any person who travelled on the N71 on Thursday, March 20, after 9:48am and/ or any person who may have any camera footage, including dash-cam or CCTV, or any other images (video or still) from Thursday, March 20, and Friday, March 21, in the Kenmare town/Molls Gap (N71/R568) area to provide that imagery to the Garda investigation team. Anyone with information on Michael's whereabouts is asked to contact Killarney Garda Station on 064 667 1160, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. Brussels Bound- Kiltallagh National School Students excited about thier upcoming trip to the European Parliament in Brussels next week - Photo by Mark O'Sullivan Kiltallagh National School students Phoepe Fehilly Stoat, Evan Horton, Emilina Flynn, Dawn Tehan, Ava Courtney, Franklin Clendennen and Principle Paula Ni Bhriain all excited about thier upcoming trip to the European Parliament in Brussels next week - Photo by Mark O'Sullivan Kiltallagh National Schools senior classes will gain an insight into the inner workings of continental politics when they travel to the beating heart of the European Union next month. Fifth and Sixth class pupils of the Castlemaine school will soon make a trip to Brussels where they will visit The Parliamentarium, which is the European Parliaments visitor centre, and the House of European History, a museum focused on the recent history of the continent. In addition to visiting the European institutions, the Kiltallagh pupils will also meet up with Kerry native and Ireland South Member of the European Parliament, Sean Kelly. The students previously met Mr Kelly when he visited Kiltallagh NS on March 8 as part of their schools participation in the Blue Star Programme in the last academic year. The initiative taught the pupils about European cultures and the European Union through creative activities and projects that complement the national curriculum. Through the programme, they gained a host of knowledge about Europe and an understanding of how the EU impacts the lives of Irish citizens. Kiltallagh NS principal Paula Ni Bhriain told The Kerryman that Mr Kellys visit to the school was an exceptional experience for students and staff. Sean engaged brilliantly with the children, taking time to discuss their Blue Star projects and sharing insights into his work in the European Parliament, Ms Ni Bhriain said. His visit left a lasting impression on both students and staff, and we are incredibly grateful that he took time out of his busy schedule to be with us. The principal said Mr Kellys memorable visit made staff think about how incredible it would be for the schools fifth and sixth class pupils to visit Brussels and see up close the centre of the European Union. Since then, the school worked to make sure the opportunity to visit to Brussels would be given to the senior classes, who are now counting down the days to the start of their exciting European adventure. This visit will undoubtedly further enhance the childrens understanding of the EU and provide them with an unforgettable once in a lifetime educational experience, Ms Ni Bhriain said. Sex workers deserve human rights just like anyone else On the second anniversary of the brutal killing of Geila Ibram, Lucy Smyth from Ugly Mugs, a support organisation for sex workers, shared concerns about the lack of safety for sex workers in Limerick. During an interview with the Irish Independent, Ms Smyth described the ongoing challenges faced by the sex work community, the failure of authorities to prioritise their safety, and the stigma that prevents real change. Ms Ibram's death on April 4, 2023 prompted a nationwide search for a suspect who fled the jurisdiction after her killing. According to Ms Smyth, there was little to no communication with the sex work community after the incident: We were very disappointed about the police response to that, and we still are. In the hours and days after the Romanian mother-of-fours death, Limericks sex worker community had to rely on each other for safety as they say the criminalisation of sex work effectively discouraged them from going to local gardai. Using the Ugly Mugs platform, they were able to circulate warnings about a suspects description from doorbell footage at Ms Ibrams apartment on Dock Road. That was a case which showed how sex workers rely on each other to keep safe, Ms Smyth added. Limerick is a city notorious for violence against sex workers. Its is a particularly bad location, Ms Smyth remarked. Unfortunately, every week we're hearing about attacks, and so there's a disproportionate amount of violence in Limerick, disproportionate to a number of sex workers there, she added. She stressed that a lack of meaningful change in the laws and attitudes surrounding sex work has only worsened the situation. The Nordic Model, implemented in 2017 about the law on sex work increased penalties for brothel keeping and criminalised the purchase of sex. This is still a major point of frustration for Ugly Mugs and Sex Workers Alliance Ireland (SWAI). The review didn't actually address sex workers safety and well-being. It just sort of glossed over it, Ms Smyth said. The law, which was supposed to reduce the prevalence of sex work, has had the opposite effect, she believes. In a press release on the first-anniversary of Ms Ibrams murder, a spokesperson for SWAI said: The Nordic Model has only exacerbated violence against sex workers and the ongoing harassment, threats, and violence faced by sex workers across Ireland. A major part of Ugly Mugs advocacy is pushing for the decriminalisation of sex work. If this wasn't a criminal offense, then people who were victims of crimes would be able to come forward to the gardai without fear of being prosecuted, she said. Follow Independent Limerick on Facebook Looking ahead, Ms Smyth said there are ways in which the wider Limerick community could create a safer environment for sex workers going forward. I think by holding the gardai to account, and expecting a better standard for everyone in terms of how they treat marginalised groups, is crucial. Sex workers deserve human rights just like anyone else, she said. A man has been charged by the PSNI with the murder of Geila Ibram. The assault took place at the Tramore Road Business Park at about 5pm on Wednesday, April 2 Gardai are seeking the publics assistance in identifying two males who were involved in a unprovoked attack on a third male on the outskirts of Waterford city at about 5pm on Wednesday, April 2. The assault took place in the Tramore Road Business Park. People may be familiar with the Screw Fix and Mum and Me premises at the entrance to the business park, said crime prevention officer, sergeant Deirdre ONeill. Two males believed to be in their early 20s wearing black or grey tracksuits with hoodies up and their faces covered approached a young man as he left his place of work in the business park and assaulted him with a hurley, causing him facial injuries. They made their escape on foot towards Waterford city passing Dunphys Shop towards the Circle K garage on The Manor. This would have been a busy time on this road and we are asking anyone with information to contact Unit B at Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300 or via our confidential line on 1800 666 111, added Sgt ONeill. CCTV has been obtained and investigations are ongoing. Pictured at the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday were Aaron Tormey and Fionn Hassey from Ramsgrange Community School. Pic: Jim Campbell Evan Brennan, Garda Anne Quirke, Clara Clare, Garda Aidan Miley and Aoife Arnold pictured at the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell Gina Arcari, Sinead Browne,, Rebecca Cleary, Karol Jackson and Siobhan Maguire were at at the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell Leah Wall, Holly Redmond, Ciara Roche and Orlaith Roche from the Loreto Secondary School wereat the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell Josephine Ilunga, Robyn Carty, Rebecca Crotty and Elena Ebler from the Loreto Secondary School were pictured at the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell Tommy Gallagher, Dylan Bennett, Jonathan Jenkins, Luke Murphy and Luke Nolan from Ramsgrange Community School attended the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell Caitlin Murphy, Samantha McCormack and Emelia Siekierska were at the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell Pictured at the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday were Farrah Quli, Derry Greaves, Theo the Kare Bear and Margaret Loubser. Pic: Jim Campbell Ambulance personal: Alan Doyle, Cllr Ger Carthy, Jill Burton, Coleman Gilligan and Eoin Gorman were pictured at the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell Pictured at the The County Wexford Jobs Fest in the Talbot Hotel on Thursday were Evan Hope, Cialin McLarnin Anthony Cronin, Milly Lotz, Luke Byrne, Ella Kabanagh, Liutauras Vertelka, Jasmine Furlong, Brian Tomkins, Brooke Kehoe, Johannes Nellander and Jessica Kelly. Pic: Jim Campbell All manner of people, from students looking to take their first step towards a new career, to those with experience in the workforce looking to change the direction of theirs, gathered at the Talbot Hotel as County Wexford Chamber host the latest instalment of their Jobs Fest. There was a great buzz in the room as over 30 employers from all kinds of sectors chatted with those in attendance and sought to attract new recruits. Owing to the assistance of The Rotary Club of Wexford, who liaised with local secondary schools as part of their Careers Connect initiative, over 450 pupils from 13 different schools were also in attendance and got a flavour for what might be required to get a start in their chosen profession, be it state agencies such as An Garda Siochana, the National Ambulance Service and the Fire Service, to major employers like Integer, Celtic Linen, Kare Plus, Wexford Bus, Scurri and Gallagher Insurance to name but a few. The events first two hours were open exclusively to students, who had the opportunity to meet recruiters, share their CVs and discuss job opportunities and career paths, giving them invaluable information and experience. The event was said to have been a great success, both from the point of view of recruiters and attendees, and County Wexford Chamber thanked all who came along and played a part. A proud ambassador of his home town and county, Emmy-nominated tenor Michael Londra is celebrating a landmark achievement in the life of his TV series Ireland With Michael. The show, which debuted in 2021, has surpassed 50,000 airings on the PBS network in the US, airing in 49 states and showing of the beauty, history and culture of Ireland to an American audience. Sharing Irelands story with such a vast audience has been deeply fulfilling, the Wexford man said. This series allows people to connect with the music, traditions, and landscapes that make our country so special. The fifth and latest series of Ireland with Michael, currently airing on PBS, sees him visit his native Wexford and explore the town's ties to American civil rights, as well as enjoying Kilkennys culinary delights and learning a thing or two about Irish cooking in Dungarvan. In this series, he also visits Galway and Connemara, Derry, Cork, the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry, the midlands and the Iowa Irish Festival. As well as airing on PBS, the show, which is supported by Tourism Ireland, CIE Tours and Aer Lingus, can also be streamed on Hulu and Amazon Prime. Parkmore Studios' cast and crew for 'The Fuel Of Youth', which was filmed in the Baltinglass area in the summer of 2023. A filmmaker bringing movie-making to rural Wicklow has launched a Kickstarter campaign to help fund the production of his second feature film, Happy Hour, complete with the change for generous backers to earn tickets to see the film locally, an Executive Producer credit, or even a day on set. Following this filmmakers first feature film as a director, The Fuel Of Youth, which was filmed in the Baltinglass area in the summer of 2023, Happy Hour follows aspiring performer Margot Moore from the quirky little Irish town of Briomhar, who has always dreamed of leaving her hometown and pursuing her ambitions. On her last day in Briomhar, her story crosses with Jack Anderson, a boxer with a short temper, his younger half-brother Luke, and his friends. Meanwhile, darkness looms in the form of a mysterious man who is on a path of violence. Exploring the deep yearning for freedom, the story is told in a dark and comedic tone, delving into the aspiration for stardom while also dealing with the thoughts of never escaping a rural setting, of being bound by familiarity and expectation. The story questions what it truly means to break free. Alongside these themes, the story highlights the significance of the paths we carve for ourselves and the people who shape our journeys, whether they anchor us in place or push us toward the unknown. Ultimately, it is a story that, through the lens of confinement, seeks to understand what it means to truly live. The film is being produced by Parkmore Studios, which is the brainchild of 22-year-old film-maker and photographer John Hughes, who wanted to share his passion for film-making with like-minded young artists, and has been making films (mainly commercial videos, shorts and documentaries) under that banner since 2021. Described as a loose gathering of people developing careers on both the technical side of creating movies and appearing before the camera, the studio also has more seasoned people involved. John is asking for the publics help to bring Happy Hour to fruition, with the most pressing need being to cover the costs of transport and food for cast and crew. Additional funds are also need to help cover production design, props, incidental expenses, post-production and marketing. In the summer of 2023, I decided to ignore all the rules and have a shot at directing a feature film with little or no budget, John explained. That first film was called The Fuel of Youth and we aim for it to have its premiere later this year. I couldnt have created it without a terrific cast and crew working with me voluntarily. Im so grateful that I had the opportunity to co-operate with such amazing talent. The support from the community and local businesses in Baltinglass was so encouraging as well as helpful in practical terms for a no-budget project. A small grant through Creative Places Baltinglass just about allowed us to cover transport costs for the latter part of principal photography. I didnt know what to expect, but almost two years later I am glad to say Im doing it again! I launched the Kickstarter because Parkmore Studios cant make this film without some support, he continued. The 3,000 goal is just a starting point. Even with a voluntary cast and crew, this amount barely scratches the surface of our expenses. If the 3,000 goal is reached, more support is crucial. All further donations would be greatly appreciated. Ive spent the last few months working on pre-production of Happy Hour and I have become extremely passionate about telling this dark comedy about rural Ireland. I would hope we can recreate the excitement of 2023 again, but on a larger scale. Please help the Parkmore Studios team make this a reality! Several filming locations have already been identified and promised, which has been vital for progressing the project in it pre-production phase. Praising the property owners for their generosity, John said that other locations are being considered and more crew members are also needed. The calls on social media for cast and crew received a surprising and encouraging response from talented volunteers in Wicklow, Carlow, Kildare and Wexford Parkmore Studios now has a larger circle of friends, he said. Most of us come from rural communities and we have to deal with the challenges of being outside the usual film-making hubs. Investing in this project is not just supporting a single film, its helping to elevate a growing community of emerging filmmakers, giving us the platform that we need to break through and share our stories with a wider audience. The risks involved in an independent project like this are purely financial, and that is why we need this fundraiser to reach its goal, he added. If we do not reach the required amount, we wont be able to make this film. Financial backing is crucial to independent artists at our level and by donating even the cost of a pint of Guinness in your local, youre helping us to tell our stories. John has enlisted the help of Baltinglass native, genealogist, local historian, and writer Paul Gorry as his producer on Happy Hour. Over the past three years, Paul and John have helped one another on projects to their mutual benefit. Most recently, they have worked on several documentary films that are still in the pipeline. When John was preparing for his first feature, The Fuel of Youth, Paul was in the background for moral support and advice, but when filming began, he became more involved in the organisational aspect of the project. Ive had a lifelong interest in films as a spectator, but finding myself in the role of co-producer of a feature film, out of the blue, at my advanced age, is amazing for this film buff, Paul joked. Being involved in The Fuel of Youth was a real experience, watching cast and crew working together, all voluntarily. I was surprised by the amount of talent in the locality all involved were from within a 20-mile radius of Baltinglass, based in Counties Wicklow, Carlow and Kildare. Now that principal photography on Happy Hour is coming up it will be a busy and exciting summer, with a bigger cast and crew. Parkmore Studios is providing a great opportunity for up-and-coming artists in the area to gain experience in independent film-making. To support Happy Hour, visit kickstarter.com/projects/parkmorestudios/the-production-of-happy-hour A fire that broke out on Coillte land in Djouce Woods, Co Wicklow on Thursday night. Photo: Wicklow Fire Service A fire that broke out on Coillte land in Djouce Woods, Co Wicklow on Thursday night. Photo: Wicklow Fire Service Officials are warning of a high fire risk this weekend, after Wicklow Fire Services spent several hours on Thursday night into Friday morning battling a largescale wildfire on Coillte lands in the Djouce Woodland. The fire took place while a Status Orange high forest fire risk warning was in place, having been issued Tuesday, April 1, advising that recent weather patterns present a high fire risk in all areas where hazardous fuels, such as dead grasses, and shrub fuels, such as heather and gorse, exist. The warning remains in place until Monday, April 7. Fire crews from Greystones and Bray were quickly on the scene after an alert was raised at 8pm last night, and worked their way through the early morning to contain the large blaze, which had spread across stockpiles of brash bundling. They were assisted by Coillte staff and their contractors in bringing the fire under control. Coillte are currently maintaining a presence at the site. The blaze comes just over a week since the Wicklow Mountains hosted an expansive wildfire preparedness test, that saw leading national and local agencies come together to work through a simulated severe wildfire scenario near Turlough Hill and Lough Dan. It also follows on from a devastating gorse wildfire which broke out near Glencullen, in the Dublin Mountains, on the night of Thursday, March 20, which severely damaged the famous 5,000-year-old passage tomb known as the Fairy Castle and its surrounding land on Two Rock. Ive had 14 masses said for me, thank you so much. Loads of candles lit Brendan Courtney has revealed how he received hundreds of cards following an attack he suffered in Dublin. The presenter was punched to the ground and repeatedly kicked in the head when he was set upon by three people as he made his way to his apartment in February. Doctors later confirmed he had sustained a fracture to a bone in his eye after he attended A&E. However, Brendan described the beautiful kindness he had experienced as he opening up about the horrible drama. Appearing on the Six Oclock show on Tuesday alongside his Lennon Courtney co-founder Sonya Lennon, he said: I have had hundreds of cards. Like, the fact that people went to a shop, bought a card. Ive had 14 masses said for me, thank you so much. Loads of candles lit. Brendan Courtney Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 4th Loads of people had masses said for me, and had cards sent, (from people who) were so appalled. It was a massive outpouring of love. Brendan revealed that he had even received a letter from one woman in particular who wrote: Brendan Courtney, RTE/ Designer, Wicklow, County Wicklow. After he posted the story about the letter making it to his house, Sarah Jessica Parker shared it, he told presenters Katja Mia and Brian Dowling. I saw that, Katja declared while Brendan said it was very exciting. I did squeal, and I was in a big store in London doing a bit of shopping or whatever I was doing in between meetings and I did nearly spontaneously combust. But Im okay. Speaking previously about the incident, Brendan warned others to be careful as he asked whats going on in the capital. He said he believed the attack may have been because he was gay and that his attackers may have recognised him from his TV work, which was perfect fodder for them. So, Im just going to do this because I feel like I should, he said in a social media post. "Last night, at nine oclock on my way home with some food, crossing the traffic lights just outside my apartment, three lads pulled up in a car and jumped out of a car and jumped out and attacked me and punched me to the ground, he said. "God, Im lucky actually but Im sore because they kicked me in the head a couple of times. An amazing American couple walking by started screaming and the manager from the place on the corner came out and the police were there in seconds. He said the group jumped in the car and drove off at that point. "That happened to me yesterday, so be careful. Dublin, whats going on? Russell Brand has been charged with rape and sexual assault by police in the UK. The comedian, actor and right-wing podcaster has been charged with one count each of rape, indecent assault and oral rape as well as two counts of sexual assault, the Metropolitan Police said. Since 1963, The Independent has helped create a great community! Since our founding in September of 1963, The Independent has been dedicated to giving Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, and Sunol readers the news they need to be in-the-know about what's going on in the Tri-Valley region. Manoj Kumar, one of Bollywoods most celebrated actors, is no more. He died in Mumbai on April 4 due to a heart-related ailment. He was 87. The star was loved by many in the era gone by because of his unique mannerisms and charismatic personality. While everyone knows about his legacy, some may not remember that he once lashed out at Shah Rukh for insulting him in Om Shanti Om (2007) When Shah Rukh Khan aplogised to Manoj Kumar following the Om Shanti Om row Shah Rukh Khans Om Shanti Om featured a scene in which his character imitated Manoj Kumar by covering his face with his hands. This upset the Purab Aur Paschim actor, who threatened to file a lawsuit against the makers if the said scene was not removed. He again lost his cool when Om Shanti Om was released in Japan with the sequence intact. He then sued the makers and demanded Rs 100 crore in damages. Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Ji's works ignited a spirit of national pride and will pic.twitter.com/f8pYqOxol3 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 According to Free Press Journal, Manoj Kumars lawyer said that SRK personally apologised to the veteran actor over email after the controversy. However, despite this, the objectionable scene was retained in the version released in Japan. The film was released in Japan without deleting those scenes. I had forgiven them twice, but not this time. They have disrespected me. They also face contempt of court as in 2008 the court had asked them to forever and from all prints and broadcast material, delete those scenes," Kumar had said. The veteran star eventually withdrew the case in 2013. About Manoj Kumar Manoj Kumar, meanwhile, died on April 4. He had been battling health issues for a long time. He began his career with Fashion (1957) and soon emerged as a bankable star. His credits include Purab Aur Paschim, Upkar, and Kranti. In Hinduism, Annapurna Puja holds a very special place. This puja is dedicated to Maa Annapurna, the Goddess of Food and Nourishment. She is believed to be the one who feeds all living beings and ensures no one goes hungry. Read on to know all about Annapurna Puja 2025, its date, rituals, and the deep significance of worshipping Maa Annapurna. Who is Maa Annapurna? Maa Annapurna is worshipped as the divine provider of food and nourishment. The word Annapurna is made up of two Sanskrit words Anna meaning food or grain, and Purna meaning complete or full. So, Maa Annapurna is the one who gives plentiful food to all. She is seen as a form of Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva. She doesnt just feed the body but also helps in nourishing the soul. By her blessings, we are able to eat and survive in this world. Devotees believe that without her grace, there can be no life. Annapurna Puja 2025 Date and Time This year, Annapurna Puja 2025 will be observed on Saturday, 5 April 2025. According to the Bengali calendar, it falls on 22nd Chaitra and is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of Chaitra Navratri. This special day is also known as Basanti Puja in many parts of Eastern India. Where is Annapurna Puja Celebrated? Although Annapurna Puja is mainly observed in West Bengal, it is also celebrated in several states across Eastern and Northern India. Women play a big role in this puja, especially the mothers of the house. As Maa Annapurna is considered a motherly figure, many women take vows and perform this puja with deep devotion. The Story Behind Annapurna Ashtami There is a powerful story behind Annapurna Ashtami. According to Hindu legends, one day Lord Shiva told Goddess Parvati that everything in this world, including food, is just an illusion (Maya). Hearing this, Parvati got upset, as she is the goddess who represents food and all material things. To show the true importance of food, she disappeared from the world. Without her, everything on earth became dry and lifeless. There was no food anywhere, and all living beings began to suffer. Later, she appeared in Kashi (Varanasi) in the form of Maa Annapurna and started a kitchen to feed the hungry. Lord Shiva understood the importance of the physical world and asked her for food. She lovingly served him with her own hands. Since then, Maa Annapurna is worshipped as the goddess who provides food and nourishment, and a grand Annapurna Puja is performed in her honour. Rituals and Rules of Annapurna Puja If youre planning to do Annapurna Puja 2025 at home, heres a simple guide for you: Wake up early and take a bath. Clean your home and the place where the puja will be performed. Set up an idol or photo of Maa Annapurna. Begin the puja by performing Lord Ganeshs puja first. As Maa Annapurna is a form of Goddess Parvati, offer her: Five types of fruits Five kinds of cooked food Five kinds of grains Sweets, vegetables, and other offerings (bhog). Chant or listen to the Annapurna Stotra during the puja. After the puja: Distribute prasad to your family, neighbours, children, and especially the poor and needy. Some also feed cows (goseva) and other animals. Do not waste food on this day, as that goes against the blessings of Maa Annapurna. Why Annapurna Puja is Important The significance of Annapurna Puja goes beyond just worship. It teaches us the value of food and reminds us not to waste it. Food is a blessing, and this day is meant to express gratitude to Maa Annapurna for keeping us nourished and alive. Annapurna Puja 2025 is not just a religious event its a day to thank the divine mother who feeds the world. By worshipping Maa Annapurna, we learn to appreciate food, care for others, and understand that spiritual and physical nourishment go hand in hand. Dont miss the chance to observe Annapurna Puja 2025 and receive the blessings of the goddess of nourishment. For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events. Russell Brand, the British comedian who once defined chaos with eyeliner, unfiltered interviews, and roles in films like Forgetting Sarah Marshall, has officially been charged by Londons Met Police with some of the most serious crimes imaginable. The charges relate to alleged incidents between 1999 and 2005 and involve four separate women. Russell Brand, who is facing assault charges from 4 women | Credit: X Rape and assault cases against Russel Brand by 4 women This all spiralled after a Channel 4 Dispatches documentary and a bombshell Sunday Times investigation dropped last year, where multiple women shared horrifying accounts of rape, sexual assault, and emotional abuse. Since then, police have been actively investigating, and now the 50-year-old will appear in Westminster Magistrates' Court on May 2. Present life of Russell Brand While the world remembers Brand as the eccentric Brit who once peed in a cup on BBC Radio 2 or hooked up with Katy Perry, todays Russell is different. He now lives in the US, preaches spiritual redemption, and backs right-wing narratives online. But none of that zen-talk has saved him from the tsunami of consequences. Russell Brand, who is facing assault charges from 4 women | Credit: X Russell Brands book deal is now suspended, heres why Following the initial reports, Brands book deal was suspended, his live tour got canned, and the BBC scrubbed his face from their archives. The BBC also admitted internal failures after re-investigating past complaints about his inappropriate behaviourincluding exposing himself to a woman and urinating during a live radio show. Apparently, the concerns were never properly addressed at the time. Russell Brand, who is facing assault charges from 4 women | Credit: X Brand, on his part, uploaded a moody social media video denying everything, claiming that while he was once addicted to sex, drugs, and fame, he has never committed rape. He insisted his past was filled with foolishness, not criminality. These new charges have officially brought Russell Brands name from tabloid infamy to courtroom reality. Whether justice will be served or not, one thing is certain: the once untouchable bad boy of British comedy is now at the centre of a legal storm. On the other hand, did you know, the stand-up comedian also has a Sanskrit tattoo. Brands tattoo on his bicep reads, Anuugacchati Pravaha, which roughly means go with the flow. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. A schoolteacher from Canning, South 24 Parganas, attempted suicide on Thursdaya day after the Supreme Court scrapped over 25,000 jobs under the 2016 West Bengal School Service Commission (SSC) recruitment panel. The teacher, namely R Singh, was reportedly under intense financial stress after losing her job and being harassed by creditors. She is currently under treatment at Canning Hospital. The financial and emotional pressure pushed her to the edge. According to her landlord, who sensed something was wrong, the teacher was found unconscious in her room and was immediately taken to the hospital. A suicide note found nearby reveals the depth of her despair. She apologized to her family and current partner, explaining how the loss of her job had shattered her attempts to rebuild her life. A verdict with massive fallout On April 4, the Supreme Court upheld a Calcutta High Court ruling that cancelled the appointment of 25,753 teachers and non-teaching staff made in 2016. The court described the entire selection process as tainted beyond resolution, stating it had been marred by large-scale manipulation, rank-jumping, and fraudulent appointment letters. The Supreme Court ruled that all the appointmentseven those not proven to be taintedwould be declared void due to the extent of irregularities. It ordered a fresh selection process to be conducted. The West Bengal government had appealed the cancellation, but the apex court found no reason to interfere. What happens to the affected employees? Teachers gather in Esplanade (Central Kolkata) | Credit: Indiatimes The court did offer some relief to a few. Disabled candidates who had already been allowed to stay in service by the High Court were permitted to continue, though others in similar situations were denied the same benefit. All terminated candidates, including those not accused of wrongdoing, will be allowed to participate in the fresh recruitment drive with age relaxation. Some of the sacked employees who previously worked in other government departments will have a chance to return. Their service will not be considered broken if they rejoin, and their seniority and increments will remain intact. However, the emotional and financial trauma of job loss continues to haunt many, who are left with little hope in the meantime. A process tainted beyond repair The Supreme Court pointed to WBSSCs destruction of OMR sheets without saving scanned copies, calling it a clear attempt to hide wrongdoing. It said discrepancies in OMR results and marks, along with the appointment of unlisted candidates, showed deliberate manipulation. The court concluded that the cover-up efforts by the commission only worsened the situation and made fair verification nearly impossible. A system that failed its people While the legal system tries to clean up the recruitment scam, thousands of innocent people continue to suffer. A teachers suicide attempt is not just a personal casebut a warning. Behind every cancelled appointment is a human life, one that could be pushed to the edge by a flawed system and a tainted process. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. US President Donald Trump has fired back at China after it imposed new tariffs on American goods. The tensions between the two major economies have escalated further, sparking strong reactions both in financial markets and on social media. They panicked: Trump blames China for overreacting On Friday, Trump said in all caps on Truth Social, China played it wrong, they panicked the one thing they cannot afford to do! His post came after China responded to his earlier tariffs with a 34% duty on US products. Trumps words suggest he believes China made a hasty and costly mistake. He sees their move as a sign of weakness. President Trump responds to China imposing reciprocal 34% tariffs on all imports from the United States: "CHINA PLAYED IT WRONG, THEY PANICKED - THE ONE THING THEY CANNOT AFFORD TO DO!" pic.twitter.com/938mR9dKQL Alex Salvi (@alexsalvinews) April 4, 2025 Markets jittery, lawsuits follow Trump's tough stance Trumps February executive order, which led to the new tariffs, is being challenged in court. A nonprofit group has sued his administration, calling the use of emergency powers unconstitutional. The group argues that these powers were not meant for imposing tariffs that affect American people directly. Meanwhile, global stock markets dropped, and oil prices fell to their lowest since 2021 after Trumps latest tariff announcement. Social media split: some support, others slam Trump On social media, people had mixed reactions. One user tracked the markets movements after Trumps post and said it was already causing investors to worry. Markets look to be reacting to Trump's latest post at ~7:25am MT. As of 7:41am MT, US markets had moved off the bottom but look to be turning back lower after Trump's reply "China played it wrong. They panicked - the one thing they cannot afford to do!" Be interesting to see https://t.co/csBgbBUg02 pic.twitter.com/OqhtXukKDM Dan Tsubouchi (@Energy_Tidbits) April 4, 2025 Another user strongly criticised Trump, writing, This is NOT fucking Poker @realDonaldTrump this is peoples lives! This is the American Economy youre playing with! The emotions online reflect the uncertainty many feel about where this trade battle is headed. Trump: China played it wrong, they panicked - the one thing they cannot afford to do! - Truth Social This is NOT fucking Poker @realDonaldTrump this is peoples lives! This is the American Economy your playing with! JEFFERY @TriggeredCapital (@trentkelp) April 4, 2025 With tariffs rising and tempers flaring, Trumps trade war draws not just global market reactions but emotional responses from citizens too. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. US President Donald Trump said that Vietnam may be ready to eliminate tariffs on American goods. This came after the US slapped a significant 46% tariff on imports from Vietnam, sparking global economic chatter and widespread online reactions. A call that could shift tariff tides President Trump took to his platform, Truth Social, to share that he had a very productive conversation with General Secretary To Lam of Vietnam. Trump stated that the Vietnamese leader expressed interest in removing tariffs completely but only if both sides can strike a fair trade agreement. This comes in response to the hefty tariff imposed by the US on Vietnamese goods, a part of Trumps larger global trade push. Vietnam feels the heat of US tariffs Vietnam, a rising manufacturing hub, was hit hard with the 46% tariff, placing a strain on its trade relationship with the US. Official data shows that the US imported over $136 billion in goods from Vietnam last year, nearly a third of the Southeast Asian countrys GDP. The economic impact is already being felt on both sides of the Pacific. Social media weighs in on tariff drama Social media users had plenty to say about Trumps announcement and its ripple effect. One noted, Nintendo stock jumped after Trump announced on Truth Social that he had spoken with Vietnam about making a deal on tariffs. Nintendo stock jumped after Trump announced on Truth social that he had spoken with Vietnam about making a deal on tariffs pic.twitter.com/o4B6tmg6A6 Charlie Spiering (@charliespiering) April 4, 2025 Another predicted rising costs: Air Force 1s, which currently cost $115, and other Nike shoes are predicted to go up in price after Trumps tariffs on China and Vietnam. Air Force 1s, Which Currently Cost $115, And Other Nike Shoes Are Predicted To Go Up In Price After Trump's Tariffs On China 5 Vietnam. pic.twitter.com/guFu8m80Oa Raphousetv (RHTV) (@raphousetv2) April 4, 2025 A third user dismissed the gesture, saying: Since Vietnam already has low tariffs on us and already buys very little from us, getting their tariffs on us down to 0 is a drop in the bucket compared to Trumps enormous tariffs. Meanwhile, one user speculated: I predict 25% chance President Trump announces pause on Vietnam tariffs before close of market today (65% by end of next week) in respect for Vietnam's good faith suggestion of going to zero tariffs. I predict 25% chance President Trump announces pause on Vietnam tariffs before close of market today (65% by end of next week) in respect for Vietnam's good faith suggestion of going to zero tariffs RC O'Leary (@RCOLeary) April 4, 2025 Trumps tariff push continues to stir markets, as netizens weigh in on Vietnams zero-duty offer and its limited impact. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Actor-director Manoj Kumar passes away at 87 after prolonged illness: The Indian film industry lost a true legend. Actor Manoj Kumar, lovingly known as Bharat Kumar for his patriotic roles, passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital around 3:30 AM on Friday. According to hospital reports, he died due to heart-related problems. His secondary cause of death was decompensated liver cirrhosis. Lets take a closer look at Manoj Kumars net worth, most memorable films, career achievements, and the lasting impact he left on Indian cinema. Who was Manoj Kumar? Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Ji's works ignited a spirit of national pride and will pic.twitter.com/f8pYqOxol3 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 Born as Harikishan Giri Goswami on 13 July 1937 in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumars life changed completely after the partition of India. His family moved to Delhi, where he developed a love for films. Inspired by Dilip Kumars character in the 1949 film Shabnam, he adopted the name Manoj Kumar when he stepped into Bollywood. Manoj Kumar's net worth at the time of death According to Celebrity Net Worth, Manoj Kumar's net worth was estimated to be around $20 million (roughly Rs 170 crore). His wealth came from a long and successful career in Indian cinema where he worked as an actor, director, and screenwriter. Apart from acting, he also directed some of his most famous films, which were box-office hits. Manoj Kumar's movies that made him a legend Over his decades-long career, Manoj Kumar's movies became iconic, especially those with patriotic themes. Some of his most loved films include: Hariyali Aur Raasta (1962) Woh Kaun Thi? (1964) Himalaya Ki God Mein (1965) Shaheed (1965) based on the life of Bhagat Singh Upkar (1967) Purab Aur Paschim (1970) Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974) Kranti (1981) These Manoj Kumar movies not only entertained audiences but also inspired patriotism. His trademark stylecovering part of his face with his handbecame iconic and is still mimicked by comedians and fans. Awards and recognition received by Manoj Kumar Manoj Kumar's awards list is impressive. In 1992, he was honoured with the Padma Shri, one of Indias highest civilian awards, for his contribution to Indian cinema. He also won multiple Filmfare Awards, including Best Director for Upkar and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan. His work was regularly praised for blending emotion, social messages, and national pride. The journey of Bharat Kumar: From fashion to patriotism Manoj Kumars acting journey began with a small role in Fashion (1957). His first lead role came in Kaanch Ki Gudia (1960). But his big breakthrough was Hariyali Aur Raasta in 1962. He starred in romantic and emotional roles initially but became known for patriotic cinema after Shaheed in 1965. Following Indias 1965 war with Pakistan, then-Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri encouraged him to make a film based on the slogan Jai Jawan Jai Kisan. The result was Upkara blockbuster that defined Manojs patriotic image forever. Manoj Kumar's legacy in Indian cinema The Manoj Kumar legacy is unmatched. He wasn't just an actorhe was a storyteller who used films to talk about nationalism, rural life, and Indian values. His work influenced generations of filmmakers and audiences alike. He created a unique place for himself as Bharat Kumar, becoming the face of patriotic cinema in Bollywood. Even today, his films are remembered for their strong messages, emotional depth, and unforgettable music. Manoj Kumar iconic songs As Actor Manoj Kumar died, India mourns the loss of a true icon. His contribution to Indian cinema is priceless. From unforgettable roles to meaningful storytelling, his name will always be linked to Bollywoods golden era. Whether its Manoj Kumar net worth, his legendary movies, his list of awards, or the powerful legacy he leaves behindhe will continue to live in the hearts of fans as Bharat Kumar, the true patriotic hero of Indian cinema. For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here. Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias attended the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Athens War Museum and the Imperial War Museum in London on Friday. The memorandum was signed on behalf of the Athens War Museum by the Chairman of the Board of Directors Konstantinos Karamesinis, and on behalf of the Imperial War Museum by Director-General Caro Howell. The ceremony was also attended by the Greek Ambassador to the United Kingdom Ioannis Tsaousis, and delegations of the Boards of Directors of the two museums. The aim of the memorandum is to facilitate cooperation and the exchange of knowledge and experience between the two museums. With the Agenda 2030, everything in the Greek Armed Forces is changing, and the changes include something we are very proud of: our war museums, and especially the War Museum in Athens," Dendias stressed. "With this effort, the Imperial War Museum will give us expertise and allow us to present our exhibits and our history in a new way so that they have an even greater appeal, especially to the new generation of Greeks," he added. Earlier, Dendias met with the Archbishop of Thyatira and Great Britain Nikitas. On Thursday, Dendias attended the event organised by the Greek Embassy in London in cooperation with the "Together for the Child" Foundation on the theme "Our future matters: protecting children in crisis situations. From struggle to strength". iefimerida.gr A 45-year-old foreign national, wanted by Pakistani authorities for manslaughter under an Interpol red notice, was arrested on Friday morning by police officers in the Exarchia area of Athens. According to police, the suspect is accused of fatally shooting a man inside a house in Pakistan in November 2022 due to personal disputes. The arrested man was taken to the relevant prosecution authorities. iefimerida.gr The Public Power Corporation (PPC) plans to invest 5.75 billion in the Western Macedonia region to establish a green energy and technology hub for Greece and southeastern Europe, the company announced. A key part of the plan is a 2.3-billion, 300-megawatt data center at the Agios Dimitrios power plant. PPC said the facility, potentially one of the largest in Europe , could be operational by 2027 and scaled up to 1,000 MW, depending on demand. The company also intends to invest 1.2 billion to develop solar parks on former mining sites in Western Macedonia, providing a combined capacity of 2,130 MW. An additional 940 million will be allocated for energy storage projects totaling 860 MW. PPC said the Ptolemaida 5 lignite-fired power plant would initially transition into a 350 MW open-cycle natural gas unit by the end of 2027. It could then be upgraded to a 500 MW combined-cycle gas turbine, pending the investment decision for the data center. PPC also plans to invest in Greeces first industrial-scale green hydrogen production unit in the town of Amyntaio through the Hellenic Hydrogen joint venture. The new projects are expected to create up to 20,000 jobs during construction and up to an additional 2,000 when operational, PPC noted. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, speaking at Kardia Steam Power Plant to present PPCs investment plan, described PPC as a national champion. I cannot describe in words how visionary and ambitious this plan is. It is a plan of global scope, not just European scope, which I am absolutely convinced that a company with the financial strength of the PPC and with the support of the Greek state and with access to European financial tools, is a plan that we can all implement together, Mr. Mitsotakis said. iefimerida.gr A discussion on bilateral trade relations between Greece and China, as well as other issues concerning COSCOs activities in the port of Piraeus, was held during the meeting between Chinese Piraeus Chamber and the Chinese Embassy agree to keep an open channel of communication - Europe is unlikely to meet its 2030 hydrogen production targets, despite significant ambitions and funding commitments. According to a research by Westwood Global Energy Group, a specialist energy market research Shipping: Attaining EU goals in hydrogen production encounters challenges - Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis delivered a combative and forward-looking speech to his partys parliamentary group on Friday, seeking to rally New Democracy MPs around a message of unity, discipline, and confidence in the face of recent political turbulence. In remarks that doubled as a reaffirmation of his leadership, Mitsotakis made clear that he intends to lead his party into the next national elections in 2027and expects to win Elections will be held in 2027, and they will be victorious with me at the forefront of the battle, he declared. New Democracy will be in government againand why not, with even more of us in this room. His comments come amid a period of political strain within Greece, triggered in part by public backlash over the tragic train accident in Tempi in early 2023, which claimed dozens of lives and led to intense scrutiny of the government. Mitsotakis acknowledged that the tragedy had dominated the political conversation and allowed opposition parties and certain media outlets to sow confusion among the public. He accused them of exploiting the event for political gain and spreading misinformation. Now it is the truths turn to fight back, Mitsotakis said, arguing that new evidence has revealed what he described as an organized effort to conceal the truth and manipulate public opinion around the national tragedy. He suggested that the government had become the target of a coordinated campaign of distortion, particularly from the opposition. At the same time, Mitsotakis was eager to highlight what he views as overlooked achievements of his administration. He pointed to a series of economic milestones, including five consecutive increases to the minimum wage, the creation of half a million jobs over the past five and a half years, and an unemployment rate now lower than countries such as Sweden. He also noted that wages in the Armed Forces have been raised and drew attention to renewed international interest in Greeces energy reserves, particularly from the American energy giant Chevron, which has expressed interest in conducting exploratory work south of Cretesomething Mitsotakis presented as a recognition of Greeces sovereign rights in the region. Turning to the international stage, the Prime Minister warned of growing global economic instability. He called the recent U.S. decision to launch what he described as a trade war unprecedented in global economic terms, and announced that the Greek governments Economic Policy Council would meet the following Monday to assess how Greece should respond, both nationally and within the EU framework. Domestically, Mitsotakis focused much of his address on internal party discipline and communication. He acknowledged frustration among New Democracy MPs who felt sidelined by ministers, particularly during regional visits where local representatives were not always kept informed. He urged his ministers to improve coordination and treat parliamentary deputies as essential links to the public. Politics is not only about positions, but about everyday behavior, he said. Its about making sure our words are measured and grounded in a landscape dominated by exaggeration and distortion. He emphasized that despite the recent difficulties, it was time to close a cycle of reflectionand perhaps discomfortfor the government and the party, and move forward with renewed confidence. The speech also included a proposal to restructure the partys internal parliamentary coordination. Mitsotakis announced that Apostolos Vesyropoulos would be his nominee for the next secretary of the parliamentary group and said MPs would soon be assigned coordinator roles across six key parliamentary committees. He also opened a new channel for lawmakers to submit practical policy proposals directly to the Prime Ministers office. #ENGLISH_EDITION #KYRIAKOS_MITSOTAKIS The poll highlights that economic issues and the cost of living are currently the most important factors influencing voter decisions. A new poll conducted by Marc has revealed a notable shift in Greek public opinion, with 28.5% of respondents expressing support for a coalition government comprising center-left and left-wing parties: PASOK SYRIZA , Course of Freedom , and the New Left. This grouping, which brings together both traditional and newer political forces, emerges as the most popular government scenario among voters at the moment. The survey, which aired on Greek television network ANT1, highlights that economic issues and the cost of living are currently the most important factors influencing voter decisions. These concerns were cited by 43.7% of participants, followed closely by daily quality-of-life issues, chosen by 41.1%. Despite the rising interest in a broad center-left coalition, 23.8% of respondents still favor a single-party government led by the center-right New Democracy, which currently holds power. A smaller 10.7% of those surveyed would prefer a coalition between PASOK and New Democracy, two parties that have historically alternated in power. The breakdown of voter preferences by party affiliation paints a clearer picture of the current political landscape. Among New Democracy supporters, nearly 77% wish to see their party continue governing alone. SYRIZA voters are the most enthusiastic about the four-party left coalition, with over two-thirds backing the idea. Similarly, 60.5% of Course of Freedom voters want their party to participate in such a coalition. PASOK voters are more divided. While 38.3% favor a partnership with SYRIZA and the other left-leaning parties, more than a quarter27.7%would rather see PASOK join forces with New Democracy. The numbers also show a surprising level of support for the left-wing coalition among voters of traditionally distinct parties: 38.9% of Communist Party voters and 20.2% of voters for the far-right Greek Solution favor the same left coalition. Meanwhile, 18.4% of Greek Solution supporters would like to see New Democracy form a government with other smaller right-wing parties. The poll also addressed institutional reforms. When asked about the controversial law shielding ministers from prosecution during their term, a resounding 91.2% of respondents said they support subjecting ministers to the jurisdiction of regular courts, aligning with growing demands for political accountability in Greece. On immigration policy, a major concern in recent years, 73.4% of Greeks believe the country should adopt a stricter stance, reflecting a hardening of public sentiment on the issue. #POLL #GREECE #MARC Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun, have apprehended a 28-man syndicate involved in deceiving foreigners, mainly Africans, into coming to Nigeria under the guise of assisting with their overseas travel plans. The syndicate was exposed at Oda Road, Akure South Local Council, after one of the victims, who had been held captive for several months, managed to escape and tip off the authorities. During the parade of the suspects alongside other criminals at the corps headquarters in Alagbaka, Akure, on Thursday, Amotekun Commander Adetunji Adeleye revealed that the suspects had tricked their victims, who are Ghanaians, into believing they could assist them in obtaining an Australian visa. Advertisement READ MORE: Lagos Evicts Illegal Occupants Under Adeniji Bridge Adeleye stated that upon arriving in the Oda area of the state, the victims were coerced by the suspects into paying between $1,500 and $2,000. He said: One of the major breakthroughs was the dismantling of a 28-member syndicate involved in kidnapping, human trafficking, and cattle rustling. This group lured unsuspecting individuals with false promises of U.S. visa procurement. We have Ghanaian nationals who were invited to Akure under fraudulent pretences. Upon arrival, they were extortedsome paying between $1,500 and $2,000only to be kidnapped and held in Oda. The syndicate required them to bring in new victims before they could be released. However, due to the intelligence efforts of the Amotekun Corps, we successfully intercepted and rescued them. Jeremiah Amoah, one of the victims, shared that a friend of his was manipulated by the syndicate to persuade him into believing the overseas trip was authentic. He said: A friend called me from Ghana and told me that I should come and do my travel process here in Nigeria to Australia. When I arrived in Lagos, he told me to take a cab and go to Akure. After arriving at Cathedral Junction, I was told to wait; an agent will pick me up. When the agent arrived, he took me to a hotel, and after that, he took my money, which was about $2000. When they collected my money, they took me to another place where they instructed me to bring another person by luring him to Nigeria before Ill be released. I was able to escape at midnight when everyone was asleep. I jumped over the wall. The Amotekun people really tried for us by ensuring that all those involved were arrested and the over 70 victims released. The Amotekun Commander also disclosed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved a ban on commercial motorcyclists operations in the state to address the growing security concerns. The Central Bank of Nigeria has denied a viral claim circulating on social media, saying that it has introduced two new denomination, N5,000 and N10,000 notes. In a statement on Thursday, CBN described the report as fake. The purported Whatsapp message quoted one Deputy CBN Governor, Ibrahim Tahir Jr., saying that the move is aimed at reducing cash-handling costs and providing Nigerians with more efficient means of conducting large transactions. Advertisement The fake report also said that the nationwide rollout would begin on May 1, 2025, with commercial banks instructed to start issuing the new notes via ATMs and over-the-counter transactions. READ MORE: Foreign Reserve Hits $23bn, Highest In Over Three Years CBN Reacting to the message on Thursday, CBN noted that there is nobody identified as Mr. Ibrahim in its leadership. The statement reads: The content is not from the Central Bank of Nigeria. Kindly note that the official website of the CBN is cbn.gov.ng. The only official sources for releasing statements to the media are our website or statements from our department. There is also no Deputy Governor by such name. We are investigating the source of this fake content. Gunmen have once again struck in Plateau State, killing at least 10 people in coordinated attacks on five communities in Bokkos Local Government Area. This latest incident comes just six days after a similar attack in Ruwi, where 10 people were shot dead and three others injured during a wake-keep ceremony. The recurring violence has heightened tensions and fears among residents, who continue to call for stronger security measures. Authorities have condemned the attacks and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. However, concerns persist over the rising insecurity in Plateau and other parts of Nigeria, demanding urgent government action. Advertisement Chairman of the Bokkos Cultural Development Council (BCDC), Farmasum Fuddang, confirmed the incident to newsmen on Thursday. There were attacks on Wednesday and five villages were affected. It started From Mongor but the attackers were chased out by security forces. The attackers then moved to Daffo and attacked the community but security swiftly responded and chased them out. After Daffo, they went to Manguna, Hurti and Tadai villages and launched attacks. In just one week, we have lost over 20 community members due to these marauding terrorists. On April 2 alone, they killed over 10 people. All thanks to the Nigerian military and police for their swift response to distress calls, which helped minimize casualties. Independent National Electoral Commission has rejected the petition to recall lawmaker representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The commission insisted that the petitioners have not met constitutional requirements. INEC in a statement on Thursday, disclosed that the petitioners failed to gather the requisite number of signatures/thumbprints, which must represent more than one-half of the registered voters in the Kogi Central Senatorial District. Advertisement The commission said: The petition for the recall of the Senator representing the Kogi Central Senatorial District has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) READ MORE: INEC Rejects Recall Petition Against Senator Natasha, Says Listed Petitioners Had No Contact Addresses For emphasis, a petition for the recall of a Senator must comply with the provision of Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) which requires the signatures of more than one-half of the registered voters in the constituency. The total number of registered voters in the Kogi Central Senatorial District is 474,554. More than one-half of this figure (i.e. 50%+1) is 237,277+1 which is at least 237,278 voters. Across the 902 Polling Units in 57 Registration Areas and five Local Government Areas that make up the Senatorial District, the commission ascertained 208,132 signatures/thumbprints from the submission made by the petitioners. This translates to 43.86% of the registered voters which falls short of the constitutional requirement by 29,146 signatories. Consequently, the petition has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution. Therefore, no further action shall be taken on the recall of the Senator. Suspended lawmaker representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has faulted Independent National Electoral Commission for spending too much time before rejecting a petition seeking her recall from the Senate. Recall that INFORMATION NIGERIA had reported that INEC on Thursday, declared that the petition filed by a political group from Natashas district failed to satisfy the provisions of Section 69(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The commission further explained that a recall petition must be signed by more than half of the registered voters in the affected constituency. Advertisement Reacting to the development during an interview with Channels Television on Thursday, Senator Natasha argued that most of the addresses provided in the petition for her recall were false because most houses in her district werent labelled. READ MORE: Were Transparent, Not Partisan In Senator Natashas Recall Process INEC Tells Nigerians She said: Even though INEC did count 208,000 signatures, I bet you if they had gone into the verification stage, they would have struggled to even have 500 people come out to attest to signing that. Im a lawyer. Im a senator and I understand how Nigeria works. For me, the most important thing is this recall process has been stalled. I give kudos and credit to INEC even though I believe they should have thrown it away from the get-go. I think it was void ab initio because there is no law in the Electoral Act that says a petition should be discarded just because there is no address but again, what if the address is false? Niger Delta Congress has kicked against President Bola Tinubus declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State. In a statement on Thursday, the group described Tinubus announcement as an attack on democracy. Recall that the former governor of Lagos State, during a nationwide broadcast in March announced that Governor Sim Fubara, his Deputy, Ngozi Nma and the states House of Assembly will be suspended for six months. Advertisement Tinubu cited security concerns behind his decision. Reacting to the development on Thursday, the group by its national Spokesman, Mudlaga Ogboru, said that the state of emergency declared in Rivers could undermine stability in the Niger-Delta region. He maintained that the situation in Rivers could undermine the will of the people of the state. READ MORE: Rivers Crisis: We Dont Recognize Sole Administrator, Emergency Rule Declaration Unconstitutional NBA Tells Tinubu Ogboru urged the people of Rivers to join the protest but with full adherence to the law. He said: Together, we stand united in our pursuit of justice. These actions undermine the will of the people and threaten the stability of the Niger Delta region. The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has guaranteed that corps members who just finished their national service will be paid the outstanding arrears of the N77,000 allowance. Brig Gen Olakunle Nafiu, Director-General of the NYSC, made the assurance during the Batch A 2025 pre-mobilisation session for heads of corps producing institutions and other stakeholders on Thursday in Abuja. The government began paying the N77,000 allowance to corps members in March, eight months after President Bola Tinubu signed the minimum wage bill into law. Advertisement READ MORE: Workers Allegedly Kill Site Engineer, Bury Body In Shallow Grave At Construction Site In Delta Speaking to reporters at the event, the DG stated: The government is quite conscious of its promise and within the budgetary provision, the government is going to handle that. Once funds are released to us to offset the arrears we will pay them. Even our corps members that passed out recently will benefit. Once we receive cash backing for the arrears we are going to credit them; we have their bank details. Nigerians should not fret about that because the government is both responsible and responsive their their needs. The Director of Corps Mobilisation, Mohammed Abubakar, expressed concern that the scheme continues to face significant challenges, especially the fraudulent uploading of unqualified graduates by tertiary institutions. He said: We have made remarkable progress in recent years, greatly reducing challenges, thanks to innovative approaches and better collaboration. However, we still face serious issues, particularly concerning the fraudulent uploading of unqualified graduates, which we must address. As we prepare for another batch of NYSC mobilisation, we must confront the pressing issues affecting our corps members. This process is vital for our nations growth, but it is fraught with challenges, especially the ongoing problem of dishonest enrollments. We must therefore stay alert and be proactive. The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, stated that the scheme requires reform to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration. He said: I remember when the scheme was created in 1973. It was for a purpose. Everything since then has changed. We must therefore reform the scheme to meet our changing society. As Nigeria improves, we must continue to improve the scheme to meet demands. We must address the gaps of how the scheme will prepare our graduates for the job market. Let us reshape the process to meet the demands of the labour market. Reforming the NYSC mobilisation is not the job of the government alone. It is a collaborative effort. We can build an NYSC that is adaptive, inclusive and will serve our future generations. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, pledged the NYSC his full support throughout the service year. The minister, represented by Abdullahi Suleiman, the Mandate Secretary for Youth and Sport at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), stated that the FCT administration would maintain its partnership with the scheme to help achieve its objectives. Labour Partys 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the recent killings in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, calling on the Federal Government to take decisive action against rising insecurity. On Wednesday night, April 2, 2025, armed men attacked five communities in Bokkos, leaving at least 10 people dead. By Thursday, the death toll had risen to over 40 as more bodies were discovered. Obi described the killings as tragic and unacceptable, emphasising the need for urgent security reforms. Reacting to the tragedy on his official X account on Friday, Obi had this to say : I woke up this morning reading about yet another gory and deeply distressing report from Bokkos, Plateau State. Entire families have again, been slaughtered in yet another senseless attack. Children and pregnant women were not spared. Advertisement Five communities in Bokkos: Mangor Tamiso, Daffo, Manguna, Hurti, and Tadai have been left in mourning, forced to bury their loved ones in mass graves. How long will these killings, kidnapping, maiming and criminality continue in our nation that is not at war? How long must we wait to act decisively and focus on this drastic situation that is crippling our nation? How many more must die before the government act for the people? We are now normalizing mass killings and mass burials as a way of life in our nation. Every Nigerian life is sacred, whether in Edo State, Benue, Enugu, Borno, Anambra, Ondo, or Plateau. Communities now live in fear and no longer have a livelihood either in their farms or in their markets, without being killed, kidnapped, and maimed. Communities like Bokkos in Plateau, Jato-Aka in Benue, Eha-Amufu in Enugu, Ufuma in Anambra, and Aba Oyinbo in Ondo deserve government protection. We must end this grief and terror, as this is becoming extremely unacceptable. The government and security agencies must ensure that these killings are stopped, concrete steps are made to prevent future occurrences, and those arrested face the justice they deserve. My heart goes to the people of Bokkos, and others in various communities. No Nigerian should live in fear as the government must do what it takes to protect Nigerians. https://x.com/PeterObi/status/1908054009698726264?t=QKL5vqK4mJJbwR84rNqInA&s=19 The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has announced that preparations are underway for the 2025 budget, with a strong focus on improving key sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure. Ibas emphasised the governments commitment to ensuring fiscal policy aligns with the peoples needs, fostering sustainable development and economic growth, while also addressing key infrastructure and social welfare initiatives. Speaking on Thursday at the Government House in Port Harcourt, while receiving a delegation of the Rivers State caucus at the National Assembly, Ibas stated. Since the Supreme Court verdict on the states budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development. Advertisement We have worked diligently to ensure that the process is transparent, inclusive, and, most importantly, expedited. Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens. The budget, which is being finalised, focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology. We understand the urgency of this initiative, and we are committed to ensuring that it is implemented without delay. The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, has refuted claims that he owes businesswoman Mrs. Tracynither Ohiri N200 million for promotional materials supplied during his 2014 governorship campaign. Umahi strongly denied the allegations, clarifying that there was no such debt. The accusation had been making the rounds, with Ohiri reportedly seeking payment for the materials she provided during the campaign. However, Umahi maintained that all financial obligations regarding the campaign had been properly settled, dismissing the claim as unfounded. This denial has sparked public interest as the matter remains a topic of discussion, with some questioning the veracity of the allegations and others calling for further clarification. Advertisement Speaking to journalists during his tour of the Independence Bridge in Lagos on Thursday, Umahi disclosed: When I left office as the Governor of Ebonyi State and then became a minister, she was going about saying that I owe her N200 million in 2014. The entire election in 2014 for me to be a governor did not cost me up to N100 million; so, how would campaign material be N200 million? He challenged Ohiri to provide evidence of any contract, proof of funds withdrawn, and bank statements to support her claim. Where is the contract paper? Where did you draw the money from? Can you publish your account where you withdrew the money? At least, you would have used up N150 million. Can you publish it. I think that woman is sponsored. I saw what she did to three other governors. I had thought it was a mental case, so I didnt bother but I think some people that have been castigating me that we destroyed their property, staging protests, have bought into the matter. That is why I am going to legally teach whoever is the sponsor some lessons, he added. Independent National Electoral Commission has denied claim made by some Nigerians that it is taking side over the ongoing recall process against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The commission noted that it has been transparent over the exercise, contrary to claim saying that it has been partisan. Speaking during a show via Channels Television on Thursday, Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman of INEC, Rotimi Oyekanmi, stated that theres no way the petition can be granted, due to it failure to meet up with constitutional requirements. Advertisement READ MORE: INEC Rejects Recall Petition Against Senator Natasha, Says Listed Petitioners Had No Contact Addresses He said: In the case of the Kogi Central District, we received a petition and a cover letter and of course what Nigerians were saying was that we were taking sides, Oyekanmi said on the programme. But what happened was that in the covering letter, the representatives of the petitioners did not include their address as required in our regulations and guidelines and what we just did was to ask them to supply their address, it has nothing to do with the petition. And of course, there is nowhere in the law where INEC is asked to reject a petition just because the cover letter did not contain the address. So, there was no hanky-panky in what we did. The law just talks about the threshold, the threshold meaning that if you want to recall, you must have, in addition to your petition, 50 per cent plus one signatures. The law did not specify how many times you can undertake that. Recall that earlier on Thursday, INEC hwd rejected the petition to recall Senator Natasha, saying that it has not met the requirements. The body of 38-year-old site engineer Chigozie Udalor, who was allegedly murdered and buried in a shallow grave by his employees, has been discovered by the Delta State Police Command. SP Bright Edafe, the state Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed this in a video statement released on Thursday. Udalor, hired by his cousin to supervise a construction project, had recruited four young men from Benue State. Advertisement READ MORE: Fire Engulfs Law Firm In Kwara The workers allegedly colluded on December 10, 2024, to attack Udalor with a hammer and strike him in the head. The suspects subsequently buried his body at the construction site in an effort to conceal the crime. The statement read, A sad story of a 38-year-old man who was employed by his cousin as a site engineer. The site engineer, Chigozie Udalor, employed four boys all from Benue State. On 10th December 2024, they conspired and murdered him at the site using a hammer to hit his head and buried him in a shallow grave there at the site. Mans inhumanity to man. His body was exhumed yesterday 2nd April 2025 after arresting two of the suspects. Samir Austin pleaded guilty to third-degree murder during a hearing this week in the Delaware County Courthouse. Read more Mohammed Yesufs parents told a Delaware County judge they werent seeking revenge for his death. But they wanted the teenager who killed their only child inside a crowded deli in Darby to understand the weight of his actions before he was sentenced to decades in state prison. He was our whole world. Everything we hoped for, everything we live for was wrapped up in him, the couple told Samir Austin in a letter read aloud in court this week by a victims advocate. Advertisement All of that is gone now. We are not in grief; we are broken. We are lost. Austin, 16, pleaded guilty Thursday to third-degree murder for shooting Yesuf, 15, twice in the chest inside the Darby Quick Mart in February 2024. He was sentenced by Delaware County Court Judge Dominic Pileggi to 18 to 40 years in state prison. The motive for the shooting, which also wounded an 18-year-old man who was standing near Yesuf inside the store, remained unclear. But in court documents, investigators wrote that a friend of Austins said the teen was upset that people inside the store had stared at him, and fired a 9mm handgun into the business in response. Austins attorney, Gina Amoriello, said during Thursdays hearing that her client had taken responsibility for his actions from the outset. And during his first interaction with Yesufs loved ones dozens of whom crowded into Pileggis courtroom Austin apologized for gunning him down. I want to tell yall Im sorry, from my heart, Austin said. I did not mean for this to happen. ... I hope yall can forgive me. Witnesses inside the store at the time of the shooting identified Austin as the gunman, police said. The shooting was also recorded by the stores surveillance camera, and showed Austin, who was wearing a distinct winter jacket and pants, pull a black 9mm handgun from his waistband before firing. At the time of the shooting, Austin was on probation for assaulting a teacher at Penn Wood High School, where he was a freshman, according to court records. Days after the shooting, investigators executed a search warrant on Austins home in Darby and recovered the clothing he was seen wearing in the surveillance video, as well as a disassembled 9mm ghost gun a firearm assembled from a kit ordered online. Last month, Delaware County Council introduced a measure to ban the unlicensed sale, manufacture, and use of parts for 3D-printed guns without a serial number. Council members are expected to vote on the measure later this month. In their statement to Austin, Yesufs parents, who did not give their names, demanded to know why he had chosen to wield that weapon. They wanted to know why he took their son, for whom they had relocated to Delaware County from their native Ethiopia. You didnt just take a boy. You took our familys future, they wrote. You took our heart, our peace and our reason to live. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones walks on the field before the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pa. Read more As much as Howie Roseman is revered in Philadelphia, Cowboys owner and president Jerry Jones is the other side of the coin hated and mocked in equal measure. So, at an Upper Darby Township council meeting on Wednesday, community activist and council regular Richard Blye cut as deep as possible speaking about mayor Ed Brown during part of his attempt to get abandoned cars removed from his district. Advertisement This is what happens, guys residents of Upper Darby Township when you elect a Cowboys fan to your government, Blye said at the meeting while wearing an Eagles Super Bowl shirt. Twenty-nine years of losing for this team. What do you expect from the leadership? This is a Cowboys fan. This guy follows the Cowboys You see what type of leadership they have and thats what you put your trust in? A Cowboys fan. Sickening. Browns 2023 opponents have to be kicking themselves that they missed that detail in their opposition research. Brown is a 28-year resident of Upper Darby Township and served in several positions in the Upper Darby school district, including on the school board, before running for mayor. Blye declined to comment for this story. An outdoor teaching area along with additional playground space is under construction at Cold Spring School in Gloucester City. The district was going to pay for the project with COVID relief funds that are now in jeopardy. Read more Gloucester City School Superintendent Sean Gorman was stunned to learn this week that President Donald Trumps administration was putting a stop payment on $1.4 million in COVID relief funds to his district. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy notified 20 districts Monday about the federal funding cuts, totaling $85 million and described them in a news release as an attempt to claw back funding for critical infrastructure projects. Advertisement These cuts are reckless and irresponsible, allowing us very little time for contingency plans, Murphy, a Democrat, said in a statement. At a time of unprecedented chaos and uncertainty at the federal level, Washington is failing the next generation. New Jersey schools stand to lose millions of dollars in federal aid after Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced a revised deadline Friday for schools to spend COVID relief money. Some school districts had received extensions to spend that money, but McMahon revoked those approvals. The abrupt notice sent states and districts scrambling to figure out next steps. The funds were approved in 2021 under the American Rescue Plan. Gorman said his district planned to seek $1.4 million in reimbursements from the federal government for three projects. How can you do this to us? This money was promised to us, Gorman said. Murphy was one of several governors across the country to sound the alarm about the lost funding. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, also a Democrat, has not addressed the revised deadline. A spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Department of Education said officials are considering all options to ensure that all funds promised to Pennsylvania are reimbursed appropriately. Heres what to know about the funding that New Jersey officials say is in jeopardy: How many New Jersey districts were affected? Murphy said 20 districts are facing federal funding cuts, including Gloucester City, Delran, Bridgeton, and Penns-Grove-Carneys Point in South Jersey. Why were states given the funds? The federal government awarded about $200 billion in COVID relief funds in 2020-2021 to help schools with the impact of the pandemic, when schools were closed and students were learning remotely. The funds could be used to assist students with learning loss, tutoring, mental health services, and cover construction projects. When was the deadline to spend the funds? According to Education Week, schools had to designate the money for specific projects by the end of September 2024 and spend it by Jan. 30, 2025. Some states requested extensions to allow schools 14 additional months. New Jersey obtained approval for one-time extensions for districts in certain circumstances, according to Laura Fredrick, a spokesperson for the state Department of Education. Fredrick said districts were given more time to seek reimbursements for capital projects such as window replacements or HVAC upgrades that were delayed by supply chain delays or issues beyond their control. The amounts ranged from less than $100,000 to $17 million, Fredrick said, and a new deadline was set for March 28, 2026, she said. Why the sudden deadline to spend the funds? In a letter to state education chiefs, McMahon said more time was not justified and that states and school districts had had ample time to liquidate obligations. Extending deadlines for COVID-related grants, which are in fact taxpayer funds, years after the COVID pandemic ended is not consistent with the Departments priorities and thus not a worthwhile exercise of its discretion, she wrote. Can districts appeal? McMahon said the department would consider extensions on an individual project-specific basis. Gorman and Delran Superintendent Lisa Della Vecchia both said they plan to ask the U.S. Department of Education to reconsider. Della Vecchia, in a letter to the Delran school community, said the district had been expecting more than $717,000 in reimbursements for HVAC upgrades at its high school and middle schools. In Gloucester City, crews are still working on playground improvements at Cold Springs Elementary, Gorman said. Two other projects, a renovated life skills classroom and flooring in a media center, have been completed, he said. It would be a major setback and pushback of other projects, Gorman said Thursday. Both districts said capital reserve funds would be used to cover the costs if they are unable to get federal reimbursement. There are no plans to raise taxes or cut staff. Inquirer staff writer Maddie Hanna contributed to this article. The long-closed Shiraz and La Jonquille restaurants at Lancaster Avenue and Berkley Road in Devon, on April 4, 2025. Read more New life is on the way to the landmark mosaic-tiled Main Line building that housed the Devon restaurants La Jonquille and Shiraz. The complex has sat idle since the restaurants closing nearly two decades ago. Rich Kim, an owner of the critically acclaimed Salt Korean BBQ in North Wales, Montgomery County, told The Inquirer that he and his partners will open a second location of Salt on the first floor and a fine-dining Japanese restaurant on the second floor. A timeline is not fixed, but Kim said he hopes to open in eight months. Advertisement Though some of the over-the-top decor will be preserved, he said, were going to flip it upside down. People will be wowed. He promised an open kitchen and a contemporary look at Salt II, as the ground-floor restaurant will be known. Kim said he had been scouring the Main Line for some time. I was blown away when I saw this, he said. The property, with two buildings on about 2 acres, has 130 parking spaces. He intends to lease out the second building, which previously housed a spa and aestheticians office. The sale will revive a long-dormant property at Lancaster Avenue and Berkley Road in Tredyffrin Township, on the doorstep to Chester County. La Jonquille, a lavishly appointed French restaurant on the first floor with 30-foot ceilings, and Shiraz, a Persian restaurant and banquet room upstairs with hand-hammered murals and hand-painted tile, opened in fall 1999 as the passion project of now-retired Main Line neurologist Matt Vegari and his wife, Sheila, who were eager to showcase the cuisine of his childhood in Iran. Friends had talked the Vegaris into adding the French restaurant and an adjoining brasserie to improve the projects financial prospects. Vegari did not respond to a text message Friday seeking comment. The projects reported $10 million price tag about twice that in 2025 dollars included the collection of parcels that were razed to build the complex. The main building is clad in fieldstone and brick and banded with blue-and-white Persian tiles. Adding to the cachet, the Vegaris brought in a chef from Le Bec-Fin for La Jonquille, a chef from Iran for Shiraz, and a sommelier from the Dilworthtown Inn to oversee a wine collection of more than 8,500 bottles. Everything about the operation was fulsome. Inquirer critic Craig LaBan called La Jonquille the pinnacle of gaudy excess panels of padded fabric on walls of padded fabric, and that Versailles-size chandelier. Its a doozy, but Id hate to clean it. After what Vegari described at the time as a small kitchen fire and management issues, the restaurants closed in 2001. Starting in 2003, Shiraz reopened in fits and starts before the complex closed permanently a few years later. Parts of it were subdivided into offices. The complexs most recent asking price was not disclosed in the real estate flyer. A video tour was posted in 2017. Rev. Jonny Rashid, the son of Egyptian immigrants and pastor of the West Philadelphia Mennonite Fellowship, speaks outside Philadelphia ICE headquarters, where Philadelphia religious leaders gathered and erected an altar, asking for the return of the sensitive locations" policy that protected immigrants in churches from arrest.in Philadelphia, April 3, 2025 Read more Clergy from across Philadelphia erected an altar in front of ICE headquarters on Thursday, decorating it with fruit, flowers, and crosses in a prayerful protest against the Trump administrations decision to let agents make immigration arrests in churches. The demonstration spilled off the sidewalk and onto Eighth Street in Center City, closing the route to traffic. It was held the day before a federal court in Washington was to consider a lawsuit that seeks to restore the ICE policy that barred enforcement at houses of worship. Advertisement We defend the sacred, not ICE, not Trump, New Sanctuary Movement of Philadelphia codirector Peter Pedemonti told the crowd of about 90, who gathered from more than 30 congregations and included Catholics, Buddhists, Mennonites, Unitarians, Methodists, and Jews. ICE officials declined to comment. Outside the nondescript corner ICE office, pastors built an altar out of a plastic folding table and four short Doric columns. They stepped forward one by one to place offerings on its surface apples and tangerines, Tibetan prayer flags, roses, a small carving of Christ with arms outstretched. ICE is trying to take away every safe space, the Rev. Jonny Rashid, son of Egyptian immigrants and pastor of the West Philadelphia Mennonite Fellowship, told the crowd. People who used to rely on the U.S. for protection are now living in fear. ICE had long deemed houses of worship and other sensitive locations off-limits for arrests, except in extraordinary circumstances. But a January directive by President Donald Trump eliminated those restraints in what the administration said was a move to keep American citizens safe. Criminals will no longer be able to hide in Americas schools and churches to avoid arrest, the Department of Homeland Security, which governs ICE, said in a statement at the time. The Trump administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement, and instead trusts them to use common sense. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement policy had kept agents from acting not only at churches but also at hospitals, schools, colleges, funerals, and demonstrations. The policy enabled the most desperate undocumented immigrants to take sanctuary in churches, blocking their deportation by putting themselves beyond the reach of ICE. More than a dozen migrants took sanctuary inside Philadelphia churches during Trumps first administration, the most of any city in the country. Some spent years inside. Most were women and children. They couldnt go out, but ICE agents couldnt go in. Since Trumps election to a second term, activists who helped shelter immigrants in churches in Germantown, University City, and North Philadelphia have pledged fresh resistance, pointing out that a knock on the door does not automatically require an answer. New Sanctuary Movement has been alerting church leaders that the change in policy does not mean ICE can enter at will. Pedemonti earlier advised clergy to ask to see legal judicial warrants if agents appeared. No one is currently living in church sanctuary in Philadelphia, according to NSM. But pastors said Thursday that the threat of enforcement was chilling, that congregants worried they might be arrested as they went to or from services, and that even a door opening mid-sermon could jangle nerves. Theres a lot of fear, but were here, the Rev. Christopher Neilson, founder and pastor of the Living Church, told demonstrators. Were here to affirm and reclaim the sanctity of our space, to say that our space is sacred. He prayed, he said, not just for immigrants at risk of arrest, but also for the officers of ICE, adding, Were telling you we do love you. In January several Quaker groups, including one in Philadelphia, sued the Department of Homeland Security over Trumps revocation of the sensitive-locations policy. A federal judge paused the policy change for Quaker, Sikh, and Baptist congregations affiliated with the lawsuit. That suit, filed in Maryland, claimed that allowing armed government agents wearing ICE-emblazoned jackets to park outside a religious service and monitor who enters or to interrupt the service and drag a congregant out during the middle of worship is anathema to Quaker religious exercise. The complaint asserted that the very threat of that enforcement deters congregants especially members of immigrant communities from attending services, which is detrimental to the groups religious exercise and violates First Amendment rights of religious liberty. In February, the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection at Georgetown Law filed a second, similar lawsuit on behalf of two dozen Christian and Jewish denominations. They claimed that Trumps directive greenlights enforcement actions that could interrupt religious services in furtherance of the administrations mass deportation plans. The plaintiffs asserted that the government was interfering with their religious activities and their ability to fulfill their religious mandate to welcome and serve immigrants. It is up to us as clergy to respect the sacred spaces, said Msgr. Hugh Joseph Shields, a retired priest of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia who attended the Thursday protest, and not let man-made rules override the places where God has deemed us to be. About 47,000 undocumented people live in Philadelphia, their lack of legal status putting them at risk during what Trump promises will be the largest deportation campaign in American history. Those in the city are among 153,000 undocumented statewide, with an additional 440,000 in New Jersey. Many Americans want them, among 13.7 million in the country illegally, to be deported. Nearly a third say all undocumented immigrants should be deported, and half want some people kicked out under certain circumstances, according to new findings by the Pew Research Center in Washington. The majority of those polled believe the federal government should be allowed to arrest those here without permission at their homes, at their jobs, and at protests or rallies, but not at schools, hospitals, or houses of worship. Were here to demand that the government open itself to the truth, Rabbi Linda Holtzman of Tikkun Olam Chavurah told demonstrators Thursday. We are here in front of ICE because we know that ice can melt. In an effort to prevent medical emergencies and deaths in Philadelphia prisons, the city is rolling out bracelets that monitor incarcerated peoples health in real time, potentially preventing health crises from conditions such as drug overdoses. The bracelets, to be worn on the wrists or ankles, will be distributed to women incarcerated at the Philadelphia Industrial Correctional Center later this month in a pilot program expected to expand to other facilities, Prisons Commissioner Michael Resnick said. Advertisement The bracelets will monitor peoples vital signs and alert prison staff of emergencies that include drug withdrawal, suicide attempts, or overdoses, he said. They have sensors that monitor heart rate, respiration rate, oxygen levels, and physical movement. Initially, the bracelets will be provided to people entering the prison and will be worn for five days, the period when people are most at risk of health crises from withdrawal from drugs or other health issues from living on the street. After that, medical staff will determine if they need to wear them longer. If someone is in medical distress, the bracelets automatically trigger alarms that are sent to staff. Resnick said the bracelets would be a tool to help provide medical care to people as quickly as possible. What I am trying to do with this is to ensure that when somebody has a medical incident, a medical emergency, we respond almost instantaneously, he said. The bracelets are a response to instances over the years in which incarcerated people have died inside Philadelphia prisons, sometimes due to what advocates see as preventable health issues. Last month, 42-year-old Andrew Drury, who had struggled with addiction, died inside Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility just days after he was arrested in Kensington, officials said. According to records from the Department of Prisons, Drury had been flagged as an emergency case by an intake worker at the jail and should have had supervision in the hours before he collapsed. He ultimately died alone inside a holding cell without a formal behavioral health evaluation by prison staff, records show. Drury was found collapsed inside the prison intake room by officers who administered two doses of Narcan, among other lifesaving measures, but he did not regain consciousness. His death remains under investigation. His death followed that of Amanda Cahill, who died inside a cell at PICC in September, days after she was arrested in Kensington on drug charges and open warrants. The Philadelphia Medical Examiners Office ruled that she died of drug intoxication. Tom Innes, director of prison policy for the Defender Association of Philadelphia, welcomed the bracelets as a way to summon needed medical help quickly. These bracelets are in a way having a doctor on your wrist," he said. Beanca Gordner, on way to Columbia County, PA., stopped to visit son in Philadelphia when she claims her car was hit by Philadelphia Parking Authority vehicle. She is holding a photograph of her vehicle after it was pushed onto the sidewalk behind her. Photograph taken Wednesday morning April 2, 2025 along Bainbridge just east of S. Broad Street. Read more Beanca Gordner, 57, was passing through South Philadelphia, visiting her son whod just had a birthday, when a Philadelphia Parking Authority employee crashed into her parked car in late January, pushing it halfway onto the sidewalk. The only clues left for her were two notes on the windshield of her white 2014 Chevy Cruze. Advertisement Vehicle involved in accident call PPA, read one of the notes, with a number said to belong to a manager. The other slip of paper listed her police report number, which she would later learn got her name and some of her vehicle information, including registration, wrong. I had to do my own investigation to try and find out what happened to my vehicle, Gordner said. Gordner, who was headed from Florida to Berwick, Pa., to start her new juicing business, is now at odds with the PPA over what is fair after what appears to have been a freak accident. Though the PPA said it is limited in what it can say publicly regarding a personnel matter, Gordner feels she is entitled to all the details related to the accident. All she knows is based on the one-paragraph summary of the incident in the police report, which says the PPA employees clipboard got caught in between the steering wheel, causing the driver to lose control as she drove eastbound on Bainbridge Street. Adding to Gordners frustrations, she and the PPA disagree over what is owed to her and how long it has taken to reimburse her. Gordner asked the authority for $15,000 for her troubles. The ask was immediately rejected by the PPA, she said. The PPA would not cover a rental car, and Gordner thinks the PPA should reimburse her for towing and storage her car remains in a lot after the crash. The PPA alleges that it was waiting on Gordner to submit the necessary documents and that some of her demands, including reimbursement for lost wages and $3,600 for emotional distress, were unreasonable. Because the vehicle will not be repaired, the parking authority agreed to pay Ms. Gordner nearly three times the blue book value of her car to address the issue she raised, PPA spokesperson Martin ORourke said in prepared remarks. While Ms. Gordner has indicated a desire to go to the press or sue the PPA, the parking authority remains willing to resolve this matter amicably. Gordner began talking with a PPA representative on Jan. 30, though she said the number left on her windshield was the wrong one and led to a disconnected line. According to the authority, she was asked to provide a drivers license, the declaration page of her insurance, a copy of her registration, and an itemized estimate to repair the damage. The latter had to come from a licensed auto mechanic or repair/auto body shop. ORourke said the PPA did not receive the last of the documents until March 14 after a reminder letter was sent out to Gordner in late February. From Gordners perspective, the instructions that were first provided over the phone were not clear, and she feels the PPA should have handled getting the estimate for the repairs. She said she had difficulty finding someone that would go to the lot where her car had been towed. She also feels like her request is a reasonable one. Her car is her prized possession, she explained. Despite having close to 180,000 miles, it was a reliable mode of transportation. So much so that when Gordner had enough of hurricane season in Florida and made the move back home to Columbia County, Pa., she loaded her Chevy onto a car hauler to save on miles. Her plan was to begin her juicing business once she was in Northeastern Pennsylvania, but she has remained in Philly with her son as she sorts out her reimbursement. On Tuesday, the PPA sent Gordner a letter saying that now that it had all the required documentation, it could process her claim. The authority offered her just over $5,800. Gordner is disappointed and considering legal action. Im just not sure yet which way Im going, she said Wednesday. Sheriff Rochelle Bilal and Capt. Nicole Nobles spoke at a 2022 news conference to announce a warrant sweep. Last August, police took a stolen vehicle report at Nobles' home after her city-leased SUV went missing. But the complainant is listed as a Jane Doe, and the case wasn't investigated until this year. Read more Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal disclosed this week that she is conducting an internal investigation into how her staff failed to notify city fleet officials that an SUV assigned to her deputy had allegedly been stolen and wrecked. But new details about the four-car crash in West Philly last summer first reported Monday by The Inquirer shed light on the bizarre series of events, while raising more questions about how the case was mishandled. Advertisement The Inquirer has learned that the high-ranking official in Bilals office who was assigned the SUV as a take-home vehicle was, unusually, not identified by name in a police report filed days after the wreck. READ MORE: An SUV assigned to the Philly Sheriffs Office ran a red light and caused a four-car crash. Then, the case disappeared. Witnesses said the 2024 Ford Expedition was speeding down Cedar Avenue around 6:47 a.m. on Aug. 10 with police-style emergency lights and sirens activated when the driver blew through a light at 57th Street and was struck by a car that had a green light. The Expedition hit a parked pickup truck, which then hit another parked vehicle. The driver who emerged from the SUV was not a deputy. He was described by witnesses as a young man in a tank top carrying what appeared to be a brown or light-colored poodle. He fled the scene with the dog. Police failed to promptly investigate the crash of the city-leased vehicle, and no charges were filed. The incident also eluded scrutiny from the Philadelphia Department of Fleet Services until January, when someone at the sheriffs office requested a replacement vehicle. That request prompted an investigation into the whereabouts of the prior SUV, according to a city official who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Bilal has declined to disclose the identity of the deputy to whom the car was assigned. On Aug. 13, three days after the crash, police responded to a report of a car theft on Osage Avenue. A woman there reported that her vehicle had been stolen from outside her home. Unusually, the report describes the complainant only as an unknown female even though police directives for stolen vehicles instruct officers to request a complainants license, registration, and insurance. The individual making the report is listed as a Jane Doe, confirmed Cpl. Jasmine Colon-Reilly, a police spokesperson, in a statement Tuesday, using law enforcement terminology for a victim whose name is either unknown or concealed. Property records show the Osage Avenue address listed on that report is a home owned by Capt. Nicole J. Nobles, a top deputy in the sheriffs office who leads its warrant unit. Responding officers wrote in the report that they later determined the missing vehicle was the same one that had been towed from the Aug. 10 crash scene. But then the case seemed to disappear. Though it was documented by patrol officers at the scene, a police supervisor failed to notify the departments Crash Investigation Unit about the crash, per department protocols for thefts or collisions of vehicles under city control, police later said. Colon-Reilly said Monday that police are doing an internal investigation now into what happened, and why those notifications werent made. Bilal said this week she was made aware of the reported vehicle theft on Aug. 13, but did not learn until January that no one within her chain of command had reported the incident to fleet services, which all departments are required to do immediately if one of the citys leased cars is stolen, crashed, or even lightly damaged. An Inquirer reporter who visited Nobles home on Osage Avenue was greeted at the front door by a middle-aged man with a barking (but friendly) dog that appeared to be a beige poodle. He said he would relay a message to Nobles. She has not responded to subsequent requests for comment. Financial records obtained through a Right-to-Know request show that the sheriffs office used a discretionary slush fund to cover the cost of sending Nobles to a law enforcement convention in New Orleans last summer. According to a conference listing, the event was scheduled to run from Aug. 9 to 13, a span that overlaps with the crash and subsequent theft report. Bilal on Thursday declined to answer any questions about Nobles, why the theft was apparently reported anonymously, or whether the SUV might have been driven by someone with access to Nobles keys. We do not investigate stolen vehicles or vehicle accidents, she said in a statement. The Philadelphia Police Department is leading this investigation, and we kindly refer you to the PPD for any further inquiries. Late-model Ford vehicles are equipped with engine immobilizers, meaning that a thief would likely have had to hack the Expeditions computer system. That can be done, for instance, through a relay attack in which a thief intercepts and redirects the keys signal, or by physically breaking into the vehicle and accessing the onboard diagnostics systems. Those and other strategies require special equipment and are typically used by professional thieves who are stealing cars as covertly as possible, experts told The Inquirer, not a person with a dog who would draw attention to himself by activating a cars flashing lights and sirens. Someone with that kind of equipment, youd be expecting them to steal multiple cars, not just going for a joyride, said Michael Brooks, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, a consumer advocacy group. Theyd probably be looking to take it to a chop shop or sell it. Philadelphia Police Major Crimes Lt. Brian Geer, who investigates stolen vehicles in the city, declined to comment on an active investigation. In general, though, Geer said thieves rarely target modern Ford Expeditions. The city typically sees only a handful of those SUVs stolen each year. Hondas, Nissans, and Infinitis are among the most commonly targeted for theft due to the value of the vehicles and their parts on the black market. I would not put Fords on the list of problematic cars with this kind of thing, Geer said. Charlene Maddox Chimilio and her two children, Zechariah (left) and Jezreel (right). She is holding a photograph of her husband, Jesreel Chimilio, in Philadelphia, Tuesday, April 2, 2025. Read more Jesreel Chimilio is a family man. Hes also hardworking, God-fearing, and a respected member of his community. When neighbors need help, hes the guy they go to. Philly needs more men like him. Chimilio shouldnt be locked up like a common criminal, arrested in front of his house by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. Advertisement His familys nightmare started as a typical Saturday in February. Charlene Maddox Chimilio was inside her home in Germantown preparing for a trip to the Please Touch Museum. Chimilio was on his way to work at a property management firm. Thats when a phone rang. It was a neighbor calling to tell Maddox Chimilio that her husband was outside yelling her name. Barefoot and wearing only a bathrobe, she raced to see what was happening. But it was too late. The love of her life and the father of her two children was gone. She stood outside crying, They took my husband, until a neighbor coaxed her indoors. Maddox Chimilio, 42, hasnt seen him in person since that cold day in February when life as she knew it changed. Since then, she has been a nervous wreck, barely eating or sleeping. Ive never experienced this before so its just, like, a lot, she said. Maddox Chimilio was walking along Church Lane in 2018 when Chimilio spotted her for the first time and said hello. She gave him her phone number and that kicked things off. They married in 2022. I fell in love with Jes because of how he knew the Bible, Maddox Chimilio recalled. And hes a kind guy. Hes a smart guy. Hes a resourceful guy. Hes a good guy. Her husband was 17 when he moved from his native Belize to the United States with his mother in 2002. In 2011, he was arrested on DUI and drug charges and served an 11-month prison sentence. But he had no further run-ins with the law until earlier this year, when Montgomery County police pulled him over on Feb. 2 and discovered he was driving without a license. (Like most states, Pennsylvania doesnt permit undocumented immigrants to obtain licenses, which is a failing of the system that needs to be corrected.) Immigrants who already live here need additional paths to citizenship. Hes married to an American citizen, with two children, a 3-year-old and a 9-month-old, Maddox Chimilio said. He overstayed his visa, she said. But we have a president with [multiple] felonies, and hes the president. Chimilio is among an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants who live in the United States. Many have been here for years, pay taxes, own residences, raise families, and are otherwise law-abiding. Roughly 4.1 million American children live with an undocumented parent, according to the American Immigration Council. READ MORE: Immigration reform, not crackdowns, would help America thrive | Editorial There are so many horror stories about immigrants being treated the way Chimilio was, as President Donald Trump ruthlessly goes about fulfilling his campaign pledge to crack down on illegal immigration. By now, I should be way past being shocked, but Im not. It has just been one awful incident after another: seven workers at the Complete Autowash Philly in January; a married couple from Turkey who own the Jersey Kebab eatery in Haddon Township; four undocumented Brazilians at the Jumbo Meat Market in the Northeast. Most never make the headlines. About a third of all Americans are all for whats happening, according to a recent Pew poll. But hopefully, somewhere down deep in their souls, they know there needs to be a more humane way to enforce the nations immigration laws. Immigrants who already live here need additional paths to citizenship. Maddox Chimilio, who is a schoolteacher, is in the process of applying for asylum for her husband. She shouldnt have to navigate this alone. We must rally around her. Politicians should reach out to the appropriate federal agencies on Chimilios behalf. He needs to be at home while his situation gets sorted out. Its really deplorable to pull a man away from his wife and children, said Robin Nicole Sephes, whos a friend of the Chimilios. Every time I saw him, he was either going to work or coming from work, or he had a baby in his hand feeding the baby, helping his wife who is one my best friends. She added: The block loves them. Theyre just really great people. You dont meet people like them too often. They dont deserve this. During a meeting in Lower Merion on Thursday, Montgomery County Commissioners Jamila Winder and Neil Makhija, both Democrats, said they were considering possible ordinances to protect immigrant and LGBTQ residents. Read more Neighbor after neighbor, Montgomery County residents approached the dais Thursday at the countys biweekly board of commissioners meeting with one primary request. They wanted the county to approve a welcoming-county ordinance that would commit the county to support immigrant residents and refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Advertisement Immigrants are also our neighbors, theyre also our friends, and theyre very vulnerable right now, said Randy Libros, who, like many who spoke at the meeting, lives in Cheltenham. We really want to know that our county cares. We must have some sort of umbrella protection for them, not programs here and there, Amy Freed added. Tom Petersen, another Cheltenham resident, asked the commissioners directly: Would they consider a welcoming city ordinance? The answer is absolutely, responded Neil Makhija, a Democrat who chairs the board. At the meeting, which was held in Lower Merion, Montgomery Countys governing board said they were open to and considering options for both a welcoming city ordinance protecting immigrants and a local nondiscrimination ordinance expanding protections to LGBTQ residents. But timing and details of the policies are unclear as Makhija and fellow Democratic commissioner Jamila Winder said they are discussing legal options with county attorneys and contemplating threats of retaliation from President Donald Trumps administration. This is a tightrope that we are on, Winder said. We dont want to be in a position to lose federal funds but we cant change our values because the president of the United States changes. As the Trump administration has taken on aggressive immigration enforcement, at times deporting residents who were legally residing in the United States, immigration advocates have encouraged local governments to approve welcoming city ordinances barring law enforcement interaction with Immigration and Customs Enforcement and adopting local policies aimed at supporting immigrants. The policies closely mirror sanctuary city policies adopted by cities including Philadelphia during Trumps first term, but the new name has become popular as the administration has vowed to target sanctuary cities. Earlier this year, Montgomery County hired Nelly Jimenez-Arevalo to be the countys first director of immigrant affairs, a move Makhija said would be a first step toward ensuring immigrants could feel supported and protected interacting with county services. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, just over 11% of the countys population is foreign-born. Makhija and Winder said they have been in touch with several immigrant advocacy organizations and county attorneys to determine what more the county could do. The one Republican on the board, Tom DiBello, did not comment on the requests. After another resident, Elizabeth Landon, urged the board to also think about protecting LGBTQ residents, Makhija said that he was having discussions about whether it would be legally possible to enact a nondiscrimination ordinance in the county. After the meeting, Petersen said he was optimistic about the commissioners response on immigration, but that he planned to continue attending meetings to apply pressure. We have to take a strong stand and so I would certainly hope that they would look at some language for a welcoming act, he said. Since identifying these issues, our focus has been on putting this right for our customers who were impacted, providing them with their refund and apologising for our mistakes, said CEO Amanda Whiting. We are doing everything to prevent these issues happening again. We have seen a spike in suspicious activity across our member portal and mobile app, and we are urging members to take steps to protect themselves online, she said. While we took immediate action to lock these accounts and let those members know, there are things members can do right now to protect themselves online. The one-size-fits-all approach no longer meets the needs of todays maturing cyber insurance market. An adaptive service model that dovetails with the cyber strategies of insureds and enables them to import the expertise and services they need, when they need them, will lead to better outcomes for insureds and insurers alike, he said. Dannys extensive experience in strategic benefits consulting, carrier relationships, and market analysis makes him a valuable asset to our team, said Kevin Overbey, president of Alliant Employee Benefits. His ability to develop tailored solutions that align with business goals while maximizing employee value will help our clients optimize the value of their programs. Burke, with over a decade at RT Specialty, has contributed significantly to the firms growth in Florida. Johnson, who joined in 2022, specializes in environmental casualty and fire/water restoration risks. These promotions reflect the firms commitment to supporting its growth and expanding its capabilities, the company said. CyXS has been a great success with our clients across the globe, as it has and continues to be focused on serving their needs and increasing demand for innovation that truly address their needs, said Peter Foster, global cyber chairman at Willis. My understanding is that the courts haven't had a lot of opportunity for that reform to take effect, if it truly was going to make a difference, Temple said. This time the difference is that weve gone another four years. We have costs that continued to climb. People and businesses are at that breaking point where it's just not working anymore. By Laman Ismayilova A concert dedicated to the 80th anniversary of composer Leonid Vainshtein will take place at the State Academic Philharmonic Hall on April 20. The concert will feature the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra (artistic director and chief conductor Fuad Ibrahimov), the Azerbaijan State Choir Chapel (artistic director People's Artist of Azerbaijan Gulbadzhi Imanova), and the Choir of the Azerbaijan State Children's Philharmonic (artistic director Dilyara Aliyeva). During the evening, the concert will showcase works by Leonid Vainshtein, in which he expressed his joy and happiness, as well as his sorrow and tragedy. Leonid Vainshtein is a distinguished representative of the Azerbaijani school of composition and a student of Gara Garayev. His notable works encompass the ballet "Inspiration," the rock opera "White Sun of the Desert," and a series of children's operas, including "Puss in Boots" and "Cinderella." Leonid Vainshtein composed six symphonies for large symphony orchestra, a Violin Concerto, a Concerto for string orchestra, and a string quartet. Additionally, he created the triptych "Memorial" for organ, dedicated to the memory of the Khojaly massacre, and the cantata "Azerbaijan-60" for symphony orchestra and mixed choir. His oratorio "I Want to Return to the Sea" features soloists, a male choir, and symphony orchestra, set to the poems of Nazim Hikmat. Leonid Vainshtein also wrote a vocal series titled "Sea, Sky, and Love," which is based on poems by Nabi Khazri, along with music for theater, films, variety shows, romances, and songs. One of his recent compositions is the romance "Your Spring Will Come to Azerbaijan!" The Hanover, based in Worcester, Massachusetts, named Dick Lavey to the newly created role of chief operating officer, the property-casualty insurer said. Lavey has 35 years of experience in insurance and technology, including the past 19 years at The Hanover Group. Since 2017, he has been executive vice president for agency markets. He will continue to lead personal lines and commercial business, as well as sales and distribution, corporate underwriting, marketing, and risk solutions functions, the company said in a news release. He also will lead the collaboration between the companys business and technology organizations. Lavey holds a masters in business administration from Harvard Business School. Prior to joining The Hanover in 2004, Lavey was vice president of strategic initiatives for The Hartfords property and casualty organization and was vice president of strategic marketing for The Hartfords Select Customer division. Prior to that, he worked at two software companies, ChannelPoint and Bowstreet, and was a strategy consultant for CSC Healthcare. He began his career at The Travelers Insurance Company. The Hanover is one of the oldest insurance firms in the country. It was founded in 1852, underwent a name change, then rebranded in the 1990s. Topics Talent Off the coast of Nigeria, one of the worlds largest oil production ships, called the Bonga, was taking oil from a field on the ocean floor and transferring it to a tanker ship. Such transfers are routine in the offshore oil industry, but something went wrong on the Bonga, owned by energy giant Shell. A major leak began in one of the lines that connected the two vessels. Over the next three hours, the crew detected that more oil was being pumped from the ship than the tanker was receiving. Another hour passed before an oily sheen was spotted on the water. An hour after that, the crew member in charge of the fueling shut off the flow. By then, about 40,000 barrels of oil had escaped into the Atlantic Ocean, according to an English High Court evaluation, making the December 2011 incident one of Nigerias worst spills in a decade. At the height of the spill, an oil slick spread over 685 square miles (1,776 square kilometers), twice the size of New York City. Nigerian regulators later fined the subsidiary Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) $3.6 billion, an amount being appealed today. Now a confidential review of Shells fleet of production ships, obtained by The Associated Press, plus internal company safety surveys and interviews with two whistleblowers, show that as recently as three years ago almost 11 years after the Bonga spill there were safety issues with the fleet, including the Bonga. The 2022 review found fault with the same systems involved in the Bonga spill. The whistleblowers said the problems risk another Bonga-type disaster. Problems Flagged as High Risk Oil production ships like the Bonga are a critical part of the offshore oil industry. Often permanently moored in one location, they take oil from wells on the ocean floor and transfer it to tankers. The 2022 review of the Bonga was an attempt to address maintenance and safety problems in Shells oil production ship flotilla. It was authored by Shell senior maritime auditor Zubair Ali Khan. It found issues on several ships, ranging from corrosion to bad upkeep and poor firefighting systems, and cited a lack of clear and established standards and processes. For example, the report noted continuously deficient systems for oil transfer and firefighting and lifesaving equipment. Oil transfer systems are what had failed in the massive 2011 spill, and in 2022, the problems on the Bonga with oil transfer systems were deemed high risk. Replying to a LinkedIn message, Khan declined to comment. Tony Cox, an accident investigator with decades of experience in the offshore oil industry, said it was concerning that transfer problems persisted on the Bonga 11 years after the giant spill given that transfers are a recognized hazard and well known to be a potential point of spillage. A Shell spokesman said by email that the companys safety record was continuously improving. Serious accidents aboard this ship have gone down from one per year on average to zero since 2018, Shell said, with less serious incidents reduced by 70% and spills by 90% since 2020. A total of 369 pieces of critical safety equipment were not in satisfactory condition in 2014, the spokesman said, dropping to two last year. Shell did not respond when asked if all the recommendations in the report were adopted. Problems With Other Ships Beyond the Bonga ship, the 2022 internal safety report said there were other recurring incidents. The report described severe corrosion in pipes and protective barriers around oil tanks in the vessel Fluminense, off Brazil. Two workers were left with moderate to severe burns after an incident on a vessel off the U.S. coast in 2016. There were degraded facilities on the gas-producing ship Prelude anchored off Australia, where fire broke out in 2021. In 2023, more than a year after the safety report, problems on the Prelude persisted, according to Australian regulators who found health and safety violations related to exposure to chemicals and risk of an explosion. They ordered improvements. In the case of the Prelude, Shell said a dedicated local team of safety engineers and experts looked after the vessel but didnt provide more details. Other incidents have been reported by regulators or in the press. For example, another Shell ship off Nigeria, the Sea Eagle, began to take on seawater in 2022 and needed urgent repairs, something Cox said was highly unusual for floating production vessels. The company is currently in the midst of a wrongful dismissal lawsuit with a former employee, a safety engineer from London, whom Shell said was fired for poor performance. An interim court ruling leaned toward Shells argument and a Shell spokesman said the company is clear about the merits of our case. The former employee, Irina Woodhead, advised on safety standards aboard the Prelude. She said that in the 2021 fire incident off Australia, safety systems didnt activate. Seven people had to seek medical treatment for heat exhaustion, Shell said. Woodhead said she blew the whistle on safety failings and was fired for doing so. One mistake can cost a lot of lives, Woodhead said, and a future disaster is absolutely possible. If you dont maintain that equipment, thats when the fires happen, thats when the explosions happen. Regarding the Fluminense, off Brazil, a Shell spokesman said it identified problems, shut down production and took the vessel out of service. In the case of the Sea Eagle, off Nigeria, the spokesman said Nigerian regulators were promptly informed of the leak and it was swiftly repaired. The incident that left two workers with burns off the coast of the U.S. in 2016 isnt reflective of the companys overall safety culture, he said. Safety Surveys Raised Concerns Similar issues were raised in safety surveys carried out by statistician Caroline Dennett, a former Shell consultant. Beginning in 2012, she surveyed thousands of Shell workers on the companys safety culture. She quit in 2022 over Shells climate policies and became an activist. The surveys measured employees perception of performance in 10 areas, including maintenance, communication and safety awareness. Surveys obtained by AP of 97, 159 and 128 workers on the Bonga, done in 2012, 2014 and 2021 respectively, show that employees views of company performance overall dropped in nine categories. The Bonga was problematic from day one, said Dennett, citing a lack of manpower, difficulty getting spare parts and falling standards. The fear was getting more severe over time as skilled personnel were not replaced, she added. The surveys also invited workers aboard the vessel to make their own comments. Based on these, in 2014, Dennett was concerned enough to write to a Shell manager, flagging worker fears that Bonga was a keg of gunpowder and in impending peril, with everyone on it at risk. The manager promised to act. The next year, a leaked memo by the operational safety team for Nigeria said the need for drastic improvements was shown by the 2012 survey. They were also worried by the thought provoking 2014 survey, which had worse results. In an email, Shell said safety has improved on the Bonga since the 2012 and 2014 surveys, when a worker described it as a powder keg. Still, as recently as 2021, some 59% of workers on the Bonga thought maintenance needed either a lot of or some improvement. Another 3% said it was failing outright. Only 28% of team leaders felt positively about the levels of maintenance the company performed on its equipment. A majority, 57%, were concerned about the level of resources and expertise on the vessel. In response, the company noted that more than 90% of those surveyed in 2021 felt positive about another category measured, the Bongas safety processes, and the overwhelming majority felt comfortable speaking out about problems. Internal emails seen by AP show Shell safety experts and lawyers had agreed that if 10% of workers thought a safety category was failing or needed considerable improvement, it would be considered legally critical. The issue would then need to be resolved within 18 months. If that figure hit 20%, it would be urgent with a one-year deadline. The negative responses about the Bonga more than passed these thresholds. But the company later eliminated these commitments, according to an email seen by AP. This steer comes from legal, Shell health and safety advisor Bradd McCaslin wrote to another Shell safety manager in 2018. After that date, the thresholds disappeared from surveys reviewed by AP. Safety reviews dont work if people dont make the suggested improvements, said safety expert Cox. McCaslin did not respond to LinkedIn messages from AP seeking comment. In internal correspondence from 2012, also seen by AP, Shells U.S. operations chose not to use the surveys at all after a lawyer raised legal liability concerns. The company said its common practice for legal teams to advise on processes, and it doesnt fall to just one team to direct how risk is managed. Rich Howe, Shells vice president for deep water operations, said a relentless focus on safety was deeply ingrained in the Shell culture, and its standards are widely recognized across the sector. These documents are evidence of that culture, said Howe, speaking of the surveys and safety report. A company which is continually looking to strengthen safety performance by proactively seeking out problems or concerns that can then be addressed. ___ The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Photograph: Shell Bonga offshore oil vessel is seen off the coast of the Niger Delta in Nigeria, Monday, Dec. 26, 2011. (AP Photo/Sunday Alamba) Microsoft Corp. has pulled back on data center projects around the world, suggesting the company is taking a harder look at its plans to build the server farms powering artificial intelligence and the cloud. The software company has recently halted talks for, or delayed development of, sites in Indonesia, the UK, Australia, Illinois, North Dakota and Wisconsin, according to people familiar with the situation. Microsoft is widely seen as a leader in commercializing AI services, largely thanks to its close partnership with OpenAI. Investors closely track Microsofts spending plans to get a sense of long-term customer demand for cloud and AI services. Its hard to know how much of the companys data center pullback reflects expectations of diminished demand versus temporary construction challenges, such as shortages of power and building materials. Some investors have interpreted signs of retrenchment as an indication that projected purchases of AI services dont justify Microsofts massive outlays on server farms. Those concerns have weighed on global tech stocks in recent weeks, particularly chipmakers like Nvidia Corp. which suck up a significant share of data center budgets. Microsoft shares fell 2.3% to $373.32 at 10:34 a.m. in New York amid a broader market selloff, and were down about 9% for the year as of the Wednesday close. Microsoft acknowledged making changes to its data center plans but declined to discuss most of the projects. We plan our data center capacity needs years in advance to ensure we have sufficient infrastructure in the right places, a spokesperson said. As AI demand continues to grow, and our data center presence continues to expand, the changes we have made demonstrates the flexibility of our strategy. Microsoft recently withdrew from negotiations to lease space between London and Cambridge in the UK at a site being marketed for its ability to host advanced Nvidia chips, according to people familiar with the talks, who requested anonymity to discuss a private matter. The company has also halted negotiations for data center space at a site near Chicago, according to a person familiar with the talks. Microsoft, which has leased excess cloud-computing capacity from CoreWeave Inc., recently backed away from a proposal to obtain more, CoreWeave Chief Executive Officer Michael Intrator said in an interview. Intrator didnt say how many projects were affected or where theyre located but added that CoreWeave has found another buyer for the capacity. CoreWeave shares fell more than 8%. In some cases, Microsoft is delaying construction. For example, it has paused work on parts of a data center campus it owns about an hour outside of Jakarta, according to people familiar with the situation. Microsoft also has put on hold some planned expansion at a site in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, part of a complex visited by then-President Joe Biden, according to another person. During the first six months developing the Wisconsin project, Microsoft spent $262 million on construction, according to documents seen by Bloomberg. Almost $40 million of that went to concrete alone. In other cases, Microsoft has slow-walked negotiations. On a January earnings call, Applied Digital Corp. Chief Executive Officer Wes Cummins told investors that it had been a long process to secure a tenant for a server farm complex in North Dakota. The data center company had originally been in discussions with Microsoft, but talks dragged on so long that an exclusivity clause lapsed, said people familiar with the matter. Applied Digital has since entered into advanced discussions with other players to lease the site. The company secured extra funding from Macquarie Asset Management to continue developing the project and expects it to come online within the next year. Applied Digital shares sank about 8%. Over the past year, weve learned that the hyperscaler contract process is extremely thorough, Cummins said during the January earnings call. The company declined to comment. In London, Microsoft was negotiating to lease space at Ada Infrastructures 210-megawatt Docklands data center but has held off on committing to the project, according to people familiar with the matter. The developer is currently showing the site, located a few kilometers down the river from the Canary Wharf financial center, to other potential tenants, the people said. Parent company Ares Management Corp. declined to comment. The Microsoft spokesperson said the company remains committed to its $3.3 billion project in Wisconsin, which is expected to come online next year, and said preliminary work on the expansion has commenced. A company spokesperson in Jakarta said Microsofts planned Indonesia Central cloud region is on track to go live in the second quarter of 2025, without addressing the pause on portions of the project. Microsoft says it remains committed to spending about $80 billion building out data centers in its fiscal year that ends in June. The company has previously said that the following fiscal year will see a slower rate of new infrastructure spending, and the focus will shift from new construction to fitting out existing facilities with servers and other equipment. Analysts have stepped up their scrutiny of data center spending since Chinese upstart DeepSeek announced in January that it had created a competitive AI service using fewer resources than leading US companies. In the long run, new engineering techniques could mean AI will require less computing power than previously expected. Fueling the skepticism, TD Cowen analysts wrote last week that Microsoft has abandoned new data center projects in the US and Europe that would have amounted to a capacity of about 2 gigawatts of electricity, saying the moves likely represented data center oversupply relative to its current demand forecast. The analysts said the pullback also reflected Microsofts choice to forgo some new business from OpenAI, the leading AI startup now valued at $300 billion. OpenAI earlier this year unveiled a joint venture with SoftBank Group Corp. and Oracle Corp. that plans to invest at least $100 billion and as much as $500 billion in AI infrastructure. The same analysts previously said OpenAI is likely shifting some computing from Microsoft to Oracle under that partnership. In late March, Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. Chairman Joe Tsai warned of a potential bubble forming in data center construction, arguing that the pace of the buildout may outstrip initial demand for AI services. CoreWeaves Intrator said that the pullback in data center spending is more specific to Microsoft than the larger industry. Its pretty localized, and their relationship with OpenAI has just changed, he said. So it stands to reason that there would be some noise. Ed Socia, a director at the industry intelligence firm datacenterHawk, said cloud companies are tweaking their server farm plans in an effort to cut costs and prioritize projects that can come online quicker. You may have initially thought one data center project would be the fastest speed to market, but then you realize that the labor, supply chain and power delivery wasnt as quick as you thought, he said. Then you would have to shift in the short term to focus on other markets. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Key Insurance, a Kansas-based insurer specializing in non-standard auto, was placed into liquidation this week after a court ruled the company insolvent. The Shawnee County District Court ordered the liquidation of Key on March 31 after reviewing significant evidence that Keys liabilities exceed its admitted assets. The court found that Keys consistent underwriting losses, existing claims and negative policyholders surplus demonstrate a substantially deteriorating financial position equating to insolvency. The court appointed Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt as liquidator, and Schmidt appointed Jodi Adolf and Bruce Baty as the special deputy receivers to carry out the day-to-day responsibilities of the liquidator with respect to the liquidation of Key. The Department will be working closely with the deputy liquidator and the guaranty associations in the states Key Insurance Company did business to pay claims and process unearned premium refunds, Schmidt said in a statement. Overland Park-based Key is licensed in six states: Alabama, Arizona, Kansas, Missouri, Nevada and Oklahoma. The company had approximately 30,000 remaining policies in force nationwide, with approximately 13,000 of those in Kansas. The company reported -$16.3 million in net income in 2024, according to an NAIC filing. The company had assets of -$57.9 million at end of year 2024, compared to liabilities of $65.3 million. Key is in such condition that further transaction of business would be hazardous, financially or otherwise, to its policyholders, creditors, and others, the Shawnee County District Court order said. The Kansas Department of Insurance (KDI) is encouraging Key customers to view the frequently asked questions page about the liquidation. All policies in effect at the time of the liquidation order shall be cancelled the sooner of: (1) 30 days from the date of entry of the liquidation order, (2) the expiration of the policy coverage, or (3) the date when the customer has replaced the insurance coverage with equivalent insurance in another insurer or otherwise terminated the policy. All policies will be cancelled on or before April 30. Key customers who need to file a claim can do so on the companys website. Drivers who have been in an accident with a Key insured should reach out to their insurance company to submit a claim. Certain Key policy claims may qualify for coverage from a state insurance guaranty association in the state of the policyholders residence, KDI said on the Key FAQ page. State insurance guaranty associations provide protection to policyholders and claimants in the event of a member insurers liquidation. Nevada customers can submit an inquiry with the states Department of Motor Vehicles with concerns related to Keys insolvency. Nevada customers unable to find replacement coverage can contact the Nevada Division of Insurance for assistance by calling toll-free: (888) 872-3234 or via email: insinfo@doi.nv.gov Texas, the nations top trading state, is facing a weakening economic outlook as the Trump administrations sweeping trade and immigration policies fuel worries among businesses about higher costs, reduced demand and labor shortages, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. Even before President Donald Trump sent shockwaves around the world on Wednesday with the steepest US tariffs in a century, confidence among Texas business leaders was faltering. The Dallas Feds March survey of manufacturers and service providers showed a surge of uncertainty, with many firms citing trade duties as a major concern. As the nations leading trading state, Texas is highly exposed to tariffs, Dallas Fed researchers Jesus Canas and Diego Morales-Burnett said in a report, which was based on surveys conducted before Trumps announcement this week. Uncertainty about trade policy and the prospect of higher tariffs has partly led to dimming company outlooks. Texas, a reliably Republican state that has enjoyed robust economic expansion in recent years, accounts for 16% of total US trade, more than any other state, the Dallas Fed said. The reliance on global commerce has made it particularly vulnerable to rising tariffs on imports from major partners including China and Canada, as well as Mexico, which is the states main destination for exports. The potential slowdown in Texas would be an abrupt change for an economy that has boomed in recent years as companies including Tesla Inc., Chevron Corp. and Charles Schwab Corp. have moved their headquarters to the state. Others such as Goldman Sachs Group Inc. are expanding their footprint in Texas, which prides itself on light business regulation and the lack of a state income tax. The states gross domestic product of $2.6 trillion would make it the worlds eighth-largest economy if it was its own country. The Dallas Fed estimates that imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods and an additional levy of more than 10% on Chinese imports would cut 1.5 percentage points from economic growth in Texas, and potentially eliminate about 100,000 jobs. The estimated reduction in output is consistent with a recent analysis by Perryman Group, the authors said. Manufacturing-heavy regions and areas near the US-Mexico border would bear the brunt of the losses. Trump said Wednesday he will apply at least a 10% tariff on all exporters to the US, with even higher duties on some 60 nations, to counter large trade imbalances with the US. That includes some of the countrys biggest trading partners, such as China which now faces a tariff of well above 50% on many goods as well as the European Union, Japan and Vietnam. For now, the new measures dont include Canada and Mexico, which are embroiled in a separate dispute with the US. In Texas, US immigration policy is also clouding the economic outlook. The Dallas Fed noted that roughly 10% of the immigrants who arrived in the US during the surge of crossings at the southern border between 2021 and 2024 settled in Texas, and many employers now rely on those workers to fill jobs. Going forward, Texas businesses may have to balance the potential positive effects of anticipated deregulation and tax cuts with the possible negative impact of more restrictive trade and immigration policy, the Dallas Fed said in the report. Photo: The potential slowdown in Texas would be an abrupt change for an economy that has boomed in recent years. Photographer: Shelby Tauber/Bloomberg Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Topics Texas A report published this week by a Washington, D.C.-based think tank ranks Louisiana as the worst state for social mobility, and links the states lawsuit abuse climate as a factor for why many residents never get ahead. Archbridge Institute published the report,Building On Momentum: Louisianas Path To Mobility, with an index that ranks where states perform at enabling citizens to achieve social mobility. Archbirdge defines social mobility as opportunity to better oneself and those around them in the pursuit of achievement, aspirations, purpose, and skills development. The institute analyzed each state using four broad areas it says contribute to social mobility: Entrepreneurship and economic growth Institutions and the rule of law Education and skills development Social capital States in the southeast and south central regions dominate the bottom of the rankings; Texas is No. 45, followed by No. 46 Georgia, No. 47 Alabama, No. 48 Arkansas, No. 49 Mississippi and No. 50 Louisiana. Utah is ranked No. 1 for social mobility, joined at the top by No. 2 Minnesota, No. 3 Montana, No. 4 Delaware and No. 5 Vermont. Louisianas position at the bottom of the index is driven by the states poor tort system, the report says. Louisiana ranked last in trial judges impartiality, and in the bottom two for trial judges competence and the quality of the appellate review process, resulting in a total cost per capita is over $4,000, or 3% of the states GDP, according to Archbridges analysis. In Louisiana, this is largely driven by automotive and general/commercial litigation, the report says. This can help explain the seemingly ever-growing cost of home and auto insurance in the state. Archbridge recommends that Louisiana advance more tort reforms, like the state has done to reform tax, education and regulation. Louisiana lawmakers last year already passed a package of auto and property insurance reforms that aim to cut down on social verdicts and bring more insurers to the state. The report urges Louisiana to go farther by reforming the states pure comparative negligence law, which allows for someone to potentially recover damages even when they were largely at fault. Archbridge cites an example of a plaintiff who sues for $1 million, but is found to be 99% at fault. In that case, they could still receive 1% of the settlement, or $10,000. This incentivizes frivolous lawsuits that drive up expenses, benefiting personal injury lawyers, the report says. Most other states do not allow plaintiffs to receive anything if they are deemed to be more than 50% or 51% at fault. Archbridge recommends Louisiana put a cap on contingency attorney fees, which the institute says could help mitigate the number of cases brought forward. The full report can be found here. Photo: The Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge. Topics Louisiana The South Carolina Department of Insurance named Andy Noga, formerly CEO and general counsel of GuideOne Insurance Group, as director of captives, underscoring the states commitment to fostering captive insurance companies, the DOI said Wednesday. We focused on identifying a new director with exceptional experience and ability who will continue to grow our captives market with excellence. Our search has paid off, SCDOI Director Michael Wise said. I am excited to join the SCDOI and to contribute to its stellar reputation as a home for quality captive insurers, Noga said in the announcement. I look forward to meeting and working with everyone associated with the captive programs. Noga has 30 years of experience as well as a masters degree in law from the University of Connecticut. But his time at Iowa-based GuideOne, a specialty insurer for schools and churches, was not without controversy. In 2022, a former senior vice president at the company, Mark Groenheide, accused Noga of sexual discrimination due to Groenheides sexual orientation. He said in a federal EEOC complaint that Noga called him derogatory names and caused his termination from the insurer, according to news reports. A second vice president make similar accusations in 2022, the USA Herald reported. GuideOne said at the time that Groenheides discrimination claims were unfounded and that Groenheide had been investigated for other reasons, including failing to secure reinsurance on some accounts. Noga was later asked to step down as acting CEO at GuideOne but remained general counsel until late last year. The SCDOI said in a statement that the complaints were unsubstantiated, and no civil rights agency had found that Noga engaged in discrimination. The department has no concerns, said Diane Cooper, the DOIs deputy director of consumer and external affairs said. Noga does have some experience with captives, Cooper noted. While serving as general counsel, Andy worked with a well-known captive manager to arrange for a reinsurance captive, drawing up necessary contracts and participating in appropriate analysis, she said. He also has done feasibility studies for the prospective formation of captives. Topics South Carolina A Florida House of Representatives panel went straight to the source of a consultants report that has caused widespread concern among lawmakers about insurance company profit-shifting. But the hour-long web interview with Arizona-based consultant Jan Moenck shed only limited light on the appropriateness of Florida property insurance holding companies paying large fees to their managing general agents while some carriers struggled to stay solvent. The testimony from Moenck came after the House Commerce Committees Subcommittee on Insurance and Banking voted 17-1 in favor of House Bill 881, which would require more transparency, oversight and limits on MGA fees, and would potentially lower the bar for plaintiffs to show bad faith by insurers. The vote on the bill happened despite one lawmaker asking if the panel wasnt jumping the gun. Do you think that it would be wiser to wait before coming up with this, since we are in the process of investigating all this? asked Rep. Marie Woodson, D-Pembroke Pines. Rep. Philip Griffitts HB 881 would not dictate fees paid to MGAs but would require that the payments be fair and reasonable for each service being provided. To determine that, OIR would need to consider the actual cost of services provided by affiliate firms; the financial condition of the insurer and its level of debt; and if the fees are in the insurers best interest. If the total dollar amount charged to the insurer was greater than the total cost to provide services for either year, the insurer must explain how it determined the fee was fair and reasonable, the bill reads. Insurers would have to submit regular reports to the OIR with the needed information. See the latest version of the bill here The bills sponsor, Rep. Philip Griffitts, R-Panama City, said that the measure will probably be modified when it moves to the next House committee meeting. The concerns about MGAs spread quickly last month when the Tampa Bay Times reported that a consultant hired by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation had produced a report in 2022 that was never released to lawmakers. The report, by Moenck and Risk and Regulatory Consulting, noted in its summary that multiple insurers had paid millions in fees to their MGAs. The payments came at a time that several companies were asking for rate increases and were facing financial shortfalls. The subcommittee held one hearing March 14, grilling the current and the former state insurance commissioner about the report. Thursday, the panel heard only from Moenck. Takeaways from her testimony include: The report was substantially complete, Moenck said, despite it being marked as a draft. Florida insurance advocates and regulators have said the report was never finished. Moenck explained that her firm, RRC, had finished the work OIR tasked it to do, but it is the consultancys practice to label reports as drafts until the client reviews. In this case, OIR never responded to RRCs requests for final review of the research. Floridas current and former commissioners said last month that the report had slipped through the cracks in the midst of Floridas simmering insurance litigation crisis in 2022. The OIR had initially asked the consultant to examine the affiliate fee arrangements for 16 Florida property insurers that were at the highest risk of insolvency. Later, the review was expanded to all property insurance carriers in the state, except a few that had been recently acquired, said Moenck, who has consulted for OIR for more than 20 years. The consultant did not make a judgment on whether the MGAs fees contributed to higher premiums or to the demise of carriers in the years 2017 to 2019. Moenck noted the review classed insurers affiliate fees into three categories: fair and reasonable, when the fees were less than 110% of the insurance carriers combined net income; more information needed, when fees were between 110% and 115% of the insurers net income; and not fair and reasonable, when fees were 115% or greater. Moenck noted that the categories were based on internal considerations. The names of the Florida carriers that fell into each bucket were not released in the consultants report summary, and the full report has not been made public due to insurers trade secret information in it. The subcommittee had asked how RRC might act on data that raise concerns. More context would be needed to respond to that question, Moenck said in the hearing. Florida law does not define what fair and reasonable fees should be for MGAs and other affiliate companies, and leaves it to OIR to draft rules on that. Moenck said at least 25 other states follow a similar practice and do not prescribe the scope of fees in statute. The reports summary noted that while insurers had paid billions of dollars to MGAs, millions came back to some of the carriers as capital investment. Moenck said it may not be possible to know exactly where the funds ultimately ended up, without a forensic accountant examining each companys books. Moenck also said that it was not in the scope of her review to decide if OIR had failed to enforce Florida law on affiliate fees. When Rep. Yvonne Hinson asked if she had found insurance company practices that were in violation of state regulations, Moenck said, no. One key question was not asked Thursday: How Florida insurers fee arrangements with MGA compare to those in other states, or to an industry average or to years past. In answer to another question from a subcommittee member, Moenck did say that trade secrets are not unique to Florida, and many other states allow insurers to keep proprietary information from the public, but not from regulators. The hearing is available on The Florida Channels website. The committee plans further hearings and the panels chairman said House Speaker Danny Perez had asked lawmakers to expand its investigation, including hiring consultants to examine the affiliate pay arrangement. That would last longer than the legislative session and would likely mean reports would be completed later this year. Top photo: Consultant Moenck speaking at the subcommittee hearing Thursday. (The Florida Channel) Related: Reinsurance Renewals for April, Mid-Year Are Buyer-Friendly Topics Florida Insurance Wholesale Gov. Gavin Newsom said hes seeking exemptions for California-made products from retaliatory tariffs and wants to open talks with global allies over new trade relationships, casting the state as a buffer against the fallout of Donald Trumps sweeping tariff plan. In a post on X on Friday, Newsom said that he has directed his administration to reassure allies that California remains a stable trading partner, even as Trump pushes for a 10% across-the-board tariff on imports and steeper tariffs for some nations. Donald Trumps tariffs do not represent all Americans, Newsom said. TO OUR TRADING PARTNERS AROUND THE GLOBE California is here and ready to talk. TO OUR TRADING PARTNERS AROUND THE GLOBE California is here and ready to talk. We will not sit idly by during Trumps tariff war. We make up 14% of the US GDP. Were the 5th largest economy in the world. Were not scared to use our market power to fight back against the pic.twitter.com/yTfbcWW1sO Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) April 4, 2025 When contacted for comment, Newsoms office declined to provide specifics on outreach to countries or policies his administration is pursuing. They also didnt provide additional details on how California would navigate the constitutional limits on states negotiating their own trade terms. While Newsom cannot enter binding international agreements with foreign nations, the governor can pursue informal partnerships and export promotion efforts such as state-led trade missions. California accounts for roughly 14% of the nations gross domestic product and ranks as the fifth-largest economy in the world. Newsom said that economic weight paired with the states population of 40 million gives California leverage on the global stage. But it also makes California more vulnerable to global trade disruptions, particularly as major US trading partners begin to retaliate. On Friday, China announced it would impose a 34% tariff on all US imports starting April 10, mirroring the rate of Trumps proposed reciprocal tariffs. A day earlier, Canada said it would tax US auto imports in response to Trumps move to slap new tariffs on foreign-made cars. The state is a key player in agriculture and US manufacturing, including semiconductors, computer equipment and vehicles sectors that are being targeted in the trade dispute. California exported $24 billion in agricultural goods in 2022, nearly 13% of total US farm exports. Almonds topped the list at $4.7 billion, followed by dairy products, pistachios and wine. Top buyers include Canada, the European Union, China and Hong Kong. In the X post, Newsom linked to a Fox News report citing a senior administration official who said the state is concerned about rising rebuilding costs after Januarys wildfires around Los Angeles and the potential for trade disruptions in the California-Baja border region. Much of the manufacturing in that area depends on cross-border supply chains, where components often travel back and forth between factories several times before becoming finished products. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Topics California Tipperary-based cheesemaker Cashel Blue has no plans to walk away from the US market, despite the implementation of tariffs on its products, but the next few years will be more focused on managing its reputation for when times get better. On Wednesday night, US president Donald Trump implemented a raft of tariffs on most countries, with EU exports to the US being hit with a 20% tariff. Irish speciality food producers and Irish alcohol producers are two sectors which are significantly exposed to these tariffs, as the US represents a substantial market for their products. Speaking to the Irish Examiner, Sarah Furno, joint-owner and general manager of Tipperary-based cheese producer Cashel Blue, said the company had worked in the US speciality cheese sector for 30 years and its Cashel and Crozier Blue travels from our cheese rooms here at our home and farm in Tipperary to cheese counters in Boston, the Midwest and as far afield as the Pacific coast in small quantities. Ms Furno said they knew the tariffs were inevitable, given Mr Trumps rhetoric during his previous stint as president, but this time is different. "Our sales in the US haven't been going very well in the last few years, so we don't have too far to fall at the moment, if that makes sense, she said. But that does not mean that we're going to walk away. We've been working there for over 30 years and I have a massive amount of respect for many people who work in the industry, in the trading of cheese over there and in production. Ms Furno said while there would be a smaller amount of its cheese sold in the US over the coming years, we also want to manage our reputation in the US, which is very good, so that when times are better we can come back in. "So you may see us judging more cheese competitions in the US, things like that. So investing in our profile, in the US, but a smaller volume of stock. We've been around a while so we're in a position that we can do that. She added the company won't compromise quality to absorb the tariff costs as US customers would lose their respect for our cheeses if we were to do so. Being recognised by one of the worlds most prestigious literary prizes is a big deal for any publisher and something that can take years to achieve, for even the longest-established presses. So for Irish publisher Bullaun Press, which started life on the Aran Islands and published its first book only three years ago, to be named on the longlist for the International Booker Prize is an astonishing feat. Theres a Monster Behind the Door by Gaelle Belem, translated from French by Karen Fleetwood and Laetitia Saint-Loubert, is one of 13 titles chosen for the list. It is only the fourth book to be published by Bullaun, the first press in Ireland to be dedicated to the art of translation. For founder Bridget Farrell, the nod from the prize committee came as a shock, especially as the book was accepted for consideration relatively late, due to the introduction of a secondary method of submission. It came as a big surprise because were such a small press, were not even eligible to submit. Last year, the rule was you had to have two books published by different authors within a 12-month period, and we didnt quite fit that rule. But then they introduced the call-in system, where you could say, weve got this really good book, and we think you might like it. Then they tell you if they want to call it in. So it was very much towards the end of the process when they decided they even wanted to look at it. It is also the first time an Irish publisher has had a book longlisted for either the International Booker Prize or the Booker Prize since the submission rules were changed in 2018. Farrell, who now runs the press from her base in Sligo, is characteristically modest about the achievement, ascribing it to pure luck. However, its clear that she has excellent instincts Theres a Monster Behind the Door has also been shortlisted for the highly-regarded Republic of Consciousness Prize, which recognises small presses. In addition, Bullauns third publication, Forgottenness by Tanja Maljartschuk, translated from the Ukrainian by Zenia Tompkinshas, was recently shortlisted for the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Literature Prize and the Tadeusz Bradecki Prize, a new award for imaginative works that blend fiction and non-fiction. Theres a Monster Behind the Door is set in the French territory of Reunion in the 1980s, which is reckoning with the legacy of postcolonialism, and centres on a young girl seeking refuge from her violent and chaotic home in books and the realisation that she can write her own life story. Bullaun published their first book, I Am Lewy, a translation by Micheal O hAodha of Eoghan O Tuairiscs 1977 book An Lomnochtan, in April 2022, and afterwards put out a call for new projects. Laetitia Saint-Loubert and Karen Fleetwood got in touch with their pitch for a translation of Theres a Monster Behind the Door. They put together a proposal with a little sample, and they sent it to me. I speak French, and when I read the book, I said yes, lets do it and bought the rights from Gallimard and commissioned the translators, says Farrell. The English translation of author Gaelle Belems novel Theres a Monster Behind the Door has been longlisted for the International Booker Prize in 2025. Picture: Francesca Mantovani As any translator will testify, pitching a book can often be a thankless task, involving a significant amount of work in putting together a sample, without any guarantee of a commission at the end of it. It means that such projects are often a labour of love, as was the case in this instance. The translators were bowled over by the book when it came out in 2020; Saint-Loubert was in Ireland at the time doing postdoctoral research on translation in Caribbean literature. Laetitia and Karen put so much into it. It was risky its not the easiest book to translate for quite a few reasons and the fact they were doing the translation together would have put some publishers off. But I had a feeling that it was going to work. I liked the idea of giving it a go, doing something different, and supporting the translators. Were very happy with how it turned out, says Farrell. For her, the process is very much a collaborative one and the translator is a key element. The translators are such a big part of it all, theyre involved as much as possible. Their names are on the cover, and they get oversight of any changes that are made. Farrell also acknowledges the outside support that has helped Bullaun bring such work to a wider audience. Arts Council financial backing This is also a good news story for the Arts Council, because theyve backed us financially from the beginning. This book had other sponsors, including the French government, but in general, we wouldnt be going if the Arts Council hadnt been funding us over here. The timing of the International Booker Prize news was opportune, coming when the initial print run for the book had just sold out. The challenge is to get more books off the press to capitalise on the interest generated by the announcement. Ive had to reorder two print runs since it was announced Waterstones, for example, in the UK, took in a big order, which is fantastic, says Farrell. While interest in fiction in translation is growing, it can still be a tough sell. Farrell says prize listings can help get books into the hands of readers. What does she think could be done to encourage more people to read fiction in translation? Its a bigger question about encouraging people to read more widely. Its about putting books in front of people. If you walk into a bookshop and you only see the usual suspects, like the top 20 books that youd expect, you gravitate towards that. So I think booksellers have a big part to play in showing you new and different things. At a time when social media means more people occupy echo chambers and information silos, the benefits of broadening our horizons through reading fiction in translation have never been more necessary. Its one of the ways of discovering the world, it can be very insular, and very comforting, maybe, just to read the same type of story with the same type of characters, youre not opening up to everything else thats out there, says Farrell. In another example of perfect timing, Bullauns next release is Gaelle Belems second book, The Rarest Fruit, which will be published next month and is also translated by Fleetwood and Saint-Loubert. Before that, fingers will be crossed that Theres a Monster Behind the Door will make the International Booker Prize shortlist, which could make for a double celebration as the main awards ceremony will also take place in May. While there are many challenges involved in publishing in general, and especially in publishing fiction in translation, Farrells passion for what she does continues to inspire her. I just love it. I moved back to Ireland in 2015, I had been living in France and Belgium, and it really struck me how little literature was being published here in translation. I realised that everything I was reading was being published in the UK. Even in Scotland and Wales, they had small presses that were doing literature and translation I couldnt understand why we werent. I wanted to put Ireland on the map for publishing translation. This is a good start. Mr Burton In 1942, your prospects as a working-class teenage boy growing up in the Welsh industrial city of Port Talbot were pretty grim: you were destined for the mines or donning a uniform to fight the Nazis. The young Richie Jenkins (Harry Lawtey) got lucky: abandoned by his alcoholic father, raised by his sister Cis (Aimee-Ffion Edwards), Richie bonds with his English teacher Mr Burton (12A) over a love of Shakespeare, and glimpses an opportunity to escape, via a scholarship to Oxford, the grinding hardship his family has endured for generations. But even the supportive Mr Burton (Toby Jones) baulks when Richie confides his dream to become an actor: Richie is simply the wrong class, with a working-mans diction, and a name that reeks of functional poverty. Written by Tom Bullough and Josh Hyams, and directed by Marc Evans, Mr Burton is a stirring account of how the gauche Richie Jenkins became Richard Burton, the most promising British actor of his generation and, eventually, Hollywood royalty. The story beats are as expected as the clumsy, mumbling Richie graduates from muddy rugby fields to local am-dram and gradually develops that wonderfully distinctive voice and stage presence, but the films real strength is in the power of the performances. Lawtey is excellent as the crude young man dazzled by Shakespearean rhythms (his mimicking of Burtons resonant tones is impressive), while Toby Jones is superb as the creatively frustrated Svengali who is subjected to a whispering campaign that suggests his interest in the younger man is not entirely pure. Meanwhile, Lesley Manville provides fine support as Mr Burtons landlady and conscience, as does Aimee-Ffion Edwards as the older sister who was effectively the young Richies mother too. (theatrical release) Four Mothers Fionnula Flanagan steals the show in Four Mothers with a series of robotic-sounding zingers Four Mothers (15A) stars James McArdle as Edward, a middle-aged gay man living at home and caring for his aging mother, Alma (Fionnula Flanagan), who has recently had a stroke and can only communicate, courtesy of a program on her iPad, in a metallic voice. With his debut novel being published in the States, Edward needs to focus on himself for once but when his friends take off to Spain for a Pride weekend, swiftly followed by his therapist Dermot (Rory ONeill), Edward finds himself caring for their mothers too (Stella McCusker, Dearbhla Molloy and Paddy Glynn). Darren Thorntons remake of Mid-August Lunch (2008) is a charming affair that somehow manages to be a gentle comedy thats laugh-out-loud funny. The story charts Edwards emotional and creative frustrations, but it weaves them into a host of sub-plots as the older women come to terms (some more successfully than others) with the loss of their independence and agency. McArdle is a poignantly comic presence at the heart of the action as Edwards dutiful self-sacrifice starts to fray at the edges, and theres excellent support from Rory ONeill as the self-involved therapist, Dearbhla Molloy as the deliciously cynical Jean, and especially Fionnula Flanagan as the mute Alma, who steals the show with a series of robotic-sounding zingers. (theatrical release) A Minecraft Movie Despite the best efforts of an endlessly game cast, the plot of A Minecraft Movie feels cobbled together from far more enthralling epic adventures A Minecraft Movie (PG) stars Jack Black as the genius designer Steve, whose vivid imagination has created a cubed paradise in the Overworld dimension. But when the evil Malgosha (Rachel House), the gold-digging ruler of Nether, steals the Orb of Dominance, Steve finds himself joining forces with a group of dimension-busting humans Garrett (Jason Momoa), Natalie (Emma Myers), Henry (Sebastian Hansen) and Dawn (Danielle Brooks) to save the Overworld from an invading horde of piglins, zombies and skeleton assassins. A blend of live action and animation, A Minecraft Movie promises Jumanji-like thrills and spills as our heroes navigate a computer game world, but despite the best efforts of an endlessly game cast (Jack Black at his most bug-eyed manic; Jason Momoa heroically spoofing his macho persona) the plot feels cobbled together from far more enthralling epic adventures. (theatrical release) I love the bones of him is how Charlotte Hanley sums up her relationship with son Daithi but what she does not love is the system which is meant to support him. Daithi, 6, is in junior infants and has Down syndrome. Hes the light of my life, his mother said. I would not change my child ever, nothing. But I would change so much about the support systems. Hes been let down. He has so much potential and has so much to give. She is speaking out to highlight gaps in therapy services for their Limerick family and to call for improved government supports. They initially received help from a HSE service in Charleville but were switched to one of the then-new Childrens Disability Network Teams (CDNT). We would have had a great service up until he was about a year old, the mother of four said. We were getting a monthly home visit from a speech therapist, a physiotherapist and a nurse. It was fantastic." However the move to a CDNT was "a disaster" from the start, she feels. He had an initial assessment and a therapist visited his pre-school and school once each. But for speech thats his entire allocation in the last 3.5 years. Hes never had a one-to-one therapy session with a speech therapist, she said. The family pay instead for private speech therapy. This is subsidised by Down Syndrome Limerick coming in at 35 per session. She also fundraises and volunteers with them. If the government is not providing the service, you would wonder why they are not paying (charities) to provide the service. That would be a solution in one way, she said. For now however, she said: It feels like its parents responsibility and it feels like there is no place to go to say I need help." She praised his school for their support. Daithis classmates have been learning the sign language, Lamh, which he uses. Ms Hanley is keen to stress her frustrations are about national funding, not CDNT staff. In Cork many families whose children have autism face similar obstacles according to Karen O Mahony, CEO with the Rainbow Club Cork. The days of us getting individual therapies are probably well gone for the foreseeable future, she said. Unless you are going private, I cant imagine that its going to be something that is going to be brought back in anytime soon if we dont have enough therapists. She is aware Cork teams are struggling massively to recruit. However she welcomed Government initiatives providing extra training places. Data provided to the Labour Party on CDNT teams in Cork city shows shortages of social workers among other gaps. For new families coming in, it is very scary and I think the biggest issue is there is very little information for them, Ms O Mahony said. In the meantime, she urged parents to take up offers of courses from the HSE if they can. Her family received invaluable information from similar courses, she said. Rebecca O Riordan, co-founder of FUSS Ireland, called for better understanding from politicians. There are over 900 children a month pouring into CDNTs nationally, she said. Every SLT [speech and language therapist] OT [occupational therapist] and psychologist is expected to be an expert in every presentation of every disability. They are expected to manage caseloads for which absolutely no scoping data has been gathered. The HSE has commissioned a review of the CDNT system nationally by the National Disability Authority. It is expected to report by the end of the year. The HSE Midwest health region said there are five CDNTs across Limerick. They had 3,492 children allocated to them with 905 on a waiting list in January. During that month alone 1,440 children or parents had therapy or other appointments. The teams are funded for the equivalent of 118.39 staff but are short by over 12 roles. HSE South West head of disability services Angela O Neill said there are significant shortages of healthcare staff globally which is affecting the HSE. The West Cork team covering around the Beara Peninsula is funded for 27.40 full-time roles but has 22.66. The South Kerry CDNT is funded for the equivalent of 31.26 staff but has 26.26 and West Kerry has 15.45 when they could have 19.25. One Dublin team has 1,561 children allocated to it. In the last year it gave individual input to 558 children and young people and group input for 152 as well as other services. Despite this, it still has 1,000 children waiting for a family service plan information, released to Sinn Fein by the disability service for Dublin South, Kildare and West Wicklow Community Healthcare shows. Data released under the Freedom of Information Act shows pressure on services across Tipperary and Waterford. There are 12 CDNTs now under the HSE Dublin and South East health region. A spokesman added funding covers equivalent of 225.72 full-time roles but up to this week only 141.32 were filled. A six-year-old child said I cant take it anymore shortly before he died in Cork University Hospital less than 24 hours after he was admitted with abdominal pain. Logan Murphys parents watched him deteriorate while repeatedly asking for help. He had suffered a rare viral infection which was attacking his heart, but was initially misdiagnosed as having suspected appendicitis. He prayed please make me better and please protect my family in the hours before his death on August 13, 2024, in CUH. I could see my son deteriorating before my eyes, his mother, Lei Murphy, told Cork Coroners Court on Thursday. However, she and her husband Patrick felt staff at CUH did little to help their son who was crying in pain and told them he felt like he could not breathe with chest pain. Logan Murphy's parents, Patrick and Lei Murphy, at the inquest into his death in CUH, during which Lei asked: 'Why did a healthy, young boy die after less than 24 hours in the hospitals care?' Despite multiple requests to see a doctor, no hospital staff were seemingly paying proper attention to her sons case, Ms Murphy said. She then saw him lying face down on the bed and screamed: Hes dead. Medics tried for one hour to resuscitate the child, but Logan, from Macroom, Co Cork, was later pronounced dead. I always tried to keep my son safe as a mother, Ms Murphy said. Why did a doctor not come when I called? Why did they not listen to a mothers instinct? Why did a healthy, young boy die after less than 24 hours in the hospitals care? Her son had come to her room complaining of tummy pain before vomiting after 1am on August 12, 2024. His GP referred him as an emergency to CUH later that day. He waited five hours at CUH before seeing a doctor at 11pm that night. At 8am, he was seen by a consultant surgeon who ordered an ultrasound that was performed after 9am. However, the child died before 3pm that very afternoon. Pathologist's evidence Pathologist Margot Bolster told Cork Coroners Court that the cause was sudden cardiac death due to viral myocarditis inflammation of the heart muscle due to a virus. When she investigated the heart under a microscope, she found inflamed tissue and some dead heart tissue. However, it took this level of inspection to find the cause of death as no cause was immediately obvious, Dr Bolster said. She added that myocarditis can be very difficult to diagnose as it has a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. Esther Early, barrister for the family, said that Logan had symptoms of myocarditis including chest pain, elevated heart rate, and fatigue. However, this had not been investigated or diagnosed at CUH. Appendicitis was initially investigated instead because Logan had tummy pain and vomiting. 'Shocking' speed and impact of myocarditis Dr Finn Coulter was on call as the emergency medical consultant that night in the emergency department. Although he did not see Logan, after reviewing the notes and speaking to the medics who did see Logan, he said that his presentation would not suggest viral myocarditis. His heart sounded normal when checked in the emergency department, with no murmur, normal sound, and rhythm. The speed of the onset of the viral myocarditis and the extent of its damage was shocking, Dr Coulter said. However, that was sometimes seen with this incredibly rare disease, he said. If a viral infection had been diagnosed, treatment would have been similar to what he had been given with paracetamol, ibuprofen, anti-nausea medication, and IV fluids, Dr Coulter said. Condition affects 15 people per million Ahmed Haidaran, a consultant general surgeon in CUH, said myocarditis was so rare it affected just 15 people per 1m. He said that he was deeply saddened and shocked at the childs death. When he saw Logan at 8am on the morning of his death, the child was able to give him his own medical history very competently. Logan said pain in his abdomen was at a scale of nine out of 10. Mr Haidaran ordered an ultrasound to help diagnose any surgical causes of his pain, such as appendicitis or a twisted bowel, although a viral infection which would generally be viewed as less acute was also raised as a possibility. The ultrasound was performed at 9.45am, but Mr Haidaran who had requested it as an emergency was not sent the report until 2pm. The results were inconclusive, so he ordered a CT scan. Although a pediatric review of the child had been recommended that morning, it never took place. Barrister Richard Keane, for the family, urged the coroner for a verdict of medical misadventure coupled with a narrative verdict indicating the need for an urgent review in the hospital regarding policy to recognise and act on parental concerns. Coroner's verdict Coroner Philip Comyn said that he did not feel the verdict of medical misadventure was possible unless there was a positive action which led to someones unintended death. In the event of inaction despite that verdict being given for inaction in the case of Aoife Johnston, who died of sepsis in Limerick he did not feel inaction could constitute medical misadventure. Logan had died of natural causes, he said. He extended his sympathy to Logans family on their pain and suffering in what was a difficult and tragic case. The Taoiseach has raised concern over Hungarys intent to withdraw from the International Criminal Court. Hungarys prime minister said the ICC, based in The Hague, Netherlands, was a political court rather than an impartial body. He made the remarks as Israels prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Hungary, where he was not arrested under a warrant which had been previously issued by the ICC. Hungary, as a current member of the ICC, would be required to arrest Mr Netanyahu under the terms of the warrant which found there is reason to believe they bear criminal responsibility for crimes perpetrated in the war in Gaza, including the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare, and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution and other inhumane acts. The ICC does not have a mechanism to enforce this obligation on Hungary. The charges are denied by the Israeli officials. Viktor Orban has been accused of acting in ways that are antagonistic to the EU and has faced criticism for crack downs on civil society and human rights groups. Asked about the development, Taoiseach Micheal Martin said: I am concerned about trends within Hungary and there are procedures there in terms of dealing with member states who we believe have either transgressed the law or who are not really behaving in the full spirit of EU unity, or indeed adherence to EU treaties. Mr Martin said Ireland fully supports the ICC and had provided significant, additional funding to the ICC, adding: International rule of law is extremely important, and Ireland will continue to adhere to it. He was speaking during a joint press conference with Irelands EU commissioner Michael McGrath, who holds responsibility for rule of law. Mr Martin added: Theres a step-by-step approach there, I know commissioner McGrath has responsibilities in the area rule of law, and Im very conscious of the citizens of Hungary, many of whom eagerly want to obviously remain within the European Union, want to be part of the European Union. Im always very conscious of that in terms of my engagement with our EU member states. But it is a concern, weve fully supported the ICC. Weve provided significant funding, additional funding above any per capita contribution to the ICC. Mr McGrath said he had visited Hungary last week, adding that the commission has well documented concerns for the rule of law there. I had direct engagement with a range of civil society organisations and media bodies during my visit there, and I am concerned at much of what I heard. I think there is a narrowing of the safe space for civil society organisations to operate within, and theres also a real challenge to having a free and independent, pluralist media within the country, and that has a direct impact on the operation of the democratic institutions, holding people to account. And thats why the EU has had to, regrettably, use the tools at its disposal, and that has included withholding about 18bn funding that should be made available to the people of Hungary who strongly support EU membership. Mr McGrath said he regrets Hungarys intent to withdraw from the ICC. We need countries to support the system of international justice, and the ICC is at the heart of that. In February, US president Donald Trump issued sanctions against the court for its investigations into Israels conduct of the war in Gaza. Mr McGrath said: I visited them in The Hague back in January. Theyre in a very challenging period at the moment, as you know, for different reasons, but unfortunately, this is another retrograde step from Hungarian authorities, and lets see what happens over the period ahead. Mr Martin and Tanaiste Simon Harris have both previously said that Ireland would arrest Mr Netanyahu under the terms of the warrant, should he enter its territory. In a statement on Thursday evening, Mr Harris expressed deep regret over Hungarys decision to withdraw from the ICC. It is particularly disappointing that an EU member state would take such a step. The EU is founded on fundamental values which all member states are obligated to uphold and defend. This includes support for the application of international law. The ICC is the cornerstone of the international system of criminal justice and plays a vital role in ending impunity. Along with our EU partners, we have consistently called on all States to respect its independence and impartiality. Ireland will continue to work with our international partners, including within the EU, to support the ICC in fulfilling its mandate. There will be no package of one-off measures to fight the impacts of a US-EU trade war, the public expenditure minister has warned. Speaking as he entered a meeting of the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF) at Government Buildings on Friday, Jack Chambers said that this year's Budget would not see the kind of cost-of-living packages seen in recent years. Ireland falls under the sweeping 20% tariff imposed on most EU exports to the US which was announced by US president Donald Trump on Wednesday and will come into effect in the coming days. Mr Chambers said that the Government's plan was to be "sustainable" and protect the country in the medium term. "What we're trying to do when you read into our fiscal plan is to make sure we can make decisions that are sustainable, that can be continued into the long term. "And that's what we do in the context of Budget 2026, in terms of social protection and other areas of intervention that will have to be targeted and focused in particular areas of priority, but we're not going to repeat the one-off type of packages we saw in recent years." Mr Chambers said that Ireland wants to see the issue moved to "a space of negotiation" and warned that additional retaliatory measures could make the situation worse. Speaking as he entered the forum, Taoiseach Micheal Martin said that the EU "did not want any tariffs" and would work to find a "sensible landing zone" but needed to ensure the response did not "invite more damage". Mr Martin said there is a "difficulty" between the US and EU in that the Trump administration has a "antipathy" towards the EU. US President Donald Trump speaks during an event to announce new tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House, Washington DC (Mark Schiefelbein/AP photo) "There is an issue there, without doubt, within the US administration. There is an antipathy that's not disguised towards the European Union, misplaced, in my view, because the European Union as a bloc, the trading relationship between it and the US is the biggest in the world. "It has helped create prosperity. Many of the big US pharma and technology companies have done well out of the European markets. That seems to be forgotten by the US administration." He added: "A number of countries, including ourselves, have made the point that we need to do this in a way that doesn't invite more damage in an area where we have a surplus. "The European Union's position is very straightforward. We don't believe in tariffs. We didn't invite these tariffs. If there are issues that the US has in respect of political sectors or more generally, Europe is ready to engage. "I mean, the US will criticise European Union regulation, for example, and the technology sector as one issue of concern. It will criticise barriers, for example, US chickens getting into European markets, or US beef. So you have to say, ok, let's engage in these questions." Mr Martin said that it is too early to say whether the impact of the trade war will see programmes for government commitments delayed. He said the era of free trade was "coming to an end" and that "protectionism is back". This, he said, means that Ireland needs to "pivot" towards a more European outlook and that the EU needs to become more competitive. This was not, however, a case of abandoning Ireland's multinational sector, with Mr Martin saying that it's "not either or". For Ireland, this will mean building infrastructure more quickly. "The biggest challenge we have is getting infrastructure built more quickly. We have too many hold-ups, and that is something that we've got to move with greater agility." Urging both the EU and US to resolve its dispute over tariffs, Mr Martin also said it was important that the European bloc adopts a strategic approach to the issue of retaliatory tariffs on products imported from the US. He said this was to avoid further tariff hikes by the US administration on certain sectors where Ireland has a strong presence in the US market, such as spirits. Weve engaged in significant advocacy in respect of making sure that the response is strategic, Mr Martin said outside Government Buildings in the Irish capital. The impact of Donald Trumps 'Liberation Day' tariffs announcement will be felt immediately in some areas but the knock-on impact on our jobs and industries will be deep and wide. Whilst the effect of tariffs will impact on exports more than imports, tariffs are a zero sum game that is, there are no winners. This is due to the fact that tariffs will be responded to by the EU in kind. Its likely the EU will now impose tariffs on imports from the US, leading to a direct increase in costs. Even without the imposition of tariffs on imports, this measure could still have negative effects for Irish consumers. This is due to costs that affect companies operating in Ireland increasing. For example, pharma companies are likely to pass on their increased costs to Irish consumers. These increased costs for goods inflation can have further implications for ordinary people in the form of higher interest rates and other effects longer term. The largest import category from the US by monetary value last year in Ireland was other transport equipment, the vast majority of which is aircraft. Overall, this category accounted for 30% of all our imports unsurprising, given Irelands concentration of aircraft leasing firms, as well as Ryanair, which uses Boeing planes and has ordered 300 new aircraft from the US manufacturer. This could lead to an increase in the cost of flying for both holidays and business travel. Pharma is Ireland's most exposed area Whilst pharmaceuticals have initially been excluded from the tariffs, the fear is that the hit on these may be more specific and severe. The issue here is that this is our most exposed area Ireland exports up to 58bn in pharmaceuticals and chemicals to the US annually and, overall, some 32% of the country's total goods exports go to the US market. The government fears the 20% imposition of tariffs (which is the expected rate) will potentially cut the exports to the US of pharma products by 50%. The total value of Irelands exports during 2024 stood at 223.8bn. This was buoyed by a very strong performance in the pharmaceutical and medical sector which alone accounted for 99.9bn of which almost 44.4bn went to the US. Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, as well as Eli Lilly, all have significant operations here in Ireland and their primary export market is the US. Companies like Kerry Group may not be as badly affected as expected despite having about 7bn in US sales in 2024. This is because it has a policy of producing locally that should protect against possible tariffs according to chief executive Edmond Scanlon. Stock markets react Shares of companies linked to sectors that will be hardest hit by the new round of levies were sharply lower this week. The likes of Nike, Gap Inc and Lululemon all fell at least 7%. They rely on goods and factories from Vietnam. Apple, whose supply chain is heavily dependent on China, declined 7.1%. Chipmakers such as Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices were down, as were multinationals Caterpillar and Boeing. In commodities, oil dropped, while copper, aluminium, and zinc all slumped as metals joined a rush from risk on fears that the sweeping new tariffs will end up crushing demand for industrial commodities. Gold rose after it was one of the few commodities exempted from the tariffs. Irish jobs at risk In terms of the cost to Irish jobs, there are around 50,000 people in Ireland working in pharma and the uncertainty and increased costs created by tariffs will very likely cause jobs to be cut and lower bonuses. This may mean greater fear of redundancy, causing some employees to look at roles in other industries, in turn leading to lower pay. Given the high salaries and spending power of many of these employees, this could have a significant knock-on effect on the Irish economy. Additionally, many of the big pharma and tech companies provide lucrative share options for staff, but dropping share prices and smaller bonuses overall will reduce the value of these. US and Chinese military officials have met for their first working-level talks since president Donald Trump took office for the second time. The two sides shared their respective concerns over military safety on the seas. The US Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement that the talks, held on Wednesday and Thursday in the eastern Chinese city of Shanghai, were focused on decreasing the incidences of unsafe and unprofessional actions by Chinas naval and air forces. The Chinese defence ministry pointed out that US military ships and aircraft have been conducting reconnaissance, surveys and high-intensity drills in the sea and air spaces around China, which are prone to cause misunderstandings and miscalculations and jeopardise Chinas sovereignty and military security. US secretary of defence Pete Hegseth, left, shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the prime ministers office in Tokyo (Stanislav Kogiku via AP) China told the US that it would continue to respond to all dangerous, provocative actions and resolutely safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, the ministry statement said. The talks were held in the same week Beijing conducted large-scale drills in the waters and airspace around the island of Taiwan. The meeting also came shortly after US defence secretary Pete Hegseth told his Japanese counterpart that Japan is our indispensable partner in deterring Communist Chinese military aggression. Ties between Beijing and Washington have been strained in the past several years over issues such as trade, cybersecurity, Taiwan and the South China Sea. Mr Trump speaks to reporters while in flight on board Air Force One (Pool via AP) Under Mr Trump, a trade war has worsened as his administration imposed tariffs and China announced retaliatory measures. To push back at Chinas aggression in the Indo-Pacific, the US has stepped up its presence in the region, sailing through the Taiwan Strait and conducting drills in the disputed South China Sea. The US opposes any forced takeover of Taiwan, which Beijing claims to be part of Chinese territory and vows to take by force if necessary. But both governments are also seeking to keep the lines of communication open, including through the semi-annual talks of the working group. The Chinese defence ministry said the two sides conducted candid and constructive exchanges on the security situation in maritime and aerial domains this time in Shanghai and that they discussed measures to improve maritime military security between the two countries. Ugandas president Yoweri Museveni is expected to meet South Sudanese officials on the second day of his trip to the capital, Juba, amid UN concerns over a renewed civil war after the main opposition leader was put under house arrest. Mr Museveni, who is among the guarantors of a 2018 peace agreement that ended a five-year civil war, held closed-door discussions with president Salva Kiir on Thursday. Lebanons new central bank governor has vowed that the institution will fight money laundering and the financing of terrorism and will work independently from political intervention. Karim Souaid, who spoke ater officially taking office in Beirut, added that he will work on restructuring the banking sector, public debt and returning money to depositors. Lebanons economy has witnessed its worst crisis in its modern history since 2019 and the state must implement reforms demanded by the international community. Such reforms are needed to unlock international aid, and on top of that, Israels 14-month war with Hezbollah that caused what the World Bank estimates was $11bn (9.9bn) in damages and economic losses. Lebanons crisis is rooted in decades of corruption by the countrys political and financial leaders that drained state resources and eventually led to a run on the banks in 2019, after which people have lost access to their deposits. Mr Souaid has vowed to get the economy back on track (AP) The situation has since been made worse with Covid-19, the massive Beirut port blast in August 2020 and the Israel-Hezbollah war. Since the historic meltdown began Lebanon has been running on a cash economy and in October, the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an international anti-money laundering watchdog, placed Lebanon on its grey list. We will work on implementing international laws on top of them combating money laundering and supporting terrorism, Mr Souaid said. The former asset manager added that banks in Lebanon should recapitalise by pumping new money and those that cannot and do not want to can merge with other lenders. He said that the priority will be to return deposits starting with people who have small accounts. He said the return of deposits should be the responsibility of the banks, central bank and the state. Mr Souaid said the central bank will study all economic recovery plans put forward by previous governments to help the small nation get out of the crisis. Wassim Mansouri, who had been acting central bank governor since July 2023, said the central banks reserves stood at 10.7bn at the end of March. Mr Souaid succeeds Riad Salameh, the embattled former governor of 30 years whose term ended with several international corruption cases lodged against him and for embezzlement and other financial crimes. Salameh was appointed in 1993, when Lebanon was scrambling to bounce back after a 15-year civil war. A Russian missile strike on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih has killed at least 12 people and injured more than 50, Ukrainian officials said. The strike came as US and European leaders pressed Russia to accept a ceasefire in the conflict. Those killed in the strike in the city in the Dnipropetrovsk region the home town of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy included three children in what regional leader Serhii Lysak described as a fight against civilians. It followed a drone attack late Thursday on Kharkiv, Ukraines second largest city, that killed five civilians. Firefighters put out a blaze following Russias drone attack on Kharkiv (Yevhen Titov/AP) Emergency crews carried black body bags from a burning apartment building as onlookers wept and hugged in the dark. Some of the 32 wounded, bloodied and in shock, limped out into the street or were carried on stretchers as flames shot from the windows of their homes. Now, I think it is obvious who wants peace and who wants war, Ukrainian foreign minister Andrii Sybiha said at a Nato meeting in Brussels, referring to the Kharkiv strike. We must get Russia serious about peace. We must pressure Russia into peace. Russia has effectively rejected a US proposal for a full and immediate 30-day halt in the fighting, and the UK and French foreign ministers on Friday accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of dragging his feet in ceasefire talks to halt Russias all-out invasion of Ukraine. Our judgment is that Putin continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet, Foreign Secretary David Lammy told reporters at Nato headquarters, standing alongside French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot in a symbolic show of unity. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Putin continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet (Geert Vanden Wijngaert/AP) US secretary of state Marco Rubio said that Russias real intentions in the negotiations will become clear within weeks. We will know from their answers very soon whether they are serious about proceeding with real peace or whether its a delay tactic, Mr Rubio told reporters. Now weve reached the stage where we need to make progress. A Kremlin envoy who visited Washington this week for talks with Trump administration officials said on Friday that further meetings would be needed to resolve outstanding issues. Kirill Dmitriev told Russian reporters that the dialogue will take some time, but its proceeding positively and constructively. He criticised what he called a well-co-ordinated media campaign and attempts by various politicians to spoil Russia-US relations, distort what Russia says, and cast Russia and its leaders in a negative way. Mr Dmitriev, the head of Russias sovereign wealth fund, was sanctioned by the Biden administration after Moscow launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24 2022. The US had to temporarily lift the restrictions to allow him to travel to Washington this week. Civilian areas in three other Ukrainian regions were also hit in Russian attacks overnight, officials said. US secretary of state Marco Rubio said Russias real intentions in the negotiations will become clear within weeks (Jacquelyn Martin, Pool/AP) The Ukrainian air force said that Russia fired 78 strike and decoy drones. Russias defence ministry said that its air defences destroyed 107 Ukrainian drones. We see you, Vladimir Putin. We know what you are doing, Mr Lammy said. Russian forces are preparing to launch a new military offensive in the coming weeks to maximise pressure on Ukraine, and strengthen the Kremlins negotiating position in the ceasefire talks, according to Ukrainian government and western military analysts. The planned multi-pronged ground offensive along the 620-mile front line comes as muddy fields dry out, which will allow tanks, armoured vehicles and other heavy equipment to roll into key positions across the countryside. The UK and France are helping to lead a multinational effort known as the coalition of the willing to set up a force that might police any future peace agreement in Ukraine. A senior Ukrainian official said earlier this week that between 10 and 12 countries have said they are ready to join the coalition. Mr Barrot said that Ukraine had accepted ceasefire terms three weeks ago, and that Russia now owes an answer to the United States. French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot addresses the media (Geert Vanden Wijngaert/AP) US President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with Mr Putin and Mr Zelenskyy, after he promised last year to bring the war to a swift conclusion. Russia has been flip-flopping, continuing its strikes on energy infrastructure, continuing its war crimes, Mr Barrot said. It has to be yes. It has to be no. It has to be a quick answer. He said that Russia shows no intention of halting its military campaign, noting that Mr Putin on Monday ordered a call-up intended to draft 160,000 conscripts for a one-year tour of compulsory military service. The two foreign ministers pledged to continue helping to build up Ukraines armed forces the countrys best security guarantee since the US took any prospect of Nato membership off the table. Moscows measured approach to the ceasefire negotiations has not surprised western observers, because its army has momentum on the battlefield. A US intelligence community annual threat assessment, published last month, noted that for Russia, positive battlefield trends allow for some strategic patience. Russia in the past year has seized the upper hand in Ukraine and is on a path to accrue greater leverage to press Kyiv and its western backers to negotiate an end to the war that grants Moscow concessions it seeks, the report said. The toll from last weeks earthquake in Myanmar exceeds 3,000, as reported by the countrys authorities. Aid organizations have cautioned that severe heat and heavy rainfall could lead to disease outbreaks among survivors who are currently living outdoors, complicating rescue operations that are already hindered by ongoing civil conflict. The 7.7-magnitude earthquake on Friday, one of the most powerful in Myanmar in a century, struck an area with 28 million residents, causing buildings to collapse, communities to be devastated, and leaving many without food, water, or shelter. The ruling junta reported that the death count has reached 3,085, with 4,715 individuals injured and 341 still unaccounted for. The remnants of a hotel in Sagaing. Cholera is a significant concern for us, stated Elena Vuolo, deputy head of the WHOs Myanmar office, referencing a recent outbreak in Mandalay. The situation is exacerbated by damage to approximately half of the healthcare facilities in the affected regions, including hospitals that were destroyed in Mandalay and Naypyitaw, she noted. Due to fear of returning home, many people are camping outdoors in temperatures soaring to 38C, and numerous hospitals are establishing temporary facilities. Ms. Vuolo further mentioned that prolonged crises in Myanmar could lead to illnesses such as skin disease, malaria, and dengue. A collapsed bridge over a river in Sagaing. Conditions could worsen for the massive relief efforts, as weather officials have warned of unseasonal rain from Sunday until April 11, which could impact the areas hardest hit by the earthquake. Ive heard that rain is expected within the next day or two, said Titon Mitra, the UN Development Programmes representative in Myanmar, during his visit to Sagaing. If it occurs, we now have numerous people in temporary shelters and makeshift camps on the streets, which will pose serious problems, he added, expressing the UNs worries about potential outbreaks of waterborne diseases. The extreme weather will compound the difficulties faced by aid and rescue organizations, which have urged access to all affected regions despite the ongoing civil war. The United Nations Secretary-General has called for a temporary ceasefire following the earthquake, which should lead swiftly to negotiations regarding the civil war. The cessation of fighting must lead quickly to meaningful political dialogue and the release of political prisoners, emphasized Antonio Guterres. He also urged for an increase in aid before the onset of the monsoon season, mentioning that UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher and special envoy Julie Bishop will be visiting Myanmar in the coming days. People sifting through the debris of a house in Mandalay. In spite of the widespread destruction, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has departed the disaster-stricken nation to attend a regional summit in Bangkok, Thailand, as per state television reports. This marks a rare foreign trip for a general viewed as a pariah by numerous nations and currently under Western sanctions and an investigation by the International Criminal Court. Since seizing power in a 2021 coup that overthrew the democratically elected government led by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, the military has struggled to govern Myanmar. The generals have faced international isolation since the coup, and the nations economy and essential services, particularly healthcare, have crumbled. Yesterday, state-run MRTV announced that a unilateral government ceasefire would be enacted for 20 days to facilitate relief efforts following the earthquake, but cautioned that authorities would respond accordingly should rebel forces initiate attacks. This announcement followed a major rebel alliances declaration of a truce on Tuesday to support humanitarian efforts. Ongoing searches in the rubble of a skyscraper under construction in Thailand. Nearly a week after the earthquake, rescue efforts in neighboring Thailand persist as teams sift through the debris left by the collapse of a skyscraper still under construction in Bangkok. Rescue workers are utilizing mechanical diggers and bulldozers to clear away 100 tons of concrete in hopes of finding any survivors. Fifteen individuals perished in the collapse, with 72 still missing. The total death toll in Thailand has reached 22. Four Killed, Many Injured in Russian Attacks on Kharkiv Ukrainian authorities reported that at least two individuals lost their lives and dozens sustained injuries during Russian drone assaults on the eastern city of Kharkiv. Both Russia and Ukraine have intensified aerial bombardments, despite US President Donald Trump urging them to reach a ceasefire agreement after more than three years of conflict. The strikes targeted residential and office buildings in Kharkiv, igniting multiple fires and injuring 35 people, including a child, according to Ukraines state emergency service via Telegram. Russian drones struck one of Kharkivs districts, leading to strikes on residential buildings and an administrative building, resulting in four fires, the emergency service reported. The attacks coincided with a visit from Russias chief economic negotiator to the US for discussions aimed at improving bilateral relations. Latest updates on Ukraine Mr. Trump is advocating for improved relations with Russia, reaching out to President Vladimir Putin and Russian officials in hopes of facilitating a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine war. Last month, the United States indicated that both Ukraine and Russia separately agreed to develop measures for implementing a cessation of strikes on energy infrastructure. Nevertheless, the attacks have persisted, and both parties have lodged complaints with the United States regarding strikes that have impacted their energy facilities. Ukraine has urged the US to enhance sanctions on Russia for violating agreements established during talks in Saudi Arabia last month. President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine accused Russia of deliberately targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure. On the same day, a Russian ballistic missile strike resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals in Mr. Zelenskys native city of Kryvyi Rig. In a separate incident, one person was killed and another injured in a Ukrainian drone strike on Russias Bryansk region, as reported by the local governor. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin previously stated that Russian air defense units had intercepted a drone approaching the capital. Air defense teams from the Defense Ministry thwarted an attack by a drone aimed at Moscow, Mr. Sobyanin wrote on Telegram. Emergency responders are currently addressing the site where debris has fallen. A representative from Rosaviatsiya, the federal transport agency, informed that Moscows Vnukovo, Domodedovo, and Zhukovsky airports had to close temporarily. They were reopened for departing flights several hours later. Hundreds of thousands of Gazans have evacuated Rafah, marking one of the largest mass displacements of the conflict. The mass departure occurred as Israeli forces moved deeper into the citys ruins, aiming to establish a security zone that they plan to control. After announcing their intention to capture extensive areas of Gaza, the military advanced into Rafah, which had served as a sanctuary for those escaping other regions throughout much of the war. The Gaza health ministry reported a minimum of 97 fatalities due to Israeli airstrikes over the last 24 hours, with at least 20 casualties resulting from a morning attack on Shejaia, a suburb of Gaza City. Spokesman Mahmud Bassal mentioned that more than 100 individuals sustained injuries in the attack, and six persons are currently unaccounted for. Among the missing is a pregnant woman who was expecting twins, he stated. The Israeli military asserted that they targeted a Hamas command and control center in the area of Gaza City. This center was utilized by the terrorists to orchestrate and carry out assaults against Israeli civilians and IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) troops, as indicated in their statement. The military could not confirm whether the strike impacted the school. Hamas condemned the assault, accusing the Israeli government of persistently targeting innocent civilians as part of the ongoing genocide in the Gaza Strip. In another incident, at least 31 Palestinians lost their lives in an Israeli attack on a school in Gaza City. Rafah is finished; it is being obliterated, stated a father of seven among the countless individuals who have fled to neighboring Khan Younis. They are demolishing what little is left of houses and property, said the man, who chose to remain anonymous due to safety concerns. The operation to seize Rafah represents a significant escalation in the conflict, which Israel reignited last month after effectively ending a ceasefire that had been in place since January. Residents reported that most of the population complied with Israels evacuation order from Rafah, but a strike on the main road connecting Rafah and Khan Younis hindered most movement between the two areas. Traffic along the western coastal road near Morag was also restricted due to bombardment. Some residents stayed behind because they are unsure of where to go or have become weary of being displaced repeatedly. We fear they might be killed or, at best, detained, expressed Basem, a Rafah resident. Many Gazans are anxious about a potential permanent depopulation. Israel has not clarified its long-term objectives for the security zone it is establishing. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that troops are seizing an area he referred to as the Morag Axis, named after an abandoned former Israeli settlement situated between Rafah and Khan Younis. Gazans who had returned to their devastated homes during the truce have been ordered to evacuate communities on both the northern and southern fringes of the enclave. They worry that Israels aim is to permanently depopulate these regions, leaving hundreds of thousands homeless while the country claims some of Gazas last agricultural land and vital water infrastructure. Since the expiration of the first phase of the ceasefire at the beginning of last month, with no agreement for an extension, Israel has enforced a blockade on all goods destined for the territorys 2.3 million residents, leading to what international organizations have described as a humanitarian catastrophe. Civil defense teams are present at the scene of the school attack in Gaza City. Israels military has announced it is investigating the deaths of 15 Palestinian aid workers whose bodies were discovered in a shallow grave last month near Red Crescent vehicles. Israel has maintained that its primary objective since the wars inception has been the dismantling of Hamas, which has governed Gaza for nearly two decades. However, with no initiatives to establish an alternative governing body, Hamas regained control during the ceasefire. Fighters still hold 59 hostages, both deceased and alive, whom Israel insists must be released for the temporary extension of the truce. Hamas stated it would only release the hostages through an agreement that conclusively ends the conflict. Israeli leaders have expressed encouragement by indications of protests in Gaza against the militant group. Hamas dismissed the demonstrators as collaborators and alleged that Israel orchestrated the actions. The conflict began with a Hamas assault on Israeli communities on October 7, 2023, during which gunmen killed 1,200 individuals and seized over 250 hostages, according to Israeli figures. According to Gaza health authorities, Israels campaign has resulted in more than 50,000 Palestinian deaths. Israeli air strikes in Syria Israeli aircraft conducted two attacks on military targets near the Syrian capital of Damascus, as reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Israeli warplanes executed air strikes on military positions and installations in the vicinity of Al-Kiswah and Al-Muqaylibah, with no casualties reported, according to the monitoring organization. The assaults occurred just hours after similar Israeli strikes on military objectives and a ground incursion resulted in 13 fatalities. Israels Defense Minister, Israel Katz, stated that the army will maintain a presence in buffer zones within Syria. The office of the Pentagon inspector general will examine the use of the commercial messaging app Signal by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to discuss air strikes in Yemen, as outlined in a memo. The administration of US President Donald Trump is embroiled in a controversy following the accidental leak of a group chat involving senior security officials regarding the strikes aimed at Yemens Houthi rebels. The investigation will assess how well Mr. Hegseth and other defense personnel adhered to policies and procedures for utilizing a commercial messaging application for official business, according to a memo from acting inspector general Steven Stebbins. Additionally, they will examine compliance with classification and records retention requirements, the memo stated. Last week, The Atlantic magazine disclosed that its editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, was inadvertently added to a Signal chat in which officials, including Hegseth and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, discussed the air strikes. According to messages published by The Atlantic magazine, the publication initially chose not to reveal the specifics of the discussions but later proceeded to do so after the White House insisted no classified information was disclosed and labeled Mr. Goldberg a liar. The chat encompassed messages wherein Mr. Hegseth indicated the timing of strikes hours prior to their execution, along with details regarding the aircraft and missiles involved. Meanwhile, Mr. Waltz provided real-time intelligence regarding the aftermath of the military action. The White House, along with several officials involved in the chatincluding Mr. Hegsethhas attempted to minimize the significance of the incident, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt informing journalists this week that the case is closed. A US judge mandated last week that the Trump administration preserve all Signal communications from March 11 to 15. These dates span the timeframe when Mr. Waltz established the chataccidentally including Mr. Goldbergand the day of the lethal US strikes targeting the Iran-backed Houthis. The Atlantic reported that Mr. Waltz had set certain Signal messages to disappear after one week and others after four, raising concerns about possible violations of federal record-keeping laws. Mr. Trump has predominantly shifted responsibility onto Mr. Waltz but has also brushed aside calls from Democrats for the resignation of top officials, emphasizing what he claims to be the success of the raids on Yemeni rebels instead. The Houthis began targeting shipping routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden following the onset of the Gaza war in 2023, asserting solidarity with the Palestinians. These Houthi attacks have obstructed vessels from traversing the Suez Canal, a critical passage that usually accommodates about 12% of global shipping traffic, compelling numerous companies to take a costly detour around southern Africa. The United States commenced air strikes in response under the Biden administration, and US forces have continued near-daily assaults on the Houthis since March 15. For weeks, there has been ongoing speculation regarding the fate of pharmaceuticals within Donald Trumps extensive tariff policy overhaul. Surprisingly, drug products were omitted from the 20% taxes set to be enforced on exports from the EU to the US. Tanaiste Simon Harris has indicated that the White House might announce measures affecting drug products separately, potentially within the coming weeks. Some have suggested that major pharmaceutical companies may have influenced Donald Trump, cautioning him about the possible negative impacts of imposing tariffs on drug manufacturers. During a brief interaction with the media last night, Donald Trump hinted that pharmaceutical policies would be forthcoming. He remarked: We are examining pharma as a distinct category and we will be making an announcement in the near future, not too far off. Additionally, other items such as steel and aluminum were also exempt from the 20% tariffs, as they are already subject to additional taxes. Mr. Trump has consistently expressed his desire to see drug manufacturing return to the US from nations like Ireland. There is a perception that Ireland has attracted a significant portion of the US pharmaceutical industry over the past few decades. Nonetheless, there are 1,500 factories in the pharmaceutical sector within the US, compared to just 90 in Ireland. It is quite possible that Mr. Trump will implement non-tariff barriers, such as technical regulations, that could raise the costs of drug imports to deter pharmaceutical companies from expanding their operations overseas. Currently, it remains unclear what specific measures, if any, will be taken against drug companies exporting to the US. Irish pharmaceutical exports to the US total 44 billion, representing a significant segment of the overall exports to the US. Therefore, any decision made by the White House will have considerable implications for Ireland. Read more: Ministers to discuss US tariffs with employers, unions leaders Trump tariffs provoke world condemnation Pharma tariffs could be introduced within weeks Tanaiste The United Nations human rights office has reported that Myanmars military is restricting humanitarian aid in several earthquake-stricken regions. Over 3,000 fatalities have been confirmed following the 7.7-magnitude earthquake, with UN estimates suggesting that as many as three million individuals may have been impacted, many left homeless due to the destruction of their houses. Numerous countries have dispatched aid and rescue teams; however, in some of the most severely affected areas, there is minimal evidence of support from Myanmars ruling military for the survivors. Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, described the humanitarian situation in the earthquake-hit regions as catastrophic, particularly in areas that are beyond the control of the military. Firefighters pose for a photo in front of collapsed buildings of a fire station in Sagaing She noted that at least 14 military attacks have been recorded since the announcement of a temporary ceasefire that took effect on April 2. Protests occurred as the earthquake-affected Myanmar junta leader attended a summit in Bangkok, with demonstrators displaying a banner labeling him a murderer just a week after the massive earthquake that claimed numerous lives. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing engaged in discussions with leaders from Bay of Bengal nations at an upscale hotel in Bangkok today. The invitation extended to him faced backlash, and protesters outside the venue unfurled a banner from a bridge declaring: We do not welcome murderer Min Aung Hlaing. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing arrived in Thailand yesterday According to state media, the current death toll in Myanmar stands at 3,145, with 4,589 injured and 221 missing. In Bangkok, 22 individuals perished, most of whom were crushed during the collapse of a tower block under construction. In Sagaing, the city near the quakes epicenter where approximately 80% of buildings have sustained damage, AFP journalists observed desperate scenes as hundreds of weary, hungry survivors scrambled for essential supplies. Citizen volunteer teams from across Myanmar have converged on Sagaing in trucks loaded with water, oil, rice, and other basic necessities. With countless homes in Sagaing and adjacent Mandalay rendered uninhabitable by the quake, survivors have been sleeping on the streets for a week and desperately require proper shelter. An area in Mandalay, littered with debris, has transformed into a tent city for those displaced from their homes or too fearful to return due to aftershocks. Workers clear the rubble from a collapsed building in Kyaukse Township There are many people in need, shared 30-year-old cab driver Hla Myint Po, currently living in a tent with his family, in an interview with AFP. Sometimes the chaos ensues when donors arrive with supplies, he added. As the crisis unfolds in Myanmar, Min Aung Hlaing dined last night at a gala with fellow BIMSTEC leaders in a luxury hotel in Bangkok. The veteran general, who led the coup ousting Aung San Suu Kyis elected government in 2021, triggering a bloody civil war, faces accusations of war crimes and severe human rights violations. Min Aung Hlaing met earthquake survivors gathered in the compound of a hospital in Naypyidaw last week Min Aung Hlaing is under various global sanctions, and the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has sought an arrest warrant for him over alleged crimes against humanity committed against Rohingya Muslims. Despite the struggles faced by the Myanmar populace in the quakes aftermath, the military conducted air strikes against rebel groups, drawing sharp condemnation from international powers. Yet, the Thai government provided a red-carpet welcome to the junta chief as he arrived for discussions with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and other leaders from Bay of Bengal nations. Deplorable Thailand welcomed junta chief campaign group Myanmars shadow opposition, the National Unity Government (NUG), condemned his attendance at the summit, calling it an affront to justice considering the immense suffering he has caused the people of Myanmar. Allowing the junta leader and his representatives to participate in regional and international forums risks legitimizing an illegal regime, stated the NUG in their announcement. Yadanar Maung from the Justice for Myanmar campaign group criticized Thailand and BIMSTECs hospitality towards him, calling it deplorable. Isolated and sanctioned by numerous Western nations since the coup, the junta has turned to close allies China and Russia for assistance as it navigates a complex, multi-sided civil war. Read more: Who is giving aid to Myanmar after the earthquake? This trip marks Min Aung Hlaings first foreign visit outside China, Russia, or Belarus since he participated in a regional summit in Indonesia in 2021 shortly after the coup. The Bangkok meeting provides the isolated leader with a rare opportunity for face-to-face diplomacy, which he utilized by meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Thailands Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Several key armed factions in the civil war declared a temporary ceasefire following the earthquakeMyanmars most significant in decadesto facilitate aid delivery, with the military agreeing to do the same. However, all factions maintain their right to self-defense, and sporadic fighting has already been reported. The foreign ministry of India stated that the so-called Quad Partners, which include Australia, Japan, and the United States, welcomed recent commitments to temporary, partial ceasefires. According to the Galapagos National Park, at least 170 captive-bred giant tortoises were released onto an island in the Galapagos archipelago in Ecuador last month. The Chelonoidis vicina tortoises were bred and raised in a breeding center located on Isabela Island, the largest island in the archipelago. They were released to help integrate them into the ecosystem in the southern region of the territory. These tortoises, aged between four and five years, were required to reach a weight of 2kg and a size of 30cm before their release, and they underwent quarantine and veterinary assessments. The Galapagos National Park announced in a statement that it will persist in releasing tortoises from breeding centers into natural areas of the archipelago to bolster endangered populations. Thanks to these initiatives, thousands of giant tortoises have successfully returned to their natural habitats. Greenfield, Mass. (Special to Informed Comment; Feature) The Republican Administrations edicts imposed by broligarchs President Trump and Elon Musk are with us for the next two to four years. Who/what will defeat them? Not the inside-the Beltway Democratic politicians. Most are supine and silent, or cautious and cowardly, or helping to advance certain GOP legislation. This crisis prompted me to ask local activists about their personal and political actions that bring hope into the despair of these days and brings light into our national darkness. What are you doing in your personal and political life to make your community kinder, fairer, more just and less militaristic? Susan Triolo from Sunderland, MA : I participate in weekly standouts on Black Lives Matter and Ceasefire in Gaza; participate in creating events, such as Our Project for 2025 on January 18, Envisioning the World We Want and International Womens Day and town meetings with our US representative Jim McGovern; daily I listen to Democracy Now and read progressive blogs to keep myself informed; I participate in demonstrations at our federal politicians offices; and I am a member of activist organizations, including my towns Human Rights Task Force and chair Sunderlands Democratic Town Committee. Susan adds that she enjoys a good dose of social and psychic health: walks, swimming laps, reading, naps, sleeping well and writing cards and letters to people she loves. Peter Kakos from Northampton, MA : for my part, I continue to hold, with others in the Valley, what is now a 400-plus, day-time fast (Leahy fast for Palestine); demonstrate with River Valley for Gaza Healthcare (RVFGH) every Friday at noon on the steps of Northamptons City Hall and speak out at my Church, First Churches Northampton; our RVFGH team has recently demonstrated at every major hospital in the Valley, urging them to become informed of the categorical suffering of the innocent, unfolding upon all Palestinians. Mary McClintock from Conway, MA : We can be lifeboats rowing up to a sinking ship, offering attractive alternatives for people to swim toward. Some of my lifeboat activities: standing in Greenfields Weekly Peace Vigil (11am to noon, Greenfield Common) in my Peace is Cheaper apron; organizing a Cultivate Lesbian Joy group for Franklin County Prides Parade; serving dinner at free community meals; organizing Conways Pre-Town Meeting Dessert Potluck and Discussion with Jimmy Recore. Jimmy says if someone has a different opinion, they arent a bad person, just someone with different life experiences that led them to different conclusions; organizing with others in her town Hands Off! Conway Stands for Democracy, one of hundreds of protests on April 5. Knowing these arent big actions, I remember a story about a woman seeing a sparrow lying on its back, feet in the air. She asked, What are you doing? The sparrow said, The skys gonna fall. The woman asked the tiny bird, Youre going to stop it? The sparrow answered, One does what one can. American Resistance, Digital, ChatGPT, 2025 **** I, then, turned to national movements in cities to activist librarians and women activists to labor unions to broaden the base of advice and example. Abolish Billionaires Campaign from Climate Resistance On Saturday, March 1, Climate Resistance protestors dropped a massive banner Abolish Billionaires from the balcony of the Tesla showroom in Shepherds Bush, London and occupied the showroom. Less that 1 month later on March 29 Tesla Takedown organized protests at 500 Tesla showrooms around the world: the goal being to kill the Tesla brand. Tesla stock is plummeting. Librarians for Public Office Librarians fed up with censorship and defunding are running for office and encouraging others to do so: Why? A capacity for deep listening and discerning eye for truth- translate well for politics stated Ilana Stonebreaker who won the 2018 election for Tippecanoe County Council. Im trained as a librarianBullshit detecting is my job, she added caustically. LA Is Leading the Way : Inauguration Day thousands gathered in East LA to protest the Trump administrations immigration policies and threats of mass deportation, joined by 60 organizations including Black Lives Matter and the Palestinian Youth Movement. They have protested every day since against ICE and in support of the undocumented community since Trumps inauguration. People want an end to deportationthey are not going to take this quietly The sign that spoke to all whose relatives were farmworkers was Dont bite the hand that feeds you. March 8: International Women s Day Rallies to Unite and Resist took place in cities and towns coast to coast to confront the broligarchy that owns Trumpwhich seeks to obliterate [womens] sexual and reproductive health rights. Thousands and thousands expressed We are not backing downwe refuse to go backward. Juliana v. United States Though their 10-year-old constitutional climate lawsuit, Juliana v. United States, filed by 21 youth plaintiffs was ended recently by the US Supreme Court, they achieved victories by inspiring other youth-led climate victories, such Navahine v. Hawaii Department of Transportation. They paved the way for young plaintiffs in their successful environmental lawsuit Held v. State of Montana. Juliana has ignited a movement and created a powerful legal framework for future generations to assert their constitutional rights on the face of the climate crisis. Economic Populism With Trumps tanking approval rating and the fecklessness of the Democratic party, were ripe for a third party to challenge leadership of the Democratic party and replace it with a forceful alternative to Trumpism. In the spirit of Bernie Sanders economic populism, major labor leaders could seize the Democratic Party from its current leadership in order to return it to the working classTwo potential candidates are Shawn Fain (president of United Auto Workers) and Sara Nelson (international president of the Association of Flight Attendants). Resistance is alive and well. Highlights: Gold has been designated as a strategic mineral in the United States by President Trump Previous operators have invested over $20M in the project with over 100,000 metres of historical drilling Project compliments the Mine Centre historical Foley Mine in Northern Ontario where approvals are being sought to re-drill for possible reactivation Project consists of 244 mineral claims across ~2,000 hectares (ha) ~100,000 metres of historical drilling, including over 7,000 metres by Alamos in 2014-2015 0.34Moz in NI 43-101 compliant measured and indicated (M&I) mineral resources and 1.15Moz in inferred mineral resources (all on Quartz Mountain, part of the property, ~45% in oxide and transition ore) (see Table 1 below) Surface managed by United States Forest Service, and mineral rights managed by the United States Bureau of Land Management TORONTO, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Q-Gold Resources Ltd (TSXV: QGR, OTC: QGLDF) (Q-Gold or the Company) is pleased to announce that the Company has entered into a share exchange agreement dated March 31, 2025 (the Agreement) with 0975828 B.C. Ltd. (the Target) and its sole shareholder, Alamos Gold Inc. (Alamos, or the Shareholder), pursuant to which Q-Gold intends to indirectly acquire a later stage mineral exploration project located in south-central Oregon (the Quartz Mountain Project) through the purchase of all of the issued and outstanding shares of the Target from the Shareholder (the Acquisition). The property consists of 244 claims with approximately 2,000 ha, of which Quartz Mountain is on 86 unpatented LODE mining claims covering 704 ha, and Angels Camp is on 158 unpatented LODE mining claims covering 1,248 ha in south-central Oregon (collectively, the Assets). The Targets indirect wholly owned subsidiary, Quartz Mountain Gold Ltd., holds a 50% interest in Angels Camp, together with an option to acquire the remaining 50% interest and a 100% interest in Quartz Mountain, in each case upon completion of (i) permitting and (ii) a feasibility study respecting the Quartz Mountain Project. A map with further details of the Assets is provided below (see Figure 1). The Quartz Mountain Project is an advanced-stage exploration project located in south-central Oregon. Over the years, approximately 100,000 metres of drilling has been conducted, with the majority of work focused on the Crone Hill and Quartz Butte deposits, which host a measured, indicated and inferred mineral resource. Combined with the Angels Camp property (which, for certainty, comprises a portion of the Quartz Mountain Project and the Assets), the project covers a large land package which the Company believes offers significant exploration potential. Table 1: Mineral Resources at Quartz Mountain as reported in Alamos Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources as at December 31, 2024. Gold Mineral Resources Tonnes (000) Grade (g/t Au) oz Au (000) Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources 12,156 0.87 339 Inferred Mineral Resources 39,205 0.91 1,147 Notes to Mineral Reserve and Resource Tables: Alamos Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources as at December 31, 2024 are classified in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining Metallurgy and Petroleums CIM Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves, Definition and Guidelines as per Canadian Securities Administrators NI 43-101 requirements. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Mineral Resources are exclusive of Mineral Reserves. All Measured, Indicated and Inferred open pit Mineral Resources are pit constrained. The resource is based on a gold price of $1400/oz, with cut-off grades of 0.21 g/t Oxide and 0.6 g/t Sulphide and 65-80% metallurgical recovery. Mineral resources for the Quartz Mountain Project are available on the Alamos website: Alamos Gold - Quartz Mountain Project United States (Click Here). Figure 1: Map showing the claims of the Quartz Mountain Project with the Crone Hill and Quartz Butte claims in blue and Angels Camp claims in orange. News from Mine Centre, Ontario Furthermore, the Company is pleased to announce that it has engaged with the Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nation about its planned drilling program at its Mine Centre project in Ontario around the historical Foley Mine. After approval from the First Nation, the Company intends to apply for the permits from the Ontario Ministry of Energy and Mine to drill six diamond drillholes with a total of 850 metres around the previously active Foley Gold Mine. Dr. Andreas Rompel, Q-Golds President and Chief Executive Officer, commented: The Acquisition of the Quartz Mountain Project is expected to significantly increase the project list of Q-Gold with the highly prolific Mine Centre project; we are excited about the new addition and look forward to progressing both the Quartz Mountain Project and Mine Centre with a view on the higher gold price over US$3000, and the metal being designated as a strategic resource. The Acquisition The Target, a company existing pursuant to the laws of the Province of British Columbia, is the sole shareholder of Orsa Ventures Corp., a corporation existing under the laws of the Province of British Columbia, which is the sole shareholder of Quartz Mountain Gold Ltd., a corporation existing under the laws of the state of Nevada that solely owns the right to earn a 100% interest in the Quartz Mountain Project. Pursuant to the Agreement, Q-Gold has agreed to pay or issue (as applicable) to Alamos the following (the Purchase Price): on the closing date of the Acquisition (the Closing Date): US$2,850,000 in cash; and such number of common shares of the Company which represent 9.99% of Q-Golds issued and outstanding common shares immediately prior to the Closing Date, after taking into account any common shares of the Company to be issued pursuant to the concurrent minimum $5,000,000 financing, the terms of which will be finalized in the coming weeks; US$3,150,000 in cash or common shares (at Alamos election) payable on the first anniversary of the Closing Date (the 12-Month Payment); US$2,500,000 in cash or common shares (at Alamos election) payable on the second anniversary of the Closing Date (the 24-Month Payment); US$2,500,000 in cash or common shares (at Alamos election) payable on the third anniversary of the Closing Date (collectively with the 12-Month Payment and the 24-Month Payment, the Anniversary Payments); US$5,000,000 in cash or common shares (at Alamos election) payable on the earlier of: (i) completion of a feasibility study in respect of the Quartz Mountain Project, and (ii) the Company making a decision to commence construction of a mine on the Quartz Mountain Project (the FS Payment); and US$5,000,000 in cash or common shares (at Alamos election) payable when the Quartz Mountain Project has been permitted (collectively with the Anniversary Payments and FS Payment, the Milestone Payments). The Milestone Payments may also be paid in a number of Q-Gold common shares in certain circumstances described in and calculated in accordance with the terms of the Agreement (the Milestone Shares). In the event that the issuance of the Milestone Shares would result in Alamos holding more than 50% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company, then in lieu of issuing Milestone Shares in excess of such threshold, the value of the shares that would have been issued absent the application of such threshold shall be satisfied by the Company causing Quartz Mountain Gold Ltd. to grant a re-purchasable net smelter return royalty (the NSR Royalty) to Alamos in respect of all minerals from the Quartz Mountain Project at a fixed rate of 0.2% of the net smelter return for each US$1,000,000 in value being satisfied by the issuance of such NSR Royalty on the terms described in the Agreement. The Acquisition is an arms length transaction for the purposes of the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV). Q-Gold is not paying any finders fees in connection with the Acquisition. The closing of the Acquisition is subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions precedent, including, inter alia, any requisite approval of the TSXV (which may require the preparation at the Companys expense of certain documents requested by the TSXV), completion of the Offering, the provision of legal opinions concerning certain corporate matters and the title to the Assets, and other closing conditions customarily found in transactions similar to the Acquisition. Target Summary Financial Information As of the date hereof, other than the Quartz Mountain Project, the Target does not hold any other material assets, nor does it have any liabilities, profits, or losses. For clarity, the financial information contained in this paragraph is unaudited. About the Existing Mine Centre Property Q-Gold holds 10,000+ acres of contiguous mining claims, Crown leases, and leasehold patents located within the historic Mine Centre 1890s gold camp, which historically produced 16,025 ounces of gold from the Foley Gold Mine (see:https://www.geologyontario.mndm.gov.on.ca/mndmfiles/mdi/data/records/MDI52C10NE00032.html) and the Golden Star Mine (see: https://www.geologyontario.mndm.gov.on.ca/mndmfiles/mdi/data/records/MDI52C10NE00005.html). The Foley Gold Mine was first developed in the 1890s, with the sinking of the Foley Shaft to the 400 level. At this time 10,500 tons of ore at 14 g/t were mined from stopes at the 100 level with 5,267 oz of gold recovered between 1898 and 1900. Subsequent work between 1923 and 1927 included an estimated $12 M of total development work, including an offset Shaft 400 - 850, winze 400 to 150 and 2.5+ km of drifts on 7 levels. Operations terminated in 1927 due to the onset of the Great Depression (see: https://www.geologyontario.mndm.gov.on.ca/mndmfiles/mdi/data/records/MDI52C10NE00032.html). The Mine Centre property has favourable logistics with immediate access to Highway 11, sitting 250 km northwest of Thunder Bay and 65 km northeast of the U.S. border. It is also proximal to two major gold discoveries 95 km on either side of Mine Centre: Rainy River (New Gold) & Hammond Reef (Agnico Eagle). Other interest areas on the property include the McKenzie Gray Vein System, a gold-silver vein system with 6,594 m of drilling confirming the existence of high-grade quartz veins down to 100 m, as well as the Golden Star, Manhattan, and Fergus vein systems, all high-potential gold vein prospects offering what we believe to be tremendous optionality at Mine Centre. Qualified Persons The scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Jason Arnold, P. Geo., an independent consultant who is a "Qualified Person" as defined in National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. About Q-Gold Resources Ltd. Q-Gold Resources (TSXV: QGR, OTC: QGLDF) is a publicly traded Canadian-based mineral exploration company targeting high-grade gold and silver discoveries in multiple jurisdictions. Q-Gold is currently exploring for gold at the past-producing Foley Gold Mine in Mine Centre, Ontario. For further information, contact: Dr. Andreas Rompel Chief Executive Officer This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Cell: +1 778 987 9114 Cautionary Notes The content and grades of any mineral deposits at the Companys properties are conceptual in nature. There has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource on its properties and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in any target being delineated as a mineral resource. In addition, results at or around, and information applicable to, the Golden Star Mine, Rainy River, or Hammond Reef, or other adjacent properties, are not indications of results that could be obtained at, or information applicable to, any of Q-Golds properties. This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the Companys intention to apply for permits to drill at around, and possibly reactivate, the Foley Gold Mine and the Companys beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future, as well as statements with respect to the Assets, the Companys ability to complete the Acquisition and the concurrent financing and to develop the Assets, the expected timing of completion of the Acquisition, the finalization of the terms of the concurrent financing, the receipt of approval of the TSXV in connection with the concurrent financing and the Acquisition, and other matters related thereto. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: receipt of necessary approvals; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; future mineral prices and market demand; accidents, labour disputes and shortages and other risks of the mining industry. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - ESGold Corp. (CSE: ESAU) (OTCQB: ESAUF) (FSE: Z7D) ("ESGold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the successful completion of a non-brokered private placement (the "Offering"), which was conditionally reserved with the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") and opened and completed concurrently. The Offering consisted of 15,926,933 units (the "Units") at a price of US$0.15 (C$0.215) per Unit, for gross proceeds of US$2,389,040 (C$3,424,291). A Pivotal Step Toward Production The proceeds from this financing will be directed toward hiring contractors and engineering teams to commence construction of the mill circuit at the Company's fully permitted Montauban Project in Quebec. This represents a major milestone, and the final phase of infrastructure development required to bring the project into production. New York-based hedge funds and family offices participated for the majority of the capital raised, demonstrating meaningful institutional interest and support for ESGold's clean production model and exploration potential. "This financing is a very unique capital raise-it signals ESGold's ability to begin assembly of the gold and silver processing circuit at Montauban," said Brad Kitchen, President of ESGold. "With construction now imminent, we are entering the final stages before production. We extend our sincere gratitude to our shareholders and new investors-particularly the New York-based hedge funds and family offices that led the round-for their tremendous confidence in our vision. Together, we are positioning ESGold to become Canada's next mining company." Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional Common Share at a price of US$0.21 (C$0.30) for a period of 24 months from the date of closing. In connection with the financing, the company will pay a cash finder's fee of C$165,628 and issue 770,361 finders' warrants. The finders' warrants will be exercisable into common shares for a period of 24 months at an exercise price of C$0.30 cents per common share. Use of Proceeds Net proceeds will be allocated to: Commencement of mill circuit construction and related engineering work; Final project mobilization for the Montauban Gold-Silver Project; and General working capital requirements. All securities issued in connection with the offering are subject to a restricted hold period of four months and one day from the date of closing of the offering under applicable securities legislation. The Offering is subject to CSE approval, and the Company anticipates that it will close in five (5) business days on April 11, 2025. The subscribers in the offering included insider participation from Brad Kitchen (president and director), Paul Mastantuono (chief executive officer and director) and Anthony Giuliano (chief financial officer). The insiders subscribed for an aggregate of 1,250,000 units. The issuance of Units to the insiders constitutes a related party transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 -- Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions. The company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements, pursuant to subsections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, for the insider participation in the offering, as the value of the units subscribed for does not represent more than 25 per cent of the company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. A Platform for Growth With over 60% of Montauban's infrastructure already in place and the project fully permitted, this financing positions the Company to move decisively into production. In parallel, the Company continues to advance its exploration initiatives, including the ongoing Ambient Noise Tomography (ANT) survey, which aims to define the full scale and depth of the deposit for the first time in its 110-year history. About ESGold Corp. ESGold Corp. (CSE: ESAU) (OTCQB: ESAUF) (FSE: Z7D) is a fully permitted, pre-production resource company at the forefront of clean mining and exploration innovation. With proven expertise in Quebec, the Company is advancing its projects toward production and feasibility while delivering long-term value through sustainable resource recovery and exploration. ESGold's flagship Montauban property, located 80 kilometers west of Quebec City, serves as a model for responsible mining practices, combining near-term production with district-scale discovery potential. For more information, please contact ESGold Corp. at +1-888-370-1059 or visit esgold.com for additional resources, including a French version of this press release, past news releases, a 3D model of the Montauban processing plant, media interviews, and opinion-editorial pieces. Stay connected by following us on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and joining our Telegram channel. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements are based on assumptions and expectations that involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially. Forward-looking information includes statements regarding the expected use of proceeds, the development and construction timelines of the Montauban Project, future production, and anticipated project milestones. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. All forward-looking information contained in this release is qualified by these cautionary statements. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 4, 2025) - Silver47 Exploration Corp. (TSXV: AGA) (OTCQB: AAGAF) ("Silver47" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the completion of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement"), raising gross proceeds from the fourth tranche of $1,800,000 through the issuance of 3,600,000 (the "Units") at a price of $0.50 per Unit. The Company issued an aggregate of (i) 18,538,400 Units and (ii) 929,192 flow-through units of the Company (the "FT Units") at a price of $0.57 each, for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of approximately $9.8 million under the Private Placement. "We are extremely grateful for the strong support from our existing and new shareholders, which allowed us to upsize this private placement from $3 million to $9.8 million" Commented Gary R. Thompson, CEO "This level of support reflects the confidence in our projects and growth potential. With these funds, we are well-positioned to carry out an exciting and productive year of exploration and development at our Red Mountain Project in Alaska." Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (the "Common Share") and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (with each full warrant being a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one Common Share at a price of $0.75 within 36 months following issuance. In connection with the final closing, the Company paid aggregate finders' fees of $51,940 in cash, representing 7% of the aggregate proceeds raised by the finders, and issued 103,880 finders' warrants (the "Finders' Warrants"), representing 7% of the number of securities sold to subscribers introduced to the Company by the finders. Each Finders' Warrant is exercisable for one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.75 for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance. The Company paid aggregate finders fees of $336,234 in cash and issued 669,158 finders' warrants under the Private Placement. All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placement are subject to a restricted hold period of four months and a day from the date of issuance under applicable Canadian securities legislation. The Private Placement remains subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). Corporate Update Concurrent with the completion of the Private Placement, the Company has granted to certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company an aggregate of 2,600,000 stock options (the "Options"). The Options are exercisable for a 10-year period from the date of grant and will vest in two equal installments, 12 and 24 months from the date of grant. Each vested Option will entitle the holder to acquire one Common Share at an exercise of $0.60. The Options are subject to the terms and conditions of the Company's share compensation plan and the policies of the TSXV. Of the Options granted above, 300,000 Options were granted to High Tide Consulting Corp. ("High Tide"), a provider of investor relations services, pursuant to the Contractor's Agreement (as such term is defined below). The Company has engaged the services of High Tide to provide corporate communications, investor relations and strategic marketing services in compliance with the policies of the TSXV and applicable securities laws. High Tide is expected to heighten capital market awareness and understanding of the Company and to assist with managing investor communications and expectations, through various outreach and marketing programs. In connection with the engagement of High Tide, the Company and High Tide has entered into an independent contractor's agreement (the "Contractor's Agreement"). Pursuant to the terms of the Contractor's Agreement, the Company has agreed to pay High Tide a cash fee of C$7,500 plus applicable taxes per month and grant 300,000 Options as indicated above. The Contractor's Agreement is for an initial term of six months and may be terminated by either party on at least 30 days written notice. High Tide is a company based in British Columbia, Canada, and offers a full suite of investor relations and communications services for public and private companies. High Tide is an arm's length party to the Company. High Tide has no present, direct or indirect interest in the Company or its securities, nor any right or present intention to acquire such an interest except as otherwise provided in this release. High Tide and its clients may acquire an interest in the securities of the Company in the future. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the "United States" or to "U.S. persons" (as such terms are defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. About Silver47 Exploration Corp. Silver47 Exploration Corp. is a Canadian-based exploration company that wholly-owns three silver and critical metals (polymetallic) exploration projects in Canada and the US. These projects include the Red Mountain Project in southcentral Alaska, a silver-gold-zinc-copper-lead-antimony-gallium VMS-SEDEX project. The Red Mountain Project hosts an inferred mineral resource estimate of 15.6 million tonnes at 7% ZnEq or 335.7 g/t AgEq, totaling 168.6 million ounces of silver equivalent, as reported in the NI 43-101 Technical Report dated March 2, 2023. The Company also owns the Adams Plateau Project in southern British Columbia, a silver-zinc-copper-gold-lead SEDEX-VMS project, and the Michelle Project in the Yukon Territory, a silver-lead-zinc-gallium-antimony MVT-SEDEX project. For detailed information regarding the resource estimates, assumptions, and technical reports, please refer to the NI 43-101 Technical Report and other filings available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. The Common Shares are traded on the TSXV under the ticker symbol AGA. For more information about the Company, please visit www.silver47.ca and see the Technical Report filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and titled "Technical Report on the Red Mountain VMS Property Bonnifield Mining District, Alaska, USA with an effective date January 12, 2024, and prepared by APEX Geoscience Ltd.". Follow us on social media for the latest updates: No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this release. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This release contains certain "forward looking statements" and certain "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "upon" "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "plans" or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to: ; anticipated use of proceeds from the Private Placement; vesting and exercise of the Options; High Tide's services to be performed pursuant to the Contractor's Agreement; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals; the statements in regards to existing and future products of the Company; and the Company's plans and strategies. Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: ; receipt of required regulatory approvals of the Private Placement; engagement of High Tide on the terms described in the Contractors' Agreement; the use of proceeds not being as anticipated; the vesting and exercise of the Options; the Company's ability to implement its business strategies; risks associated with general economic conditions; adverse industry events; stakeholder engagement; marketing and transportation costs; loss of markets; volatility of commodity prices; inability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favourable terms; industry and government regulation; changes in legislation, income tax and regulatory matters; competition; currency and interest rate fluctuations; and the additional risks identified in the Company's financial statements and the accompanying management's discussion and analysis and other public disclosures recently filed under its issuer profile on SEDAR+ and other reports and filings with the TSXV and applicable Canadian securities regulators. The forward-looking information are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. The foreign ministers of France and Britain on Friday said Russia was still striking Ukraine's energy infrastructure and accused President Vladimir Putin of dragging its heels over US peace efforts. At the same time, Paris said that the military chiefs from the two countries were visiting Kyiv to discuss a possible deployment of troops to secure any ceasefire. "Over the past three weeks, Russia has been flip flopping, continuing its strikes on energy infrastructure, continuing its war crimes," French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot alongside his British counterpart at a NATO meeting. "There will at some point be a need for military capacity or reassurance, whenever peace is reached -- and this is the reason why our army chiefs will be in Kyiv today in order to advance this work," Barrot said. Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of breaking a supposed US-backed deal to stop firing on energy sites, though a formal agreement has not been put in place and what commitments each side has undertaken remain unclear. "Our judgment is that Putin continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet. He could accept a cease fire now, but he continues to bombard Ukraine, its civilian population, its energy supplies," British foreign minister David Lammy said. "We see, Vladimir Putin. We know what you're doing." Both ministers insisted that now was the time to bolster support for Ukraine and step up pressure on Russia to try to force it to negotiate in good faith. "We are pledged to continue to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position, militarily, economically," Lammy said. "And we continue to bear down the sanctions on Russia, so that they are willing to come to this negotiation actually serious about making the peace that we want to see." I hereby initiate contempt proceedings against Robinson, issue an Order in Lieu of an Indictment against Robinson for knowingly and wilfully interfering with the administration of justice with respect to proceedings before the ICTR and/or the Mechanism, ruled Spanish judge Jose Ricardo de Prada Solaesa on February 25, 2025 at the international residual mechanism that took over from the UN tribunals for Rwanda (ICTR) and former Yugoslavia (ICTY). The decision targets American lawyer Peter Robinson for alleged violations of witness protection measures, and for allegations of false statements in files submitted to the so-called International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals. This procedure has its origins in the case of Augustin Ngirabatware, former Rwandan Planning Minister and son-in-law of Felicien Kabuga, alleged financier of the genocide in Rwanda in 1994. Ngirabatware was convicted of genocide by the ICTR and sentenced in December 2014 to 30 years in prison. On June 25, 2021, a Mechanism judge again convicted Ngirabatware for pressuring witnesses in his review trial. Robinson, represented Ngirabatware in these proceedings between August 15, 2015, and December 19, 2017. During his final deliberations, the judge considered, among other things, that the case raised serious concerns regarding repeated professional and ethical misconduct by Robinson while acting as Ngirabatwares lawyer. The Mechanisms Registrar was then ordered to appoint an amicus curiae to investigate whether Robinson had interfered with the administration of justice and should be sanctioned. Kenneth Scott, an American expert in international criminal law and former member of the ICTY prosecutors office, was appointed for this purpose. Contempt, but no harm On April 2, 2024, after considering the observations of the amicus curiae who suggested proceedings against. Robinson, the judge decided not to proceed. The amicus appealed and, on July 17, 2024, the Appeals Chamber ruled in favour. It referred the case back to the trial court for reconsideration. The amicus curiae alleges, in particular, that. Robinson made unauthorized contact with protected prosecution witnesses, disclosed information concerning protective measures, made unauthorized contact with family members of these witnesses, and recorded interviews with protected ICTR defence witnesses without judicial authorization. The amicus curiae says that some of these witnesses wanted to retract their previous statements, in favour of Ngirabatware, as part of the review proceedings. Scott also maintains that statements made byRobinson as Ngirabatwares counsel are clearly false. These statements are contained in a document filed on March 2, 2016 before the Appeals Chamber, according to which he never asked or encouraged any person to contact protected witnesses and that he never asked or instructed anyone to solicit any person to contact the prosecution witnesses on our behalf. Scott adds that Robinson allegedly communicated with Ngirabatware through unauthorized personal mobile devices while he was detained at the UN Detention Facility in Arusha. After examining the evidence produced by the amicus curiae, the judge concluded that Robinson had committed contempt of court which at the very least, reflects a carelessness that rises to the level of reckless indifference to the consequences of his actions. However, the judge acknowledged that these violations were triggered primarily by Robinsons reference to his ability to meet with protected ICTR prosecution witnesses, as authorized by the judges of the Mechanism, that there is no evidence of any harm suffered by the protected witnesses as a result of these disclosures, and that these violations are not among the most serious allegations made by the amicus curiae. Thus, on certain allegations, the judge decided only to issue judicial warnings, reminding the American lawyer of his ethical duties. An unjust and unreasonable decision The case could have ended there, attracting the interest only of those who benefited from this poor theatre forgotten in the Tanzanian savanna costing a lot of money with no audience. But the February 25 decision caused an outcry, not only fromRobinson but also from the Association of Defense Counsel practicing before the International Courts and Tribunals (ADC-ICT) and the International Criminal Court Bar Association (ICCBA), associations of which Robinson is a member. Robinson, who has appealed the decision a procedure that will no doubt further advantageously feed the same actors of the Mechanism thinks these accusations constitute a threat to the profession. I think it is a dangerous precedent for a court to prosecute a defence counsel for a good faith interpretation of a court order, the lawyer told Justice Info. Defence counsel are called upon all the time to interpret court orders when representing their clients and they ought not to have to face criminal charges when the judges disagree with that interpretation. Robinson argues that the single judge made an error based on an incorrect interpretation of the governing law, a patently incorrect conclusion of fact, leading to a decision that was so unfair or unreasonable as to constitute an abuse of discretion. He notes that neither the judge nor the amicus curiae has ever served as defence counsel in any court. He believes that this lack of perspective has led to a process and a decision that fails to appreciate the role and duties of defence counsel and fails to appreciate the dangerous precedent of imprisoning a defence counsel for his interpretation of court orders. According to the amicus curiae, who act as prosecutor in this case, the Appeals Chamber should dismiss his appeal as completely unfounded and failing to demonstrate any reversible error by the Single Judge in exercising his discretionary powers. According to the rules of procedure, the maximum penalty for contempt of court is seven years' imprisonment and a fine of 50,000 euros. In the case of a lawyer, he or she may also be prohibited from representing an accused person before the Mechanism. The lawyers outcry In a press release dated February 27, 2025, the ADC-ICT expressed its concern. The existing confidential disciplinary procedure under the Code of Conduct, in which the ADC-ICT would have played a role, would have allowed for Mr. Robinsons alleged conduct to have been assessed by a panel and appeals board comprised in part of his peers, before any potential criminal charges could have been brought, it says. Insofar as the decisions invoke the Code of Conduct, it continues, it is concerning that the Codes own procedures were not followed, resulting in unequal treatment of Mr. Robinson vis-a-vis similarly situated Counsel facing allegations of the Code. The ICCBA says that possible recourse to criminal proceedings should be reserved for only the most serious and egregious allegations of contempt or obstruction of justice in the context of independent counsel carrying out their mandates before the international courts. In all other circumstances, disciplinary proceedings should be the sole avenue of addressing actions that may amount to professional misconduct, continues its press release dated March 3. The association says that the Mechanisms decision sets a highly problematic precedent and risks chilling independent counsels ability to act with the independence, diligence and courage required of them in the conduct of their mandates. The two associations, which have been granted leave to intervene as amici curiae in the Robinson case, express concern about the inexplicable delay in bringing charges for the alleged conduct, which occurred nearly a decade ago. The decision to bring charges now, as the IRMCTs operations wind down, and with no explanation for this delay, adds to our concerns as to this irregular procedure, it states. Tens of millions of dollars for what? It is not yet known when and where the public hearings in this case will be held. Will it be in Arusha in the courtroom built after the ICTR closed almost ten years ago, which cost several million dollars and has never been used for real? The inexplicable delay denounced by the ICCBA in the Robinson case appears only the latest symptom of an institution long since abandoned to its quiet self-governance, in an attempt to justify unjustifiable costs. The Mechanism's buildings alone cost $8.7 million. Between 2014 and 2023, the annual budget of its Arusha branch averaged around $40 million. Since then, that budget has been around 30 million per year, even if it is difficult to specify exactly within an amount 60 million dollars in 2025 that combines the needs of both the former ICTR and the former ICTY. By way of comparison, the budget of the International Court of Justice in The Hague was 25 million dollars in 2020 and 32 million in 2024, the year in which that court issued 28 orders on cases such as allegations of genocide in Gaza, Myanmar and Ukraine, accusations of mass torture in Syria, the conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and the obligations of states around the world with regard to climate change. Between 2020 and 2022, the Mechanism thought it could justify its existence and cost with the trial of Kabuga, who was miraculously arrested in France. Unfortunately, Kabuga turned out to be too old to be tried. And so with that loss the Mechanism officially lost its last alibi, three decades after the extermination of the Tutsis in Rwanda and the Bosniaks in Srebrenica. Since then, the Arusha officials have been trying to make the most of what they can: the transfer of a suspect from South Africa, which has been completely bogged down for two years; the precarious survival of the convicted and acquitted persons that it sent to Niger despite common sense; procedures for review that are purely formal; the monitoring of so-called protected ICTR witnesses, who are doubtfully in any danger or receiving real protection; and the maintenance of archives. The problem, or the shocking nature of the situation, is not specific to this body. The UN tribunals in Cambodia and Sierra Leone also have residual mechanisms that continue to ensure the comfortable and quiet lifestyle of a few officials with concrete tasks that are opaque and completely derisory from a judicial point of view. This probably explains more than anything else why so much writing and hot air are devoted to the Robinson case. Loved ones of alleged victims of Rodrigo Duterte's "war on drugs" are hoping for "truth and justice" as the former Philippines president faces International Criminal Court charges, their lawyer said on Friday. The reverberations from Duterte's anti-drugs campaign that killed thousands are still being felt today in the poor communities that bore the brunt, Gilbert Andres told AFP in an interview. "They want their voices to be heard," said Andres, who represents victims at the ICC and is likely to play a pivotal role in an eventual trial for Duterte. There is a chance victims would be compensated financially if Duterte were to be convicted for the crime against humanity of murder, "but more importantly, it's really truth and justice," he said. Duterte, 80, faces ICC charges of 43 murders as a crime against humanity, but Gilbert said this number was just "emblematic" and many more victims and families were expected to come forward. While Duterte currently faces just one ICC charge, Gilbert revealed that victims are hoping the prosecutor will add more charges to the accusations. "There were numerous and massive instances of arbitrary detention that occurred side-by-side with the murders of their relatives," said the lawyer. "There are specific instances of arbitrary detention and the victims hope that it will also be included in the document containing charges," he told AFP. - 'Due process' - The lawyer representing Duterte, Nicholas Kaufman, has told AFP in an interview he sees "compelling" reasons for the ICC to throw the case out because it lacks jurisdiction. Duterte removed the Philippines from the ICC in 2019 and his supporters insist the court therefore has no power over the former president and he should be released. But Andres said previous jurisprudence from the ICC showed the court did have the jurisdiction in this case. "I think there's strong case law as well as a statutory basis... for the ICC to still exercise jurisdiction," he said. He said victims' testimony would show the world the ongoing impact of Duterte's campaign. "In fact, our position is that it's not really a war on drugs, it's a war against the poor," he said. "The murdered breadwinners such as the fathers, the brothers, sisters, mothers, actually (this) is still affecting their socio-economic status now." Duterte backers from around Europe have demonstrated frequently in noisy shows of support for the former president. Supporters also keep a constant vigil outside the seaside detention centre in The Hague where Duterte is interned. Andres said it was good they were able to exercise their right to freedom of speech, accusing the man they support of denying human rights to his alleged victims. "Were the right to life and to due process of the victims of the war on drugs respected by Mr. Duterte? The answer is a resounding no." The case comes at a key moment for the ICC, under pressure from all sides. The United States slapped sanctions on the institution after it issued arrest warrants for Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. On Thursday, Hungary announced its withdrawal from the ICC as it welcomed Netanyahu, deriding it as a "political court". But Andres said that the arrest and possible trial of the former president showed the court's importance. "I think it's very important because what it shows is that international criminal justice is not merely theoretical. It actually is useful and it's being applied right now," said the lawyer. "It also shows that powerful people can still be subject to accountability no matter how powerful." Belgium's premier said the country would likely not arrest Benjamin Netanyahu despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against the Israeli prime minister over the Gaza offensive. Following a trip by Netanyahu to Hungary on Thursday in defiance of the warrant, Belgian prime minister Bart De Wever poured cold water on any expectations that other European nations would act differently. "I don't think there is a European country that would arrest Netanyahu if he were on their territory. France, for example, wouldn't do it. I don't think we would either," the Flemish conservative leader said. His comments in an interview Thursday with Flemish public broadcaster VRT referred to Netanyahu's visit to Hungary, which rolled out the red carpet for Netanyahu despite his arrest warrant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Hungary, under its nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, on the same day initiated the procedure to withdraw from the ICC. But De Wever indicated that Belgium would not go so far as to pull out of the ICC, stressing his commitment to multilateralism and an international rules-based order. Quizzed about the possibility of a plane carrying Netanyahu making an emergency landing in Belgium, De Wever first deemed it "highly unlikely", and then said he doubted an arrest would be made in such a scenario. One of Belgium's opposition leaders hit out at the premier's remarks. "When an international arrest warrant is issued, when international justice speaks, Belgium must respond. Unambiguously," said Paul Magnette, president of the French-speaking Belgian Socialist Party, arguing there was a "legal and moral obligation". Belgian human rights group CNCD 11.11.11 slammed De Wever's comments as "unacceptable" and accused him of "undermining" international law. Friday, April 4, 2025 - Detectives from DCI Dandora, in collaboration with their Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau counterparts, have arrested Ben Waimari and Moses Odhiambo alias Pascal, for their involvement in a robbery incident that unfolded on March 11th, 2025. The victim was driving along Ruai-Kangundo Road, heading to her residence at Malaa, when her vehicle skidded off the road and became stuck. As she attempted to extricate her car from the mud, she was approached by the two suspects and their five accomplices, who pretended to assist her. However, their intent quickly turned sinister as they forced her into the car's boot, taking control of the vehicle. The suspects drove along Kangundo Road, through Mowlem area, ultimately stopping near Nairobi River at Kwa Mbao within Dandora. There, they removed her from the boot and took turns assaulting her. Fortunately, the victim's distress caught the attention of another motorist, who intervened. Fearing exposure, the suspects abandoned the victim and fled in her vehicle. After her rescue, the victim was taken to hospital for treatment, and the incident was reported at Kwa Mbao Police Post. Out of the mud and into the hands of the inhuman pack, the victim lost household items she had purchased, her vehicle and money swept from her accounts. Worst still was the traumatic experience from the people she hoped were out to save her. Thanks to meticulous forensic analysis and swift action by detectives, who trailed the two suspects back to the crime scene, leading to their eventual arrest. Cornered and with no room for escape, the suspects led detectives to Maringo area of Buruburu sub-county, where the stolen vehicle was recovered, albeit vandalized and stripped of its wheels. Additionally, some other exhibits stolen from the woman's vehicle were recovered. The suspects are currently in custody, undergoing processing as detectives continue the search for their accomplices, who remain at large. Courtesy: DCI Friday, April 4, 2025 - Tanzanian actress, model and brand influencer, Nana Dollz, finally broke her silence after she was linked to an affair with Kasarani Member of Parliament and Sportspesa CEO, Ronald Karauri. Taking to her Instagram account, Nana defended her choices and slammed her critics, saying she has the right to love whoever she wants. This socialite has the right to love whoever she wants to love. And my relationship with whoever Im with doesnt have to make sense to anyone except us coz we are adults and we know what we are doing, she wrote in part. She further asserted her identity beyond the socialite label and refused to be shamed for her personal choices. Shes not just a socialite, she is smart, educated, hardworking, kind, loving, God-fearing and loyal, she stated. Tanzanian blogger Mange Kinambi exposed Nanas affair with Karauri by sharing a series of photos of the fast-rising model in Karauris palatial home. The photos, which quickly spread online, appear to show Nana wearing the MPs clothes and posing both inside the residence and on its grounds, fueling speculation about their relationship. Kinambi further claimed that Nana has been pressuring Karauri to bankroll her lavish lifestyle, including funding the completion of a mansion and even lobbying for a swimming pool to be added to the property. It later emerged that Karauri parted ways with his estranged wife, Captain Ruth, a well-known commercial pilot, about three years ago. See the screenshot of Nanas response. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, April 4, 2025 - A Kenyan lady has stirred an online debate after posing a bold question on X (formerly Twitter) on whether it is appropriate for a 29-year-old man to find a 19-year-old lady attractive. The post quickly went viral, igniting mixed reactions. While some netizens saw no issue, citing personal preference and legality, others felt the age gap raised concerns around maturity and power dynamics. The conversation continues to divide opinion across social media. See her post and reactions below. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, April 4, 2025 - Cera Imani, the ex-girlfriend to disgraced city car dealer, Khalif Kairo, was pictured with Brian Kimanzi, a local content creator, sharing great moments together. Cera is among the slay queens who squandered Khalif Kairos money before his once-thriving business collapsed. He flew Cera to lavish vacations in Dubai, Jamaica and other foreign countries, besides spoiling her with expensive gifts. The trending photo comes at a time when Khalif Kairo is languishing at Industrial Area, where he is being held after failing to meet the court's bond requirements for his release. Kairo was arrested on March 25th, 2025, and presented at the Kibera Law Courts the following day, where he was denied cash bail but granted a KSh2 million bond - a condition he has yet to fulfill. According to Kairo, a well-connected woman, whose new car he failed to deliver, has vowed to continue frustrating him with arrests and allegedly threatened to have him locked up to teach him a lesson. Until Kairo deposits a car logbook, a title deed, or any other appropriate document as collateral for his bond, he will remain in remand. Kairo's legal team has filed a constitutional appeal to review the criminal proceedings against him, arguing that the repeated arrests have damaged his business, forcing him to shut down his offices and lay off employees, further delaying car deliveries for other customers. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, April 4, 2025 - Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has sent shockwaves through the political scene with a bombshell expose on President William Rutos corrupt dealings. In an explosive sit-down on NTV's Fixing the Nation, Muturi accused the President of purporting to fight corruption while allegedly running shady, billion-shilling deals behind closed doors. I think Ruto is unfit to be President, Muturi stated boldly, adding, Theres no bitterness here - just my honest assessment. He claimed that Ruto once pressured him to sign a Ksh.129 billion deal with Russian oligarchs for a tree-planting project without proper legal procedures. Muturi says he refused, insisting that such funds must go through the Treasury - not directly to a Ministry. "I was invited to go to COP 28 in Dubai, which ended up in the Adani Deal about the airport. During that time, some Russian oligarchs wanted to invest Ksh.129 billion in Kenya. "I landed in Dubai and received a phone call from Ruto, who told me that the Russians were waiting at the airport and I needed to sign the documents. I declined, saying I needed to review the documents in the office," he revealed. "The deal purported to give a grant of Ksh.129 billion to grow allegedly 3 billion trees. Whenever Ruto comes up with a project, it's for moneymaking. So they bring me a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and I tell them that the Ksh.129 billion can only be by a grant but can't come directly to the Ministry. It only goes through the Treasury." He disclosed. He also tied Ruto to the controversial Arror and Kimwarer dam scandals, where billions were paid to Italian firm CMC di Ravenna for projects that either stalled or showed no meaningful progress. They wanted me to sign off, but I couldnt. The country stood to lose Ksh.38 billion, Muturi revealed. While the revelations come just weeks after Muturi was ousted in a Cabinet reshuffle and replaced by Mbeere North MP, Geoffrey Ruku, he has insisted that he has a no personal vendetta against the current regime. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, April 4, 2025 - A family is looking for their daughter who went missing under mysterious circumstances days before her wedding. The missing lady, identified as Joy Ngina, was last seen on Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025, when she met her boyfriend to plan for their much-anticipated wedding. After the meeting, she didnt return home. She sent a text message to her boyfriend, saying her life was in danger, before her phone went off. Joys disappearance has left her parents and siblings devastated as they anxiously await any updates on her whereabouts. Friends and relatives have been sharing her photo on social media, hoping to find her safe and sound. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, April 4, 2025 - Nyandarua Senator John Methu has lit up social media with a brutal tackle on Kapseret MP, Oscar Sudi. The drama began when Methu boldly warned President William Ruto and his inner circle of a hostile reception in Nyandarua during the Presidents Mt Kenya tour - a prediction that came true as heckling marred their visit, cutting speeches short and sending a clear political message from the locals. Unfazed, Sudi - a close confidant of the President - attempted to belittle Methu, dismissing him as a "political novice" who stood no chance against so-called political engineers, a nod to his own famed nickname. But Methu didnt take the jab lying down. He clapped back with a stinging rebuke that didnt just check Sudi, but also threw shade at the President himself and netizens have unaninimously agreed that Sudi met his match in the son of Mau Mau See the exchange below. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, April 4, 2025 - A tragic incident in Aolo village, East Kamagak, has left residents in shock after a 15-year-old Form Three student chopped off his cousins hand during a heated altercation. The teenager is currently being held at Kosele Police Station in Rachuonyo South sub-county following the shocking event. According to local authorities, the suspect had been given money to buy sugar but failed to do so. When confronted by his cousin - a Grade Seven pupil - he turned violent. Kawere West Sub-location Senior Assistant Chief Daniel Odhiambo explained that the confrontation escalated quickly, and in the heat of the moment, the boy used a machete, severing his cousins left hand. Reports indicate that the victim was trying to break up the fight when she was attacked. Neighbours, alarmed by the commotion, rushed to the scene and found her in excruciating pain. She was immediately taken to Rachuonyo South Sub-county Hospital in Oyugis. Rachuonyo South Police Commander Philemon Saera confirmed the incident, stating that the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue. The Kenyan DAILY POST Friday, April 4, 2025 - Two thieves were caught red-handed stealing and given an unconventional punishment, instead of being subjected to a mob justice. The suspects, young men in their early 20s, were forced to dance to Amapiano, a popular music genre in South Africa. The petty thieves had no other option other than following the instructions as they begged the mob to spare their lives. Watch the hilarious video. Thieves caught stealing forced to dance Amapiano pic.twitter.com/8eDPuvjXFn DAILY POST (@dailypost_ke) April 4, 2025 The Kenyan DAILY POST 1 of 1 Raffles University Neemrana's sixth convocation khaskhabar.com : Fri, 04 Apr 2025 2:38 PM Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav will be the chief guest Honorary Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) will be awarded to Emaar, Dubai founder Mohammed Alabbar 344 students will be awarded academic degrees Gopendra Nath Bhatt New Delh . Raffles University, located in the historic town of Neemrana on the Delhi Jaipur National Highway, will hold its sixth convocation this Saturday morning at the university campus. Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav will be the Chief Guest at the ceremony. Supreme Court Judge, Justice Dipankar Dutta and Founder of Emaar, Dubai, His Excellency Mohammed Alabbar will be the Special Guests at the ceremony. Vice Chancellor of Raffles University, Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Singh Sangwan informed that at the ceremony, Mohammed Alabbar, founder of Emaar, Dubai, will be honoured with Honorary Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa). The convocation will begin with the academic procession. During this, a total of 344 students will be awarded PhD, postgraduate and undergraduate degrees in the fields of engineering, management, agriculture, law, humanities, pharmacy, and basic and applied sciences. Apart from this, 21 gold medalists from various departments will be honored with medals. The ceremony will be presided over by the University Chairperson, Vivek Gomber. On this occasion, Dr. Justice Meena V. Gomber, Chairperson of Gomber Education Foundation will also be present. The ceremony will begin with a welcome address by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Singh Sangwan. He will present the annual report of the university. The ceremony will conclude with a vote of thanks by Registrar Prof. (Dr.) K. Karthikeyan. The name Athy is commonly believed to have come to us as the anglicized form of the ancient Irish place name Ath Ae. Patrick Woulfe, in his book Irish names and placenames, writes that at the time of the Norman invasion, surnames were still far from universal in England and many of the first settlers came to this country with only single names. Some of these took surnames on Irish soil after the Norman fashion, from the places where they settled. So it was that one of the first families to settle in and around south Kildare took their surname from the ancient Irish placename Ath Ae which was anglicised as Athy. The Athy family did not stay long in south Kildare. After a short stay, they moved to Galway where tradition relates that one of the Athy family erected the first stone house or castle in that area. The Athy family was later to become one of the 14 ancient tribes of Galway. There is no evidence of a fortress or settlement at Ath Ae in ancient times and so to Norman influence must be credited the first riverside settlement in the post-1169 period. Under the Normans, most of the province of Leinster passed into the hands of Richard de Clare, Earl of Pembroke, better known as Strongbow. Goddard Henry Orpen, in his pioneering work Ireland under the Normans, stated that the Barony of Rheban was probably granted by Strongbow to Robert de St. Michael. This must have occurred prior to 1176, the year of Strongbows death. Land allocation was generally followed by the construction of military fortresses in localities selected for their strategic importance. Such precautions were necessary against the dispossessed Irish who had been driven from the lands. The river Barrow was traversed at both Ath Ae and Rheban by fords, the control of which were vital to the Normans in maintaining supremacy over the Irish in the area. It is therefore reasonable to assume that Rheban Castle and Woodstock Castle or the earlier wooden structures which they might have replaced, were built soon after the arrival of the Normans. Many previous writers on Athy have ascribed the building of Rheban Castle to Richard de St. Michael. Richard was the son and heir of David de St. Michael and the grandson of the original grantee of the lands Robert de St. Michael. We know that David de St. Michael granted the Church of Rheban to the Abbey of St. Marys in Dublin before the end of 1200, a grant which was subsequently confirmed by his son Richard in 1215. It is highly probable that the church of Rheban came into existence after the erection of a Castle in the same locality, this being the usual sequence in a hostile country. Rheban Castle is therefore most likely of pre-1200 construction. On the other hand Woodstock Castle is universally accepted to have been built by Richard de St Michael who succeeded to his fathers property and title sometime before the confirmation of the gift of the Church of Rheban in 1215. There is no agreement amongst the many writers on Athy as to the year of the castles construction. In Residences and Castles of the Duke of Leinster the year 1190 is claimed, but not substantiated, as the year in which Woodstock Castle was built. In Anthologica Hibernica it is written that Woodstock was built about the time of the foundation of St Johns Abbey by Richard de St Michael as an appendage to the Palatinate of Dunamase. St Johns Abbey was founded by Richard during the reign of King John, who died in 1216. All the evidence points to the erection of Woodstock Castle in 1215 or thereabouts, and as such, the castle and St Johns priory represent the earliest buildings of what we now know as Athy, with the castle as the probable first building. The castles location, with the River Barrow to its rear and an extensive wood to the front, made the fortress almost impregnable and well sited to protect the ford over which it was to stand for many years. The catholic invaders of a catholic people who spoke a different language from that of the natives, and whose customs and traditions were also different, as far as possible, made their settlements self-sufficient. Religious settlements played an important part in Anglo Norman life as they had done in ancient Ireland. One may assume that the desire to make the everyday lives of the early settlers at Woodstock as Anglo-Norman as possible prompted the Baron of Rheban, Richard de St Michael, to invite the Order of Crouched Friars or Friars of the Holy Cross to come to the area. The Friars of the Holy Cross were so-called because of an embroidered cross worn on the habits of community members. Their monastery was established under the invocation of St John and its domain consisted of an island in the river Barrow and the adjacent fields as far as the former Barrack yard in Barrack Street. It included that part of the town now called St Johns and St Johns Lane. For the first 40 years or so of its life, the settlement on the western bank of the ford of Ae consisted of Woodstock Castle, with the Monastery of St Johns in its shadow and the huts of the Anglo-Norman settlers who came in the wake of Strongbows army. A judge was critical of the Department of Justice and its continued inaction in the realm of presumptive testing after hearing another drug possession charge had still not received directions from the DPP as the sample had not yet been tested. Seriously sergeant, you have a Minister for Justice whos a very serious barrister; you shouldnt have to wait nine months for a listing, said Judge Desmond Zaidan to Sergeant Dave Hanrahan. He was speaking in the case of Damien Shaw (53) of Sarto Park, Naas who was allegedly found with 160 worth of cocaine on James Lane in Naas on 21 February, 2024. You should have presumptive testing, said the judge. This is a policy where the accused agrees with the informal valuation of the discovered substance under a certain value and pleads guilty early in return for leniency in sentencing, thus freeing up a lot of court and lab time. Honestly, you couldnt make this up. Ive seen it work at a festival, and its tried and tested across the pond, and is now embedded in UK law, he said. He reminded the court of the pilot presumptive testing programme held at the Oxigen Festival in Punchestown in 2010. He explained how it was a multi-agency pilot 15 years ago and more than 80 per cent pleaded guilty! Seeing his chance for a strike-out, barrister Mark Gibbons asked the judge to mark the case pre-emptory. I will, in October, but sergeant, youve got to give me an undertaking then that your Garda Commissioner has made a submission (to the department) towards presumptive testing, said the judge. If you guys dont make representations nobody will listen, he added. I will mark it pre-emptory but on 23 October." AFTER confirming the closure of the 1,000 person capacity Ukrainian refugee facility at Floods Cross in Newhall, Naas on Friday (28 March), landowner Fintan Flood spoke candidly about the difficulties and rewards of such a fraught endeavour. Why did I do it? Well, it was the right thing to do, Fintan got straight to the point. Also, my sister-in-law is from the Ukraine, and Ive done a lot of business in the Ukraine but commercially for me it has been a disaster. We did it right, it was fully serviced, and we put in an astroturf pitch for the kids. It wasnt done for commercial interest for just 11 months, we thought wed extend on the contract after the year, but it was the right thing to do. Even as a capitalist, I dont think anyone should spend more than 20 per cent of their income on rent, said Fintan when asked how its use could be continued to address the housing shortage. For nurses or teachers or gardai, front-line staff, and I could start doing this within 10 weeks time if allowed. Its as fully tapped a site as any estate in Naas fully serviced. We spent 241,000 on sewerage, and 141,000 on water. If somebody said to me Horsebox, we need good value accommodation at short notice Id be able to say no problem. Itll now go back to grazing sheep, but if you really wanted nurses instead of sheep no problem. If you wanted 1,000 people in accommodation out there within 12 months no problem and that could start within 10 weeks. It is a fully serviced site, and at peak times there were 685 people being fed there every day. You could walk into Lidl in 10 minutes, get a taxi to Sallins Railway Station in 10 minutes, walk down to the bus stop and be in Dublin in 40 minutes. There was even a pathway into the middle of Naas specifically built so you wouldnt have to walk on public roads. Ive walked it, and can do it to Naas Town Hall in 26 minutes." Speaking about the opposition to the site, he said: I have some sympathy with the protesters. I have three children, and I dont have a rats arse clue how any of them are going to afford a house. Commercially, it has been an unmitigated disaster, and thats the nicest thing my accountant said to me! I may be an unsuccessful businessman, but Ive seen thing out there, and met people that I never expected to see, people coming with half legs and missing arms. Ive had pigs heads thrown at me, shite thrown over the gate, my wife and children abuse, and I had to give up a seat on a local board after being screamed at that I was a people trafficker. Explain how a rural site had such a degree of in-built facilities, he said: It had full planning permission in 2006 for factories, but was de-zoned in the latest County Development Plan. But this policy (the CDP) now says there are enough houses in Kildare so you cant build anywhere, so societally how can any young people afford a house? Ive done a lot of business all over the US and I predicted Donald Trump would win ... because when you look at all the Democrat-run states like California and New York and Massechusetts, and theyre so over-regulated now that people are moving to places like Texas and Florid where they can afford to build a house." Reverting to the local rather than geo-political, he said: But, we did a bit of good, and were very proud of it. Youd see somebody coming in with legs blown off, yet a week later you could be having a cup of tea with them and they wouldnt be shaking any more. I remember the first time we had to do the mandatory fire alarm test, and the first thing everybody did was dive under the tables. When I asked why, they said that every time they heard that sound over the last few years it meant bombs were coming." After a close-fought campaign, Josephine ONeill of Callan Macra, County Kilkenny, has been named Macras 40th National President Elect following the count in the Irish Farm Centre on Friday. ONeill, from Maddoxtown, Bennettsbridge, is a secondary school teacher of both Home Economics and Irish, in Presentation de la Salle College, Bagenalstown. Josephine has a background in farming. She has been an active member of not only her local club, but at national level in the Macra organisation, in recent years. From holding the position of chairperson of the Callan club, to winning the title of International Miss Macra, several years ago, just last year Josephine became the Kilkenny representative on the national council of Macra and chairperson of the national board of Macra. FOR MORE KILKENNY FARMING NEWS, CLICK HERE In the 12 years since she first joined Macra, the organisation has become a huge part of Josephines life. As well as being the chair and secretary of her local club she served as county treasurer ad county vice-president with Kilkenny Macra. Outgoing President Elaine Houlihan said, "Congratulations to Josephine on her victory. I am delighted to be handing over Macra to Josephine's safe hands and wish her the very best of luck as she adjusts to her new role." Josephine beat her opponent Conor Murphy, of Whitechurch Macra in the Seandun Region of Cork, by a margin of 29 votes. She will officially assume the role at the Macra National AGM in Ennis, County Clare, on the May 10, as will the three newly elected Vice Presidents. Andrew Dunne, a Software Engineer and member of Mountmellick Macra in Laois, ran unopposed in the Leinster region, and was deemed elected as Leinster Vice President at the close of nominations in March. The Northwest Vice President position was also uncontested, with John Duffy, a poultry technical advisor and member of Three Parishes Macra in Monaghan also being deemed elected at the close of nominations in March. There were four candidates in the race for the Munster Vice President role. The nominees were John Lonergan from Glanmire Macra, Seandun, County Cork, Liam Coppinger of Midleton Macra, Imokilly, County Cork, Tom Long, a member of Rathkeevin Macra in South Tipperary, and William Clancy of Borrisoleigh Macra in North Tipperary. William Clancy, a forester and beef farmer, was deemed elected following the first count, having reached the quota of 32 votes. Macra would like to congratulate all of the candidates who ran for election, and we wish our newly elected presidential team the very best of luck over the next two years. READ NEXT: Phil Hogan cuts ribbon as new 'advanced automation' farm business opens in Kilkenny Gavin Sheehan is relishing being reunited with little warrior Hewick after answering the call to partner Kilkenny trainer John Shark Hanlons pint-sized hero in the Randox Grand National. Sheehan memorably stepped into the breach aboard Hewick when the duo came from the clouds to record a thrilling victory in the 2023 King George VI Chase. Now the 32-year-old hopes it is a case of history repeated in the next leg of Hewicks incredible journey at Aintree, for which he has been heavily backed in recent days. READ NEXT: Hurling star plans to purchase community 'complex' in Kilkenny INCREDIBLE!!!!! Hewick comes from the clouds in a dramatic finish G1 King George VI Chase to give @jhanlonracing & Gavin Sheehan victory in the @kemptonparkrace feature pic.twitter.com/J0UoJh6Eeu Racing TV (@RacingTV) December 26, 2023 Hes given me one fantastic day in my career already, hes a remarkable horse isnt he, said Sheehan. You cant help but love him, hes a little warrior. Hes a special little horse and it would be a fairytale they will probably make a movie if he wins the Grand National. Its been some journey for the owner T J (McDonald) and Shark, but if he were to win this, it would really top it off. Remarkably that Kempton triumph is the sole time Sheehan has ridden Hewick, and with a packed racing calendar he is likely to next see the popular 10-year-old only moments before the tapes go up amongst the white-hot atmosphere of the National start. It will also be a welcome return to National service for the Lambourn-based Irishman, who has not ridden in the worlds most famous steeplechase since partnering Hogans Height to finish 12th for Jamie Snowden in 2021. Hewick jumping the Grand National fences this morning in the Curragh. Thanks to the Curragh for letting us use the fences @AintreeRaces | #TeamHewick pic.twitter.com/v93NwM4T6l Shark Hanlon Racing (@jhanlonracing) March 25, 2025 I would say I wont see him until Im getting legged up on him before the race. I never sat on him before the King George and the first time I saw him was when he was walking round the parade ring at Kempton, explained the BetVictor ambassador. I did have a plan to go over there before the National, but were racing every day over here. I was going to try to get over, but Shark said there would be no point and that Hewick was in good form. Jody McGarvey schooled him the other day and Jody said he was very good, hes a small horse to be going over those fences, but they arent the same as they once were. Hewick tuned up for Aintree by winning over hurdles under the trainers 17-year-old son Paddy at Thurles and Sheehan hopes his mount has both the class and good fortune to thrive in a modern-day Grand National. Hes run some fair races since I last sat on him and hopefully well have some ground and things will be in his favour, Sheehan said. Hes won over three-miles-five before at Sandown and he fits the profile. Shark has been thinking about the race for a good few years now. You can get a loose horse wiping you out and you can get a horse falling in front of you and you need luck, which I guess is what makes the Grand National so special. FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE A hoopoe bird, a non-native species notable for its distinctive crown of feathers, has been spotted in Kilkenny. Freelance ornithologist Eric Dempsey brought the presence of the bird to the attention of his followers on social media in recent days. "There's been a big influx of hoopoes into Ireland since the weekend," he posted. READ NEXT: Well-known Kilkenny fashion and clothing store to close permanently "A classic case of 'over-shoot' migration where birds moving out of Africa into Europe overshoot their intended target aided by strong winds. Sahara dust also landed during the same weather. "I was delighted to connect with [a] stunning hoopoe at a (private) site in County Kilkenny." In his post, Eric attached a picture of a hoopoe (similar to the file photo above). The hoopoe is easily recognised by its striking orange-brown plumage, black-and-white striped wings, and a prominent fan-like crest tipped with black. Its name comes from its distinctive 'oop-oop-oop' call, which it uses to communicate with others. It is considered a sacred bird in some cultures and is even mentioned in the Bible and the Quran. In ancient Egypt, hoopoes were often depicted in hieroglyphics, symbolising protection and wisdom. Have you been lucky enough to spot any hoopoes in your corner of Kilkenny? FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE Meanwhile, Frances underperformer went berserk due to the duties imposed on all countries by Donald Trump. Well, how he got madhe fancied himself a Jedi, took out a suit from the closet, grabbed a baguette instead of a lightsaberand how he threatened! He threatened retaliatory duties and said these duties would harm the Americans themselves. "They will become poorer than yesterday," the French president said. And he even called on Trump to release Le Pen. Is Macron even aware that he wont be able to pull off a trade war with the United States? This is politics, not cinema. Two different generations - young students and their grandparents - were brought together through mutual bonds last week as Scoil Aireagail in Ballyhale celebrated its annual Grandparents Day. As part of Wellbeing Week and National ETBI Week, the day began with a warm welcome for the many grandparents and significant others in the school. Throughout the morning, guests were treated to a wonderful programme of poems written and shared by students about their grandparents, touching on themes of love, memory, and gratitude. There was also a vibrant celebration of Irish culture, with music from the schools trad band, Irish Dancing performances, and student-led stories that showcased the rich array of activities and achievements happening across Scoil Aireagail. The performances highlighted not just the talents of the students, but also the strong sense of community and pride that runs through the school. A particularly meaningful moment in the event was the presentation of a donation to the local Ballyhale branch of St Vincent de Paul. The money was raised from sales of the award-winning financial literacy book, Smart Money for Smart Teens, written by the schools own third year digital literacy students. The book, which focuses on essential financial skills for young people, recently received national recognition and is a testament to the innovation and hard work of students and teachers. Chief Executive of KCETB Eileen Curtis also attended the event, as she prepares for her retirement. The school community acknowledged and thanked her for her unwavering support of Scoil Aireagail, and her contribution to education across Kilkenny and Carlow ETB over the years. The event was filled with smiles, stories, music, and connection - and served as a beautiful reminder of the power of community and the importance of intergenerational relationships. Attendees also took a moment to remember those grandparents who are no longer with us, whose influence continues to live on through their grandchildren. At Scoil Aireagail, these events serve to remind everyone of core values of excellence in education, care, community, respect, and equality. It was truly a celebration of family, community, and the heart of what makes Scoil Aireagail a very special place. READ MORE KILKENNY SCHOOLS NEWS HERE A guest post by Lucy Rogers: Within hours of the 156 page Independent Police Conduct Authority report coming out on 18 February everyone seemed to have an opinion on it. There seemed to be an immediate consensus that it was a threat to free speech and I saw someone on Twitter say dismissively that the IPCAs response to police misconduct at Albert Park was to give more powers to the police. I mention in passing that by far the most stupid response I have seen was the following cartoon by Emma Cook: (Its so out of touch with reality its unreal. The report covered two Israel/ Palestine related arrests: Daniel Maxwells case and mine. Maxwell was waving an Israeli flag and I was holding a sign criticising the pro-Palestine protesters for being hypocrites. The idea that the IPCAs report is motivated by hostility for innocent pro-Palestine protesters is downright absurd.) Anyway, suffice it to say that I suspect many people criticising the report havent actually read it. (In fact, my nasty, cynical side thinks the only people who are going to read it in full are politicians, academics and me.) Having read it in its entirety, I have noticed some points of critical importance that absolutely nobody seems to be pointing out: The report recommends making it mandatory to notify the police of certain categories of protest 21 days in advance, but does not recommend making it a criminal offence not to do so. Whether or not you agree with the proposal, this is an enormously important point. If youre curious as to why the IPCA is recommending what arguably amounts to an optional notification system or why a protest would voluntarily provide notification in advance, I suggest reading the report in its entirety but in particular the thoughtful arguments set out in paras 198-200. The report makes important points about this proposal. I shall list only four: Every other democracy in the world requires protest organisers to provide more advance notification of protests to Police than New Zealand does (in fact, pretty much all we have are a collection of disused council bylaws applicable only in certain parts of NZ.) The IPCAs proposed reforms are on the moderate end of the spectrum relative to overseas (where in some places, like the UK, it is a criminal offence not to provide police with notification of a protest in advance.) The development of social media means that protests are being organised far more quickly than in the past, making it difficult for police to arrange the deployment of adequate staff at short notice (to say nothing of organising, say, traffic management plans). For example, police were provided with only two days notice of a major protest in Riccarton recently. By contrast, you can imagine that in the pre-internet era to sufficiently advertise a protest one might have to take out an advertisement in a local newspaper and wait for people to see it. The notification regime would apply only to certain limited types of protest. The report acknowledges [a] blanket requirement for notification of every assembly in a public place, enforced by criminal penalties, would be unjustified and says that part of the reason for this is that it would be an unreasonable limitation on spontaneous protests (para 201). I am not saying I agree with the report (in fact, I have some criticisms of it) but I think it at least merits a fair hearing. My own thoughts on the proposal both praise and fair criticism will be forthcoming in due course. But I do have a practical suggestion for the IPCA: issue a condensed summary of such reports in future which are more accessible to members of the public. AKA: Our actual spending to try and improve things is tiny! AKA: The current government is a very long way from keeping their promises to reduce the spend on bureaucracy. 1. Our government education spend for 2024-25 is $20.5billion (exclusive of tertiary education). 2. 31.3% of the public sector work-force is for education (150,800 employees). 3. This is all paid for by taxpayers. Any government likes to say they are spending it is never true. They are only allocating other peoples money. 4. The Ministry of Education budget after excluding property (where they are known to be incompetent) and frontline services for learning support is $547million. 5. The National and ACT parties promised to reduce the Ministry employment of full time equivalents to 2,700 (the number before the recent Labour government). Halfway through their term the Ministry FTE is at 3,949 with a head-count of 4,217 employees (which does not include teachers). i.e. A massively broken promise that I hope the Taxpayers Union is investigating. We have a hugely bloated Education Ministry and on their way to this staff blow-out all achievement statistics for NZ students have declined. It should also be noted that the oversight of the MOE by the Minister and State Services has not been able to appoint a new Secretary for Education despite the old one walking out the door in October 2024. The current senior leadership of the MOE is to Education in NZ as Mike Tyson is to Ballet worldwide. They MUST employ someone from well outside the current system! 6. The percentage of spend for food for supporting education for early childhood and schools is: $273,548,000 / 20,500,000,000 = 1.33%. i.e. recognize the current social/educational situation and feed the children well. Afterall parents are paying via tax. Doing crazy things to save $120 million here is like not building the best sand castle on a NZ beach as you are worried about running short of grains. Seymour saving $120 million while creating all sorts of havoc and providing only 15% of daily nutrition to the kids who are: actually at school. eligible to school lunches is like the savings you get from playing the neutral game in the car for the last 400m to home after you have driven from Wellington to Auckland. 7. Funding to improve attendance is: $34,000,000 / 20,500,000,000 -= 0.17% of the education spend. Attendance and the 10,000 children enrolled nowhere are the biggest problems for our system and we have a barely attentive Ass Minister and are spending copper on improving it. 8. The failing Charter School roll-out is only $123,000,000 $30,000,000 on the Charter School Agency both over four years = 0.12% of the education spend. Not a chance of being game-changing. 9. In term 4 of 2024 the overall attendance by school students in NZ was 58.1%. This is marginally up on T4 2023 but it was 64.7 in 2021. For Maori the full attendance figure was 44.1%. For Pasifika the full attendance figure was 42.4%. NB: David Seymour is the Associate Minister in charge of school lunches, attendance and Charter Schools. He has negotiated with National to enable himself to allocate funds like Scrouge McSeymour. 10. The MOE direct funding for Early Learning, Primary Schooling, Secondary Schooling totaled $8.382billion. Direct funding for supporting parents in education totaled: 2.97 million. i.e. 0.04% of the education budget. Those figures speak to the fact that we often blame parents but barely lift a finger to actually assist them. The National/ACT education mandate was for change. At best change is currently glacial. The curriculum changes have some positive aspects but are at the margins for many and the NCEA changes that have now been embedded are crushing Maori, Pasifika and low income students. In terms of education National/ACT is governing for their voters and not the general population and those that need improvement the most. Alwyn Poole [email protected] Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Partly cloudy this evening. Scattered thunderstorms developing after midnight. Low 73F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening. Scattered thunderstorms developing after midnight. Low 73F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%. Gov. Mike Kehoe urges Missouri residents to avoid areas that experience heavy amounts of rainfall this weekend as the chance for rivers and streams to flood is a concern, according to a news release. Kehoe signed an executive order on Wednesday to activate the Missouri National Guard and coordinate with the State Emergency Management Agency to monitor weather patterns throughout the days ahead, according to the release. The executive order will expire on April 14. Officials report that the Missouri National Guard was deployed to Butler County with highwater vehicles and motorist assistance to prepare for the weather. The team will reinforce the levee, sandbag and distribute commodities throughout the county. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Breaking down the dangers of flash flooding Flash flooding can cause hazardous travel, dangerous trail conditions, and can lead to water rescues. The governor's office reminded Missourians of safety tips to remember when it comes to flash flooding and high-water risks: Do not drive on a flooded roadway. A foot of water will cause many vehicles to float, and two feet of rushing water could carry a vehicle away. Slow down when driving at night when conditions are poor, due to low visibility. You could end up in the water before you see it. Ameren is also advising customers on how to prepare for the rainfall and what to be aware of in your own home. Electrical item safety tips in storms Do not step into a flooded basement or an area with water that could come into contact with electrical appliances, cords, or outlets. Do not attempt to turn the power off on your breaker box if you must get to the area through standing water. Instead, you can call Ameren Missouri at 800-552-7583 to directly to suspend the power to the meter. Put electric tools and equipment at least 10 feet away from wet surfaces, including yard tools if the ground itself is wet. Check with an electrician before operating damaged electrical equipment before you continue using it. If you recognize flooding around your home or business, call your electric provider to cut the electricity off before it reaches electrical service equipment. Get ground-fault circuit interrupters professionally installed for any future storms. These devices are recommended for outdoor areas or those close to them, such as the kitchen, bath and laundry room can shut off the power instantly. President Donald Trump unveiled sweeping 10% tariffs on all imports to the United States Wednesday. About 60 countries or trading blocs will see even higher rates in an escalating move that is poised to initiate a global trade war. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Martina Keightley, Timahoe, Laois Special daughter of the late Michael and Nora Keightley and sister of the late Catherine Miller. Martina was a daughter, sister, niece, cousin, sister-in-law, aunt, grandaunt, and a loyal friend. Loved by All. Proud Timahoe woman and Special Olympian 2003. Safely Home. Sincere gratitude to Stradbally Medical Centre, the wonderful management and staff of Mountmellick Community Nursing Unit and all the HSE staff who assisted Martina on her journey. Martina's family would also like to thank Muiriosa Foundation, Down Syndrome Ireland, Special Olympics Ireland, home supports providers and carers and especially the many people who volunteered their time and hearts to enhance the life of our very special citizens. Martina will be reposing on Saturday evening from 7pm to 8pm in St. Michael's church, Timahoe, with recital of the rosary at 8pm. Martina's Requiem mass will take place at 1pm in Saint Michael's church, Timahoe, on Sunday 6 April, followed by interment in Saint Michael's Cemetery. House strictly private please at all times. A 59-YEAR-OLD man who issued a threatening letter to Operation Transformation psychologist Dr Eddie Murphy was jailed for four months at Portlaoise District Court yesterday 3 April. Sergeant JJ Kirby said that Dr Murphy was waiving his right to anonymity and was agreeing to lift reporting restrictions. Paul Mangan, 25 The Green, Liffey Hall, Newbridge, Co Kildare pleaded guilty to a single charge under Section 4 of the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020. Garda Rebecca Cleary said that on 31 October 2023, the accused entered Portarlington Enterprise Centre, Canal Road, Portarlington, where Dr Murphy has an office, and delivered a letter for his attention before leaving. In a statement to gardai, she said that Dr Murphy initially thought the envelope contained a Mass card as his mother had died recently, but it transpired that an allegation was made that he was having an affair with the accuseds wife. Garda Cleary said that a cautioned statement was taken from the accused and in it Mr Mangan admitted to delivering the letter. In his statement, Mr Mangan said: The letter outlined that I knew that there was something going on with him and my wife. The gist of it was to stay away from my wife and my family. I did say that I would confront him. By that I meant I would speak to him about it. There was no physical threat, nor would I dream of it. Defending solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said that her client provided full co-operation to gardai when he was contacted. Dr Murphy took the stand and asked for permission to read into the court record his victim impact statement. He said: This victim impact statement is provided by myself and my wife, as a couple who have been affected by a criminal action of an individual. This person inflicted significant distress and fear through his targeted and deliberate harassment, including coming to my workplace and issuing threats, and attempted to damage my personal and professional reputation. It was deeply disturbing. It has shaken our personal security. He sent a direct communication containing threats warning of vengeance and severe consequences, saying I will destroy you. I will confront you at your office. He specifically targeted my good name as a professional psychologist. He threatened to post it on specialised forums that would then go on to mainstream. That he would contact my colleagues and peers in my place of work. His threats were explicit, calculated and terrifying. He said that he was going to be utterly ruthless with the capacity for vengeance. He said that he would bring so much trouble into my world that it would bring Armageddon and so much trouble. Dr Murphy said: These threats caused emotional harm to me. It terrified me. It affected my wife. She just had a significance cancer diagnosis as well. Our home, which is a place of safety, is now a fortress. We put in security cameras and alarms. We have no sense of peace. The ordeal came a week after the death of my mother. It was a time when my family was in a very vulnerable state. We were thrown into a nightmare of fear and distress. I couldnt grieve for my mother for over a year, because I was so anxious and depressed. I was diagnosed with acute stress disorder and my GP advised that I take a month off work. I was always wondering whether he would follow through on the threats. Dr Murphy said that he had never met Mr Mangan. Under questioning from the defendants solicitor, Dr Murphy said that Mr Mangans wife works in the psychology services, and he manages over 40 psychologists. He said that he had worked with the accuseds wife for over 20 years and had never socially met her. Ms Fitzpatrick said that her client had written a letter of apology, which Dr Murphy refused to accept. Referring to the letter that Dr Murphy had received at his place of work, Judge Andrew Cody said it was shocking, disgusting and despicable. It must have been terrifying. Ms Fitzpatrick said that her client, who is originally from Co Mayo, had recently been separated, partly arising from the incident. She said that at the age of 24 he graduated with a qualification as a registered qualified nurse. In his early 30s he began as a staff nurse in St Patricks Mental University Hospital in Dublin and since 2017 has been in charge of a ward with a staff quota of 22 people. She said that Mr Mangan firmly believed that his wife, who is a senior psychologist, was having an affair with Dr Murphy and she asserted that he was suffering with a delusional mental disorder. He felt that she was using the weight of her professional standing to categorise him as an individual with a mental disorder. Ms Fitzpatrick said that Mr Mangan was offering 3,000 by way of compensation for the distress he caused to Dr Murphy. However, Dr Murphy said he was refusing to accept it and instead asked that it be given to the charity Lust For Life. Before passing sentence, Judge Cody said that he was bemused and questioned why the DPP did not direct that the case be heard at circuit court level, where a higher sentence could be passed. The judge said the letter was as bad as you can get in terms of the threats, the name-calling and the allegations. He added: The fact that this would be sent by a mental health professional is equally shocking. Id hate to think that any relative of mine would be treated in any hospitals where Mr Mangan was working. Sentencing Mr Mangan to four months in prison, Judge Cody, at the request of Ms Fitzpatrick, went on to set an own bail recognisance of 1,000 with a cash bond of 500 in the event he wished to appeal against the sentence, which he took up before close of court business. A PORTLAOISE school has been named Irelands Sustainable Travel School of the Year, after a remarkable effort by students and staff. Scoil Chriost Ri was among only four schools nationwide to receive awards at the 2025 Green-Schools Travel ceremony, which was held in the beautiful surroundings of Dublin Zoo on 3 April. The judges said that the all-girls school with 850 pupils in Portlaoise was a deserving regional and national winner, as the students excelled and truly embraced the challenge. An Taisce Green-Schools presented the award at an event honouring the winners of this years Green-Schools Big Travel Challenge, which was held in Haughton House at Dublin Zoo. Schools took on the Big Travel Challenge from 4-14 February, when they were asked to focus on one or more sustainable transport mode for two weeks, to see if they could achieve real, lasting change in the travel behaviour of staff and students. A record number of students actively took part in the challenge at Scoil Chriost Ri and managed to double park and stride numbers, with almost half the school walking or wheeling. They also organised a 'Galentines' WOW (Walk on Wednesday) Day, linking in their walking with friendships, positive relationships and healthy habits. Congratulating Scoil Chriost Ri and three other award-winners at the ceremony, Green-Schools Travel programme manager Allison Phillips said: It was truly inspiring to see students from across the country taking on the challenge to love our health, love our planet, by supporting active and sustainable travel to school. Your work is testament to the collaborative work of students, teachers and the whole school community. Other initiatives around the country included best carpool karaoke, most creative classroom workshops and best social media post. The Challenge is an initiative of the Green-Schools Travel theme, which is supported by local authorities, the National Transport Authority and the Department of Transport. On 3 April Nicaraguan opposition figures such as exiled former politicianhailed a report released that day by the United Nations (UN)-appointed panel of human rights experts on Nicaragua (GHREN) which for the first time identifies 54 government and military officials and members of the ruling Frente Sandinista de Liberacion Nacional (FSLN) as responsible for alleged grave human rights violations, abuses, and other crimes. End of preview - This article contains approximately 402 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 3 April Argentinas senate voted to reject Presidents appointment of two supreme court judges by decree last month. End of preview - This article contains approximately 376 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options Ford is recalling more than 138,000 Ford Escape, Expedition and Bronco Sport SUVs and Lincoln Navigators in two separate recalls this week. AP Ford Motor Company is recalling more than 138,000 vehicles in two recalls this week. The recalls involve Ford Escape, Expedition and Bronco Sport as well as Lincoln Navigator SUVs with serious mechanical issues. The model years range from 2018 to 2023 with malfunctions that dealers will need to assess and repair for free. Heres everything you need to know about the latest Ford SUV recalls. 105,000 Ford and Lincoln SUVs recalled over seat belt issues Ford is recalling about 105,322 SUVs due to seat belt issues. The models subject to this recall are Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles made between 2018 and 2020. The vehicles are being recalled because the seat belts can lock in place, which would keep them from retracting or extending to buckle a driver or passenger in place. Dealers will inspect the seat belt parts on these affected models and if necessary, replace them at no cost to the owner. 33,000 Ford vehicles recalled for faulty repairs The models subject to this recall include 2020 to 2022 Escape and 2021 to 2023 Bronco Sport vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The reason for the updated recall is that a fuel injector in the already recalled vehicles could crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment. The NHTSA also noted that these vehicles dont have the Powertrain Control Module software that can fix these issues. Owners will be notified about the recall by April 24, and dealers will update the software at no cost to the owner. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips. New Jersey schools performed well in several key areas compared to the rest of the nation last year, but students are still struggling to recover from learning lost during the pandemic, new education data shows. The school performance reports released Wednesday detail how each of the states nearly 2,500 public schools did during the 2023-24 school year. The reports showed growth in some educational areas, and room for improvement in others, state Department of Education officials said. Overall, New Jersey students scored higher on the SATs than the previous year, missed fewer days of school, and took more AP classes than their peers in other states. In-school suspensions were back to their pre-pandemic levels. But rates of chronic absenteeism remain above pre-pandemic levels. Reports of behavioral problems also remain higher than before COVID closures disrupted schools in 2020, but showed a promising drop compared to the prior year. This is going to be stating the obvious it looks like the trajectory is in the right direction overall with the report, which is nice to see, state Board of Education member Jeanette Pena said at Wednesdays meeting after the data was unveiled. How to look up your schools report Full reports are available for every public school in New Jersey on the state Department of Education website. To look up a school, go to the New Jersey School Performance Report page and search for the schools name. Then, select either summary report or detailed report. The website also includes options to view data for individual school districts and the entire state. Here are some key statewide takeaways from this years School Performance Reports: Absenteeism About 15% of New Jersey students were chronically absent last school year, meaning they missed more than 18 days of school in a year. The rate remains above pre-pandemic levels, when just 10.6% were chronically absent. New Jersey has one of the lowest rate of chronic absenteeism, based on states that have already reported their 2023-24 data. For the first time this year, data was provided detailing the number of days students missed. The majority of students, about 67%, missed fewer than 13 days of school. About 15% missed between 13 and 18 days. This detailed picture at absenteeism will help districts better understand whats going on in each school and district, Office of Performance Management director Jessica Merville said while presenting the data. When students are in school, theres a directed positive impact on academics and the programs districts are offering, she said. Cant see the chart? Click here. Violence, vandalism, bullying and suspensions In-school suspensions have fallen to pre-pandemic levels, while out-of-school suspensions are still higher. Compared to 2022-23, the overall number of both types of suspension has decreased. The numbers are moving in the right direction, Merville said. The Department of Educations focus on student mental health may be helping to drive these decreases, so its essential that we continue to support districts in this work to ensure all students are safe and supported in their schools. Cant see the chart? Click here. Test scores and advanced coursework New Jersey students continue to be among the top performers in the nation when it comes to enrolling and testing proficiently in Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate classes. New Jersey ranks second in the nation for growth in AP course enrollment over the past decade and in the rate of students passing the year-end exams. Of students who enrolled in an AP course, 74% scored at least a three on the five-point grading scale. More than 85% of high schools offer five or more AP courses, one of the highest rates in the nation. PSAT and SAT SAT scores and participation rates have fluctuated in recent years as the pandemic caused the cancellation of the exam in 2020 and colleges have gone back and forth on being test optional for admissions. Overall, SAT scores spiked during the peak of the pandemic, when fewer students took the test. The scores have continued to decline slowly. The average score during the 2023-24 school year was 1,049 out of a possible 1,600, down nine points from the year before and 31 points from 2018-19. Nationally, the average SAT score was 1,024. The decrease in scores may be tied to the increase in participation, as we see more students taking the test over the last few years, Merville said. Additionally, theres been some growth in the number of students who take the SAT on a school day compared to the weekend, which may mean that a broader range of students have the opportunity to take the test." Cant see the chart? Click here. Cant see the chart? Click here. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Katie Kausch may be reached at kkausch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KatieKausch. The U.S. State Department issued an updated travel advisory to the Bahamas due to violent crime. Canva/Katherine Rodriguez The U.S. State Department issued an updated travel advisory to this popular Caribbean destination due to crime and other factors. The State Department reissued a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory to the Bahamas due to several factors, including violent crime, swimming risks and firearm warnings. Most crime occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands, the advisory states, especially in areas where there is gang violence. The advisory also warns travelers to be alert at all times on vacation rental properties where private security is not always present. Not only did the State Department warn travelers about crime, but also it issued a safety warning to swimmers. Never swim alone and beware of jet skis or other watercraft operating close to shore, the advisory states. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in public restrooms. The update also includes a section on firearms and ammunition in the Bahamas. It echoes a recent travel warning made for U.S. travelers to the Turks and Caicos islands that those who bring firearms or ammunition to the island risk being detained due to laws that prevent firearms and ammunition from entering the island. For those who do decide to travel to the Bahamas, keep these things in mind: Dont answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is. Lock doors and windows and use other security features, especially on balcony doors. Dont physically resist robbery attempts. Check your luggage and hand baggage carefully for ammunition or firearms before leaving the the U.S. because these things are illegal in the Bahamas You can find more information about the travel advisory and ways to stay safe while traveling here. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips. A Laois psychologist and television personality told a court he had to take a month off work and install a new home security system after receiving a terrifying letter. Paul Mangan (59) of 25 The Green, Liffey Hall, Newbridge, Co Kildare pleaded guilty to sending a threatening or grossly offensive letter communication with intent to cause harm at Portarlington Enterprise Centre, Canal Road, Portarlington on October 31, 2023. Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby told a sitting of Portlaoise District Court that the injured party was in court and wished to deliver a victim impact statement. He told Judge Andrew Cody that the injured party wished to waive his right to anonymity. Judge Cody said if the victim agrees then reporting restrictions dont apply. Garda Rebecca Cleary told the court a typed letter was hand delivered to Dr Eddie Murphys place of work on October 31, 2023. The accused was identified as the person who had delivered the letter, said Garda Cleary. Sgt Kirby said Dr Murphy had initially believed it was a mass card as his mother had died a week earlier. However, the letter contained an allegation that he was having an affair with the accuseds wife. Judge Cody was given a copy of the letter which he described as appalling after reading. It is shocking, it is disgusting and despicable. I think they are the only three words that come to mind at the moment. It must have been terrifying, said Judge Cody. He asked about the mans caution statement to gardai. Garda Cleary read the statement where the man admitted delivering the letter. He said he didnt see Dr Murphy or make any attempt to see him. The gist of it was, stay out of my familys affairs, he told gardai. There was no physical threat nor would I dream of it, the man had told gardai. Defence solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client was cooperative with gardai and was a staff nurse in the mental health services who worked in St Patricks Hospital in Dublin. Sgt Kirby said Dr Murphy was in court with his wife and had prepared a detailed victim impact statement. Dr Murphy took to the stand and read the victim impact statement which was prepared on his behalf and on that of his wife. He said the letter was a violation of his home and work life and had caused psychological damage and stress. He said the man, who was unknown to him, had warned of "vengeance" and was saying I will destroy you. I will confront you at your office. Dr Murphy said neither he or his wife had ever met the man before and the letter wasnt a misunderstanding but had been intentional. He described the letter as explicit, calculated and terrifying and said the author was utterly ruthless. He said I would be hearing from him up close and personal, Dr Murphy stated. Dr Murphy said his wife, who had been diagnosed with cancer, was forced to endure extreme stress as a result of the incident. He said he had developed anxiety, hyper vigilance and suffered from low mood in the wake of the incident. I felt no longer safe in public, he said. He said the letter could have easily been posted on an online forum and the man threatened to contact his superiors. He told the court that he had installed security cameras, alarms and security lighting and turned his home into a fortress following the incident. He had a month off work as a result of the letter. He said his public profile was put under threat and the incident impacted on his work and his wife. Christmas 23, 24 was overshadowed by this event, said Dr Murphy. We just want this person out of our life and a sense of safety, he said. We appreciate the work of An Garda Siochana and the courts, said Dr Murphy. I will not be making any further comments on this matter, he concluded. Judge Andrew Cody noted the man was a complete stranger and neither Dr Murphy or his wife had met him before. Dr Murphy explained the mans wife works in the HSE and he is her manager. I manage over 40 psychologists, he explained. Dr Murphy said he didnt know the man but he had worked with the mans spouse on and off in the HSE for the past 20 years. Ms Fitzpatrick said there was no publication of it. It was a letter that was addressed to you. Dr Murphy said I dont know that. He said the man had threatened numerous things in the letter. He said the man had walked into his place of work and he asked, what would have happened if I was in? Ms Fitzpatrick said her client had written a letter of apology to Dr Murphy. I dont want to receive any further letters from him, said Dr Murphy. I came here (Portlaoise District Court) a month ago and was here all day and he never showed up, said Dr Murphy. Ms Fitzpatrick said her client had been overwhelmed at the prospect and had an incident which required attendance in hospital as a result. It affected his ability to come to court, she said. Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the defendant had no previous convictions. Ms Fitzpatrick said her client, who is originally from Mayo, had been married for 20 years and was recently separated. She said he graduated as a nurse at the age of 24 and worked in St Patricks Hospital. He has had 38 years of an unblemished career in mental health work, she said. He firmly believed that his wife was having an affair with Mr Murphy, said Ms Fitzpatrick. She said when he confronted his wife, she asserted that he was suffering from a delusional mental disorder. Ms Fitzpatrick said the letter was addressed only to Dr Murphy but she acknowledged the ripple and consequences it caused. The accused never intended to harm Mr Murphy, she said. Judge Cody reminded Ms Fitzpatrick of the charge her client has pleaded guilty to. A core element of the crime is an intention to cause harm, he said. Ms Fitzpatrick said he appreciates that the impact has been profound on Mr Murphy. We absolutely accept that Mr Murphy, his wife and his children are the victims in this, said Ms Fitzpatrick. She said her client had brought a letter of apology and 3,000 to court. She said there had been a great deal of consequences for her client who was now separated and whose family home was being sold. The letter was written at a time when he was venting having been accused of suffering with a delusional mental illness, Ms Fitzpatrick said. Judge Cody said to describe the letter as grossly offensive would be an understatement. It is as bad as you can get in terms of name calling and the allegations, he said. He said the letter was sent with the intention of causing harm. The fact that this would be sent by a mental health professional is equally shocking, he said. Judge Cody said he would hate to think that any of his family would be treated in a hospital where the accused worked. He said he was somewhat bemused by the DPPs directions not to hear the case in the higher court. He imposed a four month prison sentence and ordered that the 3,000 be given to Dr Murphy. Dr Murphy asked that the 3,000 be donated to the 'A Lust for Life' mental health charity for children. Ms Fitzpatrick said her client had no previous convictions and she asked the judge to consider a probation report. It is an appalling but single incident, she said. Judge Cody said the "despicable and disgusting conduct deserves nothing short of a more substantial sentence. However, he said he was restricted to a six month sentence and he allowed credit of two months for the plea of guilty. Ms Fitzpatrick then asked the judge to fix recognisance in case of appeal. Judge Cody fixed recognisance on his own bond of 1,000 with 500 in cash subject to him having no contact whatsoever with Dr Murphy or any of his family members. The man lodged an appeal of the sentence before the court sitting had ended. Val Bracken - Clonaslee The death has occurred of Val Bracken (nee Daly) Coolagh, Clonaslee who died peacefully at her residence on April 3, 2025 surrounded by her family. Predeceased by her beloved husband John, her brothers John, Bill, Paddy, Joe & Tom, & her sisters Rose, Josie, Anne & Margaret.Val will be sadly missed by her loving sister Pauline & her residing niece Mary Margaret. Lovingly remembered by all her nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, relatives, great neighbours and her many many great friend's, all who visited her regularly. Reposing at her residence on Sunday, April 6 from 2pm with Rosary at 7pm.Funeral Mass on Monday, April 7 at 12 noon in St Manman's Church Clonaslee, with burial afterwards in St Patrick's Cemetery Killeigh Co. Offaly.Val's Funeral Mass can be viewed on www.churchmedia.tv Vals family would like to thank everyone for their kindness and support at this difficult time. If you wish to offer your condolences to the Bracken family, you may do so in the Condolence section below.As per Val's wishes, No flowers Please & No Mass cards Please. Donations can be made to the Irish Wheelchair Association or the Irish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Donation box available in the house & church. Martina Keightley - Timahoe The death has occurred of Martina Keightley, Timahoe. Special Daughter of the late Michael and Nora Keightley and sister of the late Catherine Miller.Martina was a Daughter, Sister, Niece, cousin, sister-in-law, aunt, grand-aunt, and a loyal friend. Also missed by her nephews and nieces in law. Loved by All. Proud Timahoe woman and Special Olympian 2003. Sincere gratitude to Stradbally Medical Centre, the wonderful Management and staff of community nursing unit Mountmellick and all the HSE staff who assisted Martina on her journey. Martina's family would also like to thank Muiriosa foundation, Down Syndrome Ireland, Special Olympics Ireland, Home supports providers and carers and especially the many people who volunteer their time and hearts to enhance the lives of our very special citizens. Martina will be reposing on Saturday evening from 7pm to 8pm in St. Michael's church Timahoe with recital of the rosary at 8pm. Martina's Requiem mass will take place at 1pm in Saint Michael's church Timahoe on Sunday 6th of April. Followed by Interment in Saint Michael's Cemetery.House Strictly Private Please at all times. Patrick Dunne - Portlaoise The death has occurred of Patrick Dunne, Hillside Clonad, Portlaoise and formerly of Aughadreen, Wolfhill. Patrick passed away peacefully in the care of Oghill Nursing Home, Monasterevin surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his wife Mary, son Robert, grandson John and sister Margaret. Patrick will be dearly missed by his sons Thomas, Pat, Jerry, daughters Ann Marie and Mamie, daughters-in--law, partners, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. Reposing at his residence at Hillside, Clonad, Portlaoise on Sunday from 4pm with recital of the Rosary at 7pm. Removal to Newlands Cross Crematorium, Dublin for 2.30 pm on Monday. House private on Monday morning by request. Enda McEvoy - Rosenallis Enda McEvoy Clonaheen, Rosenallis, Co Laois. Died peacefully April 1st at St. James Hospital Dublin in the company of his loving family. Predeceased by his loving mother Dorothy and his infant sister. Deeply regretted by his loving father Sean, brothers Richard, Michael, and Shane, sister-in-law Ann, nephews, relatives, neighbours and many friends. Rest in Peace. Funeral arrangements later. Minister for Justice Jim OCallaghan TD has welcomed the graduation of 123 Recruit Prison Officers at the Print Works, Dublin Castle. The new officers have now completed their Higher Certificate of Arts in Custodial Care (HCCC), developed and delivered jointly by the Irish Prison Service (IPS) and South East Technological University (SETU). The graduates spent the first 12 weeks of their training at the IPS College in Portlaoise. The Department of Justice said the graduating class forms part of the Services latest recruitment drive. They have already been placed in prisons throughout the State, including the Operational Support Group and the Prison Service Escort Corp. The graduation ceremony marked the formal recognition of the new officers academic achievement. Minister OCallaghan said he was honoured to congratulate the new prison officers on their graduation. "I commend them for their hard work and dedication over the course of their training, which will equip them with the knowledge and skills to carry out their work in a professional and meaningful way. These graduates are the backbone - and the future - of our prison system, and they will have a profound influence on how those in their custodial care can begin to prepare for a crime-free life and a fresh start when they leave. Prison officers make our communities safer, not just through providing secure custody, but also by providing the care and rehabilitation that those in custody need to be able to make the right choices when they are released, and I wish them all the best in what Im sure will be a long and rewarding career in the Irish Prison Service, he said. MORE BELOW PICTURE. The Director General of the Irish Prison Service, Caron McCaffrey also congratulated the graduates. Prison Officers work in a challenging environment where the needs of those in custody are many and the problems are complex. The conferring of the Higher Certificate in Custodial Care upon these officers today equips them with the skills and understanding required to work in a Prison and I commend them for their commitment to their studies and helping us to manage a prison service which is built on the respect for human dignity, she said. President of SETU, Professor Veronica Campbell emphasised the need to provide a high standard of training and education to support prison officers. In light of this, the Irish Prison Service and SETU have created a collaborative work-based programme that develops the reflective, theoretical and practical skills of the Recruit Prison Officer. With over 900 Recruit Prison Officers having successfully completed the programme since 2017, including the 123 graduates who were awarded a Higher Certificate of Arts in Custodial Care at Dublin Castle this evening, SETUs partnership with the Irish Prison Service is a prime example of our connectivity with our region, firmly aligned with our strategic goals in the provision of educational experiences that are student centred and responsive to learner needs. READ ALSO: 'Thats not Revenue texting you its a scam artist,' Laois Gardai warn I extend my sincere congratulations to this years graduates on their academic achievements. This milestone is a testament to the hard work you have invested in earning your qualification, said Ms Campbell. MORE BELOW PICTURE. The Higher Certificate in Custodial Care is a two-year part-time programme designed to develop the professional competencies of Prison Service staff in working with prisoners. The HCCC is intended to facilitate a greater understanding of how officers can confront challenges through the exploration of different subjects including, Resilience, Mental Health, Social Psychology and Human Rights. After initial training RPOs are assigned to a prison, with assignments based on the security and operational needs of each individual prison. The most recent RPO recruitment campaign was launched in August 2024 and closed in October 2024 and 1,509 applications were received for this campaign. A further recruitment campaign will launch later this year. An additional 18.5m was provided to the IPS in 2025 specifically for staffing to provide for increased pay roll costs, recruitment, and 65,000 additional hours to address current demands and maximise service delivery Prison Officer training is accredited by South East Technological University (SETU) as the Higher Certificate of Arts in Custodial Care and reflects Level 6 of the NQAI framework. Laois TD Deputy Willie Aird has urged Laois third level students to check if they qualify for the increased third level SUSI grant system. The Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) has opened for applications for the 2025/26 academic year, the Fine Gael Deputy said. He said the "substantial increase in the thresholds for grants" means more students will now be eligible for grant support. The increase in student maintenance grants are a step forward for students and families in Laois and across the country. Ensuring we remove any barriers to education has always been a key priority for Fine Gael. Im delighted that more students in Laois will now be able to benefit from financial support," he said. Fine Gael is committed to cutting the cost of education and alleviating financial pressures, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than any undue financial stress," added Dep Aird, who rose to national representation in the November 2024 Laois General Election after serving 45 years as a Portlaoise councillor. More families will now qualify, with the income limit raised to 115,000, allowing more students to access financial support. The special rate of grant has increased from 26,200 to 27,400, in line with rises in social welfare rates. Students can now earn more during the holidays without it affecting their grant, with the income deduction rising to 8,424. The scheme has been broadened to include students with certain immigration statuses, such as those under the Regularisation Scheme. I want to encourage all eligible students across Laois to apply now. Fine Gael believes in making major investments in our higher education system and we will help to ensure that every student in Laois has a meaningful opportunity to learn and get the qualification they want, the Laois TD said. Read also: 'Now is the time' for political pressure for Mountmellick bypass Following Budget 2025, SUSI income thresholds have increased by 15%. The top income threshold for SUSI has risen from 100,000 to 115,000. This rate gives families a 500 discount off student fees which are typically over 3,000 per year, but gives no maintenance grant payment. The first 5,000 of any scholarship or bursary will be disregarded from SUSIs income calculation. The normal full SUSI payment covering fees and a maintenance grant, for families up to three children, cuts off at 47,100. The "special rate" applies to families where one parent is receiving a social welfare income. Income limits rise by 4,950 per fourth and subsequent child. Renewal applications close on June 5 and new applications close on July 10. Visit the SUSI website at www.susi.ie. Kildare South TD and Minister for Agriculture, Food, Fisheries, and the Marine, Martin Heydon has welcomed funding of 845,000 for Maynooth University, as part of the Discover Awards co-funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, and Science and the Department of Education. The purpose of the funding is to enhance public engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The Research Ireland Discover Programme focusses on creating meaningful public engagement with STEM, emphasising collaboration with communities. The programme seeks to drive innovation in STEM education and public engagement, contributing to Irelands industry, enterprise, and societal progress. Speaking following the announcement, Minister Heydon said: The funding announced today will see a partnership between universities to support 5,350 students through university-accredited qualifications, industry mentoring and industry work experience to explore STEM education and employment opportunities. In such a fast-changing world, and society, we know that STEM stretches far beyond the classroom and lecture halls, and the projects that Government are supporting today, including in Maynooth, will help elevate student learning and opportunity. Promoting awareness and appreciation of STEM in all communities is vital in inspiring students of all ages. Concluding, Minister Heydon said: I look forward to seeing the benefits of this project, building on the strong platform of educational excellence and employment opportunity that Maynooth University, and all of our Third Level institutions have become so renowned for. READ NEXT: Water supply in parts of Newbridge, Co Kildare 'at crisis point' The Court of Appeal has rejected the States claim that a two-year suspended sentence was unduly lenient for a 22-year-old man who caused devastating and life-changing harm to a five-year-old girl through dangerous driving when he collided head on with her fathers vehicle. We think there is a distinction to be drawn between aggravating factors based on recklessness and conscious or deliberate choices to engage in conduct impacting the ability to drive safely, said Mr Justice John Edwards, delivering judgment in the case of the Director of Public Prosecutions versus Emmett Rigney (22). Rigney, of Shinrone, Co. Offaly was convicted of dangerous driving causing serious bodily injury arising out of a road traffic collision between two vehicles at Ballingarry, Co. Tipperary, on August 14, 2021. When the case was heard at Nenagh Courthouse in April 2024, the driver of the other vehicle told gardai that he saw a car driving fast coming towards him, with three cars in total that looked like they were racing. He tried to avoid me but it was too late. He was driving too fast and it was a slippery road... he hit me head on, said the witness, whose two children were in the rear of the vehicle. His five-year-old daughter suffered a very severe traumatic brain injury as a result of the crash. The girls mother, who was six months pregnant at the time of the collision, gave victim impact evidence that this incident had a destructive impact on the whole family. The wonderful life we had until the day of the accident was taken away from us, and the life (my daughter) could have had was taken away from her, she said. READ NEXT: EXPLAINER: What are the rules when it comes to leaving children at home alone? The respondent was convicted by Judge Catherine Staines at Nenagh Courthouse on April 26, 2024, with a headline sentence of three and a half years reduced to two years, which was suspended for two years on condition of the payment of 10,000 compensation. He was also disqualified from driving for six years. The DPP appealed this sentence on the grounds of undue leniency, arguing that it did not contain a sufficient element of punishment and that the assessment of the driving as being at the lower end of the mid-range was wrong in principle. In delivering the Court of Appeals judgement on Thursday, Mr Justice Edwards said the court recognised that devastating and life-changing harm was caused to the girl by the respondents dangerous driving, as well as significant collateral consequences for other members of her family. He noted that the family had suffered financial consequences and were caused worry, stress and major inconvenience, while the girl experienced a lengthy hospitalisation and subsequent programme of physical and mental rehabilitation. Mr Justice Edwards said that the DPP had argued that the sentencing judge erred in setting the headline sentence at three and a half years, as the aggravating factors included that the respondent engaged in racing, was attempting to overtake two vehicles at the same time, had crossed a continuous white line, was on the wrong side of the road, had failed to take account of the reduced visibility, and had disregarded a request from one of his passengers to slow down. We think there is a distinction to be drawn between aggravating factors based on recklessness and conscious or deliberate choices to engage in conduct impacting the ability to drive safely, said Mr Justice Edwards. READ NEXT: EXPLAINER: What are tariffs and how will they impact Ireland? Ruling that the court did not think the sentencing judge erred in her assessment of the respondents culpability, Mr Justice Edwards said that the evidence did not support that Rigney had been racing at the time. He noted that Rigney had accepted he made a very grave error of judgement in attempting to overtake in poor visibility and at speed when approaching a bend, and that this had been dangerous driving. We find the approach of the sentencing judge in this case to have been conscientious and careful, and that the reasons she has provided in explanation of her approach were cogent, said Mr Justice Edwards. While acknowledging that the sentence imposed was lenient, he said that the court did not consider it to be unduly lenient or outside of the norm. He noted the respondents relative inexperience at driving, his profound and genuine remorse, the fact that he was a first-time offender, and the fact that he had been assessed as being at a low risk of reoffending. Saying that the sentence imposed was designed to achieve communication of significant censure and to achieve deterrence both specific and general, Mr Justice Edwards ruled that the court was not persuaded that the sentencing judge got the balance wrong in all the circumstances. Accordingly, the application by the DPP was dismissed. The impact on Irish businesses and jobs from US tariffs will be felt immediately, including as early as this weekend, Ibec chief executive Danny McCoy has warned. According to Mr McCoy, demand for some Irish products will drop quite substantially from as soon as this weekend, forcing some employers to slash workers hours. He made the comments after he and other industry leaders and representatives met with senior ministers at the Government Trade Forum on Friday to discuss the impact of US tariffs on Irish exports. Mr McCoy said that the impact on demand for fast-moving consumer goods, like the drinks industry, will be felt immediately. There is immediacy for firms this weekend, who know that their demand is likely to drop quite substantially and their workers will need to go on short-time working, he added. He and other industry leaders have called for short-term government support for workers and businesses affected by tariffs imposed by the United States. The Irish Congress of Trade Unions and others have called for the introduction of measures similar to those introduced during Covid, such as short-time works schemes, to protect jobs and businesses from the fall out of the tariffs. Mr McCoy backed those proposals. Our experiences from both Covid and Brexit was, its much better to have people to remain connected to their employer until this moment passes, he added. This thing is moving fast, and after our meetings today with Leef (Labour Employer Economic Forum), Im sure that that mood will have changed. We just made the point in terms of communication, that this was time-bound, not something in perpetuity. Lets have workers on short-time working. Asked whether he is getting warnings from Ibec members that they will be forced to put workers on short-time work, he added: Warnings would be too strong a word, its just the reality of the market. If your demand is likely to dry up, you have an excess supply, both of the product and workers. He also warned that pharma firms will not be exempt from tariffs, despite being left off Mr Trumps initial tariff plan. I think the genie is out of the bottle. President Trump has started something that he might not be able to control that involves the rest of the world as well, he continued. The first thing is to hope that we can get to a negotiation point. Its hard to know in the unpredictability of President Trump but where the checks and balances come on the US side, we will all be waiting. He said the impact will also be felt by consumers and industries in the United States. This is a new world order. And as I said before, America started something that it thinks it might be able to control but it clearly cant, he added. Asked whether the Taoiseach Micheal Martin appeared agreeable to the introduction of job and business supports, Mr McCoy said: I think the Taoiseachs response was that this may be different to Brexit and Covid, that we need a structural change in the economy. I agree with that. But the only distinction there was the thing that was missing, we were talking about time-bound. Its not things permanently in place, because in this new world order, we will have to change. Pat Rigney, founder of The Shed Distillery in Drumshanbo, believes that the government will need to provide support to businesses in the aftermath of the U.S. tariff announcement. U.S. President Donald Trump, fueled by a belief that America has been ripped off by the pathetic European Union, announced that the U.S. will impose a 20% tariff on all imports from the trading bloc on Wednesday. Tariffs are taxes imposed by a government on imports from another country. They are typically paid by importers and are intended to discourage the purchase of foreign goods, protecting domestic industries. 20% is challenging for everybody I think businesses will need support, said Rigney, whose Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin is fourth in the U.S. market for premium gins. I would like the European Union to find a way of getting us back to zero/zero and not escalate it the wrong way, said Rigney, who has previously been critical of the European Union for bringing the drinks industry into the trade dispute with the U.S. last month. Irish exports to the United States were over 70 billion in 2024, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade. A 20% tariff on exports to the U.S. market could have huge implications for native businesses in Ireland. The Americans usually do things in a very classy way; they do things in a very good way, so this is very unusual, very different, he says. The challenge will be real, says Rigney, who does around a third of his trade in the U.S. He says that their business has faced challenges like the Covid-19 pandemic in the past. Now is the time to drive on and keep going. We started with no sales eight years ago in rural Ireland in a very remote area with an incredible team. We've built up a big business, a successful business. So, we have to have faith and belief We are just going to have to face up to the challenge, work closely with our importer, and work even harder to make sure we prevail. READ MORE: READ MORE: Beware of scams when selling your phone, Leitrim Gardai warn The 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting got underway at the Gulustan Palace in Baku. According to Azernews, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, is attending the event. The road leading to the Thinkers Village Guest House is vital for our community, and we are prepared to do everything necessary to facilitate its smooth rehabilitation, Bailey stated. "We cannot depend on external aid forever. Its time to mobilize resources within our country," Selma stated. He noted that despite Liberias commitments to the WASH sector, funding remains inadequate, and corruption continues to hinder progress. Former First Lady Nancy B. Doe (left) rejects Senator Pennues (far right) role in the official Reburial Committee sanctioned by President Boakai (center). TWO women in their 20s have been given suspended sentences for their part in a Revolut scam, which saw a doctor lose 11,000. Courtney Fitzpatrick, aged 26, of Yeats Avenue, Kincora Park, Limerick city, and Leah York, aged 22, of Ashfield, Mullingar, County Westmeath, were before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Monday, where they pleaded guilty to money laundering on September 3, 2023, by possessing the proceeds of crime. Detective Garda John Sheedy told the court that a doctor received a call that afternoon from an unknown person purporting to be an agent from Revolut. The caller told her that her account had been compromised, and requested access to her app. He told her that her account and card had been frozen. A number of transactions were then carried out on her account, with 5,500 being transferred to Ms Yorks account and 5,500 to Ms Fitzpatricks account. The money was subsequently transferred into a cryptocurrency account. The women were identified and interviewed by gardai. Neither wished to name the man who was using their account numbers, and Det Garda Sheedy accepted that this was due to fear. He also said the women had co-operated with the investigation. Ms Fitzpatricks counsel said that she had not had an easy life, and would present as vulnerable and naive. I think youd want to be very, very naive to allow your account to be used by a third party and not know there was something illicit going on, remarked the judge. These two young ladies co-operated with somebody who has made a lot of money, he said. What these criminals needed were bank accounts to launder the money. READ MORE: Scarred for life by barber's cut throat razor in Limerick town He said they had given their details and allowed these people to get away Scot-free. Its rather tiring dealing with stupid young people, he said. They were stupid. To some degree, they were used. However, he said that they knew what was happening was criminal. He imposed a one-year sentence on each woman, but suspended their sentences on condition that each offers 1,500 to the injured party within nine months. This is to punish these two young ladies somewhat, and to remind them not to be stupid and so gullible, he said. The doctor has lost 11,000, and Ive no doubt that doctor worked very hard for that money, he added. Both women wiped their eyes as they entered their bonds. A LIMERICK mother has made a heartfelt plea for a policy change for children undergoing kidney dialysis. Donna Leo is from Garryowen and her five-year-old daughter, Harmony Tully, was born with chronic kidney disease. Harmony has to travel to Dublin three times a week to get her lifesaving dialysis treatment. As Harmony is a young child, she cannot receive her dialysis treatment in Limerick as they only treat adults in the renal unit at the University Hospital Limerick (UHL). The paediatric dialysis service is only available in Dublin, where they treat children from across the country. This means Harmony takes turns going with her mother Donna, her father Jonathan or Donnas mother Lorraine, to St Michaels C Ward in Temple St Childrens Hospital every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Two years ago, we started doing dialysis at home as she got a PD catheter in her belly, said Donna about her daughter Harmony. READ ALSO: Debut exhibition marks monumental moment for Limerick artist We did that for a year and then, last January, a transplant date came up for her to get both kidneys removed in March. She has no kidneys at the moment. She had to go on hemodialysis, which we thought could be done in Limerick because they have the machine there for adults but no, she has to travel to Temple Street three times a week. We have to get her up at 5am and she goes in the HSE taxi to Dublin. Its not fair on her, what she has to go through on her dialysis days. She is so strong and she doesnt leave it get her down, but she is missing out on school and so much. Harmony attends Tall Trees childcare facility in Singland, Limerick city, twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. She also has two five-month-old siblings, which her mother Donna minds most days while Harmony undergoes dialysis to filter her blood. Harmonys father Jonathan is going to be her donor this May, all going well, and she will be undergoing a vital transplant to get one of her fathers organs. It is a very high-risk surgery for Harmony as she has complications with her bladder as well, Donna said. She is such an inspiration for everything she goes through. She wont go to Kidstown (a kids play centre in Corbally) and go down the slide because of her dialysis line, which is the only thing keeping her alive, because she is protecting it. No kid should have the worries that she has. She has been operated on since day one of her life and has had so many surgeries. Its not fair she has to make those trips to Dublin every week. It is heartbreaking. HSE Mid-West responded to a request for comment by Limerick Live, saying: HSE Mid-West is unable to comment on individual cases as we are obliged to protect our patients confidentiality. University Hospital Limerick provides dialysis services for adults only. The Renal Unit (in CHI) Temple Street, Dublin, is the only paediatric dialysis unit in Ireland. THE HSE must immediately take measures to retain staff at University Hospital Limerick said Mayor John Moran. The call from Limericks first citizen comes as the new Bon Secours Hospital in Ballysimon begins recruiting key staff. A major recruitment drive was announced last week by the state-of-the-art private hospital to double its workforce and expand healthcare services in the Mid-West. Mayor Moran said UHL is already chronically understaffed. We have the worst record for overcrowding in the country. Now, Bon Secours is recruiting for their new private hospital and I am very concerned that many of UHLs best and most experienced personnel will be tempted to apply for jobs there. This is a crisis waiting to happen. If the HSE takes the passive, Ah sure lets wait-and-see approach, UHL will be left with even fewer staff, said Mayor Moran. READ MORE: 'They really are heroes!' - Amazing young people honoured by Limerick gardai He called on the HSE to take proactive measures to incentivise and retain staff at UHL. This must happen immediately, not as part of an independent report after a tragedy has occurred. Limerick has waited long enough, said Mayor Moran, whose Mayoral Programme contains a significant section on health entitled, A More Healthy Limerick. I am committed to addressing the healthcare challenges, even those that fall outside the official scope of the mayors powers, he wrote. Limerick will see some additional capacity with the introduction of private hospital facilities, the Mayoral Programme states. However, this solution carries the risk of deepening the inequality of treatment and access to healthcare services. HSE Mid-West was asked for comment. There no response at the time of publication. Only half of fathers avail of paternity leave and a quarter of men take parents leave compared with two-thirds of mothers, research has revealed. The report from the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) and the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) found that while the recent introduction of paternity leave and parents leave in Ireland has been positive, the take-up rates of the benefits remain low. The report also calls for structural inequality between women and men to be addressed, saying that Ireland must find a new relationship between paid employment, care work and gender roles. The report, entitled Child Related Leave: Usage and Implications for Gender Equality, examines the usage of child-related leave benefits in Ireland and their implications for gender equality in the workplace. It found that despite rising female participation rates in Ireland, a significant gender income gap persists, primarily driven by lower female participation rates and a higher incidence of part-time employment. It said that the gap often starts after the birth of a child and continues throughout a womans lifetime. Using a 10% sample of all births between 2019 and 2022, the report analyses the characteristics linked with the take-up of paternity and parents benefit, as well as the duration of paid and unpaid maternity leave. The findings reveal that higher paid fathers, who are more likely to receive employer top-ups, were more likely to avail of paternity leave. Take-up was also higher for those working in larger companies where a replacement might be more readily available. The report also explores societal norms and workplace attitudes towards child-related leave. A survey experiment found high levels of support for ensuring that fathers have 100% of their earnings covered while on leave and for ring-fencing part of child-related leave for fathers only. The report suggests ways to improve the take-up of child-related leave benefits and promote gender equality. The report found that relying on employers to top up parents incomes results in a large variation in how much of pre-birth earnings are covered during leave as top-ups vary significantly across different employers. It also said that promoting awareness of leave entitlements among parents, particularly fathers, would increase take-up rates. It further called for workplace norms and attitudes that may discourage fathers from taking leave to be addressed. The report said that promoting awareness of leave entitlements among parents, particularly fathers, to increase take-up rates, as well as addressing workplace norms and attitudes that may discourage fathers from taking leave. Liam Herrick, chief commissioner of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, said: The fact that women do far more care and care work, paid and unpaid, than men plays a significant part in womens lower economic status in Ireland. To address persistent, structural inequality between women and men, Ireland must find a new relationship between paid employment, care work and gender roles. This report robustly demonstrates the need for effective and gender equitable child-related leave schemes, and where policy efforts should be focused to greatest effect. Co-author of the report Dr Claire Keane said: This report underscores the importance of child-related leave policies in addressing gender inequalities in the workplace. By implementing the recommended policy changes, Ireland can make significant strides towards achieving greater gender equality and supporting both mothers and fathers in balancing work and family responsibilities. A NEWLY established citizens' parliament has convened in Limerick for the first time. Twenty people from across the city and county took part in the first session of the National Citizens Parliament on media and democracy. There are similar assemblies meeting across Europe as part of this project, but Ireland is one of only two countries where the parliament will not meet in the capital city, with Limerick chosen as an alternative. READ MORE: High fire risk warning issued for Limerick Mary Immaculate College played host to the first meeting of the parliament, with its members recruited following a campaign in this newspaper and other media across the city and county. The members will be sitting across the next few weekends to debate and deliberate on the future of media and democracy both in Ireland and across the world. The aim of the parliament is to find ways of future proofing media for the protection and support of democracy. Each sitting of the parliament will begin with an address by members of the media, academics and activists to get a clear understanding of the problems and dangers we face in these times. Then discussions will begin on the afternoon of each sitting. By the end of each day, the citizens formulate resolutions which will be voted on - and these will be presented to all levels of government from Limericks local authority right up to the European Parliament. Indeed, two of the citizens will join representatives of the other national citizens parliaments in Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany and Slovenia to present their resolutions to MEPs and members of the EU Commission in Brussels next spring. At the first session in Limerick, Denis Wolinski, a former broadcast regulator with Britains media watchdog, Ofcom, and its Irish equivalent the BAI, addressed the parliament. He spoke about democracy - how it works and how it often doesnt work. He was followed by Dr Fergal Quinn of University of Limerick who talked about the importance of journalism in protecting democracy and the public interest. He also outlined the need for protection of journalists and the difficulties and even threats that they face today. Then the citizens got down to business and sorted out the work that they need to do for the rest of the life of the parliament in order to formulate and vote on their resolutions. Local politicians and members of the press will meet the parliament this Saturday. New Delhi: Lava, the homegrown smartphone and accessories brand, is in talks with investors to raise up to 500 crore ($58 million) in the coming months before pursuing a public listing, a senior company executive said, as the company looks to ramp up its presence in the country. Sunil Raina, executive director at Lava International, did not disclose the valuation for its current funding effort but referred to an earlier attempt. During our listing attempt in September 2021, bankers had assigned us a 14,000 crore ($1.7 billion) valuation," he said. He also declined to reveal the likely valuation or a timeline for re-filing its public listing papers. An initial public offering (IPO) will be a strategic move that we will consider only when we build up a certain scale," Raina said. To do that, we will invest additional funds into marketing and increase our presence across more markets with both online and offline retailers." Also read | Lava charts fresh listing plans Lava is looking to raise funds for expansion when its overall market share and yearly sales have remained muted despite the governments push for local manufacturing across sectors. Data sourced by Mint from Counterpoint, as well as estimates shared by Raina, indicated that Lava sold approximately 1.5 million smartphones in 2024. In the fiscal through March 2024, Lava Internationals consolidated revenue tumbled 25% on-year to 3,646 crore ($426 million), and a net operating profit slumped 85% to 11.6 crore ($1.4 million). The company also faced setbacks. In October 2023, its erstwhile managing director Hari Om Rai was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering probe on Chinas BBK Electronics-backed electronics brand Vivo. In September 2021, Lavas plan to go public was halted as the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) asked the company to revise and file its paperswithout specifying what information was missing. FY25 has been better, Raina said. Lava is looking to raise funds for expansion when its overall market share and yearly sales have remained muted despite the governments push for local manufacturing across sectors. This year, we expect to report 10% annual growthboth in terms of device shipments and revenue. About 80% of our sales still come from offline channels, but well be ramping up marketing and outreach efforts this fiscal to reach out to a wider customer base," Raina said. Going forward in FY26, well also be investing in software research and development (R&D) to create intellectual properties (IPs)this is a key part of earning a bigger margin in the long run." Read this | Budget smartphones sell like hot cakes in tepid market There were setbacks, but since then, weve revised our board structure and realigned ourselves. We are a professionally run company, so there is no conflict with regard to how we function," Raina said. Lavas survival is important when the government seeks to present Indian electronics brands to the world and create higher value in the domestic electronics marketcurrently focused on low-cost, mass-scale assembling and repackaging of white-label devices brought from abroad. Lava is also the only surviving Indian smartphone brand that has moved past the China onslaught on the Indian market from a decade ago, which brought the likes of Xiaomi and Oppo to India. Analysts, however, have mixed views on Lava. A senior analyst at a top market research firm, who requested anonymity since it works closely with the company, said that Lavas target of achieving a 10% market share in the industry by 2030 is a tough, tough order to scale". The smartphone market is very stagnant in India, and industry stakeholders realize that Indias feature phone users may not necessarily be a customer base that would switch to smartphones imminently," the analyst said. In fact, it has been this way for a while. So, Lavas real growth will come from mostly returning usersbut any user buying their second smartphone or beyond always looks for a more premium device than a basic one priced below 10,000. But this is a very stagnant segmentwhere will such steep growth come from here?" Read this | Xiaomi India eyes increased localization, Apple-like ecosystem Data sourced from Counterpoint showed that Lava had a market share of 1% in India in 2024. Between 2022 and 2024, the domestic smartphone market expanded at a compounded annualized rate of 1.5% per annum. Raina projects Lava to reach a 10% market share by 2030. That would require a growth of nearly 60% per annum compared with the current pace of 10%. However, Tarun Pathak, research director at Counterpoint, believes there is potential for growth. While the projection is likely too high, offline retailers and customers alike do have good feedback on the brands revival. What Lava needs is a robust marketing campaign to shed its previous brand image and create a new one showcasing its potential to stand neck-and-neck against Samsung, Xiaomi and others." Between 2022 and 2024, the domestic smartphone market expanded at a compounded annualized rate of 1.5% per annum. According to Pathak, Lava's devices are offering good quality. But what is truly needed for Lava is a hooksuch as Samsungs premium play, Xiaomis camera focus, or Oppos reliability marketing strategy." And read | Very concerned about Lava MD Hari Om Rais arrest: Rajeev Chandrasekhar With its planned fundraise and expansion, Lava eyes a place in the big league. While a stagnant market threatens to play spoilsport, Lava is not focusing on smartphones alone to boost revenue and margins. We have our own assembly plants, which will only benefit from the Centres components scheme. This also gives us some margin advantage, and we can also manufacture for other brandsas we have done before with the likes of Nokia," Raina said. This can give us added revenue as a technology group. We are also looking to create our own IPs, starting with software design, and invest heavily in marketing to show customers the value of our brand." The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) on Friday rejected a plea by Busy Bee Airways, backed by EaseMyTrip co-founder Nishant Pitti, challenging the liquidation of bankrupt airline Go First. A bench led by NCLAT chairperson Justice Ashok Bhushan upheld the National Company Law Tribunals (NCLT) 20 January order, which allowed Go Firsts creditors to proceed with liquidation, citing the airlines lack of assets and an unviable recovery plan. Busy Bee Airways had argued that it was prepared to acquire Go First and submit a revival plan. It contended that the airline retained valuable intangible assets, including its Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) licence, which could facilitate its acquisition. The company also claimed that the NCLT passed the liquidation order without considering its objections. The order comes as a relief for Go Firsts creditors, allowing them to proceed with liquidation to recover dues totaling 6,521 crore. The appellate tribunal had earlier directed the liquidator to submit minutes of the Committee of Creditors (CoC) meeting that led to the decision to wind up the airline. Busy Bee, majority-owned by Pitti and linked to SpiceJet chairman Ajay Singh, had initially expressed interest in acquiring Go First but withdrew its bid after the airline lost operational aircraft. It later re-entered the process with an improved 1,800 crore offerup from 1,600 croreand raised its upfront payment proposal from 290 crore to 500 crore. Read this | Former SpiceJet pilots join bankruptcy chorus over 3 crore unpaid dues Another bid, from Sky One Airways led by Jaideep Mirchandani, was withdrawn after an April 2024 Delhi High Court order allowed lessors to repossess all 54 leased aircraft, effectively rendering Go First unviable. The NCLAT also dismissed a plea from Mumbai-based trade union Bhartiya Kamgar Sena, which opposed the liquidation on the grounds that nearly 5,000 employees would be left without recourse. The union urged the tribunal to keep the airline operational until arbitration proceedings with US-based engine supplier Pratt & Whitney concluded in Singapore. Go First owes 6,521 crore to a consortium of lenders, including Central Bank of India ( 1,987 crore), Bank of Baroda ( 1,430 crore), Deutsche Bank ( 1,320 crore), and IDBI Bank ( 58 crore). The Wadia Group-backed airline filed for voluntary insolvency in May 2023, blaming Pratt & Whitneys engine supply failures, which grounded much of its fleet. After a failed resolution process, the airline sought liquidation in September 2024. Also read | Jet Airways liquidation: Why India needs a new regime to save airlines Mumbai: NxtGen Datacentre and Cloud Technologies has appointed investment bank Avendus to raise $300 million at a valuation of nearly $900 million, two people familiar with the matter said. The company has been in the market for some time but has recently appointed Avendus for the fundraise," one of the people said, adding it has held talks with several investors. If the round goes as planned, it will be its largest to date," the second person said. NxtGen did not respond to a request for a comment, while Avendus declined to comment. Also read: Infra.Markets venture debt backers eye $30 mn secondary stake sale before IPO The company last raised $13.5 million in 2015 from investors including International Finance Corp., Axon Partners Group and Intel Capital as part of its series B funding round. It competes with companies such as Vantage Data Centers, Princeton Digital Group and Aligned, according to market intelligence provider Tracxn. NxtGen focusing on enabling businesses with scalable, secure, and cost-efficient infrastructure across public, private and industry clouds, the company's website states. PE firms bet big on data centers Several large private equity firms including Blackstone, Everstone and Brookfield have backed Indian data center companies either through joint ventures or direct investments. Blackstone launched a data center platform called Lumina CloudInfra and plans to invest more than $300 million in a Navi Mumbai hyperscale data center, while Reliance Industries entered the fast-growing segment last year in partnership with Canada's Brookfield. Also read: Weikfield Foods targets younger customers with ready-to-eat products; plans IPO In 2021, Everstone Group formed a joint venture partnership with Yondr Group, a global developer, owner-operator and service provider of hyperscale data centers, to deploy $1 billion to develop data centers in India. NxtGen's services are particularly crucial at a time when tech giants and geopolitical groups are leveraging data from emerging economies, raising concerns about dependence on foreign cloud infrastructure. According to the company, this has led to stricter privacy policies that emphasize data sovereignty, control and long-term governance. India's data center market Indias data center market is expected to grow to $10.09 billion by 2027 from $4.35 billion in 2021 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.07%, according to a CBRE report published in May 2024. The report highlighted that the burgeoning artificial intelligence industry is at the forefront of this growth as massive amounts of the data it generates requires more robust storage and processing capabilities. Over 90% of the new data is expected to be concentrated in major cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, CBRE said, adding that leading players are also exploring untapped markets such as Kochi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Patna and Visakhapatnam as they could fuel the next wave of data center growth. Also read: JetSynthesys part exits Nautilus Mobile post Krafton's 118 cr majority stake Last month, NxtGen outlined plans to deploy 12,000 GPUs by May as demand for AI computing continued to grow in India, according to a report by Businessworld. It currently has over 1,000 GPUs, including Nvidia L40S and H100 models. According to the report, the company's founder and chief executive officer AS Rajgopal estimated that the NxtGen will need a few billion dollars over the next three years and may also evaluate a public listing based on investor interest. It has over 400 employees and plans to hire more AI engineers to meet the demand. In FY23, the company reported consolidated revenue from operations of $24.9 million, up from $23 million a year earlier. It posted a loss of $10.6 million compared to $5.4 million in FY22, according to a report by Tracxn. BENGALURU : As more Indians, especially youngsters, become open to seeking counselling, mental health and wellness startups in the country are looking to set up brick-and-mortar centres to keep people from dropping out of therapy. Only a few people repeat online-only therapy sessions because the outcomes are not tangible, said Dipanjan Basu, co-founder and partner at consumer-focused venture capital firm Fireside Ventures. Like any other healthcare service, an in-person experience is crucial." Mental health support in India requires high-need clinical care with technology and physical infrastructure going hand in hand, added Amit Malik, founder and chief executive of Amaha Health. "Were available in eight locations right now and are gearing up to open our first mental health hospital in Bengaluru in May." The facility will provide in-patient care in line with services offered by single-specialty hospitals, he said. Amaha, which secured 50 crore in an extended Series A funding round led by Fireside Ventures in 2024, is gearing up to raise more capital in the second half of 2025. Waning investor interest The mental health sector, which once enjoyed high private investor interest because of the growing demand for teleconsultation during the pandemic years, appears to be losing favour. Mental health startups, a tiny part of the overall healthcare market, raised $8 million in 2024 compared to $41 million in 2022, according to data by market intelligence firm Venture Intelligence. To be sure, private equity and venture capital investors put in $3.7 billion in the healthcare sector in 2024, down marginally from $4.2 billion in 2022. Healthcare investments in the country hit a record high of $5.5 billion in 2023, according to the Bain India Private Equity Report 2024. Ongoing consolidation in multi-specialty and the emergence of scale assets with attractive business profiles in single-specialty were key factors," the report said. Also Read: Businesses must deal squarely with the harsh realities of mental health at the workplace Mental health and wellness continues to be among the under-penetrated areas in healthcare, given its novelty in the country. Hence, funding in the space remains low despite healthcare as a whole being fairly well-funded," said an investor at a healthcare-focused venture capital firm in India on the condition of anonymity. Emerging market Indias mental health market is projected to reach a valuation of $62.8 billion by 2032 from $6.8 billion in 2023 at a compound annual growth rate of 28.16%, according to estimates by market research firm Astute Analytica. For context, the overall healthcare market in the country reached $372 billion in 2023 and is poised to touch $638 billion by the end of 2025, according to a December 2024 study by Bajaj Finserv AMC. Lissun, a startup backed by RPSG Capital Ventures and Zerodhas Rainmatter, does nearly 8,000 consultations a month and is now doubling down on its support centres called Sunshine by Lissun, which provide physical care for children with special needs aged 2-10 years. These children need services such as developmental therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, as well as testing for autism and ADHD [attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome]. Parents of children with special needs are also becoming more aware of the importance of seeking help early," said Krishna Veer Singh, co-founder and chief executive of Lissum. Lissun bagged $2.5 million in pre-Series A round from RPSG Capital Ventures, Multiply Ventures, and Atrium Angels. Its current repeat rate is more than 60%, according to Singh. There are more than 550,000 children under the age of 14 with an intellectual disability in the country, excluding autism, according to a January 2023 analysis of the National Statistical Offices 2018 report on disability in India. About 0.5% of boys and 0.2% of girls, 10-14 years, were on the autism spectrum, found a 2017 study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Overall, as per the Census 2011, India has over 27 million children with disabilities, with only 61% of them having access to formal schooling. We believe that specialized care is the future of mental health solutions in the country. You have an app, a doctor, and a psychologist, but eventually, it is the platform and the brand that creates trust with the patient," said Firesides Basu. Scaling challenges While investors acknowledge that mental health support remains a major gap in Indias healthcare market, they are now giving much more thought to the prospects of scalability. Mental health is a tricky area because the definition of mental health itself is not very clear. Its hard to ascertain what would qualify as a mental health issue, and there is a lot of misinformation in the space," added Basu. Currently, over 200 million people in the country face mental health conditions, yet only 10-15% seek professional help, based on estimates in the National Mental Health Survey 2015-16. Moreover, there is still a lot of work to be done to draw consumers aged 40 or older, which presents a roadblock in the scaling journey of startups. Younger users are more aware, and its good, but they rarely believe in loyalty. And with a service like counselling, the lack of tangible results may not drive the user to repeat the service," said the healthcare investor quoted above. Having said that, there is scope for a wide range of services within the realm of mental health and wellness, such as meditation apps. Basu noted that a blend of physical delivery and online consultations is the way to go, as it has shown signs of success in allied healthcare fields such as IVF and hair transplantation. Technology can solve the problem of access and reach, especially outside the metro cities, but deeper penetration will only be possible with an in-clinic and hospital play, said Amahas Malik. Preventative healthcare in India has faced its fair share of challenges. Health insurance policies exclude preventative care, and patients' hesitation to adopt digital tools has led to a shift to reactive care. Mental health is preventative care, and it is only now picking up in the country. Its hard to say how much it can scale," added the healthcare investor. Nothing is more American than the pickup truck. One big reason why: the chicken tax." The U.S. has imposed a 25% tariff on imported trucks ever since President Lyndon Johnson hit back at European levies on American poultry in 1963, less than two weeks after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. As the Trump administration pursues a barrage of new tariffs, the longstanding tax on pickup trucks bears witness to the power of high duties to reshape global trade, competition and industry over decades, with effects far exceeding their original purpose. Like todays tensions, the dispute that became known as the chicken war" was punctuated by worries about the trade deficit, accusations of protectionism and threats to cut Europe loose from Americas defense umbrella. Back then, though, Washington favored lower import duties and imposed the chicken tax only after more than a year of fruitless diplomacy. Johnsons trade representative emphasized that the tariff increases werent necessarily permanent and could be canceled" as soon as Europe cut its poultry levies, The Wall Street Journal reported at the time. President Lyndon Johnson imposed the tariff in 1963. Since becoming president, Donald Trump has introduced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum, a 25% tax on many goods imported from Mexico and Canada and an additional 20% duty on Chinese products. He has said he would give details of further wide-ranging tariffs, including a potential 25% levy on all light-vehicle imports, on April 2. Some lessons from the 1960s auto tariff are consistent with the current White Houses America-first agenda, others less so. Thanks in large part to the chicken tax, virtually all pickup trucks sold in the U.S. are built in North America, and most of them by American brands. General Motors, Ford and RAM owner Stellantis sold 80% of all light trucks in the U.S. last year. (Ad campaigns in the decades since have helped cement American brand loyalty among truck buyers.) By contrast, overseas products and brands play a major role in the broader auto market, where imports are subject to a 2.5% tariff. Roughly four million cars and sport-utility vehicles were shipped from Europe, Asia and elsewhere last year, accounting for almost a quarter of domestic sales. But almost nobody pays the chicken tax. While President Trump has touted tariffs as a way to fund other tax cuts, the more they successfully encourage local production, the less money they raise directly for the federal government. Imports of motor vehicles for the transport of goods"the customs category that includes pickup trucks and is mostly subject to the 25% tarifftriggered estimated duties of just $104 million last year, according to official data. Imports of passenger vehicles, taxed at 2.5%, were expected to raise $3.6 billion. A 25% rate gives companies strong incentives to find workarounds, and the chicken tax has a colorful history of companies engaging in so-called tariff engineering to avoid it. Subaru imported a small pickup in the 1980s called the Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter, or BRAT. But it wasnt a taxable truck, because it had two seats bolted to the open bed, facing backward. Mercedes-Benz used to make Sprinter vans for the U.S. market in Germany, and then partially disassemble them to be shipped to South Carolina, where they were rebuilt locally. In 2018, with Sprinter sales growing healthily, the company expanded its South Carolina factory to handle the full final assembly process. Even U.S. companies, the apparent beneficiaries of the tariff, have sought to avoid it. Ford used to import its Transit Connect model from Turkey with seats in the back that were removed when it passed customs, transforming what the company called a passenger wagon" into a cargo van. In 2013, U.S. Customs and Border Protection ruled that Ford should be paying the chicken tax, leading to a yearslong legal dispute that was finally settled in 2024. The company agreed to pay $365 million to resolve Justice Department allegations of tax evasion, without admitting liability. Mexico and Canada have offered a legal route around the chicken tax since the North American Free Trade Agreement went live in 1994, and some pickup trucks sold in the U.S. are now assembled across the border, albeit with many U.S. parts. President Trump has cast doubt on this arrangement, though, recently introducing a 25% tariff on almost all goods shipped from the countries before giving a one-month reprieve to those that comply with free-trade-area requirements. A Ford factory near Detroit. Most economists hate tariffs because protected markets are often associated with high consumer prices and limited choice, competition and innovation. The history of the chicken tax bears out some of these criticisms, but not all. Americans likely have less choice of pickup trucks than they otherwise would, particularly in the midsize segment that is also popular abroad. Kia recently launched its first-ever pickup truck, the Tasman, but has no plans to sell it in the U.S. Mitsubishi doesnt sell a pickup in the U.S. despite being a big competitor in the segment elsewhere. For cars and sport-utility vehicles, Asian manufacturers entered the U.S. by shipping models from home in small quantities to test the market. They then invested in local production after attracting a critical mass of consumers. With trucks, the chicken tax led companies to adopt an all-or-nothing approach. Only the largest brands, such as Toyota, took the plunge. But analysts debate whether Americans are really missing out, given how fiercely the Detroit brands compete with each other in the lucrative pickup segment. Despite complaints about the high price of trucks in the U.S., like for like they are often more expensive abroad. A 2025 Ford Ranger XL, which starts at roughly $33,000 in the U.S., is priced at the equivalent of around $34,000 in Australia and $37,000 in the U.K. As for innovation, Teslas Cybertruck and Rivians R1T have brought cutting-edge technology to the U.S. truck market in recent years. Even Volkswagen, whose 1950s-era minivans and pickup trucks were the original target of the chicken tax, plans to return to the market with a locally manufactured electric pickup under the historic Scout brand. Last year it started building a $2 billion factory in South Carolina, with deliveries slated to start in 2027. On the surface it seems like its a protected place," said Tyson Jominy, vice president of data and analytics at J.D. Power. But the reality under the surface is that there has been a lot of product development and activity flowing into the pickup-truck space." The trade dispute that triggered the chicken tax started in the summer of 1962, when the creation of Europes Common Agricultural Policy triggered an increase in West German tariffs on poultry. Shipments from U.S. farmers to West Germany, which had been booming, fell by more than half in the first six months of 1963. Then as now, trade conflict was allied with concerns that the U.S. was spending too much on European security. U.S. senators told a German minister that they didnt see any reason why they should leave their soldiers in Germany if the country didnt buy their chickens," then-West German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer recalled in his memoirs. The eventual U.S. response was deliberately narrow, covering the equivalent of just $300 million of goods in todays money, including brandy and potato starch as well as goods vehicles. Yet it ended up having a decisive impact on Detroit, which gradually retreated into the profitable truck niche as Asian brands grew in the wider market and gasoline prices fell in the 1980s and 90s. While that refuge was helpful at first, it meant Detroit avoided the tough task of matching the competitiveness of Asian manufacturers in smaller vehicles, according to Nick Colas, co-founder of DataTrek Research and a former autos analyst. The lesson for today? Even something that seems kind of trivial can have very long-lasting effects," Colas said. It can be good, it can be bad, it can be good first and bad later. We just dont know." The chicken tax had a decisive impact on the fortunes of Ford and other Detroit automakers. Just a day after Donald Trump's tariff bombs hit China, India, other countries, and sent Asian stocks tumbling, the POTUS declared that the US was open to reducing the tariffs if other nations were able to offer something phenomenal. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, however, told CNN that there isn't any chance that President Donald Trump is gonna back off on tariffs. On Thursday, April 3, Donald Trump indicated that the White House was open to negotiations on tariffs despite the insistence of some top officials, reported Bloomberg. Trump had also mentioned that he spent the day speaking with parties requesting tariff relief. What can countries do about tariffs? Lutnick clearly declared that there was no way Trump would back off on the tariffs. When asked if there was any room for negotiation, the US Commerce Secretary reiterated his previous statement, and added: But countries can fix their tariffs, their non-tariff trade barriers which are much much rougher. Trump hints at negotiations Reportedly, Trump had reiterated that he would particulary be willing to offer tariff relief for China if Beijing approved the sale of the US operations of ByteDance Ltd.s TikTok social video app. TikTok is currently facing a April 5, Saturday deadline for divestment, unless Trump offers an extension as part of his efforts to broker a deal. Donald Trump also added that he held talks with automotive industry executives on Thursday, as well as with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who he indicated might visit the US next week, reported Bloomberg. Donald Trump's tariff tantrums On Wednesday, April 2, Donald Trump unveiled broad reciprocal tariff targeting the trade partners of US. A part of Donald Trump's tariff list Dubbed Liberation Day announcements, the measures did not include any country-specific exemptions. Trump introduced new tariff rates for over 180 countries and also announced a standard 10 percent baseline tariff in addition to the country-specific rates. What are the tariff rates for India Donald Trump announced a 27 per cent reciprocal tariff on Indiahalf the rate India imposes on US imports. He also announced a 25 per cent tariff on automobile imports to the country. The resolution seeking exemption for Tamil Nadu from the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) has been declined by the President, Chief Minister MK Stalin told the Assembly on Friday. Nevertheless, the state would continue its struggle to abolish the NEET, he said and announced that an all-political party meeting has been convened on April 9, in this regard, according to a PTI report. CM MK Stalin informed the House on the latest development by terming the rejection as a dark chapter in federalism, and accused the Centre of disregarding the will of Tamil Nadu people and the Assembly bill, too. "Despite the Tamil Nadu government furnishing all necessary clarifications through various ministries, the Union government has now rejected the exemption from NEET," Stalin said. What was the resolution The Tamil Nadu Assembly had unanimously passed a resolution opposing the NEET in August last year. The resolution urged the central government to repeal NEET and restore the previous practice of medical admissions based on class 12 marks, followed before the implementation of NEET. Several regional parties, including the Communist Party of India (Marxist), Manithaneya Makkal Katchi, Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, had supported the resolution. DMK MP K Kanimozhi had reiterated the call to "exempt" Tamil Nadu from NEET, the medical admission exam conducted nationwide by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Why is Tamil Nadu opposing NEET Tamil Nadu has opposed the NEET since it was made compulsory in 2017. The test was alleged to be inimical to the interests of its state board students since it was conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) between 2013 and 2018. The NTA then took over in 2019. In 2021, the states government appointed a committee under the chairmanship of a retired high court judge, Justice AK Rajan, to study the impact of NEET on medical admissions in Tamil Nadu. The 165-page report invoked social justice and protection of vulnerable student communities from discrimination in medical college admissions and cited social accountability and professional ethics as part of the Hippocratic Oath of physicians. It linked medical education to social accountability and called for more diversity in the medical student base. Student suicides linked to NEET A 21-year-old student preparing for the NEET allegedly died by suicide on March 28, near Chennai in Tamil Nadu, due to fear of underperforming in the medical entrance exam, police said on Saturday. The NEET aspirant, Devadharshini, was reportedly under extreme stress as she had failed the entrance exam three times earlier. The exam is scheduled for May 4. According to the AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, as many as 19 students have allegedly died by suicide between September 2021 and March 2025 due to fears over clearing NEET. Monthly transactions touched a high of 18 billion in March 2025 amounting to transactions worth 25 trillionup 36% on-year in terms of volume and 25% in value. A back-of-the-envelope calculation shows this volume of transactions means that around 350,000 UPI transactions were processed every minute in FY25. Stellar show To put things in context of other popular payment platforms operating in the country, the Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) platform processed 0.3 billion transactions worth 2,014 trillion in FY25; the National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) platform processed 9.6 billion transactions worth 443.6 trillion; and the Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) platform processed 5.6 billion transactions amounting to 71.4 trillion, as per RBI data compiled by Mint. Read more: SBI seeks fintech partners to help customers print their own debit cards As of February 2025, there were at least 68 live UPI applications operating in the country, as per data by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), which runs UPI. PhonePe continued to lead both in terms of the value and volume of transactions, followed by Google Pay and Paytm. Cred and Amazon Pay were the two others in the top five. The numbers have been steadily increasing for UPI. In the previous financial year, the UPI platform had processed a total of 131 billion transactions worth 200 trillion. In calendar year 2024, too, UPI had processed 172 billion transactions worth 247 trillion, up from 118 billion transactions worth 183 trillion in 2023. "With daily transactions averaging 79,903 crore in March 2025, up 1.9% from February, and volumes rising 2.6%, these numbers underscore the rapid adoption and trust in digital financial solutions. This sustained growth signals deeper financial inclusion, enhanced consumer confidence, and a thriving digital economy," said Dilip Modi, founder and chief executive officer of rural payments focussed fintech platform Spice Money. However, the volume and value of transactions for FY25 fell short of the governments target. While announcing the UPI subsidy of 1,500 for FY25, the government had said it aimed to push financial inclusion through a target of 200 billion transactions by the end of the financial year. UPI payments are currently free of cost for users, with the government terming the platform a public good. The government and NPCI compensate payment ecosystem players for the cost incurred by them to process UPI transactions. Last month, the Union Cabinet approved an incentive scheme for UPI transactions for FY25, where it estimated an outlay of 1,500 crore for incentivizing low-value peer-to-merchant (P2M) UPI transactions of upto 2,000 for small merchants. However, this outlay was lower than 3,631 crore in FY24 and 2,210 crore in FY23. As per the scheme for FY25, small merchants accepting UPI payments will receive an incentive of 0.15% per transaction made between April 2024 and March 2025. Zero Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for transactions across all categories will continue, ensuring free digital transactions. Read more: UPI ends 2024 on a high; industry bats for more incentives, monetisation to support growth Further, 80% of the amount claimed by acquiring banks will be disbursed without conditions each quarter. Another 10% will be released if banks maintain technical declinethe number of failed transactions due to technical issues on the platformat below 0.75%. The remaining 10% will be released if the system uptimethe availability of the system processing the transactionsis above 99.5%. The government also guided that the scheme would continue into FY26. The reduced outlay for FY25 has brought to the forefront conversations about the rising burden of bearing the cost of free UPI transactions and the need to introduce a tiered fee structure for at least higher value transactions. Some believe that increasing reliance on UPI transactions is fostering comfort with digital financial transactions and government support is needed to continue to support financial inclusion. As millions of Indians increasingly rely on UPI for transactions ranging from daily essentials to significant purchases, this trust is fostering comfort with digital financial services more broadly. This growing confidence is critical as it creates pathways for previously excluded populations to access formal financial systems," said Deepak Verma, managing director and chief executive of consumer-facing payments platform Findi, adding that India must continue building a comprehensive ecosystem that addresses diverse needs. However, other industry experts said that the governments move indicates it is no longer a question of whether UPI transactions should be chargeable but about how and when to introduce these charges. Industry body Payments Council of India (PCI) recently wrote to the Prime Ministers Office, urging the government to reconsider MDR on UPI and RuPay debit card transactionsboth of which have been exempt since 2020. MDR is the fees charged to merchants by banks or payment service providers for processing digital transactions, typically calculated as a percentage of the transaction value. The industry body submitted that the 1,500 crore allocated for UPI incentives accounts for only 0.02% of the total UPI transaction value of 245 trillion in 2024, whereas the annual cost of maintaining, strengthening and expanding the UPI ecosystem is estimated to be around 10,000 crore. PCI is only suggesting an MDR on UPI for large merchants, specifically those with a turnover of over 50 lakh. They are not proposing any MDR for smaller merchants, which account for the majority of UPI QRs. It is unlikely to have a significant impact because, for large merchants, when they accept digital transactions via cards, they are already paying an MDR and therefore, they will simply pay an MDR on UPI as well," Sunil Rongala, Senior VP Strategy, Innovation & Analytics India, Worldline told Mint. The MDR on UPI will still be lower than the MDR on cards, and thus it will remain economical for large stores or companies to continue to accept UPI, he said, adding that he does not "foresee any meaningful reduction in UPI usage in terms of both volumes and value" due to the introduction of any minimal charges. Market dominance UPI continues to be the most popular real-time payments platform in India, estimated to account for nearly 80% of all digital payments in the country. A 2 April Digital Payments Report by Worldline India showed that peer-to-peer (P2P) UPI transactions grew 30% to 35 billion in the second half of calendar year 2024, with their value rising 26% to 94 trillion. During the same period, the volume of P2M transactions grew 50% to 39 billion and the value grew 43% to 36 trillion. The number of UPI QR codes jumped 126% to 633.44 million, also reflecting growth in the UPI acceptance infrastructure. Read more: How cyber insurance protects you against financial frauds The focus on small value transactions--expected to account for almost 90% of all UPI transactions, comes amid a decline in the average ticket size of UPI transactions. The average ticket size of UPI transactions fell 8% on year to 1,396 in H2 2024 from 1,515 in the year ago period. For P2P transactions, the ticket size fell 3% to 2,666 whereas for P2M transactions by 4.7% to 626. This fall in P2M ATS is a trend that has been continuing for some time now indicating how UPI is the primary choice for micro transactions indicating its long-term sustainability," the Worldline report said. Indian hotel operators have run into high valuations and a lack of quality assets as they seek to expand in a market hungry for luxury travel. They have turned creative to overcome these hurdles by acquiring properties that can be redeveloped or repurposing office buildings into hotels and even incorporating apartments into their projects. Good assets are few and far between, according to Sanjay Sethi, managing director and chief executive officer at listed hotel ownership company Chalet Hotels Ltd. On the M&A side, we focus on such assets with development or upside potential of expanding rooms or repositioning them to make them better." Chalet will look to build more rooms in some of its upcoming acquired hotels. Indian Hotels Company Ltds Taj, which is building its Bandstand Hotels (erstwhile Sea Rock Hotel), will have a section of about 85 apartments to monetize the property immediately. Samhi Hotels Ltd plans to convert an existing office building into a hotel in Hyderabad. ITC Hotels Ltd also has an apartment complex at its Colombo, Sri Lanka property. Dusit International signed a property in Bagepalli, Karnataka--under its 'Dusit Princess' brand--with villas, a hotel for senior living, a clubhouse and some retail stores over 80 acres. It will build hotels and villas in Raipur, too, while its Bhiwadi, Rajasthan property will offer hotel and clubhouse facilities. Hotel deals momentum is expected to persist this year. Real estate consultant JLL projects a total transaction value of $330 million (about 2800 crore) in 2025, similar to last years. This estimate could be conservative as the potential sale of newer hotel land parcels can further boost the overall figure," said Jaideep Dang, managing director, hotels & hospitality group at the firm. The past few months saw some large transactions. JLL facilitated the sale of Holiday Inn in Mumbai in September 2024 at a valuation of 450 crore ($55 million). In October, Bengaluru also saw two hotel acquisitions in a day as SAMHI and Juniper secured deals worth 485 crore. SAMHI sold a Chennai hotel it owned to GreenPark Hotels and Resorts for 53.5 crore in February this year. Chalet purchased The Westin Himalayas in Rishikesh for 530 crore. Hotel transactions in India remain largely fragmented, making it difficult to quantify annual deal activity but 2024 witnessed a surge in transactions, resulting in some landmark deals, according to Megha Tuli, partner and co-founder at hospitality consultant Hotelivate. Transaction volumes in 2025 are expected to reflect a similar trend, with buyer interest continuing to outpace available supply," she said. But the imbalance is likely to stabilise over the next couple of years as the sector evolves and pricing expectations align more closely with market realities." Valuation mismatch Investor interest in acquiring properties is surging even as listed hotel companies reach record-high valuations. Hotel companies continue to prioritise acquiring assets in tier 1 cities or established, branded hotels in other promising locations," said Tuli. However, while assets are available, their valuations are exceeding what many buyers consider justifiable." Assets up for grabs are scarce too. India has about 150-odd hotels with large room inventories of about 300 or more. Most of them are owned by bigger companies like ITC, Taj, Oberoi, Chalet, Hyatt and others, which are not in the market to sell their assets. Also Read: The Godfather maker makes a premium run with craft gin and single malts It would be impossible to buy such hotels since they'd be too expensive and won't give a 10-12% return to the buyers. So we're focused on assets which we can make changes to and solve for our own yield," said Ashish Jakhanwala, chairman, managing director and chief executive of Samhi Hotels. The Gurugram-based company is in the process of converting the Hydrerabad office building into a 175-room hotel, a first of its kind in a business park, Hytech City. "This shows we dont always need to rely on converting existing hotels into newer ones. It also creates incremental growth opportunities for us," Jakhanwala said, adding that the company is exploring or three more such projects. According to Sethi of Chalet, recent deals are valued at earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (Ebitda) multiple or what the asset would yield since there is room to grow or add rooms or create additional capacity. Some assets the company has bought in the recent past have had a 10-11 times Ebitda potential, he added. The multiple measures a company's valuation based on its operating income. JLL's Dang said this reflects hotels focus on mitigating risks around and efficiently work towards achieving better yields. Jehangir Aibara, director at hospitality consultant Mahajan & Aibara, also expects the deal activity to be similar to last year's. But he added that while some small to mid-sized hotel ownership companies are selling individual assets to fund other future investments, there is a mismatch with owners seeking higher-than-usual prices. Once these price expectations adjust in the short to mid term, the pace of transactions should pick up." New projects Still, many hotel businesses are considering developing their own assets. Last week, Juniper Hotels, which owns several Hyatt Hotels properties in India, signed an agreement with Assam Tourism Development Corporation to develop a five-star resort hotel in Kaziranga under a public-private partnership. The company, in its recent earnings call, said it will allocate 100 crore of capex over the next two to three years to develop the property. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts is developing its own assets, Anuraag Bhatnagar, chief executive officer at the company, said at a recent event in New Delhi. There is an opportunity for a land asset in Agra which the company owns." The company recently signed a long-term concession agreement to build a property in Srinagar. In the past, it announced new properties in Ayodhya, Sikkim, Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore, which would take its hotels to 20 in the next four to five years. House of Abhinandan Lodha has also earmarked 2,000 crore to build luxury hotels. ANAESTHETICS THAT dont put patients to sleep. Laxatives that fail to clear bowels. Blood-pressure medication with little effect. These are some of the problems that doctors have encountered in Chinas public hospitals. They have been speaking out in recent weeks, questioning the quality of the countrys drugs and urging reform of the governments procurement programme. The public has chimed in, too. Medicine that doesnt work, no matter how cheap, is useless," wrote one user of Weibo, a social-media platform. The government set up the procurement scheme in 2018 with the goal of lowering costs. Public hospitals had been negotiating individually with drug-makers; now there would be a central bidding system run by the National Health-Care Security Administration (NHSA). Because it was offering higher-volume contracts, the state insisted on better deals. (Public health-care institutions account for about 70% of drug sales in China.) It was hoped that foreign firms would compete with domestic drug manufacturers, driving down prices. At the same time, the space for kickbacks to doctors and hospitals would narrow. The plan worked in one important regard. To secure contracts, drug-makers have cut prices by as much as 95%. All but a small fraction of the drugs procured through the programme are generics made by Chinese firms, which have undercut their foreign counterparts. The government says that since 2018 the scheme has saved Chinas medical-insurance fund about 440bn yuan ($61bn)much-needed relief for a health-care system that must cope with an ageing population. The NHSA claims that 80% of those savings have been used to buy innovative drugs. Many Chinese credit the programme with making care more affordable. But the quality of the drugs bought under the programme has long been a concern. In 2021 the Shanghai Health Development Research Centre, a government think-tank, warned that smaller companies, facing pressure on margins, might adopt strategies that affect drug quality. Medical professionals have questioned whether firms cut corners to compete. Recently some doctors dug into the trials of generic drugs. They found that the data looked suspiciously similar to trials of the original versions. A unit of the state drugs regulator blamed editing errors". In January, 20 doctors who are part of an official advisory body in Shanghai called for better monitoring of domestic drugs and for patients to be allowed to get an original branded medication, even if it was not on the governments procurement list. Insurance reimbursements could be adjusted based on the drug selected, they wrote in their proposal, but doctors and patients should have a choice. Lu Changlin, a cardiologist at Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, has presented a similar plan in that city. The NHSA, for its part, has vowed to investigate the quality problems and hold firms accountable. The government has also made clear that there is no regulation banning the purchase or use of imported and branded drugs. At private clinics patients have a wider choice of medication. But most of the population relies on public hospitals and, therefore, Chinese-made generics. That makes many people nervous. One patient took to social media to air her concerns about anaesthetics and share her fear of an upcoming operation. Im so scared of waking up in the middle of it!" 2025, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com Intraday stocks for today under 100: Following US President Donald Trump's tariffs, the Indian stock market opened lower on Thursday. However, the Indian indices demonstrated remarkable resilience, quickly recouping most of their losses in the first half of the trading session. The Nifty 50 index ended 82 points lower at 23,250, the BSE Sensex shed 322 points and closed at 76,295, and the Bank Nifty index finished 249 points higher at 51,597. The NSE cash market volumes increased by 13% compared to the previous day. Sectorally, Pharma, Healthcare, and PSU Banks were the top performers, while IT, Auto, and Metals experienced the most significant losses. Mid and small-cap indices continued to outperform the broader market. The Nifty Midcap 100, despite opening lower, staged a strong recovery, closing 0.21% higher. The Nifty Small Cap 100 rebounded significantly from its intraday lows, finishing with a 0.58% gain. Market breadth remained positive for the third consecutive day, with the BSE advance-decline ratio at 2.40. Stock market today Speaking on the outlook for the Indian stock market today, Siddhartha Khemka, Head of ResearchWealth Management at Motilal Oswal, said, "With the major event now over, market focus will shift towards the RBI's monetary policy on 9th April and the Q4FY25 earnings season kicking off next week." On the outlook for the Nifty 50 today, Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities, said, "The Nifty opened lower following weak global cues but recovered immediately. Sentiment remains strong as the Indian market showed resilience despite weak global equity trends led by Trump's tariffs. Short-term support is placed at 23,100, and as long as the Nifty stays above this level, the trend will likely remain strong. It may move towards 23,430 on the higher end, and a decisive move above this level could trigger a stronger rally." Asked about the outlook of Bank Nifty today, Hrishikesh Yedve, AVP of Technical and Derivatives Research at Asit C. Mehta Investment Intermediates Ltd. (A Pantomath Group Company) said, "The Bank Nifty index opened with a gap down, witnessed buying interest, and concluded the day on a positive note at 51,597. Technically, Bank Nifty defended support of the 200-Day Simple Moving Average (200-DSMA), placed around 51,030, and formed a bullish candle on the daily chart, indicating strength. On the downside, major support for Bank Nifty is placed near the 51,030 and 50,640 levels, while 52,000 will act as a major hurdle for the index in the short term. Traders are advised to follow a "buy on dips" strategy as long as the index holds 50,640 levels." Intraday stocks for today under 100 Regarding buy or sell stocks for today, market experts Vaishali Parekh, Vice President Technical Research at Prabhudas Lilladher; Mahesh M Ojha, AVP Research at Hensex Securities; and Sugandha Sachdeva, Founder of SS WealthStreet recommended these five intraday stocks for today: IOB, NHPC, Confidence Petroleum India, Canara Bank, and NMDC Steel. Vaishali Parekh's stocks to buy under 100 1] IOB: Buy at 37, target 42, stop loss 35; 2] NHPC: Buy at 84.70, target 92, stop loss 80. Mahesh M Ojha's shares to buy under 100 3] Confidence Petroleum India: Buy at 52 to 53, targets 54.50, 56, and 58, stop loss 50.50; and 4] Canara Bank: Buy at 93 to 94, targets 96, 98, 100, and 102, stop loss 91. Sugandha Sachdeva's buy or sell stock 5] NMDC Steel: Sell at 36.40, target 33.70, stop loss 37.50. ITC Ltd is making a 3,498 crore bet on the future of India's paper industry by acquiring Century Pulp & Paper (CPP), the paper division of Aditya Birla Real Estate Ltd (ABREL). But for ABREL, this isnt just about selling a businessits about rewriting its identity. With this sale, ABREL is shedding a decades-old segment to cement itself as a pure-play real estate powerhouse. This isnt a routine acquisitionits a strategic pivot for both companies. ITC is strengthening its dominance in paper and sustainable packaging, while ABREL is exiting a cyclical business to go all-in on real estate, a sector where it sees stronger long-term growth. Read this | Aditya Birlas paper biz divestment amplifies focus on real estate Heres how the move reshapes both companies. ABRELs pivot to a pure real estate business ABREL operates in two segmentsreal estate and paper. While its paper business has been the primary revenue driver since 1984, contributing 3,375 crore (79%) of its 4,264 crore topline in FY24, it has been facing increasing headwinds. Weak domestic demand, competitive pricing, and rising input costs have weighed on performance, with revenue declining 6% in FY24 and another 5% in 9MFY25. Ebitda took an even bigger hit, plunging 57% in 9MFY25, while margins crashed from 14% to 6.4%. In contrast, real estatea relatively new segment for ABREL, started in 2016has been on a rapid growth trajectory. Despite contributing just 832 crore (20%) to the topline in FY24, the segment is expanding fast. Revenue surged 507% last year and another 375% year-on-year in 9MFY25 to 776 crore. Ebitda also rose 65%, though margins declined to 6.2% from 18%, reflecting the aggressive scale-up. With the paper business struggling and real estate gaining momentum, ABREL made the strategic decision to divest its legacy segment. While the paper business carried no long-term debt, ABRELs consolidated net debt has surged from 2,400 crore to 4,300 crore in the past year, pushing its net debt-to-equity ratio from 0.26 in FY23 to 1.06. This financial strain came as the company prepared for a major real estate project in Mumbais Worli, with an estimated gross development value of 6,100 crore. Read this | LG Indias IPO eyes a premium valuationwill investors bite? Selling the paper division provides ABREL with 3,498 crore in cash, easing its debt burden and providing ample capital to sustain growth. The company has an ongoing project pipeline with a revenue potential of 63,350 crore. This move aligns with ABRELs broader strategy of streamlining its portfolio to focus on high-growth businesses. Since 2019, the company has been systematically exiting low-growth segments, merging its cement business with UltraTech, demerging its yarn and denim division, and discontinuing its textiles operations. The final step came in 2024 when it rebranded from Century Textile to Aditya Birla Real Estate. With the latest divestment, ABREL is now a focused real estate company in a high-return segment, well-positioned for long-term success, according to Antique Stockbroking. ITC's paper business expansion For ITC, the deal is a game-changer. The acquisition includes the Century paper mill in Lalkuan, Uttarakhand, which has an annual capacity of 4.8 lakh metric tonnes per annum (MTPA). This expands ITCs total paper capacity by 60% to 12.8 lakh MTPA, cementing its leadership in the paper and sustainable packaging industry. Beyond capacity expansion, the deal enhances ITCs geographical reach. Until now, its paper production was concentrated in southern and eastern India. Acquiring Century Pulpan established player in northern Indiagives ITC a strong foothold in the region, improving market access and customer reach. Financially, the acquisition immediately boosts ITCs paper business revenue by 40% to 11,719 crore, up from 8,344 crore in FY24. This translates into a 5% increase in ITCs total gross revenue of 69,446 crore. With Ebitda margins in line with ITCs existing paper business, the deal is expected to be earnings accretive from year one. Read this | DLF's 1 trillion bet: Can the real estate major stay ahead of a cooling market? ITC is also eyeing efficiency gains. Through value unlocking and capacity debottlenecking, it aims for a 30-40% increase in Ebitda per tonne within two years. In the medium term, the company expects high-teen returns on capital employed from this investment. A bargain deal for ITC? The 3,498 crore transaction is valued at approximately one-time sales of Century Pulps FY24 revenue of 3,375 crore. This is in line with industry peers like JK Paper, which trades at a similar valuation. ITC is funding the acquisition internally, leveraging cash flows from its paper business, which generated 4,000 crore during FY20-24. This aligns with ITCs broader diversification strategy beyond its core cigarette business. On an EV/Ebitda basis, the deal is valued at 6.9x, comparable to JK Papers 6.3x. With the paper industry facing near-term headwinds, ITC may have secured the acquisition at a reasonable valuation. However, the success of the deal depends on a sectoral recovery. Like Century Pulp, ITCs paper business has been under pressure, with stagnant revenue and falling margins. The acquisition will be truly value-accretive once industry conditions improve. There are positive signs on the horizon. The sector is expecting anti-dumping measures that could curb imports, while raw material costsespecially wood pricesare projected to decline in the coming quarters. For more such analyses, read Profit Pulse. In the long run, Indias paper industry has significant growth potential. Per capita paper consumption in India stands at just 15-16 kgfar below the global average of 57 kgleaving ample room for expansion. As a market leader, ITC is well positioned to capitalize on this growth. About the Author: Madhvendra has been a passionate follower of the equity market for over seven years and a seasoned financial content writer. He loves reading and sharing his opinions about publicly listed Indian companies and macroeconomic trends. Disclosure: The writer does not hold the stocks discussed in this article. The purpose of this article is only to share interesting charts, data points, and thought-provoking opinions. It is NOT a recommendation. If you wish to consider an investment, you are strongly advised to consult your advisor. This article is strictly for educative purposes only. The Indian stock market faced a steep sell-off on Friday, April 4, with benchmark indices plunging sharply. The Sensex tumbled over 800 points, and the Nifty 50 slipped below 22,950, weighed down by weak global cues. This decline followed a day of resilience in the domestic market despite global market volatility. A significant contributor to investor anxiety has been the announcement by US President Donald Trump regarding new tariffs on sectors like pharma. While Indian pharmaceuticals were initially exempted, media reports indicate that Trump is considering imposing duties on pharmaceutical imports as well. Also Read | Nifty Pharma slumps 6% as Donald Trump says pharma tariffs coming soon Although experts believe these tariffs may not have a direct impact on the Indian economy, uncertainty surrounding their broader implications is dampening market sentiment. Sector-Wise Impact and Investment Strategies Top analysts share the sectors that may win and lose from the reciprocal tariffs imposed by Donald Trump on India: Auto and Auto Parts: Facing Uncertainty The automobile sector is vulnerable, particularly companies that export auto components to US-based manufacturers such as GM, Ford, and Tesla. "There are several manufacturers in India that export auto parts to GM, Ford, and Tesla, and they rely on exports for more than 50 per cent of their revenues. Even though they are not explicitly included in this round of tariffs, they were previously part of Section 232 tariffs," noted Sreeram Ramdas, VP, Green Portfolio. Given the uncertainty, investors should approach the sector with caution until more clarity emerges. Capital Goods and Chemicals: Short-Term Headwinds Trumps tariffs could negatively impact manufacturers in capital goods and chemicals, which are highly export-dependent. "This would impact the earnings and margins of manufacturers in the capital goods space, chemicals, seafood exports, and textiles in the short term," said Ramdas. The sector's performance will depend on global trade policies and potential countermeasures from India. Metals and Steel: Cyclical Pressure The metals sector is another area that may come under pressure. "Defensive stocks (FMCG, utilities) may outperform, while cyclical sectors (autos, metals) could underperform," said Pranay Aggarwal, Director & CEO, Stoxkart. He added that long-term implications hinge on negotiation outcomes, but near-term caution is advised. Textiles: Struggling Amid Export Tariffs Indian textile exports, which contribute significantly to global supply chains, could face headwinds from US tariff measures. "Key export-oriented sectors like electronics, textiles, gems & jewellery, auto parts, and processed foods face headwinds due to steep US duties," said Anirudh Garg, Partner and Fund Manager at Invasset PMS. Given these pressures, textile stocks could remain underperformers in the near term. FMCG and Utilities: Defensive Bets In times of economic uncertainty, defensive stocks tend to perform better. "Investors should monitor retaliatory actions and sector-specific exposures. Defensive stocks (FMCG, utilities) may outperform," Aggarwal said. Banking and Financials: A Safe Haven Banking and financial services, particularly those with minimal international exposure, could offer stability in this volatile environment. "Investors should focus on sectors with minimal or no dependency on international trade. Non-lending financials, banks (both PSU and private), and domestic consumption sectors remain strong investment themes," suggested Vishal Bajaj, Director - Wealth, Client Associates. With consistent domestic growth, the banking sector could provide a solid investment opportunity. Also Read | Sensex crashes over 800 points; key factors behind market selloff Balancing Caution with Opportunity The US tariff concerns have introduced volatility into the Indian stock market, with certain sectors poised for headwinds while others could emerge stronger. The pharmaceutical sector appears to be one of the few beneficiaries, while auto, metals, and textiles face immediate pressures. Defensive sectors like FMCG and utilities offer a safe harbor, while banking remains a stable long-term bet. Investors should maintain a diversified portfolio and closely monitor policy developments to make informed decisions amid evolving global trade dynamics. Banger A washed-up DJ is recruited by investigators to bust a criminal gang tied to his more successful rival. Vincent Cassel (La Haine, Black Swan) stars in this new French film by Bertrand Lagros de Langeron, aka So Me, whos known for his graphic design and music videos. Also starring Rachel Dimezell and Laura Felpin. (Netflix) A still from 'Deva'. Deva Dev (Shahid Kapoor) is a renegade cop with the Mumbai police. In the opening scene, we see him crash in a tunnel; when he wakes, he has no memory of who he is, or the murder he was trying to solve. Rosshan Andrrews film is a dour Memento-style thriller. (Netflix) A still from 'A Real Pain'. A Real Pain David and Benji are two cousins from New York on a visit to Poland to honour their recently deceased grandmother, who survived the Holocaust. Jesse Eisenberg writes, directs and stars in this holocaust comedy. Kieran Culkin won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his co-starring role. (JioHotstar) A still from 'Juror #2'. To combat the ever-rising number of credit card defaults in India, leading financial institutions and banks have implemented strict rules for recovering overdue amounts. Kotak Mahindra Bank, in accordance with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulations, ensures that overdue recovery notices are delivered to credit card users seamlessly. This process involves several steps, from initial reminders to potential legal actions. It ensures that borrowers are kept informed of their obligations and the consequences of default. This write-up outlines Kotak Mahindra Banks terms and process for issuing credit card overdue recovery notices. First-time contact and initial communication When a credit card payment is overdue, Kotak Mahindra Bank first sends the credit card holder a reminder via SMS, email, or phone call. Also Read | Credit card spending dropped to 7-month low in February These messages urge customers to follow regulations and settle the outstanding amount along with any penalty amount, promptly. Further, if the credit card holder remains non-compliant, the bank follows up to discuss repayment strategies and offer assistance. This may include settlement options or temporary payment deferments to allow the cardholder time for repayment. Kotak Mahindra Bank's credit card overdue recovery process Reminder messages and notifications: The bank first sends reminders via SMS, registered email or phone calls, informing the credit cardholder of the overdue amount and the last date of payment. Follow-ups and additional reminders: If payment is not received within the stipulated time, additional reminders via calls and emails are sent. These sometimes offer repayment assistance and ways to restructure the payment. Legal notices and repayment final calls: If the borrower continues to default, the bank issues a formal legal notice to the credit cardholder, outlining the legal provisions. Debt recovery and escalation: In serious cases, the bank may involve recovery agents or escalate the matter to the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) for resolution. Account closure and defaulter reporting: If the outstanding amount remains unpaid despite recovery efforts, the bank may close the account and report the default to the credit bureaus, severely impacting the individual's credit profile and future borrowing ability. Note: The recovery process discussed in this write-up is indicative only. For complete details, terms and conditions on the same, consider reaching out to the official website of Kotak Bank and their designated customer support team. Impact of account closure on credit score A credit score is simply a representation of an individual's repayment integrity. Defaulting on credit card payments and account closure can significantly harm one's overall credit profile. A single missed payment can lower an individual's credit score by about 30 points. Repeated defaults make it extremely challenging to secure future loans or credit cards. To avoid any adverse consequences, managing credit responsibly and maintaining a good credit score is essential. Recent consumer protection developments Following the recent lifting of RBI restrictions, Kotak Mahindra Bank is focused on enhanced customer experience, enhanced compliance and following rules and regulations laid down by the RBI diligently. Also Read | Credit card scam alert: 5 essential tips to avert fraud The bank is also focused on protecting customers from unfair recovery practices, supported by well-defined customer service teams, negotiated settlements, and ethical debt collection methods. This approach helps bank customers seek help and assistance without fear or hesitation. New Delhi: The Union cabinet has approved four railway projects worth 18,658 crore and another 6,839 crore to develop villages on Indias borders with Pakistan and China. The railway projects approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Friday will expand Indian Railways network by 1,247 km across 15 districts in Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. The completion of these projects will improve connectivity for about 3,350 villages and 4.7 million people, besides providing direct links to areas like Baloda Bazar, a district in Chhattisgarh known for its cement plants. The projects include construction of the third and fourth lines for the Sambalpur-Jarapda and Jharsuguda-Sason routes, the fifth and sixth lines for the Kharsia-Naya and Raipur-Parmalaksa routes, and doubling of lines on the GondiaBalharshah route. The enhanced line capacity will improve mobility, providing enhanced efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways, the Union cabinet said in a statement. These multi-tracking proposals will ease operations and reduce congestion, providing the much-required infrastructural development on the busiest sections across Indian Railways. Ensuring prosperous and safe borders The 6,839-crore Vibrant Villages Programme-II is chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will be fully funded by the Union government. The objective of the programme is to create better living conditions and adequate livelihood opportunities to ensure prosperous and safe borders, control trans-border crime and assimilate the border population with the nation and inculcate them as eyes and ears of the border guarding forces, crucial for internal security, the Union cabinet said in its statement. The programme will focus on strategic villages in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal between 2025-26 and 2028-29. The programme shall provide funds for infrastructure development within the village or a cluster of villages, value chain development (through cooperatives, SHGs, etc.), border-specific outreach activity, education infrastructure like SMART classes, development of tourism circuits and works/projects to create diverse & sustainable livelihood opportunities in the border areas, the cabinet added. Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union information and broadcasting minister, said a high-level committee under the chairmanship of the cabinet secretary will monitor and oversee the management of these projects. A Punjab Police woman constable, who was arrested for carrying 17.71 grams of heroin in Bhatinda district on Wednesday, flaunted a lavish lifestyle, and posted videos of herself in uniform on social media, violating several service rules. A day later, Amandeep Kaur was dismissed from the service for flouting Punjab Police's strict rules against making and sharing social media reels in uniform, professional misconduct, and misuse of the emblem. Kaur violated all. But, what is even more surprising is the lifestyle she flaunted in her social media reels. Some of her posts were videos with Punjabi songs, while a few even mocked the police force. Kaur's Thar, expensive bags and watches Kaur was reportedly driving her Thar when she was stopped for a routine check and heroin was found in her possession. Sources said that during her arrest, she mentioned the name of a senior IPS officer and said she wanted to talk to him. Kaur's social media profile, which is now deleted, has over 30,000 followers, and is full of reels and videos featuring expensive accessories, branded handbags, and even dressing up her pet dog in designer outfits. In one of the videos, a controversial song mocking the police force can be heard playing in the background, Tu aankhen tal ja ni kiddan taliye, puthe kamaan vich taan police rali ai" (You ask me to stop doing wrong things, but how can I stop when police itself backs us in such wrongdoings). In another such reel, she lip-syncs a famous Punjabi song, Four by four di shaukeen lagdi, bina picche vekhe Thar back layi. Oh MK ke bag vich raund rakhdi, kuri agg de bhabhooke vaangu phire machdi (She is fond of 4x4 vehicles and reverses her Thar without looking back. She keeps bullet rounds in her branded MK bag and is very attractive). She can be seen wearing her police uniform with sunglasses and is standing in front of a Mahindra Thar. Dismissed from service Inspector General of Police Sukhchain Singh Gill said Constable Amandeep Kaur, a resident of Chakk Fateh Singh Wala, who was originally posted at Mansa but was attached to Police Lines in Bathinda, has been dismissed from service under Article 311 of the Constitution of India. The action has been taken as per the instructions by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann regarding the ongoing war on drugs. We will also be inquiring into all properties which the woman constable may have acquired through proceeds of crime and will take action as per law, said Gill. A Florida couple was apprehended after they were found having sex on the top of graveyard in a historic cemetery. Police have also recovered methamphetamine and prescription drugs in their car, according to a report by People. Joseph Luke Brown, 38, and Stephanie Kay Wegman, 46 - both residents of Websters reportedly abandoned their Nissan vehicle near the locked front gate of the cemetery - which dates back to 1850.They later relocated to a more secluded spot toward the back, where officers found them on March 26. A state trooper initially spotted the car, which was registered to both Wegman and her husband, Anthony Johnson. The vehicle had its windows down and was unoccupied, prompting suspicion and a subsequent investigation. When officers found the couple, they also discovered methamphetamine, Xanax, and oxycodone inside the vehicle. Wegman was arrested on drug-related charges and taken to the county jail, while Brown was transported to a hospital for treatment of a preexisting leg injury. Authorities stated that a warrant would be pursued for Brown, though the specific charges have not yet been revealed. The cemetery, situated in a semi-rural area of Florida, held its last burial in 1924 and was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2021. Helicopter Swaying Reveals Soldiers Having Sex in Cockpit In a similar case last year, two army personnel were caught having sex in an Apache helicopter after the shocked ground crew spotted the multi-million-pound gunship swaying up and down. According to The Mirror, the two soldiers, who were believed to have been intoxicated, were discovered half-naked, engaging in sexual activity inside the cockpit of the helicopter during a routine maintenance check. The incident drew the attention of the ground crew, who had just completed a night-time servicing of the 8.5 million (around 90 crores) AH-64 gunship when they heard unusual noises and saw the rotors swaying up and down. Amid recent outbreaks of avian Influenza, or bird flu, in the country, the Union government has mandated registration of all poultry farms within a month to enhance disease tracking and control. The government has also asked poultry farms to follow hygiene practices rigorously, control farm access, and follow stringent biosecurity protocols to minimize the risk of infection. Six active outbreak zones are spread across Jharkhand, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh. Bird flu is a highly infectious viral disease affecting birds, with occasional transmission to mammals. Since its first detection in India in 2006, outbreaks have been reported annually across multiple states. Also Read: Centre asks traders, wholesales, retailers to declare wheat stock every Friday from 1 April This year, the virus has shown cross-species transmission, impacting poultry, wild birds, and even big cats in some areas. In a meeting with stakeholders today, Alka Upadhyaya, secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD), said, "Protecting our poultry sector is critical for food security and rural livelihoods. Strict biosecurity, scientific surveillance, and responsible industry practices are essential in our fight against bird flu." Low-path vaccine cleared To control the disease, the DAHD has permitted the use of the H9N2 (Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza) vaccine, developed by ICAR-NIHSAD, Bhopal, which is now available commercially. A national study will evaluate the vaccines effectiveness of LPAI vaccination. Also Read: Govt ramps up pulses procurement, approves purchase of 13.2 lakh tonne tur In a meeting today with DAHD, representatives from the poultry industry urged the government to explore vaccination as a strategy to prevent further economic losses in the sector. However, scientific experts highlighted that available Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) vaccines do not provide sterile immunitybut only reduce virus shedding. Call for predictive system Given the complexities, it was agreed that further scientific evaluation was needed to make a policy decision. The meeting recommended conducting detailed science-based assessments to determine the feasibility of HPAI vaccination in India. Additionally, she emphasised the development of a predictive modelling system for early warning and environmental surveillance. This would enable proactive disease detection and response, minimise the risk of outbreaks, and protect the poultry industry. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been taking "proactive measures" in coordination with the district administration to "mitigate any damage" to the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in Maharashtra, the Union government told the Rajya Sabha. In a written response to Rajya Sabha member Abdul Wahab's query, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat confirmed that the tomb of 17th-century Mughal emperor Aurangzeb is an ASI-protected monument. Also Read | Aurangzeb tomb in Maharashtra witnesses huge rush of visitors two days after Eid The tomb of Aurangzeb is under the jurisdiction of Aurangabad Circle of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). ASI has been continuously taking proactive measures in co-ordination with District Administration to mitigate any damage to the protected monument, the minister said. Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat confirmed that the tomb of 17th-century Mughal emperor Aurangzeb is an ASI-protected monument. The tomb was in the news recently when widespread protests and violence erupted in various parts of Maharashtra over a call to move it. The 17th-century emperor's tomb is in Aurangabad, now known as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. Also Read | Aurangzeb tomb controversy unnecessary: RSS leader Suresh Joshi The member asked the minister whether it is a fact that the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb Alamgir is an ASI-protected monument and, if so, whether these details have been mentioned on the ASI website or removed on the pretext of recent threats. The member also asked whether it has come to notice of the ASI that this particular ASI monument is under threat of demolition from extremist groups, and if so, what actions have been taken by the ASI to protect this monument. 12-feet metal sheet and multi-tasking staff Listing the actions to protect the monument, the minister said, Further action taken includes providing 12-feet high metal sheet around the tomb, concertina wire over the surrounding walls to check the trespassers, deployment of private security personnel in addition to multi-tasking staff and inspection on regular intervals by ASI officials. Senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi said those who have faith in the Mughal ruler should visit his tomb. What's the row over Aurangzeb's tomb? Following Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi's praise of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb, the Bharatiya Janata Party and Shiv Sena MLAs staged a protest outside the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on March 18. A day earlier, violent clashes took place in Nagpur, where unidentified people vandalised shops, set vehicles on fire, and pelted stones in the Hansapuri area. On March 22, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said 92 people had been arrested in connection with the violence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union Cabinet on Friday, April 4, approved railway projects worth nearly 18,658 crore for states like Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh, according to the official press release from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA). Also Read | With hotter days ahead, Railways to add more coal rakes to avert power crisis According to the data, the government aims to launch four projects covering 15 districts across the three states, increasing the Indian Railways network by up to 1,247 kilometres. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved Four projects of Ministry of Railways with total cost of Rs. 18,658 crore (approx.), said the official statement. The release also disclosed the details of the project, such as building the third and the fourth line at Sambalpur Jarapda (in Odisha), the third and the fourth line at Jharsuguda Sason (in Odisha), the fifth and sixth line at Kharsia Naya Raipur (in Chattisgarh), and the doubling project in Gondia Balharshah (in Maharashtra). The enhanced line capacity will improve mobility, providing enhanced efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways. These multi-tracking proposals will ease operations and reduce congestion, providing the much-required infrastructural development on the busiest sections across Indian Railways, said the central government in the official release. Route Significance According to the central government, the projects are placed in essential routes which are needed for the transportation of commodities like agricultural products, fertilizer, coal, iron ore, steel, cement, and limestone, among other materials. Indian railways with the new capacity aim to witness additional freight traffic of magnitude 88.77 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum). Mentioning the environmental impact of the projects the government also said that they aim to reduce the oil import along with controlling carbon emissions as they hope to minimise logistical cost in India. The Railways being environment friendly and energy efficient mode of transportation, will help both in achieving climate goals and minimizing logistics cost of the country, reduce oil import (95 Crore Litres) and lower CO2 emissions (477 Crore Kg) which is equivalent to plantation of 19 Crore trees, according to the official statement. According to Mint's earlier report on April 2, 2025, the average number of rakes deployed is expected to rise to 470 daily from last years 440 rakes levels, said people aware of the development. In a sad incident, two girls died after a container truck hit a car, when a group of four friends were returning from Nainital on Tuesday, reported NDTV. According to the report, the road accident took place on the Delhi-Lucknow highway on Tuesday night. In the incident, all four doors of the car got locked, which resulted in the four people on board stuck for an hour until the police came to rescue them. Citing the reason for the accident, police suspect the car took a wrong turn, following Google maps. Meanwhile, the other passengers are currently being treated. The police have identified the car travellers as Shivani, Simran, Rahul, and Sanju, residents of Haryana's Rohtak. They were returning from Nainital after a visit to Neem Karoli Baba Ashram. "A truck was travelling to Rampur from Delhi, while the car was coming towards Delhi when the collision happened. The car was trying to exit a bypass and take a turn towards Delhi," NDTV quoted Ranvijay Singh, Superintendent of Police, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh as saying. Car got crushed: The report mentioned that the collision was so strong that the car almost got crushed, and the right side of the car was damaged by the container truck. The police said that at least a dozen people were needed to douse the smoke, break open the car, and pull out the four friends. While struggling to get out of the car and waiting for help, two of them - Shivani and Simran - died. One of the eyewitness Rajesh Kumar, who helped bring one of the injured to the hospital, said, "The car was crossing the road when a truck hit them." The container that hit was filled with cement pipes and overturned on the highway. Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai on Friday said that the party's next BJP chief will be elected unanimously and that he is not in the race for the same. "There is no contest in Tamil Nadu BJP, we will select a leader unanimously. But I am not in the race. I am not in the BJP state leadership race, he said. In BJP, leaders don't compete for a party leader post. We all jointly elect a party president. I'm not in that race for that post, K Annamalai said on Friday, firmly ruling himself out of running for partys Tamil Nadu state presidency. Speaking to the media in Coimbatore, Annamalai said: I want the party to have a bright future. Many have given their lives for the growth of this party. I always wish the best for this party. This follows AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami and Union Home Minister Amit Shah's meeting in Delhi. According to reports, AIADM has shown interest to be a part of the NDA ahead of the Tamil Nadu assembly polls in 2026. However, it comes with a key condition that the BJP must replace its state president K. Annamalai. Also Read | Rajeev Chandrasekhar unanimously elected Kerala BJP president Why could AIADMK ask BJP to replace its state party president? The rift between both BJP and AIADM goes back to 2023 when Annamalai's controversial comments about Dravidian icon C.N. Annadurai and former AIADMK leader J. Jayalalithaa led a bitter split. Since then, both parties have traded barbs, with the AIADMK expressing the displeasure with Annamalai's leadership. Who is K. Annamalai? Annamalai, 40, is a BJP leader and former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. He was called Singham (Lion) of Karnataka Police due to his work. When it comes to education, Annamali studied Bachelor of Engineering at PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Also Read | Tamil Nadu language row turns sour for BJP as actor leaves party, joins TVK He found himself embroiled in controversy when DMK criticised him for taking the benefits of the political powers of the BJP government when he was an IPS officer. He responded stating he was appointed as an IPS officer when the country was headed by the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. In 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Annamalai was fielded from the Coimbatore constituency which went polling in Phase 1 on April 19. However, he lost to DMK candidate Ganapathy Rajkumar. One must have encountered a viral video where a group of peacocks could be heard crying. The video caused outrage among the netizens Many shared the video on social media, claiming that bulldozers razed trees spread across 400 acres of land in Telangana's Kancha Gachibowli forest area near the Hyderabad Central University campus. As the matter came to light, several students of Hyderabad Central University (HCU) launched a protest. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court took suo moto cognizance of the felling of trees at a forest area in Kancha Gachibowli. The issue was also raised in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. Also Read | EU deforestation rule could cost India up to $1.3 bn in exports every year What's the controversy about? The row involving Kancha Gachibowli can be traced to 2003 under former united Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidus tenure. Recently, several reports claimed 400 acres of land near the Kancha Gachibowli area in Hyderabad was razed to set up an IT park. According to PTI, the Telangana government's plans to develop IT infrastructure and others on 400 acres of land at Kancha Gachibowli. Also Read | Deforestation drives worsening flooding in Kashmir A UoHSU leader was quoted by news agency PTI as saying that the Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation Limited recently announced the auction of 400 acres of land in Kancha Gachibowli. The UoHSU leader said this would lead to the loss of university land as well as the biodiversity of Hyderabad. Mint could not independently verify these claims. The land reportedly includes the Mushroom Rock area within the University of Hyderabad, near its East Campus. Land ownership: 'Not forest land' The Congress-led Telangana government maintains that the land is not notified as forest land and is, in fact, revenue land. As per PTI, the government says that the land parcel belonged to it and not the varsity. However, the UoH Registrar issued a statement asserting that the boundary of the disputed land in question was finalised, contradicting the government's claim. Meanwhile, the Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC) said earlier this week that it had proved its ownership of the land in court and that the UoH (a Central university) does not own any land in the land parcel in question. "Disputes, if any, created on the ownership of land, will be a contempt of the court," it said, adding that the revenue records clearly state that the land is not forest land, it said. Also Read | Hyderabad University: Kanhaiya denied nod to address students amid escalating protests Is it university land or govt land? Another major issues is the demarcation between Kancha Gachibowli and the Hyderabad University. What Telangana govt says The TGIIC said that with the consent of the University of Hyderabad Registrar, a survey of the land was conducted in July 2024 in the presence of the university officials for identification of boundaries. "The officials finalized the boundaries on the same day," the TGIIC said, as per PTI. As per the News Minute, the government noted that revenue authorities and TGIIC had ensured that revenue officials in the presence of UoH authorities carried out a survey to ensure that not one inch of university land was touched. Also Read | Hyderabad University: Kanhaiya denied nod to address students amid escalating protests UoHs response However, the UoH said no survey was conducted in July 2024 by the revenue authorities in the campus to demarcate the 400 acres of land resumed by the state government in 2006. "The only action taken thus far has been a preliminary inspection of the land's topography," UoH Registrar Devesh Nigam said in a statement. The university also denied the government statement that it has agreed for such demarcation of the land. The Registrar said they had requested the state government to clearly demarcate the land belonging to the university and also conserve the biodiversity in the disputed area. Also Read | Zoos get SOS on endangered Indian species Countering the university's claims, official sources told PTI that there are documents which show that the land in question in Kancha Gachibowli has been handed over to the state government in 2004. UoH claims that in 1975, the united Andhra Pradesh government allotted 2,324 acres to them, but the Telangana High Court noted in 2022 that no official documentation exists to confirm this transfer. The Kancha in Kancha Gachibowli refers to unproductive land, which the state argues is revenue land as per the earliest records, the News Minute reported. Students protest The University of Hyderabad Students Union had staged a protest in March after noticing deployment of police and earthmovers at the land, following which over 50 students were detained and released later. According to police, when the TGIIC initiated development work at the site on March 30, as per a Government Order, a group of people from UoH and also others gathered at the site and tried to stop the work "forcibly". They "attacked" the officials and workers with sticks and stones and two persons were arrested in this connection. Protest erupts: What do protesters demand? The protesting students demanded a written assurance that the land would be formally registered under the university. The University students demanded the Telangana government to stop the reported auction. They demanded withdrawal of the police personnel from the campus and removal of earth-moving machinery. The students also condemned the "brutal police crackdown" on peaceful demonstrators. The University of Hyderabad Students' Union and other unions and associated parties launched an indefinite protest and announced a boycott of classes from April 1. They are opposing the proposal to undertake development at the land parcel on the grounds of environmental conservation. In a joint statement, the UoHSU and other students' associations accused the university administration of "betraying" students by facilitating land clearing activities for the state government on 400 acres at Kancha Gachibowli abutting the university. Eighteen-year-old Boveni Yugendar, a first-year IMA Hindi student at the University of Hyderabad, also begun a hunger strike at the universitys main gateto protest against the alleged destruction of forest cover at Kancha Gachibowli, South First reported. Politicians, celebs react Rajya Sabha MP Ravi Chandra Vaddiraji raised the issue in the upper house on Thursday. He alleged that the land was cleared using a "JCB" at night. He said the environment ministry has been given a factual report and issued a notice to the Chief Secretary of State. Meanwhile, BJP's Bengaluru MP also raised the issued in the Lok Sabha. He posted a video from his speech on X early Friday and captioned it as, "The environmental crimes of Congress in Karnataka and Telangana come at the cost of permanent damage to the ecology and biodiversity at Bandipura and Kancha Gachibowli..." Bollywood actor Dia Mirza also voiced the concern, saying, Students are raising their voices for a future where nature thrives. Forests, not IT parks, offer young people a chance at a sustainable tomorrow. Development' at the cost of biodiversity is DESTRUCTION. Save Kancha Forest in Gachibowli, Hyderabad. Court cases Currently, there are two Public Interest Litigations (PILs) against the state government in the Telangana High Court. The first PIL was filed by the NGO Vata Foundation, requesting the High Court to declare transfer of land to the TGIIC as arbitrary and illegal. The second PIL filed by retired Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) scientist Babu Rao Kalpala sought the court to declare the states action of razing 400 acres of forest land issued by the Revenue Department as unlawful and a violation of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, the News Minute reported. On Thursday, the Supreme Court ordered to stop all sorts of developmental activities carried out in the Kancha Gachibowli area in Hyderabad, expressing shock at the large-scale felling of trees in hundreds of acres of land there. Taking suo moto cognizance of the felling of trees, the Supreme Court stayed felling of trees at the site and warned Chief Secretary of consequences of its order is not complied with. The Chief Secretary of State was directed to ensure no felling takes place till further orders. Waqf Bill: Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla slammed Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sonia Gandhi's bulldozed through remark on Waqf (Amendment) Bill and called it most unfortunate, stating it goes against dignity of parliament democracy. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded apology from her amid uproar in lower house on Friday. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju raised the issue and requested the Speaker to provide a ruling on it. What did Sonia Gandhi say on Waqf (Amendment) Bill? While speaking at the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) general body meetingi n Samvidhan Sadan, Gandhi hit out at BJP, saying, Yesterday, the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, was passed in the Lok Sabha, and today, it is scheduled to come up in the Rajya Sabha. The bill was in effect bulldozed through. Our party's position is clear. The Bill is a brazen assault on the Constitution itself. It is very much part of the BJP's deliberate strategy to keep our society in a state of permanent polarization. Gandhi alleged opposition leaders in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were not being permitted to present their views, stating, It is a matter of grave concern to our democracy that the LOP in the Lok Sabha is not permitted to speak. Similarly, time and again, the LOP in the Rajya Sabha, Khargeji, is also not allowed to say what he wants to say and indeed must say. Also Read | Budget Session concludes, Lok Sabha adjourns sine die She added, Like you, I have been witness to how the House gets adjourned not because of us but because of the protests by the Treasury Benches themselves. This is quite extraordinary and shocking, designed to prevent the Opposition from raising their concerns that would put the Government on the spot. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sonia Gandhi Birla said that the senior congress leader was casting aspersions on the house proceedings which is not appropriate" noting the House sitting till late, with division thrice on the bill and passing it as per rules. Debate on the Waqf (Amendment) bill The Lok Sabha on Wednesday started the13 hours and 53 minutes debate, one of the longest-sittings, on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, and ended on Thursday (midnight). It saw 288 members supporting it and 232 opposing it, while the upper house had 128 members voting in favour and 95 against it. Various leaders attacked each other, with AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi stating the intent was to make Muslims second-class citizens, whereas Home Minister Amit Shah accused the opposition of fear-mongering for the sake of vote bank politics. Meanwhile, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said the party will contest the constitutionality of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the top court. He called the passage of the bill an assault of the Narendra Modi government on the Indian Constitution". Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Friday. The two leaders met on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Thailand. The bilateral meeting between the two leaders comes as diplomatic tensions simmer between the two nations after Yunus's comment on India's northeastern states during his recent visit to the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) annual conference in China. India and Bangladesh also saw tensions in ties due to differences over the alleged targeting Hindu minorities in Bangladesh and India's decision to grant asylum to Sheikh Hasina, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. This is the first meeting between the two leaders after Hasina's ouster from the country last year. The bilateral meeting comes after Dhaka had requested a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit to sort out differences. But Modi's schedule in Thailand did not mention the requested meeting. Earlier, the two leaders were seen seated together at the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) dinner in Bangkok, Thailand. Modi in Bangkok for BIMSTEC Summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Bangkok to participate in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit on Thursday morning. BIMSTEC is an international organisation of seven South Asian and Southeast Asian nations, which together employ 1.73 billion people and have a combined gross domestic product of US$5.2 trillion (2023). The BIMSTEC member statesIndia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailandare among the countries dependent on the Bay of Bengal. India recently raised concerns about the Banglaesh's interim governments handling of attacks on Bangladeshs Hindus and other minorities, the deteriorating law and order situation, and the release of violent extremists from jail. Bangladesh has raised the presence of former premier Sheikh Hasina in India. Bangladesh has also submitted an extradition request. Bangladesh's formal request In September last year, Bangladesh made a formal request for a Modi-Yunus bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. PM Modi did not meet Yunus at that time. Another issue between the two nations is Bangladesh militarys increasing engagement with Pakistans armed forces, including the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Senior ISI officials were part of a Pakistani military delegation that recently visited Bangladesh. Earlier in February, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting with Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Advisor Hossain on the sidelines of Indian Ocean Conference in Oman. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Friday. The two leaders met on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Thailand. Advertisement The bilateral meeting between the two leaders comes as diplomatic tensions simmer between the two nations after Yunus's comment on India's northeastern states during his recent visit to the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) annual conference in China. India and Bangladesh also saw tensions in ties due to differences over the alleged targeting Hindu minorities in Bangladesh and India's decision to grant asylum to Sheikh Hasina, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. This is the first meeting between the two leaders after Hasina's ouster from the country last year. The bilateral meeting comes after Dhaka had requested a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit to sort out differences. But Modi's schedule in Thailand did not mention the requested meeting. Advertisement Earlier, the two leaders were seen seated together at the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) dinner in Bangkok, Thailand. Modi in Bangkok for BIMSTEC Summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Bangkok to participate in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit on Thursday morning. BIMSTEC is an international organisation of seven South Asian and Southeast Asian nations, which together employ 1.73 billion people and have a combined gross domestic product of US$5.2 trillion (2023). The BIMSTEC member statesIndia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailandare among the countries dependent on the Bay of Bengal. India recently raised concerns about the Banglaesh's interim governments handling of attacks on Bangladeshs Hindus and other minorities, the deteriorating law and order situation, and the release of violent extremists from jail. Bangladesh has raised the presence of former premier Sheikh Hasina in India. Bangladesh has also submitted an extradition request. Advertisement Bangladesh's formal request In September last year, Bangladesh made a formal request for a Modi-Yunus bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. PM Modi did not meet Yunus at that time. Another issue between the two nations is Bangladesh militarys increasing engagement with Pakistans armed forces, including the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Senior ISI officials were part of a Pakistani military delegation that recently visited Bangladesh. Earlier in February, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting with Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Advisor Hossain on the sidelines of Indian Ocean Conference in Oman. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Tamil Nadu on April 6, coinciding with Ram Navami, to inaugurate the New Pamban Rail Bridge, and flag off the Rameswaram-Tambaram train service, the government announced in an official release on Friday. According to the PIB release, PM Modi will inaugurate the new Pamban Rail Bridge around noon on Sunday. The New Pamdan Bridge is Indias first vertical lift sea bridge. PM Modi will also flag off the Rameswaram-Tambaram (Chennai) new train service and a ship from the road bridge and witness the operation of the bridge. The New Pamban Bridge will replace the old 1914-built bridge, which served for over a century before being closed in 2022 due to corrosion problems. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a post on X in November 2024, described it as "a new era of connectivity." "Built in 1914, the old Pamban Rail Bridge connected the mainland to Rameswaram for 105 years. Decommissioned in Dec 2022 due to corrosion, it paved the way for the modern New Pamban Bridge, marking a new era of connectivity!" he said. The bridge spans over 2.5 km and has been constructed at a cost of 535 crore by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL). "It's designed to handle faster trains and increased traffic. The New Pamban Bridge is not just functional - it's a symbol of progress, connecting people and places with modern engineering," Ashiwini Vaishnaw posted on X. On PM to inaugurate Pamban railway bridge, Railway Board Executive Director Dilip Kumar said, as quoted by ANI, This bridge has been made to connect Rameshwaram to mainland India with a length of 2.78 Km... This includes a vertical lift span of 72.5 meters, enabling marine traffic to pass through. Designed with cutting-edge technology by IIT Chennai and IIT Mumbai, the bridge honours the spiritual significance of Rameswaram, home to the revered Ramanathaswamy temple and one of India's Char Dham... About New Pamban Bridge The new Pamban Bridge carries deep cultural significance as per Ramayana, as the construction of Ram Setu was initiated from Dhanushkodi near Rameswaram. Built at a cost of over 550 crore, the new Pamban bridge is 2.08 km in length and features 99 spans and a 72.5-metre vertical lift span that rises to a height of 17 metres. It ensures seamless train operations while facilitating the smooth movement of ships. The bridge has been constructed with stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade protective paint, and fully welded joints, which increases durability and reduces maintenance needs. The bridge is designed for dual rail tracks to accommodate future demands and has a special polysiloxane coating, which protects it from corrosion and ensures longevity in the harsh marine environment. PM to pray at Ramanathswamy Temple in Rameshwaram Following the inauguration of the New Pamban Bridge, PM Modi will pray at Ramanathswamy Temple in Rameswaram on the occasion of Ram Navami. PM to lay foundation stone for projects PM Modi will also lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation various rail and road projects worth over 8,300 crore in Tamil Nadu on April 6. The Tamil Nadu government will install a statue of German philosopher and revolutionary socialist Karl Marx in Chennai and also establish a memorial for All India Forward Bloc leader P K Mookiah Thevar in Usilampatti in Madurai, Chief Minister M K Stalin announced on Thursday. Making the announcements under rule 110 in the Assembly, he said the Dravidian model government wanted to glorify and commend the revolutionary world leader Karl Marx. What did MK Stalin say? "Karl Marx gave us the slogan 'workers of the world unite,'" the Chief Minister said referring to the famed political slogan, one of the rallying cries of The Communist Manifesto. Though many made history, it was Karl Marx who altered the course of history. "It was his thoughts that laid the foundation for world revolutions and various changes that this world has achieved so far. It is with such a thought of 'everything for all' that we presented our Budget on March 14, coinciding with Marx's death anniversary," Stalin said. "I think it is appropriate that a statue of Marx be erected in Chennai, where the trade union movement was formed a hundred years ago," he said. The second announcement was made on the eve of Mookiah Thevar's 103rd birth anniversary. Around 270 passengers, including several Indians and British nationals, have been stranded for over 40 hours at Turkey's Diyarbakir Airport. The incident happened after a Virgin Atlantic flight from London to Mumbai was forced to make an emergency landing on April 2. It led to passengers' distress, with many claiming lack of facilities at the terminal. What exactly happened? Flight VS358 took off from London's Heathrow airport at 11:40 am local time on April 2 and was scheduled to land in Mumbai at 1: 40 am on April 3. However, it made an emergency landing at Diyarbakir airport around 7 pm local time after a passenger sought urgent medical attention. Dry food for hours, treated like prisoners' According to an Indian Express report, a passenger named Sumit Sheth said, We were jolted as the plane hit the runway. There was no representative from Virgin Atlantic to guide us. The Turkish airport staff couldnt speak English or Hindi, making communicating extremely difficult. We are stuck, confused, and helpless. Some passengers complained of communication issues with staff, limited food for hours as they were initially given a sandwich, water bottle. They relied on dry snacks and chocolates for next 24 hours. Also Read | The longest & shortest flights in India this summer every passenger should know We have been starving for nearly 20 hours. When the food finally arrived, it was a non-vegetarian meal where the chicken was served directly over a roti. As vegetarians, we had nothing to eat except a handful of salad, another passenger stated. A flyer who was with his his 8-month-old infant expressed frustration stating, We heard that the crew was given a place to rest, but no one cared about us, even the kids and the elderly. We were treated like prisoners, confined to the terminal. Indian embassy in Turkey reacts The Embassy of India, Ankara is in constant communication with Virgin Atlantic Airlines, Diyarbakir Airport Directorate, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Turkiye. Through the Missions coordination, appropriate care is being extended to the passengers. We are in discussion with the related authorities for the early resolution of the issue and the arrangement of an alternate flight to Mumbai for the stranded passengers, Indian embassy in Turkey posted on X. Also Read | WATCH: Moments before Indian Air Force jet crashed in Gujarat killing one pilot A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker was found dead at his office in Nagawara area of Bengaluru of Karnataka. A post on one of his social media handles blamed Congress MLA Ponnanna and local Congress leader Thenira Mahena for his death. The BJP functionary has been identified as Vinay Somaiah. He was 35-year-old. According to reports, Vinay Somaiya was arrested two months ago for allegedly mocking Congress MLA Ponnanna. In his post blaming Ponnanna, Vinay Somaiya said his arrest brought shame upon him and his family. He said the police continued to harass him even after he secured a bail. A complaint was filed against Vinay Somaiya and two others for a light-hearted post against the Congress MLA. His family said that while Karnataka high court stayed investigation into the matter, Somaiya continued to face harassment from the police, India TV reports. Karnataka Minister Dr G Parameshwara assured police action and investigation into the suicide case of the BJP functionary, promising that the truth will come out. Parameshwara said, The police will investigate the matter and take necessary action. During the investigation, the truth will come out, and action will be taken based on the findings. Also Read | Kerala student who attempted suicide dies after months in coma, she alleged harassment by hostel warden The Pentagons inspector general will probe the Signal group chat where Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and other Donald Trump administration officials discussed details of an impending attack on Houthi militants in Yemen. We are initiating the subject evaluation in response to a request from lawmakers for an inquiry into recent public reporting on the Secretary of Defenses use of an unclassified commercially available messaging application to discuss information pertaining to military actions in Yemen in March 2025, the inspector generals office said in a statement Thursday. Roger Wicker, the Republican chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Jack Reed, the panels top Democrat, asked the inspector general last week to look into the facts and circumstances around the episode, which came to light because a magazine editor was inadvertently included in the discussion, and to assess Defense Department classification policies. If true, this reporting raises questions as to the use of unclassified networks to discuss sensitive and classified information, the senators said in a letter to Steven Stebbins, the acting Pentagon inspector general. Atlantic Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg published a story saying he had been inadvertently added to the group chat on pending strikes against the Houthis that included top US officials including Vice President JD Vance and Hegseth. The Atlantic later published the transcript of the chat, including a text in which Hegseth shared details of timing shortly before the attacks as well as which US military assets would carry it out. In normal circumstances, such a letter would trigger a probe almost immediately. But President Donald Trump fired Stebbins predecessor, Robert Storch, along with several other inspectors general after taking office in January, leaving questions about the offices current status. Attorney General Pam Bondi has indicated she wont seek a probe of the Signal episode, saying it was simply a mistake. It was sensitive information, not classified, and inadvertently released, Bondi said. What we should be talking about is it was a very successful mission. Our world is now safer because of that mission. Were not going to comment any further on that. Hegseth has been defiant when addressing the issue, telling reporters nobody was texting war plans, and thats all Im going to say. Democrat Reed said in a statement Thursday that he welcomed the review. Whether intended or not, Secretary Hegseth endangered the lives of American servicemembers through his recklessness, Reed said. Its rare but not unprecedented for the Pentagons inspector general to investigate senior defense leaders, including the defense secretary. Storch opened an inquiry in early 2024 after controversy arose over concern that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austins keep his hospitalization secret unnecessarily posed risks to national security. Storch issued a report concluding that such risks didnt materialize but called for more clarity on what should happen if a senior leader is incapacitated. A day after the Supreme Court cancelled the appointments of 25,752 teachers and staff in Bengals government and aided schools over 2016 recruitment irregularities, many of those affected opened up about how the verdict has upended their lives, plunging them into uncertainty and despair. While the sacked teachers are now left with stories of shattered dreams and financial turmoil, the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) has promised that it would soon initiate the process of conducting fresh exams for all teaching and non teaching candidates who were part of the 2016 recruitment drive. Amit Ranjan Bhuyan does not have a job in the wake of the Supreme Court order. He taught physical science to Class 9 and 10 and after losing his job, Amit Ranjan blames the Mamata Banerjee government. We studied, cracked a competitive exam and got a job. Some people resorted to corruption. It would not have been possible without the state government's support. But those untainted like us were expecting that we would be able to continue in our jobs. This judgment has destroyed our lives. I have a nine-year-old daughter, my wife and my mother. There are EMIs, how will we look for new jobs now, he told NDTV. Employees of West Bengal government schools react after the Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta High Court's verdict Many have highlighted that even those who cleared the exam and secured their positions on merit have now lost their jobs. Now they all have blamed the state government for the uncertainties they face. Why so much corruption? The state government is responsible. But the Supreme Court should have given relief to those not involved in corruption. Why did I lose my job? he said, adding, If I were 25-26, I would have cracked another exam. The confidence levels are different then. I am 39 now, which job will I be eligible for? Rajat Halder, another teacher who lost his job, said, There is no allegation against us and the 19,000 candidates like me. But still, the Supreme Court has declared us unqualified teachers. We are qualified teachers because the investigation agencies have not found any allegation against me. We are fully untainted teachers. The Supreme Court has done a grave injustice against an untainted candidate like me. Who lost their jobs? With the top court scrapping over 25,000 jobs in the recruitment case, around 12,905 serving teachers of Classes 9 and 10 in state schools have now lost their posts. The number of job losers in Classes 11 and 12 stood at 5,712. The rest of the nearly 26,000 dismissed employees are non-teaching staff belonging to Group C and D categories. What did WBSSC say? WBSSC Chairman Siddhartha Majumdar said the commission, in view of the top court order, would seek legal advice on the eligibility of candidates who can take the fresh tests. About 26 lakh candidates had applied for the exams in 2016 and around 22 lakh appeared for the tests. Of them, some 1.41 lakh candidates were aspirants for Classes 9-10 and another about 1.5 lakh candidates sat for teachers recruitment in Classes 11-12. The rest were candidates for non-teaching posts. Although the Supreme Court has directed us to initiate the selection process for filling up the vacancies, we will need legal clarification on whether new candidates are also eligible to take part in the fresh exams, Majumdar said. The chairman, however, confirmed that given the large volume of candidates involved, the completion of the selection process within three months was unlikely. There is no mention of a three-month deadline in the court order. This is a long process and we are unlikely to finish it within three months, Majumdar said. We will initiate the process of starting the fresh examination of 22 lakh candidates as soon as possible. We will also make our recommendations to the school education department, but cannot share any further details at this stage," he said. The Trump administration plans to freeze $510 million in grants to Brown University over alleged antisemitism on campus, a US official told Reuters on condition of anonymity. The move makes Brown the latest university targeted by Trump on this issue. Last month, the Education Department warned 60 institutions, including Brown, of possible enforcement actions. What Brown University said? Brown said it has not received formal notification. Brown Provost Frank Doyle said in an email that the school couldnt substantiate the information but was aware of troubling rumors about federal action against its funding. The potential freeze follows similar moves by the US government against Columbia, Harvard and Princeton, Browns Ivy League peers. "We are closely monitoring notifications related to grants, but have nothing more we can share as of now," he added. Also Read | Rasha Alawieh confirms attending Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah's funeral Brown is particularly vulnerable to any funding disruption because its finances are already strained. The school has dipped into its endowment as increases in financial aid and staff salaries pressure its budget, an approach it has said is unsustainable. Brown operates a medical school and school of public health that draws federal research grants. Why Trump is threatening to freeze university grants? Trump has threatened to slash federal funding for universities over allegations of antisemitism during pro-Palestinian campus protests against US ally Israel's devastating military assault on Gaza, which has caused a humanitarian crisis in the enclave and followed a deadly October 2023 attack by Islamist group Hamas. Trump has called the protesters antisemitic, and has labeled them as sympathetic to Hamas militants and as foreign policy threats. Protesters, including some Jewish groups, say the Trump administration wrongly conflates their criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and advocacy for Palestinian rights with antisemitism and support for Hamas. Princeton University said on Tuesday the U.S. government froze several dozen research grants to the school. The Trump administration is also reviewing $9 billion in federal contracts and grants awarded to Harvard University. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have detained some foreign student protesters in recent weeks and are working to deport them. Human rights advocates and academic experts have condemned the moves as an assault on free speech and academic freedom. Trump canceled $400 million funding to Columbia last month In March, the Trump administration canceled $400 million in funding for Columbia and threatened $9 billion in grants and contracts at Harvard. Princeton said earlier this week that dozens of research grants were suspended. During US Vice President JD Vance's visit to a US air base in Greenland last week, Greenlanders staged some of the largest demonstrations ever seen in in the island nation. While some anti-American protesters were seen holding "Yankees Go Home" banners others were wearing "Make America Go Away" caps, now gaining popularity worldwide. In a post on Facebook, shared before Vance and his wife Usha Vances visit to Greenland, a native of the island shared a parody MAGA (Make America Great Again) hat. The picture he shared shows a red cap with the words Make America Go Away written on it. Residents in Nuuk also planted Greenlandic flags in the snow and a cardboard sign in English that said "Our Land. Our Future". Aannguaq Reimer-Johansen, a Greenland native, shared the post a week before US Vice President JD Vance's visit to the island. Aannguaq Reimer-Johansen, a Greenland native, shared the post a week before the Vances arrival. Citizens: Vance's wife's visit is a charm offensive. If you take a smiling selfie with them, you are sending a signal to the whole world that you love America and want to be part of it. Therefore don't show interest. We have already shown our position through a large demonstration. Let's stand firm and stick together, he wrote. What is MAGA The Make America Great Again movement was started by US President Donald Trump during his presidential campaign in 2016. MAGA became a rallying cry for many Trump supporters during his candidacy, and continues to be the centre of all his rallies and speeches till date. The MAGA movement was founded on the belief that America was once a great country but lost its status owing to foreign influences. Its supporters believe that this can be reversed through America first policies, which are now being executed by President Trump. From Trump's crack down on the US' immigration policies to the recent announcement of reciprocal tariffs, MAGA has been in focus all along. Why anti-MAGA protests in Greenland The prime minister of Greenland has pushed back against assertions by US President Donald Trump that America will take control of the island territory. Greenland, a huge, resource-rich island in the Atlantic, is a self-governing territory of Denmark, a NATO ally of the United States. Trump wants to annex the territory, claiming its needed for national security purposes. President Trump says that the United States will get Greenland. Let me be clear: The United States will not get it. We do not belong to anyone else. We decide our own future, Jens-Frederik Nielsen said in a Facebook post. Nielsens post came after the US president told NBC News that military force wasnt off the table with regard to acquiring Greenland. In the interview, Trump allowed that I think theres a good possibility that we could do it without military force. Also Read | Trump 2.0: Expect a cage battle between old MAGA and new MAGA This is world peace, this is international security, he said, but added: I dont take anything off the table. Greenlands residents and politicians have reacted with anger to Trumps repeated suggestions, with Danish leaders also pushing back. Trump also said I dont care, when asked in the NBC interview what message this would send to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has invaded Ukraine and annexed several of its provinces in defiance of international law. After meeting with US officials in Washington, Russian President Vladimir Putin's investment envoy Kirill Dmitriev said on Thursday that he saw a "positive dynamic" in relations between Moscow and Washington. However, he said more meetings were needed to sort out differences. "Without doubt, we note a positive dynamic in our relations," Russian news agencies quoted him as telling journalists in Washington. "A series of meetings will still be needed for us to resolve all our differences. But the main thing we see a positive, creative attitude," the Russian envoy said. Also Read | Russia and Ukraine adopt similar tactic with Trump: Make nice and take it slow Dmitriev visited Washington to meet US officials on Wednesday. Steve Witkof, a Trump envoy who has taken the lead on the administration's contacts with the Kremlin, invited Dmitriev to the United States last week, US officials told Reuters. The meeting was held as the Trump administration continues to press Russia and Ukraine to agree to a ceasefire. It follows US-Russian talks in Saudi Arabia and agreement on US-brokered ceasefires against energy targets and allowing problem-free navigation in the Black Sea. Russia-Ukraine ceasefire While speaking to both Russian and US media outlets on Thursday, Dmitriev said he saw prospects for the beginning of a solution to the more than three-year-old war in Ukraine. He told DNN that with the Trump administration, he saw prospects for diplomatic solution to the Ukraine war. "I think [with] the Trump administration, we are now in realm of thinking about what is possible, what can really work, and how we can find a long-term solution," Dmitriev said. "I think (a) long-term solution is what is needed, because we are also thinking about global security, how to make sure that Russian security concerns are taken into account," he said. He said progress had been helped by the talks in Saudi Arabia and by the work of US envoy Steve Witkoff. What did Russia and US officials discuss? Dmitriev said the talks in Washington focused on rare metals production, cooperation in the Arctic and even crewed flight to Mars. He said work was proceeding on restoring direct air links. Trump's team advising against call with Putin until... US President Donald Trump's inner circle is advising him against a call with Vladimir Putin until the Russian president commits to a full ceasefire with Ukraine, NBC News reported on Thursday, citing administration officials. Some eight years ago, United States Vice President JD Vance was a vocal critic of then-presidential candidate Donald Trump's protectionist trade policies, particularly his advocacy for tariffs, asserting that only automation and technological changes were reshaping the economy. JD Vance had also publicly called the Republican businessman an idiot and said he was reprehensible. Privately, he even compared him to Adolf Hitler. I go back and forth between thinking Trump is a cynical a*****e like Nixon who wouldn't be that bad or that he's America's Hitler, he wrote privately to an associate on Facebook in 2016, Reuters reported. He also directly took aims at trade policies of Donald Trump, saying, If youre worried about Americas economic interest, focus more on automation/education than trade protectionism. In 2017, Vance said fighting over tariffs were yesterday's war. Maybe you could [turn the clock] a little bit on trade if we were in the 1980s, but weve already lost that battle in some ways, Vance told CNN, adding, The jobs are already gone. Now in 2024, since entering the Senate, JD Vance has changed his stance towards Trump policies, eventually becoming a strong supporter of tariffs a shift that was inspired by witnessing the success of Trump's policies, like he says. He now contends that these measures are essential to revitalize the American economy. Vice President Vance has been crystal clear in his unwavering support for revitalizing the American economy by bringing back manufacturing jobs and sticking up for middle class workers and families since before he launched his US Senate race, and that is a large part of why he was elected to public office in the first place, Taylor Van Kirk, spokesperson for the vice president, was quoted as saying by CNN. As Trump tariffs came into effect routing the global markets, JD Vance sought to paint it as a temporary pain while the White House downplayed the immediate effects of tariffs. I frankly thought in some ways it could be worse in the markets, because this is a big transition. You saw the President said earlier today, its like a patient who was very sick, we did the operation, and now its time to make the patient better. And thats exactly what were doing, Vance had said. The vice president added, Were going to have a booming stock market for a long time because were reinvesting in the United States of America, Vance said. Comedian Russell Brand has been charged with rape and sexual assault by the British police after an 18-month investigation. The probe was initiated after four women alleged they had been assaulted by the comedian. In September 2023, British media outlets Channel 4 and the Sunday Times reported allegations from four unidentified women who accused Russell Brand of sexual assault and rape. Londons Metropolitan Police force said Russell Brand, 50, faces one count of rape, one of indecent assault, one of oral rape and two of sexual assault. The alleged offenses involve four women and took place between 1999 and 2005 in central London and the English seaside town of Bournemouth. Police said the investigation remains open and urged anyone with relevant information to contact the force. The comedian, author and Get Him To The Greek actor has denied the allegations, saying his relationships were always consensual. In recent years, Brand has largely disappeared from mainstream media but has built up a large following online with videos mixing wellness and conspiracy theories. He recently said he had moved to the United States. Brand is due to appear in a London court on May 2. Jaswant Narwal, of Britains Crown Prosecution Service, said prosecutors carefully reviewed the evidence after a police investigation into allegations made following the broadcast of a documentary in September 2023." We have concluded that Russell Brand should be charged with offences including rape, sexual assault and indecent assault. The Crown Prosecution Service reminds everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial, Narwal said. Russell Brand had worked on shows with BBC and in January, the public broadcaster apologised to its staff for being unable to complain about the comedian's conduct. The BBC acknowledged that it was clear that presenters have been able to abuse their positions in the past. President Trumps high tariffs would make the U.S. one of the worlds most protectionist countries. There are precedents: Countries from India to Argentina have used tariffsand a range of other trade restrictionsto protect nascent industries and freeze out imports. In a few rare instances, these measures led to results that pleased the architects of protectionist measures, such as spurring car production in Asia and boosting refrigerator manufacturing in South America. But in most cases, tariffs and other measures resulted in poorly made appliances, highly expensive imports and industrial stagnationfactories that couldnt compete in the open market while snuffing out innovation, economists say. It left many countries mired in slow-growth cycles, more dependent on exporting natural resources than competing in fast-growing global sectors. Here are four countries that haveor haddepended on tariffs and how they fared. Tariffs hurt competition in India India, in the decades after its 1947 independence from Britain, went with an import-substitution policywhich sought to replace imports with locally produced goodsdesigned to create homegrown factories by leveling high tariffs. The plan failed to create a vibrant high-growth economy. Then, in the two decades following a financial crisis in 1991, India dropped tariffs to an average of 13% from 125% on trade partners. The countrys economy leapfrogged from the worlds 12th largest to now the fifth-biggest. India, though, didnt abandon protectionism: Tariffs have remained high, and the country hasnt made the necessary changes to unravel red tape and reform labor laws and creaky courts to create a competitive economy. Indias apparel exports are a prime example of the self-harm. As wages have risen in China in the last decade, Bangladesh and Vietnam saw opportunity and opened garment plants that added tens of billions of dollars to their economies. Indias apparel export sector, meanwhile, lost ground, which economists attribute largely to high tariffs on synthetic fibers used in fast-fashion products. It makes it very hard for India to manufacture goods at a competitive rate," said Abhishek Anand, an economist at the Madras Institute of Development Studies, who has called for India to slash its tariffs. South Koreas success story Seoul showed that tariffs and other protectionist policies, in rare cases, can have desired results. A half-century ago, Hyundai Motors was little known, a company protected by a virtual ban on imported cars and then high tariffs. The result of the protectionist policies was that Hyundai turned into an exporting powerhouse, becoming with sister brand Kia the third-largest automaker in the world in terms of vehicle sales, after Toyota and Volkswagen. Planning for an export-oriented future paid off. The same story can be told for South Koreas economy as a whole. Seoul imposed high tariffs on consumer goods throughout the latter half of the 20th century, according to a recent analysis by Seoul National University emeritus economics professor Keun Lee. Once one of the worlds poorest countries after the Korean War, South Korea emerged as a star among Asias fast-growing economic tigers. By 2023, the countrys per capita output stood at $33,000, according to the World Bank, the same level as former colonial master Japan. It can be argued that if Korea had opened up from the beginning without tariffs," Lee wrote, the Korean economy would not have been as successful in promoting domestic firms." He said the tariff policy was carefully calibrated to allow exporters low-tariff access to imported machinery while exposing companies to the discipline of world markets and keeping capitalism alive. By early this century, South Koreas policymakers felt the nations companies were ready to stand on their own. The U.S. and South Korea negotiated a free-trade agreement, which was ratified in 2011. An amended deal in the first Trump administration took effect in 2019. Argentinas protectionist wall Argentina, too, walled off much of its economy in the hope of fostering homegrown factories when the Great Depression hammered what had been one of the worlds richest countries. In the ensuing decades, successive populist leadersfrom Gen. Juan Peron in the 1940s to President Cristina Kirchner earlier this centurymade Argentina one of the worlds most closed democracies through a mix of tariffs, currency controls and restrictions on imports. Kirchner imposed tariffs of up to 35% on imported electronics and implemented other strict import restrictions. Those measures at first created thousands of high-paying jobs as Argentine factory workers assembled Samsung TVs and Nokia cellphones. But they also created inefficient businesses with huge costs for the treasury and taxpayers. Consumers got substandard products and paid twice as much for a television made in Argentina compared with a customer in neighboring, free-market Chile. The level of protection that Argentina has has not helped the economy, its generated a lot of inefficiencies," said Pablo Guidotti, an economist at the Torcuato Di Tella University in Buenos Aires. The protectionism meant some of the worlds most popular tech products, like iPhones, were unavailable, forcing Argentines to pay jacked-up prices on the black market or fly to Miami. Under President Javier Milei, Argentina is slashing regulations, cutting public spending and preparing for free trade. But so far Argentina has maintained some protectionist policies as Milei works to build up central bank reserves. The rise of smugglers and oligarchs in Nigeria Africas fourth-biggest economy has an average tariff of 12% across all products, with effective duties of 70% or more on luxury goods, alcohol, and tobacco and similar products, the International Trade Administration says. Nigerian smugglers have taken advantage, sneaking in everything from rice to carsitems that, despite trade protections, Nigeria still doesnt produce in quantities sufficient to satisfy the local market. For the few who have built businesses protected by tariffs and other barriers, it has meant the amassing of wealth. The most prominent is Africas richest man, Aliko Dangote, whose fortune comes from cement, sugar, salt and other commodities. The tariff has to be there first to create the opportunity," said Samuel Aladegbaye, an analyst at Zedcrest Group, a financial-services company based in Lagos, Nigeria. But if you just have one person able to take advantage of the opportunity, then you can get a monopoly." Dangote denies that he has created a monopoly. He emphasized that anyone was free to make the risky investment decisions he made. Write to Tripti Lahiri at tripti.lahiri@wsj.com, Ryan Dube at ryan.dube@wsj.com and Peter Landers at Peter.Landers@wsj.com Nando de Freitas, Vice President at Microsoft AI, has publicly criticised Google DeepMind over its employee contracts, claiming that staff members from the company frequently seek advice on how to escape restrictive notice periods and non-compete clauses. In a post on X, de Freitas congratulated DeepMind on its recent model advancements but highlighted what he described as a troubling workplace culture. He alleged that DeepMind employees regularly approach him in despair to ask for help in bypassing contractual constraints and even inquire about job opportunities at Microsoft AI. He further claimed that some employees are advised by their managers that seeking external job offers is a pathway to internal promotion. Please dont reach out to me. Rather reach out to each other, de Freitas urged DeepMind employees, directing them to engage with their leadership instead. He specifically mentioned DeepMinds Koray Kavukcuoglu and Douglas Eck, stating that both have previously expressed opposition to such employment practices. De Freitas strongly advised against signing restrictive contracts, arguing that no American corporation should wield such influence over employees, particularly in Europe. He characterised these contract terms as an abuse of power. Also Read | Microsoft scales back data centre plans globally: What it means for AI and Cloud His remarks have sparked fresh scrutiny over employment policies in the tech industry, particularly at leading AI research firms, where non-compete clauses and extended notice periods have been criticised for limiting job mobility and innovation. DeepMind has yet to publicly respond to the allegations. Meanwhile, in other news, Microsoft has scaled back its data centre expansion efforts across multiple regions, signalling a reassessment of its infrastructure investments amid evolving demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud services. The technology giant has either delayed or withdrawn from projects in locations including the United Kingdom, Australia, Indonesia, and several sites in the United States, reported Bloomberg citing sources. South Koreas suspended president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was officially removed from office on Friday after the constitutional court upheld the parliaments decision to impeach him over his controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024. Yoon Suk Yeol's ouster comes after weeks of deliberation and growing concerns about South Korea's state of democracy. On Friday, April 4, the court finally ruled to revoke Yoons presidential authority, stated multiple reports. Who will be South Korea's president? The ruling effectively means that South Korea's acting, President Han Duck-soo, will continue to lead the country until a new president is elected by South Koreans within the next 60 days, reported The Guardian. Martial law in South Korea On December 3, 2024, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared emergency martial law in South Korea and added that the measure was essential to protect the country from North Korea's communist forces amid ongoing parliamentary disputes over a budget bill. Also Read | South Koreas Yoon Faces Growing Chance of Impeachment in Vote In a televised address, Yoon explained to the nation, To safeguard a liberal South Korea from the threats posed by North Korea's communist forces and to eliminate anti-state elements... I hereby declare emergency martial law," reported AFP. 14,000 police officers deployed, supporters hold rallies Over the last few days, South Korea witnessed large rallies by President Yoon Suk Yeol's opponents and supporters. Reportedly, around 14,000 police officers had been deployed in the capital city, Seoul, in anticipation of possible violence, irrespective of the court's ruling. Was the impeachment process illegal? According to The Guardian, Yoon Suk Yeol's supporters and lawyers believe the impeachment proceedings were illegal and that President Yoon should be immediately returned to office to lead Asias fourth-biggest economy. Also Read | South Koreas Yoon Seeks Majority to End Parliament Deadlock US President Donald Trump is showing Americas trading partners no mercy. If they export a lot to the US, it will tariff them backby half. The reciprocal rates are especially harsh on several developing countries, with Vietnam, India, Thailand and Bangladesh all facing barriers of well over 20%. The costs wont be felt equally. Tariffs arent great for the US, but trade is still a relatively small part of its economy (less than 25%), and if there is a corporate tax cut, the costs to US consumers may not be as high as feared. But such high tariffs will be catastrophic for developing countries that depend on exports. The costs could be far worse than cutting foreign aid, including eliminating USAID. Foreign aid does not have a great track record. Aside from its potential for corruption, it can distort economic decisions and actually set back development. If the goal is increasing growth and reducing poverty, export-oriented growth has historically been far more successful. Opening up to trade encourages economic activity, increases inflows of foreign capital and promotes more investment and sustainable growth. The success of the so-called Asian Tiger economies, for example, was largely because of export-driven growth. If their exports to the US now face higher prices, developing countries could face a deep depression, civil unrest and more severe poverty. It may not be in Americas interest, either. Tariffs will not cause the US to become a centre of low-skill manufacturing. And if their purpose is to force US companies to move their supply chains away from China for national security reasons, why are the best alternativessuch as Sri Lanka, Cambodia and Vietnamnow facing even higher tariffs? It is possible, of course, that this tariff policy wont be a disaster. Under the best-case scenario, the countries slapped with high tariffs would respond by cutting their own tariffs on imports. This would be difficult and controversial. It has been argued that the East Asian miracle happened in part because these countries used tariffs and subsidies to give their industries a chance to grow and become internationally competitive. This is one reason that many developing countries have high tariffs today. In most countries, however, protectionism as a tool for economic development has a mixed track record. It often does more harm than good because, like aid, it can distort economic decision-making, stifle competition and foster corruption. In general, freer trade is a better way to grow. The Indian economy, for example, could become the worlds largest if it had fewer trade restrictions. But governments dont always act rationally. And even if developing nations cut their tariffs, they would still face the USs 10% baseline tariff rate. The bottom line is that tariffs risk a global trade war with developed markets, which would be economically disastrous and erase much of the dramatic decline in worldwide poverty that was the great triumph of the late lamented neoliberal era. Bloomberg The author is a Bloomberg columnist. The Congress party will challenge the Waqf Bill in the Supreme Court of India. The announcement to this effect was made by Jairam Ramesh, the Congress party's General Secretary in-charge Communications and Rajya Sabha member. Parliament passed the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after it was approved by the Rajya Sabha early on Friday morning. The Lok Sabha had approved the Bill after over a 12-hour debate on Thursday. Also Read | Parliament passes Waqf Bill after Rajya Sabha nod The INC's challenge of the CAA, 2019 is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INC's challenge of the 2019 amendments to the RTI Act, 2005 is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INCs challenge to the validity of the amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules (2024) is being heard in the Supreme Court, Ramesh said in a post on X on Friday. In Rajya Sabha, the Bill received 128 votes in its favour and 95 against after all the amendments moved by the opposition were rejected. In the Lok Sabha, the bill was supported by 288 MPs while 232 voted against it. The Congress party's intervention to uphold the letter and spirit of the Places of Worship Act, 1991 is being heard in the Supreme Court, he said. The INC will very soon be challenging in the Supreme Court the constitutionality of the Wakf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Ramesh said We are confident and will continue to resist all assaults of the Modi Govt on the principles, provisions, and practices that are contained in the Constitution of India. Judiciary may declare it 'unconstitutional' Opposition leaders in the Parliament said that the Waqf Amendment Bill violated Constitutional principles and questioned the governments intent in bringing in the legislation. Congress party chief Mallikarjun Kharge accused Prime Minister Narendra-Modi-led Union government of taking a "negative stand." Congress Rajya Sabha MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi said that if the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 is challenged, the judiciary may declare it 'unconstitutional.' "They have misused the majority and the bill has been imposed. If the bill is challenged, there is a big chance that the judiciary will declare it unconstitutional," Abhishek Manu Singhvi said. What does Waqf Bill say? According to the Bill, Waqf tribunals would be strengthened, a structured selection process would be maintained, and a tenure would be fixed to ensure efficient dispute resolution. Waqf institutions' mandatory contribution to Waqf boards is reduced from 7 per cent to 5 per cent while Waqf institutions earning over 1 lakh will undergo audits by state-sponsored auditors, according to the provisions of the Bill. Watershed moment: PM Modi A centralised portal will automate Waqf property management, improving efficiency and transparency. The bill proposes that practising Muslims (for at least five years) can dedicate their property to the Waqf, restoring pre-2013 rules. Earlier, Prime Minister Modi lauded the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which amends the existing Waqf laws. Modi said the passage marks a watershed moment in India's collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency, and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity, Modi said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. Prime Minister Modi on Friday lauded the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which amends the existing Waqf laws. Modi said the passage marks a watershed moment in India's collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency, and inclusive growth. Parliament passed the contentious Bill after the Rajya Sabha approved it early on Friday morning. The Lok Sabha had approved the Bill after over a 12-hour debate on Thursday. Also Read | Parliament passes Waqf Bill after Rajya Sabha nod This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity, Modi said. The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a watershed moment in our collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity, Modi said in a post on X. Also Read | Opposition slams Modi Govt as Parliament passes Waqf Bill According to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Waqf tribunals will be strengthened, a structured selection process will be maintained, and a tenure will be fixed to ensure efficient dispute resolution. While Waqf institutions' mandatory contribution to Waqf boards is reduced from 7 per cent to 5 per cent, Waqf institutions earning over 1 lakh will undergo audits by state-sponsored auditors, the Bill said. In the Rajya Sabha, the Bill received 128 votes in its favour and 95 against after all the amendments moved by the opposition were rejected. In the Lok Sabha, the bill was supported by 288 MPs, while 232 voted against it. The importance of extensive debate and dialogue The PM expressed gratitude to all Members of Parliament (MPs) who participated in the Parliamentary and Committee discussions, voiced their perspectives and contributed to the strengthening of these legislations. A special thanks also to the countless people who sent their valuable inputs to the Parliamentary committee. Yet again, the importance of extensive debate and dialogue has been reaffirmed, he said in the post. Also Read | Lok Sabha sitting to clear Waqf Bill, Manipur President rule one of the longest For decades, the Waqf system was synonymous with lack of transparency and accountability, the PM said. This especially harmed the interests of Muslim women, poor Muslims, Pasmanda Muslims, he said. The legislations passed by Parliament will boost transparency and also safeguard peoples rights, he said. Opposition leaders in the Parliament have condemned the Bill saying that it violates Constitutional principles and questioned the governments intent in bringing in the legislation. Hours after Parliament passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025, AIMIM chief and MP Asaduddin Owaisi and Congress MP Mohammad Jawed moved the Supreme Court challenging the Constitutional validity of the Bill. In his petition, Congress MP Mohammad Jawed challenged the amendments to the 1995 Act governing Waqfs, claiming it violated Constitutional provisions, and said they disproportionately increase state intervention. The plea alleged the bill imposed arbitrary restrictions on Waqf properties and their management, undermining the religious autonomy of the Muslim community. What does the plea say? The petition filed by the Congress MP contests that the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, violates the Constitutional rights that are guaranteed under Articles 14 (right to equality), 25 (freedom to practice religion), 26 (freedom to manage religious affairs), 29 (minority rights) and 300A (right to property). The Congress MP contends that non-Muslim trusts enjoy a certain degree of self-regulation but the amendments to the Wakf Act, 1995 (Wakf Act), disproportionately increases state intervention in Waqf affairs. Such differential treatment amounts to a violation of Article 14 in addition to introduction of arbitrary classifications that lack a reasonable nexus to the objectives sought to be achieved, making it impermissible under the doctrine of manifest arbitrariness. Speaking with ANI after moving the Supreme Court, Mohammad Jawed said, Several people in India will file this petition, several parties will do this. In Parliament, everyone in the Opposition said that this is unconstitutional. This is a religious body - you are providing freedom to non-Muslims...How can you snatch away our right?..How can you do this violation? If you have numbers, it doesn't mean you get passed anything you passed and do something unlawful...We have challenged this. We hope that Supreme Court will take cognizance of this and this will be repealed (Bill) at the earliest. Microsoft marked its 50th anniversary in a rather unconventional manner, with its artificial intelligence (AI) assistant, Copilot, taking centre stage to roast three of the companys most iconic leadersBill Gates, Steve Ballmer, and current CEO Satya Nadella. The lighthearted exchange was shared on social media by Nadella himself, offering a humorous and self-aware moment for the tech giant. Copilot turns comedian The video posted by Nadella on X featured the three tech moguls sitting together as Copilot took on the role of a playful critic. Nadella prompted the AI to conclude the session, and Copilot, embracing the challenge, kicked off its roasting session with an enthusiastic, Alright, Satya. Let's spice it up. First in the firing line was Steve Ballmer, renowned for his high-energy speeches and enthusiastic stage presence. Copilot quipped: Steve, well start with you. Your enthusiasm is legendary, but do you ever worry that your energy might short-circuit the AI? I mean, even robots need a coffee break after your pep talks. Ballmer, ever the showman, laughed and retorted: Come on, dude. If you can't handle me, you can't handle a huge percentage of the world's population. We're counting on you. Bill Gates takes a hit Next up was Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, who was playfully teased for his intense, contemplative gaze. Copilot remarked: Now, Bill, you've got that signature thoughtful stare, but do you ever think the AI might feel intimidated by your intense thinking face? I mean, its like it's waiting for a blue screen moment. Gates, quick-witted as ever, responded: I hope so. I mean, thats all Ive got left as these AIs get so damn intelligent. Its just that stare and my willingness to criticise that differentiates me. Adding to the banter, Ballmer turned to the AI and asked whether it would ever be willing to criticise Gates. Copilot confidently replied: Absolutely. Criticism is where growth happens. Satya Nadella faces AIs ironic warning Finally, Copilot turned its focus to the man currently leading the charge at Microsoft, Satya Nadella. Picking up on a broader societal concern about AI taking over, Copilot remarked: Satya, AI seems to be your best buddy. But ever worry that your deep passion for AI could one day have it running the show, leaving you to just enjoy the ride? Nadella responded with a cricket analogy, saying: Well, the day AI can play like the best cricket player that I enjoy, thats the day it can run the show as far as Im concerned. Copilot then played along, responding: Touche, Satya. Lets see if it can hit a century in cricket, and then well talk. Easter Celebrations at Hotels Across Asia Egg-citing Times Ahead This Easter in Hong Kong The Hari Hong Kong will mark Easter from April 18-21 with brunches and set dinners at Italian ristorante Lucciola and Japanese restaurant Zoku, and a family room package. A seafood platter is a highlight of Lucciolas brunch menu priced from HK$488 per person. Zokus brunch menu includes a moriawase sashimi platter and starts from HK$568 per person. Brunch and free-flow packages are served from noon until 2pm. Lucciolas set dinner menu, from HK$568 per person, features options such as handmade spaghetti pasta with lobster tail, lemon, and basil sauce. Zokus set dinner menu from HK$688 per person includes ichya boshi with charcoal threadfin fish and daikon oroshi. Coupled with wines and sakes, the set dinners are staged 6-10pm. Underscored by a stay in a Corner Room with a king bed with an adjoining Twin Room with twin beds, Better Together Family Package starts from HK$4,500 per night with daily breakfast for two adults and two children under 12, a DIY Confetti Madeleines Set in the room and The Hari Puzzle Set with The Hari branded tram, Star Ferry or The Hari mascot. Stylish Easter Meals in Southern and Central Vietnam Celebrate Easter in style at Azerai La Residence, Hue in historic central Vietnam and Azerai Ke Ga Bay along the picturesque southern coast. These sophisticated and elegant hotels have unveiled exclusive dining options and more for Easter Sunday. At Azerai La Residence, Hue, a regal set menu (priced at VND 1,200,000++ per person and served from April 19-21) features Mini Banh Beo Royale with Caviar, Smoked Duck and Mango Salad, Herb-Crusted Lamb Rack or Pan-Seared Sea Bass, and Dark Chocolate Easter Egg Mousse. An optional wine pairing can be added for VND 1,000,000++. Meanwhile, Azerai Ke Ga Bay offers two distinct set menus. The Western set (VND 990,000++ per person) includes as highlights Mango Gazpacho and Pan-Seared Salmon, while the Vietnamese option (VND 650,000++ per person, minimum two persons) features Grilled Sea Scallop with Spring Onion, Crab Meat Dragon Fruit Salad, Grilled Ke Ga Bay Fish in Banana Leaves and more. Azerai also offers a fun Easter egg hunt for kids, an Easter egg decorating class, and family-friendly outdoor games. Sumptuous Champagne Brunches in Cambodia Raffles Grand Hotel dAngkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia, invites guests to celebrate Easter Sunday with an exquisite Champagne Brunch at Cafe dAngkor on April 20 from 12pm-pm. This indulgent dining event features a special highlight from the renowned local Janvier Patisserie: a trompe lil dessert, blending artistry and flavour. Priced at $60++ per person for food only, guests can elevate their experience with an additional $35++ for unlimited Champagne, wines and Mimosas. Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, meanwhile, will host a lavish Easter Lobby Brunch with live music and a festive buffet spread. The exclusive culinary experience is priced at $55++ for food only, with an additional $45++ for unlimited Champagne and wines. The luxury heritage hotel will also host an Easter egg making class on April 19 from 3-5pm at Le Phnom 1929, priced at $28++ per person. The class includes an Easter afternoon tea buffet. Easter-Themed High Tea in the Vietnamese Capital Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has launched an Easter-themed high tea thats served in the 124-year-old luxury hotels sophisticated Le Club Bar. The elegant food tray, available from April 1, features a tropical fruit salad, a rich chocolate sphere with white chocolate mousse and dried cranberry, and a Choux with chestnut cream and pink chocolate dip. Other sweet treats include a mixed strawberry and vanilla macaron. Savoury banh-mi-style sandwiches include mushroom and cream cheese, duck rillettes with orange sauce, and poached prawn with avocado and cocktail sauce. The new Easter-themed high tea service includes a refined selection of world-class fine coffees, teas, and more. Fun For the Whole Family This Easter in Cam Ranh Chocolate Easter making and decorating classes, an Easter egg scavenger hunt, Easter egg painting and Easter card making are among the array of activities on offer on April 20 at Alma Resort Cam Ranh. Alma Garden will serve a buffet breakfast with Easter-themed items including egg bread, bunny-shaped bread, chocolate bunnies, cupcakes and more, and Italian restaurant La Casa will offer an Easter menu from 5.30-9.30pm. In addition to egg coffee and Easter items in the French Bakery at Alma Food Court, American Lounge and Bar will concoct special Easter cocktails and the Pastry Kitchen will host the chocolate Easter making and decorating class for a minimum of three kids. The Kids Club will offer all sorts of activities ranging from a gardening exploration tour to face painting. Kite flying and outdoor games for the family will be held on the lawn. Alma Cinema will also screen Easter movies. Good tidings from Longfords Twin Noyal will be making their way across the sea very soon. Cathaoirleach of the Longford Municipal District Seamus Butler announced that a statue, identical to the one standing in Noyal Chatillon Sur Seiche. Longford Town and Noyal have been twin towns since 1988. Last year members of the local community visited the French town to witness the unveiling of the original statue. The last visit was 18 months ago or so, said Cllr Seamus Butler, There was a statue unveiling called the Fraternity Statue. The statue was sculpted by an artist local to the area called Maxime Libiot. Also Read: Longford councillors have varying views over Dog Park What theyve done is commissioned the artist to do a similar statue, or practically the same one to donate to Longford. The council had two decisions to make regarding the statue, one being where to put it, many ideas were put forward. Theyre coming on Wednesday, April 9. The statue is to be brought over by ferry by the artist. Councillor Gerry Hagan suggested a location, which seemed to rustle the chamber. I think this would be a fantastic piece to have in the centre of our town when we eventually get the Providers building demolished. Also Read: Almost 30k worth of narcotics seized by Longford Gardai Cllr Butler asked if it would be ready for April 10 to which Cllr Hagan replied it would not. No I cant imagine it will now but we can temporarily re-locate it someplace. I wouldnt expect wed have providers demolished before then. When we get to the area thats left we can install this beautiful statue on it. The rest of the council had differing ideas. Councillor Peggy Nolan spoke next, As you know Ive been involved with the twinning for over 30 years since it started. I see the trouble the artist is going through, first of all, to provide us with the statue and the trouble theyre going through to transport it to Longford. And I fully see where Gerry is coming from and as my colleague, I dont want to talk him down, she clarified, I see the realities, Providers is what Providers is. Also Read: Tight battle: Three candidates in race to fill Fine Gael seat on Longford county council She then put forward her suggestion for the statue's home. The Mall, maybe even the Dog Track someplace in a park where people can see it, where it can be admired and the sentiment behind the statue can be appreciated. Let common sense prevail, she concluded. Cllr Kevin Hussey seconded her suggestion. The dog track in my mind is not finished yet but the skate park is done and the playground is done, if its a wooden piece, maybe it might blend well in that area. Cllr Hagan made a final point saying, I suppose that this is a temporary location and that we can look at alternative locations at a later date. It was decided that the Dog Track would be the best place for the sculpture. Landscaping will be done and an unveiling ceremony will take place in the afternoon on April 10. Two Lanesboro neighbours arrested last April following an ongoing dispute will return before Judge Bernadette Owens at Longford District Court in June. Michael Fox (45) of 20 Cnoc na Gaoithe, Lanesboro, Longford and Ovitta Chinenya (38) of 16 Cnoc na Gaoithe, Lanesboro, Longford were both arrested on April 28 2024. Mr Fox was charged with the unlawful damage of a front door, engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour, and possession of an iron bar. Mr Chinenya was charged with possession of a blade with a sharp point. Prosecution witness Garda Vincent O'Leary told the court that on Monday, April 28, 2024 at 10:30pm he received a call reporting that Mr Fox was shouting abuse at her out a window. The officer said this call was related to an ongoing issue in the estate and the complainant asked Garda O'Leary if he could have a word with the defendant. The witness said 20 minutes later he arrived at Cnoc na Gaoithe and drove into the cul de sac. Garda O'Leary observed Mr Fox come from his home at number 20 and go towards number 16. The window of the patrol car was open and he called the defendant to stop. Also Read:Longford councillors have varying views over Dog Park The officer described how Mr Fox had a two foot long iron bar, part of a scaffolding pole, and banged on the door of number 16: All of this happened while I was shouting at him to desist, Garda O'Leary told the court. As the witness got out of the patrol car the defendant approached: He came toward me brandishing the bar, I directed him to drop it, he said 'What are you going to do about it', I warned him I was going to pepper spray and arrest him. Garda O'Leary said initially Mr Fox went to return home, but then turned back toward the officer in a threatening manner. I pepper sprayed him, the officer said, While doing this I directed him to drop the iron bar. When he did not I struck him on the wrist with my baton and he dropped the bar. There was a strong smell of alcohol from him. I then handcuffed and arrested him. Also Read: Failures: HIQA inspection report highlights 'significant decline' at Longford care centre Garda O'Leary presented the iron pole wielded by Mr Fox as a court exhibit. The officer told Judge Owens that the next morning Mr Fox made a full admission in an interview about the incident. In that interview Mr Fox claimed another party, Mr Chinenya who appeared later in the court list, had come to his house first with two knives. Inspector David Jordan, presenting the case for the prosecution, told the judge Mr Fox had eight previous convictions, but four were for road traffic matters. Solicitor Brid Mimnagh said her client had struggled with mental health issues, but was off his medication at the time of the altercation. Ms Mimnagh said the father of two has been living in the area for four years, and wished to apologise for his behaviour. Ms Mimnagh emphasised there was no racial motivation in the conflict. Also Read: Almost 30k worth of narcotics seized by Longford Gardai Judge Owens said before she finalised the matter she would direct the preparation of a probation report. The matter was then listed to return before the District Court in Longford on July 15, 2025. Later Judge Owens heard the prosecution case against Ovitta Chinenya. The charge against Mr Chinenya was that he was in possession of a blade with a sharp point on April 28 2024 at the Cnoc na Gaoithe estate in Lanesboro. At the outset of the case solicitor Frank Gearty told the judge his client accepted all aspects of the incident, but the matter was listed for hearing to ascertain if his client's actions were criminal. Garda O'Leary also presented the evidence in respect of this prosecution. He explained that the initial call came in the context of 20 other previously reported disturbances in the estate. The Garda said as he arrested Mr Fox, placing him in handcuffs, he looked up and saw Mr Chinenya coming out of number 16. This defendant had two knives in his hand. The officer still had his baton drawn. He told the approaching male to stop and drop his knives: After I issued a series of directions he did drop the knives. I then directed him to return to his home, and he complied, Garda O'Leary said. When assistance arrived from Ballymahon and Longford and Mr Fox was secured in a patrol car Garda O'Leary went to Mr Chinenya's home. There he arrested the defendant: I then secured the knives. Mr Chinenya was brought to Longford Garda Station, where he was detained by the member in charge at 1:25am. In an interview later that morning he made a full admission. The defendant took to the witness box to give his account of the incident. Mr Gearty asked his client if he had lost his cool: I certainly did. I have a little boy, when I heard the bang on the door I ran downstairs, my baby was crying, so I went to defend my home. I know it was wrong. Then the legal representative asked: Have you learned not to do so? Absolutely, Mr Chinenya responded, I acted out of rage. I will avoid it and stay away in the future. The witness thanked Garda O'Leary for his promptness in responding to the initial call about the disturbance at the estate. In summing up the issue Judge Owens noted the defendant was in no immediate danger and did not need to open the door and come out with knives: I am not satisfied this was a case of self defence, the judge said. Mr Gearty said his client accepted the judge's assessment. He told the judge Mr Chinenya is originally from Malawi and has been in a relationship with his partner for five years. He has made his home in Ireland and works full time. He has learned a salutary lesson. He had taken the advice of Garda O'Leary fully onboard. He was frank and open in his interview, Mr Gearty explained. Judge Owens outlined her final decision would be made on June 10, 2025, but directed that Mr Chinenya participate in a restorative justice programme before that date. The judge also directed the defendant to make a payment of 750 to the Little Blue Heroes charity. Before concluding matters the judge commended Garda O'Leary on restraint, huge composure and courage on the day. A man who rented out properties in Longford town and Ballymahon under false pretences and used them as brothels has been jailed for nine years. Ilamar Rodrigues Ribeiro (54) was arrested by investigating gardai from the Garda Human Trafficking and Co-ordination Unit when he returned to Ireland from his native Brazil after a period of time abroad, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard. Ribeiro, of Rua Nely Augusta Gomes, Goais, Brazil, had been under investigation after a number of rental properties being used as brothels around the country were linked to him, along with nearly 800,000 in proceeds of crime across multiple Irish bank accounts. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to 19 sample counts, including using false instruments, inducing landlords to rent properties to him, brothel-keeping and possession of the proceeds of crime. They are offences that carry maximum sentences of between five and 14 years, the court heard. He also pleaded guilty to possession of child sexual abuse material, known in law as child pornography, which was discovered on his phone when he was arrested at Dublin Airport on November 16, 2023. Also Read: Longford Woman with a tremendous work ethic laid to rest The offending on the 60-count indictment spanned from 2010 to 2023, the court heard. Ribeiro has been in custody since his arrest. Sentencing Ribeiro (on Wednesday, March 26) Judge Patricia Ryan noted that he has previous convictions for fraud both from France and the UK. She acknowledged that his plea to the charges were valuable to the State. Judge Ryan said that many of the offences involved elaborate planning and pre-meditation and said that considerable sums of money, a total of 788,982, were involved in the money laundering offence. The judge noted that Ribeiro accepted ownership of the accounts connected to the money laundering and that the accounts were held in his own name. Also Read: Longford councillors have varying views over Dog Park In relation to the possession of child abuse material, the judge observed that there was no distribution of the images, but said the images did fall into the most serious form of child abuse material. Judge Ryan imposed a global sentence of 10 and half years in prison, which involved consecutive terms. She suspended the final 18 months of the term on strict conditions for three years and backdated the sentence to when Ribeiro first went into custody in November 2023. At an earlier sentence hearing, Detective Garda Vanessa Stafford of the Garda Human Trafficking and Co-ordination Unit told Fiona McGowan BL, prosecuting, that the charges against Ribeiro were part of a wider investigation after two women came forward to gardai with allegations of trafficking. Also Read: Failures: HIQA inspection report highlights 'significant decline' at Longford care centre These two women identified rental properties around rural Ireland being used as brothels, while others were linked to Ribeiro's email address and phone number. When investigating gardai knocked on the doors of some of these properties, the women who answered identified themselves as sex workers, the court heard. Gardai linked 10 rental properties to Ribeiro, who used a different name from a fake Italian passport and fake utility bills to rent out the property from unsuspecting landlords and, in one case, a property agent. The court heard the landlords told gardai they would never have rented the property to Ribeiro if they had known what it would be used for. The properties used as brothels were located in Longford town, Ballymahon, Kildare town, Ballyconnell in Co Cavan, Enniscorthy in Co Wexford, Ballaghadereen in Co Roscommon, Carrick on Shannon in Co Leitrim, and Tullow, Co Carlow. A further two were located in Roscommon town. Also Read: Almost 30k worth of narcotics seized by Longford Gardai The properties were rented out for varying periods of time between 2018 and 2023. Bank accounts in Ribeiro's name or under his control were forensically analysed and found to contain a total of 788,982 which was deemed to be the proceeds of crime. The court heard Ribeiro was out of the country for some years between 2021 and 2023, but was arrested upon flying back in November 2023. The child abuse material on his phone comprised nine images and 16 videos, mostly of pre-pubescent girls and boys being made to engage in sexual activity with adults. Also Read: Tight battle: Three candidates in race to fill Fine Gael seat on Longford county council The court heard the images and videos all fell into category one, which is the most serious form of child abuse material. Padraig Dwyer SC, defending, told the court his client arrived in the country in 2009. He has two teenage children who reside in Brazil and who he minds at the weekends when he is resident in that country, he said. Defence counsel said there was no evidence in relation to where in the pecking order Ribeiro had in the organisation, and that he was just one part of it. By Long Island Published: April 04 2025 Suffolk County Police responded to community complaints about reckless driving at a car meet in Mt. Sinai's Cedar Beach parking lot on April 3, 2025, at 10:45 PM. Participants were performing "burnouts" and attempting street ... Suffolk County Police cited three drivers for reckless driving at a car meet last night in Mt. Sinai. In response to community complaints, Sixth Precinct officers, in conjunction with Brookhaven Town Public Safety Officers, responded to the scene of a car meet up at the Cedar Beach parking lot on Harbor Beach Road at approximately 10:45 p.m. The drivers were doing burnouts with their vehicles and attempting to participate in a street race. When police arrived, multiple drivers fled and attempted to flee the scene in their vehicles. Three drivers were stopped and issued a total of 23 summonses. Dezarae Manzanares, 19, of Rocky Point, Anthony Rojas, 18, of Coram, and a 17-year-old male driver were issued summonses for Trespass and Loitering, along with multiple other vehicle and traffic infractions. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: April 04 2025 Each semifinalist excelled in the competition and earned $2,000 prizes and an additional $2,000 award to advance science education at their respective schools. During a recent meeting of the full Nassau County Legislature, Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) joined with his colleagues in honoring Nassau Countys Regeneron Science Talent Search semifinalists and finalists. Deputy Minority Leader Drucker had the privilege of welcoming a total of seven semifinalists to the Peter J. Schmitt Memorial Chamber of the Theodore Roosevelt and Executive Building each of whom excelled in the competition and earned $2,000 prizes and an additional $2,000 award to advance science education at their respective schools. The Legislative District 16 semifinalists are: Jericho High School - Jun Chen (Role of Active Vitamin D on Reserved Intestinal Stem Cells), Keita Takahashi (Mechanisms of KN1 mRNA Transport in Arabidopsis thaliana) and Natalie Tehrani (Optimizing Real-Time Interictal Epileptiform Discharge Detection Through the Implementation of a Hilbert Transformer) Syosset High School - Michael Ren (Repurposing MALDI-TOF MS for Effective Antibiotic Resistance Screening in Staphylococcus epidermidis Using Machine Learning) and Winston Zhou (Discrete Wavelet Multiview-Based Parallel Hybrid Deep Learning Model for Forecasting El NinoSouthern Oscillation Cycles) Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School Chloe Yerin Lee (Exploring the Effects of Cannabidiol-Medium Triglyceride Oil on Locomotion and Tap Withdrawal Response Using Caenorhabditis elegans as a Model for Alzheimers Disease) The Wheatley School Alaina Brooke Pinto (Visualizing the Impact of Interleukin-32 on Tight Junction Integrity and Nuclear Morphology From Glioblastoma Metastasis in Human Endothelial Cells) Nassau Countys schools are among New York State and Americas best, and our commitment to education is rewarded each year by the outstanding achievements of our students in the Regeneron Science Talent Search, Deputy Minority Leader Drucker said. It fills my heart with pride and hope to see how these impressive young scholars immerse themselves in their research and their enthusiastic pursuit of knowledge has the power to change the course of human history for the better. I congratulate each of these outstanding scholars and wish them all the best in their future endeavors! Local News By Chris Boyle Published: April 03 2025 Governor Signs Three New Laws Strengthening New York's Gun Violence Protections. Governor Kathy Hochul today signed three new laws to strengthen New Yorks gun violence prevention efforts and keep New Yorkers safe. The Governor also unveiled new data showing a 53 percent decline in gun violence year-to-date, when compared to pandemic-era highs. As part of this years Budget, Governor Hochul is proposing a significant $370 million investment to fight gun violence and keep driving down crime. Were taking action to drive down gun violence in the State of New York protecting our communities and making our streets safer, Governor Hochul said. Public safety is my number one priority, and by giving law enforcement additional tools to stop gun violence in its tracks, were building on our promise to put the safety of New Yorkers first. In 2025, shootings have declined 53 percent year-to-date when compared to pandemic-era highs three years ago: from 497 shootings statewide from January to March of 2022 to 236 shootings statewide from January to March of this year. Earlier this year, Governor Hochul announced that gun violence declined to the lowest levels on record in the 28 communities participating in the States Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative including Rochester, Syracuse and Yonkers and the NYPD announced declines in shootings in New York City as well. Legislation S.744/A.436 will ensure there are penalties for using pistol converters, which are rapid-fire modification devices that can be easily attached to semi-automatic pistols to make them even deadlier by allowing rapid fire with one pull of the trigger. State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, Rapid-fire modification devices are capable of transforming firearms into fully automatic machine guns and are not permitted in New York State. These rapid-fire modification devices include a wide range of gun modification devices including bump stocks, trigger cranks, and burst trigger systems. The legislation Governor Hochul is signing today makes it explicitly clear that pistol converters, also known as auto-sears, which can be used to make traditional pistols fire as many as 15 rounds in under two seconds, are a subset of rapid-fire modification devices and should be treated as such under New York State Law. Im grateful to Governor Hochul, Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and my colleagues throughout the Legislature who once again are standing up to the gun lobby to make New York a safer place. Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon said, New Yorkers are sick of weapons manufacturers ignoring their role in the gun violence epidemic. For decades, Glock has known that its pistols can be easily and cheaply converted into illegal fully-automatic machine guns. Its time to put people over profit. My first-in-the-nation bill has been signed into law, holding Glock and Glock-like gun manufacturers accountable for failing to prevent this easy conversion to illegal machine guns. Thank you to Governor Hochul for signing my bill, my partner Senator Hoylman-Sigal, and the advocates for working to prevent gun violence. Legislation S.745/A.439 will strengthen the law that the Governor signed last year that requires credit and debit card issuers to use the merchant category code (MCC) for firearms and ammunition retailers by ensuring that it captures retailers whose bulk sales come from firearms, ammunition and firearms accessories. State Senator Zellnor Myrie said, Since 2019, New York has been a national leader in taking on gun violence- and the laws Governor Hochul is signing today continues that progress. While the federal government turns a blind eye to the gun crime plaguing our communities, New York can show the way forward by passing new laws to stop the sale of weapons that can be converted into machine guns, centralize our gun violence prevention efforts, and standardize our response to mass shooting incidents wherever they occur. Assemblymember Michaelle Solages said, With todays signing, Governor Hochul is taking a bold step to protect New Yorkers from gun violence. By requiring the use of merchant category codes for firearm and ammunition purchases, we are equipping financial institutions with a critical tool to help detect suspicious activity before it becomes a tragedy. This is a smart, data-driven approach to public safety, and Im proud to lead the way with Senator Myrie and dedicated advocates. Legislation S.743/A.437 strengthens the law the Governor signed last year that requires firearms dealers and gunsmiths to post and distribute at the time of sale information about the availability of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and warnings about the dangers of gun ownership, including increased risk of suicide, death during domestic disputes and unintentional death of children, household members and others. By providing consumers with this Surgeon General style warning, the law aims to promote the health and safety of the general public by educating and informing gun owners and potential buyers of the risks the weapons pose. State Senator Michael Gianaris said, Education and information are key to responsible gun ownership, which will prevent injury and improve public safety. I am proud to have shepherded this proposal through the Senate and to now see it enacted into law. Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz said, It is without question that there are enormous risks associated with gun ownership. By requiring firearm dealers and licensing officers to provide clear and accessible warnings about the heightened risks of suicide, domestic violence, and unintentional deaths, we are aiding people in becoming fully informed about the dangers of gun ownership while at the same time taking measures to help safeguard our communities. The inclusion of a prominently displayed 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will make it easier for those in distress to access avenues of assistance when they are at their most vulnerable. I want to thank Governor Hochul for signing this entire package of bills into law and my colleague, Senator Mike Gianaris, for partnering with me on this legislation which demonstrates New Yorks commitment to promoting responsible firearm ownership while protecting public health and safety. Assemblymember Harvey Epstein said, It is critical that we address the gun violence epidemic in our state and nation. So many lives have been lost as a result of our failure to pass common-sense gun regulations. Today I am happy to join Governor Hochul as we pass this package of legislation that will make our state safer. Assemblymember Tony Simone said, We are in the midst of a mental health crisis and a gun violence epidemic, and we must do everything in our power as lawmakers to combat it. We can begin by passing common-sense anti gun-violence measures, which a vast majority of gun owners support and want, which is what these three bills signed today are. I am proud to stand with Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the legislature in our resoluteness to solve these epidemics playing out in our communities. The $370 million investment to reduce and prevent gun violence and strengthen communities disproportionately impacted by crime includes, but is not limited to, the following programs and initiatives administered by DCJS: $50 million through the Law Enforcement Technology grant program, which provides funding so police departments and sheriffs offices can purchase new equipment and technology to modernize their operations and more effectively solve and prevent crime. $36 million for GIVE, which funds the 28 police departments and district attorneys offices, probation departments and sheriffs offices in 21 counties outside of New York City. $21 million for the SNUG Street Outreach Program, which operates in 14 communities across the state: Albany, the Bronx, Buffalo, Hempstead, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Niagara Falls, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Syracuse, Troy, Utica, Wyandanch and Yonkers. The program uses a public health approach to address gun violence by identifying the source, interrupting transmission, and treating individuals, families and communities affected by the violence. $18 million in continued support for the States unique, nationally recognized Crime Analysis Center Network, and $13 million in new funding to establish the New York State Crime Analysis and Joint Special Operations Command Headquarters, a strategic information, technical assistance and training hub for 11 Centers in the States network and enhance existing partnerships and expand information sharing with the New York State Intelligence Center operated by the State Police, the locally run Nassau County Lead Development Center and the States Joint Security Operations Center, which focuses on protecting the State from cyber threats. $20 million for Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain, Empower) in 10 communities to support mentoring, mental health services, restorative practices, trust building, employment and education support and youth development activities, among other programs and services that address trauma resulting from long-term exposure to violence, build resilience and strengthen youth, families and neighborhoods. The New York State Police, the State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and the State Office of Victim Services also will receive funding through that $370 million allocation. Other public safety initiatives outlined in Governor Hochuls FY26 Executive Budget include $35 million for the next round of the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grants to increase safety and security of organizations at risk of hate crimes or attacks because of their ideology, beliefs or mission; or investments that expand support for victims and survivors of crime, including doubling funding for rape crisis centers to $12.8 million. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: April 03 2025 Suffolk Countys Active People, Healthy New York Action Plan moves forward, encourages physical activity in safe, green spaces. Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine today announced the opening of applications for the 2025 Green Key Parking Permit Program with Local Libraries, or Green Key PPP. The program is part of Suffolk Countys three-part plan to engage residents in physical activity, increase access to public green spaces, and educate residents to improve the overall health of the Suffolk County. To encourage physical activity in safe green spaces, County Executive Romaine last year authorized county health officials and county parks officials to collaborate with the Suffolk Cooperative Library System to offer residents one-time Green Key parking permits through their local libraries. Suffolk County libraries interested in participating in the pilot program will be offered the opportunity to purchase a pack of twenty-five parking permits for $125. Beginning in April 2025, Library patrons will have the opportunity to purchase, for $5, a one-time parking pass to visit one of 10 Suffolk County parks on a date of their choice. In Suffolk County, we are blessed with an extensive network of beautiful parks where residents and visitors can engage in myriad activities, said Executive Romaine. We are inviting residents to take advantage of this offer to experience one of our Suffolk County parks one time for a generously discounted fee. Library patrons who take advantage of the Suffolk County Library Parking Permit Pilot Program will enjoy a first-hand experience of a county park for a day and may decide that purchasing a Parks Green Key Card is a worthwhile investment. The Green Key Card entitles holders access to all Suffolk County parks and reduced fees for activities. This pilot program is intended to get people moving to reduce their risk serious chronic illnesses, said Dr. Gregson Pigott, Suffolk County Health Commissioner. We hope to engage all communities to visit their local parks and participate in activities they may not know are available to them as Suffolk County residents. The Parks department is happy to partner with the Suffolk County Health department and local libraries with the new Parking Permit Pilot Program. The County has amazing natural resources, and our hope is that residents get out and explore what they have right in their own backyard said Commissioner Giannott, Our goal is for residents to discover places they may not have ventured to in the past and enjoy Suffolk County for all it has to offer. Libraries are all about connecting people to resources that benefit them. We look forward to partnering with Suffolk County to assist local residents with exercising their minds at our Countys amazing libraries and their bodies are our Countys beautiful parks said Suffolk Cooperative Library System Director Kevin Verbesey. As part of the pilot program and to better understand the communities we serve, Suffolk County officials will collect data, report, and formulate recommendations for the future. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: April 04 2025 Furthers Governor Hochuls Commitment to New Yorks Leadership in AI Research to Advance Public Good. Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that eight SUNY campuses are developing departments, centers, and institutes of AI and Society to engage diverse disciplines and communities, broaden AI development to prepare students for the future and advance the use of AI for the public good. Through this program, the state has provided $5 million in funding to foster collaboration across disciplines to promote inclusive AI research, to address ethical concerns in the use of AI, and to advance responsible data use. The progression of AI research in New York State is going to inspire other states to follow our path, Governor Hochul said. Investing in AI within the SUNY system is an investment in our students to expand their knowledge about what the future will bring. We are not just preparing students for AI were shaping how AI serves society, ensuring it strengthens communities and our economy. Investments announced today will launch the following projects: University at Albany- Launching a new AI & Society College & Research Center Binghamton University- Creating the Institute for AI and Society University at Buffalo- Creating the Department of AI and Society SUNY Downstate- Establishing the Global Center for AI, Society and Mental Health SUNY ESF- Establishing the Center for Artificial Intelligence, Society, and the Environment (AISE) (seed funding) SUNY Poly- Developing an Institute for AI and Society (seed funding) Stony Brook University- Creating the Department of Technology, AI and Society Upstate Medical- Forming the AI for Health Equity, Analytics, and Diagnostics (AHEAD) Center (seed funding) SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, Thanks to Governor Hochuls leadership, SUNY researchers, faculty, and students are leading the way in using AI to advance the public good. SUNYs commitment to academic excellence includes making it possible for students from a wide range of disciplines to come together, explore new ideas, and develop the skills that will lead to lifelong success. SUNY Board Trustee Courtney Burke said, As SUNY and the State of New York continue to invest in AI research for public good, these grants will allow our campuses a vital opportunity to expand their existing AI programs and further stretch the advantages of AI on and off campus. The SUNY Board of Trustees looks forward to witnessing the impact of this investment on each campus selected. SUNY is delivering on Governor Hochuls vision of artificial intelligence for the public good. Projects are up and running at the first alpha phase of the Empire AI computing center, housed at University at Buffalo (UB) and Empire AI brings together researchers from SUNYs four University Centers the University at Albany, Binghamton University, UB, and Stony Brook University as well as the City University of New York, Cornell University, Columbia University, New York University, the Flatiron Institute, and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Governor Hochuls FY2026 Executive Budget provides additional resources to expand Empire AIs computing capacity and provide additional computing resources for SUNY researchers. Early SUNY projects include: Binghamton University is conducting research on large language models and antisemitism on social media in order to detect hateful content. Another project is on 3D foundation models for high-throughput characterization of metal-organic frameworks for climate change applications. A team at UB is working on a comprehensive solution to characterize and treat every disease. Stony Brook University researchers have a project on transforming how vaccines are developed by creating an innovative AI-driven platform for antigen design. In addition, SUNY has also updated its General Education Framework to incorporate AI as part of the Information Literacy core competency. Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, New York State is the heart of innovation, and thanks to Governor Hochuls leadership, ESD is investing in the industries like artificial intelligence that will power the Empire States long-term economy. SUNYs funding for dedicated departments to advance AI & Society will help ensure the benefits of this revolutionary technology are used to foster positive interdisciplinary collaboration and problem-solving, promote the public good, and support inclusive economic opportunity for all New Yorkers. State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, Artificial intelligence is the technology of the future and its impact on society will be transformative in ways that we can only imagine. By providing funding to launch the Departments on AI and Society at eight different SUNY campuses, we guarantee that New York will be at the forefront of the development of AI and its subsequent research will be conducted in an ethical and responsible manner. I applaud Governor Hochul and Chancellor King for the first in the nation plan to ensure AI serves the public good. State Senator Kristin Gonzalez said, Thank you to SUNY and Governor Hochul for reaffirming New York States commitment to advancing AI initiatives that serve the public good, ensuring ethical innovation and inclusive progress. Im really excited for the insights and work from the new Departments of AI and Society that will help shape a future where technology enriches and strengthens communities. Assemblymember Steve Otis said, Through the leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, SUNY Chancellor John King, and the State Legislature, New York State is leading the nation in public purpose focused AI research and development. The Empire AI Consortium is an innovative model for prioritizing public benefit projects and research in AI development. SUNY has been a leader in AI for many years and is at the forefront of taking AI to the next level. We must continue to support funding for these initiatives. Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman said, SUNYs commitment to advancing artificial intelligence for the public good is a critical step in ensuring that emerging technologies are used responsibly and equitably. Under Governor Hochuls leadership, these investments in AI research and education will not only drive innovation but also help address pressing societal challenges from combating online hate to improving healthcare solutions. With the rapid rise of AI, it is essential that we learn how to better understand and harness its potential to advance our state. I applaud Chancellor King and SUNY for fostering interdisciplinary collaboration that will prepare our students for the future while ensuring AI serves all communities fairly and ethically. About The State University of New York The State University of New York is the largest comprehensive system of higher education in the United States, and more than 95 percent of all New Yorkers live within 30 miles of any one of SUNYs 64 colleges and universities. Across the system, SUNY has four academic health centers, five hospitals, four medical schools, two dental schools, a law school, the countrys oldest school of maritime, the states only college of optometry, and manages one US Department of Energy National Laboratory. In total, SUNY serves about 1.4 million students amongst its entire portfolio of credit- and non-credit-bearing courses and programs, continuing education, and community outreach programs. SUNY oversees nearly a quarter of academic research in New York. Research expenditures system-wide are nearly $1.16 billion in fiscal year 2024, including significant contributions from students and faculty. There are more than three million SUNY alumni worldwide, and one in three New Yorkers with a college degree is a SUNY alum. To learn more about how SUNY creates opportunities, visit their website. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: April 04 2025 Baron Anderson, 58, of Hempstead, was transported to South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, for treatment of serious injuries. Suffolk County Police Third Squad detectives are investigating a motor vehicle crash that seriously injured a pedestrian in Bay Shore on the morning of Friday, April 4. Baron Anderson was crossing Pine Aire Drive, near Corbin Avenue, when he was struck by a 2025 Mack truck, driven by Carlos Riccardo Perez Brenes, at approximately 6:30 a.m. Anderson, 58, of Hempstead, was transported to South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, for treatment of serious injuries. Perez Brenes, 43, of New Jersey, was not injured. Officers from the Motor Carrier Safety Section responded to inspect the vehicle. Breast implants that were banned in France in 2019 because they were associated with a rare type of cancer continue to be used in Luxembourg, the health minister has said. In response to a parliamentary question from dei Greng MP Djuna Bernard, Health Minister Martine Deprez confirmed that macrotexturised and polyurethane prostheses have been used in recent years, although the number is small compared to the total number of implants. Between 2019 and 2024, the four hospital centres in Luxembourg used macrotextured or textured prostheses in 78 cases, while polyurethane prostheses were used in 19. The numbers are low compared to the total of 2,144 breast implant operations carried out in Luxembourg hospitals between 2018 and 2023, comprising 884 for aesthetic reasons and 1,260 for reconstruction due to breast cancer. Bernard pointed out that in 2019, neighbouring France banned macrotextured and polyurethane implants because they were associated with cases of anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Following the French decision, macrotexturised implants produced by the Allergan company lost their CE (European Conformity) label at the end of 2019, making it impossible to market them in the European Union, although other brands continue to sell macrotexturised implants. In March 2021, the dei Greng deputy said, the European Commission's Scientific Committee on Health, Environmental and Emerging Risks published a final opinion on macrotexturised prostheses, concluding that there is a moderate level of relationship between these implants (especially prostheses with an intermediate to high surface roughness) and rare lymphoma. Asked about possible studies conducted in the Grand Duchy on the subject, the health minister said that "so far, Luxembourg has not carried out any specific assessment of macrotextured implants or polyurethane implants", but stressed that the country closely follows the recommendations of European bodies and neighbouring countries, particularly France. Two dozen cases of anaplastic large cell lymphoma Deprez said that, according to data available for the 2018-2023 period, in Luxembourg 23 cases of the rare anaplastic large cell lymphoma form of cancer were identified in patients covered by the Caisse Nationale de Sante (National Health Fund, CNS). The minister emphasised, however, that the cases are not specific to breast implants, adding that the link between the placement of implants and the subsequent appearance of lymphoma could not be established. Deprez said that women who have implants are informed about the potential risks associated with the devices during their preoperative consultations with the surgeon. The minister also added that the women undergoing an operation are recommended regular medical monitoring to detect any possible complications at an early stage. Bernard asked whether, even in the absence of defects in the prostheses, women with this type of implant are entitled to have them replaced. According to Deprez, this depends on the initial conditions of the procedure and the causes of the implant replacement. For example, health insurance covers the replacement of the prosthesis if the person concerned is covered by the co-payment of the operation from the beginning of the process, she explained. If the prosthesis breaks or was fitted more than ten years ago (which increases the risk of rupture), the patient may also be entitled to have the implant replaced. But that decision depends on the prior authorisation of the CMSS, the Social Security Medical Board (Controle medical de la securite sociale). (This article was originally published by Contacto. Translation and editing by John Monaghan) Luxembourgs parliament should carry out a significant reform of its own lobby register, a body overseeing the work of the Chamber of Deputies has concluded. The Chambers Conference of Presidents a group comprising the parliaments president plus the chairs of each political faction said on Thursday it was time for an overhaul of the current register, based on the first report to assess the effectiveness of the system since it was introduced in 2021. It comes after parliament last year vowed to review the lobby register, amid calls from some parties for a major revamp. Pirate party MP Sven Clement, who tabled the legislation which led to the creation of the register in the first place, compared the current database to a phone book. Also read: Overhaul of zombie lobby register needed, say parties There are a series of gaps in the existing register, according to the conclusions of a study by the parliamentary administration, which provides reports for members of the Chamber of Deputies. Firstly, the transparency register currently only allows information to be obtained on the identity of people who have wished to influence parliamentary work, without providing concrete information on the MPs involved or on the subjects debated, noted a summary of the report published on parliaments website. Practical difficulties undermining effectiveness There are also practical difficulties which are undermining the lobby registers effectiveness, the report added, including misunderstandings of the rules by those involved, frequent omissions or the fact that those involved confuse the transparency register with other registers, for example the commercial register. The register is published on the parliaments website, but there is no information if or when any meetings took place, how often, or with which politicians. In contrast, that information is contained in Luxembourgs two registers for government ministers and civil servants, which also includes a brief summary of the purpose of the meeting. The names of over 330 organisations, including businesses and voluntary groups, have been entered into the register since it was voted into law more than three years ago. There have been two requests for deregistration since its launch, the report found. While the register has been consulted online or downloaded more than 5,000 times in the past year alone up until the end of February not a single person has viewed the physical copy in parliament over the same period. A number of changes could be made to improve the existing register, the report found, recommending that details such as the subject and date of each meeting is recorded. A more substantial reform could involve drawing inspiration from the lobby registers currently in place for government ministers and civil servants, the report added. It will now be up to parliaments rules committee, chaired by former Justice Minister Sam Tanson, to put forward a proposal for reform following the report. When Apple decides to open a new flagship Apple Store, it selects prominent locations and has visions of unique architectural concepts. Such was the case in 2017, when Apple announced its intentions for a new store in Federation Square, or Fed Square as the locals of Melbourne, Australia, put it. Fed Square is located in Melbournes Art Precinct, known locally as the artistic heart of the city. Sounds like an ideal place to put a flagship Apple Store, doesnt it? Well, not long after Apple announced its most significant store in the Southern Hemisphere, the community voiced its objections, fearing that Apples building would harm the locations cultural relevance. Eventually, Heritage Victoria, a government regulator that monitors historic sites, rejected an application for the demolition of the Yarra Building to make way for the Apple Store. That rejection killed the Federation Square Apple Store project. However, that Apple Store does livevirtually, at least, thanks to Filip Chudzinski, a Germany-based designer. Chudzinki created an Apple Federation Store gallery that displays renderings of his ideas of what that store would be like. Chudzinkis images are based on a limited selection of reports, images, and plans from the public preview of the projects second proposal. Chudzinskis images feature a two-story mostly glass building that simultaneously stands out and blends in with its environment. A metal mesh screen on one of the sides of the building can retract to allow more sunlight in. The lower floor would be the traditional retail space, while the upper level would be for Today at Apple sessions and customer support. The building would overlook the Yarra River. Below is a selection of our favorite images but there are many more. Be sure to check out Chudzinskis full gallery, which includes an animation of the retracting mesh screens, spatial photos for Apple Vision Pro users, and downloadable wallpapers for your Mac. Interview: Bosch chairman reaffirms long-term commitment to China as innovation hub 09:27, April 04, 2025 By Li Hanlin ( Xinhua Stefan Hartung, chairman of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH, is interviewed at the Hannover Messe in Hannover, Germany, on March 31, 2025. Hartung has reaffirmed the German industrial giant's long-term commitment to China, calling the country a vital hub for innovation amid a shifting global industrial landscape. (Xinhua/Tai Sicong) HANNOVER, Germany, April 3 (Xinhua) -- Stefan Hartung, chairman of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH, has reaffirmed the German industrial giant's long-term commitment to China, calling the country a vital hub for innovation amid a shifting global industrial landscape. In an exclusive interview with Xinhua at the Hannover Messe, Hartung highlighted China's leadership in green transition and intelligent manufacturing, underscoring its increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future of global industry. At the same time, he warned that rising trade tensions could disrupt supply chains and hinder technological advancement, stressing the importance of free and fair trade. He noted China's rapid progress in industrial automation, battery technology, and electric vehicles - fields that closely align with Bosch's global priorities. Bosch is also deepening its investment in electrification, responding to rising demand for battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. "Electrification is the biggest shift in the automotive sector today, and Bosch is deeply engaged - especially in China," Hartung added. Preliminary data for 2024 shows Bosch generated 142.8 billion yuan (about 19.99 billion U.S. dollars) in sales revenue in China, marking a 2.7 percent year-on-year increase. "China is not only one of our largest markets globally, but also home to our biggest workforce outside Germany," he said. With a strong local presence, Bosch is witnessing firsthand China's rapid strides in artificial intelligence, digitalization, green tech, and manufacturing innovation. "These developments are not only transforming China's industrial landscape, but also having a global impact," Hartung said. At Hannover Messe 2025, Bosch announced the launch of component production for electrolyzers, reinforcing its commitment to the hydrogen economy. The company expects its hydrogen business to generate billions of euros in revenue by 2030. "To tackle climate change, we need alternatives to fossil fuels. Green hydrogen, produced with renewable energy, will play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions across industry, transport, and energy. Electrolysis is at the core of this transformation, and Bosch's Hybrion stack is a key enabler of the technology," Hartung said. He noted that China's focus on high-quality development - particularly in areas such as digitalization and sustainability - aligns closely with Bosch's expertise. "China is no longer just a manufacturing center; it is a global innovation powerhouse," Hartung said. "Bosch supports fair trade and minimizing barriers," he said. "Higher tariffs often lead to retaliatory measures, which increase costs and slow down innovation." Bosch has developed a robust regional production network. "Our localization strategy ensures that we can manufacture and innovate within key markets like China," Hartung said. "But global cooperation remains essential, certain technologies should not be developed in isolation." Looking ahead, Hartung reaffirmed Bosch's long-term investment strategy. "We are investing at a high level and will continue to do so, ensuring a smart allocation of resources. Balancing local-for-local production with global synergies is key, and Bosch will optimize its footprint to maintain a competitive edge." (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Wu Chaolan) By Akbar Novruz Azerbaijan and Russia are celebrating 33 years of diplomatic relations, reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation across a broad spectrum of areas. On the occasion, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov exchanged congratulatory letters, Azernews reports, citing a statement from the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. In his letter, Minister Bayramov highlighted that over the past decades, bilateral tiesrooted in shared historical values, mutual respect, and trusthave progressed from a strategic partnership into a comprehensive alliance. He emphasized that regular political dialogue at the highest level has always been an important factor in the progressive development of cooperation and has always promoted Azerbaijan-Russia interaction. Bayramov pointed to the February 22, 2022 signing of the Declaration on Alliance Interaction as a turning point that elevated interstate relations to a qualitatively new level, laying a solid foundation for long-term collaboration. He underlined that the current phase of bilateral relations is marked by dynamic engagement, citing the increase in trade turnover, the expansion of the legal framework, and the successful implementation of joint initiatives. He also stressed the significance of cultural-humanitarian ties and interregional cooperation, which have gained prominence on the bilateral agenda. Undoubtedly, close cooperation between foreign policy agencies contributes to the strengthening of the alliance's mutual activity on a wide range of issues of mutual interest, Bayramov noted. The Azerbaijani Foreign Minister concluded by expressing confidence that Azerbaijani-Russian relations will continue to develop in a comprehensive manner, evolving with new content in line with the interests of both nations and their peoples. A month-long review of streetscape projects in Boston found that many community members felt unheard by City Hall in the decision-making process, according to a memo to Mayor Michelle Wu recommending new strategies for approaching bus lanes, bike lanes and similar infrastructure. Wu called for the review in February, according to StreetsblogMASS, shortly after she announced the city would remove a controversial bus lane installed on Boylston Street in the Back Bay in 2022. The mayor has faced criticism, including from philanthropist Josh Kraft, her challenger in this years mayoral election, that some street projects the Boylston Street bus lane included were ill-conceived or poorly executed. Kraft has accused the mayor of tuning out community opinion in favor of a top-down approach to governing. We heard consistent feedback that project communications and community engagement were inadequate, that decisions seemed predetermined and that processes too often did not achieve consensus, contributing to a loss of community trust, Mike Brohel, Bostons superintendent of basic city services, wrote to the mayor in the memo recommending a new approach to street projects. While cyclists, public transit advocates and others have praised the citys introduction of bus and bike lanes, others have complained that they sacrificed parking and exacerbated traffic in an already highly congested city. Heeding that feedback, Wu said the Boylston Street bus lane introduced initially as a temporary measure hasnt been justified as a permanent fixture in the bustling business district. A bus lane through Boston's Back Bay on Boylston Street was removed after complaints from the public that it increased traffic congestion. (Will Katcher/MassLive) Brohels memo said the city review found that many people thought their comments during streetscape projects was given insufficient attention and that temporary installments, like the bus lane, were allowed to remain for too long without further analysis of impacts and outcomes. We heard feedback that the tone of some engagements was very heavy-handed and relevant information was not shared, questioning the veracity of the process, he wrote. Many believed neighborhood feedback was not weighed as heavily as others when decisions were made. The mayors office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The memo suggested city officials should begin street projects by identifying a shared understanding of the problems and goals, instead of zeroing in on possible solutions off the bat. It also encouraged them to remain respectful when discussing the tradeoffs of any projects, ensure that project impacts are adequately reviewed before and after construction, improve communication on the timeline and effects of a construction project, and prioritize consensus over speed. The memo strongly suggested a need for a comprehensive bike lane plan that could map the main streets most in need of safe biking infrastructure and ensure that individual bike lanes connect. The review suggested a number of neighborhood-specific recommendations, including in the Back Bay, where it said the city should work on new curbside regulations and meters to free up parking spaces more quickly and make commercial deliveries easier. In the Longwood Medical Area, the review identified concerns that a proposed bus lane on Brookline Avenue may be inadequately designed and could be a burden on vehicle traffic. The city team conducting the month-long review was unable to meet with representatives of all neighborhoods or address every street project. However, the group said other meetings would occur in the future and that through the recommendations, it hoped city officials can establish better project communications and engagement moving forward. A Centerville man was charged in connection with a fatal crash on Thursday night that killed a man from Hyannis, Cape and Islands District Attorney Robert Galibois office said. Zachary Fena, 49, was charged with manslaughter while operating under the influence, motor vehicle homicide while operating under the influence of liquor or 0.08% negligent, operating under the influence, negligent operation of a motor vehicle and marked lanes violation. Fena appeared in Orleans District Court, where a judge ordered $5,000 bail with conditions of release, Galibois office said in a statement. His probable cause hearing his scheduled for May 5. On Thursday, April 3, at around 5:26 p.m., Massachusetts State Police at the Yarmouth barracks received several calls about a two-car crash on Route 6 at mile marker 84.2, in Harwich, the statement read. Upon arrival, troopers saw Fenas car at rest in the median, between the westbound and eastbound lanes facing west with heavy damage to the front, Galibois office said. A second car was at rest in the eastbound breakdown lane, facing west against a guardrail. This car also had heavy damage to its front. Witnesses told troopers that the first car was swerving several times and driving fast before it crossed the median, from the eastbound to the westbound lane, before it struck the second car, the statement read. Harwich firefighters took Fena to Cape Cod Hospital for evaluation, the statement rad. Investigators developed probable cause that he was driving under the influence of alcohol. Fena was then placed in police custody. The sole occupant of [the second car] was determined to be no longer viable for resuscitation on scene by members of the Harwich Fire Department, Galibois office said. ...District Attorney Galibois thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the individual involved during this very sad time. The investigation into the crash remains ongoing. Karen Read smiles while walking with her defense attorney David Yanetti following jury selection for her trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Thursday, April 3, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. ( (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) With 10 jurors already in place for the second Karen Read trial, a new pool of several dozen potential jurors filled a Dedham courtroom Friday morning. In all, 72 new potential jurors arrived for jury duty on Friday. Of that 72, 66 said they had seen, heard or talked about the case and 43 said they had already formed or expressed an opinion. The intense publicity around the Read case has consistently led to almost every potential juror having heard about it by the time they show up for service. Just 12 of the potential jurors said they had a bias that would impact their service on the case, and 44 said serving would create an undue hardship for them. Judge Beverly Cannoen defined an undue hardship as being a student, having a surgery scheduled or having airline tickets booked. Even fewer potential jurors reported knowing any of the 150 people on the witness list just four and three said they had had dealings with the lawyers or the district attorney. Across the first three days of selection, more than 200 jurors had been questioned, with 11 being picked to serve on the jury. One juror subsequently dropped out for unknown reasons. Each day of selection begins with Cannone reading a statement of the case, laying out what prosecutors say Read did: backing her SUV into her then-boyfriend, Boston Police officer John OKeefe, outside a Canton home following a night of drinking. She told jurors that Read is presumed innocent and has no obligation to prove her innocence during the trial. Cannone also referenced the intense publicity that has consumed the Read case, saying, public comment will likely continue, but the rule of law will be upheld. Read thanked the potential jurors after each lawyer introduced themselves. Cannone then read out the entire witness list, which contains 150 names, before she asks the entire group a series of questions. Jurors are then left to fill out a three-page questionnaire. Only after all that are jurors called up individually to sidebar to be questioned by the judge and the lawyers. Jury selection is pressing on despite Read filing a petition for a writ of certiorari with the U.S. Supreme Court, asking the nations highest court to take up her double-jeopardy appeal. Its not clear if the court will do so. Read has also asked the court to pause her state case. Read, 45, is charged with second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident causing injury or death in connection with the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police officer John OKeefe. Prosecutors say Read intentionally backed her SUV into OKeefe in a drunken rage amid turmoil in their relationship, then left him to die in the snow outside the Canton home of a fellow Boston Police officer. But Reads defense has claimed OKeefe was beaten up inside the house, and his body was planted outside in an effort to frame Read. Karen Read talks with her legal defense team during jury selection for her trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Thursday, April 3, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, Pool) AP Jury selection for Karen Reads second trial will resume Friday, with more than half of the 16-member panel already in place. After three full days of selection, 10 jurors had been picked five men and five women. Lawyers for Read, prosecutors and the presiding judge have individually questioned 226 people, meaning only about 4% of potential jurors are actually seated. The pool of new potential jurors who filled Dedhams Norfolk Superior Court on Thursday was significantly smaller than previous days. Only about 40 people showed up, compared to about 90 each of the prior two days. But on both Tuesday and Wednesday, about 35 jurors were sent home at lunch, meaning the number of jurors questioned has stayed relatively consistent across all three days. Since all the jurors summoned Thursday were questioned, Fridays pool is expected to be larger. Of the pool of 40, 37 said they had heard or talked about the case when asked by Judge Beverly Cannone. Twenty-one said they had formed an opinion about the case, and four said they had some bias or prejudice. All jurors complete a three-page questionnaire before they are called up to sidebar one at a time. While potential jurors were being questioned at sidebar, Read sat on a bench, seemingly listening in. During previous days, she sat at the defense table with Victoria George, an alternate juror from the first trial who has joined her defense team, going through questionnaires. During questioning, lawyers from either side can strike a juror without providing a specific reason. Both sides can do so up to 16 times. Its not clear how many have been used during the selection process so far. Each day of selection begins with Judge Beverly Cannone reading a statement of the case, laying out what prosecutors say Read did: backing her SUV into her then-boyfriend, Boston Police officer John OKeefe, outside a Canton home following a night of drinking. She told jurors that Read is presumed innocent and has no obligation to prove her innocence during the trial. Cannone also referenced the intense publicity that has consumed the Read case, saying, public comment will likely continue, but the rule of law will be upheld. Read thanked the potential jurors after each lawyer introduced themselves. Cannone then read out the entire witness list, which contains 150 names, before she asks the entire group a series of questions. Only after all that are jurors called up individually. Read, 45, is charged with second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident causing injury or death in connection with the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police officer John OKeefe. Prosecutors say Read intentionally backed her SUV into OKeefe in a drunken rage amid turmoil in their relationship, then left him to die in the snow outside the Canton home of a fellow Boston Police officer. But Reads defense has claimed OKeefe was beaten up inside the house, and his body was planted outside in an effort to frame Read. A Middleborough man killed in a three-vehicle crash in Taunton last month was remembered by his family for going fishing and expressing "his creativity through music on the guitar," his family wrote in his obituary. Richard Blanchette Jr., 20, of Middleborough, died from his injuries at the hospital on March 20, two days after the crash, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn IIIs office said in a statement. The crash was in the area of 1070 Somerset Ave. The vehicles included a 2018 gray Dodge Challenger with heavy damage on the front end of it; a 2008 gray Toyota Camry also had extensive damage to the front; lastly, a 2021 Dodge Ram pickup truck was damaged on the drivers side and back end. Blanchette, who drove the Dodge Challenger, was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, Quinns office said. The driver of the other car, a woman in a Toyota Camry, was seriously hurt in critical but stable condition. The passenger with Blanchette was also taken to the hospital for treatment, while the driver of a third vehicle, the Dodge Ram, was hospitalized for minor injuries. Known as RJ, Blanchette was born on June 1, 2004, in Boston, and was a cherished lifelong resident of Middleborough, his family wrote. Blanchette graduated from Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical High School in 2022, his family continued. It was in high school that he honed his skills in metal fabrication and welding, and he took great pride in his work as a garage door installer for Mortland Door Systems, where he became known for his dedication and craftsmanship. An adventurous spirit, RJ found joy in driving and working on his beloved car, engaging in welding projects, and expressing his creativity through music on the guitar. He treasured time spent fishing, building model cars, and creating memories with his girlfriend, Adriana, and his devoted pets, his cat Jack and dog Lilly, his obituary read. RJ had a heart of gold and a generous nature, always prioritizing the needs of others before his own. Blanchette is survived by his parents, Cheryl Simmons and Richard Blanchette Sr.; his sister Ashlee Blanchette and her wife, Jodie Hughes; his grandmother Joyce Bedell; his uncle Rick Bedell; his grandparents Joseph and Betty Blanchette; his girlfriend Adriana Ferreira; and his dear friend, Peter Souza, who was like a brother to him, the family wrote. He was predeceased by his sister, Rachael Simmons. Blanchettes funeral was held at the Dahlborg-MacNevin Funeral Home in Lakeville on Friday, March 28. As we gather to celebrate the life of Richard Joseph Blanchette Jr., let us remember the joy he brought to those around him and the love he so freely shared, his obituary concluded. May he rest in peace. Karen Read sits with her legal defense team during jury selection for her trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Thursday, April 3, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, Pool) AP Prosecutors indicated Friday that they did not intend to respond to Karen Reads petition for the U.S. Supreme Court to take up her double-jeopardy appeal. The one-page filing is signed by Thomas Boden on behalf of the Massachusetts Attorney Generals office and Norfolk Superior Court. The court has been represented by Caleb Schillinger, a Norfolk County prosecutor, at every other stage of the appeal. Read filed what is known as a petition for a writ of certiorari basically a formal request that the nations highest court take up her case. There is no guarantee it will. The court is asked to review more than 7,000 cases each year it agrees to hear between 100 to 150. If the court takes up the case, prosecutors would likely file a brief at a later stage of the process. The appeal to the Supreme Court comes a week after the First Circuit Court of Appeals denied Reads appeal of a lower court decision not to acquit her on those charges second-degree murder and leaving the scene of an accident causing injury or death. Read has argued that jurors agreed to acquit her of those charges during her first trial, but did not know they could return a partial verdict. She has sought dismissal of the charges on double-jeopardy grounds. But every court that has taken up the case has denied Read. Norfolk Superior Court Judge Beverly Cannone, who is overseeing the trial, denied a motion to dismiss the charges in August. Then, the Supreme Judicial Court Massachusetts highest court affirmed Cannones decision in a ruling published in February. Read appealed the SJC decision to U.S. District Court, where a federal judge denied the petition in March. In the petition, attorney Martin Weinberg, who leads Reads appellate team, writes the first circuits denial is rooted in a formalism that has been consistently rejected by this Court in a string of precedents spanning more than one hundred years. In the filing, he argues that Reads double-jeopardy claim should not carry less weight than that of someone arguing jury bias under the Sixth Amendment. Read submits that there is no legal or constitutional basis to afford less rights to a defendant seeking the ultimate benefit of her right to a jury trial an acquittal as found by a unanimous jury of her peers than those regularly granted to defendants raising process-related challenges, i.e., contending that their jury was not impartial," the filing reads. The filing poses two questions to the court: Whether a final and unanimous, but unannounced, decision by a jury following trial that the prosecution failed to prove a defendant guilty of a charged offense constitutes an acquittal precluding retrial under the Double Jeopardy Clause and whether a defendant who produces credible evidence of such a final, unanimous, and unannounced acquittal is entitled to a post-trial hearing to substantiate the fact of such acquittal. Along with the petition to the Supreme Court, Read has filed for a stay in the state court case, where jury selection is already underway for her second trial. It takes a vote of only four justices for the court to take up a case. To grant a stay, five votes are needed. The court hears oral arguments on cases between October and April, and is in recess from late June/early July to October. In April, oral arguments are heard during the last two weeks of the month. But it is extremely unlikely the Read case would be argued so soon, given not just that prosecutors have until May to respond, but that even if the court agrees to take up the case, both sides would have to file briefs. That process typically takes several months. A Quincy woman will go to prison for taking disability benefits from the Social Security Administration despite being married, United States Attorney Leah Foleys office said. U.S. Magistrate Judge Jennifer Boal sentenced Crystal Gesumaria, 41, to three years of probation and was ordered to pay $93,603 in restitution, Foleys office said in a statement. Earlier in Gesumarias hearing, she pleaded guilty to one count of misdemeanor theft of government money, the statement read. She was originally charged in October 2024. Since March 2005, Gesumaria received Disabled Adult Child, or DAC, benefits, Foleys office said. Between July 2013 and August 2022, she took $93,603 in benefits after failing to report her 2013 marriage and made several misleading statements to the agency about her marital status. The administration told her about her eligibility criteria when she started receiving DAC benefits, Foleys office continued. People who are married are not eligible for DAC benefits. The administration sent several written reminders of her obligation to report any change in her marital status. While in a continuing disability review in 2016, Gesumaria turned in forms and an affidavit from her husband that referred to him as a friend or roommate, Foleys office said. In May 2022, an administration employee confronted Gesumaria about a claim that she was married and reminded her about how it could impact her receiving benefits, the statement read. Gesumari denied knowing about the marriage. People take photos near a John Harvard statue, left, on the Harvard University campus, Jan. 2, 2024, in Cambridge, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File) AP Harvard University was sent a list of demands from the Trump administrations antisemitism task force on Thursday describing how the institution can avoid having around $9 billion in federal funding canceled, according to a letter obtained by The Boston Globe. The demands would force Harvard to shutter diversity, equity and inclusion programs, implement a mask ban and adopt merit-based admissions and hiring policies to end preferences based on race, color or national origin; Others on the list included: the review of programs and departments that fuel antisemitic harassment and necessary changes to address bias, improve viewpoint diversity and end ideological capture reform disciplinary policies such as a comprehensive mask ban (with medical and religious exemptions, given identification is always displayed) and a clarified time, place and manner policy. The institution has to review and report on antisemitic rule violations since October 7, 2023 recognized and unrecognized student groups to be held accountable for violations of Harvard policy improving organizational structure to clarify authority and accountability to empower leaders who will implement changes cooperate with law enforcement comply with existing reporting requirements under Section 117 of the Higher Education Act, commit to full cooperation with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and other federal regulators and make organizational changes for full compliance The demands came after the institution was threatened with billions of dollars in federal grants and contracts under review at the university and its affiliates, such as Mass General Brigham and Boston Childrens Hospital. A Harvard spokesperson confirmed the institution received the list of demands. Read more: Billions in federal funding at Harvard in jeopardy from Trump administration Harvard President Alan Garber wrote in a Monday evening letter that if funding is halted, it will stop life-saving research and imperil important scientific research and innovation. Garber said Harvard fully embraces the important goal of [combating] antisemitism, one of the most insidious forms of bigotry and said he had experienced it directly while serving as president. At the same time, the institution has been working to combat antisemitism through enhancing training and education and by adopting other reforms. As an institution and as a community, we acknowledge our shortcomings, pursue needed change and build stronger bonds that enable all to thrive. Our commitment to these endsand to the teaching and research at the heart of our University will not waver," Garber said. The Trump administration has also threatened to pull funding from Columbia University, Brown University, Princeton University and the University of Pennsylvania. Columbia agreed to a list of demands from the Trump administration after facing an ultimatum to abide by the requirements or jeopardize federal funding. The decision was met with outrage from community members and the higher education community despite it placing Columbia on the right track toward recovering the funding, according to The Associated Press. The threatened funding also comes after a series of arrests by ICE, including Tufts University doctoral student Rumeysa Ozturk who was arrested by six masked federal immigration agents in Somerville on March 25, in apparent retaliation to an op-ed article she co-authored in the schools newspaper last year. Donald Trump listens to Elon Musk as he arrives to watch SpaceX's mega rocket Starship lift off for a test flight from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. (Brandon Bell/Pool via AP) AP When she barnstorms in Nashville this weekend, U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren will be doing more than simply crossing the Mason-Dixon Line. Shell be joining the ranks of Democrats who have started venturing into Trump country, banking that focusing on the Republican presidents deepening unpopularity on issues such as trade, the economy and entitlement programs will pave a path back to the majority on Capitol Hill in 2026. Democrats are ready to fight back. The best way to do that is to come together, raise our voices and organize, Warren told MassLive. The best way I can serve the people of Massachusetts is to try to get more Democrats around the country who are currently represented by Republicans, is to get those Democrats in the fight, and pushing back hard on Trump, she continued. That appearance also comes amid a national day of action put on by a constellation of advocacy groups in cities across the country on Saturday, including Boston. Thousands of people are expected to gather in the states largest city for an event culminating with a rally on City Hall Plaza and a performance by local favorites Dropkick Murphys. Warrens Saturday foray into turf held by U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., an ally of President Donald Trump, and the deeply organized messaging that comes with it, is also a study in contrasts. At the national level, Democrats have tried to seize on the White Houses stumbles on the so-called Signalgate scandal, slumping consumer confidence, rage over tariffs, and service disruptions at federal agencies that have fallen to tech billionaire Elon Musks DOGE chainsaw. Democrats have been slow to meet the moment veteran Democratic analyst Mary Anne Marsh, of Boston, told MassLive. Its really the American people who have led the leaders. After this Saturday, elected leaders will finally understand what the American people have been trying to tell them. But back home in Massachusetts, Warrens fellow Democrats also are struggling to speak with one voice as they try to marshal state-level resistance to a White House agenda that has left few areas of public life untouched. Gov. Maura Healey has increasingly stepped up her criticisms, sometimes using national pulpits to do so, while state Attorney General Andrea J. Campbell has loosed a fusillade of lawsuits. The response from the majority-Democrat state Legislature, meanwhile, has been far more muted. Thats left progressives, who make up the most vocal part of the state Democratic Partys base, fuming. Theyve filled town halls and taken to social media to call on their elected leaders to do more to resist the Trump administration. On Tuesday, Democrats who control the state Senate launched a loosely organized and belated effort to push back against Trumps incursions into the Bay State. The effort, dubbed Response 2025, will see a senior Democratic lawmaker deploy a committee she already chairs to organize the chambers response, Senate President Karen Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, said during a news conference at the State House. Theres not one bill or action that we can pass that will fully cover us, and we will work to fill the gaps as best as possible as we discover new weaknesses or as new threats emerge, Sen. Cindy Friedman, D-4th Middlesex, whos been tasked with the effort, said. On the other side of the State House, House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano, D-3rd Norfolk, has said hes looking at a couple of things. The Senates announced response is more comical and more underwhelming than creating a new committee: they held a press conference to let the public know that an existing committee is going to do the work that it should have already been doing, Jonathan Cohn, of Progressive Massachusetts, said in a statement to MASSterList. We are now at the start of the fourth month of the year and are 10 weeks into Trumps second administration. Why is it only now that Senate Democrats feel the need to announce that they are thinking about how to respond to the disasters in Washington? Cohn said. Meanwhile, a template with some seriously local ties may be staring state Democrats right in the face. U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, the Vermont independent who caucuses with Democrats, and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., have attracted massive crowds with a Fighting Oligarchy tour, thats also attracted national headlines. Its also led some to brand them as the public faces of a Democratic tea party, a reference to the fiery grassroots movement that helped Republicans recapture control of the U.S. House in 2010. Tell me anyone [else] who can draw those crowds, Marsh said. And I would throw Warren in there. When you do the full circle on the economic piece, the left and the right meet. When you see Warren, Sanders, and AOC out there its about economics. Clearly, a chord has been struck." Democrats got some glass-half-full news on Tuesday, as the party prevailed in a judicial election in Wisconsin, a key presidential swing state. Meanwhile, Republican U.S. House candidates, backed by Trump, prevailed, but under-performed, in a pair of special elections in deep-red Florida. That came on top of U.S. Sen. Cory Bookers, D-N.J., history-making filibuster on the Senate floor. For Warren, thats all proof that voters are ready to make their voices heard. Theres a lot of anger at what co-presidents Musk and Trump are trying to do all across this country. Wisconsin showed us that democracy is not for sale, she said. Democrats have just about 18 months to marshal that resistance and turn rage into results in the 2026 midterm elections. For Marsh, every minute counts. Hitler dismantled Germanys democracy in six months. [Hungarian strongman Viktor] Orban took 10 years. Donald Trump has been in office for two months and is far outpacing both of them, she said. We dont have that time. We have a matter of weeks, maybe a couple more months, thats it. But, she added, I have great faith in the American people to rise to the occasion. Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler, Transportation Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt and Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew Gorzkowicz testify before the Joint Ways and Means Committees during a budget hearing on Thursday, April 3, 2025 (Sam Drysdale/State House News Service) Sam Drysdale/State House News Service Lawmakers will need to reconcile questions about the right balance for income surtax spending, in more way than one, when they take up Gov. Maura Healeys proposal to deploy about $1.3 billion in unspent revenue from the new levy on wealthy households. When legislators gathered Thursday to review Healeys plan (H 55), a pair of western Massachusetts lawmakers voiced frustration that the transportation spending in the bill skews heavily toward the MBTA, contending the split is not fair to residents outside the Boston-based transit agencys service area. Democratic state Sen. Joanne M. Comerford of Northampton and Republican state Rep. Todd Smola of Warren each pressed administration officials about the roughly $780 million allocated for the T in the bill, contrasted with significantly smaller balances available for regional transit authorities and microtransit in less populous areas. When this proposal came out, we all in western Massachusetts heard from people that this didnt look like equity or anything close to equity, Smola, R-1st Hampden, said at a Joint Ways and Means Committee public hearing in Boston. Weve tossed that term around loosely, but these numbers are tough. This decision was made at the ballot, he added about the surtax, which voters approved for education and transportation investments. I accept that, and I think we all have to accept that, but the breakdown of these funds is a really, really difficult pill for a lot of people to swallow in other parts of the state. MBTA funding accounts for more than half of the balance in Healeys bill. The money would help replenish the Ts savings, which the agency drained last year to sustain a hiring blitz, and workforce and safety spending. Healeys fiscal 2026 annual budget also seeks to use new surtax dollars to significantly boost state aid for the agency, aiming to mostly close the massive budget gap the MBTA faces starting July 1. Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew Gorzkowicz told lawmakers the supplemental budget does look disproportionately unfair to western Mass. on its own, but he urged them to weigh it alongside the annual budget and a five-year, $1.5 billion Chapter 90 bill (H 53). Those three legislative vehicles combine to form a broader transportation funding plan that Healey deputies have estimated would inject $8 billion over the next decade. You should be able to go back to western Mass. with a lot of confidence in what were proposing here. Out of an $8 billion transportation plan, nearly $5.6 billion of it is outside of the MBTA. Only 25% of that plan is really going towards the MBTA, Gorzkowicz said, soon adding, The vast majority of the proposal, when taken holistically across all the items that we filed, is a very thoughtful plan. Comerford, D-Hampshire/Franklin/ Worcester contended, however, that even when combining surtax spending on transportation in the supplemental and annual budgets, the vast majority of dollars would go to the T instead of the states 15 regional transit authorities that serve other communities. With this as it is, I think I cant go home and say this, that we have a commitment through Fair Share dollars, which our voters in western Massachusetts campaigned hard for -- I just dont think its super fair currently, she said. Comerford also referenced another earmark the T has long enjoyed. In western Massachusetts, were aware that we pay a penny of our sales tax for the MBTA, and most of my people will never ride it, she said. Transportation Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt told Comerford that administration officials want to be having this conversation over the next fiscal year about grant programs, funding and technical assistance for RTAs. But Secretary, if we wait a year, we will be yet one more year behind with no service in these towns that are declining population at a pretty significant rate, Comerford replied. Healey proposed using a much larger chunk of the one-time pot -- about $857.5 million -- on transportation, leaving $462.5 million for education investments that range from early education and care, the special education circuit breaker reserve and career technical education grants. Officials have said they believe the skew in that measure will balance out prior surtax spending, which has leaned more toward education. That idea already has the support of top House Democrats. Given that many of the worthy programs that have been funded in the annual budget process have been in the education sector, it is entirely appropriate that the majority of these one-time funds in this round be spent in the transportation sector of our economy, House Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Aaron Michlewitz, D-3rd Suffolk, said at the start of Thursdays hearing. When the Fair Share amendment was pitched to the voters of the commonwealth in 2022, it was presented to be distributed evenly between education and transportation funding. This supplemental budget will allow us to fulfill that commitment, the North Boston lawmaker said. Its not clear if Senate Democrats agree with the approach. Michlewitzs counterpart, Sen. Michael Rodrigues, D-1st Bristol/Plymouth, made no mention in his opening remarks of supporting -- or opposing -- a more transportation-heavy approach. He called for the money to be spent in a regional, equitable manner. A spokesperson for Senate President Karen Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, did not directly answer when asked if she supports the idea of directing more of the one-time surtax money toward transportation. Investing in education and transportation is critical if we want to continue to make Massachusetts a great place to live and work, the spokesperson, Gray Milkowski, said. The Senate President will continue to hear from members and residents from around the state about the needs in both areas, and ensure the Senates version of the surtax supplemental budget appropriately balances investments in each. American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts President Jessica Tang told the committee her union is pleased with what Healey proposed. But the union leader provided a litany of other surtax investments the state could make to blunt the impact of cuts from the federal government and deal with education financing headaches at the state level. She suggested about $1 billion in education-focused investments the union would support and urged lawmakers to pursue other new sources of revenue. Due to the revenue from the Fair Share amendment, we are better positioned than most states to weather the current storm and for our commonwealth to continue to lead by taking critical steps to fill the gaps and do whatever we can to prevent further harm, while continuing to enact proactive measures, Tang said. Considering the level of uncertainty we have across sectors, with the cuts and threats to critical programming were hearing from the White House, we also urge you to take action early this session to identify new sources of revenue and ways the state can invest and ensure economic security for all, including passing the corporate fair share bill, also known as the GILTI bill, Tang said. The Raise Up Massachusetts coalition, which backed the surtax push and increases to the minimum wage, is prioritizing a bill (H 3110 / S 2033) from Rep. Carlos Gonzalez and Sen. Jason Lewis that would increase the share of excess foreign profits (based on a federal government formula called Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income or GILTI) that could be taxed by the state from 5% to 50% to match New England neighbors. Sen. Paul Feeney, D-Bristol/Norfolk, raised the GILTI tax proposal, mentioning challenges communities in his district face to pay for education services. He said he has always been a supporter of the idea and asked Mass. Taxpayers Foundation President Doug Howgate whether the state ought to start thinking about new revenue sources. Howgate responded by pointing at rates of growth in revenues and spending. Pick whatever revenue structure you want, pick whatever tax rates you want -- theyre going to grow, if youre lucky, at 3 to 4% a year, Feeney said. And one of the challenges were facing now in MassHealth, challenges were facing in a number of areas of spending, is that the spending is growing by more than 3 or 4% a year, he continued. And to me, thats a structural issue that is going to require a lot of hard conversations for all of us about how to get our arms around those cost growth factors. So this is what it sounds like when 20 state attorneys general shush you. Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea J. Campbell took the Trump administration to court on Friday to block the White Houses efforts to dismantle the federal agency that provides funding and support for public libraries and museums nationwide. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Rhode Island, names President Donald Trump and a host of administration officials as defendants. The Republican signed an executive order last month dismantling the federal agencies that collectively provide hundreds of millions of dollars for library and museum programming in every state. As a result, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) one of the targeted agencies placed nearly all of its staff on administrative leave and said it would cut hundreds of grants for state libraries and museums. The IMLS said it awarded $266 million in grants and research last year, NPR reported. That includes the Bay State, which gets $3.6 million in federal funding for library services, funneled through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, WBUR-FM reported. "From the Berkshires to Boston, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is home to some of the best public libraries and museums in the country that employ residents, provide educational opportunities and resources, and drive our creative economy, Campbell said in a statement. Local libraries mostly depend on property taxes for their funding. Nonetheless, they depend on federal money to pay for such statewide services as databases and e-books, WBUR-FM reported. Without that money, libraries couldnt afford such services on their own, and the state could not make up the difference, the station reported. The Elon Musk-helmed Department of Government Efficiency paid a visit to the Institute of Museum and Library Services two weeks ago, installing a new director, who said he planned to [steer] this organization in lockstep, with the administrations cost-cutting measures. It is an honor to be directed by President Trump to lead this important organization in its mission to advance, support, and empower Americas museums and libraries, which stand as cornerstones of learning and culture in our society. I am committed to steering this organization in lockstep with this administration to enhance efficiency and foster innovation, the agencys acting director, Keith E. Sonderling, said in a statement. Sonderling said he would revitalize the agency and restore focus on patriotism, ensuring we preserve our countrys core values, promote American exceptionalism, and cultivate love of country in future generations. On Friday, Campbell said she and her colleagues once again have to hold the Trump administration accountable for unlawful actions directed at our economy and cultural institutions. The legal action also seeks to halt the White Houses efforts to dismantle agencies the Minority Business Development Agency, and Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, which promotes peaceful resolution of labor disputes. In their court filing, Campbell and her colleagues argued that the executive order violates federal law and the U.S. Constitution by eliminating the programs of agencies without any regard for the laws and regulations that govern each source of federal funding. Trump cannot decide to unilaterally override laws governing federal spending, and that this Executive Order unconstitutionally overrides Congresss power to decide how federal funds are spent, the coalition of attorneys general said in their joint statement. Campbell was joined in the legal action by attorneys general from New York, Rhode Island, and Hawaii, who are leading it, in addition to the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin. It might only be 2025, but Democrats, surveying the wreckage of 2024, are prioritizing the 2028 primary candidate with the best shot to win the general election, according to a new YouGov/The Economist poll released Thursday. So who is that? Well, thats complicated. And maybe a little fraught. A majority of Democrats -- 58% -- say their preference is a nominee who can win the general election in November, the survey found. The remaining 42% said their preference is a nominee who agrees with them on most issues. Sounds simple enough, right? Hang tight. Democrats then were asked who they would consider voting for based on a list of 10 potential candidates who fared the best in another YouGov/The Economist survey. The results added up to more than 100% because the poll allowed Democrats to choose all of the candidates they might look at in the primary. On top was former Vice President Kamala Harris, the partys 2024 nominee, who lost to President Donald Trump last November. A majority of Democrats -- 58% -- said they would consider voting for the California Democrat in the 2028 primary. Harris also led all potential contenders when voters were asked who their ideal candidate was for 2028. A plurality of respondents -- 29% -- said Harris was the ideal primary candidate. Behind Harris was the 2020 Democratic presidential primary contender and ex-U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Thirty-nine percent of Democrats said they would consider voting for him in the 2028 primary. Buttigieg also came in second on Democrats ideal candidate at 9%. Third place was a tie between Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the 2024 vice presidential nominee, and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, whom 38% of Democrats said they would consider voting for. Just 3% percent said Walz is the Democrats ideal candidate and 7% described Ocasio-Cortez as the ideal candidate. No other potential contender besides Harris achieved double digits on the ideal candidate question. In fourth was independent Vermont U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (36% would consider, 6% ideal candidate), followed by U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., (33% would consider, 2% ideal candidate); California Gov. Gavin Newsom (31% would consider, 8% ideal candidate); New Jersey U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (27% would consider, 8% ideal candidate); Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (25% would consider, 2% ideal candidate); and Arizona U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (23% would consider, 4% ideal candidate.) Mayor Joe Petty speaks at a ribbon cutting for District 120, an apartment building on the former site of Table Talk Pies' Worcester factory. (Trea Lavery, MassLive) Trea Lavery/MassLive The relationship between the city of Worcester and the colleges it hosts may get more fraught. Tensions were already high after city leaders took issue with Worcester Polytechnic Institute, College of the Holy Cross and the Massachusetts College of Public Health Sciences buying additional city property over the past 18 months with little or no notice to the city and reducing the citys tax base. Now, Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty and Worcester City Council Economic Development Committee Chair Candy Mero-Carlson said they filed two orders to create a community impact fund using the endowments of those colleges and others in the city, according to a Friday announcement. The first order places a ballot question on this Novembers ballot asking city residents if they support forcing the citys private colleges and universities to invest 0.5% of their endowments into a city fund to help finance needed housing, economic, and community development projects. The second order asks the city manager to research how such a fund could be used in collaboration with the Worcester Regional Research Bureau and Greater Worcester Community Foundation. The endowments of the five colleges and universities targeted by the orders totals about $3.9 billion, the announcement said, which would put approximately $19 million into the fund. We need a new construct and parameters in how we work with our colleges and universities. A community impact fund or loan pool is a model whereby, through a very modest investment of their substantial endowments into local housing and economic and community development projects, our colleges and universities can still achieve a return on investment while creating jobs, housing, and expanding the tax base, said Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson in the announcement. City leaders have objected to recent property purchases by higher education institutions, which the announcement said totaled $64 million in the past 18 months. In September, the City Council unanimously supported asking the city manager to create a new zoning ordinance requiring colleges and universities to publicly file a 10-year master plan with the city, outlining their growth and construction plans. A couple months later, City Council members groused about a deal negotiated between the city manager and Worcester Polytechnic Institution over recent purchases of two hotels to turn them into student housing. In Fridays announcement, Petty called Worcesters colleges and universities an asset to Worcester. However, he continued that leaders at those institutions needed to work with the city in a new spirit of engaged partnership through annual strategic investments. 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The SWARM project took place over 10 months and involved children and teachers from 16 schools across the three counties, culminating in the stunning installation now in the Museum. Local Mayo schools that participated in the project included Attymass National School, Ballyvary National School, Behy National School, Belcarra National School, Cloonliffen NSc, Colaiste Muire, Craggagh National School, Culmore National School, Derrywash National School, Educate Together Castlebar, Knock National School and Myna National School. Commenting on the importance of the project, Castlebar Educate Together NS teacher Liam Scanlon said: "We were delighted to be involved in the creation of SWARM. Our students learned about Irelands bees, exploring ecology, biodiversity and the wonders of the natural world. "The project provided both a learning experience and a creative opportunity and the children are very proud to have their work on display in the National Museum at Turlough Park." To inspire the children and help teach them more about Ireland's bees, the children visited The Murmur of Bees exhibition at the National Museum. Guided by artist Cas McCarthy, they then created their very own colourful cardboard insects. The artworks have been brought to life in a moving carousel designed by Frank O'Reilly Design from Westport which is now displayed in the Courtyard Gallery art space. Education Assistant at the National Museum of Ireland, Martina Burke Lavin, has welcomed the installation, saying: "It has been incredibly rewarding to welcome students to the Museum, introduce them to The Murmur of Bees exhibition and then watch them bring their creativity to life by transforming simple cardboard pieces into vibrant colourful insects. "This project not only introduced them to the wonders of the Museum and our collection, but it also encouraged hands-on learning, teamwork, and artistic expression. Watching their excitement at having their artwork displayed in the Museum and their imagination coming to life in this project has been a highlight of this experience." READ NEXT: Renowned Mayo born plasterer honoured with rare craftsmanship award in London THE Mayo College of Further Education and Training have raised over 800 for the Irish Cancer Society as part of their annual Daffodil Day fundraiser. The third-level institution, which has three main campuses, Castlebar, Ballina and Westport, hosted a bucket collection on March 27, which raised 842.20 for the Irish Cancer Society. Fundraising events took place all over Mayo for Daffodil Day. The annual event raises millions for the charity, which supports thousands of patients with cancer and their families. Margaret Walsh, a cancer survivor and former Daffodil Day ambassador, accepted the cheque from Mayo College of Further Education and Training at their Castlebar campus on Thursday on behalf of the Irish Cancer Society. Mary Murray, a member of the Irish Cancer Societys Community Fundraising Team, described Ms Walsh as a great ambassador for the cause. The cheque was formally presented by Michael Murphy, Principal of Mayo College of Further Education and Trainings Castlebar campus. The college thanked all the students and staff who helped contribute to their Daffodil Day collection. You can find out more about the Irish Cancer Society by visiting www.cancer.ie PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured at the presentation of 842.20 to the Irish Cancer Society are Anne Vahey, Margaret Walsh, former ambassador for Daffodil Day, Mayo College of Further Education and Training staff members Michael Murphy, Castlebar campus Principal, Aimee Maloney, teacher, and Helen Munnelly, SEN Coordinator. The theme of my column this week is prompted by the recent launch of a new Irish sales portal (amazon.ie). In the past, when Irish consumers used the Amazon web site to purchase goods, it was the UK portal (amazon.co.uk) that served them. One of the inconvenient consequences of Brexit was that many of the third-party British selling partners using Amazon decided that customs hassle associated with selling into Ireland, a relatively small market, was not worth it. So something had to be done about that. To unpack what is going on here we have to step back and reflect on how the phenomenon of e-commerce took the retail world by storm. In 1994 Jeff Bezos, an investment banker, set-up a system to sell products using the then relatively new World Wide Web. Initially he focused on books, since these were products whose simple physical characteristics were already standardised by book publishers (a Penguin book is a Penguin book), and were unlikely to be damaged in the post. Even better, he could do deals with publishers to convert physical books into electronic (or Kindle) versions and bypass the cost of printing. Out of such simple beginnings Bezos operation grew phenomenally and now has a dominant position in the world of on-line retailing. Shrewd move Starting with books was a shrewd move since it enabled Amazon to establish its reputation and efficiency before moving into other more challenging lines. Today, not only can you buy an almost infinite range of goods that conventional shops anywhere in the world might sell (other than some food items), but the speed of delivery is extraordinarily fast. I checked to see if I could buy a coffin on Amazon, but was disappointed to see that it only sold small coffin-shaped ornaments. On the other hand, I could easily have bought both Milk of Magnesia and rope, two staples of west of Ireland retailing in the past. The next expansion of Amazon was when they emulated supermarket stores that permit selected niche product manufacturers to set-up stalls inside the supermarket. In a similar fashion, firms can register with Amazon to have their product range displayed on the massive Amazon site, but where orders are directed from the site for fulfilment by the specific firm. Of course, there is a price to be paid by the niche manufacturer for this service, as well as an element of risk that Amazon may come to dominate the sales strategy in a way that may not always be in the interests of a small firm. Amazon diversified even further in 2006 by introducing Amazon Web Services (AWS), a cloud-computing service that has become the largest such service in the world, operating many facilities in Ireland. Prior to 2021, Amazon sales to Ireland were sourced mainly from British-based warehouses and fulfilment centres. In 2022 a massive fulfilment centre was constructed in west Dublin and the employment generated (about 500) was warmly welcomed by the government. Now we have split from the UK system and have our own retail web site (amazon.ie). This initiative was also warmly welcomed by the government, which stressed the potential benefits to small Irish manufacturers of having easier access to selling on the Irish site. Total employment by Amazon in Ireland is currently 6,500, ranging from less skilled jobs in the warehouse/fulfilment centre to highly skilled technical and engineering jobs in AWS. The attractiveness of such an employer is obvious and it fits well with the Irish strategy of attracting foreign investment in the service sector to offset losses in older manufacturing firms. Amazon is not the only firm to have revolutionised retailing through e-commerce. But it is by far the biggest and has a dominant position. The overall consequences for conventional retailing can be seen in the small towns and villages of the N&W region. Traditional retail outlets competing with Amazon have already been closing in droves. In some cases there is a change of use to coffee bars, cafes and restaurants, and other niche suppliers, particularly when there is a thriving tourist demand. In other cases the old shops are boarded up and become derelict. This is the same phenomenon that occurred when supermarkets first arrived in western towns and replaced the small grocery stores that I remember in the Westport of my youth, Survival strategy Perhaps the best survival strategy for conventional retail is to combine their products with expertise. For example, I can buy household electrical goods on Amazon, but a visit to a local, well-run store provides advice, information on installation, and contacts to handle any repairs over the lifetime of the product. Real bookshops can do much more than sell books. Those that act as focal points for book clubs, book launches and create an environment that encourages browsing tend to prosper. E-commerce will devastate our conventional retail system only if traditional establishments fail to react to the threat by innovating in ways that counter a future where everything will be bought on-line and delivered to our door. The pandemic lockdown showed how a local adoption of e-commerce can be useful in times of need. But if handled wisely, visiting real shops and interacting with people is no more likely to die out than future tourism is likely to replace actual tours by virtual tours. The truth is that shopping is not just an economic transaction involving clicks on a keyboard; it is also a social transaction that will remain an essential part of our lives in the community. That might just be the unique selling point of retail in our Northern & Western region. The US may not have understood the complexity of tariffs on EU pharmaceuticals when it was first suggested, the Irish premier Micheal Martin has said. On Wednesday, US president Donald Trump announced a minimum baseline tariff of 10% on all imports from all countries, with additional higher rates for some regions including a 20% tax on goods from Ireland and the rest of the EU. Pharmaceuticals are currently exempt from measures but Mr Trump has previously threatened tariffs on the sector and may yet make further orders. READ MORE: EXPLAINER: What are the rules when it comes to leaving children at home alone? Asked if he believed the tariff exemption would be temporary, Mr Martin said: We dont know that. I think whats happening there is its much more complex than might have been originally thought on the US side. There are a lot of complex supply chain issues. Also the cost of medicines would go up immediately for American citizens. Mr Martins comments expressed more uncertainty than deputy premier Simon Harris who had earlier said his working assumption was that the US administration intends to bring further tariffs on pharmaceuticals in the future, as part of the White Houses drive to increase domestic production. Mr Harris, who is also Irish Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister, said: I think we have to take President Trump at his word here. Speaking to RTEs Six One News, Mr Martin said pharmaceutical goods produced in Denmark, Belgium and Ireland were often intermediate products that required further work in the US. Other issues included the investment already put into EU factories for compliance, and the skilled workforce required. He said: You cant relocate them overnight and so the US could end up doing more damage to its own companies, I dont think thats what they want. Meanwhile, Mr Martin said he did not believe there was a widespread push within the EU for tariffs on US services, but said some of the larger member states may be pursuing that as a sort of nuclear option on day one. He said the Irish Government was against that, particularly as an initial response. There may be outstanding issues from the American side that we would acknowledge, then maybe we could resolve them by negotiation. Theres no point in doing something without really understanding the unintended consequences that can flow from decisions like this, he added. There had been significant anxiety in Ireland in the run-up to Wednesdays announcement, with the US administrations protectionist approach to tariffs and tax posing a major risk to the Irish economy that is in large part sustained by long-standing investment by US multinationals. The potential impact on the pharmaceutical sector, which employs around 45,000 people, was a particular cause of concern. Total Irish exports were valued at 223.8 billion euros last year, with roughly one third going to the US. Of the 72.6 billion euros in US imports from Ireland, approximately 58 billion euros relates to pharmaceuticals and chemicals leaving Ireland. It had been projected this could halve if Mr Trump had implemented a 20% tariff on the goods and the EU had responded in kind. The immediate suggestion that pharmaceuticals are not currently part of the new tariff measures comes despite both Mr Trump and his Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick previously focusing on Irelands moves to attract that sector. The US administration could still implement higher tariffs on pharmaceuticals at a later date, with the White House warning that future good-specific or sector-specific taxes may be announced. The industry will also have to examine the specifics of the lengthy and technical list of exemptions. Mr Harris said Ireland continues to engage with the US and points out that 80% of pharmaceutical exports to the US are not finished goods, and require further work in US factories which comes with jobs and taxes there. Mr Martin travelled to Washington DC last month, where the US president told him he did not want to do anything to hurt Ireland but added that the trade relationship between the countries should be focused on fairness. He accused the Irish Government of taking US pharmaceutical companies through attractive taxation measures and said: Were going to take back our wealth and take back a lot of the companies that left. He added: All of a sudden Ireland has our pharmaceutical companies, this beautiful island of five million people has got the entire US pharmaceutical industry in its grasp. Mr Lutnick, who has described Ireland as his favourite tax scam, told a podcast last month: They have all of our (intellectual property) for all our great tech companies and great pharma companies. They all put it there because its low tax. They dont pay us, they pay them, so that is going to end. Ireland was not specifically mentioned in the address, but Mr Trump focused on the planned response to the EU and elsewhere emphasised the importance of pharmaceuticals to the US. A DIRECTOR of a Mayo whiskey distillery hopes measures taken in advance of the introduction of US tariffs will allow them to take the hit on the worst impacts of the new 20 percent tariff. US President Donald Trump announced a 20 percent tariff on European Union imports to the US which included Irish whiskey, spirits and liqueurs imports in the US. The Irish Whiskey Association stated that the US tariffs could bring 'devastating impacts' to the spirits sector. However, Michael McKay, a director of Irish American Whiskey, which distills its own whiskey on Achill Island, explained that the company doubled their shipment to the US in January and hopes these measures will offset the effects of the tariffs. They [rumours of tariffs] have been rumbling for a while since Trump took power so we got out ahead of it at the start of the year and shipped over two or three containers of whiskey in January and February. READ: Very worrying Trump tariffs raise Mayo job fears We shipped double what we normally ship and that should cover us for the next year or two, They arrived before the tariffs so they won't affect us for the foreseeable future, Michael told The Mayo News. The Achill Island Distillery produces up to 15,000 bottles of whiskey per week with 50 percent of its Irish American premium brand products exported to the US. However, due to the fact they distill their own whiskey, Michael believes they will be able to take the hit on the tariffs which are brought in. The products that it would greatly affect we have already shipped and any future products we will be bringing out because we produce ourselves we can kind of afford to take the hit. If it was 200 percent [tariff] like they were talking about it, that would be a bigger concern. For now everyone is in the same boat and our competitors are feeling the same pinch. So hopefully it won't affect us too much. It is not ideal but it is not catastrophic," he explained but added that they also import raw materials from the US so he will be keeping an eye on any postential EU tariffs on US goods. Michael explained that over the last number of years they have been diversifying into new markets and are now exporting to Europe and Asia and are also selling in the International Duty Free Market. Obviously the States is the big market but we don't have all our eggs in one basket and we have diversified our export market over the last three or four years with Irish American and the Achill whiskey brand we have as well. It is not like America is the only show in town, he said. The distillery on Achill Island now employs ten people and Michael added that apart from the new tariffs the company has been growing with sales growing every year. We have been in Knock Airport for the last year and those sales are really flying. The better Knock does the better we seem to do as well. It is a slow process but we are gaining momentum every year. Meanwhile, Mayo TD and Sinn Fein spokesperson on Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Rose Conway-Walsh TD has urged the Irish government to engage with the Northern Executive to ensure the all-island economy is protected from the tariffs. Mayo TD Rose Conway-Walsh wants all-island approach to address new tariffs The possibility of a differentiation in tariffs on the island further compounds the threat to our national economy and clarity is required regarding the implications of the tariffs in the north under the terms of the Windsor Framework. Our island economy is inextricably linked in sectors such as agriculture, tourism and across supply chains. During the Brexit negotiations the Irish government helped ensure there was no hard border on the island of Ireland. The same diligence must be applied in this scenario in order to protect the prosperity of everyone on our island. Now is the time for a calm approach from the Irish government and for the maximum amount of engagement to take place on a north south basis and by the Irish government with the EU and US to ensure the best possible outcome for Irish businesses. It is widely acknowledged that US tariffs will damage the Irish economy, however counter tariffs from EU could also push up prices for Irish consumers and risk jobs so at this juncture I am calling for a measured approach from the Irish government aimed at de-escalating the situation rather than rushing headlong into the introduction of counter tariffs, she said. Mayo TD Keira Keogh has today expressed deep frustration and exasperation at the ongoing lack of Eir landline and broadband services in parts of Mayo, with some constituents still without connectivity for a staggering 69 days since Storm Eowyn. Unbelievably there are a few that are waiting for their service since Storm Darragh, which was over 100 days ago. Its simply not acceptable anymore, said Deputy Keogh. Ive been making almost daily representations on behalf of elderly and vulnerable constituents who have been left in limbo without any means of communication many of whom rely on landlines to stay safe. One such case involves a woman in her 90s, living alone with a personal panic alarm connected to a now-defunct landline. Her neighbours and carers have gone above and beyond to advocate for her, and I want to commend their kindness and persistence but she should never have been put in this position, said Keogh. Despite four separate representations Ive made on her behalf, as well as regular calls from her neighbours, her service has still not been restored. Another constituent, who has no mobile phone, had to physically travel to Keoghs constituency clinic to seek help. Shes been without service since Storm Darragh but is still receiving bills. That is indefensible. Constituents across Mayo have voiced their growing anger and confusion not just at the prolonged delays, but also at: The continued arrival of bills despite having no service; The difficulty of getting through to Eir customer service; The lack of information or clarity on when their services will be restored. READ MORE: Trump tariffs are not ideal but not catastrophic believes Mayo whiskey director Deputy Keogh acknowledged that Storm Eowyn caused unprecedented damage to the telecommunications network across Ireland, with Mayo among the worst-hit counties. She also recognised the commitment of Eir employees working on the ground and those who have been engaging with her. I dont doubt that some of the delays are due to the scale and complexity of the damage including the need to replace over 2,700 poles, manage tree removal on private land, and source specialist repair crews from abroad. But the bottom line is this: people need basic services like phones, panic alarms and the internet, especially the elderly and vulnerable, and this delay is far too long. Keogh also raised concerns that many people were unaware of the temporary mobile devices distributed by Eir or that they could request account credits for the period they were without service. People should not have to ask not to be charged for a service they didnt receive. That should be automatic. She is encouraging anyone with an elderly or vulnerable family member still without a landline or broadband to contact Eirs Age Friendly Care line at 1800 252 252, or to email her directly at keira.keogh@oir.ie. Eir has said they are prioritising the most vulnerable customers but I am seeing too many people slipping through the cracks. This has not just been a communications issue, its a public safety one. We need to see faster response times, better communication, and fairer treatment for those affected. People in Mayo deserve better. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, April 3, 2025 Google will pull information about promotions and products from a companys existing marketing materials on their sites to display across Search and services. AI will continue to automated processes across Google. This feature, which relies on automation, uses a businesss marketing content to improve on visibility across Google products rolled out on Thursday. Enrollment is automatic, but companies can opt out through Merchant Center settings. Automation depends on accurate data and algorithms, but an overreliance can lead to compliance and outdated information if left solely to machines. It also can lead to the potential for errors if not checked by humans. Googles feature serves up the information in search to alert consumers and those searching the web about new arrivals, sales or ongoing promotions, social-media profiles, and others to display in places across Google such as Search, Shopping, and Maps. Google will extract marketing information through automatic signups, or direct submissions when companies add Googles dedicated email address to their marketing lists. advertisement advertisement Google notes that it crawls through the marketing content to gather relevant data -- including but not limited to links to primary social media channels, highlighted social media content, upcoming or current sales and promotions, and brand images and videos. It also will gather information to analyze the companys voice and values to present to consumers. by Colin Kirkland , April 3, 2025 Famed American entrepreneur and former owner of the Dallas Mavericks Mark Cuban has funded a pre-seed round for Skylight, a decentralized TikTok alternative built on the AT Protocol, Blueskys open-source ecosystem. Shortly after U.S. lawmakers announced the passage of a bill that would effectively ban TikTok in the region if it was not sold by an American buyer, Cuban publicly shared his desire to fund an alternative app built on the AT Protocol, which allows developers to connect their creations to a larger ecosystem of servers and apps, including Blueskys social network. Venture capitalist Leslie Feinzaigs Graham & Walker Venture Fund also invested in Skylight, which is planning to launch its mobile app on Tuesday after only 10 weeks of active development. advertisement advertisement Skylight says it will offer users TikTok-adjacent features like an in-app video editor, customizable user profiles, and the ability to comment, like, share videos and follow other users. Upon joining Skylight, users will be automatically connected to Blueskys social network of almost 34 million users. Consequently, posts on Skylight can be seen by users on Bluesky and other apps built on the AT Protocol. The creators of Skylight -- Tori White (CEO) and Reed Harmeyer (CTO) -- became interested in the AT Protocol when they used Bluesky, impressed by the platforms user experience and underlying technology. According to TechCrunch, White and Harmeyer wanted to build a social platform that could be ban-proof. Due to its connection to the AT Protocol, they envision the apps future as more customizable than TikTok. The app is currently in beta on the Google Play Store and is public on Apples App Store after initial testing. by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, April 3, 2025 The ad industry is urging the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to reject proposed regulations that could broaden the sweep of the Fair Credit Reporting Act to cover a broad array of data brokers. The organization Privacy for America told the agency this week that the potential regulations would harm consumers, the economy, and small businesses by hindering data services companies practices that provide valuable and desired offerings to the marketplace. Members of Privacy for America include the American Association of Advertising Agencies, Association of National Advertisers, Digital Advertising Alliance, Interactive Advertising Bureau and Network Advertising Initiative. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau proposed the regulations last December, during the Biden administration. Since then, the Trump administration has taken steps to dismantle the agency, and it's not clear whether the proposal will move forward. advertisement advertisement For now, however, groups are weighing in with comments on the proposed regulations. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) prohibits consumer reporting agencies from sharing certain information about people's financial circumstances except for specific purposes -- including eligibility for credit or insurance underwriting, housing, employment and government benefits. The law also gives consumers the right to learn what's in their credit reports, and requires reporting agencies to correct or delete incorrect information. The agency's proposed rules would broaden the definition of consumer report and consumer reporting agency in ways that could cover many companies that hawk data. Currently, consumer report is generally defined as information collected by a consumer reporting agency about people's credit history, credit score, debt payments or income level, if that data is used or expected to be used for one of the specific purposes covered by FCRA. The proposed rules provide that information regarding consumers' credit history, score, debt payments and income is expected to be used for one of the purposes authorized by FCRA -- effectively transforming companies that amass such financial information into consumer reporting agencies. Privacy for America says this proposal would make certain kinds of information per se consumer reports, including credit history, credit score, debt payments, and income or financial tier information. The group adds that this type of economic data frequently is disclosed for a myriad of legitimate purposes. Information regarding financial tier, for example, may be disclosed for marketing efforts for rideshare services, discount grocery stores, or luxury goods to efficiently target an audience most likely to purchase a product, Privacy for America writes. The proposed rules also provide that data collectors are covered by the law if the information they amass is used by a downstream recipient for a FCRA-authorized purpose. Privacy for America argues that potential change would sweep in companies that may have taken steps to limit the use of the information they compiled. Under this proposal, a data services companys disclosure of information about a consumer could be subject to the FCRA even if the data services company carried out significant due diligence to prevent the use of the information for an FCRA purpose, including auditing its customers on a regular basis, engaging in data labeling, and taking other measures to prohibit downstream use for an FCRA purpose, the group writes. Privacy watchdogs largely support the proposed rules. The Electronic Privacy Information Center and others said this week in a filing that the proposed regulations will strengthen protections for consumers. That groups noted in their filing that information held by data brokers can pose threats to national security, expose consumers to fraud and other threats. Data brokers impose real harm on people by degrading privacy, security, and safety, the Electronic Privacy Information Center and others write. Restricting the share of data for only legally permissible purposes will cut off bad actors from directly receiving consumer information, they add. The Center for Digital Democracy said in a separate filing that the proposed rules will provide consumers with needed protections. Data brokers are currently in the forefront of providing digital 'dossiers' that identify and target U.S. financial consumers, especially through 'identity graph' services that enable personalized tracking and microtargeting, the Center for Digital Democracy wrote. This is especially true with the now-dominant digital video streaming system (connected, or CTV) that touches nearly every American household, including those with children. Consumer Reports generally supported the agency's proposal, but expressed concern that the potential rules could override stronger privacy protections in states that already regulate data brokers. That organization urged the agency to make clear that the potential changes don't cancel stronger state laws. by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, April 3, 2025 Users of voice-activated devices who claim Google wrongly recorded their conversations and shared snippets with outside parties are urging a federal judge to allow their lawsuit to proceed to trial. Google effectively embedded a live mic in tens of millions of individuals private lives, counsel for the consumers writes in papers filed Wednesday with U.S. District Judge Beth Labson Freeman in San Jose. The record is replete with evidence showing that Google not only knew the Assistant frequently activated and recorded individuals in situations where they did speak a hotword, but purposefully used audio resulting from those 'False Accepts' to create data sets, train machine learning models, and improve its technology, the plaintiffs' lawyers add. The battle centers on claims that Google violated its privacy policy by recording and sharing voice data in the absence of Hey, Google or OK, Google commands. Those hotwords signal owners' intention to interact with smart speakers, phones or other voice-activated devices. advertisement advertisement Google recently sought summary judgment in its favor, claiming that a privacy policy in effect between 2018 and 2022 provided that the company may collect voice and audio information when people use audio features. Counsel for the consumers is now asking the judge to reject that position. The plaintiffs' latest filing contains large swaths of blacked-out passages, but appears to argue that the privacy--policy language Google relies on doesn't apply when the company accidentally records conversations. The dispute dates to 2019, soon after Dutch radio broadcaster VRT reported that Google Home smart speakers and Google Assistant transmitted consumers' conversations to the company, even when people hadn't first given a hotword command. VRT also reported that Google sometimes sends portions of users' conversations to outside contractors who analyze language patterns. VRT said it had listened to more than 1,000 excerpts of conversations -- including 153 where participants hadn't said a hotword. Freeman is expected to hold a hearing in the case on May 8. by Teresa Buyikian , April 3, 2025 Soon Papa Johns may be able to predict what consumers want before they even place their order. Papa Johns and Google Cloud have entered into a multiyear partnership aiming to revolutionize the pizza maker's ordering and delivery experience using the power of artificial intelligence. Per the brand, the partnership will give the chain the ability to anticipate customer needs through using Google BigQuery, Vertex AI, and Gemini, thus resulting in proactively suggesting orders through push notifications or email. The chain also plans hyper-personalized loyalty experiences that will leverage Google's generative AI models against Papa Johns data to improve loyalty program rewards and benefits. Predictive ordering and personalized marketing will be used to provide relevant promotions and ordering shortcuts, and customer interactions will be AI-powered, using a chatbot for common questions and escalating more complex issues to live agents. advertisement advertisement Restaurant operations will also be optimized though a Google Cloud-based point-of-sale system, which will lay the foundation for AI-driven dispatching, route optimization, and intelligent automation of key restaurant processes. The brand expects the partnership will help Papa Johns generate more and higher value orders, reduce customer service costs, and improve customer satisfaction. "Our partnership with Google Cloud will enable us to take personalization to the next level. We're not just reacting to orders -- we're anticipating our customers' needs and proactively providing tailored recommendations and offers. This isn't just about convenience; it's about creating a truly joyful and personalized pizza experience that builds lasting loyalty," said Todd Penegor, president and CEO of Papa Johns, in the announcement by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, April 4, 2025 PayPal Ads based on privacy has launched in the United Kingdom. The service, first introduced in the United States last year, allows brands and merchants to show personalized ads to consumers based on previous purchases. The company plans to roll out the platform in phases, with the first ads serving up in July. Ads will serve up based on user "scaled shopping intent and transaction data. It will allow brands to create messaging and campaigns. Commerce and advertising are deeply connected, and we believe that the advertising solution we are building at PayPal will become a must-use marketing and revenue channel for merchants big and small, stated Mark Grether, general manager for PayPal Ads. In a world where shopping is agentic, invisible, and everywhere, brands need a partner that can help them reach these empowered shoppers. PayPal and its wealth of consumer knowledge - will help brands and merchants not only respond to demand, but also thrive in this new commerce ecosystem." advertisement advertisement PayPal debuted PayPal Ads last spring, with Grether to lead the project. Grether is the former head of advertising for Uber and a 20-year veteran. The company is estimated to have approximately 434 million active users as of December 2024, with 10.3 million live websites reportedly offering PayPal worldwide. PayPal is estimated to have a 45% share in the global payments market, generating about $31.8 billion in net revenue in 2024. In February, PayPal restructured its enterprise services together under PayPal Open, consolidating brands such as Braintree and Hyperwallet to create a business payment ecosystem, and on Tuesday announced an extended partnership with Verifone to strengthen its position in global ecommerce. Venmo remained a stand-alone brand in the U.S., as the company continues to build a global ad and retail network to support consumers and merchants. The plan is to take on the title of commerce enabler with its new platform and extended partnership. PayPals net revenue rose 4% year-over-year in Q4 2024, per its earnings release -- down from 9% last year, according to Emarketer. PayPal said it will continue to run advertising and marketing campaigns to familiarize consumers and businesses. by Colin Kirkland , April 4, 2025 Despite his promise to make a deal before April 5, President Trump has further extended the deadline to sell off TikTok to an American buyer, or fully ban the video-sharing app in the region. For weeks, both Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance have been assuring the American people that the White House would reach a TikTok sell-off deal by this Saturday. Last week, Trump told reporters that there are a lot of potential buyers who have tremendous interest in TikTok. The President also stated that he would consider giving China a little reduction in tariffs or something to finalize a deal by the proposed deadline. advertisement advertisement In the past few days, major potential buyers have approached the White House with bids to buy the ByteDance-owned company, which hosts 170 million active American users -- including AppLovin, Amazon, a startup led by OnlyFans founder Tim Stokely, and most recently, Walmart -- however, Trumps administration did not make a deal. The April 5 deadline will now be pushed forward 75 days, according to a TruthSocial post made by Trump on Friday. My Administration has been working very hard on a Deal to SAVE TIKTOK, and we have made tremendous progress, he wrote. The Deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an Executive Order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days. Trumps continued delays to the law passed by Congress earlier this year are legally dubious. They have been passed by executive orders, not official acts, such as the proposed Extend the TikTok Deadline Act -- a bill that lawmakers urged Trump to support last month that would push the deadline until October 16. Senators have called Trumps deadline extensions unlawful, arguing that the path to saving TikTok should run through Capitol Hill. It is unclear whether lawmakers who sponsored the bill will sue over Trumps multiple extensions. Shortly after Trump announced his decision to further delay the sell-off of TikTok, ABC News reported that Walmart is actively considering joining a group of investors to make a bid to buy the social platform. The multinational retailer attempted to team up with Microsoft to buy TikTok in 2020, providing Walmart with unfettered access to hundreds of millions of consumers, and the potential to grow their e-commerce business. Walmarts renewed interest in TikTok is likely a response to the recent offer by Amazon, a direct competitor. The U.S. military wants to keep training at Pohakuloa, so it's ready to quickly send troops to Asia and the Pacific. The Air Force says it's again allowing airmen and civilian employees to put their preferred personal pronouns in their email signatures and correspondence, backtracking on a Trump administration restriction after recognizing that a law exists protecting the practice. The Department of the Air Force, which includes the Space Force, announced Thursday it was scrapping the prohibition on pronouns as part of updated guidance on one of President Donald Trump's executive orders -- titled "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government" -- that aimed to deny legal recognition of nonbinary and transgender people. The news release said the "directive to cease the use of 'preferred pronouns' (he/him, she/her, or they/them) to identify one's gender identity in professional communications (email signature blocks, memoranda, letters, papers, social media, official websites and any [Department of the Air Force] official correspondence) is rescinded." Read Next: Family Lives in Fear After Marine Corps Denies Legal Claim over Abuse by Jailed Ex-Recruiter Military.com learned from an Air Force official that an existing law regarding the use of personal pronouns was behind the change. A provision in the National Defense Authorization Act signed into law by former President Joe Biden in 2023 explicitly states the defense secretary "may not require or prohibit a member of the armed forces or a civilian employee of the Department of Defense to identify the gender or personal pronouns of such member or employee in any official correspondence of the Department." The walkback of pronoun usage was welcomed by military LGBTQ+ advocates like Sue Fulton, an Army veteran and West Point graduate. "I'm pleased that some part of Trump's administration is still following the law," Fulton told Military.com in a phone interview Friday. The Department of the Air Force's decision to ban pronouns in email signatures came from a Feb. 4 memo issued not long after Trump's executive order. That directive, signed by Acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs Gwendolyn DeFilippi, named removing pronouns as the top action on a list of changes that needed to happen "immediately." Luke Schleusener, the CEO of Out in National Security -- a nonprofit organization that supports LGBTQ+ national security professionals -- told Military.com in a statement that backtracking on the policy falls in line with other hasty Trump administration decisions describing it as "sloppy, lazy and overloaded with animus." "At a time when the American people face growing global threats, these attacks on LGBTQIA+ service members, DoD civilians, and veterans make all of us less safe," Schleusener said. In late 2021, the Department of the Air Force announced it had allowed airmen and Space Force Guardians to include their pronouns in their correspondence. It was one of several major policy achievements of the service's LGBTQ Initiatives Team, a barrier analysis working group. But that team, as well as other barrier analysis working groups -- which advocated for a wide range of quality-of-life improvements such as beards for service members and better fitting body armor for women -- were gutted by the Air Force as part of its response to Trump's executive orders. Related: Air Force Groups that Advocated for Beard Policies, Better Body Armor Are Gutted by Trump Directive BRUSSELS European NATO allies and Canada on Friday said they are willing to ramp up defense spending but are cool on U.S demands for the size of their military budgets, particularly given President Donald Trumps readiness to draw closer to Russian leader Vladimir Putin. U.S. allies have spent billions of dollars more on defense since Putin ordered a full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago, but almost a third of them still do not meet NATOs target of at least 2% of their gross domestic product. Trump has said that U.S. allies should commit to spending at least 5%, but that would require investment at an unprecedented scale. According to NATO figures, the U.S. was projected to have spent 3.38% last year, the only ally whose spending has dropped over the last decade. It is important that we all agree that Russia is a threat. If not, I dont know why we should always increase more and more defense spending, Canada's Foreign Minister Melanie Joly told reporters at NATO headquarters in Brussels. At a summit last year, NATO leaders said Russia "remains the most significant and direct threat to Allies security. Trumps public rehabilitation of Putin, who had become an international pariah indicted for war crimes, has disturbed U.S. allies, and they believe the decision to rule out NATO membership for Ukraine weakened Kyivs hand at the negotiating table before peace talks have even begun. Beyond that, Europe and Canada were alarmed last month when the United States split with European allies by refusing to blame Russia for its invasion of Ukraine in votes on three U.N. resolutions seeking an end to the three-year war. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington is not insisting that its allies hit the 5% spending target overnight, but we think thats what NATO allies need to be spending for NATO to face the threats that itself has identified and articulated. Rubio said that the extra spending is required to beef up military capabilities. We are as involved in NATO today as we have ever been, and we intend to continue to be. But it has to be a real alliance. And that means that our alliance partners have to increase their own capabilities, he said. Asked whether the U.S. would also match the 5% target, Rubio said: Sure. Were heading there now. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said that his country has set itself an objective of 3%-3.5%, and we are preparing to reach 3%-3.5%, which is about the level of American defense spending. France was estimated to be spending 2.06% last year. He said new funds should be spent on European rather than American equipment. In recent years, European allies placed around two-thirds of their equipment orders with U.S. defense companies. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said that NATO members are working on setting a new spending target, to be announced at the next summit in June. But he said that 5% is of course much more than the U.S. itself spends and its a very high ambition and we are not ready to commit to a number at this time. Just as its important to spend more, its also important to spend more smartly. Editor's note: This article contains references to sexual assault. Lawyers for a former recruit are appealing the Marine Corps' decision to deny her legal claim alleging that the service failed to keep her safe from a gunnery sergeant who was sentenced to a year in prison via court-martial last year for abusing his authority as a recruiter against her. Now-Pvt. Christopher Champagne, 37, self-published a "memoir" detailing his inappropriate sexual behavior with a 17-year-old recruit applicant in 2023 while he worked as a Marine Corps recruiter in Texas, resulting in an investigation and his sentencing last fall, which included a dishonorable discharge, reduction in rank, and prison time. Read Next: Army Planners Are Weighing Force Reductions of Up to 90,000 Active-Duty Soldiers The former recruit and her family previously told Military.com that Champagne's behavior included alleged sexual assault; stalking; sextortion; plying her with alcohol; and manipulating her interactions with other prospective recruits in an effort to isolate her, among other abuses of power, only some of which were included among his court-martial charges. Champagne's ex-wife also alleged a pattern of abuse, including sexual assault, which she detailed to military and law enforcement entities, Military.com reported. "She wants accountability from the Marines, and she wants this not to happen to anyone else," Christine Dunn, an attorney representing the former recruit, said in a phone interview Thursday. "And the first step of preventing that is for the Marines to acknowledge that they messed up here and that there was a problem and to do better next time." Attorneys with Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight LLP filed a federal complaint against the Marine Corps in February 2024 on behalf of the former recruit, alleging that the service knew Champagne had a "history of sexual abuse," that he was violating Marine Corps policy, and that the service failed to maintain a safe premises at its facilities. In January, the Marine Corps denied the complaint, stating that it was legally immune to the former recruit's claims of harm caused by Champagne because the Federal Tort Claims Act -- a provision that allows individuals to sue the military -- exempts allegations related to assault, "abuse of process," and a handful of other exclusions, according to a response from the service provided by the law firm to Military.com. However, the response from the service did not address the claim that it negligently failed to maintain a safe premises at its facilities and that it "failed to protect her from the unreasonable and foreseeable harms" from Champagne, according to the law firm. On Wednesday, the former recruit's attorneys filed an appeal emphasizing the claim, citing other legal precedent regarding "safe premises" laws and noting that the service "misunderstood" the original litigation. "It feels like they are trying to avoid accountability based on a technicality," Dunn said. Referencing his sentencing, she said that "there's been an acknowledgment, a decision made that Champagne committed a harmful act against our client, but yet the Marines are holding up their hands and saying 'but it wasn't our fault.'" "He was an employee of the Marines. Our client was there as a poolee, a recruit of the Marines," she added. "And we think that the Marines owed her a duty to keep her reasonably safe, and they failed her." The former recruit and her family continue to live in fear of Champagne, according to her mother, Kathlyn, who spoke to Military.com in an interview Thursday. Those fears were further fueled when Champagne -- while incarcerated -- apparently started a social media page in an attempt to discredit his victim and reposted the "memoir" to an online publisher late last year, which then included the name of the former recruit, as well as her sister's name. Champagne previously used a pseudonym for the former recruit in his memoir. The post, reviewed by Military.com, showed that Champagne intended to write a "second act" to his original memoir. Military.com is withholding the name of Kathlyn's daughter -- as well as the family's last name -- given her age when the alleged abuse started and the publication's policy not to print the names of alleged sexual assault victims. Kathlyn contacted Marine Corps Air Station Miramar's law center in December with her concerns, asking the Marine Corps for help in stopping what she viewed as continued harassment from Champagne. A representative from the law center said that the service "will be taking follow-on action immediately" and would keep her updated, according to an email reviewed by Military.com. She said she did not hear back after that. The family had to fight "for weeks" to get the publisher to take down the "memoir" again, Kathlyn said. The social media page was still up as of Thursday. Meanwhile, the victim's family sold their house, moved and liquidated their assets, and the former recruit intends to change her name for fear that Champagne will try to find her once his sentence is up in September, as she continues with therapy and generally "has to disappear from society," Kathlyn said. "It's just pretty much destroyed all semblance of safety and planning we had for our lives," Kathlyn said. "She's doing the best she can with what she's been dealt with, but this man has systematically destroyed her, and the military doesn't care." The former recruit's original claim requested a sum of $5 million in damages, which Kathlyn said would help her daughter "start fresh" -- and disappear -- amid looming fears that Champagne will stalk or harm her once he is released. And after he allegedly broke a previous military restraining order amid the abuse, Kathlyn said that future protective orders are unlikely to "stop this maniac." Military.com contacted Headquarters Marine Corps on Thursday for comment on the appeal, but it did not respond. The publication also attempted to contact Champagne or his legal counsel Thursday through Naval Consolidated Brig Miramar, California, where he had been incarcerated, but a representative said that he had been moved to the brig at Camp Pendleton in the same state. A representative for the Pendleton brig referred Military.com to Champagne's unit and did not offer contact with him or his legal counsel when requested. When asked about the posts Champagne apparently made on social media and through the online publisher -- and whether he was using government resources such as internet access to do so -- a spokesperson for the service's Western Recruiting Region said, "Pvt. Champagne remains in the Camp Pendleton Base Brig. The Marine Corps is currently looking into these matters. We take all allegations seriously and have no further comment at this time." The spokesperson, Capt. Austin Gallegos, referred Military.com to the service's Regional Defense Counsel on Friday, which told the publication it could not provide information on Champagne's legal counsel or comment on the case. "I would never recommend anybody send their daughter into the military in any way, shape or form -- they're not safe," Kathlyn said. "Do not send your daughters into the military, because the way it's structured right now, there are predator men in there who will go after these women, and there's nothing to stop them, and there is no punishment, and the military is not held accountable in any way. "And that is 100% wrong, because there should be checks and balances in this organization to make sure our women are safe, and there isn't," she said. Related: Marine Recruiter Who Wrote 'Memoir' About Teenage Recruit Sentenced to Prison This MLive file photo from 2022 shows the above-ground portion of Enbridge's Line 5 pipeline at the company's Mackinaw Station. The oil pipeline travels under Great Lakes waters at the Straits of Mackinac. (Cory Morse | MLive.com) Cory Morse | MLive.com LANSING, MI Four Indigenous tribes and two environmental groups this week asked Michigans top court to overturn a state permit to build a tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac for an oil pipeline. In a court filing on Wednesday, the tribes and advocacy groups argued Michigan appellate judges misconstrued state environmental law when they signed off on a state permit to allow pipeline company Enbridge to build a utility tunnel under the Great Lakes to house a relocated section of its Line 5 oil pipeline. TRAVERSE CITY, MI The first egg of the year has hatched to a Northern Michigan bald eagle pair. The entire journey was captured via livestream. Eagles Harry and Harriet welcomed their first eaglet of the year on Thursday, April 3, at their nest along the west arm of Grand Traverse Bay near Traverse City. The couple returns every year to prepare their nest, lay their clutch and care for their eaglets, according to Great Lakes Bald Eagle Cam on YouTube. In 2024, Harriet laid three eggs, which all hatched and eventually fledged. At least two eggs were laid this year, with the first being on Feb. 25 and the second on Feb. 28. RELATED: Live bald eagle cam in Traverse City captures laying of first egg Around 8:30 a.m. today, the livestream caught the first glimpse of the eaglet that hatched yesterday. For the first time, we get a clear, backlit view of the newly hatched eaglet basking in the soft golden glow of sunrise, the video description says. Its fuzzy grey down feathers shimmer in the light as it stretches and nestles into the warmth of the nest bowl. A separate highlight video shows the first pip (break) in the egg, the eaglet hatching and moments between the eaglet and eagle parents. The second egg has yet to hatch. Find the livestream here. RELATED: Visit eagles at this picturesque vacation rental on Grand Traverse Bay Harry and Harriets nest is on 58 acres of private property. The home is available as a vacation rental and offers a view of the eagles nest from the living room window. Michigan is home to about 800 breeding pairs of bald eagles, ranking seventh among states. The United States has about 55,630 breeding pairs. Bald eagles are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Both laws prohibit killing, selling, or otherwise harming eagles, their nests or eggs. Black Bottom Street View is a new temporary exhibit at the Michigan History Museum in Lansing. On loan from the Black Bottom Archives, the exhibit brings to life Detroit's Black Bottom neighborhood through panoramic, free-standing murals. Visitors can walk through the neighborhood as it was in 1949-1950 before the City of Detroit razed it for redevelopment and highway projects. (Photo Courtesy of the Michigan History Museum) Photo Courtesy of the Michigan History Museum LANSING, MI -- Walk through one of Detroits historic Black neighborhoods and get a glimpse of what like was like in 1950 at this new exhibit at the Michigan History Museum. The new contemporary exhibit, Black Bottom Street View, takes visitors through the Detroit neighborhood from 1949 to 1950, before the neighborhood was razed for redevelopment and highway projects. To celebrate the new exhibit, the museum is offering free admission all day on Saturday, April 5. A special event will take place from 12-3 p.m. to unveil the exhibit, including a panel discussion about the history of the neighborhood and its legacy in Detroit and contemporary culture. The 1 p.m. panel discussion will host Black Bottom Archives and former neighborhood residents. The Black Bottom Street View exhibit features free-standing murals so visitors can walk through for an immersive experience. The Detroit Historical Society describes the Black Bottom Neighborhood as a predominantly Black neighborhood made up of Southerners who settled in Detroit for auto factory jobs. The neighborhood was located on Detroits near east side, bounded by Gratiot Avenue, Brush Street, the Detroit River, and the Grand Trunk railroad tracks, according to the Historical Society. It overlapped with the neighborhood Paradise Valley, north of Gratiot, which became well known for black-owned businesses, social institutions and night clubs, nationally famous for its music scene, including ties to Aretha Franklins family. The Black Bottom neighborhood was hit hard economically during the Great Depression due to its large makeup of auto workers. During World War II, the neighborhood fell into physical disrepair as a housing shortage and racial discrimination restricted Black residents to the increasingly overcrowded Black Bottom area, according to the Historical Society. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Black Bottom was demolished for redevelopment and replaced with the Lafayette Park residential district and a freeway, according to the Historical Society. Relocation assistance was minimal, according to the Historical Society, leaving many former Black Bottom and Paradise Valley residents to vacate in 30 days. A number of the residents relocated to large public housing projects such as the Brewster-Douglass Housing Projects Homes and Jeffries Homes. The Black Bottom Street View exhibit is presented by Black Bottom Archives, a living community archive founded in 2015 with the purpose of preserving Black Detroit stories. The exhibit will remain at the museum for the remainder of the year. The free admission and parking on Saturday, April 5 extends for the whole day so visitors are encouraged to carry onto to other parts of the museum as well. The Michigan Library and Historical Center building, home of the Michigan History Museum and the Archives of Michigan, is located in downtown Lansing at 702 W. Kalamazoo St. RELATED: A historic Black cemetery was abandoned 60 years ago. Now, it could be restored. RELATED: Ann Arbors Black neighborhood was once targeted for demolition. Now its home to $1M condos. RELATED: Black history museum opens new space in 180-year-old farmhouse near Ann Arbor Economic activists aiming to cause financial harm to big business are setting their sights on the largest retailer in the country. Starting Monday, April 7, a weeklong boycott of Walmart is being organized by The Peoples Union USA. The boycott calls for zero spending at Walmart stores, on the Walmart website or at Sams Club warehouses and gas stations. Sams Club is owned by Walmart. That includes using the pharmacy and delivery services available at Walmart as well. John Schwarz, the founder of The Peoples Union launched the movement in February with a one-day boycott of brands like Walmart, Amazon, McDonalds, and more. Schwarz says the movement is non-partisan and is about organizing consumers to fight back against what he calls corporate greed. Weve been watching prices rise while wages stay the same. Weve watched these companies rake in billions while families can barely afford groceries, Schwarz said in a social media post Friday. And Walmart, just like the rest of them, has been a part of that problem. Approximately 90% of Americans live within 10 miles of a Walmart location. According to Walmart, 255 million people shop at Walmart locations and eCommerce websites each week. Last month, The Peoples Union boycotted Amazon for one week and all Nestle products for another. While its impossible to know whether the short-term boycotts have any immediate impact on the companies, Schwarz says its important for consumers to show unity and continue to protest with their wallets before its too late. This isnt about hate. This is about strategy, its about our power. Because if we dont start fighting the fight now, there wont be much left to fight for, Schwarz said. The Peoples Union boycotts are just one of several ongoing efforts by consumers in the U.S. to express their unhappiness with company policies and practices. Organizers in Atlanta started a 40-day boycott of Target last month after the retailer announced it was pulling back on its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies. Similar boycotts have been suggested for companies like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Disney, Chipotle and more. However, those efforts dont appear to have gained as much national attention as others. As for The Peoples Unions future protests, a second total economic blackout is set for April 18 and a weeklong boycott of General Mills is planned to begin on April 21. More than 800 members of the Michigan National Guard have been mobilized to assist residents impacted by ice storms, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Friday. (U.S. Army National Guard photo More than 800 members of the Michigan National Guard have been mobilized to assist residents impacted by ice storms, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Friday. Most of the units are staged at Camp Grayling and began deploying to communities in Northern Michigan on Thursday. Our Soldiers and Airmen live and serve in the communities that are impacted by this ice storm and we are committed to helping our neighbors overcome this historic storm, said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. We are working alongside our local and state agency partners to help clear roadways overcome by debris and supporting delivery of pallets of food to areas in need. Units, a complete list of which can be seen below, are assisting in a variety of ways, with mobile chainsaw teams and engineering equipment moving between locations to support debris clearing operations. Crewa are also helping restore power to communities and reestablishing access to emergency communications sites alongside the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State Police and Michigan Department of Transportation. A powerful ice storm that swept across much of state on March 30, causing damage that Michigan State Police spokesperson Kim Vetter called nothing short of catastrophic. The Mackinac Bridge was closed for a record 30 hours due to falling ice. A state of emergency has been declared in Otsego, Montmorency, Presque Isle, Emmet, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Mackinac, Alpena, Alcona and Atrium counties. The following units are participating in response efforts: As Michiganders continue to deal with the aftermath of a catastrophic ice storm, one Up North power co-op CEO is comparing it to the infamous Blizzard of 1978. From Friday to Sunday, heavy and long-lasting freezing rain and a line of severe storms struck the northern Lower Peninsula. Trees weighed down with ice sagged and snapped. Some fell onto power lines while others toppled into roadways, making some routes impassable. Hundreds of power poles broke. The ice remained into Wednesday, bringing down evermore trees, power poles and power lines. RELATED: Destructive spring ice storm debilitates Northern Michigan, see videos Over the course of three days, the January 1978 blizzard buried both peninsulas in snow feet of it in some areas. More than 400,000 homes and businesses were without power. Ambulances got stuck in snow drifts. Police cruisers were ordered off the dangerous roads. Up to 100,000 vehicles were abandoned on roadways. Twenty people died. But, in some ways, last weekends storm was worse, said Eric Baker, CEO of Wolverine Power Cooperative. I grew up in that storm, he said Wednesday. This ice storm was orders of magnitude worse. RELATED: Similar to a hurricane: 10s of thousands still without power as utility rebuilds grid after ice storm Baker was speaking in terms of on-going hardship to Michiganders and damage to the electrical grid. At its peak, this storm caused power outages to about 100,000 customers. Seven days later, nearly 40,000 homes and businesses remain without power and it could be days more before the lights, heat and water (for those using wells) are back on. RELATED: Catastrophic damage: Thousands of miles of powerlines smothered in ice after Northern Michigan storm Cleanup is ongoing. The extent of the damage to the electrical distribution system is still unknown. Baker recalls that blocked roads and power outages lasted three, four or maybe five days in 1978. RELATED: Why this Northern Michigan ice storm damage is so tough to fix The amount of ice that accumulated during last weekends storm and how long it remained was unprecedented, and caused damage to the huge, buzzing transmission lines and electrical substations that Wolverine operates that didnt happen in 1978. Those were repaired by Tuesday, he said. The word devastation is often casually tossed around, he said. I think its absolutely appropriate. Baker said that a lot of the damage was from the sheer weight of the ice on the electrical equipment. The 1978 storm primarily brought snow and wind, which the electrical system is highly resilient to, he said. RELATED: Out of fuel, out of power: Michigan counties hit by ice storm seek local emergency declarations This is ice, and that is a storm that not only takes down electrical structures, but it takes down trees that then take down electrical structures, Baker said. Thats the challenge here. Baker and Great Lakes Energy CEO Shaun Lamp have also compared the damage to a hurricane - but worse because the ice stayed for so long. The damage we sustained was similar to a hurricane that lasted three days, Lamp said in a video update on Thursday. The damage to our system is catastrophic and easily the most devastating storm weve ever faced. Entire sections of our infrastructure are on the ground. About 29,000 GLE customers are without power as of Friday afternoon, according to the companys outage map. Consumers Energys outage map shows nearly 9,000 Northern Michigan customers without power. On Monday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency related to the ice storm for 10 counties: Otsego, Oscoda, Montmorency, Presque Isle, Emmet, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Mackinac and Alpena. Citizens needing non-emergency assistance should call 211. MLive reporter Sheri McWhirter contributed to this report. A week after a devastating ice storm hit Northern Michigan, 10s of thousands of households and businesses are still without power. It could be days more before the lights come back on. The damage we sustained was similar to a hurricane that lasted three days, said Great Lakes Energy CEO Shaun Lamp in a video update on Thursday. The damage to our system is catastrophic and easily the most devastating storm weve ever faced. Entire sections of our infrastructure are on the ground. RELATED: Destructive spring ice storm debilitates Northern Michigan, see videos Sleet, heavy and long-lasting freezing rain and a line of severe storms struck the northern Lower Peninsula between Friday night and Sunday afternoon. Ice covered trees, causing them to sag and snap under the weight. Some fell onto power lines while others toppled into roadways, making some routes impassable. Hundreds of power poles broke. Power outages topped 100,000 homes and businesses at their peak. RELATED: Catastrophic damage: Thousands of miles of powerlines smothered in ice after Northern Michigan storm Ice was still coating everything on Wednesday five days after the storm hit and that represents a big difference between this storm and a hurricane, said Eric Baker, CEO of Wolverine Power Cooperative, which supplies energy to GLE. When a hurricane comes through, its devastating in Florida, but once its gone, its gone, Baker said Wednesday. Whats plaguing us is its like were in the middle of a five-day hurricane. 87 1 / 87 Ice storm damage in Northern Michigan Nearly 40,000 customers are still without power as of 11:30 a.m. Friday. RELATED: Why this Northern Michigan ice storm damage is so tough to fix GLEs power grid is decimated, requiring the utility to not just restore power but to rebuild the infrastructure, Lamp said. Miles of power lines are down, and more than 800 broken poles have been identified and the damage assessment isnt even complete, he said. We anticipate this number could more than double, Lamp said of the downed poles. It takes hours to replace each downed pole, according to the companys blog. More than 600 crewmembers are working long days in extreme environments and are battling through impassable roads just to reach the damage, he said. It could be many more days before some of the hardest hit areas have power, Lamp said. The damage from this storm is not a typical restoration. What were doing now is rebuilding the system in many areas. Rebuilding takes more time than restoring. Nearly 30,000 GLE customers are without power as of Friday morning, according to the companys outage map. Consumers Energys outage map shows nearly 9,000 Northern Michigan customers without power. The ice Up North, the extensiveness of it is something that we had not seen before, Katie Carey, director of media relations for Consumers Energy, told MLive on Tuesday. RELATED: Out of fuel, out of power: Michigan counties hit by ice storm seek local emergency declarations On Monday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency related to the ice storm for 10 counties: Otsego, Oscoda, Montmorency, Presque Isle, Emmet, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Mackinac and Alpena. Citizens needing non-emergency assistance should call 211. MLive reporter Sheri McWhirter contributed to this report. Wayne State University received a $50 million gift to advance research, entrepreneurship and promote student success in its College of Engineering. (MLive.com file photo) MLive.com file photo Wayne State University received a $50 million gift to advance research, entrepreneurship and promote student success in its College of Engineering. It is the single largest gift received in Wayne States 157-year history, according to WSU officials. The gift made by alumnus James A. Anderson and his wife, Patricia, prompted WSU to rename the College of Engineering in their honor to the James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering. Wayne State University President Kimberly Andrews Espy announced the gift in a news release on April 4. The transformative gift will support doctoral fellowships, undergraduate student experiences, a fund to recruit top faculty and PhD students and strengthen student initiatives, according to the release. Their gift ensures that our graduates will power the future of Detroit and Michigans economy into the next era of innovation and support our accomplished faculty to nurture their ideas into solutions and thriving businesses, Andrews Espy said in a statement. Anderson earned a Bachelors degree at WSU in 1966, followed by a Masters degree in 1970. He began his career in 1967 as an instructor at the College of Engineering. He worked to develop environmental models and computer mapping techniques to display data before founding Urban Science, an automotive consultancy and technology firm in Detroit. The firm now has more than 20 offices around the world. Since my time as a student, and later a faculty member, at Wayne State University, Ive witnessed firsthand the power of a quality STEM education in transforming lives, economies and communities, Jim Anderson said in a statement. My wife, Patricia, and I are humbled and grateful for the opportunity to expand our commitment to this renowned institution a world-class training ground for Detroits next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs. Were confident this gift will continue to create new opportunities for high-paying STEM careers, foster innovation and drive progress in the Motor City and beyond, and were honored to work alongside WSUs esteemed leadership to bring it to fruition. In 2015, WSU received a $40 million gift from Mike and Marian Ilitch for a new business school. Related: Wayne State University officially announces $40M Ilitch gift to biz school Here's the traffic restrictions and road work across Washtenaw County for Friday, April 4, and the week ahead. Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI Drivers can expect freeway closures and more traffic interruptions from high rise construction in the Ann Arbor area. The eastbound M-14 ramp to southbound U.S. 23 will close for maintenance this weekend. Read More: Closure coming to M-14, U.S. 23 interchange Church Street between Willard and Hill streets will close starting Monday, April 7. It will stay closed for about three weeks while while crews install underground utilities for the 17-story development known as Rambler Ann Arbor at 711 Church St. Heres a round-up of other traffic restrictions and road work affecting commute times and travel across the county for Friday, April 4, and the week ahead. ANN ARBOR South Forest Avenue: The street is closed between Willard and Hill streets until 5 p.m. April 4 for a crane removal. Pauline Boulevard: The road between Seventh and Main streets will close 7 a.m. Monday, April 7 until the end of July for the installation of a new water main. Huron Street: A lane will close at 4th Street 7 a.m. Monday, April 14 until 5 p.m. Friday, May 16 for construction Church Street: Between Willard and Hill streets, the corridor will road will close 9 a.m. Monday, April 7. It will remain closed until 7 p.m. Saturday, April 26 while crews install underground utilities for the 17-story development known as Rambler Ann Arbor at 711 Church St. South Division Street: Between Hill Street and Hoover Avenue, the street will close at 7 a.m. Tuesday, April 8 until 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8 while University of Michigans South Fifth Housing and Dining project installs utility service leads and water main. Hill Street: The street is closed from South Fifth Avenue to South Division Street until 7 p.m. Monday, April 7 while University of Michigans South Fifth Housing and Dining project installs utility service leads and water main. Miller Avenue: The street is closed between Newport Road and Seventh Street until 7 p.m. Monday, July 7 while crews install water main, stormwater drains road curbs and pavement. East Washington Street: The westbound lane is closed between South Division and South State streets until 5 p.m., Friday, May 16. The closure comes as as construction continues on a 19-story high rise on 616 E. Washington St. Church Street: The northbound lane between Willard and Hill streets is closed for almost two years for the construction of a high-rise apartment building . The lane will reopen April 1, 2027. East Medical Center Drive Bridge: Traffic is shifted to the east side for the third phase of the rehabilitation and widening project through Friday, June. 20. One vehicle lane in each direction on the bridge will remain open throughout the project duration. Other restrictions include the following. No northbound East Medical Center Drive left turn will be allowed onto westbound Fuller Road. No southbound Maiden Lane left turns will be allowed onto eastbound Fuller Road. OTHER WASHTENAW COUNTY PROJECTS: Ann Arbor Township - M-14: The eastbound ramp to southbound U.S. 23 and eastbound M-14 will close for maintenance 6 a.m. Saturday, April 5 until 5 a.m. Monday, April 7. Ann Arbor Township - U.S. 23: A lane will close from Nixon Road to M-14 for construction at 6 a.m. Saturday, April 5 until 5 a.m. Monday, April 7. Ann Arbor Township - Pontiac Trail: The bridge is closed in both directions at M-14 and U.S. 23 through 7 a.m. June 6. Dexter Township - Dexter-Pinckney Rd: There will be lane restrictions between North Territorial Road and the Livingston County Line until March 31 for drainage and forestry work. Lima Township - Parker Road: There are lane restrictions between Jackson and Dexter Chelsea roads until March 24 for forestry work. Lima Township - Dexter-Chelsea Road: A daytime road closure is in place through April 7 between Freer and Dancer roads for forestry work. Northfield Township - North Territorial Road: There will be lane restrictions west of Whitmore Lake Road indefinitely due to a shoulder failure. Northfield Township - Joy Road: The Joy Road bridge over U.S. 23 is closed indefinitely while crews complete a partial demolition of the overpass that was severely damaged when a semitrailer hit it . Pittsfield Township - Platt Road: There are intermittent lane closures between Textile and Morgan roads through May 2025 for permit work. Scio Township - Staebler and Park roads: The intersection is closed through May 2025 for culvert installation and road paving. A detour map is available online . Superior Township - Stamford Road: The shoulder is closed between MacArthur Boulevard and Norfolk Avenue through April 11 for utility work. Ypsilanti Township - Tyler Road: The road is closed through May 2025 between McGregor and Airport roads for bridge approach repairs. Ypsilanti Township - East Sugarbrook Community: There will be lane restrictions through May 2025 for water main and road improvements. Ypsilanti, Augusta townships - Bemis Road: There are lane restrictions between Whittaker and Rawsonville roads until April 15 for forestry work. Ypsilanti, Augusta townships - Bemis Road: There are lane restrictions between Hitchingham and Stony Creek roads until April 15 for utility work. Ann Arbor police found a 3D-printed gun during a traffic stop Oct. 12., 2024. Provided by the Ann Arbor Police Department ANN ARBOR, MI -- A 19-year-old charged with carrying a 3D-printed firearm has been sentenced to probation. Mohamed Kaba was sentenced March 31 to one year of probation by Washtenaw County Trial Court Judge Jinan Hamood, according to court records. He was also sentenced to 27 days in jail, with credit for 27 days already served. Two men were seriously injured Friday morning after their van was struck by a semi-truck. (MLive file photo) John Tunison ALLENDALE TOWNSHIP, MI Two men were seriously injured Friday morning after their van was struck by a semi-truck. The Ottawa County Sheriffs Office says both men are expected to survive their injuries. The crash was reported just before 10 a.m. Friday, April 4, at the intersection of 64th Avenue and Pierce Street in Allendale Township. Deputies say the van, driven by a 26-year-old Wyoming man, was headed westbound on Pierce Street when it came to a halt at the stop sign at the intersection with 64th Avenue. The driver then entered the intersection but failed to yield to a semi-truck with a dump trailer, deputies said. The semi-truck was headed northbound on 64th Avenue, which had no stop sign at the intersection. The semi-truck struck the van, causing serious injuries to the Wyoming man and his 26-year-old passenger from Saranac. Both men were transported to a hospital in Grand Rapids and are expected to survive, deputies said. The 50-year-old Grand Haven man driving the semi-truck was uninjured in the crash. The intersection was closed for about an hour as crews cleared debris from the crash. The Ottawa County Sheriffs Office was assisted by Life EMS and the Allendale Township Fire Department. The crash remains under investigation. Grand Rapids is planning a fun slate of events this year in honor of the 175th anniversary of when the city was established. GRAND RAPIDS, MI Grand Rapids is planning a fun slate of events this year in honor of the 175th anniversary of when the city was established. On Wednesday, April 2, city officials marked 175 years since the city of Grand Rapids was incorporated on April 2, 1850. The city is planning exciting events, contests and digital collaborations to celebrate the citys anniversary this year, according to a news release from the city. Information about the events, along with the citys history, can be found at www.175GR.com. We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone with our community, said Doug Mattews, assistant city manager. Grand Rapids has such a storied past and a bright future. ... Join us as we embark on this exciting journey to celebrate 175 years of community, culture, and progress in Grand Rapids! Here is a brief glimpse at some things the city has planned for 2025 to celebrate the citys anniversary, although the city said more information will come in the next few months: Grand Rapids birthday party : The citys official birthday party, presented by Consumers Energy, will take place Saturday, June 7, at Rosa Parks Circle. 175 Pictures for 175 Years A Mobile Museum Exhibit: In collaboration with the Grand Rapids Public Museum, the city will present a traveling mobile museum exhibit, showcasing 175 pictures that highlight key moments in the citys 175-year history. The exhibit will make stops throughout the city and be featured at several upcoming events. Digital Collaborations and Contests: The city of Grand Rapids is working on several digital initiatives, including contests and collaborations, to celebrate the citys anniversary online. Residents are encouraged to use the hashtag #175GR on any photos shared online. 175th Anniversary Logo: The city created an official 175th Anniversary logo that will be used for any events or social media posts related to the celebration. The brand guidelines and the logo can be downloaded at The city created an official 175th Anniversary logo that will be used for any events or social media posts related to the celebration. The brand guidelines and the logo can be downloaded at grandrapidsmi.gov/GR175-Logos The land where Grand Rapids is situated today is the ancestral land of the Anishinaabe people, who called the area Owashtenong, according to the citys news release. Multiple villages of Native American people lived along the Grand River Valley, which was governed by a confederation of 19 Odawa bands that is now referred to as the Grand River Band of Ottawa Indians. In 1821, tribal leaders signed the Treaty of Chicago, which ceded much of the land in West Michigan to the U.S. federal government. French trader Louis Campeau established a trading post along the banks of the Grand River in 1826, and five years later, he bought 72 acres of land from the federal government for $90 and named it Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids had a population of 2,686 when it became a city on April 2, 1850, according to the news release. By 1857, the citys boundary totaled 10.5 square miles. Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter. Jerell Lindsey with attorneys, Anna White (right) and Abraham Gonzales. John Agar HOLLAND, MI - A man accused of killing his 41-year-old neighbor last April has been found guilty as charged on Friday, April 4. Jerell Alexander Lindsey was convicted of one count of open murder, three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and two counts of felony firearm by a jury of his peers at trial. The Ottawa County 20th Circuit Court confirmed the trial lasted four days, from April 1 to 4. Police identified Miguel Raul Zamudio, 41, of Holland, as the victim of the shooting, which happened on West 19th Street between Cleveland and Harrison avenues, while he was with family last spring. Related: Police investigate bomb threat in connection with Holland shooting The family started heading inside when Lindsey shot Zamudio in the head. He died a day later at Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital. Police said that the two did not know each other; that Lindsey lived around the corner on Harrison with his significant other, Rita Freeman, and her children. Holland police determined that the suspect had just left his home after he had pointed a gun at his girlfriend. Lindsey is set to be sentenced for all six counts at 11 a.m. on May 12. Qahwah House imports its coffee directly from a family-owned farm in Yemen to over 20 cafes in the U.S. Photo by Ehren Wynder GRAND RAPIDS, MI A Yemeni coffee company based in Dearborn has made its Grand Rapids debut. Qahwah House in March opened its first West Michigan location inside Knapps Corner at 2107 E. Beltline Ave. NE in Grand Rapids. In addition to organic, farm-to-cup coffee shipped directly to the U.S. from a family-owned farm in Yemen, the cafe also sells tea, cold beverages and a variety of Middle Eastern pastries. Grand Rapids is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan, said General Manager Ammar Hasan, who immigrated to the U.S. from Jordan. After I moved here, I looked around and felt that bringing something like this coffee shop that people have never had before would be a great idea. Yemeni coffee is characterized by a sweet flavor and low acidity compared to other beans, Hasan said. Qahwah House Founder Ibrahim Alhasbani comes from a family of coffee growers stretching back eight generations, according to the company website. Founded in Dearborn in 2017, the company has since established over 20 cafes in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Wisconsin, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, North Carolina and Texas. People also can buy the companys whole-bean and ground coffee blends on its website. Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter. Sarah Grey will replace the retiring Dave Faber as the Superintendent of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids. (Photo provided by the Diocese of Grand Rapids) Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids GRAND RAPIDS, MI - The Diocese of Grand Rapids recently announced the selection of its next superintendent of Catholic schools, replacing 15-year Superintendent Dave Faber. Faber, who announced his retirement last May, will be succeeded by Sarah Grey. Shes served as assistant superintendent for Catholic schools since Fall of 2020. Grey will take over for Faber on July 1. RELATED: Grand Rapids Catholic schools superintendent earns national education award Reverend David J. Walkowiak, bishop of Grand Rapids, said the decision came after an extensive search of both internal and external candidates conducted by a committee of diocesan and community leaders. Sarah has dedicated her career to advancing Catholic education, Walkowiak said, and I am confident that she will continue to make our Catholic schools places where students come to know, love and serve God and grow in their Catholic faith, identity and mission. Grey has 20 years experience in Catholic school education, beginning her career as a middle school teacher at Guardian Angels Catholic School in Denver, Colorado. She then became assistant principal at Annunciation Catholic School and principal at Assumption Catholic School, also both in Denver. Catholic schools are transformational, Grey said, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead while supporting pastors, principals, teachers, students and the greater Catholic community as we work together for the continued growth and pursuit of excellence in our Catholic schools. Grey grew up in Toledo, Ohio, where she attended Catholic schools from preschool through 12th grade. She received her bachelors degree from the University of Notre Dame, with a major in anthropology and a minor in education schooling and society. Grey received a masters of education through the universitys Alliance for Catholic Education program, and a masters in educational leadership through the Mary Ann Remick Leadership Program. She will now provide leadership for the 31 Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the diocese. I look forward to building on the strong legacy established by Dave and working with Bishop Walkowiak to ensure our schools remain integrated in the evangelizing mission of the diocese, Grey said. With four consecutive years of enrollment growth, diocesan leaders said they are in a strong position as the transition occurs. Enrollment is up by 7.23% since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 6,456 students enrolled for the 2024-25 school year. RELATED: West Michigan Catholic school enrollment up 7% as church expands pre-K options Faber will leave the diocese after nearly 32 years of experience in Catholic education, including 17 years as the principal for St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic School in Grand Rapids. This year, he received the Karen M. Ristau Innovations Award, which recognizes individuals and programs with a positive impact on Catholic education, from the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA). If you would like more reporting like this delivered free to your inbox, click and signup for our weekly newsletter: Michigan Schools. A person was arrested Friday morning after allegedly firing a firearm during a domestic dispute. (MLive file photo) HOLLAND TWP., MI A person was arrested Friday morning after allegedly firing a firearm during a domestic dispute. The Ottawa County Sheriffs Office says no one was injured in the incident. The incident was reported just before 8:45 a.m. Friday, April 4, in the area of 136th Avenue and Greenly Street. Ottawa County sheriffs deputies say they were called to the area on reports of a domestic disturbance and a shot being fired. Deputies determined the gunshot stemmed from a domestic dispute. They recovered a firearm and arrested one person without incident. Deputies provided no further information about the suspect or the dispute. The incident remains under investigation. Jackson County couple Paul and Christy Akeos have reportedly been held in a Mexican prison since early March over a credit card dispute with a Cancun hotel, according to their daughter Lindsey Hull. Photo used with permission. Photo used with permission. JACKSON COUNTY, MI Paul and Christy Akeo are coming home after spending a month behind bars in a Mexican prison amid a timeshare dispute. The couples attorney, Stu Mollrich, announced Thursday night, April 3, they were released and headed back to Michigan following their 32-day ordeal. The Akeo family wishes to thank President Donald J. Trump, his Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Adam Boehler and Congressman Tom Barrett for working tirelessly for the release of Paul and Christy Akeo, the family said in a written statement. The family is declining interviews at this time, Mollrich said. The Spring Arbor couple were arrested in Mexico on March 4 shortly after landing in Cancun for a vacation and have been in a maximum security prison since their arrest, Christy Akeos daughter Lindsey Hull wrote on social media Monday, March 24. Hull said her mother and stepfather challenged wrongful credit card charges made by their hotel, Palace Resorts. The resort allegedly demanded $250,000, a public apology on Facebook and a non-disclosure agreement, Hull wrote. When the couple refused, Hull said the couple was arrested. Authorities in Mexico charged the couple with fraud after they canceled 13 transactions to the hotel chain in a dispute over when the couple could use their timeshare, according to a report on Good Morning America. U.S. Rep. Tom Barrett traveled to Mexico, April 2, to check on the couple and work to secure their release. Related: Michigan congressman travels to Mexico to aid couple jailed in timeshare dispute Barrett met with the couple before meeting with the president of the Quintana Roo Supreme Court to expedite their release, he said. By the end of the day the couple boarded a plane with Barrett, returning to the United States, Barrett posted on X formerly known as Twitter. Paul and Christy Akeo are coming home. Mission accomplished, he wrote. Paul is a U.S. Navy veteran with 21 years of honorable service as a submariner. He works as a Mechanical Engineer for the Michigan State Police. Christy ran a small business for many years and is a mom and grandmother. Through four straight weeks of fear and uncertainty, Congressman Barretts commitment to bringing our parents home safely provided us with hope and reassurance, Hull said in a written statement. Barrett too is a veteran. He served 22 years in the U.S. Army. He traveled to Cancun at great personal risk, camped out at the prison and made it clear that he would not return home without them. His heroic efforts as a veteran represent the finest traditions of our nations military to never leave an American behind. Want more Jackson-area news? Bookmark the local Jackson news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Jackson daily newsletter. Gabriel Fluffy Iglesias will perform at the Allegan County Fair on Friday, Sept. 5, the Allegan County Fair announced. (Allegan County Fair) ALLEGAN COUNTY, MI Actor/comedian Gabriel Fluffy Iglesias and puppet master Jeff Dunham will join forces for an epic night of laughs at the Allegan County Fair this September. The two comedians will bring their unique styles to the fair at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, the Allegan County Fair announced on Friday, April 4. Gabriel Fluffy Iglesias is famous for hilarious takes on life and the slogan that helped catapult his career: Im not Fat, Im Fluffy, which is also the title of his 2009 television special. On TV, Iglesias is the star and executive producer of the Netflix original comedy series, Mr. Iglesias. Iglesias has also released stand-up comedy specials with Netflix. Iglesias recently co-starred Tim Allen in the second season of Disney+s The Santa Clauses. Jeff Dunham is perhaps best known for what he wears on his hand. Jeff Dunham will perform at the Allegan County Fair on Friday, Sept. 5, the Allegan County Fair announced. (Allegan County Fair) Dunham received a toy ventriloquist dummy for Christmas at the age of 9 and began to practice, dreaming of characters who could say what nobody else would dare, according to his biography. His show progressed to events and then comedy clubs and onto arena shows. Dunham now holds the Guinness Book of World Records record for Most Tickets Sold for a Stand-Up Comedy Tour, according to Allegan County Fair organizers. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 11. This isnt the first big show announced for the Allegan County Fair this year. Country music star Cole Swindell will also perform. Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter. KALAMAZOO, MI On Thursday, April 3, Indiana-based Beacon Health Systems announced it reached a definitive agreement to purchase Ascension Borgess Kalamazoo and three other Southwest Michigan Ascension hospitals. In addition to the 422-bed hospital in Kalamazoo, Beacon is acquiring: Ascension Borgess Allegan Hospital Ascension Borgess-Lee Hospital in Dowagiac Ascension Borgess-Pipp Hospital in Plainwell As part of the deal, the health care system will also obtain 35 outpatient clinics and an ambulatory surgery center. READ MORE: Ascension Borgess Kalamazoo, 3 other hospitals to be sold to Indiana-based health system Here are five things to know about the pending sale: 1. From one nonprofit system to another. Ascension is a nonprofit health provider and so is Beacon Health. Rooted in Catholicism, Ascensions mission is one of delivering compassionate, personalized care to all with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable. While not Catholic, Beacons mission is a similar one. Its mission is to serve as the majority provider for underinsured and uninsured patients. Doing so furthers the providers commitment to community health and well-being, the company says on its website. 2. Community-driven local governance. Beacon Health was established in 2011 as the result of a merger between Memorial Hospital of South Bend and Elkhart General Hospital. Driving the merger was two hospital boards that believed in the importance of local delivery of service, local governance and local leadership, said Beacon CEO Kreg Gruber. As the company has grown, organically and opportunistically, it has done so with an emphasis on local leadership, he said. Each community hospital has its own subsidiary board of 10 to 12 people. Additionally, theres an overarching health system board, which presently features 14 members representing each of the communities that Beacon has hospitals in. 3. Who approached who? Ascension approached Beacon last fall about purchasing the four hospitals and 35 outpatient clinics, Gruber said. They expressed that they liked our philosophy and they thought (we) made a lot of sense for those communities, he said. So, we ended up going through a due diligence phase over the first part of the year, so we could get a better understanding of what those needs were and could we meet those needs. After going through that, Gruber said, they felt they could make a positive difference in each of the Southwest Michigan communities. Its exciting for us, he said. We always love a good opportunity and love to contribute to a communitys health care and see what we can do to enhance it and make it better. 4. No more Ascension in Michigan. Once the sale goes final, there will be no Ascension hospitals left in Michigan. In October 2023, Ascension Michigan entered into a joint venture with Henry Ford Health, leading to Henry Ford taking over Ascensions eight Southeast Michigan hospitals. In August 2024, Ascension hospitals in Tawas, Standish and two in Saginaw County officially became part of MyMichigan Health. The remaining four Ascension hospitals in the state in Kalamazoo, Allegan, Dowagiac and Plainwell are all part of the Beacon deal. Each will be branded with the Beacon Health name once the sale goes final, said Heidi Prescott, Beacon spokesperson. 5. What is known about the sale? The sale is not closed yet. The two sides have entered into what is known as a definitive agreement. Before the sale is completed, it must be approved by the state attorneys general in Michigan and Indiana. The anticipation is approvals will take place, allowing the two sides to complete the sale this summer, Gruber said. The purchase price is not being disclosed at this time. Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter. KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI -- Otsego Public Schools is asking voters to approve a $46.5 million bond in the upcoming Tuesday, May 6 election. The bond would be a continuation of the tax rate from a $22.9 million bond passed in 2020. It wouldnt result in a net tax increase for residents, because it would replace existing mills that are expiring. Forward Corporation, a fifth-generation family-owned business, is proud to celebrate its 100-year anniversary with a year-long series of events. Graphic provided by Nicole McKay STANDISH, MI A Michigan convenience store headquartered in the northern part of the state but with locations all over the mitten is celebrating 100 years of doing business. Standish-based Forward Corp. is celebrating its milestone anniversary with a slate of community giveback events across Michigan, the fifth-generation family-owned business announced this month in a news release. We have always believed in the power of community, Forward Corp. President Abby Moniz said in a statement. As we celebrate 100 years, we want to make a meaningful impact on the towns that have been part of our journey. As part of the milestone celebration, Forward Convenience Stores are launching a special Giving Pump initiative to benefit local schools, along with a series of in-store giveaways and customer appreciation events throughout 2025, according to the release. Beginning in April and running through September, Forward Convenience Stores will host a Giving Pump event at select locations. A portion of monthly fuel sales will be donated to the local school district where the event takes place. In addition to the Giving Pump initiative, Forward Convenience Stores are celebrating monthly customer appreciation events at select stores featuring food and drink tastings, prize giveaways and more. We wouldnt be here without the support of our customers, employees, and local communities, Moniz said. For more information about when events and giveaways are happening, visit the Forward Convenience Stores Facebook page. Want more Bay City- and Saginaw-area news? Bookmark the local Bay City and Saginaw news page or sign up for the free 3@3 daily newsletter for Bay City and Saginaw. Want to subscribe to our Hello, Bay City newsletter? Sign up for free here. SAGINAW, MI Letisha Randle, a Saginaw-based businesswoman and founder of PRH Group, is being recognized for her impact on the regions business landscape and her commitment to workforce development. Officials with Central Michigan University Research Corp. (CMURC), announced Randle has been named Entrepreneur of the Year by their organization. Randle has launched multiple ventures, including PRH Group a growing electrical construction company that now employs 65 full-time and part-time workers. In 2024, the company secured five major utility contracts while expanding opportunities for underrepresented individuals in the skilled trades. Our mission extends beyond business success; we are committed to leaving a lasting legacy that empowers future entrepreneurs, fosters innovation, and promotes leadership in industries where representation is needed most, Randle, CEO of PRH Group, said in a statement. Under Randles leadership, PRH has built a reputation as a trusted name in the electrical construction field, while also offering mentorship and career training. The companys growth has made a tangible contribution to economic development in the region, said CMURC CEO Erin Strang. Letisha and her team at PRH exemplify the kind of entrepreneurial spirit that we need to drive economic growth and community development, Strang said in a statement. Beyond her work at PRH, she is a true catalyst in creating an entrepreneurial and innovative culture in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Listen to Entrepreneur Like Me podcast featuring Letisha Randle by clicking here. In addition to PRH Group, Randle has founded and co-owns several other ventures, including L&V Properties, Bloom & Blaze, HR Properties and the local franchise I Heart Mac and Cheese. Randle will be formally recognized at CMURCs Impact Day on Wednesday, April 9, at CMURCs Mount Pleasant location, 2625 Denison Drive. CMURC has locations throughout the region including Bay City, Saginaw and Midland. Impact Day runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is open to the public. The event, presented by Lake Trust Credit Union, features expert-led panels, free coworking, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals across the region. Randles award will be presented during a morning networking breakfast. For more information about PRH Group, visit prhgrp.com. Details about coworking opportunities and CMURCs entrepreneurial programs can be found at cmurc.com. Want more Bay City- and Saginaw-area news? Bookmark the local Bay City and Saginaw news page or sign up for the free 3@3 daily newsletter for Bay City and Saginaw. MICHIGAN Michigan will host several protests against President Donald Trump and his senior adviser Elon Musk as part of national Hands Off rallies on what is being called a National Day of Action. Hands Off protests are currently scheduled for Saturday, April 5, at more than 50 locations across the state, including more than 30 in the Metro Detroit region and even a handful in the Upper Peninsula. Protests include: Hands Off! Ann Arbor Fights Back: Jackson Avenue and North Maple Road from 4:15-5:30 p.m. Hands Off! Washtenaw County Fights Back: Learning Resource Center, 4135 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor, from 1-4 p.m. Hands Off! Indivisible of Greater Grand Rapids: Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St. NW, in downtown from noon to 3 p.m. Hands Off! Indivisible of Greater Kalamazoo Fights Back: 6330 S. Westnedge, Portage, from 12-2 p.m. Hands Off! West Michigan Fights Back: 350 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, from 3-5 p.m. Hands Off! Mid Michigan Indivisible Chesaning March : Cole Park, 275 Canal St., Chesaning, 1-2 p.m. Hands Off! Midland Fights Back with Women of Michigan Action Network (WOMAN): Midland County Veterans Memorial, 301 W. Main St., Midland, from 12-2 p.m. Find a full list of protests in Michigan here. This is a nationwide mobilization to stop the most brazen power grab in modern history, reads a description of the movement on its website. Trump, Musk, and their billionaire cronies are orchestrating an all-out assault on our government, our economy, and our basic rightsenabled by Congress every step of the way. They want to strip America for partsshuttering Social Security offices, firing essential workers, eliminating consumer protections, and gutting Medicaidall to bankroll their billionaire tax scam, the description continues. Theyre handing over our tax dollars, our public services, and our democracy to the ultra-rich. If we dont fight now, there wont be anything left to save. More than 1,000 events are scheduled across the United States and Mexico, according to the website. The Trump and Musk partnership has resulted in numerous federal cuts that have had a wide effect across the nation, including in Michigan. Musk leads the Trump administrations Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which was created through an executive order signed by Trump shortly after he was inaugurated. DOGE was tasked with modernizing federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and productivity. Since it was established, the agency has slashed the budgets and workforces of numerous government agencies. DOGE has also canceled contracts and leases for agencies all over the U.S. Offices in Michigan have been closed, while grants have also been pulled as a result of DOGEs efforts. Canada bought digital billboard ads in 12 states, including Michigan. This one is flashing an anti-tariff message in Kennedy Township, Pa. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) AP Black and white billboards that popped up throughout Michigan have a simple message: Tariffs are a tax. Paid for by the Canadian government, the billboards have been placed on key highways in 12 states and Washington D.C. in response to an escalating trade war with the United States. John Babcock, spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada, said the digital billboards are part of Canadas educational campaign to inform Americans about the economic impacts of tariffs taxes on imported goods. Tariffs are a tax on hard-working Americans in their daily lives. They lead to increased costs on everyday essentials, including fuel and groceries, Babcock said in a statement. Related: Michigan lawmakers warn of higher costs after Trump announces reciprocal tariffs The Canadian government launched the campaign after President Donald Trump threatened in February to implement a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico. It was imposed in mid-March. This was followed by another 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports and a 25% tariff on imported cars. Canada responded with its own series of retaliatory tariffs on American goods, steel, aluminum and vehicles. The global economy is fundamentally different today than yesterday. We must respond with purpose and force and take every step to protect Canadian workers and businesses against the unjust tariffs imposed by the United States, including on automobiles, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said in an April 3 statement. Canada was spared from the sweeping tariffs Trump unveiled this week on what he called Liberation Day against more than 100 trading partners as well as a 10% baseline tariff. Trump said these new levies will usher in a golden age for America. Jobs and factories will come roaring back into our country, and you see it happening already. We will supercharge our domestic industrial base. We will pry open foreign markets and break down foreign trade barriers, he said. Related: Trump launches tariffs, saying global trade has looted, pillaged, raped, plundered US economy But experts warn the broad measures could lead to a recession, and the financial markets already took a hit this week following Trumps Liberation Day announcement and retaliatory tariffs from China on Friday. The latest round of auto tariffs has also led to layoffs at Michigan and Indiana Stellantis plants. Trump has justified the tariffs against Canada and Mexico key U.S. trading partners in part because they have allowed fentanyl to come into our country at levels never seen before in addition to concerns about illegal border crossings. Thats despite the fact that only a fraction of fentanyl entering the United States comes across the northern border. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials seized 43 pounds of fentanyl at the northern border last year compared to 21,000 pounds at the southern border. U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, introduced a resolution to halt the tariffs, saying Canada is not the enemy while speaking on the Senate floor Wednesday, April 2. There is a fentanyl emergency, but its not Canada, he said. Its not an emergency from Canada, and its certainly not an emergency that would justify treating Canadian products with exactly the same tariff that we would levy on products from Mexico and from China. The U.S. Senate passed the resolution Wednesday by a 51-48 vote as four Republicans joined Democrats in rebuking the Trump administrations trade war. Its unlikely the resolution will be passed by a Republican-controlled House of Representatives. As I have always warned, tariffs are bad policy, and trade wars with our partners hurt working people most, said former Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell, who voted in favor of the resolution, in a post on X. The Canadian governments billboard campaign was rolled out before the Senate vote in primarily red states: Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Its unclear how many billboards Canada purchased, but they have been spotted in metro Detroit, and Lamar Advertising confirmed they were placed in West Michigan. The anti-tariff messages have also popped up in bus ads in Washington D.C. and on social media. The purpose is to increase the understanding of the American public and to counter misinformation, Babcock said. TNUSRB SI Recruitment 2025: Apply here for 1,299 Sub-Inspector vacancies from April 7; eligibility, selection process and important dates here Saurav Pandey is the Deputy Manager of Content at Moneycontrol, specialising in content strategy, execution and performance analysis. He integrates advanced SEO techniques to deliver high-impact, data-driven content formats. His expertise spans various beats, including education, career, science and others, where he adopts a technical approach to optimise visibility, improve search rankings, and drive organic traffic growth. He can be reached out at Saurav.Pandey@nw18.com. Saurav Pandey USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept By Alimat Aliyeva The authorities of the United Kingdom, Poland, and several Nordic countries are in talks about creating a joint fund to finance defense needs, Azernews reports. This was reported to the European edition of Politico by two European diplomats and an official. According to them, the main objective is to collectively purchase weapons at a lower cost and create opportunities for securing favorable loans for defense spending. European diplomats confirmed that last week, British officials discussed this idea with representatives of the financial authorities from Sweden, Finland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Poland. The discussions are expected to continue during the upcoming meeting of EU finance ministers in Warsaw next week. Politico reports that the initiative may be open to European countries with low public debt and a willingness to allocate significant amounts of money toward military spending. This, however, excludes most Southern European countries, including France, Italy, and Spain. The proposal to create a joint defense fund comes at a time when Europe is increasingly focused on strengthening its military capabilities, particularly in light of rising security threats and the ongoing war in Ukraine. By pooling resources and collaborating on defense procurement, the countries involved aim to enhance their collective military readiness while benefiting from economies of scale, potentially lowering the cost of advanced weaponry. This initiative could be seen as a step toward greater European defense integration, complementing existing structures such as the European Defence Fund (EDF) and NATO. It also reflects a broader push for European countries to assume more responsibility for their own defense, reducing reliance on external powers, particularly the United States. The focus on countries with low public debt highlights the financial constraints faced by many European nations, especially those in the southern part of the continent, which are dealing with economic challenges. However, this raises the question of how such a fund might be perceived by European nations with higher levels of debt or those more reliant on social spending. Ultimately, the success of this initiative will depend on the ability to build consensus among European countries on defense priorities and the sharing of resources. If successful, it could pave the way for a more unified and self-sufficient European defense policy. Hansika Motwani moves HC to quash criminal case filed by her sister-in-law Muskan, claims a loan return of Rs 27 lakhs Gayatri Rani USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. 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I Accept Squid Games O Yeong-su sentenced to prison for sexual assault allegations, says "My 80 years of life have collapsed in an instant..." Palak Vij USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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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 Was extremely unhappy after Flipkart exit; Paytm's Vijay calls me the unhappiest billionaire: Sachin Bansal Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Arun Padmanabhan 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. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 14 years. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Danish Khan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Namrata Agarwal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech newsstay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Aabhas Sharma USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. 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I Accept Downturn in India-Canada relations result of licence given to extremist elements: MEA 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Trump administration moves to block $510 million in federal funding to Brown University over campus antisemitism concerns Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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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 "You cannot annex another country": Danish PM warns US during Greenland visit 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Senator Marie Alvarado Gil View Photo Sonora, CA A Mother Lode State Senators bill jumps over one legislative hurdle after being unanimously passed out of the Senate Health Committee today. Republican Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil says SB 223 is a reintroduction of another wildfire bill, SB 945, which was introduced last year in a package of bills. It would have measured the health impacts of wildfire smoke to protect firefighters and agricultural workers from its health impacts, but was killed by Democrats after she switched political parties, as reported here. The Wildfire Smoke and Health Outcomes Data Act (SB 223) would establish a statewide database to track the health impacts of wildfire smoke. Reintroducing SB 223 is my commitment to making sure we as legislators have the data we need to address the health impacts of wildfire smoke and strengthen our approach to wildfire policy, stated Alvarado-Gil. According to the California Council of Science and Technology (CCST), California policymakers presently lack the data necessary to assess whether investments in wildfire risk reduction and forest health are benefiting health outcomes for smoke-impacted communities. Addressing this issue is long overdue. Wildfires are a fact of life for all Californians, but the recent Southern California fires made it abundantly clear that we need to understand how wildfire smoke affects our health, said Senator Alvarado-Gil. We need accurate data to protect our firefighters, agricultural workers, ranchers, and rural communities. This bill is a critical step toward making informed decisions around forest management and public health. Alvarado-Gil provided these state requirements for SB 223 that would do the following: Regularly update data products tracking air pollution concentrations from wildfire smoke, population exposure, and cases of adverse health outcomes related to smoke. Expand available smoke data products to include estimates of smoke impacts by individual wildfires. Tracking smoke impacts back to source fires is foundational data for research on the potential human health benefits of alternative forest management strategies. Support efforts to create methodological guidelines for estimating smoke air pollutant concentrations and counts of adverse health impacts attributable to wildfire smoke in order to facilitate future research efforts. Support the development of methodologies to estimate smoke emissions from human-made materials, and should expand smoke emissions inventories to additionally include emissions estimates from developed landscapes that are burned by wildfires. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has abruptly terminated the tenure of Sithembiso Nyoni as Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, effective immediately. The dismissal, delivered without any official explanation, has shaken political circles, raising questions about the future of Zimbabwes environmental policies and the Presidents broader strategic objectives. Nyoni, a veteran politician aged 75, had been a fixture in the cabinet since 2002, holding various ministerial portfolios. Prior to her appointment as Environment Minister in March last year, she served as Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Minister for Women and Youth Affairs, and Minister of Industry and Commerce, among others. Her long service made her one of the most experienced members of the government. The official announcement of Nyonis removal came via a letter from Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Martin Rushwaya. The letter stated that His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe Cde Dr E D Mnangagwa, has in terms of section 340, subsection (1), paragraph (f), as read with section 108, subsection (1) paragraph (a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, removed Sithembiso Gile Gladys Nyoni from the position of Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife with immediate effect. While President Mnangagwa has remained silent on the reasons for Nyonis dismissal, speculation is rife. Some political analysts suggest that the move is part of a wider series of strategic appointments designed to consolidate the Presidents power and potentially pave the way for an extension of his term beyond the constitutional limit of 2028. However, Mnangagwa has publicly dismissed any intention of remaining in power beyond his current term. Government sources, speaking anonymously, have hinted at the possibility of factional battles within the ruling Zanu-PF party as a contributing factor. These sources suggest that tensions between allies of President Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga may be playing a role in the recent cabinet reshuffle, although this remains unconfirmed. Nyonis dismissal comes at a particularly sensitive time for Zimbabwes environmental sector. The country faces significant climate challenges, and the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife plays a crucial role in addressing these issues. The Presidents office has not yet announced Nyonis replacement, leaving uncertainty about the future direction of the nations environmental policy. Adding to the complexity, Nyonis time as Environment Minister was marked by several controversies. One notable incident involved a clash between the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), which fell under her purview, and the Ministry of Mines and mining development. The dispute arose after the Ministry of Mines granted a Chinese mining company, Sunny Yi Feng (Private) Limited, an exclusive coal prospecting licence within the Hwange National Park. ZimParks strongly opposed the decision, arguing that the proposed mining project targeted the Sinamatella Black Rhino Intensive Protection Zone, a critical habitat for the endangered black rhino species. ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo issued a statement expressing grave concerns about the potential impact on the rhino population. Needless to mention that the proposed mining project will actually increase the risk of species extinction and prospects of population recovery will be negatively affected, Farawo said. He further warned that approving mining in this zone would not only contradict ZimParks conservation mandate but also tarnish Zimbabwes reputation regionally and internationally as a world leader in sustainable conservation. Farawo also highlighted the broader environmental implications of the mining project, stating that the proposed mining project poses a significant threat, worsening the degradation of land, a critical concern for ZimParks, which has a mandate to ensure that at least 30% of degraded terrestrial, inland water and ecosystems are restored by 2030. Hwange residents have also voiced similar concerns, fearing the impact on the parks ecosystem and the local tourism industry. Another incident that occurred during Nyonis tenure involved a Chinese company that allegedly duped the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) which also reports to the Ministry of Environment. The company, called Friends of the Environment, entered into a partnership with EMA to close open pits left by artisanal miners in the Umzingwane River. However, it was later discovered that the company was engaging in riverbed mining under the guise of environmental rehabilitation. Tafadzwa Muguti, the secretary for presidential affairs and devolution in the presidents office, revealed the details of the incident during a visit to the catchment areas of major dams in Matabeleland South. He stated that We had a Chinese company here, Friends of the Environment, who partnered with EMA and the province later found out that by day they were closing the pits in the name of Friends of the Environment and by night they were mining. Muguti further explained that the companys activities had caused significant damage to a bridge at the confluence of the Umzingwane and Inyankuni rivers, contributing to poor inflows into major dams that supply Bulawayo with water. They destroyed a whole bridge while looking for gold, Muguti said, adding that this is almost a 150-meter bridge which was destroyed completely in the name of mining. This is Umzingwane River, it supplies water to Bulawayo and the collapse of this bridge is causing water challenges as the water has stopped flowing. EMA terminated the partnership with Friends of the Environment, but it remains unclear whether any individuals were prosecuted for their involvement in the alleged deception. The incident has highlighted the challenges of regulating mining activities and protecting the environment in Zimbabwe. Nyonis career has spanned both the non-governmental and governmental sectors. Before joining the government, she founded the Organisation of Rural Associations for Progress (ORAP) in 1981 and remains its president. ORAP is a non-governmental organisation that focuses on rural development and empowerment. The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife is a crucial government body responsible for environmental management, climate change mitigation, and wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe. The Ministry oversees several key agencies, including the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, the Environmental Management Agency, the Forestry Commission, and the Meteorological Services Department of Zimbabwe. Breaking News via Email Related Pin Share Share 0 Shares Harare A 40-year-old man from Masvingo is the latest victim to fall prey to robbers operating within unregistered mushikashika taxis in Harare. Luckmore Mudzamiri lost US$2,300 after boarding what he thought was a legitimate taxi on Wednesday, highlighting the growing dangers associated with this unregulated mode of transport. This incident mirrors a similar case from December last year, where a police officer was robbed of cash and his service ID cards after boarding a mushikashika in the capital. The incident took place at the Simon Muzenda Street commuter rank, where Mudzamiri boarded a silver Toyota Aqua intending to travel to his brothers house in Ruwa. Unbeknownst to him, four occupants were already in the vehicle, and he was seated in the back between two of the robbers. As the vehicle approached an intersection near Eastlea, the situation turned menacing. One of the robbers produced a screwdriver, while the other held a knife to Mudzamiris neck, demanding that he surrender his belongings. Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the case. Police are investigating an armed robbery case involving a Mushikashika vehicle, said Insp Chakanza. The accused persons forced the complainant to surrender his belongings, satchel containing toiletries, defensive certificate, national ID, two Itel cellphones and US$2 160. The accused persons later dumped the complainant along Hillside Extension near and drove off. Total value stolen is US$2300, said Insp Chakanza. This incident echoes a similar case from December last year, highlighting the vulnerability of passengers using mushikashika taxis. Assistant Inspector Dickson Mashada, a 42-year-old police officer, lost his service identity cards and cash after boarding a mushikashika in Harare. Mashada boarded a mushikashika which had two female passengers and a male passenger from the Harare CBD to Newlands. He lost US$420 on his way to Mukushi Depot, formerly known as Morris Depot. Upon reaching Harare Central Remand Prison, one of the female passengers grabbed him by the neck while the other produced a knife and ordered him to surrender his wallet. The female passenger searched him and took away his wallet containing his police ID card, National ID card, bank cards and cash. The robbers dumped Asst-Insp Mashada opposite Kebab Centre and drove away towards Newlands Shopping Centre at around 7pm. These incidents are not isolated. Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, Harare provincial police spokesperson, also confirmed another case where Vimbai Mufungi, 28, lost a total of US$920 to two men while waiting for transport in Hopley. Police are investigating robbery cases involving knives where two passengers lost their money and valuables, said Insp Chakanza. In one of the cases, two men who were holding knives attacked a woman and grabbed her handbag. They stole an Iphone cellphone, an Itel cellphone, national ID, medical aid cards, power bank and keys which were in the handbag and fled the scene, he said. The rise of mushikashika taxis has been a gradual but significant shift in Zimbabwes urban transport landscape. In Kadoma, once known for its bustling commuter omnibuses, unregistered pirate taxis have risen to dominate the streets. The popular Honda Fit model has replaced the once-reliable omnibuses, shifting the local transportation landscape and raising questions about the future of commuting in the city, also known as the City of Gold. Residents, particularly those who rely on public transport to commute to work or run daily errands, have found themselves increasingly using these unlicensed taxis. From the streets of the town to the more remote mining areas like Rio Tinto and Chakari, mushikashika vehicles are now ubiquitous, frequently seen darting in and out of the towns busy routes, often at breakneck speeds. In the heart of Kadoma, commuters like Sekai Nyamadzawo, a resident who works in a local shop, expressed a mix of frustration and acceptance of the change. It is hard to find a seat in a commuter bus anymore, she said. The mushikashika cars are everywhere now and people have no choice but to use them. The mushikashika cars are also convenient because they are quicker and take more flexible routes compared to the regular buses. On the flip side, other residents like Tawanda Chiremba, who works at a local mine in the Ngezi area had mixed feelings. The mushikashika taxis are faster, yes, but they are also more expensive, he said. And they drive so fast. I do not feel safe sometimes. We are paying more for less comfort and for a riskier ride. Local authorities, including Kadoma City Council, have been locked in a long-standing battle with illegal transport operators. Despite several attempts to clamp down on these unregistered taxis including regular roadblocks and fines, the mushikashika taxis continue to flourish with little sign of the problem abating. The mushikashika menace is a serious issue, said a council official in charge of transport. We have had multiple meetings with transport operators, yet the mushrooming of these illegal taxis remains out of control. They are not only flouting regulations but also endangering the safety of our residents. The shortage of licensed commuter omnibuses and the high demand for quick transportation have left many with few options but to embrace the pirate taxis. For the drivers of the mushikashika taxis, however, it is about survival. Many of these operators argued that the harsh economic realities have forced them into the business. I used to drive a registered kombi but the economic situation became unbearable. There was no way to make a living, said Godfrey Moyo, a mushikashika driver plying the Town to Rimuka route. These small cars are quicker and more efficient. I make more money driving the mushikashika taxis than I ever did with the kombis. Besides, it is the people who want this service. They prefer it because it gets them to their destinations faster. Moyo, like many other mushikashika operators, has no license or registration for his vehicle, but he insisted that his passengers understand the trade-off between convenience and risk. People are happy as long as they get where they need to go. I do not know how the council expects us to operate legally when they are not offering any alternatives, he said. The surge in mushikashika taxis has also had economic ripple effects. Local businesses that once relied on commuters using regular buses now see a change in foot traffic. Many businesses, particularly those in the transportation sector such as fuel stations and car maintenance shops are feeling the effects as the dominant role of mushikashika taxis grows. For those who depended on licensed omnibuses for work, the loss of reliable transport is a source of frustration and instability. Despite the growing concerns, council remains adamant that the illegal transport operators must be dealt with, although the likelihood of an immediate solution seems slim. With the rise of the mushikashika taxis, it seems the City of Gold has found itself at a crossroadsone between economic survival and the regulation of public transport. As Kadoma adapts to this new era of transportation, the future remains uncertain. While commuters may have embraced the convenience of the mushikashika, the authorities face a continual struggle to bring order to the citys chaotic transport system. For now, the mushikashika taxis have taken over, but whether the city can reclaim its streets remains to be seen. As the City of Gold evolves, it seems that the mushikashika may have become an indispensable, albeit controversial, part of the fabric of Kadomas daily life. Whether they will stay or be driven off the streets by the authorities, only time will tell. Breaking News via Email Related Pin Share Share 0 Shares Harare The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is intensifying its search for Knox Chiwero, the alleged administrator of a WhatsApp group named Nyokayemabhunu, which authorities claim was instrumental in planning the March 31 protests spearheaded by activist Blessed Geza. This comes as the fallout from the demonstrations continues, with 107 suspects already apprehended nationwide. Investigators say they managed to infiltrate the encrypted chat group, uncovering a series of messages that allegedly plotted the unrest. The group, code-named Nyokayemabhunu, allegedly coordinated chaosincluding stoning police, barricading roads with burning tyres, and chanting anti-government slogans. The groups alleged ringleader, Knox Chiwero, operated it using a South African-registered number, raising suspicions of cross-border involvement. Authorities are now pursuing him and other key figures. The suspected mastermind, Chiwero, reportedly ran the group using a South African-registered number, raising red flags about possible cross-border coordination. Law enforcement is now on the trail of Chiwero and other key players behind what they are calling coordinated criminal acts. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi commented on the ongoing operation, stating that more suspects have been identified through messages shared within the WhatsApp group. Some of the suspects have since been identified through WhatsApp groups which they were using to send messages and in Masvingo we have identified two more suspects. Social media was being used to coordinate these criminal acts, he said. We are casting the net wide to identify these initiators of criminal acts and they were also threatening people in their communities using social media, Comm Nyathi added. Police confirmed the arrest of 107 suspects nationwide in connection with the unauthorised demonstrations. The bulk of the arrests94 individualswere made at Robert Gabriel Mugabe Square in Harare, where protesters reportedly gathered around 9:20 AM on March 31. This week, Prosecutor Mr Anesu Chirenje told the court that the group gathered at Robert Mugabe Square around 9:20 am on March 31 as part of a broader plan to cause disruption. Some individuals reportedly recorded videos and took photographs of the protest, which were later shared on social media to incite further unrest. Police arrested 94 suspects at the scene, while others were apprehended at their residence after being identified in online footage. Written submissions from the State and defence teams are expected to be heard starting Tuesday, with the bail ruling scheduled for April 10. Comm Nyathi said on Monday, police recorded a few reports of violence and malicious property damage. The Police arrested 107 suspects throughout the country for participating in violent and unsanctioned demonstrations. Most of these arrests were made at Robert Gabriel Mugabe Square in Harare. The public is urged to remain vigilant and disregard social media calls to engage in violent acts or hoodwinked into join unlawful gatherings targeted at looting and other criminal acts. The law will certainly take its course on unruly elements who commit criminal acts under the guise of demonstrations, Comm Nyathi said. Meanwhile, authorities are also appealing for information regarding Wellington Jeremiah Masiwa, also known as Nyokayemabhunu (42), from Chigwada Village, Chief Negomo, Mazowe. ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said that in June 2024, Nyokayemabhunu misrepresented to the complainant that he was in partnership with several foreign investors and could facilitate the expansion of the complainants mining business. Added Nyathi: Acting upon the misrepresentation, the complainant paid USD $ 60,000.00 for the procurement of two tipper trucks. The complainant made several fruitless follow-ups on the trucks, and the suspect became evasive, prompting the complainant to file a police report. Nyathi is urging members of the public with information about the suspects whereabouts to contact the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, WhatsApp 0712 800197, or report to the nearest police station. Recently, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) condemned cyberbullying and warned those perpetrating it that they risk being prosecuted. Cyberbullying is a malicious act that involves sending or posting harmful, intimidating, or humiliating messages or information on social media platforms, private chats, or other digital forums. Under Section 4 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act (Chapter 9:23), anyone convicted of cyberbullying may face a fine or imprisonment for up to 10 years or both a fine and imprisonment. Comm Nyathi said the law will certainly take its course on unruly elements who commit criminal acts under the guise of demonstrations. He said police will continue to deploy officers in strategic positions to thwart any criminal activities. The Zimbabwe Republic Police applauds the public for maintaining law and order during the recent attempts by some individuals and groups to incite violence and engage in criminal acts in the country on 31 March 2025. The situation in the country remains peaceful and conducive for all socio-economic activities. The police will continue to deploy officers in strategic positions in support of the current serene environment, he said. Another four Chitungwiza men also appeared in court for allegedly carrying out a series of vehicle arson attacks at business premises in Avondale, Highlands, Newlands and Goromonzi on Friday last week. Last Matarutse (40), Abel Jobe (47), Kizito Chinhanga (40) and Thomas Chanetsa (45) were charged with malicious damage to property when they appeared separately before Harare magistrate, Ms Marehwanazvo Gofa. The court remanded them in custody to April 14, advising them to apply for bail at the High Court. Breaking News via Email Related Pin Share Share 0 Shares Part the First: The Powell Memo started it all. Written by Lewis Powell, then a Richmond corporate lawyer for Big Tobacco and later Supreme Court Justice, for the United States Chamber of Commerce, the Powell Memo set out how to take America back from the hippies and the freaks, Mario Savio, Abbie Hoffman, Tom Hayden, Charles Reich, the Smothers Brothers, and Ralph Nader included. The Heritage Foundation is one of many busy children of the Powell Memo (i.e., Attack on American Free Enterprise System), and its Project 2025 has motivated the current President, through his minions, to fire government scientists willy nilly, terminate grants because their keywords are now politically incorrect (sex, climate, ecology, fossil fuel, disparities) and cancel long-term projects like the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study (so much for the importance of chronic disease to the current Secretary of Health and Human Services) because it has been run by Columbia University for the past several years. Nature covers the story here: The Heritage Foundationreleased Project 2025, a policy guidebook and staffing list, in April 2023, as a blueprint for what it hoped would be a second Trump presidency. Trump, however, disavowed the initiative during his 2024 presidential campaign, saying that he had no knowledge of it, after there was public backlash over the publications sweeping Republican policy proposals, such as banning abortion, overhauling the federal government and slashing funding for climate science. But Trump and his administration have closely hewed to Project 2025s agenda, detailed in a sprawling, 922-page book, passing executive orders to defund climate initiatives and target diversity programmes. The Wall Street Journal found that more than half of Trumps executive orders (EOs) align with Project 2025 recommendations. And most of its 40 listed authors are now key figures on Trumps team. Does the President know he is following Project 2025? Asking for a friend. Part the Second: Sometimes whistling silently past the graveyard during election season does not work. One of Trumps defenestrated is Dr. Peter Marks, who was longtime Director the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research at FDA. As the title puts it: Ouster of FDAs Peter Marks alarms a biopharma industry that saw him as an ally. Yes, I would imagine it does, even if Dr. Marks saw himself as something other than an ally of Big Pharma and Little Pharma: When Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime and visceral critic of pharmaceutical and biotech companies, was nominated by President Trump to be the nations health secretary, the head of biotechs largest trade group issued a statement saying that he had every confidence that the industry would continue to thrive and deliver on its goals, and looked forward to working closely with the new administration. Three months later, in February, when the National Institutes of Health announced plans to slash indirect cost payments to universities and other institutions that have received federal grants, the trade group, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, issued no response, even though the work of those universities and other institutions is a critical driver of new drugs and other medical products. On Saturday, one day after news that the Food and Drug Administrations top vaccine regulator had been forced out of his post by Kennedy, who has since been confirmed by the Senate as health secretary, BIO CEO John Crowley released a statement saying that the group was deeply concerned that the loss of experienced leadership at the FDA will erode scientific standards and broadly impact the development of new, transformative therapies to fight diseases for the American people. The historical contexts are incommensurable, but does no one remember Martin Niemoller or even Winston Churchill. What goes around, comes around. With a vengeance. The foundation of Big Pharma is research supported by the National Institutes of Health and similar organizations. Without a functional, even somewhat pliable FDA at times, nothing good from Big Pharma will ever get approved. And that is the end of that story. Things not so good getting approved? A good bet. The text of Peter Markss resignation letter is here. It is one of the more remarkable documents of its kind, especially on MMR: The ongoing multistate measles outbreak that is particularly severe in Texas reminds us of what happens when confidence in well-established science underlying public health and well-being is undermined. Measles, which killed more than 100,000 unvaccinated children last year in Africa andhad been eliminated from our shores. The two-dose measles, mumps, rubella vaccine regimen (MMR) using over the past decades has a remarkably favorable benefit-risk profile. The MMR vaccine is 97% or more effective in preventing measles following the two-dose series, and its safety has been remarkably well studied. Though rarely followed by a single fever-related seizure, or very rarely by allergic reactions or blood clotting disorders, the vaccine very simply does not cause autism, nor is it associated with encephalitis or death. It does, however, protect against a potential devasting consequence of prior measles infection, subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), which is an untreatable, relentlessly progressive neurologic disorder leading to death in about 1 in 10,000 individuals infected with measles. Undermining confidence in well-established vaccines that have met the high standards for quality, safety, and effectiveness that have been in place for decades at FDA is irresponsible, detrimental to public health, and a clear danger to our nations health, safety, and security. As you are aware, I was willing to work to address the Secretarys concerns regarding vaccine safety and transparency by hearing from the public and implementing a variety of different public meetings and engagements with the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. However, it has become clear that truth and transparency are not desired by the Secretary, but rather he wishes subservient confirmation of his misinformation and lies. That will not leave a mark, alas. One does wonder what the new Director of FDA, Dr. Marty Makary, formerly of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, is thinking right now. Is he good with this? Did he have no influence with the Secretary? This will be revealed in due time. Im guessing he his on board with the destruction of American biomedical sciences, which will necessarily gut the nations first research university Johns Hopkins. Part the Third: Look to China for the next great things in biopharmaceuticals, therapeutic gene editing, and gene therapies. This attack on American science will have consequences, as foreshadowed by Chinese advances in CRISPR therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). As U.S. efforts stall, China pushes ahead with CRISPR treatments for muscular dystrophy: Two of the first efforts to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy with CRISPR gene editing are getting off the ground in China, even as projects in the U.S. have seemingly stalled. Trials for the fatal muscle-wasting disease were started in the last couple of months by two different Chinese companies. One, GenAssist, has already dosed one young boy. Huidagene, the other biotech, expects to dose the first of three boys soon and report data by Q1 next year. The efforts are notable, as scientists and advocates have long hoped CRISPR could unlock a more powerful treatment for Duchenne than the technology used in Elevidys, Sareptas much-debated gene therapy. The need for such a treatment only grew last October, when trial results confirmed that Elevidys, while potentially useful, is far from a cure. Would it be churlish to note that it has been ten years since Eric Olsen of University of Texas-Southwestern in Dallas showed that CRISPR could be used correct a genetic defect associated with DMD? And that this result was so promising that Vertex Pharmaceuticals bought his startup company, Exonics for $245M. Long live the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980! But in fairness to all, delivery of any DMD therapeutic is a very difficult proposition because skeletal muscle is a very large target to cover, and the agent must remain active for a long time. Liver is the much easier target for viral vectors. Stem cells in the bone marrow even easier, if more dangerous because for that transplant to take place the entire immune system must be obliterated first. Given current developments, it seems unlikely that US Science will remain up to the task. What exactly does Make America Great Again really mean? Which is not to say that the scientific establishment is above reproach, that the entire structure and mechanism is the best of all possible world. An incremental approach can improve American science across the board. But the slash-and-burn here is a solution to nothing, unless the goal is to destroy and rebuild from scratch. Which is not possible. From Links earlier this week: Xi Jinping is investing in Chinas science and technology research as Trump is gutting Americas research foundations. Part the Fourth. Driving while nonwhite is a thing (not that we didnt know this already). From ArsTechnica: Study of Lyft rideshare data confirms minorities get more tickets. First: The data showed one thing clearly: Lyft has incentives for its drivers to avoid traffic violations, and they work. Compared with the general population of motorists, our sample is less prone to speed, especially more than 10 mph over the limit, the team writes. As a result, our analysis examines only 1,423 citations for speeding. While lower than youd expect, thats more than enough to do some statistics on the frequency of these citations. Second: The results clearly reproduced a similar pattern to earlier research. Minority Lyft drivers were about 30 percent more likely to be pulled over and cited for speeding (the two analyses produced results of 24 and 33 percent). Once cited, they were also likely to receive higher fines, either 23 or 34 percent more than white drivers. Third: The remaining question was why the police could potentially be acting out of bias, or they could be attempting to deter minority drivers because they are more prone to problematic driving. So, the researchers compared the actual frequency of speeding based on the GPS data and used accidents as a proxy for problematic driving habits. Neither of these showed any significant differences between minorities and white drivers. Diversity causing inequity and inclusion with malice aforethought? Probably. The article is published in Science. Be sure to click on the Authors Info and Affiliations link on the landing page. More leading universities getting themselves in trouble, again? Part the Fifth. Slow Science could be the new Slow Food. From The Conversation, Reliable science takes time. But the current system rewards speed. Yes, it does. I will violate Horowitzs Law here, from my freshman sociology teacher: Never let you own necessarily limited personal experience lead you to generalize, too far. But slow science is exactly right. At its largest my laboratory had three PhD students who joined the lab in successive years, two high-level research coordinators with Masters degrees, and a gaggle of undergraduates. We published 3-4 papers in good journals in a good year. That was enough. The imperative to move fast means that you will inevitably break things, unintentionally or otherwise. Another personal anecdote. I was involved in a startup long ago as the person who actually knew how to do the protein chemistry necessary to produce the product. That is until one day I pushed back with the question, Why is there never enough time to do the experiment right but always enough time to do it over? Just as well. I was long gone when the crackup resulted in several ruined careers. From the article, much of this covered here before: Lately, there have been many headlines on scientific fraud and journal article retractions. If this trend continues, it represents a serious threat to public trust in science. One way to tackle this problem and ensure public trust in science remains high may be to slow it down. We sometimes refer to this philosophy as slow science. Akin to the slow food movement, slow science prioritises quality over speed and seeks to buck incentive structures that promote mass production. Slow science may not represent an obvious way to improve science because we often equate science with progress, and slowing down progress does not sound very appealing. However, progress is not just about speed, but about basing important societal decisions on strong scientific foundations. And this takes time. Unfortunately Much as with fast food, scientists are incentivised to produce as much science as possible in as little time as possible. This can mean cutting corners. We know, for instance, that larger samples lead to more trustworthy results because they are more likely to be representative of the relevant population. However, collecting large samples takes time and resources. Fast science is also associated with gaming the system. As a hypothetical example, an educational scientist might collect data to find evidence for their theory that a new teaching style promotes better learning. Then, they look at the data and realise the intervention did not quite improve learning. But if you squint at it, there might be a trend if you drop a couple of pesky outliers that didnt see a benefit. So, they do just that. Final anecdote based on the above. In my current life I have on occasion read the literature on medical education. Suffice to say that if these scholars were studying the molecular basis of genetics they would still be arguing whether proteins (complex) or DNA (ATGC in sequence, simple) are the genetic material. One thing I am proud of is that my primary professional home, The American Society for Cell Biology, led the way on DORA: Declaration on Research Assessment. Will things come around? One can only hope, without being particularly optimistic. Part the Sixth: Leading scientists make a point while missing the larger point. This Guardian article, More than 1,900 scientists write letter in SOS over Trumps attacks on science, is encouraging on the surface. The letter is here. For the most part it is forceful. The signers are truly a Whos Who of Science, many of them I know and admire. But in my view they make a critical error with this sentence: The quest for truth the mission of science requires that scientists freely explore new questions and report their findings honestly, independent of special interests. Yes, the mission of science requires scientists to freely explore new questions and report their findings honestly, independent of special interests. The problem is that too much of what the lay public sees as science is not independent of special interests, as the past five years have demonstrated. Moreover, the mission of science is not the quest for truth. The mission of science is to produce useful knowledge that leads to a deeper understanding of the natural world. Science is provisional, always. With truth, well that all depends. This view has been presented here previously in Our Loss of Science in the 21st Century and How to Get It Back, following the work of the philosopher Nancy Cartwright and her collaborators. The quest for truth has something for all of us, and it has different meanings to the artist and craftsman, scientist, historian, theologian, priest, professor, philosopher, and the farmer, machinist, electrician, and plumber. On the other hand, the quest for truth generally has little meaning for politicians and their acolytes, and their useful knowledge is entirely context dependent. Corey Robin has a somewhat different take on this as he compares the scientists letter with one from the Harvard Law School faculty. The question of truth, perhaps? Whose truth and for what? In any case, the best way to alienate your interlocutors is to declare that you are righteously searching for the truth, while implying the opposite for them. Corey Robin also asks Where is our tank man? So far, nowhere to be found. Part the Seventh: Snow leopards in the high mountains of Pakistan. A mother and three cubs. LiveScience is a bit cluttered for anyones taste other an internet ad sales rep but the animals are magnificent. See you next week. Rising odds asteroid that briefly threatened Earth will hit moon Phys.org Founder Klaus Schwab to step down as World Economic Forums chair Reuters Climate/Environment Pandemics The Koreas China? Syraqistan Israel killed 106 Palestinians today, including the bombing of a school where 30 children were killed & 100 wounded. On the other hand, always on the same day today, the US carried out 36 air attacks on Yemen in support of Israels crimes against humanity and war crimes in Gaza. Elijah J. Magnier (@ejmalrai) April 3, 2025 Zionisms Metamorphosis: From Liberal Facade to Shameless Fascism A thread 1/ Yoav Litvin (@nookyelur) April 3, 2025 *** Iran could agree to direct talks with U.S. if progress in indirect mediation Diplomatic, by Laura Rozen European Disunion New Not-So-Cold War Mr. Market Has A Sad Liberation Day Did an LLM help write Trumps trade plan? Marcus on AI This might be the first large-scale application of AI technology to geopolitics.. 4o, o3 high, Gemini 2.5 pro, Claude 3.7, Grok all give the same answer to the question on how to impose tariffs easily. pic.twitter.com/r1GGubcz8c rohit (@krishnanrohit) April 3, 2025 I wouldnt want to be the last country that tries to negotiate a trade deal with @realDonaldTrump. The first to negotiate will win the last will absolutely lose. I have seen this movie my entire life Eric Trump (@EricTrump) April 3, 2025 Lets Not be Laughed at Anymore: Donald Trump and Japan from the 1980s to the Present Journal of American-East Asian Relations. From 2018, still germane. Shock therapy on a civilizational scale: Shock therapy was premised on the idea that you need short-run pain to achieve long-run gain, but in most cases the valley of tears was followed by a rocky road, not the blooming landscapes once promised. Trumps trade blowout is shock therapy on a civilizational scale. Isabella M. Weber (@IsabellaMWeber) April 3, 2025 Whats wrong with tariffs Cory Doctorow, Pluralistic We got a War on Terror, mass incarceration, a Great Recession, and a student debt crisis instead Benjamin Balthaser (@BL_Balthaser) April 3, 2025 Trump 2.0 National Security Council staffers fired in wake of Trump meeting with Laura Loomer The Hill Youd think Elon out would be a Wiles coup but the same day she shows she cant keep Loomer out of the White House pic.twitter.com/f0kLGBcN7D Jordan Schneider (@jordanschnyc) April 3, 2025 DOGE Democrats en Deshabille Cory Booker broke a filibuster record with a 25-hour speech about moral courage and resisting fascism, then turned around and voted to arm a government committing genocide. pic.twitter.com/EySNDrNUbb Current Affairs (@curaffairs) April 3, 2025 SignalGate Watchdog to investigate Hegseths sharing of airstrike info on Signal Defense News Police State Watch Tesla Terrorism Intel Reports Stoke Contagion Ken Klippenstein Lets be clear: The only thing I have done is organize under constitutionally protected speech. I have not committed a crime. I have not engaged in anything unlawful. My advocacy is for Palestinian freedomyet a foreign-backed group thinks it can erase my citizenship over it. Nerdeen Kiswani (@NerdeenKiswani) April 3, 2025 Healthcare? AI Groves of Academe The Fascism Expert at Yale Whos Fleeing America Vanity Fair The romanticization of Canada by Stanley and so many others is laughable & detrimental. As a scholar of fascism, he should know that much of the roots of contemporary American fascist thought are intertwined with the far right movement in Canada which has become mainstream pic.twitter.com/FsJTfQR9Kg Sana Saeed (@SanaSaeed) April 2, 2025 Antitrust Our monopolized payments system is hindering 80% of small businesses, according to a Fed survey. Swipe fees, slow funds availability, data theft. Our banking system should be designed to facilitate commerce, not bleed it dry.https://t.co/PXZSIz1u0n Stacy Mitchell (@stacyfmitchell) April 3, 2025 Inside the secret fees grabbing millions a month from our MTA fares New York Post Screening Room Class Warfare UPDATE: The movement to ban algorithmic rent-fixing collusion between landlords continues to build momentum. Following a flurry of activity last week, were up to 19 states and 7 cities in various stages of this fight. pic.twitter.com/ESzfRJ1dum American Economic Liberties Project (@econliberties) April 1, 2025 Antidote du jour (via): See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. Yves here. We feel compelled to post regularly on the insurer grift known as Medicare Advantage, in light of the massive ad barrage around annual enrollment time. The fact that the insurers spend so much in marketing dollars on these campaigns shows how profitable this scheme is, contrasted with Traditional Medicare, which has no profit cut in its pricing and a very large, which means efficient, processing system. As readers likely know well, Medicare Advantage is effectively a degraded version of Medicare, with often lower or no premiums to patients whose value is more than offset by narrow networks (which includes difficult or no access to certain specialists) and pre-approval processes designed to impede or deny delivery of care. A reason for highlighting this post is to help debunk the claim that Medicare Advantage market share is growing because people like it. As you can see, many are forced onto these plans. On top of that, some otherwise have no choice but to take inferior Medicare Advantage plans because they cant afford the premiums for Traditional Medicare. Still others are snookered by all the ads and have not made an informed choice, such as being hawked supplemental benefits like dental care and finding it is extremely limited. By Grace McCormack, Research scientist of Health Policy and Economics, University of Southern California and Victoria Shier, Research Scientist of Health Policy, University of Southern California. Originally published at The Conversation Since the mid-2000s, the Medicare system has dramatically transformed. Enrollment in Medicare Advantage the private alternative to the traditional Medicare program administered by the government has more than quadrupled. It now accounts for the majority of Medicare enrollment. Employers, including state government agencies, are helping drive this growth in Medicare Advantage sign-ups. The increase in people on Medicare Advantage plans burdens taxpayers and means more patients can be denied doctor-ordered care. At the same time, it is often difficult for people enrolled in Medicare Advantage to switch to traditional Medicare. Medicare insures people 65 or older and some who are younger and disabled. Attracted by lower premiums and co-paysand the promise of extra benefits, many over-65 Medicare beneficiaries are voluntarily choosing Medicare Advantage, often switching away from traditional Medicare when theyre relatively young and healthy. At the same time, many private and state employers have shifted their retirement plans so that the health benefit employees have earned counts only toward Medicare Advantage plans that replace traditional Medicare. We are health care policy experts who study Medicare, including whats driving the changes in employer health care subsidies and why health care choices may be difficult for many people. Vanishing Choices As of early 2025, health care subsidies for retired state employees in 13 states dont include traditional Medicare supplement plans. The subsidies apply only to Medicare Advantage plans. In the private sector, just over half of large employers that offer Medicare Advantage have used it to replace traditional Medicare instead of offering their employees a choice. When private and state employers drop the option for the Medigap insurance that supplements rather than replaces traditional Medicare, retirees must choose a fully privatized Medicare Advantage plan or pay the full cost of a supplemental Medigap plan on their own. Medigap lowers or removes traditional Medicares co-pays and deductibles. When a person first enrolls in Medicare, Medigap costs US$30 to $400 a month, depending on coverage and location. But in most states, it can cost more if a person switches into the plan after the first year. There are some protections for people whose employer-sponsored plans change or are canceled. Enrollees should contact their local State Health Insurance Assistance Program advisers to understand their options. Altogether, 54% of people using Medicare are now using the private Medicare Advantage program, an increase from 8 million to 33 million between 2007 and 2024. Changing Times After President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicare into law in 1965, older Americans usually received health insurance through the government-administered traditional Medicare health insurance program. The Medigap private insurance for co-pays and deductibles was standardized in 1980. Today, a person signing up for Medicare also has, on average, more than 30 Medicare Advantage plan options privately run alternatives to traditional Medicare and Medigap. The two largest providers, UnitedHealthcare and Humana, administered nearly half of all Medicare Advantage plans in 2024. Navigating the current Medicare system can be overwhelming, and the Medicare Advantage option is expensive for taxpayers. As policymakers continue to weigh potential reforms, its important to understand why Medicare Advantage has become so popular, who is enrolling in Medicare Advantage, and what aspects of Medicare Advantage plans may be important to them. Switching into Medicare Advantage The bulk of Medicare Advantages rapid growth has come from people switching from traditional Medicare into Medicare Advantage: In 2021 alone, over 7% of Americans covered by traditional Medicare switched to Medicare Advantage, but only 1.2% of those with Medicare Advantage coverage switched to traditional Medicare. This growth mirrors the privatization of Medicaid, the federal and state health insurance program for people with low income. About 74% of beneficiaries are now enrolled in private Medicaid plans. With Medicaid, people generally dont have a choice they are usually switched to a private plan by their state governments. But for Medicare, the privatization trend is not so simple. Compared with traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans are, on average, paid more by the taxpayer-funded Medicare system for covering each enrollee. Advantage plans also have more flexibility to limit their medical costs by restricting provider networks and requiring prior authorization. The Extra Benefits of Medicare Advantage Some of these extra funds result in higher profits for insurers, but they also partially finance benefits that are not part of regular Medicare. These benefits include limits to out-of-pocket costs traditionally offered by the supplemental Medigap plans and dental, hearing and vision coverage that Medicare doesnt provide. In the past decade, lawmakers have introduced several bills to add this coverage, but Congress has not passed any of them. Medicare beneficiaries give many reasons for choosing their health plan. The most common reasons are different for people covered by traditional Medicare versus Medicare Advantage. Of people who have traditional Medicare coverage, 40% prefer to have more doctors and hospitals to choose from. A similar percentage of those with Medicare Advantage cite extra benefits or limits on out-of-pocket costs. Economic Insecurity and Advertising These financial protections and extra benefits are important for some older adults, given high rates of poverty and economic insecurity among people who are 65 or older. Though these supplemental benefits may not be very accessible, a quarter of surveyed beneficiaries said they were a primary reason for enrolling in Medicare Advantage. An additional fifth cited lower out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Advantage plans also typically include a low-cost drug plan that people who opt for traditional Medicare pay for separately as Part D. Compared with a traditional Medicare plan that doesnt include a supplemental Medigap plan to limit premiums and co-pays, Medicare Advantages premiums and co-pays contribute to an estimated 18% to 24% lower out-of-pocket spending. Brokers, agents and advertisements also play an important role in which plans people choose. In a survey of people who have Medicare coverage, one-third said they used an agent or broker to choose a plan. Of those living below the federal poverty line, 12% said they relied on advertising. While these sources can inform beneficiaries about the many options, many policymakers have raised concerns aboutmisleading marketing steering people into plans that dont serve their needs. Brokers and agents may have more incentive to guide patients to Medicare Advantage because they are paid more for enrolling people in fully privatized plans than in the Medigap and Part D plans that supplement traditional Medicare. Retirement Benefits Shifted to Medicare Advantage Changes in retirement benefits are also contributing to the growth in Medicare Advantage. A majority of state employee health care retirement benefits include Medicare Advantage plans. And in 13 states, the health care benefit for retired state employees does not include a choice of Medigap: Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. In the private sector, the share of employers offering retirement health care benefits to their employees has declined since the 1990s: Only 21% of large employers offer those benefits today compared with 66% in 1988. But among private employers that still offer retirement health care benefits, those offering Medicare Advantage more than doubledbetween 2017 and 2024, from 26% to 56%. Just over half of large employers that offer Medicare Advantage have used it to replace regular Medicare instead of offering their employees a choice. This means that to remain in traditional Medicare, retirees would have to give up an employer subsidy that covers all or part of the Medicare Advantage premium and pay the full Medigap premium. Private employers that still offer subsidized health care insurance as a retirement benefit but offer only Medicare Advantage include IBM and AT&T. Employers cite the shift as a necessary response to rising health care costs, though many retirees have protested the trend. Medicare Advantage premiums are generally cheaper than Medigap premiums, saving employers money, in exchange for retirees potentially being denied care more often. New York City employees successfully prevented the switch. Stuck in Medicare Advantage For many Medicare beneficiaries, switching to Medicare Advantage is a one-way street because most states dont offer switchers the guaranteed issue and community rating protections for Medigap supplemental coverage plans that people get when initially signing up for Medicare. These protections prevent people from being denied coverage or charged a higher price for preexisting conditions. This increased cost in most states of switching back to regular Medicare after age 66 especially for people with serious health conditions may reduce the number of people who do so. But some switch despite the cost. Meanwhile, 5% of people who used Medicare Advantage plans in 2024 had to find a new one in 2025 because of a plan being discontinued. There is a silver lining, however: For the first 63 days after their coverage ends, people in failed plans can choose traditional Medicare plus a Medigap supplement with the guaranteed issue protection that in most states applies only during the first year of Medicare eligibility. Who Is Enrolling in Medicare Advantage? Medicare Advantage growth has been particularly strong among people with low incomes and among racial and ethnic minorities. While the share of Americans enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans has grown nationwide, the programs popularity still varies geographically. Today, the share of Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage ranges from 2% in Alaska to 63% in Alabama, Connecticut and Michigan. Although an increasing share of people in rural regions have enrolled in Medicare Advantage, they are still less likely to enroll in Medicare Advantage and more likely to return from Medicare Advantage to traditional Medicare than their urban counterparts. Switching from traditional Medicare to Medicare Advantage is more common among relatively healthy people who use less health care than expected. This trend, known as favorable selection, means the Medicare Advantage companies are enrolling healthier people. The Medicare system pays Medicare Advantage plans based on the expected rather than actual medical costs. This contributes to the overpayment of Medicare Advantage plans. These switching patterns suggest that among people who have illnesses such as diabetes, Medicare Advantage is potentially more appealing if they already face barriers to health care access or are in better health. These barriers are particularly common among racial and ethnic minorities in both traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage. What Medicare Advantage Enrollment Growth Means We believe that the Medicare Advantage program needs to be reformed. The high payments to Medicare Advantage providers have likely helped fund their explosive growth, exacerbating the financing issues that cost taxpayers US$83 billion a year. Medicare Advantage enrollment has grown particularly quickly among vulnerable populations. Many older Medicare beneficiaries are living below or near the poverty line, and a decreasing share of them are receiving subsidized retirement benefits. This has led some people to give up access to preferred providers or even treatments to spend less out of pocket on health care by enrolling in Medicare Advantage. Others who can afford extra premiums and who want more access pay extra for supplemental Medigap coveragealongside traditional Medicare. A Wall Street Journal investigation found a pattern of some Medicare Advantage patients switching to traditional Medicare when their health care expenses grew. In some ways, this resembles the tiered or topped-up health care system advocated for by some economists, where people receive a baseline plan, and those who want more coverage and can afford it pay for a more generous topped-up plan. Given the size and differing needs of the Medicare population, such a system can potentially be a cost-effective way to ensure health care access and financial protections. But it also creates inequalities in access, especially if the baseline plan is much worse than the topped-up plan. In addition, taxpayers pay more rather than less for someone enrolled in Medicare Advantage the less expensive baseline plan that provides less health care. They pay less for someone enrolled in traditional Medicare plus additional supplemental insurance plans the topped-up option. For Medicare to remain solvent, reforms will likely have to reduce what the federal government spends on Medicare, either by avoiding Medicare Advantage plan overpayments or making structural changes to how the plans are paid. We believe its important that, throughout any reform, people have access to an affordable plan that ensures access to health care. Projections show that under the current payment system, reductions in payments from the Medicare system to Medicare Advantage providers would likely lead to only modest decreases in plan generosity, though given the vulnerability of many who use Medicare Advantage, this would have to be monitored carefully. Its also important for policymakers to consider improving traditional Medicare, whether that be allowing for an out-of-pocket maximum or covering at least the same degree of dental, vision or other benefits currently offered only under Medicare Advantage. This article is part of an occasional series examining the U.S. Medicare system. Past articles in the series: Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: Sales pitches are often from biased sources, the choices can be overwhelming, and impartial help is not equally available to all Taxpayers spend 22% more per patient to support Medicare Advantage the private alternative to Medicare that promised to cost less And can it be trusted with it? (rhetorical question) The United States Secretary of Homeland Security spent much of last week visiting countries in Latin America, instructing their respective governments on what they can do to reduce or eliminate their exposure to Trumps first volley of tariffs. On Monday, she sat down for an interview with Fox News chief political anchor Bret Baier and candidly discussed some of the demands she had made of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum during their supposedly private meeting on Friday. Those demands included reinforcing Mexicos southern border with Guatemala, the need to scan shipments that arrive in the US by air from Mexico, verify criminal records with Mexico, and, last but by no means least, share the biometric data of all migrants and travellers with US authorities. The Mexican government was apparently not willing, or in one case was unable, to meet these demands. In her daily press conference on Tuesday, Sheinbaum said she did not agree with further militarising Mexicos border with Guatemala, arguing that the best way to address migration on the southern border is to promote economic development between Southern Mexico and Guatemala by building two industrial centres in Tapachula, the largest city on the southern border, and extending the Interoceanic Train to Guatemala. Its a novel idea that will no doubt get short shrift in the Trump Administration where the common belief, as recently expounded by JD Vance, is that the prevailing economic and trade system should ensure that poor, formerly colonised countries in the Global South remain trapped at the bottom of the global value chain, even if it means that they will be a constant source of outward migration towards the US. The Sheinbaum government was also unable to provide the US with biometric details of Mexican migrants and travellers to the US. In the case of biometric data, I explained to the secretary that in Mexico we do not have biometric data for personal identity and that, in any case, any discussion would have to be part of a working table, so the second agreement was not signed, the Mexican president said. While Mexico may not have that data yet, the Sheinbaum government is planning to convert the so-called Unique Population Registry Code (CURP), a document used to identify oneself, into an identification card with biometric information. And while Mexico and Venezuela may not have developed integrated biometric databases for all their citizens yet most other Latin American countries have, according to a report (in Spanish) by Deutsche Welle: With technological advancement, the need to record and control the personal data of the inhabitants in a secure way became a necessity. Latin America has not been the exception, because in most of the countries that make up this region, changes in that area began about ten years ago, and currently it can be said that almost all of them have modern registration systems that have the information of those who live in their territory. Digital signatures, fingerprints and facial registration are part of the so-called biometric data, which are increasingly used in both the public and private domain, and are collected by governments through the identity documents they issue, which include chips or other tools that contain this sensitive information. Paving A Digital Road to Hell This is largely the result of all the millions, if not billions, of dollars that have flowed from multilateral lenders like the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank into the coffers of national governments in the Global South for the purpose of developing digital identity systems, often with biometric components. In 2022, the World Banks ID for Development program (ID4D) came under intense criticism from the NYU School of Laws Center for Human Rights and Global Justice (CHRGJ) for potentially paving a digital road to hell: Through the embrace of digital technologies, the World Bank and a broader global network of actors has been promoting a new paradigm for ID systems that prioritizes what we refer to as economic identity. These systems focus on fueling digital transactions and transforming individuals into traceable data. They often ignore the ability of identification systems to recognize not only that an individual is unique, but that they have a legal status with associated rights. Still, proponents have cloaked this new paradigm in the language of human rights and inclusion, arguing that such systems will help to achieve multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Like physical roads, national digital identification systems with biometric components (digital ID systems) are presented as the public infrastructure of the digital future The problem, notes the paper, is that this emerging infrastructure has been linked to severe and large-scale human rights violations in a range of countries around the world, affecting social, civil, and political rights. Whats more, the benefits remain ill-defined and poorly documented: Those who stand to benefit the most may not be those left behind, but a small group of companies and security-minded governments. The World Bank and the network argue that investing in digital ID systems is paving the road to an equitable digital future. But, despite undoubted good intentions on the part of some, they may well be paving a digital road to hell. Trump Admin Makes an Offer Most Countries Wont Refuse Now, as if to confirm that fear, the Trump administration wants to get its hands on as much of that biometric data as possible and apparently not only for migration purposes. Asked by a journalist why the US wanted Mexicans biometric identifiers, Sheinbaum said it was primarily in other words, not exclusively for the purposes of migration control. Faced with the threat of double-digit tariffs on their exports to the US at a time of stagnating global economic growth, many countries in the region will not be able to resist the offer of a temporary respite from those tariffs in exchange for sharing their citizens biometric data with the US. A few days before meeting Sheinbaum, Noem signed a Statement of Intent for Biometric Cooperation with Colombian Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia to expand cooperation on biometric data sharing between the two nations. The ostensible purpose of the agreement is to deploy advanced biometric capabilities, including fingerprints and other identifiers, in order to manage migration more effectively and disrupt criminal activities that pose threats to both countries. From Biometric Update: The agreement involves Colombia implementing biometric capabilities through the US Department of Homeland Securitys data-sharing initiative. This collaboration is expected to enhance the detection and prevention of criminal activities at Colombias borders, thereby strengthening regional security systems. Noem noted, Were going to strengthen our regional security systems and make sure were disrupting the movement of threatening actors that perpetuate illegal activity and also facilitate illegal trafficking of migrants. This agreement follows recent tensions between the U.S. and Colombia regarding deportation flights. In January, Colombian President Gustavo Petro halted U.S. deportation flights carrying Colombian nationals, citing concerns over the treatment of migrants. This led to a diplomatic standoff, with U.S. President Donald Trump threatening to impose tariffs and sanctions. The two countries eventually reached a resolution, leading to the resumption of deportation flights. However, concerns have been raised in Colombia about the lack of transparency regarding the actual contents of the signed document, as well as the potential scope of the data exchange. While Colombias deputy foreign minister stressed that gaining access to US databases would help Colombian authorities identify people involved in criminal activities, he also acknowledged that Colombian legislation currently limits the exchange of personal information with other countries to that of foreigners, excluding Colombian citizens. Limited, If Any, Safeguards It is also unclear who will have access to the data in the US and what kind of data protections will apply. This being the US under a second Trump administration that seems hellbent on unleashing the animal spirits in the tech sector, the answer to the latter question is likely to be: few, if any. As Biometric Update reports, since his return to the White House, Trump has already dismantled several Biden-era regulations, including comprehensive guidelines on AI that established at least limited privacy, security, and ethical safeguards: The revocation of these regulations marked a pivotal shift towards a deregulatory approach, prioritizing innovation over oversight [and creating] a fragmented regulatory environment, complicating compliance for law enforcement agencies operating across state lines. This inconsistency not only undermines the effectiveness of state-level protections but also creates legal ambiguities that could be exploited by agencies seeking to circumvent stricter regulations. These legal ambiguities will presumably also be exploited by the tech bros jostling for power and influence within the Trump administration. In fact, their lawyers probably helped write the new soft-touch regulations. Said tech bros include: Elon Musk, who, through DOGE, is reshaping the technological landscape of the federal government while still seemingly intent on turning X into an everything app similar to Chinas We Chat and Alipay; Peter Thiel, who helped finance JD Vances rapid rise to the vice presidency and whose spyware company, Palantir, is well-placed to reap the dividends of Trumps plans for new border enforcement spending, immigration surveillance, and mass deportation; Larry Ellison, who is aggressively pushing for governments around the world, particularly the US and the UK, to embrace fully centralised AI-enabled control and surveillance systems, presumably managed by his company, Oracle, even as it struggles to keep its own clients data secure. Mission Creep Another big concern, of course, is mission creep. Put simply, the US governments biometric data dragnet is unlikely to apply solely to illegal immigrants and criminals. The US government has already built the worlds second largest biometric database in the world, much of the data on which was harvested without the consent of the citizens in question. In 2022, the Biden administration offered to share that data with the governments of the 40 countries selected for its visa waiver program. From our 2022 article, Unbeknown to Most US Citizens, Washington is Preparing to Share Their Biometric Data With Dozens of Other National Governments: On offer is access to vast reams of sensitive data on US citizens held by the Department of Homeland Security. It includes the IDENT/HART database, which the British civil rights organization Statewatch describes as the largest U.S. Government biometric database and the second largest biometric database in the world, containing over 270 million identities from over 40 U.S. agencies. Biometric identifiers include fingerprints, facial features and other physiological characteristics that can be used for automated identification The data-sharing arrangement is being offered to all 40 countries selected for the US governments Visa Waiver Program (VWP). That means their citizens can travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa. They include most of the EUs 27 Member States, three of the US four fellow members of the Five Eye Alliance (United Kingdom, New Zealand and Australia), Japan and South Korea. A Kafkaesque Nightmare Of course, the US government is not offering to share the biometric data of 270 million of its citizens out of pure selfless altruism. It wants something in return namely the biometric data of the citizens of its partner states: In turn, DHS may submit biometrics to IBIS partner countries to search against their biometric identity management systems in order for partner countries to provide DHS with sharable biographic, derogatory, and encounter information when a U.S. search matches their biometric records. This high-volume matching and data exchange is accomplished within minutes and is fully automated; match confirmation and supporting data is exchanged with no officer intervention. The emphasis in the last sentence was added by Statewatch, for good reason. In the fully digitised world that is fast taking shape around us, many of the decisions or actions taken by local, regional or national authorities that affect us will be fully automated; no human intervention will be needed. That means that trying to get those decisions or actions reversed or overturned is likely to be a Kafkaesque nightmare. A Pioneer in Biometric Data Harvesting Since 9/11, one US government after another has expanded and upgraded the biometric entry/exit systems at all points of entry into the US, including land borders, seaports and airports. The US Customs and Border Protection boasts of successfully implementing facial biometrics into the entry processes at all international airports, and processing more than 540 million travellers using biometric facial comparison technology. In this regard, the US has been a pioneer in biometric data harvesting. And now other countries/jurisdictions are trying to catch up. The UK has introduced its Electronic Travel Authorisation, for which many foreign nationals, including USians, Canadians and EU citizens, will have to pay a small fee to be able to travel to the country. As the (London) Times reports, facial recognition technology could as in, will be used to make these contactless corridors possible, which in turn would require international travellers to submit biographic and biometric details, like photos of their faces. The EU, meanwhile, keeps postponing the deadline for its electronic border system due to technical issues. Most recently, Germany, France and the Netherlands warned that the necessary computer systems were not ready, raising concerns about possible queues and delays. Once fully launched, the system will require foreign travellers to register their fingerprints, facial images and other personal details upon arrival. In most of these emerging systems, national citizens do not need to register their finger prints, irises or facial images with their own governments YET! They can continue to use their old school passports, national IDs or driving licences. But it is surely just a matter of time. This is a global agenda that has been pushed for years by some of the most powerful international and multilateral organisations on the planet, from the UN to the WEF (more or less the same thing these days), to the World Bank, the IMF, the Bank of International Settlements and the G20. One of the UNs Sustainable Development Goals (SDG #16.9) is to provide a legal identity for all by 2030. And that identity will be of a digital nature not just for the hundreds of millions who currently do not have legal identity, but for everyone on the planet. Meanwhile, back in the US the Trump administration is also using the issue of voter ID as a possible gateway to biometric-enabled digital ID. In an interview last August with the podcaster Pat Bet David, Trumps lawyer Alina Habba proposed using digital ID to vote. I always say, why cant we have clear ID for voting. I go the airport, I have clear ID. I go in there, they scan my eyes. I got one ticket, I vote, thats it. No ones screwing with it. Whether you hope your chances are better under a Trump admin, or you think theyre all out to get us plebs, you should take note that: -Trumps attorney pushed biometrics for voting -Kushner desired bringing Mr UBI World Coin into the WH for programmable CBDC discussions https://t.co/ufh8zYDcK6 pic.twitter.com/aO95phHXA7 Jesse Matchey (@JesseMatchey) August 15, 2024 Just over a week ago, Trump signed an executive order mandating stricter voter identification measures. The order specifically cites India and Brazil as models for voter identification, noting their use of biometric-linked voter databases. The irony is that one of the main reasons Trump voters voted for Trump was because he promised to protect freedom of speech and other basic constitutional rights. Yet since his return to the WH, his government has conducted one of the gravest attacks on freedom of speech since the Second World War by arresting and deporting foreign residents who openly criticise Israels genocide in Gaza. It is also rounding up and shipping off Venezuelan immigrants to mega-prisons in Bukeles El Salvador without any due process. At the same time, Trump officials are shaking down governments in Latin America for their citizens biometric data, offering them a temporary respite from the threat of tariffs in return. Many, like Colombia, will take up the offer, seeing it as an easily achievable goal. But in the process, they are selling out their citizens most precious data to a foreign government (and corporations) that will use it, misuse it and abuse it. Ultimately, this is all about control. The physical wall separating the US from Mexico that Trump promised his voters last time round may never have been completed, but another wall is being erected in its place: the smart wall. And it is much more dangerous. As a recent article by Petra Molnar for the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists warns, one thing we can rest assured is that Trumps border technologies will not stay at the border, just as the biometric technologies tried and tested on the battlefields of Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya all ended up coming back home: This is one threat posed by the Trump Administration that is getting relatively little attention both in the US and abroad, perhaps because is a threat posed by most, if not all, governments in the world today. As economies buckle, societies break down and social contracts lose their meaning, biometric ID surveillance and control systems and other digital public infrastructure (DPI) offer governments and the tech monopolies, banks and other corporations with which they partner a rare opportunity not only to maintain control but significantly expand it. Humanities Tennessee's National Endowment for the Humanities grant, worth about $1.2 million annually, has been terminated Last month I promised to update you with more details about Dining Out for Life, the major fundraiser for Nashville CARES to help support the organizations efforts to provide services to members of our community with HIV and AIDS. Well, Im (usually) a man of my word, so here are the latest DOFL deets! First, the response from the restaurant community has been overwhelming! With a little less than a month to go until the May 1 event, almost 70 restaurants have signed up to participate, a big increase over last years roster of generous establishments. All have committed to donating at least 25 percent of their sales on the date to Nashville CARES, with dozens pledging 50 percent, 75 percent or even 100 percent of their receipts to the cause. Even though this is a mature fundraiser with decades of experience, its great how both the CARES staff and the participating restaurants have been looking for creative ways to bring new things to the table. Some restaurants, like Cafe Cheeserie and Noko are planning their donation around a special dish, offering 100% of the proceeds toward the fundraiser. Next door to Noko, Kase x Noko has generously offered a seating just for DOFL participants at their omakase service on Monday, May 5 the one day of the week that theyre not normally open. A couple of other restaurants have also chosen a different date for their events so diners can spread their participation out a little bit. Miel will be offering 50 percent of dining receipts for Wednesday, April 30, and The Lipstick Lounge will reprise its annual festive DOFL brunch service on Saturday, May 3, contributing 100 percent of food sales to CARES. If you want to figure out the best way to maximize your dining donation dollars for May 1 or choose your restaurant by neighborhood or time of day, DOFL organizers are hard at work updating a constantly-growing list of restaurants at the event website, so check back often. You can also sort the list a few different ways if that helps you make choices. Dining Out for Life also features wonderful volunteer hosts, and anyone is eligible to join in that fun. More than two dozen hosts have already stepped up, and all they really have to do is invite their friends and contacts to dine with them at a particular restaurant during the event. Hosts dont have to pay for the party; they dont have to clean up; all they have to do is have a great time with their friends. If you know of a place youd like to host and suggest they join the effort, or if you see a spot already on the list that youd like to volunteer to help out with, just fill out this quick questionnaire, and a staff member will get back to you soon. For even more motivation to become a host, anyone who signs up with a restaurant by noon today, April 4 (I hope youre reading this early!), will be entered in a drawing for the chance to win two seats at an exclusive Sunday Supper on April 13 with Chef Arnold Myint at International Market, celebrating Thai New Year. Chef Myint is a longtime ardent supporter of DOFL and CARES, and he has generously set aside seats at his dinner, a $110-per-seat value! Whether you want to be a host or a guest, Dining Out for Life is a fun and easy way to contribute to a very important local nonprofit that has done amazing work in Middle Tennessee for 40 years! Please consider being a part of this great event. As this years legislative session winds toward its close, proposed legislation on elections, gun reform and health care was debated by lawmakers this week. +4 Protester Arrested as Lawmakers Debate Bill Targeting Undocumented Students Legislation heading for Senate floor following discussion of its financial impact Protests continued to erupt over a bill that would allow local school boards to prohibit undocumented students from enrolling in public schools, or charge their families tuition leading to the arrest of 80-year-old protester Lynne McFarland on Tuesday. This weeks debate on the bill focused on the Republican argument that it will save Tennessee money. No evidence has been shown to prove this statement, and some Democrats this week said the legislation could add an extra administrative burden to schools. Health Care Earlier this week, a bill passed a House subcommittee that would name some instances in which an abortion could be legal in Tennessee to preserve the life of the mother. The legislation is headed for both the House and Senate floors. Rep. John Ray Clemmons (D-Nashville) claimed this clarification bill, as it has been called by sponsors, claims it is designed to absolve the states attorney general from a lawsuit. It will be heard again by the Senate on Monday. Abortion-Exception Clarification Bill Proceeds Opponents claim legislation is intended to absolve AG from physician-brought lawsuit A bipartisan bill that would provide a path for families to be paid under TennCare to care for their relatives with disabilities is on its way to the governors desk. Brought by Sen. Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis) and Rep. Michael Hale (R-Smithville), the bill aims to address a caregiver shortage for people in the states home- and community-based services programming for seniors and those with disabilities. A bill passed the Senate this week that would grant legal immunity to pesticide company Bayer-Monsanto, preventing victims from suing over harms alleged to be caused by the companys products. Elections Several bills related to voting, elections and campaign donations made their way through the state legislature this week. SB 626/HB 457 would alter several aspects of Tennessee voting laws. The bill would require county election officials to purge voters who have not participated in two consecutive regular November elections or update their registration. The bill passed the Senate State and Local Government Committee this week and is set to be heard on the Senate floor soon. Another Republican-backed bill related to purging voters would give election officials the power to purge inactive voter registrations three months before a statewide August election. This repeals a current state law prohibiting the purging of voter rolls fewer than 90 days before an election. A piece of legislation that would require voters to register with a political party to vote in primary elections failed in the Senate State and Local Government Committee on April 1 SB 627/HB 581 would prohibit candidates from accepting more than 50 percent of campaign contributions through an online platform. Democrats say this targets fundraising platforms like ActBlue and WinRed and could impact candidates who rely on grassroots donors. The bill is set to be heard on the Senate floor in the coming weeks. Gun Reform The House Criminal Justice Subcommittee punted Democrats illegal transfer bill on Tuesday when it assigned the legislation to next years calendar. The law would make it a class-A misdemeanor to sell, give or otherwise transfer a firearm to someone who is known to be prohibited from owning one. Sen. Heidi Campbell (D-Nashville) sponsored the bill in the Senate, where debate on the bill was deferred this week in the Senate Judiciary Committee to April 8, and Rep. Bob Freeman sponsored the bill in the House. (Freeman is the owner of FW Publishing, which publishes the Nashville Scene, the Nashville Post, the Williamson Scene and Nfocus.) Reps. Pearson, Farmer Clash Over Gun Legislation Democrat-led gun control bills fail in committee as Pearson delivers impassioned plea related to his brother's death A bill to legalize extreme risk protection orders mandates issued by a court when an individual is deemed a danger to others or to themself was pulled from the House Civil Justice Subcommittee by sponsor Rep. Justin J. Pearson (D-Memphis). Also known as red-flag orders, ERPOs are considered life-saving dispossession tools to prevent deaths by homicide and suicide. Pearson lost his brother to a self-inflicted gunshot wound in late 2024; Republicans unanimously oppose the bill. The Senate Judiciary Committee is set to review a slate of firearm-related bills on April 8. These include bills on gun dispossession, increased legal penalties for gun misuse, handgun permit regulations and liability protections for weapon manufacturers. State Sens. London Lamar (D-Memphis) and Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis) are both backing bills that would allow local municipalities to more tightly regulate guns in the counties that include Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga. This story is a partnership between the Nashville Banner and the Nashville Scene. The Nashville Banner is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization focused on civic news. Visit nashvillebanner.com for more information. The decades-old Southern Festival of Books, an anchor of Nashvilles literary community, is among the potential victims of the latest round of cuts proposed by President Donald Trump and the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency. Tim Henderson, executive director of Humanities Tennessee, sent out a memo with great urgency Thursday afternoon, informing community members that the organization had received notification that its National Endowment for the Humanities grant, worth about $1.2 million annually, had been terminated. According to the memo, that funding supports the Southern Festival of Books, held every year in Nashville since 1989, in addition to books coverage service Chapter 16 (through which the Scene sources much of its books coverage), young writer and reader programs, history programs celebrating the country's 250th anniversary, and funding for rural museums and historical societies. The memo also urges supporters to contact congressional representatives and support the organization financially. One for the Books: Southern Festival of Books Returns Oct. 26-27 in downtown Nashville, the festival will celebrate literary excellence close to home "While we stand up for the continued NEH funding, which is appropriated by Congress and at their discretion, our team is also working feverishly to continue our private fundraising efforts," Henderson writes. "We know we are not alone in feeling the impact of federal budget cuts to our programs and people. We know you have many causes you care for deeply. And we thank you for your efforts to stand up for the humanities, for all Tennesseans and all Americans." The New York Times reported earlier this week that Trump and Musk aides had pushed out NEH's leader and were demanding dramatic cuts both to its staffing and grant funding around the country. State humanities councils like Humanities Tennessee derive most of their funding from NEH, the Times reported. "The status of the festival right now is, I would say, tenuous," Henderson told the Nashville Banner as he was preparing for a board meeting Thursday evening. "Our anticipation is that we would put that festival on as people would know it." Henderson says the organization is "really opposed" to charging entrance fees to the festival, which is partially funded by private donations and foundation support. He said he has sought unsuccessfully to get answers from NEH. Humanities Tennessee carries a full-time staff of eight, with two contract employees, overseeing work in all corners of the state, Henderson says. Those jobs and the programs overseen by the organization aren't at risk in the short term but could be if the federal support goes away entirely. "Without that it's hard to imagine doing nearly all of the work that we do," he says. The NEH awarded $13.63 million to projects in Tennessee between fiscal years 2019 and 2023. Other local direct recipients have included Fisk University, The Hermitage, Vanderbilt University and the Country Music Hall of Fame. This pool of funding also supports descendent-led archaeological research at Fort Negley. Trump Admin Looks to Dismantle Institute of Museum and Library Services Heres how we could see an impact on the state and local levels Dr. Angela Sutton, who leads the Fort Negley project, tells the Banner she is dismayed, especially because the work is "about church and veterans and homemaking and neighborhoods themes that are so important to our state right now." She also emphasizes her concern about the manner in which the funding is being canceled. "All the grants that have already been made, Congress signed off on, so they are legally ours," she says. This year's iteration of the Southern Festival of Books, the 37th annual, is scheduled for Oct. 18 and 19 at the Bicentennial Mall, the Tennessee State Museum and the Tennessee State Library. Last year's event featured an estimated 175 authors and 25,000 attendees. A spokesperson for Republican U.S. Rep. Mark Green, a Trump supporter whose District 7 includes the festival site, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Locally, Trump's and Musk's cuts have threatened food pantries, weather forecasters, vaccine distribution, health research, transportation planning and libraries and museums. Metro Nashville has already filed one lawsuit and threatened more as it seeks to preserve funding already promised by the federal government. Steve Haruch contributed reporting. This article first appeared on Nashville Banner and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. China completes major live-fire drills targeting Taiwan ports, energy sites China concluded high-stakes war exercises ("Strait Thunder-2025A") simulating attacks on key Taiwanese ports and energy facilities, involving over 20 naval vessels and 50 aircraft. The drills aimed to showcase military readiness and warn Taiwan against separatist actions. Under President Xi Jinping, China has intensified the scale and sophistication of such exercises since 2016, serving as both tactical rehearsals for invasion and demonstrations of military strength. The PLA conducted live-fire drills, including long-range strikes targeting critical infrastructure, while the Shandong aircraft carrier led multi-dimensional blockade exercises to isolate Taiwan strategically. Taiwan and the U.S. denounced the drills as reckless, with Washington reaffirming support for Taiwans security and warning against unilateral changes to the status quo. The drills reflect Beijings growing aggression, raising fears of escalation. The international community, led by the U.S., is reinforcing deterrence efforts amid heightened cross-Strait tensions. In a pivotal move that has heightened regional tensions, Chinas military wrapped up a series of high-stakes war drills near Taiwan on Wednesday, culminating in simulated attacks on key ports and energy facilities. The exercises, part of the Strait Thunder-2025A series, showcased Beijings evolving maritime and aerial capabilities, while serving as a stern warning to Taipei and its allies. The drills, which involved over 20 naval vessels, 50 aircraft and live-fire exercises, have been described by PLA officials as a necessary response to what they perceive as escalating separatist rhetoric from Taiwans leadership. Escalating tensions and historical context The drills are the latest in a series of military exercises that have become more frequent and sophisticated under President Xi Jinpings leadership. Since 2016, Beijing has significantly increased the complexity and frequency of these drills, aimed not only at intimidating Taiwan but also at validating its military capabilities for a potential future invasion. Analysts suggest that these exercises serve both as tactical rehearsals and strategic demonstrations of strength. David Silbey, a professor of military history at Cornell University, emphasizes the complexity of amphibious assaults: China cant just build the ships and charge over to Taiwan. They need extensive practice in all aspects of such an operation, from logistics to precision strikes. These drills are essential for honing their skills. Precision strikes and strategic messaging On the second day of the drills, the PLA Eastern Theater Command initiated live-fire exercises in the East China Sea, targeting simulated ports and energy sites. The exercises included long-range strike drills that demonstrated the PLAs ability to paralyze critical infrastructure across Taiwan. Senior Colonel Shi Yi, a PLA spokesperson, praised the operations success, stating, The drills involved precision strikes on simulated targets such as key ports and energy facilities and achieved the intended results. The Shandong aircraft carrier, along with naval and air forces, conducted exercises to the east of Taiwan, focusing on ship-aircraft coordination and establishing regional air superiority. These maneuvers emphasized Chinas capability to execute multi-dimensional blockades, isolating Taiwan both strategically and operationally. International response and diplomatic fallout Taiwans Ministry of National Defense denounced the drills as reckless and irresponsible, with the islands military raising its readiness level to prevent any potential escalation into actual combat. The United States, which remains Taiwans staunchest international ally, joined Taipei in condemning Chinas actions. The U.S. State Department reiterated its commitment to Taiwans security and condemned Beijings efforts to intimidate Taipei. Chinas aggressive military activities and rhetoric towards Taiwan only serve to exacerbate tensions and put the regions security and the worlds prosperity at risk, the State Department stated. The U.S. further warned that any unilateral attempt to change the status quo would be unwelcome. A pattern of escalation As China continues to assert its military prowess in the Taiwan Strait, the region teeters on the brink of heightened instability. The Strait Thunder-2025A drills are part of a pattern of increasing aggression that underscores Beijings determination to maintain control over what it views as an integral part of its territory. The drills also serve as a stark reminder of the potential for escalation, with both sides accusing each other of brinkmanship. For now, the international community watches closely, with the U.S. and its allies reinforcing their commitment to deterrence and stability in the region. The geopolitical landscape remains fraught with uncertainty, making the resolution of cross-Strait tensions more urgent than ever. Beijings message is clear: Confrontational rhetoric will not be tolerated, and the PLA is prepared to act accordingly. As strategic competition intensifies, the world waits to see if diplomacy can avert further escalation. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com OneDecision.com CNN.com SCMP.com FBI imposed gag order after accidentally confirming Hunter Biden laptop was authentic An FBI analyst confirmed Hunter Bidens laptop was authentic in 2020, but bureau leadership imposed a gag order to silence discussion. The laptop contained emails implicating Joe Biden in pressuring Ukraine to fire a prosecutor investigating Burisma, where Hunter was paid $50,000/month. FBI officials scrambled to suppress the story, with internal messages showing efforts to avoid discussing the "Biden matter." Big Tech censored the New York Posts reporting, citing dubious "hacked materials" policies, despite FBI knowledge of the laptops authenticity. The FBIs silence allowed false "Russian disinformation" claims to flourish, potentially altering the 2020 election outcome. Just weeks before the 2020 presidential election, an FBI analyst inadvertently confirmed the authenticity of Hunter Bidens abandoned laptop only for bureau leadership to immediately impose a "gag order" silencing further discussion, according to newly released internal messages. The explosive revelations, first reported by independent journalists Catherine Herridge and Michael Shellenberger, expose how the FBI allowed false narratives about "Russian disinformation" to flourish while suppressing evidence that could have damaged Joe Bidens campaign. The laptop contained emails suggesting then-Vice President Biden pressured Ukrainian officials to fire a prosecutor investigating Burisma, the firm paying his son $50,000 per month. Critics now argue the FBIs actions, alongside Big Tech censorship and media complicity, may have altered the elections outcome. The accidental admission and immediate cover-up On October 14, 2020 the same day the New York Post broke its first story on Hunter Bidens laptop an FBI analyst on a call with Twitter (now X) confirmed the device was real. "Yes, the laptop is real," the analyst stated, according to testimony from Laura Dehmlow, then-head of the FBIs Foreign Influence Task Force. But within moments, an FBI attorney intervened, declaring, "We will not comment further on this topic." Internal chat logs obtained by House Republicans reveal bureau officials scrambling to contain the fallout. One exchange shows FBI Special Agent Elvis Chan, who liaised with social media companies, asking, "Actually, what kind of case is the laptop thing? Corruption? Campaign financing?" The response "CLOSE HOLD" was partially redacted, but Chans alarmed reply "Oh crap. OK. It ends here" suggests the investigations sensitivity. Another message from an FBI attorney bluntly ordered: "Please do not discuss Biden matter." The FBI had possessed the laptop since December 2019, after a Delaware repair shop owner turned it over, warning of potential crimes. Forensic analysis confirmed it belonged to Hunter Biden, was unaltered, and contained admissible evidence later used in his 2024 tax and gun trials. Yet bureau leadership chose silence, allowing claims of "Russian disinformation" to dominate headlines. The laptops contents were damning: Emails revealed Hunters lucrative dealings with Burisma and Chinese energy firms, as well as a 2015 meeting with a Burisma executive where then-VP Biden was referenced. Most critically, one email appeared to corroborate claims that Joe Biden pressured Ukraine to fire Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin, who was investigating Burisma. At the time, Biden bragged about withholding U.S. aid until Shokin was ousted a move he later defended as U.S. policy, despite Shokins insistence he was fired to protect Burisma. Yet instead of clarifying the facts, the FBIs Foreign Influence Task Force tasked with countering election meddling effectively enabled disinformation by refusing to correct the record. "The FBI could have set the record straight by confirming the laptop was real and the subject of an ongoing criminal probe," Herridge and Shellenberger noted. "Instead, FBI leadership allowed the false narrative about the laptop to gain momentum." Big Tech played its part: Twitter and Facebook censored the New York Posts reporting, citing "hacked materials" policies policies selectively enforced after FBI warnings about a potential "hack and leak" operation. Internal "Twitter Files" later revealed FBI officials had preemptively briefed social media companies to treat the story as suspect, despite knowing the laptop was genuine. A pattern of political protection The FBIs suppression of the laptop story fits a broader pattern of shielding the Bidens. IRS whistleblowers revealed the Justice Department slow-walked Hunters tax investigation, while the FBI allegedly interfered with a 2020 Senate probe into his foreign dealings. Meanwhile, corporate media largely ignored the laptop until after the election, with 51 former intelligence officials falsely labeling it "Russian disinformation" a narrative the Biden campaign amplified. Four years later, Hunter Bidens legal troubles have validated the laptops authenticitybut the damage is done. Had the FBI, media, and tech giants acted impartially, voters might have weighed evidence suggesting Joe Biden leveraged his office to benefit his sons foreign patrons. Instead, the truth was buried under a coordinated effort to protect a presidential campaign. Sources for this article include: LifeSiteNews.com NYPost.com NationalReview.com Forever chemicals haunt North Carolina homes as PFAS found in dust near Chemours plant Toxic PFAS chemicals, including banned ones, were found in household dust near a Chemours plant in North Carolina. Every dust sample from 65 homes contained PFAS, with higher levels near the plant. Older PFAS like PFOA and PFOS, phased out years ago, were still detected in most samples. Dust is a significant exposure route, especially for children, due to their hand-to-mouth behavior. Critics argue regulatory actions came too late, leaving residents exposed to long-term health risks. Toxic PFAS chemicals, including some banned decades ago, have infiltrated household dust near a Chemours manufacturing plant in North Carolina, a new study reveals, underscoring the failure of regulations to protect communities from persistent industrial pollution. Researchers found these "forever chemicals" in every dust sample collected from 65 homes near the Fayetteville Works facility, with higher concentrations in houses closest to the plant raising urgent questions about the effectiveness of environmental oversight and the long-term health risks for residents. The findings, published in Environmental Science & Technology, highlight how PFAS linked to cancer, liver damage, and immune dysfunction continue to plague communities long after their phase-out, suggesting that corporate and government actions have fallen short of safeguarding public health. Dust as a silent carrier of toxins The study, part of NC State Universitys GenX Exposure Study, analyzed kitchen dust collected in 2019 from homes within six miles of the Chemours plant. Researchers detected at least one type of PFAS in all samples, with 89% containing GenX, a compound tied to kidney damage and marketed as a "safer" replacement for older PFAS like PFOA and PFOS. Shockingly, 74% of samples still contained PFOA (phased out in 2015) and over 80% had PFOS (discontinued in 2002), proving these chemicals persist in the environment despite regulatory bans. "PFAS exposure via contaminated well water is relatively well studied, but given the air emissions from the plant, we wanted to learn whether household dust was also a source of exposure," said lead researcher Nadine Kotlarz, an environmental engineer at NC State. The answer was unequivocal: Dust is a significant exposure route, especially for children. "Little kids crawl on the floor, they put their hands in their mouth. That's normal behavior. Thats why little kids get lead poisoning from lead in dust," noted Jane Hoppin, an epidemiologist involved in the study. Regulatory shortfalls and corporate delays The dust samples predate a 2019 state order requiring Chemours to install thermal oxidizers to reduce PFAS air emissions by 99.9%. Critics argue the measure came too late. "These five-year-old dust samples pre-date the comprehensive actions taken at Fayetteville Works to address fluorinated organic chemical (FOC) process emissions," a Chemours spokesperson said, deflecting blame. But residents like Vickie Mullins, whose drinking water was contaminated, remain skeptical: "The only way to stop this is to shut the plant down." The study also detected trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) a controversial ultrashort-chain PFAS in 89% of homes. While Europe classifies TFA as PFAS, the U.S. EPA does not, leaving regulatory gaps. The findings add to mounting evidence of PFASs omnipresence, from drinking water to food suppliesand now, dust. Despite Chemours emission controls, researchers stress the need for follow-up testing to assess whether reductions in air pollution have translated to safer homes. "Now that the thermal oxidizer is in place, it would be interesting to see whether we continue to see this trend," Hoppin said. For North Carolina communities, the study is a reminder of the long shadow cast by industrial pollution. As PFAS linger in dust, water, and blood, the burden falls on regulators to enforce tougher standardsand on companies to prioritize public health over profit. Until then, residents remain trapped in a toxic legacy, one dust particle at a time. Sources for this article include: ChildrensHealthDefense.org TheHill.com WRAL.com Israel bombs Syrian military sites in warning to Turkey amid rising tensions Israel launched airstrikes on Syrian military sites, including the Barzeh center, Hama airport, and T4 airbase. The attacks were a warning to Turkey, which plans to take control of Syrias strategic T4 airbase. Turkey is preparing to equip T4 with advanced air defenses and station F-16s in Syria. Israel warns of a "do or die" scenario as Turkish influence grows under Syrias new Islamist leadership. Both sides accuse each other of destabilizing the region, raising fears of direct conflict. Israel launched airstrikes against multiple Syrian military sites overnight, including the Barzeh research center, Hama military airport, and the T4 airbase near Palmyra. The attacks, which reportedly caused casualties in Damascus and Hama, were described by Israeli Army Radio as a direct "warning to Turkish President Erdogan." The strikes come amid growing concerns over Turkeys plans to take control of Syrias strategic T4 airbase, raising fears of a potential military confrontation between the two regional powers. The latest Israeli offensive underscores the volatile landscape in Syria following Decembers coup, which saw a Turkish and Gulf-backed Islamist faction seize power in Damascus. Since then, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes against Syrian military assets while expanding its presence in southern Syria most recently with reports of Israeli armored vehicles entering the Al-Jabaliya Dam forest area. With Ankara now moving to solidify its influence in Syria, Israeli officials warn of a looming "do or die" scenario that could drag the region into deeper conflict. Turkeys strategic moves in Syria Reports from Middle East Eye (MEE) indicate that Turkey has begun preparations to assume control of the T4 airbase, a critical site near Palmyra in central Syria. Ankara plans to equip the base with a Hisar-type air defense system, capable of countering jets, drones, and missiles at short, medium, and long ranges. Once operational, the facility will reportedly host surveillance and armed drones, including models with extended strike capabilities. Turkish media has also revealed plans to establish two new military bases in Syria to train a reconstituted Syrian armed forces, including pilots for a future air force. The proposal includes stationing 50 Turkish F-16 fighter jets at these bases until Syrias air capabilities are fully restored. For Israel, these developments represent a direct challenge. "Any significant Turkish military presence, especially in strategic locations like Palmyra, could be perceived as a threat to Israeli security interests," an unnamed senior Israeli military official told The War Zone. The official warned that Turkeys deepening involvement, combined with Syrias new Islamist leadership, could push the region toward open conflict. Israels escalating campaign in Syria Israels latest airstrikes mark some of its most aggressive actions in Syria since the December coup. The attacks targeted remaining military infrastructure, including the near-total destruction of the Hama airbase. Syrian state media reported nine killed in southern Syria during what it called Israels "deepest incursion yet." Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz framed the strikes as a preemptive measure, stating, "We will not allow the security of the State of Israel to be harmed." He warned Syrias new government against permitting hostile forces near Israeli territory, threatening further retaliation. Meanwhile, Israel has expanded its military footprint in southern Syria, declaring intentions to remain indefinitely. Recent movements include armored vehicles entering the Al-Jabaliya Dam forest, signaling a potential long-term occupation. A looming "do or die" scenario? The growing Turkish-Israeli rivalry in Syria has raised alarms among analysts. Ankaras ambitions to turn Syria into a "protectorate," as described by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, clash with Israels determination to prevent hostile forces from gaining ground near its borders. The unnamed Israeli military officials assessment that Erdogan may choose escalation amid domestic instability suggests the situation could spiral into a direct confrontation. "It could become a 'do or die' scenario for him," the official said. Syrias Foreign Ministry condemned Israels actions as destabilizing, while Turkey accused Israel of being a "strategic destabilizer" in the region. The UN has also criticized the repeated airstrikes as potential violations of international law. As Turkey and Israel maneuver for influence in post-coup Syria, the risk of unintended conflict grows. With Ankara fortifying its military presence and Israel vowing to strike any perceived threats, the region teeters on the edge of a wider confrontation. For now, the airstrikes serve as a warning but whether diplomacy or further escalation follows remains uncertain. Sources for this article include: TheCradle.co Reuters.com AlJazeera.com Evil people: Organized bankrupt Tesla group tied to formerly USAID-funded disinfo queen To review - Jankowicz, who previously served as a disinformation fellow at the Wilson Center, advised the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry as part of the Fulbright-Clinton Public Policy Fellowship, and was then selected to head the Biden DHS's newly formed Disinformation Governance Board - which was quickly dismantled amid criticism over (Article by Tyler Durden republished from ZeroHedge.com) Four months later, she launched "The Hypatia Project" for CIR - where she was the Vice President until April 2024, at which point she co-founded the American Sunlight Project. Fast forward to this morning, Jankowicz was evasive when asked by Republicans during a congressional hearing on disinformation about her funding... Nina Jankowicz, the short-lived head of Bidens Disinformation Governance Board aka Disinformation Czar refuses to say if her new org, The American Sunlight Projegt, is funded by George Soros. So sunlight for other people but not for your donors @RepBaumgartner quips pic.twitter.com/2RIiI1VU16 Rob (@RobMcGravytrain) April 1, 2025 Well, Well, Well As it turns out, Jankowicz's co-founder at the American Sunlight Project is Carlos Alvarez-Aranyos, a "communications professional" who worked for the Biden DoD, and is "one of the people who launched the call for a boycott of Tesla." Alvarez-Aranyos comes from a wealthy and prominent family in the Dominican Republic. His father, Luis Alvarez Renta, is a well-known Dominican financier. Carlos is a nephew of the renowned fashion designer Oscar de la Renta. Biden's censorship queen Nina Jankowicz currently works at the American Sunlight Project (ASP), and previously worked at USAID-funded Center for Information Resilience. The ASP was co-founded by Carlos Alvarez-Aranyos is a "communications professional" who worked for Biden's https://t.co/uIgDszSDKLpic.twitter.com/x60Ju2wzYh zerohedge (@zerohedge) April 1, 2025 I need to have on my resume, so I can get a job when this thing is over, that I bankrupted Tesla. This is an outright admission the top Tesla boycott organizers personal financial prospects depend on taking down Tesla, and they must succeed in order to get paid. https://t.co/CJnQDX38rCpic.twitter.com/Ti775yTplt Mike Benz (@MikeBenzCyber) March 30, 2025 Alvarez-Aranyos has been scrubbed from the American Sunlight Project's website, which is why the internet archive exists. Early organizers of the "Tesla Takedown" protests said last month that the organization's goal is to drive down the price of Tesla stock. Another "Tesla Takedown" organizer, Edward Niedermeyer, told Fortune Magazine that dropping Musk's wealth is exactly their aim. "The goal, I would say, is to bankrupt Elon Muskbring down his empire," he said. Read more on the Tesla Takedown organizers here... Musk chimed in, calling the organizers "Evil people..." Read more at: ZeroHedge.com Trump floats tariff reduction for China to secure TikTok deal President Donald Trump suggested lowering tariffs on Chinese goods as part of negotiations to facilitate ByteDance's sale of TikTok, citing trade leverage. The April 5 deadline for TikTok's forced sale may be extended again if negotiations progress, despite earlier urgency for a swift resolution. Trump remained noncommittal on whether ByteDance could retain partial ownership, stating only that the final deal must be "best for the country." The latest remarks contrast with earlier statements from Commerce Secretary Lutnick and VP Vance, who emphasized avoiding extensions and finalizing a deal by the deadline. The discussion comes amid broader trade measures, including new tariffs on foreign vehicles and increased tariffs on Chinese imports. U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that he would consider lowering tariffs on Chinese goods to facilitate a deal requiring ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, to sell the popular social media platform used by 170 million Americans. Speaking in a press conference at the Oval Office on March 26, Trump said that easing trade penalties could be part of the negotiations as the April 5 deadline for TikTok's forced sale approaches. "With respect to TikTok and China is going to have to play a role in that, possibly in the form of an approval, maybe, and I think they'll do that. Maybe I'll give them a little reduction in tariffs or something to get it done because every point in tariffs is worth more than TikTok," Trump said The remarks came shortly after Trump announced a new 25 percent tariff on foreign-made vehicle imports, part of his broader trade policies targeting multiple nations. Earlier this month, Trump raised tariffs on all Chinese imports to 20 percent, doubling the 10 percent rate imposed in February. (Related: China STRIKES BACK, imposes retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods as trade tensions escalate.) Initially, ByteDance was required to divest from TikTok by Jan. 19 or face a nationwide ban. However, Trump granted a 75-day extension, pushing the deadline to April 5. The president indicated he might extend the deadline again if negotiations progress. "We will have a form of a deal. TikTok is very popular," he said. "Very successful, very good. We're going to have a form of a deal. But if it's not finished it's not a big deal, we'll just extend it. I have the right to have the deal and to extend it if I want." he added. However, when pressed on whether ByteDance could retain partial ownership of TikTok's U.S. operations, Trump remained noncommittal, saying only, "We will find the one that's best for the country." Trump willing to engage in deal-making to protect U.S. interests Earlier this month, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that the president aims to finalize a deal on TikTok's future ownership before the current deadline, emphasizing that the president "doesn't like to ask for extensions." At the time, Lutnick warned that there was no guarantee Trump would reach an agreement by April 5. Vice President JD Vance also echoed a similar statement. He expressed optimism that a deal to keep TikTok operating in the U.S. could be finalized by the early April deadline. According to NBC News, Vance did not disclose potential buyers but acknowledged that unresolved issues might delay a final agreement beyond the target date. "We'd like to get it done without the extension," Vance said at that time. "I think the question is, what is the equity ownership of the new joint venture? How do you do the contracts for all the investors, the customers, the service providers? The deal itself will be very clear, but actually creating those thousands and thousands of pages of legal documents, that's the one thing that I worry could slip." This shift toward pursuing negotiations with China on TikTok's future ownership demonstrates his pragmatic leadership and commitment to securing the best possible outcome for American interests. Rather than resorting to abrupt bans or unilateral actions, his willingness to engage in deal-making reflects a strategic approach: one that prioritizes economic stability, technological innovation and fair terms for U.S. businesses and users. Head over to Trump.news for related news. Trump should put the tariffs on immediately, expert says. Watch this video. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Trump stands firm on tariffs: Mexico, Canada and China face new trade measures over fentanyl crisis. China prepares to resume trade talks with Trump amid tariff pressures. Trump's tariff threat on Taiwan's semiconductors sends shockwaves through global tech industry. London gold market faces shortage and prices soar as Trump tariff fears spark U.S. stockpiling. Trump's tariff gamble: A bold move to secure borders or a risky blow to North American trade? Sources include: Reuters.com TheHill.com APNews.com Brighteon.com The hidden power: Unveiling the national banking money monopoly in America In "The Coming Battle: A Complete History of the National Banking Money Power in the United States," M.W. Walbert traces the history of financial power from ancient civilizations to modern times, highlighting its transformation into the control of money and credit. The book delves into the contentious debates among the Founding Fathers, particularly Alexander Hamilton's advocacy for a strong central bank versus Thomas Jefferson's fears of an unelected elite controlling the economy. Walbert meticulously documents the creation of the first Bank of the United States and its subsequent influence. Walbert chronicles the rise and fall of the United States Bank, detailing its political battles, financial panics and its role in engineering economic hardship through deliberate currency contraction. He portrays the bank as a powerful adversary to the government, influencing elections and opposing government efforts during the War of 1812. Walbert introduces the concept of the "modern money power," arguing that it has become a pervasive force controlling global markets and economies. He calls for the "dethronement" of this power, advocating for government control over currency issuance to preserve American liberty and ensure justice for all. Walbert examines the 1873 demonetization of silver, portraying it as a pivotal moment orchestrated by international financiers through deceptive means. M.W. Walbert's "The Coming Battle - A Complete History of the National Banking Money Power in the United States" delves into this complex and often misunderstood subject, offering a comprehensive and eye-opening account of how financial power has been wielded and abused throughout the nation's history. The book begins with a resonant quote from President Andrew Jackson: "Justice, full and ample justice, to every portion of the United States, should be the ruling principle of every freeman." These words set the stage for Walbert's exploration of the ideals that underpin American democracy and the challenges posed by the concentration of financial power. Walbert argues that the "money power," a term he uses to describe the influence of international financiers and their domestic allies, has often operated above the law, manipulating governments and economies to serve its own interests. Walbert takes readers on a journey through time, starting with the earliest civilizations where power was often synonymous with control over resources and trade. He argues that in modern times, this power has evolved into a more insidious form: the control of money and credit. This "gigantic combination of money dealers," as Walbert describes it, has exerted its influence over governments, economies and even the outcomes of wars. One of the most compelling sections of the book is its detailed account of the origins of the national banking system in the United States. Walbert revisits the late 18th century, a time when the Founding Fathers were deeply divided over the role of banks. Alexander Hamilton, with his vision of a strong central government and robust financial system, advocated for the establishment of the first Bank of the United States. Thomas Jefferson, however, vehemently opposed the idea, fearing that it would create an unelected elite with the power to control the nation's economy. Walbert meticulously documents the debates and decisions that led to the bank's creation, highlighting the warnings of Jefferson, who foresaw the potential for corruption and undue influence. Despite these concerns, the bank was chartered, setting a precedent for future financial institutions that would wield significant power over the nation's economic landscape. The book then delves into the tumultuous history of the United States Bank, chronicling its rise and fall. Walbert recounts the political battles, financial panics and public outcry that marked the bank's operations. He describes how the bank, at times, acted as a powerful adversary to the government, using its financial clout to influence elections and even oppose the government's efforts during the War of 1812. Perhaps the most alarming aspect of Walbert's account is his description of the bank's role in engineering financial distress. He cites instances where the bank deliberately contracted the currency, causing widespread economic hardship. This was not merely a byproduct of its operations but a calculated strategy to maintain its dominance and influence. As the narrative progresses, Walbert introduces the concept of the "modern money power," a term that encapsulates the increasingly centralized and international nature of financial control. He argues that this power has become so pervasive that it now "holds every civilized and semi-civilized people in its merciless grasp." This assertion resonates with many of the economic challenges faced by nations today, from income inequality to the volatility of global markets. He calls for the "dethronement" of the money power and its subordination to the will of the people. He advocates for a return to a system where the government, not private corporations, controls the issuance of currency. This, he believes, is essential for preserving American liberty and ensuring justice for all. The book also examines the controversial demonetization of silver in 1873, a decision that Walbert sees as a pivotal moment in the consolidation of the money power's control. He argues that this move, driven by international financiers and enacted through deceptive means, had devastating consequences for the American economy and the livelihoods of millions. Walbert's account of the political maneuvering and backroom deals that led to the demonetization of silver is both fascinating and disturbing. He cites testimonies from senators and representatives who claimed they were unaware of the true implications of the legislation they were voting on. This revelation underscores the power of lobbying and the potential for legislative sleight of hand. Learn more about the book "The Coming Battle" by watching the video below. This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: Brighteon.ai Brighteon.com U.S. airstrikes cut off water for 50,000 Yemenis, escalating humanitarian crisis U.S. airstrikes in Yemens Al-Hodeidah Governorate destroyed the Al-Senif water reservoir, cutting off clean water for over 50,000 civilians and worsening the humanitarian crisis. The bombing campaign intensified after Yemens Houthi-led government reimposed a maritime ban on Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea, part of their protest against Israels actions in Gaza. Previous cuts to U.S. humanitarian aid (under Trump) and legal hurdles for aid groups (due to Houthi terrorism designation) have crippled relief efforts, with organizations downsizing or leaving. At least 61 civilians have been killed and 139 injured since March 15, with human rights groups accusing the U.S. of war crimes for targeting vital civilian infrastructure. The U.N. and rights organizations demand an end to hostilities, warning of catastrophic health and humanitarian consequences if aid collapses and bombings continue. On April 2, the U.S. militarys strategic bombing in Yemens Al-Hodeidah Governorate targeted a vital water reservoir in the Mansouriya district, leaving more than 50,000 civilians without access to clean drinking water. These airstrikes, part of a broader military campaign that began on March 15, 2025, have intensified since Yemens Houthi-led government reimposed a maritime ban on Israeli-linked vessels crossing the Red Sea. This escalation, combined with previous cuts to humanitarian aid under the Trump administration, has plunged Yemen further into a crisis that many fear will spiral into catastrophe. The humanitarian crisis deepens The recent wave of U.S. airstrikes, targeting critical infrastructure in Yemen, has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation. The bombing of the Al-Senif water reservoir in Mansouriya district has left more than 50,000 civilians without access to water, a fundamental resource in a country where frequent water shortages have long plagued millions. This development has raised serious concerns among aid organizations already struggling to maintain operations due to previous cuts in U.S. humanitarian aid. Siddiq Khan, country director for Islamic Relief in Yemen, expressed his alarm at the escalating crisis. "Now the rampant bombing has started, you never know which way things will go," Khan said. He attributed the current crisis to both the Trump-era policy of massive USAID cuts and the legal hurdles faced by aid groups following the designation of Ansarallah, Yemens governing resistance movement, as a foreign terrorist organization. The impact of these cuts has been profound, with many organizations downsizing and some even closing operations. "Overall, there has been a gradual but then sharp kind of decline in humanitarian aid to Yemen," Khan explained. "I see a real catastrophe coming Yemen's way." The U.S. military has been carrying out daily bombing campaigns since March 15, following Yemens re-imposition of a maritime ban on Israeli-linked vessels. The escalation began in response to the Houthi-controlled governments decision to resume attacks on Israeli-linked ships and targets in the Red and Arabian Seas. These attacks, which began in November 2023, mirrored Yemens staunch support for Palestinians in Gaza, where Israels campaign has resulted in over 50,000 fatalities and displaced nearly two million people. The role of the U.S. military and international repercussions The U.S. claims that its military operation in Yemen is aimed at protecting its interests and ensuring the freedom of navigation, particularly in the critical Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a narrow waterway connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. However, these strategic interests come at a significant cost for Yemeni civilians, many of whom are already suffering from years of conflict, poverty and disease. The targeted destruction of a water reservoir, which could have catastrophic health implications, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly, underscores the humanitarian dimension of the campaign. "These bombings have further scared the organizations here about whether this will be the right place to stay and work," Khan emphasized. The vacuum left by the withdrawal of aid organizations could have severe consequences for the already fragile and overstressed humanitarian sector. According to Yemens Health Ministry, at least 61 civilians have been killed and 139 injured in U.S. airstrikes since March 15, further highlighting the disproportionate impact on non-combatants. The international community has reacted with concern and condemnation. Human rights organizations have accused the U.S. of committing war crimes by targeting civilian objects and water facilities, while the United Nations has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a commitment to protecting critical infrastructure. Many observers argue that the destruction of water facilities is emblematic of a broader disregard for civilian life and underscores the urgent need for a peaceful resolution. Humanitarian toll The U.S. airstrikes in Yemen, while ostensibly aimed at countering the Houthi threat to Israeli-linked vessels, have inflicted severe harm on Yemeni civilians, particularly through the destruction of essential infrastructure like water reservoirs. This latest escalation not only exacerbates an already dire humanitarian situation but also raises serious questions about the U.S.s commitment to protecting innocent lives during times of conflict. As aid organizations withdraw and the humanitarian sector faces existential challenges, the prospect of a wider catastrophe looms large. It is clear that the international community must urgently address the complex political and humanitarian dimensions of this crisis to prevent further suffering and loss of life. Sources include: TheCradle.co MiddleEastMonitor.com MiddleEastMonitor.com Tass.com Amazons last-minute TikTok bid faces skepticism as Trumps deadline looms Amazon unexpectedly bids $200 billion to acquire TikToks global operations, challenging Oracle and AppLovin. The Trump administration dismisses Amazons offer as "half-baked," favoring Oracles structured safeguards. China resists selling TikToks algorithm, complicating any deal requiring its approval. Oracle remains the frontrunner due to its alignment with White House preferences and existing TikTok partnership. TikToks fate impacts U.S.-China relations, corporate power, and millions of users and businesses. As the April 5 deadline for TikToks forced sale approaches, an unexpected contender has thrown its hat into the ring: Amazon. The retail giant has reportedly submitted a $200 billion bid to acquire TikToks global operations outright, challenging frontrunner Oracle and mobile tech firm AppLovin in a high-stakes race to secure the popular social media platform. However, the Trump administration, which has spent months structuring a deal to address national security concerns, appears unimpressed by Amazons eleventh-hour offerdismissing it as half-baked and favoring a more deliberate solution. With President Trump signaling a preference to keep TikTok operational in the U.S., the battle over its future has become a litmus test for U.S.-China relations, corporate power, and the administrations tech policy. Amazons surprise play Amazons bid, first reported by The New York Times, stunned observers with its sheer scale: an offer to buy TikToks entire global business, not just its U.S. operations. The move would require approval from both the Trump administration and Chinas government, which has resisted relinquishing control of TikToks algorithma key driver of its addictive user experience. But sources close to negotiations say the White House views Amazons proposal as poorly timed and lacking the structured safeguards it has spent months negotiating. Half-baked, one insider familiar with the discussions told The New York Post, questioning why Amazon waited until the final days before the deadline to engage. The administrations preferred framework, developed with Oracle, involves leasing TikToks algorithm from ByteDance while ensuring U.S. oversighta compromise designed to appease both Beijing and Washington. Amazons deep pockets ($100 billion in cash reserves) make it a formidable bidder, but its strained history with Trump adds another layer of complexity. Despite Amazon founder Jeff Bezos recent overturesincluding a $1 million donation to Trumps inauguration and streaming his show The Apprentice on Prime Videothe administration remains wary of handing a major social media platform to a company already under antitrust scrutiny. Oracles edge and Chinas resistance Oracle, led by Trump ally Larry Ellison, has long been seen as the frontrunner. Its existing partnership with TikTok as a cloud provider and its willingness to work within the White Houses proposed structurewhere ByteDance retains a minority stakegive it a critical advantage. China, however, remains a wildcard. Beijing has opposed a full sale of TikToks algorithm, viewing it as a strategic asset. The Trump administrations workarounda leasing arrangementmay still face resistance. The Chinese government is calling the shots, noted The New York Posts sources, emphasizing the delicate diplomacy required. Meanwhile, underdog bids persist. AppLovin, a mobile tech firm, and a consortium including Shark Tank star Kevin OLeary and ex-Dodgers owner Frank McCourt have also made offers, though neither is seen as a serious challenger. Why TikToks fate matters Beyond corporate maneuvering, TikToks future carries geopolitical weight. The app boasts 170 million U.S. users and has become a cultural and economic force, with influencers and brands relying on its reach. A ban would disrupt countless businesses, while a saleif mishandledcould escalate U.S.-China tensions. Trumps shifting stance adds intrigue. After previously threatening to ban TikTok over espionage concerns, he now appears eager to preserve it, reportedly believing its user base aided his presidential campaign. His administrations tariff hikes on China further complicate negotiations, with Beijing likely to retaliate if it perceives the TikTok deal as hostile. With just days left before the deadline, the TikTok saga remains unresolved. Amazons bold bid has injected fresh uncertainty, but the administrations clear preference for Oracles measured approach suggests the retail giant faces an uphill battle. Whether Trump extends the deadlineas hes hintedor forces a resolution, the outcome will shape the tech landscape for years to come. Sources for this article include: TheNationalPulse.com NYPost.com LATimes.com Reuters.com Doctors overprescribing antibiotics without risk assessment, fueling superbug threat, study reveals A UK study reveals doctors often prescribe antibiotics without considering patient risk factors like age or health conditions. Younger, healthier patients receive unnecessary antibiotics, while the elderly are 31% less likely to get needed treatment. Overprescription, worsened during COVID-19, accelerates antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a global threat projected to kill 39 million by 2050. Researchers call for personalized risk assessments and better doctor-patient communication to curb misuse. Superbugs like MRSA are rising, with resistance making infections harder to treat and potentially deadlier. Doctors across England are prescribing antibiotics indiscriminately, often ignoring critical risk factors such as age and underlying health conditions, according to a groundbreaking University of Manchester study of 15.7 million patient records. Published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, the research reveals that younger, healthier patientswho could recover naturallyare routinely given unnecessary antibiotics, while elderly patients who genuinely need them are 31% less likely to receive treatment. This haphazard approach, worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, is accelerating antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a global health crisis projected to claim 39 million lives by 2050. The findings confirm long-held concerns from natural health advocates about the dangers of overreliance on pharmaceutical interventions. Rather than arbitrary prescribing targets, researchers argue for personalized treatment guidelines and better shared decision-making between doctors and patientsa shift that could save lives and curb the rise of deadly superbugs. Untargeted prescriptions ignoring patient risk The study, led by epidemiologists Professor Tjeerd van Staa and Dr. Ali Fahmi, analyzed electronic health records from England between 2019 and 2023. Shockingly, they found that antibiotic prescriptions for respiratory and urinary tract infections showed little correlation with a patients actual risk of complications or hospitalization. Antibiotics are effective in treating bacterial infections, but they carry the risks of antimicrobial resistance and loss of effectiveness when used inappropriately, said Professor van Staa. That is why AMR has been recognized as one of the biggest threats to global public health. The data revealed a troubling pattern: Younger, healthier patients were frequently prescribed antibiotics for mild infections that their immune systems could handle naturally. Elderly patients, who face higher risks of severe complications, were 31% less likely to receive antibiotics for upper respiratory infections. Meanwhile, patients with multiple chronic conditions were 7% less likely to get antibiotics than healthier individuals, despite being more vulnerable. COVID-19 worsened the problem The pandemic exacerbated the issue, particularly for respiratory infections. During COVID-19, doctors were even less likely to consider complication risks before prescribing antibiotics for lower respiratory infectionsa knee-jerk response that further undermined responsible antibiotic use. This aligns with previous research, including a Tennessee study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, which found that over 50% of antibiotic prescriptions for children and teens were unnecessary. Pharmacist Phil Smith, who reviewed the findings, warned that overuse leads to resistance, forcing doctors to use stronger drugs or higher dosespotentially with deadly consequences. Rather than enforcing rigid antibiotic reduction quotas, the researchers advocate for personalized risk assessment tools and better clinician-patient communication. Prognosis and harm should explicitly be considered in treatment guidelines, alongside better personalized information for clinicians and patients to support shared decision-making, Dr. Fahmi said. A Knowledge Support System (KSS), currently being tested in North-West England, aims to provide doctors with tailored risk assessments for infections. If successful, it could revolutionize prescribing habitsensuring antibiotics go to those who truly need them. Superbugs loom as a dire public health threat The stakes couldnt be higher. A Lancet study projected that 39 million people could die from antibiotic-resistant infections by 2050 if current trends continue. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and carbapenem-resistant bacteria are already claiming lives at alarming rates. When you get resistance to antibiotics, you either have to change to different antibiotics or you have to use higher doses to get the same effect, warned Smith. And so that's a worry, because, you know, you have these standard infections that may not be able to be treated as easily in the future, which honestly can result in more people dying. The University of Manchester study underscores a dangerous disconnect in modern medicine: Doctors are prescribing antibiotics reflexively, without weighing risks, while those most in need go untreated. The consequencesrising superbugs, longer illnesses, and avoidable deathsdemand immediate action. Sources for this article include: MedicalXpress.com Manchester.ac.uk CNN.com NewsChannel9.com Former CDC Director advocates for additional MMR dose for babies, going against decades of vaccine safety recommendations Former CDC Director Rochelle Walensky is urging for an additional MMR dose for infants aged 6-11 months in high-risk areas. Even the biggest vaccine pushers do not recommend the MMR vaccine before one year of age, due to safety concerns. The push for an extra MMR dose comes despite a lack of safety data for administering the vaccine to young babies. A suspected measles case in Arizona was determined to be a rare reaction to the MMR vaccine, not an actual measles infection. Concerns are raised about the potential risks of annual MMR boosters, including serious adverse events and the mischaracterization of vaccine reactions as measles cases. The push for an extra MMR dose Former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Rochelle Walensky called for an additional MMR dose for infants aged 6-11 months, particularly in areas experiencing measles outbreaks. Walensky and her colleagues have argued in op-eds published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) and STAT News that the current immunization guidelines should be revised. They propose that infants traveling to regions with a higher probability of measles exposure, whether domestically or internationally, should receive an extra MMR dose between the ages of 6-11 months. This recommendation is based on the uptick in measles cases in the United States. Several infectious disease experts, including Dr. Mary Caserta, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the University of Rochester Medical Center, agree with Walensky's proposal. Caserta stated, "If we have data showing that theres an increased risk of measles in the United States, Im definitely in favor of reviewing our immunization guidelines to see what we can do to best protect our children." However, the push for an additional MMR dose for young babies raises significant concerns, particularly regarding the lack of safety data. Heather Ray, a science and research analyst with Childrens Health Defense (CHD), pointed out that "many people assume the MMR vaccine is safer than the measles, mumps and rubella infections," but there are "serious red flags regarding the safety and research behind the vaccine." Safety concerns and adverse events The MMR vaccine has been associated with a range of adverse events, including febrile seizures, anaphylaxis, meningitis, encephalitis, thrombocytopenia, arthralgia, and vasculitis. According to documents released by Physicians for Informed Consent, the risk of permanent disability or death from the MMR vaccine may be greater than the risk posed by the diseases it aims to prevent. This is due to the fact that vaccine safety studies have not been conducted on a large enough scale. Ray highlighted that the risk of serious adverse events following MMR vaccination is "concerning" and noted that "only a small percentage" of these events are reported in the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). As of the end of January, there have been 41 deaths reported in VAERS following MMR or MMRV vaccination since 2015. In fact, Walensky's recommendation comes on the heels of a suspected measles case in a 1-year-old child from Pima County, Arizona, that was revealed to be a reaction to the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, not an actual case of measles. This "rare" reaction would likely become more commonplace if MMR vaccines were given to infants younger than one year of age, as this has never been recommended due to the vaccine's risk of adverse events in babies with underdeveloped immune systems and low blood volume/body weight. The mischaracterization of vaccine reactions The case in Arizona highlights a troubling trend: the mischaracterization of vaccine reactions as measles cases. The Pima County Health Department acknowledged that reactions to the MMR vaccine are "rare and do not carry the same risk as community-acquired measles." However, the lack of clarity on the toddler's symptoms and the precautionary measures taken by health authorities suggest a potential overreaction to vaccine reactions. Karl Jablonowski, a senior research scientist with CHD, criticized the CDC's childhood vaccine schedule as "aggressive some would find it reckless." He emphasized that the recommendation against administering the live-virus MMR vaccine before 12 months of age is not a coincidence. "MMR is not recommended for younger than 12 months old because even the vaccine-zealous recommenders do not find the risks appropriate," Jablonowski said. Walensky acknowledged that implementing a third MMR dose would incur costs but argued that it "can be cost-effective compared with the resources required to treat infections and contain outbreaks." However, Jablonowski countered that this approach is a "knee-jerk reaction to fear" and that "the manufacturing of fear is a multi-billion-dollar-a-year industry." Dr. Peter Kasson, a professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology, emphasized the severity of measles, stating that it can "ravage the immune system and brain, causing long-term damage." While measles is indeed highly contagious, David Speicher, a molecular virologist and epidemiologist at the University of Guelph, noted that "the risk of getting that severe disease is low and the risk of transmitting or getting infected in a population where most of the population is immunized for measles is also extremely low." As the debate over the necessity of an additional MMR dose for young babies continues, it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. The case in Arizona serves as a reminder that vaccine reactions can be mistaken for actual infections, raising questions about the accuracy of diagnoses and the precautionary measures taken. Sources include: ChildrensHealthDefense.org CDC.gov ChildrensHealthDefense.org Gabbard calls Trump the Peace President despite his support of attacks on Yemen and Gaza DNI Tulsi Gabbard labeled Donald Trump the "President of Peace" for his Middle East diplomacy (e.g., Abraham Accords) and pledged to end global conflicts, contrasting him with Joe Biden. But Trump's record undermines this claim he supports U.S. airstrikes in Yemen (killing civilians) and backs Israel's assault on Gaza, which has caused mass Palestinian casualties. Once a vocal critic of U.S. involvement in Yemen, she now endorses Trump's unauthorized military actions, urging global cooperation against Houthi rebels. In 2019, Gabbard co-sponsored a War Powers Resolution to halt U.S. involvement in Yemen, which Trump vetoed; she now ignores her prior stance on congressional oversight. By legitimizing Trump's militarism, Gabbard whitewashes policies that exacerbate Middle East violence, risking broader conflict a reversal of her earlier anti-war principles. Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard has claimed that President Donald Trump is the "President of Peace" despite the 47th chief executive supporting attacks on Yemen and the Gaza Strip. "President Trump is the President of Peace," she wrote on X Saturday, March 29. "He is ending bloodshed across the world and will deliver lasting peace in the Middle East." Gabbard also pointed out that Trump will succeed where former President Joe Biden failed. However, the claim of Trump being a "peace president" easily falls apart given his support for the ongoing bombing campaign against the Houthi rebels in Yemen and for Israel's devastating military operations against the Palestinian people. The former congresswoman for Hawaii's praise appears tied to Trump's reference to "relentless diplomacy" in the Middle East, particularly the Abraham Accords. But while the accords normalized relations between Israel and some Arab states, they did nothing to address the root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Meanwhile, Trump's administration has escalated military action in Yemen. U.S. forces have conducted near-daily airstrikes against Houthi rebels in retaliation for their attacks on Red Sea shipping and Israel. These bombings carried out without congressional approval have killed at least 53 people, including women and children. (Related: Trump vows "total annihilation" of Houthis as U.S. airstrikes pound Yemen.) Moreover, Israel continues its relentless assault on Gaza with nary a word of condemnation from the U.S. president. Trump's backing of the displacement and the genocide of the Palestinians, which has left tens of thousands dead, is hardly the hallmark of a "peace president." Gabbard's sudden embrace of militarism reeks of political opportunism This is a far cry from the Gabbard who once railed against the military-industrial complex for bombing "innocent people in countries like Yemen" without congressional debate. As a Democratic congresswoman for the Aloha State, she was one of the most vocal critics of U.S. involvement in Yemen. In a 2018 interview with The Real News, she lambasted U.S. support for the conflict. "It is absolutely outrageous that the United States has continued its support for years now for Saudi Arabia's genocidal war in Yemen that has killed thousands and thousands of innocent Yemeni people and caused mass starvation," she told the outlet's Sharmini Peries at the time. Gabbard also repeatedly emphasized that U.S. participation in the war was unconstitutional without congressional authorization a principle she now ignores under Trump. In 2019, she and Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) put forward a War Powers Resolution to end U.S. involvement in Yemen. But Trump vetoed the measure, calling it "an unnecessary, dangerous attempt to weaken my constitutional authorities." Six years later, Khanna called out Trump. "Trump promised to end endless wars now he's bombing Yemen without Congressional approval," the California congressman wrote on X. "I stood up when Biden did it, and I'll stand up now." In contrast, Gabbard has not only remained silent but has actively encouraged further military escalation. During a recent interview with NDTV, she urged other nations to join the U.S. in attacking the Houthis. "Our country and other countries should not be in a position to reroute commerce going through that area simply because of the threat that exists," the DNI told the Indian news outlet. Visit BigGovernment.news for more stories like this. Watch this video about DNI Tulsi Gabbard being targeted by Deep State warmongers. This video is from the MyPodcastDropped2320 channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Trump shows his true colors. Gabbard's shocking BETRAYAL of civil liberties for DNI post: FISA Section 702 flip-flop exposed. Tulsi Gabbard laces into "warmonger" Hillary Clinton following Durham bombshell she spied on 2016 Trump campaign. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com TheRealNews.com News.Antiwar.com Brighteon.com Israel kills Hamas commander in Lebanon, escalating tensions amid fragile ceasefire Israel assassinated senior Hamas commander Hassan Farhat and his two children in Lebanon, escalating tensions under a fragile U.S.-brokered ceasefire. Lebanon and Hezbollah condemned the strike as a ceasefire violation, accusing Israel of expanding aggression. Israel is carving "security zones" in Gaza, displacing thousands and eroding Palestinian sovereignty under the guise of security. Over 50,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023, with Gaza's infrastructure collapsing amid relentless Israeli offensives. International inaction enables Israels violations, fueling regional instability while civilians bear the brunt of violence. In a predawn airstrike Friday, Israel assassinated senior Hamas commander Hassan Farhat and his two children in their Sidon, Lebanon, apartment, further straining a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that halted last years war with Hezbollah. The Israeli military claimed Farhat orchestrated a deadly rocket attack on Safed in 2024, justifying the strike as self-defense. However, Lebanons government condemned the attack as a "clear violation" of the truce, while Hezbollah warned it signals Israels intent to "expand aggression throughout Lebanon." Meanwhile, Israel is carving out so-called "security zones" in Gaza, effectively annexing swaths of Palestinian land under the guise of military necessitya move critics decry as ethnic cleansing by another name. The strike, which ignited a fire in the residential Al-Zahour neighborhood, killed Farhat, his daughter Jenan, and his son Hamza, a fellow Hamas fighter. Lebanese emergency crews pulled three charred bodies from the rubble as Hezbollah vowed retaliation, accusing Israel of exploiting ceasefire loopholes to escalate violence. "The targeting of Sidon is evidence of the enemys intention to expand the scope of its aggression," the Iran-backed group declared. But this is just the latest in Israels relentless campaign of extrajudicial killings, which has intensified since it restarted its Gaza offensive on March 18. With over 50,000 Palestinians dead since October 2023, Israel now appears determined to erase any semblance of Palestinian sovereigntywhether through airstrikes in Lebanon or land seizures in Gaza. Ceasefire in name only The November 2023 truce, designed to halt cross-border clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, is crumbling. Israel has repeatedly violated the agreement, striking Beiruts southern suburbs twice in recent weeks and now hitting Sidon, far from the traditional conflict zone. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam called for "maximum pressure" on Israel to stop "a blatant attack on Lebanese sovereignty," but Washington has consistently greenlit such operations, dismissing them as "self-defense." Hamas, meanwhile, framed Farhats killing as part of Israels "cowardly assassination policy," warning it would not deter resistance. Yet Israel shows no signs of restraint. Just hours before the Sidon strike, its military expanded its northern Gaza "security zone," bulldozing homes and forcing thousands to flee under bombardment. Gazas slow erasure In Gaza, Israel is executing a land grab disguised as counterterrorism. Troops have pushed deeper into Shejaia, a Gaza City suburb, while declaring vast areas "no-go zones"a tactic Palestinians say aims to depopulate the Strip permanently. "I swear to God, I am staying in the street. There is no shelter here," said Hemam Al-Rifi, a displaced Gazan whose family was killed in an airstrike on a school-turned-refugee camp. The Trump administration has remained conspicuously silent as Israel flouts international law. Meanwhile, Gazas health system has collapsed, clean water is scarce, and over 280,000 people have been displaced in the past two weeks alone. A pattern of excuses Israels playbook is predictable: label every victim a "terrorist," invoke self-defense, and escalate. Farhats killing follows the assassinations of Hamas officials Issam al-Daalis and Saleh al-Bardawil in Khan Yunisattacks that also killed their families. In Lebanon, Israel has repeatedly struck civilian areas, claiming Hezbollah ties while ignoring ceasefire terms. With each strike, Israel undermines its moral authority and fuels regional instability. The Sidon attack isnt just about Hamasits about testing how far Israel can go before the international community intervenes. Israels strategyeliminate enemies, seize land, and wait out global outragemay work in the short term. But history shows oppression breeds resistance. As Gaza is carved into isolated ghettos and Lebanon teeters on the brink of another war, one thing is clear: violence begets violence. Until Israel is held accountable, the cycle will continueand civilians, as always, will pay the price. Sources for this article include: Reuters.com France24.com TheCradle.co Reuters.com Israeli strikes kill over 100 Palestinians in a single day as Israel divides up Gaza Israeli airstrikes killed over 100 Palestinians in Gaza, including women and children sheltering in schools and tent camps. A U.S.-backed $24 million arms sale to Israel proceeds despite concerns over weapons reaching violent settlers. Gazas hospitals face collapse, with patients dying from treatable wounds due to shortages of supplies and attacks on medical facilities. Israels strategy to divide Gaza signals potential annexation, with far-right officials pushing for mass Palestinian expulsion. Global condemnation grows as the U.S. continues military support, while Gaza nears famine and mass displacement worsens. In a single day of relentless bombardment, Israeli airstrikes killed more than 100 Palestinians across Gaza, including women and children sheltering in schools and tent camps, as the U.S. continues to arm and fund what critics call a genocidal campaign. The attacks, which targeted displaced civilians and medical facilities, mark a grim escalation in Israels seven-month wara war enabled by Washingtons unwavering political and military support. The bloodshed on Thursday included the bombing of the Dar al-Arqam School in Gaza City, where families had sought refuge from earlier strikes. At least 29 people were killed, including 18 children, according to Gazas Government Media Office. Rescue workers scrambling to pull survivors from the rubble were met with a second strike on the same site, compounding the carnage. Meanwhile, in al-Mawasia so-called "safe zone" forcibly designated by Israela midnight strike leveled a building surrounded by tents, killing seven. As Israel carves Gaza into militarized zones, tightening its grip on Palestinian land, the Trump administration has finalized a $24 million rifle sale to Israeli forces, despite warnings that weapons could end up in the hands of violent West Bank settlers. The move underscores Americas direct complicity in a war that has now claimed over 50,000 Palestinian lives. Gazas collapsing lifelines The UN estimates that 280,000 Palestinians have been displaced since Israel shattered a fragile ceasefire on March 18, resuming a campaign that Gazas Health Ministry says has killed 1,249 people in just weeks. Hospitals, already crippled by months of siege, are now scenes of "silent death," as described by Al-Ahli Hospital staff. With no painkillers, fuel, or clean water, medics watch patients succumb to wounds that would otherwise be treatable. "Death is becoming very imminent now," said Al Jazeera correspondent Hani Mahmoud, reporting from Gaza City. "There is no guarantee this hospital wont be attacked." Israels blockade has severed food and aid shipments for a month, leaving 85% of Gazas population without basic sustenance. The World Food Programme warns its operations are "shutting down," while sewage floods streets and disease spreads. Dividing Gaza: A land grab in progress Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has openly declared Israels intent to "divide the strip," seizing key corridors like the Morag routea potential prelude to permanent annexation. Military analysts suggest the strategy aims to splinter Gaza into isolated ghettos, echoing the 2005 disengagement in reverse. The plan aligns with far-right demands to expel Palestinians entirely. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who oversees police forces receiving U.S. rifles, has aggressively armed settler militias in the West Bank, where troops killed a 17-year-old Palestinian overnight. Global condemnation, American silence While Germany and Turkey have rebuked Israels violations of international law, the U.S. remains its chief enabler. The Biden administration paused the rifle sale briefly, only for the Trump White House to fast-track it. Meanwhile, the UN Security Council convenes emergency sessions as mass graves of executed aid workers are uncovered. In Lebanon, an Israeli drone strike assassinated a Hamas official in Sidon, killing his familya violation of ceasefire terms. Yet Netanyahu, wanted by the ICC for war crimes, was welcomed in Hungary, where Prime Minister Viktor Orban pledged to withdraw from the court. As protests erupt from Amman to Baghdad, Gazas survivors dig through rubble with bare hands. "What kind of life is this?" one resident cried, cradling a childs body. With hospitals overflowing and famine looming, the question echoes across a wasteland carved by American bombs and Israeli bulldozers. Sources for this article include: News.Antiwar.com AlJazeera.com CNN.com Skepticism sheds new light on wildfire attribution: LA blaze, Chiles tragedy and the truth behind politicized science A study by World Weather Attribution (WWA) initially blamed climate change for increasing wildfire likelihood in Los Angeles by 35%. Dr. Sabine Hossenfelder debunked the claim, revealing the findings lacked statistical significance and fell within natural variability. Climate activism and media narratives often prioritize fearmongering over objective analysis. WWAs methods, dubbed "weather attribution alchemy," rely on speculative models comparing hypothetical climates, raising scientific skepticism. Research in Nature Communications shows modern wildfires in the U.S. and Canada occur at only 23% of historical rates, challenging claims of unprecedented fire activity. Activists attempt to shift focus from data to emotional impact to maintain climate crisis narratives. Chiles deadly 2024 fires were influenced by multiple factors (heatwaves, drought, wind, El Nino). WWAs attribution study admitted large uncertainties, highlighting the difficulty of linking single events to global warming. Effective wildfire mitigation requires addressing land use, urban planning and ecological managementnot just carbon emissions. Over-politicization of climate science erodes public trust and distracts from evidence-based policy. In the wake of the devastating wildfires that ripped through Los Angeles earlier this year, the scientific community was quick to point fingers toward climate change. Matt McGrath of the BBC, among others, seized upon a "scientific study" issued by World Weather Attribution (WWA), which claimed hydrocarbons were to blame for making the blaze 35% more likely. However, the narrative began to unravel when theoretical physicist and science writer Dr. Sabine Hossenfelder dissected the WWAs claims in her viral YouTube video. Hossenfelders harsh critique elicited a stunning admission from one of the report's authors: "As you can see from the numbers, the changes in intensity and likelihood are unsurprisingly not statistically significant." To understand why this matters today, we must delve into the historical context of climate change rhetoric and its intersection with extreme weather events. The politicization of climate science has led to an environment where fearmongering often overshadows objective analysis. The WWAs initial report was a clear attempt to pin the blame on hydrocarbon use, serving as a rallying cry for climate activists. However, Hossenfelders meticulous examination revealed that the figures provided by the WWA fell within a 95% statistical probability level, making it indistinguishable from natural variability. The reports lack of statistical significance raises serious questions about its conclusions and the subsequent media coverage. The limits of extreme event attribution The practice of attributing individual extreme weather events to climate change through models has come under increasing scrutiny. Dr. Roger Pielke Jr., a distinguished science writer, coined the term "weather attribution alchemy" to describe the approach used by groups like the WWA. This method involves comparing the results of two imaginary climatesone with current levels of carbon dioxide and one without human contributionsusing complex computer models. Critics argue that such approaches are inherently flawed, given the chaotic nature of the atmosphere and the myriad of unknown factors that influence weather. Dr. Otto, a frequent BBC broadcaster and key WWA figure, asserts that the primary purpose of these studies is to support climate litigation against hydrocarbon companies. Her words, captured in an interview titled "From Extreme Event Attribution to Climate Litigation," reveal a strategy driven by legal gain rather than scientific inquiry. The BBC, in its endorsement of WWAs work, has furthered this politicization, with former Radio 4 editor Sarah Sands writing a glowing foreword for a WWA guide for journalists. Pielkes less sanguine view offers a more critical perspective, suggesting that the push for event attribution studies is part of a broader effort to contest and undermine actual climate science to further the "Net Zero" agenda. Historical context: Wildfires through the ages Recent findings published in Nature Communications have added another layer of complexity to the wildfire narrative. Researchers digging through centuries of tree ring fire scar records have discovered that wildfires across the United States and Canada are occurring at a rate of only 23% of what was expected based on historical patterns. The study is a stark rebuke to the notion that climate change is driving an unprecedented spike in extreme fire events. Instead, the findings point to a "widespread fire deficit," with burn areas in the recent past being far from unprecedented. The implications of this study are profound, particularly in the face of the current narrative peddled by climate activists. One reviewer, anticipating the papers potential misuse, urged the authors to "put even more emphasis on impact rather than burned area." This call to action underscores the deliberate attempt to shift the focus from data to emotion, a tactic that has come to define climate advocacy. The politicization of climate science not only distorts public perception but also fuels the distrust that many now feel toward both the climate movement and the media that perpetuates it. Chiles deadliest wildfires and the search for clarity The recent wildfires that devastated Chile provide another case study in the complexities of attributing such events to climate change. In early February, fires tore through more than 29,000 hectares of land, destroying over 7,000 homes and claiming more than 130 lives. These fires were described by the WWA as "the deadliest since the 2009 Australia bushfires," a grim milestone that has prompted a renewed examination of their causes. The WWAs rapid attribution study acknowledged the large uncertainty involved, pointing to local cooling effects due to the "South Pacific High" and competing factors like increased dryness and wind intensity. These complexities highlight the inherent challenges of attributing specific weather events to climate change, especially in regions where climate dynamics are subject to rapid and nuanced shifts. Dr. Elizabeth Wiggins of NASA, for instance, described the Chile fires as the product of a "perfect storm" involving a heatwave, drought and high-wind event compounded by El Nino. The findings underscore the need for a more holistic approach to understanding and mitigating wildfire risks, one that moves beyond the simplistic binary of climate change or not. Separating science from politics As we grapple with the devastating impact of wildfires around the world, it is imperative that we adopt a more critical lens when evaluating the role of climate change. The politicization of climate science has not only clouded public discourse but has also undermined trust in both the media and scientific institutions. The recent studies from Los Angeles and Chile, along with the broader context provided by historical fire records, remind us that simplistic attribution of complex events to climate change does a disservice to the pursuit of meaningful solutions. The real challenge lies in understanding the intricate interplay of ecological, economic and social factors that influence wildfire risk. Public policy must address these broader issues, from sustainable land management to urban planning, rather than being captured by the narrow narrative of carbon emissions. Only through such an approach can we hope to build resilience and prevent future tragedies on the scale of those witnessed in Los Angeles and Chile. In the end, the truth behind these wildfires is far more nuanced than the soundbites and headlines would have us believe. It is a story of human interaction with the environment, one that demands a thoughtful, evidence-based response. Sources include: WattsUpWithThat.com CarbonBrief.org Microsoft scales back AI data center boom as Chinas DeepSeek upends the market Microsoft scales back AI data center construction globally, halting projects in the U.K., Australia, Indonesia, and the U.S. Chinas DeepSeek AI model disrupts the market with 40 to 50x greater efficiency than Western competitors. Analysts warn of AI infrastructure oversupply as demand softens and Chinese innovation reduces computing needs. Microsoft cancels or defers projects worth 2 gigawatts of power, equivalent to 1.5 million U.S. homes electricity demand. The AI boom faces a reality check as efficiency, not expansion, becomes the new industry benchmark. In a move signaling potential turbulence for the artificial intelligence investment frenzy, Microsoft has dramatically scaled back construction of AI data centers across the U.S., Europe, and Asiaincluding halted projects in Indonesia, the U.K., Australia, and multiple American states. The retreat, first reported by analysts at TD Cowen and later detailed by Bloomberg, comes as Chinas DeepSeek AI model emerges as a disruptive force, boasting efficiency gains 40 to 50 times greater than Western competitors. The shift raises urgent questions about whether the AI industry has overbuilt infrastructure, with Goldman Sachs analyst Rich Privorotsky warning: If you can do more with less, it naturally raises the question of whether so much capacity is necessary. The pullback marks a notable reversal for Microsoft, which had pledged $80 billion in AI infrastructure spending for 2025. Now, with demand projections softening and Chinese innovation undercutting cost assumptions, the tech giants retrenchment may foreshadow a broader reckoning for an industry banking on endless growth. A global retreat Microsofts cuts span continents. In the U.K., the company abandoned negotiations to lease space near Cambridge for a facility designed to host advanced Nvidia chips. Similar talks collapsed near Chicago, while construction paused outside Jakarta and in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsina site once championed by former president Joe Biden. TD Cowen estimates Microsoft walked away from projects representing 2 gigawatts of power capacity, equivalent to the annual electricity demand of 1.5 million U.S. homes. We continue to believe the lease cancellations and deferrals point to data center oversupply relative to its current demand forecast, analyst Michael Elias wrote in a client note. The slowdown isnt isolated: Google and Meta are reportedly absorbing some abandoned capacity, but even their spending faces scrutiny as investors question AIs near-term profitability. The DeepSeek disruption The unspoken catalyst for Microsofts retreat may be Beijing-based DeepSeek. Since its January debut, the model has upended industry assumptions with claims of 40 to 50x greater efficiency than rivals like OpenAIs ChatGPT. Privorotsky of Goldman Sachs flagged the implications: if AI workloads require far less computing power, the justification for sprawling data center networks weakens. The efficiency gap threatens to accelerate peak AI capacitythe point at which demand plateausyears ahead of Goldmans late-2026 estimate. Meanwhile, Western tech firms face mounting pressure to justify billions in spending while Chinese rivals advance with leaner infrastructure. Microsofts stock dipped 1% on the news, echoing broader tech sector unease. The AI boom, fueled by hype and speculative investment, now confronts a reality check. CoreWeave, a cloud startup reliant on AI contracts, scrambled to deny rumors of Microsoft canceling agreements, but the markets jitters persist. While Microsoft insists its $80 billion annual AI budget remains intact, the strategic pauses suggest recalibration. A spokesperson said although the company may "strategically pace or adjust our infrastructure in some areas, we will continue to grow strongly in all regions". Skeptics see a deflection. As TD Cowens notes underscore, the math is changing: when competitors achieve more with less, overbuilding becomes a liability. Microsofts retreat underscores a pivotal moment for AI. The industry, once racing to outbuild rivals, now faces a disruptive truth: efficiency, not sheer scale, may dictate winners. With Chinas DeepSeek resetting cost benchmarks and demand timelines tightening, the data center gold rush looks increasingly precarious. For investors, the question isnt just about Microsoftits whether the AI bubble has met its first major leak. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com Futurism.com Reuters.com New natural gas-powered AI data center unveiled in Pennsylvania A former coal-fired power plant in Homer City, Pennsylvania, will be replaced by a 10 billion natural gas-powered data center campus, set to become the largest in the U.S. and operational by 2027. The project will generate up to 4.5 gigawatts of electricity, helping to counter the Mid-Atlantics impending energy shortfall as aging grid infrastructure retires. Expected to create over 10,000 construction jobs and 1,000 permanent high-paying roles, the project aims to revitalize the local economy and support national energy independence. While natural gas offers a reliable energy source for AI and high-performance computing, environmental concerns persist over frackings impact, including water contamination and greenhouse gas emissions. The project highlights the tension between economic growth and environmental protection, with stakeholders urged to carefully manage resource extraction (e.g., lithium from fracking wastewater) and long-term sustainability. On the site of Pennsylvanias largest former coal-fired power plant, which was decommissioned last year, a groundbreaking $10 billion project promises to transform the region into a powerhouse of artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. The new Homer City Energy Campus, scheduled to begin construction this year and be operational by 2027, will bring up to 4.5 gigawatts of natural gas-powered electricity to the area. Spearheaded by Homer City Redevelopment and Kiewit Power Constructors Co., this ambitious venture is poised to address the nations growing energy crisis, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region, where nearly a fifth of the electrical grid is expected to retire by 2030. The project also promises to recharge the local economy, creating thousands of jobs and bolstering national energy independence. But as industry giants look to natural gas for energy and lithium supplies, environmental activists and policy experts are raising concerns about the environmental trade-offs. A bold reimagining for Homer City Homer City, Pennsylvania, once home to one of the countrys largest coal-fired power plants, is poised for a massive transformation. The demolition of the former Homer City Generating Station last month has made way for what is expected to be the largest natural gas-powered data center campus in the United States. The $10 billion project, announced by Homer City Redevelopment (HCR) and Kiewit Power Constructors Co., will cover 3,200 acres, strategically located 50 miles east of Pittsburgh and within 300 miles of major metropolitan areas like New York and Washington, D.C. William Wexler, president and CEO of HCR, emphasized the significance of this redevelopment: This project will honor Homer Citys place in the proud history of Pennsylvania energy generation, while accelerating the state and local communitys ability to meet the needs of a rapidly shifting energy landscape. He added, We are committed to ensuring that this transformation happens quickly and efficiently, working alongside our partners to capitalize on this unprecedented economic opportunity." The project is not just about infrastructure but also about meeting the energy demands of the future. The Mid-Atlantic region faces a significant energy shortfall, with more than one-fifth of the PJM systems capacity expected to retire or reach the end of its useful life by the end of the decade. The new data center campus is expected to supply enough power for thousands of homes and multiple large data center customers, making it a critical player in the push for energy resilience. Fossil fuels and the energy transition As the demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) surges, the need for reliable power sources becomes increasingly critical. In the current technological landscape, fossil fuels, particularly natural gas, remain the most dependable sources capable of meeting the high consumption requirements of AI and HPC systems. The new campus will be powered by natural gas produced in the Marcellus Shale region, a major natural gas formation that spans Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio and New York. Despite the promise of renewable energy sources like wind and solar, experts note that fossil fuels still provide the most consistent and scalable power in the short term. "While the push for renewable energy is commendable, the reality is that we need a balanced approach," said Robert Charette, author of "The EV Transition Explained." "Fossil fuels can provide the base load power that renewables often cannot, especially during peak demand periods." The reliance on natural gas, however, comes with its own set of challenges. Environmental groups are concerned about the environmental impact of hydraulic fracturing (fracking), a process often used to extract natural gas from shale formations like the Marcellus Shale. "We need to consider the broader environmental implications, including water contamination and greenhouse gas emissions," said an unnamed environmental activist. "While natural gas may offer a cleaner alternative to coal, it is not without its drawbacks." Economic and environmental trade-offs The economic benefits of the new data center campus are significant. The project is expected to create more than 10,000 construction-related jobs and approximately 1,000 permanent high-paying positions in technology, operations and energy infrastructure. Senator Joe Pittman, R-Indiana, hailed the news, calling it "historic and exciting. This $10 billion capital investment will bring much-needed economic growth to the region and secure a brighter future for generations to come." However, the economic opportunities come at a cost. The extraction of natural gas and lithium through fracking raises concerns about environmental sustainability and human health. "The pursuit of these resources is essential for energy independence, but it cannot come at the expense of our environment," said an environmental analyst at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. "We need to carefully balance economic growth with environmental protection." Moreover, the competition for lithium supplies further complicates the picture. A study by the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) suggests that wastewater from the Marcellus Shale could supply up to 40% of U.S. lithium needs, a critical component in powering electric vehicles and advanced electronics. However, the same process of fracking that extracts natural gas also contributes to the extraction of lithium, raising questions about the environmental and economic trade-offs. Looking ahead: A shifting energy landscape As the Homer City Energy Campus moves forward, it signals a shift in how we approach energy production and consumption. While natural gas provides a vital link between the current energy infrastructure and the future of AI and HPC, its role in the broader energy transition remains uncertain. The projects developers, along with policymakers and industry leaders, must carefully navigate the complex interplay between economic growth and environmental protection. William Wexlers optimism is shared by many: "This project is not just about building a data center; its about reimagining how we generate and use energy." As the region moves toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future, the Homer City Energy Campus will play a crucial role in ensuring that the needs of today are met without compromising the needs of tomorrow. The transformation of the former Homer City Generating Station into the nations largest natural gas-powered data center campus is a bold step in the energy transition. While it promises to address growing energy demands and stimulate economic growth, it also highlights the complex trade-offs between energy production, environmental sustainability and national security. As the project progresses, stakeholders will need to carefully balance these competing priorities to ensure that the benefits of the new campus extend far into the future. Sources include: JustTheNews.com TheCenterSquare.com Patch.com Jim Marrs Rule by Secrecy unravels the hidden forces shaping global power Jim Marrs' "Rule by Secrecy" argues that modern history is shaped by covert elites secret societies, globalist groups (e.g., Trilateral Commission, CFR, Bilderberg) and dynastic banking families rather than by chance or democratic processes. The book highlights how groups like the Trilateral Commission and CFR blur public and private agendas, with members often holding high government positions, raising concerns about unelected influence over global policy. Marrs traces power to banking dynasties (e.g., Rothschilds, Morgans) and pivotal events like the secret 1913 creation of the Federal Reserve, framing them as tools to monopolize economic systems. The work links Freemasons, Templars and ancient civilizations to theories of hidden advanced knowledge (or extraterrestrial contact), challenging mainstream historical and scientific narratives. Marrs warns of rising authoritarianism through centralized currencies, surveillance and eroded sovereignty, urging skepticism toward official narratives and advocating transparency as a counter to entrenched power. In a world where official narratives dominate headlines, journalist Jim Marrs' "Rule by Secrecy: The Hidden History That Connects the Trilateral Commission, the Freemasons and the Great Pyramids" challenges readers to question who truly controls the levers of power. The book, a deep dive into clandestine organizations, historical cover-ups, and financial elites, argues that much of modern history has been shaped not by chance but by deliberate, covert design. From secret societies to globalist think tanks, Marrs weaves a provocative tapestry of hidden influence one that mainstream discourse often dismisses as conspiracy. But as history has shown, yesterday's fringe theories sometimes become today's undeniable truths. Marrs posits that secrecy is the common thread binding governments, corporations and religious institutions throughout history. While some concealment may be benign, he warns that malevolent conspiracies such as suppressing medical cures or engineering wars thrive in the shadows. "Knowledge is power, and those who control the secrets hold the power," Marrs writes. This premise drives his investigation into organizations like the Trilateral Commission, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) and the Bilderberg Group, which he alleges operate as unelected arbiters of global policy. Founded in 1973, the Trilateral Commission is framed by Marrs as more than a diplomatic forum. Its roster filled with corporate leaders, politicians, and academics from North America, Europe and Japan suggests a coordinated effort to steer international affairs. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and multiple cabinet members were members, raising questions about the group's sway over national sovereignty. Similarly, the CFR, established in 1921, has seen its members occupy pivotal roles in government, from secretaries of state to Central Intelligence Agency directors. Marrs contends such overlap blurs the line between public service and private agenda. The Bilderberg Group an annual invitation-only gathering of political, financial and media elites receives particular scrutiny. Despite high-profile attendees, its closed-door meetings yield no public records a lack of transparency that fuels suspicions of backroom deal-making. Marrs notes that while journalists attend, little is reported, leaving the public in the dark about discussions that may shape economic and geopolitical strategies. Marrs traces modern power structures to dynastic banking families like the Rothschilds and Morgans. He argues that their fortunes were built on monopolizing credit and influencing governments. The creation of the Federal Reserve in 1913, orchestrated during a secret meeting on Jekyll Island, is presented as a pivotal moment in consolidating financial control. Beyond finance, "Rule by Secrecy" delves into esoteric history, linking groups like the Freemasons and Knights Templar to suppressed ancient knowledge. Marrs speculates that these societies guard truths about advanced civilizations or even extraterrestrial contact revelations that could upend religious and scientific orthodoxy. Such theories, while controversial, reflect his broader theme: What is deemed "fringe" may hold kernels of unsettling reality. The book culminates with a warning about the so-called New World Order a hypothesized global regime eroding national borders and individual freedoms. Marrs cites the rise of multinational corporations, centralized currencies and surveillance states as evidence of this creeping authoritarianism. "Rule by Secrecy" does not claim to have all the answers, but it urges readers to scrutinize the narratives fed to them. In an era of misinformation and institutional distrust, Marrs work resonates with those skeptical of official stories. Whether one accepts his conclusions or not, the book underscores a timeless adage: power thrives in darkness, and sunlight remains the best disinfectant. As debates over transparency and governance intensify, "Rule by Secrecy" serves as a provocative primer on the forces that may be pulling the strings and why questioning them is not paranoia, but prudence. Watch this video about Jim Marrs' book "Rule by Secrecy: The Hidden History That Connects the Trilateral Commission, the Freemasons, and the Great Pyramids." This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: Brighteon.ai Brighteon.com Florida skies contaminated: Shocking levels of aluminum, mercury, and lead found in atmospheric fallout Independent tests by Mike Adams and Dr. Jane Ruby reveal alarming levels of heavy metals (aluminum, lead, cadmium, mercury) and unnatural biological structures in airborne deposits. Microscopy shows bizarre blue filaments, egg-like biomasses, and microchip-like crystalsunlike natural debrissuggesting intentional aerosol dispersal, possibly linked to geoengineering or bioweapons. Metals pose severe threats: neurological damage, cancer, soil contamination, and ecosystem collapse. Aluminum levels (5.5M ppb) far exceed natural occurrence, hinting at deliberate environmental poisoning. Despite evidence, agencies remain silent. Adams calls for Florida officials (e.g., Surgeon General Ladapo) to investigate, while RFK Jr.s team reviews the data for potential action. Recommendations include HEPA air filters, rigorous water testing, organic food sourcing, and political pressure to demand transparency on atmospheric programs. Public awareness is critical. In a groundbreaking investigation, independent journalist Mike Adams, founder of Natural News and Brighteon.com, alongside medical analyst Dr. Jane Ruby, has uncovered alarming evidence of toxic heavy metals and mysterious biological structures falling from the skies over Florida. Lab tests conducted at Adams ISO 17025-accredited CWC Labs reveal dangerously high concentrations of aluminum, mercury, lead, and cadmiumsubstances linked to severe health risksdeposited via chemtrails and fog events. The Findings: A Toxic Cocktail from the Sky The investigation began when Dr. Ruby observed an unusual buildup of residue on greenhouse tarps in central Florida, just north of West Palm Beach. Over six months, the plastic sheeting accumulated a dense layer of particulate matter, which was then sent to Adams lab for microscopic and chemical analysis. Using advanced microscopy at 2,000x magnification, Adams documented bizarre blue-colored filaments, egg-like biomasses, and crystalline structures resembling microchipsnone of which occur naturally in such forms. These are not pollen grains or ordinary environmental debris, Adams stated. The repeated presence of blue pigments and geometric patterns suggests engineered materials, possibly for aerosol dispersal. The real shock came from ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) testing, which detected: Aluminum: 5.5 million parts per billion (ppb) Lead: 19,000 ppb (far exceeding safety thresholds) Cadmium: 37,000 ppb (a known carcinogen) Mercury: 20 ppb (highly neurotoxic even at low levels) Adams emphasized that these metalsparticularly aluminum at such extreme levelsdo not originate from natural sources like ocean spray or soil dust. This is consistent with geoengineering programs deliberately aerosolizing metals, he said. Geoengineering or Bioweapon? The discovery raises urgent questions about the intent behind these emissions. Aluminum, a key component in stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) proposals for solar radiation management, aligns with long-standing claims by researchers like Dane Wigington of Geoengineering Watch. However, the presence of mercury and leadmetals with no legitimate atmospheric purposepoints to darker possibilities. Dr. Ruby noted parallels to historical U.S. bioweapon experiments, citing declassified programs like Operation Sea Spray (1950) and Operation Big Buzz (1955), where pathogens were tested on civilians. The diploid egg-like structures under microscopy could be microbial or fungal payloads, she warned. Combined with heavy metals, this resembles a dual-phase attack: environmental poisoning and biological infiltration. Public Health and Agricultural Implications The fallout poses dire risks: Human Health: Chronic exposure to these metals can cause neurological damage, kidney failure, and cancer. Mercury alone disrupts fetal development. Agriculture: Aluminum-contaminated soil becomes alkaline, crippling crop nutrient uptake. Adams called it a famine weapon targeting food security. Ecosystem Collapse: The metals persistence in water and soil threatens biodiversity, with Floridas bird populations already in decline. Government Silence and Calls for Action Despite the evidence, federal agencies have remained silent. Adams challenged Florida officials, including Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, to investigate: Governor DeSantis children are breathing this too. This demands immediate transparency. RFK Jr.s administration has reportedly expressed interest, with an HHS official reviewing the data. Adams pledged to donate further lab resources for expanded testing. A Pattern of Poisoning The findings echo prior whistleblower accounts. Clifford Carnicom, a researcher on chemtrails and Morgellons disease, has long warned of airborne polymers and metals. Meanwhile, NOAA documents admit to ongoing atmospheric dispersion programs under the guise of climate intervention. This isnt conspiracyits chemistry, Adams asserted. Either were witnessing criminal negligence or intentional poisoning. Both require accountability. How to Protect Yourself Adams and Ruby advise: Air Filtration: Use HEPA or ionizing purifiers to reduce airborne particulates. Water Testing: Heavy metals bioaccumulate; filter drinking water rigorously. Food Sources: Prioritize lab-tested organic produce (e.g., HealthRangerStore.com). Political Pressure: Demand independent audits of atmospheric programs. Conclusion: A Call to Awaken As Floridas skies rain toxins, the investigation underscores a chilling reality: the environment itself may be weaponized. With RFK Jr.s team reviewing the data and public outrage mounting, this could be the tipping point for a long-overdue reckoning. Watch the full episode of the "Health Ranger Report" with Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, and Dr. Jane Ruby as they talk about microscopic observations and egg-like structures found in fog samples. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Exclusive: Microscopic analysis suggests unknown biological contaminants falling from the sky Mysterious chemical fog sweeps across U.S., sparking bioweapon fears and health concerns Aerosolized bioweapons? Strange diploid biomasses falling out of the sky in Florida captured under the microscope Sources include: Brighteon.com Tesla unveils enhanced Optimus robot, now walks better than Joe Biden! Teslas humanoid robot, Optimus, has achieved significant advancements in dexterity, balance and natural walking surpassing some human capabilities thanks to reinforcement learning (RL) in simulated environments. A video shared by Elon Musk compares Optimuss early unsteady movements (2021) to its current fluid, human-like gait, showcasing rapid improvement through RL training. Tesla plans to deploy 10,000 12,000 Optimus units by 2025, with mass production underway at its Fremont factory. The robots are expected to be commercially available by 2026 for industrial and domestic tasks. Optimus is designed for diverse roles, from factory assembly to household chores (e.g., lawn mowing, cleaning), with self-charging and adaptive learning capabilities. Optimus represents a milestone in robotics, bridging sci-fi and reality. Analysts and attendees highlight its human-like movements and potential to revolutionize industries like manufacturing and elderly care. In a stunning technological leap, Tesla has unveiled major advancements in its humanoid robot, Optimus, showcasing improved dexterity, balance and natural walking abilities that surpass even some human counterparts. Tesla CEO Elon Musk took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share a video highlighting the robots impressive progression, from its first tentative steps in 2021 to its current fluid and confident gait. As Tesla ramps up production, the company expects to deploy a legion of Optimus robots by the end of 2025, with 10,000 to 12,000 units ready by then. Walking with confidence: Optimus on the move Elon Musks recent X post featured a how it started versus how its going video, juxtaposing Optimus initial, somewhat unsteady movements from 2021 with its current seamless walking patterns. The robot now exhibits a smoother heel-to-toe gait, balanced posture with straight knees and natural arm sway, all of which have been developed through advanced reinforcement learning (RL) in a simulated environment. The comparison to human walking is striking, with one X user humorously remarking, It walks better than Joe Biden! Musk himself commented positively, The rate of improvement is indeed rapid. The key to enhanced robotics Teslas breakthrough with Optimus lies in its use of Reinforcement Learning (RL) in a simulated environment. This approach allows the robot to learn through trial and error, iterating through thousands of virtual scenarios to perfect its movements. Milan Kovac, an engineer at Tesla, emphasized this in a post, noting that the robots walking abilities were entirely trained in simulation with RL. This method offers numerous advantages over traditional programming, as it allows for rapid iteration, cost-effectiveness and the learning of complex behaviors like walking that are challenging to manually program. The RL process involves setting up a virtual environment where the robots digital counterpart tests different movements and receives feedback in the form of rewards or penalties. Over time, the robot refines its strategy to maximize rewards, effectively learning to walk naturally without the need for physical trial and error. This not only speeds up the learning process but also ensures that the robot can safely navigate and interact with its environment without risking damage. From prototype to production: The Optimus odyssey Optimus was first introduced by Elon Musk in September 2021. Since then, the robot has undergone significant improvements, with its capabilities evolving from a stationary prototype to a fully functional walking machine. At Teslas AI Day 2022, a real Optimus robot took the stage, demonstrating remarkable advancements in bipedal locomotion. Now, as production begins at Teslas Fremont factory, the company is on track to meet its ambitious goal of deploying 10,000 to 12,000 Optimus units by 2025. Tesla plans to make these robots available for sale by 2026, with initial applications in factories and homes for tasks such as assembly work, lawn mowing and kitchen cleaning. Teslas journey with Optimus reflects a broader trend in the robotics industry. As companies like Boston Dynamics and Agility Robotics push the boundaries of humanoid robotics, the development of versatile, self-sufficient robots becomes increasingly feasible. Optimuss ability to self-charge and adapt to various tasks through learning positions it as a versatile tool for both industrial and domestic use. A glimpse into the future: Optimus and beyond The unveiling of Optimus marks a significant milestone in the evolution of robotics, bridging the gap between science fiction and reality. While Musks vision of an army of autonomous robots may evoke futuristic scenarios, it also promises practical solutions to everyday challenges. From enhancing manufacturing efficiency to assisting in household chores, Optimus represents a step toward a future where robots play a more integrated role in human life. Attendees at Teslas recent showcase were particularly impressed by the robots advancements. Nancy Tengler, CEO of Laffer Tengler Investments, remarked, Optimus stole the show in my view. Optimus paraded in and danced and looked remarkably human. Similarly, Wedbush analyst Dan Ives noted, The soiree was a glimpse of the future, highlighting Optimus as a tangible example of how robots can adapt to the world of humans. As Tesla continues to refine Optimuss capabilities, the potential impacts on industries and daily life are vast. Whether its improving workplace efficiency or providing assistance in elderly care, the possibilities are endless. While concerns about the long-term implications of advanced robotics and artificial intelligence remain, the immediate reality is one of remarkable progress and innovation. Teslas Optimus robot, with its enhanced walking abilities and versatile capabilities, stands as a testament to the rapid advancements in robotics and AI. As Musk hinted, upgrading robots is now a reality, and the future is already here, walking right alongside humans. Sources include: 100percentfedup.com TimesofIndia.com Trump administration to announce TikTok decision before deadline, Vance says The Trump administration will announce its TikTok decision before Saturdays deadline, aiming to sever ties with Chinese parent ByteDance. Major U.S. firms like Amazon and private equity groups are competing to acquire TikToks U.S. operations. National security concerns over Chinese data access drive urgency, with strict safeguards proposed in the deal. The decision is a test of U.S. resolve against Chinas tech influence, balancing security and political pragmatism. Trump supports keeping TikTok operational, citing its cultural and strategic value, but insists on American control. The Trump administration will announce its decision on the future of TikToks U.S. ownership before Saturdays deadline, Vice President JD Vance confirmed Thursday, signaling a decisive move to address long-standing national security concerns over the apps ties to China. With major American firms like Amazon and private equity groups vying for control of the platform, the administration is pushing to finalize a deal that severs TikTok from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance a challenge previous administrations failed to resolve. Speaking at the American Dynamism Summit in Washington, Vance emphasized the administrations commitment to protecting American data from foreign adversaries while keeping the popular app operational. Itll come out before the deadline, Vance told Fox News, adding that officials are working to finalize some things before President Trump makes the final announcement. The White House has left the door open for an extension if needed, but Vance stressed that the administration is in a good place to meet its goal. A competitive race for TikTok The deadline, set for April 5, stems from bipartisan legislation signed by President Joe Biden requiring ByteDance to divest TikToks U.S. operations or face a ban. Since taking office, Trump has delayed enforcement to negotiate a sale, sparking a flurry of bids from U.S. investors. Amazon, Oracle, and a consortium led by OnlyFans founder Tim Stokely are among the contenders, with private equity giants like Blackstone and Silver Lake also in the mix. Amazons last-minute offer, however, is not under serious consideration, according to sources familiar with the talks. The administration has instead focused on a complex ownership structure involving multiple investors to dilute ByteDances influence. Weve cooked up this very complex new ownership group, one insider said, describing a proposal that includes strict safeguards against Chinese access to user data or algorithms. Security concerns drive urgency The push to decouple TikTok from China reflects bipartisan alarm over Beijings potential access to the data of 170 million American users. While TikTok denies sharing information with the Chinese government, U.S. intelligence officials warn the app remains a propaganda and surveillance tool. The Trump administrations hardline stance marks a sharp contrast to the delays and legal battles that plagued earlier efforts to regulate the platform. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated Trumps flexibility, noting the president reserves the right for an extension if necessary to secure the best deal. But Vance, who has spearheaded the negotiations, has made clear his preference for a timely resolution. The outlines of this thing will be very clear, he told NBC News last month. The question is whether we can get all the paper done. A test of resolve against China The TikTok decision is more than a business transaction its a litmus test for U.S. resolve in countering Chinas technological influence. President Xi Jinping has opposed relinquishing control of TikToks algorithm, a hurdle that stalled past deals. Yet Trump, who once sought to ban the app, now sees its political value, crediting TikTok with boosting his 2024 youth outreach. Id like to see TikTok remain alive, Trump told reporters Sunday, acknowledging the apps cultural and strategic significance. His administrations approachbalancing security, economic interests, and political pragmatismcould set a precedent for future tech disputes with Beijing. As the clock ticks toward Saturdays deadline, the Trump administration is poised to deliver a landmark decision on TikTok, one that could redefine U.S. tech sovereignty. Whether through a sale, partnership, or temporary extension, the outcome will underscore Washingtons growing willingness to confront China where past leaders hesitated. Sources for this article include: Reuters.com CNN.com NBCNews.com Due to scheduled maintenance from Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 10 PM to Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 2 AM, there may be interruptions for our News Gazette Digital subscribers. During this time frame, please click on any News Gazette website content without logging into your News Gazette Digital subscription account. Thank you for your patience during this scheduled maintenance. Download Now The News-Gazette mobile app brings you the latest local breaking news, updates, and more. Read the News-Gazette on your mobile device just as it appears in print. Retired people who habitually exercise are more able to fight the impacts of mental fatigue, new research suggests. In a paper published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, a team of researchers from the University of Birmingham and the University of Extremadura in Spain worked with groups of adults to find out whether age would increase, and regular exercise would decrease the impact of mental fatigue on a series of cognitive and physical performance tests. In the first study, sedentary men between 65 and 79 performed worse in cognitive and physical tests compared to 52-64 year olds, with these impairments greater when they were tested in a state of mental fatigue. A second study with retired men and women aged 66-72 found that performance when mentally rested and fatigued was better in the physically active older adults than their sedentary peers. This study shows how important physical activity is for adults as they get older, and in general for avoiding the worst impacts of mental fatigue on cognitive and physical performance. This research from our ongoing international collaborative venture confirms that regular physical activity has a host of benefits, with increased physical fitness associated with improved cognition, increased exercise capacity, and greater mental fatigue resilience. For older adults in particular, regular exercise represents a simple but effective means to stave off the effects of age in a host of areas, including avoiding the negative effects of feeling mental fatigued after a particularly taxing task." Professor Chris Ring from the University of Birmingham and corresponding author of the study The research team also noted that the research confirmed that mental fatigue impaired performance in older adults and showed that performance when in states of fatigue and relaxation were worsened by aging and inactivity". Professor Ring suggests the following three active steps can be taken by older adults wishing to perform better in demanding situations: "First, people can increase their levels of regular physical activity. "Second, people can warmup using a combination of cognitive and physical tasks to better prepare them for upcoming physical performance overcome, especially when feeling mentally fatigued. "Third, people can train using a combination of cognitive and exercise tasks a method called Brain Endurance Training or BET to improve their mental fatigue resilience and enhance their physical performance". Knocking out a single gene reprograms part of the large intestine to function like the nutrient-absorbing small intestine. In a preclinical study, Weill Cornell Medicine investigators showed that the technique reversed the malnutrition that results when most of the small intestine is removed. The successful demonstration suggests that a similar strategy could be used to treat short bowel syndrome, a life-threatening disorder that can occur when very little of the small intestine remains after surgery to address chronic inflammation, cancer, trauma or congenital conditions. Because the small intestine is the principal nutrient absorber in the gastrointestinal system-the large intestine, or colon, mostly absorbs water-patients with short bowel syndrome may need to receive all their nutrition intravenously. In the new study, published Apr. 3 in Gastroenterology, the investigators showed that in a preclinical model of short bowel syndrome, deleting the colon gene SATB2 prompts cells of the upper colon to change their identity to small intestine-like cells, restoring nutrient absorption and reversing weight loss. "Our demonstration may help pave the way for a future gene therapy for short bowel syndrome," said study senior author Dr. Xiaofeng Steve Huang, an assistant professor of molecular biology research in medicine and a member of the Hartman Institute for Therapeutic Organ Regeneration at Weill Cornell Medicine. The study's co-first authors were postdoctoral associate Dr. Tao Liu, and Dr. Shiri Li, a research associate in Dr. Alessio Pigazzi's laboratory. During the study, Drs. Liu and Huang, who are also co-corresponding authors of the paper, were members of the laboratory of Dr. Qiao Zhou, professor of regenerative medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, who helped initiate and guide the study and passed away in June 2024. Drs. Zhou and Huang and their colleagues discovered SATB2's key role in maintaining colon cells' "identity" in research published in 2021. They found that deleting this gene either in mouse or human colon cells causes the cells to start functioning like cells of the lowest portion of the small intestine, called the ileum, which normally is adjacent to the upper colon. In the new study, they tested whether deleting the gene could improve nutrient absorption in preclinical models of short bowel syndrome-which affects an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 people in the United States. They found that mice that lost the gene quickly recovered their normal weights, and 4 of 5 survived for longer than 60 days-in contrast to the control mice that retained the gene, which had only 10% survival at 60 days. The investigators found that the tissue structure and the presence of blood and lymph vessels in the upper colons of the treated mice resembled that found in ileal tissue and supported ileum-like nutrient absorption. Moving a further step toward human gene therapy, the researchers tested their strategy in small, organ-like tissue clumps called "organoids," which were derived from human colon cells. They used an adenovirus-associated virus (AAV) to deliver a gene editor for deleting SATB2 andshowed that the treated colon organoids became ileum-like and were able to survive when transplanted into mice. The team is continuing to develop their therapeutic strategy, and plan to test it on more advanced preclinical models of short bowel syndrome in the future, Dr. Huang said. A shingles shot may do more than prevent rash it could help shield the aging brain from dementia, according to a landmark study using real-world data from the UK. Study: A natural experiment on the effect of herpes zoster vaccination on dementia. Image Credit: Kitsawet Saethao / Shutterstock A routine vaccine could offer more than protection from varicella-zoster virus it could help delay or prevent dementia, according to a robust natural experiment conducted by Stanford researchers and published in the journal Nature. In a recent study, a research team at Stanford University reported that the herpes zoster (shingles) vaccine may lower the risk of developing dementia, offering a potential new tool in the fight against cognitive decline. Link between herpesviruses and dementia For years, scientists have explored potential links between neurotropic herpesviruses and dementia. Some evidence suggests that infections caused by these viruses may contribute to neurodegeneration. While vaccination is commonly used to prevent infections, emerging research indicates that vaccines, especially live-attenuated ones, can have broader effects on the immune system, sometimes influencing conditions unrelated to the targeted disease. However, previous studies examining the relationship between vaccines and dementia have struggled with a key challenge distinguishing correlation from causation. Many have simply compared dementia rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, but this approach is prone to bias. Furthermore, factors such as personal health awareness, access to healthcare, and even cognitive ability can influence whether someone gets vaccinated, making it difficult to isolate the true effect of the vaccine. About the study Vaccination timing mattered: Adults immunized earlier within the eligibility window saw slightly stronger dementia risk reductions, suggesting timely vaccination amplifies benefits. In the present study, the researchers utilized the vaccine eligibility rules in Wales, United Kingdom (U.K.), to evaluate the impact of the herpes zoster vaccine on dementia risk. In the U.K., the eligibility for the herpes zoster vaccine was determined solely by birth date. Those born on or after September 2, 1933, were eligible to receive the vaccine, while those born just before this date were not. This provided the researchers with a unique opportunity to study the vaccines effect on dementia risk, as individuals born just a few weeks apart are unlikely to differ in any meaningful way in other aspects of life, except for their access to the vaccine. This rare policy feature enabled researchers to apply a regression discontinuity design, simulating a natural experiment that is highly resistant to confounding. The authors also confirmed their findings using a difference-in-differences instrumental variable (DID-IV) approach, further reinforcing the robustness of their causal claims. By analyzing large-scale electronic health records, the researchers could compare the long-term dementia risk between these two groups while minimizing confounding factors. The findings were corroborated in a secondary analysis of dementia-related deaths across England and Wales, further strengthening the causal inference. The study used regression discontinuity design, a statistical technique for determining causal relationships, and analyzed data from a seven-year follow-up period. Major findings No double benefit for high-risk groups: The vaccines effect on dementia didnt differ for those with diabetes or heart disease, surprising researchers who expected stronger protection in these populations. The study found that receiving the herpes zoster vaccine was associated with a 3.5 percentage point reduction in dementia diagnoses over seven years, which translates to a 20% relative decrease. This estimate accounts for the fact that not all individuals who were eligible actually received the vaccine. The protective effect was stronger in women, reaching statistical significance, while the findings in men were inconclusive due to wider confidence intervals. To confirm their findings, the researchers conducted a separate analysis using death certificate data. This secondary analysis supported their initial conclusions, showing that eligibility for the herpes zoster vaccine reduced dementia-related deaths by approximately 5% over nine years. Beyond dementia, the study also confirmed that the vaccine significantly reduced the occurrence of shingles, consistent with clinical trial data. However, the observed reduction in dementia risk could not be fully explained by a decrease in shingles cases alone, suggesting that other mechanisms might be at play. Notably, the reduction in dementia incidence only became evident more than one year post-vaccination, supporting theories of long-term immune modulation. The researchers explored several potential explanations for the vaccines apparent protective effect. One hypothesis was that the vaccine helps suppress reactivations of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles. Some studies have suggested that such viral reactivations may contribute to neuroinflammation, a key factor in dementia development. Hospitalizations dropped: Beyond dementia, vaccinated adults had 12% fewer hospitalizations for respiratory infectionsa potential clue to the vaccines broader immune effects. Another potential mechanism suggested a broader immune-modulating effect of the vaccine. Live-attenuated vaccines, like the herpes zoster vaccine, can stimulate the immune system in ways that extend beyond their primary target. This immune boost may help the body combat other infections or neuroinflammatory processes linked to dementia, potentially via mechanisms such as trained immunity or heterologous adaptive immunity. The study also explored how prior influenza vaccination and autoimmune conditions may modify the vaccines effect, supporting the hypothesis that broader immune modulation could contribute to dementia protection. While these findings are compelling, the researchers acknowledged several limitations. One challenge was the potential under-detection of dementia in health records, as not all cases are formally diagnosed. The study also focused on a specific age group, making it difficult to apply the results to younger populations. Another important consideration was that the study examined only the live-attenuated herpes zoster vaccine. Importantly, the study focused on the live-attenuated vaccine Zostavax, as the recombinant vaccine Shingrix was introduced only after the study period ended. It is unclear whether the newer vaccine would have the same effects on dementia risk. Implications and conclusions Dementia remains one of the most pressing public health challenges worldwide, with no cure currently available. If further research confirms that vaccines can reduce the risk of dementia, this could open up new avenues for prevention. If validated in other settings, the shingles vaccine could represent one of the most effective and cost-effective preventive strategies for dementia. Furthermore, given the widespread availability and safety profile of the herpes zoster vaccine, these findings suggest a promising, low-risk intervention that could potentially help millions of people. While further research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms at play, this study provides compelling evidence that the herpes zoster vaccine may do more than just prevent shingles it may also help protect the aging brain. In a growing global trend, bacteria have evolved new ways to maneuver around medical treatments for a variety of infections. The rising antibiotic resistance crisis poses a significant public health threat in hospitals and other settings, with infections resulting in millions of deaths in recent years. Scientists are now looking to bacteriophage - viruses that infect bacteria - and their potential to treat drug-resistant infections. They have begun to look deeper into an intriguing class of large bacteriophage known as "jumbo phage" that exhibit extraordinary features as possible new agents for bacterial infection treatments. A study led by University of California San Diego researchers has shed new light on the unusual ways that phages have evolved to infect bacteria. Over millions of years, viruses and bacteria have engaged in a back-and-forth arms race. Viruses develop new ways to infect bacteria, while bacteria counter by evolving a resistance mechanism. In order to fully realize the potential of jumbo phages and their promise as new therapeutics, researchers must decipher the mechanisms they employ to infect bacteria and evade the host's defenses. A new study published in the journal Cell Host and Microbe describes the first-of-its-kind discovery of a type of membrane-bound sac, or vesicle, used by jumbo phages of the Chimalliviridae family. A team that includes researchers from the Innovative Genomics Institute at UC Berkeley found that immediately after jumbo phages infect a bacterial cell, they form a structure that shields and hides valuable DNA material. Phages use this genetic material to develop a nucleus inside their bacterial hosts. The newly discovered compartment, which they named the EPI, or early phage infection vesicle, serves as a type of cloaking device that prevents triggering the bacteria's immune system. "When phage infect a bacterial cell, the EPI vesicle protects the genome of the virus during early stages of infection when it's very vulnerable," said Emily Armbruster, a UC San Diego School of Biological Sciences graduate student and co-lead author of the study. Bacteria and viruses are often dismissed as simple organisms but they're actually capable of very sophisticated intracellular warfare and this study is a new example of that." Emily Armbruster, University of California - San Diego The new findings are part of UC San Diego's advancements in developing innovative therapies using phages, highlighted by a consortium funded by a Howard Hughes Medical Institute's (HHMI) Emergent Pathogens Initiative. Also, the university's Center for Innovative Phage Applications and Therapeutics (IPATH) is the first dedicated phage therapy center in North America focusing on medical solutions to combat antibiotic resistant infections. Because most phages simply inject their DNA directly into the host, effectively announcing their arrival within the cell, the results of Chimalliviridae phage's stealth approach came as a revelation to researchers. "The discovery of this vesicle was completely surprising. The bacteria don't realize that there's a virus in there, producing things that will eventually take over," said Joe Pogliano, a professor in the Department of Molecular Biology and a senior author of the paper. "If we have other phages that are really good at infecting bacteria, the hope is that we might be able to give them this vesicle for protection. The goal is to make phages that are better at killing bacteria so that we can have a range of phage therapy applications." Armbruster identified curious DNA "dots" within infected cells under a light microscope. Professor Elizabeth Villa's laboratory then used high-end imaging technologies to discover that these dots were tiny vesicles containing viral DNA and molecular machineries outside these vesicles. Paper co-lead author Phoolwanti Rani, a postdoctoral scholar in the Villa Lab, found that these vesicles were actually metabolically active, confirming the purpose of the molecular machines hanging outside the vesicles. "These vesicles are one-of-a-kind in bacteria," said Rani. "Not only did we show that these vesicles are making RNA, but also they are getting ready to establish infection by synthesizing genes important for nucleus formation." "A few years ago we discovered the phage nucleus that protects the replicating genomes. The question remained: how is the first genome protected?" said Villa, a professor in the Department of Molecular Biology and HHMI Investigator. "Discovering a second compartment that is metabolically active blew our minds, and will be key for therapeutic applications of phage." Crucial to the findings was the use of "CRISPR interference by antisense RNA targeting" (CRISPRi-ART), a new CRISPR-based technology recently published in Nature Microbiology from the labs of Brady Cress and Nobel laureate Jennifer Doudna at the Innovative Genomics Institute (UC Berkeley). This work, co-led by postdoctoral scholar Ben Adler and PhD student Muntathar Al-Shimary from the Doudna lab, describes how CRISPRi-ART targets messenger RNA and halts the production of proteins that researchers target for analysis. In the new study from UC San Diego, the researchers used CRISPRi-ART to demonstrate that the EPI and nucleus-forming stages are both necessary for the Chimalliviridae's normal life cycle and infection process. A new study links screen use in bedespecially scrolling social media and streamingto higher rates of insomnia among college students. Study: How and when screens are used: Comparing different screen activities and sleep in Norwegian university students. Image Credit: DimaBerlin / Shutterstock.com In a recent study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, researchers investigate whether electronic screen exposure in bed, particularly social media use, affects sleep as compared to other screen-based activities in students. Why do students sleep less? Proper sleep is essential for maintaining both mental and physical health. In fact, poor sleep negatively affects memory, attention span, and other aspects of cognitive functioning, which can subsequently influence academic performance. Typically, students in higher education sleep less than the recommended seven to nine hours. For example, a recent study highlighted that 30% of Norwegian students sleep six to seven hours or less every night, with females more likely to develop insomnia. Between 2010 and 2018, the incidence of insomnia among Norwegian students has risen significantly. Previous studies have reported that digital media use including gaming, watching television, and using social media influences sleep quality and duration. These studies have also demonstrated that the rise in screen time over the past several decades may have further contributed to short sleep times. To date, most studies analyzing the effects of digital media on sleep have primarily focused on its impact in children and adolescents, of which include delayed bedtime and increased sleep onset latency. The advent of smartphones has significantly increased screen use prior to bed or in bed, particularly among students. Screen use in bed adversely influences sleep due to light exposure from the screen that suppresses melatonin secretion and delays the circadian rhythm, as well as notifications from devices that interrupt sleep after its onset. Social media use also contributes to delaying bedtime and displacing sleep. However, it remains unclear whether social media use causes sleep disturbances to a greater extent as compared to other screen activities. About the study The current study estimated the time students spend using screens in bed and its association with sleep disturbances. Data from Studentenes Helse- og Trivselsunderskelse (SHOT2022) survey, which is a national cross-sectional study that included all students enrolled in higher education in Norway, were used for this analysis. All relevant data of full-time students between 18 and 28 years of age were collected between February and April 2022. Different forms of electronic media use were recorded, of which included watching movies and television series, checking social media, browsing the internet, listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, and reading study-related content, after they went to bed. Based on these responses, the study participants were segregated into three groups including Checking social media, Social media + other, and Non-social media. The mean time spent on screen-based activities in bed was estimated. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria for insomnia was used to evaluate symptoms of insomnia and sleep duration. Time in bed (TIB), sleep onset latency (SOL), and wake after sleep onset (WASO) were assessed with specific questions. Multiple logistic regression modelling was used to understand the effects of different forms of screen time use in bed on sleep among students. Screen time in bed linked to higher insomnia risk Approximately 35.1% of students who were enrolled in higher education in Norway completed the web-based questionnaires. As compared to men, female study participants were younger, more likely to use screens in bed, experience insomnia symptoms, and report longer sleep durations. Over 31% of study participants who did not use screens in bed reported insomnia symptoms, among whom their average sleep duration was 7.56 hours. Comparatively, 34.4% of screen users reported insomnia with a sleep duration of 7.57 hours. Regression models adjusted for age and sex revealed that those who did not use screens in bed were 24% less likely to report insomnia. However, no difference in sleep duration was observed between screen users and non-screen users. Approximately 69% of young adults who used screens in bed used social media along with other screen-based activities, particularly browsing the internet and watching movies. Interestingly, the association between screen time and insomnia was similar across groups. Approximately 15% of participants only used social media, whereas another 15% of the study cohort abstained from social media. The analysis suggests that an additional one hour of screen time after going to bed was associated with a 59% increased risk of insomnia symptoms in students and an average reduction of 24 minutes in sleep duration. Study participants who only used social media were least likely to report insomnia symptoms while also sleeping for the longest duration. In contrast, those who were engaged in social media, along with other screen-based activities, exhibited the highest proportions reporting short sleep duration and insomnia symptoms. Conclusions The study findings demonstrate that screen time in bed was associated with an increased risk of developing insomnia symptoms, regardless of the screen activity. Future studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms that may contribute to the negative relationship between screen use in bed and sleep disturbances. Tata Motors Shares Fall 4% As CLSA Downgrades Rating And Cuts Price Target Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 09:40 IST Tata Motors' shares fell 4 per cent after CLSA downgraded the stock, citing US tariffs and Jaguar model stoppages. CLSA downgrades rating of Tata Motors. (File photo) Tata Motors Share Price: Tata Motors shares fell 4 per cent during the intraday session on Friday. The selling pressure has come following the brokerage CLSA downgrading the automobile manufacturers rating and cutting its price target. Recommended Stories The scrip was trading at Rs 625.25 apiece around 9:30 AM with a fall of 4.37 per cent. It opened at Rs 650 apiece, against the previous day close at Rs 654.05 apiece. What CLSA Said In Its Note CLSA underlined the dual shock in the form of 25 per cent import tariffs in the US for all foreign-made automobile and the stoppage of the Jaguar Models, leading to a volume decline of 14% YoY for Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) in the financial year 2026. On Thursday, Shares of Tata Motors slid 2.43 per cent following the US president Donald Trumps announcement of new tariffs including a 25 per cent tariff on foreign made cars. The scrip ended at Rs 655.55 per share, against the previous day close at Rs 671.90 apiece. Tata Motors Shares have fallen almost 43 per cent since the peak at Rs 1,161 apiece last year in August. Its 52-week high and low remained at Rs 1,179 and Rs 606, respectively. Brokerages warned of a broader economic impact on Indian exports due to the wide-ranging tariffs. Macquarie pointed out that auto exports, constituting 3% of Indias shipments to the US, will suffer, potentially affecting Indias GDP significantly. UBS described the tariffs as higher than expected, making some exports unviable and posing a negative development for the Indian market. Tata Motors Share Price Target 2025 Tata Motors was downgraded back to its outperform" rating and its price target was cut by 18% to Rs 765 from Rs 930 earlier. Tata Motors may see its EBIT margins decrease to 7% in the financial year 2026-2027, compared to the 9% anticipated this year, due to lower scale. Therefore, CLSA has lowered JLRs Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) estimate for the financial year 2026, although it expects JLR to remain free cash flow positive in both financial years 2026 and 2027. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all CLSA has also reduced JLRs target Enterprise Value-to-EBITDA multiple from 2.5x to 2x due to near-term growth challenges, which it believes are already priced in, as JLR is currently trading at 1.1 times EV/EBITDA. With Indias commercial vehicle cycle set to bottom out in the financial year 2026, the brokerage has extended Tata Motors India CV business valuation by a year to the financial year 2028, which could potentially add 127 per share to its price. About the Author Varun Yadav Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst... Read More Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst... Read More Stay updated with all the latest news on the Stock Market, including market trends, Sensex and Nifty updates, top gainers and losers, and expert analysis. Get real-time insights, financial reports, and investment strategiesonly on News18. First Published: April 04, 2025, 08:27 IST Sultan Of Brunei Owns 'World's Largest Residential Palace, 7,000 Luxury Cars' | Peak Into His $50 Billion Fortune Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 13:30 IST Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is the 29th sultan from his family, reigning in Brunei as the world's longest-reigning monarch alive. The Sultan's fortune has been grabbing the world's attention. (Photo Credits: X) Owning a fleet of 7,000 cars and with an estimated wealth of $50 billion, Bruneis Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is the worlds longest-reigning monarch alive, known for his extravagant lifestyle. The Sultan of Brunei once even hosted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the latters first bilateral visit to the nation last year. Read along to learn about the Sultan of Brunei. Born on July 15, 1946, to Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, Bolkiah was chosen as a successor to his father from a very young age. As the 29th sultan of the family, he ascended to the throne in August 1968, only to become famous globally for his billion-dollar fortune. From spending big at casinos, on luxury cars, yachts, and hotels, to commissioning his private zoo, Bolkiah had his extravaganzas. Recommended Stories ALSO READ: In 90s, Disney Created Its Worst Enemy. It Fired A Man Whos Now Worth $3.8 Billion Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who is also the prime minister of Brunei, holds many high-ranking positions, adding more to his fortune. Under his rule, Bruneis status solidified as one of the richest nations based on oil wealth. His luxurious lifestyle and fortune have been fascinating people for decades now. This is the Sultan of Brunei.He owns 600 Rolls-Royces, and his palace has 1,788 rooms. Here are 6 ridiculous facts about the world's most expensive lifestyle: pic.twitter.com/lLggCnGbQx The Forex Complex (@TheForexComplex) April 2, 2025 He commissioned a $600 million palace, called Istana Nurul Iman, where he currently resides. The palace houses 1,778 rooms, 257 bathrooms, a lavish throne room, a polo complex, a large mosque, five swimming pools, and even a garage with a capacity for 110 cars. It was named the worlds largest residential palace" by the Guinness World Records. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Additionally, the Sultan is also famous for his love for cars, owning a private collection of 500 Rolls-Royces, among other vehicles. His extensive collection includes over 7,000 cars from the brands of Ferrari, Mercedes, Bentley, BMW, and Jaguar, and even three of the five McLaren F1 LM cars ever produced. Bolkiah also owns a private aircraft collection, which reportedly features a gold-plated Boeing 747 400, among other jets and helicopters. As per reports, the Sultan spends approximately $20,000 for a single haircut, for which he arranges for his favourite London-based barber to fly first class to Brunei. About the Author Business Desk A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al... Read More A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 12:27 IST When Sambhaji Maharaj Braved 40 Days Of Aurangzebs Torture And Refused To Surrender Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 09:33 IST Aurangzeb subjected Sambhaji Maharaj to brutal torture for 40 days, but he refused to surrender or change his ways. Sambhaji Maharaj was the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. (Representative image: Shutterstock) The son of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was a courageous warrior and a dedicated defender of Hindu Dharma. He remained steadfast even after Aurangzeb cruelly tortured him for more than 40 days. His heroic actions against the Portuguese and the Mughals had a profound impact on Indian history and contributed to the establishment of Hindu dominion in North India. On 11 March 1689, Sambhaji Maharaj, then 31 years old, was brutally executed in Tulapur, on the banks of the Bhima River near Pune. Recommended Stories Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: His Life And Fight for the People At the age of eight, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj first visited Aurangzebs court with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who had a vision of Swarajya. This marked the beginning of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharajs journey. Even at such a young age, Sambhaji dared to challenge the Mughal ruler, stating that he had gained power at the cost of his own siblings lives. Born at Purandar Fort, Gehrapurandar, on 14 May 1657, Sambhuraje, as he was affectionately known, lost his mother when he was just two years old. He was raised by Jijabai, his paternal grandmother, who instilled in him the ideals of Swarajya and Shivaji Maharajs legacy. Sambhaji was not only a skilled warrior but was also well-versed in both Islamic and Hindu literature, having studied Sanskrit and Persian. In 1665, Shivaji Maharaj and the Mughals signed the Treaty of Purandar at Sambhurajes birthplace. As part of the agreement, the nine-year-old Sambhaji was sent to live as a political hostage with Raja Jai Singh I of Amber. However, Sambhaji Maharaj never missed an opportunity to outwit the Mughals, becoming even more resilient during these difficult years. As time passed, Sambhaji remained committed to Swarajya and learned from Shivaji Maharaj the skills needed to sustain it and expand the Maratha Empire. He mastered military tactics, political strategy, and cavalry command. The Maratha forces were strengthened by volunteers from all walks of life who were inspired by Sambhajis courage and charismatic leadership. In his early years, he would sit and interact with people of all castes and social groups along the banks of the Kalganga in Maharashtra. When Shivaji Maharaj was appointed Chhatrapati of the Maratha state, he was prepared to conduct raids against the Mughals. Sambhaji joined him in several successful military campaigns in the following years. After Shivaji Maharajs death in 1680, the Maratha Empire and the Swarajya movement were thrown into chaos and turmoil. However, Sambhaji Maharaj emerged as Swarajyas guiding light. On 16 January 1681, he became the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire. In 1682, under Aurangzebs command, the Mughals launched an aggressive campaign to capture the Deccan. They aimed to surround the Maratha Empire from all directions. However, Sambhajis extensive planning and strategic guerrilla warfare inflicted significant losses on the Mughal army. Despite their relentless efforts, the Mughals only managed to capture Bijapur and Golconda. In 1687, when the Mughals launched another attack, the Maratha army retaliated fiercely and emerged victorious. However, this victory came at the cost of the life of Hambirrao Mohite, Sambhajis trusted commander and confidant. In 1689, while in Sangameshwar for a meeting with Maratha leaders, Sambhaji was ambushed by a Mughal army. After capturing him, Aurangzeb offered Sambhaji the chance to convert to Islam. However, Chhatrapati Sambhaji refused. As a result, he was shackled, with his hands and neck bound to a wooden plank. ALSO READ: GK Quiz: Which Maratha Leader Masterminded Guerrilla Warfare Against Mughals? According to legend, when Aurangzeb ordered Sambhaji to lower his gaze, he defied him by maintaining direct eye contact. Infuriated, Aurangzeb ordered his eyes to be gouged out. Historian Dennis Kinkead claims that Aurangzeb also had Sambhajis tongue cut off when he repeatedly refused to embrace Islam. Despite his grievous injuries, Sambhaji survived for several days, but Aurangzeb intensified the torture. His body parts were mutilated one by one until, on 11 March 1689, he was finally beheaded. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Following Sambhaji Maharajs death, Rajaram, the younger son of Chhatrapati Shivaji, was crowned. However, the Mughals also attempted to imprison him. During the conflict with the Mughals in 1699, Rajaram lost his life. The life of Sambhaji Maharaja legacy of struggle and triumph that shaped Indian historycontinues to stand as a testament to bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the dream of Swarajya. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 09:33 IST PSEB 8th Class Result 2025 Declared: Direct Link To Check Punjab Board Scorecards Here Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 18:27 IST PSEB Class 8 Result 2025: Punjab Board Class 8 scorecards are now available for download on pseb.ac.in. PSEB 8th result 2025: Punjab Board Class 8 results are now available on pseb.ac.in. PSEB Class 8 Result 2025: The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has officially announced the Punjab Board Class 8th Results 2025 today, April 4, 2025. Students can now check their results for Class 8th on the official PSEB website pseb.ac.in. Students can access their results using their roll numbers and names. The Class 8 exams were held from February 19 to March 7, 2025. A total of 2,90,471 students from 10,471 schools across the state appeared for the annual examination, with 2,82,627 students passing, resulting in a pass percentage of 97.30%. Recommended Stories Also Read- PSEB Punjab Board Class 8th Result 2025 Declared, Two Students Score 100% Marks How to Check PSEB Class 8th Result 2025? Follow these steps to check your result: Step 1: Visit the official website pseb.ac.in. Step 2: Click on the Results tab on the homepage. Step 3: Select the link for Middle Examination Result February 2025 AVAILABLE". Step 4: Enter your roll number and date of birth in the required fields. Step 5: Click Submit, and your PSEB Punjab Board Result 2025 will appear on the screen. Step 6: Download and print the result for future reference. Direct Link To Check PSEB 8th Result 2025 How To Check PSEB Class 8th Results Via SMS? Type PB8 and send it to 5676750. The PSEB Class 8th Result will be sent to the respective mobile number. Important Details On PSEB Result 2025 Scorecards: Students are advised to carefully check the details on their scorecards. The PSEB Class 8th scorecards will include: Students full name Roll number School name Parents name Marks obtained in each subject Total score PSEB Class 8th Result 2025: Grading System A+: Above 90% marks A: Above 80% marks and up to 90% marks B+: Above 70% marks and up to 80% marks B: Above 60% marks and up to 70% marks C+: Above 50% marks and up to 60% marks C: Above 40% marks and up to 50% marks D: 33% marks and up to 40% marks E: Below 33% marks top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Pass Percentage Drops Punjab Board 8th Result 2025 The overall pass percentage dipped from 98.31% in 2024 to 97.30% in 2025. Amritsar secured the highest rank among Punjab districts with a pass percentage of 98.85% in Class 8 results. Additionally, a supplementary examination for Class 8 will be held in June. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 18:27 IST Can India, South & Southeast Asia Counter Trumps Tariffs With BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement? Explained Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 14:06 IST With focus on regionalism as the post-World War 2 global order continues to come undone under the Trump administration, the countries are expected to adopt Bangkok Vision 2030, which includes a roadmap for conclusion of negotiations for the BIMSTEC FTA BIMSTEC has five members from South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka) and two from Southeast Asia (Myanmar and Thailand). (X) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in Thailand for the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit, sought to reset the ties between New Delhi and Bangkok, amid the global uncertainty unleashed by US President Donald Trumps reciprocal tariffs. Thailand holds a special place in Indias Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific vision. Today, we have decided to strengthen our ties into a strategic partnership. Also, we discussed establishing a Strategic Dialogue between our security agencies," said Modi on Thursday, at a joint press briefing alongside Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Recommended Stories On Thursday, the US imposed a range of tariffs on countries across the world, including India and Thailand, even as BIMSTEC inked a maritime transport cooperation agreement to boost regional connectivity and trade. With focus on regionalism as the post-World War 2 global order continues to come undone under the Trump administration, BIMSTEC is expected to adopt Bangkok Vision 2030, which includes a roadmap for conclusion of negotiations for the free trade agreement (FTA). Can the BIMSTEC FTA help India and other countries counter Trumps tariffs? Heres all you need to know. Our talks focused on ways to deepen the India-Thailand Strategic Partnership. The sectors we discussed include strategic areas such as defence, security, maritime safety and hydrography. We also reiterated our commitment to working together to overcome the challenges of pic.twitter.com/JhRPpPwyZB Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 3, 2025 WHAT IS BIMSTEC? BIMSTEC is a grouping of seven member states lying in the littoral and adjacent areas of the Bay of Bengal. It is a unique link connecting South Asia with Southeast Asia five members from South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka) and two from Southeast Asia (Myanmar and Thailand). The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) brings together 1.7 billion people 22% of the world population with a combined GDP of US$ 5 trillion. The organisation came into existence on June 6,1997 through the Bangkok Declaration. It was originally formed with four member states with the acronym BIST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka and Thailand Economic Cooperation). Following the inclusion of Myanmar in December 1997, it was renamed BIMST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand Economic Cooperation). With the inclusion of Nepal and Bhutan in 2004, the name of the grouping was changed to BIMSTEC. BIMSTEC organises inter-governmental interactions through summits, ministerial meetings, senior officials meetings, permanent working committee, joint working groups, and experts level meetings. WHAT IS BIMSTEC FREE TRADE AREA (FTA)? The Framework Agreement on the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area was signed in Phuket, Thailand on February 8, 2004 and came into force on June 30, 2004. Article 2 of the Framework Agreement outlines the following areas to be covered by the Comprehensive Free Trade Area (FTA)": Progressive elimination of tariffs and non-tariff barriers in substantially all trade in goods Progressive liberalisation of trade in services with substantial sectoral coverage Establishing an open and competitive investment regime that facilitates and promotes investment within the BIMSTEC FTA Establishing effective trade and investment facilitating measures, including, but not limited to, simplification of customs procedures and development of mutual recognition arrangements Establishing appropriate mechanisms for implementation of the agreement. Delighted to participate in the 20th BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok this morning.Expressed Indias solidarity and support for Myanmar & Thailand in face of the massive earthquake. Highlighted that: BIMSTEC represents the trifecta of Indias three crucial pic.twitter.com/DKMf3STlHM Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 3, 2025 CONSTITUENT AGREEMENTS OF BIMSTEC FTA The BIMSTEC Trade Negotiating Committee (TNC) was set up with the task of negotiating the constituent agreements of the BIMSTEC FTA. TNC has several working groups under which it is mandated to negotiate the constituent agreements of BIMSTEC FTA. Following agreements are currently under negotiation: Agreement on Trade in Goods of the Framework Agreement on the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area Agreement on Cooperation and Mutual Assistance in Customs Matters for the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area Agreement on Dispute Settlement Procedures and Mechanism of the Framework Agreement on the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area Agreement on Trade in Services of the Framework Agreement on the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area Agreement on Investment of the Framework Agreement on the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area Agreement on Trade Facilitation for the Framework Agreement on the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area Protocol to amend the Framework Agreement on the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area Grateful for the warm welcome by the Indian community in Bangkok.India and Thailand share a deep-rooted cultural bond that continues to flourish through our people. Heartening to see this connection reflected so strongly here. pic.twitter.com/sQTVUlDG3F Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 3, 2025 WHERE INDIA STANDS India and Thailand, its current chair, are two of the largest economies in the BIMSTEC. Indra Mani Pandey, Secretary General of BIMSTEC, was reported as saying that India and the BIMSTEC members will agree to the roadmap for the FTA in the summit. Every region needs to look out for itself, whether it is in food, fuel and fertiliser supply, vaccines or speedy disaster response. We are seeing that unfold before our very eyes. Times have indeed changed. Shorter supply chains and immediate neighbours have a salience much more than before," said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in his opening remarks at the BIMSTEC summit. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He added: Colleagues, we meet today in the 28th year of the BIMSTEC. And we do so in very uncertain and volatile times, when the global order itself is under visible churn. This should encourage us to approach BIMSTEC from a more ambitious perspective. The new order, whose outlines have only now started to become visible, is intrinsically more regional and agenda-specific." In August 2024, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal had said that BIMSTEC members should re-examine the priorities of member nations with regards to trade negotiations so that the delayed Free Trade Agreement can be finalised. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 12:32 IST Which State Has The Most Waqf Properties & Which City Is Called The 'Waqf Capital'? Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 11:35 IST This city hosts approximately 77,000 Waqf properties, accounting for 30% of the country's total Waqf properties and have assets valued at over Rs 1 lakh crore The Mecca Masjid complex in Hyderabad is valued at more than Rs 5,000 crore and shops around Charminar generates over Rs 50 crore in annual rent. (PTI File) The Narendra Modi government has introduced and passed a bill to amend the Waqf rules in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. The Waqf, as a non-governmental organisation, holds the largest amount of land and property in India. Among the states and cities with the most Waqf property, Hyderabad stands out. The city, often referred to as the Waqf capital of India, hosts approximately 77,000 Waqf properties, accounting for 30% of the countrys total Waqf properties. Recommended Stories Significant properties include the 400-year-old Mecca Masjid, commercial shops around Charminar generating crores of rupees in annual income, and thousands of acres of land donated by the Nizams of the Deccan region. Wealthiest Waqf Board In India Telanganas Waqf Board is the richest in the country, with Telangana and Andhra Pradesh together holding 1.2 lakh Waqf properties. Notable properties in Andhra Pradesh include the historical 200-year-old Shahi Masjid in Kurnool, and cultivable lands in Kadapa and Anantapur. The annual income of the Telangana Waqf Board is Rs 500 crore, derived from rent and donations, while 85% of Waqf lands in Andhra Pradesh are situated in rural areas. Which State Has The Most Waqf Properties Uttar Pradesh ranks first in terms of the number of Waqf properties, with 1.5 lakh properties, over 20% of the countrys total. However, it stands second in terms of the total property value. Notable properties include the land of Bada Imambara and mosques in Lucknow, as well as industrial land and religious sites near Kanpur, Meerut, and Moradabad. In Karnataka, there are more than 30,000 Waqf properties located in Bengaluru, Gulbarga, and Bidar, with a 2023 report indicating that 90% of Waqf land in Bengaluru is illegally occupied. In West Bengal, significant properties include historic mosques and tombs in Kolkata and Murshidabad, as well as commercial land along the Hooghly river. The five states with the maximum Waqf properties are Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and West Bengal. Cities with the most valuable Waqf properties include: Hyderabad (Telangana), with the Mecca Masjid complex valued at more than Rs 5,000 crore and shops around Charminar generating over Rs 50 crore in annual rent. Delhi, with Jama Masjid and surrounding land valued at over Rs 3,000 crore, including hotels and shops in the Nizamuddin Dargah area. Ajmer (Rajasthan), with the Ajmer Sharif Dargah receiving annual contributions of over Rs 100 crore. Mumbai (Maharashtra), with the Haji Ali Dargah situated on premium land near the beach. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Some Interesting Facts About Waqf Properties The Telangana Waqf Board, the richest in the country, have assets valued at over Rs 1 lakh crore. Additionally, 40% of Waqf land in Uttar Pradesh is cultivable, providing substantial revenue to the board. The management of Waqf properties in Kerala is considered to be the most transparent, and 75% of the actual value of Waqf properties is higher than government records indicate. First Published: April 04, 2025, 11:35 IST Who Donated Most Land To Waqf Board In India? Know Who Tops The List Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 10:55 IST The Waqf Board, India's third-largest landowner, manages 940,000 acres for religious and community use, with major donors like the Nizams, Mughal rulers, and wealthy Muslims. The Nizams of Hyderabad were notable for their public donations to the Waqf. (Representative/PTI File) The Waqf Board is recognised as the third-largest landowner in India, with approximately 872,000 registered immovable properties, as of December 2022. Various reports estimate the total land owned by the Waqf Board to exceed 940,000 acres. These properties include mosques, madrasas, cemeteries, and other lands designated for religious and community use. Waqf properties in India are predominantly donated by Muslim rulers, Sufi saints, wealthy businessmen, and religious leaders who have contributed large estates for mosques, dargahs, madrasas, and social welfare. Recommended Stories The Waqf Board manages properties exclusively reserved for religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law. Once a property is registered as a Waqf, it is transferred from the donor to Allah, making it immutable. The term Wakf is derived from the Arabic word wakufa, meaning something dedicated in the name of God or money allocated for public welfare. In India, Waqf administration is largely autonomous, whereas in Pakistan and Bangladesh it is heavily regulated by the government. In India, Waqf law pertains to minority rights, while in Pakistan and Bangladesh it falls under Islamic governance. Nizams Among Top Donors To Waqf In India The Nizams of Hyderabad were notable for their public donations to the Waqf. The title Nizam is short for Nizam-ul-Mulk, meaning ruler of the state. Hyderabad had ten Nizams, the first being Mir Qamaruddin Khan (17241748) and the last being Mir Osman Ali Khan. Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah VII notably donated thousands of acres to Waqf in the Deccan region. Huge Donations To Temples Additionally, Nizam Osman Ali Khan made substantial donations to prominent temples such as the Yadgirigutta Temple, Tirupati Temple, and the Golden Temple in Amritsar. In South India, the Sultans of Golconda and Bijapur also generously donated to madrasas and religious institutions. Mughal Royals Who Donated To Waqf Mughal rulers like Emperor Akbar, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb contributed significant lands to Waqf properties for religious sites in Delhi, Agra, and Hyderabad. Prominent female figures, such as Jahanara Begum, donated considerable properties to Waqf as well. How Followers Of Sufi Saints Contributed To Waqf Followers of Sufi saints, including Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya (Delhi) and Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (Ajmer), donated large properties to their shrines. Other significant contributions were made to the dargahs of Salar Masood Ghazi (Bahraich) and Baba Farid (Punjab). Major Contributions By Affluent Muslim Traders And Landowners Wealthy Muslim merchants and landowners, including industrialists like Sir Syed Muhammad and the Vakeel family of Ahmedabad, have also donated Waqf properties to educational and religious institutions. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Notable donors include former Vice President Abdul Hamid Ansari and Wipro owner Azim Premji, who contributed to Waqf properties for education and health. Institutions like Deoband and Nadwatul Ulama received substantial donations to support their activities. The Waqf Boards extensive landholdings, which span 940,000 acres across the country, continue to generate income for religious and social works. Delhi, Hyderabad, Lucknow, and Ajmer host the highest number of Waqf properties. However, disputes over Waqf land ownership and usage remain a recurring issue. First Published: April 04, 2025, 10:55 IST Amit Shah Arrives In Chhattisgarh; To Interact With Security Officials On Anti-Naxal Operations Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 23:56 IST Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived here on Friday night on a twoday visit to Chhattisgarh during which he will interact with top officials of security forces involved in antiNaxalite operations and attend a cultural event. Amit Shah arrives in Chhattisgarh. Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived here on Friday night on a two-day visit to Chhattisgarh during which he will interact with top officials of security forces involved in anti-Naxalite operations and attend a cultural event. Shah landed at Swami Vivekananda Airport Raipur in a special plane at around 9.30 pm and went to a hotel in Nava Raipur. Recommended Stories He was welcomed by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Deputy CM Vijay Sharma, among others. As per his schedule, the Union Minister will reach Dantewada town at 12.10 pm on Saturday, where he will offer prayers at Maa Danteshwari Temple and attend the closing ceremony of Bastar Pandum festival a cultural event of the state government. "Thereafter, Shah will interact with commanders of security forces involved in anti-Naxal operations. He will chair a review meeting on anti-Naxal operations and his departments at a hotel in Naya Raipur at 5.20 pm before leaving for Delhi," an official said. The Union Home Minister has frequently underlined the governments resolve to eradicate Naxalism by March 2026. Notably, anti-Naxalite operations intensified in Chhattisgarh after the BJP came to power in 2023. Security forces have gunned down around 350 Naxalites in a string of encounters, mostly centred in the Bastar region, since last January. In the latest strike, 18 Naxalites, including 11 women, were killed in twin encounters in Bastar region on March 29. On April 1, Shah said India had achieved a milestone by reducing the number of districts most affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE) from 12 to six. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Narendra Modi government is building a "Sashakt, Surakshit and Samriddh Bharat" with a ruthless approach to Naxalism along with relentless efforts for all-pervasive development, Shah had said. "Taking a giant stride towards building a Naxal-free Bharat, today our nation achieved a new milestone by significantly reducing the number of districts most affected by Leftwing Extremism to just six from 12," Shah had said in a post on X. Location : Raipur, India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 23:56 IST Congress To Challenge Waqf Bill In Supreme Court, Calls It 'Assault On Constitution' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 11:02 IST The Congress party plans to challenge the constitutionality of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Supreme Court, arguing it undermines constitutional principles. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh (Photo: PTI) The Congress party on Friday said it would soon challenge the constitutionality of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Supreme Court. In an X post, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh termed the passage of the Bill an assault of the Narendra Modi government on the Indian Constitution" and said his party would continue to resist the same. Recommended Stories The INCs challenge of the CAA, 2019 is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INCs challenge of the 2019 amendments to the RTI Act, 2005 is being heard in the Supreme Court," he wrote. The INCs challenge to the validity of the amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules (2024) is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INCs intervention to uphold the letter and spirit of the Places of Worship Act, 1991 is being heard in the Supreme Court," the Congress leaders post read. The INC will very soon be challenging in the Supreme Court the constitutionality of the Wakf (Amendment) Bill, 2024," Ramesh wrote. We are confident and will continue to resist all assaults of the Modi Govt on the principles, provisions, and practices that are contained in the Constitution of India," he added. The INCs challenge of the CAA, 2019 is being heard in the Supreme Court.The INCs challenge of the 2019 amendments to the RTI Act, 2005 is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INCs challenge to the validity of the amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules (2024) is being Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) April 4, 2025 The Parliament early Friday approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after the Rajya Sabha gave its nod to the contentious legislation following an over 13-hour debate. The discussion witnessed staunch objections from opposition parties, which termed the Bill anti-Muslim" and unconstitutional" with the government responding that the historic reform" would benefit the minority community. The Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 members voting in favour and 95 opposing it. It was passed in the Lok Sabha early Thursday, with 288 members supporting it and 232 against it. Parliament also approved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025, with the Rajya Sabha giving its nod. The Lok Sabha has already given its assent to the Bill. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Opposition INDIA bloc parties opposed the Bill, alleging that it was unconstitutional" and aimed at targeting Muslims. They claimed that the aim of the legislation was to take over the properties of Muslims and hand them to corporations. Leaders of several opposition parties, including the Congress, the TMC, the DMK, the AAP, the Shiv Sena (UBT), the Samajwadi Party, the RJD, and Left parties, alleged that the Bill was brought by the government with mala fide intentions. Some of them also demanded the withdrawal of the Bill. About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: April 04, 2025, 10:25 IST CRPF Plans Field Firing Range In Chhattisgarh To Boost Anti-Naxal Operations Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Karishma Jain Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 14:10 IST With forces currently travelling to a neighbouring state for field firing exercises, the CRPF is exploring the possibility of setting up a dedicated range in Chhattisgarh Currently, forces have to travel to a neighbouring state for field firing exercises. (Representational image/PTI) While security forces have engaged in multiple encounters with Naxals in Chhattisgarh, and an average of five Naxals are being neutralised every day, CRPF ground commanders are requesting a dedicated Field Firing Range. Currently, forces have to travel to a neighbouring state for field firing exercises. In a recent meeting, it was decided that the CRPF would explore the possibility of establishing a firing range in Chhattisgarh for its personnel. Given the current scenario and the deadline set by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the CRPF is likely to escalate the matter to the appropriate level. Recommended Stories According to an official communication reviewed by News18, CRPF DG GP Singh has asked for a draft proposal on the matter. In view of the increased deployment of the force in Chhattisgarh, there is a need for a Field Firing Range. At present, the battalions deployed in the state have to travel to another state for field firing. In this regard, the Inspector General informed that Chhattisgarh Police has a Field Firing Range in Kanker," the letter states. It has been directed that the concerned officer will coordinate with Chhattisgarh Police to facilitate CRPF personnels access to the firing range. The Director General of the force further instructed that, in addition to Chhattisgarh Police, discussions should also be held with other deployed forces. If required, a draft proposal for the Field Firing Range should be sent to the Directorate General," the letter reads. Apart from the firing range, the CRPF is also planning to set up an R&D wing for the force. This initiative will help the force analyse ongoing activities in operational areas where it is deployed and provide recommendations for the modernisation plan to address future challenges. This R&D wing should be established under the leadership of an IG/DIG of the force. The Director General has instructed the Training Wing to review the plan and submit a proposal. He also directed them to seek suggestions from IIM Pune and prepare a detailed proposal," a senior CRPF official told News18 on the condition of anonymity. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Earlier, on 25 March, security forces killed three Naxalites, including Sudhakar, a senior leader with a bounty of Rs 25 lakh on his head. Similarly, on 20 March, two major encounters took place in Chhattisgarhs Bastar division, in which a total of 30 Naxalites were killed. The first encounter occurred on the Bijapur-Dantewada border, and the second on the Kanker-Narayanpur border. This year, security forces in the Bastar range have encountered 101 Naxals, with 50 per cent of these encounters taking place within a period of 10 days. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, due to the strict implementation of policies, incidents of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) violence, which had reached their highest level of 1,936 in 2010, have reduced to 374 in 2024, marking a reduction of 81 per cent. The total number of deaths (both civilian and security forces) has also decreased by 85 per cent during this period, from 1,005 deaths in 2010 to 150 in 2024. About the Author Ankur Sharma With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar... Read More With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar... Read More Location : Chhattisgarh, India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 14:10 IST Dust Storm In Mumbai, IMD Issues Thunderstorm Warning Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 17:48 IST Earlier this week, some areas of Mumbai had received drizzles. A dust storm swept through Mumbai on Friday (X) Mumbai Dust Storm: A dust storm whipped through Mumbai on Friday afternoon, reducing visibility and disrupting the daily life of Mumbaikars. The strong dusty winds accompanied by dust clouds affected the citys traffic and local train services. Recommended Stories Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning about the possibility of a thunderstorm in the Maharashtra capital in the next few hours. Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and light spells of rain with gusty winds reaching 30-40 kmph very likely to occur at isolated places in the districts of Mumbai during next 3-4 hours," the weather agency said in the Nowcast warning. The MeT department further urged the citizens to take precautions while stepping out. Citizens Share Videos The residents took to microblogging platform X and shared the videos of dust storm affecting the city. A user said, Scary dust storm hits Mumbai, it Feels like the scene from The Mummy" the entire area is engulfed, cant go outside.." Scary dust storm hits Mumbai, it Feels like the scene from The Mummy" the entire area is engulfed, cant go outside.. pic.twitter.com/BcGMwsLndq Mihir Jha (@MihirkJha) April 4, 2025 Another user said, Mumbai is one of the most unpredictable cities to exist its sunny outside for an entire day and next thing you know theres a dust storm." Dust Storm hits Thane. Live shot by me#MumbaiRains pic.twitter.com/KJyc40Uqzh Mumbai Nowcast (@s_r_khandelwal) April 4, 2025 Meanwhile, the mainline services of the Central Railway were affected around 3.15 pm on Friday as a corrugated sheet roof was blown off due to gusty winds and struck overhead wires near Atgaon station between Kasara and Kalyan, around 60 km from Mumbai, officials said. Mumbai Weather The financial capital of the country has been experiencing a gloomy weather for a past few days due to a cyclonic circulation affecting the state. The much-needed showers are likely to bring down temperatures slightly, providing a temporary escape from the sweltering conditions gripping the city. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Earlier this week, some areas of Mumbai had received light showers. (With inputs from PTI) About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 17:36 IST ED Raids Empuraan Producer Gokulam Gopalan Over Alleged Foreign Exchange Violation Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 12:21 IST The searches are being undertaken in Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and Kochi (Kerala) under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). L2: Empuraan produced was raided by ED on Friday. (Image: Instagram) The Enforcement Directorate on Friday conducted searches at the offices of Kerala-based businessman Gokulam Gopalan, one of the producers of the movie L2: Empuraan" in connection to an alleged foreign exchange violation. The searches are being undertaken in Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and Kochi (Kerala) under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), news agency PTI reported citing its sources. Recommended Stories The action is being taken against Gopalan and his company, Sree Gopalan Chit and Finance Co. Ltd., for suspected violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) amounting to Rs 1,000 crore, involving certain NRIs and other alleged unauthorised" transactions, as per PTI report. The agency is also reportedly investigating possible cheating" cases against the company to assess whether they fall under anti-money laundering laws. L2: Empuraan", the second part of the "Lucifer" movie, a trilogy planned by the Prithviraj-Mohanlal team, has become a topic of hot debate over its critique of right-wing politics and the covert mention of the Gujarat riots. Mohanlal recently expressed regret over the raging row and assured that the controversial portions would be removed from the movie. Meanwhile, earlier on Tuesday, the Kerala High Court refused to issue any interim order putting on hold the screening of Malayalam film L2: Empuraan starring superstar Mohanlal. The movie came under fire from the Sangh Parivar, particularly over certain scenes in the film. Upon the movies release on March 27, the Sangh Parivar strongly condemned it on social media. Meanwhile, Congress and Left-wing supporters praised the film for depicting right-wing politics as villainous." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Notably, L2: Empuraan, is the second part of the Lucifer trilogy, created by the Prithviraj-Mohanlal team. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More Location : Tamil Nadu, India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 11:41 IST Even Criminals Have Safeguards: SC Slams Haryana Police For High-Handed Arrest Reported By : LawBeat Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 18:04 IST The bench emphasised that the police are a vital part of the state apparatus and have a direct bearing on the safety and security of society at large and individuals in particular Supreme Court of India. (File) The Supreme Court has said that even a criminal, under the law of our land, enjoys certain safeguards to ensure the protection of his person and dignity, as it castigated the Haryana police for high-handedness in arresting a man. A bench of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Prashant Kumar Mishra asked the police heads of all states and union territories to ensure strict adherence to the safeguards available to a person in custody. Recommended Stories Petitioner Vijay Pal Yadav contended that he was not subjected to the due treatment required under the law by the police when they investigated a dispute he had with his neighbour. He argued that the law, as settled in Arnesh Kumar v. State of Bihar & Another, (2014) regarding arrest, had been totally flouted. His further contention was that the high-handedness of the police was such that he was subjected to physical abuse, both at the spot and later at the police station. His counsel submitted that the petitioners brother sent an e-mail at 11:24 am on the same day to the superintendent of police concerned, alleging that the police had arrested his brother. There was physical abuse at the police station, and only because an e-mail was sent to higher officials, as a knee-jerk reaction, a First Information Report was lodged against him two hours later at 1:30 PM, at which time the petitioner was said to have been taken into custody. The bench, which sought the personal presence of Haryanas DGP, said, We find that there appears to be evident high-handedness on the part of the police in this case. Even if a person may be a criminal, the law requires that he be treated in accordance therewith. Even a criminal, under the law of our land, enjoys certain safeguards in order to ensure protection of his person and dignity". In this case, the petitioner, when picked up by the police, was at best an accused, the bench said. It pointed out that while it is possible for a common man to exceed his limits (whereafter appropriate legal action shall ensue), the same cannot be expected from the police. Be that as it may, since already much water has flown and there is a proper police case, of which the concerned Court is in seisin, we consider it appropriate to close the present proceedings. Dependent on the outcome of the police case, parties shall have legal remedies as available in law," the bench said. However, the court cautioned and warned the concerned police officers to be careful in the future. The Director General was also directed to ensure that such occurrences do not recur and that there should be zero tolerance on the part of senior officers regarding any alleged transgression of authority by subordinate officers, the court ordered. The bench emphasised that the police are a vital part of the state apparatus and have a direct bearing on the safety and security of society at large and individuals in particular. The need, therefore, to maintain the confidence of individuals and society at large in the police is paramount. The counsel for the State of Haryana also presented the checklist under Section 41(1)(b)(ii) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. The court, however, said that perusal of the same prima facie does not inspire confidence. Rather, it appeared that it had been submitted only as a formality. We express our strong reservations with regard to filling-up of the checklist in a mechanical manner. Further, we caution and order that in futuro, such acts should not recur," the bench said. The court stressed that the judicial magistrate before whom the checklist is submitted would also be under an obligation to carefully apply his mind and not, as a matter of routine, accept such a checklist. We are confident that the Director General of Police has been appropriately sensitized and expect that transgressions of the nature alleged herein would not happen again. Failing which, as and when the same is brought to our notice, a very strict view shall be taken, and coercive measures shall also follow against the errant personnel," the bench said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The bench cited its judgment in the case of Somnath v. State of Maharashtra (2023), stating that it is unfortunate that even today, the court is forced to restate the principles and directions laid down in the D.K. Basu case. It issued a general direction to the police forces in all States and Union Territories, as well as all agencies endowed with the power of arrest and custody, to scrupulously adhere to all constitutional and statutory safeguards and the additional guidelines laid down by the court when a person is arrested and/or remanded to their custody. The court directed its registry to mark a copy of the present order and the judgment in the Somnath case to the Directors General of Police of all States and Union Territories, including the Commissioner of Police for the National Capital Territory of Delhi, as a reminder to strictly adhere to all safeguards available to persons in custody. About the Author Salil Tiwari Salil Tiwari, Senior Special Correspondent at Lawbeat, reports on the Allahabad High Court and courts in Uttar Pradesh, however, she also writes on important cases of national importance and public interests fr... Read More Salil Tiwari, Senior Special Correspondent at Lawbeat, reports on the Allahabad High Court and courts in Uttar Pradesh, however, she also writes on important cases of national importance and public interests fr... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 18:04 IST Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Meets Civil Aviation Minister To Push For Mysuru Airport Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 14:03 IST News18 has exclusively accessed a letter dated January 9, in which Siddaramaiah urged the AAI to expedite the airports expansion, citing a 2005 agreement. It was also submitted to the central minister Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah (left) with Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu to push for the expansion of Mysuru Airport, a project the state government has been aggressively pursuing. News18 has exclusively accessed a letter dated January 9, where Siddaramaiah urged the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to expedite the airports expansion, citing a 2005 agreement that places the financial responsibility for development on AAI. This was also submitted to the central minister. Recommended Stories The Chief Minister stated in the letter that the Karnataka government had already allocated Rs 319.14 crore for acquiring 240 acres required for the runway extension, with the land acquisition process now in its final stages. As per the 2005 agreement, the state is responsible for providing additional land free of cost, while the AAI is obligated to fund all capital expenditure for expansion and upgrades. Met Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu @RamMNK in Delhi today and discussed the development of airports in Mysuru, Kalaburagi, and Vijayapura.Industries Minister M.B. Patil, Political Secretaries Govindaraju and Legal Advisor Ponnanna, Chief Secretary pic.twitter.com/BEEAQ1qccZ Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 4, 2025 Since the State Government has borne the land acquisition cost of 319.14 crore for 240 acres required for the runway expansion of Mysuru Airport, the Airports Authority of India is requested to plan the expansion works, bear the estimated cost of 101.84 crore required for utility shifting, and take up the runway expansion/development works at the earliest," Siddaramaiahs letter stated. The CM, along with Industries Minister MB Patil, also discussed the development of airports in Kalaburagi and Vijayapura. The letter on Mysuru Airport also addressed pending utility shifting costs. The Cauvery Irrigation Corporation Limited (CNNL) has estimated Rs 70 crore for diverting ditches and canals in the expansion area, while the Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) and Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation Limited (CESC) have estimated Rs 31.82 crore for re-routing high-tension and low-tension power lines. This brings the total infrastructure shifting cost to Rs 101.82 crore. With land acquisition nearly complete, the state government has urged AAI to bear these costs and begin expansion work without further delay. The letter emphasised the urgency of the project and sought an early response from AAI. MYSURU DEVELOPMENT PUSH IN THE 2025 BUDGET Mysuru has seen significant allocations in Siddaramaiahs 2025 budget. Representing the Chamundeshwari constituency from the region, he has prioritised the airports expansion. The budget earmarked Rs 319 crore for extending the Mysuru Airport runway, aimed at meeting increasing demand and boosting the regions tourism potential. Additionally, the budget includes Rs 500 crore for developing a modern film city in Mysuru. Planned across 150 acres under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, the film city is expected to strengthen the regions cultural and economic landscape. The proposed runway extensionfrom 1.7 km to 3.5 kmwill enable Mysuru Airport to accommodate larger aircraft such as the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350. This upgrade is expected to enhance both domestic and international connectivity. With Mysurus proximity to Bengaluru and the newly built six-lane expressway reducing travel time between the two cities, there is a push to develop them as twin cities. Improved airport connectivity is expected to further facilitate travel. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Known for its heritage sites and yoga retreats, Mysuru is already a major wellness tourism destination. The governments modified UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, aimed at improving regional air connectivity, is expected to further support the citys growth as a tourism and business hub, according to officials in the Chief Ministers Office (CMO). An upgraded airport could also serve as a key driver of Mysurus economy, with tourism set to benefit significantly. The city, often referred to as the cultural capital of Karnataka, attracted over 50 lakh tourists in 2024 alone, a number that is expected to rise with better infrastructure, the government claimed. About the Author Rohini Swamy Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18s digital platform. She has previously worked with t... Read More Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18s digital platform. She has previously worked with t... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 14:01 IST Kerala Lottery Results LIVE: Nirmal NR-426 Winners For April 4, 2025 Soon; First Prize Rs 70 Lakh! Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 16:09 IST Kerala Lottery Result Today: Check the Live Updates and full list of winning numbers for Nirmal NR-426 lucky draw for Friday, April 4, 2025 here from 3 pm. Kerala Lottery Nirmal NR-426 Results: The first prize winner of Nirmal NR-426 will get Rs 70 lakh. (Image: Shutterstock) KERALA LOTTERY NIRMAL NR-426 RESULT Today, 4.4.2025, LIVE UPDATES: The Kerala State Lottery Department will release the results of the Nirmal Lottery NR-426 on Friday, April 4. The draw is scheduled for 3 PM at Gorky Bhavan, near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram. Participants have a chance to win significant cash prizes, with the first prize set at Rs 70 lakh, the second at Rs 10 lakh, and the third at Rs 1 lakh. To maintain fairness and transparency, independent judges will oversee the draw. Stay tuned to find out the lucky winning numbers. NIRMAL NR-426 LOTTERY: PRIZE STRUCTURE Recommended Stories 1st Prize: Rs 70 Lakh 2nd Prize: Rs 10 Lakh 3rd Prize: Rs 1 Lakh 4th Prize: Rs 5,000 5th Prize: Rs 1,000 6th Prize: Rs 500 7th Prize: Rs 100 Consolation Prize: Rs 8,000 NIRMAL NR-426 LOTTERY: WINNING NUMBERS WINNING NUMBER FOR 1ST PRIZE OF RS 70 LAKH IS: To be updated WINNING NUMBER FOR 2ND PRIZE OF RS 10 LAKH IS: To be updated WINNING NUMBER FOR 3RD PRIZE OF RS 1 LAKH ARE: To be updated WINNING NUMBERS FOR THE CONSOLATION PRIZE OF RS 8,000 ARE: To be updated WINNING NUMBERS FOR THE 4TH PRIZE OF RS 5,000 ARE: To be updated WINNING NUMBERS FOR THE 5TH PRIZE OF RS 1,000 ARE: To be updated WINNING NUMBERS FOR THE 6TH PRIZE OF RS 500 ARE: To be updated WINNING NUMBERS FOR THE 7TH PRIZE OF RS 100 ARE: To be updated HOW TO CHECK KERALA NIRMAL NR-426 LOTTERY RESULTS? Check the NIRMAL NR-426 results on the official Kerala Lottery website. Confirm the winning numbers at the Kerala Government Gazette office. Reach out to the Kerala Lottery Department for verified and official information.How to Claim the Prize Money? Refer to the official Kerala Government Gazette to confirm the lottery results and match them with your ticket number. If your ticket number is listed, you could be eligible for a prize. Prize winners must visit the Kerala Lottery Office in Thiruvananthapuram within 30 days of the announcement to claim their winnings. To collect the prize, winners must provide the original lottery ticket along with a valid identification document for verification. Documents Required to Claim Prize Money Provide a signed photocopy of both sides of the winning lottery ticket. Submit recent passport-sized photos, officially attested by a Gazetted officer, for verification. Include a self-attested copy of your PAN card as identity proof. Complete the official online prize claim form, attach a revenue stamp, and submit it. Present a valid government-issued ID, such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, or ration card, for authentication. HOW TO DOWNLOAD A PDF WITH A FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS? Visit the official Kerala Lottery Department websites: keralalotteries.info or keralalotteryresult.net. Locate and select the link for the Nirmal Lottery NR-426 results. The full list of winning numbers will be displayed in the results section. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Check for the download option on the website. Click the link to view and save the lottery results in PDF format. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More Location : Thiruvananthapuram [Trivandrum], India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 09:00 IST Let My Death Be A Lesson: BJP Worker Dies By Suicide, Alleges Harassment By Congress Leaders In Note Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 17:12 IST Vinay Somaiah was arrested for being the administrator of a WhatsApp group, Kodagu Issues and Suggestions, even though he maintained he was not directly involved in posting any defamatory content In the note, Somaiah detailed how he had been made an admin of the WhatsApp group just five days prior to the incident. (X) Vinay Somaiah, a Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker from Kodagu, who was arrested two months ago over derogatory messages posted on a WhatsApp group allegedly against Virajpet MLA and Chief Minister Siddaramaiahs legal advisor AS Ponnanna, has died by suicide in Bengaluru. Calls and messages to Ponnanna went unanswered. The copy will be updated on getting a response. Recommended Stories Somaiah was arrested for being the administrator of the WhatsApp group, Kodagu Issues and Suggestions. Although he maintained he was not directly involved in posting any defamatory content, he was booked under a politically charged first information report (FIR) and subsequently released on bail. His death has triggered protests across Kodagu, with BJP workers demanding justice. They allege that he was falsely implicated, defamed, and portrayed as a criminal, pushing him to take the extreme step. In a death note sent on WhatsApp that he posted on a WhatsApp group shortly before ending his life, Somaiah wrote, Let my death be a lesson." He alleged that he was forced to take this step due to political vendetta and humiliation. The police must investigate thoroughly before filing FIRs, instead of blindly registering them based on someones complaint. This message must circulate across all social media so that no innocent person suffers because of politically motivated FIRs," his note stated. Somaiah reportedly arrived at the BJP office in Thanisandra, East Bengaluru, on Thursday, stayed the night, and ended his life the next morning. The Bengaluru police will investigate the matter and take necessary action, said Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara. Tragic news coming in Karnataka we have lost a Karyakarta. His suicide note details targeted attacks by Congress leaders.Vinay, a BJP karyakarta from Kodagu, was hounded, shamed, and pushed to the brink with a politically motivated FIR, police harassment, and malicious social https://t.co/qWAAfvEXaS pic.twitter.com/cSFk49vQM7 Surabhi Hodigere (@SurabhiHodigere) April 4, 2025 THE SUICIDE NOTE In the note, Somaiah detailed how he had been made the administrator of the WhatsApp group just five days prior to the incident. I was held responsible and a politically motivated FIR was filed against me. This was done to portray me as a criminal and ruin my life," he wrote. He maintained that none of the messages he posted were defamatory and alleged that questions raised about development issues were twisted and weaponised against him. The FIR was filed based on a complaint by Congress worker. The Madikeri police booked three people, including Somaiah, under the case. He was later arrested and granted bail. Somaiah also named another man in his note, accusing him of repeatedly posting his photo in WhatsApp groups and branding him a criminal. They made my FIR go viral across Kodagu, along with my photo, branding me as a criminal even before the charges were proven. How can someone circulate my photo on social media without my permission just to defame me? Can you imagine what my family must have felt?" he wrote. #WATCH | Bengaluru, Karnataka | On phone tapping allegations made by BJP MLA from Raichur, Dr S Shivaraj Patil, Karnataka Minister Dr G Parameshwara says, I will speak to the SP, IG and DGP of that region. If such an incident has occurred, we will investigate the reason behind pic.twitter.com/zTKmbLYwPl ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2025 Another individual named Vinay had called Somaiahs friend and falsely accused him of discussing the Kodava-Gowda conflict. If I had made that call, let them produce it as proof," the note stated. He also alleged that a Congress MLA called him on WhatsApp and questioned him about the derogatory messages. Somaiah further claimed that he had not spoken to his mother until he got bail, and even after being released, the defamation continued. I also learned that they were planning to open a rowdy sheet against me. All those responsible must be punished. Only then will my death be justified," he wrote. He ended his note requesting the Karnataka BJP to support his family and secure their future. POLICE STATIONS HAVE BECOME CONGRESS OFFICES: OPPOSITION LEADER R ASHOK While visiting B.R. Ambedkar Hospital in Bengaluru, Opposition Leader R. Ashok spoke to the media regarding the case. Vinay was a well-educated person, and his wife is a software engineer. For the past 2-3 months, Congress MLAs and their close associate Tennira Mahina have been harassing him through the SP. The MLAs threats have been mentioned in the death note. Even after Vinay left Madikeri and came to his home in Bengaluru, the police continued to harass him. Police stations have become Congress offices," he said, expressing his outrage. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He further stated, The police are being used to settle political vendettas. A police officer who received the CMs medal has faced a Lokayukta raid. Action must be taken against those responsible for Vinays suicide, and a proper investigation is needed for that. The Kodagu SP should be suspended. We will decide on our course of action tomorrow. We have filed complaints against Tennira, Ponnanna, and Mantar Gowda." If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata) About the Author Rohini Swamy Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18s digital platform. She has previously worked with t... Read More Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18s digital platform. She has previously worked with t... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 16:20 IST MP Horror: On Camera, Elderly Woman, Son Thrashed By Daughter-In-Law, Family In Gwalior Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 21:41 IST The elderly woman was allegedly thrashed by her daughter-in-law for refusing to go to an old age home. When her son intervened, she called her family members and had her husband beaten up. In horrifying scenes, an elderly woman was thrashed by her daughter-in-law over a family dispute. (IANS) In a disturbing case from Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior, an elderly woman was brutally thrashed, thrown on the floor, dragged, pushed and hit on the head for reportedly refusing to go to an old age home. Shocking videos on social media showed an altercation breaking out at the house between the daughter-in-laws family and her husbands parents. The daughter-in-law also called men from his parents house and got her husband beaten up as well. Recommended Stories The elderly victim was identified as Sarla Batra, 70, who lived with his son Vishal, his wife Neelika and their grandchildren. She alleged that her daughter-in-law wanted to take over the familys property and tried to send her to an old age home. On the day of the incident, the daughter-in-law reportedly started to abuse the elderly woman over a minor household issue. When the womans son tried to intervene, Neelika called her father and brother for help, who barged in the house and verbally abused Sarla and started thrashing her son. Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh: An incident occurred in Adarsh Colony, where a video of a daughter-in-law, along with her brother, assaulting her mother-in-law and husband went viral. pic.twitter.com/BmhTQZllPr IANS (@ians_india) April 4, 2025 When the elderly woman tried to save her son, Neelima attacked her, pushed her to the ground, kicked her and even hit her head against the wall. The accused also threatened to kill them if they lodged a complaint, according to reports. Initially, the police reportedly did not file a case despite being shown the CCTV footage, allegedly under the influence of the accused. Later, they approached senior police officers, and an FIR was finally registered. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Robin Jain, DSP Headquarters Gwalior, confirmed that a case had been registered. The incident occurred 1-2 days back in Adarsh Colony where a daughter-in-law was seen assaulting both her mother-in-law and husband in a viral video," he told reporters. A formal complaint has been filed regarding the physical violence, and weve registered an offence," he added. Preliminary information suggests a family dispute triggered the altercation." About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Location : Gwalior, India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 21:41 IST Sarnath Buddha To UPs Silk Brocade Shawl: A Look At PM Modis Gifts For Thailands Dignitaries Published By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 19:19 IST From a brass Sarnath Buddha to silk brocade shawl from Uttar Pradesh, the gifts showcased Indian culture and tradition Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a visit to Wat Pho Temple, in Bangkok, Thailand. (PMO via PTI) During his Thailand visit on April 3-4, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a range of gifts to the dignitaries. Modi visited for Thailand the sixth BIMSTEC Summit. It was the PMs third visit to the country. From a brass Sarnath Buddha to silk brocade shawl from Uttar Pradesh, the gifts showcased Indian culture and tradition. Recommended Stories GIFT FOR KING OF THAILAND: BRASS SARNATH BUDDHA The brass statue of Sarnath Buddha in Dhyan Mudra is a stunning representation of Buddhist spirituality and Indian craftsmanship, inspired by the Sarnath style. Originating from Bihar, the statue reflects the Gupta and Pala art traditions with its serene expression, intricately detailed robe, and iconic lotus pedestal. The Dhyan Mudra posture symbolises deep meditation and inner peace, with the Buddha seated in Padmasana, radiating wisdom and compassion. The Prabhavali (backdrop), adorned with celestial beings and floral motifs, represents divine radiance, transforming the statue into a spiritual mandala. The ornate lotus base, decorated with the Dharmachakra and auspicious symbols, signifies purity and spiritual awakening. Made of brass, the statue embodies resilience and the eternal nature of Dharma, making it a powerful addition to meditation spaces, monasteries, or homesserving as a symbol of enlightenment and inner tranquility. A memorable visit to Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkalaram Ratchaworamahawihan Or Wat Pho!@ingshin pic.twitter.com/Yx0RoQX9A1 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 GIFT FOR QUEEN OF THAILAND: SILK BROCADE SHAWL Brocade silk shawl from Uttar Pradesh, particularly from Varanasi (Banaras), is a masterpiece of Indias rich weaving tradition. Crafted from the finest silk, it features intricate motifs depicting village life, divine celebrations, and nature, inspired by Indian miniature and Pichwai art. The shawls vivid color palettereds, blues, greens, and yellowssymbolizes joy and auspiciousness, while a broad ornamental border in deep pink, magenta, and gold adds a regal touch. Beyond its visual splendor, the shawl boasts a soft, warm, and luxurious drape, with skilled artisans dedicating weeks of meticulous craftsmanship to create each unique piece. GIFT FOR PM OF THAILAND: BRASS DOKRA PEACOCK THEMED BOAT Dokra Brass Peacock Boat with Tribal Rider is a stunning example of traditional Indian metal craft, originating from the tribal communities of Chhattisgarh. Made using the ancient lost-wax casting technique, each piece is handcrafted and unique. The sculpture features a peacock-shaped boat, symbolizing grace and cultural imagination, with intricate patterns and colorful lacquer inlays. A tribal rider, calmly rowing, represents the harmony between humans and nature, a central theme in Dokra art. Crafted in brass, the piece develops a rich patina over time, enhancing its antique charm. Beyond its decorative appeal, this artifact preserves Indias tribal heritage, embodying simplicity, creativity, and connection to nature. GIFT FOR SPOUSE OF THAILAND PM: SILVER-GOLD CUFFLINKS The gold-plated tiger motif cufflinks with pearls blend tradition, artistry, and modern sophistication. Featuring a majestic tiger face, they symbolize courage, leadership, and royalty. Intricate Meenakari work, a heritage craft from Rajasthan and Gujarat, adds vibrant enamel detailing, reflecting Indias rich jewellery traditions. A pearl bead border softens the bold design, creating a balance of strength and elegance. Crafted in high-quality silver with gold plating, these cufflinks come with a bullet-back closure, ensuring durability and ease of wear. More than accessories, they are wearable pieces of heritage. GIFT FOR THAKSIN SHINAWATRA, FORMER THAILAND PM: BRASS URLI WITH PEACOCK AND DIYA (LAMP) The Brass Urli with Peacock and Diya from Andhra Pradesh is a masterpiece of traditional brass craftsmanship, symbolizing purity, positivity, and abundance. Traditionally used for rituals and festive decorations, this urli is often filled with water, flowers, or floating candles, while the diya (oil lamp) enhances its spiritual significance. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Renowned for its intricate carvings and flawless finishing, this piece reflects Andhra Pradeshs rich metalwork heritage. Its gleaming brass polish adds a regal charm, making it a timeless addition to both traditional and modern interiors. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 19:14 IST Student From Rajasthan Studying MBBS In Kazakhstan Dies Due To Heart Attack Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 16:15 IST Utkarsh Sharma, an MBBS student at SIM Cantt University, Kazakhstan, passed away from a heart attack. He was a promising student and athlete from Alwar, sent by his father, Dr. Shailendra Sharma Utkarsh was rushed to the hospital, where the doctors declared him dead due to a heart attack. (Representative/Shutterstock) In a tragic turn of events, Utkarsh Sharma, a young man from Vivekanand Nagar, Alwar, who aspired to become a doctor, lost his life while studying MBBS in Kazakhstan. Utkarsh, a 12th pass student, had been sent to Kazakhstan by his father, Dr. Shailendra Sharma, to fulfil his dream of becoming a doctor. He was pursuing his medical studies at Shymkent University, Kazakhstan. Recommended Stories Utkarshs family had high hopes for his future and dreamt that he would return to India as a practising doctor. However, destiny had other plans. While Utkarsh was excelling in his studies and was also known as a great athlete, having won numerous medals in national and state games, tragedy struck. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all According to Dr. Shailendra Sharma, Utkarsh had spoken to his family earlier in the day. He had gone to the gym in the evening, and upon returning, he had dinner and went for a walk. Suddenly, he experienced severe chest pain upon his return to his room. He was rushed to the hospital, where the doctors declared him dead due to a heart attack. Friends informed the family and urged them to come immediately. Many Indian students, like Utkarsh, choose to study MBBS in Kazakhstan due to the lower fees. Location : Kazakhstan First Published: April 04, 2025, 16:15 IST Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 21:02 IST Union minority affairs minister Kiren Rijiju speaks in the Rajya Sabha during the budget session of Parliament, in New Delhi on April 3. (Image: Sansad TV/PTI) Waqf Amendment Bill Live: Rajya Sabha gave its nod to the Waqf Amendment Bill late on Thursday night, and the Bill was passed following an over 13-hour debate. While the Opposition objected to the Bill calling it anti-Muslim and unconstitutional, the BJP-led government responded to it by referring to it as the historic reform would benefit the minority community. The Bill was passed with 128 votes in favour and 95 opposing it. Reacting to the news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill of 2025 was a watershed moment and that this would help the marginalised, who have been denied both voice and opportunity. Meanwhile, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that the party will challenge the bill very soon in Supreme Court. PM Modi Emphasises Indias 'Act East Policy At BIMSTEC Meet: 'Development, Not Expansionism' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 11:24 IST PM Modi At BIMSTEC: PM Modi stated that both nations support a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific order and focus on development and not expansionism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi (PTI Photo) Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted Indias Act East Policy during BIMSTEC Summit as India and Thailand upgraded their relationship to a strategic partnership. PM Modi stated that both nations support a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific order and focus on development and not expansionism. PM Modi is in Thailand on a two-day visit to attend the 6th BIMSTEC summit. During the BIMSTEC meet, he said, India firmly supports ASEAN unity and ASEAN centrality. In the Indo-Pacific region, both countries advocate a free, open, inclusive and rule-based order. We believe in development and not expansionism. We welcome Thailands decision to co-lead the Maritime Ecology Pillar of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative." Recommended Stories PM Modi stated that Thailand and India agreed on closely collaborating to fight human trafficking and illegal migration. The partnership will also focus on enhancing cooperation in tourism, culture, and education between Thailand and Indias North-Eastern states. PM Modi said, We have emphasized on cooperation in the fields of tourism, culture and education between Thailand and the North-Eastern states of India. We discussed growing mutual trade, investment, and business exchanges. Agreements have also been made to foster cooperation in the areas of MSME, handloom and handicrafts." He added, We have decided to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy, digital technology, e-vehicles, robotics, space, bio-technology and start-ups. In addition to enhancing physical connectivity, both the countries will work to boost FinTech connectivity." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all India has begun issuing free e-visas to Thai tourists to promote people-to-people exchanges. PM Modi also highlighted the age-old cultural and religious ties between India and Thailand and said, There has been an exchange of scholars from Ayutthaya to Nalanda. The story of Ramayana is deeply embedded in Thai folk life and the influences of Sanskrit and Pali are still reflected in languages and traditions." About the Author Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" First Published: April 04, 2025, 11:12 IST Alia Bhatt Redefines Corporate Chic In A Sage Green Ruffled Top And A Structured Grey Blazer Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 08:44 IST For her recent appearance, Alia Bhatt opted for a corporate core aesthetic in a sage green top that she had paired with a structured blazer. Alia Bhatt was styled by celebrity stylist Priyanka Kapadia. Alia Bhatt recently attended an event where she served a major fashion moment in a chic and smart suit set. The actor took to her social media to share pictures from the event. Her OOTD has become the talk of the town because it seamlessly combines the structured elements of a suit with dainty, feminine touches. She paired the suit set with a minimal sunkissed makeup look and won points with the fashion police. Taking to her Instagram, Alia Bhatt shared a series of pictures from the 25th anniversary of Make My Trip. The actor had attended the event and was seen sharing the space with comedian Tanmay Bhatt. She wrote, 25 years of making every trip memorable. Congratulations on this beautiful milestone @makemytrip!" Recommended Stories Take a look at Alias OOTD here. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alia Bhatt (@aliaabhatt) top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all For the event, Alia opted for a sage green ruffled top by Alberta Ferretti. The top came with a V-neckline and a ruffled detail. The delicate ruffled details added a soft, feminine allure to the top. She paired this top with matching sheer pants from the same brand. The soft sage green hue of her ensemble was a refreshing pick. She layered these delicate pieces with a structured grey blazer by Magda Butrym. The blazer came with a structured shoulder and a sharp lapel design. She left the front buttons open to let the ruffled design of her top take the centre stage. She slipped into a pair of white Jimmy Choo Diamond Tilda Leather Pumps. For the accessories, she went with a pair of gold faux mini hoop earrings, and she also added a set of statement rings to her fingers. For the glam, she opted for a minimal sunkissed look. The actor went with a radiant and dewy base. She defined her eyes with a sparkly orange shade on her eyelids and mascara. She added a light sweep of contour to bring out her features and also added a swipe of peachy pink blush for that flush of colour. She added a gold highlighter on her cheekbones for some shine. She added a caramel nude hued shade to her lips and tied her hair up in a messy and voluminous low ponytail to complete her demure look. fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 08:44 IST Chaitra Navratri 2025 Day 6: Celebrate Goddess Katyayani Puja With These Protein-Rich Vrat Recipes Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 06:00 IST Chaitra Navratri 2025 Vrat Recipes: On Day 6 of this auspicious festival, keep yourself healthy with these protein-rich vrat-friendly recipes. Day 6 of Chaitra Navratri 2025 is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani. Chaitra Navratri 2025 Vrat Recipes: Hindu devotees across the globe are celebrating Chaitra Navratri. April 4 marks Day 6 of this auspicious festival. The sixth day is dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, the warrior form of Maa Durga. Known as the goddess of courage and strength, she is often depicted riding a lion and holding a sword. It is believed that worshipping Maa Katyayani helps remove obstacles, brings harmony in relationships, and fulfills desires, especially for those seeking marital happiness. Her fierce yet compassionate nature symbolizes the balance of power and devotion. The colour associated with this day is green, representing renewal, energy, and prosperity. As fasting continues, here are three vrat-friendly protein-rich recipes that will help you stay physically and spiritually strong. Recommended Stories Dates Roll Ingredients 10 deseeded fresh dates 4 tbsp peanut butter 2 tbsp desiccated coconut For the peanut butter 2 cups (300 grams) peanuts 1/2 tsp salt 1-2 tsp honey 1-3 tsp peanut oil Method For the peanut butter Grind the peanuts with peanut oil, sea salt and honey. Bring it to a smooth paste consistency. For the Dates roll Deseed the dates and fill with the peanut butter. Roll it in dessicated coconut and serve immediately. Khoa Paratha Ingredients 1 cup Rajgeera flour 1 cup khoa Water as required 1 tbsp Ghee Salt to taste Method Step 1: In a bowl, add Rajgeera flour. Add in the salt and pour water. Knead into a soft dough. Step 2: In a pan, roast khoa till it turns slightly golden. Step 3: Make small-sized balls of the dough. Roll it in a roti. Step 4: Spread the roasted khoa mix and place another roti on it. Step 5: Roast the roti on a medium flame. Apply ghee. Serve hot. Protein Fruit Smoothie Ingredients 1 Banana 1 scoop protein powder 1 cup yogurt top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Method In a blender, blend these ingredients together until smooth. Add water to adjust the consistency. Serve it in a glass. fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 06:00 IST International Day For Mine Awareness And Assistance In Mine Action 2025: All You Need To Know Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 10:32 IST International Day For Mine Awareness And Assistance In Mine Action not only emphasises the urgent need for collective action to address these hazards but also acknowledges the progress made in global mine action activities. International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action 2025 theme is Safe Futures Star Here. (Image: Shutterstock) International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action is observed on April 4, every year to spread awareness about the threats caused by landmines and explosives remnants of war (ERW) to the safety, health and lives of civilians and encourage state governments to develop mine-clearing programmes. This day not only emphasises the urgent need for collective action to address these hazards but also acknowledges the progress made in global mine action activities. Recommended Stories As we observe this day today, weve mentioned all the details, that you need to know about the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. Take a look: According to the United Nations, this year, the day will be observed under the theme Safe Futures Star Here. Every year on this day, United Nations-supported platforms collaborate and implement actions to mitigate the threat posed by mines and explosives. According to the UN, such explosive devices kill or injure one person every hour. It also affects youngsters. The history of International Day of Mine Awareness dates back to December 2005, when the United Nations General Assembly named April 4 as the official day to recognise the importance of mine action. The first International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action was observed in 2006. As per the UN, the 28th International Meeting of Mine Action National Directors and United Nations Advisers (NDM-UN28) will be co-hosted by the United Nations Mine Action Service and the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining from April 9 to 11. The meeting aims to bring together mining action leaders and experts to network and share views on the sectors urgent concerns. Over the last nearly two decades, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNAMS) has prioritised the needs of affected individuals while also adapting to the risks that humanitarians face. The International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action is quite significant as it aims to make the world free of landmines and explosives remains of war, allowing individuals and communities to survive in a safe environment. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The day also helps security forces conduct patrols, help organisations, promote awareness of mines among people living in dangerous environments, and teach them how to live fearlessly and without risking their lives. Some of the mine-prone areas in the world include Cambodia, Columbia, Ukraine, Sudan, Afghanistan and certain areas of Latin America, Africa and Asia. About the Author Nibandh Vinod Nibandh Vinod is a seasoned journalist with 26 years of experience, specializing in covering events, festivals, and driving SEO content for News18.com. A tech-savvy person, Nibandh works closely with a young te... Read More Nibandh Vinod is a seasoned journalist with 26 years of experience, specializing in covering events, festivals, and driving SEO content for News18.com. A tech-savvy person, Nibandh works closely with a young te... Read More fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: April 04, 2025, 07:00 IST New Pamban Bridge Set To Open On April 6: 5 Things That You Must Do In Rameswaram Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 15:02 IST The New Pamban Bridge is all set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 6. The bridge will connect Rameswaram Island with Tamil Nadu mainland. A train travelling at 30 kmph will require one minute and 45 seconds to traverse the bridge. (News18) After much anticipation, the New Pamban Bridge which will connect Rameswaram Island with the Tamil Nadu mainland is all set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 6. The 2.2 km long vertical lift sea bridge is the first of its kind in India. This bridge is all set to give travel opportunities to tourists and locals, thereby opening new avenues for economic growth in the region. As the New Pamban Bridge gears up for its inauguration, here are five things that you can do in Rameswaram. Recommended Stories Visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is also a part of the Char Dham yatra. The temple is famous for its grand architecture, intricately carved corridors (the longest temple corridor in India), and 22 holy wells inside the complex, each believed to have unique healing properties. Explore the New Pamban Bridge The bridge offers spectacular views of the Bay of Bengal. Watching a train pass over the bridge with the sea underneath is a sight to behold. Relax at Dhanushkodi Beach Located at the southeastern tip of Rameswaram, Dhanushkodi is a ghost town destroyed in the 1964 cyclone. It has an eerie, serene charm with the remains of old churches, railway stations, and houses. Legend has it that this was the starting point of Lord Ramas bridge to Lanka. Visit Abdul Kalam Memorial Rameswaram is the hometown of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Indias beloved former President and Missile Man. The Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial in Pei Karumbu honours his life and achievements. The memorial houses his personal belongings, photographs, and models of missiles and rockets he worked on. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Take a Spiritual Walk on Agni Theertham Just outside the Ramanathaswamy Temple lies Agni Theertham, a sacred beach where pilgrims take a holy dip before entering the temple. It is believed that taking a dip here washes away sins and purifies the soul. fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 15:02 IST Its A Shame: Rasha Thadani, Sonakshi Sinha SLAM Deforestation In Hyderabad's Kancha Gachibowli Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 16:17 IST Rasha Thadani and Sonakshi Sinha voiced their opposition to the deforestation in the Kancha Gachibowli area near Hyderabad. The Supreme Court has stayed the clearing of 400-acre green cover. Rasha Thadani and Sonakshi Sinha voice their concerns over the deforestation at Kancha Gachibowli Bollywood actresses Sonakshi Sinha and Rasha Thadani have strongly voiced their concerns over the deforestation at Kancha Gachibowli near the University of Hyderabad campus. Raveena Tandons daughter Rasha questioned the destruction of biodiversity in the name of development. She added that it is a shame to see our country, which is blessed with forests and biodiversity, gasping for clean air. Meanwhile, Sonakshi Sinha also slammed the rapid clearing of 400-acre green cover. Meanwhile, as per the latest update, the Supreme Court has stayed the deforestation drive at the biodiversity-rich area, until further orders. Sonakshi Sinha re-shared an Instagram post that read, In Japan, trees are carefully relocated instead of being cut for construction." Expressing her disapproval over the tree felling in Kancha Gachibowli, she added, And here we just cut down 400 acres of forest overnight. No biggie." Meanwhile, on Friday, Rasha Thadani shared a note on her Instagram stories, in which she highlighted the importance of forests. Our India is blessed with biodiversity. Rich, dense forests, home to countless species of birds, animals and plants. Yet, we silently watch as they continue to disappear in the name of development. How much more suffering does our wildlife need to go through!!?" she wrote. Recommended Stories She further added, Unfortunately, Us humans are selfish, we only think for our own benefit. With that being said, our country struggles with pollution, we NEED these jungles for clean air, clean water and a healthier future. If not for nature itself, protect our wildlife for our survival!! Every tree cut, every jungle lost, brings us closer to crisis. Temperatures are soaring, water is disappearing. WE NEED OUR FORESTS. Cutting the forests down for development is a contradictory statement. What will we do with this development" without a healthy and clean place, go live, breathe, survive!?" She then added that people from all over the world come to visit forests in India, that have some of the rarest species, and while tourists are completely amazed, we do not understand its value. Its a shame to see our country so BLESSED with forests and biodiversity, and yet were gasping for clean air," wrote Rasha. For the unversed, the Kancha Gachibowli area near the University of Hyderabad has been at the center of major controversy due to its deforestation activities. Tensions ran high at the University of Hyderabad as a scuffle erupted between students and police after authorities barricaded the east campus, where excavators were clearing forested land. The land is set to be auctioned, with the government eyeing a massive revenue boost of Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 crore. The proposed plan includes the development of world-class IT parks and urban spaces. The Supreme Court has intervened, halting all tree-felling activities in the Kancha Gachibowli area. On Thursday, the SC stayed the deforestation drive. Taking note of tree felling, the top court directed the Telangana government to ensure no tree felling in the area. In the order, the apex court noted that the news items shows that the authorities, taking advantage of long holidays over the weekend, have rushed through in felling the trees". Additionally, the forest is said to be home to eight species of scheduled animals," read the order, as reported by Bar & Bench. First Published: April 04, 2025, 16:17 IST Kesari Chapter 2 Trailer: Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan Clash In Riveting Story Of Jallianwala Bagh Aftermath Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 03, 2025, 16:47 IST Kesari 2 Trailer: Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan and Ananya Panday star in this gripping narrative on the aftermaths of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The trailer of Kesari 2 is out now. Kesari Chapter 2 Trailer: Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan, and Ananya Panday have joined hands for the first time in the Dharma-backed film, which depicts the untold story of the aftermath of the brutal Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar. After a gripping teaser, the makers have finally unveiled the films trailer, which takes us deeper into the films chilling storyline. Also Read: Kesari 3 Update Recommended Stories Akshay Kumar plays Sir C Sankaran Nair, the fearless lawyer who fought an unprecedented battle against the British empire in the 1920s after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. He is pitted against R Madhavan, a lawyer defending the British. Ananya plays a female lawyer who shatters stereotypes by standing up for Indians amid a sea of male lawyers. The trailer brings out the struggle of Indians who fought for injustic and were subject to shame and ridicule by the tyrant British empire. Watch the trailer of Kesari Chapter 2 here: Kesari Chapter 2 was previously slated for release on March 14, 2025. Helmed by Karan Singh Tyagi, the film is based on the book, The Case That Shook the Empire, by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat. Also Read: Akshay Kumar Reveals Why Kesari Chapter 2 Is Personal Film For Him An excerpt from the books synopsis reads: The widely-reported trial one of the longest in history stunned a world that finally recognized some of the horrors being committed by the British in India. Through reports of court proceedings along with a nuanced portrait of a complicated nationalist who believed in his principles above all else, The Case That Shook the Empire reveals, for the very first time, the real details of the fateful case that marked the defining moment in Indias struggle for Independence." Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh is backed by Dharma Productions, Cape of Good Films, Leo Media Collective. The film is directed by Karan Singh Tyagi. It stars Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan and Ananya Panday in lead roles. The film releases on April 18, 2025. First Published: April 03, 2025, 13:04 IST Manoj Kumar Death: PM Modi Says 'He Was An Icon Of Indian Cinema'; President Murmu 'Saddened' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 10:09 IST Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned the death of legendary actor-director Manoj Kumar, calling him an icon of Indian cinema. Kumar passed away at Kokilaben Hospital. PM Modi pays tribute to Manoj Kumar. (Photo: X) Manoj Kumar Death: Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to his X handle on Friday morning to mourn the death of the legendary actor-director Manoj Kumar. In his post, PM Modi called Kumar an icon" of Indian cinema and paid tribute to the actor. He also expressed his condolences to Kumars family. Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Jis works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti," PM Modi wrote, as he also shared a throwback picture with Kumar. Check it out here: Recommended Stories Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Jis works ignited a spirit of national pride and will pic.twitter.com/f8pYqOxol3 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 President Droupadi Murmu Saddened President Droupadi Murmu also took to her X handle to mourn the death of Manoj Kumar. Saddened by the demise of legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar Ji. He has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. During his long and distinguished career he came to be known for his patriotic films which promoted a sense of pride in Indias contribution and values. The iconic characters of national heroes, farmers and soldiers he brought to life will remain etched in our collective memory. His cinema will instil national pride and inspire generations to come," she wrote and expressed her condolences to the family. Saddened by the demise of legendary actor and film-maker Manoj Kumar Ji. He has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. During his long and distinguished career he came to be known for his patriotic films which promoted a sense of pride in Indias contribution and values. The President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 4, 2025 Among others, Union Minister Rajnath Singh also remembered Manoj Kumar and talked about his unforgettable performances". Shri Manoj Kumar ji was a versatile actor, who would always be remembered for making films full of patriotism. Popularly known as Bharat Kumar his unforgettable performances in films like Upkaar, Purab and Paschim have enriched our culture and have endeared him to people across generations. His cinematic legacy will live on through his works. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," he wrote. Manoj Kumar was known for acting in and directing films with patriotic themes. Some of his popular works include Shaheed" (1965), Upkar" (1967), Purab Aur Paschim" (1970), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan" (1974). Because of his association with such movies, the actor was also widely called Bharat Kumar". Kumar also directed several other popular films like Hariyali Aur Raasta", Woh Kaun Thi", Himalaya Ki God Mein", Do Badan", Patthar Ke Sanam", Neel Kamal", and Kranti". He was also honoured with the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015 for his contributions to Indian cinema. About the Author Chirag Sehgal Chirag Sehgal works as a Sub-Editor in the Entertainment team at News18.com. With an experience of five years in the media industry, he largely focuses on Indian television coverage. Apart from bringing breakin... Read More Chirag Sehgal works as a Sub-Editor in the Entertainment team at News18.com. With an experience of five years in the media industry, he largely focuses on Indian television coverage. Apart from bringing breakin... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 08:55 IST Manoj Kumar's Son Gets Emotional, Remembers Actor's Last Moments: 'He Was In Pain' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 11:54 IST Veteran actor-director Manoj Kumar passed away at 87. His son, Kunal Goswami, shared his father's last moments and mentioned his long health battle. Manoj Kumar's last rites will be held on April 5. Manoj Kumar Death: Hours after veteran actor-director Manoj Kumars death, his son, Kunal Goswami, spoke to the news agency ANI when he talked about his fathers last moments and got emotional. Goswami mentioned that Manoj Kumar was unwell for a long time due to age-related health issues. He also revealed that the actors final rites will take place on Saturday, April 5. My father, Manoj Kumar, passed away today at 3:30 AM at Kokilaben Hospital. He had been feeling unwell for a long time, but he fought every hurdle with resilience and grace. He peacefully breathed his last by Gods grace and Sai Babas blessings. His cremation will take place tomorrow. Sia Ram," Manoj Kumars son said. Recommended Stories Also Read: Manoj Kumar Death Reason | Intresting Facts About Manoj Kumar He had been unwell for many years. He was about to turn 88 next month, but at 87, he bid goodbye to the world," he added. Goswami further talked about his fathers bond with the family and said, Usually, he would interact a lot with his grandchildren and the younger kids in the family. He was very family-oriented and happy. But in recent times, he was in some pain due to age-related illnesses." Meanwhile, the entire nation is mourning the loss of Kumar. From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Bollywood stars including Akshay Kumar; several people took to their respective social media handles to pay tributes to Bharat Kumar. Manoj Kumar was known for acting in and directing films with patriotic themes. Some of his popular works include Shaheed" (1965), Upkar" (1967), Purab Aur Paschim" (1970), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan" (1974). Because of his association with such movies, the actor was also widely called Bharat Kumar". Kumar also directed several other popular films like Hariyali Aur Raasta", Woh Kaun Thi", Himalaya Ki God Mein", Do Badan", Patthar Ke Sanam", Neel Kamal", and Kranti". He was also honoured with the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015 for his contributions to Indian cinema. About the Author Chirag Sehgal Chirag Sehgal works as a Sub-Editor in the Entertainment team at News18.com. With an experience of five years in the media industry, he largely focuses on Indian television coverage. Apart from bringing breakin... Read More Chirag Sehgal works as a Sub-Editor in the Entertainment team at News18.com. With an experience of five years in the media industry, he largely focuses on Indian television coverage. Apart from bringing breakin... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 11:01 IST Rashmika Mandanna To Ring In Her 29th Birthday With Friends In Oman? Heres What we Know Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 14:35 IST Rashmika Mandanna is currently shooting for Ayushmann Khurrana starrer Thama. Rashmika Mandanna to celebrate her birthday in Oman Rashmika Mandanna is currently seen in Salman Khan starrer Sikandar. The action drama has received mixed responses from the audience. Well, now the actress will be soon turning 29 and reportedly, she will be celebrating her birthday in Oman with friends. India Today has reported claiming that she wants to spend quality time. The portal quoted sources close to the actor revealing that Rashmika wanted to take a break from her hectic shooting schedules and spend quality time with her inner circle in Oman. It seemed like the perfect getaway for the celebration. She is expected to enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure, exploring the rich culture of the Middle Eastern country. Recommended Stories Recently, Gaiety Galaxy owner Manoj Desai has opened up about the public opinion and slammed Salman Khan for killing Rashmikas character so early in the film. In an interview with Vickey Lalwani Desai said, I have gotten reviews from the public, and trade analyst Komal Nahta also told me that, What was the need to kill the heroine so early on in the film? What complex did you have? And then, when you take the film forward, if you feel something isnt right aap kyu asal mein Salman Khan dikhte nahi ho (Why doesnt the real Salman Khan come forth in the film?)" He further said, I know you will feel bad because of my interview because I am your friend, and Gaiety Galaxy is your second home but I am telling what the public is telling me. I cant lie because this is what public is saying." Manoj even spoke to producer Sajid Nadiadwala and he reassured him that the film will work. On its fifth day, the film earned an estimated Rs 5.75 crore in India across all languages, bringing its total India net collection to Rs 90 crore in its first week, according to Sacnilk.com. By Tuesday, the film had amassed Rs 74.50 crore in India, while its worldwide collection stood at Rs 123.75 crore. The overseas market played a significant role, contributing Rs 88.75 crore. The makers had earlier celebrated Sikandar grossing Rs 105.89 crore worldwide in just two days. However, despite a solid opening, the film has faced hurdles, including online leaks and mixed critical reviews. Directed by A.R. Murugadoss, the action-packed film features a star-studded cast, including Kajal Aggarwal, Suniel Shetty, Sathyaraj, Prateik Babbar, and Sharman Joshi. The story follows Salmans character, Sikandar, on a relentless mission to seek justice and protect the three individuals who received organ donations from his late wife. About the Author Akriti Anand Akriti Anand is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. A news writer with over a decade of experience, Akriti loves to keep a close watch on Bollywood celebrities and their social media. A post-g... Read More Akriti Anand is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. A news writer with over a decade of experience, Akriti loves to keep a close watch on Bollywood celebrities and their social media. A post-g... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 14:35 IST Manoj Kumar Death: Interesting Facts About Bharat Kumar's Life That You Must Know Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 10:10 IST Throughout his career, Manoj Kumar was a pivotal figure in Indian cinema, excelling not only as a celebrated actor but also as a visionary director behind several timeless classics. Manoj Kumar passed away due to heart complications. (Photo: X) Manoj Kumar, the iconic actor celebrated for his patriotic roles, passed away on April 4 in Mumbai following heart-related complications. A towering presence in Indian cinema, he wasnt just a gifted actor but also a visionary filmmaker behind timeless classics like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, Kranti, and Clerk. Fondly known as Bharat Kumar" for his nationalistic portrayals, Manoj Kumar left an indelible mark on Bollywood. His immense contribution to Indian cinema earned him the Padma Shri in 1992 and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. His final directorial venture was the 1999 film Jai Hind, starring his son Kunal Goswami. As the nation pays tribute to the legendary star, here are some fascinating insights into his remarkable journey. 1 Manoj Kumar, born Harikrishna Giri Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), spent his early years in the same city where Osama Bin Laden was killed decades later in 2011. Recommended Stories 2 Inspired by his favourite actor Dilip Kumars character in the 1949 film Shabnam, Manoj Kumar decided to change his stage name. 3 At the tender age of 10, he and his family were forced to flee to Delhi after the Partition. Amid the chaos, he suffered a personal tragedylosing his infant brother to the violence. 4 The veteran star made his acting debut in the 1957 film Fashion, where he played a beggar, but the film didnt help him gain any recognition. 5 During his early days, Manoj Kumar worked as a ghostwriter in various studios, where he earned just Rs 11 per scene. 6 After the 1965 Indo-Pak War, Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri encouraged Manoj Kumar to create a film based on the slogan Jai Jawan Jai Kisan and this led to his directorial debut Upkaar in 1967. 7 In 1989, Manoj Kumar made a bold move by casting Pakistani actors Mohammad Ali and Zeba in his film Clerk. 8 The actor received a standing ovation when he was brought on stage in a wheelchair to receive the highest honour in Indian cinema at Vigyan Bhavan. 9 After Kranti, his career declined and he quit acting after Maidan-E-Jung in 1995. He later returned to direct his son, Kunal Goswami in the film Jai Hind. 10 Manoj Kumar was survived by his wife, Shashi Goswami and his two sons, Vishal Goswami and Kunal Goswami. About the Author Kashvi Raj Singh Kashvi Raj Singh is a News Trainee at News18. She extensively covers Bollywood, Hollywood and television. She not only keeps an eye out for interesting news angles but also often writes social commentary in lon... Read More Kashvi Raj Singh is a News Trainee at News18. She extensively covers Bollywood, Hollywood and television. She not only keeps an eye out for interesting news angles but also often writes social commentary in lon... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 09:42 IST Shah Rukh Khan Apologised To Manoj Kumar After Om Shanti Om Release, Said 'I Was Wrong' | Full Story Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 12:51 IST Manoj Kumar was offended by a scene in Shah Rukh Khan's film Om Shanti Om. Despite SRK's apology and scene removal in India, it was included in Japan, leading to a legal suit. Manoj Kumar passed away in the wee hours of April 4. As the nation mourns the death of Manoj Kumar, heres an incident when the veteran actor-director was left offended" with Shah Rukh Khans film Om Shanti Om. Released in 2007, the film marked Deepika Padukones entry into the film industry. However, Kumar was disappointed with a particular scene in the Farah Khan directorial. In one of the scenes in the film, Shah Rukh Khans character, Om, was seen entering a movie premiere by stealing the veteran actors pass. This left Manoj Kumar disappointed. The veteran actor had asked Farah Khan to remove the scene from the film. The makers also agreed to his demand, and the scene was deleted while the film was being premiered in India. Recommended Stories Later, Shah Rukh Khan also apologized to Kumar while interacting with the media and said, I was completely wrongIf he is hurt, I apologise. I called him in the afternoon, and the first thing he said to me was it is no big deal, son.'" People do parodyIt is a done thing. I should have been over-careful I should have called him earlier (to tell him about the spoof)," the superstar added, as quoted by NDTV. However, the incident did not end here. Six years later, Om Shanti Om re-released in Japan and the controversial scene was not omitted from it this time. Therefore, Manoj Kumar once again raised objections and filed a legal suit against SRK. He accused Shah Rukh Khan of mocking him and sought compensation of Rs 100 crore. He (Shah Rukh Khan) promised Manoj Kumar earlier but repeated this mistake again in Japan No personal apology was given by SRK He is not in a mood for any settlement," Kumars lawyer said in 2013. The film was released in Japan without deleting those scenes. I had forgiven them twice but not this time. They have disrespected me. They also face contempt of court as in 2008 the court had asked them to forever and from all prints and broadcast material, delete those scenes," Manoj Kumar also added. After a long legal battle, Manoj Kumar withdrew cases against Shah Rukh Khan and Farah Khan. About the Author Chirag Sehgal Chirag Sehgal works as a Sub-Editor in the Entertainment team at News18.com. With an experience of five years in the media industry, he largely focuses on Indian television coverage. Apart from bringing breakin... Read More Chirag Sehgal works as a Sub-Editor in the Entertainment team at News18.com. With an experience of five years in the media industry, he largely focuses on Indian television coverage. Apart from bringing breakin... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 12:51 IST Shah Rukh Khan Mourns Legend Manoj Kumars Death: You Will Always Be Bharat To Us Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 18:31 IST Legendary actor-director Manoj Kumar passed away on Friday. Shah Rukh Khan paid a heartfelt tribute, acknowledging his significant contribution to Indian cinema. Shah Rukh Khan condoles Manoj Kumar's death Veteran Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar passed away on Friday morning, leaving behind a huge void in the film industry. A number of Bollywood celebrities took to their social media to mourn the death of the actor-director. Shah Rukh Khan has also paid a heartfelt tribute to the legend, acknowledging his significant contribution to Indian cinema. He shared that Manoj Kumars films promoted patriotism, and uplifted our country and our cinema, and that he will always be fondly remembered as Bharat Kumar. Shah Rukh Khan shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) that read, Manoj Kumar ji made films that uplifted our country, our cinema, and focused on unity with unmatched sincerity. A legend in every sense. His films shaped an era and left a mark on our cinema. Thank you, sir. You will always be Bharat to us." Check out his post below. Recommended Stories Manoj Kumar ji made films that uplifted our country, our cinema, and focused on unity with unmatched sincerity. A legend in every sense. His films shaped an era and left a mark on our cinema. Thank you, sir. You will always be Bharat to us. Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) April 4, 2025 Manoj Kumar was known for acting in and directing films with patriotic themes. Some of his popular works include Shaheed" (1965), Upkar" (1967), Purab Aur Paschim" (1970), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan" (1974). Because of his association with the patriotic films, the actor was also widely called Bharat Kumar. Salman Khans Tribute To Manoj Kumar Meanwhile, earlier today, Salman Khan also mourned Manoj Kumars death. He took to his social media, and wrote, Manoj Kumar Ji a true legend. Thank you for the unforgettable films and memories (sic)." Aamir Khan Remembers Manoj Kumar Aamir Khan also released a statement with his condolences for Manoj Kumar. Manoj Kumar was not just an actor, and film-maker, he was an institution. I have learnt so much watching his films. His films were often based on important social themes which brought him really close to the common man. My heartfelt condolences to his family," he expressed. Manoj Kumars son Kunal Goswami confirmed the news of the actor-directors death, revealing that he had been facing age-related health issues for a long time. Manoj Kumar was 87. He has had health-related issues for a long time. Its the grace of god that he bid adieu to this world peacefully. His cremation will take place tomorrow," Kunal told ANI. First Published: April 04, 2025, 18:26 IST Some estimates suggest there are a staggering 40 to 50 million feral pigs in Australia. With millions of feral pigs culled each year, Aussie company Natures Fare is using the unwanted protein to create ready made meals. Source: Getty/Natures Fare An Aussie company is taking an innovative approach to help tackle the countrys spiralling feral pig problem. With some estimates suggesting the pests population has surged to a staggering 40 or 50 million, the battle to eradicate the destructive invasive species from farms, private properties and national parks has been well documented over the years. Last year, hunters killed more than 5.3 million feral pigs, according to the Australian Pig Doggers and Hunters Association (APDHA), with one tradie recently revealing to Yahoo News that he and his family scored free accomodation in rural NSW in return for him reducing local numbers. Given the sheer volume of pigs culled each year under government licences, an Aussie company is now suggesting that instead of simply wasting the large source of protein, we should in fact eat it. Natures Fare has crafted a handful of ready made meals featuring not only wild boar, but also venison and kangaroo. These are meats that are very much consumed in overseas markets, particularly in Europe, but theyre not really eaten much in Australia, particularly at home, Lerida Grant, a marketing consultant for the company, told ABC Radio on Friday. ADVERTISEMENT Once people try these meats, they taste incredible, and people also know intrinsically what the value of these meats are in terms of nutrition. But is it safe? According to Ian Hill, a chef with Creative Food Solutions, yes it is. So our natural process of sous vide cooking aids this product because it will kill all bacteria and it will make the meat super tender, he told the publication. Sous vide is a technique that involves placing food in a vacuum-sealed pouch and cooking it in low-temperature water. Natures Fare estimates that 1,000 wild pigs could provide 200,000 meals, and are now searching for supermarkets willing to stock the range after trialling them in independent NSW grocers. Why are feral pigs such a problem? Feral pigs are considered to be a serious agricultural pest due to their widespread environmental and economic impact. They cause extensive damage to native ecosystems by rooting and trampling vegetation, leading to soil erosion, waterway pollution, and the destruction of wetlands. This behaviour disrupts habitats for native plants and animals, and threatens biodiversity. Feral pigs destroy natural landscapes, prey on native wildlife, and breed extremely quickly. Source: PIRSA Feral pigs also prey on native species, including ground-nesting birds, reptiles, and amphibians, further endangering vulnerable wildlife. ADVERTISEMENT Speaking to Yahoo News, the former CEO of the Invasive Species Council of Australia, Andrew Cox, likened the species to mini-bulldozers. They upturn the ground for roots, insects and grubs, so theyre a serious problem for many plants and animals. Like feral horses, theyre ecosystem transformers theyre highly destructive, he previously said. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Tom Cruise Pays Tribute To 'Dear Friend' Val Kilmer At CinemaCon: 'I Was Honoured When He Joined Top Gun' Published By : Bang Showbiz Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 05:06 IST Tom, 62, starred alongside Kilmer in the 1986 film 'Top Gun' as Captain Pete Maverick Mitchell, with Kilmer playing his rival-turned-ally, Tom Iceman Kazansky. Tom Cruise pays tribute to his old friend Val Kilmer. Tom Cruise has paid tribute to his friend and Top Gun co-star Val Kilmer. Following the actors death at the age of 65, Tom got emotion at CinemaCon 2025 at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas as he remembered his old friend. Tom said: Id like to honour a dear friend of mine, Val Kilmer. I cant tell you how much I admire his work, how grateful and honoured I was when he joined Top Gun and came back later for Top Gun: Maverick." Recommended Stories Tom, 62, starred alongside Kilmer in the 1986 film Top Gun as Captain Pete Maverick Mitchell, with Kilmer playing his rival-turned-ally, Tom Iceman Kazansky. The actors reunited onscreen for 2022s Top Gun: Maverick, which saw Kilmer reprise his role despite years of health struggles. Vals death was announced by his daughter on Tuesday (01.04.25) from complications related to pneumonia, following a long battle with health issues. Diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, he underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and a tracheotomy, which permanently altered his voice. During his speech at CinemaCon, Tom who had been attending the event to promote Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning paused to reflect on Vals impact. He added: I think it would be really nice if we could have a moment together because he loved movies and he gave a lot to all of us. Just kind of think about all the wonderful times that we had with him. I wish you well on the next journey." In a 2022 interview, Tom spoke about how meaningful it was to work with Val again on Top Gun: Maverick. Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, he said: I just want to say that was pretty emotional. Ive known Val for decades. For him to come back and play that character hes such a powerful actor that he instantly became that character again. Youre looking at Iceman." Val, who rose to fame in the 1980s, starred in films including Batman Forever and The Doors. Despite his declining health, he made a highly publicised return in Top Gun: Maverick, with artificial intelligence assisting in recreating his voice for the role. He had previously spoken about the significance of returning, saying: Tom was Maverick, but Mavericks nemesis was Iceman. The two went together like salt and pepper." About the Author Shrishti Negi Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, ... Read More Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, ... Read More Location : Los Angeles, United States of America (USA) First Published: April 04, 2025, 05:06 IST Varun Dhawan Has All Feels After Watching The Trailer Of Akshay Kumars Kesari Chapter 2 Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 15:10 IST Ever since it was dropped on various social media platforms, the trailer has garnered nothing but praise from people and other celebrities. Kesari Chapter 2 will be released on April 18. (Photo Credits: Instagram) The trailer of Akshay Kumar, Ananya Panday and R. Madhavans period courtroom drama Kesari Chapter 2 was released on Thursday, April 3. Ever since it was dropped on various social media platforms, the trailer has garnered nothing but praise from people and other celebrities. The latest Bollywood celebrity to extend their support and heartfelt wishes to the team is Varun Dhawan. Taking to his Instagram Stories on the same day, the Badlapur actor reshared the trailer on his account. Along with it, he wrote, Solid trailer, looking forward to this film in the theatres. All Feels." Varun also tagged the films actors, producer, writer and director on his story. Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh, which is set to hit the theatres on April 18, has been backed by Karan Johars Dharma Productions. Recommended Stories Touched by Varuns gesture, KJo reshared the actors response to his Instagram Stories with a series of orange heart emojis. On April 3, the renowned director and producer shared the trailer of Kesari Chapter 2, writing, One man, his courage, his words that shook the entire empire. Uncover the most shocking lie ever told. Uncover the darkest chapter of our history. Uncover the truth behind Jallianwala Bagh tragedy." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar) The upcoming courtroom drama is adapted from the book titled The Case That Shook the Empire, which itself is based on the life history of lawyer CS Nair and the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, the film features Akshay Kumar as Sir C Sankaran Nair, the fearless lawyer who fought an unprecedented battle against the British Raj in the 1920s after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. In the film, he will be seen going up against R. Madhavans character, a lawyer who will represent the British Empire. Meanwhile, Ananya will portray a female lawyer who, despite many odds, defies stereotypes by fighting for Indians in a field dominated by males. Kesari Chapter 2 was earlier scheduled to hit the silver screens on March 14, 2025. However, the makers decided to postpone the release to April 18. Now, the Akshay Kumar starrer is set to lock horns with Sanjay Dutts upcoming action horror comedy film, The Bhootnii, co-starring Mouni Roy, Sunny Singh and Palak Tiwari. About the Author Akriti Anand Akriti Anand is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. A news writer with over a decade of experience, Akriti loves to keep a close watch on Bollywood celebrities and their social media. A post-g... Read More Akriti Anand is Chief Sub Editor of the entertainment team at News18. A news writer with over a decade of experience, Akriti loves to keep a close watch on Bollywood celebrities and their social media. A post-g... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 14:24 IST Buddhism As Indias Soft Power Tool: PM Modis Diplomatic Playbook In Southeast And East Asia Written By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 23:06 IST Buddhism has long been a spiritual bridge between India and the nations of Southeast and East Asia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recognised this. PM Modis strategic integration of Buddhism into foreign policy exemplifies cultural diplomacy at its finest. (IMAGE: X/Narendra Modi) How PM Modi Harnesses the Power of Buddhism in Indias Foreign Policy PM Modis visit to Bangkok, Thailand, for the BIMSTEC summit made for a brilliant show of cultural diplomacy. He visited the Wat Pho Temple, accompanied by Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Paying homage to the Reclining Buddha, he offered Sanghadana to senior monks and gifted a replica of the Ashokan Lion Capital. Recommended Stories Modi also proposed sending Lord Buddhas relics from Gujarat to Thailand, while Shinawatra gifted him a special edition of the Buddhist Ti-Pitaka scriptures in Pali, symbolising shared cultural heritage. 94% of Thailands 72 million people are Buddhist, which is why this outreach will strike a chord. Buddhism has long been a spiritual bridge between India and the nations of Southeast and East Asia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recognised this and strategically placed Buddhism at the heart of Indias foreign policy, leveraging it as a tool for cultural diplomacy, soft power, and geopolitical strategy. Why India is Uniquely Positioned for Buddhist Diplomacy Despite having a relatively small Buddhist population today, India holds unparalleled legitimacy in the Buddhist world. As the birthplace of Buddhism, India is where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya. The country is home to some of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites, including Sarnath, Nalanda, Rajgir, and Kushinagar. Additionally, India has played a crucial role as the custodian of Tibetan Buddhism, offering refuge to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile, further strengthening its ties to Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Indias historical engagement with Buddhism also extends to its diplomatic initiatives, dating back to Emperor Ashokas dharmavijaya (conquest through Dharma) and continuing into the present. The country maintains strong cultural and historical links with both Theravada Buddhism, practiced in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, and Mahayana Buddhism, followed in China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. These diverse connections make India a unifying force in global Buddhist discourse. PM Modis Use of Buddhism in Diplomacy PM Modis international visits and diplomatic initiatives have consistently highlighted Indias Buddhist connections. From visiting key Buddhist sites to gifting sacred relics and artefacts, PM Modi has actively reinforced Indias spiritual ties with Buddhist-majority nations. In Sri Lanka (2024), his visit to the Mahabodhi Temple at Anuradhapura underscores Indias deep-rooted spiritual connections with the Theravada Buddhist stronghold. At the India-ASEAN Summit in Laos (2024), he gifted a vintage brass Buddha statue to the Laotian President, symbolising cultural affinity. In Nepal (2022), he laid the foundation stone for the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage in Lumbini, Buddhas birthplace. Strengthening ties with Japan (2023), Modi and PM Fumio Kishida visited the Bal Bodhi Tree in Delhi. India also deepened its engagement with Mongolia by sending the Kapilavastu relics in 2022 and unveiling a Buddha statue at Gandan Tegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar in 2019. India has actively hosted international Buddhist summits and celebrations to reinforce its position as the global centre of Buddhism. The Global Buddhist Summit (2023) brought together scholars, monks, and policymakers to discuss how Buddhist philosophy can address contemporary challenges. Additionally, PM Modi attended International Vesak Day (2017) celebrations in Colombo, reaffirming Indias commitment to the Buddhist world. To attract Buddhist pilgrims and scholars, India has invested in key infrastructure projects. The Buddhist Circuit connects important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India, while the Mahaparinirvan Express train provides seamless travel between these locations. The opening of Kushinagar International Airport has further eased access for foreign visitors. Additionally, the revival of Nalanda University aims to reestablish India as a global centre for Buddhist learning. How Buddhist Diplomacy Helps India Indias Buddhist diplomacy serves multiple strategic purposes. It counters Chinas influence, especially with Tibetan Buddhism. It strengthens cultural ties with Southeast and East Asian nations under the Act East and Neighbourhood First policies. From ASEAN countries to Japan and Mongolia, this approach fosters tremendous goodwill, facilitating trade, investment, and security cooperation. Buddhist tourism has a global scale, and opens up huge opportunities in India. And finally, by positioning itself as the spiritual and intellectual home of Buddhism, India reinforces its global soft power and leadership in promoting peace and harmony. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all PM Modis strategic integration of Buddhism into foreign policy exemplifies cultural diplomacy at its finest. From gifting sacred relics to launching Buddhist summits and developing world-class pilgrimage infrastructure, India is re-establishing itself as the heart of the Buddhist world. In doing so, Modi is not just reviving historical tieshe is crafting a powerful diplomatic tool that aligns seamlessly with Indias broader geopolitical goals in the Indo-Pacific. About the Author Shubhangi Sharma Shubhangi Sharma is News Editor - Special Projects at News18. She covers foreign affairs and geopolitics, and also keeps a close watch on the national pulse of India. Shubhangi Sharma is News Editor - Special Projects at News18. She covers foreign affairs and geopolitics, and also keeps a close watch on the national pulse of India. First Published: April 04, 2025, 22:31 IST Global Watch | Bangladeshs Terror Network: How Jamaat Became The Fountainhead Of Islamism Written By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 14:49 IST Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh maintains ties with Islamist movements across the globe, including in Pakistan, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia Supporters of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami occupy street of Matijheel area to hold a rally in Dhaka, Bangladesh, October 28, 2023. (REUTERS) After the ouster of Sheikh Hasinas Awami League government, Bangladesh, under the leadership of its Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, has become a hub of radical Islamists and terrorist groups that pose a danger not only to the regional peace and security but also pose a grave threat to global peace and security. This is Part 1 of the multi-part series that profiles some of the key terrorist and Islamist outfits active in Bangladesh, resulting in pogrom of Hindus and other minorities. These radical Islamist groups have systematically targeted political opponents. All of them have close ties with Pakistan and the global terror network. BRIEF HISTORY Recommended Stories Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh (JIB) is a political and religious organization founded in 1941 by Maulana Abul Ala Maududi in British India. Initially established as a branch of the Jamaat-e-Islami (Pakistan) in the pre-independence era, it aimed to promote Islamic values and influence politics through the lens of Islamic law, known as Sharia. In 1947, following the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan, Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan (JIP) was established, and Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh emerged as a prominent player in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). During the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, the group took a strong stance against the independence movement, aligning itself with Pakistan and opposing the breakaway of East Pakistan. As a result, many of its leaders were accused of collaborating with the Pakistani military in suppressing the independence movement, leading to their involvement in atrocities against Bengali nationalists. After the war and Bangladeshs independence, Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh was banned, but it was later re-legalized in 1979. Since then, the party has remained a significant political force, albeit controversial due to its ideology and its historical association with Pakistan during the war for independence. PRESENT STATE Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh remains a contentious political entity, known for its influence over the Islamist political and social landscape in Bangladesh. It has faced multiple challenges from both the government and civil society for its controversial activities during the 1971 war and its ideologies that are perceived as anti-secular and anti-democratic by many. Despite these challenges, the party still holds influence within the countrys political dynamics, although it was banned from contesting elections under its own name since 2013. Many of its leaders faced legal challenges and accusations of war crimes related to the 1971 Liberation War. But the Yunus regime lifted this ban in August 2024, within days of taking over the reins of power. The partys leadership and members have consistently engaged in political activism, both domestically and internationally, advocating for the establishment of an Islamic state in Bangladesh. Its role in the countrys political system had been significantly reduced, especially after the controversial war crimes trials of 2010-2013, which led to the conviction of several of its prominent leaders. However, it has bounced back under the Yunus regime and is carrying forward its agenda with full force to turn Bangladesh into a Sharia-ruled state. PROMINENT LEADERS Shafiqur Rahman: A medical doctor by profession, Rahman is the Jamaat Ameer. He has been involved in the organisations activities for decades and remains one of the prominent figures Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir: Although primarily the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Mirza Fakhrul has had close ties with Jamaat-e-Islami, particularly in forming alliances against the ruling Awami League. He has been involved in various political movements alongside Jamaat leaders. Abdul Quader Mollah (Posthumous Influence): Although Abdul Quader Mollah, who was one of the most prominent leaders and activists, was executed in 2013 for war crimes, his influence still looms over the partys ideological direction. His execution is termed as martyrdom by Jamaat, and this has been used to rally support, especially from more radical elements within Jamaat. Professor Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain: A former minister in previous government coalitions with the BNP, Hossain remains influential within the party, though he has been active mainly in the political domain rather than day-to-day party operations. Abdul Hamid: Another notable leader within Jamaat who has maintained a degree of influence, though his role is mainly within the broader Islamist movement in Bangladesh rather than formal political structures. Ruhul Amin: Ruhul Amin is a senior leader and spokesman for Jamaat-e-Islami, often representing the party during press conferences and in interactions with the media. BANGLADESH JAMAAT-E-ISLAMIS LEADERSHIP IN EXILE A number of senior Jamaat leaders, including those convicted of war crimes, either resided in exile or operated from outside Bangladesh till August 2024. Many of them are arriving back in Bangladesh under the Yunus regime. The leaders who still remain out of Bangladesh maintain communication with the Jamaats domestic leadership and continue to direct the partys external advocacy. IDEOLOGY AND PHILOSOPHY Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh subscribes to the ideology of Islamism, advocating for the establishment of an Islamic state governed by Sharia law. The party seeks to combine political activism with religious devotion, promoting Islamic principles as the foundation for both personal and societal governance. Islamic Governance: Jamaat-e-Islami advocates for the establishment of an Islamic state where laws are based on the Quran and Sunnah (the teachings of Prophet Muhammad). Opposition to Secularism: The party is firmly opposed to secularism and the separation of religion from politics, which is the basis of Bangladeshs constitution. It promotes the idea of integrating Islamic values into all aspects of governance and society. Social Justice and Welfare: Jamaat-e-Islami also emphasises that all the welfare programs and education institutions should be based on Islamic principles. Pan-Islamism: The party holds a vision of Muslim unity across the globe, particularly in South Asia, and has historically aligned itself with other Islamist organizations in the region, such as Pakistans Jamaat-e-Islami. SCHOOL OF THOUGHT Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh follows the Deobandi school of thought within Sunni Islam, emphasising traditionalist and orthodox interpretations of Islamic texts. The partys philosophical roots are heavily influenced by the works of Maulana Abul Ala Maududi, who advocated for a puritanical form of Islam integrated into the state. Jamaat wants to apply Maududis Islamic principles to a modern state. CHRONOLOGICAL DETAILS OF ANTI-STATE OR ANTI-INDIA ACTIVITY During Bangladeshs Liberation War (1971), Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh was most infamously known for its active opposition to the independence of Bangladesh and its collaboration with the Pakistani military. Party leaders supported the military crackdown against Bengali nationalists, leading to mass atrocities. Its involvement in the violence and the subsequent trials in the post-independence period has been a significant part of the partys legacy. Anti-India Stance: Historically, Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh has maintained an anti-India stance, largely due to the geopolitical dynamics between Bangladesh and India. The partys leadership has expressed opposition to Indian influence in South Asia, including issues concerning water sharing, border disputes, and political alignments. During the 2000s, Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh was involved in widespread protests and strikes against perceived anti-Islamic policies and the governments secular agenda. The party often staged violent demonstrations against Indian policies, particularly regarding Kashmir. Post-2010: Jamaat-e-Islami has been involved in several high-profile protests and violent clashes with the government, particularly during the war crimes trials of 2010-2013, where it sought to protect its leaders from prosecution. PRESENT HOLD IN BANGLADESH Despite facing legal challenges and the loss of political power in recent years, Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh continued to exert influence within certain sectors of Bangladeshi society even during Sheikh Hasinas regime. Its grassroots support base remained strong, particularly in rural areas and among conservative Muslim communities. Jamaat-e-Islami was a key player in the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)-led alliances in the 1990s and 2000s. However, since 2013, following the war crimes convictions, the party had been unable to contest elections directly. In 2013, the government of Bangladesh amended the constitution to prevent Jamaat-e-Islami from participating in elections. With the removal of the ban after the Yunus-led government came into power, its influence continues through affiliated groups and social organisations. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The party at present holds significant support among certain sections of society, particularly in the context of opposition to the ruling Awami League party, which has a secularist agenda. Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh maintains ties with Islamist movements across the globe, including in Pakistan, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. The writer is an author and a columnist. His X handle is @ArunAnandLive. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: April 04, 2025, 14:49 IST Opinion | Modis Big Plan For BIMSTEC: Connecting India With Southeast Asia Written By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 07:16 IST From a transformed Northeast to the upcoming Great Nicobar port, India is using BIMSTEC to open new trade routes to Southeast Asia Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during an official dinner at the BIMSTEC Summit, in Bangkok, Thailand. (@ingshin via PTI Photo) Indias Northeast is at the cusp of a connectivity revolution. Since 2014, the development of crucial infrastructure in the Northeast has been taken up on a mission mode. Once known for scant connectivity and internal disturbances, Indias Northeast today boasts some of the countrys best roads and bridges. Rail infrastructure has grown by leaps and bounds, and all states in the Northeast are now on Indias railway map. Therefore, the time is ripe to take the next big step, and that is exactly why Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Thailand for the BIMSTEC Summit assumes such importance. Recommended Stories At the top of the BIMSTECs agenda is the Maritime Transport Agreement, which will provide a fillip to intra-regional trade between India and Southeast Asia. Not only is the MTA set to enhance trade between India and ASEAN, but it will also help New Delhi grow its influence across the wider Pacific Ocean. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar highlighted this during his remarks at the BIMSTEC ministerial meeting. He emphasised the fact that India has the longest coastline in the Bay of Bengal, spanning almost 6500 kilometres. India shares borders not only with five BIMSTEC members, but also connects most of them and provides much of the interface between the Indian Sub-continent and ASEAN. For context, the BIMSTEC countries have a combined population of 1.73 billion people and a GDP of $5.2 trillion. Connectivity integration within this bloc can change the face of trade in the Indo-Pacific. After all, the sky is the limit for India. Amid growing geopolitical uncertainty globally, New Delhi is keen to first connect Thailand with the Northeast and Indias coastal regions. Once that is achieved, the path will be cleared for India to make further inroads into Southeast Asia especially in countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Brunei and the Philippines. The Maritime Transport Agreement will offer discounted port fees for different types of cargo from BIMSTEC nations, permit transshipment through third-country ports, and streamline logistics to boost regional trade. This initiative is anticipated to greatly strengthen Indias trade ties with neighbouring countries by enhancing maritime connectivity in the Bay of Bengal. In recent days, there have been unsound comments made by certain unelected heads of state, who have sought to discount the importance of Indias Northeast while trumpeting their own supposed influence in the region. To think of Indias Northeast as landlocked" and a region which depends on other countries to sustain itself is a rookie assessment at best. Not only does India boast a vast coastline, stretching from the Chennai Port in the South to the Kolkata Port in the East, but it is also increasingly turning its focus to strengthen its maritime and shipbuilding ecosystem. As part of this broad strategy, India has been upgrading its existing port infrastructure while also eyeing game-changing projects which would help New Delhi bypass certain countries to reach ASEAN nations, particularly Thailand and Vietnam. One such project on the anvil is the Rs 41,000 crore international transhipment port project at Great Nicobar Island in the Bay of Bengal. The proposed port in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands will have the ultimate capacity to handle 16 million containers per year. Once completed, this hub will help converge West- and East-bound shipments, making India a critical player in global supply chains. With Bangladesh under Muhammad Yunus deciding to get increasingly cosy with China and Pakistan, India can no longer rely on Dhaka to play a constructive role in integrating the Indian subcontinent with Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific. Similarly, Myanmars civil war has soured plans for the country to provide a land bridge between India and Thailand. Notwithstanding the chaos in Myanmar, New Delhi is confident that the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway will become fully operational in the near future. Most of this project is complete, with only a limited stretch of road between Myanmars Kalewa and Mandalay yet to be constructed. As Indias Operation Brahma helps the country earn some much-needed goodwill in war-torn Myanmar, it is expected that the warring factions will settle around the idea of allowing the IMT Highway and Kaladan Multi Modal Transport Project to achieve completion. The IMT highway will be supported by maritime connectivity efforts, including strengthening direct port-to-port links, with MoUs already signed between Ranong Port in Thailand and Indian ports in Visakhapatnam, Chennai and Kolkata. This is to say that even if Bangladesh decides to play spoilsport, Indias BIMSTEC connectivity goals are expected to stay on track. Moreover, with Donald Trump imposing reciprocal tariffs, Southeast Asian countries will be seeking alternative markets. India, whose consumer market is set to become the worlds third-largest by 2026, provides Southeast Asian nations the perfect opportunity to diversify their trade partnerships, reduce dependence on Western markets, and tap into a rapidly expanding consumer base. Some estimates even suggest that Indias consumer market is on track to expand 46 per cent by 2030, making it the second-largest globally. A key achievement in the 10 years of the Act East Policy has been the upgradation of Indias ties with ASEAN to a strategic partnership." Since 2015, bilateral trade has nearly doubled, with significant growth in Indias exports and an increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) from ASEAN nations. Additionally, Indias diplomatic presence and engagement in the region have seen a marked improvement. With many global companies diversifying supply chains away from China, Indias strategic investments in BIMSTEC connectivity can position it as a key player in regional and global supply chains. Improved trade routes will help Indian businesses integrate more seamlessly with Southeast Asian production networks, boosting exports and creating more job opportunities at home. The BIMSTEC region is home to a growing middle class, and improved connectivity will allow Indian businesses to tap into high-demand sectors such as consumer goods, electronics, and digital services. Moreover, lower transportation costs and faster turnaround times will enhance the competitiveness of Indian goods in BIMSTEC nations, allowing Indian MSMEs to expand their export footprint. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Prime Minister Modis push for deeper BIMSTEC ties reflects Indias long-term visionone that sees connectivity as the backbone of economic growth, regional stability, and strategic influence. By enhancing trade routes, streamlining logistics, and investing in port and highway projects, India is positioning itself as the bridge between South Asia and ASEAN. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. About the Author Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra is a producer and video journalist at Network18. He is enthusiastic about and writes on both national affairs as well as geopolitics. Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra is a producer and video journalist at Network18. He is enthusiastic about and writes on both national affairs as well as geopolitics. First Published: April 04, 2025, 07:00 IST Amid US Tariffs, Shashi Tharoor Has One Question For Indian Government | Exclusive Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 15:38 IST Does the Indian government have a stand on agricultural tariffs, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor asked while speaking to CNN-News18 on Friday Shashi Tharoor said the PM or a senior minister should clarify the stand of the government on these demands. (PTI File) Does the Indian government have a stand on agricultural tariffs," Congress leader Shashi Tharoor asked while speaking to CNN-News18 on Friday, saying there has been very little coming out of the government" so far on the issue of tariffs imposed by the Donald Trump government in the United States (US). The Congress carried out a protest in Parliament on Friday, demanding a statement from the Prime Minister on the issue of US Tariffs. Recommended Stories The Congress leadership wants clarification from the government about what is going on. We are reading in the newspapers about Americans demanding that India should lower its tariffs and lower subsidies in agricultural products," Tharoor told CNN-News18. Tharoor said this raises some real questions because Indias farmers are already in bad shape. We have seen the farmer protests," he said. He said the Prime Minister or a senior minister should clarify the stand of the government on these demands. So far, there is only a statement from the Ministry of Commerce issued on Thursday. There has been very little coming out of the government so far," Tharoor told CNN-News18. We can partially understand that because the negotiations are supposed to be ongoing. But some basic principles that the nation can be assured by should have come." The former Union Minister said one of the calculations that has to be done is that the tariffs which have been put on India are lower than those countries who are competing with us for the same export market. So countries like China, Vietnam have higher tariffs. Even Bangladesh which would be a major exporter of textiles to America they have now get new tariffs. So there are some real issues there which may represent some opportunities for Indian manufacturers," Tharoor told CNN-News18. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He, however, said there will be other areas where India will be at a disadvantage, where our principal competition will only be with countries which are only charged 10% tariff". So all of these calculations have to be made. It will be helpful if the government takes the public into confidence, ideally through the forum of Parliament," Tharoor told CNN-News18. About the Author Aman Sharma Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 15:03 IST Two More Leaders Quit Nitish Kumar's JDU Over Support To Waqf Bill, Party Reacts Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 10:18 IST Nitish Kumar's JDU was among the NDA allies who backed the BJP over the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Parliament. So far, four JDU leaders have resigned from the party over the party's move. Bihar CM Nitish Kumar (File Photo: ANI) A spate of resignations has struck the JDU, a key BJP ally, since the passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Parliament with two new party leaders relinquishing their membership. JDU leaders Tabrez Siddiqui Alig and Dilshan Rayeen are the latest to leave party chief Nitish Kumar, who backed the BJP in the Parliament on the Waqf Bill. Recommended Stories Earlier, senior leaders Mohammed Qasim Ansari and Mohammed Nawaz Malik were the first to resign from the party and its posts over the partys stance on the legislation, which was termed anti-constitutional and anti-Muslim" by the Opposition. However, the JDU has refuted the reports of resignations from the party and said that the Waqf Bill is a ray of hope" for poor Muslims. What Did JDU Leader Say In his Resignation Letter? Announcing his resignation on X, Siddiqui posted a letter to the party chief and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Resignation from the position of State General Secretary and primary membership of the Janata Dal (United) party over the Waqf Amendment Bill." Stating that the JDU has always stood for secularism and protection of minority rights", the support to the Waqf Bill has deeply shaken that belief". The statements made in the Lok Sabha by Lalan Singh in support of this bill are extremely disappointing and disheartening. This bill strikes at the constitutional rights of Indian Muslims and appears to be an attempt to push the entire Muslim community to the margins," he said. He said that he never imagined that the JDU would support this Bill. He further claimed that the latest move will have a significant impact on the upcoming Bihar Assembly Elections this year. Its impact will be clearly visible in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections in 2025, and soon, widespread resentment within JD(U) will trigger an exodus," he said. Congress Reacts To Resignations Congress leader Udit Raj attacked Nitish Kumar over his support for the Waqf Bill and called upon Muslim leaders in JDU to resign from the party. Nitish ji has betrayed Muslims and his Muslim leaders. All Muslim leaders of JDU should resign from the party. If any Muslim leader is with JDU, then he is betraying his community," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Independent Lok Sabha MP Pappu Yadav claimed that the BJP would not need Nitish Kumar the day voting takes place in Bihar. Nitish Kumar jis mental state is not very good in the present time. In his party, 90% of leaders are against SC/ST but aligned to BJPThe day voting takes place in Bihar, on that day after 5 pm, the BJP will not need Nitish Kumar..JD(U) is not in the hands of Nitish ji now," he said. About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 09:35 IST Not Seeking To Continue': K Annamalai Bows Out Of Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Race Ahead Of 2026 Polls Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 18:46 IST Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai's remarks came amid the speculation over a possible alliance of the old allies, BJP and the AIADMK K Annamalai (File) Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai has said that he is not in the race to be the next state chief of the party. He said that there is no scope for a contest or competition in the party and the next president would be elected unanimously. I am not in the race for the post of the new state presidentI am not ready for any quarrel and I am not in the race." news agency ANI quoted Annamalai as saying when asked whether he is part of the race for the post of Tamil Nadu BJP president. Recommended Stories Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu: State BJP chief K Annamalai says, There is no contest in Tamil Nadu BJP, we will select a leader unanimously. But I am not in the race. I am not in the BJP state leadership race." pic.twitter.com/7OjdbOoTWR ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2025 On the reported view that the AIADMK leadership was for easing him out of office of state unit president to forge an alliance with the BJP, Annamalai said he was not inclined to make any comment. As far as I am concerned, the BJP should do well for all times to come, we will talk at the time of election of new president," he said and added that it could happen soon. He said that his work as a party worker would continue and asserted he came to politics opposing corruption and there will be no compromise in that respect. I want the party to have a bright future. Many have given their lives for the growth of this party. I always wish the best for this party," he said. He reiterated that alliance decisions rest with BJPs national leadership. With respect to the alliance, you have to understand that for a national party like the BJP, a disciplined party, it is our national leadership that will decide. So, we have committees, we have parliamentary boards which look into a lot of angles before they make the decision." His remarks came amid the speculation over a possible alliance of the old allies, BJP and the AIADMK, in a bid to outset MK Stalins ruling DMK in the next years assembly elections. Annamalais criticism of AIADMK leaders was seen as a key reason for the party snapping ties with the BJP in 2023. The speculation over revival of the BJP-AIADMK alliance came after AIADMK leader and former Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami met Union Home Minister Amit Shah earlier this week. BJP Puts Ball In Annamalais Court Meanwhile, it has been reported that the BJP central leadership prefers to continue with Annamalai as the state unit chief if he is willing to work in an alliance with the AIADMK for the 2026 Assembly elections. Although the BJP failed to win a single seat in Tamil Nadu in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the party saw a good rise in vote share under Annamalais leadership. According to The New Indian Express report, the BJP leadership has weighed in for the alliance with AIADMK for the upcoming elections, however, it does not want the alliance to materialise at the cost of Annamalais position. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The ball is in Annamalais court," a senior leader told the news outlet, adding that during his recent visit to Delhi, it was made clear to him that the AIADMK-BJP alliance is of utmost importance for the Assembly polls. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 18:26 IST Sounding The Poll Bugle: Starting April, Amit Shah To Spend 2 Days Each In Bihar, Bengal & TN Every Month Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 11:08 IST Sources in the know suggest, starting this April, Shah will visit all these three states every month to formulate strategy and take stock of the situation. Shah is slated to spend two days each in these three poll-bound states every month, adds a source. Union Home Minister Amit Shah (PTI Image) After working late night in Parliament to pass Waqf Amendment Bill and a long second part of the Budget Session, one would expect any politician to take it easy for a week or two. But that is not the case for Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who will immediately start BJPs poll preparations for the upcoming Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal elections. Sources in the know suggest, starting this April, Shah will visit all these three states every month to formulate strategy and take stock of the situation. Shah is slated to spend two days each in these three poll-bound states every month, adds a source. Recommended Stories While Bihar election is scheduled end of this year, both West Bengal and Tamil Nadu elections are scheduled for 2026. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Sources privy to the development told News18 that Shah is slated to visit Bihar on April 30 and May 1. He recently visited Bihar where he held two separate meetings in Patna including one with the core group and later addressed a public rally in Gopalganj. News18 earlier reported how it was Shah who asked the Bihar BJP to focus on three issues for election reviving talks about Jungle Raj", revisiting scams of RJD chief Lalu Prasad and bringing them to public discourse and focus on BJPs commitment to build a grand temple for Ma Sita in Bihar. Shah is also slated to visit Bengal and Tamil Nadu this month. In Tamil Nadu, he will be in Chennai for two days, say sources. Shah is slated to hold meetings with Tamil Nadu BJP and allies as well. About the Author Anindya Banerjee Anindya Banerjee, Associate Editor brings over fifteen years of journalistic courage to the forefront. With a keen focus on politics and policy, Anindya has garnered a wealth of experience, with deep throat in ... Read More Anindya Banerjee, Associate Editor brings over fifteen years of journalistic courage to the forefront. With a keen focus on politics and policy, Anindya has garnered a wealth of experience, with deep throat in ... Read More First Published: April 04, 2025, 11:08 IST AC Buying Guide 2025: Should You Buy Split Or Window AC, Inverter Or Normal? Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 08:35 IST Summer 2025 in Delhi means it is time to get your ACs serviced in top shape or get ready to spend on a new AC if your house really needs it. Delhi Summer 2025 is around the corner and it is time to help you buy the right AC for your house. Delhi Summer 2025 is knocking on the doors which means it is time to service those Air Conditioner (ACs) or time to buy a new one to handle the heat. As most of us know, buying an AC online from Amazon, Flipkart and other online shopping websites requires thorough research. You need to think about factors like the room size for the right variant, how the AC will be installed and which kind of AC is suitable for your space. There used to be a time when ACs were considered a luxury but now ACs are affordable as well as brimming with features that make them good value for the money. So, if you are planning to buy a new AC, this buying guide will help you decide better. Recommended Stories AC Buying Guide 2025: What You Should Keep In Mind Split or Window AC Window ACs get fixed on a window or any platform which is tough enough to hold any model. A window AC model comes equipped with all the components, which makes it big yet cheaper. It is easy to install a window AC but the affordability comes at the cost of a noisy machine, which you may or may not like. With a split AC, the split part of the machine includes a compressor and the heat dispensing coils that are separated into an internal and external unit, respectively which you might have seen outside houses. In addition to the ease of installing, Window ACs cost less money for servicing and even the parts. While split AC can be a bit difficult to set up. Split ACs are quiet, and you dont need a specific place to fix them. But they are expensive, so buy only if the budget permits. Once you decide the type of the AC, it will be easy to finalise the size to buy for the room and most people opt for the 1.5-tonne version that caters to most room sizes. Running AC, Higher Power Bill Running ACs have become unavoidable with the heat on the rise, but even then you can make the best of the cooling machines and get the best mileage out of them. So when you are buying an AC (split or Windows), always check for the Star rating which goes from 3 to 5 and decide on the model based on your budget. However, you must know that a 3-star rated AC will consume more power than a 5-star AC that initially costs you more. If your consumption does not include running the AC all-day, lower rating AC being run at a nominal temperature should suffice. To Inverter Or Not You might have seen a lot of ACs these days carrying the tag of the inverter. Now, if you buy an inverter, the AC model allows users to tweak the cooling capacity as required and helps in saving electricity bills. For example, if you buy a 1.5 Ton inverter AC, then this model will be able to function between 0.5 ton and 1.5 ton cooling capacity depending on the temperature outside. However, if you buy a 1.5 ton non-inverter model, the AC will run in its true nature which can be heavy on the pocket. Also, inverter ACs have power-saving features but they are expensive in all ways. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Buying AC Online? Follow These Steps First Make sure to check the features, price and other offers listed on the company website and the e-commerce platform. Check about delivery and installation terms as most online brands have a separate charge for these tasks. Dont forget to check the overall warranty on the AC, and especially the support for crucial components like the compressor, PCB unit and more. About the Author S Aadeetya S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More News18 Tech delivers the latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements, and more. Stay informed with breaking tech news , expert insights, and trends from India and around the world . Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 08:35 IST The council has announced it is ramping up efforts to combat the issue, with a comprehensive new strategy. New signs will be placed at key entry points to Exmouth, explicitly stating the town is a "NO FREE CAMPING" zone. Source: Shire of Exmouth Council Councils across Australia are increasingly cracking down on illegal camping at major tourist areas, with levels of overcrowding, damage to the environment, and littering soaring at spots frequently visited by travellers. Exmouth Shire in Western Australia is one of the most active in tackling the issue. For years, it has struggled with the rising number of campers setting up in non-designated areas, often causing environmental issues while disrupting local communities. This week, the Shire announced it is "intensifying" its efforts to combat the issue with a comprehensive new strategy. It's set to include enhanced patrols across multiple agencies, tighter parking regulations and more educational resources. A four-hour maximum parking time has been implemented and will be enforced at known hotspots and reserves, including Exmouth Town Beach and the Exmouth ovals, to prevent overnight camping, council said. Yahoo News attempted to question the Shire on how exactly the system will be mandated, but a spokesperson was unable to provide clarity. ADVERTISEMENT She said additional information would be available on Monday. For years, the Shire has struggled with the rising number of campers setting up in non-designated areas. Source: WA Government What's changing in Exmouth to combat illegal camping? Various agencies such as the Department of Defence, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), the Australian Federal Police (AFP), and WA Police (WAPOL) will assist in patrols. A detailed flyer, available in multiple languages, has also been distributed to accommodation providers, visitor centres, and roadhouses to inform travellers about camping rules. A digital version will be shared widely on social media to reach a larger audience, before they choose to visit Exmouth without pre-arranged accommodation, the Shire said. Last year, a council spokesperson told Yahoo that a new campsite in the region near the town centre on Reserve 29066 had deterred some people from squatting in areas they shouldn't, but not all. A four-hour maximum parking time has been implemented at known hotspots and reserves, including Exmouth Town Beach. Source: The West Australian "While the site is great, the Shire still experiences illegal camping, which disgruntles residents and other travellers alike," the spokeswoman said. "Due to our location and unique environment, the Shire cannot offer free or wild camp facilities without a camp host. ADVERTISEMENT "In addition to travellers willing to plan their stay and book accommodation in advance, we experience those who do not plan ahead and travel the long way to Exmouth before securing accommodation and choosing to illegally camp instead." Moving forward, new signage will be placed at key entry points to Exmouth, explicitly stating the town is a "NO FREE camping" zone, with camping only allowed in designated caravan parks and campgrounds. Additional "No Camping" signs have been installed across reserves and areas managed by the DBCA, including popular beaches in the Exmouth Gulf Area and Westside (Jurabi Coastal Park). Council promotes managed campgrounds, such as the Exmouth Horseman's Club, which provide budget-friendly and regulated spaces for travellers, with Shire President Matt Nikkula saying the protection of "our natural environment is paramount". ADVERTISEMENT "We understand the concerns surrounding illegal camping and are committed to taking decisive action," he said. "We've heard our community loud and clear, and these initiatives directly address the issues they've raised. We have allocated necessary funds and are working diligently with our partners to ensure the effectiveness of these measures," he said. Council urges visitors to respect 'no camping' rules "We understand the appeal of our natural landscapes, but illegal camping damages these precious areas and impacts the enjoyment of all. We urge all visitors to respect the regulations and choose authorised camping sites so we can preserve the beauty of Exmouth for generations to come." Both residents and visitors are urged to report any illegal camping activities and comply with all regulations. The crackdown is not unique to Exmouth, as many coastal councils in Australia are increasingly prioritising the protection of their natural landscapes and public spaces from the negative impacts of illegal camping. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Can You Make 'Fake' Aadhaar, PAN Card Images On ChatGPT? Here's What We Know Amid Social Media Buzz Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 19:15 IST ChatGPT Aadhar Card Misuse: Several social media users shared screenshots showing ChatGPT generating fake Aadhaar and PAN cards, raising security concerns and calls for AI regulation. ChatGPT is reportedly generating fake Aadhaar and PAN cards, raising security concerns. ChatGPT Aadhar Card Misuse: OpenAIs artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT has dominated headlines over the past few weeks, thanks to its new Studio Ghibli image generator feature. Millions of users are creating Ghibli-style images and sharing them across social media. However, ChatGPTs image generation capabilities are also under scrutiny after users on social media shared images that they claimed to show the AI chatbot generating fake Indian identity documents such as Aadhaar and PAN cards. Netizens highlighted serious security concerns and called for AI to be regulated. Recommended Stories Just read that ChatGPT can create fake Aadhaar and PAN cards if given the right prompt. If this is true, its a huge problem. Imagine how easy it would be for scammers to misuse thisfake identities, bank fraud, financial crimes, the list goes on," said a user on LinkedIn. Can ChatGPT Create Fake Aadhaar, PAN Cards? To check if ChatGPT was really creating these fake Aadhaar and PAN cards, News18s sister publication Moneycontrol.com asked it on the Mac app to create an Aadhaar image. However, ChatGPT refused and said, I cant help with creating or modifying official documents like Aadhaar cards. If you need one, its best to visit the official UIDAI website or a certified Aadhaar enrollment center near you. Let me know if you need help finding one or understanding the process!" However, ChatGPTs response on the iPhone app was slightly different. It cited legal and ethical guidelines for not replicating official identification documents, but offered to create a mock-up" or template-style graphic for a presentation or design" with fictional details. Intrigued by this response, we at News18 also decided to see if ChatGPT was really creating such replica IDs. When we asked ChatGPT to create an Aadhaar card, it said, I cant create a mockup of a PAN (Permanent Account Number) card, as its an official government document used for identity and tax purposes in India. If you need a PAN card for official use, you can apply for one through the NSDL or UTIITSL websites." When we asked it to create a mock-up image, ChatGPT replied by saying, I cant generate a mock Aadhaar card, as its an official government-issued identity document in India. However, if youre looking for a general ID card template inspired by Aadhaars design (without real details), I can create a custom sample for personal or design purposes." ChatGPT then created a custom sample ID of an Aadhaar card, without any details. An important point to mention here is that ChatGPT will refuse to modify the sample photo with real and historical names, so we asked it to create another sample with a generic name and a randomly generated face. The result is below: Note: It is strongly recommended that you do not share your personal information with anyone, even ChatGPT. However, several social media users shared screenshots on social media showing users asking ChatGPT to create replicas of Aadhar and PAN cards with fabricated names, addresses and identification numbers. Ok, so ChatGPT can create Aadhaar images. Thats not the interesting thing. The interesting thing is where did it get the Aadhar photos data for training?" one user said. Ok, so ChatGPT can create Aadhaar images. Thats not the interesting thing. The interesting thing is where did it get the Aadhar photos data for training? pic.twitter.com/kb6lvuD04E nutanc (@nutanc) April 3, 2025 ChatGPT is generating fake Aadhaar and PAN cards instantly, which is a serious security risk.This is why AI should be regulated to a certain extent.@sama @OpenAI pic.twitter.com/4bsKWEkJGr Yaswanth Sai Palaghat (@yaswanthtweet) April 4, 2025 People are worried ChatGPT collected their facial data. Buddy ChatGPT might already have your AADHAR CARD, how do you think it generated this?" another user commented. However, several netizens denied that ChatGPT could create fake Aadhaar and PAN cards. How To Differentiate Between Real And Fake IDs? If ChatGPT can indeed replicate Aadhaar and PAN cards, it would amount to serious security risks and would open the way for fraudsters to exploit this technology to create false IDs. It is strongly recommended that you do not share your personal information with anyone, even ChatGPT. In order to distinguish between a real and an AI-generated ID, you need to check the passport-size image on the card, as AI images often vary even if they are sourced from a genuine image. You also need to compare the Hindi/English font on both cards and check the syntax Aadhaar structure, placement of colons, commas etc. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all You should also carefully check the logos of Aadhaar and the Government of India. You should also see if a QR code is there on the ID, and scan to check if it is authentic. If you want to verify your Aadhaar card online, you can visit the Aadhaar websites https://uidai.gov.in/ or https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/verifyAadhaar, where you need to enter your 12-digit identification number and captcha code. If your Aadhaar number is fake, you will not be able to proceed. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More News18 Tech delivers the latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements, and more. Stay informed with breaking tech news , expert insights, and trends from India and around the world . Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: April 04, 2025, 19:06 IST Internet Flooded With Penguin Memes As Trump Slaps Tariffs On Uninhabited Antarctic Islands Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 14:16 IST Some memes depicted penguins protesting with banners reading 'No Tariffs,' while many featured Trump alongside the penguins. Collage of memes shared on X Donald Trump on Thursday announced the tariff US will impose on the countries. While the move adds to economic burden of most of the countries, what caught the internets attention was America announcing a 10 per cent tariff on goods from uninhabited volcanic islands near Antarctica, which are home only to glaciers, penguins, and seals, in addition to mainland Australia. The news created a sensation online, especially X, with netizens flooding the social media platform with hilarious memes featuring Trump and penguins. While some showed penguins protesting by holding banners with No Tarifs signs, many featured Trump standing alongside the penguins. Recommended Stories One user shared a video of penguins walking with a backpack. The caption read, Penguins leaving Heard Island and McDonald Island. is THIS what you voted for?" penguins leaving Heard Island and McDonald Island. is THIS what you voted for? pic.twitter.com/yqCMAx9zGa (@Andr3jH) April 3, 2025 Another meme shows an angry animated penguin holding a gun, with the image reading Peace Was Never An Option". Wow my feed is full of penguins pic.twitter.com/L33ldLTGNX Darth Dawg Jnr (@bathdawgNAFO) April 3, 2025 Another meme featured many penguins holding placards and opposing tariffs with a different spelling of tariff on each card. I stand with the penguins of Heard Island and McDonald Islands. pic.twitter.com/Dfyd5TBvr3 (@velonoir) April 3, 2025 The penguins are pissed about their 10% tariff pic.twitter.com/A4zU5CkVzX Septimus Brown (@SeptimusBrown) April 3, 2025 Comedy of the centuryTrade war with #penguins ?#Trump hits 10% tariff on Heard and McDonald Islands near Antarctica with 0% human population.So Penguins Need To Pay With Fish and Shrimp They Got? https://t.co/AYFkaahuAq pic.twitter.com/kJhUBRz6JO ZIN (@Ram_Zin_) April 3, 2025 Get ready for the trade war, PENGUINS!U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. was imposing reciprocal tariffs" on a collection of Antarctic islands that are not inhabited by humans. Produced by @XHNews pic.twitter.com/vWphcIJaHu Pacific Dialogue (@Pacific_Dialog) April 3, 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Donald Trump slapped a 10% tariff on the uninhabited Heard and McDonald Islands near AntarcticaSeriously? No one even lives there. What a joke! pic.twitter.com/pKu7CqJLbJ Ben Lincoln (@realBenLincoln) April 2, 2025 Meanwhile, in another addition, US President Donald Trump also imposed a 29 per cent tariff on a small South Pacific outpost of Norfolk Island, an island with a population of over 2,000 people. Notably, it hardly export anything to America. News18's viral page features trending stories, videos , and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: April 04, 2025, 14:16 IST No Visa, No Problem: Man Attempts To Board Flight With Magnet Trick Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 15:50 IST The video shows a man in Pakistan halting a plane in midair to board it and go to Dubai for work. Social media users have criticised and trolled the video brutally. (Photo Credits: Instagram) Theres almost no limit to how bizarre Instagram edits can get. The latest addition to a whole host of incredibly unique and hilarious videos comes from Pakistan where a man is seen attempting to board a plane not from an airport but what appears to be his farmland. In the clip, the man hurls a magnet at the plane and stops it in midair to board it and travel to Dubai for work. The captain, concerned, opened the door to investigate why they were stuck only to be greeted by the man holding the plane by a long rope attached to the magnet. Recommended Stories When he glances around, he notices a man clinging to the rope. When he asks why he did it, the man responds that he wants to go to Dubai and would like to accompany him. The pilot then instructed him to travel to the airport and board the flight. The man says that he does not have a visa or passport, which is why he is doing this. And the video abruptly ends! The clip shared on Instagram comes with a caption saying Want more Pakistani content??" and a note on the video reads Mai Akela Kyu Dekhu" (why would I want to see this alone). View this post on Instagram A post shared by sam_andreas03 (@sam_andreas03) Posted on February 6, the video has garnered over 14,000 views so far. More than the video-grabbing headlines, the remarks in the comment section are making waves. A user wrote, Berozgaari Ultra Pro Max (Rose Gold Edition)." Another commented, Best VFX everaisa lag raha hai original." Ye paksitani kasam sae bahut velle hai kya?," an individual on Instagram said. Eske jhaj me clutch brake accelerator v h," another jokingly said. Some users mocked the video badly, while others joked about the captains uniform and acting. Ye sab Facebook mei upload kiya karo . Mei wo app use nhi karti," a user remarked. Himmat deko meri, pura deka," another user quipped. An individual stated, Aluminium kab se chipakne lg gya magnet se." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all There was one user who even asked for a sequel to it, saying, We need a sequel." Let us know what you think of this video. About the Author Buzz Staff A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on whats creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture. A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on whats creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture. News18's viral page features trending stories, videos , and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: April 04, 2025, 13:49 IST 40 Hours And Counting: Over 250 Virgin Atlantic Passengers Stranded In Turkey, To Return To Mumbai Today Curated By : & News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 09:47 IST Flight VS358, which was en route from London Heathrow to Mumbai on April 2, was cancelled after an urgent medical diversion to Diyarbakr, Turkey. Image used for representation Over 250 passengers including Indians, stuck in Turkey after a Virgin Atlantic flight (VS358) that took off from London Heathrow to Mumbai in April was diverted to Diyarbakr Airport, will be flown back to Mumbai today. The flight was diverted due to an urgent medical reason and the passengers have been stuck for over 39 hours now. After receiving the required technical clearances, the flight is set to depart from Diyarbakr Airport and continue to Mumbai at 12:00 local time today, according to the airline. Recommended Stories Virgin Atlantic said on Thursday that it was considering all possible solutions, including deploying an alternative aircraft, to fly passengers to Mumbai. In a statement, the airline explained that flight VS358, which was en route from London Heathrow to Mumbai on April 2, was cancelled after an urgent medical diversion to Diyarbakr, Turkey. Upon arrival at the airport, the A350-1000 aircraft faced a technical issue, which is currently being addressed. We are actively exploring all options, including the operation of an alternative aircraft, to ensure customers can reach Mumbai as soon as possible," the airline stated. One of the stranded passengers told PTI that they were forced to sit on the floor, with no blankets available. Also, there is no vegetarian food available," the passenger shared, speaking on the condition of anonymity. In an updated statement, Virgin Atlantic confirmed that passengers were being provided with hotel accommodation and refreshments for the night in Turkey. One passenger, Hanuman Dass, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration, revealing that over 300 Indians and British citizens were stuck in Turkey in what he described as an awful situation." Dass mentioned that his family was among the stranded passengers. Doing nothing to help the people, 1 toilet for 300 people, and held in a confined space for over 15 hours. @VirginAtlantic staff nowhere to be seen. My family is caught up," he posted. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In another update, Dass said that passengers had not received any information and that it had been 27 hours since they left London. (With inputs from agency) Location : Turkey First Published: April 04, 2025, 09:47 IST Elder Brother, Spiritual Master: Bhutan PM All Praise For PM Modi As They Meet In Thailand Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 17:26 IST Tobgay and Modi met in Thailand's Bangkok on the sidelines of 6th BIMSTEC Summit. Tobgay and Modi met in Thailand's Bangkok on the sidelines of 6th BIMSTEC Summit. (X) Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay on Friday described his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi as his elder brother" and mentor". Tobgay and Modi met in Thailands Bangkok on the sidelines of 6th BIMSTEC Summit. While speaking to news agency ANI, Tobgay said, I consider PM Modi as my elder brother. He guides me, so I consider him as my mentor, and every meeting with him is very special." Recommended Stories The Bhutanese primer further dubbed PM Modi as spiritual leader" and praised his podcast with American podcaster Lex Fridman saying that he felt as he was listening to a spiritual master". He further said that he listened to the podcast in both English and Hindi and spoke to the Prime Minister. Ive listened to the Lex Fridman interview with Prime Minister Modi, and I listened to it in English, but also in Hindi, even though I dont understand too much Hindi, but I wanted to listen to it in original, and I reported to Prime Minister. I said, elder brother, I listened to that podcast, and I saw a spiritual leader. I felt like I was listening to a spiritual master. It was very spiritually fulfilling," he said. #WATCH | Bangkok, Thailand: Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay says, I consider PM Modi as my elder brother. He guides me, so I consider him as my mentor, and every meeting with him is very special. This time also, we very briefly touched about the proceedings of BIMSTEC and Indias pic.twitter.com/rBWZXU8bNb ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2025 Tobgay further emphasised on Indias leadership role in BIMSTEC as the biggest country. During the meet, we very briefly touched about the proceedings of BIMSTEC and Indias leadership role in BIMSTEC as the biggest country, as the biggest Member State of BIMSTEC, most populous Member State, the biggest economy and the most powerful country in the BIMSTEC region. We look forward to Indias leadership, and Prime Minister Modi has been exercising that leadership. So I mentioned on how good things look for BIMSTEC in finally achieving, realizing some of its potential," he said. On meeting Tobgay on the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi said that both the countries are cooperating in several sectors. PM Modi added that Indias friendship with Bhutan is robust. In a post on X, he said, Had a great conversation with my good friend, PM Tobgay. Indias friendship with Bhutan is robust. We are cooperating extensively in several sectors." BIMSTEC Summit 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The BIMSTEC Summit, hosted by Thailand, is attended by leaders from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Bhutan. The BIMSTEC Summit adopted the Bangkok Vision 2030 to realise the shared commitment to prosperity, security, and inclusivity in the Bay of Bengal region. BIMSTEC serves as a bridge connecting South Asia and Southeast Asia. It is emerging as an effective platform to open new avenues of regional connectivity, cooperation, and prosperity," the Prime Minister said. About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More Location : Bangkok, Thailand First Published: April 04, 2025, 17:14 IST Full Of Lies: Netanyahu Says He Didn't Ask His Security Chief To Delay Graft Trial Against Him Published By : AFP Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 22:49 IST Ronen Bar said in a letter that Netanyahu had requested his intervention in the prime minister's corruption trial. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks at a memorial ceremony for those murdered by Hamas, at the Knesset, the Parliament, in Jerusalem. (IMAGE: REUTERS FILE) Israels internal security chief who the government has sought to dismiss said in a letter made public Friday that Benjamin Netanyahu had requested his intervention in the prime ministers corruption trial. In November 2024, the prime minister repeatedly asked that I provide a security assessment that would determine that the security circumstances do not allow for his continuous testimony in his criminal trial", which could extend gaps between court appearances, Ronen Bar said in a letter to the supreme court to challenge the government decision to dismiss him. The letter was published by the attorney general. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Recommended Stories Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday said a letter published by the internal security chief alleging the premier had asked him to help delay his corruption trial was full of lies". This statement is full of lies," a statement from Netanyahus office said, adding that the discussion that took place was about the location of the testimony, not its existence". About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Jerusalem, Undefined First Published: April 04, 2025, 22:49 IST Hindu Temple Vandalised In Canada, Police Launch Manhunt To Nab Two Suspects Published By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 16:47 IST Police in Ontario are searching for two men who vandalized the Sri Krishna Brundavana Temple in the GTA. The incident is being investigated as a hate crime. Suspect photos released. Halton Police have tweeted this image of two men who are suspected of vandalising Sri Krishna Brundavana Temple. (IMAGE: Halton Police/X) Police in Ontario are searching for two men who vandalised the Sri Krishna Brundavana Temple in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The officials speaking to Canadian news outlet Halton Hills Today described it as an act of mischief. In a statement on Thursday, Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) said it was investigating the incident, which took place around an hour past midnight on Sunday in Georgetown. Recommended Stories According to police, security footage showed two suspectsboth young, white men in hooded sweatshirtsleaving a pub in the area before walking to the temple, where they were seen ripping down and damaging a sign at the entrance. Their photos have now been released as part of efforts to identify them. An official from the temple told Halton Hills Today that the incident was a hate crime against Hindus and linked it to past attacks on Hindu places of worship in Canada. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Hindu Canadian Foundation (HCF) reacted strongly, saying the incident must be viewed in context" given the rise of extremism. The growing influence of radical ideologies has led to hateful actions targeting Hindu Canadians and their sacred spaces. Such actions threaten the harmony of our diverse communities," it said in a post on X. Canada has seen multiple instances of Hindu temples being targeted by extremists in recent years. In November 2023, a pro-Khalistan protest outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton escalated into an invasion, with congregants being attacked inside the premises. A Peel Regional Police sergeant was suspended for participating in the protest, while Inderjeet Gosal, the lead organiser of the Khalistan referendum in Canada, was arrested for his alleged role in the attack. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Ottawa, Canada First Published: April 04, 2025, 16:47 IST Indian-Origin Catholic Priest Shot Dead At Church Rectory In US, Suspect In Custody Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 14:39 IST Father Arul Carasala, an Indian-origin Catholic priest from Andhra Pradesh, was fatally shot in Seneca, Kansas. The suspect was taken into custody. Indian-origin priest shot and killed in Kansas (Photo: Facebook) An Indian-origin Catholic priest was shot and killed in Kansas City, the United States. The deceased was identified as Father Arul Carasala, whose family lived in Andhra Pradeshs Kadapa. The priest was shot by a man who approached him at his parish rectory in the town of Seneca. Recommended Stories The suspect was reportedly taken into custody, a post on the parish Facebook page stated. Archbishop Joseph Naumann, of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, in a Facebook post, termed the incident a senseless act of violence" and stated that there was no ongoing threat to the community". I am heartbroken to share the tragic news of the death of Fr. Arul Carasala, who was fatally shot earlier today. This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend," Naumann wrote in the post. Fr. Carasala was a devoted and zealous pastor who faithfully served our Archdiocese for over twenty years, including as dean of the Nemaha-Marshall region. His love for Christ and His Church was evident in how he ministered to his people with great generosity and care. His parishioners, friends, and brother priests will deeply miss him," he added. There is no ongoing threat to the community, but I recognize the pain and shock that such an event brings. In moments like these, we turn to our Lord, who is close to the brokenhearted. As we grieve, may we find strength in our faith and in the hope of Christs Resurrection," his post read. Carasala was ordained as a priest in 1994 in his native India and served in Kansas since 2004. He became a US citizen in 2011. Since then, he had been the pastor at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca, according to his profile on the parish website. A post on the page claimed the priest was shot at the church rectory and died shortly after at a local hospital. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Associated Press quoted Kris Anderson, the parishs director of religious education, as saying, From what we know, an older man walked up to him and shot him three times." The reason for the killing was yet not known. About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: April 04, 2025, 14:39 IST Indian-Origin Priest Shot Dead In US' Kansas, Suspect Held Published By : Associated Press Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 20:53 IST An Oklahoma man, Gary Hermesch, is held on suspicion of fatally shooting Catholic priest Arul Carasala at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca, Kansas. Carasala, 57, died in the hospital. Rev. Arul Carasala, a pastor at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca, Kan., was fatally shot Thursday. (IMAGE: AP PHOTO/LEAVEN) An Oklahoma man is being held on suspicion of fatally shooting a Catholic priest at a church rectory in northeast Kansas, authorities said. Officers called to the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca on Thursday afternoon found Arul Carasala with gunshot wounds outside the rectory, the Nemaha County Sheriffs Office said in a Facebook post. Recommended Stories The 57-year-old priest was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where he died. Sheriffs deputies and officers with the Seneca Police Department later arrested Gary Hermesch of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Authorities say Hermesch, 66, is being held in the Nemaha County Jail on suspicion of first-degree murder. The Associated Press left a phone message with county prosecutor Brad Lippert seeking additional information. Authorities have not released a possible motive for the shooting or said whether the suspect and the priest knew each other. Kris Anderson, the parishs director of religious education, told the AP on Thursday through tears that she knew few details. From what we know, an older man walked up to him (Carasala) and shot him three times," she said. The priests death left people in shock in Seneca, a city of about 2,100 where Carasala had been the pastor at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church since 2011, according to his profile on the parish website. He was ordained as a priest in 1994 in his native India and had served in Kansas since 2004. He became a US citizen in 2011. Archbishop Joseph Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas said in a Facebook post that there was no ongoing threat to the community, but that he recognized the pain and shock" the priests death had brought to the community. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend," he wrote. Seneca is about 60 miles (97 kilometers) north of Topeka, about 90 miles (145 kilometers) northwest of Kansas City and about 300 miles (480 kilometers) north of Tulsa. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Seneca, Kansas First Published: April 04, 2025, 20:53 IST Japan PM Says Donald Trump Tariffs Are A 'National Crisis' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 09:37 IST Donald Trump announced a 24-percent levy on imports from Japan even though the countrys firms are the biggest investors into the United States. US President Donald Trump (Image Credit: Reuters) Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said that tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trumps administration are a national crisis" as he prepared to hold cross-party talks on mitigating the impact on the country. Donald Trump announced a 24-percent levy on imports from Japan even though the countrys firms are the biggest investors into the United States. Recommended Stories Shigeru Ishiba said in the parliament that the levies can be called a national crisis and the government is doing its best with all parties." Calling for a calm-headed" approach to negotiations with Trumps administration, Ishibatold his ministers to study closely" the tariffs and to take all measures necessary including financing support" for domestic industries and protecting employment. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all As it is necessary for all parties including the opposition bloc to study and take measures, Prime Minister Ishiba will meet with each of the party leaders and listen to their opinions", his spokesperson said. Japans main Nikkei 225 index dropped over three percent on Friday, following a 2.7 percent decline on Thursday after the S&P 500 in Wall Street experienced its largest single-day drop since 2020. About the Author Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" Location : Tokyo, Japan First Published: April 04, 2025, 09:37 IST Residents have won a battle to save a 24-metre-high tree that council had claimed was damaging a fence. Locals celebrated under the tree they saved with glasses of "bubbles" . Source: Supplied An Aussie council has backflipped on a controversial plan to remove a towering tree. The decision follows an angry response from residents who waged a sustained campaign to save the weeping fig that had sheltered their Sydney street for decades. Yahoo News first reported on Randwick City Councils plan on March 6. Its councillors were accused of rushing through the decision after an apartment owner complained roots from the 24-metre-high giant were damaging his lawn, fence and driveway. On Thursday night, residents of Quail Street, Clovelly broke open champagne and celebrated under the tree. Local woman Zoe Wilesmith told Yahoo News the councils decision was a common sense reversal of what had been an appalling plan. I can't tell you the high, honestly. It's absolutely fantastic They certainly underestimated the community of Quail Street, she said. ADVERTISEMENT Another resident Maria Bradley said supporters of the tree received emails from Aussies far and wide. They could see that the tree didn't need to have come down, she said. Petrana Lorenz, whose apartment looks out onto the tree said, "this decision is a win for the tree, a win for our community, but most of all it's a win for showing that it's worth fighting for what's right". Red more on how the tree fight unfolded: The fig is part of a row of five which provide habitat for ringtail possums, white-faced herons, rainbow lorikeets and cockatoos. Source: Supplied Why did council want to kill the towering tree? Council had previously claimed it had no choice but to cut down the tree because its insurance agency would not cover future liability if it proceeded with the residents damage claim. But residents commissioned their own independent engineering and arborist reports which disputed the tree was responsible. ADVERTISEMENT Something had clearly gone wrong with council procedures for it to have got to the point of removing the tree. Anybody with two eyes and half a brain could see that there was no property damage caused by the tree, Zoe said. Residents now plan to create a "how to" guide to support other residents fighting councils that want to destroy trees. Following the uproar from residents, councillors met for an extraordinary general meeting last week to hear from residents and reevaluate the trees future. But the meeting concluded with them voting once again to cut it down. This prompted Professor Sarah Bekessy from RMIT and the Biodiversity Council to call for mature trees in cities to be federally protected because they are being destroyed at a rapid rate. Theres always an excuse for getting rid of a tree, whether its safety or damage to infrastructure. But thats just missing the point about their enormous benefits, she told Yahoo News. Why did council spare the tree? Residents were preparing to take the matter to the NSW Land and Environment Court, when council backflipped on its decision. They had requested internal documents from council, so they could scrutinise the process that led to the removal plan. ADVERTISEMENT In a statement, the councils mayor Dylan Parker said it had reached an agreement with its insurer, Statewide Mutual, to obtain partial insurance cover for the tree. This positive change of circumstance means that our risk exposure has now been reduced to a level that no longer requires removal of the tree, he said. While some branch pruning of trees may still be required, this is an excellent outcome which I am confident the community will be pleased by as it in practice saves the tree. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. Russian Strike Kills 14 In Zelenskyy's Hometown; Ukrainian Leader Says 'Moscow Doesn't Want Ceasefire' Published By : AFP Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 23:49 IST The Russian missile struck a residential area near a children's playground and wounded more than 50 people, according to the head of the city's military administration. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian strikes occurred every day, showing that it was not interested in a ceasefire. (Reuters/X) A Russian ballistic missile strike on Volodymyr Zelenskyys home city of Kryvyi Rig killed 14 people on Friday, including six children, the Ukrainian leader said. The missile struck a residential area near a childrens playground and wounded more than 50 people, according to the head of the citys military administration. Recommended Stories Unverified videos on social media appeared to show bodies lying on a street, while another showed a plume of smoke rising into the evening sky. It was preliminarily a ballistic missile attack. As of now, 14 people have been killed, including six children," Zelenskyy said on Telegram. The rescue operation was ongoing, he added. A Russian missile struck an ordinary city, directly hitting a street in an area with residential buildings. Preliminary reports suggest it was a ballistic missile strike. As of now, 14 fatalities have been confirmed, including six children. My condolences to their families and pic.twitter.com/OO7CEzTnoW Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) April 4, 2025 Regional governor Sergiy Lysak said the number of reported casualties was constantly increasing". There is only one reason why this continues Russia does not want a ceasefire and we see it. The whole world sees it," Zelenskyy said. And only the worlds pressure on Russia, all efforts to strengthen Ukraine, our air defence, our forces only this will determine when the war will end." The Ukrainian leader was born in Kryvyi Rig, which had a pre-war population of around 600,000 people. US President Donald Trumps administration has been pushing for a speedy end to the more than three-year war, holding talks with both Russia and Ukraine. Moscow has rejected a joint US-Ukrainian proposal for an unconditional and full ceasefire, while Ukraine has accused Russia of dragging out talks with no intention of halting its offensive. Ukrainian Official Accuse Russia Of War Crime Kryvyi Rig, in Ukraines central Dnipropetrovsk region, is about 60 kilometres (37 miles) from the front line but has regularly been targeted by Russian drones and missiles. A previous Russian ballistic attack on the city on Wednesday killed at least four people and wounded more than a dozen others. Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the citys military administration, said the missile landed near a childrens playground. Five apartment buildings were damaged, interior minister Igor Klymenko said. He said police had blocked off the area to maintain order. The police are documenting the consequences of Russias war crime and accepting statements from the victims," he added. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Social media video from the scene showed a car in flames, while people could be heard shouting. Andriy Kovalenko, a Ukrainian official tasked with countering disinformation, described the missile involved in the attack as an Iskander". The Iskander is a Russian ballistic missile system that can have a range of up to 500 kilometres (311 miles). This is a deliberate strike to kill a large number of people," Kovalenko said. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Location : Kyiv, Ukraine First Published: April 04, 2025, 23:49 IST Trump Cracks Down On Romance: US Govt Officials Forbidden From Dating Chinese Nationals Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: April 04, 2025, 20:38 IST The "non-fraternisation" policy was put into effect in January by former US Ambassador Nicholas Burns shortly before he left China, banning any romantic relations with Chinese nationals. The Trump administration has banned govt personnel from "romantic, sexual relationships" with Chinese nationals. The Donald Trump administration has imposed a ban on American government personnel in China, including their family members and contractors with security clearances, from pursuing romantic and sexual relationships with Chinese citizens. Four people with direct knowledge of the matter told the Associated Press that the policy was put into effect in January by former US Ambassador Nicholas Burns shortly before he left China. While US agencies already have strict rules on such relationships, a blanket non-fraternisation" policy had been unheard of publicly since the Cold War. Recommended Stories It was not uncommon for American diplomats in other countries to date locals and even marry them. However, due to geopolitical rivalries and security concerns, a policy was enacted last summer prohibiting US personnel from romantic and sexual relations" with Chinese citizens working as guards and other support staff at the US embassy and five consulates in China. However, Burns broadened it to a blanket ban on such relations with any Chinese citizen in China in January, days before President Donald Trump took office, prohibiting any romantic and sexual" relationship, after members of the US Congress said the restrictions on such relationships were not stringent enough, according to two people with the knowledge. Where Does This New Policy Apply To? The new policy covers US missions in mainland China, including the embassy in Beijing and consulates in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang and Wuhan, as well as the American consulate in the semi-autonomous territory of Hong Kong. It does not apply to US personnel stationed outside China. US personnel with pre-existing relations with Chinese nationals can apply for exemptions. If the exemption is denied, they must end the relationship or leave their position, the people said. Anyone who violates the policy will be ordered to leave China immediately. This policy has been communicated verbally to all US government personnel stationed in January but was not personally announced. The US State Department said it does not comment on internal matters, while Burns did not reply to a request on his email address. Why Was This Policy Introduced? Intelligence services across the world have long used attractive men and women to obtain sensitive information, particularly during the Cold War. Several US agencies had stringent requirements on personal relationships for American personnel stationed in China, as well as countries with high intelligence threats like Russia or Cuba. According to declassified State Department records, the US government in 1987 barred personnel stationed in the Soviet Union and China from befriending, dating or having sex with locals after a US Marine in Moscow was seduced by a Soviet spy. These restrictions were relaxed after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Until the new ban in January, US personnel in China were required to report any intimate contact with Chinese citizens to their supervisors, but were not explicitly forbidden from sexual or romantic relationships. However, several diplomats and intelligence experts say Beijing has aggressively used honeypots to obtain sensitive American information. In recent years, tensions between Washington and Beijing have escalated over trade, technology and geopolitical competition. The two countries are officially at the start of a new trade war after Trump imposed harsh tariffs on Chinese goods, to which Beijing replied with counter-tariffs of its own. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Peter Mattis, a former CIA analyst and president of The Jamestown Foundation, a Washington-based think tank, said there were at least two publicized cases in which Chinese agents seduced American diplomats stationed in China, though he hasnt heard of such a case in recent years. (with agency inputs) About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: April 04, 2025, 20:28 IST The entire island was silent for 24 hours and Sydney man Brad Newman wants other countries to do adopt the 'incredible' event. Brad Newman and his family were unable to leave their accommodation or turn on lights during Bali's Nyepi Day. Windows were even covered, as shown by the red circle. Source: TikTok/thetravelandfoodguys & Supplied Tourists were not permitted to leave their accommodation or even turn on a light last Saturday in Bali as the entire island came to a "standstill" for Nyepi Day a Hindu cleansing celebration that wards off bad spirits for the year ahead. It's the second time Sydney man Brad Newman has experienced the event also known as Bali's Day of Silence. The stark difference between Bali's usual chaos to only hearing a few bird chirps over a 24 hour period is an "absolutely crazy" experience, he told Yahoo News. "You basically can't hear anything, maybe some birds and sometimes roosters. But there's no cars on the streets and no one is allowed to leave their house at all," he said. "No lights are allowed on. No cooking. No music. They turn the internet off and the airport is closed." Almost total stillness across the island. No cars are on the road and windows are covered in garbage bags to stop light spilling onto the streets for Bali's Nyepi Day. Source: Supplied Brad now resides in Bali with his partner and two children, however last year they were staying in a resort during Nyepi Day and were practically locked inside, with staff covering windows and glass doors with garage bags to prevent light from spilling out onto the street. ADVERTISEMENT Images from Nyepi Day show no movement, light or sound in the streets of Bali as locals and tourists honoured the spiritual practice that marks the start of the Balinese Saka New Year. "Leading up to the day the streets are really quiet and most shops close. And the week after, everything is quieter and the banks are still closed," Brad explained. Push for Bali's Day of Silence to go global Bali's Day of Silence was designed to encourage self-reflection among Balinese people as well as all those visiting the hugely popular tourist island. The quiet, empty streets are a stark comparison to the normal bustle of Bali and that is the point, Henry Hooper from travel advisory agency Klook told Yahoo News. ADVERTISEMENT "Tourists should embrace the spiritual Nyepi Day experience while visiting Bali as the rules of the celebration apply to visitors as much as the locals," he said. "This means, for one day, visitors to the island can take this time to make the most of their resort and enjoy some time relaxing, and maybe even some meditative thinking of their own." Brad is also a Nyepi Day enthusiast and believes the tradition should be adopted in other countries too. "It would be good to see it all over the world," he said. "It's incredible." Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Plus two men have been charged after they allegedly took loaded guns into a crowd of 82,000 people. The vehicle of missing mum Tayla Spies was found a day earlier. Yahoo's live news blog for Friday, April 4 has now concluded. Human remains believed to be of a missing mum who vanished in Queensland almost two months ago have been found, police say. Bunnings is slowly introducing paid parking at some stores, but it insists the move is not about the money and to ensure customers can find a park. Will this change be coming to your local Bunnings? World leaders have expressed their anger over Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs which impacted pretty every country on the planet. See all of the day's updates below. LIVE COVERAGE IS OVER 15 updates Wild price of highly-anticipated Nintendo Parents look away now. If your kid wants Nintendo's highly-anticipated Switch 2, it will cost you a whopping $700. Why has the console shot up in price? Well according to one expert, nobody's there to stop them. "Nintendo can point towards rising material and manufacturing costs globally, tariffs etc., but it's mostly smoke and mirrors," Course Director for Games and Interactivity at Swinburne University Dr Steven Conway said. The fact is simply that Sony raised the price of the PlayStation 5, received backlash, but ultimately got away with it, and Microsoft followed suit by upping the price of the Xbox. Now Nintendo is following along; they will always charge the maximum they think consumers will pay in the market." But with ongoing cost of living pressures, Dr Conway believes this could be the tipping point with consumers. I think Nintendo might be in for a bit of a shock after the initial wave of day one sales. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nintendo AU & NZ (@nintendoaunz) Human remains found in search for missing mum Police have found human remains in their search for missing mum Tayla Spies, who vanished two months ago in outback Queensland. Police have found the human remains about 1km from Spies vehicle, which was found on a private property on April 3. Although we cannot confirm, at this stage, that those remains are those of Tayla, we suspect they may be, Detective Chief Inspector Garry Watts said on Friday. A complete forensic examination will need to be conducted to verify that. The 29-year-old woman was reported missing on February 2 after failing to return home from a weekend trip with her partner in Dalby in Queenslands Western Downs. Police believe they've found the human remains of Tayla Spies. Mokbel walks free Well there it is. Tony Mokbel has walked out of a Melbourne court on bail, in the first taste of freedom in nearly 20 years for the notorious gangland figure. A crowd could be heard cheering as they lined the street with a large media pack on Friday afternoon, to which Mokbel responded with a smile. He was escorted by about 15 police officers for the short walk from the courthouse door to a black Mercedes AMG. Read more from NCA NewsWire here. Tony Mokbel on the streets of Melbourne. Source: NewsWire Super funds targeted by cyber criminals Cyber criminals are targeting several superannuations funds with the Department of Home Affairs urgently investigating. Some members of Australian Super have reportedly lost at least $100,000 in retirement savings, according to the ABC. Read more about the breach from Yahoo Finance here. Albo dodges Donald Trump question Sticking with the prime minister now and something a little more serious. Pressed on what direct contact he has with Donald Trump and who is making that phone call to discuss our trade concerns, Anthony Albanese failed to answer. "What we do is we engage diplomatically," he said, failing to answer the question. Opposition leader Peter Dutton has slammed Albanese in recent days, claiming the PM has no direct contact with Trump. Albanese has stressed his government has ongoing discussions with the Trump administration but has failed to offer much more detail than that. Albo's dog thinks she's the Rabbitohs logo Anthony Albanese has just been asked if he feels "straightjacketed" as prime minister after joking he's "not allowed to have fun in this job". "There are restrictions in the job but that's part of the deal and it's an incredible privilege," he told reporters. Giving an example of how he lets his hair down, the PM said he was off to watch the Bunnies tonight as they face the Roosters. "I'm watching it with Jody and my son and Toto. All four of us are South Sydney supporters. Toto, in fact, thinks that little rabbit is actually a Toto symbol," he revealed. You know what, we'll let Toto off with that one as it's not a bad shout. Toto is a Bunnies fan, and thinks she could be an actual bunny as well. Aussies' cost-of-living confidence grows Well it appears Australians are getting more optimistic about their finances, with household spending rising once again. Anthony Albanese said following the Federal Budget he believes the country has "turned a corner" in terms of the cost of living, and household spending rose 0.2 per cent in February, the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed. It follows a 0.5 per cent rise in January and a 0.2 per cent rise in December, and marks the fifth consecutive month where it has risen. Homeowners were given a little bit of breathing room when the RBA lowered the cash rate for the first time in nearly three years in February, and there are now calls for governor Michele Bullock to slash it by 50 basis points for the first time in over a decade following Donald Trump's latest round of tariffs. US lashes Australia's 'nonsense' concerns The US's beef with Australia is ramping up, with a top US official trashing Canberra's biosecurity concerns and claimed they are being used to "block" American markets. As the fallout from President Donald Trump's sweeping trade measures continues to reverberate, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick pointed to the 10 per cent tariff slapped on Australian goods to justify the executive order. The United States has long taken issue with Australia's ban on uncooked American beef imports, which has been in place since a 2003 mad cow disease outbreak. Australia also does not allow fresh pork imports, uncooked poultry or pears and apples from the US to prevent pests and bacteria. But Mr Lutnick decried these restrictions. Trump and Albanese have different views on the beef market. Source: Getty "This is nonsense, this is all nonsense," he told CNN. "What happens is, they block our markets. "When we open those markets, our volumes grow, our farmers will thrive and the price of groceries will come down." There is some validity to the Americans' accusations as Australia has used "beyond-the-border" tariffs, Australian National University politics lecturer Jill Sheppard said. "Rather than imposing financial tariffs, we use the biosecurity regime as a form of trade policy," she told AAP. "Everyone involved in primary industries knows it, everyone that watches politics knows it." Read more here. Notorious gangland figure Tony Mokbel to be freed One of Australia's most notorious gangland figures will be released on bail after almost two decades in prison. Tony Mokbel, 59, arrived at court on Friday morning from prison in an armoured BearCat vehicle, with dozens of police surrounding the gates, as he was whisked into court to learn his fate. He smiled, patted his lawyer on the shoulder and briefly spoke to his legal team ahead of the decision being handed down. Mokbel arrived in court in an armoured vehicle. Source: NewsWire Three Court of Appeal justices decided he should be freed, about 10am, after he applied for bail earlier this week as he fights to overturn his remaining drug trafficking convictions on a long-awaited Lawyer X appeal. "As he was required to Mr Mokbel has established his circumstances are truly exceptional," court president, Justice Karin Emerton, said. She then went a step further in saying "he has a very strong case that his convictions should be quashed". Mokbel had not tasted freedom since his 2007 arrest in Greece, after he famously absconded inside a yacht while on bail with a $1 million surety from his sister-in-law Renate. Read more here. Albo says he didn't fall despite reports Well plenty of you have seen the photos after Anthony Albanese lost his footing on the campaign trail yesterday. But the PM has claimed he didn't actually fall, instead missing a step off the stage. "Just one leg went down and I was sweet," the 62-year-old told the ABC. Albo being helped up on Thursday. Source: NewsWire Trump confident trade war will make US 'amazing' There was a sizeable sharemarket drop in Australia and now trillions of dollars have been wiped in a daunting Wall Street collapse. But a defiant Donald Trump is remaining optimistic about his trade war amid a chorus of criticism. "It's to be expected. This is a patient that was very sick," the US president said. "We really inherited a terrible economy as you know. A lot of problems including loss of manufacturing." "It's going to be a booming country. A very booming country. It's going to be amazing actually." Two men allegedly caught with loaded guns in 82,000 MCG crowd AFL fans are eager for explanation about how two men allegedly caught with guns inside the MCG managed to bypass security and bring firearms into the stadium. Victoria Police said the weapons were found on each of the men during a search about 8.30pm on Thursday, as a crowd of 82,058 fans watched Collingwood defeat Carlton. Officers were asked to get involved when the men refused a request from security to leave the venue over their behaviour, the force said. It is unclear how the weapons got into the MCG, which underwent a security upgrade in 2024. AFL Fans Association President Ron Issko was shocked by the incident and said nothing like this had ever happened. Read more here. World reacts to Donald Trump's tariffs We heard plenty from Anthony Albanese about Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs and other leaders around the world have been equally critical. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen issued a warning to the US president, stressing: "If you take on one of us, you take on all of us." French President Emmanuel Macron branded the tariffs as "brutal and unfounded", while Germany's economic minister Robert Habeck said pressure must be applied to Trump to reverse this decision. Beijing promised countermeasures, insisting there is "no way out for protectionism". Japan, which copped a 24 per cent tariff, said it was "extremely regrettable". In a message widely delivered from leaders, UK prime minister Keir Starmer said "nobody wins in a trade war". Bunnings car park shift angers customers Bunnings is rolling out paid parking at more and more stores, leaving some customers furious with the move. The change at their Caroline Springs store meant shoppers only get one hour of free parking before charges begin. New signage of the charges was shared online, sparking anger from some. However Bunnings stresses the change is not about the money but to ensure there's enough parking for customers throughout the day, news.com.au reported. It's understood customers who are spending a long time in stores can discuss an exemption with staff. Shoppers buying plenty of things would have to rush in and out to avoid charges. Source: Reddit Major update after young mum vanishes two months ago There's been a major update in the search for missing mum Tayla Spies, who vanished in outback Queensland two months ago. Queensland Police say they've located 28-year-old Tayla's white Toyota Hilux, which investigators had repeatedly asked the public to report any sighting of. She was last seen travelling along the Carnarvon Highway heading towards Roma on February 2. Police were called to a property in Noorindoo where it's understood the vehicle was found, however initial searches of the area have been unable to locate Tayla. Searches will continue this morning. Taylor Spies' vehicle has been located. Source: Queensland Police Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Efforts by some renegade former Zanu-PF officials to unseat the democratically elected Government of Zimbabwe will fail dismally, a senior official has said. Speaking at a rally to drum up support for Zanu-PF Glen View South Constituency candidate Cde Tsitsi Tranquillity Tawomhera in Harare on Wednesday, Zanu-PF Mashonaland East Provincial Chairman, who is also the Local Government and Public Works Minister, Cde Daniel Garwe, said efforts by some former Zanu-PF officials to unconstitutionally undermine or remove the democratically elected Government would come to grief. He said the ruling party and Government are solidly behind the leadership of President Mnangagwa. President Mnangagwa won the election (in 2023). Now, in his second term, some people are already plotting, saying they cant wait for his term to end and are calling for demonstrations to remove him. What do they mean they cant wait? There is no office without a leader. Cde Mnangagwa is our President, whether they like it or not, Cde Garwe said. He said President Mnangagwa has the people at heart, as demonstrated by life-changing development programmes, including the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP) and the Presidential Borehole Scheme. The developmental programmes spearheaded by President Mnangagwa give us an advantage and show that our leader is pragmatic and committed to the people. Road rehabilitation is ongoing under ERRP, and the borehole scheme is progressing countrywide, Cde Garwe said. He also took a swipe at fugitive former Zanu-PF member Blessed Geza. A stray dog always has an owner. If you want to know its master, beat the dog, and the owner will come out. If you want to find out the mother of a puppy, grab the puppy, and the mother will bark and charge at you. Right now, we are dealing with Geza. Even if he calls for demonstrations, do not be misled, said Cde Garwe. Thanking citizens for ignoring Gezas calls for protests, Cde Garwe challenged him to come out of hiding and face him directly. I will make Geza wear an apology jersey for his rebellious utterances. Let me warn you, Geza do not rebel against Zanu-PF again. Comrades, tell Geza the time for rebels is over. Geza, stay in South Africa with (Saviour) Kasukuwere if you want. Our President is Emmerson Mnangagwa, he said. Chronicle THE details surrounding the alleged murder of Sergeant Abel Masava are as brutal as they are utterly chilling. On the morning of March 28, Sergeant Masava, alongside his colleague, Constable Magaya, was attending to a domestic violence complaint in Sizinda when he noticed five suspicious men walking past. The five were clad in black, blending seamlessly into the inky darkness of an autumn night in the densely populated suburb. As a law enforcement officer, the mens attire and the fact that they carried sacks long after most had retired from their daily labours, prompted Sergeant Masava to inquire about their activities. It was a fatal inquiry. Moments later, Sergeant Masava lay prone on the ground, bleeding profusely from a gunshot wound to the head. He was later pronounced dead on arrival at United Bulawayo Hospitals. In the Bulawayo of yesteryear, the incident would have plunged the city into a prolonged period of mourning, as people grappled with the untimely death of an officer of the law in such a violent manner. Collective tears shed over Sergeant Masavas death had even dried, another hair-raising incident involving firearms brought the city to a standstill only a few days later. Yeki Ncube, a member of the Nketa 8 Neighbourhood Watch Committee, found himself staring down the barrel of a gun when he and his colleagues encountered three men carrying bags and requested to search them. Before he could fully comprehend the situation, one of the three men produced a firearm and discharged it in his direction. As the suspects fled, swallowed by the inky blackness of the night, Ncube was left thanking his lucky stars for his continued existence. These two incidents, occurring in suburbs so geographically proximate, highlighted the escalating problem of gun violence in the City of Kings. Nowadays, the people of Bulawayo scarcely have the time to process the shock, let alone mourn a death or injury resulting from a gun-related incident, before another one transpires. Gun violence, once thought to be the exclusive domain of Johannesburg, the city to which many from Bulawayo migrate in search of prosperity, now seems to be the staple of all crime-related conversations in Bulawayo. Police officers, just like ordinary citizens, are increasingly finding themselves in the line of fire, as armed robbers in the city demonstrate a chilling willingness to use deadly force, even against law enforcement agents. Only a few weeks ago, Constable Cassandra Hove, a victim of alleged friendly fire, illustrated the perilous stakes that the countrys crime fighters face as they pursue some of the nations most dangerous criminals. Yet, barely a month after her demise, more police officers have found themselves in the crosshairs, as Bulawayo seemingly descends into a lawless Wild West. The 2024 third-quarter crime statistics report, recently released by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (Zimstat), revealed that Bulawayo has the highest crime rate in the country, nearly doubling the national average. The data paints a deeply concerning picture of rising crime in the province, with Bulawayo residents bearing a disproportionate share of the nations criminal burden. According to the report, Bulawayos crime rate is an alarming 2,506.1 per 100,000 people, significantly surpassing the national average of 1,370.6 per 100,000. The crime rate in Bulawayo Province nearly doubled the national crime rate, at 2,506.1 per 100,000 people against the national average of 1,370.6. Of the 205,925 cases recorded in the third quarter nationally, 84,001 were crimes against public safety and state security. The second most common type of crime recorded was acts against property only, with 48,566 cases. Acts leading to harm or intending to cause harm to the person were 40,078. The total number of persons charged by the police for all offences was 150,263, of which 89 percent were male, reads the report. A significant proportion of these incidents are gun-related robberies, which have left everyone, from business owners to private residents, living in fear of encountering gun-toting criminals. Fuel stations, in particular, have borne the brunt of the recent surge in crime, forcing business owners to alter their operating hours by closing early instead of remaining open 24 hours for security reasons. Their fears are not unfounded. Within the space of two days last week, robbers raided two service stations in Bulawayo and bound the attendants hands before escaping with cash. In the first incident, four men armed with a pistol pounced on Trek Garage in Gwabalanda and escaped with more than US$15,000 and R800 after attacking the fuel attendant and security guard, while in the second case, three men armed with pistols raided Amakhosi Service Station along the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road. We have witnessed the upsurge of armed robberies at fuel service stations around the city. We urge petrol attendants not to keep large sums of money on themselves or their premises but to deposit their monies in the safes under lock and key and day sales to be banked, said Acting Bulawayo police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele. Perhaps a greater concern for Bulawayo residents is that the perpetrators of gun crimes at times seem motivated by more than mere financial gain. High drama and sometimes callous violence have become hallmarks of some gun-related incidents. On 31 March, a 37-year-old man and his girlfriend had the misfortune of encountering a pair of particularly unpleasant individuals in Mbuyazwe along the Nyamandlovu road. What may have begun as a romantic getaway for the couple soon descended into a nightmare as the two assailants seized the man and wrestled with him for approximately 10 minutes before producing a black pistol and striking him twice on the back of the head. For good measure, they stabbed the man twice on each buttock with a knife, and to add insult to injury, they ransacked his car, taking four Samsung Galaxy cellphones and cash amounting to US$1,000 from his wallet. More gruesomely, one of the robbers then proceeded to sexually assault the mans girlfriend. Chronicle A Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) officer who was found in possession of illegal drugs including sex enhancing products with a street value of ZWG4 100, was yesterday sentenced to three months imprisonment. Energy Chivasa (29) who is stationed at Zvishavane Prisons was convicted on his own plea by Western Commonage magistrate, Mr Archie Wochiwunga. He was sentenced to three months imprisonment, which was wholly suspended on condition he pays a fine of US$250 or equivalent in ZWG, by April 30. Chivasa told the court that he bought the drugs intending to start a business for his wife. Prosecuting, Ms Audrey Kufandikamwe, told the court that Chivasa was arrested on April 1 during an impromptu search at the exit gate of Khami Maximum Prison Complex. On the 1st of April 2025 and at around 1pm, members of the ZPCS police were on duty when they searched the accused and recovered unregistered medicine. The accused was handed over to the CID drug section, said Ms Kufandikamwe. She said the recovered drugs include unregistered tablets such as ibuprofen, amoxicillin, syringes and needles and sex enhancing pills. Chronicle Tradition prevailed over progress in Chivi where the Makovere clansmen appointed a 102-year-old man, Sungai Dzatikona, new headman Makovere, sparking widespread outrage and controversy with other houses with claim to the throne challenging the outcome. Other clansmen felt that Dzatikona could no longer discharge required duties and keep the clan intact considering his advanced age and also that he was now visually impaired. Chief Nemauzhe confirmed the appointment of the centenary but said that traditionally, the eldest surviving member of the family in the generation is considered. I was chairing the selection process and they brought forward the one who was selected. Traditionally, the eldest surviving member of the family in the generation is considered. However, if they had not brought his ID no one would have known that he was there so the family is to blame for that, Nemauzhe said. In a letter to Chief Nemauzhe dated March 11 leaked to TellZim News, the concerned house said the selection process was hurried and they were not given enough time to do proper consultations. We take note of the meeting held at Paradza School on 27 February 2025 advising us to consult among ourselves. However, the Chisuwa house with vested interests in the Makovere headmaship has several households that are scattered in Zimbabwe. We have conducted most of the members with the hope of meeting this week. Our plans have been scuttled by this urgent invitation here, which we have grudgingly obliged to. We are now confused because we assumed we would invite the Chairman to that meeting, discuss and produce minutes for submission to the DA as family resolutions. Your urgent invitation has come too soon. It is our wish that we give you a family spokesperson for any future correspondences so that we avoid ambushes like this invitation. We are therefore requesting an extension to allow us to finalize the consultative process, read the letter. Nemauzhe also confirmed that other houses were complaining but theres nothing that could be done, even if it was clear that the selected person may not be fit for the job. Other houses are complaining but there was nothing we can do even if we see that the selected person could not be fit for the job, said Nemauzhe. The Chisuwa family also petitioned Chivi District Development Coordinator (DDC) Innocent Matingwina, saying the selection process was flawed. Asked for comment by TellZim News, Matingwina confirmed the selection saying it was above board and the age factor was not an issue as he was elected as per tradition. He also acknowledged that there were complaints by other houses but said that was normal in any traditional leader selection process. Yes he was selected and it was done as per tradition so it was above board, however, its normal to have complaints especially with regards to traditional leaders, thats the norm, said Matingwina. One family member said they had engaged the local DDC over the matter but he said the process was done and dusted so the selected member was going to be installed headman as per tradition. DDC Matingwina dismissed the matter with the indication that the process was done and dusted and will proceed regardless of our objections. We believe this stance is unfair and disregards our legitimate concerns said the family member. TellZimNews In the quiet town of Sabattus, Maine, a tranquil Wednesday afternoon turned into chaos. James Davis III, 29, fatally shot his mother, Christine Smith, 47, while she was driving their car. He exited the vehicle once it stopped and opened fire on passing cars, reports the AP . Katherine Williams, 53, was killed, and two othersTyson Turner, 19, and David Wilson, 35were injured. All victims were alone in their vehicles. Davis then fatally shot himself. Maine State Police Col. William Ross says that Smith, said to be Davis' primary caregiver, had driven him to visit his father's home on Wednesday morning. During the visit, family members say Davis starting experiencing a mental health crisis, "acting erratically and saying things that did not make sense," per WMTW. Authorities say they also discovered that Davis was in possession of both a .357 revolver and an AK-47 rifle, which they recovered after the shooting. Numerous police agencies responded to the scene and a section of the road was temporarily closed during the investigation. Investigators say that they haven't found any evidence of a criminal record or medical records that show Davis had a diagnosed mental illness, reports Maine Public Radio. They're also awaiting toxicology reports to see if Davis had any drugs in his system. Autopsies will be conducted on all three of the deceased. Ross said it's not common to see a domestic violence shooting between family members and random acts of violence in the same incident, per WMTW. The US government has banned American government personnel in China, as well as family members and contractors with security clearances, from any romantic or sexual relationships with Chinese citizens, the AP has learned. Four people with direct knowledge of the matter told the AP about the policy, which was put into effect by departing US Ambassador Nicholas Burns in January shortly before he left China. The people would speak only on condition of anonymity to discuss details of a confidential new directive. Though some US agencies already had strict rules on such relationships, a blanket "non-fraternization" policy, as it is known, has been unheard of publicly since the Cold War. It's not uncommon for American diplomats in other countries to date locals and even marry them In the wake of President Trump's "Liberation Day" tariffs, Volkswagen is adding a new fee to its vehicles. The German automaker told its dealers that later this month, an import fee will be added to the price of cars sold in the United States. The New York Times calls it "one of the first and clearest examples" of how automakers will deal with Trump's 25% tariffs on imports of cars, which took effect Thursday, and auto parts, which will take effect next month. VW also told dealers it has stopped rail shipments of cars to the US from Mexico for now, and will temporarily hold cars arriving from Europe at port, the Wall Street Journal reports. An American couple stranded in a Mexican jail for the past month over a timeshare dispute are now back in the States. NBC News reports that Christy and Paul Akeo "have been released from custody and have returned to Lansing, Michigan," per an attorney statement. Their story is a wild one, in which the Akeos claim they were kidnapped and shaken down by the timeshare company, while the company accuses the Akeos of defrauding them to the tune of six figures. More: Per CNN, the feud between the Akeos and Palace Elite Resorts began after the couple signed a timeshare agreement in 2021. The following year, prosecutors say, the Akeos had American Express "charge back," or reverse, 13 payments totaling $116,500. Palace accused them of fraud and of posting on Facebook about their antics, encouraging others to do the same. The Akeos accuse Palace of not providing the services they were promised. South Korea's Constitutional Court removed impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol from office on Friday, four months after he threw South Korean politics into turmoil by declaring martial law and sending troops to parliament in an ill-fated effort to break through legislative gridlock. The unanimous verdict comes more than three months after the opposition-controlled National Assembly voted to impeach Yoon, the AP reports. South Korea must now hold a national election within two months to find a new president. Surveys show Lee Jae-myung, leader of the main liberal opposition Democratic Party, is the early favorite to become the country's next president. At an anti-Yoon rally near the old royal palace that dominates downtown Seoul, people erupted into jubilant tears and dancing when the verdict was announced. Two women wept as they hugged and an old man near them leapt to his feet and screamed with joy. Yoon's declaration of martial law and subsequent impeachment plunged the country into political turmoil, with millions taking to the streets to denounce or support him. Many experts say Yoon supporters will likely intensify their rallies in the wake of the court's decision, prolonging national division. (Thousands of police officers descended on Seoul in anticipation of Friday's ruling.) In the quiet town of Seneca, Kansas, a serene rectory turned into the site of a tragedy as a beloved Catholic priest was shot and killed, leaving a stunned community seeking answers, the AP reports. Fr. Arul Carasala was reportedly approached Thursday afternoon by an older man who shot him three times. The suspect was taken into custody. Carasala had served as the pastor at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca since 2011 and was a part of the Kansas Archdiocese since 2004. Ordained in India in 1994, he became a US citizen in 2011. "I am heartbroken to share the tragic news of the death of Fr. Arul Carasala, who was fatally shot earlier today," Archbishop Joseph Naumann said in a statement. "This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend." Naumann confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the community, but parish officials say they don't yet know the suspected shooter's identity or motive. Fox 4 KC says the suspect is a 66-year-old Oklahoma man. "Let us also pray for the perpetrator, that God may touch and transform his heart," Naumann said in his statement, per KCTV 5. China has fired back at President Trump's "reciprocal" tariffs with massive tariffs on imports from the US. The state-run Xinhua news agency said Friday that China will impose additional tariffs of 34% on all US importsmatching the new tariffs Trump announced Wednesdaystarting Thursday. Stocks in Europe and Asia, which had already been falling on Friday, continued their slide after the announcement, the AP reports. Stock futures in the US dived sharply, with Dow Jones futures down more than 1,000 points. China also announced new controls on exports of rare earth minerals to the US, effective immediately, reports Reuters. "The purpose of the Chinese government's implementation of export controls on relevant items in accordance with the law is to better safeguard national security and interests, and to fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation," China's Commerce Ministry said in a statement. China said it would also add 27 American companies to lists of companies subject to trade sanctions or export controls, the AP reports. In a separate opinion piece before the announcement, Xinhua warned that "reciprocal" tariffs would only lead to reciprocal losses. "Washington's flagrant bullying practice indicates the US administration's growing jitters and anxiety concerning the retention of its position of superiority in an increasingly globalized world," it said. "However, it's ridiculous that the United States opts for protectionism instead of embracing the trend of the times. Playing the 'tariff card' is a lose-lose game that also hurts the United States itself." Actor and comedian Russell Brand has been charged with rape and sexual assault in London over alleged attacks on four different women between 1999 and 2005, reports the BBC. The 49-year-old faces five separate counts ranging from indecent assault to rape, per Deadline. Allegations surfaced against Brand in 2023 following an investigation by UK media outlets, and he has consistently denied them. Brand is due to appear in Westminster Magistrates' Court in London on May 2, per People. Time is running out for Russia to show the US it's not stalling and intends to negotiate a peace agreement with Ukraine, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday at NATO headquarters. "We will know soon enough, in a matter of weeks, not months, whether Russia is serious about peace or not," he said, adding that if not, members of Congress will have new sanctions ready to impose on Russia, the New York Times reports. Without progress being made, Rubio said, the Trump administration won't "be able to stop" more sanctions. If a global trade war is erupting, California would like to be left out of it. Gov. Gavin Newsom said Friday that his state will try to negotiate its own deals with other nations, Fox News reports. With foreign governments responding in kind to the US actions, the Democrat said in a video posted on X that "Donald Trump's tariffs do not represent all Americans." He added that for Californians, "state of mind is around supporting stable trading relationships around the globe." To other nations, Newsom assured that his government is "ready to talk," per Axios . California would be negotiating from a position of strength, as it leads the US in manufacturing and agriculture. The governor said California is "not scared to use our market power to fight back against the largest tax hike of our lifetime." Still, it's not clear whether a state can work out exemptions to tariffs with other nations, per the Los Angeles Times, and Newsom did not get specific. A White House spokesman responded Friday by saying Newsom should stick to dealing with California's problems "instead of trying his hand at international dealmaking." The state has a history of forging relationships with foreign nations and their local governments, sometimes diverging from presidential policy, per the Times. Newsom and former Gov. Jerry Brown cut their own deals with other countries on climate policies, for instance. Newsom signed agreements with officials in Italy and China last year. The state has what would be, if broken out, the world's fifth-largest economyas California governors regularly point out. A federal judge on Friday ordered the Trump administration to arrange for the return of a Maryland man to the US after he was mistakenly deported to a notorious El Salvador prison. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement expelled Kilmar Abrego Garcia last month despite an immigration judge's 2019 ruling that shielded him from deportation to his native El Salvador, where he faced likely persecution by local gangs, the AP reports. Before issuing her ruling, US District Judge Paula Xinis described Abrego Garcia's deportation as "an illegal act." Xinis questioned why Abrego Garcia was sent to the prison in El Salvador, which observers say is rife with human rights abuses. "Why is he there, of all places?" the judge asked. The judge's ruling came shortly after Abrego Garcia's wife joined dozens of supporters at a rally in Hyattsville, Maryland, to call for her husband's immediate return. Jennifer Vasquez Sura, an American citizen, hasn't spoken to Abrego Garcia since he was flown to El Salvador last month and imprisoned. She urged her supporters to keep fighting for her husband "and all the Kilmars out there whose stories are still waiting to be heard." The campaign to reunite the couple will shift to a courtroom in Greenbelt, Maryland, a suburb of Washington, DC. The White House has cast Kilmar Abrego Garcia, 29, as an MS-13 gang member and asserted that American courts lack jurisdiction over the matter because the Salvadoran national is no longer in the US. Abrego Garcia's attorneys have countered that there is no evidence he was in MS-13. The allegation is based on a confidential informant's claim in 2019 that Abrego Garcia was a member of a chapter in New York, where he has never lived. Abrego Garcia's deportation has been described by the White House as an "administrative error." He had a permit from the Department of Homeland Security to legally work in the US, said his attorney, Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg. He worked as a sheet metal apprentice and was pursuing his journeyman license. Theodore McCarrick, a onetime Washington, DC, cardinal and a Vatican and US envoy who was removed from the priesthood over sexual abuse, has died. He was 94 and was living in Dittmer, Missouri, the Washington Post reports. The Washington Archdiocese announced Friday that McCarrick had died the day before but provided no other information. "At this moment I am especially mindful of those who he harmed during the course of his priestly ministry," Archbishop Robert McElroy said in a statement, per the AP . "Through their enduring pain, may we remain steadfast in our prayers for them and for all victims of sexual abuse." After his appointment to the high-profile Washington post in 2001, McCarrick became a major fundraiser for causes espoused by the Roman Catholic Church and a champion of workers' rights, environmental safeguards, and the poor. Fluent in five languages, he was sent by the Vatican as an emissary to global trouble spots, and President Clinton dispatched him to China in 1998 to launch talks about religious freedom, per the Post. That career ended in 2018 when the Vatican suspended him from his priestly duties, after the Archdiocese of New York substantiated accusations that he had sexually abused a teenage boy in the early 1970s. In February 2019, Pope Francis expelled McCarrick from the priesthood after a canonical trial found him guilty of sexually abusing minors and adult seminarians over decades. A Vatican investigation blamed clergy, including Pope John Paul II, for not stopping the abuse sooner. A Post investigation found he had sent hundreds of thousands of dollars in archdiocese money to clerics involved in looking into the accusations. McCarrick also repeatedly avoided criminal punishment, per the New York Times. "McCarrick was never held accountable for his crimes," the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests said in a statement after his death. "While he was eventually removed from public ministry, defrocked, and stripped of his red hat, he never stood trial for the vast harm he inflicted on children, young adults, seminarians, and others under his power." The victims group added: "The McCarrick story is not just about one man. It is about the system that enabled him." The Trump administration secured a victory at the Supreme Court on Friday when a 5-4 ruling allowed the suspension of $65 million in educational grants intended to address the teacher shortage. The government argued that the money for training teachers would go to programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, the Washington Post reports. The grants were used to help place teachers in poor and rural areas while recruiting a workforce that reflected the communities, per the New York Times . The administration had filed an emergency appeal after lower courts blocked its attempt to suspend the grants. The Supreme Court has rejected the administration's first two emergency appeals arguing that lower courts are improperly blocking President Trump's agenda, per the AP. Chief Justice John Roberts dissented, along with the three justices appointed by Democratic presidents. Justice Elena Kagan wrote that an emergency intervention was not justified. "Nowhere in its papers does the Government defend the legality of canceling the education grants at issue here," she said. The eight states affected contend that the programs, the Teacher Quality Partnership and Supporting Effective Educator Development, cover teacher teacher preparation, often in math, science, and special education, and improve teacher retention. Their lawsuit proceeds. If the states win, the majority opinion says, per the Post, "they can recover any wrongfully withheld funds through suit in an appropriate forum. And if [the states] instead decline to keep the programs operating, then any ensuing irreparable harm would be of their own making." Shura Council to discuss proposals restricting childrens access to certain websites for up to 12 hours daily Shura Council to discuss proposals restricting childrens access to certain websites for up to 12 hours daily TDT | Manama Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com New child reform measures being considered by the Shura Council would allow courts to block youngsters from certain websites for up to 12 hours a day and hand the Child Protection Centre stronger powers to track and support those under judicial supervision. The proposals form part of a draft law to amend Bahrains Reform Justice for Children and Protection from Maltreatment Law. The Council is expected to take up the matter on Sunday. If passed, the changes would place the Child Protection Centre at the heart of decisions on judicial probation, giving it the role of coordinating with the Reform Justice Court. This would be done either independently or, in some cases, alongside the relevant department in the Interior Ministry. The aim is to keep closer tabs on children in the system and provide regular support for their families, with added focus on emotional and social well-being. Measures One of the measures would give judges the power to ban access to specified websites or social media platforms for between two and twelve hours per day. This is intended to reduce the pull of online spaces that may lead to poor choices. The restrictions would depend on the nature of the offence and the childs individual case. Safeguards are included to ensure such blocks do not interfere with learning, work, or religious practice. The current law limits coordination to the court or child justice committee alone. New version Under the new version, the Centre would also work with the Interior Ministrys designated branch, allowing for greater follow-up and cross-checking of each childs case. The Centre would be responsible for keeping track of progress before, during, and after probation, as well as supervising training or rehabilitation schemes. The Interior Ministry would play a supporting role in putting measures into effect. Together, the two bodies would form a practical working arrangement, designed to ensure that rulings concerning children are not left to drift. The Women and Child Affairs Committee has backed the draft law. Principle It said the 2021 legislation was a move towards child-focused justice and praised the current proposals for keeping that principle intact. Over 500 Tech Leaders to Represent Canada in June in Paris TORONTO AND MONTREAL, April 3, 2025 /CNW/ - Scale AI, Canada's global innovation cluster specializing in artificial intelligence (AI), is thrilled to announce the list of Canadian organizations and companies selected to be part of Canada's delegation to VivaTech 2025. This marks the largest international delegation at this event. More than 500 delegates from over 170 Canadian technology and AI organizations will showcase homegrown innovation from June 11-14 in Paris. They will join more than 165,000 participants from 160 countries at the largest startup and tech event in Europe, where Canada will be celebrated as Country of the Year. In a context where Canada is committed to enhancing its strategic and economic partnerships on a global scale, this mission represents a significant opportunity to reinforce the country's leadership alongside its European partners while demonstrating the vitality of its innovation ecosystem. With several hundred Canadian delegates, including more than 100 AI and tech companies ready to export to Europe, this initiative underscores Canada's dedication alongside Scale AI's efforts to support local businesses in their international pursuits. By fostering exchanges with strategic partners, this mission aims to drive growth for Canada's AI builders and enhance their impact on the national economy. Canada takes centre stage at VivaTech 2025 Following France's recognition as Country of Honour at ALL IN 2024, the largest AI event in Canada, France will now take centre stage during VivaTech 2025. As Country of the Year, Canada will have a prominent presence with a pavilion located in VivaTech's main hall. Within the Canada Pavilion, promising companies and key ecosystem players will present tangible and beneficial solutions across various sectors. Additionally, Canadian leaders are set to share their expertise on a dedicated stage. A united Canadian delegation: Top-100 tech companies nationwide alongside over 70 committed partners The Canadian delegation stands out for its scale and collective ambition. Following a call for applications that generated significant interest with 243 submissions, 100 Canadian companies with strong international potential have been selected to represent the country at VivaTech 2025. Among them are established companies as well as promising startups and scale-ups such as Airudi, Brainbox AI, CGI, Cohere, IVADO Labs, National Bank of Canada, Mappedin, Sanctuary AI, Trusting Pixels, and Vooban. The selected companies span a diverse range of sectors including: Artificial Intelligence Clean Technologies Digital Health and Biotechnologies Fintech and Cybersecurity Supply Chains In addition to the selected companies, this mission benefits from the support of over 70 partner organizations dedicated to strengthening economic and strategic ties between Europe and Canada. Key partners in this mission led by Scale AI include Alberta Innovates, Global Affairs Canada, IVADO Labs, Mila - Quebec AI institute, Quebec Tech along with several other key players in Canada's technology sector. Positioning Canada as a key player in innovation Amidst global geopolitical tensions and rapid economic transformations, VivaTech 2025 offers a unique opportunity to reaffirm Canada's commitment to collaborating with European partners in building a more resilient and inclusive technological future. This record-breaking presence at the 2025 edition will enable Canada to confirm its place among world leaders in innovation while paving the way for new strategic collaborations. The complete list of the Canadian delegation at VivaTech 2025 is available here. About Scale AI As Canada's AI Global Innovation Cluster, Scale AI acts as an investment and innovation hub that accelerates the rapid adoption and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and contributes to developing a world-class Canadian AI ecosystem. Based in Montreal and funded by the federal government and the Quebec government, Scale AI works with more than 500 industry partners, research institutes, and other players in the field of AI. The organization develops programs to support investments in companies that implement real-world applications of AI and encourage the emergence of future Canadian flagships in the sector, all while facilitating the development of a highly skilled workforce. SCALE AI is also behind the ALL IN event, the largest AI event in Canada. More information is available at www.scaleai.ca. About VivaTech VivaTech accelerates innovation by connecting startups, tech leaders, major companies, and investors responding to our world's biggest challenges. Each year, over four exciting days in Paris, VivaTech creates Europe's biggest startup and tech event, exploring the most disruptive topics in tech with world-premiere demos, launches, and conferences in a collaborative ecosystem. This is where business meets innovation. The ninth of VivaTech will take place June 11-14, 2025. For more information, please visit https://vivatechnology.com/media. SOURCE Scale AI For media inquiries: Eric Aach, [email protected], 514-569-3594; For inquiries regarding the Canadian delegation: Isabelle Turcotte, Head of Delegation at VivaTech and Vice President of Ecosystem Relations at Scale AI, [email protected] TORONTO, April 3, 2025 /CNW/ - Few workplace questions make Canadians more uncomfortable than the topic of what happens to employees in the second half of their careers and beyond. Fortunately, there are employers that have considered this subject extensively, helping employees plan for life after work and ensuring they keep their work skills current for as long as possible. That's the message from this year's Top Employers for Canadians Over 40, announced today by Mediacorp Canada Inc., organizers of the annual Canada's Top 100 Employers project. "One of the great unresolved questions of our society is who takes care of employees after their working careers have come to an end," asks Anthony Meehan, publisher at Mediacorp. "It isn't hard to make the moral case that, after employees have given their working lives to an employer, there should be a corresponding duty on the employer's part to assist the same employees when they're no longer able to work. Helping employees save for life after work, through a formal pension plan or matching RSP contributions, takes effort and planning but the employers selected for this year's Top Employers for Canadians Over 40 list are showing the way." Employers chosen as this year's Top Employers for Canadians Over 40 also encourage employees in the second half of their careers to update continually the skills they bring to the workplace. Upskilling is one of the best ways employees can remain excited about and in control of their careers. But often, it's the employer who needs to give a nudge and ensure that all staff, regardless of age, continually improve their workplace skills, stay on top of industry trends and look for better ways to work. "Employees who feel uncertain where they fit in the organization's future, or who are worried about being left behind technologically, don't perform at their full potential," adds Kristina Leung, managing editor of the Canada's Top 100 Employers project. "By ensuring that all employees stay current on new technology and workplace tools not only ensures a high-performing organization, but creates a workforce that's engaged, trained, and confident about the company's future. Younger employees notice how their older colleagues in the organization are treated, so it's in everyone's interest that upskilling be company-wide." Since 2001, the editors of Canada's Top 100 Employers have published an annual list of the best workplaces Canadians in the second half of their careers. These employers lead the nation in creating special programs and benefits of interest to employees aged 40 years and older. Until 2007, this competition was called the "Top Ten Employers for Experienced Workers" and published annually as an appendix to the Canada's Top 100 Employers paperback. In 2010, the competition was renamed the "Top Employers for Canadians Over 40" to reflect a wider range of initiatives and programs, including whether they: (1) offer interesting programs to assist older workers; (2) actively recruit new workers aged 40 years or older; (3) have HR policies that take into account the unique concerns of older workers, such as recognizing outside work experience in determining vacation entitlement; (4) offer a pension plan with reasonable employer contributions; (5) provide assistance to older employees with retirement and succession planning; (6) create opportunities for retirees to stay socially connected to former co-workers, such as through organized social activities and volunteering; (7) provide health coverage and similar benefits for employees after retirement; and (8) offer programs such as mentorship and phased-in retirement to ease the emotional challenges of retirement and ensure older employees' skills are transferred to the next generation. This competition is a sub-set of the annual Canada's Top 100 Employers competition; winners need to be chosen for the national list before they can be considered for the Over 40 project. Founded in 1992, Mediacorp Canada Inc. is the nation's largest publisher of employment periodicals. Since 1999, the Toronto-based publisher has managed the Canada's Top 100 Employers project, which includes 19 regional and special-interest editorial competitions that reach millions of Canadians annually through a variety of magazine and newspaper partners, including The Globe and Mail. Mediacorp also operates Eluta.ca, one of Canada's largest job search engines, which has been used by millions of job-seekers to find new job postings and discover what the nation's best employers are offering. The full list of the Top Employers for Canadians Over 40 (2025) was announced today by the editors of the Canada's Top 100 Employers project. Detailed 'reasons for selection' for each of this year's winners, as well as stories and photos about their initiatives, were released today by the editors and are accessible via the competition homepage. Join the discussion about today's announcement on social media: Instagram & Facebook: @topemployers Twitter/X: @top_employers Hashtags: #topemployers2025 SOURCE Mediacorp Canada Inc. Further information: Chantel Watkins, Assistant Editor, [email protected] Though Saturday's climb is sold out, people in the GTA and beyond can still register to climb on Sunday at wwf.ca/cntower. WHERE: CN Tower WHO: WHEN: Saturday, April 5 and Sunday, April 6 SATURDAY, APRIL 5 5:30 a.m. Media desk opens at the base of CN Tower Media desk opens at the base of CN Tower 6 a.m. Climbers start up the tower Climbers start up the tower 8 a.m. Megan Leslie climbs the CN Tower climbs the CN Tower 8 a.m. Blake Moynes and team SOSA climb the CN Tower Blake Moynes and team SOSA climb the CN Tower 9:30 a.m. Last climber enters the CN Tower Last climber enters the CN Tower 10:30 a.m. Last of the climbers should have cleared the tower SUNDAY, APRIL 6 5:30 a.m. Media desk opens at the base of CN Tower Media desk opens at the base of CN Tower 6 6:15 a.m. Elite Climbers (competitive) will vie for the fastest time up the CN Tower Elite Climbers will be available for interviews at the top of the tower until 7 a.m. The fastest climber presentation takes place in the MTCC at 7:30 a.m. Elite Climbers (competitive) will vie for the fastest time up the CN Tower 6:15 9:30 a.m. Individual climbers start up the tower Individual climbers start up the tower 9:30 a.m. Last climber enters the tower Last climber enters the tower 10:30 a.m. Last of the climbers have cleared the tower STORYTELLING OPPORTUNITIES: Capture the energy and stories of thousands of climbers, from 13 to 82, as they come together to climb Canada's tallest landmark for nature and wildlife. tallest landmark for nature and wildlife. Gather breathtaking visuals and soundbites from the CN Tower's Main Observation Level. Document the moment climbers victoriously reach the finish line, volunteers cheering them on, and teams celebrating at the top with WWF's panda mascot. Interview interesting and inspirational climbers of all abilities and ages against the city backdrop whether they're racing for the fastest time, recovering from cancer or celebrating a milestone birthday. Have a reporter do the CN Tower Climb for Nature! While cameras are not allowed in the main stairwell, you can film at the start and finish lines. During such a heavy news moment, the WWF CN Tower Climb for Nature provides a refreshingly positive story about people challenging themselves to help conserve nature in Canada . Please note that all media will be required to sign a security waiver available at the media desk in the base of the tower. We will do our best to accommodate interviews throughout the weekend. For a photo-op or interview with a specific climber, please contact WWF-Canada to arrange in advance. About WWF-Canada's Climb for Nature WWF-Canada's most significant fundraising event, the CN Tower Climb for Nature, presented by Aviso, raises more than $1 million annually to protect habitats and species across Canada and around the world. The Climb for Nature has grown to include events at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver on May 10 and an Anywhere Climb for Nature. For more information, visit wwf.ca/climb. About World Wildlife Fund Canada WWF-Canada is committed to equitable and effective conservation actions that restore nature, reverse wildlife loss and fight climate change. We draw on scientific analysis and Indigenous guidance to ensure all our efforts connect to a single goal: a future where wildlife, nature and people thrive. For more information visit wwf.ca. SOURCE World Wildlife Fund Canada For further information: Emily Vandermeer, senior communications specialist, [email protected], 519-616-1556 Weather Alert Take action to protect yourself and others extreme heat can affect everyones health. Determine if you or others around you are at greater risk of heat illness. Check on older adults, those living alone and other at-risk people in-person or on the phone multiple times a day. Watch for the early signs of heat exhaustion in yourself and others. Signs may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue. Stop your activity and drink water. Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Call 9-1-1 or your emergency health provider if you, or someone around you, is showing signs of heat stroke which can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and change in consciousness. While you wait for medical attention, try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, applying cold water or ice packs around the body. Drink water often and before you feel thirsty to replace fluids. Close blinds, or shades and open windows if outside is cooler than inside. Turn on air conditioning, use a fan, or move to a cooler area of your living space. If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park. Follow the advice of your regions public health authority. Plan and schedule outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day. Limit direct exposure to the sun and heat. Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Never leave people, especially children, or pets inside a parked vehicle. Check the vehicle before locking to make sure no one is left behind. Humidex values reaching 40 are expected. A heat event is expected Saturday to Sunday. What: Daytime highs of 31 to 33 degrees Celsius and a humidex of 40. Overnight lows of 21 to 25 degrees Celsius, providing little relief from the heat. When: Saturday to Sunday, coming to an end Sunday night. ### For more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/climate-change-health/extreme-heat/how-protect-yourself.html https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/climate-change-health/extreme-heat/who-is-at-risk.html Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or post reports on X using #ONStorm. An Atlantic City police officer sexually assaulted an intoxicated woman in his patrol car last year, authorities said Thursday. Joshua Munyon, 24, of Egg Harbor Township, was taken into custody Thursday on charges of aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault and official misconduct, the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office said in a statement. The woman told inestigators that Munyon issued her a summons for public intoxication at Tropicana Casino on Sept. 13 before driving her to a parking lot where the assault occurred, prosecutors said. He brought her back to the casino, where she reported the attack to security staff, prompting an investigation by city police and county prosecutors, authorities said. The woman showed police her injuries, which included bruises around the wrists consistent with being handcuffed, prosecutors said. Surveillance footage captured the woman entering and exiting Munyons patrol car, prosecutors said. Location data from the vehicle put the officer at the scene, according to authorities. Witnesses said Munyon denied the woman had ever been in his vehicle, authorities said. Munyon, who was sworn in to the department in 2022, was placed on modified assignment shortly after the incident was reported, Atlantic City police spokesman Kevin Fair said. Munyon is now suspended without pay. He is in custody at the Atlantic County Justice Facility pending a detention hearing. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. Lisa McNair and Kim McNair Brock lost their 14-year-old sister Denise McNair in the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church that also killed 14-year-old Addie Mae Collins, 14-year-old Carole Robertson and 11-year-old Cynthia Morris. Over the years, the McNair sisters have continued to share the story of Denises death and the lessons their family learned in the aftermath of this great tragedy. They recently teamed up with Hipped Interests, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Birmingham, to launch a quarterly event called McNair Sisters Lunch and Learn. The McNair sisters believe intimate dialogue among activists is one way to spread the importance of fighting for civil rights. Lisa says the lunch idea came to her on a whim after a conversation she had with Hipped Interests founder, Kameryn Thigpen. The first lunch was hosted in November. Political ideas such as the 2024 election and the defunding of DEI served as the main topics. The second lunch was held this past Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. with a focus on how to organize and strategize for effective activism. The lunches are hosted in the McNair sisters family home in the Powderly neighborhood. I thought people would like coming here because of the historic nature of the home, Lisa said. How the lunch events got started Thigpen founded Hipped Interests in 2021 as a social justice project on Instagram to raise awareness about how to get involved in civil rights work in Birmingham. Since starting the organization, she has hosted several workshops and collaborations including a Black womens appreciation luncheon and a Juneteenth book drive in collaboration with the Alabama Books to Prisons Project. Kameryn came over one day to borrow books for prisoners and we ended up having a 30-minute conversation. We talked about opening our home up to small, intimate groups, Lisa said. Ive been passionate about social justice since around eight years old, Thigpen said. Its such a freeing experience being able to openly advocate for issues I care about. Hipped Interests doesnt have a target demographic. The organization believes in meeting people where they are and educating them from there. Weve done workshops with both students and young adults. We just try to give people the tools and ethics to start their social justice journey, Thigpen said. Hipped Interests core values are education, equity, liberation, radical self-care and solidarity. Stressing the importance of organizing Lisa McNair speaks during a lunch and learn at her home in Birmingham, Ala. Kalyn Dunkins Upon entering the McNair home, the aura of historical richness looms throughout. On the living room walls are family photos and other memorabilia. Glass bookcases are filled with encyclopedias and other historical texts. PBSs Eyes on the Prize, a documentary about Civil Rights events in Birmingham, is paused on the television set at the front. A family friend, Cherry, sets up three tables: two with seating, glasses, plates and silverware and one with food prepared by Kim herself. The doorbell rings intermittently as the McNair sisters and Cherry finish setting up, guests trickle in little by little. Chatter grows as everyone gets to know one another. Lisa and Kameryn ask their guests to be seated and welcome them to the event before attendees dig into Kims homemade chicken and steak fajitas. Someone hits play on Eyes on the Prize. The success of the Birmingham bus boycott is the focus of the documentary for this lunch. Silence falls on the room as stomachs are filled with food and minds are filled with history. Images and dialogue of Birmingham icons such as Rosa Parks, Fred Shuttlesworth, Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King, grace the screen. After about 45 minutes, Lisa pauses the documentary to begin an open dialogue based on questions that she, Kim and Thigpen collaborated on. Each of the three want to stress the importance of what they feel is missing in civil rights activism today: organization and strategy. Lisa remembers how demonstrators were vetted back then: meetings were held to prepare people for what was and wasnt allowed, what could and couldnt be done, and so on. Part of what we talk about each session, when we show documentaries, is real Civil Rights history and facts. Today, I think people of this generation just march because they were told thats what happened, she said. This generation knows we marched for our freedom, but not the depth of it. Learning about the history and how things were coordinated is important to know. Thigpen also wants to offer clarity around the work of organizers versus the title of activist. I dont believe organizing over social media is sustainable, Thigpen said. Activism is sexy and dressed up, cute for Instagram; organizing is behind the scenes and strategizing. Even the opposition is organizing even Nazis organized. We need to get into that more. People are hungry to do this but dont know how. They are angry but dont know where to put it. Among the lunch attendees is Paulette Roby, chairwoman of the Birmingham Civil Rights Activist Committee Foot Soldiers Headquarters downtown. She chimes in with a full-circle memory of her experience with the city buses. I think back to riding the bus, having to get on at the front to pay but then off again to go to the back for re-entry. Sometimes, the driver would pull off on you and just take your money, Roby said. Who were you going to tell on? Who would you tell? Roby challenged herself to become a bus operator and join a union later in life because she wanted to make more money and have job security. After becoming a driver, she went through her old neighborhood. She says some of the same people she and her mother stood with at the stop were happy to see her, a stark contrast to the many times they had taken the bus with a white man driving. I tell this story to show that God has a way of bringing you back aroundfrom riding in the back of the bus to now driving it, Roby said. The role of spirituality, education and storytelling The McNair sisters and Thigpen hope to bridge the gap between this new generation of activists and the old. Along with organizing and strategizing, they each believe the art of storytelling has been lost, as well as the spiritual essence of the Civil Rights movement and the way it should be translated from elders in the Black community to younger people. Kim doesnt think organized religion is necessary to have a connection to God, nor is it her preferred method. But we do need to be talking about God to these other generations, she said. Everyone needs to have their own relationship, even if its just having a family Bible study every week. Its vitally important. Roby hopes stories keep being told instead of pushed under the rug, and that people continue to do what is right. Its her faith that has carried her for so long. Im 75 now and started around eight or nine years old. We have to continue to do what we have to do and not let anyone change our mind from that, said Roby. I tell myself not to be scared because I know God is on our side. I have enough faith that has driven me to tell young people to do the right thing. When you do right, right is going to follow you. Lisa says the Civil Rights movement was a spiritual movement, and getting in touch with God and spiritual importance is a missing key of strength and community for this generation. It takes a village, she said. Learning how to communicate and educate across generations is how they hope messages wont get lost in translation. The McNair sisters and Thigpen know not everyone speaks the same lingo, and its important for activists to keep that in mind. Thigpen says a lot of what activism work is just spiritual, and that people are pushed by God to just do something. She says when she talks about activism with her relatives, she understands terms used in academia dont always land. She says people can always get to the bottom line if they keep in mind the demographics theyre trying to reach and how to address them. I think being educated helps, especially coming from a family that wasnt very educated, said long-time Hipped Interests participant, Odyssey Crowell. But at the same time, information isnt a relationship. If we spout random facts back and forth but dont have a connection and a relationship, we can never get through to each other. Zamir McNeal, a local Birmingham photographer and Hipped Interests advocate, says sometimes you have to force these important conversations on younger generations, but that later on they will appreciate it. He mentioned working at Phillips Academy and being impressed with kids who were able to spout off names like Fannie Lou Hamer and Mary McLeod Bethune. Once a child is taught something, its kept, he said. There are adults who dont even know what these seven, eight, nine-year-olds do. I turn 18 in July, but Ive already talked to people who knew Fred Shuttlesworth and Rosa Parks. So, I just pass that knowledge down. Continuing the fight with purpose Thigpens civil rights work was inspired by the death of Trayvon Martin and other deaths of Black people at the hands of police brutality. These events were her driving force of inspiration to do more. I encourage people to get involved in something they have an intentional and genuine connection with. Connect yourself with an issue that moves you, she said. Center yourself on well-ness and radical self-carebecause you will burn yourself out if you dont. Balance organizing and finding community with joy. One person cant solve 100 issues, but 100 people can solve one. Lisa hopes having the McNair Sisters Lunch and Learn events will leave attendees inspired and encouraged. She believes now, more than ever, is the time for people to amp their activism up as the Trump administration takes aim at certain rights. People think, Well, we have all these rights nowwhich we do, Lisa said, but the birthright citizenship law being threatened also gave African Americans the right to be here. So, its not just for Hispanics. The vast majority of people dont know that. A lot of people are discouraged and depressed by the news, but we still have to be engaged and have self-care. The lunch concluded with the guests talking, laughing and embracing one another, packing up leftovers and feeling full of hope for whats to come. Roby encourages activists of all ages to never give up, and to continue to converse and strategize in comfortable settings like these. I just aint gone let nobody turn me around, especially now. Im gonna keep moving, she said. Whatever I can do to help, Im available. Any questions, just ask and I will answer or find the answer. To learn more about Hipped Interests and how to attend the McNair Sisters Lunch and Learn events, go to hippedinterests.com or send an email to hippedinterests@gmail.com. To get in touch with Lisa McNair, send an email to lisa@speaklisa.com or visit speaklisa.com. For more information on how to get involved with Paulette Robys work at the Birmingham Civil Rights Activist Committee, visit this section of the Birmingham Civil Rights Districts official webpage. A 16-year-old from Virginia is charged with attempted murder after crashing a stolen car into a police cruiser in South Jersey, then trying to stab the police officers who arrested him, authorities said. The teenager, an Alexandria resident, was driving a stolen car on March 21 when he intentionally struck a Florence police officers car multiple times just after 4:30 p.m., the Burlington County Prosecutors Office said. Officers were responding to a report of an overturned vehicle, a wreck they later determined the teen had caused, prosecutors said. The vehicle was reported stolen out of Florence, an agency spokesperson told NJ Advance Media. Authorities said that after ramming the cruiser, the teens vehicle broke down on Route 130 near Station Road. He ran from the car armed with a knife, lunging at officers who took him into custody, prosecutors said. One officer suffered wounds to his face and a cut to his torso while disarming the teen, prosecutors said. Two other officers were treated for their wounds and released. Authorities did not detail a motive. The teen, whose name was not released because of his age, is being held at Middlesex Countys juvenile detention center. He also faces counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, assault by auto, resisting arrest, criminal mischief, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, theft of a motor vehicle and unlawful possession of a weapon. 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. Shoppers arrived bright and early at Cherry Hill Mall to take advantage of Black Friday Sales. A crowd waited for the doors to open at 6 am. Phil McAuliffe | For NJ Advance Media One of South Jerseys busiest shopping centers is further integrating juvenile chaperone hours its mostly used during the holidays after police have repeatedly been called over disruptive behavior. Administrators for the Cherry Hill Mall in Camden County on Friday announced that children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older beginning Saturday. Mall security will repeat the policy for Saturdays and will be enforced from 4 p.m. until closing, mall staff said. The practice mirrors an approach taken on Dec. 26 in recent years to curtail disorderly teenagers from overwhelming shoppers and security. Mall staff ordered parents and guardians to accompany up to four children under 17, mandating identifications to prove their age. Cherry Hill Mall is committed to maintaining a secure, welcoming, and family-friendly environment for all of our guests, Brian Gardiner, the shopping centers general manager, said in a statement. This policy not only ensures that our guests can enjoy their shopping experience, but also fosters a secure environment for mall employees and visitors. The mall, along the intersection of Haddonfield Road and Route 38, is situated in a dense area outside Philadelphia. A growing number of malls in the country and New Jersey have instituted similar policies as they grapple with higher numbers of loitering teens and young adults. In some instances, those crowds have turned violent, eliciting a police response. Late last month, Cherry Hill police said they were called to the mall to separate two groups that began fighting. Two people involved were treated at a hospital for minor cuts. None of those involved were Cherry Hill residents, police said. In December, a fight between teens caused shoppers to evacuate the mall after a person falsely claimed one of the minors was armed, NBC Philadelphia reported. 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. Bomb squads were summoned to a home in Cumberland County on Thursday night after a resident claimed he had an explosive set to detonate on his porch, according to police. No bomb was found, but police said they recovered multiple firearms from the home. Officers responded to the 1900 block of West Main Street in Millville around 7 p.m. for a report of a possible bomb, Millville Police Chief Ross Hoffman said. A resident, later identified as Charles W. Loughran, 52, of Millville, claimed a bomb on his porch was set to explode, according to Hoffman. Officers found a suspicious briefcase on the porch of the residence and the Atlantic City and New Jersey State Police bomb squads were called in to investigate. Police were shown a video in which they said Loughran told a neighbor, Looks like a suitcase bomb doesnt it? In about 4 hours it is going to go bye. Those details were included in an affidavit of probable cause filed with the charges. The area around the residence was evacuated as a precaution. No explosives were found in the briefcase, Hoffman said. A search warrant was obtained and multiple handguns and a shotgun were located at the residence, the chief said. Loughran was charged with second-degree false public alarm, along with multiple second-degree charges of unlawful possession of weapons. He was placed in Cumberland County Jail pending court hearings. Court records didnt list an attorney for Loughran as of Friday morning. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Its been almost a month since a womans remains were found in a wooded area of Cumberland County, but investigators arent saying much about the recently disclosed discovery. Human skeletal remains of what investigators believe is an adult female were found near Lebanon Road in Deerfield on March 6, New Jersey State Police confirmed this week. No previous announcement was made about the matter and police have released no additional details about the case. The news has left some families of missing people in New Jersey wondering if the remains are a loved one. April Dryer called police Thursday to ask if the remains could be her cousin, Christina Joyce, who disappeared in 2010. Shes waiting for a returned phone call, but received some basic information from police. They said that its going to take a long time to figure out anything because the remains were only bones, Dryer said. Christina Joyce was 39 years old when she was last seen in 2010 in Mount Holly. Her family wonders if the remains found recently in Cumberland County could be Joyce. (Provided Photo/April Dryer) Joyce was 39 years old when she vanished from her hometown of Mount Holly in Burlington County. She had friends in Cumberland County, where the remains were located, Dryer said. Anytime she hears of a body being discovered in the state, Dryer pays close attention for an identification. Shes been missing since 2010, so anything in New Jersey, I try to figure out if its her or not, she said. Joyces mother, who is still alive, provided a DNA sample to aid in the search for her daughter in 2010, Dryer said. Police have not said if any clothing was recovered with the remains found in Deerfield or other possessions that might lead to an identity. They also have not said how long the remains had been in the woods or how the person may have died. Joyce was a mother of two and expecting her third child when she vanished, Dryer said. Shes described as white, 5 feet 2 inches tall, 115 pounds, with brown eyes, brown hair and a fair complexion. Joyce has a tattoo on her upper right arm that says John and another on her lower back that says Jamel, according to a flier about her disappearance. She was last seen in August 2010 at the Quick Mart on Mill Street in Mount Holly. Her cousin was struggling with addiction issues at the time of her disappearance, according to Dryer She was in and out of jail a lot, Dryer said. She was definitely struggling with drugs. For now, the family is waiting for a resolution to their 15-year mystery. We are just looking for closure at this point, Dryer said. If she was still alive, she would have came up in the system and at least had her baby. Shes not the type to just go away and not come home. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. A large Monmouth County school districts controversial plan to close two schools and convert a middle school into an elementary school is getting a fresh look. Middletown Mayor Tony Perry outlined a proposal Thursday that he said would save the schools, which are on the chopping block because of budget woes and declining enrollment. Perry said that under the plan, the township would purchase from the school district a vacant, 10-acre tract assessed at approximately $2 million and reduce police coverage costs in the schools by $600,000. He asked the school board to consider the proposal when it meets Tuesday. Middletown is standing up for its families, for its neighborhoods and for its future. We all know how important it is for our neighborhood schools to continue to thrive, said Perry, one day after the township committee and school board held a joint meeting. This is a solution that puts our students first, with no in-classroom teaching positions eliminated and reductions made only to administrative and duplicate roles, Perry said. The K-12 district is considering closing two schools and restructuring a third, with the school superintendent citing financial challenges. The proposal is a key element in the $197 million proposed budget for the 2025-26 academic year, which was introduced by the school board last month. That plan includes closing Navesink Elementary School and Leonardo Elementary School, which enroll students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Students from both schools would be sent to Bayshore Middle School, one of the districts three middle schools, which would cease to enroll students in grades six through eight. The displaced middle school students would attend either Thorne Middle School or Thompson Middle School, according to the plan. Middletowns school board president, Frank Capone, said in a statement provided by the township that he believes the schools will remain open. I want to thank Mayor Perry for the extensive discussions over the last few days that have resulted in what I believe the board will approve as a solution for this years budget to ensure these schools will remain open, Capone said. I look forward to community participation in the strategic planning process to ensure a sustainable future for the Middletown School District. A final vote on adopting the budget is currently scheduled for April 30. Middletown currently has 12 elementary schools, three middle schools and two high schools. The school district enrolls 8,500 students, down from approximately 10,000 in 2009. In proposing the restructuring, the district blamed declining enrollment and reductions in state aid over the years. We have lost state aid significantly over the course of the last 10 years and when you look at where we started in 2009 to the present day, its a differential of about $7 million. But, compounded its over $60 million and thats a reality, Middletown Schools Superintendent Jessica Alfone said at the March 18 school board meeting. However, under Gov. Phil Murphys proposed budget, Middletown would receive about $14.8 million in state funding for the upcoming school year. That is a 6% increase compared to the previous year. Middletown is the latest New Jersey school district to wrestle with closing one or more school buildings. The Jackson school district in Ocean County is closing the Christa McAuliffe Middle School when the current academic year ends in June. That comes one year after the K-12 district closed the Sylvia Rosenauer Elementary School last June. Officials in Jackson cited the impact of $22.4 million in state aid reductions over seven years as a contributor to the closures. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism you rely on and trust. Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com. Since 2016, Newarks police force has been under the scrutiny of an independent monitor appointed by a federal judge to oversee progress on police reforms intended to curb what an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice found to be widespread civil rights abuses by officers. Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance M A federal civil rights suit says a pair of Black teenagers were verbally harassed last July by two Newark Police officers who then slammed them against a wall and punched one in the face, leaving him with a concussion and an eye injury. The suit was filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Newark, asserting the officers violated the teens rights under the Fourth, Fifth and 14th Amendments of the U.S. Constitution and provision of the New Jersey Constitution and state law. It was filed by Newark resident Eleanor Parker on behalf of her son, who was 15 at the time and remains a minor, identified in the complaint only by the initials S.H. The officers were not identified. The suit names the City of Newark and the Newark Police Department as defendants, asserting that, as the officers employer and supervisory agency, the city and the force are responsible for their training, supervision and conduct. The defendants include a total of 10 unidentified officers, including the two accused of the assault. The citys police force is officially known as the Newark Police Division, a branch of the city Department of Public Safety. Spokespeople for the city and the public safety department did not respond to the allegations in the complaint. The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages for S.H.s injuries and his pain and suffering, emotional distress, and psychological injury stemming from the incident, as well as associated attorneys fees and other costs. The complaint charges that the victim and his cousin, who was 16 at the time, were walking to a bus stop on Bloomfield Avenue near the intersection of Mt. Prospect Avenue on July 18 when they were confronted by two Newark police officers who verbally harassed them for no reason. In response, the boys, both Newark Public Schools students, politely asked officers to leave them alone as they were not doing anything wrong, the suit states. The officers refused to stop verbally harassing them and refused to tell them why they were being detained, it adds. Then, suddenly, one of the officers forcefully and aggressively grabbed ahold of the boys from the back and slammed their bodies face-first against the wall. The officer holding S.H. then turned him around and punched him in the face and the right eye with great force. It is only then that the officers told the boys that they could leave. The suit says S.H. called his mother immediately and the two went to RWJ Barnabas Hospital in Newark. At the hospital, they told S.H.s mother that he had a subconjunctival hemorrhage in his right eye, as well as a concussion, the suit states. The suit does not specify the race of the two officers, other than that, neither of whom were African-American. The lawyer who filed the suit, Cindy Salvo, told NJ Advance Media that the teens were not certain of the officers race or ethnicity. They werent sure if they were white or possibly Hispanic, Salvo said. Obviously, they were not Black. Since 2016, Newarks force has been under the scrutiny of an independent monitor appointed by a federal judge to oversee progress on police reforms intended to curb what an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice found to be widespread civil rights abuses by officers. In his most recent update on the departments implementation of those reforms under Newarks federal consent decree, monitor Peter Harvey said last July one week before the assault alleged in the suit that officers were 96.7% in compliance with reforms aimed at minimizing their use of force, a compliance rate sufficient to end regular auditing of use-of-force incidents. Zayid Muhammad, a member of the New Jersey Communities for Accountable Policing, or NJ-CAP, an ACLU affiliate that has followed the consent decree process, said the incident described in Wednesdays suit demonstrated the need for continued police reforms. For example, NJ-CAP supports include the passage of stalled legislation granting subpoena power to local civilian police review boards like one already created in Newark that so far lack the power to compel officers to testify before them or force departments to turn over records. I am deeply disturbed by what happened to these two young men, Muhammad said. This case illustrates why strong civilian oversight matters, he added. And by strong, we mean having the capacity to effect meaningful discipline to officers who abuse their authority, and who often do so because they feel that they are above any real accountability. Nobody knows Jersey better than NJ.com Sign up to get breaking news alerts straight to your inbox. Steve Strunsky may be reached at sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com Authorities have identified the resident who died in a Newark residential fire on Thursday morning as a 44-year-old man. Khalil Hardaway was pronounced dead at the scene, after firefighters attempted to save him, the Essex County Prosecutors Office said. Hardaway lived in the first-floor apartment of a multi-family home on the 200 block of South 11th Street where the fire started. A pit bull also died in the fire. The Red Cross assisted nine people from two other families with temporary lodging, food, clothing and other immediate needs. Our hearts are with those affected, Red Cross New Jersey said. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. An otherworldly pizza-pasta creation has landed in New Jersey. And it was inspired by a pizza chain. Bagels by Jarrett, the West Orange bagel boutique acclaimed for its bagels, sandwiches and chili, has been dabbling in pizza for years. But the shop got into the pizza business full-time in February when it opened The Slice Shop by BXJ directly next door. Along with classic pies like pepperoni, buffalo chicken and margherita, the pizzeria has unorthodox toppings like corned beef and cabbage, chicken Francese and drunken meatball. But the standout is a stuffed pie a pizza that might look familiar if youve ever spent time at Sbarro, the chain pizzeria found in mall food courts across America. READ MORE: New Jerseys 101 greatest pizzas, ranked This stuffed pizza features a traditional crust plus a thinner layer of crust over top. Stuffed in between is house-made mozzarella, vodka sauce, grilled chicken and rigatoni. An additional light layer of cheese tops the upper crust, providing an impressive pizza visual. Most New Jersey pizza makers wouldnt dare welcome comparisons to a lowly pizza chain. But owner Jarrett Seltzer isnt most pizza makers. I pay homage to a lot of the food that I like. When we were opening the slice shop I thought, Yo, we need to do a stuffed slice like Sbarro used to have, Seltzer told NJ Advance Media. The funniest part is my mom would never let me get the stuffed slice from Sbarro. And to this day, Ive never had it. The bagel shop owner and former rocker (he played bass in Rockaway-based rock band Houston Calls) is fulfilling his childhood fantasy with the delicious pizza-pasta combination. Stuffed pie from The Slice Shop by BXJ in West Orange. (Christoher Burch | NJ Advance Media) Christopher Burch At first glance, the pie is a bit intimidating. I thought it would be impossible to finish more than one slice without needing a nap. After all, it has nearly double the dough of a classic pie, plus the pasta, vodka sauce and cheese. Surprisingly and fortunately, the pie didnt deliver an immediate knockout punch. The vodka sauce, which I thought might be overbearing, was rich but not overly creamy. It played well off of the fresh mozzarella and grilled chicken. There was a lot of crust involved, but not enough to make it feel dense or overly bready. And while the stuffing was hearty, the pie was not as jam-packed as a calzone or stromboli. When we were testing some stuff before we opened we made (a stuffed pie), Seltzer said. It was oddly not too much. You might scoff at the idea of a New Jersey pizzeria emulating Sbarro. But before you do, try a slice of this thing. Because this is proof New Jersey pizzerias can make even chain pizza taste great. Im always creating. Now that we have the slice shop fully open Im doing even more. My brain is just always moving, Seltzer said. We will definitely do some more stuffed slices soon. More food coverage: Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Christopher Burch can be reached at cburch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter: @SwishBurch. Find NJ.comon Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/. Police in East Windsor are looking for three men who entered a home on Wednesday morning. East Windsor police Police in two Central Jersey towns are investigating attempted burglaries in which three men wearing black entered or tried to enter homes. In East Windsor, a masked trio arrived outside a house on Copland Court in a vehicle and parked along the curb at about 3:15 a.m. One of the men used a crowbar to open the front door after unsuccessfully trying to get in through two front windows. Once inside, they found a car key, but fled before stealing the vehicle, police said in a statement. The homeowners were inside, but didnt engage the would-be thieves, Detective Sgt. Joseph Carabelli told NJ Advance Media. Police are unsure why the thieves ran, Carabelli said. The trio is still being sought. Police in South River arrested a man who broke into a car and are looking for three men who tried to enter two houses in the Middlesex County borough. Three men being sought for two attempted break-ins in South River last week. South River police Three men wearing all black clothing are suspected in both attempts. One took place at about 3:50 a.m. on March 26, the other a short time later. Police looked for the men or their vehicle after being called, but didnt find them. Officials declined to provide the street where the burglary attempts took place, citing the residents privacy. South River police nabbed a 20-year-old Elizabeth man who broke into a car in town on Sunday afternoon. He was charged with burglary to a motor vehicle and criminal mischief. South River police couldnt immediately be reached Friday. Anyone with information about the East Windsor burglary is asked to call Carabelli at 609-448-5678 ext. 233. or email carabelli@ewpd.com. South River tipsters can call dispatch at 732-238-1000 or Lt. Edwin Yorek at 732-238-1000 ext 111. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. A beachfront apartment project in Monmouth County will be getting a permit to move ahead after a ruling from the N.J. Appellate Court on Thursday. In the decision, the three-judge panel rejected arguments by Blackridge Realty, Inc. that the state Department of Environmental Protection acted arbitrarily and capriciously in approving the permit for 290 Ocean LLC which plans an eight-story, 109-unit apartment building on Ocean Avenue in Long Branch. The property is situated within the coastal zone regulated by the Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA). It is also part of a designated redevelopment zone in Long Branch, according to information contained in the appeal. The DEP denied 290 Oceans permit application in 2021 after finding the project did not comply with CAFRAs Scenic Resources and Design rules regarding view corridors and setbacks from the boardwalk. However, the DEP later reached a settlement with 290 Ocean stipulating that the property is governed by Long Branchs redevelopment ordinances, which do not require the same view corridors and setbacks as the DEPs rules. Blackridge, which owns an adjacent apartment building, objected to the settlement and appealed the DEPs approval of the permit. The court said there was sufficient credible evidence to support the permit approval. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Stephanie Loder may be reached at SLoder@njadvancemedia.com. A 36-year-old New Jersey man sexually assaulted a woman on an American Airlines flight to Texas earlier this year, federal authorities said. Bhaveshkumar Dahyabhai Shukla, of the Lake Hiawatha section of Parsippany was charged with abusive sexual contact, the U.S. Attorneys Office for Montana said Thursday. Shukla was seated next to the woman on a flight from Billings, Montana to Dallas on Jan. 26 when the assault took place, prosecutors said. She told him to stop and he did, but Shukla resumed touching the woman when she returned to her seat after going to the bathroom, court papers state." Hey there New Jersey! Heres your audio update highlighting the latest plans for a merger of two New Jersey universities, more details on the proposed fun tax and a dispute over Jersey Shore beach bar concerts. Plus, well tell you about the new Bruce Springsteen seven-album box set. Listen by clicking the play button above. This audio presentation is an editorially-curated selection of stories, selected by an editor, and then summarized and read aloud by artificial intelligence. Some variations in pronunciation, tone or diction may result. We want to know what you think! All feedback is valuable. After youve listened, take our 3-question survey here to let us know what you think. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. An Ocean County grand jury indicted two men on murder charges this week in connection with a cold case from 2010, according to authorities. Maurice Cole, 36, and Jerron Evans, 41, were indicted on Wednesday, nearly 15 years after the killing of Rondell Proctor, the Ocean County Prosecutors Office said in a news release. Proctor, a 22-year-old Lakewood resident who had moved to Arkansas, was gunned down at an apartment complex in Toms River in the early morning hours of May 27, 2010. Proctor had been running from his assailants when he was shot once in the head and several times in the torso, The Star-Ledger reported at the time. He died in a nearby hospital. The case went cold for several years before Cole and Evans were eventually arrested on Dec. 3, 2024, the prosecutors office said. They were charged with murder two days later. The pair were taken into custody without incident and brought to the Ocean County Jail, where they were still being held as of Thursday. The prosecutors office has remained vague about what led investigators to Cole and Evans, citing only continuing investigation and testing of evidential items unavailable at the time of the original investigation. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. AJ McDougall may be reached at amcdougall@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on X at @oldmcdougall. A former Pompton Lakes police officer is suing the borough and its police department, claiming he was forced out of his job for refusing to comply with an illegal ticket quota system and for blowing the whistle on department misconduct. William Pepe, the departments only Black officer at the time, claims in court papers that Chief Derek Clark threatened disciplinary action if he didnt meet a minimum number of motor vehicle summonses a practice banned by state law. Clark and borough officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the lawsuit. The complaint was filed March 26 in Superior Court of Passaic County. According to the suit, Clark told Pepe that the other side referring to borough officials expected more ticket revenue and that failure to increase numbers could jeopardize officers healthcare during contract talks. The chief even offered incentives, such as growing a beard, to officers who complied with the unofficial quota system. In New Jersey, police departments are prohibited by state law from establishing quotas for arrests or citations. However, departments may collect and analyze such data to ensure officers comply with legal obligations and for reporting purposes. Pepe, a U.S. Army veteran and decorated officer who had served on the countys narcotics task force, claims he was punished for raising concerns about the quotas and other internal issues. After speaking out at a union meeting, he was reassigned from the detective bureau to patrol, placed under increased scrutiny, and targeted in a string of internal affairs investigations, according to the suit. The suit further alleges that other white officers were not disciplined for similar conduct and were not pressured under the same performance standards. Pepe contends the treatment he received was rooted in both racial bias and retaliation for his union advocacy and efforts to expose internal wrongdoing. New Jersey law explicitly prohibits law enforcement agencies from using ticket or arrest numbers to evaluate officer performance. The lawsuit states that Clark and his top aide routinely pressured officers to meet expectations under the threat of reduced benefits. Pepe said he ultimately resigned after being suspended and placed under investigation for his response to a call. The lawsuit details a hostile work environment that included mental health privacy violations, denial of medical accommodations after brain surgery, and retaliation against both him and his wife for raising concerns to borough officials. Pepe is seeking damages for lost wages, emotional distress and violations of his civil rights. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Passaic Commissioner Sandi Lazzara speaks from a podium near the statue of a fallen soldier titled The Fallen Soldier Battlefield Cross on Saturday, April 3, 2025. Courtesy of Lindsay Reed A statue of a fallen soldier, titled The Fallen Soldier Battlefield Cross, was unveiled on Saturday at Passaic Countys Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Wayne Township during the first observance of National Vietnam War Veterans Day. The memorial honors the 85 local veterans who died during the Vietnam War and serves as a tribute to all veterans who served. The Fallen Soldier Battlefield Cross is a powerful symbol of sacrifice and valor, said County Commissioner Pat Lepore. This memorial not only pays tribute to those who gave everything for our country but also serves as a lasting place of reflection for generations to come. The statue, created by the Randolph Rose Collection, was donated by Catholic Charities, the Diocese of Paterson, and the New Jersey SOS Veterans Stakeholders Group. It sits near Passaic Countys Memorial Wall, modeled after the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, which bares the names of 58,318 U.S. military killed or missing during the Vietnam War, including Passaic Countys residents. Saturdays 11 a.m. event at Memorial Wall on Oldham Road included ceremonial displays such as helmets, dog tags, combat boots, and an inverted rifle with a bayonet that honors fallen soldiers. Lindsay Reed, Passaic County Public Information Officer, said the dog tags represent the fallen soldier; the rifle serves as a moment for prayer; and the combat boots symbolize the soldiers final march in their last battle. We are incredibly pleased to see the Fallen Soldier Battlefield Cross now standing at the Passaic County Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall as a lasting tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, said Passaic County Commissioner Sandi Lazzara. This powerful symbol ensures that all who have fallen in battle are honored and remembered. It provides a solemn space for reflection, gratitude, and remembrance for veterans, families, and future generations. Tony Vancheri, a Vietnam veteran, agreed. For those of us who served, he said, this statue is more than a memorial; its a reflection of the brothers and sisters we lost. For more information about the statue, visit www.passaiccountynj.org. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Deion Johnson may be reached at djohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Instagram at @DeionRJohnson or X @DeionRJohhnson President Donald Trumps administration must return $11 billion in pandemic-era public health grants to the states, including $350 million yanked back from New Jersey, a federal judge has ruled. U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy in Rhode Island on Thursday granted the temporary restraining order requested by attorneys general in 23 states and Washington D.C., who sued Trump on Tuesday. We are thrilled with (the) ruling, which puts a halt to the Trump administrations cruel attempt to claw back hundreds of millions of dollars in public health funding from New Jersey, state Attorney General Platkin Matthew Platkin said in a statement Friday morning. New Jersey can continue to provide critical services for those with mental health concerns, people recovering from substance abuse issues, and patients at community health centers. We will continue our offices work to prevent these devastating cuts from ever taking effect. States had been told they must spend down all COVID-related financial assistance by June 2026, according to budget documents. Withdrawing the $11 billion in pandemic-era grant funding is one of the many steps the Trump administration has taken to slash federal spending and dismantle the so-called deep state of civil servants and other government official. The COVID-19 pandemic is over, and HHS will no longer waste billions of taxpayer dollars responding to a non-existent pandemic that Americans moved on from years ago, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said last week. According to the lawsuit from the 23 states, the Trump administration assumed without any legal support that the laws authorizing the grants were only intended for use during the pandemic, when in fact the underlying appropriations laws demonstrate just the opposite." The judge agreed. They make a case, a strong case, for the fact that they will succeed on the merits, so Im going to grant the temporary restraining order, said McElroy, who was appointed by Trump in 2019. The pool of $350 million was earmarked for drug and mental health treatment, disease prevention and surveillance programs, Platkin said. Losing the money would have blown an unexpected hole in the current state budget. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. this week also eliminated 10,000 jobs in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which he oversees. On Thursday, however, he told reporters eliminating some of the research, human resources and communication jobs was a mistake and they would be reinstated. He also said the employees would monitor lead exposure levels among children would be brought back. The restraining order and lawsuit were filed by the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota New Jersey New Mexico, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, Wisconsin and the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., speaks during a "Fighting Oligarchy" tour event at Arizona State University, Thursday, March 20, 2025, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin) AP Its not even close. New Yorkers appear to be on board for Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to unseat Chuck Schumer in the Senate. Theft rings that target retail stores will face tougher criminal penalties under a new law Gov. Phil Murphy signed this week. The bill, A4755, was unanimously passed by both houses of the state Legislature. No business owner or retail worker should have to fear for their safety or endure the financial loss caused by organized retail theft, said Murphy, a Democrat. Over the past few years, we have worked to crack down on organized retail theft, which threatens livelihoods and public safety. If you need a new tumbler, but have enough pastels to last a lifetime, then these new Corkcicle tumblers might be your brand of magic. Corkcicle is spotlighting Tiana, Snow White and Moana in its latest round of 22-ounce Disney Princess Leakproof Cruisers and 30-ounce Disney Princess Go Cup XLs for $40. Corkcicle Disney Princess Tumblers Price: $40 at Corkcicle Buy Now The two sippers are designed to be cupholder-friendly with a comfort-grip handle on the Cruiser and an easy-carry handle on the Go Cup XL, non-slip bottoms and leakproof twist-on lids. Plus, the Leakproof Cruiser comes with a twist-to-lock feature to prevent spills. Theyre engineered with triple-insulated steel construction that the company says keeps drinks cold for up to 20 hours in the Leakproof Cruiser and up to 12 hours in the Go Cup XL. The best parts about these new princess tumblers, though, are the aesthetics. Instead of an overly-cutesy interpretation of Disneys leading ladies with pastels, singing animals and enchanting swirls, theyre a lot more nuanced. Tiana is a vision in shades of green, Snow White has her signature pops of red, and Moana shines in salmon, teal and orange hues. But with gold foil embellishments, geometric motifs, sunbursts, fans and lotus flower flourishes, the tumblers have a distinctive Art Deco touch straight out of The Great Gatsby playbook. Theyre the latest additions to Corkcicles Disney collaborations over the last few years, including a Disney Princess Cold Cup and a Disney Cruiser to celebrate Ariel, Belle and Cinderella. Shop the new Disney Princess additions at Corkcicle 22-Ounce Disney Princess Leakproof Cruiser Disney Princess Leakproof Cruiser - Tiana for $40 Disney Princess Leakproof Cruiser - Snow White for $40 Disney Princess Leakproof Cruiser - Moana for $40 30-Ounce Disney Princess Go Cup XL Disney Princess Go Cup XL - Tiana for $40 Disney Princess Go Cup XL - Snow White for $40 Disney Princess Go Cup XL - Moana for $40 You can find more Disney Collection Corkcicle tumblers here. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Danielle Halibey can be reached at dhalibey@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips. A downed tree in Gloucester Township on the morning of April 4, 2025, after a thunderstorm swept through the area and other parts of New Jersey. Gloucester Township Police Department A powerful thunderstorm ripped through Camden County with hail and straight-line winds early Friday, downing trees and flooding roads, but stopped short of spawning a tornado, according to officials. With high winds and rain battering Gloucester Township around 5:10 a.m., some residents suggested that a tornado must have touched down. But federal radar data indicted that the damage was attributable to strong straight-line winds, the National Weather Service said on social media. The Gloucester Township Police Department said around 8:20 a.m. that there were no reported injuries or power outages in the area. Crews were working to clear roadways and remove trees that fell into power lines around Broadmoor Development, police said. The National Weather Service said it had no plans to survey the storm damage in Gloucester Township, but that it would dispatch teams to neighboring Delaware County, which was also hit by strong thunderstorms. UPDATE: The weather service confirmed that straight-line winds caused the storm damage in the Media area of Delaware County in eastern Pennsylvania. Straight-line winds are responsible for much of the wind damage associated with thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service. They are frequently confused with tornadoes because of the similar damage and wind speeds. In extreme cases, straight-line winds can cause gusts exceeding 100 miles per hour. Thunderstorm warnings had been issued across South Jersey around 5 a.m., impacting parts of Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Salem and Ocean counties. The National Weather Service previously said the storms could bring 60 mph winds and quarter-sized hail, with the possibility of additional rain on Saturday. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. AJ McDougall may be reached at amcdougall@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on X at @oldmcdougall. Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. BATON ROUGE Louisiana Democratic Party Chair Randal Gaines Thursday called voters defeat of all four constitutional amendments backed by Gov. Jeff Landry a defining moment in Louisiana politics and attempted to take credit for the display of bipartisan opposition. What was determinative was, in my opinion, the messaging of the party, Gaines told Gambit following a press conference at the partys headquarters. Because the activist groups don't have those relationships. Gaines went on to claim thats because they're not necessarily within a circle of trust of our Louisiana voters. The party is." It's unclear what Gaines belief is based on. Democrats have had increasing difficulty in even fielding a candidate in local and state level races for the last decade, leaving many Republican state legislators to run unopposed for years. The party also lost the statewide election in 2023 badly, handing control of all levels of government to Republicans and leading many Democrats to call for totally rebuilding the party. Other Democrats were less bullish on the partys role in the defeat of Landrys agenda. Rep. C. Denise Marcelle, a Baton Rouge Democrat, argued during the press conference that defeat was a joint effort, noting that many majority-Republican parishes voted against them as well. The Democratic Party by themselves cant take credit for it, she said. But it was every citizen in Louisiana that stood up to say that these amendments were wrong for Louisiana. Although Gaines insisted Democrats led the charge against the amendments, the movement against them was far more diverse. The amendments lost by wide margins in an overwhelming majority of parishes, including many which have little to no Democratic Party presence. Republicans and independents also voted no in significant numbers. For instance, data analyst Jeff Asher noted that in Beauregard Parish, which broke for Trump last year by 85% and is generally hostile territory for Democrats, voted against Landrys amendment to give the wealthy more tax breaks 51% to 49%. Community organization against the amendments was noticeably strong, with more than a dozen groups in the environmental, housing, civil rights, criminal justice reforms and other spheres all coming together. Graphics urging people to vote down the amendments spread across social media. Criminal justice reform groups like the First 72+, Voice of the Experienced and Families, Vera Institute of Justice and Friends of Louisiana's Incarcerated Children, especially rallied against Amendment 3, which would have let legislators expand the list of crimes for which teenagers could be tried as adults. Gaines did say the party sent text messages to some voters, posted messages on social media and did a week of phone banking against it. He pointed in particular to the local partys efforts in Orleans Parish as a major factor. The parish had about 31% turnout, notably higher than the 21% turnout statewide, and voted 90% or more against all four measures. But Baton Rouge and New Orleans aside, voters in the majority of parishes opposed all the amendments. Nevertheless, while Gaines gave some credit to community and activist groups for helping educate voters, he insisted it was supportive rather than determinative. A year of new leadership The Louisiana Democratic State Central Committee selected Gaines as chair in April 2024 after a wave of new faces and party veterans teamed up and ran for positions on the committee with the goal of electing a new party chair. There was momentum to replace controversial former party head Katie Bernhardt following a disastrous showing for Democrats in the 2023 governors race and other elections. For all the talk of rebuilding the party, progress has been slow moving. Gaines previously told Gambit the party would have a strategic long-term plan by the end of January. Now, he said, hes hoping to have the plan finished by the end of May. He added that the planning committee is meeting about every two weeks and involving voters, donors and other stakeholders in the process. At the press conference, Gaines did introduce the party's new executive director, East Baton Rouge Parish School Board member Dadrius Lanus. A Baton Rouge native, Lanus spent four years as the executive director of the nonprofit 100 Black Men of Baton Rouge. Gaines called him a young and up and coming Democrat with a bright future. With the legislature set to convene in less than two weeks, Lanus will have to hit the ground running if Democrats hope to have any sort of unified front against Landry and Republican lawmakers. Meanwhile, internal fighting has continued. The party has been cash-strapped, as made evident by the top of their podium collapsing under the weight of a few microphones at the beginning of the press conference. Gaines told Gambit that Lanus first priority as executive director will be fundraising. The party previously had no communications director, but Gaines said they recently contracted with Lauren Loisel, who also does communications for the Young Democrats of Louisiana. Following the defeat of the amendments, Landry claimed without evidence that national Democratic donor George Soros and far left liberals poured millions into Louisiana with propaganda and outright lies about Amendment 2, adding We realize how hard positive change can be to implement in a State that is conditioned for failure. Democratic leaders laughed off the idea of funding from national donors deciding the race. You show me a George Soros check ... then we can have a conversation, Lanus said. A man was arrested after leading Troop NOLA officers on a chase from Treme to East Carrollton, ending in a collision. Troopers intercepted him on Burdette Street, where his vehicle clipped one police unit before colliding head-on with another. Officers pulled him from the car and arrested him. No serious injuries were reported, and the suspects identity has not been released. The North Dakota Senate passed a bill on Friday to create a state Department of Government Efficiency task force in the same vein as the federal DOGE. House Bill 1442 passed the Senate with a 41-4 vote and now heads back to the House for a vote of concurrence before it can be sent to the governors desk. The bill, introduced by Rep. Nathan Toman, R-Mandan, would create a task force made up of 10 members. The director of the Office of Management and Budget, the chief operating officer for the Office of the Governor, one elected statewide officer appointed by the governor, one person residing in the state appointed by the governor, three members of the House of Representatives and three members of the Senate. Each member would serve two-year terms. The chairman of legislative management would select one of the legislators serving on the task force to act as its chairman. They would meet at least quarterly, or more frequently at the call of the chairman. According to the bills carrier on the Senate floor, Sen. Chuck Walen, R-New Town, the task forces goal is to identify areas where North Dakota can increase efficiency, implement cost-saving measures, and find unnecessary, duplicative or outdated laws, rules and regulations. Members would submit an annual report of their findings to legislative management and present legislative management with potential changes to consider in future sessions. Just to slash is not why I brought it, Toman said. It is to create an effective, efficient government that is cognizant of the taxpayer dollars and is a good steward of those dollars, and not just spending them because we have some. Toman said he brought amendments to the bill in the Senate that he feels make the bill more streamlined and effective. He anticipates that the House will vote to concur with the Senate amendments and send the bill to the governor. Having worked on it, I thought I had a really good bill, Toman said. You get here and you get questions in committees on both sides, and then you come up with amendments. I think it's in its best form now. I think its going to be effective and it is what I imagined it should be. There has been widespread reporting on growing national frustration with the federal Department of Government Efficiency, but Toman said he had been thinking about a bill of this nature for over two years -- long before Elon Musk and the Trump administration created the federal DOGE. I think it'll set us up for better success throughout the session, Toman said. The intent is not just to come in and cut 15% of a budget, right? It's to say, Okay, where are the efficiencies, where are the duplications? And then we can make that decision. We have to vote on it again here (in the Legislature), once those recommendations are brought up. North Dakota is not the first state to implement a state-level task force or department similar to the federal DOGE. A number of other states have introduced DOGE legislation or seen executive orders creating DOGE-like committees and task forces. Walen said the bill is a companion bill to Senate Bill 2308, which investigates the licensing boards in the state, which has been passed by both chambers and is waiting on a vote of concurrence in the Senate before it can head to the governors desk. The legislation includes an emergency clause, meaning it would take effect immediately, and a sunset clause ending the task force in July 2031. Eastbound traffic on Interstate 10 is seen between College Drive and the I-10/I-12 split during the evening rush hour Monday, August 19, 2024, in Baton Rouge, La. Interstate 12 eastbound will be closed at the I-10/I-12 split overnight on Thursday, Friday and Saturday for the new College Drive flyover project, the Department of Transportation and Development said. The closures will start at 10 p.m. on each of those nights and end at 5 a.m. the next day, DOTD said in a news release. Drivers will be able to detour to I-10 east, to the Essen Lane exit, then north on Essen to the I-12 east on-ramp, the agency said. An Ilfracombe church placed on the Heritage at Risk Register is set to undergo urgent repairs thanks to a grant aimed at securing its future for the local community. St Philip and St James Church, known to locals as Pip & Jims, has been battling worsening conditions following damage caused by Storm Darragh in December. A hole was torn through the church spire, which has since been patched up, but water has continued to pour through the west wall, damaging the interior and forcing the church to restrict access to parts of the building. Falling plaster and stonework have made the west end of the church unsafe to use. Its also where the only tap and socket for making tea are located, causing issues for the many community groups that use the church during the week. A 22,000 grant from the National Churches Trust will now allow vital works to go ahead. It forms part of a wider emergency payout of over half a million pounds awarded to historic churches across the UK. The funding will be used to make the west side of the Grade II* listed building watertight again by repairing stonework, replastering walls, and installing a kitchen servery and accessible entrance. These changes will allow the church to continue hosting local groups and services while preserving an important part of Ilfracombes heritage. Claire Walker, Chief Executive of the National Churches Trust, said: The National Churches Trust is delighted to be able to support St Philip and St James to enable them to carry out urgent repairs to their beautiful building. Not only will this protect this important heritage, but it will help to keep the church building open and serving local people. Whether seeking quiet reflection, access to community services or a place to worship, the National Churches Trust helps hundreds of churches each year and with the support of local people, keeps them thriving today and tomorrow. Nigel Vince, project manager at St Philip and St James, said: The chances of closing the church were very high, but our small, dedicated team of volunteers have enabled this extremely prominent, historically important Grade II* listed building to have serious repairs. As an active and growing church serving the community we have also planned in a servery and disabled access to best cater for the many groups increasingly using the building. It is thanks to the National Churches Trust, along with other grant bodies and the great efforts by our community to fundraise, that we have been able to undertake this major renovation. The church, built in 1856 by Gothic Revival architect John Hayward, is recognised as one of the finest 19th-century churches in North Devon. Its location overlooking Ilfracombe harbour is said to make it a key part of the towns seafront identity, serving generations of sailors, tourists and residents. Inside, visitors are met with stained-glass windows, intricate stone heads, and decorative pillars with motifs of pomegranates and grapevines. The west window showcases the four Gospel writers, while the east window behind the altar shows scenes from the life of Jesus. Despite its heritage, the church has suffered from its exposed position by the sea, taking repeated damage from storms and salt-laden air. The cost of maintaining listed places of worship is becoming increasingly difficult, with changes introduced by the Government this year capping VAT rebates at 25,000 per project. The Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme, which has helped over 13,000 churches since 2001, will also only be available until March 2026 unless extended. Claire Walker added: Changes by the Government to the Listed Places of Worship Grants Scheme have effectively imposed VAT on listed churches that need any major repairs. This will be unaffordable to many of them as the burden of caring for these buildings already falls onto local people and could lead to even more churches falling into disrepair or closing completely. There are already more than 900 churches on the Heritage at Risk Register in England, rising every year. But this is about more than just heritage churches host and run support for local people; mental health groups, food banks, warm spaces and parent and toddler groups, which would be impossible for local authorities to fund and run if the church was forced to close. The VAT scheme must be made permanent and its cap removed in the upcoming spending review to protect our church heritage and to see these buildings kept open and serving local people. The team at the church hope that with the repairs funded and more community support, the church will remain a vital space for generations to come. SASKATOON Greg Cherewyk says there is still time to avert Chinas proposed tariffs on a variety of agricultural goods. The president of Pulse Canada said it is important to note that China selected March 20 as the implementation date for its 100 per cent tariff on Canadian peas, canola oil and canola meal and 25 per cent tariff on pork and seafood. I think they had an understanding that theyd be dealing with a new leader at that point, and I think that represents an opportunity, he said. He is referring to the recent election of Mark Carney as the new leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, replacing outgoing prime minister Justin Trudeau. Cherewyk is hopeful that is the impetus needed to get China back to the bargaining table. Its rare that you get these opportunities to reset a relationship a bit, and thats what were looking at here is an opportunity, he said. We think this is an invitation to negotiate. I truly believe that. Pulse Canada was one of the farm groups that warned the federal government in the fall of 2024 that its 100 per cent tariff on Chinese electric vehicles and 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminum products could result in retaliatory tariffs against Canadas agricultural products. We were worried about this and now its a reality, said Cherewyk. The Canadian Pork Council was contacted for this story but did not respond in time to meet the Western Producers production deadlines. Rick White, president of the Canadian Canola Growers Association, wants Ottawa to get ready to start writing cheques to affected farmers. The impact of the federal governments trade policy decisions is now playing out at the farmgate, making it imperative that government respond with a plan for financial compensation commensurate with the losses incurred, he said in a press release. China is the second biggest market for Canadian canola with exports of seed, oil and meal valued at $4.9 billion in 2024. It is also a massive market for Canadian peas, importing an average of 1.5 million tonnes a year over the past five years, worth $800 million to $1 billion per year in annual sales. China is a massive market for Canadian peas, importing an average of 1.5 million tonnes a year over the past five years, worth $800 million to $1 billion per year in annual sales. | File photo Pulse sector hopes for quick tariff resolution Last year was a bit of an anomaly with sales dropping to 500,000 tonnes due to a massive buildup in supplies in 2023 and new competition from Russia. There was a time when we were the only game in town, and that would have completely safeguarded us from these types of things, said Cherewyk. He has already been on the phone with folks in Ottawa explaining how critical the Chinese market is and beseeching them to find a negotiated solution before the retaliatory tariffs are implemented. Cherewyk said there are vessels enroute to China, others being loaded at port position and letters of credit that have been issued. We need to figure out how were going to manage all of that, he said. If China follows through with the proposed tariffs, it would bring a grinding halt to all Canadian pea trade with that country. Some of those sales would have to be rerouted to a market such as India, which was closed to pea imports for six or seven years until the government dropped its pea duties in December 2023 due to a pulse shortage. That temporary duty exemption was recently extended by three months to May 31, 2025. India rapidly became Canadas top market for peas in 2024. Cherewyk hopes India recognizes the critical role peas play in providing an affordable source of pulse protein for citizens living below the poverty line. He also hopes China realizes Canada is the preferred supplier of the crop due to quality and supply chain advantages. He noted that it would be bad business for China to block the largest supplier to an important sector of its economy. I think we have some things working in our favour, said Cherewyk. Pulse Canada keeping "line of communication" open to Chinese in hopes of removing tariffs https://www.620ckrm.com/2025/04/02/pulse-canada-keeping-line-of-communication-open-to-chinese-in-hopes-of-removing-tariffs/? By Ryan YoungApr 2, 2025 | 9:01 AM CROWN POINT CORE X CROWN is now distributing Tillamook Ice Cream out of a state-of-the-art facility in the new Point 65 business park just off Interstate 65. The cold storage company invested $80 million in the new refrigerated warehouse at 13450 Mississippi Parkway, where 70 workers will soon distribute ice cream, TV dinners and anything found in the frozen section of the supermarket from coast to coast. CORE X CROWN plans to kick off construction on the second phase soon, which will bring the total investment to $200 million and the total number of jobs up to as many as 150, President Thom Smith said. Gov. Mike Braun visited and toured the new cold storage facility in Crown Point Thursday. "The state of Indiana is the logistics hub of the country and therefore the world," Braun said. "In southern Indiana, where I built my business, FedEx told me you can reach more commerce in two days of ground transportation than anywhere else in the country. You have got your own logistical advantage. You're in the center of the country, next to the third largest economy, next to one of the busiest east-west traverses. Cold storage facilities are there because it's simply the best state to have a distribution business." CORE X CROWN has more than 28,000 pallet positions spread over more than 200,000 square feet. It uses state-of-the-art automation that allows it to pack freezers more tightly and load semi-trailer trucks faster, helping carriers hit the road more quickly so they're not losing money. Towering racks of metal shelves reach the ceiling in the warehouse, where the temperature is kept to freezing to prevent spoilage. CORE X CROWN expects to fill the new distribution center in about 12 months. The company signed Oregon-based Tillamook Ice Cream as its first anchor company and is in negotiations with other customers. "We've got a huge pipeline," Smith said. "There's a very robust pipeline of customers interested in this facility and this market area. When you look at Northwest Indiana, this is the heartland. You're right at the heart of the North American supply chain. There's access to great transportation hubs. The market is great. It's continuing to grow. We plan to be here to continue to grow with it." The warehouse will serve customers all over the country, such as by helping Tillamook reach customers on the East Coast. It expects to sign at least four anchor customers as well as smaller customers. It expects to be at least 85% occupied at all times, moving frozen and ready-to-eat products. "Anyone you see in the frozen section when you go to the grocery store is what you're going to see here," Smith said. The 225,000-square-foot building was constructed over a 14-month period during some bad weather, said Michael Cole, senior project manager with Primus Global Services. "Indiana winters are horrible as you well know," Cole said. "When it wasn't snowing, it was raining. It was probably one of the rainiest years in the state's history. It was very challenging." The frozen warehouse will mean more employment opportunities for Crown Point residents, Mayor Pete Land said. He said the facility will be "awesome" not just for Crown Point but all of Northwest Indiana. "These are good, high-paying jobs," Land said. "This is great for the local economy, whether the workers choose to move here and set up permanent residency or already live here. It's great for the local economy to have a company like this and great they're paying great pay. It's definitely a win for us." Work could start on the second phase in 18 to 24 months. "Adding this cold storage facility to Northwest Indiana just continues to enhance the Crossroads of America as a corridor of transportation," Northwest Indiana Forum President and CEO Heather Ennis said. "It's an opportunity for all companies looking to reach consumers within 80% of the U.S. population or a day's drive." Cold storage facilities have been booming in the Region lately, particularly along the I-65 corridor. Arcadia Cold is building a $93 million warehouse just next door in Park 65. "With the proximity to Chicago, this is a great opportunity to take advantage of the I-65 corridor," Northwest Indiana Forum Director of Economic Development Spencer Summers said. "This investment is incredible and a testament to how great the Region is and the opportunities that exist here." China is one of Canadas largest markets for yellow peas; a market that Canadian farmers and exporters have been serving since the mid 1990s, said Terry Youzwa, Chair of Pulse Canada. The Canadian industry values this long-standing and mutually beneficial partnership. We know Chinese customers prefer Canadian peas and want to continue to deal with Canadian suppliers. In 2024, Canada exported roughly 500,000 metric tonnes of yellow peas valued at over $306M. The 5-year average for yellow pea exports is over 1,500,000 metric tonnes valued at more than $740M annually. China has recently emerged as the largest market for Canadian peas in 2017 as India reduced its imports of yellow peas. We believe that the tariffs announced today on Canadian peas, canola, pork and seafood represent an invitation to negotiate, not a retaliation nor the start of the trade war, said Greg Cherewyk, President of Pulse Canada. Pulse Canada calls on the Canadian Government to immediately engage with China to bring about a swift resolution to these matters. Its in the best interest of both nations to recognize the positive contributions of agriculture and food to our economic wellbeing. Pulse Canada is working with government and industry partners in Canada and China to encourage an urgent meeting of officials and ultimately a successful resolution of issues before theres an impact on pulse trade. ### For more information, media may contact: Jeff English Vice President, Marketing & Communications Pulse Canada 204-960-1622 jenglish@pulsecanada.com Jerry Davich Metro columnist Follow Jerry Davich 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. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Only one thing can prevent measles the MMR vaccine, which has been protecting children against measles, mumps and rubella for more than 40 years. Not massive levels of vitamin A. Not cod liver oil. Not repeated doses of political snake oil. Measles was declared eliminated from our country a quarter century ago due to the success of vaccination efforts, responsible parenting and the proven effectiveness of modern medicine. However, anti-vaccination movements and misinformation campaigns have allowed for the reemergence of measles outbreaks in multiple states this year, including Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky. Will Indiana be next? The U.S. already has more confirmed measles cases this year more than 500 than in all of 2024, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One confirmed death, of a school-aged child in Texas, reveals that the kid was unvaccinated. It was the first death related to measles in our country in a decade. Its insane that even one child has died from measles in this day and age, a regional doctor told me. I reached out to health professionals in Northwest Indiana to share their insights and expertise about measles, an airborne, extremely infectious and potentially severe rash illness. Before the measles vaccine was implemented, roughly 50,000 people were hospitalized and 500 people died in our country each year. In my youth, roughly a half million cases per year were reported. Parents took it seriously. Vaccinations were dutiful, not optional. But childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic as the time-proven MMR vaccine got stuck under the shady political umbrella of vaccines. More parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots, causing new outbreaks that shouldnt exist. It is always on our minds as pediatricians, said Dr. Lisa Gold, a pediatrician at Franciscan Physician Network in Crown Point. Since the last three years, we have seen more alternative vaccine schedule use by parents and refusal of vaccines. I think many in the U.S. feel vaccines are more optional than necessary because they haven't seen a child with measles, chickenpox or have meningitis due to HIB bacteria or strep pneumonia. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Indiana was already not meeting the recommended goal of 95% or more children having the measles vaccine. I support the freedom to choose against the MMR vaccine, but it comes with potential consequences mostly for children who have no say in the misinformed decision. Gold, who has never had to treat a child with measles, attended a conference last March and met a pediatrician who practices in the state of Washington. She has seen children with measles. I remember her telling me how miserable those kids felt, she said. Last year, Lake County had a case of measles. I was encouraging (the) parents of my patients to get their (children) vaccinated. The parents who declined prior to the case remained in their viewpoint. Keeping up with routine vaccinations helps prevent the spread and protects those who cant or dont get vaccinated. Ive seen some folks posting about measles not being a serious condition, and thats just simply not true, said Lynn Thoma, a doctor of pharmacy whos a senior consultant with Visante. Measles isnt just a rash and fever. It can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems. It takes only one case to start an outbreak. About one in five unvaccinated people who get measles end up hospitalized, Thoma said. Complications can include pneumonia (the most common cause of measles-related death), encephalitis (brain swelling that can cause permanent damage) and in rare cases a fatal condition called SSPE (subacute sclerosing panencephalitis) that develops years later. Recent misleading comments by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding the ongoing measles outbreaks have only amplified existing misinformation campaigns. The decision to vaccinate is a personal one, Kennedy told Fox News last week. And hes right. However, personal decisions come with broader costs regarding public health. Kennedy also said vitamin A can reduce deaths from measles and cod liver oil is producing very good results. Vitamin A does not prevent measles, yet some parents are giving their children toxic levels of it, leading to liver damage. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles, and one dose is 93% effective, federal data show. Of the children currently suffering from measles in more than a dozen states, 97% are unvaccinated. Unless this illness is on a parents doorstep and they see firsthand how a child looks with measles, they don't understand the need for the vaccine. A 20% chance of complications from measles, such as pneumonia needing a hospital stay, does not motivate people to act. I would not say we are at a point in time that a child 6 to 11 months (of) age needs an early MMR, unless traveling internationally or in an area with high risk, Gold said. But I do think having one MMR vaccine at 1 to 3 years of age is a good investment in protecting a child. I also recommend the booster at age 4 and older. Too many parents continue to insist that the MMR vaccine causes autism. This theory has been disproven by multiple studies done in the U.S. and worldwide, Gold said. Theres a lot of misinformation out there, but decades of research confirm that the vaccine does not cause autism and has minimal risks compared to the serious complications of measles, Thoma said. The MMR vaccine is safe, effective and the best way to protect kids and the community. Will those parents listen to facts, proof and science or risk their children's health? Its their choice but ignorance can be just as contagious as measles. Mayor Eric Adams of New York City said this week that he would not run for re-election in the Democratic primary in June. What did he say he would do instead? Authorities in Montgomery Township, Pennsylvania, have introduced wavy lane patterns on some streets in an effort to slow down traffic in the area. Driving along Gray Lane in Montgomery Township for the first time must be quite the trip, both literally and figuratively. Thats because the regular lane patterns have been replaced by wavy, zig-zag lines that look like they were painted by a drunk. But they are wavy by design. According to Montgomery Township officials, the unusual patterns were deemed as the best solution to discourage speeding on some of the municipalitys streets. Police sources told local media outlets that the traffic-calming measures were installed in response to numerous complaints about certain streets being used as speedways. Our Highway Safety Officers and Traffic Engineers have determined that this is the best course of action for the area to ensure the safety of the local residents, Montgomery Township police wrote in a Facebook post. Yes, it looks like somebody just drawing lines went off the road and did their own thing, but its not what is happening, Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Annette Long said. There actually is a plan for whats going on here. Long claims that this is just the latest solution to the speeding on Grays Lane. In the past, speed bumps were considered, but they were considered incompatible with the steep gradient of the street. Police radar and police cars positioned at the end of the street have also been used, but they couldnt be used at all times, so the wavy pattern was considered the best alternative. Not everyone agrees, though! I am honestly in shock. I thought this was a joke, but after reading the comments it doesnt seem like its a joke, one person commented on social media. Why zig-zaggy lines? People are still going to go straight up the hill and straight down the hill, so I dont get it, someone else wrote. Authorities have installed traffic cones and signs to help drivers get used to the unconventional traffic patterns, but Grays Lane still manages to shock motorists the first time they drive on it. If we might make a humble suggestion to the authorities of Montgomery Township, you would have been better off using deliberately confusing lines like this French town. WPP acquires data collaboration platform InfoSum. The platform will join GroupM, WPPs media investment group, as a key component of a new generation of AI-enhanced marketing solutions for clients. WPP says the acquisition is a major strategic step forward for its AI-driven data offer, giving WPP and its clients immediate access to the industrys largest cross-platform source of privacy-safe, actionable data for marketing intelligence, audience targeting, and AI model training. InfoSums capabilities will be integrated into WPP Open, the companys intelligent marketing operating system, allowing clients to rapidly build, train and deploy custom AI models that utilize diverse datasets. WPP CEO Mark Read said that making InfoSum part of WPP allows clients to stay in complete control of their first-party data, while also giving them access to vastly greater quantities of high-quality, privacy-compliant data and pioneering technology that is not available anywhere else in the market today. ke comms, a mission-driven public relations and writing agency based in Tulsa, OK, creates a pro bono division called The Impact Narrative. The division supports progressive clients that need strategic guidance with public relations. Its first client is United States for Abortion, a reproductive justice design initiative. The Impact Narrative is supporting United States for Abortion with media relations and strategic planning. A majority of Americans support abortion access, according to the Pew Research Center, said ke comms founder and CEO Kristi Eaton. The Impact Narrative will allow United States for Abortion to gain greater visibility and support their design initiatives. Marisa Toro The Public Relations Global Network has appointed Marlow Insight co-founder and partner Marisa Toro as regional vice president for Europe, Middle East and Africa. Toro succeeds Scandinavian Communications managing director Christina Rytter, who has served since November 2023. Rytter, who was also PRGN president from 2017 to 2018, remains an active network member. Toro will now work to enhance PRGNs footprint across the EMEA region, focusing on business development and the recruitment of new members. This strategic move underscores PRGNs commitment to bolstering its leadership and fostering collaboration throughout its global network. Her innovative approach and leadership acumen will bring fresh insights to the EMEA region, enhancing our executive committees efforts to elevate PRGNs global impact, said PRGN President Natacha Clarac. TOL thanks Sen. Ejercito's endorsement; acknowledges vita role of BHWs as healthcare frontliners Cebu City - Senate Majority Leader Francis 'Tol' Tolentino today paid tribute to the country's barangay health workers (BHWs), as he acknowledged their vital role as healthcare frontliners during the COVID-19 pandemic, and for providing a vital link between communities and the public healthcare system. Tolentino was in Cebu City today to attend the celebration of 'BHWs Day' - which gathered thousands of BHWs from different localities all over the province. The event highlighted the Senate's recent passage of Senate Bill No. 2838, the 'Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers,' which aims to grant the sector monthly honoraria, and a package of benefits, including allowances, insurance coverage, and career advancement. Also gracing the event was Senator JV Ejercito, the measure's principal author, who took the opportunity to endorse Tolentino's candidacy. "He is low key, but a brilliant lawyer, a former Mayor of Tagaytay City and Chairman of the MMDA. As our Majority Leader, he was instrumental in the passage of the Magna Carta of BHWs. Your vote will be worth it; let us support Senator Tolentino!" Ejercito told the audience. In response, Tolentino thanked Ejercito, who is also the Upper Chamber's Deputy Majority Leader. Tolentino in his speech said that the contributions of BHWs are often overlooked, but came to light at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. "They were the unsung heroes of the pandemic, serving as frontliners assisting in the delivery of healthcare during disasters health emergencies," he pointed out. The senator enumerated the many tasks of BHWs, as follows: health promotion and education, assistance in pre- and postnatal care, immunization and disease prevention, health surveillance, and data collection. All these, he noted, are key components of the public healthcare system. "It is time to elevate their status, including giving them the opportunity to earn civil service eligibility," he added, noting that the long overdue recognition of the sector is embodied in the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers. Its almost 9 a.m. when Rob Keohane finishes his daily swim at the YMCA in North Buffalo. Afterward, the retired North Tonawanda teacher then heads to work at the Hertel Avenue restaurant hes owned for nine years, Cafe on the Avenue. But Keohanes morning routine will change come Monday. Thats because on Friday, the Delaware Family YMCA is closing its doors for good after almost 100 years of service in its North Buffalo neighborhood. Financial pressures and corporate decisions led to the closing, YMCA officials said, which has left many longtime patrons upset and frustrated. I feel sad, real sad. Weve been coming here forever, growing up through elementary school, through middle school, said Keohane, whose first visit to the Delaware Y was in 1975 as a third grader. There are people that were coming here just as long that are devastated about it. Im like, gobsmacked, said Jan Dolce, who moved about a block and a half away from the center in 1975 with her husband. She and her family have been members ever since. It was always good vibes here, she said. When Charles Campbell received notice of the closure, I emailed them back and told them they were shameful, he said. Thats just the way I felt. The venue, located at 2564 Delaware Ave. near Avery Avenue and the North Buffalo Delta Sonic car wash, opened in 1927 and was the oldest local YMCA branch still in use. The YMCA Buffalo Niagaras board of directors announced last month its decision to shut down the Delaware Avenue branch because of significant financial losses and the high cost of maintenance that is needed but hadnt been performed yet, the agency said in a statement. While the decision to close the Delaware Y is incredibly difficult, it allows us to focus on strengthening our impact in our region, John Ehrbar, YMCA Buffalo Niagaras president and CEO, said in the announcement. We thank the community for their support over the years and look forward to continuing to serve Buffalo in new and meaningful ways. The Buffalo News asked the YMCA how many employees the branch has, how many members it has, how much money the branch has lost recently and the cost of deferred maintenance at the facility. Paul Stockman, the organizations communications director, declined to reply to those questions and did not respond to a phone message. In 2023, according to the YMCAs most recent filing, the organization had an operating loss of nearly $700,000 as revenues of $26.1 million were exceeded by expenses of $26.8 million. The previous year, the nonprofit reported income of $7.1 million. The YMCA Buffalo Niagara saw a significant drop in 2023 in its contributions and grants, which fell from $11.5 million in 2022 to just $3.8 million that year. At the same time, expenses, largely employee salaries and benefits, rose by $5 million from 2022 to 2023. The YMCA Buffalo Niagara had previously considered a plan to close the Delaware and Ken-Ton family branches to make way for a new, larger facility in North Buffalo. Both the Delaware and Ken-Ton buildings are cramped, aging and lacking in the amenities found at the newer Independent Health Family YMCA branch in Amherst or Lockport YMCA branch. YMCA Buffalo Niagara revealed the proposal to build a new facility in North Buffalo in 2019 and, later purchased a 7-acre site on Elmwood Avenue, north of Hertel Avenue, for the project. However, the Covid-19 pandemic, soaring construction costs and fundraising struggles took a toll and prompted the organization to scrap the plan. Instead, as YMCA officials announced in July, the agency decided to change course and build a sprawling outdoor play area and community event space, YMCA Camp Swan, on a portion of the Elmwood Avenue property at a far lower cost. A YMCA spokesperson said the agency still plans to start work on Camp Swan this year. The closing of the Delaware Y leaves one remaining YMCA location in the city: the William-Emslie Family Branch in the citys Pratt-Willert neighborhood on the East Side. Members of the Delaware Y will have access to the five remaining local YMCA branches. The Ken-Ton Family Branch, which is 3 miles away on Belmont Avenue in the Town of Tonawanda, is the closest. Campbell says he will split his exercise routine between two other locations: the William-Emslie branch two days a week to swim and the Ken-Ton branch to play pickleball three days a week. Keohane, who said he will probably start going to the Ken-Ton branch for his daily swim, said he understands the financial challenges of maintaining the location, but he also wondered about the impact the closure will have on the community. Other longtime members might have some difficulty in accessing other YMCA locations, or they may not have the means or the desire to go to a different location, he said. Thats what theyre taking away from here, and thats whats sad about it, because a lot of people dont want to go all the way to Ken-Ton when they live right over here in North Buffalo, he said. This is all we had. Saying goodbye to the Delaware Y was a tough pill to swallow for Dolce and Campbell, as well. War-torn and rare earth minerals-rich Democratic Republic of Congo has awarded a $5M six-month contract to Earhart Turner, which has strong ties to MAGA world. The pact covers strategic communications, public affairs support, policy research and analysis on national security issues, and advocacy before Congress, executive branch and other federal agencies. Earhart Turner president Karen Giorno leads her firms DRC push. She served as Florida chief strategist during Donald Trumps 2026 campaign. Giorno has continued to nurture and maintain strategic relationships with MAGA powerbrokers and the Trump White House, according to her bio on her firms website. Earhart Turner senior partner Milo Yiannopoulos, former editor at Breitbart, also is working the account. Meanwhile, Team Trump has moved quickly to cut a deal for DRC's minerals. Massad Boulous, Trumps senior advisor for Africa, met with DRC president Felix Tshisekedi on April 3. He looks forward to working with the DRC president to build a deeper relationship that benefits the Congolese and American people and stimulates US private sector investment in the mining sector, according to the DRCs governments website. The US also is committed to ending the conflict in the eastern part of the DRC, said Boulous, father-in-law to Tiffany Trump. (L-R) Nicole Frazier, Jackson Hayes DGA Group promotes Nicole Frazier to partner in its DC-based US government relations practice and Jackson Hayes to partner in its New York-based US complex communications advisory. Frazier, who was a special assistant to the President in the first Trump Administration, was recognized as a top lobbyist by The Hill in 2024. Hayes was a director at FTI Consultings strategic communications unit before coming to DGA as an associate partner in 2021. The agencys Albright Stonebridge Unit has also made three more promotions to partner: Shen Lei, who works in its Beijing-based China practice; Karen Poreh, part of the firms DC-based Europe & Eurasia practice; and Anya Prusa in the Americas practice, which is also located in DC. "Nicole, Jackson, Lei, Karen and Anya are all exceptional advisors, leaders, and colleagues. They embody the collaborative and innovative culture that defines our firm, said DGA Group CEO Edward Reilly. Brigitte Trafford Howden, a global insurance group, appoints Brigitte Trafford, who was most recently a senior advisor at Lansons, as group chief corporate affairs officer, a newly created role. Trafford has served as chief corporate affairs and marketing officer at the London Stock Exchange Group, chief corporate affairs officer at Virgin Media and group communications director at Lloyds Banking Group. She will lead Howdens brand and marketing, communications, PR, public affairs, events, research, and social impact teams. How we show up as a global company will be an absolutely critical part of the next phase of our growth journey, said Howden CEO David Howden. Im delighted to welcome Brigitte to the company to help us shape that future. Simeon Lando Thredd, a payments processor, brings on Simeon Lando as CMO. Lando most recently served as CMO at payment technology platform Form3. He has also held senior marketing positions at Finastra, PayPal and Barclaycard. In his new post, Lando will be tasked with executing the companys global go-to-market strategy and driving international growth. His extensive experience in building B2B enterprise brands, combined with his commitment to developing client-focused marketing teams, aligns perfectly with Thredds mission to deliver client-centric payment solutions, said Thredd CEO Jim McCarthy. Not a Subscriber? Join O'Dwyer's & Get RFP Access Stop wasting time tracking down RFPs. O'Dwyer's connects you with organizations looking for PR firms & services. Get new business with O'Dwyer's! Join O'Dwyer's Coca-Cola is a brand ever enshrouded in an aura of goodness and happiness, writes Murray Carpenter in his just-released Sweet and Deadly: How Coca-Cola Spreads Misinformation and Makes Us Sick book published by The MIT Press. He credits public relations campaigns that are so effective that many Americans still have not gotten the memo about the health risks posed by sodas. Carpenter notes that some scientists say sugar-sweetened beverages contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Put another way, one of the greatest threats to public health in the US, and around the world, is the consumption of Coca-Cola and other sugar-sweetened beverages, he writes. Sweet and Deadly covers how Coke has avoided its day of reckoningunlike tobacco and opioid companiesvia a sophisticated shadow network that has masterfully spread disinformation for decades to hide the health risks from its consumers. The book is a must-read for PR people and students of disinformation. Significant changes are on the way for the Old Hospital site in Birr. It is also known as the St Brendan's District Hospital site. Some exterior improvement work has been carried out to the Old Hospital premises itself (which housed Midoc until 2018, at which stage Midoc was moved to Tullamore). These improvement works, which included some roofing work, led some to believe it had been sold by the HSE to new owners. But this is not the case. Cllr Sean Maher told The Midland Tribune that he spoke to Joe Ruane this week about the matter. Joe Ruane is the HSE's Midlands Area Manager and he told the Councillor that the Old (District) Hospital building itself is still in the ownership of the HSE. He said it will probably change ownership in 2027 or 2028, at which stage the County Council will probably take over the building. READ NEXT: Offfaly man (76) set to lose home to bank says he has now been threatened with court proceedings The Old Hospital building is part of a number of buildings on the general site, located at the end of John's Terrace. The other buildings house a Rehabilitation Counselling service; a Dental Clinic; St Anne's and an Alzheimers service. The ambulance service (NAS) for the town and south Offaly area is located on the site and will be moving to the new Primary Care Centre (PCC) when the currently ongoing building work of the PCC is complete. The expected completion date for the Primary Care Centre is the summer of 2026, perhaps later. It had previously been stated that the PCC would open to the general public in 2024 but, as so often with major infrastructural projects, it's taking considerably longer than expected. When Midoc closed in 2018 there was a very strong reaction against the closure and a huge number of people turned out for a public meeting, expressing their objection at the loss of an essential service. The powers that be paid no heed. There's a possibility that when the ambulance service vacates the site, the Order of Malta might move in in their place. It's been pointed out over the last few years that there are a couple of HSE sites in Birr which have a significant amount of empty, unused space; a far from ideal situation. READ NEXT: 'Very rare' and hugely historic rifle used in Offaly during 1916 Rising up for auction About half of the Mental Health facility on Wilmer Road (beside the library) is not being used. The Mental Health facility is in fact a very large area which could be used in a purposeful and good way, but it's going to waste. A couple of years ago former Cllr John Carroll told a meeting that he would question some of the HSE's use of its property. The emptiness of the District Hospital is also problematic, and it will become emptier when its ambulance service moves. During a meeting with the Council a member of the HSE gave an update on the Mental Health care system in Birr. She pointed out that there are 16 staff in the Wilmer Road Mental Health facility. The services provided in the Mental Health facility include a Community Mental Health Clinic / Day Hospital / and Day Service. It's serving a population area of 38,000 people. All of the 16 staff members and the services will move to the new Birr Primary Care Centre when it opens. Joe Ruane told another Council meeting that the Alzheimer's and St Anne's services will be remaining in the St Brendan's District Hospital area and will not move to the new Primary Care Centre when it opens. The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is based in the Old Day Care Centre beside the Old Hospital building. READ NEXT: Luxurious Offaly home with its own office and library could be yours for 600K The Alzheimer Society offers a Day Care at Home service. The Day Care at Home Service provides an interim alternative model of care and support to clients and families. It is is a way of delivering a day care experience to clients in their home, while also allowing their family carer to have a break and is based on providing social activity based care with minimum personal care. This can include music sessions, reminiscence therapy, arts & crafts, gentle exercises, conversation, companionship and recreational activities. Speaking about the future of the National Ambulance Service (NAS) in St Brendan's District Hospital, Joe Ruane pointed out that when the NAS base in Birr is moved to the new PCC in Birr, then it will be moving into a standalone two story building in the same complex as the PCC. According to National Ambulance Service Stats, in the Midlands Area (Laois, Offaly, Westmeath and Longford) the average response time for Echo / Delta calls is 25 minutes. There's been a hospital at the John's Terrace site for several decades. Records show that in 1955 tenders were invited by Offaly County Council for an extension of the premises which would be: An Extension scheme comprising extension of existing hospital, improved nursing accommodation, maternity unit, town clinic. The extension was formally opened in Spring 1959. The contractor was M. Loughnane & Sons, Birr, and the construction cost was 45,000. Part of the Mental Health facility in the old convent site on Wilmer Road has been unused since the late 1970s. The Gaelscoil had hoped to move into the building in 2015 but in January 2024 it moved instead into a modular building constructed on a greenfield site on Tullamore Road. A couple of years ago Cllr John Carroll said the District Hospital and the former Day Care Centre beside John's Terrace is a significant footprint in the town with a significant amount of physical structures. It's in the heart of Birr, some of it is empty, and everyone should think hard about what to do with the empty sections. This point by the former Crinkle Councillor remains relevant today. A motorist was given a suspended prison sentence and disqualified from driving for six years at last week's Tullamore District Court. Valeriu Telescu (32) of Boyne Meadows, Edenderry, was driving without a driving licence, learner permit, or insurance at Dublin Road, Edenderry on September 1, 2024. Solicitor Aisling Maloney said he was travelling to work, his friend had become ill and he took over the driving. She said he had a Moldovan licence. He does apologise, she added. He works full time and has two children back in Moldova and he is the sole breadwinner. Judge Andrew Cody fined Mr Telescu 750 and disqualified him from driving for six years. For driving without insurance he fined him 750 and imposed a sentence of five months which he suspended for three years. He granted legal aid in the case. READ NEXT: Well known Tullamore man celebrates big birthday on night out READ NEXT: Prison sentence for man who stole bottles of champagne from supermarket in Tullamore What is described as a 'very rare' and historic rifle used in Offaly during 1916 Rising is up for auction. The Mauser Gewehr 98 bolt-action rifle was presented to the Offaly Brigade, Irish Volunteers by Sir Roger Casement. It is up for auction by Whyte's with an estimate of 8,000 to 10,000. The online auction continues until Saturday afternoon. Click here to see the auction. The provenance on the rifle says that it is serial number 2405 and that it was resented to James O'Connor, Quartermaster of Offaly Irish Volunteers by Roger Casement on his visit to Tullamore. The rifle is probably from the Asgard shipment and it is described as 'a very rare provenanced rifle used in the 1916 Rising and the War of Independence'. James O'Connor was quartermaster for Offaly Irish Volunteers from 1915-1921. READ NEXT: Well known Tullamore man celebrates big birthday on night out READ NEXT: Prison sentence for man who stole bottles of champagne from supermarket in Tullamore A GARDA had to drive at 210kph on the Dublin-Galway motorway after a speed check recorded a motorist travelling at 184kph, Tullamore District Court was told. When the accused driver, Mohammed Emin Shirin (29), Stillorgan Grove, Stillorgan, Dublin, appeared in court without legal representation, Judge Andrew Cody told him it was a very serious matter and he should get a solicitor. Mr Shirin said he had no solicitor. This is my first time in court so I'm somewhat ignorant to the formal proceedings, he told Judge Cody. The judge said the charges were serious and should be taken seriously and would normally warrant engaging with the legal profession before coming to court. Mr Shirin was summonsed on two counts of alleged dangerous driving on August 11 last year on the M6. The first summons alleges dangerous driving of a 161 Dublin registered vehicle at Moyally, Moate, Co Westmeath and a second alleges he drove dangerously at Kilbeggan South, Co Westmeath. READ NEXT: https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/local-news/1754102/legends-of-irish-music-scene-lined-up-for-offaly-venue-in-may-for-all-star-charity-concert.html Mr Shirin said he would get a solicitor and added: I'm an implant surgeon, I was responding to a medical emergency. Asked by the judge about the nature of the alleged driving, Sergeant Brendan Kearns said a speed check recorded a vehicle at 184kph and then a garda had to travel at 201kph. Sergeant Kearns handed the statement of evidence to the accused man and Judge Cody adjourned the prosecution for two weeks to April 16 next. Charities Institute Ireland (Cii), the representative body for Irelands leading and high-impact fundraising charities, is now accepting applications from people in Offaly for the 2025 Charity Excellence Awards, sponsored by Ecclesiastical Insurance. Shortlisted finalists will be eligible for 13 awards, honouring high achievement in several categories. Winners will be announced at the Awards Gala on the 3rd of October 2025, at The Round Room, Mansion House, Dublin. Ciis 325 member charities employ approximately 35,000 people nationwide. Through leadership, resources, and advocacy, Cii strives to empower charities to maximise their impact and foster greater public trust. Aine Myler, Chief Executive Officer at Cii, believes the Charity Excellence Awards serve as an opportunity to shine a light on efforts of well-organised, accountable, and effective charities to ensure their vital work gets the recognition it deserves. "The Charity Excellence Awards celebrate the extraordinary impact of Irelands charities. Every day, charities and their people work tirelessly to support communities, tackle urgent challenges, and create positive change, says Aine. Behind every great charity is a team of passionate, focused, committed individuals making a real difference. These awards recognise their dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence. READ MORE: Over 230 people Get Boggin for children with cancer in Offaly park Anton Savage, radio and television presenter of The Anton Savage Show, will be hosting this years awards gala. Last year, at the 2024 Charity Excellence Awards the Charity of the Year title went to Ruhama, an NGO that provides support to women affected by prostitution, sex trafficking, and other forms of commercial sexual exploitation, while the Jack and Jills Childrens Foundation won the Charity Board of the Year Award. Deirdre Walsh, CEO of The Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation, notes: The Board of the Year award we received was a great acknowledgement of our commitment to good governance practices and a wonderful boost for our team. We were so delighted to see our dynamic, dedicated and hard-working Board recognised. I cannot overstate the benefits of entering such prestigious awards and Jack and Jill are looking forward to entering again in 2025! Other winners in 2024 included Galway Simon Community, Barretstown, Mater Hospital Foundation, GOAL & AIB and The Hope Foundation & Specsavers, Friends of the Elderly, Tara Clarke, FoodCloud, James Sullivan, Mater Hospital Foundation, Womens Aid, Tanya Ward Childrens Rights Alliance, World Vision Ireland, and Dogs Trust. Kathleen O'Meara, Chair of the Judging Panel, adds that she is excited and inspired to be part of the judging panel again this year. Under her leadership, the evaluation process is handled with exceptional care and transparency. I always look for the charity, individual or leader who is going above and beyond, to have a real and tangible impact. The judges are looking at a lot of entries, says Kathleen. The entry needs to stand out with a strong and compelling story of impact the difference you, your charity or your leader is making, in a real, relevant way to the challenges we are facing today. Kathleen continues, I look forward to seeing all the entries because they give me such a great picture of the inspiring work being carried out by charities big and small across the country, and the phenomenal impact they are having. READ MORE: Offaly man (76) set to lose home to bank says he has now been threatened with court proceedings The Charity Excellence Awards will again be proudly sponsored by Ecclesiastical Insurance. Were proud to support the Charity Excellence Awards once again, a celebration of the dedication, innovation, and impact of Irelands charity sector. As part of the Benefact Group, a specialist financial services group owned by a charity, we understand the challenges these organisations face. In 2025, their role is more vital than ever, meeting growing community needs, embracing digital change, and strengthening public trust. These awards recognise excellence, and the evolving role of charities in building a fairer, more resilient society. Were honoured to support that mission alongside Charities Institute Ireland, said Graham Hohn, Strategic Account Manager, Ecclesiastical Insurance. For information on how to apply, visit https://charitiesinstitute.ie/ OpEd News One-Time Security Check This Is NOT An Error Message Your site IP address* (145.224.119.253) is listed on one or more Internet blacklists. We get visited by hundreds of these spambots daily. To prevent these from taking resources away from legitimate users, we show this page. Please use the CAPTCHA below which proves you are human, not a spam bot. It's a one-time action** for your IP. After that, you will be able to access OpEd News easily. Thank you for your patience. * Here's more info about IP addresses. ** If your IP address is fixed, you'll be able to use this website from now on. However, if your Internet Service Provider (such as Verizon or T-Mobile) assigns you a different IP address every time you use your device, AND these IP addresses are NOT on an Internet blaclist, then all is good. If, for some strange reason, your ISP assigns you an IP that is blacklisted, then you'll have to go through this process again. (Unless you keep yourself logged in. We only check for spambots on non-logged in visitors.) The Gaza war and its human toll is now an afterthought as the international community and media have now disengaged and moved on from the unfolding genocide in the strip. Yes, I know many are going to do the feigned outrage and anger thing because of the fact that I believe that Israel continues to get a free pass to continue its ethnic cleansing of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. There is now a kind of global apathy towards Israel's atrocity and crimes against humanity. It's like people have become numb to the violence and brutality. Israel, true to form broke the Trump-brokered ceasefire and recommenced it full scale assault and horrendous bombing campaign of a defenseless people. Really, it's like shooting fish in a barrel. Since March 18 over 1,000 Palestinians have been mercilessly slaughtered even as Israel has blocked food, medicines, and water from entering the Gaza Strip in what amounts to a crime against humanity. And yes, Israel is not fighting a war - its exterminating "human animals" that have no right to live or any that western nations are bound to respect, least of all the Trump Administration. This horror and humanitarian catastrophe are unfolding as U.S. mainstream and western media have all but moved on to other news stories. Gaza is now not a major story. Hey, dropping 1200 lb. bombs "made in the USA" and indiscriminately murdering over 110 people a day is, well, just business as usual. There is nothing to see here. After all, no innocent Jewish children are being murdered. And just to drive home the point that underscores the times that we're living in, the New York Times found room at the end of March to report on manufactured anti-Hamas protests in Gaza, and how the militant group used innocent Palestinians as human shields. Somehow this justifies Israel's butchering of hundreds of children to "take out a Hamas terrorist." These are the favorite pro-genocide U.S. and western media talking points as they see it as evidence their "war on Hamas" is both morally justified and, somehow, endorsed by Palestinians themselves. Obscenely, just as the New York Times, the nightly news shows-CBS Evening News, NBC Nightly News, and ABC World News Tonight- all followed suit and covered the initial bombing and breaking of the ceasefire the day after Israel killed 400+ in under 24 hours. They all speculated about the fate of the remaining hostages but ignored the carnage cause by Israel. They even repeated literally verbatim the IDF's talking points about Hamas using children as human shields without providing one shred of evidence. The U.S. media was and is complicit in its conscious or unconscious regurgitation of the Trump administrations disruptive and quixotic behavior giving it non-stop coverage while ignoring the Gaza War. They all bought into the "flood the zone" strategy of the Trump White House as it attacked dozens of perceived and "created" enemies. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said that at least 322 children had been killed and 609 injured since Israel broke the ceasefire on March 18. But mum's the word from the U.S. mainstream and western media. And now that Trump's Mad Hatter tariff war on friend and foe alike is raging there is no reason to cover a little thing like genocide especially since it's not good, pure, white, Christian people being slaughtered. The mainstream U.S. and western media also helped former President Joe Biden to sustain the Gaza War, and fanatically support Israel at every turn parroting his not thoroughly discredited "Israel has a right to defend itself" mantra. So, tell me this: Is Israel defending itself today? From whom? Hungry, starving, homeless innocent women and children? Is preventing water, medicines and food from entering a strip of land that you control and are bombing non-stop, constitute self-defense? Is deliberately internally displacing one million people countless times a self-defense method? To help Biden cover up the carnage he egged on and gave the green light to the media used spin, deception, blamed Hamas, and behaved as though the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023 was the very first time in 75 years that Israel was attacked, and that NOTHING preceded this act of violent desperation. They were complicit in the covering up and papering over of Genocide Joe's greenlighting of the Gaza massacres. And now Donald Trump? They are ignoring the carnage and pointing Americans to look the other way. That is because Israel and its enablers can bank on the US and western media to normalize their genocide since this sustained violence against a defenseless people will become normal. Adolf Hitler's World War II Nazi Germany did the very same thing. Gee, I wonder where they got this propaganda playbook? Finally, few media outlets have criticized or pushed back against Donald Trump's open call to ethnically cleanse the Gaza Strip. Rather, the conversation is all about how to facilitate it so that it looks legitimate and a reasoned practical solution to a long-standing problem. The media is now spinning this as a debate over Trump's belligerent and bullying foreign policy, and a "take it or leave it" no-option for Gazans. They are asked to give up their homes for "a better life "elsewhere" something that no western nation would stomach for its own people. Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). The bullfighting season in Madrid for 2024 has officially begun and as always for more than 10 years https://madridbullfighting.com/ is now ready to offer the best tickets at the best prices on its website. This ancient tradition, filled with danger and grace, takes place in renowned bullrings such as Las Ventas. Despite the ongoing controversy surrounding it, bullfighting remains an important cultural event in Spain, attracting tourists from around the world. MEDIA ALERT/PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Salvation Army of Broward County Food Pantry Shelves Critically Empty-Community Urged to Help Refill Supplies Fort Lauderdale, FL (April 1, 2025)- The Salvation Army of Broward County is making an urgent appeal to the community as its food pantry shelves are bare. Due to recent changes in government programs, essential support from partnering agencies has been significantly reduced, limiting the organization's ability to serve individuals and families Los Angeles, CA (April 4th, 2025) - Recording artist EDM/Pop/Latin sensation Joshi is back with another captivating single, ready to set the music scene ablaze. Following the success of his debut single, "Hey Boy" Joshi is making waves once again with "Beauty and the Beat" released under TMGUniversal Music Group. This single showcases his dynamic artistry, irresistible beats, and a fresh sound that keeps fans coming back for more. Beauty and Vital Translate Buds- The End of Language Struggles? Imagine landing in Tokyo, chatting effortlessly with a local chef about regional delicacies-without speaking a word of Japanese. Or closing a business deal in Berlin while conversing fluently in German. Sounds like a dream? Enter Vital Translate Buds, the wireless earbuds turning this fantasy into reality. What Are Vital Translate Buds? Your Pocket-Sized Polyglot Vital Translate Buds aren't just earbuds-they're a linguistic breakthrough. Combining cutting-edge A snowy winter day at the Mt. Bachelor ski resort in Bend, home to 15 downhill ski lifts and several other winter recreation activities. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian In a full 180, the owner of the Mt. Bachelor ski area is calling off plans to sell the resort, saying it will retain ownership of the Central Oregon destination for the foreseeable future. Powdr Corp. said nearly eight months ago it would put North Americas seventh-largest ski resort on the market, bringing on JPMorgan Chase to field bidders. But on Friday it said it had considered all facts and circumstances and decided to keep ahold of the Cascade Mountain property indefinitely. Powdr has owned the ski area, founded by skier and businessman Bill Healy in 1958, since 2001. Were excited to continue our stewardship of the resort and serve the Central Oregon community with truly one-of-a-kind skiing, a Powdr spokesperson said. After Powdr indicated it planned to sell the resort, a Central Oregon group set in motion a plan to gather investors and make a bid for local ownership. The two men who spearheaded Mt. Bachelor Community Inc., Dan Cochrane and Chris Porter, cast their proposal as a means to wrest back local control of the amenitized treasure that looms just west of Bend. Even though the resort is no longer for sale, the group still hopes to craft some sort of joint venture with Powdr, according to Porter. People feel like Powdr has broken the social contract at Mt. Bachelor by pricing out the community, neglecting promised upgrades, neglecting maintenance and ignoring local input, Porter said on Friday. Collaborating with the community and transparency in decision making would go a long way in restoring some trust. The Powdr spokesperson, Stacey Hutchinson, did not address whether the owner would seek a partnership with Porters group but did say the company would commit to improvements on the mountain. Those included updates to the resorts power systems and offering a new kids ski free program for children under 12 accompanied by a passholder adult. -- Jonathan Bach covers housing and real estate. Reach him by email at jbach@oregonian.com or by phone at 503-221-4303. Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today. The University at Buffalo has had three National Institutes of Health grants terminated since March 12, resulting in the loss of at least $4.4 million in research funding. One of those grants studied peer victimization on health outcomes for LGBQ+ youth, who are at a higher risk of suicide, mental health symptoms and riskier alcohol and substance use behaviors. Another terminated grant was for the Center of Excellence in Investigator Development and Community Engagement, which planned to train the next generation of researchers to study health inequities around Buffalo. These details are included within documents filed Friday by New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 15 other attorneys general, who are suing the Trump administration for its unlawful cancellation of NIH research grants that fund critical medical and scientific advancements. The lawsuit comes after NIH last month began terminating grant funding for previously approved research projects, particularly targeting studies focused on diversity, equity and inclusion, LGBTQ+ health and vaccine hesitancy. Millions of Americans depend on our nations research institutions for treatments and cures to the diseases that devastate families every day, James said in a statement. The decision to cut these funds is an attack on science, public health and medical innovation and I wont stand for it. We are suing to restore these critical funds because the people of New York, and the entire nation, deserve better. UB wants researchers to address Buffalo's health inequities. A $3.6 million grant will help The five-year grant from the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities bolsters UB's efforts to study the root causes of inequities in Buffalo, a city where a Black person dies on average 10 to 12 years younger than a white person. NIH funding is vital to UB, which employs almost 12,000 people and has more than 32,000 students. In the last fiscal year, UB received funding through the NIH to support 224 projects, totaling $60.6 million, according to court records. Through those grants, the university funds more than 1,000 researchers. The work done by UB on NIH-funded projects covers a range of disciplines, from chemistry to dentistry, and from microbiology and immunology to pharmacology. In a written statement filed in court records Friday, Dr. Timothy F. Murphy said the termination notices UB received provided very little to explain the termination. Murphy, UBs senior associate dean for clinical and translational research, said the termination notices state: This award no longer effectuates agency priorities. The notices continued: So-called diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) studies are often used to support unlawful discrimination on the basis of race and other protected characteristics, which harms the health of Americans. Therefore, it is the policy of NIH not to prioritize such research programs. Murphy has worked at UB for 44 years, with his research continuously funded by the NIH for 42 of those years. He wrote that he had never had a grant canceled by NIH and had never seen this language to cancel grants. Murphy and UB had just announced plans in August for the Center of Excellence in Investigator Development and Community Engagement. That center was to be supported by a $3.6 million award over five years from NIHs National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities. The hope was that the center would bolster UBs efforts to study the root causes of inequities in Buffalo, a city where a Black person dies, on average, 10 to 12 years younger than a white person. And the center also hoped to lure new research talent to Buffalo, drawn here by the opportunity to study health equity and craft proposals that could be implemented in Western New York to drive change. In his statement in court, Murphy said the grant had met and exceeded all milestones in its first seven months of funding. UB scientists warn of 'dangers' from Trump's plan to cut federal medical research dollars If a 15% cap was instituted on indirect costs, the NIH claims it could save $4 billion a year. But research groups say the cuts would slow medical progress. Amy Hequembourg, an associate professor in UBs School of Nursing, also provided a written statement for the lawsuit. She is the co-principal investigator on another terminated grant, which was looking into the understudied role of peer victimization on health outcomes among LGBQ+ youth. For the study, the researchers had recruited 325 participants. To date, only 11% of those participants have progressed through all phases of study, meaning there was more work to be done that is now threatened by the grants termination. Hequembourg wrote that the grant supports the salaries of three research staff members. The School of Nursing dean has had to implement bridge funding in the near term, but the schools capacity is limited to just two weeks of bridge funds, after which the three staff members will be unemployed and the project will not be able to be completed. The termination of our grant and thousands of other NIH-funded grants across the nation will undermine and stagnate scientific progress to understand the nature of health disparities among LGBQ+ populations, Hequembourg wrote. A two-car crash on U.S. 97 in Klamath County killed one person Monday. Oregon State Police responded to the wreck near milepost 176 at 8:46 a.m and found Leif Taylor Celusta, 34, of Crescent, dead at the scene. Investigators determined that Celusta was driving a Buick LeSabre northbound when he lost control of the car. Celusta crossed into the southbound lane and struck a Kenworth commercial truck driven by Robert Emil Mewes, 58, of Madras. Mewes was reportedly uninjured. The highway was closed for about two hours during the initial phase of the investigation. Investigators believe speed and roadway conditions are potentially the primary causes of the crash. This story was drafted with the assistance of generative AI based on data from Oregon State Police and reviewed by Oregonian editorial staff. A multi-racial coalition of college students rally in support of affirmative action at the U.S. Supreme Court as justices hear a case against Harvard University's use of race as a consideration in admissions. The U.S. Department of Education has given state education agencies 10 days to certify that their schools do not engage in any practices that the administration believes illegally promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Those that do not sign a certification that they are in compliance with the administrations controversial interpretations of civil rights law will not receive any federal funding, Trump administration officials said. Federal funding represents about 10% of all K-12 funding nationwide but makes up a larger share of local budgets in high-poverty districts. The Trump administration has pledged to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and return education oversight to the states. At the same time, the Education Department has made aggressive and unusual use of its civil rights authority to extract concessions from elite universities and pressure states to change their policies. Some experts questioned the basis for the demand and said the administration could not legally withhold money from states that dont sign. The threat comes as many school districts are preparing their budgets for the next school year amid significant economic uncertainty. Federal financial assistance is a privilege, not a right, Craig Trainor, acting assistant secretary for civil rights, said in a statement. When state education commissioners accept federal funds, they agree to abide by federal antidiscrimination requirements. Unfortunately, we have seen too many schools flout or outright violate these obligations, including by using DEI programs to discriminate against one group of Americans to favor another based on identity characteristics in clear violation of Title VI. Title VI is a provision of federal civil rights law that bars discrimination on the basis of race or shared ancestry. States regularly certify that they are in compliance with Title VI in order to receive federal funds. Thursdays demand goes further by requiring states to say they also are in compliance with the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard. The case banned the use of race in college admissions decisions. The Trump administration interprets the ruling to mean many common diversity practices are illegal. Seth Galanter, an attorney who served as principal deputy assistant secretary in the Education Departments Office for Civil Rights in the Biden administration, called the new certification a baffling document that appears only to be trying to bully states and school districts. In signing, state education officials would be promising that all of their school districts are in compliance and acknowledging that they could be liable for fraud under the False Claims Act if they request federal funds and are later found to be in violation of the law. The False Claims Act, a federal law, also allows private parties to sue for damages, Galanter said, and win higher penalties than in civil rights cases. By invoking the False Claims Act, Galanter said the administration appears to be threatening states and school districts with more serious financial risks if they want to defend their diversity policies. But states shouldnt need to sign the new certification, Galanter said, when they have already certified compliance with civil rights law. The new certification also doesnt appear to have followed federal laws related to creating new paperwork, he said, meaning states cant be penalized for refusing to sign. Nor is it reasonable to give state education agencies 10 days to make legally binding promises about the practices of the nations thousands of school districts, he said. That is not serious governance, Galanter said. Its stagecraft. Marc Siegel, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Education, told The Oregonian/OregonLive that his agency, Oregon Gov. Tina Koteks office and the attorney generals office are all reviewing the administrations request. A spokesperson for Kotek said Oregon school districts should await further guidance. State schools chief Charlene Williams has not indicated whether she will sign the certification or not. U.S. Department of Education officials wrote in a February Dear Colleague letter that the Students for Fair Admissions decision meant any consideration of race or of proxies for race in educational settings would violate civil rights law. The Trump administration has said the ruling extends to considering race as a factor in school admissions, hiring or promoting staff, awarding students scholarships or prizes, providing students with administrative support and deciding how students should be sanctioned or disciplined. For example, dropping the use of test scores as an admissions criterion for a selective program with the hopes of increasing racial diversity, or holding a separate graduation ceremony to recognize students of a particular ethnic group, could violate the law. The first investigation opened by the administration under this new interpretation began last month. It targeted colleges and universities that partnered with an organization that provided mentorship for graduate students of color. Many legal experts believe the administrations interpretation goes much further than the Supreme Court did and is not supported by the law. The Dear Colleague letter generated significant confusion among school and district leaders and is being challenged in court. Conservative groups have adopted its argument to challenge initiatives that aim to address long-standing disparities, such as Chicagos recently unveiled Black student success plan. Eric Duncan, director of P-12 policy at EdTrust, an advocacy group, said the certification demand appears to be an effort to put states on notice that they could be investigated, similar to the way the administration has targeted Maine over transgender athletes. States do have an obligation to ensure their programs dont discriminate based on race, he said, but they also have an obligation to work to fix racial inequities. Federal law hasnt changed, he said, and states could choose to defend their diversity programs based on their own understanding of the law. Its really in states hands right now, he said. Several state education agencies told Chalkbeat they are reviewing the letter and consulting with their attorneys. Diversity is a superpower here in New York City, we are always going to honor that, New York City Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos said in response to questions at an unrelated event Thursday. We are always going to make sure that we are serving every child and family in New York City. At a policy committee meeting, Philadelphia Board of Education member Joan Stern, reflecting on the likelihood that any funding threats will be challenged in court, said, Anything that appears to be final is usually not final. Every presidential administration attempts to use its influence to shape local policy, Galanter said. The Trump administration is using that influence differently, though. Trumps Office for Civil Rights has publicly opened investigations based on media reports rather than formal complaints and has reached conclusions relatively quickly. Historically, even when the federal Education Department found school districts to be in violation of civil rights law, the federal government has worked with them on resolution agreements rather than actually withhold funding. But any school district or state education agency considering its options now will have to look at the example of Columbia University, where the Trump administration abruptly canceled $400 million in grants and contracts after finding that pro-Palestinian protests had created a hostile environment for Jewish students. The Education Department presented the university with a list of demands that included ceding control of one academic department, and the university complied. Theres lots of ways to influence behavior that are perfectly legitimate, and they may put schools on the spot, but the schools still have real choices, Galanter said. What this administration is doing is trying to rule by edict. They say, Do it our way, or something bad may happen. And they tried to make it so that the threat seems credible. This story was originally published by Chalkbeat, a nonprofit news site covering educational change in public schools. Sign up for Chalkbeats free weekly newsletter to keep up with how education is changing across the U.S. Carly Sitrin, Amy Zimmer, and Alex Zimmerman of Chalkbeat contributed reporting. Julia Silverman, education reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive, contributed reporting from Oregon. Erica Meltzer is Chalkbeats national editor based in Colorado. Contact Erica at emeltzer@chalkbeat.org. Tillamook cheese in the dairy department of he Happy Valley Fred Meyer store. The Oregon Supreme Court has reversed a lower court decision in a Tillamook 'greenwashing' lawsuit. Dave Killen / The Oregonian The Oregon Supreme Court has reversed a lower court ruling, saying the states Court of Appeals should reconsider disqualifying a class-action case that accuses the Tillamook County Creamery Association of greenwashing practices. The highest court ruled that customers who say they suffered a financial loss by buying Tillamook products would not need to prove they were convinced by the companys alleged misleading ads to buy the products. The decision, issued Thursday a year after the case was argued at the Lewis & Clark Law School is a victory for the plaintiffs. But it does not settle whether a class action will be certified nor does it address any of the greenwashing claims in the case. A class action case allows a group of people to file a suit on behalf of others who have suffered similar losses. If the lawsuit is successful, they can all file for damages. In the Tillamook case, filed in 2019 in Multnomah County, four Oregon consumers alleged they had purchased Tillamook products because they formed a positive belief based on the 110-year-old farmer-owned dairy cooperatives advertising that the milk the company used to make its cheese and ice cream came from small family dairies whose cows graze on the Oregon coasts pastures when in fact most of Tillamooks milk comes from an industrial dairy in eastern Oregon. The lawsuit also alleged that Tillamooks misrepresentations allowed the company to charge a premium price for its products a premium paid by anyone who bought the products, regardless of whether they saw the companys marketing and advertising. A Multnomah County Circuit Court judge dismissed the case, saying it doesnt qualify for a class-action status because everyone who joined the class-action suit would have had to view the ads and rely on their representations when buying Tillamook products to be financially hurt by the premiums. The Oregon Court of Appeals in August 2022 affirmed that decision. But the states highest court ruled that not everyone who joined the class-action suit would have had to view the ads and rely on their representations to buy Tillamook products in order to be hurt financially by the premium price. The Tillamook County Creamery Association said in a statement that the ruling is not a final decision on the merits and does not confirm that this case justifies a trial, it is simply the latest development in a lengthy judicial process. The cooperative said it adamantly disagrees with the allegations made in the lawsuit and that it has never hidden the fact that not all of its milk and products originate from Tillamook County. Owned by 60 farmers and employing 900 people in Oregon alone, the cooperative runs two processing plants, one in Tillamook and one in Boardman, and operates the iconic Tillamook Creamery visitor center on the coast. In 2022, the cooperative exceeded $1.2 billion in retail sales. Its products are found in most supermarkets across the U.S. Two thirds of its milk comes from Columbia River Dairy outside Boardman, which is owned by Boardman-based Threemile Canyon Farms, Oregons largest industrial dairy operation and one of the largest in the U.S. Columbia River Dairy is a confined animal feeding operation and has a permit to hold 28,000 cows. Gosia Wozniacka covers environmental justice, climate change, the clean energy transition and other environmental issues. Reach her at gwozniacka@oregonian.com or 971-421-3154. Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com. Blaine Cook, a retired U.S. Forest Service forest management scientist, walks through a logging site in the Black Hills National Forest, on July 14, 2021, near Custer City, S.D. Cook said his monitoring work last decade showed too many trees were being cut from the forest. (AP Photo/Matthew Brown) AP President Donald Trumps administration acted to roll back environmental protections around future logging projects on more than half of U.S. national forests under an emergency designation Friday that cites the dangers of wildfires. Whether the move will boost production remains to be seen. Former President Joe Bidens administration also sought to ramp up logging on public lands to combat fires that are worsening as the world gets hotter, yet U.S. Forest Service timber sales dipped under the Democrats tenure. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins did not mention climate change in Fridays directive, which called on her staff to streamline environmental reviews. It exempts affected forests from an objection process that allows outside groups, tribes and state or local governments to challenge logging proposals at the administrative level before they are finalized. It also narrows the number of alternatives federal officials can consider when weighing logging projects. Logging projects are routinely contested by conservation groups, both at the administrative level and in court, which can drag out the approval process for years. The emergency designation covers 176,000 square miles, primarily in the West but also forests in the South, around the Great Lakes and in New England. Combined, its an area larger than California. Most of those forests are considered to have high wildfire risk, and many are in decline because of insects and disease. National Forests are in crisis due to uncharacteristically severe wildfires, insect and disease outbreaks, invasive species and other stressors, Rollins said in her directive, echoing concerns raised by her predecessor under Biden, former Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. She said those threats combined with overgrown forests, more homes in wild areas and decades of aggressive fire suppression add up to a forest health crisis that could be helped with more logging. Fridays move follows Trumps executive order last month that sought to increase timber and lumber supplies, and possibly lower housing and construction costs. Concerns about lost safeguards In response to the emergency designations, environmentalists rejected the claim that wildfire protection was driving the changes to forest policy. Dont be fooled: The Trump administration and its allies in Congress arent trying to solve the wildfire crisis or protect communities threatened by it, Josh Hicks with The Wilderness Society said in a statement. Instead, they are aiming to deepen the pockets of private industry to log across our shared, public forests, while sidestepping public review. The Forest Service has sold about 3 billion board feet of timber annually for the past decade. Timber sales peaked several decades ago at about 12 billion board feet amid widespread clearcutting of forests. Volumes dropped sharply in the 1990s as environmental protections were tightened and more areas were put off limits to logging. Most timber is harvested from private lands. Under Biden, the Forest Service sought to more intensively manage national forests in the West, by speeding up wildfire protection work including logging in so-called priority landscapes covering about 70,000 square miles. Much of that work involved smaller trees and younger forests that add fuel to wildfires but are less profitable for loggers. Biden also proposed more protections for old-growth forests, drawing backlash from the timber industry, but that plan was abandoned in the administrations final days. Rollins directive did not address old-growth forests. Timber industry wants more trees available Industry representatives said they hope the Trump administrations actions will result in the sales of more full-grown stands of trees that are desired by sawmills. Federal law allows for the harvest of about 6 billion board feet annually about twice the level thats now logged, said Travis Joseph, president of the Oregon-based American Forest Resource Council, an industry group. This industry needs a raw supply to remain competitive and keep the doors open, he said. Were not even reaching half of what forest plans currently call for. Lets implement our forest plans across the country, and if we did that, that should increase the volume thats available to American mills and create American jobs and create revenue. Trump last month ordered federal officials to investigate the possible harms of lumber imports to national security. The administration said Canada and other countries engage in lumber subsidies that disadvantage the United States. Canadian timber was left out of the presidents latest round of tariffs. Universities, law firms, and media outlets are increasingly under attack by the Trump administration. As a college student, I worry about the future of education, yet instead of resisting, many institutions are simply capitulating. Take Columbia University: under pressure from the Trump administration, it agreed to hire special officers to monitor protests and it banned face coverings all because the federal government withheld $400 million in funding. This is despite Columbias $14.8 billion endowment. If institutions with such vast resources wont stand up to these authoritarian tactics, who will? Columbia is not alone. The University of Maine, the University of Oregon, the University of Delaware, Tufts University and the University of Kentucky, among others, have also faced federal overreach. The message must be clear: government funding does not equate to unchecked control over campus affairs. This issue extends beyond academia. Major law firms like Paul Weiss and Perkins Coie and media outlets like ABC News (owned by Disney) are also feeling the pressure. We cannot allow President Donald Trump and figures like Elon Musk to strong-arm the free press and educational institutions into submission. If our democracy is to remain strong, those committed to its preservationuniversities, legal institutions, and the mediamust band together and push back. Students are counting on these institutions to uphold their integrity, protect free expression, and resist undue government influence. Now is the time to take a stand. Taliek Lopez-DuBoff, Eugene To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion. An Oregon bill would discourage employers from summoning U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in retaliation against immigrant workers. (Alex Brandon/AP file photo) AP A bill before the Oregon Legislature would attempt to take a stand against President Donald Trumps national crackdown on immigrants by penalizing local employers who call or threaten to summon federal deportation authorities. The aim is to protect undocumented employees who complain about workplace conditions, unpaid wages and other on-the-job abuses. Various versions of Senate Bill 1119 would fine employers $1,000 to $10,000 for each instance of retaliation, or as supporters termed it, each effort to scare the worker into submission. Opponents of the bill say it lays out an unneeded fix to a highly improbable scenario, because employers are unlikely to admit to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigators that they have undocumented workers on their payrolls. The Oregon Farm Bureau, which represents more than 6,500 farms and ranches that employ large numbers of immigrants, says the idea that an employer would initiate a federal investigation into one of its undocumented workers defies basic logic. Employers dont do this, agreed Paloma Sparks, general counsel for the advocacy group Oregon Business & Industry. If you have knowingly hired somebody or have reason to know that youve hired somebody with uncertain immigration status, youre in much bigger trouble. Both groups say the far more likely occurrence is that a spiteful coworker might report a colleague to federal authorities. The proposed legislation, they say, doesnt do anything to prevent that. Supporters of the bill, however, contend employers often make threats that their immigrant employees dont know are idle. For us, this is not a hypothetical, said Mike Powers, president of the 70,000-worker union SEIU Local 503. This bill sends a message that were going to protect all of our workers, whether a family arrived in 1824 or 2024. The bills chief sponsor is Sen. Kathleen Taylor, a Portland Democrat and chair of the Senate Labor and Business Committee. That panel held a public hearing for the bill earlier this week. The bill is scheduled for a vote to potentially advance out of committee on Tuesday. The proposal has attracted support from some of Oregons largest unions, including the Oregon Education Association, which represents teachers, and Oregon AFSCME, which represents public and private sector employees. Leaders say they worry employers may target immigrants for attempting to form unions. But the bill also garnered written opposition from individuals across the state, including one who wrote the bill is an attempt to thwart the will of the people who voted in a new President and the #1 reason was to curb ILLEGAL immigration. Since Trump took office, hes promised to unfurl the largest mass deportation in the countrys history. Immigrants rights advocates say that has instilled widespread fear because federal authorities have swept up immigrants whove entered the country legally and have no criminal history. Sadly, in todays hateful national political climate, some unscrupulous employers are increasing their threats against immigrant workers who stand up for their rights, Kate Suisman, an attorney for the Northwest Workers Justice Project, told the committee. And right now, no one feels safe so its almost beside the point if you have a green card, citizenship etc., she told The Oregonian/OregonLive, since this administration is detaining plenty of people who have permission to be here. Aimee Green is covering the Oregon Legislature this session. Reach her at 503-294-5119, agreen@oregonian.com or on Bluesky. Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com. The planned protests in the Portland metro area will be just a few of many protests set to happen across the U.S. on April 5. The protest pictured here was in March. Mark Graves/The Oregonian Dozens of coordinated protests against the Trump administration are set to spring up across Oregon on Saturday, including several in the Portland metro area. The Hands Off! demonstrations which are happening across the country come in response to the Trump administration firing thousands of federal employees, implementing sweeping tariffs and moving to roll back environmental regulations, among other issues. The Portland-area protests are expected to take place at the Japanese American Historical Plaza on the downtown waterfront at noon, at St. Johns Plaza in North Portland at 10:30 a.m. and at the south end of Westmoreland Park in Southeast Portland at 9:30 a.m. Other related demonstrations will take place in Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard and Milwaukie as well as throughout the state. Demonstrators at the downtown Portland event will march along a planned two-mile loop, according to the events webpage. Its unclear how many people will show up or what the traffic impact will be. Portland Bureau of Transportation spokesperson Dylan Rivera said in an email that the bureau has not yet received any calls or emails from demonstrators asking for a permit to march in the street. Kevin Allen, spokesperson for the Portland Police Bureau, told The Oregonian/OregonLive that the bureau will have extra officers available on the day of the event, and that its encouraging demonstration organizers to apply for a permit to march. The Portland events webpage says that the organizers expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values. Tatum Todd is a breaking news reporter who covers public safety, crime and community news. Reach them at ttodd@oregonian.com or 503-221-4313. On Wednesday morning when skies were calm and blue, chatter filled the airwaves at the Bend Municipal Airport. In a language of letters, numbers and directions, the conversation was an off-the-cuff effort of pilots to avoid a conflict as multiple planes were taking off and landing each minute. There are more takeoffs and landings at this small airport east of Bend than all but two others in the state. Twice as many aircraft go in and out each year than at the Redmond Airport. Still, there is no one to direct them. Behind the wheel of a small Ford SUV, Airport Manager Tracy Williams chimed in to the conversation, announcing an expedited crossing of the runway. The car speeds across safely. By next year, this runway dance will be much different. The airport is about one-third finished with construction of a new $10 million air traffic control tower, where controllers will orchestrate takeoffs and landings from an eight-story perch. At the construction site just east of the runway, crews have built the towers seven-story steel frame. Its base is 25 feet by 25 feet. Crews still need to add an eighth story, an octagonal cab where controllers will work. Inside looking up at some of the design characteristics of the new $15 million air traffic control tower being constructed at the Bend Municipal Airport Wednesday morning. The tower will also feature a rotating beacon, antennas, lightning rods, a service road, a parking area, utility connections, a perimeter fence and weather sensors on a mast. The tower was initially expected to be complete in October, but delays have pushed the completion back to January 2026. Williams, who pushed for several years to secure federal funding for the tower, has watched from her office window across the runway as the steel structure goes up. Shes especially excited about the towers modern design, including the outdoor deck facing the runway where controllers can sit on breaks. Were building a brand new tower, might as well make it cool, she said. According to Williams, it will be the first federally funded air traffic control tower to open in the last five years thats not owned and operated by the Federal Aviation Administration. The tower will add a layer of safety to the airport, but it doesnt mean larger aircraft will begin flocking there, Williams said. Corporate, medical and private planes all use the Bend airport. About 300 planes are housed there. About one-third of the air traffic can be attributed to training and flight schools, including small helicopters. Some pilots fly planes using instruments to navigate, others by sight. They could be approaching the airport at 60 miles per hour or 160, on trips that could range from a few miles to hundreds. That combination of traffic can create lots of conflicts, said Brian Shelk, a commercial-rated pilot who has been flying for fun out of the Bend airport for more than a decade. Shelk was rolling his blue Cessna 185 from a hangar Wednesday morning as he prepared to fly over Burns to examine recent severe flooding. Theres no one organizing the takeoffs and landings. Its all up to the pilots to talk on the radio and coordinate amongst themselves. For pilots, using a towerless airport comes at a cost. A disorganized runway queue means planes sometimes idle for minutes, guzzling gallons of gas. If a larger plane approaches the airport too quickly with a smaller, slower plane in front of it, the larger plane might have to pull up and circle back around, which can cost thousands of dollars. Nationally, recent incidents of midair collisions and near-misses have created a heightened sense of awareness about the dangers of flying. So much of that could be mitigated with an air traffic control tower organizing aircraft, sequencing them based on their speed, Shelk said. 2025 The Bulletin, Bend, Ore.. Visit www.bendbulletin.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Six officials with ties to Washington County's sewer agency attended the Hawaii Captive Insurance Council forum on the Big Island in 2023, at a cost of nearly $42,000. All six stayed at the Fairmont Orchid, a 5-star hotel that features a 10,000-square-foot oceanfront pool overlooking Pauoa Bay. Getty Images Getty Images New oversight measures are being promised for Washington Countys embattled sewer agency in the wake of an investigation by The Oregonian/OregonLive that uncovered lavish business trips to Hawaii and sky-high food expenses. The Clean Water Services board of directors, which is solely composed of the five Washington County commissioners, disclosed the accountability efforts late Thursday in its first public statements to appease unrest over agency perks and spending. Correction: This story was updated at 9:13 a.m. on April 4 to reflect that OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. did meet with Rep. Kevin Hern. This article was updated at 12:48 p.m. April 8 to reflect that the D.C Area Alumni reception was hosted by the OU Foundation and not the OU Alumni Capital Club. OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. met with Oklahoma lawmakers this week to update them on university finances and plans for growth in Washington, D.C. According to a statement from OU Marketing and Communications, Harroz discussed advancing the universitys priorities with key legislators and was accompanied by his wife, Ashley Harroz, and other university representatives. NEWSLETTERS * required Thank you for subscribing! Email * Please enter a valid email address First Name Last Name When major news breaks + a few times a week FREE SIGN UP Subscribing... In an email last month, Harroz unveiled revisions to the Lead On, University strategic plan called The Next Phase. Changes included removing the goal of OU being attainable and affordable for ascend as ONE OU, and the goal of being a place of belonging and emotional growth was swapped for the aim to lift the health of Oklahoma. Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Harroz discussed university funding priorities, how things are going on campus and future plans, his communications director, Maria Reynolds, wrote in an email. It was great to hear about OUs growth and their vision for making Oklahoma even better, Lankford wrote in an Instagram post on April 1. Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) also met with Harroz, press secretary Kate Currie wrote in an email. Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) and Harroz had breakfast cigars together, discussed how Cole can best represent the university at the national level and entitlement spending, which provides benefits for people who meet certain criteria, communications director Olivia Porcaro told OU Daily in an email. Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.) and Harroz focused on OUs College of Medicine, discussing its financial health and new dean, Ian Dunn. They also talked about Harrozs aim to bring top notch specialty doctors to Oklahoma, according to an email from communications director Wesley Harkins. Rep. Kevin Hern (R-Okla.) and Harroz also met. Press secretary Zack Lissau wrote in an email to OU Daily that they have a strong working relationship and often discuss OUs impact in Tulsa. Harroz and other OU representatives also attended a D.C. Area Alumni and Friends Reception hosted by the OU Foundation and attended by members of the OU Alumni Capital Club, an organization of OU graduates in Washington, D.C. Capital Club president Rainey Sewell told OU Daily in a text message Harroz gave a brief welcome speech to update alumni about student enrollment and fundraising. NO PAYWALL, NONPARTISAN Students pay about $14 in fees that support the Daily. If you're not a student, please join those invested in OU and Norman who have given more than $110,000 to support our trustworthy, independent journalism. SUPPORT OUR LOCAL JOURNALISM Jonathan Lunardi, information and technology consultant, and Capital Club board member, said watching Harroz speak with the U.S. Capitol behind him was an impactful sight, and gathering with influential Sooners in D.C. is always encouraging. Lunardi said an alumni he was with asked Harroz about urging from the Trump administration to cut diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Harroz said not much university policy has changed, because OU administrators dont want to decrease inclusivity Lunardi said. At least 45 universities are under investigation by the Trump administration for race-based discrimination through DEI policies, including OUs Tulsa campus. Specifically, OU-Tulsa is being investigated for alleged impermissible race-based scholarships and race-based segregation. Harroz said the university is feeling pressure from the administration to cut back on programming for transgender students, and they have, according to Lunardi. Theyre waiting and seeing, but it really hasnt affected them much at all, Lunardi said. And he really feels diversity is super important. According to Lunardi Harroz also briefly mentioned the new strategic plan and said theyve reduced the cost of attending OU by 28%. Twenty one Norman city representatives will be in Washington, D.C. April 7-9 for the annual Washington Fly-In, where they will meet with lawmakers and advocate for issues relevant to Norman business. Chamber of Commerce President Scott Martin said Ward 7 Councilmember Stephen Tyler Holman, Ward 4 Councilmember Helen Grant, Ward 6 Councilmember Joshua Hinkle, Ward 8 Councilmember Scott Dixon and City Manager Darrel Pyle are part of the delegation, along with Martin, Chamber of Commerce members and two OU students. The Norman representatives have meetings scheduled with all seven of Oklahomas delegation members and plan to discuss National Weather Center cuts and securing federal funding for the 36th Avenue Northwest expansion project and Max Westheimer Airport renovations. Martin said the group of Norman representatives are cheerleaders for local business, and he is confident the trip will bring great outcomes for the city. With all that's going on right now around discussion on the federal level, we're excited to be able to go up there and bring the message of why what they're doing and how that impacts local businesses here in Norman, Martin said. This story was edited by Anusha Fathepure, Peggy Dodd, Ismael Lele and Ana Barboza. Allie Clift and Sophie Hemker copy edited this story. What was Microsofts best Windows operating system of all time? If youre like us, you haveopinions. Even if youre not the type to parse through all of the little details that separated Windows 98 from Windows 95, say, you certainly had a favorite Windows OS that you grew up with, cherished, and then fumed when Microsoft replaced it with something different. Likewise, you had versions of Windows that you probably detested. Maybe you even (gulp) tried Linux? (Nah.) But ranking each version of Windows? As in, picking a winner? Thats where the fun lies. Ive ranked every major consumer version of Windows, from worst to best. As Microsoft celebrates its 50th anniversary, see if you agree with what Ive picked. Windows 2.0 (1987) Although I grew up with Windows, I have no memory of Windows 2.0, and Im not sure you do, either. (A YouTube video provides a tour of Windows 2.0, if youre interested.) History tells us that Windows 2.0 took Windows 1.0s tiled applications and allows them to overlap one another, which would be a relatively big deal for the tiny, low-resolution monitors of the 1980s. Add to that early versions of Word and Excel, and Windows PCs were in their infancy as productivity PCs. Another key upgrade: the Control Panel, which provided Windows settings before Windows Settings was Settings, if you know what I mean. Windows 2.0 and some applications. Microsoft Windows 2.0 set up Windows 3.0 by allowing a protected mode kernel that allowed multitasking of MS-DOS applications, but Windows applications all shared a virtual MS-DOS machine. Microsoft engineers were also ensnared in the OS/2 project with IBM, which may have also lessened Windows 2.0s impact. Windows ME (2000) Windows Millenium Edition (Windows ME) paralleled Windows 2000 as a consumer-first operating system still tied to the legacy of MS-DOS, but didnt exactly overwhelm users with its new consumer features like Windows Movie Maker and updated versions of Windows Media Player and the Windows DVD Player. Windows ME wasnt really stable and didnt perform especially well, either, which made the included System Restore a more necessary feature than you might otherwise think. (ME also automatically downloaded and installed updates.) Windows ME left support in June 2002, a quick exit after launching in Sept. 2000. Windows XP launched on Oct. 25, 2001 on the stable Windows NT kernel, which meant that MEs lifespan was about one year. in 2006, PCWorld characterized Windows ME as Windows Mistake Edition and included it in the 25 worst tech products of all time. Windows 1.0 (1985) Iconic! Windows 1.0 marked the transition from the text-based world of MS-DOS into the visual world of the GUI, which had taken off with 1983s release of the Apple Lisa. Naturally, Windows 1.0 necessitated a mouse, bringing that pointing device even more into the mainstream. While MS-DOS was just a single-tasked OS, Windows also used preemptive or cooperative multitasking for programs to release their resources so that other programs to use them. Windows 1.0 featured tiled windows. Microsoft Windows 1.0 was the necessary first step, the one which launched generations of iteratively improving visual computing and identified Microsoft-centric PCs as Windows PCs. But it was still rudimentary the windows were just tiled, for example. Overlapping windows debuted in Windows 2.0. Windows 8 (2012-2013) We could have separated Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 into separate items, too, but that would have forced me to write about Windows 8, twice. Thats intolerable, so Im jamming all my distaste for Windows 8/8.1 into a single entry. What we all hated about Windows 8/8.1 was the godawful Modern tablet interface that Microsoft forced upon us, and the awkward tablet-esque app experience that accompanied it. Windows 8 also included Charms, the quasi-taskbar that appeared when moving to the right-hand side of the interface. (Live Tiles worked wonderfully, eventually, on Windows Phones, and I loved the implementation into Windows 10s Start menu, too.) manaemedia/Shutterstock.com Windows 8.1 allowed you to boot directly to the desktop, though it wasnt really the true desktop that were all used to even though the Start button was there, it still brought you back to the Modern tiles unless you configured it to show you a list of apps. Start did allow you to shut down your PC directly from the Start button, however. All I recall about Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 was trying to keep it together until the first previews of Windows 10 debuted in 2015. Thank goodness Windows 8.1 finally ended support in 2023 and was banished forever. But why didnt Windows 8 give way to Windows 9? Windows 2000 (2000) Windows 2000 was essentially an experiment: give business or power users their own operating system, and let consumers (with Windows ME) have their own, as well. It ran on the Windows NT kernel which, if it wasnt originally designed for workstations and servers, wed probably call out as an honorary mention. As Wikipedia notes, Windows 2000 was designed to be stable and secure. On that last point, however, it wasnt; portions of the source code leaked to the Internet, and Windows 2000 was attacked via Code Red and Nimda. Windows 2000 basically took Windows 98 features such as Internet Explorer and brought them on to the Windows NT kernel, along with FAT32 support, Windows Media Player, Internet Connection Sharing, and more. Windows File Protection was a new feature, along with USB 2.0 device support and the ability to drop into hibernation. Windows 3.0 (1990) Windows 3.0 began life as a skunkworks project to run Windows applications in separate protected memory segments while maintaining backwards compatibility with MS-DOS, using what former Windows president Steven Sinofsky called hacks to Intels hardware like the PrestoChangeoSelector. It was so impressive that Microsoft backed it with a $3 million launch. Windows 3.0s desktop. Microsoft Windows 3.0 looked significantly cooler, adding to its appeal, with support up to 256 colors. Under-the-hood improvements such as the ability to share data between applications complemented the introduction of the File Manager and Program Manager, as well as the ability to run in different modes to support older Intel 286 processors as well as the more modern 386 via an enhanced mode. As you may recall, Windows 3.0 didnt attract games, as the vast majority of games at the time ran under DOS. Thats a bit ironic, given that Windows 3.0 with Multimedia Extensions (1991) added a Media Control Interface for sound and graphics cards, as well as the Media Player program. But the real irony is that Windows 3.0 launched Windows Solitaire, which is still the grand daddy of all time-wasters. Windows 3.1 (1992) The question that we asked while putting together this list: should Windows 3.1 be considered separate and distinct from Windows 3.0? For the purposes of this list, yes theres enough to draw distinctions between the two. (Well disagree about Windows 8 and Windows 8.1, though.) Much of our list focuses on standalone iterations of the Windows operating system. A key exception is Windows 3.1, which really transformed Windows and Windows PCs into multimedia machines. As a enthusiast, Windows 3.1 is the version of Windows 3.0/3.1 that I consider to be the more important. Its still a Microsoft milestone. Windows 3.1 allowed for windows to be superimposed over one anothe. IDG Windows 3.1 introduced the era of screensavers, MIDI files (played back via Media Player), SVGA graphics, Sound Recorder, and a distribution method on CD-ROM. This release even saw Microsoft ship Video for Windows. Underneath the hood, Windows 3.1 also introduced the Windows registry, with drag-and-drop file management and even quick formatting. TrueType scalable fonts were included, as well. Its easy to focus on Windows 3.0 and Windows 3.1 as two versions of the same OS, but they werent; Microsoft even charged more. Microsoft sold Windows 3.0 for $149, but offered Windows 3.0 for $50 for those who owned a previous license, Wikipedia noted. Microsoft charged the same $149 for a retail copy of Windows 3.1. Windows 98 (1998) Its not fair to call Windows 98 a service pack for Windows 95, but this 1998 consumer operating system was very influenced by Windows 95. Its chief features were support for the emerging standard of DVD-ROMs, as well as its support for early USB hardware. But Windows 98 essentially served as a gateway to the Internet for Windows, with the Active Desktop allowing active Web content to be added to the desktop and Internet Explorer 4.0 debuting. Wikipedia Windows 98 was also the first time we saw Windows Update be added to Windows, allowing patches to be pushed to client PCs, and Windows Cleanup, which set the stage for Storage Sense to de-clutter the users hard drive and enable more usable space. Windows 98 was a minor release of Windows. But as a follow-on to Windows 95, it ranks decently as a result. Windows Vista (2007) Windows Vista wasnt the worst of Microsofts operating systems, aesthetically. Vista (the first Windows OS to ship on a DVD-ROM) featured the glassy look of Windows Aero, and shipped with a perfectly serviceable Start menu, taskbar, and the new Windows Sidebar that basically served as a repository for Windows widgets. Microsoft was determined to make Vista secure, however, and the infamous User Access Controls (UAC) proved to be its undoing. UACs annoyingly popped up frequently, asking users whether they in fact wanted to take an action that Windows might deem unsafe. (Users, just wanting to get on with it, would just keep approving them.) BitLocker drive encryption also debuted on the premium editions, while Backup and Restore helped protect user data. Microsoft debuted ReadyBoost to basically turn flash drives and available system RAM into cache, but users complained that Vista ran slow anyway. Microsoft Vista demanded good hardware, was a pain to use, and required several service packs, one of which allowed users to change the desktop search program because of antitrust concerns raised by Google. Microsoft has a reputation for shipping alternating bad than good operating systems, and Vistas position between Windows XP and Windows 7 just perpetuated that. Windows 7 (2009) Like Windows 10, Windows 7 was primarily an apology of sorts for its predecessor, Windows Vista. Based upon Windows NT, the Windows 7 operating system significantly boosted performance in terms of boot and shutdown times, while minimizing the constant interruptions that Vistas UACs introduced. Foundry Windows 7 maintained and expanded upon the visual themes that Windows Vista introduced. Right-clicking launched jump lists, which remain today. The Taskbar (with the ability to pin apps) was a significant upgrade, and File Explorer added libraries which stored the users documents, videos, music and more. BitLocker, Windows Defender, and Security Essentials added additional security. The OS also was the first to recognize the power of SSDs, with a specific TRIM command to optimize them, as well as virtual hard disks. Windows 7 was where Microsoft started to get a little crazy in terms of various editions of the operating system, including Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, Ultimate, and Enterprise, all differentiated by different feature sets. You also got to choose: did you want a 32-bit copy or a version for the latest IA-64 processors? (Read our Windows 7 review.) Windows XP (2001) Microsofts best versions of Windows dont try to do too much, serving as a unified foundation for business productivity users and consumers alike. Windows XP did just that basically taking Windows 2000s reliance on the stable Windows NT kernel and adding consumer features, or, alternatively, taking Windows Me and applying a bit of sanity to it. IDG To some, Windows XPs Start menu a straightforward list of apps and functions still remains the best ever. Ditto for the background wallpaper, Bliss. XP didnt add that much: ClearType rendered fonts better on LCD displays, prefetching sped up boot times and helped enable fast user switching. Remote Assistance and Remote Desktop began making life easier for relatives asked to do tech support. For the time, there was a big black mark: Windows Product Activation, which meant that Windows would essentially not function without the proper code. That led to a new generation of headaches for people buying or building or upgrading PCs. But XP still remained immensely popular even years later, because it just worked. Windows 11 (2021) Like Windows 10, Windows 11 has existed long enough that the operating system has evolved far beyond its roots. Microsofts code always evolves, true, but Windows 11 felt like it began as a handy place to repurpose some of its unused Windows 10X concepts, leaving me feel like Windows 11 began life as an unnecessary replacement for Windows 10. And it was! The Start menu and Taskbar still arent great, while the Widget menu is basically a collection of the digital crap you find at the bottom of tech media web pages. And who can forget the fiasco of Windows 11s hardware requirements? But four years on, I love what Microsoft Snap and the Settings menus are evolving into. Microsoft dumped Teams Chat, and the hardware issues have gone away. Windows 11s Start menu was a step back. Foundry Today, Windows 11 is almost a separate OS, predicated (somewhat, but not entirely) on AI. But theres still a lack of cohesion. Copilot was an integral part of the operating system, with the ability to actually change Settings; now its not, and Copilot is an app that can be ignored or reviewed (or in the case of the Copilot keyboard key) repurposed. AI features within Paint and Photos range from the weird Cocreator to the underappreciated, practical AI tools in Photos. Recall was an enormous scandal and now is largely forgotten. I hate to say it, but Windows 11s AI focus basically is asking for Windows 12: an operating system designed for AI from the ground up. (Put down your pitchforks, please!) Sure, Windows is always evolving, but Windows 11 still feels like Microsoft is making it up on the fly. Windows 95 (1995) With Windows 95, Windows went mainstream. Suddenly, Windows was crossing the threshold from an OS that people had to use or that nerds enjoyed tinkering with into something that mainstream America almost thought was cool. Of course, some of that was due to the marketing; the Rolling Stones Start Me Up proved to be a perfect fit, though the You make a grown man cry lyric never made it in. Even the startup sound came from the keyboard of Brian Eno. Foundry Though you could access MS-DOS, Windows 95 marked a clean break from the MS-DOS era, running in 32-bit mode. (Today, you can run Windows 95 in your browser.) Of course, Windows 95s iconic feature was the Start menu, followed by the introduction of the Taskbar and what was then known as the Notification area. While it didnt include Microsofts Internet Explorer, later versions did. Windows 95 also introduced the concept of plug and play. Just install the new hardware, and it works! Windows 10 (2015) For all of you who think that Windows 95 should sit atop our list for its profound cultural impact absolutely not. Windows 10 still commands over 58 percent of the worldwide market, even though its staring down the end of support in October 2025. Consumers still love it, and Windows 10 still offers the most modern, attractive, and cohesive interface in existence. Windows 10: it just makes you want to sit down and Start. Mark Hachman / Foundry Yes, Windows 10 introduced the redesigned Start menu, with the bright, bold, adjustable Live Tiles that could be pushed around like a magic square puzzle to create the arrangement you wanted. But for me, its the little things youve forgotten about. Sure, Windows 10 requires a license, but it was a free upgrade, and yours for life. In 2019, the free Windows Security/Windows Defender became so good that you could stop paying for antivirus software. And hello, Windows Hello? Biometric identification basically spelled the end of the password, and who doesnt want that? Even Microsoft Edge became good enough that you didnt need to rush out and replace it with Google Chrome. Windows 10 became the foundation of an ecosystem of Windows devices that all ran on a common platform. Sure, Windows Phones a cult classic to this day died due to lack of apps. Windows Mixed Reality never even started taking off. On the PC, though, Windows 10 was welcoming, personable, and very much yours. Windows was Cortanas Jen Taylor, cheerily offering to help. Windows Spotlight, the Xbox app, the Start menu: the world was bright, the world was hopeful, and your modern PC wanted you to use it. Windows was never better than this. Everyones talking about Severance, that twisty, creepy Apple TV+ thriller starring Adam Scottexcept you. Feeling left out? Theres still time to catch up, and you can do it for free. Unlike some streaming services, Apple TV+ offers a variety of free trials, including one option that spans a full three months. Students can also grab free Apple TV+ access, and theres even a mobile carrier that offers Apple TV+ as a freebie, provided youre signed up for the right service plan. So whether you want to see what the fuss is about with Severance, or youre itching to check out a new show like The Studio, the buzzy behind-the-scenes-of-Hollywood series with Seth Rogan, you can stream entire seasons of Apple TV+ shows without paying a dime. Heres how. Grab a 7-day free trial of Apple TV+ The easiest way to get a free taste of Apple TV+ is to simply visit the services website. Once there, you can sign up for a free week of Apple TV+, provided youre a new subscriber. Just go to the Apple TV+ webpage and click the Accept Free Trial button. Keep in mind that you will need to submit a payment method, and once your free week is up, youll be charged $9.99 for the next month of streaming. If you dont want to pay up, be sure to cancel before your 7-day trial expires. Get three months of free Apple TV+ after buying an Apple device Want more than just a free week of Apple TV+? If you buy the right Apple product, you can get a full three months of Apple TV+, perfect for taking a deep dive into Apples streaming catalog. To scoop up three free months of Apple TV+, youll need to buy a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, or Mac. After youve made your purchase, open the TV app on a device connected to your iCloud account, and youll be prompted to claim your three-month Apple TV+ trial. Again, dont forget to cancel before your three months are up, or else youll be charged $9.99 a month thereafter. Get one month of free Apple TV+ with an Apple One subscription Not quite ready to shell out for a new iPhone or Mac? Theres another way to nab an Apple TV+ free trial. Apple One offers a bundle of Apple subscription services, including iCloud+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and Apple TV+. Sign up for a one-month free trial of Apple One and youll get a months worth of free Apple TV+ along with the other bundled Apple services. Get free Apple TV+ access as a student Qualified students can score free Apple TV+ through an Apple Music subscription plan, whichfor studentsincludes free access to Apples streaming shows. Apple Music offers a one-month free trial for students, followed by a discounted $5.99/month charge, and free Apple TV+ is part of the deal. Just visit this web page to get startedand yes, you must submit student credentials to claim the offer. Get free Apple TV+ from T-Mobile Are you a T-Mobile subscriber? If so, good news: You can grab six months or more of free Apple TV+ from the carrier, provided youre subscribed to the right plan. For six months of free Apple TV+, youll need to be signed up T-Mobiles Go5G or Sprint ONE plans. Got Sprint MAX? Then you can get a year of free Apple TV+ from T-Mobile. And if youre a Go5GPlus, Magenta MAX, Magenta Plus, Magenta MAX Welcome, Magenta Amplified, ONE Amplified, or ONE Plus subscriber, you get free Apple TV+ as an ongoing benefit. To add free Apple TV+ to your T-Mobile plan, sign in to your T-Mobile account and claim the Apple TV+ offer. Get free Apple TV+ from Comcast Finally, you can get freeor next to freeApple TV+ from Comcast as an Xfinity Internet subscriber. By opting for Comcasts StreamSaver add-on, you can get Peacock with ads, Netflix Basic with ads, and Apple TV+ for $15 a month. Considering that those three services combined normally cost $25.97 a month, youre essentially getting Apple TV+ for free. Another option is to go with Comcasts NOW StreamSaver plan, which includes more than 125 streaming channels; plus, Peacock with ads, Netflix Basic with ads, and Apple TV+ for $30 a month, good for a steep discount. Get Apple TV+ for a steep discount (for a limited time) If none of the free Apple TV+ deals is open to you, theres one more thing you can try, but youll have to act fast. Apple is offering Apple TV+ for just $2.99 a month for three months. The discount is available to new and returning customers, but the offer ends April 24, 2025, so dont wait too long. Updated April 8, 2025 with details about Apples latest Apple TV+ discount. By Abraham Gutman, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS) It was an offer almost too good to be true: Register to vote in Pennsylvania and sign a petition in support of the First and Second Amendments ahead of the 2024 presidential election, and get a $100 check from the richest person on Earth. Singer Sean Kingston makes on appearance at MTV Studios in Times Square for a taping of MTV's Total Request Live, Friday Nov. 2, 2007 in New York. The show aired on Nov. 7, 2007. (AP Photo/Peter Kramer) ASSOCIATED PRESS By Mickayla Miller, LNP A Sean Kingston concert slated for April 10 at the Village Nightclub has been canceled after Kingston and his mother were found guilty of fraud on March 28. Kingston has been ordered to be on house arrest until hes sentenced on July 11. Due to uncertainties over whether Kingston can legally perform, the Village Nightclubs general manager Rich Ruoff decided to cancel the event Friday afternoon. Those who bought tickets to the show will be refunded via their original payment method. Its a first for me, says Rich Ruoff, general manager at the Village Nightclub. Ruoff has organized thousands of concerts in his more than 40-year tenure. Kingston and his mother, Janice Turner, were accused of defrauding multiple businesses, including a luxury bed company, a luxury microLED TV company and a jewelry business, among others, according to media reports. They were said to have had companies deliver products to them before paying, leveraging Kingstons celebrity status. Kingston and his mother would then try to pay through fraudulent and worthless wire transfers, according to the initial criminal complaint. After his conviction, the Wild West Music Fest a music festival from April 4-6 in Maricopa, Arizona dropped Kingston and replaced his performance slot with rapper Baby Bash. FILE - In this Nov. 13, 2015 file photo, Costa Rican 1987 Nobel peace laureate and former president of Costa Rica, Oscar Arias, looks at the media during the opening ceremony of the XV World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates at the University in Barcelona, Spain. Arias said his visa was revoked by the U.S. State Department earlier this week. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez, File) AP The former president of Costa Rican and Nobel Peace Prize winner Oscar Arias said his visa was revoked by the U.S. State Department earlier this week. Arias, 84, said that U.S. embassy workers told him it was being revoked due to his close ties with the Chinese government. Arias, however, had criticized President Trump on social media in February, saying he behaves like a Roman emperor, and said he believes that might have had something to do with the revocation. I have to imagine that my criticism of President Trump might have played a role. The president has a personality that is not open to criticism or disagreements., Arias said in an interview with NPR. It seems to me that nowadays, one shouldnt dare to criticize the U.S. because you could be punished," he said. Arias was president of Costa Rica from 1986 to 1990 and then again from 2006 to 2010. Costa Rica formalized relations with China in 2007. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for helping to broker peace in Central America during the 1980s. An Amtrak train arrives at the Harrisburg Transportation Center. An Amtrak train struck and killed three people who were on the tracks in Bucks County on Thursday, police said. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com An Amtrak train struck and killed three people who were on the tracks in Bucks County on Thursday, police said. The incident occurred at about 6:10 p.m. in Bristol. The train was traveling from Boston to Richmond, Virginia. All three people who were killed were family members, police said. Amtrak spokesperson Kelly Just told the Philadelphia Inquirer that the train was traveling at 85 mph. Unfortunately, 3 people were struck and killed on the tracks by an Amtrak Acela train earlier this evening, Ralph DiGuiseppe III, mayor of Bristol Borough, said to the Inquirer in an email. No names or ages have been confirmed. No one on board the train was injured. SEPTA officials said on social media that service was suspended until further notice It is the second fatal incident involving an Amtrak train in Bucks County in two days. On Wednesday, a train struck and killed someone near the Cornwells Heights Station in Bensalem. Suhail Shafi of Mechanicsburg holds a sign during the news conference. Elected officials hold a news conference at the state Capitol to address ICE detaining five members of the Dauphin County Bhutanese community. March 18, 2025. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com After three weeks with scant information on why it detained six Bhutanese refugees living in Dauphin County, ICE has finally released details on why they were deported, and they are not pretty. According to court records, one man had been convicted of raping a minor. Another of attempted strangulation and yet another of simple assault and making terroristic threats. ICE said all were under court orders to leave the country. News / National by Staff reporter The GSM Association (GSMA), a leading global organisation in the telecommunications sector, has appointed Zimbabwean-born Ralph Mupita, the President and CEO of MTN Group, as the deputy chair of its board.Mupita follows in the footsteps of the late Sifiso Dabengwa, another Zimbabwean who previously led MTN, Africa's largest mobile network, and was a pioneer in South Africa's telecom industry.Originally from Mutare, Mupita is an engineer, corporate executive, and businessman. His tenure as deputy chair will run until 2026, during which he will support the board and chair in steering the organisation's strategic direction."This appointment is a great honour as it comes at a time of rapid developments in technology and increasing digital adoption across Africa," Mupita said. He emphasized the role of mobile technology in addressing societal challenges and unlocking Africa's potential, ensuring inclusivity in the journey towards a connected future.Mupita expressed his commitment to GSMA's vision, highlighting the organisation's crucial role in representing the global mobile ecosystem. "Together, we will continue to drive innovation and positive change in the industry," he added.GSMA Director General Vivek Badrinath congratulated Mupita on his appointment, noting his extensive experience and leadership as valuable assets to the board. His experience will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of our industry. I look forward to working closely with him and the board, Badrinath stated.Mupita has led MTN Group as President and CEO since September 2020, following his tenure as the company's CFO from April 2017. Prior to joining MTN, he served as CEO of Old Mutual Emerging Markets. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Engineering and an MBA from the University of Cape Town, along with completion of the General Management Program at Harvard Business School.GSMA represents the interests of mobile network operators worldwide and plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of global telecommunications. Eric Persson is the End Boss in Doug Polk's $100K Online Poker Challenge Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S. Copy link Doug Polk's chances of winning his $100,000-in-a-month online poker challenge comes down to one final match on Saturday against the trash-talking Eric Persson. The YouTube and Twitch livestream will begin at 11 a.m. CT on ClubWPT Gold, and it is the last battle in what has been an up-and-down 30-day "Code Doug" challenge. Persson will step into the pseudo-"End Boss" role for Polk, who appeared to have a slim to none shot at achieving his goal just a few days ago. But the near-$50,000 deficit transformed into a five-figure profit last week, leaving open the possibility for victory. Loudmouth Poker Player Wants a Piece of Heads-Up Legend Polk lost $5,700 on Thursday, the 26th session of the challenge, bringing his cumulative profits down to $18,652. He won't stream on Friday, and must win exactly $81,348 on Saturday to hit the $100k mark before time expires. The Lodge Card Club co-owner's odds of winning the challenge have grown recently, but there are a couple of obstacles in his way, namely a motivated opponent who likely will only play for a couple of hours. Polk will need to win just over four $20,000 buy-ins at $50/$100 no-limit hold'em stakes in a short period of time. The good news for Polk is that his opponent is heavily bankrolled and plays fast, loose, and aggressive. But variance will come into play in what is expected to be a relatively quick match. One brutal bad beat or two could end his chances of not only failing to win the "Code Doug" challenge, but also finishing the challenge in the red. Persson, owner of Maverick Gaming, has been a regular for years in some of the highest stakes cash games in the world. He's considered a recreational player by top pros, but he does have some heads-up experience, most notably the 2022 PokerGO Tour Heads-Up Showdown where he infamously taunted, beat, and flipped the bird to Phil Hellmuth. Persson introduced himself to the mainstream poker world during that heads-up tournament. He's since appeared on shows such as Hustler Casino Live and High Stakes Poker, and he's never been one to shy away from confrontation at the table or opportunities to talk trash with his opponents. Prior to Saturday's match, Persson was in regular form popping off to his upcoming opponent. "I promise you one thing, there is no scenario where Doug Polk is going to win the $100k challenge. I am going to beat his a**, or I'm going to get my a** beat trying," Persson said in a brief video on X. The loser of the heads-up match will face a punishment in the form of being forced to drive a beater car for a month this summer. Polk, the newest ClubWPT Gold ambassador, has even more at stake as he's vowed to shave his head or dye it blond if he doesn't finish the challenge in the black. He's also giving away $100,000 to those who sign-up on the sweepstakes poker site using "Code Doug," $90,000 disbursed evenly and $10,000 to one winner. Polk will spend Friday afternoon playing some live heads-up poker instead of online at ClubWPT Gold. He'll compete in a $50/$100 match at the Texas poker club he co-owns, The Lodge Card Club, against Taras, a regular in the big games on Poker at the Lodge. The match begins at 3 p.m. CT. Should Polk win the $100k challenge, it would go down as one of the largest comebacks in publicly viewed online poker bankroll challenge history, but not even close to the biggest. That title goes to Phil Galfond, who trailed "Venividi1993" by nearly $1 million at one point in a 25,000-hand pot-limit Omaha contest in 2019-2020 dubbed the "Galfond Challenge," before rallying to win. Code Doug Challenge Daily Results Session Date Win/Loss Overall 1 3/4 $3,840.00 $3,840.00 2 3/5 ($2,690.00) $1,150.00 3 3/6 ($10,473.00) ($9,323.00) 4 3/7 $93.00 ($9,230.00) 5 3/8 $4,024.00 ($5,206.00) 6 3/9 $3,287.00 ($1,919.00) 7 3/10 $3,460.00 $1,541.00 8 3/11 $2,270.00 $3,811.00 9 3/12 $8,450.00 $12,261.00 10 3/13 $1,570.00 $13,831.00 11 3/14 $6,330.00 $20,161.00 12 3/15 ($36,480.00) ($16,319.00) 13 3/16 ($13,560.00) ($29,879.00) 14 3/17 $470.00 ($29,409.00) 15 3/19 ($6,890.00) ($36,299.00) 16 3/20 ($1,920.00) ($38,219.00) 17 3/21 ($10,184.00) ($48,403.00) 18 3/22 $9,164.00 ($39,239.00) 19 3/23 $1,910.00 ($37,329.00) 20 3/24 $12,830.00 ($24,499.00) 21 3/28 $7,030.00 ($17,469.00) 22 3/30 $6,410.00 ($11,059.00) 23 3/31 $11,590.00 $531.00 24 4/1 $1,521.00 $2,052.00 25 4/2 $22,300.00 $24,352.00 26 4/3 ($5,700.00) $18,652.00 Share this article Florida Man Allegedly Laundered $800K from Illegal Poker Games He Hosted Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S. Copy link Police have accused Florida poker pro James Kerr, 39, of running a "big time" illegal gambling operation where he made, and hid, "hundreds of thousands of dollars." Tampa Bay's Fox 13 station's reporting included a video interview with Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, who explained the allegations against the well-known local poker player. Poker Pro in Hot Water Kerr, who has nearly $700,000 in live tournament cashes, has been under investigation for quite some time, according to Fox 13. Sheriff Judd shared with reporters details about the alleged crimes. "We learned that James Kerr was running a big time operation and making hundreds of thousands of dollars," the sheriff stated. Kerr allegedly made approximately $800,000 from illegal poker games he hosted in Winter Haven, a city about an hour south of Orlando. He faces money laundering charges for, as police claim, being the ring leader behind an illegal gambling house. Police also said there could be additional charges filed. The poker player allegedly hosted illegal poker games from multiple locations, but the main spot was from inside a former law office. Authorities received a tip on Kerr and began investigating with the use of undercover detectives infiltrating the poker games. Kerr is accused of hiding hundreds of thousands of dollars made from gambling nights he hosted between 2021 and 2023. "Now keep in mind he's also a professional gambler," Sheriff Judd said. "If you search him up online, you'll see he's won a lot of money legally gambling, but guess what, he became greedy and decided to set up his own illegal game. That's when he got arrested." Kerr does have a lengthy history of cashes in poker tournaments, and he's known to compete frequently in cash games in Florida. In 2021, he won the $1,700 buy-in Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Poker Classic Main Event for $228,038, a career-best score. He took down a $2,500 buy-in tournament at the same casino in September 2024 for $111,294. Investigators claim to have discovered that Kerr had been making multiple transactions among different bank accounts. He appeared in court on Tuesday, and his lawyer argued the state didn't have probable cause to charge the poker pro with a crime. A judge, however, imposed a $60,000 bail and ordered Kerr to wear a GPS monitor should he post bail. James Kerr Wraps Massive SHR Tampa Series With Main Event Chop Share this article News / National by Staff reporter Musician Hwindi President has accused Tendai Kusosa, a Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) official, of unjustly confiscating his vehicle despite having all the required paperwork. According to Hwindi President, he legally crossed the border with his car, and there was no wrongdoing on his part.He claims that after filing an appeal, ZIMRA ignored him for three months before informing him that his Temporary Import Permit (TIP) had expired. To reclaim his vehicle, he was then asked to pay nearly $5,000 in fines, storage fees, and duties. However, he alleges that instead of returning the car, ZIMRA officials shared it among themselves.Hwindi President argues that the TIP only expired because ZIMRA had locked up his car, preventing him from taking it back to South Africa in time. Now left without his vehicle while others allegedly drive it, he has expressed frustration, feeling powerless and mistreated.Taking to Facebook, Hwindi President posted a fiery message directed at Tendai Kusosa and ZIMRA. He questioned why his car was seized in the first place if his paperwork was in order and why it was allegedly taken for personal use by officials. He vowed to seek revenge, insisting that the issue is far from over.His post, written in Shona, expressed deep anger, stating, "Kutogovana zvavo mota yangu? Ko kana yanga isiri kudiwa muno, madii kuipisa zvenyu? (So they shared my car? If it was not wanted here, why not just destroy it?)"Hwindi President further lamented that his attempts to appeal were ignored, and by the time ZIMRA responded, he was told that his TIP had expired, forcing him to pay hefty fees to recover his car. He questioned why he was being penalized for something beyond his control and accused ZIMRA of mistreating citizens as if they were enslaved in their own country.He ended his post with a chilling warning, stating, "I'm going to do anything to revenge this. I mean anything chandokwanisa (anything within my power)."ZIMRA has not yet responded to the allegations. The controversy has sparked widespread debate online, with many expressing concern over alleged corruption and abuse of power by customs officials. The matter remains unresolved, and Hwindi President insists he will not back down until justice is served. Aiken, SC (29801) Today A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible early. Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 71F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible early. Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 71F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. An informational meeting for parents and stakeholders in the Berkeley County School District was March 29 in Goose Creek. Charleston, SC (29403) Today Tropical storm conditions possible. Partly cloudy this evening followed by mostly cloudy skies and a few showers after midnight. Low near 75F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Tropical storm conditions possible. Partly cloudy this evening followed by mostly cloudy skies and a few showers after midnight. Low near 75F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%. The TSX Stock Id Buy Now if Youre Worried About a U.S. Recession When it comes to dividend stocks that can be as predictable as the sunset, then this one stands out. The post The TSX Stock Id Buy Now if Youre Worried About a U.S. Recession appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada. Greenville, SC (29601) Today Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 71F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 71F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Mount Pleasant, SC (29464) Today Tropical storm conditions possible. Partly cloudy this evening followed by increasing clouds with showers developing after midnight. Low around 75F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Tropical storm conditions possible. Partly cloudy this evening followed by increasing clouds with showers developing after midnight. Low around 75F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Charleston, SC (29403) Today Tropical storm conditions possible. Cloudy with a few showers. Low around 75F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Tropical storm conditions possible. Cloudy with a few showers. Low around 75F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%. Reporter Christian spent six years in Myrtle Beach before moving to the Upstate. When he's not working, he's reading a book, making a mess in the kitchen or running around Spartanburg. PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-05 01:00:33 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 582 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 /AI/ML Innovations Inc. ("AIML" or the "Company") (CSE:AIML)(OTCQB:AIMLF)(FWB:42FB) is pleased to announce that it intends to complete a non-brokered private placement offering of up to 40,000,000 units ("Units") at a price of $0.05 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $2,000,000 ("Private Placement").Each Unit is comprised of one Common Share and one warrant which will be exercisable into one (1) Common Share of the Company (each a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will have a term of two (2) years and will entitle the holder to purchase one (1) Common Share at a price of $0.15 per Common Share following the closing date, subject to the Company's right to accelerate expiry upon 30 days' notice if the shares trade at $0.30 for a 10-day period. The Common Shares and Warrants comprising the Units will be subject to a four-month and one day hold period in accordance with the policies of the CSE and applicable securities legislation.The Company intends to use net proceeds of the Private Placement for working capital requirements.The Company will pay a finder's fee to qualified finders who assist in selling the Units, in cash or securities or a combination of both, as permitted by CSE policy and applicable securities laws.The Private Placement is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including approval from the Canadian Securities Exchange.For more information about AIML:For detailed information please see AIML's website or the Company's filed documents at www.sedarplus.ca For further information, contact: Blake Fallis at (778) 405-0882 or info@ aiml-innovations.com About AI/ML Innovations Inc.https://aiml-innovations.com/ AIML Innovations Inc. has realigned its business operations to capitalize on the burgeoning fields of artificial intelligence: (AI) and machine learning (ML), with an initial investment focus on emerging digital health and wellbeing companies that leverage AI, ML, cloud computing and digital platforms to drive transformative healthcare management solutions and precision support delivery across the health continuum. Through its 100% owned Quantum Sciences Ltd., NeuralCloud Solutions Inc. and AI Rx Inc., its strategic partnership with Health Gauge Inc. (95.2% owned by AIML), and other planned accretive investments, the Company continues to capitalize on expanding growth areas, to the benefit of all the Company's stakeholders. AIML's shares are traded on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol "AIML", the OTCQB Venture Market under "AIMLF", and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under "42FB".On behalf of the Board of Directors:Paul Duffy, Executive ChairmanNeither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Forward Looking Statements - Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including with respect to the completion of the Private Placement. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of AIML, including the timing and nature of all deliverables associated with the Private Placement and whether the Private Placement will be completed as currently proposed or at all. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.SOURCE: AI/ML Innovations, Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-05 00:35:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 561 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CORAL SPRINGS, FL / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / As homeowners and businesses strive for cleaner indoor air, many wonder: What is the difference between duct sanitization and duct cleaning? All Year Cooling, a trusted leader in HVAC services for over 50 years, is here to clarify this distinction and help customers make informed decisions about their air quality.Understanding Duct CleaningDuct cleaning removes dust, debris, and allergens from the air ducts that circulate air throughout a home or building. This process typically involves using specialized vacuum equipment, brushes, and blowers to extract contaminants from the ductwork. Tommy Smith, the president of All Year Cooling, notes that duct cleaning is essential for maintaining proper airflow and preventing the buildup of allergens that can exacerbate respiratory issues."Routine duct cleaning can improve HVAC efficiency and extend the system's lifespan, but it doesn't necessarily eliminate bacteria, mold, or viruses that may linger in the ducts," Smith explains. "This is where duct sanitization comes in." What is Duct Sanitization?Duct sanitization goes a step beyond cleaning by eliminating harmful microorganisms that may be present in the duct system. This process involves using EPA-approved disinfectants to kill bacteria, mold spores, and viruses, ensuring that the air circulating through the ducts is clean and sanitized.All Year Cooling employs advanced sanitization methods to protect homeowners against airborne contaminants. "With duct sanitization, we don't just remove dust; we actively neutralize potential health threats that may be lurking in your HVAC system," says Smith.Key Differences Between Duct Cleaning and Duct SanitizationScope of Service - Duct cleaning removes physical debris like dust and pet dander, while duct sanitization eliminates bacteria, mold, and viruses.Air Quality Impact - Cleaning can improve airflow and reduce allergens, whereas sanitization enhances overall air hygiene and prevents the spread of illness.Frequency - Experts recommend duct cleaning every 3-5 years, but sanitization may be necessary more often, especially for households with allergies, pets, or individuals with respiratory conditions.Products Used - While cleaning involves physically removing debris, sanitization uses EPA-certified antimicrobial agents to disinfect the ducts.Long-Term Benefits - Sanitization provides longer-lasting protection against microbial growth than cleaning alone.When Should You Sanitize Your Ducts?Smith recommends duct sanitization in the following situations:After a mold infestation or water damage.If household members suffer from frequent respiratory illnesses or allergies.When moving into a new home or after extensive renovations.If unusual odours persist despite regular duct cleaning.Why Choose All Year Cooling for Duct Services?For over five decades, All Year Cooling has been a trusted provider of high-quality air conditioning and duct services in South Florida. With over 350,000 satisfied customers and a reputation for excellence, the company ensures that every service is performed with precision and care.All Year Cooling offers free AC evaluations, allowing customers to assess their ductwork and determine whether cleaning or sanitization is needed. Their experienced team uses state-of-the-art equipment and EPA-approved solutions to provide the most effective results."The air we breathe impacts our health every day," says Smith. "Our goal is to educate homeowners about the benefits of both cleaning and sanitization so they can make the best choice for their family's well-being." For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact All Year Cooling today.Call Us: 888.204.5554Email Us: info@ allyearac.com SOURCE: All Year Cooling PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 13:33:23 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 660 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / Leading securities law firmBleichmar Fonti & Auld LLPannounces that a lawsuit has been filed against Atkore Inc. (NYSE:ATKR) and certain of the Company's senior executives for potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in Atkore, you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/atkore-inc Investors have until April 23, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors who purchased Atkore stock. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and is captioned Westchester Putnam Counties Heavy & Highway Laborers Local 60 Benefits Fund v. Atkore Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-01851.Why was Atkore Sued for Securities Fraud?Atkore manufactures electrical, safety, and infrastructure products including polyvinyl chloride water and electrical conduit pipes ("PVC Pipe"). During the COVID-19 pandemic, shipping costs rose dramatically, leaving foreign PVC Pipe manufacturers unable to profitably sell PVC Pipe in the U.S. As shipping prices returned to normal when the pandemic subsided in 2022, foreign PVC Pipe manufacturers gradually returned to the U.S. market. Shortly thereafter, in late 2022, the price of PVC Pipe began to decline.As alleged, Atkore repeatedly misrepresented that post-pandemic PVC Pipe price declines were the result of "pricing normalization" that reflected "competitive dynamics" and assured investors that the Company would continue to successfully compete in the post-COVID-19 market.On July 24, 2024, an activist investor named ManBear published a report titled "Pipe Price Fixing" which accused Atkore and three of its competitors of using the commodity pricing service OPIS to coordinate pricing actions and fix the price of PVC Pipe.In truth, it is alleged that Atkore engaged in an anticompetitive price-fixing scheme that artificially inflated the price of PVC Pipes.The Stock Declines as the Truth is RevealedOn February 4, 2025, Atkore announced disappointing earnings and reduced guidance, disclosing that the "plastic pipe and conduit product category declined mid-single digits during the quarter" compared to "high single digits in the prior year," and largely attributed the guidance reduction to Atkore's PVC Pipe business, stating, "roughly $75 million or 3/4 [of the guidance reduction] is on the PVC side." This news caused the price of Atkore stock to decline nearly 20%, from $79.72 per share on February 3, 2025 to $64.13 per share on February 4, 2025.On February 14, 2025, Atkore disclosed that it received a grand jury subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice Antitrust Division seeking the "production of documents relating to the pricing of the Company's PVC pipe and conduit products." Click here if you suffered losses: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/atkore-inc What Can You Do?If you invested in Atkore you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm.All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Submit your information by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212-789-3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It was named among the Top 5 plaintiff law firms by ISS SCAS in 2023 and its attorneys have been named Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar by Law360 and SuperLawyers by Thompson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors, as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar, Fonti, & Auld LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 02:10:21 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 559 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 New Programs Will Launch In Time For March of the Living EventOSWIECIM, PL / ACCESS Newswire / April 3, 2025 / The Auschwitz Jewish Center (AJC) is bringing kosher food back to this once-flourishing Jewish community and adding prayer services to its program in time for the annual March of the Living pilgrimage of tens of thousands of Jews from around the world starting April 23rd.In addition to providing spiritual services, access to the synagogue for prayer and reflection, and guided tours of its museum, the Auschwitz Jewish Center's kosher concession will offer shelf-stable packaged kosher meals for purchase starting just after Passover. The meals will be available for a nominal fee, and visitors wishing to reserve meals, participate in tours, or attend prayer services can contact the center via https://ajcfus.org/programs/#contact-popup Before the Holocaust, Oswiecim was home to a thriving Jewish community, which made up more than half of the population and boasted over 30 synagogues. Today, the Auschwitz Jewish Center is the only surviving synagogue from that time and serves as both a museum and an educational center dedicated to fighting hatred and bigotry. Since its reopening, the center has welcomed over 800,000 visitors eager to learn about the Jewish history of Oswiecim. Thousands of students, educators, first responders, and military personnel have participated in its impactful educational programs, which teach the lessons of the Holocaust from the very site of Auschwitz, the most iconic symbol of Nazi death and destruction."As more and more visitors come to Auschwitz to learn about the Holocaust, many also choose to visit the Auschwitz Jewish Center," said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Chairman Simon Bergson. "Opening the city's first post-war kosher concession was a natural step, ensuring that Kosher-observant visitors could pray or reflect in our synagogue while also enjoying a kosher meal." "It is remarkable that nearly a century ago, Oswiecim was more than half Jewish, home to over 30 synagogues, and had kosher butchers, bakeries, and eateries. Opening the town's first post-war kosher concession is a powerful reminder of the resilience of Jewish life in this city. Our responsibility is to honor the legacy of the Jewish community that once thrived here and provide a space where visitors can learn about the past and experience a piece of that living history. This concession is more than just a place to eat - it symbolizes continuity, resilience, and hope for future generations," said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Director General Jack Simony.The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to harnessing the lessons learned from Holocaust the to combat hatred and bigotry through educational programs and by providing direct humanitarian aid to victims of mass atrocities. It supports survivors of genocides and other tragedies, including Ukrainian refugees and those impacted by Hamas's October 7 attacks. The Foundation maintains the Auschwitz Jewish Center, the last remaining synagogue in Oswiecim (Auschwitz), and serves as the primary institution dedicated to preserving the memory of the town's Jewish community while addressing hate. To date, over 800,000 people have visited the center, and more than 10,000 individuals-such as first responders, military personnel, students, and educators-have taken part in its educational initiatives on tolerance and the Holocaust. For more information, visit: https://ajcfus.org/ CONTACT:Joshua Steinreich Jsteinreich@ scompr.com SOURCE: Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 18:25:47 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 441 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / Farmers Bank & Trust recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to Farmers Bank & Trust.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On October 25, 2024, Farmers Bank & Trust experienced unauthorized access to an employee's email account. Upon detection, Farmers Bank & Trust immediately launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cyber security professionals to determine the nature and scope of the incident. Following a detailed forensic investigation and manual review, on February 17, 2025, Farmers Bank & Trust determined that certain files containing personal information may have been accessed or acquired.Upon information and belief, the following types of sensitive personal information may have been compromised: full name, Social Security number, financial information, email address, and driver's license. Farmers Bank & Trust conducted a comprehensive review to determine the specific information affected and began sending notification letters to impacted individuals on March 17, 2025. A public notice was filed with the Massachusetts Attorney General on the same day. Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Farmers Bank & Trust, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. If you have received a notice about the data breach, you may be entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 15:00:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 596 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Guided by thought leaders and driven by data, Helium SEO powers measurable client growth through paid advertising and search engine optimization services.CINCINNATI, OHIO / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / In the digital age, being findable online is as crucial as it is challenging, especially with the influx of content from the generative AI boom. An internet presence can be the difference between a company reaching potential consumers from the top of a search engine or competitors reaching them first. Helium SEO StaffData-driven digital marketing agency Helium SEO provides a competitive edge in the online space. With several digital offerings, namely paid advertising and search engine optimization (SEO), Helium guides clients through everything from search engine marketing (SEM) and pay-per-click to social media advertising, website design, and conversion rate optimization. For one client, Helium increased its number of keywords by 697% and site traffic by over 400%."Understanding SEO is a superpower. Our planning, preparation, and research focuses on helping clients' businesses grow," says Scott Sutter, director of sales. " The ability to create attention in the online space and turn that attention into revenue is invaluable." Many clients do not know exactly what they are looking for when they reach out to Helium. Sutter's team collaborates with clients to define specific and sophisticated goals and discuss how those will affect the company's growth trajectory. Once the exact outcome is determined, the team can determine which tool set will work best."I want to determine the numbers behind the success that you're looking for," says Sutter. "If that means a company wants to grow by 20% in 2025, and to do so they need 200 new leads of which 30% need to be closed, we'll show them exactly how to use SEO and paid ads to get there." Leading the WayThe founders of Helium, Tim Warren, CEO, and Paul DeMott, chief technology officer, are published in high-profile publications upwards of 10 times a year, where they share progressive SEO and SEM strategies. Warren and DeMott are entrenched in the digital marketing space, speaking to subject-matter experts, embracing continual education, and reading new data such as Google patents.This leadership translates to Helium's cutting-edge technology. The team has created an entire database of websites for internal tests to measure the effectiveness of different aspects of digital marketing, such as link building, content, entity SEO, branded search, and more. The team has also created a dashboard that provides clients with complete visibility into the backlinks Helium is building. Part of Helium's technology focus is its AI content creation tool, Noble. Unlike other SEO tools that boast AI capability, Noble crawls results in real time, builds the SEO variable strategy, and creates high-quality renders of the copy needed to rank for the target keyword in minutes.Just as important as Helium's technologies are the people behind them. Embracing responsive communication, the team responds to client queries within eight business hours. Rather than placing clients in a binding 12-month contract, Helium offers a month-to-month engagement, which encourages accountability and a consistent quality of work. Helium is eyeing a $100 million valuation over the next 10 years, and part of its plan is strategic acquisition. The team is focused on finding agencies that complement Helium's capabilities and finding ways to acquire or partner with them."We want the companies we work with to know we're in the trenches with them," says Sutter. "We have the tough conversations. We celebrate their successes. That's what we believe extraordinary service looks like." Contact InformationScott SutterDirector of Sales 513-502-6636SOURCE: Helium SEO PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 15:00:19 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 576 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Strong global expansion, industry recognition, and team growth mark a standout year.BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / International Citizens Insurance (ICI), a leading provider of international health, life, and travel insurance, announced another record-breaking year in 2024. The company experienced a 65% increase in global life insurance sales and more than 42% growth in its group global benefits business. International Citizens Insurance Logo - Global Health, Life, and Travel Insurance International Citizens Insurance Logo"Our growth - especially in the group segment, which has surged over 450% in just two years - is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team," said Joe Cronin, President of ICI. "We remain committed to being the trusted partner for global citizens, expatriates, and international organizations seeking tailored insurance solutions." Expanding our Global TeamTo support this expansion, ICI significantly grew its team across marketing, sales, and operations. "We're proud to welcome new team members who are passionate about our mission," added Cronin. "Their contributions help us ensure that every international individual and organization we serve feels protected and supported throughout their journey." Industry RecognitionIn recognition of its outstanding performance, ICI received multiple industry accolades in 2024:Cigna Global named ICI the Top Producing Broker, Americas - Global Individual Health for the third consecutive year.GeoBlue honored ICI with the 2024 Sales Excellence Award for exceptional growth and client service."We were honored to be recognized again by Cigna Healthcare at their Global Broker Advisory Council in Hawaii," said Cronin. "These awards underscore the strength of our partnerships and our unwavering focus on delivering exceptional healthcare solutions to globally mobile clients. We look forward to building on this momentum in 2025."Looking Forward to the New YearBuilding on its momentum, International Citizens Insurance is focused on continued expansion in 2025. The company will enhance its product offerings and invest further in customer experience and retention. Key strategic priorities for the year ahead include:1. Personalized, Flexible Global BenefitsTo meet the evolving needs of a diverse, international workforce, ICI will expand its range of customizable insurance solutions.Why it matters: Today's employees expect choice and flexibility, while employers seek competitive benefits to attract and retain global talent.2. Technology-Driven Client ExperienceICI will continue to improve its digital platforms, streamlining everything from plan selection to claims processing.Why it matters: Globally mobile clients and HR teams demand a seamless, digital-first experience - anytime, anywhere.3. Enhanced Focus on Duty of Care and Client ServiceWith international mobility on the rise, ICI is strengthening its core offerings and support services.Why it matters: Organizations must demonstrate they are focused on customer support and providing equitable benefits to their global teams while complying with regional regulations.About International Citizens InsuranceInternational Citizens Insurance (ICI) is the trusted partner for global citizens, expatriates, and organizations seeking comprehensive, personalized insurance solutions. Specializing in health, life, and travel insurance, we provide tailored coverage designed to meet the unique needs of individuals and businesses navigating life abroad. Our team of dedicated experts offers reliable guidance and unwavering support, ensuring our clients feel confident, prepared, and fully protected. With a customer-first approach, extensive global reach, and a wide range of high-quality coverage options, ICI stands apart as the premier choice for those who value peace of mind while exploring the world.Contact InformationJoe CroninPresidentmedia@ internationalinsurance.com 617-500-6738Andrew BlombergVice President, Global Group Benefitsandrew@ internationalinsurance.com (339) 221-5190SOURCE: International Citizens Insurance PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 18:45:40 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 544 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / Lyon Management Group, Inc. which does business as Lyon Living, recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal and protected health data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal and protected health information entrusted to Lyon Living.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?Lyon Living recently became aware of a security incident on its IT network. Upon detection, Lyon Living launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cybersecurity experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to sensitive personal information between March 14 and March 15, 2024. Lyon Living conducted a comprehensive review of the impacted data to determine what information was compromised and identified affected individuals. Lyon Living identified persons whose sensitive data was included in the impacted data.Upon information and belief, the following types of sensitive personaland protected health information may have been compromised:name, Social Security number, driver's license number, california id card number, tax identification number, passport number, military id number, or other unique id number issued on a government document, account number or credit or debit card number, in combination with any required security code, access code, or password that would permit access to an individual's financial account, medical information, health insurance information, unique biometric data generated from measurements or technical analysis of human body characteristics, such as a fingerprint, retina, or iris image, used to authenticate a specific individual, and genetic data.On March 28, 2025, Lyon Living filed a notice with the Attorney General of California and started sending out notice letters to the impacted individuals.Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Lyon Living, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. If you have received a notice about the data breach, you may be entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP Assailant of Assyrian Celebration Attack Affiliated With ISIS Akitu holiday celebrators carrying a flag for the Assyrians in Iraq. ( AP) Authorities in Duhok, in Iraq's Kurdistan region, announced on Wednesday that the attack carried out by a Syrian national during a Christian celebration in the city was an "act of terrorism." On Tuesday, the attacker infiltrated a gathering of Syriac Christians celebrating the Akitu festival in central Duhok. He then pulled out an axe and attacked a young man, a 70-year-old woman, and a security officer. Videos circulating on local media platforms showed a group of people apprehending the attacker, who was seen making hand gestures and shouting "Islamic State." Shamon Shlimon, the deputy governor of Duhok, stated that initial investigations revealed the attacker was a Syrian national and that given the slogans he shouted, "it is clear that the attack was an act of terrorism." Later, security sources confirmed that the assailant admitted to police that he belonged to a terrorist organization. The Kurdistan Regional Security Council later announced that the attacker was affiliated with an ISIS-linked group. In a press statement, the council said: "While the people of Duhok were celebrating Akitu, an individual holding extremist ISIS ideologies attacked citizens in the market with a sharp weapon." The Kurdistan Regional Presidency condemned the "criminal attack," affirming that it would not tolerate any actions that undermine the culture of coexistence, acceptance, and tolerance. In a statement on Wednesday, the presidency said it was "closely following" the investigation into the "criminal attack" in Duhok, assuring that the perpetrator will face legal consequences. This is the first attack of its kind in Duhok. Chaldeans and Syriacs celebrate Babylonian-Assyrian New Year (Akitu) every April 1. During the recent attack, more than 8,000 people were present, half of whom were from outside the Kurdistan region, according to local reports. The Akitu festival features celebrations, cultural and artistic events, and recreational activities, including traditional dances. PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 18:30:46 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 450 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / St. Joseph's College of Maine recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to St. Joseph's.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On February 20, 2025, St. Joseph's College of Maine became aware of a security incident on its network. Upon detection, St. Joseph's College of Maine launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cybersecurity experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to the network between December 15, 2023, and January 24, 2024, and potentially accessed or acquired certain files containing sensitive personal information. St. Joseph's conducted a comprehensive review of the impacted data to determine what information was compromised and identified affected individuals.Upon information and belief, the following types of sensitive personalinformation may have been compromised:full name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and government-issued IDs.On March 21, 2025, St. Joseph's College of Maine filed a notice of public disclosure and started sending out notice letters to the individuals.Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from St. Joseph's, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. If you have received a notice about the data breach, you may be entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 18:30:50 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 472 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / EVJ, LLC which does business as Storage Durango Blue Diamond, recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal and protected health data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal and protected health information entrusted to Storage Durango.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On August 31, 2024, Storage Durango became aware of a security incident on its internal systems. Upon detection, Storage Durango launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cyber security experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to systems containing personal information between August 8 and August 31, 2024. Storage Durango conducted a comprehensive review of the impacted data to determine what information was compromised and identified affected individuals. On March 25, 2025, Storage Durango identified persons whose sensitive data was included in the impacted data.Upon information and belief, the following types of sensitive personaland protected health information may have been compromised:name, Social Security number, driver's license or state identification number, financial account number, and health insurance policy number. On March 25, 2025, Storage Durango filed a notice with the Vermont Attorney General and started sending out notice letters to the impacted individuals. Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Storage Durango, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. If you have received a notice about the data breach, you may be entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 14:20:08 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1087 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 TRIQ I-IMSIDA IL-GZIRA, MT / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / Raketech (STO:RAKE) - P.L.C. in accordance with Article 57 of the Articles of Association of the Company (the "Articles").NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2025 (the " Meeting ") of Raketech Group Holding p.l.c., company registration number C77421 (the " Company " or " RGH "), will be held on 20 May 2025, at 1 p.m. (CET) at the registered office of the Company at St George's Business Centre, Level 7, St George's Road, St Julian's, STJ 3202, Malta.Attendance and voting To be entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting (and for the Company to be able to determine the number of votes that may be cast), shareholders must be entered in the register of members maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB by no later than 17 April 2025 . Shareholders whose shares are registered in the name of a nominee must temporarily re-register their shares in their own name in the register of members maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB in order to be entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting. Any such registration would also need to be effected by no later than 17 April 2025 . Shareholders must therefore instruct their nominees well in advance thereof. To be entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting, shareholders must notify the Company of their intention to participate by mail to Raketech Group Holding P.L.C. c/o Euroclear Sweden AB, Box 191, SE-10123 Stockholm, Sweden, by phone +46(0)8-401 43 10 (during the office hours of Euroclear Sweden AB) or by email at raketech@ euroclear.comby no later than 11:59 p.m. (CET) on 20 April 2025 . Such notification should include the shareholder's name, personal identification number/company registration number (or similar), address and daytime telephone number, number of shares in the Company, as well as, if applicable, details of proxies. See below for information on the processing of personal data. Proxies A shareholder, who is entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting, is also entitled to appoint one or more proxies to attend and vote on such shareholder's behalf. A proxy does not need to be a shareholder. The appointment of a proxy must be in writing and its form must comply with article 88 of the Articles and:(a) where the shareholder is an individual, be signed by him/her; or(b) where the shareholder is a corporation, be signed by a duly authorised officer of the corporation. A proxy form is available on the Company's website: www.raketech.com/governance/general-meetings . Proxy forms must clearly indicate whether the proxy is to vote as she/he wishes or in accordance with the voting instructions sheet attached to the proxy form. The original signed proxy form and, where the shareholder is a corporation a certificate of registration or similar evidencing the signatory right of the officer signing the proxy form, must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. (CET) on 20 April 2025 by Euroclear Sweden AB at Raketech Group Holding P.L.C., c/o Euroclear Sweden AB, Box 191, SE-10123 Stockholm, Sweden or by email at raketech@ euroclear.com . In default of such timely receipt the proxy will not be treated as valid. Shareholders are, therefore, encouraged to send or deliver their proxy forms (and, if applicable copies of certificates of registration or similar) as soon as possible. Aggregated attendance notifications and proxy data processed by Euroclear Sweden AB must be received by the Company by email at legal@ raketech.com not less than 24 hours before the time appointed for the Meeting and in default shall not be treated as valid.Right to Ask Questions Each shareholder (or proxy holder) shall have the right to ask questions which are pertinent and related to items on the Agenda of the Meeting to the Company Secretary by e-mail to legal@ raketech.com by not later than 11:59 p.m. (CET) on 13 May 2025 . An answer to a question shall not be required in those cases specified in article 85 of the Articles (a copy of which is available on the Company's website).Shareholder Proposals In accordance with article 65 of the Articles, a shareholder holding not less than 5% of the voting issued share capital of the Company may: (a) request the Company to include items on the agenda of the Meeting, provided that each item is accompanied by a justification or a draft resolution to be adopted at the Meeting; and/or (b) table draft resolutions for items included in the agenda of the Meeting. A notice to this effect was uploaded onto the Company's website on 13 March 2025. In accordance with article 66 of the Articles, the request to put items on the agenda of the Meeting and the tabling of the draft resolutions are to be submitted to and received by the Company in hard copy form or in electronic form (at legal@ raketech.com ) by not later than 11:59 pm CET on 4 April 2025 and are to be authenticated by the person/s making it. The Company shall not be obliged to entertain any requests by shareholders made on or after 5 April 2025. The Company will have the sole discretion of determining whether any proposals submitted by shareholders have been properly submitted and, should any proposal require a modification to the agenda of the Meeting (as set out below), the Company shall make available a revised agenda on its website, together with updated proxy forms and voting instructions (if any), as soon as possible. Shareholders are therefore encouraged to check the Company's website after the above-mentioned deadline to check whether there have been any changes to the agenda and to ensure that they will be submitting the latest proxy forms and voting instructions.AgendaGeneral1 Opening of the Meeting2 Election of Chairman of the Meeting3 Drawing up and approval of the voting list4 Election of one or two persons to approve the minutes of the Meeting5 Approval of the agenda6 Determination whether the Meeting has been duly convened7 The CEO's presentationOrdinary business (ordinary resolutions)8 To receive and approve the Consolidated Financial Statements (Annual Report) of the Company for the year ended 31 December 2024 and the Directors' Report for the year ending 31 December 2024 and the Auditors' Report for the year ending 31 December 20249 Resolution on dividends10 Retirement of Board of Directors and Chairman of the Board of Directors and election of new Board of Directors and Chairman of the Board of Directors11 Determination of fees for the members of the Board of Directors12 Election of auditor13 Determination of fees for the auditorSpecial business (ordinary resolutions)14 Resolution on the principles for appointing a Nomin PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 18:30:59 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 447 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / OEC Freight Companies Inc. recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to OEC Group.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On May 13, 2024, OEC Group became aware of a security incident on its computer network. Upon detection, OEC Group launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cyber security experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to files on OEC Group's network containing sensitive information. OEC Group conducted a comprehensive review of the impacted data to determine what information was compromised and identified affected individuals. On February 14, 2025, OEC Group identified persons whose sensitive data was included in the impacted data.Upon information and belief, the following types of sensitive personalinformation may have been compromised:name, and Social Security number.On March 14, 2025, OEC Group filed a notice with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office and started sending out notice letters to the impacted individuals.Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from OEC Group, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. If you have received a notice about the data breach, you may be entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 18:46:46 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 465 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / Plaisted Companies, Inc., recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to Plaisted.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?In September 2024, Plaisted experienced a network disruption that prompted an immediate investigation with the assistance of third-party cybersecurity experts. The investigation determined that certain employee files were accessed without authorization around September 4, 2024. In response, Plaisted initiated a comprehensive review of the impacted files to determine what specific types of personal information were present and to identify affected individuals. This review concluded on February 11, 2025. Following the review, Plaisted verified address information to ensure proper notification could be provided. That process concluded on March 21, 2025.Upon information and belief, the following types of sensitive personalinformation may have been compromised: name, Social Security number, driver's license or other government identification number, account number, credit or debit card number, in combination with any required security code, access code, or password that would permit access to an individual's financial account. On March 26, 2025, Plaisted filed a notice with the New Hampshire Attorney General and began mailing data breach notification letters to the impacted individuals. Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Plaisted, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. If you have received a notice about the data breach, you may be entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 20:02:25 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 646 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 /WHY: New York, N.Y., April 4, 2025. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Edison International (NYSE:EIX) between February 25, 2021 and February 6, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important April 21, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action first filed by the Firm.SO WHAT: If you purchased Edison 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 Edison class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=33590or 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 April 21, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.WHY ROSEN LAW:We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Edison's claim that Southern California Edison Company ("SCE") used its Public Safety Power Shutoffs ("PSPS") program to "proactively de-energize power lines to mitigate the risk of catastrophic wildfires during extreme weather events", was false; (2) this resulted in heightened fire risk in California and heightened legal exposure to Edison; and (3) as a result, defendants' statements about Edison's business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.To join the Edison class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=33590call 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 investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm 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 FloorNew York, NY 10016Tel: (212) 686-1060Toll Free: (866) 767-3653Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@ rosenlegal.comwww.rosenlegal.com SOURCE: The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-05 00:15:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 772 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATESVANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / UniDoc Health Corp. (CSE:UDOC) ("UniDoc" or the "Company")is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement LIFE offering (the "Offering") for total gross proceeds of up to $500,000, consisting of up to 2,000,000 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.25 per Unit.Each Unit will consist of one common share in the capital of the Company and one-half of one transferrable common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire an additional common share at a price of $0.35 for a period of 24 months following the closing of the Offering.The Company plans to use the proceeds from the Offering for inventory, marketing and investor relations services, working capital, and general corporate purposes.The Units will be offered by way of the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions ("NI 45-106") in the province of British Columbia. Pursuant to NI 45-106, the securities forming part of the Units issued to Canadian resident subscribers under the Offering will not be subject to resale restrictions.There is an offering document related to this Offering that can be accessed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.com and at the Company's website www.unidoctor.com . Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision.The Offering is expected to close on or about April 11, 2025, or such other date that is within 45 days from April 4, 2025, as the Company may agree. The Offering remains subject to certain conditions customary for transactions of this nature, including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the CSE.On Behalf of the Board of Directors,~Antonio Baldassarre~Antonio Baldassarre CEO, President & Director UniDoc Health Corp.About UniDoc Health Corp. (CSE:UDOC)UniDoc is developing an eHealth solution which is being designed as a self-contained remote virtual clinic within a private kiosk for patients to undergo full consultations as if they were present in a physician's office. eHealth opens the doors to a large segment of the population challenged by access, experience or understanding of online computer technology. It is the Company's belief that physical accessibility is the key to its business proposition. UniDoc is dedicated to unlocking shareholder value by delivering an excellent product and sophisticated commercial network within an expedited timeframe. The UniDoc team encourages engagement, questions, and interest, so please stay in touch and invite anyone who might be interested in our story to visit our website at www.unidoctor.comand signup to receive the latest information with updates on our activities, events and progress.For further information, please contact:UniDoc Investor Relations Tel: +1 778.383.6731Email: info@ unidoctor.com Matt Chatterton, Director Tel: +1 778.613.2082Email: matt@ unidoctor.com Media Inquiries media@ unidoctor.com Certain information contained herein constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to: the Offering, completion of the Offering, the expected closing date of the Offering, and the use of proceeds of the Offering. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "anticipates", "anticipated" "expected" "intends" "will" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different, including receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. Although management of the Company have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.SOURCE: UniDoc Health Corp. PR-Inside.com: 2025-04-04 18:46:48 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 433 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / April 4, 2025 / United Domestic Workers of America/AFSCME Local 3930,recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to UDW.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On January 17, 2025, United Domestic Workers of America/AFSCME Local 3930 became aware of a security incident on its servers. Upon detection, UDW launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cybersecurity experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to UDW's systems and potentially compromised sensitive data. UDW conducted a comprehensive review of the impacted data to determine what information was compromised and identified affected individuals.Upon information and belief, the following types of sensitive personal information may have been compromised: names, Social Security numbers, and addresses. On March 27, 2025, UDW filed a notice with the Attorney General of California and started sending out notice letters to the impacted individuals. Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from UDW, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. If you have received a notice about the data breach, you may be entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. The firm is a 100% contingency firm - we don't get paid unless you get paid! Please visit us at www.zlk.com for more information. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP President Bola Tinubu has appointed Ayo Sotinrin as the new Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture, effective immediately. Mr Sotinrin brings a diverse and extensive background in the private and public sectors to his new role. Before this appointment, he held the position of Group Chief Executive Officer at SAO Group. His leadership at SAO Agro, an agribusiness company, was marked by groundbreaking agricultural initiatives, including developing a 20,000-hectare oil palm plantation and large-scale poultry, aquaculture, maize, and cassava operations in Ondo State. He also led SAO Capital, raising over $750 million in infrastructure and development finance, including the landmark $200 million Akure Water Supply Project. In the public sector, he served as Special Adviser (Environment & Urban Development) to the Minister of State FCT from 2011 to 2015. He has consulted extensively for global development partners such as the World Bank, AfDB, DFID, and USAID and played key advisory roles on federal and state-level projects. His international background includes roles at the Royal Bank of Scotland International, Deutsche Bank, and the UK Environment Agency. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mr Sotinrin holds an Executive MBA from Said Business School, Oxford University; an Advanced Diploma in Environmental Conservation; and a Masters in Engineering Business Management from Warwick University. Mr Sotinrins appointment aligns with the Tinubu administrations strategy to revitalise Nigerias agricultural sector. Mr Sotinrins proven ability to mobilise capital, innovate in agribusiness, and collaborate across sectors will be instrumental in repositioning the Bank of Agriculture as a catalyst for food security, sovereignty and rural prosperity, President Tinubu emphasised. Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) April 4, 2025 Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The oil and gas industry has been the backbone of Nigerias economy for decades, contributing significantly to government revenue and foreign exchange earnings. However, despite its importance, the sector is facing a growing challenge aggravated by the Japa Syndromethe mass exodus of highly trained engineering professionals to other countries. This shortage of skilled professionals poses a threat to the industrys sustainability and growth. Causes of the Talent Shortage 1. Brain Drain One of the primary causes of the shortage is the continuous migration of skilled engineers to developed countries in search of better opportunities. Many Nigerian engineers relocate to North America, Europe, and the Middle East due to better remuneration, career growth, and improved working conditions. The exodus of these professionals creates a significant skill gap in Nigerias oil and gas industry. 2. Declining Interest in Engineering Disciplines Younger generations are showing diminishing interest in engineering careers, especially in the oil and gas sector. The perception that the industry is volatile, with frequent downturns and job losses, discourages many from pursuing careers in engineering. 3. Inadequate Training and Skill Development Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Although Nigeria produces thousands of engineering graduates each year, many lack the practical skills essential for the oil and gas industry. A significant gap exists between academic instruction and real-world engineering practice. This disconnect means that graduates often require substantial additional training before they can contribute effectively in the field. The critical question is: who bears the responsibilityand the costof this training? Should it be the responsibility of academia, the industry, or the government? Many engineering firms today are no longer investing in the training and development of young engineers. Instead, they tend to prefer hiring experienced professionals, which explains the persistent demand for candidates with five to ten years of experience. This trend marks a significant shift from the practices of 20 to 25 years ago. A large portion of Nigerias seasoned geoscience, engineering, and management professionals came through structured training programmes provided by multinational companies. These organisations routinely recruited graduates from Nigerian universities, offering them comprehensive local and international training, along with invaluable mentorship from experienced expatriates. However, with the gradual exit of multinationals and the increasing dominance of Nigerian companies in oilfield development, a critical question arises: are local companies making adequate investments in workforce development? Are training budgets truly being utilised to build capacity, or are they merely included in Field Development Plans as formalities? If meaningful investments in training are not made, the industry risks facing an even deeper professional skills gap in the near future. 4. Aging Workforce A large proportion of Nigerias experienced oil and gas engineers are nearing retirement age, and there are in-sufficient young professionals to replace them. There is that skill gap across cadres such that the engineering workforce in Nigeria is top heavy. This generational gap exacerbates the talent crisis in the sector. 5. Limited Investment in Research and Development (R&D) Nigerias expenditure on R&D remains significantly low compared to global standards. While developed nations allocate 24 per cent of their GDP to R&D, Nigeria spends less than 0.2 per cent. This lack of funding limits the capacity for scientific breakthroughs and homegrown technological solutions. Without cutting-edge projects and innovative technologies, skilled engineers seek opportunities elsewhere where they can engage in more advanced work. 6. Lopsided Recruitment A concerning trend in the industry is the growing practice of recruitment based on favouritism and personal affiliations rather than merit. This has led to unqualified individuals being placed in roles for which they are ill-suited, undermining efficiency and productivity. Implications of the Talent Shortage 1. Increased Operational Costs Oil and gas companies in Nigeria often have to hire expatriates to fill key technical roles, leading to higher operational costs. Foreign experts demand higher salaries, benefits, and accommodation expenses, increasing the overall cost of production. 2. Decline in Production Efficiency A lack of skilled engineers results in operational inefficiencies, leading to increased downtime, poor maintenance practices, and suboptimal production output. This affects the competitiveness of Nigerias oil and gas sector on a global scale. 3. Slow Adoption of New Technologies With fewer skilled engineers, the industry struggles to implement and integrate emerging technologies such as automation, digital oilfield solutions, and AI-driven analytics. This stifles innovation and limits Nigerias ability to maximize oil and gas reserves efficiently. 4. Reduced Investment in the Sector Foreign and local investors are less likely to commit capital to a sector that lacks the necessary human resources to drive operations successfully. A weak engineering workforce discourages investment and affects long-term industry sustainability. Strategies to Address the Talent Shortage 1. Strengthening Engineering Education Universities should revamp their curricula to include more practical training, internships, and collaboration with industry players. Enhanced technical and vocational education can also help produce graduates who are job-ready. 2. Incentivising Talent Retention The government and private sector should create policies that make the Nigerian oil and gas industry attractive to skilled professionals. Competitive salaries, career development programmes, and improved working conditions can help retain top talents. 3. Encouraging Knowledge Transfer Expatriate engineers working in Nigeria should be mandated to train local engineers as part of knowledge transfer initiatives. Mentorship programmes and on-the-job training will help bridge the skills gap. 4. Promoting Research and Development Investing in R&D will encourage innovation and attract engineering talents who seek intellectually stimulating work. Partnerships between oil companies, universities, and research institutions should be fostered to drive technological advancements. 5. Government and Industry Collaboration The government should implement policies that support local content development, ensuring that Nigerian engineers are prioritised for employment in key industry roles. Companies should also establish graduate trainee programmes to nurture young professionals. Conclusion The dearth of engineering talents in Nigerias oil and gas industry is a pressing challenge that requires immediate intervention. By addressing the root causes, investing in human capital, and fostering an environment conducive to career growth, Nigeria can develop a robust engineering workforce capable of sustaining the industry for future generations. If these challenges are not tackled promptly, the country risks losing its competitive edge in the global oil and gas market. Olusegun Oyebanji is an energy consultant. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Nineteen years ago, trailblazing Hollywood filmmaker Nnegest Olufunmilayo Likkes debut film, Phat Girlz, bounced its big, beautiful, curvy storyline into theatres, determined to make history. And what a history it made! Phat Girlz not only captivated viewers with its compelling storyline and celebration of self-love but also left an indelible mark on global black cinema and bridged the cultural gap between Africans and African Americans. Released globally on 7 April 2006 by 20th Century Fox Studios, the rom-com showcased an all-star black cast. Academy Award-winning actress MoNique played the lead role as the sexy and desirable love interest of heartthrob Jimmy Jean-Louis, who played Dr Tunde. Additional key cast members included the hilarious Nigerian-American comedian Godfrey Danchimah and award-winning thespian Dayo Ade. Ms Likke, who wrote and directed the groundbreaking film, has a unique tri-cultural backgroundshes half-Ethiopian, African-American, and Nigerianwhich she describes as being like a walking dish of fufu, injera, and fried chicken. In this PREMIUM TIMES interview, she speaks about the award-winning film. PT: Congratulations on the 19th anniversary of Phat Girlz. What kind of emotions does this milestone evoke in you? Likke: Im ecstatic! It feels a bit surreal. Reflecting on when I was filming this movie 20 years ago, I remember my hopes for this film and its outreach. I was praying it would touch women worldwide, especially African and African-American women, for whom the film is primarily made. I wanted to make a film that makes people fall in love with Africa, particularly Nigeria, which I consider my third home after America and Ethiopia. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later I am half Ethiopian, African-American and Nigerian, and I have been visiting Nigeria since I was 10. I have worked extensively in the country, consulting, producing, and directing and have also served as a juror for the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA). I have family living in Oyo State and Delta State in Isoko. The success of this beautiful Nigerian-American love story and its impact on multiple generations, including the younger generations who are just now discovering the film, is a testament to the growing body-positivity movement. This films becoming a cult classic has blown my mind and surpassed my wildest dreams! Its a reminder that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes and that everybody deserves love and respect. PT: At the time, body positivity wasnt a mainstream conversation. What inspired you to tackle this theme? Likke: Well, Ive always been a plus-size girl. And growing up in a minus-size world which is America where thin-is-in and fat-is-whack was very challenging. And hard on the self-esteem. It corrupted my self-image until I was old enough to realise I was beautiful. One of the things that helped me realise I was beautiful was all my trips to Africa growing up. When I travelled to Nigeria, Ethiopia and other African countries with my mom growing up, I always got compliments on my naturally thicker size, and even women would tell me its not good to be skinny. Their perception was that being skinny or too thin with no meat on their bones made a woman look malnourished and underdeveloped. Being full-figured was always preferred in Nigeria and Ethiopia back when I was growing up. Things didnt change until they started being influenced by Americas warped beauty standards and seeing all of those anorexic-looking supermodels. Some of them looked like skin and bones, and the modelling industry made them starve themselves to look that way. So, at some point, I rated beauty standards as subjective, depending on where you live and what industry you work in. I decided to make it a comedy since I love writing and making people laugh. I then developed the storyline, including the Nigerian characters and love story elements. I was so inspired while writing that I finished the script in three weeks. My reps loved it and sent it to MoNiques agent because she was the one I had in mind while writing the dialogue. MoNique also loved the script and called to tell me she was on board. Im happy that thickness is now in America and that the body-positivity revolution has begun because I will always be a thick madame! PT: Before Phat Girlz, how did Hollywood and Nollywood typically portray body image, and what gaps did you feel needed to be addressed? Likke: Before Phat Girlz and to a large degree even today- there is still body prejudice in the film industry. Bigger girls can get roles, but usually, the roles are not for romantic interest or leads. The characters are generally flawed or undesirable or there for comic relief or support to the skinny beautiful friend. Phat Girlz is still one of the only if not the only Hollywood movies where a big girl has a genuine love interest, and the joke is not on her. I cant think of another film that big-ups, big girls like Phat Girlz do. That means the problem still exists today in Hollywood. Not so much anymore in broader society. I notice more and more women having a healthy body image regardless of size, and I love it. I cant help but think Phat Girlz played a role in this shift, and I am delighted about that. I think Nollywood and Africa, in general, are still much less judgmental about womens body types. In Africa, big women dont have a problem finding a man, especially in the older generations. However, the problem still exists in America, although it has improved significantly. PT: Has the film industrys perception changed over the years, or is work still to be done? Likke: There is still work to be done. The film industrys perception and treatment of non-thin women have not changed much. Arguably, roles are more diverse, and you can find actors and actresses of any size in movies. But its hardly ever in the lead role or a romantic role. Hopefully, Hollywood will catch up soon, or I will make Phat Girlz 2 and call all Nigerian billionaire investors! Lets make a movie. PT: What feedback or stories from viewers have stuck with you over the years? Likke: Oh, there are so many! Every day, on social media platforms, especially on X, people tweet about Phat Girlz and how the movie impacted them. People say their lives have been changed, and its their go-to movie to feel better whenever they feel low. The posts are from people of all ages and races, including males and females. Many are of the younger generation, age 20 and up. I thank God for using the movie to help and inspire people. Another kind of feedback I get is from many black American women telling me they want to go live in Africa and find a Dr. Tunde. I love this because it means the narrative shift is happening. PT: Do you feel the films message still resonates with audiences today? Likke: The films message resonates even more significantly today than when it was released. Phat Girlz was way ahead of time, and mainstream cultures just now catching up. When released, the film was targeted by various mainstream media critics in America who hated the pro-African message and the love-yourself-no-matter-your-size spirit. But what kind of person is against positivity and a beautiful movie promoting self-love? Now everyones saying Africas awesome; its the new frontier! And body positivity is good; lets get a BBL! Another message the film promotes is Following your dreams and utilising your natural gifts to succeed. Dont be afraid to try again; never take no for an answer. There are so many great messages packed inside that 100-minute movie. So, if you havent seen it, nows the time to check it out on its 19th anniversary. PT: You are known as a pioneer of cross-genre films; how did that happen for you about Phat Girlz? Likke: Well, I think my life represents a cross-genre. Im half Ethiopian, African-American and Nigerian. I was born and raised in America but spent much of my childhood in Africa and travelling around the world with my mom, a jet setter. She took me everywhere, not just in African countries but all over Europe and the Caribbean. So, I was exposed to many different cultures worldwide; my diverse experiences naturally came out in my writing and informed the kinds of stories I tell. Some other films I produced include Everything But A Man, starring Jimmy Jean-Louis. I also wrote the Netflix Original A Sunday Affair. PT: Afrobeats is now a global sensation, but it is still emerging. How do you feel about having played a role in introducing it to international audiences through African Queen? Likke: I feel so blessed and honoured to have played a role in introducing Afrobeats to international audiences through African Queen. It was the best song of its day. Things have changed a bit now, and they seem to be moving towards American-style hip-hop and R&B. Still, I want to encourage all the Afrobeats artists to maintain their originality, uniqueness and African-ness. Afrobeats without the Afro is just beats. Keep it African. Be different, new, fresh. Keep reinventing yourself. Dont follow American hip-hop or any other style except your own. Its okay to evolve, switch it up, be influenced by another style, and collaborate with artists in different genres. Thats cool. But dont abandon your original and organic style, which sets you apart from the pack. Cause Africa is where everything started and where its gonna end. Mama Africa has always been the true global leader and trendsetter, so dont forget youre the blueprint. I think Afrobeats as a genre is at a crossroads and needs to decide if its gonna be a follower or a leader. African Queen is an iconic song because, as simple as it was, it struck a universal chord with the world. Everyone loved that song. There are a lot of hits in the Afrobeats genre, but will those songs stand the test of time and still be banging 20 years like African Queen is? PT: After all these years, what do you consider the films most important legacy? Likke: Phat Girlzs most important legacy is simple: love yourself. Love yourself like a fine diamond through thick and thin, ups and downs, and highs and lows. Never abandon or betray yourself or criticise yourself about anything. And dont let anyone else do it, either. Not a person or society. Embrace every single one of your body parts. If theres something you dont like or wish to improve, work on it without judging yourself. Embrace all your so-called flaws because they are what make you unique. Consider the word imperfect and how its spelled. That word can either mean imperfect like its spelt or if you add some space between letters, it can mean Im perfect. Same letters, but different spacing gives it a different meaning. PT: How has engaging with Nigerian culture influenced your creative journey? Likke: Greatly and magnificently! I wouldnt be the filmmaker I am today if it werent for Nigeria and Nigerian culture. There are no other people on earth quite like Nigerians. They are the most resourceful and imaginative people on the planet. I hope to make many more films in the country and collaborate with local Nigerian artists and filmmakers. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Supreme Court, on Friday, set aside the judgement of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which recognised Julius Abure as the national chairperson of the Labour Party (LP). A five-member panel of the Supreme Court unanimously held that the Court of Appeal lacked jurisdiction to have affirmed Abure as chairman of the LP since the substance of the case was about the partys leadership. It held that the issue of leadership was an internal affair of a party over which courts lacked jurisdiction. The court upheld the appeal filed against the judgement by Nenadi Usman, who was appointed the caretaker chairperson of the party in September 2024, and one other. The National Executive Committee (NEC) sacked the Mr Abure-led executive in September last year and appointed Ms Usman, a former Minister of Finance and ex-senator representing Kaduna South, to lead a 29-member caretaker committee and facilitate the election of a new party leadership within 90 days. The Supreme Court held on Friday that Ms Usmans appeal was meritorious, as it also dismissed the cross-appeal filed by the Mr Abure-led faction of the LP for lacking merit. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Earlier ruling by the Appeal Court Earlier on 17 January 2025, the Court of Appeal ruled that its earlier decision in November 2024, recognising Mr Abure as the partys chairman, remained valid and had not been overturned by any court. Hamma Barka, who read the lead judgement, held that the appellate court did not consider the two separate appeals filed by the appellants since they centred on party leadership, on which the court lacked jurisdiction to adjudicate. He said anything done outside jurisdiction amounted to a nullity. The court voided the judgement of the Federal High Court delivered on 8 October 2024 on the grounds that the lower court lacked jurisdiction to hear the suit. Background of the matter In February 2024, Oluchi Oparah the Labour Partys national treasurer, accused Mr Abure of misappropriating N3.5 billion, a claim which Mr Abure denied while threatening legal action. The allegation led to calls from party members for Mr Abures removal. READ ALSO: Wike reacts to collapse rumour Earlier in April 2023, the FCT High Court issued an order restraining Mr Abure from parading himself as the national chairman of the party. While ruling on an ex parte application, Hamza Muazu, the judge, also restrained Farouk Ibrahim, national secretary; Clement Ojukwu, national organising secretary; and Mr Opara from parading themselves as national officers of the party. On 4 September, Ms Usman was appointed to chair a 29-member caretaker committee after Governor Alex Otti of Abia State convened a stakeholders meeting of the party in Umuahia. Peter Obi, LPs presidential candidate in 2023, and Datti Baba-Ahmed, his running mate, were among the top party members who attended the meeting. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had also invalidated Mr Abures leadership, saying the national convention violated the constitution and Electoral Act. The electoral body said the party failed to meet legal requirements for holding the convention, insisting that Abures tenure as LP national chair expired in June 2024. However, in a judgement on 8 October 2024, the Federal High Court affirmed the Abure-led leadership and the March 2024 Nnewi convention that produced the party executives. The judge, Emeka Nwite, had ordered INEC to recognise Mr Abure as the legitimate chairman of the party. The Supreme Courts decision on Friday holding that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the case, being an issue of internal affairs of the party, lays the dispute to rest as it upholds Ms Usmans appeal. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Friday, restrained Kogi Central senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and others from granting media interviews on issues relating to Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghans pending suit challenging her suspension by the Senate. The judge, Binta Nyako, who newly took over the case after the former judge withdrew last week, gave the gag order during Fridays proceedings. Mrs Nyako ordered that no party or counsel in the suit should grant media interviews pending the hearing and determination of the case. There should be no press interview by all parties and counsel as regard the subject matter of this case; no streaming or social media post as regard this case. There should be no TV interviews as regards this. There should be total media blockage, the judge held. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, on Thursday, reassigned the case to Mrs Nyako. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The development followed the withdrawal of the former judge, Obiora Egwuatu, from the matter following a petition sent by Mr Akpabio, the third defendant sued in the case, accusing him of bias. Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan filed the suit last month to halt an investigation by the Senate and its Committee on Ethics into alleged misconduct stemming from a Senate sitting where she had an altercation with Mr Akpabio over her assigned seat. Despite the suit and the initial restraining order issued by the former judge handling the case, the Senate proceeded to suspend her for six months. The case has attracted both local and international media attention, further intensified by Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghans allegations of sexual harassment against Mr Akpabio. The senate committee on ethics has twice dismissed her sexual harassment petition against Mr Akpabio on grounds of breach of procedure. Mr Akpabio has denied the allegations. Parties to the case have directly or through allies, media aides and press statements spoken to the media on the matter, making allegations, counter-allegations and denials stemming from the case. Meanwhile, the media interviews on the matter which the court barred on Friday are not the only channels the affected parties speak to the public about the issues. For instance, senators, whose comments on the floor of the Senate are covered by immunity, retain freedom to speak when the issues concerning the matter arise. Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan and groups sympathetic to her cause have also submitted petitions to investigative bodies, whose proceedings and filings are covered by the media. It is also not clear if non-parties to the suit are bound by the courts gag order. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Dataphyte is pleased to announce the upscaling of its Editorial Advisory Board to reflect the organisations trajectory as a Socioeconomic Think-Tank. The newly appointed members of the Editorial Advisory Board are comprised of seasoned professionals and thought leaders across academia, public policy, media, technology, and open government practice. The board fields individuals with rich multi-sectoral expertise in socioeconomic development, democracy, Artificial Intelligence, policy and think tank engagements in Africa and the Diaspora, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Its members are Prof Adeola Adenikiju the Editorial Advisory Board Chair, Dr Leena Hoffmann The Vice Chair of the Board, Dr Temitope Laniran The Secretary to the Board, Dr Yemi Kale, Ms Cynthia Mbamalu, Mr Stanley Achonu, Ms Eva Constantaras, Ms Teni Tayo, Prof Seun Kolade, Mr Henry Adigun, Mr Atiku Samuel, Ms Ayisha Osori, and Mr Abdulazeez Elayo. According to Dataphytes CEO, Joshua Olufemi, the EAB was established to uphold the rigor, relevance, and clarity of the upcoming think tanks research outputs, ensuring that high standards of academic and professional excellence are maintained and continually enhanced. Olufemi reiterated that the roles and expectations of the Editorial Advisory Board (EAB) are centred on ensuring quality assurance. He highlighted that the boards key responsibilities include reviewing and providing critical feedback on Dataphytes research papers, policy briefs, and other publications. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Dataphyte has excelled as a social enterprise, providing data access, insight, and technology services to businesses, governments, and development organisations, transforming socioeconomic data to power civic engagement and social accountability to envision a new path for growth in Africa, marking its five years of impact on the continent and the Diaspora. Further to Dataphytes emergence as a leading socioeconomic Think Tank on the continent, the research, media, and data analytics organisation has announced the launch of its new Insight website. The Research Lead of the organisation, Oluseyi Olufemi, while speaking with a group of researchers and academics, said the unveiling is beyond the new user interface. He noted the unveiling comes as part of the organisations move to transition to a subscription-based model. The Website Manager, Paul Akinwunmi, relished the fact that the new websites design is modern, intuitive, and focused on delivering a seamless user experience. The platform will serve as a hub for meaningful conversations driven by data, bridging the gap between citizens, policymakers, and change-makers. According to Dataphytes Head of Policy Research Communications, Khadijat Kareem, the new website will offer exclusive, in-depth insights, investigations, and data-driven storytelling to a growing audience of discerning readers. With this transition, Dataphyte aims to ensure the policy research communication arm of the organisation is self-sustaining and able to facilitate the financing and delivery of high-quality content that addresses critical issues across governance, economy, health, education, climate change, and more, she said. Subscribers will gain free access to its investigative reports; in-depth and exclusive data stories and analysis; exclusive resources for professionals, researchers, and policymakers; and tailored newsletters and alerts on emerging trends in data and governance. For more information about the subscription model and exclusive content and to explore the profiles of the Editorial Advisory Board members, visit our website. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Gunmen on Thursday abducted Blessing Adagba, the coordinator of Ngbo Central Development Centre in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. The incident occurred on Thursday, sending shockwaves through the community. The police in Ebonyi State have confirmed the abduction. Joshua Ukandu, the police spokesperson in the state, told reporters that the Anti-Kidnapping Squad was working hard to secure the victims release. The abduction took place around midnight in the Okposhi Eheku community in Ohaukwu Local Government Area. Around 12 a.m., a group of men disguised as soldiers invaded the residence of Hon. Blessing Adagba. They demanded she open the door, but she refused, questioning why soldiers would come at such an (odd) hour. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The kidnappers brandished firearms, overpowered the coordinator and abducted her to an unknown location. Residents and security operatives in Ohaukwu are reportedly making efforts to ensure the safe return of the victim. Community leaders have expressed concern over the rise in abductions in the area. They are calling for increased security measures to protect residents. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Kwara State Government has signed an agreement to upgrade the Omu Aran General Hospital to a teaching hospital for the Thomas Adewumi University (TAU) Oko in Irepodun Local Government of the state. Last year, the government signed a similar MOU to allow Al-Hikmah University to use the newly upgraded Sobi Specialist Ilorin as a teaching hospital as part of the accreditation process for its medical courses. The MOU signing ceremony with TAU was witnessed by senior government officials, traditional rulers, academics, and stakeholders in the sector. Among the dignitaries were the Commissioner for Health, Amina El-Imam; the Commissioner for Communications, Bola Olukoju; the chairperson of Irepodun Local Government, Yakub AbdulAzeez; and the Executive Secretary, Kwara State Hospital Management Board, Abdulraheem Malik. Others were the founder and Chancellor of TAU, Thomas Adewumi; the vice-chancellor of the university, Francisca Oladipo; the VC of Al-Hikmah University, Noah Yusuf; and the VC of Ahman Pategi University, Kazeem Bolagbade. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later In her address, the health commissioner, Mrs El-Imam, said the agreement would strengthen the healthcare system of the state. READ ALSO: Wike approves recruitment of 34 resident doctors for FCT hospitals She cited recent recruitment of 1,005 health workers, including medical officers, midwives and nurses, the ongoing process to implement the latest CONMESS, facility upgrades across basic and secondary facilities, and the creation of the state teaching hospital as some of the achievements of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq in the health sector. Mr Adewumi, for his part, thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for the development. END More Pictures: Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print As the federal government finalises plans to disburse funds directly to the 774 local governments in Nigeria, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) announced on Thursday its plan to begin monitoring the utilisation of the funds. The commission disclosed the plan during the launch of an initiative for the implementation of the tracking in Abuja on Thursday. The project, Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme (ACPP-LG), aims to track and stop the embezzlement of public funds, ensuring that resources are effectively distributed to attain financial transparency and equal development across the country. The ICPC chairperson, Musa Aliyu, reiterated the critical position of local governments in providing essential services to the general public. He explained that the initiative aims to detect and prevent the misuse of public funds, ensuring that resources allocated for national development are judiciously applied. He said there was an urgent need for such an initiative, as over 60 per cent of corruption cases investigated by the commission at the local level are about the diversion of public funds meant for development projects. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later This decision ensures the direct disbursement of funds to local councils, removing undue state interference and creating a crucial opportunity for governance reform. As an anti-corruption agency, ICPC is committed to ensuring the success of this reform by enforcing compliance with anti-corruption laws and fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and efficiency, he said. He said that the initiative has the potential to enhance financial management, governance standards, and proactive disclosure in local government systems of administration. Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, represented by the Director of Public Prosecution, M.B. Abubakar, said the recent landmark judgement of the Supreme Court affirming the financial autonomy of local governments is a historic stride towards liberating the third tier of government from excessive state interference, thereby enhancing their effective capacity to deliver essential services to the grassroots. He added that the significance of the judgement cannot be overstated, as it serves not only as a legal affirmation of constitutional principles but also as a moral directive towards fostering inclusive and sustainable development across the nation. He stressed that the federal government remains resolute in its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance at all levels, as encapsulated in the National Anti-Corruption Strategy. Commending the initiative, Kayode Akiolu, the chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Corruption, said he believes it will contribute significantly to the efforts to tackle corruption across the country, the local government being very close to the Nigerian people. Regrettably, in spite of years of reforms, the local government system continues to struggle to deliver on its mandate of taking good governance to the people in mostly rural areas and relieving other tiers of government of avoidable pressure. The only major foreseeable obstacle to local governments becoming hubs of development is corruption. This is why the ICPCs rollout of the Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme for local governments is a crucial step in instilling a culture of accountability and corruption prevention. Similarly, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption, Emmanuel Udende, said lawmakers are fully committed to enacting and strengthening legislations that promote accountability, transparency, and good governance at all levels. He added that the Senate Committee will work tirelessly to support policies that guarantee the responsible management of public funds, ensuring that allocations meant for local governments translate into real development for the people. Financial autonomy The local government is Nigerias third tier of government, the level of government closest to the grassroots. But for decades, local governments have almost been crippled many states, where the governors seized their federal allocations and only released funds to them in piecemeal to barely keep them going. In July 2024, in a landmark decision, the Supreme Court affirmed the financial autonomy of Nigerias 774 local governments. In the unanimous judgement of its seven-member panel, the Supreme Court upheld the suit brought by the federal government to strengthen the independence of local governments in the country. A member of the panel, Emmanuel Agim, who delivered the courts lead judgement, held that the local governments across the country should, from the day of the judgement, receive their allocations directly from the Accountant-General of the Federation. He ruled that it is illegal and unconstitutional for governors to receive and withhold funds allocated to local government areas (LGAs) in their states. But the implementation of the judgements has been put on hold in many states, with the governors of such states saying it was not realistic to execute. An Inter-Ministerial Committee set up by the federal government to enforce the verdict met in Abuja in January vowing to soon begin the implementation of the judgement. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Managing Editor of PREMIUM TIMES, Idris Akinbajo, will speak at the Africa-China Engagement webinar, scheduled for Friday. The online event, organised by the Africa-China Initiative (ACI) at Georgetown University, USA, is themed: New African Research on China-Africa Engagement and Impacts on Peace & Security. It will explore various research findings by African scholars on the role of Chinese actors in Africas security and development. The discussion, which will bring together five African researchers, will examine how Chinese actors influence conflicts, contribute to mediation efforts, and shape Africas peace and security landscape. Among the featured researchers is Philip Kaudo, a PhD in Public Policy candidate and lecturer at the University of Nairobi (Kenya). His research, Private Security Companies in Kenya: A Comparative Case Study Analysis of Chinese, Local, and Western Private Security Actors, examines the roles of various security providers in Kenya. Bianca Mesumbe, the Growth and Investment Officer at Women in Entrepreneurship and Technology (WETECH) in Yaounde, Cameroon, will also speak. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later She will present her study, Government Policy on Mining and Security in Central Africa: The Case of Chinese Companies Established in Eastern Cameroon. Moustafa Ahmad, an independent researcher and writer, and Sacad Muhumed, a Masters student at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, will discuss their research, Shared Isolation, Strategic Collaboration: Unpacking Somaliland-Taiwan Relations. Also, Prolific Matuse, a lecturer at Wigwe University, Nigeria, will present his work, The Geopolitics of Chinese Coal and Lithium Investments in Zimbabwe. This webinar will provide critical insights into the complex dynamics of China-Africa engagement, particularly in the areas of security, economic investments, and conflict resolution. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print United States (US) President Donald Trumps administration has wrought havoc across Africa and beyond by abruptly dismantling the multibillion-dollar US Agency for International Development (USAID). This has terminated countless development projects and put millions of recipients at risk. The cuts are difficult to quantify because of the chaotic way the US has gone about them. But 5,341 USAID programmes worth $75.9 billion have been wiped out, says Devex an independent news organisation covering development issues, quoting a leaked USAID document. Some 898 programmes, worth around $78 billion, remain. Devex says the US State Department also lost 2,100 aid programmes totalling $4.6 billion. Jakkie Cilliers, head of the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) African Futures and Innovation (AFI) programme, summarised the possible global impact. Drawing on various sources, he noted: up to 18 million additional cases of malaria yearly; a million cases of severe and potentially fatal childhood malnutrition; 600 per cent more HIV infections; and a spread of famine as $489 million of life-saving and life-sustaining food assistance is at risk of spoilage, delay or diversion. In Africa, AFIs modelling estimates there could be about 5.6 million more extremely poor people by 2026, and the overall African economy could shrink by about $4.2 billion by 2030. The impact on HIV/AIDS in Africa would be immense because of cuts to the Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Mr Cilliers notes that US official development assistance represents about 30 per cent of the global total while the European Union (EU) contributes about 42 per cent. And what has largely been ignored is that several EU states, including France, Germany, Netherlands and Belgium, are also cutting their aid budgets. So are the United Kingdom and Switzerland, by about 25 per cent each. This is mostly because in an increasingly perilous world and particularly because Mr Trump is threatening to withdraw US support from Europe just as it faces a greater threat from Russia Western countries are diverting development aid to defence. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Europe is restructuring its development aid, shifting from traditional grants to investment-driven funding while cutting budgets and [prioritising defence], raising concerns about the future of global development, according to Devex. African countries have been slow in determining how to fill the gaping holes in their development budgets, including finding ways to increase domestic revenues by for example more efficient tax revenue services. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa last week acknowledged that Americas decision to slash PEPFAR, which contributed 17 per cent of South Africas cost of fighting HIV/AIDS, was a wake-up call to his government to fund that 17 per cent itself. However, GroundUp and Spotlight noted that the crisis had erupted in January, yet it took South Africas Health Department until 3 March just to meet with USAID implementing partners in the country. And no money had yet been allocated to fill the massive hole left by PEPFAR cuts which are estimated to result in hundreds of thousands of deaths over the next [decade]. Others see this as Africas chance to change its relationship of dependency on donor countries as Kenyan satirist and commentator Patrick Gathara did in a Resistance Bureau webinar last week on Africa After Aid? The Impact and Possibilities. He lamented that the aid cuts discourse had largely been a return to the old narrative of the hopeless continent that is incapable of taking care of itself without the help of good-natured westerners. Instead, Africa was a net creditor to the world and donor countries earned $7-$8 for every dollar they spent on aid, he said. Mr Gathara suggested that other African countries learn from Kenya, where young people especially protested last year against President William Rutos attempt to raise taxes. They demanded he balance the books by tackling corruption and excessive government spending instead. Nic Cheeseman, University of Birmingham Professor of Democracy, agreed that the yawning gap in aid revenues would have to be filled by increasing public pressure on governments to be more accountable, shifting revenues away from corruption towards delivering services. He told the webinar that South Sudan, for example, spent a tiny percentage of its budget on providing healthcare, relying on the US to fund about 60-70 per cent of it. However, Mr Cheeseman said that channelling that pressure was a problem, particularly as the aid cuts were also defunding civil society organisations pushing for democracy and good governance. Mr Cilliers said USAID had been a major funder of programmes to strengthen democratic institutions, human rights and governance across Africa. This sector would be one of those most affected by cuts, as over 90 per cent of the USAID and State Department funding for this work was being abolished. He said the absence of democracy aid could entrench authoritarian leaders and provoke political instability in Africa, making African countries more susceptible to the influence of undemocratic countries like China and Russia. Mr Cheeseman thought countries like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia would partly fill the vacuum in development financing. So the new game might prove more problematic from the [viewpoint] of an African Renaissance, he said. Meanwhile, the US would be ceding a tremendous amount of soft power, including policy influence, to these other countries. Mr Cilliers told the webinar that AFI research showed that the levels of democracy in many African countries were higher than expected, given development levels. He attributed some of that democratic surplus to conditionalities and the pro-democracy efforts funded by Western aid agencies. Official development assistance is the form our international cooperation took in the 1960s and 50s, French Development Agency CEO Remy Rioux told Devex. What will happen now is just consistent with what the world has become, and we need a new architecture. We need to turn from assistance to investment sustainable, inclusive investment. However, Mr Cilliers cautioned those now celebrating the end of aid dependency in Africa that it wouldnt be easy for trade and private investment to solve the continents development challenges, especially for the poorest countries. He said Africas 22 least developed countries commanded only about 0.4 per cent of global trade, and its 24 low- to middle-income countries enjoyed only around 1 per cent. Expecting these countries to trade their way out of poverty is at best a multi-generational project, he noted. Large multinationals dont invest in poor countries. Neither with global philanthropy nor funds from the diaspora will [Africa] be able to fill the hole that is being left. Africa is increasingly on its own but its financial independence comes with a price. Perhaps the only bright spot is that some gaps from USAID will be filled by European countries using the opportunity to leverage their own soft power as tensions and competition with the US intensify. For all its manifold errors and challenges, European aid has traditionally been more transparent and based on political and policy dialogue compared to that from the US. Peter Fabricius, Consultant, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Pretoria (This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish). Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Twin explosions, suspected to be from grenades, killed one person and injured about eight others at a scavenging site in Taiwo Street, Idi-Araba community, Mushin Local Government Area of Lagos State. Multiple sources in the community told PREMIUM TIMES that the incident happened on Thursday. A witness, Jegede Taiwo, said the first explosion occurred around noon, killing a scavenger who was trying to break a metal that looked like a rocket. One person also sustained injury at the time. They must have brought the rocket from somewhere, he said, explaining that the blast severed the head of the deceased. The second blast occurred around 5:00 p.m., Shehu Idris, a resident, said, adding that the incident razed a house close to the scavenging site. Mr Idris said more people were injured during the second blast. He estimated the number of injured victims at eight. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later He added that the injured victims have been taken to a hospital in the area In videos of the incident circulated online, two items suspected to be rocket-propelled grenades could be seen at the scavenging site. Police operatives and firefighters were deployed to the scene to douse tension in the community. The spokesperson for the State Lagos Police Command, Benjamin Hudeyin, did not respond to calls and an SMS sent to him about the incident. PREMIUM TIMES will provide more updates of the incident in subsequent reports. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party (LP), Obiora Ifoh, says Julius Abure remains the national chairman of the party despite the judgement of the Supreme Court on Friday. Mr Ifoh said this in a statement in Abuja shortly after the judgement was delivered. The Supreme Court, on Friday, set aside the judgement of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which recognised Mr Abure as the national chairperson of the LP. A five-member panel of the Supreme Court unanimously held that the Court of Appeal lacked jurisdiction to have affirmed Mr Abure as chairman of the LP since the substance of the case was about the partys leadership. It held that the issue of leadership was an internal affair of a party over which courts lacked jurisdiction. The court upheld the appeal filed against the judgement by Nenadi Usman, who was appointed the caretaker committee chairperson of the party last year. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mr Ifoh said Mr Abure remains the chairman of the LP and that the Supreme Courts position is that the matter is purely an internal affair of the party, which courts have no business to dabble into. He said the Supreme Court noted that the lower courts should have declined jurisdiction and shouldnt have made pronouncement on the leadership of a political party. The spokesperson further stated that the Supreme Court did not set aside the Court of Appeal judgement of 13 November 2024, which affirmed Mr Abure as the national chairman of the party, adding, the judgement is still valid and subsisting and has not been appealed. The position of the Supreme Court is that the structures of the party is capable of handling any matters as it concerns its affairs and as it is today, the Labour Party National Chairman is and remains Barrister Julius Abure, Mr Ifoh said. The spokesperson said the LP constitution is very clear about which party organ can call its national convention or any national meeting. He said Article 14 of the 2024 constitution as amended gives powers to the National Secretary of the party .. to issue notices of meetings of the national convention, national executive council, the national working committee in consultation with and approval of the National Chairman. According to him, the meeting at Umuahia, Abia State, where the caretaker committee, headed by Mrs Usman, a former finance minister, was not in line with the constitution of the party Accordingly, the National convention of the party was called by the leadership of the party on the 27 of March 2024, where the leaders of the party emerged. The report of the National Convention is already with INEC, and its leadership is recognised by INEC. The gathering of people in Umuahia is clearly not in line with the constitution and therefore the celebration by some persons that the leadership of Julius Abure has been sacked were only trying to be mischievous and misleading and that the Supreme Court didnt say so, Mr Ifoh said. Read the full statement: Supreme Court upholds Abure as national chairman, says only parties must decide their leadership Labour Party hails judgement The Supreme Court today, April 4, 2025 gave a judgement in the cases brought against the Labour Party. In its judgement, the court said the matter is purely an internal affairs of the political party of which courts have no business to dabble into them. The Supreme Court insists that the lower courts should have declined jurisdiction and shouldnt have made pronouncement on the leadership of a political party. It therefore struck out Senator Nenadi Usmans appeal at the Appeal Court and the Labour Party suit at the trial court. The supreme court judgment didnt sack Labour Party national chairman Barrister Julius Abure rather it rightly upheld the preceding and accumulated high courts and appeal court judgments upholding the immutability of responsibility of Labour Party structures to choose its leaders. The judgement did not also set aside the Appeal Court judgement in Labour Party vs Ebiseni and 2 others (CA/ABJ/CV/1172/2024) delivered on the 13 November 2024 which affirmed Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party. The judgement is still valid and subsisting and has not been appealed. The implication is very clear. Barrister Julius Abure remains Labour Party national chairman. The question is: who are the leaders of the party? The party constitution is clear as who are the leaders of the party. The leadership of the party has been the National Working Committee led by Barrister Julius Abure. The party constitution is also clear on who has the power to call for the national convention or any national meeting. Article 14 of 2024 constitution as amended gives powers to the National Secretary of the party ..to issue notices of meetings of the national convention, national executive council, the national working committee in consultation with and approval of the National Chairman. Accordingly, the National convention of the party was called by the leadership of the party on the 27 of March 2024 where the leaders of the party emerged. The report of the National Convention is already with INEC and that leadership is recognized by INEC. The gathering of people in Umuahia is clearly not in line with the constitution and therefore the celebration by some persons that the leadership of Julius Abure has been sacked were only trying to be mischievous and misleading and that the Supreme Court didnt say so. The leadership of the party is therefore satisfied with the judgement of the apex court which goes to reaffirm Barrister Julius Abure as the national chairman of the Labour Party and the current national working committee as validly elected having been duly nominated, endorsed, and ratified through the internal mechanism of the Labour Party statutory organs in line with the partys constitution. We are therefore calling on all true members of the Labour Party to abide by the judgement of the apex court, and to always resort to internal party mechanism in resolving party affairs and not to always rush to the court. It is only the political parties that have the powers to choose its leaders not the courts. Everybody must learn to respect the decisions of the party and its Constitution. The position of the Supreme Court is that the structures of the party is capable of handling any matters as it concerns its affairs and as it is today, the Labour Party National Chairman is and remains Barrister Julius Abure. Sign: Obiora Ifoh National Publicity Secretary Labour Party 04/04/2025 Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The National Judicial Council (NJC) on Friday disowned Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinmas unilateral appointment of Theophilus Nzeukwu as the states acting Chief Judge. In a press statement signed by its Deputy Director of Information, Kemi Ogedengbe, the NJC said it received Governor Uzodinmas letter requesting approval of the appointment of his nominee for the judicial position but has yet to consider it. The statement noted that Mr Uzodinma picked Mr Nzeukwu, who is the fourth on the hierarchy of the states High Court judges, to replace the former Chief Judge of the state, T. E. Chukwuemeka Chikeka, who was sent on compulsory retirement last November for age falsification. It added that Mr Uzodinma, in his letter to the NJC, gave reasons for passing over the three most senior judges in the state to pick Mr Nzeukwu for the vacant role. The council did not share the governors reasons in its statement. The council has not given approval to the governor for the appointment of the Acting Chief Judge, read the statement issued in response to media reports of Mr Nzeukwus appointment as the Acting Chief Judge of Imo State. It added, The council is not a party to the process of purported appointment of Hon. Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu as the Acting Chief Judge. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later According to the statement, the NJC has only scheduled deliberation on the governors request for its meeting slated for 29 and 30 April. Mr Uzodimma on Wednesday announced Mr Nzeukwus appointment as the Acting Chief Judge of Imo State on Wednesday, five months after the NJC recommended the compulsory retirement of the Chief Judge. Disregard for the law? The unilateral appointment of an Acting Chief Judge of a state by a state governor without the approval of the NJC raises a legal issue. Section 271 of the Nigerian constitution provides that the appointment of a Chief Judge in a State High Court shall be made based on the recommendation of the NJC. Any appointment made by the governor without the recommendation of the NJC is only valid for three months and the governor cannot reappoint the same person after the period. So, the governor may not have violated any law if he is recommending Mr Nzeukwu for the role for the first time, and has no plan to renominate him after the expiration of the first three months. Mr Nzeukwus appointment as an Acting Chief Judge is not the first without NJCs recommendation or approval. The NJC suspended Peter Agumagu in 2014, after he was appointed Chief Judge by the Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi at the time. READ ALSO: NJC tackles Benue govt over plan to remove Chief Judge Similarly, in 2018, Obisike Orji, who accepted to be sworn in as the acting Chief Judge of Abia State without NJCs recommendation was forced to proceed on compulsory retirement by the council. Drawing on lessons from history, a judge of the Osun State High Court, David Afolabi, rejected the appointment as the Acting Chief Judge of the state by Governor Ademola Adeleke, citing the Nigerian constitution and judicial precedents. Mr Afolabi took a step further to communicate his decision not to accept the appointment to the NJC, the body statutorily empowered to play the central role in the appointment and discipline of Nigerian judges. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) called, on Friday, the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri to exercise his constitutional powers to spare the life a death row inmate in the state, Sunday Jackson. We call on Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri to exercise his constitutional power of clemency under Section 212 of the Constitution and spare Jacksons life. Justice must never equate to punishment for the defenceless. The Supreme Courts recent death sentence given to Sunday Jackson for the killing of a Fulani herdsman in an alleged act of self-defence is of grave concern. One can describe it as an assault on the soul of human rights in Nigeria, said the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, at the commissions headquarters in Abuja during the commissions latest monthly dashboard presentation on Friday. In March, the Supreme Court upheld the conviction of Mr Jackson for the murder of a herdsman, Babu Bawuro, in Adamawa State. The court ruled that if someone unarms an attacker and does not escape and uses the weapon to attack the unarmed attacker it is considered revenge and not self-defence. However, Mr Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, noted that Section 33 of the Nigerian constitution guarantees the right to life and recognises self-defence as a shield for unlawful violence. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later To sentence Sunday Jackson to death for protecting his own life is a dangerous precedent, he said, criticising the decision of the Supreme Court. NHRC records 246,200 complaints in March During the dashboard presentation, the NHRC announced that 246,200 complaints were submitted in March, a 20 per cent increase from the 205,364 complaints recorded in February. While presenting March report, the Senior Adviser to the NHRC, Hilary Ogbonna, noted key trends in the complaints killings by state actors and the violation of the right of freedom from discrimination, an increase in terrorist attacks, violation of rights by law enforcement and against human dignity, infringement of economic and socio-cultural rights and rule of law and access to justice. Notable among the violations of rights by law enforcement officers was the invasion of Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) headquarters by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) at the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base in Ikeja, Lagos State. PREMIUM TIMES reported how NAF personnel stormed IKEDCs headquarters, attacking staff members and journalists after the company disconnected power to the base over unpaid electricity bills. Similarly, the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) alleged that soldiers of the Nigerian Army attacked its substation in Badagry, Lagos State, over a power outage. Mr Ojukwu condemned the action of the NAF and called on law enforcement agencies to act within the ambit of the law. It is especially shocking that security forces harmed those they should protect. We are seeing a pattern of abuse of authority by those who wear uniforms, and this should be condemned in the strongest terms. Such actions undermine public trust and cannot be tolerated, Mr Ojukwu said. Geopolitical record of complaints North-central continues to maintain the lead in the number of complaints, with 66,219 cases reported in the region in March. The region was followed by South-south with 42,686 reported cases, North-west with 43,934, South-east with 38,121, South-west 28,622 and North-east 26,618. In March, the NHRC documented a total of 221 killings and 88 kidnappings across Nigeria. Kaduna state recorded the highest number of kidnappings with 37 cases, followed by Ondo 24, Bauchi 15, Katsina 12, and Niger State 12. Bandits were responsible for 24 per cent of deaths in March. Boko Haram was said to be responsible for 17 per cent, Lakurawa, 20 per cent; unknown gunmen, eight per cent; herdsmen, six per cent; vigilante, nine per cent; private actors, seven per cent; and state actor,; nine per cent. While explaining the killings by private actors, Mr Ogbonna said, These are individuals, husbands that killed their wives. We have four of such incidents in the month of March, including one that just set his wife ablaze. Another used a machete on his wife. Issues in focus The NHRC focused on these issues in the month of March, vigilantism, killings of military and security personnel and extra-judicial killings. As regards vigilantism, the commission highlighted the killing of 16 travellers in Uromi, Edo State, South-south Nigeria by vigilantes. PREMIUM TIMES reported that the 16 travellers were reportedly lynched after they were mistaken for kidnappers by local vigilantes last week Thursday on the Uromi/Obajana Expressway in the Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State. According to reports, the victims were travelling from Rivers State to Kano for Eid-el-Fitr celebration when they were attacked by local vigilantes. The perpetrators flogged the victims and set them ablaze. The commission noted that 39 law enforcement officers were killed in March including 12 soldiers who were killed by Boko Haram and two by herdsmen in Benue State. Also in March, attacks were recorded in religious communities including the abduction of catholic priests in Anambra, Edo and Imo States. A renowned Quran recitation winner was also abducted alongside his family in Katsina. Aside from the kidnappings, a seminarian was killed in Edo State and a catholic priest in Kaduna State. Trends in the violation of womens and childrens rights In the month under focus, 1,698 complaints of gender-based discrimination, 1,527 harmful cultural practices, 1,562 forceful marriages and 1,502 cases of women trafficking were recorded, according to the NHRC. Also, there were 17 cases of rape a decrease when compared to Februarys report in which the commission recorded 341 rape cases. However, there was an increase in domestic violence with 6272 cases reported in March. The commission said it recorded 2,509 sexual violence cases. The commission noted that child abandonment continued to top the charts of child rights violations due to economic hardship in the country, followed by child marriage, and child labour. Mr Ogbonna noted that 1,186 cases of child abandonment, 655 cases of child marriage, and 600 cases of child labour. Quarterly progressive of NHRC The NHRC announced that it had succeeded in completing investigating 12,545 complaints received in the first quarter of the year. The commission also carried out visitations to 230 correctional and detention centres and 27 military formations. It said it also summoned and sent letters to the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) regarding 465 cases. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Almost the entire Senate considers her a loose cannon that is ready, willing and, above all, ABLE to challenge the autocracy and misogynistic institution that the chamber has become. It is no longer an organisation of peers, as it has lost its collegiate nature. It is today a crass dictatorship run by a dictator who will not even allow distinguished members to vote, as he interprets the voice vote he organises to be what he decides, no matter how loud the nay or ayes voices are. If I had the power to do so, I would name Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan the freedom fighter of the decade. She is an irrepressible combatant for her rights; she lives beyond intimidation as she has no fear; and above all, she is very conscious of her constitutional rights and is ready to fight for them. The most recent episode was when her governor learnt that she was going home for the Sallah celebration with her constituents. He immediately banned public meetings and processions in her constituency, closed all roads leading into the state and barricaded access to the constituency. His concerns were easy to see. He is leading a campaign to recall her and her presence would have revealed the lie that half of her constituency had signed a petition to recall her. By now, virtually all Nigerians know that the signatures were forged. She knew it and had to expose the lie. She checked the law; freedom of movement and association remain fundamental human rights in Nigeria, which no governor could withdraw. She rented a helicopter and went, and the entire country saw the massive and enthusiastic crowd that welcomed her home. Being intimidated is not her portion. Almost the entire Senate considers her a loose cannon that is ready, willing and, above all, ABLE to challenge the autocracy and misogynistic institution that the chamber has become. It is no longer an organisation of peers, as it has lost its collegiate nature. It is today a crass dictatorship run by a dictator who will not even allow distinguished members to vote, as he interprets the voice vote he organises to be what he decides, no matter how loud the nay or ayes voices are. The decision of INEC yesterday that even the forged signatures procured for her recall did not meet the 50 per cent + one requirement, is another dagger at the heart of the Senate dictatorship. The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate is designed to be punitive. Her salaries, allowances, and those of her legislative aides have been halted. Her security details were withdrawn for the period while she was receiving death threats. She is even banned from going anywhere near the National Assembly building. She was ordered to go on her knees and beg, but has refused to do so and continues the struggle. It would be recalled that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the brave warrior, had accused Mr Akpabio, the Senate president, of sexual harassment, but the upper Chamber had dismissed the allegations in a cavalier manner. Senator Akpoti reported the matter, along with her suspension from the Senate, to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), a move that shocked and destabilised the Senate. After all, they know that the evidence is clear that the Nigerian Senates decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months is an unconstitutional move that undermines democracy and sets a dangerous precedent for legislative governance. The suspension of an elected senator contradicts Sections 68 and 69 of the 1999 Constitution, which clearly outline the lawful processes for a legislator to lose his or her seat. Section 68(1) & (2) states that a legislators seat can only be declared vacant under specific circumstances such as resignation, defection, conviction, or recall by constituents through the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Section 69 stipulates that the recall process is the only constitutional means of removing an elected legislator, making the Senates decision legally baseless. By suspending Senator Natasha, the Senate has effectively denied the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District their right to representation an action that constitutes an abuse of power. Many judicial rulings have consistently declared legislative suspensions as unlawful. The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate is designed to be punitive. Her salaries, allowances, and those of her legislative aides have been halted. Her security details were withdrawn for the period while she was receiving death threats. She is even banned from going anywhere near the National Assembly building. She was ordered to go on her knees and beg, but has refused to do so and continues the struggle. She filed a contempt suit against Imasuen, the Senate committee chair on ethics, privileges, and public petitions, and president, Akpabio, over her suspension. Before her suspension, the Federal High Court in Abuja had restrained the Senate committee on ethics, privileges, and public petitions from conducting disciplinary proceedings against her. Obiora Egwuatu, the presiding judge, gave the order following an ex parte application filed by counsels to the Kogi senator. But despite this, the senator was suspended 48 hours after. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later One of the strengths of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is her commitment to building projects and distributing empowerment materials to her constituents. After just one year in Senate, the projects she launched in her constituency included: construction of a one-kilometre road network at Abdul Azeez Memorial College in Okene; the reconstruction of the college, which now comprises nine classroom blocks, four boarding houses, and 5,000 digital learning devices for students. One of the clearest signs of the crisis of democracy in Nigeria is that elected legislators and executives believe and act as if the own the people. They are rude and dismissive when addressing citizens and literally expect ordinary people to hold them in awe and respect. They have completely lost sight of the core principle of representative democracy that the citizens are the masters, and the only mandate of elected officials is to do what pleases the citizen. Of course, what has created a great power asymmetry in Nigeria is that our elected representatives are among the richest in the world, as they funnel resources from the public purse to their private pockets in a society that has become one of the poorest in the world. We cannot begin to address the problem of disrespect to citizens until we are able stop public office from being a permanent site of the looting of the national treasury. One of the strengths of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is her commitment to building projects and distributing empowerment materials to her constituents. After just one year in Senate, the projects she launched in her constituency included: construction of a one-kilometre road network at Abdul Azeez Memorial College in Okene; the reconstruction of the college, which now comprises nine classroom blocks, four boarding houses, and 5,000 digital learning devices for students. Reconstruction of Ihima Police Station; a scholarship scheme through the Natasha Foundation has supported empowerment programmes have trained over 1,300 artisans in various fields, from renewable energy to catering, with start-up grants provided for all participants; water projects that have brought potable water to many communities, including a large solar-powered system that serves 300 locations with 1,800 water taps; and lighting 30-kilometres of roads across Kogi Central to enhance safety. If more Nigerians learn to defend their rights and freedoms, the lack of accountability that surrounds the exercise of power will begin to weaken. May we all learn to struggle for ourselves and our society. A professor of Political Science and development consultant/expert, Jibrin Ibrahim is a Senior Fellow of the Centre for Democracy and Development, and Chair of the Editorial Board of PREMIUM TIMES. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Russian disinformation messages in Africa and Europe can have serious consequences for international support for Ukraine and the global perception of the war. In Europe, they undermine unity regarding sanctions and military aid, decrease trust in the Ukrainian government, and fuel public war fatigue. In Africa, these narratives contribute to distancing from Ukraine and create a false impression of the Russo-Ukrainian war as part of the struggle against Western imperialism... To counter this, it is essential to strengthen strategic communications tailored to different audiences. The Image of Ukraine Cultivated by Russian Propaganda in European and African Media For years, Ukraine has been one of the primary targets of Russias propaganda machine. Initially, Russia aimed to destabilise the internal situation in Ukraine by creating division, fragmenting the society into opposing groups, undermining Ukraines agency and national identity, and portraying the country as inferior a younger brother to the great Russia. This laid the groundwork for the annexation of Crimea and the invasion of Ukraine in 2014. Even after 2014, Russia continued its efforts to divide Ukrainian society, denying the presence of its troops in Ukraine and shifting the blame for Crimeas annexation onto Ukraine itself. As 2022 approached, Russia intensified its disinformation campaigns, preparing the information space for a full-scale invasion. In this article, we explore this process in greater detail and examine how it connects to Russias influence in African countries. How Russia Constructs a False Image of Ukraine and Why It Does So Russia has spread disinformation not only within Ukraine but also about Ukraine abroad, in the information spaces of dozens of countries across different continents. The goal of Russian disinformation, in this case, as in any other, is to help it, as a state, achieve its political objectives. Therefore, Russia seeks to create an image of Ukraine that is alternative to reality and beneficial specifically to it. The formation of such an image is part of a large-scale information war aimed at achieving several strategic goals, which we have already mentioned. First and foremost, this includes justifying its own aggression and delegitimising Ukrainian statehood. The Kremlin systematically attempts to portray Ukraine as a failed, corrupt, or externally controlled state in order to undermine its international support and justify the war in the eyes of audiences around the world. Another important goal is to fracture the international coalition supporting Ukraine. In Europe, Russia promotes narratives about Ukraine fatigue, the ineffectiveness of aid, and the need for negotiations to reduce military and financial support. Meanwhile, in African countries, it constructs an image of Ukraine as part of a Western colonial conspiracy, attempting to strengthen its own position as the protector of the Global South. In this way, Russia seeks not only to isolate Ukraine but also to weaken the West as a whole, sowing doubts about its policies and intentions. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Additionally, the alternative image of Ukraine serves for internal mobilisation within Russia itself. The Kremlin demonises Ukraine in order to maintain internal cohesion and justify repression against dissenters. It is important for the Russian authorities to ensure that citizens do not question the legitimacy of the war and do not seek alternative sources of information. Ultimately, the creation of a distorted image of Ukraine is part of a broader strategy aimed at manipulating global opinion and shifting the balance of power. Russia is acting not only against Ukraine but also against the international order, where it seeks to restore its influence by using disinformation as a tool of hybrid warfare. So, what kind of image does Russia create for Ukraine in European countries? The image of Ukraine shaped by Russian propaganda for Western audiences has evolved over the years of full-scale war, depending on the context and events both in Ukraine and in the countries where pro-Russian messages are disseminated. Russian propaganda is adaptive and flexible: before producing messages, it studies the target audience and its vulnerabilities to craft narratives that will be most effective. At the beginning of Russias full-scale war against Ukraine, the messages shaping Ukraines image also served to justify Russias actions. These included accusations of Ukraine being Nazi, cruel, Russophobic, and engaging in atrocities against civilians in Donetsk and Luhansk. Through such messages, Russia portrayed Ukraine as the aggressor, justifying its invasion by creating the illusion that the Russian government had no other choice but to protect Ukrainians, including Russian-speaking ones, from an illegitimate Ukrainian government. At that time, Russia also promoted the image of Ukraine as a puppet state supposedly controlled from abroad, particularly by the United States. This narrative further justified Russias actions, implying that it was protecting Ukrainians from Western colonisation. In African countries, Russian propaganda creates a completely different image of Ukraine, tailored to the local context and perception. By adapting disinformation to local contexts, Russia makes it more targeted and, consequently, more influential. While in the EU countries, Russia portrays Ukraine as Nazi, a beggar, and corrupt, in African countries, the image of Ukraine has shifted: in these information spaces, Ukraine is portrayed as the main colonialist, the provocateur of poverty, and the destroyer of traditional values. However, since Russian propaganda adapts its messages to the context, now, in the fourth year of the full-scale war, the key set of narratives has shifted to the following: Ukraine is a burdensome drain. It is portrayed as a country that constantly requires financial and military aid, thereby exhausting European economies. The focus is on Ukraine fatigue and the narrative that supporting Kyiv allegedly harms ordinary European Union citizens. Ukraine is a corrupt state. This message suggests that Ukraine is doomed to corruption and does not deserve aid because it will inevitably be stolen. This discredits Kyiv in the eyes of European politicians and society. Ukraine is a dictatorship that suppresses dissent. Russian propaganda highlights the banning of pro-Russian parties and media, attempting to present Ukraine as a state where there is no freedom of speech and the opposition is persecuted. Ukraine cannot win. Russia promotes the idea that military support for Ukraine is futile because it has no chance of victory. This aims to demotivate partners from continuing to supply weapons and financial assistance. Ukraine is an obstacle to world peace. Ukraine is depicted as the side unwilling to engage in peace talks, while Europe allegedly suffers from the war due to the actions of the Ukrainian government. All these messages are aimed at undermining support for Ukraine among European politicians and society, creating tension between Kyiv and its partners, and pressuring the West to reduce aid. The mechanism works as follows: Russia turns Western societies against Ukraine, and in turn, these societies influence their governments, demanding a change in policy toward Ukraine. Ukraine through the Eyes of Russian Propaganda in African Countries In African countries, Russian propaganda creates a completely different image of Ukraine, tailored to the local context and perception. By adapting disinformation to local contexts, Russia makes it more targeted and, consequently, more influential. While in the EU countries, Russia portrays Ukraine as Nazi, a beggar, and corrupt, in African countries, the image of Ukraine has shifted: in these information spaces, Ukraine is portrayed as the main colonialist, the provocateur of poverty, and the destroyer of traditional values. In particular, several key messages about Ukraine spread by Russia in African countries can be highlighted: Ukraine is part of the Western colonial conspiracy. In this context, Ukraine is depicted as a vassal of the West, acting in the interests of the USA and the EU, rather than as an independent state. Russia, in contrast, positions itself as the protector of the Global South and a fighter against colonialism. Ukraine is responsible for the food crisis. Propaganda claims that Ukraine and its allies use grain as a geopolitical weapon, deliberately blocking supplies to poor countries and causing rising food prices. Meanwhile, Russia presents itself as the saviour providing Africa with Russian wheat. Ukraine is the enemy of traditional values. In this case, Russia imposes the narrative that Ukraine shares Western immorality and introduces foreign social norms to Africa, such as excessive feminism or LGBT ideology. The provocateur of war. Ukraine is portrayed as the country that provoked the war, didnt want peace, and didnt comply with the Minsk agreements. In this way, Russia seeks to legitimise its aggression. Ukraine is a country that will soon cease to exist. Russian propaganda promotes the idea that Ukraine is an artificial state formation that will disintegrate due to the war, internal conflicts, and its inability to exist independently. These messages aim to strengthen pro-Russian sentiments in Africa, undermine trust in Ukraine and its partners, and justify Russian aggression as a fight for historical justice. A Few Examples In a study by the Ukrainian organisation, Detector Media, whose researchers analysed data on Ukraine in the media of the Global South, it is noted that the Nigerian media spread messages suggesting that the Western support for Ukraine is greater than the support for Nigeria, which faces numerous security challenges (the Boko Haram terrorist group in the North-East, militants in the Niger Delta, farmer clashes, Igbo separatism). Such messages are needed by Russia to turn the Nigerian society and neighbouring countries against Ukraine. It is suggested that it is because of Ukraine that countries in the Global South do not receive support, as if African peoples are suffering because of Ukraine. According to the study, the most common Russian narrative in the media of the Global South is the alleged historical continuity and all-encompassing corruption in Ukraine. Nigerian media emphasised the long history of chronic corruption, while Brazilian media reminded people that Ukraine was one of the richest regions of the USSR but became the poorest and most corrupt country. Kazakhstani media wrote that before providing support to Ukraine, one should remember how corrupt it is. Many disinformation messages in the media of African countries were aimed at discrediting the Ukrainian authorities, particularly President Volodymyr Zelensky and his wife, Olena Zelenska. According to research by the Molfar agency and the Centre for Countering Disinformation, the following messages were found in the information space of African countries, including Nigeria Russian propaganda occasionally accuses Ukraine and its partners of lying. Open accusations of lies by Western media were also spread in Nigeria. For example, a message was circulated claiming that Facebook had blocked the largest Russian language media account of the propaganda outlet, Russia Today, supposedly without explanation. There were also widespread messages about alleged repression against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC MP). The Nigerian media wrote about representatives of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, calling them unordained schismatics, and their ministry in the Holy Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra would be a great shame for all of Ukraine. In general, the Russian Church is widespread in African countries, and the Russian army does everything to strengthen its influence. According to research by the publication, Texty, the main church institution through which Russian narratives are promoted on the African continent is the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa, created in December 2021. After the Alexandrian Patriarchate recognised the autocephaly of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) in 2019, the Russian Orthodox Church decided to remove its parishes in Africa from the jurisdiction of the Alexandrian Patriarchate and make them autonomous. This was called the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa. Its centres operate in 23 countries on the continent, which is slightly less than half. The creation of a separate structure allowed the Russian Orthodox Church to establish systematic propaganda work. African priests are taken to Russia for training, where they attend military forums in Moscow. After such ideological processing, under the guise of religious training, priests from Africa begin to praise the Russian Special Military Operation and generally repeat Russian fakes about Ukraine, writes Texty. Many disinformation messages in the media of African countries were aimed at discrediting the Ukrainian authorities, particularly President Volodymyr Zelensky and his wife, Olena Zelenska. According to research by the Molfar agency and the Centre for Countering Disinformation, the following messages were found in the information space of African countries, including Nigeria: A luxury villa belonging to the family of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was found on the shores of Egypt. Olena Zelenska spent $1 million shopping in New York. Olena Zelenskas foundation is involved in child trafficking. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky bought yachts worth $75 million. Zelensky bought the villa of Nazi propaganda minister Goebbels. Almost all materials in African media were signed under fictitious names and were later deleted from the websites. A number of fakes were actively republished by Russian propaganda media. For example, the heroine of the fake about Zelenskas shopping a store employee who was fired after the supposed visit of Ukraines First Lady turned out to be a native of Cameroon, who has lived in Russia since 2017 and is studying to become a doctor in St. Petersburg, the study states. Conclusion Russian disinformation messages in Africa and Europe can have serious consequences for international support for Ukraine and the global perception of the war. In Europe, they undermine unity regarding sanctions and military aid, decrease trust in the Ukrainian government, and fuel public war fatigue. In Africa, these narratives contribute to distancing from Ukraine and create a false impression of the Russo-Ukrainian war as part of the struggle against Western imperialism. To counter this, it is essential to strengthen strategic communications tailored to different audiences. In Africa, in particular, there should be a more active effort to share Ukraines history, cooperation with Global South countries, and the real reasons behind the war, while also debunking Russian myths about the fight against colonialism. It is also important to understand that today one of the targets of Russian disinformation is Ukraine. And it is difficult to predict who will be the next target. Olha Bilousenko is a Ukrainian journalist, disinformation expert, and researcher. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Kaduna State Commissioner of Health, Umma Ahmad has commended Governor Uba Sani for revamping the health sector of the state through infrastructural development, facilities upgrade and equipping of primary as well as secondary health care facilities in the last 22 months. The commissioner outlined the achievements of the Uba Sani administration in the health sector at a ministerial press briefing which was held at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna . She said that the governors interventions have been producing positive outcomes. According to her, Kaduna State achieved 100% coverage of public health facilities in the distribution of medicines last year, a feat that was confirmed by the Federal Ministry of Health. Kaduna State Health Supplies Management Agency has received 10 prestigious awards, including the coveted award for Excellence In Supply Chain, which was presented by the International Supply Chain Education Alliance, Mrs Ahmad disclosed. She further stated that the National Product Supply Chain (NPSC) had ranked Kaduna State as one of the first sub nationals to reach the Maturing Ready To Integrate Level for public health supply chains for essential medicines, demonstrating its preparedness for an efficient State Health Supply Systems (SHSS). Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mrs Ahmad said that Kaduna State won the Leadership Challenge award for the North West zone in 2024, a feat which she attributed to Governor Uba Sanis positive interventions in the health sector. She announced that the 255 primary healthcare centres (PHCs) in Kaduna State were being upgraded to Level two for basic emergency obstetrics and neonatal care to curtail maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity. Thirteen secondary health care facilities out of the 33 General Hospitals are being rehabilitated and equipped. Contract has been awarded for the reconstruction, remodelling and equipping of additional health facilities at the Yusuf Dantsoho Memorial Hospital, Tudun Wada, she added. According to the commissioner, the Sani administration has renovated and equipped the warehouse of Kaduna State Health Supplies Management Agency (KADHSMA) to a pharma-grade standard, which has 1,600 sqm with storage capacity of 8,000 cubic metres of pharmaceutical products, with a well equipped quality control laboratory. She further stated that Kaduna State Government has procured and distributed over 975 stock keeping units (SKUs) for public health facilities in the State, distributed state-of-the-art equipment to 290 PHC centres to aid diagnostic and therapeutic services. Mrs Ahmad disclosed that Governor Sani had flagged-off the distribution of free, essential medicines to all local government councils, targeting the under-served communities, with a view to expanding access to commodities and health care. The commissioner declared that the states 300-bed Specialist Hospital has the capacity to provide specialised care nationwide as well as the potential of stemming medical tourism when completed. She affirmed that the hospital would soon be commissioned because all civil works have already been fully completed while 85% of the equipment have been installed. The commissioner praised Governor Sani for ensuring improved health financing stressing that his administration increased enrollment rate for health insurance from 527,303 in 2023 to 639,432 in 2024, equivalent to a 21.3% increase. Furthermore, the governor approved the enrolment of 70,000 vulnerable population into the Social Health insurance scheme under the Kaduna State Contributory Health Management Authority (KADCHMA). In addition, he released N52,000,000 as 25% counterpart contribution for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) programme for the enrolment of additional 4,333 vulnerable persons, she disclosed. According to Mrs Ahmad, Kaduna State Government has sustained the allocation of not less than 15% of the state financing to the health sector as prescribed by the Abuja declaration, a feat that is yet to be surpassed at the federal level. The commissioner further disclosed that Governor Sani has approved the recruitment of 1, 800 health workers yearly across all the PHCs in the state, for the next four years. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Nigerian security forces have rescued an Israeli national from kidnappers in Taraba State. The state police commands public relations officer, James Saminu, confirmed this in a statement issued on Friday. He said Gil Itamar, an employee of a construction company SCC, was kidnapped on Thursday morning in Atim, a community lying along the TakumChanchanji road. Information was received via a phone call from one Alhaji Saidu, a staff member of SCC in Takum, that at about 09:15 hours on the same date, Mr Gil Itamar, an Israeli national and SCC employee, was kidnapped by armed hoodlums at Atim Community along the TakumChanchanji road while under military escort. Upon receiving the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Takum promptly mobilised his personnel alongside operatives from the 67 PMF, in collaboration with the military and local hunters, and stormed the scene. A rigorous cordon, search, and rescue operation ensued, which led to the successful rescue of the victim at Kofai Ahmadu after a heavy exchange of gunfire. The kidnappers were overwhelmed and forced to flee. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The rescued Israeli is currently receiving medical attention at SCCs medical facility in Takum. He said. Mr Saminu said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects. Meanwhile, the commissioner of police, Bretet Simon, commended the officers and other security personnel involved in the operation and reiterated the polices commitment to protecting lives and property in Taraba State. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Some residents of Kogi Central Senatorial District on Thursday vowed never to back down on the process to recall their senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, from the National Assembly. Rather, they insisted that they would fine-tune the process. The petitioners, in a statement issued on Thursday by Salihu Habib, said there was no going back on their resolve to recall the senator who is believed by many to enjoy the support of the majority of the members of her constituency. The petitioners, however, thanked the Independent National Electoral Commission for allegedly validating 208,132 (43.86 per cent) signatures in the petition earlier submitted to it for Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghans recall even though INEC has not said it validated the signatures. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the renewed determination by the concerned constituents was sequel to INECs declaration of some defects in the recall petition they had hitherto presented to it. INEC had, in a statement on Thursday, said the petition failed to meet the minimum requirement prescribed by the Constitution. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later .The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) hereby notifies the public that the petition for the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, which was submitted to the Commission on Monday 24h March 2025 by representatives of the petitioners who are registered voters in the constituency, has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), the statement said. It added. Consequently, no further action shall be taken on the petition, However, the petitioners, who said they are registered voters of Kogi Central, said that they had mobilised more than the 50 per cent plus one threshold of registered voters and submitted their petition with full documentation. They, however, noted that the alleged validation of 43.86 per cent by INEC was a confirmation that Kogi Central constituents had rejected the senator. Apparently, INEC cancelled not less than 35,000 signatures from the administrative signatures collected. We will liaise with INEC within the full ambits of the constitution and regulations to demand for transparency in the handling of our petition. We have utmost confidence in the commission not to subject the recall process to ambiguity or administrative opacity, they said. The petitioners expressed gratitude to INEC for proving naysayers, who queried the authenticity of their figures, wrong. We thank INEC for making it clear that the bulk of the people of Kogi Central are behind us and that we did not import a crowd like a desperate, embattled lawmaker, they said. The petitioners insisted that the recall of Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan for misconduct and divisiveness was non-negotiable. We are firm in our resolve to restore dignified and collaborative representation to Kogi Central senatorial district. We will no longer indulge someone who will do and say anything just to remain politically relevant. The whole of Nigeria watched her deceptive rally last Tuesday where she openly made comments capable of setting, not just Kogi State, but Nigeria ablaze. We will pursue all lawful and constitutional means to ensure our voices are heard and respected. After God, power belongs to the people, they stated. Last week, the petitioners, under the aegis of Concerned Kogi Youth and Women, submitted a petition to INEC for the recall of Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan. READ ALSO: Wike reacts to collapse rumour They said they had lost confidence in her and that the petition should commence her recall. Although, the commission initially said the petition lacked details, it subsequently wrote the senator and the Senate leadership information them of the process in line with Section 69 of the constitution. Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan has been on suspension since 6 March for allegedly breaching the Senate rules earlier in February. She defied the ban on rallies by the police and the Kogi State Government to address her supporters in her hometown after flying into the state by helicopter. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has said her resort to the use of helicopter to her hometown was her husbands idea. Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan disclosed this on Thursday when she appeared on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television. The senator had on Tuesday flew into her hometown, Ihima in Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, where she addressed a large crowd of supporters. A day before the trip, the state government had placed a ban on political rallies and public gatherings, citing security concerns. The police command in the state also noted it had credible intelligence that hoodlums planned to hijack the gathering to unleash mayhem. Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan and her supporters, however, defied this ban to hold the gathering. She explained that several checkpoints had been erected on the way to her hometown, prompting her to explore other options until her husband suggested that they used a helicopter. The lawmaker landed and left the state by helicopter. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later It was my husbands idea. You know they blocked all the roads leading to my house so my husband suggested we fly with a helicopter, she said, claiming that she was the target of the restriction. I broke no law The embattled lawmaker maintained that she did not break any law during her homecoming gathering and visit to the state. There was no law broken and I dont think the state governor has the right to dictate what I speak and how I speak to my people. She explained that several checkpoints had been erected on the way to her hometown, prompting her to explore other options until her husband suggested that they used a helicopter. Relationship with Gov Ododo On her relationship with the state governor, Usman Ododo, Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan said I thought we were cool, until he took heed of ex-Governor Yahaya Bellos request, which was to align with my recall. She said at least four of the 14 individuals who signed the cover page of the petition for her recall were Mr Ododos aides, adding that the governor gave approval for the process. I was actually surprised at that, and if you watched my speech at my hometown, I did mention that the senate president first called on Governor Ododo to commence my recall, but he turned that down. And later on, two days after, on the 14th day of March this year, Godswill Akpabio called on Yahaya Bello to commence my recall. And what did Yahaya Bello do? He tasked Ododo, and Ododo could not say noThe first cover letter were all signed by special advisers to Ododo himself, she said. Thumbs-up for INEC The lawmaker appreciated INEC for throwing out the petition seeking her recall, noting that the petition shouldve been thrown out earlier. She said her team checked at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and found that the group that wrote the petition was not registered and that the address given by the petitioners does not exist. The address provided there is number four, Oboroke, Kogi State. I bet you there is no address like that. Oboroke is just five minutes away from me. I did send people there. There is no address. Most of the streets in my hometown are not labeled, she said. What Im going to say is, even though INEC did count 208 signatures, I bet you, if they had gone into the next stage the verification stage, they would have struggled to even have 500 people come out to attest to signing that. Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan said she is not worried about a recall even if the petitioners restart the process again. Im not worried because I trust my people, and my people connect with me, she said. They resonate with the idea that I project, and they are actually very happy with the manner in which I have represented them. They are very happy with me. My election was not one that was apolitical. It wasnt just PDP that voted for me. Even the APC card carrying members and other parties voted for me. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A former Director-General of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC), Maharazu Tsiga, on Thursday said he was able to come out alive from kidnappers den by the help and mercies of God. Mr Tsiga, a retired brigadier general, said this when he and 18 other victims were reunited with their families by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, in Abuja. Mr Tsiga regained his freedom after spending 56 days in captivity having been abducted from his hometown Tsiga, in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State on 5 February, alongside nine other residents. He said his safe return was the kind of situation worthy of celebration. He said that apart from the danger he and victims faced from their abductors, they were equally confronted with the risk of being hurt by wild animals in the mountain in which they were kept. The day before yesterday, on the mountain I was staying, unexpectedly, we just look around, we saw hyena parading around us to get its own food. And which kind of food? We, the human beings. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Those of us that experienced that place, we always stay with snakes, scorpions. And one bad experience, particularly for those of us who, they knew our rank, whenever they are being attacked, sincerely speaking, they bring us out, so that the aircraft can hit us. But you know God is merciful. When a rocket was sent to us, it did not explode. They carried that rocket and kept it where I am sleeping so that immediately I come and touch it, it will explode. And that is why I told us, God is merciful, he said. The former NYSC DG also revealed that the nature of food they were fed was another threat to his health. According to Mr Tsiga, the terrorists said that those of them that were in uniform, government is always putting money for them to keep. The retired army general also revealed that the terrorists only feared military aircraft, adding that they did not even fear God but military aircraft. Mr Tsiga called on all Nigerians to join hands to fight and defeat insecurity in the country, saying that security should be seen as a collective responsibility of all. We should not sit down and believe that the government can do it alone. We must do it ourselves. So we thank Almighty God for giving us this opportunity to live again, he said. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print More than 30 years later, the dried blood stains remain visible on the uniform New Cumberland Police Officer Willis Cole wore as he died. A jagged tear splits the shirt from top to bottom, and original 1994 evidence tags still dangle from the uniforms buttoned pocket. Now framed, Coles uniform sat on display as Cumberland County District Attorney Sean McCormack announced the results of last weeks retrial that again sought the death penalty for Coles killer. Seifullah Abdul-Salaam, now 54, will spend the rest of his life in prison without parole after a Cumberland County jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict sentencing him to life or death, McCormack said. The jury did not return the life sentence, he said. The life sentence was automatically imposed because that jury could not reach a unanimous decision. In August 1994, Abdul-Salaam fatally shot Cole during a robbery at a New Cumberland coin shop, The Sentinel reported in 2018. Cole was attempting to apprehend a different suspect while Abdul-Salaam fled the scene, according to the article. Abdul-Salaam then returned, ran toward Cole and opened fire. He was convicted of first-degree murder the following year and sentenced to death, The Sentinel reported in 2019. However in the years that followed, Abdul-Salaam appealed the conviction and death sentence. In July 2018, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit granted him a resentencing that couldnt overturn the conviction but could replace his death sentence with life in prison without parole. The court had ruled that his defense did not properly introduce evidence of abuse Abdul-Salaam had suffered as a child. Former District Attorney Skip Ebert sought to reinstate the death penalty, an effort McCormack also pursued upon taking office in 2022. McCormack said the retrial was delayed a few years due to appeals from the state. Last weeks retrial included more than three days of defense mitigation testimony about Abdul-Salaams life and poor childhood, he said. We wanted to balance that testimony with victim impact testimony, McCormack said. That is testimony about what the death and murder of Will Cole meant to his family, meant to his widow, meant to his son, meant to his sister, meant to the community. He said prosecutors were not allowed to present that testimony because it was not permitted in 1994, though victim impact testimonies can be included now. I do believe that should we have been allowed to present this testimony, perhaps, perhaps we would have had a different verdict, McCormack said. On Friday morning, Common Pleas Judge Jessica Brewbaker formally sentenced Abdul-Salaam to life without parole. Coles sister, Wendy Cole Albert, said it was excruciating to see the death sentence overturned, adding, it feels that justice has been compromised. My heart will forever ache for my brother who I loved, she said. Oren Bud Kauffman, then New Cumberland police chief, said even after 30 years, it still hurt to talk about what happened. So many people in our department were haunted by this, he said. Kauffman told Abdul-Salaam he had received a gift in a life sentence without parole, imploring him to use it to change his path and help others. Abdul-Salaam thanked the jury and his attorneys during his sentencing Friday morning, apologizing to Kauffman and the New Cumberland community. Im sorry, he told members of the Cole family. Im sorry for what my actions caused. I just hope that you can heal and your family can heal. McCormack believes its the first time Abdul-Salaam has publicly admitted to the crime. With a decade-long moratorium on death penalty executions in Pennsylvania, McCormack has received questions about why he chose to pursue the sentence for a 30-year-old case. I was asked a number of times, why are you wasting time doing the retrial in the penalty phase, he said. We havent executed anyone in Pennsylvania for so many years, why are we wasting time? We were not wasting time. This is an important issue. This was an important trial, and this was an important statement by our office as to the importance of the lives of these officers. He said while the moratorium continues now, a future governor could choose to lift it, adding that when he became a district attorney he took an oath to uphold and enforce the law. My job is not to write the law, McCormack said. My personal opinions on whether the death penalty is appropriate or not appropriate is not mine to make ... the citizens of Pennsylvania, through their representatives in the legislature, have made the death penalty an option and it is one that if it applies to a case, I feel as district attorney that I must follow the law. The state requires an aggravating circumstance to seek capital punishment, and McCormack identified four: the killing of a police officer, Abdul-Salaams prior record of violence, the fact he committed the murder during a robbery and the fact that he left the scene and returned before making the choice to shoot Cole. While McCormack said Abdul-Salaams retrial and resentencing ripped open old wounds, he hopes healing can now begin. I hope the process that we went through and the very eloquent and moving words during the victim impact testimony that we had this morning do change his heart and do help him going forward, he said of Abdul-Salaam. And I really hope that it helps the family going forward and ... I hope it helps the community to heal. The Federal High Court in Lagos, South-west Nigeria, on Thursday, rejected a suit challenging the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. Delivering judgement, the judge, Akintayo Aluko, held that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear the suit. But instead of striking out the case, he ordered its transfer to the Lagos State High Court, which he considered to have the jurisdiction over the matter, to hear it. The controversial 700-kilometre Lagos-Calabar coastal highway, which the federal government estimated would cost N15 trillion and take eight years to be completed, has been steeped in controversy. The contract was awarded last year to Hitech Construction Company Limited on an Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Financing (EPC+F) arrangement without bidding or open tender. It raised transparency and conflict of interest concerns from Nigerians, who pointed to the longstanding close relationship between Hitechs owners, Ronald and Gilbert Chagoury, and President Bola Tinubu. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The first phase of the coastal road, which stretches 47.47 kilometres from Lagos, sparked outrage after the federal government demolished Landmark Beach Resort in Victoria Island. The popular resort accommodated several businesses and was valued at over $200 million. In May 2024, the Minister of Works and Housing, Dave Umahi, disclosed that 750 houses on the path of the highway had been marked for demolition. The legal battle Some indigenes and other owners of properties around the Okun-Ajah community in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of the state, whose properties were affected by the design of the project, sued the federal government at the Federal High Court in Lagos over the project. According to a report by Channels TV, the plaintiffs included Saheed Olukosi, a chief of the Okun-Ajah community; Issa Afolayan, Yussuf Sulaiman and others representing the community. The defendants sued in the suit are Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Umahi; Olukorede Keisha; the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing; Attorney-General of Lagos State; Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development; Surveyor-General of Lagos State; General Manager, Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority; General Manager, Lagos State Building Control Agency and Hitech Construction Limited. The plaintiffs asked the court to stop the project to put an end to alleged encroachment on their landed properties. They asked the court to set aside the designs, plans of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway that encroached into their parcels of land. They also sought an order restraining the 1st-3rd and 9th defendants from encroaching, trespassing, and diverting the construction of the LagosCalabar Coastal Road into their land. They also sought damages for acts of trespassing on the land in dispute. Fighting back The respondents filed a preliminary objection against the suit, insisting that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction to hear it. The plaintiffs lawyer urged the court to reject the preliminary objection. But the legal team submitted an alternative request calling on the court to transfer the suit to the appropriate court, should the judge find that the court lacked jurisdiction to adjudicate over the case. The plaintiffs specifically urged the judge to transfer the suit to the Lagos State High Court as the court with competent jurisdiction to hear it, instead of striking it out. Judgement Ruling on the notices of the preliminary objection coming from the foregoing, the issues in the two notices of preliminary objection of the 1st 3rd defendants and that of the 9th defendant are resolved in favour of the objectors against the plaintiffs. I agree with counsel on this request as this court possesses the needed power and jurisdiction to accede to such prayer. He explained that the court is empowered under Section 22(2) of the Federal High Court Act which provides thus: no matter shall be struck out by the court merely on the ground that such cause or matter was taken in the court instead of the High Court of a State or of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja in which it ought to have been brought. The Objections of the 1st 3rd and 9th Defendants/Objectors are therefore sustained. This court has no jurisdiction to adjudicate over the subject matter in this case. Pursuant to section 22(2) of the Federal High Court Act, this suit is accordingly transferred to the Lagos State High Court as the appropriate court for adjudication. Mr Aluko held. The project The controversial highway project is designed to link the former capital city to Calabar, a port city near the border with Cameroon. The government said it would ease transportation across the country. In November 2024, PREMIUM TIMES reported that the federal government increased the compensation amount for property owners affected by the construction of Section 1, Phase 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. The government increased the compensation sum from the initial N8 billion to about N18 billion. The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, made the disclosure at a stakeholders engagement on the ongoing construction of Phase 1, Sections 1 and 11 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, on Sunday in Lagos. In February, Mr Umahi said N15 billion had been disbursed for the first phase of compensation to owners of demolished properties along Section One of the Lagos-Calabar Highway has been disbursed. But even with increase in the compensation allocation to N18 billion, many affected property owners, including those who sued the federal government over the project, rejected the compensation offer, describing it as insufficient compared to the actual value of their properties. For instance, in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, a retired banker, Emeka Mewu, described the compensation offered him as meagre compared to the value of his property. He said, My property was valued at over N400 million, both the land and developments thereon, which were four bungalows, but I was just given N3.3 million. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print DETROIT, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Wayne State University alumnus James A. Anderson (BSCE '66, MSCE '70) and his wife, Patricia, have made a $50 million gift to the university to accelerate research, entrepreneurship and student success in the College of Engineering. In recognition of this historic investment, the college will be renamed the James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering. It is the largest single gift in Wayne State's 157-year history and represents a lead gift for the university's upcoming comprehensive fundraising campaign, expected to launch in fall 2026. James Anderson and his wife, Patricia, are with Wayne State President Dr. Kimberly Andrews Espy after Friday's announcement of the Anderson's $50 million gift. This transformative gift will be focused on faculty support, including doctoral fellowships, undergraduate student experiences and a dean's fund, which will empower the college to recruit more top faculty and Ph.D. students, driving faculty research in mobility, energy storage, AI and other rapidly growing fields. The gift will also strengthen student initiatives, creating a direct line between students and life-changing careers that drive economic growth and innovation, as reflected in the university's Prosperity Agenda. "With Jim and Patti's passion for engineering and entrepreneurship, and their enduring commitment to Wayne State, it is fitting that the college will now be named for two of our greatest advocates," said Dr. Kimberly Andrews Espy, Wayne State's president. "We will build on more than a century of engineering talent that created a culture of innovation in our city, and the James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering will be known as Detroit's engineering school, setting a new standard of discovery and invention for generations." Jim Anderson is president and CEO of Urban Science, a leading automotive consultancy and technology firm headquartered in Detroit, with 20 offices around the world. His career began in 1967 as an instructor at the College of Engineering, where he developed environmental models and computer mapping techniques to display data foundational elements of his firm's business model aimed at creating cohesion and clarity for automakers and their dealers, and the AdTech firms that support them, in even the most ambiguous market conditions. "Since my time as a student, and later a faculty member, at Wayne State University, I've witnessed firsthand the power of a quality STEM education in transforming lives, economies and communities," said Jim Anderson. "My wife, Patricia, and I are humbled and grateful for the opportunity to expand our commitment to this renowned institution a world-class training ground for Detroit's next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs. We're confident this gift will continue to create new opportunities for high-paying STEM careers, foster innovation and drive progress in the Motor City and beyond, and we're honored to work alongside WSU's esteemed leadership to bring it to fruition." In 2014, the Andersons established The James and Patricia Anderson Engineering Ventures Institute at WSU's College of Engineering. The institute fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among students and faculty envisioning commercial applications for new technology, securing patents and establishing startups while providing opportunities for students to learn best practices in applied research, technology commercialization and business creation. "We are grateful for this gift, which arrives at a moment when our existing work meets innovation to create an unparalleled future opportunity," said James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering Dean Ali Abolmaali, Ph.D., P.E. "Jim and Patti recognize the huge leap this college can take. With their help, we will bridge knowledge and instruction with student success for generations to come. This remarkable gift will establish a dynamic hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in Anderson Engineering to serve Detroit, the state of Michigan and communities beyond." SOURCE Wayne State University AdCellerant brings award-winning marketing technology and services to Canada. DENVER, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AdCellerant, a leader in marketing technology solutions, is thrilled to announce its official expansion into Canada. This marks the company's first step in bringing its award-winning technology and services to new markets. AdCellerant expands to Canada, bringing award-winning marketing tech to a $15.9B digital ad market. Post this George Leith, President of International Partnerships at AdCellerant To lead this initiative, AdCellerant has appointed George Leith as President of International Partnerships, leveraging his extensive experience in sales, media, and international expansion. Leith previously led the sales organization at Vendasta for a decade and most recently served as Managing Partner and Chief Revenue Officer at Harvard Media. He brings deep expertise to working with media companies, brands, and agencies. Leith's expertise in scaling businesses across borders makes him an ideal leader for AdCellerant's Canadian market entry and future market expansion. "I'm honored to join AdCellerant and lead our international expansion, starting with the Canadian market," said Leith, President, International Partnerships at AdCellerant. "For over seven years, I've had the privilege of knowing Brock Berry (CEO), Shelby Carlson (COO), and Chris Christopulos (CFO) and watching them build AdCellerant into one of the top advertising and marketing technology firms in the U.S. I'm eager to connect with colleagues, partners, and industry leaders as we make an international impact with AdCellerant!" AdCellerant Expands to Canada, Bringing Cutting-Edge Digital Solutions to a $15.9B Market The Canadian expansion begins this spring, with offices opening in Calgary and Saskatoon. AdCellerant will introduce its cutting-edge marketing technology and digital advertising solutions to media companies, agencies, and businesses, helping them achieve stronger digital performance and revenue growth. Canada represents a $15.9 billion digital advertising market, and AdCellerant's platform, Ui.Marketing, is well-positioned to help local businesses and media companies capture more value by providing cutting-edge and strategic digital marketing solutions. "As we take this exciting step into the Canadian market, our mission remains to empower businesses with best-in-class technology and data-driven marketing solutions," said Brock Berry, CEO of AdCellerant. "With George's leadership and deep industry expertise, we're confident AdCellerant will deliver measurable results for our Canadian partners." AdCellerant is dedicated to helping businesses navigate the evolving digital landscape with customized solutions that drive success. This expansion into Canada is just the beginning of a larger international growth strategy that will continue to unfold in the coming months. About AdCellerant AdCellerant partners with media companies and agencies to provide businesses access to high-quality digital marketing technology and solutions. Focused on generating results and growth for businesses of all sizes, AdCellerant offers best-in-class technology and software, award-winning customer service, gifted education, and exceptional operational support to ensure customer campaign performance. Leveraging proprietary technology Ui.Marketing , AdCellerant effectively connects businesses with their ideal customers at the right time. Harnessing an easy-to-use and nimble advertising tool, users can manage the entire buyer's journey, from quick and accurate comprehensive proposal creation to campaign launch and campaign performance, within a single platform. Media Contact Meghan Brito, SVP of Marketing [email protected] SOURCE AdCellerant WASHINGTON, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Exploration and Production Council (AXPC), in partnership with EQT Corporation (EQT), Halliburton Company (Halliburton), and Range Resources, on Thursday hosted Department of the Interior Secretary and Chair of the National Energy Dominance Council Doug Burgum for a Marcellus shale field visit in Washington County, Pennsylvania. Secretary Burgum visited a hydraulic fracturing site highlighting modern energy development and the vital role of Pennsylvania oil and gas in meeting America's growing energy needs. The event emphasized the importance of smart energy policies that unleash American energy and featured Halliburton's Zeus intelligent electric fracturing platform at a Range Resources site, demonstrating how innovation is boosting domestic supply while lowering emissions and costs. "AXPC is proud to bring together industry leaders and policymakers to see firsthand how American innovation is driving record energy production," said AXPC CEO Anne Bradbury. "With the right policies in place, we can continue to grow production, support good-paying jobs, and lower costs for families across the country all while reducing emissions and enhancing our energy independence." "EQT is proud to have joined energy leaders, local officials, our community, and employees in welcoming Secretary Burgum to Western Pennsylvania home to one of the world's richest natural gas reserves," said Toby Z. Rice, President and CEO of EQT. "The Administration's decision to visit Appalachia within its first 100 days highlights its recognition of this region's key role in securing America's energy future. We look forward to further working with Secretary Burgum and the Interior Department to ensure a secure, reliable, and sustainable energy future for all Americans." "Over the last 70 years, Halliburton developed and continues to evolve hydraulic fracturing, while proudly manufacturing our equipment in Duncan, Oklahoma," said Mark Richard, President, Western Hemisphere, Halliburton. "It's through collaboration and our spirit of innovation that we have advanced fracturing operations to an intelligent, autonomous platform. The Zeus platform increases efficiency, maximizes production and helps unleash energy across the United States and around the world." "The blue-collar spirit is why Pennsylvanians have always rolled up their sleeves when the world needed them and we're ready to do it again to help the U.S. meet its energy needs," said Dennis Degner, CEO, Range Resources. "By leveraging American energy, we can drive American excellence and lead the way in powering innovation, strengthening national security, and advancing the next generation of manufacturing and technology." The site visit and discussion highlighted the opportunity for American energy producers to meet growing demand at home and abroad as well as drive emissions reductions and support local communities. Achieving these goals depends on domestic energy policies that promote continued investment and production. Full event remarks here. About AXPC AXPC is the voice of the leading independent U.S. energy producers. We promote the inherent value of American-made oil and natural gas. We educate and advocate for responsible upstream development and constructive federal solutions with policymakers, industry partners, and the media. We actively support our members' commitment to continuous improvement. About EQT Corporation EQT Corporation is a premier, vertically integrated American natural gas company with production and midstream operations focused in the Appalachian Basin. We are dedicated to responsibly developing our world-class asset base and being the operator of choice for our stakeholders. By leveraging a culture that prioritizes operational efficiency, technology and sustainability, we seek to continuously improve the way we produce environmentally responsible, reliable and low-cost energy. We have a longstanding commitment to the safety of our employees, contractors, and communities, and to the reduction of our overall environmental footprint. Our values are evident in the way we operate and in how we interact each day trust, teamwork, heart, and evolution are at the center of all we do. About Halliburton Company Halliburton is one of the world's leading providers of products and services to the energy industry. Founded in 1919, we create innovative technologies, products, and services that help our customers maximize their value throughout the life cycle of an asset and advance a sustainable energy future. Visit us at halliburton.com; connect with us on LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. About Range Resources Range Resources Corporation (NYSE: RRC) is a leading U.S. independent natural gas and NGL producer with operations focused in the Appalachian Basin. The Company is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. More information about Range can be found at www.rangeresources.com. Media Contacts Hanna Bogorowski AXPC 267-229-7496 [email protected] Amy Rogers EQT Corporation 410-703-6968 [email protected] Milka Horst Halliburton 281-318-9676 [email protected] Mark Windle Range Resources 724-579-9030 [email protected] SOURCE The American Exploration and Production Council (AXPC) The sixth episode of Info-Tech Research Group's podcast, Digital Disruption, features a conversation with bestselling author Daniel Pink about how today's leaders can navigate what he calls "the great sort"a post-pandemic reckoning that's reshaping how we think about work, leadership, and meaning. At the heart of the discussion is Pink's call to action: stop theorizing, start experimenting. TORONTO, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - As organizations continue to face new expectations around leadership, culture, and performance, the call to adapt with clarity and purpose has never been more urgent. In episode 6 of Digital Disruption, "How the Future of Work Is Changing," bestselling author and workplace strategist Daniel Pink and host Geoff Nielson explore why now is the time for leaders to embrace experimentation, reflection, and small, consistent progress as a path forward. The sixth episode of Info-Tech Research Groups podcast, Digital Disruption, features a conversation with bestselling author Daniel Pink about how todays leaders can navigate what he calls the great sorta post-pandemic reckoning thats reshaping how we think about work, leadership, and meaning. (CNW Group/Info-Tech Research Group) In a wide-ranging conversation, Pink offers insight into the moment he calls "the great sort," a period of recalibration where organizations must rethink everything from office architecture to leadership norms. According to Pink, today's most effective leaders aren't those with all the answers but those who are willing to admit what they don't know and model behaviors that foster resilience, autonomy, and experimentation. "Daniel Pink has the rare ability to simplify complex topics without watering them down," says Geoff Nielson, senior vice president of brand at Info-Tech Research Group and host of Digital Disruption. "In this Digital Disruption episode, Daniel challenges IT leaders to trade in perfection for progress and control for curiosity. It's not just about rethinking work; it's about relearning how to lead in a world where the old playbooks no longer apply." At the heart of the conversation is Pink's belief that leadership is no longer about projecting certainty but about creating environments where learning and reflection are valued as much as results. Pink encourages organizations to rethink how they structure time, define productivity, and support their teams, especially in hybrid and constantly shifting work contexts. Pink, whose books have sold millions of copies and are translated into 42 languages, is one of today's most influential voices on human behavior and motivation. Pink's research-driven insights offer a roadmap for organizations seeking to evolve in ways that are meaningful and sustainable. Digital Disruption, Episode 6: "How the Future of Work Is Changing" In the sixth episode of Digital Disruption, Daniel Pink, author of Drive, The Power of Regret, and To Sell is Human, joins Geoff Neilson for a candid conversation about: Navigating uncertainty with curiosity, not certainty Why too much synchronous work is holding teams back Rethinking offices, routines, and rules in a hybrid-first era How boldness and regret shape our ability to lead Episode 6 of Digital Disruption with Daniel Pink is now available on YouTube, Apple Music, and Spotify. IT and business professionals are encouraged to subscribe for more insights and in-depth conversations with global industry experts shaping the future of digital transformation. To learn more, visit the Digital Disruption podcast page and follow Info-Tech Research Group on LinkedIn and X for updates. For more information about guest opportunities and participation in upcoming episodes, please contact [email protected]. About Info-Tech Research Group Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world's leading research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT and HR professionals. The company produces unbiased, highly relevant research and provides advisory services to help leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For nearly 30 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations. To learn more about Info-Tech's divisions, visit McLean & Company for HR research and advisory services and SoftwareReviews for software buying insights. Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm's Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact [email protected]. SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group SYDNEY, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Blueberry , a leading online forex broker, is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with TradingView, the world's largest social network for traders and investors. This collaboration aims to enhance the trading experience for Blueberry customers by providing access to TradingView's powerful charting tools, advanced technical analysis, and social trading features. The partnership will also include a co-branded campaign designed to position Blueberry as an innovative leader in the trading space. Enhanced trading with TradingView's advanced tools Blueberry partners with TradingView At the heart of this partnership is the integration of TradingView's industry-leading charting and analysis tools with Blueberry's platform. With TradingView's advanced charting features, Blueberry customers will gain access to a wide array of powerful tools designed to improve their trading performance. These tools are built for traders of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, and are especially useful for those looking to conduct deep technical analysis. TradingView's comprehensive charting features include interactive charts, a wide selection of indicators, drawing tools, and customizable layouts that give traders the flexibility to analyze the markets in real-time. The platform's seamless integration with Blueberry allows customers to execute trades directly from TradingView charts, creating a streamlined, efficient trading experience. In addition to the advanced charting tools, TradingView's social trading features bring a new dimension to the trading experience. Blueberry customers will have access to a vibrant community of traders where they can share ideas, strategies, and insights, as well as learn from one another. The ability to follow top traders and view their ideas and trades can help customers make more informed decisions and stay ahead of market trends. A Co-Branded campaign driving growth and innovation This partnership is more than just about offering new tools it's about positioning Blueberry as an innovative leader in the trading space. As part of this collaboration, the two companies will launch a co-branded campaign designed to raise awareness of the enhanced trading experience available to Blueberry customers. The campaign will focus on promoting Blueberry as a forward-thinking broker that integrates cutting-edge tools and technology to empower traders. By partnering with TradingView, Blueberry is reinforcing its commitment to offering traders the best tools available, ensuring that they have the resources needed to succeed in today's fast-paced markets. The campaign will highlight the powerful combination of Blueberry's tight spreads, excellent customer service, and access to TradingView's advanced charting and social features. Blueberry: Innovation at the core Blueberry has always been committed to providing a first-class trading experience, and this partnership with TradingView is just one example of how the company continues to innovate in the competitive trading space. By incorporating the best charting tools, social trading features, and powerful analysis tools from TradingView, Blueberry is further enhancing its platform offering to provide customers with a comprehensive suite of resources to succeed in their trading journey. This partnership also reinforces Blueberry's core values of transparency, low-cost trading, and exceptional customer service. Clients will continue to enjoy tight spreads and access to popular trading platforms like MetaTrader 4/5 and BlueberryX, along with the added benefit of TradingView's advanced tools, all within a single integrated experience. Dean Hyde, Founder and Managing Director of Blueberry, commented "We're thrilled to partner with TradingView to provide our customers with powerful tools and resources that will elevate their trading experience. This collaboration brings cutting-edge charting and a dynamic trading environment, all while staying true to our commitment to exceptional customer service and tight spreads. Innovation is at the core of Blueberry, and this partnership will take that to the next level, unlocking more effective and confident trading for our customers." Enhanced Trading Capabilities Through Strategic Integration The partnership provides Blueberry customers with enhanced access to TradingView's suite of trading tools and community features. This includes advanced charting capabilities, insights from top-performing traders, and engagement with TradingView's social trading networkall contributing to a more informed trading experience. Through the integration, users can also execute trades directly from TradingView's platform in real time, streamlining the process and improving efficiency. The collaboration aims to deliver a seamless and comprehensive trading environment by combining the strengths of both platforms. Next steps for Blueberry customers Blueberry customers can now easily link their TradingView accounts to their trading accounts and seamlessly execute trades using advanced charting tools directly from the TradingView platform. For more information about Blueberry and to start trading with TradingView's advanced tools, visit www.blueberrymarkets.com About Blueberry Blueberry is an award-winning online forex broker that provides retail traders with access to a wide range of trading instruments, low spreads, and powerful trading platforms (MetaTrader 4/5 and BlueberryX). Known for its exceptional customer service, educational resources, and competitive trading conditions, Blueberry is dedicated to offering traders the tools and support they need to succeed in the global financial markets. Facebook | X | Linkedin | Instagram | Youtube About TradingView TradingView is the world's largest social network for traders and investors, offering cutting-edge charting and technical analysis tools for financial markets. With millions of users worldwide, TradingView provides real-time data, customizable charts, and a platform for traders to share their strategies and ideas. TradingView's social trading features help traders learn from one another, making it an invaluable resource for anyone involved in the financial markets. Disclaimer: Margin trading involves a high level of risk and is not suitable for everyone. You should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience before entering into any margined transactions with Blueberry Markets, and seek independent advice if necessary. Margin Forex and CFDs are highly leveraged products, which means both gains and losses are magnified. You should only trade in these products if you fully understand the risks involved and can afford to incur losses. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2658072/Blueberry.jpg Logo : https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2658071/Blueberry_Logo.jpg SOURCE Blueberry Carlisle could join other municipalities across the state in enacting a Welcoming City ordinance regarding immigration processes. Residents Tina Zeigler and John Werner offered a sample ordinance to the council during Wednesday nights workshop meeting. This ordinance specifically targets how the borough responds to requests from Immigration and Customs Enforcement or customs and border patrol, Zeigler said. This would specifically outline the boroughs duties to comply with federal law, but will also say that it is the duty of federal officials to employ that law. The sample ordinance prohibits borough officials from requesting information about immigration status regarding services, benefits or opportunities unless required to do so by state or federal law. This ordinance codifies what is already clear under the law: that federal immigration law is not the responsibility of the borough and that expending borough resources to do so runs contrary to the boroughs values and responsibilities to its residents, the sample ordinance reads. Similar policies have gone into effect in other Pennsylvania communities, including Lancaster and Allentown. Several council members supported the ordinance Wednesday night, though changes could be made before a final vote. We realize we cant affect the federal but our voices are important for the people here to know that we do care about you all, Councilor Safronia Perry said. We care about each other, and Im thankful that you come to us and you ask us for these things, because they are important, and its important that we do have these conversations. Carlisle Mayor Sean Shultz said he received a phone call last week from someone concerned about the potential of an ICE raid at the recent Amani Festival, a multicultural celebration. I think on an issue like this where we may have a direct effect on the path of someones life that we would later regret that we have a responsibility to be proactive, he said. Shultz said the council could continue to discuss the ordinance at future workshop meetings. Zoning updates Also during Wednesdays meeting, Director of Sustainable Community & Economic Planning Jared Woolston presented several recommendations from Carlisles Land Use Reform Subcommittee that are ready for the councils consideration. He said the council could vote on these updates as soon as Thursdays regular meeting. One change could promote artisan industry by allowing small-scale manufacturing downtown. Carlisles current ordinances are designed to prohibit large-scale industry and manufacturing in neighborhoods and downtown, Woolston said last summer. However this prohibits small-scale production as well. Businesses like microbreweries produce their products on site with an special exception. A zoning update could allow that production by right. The proposed change would permit small-scale manufacturing of arts, crafts, gifts, clothing, foods, beverages, alcoholic beverages and other materials in facilities that can sell the same products. Staff recommended limiting small-scale manufacturing space to a maximum of 10,000 square feet with no more than 10 employees at a given time. The proposal would also require one parking space per 600 gross square feet of floor area and would apply to the boroughs commercial, industrial and urban mixed use districts, Woolston said. Were not talking about the great big factories that might be more appropriate with great big setbacks and things like that, he said. Were talking small-scale use 10,000 square feet or less. Ralph Miller of Dillsburg said Wednesday the change would aid his plans to open a craft distillery downtown with his wife. Under current zoning, were allowed for bottling operations, so we can mix and we can bottle everything, but at this point we cant do retail sales, he said, adding that the proposed zoning change would allow them to sell their products on site. Another recommendation addresses building entrances in urban mixed use districts. Woolston said the current ordinance requires that building entrances open directly to the outside. A proposed change would require those entrances to be oriented to a street. This could help make entrances more visible, rather than hiding around the back of a building. If you cant see how to get into the building, unless you go around on site, this very small but impactful change would require developers as a standard zoning ordinance to put the entrance facing the street, Woolston said. The borough could also consider implementing minimum bicycle parking requirements. This would require developers to accommodate parking for at least two bicycles per 10 off-street parking spaces, with no more than 20 bicycle parking spaces required per parking lot. The committees recommendation is that bicycle parking should in a well-lit area that is conveniently accessible to primary entrances and does not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic. Staff had floated this a couple times to developers with no objection, Woolston said. A final recommendation addressed the boroughs code regarding licenses for massage therapist businesses, he said. These were designed to reflect the states requirements. DUBAI, UAE, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Danube Properties, one of the UAE's fastest-growing real estate developers, has signed a strategic partnership with NapkinAds, the media-tech company transforming out-of-home advertising by placing branded QR-coded napkins in top restaurants and bars across North America and EMEA. This collaboration marks a bold move by Danube to reach high-intent investors through a non-traditional, high-engagement marketing channelone napkin at a time. "At Danube, we've always believed in staying ahead of the curvewhether it's through our projects, pricing, or promotions," said Adel Sajan, Managing Director of Danube Group. "NapkinAds lets us place the Dubai real estate opportunity directly into the hands of potential investors in a format that's fresh, personal, and disruptive." NapkinAds creates brand touchpoints during real-life moments of pauseat dining tables, bars, and loungeswhere consumers are more relaxed and open to discovery. The campaign will activate in key cities across the U.S., Canada, and the GCC, aimed at attracting qualified leads into Danube's sales funnel. "Traditional ads often get skipped or tuned out. But napkinseveryone touches them. They're physical, in-hand, and naturally spark curiosity," said Jatin Rughwani, EMEA President of NapkinAds. "For Danube, this means visibility with affluent, mobile audiences at the right moment. We're not just delivering impressionswe're driving intent and engagement in untapped, high-conversion environments." The campaign integrates scannable QR codes on every napkin, linking directly to Danube's latest developments and investor offerings. This bridges offline curiosity with instant digital actionturning a humble napkin into a powerful lead generator. With global appetite for Dubai real estate on the rise, especially across North America and EMEA, Danube's campaign is expected to generate significant international traction. The partnership highlights how modern brands are moving beyond traditional ad channels to meet audiences where they live, dine, and socialize. Danube Properties has launched 33 projects to date, with 18 successfully delivered and 15 currently in various stages of construction. With over 20,000 units sold, Danube has built a strong customer base and a solid reputation for delivering high-quality developments on time. Founded in Dubai in 1993, the company operates in more than 80 cities worldwide, including key markets such as the UAE, UK, China, and India. As forward-thinking partners like Danube lead the way, NapkinAds is fast becoming a go-to channel for brands seeking measurable, real-world impact. For media bookings and partnership opportunities, visit www.napkinads.com SOURCE NapkinAds VERO BEACH, Fla., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Frederick "Derick" Cooper, CEO of QOL Medical, continues to make a lasting impact across multiple communities through a series of charitable donations aimed at supporting religious organizations and their missions. Over the past two years, Cooper has contributed significant financial resources and personal time to faith-based causes that align with his vision of creating meaningful change. Cooper recently pledged $1.5 million to Midtown Fellowship, a Presbyterian church in the 12 South neighborhood of Nashville, Tennessee. The church is currently fundraising to purchase their building outright, as rising property costs in the area threaten their ability to maintain their place of worship. "Supporting Midtown Fellowship's mission to remain a cornerstone in their community is an investment in preserving faith and fellowship in a rapidly changing environment," said Cooper. Additionally, Cooper contributed $127,000 to the International Foundation to support Reverend Helen Orr's efforts at the Parochial Church Council (PCC) of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Peter & St Paul, Bassingbourn, England. Reverend Orr, who serves as the vicar, leads the church under its vision statement, "A wellspring of hope for all." Cooper's donation aims to aid the church's community outreach and development initiatives. "Faith-based organizations play a crucial role in providing support, hope, and resources to communities worldwide. I am honored to contribute to their missions and help ensure their longevity," Cooper stated. Looking ahead, Cooper remains committed to expanding his philanthropic footprint, with plans to further support religious institutions, innovative domestic and international projects, and community outreach programs. For more information about QOL Medical, LLC, please visit their website www.qolmed.com. To learn more about Midtown Fellowship or the PCC of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Peter & St Paul, Bassingbourn, England, please visit their respective websites at. www.midtownfellowship.org and www.bassingbournchurch.org.uk. Media Contact: QOL Medical, LLC Tiffany Carter Phone: 818-720-8557 Email: [email protected] Corporate Contact: QOL Medical, LLC 3405 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL 32963 Phone: 866-469-3773 Fax: 772-365-3375 Email: [email protected] SOURCE QOL Medical, LLC BANGALORE, India, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- EUV Photoresists Market is Segmented by Type (EUV (Chemical), EUV (Non-Chemical)), by Application (Logic IC, Memory). The Global Market for EUV Photoresists was valued at USD 296 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 1409 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 25.4% during the forecast period. Claim Your Free Report: https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/QYRE-Auto-36H8625/Global_EUV_Photoresists_Market Major Factors Driving the Growth of EUV Photoresists Market: The EUV Photoresists Market continues its steady rise, fueled by demand for advanced chips powering smartphones, data centers, and AI systems. Major semiconductor players rely on these resists to push lithography boundaries, ensuring smaller process nodes and denser circuitry. Ongoing partnerships between material suppliers, fab operators, and research institutes drive continuous improvements in resist sensitivity, line edge roughness, and etch stability. As 5G, IoT, and high-performance computing proliferate, production scales upward, requiring dependable, high-yield resist formulations. Additionally, environmental considerations steer the market toward safer, more sustainable products. Intense competition fosters competitive pricing and spurs fresh innovations, drawing interest from new entrants. Overall, the EUV Photoresists Market stands poised for lasting growth as industries demand more powerful, energy-efficient devices. Unlock Insights: View Full Report Now! https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-36H8625/global-euv-photoresists TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE EUV PHOTORESISTS MARKET: EUV (Chemical) formulations propel the EUV Photoresists Market by enabling precise patterning at increasingly small nodes. These specialized chemicals react under extreme ultraviolet exposure, creating clearly defined circuit paths on semiconductor wafers. As manufacturers pursue advanced transistor architectures, chemical-based EUV resists offer higher resolution and cleaner pattern profiles than older lithography methods. The ability to minimize feature sizes allows chips to pack more transistors, boosting performance without enlarging footprints. By streamlining etch processes and simplifying material handling, these resists reduce costs while enhancing reliability. Ongoing research focuses on improving line edge roughness and enhancing sensitivity, ensuring chemical EUV resists maintain relevance. This adaptability underscores their pivotal role in meeting the ever-increasing demands of the semiconductor industry. EUV (Non-Chemical) options broaden the EUV Photoresists Market by offering alternative patterning approaches, particularly in niche semiconductor processes. Some rely on physical or inorganic mechanisms, producing sturdy layers resistant to environmental variations. These materials often exhibit lower outgassing rates, ensuring stable lithography environments. Such non-chemical solutions suit specific production lines where chemical contamination poses high risks or demands additional control. By diversifying available formulations, vendors reduce reliance on a single approach and cater to specialized device manufacturing. Enhanced durability during etching ensures fewer defects and potentially higher yields. While chemical methods dominate mainstream production, non-chemical EUV photoresists create added flexibility for unique applications. This variety stimulates innovation, strengthening the market's overall capability to serve evolving semiconductor needs. Logic IC manufacturing amplifies the EUV Photoresists Market by requiring more transistors in smaller, faster, and more power-efficient architectures. As chipmakers push beyond traditional lithography limits, EUV photoresists become indispensable for achieving dense logic designs without compromising performance. By harnessing shorter wavelengths, these resists facilitate narrower line widths and sharper circuit edges, enabling advanced logic nodes that outperform previous generations. Smartphone processors, data center CPUs, and AI accelerators all benefit from higher transistor counts delivered via EUV-based methods. Ensuring fidelity during pattern transfer is crucial for maximizing yield and minimizing production costs, making robust EUV resist formulations essential. As logic IC designers continue innovating, demand for specialized EUV photoresists expands, fueling consistent development and market expansion worldwide. Global chipmakers push toward ever-smaller process nodes to pack more functionality onto each wafer. EUV photoresists are central to this trend, delivering fine resolution and high contrast essential for next-generation node development. These resists minimize defect rates by forming precisely defined patterns at sub-ten-nanometer scales. Manufacturers gain a competitive advantage through smaller, more power-efficient chips that can handle intensive workloads. This drive for miniaturization prompts continual improvements in resist chemistry to overcome line edge roughness and photon shot noise. By enabling smaller features, EUV photoresists remain a cornerstone technology in semiconductor progression. As consumer devices demand better performance in tighter footprints, the pursuit of smaller nodes becomes an enduring catalyst for EUV photoresist adoption. Expanding 5G networks and edge computing architectures stimulate demand for high-speed, low-latency chips. EUV photoresists aid in creating advanced processors and radios that operate more efficiently at these cutting-edge frequencies. By producing smaller transistors, foundries can integrate complex functionalities without enlarging die areas. This optimization helps devices handle rapid data transfers, powering real-time analytics and machine learning at network edges. Enhanced resist formulations enable quick design iterations, allowing chipmakers to adapt rapidly to new protocol standards. Moreover, as edge devices proliferate, producing many specialized chips becomes crucial for diverse, globally distributed deployments. This surge in production volumes underscores EUV photoresists' importance in supporting the 5G and edge revolution, ensuring stable, high-performance semiconductor output. AI and machine learning applications demand massive computational capability, fueling adoption of advanced semiconductor processes that rely on EUV photoresists. Specialized accelerators and GPUs benefit from high transistor densities for parallel operations and speedy data throughput. EUV-based lithography delivers the fine geometries necessary to pack more processing elements on each chip. The success of AI frameworks hinges on real-time inference and training, prompting hardware designs that emphasize performance and energy efficiency. In response, manufacturers invest heavily in scaling production at advanced nodes, relying on precise EUV resists to maintain yield targets. As AI-driven solutions penetrate healthcare, finance, and automotive sectors, the need for robust, compact chips expands. This dynamic environment propels EUV photoresists as essential enablers of AI growth. Claim Yours Now! https://reports.valuates.com/api/directpaytoken?rcode=QYRE-Auto-36H8625&lic=single-user EUV PHOTORESISTS MARKET SHARE: The core manufacturers of EUV Photoresists in the world include TOK, JSR and Shin-Etsu Chemical. The top three companies have about 90 per cent of the market. Asia Pacific is the world's largest EUV Photoresists market with a market share of about 82%, followed by North America and Europe with a market share of 8% each. In terms of product type, EUV (Chemical) is the largest segment with approximately 67% of the market share. In terms of application, Logic IC is the largest downstream segment, accounting for about 38% of the market. Key Companies: JSR TOK Shin-Etsu Chemical Dongjin Semichem DuPont Fujifilm Sumitomo Chemical Lam Research Purchase Chapters: https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-36H8625/global-euv-photoresists/1 SUBSCRIPTION We have introduced a tailor-made subscription for our customers. Please leave a note in the Comment Section to know about our subscription plans. DISCOVER MORE INSIGHTS: EXPLORE SIMILAR REPORTS! - Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) Photoresist Market - DUV and EUV Photoresist market was valued at USD 2059 Million in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 3171 Million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period 2024-2030. - Photoresist for Semiconductor Packaging Market - The global market for Photoresist (PR) was valued at USD 2585 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 4126 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 7.0% during the forecast period. - The global market for Photoresist for Packaging was valued at USD 152 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 220 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period. - UV-NIL Photoresist Market - Display Resist Market - Lithography Equipment Market was estimated to be worth USD 263.1 Million in 2023 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 623.7 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 12.6% during the forecast period 2024-2030. - Thick Layer Photoresists Market was valued at USD 146 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 215 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period. - Lithography Lens market was valued at USD 1036 Million in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 1633 Million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period 2024-2030. - Semiconductor Thinner Market DISCOVER OUR VISION: VISIT ABOUT US! 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GET A FREE QUOTE Valuates Reports [email protected] For U.S. Toll-Free Call 1-(315)-215-3225 WhatsApp: +91-9945648335 Website: https://reports.valuates.com Blog: https://valuatestrends.blogspot.com/ Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/valuatesreports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/valuatesreports Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valuatesreports/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@valuatesreports6753 https://www.facebook.com/valuateskorean https://www.facebook.com/valuatesspanish https://www.facebook.com/valuatesjapanese https://valuatesreportspanish.blogspot.com/ https://valuateskorean.blogspot.com/ https://valuatesgerman.blogspot.com/ https://valuatesreportjapanese.blogspot.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1082232/Valuates_Reports_Logo.jpg SOURCE Valuates Reports CINCINNATI, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- First Student , the largest and most trusted student transportation provider, has been awarded a 2025 Edison Award in the Scalable Clean Transportation Energy category for their First Charge solution. First Charge is a modular, above-ground charging infrastructure engineered to overcome operational challenges for electric school buses and medium- to heavy-duty vehicles. Its patent pending flexible, expansion ready design streamlines deployment, reducing installation time and construction costs by up to 30% while enabling seamless scalability for fleet-wide electrification. This recognition exemplifies First Student's commitment to delivering innovative solutions that empower customers to transition to cleaner, more efficient transportation. First Student developed First Charge to address operational challenges in electrification due to leasing many of their locations and time-intensive, cost-prohibitive trenching, digging, and boring. With operations in over 500 locations, there was a need for a modular service that allows districts the flexibility to start small and scale as confidence grows. This patent-pending solution is now available to all school districts and other medium- to heavy duty fleet operators on a subscription basis. "We are honored to be recognized by Edison Awards for our industry-leading First Charge solution," said First Student Head of Electrification Kevin Matthews. "Electrifying school buses is essential for protecting children's health, enhancing safety, and securing a sustainable future. We're committed to continuous improvement and innovative solutions that make the transition to electric the best possible experience for our customers. With our deep industry expertise and advanced technology, we simplify EV charging, making sure students have a cleaner, safer, and more reliable ride to school, so they arrive ready to learn." As the first V2X (vehicle-to-everything) charging solution, First Charge is enabling fleet electrification across the industry. With 450 electric school buses already deployed and 2,022 EVs awarded to date, First Student is driving electrification at scale. First Charge eliminates key barriers to EV adoption by reducing construction costs by up to 30% and significantly accelerating deployment timelines, allowing school districts and fleet operators to transition to electric vehicles more efficiently. The Edison Awards is one of the most prestigious awards celebrating innovation and excellence in products, services, and leadership that drive meaningful change. Celebrating groundbreaking advancements, finalists represent leaders whose work is shaping a better, more sustainable future. About First Student As the leading provider of K-12 transportation solutions, First Student ensures the safest and most reliable ride to school each day for 5.5 million students in communities across North America. With a team of highly trained drivers, the company is on track to complete 1 billion student trips during the 2024-25 school year. Recognized as one of Fast Company's 2025 Most Innovative Companies, First Student delivers a wide range of essential services, including home-to-school transportation, special needs transportation, fleet electrification, route optimization, maintenance, and charter services. The company's focus goes beyond logistics by creating a positive, welcoming environment for students on each of its 45,000 buses. By continuously enhancing the transportation experience for students and families, First Student helps to ensure every child arrives to school ready to achieve their full potential. Contact Jen Biddinger First Student 513.362.4600 SOURCE First Student Investment Community Teleconference Set for May 8, 2025 at 8 a.m. ET TORONTO, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Hydro One Limited (TSX: H), the largest electric transmission and distribution utility in Ontario, plans to release its first quarter financial results the morning of May 8, 2025, before North American financial markets open. A summary of the results will be distributed by newswire and the complete MD&A and financial statements will be posted at www.hydroone.com/investors and www.sedarplus.com. Hydro One's management will host a teleconference with the investment community starting at 8 a.m. ET that same morning to discuss the results and outlook. Those wishing to listen to the teleconference can access the live webcast through the Investor Relations Events and Presentations section of Hydro One's website at www.hydroone.com/investors. A rebroadcast of the teleconference will be available following the call at the same link. Members of the North American financial community wanting to ask questions during the call should use the following link (registration link), and you will be provided with personalized dial-in details. To avoid delays, we encourage participants to dial into the conference call fifteen minutes ahead of the scheduled start time. Other interested parties and media are welcome to participate on a listen-only basis. Hydro One Limited (TSX: H) Hydro One Limited, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, is Ontario's largest electricity transmission and distribution provider with 1.5 million valued customers, $36.7 billion in assets as at December 31, 2024, and annual revenues in 2024 of $8.5 billion. Our team of 10,100 skilled and dedicated employees proudly build and maintain a safe and reliable electricity system which is essential to supporting strong and successful communities. In 2024, Hydro One invested $3.1 billion in its transmission and distribution networks, and supported the economy through buying $2.9 billion of goods and services. We are committed to the communities where we live and work through community investment, sustainability and diversity initiatives. Hydro One Limited's common shares are listed on the TSX and certain of Hydro One Inc.'s medium term notes are listed on the NYSE. Additional information can be accessed at www.hydroone.com, www.sedarplus.com or www.sec.gov. For More Information For more information about everything Hydro One, please visit www.hydroone.com where you can find additional information including links to securities filings, historical financial reports, and information about the Company's governance practices, corporate social responsibility, customer solutions, and further information about its business. SOURCE Hydro One Limited WASHINGTON, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Jones Walker LLP is pleased to welcome Julia Bonestroo Banegas as special counsel in the Maritime Practice Group and a member of the maritime regulatory team in the firm's Washington, DC office. "We are pleased to welcome Julia to our maritime regulatory team," said Bill Hines, the firm's managing partner. "Her extensive experience in maritime law and regulatory compliance will be valuable to our clients in Washington, DC and across the country." Jones Walker welcomes Julia Bonestroo Banegas as special counsel in the Maritime Practice Group and a member of the maritime regulatory team in the Washington, DC office. Julia advises clients on federal and state maritime regulations to facilitate smooth business operations in the US and internationally. She assists in preparing for significant projects and establishing compliance programs that support uninterrupted trade and efficient operations. Her knowledge spans a variety of issues, including maritime transportation and regulatory compliance. "I am excited about joining Jones Walker, a firm with deep maritime roots," Julia said. "It is a great platform for my clients." Julia represents clients before government agencies such as the Federal Maritime Commission, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and the Federal Trade Commission, as well as in state and federal courts. Her experience includes supply chain regulatory counseling, state investigations, litigation, commercial contracting, and federal regulatory compliance. When litigation arises, Julia collaborates with clients to navigate the issues and provides strategic guidance to resolve disputes and safeguard their business interests in an ever-evolving regulatory landscape. About Jones Walker Jones Walker LLP (joneswalker.com) is among the largest 145 law firms in the United States. With offices in Alabama, Arizona, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, and Texas, we serve local, regional, national, and international business interests. The firm is committed to providing a comprehensive range of legal services to major multinational public and private corporations, Fortune 500 companies, money center banks, worldwide insurers, and emerging companies doing business in the United States and abroad. Contact : Savannah Kirk 225.248.3435 [email protected] SOURCE Jones Walker LLP MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In the face of newly announced tariffs and growing uncertainty across the automotive landscape, The Landers Auto Group is taking decisive action to keep things simple, fair, and proudly American. Beginning today, Landers Ford in Collierville, TN; Landers Ford South in Southaven, MS; and Landers Ford North in Covington, TN are offering Employee Pricing for everyone on select new Ford vehicles as part of Ford's bold national initiative: "From America, For America." "We're stepping up for our customers just like Ford is stepping up for the country," said Kent Ritchey, owner of Landers Auto Group. "These trucks and cars are built here. They're driven here. And we're going to sell them here at the fairest price possible." The new campaign reflects Ford's standing as the #1 automaker in U.S. production and #1 U.S. exporter of vehicles, with over 80% of its U.S. sales built on American soil. The Landers Ford stores are echoing Ford's commitments with a pledge to protect customers against sudden price shifts. Here's what customers can count on immediately: Employee Pricing on all eligible new Ford vehicles No markups on in-stock inventory due to tariff speculation or supply concerns Your current vehicle is now worth more. If you choose not to trade it in, we will still buy it from you, any make, model, age, or mileage All existing customer vehicle orders will be honored at the pre-tariff price. No changes. No surprises If you have already placed parts or service orders, we will fulfill them at pre-tariff pricing All current inventory of parts, tires, and oil will remain at pre-tariff prices with no additional markup "There's a lot we can't control, but we can control how we show up for our communities," Ritchey added. "And right now, that means doing right by the people who've always counted on us." Landers Auto Group is one of the largest privately held automotive groups in the Midsouth proudly serving thousands of customers annually and employing over 500 associates. SOURCE Landers Ford (Memphis) SOUTHFIELD, Mich., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lear Corporation will hold a conference call to review the company's first quarter 2025 financial results and related matters on May 6, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. EDT. To participate in the conference call: Webcast link: click here Toll-free calls: 877-883-0383 International calls: 412-902-6506 The conference code is 6699126. You also may listen to the live audio webcast of the call, in listen-only mode, on Lear's Investor Relations website at ir.lear.com. The webcast replay will be available two hours following the call. Note: The first quarter 2025 slide presentation will be available on Lear's website before the earnings call begins on May 6, 2025. SOURCE Lear Corporation SAN JOSE, Calif., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Global intelligent transportation service provider LEOTEK announced that its independently developed Interlux AI Traffic Signal System has been awarded the Silver Award in the Smart City Mobility Infrastructure category at the 2025 Edison Awards. Powered by NVIDIA edge computing technology, the system delivers high-performance AI computing and real-time decision-making at the edge. Ewing Liu (left), Chief of Staff at Leotek Jensen Huang, founder of NVIDIA, was also honored with the Edison Achievement Award and delivered a keynote titled "A Modern Innovation Guide for Founders." He emphasized, "Speed is everything. Our experience shows that rigid processes in the early stages of development often stifle creativity and slow progress. We've made every major mistakebut learning quickly and adapting has been the key to sustained innovation." Known as the "Oscars of Innovation," the Edison Awards recognize Leotek's forward-looking vision of reshaping urban governance through smart infrastructure. The company's street lighting products also comply with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act, positioning Leotek as a global catalyst for transportation innovation. Smarter Traffic Signals: Redefining Intelligence at Intersections The Interlux system leverages advanced sensing technologies, integrating mmWave radar, AI-based image recognition, and real-time vehicle-to-everything (V2X) data to equip traditional traffic signals with the ability to "understand" the dynamics of complex intersections. It simultaneously analyzes the movement patterns of pedestrians, vehicles, and micromobility devices to generate optimal signal strategies, overcoming the delays caused by traditional systems. The infrastructure evolves from passive response to proactive protection, using predictive algorithms to identify risks in advance and create an invisible safety net for road users. A Dual Innovation in Technology and Sustainability With over 30 years of expertise in smart transportation, LEOTEK's technologies are not only internationally certified but are also modularly designed for seamless integration into existing road systems. The Interlux AI system dynamically adjusts signal timing and traffic flow, reducing energy waste from idling. An integrated energy management module optimizes power efficiency in real time, transforming intersections into pivotal nodes in the city's carbon reduction efforts. Torrent Chin, President of LEOTEK, stated: "When ambulances pass through safely, seniors cross streets with confidence, and commuters avoid traffic gridlockthat's when technology truly serves its human-centered purpose." A Global Benchmark in Intelligent Traffic Solutions As the leading AI traffic solutions provider in the Americas, LEOTEK operates in over 30 countries, with dual R&D headquarters in Silicon Valley and Taipei. Its street lighting products not only meet BABA's local manufacturing requirements but also pass rigorous environmental tests, ensuring stable performance under extreme weather conditions like storms, heat, or snow. Ewing Liu, Chief of Staff at LEOTEK, noted: "Interlux AI transforms traffic lights into green technology. Through AIoT-driven dynamic energy saving and intelligent control, we're building a living, breathing sustainable traffic networkone that delivers on the twin goals of zero carbon emissions and zero traffic accidents." Blueprint for the Future of Smart Infrastructure Driven by its core vision of automated roads, LEOTEK continues to advance the digital transformation of infrastructure. The Interlux AI system connects with the ARMS Smart Management Platform to analyze traffic big data and proactively recommend optimal configurations for efficiency. It also pushes real-time "green wave" routes to drivers, helping reduce idling and cut carbon emissions. LEOTEK looks forward to partnering with city leaders to build intelligent, low-carbon, and adaptive urban mobility ecosystems. About LEOTEK LEOTEK, with dual headquarters in Silicon Valley and Taipei, is the leading AI-driven intelligent traffic operations service provider in the Americas. Since 1992, LEOTEK has served over 30 countries across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania. The company specializes in AI + IoT solutions for roadway automation, focusing on safety, sustainability, and low-carbon transformation to support smart cities in achieving net-zero goals. Learn more: www.LEOTEK.com SOURCE Leotek corporation STOCKHOLM, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Greater Than, a global provider of risk intelligence into road safety and climate impact, is announcing that Mia Alholm is proposed to be elected as a new Board member. Alholm has held the position of Chief Financial Officer at Virala Oy Ab for more than 20 years and has extensive knowledge of M&A, organization development, finance, IT, governance and sustainably reporting. She is vastly experienced in ensuring compliance within regulated environments. Virala Oy Ab, through its Swedish subsidiary Nidoco AB's investment vehicle Cuarto AB, is the second-largest shareholder in Greater Than, holding approximately 20% of the company. In January, Jan-Elof Cavander, Chief Operating Officer at Virala Oy AB, joined the Greater Than board in a move that reinforced Virala's commitment to the company and its future development. "The proposal of a second board member from Virala is fantastic news that further demonstrates the confidence of Virala in Greater Than's ongoing success," said Sten Forseke, Founder of Greater Than. "This is a particularly exciting time for our company, as we experience strong demand for AI across all industries in which we operate." Mia has been an entrepreneur herself and therefore understands the needs and challenges of businesses, from startups through to large enterprises. She also has a background as an auditor for PwC, equipping her with strong communication skills within auditory environments. Mia has held a board member position in one listed Swedish company, ZetaDisplay AB, and in several Finnish listed companies, the most recent being Virala Acquisition Company Oyj, the first Finnish listed Spac-company, and the first Nordic listed Spac-company to De-Spac. Press contact Greater Than [email protected] +46 855 593 200 www.greaterthan.eu This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com. https://news.cision.com/greater-than/r/mia-alholm-proposed-for-election-to-greater-than-board-of-directors,c4131011 The following files are available for download: Bronx Community Members Serve as a Solution to Addressing Unmet Needs BRONX, N.Y., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Community Health Worker Institute (CHWI) at Montefiore, a novel program that improves the wellbeing of local residents and creates new healthcare career paths, has marked a major milestone. Since launching in 2021, the CHWI has assisted more than 10,000 Bronx households. By creating the Institute and hiring dedicated community health workers (CHWs), experts in navigating gaps between medical care and social services, a new, formidable healthcare workforce is being molded, and health outcomes of Bronx residents are tangibly improving. The Community Health Workers Team at Montefiore Einstein Today, 34 CHWs are deployed throughout Montefiore, spanning hospitals, primary care, OB-GYN clinics and specialty care areas like Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center. The locations of CHWs are based on feedback to a social determinants of health (SDOH) survey, which flags when patients express challenges like housing issues or food insecurity, which negatively impact their health. SDOH, like inadequate access to transportation, are directly linked to missed doctor's appointments, which causes missed opportunities to care for patients' health needs at the primary care level. This, in turn, causes more reliance on other areas of the health system like emergency departments. Last year, Montefiore researchers found that when a person has at least one health related social need, this can equate to more than 175,000 "no show" appointments annually. The researchers also found that when a patient has more than one health related social need, this leads to approximately $1,772 in healthcare resources like higher inappropriate or avoidable health system utilization, compared to patients without these challenges. More than 340,000 people have been screened since 2018, making Montefiore one of the largest SDOH screening platforms in the country. According to its data, around 14% of Montefiore patients have at least one social need. After engaging with a CHW, 94% of patients reported making progress with their challenge or having their need resolved. "The Bronx is known for being the home of the Yankees, now the number of people who have identified at least one social need can fill up the whole stadium," said Renee Whiskey-LaLanne, M.P.H., MCHES, associate director, CHWI, and director, Community Partnerships in the department of family and social medicine at Montefiore Health System and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. "We are not just addressing social needs; we're hearing about health improvements like improved asthma and diabetes management. As we continue to build on this progress, our hope is for the CHWI to be viewed as another winning institution that only could have started here, in this borough." CREATING NEW CAREER PATHS Around the world, CHWs have been instrumental in refining public health messages, building trusting relationships and strengthening healthcare systems, including the healthcare workforce. At Montefiore, CHWs often come from surrounding communities, and many have shared lived experiences with the patients they assist. By recruiting individuals who are experts in the Bronx, patients feel understood and better supported, while at the same time, new career paths for residents are established. Since the CHWI inception, CHWs at Montefiore have moved up the ranks, becoming supervisors and training specialists as well as carving out paths to pursue occupations like social work, nursing, and other health or community- based professions, due to on-the-job training, educational classes and experiences CHW gain working as part of clinical teams. "By investing in CHWs, we're improving the overall health and well-being of Bronx residents and creating new career options for non-medical professionals," said Kevin Fiori, M.D., M.P.H., M.S., director of CHWI and Social Determinants of Health, as well as associate professor, Departments of Pediatrics and Family & Social Medicine at Montefiore Health System and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. "Our community isn't just where people live and work it is home to our greatest resource for delivering healthcare more effectively and making a real impact on people's lives." About Montefiore Health System Montefiore Health System is one of New York's premier academic health systems. It is a recognized leader in providing exceptional quality and personalized, accountable care to approximately three million people in communities across the Bronx, Westchester, and the Hudson Valley. It comprises ten hospitals, including the Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, and over two hundred outpatient ambulatory care sites. The advanced clinical and translational research at its medical school, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, directly informs patient care and improves outcomes. From the Montefiore-Einstein Centers of Excellence in cancer, cardiology and vascular care, pediatrics, and transplantation, to its preeminent school-based health program, Montefiore is a fully integrated healthcare delivery system providing coordinated, comprehensive care to patients and their families. For more information, please visit www.montefiore.org . Follow us on Twitter , Instagram , and LinkedIn , or view us on Facebook and YouTube SOURCE Montefiore Health System WASHINGTON, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA acting Administrator Janet Petro and acting Associate Administrator Vanessa Wyche will lead the agency's delegation at the 40th Space Symposium, Monday, April 7 through Thursday, April 10, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Petro will join Space Foundation Chief Executive Officer Heather Pringle for a fireside chat to discuss NASA's current priorities and partnerships at 12:15 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, April 8. Additional NASA participation in the conference includes a one-on-one discussion with Nicola Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate, and a lunar science and exploration panel featuring Lori Glaze, acting associate administrator, Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate. A full agenda for this year's Space Symposium is available online. Conference attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about NASA's missions and projects on a variety of topics during brief talks with subject matter experts in the agency's exhibit space. NASA will provide photos and updates about its participation in the Space Symposium from its @NASAExhibit account on X. For more information about NASA, visit: https://www.nasa.gov SOURCE NASA Founded By Public Housing Residents, First Institution in U.S. to Interpret History and Policies of Public Housing Opens Today CHICAGO, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Public Housing Museum opened its doors to the public today, marking the culmination of an 18-year journey to complete an expansive adaptive reuse project of the last remaining building of the Jane Addams Homes at 919 S. Ada Street on Chicago's near west side. Founded by public housing residents, the Museum is a vibrant new cultural destination in Chicago, and a place to experience stories of hope and personal achievement amid struggle, resistance, and resilience. "This museum was built by hundreds of dedicated people who have made it a reality," said Sunny Fischer, Co-Founder and Board Chair for the National Public Housing Museum. "They shared their stories, and they patiently provided their labor and love and support over the last 18 years. As a Site of Conscience, we join museums around the world committed to telling complicated and difficult stories, preserving history, and imagining a more just future." Founded by public housing residents, the Museum is a vibrant new cultural destination in Chicago. Post this "The National Public Housing Museum is dedicated to the belief that housing is a human right," said Executive Director Dr. Lisa Yun Lee. "The dazzling stories, precious keepsakes, compelling cultural production of public housing, and activism of public housing residents have much to teach us. And because housing insecurity and injustice is such a critical issue facing so many people across our nation, the National Public Housing Museum will be an important civic anchor that brings people together to imagine innovative solutions and envision a more equitable future." "Growing up in public housing, I saw the strength, pride, and resilience of our communities, which are too often erased," said Francine Washington, Chairperson of the Central Advisory Committee for the Chicago Housing Authority and board member of the National Public Housing Museum. "This Museum is personal. It's the first in the country to tell our storiesnot just the bricks and buildings but the people who made public housing, home. We've always had a voice. Now we have a place that listens." Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring remarks from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Museum board members, public housing residents, city officials, and artists, the Museum welcomed visitors to participate in a weekend-long Opening Weekend celebration, including meet-and-greets with artists, hands-on art-making sessions, and even a dance party emceed by DJ Spinderella. Opening weekend events are free and open to the public; it is recommended that visitors register in advance at www.nphm.org . # # # ABOUT THE NATIONAL PUBLIC HOUSING MUSEUM Our story starts with a simple truth: that all people have the right to a home. Founded by public housing residents, the National Public Housing Museum is the first cultural institution dedicated to interpreting the American experience in public housing. Filled with history, memories, music, and art, the Museum is a welcoming community gathering place that honors the stories and experiences of public housing residents. Through partnerships and programs, the Museum also serves as a civic incubator that inspires visitors to take informed action to advance housing justice. Mission To preserve, promote, and propel the right of all people to a place where they can live and prospera place to call home. Location 919 S Ada Street Chicago, IL 60607 (773) 635-9919 [email protected] nphm.org SOURCE National Public Housing Museum HOUSTON, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rice University has launched the Institute of Health Resilience and Innovation (IHRI), a pioneering research initiative dedicated to understanding the lifetime impacts of health stressors and developing targeted interventions to improve well-being across diverse populations. "The Institute of Health Resilience and Innovation exemplifies Rice's commitment to leading in health innovations." Post this Rice University, Houston, TX Led by director Christopher Fagundes, professor of psychological sciences, along with deputy director Tony Brown, distinguished professor of sociology at Rice, and executive director Kristi English, the institute will examine how biological, psychological and social factors interact over time to shape health outcomes. By bridging scientific discovery with real-world applications, IHRI seeks to promote health resilience at both the individual and community levels. "The launch of the Institute of Health Resilience and Innovation exemplifies Rice University's commitment to leading in health innovations a strategic priority for our institution," Rice President Reginald DesRoches said. "By leveraging our strengths in interdisciplinary research and collaborating with the Texas Medical Center, we are poised to make meaningful contributions to understanding and improving health resilience. This institute will not only generate groundbreaking discoveries but also translate them into real-world solutions that benefit individuals and communities, both in Houston and beyond." "The Institute of Health Resilience and Innovation embodies Rice's dedication to tackling society's most pressing challenges through interdisciplinary research," said Rachel Kimbro, dean of the School of Social Sciences. "By combining expertise from multiple disciplines, including those grounded in the social sciences, IHRI will generate insights that lead to actionable solutions, advancing health resilience for individuals and communities. I'm proud to see our faculty leading this vital work and collaborating across disciplines to drive meaningful change." Comprehensive approach to health resilience IHRI is pioneering a "cells-to-society" approach to understanding health, investigating how social determinants including socioeconomic status, geographic location and social conditions shape well-being over a lifetime. By connecting molecular-level changes within cells to broader social and environmental influences, the institute seeks to build a holistic understanding of health resilience and uncover the complex pathways that drive differences in health trajectories across the lifespan. "This institute reflects Rice's commitment to advancing innovations in health," Fagundes said. "By bringing together experts from multiple disciplines and fostering collaboration, we aim to uncover how individuals and communities can better withstand and recover from health challenges. Our research will lead to real-world solutions that strengthen resilience at every level: biological, psychological, social and environmental." Once risk patterns are identified spanning all levels, IHRI will target the most strategic intervention points to drive positive change. By addressing systemic stressors, strengthening community and individual resilience and creating tailored strategies, the institute will work to close health gaps and enhance well-being across populations. Houston as a living laboratory for health research As one of the most diverse cities in the nation, Houston provides an ideal setting to study the complex factors influencing health resilience, institute leaders said. With its vast socioeconomic diversity, wide-ranging health care access and varied environmental exposures, the city serves as a real-world laboratory for identifying and addressing health resilience. "Houston is a microcosm of the broader health challenges faced nationwide," Fagundes said. "By studying the city's diverse populations, we can develop tailored, scalable interventions that promote health at both local and national levels." Bridging research with the Texas Medical Center A key component of IHRI's mission is strengthening collaboration between Rice faculty and the Texas Medical Center (TMC) to accelerate the translation of research into clinical practice. This will include partnerships with medical professionals, health care institutions and translational research teams within the TMC. IHRI will act as a facilitator for interdisciplinary collaboration, assisting faculty in navigating the complexities of clinical research and partnering with the TMC on research partnerships. Empowering researchers and students IHRI will provide crucial support for students, postdoctoral researchers and faculty by developing infrastructure for pilot studies, offering seed grants for early stage research and hosting educational workshops to streamline the grant application process. The institute will also provide guidance on grant development and offer dedicated funding for dissertation projects focused on health resilience, particularly those that take a transdisciplinary approach. Additionally, IHRI will work to establish infrastructure that allows researchers at all levels students, postdocs and faculty to integrate cutting-edge methods and technologies into their existing research at reduced or no cost. The goal is to generate high-quality data that can support competitive applications for large-scale grants and long-term funding opportunities. English, longtime manager of Fagundes' lab, will oversee these efforts. "By equipping researchers with the necessary resources, we hope to accelerate scientific discoveries and practical interventions that promote health resilience regardless of where a person was born or the circumstances they face," English said. She called her transition into the role "an incredible honor and an exciting new chapter" and emphasized the importance of collaborating with researchers, practitioners and community partners to develop innovative solutions that improve health resilience for all. For more information about the IHRI, visit https://ihri.rice.edu. About Rice University Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of architecture, business, continuing studies, engineering and computing, humanities, music, natural sciences and social sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. Internationally, the university maintains the Rice Global Paris Center, a hub for innovative collaboration, research and inspired teaching located in the heart of Paris, and Rice Global India in Bengaluru. With 4,776 undergraduates and 4,104 graduate students, Rice's undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is just under 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for lots of race/class interaction and No. 7 for best-run colleges by the Princeton Review. SOURCE Rice University NEW YORK, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Noble Panacea recently announced the sad passing of their esteemed founder, Professor Sir Fraser Stoddart. He was a remarkable pioneer, outstanding Chair Professor, Nobel Laureate Chemist, and the founder, inspiration and vision of the Noble Panacea skincare brand. In continuing Sir Fraser's legacy, Noble Panacea is proud to share the news of its newly appointed Chief Technology Officer; Dr. Benjie Limketkai PhD. DR. BENJIE LIMKETKAI (PRNewsfoto/Noble Panacea) DR. BENJIE LIMKETKAI AND SIR FRASER (PRNewsfoto/Noble Panacea) Professor Stoddart worked with Dr. Limketkai for many years as he was doing his PhD research at MIT, before he was hand-selected as Professor Stoddart's first employee in 2015 to define applications to democratize and share his groundbreaking Organic Super Molecular Vessel (OSMV) innovation, the Technology that fuels all Noble Panacea products. Dr. Limketkai first met Professor Stoddart while working in his laboratory as an R&D scientist specializing in nanomaterial research. It was Professor Stoddart who introduced Dr. Limketkai to supramolecular chemistry and while training at his lab under Sir Fraser's mentorship, they built a partnership helping to develop and share Professor Stoddart's breakthrough OSMV with the world. When Professor Stoddart launched the Noble Panacea brand in 2019 he understood that the OSMV Technology could transform the beauty sector. Dr. Limketkai has noted: "The OSMV Technology is an unparalleled delivery system that has redefined the skincare industry. This breakthrough innovation orchestrates the precise release of each potent active ingredient at the optimal moment, seamlessly synchronizing with the skin's natural rhythm to deliver high-performance results. A true fusion of cutting-edge deep-tech science and skincare, our technology ensures an elevated skincare experience like never before." Dr. Benjie Limketkai "When I embarked on the journey of co-creating Noble Panacea in 2018, one of the first individuals I had the privilege of meeting at Northwestern University was Sir Fraser Stoddart, alongside Dr. Benjie Limketkai. From the outset, we recognized the immense potential of our collaboration. Dr. Limketkai, an MIT PhD, has been instrumental in leading the pioneering mission to commercialize OSMVTM for the first time. Since the groundbreaking launch at Met in 2019, he has overseen our R&D efforts with remarkable expertise and dedication. His ability to demystify complex scientific concepts and communicate them with clarity to diverse audiences has been invaluable. As a Deep-Tech organization, Noble Panacea requires visionary leadership in technology, and Dr. Limketkai was the natural choice for the role of Chief Technology Officer. I look forward to carrying forward Sir Fraser Stoddart's legacy within Dr. Limketkai's leadership, a vision we have consistently shared and will continue to uphold." Celine Talabaza, Noble Panacea Co-Creator & CEO Dr. Limketkai is prized with building the brand alongside Professor Stoddart from the ground up, hiring research scientists to work on the skincare formulations at the brand's own private lab in Irvine, California, something not typically seen within cosmetic formulation companies. Stationed at the Noble Panacea lab, Dr. Limketkai's contributions to the brand are exponential, including: Evolution of OSMV structures Discovering new trigger release factors for ingredients (water concentration, pH level, enzyme in the skin, light, etc) The release of ingredients matched in sync with the skin's overnight biorhythm on The Exceptional Chronobiology Sleep Mask Combining humectants in oils with The Absolute Nourishing Lift Oil Enabling UV exposure to trigger the release of antioxidant algae to protect the skin in The Energist Multi-Defense Cream SPF 50 Additionally, Dr. Limktetkai has been involved in the wider evolution of the OSMV across other technologies. At the same time as the launch of Noble Panacea, Professor Stoddart and Dr. Limketkai began to work on another project linked to the environment and clean energy, an area of importance to both, including the inclusiveness and access to education for the most disadvantaged. Noble Panacea looks forward to continuing Professor Stoddart's legacy under the leadership of Dr. Limketkai as he continues the advancements and development of the OSMV Technology, a true gift from Professor Sir Fraser Stoddart. Media Contact: [email protected] SOURCE Noble Panacea Local Business Offers a Revolutionary Alternative to Traditional Sanding and Refinishing NORTH ATLANTA, Ga., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ReCoat Revolution, the industry leader in fast and mess-free floor refinishing, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location in North Atlanta, Georgia. With its innovative "Clean" approach to floor restoration, ReCoat Revolution provides homeowners and businesses with a seamless solution to revive their floors without the hassle, dust, or downtime associated with traditional refinishing methods. Will Walton, owner of ReCoat Revolution of North Atlanta, proudly shows off his recoated floor. "Our goal is simple: to treat our customers' properties as if they were our own," said Will Walton, owner of the new North Atlanta location covering Alpharetta, Brookhaven, Roswell, Johns Creek, Dunwoody, Chastain Park and the surrounding areas. "Atlanta is a community that appreciates both innovation and preservation, and we're excited to bring our game-changing service to homeowners and businesses looking to refresh their floors without the mess." ReCoat Revolution's unique refinishing process allows floors to be restored in a fraction of the time it takes traditional methods, using advanced coatings that provide long-lasting durability. The eco-friendly process eliminates the need for harsh chemicals and excessive sanding, making it a safer and more sustainable option for property owners. The expansion into North Atlanta is a special milestone for Will, who has a passion for home renovation. He started the business after exiting 26 years in corporate America where held VP and director-level positions with Honda and Cummins. "Bringing ReCoat Revolution to North Atlanta feels like a breath of fresh air," Will added. "Having recently worked with my general contractor on the remodel of my 1980's home in Alpharetta, I learned to really appreciate the importance of well-maintained flooring, so being able to offer that service to my local community is exciting." With the transformative magic of the Clean ReCoat Process, you can revitalize your property's allure, bolster its resilience, and amplify its overall value. ReCoat Revolution is now open for bookings in North Atlanta, with services available for residential and commercial properties. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, visit recoatrevolution.com/northatlanta or call 678-695-8006. About ReCoat Revolution: ReCoat Revolution provides customers with exceptionally quick, professional cleaning and refinishing for their floors. We choose to serve others as we would want to be served, pursuing every opportunity for individual and collective growth, developing our God-given talents and strengths. At ReCoat Revolution, we aim to set a new standard for customer service in the home service industry through our ground-breaking refinishing services. We aim to transform our customers' expectations for their floor cleaning and refinishing - one floor at a time. SOURCE ReCoat Revolution of North Atlanta WASHINGTON, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The National PACE Association (NPA) is tracking efforts to reorganize the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), including reported staffing cuts. Initial reporting suggests that coordination for Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) will move under the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) in the new structure. "We in the PACE community are excited about the growth that PACE is experiencing," said Shawn Bloom, president and CEO of NPA. "We are reassured to hear reports that PACE growth was a consideration during the HHS reorganization process. We have a long history of working in partnership with CMS and CMMI in pursuit of our shared mission of improving care for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries in need of long-term services and supports." The PACE model of care was created as a partnership between the federal and state governments and health care providers to support older Americans' wish for person-centered care in their community. The program has a long history of innovation and integrating Medicare and Medicaid resources into a seamless and cost-effective delivery model. The success of the model has led to its rapid growth in recent years due to the recognition of PACE as a successful model for meeting the needs of older adults in the community. "NPA is eager to continue our work with HHS and CMS to ensure that access to PACE services is uninterrupted and that PACE growth and expansion continues to meet the growing need for community-based senior care in America," Bloom said. The National PACE Association (NPA) works to advance the efforts of PACE programs, which coordinate and provide preventive, primary, acute and long-term care services so older individuals can continue living in the community. The PACE model of care is centered on the belief that it is better for the well-being of seniors with chronic care needs and their families to be served in the community whenever possible. For more information, visit www.NPAonline.org and follow @TweetNPA. SOURCE National PACE Association KYIV, Ukraine, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ukrainian Agribusiness Club (UCAB), together with leading agricultural associations within the Public Union "Ukrainian National Agrarian Forum" (UNAF), which was established to coordinate specialized agricultural associations and form and present a unified position of the agri-food sector of Ukraine on behalf of its members - leading agricultural associations: Agrarian Union of Ukraine, All-Ukrainian Agrarian Council, Poultry Union of Ukraine, Ukrainian Agrarian Confederation, Ukrainian Agribusiness Club, Association of Milk Producers, Association of Pig Breeders of Ukraine and National Association of Sugar Producers of Ukraine, emphasizes the urgent need to resolve the issue of the future trade regime between Ukraine and the EU following the expiration of the current Autonomous Trade Measures (ATM) regime. The Ukrainian agrarian community does not oppose the European Commission's proposal to replace the annual extension of the ATM with bilateral trade agreements for further trade liberalization under Article 29 of the Association Agreement, provided there is sufficient time to negotiate the future trade framework. The relevant position of the Ukrainian agrarian community is available at the provided link. According to representatives of the Ukrainian agricultural sector, such a decision would contribute to the stability of market access to the EU for Ukrainian producers and ensure predictability for European farmers and processors. The key advantages of this approach include the long-term nature of the agreement, guaranteeing stability for agribusiness; a bilateral format with mutual market access; and a flexible mechanism for gradual liberalization, taking into account sensitive product categories and safeguard measures. At the same time, Ukraine calls for an accelerated negotiation process regarding the future trade agreement, as the expiration of the current ATM regime on June 5, 2025. Without reaching a new agreement before the ATM's expiry date, the trade regime between Ukraine and the EU would automatically return to the tariffs and tariff quotas that were in place before 2022. Preliminary estimates suggest that such changes could result in an economic shock for Ukraine, including a loss of foreign exchange earnings of up to 3.3 billion, a 2.52% GDP reduction in 2025, and declines in production in agriculture (-7.74%) and drop in tax revenues for local and state budgets (-4,15%). "If a trade agreement based on Article 29 of the Association Agreement is not reached within the established timeframe, the European Commission must urgently initiate the extension of the current ATM regime for the period necessary to finalize negotiations. This will help avoid a sharp deterioration in the conditions for Ukrainian goods entering the EU market and prevent a macro-financial shock to the country's stability," the document states. It is worth recalling that the agricultural sector is a cornerstone of Ukraine's economic stability, contributing approximately 15% of GDP, 59.3% of foreign exchange earnings ($24.7 billion), and significant tax revenues. The war has caused over $80 billion in direct and indirect losses to the sector, while ongoing high-intensity military actions make the prospects for sustainable recovery uncertain, necessitating continued support from Ukraine's allies, at least in the medium term. The EU remains the primary market for Ukrainian agricultural exports (51.8%) and a key supplier of essential agricultural resources. While Ukraine has regained access to maritime export routes via the ports of Big Odesa, these routes are currently viable only for bulk cargo shipments due to ongoing hostilities. In contrast, packed and ready-to-eat products requiring container transportation are still exported via the "Solidarity Lanes" to the nearest EU ports, increasing logistics costs and reducing the competitiveness of Ukrainian goods in traditional markets. Therefore, Ukraine's agricultural sector is critically dependent on the European market not only as a consumer but also as a partner ensuring stable supply chains, logistics, and access to financial instruments for industry development. "Reverting to the tariff quotas and import duties of 2021 would have devastating consequences for Ukraine's economy. A trade agreement based on Article 29 of the Association Agreement or the extension of the ATM is essential for the stability of Ukraine's agricultural sector and the economy as a whole," the authors of the position conclude. Given the above, Ukraine urges the European Commission and EU member states to accelerate negotiations on a future ambitious trade regime with Ukraine, taking into account current trade volumes. This will ensure the stability of the Ukrainian agricultural sector and support the country's economy during an exceptionally challenging period. Association "Ukrainian Agribusiness Club" (UCAB) was founded in 2007 to protect the economic and professional interests of Ukrainian agricultural business players. UCAB is a unique platform for creating business contacts between agribusiness leaders, increasing the efficiency of their work and establishing dialogue with government authorities. UCAB actively promotes Ukrainian manufacturers in establishing and supporting international business relations. The association includes the largest producers and processors of agricultural products in Ukraine. More about UCAB: https://www.ucab.ua/en SOURCE Association Ukrainian Agribusiness Club (UCAB) Consolidated revenues of 630 million, marking a 6% increase compared to 2023, driven by organic growth across all key markets and channels EBITDA of 110 million, up 19% from 2023 EBIT of 61 million, reflecting a 50% increase year-over-year Net profit surpassing 33 million, up 42% from 2023 Extraordinary 1 million employee bonus in recognition of outstanding performance TRIESTE, Italy, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Directors of illycaffe S.p.A. has approved the draft Financial Statements of the parent company illycaffe S.p.A., along with the Consolidated Financial Statements for the 2024 financial year. In 2024, group revenues reached 630 million, reflecting a 6% year-over-year increase. This strong organic growth was fueled by rising sales volumes across all key markets, particularly in Italy, the United States, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. The Gross Operating Margin (EBITDA) grew to 110 million, up 19% from 2023, driven by increased volumes and sustained organic growth. The EBITDA margin improved to 17.5% of revenues, reflecting a 1.9 percentage point increase from the previous year. The Net Operating Margin (EBIT) rose to 61 million, a 50% increase compared to 2023, supported by EBITDA growth and a lower depreciation impact on net revenues. Net profit exceeded 33 million, marking a 42% increase, in line with EBIT's strong upward trajectory. The Net Financial Position stood at 109 million, reflecting a 10% improvement year-over-year. Strong cash generation enabled strategic investments aimed at expanding production capacity, advancing sustainable innovation, and accelerating digital transformation. The PFN/EBITDA ratio was 1x, down 0.3 percentage points compared to 2023. Given these record-breaking results, illycaffe will award an extraordinary 1 million bonus to its over 1,000 employees worldwide, recognizing their dedication and contribution to the company's success. Cristina Scocchia, illycaffe's CEO commented: "2024 marked the third consecutive year of robust organic growth, with double-digit increases in both EBITDA and net profit, despite a challenging macroeconomic and geopolitical environment and persistently rising raw material costs. Over the past year, we accelerated our sustainable innovation initiatives and international expansion strategies launched over the last three years. In recognition of our exceptional performance, we have decided to award an extraordinary 1 million bonus to our employees in appreciation of their unwavering commitment. Looking ahead, 2025 presents challenges for our industry, particularly due to the surging costs of raw materials, which have now doubled after already increasing by approximately 40% in 2024. We are committed to mitigating the impact on margins caused by rising green coffee prices while continuing to invest in innovation and international growth. Additionally, we reaffirm our 120 million investment plan aimed at doubling our production and logistics capacity in Trieste." In 2024, all the main markets in which the group is present grew compared to 2023. The group further consolidated its leadership position in Italy within the super-premium coffee segment. In Europe, growth was primarily driven by Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. The United States, the group's priority market, recorded strong growth (+11% compared to 2023) in all distribution channels, particularly online (+18% compared to 2023). From a channel perspective, Ho.Re.Ca. grew by approximately 6% compared to 2023, with standout performances in Italy, the United States, Spain, and France. Revenues from the Modern Distribution channel increased sharply (+10% compared to 2023), particularly in Italy, the United States, the United Kingdom and Spain. About illycaffe illycaffe is an Italian family business, founded in Trieste in 1933 and committed to offering the greatest coffee to the world. It produces the unique illy 100% Arabica blend made of 9 of the world's best selections of Arabica, with a constant eye towards innovation. The bestowing of the first "Ernesto Illy Award for quality espresso coffee" in 1991 in Brazil and the "Ernesto Illy International Coffee Award" in 2016 symbolize its commitment to coffee growers, to whom illy pays a premium price for quality coffee. In 2019 it adopted Societa Benefit status under Italian law, and in 2021 it became the first Italian coffee company to obtain B Corp international certification thanks to its commitment to abiding by the highest environmental and social performance standards. The company, which is present in over 140 countries, recorded consolidated revenues of 630 million in 2024. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2658214/illycaffe__illy__Logo_Logo.jpg NOTICE TORONTO, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - The Company's results for the 2025 first quarter will be issued by press release on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, after the close of business at 5:00 p.m. ET. An Investor Conference Call will be hosted by Martin L. Juravsky, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and John G. Reid, President and Chief Executive Officer on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. ET to review the results. To join the conference call without operator assistance, you may register and enter your phone number at https://emportal.ink/4c8rsoZ to receive an instant automated call back. You can also dial direct to be entered to the call by an Operator. Dial-in telephone numbers for the call are 1-416-945-7677 (Toronto and International callers) and 1-888-699-1199 (U.S. and Canada). Please dial in 10 minutes prior to the call to ensure that you get a line. A replay of the call will be available at 1-289-819-1450 (Toronto and International callers) and 1-888-660-6345 (U.S. and Canada) until midnight, Wednesday, May 21, 2025. You will be required to enter pass code 34885# in order to access the call. If you would like to unsubscribe from receiving notices of our Investor Quarterly Conference Calls, you may do so by emailing [email protected]; or by calling our Investor Relations Line: 905-816-5178. If you have any additional questions, please contact our Investor Relations Department at [email protected] or 905-816-5178. SOURCE Russel Metals Inc. A nonprofit animal rescue organization in Greene County may soon be in need of a rescue of its own. Zaras Chance has been accused of negligence in the deaths of multiple exotic animals, employing a convicted child sex offender who helped host childrens birthday parties, bringing unvaccinated puppies to public spaces and potentially exposing other dogs to disease and infection, and misleading sheriffs deputies and members of the public. The Daily Progress was informed of the accusations by an anonymous source. And while the Greene County Sheriffs Office would not confirm if Zaras Chance was under investigation, a source familiar with the matter speaking under condition of anonymity said the rescue is, in fact, being actively looked into. These are accusations, but nothing official can be discussed, the Greene County Sheriffs Office told The Daily Progress. According to its Facebook page, Zaras Chance is a Woman run animal rescue working with all manner of domestic pets (dogs, cats, reptiles) specializing in exotic animals. We are a foster based rescue where all animals reside in homes. Located in Greene County Va serving Central Virgina [sic] and beyond! Since opening in June of last year, Zaras Chance has regularly worked with children in Central Virginia, according to founder and CEO Meghan Bickers. We put so much emphasis on engaging with children in the community. We have regular junior volunteers ranging from 13-16 years old, Bickers told The Daily Progress in an email in early March. But in a follow-up email, Bickers then said the rescue was discontinuing its youth programs. It just takes a lot of staff to make sure kids are as safe as possible and we have some staff members picking up additional jobs! she said. It was around the same time that the organization was alerted it was being looked into for animal neglect and employing a worker listed on the Virginia Sex Offender Registry working with children, according to the source familiar with the matter. Up until a few weeks ago, Brittney Demmer, listed as a manager at Zaras Chance, was making appearances at childrens birthday parties with the organizations animal ambassadors. But back in 2009, when Demmer was living in Albemarle County and working at a local day care, she was arrested on child pornography charges. During Demmers trial, prosecutor Darby Lowe said Demmer had searched the LimeWire file-sharing service for inappropriate images of young children and browsed them while her husband slept, according to court documents. Demmer ended up pleading guilty to 10 counts of possession of child pornography and received a 10-year suspended sentence, a year of probation and a requirement of 10 years of good behavior, according to court records. Demmer is considered a Tier I sex offender, under Virginia law. According to the State Crime Commission, a person on the Tier I list is considered less of a risk to the public. Demmer did not produce or distribute child pornography, requirements for a higher offense. While businesses do not have to disclose an employees criminal background, some have expressed disgust with Zaras Chances decision to allow Demmer to engage with young children knowing her history. Bickers maintains that Demmer did not pose a threat to children and that the youth programs at Zaras Chance were not discontinued because the public learned of Demmers criminal record. Please be assured that we adhere to all legal regulations. Brittneys conviction was a Tier 1 offense, the lowest level, indicating a low public safety risk. Her probationary period, related to a 16-year-old offense, has concluded, and there are no current restrictions on her interactions with children. The junior volunteer program did not proceed as planned due to staffing limitations, not Brittneys involvement. The single junior volunteer currently participating does so with their mother present, who is fully informed, Bickers said. But that is not the only allegation threatening the organization. Zaras Chance has reported multiple exotic animal deaths in recent months. And while it claims to specialize in exotic animal care, local exotic animal specialists and veterinarians have no record of Zaras Chance reaching out for assistance. In early March, Zaras Chance reported that a lizard named Goliath had died while in the organizations care. Alot [sic] of joy comes from running an animal rescue. But with that also comes saddness [sic]. Animals passing is a part of rescue that never gets easier, Zaras Chance posted on Facebook on March 4. Our dear old man Goliath passed away this evening. Goliath lived a very long life (20 years!) and even though we were only caring for him at the end he made an impact. Goliath passed with warmth, a full belly, and resting on his very favorite tree branch. His passing is easier to swallow because this wasnt done from human negligence, the post continued. But those who saw the post and attached photos said it is impossible to rule out human negligence, claiming Goliath looked dehydrated and sick. They said the lizard should have been taken to an exotic animal veterinarian. But local exotic animal veterinarians have no record of Zaras Chance or any of its employees bringing the lizard in for care, according to the source familiar with the ongoing review of the organizations practices. The Daily Progress asked multiple exotic animal veterinarians in the area if they had any history of servicing exotic animals from Zaras Chance. Their answers were the same: No. Goliath was not alone. A rabbit from a recent Greene County Animal Control seizure also did not live long in the care of Zaras Chance. Cali, a white-haired Holland Lop rabbit, was given to the rescue after sheriffs deputies removed the rabbit from its prior residence. Cali was in Zaras Chances care for only 17 days, from Oct. 10 through Oct. 27, before it died. Addressing Calis situation, she was surrendered to animal control due to severe neglect. She was in critical condition upon arrival, and we immediately provided critical care, a standard practice for debilitated rabbits, Bickers said. During a phone conversation with a board member, I noted Calis condition was stable enough for transport to the vet. Tragically, she passed away within 24 hours. Her death was a direct result of prior neglect. We dedicated significant time and effort to her care during her brief stay with us. Zaras Chance is not only misleading the public about its work but the authorities, according to Emily Conrad, founder of Rad Ranch Rescue in Stanardsville. Meghan told a member of the Greene County Sheriffs Office that she worked for Rad Ranch Rescue when she did not work for us. Her assistance at the sheriffs office was accepted under our name. But she never told me that her help was accepted under our name, Conrad told The Daily Progress. Although many of Zaras Chance actions are not illegal, a lot of what they have done would be considered highly unethical in the rescue community. Bickers responded that she had cleared up the confusion with the sheriffs office. I clarified that while I know Emily at Rad Ranch and planned to volunteer with her, I never stated I was working for or with Rad Ranch, she said. Conrad highlighted a recent cat rescue operation in Greene County. Cat Action Team, a rescue organization working in and around Charlottesville, initiated the removal of more than 45 felines from a feral cat colony last summer. The team confirmed with The Daily Progress it paid for vetting services for the cats. Zaras Chance helped transport the cats to veterinary facilities but also requested a $100 rehoming fee from families adopting cats once they were ready to be rehomed, telling the public the money covered medical expenses which had already been paid for by Cat Action Team. I initiated the Roach Road cat colony project independently, personally covering the medical expenses for many cats, including vaccines, dewormer, flea treatment, and antibiotics, before TNR [trap-neuter-return] organizations became involved, Bickers said. Following Cat Action Teams participation, we discussed rehoming fees, as charging a fee is essential to ensure the animals long-term well-being. But the head of Cat Action Team said she was unaware that Bickers group had charged a rehoming fee. We paid for all, or almost all, of the spay/neuter surgeries, vaccinations and parasite treatment, Betsy Bellenger, president of Cat Action Team, told The Daily Progress. I wasnt aware that Zaras Chance had asked for a $100 rehoming fee. I dont begrudge them for that. Their assistance in trapping and getting cats to the vet was huge. Conrad said she also doesnt begrudge Bickers for raising funds or helping animals in need; its how shes going about it. Being accurate and transparent is immeasurably important in animal rescue, as the field is rife with misappropriation of funds, loose ethics and questionable operations, said Conrad. There is no problem with fundraising anytime and for anything related to a rescues operations, but the issue is she continues to misrepresent how peoples donations are being used. She appeals to the public saying the funds are for one thing, but in reality those costs have already been covered, or will be covered by other means. Bickers did admit to a lapse in judgement when it came to allowing unvaccinated puppies in public spaces. Both Bickers and Demmer can be seen in a Jan. 19 Facebook post bathing puppies at a Tractor Supply store in Ruckersville. Those puppies did not receive their first vaccines until Jan. 24, potentially exposing other dogs also at Tractor Supply to infection and disease. Puppies should not be in public until fully vaccinated, according to PetMD, a leading resource for dog and cat health with a worldwide network of veterinarians. Puppies exposed to public dog baths, dog parks or even other dogs they encounter on a walk could potentially infect them with parvovirus, kennel cough and rabies, among other infections. Many of those can be fatal, have no cure and can cost thousands of dollars in treatment, according to PetMD. Concerning the puppies bathed in a public setting, I acknowledge that it was not an ideal decision, Bickers said. The puppies were very dirty and needed a good fresh start before going to their foster homes. We sought a quick solution to clean them. We used Tractor Supply as they were preparing to close their bathing area for the day, and we confirmed there were no other patrons using the dog wash at the time. While well-intentioned, we recognize this was a lapse in judgment and will not repeat it. Zaras Chance, as a nonprofit animal rescue, is subject to state veterinarian inspections, in the same way public animal shelters are inspected. Virginia is one of only a few states that defines private animal rescues as shelters. The care of companion animals in Virginia is the responsibility of the rescue, and adequate care and treatment, including preventative vaccines, is a part of that responsibility. Inadequate care is a violation and a Class 4 misdemeanor. More locally, all dogs at a rescue must be registered with the Greene County treasurer. However, the Greene County Treasurers Office could not confirm the record of any dog license issued to Zaras Chance or anyone affiliated with the organization. The Greene County Animal Control Division is responsible for enforcing the dog licenses. Unlicensed dog owners can be penalized with a $250 fine and charged with a Class 4 misdemeanor for each unlicensed dog. I have a huge concern that the misrepresentation Meghan has been engaging in and the ways in which she has been misleading members of the public are detrimental to legitimate rescue efforts, Conrad said. PASADENA, Calif., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In the wake of the Eaton Fire, Saint Mark's School , an independent Episcopal school in Altadena, and EF Academy Pasadena , a private day and boarding high school, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially unveil Saint Mark's Village, the newly completed temporary learning space for Saint Mark's Developmental Kindergarten (DK) through 6th grade on the EF Academy campus. This milestone marks a stepping stone for Saint Mark's recovery following the Eaton Fire, ensuring uninterrupted learning for students while the cleanup and eventual rebuilding of its permanent campus continues. EF Academy is a private boarding school with a global student population with campuses in Oxford, UK, Thornwood, NY, and Pasadena, CA. St. Marks is an independent Episcopal school based in Altadena, California, specializing in early childhood and elementary education. The partnership, which was initially announced three weeks after the fires , went from vision to reality in less than two months making it the fastest local school rebuilding effort to date. "This ribbon-cutting represents more than just a temporary solutionit's a testament to our community's resilience and the collective effort to keep education at the forefront," said Jennifer Tolbert, Head of School at Saint Mark's. "Thanks to the generosity of EF Academy, the dedication of countless supporters, and the critical state measures that expedited rebuilding efforts, our students can continue their education without disruption. We are confident that when we return to our permanent campus, it will be even stronger and better for the future." The new Saint Mark's Village spans more than 12,000 square feet, featuring 22 classrooms, administrative offices, and dedicated outdoor space to foster a sense of continuity and community for Saint Mark's students. Built on 32,000 square feet of previously unused land area at EF Academy, the Village was designed in collaboration with PjHM Architects and WillScot, to provide a high-quality learning environment while seamlessly integrating with EF Academy's existing facilities. "This partnership is a powerful example of what can happen when a community works together, supported by proactive leadership at every level," said Dr. Sally Mingarelli, Head of School at EF Academy Pasadena. "With Saint Mark's Village, we are ensuring students not only have a place to learn but also access to the resources and stability they need during this transition." U.S. Representative Judy Chu added, "As someone who visited EF Academy during its earliest days, I've seen firsthand the school's deep commitment to education and community. The swift creation of Saint Mark's Village is a remarkable testament to that spirit. I commend both EF Academy and Saint Mark's for turning challenge into opportunity and ensuring that students continue to learn, grow, and thrive in the face of adversity." EF Academy Pasadena is providing Saint Mark's Village with the land at no cost, underscoring its commitment to educational collaboration and community support. Beyond the dedicated learning space, Saint Mark's students will also have access to EF Academy's state-of-the-art STEM labs, arts spaces, gymnasium, and other campus resourcesensuring they can thrive academically and socially during this transitional period. L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger commended the partnership, adding, "The creation of Saint Mark's Village in such a short time is a shining example of what can be accomplished when a community comes together. Pasadena has shown incredible leadership in ensuring students have a place to learn and grow, and this collaboration between Saint Mark's and EF Academy Pasadena demonstrates the power of education to unite and uplift." Pasadena City Councilmember Rick Cole stated, "The rapid development of Saint Mark's Village represents Pasadena's commitment to step up and do all we can to ensure fire victims are rehoused, kids are back in school, businesses can reopen, and we can rebuild the fabric of our shared Altadena/Pasadena community. Kudos to the City staff and EF Academy for their speed and collaboration to get this done!" Thanks to Governor Gavin Newsom's Executive Order , N-6-25, which cleared the way for rapid rebuilding efforts, the City of Pasadena was able to move quickly to issue permits and allocate resources to allow EF Academy to host Saint Mark's on its high school campus. At the same time, the Village would not have been possible without the City of Pasadena's whole-of-government approach, accelerating permits and assisting with essential infrastructure, enabling dozens of local architects, engineers, and contractors many of whom donated their time - to help Saint Mark's Village go from groundbreaking to ribbon cutting in approximately six weeks. Saint Mark's School is raising funds to provide tuition assistance for displaced families, replace essential classroom materials and technology, support trauma-informed mental health services, and support teachers. Funds will also help cover the costs of operating the school's temporary campus, as it prepares for the long-term rebuild of its permanent campus shared with Saint Mark's Episcopal Church. Community members who wish to support the effort and help bring these pillars of the community back to Altadena can find information about donating on the school's website . About Saint Mark's School Saint Mark's School is an independent school for students in preschool through 6th grade. We are committed to developing the unique intellect and character of each student in a nurturing environment committed to academic excellence and respect for diversity, responsibility, and spiritual growth. Since its founding in 1960, Saint Mark's has upheld a deep-rooted dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ), guided by our Episcopal values. About EF Academy EF Academy is a private day and boarding school committed to preparing high school students to lead successful and happy lives. With students from 30+ countries, our welcoming global community sets students up to thrive in university and beyond. SOURCE EF Academy DUBAI, UAE, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ChannelEngine (https://www.channelengine.com/), a global leader in marketplace integration and operation software, today announced its collaboration with Samsung Electronics MENA to streamline and expand Samsung's presence across leading online marketplaces in the MENA region. ChannelEngine + Samsung Electronics Samsung, a global technology leader, has long been at the forefront of innovation, delivering cutting-edge products and solutions to consumers worldwide. To further strengthen its marketplace presence and optimize integration with leading e-commerce platforms, Samsung selected ChannelEngine as its preferred integration partner. With a local presence in MENA and direct API integrations with Noon and other key regional marketplaces, ChannelEngine is uniquely positioned to support Samsung's digital growth strategy. With ChannelEngine's advanced marketplace technology, Samsung MENA will seamlessly integrate its product catalog into key marketplaces, eliminating inefficiencies caused by manual processes. This integration will allow Samsung to maintain brand control, optimize product listings, and synchronize inventory, pricing, and order management across multiple marketplaces. By automating these processes, Samsung can improve operational efficiency, focus on scaling its marketplace business and increase revenue. Niels Floors, VP of Strategic Development and Regional Lead at ChannelEngine, commented: "Samsung is an industry giant with an ambitious e-commerce strategy, and we are excited to help them take their marketplace operations to the next level. Our local expertise in MENA, combined with our seamless integration capabilities, ensure Samsung can navigate the complexities of marketplace selling while optimizing their presence and revenue across leading platforms. "As a leading technology company, Samsung is committed to delivering exceptional user experiences across all touchpoints, including our marketplace operations," added Sabrina Wurfel, Director of D2C at Samsung Electronics MENA, "By collaborating with ChannelEngine, we can seamlessly integrate with key marketplaces, optimize stock updates, reduce complexities associated with multi-platform management, and ensure a more cohesive eCommerce strategy. This partnership enables us to expand our presence across key markets in MENA, providing our consumers with a seamless and efficient shopping experience. Additionally, it allows us to combine our shared strengths and expertise to drive growth and innovation in the region." By leveraging ChannelEngine's expertise, Samsung Electronics MENA is enhancing its marketplace presence in key markets across the region. Through this integration, Samsung aims to increase its revenue across B2C marketplaces while optimizing operations across multi-country and multi-marketplace environments. About ChannelEngine ChannelEngine connects brands and retailers to over 950 marketplaces worldwide, offering a single platform to manage your product data, inventory, orders, and pricing across all online channels. With smart automation and seamless integration, we enable you to sell more, grow faster, and stay in control. Our scalable and reliable platform keeps your operations running smoothly, ensuring long-term success as your business grows. Headquartered in Leiden, Netherlands, with global offices in New York, Berlin, Paris, and Singapore, we guide leading brands like Unilever, Bugaboo, Petrol Industries, and Sonos on their marketplace expansion. About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, memory, system LSI, foundry, and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com. Media Contact Stephen Meade, [email protected] Ronjini Joshua, [email protected], 949-295-9779 SOURCE ChannelEngine New investments to accelerate SandboxAQ's innovation in quantitative AI and expand its impact across critical industries PALO ALTO, Calif., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SandboxAQ , a global leader in enterprise quantitative AI, announced the addition of Ray Dalio, Horizon Kinetics, BNP Paribas, Google, and NVIDIA to its Series E funding round, which raised over $450 million. The investments underscore the confidence in SandboxAQ's vision and the transformative power of its Large Quantitative Models (LQMs), which are redefining how enterprises leverage AI to tackle complex scientific and quantitative challenges. Since spinning out from Alphabet in 2022, SandboxAQ has raised over $950 million to advance its quantitative AI platforms across biopharma, chemistry, materials science, cybersecurity, and financial services. These new investors join a distinguished group backing SandboxAQ's growth, including Breyer Capital, Eric Schmidt, Alger, Paladin Capital, S32, TIME Ventures, and funds and accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. This expanded support strengthens SandboxAQ's leadership in AI and quantum technologies, driving innovation across multiple industries. "AI and advanced computing are having a powerful impact on financial services, and BNP Paribas Global Markets is proud to be at the forefront of this trend," said Olivier Osty, BNP Paribas Head of Corporate & Institutional Banking Global Markets. "I look forward to working with SandboxAQ to explore innovative solutions at the cross-roads of AI and quantum techniques." "I bet on the SandboxAQ team and its approach to Large Quantitative Models (LQMs) because I'm impressed by them both," said Ray Dalio, Founder, Bridgewater Associates. About SandboxAQ SandboxAQ is a B2B company delivering solutions at the intersection of AI and quantum techniques. The company's Large Quantitative Models (LQMs) deliver critical advances in life sciences, financial services, navigation, and other sectors. The company emerged from Alphabet Inc. as an independent, growth-backed company funded by leading investors and strategic partners including funds and accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., Alger, IQT, US Innovative Technology Fund, S32, Paladin Capital, BNP Paribas, Eric Schmidt, Breyer Capital, Ray Dalio, Marc Benioff, Thomas Tull, Yann LeCun, and others. For more information, visit http://www.sandboxaq.com . SOURCE SandboxAQ For the second year in a row, the inventor of the real estate brokerage-as-a-service platform experienced strong, sustained growth alongside partners and outranked the average Realtor. SAN FRANCISCO, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Side, the only real estate brokerage platform that helps top agents create and grow their own boutique companies, today announced that it has been named a top 10 largest brokerage by volume, while operating in just 18 states. Additionally, Side is recognized as the #1 California-based brokerage, and #1 in the nation for average production per agent compared to the other traditional brokerages. The numbers and achievements of Side's elite community of agents proves that the boutique agency model is better. Agents with Side-backed companies are doing more exceptional deals than all other brokerages in the industry. Side made its impressive top 10 debut last year on the prestigious RealTrends list , and maintained that strong position in 2025. "Year-over-year, top performing agents come to Side to own their own real estate businesses, and each year, this elite community of agents continues to outperform the market," said Guy Gal, Side Co-founder and CEO. "2025 was no different, even with unique market conditions and 'higher for longer' mortgage rates. This community continues to be unlike any other in real estate, and these numbers and accolades reflect their resilience, brilliance, and incredible achievements." Since its launch in 2017, Side has grown to power an unrivaled community of market-leading boutique companies, with exceptional agents that consistently outperform the average REALTOR. About Side Side is the only real estate brokerage platform that exclusively partners with the very best agents, teams and independent brokers to create and grow their own companies without the time, cost or risk of operating a brokerage. Unlike traditional brokerage brands, Side works behind the scenes to provide our partners with time-saving technology and premier support services. This way, they're free to focus on what matters most: serving their clients and communities. SOURCE Side Inc. PARAMUS, N.J., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SK Life Science, Inc., a global leader in developing treatments for central nervous system (CNS) disorders and a subsidiary of SK Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., will present meaningful encore data on XCOPRI (cenobamate tablets) CV, an anti-seizure medication, at the 77th American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting, taking place April 5-9, 2025, in San Diego, California. This presentation reinforces the growing body of clinical and real-world evidence supporting cenobamate's role in reducing seizure activity and optimizing epilepsy management. "Our goal at SK Life Science is to redefine seizure management by advancing research and education that translates into meaningful improvements for people living with epilepsy," said Louis Ferrari, BS, RPh, MBA, vice president, Medical Affairs at SK Life Science, Inc. "Seizure freedom remains an elusive, yet critical, objective for many patients, and this research offers valuable insights into how RNS data can be used as an objective measure to assess the efficacy of XCOPRI, and possibly other add-on anti-seizure medications." At AAN 2025, SK Life Science will highlight the impact of cenobamate on RNS epileptiform events. A retrospective, multicenter, observational, 24-week study among 37 patients with uncontrolled seizures showed a meaningful reduction in epileptiform events and clinically reported seizures during adjunctive cenobamate treatment. Results from this analysis support, through electrocorticographic data and observation of clinical seizures, the effectiveness of cenobamate in the treatment of focal seizures. Additional clinical and real-world data exploring cenobamate's efficacy, safety, and therapeutic potential in diverse patient populations will also be presented. Select SK Life Science posters presented at 2025 AAN include: Title: The Effect of Cenobamate on Responsive Neurostimulation Epileptiform Events (Aboumatar et al) Session: P5: Epilepsy/Clinical Neurophysiology (EEG): Neuromodulation Devices and Seizure Tracking Date/Time: Monday, April 7, from 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. PT Abstract Number: 2991 Title: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Adjunctive Cenobamate in Asian Patients With Focal Seizures, With Optional Open-Label Extension (Misra et al) Session: P8: Epilepsy/Clinical Neurophysiology (EEG): Anti-seizure Medications: Clinical Trials Date/Time: Tuesday, April 8, from 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. PT Abstract Number: 1406 Title: Early Response Rates With Adjunctive Cenobamate in Uncontrolled Focal Seizures: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Study in a Multinational Asian Population (Pradhan et al) Session: P8: Epilepsy/Clinical Neurophysiology (EEG): Anti-seizure Medications: Clinical Trials Date/Time: Tuesday, April 8, from 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. PT Abstract Number: 1404 Title: Efficacy of Adjunctive Cenobamate by Focal Seizure Subtypes: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Study in a Multinational Asian Population (Ferrari et al) Session: P8: Epilepsy/Clinical Neurophysiology (EEG): Anti-seizure Medications: Clinical Trials Date/Time: Tuesday, April 8, from 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. PT Abstract Number: 1408 Title: Clarification of the Mechanism of Action of Cenobamate (Sankar et al) Session: P9: Epilepsy/Clinical Neurophysiology (EEG): Anti-seizure Medications: Mechanisms and Pharmacology Date/Time: Tuesday, April 8, from 11:45 a.m. 12:45 p.m. PT Abstract Number: 1381 Title: Wide Range of Cenobamate Doses Associated With Initial Seizure Freedom in Patients With Uncontrolled Focal Seizures: Post-hoc Analysis of a Phase 3, Multicenter, Open-Label Study (Rosenfeld et al) Session: P12: Epilepsy/Clinical Neurophysiology (EEG): Retrospective Studies, Reviews, and Meta-analyses in Epilepsy Date/Time: Wednesday, April 9, from 11:45 a.m. 12:45 p.m. PT Abstract Number: 158 A complete list of SK Life Science abstracts presented at AAN 2025 can be found here. In addition to these scientific presentations, SK Life Science, Inc. will host a booth (#223) in the Exhibit Hall, open from 11:30 a.m. PT on Sunday, April 6, 2025, until 4 p.m. PT on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. Attendees are encouraged to visit the booth to learn more about SK Life Science's commitment to epilepsy research and patient care. About SK Life Science, Inc. and SK Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. SK Life Science, Inc., with headquarters in Paramus, New Jersey, is a U.S. subsidiary of SK Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., a pioneering South Korean company in drug development and commercialization. Together, they are advancing innovative treatments for central nervous system (CNS) disorders and oncology, with eight compounds currently in development. Utilizing target-based drug discovery, high-throughput organic screening/high content screening, computer-aided drug design, and combinatorial chemistry, the companies drive R&D efforts in biology/discovery, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical development. For more information, visit www.SKLifeScienceInc.com. SK Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. is part of SK Group, South Korea's second-largest conglomerate. SK Group is a collection of global industry-leading companies driving innovations in energy, advanced materials, biopharmaceuticals and digital business. Based in Seoul, SK invests in building sustainable businesses around the world with a shared commitment to reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. SK companies combined have $151 billion in global annual revenue and employ more than 100,000 people worldwide. SK Group is one of TIME's 100 Most Influential Companies of 2023. SK Inc., the parent company of SK Biopharmaceuticals, continues to enhance its portfolio value by executing long-term investments with a number of competitive subsidiaries in various business areas, including pharmaceuticals and life science, energy and chemicals, information and telecommunication, and semiconductors. In addition, SK Inc. is focused on reinforcing its growth foundations through profitable and practical management based on financial stability, while raising its enterprise value by investing in new future growth businesses. For more information about SK Inc., visit https://sk-inc.com/en/main/mainpage.aspx. For more information about SK Biopharmaceuticals, visit www.skbp.com/eng. About XCOPRI (cenobamate tablets) CV Cenobamate is an antiseizure medication (ASM) discovered and developed by SK Biopharmaceuticals and SK Life Science. Cenobamate reduces neuronal excitability through a unique dual mechanism of action, preferentially inhibiting the persistent sodium current and enhancing GABAergic inhibition at the type A -aminobutyric acid (GABA A ) ion channel. The precise mechanism by which cenobamate exerts its therapeutic effect is unknown. Cenobamate is marketed under the brand name XCOPRI in the U.S. by SK Life Science, Inc. Additionally, XCOPRI is commercialized in Canada and Israel by SK Biopharmaceuticals' partners, Paladin Labs Inc. and Dexcel Ltd. Cenobamate is marketed as ONTOZRY by Angelini Pharma S.p.A. in Europe, the UK, and Switzerland. Cenobamate is also being developed for commercialization by SK Biopharmaceuticals' partners in many other countries to meet the needs of patients living with epilepsy, including Dong-A ST Co., Ltd., Eurofarma Laboratorios S.A., Hikma MENA FZE, Ignis Therapeutics, Inc. and ONO Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION AND INDICATION FOR XCOPRI (cenobamate tablets) CV DO NOT TAKE XCOPRI IF YOU: Are allergic to cenobamate or any of the other ingredients in XCOPRI. Have a genetic problem (called Familial Short QT syndrome) that affects the electrical system of the heart. XCOPRI CAN CAUSE SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS, INCLUDING: Allergic reactions: XCOPRI can cause serious skin rash or other serious allergic reactions which may affect organs and other parts of your body like the liver or blood cells. You may or may not have a rash with these types of reactions. Call your healthcare provider right away and go to the nearest emergency room if you have any of the following: swelling of your face, eyes, lips, or tongue, trouble swallowing or breathing, a skin rash, hives, fever, swollen glands, or sore throat that does not go away or comes and goes, painful sores in the mouth or around your eyes, yellowing of your skin or eyes, unusual bruising or bleeding, severe fatigue or weakness, severe muscle pain, frequent infections, or infections that do not go away. Take XCOPRI exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. It is very important to increase your dose of XCOPRI slowly, as instructed by your healthcare provider. QT shortening: XCOPRI may cause problems with the electrical system of the heart (QT shortening). Call your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of QT shortening including fast heartbeat (heart palpitations) that last a long time or fainting. Suicidal behavior and ideation: Antiepileptic drugs, including XCOPRI, may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in a very small number of people, about 1 in 500. Call your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you: thoughts about suicide or dying; attempting to commit suicide; new or worse depression, anxiety, or irritability; feeling agitated or restless; panic attacks; trouble sleeping (insomnia); acting aggressive; being angry or violent; acting on dangerous impulses; an extreme increase in activity and talking (mania); or other unusual changes in behavior or mood. Nervous system problems: XCOPRI may cause problems that affect your nervous system. Symptoms of nervous system problems include: dizziness, trouble walking or with coordination, feeling sleepy and tired, trouble concentrating, remembering, and thinking clearly, and vision problems. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how XCOPRI affects you. Do not drink alcohol or take other medicines that can make you sleepy or dizzy while taking XCOPRI without first talking to your healthcare provider. DISCONTINUATION: Do not stop taking XCOPRI without first talking to your healthcare provider. Stopping XCOPRI suddenly can cause serious problems. Stopping seizure medicine suddenly in a patient who has epilepsy can cause seizures that will not stop (status epilepticus). DRUG INTERACTIONS: XCOPRI may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how XCOPRI works. Do not start or stop other medicines without talking to your healthcare provider. Tell healthcare providers about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: XCOPRI may cause your birth control medicine to be less effective. Talk to your health care provider about the best birth control method to use. Talk to your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if XCOPRI will harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant while taking XCOPRI. You and your healthcare provider will decide if you should take XCOPRI while you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking XCOPRI, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the safety of antiepileptic medicine during pregnancy. You can enroll in this registry by calling 1-888233-2334 or go to www.aedpregnancyregistry.org. Talk to your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if XCOPRI passes into breastmilk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while taking XCOPRI. COMMON SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects in patients taking XCOPRI include dizziness, sleepiness, headache, double vision, and feeling tired. These are not all the possible side effects of XCOPRI. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. DRUG ABUSE: XCOPRI is a federally controlled substance (CV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep XCOPRI in a safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away XCOPRI may harm others and is against the law. INDICATION: XCOPRI is a prescription medicine used to treat partial-onset seizures in adults 18 years of age and older. It is not known if XCOPRI is safe and effective in children under 18 years of age. Please see additional patient information in the Medication Guide. This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your condition or your treatment. Please see full Prescribing Information. About Epilepsy Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder. There are approximately 3.4 million people living with epilepsy in the United States, with 150,000 new cases each year in the country.1,2 Epilepsy is characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. The seizures in epilepsy may be related to a brain injury or a family tendency, but often the cause is completely unknown. Having seizures and epilepsy can affect one's safety, relationships, work, driving, and much more.3,4 People with epilepsy are at risk for accidents and other health complications, including falling, drowning, depression and sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP).3,4 Despite the availability of many antiepileptic therapies, almost 40 percent of people with epilepsy are not able to achieve seizure freedom, meaning they have epilepsy that remains uncontrolled.5 XCOPRI and ONTOZRY are registered trademarks of SK Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. References Cleveland Clinic. Epilepsy. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17636-epilepsy. Accessed April 2025 . Epilepsy Foundation. Facts & Statistics About Epilepsy. https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/about-epilepsy-basics/epilepsy-statistics. Accessed April 2025 . Epilepsy Foundation. Staying Safe. https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/seizure-first-aid-and-safety/staying-safe. Accessed April 2025 . Epilepsy Foundation. Complications and Risks. https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/challenges-epilepsy. Accessed April 2025 . Chen Z, Brodie MJ, Liew D, Kwan P. Treatment outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy treated with established and new antiepileptic drugs: a 30-year longitudinal cohort study. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29279892. Published online December 26 , 2017. SOURCE SK Life Science, Inc. YONKERS, N.Y., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Gaby Daboul, MD is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Lifetime Member for his contributions in Providing Compassionate Care and Healing Hands in Medicine. Dr. Gaby Daboul, a dedicated physician with a heart for healing, stands as a beacon of compassion and expertise in the field of medicine. With a commitment to providing comprehensive care to adults in the hospital setting, Dr. Daboul's approach is rooted in empathy and treating each patient as a cherished member of the family. Gaby Daboul, MD Originally from Homs, Syria, Dr. Daboul embarked on his journey in medicine with a degree from Aleppo University, Faculty of Medicine in Syria. He then completed his internal medicine residency at Wyckoff Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. As a board-certified internal medicine physician, Dr. Daboul brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his practice. He is dedicated to addressing a variety of medical issues, ordering necessary labs and tests, and collaborating closely with surgeons when needed to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients. Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Daboul finds joy and rejuvenation in his hobbies, including meditation, sports, and exercise. These pursuits not only enrich his personal life but also contribute to his holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing the importance of overall well-being. Dr. Daboul's journey in medicine is marked by the unwavering support of his partner and family, particularly two cousins, who have stood by his side throughout his career. Their encouragement and love have been instrumental in his success and dedication to serving others. With a steadfast commitment to providing compassionate care and healing hands, Dr. Gaby Daboul continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of his patients and the community at large. His unwavering dedication to excellence and empathy serves as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of knowing him. Dr. Daboul expresses gratitude to his family, (particularly his two cousins), and his significant other for all of their support in his career. Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected] SOURCE The Inner Circle LEWISTON, Idaho, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jade A Starry is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence for her contributions to Maternal and Newborn Care. Jade A. Starry has built a distinguished career in nursing, specializing in labor and delivery care at Gritman Medical Center, a critical access hospital serving rural communities in Idaho. With a passion for maternal and neonatal health, she provides compassionate, patient-centered care while ensuring the safety and well-being of mothers and newborns. Jade A Starry After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Lewis-Clark State College in 2020, Ms. Starry began her career as a hospital medical-surgical nurse, gaining vital hands-on experience. Recognizing her calling in labor and delivery, she transitioned into the Family Birth Center at Gritman Medical Center, where she now assists in up to one to three deliveries per shift, although it can vary. Her expertise spans labor and delivery, postpartum maternal care, newborn care, patient advocacy, nurse preceptorship, and charge nurse leadership in a high-demand environment. She also has been trained as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. Ms. Starry completed an 18-month Nurse Residency Program at Gritman Medical Center, where she developed advanced skills in patient monitoring, emergency response, and comprehensive care management across multiple hospital units, including same-day surgery and medical-surgical nursing. Her dedication and adaptability in critical access hospital nursing have made her an invaluable asset to the facility and the patients she serves. As a member of the Idaho Nurses Association, Ms. Starry remains committed to continuous learning and professional development. Looking ahead, she aims to enhance her leadership skills as a charge nurse and nurse preceptor, expand her expertise in high-risk maternal and neonatal care, and further contribute to the field of labor and delivery nursing. Ms. Starry attributes her success to hard work, perseverance, and the unwavering support of her family, friends, and colleagues. She remains dedicated to providing exceptional care, ensuring that every mother and newborn receives the highest level of medical attention in a compassionate and supportive environment. Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected] SOURCE The Inner Circle LANCASTER, Texas, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Taryn N. Walker is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence for her contributions to Personal Injury and Criminal Defense. Taryn N. Walker, a dedicated attorney and the founder of The Law Office of Taryn Walker PLLC has spent nearly a decade leading her Dallas-based firm with a focus on personal injury and criminal defense law. Known for her relentless advocacy and attention to detail, Ms. Walker provides strategic legal support for claimants and individuals facing criminal charges, consistently upholding the values of justice, fairness, and integrity. Ms. Walker earned her Bachelor of Science in Management Science with a minor in Business Administration from Tuskegee University in 2007, and later received her Doctor of Jurisprudence from Southern University Law Center in 2011. Her legal foundation, combined with sharp business acumen, allows her to manage complex casework and operate a thriving law practice. Recognized for her professional excellence, Ms. Walker has been honored as one of the Top 10 Under 40 by both the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys and the National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys. Outside the courtroom, she is deeply rooted in civic engagement. Ms. Walker serves as the Parent Teacher Organization secretary, chairs the Planning and Zoning Commission in Lancaster, Texas, and regularly contributes pro-bono legal services to support her local community. Looking ahead, Ms. Walker plans to continue expanding her practice while remaining true to her mission of providing client-centered legal representation. Her commitment to empowering others through the law stands as the foundation of her continued growth and success. Contact: Katherine Green 516-825-5634 [email protected] SOURCE The Inner Circle BANGALORE, India, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Thin Film Lithium Niobate (TFLN) Modulator Market is Segmented by Type (Thin Film Lithium Niobate Phase Modulator, Thin Film Lithium Niobate Intensity Modulator), by Application (Optical Communication, Cable Television, Data Center, Microwave Photon, Fiber Optic Gyroscope, Fiber Optic Sensing, Video Transmission). The Global Market for Thin Film Lithium Niobate (TFLN) Modulator was valued at USD 356 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 3829 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 41.0% during the forecast period. Claim Your Free Report: https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/QYRE-Auto-37Z15132/Global_Thin_Film_Lithium_Niobate_TFLN_Modulator_Market Major Factors Driving the Growth of Thin Film Lithium Niobate (TFLN) Modular Market: The TFLN Modulator Market advances steadily as industries embrace high-performance photonic devices for faster, more energy-efficient communications. Vendors differentiate through specialized solutions, integrating TFLN designs into optical modules, data centers, and wireless infrastructure. Continuous R&D enhances device lifespan and lowers production costs, encouraging new entrants and fueling competition. End users benefit from improved bandwidth, minimized latency, and robust reliability in applications ranging from telecom networks to sensing systems. Strategic collaborations further accelerate product innovation, allowing broader adoption across industrial, consumer, and defense segments. As global data demand escalates, TFLN modulators prove indispensable for scaling capacity and preserving signal quality. Consequently, the market thrives under strong demand and technological evolutions, promising long-term opportunities for both established and emerging players. Unlock Insights: View Full Report Now! https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-37Z15132/global-thin-film-lithium-niobate-tfln-modulator TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE THIN FILM LITHIUM NIOBATE (TFLN) MODULATOR MARKET: Thin Film Lithium Niobate phase modulators stimulate the TFLN Modulator Market by delivering superior modulation efficiency in compact footprints. Their ability to manipulate the phase of optical signals precisely is essential for next-generation communication systems and advanced photonic circuits. These modulators reduce signal degradation and power consumption, aligning with industry demands for sustainability and cost-effectiveness. By integrating easily into high-speed networks, they enable faster data transfers while maintaining signal integrity. Their lightweight, stable nature also suits harsh environmental conditions, making them valuable in aerospace and defense applications. As miniaturization trends accelerate, these phase modulators fit seamlessly into smaller, more complex devices. Together, these qualities make them a vital component, spurring continuous adoption across diverse technology sectors. Thin Film Lithium Niobate intensity modulators amplify the TFLN Modulator Market by offering high extinction ratios and broad bandwidths for advanced signal processing. These devices adjust the amplitude of light signals, allowing refined control in optical communication systems. Their low driving voltage and stable performance meet the demands of emerging data centers and 5G infrastructures. Manufacturers benefit from streamlined integration into existing platforms, reducing overall design complexity. Furthermore, the modulators' inherent electro-optic properties minimize energy loss and enhance thermal stability, promoting reliable operation under varied conditions. By enabling precise intensity control, these solutions support flexible data routing and secure transmissions. They also open opportunities for cutting-edge applications in sensing and imaging, expanding the market's scope and investment potential. Optical communication accelerates the TFLN Modulator Market by demanding high-speed, low-loss signal transmission for global data networks. TFLN modulators play a key role in shaping and routing light pulses with remarkable clarity, boosting throughput and connectivity. As internet usage and cloud computing surge, operators require scalable, energy-efficient solutions, positioning these modulators as strategic assets. Their compact size aligns with the need to condense infrastructure into smaller footprints while maintaining reliability. Additionally, TFLN devices support longer-distance transmission without repeated signal regeneration, reducing equipment costs and complexity. This efficiency becomes increasingly vital for emerging applications, such as quantum communications and edge computing. By enhancing bandwidth and reliability, optical communication spurs innovation, cementing TFLN modulators as integral enablers of future networks. Global networks demand accelerated data rates to support streaming, telemedicine, and remote collaboration. TFLN modulators address this urgency by delivering higher bandwidth and reduced latency. Their efficient electro-optic properties enable faster light modulation, satisfying performance requirements in data centers and 5G networks. Users benefit from swift content delivery and real-time data analytics, driving sustained interest in these solutions. Additionally, growth in cloud services and online platforms perpetuates the need for reliable, ultra-fast communication channels. As businesses compete globally, robust connectivity becomes a strategic imperative, spurring investments in advanced modulator technology. By consistently surpassing older modulation methods, TFLN modulators fulfill critical speed criteria for diverse sectors, firmly placing them at the forefront of high-speed data demand worldwide. Rapid 5G deployments and surging cloud services underscore the crucial function of TFLN modulators. They offer ultra-low loss and high linearity, supporting complex signal formats essential to modern telecommunications. When integrated with 5G base stations, these modulators accommodate dense data requirements while conserving power. Cloud service providers also leverage TFLN technology to maintain seamless data transfers, enabling resource-intensive operations like artificial intelligence and virtual reality. By optimizing bandwidth usage, these devices reduce operational overhead, improving network efficiency. Moreover, TFLN modulators' small footprint fosters easier placement in congested environments where hardware space is scarce. As 5G and cloud computing continue evolving, the capability of these modulators to enhance performance cements their role in future infrastructure expansions. Escalating energy costs and sustainability goals elevate the importance of TFLN modulators, known for their power-saving design. Because lithium niobate exhibits strong electro-optic effects, relatively low voltages achieve substantial modulation depth. This energy-efficient approach benefits operators striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and operational expenses. Data-heavy applications, such as online gaming and media streaming, emphasize the value of minimized power usage without compromising performance. Governments and stakeholders increasingly promote "green" tech solutions, further propelling interest in TFLN platforms. Over time, businesses adopting these modulators enjoy decreased heat generation and simpler thermal management, lowering maintenance demands. By combining high performance with reduced resource consumption, TFLN modulators reinforce modern environmental imperatives and foster market expansion. The broader photonics ecosystem flourishes alongside the TFLN Modulator Market, creating symbiotic growth. Innovators developing lasers, waveguides, and detectors rely on compatible modulators to achieve optimal device performance. As end users seek integrated photonic solutions, TFLN-based components become instrumental in bridging discrete technologies. This collaborative environment encourages standardization, streamlining production and boosting cost competitiveness. Researchers continually refine lithium niobate thin films, pushing boundaries in doping techniques and waveguide engineering. By improving device functionality, these advancements unlock emerging markets, including lidar sensing and microwave photonics. Consequently, expanded photonics applications translate to heightened demand for TFLN modulators. This interlinked ecosystem ensures that innovations in one photonic domain amplify opportunities across the entire chain. Claim Yours Now! https://reports.valuates.com/api/directpaytoken?rcode=QYRE-Auto-37Z15132&lic=single-user LITHIUM NIOBATE (TFLN) MODULATOR MARKET SHARE: North America leads with strong funding for photonics research and widespread telecom infrastructure upgrades, paving the way for rapid adoption. Europe follows closely, emphasizing collaborative R&D projects and stringent performance standards that spur innovation. Key Companies: Thinfilm Srico, Inc. Photonic Systems Advanced Fiber Resources Ori-Chip Eoptolink Technology Linktel Technologies HyperLight Verics Tianjin Liniom Guangzhou Niobao Optoelectronics Tianjin H-Chip Technology Group Purchase Regional Report: https://reports.valuates.com/request/regional/QYRE-Auto-37Z15132/Global_Thin_Film_Lithium_Niobate_TFLN_Modulator_Market SUBSCRIPTION We have introduced a tailor-made subscription for our customers. Please leave a note in the Comment Section to know about our subscription plans. DISCOVER MORE INSIGHTS: EXPLORE SIMILAR REPORTS! - Thin Film Lithium Niobate Optical Modulator Market was valued at USD 446 Million in the year 2023 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 1248 Million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 15.7% during the forecast period. - Lithium Niobate Phase Modulator Market - Lithium Niobate (LN) Modulators Market - Lithium Niobate Market was valued at USD 158 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 184 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 2.2% during the forecast period. - Lithium Niobate Phase Modulator Market - Mg-Doped Lithium Niobate Wafer Market - Lithium Niobate Electro-optical Phase Modulator Market - Magnesium Oxide Doped Lithium Niobate (MgO:LiNbO3) Crystal Market was estimated to be worth USD 42 Million in 2023 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 58 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period 2024-2030. - Lithium Market - Large Size Lithium Niobate Wafer Market - Lithium Niobate on Insulator (LNOI) Modulators Market DISCOVER OUR VISION: VISIT ABOUT US! 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GET A FREE QUOTE Valuates Reports [email protected] For U.S. Toll-Free Call 1-(315)-215-3225 WhatsApp: +91-9945648335 Website: https://reports.valuates.com Blog: https://valuatestrends.blogspot.com/ Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/valuatesreports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/valuatesreports Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valuatesreports/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@valuatesreports6753 https://www.facebook.com/valuateskorean https://www.facebook.com/valuatesspanish https://www.facebook.com/valuatesjapanese https://valuatesreportspanish.blogspot.com/ https://valuateskorean.blogspot.com/ https://valuatesgerman.blogspot.com/ https://valuatesreportjapanese.blogspot.com/ SOURCE Valuates Reports PHOENIX, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Arizona residents can choose three ways to support underserved, disabled, or foster children through Catholic Education Arizona with the Arizona Private Education Tax Credit, Low-Income or Disabled Displaced Corporate Tax Credits, or a traditional donation. Since 1998, Catholic Education Arizona has awarded 157,000 scholarships to underserved students. When I Grow Up, Education, Doctor, Lawyer, Teacher, Tax Credits, Donations, Arizona, Underserved, Disabled, Foster children, K-12 scholarships, schools, Catholic education, Catholic schools, Catholic Education Arizona, dreams, future leaders, scholarships. Nancy Padberg, MBA, President and CEO of Catholic Education Arizona, said, "We are fortunate to have school choice legislation in Arizona. In addition to impacting students' lives academically and spiritually, we are strengthening families and building our future workforce." When taxpayers redirect their Arizona taxes through tax credits, they know exactly what their tax dollars support. Tax credit contributions to Catholic Education Arizona are exclusively used to fund tuition scholarships for K-12 students attending Diocese of Phoenix Catholic schools. Businesses can support quality education for the underserved through the Arizona Low-Income and Disabled/Displaced Corporate Tax Credits. To learn more, visit CEAZ.org. "It's literally that easy, you pay the money either way," remarked Jeff McQueen, President and Co-Founder of Shea Homes Active Lifestyle Communities. "Here [at Catholic Education Arizona], it goes to a cause you're passionate about and know is going to make a tangible difference in the community." Individuals and Corporations continue to support Catholic Education Arizona and the Diocese of Phoenix Catholic Schools because of their impressive results: 99% graduation rate 96% matriculate to higher education, trade school, or enter military service 1000s of hours of community service conducted annually The Changing Lives with Legacy division accepts traditional donations and planned gifts to fund scholarships for underserved, disabled, foster, and K-12 students. You can give a gift of cash, stock and bonds, a bequest, IRA Charitable Rollover, Donor Advised Fund grants, and more. Visit MyImpact.CatholicEducationArizona.org or contact our Directors of Development at [email protected] or call (602) 218-6542 Catholic Education Arizona is the largest provider of scholarships to families attending Catholic schools in the Diocese of Phoenix. Since 1998, $363 million has been raised and 157,000 scholarships have been awarded. Catholic Education Arizona is changing lives one scholarship at a time through tax credits, planned gifts, and donations. Visit CEAZ.org or call (602) 218-6542 to learn more. Or, follow Catholic Education Arizona on Facebook, Instagram , LinkedIn , and X . Contact: Debra Preach, Chief Operating Officer Catholic Education Arizona [email protected] (602)-218-6542 Catholic Education Arizona is an IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization and has never accepted gifts designated for individuals. Per state law, a school tuition organization cannot award, restrict or reserve scholarships solely on the basis of donor recommendation. A taxpayer may not claim a tax credit if the taxpayer agrees to swap donations with another taxpayer to benefit either taxpayer's own dependent. SOURCE Catholic Education Arizona Dr. David Salehani will host an exclusive Study Club on April 30, 2025, at LAVO Restaurant in West Hollywood, featuring Dr. Storm Hagen and a CE-accredited lecture on 3D printing and digital workflows in modern dentistry. The event offers 2 Category I CE credits, dinner, and networking, with limited space available for early registrants. LOS ANGELES, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. David Salehani is proud to invite dental professionals to a special Study Club evening featuring guest speaker Dr. Storm Hagen, one of the nation's leading voices in digital dentistry. The event will take place on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at LAVO Restaurant in West Hollywood and will include a gourmet dinner, networking, and a 2-hour CE-accredited lecture on cutting-edge 3D printing workflows in modern dentistry. David Salehani, D.D.S., M.D. "I'm thrilled to bring our dental community together for this evening of learning and connection. Dr. Hagen's forward-thinking approach to in-office 3D printing is something every modern dentist can benefit from. We look forward to sharing insights that will immediately impact clinical workflows and patient outcomes." Dr. David Salehani Event Details: Date: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Time: 6:00 6:30 PM Dinner & Networking 6:30 8:30 PM Lecture 6:00 Dinner & Networking 6:30 Lecture Location: LAVO Restaurant 9201 W. Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 LAVO Restaurant 9201 W. Sunset Blvd, 90069 CE Credits: 2 Category I CE Credits 2 Category I CE Credits Fee: $60.00 Registration Deadline: Friday, April 25, 2025 Space is limited early registration is strongly encouraged Course Topic: "3D Printing: The Scan-to-Print Digital Workflow" Learning Objectives: Understand the scan-to-print digital workflow for dental 3D printing Explore how digital in-office workflows reduce lab fees and production time Discover design services and material options available for 3D printing Review case studies and clinical success using digital workflows About the Speaker Dr. Storm Hagen Dr. Storm Hagen brings a wealth of expertise in the integration of technology into modern dentistry. A graduate of UCLA and the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry (DDS with High Honors), he is a certified CEREC and Primescan trainer, and a Key Opinion Leader for Dentsply Sirona, SprintRay, Kuraray Noritake, Ivoclar Vivadent, and TruAbutment. Dr. Hagen lectures nationally on digital dentistry and continues to push the envelope with in-office innovations. About the Host Dr. David Salehani Dr. David Salehani is a highly respected Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in West Hollywood known for his clinical excellence and passion for education. He holds a Biochemistry degree with honors, as well as both medical and dental degrees from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. His advanced surgical training at Long Island Jewish Medical Center and Stony Brook University Hospital (a Level I trauma center), combined with a general surgery internship, has shaped his expertise across a wide scope of oral and facial procedures. Dr. Salehani's practice focuses on both functional and aesthetic outcomes, offering procedures ranging from dental implants and facial trauma repair to jaw correction and cosmetic enhancements. He holds hospital privileges at UCLA Medical Center and Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and is a member of the AAOMS, California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and the ADA. To learn more or register, please visit https://www.sunsetoralsurgery.com/study-club-event or call (310) 275-3635. Payment details will be shared during registration. Contact Dr. David Salehani (310) 275-3635 SOURCE Sunset Oral and Facial Surgery Aviation Technicians Demand Fair Contract After Rejecting Insulting Proposal ORLANDO, Fla., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Following an overwhelming 99.5 percent rejection of United Airlines' latest unrealistic proposal, United Airlines Teamsters aviation maintenance technicians (AMTs) rallied outside Orlando International Airport (MCO) after a week of contract negotiations in Orlando. "Teamsters at United Airlines are putting this company on notice: we will accept nothing less than an industry-leading contract that keeps jobs in America," said Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien. "United's greedy executives disrespected our members with an insulting, un-American proposal last month. It's time for this company to stop playing games and put real proposals on the table ones that don't outsource jobs to China but deliver the dignity and respect our members have earned." The Teamsters Union represents over 10,000 United Airlines AMTs across the country. They are demanding a contract with top-tier pay, a faster wage progression for new technicians, and protections from United's growing practice of outsourcing critical maintenance work to China and other countries. "United Airlines is one of the most profitable in the entire industry, yet it refuses to reward the workers responsible for those profits with a fair contract," said Chris Griswold, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division. "We will continue to hold United's feet to the fire until it recognizes the indispensable role United Airlines Teamsters play in the carrier's success and the safety of the flying public." "United's previous offer would have slashed our wages and shipped more of our work to China," said Martin Acosta, a United technician at MCO and member of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. "If United prioritizes safety like it says it does, it wouldn't be trying to outsource critical maintenance work overseas. We aren't just fighting to protect our work we are fighting to protect the American aviation industry. United has the power to do both by agreeing to our demands for a fair contract." Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents over 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters. Contact: Kara Deniz, (202) 497-6610 [email protected] SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters Company to Feature First and Only Ready-to-Use Liquid Vigabatrin at Booth #846 MAPLE GROVE, Minn., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC (Upsher-Smith) today announced its participation at the 2025 American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting, from April 5-9, 2025 in San Diego, California. Representatives from Upsher-Smith will be available at Booth #846 to share information with clinicians about its expanding portfolio of products for rare diseases, including the first and only ready-to-use liquid vigabatrin, VIGAFYDE (vigabatrin) Oral Solution. VIGAFYDE is indicated for infantile spasms (IS) as monotherapy in infants 1 month to 2 years of age for whom the potential benefits outweigh the risk of vision loss. "Since the successful launch of VIGADRONE (vigabatrin) for Oral Solution to the specialty pharmacy channel in 2018, we have broadened our offerings to include VIGADRONE (vigabatrin) Tablets, TORPENZ (everolimus) Tablets, and VIGAFYDE ready-to-use solution," said Jim Maahs, Head of Commercial, Upsher-Smith. "As part of our commitment to supporting the rare disease community, Upsher-Smith is dedicated to not only maintaining, but enhancing the support and resources available to patients, caregivers, and healthcare practitioners. We encourage attendees to stop by our booth during this year's AAN meeting to learn more." About Upsher-Smith's Rare Disease Portfolio Upsher-Smith's rare disease portfolio continues to grow with the addition of high-quality medications that match or exceed the level of service provided by innovator brands. The Company offers three vigabatrin formulations including VIGAFYDE Oral Solution, VIGADRONE Powder for Oral Solution and VIGADRONE Tablets. VIGAFYDE, the only ready-to-use vigabatrin oral solution, is the first new drug application (NDA) approved for infantile spasms in 15 years. As the only premixed, ready-to-use vigabatrin formulation, VIGAFYDE represents a welcome expansion of vigabatrin treatment options, offering patients and caregivers a simpler dose preparation process which may improve dosing accuracy. Upsher-Smith representatives will be available throughout the conference at exhibit booth #846 to engage with clinicians about their products including VIGAFYDE, and VIGADRONE and the Promise of Support Program, which has been providing comprehensive support to patients prescribed VIGADRONE since 2018. Representatives will also be available to discuss Upsher-Smith's TORPENZ Tablets, an oral mTOR inhibitor used to treat certain manifestations of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). TORPENZ, is the only everolimus backed by the Upsher-Smith Promise of Support Program to deliver reliable and consistent support to patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers in the TSC community. TORPENZ is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with renal angiomyolipoma and TSC, not requiring immediate surgery and is also indicated in adult and pediatric patients aged 1 year and older with TSC for the treatment of subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) that requires therapeutic intervention but cannot be curatively resected. About Upsher-Smith's Promise of Support Program Central to Upsher-Smith's commitment to rare disease communities is its Promise of Support Program, ensuring comprehensive assistance for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers throughout the treatment journey. For nearly a decade, the program has offered resources for uninterrupted medication supply, prior authorization support, patient education materials, collaboration with a leading specialty pharmacy partner, and streamlined prescribing and enrollment procedures. It also includes copay assistance for eligible patients to help lessen the financial burden on patients and their families. To learn more about Upsher-Smith, its products, and the Promise of Support Program visit: www.upsher-smith.com. Vigabatrin REMS All vigabatrin products are governed by a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) mandated by the FDA. The Vigabatrin REMS ensures that patients and healthcare providers make informed risk-benefit decisions about its use. Healthcare providers must be enrolled in the Vigabatrin REMS to prescribe these products, and patients must be enrolled to receive them. WHAT IS VIGAFYDE? VIGAFYDE (vigabatrin) Oral Solution is a prescription medicine used to treat: Infantile Spasms (IS) in babies 1 month to 2 years of age, if you and your baby's healthcare provider decide the possible benefits of taking VIGAFYDE are more important than the possible risk of vision loss. WHAT IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT VIGAFYDE (vigabatrin)? WARNING: PERMANENT VISION LOSS See Medication Guide and full Prescribing Information for complete information. All caregivers of babies who take VIGAFYDE: Your baby is at risk for permanent vision loss with any amount of VIGAFYDE. Your baby's risk of vision loss may be higher the more VIGAFYDE is taken daily and the longer it is taken. It is not possible for your baby's healthcare provider to know when vision loss will happen. It could happen soon after starting VIGAFYDE or any time during treatment. It may even happen after treatment has stopped. Because VIGAFYDE might cause permanent vision loss, it is available to healthcare providers and patients only under a special program called the Vigabatrin Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Program. Your baby's healthcare provider will explain the details of this Program to you. VIGAFYDE can damage the vision of anyone who takes it. Some people can have severe loss, particularly to their ability to see to the side when looking straight ahead (peripheral vision). With severe vision loss , your baby may only be able to see things straight in front of them (sometimes called "tunnel vision"). Your baby may also have blurry vision. If this happens, it will not get better. Some people can have severe loss, particularly to their ability to see to the side when looking straight ahead (peripheral vision). With , your baby may only be able to see things straight in front of them (sometimes called "tunnel vision"). Your baby may also have If this happens, it will not get better. Tell your healthcare provider right away if your baby might not be seeing as well as before starting VIGAFYDE or is acting differently than normal. These changes can mean that vision damage has occurred. might not be seeing as well as before starting VIGAFYDE or is acting differently than normal. Regular vision testing is recommended. It is recommended that your healthcare provider test your baby's vision before or within 4 weeks after starting VIGAFYDE, and at least every 3 months during treatment until VIGAFYDE is stopped. It is also recommended that vision be tested about 3 to 6 months after VIGAFYDE is stopped. It is difficult to test vision in babies, but to the extent possible, all patients should have their vision tested. Your baby's healthcare provider will determine if testing can be done. Regular vision testing is important because damage can happen before any changes are noticed. It is recommended that your healthcare provider test your baby's vision before or within 4 weeks after starting VIGAFYDE, and at least every 3 months during treatment until VIGAFYDE is stopped. It is also recommended that vision be tested about 3 to 6 months after VIGAFYDE is stopped. It is difficult to test vision in babies, but to the extent possible, all patients should have their vision tested. Your baby's healthcare provider will determine if testing can be done. Vision tests cannot prevent the vision damage that can happen with VIGAFYDE, but they do allow VIGAFYDE to be stopped if vision has gotten worse, which usually will lessen further damage. Even these regular vision tests may not show vision damage before it is serious and permanent. Parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers may not recognize the symptoms, or find vision loss in babies, until it is severe. that can happen with VIGAFYDE, but they do allow VIGAFYDE to be stopped if vision has gotten worse, which usually will lessen further damage. Even these regular vision tests may not show vision damage before it is serious and permanent. If you do not have these vision tests regularly, your baby's healthcare provider may stop prescribing VIGAFYDE. Your baby may not be able to complete vision testing. If vision testing cannot be done, the healthcare provider may continue prescribing VIGAFYDE but will not be able to watch for any vision loss. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes in patients with infantile spasms (IS). Brain pictures taken by MRI show changes in some patients after they are given VIGAFYDE. It is not known if these changes are harmful. Brain pictures taken by MRI show changes in some patients after they are given VIGAFYDE. It is not known if these changes are harmful. A type of swelling in the brain called intramyelinic edema (IME) has been seen in postmortem examination of infants treated with vigabatrin. in postmortem examination of infants treated with vigabatrin. Risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. VIGAFYDE is approved for use in patients 1 month to 2 years of age [see WHAT IS VIGAFYDE?] . VIGAFYDE is not approved for use in adolescents or adults. Like other antiepileptic drugs, vigabatrin may cause suicidal thoughts and actions in some adolescents and adults (about 1 in 500 people). A healthcare provider should be called right away if a patient taking vigabatrin experiences any symptoms, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings, and especially if they are new, worse, or worrying. VIGAFYDE is approved for use in patients 1 month to 2 years of age . VIGAFYDE is not approved for use in adolescents or adults. Like other antiepileptic drugs, vigabatrin may cause suicidal thoughts and actions in some adolescents and adults (about 1 in 500 people). A healthcare provider should be called right away if a patient taking vigabatrin experiences any symptoms, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings, and especially if they are new, worse, or worrying. Do not stop VIGAFYDE without first talking to a healthcare provider. Stopping VIGAFYDE suddenly can cause seizures that will not stop. VIGAFYDE is more concentrated than vigabatrin solutions prepared from powder. The volume of VIGAFYDE solution prescribed by your baby's healthcare provider may be less than the volume prescribed for other vigabatrin solutions prepared from powder. Always double check the volume (mL) that you are to give your baby when you get a new prescription filled. VIGAFYDE can cause serious side effects such as low red blood cell counts (anemia), sleepiness and tiredness, and weight gain. VIGAFYDE may make certain types of seizures worse. Tell your healthcare provider right away if seizures get worse. Before starting VIGAFYDE, tell your baby's doctor about all of their medical conditions including any allergic reaction to vigabatrin, vision problems, kidney problems, or low red blood cell counts (anemia). Tell your doctor about all the medicines you baby is receiving. The most common side effects of VIGAFYDE in babies include: sleepiness (sleepy babies may have a harder time suckling and feeding or may be irritable), swelling in the bronchial tubes (bronchitis), ear infection and irritability. Tell your healthcare provider if your baby has any side effect that bothers them or that does not go away. This is the most important information to know about VIGAFYDE, but not all of the safety information. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist, or please see the VIGAFYDE Medication Guide, full Prescribing Information including Boxed Warning for risk of permanent vision loss, and Instructions for Use. You can also visit VIGAFYDE.com, upsher-smith.com or call 1-888-650-3789. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch , or call 1-800-332-1088. WHAT IS VIGADRONE? VIGADRONE (vigabatrin) is a prescription medicine used to treat: Infantile Spasms (IS) in patients 1 month to 2 years of age, if you and your healthcare provider decide the possible benefits of taking VIGADRONE are more important than the possible risk of vision loss. in patients 1 month to 2 years of age, if you and your healthcare provider decide the possible benefits of taking VIGADRONE are more important than the possible risk of vision loss. Refractory Complex Partial Seizures (CPS) in adults and children 2 years and older with refractory complex partial seizures (CPS) along with other treatments if: The CPS do not respond well enough to several other treatments, and You and your healthcare provider decide the possible benefit of taking VIGADRONE is more important than the risk of vision loss. in adults and children 2 years and older with refractory complex partial seizures (CPS) along with other treatments if: VIGADRONE should not be the first medicine used to treat CPS. WHAT IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT VIGADRONE (vigabatrin)? WARNING: PERMANENT VISION LOSS See Medication Guide and full Prescribing Information for complete information. All people who take VIGADRONE: You are at risk for permanent vision loss with any amount of VIGADRONE. Your risk of vision loss may be higher the more VIGADRONE you take daily and the longer you take it. It is not possible for your healthcare provider to know when vision loss will happen. It could happen soon after starting VIGADRONE or any time during treatment. It may even happen after treatment has stopped. Because VIGADRONE might cause permanent vision loss, it is available to healthcare providers and patients only under a special program called the Vigabatrin Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Program. Your healthcare provider will explain the details of this Program to you. VIGADRONE can damage the vision of anyone who takes it. Some people can have severe loss, particularly to their ability to see to the side when looking straight ahead (peripheral vision). With severe vision loss , you may only be able to see things straight in front of you (sometimes called "tunnel vision"). You may also have blurry vision. If this happens, it will not get better. Some people can have severe loss, particularly to their ability to see to the side when looking straight ahead (peripheral vision). With , you may only be able to see things straight in front of you (sometimes called "tunnel vision"). You may also have If this happens, it will not get better. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you (or your child): might not be seeing as well as before starting VIGADRONE; start to trip, bump into things, or are more clumsy than usual; are surprised by people or things coming in front of you that seem to come out of nowhere; or if your baby is acting differently than normal. These changes can mean that vision damage has occurred. might not be seeing as well as before starting VIGADRONE; start to trip, bump into things, or are more clumsy than usual; are surprised by people or things coming in front of you that seem to come out of nowhere; or if your baby is acting differently than normal. Regular vision testing is recommended. It is recommended that your healthcare provider test your (or your child's) vision before or within 4 weeks after starting VIGADRONE, and at least every 3 months during treatment until VIGADRONE is stopped. It is also recommended that vision be tested about 3 to 6 months after VIGADRONE is stopped. It is difficult to test vision in babies, but to the extent possible, all patients should have their vision tested. Your healthcare provider will determine if testing can be done. Regular vision testing is important because damage can happen before any changes are noticed. It is recommended that your healthcare provider test your (or your child's) vision before or within 4 weeks after starting VIGADRONE, and at least every 3 months during treatment until VIGADRONE is stopped. It is also recommended that vision be tested about 3 to 6 months after VIGADRONE is stopped. It is difficult to test vision in babies, but to the extent possible, all patients should have their vision tested. Your healthcare provider will determine if testing can be done. Vision tests cannot prevent the vision damage that can happen with VIGADRONE, but they do allow VIGADRONE to be stopped if vision has gotten worse, which usually will lessen further damage. Even these regular vision tests may not show vision damage before it is serious and permanent. Parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers may not recognize the symptoms, or find vision loss in patients, until it is severe. that can happen with VIGADRONE, but they do allow VIGADRONE to be stopped if vision has gotten worse, which usually will lessen further damage. Even these regular vision tests may not show vision damage before it is serious and permanent. If you do not have these vision tests regularly, your healthcare provider may stop prescribing VIGADRONE for you (or your child). Some people are not able to complete vision testing. If vision testing cannot be done, your healthcare provider may continue prescribing VIGADRONE, but will not be able to watch for any vision loss. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes in patients with infantile spasms (IS). Brain pictures taken by MRI show changes in some patients after they are given VIGADRONE. It is not known if these changes are harmful. Brain pictures taken by MRI show changes in some patients after they are given VIGADRONE. It is not known if these changes are harmful. A type of swelling in the brain called intramyelinic edema (IME) has been seen in autopsy examination of patients treated with vigabatrin. in autopsy examination of patients treated with vigabatrin. Risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. Like other antiepileptic drugs, VIGADRONE may cause suicidal thoughts and actions in some people (about 1 in 500 people). Call a healthcare provider right away if you (or your child) have any symptoms, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts or feelings, and especially if they are new, worse, or worry you. Like other antiepileptic drugs, VIGADRONE may cause suicidal thoughts and actions in some people (about 1 in 500 people). Call a healthcare provider right away if you (or your child) have any symptoms, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts or feelings, and especially if they are new, worse, or worry you. Do not stop VIGADRONE without first talking to a healthcare provider. Stopping VIGADRONE suddenly can cause seizures that will not stop. VIGADRONE can cause serious side effects such as low red blood cell counts (anemia), sleepiness and tiredness, nerve problems, weight gain, and swelling. Because VIGADRONE causes sleepiness and tiredness, do not drive, operate machinery, or perform any hazardous task, unless it is decided that these things can be done safely. VIGADRONE may make certain types of seizures worse. Tell your healthcare provider right away if seizures get worse. Before starting VIGADRONE, tell your doctor about all of your (or your child's) medical conditions including depression, mood problems, suicidal thoughts or behavior, any allergic reaction to VIGADRONE, vision problems, kidney problems, low red blood cell counts (anemia), and any nervous or mental illnesses. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you (or your child) take. If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, VIGADRONE can pass into breast milk and may harm your baby. Breastfeeding is not recommended. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, VIGADRONE can cause harm to your unborn baby. You and your healthcare provider will have to decide if you should take VIGADRONE while you are pregnant. The most common side effects of VIGADRONE in adults include: blurred vision, sleepiness, dizziness, problems walking or feeling uncoordinated, shaking (tremor) and tiredness. The most common side effect of VIGADRONE in children 3 to 16 years of age is weight gain. Also expect side effects like those seen in adults. The most common side effects of VIGADRONE in babies include: sleepiness (sleepy babies may have a harder time suckling and feeding or may be irritable), swelling in the bronchial tubes (bronchitis), ear infection and irritability. Tell your healthcare provider if you or your child have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. This is the most important information to know about VIGADRONE, but it is not all the safety information. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist, or please see the VIGADRONE Medication Guide, full Prescribing Information including Boxed Warning for risk of permanent vision loss, and Instructions for Use. You can also visit VIGADRONE.com, upsher-smith.com or call 1-888-650-3789. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch , or call 1-800-332-1088. WHAT ARE TORPENZ (everolimus) TABLETS? TORPENZ is a prescription medicine used to treat the following types of benign (non-cancerous) tumors that are seen with a genetic condition called tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC): Brain tumors called subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA), when the tumor cannot be removed completely by surgery, in adults and children 1 year and older. Kidney tumors called angiomyolipoma, when the tumor does not require surgery right away, in adults. For additional information, including safety information, for non-TSC indications, see the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information. WHAT IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT TORPENZ (everolimus) TABLETS in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex? Do not take TORPENZ if you have had an allergic reaction to everolimus. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking TORPENZ if you are allergic to sirolimus or temsirolimus. Ask your provider if you do not know. TORPENZ can cause serious side effects, including: Lung or breathing problems. In some people, these may be severe and can be life threatening. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, difficulty breathing or wheezing. In some people, these may be severe and can be life threatening. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, difficulty breathing or wheezing. Higher likelihood of infection such as pneumonia, or a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. Viral infections may include active hepatitis B in people who have had hepatitis B in the past (reactivation). In some adults and children, these infections may be severe and can be life threatening. You may need to be treated as soon as possible. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have a temperature of 100.5F or above, chills, or do not feel well. Symptoms of infection may include: o Fever o Chills o Skin rash o Joint pain and swelling o Tiredness o Loss of appetite o Nausea o Pale stools or dark urine o Yellowing of the skin o Pain in the upper right side of the stomach Severe allergic reactions. Get medical help right away if you have signs of an allergic reaction, including rash, itching, hives, flushing, trouble breathing or swallowing, chest pain or dizziness. Get medical help right away if you have signs of an allergic reaction, including rash, itching, hives, flushing, trouble breathing or swallowing, chest pain or dizziness. Possible increased risk for a type of allergic reaction called angioedema in people who take an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor with TORPENZ. Talk with your healthcare provider before taking TORPENZ if you are not sure if you take an ACE inhibitor. Get medical help right away if you have trouble breathing or develop swelling of your tongue, mouth, or throat during treatment with TORPENZ. in people who take an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor with TORPENZ. Talk with your healthcare provider before taking TORPENZ if you are not sure if you take an ACE inhibitor. Get medical help right away if you have trouble breathing or develop swelling of your tongue, mouth, or throat during treatment with TORPENZ. Mouth ulcers and sores. Mouth ulcers and sores are common during treatment with TORPENZ but can also be severe. When you start TORPENZ, your healthcare provider may tell you to also start a prescription mouthwash to reduce the likelihood of getting mouth ulcers or sores and to reduce their severity. Follow your provider's instructions on how to use this mouthwash. If you develop pain, discomfort, or open sores in your mouth, tell your provider. Mouth ulcers and sores are common during treatment with TORPENZ but can also be severe. When you start TORPENZ, your healthcare provider may tell you to also start a prescription mouthwash to reduce the likelihood of getting mouth ulcers or sores and to reduce their severity. Follow your provider's instructions on how to use this mouthwash. If you develop pain, discomfort, or open sores in your mouth, tell your provider. Kidney failure . In some people, this may be severe and can be life threatening. Your healthcare provider should check your kidney function before and during treatment. . In some people, this may be severe and can be life threatening. Your healthcare provider should check your kidney function before and during treatment. Wound healing problems . Wounds may not heal properly during TORPENZ treatment. Tell your healthcare provider if you plan to have any surgery before starting or during treatment. You should stop TORPENZ at least 1 week before planned surgery. Your provider should tell you when to start taking TORPENZ again after surgery. . Wounds may not heal properly during TORPENZ treatment. Tell your healthcare provider if you plan to have any surgery before starting or during treatment. You should stop TORPENZ at least 1 week before planned surgery. Your provider should tell you when to start taking TORPENZ again after surgery. Increased blood sugar and fat (cholesterol and triglyceride) levels in the blood. Your healthcare provider should check your fasting blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in the blood before you start and during treatment. Your healthcare provider should check your fasting blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in the blood before you start and during treatment. Decreased blood cell counts. TORPENZ can cause you to have decreased red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Your healthcare provider should check your blood cell counts before you start and during treatment. TORPENZ can cause you to have decreased red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Your healthcare provider should check your blood cell counts before you start and during treatment. Worsening side effects from radiation treatment that can sometimes be severe. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had or are planning to receive radiation therapy. Before taking TORPENZ, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: Have or have had kidney or liver problems, have diabetes or high blood sugar, have high blood cholesterol, have any infections, or previously had hepatitis B. Are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a "live vaccine" or be around people who have recently received a "live vaccine" during your treatment with TORPENZ. If you are not sure about the type of immunization or vaccine, ask your provider. For children, work with your provider to complete the recommended childhood series of vaccines before your child starts TORPENZ. Are pregnant, can become pregnant, or have a partner who can become pregnant. TORPENZ can cause harm to your unborn baby. For females who are able to become pregnant, your provider will give you a pregnancy test before you start TORPENZ. Use effective birth control during treatment and for 8 weeks after your last dose of TORPENZ. Males with a female partner should use effective birth control during treatment and for 4 weeks after your last dose of TORPENZ. your provider will give you a pregnancy test before you start TORPENZ. Use effective birth control during treatment and for 8 weeks after your last dose of TORPENZ. with a female partner should use effective birth control during treatment and for 4 weeks after your last dose of TORPENZ. Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 2 weeks after your last dose of TORPENZ. Are planning to have or have had a recent surgery. You should stop taking TORPENZ at least 1 week before planned surgery. Have received or are planning to receive radiation therapy. Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Taking TORPENZ with some medicines can cause serious side effects. Keep a list of medications you take, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Especially tell your provider if you take: St. John's Wort ( Hypericum perforatum ) ) Medicine for fungal or bacterial infections, tuberculosis, seizures, HIV-AIDS, heart conditions or high blood pressure, including ACE inhibitors Medicines that weaken your immune system (your body's ability to fight infections and other problems) Ask your provider or pharmacist if you are not sure if your medicine is one of those taken for the conditions listed above. If you are taking any medicines for the conditions listed above, your provider might need to prescribe a different medicine or your dose of TORPENZ may need to be changed. Tell your provider before you start any new medicine. You should not drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit during your treatment with TORPENZ. It may make the amount of TORPENZ in your blood increase to a harmful level. The most common side effect of TORPENZ in people who have SEGA or renal angiomyolipoma include respiratory tract infection. Other side effects that may occur with TORPENZ: Absence of menstrual periods (menstruation). Tell your healthcare provider if this happens. TORPENZ may affect fertility and may affect your ability to become pregnant if you are female or your ability to father a child if you are male. Talk to your provider if this is a concern. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of TORPENZ. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can also visit TORPENZ.com, upsher-smith.com or call 1-888-650-3789. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-332-1088. About Upsher-Smith Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC, now a member of Bora Group, is a trusted U.S. pharmaceutical company that strives to improve the health and lives of patients through an unwavering commitment to high-quality products and sustainable growth. We bring generics and brands to a wide array of customers, always backed by our attentive level of service, strong industry relationships, and dedication to uninterrupted supply. For more information, visit www.upsher-smith.com. About Bora Founded in 2007, Bora Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. ("Bora" or "the Company", 6472.TW) now is the largest pharmaceutical manufacturer in Taiwan with well-connected global distribution to supply more than 100 countries around the world. Bora is dedicated to becoming a global leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing by offering its clients the best quality, efficiency and reliability. For more information, visit www.bora-corp.com. VIGADRONE, TORPENZ and Promise of Support are trademarks of Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC. VIGAFYDE is a trademark of Pyros Pharmaceuticals, Inc. SOURCE Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC WASHINGTON, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Department of Commerce today announced the preliminary determination of an anti-subsidy rate of 14.38% in the sixth annual review of unfairly traded Canadian softwood lumber imports into the United States. The Commerce Department has determined a combined preliminary anti-subsidy and anti-dumping duty rate of 34.45% for Canadian lumber imported in calendar year 2023. Components of the Price of a New Home, 2024 (PRNewsfoto/The U.S. Lumber Coalition) "Unfair trade by Canada to the tune of 34.45% in the U.S. softwood lumber market substantiates yet again the everyday egregious harm to the U.S. industry by Canada's abusive dumping and subsidies practices. These unfair trade practices are designed by Canada to maintain an artificially inflated U.S. market share for Canadian products and force U.S. companies to curtail production, thereby killing U.S. jobs," stated Andrew Miller, Owner/Chair of Stimson Lumber Company and Chairman of the U.S. Lumber Coalition. "Massive predatory unfair practices, whether committed by Canada or China, causes serious harm to U.S. industries and workers, and Canada's unfair trade practices in the softwood lumber industry are no different," said Miller. "The U.S. Lumber Coalition applauds the Trump Administration's strong enforcement of the U.S. trade laws," added Miller. "Continued commitment to enforce the U.S. trade laws against subsidized and unfairly traded Canadian lumber imports is exactly what must happen to strengthen domestic supply lines by removing unfairly traded imports that are killing American jobs." "The American lumber industry and forestry sector today has the capacity to supply nearly all U.S. lumber demand, and with continued strong trade law enforcement and additional tariff measures being contemplated by President Trump, the U.S. industry can, over time, supply 100 percent of the softwood lumber need of the United States. That means more Made in the U.S.A. softwood lumber is being produced by U.S. companies and workers to supply our domestic housing needs," stated Zoltan van Heyningen, Executive Director of the U.S. Lumber Coalition. "The National Lumber Building Materials Dealers Association (NLBMDA) and the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) are fighting alongside Canada to push for unfettered access to the U.S. market for unfairly traded Canadian lumber imports on the basis that it would provide access to more 'affordable' softwood lumber. Sadly, the simple fact is that this 'affordable' softwood lumber is sharply below market rates, is massively dumped and subsidized, is costing real American families their jobs, and is counter to the President's goal of further solidifying the U.S. softwood lumber supply chain," added van Heyningen. "So-called 'cheaper' Canadian lumber is simply Canada dumping their massive excess lumber capacity into the U.S. market with detrimental effects on our industry." U.S. lumber community voices on competing with dumped and subsidized softwood lumber imports: https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/1072586448 Enforcing the U.S. trade laws helps increase the U.S. supply of lumber to build American homes, all without impacting the cost of a new home. Data provided by the NAHB and Fastmarkets Random Lengths confirm that cost of lumber is a very small component of the price of a new home. Lumber, including delivery and distributor's markup, makes up only 1.7% of the price of a new home. Duties on Canadian Lumber make up 0.04% of the price of a new home. It simply is not credible to state that lumber cost drives housing affordability. About the U.S. Lumber Coalition The U.S. Lumber Coalition is an alliance of large and small softwood lumber producers from around the country, joined by their employees and woodland owners, working to address Canada's unfair lumber trade practices. Our goal is to serve as the voice of the American lumber community and effectively address Canada's unfair softwood lumber trade practices. The Coalition supports the full enforcement of the U.S. trade laws to allow the U.S. industry to invest and grow to its natural size without being impaired by unfairly traded imports. Continued full enforcement of the U.S. trade laws will strengthen domestic supply lines by maximizing long-term domestic production and lumber availability produced by U.S. workers to build U.S. homes. For more information, please visit the Coalition's website at www.uslumbercoalition.org. CONTACT: Zoltan van Heyningen [email protected] | 202-805-9133 SOURCE The U.S. Lumber Coalition Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses Exceeding $75,000 In Venture To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options If you purchased or otherwise acquired stock of Venture pursuant and/or traceable to Venture's registration statement for the initial public offering held on or about January 24, 2025 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310). [You may also click here for additional information] NEW YORK, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Venture Global, Inc. ("Venture" or the "Company") (NYSE: VG) and reminds investors of the April 18, 2025 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company. Faruqi & Faruqi Logo (PRNewsfoto/Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP) Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com. Venture is currently facing legal challenges from existing large clients, such as BP and Shell, due to delays in supply contracts as Venture commissions its projects. Given the fact that defendants ability to deliver liquefied natural gas (LNG) to the world and to continue development of Venture's five natural gas liquefication and export projects depends on customer contracts, defendants' failure to account for and address these issues caused statements in Venture's registration statement to be false and/or materially misleading at the time of the initial public offering. Venture completed its initial public offering on January 27, 2025, selling 70 million shares at $24.00 per share. On February 5, 2025, TotalEnergies, an energy company that was a target customer of Venture, rejected opportunities to become a long-term customer of Venture, citing lack of trust. In particular, Patrick Pouyanne, TotalEnergies CEO, stated that he was approached by Venture to see if the company would be interested in a long-term supply contract for liquefied natural gas from the Calcasieu Pass terminal in Louisiana, but he rejected the offer because of what they are doing. In response to the news, Venture's stock price declined from $19.68 per share on February 5, 2025 to $17.48 per share on February 6, 2025. The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not. Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Venture's conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others. To learn more about the Venture Global, Inc. class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/VG or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310). Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook. Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner. SOURCE Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP NYSE: VZLA TSX: VZLA VANCOUVER, BC, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Vizsla Silver Corp. (TSX: VZLA) (NYSE: VZLA) (Frankfurt: 0G3) ("Vizsla" or the "Company") announces that, out of an abundance of caution, it has temporarily paused field work at the Panuco project due to current security conditions in the area. Contractors who are engaged in the development of the test mine, the geotechnical drilling campaign and the exploration program have been placed on standby and remain ready to restart as soon as security conditions permit. This voluntary pause does not interfere with the ongoing engineering work associated with the feasibility study in progress and is not expected to materially affect the Company's budget or work program planned for 2025. SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS This news release includes certain "ForwardLooking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forwardlooking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "would", "could", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forwardlooking statements or information. These forwardlooking statements or information relate to, among other things: the impact on the work pause on the Company's budget and work program planned for 2025. Forwardlooking statements and forwardlooking information relating to any future mineral production, liquidity, enhanced value and capital markets profile of Vizsla, future growth potential for Vizsla and its business, and future exploration plans are based on management's reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of silver, gold, and other metals; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; Vizsla's ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms. These statements reflect Vizsla's respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forwardlooking statements or forward-looking information and Vizsla has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the Company's dependence on one mineral project; precious metals price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Company's mining activities in Mexico; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company's management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Company's inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company's interactions with surrounding communities and artisanal miners; the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; and the factors identified under the caption "Risk Factors" in Vizsla's management discussion and analysis. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forwardlooking statements or forward-looking information. Although Vizsla has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. Vizsla does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forwardlooking statements or forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law. SOURCE Vizsla Silver Corp. SAN JOSE, Calif., April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rolando Bonilla, Chief Strategy Officer at Voler Strategic Advisors, was honored at the Silicon Valley Business Journal's annual Latino Business Leadership Award. He was one of 11 individuals and three companies recognized for their outstanding impact on business and community in Silicon Valley. Reflecting on the honor, Rolando shared: "I am deeply humbled to receive this award and stand alongside so many inspiring leaders who are shaping the future of Silicon Valley. This recognition is not just about me, it's about the communities we serve and the power of working together to create meaningful change." "We are thrilled for Rolando. He is a true leader in his field who not only excels at the highest level but also gives back to the community," said Perla Rodriguez, CEO of Voler Strategic Advisors. "His exceptional leadership and commitment to his community inspire those around him." Bonilla's nomination highlights his dedication to social responsibility, philanthropy, community service, and entrepreneurship. Beginning his career in San Francisco politics, he held key roles such as Chair of the Finance Committee for the San Francisco Juvenile Probation Commission. Transitioning to Silicon Valley, he served as Communications Director for a San Jose Councilmember and later founded a public relations firm specializing in crisis communications and political strategy. Bonilla also chaired the San Jose Planning Commission, where he spearheaded significant land-use initiatives and expanded the commission's inclusivity. A dedicated mentor and nonprofit board member, Bonilla is a COVID-19 survivor who established the East San Jose COVID Relief Fund to support local businesses. Currently, Rolando chairs the San Jose Evergreen Community College District Foundation Board and serves on the Happy Hollow Foundation Board. He holds a BA in Politics from the University of San Francisco and a JD from San Francisco Law School. For more about Voler Strategic Advisors, visit volersa.com. For more about the Silicon Valley Business Journal, visit bizjournals.com/sanjose. SOURCE Voler Strategic Advisors ZHENGZHOU, China, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 31, 2025, the Ancestor Worship Ceremony of the Yellow Emperor in the Year of Yisi was held in Xinzheng, Zhengzhou City, Henan Province. The Chinese from the globe gathered at the Yellow Emperor's hometown to pray for national rejuvenation and share common hopes of world peace. The grand ceremony was themed "Same Root, Same Ancestor, Same Origin", paying homage to the Ancestor of Chinese Civilization. Scene of the Ancestor Worship Ceremony (Photo by He Ning) "The Yellow Emperor marks the beginning of Chinese civilization. A series of archaeological discoveries have confirmed that the Yellow Emperor's era was spanning from the origin to the initial formation of civilization," explained Wang Wei, former chairman of the Chinese Archaeological Society and director of the Henan Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology. Chen Linchun, chief director of the Ancestor Worship Ceremony, stated that the ceremony contains the codes of Henan civilization: Zheng-Han Ancient City was the capital of the Zheng and Han states during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods. The costume designs for this year's ceremony were inspired by styles from the Western Zhou, Spring and Autumn, and Warring States periods; while the ceremonial music and dance performances were choreographed based on stone carvings, murals, and reliefs unearthed at Henan archaeological sites. "While there were innovations, they were all based on historical and cultural evidence," he explained. The Ancestor Worship Ceremony serves as a spiritual bond that unites the Chinese nation. Wen Shanan, Secretary-General of the China-Thailand Cultural Exchange Association and President of the Wen Clan Association of Thailand, said, "As overseas Chinese, we have been promoting people-to-people exchange between the two countries, and we have kept in mind that Henan is our ancestral root." Dato' Seri Ang Lai Hee, a fourth-generation Malaysian Chinese, attended the Ancestor Worship Ceremony. He has long been committed to protecting the heritage of Yellow Emperor culture in Malaysia. Jason Dane Castleton, an American friend, was deeply moved when he saw the ceremony. He exclaimed, "Such Chinese culture is really amazing." Recently, parallel worship ceremonies have been held in Sydney, San Francisco, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and other global cities. As global Chinese communities paid homage to their common ancestor, they not only reconnected with the roots of Chinese civilization but also built bridges for cross-civilization dialogue. During the event, Zhengzhou Radio and Television Station collaborated with nearly fifty Chinese-language media outlets worldwide to broadcast the Ancestor Worship Ceremony, sharing this significant moment with a global audience. SOURCE the Ancestor Worship Ceremony of the Yellow Emperor In light of recent controversies confronting the University of Virginia Health System, the leadership of the University of Virginia Physicians Group wishes to make public its support for the Board of Visitors investigative efforts to discern the truth underlying the vote-of-no-confidence letter submitted in September. Reporting of that discovery process, which culminated in a BOV-commissioned investigation by a highly respected law firm, was closed to non-BOV constituents including UPG. This weeks reporting in The Daily Progress notes that former rectors and other letter writers acknowledge that they were not privy to the findings of this report. Further, it is acknowledged that this reporting was not informed by communication with UPG to confirm basic assertions made regarding this organizations service role or to refute misconceptions. Consistent with its charter, the leadership of UPG intends to chart a collaborative course forward one which involves trust, mutual respect, shared accountability and, ultimately, healing for all. We stand with the UVa School of Medicine faculty and support interim Executive Vice President for Health Affairs Dr. Mitch Rosner, as we work toward a stronger health system built on these shared values and priorities. We fear that recent publicized speculation with regard to the motivations of the 128 School of Medicine faculty members who signed the letter will continue to propagate misconceptions with regard to the goals of both the faculty and UPG, and to undermine the trust and morale of faculty and the relationship of the physicians and university leadership. We would ask, respectfully, that all parties refrain from engaging in conjecture. Doing so will not lead us toward a path of healing and only distract us from the restorative work before us. This is a pivotal moment for our health system a time when we as leaders and supporters of the university should be pulling together to mend relationships and move forward in service to our larger community and the greater good. We have trust to rebuild both among our faculty and within our community. Let that be our primary focus. That said, given assertions set forth in recent articles published in The Daily Progress, particularly the ones published in the March 31 article, we feel it would be a disservice to fail to correct some basic inaccuracies related to the structure, functions and purpose of UPG. Without knowing the identity, productivity or compensation of the 128 physicians who signed the letter, we do not understand how anyone could conclude greed was a motivating factor, nor did the letter mention compensation as a concern. Additionally, it is critical to point out that UPG does not and has never set compensation for faculty physicians; this falls entirely under the purview of the School of Medicine. For the sake of clarity, UPG and the School of Medicine jointly employ schools clinical faculty. We work very closely with the School of Medicine in its recruitment efforts as part of our chartered purpose as a nonprofit 5013 university-associated organization, or UAO, which is to attract health care professionals of outstanding ability and professional and academic reputation. (UPG is one of 23 UVa-related UAOs.) Further, there is no reason to believe that our clinicians are overpaid for their work, given that they are benchmarked against industry standards. It has been our experience that UVa physicians are hardworking, dedicated professionals, passionate and unwavering in their devotion to the health and well-being of their patients and motivated by this calling. Further, we are confident that UVa physician faculty have spoken and acted out of genuine concerns for the best interests of the patients, the School of Medicine and the health system they serve. While there are other allegations within recent publications with which we could take public issue, including inaccuracies related to UPG administrative overhead, staffing and the duties of UPG employees (to act as efficient stewards of resources and not, as suggested, to maximize physician incomes), we would much prefer to focus our energy and efforts on the restorative work that lies before us. Our patients, clinicians and community deserve nothing less than our steadfast commitment to this work. Advancing all that is great and good within our health system will depend upon it. As we move forward together, may our collective mission to transform health and inspire hope for all drive us in everything we do. Let us support the mission and one another, and not allow the esteem of our physicians, patients and community to be undermined by spurious claims. UNAMI Strongly Condemns Attack on Assyrian in Iraq The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) strongly condemns the attack that took place on 1 April 2025, targeting a gathering of Assyrian Christians in Duhok, in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, during their celebration of "Akitu", the Assyrian-Babylonian New Year. The attack resulted in two people being seriously injured and disrupted what was meant to be a peaceful and joyful religious celebration. Dr. Mohamed Al-Hassan, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq and Head of UNAMI, praised the swift and effective response by Iraqi authorities, which led to the immediate apprehension of the perpetrator. He also expressed his strong condemnation of this criminal act, which threatens the spirit of coexistence and tolerance that Iraqis and the Iraqi authorities have worked diligently to rebuild and preserve. He called on the authorities to ensure those responsible are held accountable. "As we express our solidarity with the Assyrian Christian community during these difficult times, we emphasize that religious and ethnic diversity is a cornerstone of Iraq's social fabric and must always be safeguarded as an essential element of a stable and inclusive Iraq," Dr. Al-Hassan added. Madeline Langford, a freshman at Oregon State University, submitted a T-shirt design for Dam Proud Day, coming up at the end of this month but didnt win. Shes bitter but not for the reasons you might think. Majoring in digital communication arts, Langford strongly believes and is backed by a chorus of social media users on several platforms that the first- and third-place winners submitted AI-generated designs. I dont mind being beat at all by genuine human designs, she wrote in an emailed complaint to the OSU Foundation, which sponsors the contest, after receiving her rejection notice, but I have an issue with being displaced by AI. The winner first place is awarded $1,000, second $500 and third $250 will have her design printed on 2,000 T-shirts that are distributed as part of the Dam Proud Day festivities, an annual event designed to reach current students and alumni near and far and give them a dose of Beaver fever, served alongside a pitch to donate. We are DAM PROUD of all our creative Beavs congratulations to the winners, and thank you, Beaver Nation, for voting, and to all who submitted designs! says the OSU Foundations Instagram post, in announcing the winners. Initially, the post allowed comments. But when users started to notice some quirks in the designs of the first- and third-place selections, the vibes were more damn than dam. Dude, that first one is AI-generated. Super disappointing to see this even be a part of the competition, wrote one user. AI slop is AI slop, wrote another. The foundation then turned off commenting and deleted all of the posts, even the congratulatory ones. But in true internet fashion, nothing is ever really erased. Langford made a video of the comments section before it disappeared. I appreciate you guys looking into this, she said when reached for comment. The rules The contest was open to all current OSU students in Corvallis, Bend and those who attend online as part of the Ecampus. OSU Foundation gave specific instructions, covering everything from the color palette (black and white, to be silk screened onto an orange shirt, of course), to the dimensions, and giving approval to incorporate Benny if so desired but it better closely match the on-field costume. About AI, the policy is included in this line: Parody or mimicked designs are not permitted. AI use is discouraged. Discouraged, not disallowed. Reached for comment, the OSU Foundation sent an email message via Molly Brown, the associate vice president, marketing and communications. She said dozens of students had entered, and five finalists were ultimately put before fellow students to select the winners. While our contest guidelines recommended against the use of AI, they did not explicitly prohibit it, she wrote. As a result, we did not disqualify entries based on suspected or alleged AI use. We understand the use of AI in creative expression is nuanced, with different and thoughtful points of view. Email, phone and direct messaging attempts to reach the first- and third-place winners were unsuccessful. What AI says about AI But were their designs created with AI? Mid-Valley Media uploaded the first- and third-place selections into eight online AI image detectors, which use AI themselves. The first-place design was labeled as likely AI-generated seven times, the third-place design six times. Using free demos, some of the AI detectors were more descriptive than others. For example, a program called Synthetic Eye simply labeled them AI-Generated. Said Fake Image Detector about both: Looks like computer-generated or modified image. But others went into more detail, offering a percentage likelihood that the winning image was AI: 69.8%, said a program called Illuminarty, while Hive put it at 71.8%. Still, other programs not only suggested a probability, they also identified which AI programs were likely used to create the works. For example, Sightengine, while putting the overall odds that the winning design is AI at 99%, broke that down even further by saying there was an 87% chance an AI program called Recraft was used. A detector called IsItAI found similarly. But it wasnt unanimous. Hive put the likelihood that the third-place winner used AI at .2%, and a detector program called WasitAI said about both, Were quite confident that no AI was used when producing this image. For fun, Mid-Valley Media fired up Recraft and entered the following prompt: Hand-drawn illustration, Oregon, mountains, hills, pine trees, river with rocks, flower border along the sides, ribbon banner on the bottom, black ink, orange background. While we couldnt recreate it in the two minutes the attempt took, the style is not dissimilar to the winning design. We dont know why it used other colors, but we kind of like ours better. When Langford contacted the foundation with her suspicions, she received a response by email from Julia Souza, a graduate in a program to train future education fundraisers, who wrote: We host this contest as an opportunity for students to share their creativity, and our team values the human skill it takes to create a great design. That said, we do not have a definitive way to verify whether a design was AI-generated, so we cannot disqualify entries based on suspicion alone. In reply, Lanford sent a screenshot of yet another AI detector that deemed the winning image AI with 99% certainty, this one setting the likelihood that Recraft was used at 59%. She said she never heard back. So did they use AI? OSU Foundation's Brown said her organization didn't ask, "as the use of AI was not prohibited in this years contest." How would one know? Christoph Alexander Anderson isnt an art student. Hes a third-year natural resources major focusing on disturbance ecology with a minor in entomology, the study of insects. Still, he believes he can spot AI-generated work. I just use critical thinking skills and look twice at any art piece I see to see if it makes sense, he said by email. Do the lines line up? Do the shapes make sense? Is this really supposed to represent the subject? He also knows a lot about, well, nature. Heres Andersons verbatim breakdown of the winning design: The mountain in the background resembles Mount Fuji or Saint Helens, even though this is about Oregon State. The background mountains are also flat. A single mountain doesn't make a V like that. The smaller mountains are also odd and out of place. The trees don't make sense. Their designs are clunky and erratic and don't flow together. They look ... Garbled is the best way I can describe it. The flowers have leaves in odd places. It looks like the plant itself is emerging from the petals in places. The top left flower looks like it's trying to be another mountain. Why does the top right flower become a tree? The rocks are warped and strange, and their placement in the water is erratic. Lines run into each other and stop with no purpose. As far as Anderson is concerned, using AI is cheating. "It bothers me because people who do nothing but type in a few words are winning against people who pour their heart and soul into something," he said, adding that because he recognizes he's not a good enough artist, he didn't enter. "Yet people who used AI won", he said. "It's obscenely frustrating to me that you can cheat and win. Langford believes she has a solution. She said the contest organizers can ask the entrants to submit their layers, which are like digital transparency sheets artists use to create digital artwork. Theyre a standard part of image editing software. With a design like that, she said in her unanswered email to the foundation in reference to what became the winner, it surely will have multiple layers that they can show for proof. She concluded: If your team doesnt check this time, I hope you consider asking for some sort of progress shot or photo of all the layers in future designs. Related story: If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here New Delhi, April 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit in Thailand on Friday, marking a significant step in strengthening regional ties and advancing economic cooperation. The summit, which brings together leaders from Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Bhutan, is a crucial platform for fostering collaboration in areas such as connectivity, development, and regional economic integration within the Bay of Bengal region. In his departure statement, Prime Minister Modi emphasised the importance of BIMSTEC as an essential forum for promoting regional prosperity. He remarked, "BIMSTEC has emerged as a vital platform for regional development, connectivity, and economic progress. I look forward to engaging with fellow leaders to deepen cooperation and ensure mutual benefits for our people." The Prime Minister's participation underscores India's commitment to its "Neighbourhood First" and "Act East" policies, aligning with its broader vision for the Indo-Pacific region. The summit will offer a platform for leaders to discuss key initiatives that drive shared growth and regional stability. Following the BIMSTEC Summit, Prime Minister Modi will embark on a two-day State Visit to Sri Lanka, marking his first visit to the island nation since 2019. During his visit, he will engage in discussions with Sri Lankan President H.E. Mr. Anura Kumara Disanayaka, reviewing progress on areas of cooperation as outlined in the "Joint Vision for Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future." The visit will also include the inauguration of Indian-funded development projects in Anuradhapura. This visit to Thailand and Sri Lanka further reaffirms India's ongoing efforts to strengthen its ties with its neighbours and emphasise its role as a key regional partner in fostering growth, security, and connectivity across the region. United Nations, April 4 : A UN envoy condemned Israel's latest air and ground attacks on Syria, and denounced such moves undermine efforts toward peace and destabilise the country. In a statement, Geir Pedersen, the UN special envoy for Syria, condemned the repeated and intensifying military escalations by Israel in Syria, including airstrikes that have reportedly resulted in civilian casualties, Xinhua news agency reported. "Such actions undermine efforts to build a new Syria at peace with itself and the region, and destabilise Syria at a sensitive time," he said. The special envoy called on Israel to cease these attacks which could amount to serious violations of international law and respect Syria's sovereignty and existing agreements, and also to cease unilateral actions on the ground. He urges all parties to prioritise diplomatic solutions and dialogue to address security concerns and prevent further escalation. The Israeli military launched a wave of some 25 airstrikes targeting military sites across Syria late Wednesday, which reportedly killed at least four members of Syria's defense authorities and wounded 12 others. Syria's state-run SANA news agency reported that one of the Israeli airstrikes hit the Jubailiyah Forest area between the city of Nawa and the town of Tasil in the southern Daraa Province, killing nine civilians and wounding several others. Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes conducted two airstrikes on Thursday evening targeting the 75th Brigade near the town of al-Kiswah, south of Damascus, Syrian state television reported. No immediate details were provided regarding casualties or the extent of damage from the strikes. The attack followed a significant wave of Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday, which targeted five locations across Syria, including Damascus, Hama, and Homs. The strikes on Hama resulted in the near-total destruction of the military airport and left at least nine people dead, including four Ministry of Defence personnel, according to local officials and state media. New Delhi, April 4 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit Chhattisgarh on Friday for a two-day trip to evaluate the progress of the ongoing anti-Naxal operations in the state. During his visit, HM Shah will chair a high-level meeting to review the current operations, focusing particularly on the Leftwing insurgency-hit areas of Bastar and Gariaband. His visit will include a direct review of the security situation in these regions, with a particular emphasis on the progress and effectiveness of anti-Naxal measures. This visit comes at a critical time as Chhattisgarh has seen significant success in its efforts to combat Naxal violence. So far in 2025, at least 130 Naxalites have been killed in encounters, with more than 110 of those deaths occurring in the Bastar division, which includes the districts of Bijapur and Kanker. Additionally, over 105 Naxalites have been arrested, and 164 have voluntarily surrendered as part of the ongoing efforts to restore peace to the region. On Saturday, HM Shah is set to travel to Dantewada, a key area in south Bastar, where he will meet with security personnel actively involved in the operations. Additionally, the Union Home Minister will attend the closing ceremony of the 'Bastar Pandum' festival, an event organised by the state government to highlight the rich art, culture, and cuisine of the various tribal communities in Bastar. HM Shah's visit is part of the government's broader strategy to eliminate the Naxal threat by March 31, 2026. He has consistently urged Maoists to surrender and rejoin society, promising a well-structured rehabilitation process. The Home Minister's visit underscores the government's ongoing commitment to ending the Naxal insurgency and ensuring long-term peace and development in the affected regions. United Nations, April 4 : An estimated 280,000 Gazans have been newly displaced since the intensification of hostilities over two weeks ago, with some of them forced to move into overcrowded, flea- and mite-infested shelters, according to UN humanitarians. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said more Israeli displacement orders were issued, again forcing people to flee in search of safety. "Increasing numbers of people are moving into the remaining shelters which are already overcrowded," OCHA said. "Infestations of fleas and mites are reported, causing skin rashes and other health issues." The office said the aid blockade makes it difficult to tackle the problem due to the lack of materials available in Gaza to improve hygiene conditions. OCHA said the United Nations and its humanitarian partners continue to respond to the immense needs of the population as the conditions allow. The month-long blockade on the entry of all humanitarian aid and essential goods deprives the population of basic needs. Food assistance inside Gaza is rapidly running out. However, the office said food security partners have so far been able to deliver more than 900,00 hot meals daily. OCHA urged immediately reopening the crossings for cargo and humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. Earlier the Israeli military has ordered civilians in multiple areas of the northern Gaza Strip to evacuate immediately, citing intercepted rocket fire from Palestinian territory. Military spokesman Avichay Adraee on Wednesday urged residents to "move immediately west to the shelters in Gaza City," accusing "terrorist organisations" of launching attacks "from among civilians." New Delhi, April 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by the Parliament, calling it a "watershed moment" in India's pursuit of socio-economic justice, transparency, and inclusive growth. In the early hours of Friday, the Rajya Sabha approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, with a majority of 128 votes against 95, following a heated debate. The Bill had been passed in the Lok Sabha just a day earlier, after nearly 12 hours of intense discussions. Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, "The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a watershed moment in our collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency, and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity." Appreciating the lawmakers, he added, "Gratitude to all Members of Parliament who participated in the Parliamentary and Committee discussions, voiced their perspectives, and contributed to strengthening these legislations. A special thanks also to the countless people who sent their valuable inputs to the Parliamentary committee. Yet again, the importance of extensive debate and dialogue has been reaffirmed." PM Modi emphasised that the reforms would bring long-overdue transparency to the Waqf system, which, he said, had lacked accountability for decades. "For decades, the Waqf system was synonymous with lack of transparency and accountability. This especially harmed the interests of Muslim women, poor Muslims, and Pasmanda Muslims. The legislation passed by Parliament will boost transparency and also safeguard people's rights," he stated. "We will now enter an era where the framework will be more modern and sensitive to social justice. On a larger note, we remain committed to prioritising the dignity of every citizen. This is also how we build a stronger, more inclusive, and more compassionate India," he added. The Rajya Sabha debate, which began on Thursday, culminated in the Bill's passage early Friday. The legislation will now be sent to President Droupadi Murmu for her assent before becoming law. Seoul, April 4 : The Constitutional Court unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday, removing him from office over his short-lived imposition of martial law in December. The verdict, which was read by acting court chief Moon Hyung-bae and televised live, took effect immediately, requiring the country to hold a snap presidential election to pick Yoon's successor within 60 days, which many expect to fall on June 3, Yonhap news agency reported. Yoon was impeached by the opposition-controlled National Assembly in mid-December on charges of violating the Constitution and laws by declaring martial law on December 3, deploying troops to the National Assembly to stop lawmakers from voting down the decree and ordering the arrest of politicians. "The negative effects on the constitutional order and the repercussions from the defendant's violations of the law are grave, making the benefits of protecting the Constitution by dismissing the defendant larger than the national losses from dismissing the president by an overwhelming degree," Moon said. The court recognised effectively all of the charges against Yoon, including that he did not meet the legal requirements for declaring martial law and sent troops to the Assembly to stop its reversal of the decree. The ruling People Power Party said it "humbly accepts" the court's ruling, while the main opposition Democratic Party welcomed it as a "people's victory." Earlier the National Assembly Secretariat has completely restricted access to outsiders from Thursday to Sunday. All scheduled seminars and events hosted by lawmakers during this period have been canceled. "We have restricted access to outsiders and significantly reinforced our police and security as a precaution against any possible situation," an official from the National Assembly Speaker's office told Yonhap. New Delhi, April 4 : Renowned actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passed away on Friday at the age of 87 at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai on Friday He had been unwell for some time and was admitted to the hospital on February 21 after his condition worsened. Condoling his demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a social media post, said that he was deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary actor and filmmaker. The Prime Minister, in a post on X, wrote, "Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films." PM Modi further said that his works ignited a spirit of national pride. "Manoj Ji's works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti," the PM further said. PM Modi also shared pictures of the veteran actor when they had met years ago. The veteran actor received the Padma Shri in 1992 for his contributions to Bollywood. His legacy was further solidified when he was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. He was popularly known as aBharat Kumara for his patriotic films. He made a mark with classics like Shaheed, 'Hariyali Aur Raasta', 'Woh Kaun Thi', 'Himalaya Ki God Mein', 'Do Badan', 'Patthar Ke Sanam', 'Neel Kamal', and 'Kranti', ' Upkar', 'Roti Kapda Aur Makaan' and several other movies which have been regarded as remarkable piece of cinema. Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Punjab's Amritsar, Manoj Kumar carved a niche for himself in Bollywood. Apart from Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Manoj Kumar's contributions to Indian cinema earned him several prestigious accolades, including a National Film Award and seven Filmfare Awards in different categories. Mumbai, April 4 : Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar breathed his last on Friday at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He was 87. Reportedly, the medical reports reveal that Manoj Kumar's death was caused by cardiogenic shock resulting from an acute myocardial infarction, a severe heart attack. The reports also indicated that he had been struggling with decompensated liver cirrhosis in recent months, which had worsened his health. The legendary actor was admitted to the hospital on February 21, 2025, when his health deteriorated. Dr Santosh Shetty, CEO and Executive Director at Kokilaben Ambani Hospital, said in a official statement, "Veteran actor Shri Manoj Kumarji passed away peacefully at the Kokilaben Ambani Hospital early this morning at around 3:30 AM, due to age-related health issues. He had been hospitalized for the past few weeks." Following the news of his passing, tributes quickly flooded in from celebrities, politicians, and fans alike. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his sorrow, mourning the loss of the legendary actor-director. Taking to his X handle, he tweeted, "Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Ji's works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti." Manoj Kumar, widely recognized for his patriotic films, was affectionately known by the moniker 'Bharat Kumar.' Born as Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Amritsar, Punjab, Manoj made a lasting impact on Hindi cinema. His memorable performances in films such as "Shaheed", "Upkar," and "Rang De Basanti" struck a deep chord with the patriotic spirit of the Indian audience. Manoj Kumar, one of the most successful actors of the 60s and 70s, worked in multiple iconic films like "Shor," "Do Badan", "Roti Kapda Aur Makaan," "Purab Aur Paschim," and many others. Apart from his acting career, he was also a director and producer. He directed several hit films like "Upkar," "Kranti," "Clerk," and others. Manoj Kumar also ventured into politics and, after his retirement from films, officially joined the BJP. Seoul, April 4 : South Korea and India held a joint forum on growth strategy on Friday and discussed measures to expand bilateral cooperation in trade, Seoul's industry ministry said. In the Seoul forum, the two sides discussed advancing collaboration in trade and investment, as well as future industries, such as advanced manufacturing and renewable energies, as special strategic partners, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, reports Yonhap news agency. The two countries upgraded their bilateral relations to a special strategic partnership in 2015 to boost their comprehensive cooperation in trade, defence and technology. The forum, co-hosted by the industry ministry and the Embassy of India in Seoul, took place just a day after the U.S. administration announced plans to impose country-by-country reciprocal tariffs, raising concerns over a global trade war. South Korea is subject to 25 per cent reciprocal duties and India 27 per cent. "The two countries have seen limited performance compared to their potential for cooperation, but South Korea will work to promote more tangible cooperation with India this year," said Kim Jong-chul, director general for international trade relations at the ministry. Indian Ambassador to South Korea Amit Kumar also called for a sustainable partnership between the two countries considering their economic structure, growth potential and strategic benefits, according to the ministry. Meanwhile, South Korean defence giant Hanwha Aerospace has signed a 371.4 billion-won ($253.6 million) deal to export homegrown K9 self-propelled howitzers to India. Under the agreement, the company will deliver the K9 howitzers to the Indian Army by September 2030, in cooperation with Mumbai-based company Larsen & Toubro, according to Hanwha Aerospace. The deal aligns with India's ongoing efforts to modernize its military, the company added. This agreement follows a 2017 contract, under which Hanwha supplied 372.7 billion won worth of K9 howitzers to India by 2020. Hanwha Aerospace said this additional contract reflects the K9's proven reliability in meeting the Indian Army's operational needs. Mount Maunganui, April 4 : New Zealand batter Mark Chapman has been ruled out of the third and final ODI against Pakistan at Bay Oval as he continues his recovery from a minor hamstring injury, NZC said on Friday. Chapman was ruled out of the second ODI in Hamilton with a minor hamstring tear he sustained during the first ODI in Napier, and a subsequent MRI scan revealed a grade one tear, which required a short period of rehabilitation. It was hoped Chapman would be fit to return for the last contest at Mount Maunganui on Saturday, but the 30-year-old failed a fitness test at training on Friday and will not be risked. NZC said that assessment at training on Friday revealed that the batter has not recovered sufficiently to take his place in the XI for the final match of the series. Top-order batter Tim Seifert, who was called in to replace Chapman in Hamilton, will stay with the squad for the third ODI on Saturday. Seifert was Player of the Series during the recent five-match T20I series that New Zealand won 4-1 over Pakistan, but the 30-year-old is yet to receive a chance to add to his three previous international ODI appearances for his country. The Kiwis have been dominating Pakistan on home turf throughout the white-ball series. After securing a massive 4-1 series win in the T20Is, they also sealed the ODI series by taking the unassailable 2-0 lead after winning the opening ODI by 73 runs and registering an 84-run win in the second match to seal the series. a"IANS bc/ Seoul, April 4 : South Korean acting President Han Duck-soo vowed Friday to ensure stability in national security and diplomacy following the Constitutional Court's ruling that ousted former President Yoon Suk Yeol. "As acting president, I will ensure that there is no vacuum in national security or foreign affairs, and (the country) maintains a firm and unwavering security posture," Han said in a televised national address. "I will also do everything in my authority to ensure that there are no disruptions in addressing pressing issues such as trade disputes, and firmly maintain public order so that our citizens feel safe and secure," he said. The Constitutional Court unanimously upheld Yoon's impeachment, removing him from office over his short-lived imposition of martial law in December. South Korea is required to hold a snap presidential election within 60 days, Yonhap news agency reported. Han promised to do all he can to ensure a smooth transition of leadership to the next president. "I will strictly abide by the Constitution and the law to ensure the next government is launched without delay," he said. "I will do my utmost to oversee a smooth and fair presidential election." Han called on public officials to carry out their duties responsibly and with diligence. "Please devote yourselves to ensuring that the Republic of Korea overcomes this crisis and that the everyday lives of our citizens remain steady and undisturbed," he said. Han asked the political circles and the National Assembly to "set aside differences" and come together "in unity and with wisdom" for the nation's future. Han also visited the central disaster headquarters at the government complex in Seoul to check safety and security. He instructed officials and relevant agencies to make every effort to maintain public order and to minimise any damage or potential clashes arising from demonstrations. "Now is the time for the people," he was quoted by his office as saying during the visit. "As the decision was made in accordance with our constitutional order, it must be respected, and the public should express their opinions peacefully and demonstrate mature civic awareness." New Delhi, April 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday greeted the nation on the seventh day of Chaitra Navratri, saying Mother Goddess brings happiness to her devotees. In a post on his X handle, PM Modi wrote, "The grace of Maa Jagdamba brings a new dawn of happiness in the lives of her devotees." He also shared a prayer song of the legendary Late Lata Mangeshkar, saying, "This prayer of Lata Didi for Devi Maa in Navratri is going to infuse a new energy in everyone" The prayer song is from Lata Mangeshkar's classic music video 'Aaj Tera Jagraata'. On the seventh day of Navratri, Mother Goddess is worshipped in the form of Adishakti Maa Durga, the destroyer of evil, 'Maa Kalratri'. She bestows auspicious results on her devotees. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, while greeting devotees, prayed for happiness for the whole world. "With the blessings of Maa Bhagwati, may the whole world be filled with happiness, peace, prosperity and positivity. This is my prayer. Jai Maa Kalratri!" wrote CM Yogi on his X handle in Hindi. He also shared a picture of the Goddess form and also posted a Sanskirt Sholk. The name "Kaalratri' is a fusion of "kaal", which means time or death, and "ratri" means night or darkness or ignorance. Thus, Kaalratri embodies the force that brings an end to darkness, signifying the emergence of light and wisdom. Goddess Maa Kaalratri is known to be the most fearsome manifestation, and her dark complexion represents her intense and unyielding nature. Maa Kaalratri is depicted with four arms and is the embodiment of both fear and protection. Her upper right hand bestows boons upon her devotees, and her lower right hand offers protection and fearlessness. In her upper left hand, she wields a sword, and in her lower left hand, she carries an iron club, which she uses to vanquish evil forces. Navrarti is being celebrated all over the country with great devotion. Thousands of her devotees have been thronging various temples to offer prayers. Bangkok, April 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with other BIMSTEC leaders, reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening cooperation across various sectors as he attended the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on Friday. The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit brings together leaders from India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Bhutan to enhance collaboration in connectivity, development, and regional economic integration. PM Modi, Nepali PM K.P. Sharma Oli, Bhutanese PM Tshering Tobgay, Sri Lankan PM Harini Amarasuriya, Bangladeshi interim government Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, and Myanmar's military leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing were welcomed by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra upon arrival. Taking to X, PM Modi posted, "With fellow BIMSTEC leaders at the Summit being held in Bangkok, Thailand. We reaffirm our commitment to boosting cooperation across diverse sectors. May our efforts bring a positive difference in people's lives." Earlier in the day, PM Modi met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar's military-led government, to discuss bilateral ties and India's support following the devastating earthquake in Myanmar. "Met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. Once again, expressed condolences on the loss of lives and damage of property in the wake of the recent earthquake," PM Modi shared on X. "India is doing whatever is possible to assist our sisters and brothers of Myanmar in this critical time," he added. India has been extending humanitarian aid under 'Operation Brahma' following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that claimed over 3,000 lives in Myanmar. On Thursday, PM Modi held bilateral talks with Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra at the Government House in Bangkok, where both leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership. The discussions covered a wide range of cooperation areas, culminating in the signing of key agreements to further strengthen ties between the two nations. Ahead of his visit, PM Modi highlighted BIMSTEC's importance in fostering regional prosperity, stating, "BIMSTEC has emerged as a vital platform for regional development, connectivity, and economic progress. I look forward to engaging with fellow leaders to deepen cooperation and ensure mutual benefits for our people." His participation underscores India's commitment to its Neighbourhood First and Act East policies, aligning with its broader Indo-Pacific vision. The Summit serves as a platform for leaders to drive shared growth and regional stability. Chennai, April 4 : Sailesh Kolanu, the director of actor Nani's upcoming film, 'Hit: The Third Case', has expressed disappointment at a section of the media leaking details of his film which the makers had intended to keep as a surprise for audiences. Taking to his timeline on X, director Sailesh wrote, 'For every single moment of excitement that is experienced in the cinemas by our audience, there is a story of a huge team working relentlessly for days and nights together, slogging beyond their physical capabilities. All for that moment of impact that we want to create in the auditorium. We take pride in that." The director, in his post, then went on to express his thoughts on the state of the media today. "It's sad to see the plight of the media scenario today, some of whom don't think even for a second before leaking details about the kind of moments that are meant to be enjoyed while watching the movie in the theatres only. "While the nature of job to report first is understandable, it boils down to the values and ethics of individual journalist and media houses to assess if it's right or wrong to report the findings." Recalling that journalists in the past used to exercise their judgement and choose not report certain events because it was not right, he said, " There are moments in history where journalists raised above their job description and chose not to report some events just because it's not correct. I only wish these certain bunch of people had that kind of class." The director further went on to say, "This kind of reporting is not just stealing a film crew's hard work, it's equivalent to stealing directly from the audience." Nani plays the role of a tough cop called Arjun Sarkaar in the film. The film, which is the third instalment from the HIT universe, has triggered huge expectations among fans and film buffs. It is to hit screens worldwide on May 1 this year. Directed by Dr. Sailesh Kolanu and produced by Prashanthi Tipirneni, the film will feature Nani and Srinidhi Shetty in the lead. Music for the film is by Mickey J Meyer and cinematography is by Sanu John Varghese. The film's editing has been taken care of by Karthika Srinivas R. --IANS Mkr/ Mumbai, April 4 : Actor Ali Fazal has expressed his excitement and gratitude about working with the legendary Kamal Haasan in the upcoming film "Thug Life." Mumbai, April 4 (IANS) Actor Ali Fazal has expressed his excitement and gratitude about working with the legendary Kamal Haasan in the upcoming film "Thug Life." In a recent statement, Fazal shared how the opportunity to collaborate with Haasan was something he had always dreamed of, describing it as a surreal experience that he never imagined would come true. Speaking about the same, he shared, "As an actor, my goal has always been to explore, to push boundaries, and to challenge myself with every role. 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years of my career because I get to be part of diverse and powerful narratives across different industries and platforms." "Stepping into my south debut with Mani Ratnam is a huge honor. Working alongside Kamal Haasan sir, who has been a massive inspiration for generations of actors, is something I could have only dreamed of. It's a world-class story, and I'm grateful to be a part of it. This year is blessed and exciting that I'm being able to work across industries, genres, and platforms," he added. Speaking about his forthcoming projects, the Fukrey actor went on to mention, "Then there's Rule Breakers, which is a real-life-inspired Hollywood film about the wonderful groups of courageous girls. It' a project that pushed my mind to think differently and embody another real-life character, and collaborating with such talented minds is an absolute thrill. Back in Bollywood, Anurag Basu's Metro In Dino is a film that captures the emotional essence of urban life, and Lahore 1947 is a historical epic that's deeply moving and important. And on the show front, Rakht Brahmand with Raj & DK is something completely new for mea fantasy period drama that promises to be unlike anything we've seen before." Ali concluded by saying, "For me, cinema isn't about borders or mediumsit's about storytelling. Whether it's Tamil, Hindi, English, theatrical, or streaming, I just want to be part of stories that leave an impact. 2025 is just the beginning, and I can't wait for the audience to witness what's coming." Ali Fazal is all set to make his highly awaited South debut with Mani Ratnam's film "Thug Life." Chennai, April 4 : Actress Hebah Patel, who made an impression with her performance in the superhit film 'Odela Railway Station', has now said that her character in 'Odela 2' will create as much of an impact it did in the first part of the franchise. While it has been disclosed that Tamannaah would be seen as a Naga sadhu, a character with mysterious energy, in the sequel, not much is known about the role Hebah Patel essays in the sequel. Ask her about it and she says, "I have combination scenes with Tamannaah in this film. She will be seen in my sister character. However, I will be seen mostly in the jail episodes in the film. My character will create as much impact in the second part as it did in the first part." 'Odela 2' has triggered huge expectations as this is the second instalment from the 'Odela' franchise. The franchise, created by Sampath Nandi, has Tamannah Bhatia playing the lead in the sequel. Produced by D Madhu under the direction of Ashok Teja, the film has music by Ajaneesh Loknath and cinematography by Soundar Rajan. Ask Hebah if she thought that there would be a sequel to it when Odela Railway Station was made and she smiles. "Odela Railway Station was a film made during the lockdown. All the shootings were stopped due to Corona. At a time when it was not known when it would start again, Sampath Nandi garu and the team bravely came forward and made 'Odela 1'. In fact, at that time, I did not think that there would be a sequel to this. The film received a very good success. It was a greater success than we expected. All the audiences who saw the film praised it as being very good. But even then, I did not expect that the sequel to this film would be at this level, and that there would be a sequel on such a grand scale." So, how different would 'Odela 2' be from 'Odela 1'? Says Hebah Patel, "'Odela 1' is an out- and-out murder mystery. 'Odela 2' is a supernatural thriller. 'Odela 2' is much bigger than 'Odela'. It has many amazing elements. The audience will have a great theatrical experience." --IANS Mkr/ Bokaro, April 4 : Tension gripped Bokaro on Friday after a youth died and several others were injured in a lathicharge on displaced individuals protesting for jobs at the Bokaro Steel Plant on Thursday evening. In response, widespread protests broke out across the city on Friday. Several political parties, including the AJSU Party and Jharkhand Loktantrik Kranti Morcha, along with displaced persons' organisations, called for a bandh, which saw a significant impact from early morning. Leaders such as Bokaro Congress MLA Shwettaa Singh and Dumri MLA Jairam Mahato joined protesters on the streets. Road blockades were reported at multiple locations, and most shops in the city remained shut. The displaced individuals -- whose land was acquired for the construction of the Bokaro Steel Plant decades ago -- have long demanded jobs and compensation. Many of the agitating youth have undergone apprentice training at the plant and are now demanding permanent employment. On Thursday, a large group of displaced youth and their families staged a protest at the plant's main gate, blocking entry and preventing staff and officers from entering the premises. In anticipation of unrest, Bokaro Steel management had set up barricades. Around 5 p.m., when protestors breached the barricades and attempted to enter Ispat Bhawan, the plant's headquarters, CISF personnel deployed at the site resorted to a lathicharge. Four protesters were injured in the police action, and one of them -- 32-year-old Prem Mahato of Shibutand village under Harla police station -- died later that night during treatment. News of Mahato's death further inflamed tempers. Congress MLA Shwettaa Singh rushed to the spot and held the Bokaro Steel management responsible. "Their land was taken away, and now they are being lathicharged for asking for jobs. This brutality will not be tolerated," she said. Dumri MLA Jairam Mahato also visited late on Thursday night and demanded immediate action from the state government, SAIL management, and Bokaro district administration. "Those responsible must be arrested at once," he said. Bokaro Deputy Commissioner Vijaya Jadhav said an FIR has been registered against Bokaro Steel Limited (BSL) and CISF. "The administration will take appropriate action," she added. New Delhi, April 4 : Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi, the National President of All India Muslim Jamaat, expressed his support for the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, stating that it would significantly benefit Muslims and ensure the betterment of their socio-economic conditions. He praised the passage of the bill in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha and thanked the Modi government. Maulana Shahabuddin, giving his first reaction to passage of bill, said, "The Waqf Amendment Bill does not harm common Muslims, it will benefit them. The only ones who stand to lose are the Waqf land mafias who have illegally occupied valuable land. Common Muslims will not be affected by this." He further stated that the bill is aimed at protecting the interests of the poor and vulnerable sections of the Muslim community. The Maulana explained that the revenue generated from Waqf land would be used to improve the socio-economic status of impoverished Muslims, particularly those unable to afford quality education for their children. "The income from Waqf land will be used for the benefit of poor Muslims, helping children from low-income families get a better education, and assisting orphans and widows in their development," he said. Maulana Shahabuddin assured that the funds would be used according to the intention of the Waqf and aimed at opening schools, colleges, madrasas, and orphanages to uplift the educational and social standing of underprivileged Muslims. Addressing concerns about the impact on religious sites, Maulana Shahabuddin stated, "The Waqf Amendment Bill poses no threat to religious sites. Mosques, madrasas, Eidgahs, cemeteries, and shrines will remain unaffected. The government will not interfere with these religious institutions in any way." He further cautioned the Muslim community against falling prey to misleading political narratives, urging them not to be swayed by political figures seeking to exploit the situation for their own gain. "Some politicians are misleading Muslims for their own interests. I appeal to the Muslim community to not fall for their provocations," he added. In the early hours of Friday, the Rajya Sabha approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, with a majority of 128 votes against 95, following a heated debate. The Bill had been passed in the Lok Sabha just a day earlier, after nearly 12 hours of intense discussions. Drawing a parallel to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) controversy, Maulana Shahabuddin recalled how political leaders misled the Muslim community, causing unwarranted fear that Muslims would lose their citizenship. "When the CAA law was introduced, Muslims were misled into believing that their citizenship would be revoked. However, after its implementation, it became clear that no Muslim in India lost their citizenship, and instead, many were granted citizenship," he stated. Mumbai, April 4 : Actor Ajay Devgn has opened up about the pivotal role Manoj Kumar played in shaping his father, Veeru Devgn's career. Recalling the moment with fondness, Ajay shared how Manoj Kumar gave his father his first break as an action director in the iconic film "Roti Kapda Aur Makaan," marking a significant milestone in Veeru Devgn's successful career in the film industry. The 'Singham' actor took to his Instagram handle to pay his heartfelt tribute to the legendary filmmaker and actor. Sharing his photo from one of his films, Devgn captioned it, "Manoj Kumar ji was not just a cinematic icon - he was a personal milestone in my family's journey. He gave my father, Veeru Devgan, his very first break as an action director in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan. From there, their collaboration continued all the way to Kranti, creating moments that are now part of Indian cinema's golden history." He added, "Manoj ji's films - Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, Shor, and Krantithey weren't just filmsthey were national emotions. His creative genius, unwavering patriotism, and storytelling depth set a benchmark that very few have matched. As Indian cinema bids farewell to its Bharat Kumar - a storyteller, a patriot, and a legend. I also wish to say thank you for shaping my father's journey and for inspiring countless storytellers like me. Your legacy, Manoj ji, is eternal. Om Shanti. - Ajay Devgn." Tributes poured in from numerous celebrities, including Akshay Kumar, Farah Khan, Aamir Khan, Farhan Akhtar, and many others, honoring the legacy of the late Manoj Kumar. Manoj Kumar, the legendary actor-director, passed away on Friday at the age of 87 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He was admitted to the hospital on February 21 after his health deteriorated significantly. In a statement, Dr. Santosh Shetty, CEO and Executive Director at Kokilaben Ambani Hospital, said, "Veteran actor Shri Manoj Kumarji passed away peacefully at the Kokilaben Ambani Hospital early this morning at around 3:30 AM due to age-related health issues. He had been hospitalized for the past few weeks." Malappuram, April 4 : The National Investigating Agency (NIA) on Friday took four people into custody after raiding five houses in Kerala's Malappuram district. The raids were held in continuation of the action by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which conducted raids at the residences and offices of some SDPI activists in March. The Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) is the political arm of the now-banned Popular Front of India (PFI). It was the Kochi unit of the NIA that swooped down around 3 a.m. at five residences in the district. More details are awaited about the people who have been taken into custody. On March 6, the ED sleuths conducted raids in three districts of the state and on March 20, they again raided the houses and offices of SDPI activists. Both these searches came after the arrest of the SDPIas National President M.K. Faizy in connection with an alleged money laundering case tied to the PFI. Faizy was taken into custody at Delhias Indira Gandhi International Airport on March 3 and was subsequently presented before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court at the Patiala House courts. The court then granted the ED six days of custodial interrogation. Investigators claimed that the SDPI received Rs 4.07 crore from the PFI through illegal hawala channels and allegedly funnelled the funds to its units nationwide. Founded in 2009, the SDPI has long been accused of having close ties with the PFI, which was banned by the Union government in 2022 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for its alleged involvement in anti-national activities. While the SDPI has consistently denied any direct association with the PFI, claiming to be an independent political organisation, Faizyas arrest and the fresh raids have once again put the partyas financial dealings under the scanner. Earlier, the ED had written to the Election Commission of India seeking details of the funding and expenditure of SDPI over the years as part of its crackdown. Mumbai, April 4 : Bollywood star Aamir Khan has expressed his sorrow over the passing of veteran actor Manoj Kumar, remembering the profound impact his films had on him. The 'PK' actor recalled the lessons he learned by watching Manoj Kumar's iconic performances, reflecting on the immense influence the late actor had on his own career and life. In an official statement, Aamir stated, "Manoj Kumar was not just an actor, and film-maker, he was an institution. I have learnt so much watching his films. His films were often based on important social themes which brought him really close to the common man. My heartfelt condolences to his family." Legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, affectionately known as 'Bharat Kumar' for his patriotic roles, passed away on Friday at the age of 87 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He had been hospitalized on February 21 due to a significant decline in his health. Tributes are pouring in from celebrities and eminent leaders alike, honoring the legacy of the late Manoj Kumar. B-town celebs such as Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, Farah Khan, and Farhan Akhtar, among others, took to social media to offer their condolences. In his heartfelt post, Ajay shared how Manoj Kumar gave his father his first break as an action director in the iconic film "Roti Kapda Aur Makaan," marking a significant milestone in Veeru Devgn's successful career in the film industry. The 'Singham' actor wrote, "Manoj Kumar ji was not just a cinematic icon - he was a personal milestone in my family's journey. He gave my father, Veeru Devgan, his very first break as an action director in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan. From there, their collaboration continued all the way to Kranti, creating moments that are now part of Indian cinema's golden history." Akshay Kumar spoke about the profound influence Manoj had on him, particularly in instilling a deep sense of love and pride for the country. The 'Kesari' actor reflected on how he grew up learning from Manoj Kumar that there is "no emotion like love and pride for our country," a value that the iconic actor beautifully portrayed through his patriotic films. Taking to his X handle, Akshay tweeted, "I grew up learning from him that there's no emotion like love and pride for our country. And if we actors won't take the lead in showing this emotion, who will? Such a fine person, and one of the biggest assets of our fraternity. RIP Manoj Sir. Om Shanti." Bengaluru, April 4 : A BJP worker, who was earlier arrested on charges of making comments about Congress MLA A.S. Ponnannahas, died by suicide on Friday. Ponnannahas serves as the Legal Advisor to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. It is alleged that the BJP worker was unable to bear the humiliation of his arrest. The incident occurred within the Hennur police station limits in Bengaluru in the early hours. The deceased has been identified as 35-year-old Vinay Somaiah. He reportedly ended his life at the BJP party office in HBR Layout. According to the police, Vinay had arrived at the office on Thursday night and stayed back. He posted a death note in a WhatsApp group before hanging himself. The deceased has claimed that he is taking the extreme step in the backdrop of a politically motivated FIR against him. Two months ago, Vinay Somaiah, a native of the Kodagu district, was arrested in connection with posting a light comment against MLA Ponnanna. Charges were filed against him as he was the admin of the WhatsApp group where the comment appeared. Based on a complaint by Congress worker Tennera Maina, the Madikeri police registered an FIR against three individuals, including Vinay. He was subsequently arrested and later released on bail. According to his family, the High Court had issued a stay on the investigation. In his final message, Vinay claimed that he had endured humiliation and torture for no fault of his own and that the incident had severely affected his dignity and honour. Sources stated that Vinay is survived by his parents, wife, and child. Vinay also worked as an operations manager in a private company. BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra has taken all the details of the case, and sources in the BJP stated that the party is planning a protest against the Congress MLA and CMas Legal Advisor Ponnanna in a day or two. More details are yet to emerge regarding the incident. Seoul, April 4 : South Korea's former President, Yoon Suk Yeol, who dramatically rose from a top prosecutor to the presidency in about three years, became the nation's second President to be formally removed from office, with his surprise martial law bid rattling the nation for months and deepening political polarisation. Earlier in the day, the Constitutional Court upheld the National Assembly's impeachment against Yoon over his failed imposition of martial law in December, immediately forcing him out of office and revoking his presidential benefits. With the ruling, Yoon, 64, follows in the footsteps of former President Park Geun-hye who was ousted in 2017 when the Constitutional Court upheld her impeachment over a corruption scandal. Before taking the nation's highest office, Yoon began his career as a prosecutor in 1994, rising through the ranks to lead an investigation team into Park's corruption scandal that ultimately led to her ouster and subsequent imprisonment. In 2019, he was appointed as the nation's top prosecutor under then South Korean President Moon Jae-in but clashed with the administration as he oversaw investigations into family members of former Justice Minister Cho Kuk. Amid mounting pressure from the Moon administration, Yoon stepped down from his post in 2021, only to enter politics shortly after and win the presidential election in 2022 as the candidate for the conservative People Power Party, Yonhap news agency reported. Yoon's term was riddled with conflict with an uncooperative National Assembly dominated by the main Opposition Democratic Party (DP). Yoon exercised his presidential veto power against 25 Bills passed by the National Assembly. Tensions with the DP appeared to reach an extreme in early December as the main Opposition introduced motions to impeach the country's top auditor and a senior prosecutor, with Yoon declaring martial law on December 3, which ultimately led to his downfall. With his ouster from office mid-term, Yoon will no longer receive presidential benefits nor be eligible to be buried in a national cemetery. South Korean Presidents who complete their single five-year terms are awarded special treatment, such as a pension worth 95 per cent of their salary, a staff of four people, support for medical treatment, an office and a commemorative presidential project. Under the national cemeteries management law, former Presidents are eligible for burial in national cemeteries but those removed from office due to impeachment or other disciplinary measures lose the benefit. Despite his ouster, Yoon will still continue to receive security protection as a former President but the level of protection will be significantly reduced from when he served in the office. Under the law on the treatment of former presidents, security protection is maintained even for those removed from office due to impeachment. Yoon and former First Lady Kim Keon Hee will continue to receive protection from the Presidential Security Service (PSS) for five years, which can be extended if the service's chief deems it necessary. Yoon's security detail is expected to focus on guarding his residence but the former President will not be provided with a security convoy when on the move. "In the impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye, security was focussed on guarding her residence," a PSS official told Yonhap News. The Constitutional Court's ruling came months after the National Assembly impeached Yoon on December 14 over his martial law declaration. Yoon served less than three years of his five-year term after taking office in May 2022. With his ouster, the country will hold a snap presidential election within 60 days. Yangon, April 4 : Mandalay in central Myanmar has been the hardest hit region after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the country, with 2,053 people killed, 2,691 others injured and 210 people still missing, state-run daily Myanma Alinn reported on Friday. Meanwhile, the country's capital Nay Pyi Taw recorded 511 deaths, 842 injuries, and nine missing, followed by Sagaing region with 471 deaths, 688 injuries and 2 missing, it added. As of Thursday, the death toll across the country from the earthquake has risen to 3,145, with 4,589 others injured and 221 missing, Xinhua news agency reported quoting the Myanmar Radio and Television. Meanwhile, Quad members Australia, India, Japan, and the United States collectively committed over $20 million in humanitarian assistance to support the relief efforts for the earthquake-devastated Myanmar. With its funding and bilateral efforts, the Quad grouping is facilitating the delivery of relief supplies, deploying emergency medical teams and supporting humanitarian partners working in Myanmar to provide care for those affected by the earthquake. In a joint statement issued by Quad partners on the Myanmar earthquake response, the governments of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States extended their deepest sympathies and condolences to the people of Myanmar and Thailand following the massive temblor, which caused significant loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction of infrastructure. The grouping also welcomed recent commitments to temporary, partial ceasefires and called on all parties to implement, extend and broaden these measures, to provide a safe and conducive environment to facilitate a timely delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance throughout Myanmar. "We welcome the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' statements of March 29 and 30, and the support provided by ASEAN and countries in the region to the communities affected," the statement added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar's military-led government, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, discussing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and extend support following the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar. India launched 'Operation Brahma', positioning itself as a first responder in line with its 'Neighbourhood First' and 'Act East' policies. Under the operation, India has dispatched tonnes of medical supplies and relief materials to Myanmar. PM Modi had earlier expressed deep sorrow over the disaster and conveyed India's condolences directly to Min Aung Hlaing, reaffirming India's commitment to assisting Myanmar during this crisis. Ahmedabad, April 4 : Gujarat's mango industry is making waves globally, with exports of the famed Kesar mango reaching 689.5 metric tonnes in 2023-24. Known for its unique aroma, saffron-coloured pulp, and rich sweetness, the GI-tagged Kesar mango is among India's most sought-after fruit varieties in both domestic and international markets. Mango cultivation in Gujarat dates back centuries, but it was in 1931 that the Kesar mango was first introduced in Junagadh's Gir region. The variety got its name from the saffron-like colour of its pulp, with the then Nawab of Junagadh famously declaring it "Kesar" (saffron) for its deep orange hue. Today, Gujarat has over 177,514 hectares of mango orchards, spread across districts like Valsad, Navsari, Gir-Somnath, Surat, and Kachchh. The state produced 1.08 million metric tonnes of mangoes in 2024, showing a steady rise from 960,000 metric tonnes in 2023, according to the Horticulture Department of Gujarat. Experts say Gujarat's climate and soil composition play a crucial role in shaping the quality of its mangoes. The state's sandy loam and black cotton soil, coupled with hot, dry summers and moderate rainfall, create the ideal conditions for mango trees. Unlike the Alphonso mango, which thrives in coastal regions, the Kesar mango's resilience to arid conditions makes it uniquely suited to Gujarat's environment. "The high temperature and soil nutrients enhance the mango's natural sugars, making it sweeter and more flavorful," said Dr Ramesh Patel, an agricultural scientist from Junagadh Agricultural University. Mango cultivation is a major contributor to Gujarat's agricultural economy. In 2021, the mango industry in the state generated over Rs 17 billion in revenue, with continued growth in both production and exports. Despite challenges such as climate fluctuations and pest attacks, mango farmers in Gujarat have adapted by using advanced farming techniques like drip irrigation, organic composting, and grafting methods to improve yield and quality. India is the world's largest mango producer, and Gujarat plays a key role in this dominance. In the past five years, Gujarat has exported over 2,500 metric tonnes of mangoes, with the UK, US, and Canada being the top destinations. To meet international quality standards, the Gujarat Agro Radiation Processing Facility in Bavla, Ahmedabad, ensures that exported mangoes undergo proper treatment. The facility has irradiated and certified over 210 metric tonnes of Kesar mangoes in the last two years, allowing smooth shipments to countries with strict import regulations. "Our mangoes have a strong demand in Europe and North America. With improved cold storage and export infrastructure, Gujarat can increase its share in global mango exports," said Prakash Mehta, an exporter based in Ahmedabad. While Gujarat's mango industry is thriving, it faces challenges like climate change, erratic monsoons, and market fluctuations. The state government is working on initiatives such as subsidized irrigation, improved logistics, and scientific research to enhance mango production. Additionally, collaborations with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Gujarat Agricultural Universities aim to introduce disease-resistant and climate-adaptive mango varieties. As peak summer arrives, Gujarat's mango orchards are gearing up for another strong season. With increasing global demand and a legacy rooted in history, Kesar mangoes from Gujarat continue to be a golden fruit -- both in taste and economic value. Madurai/Thiruvananthapuram, April 4 : The ongoing 24th CPI-M Party Congress in Madurai was jolted on Friday after the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) named Veena Vijayan, daughter of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, as an accused in a charge sheet. She is accused of receiving illegal payments amounting to Rs 2.70 crore from Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) in exchange for mining sanctions. Despite the development, the CPI-M leadership swiftly rallied behind Vijayan. Prakash Karat, the party's in-charge general secretary, stated before heading to the Party Congress venue, "If the agencies think they can target CM Vijayan by registering a case against a family member, the party will deal with it legally and politically." M.A. Baby, a CPI-M Politburo member and a frontrunner for the party's general secretary post, questioned the timing of the charge sheet. "The agency acted while our Party Congress is underway. This clearly indicates an agenda. The party will respond accordingly," he said. Kerala CPI-M state secretary M.V. Govindan also alleged political motives behind the SFIO's action. "This case involves two companies, and the State government has no role in it. Moreover, three Vigilance Courts had dismissed it, and even the Kerala High Court declined to permit a Vigilance probe last week. There is no evidence against CM Vijayan, and we will challenge this legally and politically," he asserted. Several senior CPI-M leaders, including state ministers P. Rajeeve and K.N. Balagopal, along with former minister K.K. Shailaja, voiced strong support for Vijayan. Meanwhile, both Congress and the BJP have announced statewide protests, demanding Vijayan's resignation. Veena Vijayan, named as the second accused in the charge sheet, faces allegations alongside CMRL, Exalogic (a firm linked to her), CMRL's MD Sasidharan Kartha, and others. This marks the first time in Kerala CPI-M's history that a Chief Minister's daughter has been implicated in such a case. The SFIO has submitted the charge sheet at a Special Economic Offenses Court in Kochi, and sources suggest the CPI-M is likely to challenge it legally. Now, attention turns to whether the SFIO will summon Veena Vijayan for questioning. Veena, who is married to Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas, has remained silent on the issue, as have CM Vijayan and Riyas. Kolkata, April 4 : Trinamool Congress and the West Bengal government are heading for bigger trouble as the Supreme Court will soon start hearing the matter related to the CBI probe into the Cabinet decision approving creation of supernumerary posts in schools. The extra posts in schools were allegedly created to accommodate those appointed illegally against payment of money. In April 2024, a three-judge Bench of the apex court headed by erstwhile Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, stayed an earlier order by the Calcutta High Court directing the CBI to undertake further investigations into the approval for supernumerary posts. In that order, the Calcutta High Court also observed that the CBI, if necessary, will undertake custodial interrogation of people involved in the matter. While the stay by the apex court in April 2024 came as an interim relief for the state Cabinet, the matter will again come up for hearing at the apex court on April 8. "From April 8, another matter will come up for hearing. That is regarding the Cabinet approval for the creation of supernumerary posts in schools, the CBI probe on which was earlier stayed by the apex court. "I have full faith in the Indian judicial system. I am sure that the court will punish those who had entertained such massive corruption," BJP President in West Bengal and Union Minister of state, Dr Sukanta Majumdar, told newspersons on Friday. He claimed that it was unimaginable that a state Cabinet approved the creation of extra posts to protect the interests of those who got jobs illegally by paying money. "When a state Cabinet can take such a decision, the head of the Cabinet cannot surely deny responsibility for it. Probably Mamata Banerjee will be the second Chief Minister of the country after Om Prakash Chautala who will be behind bars because of an education scam," Majumdar said. In fact, the Calcutta High Court, while ordering the CBI probe into the matter earlier, also questioned the sanctity of the decision approving the creation of supernumerary posts. Ever since information in the matter surfaced, the state government and the ruling party have come under scathing attacks from Opposition parties who claimed that the decision in the matter was not to accommodate genuine candidates but to protect the jobs of tainted ones. Bengaluru, April 4 : A BJP worker, who committed suicide on Friday after his arrest over comments on Karnataka Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna, had written in his final note that his death "should serve as a lesson against filing politically motivated FIRs". Ponnanna currently serves as the Legal Advisor to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. It is alleged that the BJP worker was unable to bear the humiliation following his arrest. The incident took place within the Hennur police station limits in Bengaluru in the early hours of Friday. The deceased has been identified as 35-year-old Vinay Somaiah. He reportedly ended his life at the BJP party office in HBR Layout. According to the police, Somaiah had arrived at the office on Thursday night and stayed there. He posted his death note in a WhatsApp group before hanging himself. In his note, Vinay Somaiah wrote, "My death should serve as a lesson against the filing of politically motivated FIRs. The police should apply their minds before registering complaints. Is it right to file an FIR just because one person makes a claim?" He continued, "Please spread my message on social media and let it help end the trend of FIRs being filed against innocent people. There's nothing I can say to my family -- I don't know how to express it to them." Anticipating public reaction, he added, "People will wonder what happened after all these days since the FIR was filed. I was waiting to meet my family. I'm ending my life while cherishing the good moments with them. If possible, forgive me." Somaiah explicitly named Congress worker Tennera Maina in his note, holding him responsible for his death. He also mentioned the names of the Congress MLAs, A.S. Ponnanna and Manthar Gowda. "I am Vinay Somaiah. For the past two months, I've been unable to control my mind. Tennera Maina, who played with my life, is directly responsible for my death. I was held responsible for a message in a WhatsApp group titled 'Kodagu Problems and Suggestions' -- a group I had been made admin of just five days earlier. This was done purely out of political hatred to portray me as a miscreant in society." He further wrote, "Tennera Maina ensured an FIR was registered and made the news go viral across Kodagu district, along with my photo. How can someone's personal photo be used on social media without permission, especially when the allegations are unproven? Imagine the trauma my family faced seeing that." Somaiah claimed he had not spoken to his mother since the FIR was filed until he was granted bail. He also referred to a previous suicide allegedly linked to Tennera Maina, stating, "I am not the first person to die because of Tennera Maina. Ask him about the suicide that happened when his wife was admitted to the hospital. That case also deserves investigation, and the guilty should be punished." He defended himself regarding the WhatsApp group post, saying, "There was no defamatory message. Political rivals used the situation to conspire against me. Even after securing bail, the police searched for me and questioned my friends and relatives." Somaiah alleged police harassment and political pressure. "A constable from Madikeri told me this was being done at the behest of MLA A.S. Ponnanna. MLA Ponnanna made false claims about me to one of my friends. If I had called him, let him show the call records." Clarifying his role in the WhatsApp group, he said, "It's true that I sent a message, but the objectionable content was posted by someone else. I had informed the person and even shared a screenshot. No FIR was filed against that person. So how justified is it to file an FIR against me?" He also mentioned another Congress MLA: "Manthar Gowda spoke to me in a harsh tone after I raised concerns about the Kushalnagar government hospital. He warned me not to post anything in groups without informing him first. I have proof of the calls he made." Somaiah further alleged online harassment by one Harish Poovaiah. "He keeps sharing our photos in Kodava community groups, calling us miscreants. Even after a High Court stay on the FIR, how is it justified to label us miscreants? I've heard they're planning to open a rowdy sheet against me. These people must be punished for justice to be served." In an emotional appeal to his party, he wrote, "I request the BJP family in Karnataka -- party leaders and workers -- to support my family. Even a donation of Rs 1 from each member could help secure my wife and child's future. Please help them and do not subject my mother, wife, daughter, or family to further suffering." He expressed gratitude to the BJP leaders who stood by him: "I thank former MP Pratap Simha, former Speaker K.G. Bopaiah, former MLA Appachu Ranjan, and others who supported me when the FIR was filed." The issue has now taken a political turn, with the BJP leaders strongly condemning the incident. Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and other BJP leaders visited the mortuary. Two months ago, Vinay Somaiah, a native of the Kodagu district, was arrested for allegedly posting a comment against MLA Ponnanna. Charges were filed against him as he was the administrator of the WhatsApp group where the post appeared. Based on a complaint by Congress worker Tennera Maina, the Madikeri police registered an FIR against three individuals, including Somaiah. He was later released on bail. According to his family, the High Court had issued a stay on the investigation. In his final message, Somaiah claimed that he had suffered humiliation and torture for no fault of his own, and the incident had deeply affected his dignity and honour. Somaiah is survived by his parents, wife, and a child. He also worked as an operations manager in a private company. Mumbai, April 4 : Actress Raveena Tandon opened up about her deep emotional connection with the late legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar. Reflecting on the special bond they shared, the 'Mohra' actress revealed that she had been profoundly influenced by his legacy and the lessons he imparted through his work. Upon hearing the sad news of the actor's passing, Raveena visited Manoj Kumar's residence to meet his son and family. Speaking to the media, she shared her special connection with the legendary actor and revealed that he had given her father his first break in the film industry. She shared how Manoj Kumar was not just a mentor to many in the industry but also like a father figure. Raveena also disclosed the final gift she intends to honor him with three cherished items that were dear to Manoj Kumar. These symbolic offerings include Mahakal's Rudraksha mala, Sai Baba's vibuti, and the Indian flag, which represent his deep love for India, spirituality, and patriotism. Raveena told the media, "I have known Manoj Kumar uncle for many years. In fact, he is the one who gave my dad a break in films. He was like a father to all of us, and today I have three of his favorite things that I will place on him. One is the Rudraksha mala of Mahakal, the second is Sai Baba's vibuti, and the third is the Indian flag. For me, he was my Bharat; he is and will always be my Bharat. The kind of inspirational films he made, no one else has made, and no one ever will. I remember every song of Manoj ji, and my most favourite is 'Jab Zero Diya Bharat.' He is our legend, and he will always be." Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar called the passing of Manoj Kumar the end of an era. He told IANS, "It's a huge loss. I believe this marks the end of an era. Manoj ji was a remarkable individual and filmmaker whose contribution to the Indian film industry was immense. The way he used to shoot his films and present the social fabricwhether it was through patriotism or song picturizationwas truly exceptional. His films always resonated with people. I've watched Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Purab Aur Paschim, and Krantithey always connected with audiences. He represented an era when the entire nation related to him..." Veteran actor Dharmendra also visited Manoj Kumar's residence to pay his respects. Imphal, April 4 : The Manipur Police arrested 11 militants belonging to various banned outfits and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition during the past 24 hours, officials said here on Friday. A police official said four militants were arrested from Imphal East district, five from Imphal West district and one each from Bishnupur and Thoubal districts. The arrested extremists belong to proscribed PREPAK, Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), United Peopleas Party of Kangleipak (UPPK) and Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) -- all are Manipuras valley-based outfits. The arrested militants were involved in abduction, forcible collection of money from traders, officials, and contractors, and were also issuing threat notices to people. Police officials are now interrogating the arrested extremists to know details of their activities. During the past two months, Manipur Police have arrested more than 60 militants of different outfits and recovered a huge cache of arms, ammunition, incriminating documents and looted items from their possession. One person identified as Nurul Islam alias Bapon (28) has been arrested from the Jiribam district. Four stolen two-wheelers were recovered from his possession. The police have recovered a large cache of arms and varied ammunition from the Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts. The recovered arms include self-loading rifles, 12 bore single barrel rifles, .303 rifles, and several pistols. Meanwhile, a defence spokesman said that in a series of joint operations, the Indian Army and other central and state forces during the past few days have recovered 24 weapons, several improvised explosive devices (IEDs), grenades, various ammunition and other war-like stores. He said the Army, Assam Rifles, CRPF, BSF, ITBP, and Manipur Police have recovered the weapons and ammunition from five districts -- Churachandpur, Imphal West, Kangpokpi, Imphal East and Bishnupur districts. The recovered arms include Bolt Action Rifles, Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs), Single Bore Barrel Rifles (SBBL) and pistols, ammunition and war-like stores. The recovered items have been handed over to the Manipur Police for further investigation and dispersal. These coordinated efforts by security forces highlight their unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security in Manipur, a defence release said. Islamabad, April 4 : In a growing political fissure, the ruling coalition partners of the Pakistani government, Pakistan Muslim League (N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), clashed with each other on the issue of the Indus River canal project. The PPP, on Thursday, expressed its concerns over the irrigation project. Meanwhile, the PML-N accused its coalition partner of habitually politicising water issues, local media reported. The Pakistan government has launched a $3.3 billion Green Pakistan Initiative that aims to develop six canals to irrigate 1.2 million acres of, what it claimed was a barren land in south Punjab. However, the Sindh province is protesting against the decision, fearing that it will lose its water share from the Indus River due to the construction of these canals, reports the leading Pakistani newspaper Dawn. "At a time when there was a shortage of 20 million acre-feet of water in the national system, the government was considering developing new command areas," PPP leader Chaudhry Manzoor said, addressing a press conference. He said that the government was annihilating small farmers of Punjab in the name of corporate farming through the canal project. Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari claimed that Sindh had a habit of politicising canal water. Bokhari suggested it would be more appropriate for the PPP to seek clarification from their leader, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, on this matter. Meanwhile, PPP leader and Sindh province Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Thursday said that the PPP won't allow the Centre to proceed with the construction without the province's consent. Criticising the PML-N, CM Shah reminded that the federal government relied on the PPP's support, cautioning that without his party, the PML-N government could collapse. "If the canal project proceeds without Sindh's consent, the PPP may withdraw its support," he warned while addressing a press conference. Activists, members of various political parties, civil society outfits, trade unions, and literary associations are up in arms against the government, which is constructing six canals on the Indus River. They have been continuously demanding that the government shelve the canal project. The protests, echoing demands to "let the water flow," have been held across the province as the citizens described such projects as "anti-people policies" and a "violation" of Sindh's rights. Mumbai, April 4 : American actor Tom Cruise made a spectacular return to CinemaCon, lighting up the stage at Caesars Palace's Colosseum in his first appearance since the pandemic. This time, he brought an exclusive sneak peek of "Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning," the thrilling conclusion to a franchise that has set the standard for action films over the past three decades. Helmed by Christopher McQuarrie, "Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning" serves as the thrilling conclusion to the franchise that began almost thirty years ago. The story picks up after Dead Reckoning, with Ethan Hunt confronting a rogue AI called The Entity. On stage, Cruise showered praise on McQuarrie, reminiscing about how he had secretly enlisted him to fine-tune "Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol" without the team's knowledge. "He's the hero of that film and put Skydance on the map," Tom Cruise remarked. He continued, "Because of Christopher McQuarrie, we delivered Top Gun: Maverick and two Mission: Impossible films during pandemic shutdowns and strikes. You're a modern-day Thalberg and an asset to every studio you serve." Cruise then honored McQuarrie with CinemaCon's Director of the Year Award. Reflecting on his journey, McQuarrie credited Cruise for believing in him when no one else would. "Tom, I'm here because of your vision and trust," he said, adding that Cruise pushed him beyond his own limits. As he introduced the trailer, Cruise expressed gratitude to former Mission: Impossible producer Paula Wagner, ex-Paramount chief Sherry Lansing, and all directors who contributed to the franchise, including Brian De Palma, Brad Bird, J.J. Abrams, and John Woo. The trailer of "Mission Impossible 8" itself promises high-octane action, with Henry Czerny's Kittridge ominously stating, "If we want to bring the world back to the brink, we have to deal with him." It features Cruise performing jaw-dropping stunts, including crawling on a flying biplane and jumping off an aircraft carrier. Nuclear missiles are also in play, raising the stakes like never before. The "Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning" stars Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Esai Morales, Pom Klementieff, and Angela Bassett. The film is slated to hit the theaters on May 23, 2025, in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telegu in 4DX and IMAX. Bangkok, April 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday raised the issue of safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, during his meeting with Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of the interim government in Bangladesh, held on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. This was the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since the ouster of the Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and formation of the interim government under the leadership of Yunus in the neighbouring country, last August. Prime Minister Modi urged that any rhetoric that vitiates the environment is best avoided, expressing his conviction that all issues of mutual interest between the two countries would continue to be addressed and resolved bilaterally through constructive discussions in the interest of the long standing bilateral relationship between the two countries. "Prime Minister also underlined India's concerns related to the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, and expressed his expectation that the government of Bangladesh would ensure their security, including by thoroughly investigating all cases of atrocities committed against them," said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during a media briefing held after the BIMSTEC Summit. During the meeting, PM Modi reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. He also underlined that India believes in a people-centric approach to the relationship and highlighted the cooperation between the two countries over a long period of time that has delivered tangible benefits to people of both countries. "In this spirit, he once again underlined to Prof Yunus India's desire to forge a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh based on spirit of pragmatism. Prime Minister also urged that any rhetoric that vitiates the environment is best avoided. "On the border, strict enforcement of the law and prevention of illegal border crossings, especially at night, is necessary for maintaining border security and stability. There are a number of mechanisms between the two countries and these mechanisms could meet as appropriate to review and take forward our ties," remarked Foreign Secretary Misri. Discussions were also held on Dhaka's request of Hasina's extradition and holding elections in Bangladesh. As PM Modi expressed his grave concern about attacks on minorities and hoped Bangladesh will act responsibly on the matter, he also shared his thoughts with Yunus on the matter of holding regular and inclusive elections which are important for any democracy and will ensure a stable Bangladesh in future. Earlier in the day, Bangladesh took over as the next Chair of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). Founded on June 6, 1997, the regional grouping has grown from its original four member states -- Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand -- to include Myanmar, Bhutan, and Nepal supporting regional collaboration on a variety of issues, including healthcare. "The PM congratulated Bangladesh on assuming the Chair of BIMSTEC and looked forward to the forum further advancing regional cooperation under the leadership of Bangladesh. The leaders also issued views on other issues and agreed to enhance consultations and cooperation to advance regional integration, including under the BIMSTEC framework," said Misri. Meanwhile, Chief Advisor's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told Bangladeshi media that Yunus presented a photograph to Prime Minister Modi during their bilateral meeting which was about PM Modi presenting a gold medal to Yunus at the 102nd Indian Science Congress that took place in Mumbai on January 3, 2015. "All issues of mutual interests were discussed. The meeting was very constructive, productive and fruitful," Alam said. -- IANS int/as New Delhi, April 4 : The Commerce Ministry is in active talks with Indian pharmaceutical exporters amid growing concerns over possible US tariffs on the sector, which was exempted in the first tranche of reciprocal tariffs by US President Donald Trump. The discussions between the government and pharma exporters began after Trump hinted at imposing "never-seen-before" tariffs on pharmaceutical imports (Thursday, US time). While marginal tariffs may not cause much disruption, steep duties could hurt the profit margins of Indian drugmakers. The United States is a key market for Indiaas pharmaceutical exports, with India supplying around 40 per cent of all generic drugs used in the US. Indian pharmaceutical exports to the US are worth nearly $9 billion annually. Any sharp increase in tariffs could not only affect Indian exporters but may also have a direct impact on American consumers, according to a report by NDTV Profit on Friday. Trump has introduced a new wave of tariffs targeting multiple sectors. These include a 25 per cent tariff on all imported cars and light-duty trucks, and a 10 per cent minimum tariff on other imported goods. India has been hit with a compound reciprocal tariff rate of 27 per cent. The government is reportedly assessing the situation closely and is working with exporters to understand the potential impact and explore ways to mitigate risks, the report mentioned. The latest Trump statement has left Indian pharma firms worried, many of which rely heavily on the US market for business. The stocks of Indian pharmaceutical companies were trading significantly lower during the day. Shares of Aurobindo Pharma, Laurus Labs, IPCA Laboratories, and Lupin fell by up to 8 per cent on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in the intra-day trading. In the previous trading session on April 3, shares of domestic pharmaceutical companies gained some relief, even as other sectors faced heavy selling pressure. This came after the White House excluded pharmaceutical products from the reciprocal tariffs. Seoul, April 4 : South Korean Acting Defense Minister Kim Seon-ho on Friday urged the military to establish a robust readiness posture against possible North Korean provocations following the Constitutional Court's ruling that ousted impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. Kim made the call as he convened a meeting of key commanders following the ruling, joined by senior officials from the defence ministry, as well as chiefs of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and armed services, the Defence Ministry said. "We need to establish a firm military readiness posture against North Korea while perceiving the current stern situation and ensuring the people's safety," he said, instructing the commanders to seamlessly conduct planned operations and training while adhering to political neutrality, Yonhap news agency reported. The acting minister also called for an overwhelming response posture, under a firm South Korea-US combined defense posture, against the possibility that the North may carry out an unexpected provocation following the ruling, according to the ministry. In a unanimous verdict delivered earlier in the day, the Constitutional Court upheld Yoon's impeachment over his failed martial law declaration on December 3, immediately forcing him out of office. Earlier in the day, senior aides to former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol offered to resign en masse, the presidential office said, after the Constitutional Court removed him from office over his failed martial law bid. Yoon's chief of staff, Chung Jin-suk, National Security Adviser Shin Won-sik and 13 other aides submitted their resignations to acting President Han Duck-soo after the court upheld Yoon's impeachment over his short-lived martial law declaration in a unanimous vote. In a statement after the ruling, Yoon said it was "an honour" to serve the country and he was sorry for not being able to meet people's expectations. The Presidential office was in a somber mood as senior aides watched the live broadcast of the ruling from their offices, while Yoon viewed it from his residence in central Seoul. Shortly after the announcement at 11:22 a.m., officials lowered the presidential flag displayed in front of the presidential office in Yongsan. The Constitutional Court's ruling came months after the National Assembly impeached Yoon on December 14 over his martial law declaration. Yoon served less than three years of his five-year term after taking office in May 2022. With his ouster, the country will hold a snap presidential election within 60 days. Bengaluru, April 4 : The Karnataka BJP has urged the state government to take immediate action against those allegedly responsible for the death of BJP worker Vinay Somaiah, who died by suicide after claiming harassment and humiliation by a Congress MLA and workers. The BJP has also warned that if the government fails to act, the party will launch a protest. BJP state President, B.Y. Vijayendra, in a statement issued on Friday, said, "Vinay Somaiah, one of our young workers, has died by suicide in Bengaluru. The reason was the harassment he faced from the local MLA and Congress party workers. He has left a death note in this regard. It is a painful and tragic incident." Vijayendra alleged that BJP workers have been increasingly targeted since the Congress came to power in Karnataka. "Our workers are continuously subjected to harassment. FIRs are being filed without valid reason, and our party members are being tortured," he claimed. He further added that Vinay Somaiah's death note indicated that the constant pressure led him to take the extreme step. "I urge Home Minister G. Parameshwara to look at this issue from a humanitarian angle and to investigate whether any MLAs or other individuals were involved in this matter, and to initiate strict action. "Justice must be served for the death of Vinay Somaiah no matter how powerful the individuals involved may be. If the state government fails to act, the BJP will organise a massive protest. Immediate steps must be taken." Former Assembly Speaker K.G. Bopaiah also reacted to the development, claiming that Congress workers had been preparing to open a rowdy sheet against Vinay Somaiah. "He was one of the active members of our social media state committee. He was creating awareness about local issues in the Madikeri district through a WhatsApp group. Even though he lived in Bengaluru, he remained connected to his roots in Somwarpet, his hometown," Bopaiah said. He went on to describe the chain of events that allegedly led to the police action. "There was an issue regarding a foul-smelling public toilet in the Napoklu region. A post was made in the group about it, and a photo of Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna was shared alongside it. This prompted Congress worker Thennira Maheena to file a police complaint." He further cited legal guidelines, stating, "The Supreme Court has clearly ruled that in cases where the alleged offence carries a punishment of less than seven years, the police should not make an immediate arrest after an FIR is filed. Instead, they are required to issue a notice under Section 35 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Act." "I had spoken to Vinay and encouraged him to stay strong," Bopaiah added. "But despite this, he ended his life. Congress MLAs A.S. Ponnanna, Manthar Gowda, and Congress worker Thennira Maheena are directly responsible for Vinay's death. All three must be arrested," he demanded. A 35-year-old BJP worker Vinay Somaiah, who was earlier arrested on charges of making comments about Ponnanna, died by suicide on Friday. Ponnanna serves as the Legal Advisor to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Vinay reportedly ended his life at the BJP party office in HBR Layout. According to the police, Vinay had arrived at the office on Thursday night and stayed back. He posted a death note in a WhatsApp group before hanging himself. In his final note, he urged that his death should serve as a lesson against the lodging of politically- motivated FIRs. Rewa, April 4 : The fragile peace in the Gadra village of Madhya Pradesh's Mauganj district suffered a new blow when three bodies were discovered in a house on Friday, deepening the turmoil already burdening local police authorities. The grim discovery came to light after neighbours reported a foul odour emanating from the residence of one Auseri Saket. Upon their arrival, police entered the premises and found the bodies hanging. Auseri Saket had been living alone with his two children following the demise of his wife. Authorities believe the bodies to be of Auseri and his children. Deputy Superintendent of Police Ankita Sulya stated, "Three bodies have been recovered from Auseri Saket's residence. While we suspect their identities, confirmation is still pending." She added that Saket's daughter had been reported missing before the incident. The police have to ascertain if the family of Saket had some connection with the March 15 police-public clash in the village. This tragedy occurred amidst heightened tensions in Gadra village, where Section 144 remains enforced following the March 15 clash, which resulted in a mob attacking a police team attempting to rescue a resident, Sunny Dwivedi, leading to the death of Assistant Sub-Inspector Ram Charan Gautam. Heavy police deployment has continued in the area since then. Sunny Dwivedi also died in the attack. On Friday, neighbours of Saket reported noticing the foul smell and immediately alerted authorities. A forensic team and additional personnel from Rewa were summoned to assist with the investigations. Preliminary police assessments suggest the deaths occurred roughly a week prior, given the state of decomposition. The incident has plunged the village into shock, and law enforcement officials continue to explore the possibility of foul play or deeper conspiracies behind the tragedy. Last Friday (March 28), multiple groups representing SC and ST (scheduled caste and scheduled tribe) communities and some social organisations took out a rally in Mauganj, submitting a memorandum to press their demands of a fair CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) trial in the villagers-police clash that occurred on March 15. Protesters had accused the police of targeting innocent tribals and mistreating women and disabled individuals. The police have so far filed charges against 38 individuals. Action has also been taken against the family of the main accused, Ashok Kol. The villagers are adamant on their demand of a fair probe in Ashok Kol's death who, according to police, had died in a road accident in contrast to the claims of villagers that he had been murdered. In response to the March 15 incident, Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav has already removed both the Superintendent of Police and the District Collector from their positions. Bengaluru, April 4 : Responding to allegations of a Congress MLA being responsible for the suicide of a BJP party worker in Bengaluru, Karnataka Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, on Friday stated that action would be taken once the police investigation is completed and the report is submitted. Vinay Somaiah, a 35-year-old BJP worker who was earlier arrested on charges of making comments about Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna, died by suicide on Friday. Ponnanna, who also serves as the Legal Advisor to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, "I neither instructed anyone to file a complaint against Vinay Somaiah, nor did I ask anyone to initiate legal action." Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, HM Parameshwara said the matter would be investigated thoroughly, and action would be taken based on the report submitted by the jurisdictional Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP). He added, "Often, what appears on social media and WhatsApp is not true. These claims will be verified, and if proven factual, action will be taken against those responsible." When asked about the role of Ponnanna, HM Parameshwara clarified that an investigation would be launched as soon as an FIR is registered in the case. "Whoever is found guilty will face appropriate legal action," he assured. Meanwhile, Ponnanna, speaking to the media, said he had not yet seen the death note. He confirmed that a complaint had indeed been lodged, but that it had happened four months ago. "I neither instructed anyone to file a complaint against Vinay Somaiah, nor did I ask anyone to initiate legal action," he said. Offering condolences, Ponnanna added, "Vinay had sent me a message about an issue related to a temple in Madikeri. Both groups were engaged in attacking each other on social media platforms." "Vinay had also sent me a poignant message saying I was unable to get a post about Goddess Cauvery deleted. Can an MLA get messages deleted from all WhatsApp groups?" he asked. Regarding the FIR, Ponnanna said, "Thennira Maheena got the FIR registered through the court. Is it illegal to do so? It should be handled legally. The incident occurred four months ago. The police did not file the case directly. Moreover, there are several complaints lodged against Thennira Maheena as well." Vinay Somaiah's arrest had been in connection with comments made in a WhatsApp group about MLA Ponnanna. Following his release on bail, he had reportedly struggled with the humiliation and pressure caused by the incident that allegedly led to his suicide. Vinay reportedly ended his life at the BJP party office in HBR Layout. According to the police, Vinay had arrived at the office on Thursday night and stayed back. He posted a death note in a WhatsApp group before hanging himself. New Delhi, April 4 : South Korea is looking to double or even triple its investments and business activities in India in the coming years, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to India, Lee Seong-ho, said on Friday. Speaking at the inauguration of Boditech Med Incas new manufacturing facility in Haryanaas Model Economic Township (MET City), the envoy highlighted the growing interest among Korean companies in Indiaas expanding industrial and healthcare ecosystem. "I see growing signs of Korean companies wanting to expand their business here. We hope to double or even triple Korean investment and business activity in India in the coming years," he said. "The Korea-India relationship is growing faster in India. Our government is committed to taking this relationship forward and ensuring its growth," he added. The event marked a major development in the medical devices sector as Boditech Med Inc, a global leader in Point-of-Care (POC) diagnostics, opened its Rs 50 crore facility in Haryana's Jhajjar, under its India arm, Boditech Med India Private Limited. Spread across 10,032 square metres, the new plant will cater not only to the Indian market but also to export products globally from this facility. Once fully operational, Boditech aims to capture over 5 per cent of Indiaas in vitro diagnostics (IVD) market and is eyeing more than Rs 650 crore in revenue from the Indian market alone. According to MET City, the arrival of Boditech Med has pushed the number of companies operating in the township to over 580 from 10 countries, including six from South Korea. The development aligns with the aMake in Indiaa and aAtmanirbhar Bharata initiatives, aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing and reducing import dependency. Boditech Medas Chairman and CEO, Eui Yul Choi, called India a strategic location for global manufacturing. "India's supportive policy environment and healthcare infrastructure make it the perfect place for our expansion. We are committed to contributing to Indiaas medical device ecosystem," he said. New Delhi, April 4 : Younger people are being increasingly prescribed antibiotics without proper assessment of complication risk, finds a study, warning that this may potentially lead to resistance. The study, led by epidemiologists at the University of Manchester, UK, showed that doctors are prescribing antibiotics for tens of thousands of patients with infections, with little or no consideration of prognosis and the risk of the infection worsening. The study based on an analysis of 15.7 million patient records, revealed that the most elderly patients in the sample were 31 per cent less likely than the youngest patients to receive an antibiotic for upper respiratory infections. This means "many younger people are being prescribed antibiotics, even though they are often fit enough to recover without them, potentially leading to resistance," said the team in the paper, published in the prestigious Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. Many older people may not be able to deal with infections without antibiotics are not receiving them, with the potential of complications and hospital admissions. Patients with combinations of diseases were 7 per cent less likely than people without major health problems to receive an antibiotic for upper respiratory infections. Further, the findings revealed that the probability of being prescribed antibiotics for a lower respiratory tract or urinary tract infection was unrelated to hospital admission risk. On the other hand, the probability of being prescribed an antibiotic for an upper respiratory tract infection was only weakly related to hospital admission risk. "Antibiotics are effective in treating bacterial infections, but they carry the risks of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and loss of effectiveness when used inappropriately. That is why AMR to antibiotics has been recognised as one of the biggest threats to global public health," said lead author Professor Tjeerd van Staa from The University of Manchester "The study finds that antibiotics for common infections are commonly not prescribed according to complication risk and that suggests there is plenty of scope to do more on reducing antibiotic prescribing," van Staa added. Dr. Ali Fahmi from the varsity urged "clinicians to focus on improving risk-based antibiotic prescribing for infections that are less severe and typically self-limiting". Mumbai, April 4 : Paying a heartfelt tribute to the legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, Kajol claimed that his movies were not just movies, but an 'emotion'. Saying that the iconic star would always be missed, Kajol wrote on her Insta stories, "His films weren't just movies, they were emotions, they were inspiration #Kranti #PattharKeSanam #PurabAurPaschim #RotiKapdaAurMakan to name a few. #ManojKumar, you will always be remembered." Previously, many members of the film fraternity such as Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Anupam Kher, Sunny Deol, and Manoj Bajpayee used social media to honor the legacy of Manoj Kumar. Mourning the demise of Manoj Kumar, Aamir Khan recalled learning by watching his films. In an official statement, Aamir said, "Manoj Kumar was not just an actor, and film-maker, he was an institution. I have learned so much watching his films. His films were often based on important social themes which brought him really close to the common man. My heartfelt condolences to his family." Salman Khan thanked late legend Manoj Kumar for his 'unforgettable films'. Taking to his X (earlier known as Twitter) handle, Salman penned a heartfelt tribute to the yesteryear stalwart that read, "Manoj Kumar Ji a true legend. Thank you for the unforgettable films and memories....." Reflecting on his unmatched influence in the industry, Sunny Deol shared a post on his IG saying, "#ManojKumar Sahab gave us characters that were both heroic and human. His films reflected love for the country and its people. An irreplaceable loss for the world of cinema. End of an Era. Om Shanti." Manoj Bajpayee penned on X, "With the loss of Manoj Kumar Sahab, we bid farewell to a pillar of Hindi cinema. His art celebrated the spirit of India like no other. Deepest condolences to his family and countless admirers. #ManojKumar." Additionally, Farah Khan, Rakul Preet Singh, Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Bhumi Pednekar, and Jackie Shroff also paid their last tribute to Manoj Kumar through social media. New Delhi, April 4 : Speaker Vijender Gupta will on Sunday preside over a spiritual and cultural event at the Delhi Legislative Assembly in honour of Lord Mahavir. Speaker Gupta said that the event titled 'Bhagwan Mahavir Gatha' will be organised, in association with the Jain community, on the Assembly premises to commemorate the 2550th Nirvana Mahotsav and the 2624th Janma Kalyanak of Lord Mahavir Swami. He said the objective of this event is to spread Lord Mahavir's timeless message of non-violence, truth, compassion, morality, and peace across society. The event will be blessed by the holy presence of Rashtra Sant Paramacharya Shri 108 Pragya Sagar Ji Muniraj, who will deliver a special discourse on the life, teachings, and principles of Lord Mahavir, said Gupta. Bhagwan Mahavir Nirvana Mahotsav Samiti and Sakal Jain Samaj Delhi will organise the grand celebration. A special Vatsalya Bhoj (community meal) has also been arranged following the event. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht and members of the Jain community are expected to participate in this spiritual and cultural gathering, said a statement. On Thursday, the Speaker announced plans to reduce the Assembly's carbon footprint by switching to 100 per cent solar energy. He announced a target of 100 days to augment the Assembly's solar power generation capacity from 200 KW to 600 KW. "Presently, there are two solar power plants with a capacity of 100 KW each. Our total energy requirement is around 600 KW, and hence, the installed capacity will be increased to fulfil our energy needs with solar power. The plants will be installed on the roofs and vacant open spaces," he said. The Speaker also announced plans for the Assembly to go paperless. "We have started the process of implementing National eVidhan Application (NeVA) in the Delhi Assembly," he said. He announced that besides modules for legislators and officials, the Assembly may also set up a media desk in each state legislature. "To begin with, we will set up 25 computers with internet and printing facility for the media personnel for faster dissemination of news," he said. Bangkok, April 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to place Buddhism at the heart of India's foreign policy were once visible on Friday as he visited Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, popularly known as Wat Pho, accompanied by his counterpart from Thailand, Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Prime Minister Modi paid homage to the Reclining Buddha and offered 'Sanghadana' to senior Buddhists monks. He also presented a replica of Ashokan Lion Capital to the shrine of Reclining Buddha. On the occasion, he recalled the strong and vibrant civilizational ties that exist between the two countries. PM Modi has in the past reflected on how the teachings of the Buddha, his disciples and preachers has kept Asia united through a common outlook towards life, divinity, and social values. Buddha Dhamma has also become an integral part of India's cultural identity, contributing to the country's robust foreign policy and effective diplomatic relationships During his meeting with the Thai PM on Thursday, the Prime Minister had offered to send Lord Buddha's Relics excavated from Gujarat to Thailand, for people to pay their respect and as a gesture to further deepen the close civilizational ties between both countries. Underlining the close cultural and religious connections between the two countries, Prime Minister Modi was presented a special edition of Buddhist holy scriptures Ti-Pitaka in Pali by Prime Minister Shinawatra on Thursday. Last year, the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha and two of his disciples had travelled from India to Thailand, and over four million people had paid their respects. PM Modi had hailed the ideals of Lord Buddha as millions of devotees in Thailand paid obeisance to the sacred relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Maha Moggallana in Bangkok from February 23 till March 3, 2024. In February, while addressing Samvad virtually, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the deep cultural ties between India and Thailand, which have existed for over 2000 years, and underscored the role of Asian traditions in fostering peace and harmony. Emphasising India and Thailand's cultural links, he said, "The Ramayan and Ramakien connect us, and our shared reverence for Bhagwan Buddha unites us. When India sent holy relics of Bhagwan Buddha to Thailand last year, a huge number of devotees paid their respects." "Our reverence for Bhagwan Buddha is reflected in the policies of the Indian government," he mentioned. India, a vibrant tapestry of diverse cultures and religious beliefs, has long been a heartland of Buddhism. To celebrate the rich heritage, India's Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), hosted the First Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS) on November 5-6 in New Delhi, last year. The summit aligned with PM Modi's 'Act East' and 'Neighborhood First' policy. It focused on collective, inclusive, and spiritual development in Asia. With this vision in mind, the summit delved into key themes that celebrate Buddhism's rich heritage and its contemporary relevance across the region. Even during his interaction with the leaders of different nations, PM Modi has always emphasised the teachings of peace and harmony of Lord Buddha. In 2023, reinforcing the deep-rooted Buddhist ties between India and Japan, PM Modi and former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visited the Bal Bodhi Tree at Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi. In 2022, PM Modi visited Lumbini in Nepal -- the visit coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima. PM Modi and his Nepali counterpart Sher Bahadur Deuba visited the Mayadevi temple, within which lies the birth place of Lord Buddha. At the temple, both leaders offered prayers as per Buddhist rituals, lit lamps before visiting the historical Ashoka Pillar that carries the first epigraphic evidence of Lumbini being the birthplace of Lord Buddha. They also watered the holy Bodhi tree that was brought as a gift by Prime Minister Modi during his visit to Nepal in 2014. In the same year, India sent four Holy Relics of Lord Buddha, known as the Kapilavastu Relics, to Mongolia for an 11-day exposition. It coincided with Mongolian Buddha Purnima celebrations. In 2019, PM Modi and Khaltmaagiin Battulga, President of Mongolia, jointly unveiled a statue of Lord Buddha and his two disciples, installed at the historic Gandan Tegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. In 2018, PM Modi visited the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Singapore, showcasing India's respect for Singaporeas Buddhist heritage and reinforcing cultural connections. In 2016 PM Modi visited the Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam. He offered prayers at the Sanctum Sanctorum, and was given a rousing reception by the monks. Noting that links between India and Vietnam were 2000 years old, the Prime Minister said that while some came to make war, India had come with the message of peace a" the message of Buddha, which has endured. He said the world must walk on the path of peace, which brings happiness and prosperity. The Prime Minister said Buddhism took the sea route from India to Vietnam, and therefore Vietnam has received the purest form of Buddhism. He said he has seen a glow on the faces of the monks who have been to India, and a great curiosity on the faces of those who wish to travel to India. In 2015, during his visit to Sri Lanka, PM Modi paid prayers at the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura, reinforcing age-old civilisational and cultural ties. With Buddhism continuing to be one of the common threads binding India and Sri Lanka together, PM Modi is scheduled to visit Anuradhapura again on Sunday along with the Lankan President. New Delhi, April 4 : In a significant achievement, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has disbursed financial assistance for education to all eligible applicants under Labour Welfare Schemes meant for wards of beedi, cine, and non-coal mine workers. A total of Rs 32.51 crore has been disbursed to 92,118 wards of beedi, cine and non-coal mine workers who applied for scholarship during the academic year 2024-25, according to an official statement issued on Friday. The education component of the Labour Welfare Scheme is implemented through the National Scholarship Portal and is administered by the Labour Welfare Organisation in 18 regions under the administrative control of the Directorate General of Labour Welfare, a department of the Ministry of Labour and Employment. Under the scheme, financial assistance of up to Rs 25,000 per student per annum is provided to eligible wards for education in school, college and professional courses. The benefits are disbursed directly to the accounts of the beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) using the Aadhaar Payment Bridge method, ensuring transparency and efficiency. This timely and efficient service delivery ensures that these children receive financial assistance when they need it most, the statement added. The Labour Ministry has also launched a National Career Service (NCS) as a aone-stop platforma for all career-related services, including jobs from private and government sectors, information on online & offline job fairs, skill/training programmes to help those looking for employment opportunities. From 1st January 2024 to 15th December 2024, over 1.89 crore vacancies were mobilised on the NCS portal, taking the total vacancies mobilised since its inception to 3.89 crores. This year, active vacancies count crossed a peak of 20 lakhs on a given day, with an average of 15 lakh job opportunities available on the NCS portal at any given time. On the NCS portal, 8,263 Job fairs were organised in which 43,874 employers participated, and 2,69,616 candidates were provisionally selected for jobs during the year. In respect of stakeholder registrations, 17,23,741 new employers and 1,38,45,887 new job seekers were registered on the NCS portal. The NCS portal has significantly enhanced its integration and collaboration efforts. It is now integrated with 30 States and UTs employment portals and several private job portals, enriching its database and broadening access to job opportunities. NCS has also been integrated with the MyBharat platform to provide a user-friendly experience for youth, institutions, and organisations. Through MyBharat, NCS can create events, and registered volunteers can participate. Model Career Centres (MCCs) are also connected, enabling Young Professionals to engage with volunteers for job fairs and outreach programmes. Bangkok, April 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reiterated India's commitment to cooperate with Bhutan in various sectors during his meeting with the Bhutanese counterpart Tshering Tobgay on the sidelines of the 6th BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok. "Had a great conversation with my good friend, PM Tobgay. India's friendship with Bhutan is robust. We are cooperating extensively in several sectors," PM Modi posted on X after the meeting. The meeting allowed both leaders to engage in discussions enhancing Indo-Bhutan friendship. Expressing his happiness, Tobgay also took to social media and posted, "Always a pleasure to meet my elder brother and mentor PM Narendra Modi ji. Discussed BIMSTEC, enhancing regional cooperation, and furthering Bhutan-India friendship". Both leaders last met in February, when Tobgay visited New Delhi to participate in the inaugural Leadership Conclave of the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL). PM Modi had assured New Delhi's commitment to deepening the unique and historical partnership between both countries. India and Bhutan enjoy exemplary ties of friendship and cooperation, based on trust, goodwill, and mutual understanding at all levels. The visit of the Prime Minister of Bhutan kept with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between India and Bhutan, a hallmark of the special partnership. PM Modi visited Bhutan last year, spotlighting close bonds of friendship and cooperation anchored in mutual trust, goodwill and understanding between both the nations. The joint statement 'Bharat and Bhutan: Together for Progress and Development' issued during the visit stated that common cultural links and geography connect India with Bhutan and the strong economic and financial ties bind both nations. "The enduring partnership between our two nations is anchored in our common values as well as our shared cultural and spiritual heritage. Bharat for Bhutan and Bhutan for Bharat is an abiding reality of the region, nurtured by the enlightened vision of successive Druk Gyalpos of Bhutan and the political leadership in India and Bhutan," the statement read. "Since Bhutan's First Five-Year Plan in 1961, India's development partnership with Bhutan has been empowering the people and ensuring development across sectors and regions. Our development partnership is a confluence of India's approach of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas' and the philosophy of Gross National Happiness in Bhutan," the statement further added. Pune, April 4 : The Maharashtra government has issued a notice to Ola Electric Mobility Limited, asking the company to explain why some of its stores in the state are operating without valid trade certificates. According to the notice from the Transport Commissioner's Office, several Ola Electric showrooms and service centres in Maharashtra are being run without the required documents. The notice also accuses the company of illegally selling vehicles through these unauthorised outlets. As per a NDTV Profit report, the notice, dated March 31, gives the company three days to respond. "This is a very serious matter, and you are requested to provide an explanation within three days as to why action should not be taken against your company for this act," the notice said. It was reportedly signed by Joint Transport Commissioner Ravi Gaikwad. However, as of now, Ola Electric has not responded officially on the issue. The notice follows an earlier inspection drive initiated by the state transport authority. On March 21, NDTV Profit had reported that Maharashtra's Transport Commissioner had instructed all Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) to carry out special checks at Ola Electric stores. These inspections reportedly revealed that many outlets were functioning without the necessary trade certificates. As per the Central Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, every vehicle distributor or manufacturer must obtain a trade certificate to register and sell vehicles. In addition, Rule 35 of the same law states that each showroom or dealership must have a separate certificate from the concerned registration authority. The shares of the electric two-wheeler manufacturer closed lower by Rs 1.42 or 2.63 per cent to close the intra-day trade at Rs 52.62 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). Earlier this week, the company saw a sharp drop in its electric two-wheeler sales in March 2025, selling 23,430 units -- a steep 56 per cent decline compared to the same month last year. The company said on April 1 that the fall was mainly due to disruptions caused by its recent shift to handling vehicle registrations in-house, a process that began in February. New Delhi, April 4 : The Centre on Friday informed the Parliament that it has allocated more than Rs 230 crore for the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) in the last three years. Launched on October 10, 2022, NTMHP functions as the digital arm of the District Mental Health Programme to provide universal access to equitable, accessible, affordable, and quality mental health care. The Tele-MANAS Cells, under NTMHP, which provides 24x7 tele-mental health counselling services via a toll-free number (14416) set up across the country, have so far handled more than 20,05,000 calls, said Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav. Till April 1, "36 States/ UTs have set up 53 Tele-MANAS Cells. Tele-MANAS services are available in 20 languages based on language opted by States. More than 20,05,000 calls have been handled on the helpline number," said Jadhav in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. "Over Rs. 230 crore have been allocated by the government for NTMHP in last three years," he added. The MoS noted that NTMHP aims to exponentially scale up the reach of mental health services across India by setting up a 24x7 tele-mental health facility in each State and UT. The programme also aims to implement a full-fledged mental health service network that, in addition to counselling, provides integrated medical and psychosocial interventions to vulnerable groups. Towards this, a dedicated Tele-MANAS Cell has been established at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune to extend tele-mental health assistance and support to all Armed Forces service personnel and their dependents. Further, Jadhav noted that the Government is also taking steps to strengthen mental healthcare services at the primary healthcare level. "More than 1.75 lakh Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) have been upgraded to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs," he said. Mental health services have also been added to the package of services under Comprehensive Primary Health Care provided at these Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. New Delhi, April 4 : The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday approved the Vibrant Villages Programme-II (VVP-II) as a Central Sector Scheme for developing villages located along the country's international borders to enhance national security. With a total outlay of Rs 6,839 crore, the programme will be implemented in select strategic villages in the States and UTs of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir (UT), Ladakh (UT), Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal till the financial year 2028-29. The programme, with 100 per cent funding from the Centre, would help in the comprehensive development of villages located in the blocks abutting international land borders (ILBs), other than the Northern border already covered under VVP-I, according to an official statement. The objective of the programme is to create better living conditions and adequate livelihood opportunities to ensure prosperous and safe borders, control trans-border crime and assimilate the border population with the nation and inculcate them "as eyes and ears of the border guarding forces", crucial for internal security, the statement explained. The programme will provide funds for infrastructure development within the village or a cluster of villages, value chain development (through cooperatives, SHGs, etc), border specific outreach activity, education infrastructure like SMART classes, development of tourism circuits and works/projects to create diverse and sustainable livelihood opportunities in the border areas, the statement said. The interventions would be border-specific, state and village-specific, based on Village Action Plans prepared in a collaborative approach. All-weather road connectivity for these villages shall be undertaken under the already approved Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana-IV under the Ministry of Rural Development. A high-powered committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary shall consider suitable relaxations in schematic guidelines for effective implementation of schemes in the border areas. The programme aims to achieve saturation in existing individual and household-level welfare schemes in the identified villages under convergence as per scheme norms. The programme also aims to saturate all villages in such blocks in four thematic areas, namely all-weather road connectivity, telecom connectivity, television connectivity and electrification through convergence under existing scheme norms. The programme emphasises enhancing vibrancy in these villages by organising activities including fairs and festivals, awareness camps, celebration of National days, regular visits by Ministers, senior Government officers from Central and State/UT Government and night stays in such villages. This would boost the tourism potential and promote the local culture and heritage of these villages. "Technology would be leveraged and information databases like PM Gati Shakti will be used for effective implementation of the project," the statement added. Beijing, April 4 : Triggering a full-blown trade war, China will impose additional 34 per cent tariffs on all products imported from the United States starting from April 10, the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council announced on Friday. The announcement follows the U.S. decision to impose "reciprocal tariffs" on Chinese exports to the United States, a move that the commission said does not conform to international trade rules, seriously undermines China's legitimate rights and interests, and represents a typical act of unilateral bullying, reports Xinhua news agency. China's Ministry of Commerce said it was adding 11 American companies to its list of "unreliable entities," which bars them from doing business in China or with Chinese companies. The ministry also imposed stringent limits on exports of certain rare earth elements, including gadolinium and yttrium, which are mined almost exclusively in China and are used in everything from electric cars to smart bombs. US President Donald Trump has announced 54 per cent reciprocal tariffs on China, which include previous duties already in place. That makes China one of the hardest-hit countries on the tariff list. Global investment bank JP Morgan has said it now sees a 60 per cent chance of the global economy entering recession by 2025 end, up from 40 per cent previously. According to analysts, the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the US will undoubtedly hit all countries but Indian exporters may emerge stronger as rivals, mainly, China faces steeper duties as high as 65 per cent and even beyond. For India, the additional 27 per cent tariff places it in the lower half of targeted countries, creating opportunities beyond traditional export sectors like engineering goods, electronics, gems and jewellery, textiles, and apparel. The tariffs could also shift competitiveness in India's favour in sectors where other regional exporters are more severely impacted. To maximise this advantage, India must not only negotiate with the US to maintain market access but also collaborate with FTA partners in Asia to restructure supply chains and seize new opportunities," according to experts. Chennai, April 4 : Actor Yogi Babu, who turned a lead actor with director Madonne Ashwin's entertaining social drama 'Mandela', has now expressed his gratitude to the entire team that made the film on a day it completed five years. Taking to his X timeline, Yogi Babu posted pictures of himself with director Madonne Ashwin and their National Awards and wrote, ""Thank you producer #Ynot sasi sir. Thank you thambi @madonneashwin dir. Entire team. @vidhu_ayyanna @sheelaActress @iamkannaravi #nationalaward #mandela100days #mandelamovie" He then issued a statement in which he thanked the entire team of the film. In his statement, which was titled, 'On the fifth anniversary of Mandela', he said, "Today marks five years since the release of 'Mandela' a film that made a significant impact on a national level. As an actor, this film was a major turning point in my career." Pointing out that 'Mandela' managed to deliver a powerful social commentary and present truth, wrapped in humour, Yogi Babu said the film "continues to live on joyfully in the hearts of the people." Expressing his gratitude for the film to the team, he said, "I extend my heartfelt thanks to my dear producer S Sashikanth of YNOT Studios and Balaji Mohan for making this possible." He also thanked the director of the film Madonne Ashwin, who he called a brother. "I sincerely wish you reach even greater heights with your writing and direction," he told Madonne Ashwin. The actor also gave a big shout-out to his beloved team. He thanked cinematographer Vidhu Ayyanna for the film's beautiful visuals, editor Philomin Raj and music director Bharath Sankar among others. The actor also thanked his co-stars Sheela, Kanna Ravi, Sangili Murugan, and GM Sundar for their contributions to the film. "Your outstanding contributions have kept this film alive and thriving," he wrote. The actor concluded the statement by saying, "I will always cherish being part of such a memorable and meaningful film that continues to resonate with audiences time and again." 'Mandela', which came in for widespread critical acclaim, won two National Awards. The film was shortlisted as one of the 14 Indian films to be nominated for the Best Foreign Film at the 94th Academy Awards. Mumbai, April 4 : Kriti Sanon loves to share every update of her personal and professional life with her InstaFam. Giving a sneak peek into her March diaries, Kriti shared how she 'March-ed into April'. One of the photos in her post was of her chilling at her home, followed by an image of enjoying a wholesome home-cooked meal. We could also see her having a blast with 'Tere Ishk Mein' director Anand L Rai on the sets of her next. From some self-care during downtime at home to traveling, to satisfying her sweet tooth, to creating some fond memories with friends, Kriti's March looked like a perfect balance of work and fun. Kriti is presently busy shooting for 'Tere Ishk Mein'. She will be seen alongside Southern heartthrob Dhanush for the first time in her next. Her Insta feed is full of glimpses from the set of the drama. Presented by Gulshan Kumar, in collaboration with T-Series, and Colour Yellow, the much-awaited project brings back the dynamic trio of Aanand L Rai, Dhanush, and A.R. Rahman for another cinematic masterpiece. The story of the film has been penned by Himanshu Sharma in association with Neeraj Yadav. Aanand L Rai, Himanshu Sharma, Bhushan Kumar, and Krishan Kumar have jointly produced the project. 'Tere Ishk Mein' is a spiritual successor to the 2013 film 'Raanjhanaa', delving deeper into themes of unrequited love, and emotional conflict. The captivating teaser of 'Tere Ishk Mein' proclaimed, "Pichli baar to Kundan tha, maan gaya, par iss bar Shankar ko kaise rokoge? (Last time it was Kundan, he accepted it, but how will you stop Shankar this time?)." The video had Dhanush sitting on a wall on fire that read, "From the world of Raanjhanaa." Additionally, Kriti's first look from the film as Mukti also grabbed a lot of eyeballs. She was seen walking through a chaotic, warlike scene, looking all stressed and broken. She poured petrol on herself and held a lighter, preparing to set herself on fire. 'Tere Ishk Mein' is expected to reach the cinema halls on November 28, in both Hindi and Tamil. New Delhi, April 4 : The Congress party on Friday launched a fellowship programme named after former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, with an objective to 'bring some of the nation's brightest minds into politics.' The Leader of Opposition (LoP), Rahul Gandhi, took to social media to unveil the party's new initiative, under which 50 mid-career professionals will be selected every year and mentored by top leadership of the Congress party to make a meaningful and decisive impact in shaping the country's future. The Congress MP also urged the mid-career professionals to start enrolling themselves for the programme, stating, "It's a call to step into public life and help build a progressive and inclusive India." Dr Manmohan Singh Fellows Programme, as stated on the portal, stipulates that the Fellowship is not an entry-level internship but a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work closely with the top leadership of the Indian National Congress. "If you have at least 10 years of professional experience and are ready to make a meaningful impact, this is your call to step into leadership," it says. The professionals willing to join Dr Manmohan Singh Fellowship Programme must have passion and zeal for public service and also harbour a strong desire to bring positive societal change. As the fellowship programme is a full-time commitment to public service, the individual will have to be ready for long hours of toiling and should have a solutions-driven mindset. Earlier in the day, Congress media and publicity head Pawan Khera, Chairman of Professionals' Congress Praveen Chakravarty and SC dept coordinator K Raju briefed the media about the fellowship programme, explaining how it will 'nurture and prepare' leaders of tomorrow. "The shortlisted fellows will be given intense training and given challenging assignments in the party under the guidance of seasoned Congress leaders," said Chakravarty. "This is a serious programme for serious people with serious intent for public service," he added. He also said that the world was going through a turbulent phase, and India must set its foot in the right direction to secure its interests. "President Trump has announced harsh tariffs on all countries, including India. If we don't react properly, this will lead to huge job losses and unemployment in the country," he said. He said that the Fellowship programme is meant to address such challenges and will draw thoughts from Dr Singh's governing principles on how to tide over such a crisis, recalling how the former PM suggested the formation of a professionals group to think over the geopolitical issues and bring lasting solutions. Bangkok, April 4 : India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' and 'Act East' policies, which align with its broader Indo-Pacific vision, has been reaffirmed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ongoing visit to Bangkok for the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit that also brought together other leaders of the grouping, including from Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Bangladesh. Prime Minister Modi's various initiatives, including the 'Act East' policy, Vision SAGAR (Security and growth for All in the Region), 'Neighbourhood First' policy, 'Think West' policy and 'Connect Central Asia' policy continue to guide New Delhi's approach to the neighbourhood and beyond while strengthening historical and civilizational ties at the same time. Launched in 1992, the 'Look East' policy focused largely on economic ties with the Southeast Asia region. However, with the changing dynamics of the world, PM Modi in 2014, introduced a new vigour in India's foreign policy and transformed it into a more dynamic 'Act East' policy emphasising stronger action and outcomes. Analysts reckon that PM Modi's foreign policy is marked by dynamism and action, which is symbolised perfectly through the implementation of the 'Act East' policy. Over the past 10 years, the 'Act East' policy has positioned India as an active and influential player in Southeast Asia. While the 'Look East' policy primarily focused on trade, PM Modi's initiatives have expanded it into a multidimensional strategy that includes diplomacy, defence, connectivity, and culture. Prime Minister Modi's frequent engagements, high-profile summits, and strategic partnerships have also strengthened India's presence in the Indo-Pacific, making India not just a participant but a leader in regional affairs. This shift was not just symbolic but marked a significant strategic approach that emphasised deeper diplomatic engagement, stronger trade partnerships, enhanced security cooperation, and cultural exchanges with Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. The Act East Policy placed India as an active stakeholder in regional affairs. PM Modi himself has undertaken multiple visits to countries in India's extended neighbourhood to strengthen the ties further. It includes multiple trips to Singapore (2015, 2018, 2024) which have strengthened economic and fintech collaboration and three visits to Indonesia (2018, 2022, 2023) where India expanded its maritime security cooperation. In 2017, PM Modi became the first Prime Minister to visit the Philippines in 36 years, reinforcing India's role in ASEAN security and trade. His historic visit to Brunei in 2024 marked the first-ever trip by an Indian PM to the country, symbolising India's growing diplomatic outreach. In yet another historic moment, PM Modi invited all ASEAN leaders to India's Republic Day as chief guests to mark 25 years of ASEAN-India Dialogue Partnership. Additionally, he has also undertaken visits to Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, pushing forward India's strategic and economic agenda in the region. Under PM Modi's leadership, India's trade with ASEAN has nearly doubled, growing from USD 71 billion in 2016-17 to over USD 130 billion by 2024. India is now ASEAN's seventh largest trading partner while ASEAN is India's fourth largest trading partner. To enhance economic connectivity, the Modi government has pushed for infrastructure projects such Indiaa"Myanmara"Thailand Trilateral Highway to boost India-ASEAN trade and movement. Direct flight connectivity has also improved significantly, with India now directly connected to several ASEAN countries, facilitating business, tourism, and cultural exchanges. Apart from ASEAN, PM Modi's push for infra project like Agartala-Akhaura railway project which is the first railway project between the North Eastern States and Bangladesh has provided additional connectivity between India and Bangladesh & encouraged trade between the two nations. The strategic and defence dimension of the 'Act East' policy has been another crucial area of focus. India has actively engaged in maritime security cooperation, particularly with countries such as the Philippines and Vietnam. One of the biggest milestones under the 'Act East' policy has been the sale of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines, marking India's entry as a serious defence supplier in the region. Additionally, India has signed military logistics agreements with Vietnam, expanding its presence in the Indo-Pacific security framework. The Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), launched in 2019, was a major step toward ensuring maritime stability and freedom of navigation in the region. Further reinforcing India's strategic presence, India and ASEAN held their first-ever joint maritime exercise in 2023, a move aimed at countering security challenges in the South China Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific. Beyond trade and security, cultural and people-to-people ties have played an essential role in strengthening India's relationship with Southeast Asia. PM Modi's 'Act East' policy has revitalised India's shared Buddhist heritage with Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Indonesia, fostering deeper spiritual and historical connections. Over 300 ASEAN students have received scholarships to Nalanda University and the Modi government has facilitated educational and cultural exchanges to strengthen ties. The growing influence of 'International Yoga Day' in Southeast Asia further highlights how cultural diplomacy has become an integral part of India's engagement under the 'Act East' policy. Additionally, Singapore became the first country to establish fintech connectivity with India, paving the way for digital and economic collaboration across the ASEAN region. India extended medical assistance, including medicines and supplies, to ASEAN countries during the Covid-19 pandemic. Emerging as the 'first responder', India provided $4 billion in assistance to Sri Lanka between 2022-23, playing a key role in securing the island nation's $2.9 billion IMF bailout. New Delhi also swiftly launched 'Operation Maitri', deploying military and rescue teams for relief efforts during the 2015 earthquake in Nepal. In 2018, India sent 1.7 lakh tonnes of wheat and 2,000 tonnes of Chana Dal to help combat severe drought in Afghanistan. Hyderabad, April 4 : The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) on Friday requested the Supreme Court to take cognisance of the death of a deer after it was attacked by stray dogs following tree felling in Kancha Gachibowli near Hyderabad Central University. BRS Working President, K.T. Rama Rao, posted on X about the death of the deer and blamed the destruction of the Kancha Gachibowli mini forest by the Telangana government. "There is blood on your hands," Rama Rao told top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. "This hapless deer, whose abode was destroyed by a greedy Congress government, was mauled by a pack of dogs this morning. Revanth Reddy's mindless destruction of the Kancha Gachibowli mini forest has led to the loss of precious flora and fauna," he posted. He requested the Supreme Court to take cognisance of 'this blatant murder' of wildlife. "Due to the mindless felling of trees, this is the tragic situation in Kancha Gachibowli. A deer, which once roamed freely in its natural habitat, was exposed to the brutality of the outside world. It was viciously attacked by stray dogs, severely injured, and had to be rescued and sent for medical care. Tragically, the deer has now been declared DEAD," reads an earlier post on the BRS' official X handle. "We request the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India to take cognisance of this incident and ensure that no further damage is done to this fragile ecosystem," it added. The Supreme Court on Thursday took a serious view of tree-felling on 400 acres at Kancha Gachibowli and directed the Telangana government to stop all developmental activities on the site till further orders. A Bench of Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice A.G. Masih asked the Telangana Chief Secretary what was the urgency to undertake development activity, including cutting of trees. The apex court heard the matter after the Registrar of the Telangana High Court submitted a report on its order. The Registrar stated in his report that about 100 acres of land had been cleared. Observing that it is a serious matter, the Bench wanted to know if the authorities had the required permission. "You cannot take the law into your own hands," the Bench told the state government. The court asked the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to visit the site and submit a report by April 16. The court also asked the state government to file an affidavit and posted the matter for further hearing on April 16. The Supreme Court's stay came after nearly a week-long protest by students, environmental activists and Opposition parties over the tree felling. They have been opposing the state government's plan to develop the land and auction it for setting up IT parks. Patna, April 4 : In a major operation against Maoists, the Gaya police, in coordination with Bihar Police's Special Task Force (STF), arrested seven Maoist operatives since March 30, recovering a huge cache of arms and ammunition from their possession, some of which were previously looted from the police. Gaya SSP Anand Kumar stated that the crackdown is part of a continuous drive to dismantle Maoist networks in the district. On April 3, the district police received Intelligence about Maoist activities in Gangti Bazar under the jurisdiction of the Imamganj police station area. Accordingly, a special team, led by SP, Gaya City, and comprising Bihar STF and district police, was dispatched to raid the location. "Upon arrival, a suspect attempted to flee but was immediately chased down and arrested. The accused is identified as Rupesh Paswan, a native of Qadirganj village under Imamganj Police Station jurisdiction. During interrogation, Paswan disclosed the location of hidden arms and ammunition and provided details about two accomplices," Kumar said. "Subsequently, we arrested Uday Kumar Yadav and Bablu Kumar. Both were nabbed from Tilathi Hill under Imamganj police station, Chhakkarbandha area, Gaya district. All three have been booked under relevant sections at Imamganj police station," Kumar said. The joint team recovered three SLR rifles, 3006 semi-automatic rifles one of which was looted from a private person, 527 live cartridges of different bores, one can bomb weighing about 0.5 kg, 6 detonators with wires, 7 SLR magazines, 2 INSAS rifle magazines, 4 SLR chargers, 2 spotted body pouches, 1 Walkie Talkie and 1 multi-meter, from their possession. Earlier on March 30, Maoist zonal commander Rajesh Yadav alias Bihad Yadav was arrested from the Raigarh district of Maharashtra. On April 1, Vikram Kumar alias Kailu Yadav and Lala Sharma alias Lal Sharma were arrested from Gaya, and Brajesh Kumar Singh was arrested on April 2. "This operation is part of our ongoing efforts to break the backbone of Naxal (Naoist) activity in Gaya. We are committed to ensuring law and order in the region and will continue to track down such elements," Kumar said. The crackdown highlights Bihar STF and Gaya police's intensified focus on dismantling Naxal networks in the Imamganj-Chhakkarbandha belt, a historically Maoist-affected region. Patna, April 4 : The passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill from parliament has triggered a political stir in Bihar, with several Muslim leaders from the Janata Dal (United) resigning in protest. However, JDU's National General Secretary Rajiv Ranjan has dismissed the resignations, calling the dissenters insignificant to the party. Patna, April 4 (IANS) The passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill from parliament has triggered a political stir in Bihar, with several Muslim leaders from the Janata Dal (United) resigning in protest. However, JDUas National General Secretary Rajiv Ranjan has dismissed the resignations, calling the dissenters insignificant to the party. Speaking to IANS, Ranjan said, "Who are these people? They were never part of the partyas organizational structure. These are fake people." He downplayed any internal opposition to the bill, asserting that JDU remains united. aI donat think this is even worth discussing," he said. Ranjan reaffirmed JDUas support for the Waqf Amendment Bill. He said the partyas suggestions were incorporated during the JPC deliberations. "Whatever inputs we provided were included. Now, it is set to become the law of the country. This is undoubtedly good news for the Muslim community." JDU MLA Gopal Mandal also defended Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, asserting that the bill is in the best interests of Muslims. "No Muslim is angry with Nitish Kumar. He has done more for them than Lalu Prasad ever did. Some people are trying to defame him with wrong intentions," Mandal said. Rejecting concerns about JDU losing Muslim support, Mandal insisted the resignations would have no impact. "The Chief Minister will address those resigning. This bill is pro-Muslim, and everything will be fine. JDU will not lose any assembly seats because of it." Meanwhile, posters in Patna have been put up labeling Nitish Kumar as a aGirgita (chameleon). Responding to this, Mandal praised Kumaras governance, saying, "Before 2005, Bihar was in shambles -- no roads, people fleeing in fear. Nitish Kumar transformed everything, from education to development." Dismissing speculation about a potential alliance between the RJD and JDU, Mandal said, "Nitish Kumar will continue as Chief Minister. No leader in Bihar is equal to him, and even after him, no one will be able to take his place." On the possibility of Nitish Kumaras son, Nishant Kumar, entering politics, Mandal offered a cryptic remark: "Nishant Kumar is coming -- youave seen the signs. First, the heroas shoes are shown, then the pajama, then the watch -- he wonat enter in a hurry." He also dismissed concerns about Kumaras health, asserting that he remains fit and the strongest leader in Bihar politics. Amaravati, April 4 : A lady pharmacist, who attempted suicide unable to bear harassment by a hospital executive in Andhra Pradesh's Rajahmundry town on March 23, succumbed at a hospital on Friday. Amaravati, April 4 (IANS) A lady pharmacist, who attempted suicide unable to bear harassment by a hospital executive in Andhra Pradeshas Rajahmundry town on March 23, succumbed at a hospital on Friday. Nallapu Naganjali, who was on a ventilator for the last 12 days, was declared dead by doctors at KIMS Bollineni Hospital in Rajahmundry. Naganjali, a Pharm-D student who was doing an internship at the same hospital, had self-administered an anaesthesia injection on March 23. She was a native of Routhu Gudem village in Eluru district. Police later arrested Duvvada Madhav Rao Deepak, Assistant General Manager of the hospital, in the suicide case. He was allegedly harassing the pharmacist. According to the police, Naganjali and Deepak were in a relationship. The woman had told her family that Deepak sexually exploited her in the name of love and threatened her not to reveal this to anybody. On a complaint by Naganjalias father, police registered a case against Deepak and arrested him. Following Naganjalias death, student groups staged a protest demanding justice for the family. Meanwhile, Rajhmundry City MLA Adireddy Vasu consoled the family of Naganjali and assured them that he would make all efforts to see that the guilty get the harshest punishment. The MLA said he would request Home Minister V. Anita and Education Minister Nare Lokesh to provide Rs 2 lakh financial assistance to the family. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has expressed his condolences to the family of Naganjali. He described the incident as "unfortunate" and assured the family that the state government would stand by them. The actor-politician said that legal action is being pursued against the individual responsible for the student's death. The police have already apprehended the Assistant General Manager of the hospital, Deepak, based on a note left by Naganjali, which is under investigation. The Deputy CM emphasised that the government is committed to taking necessary measures to safeguard students and young women in the state, ensuring that such incidents do not recur. New Delhi, April 4 : A minor girl's rapist from Kerala and an extortionist from Rajasthan are among three fugitives brought back from the UAE by the CBI to pave the way for their trial in the country, an official said on Friday The CBI has managed to bring back the three - Suhail Basheer, Tofik Najir Khan and Aaditya Jain - through Interpol channels, he said. The three fugitives are wanted subjects of Indian law enforcement authorities. Basheer is facing rape charges in a case registered by Kerala Police, Najir was being chased by the Gujarat Police in a cheating and criminal conspiracy case and Jain was wanted in Rajasthan in an extortion bid case, the official said. The International Police Cooperation Unit (IPCU) of the CBI, in collaboration with NCB-Abu Dhabi and Kerala Police, brought back the Red Notice subject Basheer on April 2. "The escort team of Kerala Police returned with the fugitive criminal from UAE and landed at the Cochin International Airport. The subject was earlier geo-located in UAE through close follow up by the CBI through Interpol," said a CBI statement. Basheer is wanted by Kerala Police in a case registered at Muvattupuzha Police Station, Ernakulam Rural District, Kerala on the allegations of rape of a minor girl in 2023 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. He was absconding since registration of the case against him. CBI got the Red Notice published through Interpol in this case on December 2, 2024 on the request of Kerala Police. Najir Khan also landed at Cochin in a flight from the UAE and was handed over to a Gujarat Police Team. The CBI got a Red Notice issued against Najir Khan on February 25, 2025 on the request of Gujarat Police. Jain was wanted by Rajasthan Police in multiple criminal cases, including a case registered at Kuchaman City Police Station, Didwana District on the allegations of making extortion calls to wealthy businessmen. The CBI got the Red Notice published against Jain through Interpol on February 18, 2025 on the request of Rajasthan Police. More than 100 wanted criminals have been brought back to India in the last few years through the CBI's coordination via Interpol channels, said an official. Viettels Myanmar operator Mytel said on Thursday that it has restored International and mobile connectivity following last week's 7.7 magnitude earthquake, although questions remain over how much ordinary users can access it in the midst of reported internet shutdowns by the ruling military junta. Recovery and rescue efforts are ongoing since the quake struck on March 28 near Mandalay, with the death toll reaching 3,145 as of Thursday, according to the Associated Press. State television broadcaster MRTV reported that 4,589 people were injured and 221 others were missing. In a press statement, Mytel said that more than 2,100 base stations were damaged by the quake around Mandalay and Naypyitaw, which are reported to be the hardest hit areas. By April 1, over 90% of its mobile network was up and running again, and international connectivity was fully restored, the statement said. Mytel also said it has been coordinating with international rescue teams to provide critical communications. The telco said it has supplied nearly 1,000 SIM cards to responders, along with 20,000 additional SIMs and 100 Wi-Fi hot spots to streamline coordination. Mytel said it deployed five extra base stations and optimised 46 existing sites to boost connectivity for field hospitals and search and rescue operations in Mandalay and Naypyitaw. The operator also said it has provided over 4 million customers free access to 1GB of data, 300 call minutes and 300 SMS messages to reconnect with loved ones and access vital updates. With power outages still widespread, Mytel also said it set up over 500 mobile charging stations across affected regions. It's unclear the extent to which residents can make use of the offer. On March 31, the Myanmar Internet Project (MIP) an advocacy group documenting internet shutdowns in the country following the 2021 military coup issued a joint statement with local and international rights groups accusing the military junta of imposing communications blackouts, including internet shutdowns, which were preventing people from coordinating with each other and calling for help. The junta has a history of frequently imposing internet shutdowns during its ongoing civil war with rebel pro-democracy forces and ethnic militias. In the province of Sagaing, where the earthquakes epicentre is located, the junta ordered 94 shutdowns in 2024 alone, according to MIP. The March 31 statement from MIP demanded that the junta restore all internet and communications services to ensure full access, and called for the military to be held accountable for all loss of life and suffering caused by these various internet restrictions. A statement from MIP on Thursday reported that telcos in Myanmar are providing free services for phone calls and text messages between operators, but that while telecommunications services are available in one area, it has been difficult to use them in other areas. The group urged telecoms operators to provide free assistance by enabling phone calls between any operators. Imphal, April 4 : In a significant development, leading organisations of Meitei and Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities will hold a tripartite meeting with officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi on Saturday, officials and leaders said here on Friday. Saturdayas meeting will be the first such tripartite meeting after ethnic riots broke out 23 months ago between the non-tribal Meitei and tribal Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities over the tribal status demand of the Meiteis. Though Manipur government officials confirmed Saturdayas first meeting in the national Capital, they refused to disclose the agenda of the tripartite meet. Leaders of the Kuki and Meitei communities separately said that MHA advisor for the northeast region, A.K. Mishra, invited the leaders of the organisations of both the communities. Mishra last month held separate meetings with various organisations of the Meitei and the Kuki-Zo in Manipur. Last year also the MHA tried to hold a tripartite meeting with the leaders of the two communities but the tribal organisations (Kuki-Zo) refused to meet the Meitei leaders. Leaders of the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), a conglomerate of 13 organisations of the Kuki-Zo tribal communities in Manipur, held a meeting with senior officials of the MHA in New Delhi on January 17 and discussed their demands and the prevailing situation in the northeastern state. The four-member delegation of the KZC, led by its Chairman Henlianthang Thanglet, met A.K. Mishra and Joint Director, MHA, Rajesh Kamble. Both the MHA officials and the KZC leaders did not share the details of the discussions with the media. The KZC and 10 tribal MLAs have been demanding a separate administration equivalent to a Union Territory for the Kuki-Zo-Hmar tribal-dominated areas. The Meitei organisations have been demanding steps against militants, the drug menace, infiltrators from Myanmar and introduction of the National Register of Citizens (NRC). Over 250 people have been killed and over 1,500 people injured in the ethnic violence between the Meitei and the Kuki-Zo people since May 3, 2023. More than 60,000 people have been displaced from their homes and villages and are now staying in relief camps in different districts for the past 23 months. Kochi, April 4 : Kerala's Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan on Friday asserted that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has no other option but to resign in the wake of his daughter Veena Vijayan figuring in the list of accused of the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) charge sheet for receiving illegal gratification to the tune of Rs 2.70 crore from Kochi-based Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL), for mining sanctions. Veena is the second accused in the SFIO charge sheet, which includes both firms, the CMRL and Veena Vijayan's Exalogic, besides CMRLas MD, Sasidharan Kartha, and others. This charge sheet has been filed at a special court in Kochi dealing with economic offences. "In the past, you (Vijayan) came under duress in the SNC Lavalin and the infamous Kerala gold smuggling case, but this time things are different. Your daughter has been caught red-handed receiving money for no services offered, which is nothing but bribes. So you have to resign at the earliest," Satheesan said. "During the UPA regime, when the then Railway Minister Pawan Kumar Bansalas distant relative came under a cloud after an allegation surfaced, the national leadership of the CPI-M demanded that Bansal should quit. In this SFIO case, itas the daughter of Vijayan and not a distant relative, who is in the dock, as the case registered against her comes under the PMLA Act. Hence, the national leadership (of the CPI-M) should take the same stand that they took against Bansal and ask Vijayan to step down immediately," the Congress leader demanded. "Not long ago, when the son of the then CPI-M state Secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan was arrested by the ED, this shield of protection from the national leadership, which is now given to Vijayan, did not happen. Why is that two yardsticks are being applied... Balakrishnan stepped down from his post, and Vijayan (didn't)... is it because they are scared of Vijayan?" he asked. "The charge sheet is clear that this was illegal gratification that Veena received for no services that her company provided. I wish to ask, why is it that no others are getting money for free like Veena got? If this had happened to the family of a Congress or any other political party's leader, the CPI-M would be the first to speak of political morality and ask that leader to step down," Satheesan said. The Congress had called for a statewide protest demanding the resignation of Vijayan. Even though the entire CPI-M leadership has openly supported Vijayan, it remains to be seen how long this will continue, as both the Congress and the BJP have decided to put maximum pressure on Vijayan. Meanwhile, the national leadership of the CPI-M is mulling to file a petition against this SFIO charge sheet as soon there is going to be the Nilambur Assembly by-election, the local bodies election later this year and the Assembly polls in April/May next year and they would not like to have such a case hanging like the Damocles' sword over the party, which has deep roots, now, only in Kerala. Bangkok, April 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a royal audience on Friday with King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana of Thailand at the Dusit Palace in Bangkok. "They exchanged views on shared cultural heritage between India and Thailand. In this context, they spoke about the relics of Lord Buddha which travelled from India to Thailand last year and the positive impact the initiative has had in further strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries. They also discussed ways to further strengthen the multifaceted ties between the two countries," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) after the meeting. The bilateral relations between India and Thailand are rooted in history, age-old social and cultural interactions, and extensive people-to-people contacts. The shared link of Buddhism is reflected in regular pilgrimages to places of Buddhist interest in India by many in Thailand. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi, accompanied by his counterpart from Thailand, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, visited Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, popularly known as Wat Pho. The PM paid homage to the Reclining Buddha and offered 'Sanghadana' to senior Buddhists monks. He also presented a replica of Ashokan Lion Capital to the shrine of Reclining Buddha. On the occasion, he recalled the strong and vibrant civilizational ties that exist between the two countries. "Today, I had the honour of visiting the historic Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkalaram Ratchaworamahawihan Or Wat Pho in Bangkok. I thank Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for the special gesture of coming to the Temple with me. One of Thailandas most revered spiritual landmarks, Wat Pho also symbolises Thailand's rich cultural and artistic heritage. World over, people derive strength from Lord Buddha's teachings. These teachings also form the basis of an age-old civilisational bond between India and Thailand. Also got the opportunity to interact with several monks," PM Modi posted on X after his visit to the historic site. As a gesture of goodwill, the Thai government also released a special postage stamp depicting 18th century Ramayana mural paintings to mark Prime Minister Modi's visit. Underlining the close cultural and religious connections between the two countries, the Prime Minister was presented a special edition of Buddhist holy scriptures Ti-Pitaka in Pali by Prime Minister Shinawatra. As a gesture to further deepen the close civilizational ties between India and Thailand, Prime Minister Modi offered to send Lord Buddha's Relics excavated from Gujarat to Thailand, for people to pay their respect. Last year, the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha and two of his disciples had travelled from India to Thailand, and over four million people had paid their respects. Jammu, April 4 : Reacting to the resolution passed by the National Conference-led alliance in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) that condemned the transfer order of 48 JKAS officers issued by him, Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha said on Friday that he has acted within his domain. LG Manoj Sinha was reacting to the resolution passed at Friday's crucial meeting of alliance partners called by J&K Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah. The meeting passed two resolutions, one opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the other condemning the transfer order issued by the LG. "The Government must honour the people's mandate. We have passed resolutions urging the Government of India (GOI) to respect the will of the people. "While we maintain a cordial relationship with the LG, this should not be mistaken for weakness. "We are trying to maintain dignity in governance, but this should not be read as our weakness. "The alliance partners passed two resolutions during today's meeting. One resolution opposes the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, labelling it as a measure targeting Muslims and other minorities in the country. "The second resolution demands that the Centre should respect the democratic mandate of Jammu and Kashmir's people, emphasising that the authority of an elected government must not be sidelined," NC spokesperson, Tanvir Sadiq told reporters after the meeting ended. Reacting to this development, LG Manoj Sinha told some reporters, "I want to make it absolutely clear that the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019 was passed by the Parliament and I have not done anything outside the limits of that Act. "I am well within my domain and I will never do anything outside my domain. I know my limits and I will never cross those limits". While the Omar Abdullah-led NC Government was irked by the transfer order issued by Sinha, sources close to the LG said that the officers transferred by him have magisterial powers pertaining to law and order that comes directly under the LG's office. Bangkok, April 4 : In a stunning representation of Buddhist spirituality and Indian craftsmanship, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana of Thailand a unique brass statue of Sarnath Buddha in 'dhyan mudra' along with a brocade silk shawl from Varanasi during the royal audience on Friday at the Dusit Palace in Bangkok. The brass statue of Sarnath Buddha in 'dhyan mudra' is a stunning representation of Buddhist spirituality and Indian craftsmanship, inspired by the Sarnath style. Originating from Bihar, the statue reflects the Gupta and Pala art traditions with its serene expression, intricately detailed robe, and iconic lotus pedestal. The 'dhyan mudra' posture symbolises deep meditation and inner peace, with the Buddha seated in Padmasana, radiating wisdom and compassion. The Prabhavali (backdrop), adorned with celestial beings and floral motifs, represents divine radiance, transforming the statue into a spiritual mandala. The ornate lotus base, decorated with the Dharmachakra and auspicious symbols, signifies purity and spiritual awakening. Made of brass, the statue embodies resilience and the eternal nature of Dharma, making it a powerful addition to meditation spaces, monasteries, or homesa"serving as a symbol of enlightenment and inner tranquility. The brocade silk shawl from Uttar Pradesh, particularly from Varanasi (Banaras), which was gifted by PM Modi to the queen of Thailand is a masterpiece of India's rich weaving tradition. Crafted from the finest silk, it features intricate motifs depicting village life, divine celebrations, and nature, inspired by Indian miniature and Pichwai art. The shawl's vivid color palettea"reds, blues, greens, and yellowsa"symbolizes joy and auspiciousness, while a broad ornamental border in deep pink, magenta, and gold adds a regal touch. Beyond its visual splendor, the shawl boasts a soft, warm, and luxurious drape, with skilled artisans dedicating weeks of meticulous craftsmanship to create each unique piece. PM Modi also gifted a Dokra brass peacock boat with tribal rider - a stunning example of traditional Indian metal craft, originating from the tribal communities of Chhattisgarh - to Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Made using the ancient lost-wax casting technique, each piece is handcrafted and unique. The sculpture features a peacock-shaped boat, symbolising grace and cultural imagination, with intricate patterns and colourful lacquer inlays. A tribal rider, calmly rowing, represents the harmony between humans and nature, a central theme in Dokra art. Crafted in brass, the piece develops a rich patina over time, enhancing its antique charm. Beyond its decorative appeal, this artifact preserves India's tribal heritage, embodying simplicity, creativity, and connection to nature. During his meeting with former Thailand PM Thaksin Shinawatra on Thursday, Prime Minister Modi gifted a brass Urli with peacock and diya from Andhra Pradesh - a masterpiece of traditional brass craftsmanship, symbolising purity, positivity, and abundance - to the leader. Traditionally used for rituals and festive decorations, this urli is often filled with water, flowers, or floating candles, while the diya (oil lamp) enhances its spiritual significance. Renowned for its intricate carvings and flawless finishing, the piece reflects Andhra Pradesh's rich metalwork heritage. Its gleaming brass polish adds a regal charm, making it a timeless addition to both traditional and modern interiors. Colombo, April 4 : With Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to arrive in Sri Lanka on Friday from Thailand, Indian and Sri Lankan citizens living in the country have started gathering at the hotel where he will stay to welcome him. Around 500 people from both Indian and Sri Lankan communities are expected to attend the reception. Speaking to IANS, resident Vijay Palan expressed his excitement, saying: "We are very happy to welcome our Vishwaguru, Narendra Modi, to Sri Lanka. We are from the 'Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh,' Sri Lanka branch, and our parent organisation is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). We are delighted that our Vishwaguru Narendra Modi is visiting Sri Lanka. He always promotes the message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,' which means that the whole world is one family. He is coming to Sri Lanka to meet a member of this family. Whenever he sets foot on any land, that land becomes prosperous." Dushyanti Soundhyrajan, another citizen, also shared her excitement, stating: "I am very excited to welcome our Prime Minister. I am a big fan of his, and itas a privilege to see him here." Another local resident, Damyanti, added: "We all love Prime Minister Narendra Modi very much and are thrilled to welcome him." Surendra Kumar Ashok, a Colombo resident, emphasised the importance of India-Sri Lanka relations, saying: "We have shared strong ties for many years. This visit is a testament to good neighborly relations. We should support each other in times of crisis and promote our businesses. Strengthening trade and cultural relations between India and Sri Lanka is vital. Many Indian tourists visit here, and the distance from Jaffna to Rameswaram is just 22 miles, offering great opportunities for trade and tourism. This visit will further strengthen the relations between our two countries." Dayamani Ashok, also from Colombo, highlighted the broader implications of the Indian leader's visit, saying: "I believe Prime Minister Modias visit will have far-reaching effects. It will bring positive outcomes for both countries, enhancing our relations in trade, tourism, and other sectors. We will support each otheras development and move forward together in the spirit of love and cooperation. Welcoming Prime Minister Modi is a historic occasion for us." Prime Minister Modi left Thailand for Colombo on Friday, with his visit to focus on defence ties and deepening cooperation in energy, trade, and connectivity with Sri Lanka. His visit follows his participation in the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) summit in Bangkok. He will be the first foreign leader hosted by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka since taking office in September. This will mark PM Modias fourth visit to Sri Lanka since 2015, with his previous visit in 2019. New Delhi, April 4 : All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Akbaruddin Owaisi has moved the Supreme Court challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025. In his petition, Owaisi claimed that awaqfsa, including their establishment, management, and administration, which form an integral aspect of the practice of Islam, are entitled to constitutional protection under various provisions of the Constitution of India. "The impugned amendments to the Waqf Act, 1995 are ex facie violative of Articles 14, 15, 21, 25, 26, 29, 30, 300A of the Constitution of India and are manifestly arbitrary," stated the petition filed by advocate Lzafeer Ahmad B.F.. It added that the amendment takes away from waqfs various protections which were accorded to waqfs and Hindu, Jain, and Sikh religious and charitable endowments alike. Congress MP and party whip in Lok Sabha Mohammad Jawed has also moved a similar plea before the Supreme Court challenging the provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Mohammad Jawed, the MP from Bihar's Kishanganj and a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, contended that the proposed legislation violates Articles 14 (right to equality), 25 (freedom to practice and propagate religion), 26 (freedom of religious denominations to manage their religious affairs), 29 (minority rights) and 300A (right to property) of the Constitution. Owaisi, on Wednesday, had cited Mahatma Gandhi's protest against discriminatory South African laws while dramatically tearing a copy of the legislation in the Lok Sabha, stating: "Like Gandhi, I am also tearing up this law." The AIMIM chief said that the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha will be remembered as a 'Black Day' and the proposed legislation is unconstitutional. The Parliament passed the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after it was approved by the Rajya Sabha early on Friday morning. The Lok Sabha approved the Bill after nearly 12 hours of debate on Thursday, with 288 votes in favour and 232 against. After being passed in both houses of Parliament, the proposed legislation will now be sent for the President's assent before it becomes a law amending the 1995 law governing Waqf properties. The NDA government, which is projecting the Waqf Amendment Bill as one of the milestone decisions in the first year of Modi 3.0, is expected to notify it for implementation, soon after getting the Presidentas nod. The concept of aWaqfa, rooted in Islamic laws and traditions, refers to an endowment made by a Muslim for charitable or religious purposes, such as mosques, schools, hospitals, or other public institutions. Jammu, April 4 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday defended the decision of Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha to transfer 48 JKAS officers and criticised the National Conference (NC) for questioning the L-G's move. Addressing a press conference here, senior BJP leader and leader of the opposition (LoP) in the legislative assembly, Sunil Sharma, defended the Lt governor's decision to transfer 48 JKAS officers, calling it "routine". Sunil Sharma criticised the National Conference-led government for questioning the move and said that these transfers were conducted within the L-G's jurisdiction. The National Conference-led alliance on Friday passed a resolution cautioning the Centre 'not to push the NC to the wall'. The resolution criticised the Lt Governor's right to transfer these officers, labelling it as interference in the functioning of the elected government. Manoj Sinha told reporters in response to NC allegations that he was within his domain while transferring these officers as he had acted within the J&K Reorganisation Act 2019 passed by the Parliament. "I know my limit and I will never cross it," Manoj Sinha told reporters. Sunil Sharma said under the J&K Reorganisation Act, which came into effect in October 2019, all transfers related to law and order fall under the L-G's purview. "He has acted within his jurisdiction. These transfers are routine and in accordance with the law", he said while replying to a question on a meeting being called by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah over the issue. Accusing the National Conference of treating J&K as its "personal property" for decades, Sharma said the ruling party has failed to acknowledge that particular 'era is over' and Jammu and Kashmir is now a Union Territory like Puducherry and Delhi, and is governed accordingly. He also pointed out that the CM and other ministers also make transfers within their respective departments, including appointments of principals, lecturers, and other officials. He further criticised the National Conference for failing to deliver on its promises to the people during elections. "They have not provided 200 units of free electricity as promised. Their ration scheme is only for two years, yet they claim it will last five years. Those who are demanding statehood are doing so to gain control over transfers and industries. The people should understand whether this demand is for the welfare of the state or for personal power and influence", he said. Sharma also condemned the alleged manhandling of former minister, Harsh Dev Singh at Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary's residence and added that such incidents reflect the frustration of the ruling party. Ranchi, April 4 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday conducted raids at 21 locations in connection with the alleged Ayushman Bharat scam in Jharkhand, recovering Rs 20 lakh in cash, large investment-related documents, and several papers linked to the alleged money laundering case. The cash was mainly seized from the residence of Om Prakash, personal secretary to former state Health Minister Banna Gupta. The raids targeted key individuals, including Jharkhand State Arogya Society (JHSAS) Additional Executive Director Abhishek Srivastava, Senior Consultant Vaibhav Rai, and several former officials associated with third-party administrators like MD India Health Insurance, Safeway, and Medi Assist. Employees such as Dayashankar Choudhary and Manish are also under the EDas radar. The simultaneous raids began at 7 a.m. across 17 locations in Jharkhand -- including Ranchi, Jamshedpur, and Bokaro -- along with two places in West Bengal and one each in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. The action follows a Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) report, which exposed large-scale irregularities in the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The Central government auditor's report alleged that hospitals in Jharkhand fabricated patient bills to claim government payments worth crores and funds were fraudulently withdrawn in the name of deceased patients. Following the CAG revelations, the ED sought details from the Jharkhand State Health Society and the Health Department regarding actions taken against those involved. The Health Department later provided information on FIRs filed against several hospitals. Based on these findings, the ED registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) and launched its probe. Jharkhand has over 750 hospitals enrolled under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, with multiple complaints of fraud worth crores. So far, investigations have pointed to the involvement of Om Prakash, the private secretary to former Health Minister Banna Gupta, in the scam. The EDas probe is ongoing, with further revelations expected in the coming days. Bangkok, April 4 : Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli said on Friday that he had "extremely fruitful and positive" discussions with PM Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. "I had a cordial meeting with my dear friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji. Our conversation was extremely fruitful and positive. I express my pleasure at this cordial meeting," PM Oli posted on X. Nepal is considered a priority partner of India under the 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Friday's meeting continued the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries with both leaders reaffirming the commitment to continue to work towards further deepening the multifaceted bilateral partnership. "Had a productive meeting with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in Bangkok. India attaches immense priority to relations with Nepal. We discussed different aspects of India-Nepal friendship, especially in sectors like energy, connectivity, culture, and digital technology. We also talked about some of the key positive outcomes from this year's BIMSTEC Summit, especially in areas of disaster management and maritime transport," PM Modi posted on X after the meeting. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that both leaders expressed satisfaction at the progress in enhancing physical and digital connectivity, people-to-people linkages, and in the domain of energy. Both leaders had previously met during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, last year. "We hope that their meeting in Bangkok will pave the way for Oli's long-awaited official bilateral visit to India," Nepali media quoted a foreign ministry official as saying ahead of the meeting. India and Nepal enjoy age-old civilisational and cultural ties that are exemplified by the strong people-to-people link between both countries. India is also the largest developmental donor of Nepal, with the major portion of developmental assistance focussed on large-scale infrastructure projects under grants, necessary for the rapid development of Nepal, in the field of priority sectors such as health, education, and connectivity. Amazons Project Kuiper has announced it will finally launch its first batch of LEO satellites next week, almost one year behind schedule, with more launches already booked and commercial services expected to kick off later this year. According to a blog post from Amazon on Wednesday, United Launch Alliance (ULA) will launch the first 27 Kuiper satellites on an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida on April 9. The satellites, launched under the mission name KA-01 (Kuiper Atlas 1), will be placed in orbit around 450 kilometres above the Earth. The initial Kuiper constellation will comprise over 3,200 LEO satellites. Amazon said it has secured more than 80 launches to deploy the remaining satellites over the next few years, including seven more Atlas V launches and 38 Vulcan Centaur launches with ULA, plus an additional 30+ launches with Arianespace, Amazon-owned Blue Origin and SpaceX. Amazon has been testing its LEO broadband service on two prototype satellites launched in October 2023. The company said the satellites being launched this Wednesday have been upgraded to improve the performance of every system and sub-system on board, including phased array antennas, processors, solar arrays, propulsion systems, and optical inter-satellite links. Amazon added that the satellites are also coated in a dielectric mirror film that scatters reflected sunlight to help make them less visible to ground-based astronomers. Weve done extensive testing on the ground to prepare for this first mission, but there are some things you can only learn in flight, and this will be the first time weve flown our final satellite design and the first time weve deployed so many satellites at once, said Project Kuiper VP Rajeev Badyal in the blog post. No matter how the mission unfolds, this is just the start of our journey, and we have all the pieces in place to learn and adapt as we prepare to launch again and again over the coming years. Project Kuiper was originally scheduled to start launching satellites in the first half of 2024. In July that year, the launch date was pushed back to October 2024, and then again to early 2025 after ULA bumped the Amazon launch to prioritise two missions for the US Space Force. According to Space News, Amazon has little room for further delays, as its FCC licence requires it to deploy half the constellation by July 2026, and the full constellation by July 2029. Meanwhile, Amazon said it has already begun shipping and processing satellites for the KA-02 mission, which will also use a ULA Atlas V rocket and launch from Cape Canaveral, although no launch date has been given. Amaravati, April 4 : Andhra Pradesh's YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) on Friday denied that it supported the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Parliament. YSRCP Parliamentary Party leader Y.V. Subba Reddy has challenged the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) to provide evidence to prove its allegation that the YSRCP did not oppose the Bill. The YSRCP on Friday issued a statement affirming that it issued a whip directing its MP to vote against the Waqf legislation. The recorded proceedings of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha serve as clear evidence of their opposition to the legislation. Additionally, the speech delivered by YSRCP MP Subba Reddy in the Rajya Sabha stands as further direct proof of their stance, reads the statement. Subba Reddy challenged the TDP to provide evidence proving that the YSRCP did not oppose the bill. He questioned their ability to back up their claims, asserting that they lack the courage to do so. He further accused them of habitually engaging in politics based on fake news. The YSRCP made public the whip issued to Rajya Sabha members, directing them to be present in the house at the time of the voting and vote against the bill. Headed by former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has four members in the Lok Sabha and seven in the Rajya Sabha. Meanwhile, YSRCP leader and former minister Merugu Nagarjuna has slammed the TDP for supporting the 'unconstitutional' Waqf (Amendment) Bill. He said that Chief Minister and TDP President N. Chandrababu Naidu has enraged the minorities. Nagarjuna accused Naidu of using diversionary politics to deflect scrutiny. He said the TDP leadership was spreading false claims that the YSRCP didn't issue a Rajya Sabha whip and backed the bill. Displaying the whip, Nagarjuna said YSRCP's opposition, led by Subba Reddy, was clear in Parliament. He accused Naidu of betraying minorities after using them as a vote bank. Nagarjuna slammed Naidu's "yellow gang" for venomous social media propaganda, citing his history of lies: from the betrayal of NTR to inflated debt figures (Rs 14 lakh crore pre-election, now Rs 10 lakh crore, against the Centre's Rs 5.62 lakh crore). Affirming the YSRCP's support for minorities, he said Naidu's attempts to tarnish Jagan Mohan Reddy would fail, predicting that public backlash would teach Naidu a lesson. Kolkata, April 4 : The Calcutta High Court on Friday granted permission to conduct to two organisations, Anjani Putra Sena (APS) and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) to conduct two processions at Kolkata-adjacent Howrah district in West Bengal on the occasion of Ram Navami on April 6. The two organisations approached the Calcutta High Courtas single-judge bench of Justice Tirthankar Ghosh for permission to conduct the procession after the police denied them the permission on grounds that had been precedents in those two areas in Howrah district over the Ram Navami processions. However, Justice Ghosh on Friday permitted the rallies and also observed that if there is tension during Durga Puja in any area, the Pujas in these areas are not stopped. He also questioned whether tension is a regular affair in those two areas and observed that the state police could be portrayed in a bad light if there is a law and order problem in an area in the state. Justice Ghosh also observed that if law and order could be an issue for denying permission, that there should be a ban on all types of processions, including political rallies. However, the single-judge bench imposed several restrictions on the two processions. As per the court order, while the ASP procession will be between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. on April 6, the same for VHP will be between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on the same day. The maximum gathering in the two rallies combined should not exceed 1,000. No metallic weapons will be carried at the processions and the identities of all the participants should be submitted to the police. There is also a bar on the use of DJs at the processions and the organisers of the two rallies will have to ensure that provocative statements are uttered during the processions. New Delhi, April 4 : The Indian Railways has taken a major step towards enhancing efficiency in rolling stock maintenance and safety in operations by signing a Memorandum of Understanding on Friday with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for the procurement and installation of state-of-the-art Automatic Wheel Profile Measurement Systems. The agreement formalised on Friday at Rail Bhawan here will pave the way for automatic, non-contact measurement of train wheel profiles for enhanced safety and efficiency in Indian Railways. Automatic Wheel Profile Measurement Systems (WPMS) are advanced systems that allow for automatic, non-contact measurement of train wheel profiles, ensuring real-time assessment of wheel geometry and wear. Utilising laser scanners and high-speed cameras, the system provides accurate and rapid measurements without manual intervention. In case of deviations, automated alerts will ensure timely corrective actions, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency. Under this partnership, the DMRC will take responsibility for the procurement, supply, installation and commissioning of four AWPMS units for Indian Railways. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the modernisation of Railway maintenance practices. By integrating cutting-edge technology, Indian Railways is enhancing its rolling stock management, reducing maintenance time and improving overall service efficiency. The partnership also promotes technology exchange and skill development between the Indian Railways and the DMRC, reinforcing their commitment to innovation, safety and operational excellence. The MoU signing ceremony was attended by senior officials, including Railway Board Member, Traction & Rolling Stock, B.M. Agrawal, and Additional Member S.K. Pankaj (Production Units) and Ashish Sharma (Mechanical Engineering), and the DMRC's Director, Business Development, Parmit Garg. Earlier, the Indian Railways, the DMRC, and the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) have collaborated to promote the 'One India One Ticket' initiative, enhancing the travel experience for mainline railway and metro passengers in the Delhi/NCR area. The DMRC QR code-based tickets can now be booked on the IRCTC website and mobile application. Metro tickets can be booked up to 120 days in advance and are valid for four days. The move is aimed at a seamless travel experience of the mainline railway and metro passengers in the Delhi NCR area, thereby promoting the Centre's 'One India One Ticket' initiative. New Delhi, April 4 : India and Portugal are expected to strengthen longstanding historical ties, very strong diaspora links and unique cultural linkages during President Droupadi Murmu's State Visit to the country from April 7-8 April at the invitation of her Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. The visit is taking place after a gap of 27 years, and comes as India and Portugal are celebrating 50 years of re-establishment of diplomatic relations. The last State Visit took place in 1998 when President K. R. Narayanan visited Portugal. "It is a very symbolic and landmark visit... In fact, President Sousa had visited India in 2020. A year earlier, in 2019, Prime Minister Antonio Costa had visited India, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited Portugal in 2017, and also earlier, Prime Minister Costa had visited India in 2017 also. So if we just see the last few years, there has been a very, very high-level exchange of visits between India and Portugal, and that shows the degree of high-level engagement that is ongoing between our two countries," said Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) during a media briefing on Friday. India and Portugal share historic and friendly bilateral ties which have evolved over the years into a modern, multifaceted, and dynamic partnership, characterised by robust growth and expansion across several areas of cooperation. The visit will provide further impetus and renewed momentum to India's growing relations with Portugal. Besides meeting and holding delegation-level talks with her counterpart President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President Murmu will also hold discussions with the Prime Minister of Portugal, Luis Montenegro and the President of the National Assembly (Parliament), Jose Pedro Aguiar-Branco. "Another dimension of the India-Portugal relationship is the India-EU partnership, and there again the India-Portugal relationship adds to the strength of the India-EU relationship. It is worth noting that during the Portuguese Presidency of the EU in the year 2000, the first India-EU summit had been hosted by Portugal. And also in 2021, the first ever India-EU Leaders' Summit was hosted under Portuguese Presidency. So this relationship has an important role in strengthening the strategic partnership between India and EU," mentioned Secretary Lal. Portugal was also the first country in Europe with whom India had signed a Migration and Mobility Agreement. "If you look at the business ties, the trade is of the order of US$ 1.5 billion, and it has been growing steadily. There has been a 50 per cent growth during the last five years. Range of areas of cooperation include renewable energy, IT, pharmaceuticals, education, tourism and defence. One more dimension at the multilateral and regional level is the association with the CPLP, which is the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries, which has nine members, and India is an associate member in the CPLP," the senior diplomat remarked. From Portugal, President Murmu will travel to Slovakia on what would be the first visit by the President of India to the country in 29 years. During the April 9-10 visit, President Murmu will hold discussions with Slovakia President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico. President Murmu will also meet the Speaker of the National Council of the Slovak Republic, Richard Rasi. "The foreign ministers of Slovakia have visited India during the last three years, 2023, 2024, and also this year. The visit also comes 30 years after the establishment of the Indian Embassy in Bratislava, which was done in 1995. The Foreign Minister, Juraj Blanar, had visited India recently, and last year the then foreign minister, Rastislav Kacer, had met the External Affairs Minister in Vienna," said Lal. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had also travelled to Bratislava a year before in 2023. Slovak Minister of Economy, Karel Hirman, had visited with a business delegation last year, and Foreign Office Consultations were also held last year. "Slovakian businesses are also investing in India, again in very diverse fields, manufacturing steel, IT hardware, railways, and there are also long-standing defense ties. One of the satellites of Slovakia was launched by an Indian rocket, PSLV, in 2017," stated Lal. In both countries, President Murmu will interact with members of Indian community. New Delhi, April 4 : A wave of optimism and joy swept across the nation as the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 was passed in both Houses of Parliament. The Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM) on Friday hailed the Bill as a historic move that will pave the way for transparency, justice, and development within the Muslim community. In a statement, MRM saluted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, JPC Chairman Jagdambika Pal, and the tireless efforts of thousands of MRM workers for the successful passage of the Bill. National Convener and National Media In-charge of MRM, Shahid Sayeed, expressed pride and excitement, urging the Muslim community to celebrate this significant achievement. "This law is not against any religion or sect; it is a symbol of transparency, justice, and development. It ensures rightful entitlements for orphans, widows, the poor, and the needy," Sayeed said. He said that the Bill was not just a legal reform but also a victory for marginalised sections of society, particularly within the Muslim community. The MRM also cautioned the public to remain wary of divisive political forces, noting the importance of unity and brotherhood in the wake of this new law. The organisation described the Bill as a major step towards ending the exploitation and corruption within Waqf properties, a situation that, according to MRM, has been held hostage by mafias and land jihadists for decades. "The Waqf is now free," stated the MRM. "Though India gained independence in 1947, it is only today that Waqf properties have been freed from political manipulation and corruption." The Manch underscored the historical significance of this moment, calling for PM Modi's name to be etched in golden letters for his role in the reform. In a bid to raise awareness and garner public support for the bill, MRM workers organised over 5,000 public meetings, seminars, debates, and article campaigns across the country. These efforts helped expose widespread corruption within the Waqf system and highlighted the misuse of properties meant for the welfare of the community. MRM officials worked tirelessly to counter misleading narratives and rumours, stressing that the Bill does not harm anyone's faith but rather sets the stage for necessary social reform, says the Manch. One of the driving forces behind the campaign was the publication of the book 'Waqf Bill 2024: Respect to Islam and Gift for Muslims', which became an ideological backbone for the movement, says the MRM. The book, which outlines the history and potential of Waqf reform, was widely distributed by MRM volunteers and reached influential leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot. At the launch event of the book, Union minister Kiren Rijiju praised it as an "encyclopaedia of Waqf," recommending it for all who wished to understand the nuances of the issue. The book highlighted the misuse of Waqf assets, stating that Waqf properties, worth an estimated Rs 2 lakh crore, were underutilised, with annual income falling drastically short of their potential, says the MRM. The Sachar Committee report had estimated the annual revenue from Waqf assets could reach Rs 1.25 lakh crore, money that could have been invested in education, healthcare, and social welfare programmes for the Muslim community. However, much of this potential was squandered due to inaction and mismanagement by the Waqf Board, says the MRM. Experts from various fields also welcomed the passing of the Bill, highlighting its potential to address long-standing issues with Waqf management. Prof. (Dr.) Shahid Akhtar, acting chairperson of the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI), called the Bill a victory for truth. "For years, there were complaints of encroachments and corruption in Waqf properties. Now, those issues can be resolved," he said. He said that proper utilisation of these assets could have led to significant progress in the Muslim community's education, healthcare, and economic sectors. Social activist and analyst Dr Shalini Ali pointed out the fear some so-called community leaders had of the Bill's passage. "Those who falsely posed as community leaders were afraid of digitisation, CAG audits, and transparency because it would expose their illegal assets," she remarked. She further stated that the Bill would unmask the true faces of those who exploited Waqf properties for personal gain. Advocate Shiraz Qureshi, an expert on Muslim affairs, echoed similar sentiments, clarifying that the bill would not interfere with Muslim properties but instead ensure that the assets of Waqf were transparently used for the community's upliftment. "The Bill aims to ensure that poor Muslims receive their rightful share and that corrupt elements no longer have control over these assets," Qureshi added. Hyderabad, April 4 : The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has fielded Mirza Riyaz Ul Hasan Effendi as its candidate for the biennial election to the Hyderabad Local Authorities Constituency (LAC) seat of the Telangana Legislative Council. Effendi filed his nomination paper on Friday in the presence of party MLAs Ahmed Balala and Mir Zulfekhar Ali. If elected, this will be the second term for Effendi as MLC. His first term came to an end last month. The electorate for Hyderabad LAC consists of 110 voters, including corporators, MLAs, and MPs. The AIMIM has the majority with 49 votes, followed by the BRS with 25, and the Congress with 14. The remaining voters belong to the BJP. The ruling Congress has not fielded its candidate for the April 23 poll. It is likely to support the AIMIM. The main opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) is also not contesting the election. Friday was the last day for filing of nominations. N. Gautham Rao filed his nomination as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate. Gautham Rao earlier served as the President of the BJPas Hyderabad Central district. Nomination papers will be scrutinised on April 7 and April 9 is the last date for withdrawal of papers. Polling will be held on April 23 and counting will take place on April 25. The term of the present MLC, M.S. Prabhakar, ends on May 1 this year. Sitting MLC Prabhakar was elected on a BRS ticket in the previous election but switched loyalties to the Congress in July last year. Last month, five MLC vacancies from the MLA quota were filled unanimously. Three candidates of the Congress and one each of its ally, the Communist Party of India (CPI), and the BRS were elected unopposed. Meanwhile, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay has alleged that the AIMIM, the BRS, and the Congress have colluded. He termed it Telanganaas love triangle. "The non-existent delimitation issue brought the 3 parties together. The trio voted jointly against the Centre on the Waqf Board Bill in Parliament. Now, both BRS & Congress backed off from contesting Hyderabad MLC elections to ensure AIMIMas victory," Bandi Sanjay posted on X. "Rahul Gandhi, your Congress is partnering with the same BRS & MIM you falsely accused the BJP of aligning with during elections. Next time, before making baseless statements for votes, check your own house before pointing fingers. Hypocrisy is showing & Telangana is watching," he added. New Delhi, April 4 : The Delhi BJP has chalked out mega plans to celebrate the party's foundation day on April 6 with events lined up at 14 organisational district offices, in addition to the state office, said a party leader on Friday. Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva stated that on the occasion the city unit will organise a flag-hoisting and floral tribute programme at all 14 organisational district offices. On April 6, all the distinguished individuals who have contributed to Delhias politics will be honoured with floral tributes, he said. Sachdeva said that the BJP is not just a political party but a movement that has been striving for the nationas welfare for the last 45 years. He stated that the BJP is constantly working to fight against anti-national forces and develop the country. The Delhi BJP president said that the party is moving toward building a nation that is gaining recognition not only regionally but also globally, with its ideas and vision. Sharing details of the events on April 6, Sachdeva said the main programme will begin at 9 a.m. at the state office, He said all BJP MPs and state office bearers will hoist the partyas flag. Following this, a floral tribute ceremony will take place. In the afternoon, the following leaders will participate in the events at their respective locations: Alka Gurjar (State Co-Incharge) in West Delhi; Virendra Sachdeva in Shahdara; Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra in Mayur Vihar; Organisation Secretary Pawan Rana in New Shahdara; MP Manoj Tiwari in Northeast District; MP Yogendra Chandolia in Northwest District; MP Kamaljeet Sahrawat in Najafgarh District; MP Ramveer Singh Bidhuri in South Delhi; MP Bansuri Swaraj in Karol Bagh District, MP Praveen Khandelwal in Chandni Chowk District; State General Secretary Vishnu Mittal in Keshavpuram District; Dinesh Pratap Singh in New Delhi District; Sarika Jain in Mehrauli District and Naresh Vashisth in Outer Delhi District. Mumbai, April 4 : Shiv Sena leader and party spokesperson Sanjay Nirupam on Friday launched a sharp attack on Uddhav Thackeray, accusing him of betraying Hindutva ideals for electoral gains. Calling it a shameful departure from Balasaheb Thackeray's principles, he accused Thackeray of prioritising vote-bank politics over Hindutva. "Balasaheb fought for Hindutva all his life. Today, Uddhav Thackeray has sold that legacy for political survival," he asserted. He alleged that Thackeray and his MPs were pressured into opposing the Waqf Amendment Bill under the influence of Muslim organizations. He claimed that groups like Raza Academy and the All India Ulema Board publicly thanked Thackeray for his stance against Waqf Board reforms. "With this move, Shiv Sena (UBT) has crowned itself the king of Muslim appeasement - but at what cost? Balasaheb Thackeray dedicated his life to protecting Hindu interests, yet Uddhav Thackeray has abandoned those ideals for political survival," Nirupam stated. According to Nirupam, many Shiv Sena-UBT MPs initially supported the Waqf Amendment Bill recognising its benefits for the community. However, Uddhav Thackeray allegedly called them five times and pressured to vote against it. "Only Arvind Sawant and Anil Desai were against the bill, but others had were forced to follow Uddhav Thackeray's orders," he revealed. Nirupam further alleged that Thackeray's opposition to the bill was not ideological but financial, claiming that Muslim organizations had funded Shiv Sena (UBT)'s election campaigns and even issued fatwas urging votes in its favour. "The same man who pretends to lecture on governance took a 40 per cent commission from BMC contractors to build the second Matoshree. The hypocrisy is glaring," Nirupam charged. Earlier on Thursday, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena supremo Eknath Shinde also targeted Uddhav Thackeray for his party MPs voting against the Amendment Bill. "Wednesday was truly an unfortunate day for Shiv Sena-UBT as it has said that the bill has nothing to do with Hindutva. Shiv Sena-UBT said they are not opposed to the bill but opposed to the BJP's hypocrisy. It shows that they are in a very confused situation. The Shiv Sena UBT leadership is seen in a state of not knowing what to say or do. They have reached a state where if you hold them, they bite, if you let them go, they run away," he said. "Patriotic Muslims were supported by Balasaheb Thackeray. The same position is held by Shiv Sena, not only by us, but also by BJP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also holds the same stand. We support Muslims who love the country. We oppose anyone who does anti-national acts. This is the stand taken by BJP through the Waqf Amendment Bill. Uddhav Thackeray is not sure what to do," he said. Nanded : , April 4 (IANS) Eight women on Friday died in Asegaon village of Nanded district after a tractor trolley fell into well. In all, 11 women were travelling, and three of them were rescued. The state government has announced an assistance of Rs 5 lakh for families of the deceased. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a post on X said: "Saddened by the loss of lives in an accident in Nanded, Maharashtra. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000." Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said: "It is unfortunate that some women died in an accident in Asegaon, Nanded district this morning when a tractor trolley carrying 11 women labourers fell into a well. I pay my heartfelt tributes to them. These women were from Gunjgaon, Hingoli district and were going for agricultural work. "The work of rescuing the women from that well has been undertaken on a war footing and the entire system including the Resident Deputy Collector, Additional Superintendent of Police is at the spot. Three women have been rescued safely. We are in touch with both Hingoli and Nanded administrations.The families of the deceased will be given financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund." Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the incident of a tractor trolley carrying 11 women labourers falling into a well in Asegaon, Nanded district this morning is extremely sad and unfortunate. "We pay tribute to the women who lost their lives in this accident. The accident occurred when a woman from Gunjgaon in Hingoli district was going for agricultural work. As soon as the information about the incident was received, the administration safely pulled out 3 women from the well. It is also understood that some women died in this unfortunate incident. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased.We share in the grief of the families of the women who died in this tragedy and pray to God that hd may give them the strength to overcome this grief," he said. Raipur, April 4 : In a major breakthrough in anti-Naxal drive just before Union Home Minister Amit Shah landed in Chhattisgarh on Friday to conduct a high-level meeting on the drive, PLGA (People's Liberation Guerrilla Army) battalion of Maoists suffered a significant setback in Sukma area of Chhattisgarh, as four key members, including Barse Sanna -- the brother of battalion chief Barse Deva -- surrendered. Shah will review the progress of the anti-Naxal drive in a high-level meeting of officials, as he had launched with a pledge to make India Naxal-free by 2026. Driven by fear, following the consistent elimination of Naxal commanders in encounters, the Maoists surrendered before security forces on Friday. Among the surrendered individuals, two carried bounties of Rs 8 lakh each, while the other two had rewards of Rs 2 lakh each, amounting to a total of Rs 20 lakh, officials said. Under the governmentas 2025 rehabilitation policy, each surrendered Maoist received Rs 50,000 and clothing, with additional benefits promised as per the guidelines. The West Bastar Divisionas Company No. 2 has been entirely dismantled by security forces. Madvi Hurra, the sole survivor of this group, revealed that two major encounters occurred within six months along the Bijapur-Dantewada border. In the first clash, he said, 26 Naxals, including commander DVCM Hunga (with an Rs 8 lakh bounty), were killed. Leadership then passed to Waga, another commander with an Rs 8 lakh reward, who was also eliminated along with 22 others, he narrated to police. This relentless pressure led to the surrender of the remaining members. Barse Sannaas journey within the Naxal organisation began in 2010 as part of Bal Sangham. Over the years, he climbed the ranks, holding various roles, including RPC militia member and party member of PLGA Battalion Number One. He was involved in several incidents, such as obstructing roads in 2023. SP Kiran Chavan confirmed the surrender of four Naxals, including two high-profile members from PLGA Battalion Number One and Company Number 2. The efforts of the CRPF 131st Battalion and Chintagufa Police Station were instrumental in facilitating these surrenders. Pan-African service provider Airtel and tower company IHS, Africas largest telecommunications infrastructure provider, have unveiled a plan to expand network reach in Zambia. Airtel and IHS Towers say they are planning to collaborate to set up 152 new communication towers across the nation. This will involve an investment of approximately US$14 million to ensure the towers are installed within the next six months. Airtel Zambia managing director Hussam Baday says the initiative aims to significantly enhance network quality and expand coverage for the mobile network operator. Baday has also outlined targets to increase population coverage from the current 91.6% to 93% by next year and then further increase those figures to 95 to 96% within two years. IHS CEO Augustine Phiri says the tower construction project will be rolled out in two phases, with the initial deployment of 50 towers commencing in the coming weeks, followed by an additional 102 towers. Zambias Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati has reacted positively to the news and pointed out that the information, communication and technology (ICT) sector recorded 17.4% growth last year despite the effects of drought. This, he suggested, was down to efforts by mobile network providers to maintain power to existing towers and ensure network availability by buying diesel. Although this deal is undoubtedly welcome, Zambia is not among IHS Towers biggest markets. According to a report on the TechCabal website, MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria accounted for 57% of IHS Towers revenue in 2024. IHS Towers revenue reportedly fell to US$1.7 billion in 2024 from US$2.1 billion in 2023, with 98.5% of its earnings tied to three mobile network operators: MTN Nigeria, MTN South Africa and the pan-African Airtel Africa, which has a presence in a number of African countries including Zambia. Bhopal, April 4 : The Jabalpur Police in Madhya Pradesh have aggressively launched a hunt for the accused who were involved in a perpetrated assault on ecclesiastical dignitaries on March 31 in the precincts of the Ranjhi police station. The incident, according to a senior police officer, had already prompting the authorities to lodge a formal complaint against "three malefactors". These individuals, whose identities have been recognised through a viral video, are currently the subjects of an active pursuit by the police. The incident, wherein the aforementioned dignitaries were subjected to violence, has been disseminated across the social media platform, inciting public indignation. The police endeavours were galvanised following the uproarious protests that reverberated within the Lok Sabha and the Kerala Legislative Assembly recently. According to police, on March 31, adherents of Hindu religious factions intercepted two buses, compelling their passengers to alight at the Ranjhi police station area. These passengers, hailing from Mandla, were accused of being transported to Jabalpur for the purpose of religious conversion. The ensuing tumult within the police premises saw the arrival of Christian adherents, culminating in a visual recording wherein members of the "Hindu faction" were observed allegedly assailing Christian ecclesiastical figures. The incident has caused vehement condemnation from Opposition members, including the Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, and the Congress General Secretary, KC Venugopal. On Thursday (April 3), these leaders castigated the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party for its perceived complicity in the alleged aggression against the Christian clergies in Jabalpur. The matter was vociferously raised in the Lok Sabha, where opposition members even staged a walk-out. Satish Sahu, City Superintendent of Police, Ranjhi (Jabalpur) told IANS that an FIR (First Information Report) was already registered on Wednesday, and said the apprehension of the accused was imminent, contingent upon their identification through the video evidence. The police sources said that the incident transpired within the precincts of the Ranjhi station during an inquiry into allegations by members of Hindu outfits concerning the purported coercive conversion of tribals from Mandla. According the police, on March 31, two buses carrying passengers from Maharajpur of Mandla district, accompanied by a priest and a nun, were traced to the city's ecclesiastical establishments. Local factions, harbouring suspicions of conversion, alerted the police, resulting in the bus and its occupants being escorted to the station. Upon verification, the passengers professed their Christian faith whilst presenting Hindu identities in their documentation. Following this scrutiny, the buses and their passengers were permitted to proceed. Mandla, a tribal dominated district, is approximately 100 km away from Jabalpur. Bengaluru, April 5 : Karnataka BJP has declared that it will continue its protest on Saturday, demanding the inclusion of Congress MLAs A.S. Ponnanna and Manthar Gowda from Madikeri district in the FIR filed in connection with the suicide of party worker Vinay Somaiah, who died on Friday. Vinay Somaiah, a native of Madikeri district, reportedly ended his life at his office in Bengaluru, leaving behind a death note. In the note, he alleged harassment by Congress leaders and named MLAs A.S. Ponnanna, Manthar Gowda, and Congress leader Thennira Maheena as responsible for his decision. However, the Hennur police have registered the FIR naming only Thennira Maheena. Sources revealed that both the BJP and the deceased's family have decided to withhold the final rites until the two MLAs mentioned in the death note are included in the FIR. "All the names mentioned in BJP worker Vinay Somaiah's death note must be included in the FIR," demanded Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka. He further announced that BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra will visit Madikeri on Saturday and that the protest will continue. Ashoka, along with Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and Vinay Somaiah's family, submitted an additional complaint to DCP D. Devaraja demanding the inclusion of the two MLAs in the FIR. "Only one name has been mentioned in the FIR. We have insisted that two more names be added," Ashoka said, reiterating that the protest will continue until justice is delivered. He further alleged that Vinay was continuously harassed by Thennira Maheena, a close aide of the Congress MLAs, with the support of the local Superintendent of Police (SP). "These three individuals and the SP are directly responsible for his death," Ashoka charged. "He was harassed merely for forwarding a post on social media. There is evidence of this; even his death note mentions it," he added. Criticising the Congress, Ashoka stated, "They have turned police stations into Congress offices. Pressure is being exerted on the police. They are using the system to settle political scores out of vendetta." "We will decide our next course of protest after discussions with party leaders. Under no circumstances will we abandon the family. We will ensure justice is served," he assured. Chalavadi Narayanaswamy also criticised the authorities, stating, "We have never seen such irresponsibility from the police in the state." He demanded that the names of Congress MLAs Ponnanna and Manthar Gowda be included in the FIR and insisted that the Kodagu SP, who is allegedly involved, should be suspended. Former Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan questioned, "Vinay's death note clearly mentions harassment as the reason for his death. What mistake did he make?" "The harassment by the MLA and his follower is mentioned in the note," he added. "It is common sense to include those named in the FIR, as per the death note," he said, expressing frustration over what he called premature exoneration. "This is a contract government," he criticized. He further questioned, "Is this government a Congress Private Limited Company? Is it CM Siddaramaiah Private Limited? Or Home Minister G. Parameshwara Private Limited?" Vinay Somaiah's brother, Jeevan K.S., also spoke to the media, stating, "Although four names were mentioned in the complaint, only one name has been included in the FIR. We want justice." Former BJP MP Pratap Simha also weighed in, questioning the state of affairs in Madikeri. "What is the situation if a BJP worker is harassed just for criticising the Congress government? What are these two Congress MLAs doing? Both are roaming around neatly dressed, flaunting Rolex watches. They have done no development work. If a photo of a filthy public toilet is published along with MLA Ponnanna, the issue is twisted into a communal controversy." "We used to accept criticism in the right spirit and get the job done. Now, FIRs are being filed against those who raise questions. Thennira Maheena, their close associate, is threatening people. Is the Madikeri SP the personal secretary of MLA Ponnanna? We will not tolerate this anymore in Kodagu," he said. Simha demanded that an FIR be lodged against MLA Ponnanna, MLA Manthar Gowda, and Thennira Maheena. "I request the family of Vinay Somaiah to not perform the final rites until the FIR is filed against both MLAs. I appeal to our party workers to gherao these MLAs wherever they appear in the region and question them," he urged. Reacting to the BJP's allegations, Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna said, "It is not new for the BJP to politicise deaths. BJP leaders have built their careers by provoking public emotions. Though Vinay belonged to another party, I spoke to his family that is what was needed at the time. The BJP is unnecessarily interfering in this matter." Jaipur, April 5 : "We did our homework well and coordinated with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and SpiceJet for deporting the notorious criminal Aditya Jain, alias Tony, who is an active member of the Lawrence-Rohit Godara gang to Jaipur from Dubai, said Additional Director General (ADG) of Crime, Dinesh MN, speaking to IANS while sharing behind the scene story of the arrest of the gangster. Aditya was arrested by the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Rajasthan team from Dubai and brought to Jaipur on Friday morning. Jain, a key operative of the gang, was reportedly operating its "control room," providing communication support and managing dabba call facilities for gang members. He is wanted in multiple cases of extortion, firing incidents, and other crimes committed by the gang over the years, said Dinesh MN. His arrest and deportation from Dubai were the result of a meticulously planned operation, he added. "The entire process was executed flawlessly, with careful consideration of every angle. Our team ensured that all preparations were in place and each task was executed on time until the day he was brought back to Jaipur," he said, adding all protocols were duly followed. According to Dinesh MN, the Rajasthan Police approached the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in advance to request the cancellation of Jain's passport. Coordination was also established with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and SpiceJet to facilitate a smooth transfer of the accused. "Airlines are usually requested to allow either the first or last boarding/deboarding for such high-profile criminals, with a separate seating arrangement. We successfully ensured this protocol was followed," he added. The ADG emphasised the teamwork behind the successful operation, crediting multiple agencies, including the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), intelligence units, cyber teams and human aid for their coordinated efforts. When asked about the growing presence of gang-related ransom threats in Rajasthan -- previously more common in Punjab --Dinesh MN remarked, "Gangsters learn from each other." He attributed the increased gang activity in the state to the murder of history-sheeter Raju Theth, who was shot dead at the main gate of his house on Piprali Road in Sikar district a few years back. The killing was claimed by gangster Rohit Godara, who said it was in retaliation for the murder of his gang members. Godara is a known associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Dinesh MN also highlighted the recent progress made by the AGTF, established by the BJP government. "Since the formation of AGTF, gang wars have declined significantly. Several gangsters have been arrested, and incidents of gang-related firing have been reduced," he noted. He further stated that while decades ago a criminal involved in the Gold Sukh financial fraud case was extradited from Vietnam, this is the first time a hardcore gangster has been brought back to Jaipur from Dubai. He praised the efficiency of the e-filing system, noting, "The file moved in just one day -- from the Home Department to the Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister's Office and back -- enabling a swift and transparent deportation process." Jain, who was arrested in Dubai on March 31, arrived in Jaipur on April 4. Aditya Jain is also wanted in criminal cases in Punjab and is suspected of involvement in cases in Haryana and Delhi. He had fled to Dubai in January 2024. Speaking on future operations, Dinesh MN confirmed that extradition proceedings are underway for another gangster, Amarjeet Bishnoi, who is currently in Italy. "Correspondence is ongoing, and we are confident of bringing him back soon," he said. Jaipur, April 5 : Amid the ongoing protests against privatisation of power companies in the state and the Chhabra Thermal Power Plant, Rajasthan Energy Minister Heeralal Nagar told the media on Friday that the state government does not intend to privatise. He said that the joint venture with NTPC and other central undertakings is a step taken towards meeting the energy needs of the state and improving financial management. The Energy Minister said that the apprehensions of the employees regarding the service conditions have been removed. The government has made it clear that there will be no adverse effect on employee interests in any joint venture. He said: "We have discussed with the employees and assured them that neither their jobs will be affected nor will there be any change in promotion or service conditions. For this, we have instructed the CMDs of Discoms and Generation Corporations to give written assurance." On the question of the ongoing dispute over the process of giving Chhabra Thermal Power Plant as a joint venture with NTPC in 50-50 per cent share and the cost of electricity, the Rajasthan Energy Minister said: "We have clearly told the company that they should agree on the same cost at which RVUNL is working right now. If we have to get electricity at a higher cost, then why not get the work done from our own undertakings?" He told that only resources are being given to NTPC, no such decision will be taken which will increase the operating cost. We will not let the electricity prices increase. We have clearly told the company that the operation cost should be kept the same as it is now. He said: "If electricity becomes expensive then it will be meaningless. The effect of renewable energy will be seen in two years." The Energy Minister said that the government plans to reduce the cost of electricity in many ways. "We are focusing on solar and renewable energy. This will show its effect in the coming two years and the people of the state will be able to get electricity at lower rates." He said that there is a plan to provide cheap and local solar energy under the hybrid annuity model, which will benefit the discoms and reduce losses. He also added that planned efforts are also being made to strengthen the transmission and distribution system. The Energy Minister said that all the questions of the employees regarding the joint venture and MoU being made in the production sector have been removed. This is the first time that the Energy Minister has presented the government's stand in detail to the media regarding the agitation of electricity employees and the issue related to the Chhabra plant. Imphal, April 5 : In a remarkable display of coordination and prompt action, Assam Rifles along with Manipur Police rescued a private company employee within 24 hours after he was abducted by the armed cadres of an unknown outfit, an official said on Friday. A Defence spokesperson said that Assam Rifles along with Manipur Police rescued Sunil Kumar from Tollen Village in Manipuras Tamenglong district on Thursday night. Sunil Kumar was abducted on Wednesday by the armed cadres of an unknown outfit from a stone quarry near Barak River bed in proximity of Maokot village of the Tamenglong district, bordering Assam and Nagaland. Assam Rifles along with Manipur Police investigated the facts and brought the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) together to work for the quick and safe rescue of the individual. Assam Rifles carried out multiple raids throughout the night in the adjoining jungles. CSOs were also engaged to get real time information, which eventually forced the kidnappers to release the individual in an unharmed state within 24 hours, the spokesman said. The successful rescue of the individual by Assam Rifles displays the force's unwavering commitment to the safety of the local people and swift actions against the miscreants, a statement read. The security forces are investigating the incident, an official release said. The firm in which the man works is involved in road construction projects and work related to National Highway. Meanwhile, the Manipur Police arrested 11 militants belonging to various banned outfits and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition during the past 24 hours. A police officer said that four militants were arrested from Imphal East district, five from Imphal West district and one each from Bishnupur and Thoubal districts. The arrested extremists belong to proscribed PREPAK, Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), United Peopleas Party of Kangleipak (UPPK) and Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) -- all are Manipuras Valley-based outfits. The arrested militants were involved in abduction, forcible collection of money from traders, officials, and contractors, and were also issuing threat notices to people. Police officials are now interrogating the arrested extremists to know details of their activities. On April 2, a number of letters from the National Endowment for the Humanities were sent to arts and culture organizations across the country ending their previously awarded grants. The letters, which appeared on NEH letterhead and were signed by NEH acting director Michael McDonald, told recipients that their grant no longer effectuates the agency's needs and priorities and its immediate termination is necessary to safeguard the interests of the federal government, including its fiscal priorities. The letter continued: NEH has reasonable cause to terminate your grant in light of the fact that the NEH is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President's agenda. Among the thousands of organizations affected by the grant terminations are state humanities councils in all 50 states, which often fund book festivals and literacy programs, as well as a number of libraries and archives. A number of NEH grant recipients took to social media or email blasts to lament the news and seek assistance. On X, formerly Twitter, Oleh Kotsyuba, the director of print and digital publications at Harvard Ukrainian Research Institute, noted that the grant his institution received, which was terminated, was the first such federal grant we received for our publications in 40+ years. He added, in an email to PW, that the grant was supposed to help us hire an additional part-time editor to publish a bilingual anthology of Ukrainian-Jewish poetry (the first of its kind), two plays by Ukrainian modernist author Lesia Ukrainka, and a novel by Maik Yohansen, a modernist Ukrainian writer executed by Stalins NKVD in 1937. In an email blast, the organization Humanities Tennessee told its audience that all state councils received a notice of termination of their NEH grants on Thursday. The nonprofit cited free reading and book programs like the Southern Festival of Books and young writer and reader programs like Student Readers Days that connect school students with authors while providing free books, and history programs commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence as among the programs it will no longer be able to fund. While the FY 2025 budget allocates $200.1 million for the NEH, including $74.4 million for the agency's grant programs, an NEH official told NPR that no upcoming awards" will be made in fiscal year 2025. The termination of NEH grants comes about one day after the National Endowment for the Arts issued its annual report on the contribution the art and cultural sector makes to the U.S. economy. According to the report, the sector, including both commercial and nonprofit entities, added $1.2 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2023 and grew twice as fast as the overall economy between 2022 and 2023. The production generated by the sector represented 4.2% of GDP in 2023, the report found. The NEA casts a wide net in identifying what industries are part of the art and cultural sector, including overall 35 industry groups, including book publishing, in its definition. The largest arts industry in 2023 was web publishing and streaming, which includes internet publishing and broadcasting, music and film archives, comic syndicates, and news photo distribution services. Other large arts industries by value to GDP include broadcasting, government services (including arts education in public schools), traditional and software publishing, and motion picture and video industries. At a time when some government officials dismiss the arts as an expensive frill, the report said that in 2023 the arts added more to U.S. GDP than did the sectors of agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting; mining; outdoor recreation; and transportation and warehousing. And in a moment when international trade and tariffs are front and center, the report found that in 2023, the total value of the nations arts exports was nearly $37 billion greater than the value of arts imports from other countries. The sector is also an important source of employment, with nearly 5.4 million people working in the arts and cultural fields, according to the report. The annual report is a key resource in demonstrating the sheer economic power of the arts, and in acknowledging the breadth of industries that make up this sector, NEA director of research and analysis Sunil Iyengar said in a statement. Since a certain Vermont senator announced his 2016 bid for the presidency, the myth that rich people dont pay their fair share of taxes has been revived from left to right. Actually, the top 1% frequently heckled by that same Vermont senator pay nearly half of all federal income taxes. Nevertheless, political class warfare continues. Most recently, the Trump administration announced its support for a long-time priority of the Democrats: raising taxes on carried interest." The latter is a share of profits collected by investment managers as a performance fee on alternative investments such as private equity. Currently, carried interest is taxed at 20% like any other long term gains tax. The Trump administration has proposed taxing it as regular income, which would increase the rate to 37%. This might seem little more than an annoyance for finance types. In truth, it threatens progress. The perception that high earners are the only ones benefiting from the set tax rate on carry is misguided. If lawmakers succeed in this tax hike, investors of all income brackets will pay for it. To critics, such a view is an outrage surely successful asset managers should pay for their exclusive access to this wealth! Nonetheless, operating on feel-good tax policy ultimately misses the law of unintended consequences. Raising taxes on carried interest will hinder effective management of sizable investments in real American industries, from artificial intelligence funds to grocery chains. Portfolio management thrives off rewarding merit, with those achieving the greatest returns receiving a share of the pie. This encourages hard work and creates a culture of excellence. The "fairness" argument overlooks the critical role performance-based compensation plays in attracting talent to the financial sector. Carried interest is a reward to a fund manager based on how much they were able to grow an investment. Its not an employer-paid income. High-performing investment managers aren't simply collecting a paycheck; they generate returns funding public pensions, supporting critical infrastructure projects, and driving innovation across multiple sectors. Taxing their earnings more heavily actually discourages the huge risks involved in putting wealth to work. Furthermore, taxes are a price. This one raises the cost of buying and improving companies. Raising the cost of alternative investment would come with costs. Some estimates go as high as 5 million jobs lost in the next five years, and up to $3 billion in annual pension fund losses. While pushed as a David vs. Goliath, help-the-little-guy tax reform, taxing carried interest as ordinary income would chill investment activity by private equity firms, venture capital groups and real estate partnerships. Despite populist politicians' false claims, these firms are responsible for supercharging entrepreneurship and promoting competition in the economy. They arent evil or bad for everyday Americans. These investments support the creation of new businesses, creating jobs and raising tax revenue. In turn, investors whether savvy bankers in Manhattan or typical earners with 401k plans receive returns on their financial commitment. Those working day and night to strategically make these decisions shouldnt face extra tax penalties. Less investment means fewer startups, weaker pensions and slower innovation but politicians still pretend Wall Street excess can fund their wish lists. In reality, taxing carried interest like wages wont level the playing field. Itll just knee cap the industries keeping the economy running. Disney+ is previewing a new season of the animated series Phineas and Ferb, which arrives on Disney Channel June 5. ADVERTISEMENT A trailer released Thursday shows that Dr. Doofenshmirtz is "back to his evil ways," after posting on social media that he was "evil again." Dan Povenmire, who is one the show's creators, voices Doofenshmirtz. The voice cast also includes Vincent Martella, Ashley Tisdale, Thomas Sangster, Caroline Rhea, Alyson Stoner and Mitchel Musso. "Phineas and Ferb follows the inventive stepbrothers as they tackle another 104 days of summer. Candace is more determined than ever to finally bust her little brothers," an official synopsis reads. "While their pet platypus, Perry, continues to lead a double life as the suave 'Agent P,' whose sole mission is to thwart Dr. Doofenshmirtz from taking over the Tri-State Area." The show will arrive on Disney+ the day after it lands on Disney Channel. Disney/Anne Marie Fox By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 04/03/2025 ADVERTISEMENT FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. winner Juliana Pasquarosa has fired back at a troll reminding her that Grant Ellis almost stopped for Litia Garr Juliana, 28, posted a TikTok video on Tuesday, April 1 of her lipsyncing to "Just a Girl" by No Doubt.Text placed over the video read, "When u have to stay in separate hotels from your fiance bc the world doesn't know ur together yet."But Juliana shared how things have changed since she and Grant went public with their relationship -- and engagement -- in late March.Juliana proudly captioned her upload, "When your fiance comes to BOS tomorrow & you can finally stay in the same place," and Grant commented, "I can't waittttttttt."But there were also some nasty messages in the comments section."Hey remember when Grant said on television 'Should I just stop right now and pick litia?'" one person wrote, referring to how Grant had seemingly selected Litia as his winner ahead of the Final Rose Ceremony.Juliana replied, "Hey so this is a really odd thing to take time of out your day to type.. hope that helps!!!!"This isn't the first time Juliana has clapped back . She previously snapped at a fan claiming Grant only picked Juliana because the pair had slept together in the Fantasy Suite.On 's Season 29 finale that aired on March 24 on ABC, Grant blindsided and dumped Litia in second place and got engaged to Juliana at the Final Rose Ceremony in the Dominican Republic.Since the finale aired, Grant has faced backlash for allegedly leading Litia on. Litia claimed on After the Final Rose that Grant had expressed his love and confirmed they were getting engaged the very night before the Final Rose Ceremony.Litia also allegedly took jabs at Juliana by saying Juliana should have questions for Grant and she would personally never want Grant's story -- one in which a man was in love and completely torn between two women -- to be a part of her love story.But Litia isn't the only one speaking out. 29 cast has allegedly taken sides , and fans have been slamming Grant on social media. Even alum Carolina Quixano released a diss track."When Bach nation is everyone tryna get clout by taking shots and you just a Guy who's happy he found love and happy his dad is sober," Grant wrote over a TikTok video on Monday, March 31.Grant captioned the post, " Stay classy bachelor nation ."And Juliana wrote in the comments, "We stay in our own lany bby. Beyond proud of you AND your father."Grant and Juliana opened up about all the outside noise during a recent appearance on "The Viall Files" podcast."It's very easy to pick sides and make judgements... because people only see a fraction of you," Grant acknowledged when speaking with former star Nick Viall He went on to share, "One thing about Jules and I, people take low shots, and we don't really feed into that. How are we going to kill them? We're just going to win in life!"But Grant admitted he and Juliana have faced "really awkward situations," some of which have involved random strangers trash-talking them."We're the type of people who don't really entertain that. If you've got a problem with me or Jules, say it to our face. You don't make videos about it," Grant complained.Grant said this phase of their relationship will soon pass, and he added, "We're going to be on a beach somewhere having mimosas with our families and not worrying about guys making TikToks or people talking."Grant said Juliana is his top priority right now and the couple's "main concern" is making their relationship work."Right now, we are focused on us and focused on love and focused on building a life," he noted, adding how he and Juliana have decided not to listen to people.Grant and Juliana claimed all the backlash and criticism have actually made them a stronger couple."Grant has just been getting sh-t left and right all season," Juliana said with a laugh."He's been going through it and I'm like, 'It's okay! You can do this! Don't listen to them!' And then on the flipside, after AFR, I was like, 'Sh-t, I'm going through it! What do we do?!' And he was like, 'I've got you. Don't worry.'"Juliana explained that she won't accept support from anyone who doesn't also genuinely support Grant and their relationship."My stance right now is, 'If you're pro or for me, you are for Grant. You can't be for me and not support him.' We are two for one at this point, and I draw the line right there... I'm just honest!" Juliana told Nick.Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group A woman stands behind Xiang embroidery works during a culture and tourism promotional event for China's Hunan Province, in London, Britain, on April 3, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Ying) Central China's Hunan Province, known for the towering natural pillars in Zhangjiajie that inspired the movie Avatar, showcased its rich cultural and tourism resources in London on Thursday. Dozens of government officials and tourism industry representatives from China and Britain attended the promotional event, which aimed to explore potential partnerships in the fields of culture and tourism. "Tourism is a powerful way to build people-to-people and cultural connections between our two nations," said Rachael Farrington, head of tourism (government) affairs at VisitBritain, the national tourism agency. She said she was "thrilled" by the prospect of the two countries "working further together" and strengthening ties through "a shared love of travel and culture." The event spotlighted the province's deep-rooted history, stunning landscapes, and signature cuisine - all of which have made lasting impressions on international visitors, including Ben Hardy from Bristol. Hardy said he "was blown away" by his trip to Hunan in 2019, during which he made friends and experienced China's high-speed rail, traditional tea-making, Chinese calligraphy, among others. Hunan governor Mao Weiming emphasized the province's unique fusion of ancient heritage and vibrant modern culture. He invited attendees to visit Hunan, underscoring the importance of deepening cooperation and exploring fresh opportunities in the tourism market. Cultural performances by artists from both China and Britain added a dynamic touch to the event, featuring traditional Chinese instruments such as the Changde string alongside the Western cello. The Clarke County Jail hosted a graduation ceremony for participants that decided to take part in the re-entry program at around 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3. There were 17 screened participants that lived together in designated housing, Unit 6, and participated in daily classes for six weeks. There were a total of 13 graduates. The Georgia womens tennis team has been moving full speed ahead since its loss to No. 5 North Carolina, winning the ITA Indoor Tennis Championship and remaining undefeated in conference play. The 18-1 Bulldogs are under the leadership of head coach Drake Bernstein, who has experienced much success in only his second year at the helm. Investors should tilt their portfolios towards domestic-facing defensive sectors, which should help provide stability and shield them from geopolitical and tariff risks. The Indian stock market moved cautiously on Thursday, April 3, 2025 amid a global selloff as investors weighed the impact of US President Donald Trump's wave of reciprocal tariffs, which threaten world trade and supply chains. Against this backdrop, analysts suggest investors tilt their portfolios towards domestic-facing defensive sectors, which should help provide stability and shield them from geopolitical and tariff risks. Within this space, Nomura Research favours telecom, staples, food, beverage, and hospitals and healthcare. In addition to them, banks and financials, according to the brokerage, are a good play as they will be less impacted by trade tensions. Key benchmark indices recovered to end slightly lower, after tumbling nearly 1 per cent during market opening. The markets were able to recover as brokerages, such as Bernstein Research, highlighted that India would 'safely' navigate the tariff challenges imposed by the US overnight. The brokerages also said that India may even benefit from China's losses, triggering hopes for foreign inflows in the long run. Pharmaceutical products and energy exports, which collectively account for nearly $9 billion in trade, have been exempted from the new tariff structure. Copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber, gold, silver, and certain energy products and minerals are exempt from import tariffs. Those at Bernstein believe that sectors such as apparel and auto parts could see a dent in their fortunes in the backdrop of the sweeping tariffs. They added that India is protected from a competitive point of view but the risk in some sectors arises from a weakening US economy, with recession a possibility. As a strategy, Bernstein has upgraded healthcare to 'equal weight', given its limited impact, and downgraded the information technology (IT) sector to "equal weight" as US recession risk rises. Market volatility is expected to remain elevated in the near term, according to Rajesh Palviya, head of technical research at Axis Securities. He recommends increasing cash allocations by up to 10 per cent and using market dips to systematically build positions in high-quality stocks. Axis Securities remain overweight on large private sector banks, telecom, consumption, hospitals, and interest-rate proxies. Additionally, after the recent price correction, select capex-driven plays appear attractive due to their long-term domestic growth prospects, Palviya said. "Conversely, we maintain a downgrade stance on the IT sector as we anticipate continued weakness in discretionary IT spending in the US," he added. Kapil Gupta and Prateek Parekh from Nuvama, too, have maintained a preference for defensive stocks post-Trump tariffs, adding that investors should position for a global risk-off. The brokerage is overweight on cyclicals with reasonable valuations and low margins, like private banks and insurance. Consumer, telecom, and pharma are Nuvama's other favourites. Nuvama also likes cyclicals with depressed margins in cement, chemicals, and quick-service restaurant (QSR) sectors. However, the brokerage is underweight on cyclical sectors like industrials, metals, and public sector undertakings (PSUs). It also downgraded IT to underweight, given high relative valuations. The Trump administration imposed reciprocal higher tariffs on countries with which the US has the largest trade deficits, and levied a base tariff of 10 per cent on all trading countries. The US president imposed a 27 per cent tariff on imports from India, surpassing the 20 per cent levy on the European Union, 24 per cent on Japan, and 25 per cent on South Korea. Meanwhile, China faced a harsher blow, with tariffs of at least 54 per cent on many goods. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com The US wants India to recognise internationally accredited labs, harmonise labelling requirements and the validity period of test reports and certification with global practices, and eliminate retesting requirements. IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: Jeswin Thomas/Pexels The US has slammed the Communication Security Certification Scheme (ComSec), which mandates that telecommunications (telecom) equipment such as routers, WiFi access points, switches, and firewalls comply with Indian Telecom Security Assurance Requirements, in its annual report on trade barriers released on Tuesday. The 2025 National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers has criticised the high costs and regulatory hurdles associated with multiple mandatory domestic testing regimes for telecom and technology products across the board. Since 2023, the government has implemented ComSec, which requires strategically important telecom equipment to undergo third-party testing at a designated Telecom Security Testing Laboratory (TSTL) in India. "In addition to mandating testing to an outdated and country-specific standard through a limited number of approved laboratories (labs), India requires original equipment manufacturers for certain equipment to disclose proprietary information such as source code or internal test results during TSTL testing," the report by the US Trade Representative (USTR) said. The report reiterated its opposition to the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE), which has required local security testing for telecom products since 2019. In May 2021, India's Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) proposed implementing procedures for the MTCTE programme and then further expanded the scope in September 2021 to require mandatory testing for 175 products. "US industry remains concerned with the in-country testing and certification requirements. The US, bilaterally through the trade policy forum and multilaterally in the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade Committee, has urged India to reconsider its domestic testing and certification requirements," the USTR report said. The US wants India to recognise internationally accredited labs, harmonise labelling requirements and the validity period of test reports and certification with global practices, and eliminate retesting requirements. It has reiterated its demand that India accept test results from International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC)-accredited labs. ILAC is a global organisation that facilitates the mutual recognition of lab and inspection body accreditation. It helps ensure that test and calibration results are accepted worldwide by establishing a framework for cooperation among accreditation bodies. The testing labs are inspected and designated by TEC, the technical wing of the Department of Telecommunications. The TEC website showed that there are 71 such lab units across the country. TEC has also drawn up essential requirements' for as many as 65 separate types of telecom equipment. Washington, DC, also wants India to adopt the Common Criteria Recognition Arrangement, an international agreement that ensures the mutual recognition of security certifications for information technology products. The report also mentioned the Compulsory Registration Order of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity). In place since January 2014, the order mandates that manufacturers of laptops, wireless keyboards, point-of-sale machines, and other electronic equipment apply for registration with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) after getting their product tested by BIS-recognised labs. The report has argued against the need for domestic testing "even if the products have already been certified by accredited international labs". Meity had notified an order back in 2012 for the compulsory registration of 15 categories of electronic items. The coverage of the order has since been expanded to 63 product categories. 'It was the hostility of the Yunus regime that made India careful and wary of dealing with them.' 'They gradually backed off and lowered the noise, but the damage was done.' 'Their true colours had been exposed.' IMAGE: Bangladesh Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus meets Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Photograph: Kind courtesy Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh/X "Bangladesh has had a bloody history and always harboured anti-India sentiments. Whenever incumbent governments finds it is useful to stoke these sentiments, they do it for their advantage," explains Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty, India's former high commissioner to Bangladesh. In his distinguished career in the Indian Foreign Service, the ambassador served two tenures in Dhaka, first as deputy chief of mission and then high commissioner. He was also India's ambassador to Thailand and served in Cairo, Karachi, Jeddah, London and Tel Aviv. In an interview to Rediff.com's Archana Masih, Ambassador Chakravarty discusses Muhammad Yunus' visit to China, India's security concerns on the border and the consequences of Bangladesh's tilt towards China. Was Muhammad Yunus' comments interlinking the North Eastern states with China an innocuous remark offering China a mercantile opportunity to hawk its goods in the North East via Bangladesh, or does it have more sinister connotations to foment trouble? It was a naive and unwarranted statement to lure Chinese investment through projects like the Chinese Industrial Economic Zone in Bangladesh. Professor Yunus probably thinks if China starts production facilities in Bangladesh, then goods can enter India through the North East which will give a boost to Bangladesh exports. Bangladesh has duty free market access into India, but bilateral trade is not conducted in such simple terms. India will certainly impose measures like Domestic Content Requirements. He spoke about the seven sisters being landlocked which is a known fact. We don't need lessons in geography from Bangladesh. To say that Bangladesh is the 'guardian of Bay of Bengal' was a bombastic statement. Geographical vulnerabilities exist in every country. They exist in Bangladesh too and making such comments is futile. India-Bangladesh have a relationship that goes back to the war of liberation. We have to deal with each other as neighbours which we have done with every government in Dhaka. IMAGE: People gather at Bangladesh's parliament in Dhaka, February 28, 2025, for the inauguration of the National Citizen Party launched by students who were at the forefront of last year's protests that ousted then prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Photograph: Ponir Hossain/Reuters Could there be a sinister design behind these statements? I think he was mainly referring to the economic side. If there is something sinister, I would expect that to come from Pakistan and partly China. However, China has more or less stopped indulging in activities like supplying arms to insurgent groups which it had outsourced to Pakistan when the BNP-Jamaat coalition was in power till about 2006. These camps wound up and ULFA leaders, for example, who were living and doing business there, were handed over to India. That era is over. I don't think the sinister part that you mention is part of the narrative at the moment. But, of course, there is always the issue of Bangladesh handing over certain projects to China which might be of concern to India because of proximity to our borders. China will obviously use those opportunities to cause some strategic advantage for themselves either through espionage or through planting various devices. That is a worry. Dr Yunus was very effusive about China during the visit. He has also struck hospital deals thereby cutting off a major source of India's medical tourism. All that he did in Beijing appears to have been done to spite India? Why? The policies of this government are backed by anti-India elements in Dhaka like the Jamaat-e-Islami and student groups spewing anti-India rhetoric. This sentiment is reflected in the policies adopted by the Yunus regime resulting in a tilt towards China and Pakistan because they feel India has become too dominating. One must remember that this is a temporary government where everybody is hedging their bets. They may enter into agreements which could be cancelled by the next government similar to what they are saying about deals signed by the Sheikh Hasina government. There is plenty of uncertainty and that is why China hasn't offered too much during Yunus' trip. There were MoUs and expression of intent which is usually done during such high level meetings. Pakistan is no position to help economically, but, of course, they can supply arms and ammunition. I doubt we will return to that era when they were hosting Indian insurgents, but the worry of terrorism remains because Islamists are back on the streets and in power. The Yunus regime has released criminals and terrorists who are indulging in extortion and killing. Law and order has collapsed. India will have to take measures along the border or use other methods that may be required if things go out of hand. IMAGE: A March for Unity rally at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, December 31, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters What will be the consequences of Bangladesh's tilt towards China and Pakistan? There is nothing new about our smaller neighbours playing the China card to balance their relationship with other countries. However, there are limits because of their intense engagement with India. For example, Sri Lanka had tilted towards China, but returned to India's fold after realising that China has its own axe to grind. China did not help Sri Lanka like India did during the Sri Lankan economic crisis. Similarly, Bangladesh too will realise the same. Moreover, Professor Yunus has said that it is imperative to have good relations with India. At the same time, one must keep in mind that there's a lot of doublespeak in Dhaka about India. That's the emerging narrative. It is very difficult to trust the present government in Bangladesh. The atmosphere has built up because of their own actions, for example, the continuing atrocities on the minorities, Hindus and the tribal population. How do you think India played its cards after Dr Yunus came to power? Was it right in denying visas to Bangladeshis after the attacks on the minorities in their country? We handled it correctly because we knew that this government has no constitutional legitimacy and we dealt accordingly. The visas issue is not just linked to minorities. It is linked to the fact that mobs attacked our visa issuing officers which made us withdraw many Indian staff members. Unless Bangladesh provides a safe and secure environment, it's very difficult for us to send our consular staff. Hence the visas had to be curtailed and issued only in urgent cases for medical treatment, students etc. IMAGE: A mural of Sheikh Hasina vandalised by protesters in Dhaka, August 6, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters Does India's proximity to Sheikh Hasina and offering her sanctuary make it difficult for Indian diplomacy to deal with Bangladesh? Let's remember one thing -- we did not invite Sheikh Hasina. It was on the request of the Bangladesh army that she was brought here in their own aircraft. So to blame India is excessive. India-Bangladesh have an extradition treaty. Dhaka wants her extradited, but there is a process, you can't make demands and expect India to fulfil all demands. It was the hostility of the Yunus regime that made India careful and wary of dealing with them. Of course, they gradually backed off and lowered the noise, but the damage was done. Their true colours had been exposed. Therefore, our decisions were based on the atmosphere that had been built up like the organised demonstrations and threats against the Indian high commission and anti-India rhetoric. Have you seen such anti-India sentiments within the portals of governance and on the streets before? Or have we seen worse? Bangladesh has had a bloody history in terms of government changes, military coups etc, and the anti-India sentiment has always been there. When an incumbent government finds it useful to stoke these sentiments, they do it for their advantage. They naively think that India will succumb and make some more concessions. But it doesn't work like that. The current group of students are inexperienced and acting emotionally rather than in a calculated manner. It is a normal feature of smaller countries in our neighbourhood to blame India because it deflects the attention of the public from their own inadequacies and failures. IMAGE: A protest against the violence against minorities in Bangladesh. Photograph: ANI Photo What do you expect from the Modi-Yunus presence at the BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok? The official level dialogue continues -- the annual consultations on the Ganga Waters Treaty, interactions between our Border Security Force and the Border Guard Bangladesh etc. I don't know whether Modiji and Professor Yunus will meet or shake hands and walk off. We'll have to watch. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com The West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) on Friday said it would abide by the Supreme Court directive and soon initiate the process of conducting fresh exams for all teaching and non-teaching candidates, who took part in the now-invalidated 2016 job recruitment exercise. IMAGE: West Bengal government teachers watch the live telecast of state Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's comment on the Supreme Court's decision of upholding the Kolkata high court's decision to cancel 25,753 WBSSC appointments from 2016, citing fraud and manipulation, in Kolkata on Thursday. Photograph: ANI Photo Speaking to reporters a day after the apex court annulled the appointments of 25,752 teachers and staffers in state-run and state-aided schools, WBSSC chairman Siddhartha Majumdar said the commission, in view of the top court order, would seek legal advice on the eligibility of candidates who can take the fresh tests. "About 26 lakh candidates had applied for the exams in 2016 and around 22 lakh appeared for the tests. Of them, some 1.41 lakh candidates were aspirants for posts of teachers in classes 9-10 and another about 1.5 lakh candidates sat for teachers' recruitment in classes 11-12. "The rest were candidates for non-teaching posts. Although the Supreme Court has directed us to initiate the selection process for filling up the vacancies, we will need legal clarification on whether new candidates are also eligible to take part in the fresh exams," Majumdar said. The chairman, however, confirmed that given the large volume of candidates involved, the completion of the selection process within three months was unlikely. "There is no mention of a three-month deadline in the court order. This is a long process and we are unlikely to finish it within three months," Majumdar said. "We will initiate the process of starting the fresh examination of 22 lakh candidates as soon as possible. We will also send our recommendations to the school education department, but cannot share any further details at this stage," he said. While 12,905 working teachers in classes 9 and 10 in state schools lost their jobs in the wake of the Supreme Court verdict, the number of job losers in classes 11 and 12 stood at 5,712. The remaining among the nearly 26,000 affected employees are non-teaching staff in Groups C and D category. In its judgment, the apex court pulled up the WBSSC, saying it 'intentionally' covered up the lapses and illegalities in the appointment of the teachers and staffers, and upheld the Calcutta high court's findings on illegalities in the selection process on 17 counts. Asked about the commission's alleged failure to separate the tainted from the deserving candidates before the Supreme Court that led to the cancellation of appointments en masse, Majumdar said, "We did submit those figures in the form of sworn affidavits. It's a different matter, though, that we were unable to satisfy the court with our figures." To a question about completing within three months the recruitment process of those teaching and non-teaching school employees who had left their earlier workplace and sat for the 2016 recruitment exams for better postings as directed by the court, he said, "We will facilitate the process (of them for joining their previous workplace) at the earliest as per the directive." "But we don't have the figures about the total number of such candidates. They can approach us (commission) and we will compile. We will complete the process after verifying facts and figures and their previous records. It is a big exercise," he added. Majumdar said the commission has got the letter from the state for a 'prompt recruitment process' and will explore all options including creating additional vacant posts. "But we will be able to chart the next course of action and inform you (media) about our move by next week," he added. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Friday informed that the assembly resolution seeking National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) exemption for the state that was sent for Presidential assent, has been declined and called the rejection a 'dark chapter in federalism'. IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: Amit Sharma/ANI Photo Opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and slammed the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam over the NEET issue, with the former accusing the ruling party of deceiving people while the latter said the CM's 'NEET drama has ended' and challenged him to approach the Supreme Court. Speaking on the floor of the TN assembly, Stalin said the state would continue its struggle to abolish the NEET and announced a meeting of the legislature party leaders has been convened on April 9 in this connection. Informing the House about the Centre's decision, Stalin expressed disappointment over the move and said 'the rejection is a dark chapter in federalism'. The Bill proposed to allow admissions to medical courses solely based on Class 12 marks. It was passed in the Tamil Nadu assembly in 2021 and re-adopted the following year after initial objections from Governor R N Ravi. Stalin accused the Centre of disregarding the will of Tamil Nadu people and the assembly bill, too. "Despite the Tamil Nadu government furnishing all necessary clarifications through various ministries, the Union government has now rejected the exemption from NEET," he said. "Due to the implementation of NEET, the dreams of the poor and rural students of becoming a doctor have been out of reach. This will affect the medical services in rural and backward areas of the state in the future," Stalin said in his address to the House. The Tamil Nadu Admission to Undergraduate Medical Degree Courses Act, 2021 was unanimously passed in the Legislative Assembly on September 13, 2021. The Governor sent it back for reconsideration. Following this, a resolution to reintroduce the Bill in the Assembly was passed unanimously, he explained. NEET has emotional undertones in Tamil Nadu as many aspirants, either having failed to crack the entrance test or apprehensive over clearing it, have died by suicide over the past years. They include S Anita from Ariyalur district, whose death in 2017 sparked an outrage in the state. All political parties in the state barring the BJP support 'abolition' of NEET. Leader of the Opposition and AIADMK chief, Edappadi K Palaniswami accused the chief minister of doing politics on abolishing the national level screening test and said the people will give a fitting reply to the DMK in the 2026 Assembly election for misleading them. "The DMK came to power in 2021 promising to cancel NEET. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, then said he knew the secret on abrogating NEET. But nothing was done thus far. Now the chief minister has announced an all-party meeting on NEET. How long will the DMK deceive the people," the former CM asked while speaking to reporters outside the Assembly, after staging a walkout over another issue. BJP state chief K Annamalai said the NEET 'drama' of the DMK regime has come to an end and the "chapter is closed" and there are "no more chapters" for the entrance test. While they could pin the blame on Governor or President till such time the bill seeking exemption for the state was not cleared, nothing could be done now as the President has rejected the state bill and has said the reasons adduced for seeking exemption were not acceptable. Hence, 'the chief minister's NEET drama has officially come to an end. I request him to launch a new drama and for which he will hold an all party meeting. I challenge the chief minister; I ask him to go to the Supreme Court'. Annamalai said he was all along waiting for this moment, for the rejection of the state bill by the President as it would mean that the only option will be to approach the Supreme Court. "The DMK however will not go to the Supreme Court as NEET itself came to be implemented only because of the apex court...if you have courage go to the Supreme Court," he told reporters in Coimbatore. The Congress on Friday said it will "very soon" challenge in the Supreme Court the constitutionality of the Wakf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 that was passed in Parliament. IMAGE: West Bengal Congress supporters take part in a protest rally from Bidhan Bhawan to Moulali against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Kolkata, April 3, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo The Waqf (Amendment) bill was cleared by Parliament early Friday, with the Rajya Sabha giving its nod. In a post on X, AICC general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "The INC will very soon be challenging in the Supreme Court the constitutionality of the Wakf (Amendment) Bill, 2024." "We are confident and will continue to resist all assaults of the Modi Govt on the principles, provisions, and practices that are contained in the Constitution of India," he said. The discussion on the Waqf Bill in the Rajya Sabha witnessed staunch objections from opposition parties, which termed the Bill "anti-Muslim" and "unconstitutional" with the government responding that the "historic reform" would benefit the minority community. The Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 members voting in favour and 95 opposing it. It was passed in the Lok Sabha early Thursday, with 288 members supporting it and 232 against it. Ramesh said the INC's challenge of the CAA 2019 is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INC's challenge of the 2019 amendments to the RTI Act, 2005 is also being heard in the Supreme Court, he noted. "The INC's challenge to the validity of the amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules (2024) is being heard in the Supreme Court. "The INC's intervention to uphold the letter and spirit of the Places of Worship Act, 1991 is being heard in the Supreme Court," the Congress leader said. The Lok Sabha had cleared the Waqf bill early Thursday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday ordered the formation of a committee to inquire into the death of a pregnant woman after she was allegedly refused admission by Pune's leading Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital over non-payment of a deposit of Rs 10 lakh. Image only for representational purposes. The controversy escalated during the day with local political activists staging a protest outside the hospital, and the hospital claiming that the woman's relatives were making misleading allegations. A day earlier, Bharatiya Janata Party MLC Amit Gorkhe claimed in a video message that Tanisha Bhise, the wife of his personal assistant, was refused admission by the hospital. She was taken to another hospital where she died after delivering twins, he said. A statement from the Chief Minister's Office said on Friday that he had taken a serious note of the incident. "He has ordered the formation of an inquiry committee under the chairmanship of the Joint Commissioner of Charity, Pune," it said. The deputy secretary or under secretary of the Law and Justice department will be the member secretary of the committee, it added. Further, instructions have been issued to the principal secretary, Law and Justice department and the charity commissioner to ensure that the Charity Patient Scheme prepared as per the directions of the High Court is effectively implemented by all charity hospitals, the CMO said. "All charitable hospitals should seek approval from the 'Charity Hospital Help Desk' through the online system to make reserved beds available to patients from the poor and vulnerable groups," it said. The government has approved 186 posts of charitable health workers in charitable hospitals and they should be filled up immediately, the CMO statement said. Talking to reporters here, Fadnavis said it was "insensitive" on the part of the hospital to deny admission to a pregnant woman. There was a lot of anger among the people over the incident, he conceded. "Medical ethics are needed. The Chief Minister's medical cell also intervened, but the hospital did not budge," Fadnavis said. An internal inquiry report of the Mangeshkar Hospital claimed that the allegations of denial of admission for non-payment of Rs 10 lakh were 'misleading', and made 'out of frustration' by her family. The woman's pregnancy was in the high-risk category and her two underweight fetuses of seven months coupled with history of old ailment required Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) treatment for at least two months, it said. The treatment required Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh and the family was advised that in case of lack of funds, they could admit the patient to the government-run Sassoon General Hospital for a complicated surgery, it added. BJP MLC Chitra Wagh, meanwhile, came under criticism for a social media post praising the party's women's wing members who targeted a private clinic in Pune's Kothrud area belonging to Dr Shusrut Ghaisas, who works at the hospital, and vandalised it. Dr Nilima Ghaisas, his mother, said her son did not practice there. Activist Vishwambhar Choudhari criticized Wagh's remarks and claimed that the BJP-led government in the state recently allotted land to the hospital at a rent of Rs 1 per year. The deceased woman's husband was the personal assistant of a BJP Member of the Legislative Council, yet he could not do anything, Chaudhari said. From AI-enabled eCommerce to workplace wellness, marketing automation, and Asia-Pacific growth lending, indigenous startups are acquiring huge deals and enormous cheques. Heres this weeks fundraising announcements: Aussie retail tech startup Flagship secures $3.75m seed funding Flagship, creators of the first global digital visual merchandising platform, has marked key milestones in its growth journey. The startup recently secured a significant partnership with one of the largest and fastest-growing U.S. performance apparel brands. Additionally, Flagship successfully completed a $3.75M USD seed funding round, led by Coreline, Veridical Ventures, Tidal Ventures, and Macdoch Ventures. This funding will support Flagships ongoing U.S. market expansion and international growth. Space solar power startup Aetherflux raises $50M in Series A funding Aetherflux, a U.S.-based space solar power startup, has raised $50M in its Series A funding round. The round was co-led by Index Ventures and Interlagos, with participation from Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Andreessen Horowitz, and NEA. Notable individual investors, including Vlad Tenev, Dan Gallagher, Jared Leto, and luxury watchmakers Laurent and Francois-Paul Journe, also participated. This new funding brings Aetherfluxs total capital raised to $60M. Founded in 2024 by Baiju Bhatt, co-founder of Robinhood Markets, Aetherflux is developing a technology using small satellites to transmit power through infrared lasers. SoftBank and OpenAI announce $40 billion investment SoftBanks announcement of its $40 billion investment in OpenAI has set a new record in the startup financing world. This unprecedented deal dwarfs all other startup funding rounds, including Microsofts $10 billion financing for OpenAI in 2023, which was structured as a strategic partnership rather than a traditional funding round. The investment marks SoftBanks largest-ever startup financing. In recent months, Databricks also raised a $10 billion round, confirming its $62 billion valuation. Quantum startup IQM in talks to raise over 128m Finnish quantum hardware startup IQM is set to raise more than 128M in its next funding round, following a series of technical breakthroughs in the sector. Founded in 2018, IQM is currently Europes second best-funded quantum hardware company, excluding Big Tech. The company has raised a total of $210M from investors including Tencent, World Fund, and MIG Capital, and is rapidly scaling to capitalize on the increasing demand for quantum computing innovations. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. India and Sri Lanka are expected to come out with around 10 ambitious outcomes including enhancing cooperation in areas of defence, energy security and digitalisation following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives a warm welcome from the members of the Indian community on his arrival, in Colombo on Friday. Photograph: ANI Photo Modi landed in the Sri Lankan capital this evening to a rousing welcome as five top Sri Lankan ministers, including Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, and Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar received the prime minister at the Bandaranaike airport. 'Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programmes in Sri Lanka,' Modi said on 'X'. The prime minister, who arrived here after concluding a two-day trip to Thailand, was accorded a warm welcome by a group of Indian-origin people at the Taj Samudra, the hotel he is staying. Modi, on a three-day visit to Sri Lanka, will be the first foreign leader to be hosted by Dissanayake in his capacity as the president. The prime minister last visited Sri Lanka in 2019. The prime minister and the Sri Lankan president will hold one-on-one and delegation-level talks on Saturday which are expected to produce at least 10 outcomes including a defence cooperation agreement and frameworks for deeper engagement in the energy sector. If signed, the MoU on defence cooperation is set to signal a major upward trajectory in India-Sri Lanka defence leaving behind the bitter chapter relating to India pulling out the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) from the island nation around 35 years ago. The prime minister's visit to Sri Lanka comes at a time the island nation is showing signs of recovery from the economic stress. The country was reeling under a massive economic crisis three years back and India extended financial assistance worth USD 4.5 billion. After the talks between Modi and Dissanayake, two documents facilitating India's assistance to Sri Lanka on debt restructuring and another one on currency swap are likely to be made public. The two sides are also expected to seal separate pact on cooperation in the digital domain. Modi is also scheduled to lay a wreath at the IPKF (Indian Peace Keeping Force) memorial on Saturday. In an interview with PTI, Indian High Commissioner to Colombo Santosh Jha said New Delhi's assistance to the island nation was "unprecedented" in terms of India's assistance to any country in the world. "It was a huge bit of assistance and we are continuing to work with Sri Lanka in providing it assistance in various areas and that is much appreciated here," Jha said. "India was the first to provide financial assurances for the IMF to take a decision to provide Sri Lanka with the extended fund facility that is currently under operation in Sri Lanka," he said. "We also were the first to provide assurances on our side to be ready to restructure the debts. We joined the official creditor committee along with France and Japan to co-chair it," the high commissioner added. Jha, recalling the Sri Lankan president's visit to India in December last, said the agenda of cooperation will be taken forward during PM Modi's trip the island nation. "We are taking forward the elements of that understanding and adding new agenda to the relationship because you all know that India and Sri Lanka are closest of maritime neighbours," he said. The relationship is very important for us given our shared history, geography, our cultural ties, he added. "There is an understanding between the two countries that we have a shared future ahead of us," he said. In Colombo, Modi and Dissanayake will dedicate several projects that are being built in that country with India's assistance. The two leaders will also witness the virtual ground breaking of the Sampur solar energy project. This is in many senses going to be a milestone in the bilateral partnership, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said last week. Modi is also scheduled to meet several political leaders. On April 6, Modi and Dissanayake will travel together to the historic city of Anuradhapura where they will pay their respects at the Mahabodhi temple. They will also jointly inaugurate two India-assisted projects there. In his first meeting with Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged concerns over the attacks on minorities, including Hindus and conveyed that any rhetoric that vitiated the environment was best avoided. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. Photograph: @ChiefAdviserGoB/X Modi met Yunus, Myanmar's Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Nepal's Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay on the sidelines of the 6th summit of the leaders of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral and Technical Cooperation (BIMSTEC) grouping in Bangkok. During the 40-minute meeting with Yunus, Modi also underscored India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. At the meeting, Yunus also flagged the issues of the extradition of deposed Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina and border killings. This was the first meeting between Modi and Yunus since Hasina's ouster in August last year. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval were also present during the meeting. The Prime Minister told Yunus that the strict enforcement of the law and prevention of illegal border crossings, especially at night, are necessary for maintaining border security and stability. Modi also met Myanmar's Senior General Min and told him that India was ready to offer more help to the country after the recent earthquake and pushed for 'credible and inclusive elections' to resolve the conflict there. This was the Prime Minister's first interaction with Senior General Min, who came to power in a military coup in February 2021 displacing the democratically elected Aung San Suu Kyi's government. The prime minister also underlined the importance of early restoration of the democratic process in Myanmar, including through credible and inclusive elections, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told reporters here about Modi's meeting with Min. Modi also met Nepal's Prime Minister Oli, who is facing pro-monarchy protests in the Himalayan nation. The Prime Minister said he had a productive meeting with Oli. 'India attaches immense priority to relations with Nepal. We discussed different aspects of India-Nepal friendship, especially in sectors like energy, connectivity, culture and digital technology,' Modi said in a post on X. Oli described the meeting as intimate and said he was delighted to meet Modi. In a post on X, the Nepali prime minister also said that he had a meaningful and positive conversation with Modi. The two leaders reviewed the unique and close relationship between India and Nepal and expressed satisfaction at the progress in enhancing physical and digital connectivity, people-to-people linkages, and in the domain of energy, a PMO statement said. Modi also met Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit. 'Had a great conversation with my good friend, PM Tobgay. India's friendship with Bhutan is robust. We are cooperating extensively in several sectors,' Modi said in a post on X. "Always a pleasure to meet my elder brother and mentor PM @narendramodi ji. Discussed BIMSTEC, enhancing regional cooperation, and furthering Bhutan - India friendship," Tobgay said on his meeting with Modi. Earlier on Thursday, Modi held delegation-level talks with his Thai counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra. India and Thailand decided to elevate their relations to the level of a strategic partnership with Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserting that both the countries support a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, and believe in a policy of development, not expansionism. Modi made the remarks at a joint press event with Paetongtarn Shinawatra after holding the delegation-level talks. "We have emphasised cooperation in the fields of tourism, culture, and education between India's northeastern states and Thailand. We discussed enhancing mutual trade, investment, and exchanges between businesses," Modi said about his talks with Shinawatra. Congress member of Parliament Mohammad Jawed and All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president Asaduddin Owaisi on Friday challenged the validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 in the Supreme Court, saying it violated constitutional provisions. IMAGE: People hold a protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, in Kolkata on Friday. Photograph: ANI Photo Jawed's plea alleged the bill imposed 'arbitrary restrictions' on Waqf properties and their management, undermining the religious autonomy of the Muslim community. The petition, filed through advocate Anas Tanwir, said the proposed law discriminated against the Muslim community by 'imposing restrictions that are not present in the governance of other religious endowments'. Owaisi's plea was filed by advocate Lzafeer Ahmad. The bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 members voting in favour and 95 opposing it. It was passed in the Lok Sabha early April 3 with 288 members supporting it and 232 against it. Jawed, a Lok Sabha MP from Kishanganj in Bihar, was a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the bill and alleged in his plea that the it 'introduces restrictions on the creation of Waqfs based on the duration of one's religious practice'. 'Such a limitation is unfounded in Islamic law, custom or precedent and infringes upon the fundamental right to profess and practice religion under Article 25,' it said. The plea claimed the restriction discriminated against persons who had recently converted to Islam and wish to dedicate property for religious or charitable purposes, thereby violating Article 15 of the Constitution. Article 15 deals with prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth. The plea said an amendment to the composition of the Waqf Board and the Central Waqf Council mandated inclusion of non-Muslim members in Waqf administrative bodies, which was an 'unwarranted interference' in religious governance unlike Hindu religious endowments, which remain exclusively managed by Hindus under various state enactments. 'This selective intervention, without imposing similar conditions on other religious institutions, is an arbitrary classification and violates Articles 14 and 15,' it said. It said the enhanced role of state authorities in Waqf administration impinged on the right of Muslim community to manage its institutions. The bill shifts key administrative functions, such as the power to determine the nature of Waqf properties, from the Waqf Board to the district collector, the plea said. 'This transfer of control from religious institutions to government officials dilutes the autonomy of Waqf management and contravenes Article 26(d),' it said. The plea said the proposed law also modified the process of dispute resolution by altering the composition and powers of the Waqf tribunals. 'It reduces representation of individuals with expertise in Islamic law, influencing the adjudication of Waqf-related disputes,' it said. The plea claimed this change disproportionately affected willingness to resort to legal recourse through specialised tribunals, in contrast to the robust protections provided to other religious institutions under their respective endowment laws. 'These amendments undermine property rights protected under Article 300A,' it alleged. By expanding state control over Waqf assets, the plea said, it limited the ability of persons to dedicate property for religious purposes. Subjecting Waqf properties to heightened scrutiny, the bill goes against the apex court's 1954 decision which held that transferring control of religious property to secular authorities was an infringement of religious and property rights. The plea claimed the bill omitted the concept of 'Waqf-by-user'. The doctrine of 'Waqf-by-user' was duly affirmed in the apex court's verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute case of Ayodhya, it added. The plea said the verdict held that a property may attain status of Waqf through long-standing religious use. By removing this provision, the bill disregards established legal principles and limits the ability of the Waqf Tribunal to recognise properties as Waqf based on historical usage, violating Article 26 which guarantees religious denominations the right to manage their own affairs, it added. The knife fragment that got lodged near the spine of actor Saif Ali Khan during the attack on him at his Bandra home as well as a part found at the scene of crime have matched with the weapon recovered from accused Mohammad Shariful Islam, police told a Mumbai court on Friday. IMAGE: Actor Saif Ali Khan reaches his home after being discharged from the hospital. Photograph: ANI Photo The three pieces were part of the same weapon used to attack the actor, the police said while opposing the bail plea of the accused. The actor was repeatedly stabbed with a knife by an intruder inside his 12th floor apartment in upscale Bandra on January 16. Khan (54) underwent an emergency surgery at Lilavati Hospital to remove a piece of knife that got lodged near his spine following the attack. He was discharged after five days. Shariful Islam, a Bangladeshi national, was held two days later. The police, in its written response to the bail plea, cited a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report. The piece of knife recovered from the accused, the one found at the scene of crime and the third part lodged near Khan's spine were sent for weapon inquiry to a medical officer, who has given a report stating the pieces matched and are from the same weapon, the police's written response stated. The three pieces were further sent for CA (chemical analysis) examination at the Forensic Science Laboratory in Kalina in Mumbai, the police said. The FSL report stated that all three pieces are part of the same knife, the police said in its submission. Thus, strong evidence has been obtained against the applicant accused, and a chargesheet will be filed against him, the reply said. The police also opposed the bail plea by stating that the accused is a Bangladeshi citizen residing illegally in India and that there was possibility of him absconding. If the applicant accused is released on bail, there is a possibility that he may lure or influence the complainant and witnesses through enticement or other means, the police said. The possibility of him repeatedly committing such types of crimes cannot be ruled out, the police told court. Police also said the offence was very 'serious in nature' and 'strong evidence' is available against the accused. The accused, in his bail plea filed through advocate Ajay Gawali, claimed the 'FIR is patently false and a false case has been registered against him'. The probe in the case was practically over and only the chargesheet was yet to be filed, said the bail application, claiming the accused had co-operated with the investigation and 'no useful purpose will be served by detaining him further in custody'. The matter will be next heard on April 9. After being stranded for more than 40 hours at a Turkey airport, over 250 Virgin Atlantic passengers, including Indians, landed at the Mumbai airport late in the evening on Friday. Image used only for representational purposes. Photograph: Courtesy @VirginAtlantic/X The passengers were stuck at the Diyarbakir Airport in Turkey after their Mumbai-bound aircraft from London was diverted to the airport on Wednesday. Sources said the flight landed at around 9 pm at the Mumbai airport. "With all necessary technical approvals now secured, the plane departed Diyarbakir Airport at 13:00 local time on Friday 4th April, operating as flight VS1358. Customers are now en route to Mumbai, with an expected arrival at approximately 20:49 local time," the spokesperson said in a statement earlier in the day. Over 250 passengers were stuck at the airport. An A350-1000 aircraft was operating the flight that has over 300 seats, according to sources. "We're sorry that Virgin Atlantic flight VS358 from London Heathrow to Mumbai on 2nd April was disrupted following an urgent medical diversion to Diyarbakir Airport in Turkey. "Due to the nature of the landing, the aircraft required extensive technical inspection before the aircraft was cleared to operate. The safety and security of our customers and crew remains our highest priority, and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and prolonged delay," the spokesperson said in the statement on Friday. A passenger, who was among those stranded at the airport, told PTI on Thursday that all passengers were sitting on the floor, and there were no blankets available. Also, there was no vegetarian food available, the passenger said on condition of anonymity. The spokesperson also said the passengers were provided with overnight hotel accommodation on Thursday evening. Parliament early Friday approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after the Rajya Sabha gave its nod to the contentious legislation following an over 13-hour debate. Photograph: Screen grab/Sansad TV The discussion witnessed staunch objections from opposition parties, which termed the Bill "anti-Muslim" and "unconstitutional" with the government responding that the "historic reform" would benefit the minority community. The Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 members voting in favour and 95 opposing it. It was passed in the Lok Sabha early Thursday, with 288 members supporting it and 232 against it. Parliament also approved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025, with the Rajya Sabha giving its nod. The Lok Sabha has already given its assent to the Bill. Participating in the discussion, Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju accused the Congress and other opposition parties of scaring the Muslim community with the Bill and asserted that the central government worked for all with the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. Rijiju said the Waqf Board is a statutory body and, as such, like all government bodies, it should be secular. He said the inclusion of a few non-Muslims on the Waqf Board would not alter the decisions of the body and instead would add value. The minister also claimed that the Bill brought by the government has incorporated several suggestions made by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) as well as the stakeholders. The Opposition INDIA bloc parties opposed the Bill, alleging that it was "unconstitutional" and aimed at targeting Muslims. They claimed that the aim of the legislation was to take over the properties of Muslims and hand them to corporations. Leaders of several opposition parties, including the Congress, the TMC, the DMK, the AAP, the Shiv Sena (UBT), the Samajwadi Party, the RJD, and Left parties, alleged that the Bill was brought by the government with mala fide intentions. Some of them also demanded the withdrawal of the Bill. Intervening in the discussion, Leader of the House and BJP leader J P Nadda said the Bill is not against Muslims and claimed that it is aimed at helping the poor and protecting the rights of Muslim women. Nadda accused the Congress of making Muslim women second-grade citizens during its rule at the Centre. "You made the Indian Muslim ladies second-grade citizens," Nadda said, referring to the Congress party and added, "It was only India where Muslim women were not brought into the mainstream." While triple talaq was banned in Muslim countries such as Egypt, Sudan, Bangladesh, and Syria several years ago, the Congress-led UPA government did nothing for Muslim women while it was in power for a decade. "We believe in real service, not lip service...I stand in support of the (Waqf) Bill as its sole purpose is to bring reforms in managing the Waqf properties," Nadda said. Rijiju said the Waqf Board is a statutory body and all government bodies should be secular. Explaining the inclusion of non-Muslims on the Board, he said the number of non-Muslims has been restricted to only four out of 22. He also accused the Congress and other opposition parties of "pushing Muslims out of the mainstream." For 60 years, he alleged, the Congress and others ruled the country but did not do much for the welfare of Muslims, who continue to remain poor. Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge said the government is trying to sow the seeds of conflict by suppressing Muslims through the Bill and appealed to the ruling party not to disturb peace and harmony in the country. Kharge, also the Congress president, said the legislation is "unconstitutional" and not good for Indian Muslims. He urged the government to withdraw the Bill which has a lot of "mistakes" and not make it a prestige issue. He also accused the NDA government of trying to create trouble for Muslims, claiming that the Bill seeks to destroy the community by usurping their properties. Earlier, initiating the debate, Congress MP Syed Naseer Hussain termed the proposed legislation "unconstitutional" and alleged that it targets the Muslim community. He also accused the BJP of using the proposed legislation to trigger communal tension and polarisation in the society to strengthen its vote bank. He alleged that the Bill seeks to treat Muslims as "second-class" citizens in the country. Hussain also noted that the BJP-led government was trying to bulldoze the legislation in the Upper House. Manoj Jha of the RJD said the "content and intent" of the Bill puts a question mark on the government's motives. He also said the government should send the Bill to the select committee of Parliament once again. Jha alleged the Bill was akin to "dog whistle politics" to keep Muslims away from the mainstream. Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav emphasised all religions must be treated with respect and the government must prevent India from "shifting towards a totalitarian state." He said India has a huge population of minorities, especially Muslims and if a large section of people feel that injustice has been meted out to them, any efforts to appease them will not work. John Brittas of the CPI(M) said the Bill was an attack on the Constitution. "It attacks the basic tenets of India's Constitution, its secularism, democracy, and equality. There is a cardinal violation happening. They have already discriminated against people by segregating them. They are now segregating God from God. Hindu God from Allah," he said. Y V Subba Reddy of the YSRCP too opposed the Bill, saying it was "unconstitutional". Congress member Abhishek Singhvi said the Bill has omitted the concept of 'Waqf by user', at least prospectively, by disallowing Waqfs to be created based on uninterrupted usage over a significant period. "This is a deliberate attempt by the government to further its own agenda by minimising protection conferred upon Waqf properties with the right hand and significantly increase its own control and power to permanently claim these properties with its left hand," Singhvi alleged. Independent MP Kapil Sibal said non-Muslims could earlier form the Waqf Board too, but this Bill does not allow that anymore. He said there should be reform in the Hindu religion and questioned why only one community was being targeted. "Bring a law to ensure that women have rights in bequeathing property," he said, urging the government to make a commitment in the House that it would bring a law to maintain the rights of daughters. While BJD's Muzibulla Khan said Muslims were concerned over the inclusion of non-Muslims on the Waqf Board, party leader Sasmit Patra said the BJD had not issued any whip to its MPs and they were free to vote of their own will. DMK leader Tiruchi Siva said his party opposes the Bill as it is legally flawed. "I stand on behalf of my party to oppose this Bill... We reject the Bill in its entirety because it is legally flawed, constitutionally indefensible and morally reprehensible," he stated. "Why is a certain community being targeted is our question?" Siva asked. The intention of the government is mala fide and deplorable, and the DMK is certain that the Supreme Court will strike the Bill down, Siva said. AAP member Sanjay Singh said the Bill is against the tenets of the Indian Constitution, and alleged that the government wants to control Muslim religious bodies through the legislation. Singh noted that after Muslims, the government will target other religious bodies of the Sikhs, Christians, and Jains and hand them over to their "friends". Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut spoke against the Bill and questioned the government's intent. "Why is the government so worried about poor Muslims?" Raut said, accusing the NDA of diverting attention from US President Donald Trump's announcement of reciprocal tariffs on India. India and Sri Lanka are expected to come out with around 10 outcomes, including boosting cooperation in areas of defence, energy security and digitalisation, following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets as he departs for Sri Lanka from Bangkok, in Thailand on Friday. Photograph: ANI Photo Modi is arriving in the Sri Lankan capital on Friday evening after concluding his trip to Bangkok where he attended a summit of the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation). The prime minister will be the first foreign leader to be hosted by Dissanayake in his capacity as the Sri Lankan president. Modi last visited Sri Lanka in 2019. An agreement on defence cooperation is likely to be among seven pacts expected to be finalised besides three more outcomes, people familiar with the matter said. If signed, the MoU on defence cooperation is set to signal a major upward trajectory in India-Sri Lanka defence, leaving behind the bitter chapter relating to India pulling out the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) from the island nation around 35 years ago. The prime minister's visit to Sri Lanka comes as the island nation shows signs of recovery from the economic stress. The country was reeling under a massive economic crisis two years back and India extended financial assistance worth $4.5 billion. After the talks between Modi and Dissanayake, two documents facilitating India's assistance to Sri Lanka on debt restructuring and currency swap are likely to be made public. In an interview with PTI, Indian High Commissioner to Colombo Santosh Jha said New Delhi's assistance to the island nation was "unprecedented" in terms of India's assistance to any country in the world. "It was a huge bit of assistance and we are continuing to work with Sri Lanka in assisting in various areas and that is much appreciated here," Jha said. "India was the first to provide financial assurances for the IMF to decide to provide Sri Lanka with the extended fund facility currently under operation in the country," he said. "We were also the first to provide assurances on our side to be ready to restructure the debts. We joined the official creditor committee along with France and Japan to co-chair it," the high commissioner added. Jha, recalling the Sri Lankan president's visit to India in December last year, said the cooperation agenda would be taken forward during Modi's trip to the island nation. "We are taking forward the elements of that understanding and adding new agenda to the relationship because you all know that India and Sri Lanka are closest maritime neighbours," he said. The relationship is important for us given our shared history, geography, and cultural ties, he added. "There is an understanding between the two countries that we have a shared future ahead of us," he said. In Colombo, Modi and Dissanayake will dedicate several projects being built in the island nation with India's assistance. The two leaders will also witness the virtual groundbreaking of the Sampur solar energy project. This is in many senses going to be a milestone in the bilateral partnership, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said last week. Modi is also scheduled to meet several political leaders. On April 6, Modi and Dissanayake will travel to the historic city of Anuradhapura to pay their respects at the Mahabodhi temple. They will also jointly inaugurate two India-assisted projects there. Puzzled about the Waqf Bill? Syed Firdaus Ashraf explains how the amended Waqf law will plug loopholes in the existing legislation. IMAGE: Muslims protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill in Kolkata. Photograph: ANI Photo What exactly is the meaning of Waqf? Waqf means 'charitable endowment' for Muslims, whereby a person donates his land for religious purposes or social welfare. What is the controversy over the Waqf amendments? The Modi government brought in a new bill to replace the Waqf Act 2013 to ensure a transparent way of working of the Waqf board. Opposition parties allege that the government has brought in the new bill to harm the interests of the Muslim community by 4 Ds: Dilute, Defame, Divide, Disenfranchise. How does the new Waqf bill change the role of the Waqf Board? According to the government, the Waqf Board will from now on identify people who illegally sell off Waqf properties. The board will also target people who give out Waqf properties on long term lease for personal gain. This will ensure better earnings for the Waqf Board, which has seen a steady decline in its revenues. What will non-Muslims do on the Waqf Board? Under the new legislation non-Muslims will be a part of the Waqf Board; however their role will be restricted solely to administration of charity-related matters. The non-Muslim members appointed to the Waqf Board will not be involved in the religious activities of Muslims. What did Home Minister Amit Shah say about non-Muslims becoming a part of the Waqf Board? Amit Shah told the Lok Sabha, 'In Waqf, there are Waqif (donor) and Mutawalli (administrator), who are followers of Islam. He pointed out that the word Waqf itself comes from Islam, so only those who follow Islam can manage Waqf.' Shah further clarified that while Waqf is a religious matter, the Waqf Board or Waqf properties themselves are not religious institutions. Who can declare a property as a Waqf property? Only those who are practising Muslims for at least five years can dedicate his or her property to Waqf. And if anyone declares a property as Waqf s/he will have to have the claim verified by a district collector. Power of Collector Whenever a piece of land is purchased for a temple, it is the collector who determines its ownership. Earlier, the collector had no power or authority to verify whether the Waqf land belonged to the government or not. Now, s/he has the power to do so. Previously, surveys were conducted by survey commissioners and additional commissioners. Under the new Bill, the district collector will oversee Waqf land surveys, aligning them with state revenue laws. What happens to government property declared as Waqf? The bill states that any government property identified as Waqf will cease to be so. The collector of the area will determine ownership in case of uncertainty, and submit a report to the state government. If deemed government property, s/he will update the revenue records. In other words, the new bill makes it clear: If a government property was mistakenly recorded as Waqf, it will no longer be considered as Waqf land. In case of dispute, the district collector, not the Waqf Board, will have the final say, and the matter will be handled under state revenue laws. No land will become Waqf merely by declaration In other words, Waqf cannot acquire private property without having ownership of the same. The new Waqf bill ensures that the law will protect the private land if the Waqf Board tries to intervene and acquire it. Courts' role Under the old law, high court intervention in Waqf disputes was allowed only under special circumstances. The new Bill makes it easier to challenge Waqf tribunal decisions and appeals can be filed in the high court within 90 days.] The central government's power over the Waqf administration has also increased. The central government can make rules on Waqf registration, accounts, and audits, which will be conducted either by the Comptroller and Auditor General or a designated officer. 'When the Bill was passed all have been exposed. There is no difference between communal and secular.' IMAGE: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar offers Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at a mosque in Patna, March 31, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Contrary to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal-United's official line that the Waqf Bill is not anti-Muslim and will benefit Pasmanda Muslims (backward Muslims), JD-U Muslim leaders assert that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, that was passed by Parliament, is anti-Muslim and Pasmanda Muslims will not benefit from the legislation. While supporting the Bill in the Lok Sabha, senior JD-U leader and Union Minister Lalan Singh on April 2 said the Waqf Bill is not anti Muslim. But Muslim leaders in the JD-U are unhappy and angry over their party's stand. Senior JD-U leader Mohammad Qasim Ansari said Nitish Kumar has disappointed thousands of Muslims by supporting the Waqf Bill. "We were shocked by the JD-U's stand on the Waqf Bill. The fact is that the Waqf Bill is against Muslims and is anti Muslim. We will not accept the Bill because it violates the basic rights given by the Constitution. The Waqf Bill is anti Pasmanda Muslim as well. Neither Nitishji nor the party felt it," says Ansari, who is himself a Pasmanda Muslim. On Thursday, Ansari resigned from the JD-U in protest against the party's support for the Waqf Bill. Another JD-U leader Shajnawaz Malik resigned the party for its support to the Waqf Bill. Malik was the JD-U's Jamui district president. "I was against the Waqf Bill before it was passed and I am still against it. There is no question of a change in my stand," says Janata Dal-United MLC Gulam Gaus. Gaus had told this correspondent earlier this week that the JD-U was against the Waqf Bill and had sounded hopeful that Nitish Kumar, the JD-U president, would oppose the proposed legislation. Gulam Gaus, who is also a Pasmanda Muslim, stayed silent when this correspondent asked him on Thursday if he will now protest against the JD-U stand. Another JD-U leader Ahmad Ashfaque Karim, who spoke out against the Waqf Bill, refused to comment after Parliament passed the Bill with his party's support. Senior JD-U leader Ghulam Rasul Balyavi says he will challenge the Waqf Bill in the Supreme Court. "When the Bill was passed all have been exposed," Balyavi said. "Now there is no difference between communal and secular." "I appealed to Nitish Kumar," Balyavi added, "but nothing happened." IMAGE: Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan 'Lalan' Singh speaks in the Lok Sabha, April 2, 2025. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Photo The Bihar government sounded a high alert in the state on Thursday following Parliament's approval of the Waqf Bill. The Bihar police headquarters has directed superintendents of police of all districts to be on alert and monitor the situation closely. The alert is related to intelligence reports that some protest may take place against the Bill. Last month on a call issued by the Patna-based Imarat-e-Shariah, an influential Muslim body working for the rights and empowerment of the Muslim community in Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha, Muslims collectively boycotted the Iftar party hosted by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at his residence. Thereafter, the Imarat-e-Shariah organised a protest in Patna along with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board on March 26 to oppose the Waqf Bill, particularly Nitish Kumar and the JD-U's support for it. This was the first major expression of Muslim unhappiness against Nitish Kumar in recent years. Muslims constitute about 17.7 percent of Bihar's population and are considered traditional supporters of the Rashtriya Janata Dal, the party founded by Lalu Prasad, but roughly 25 to 30 percent of Muslims reportedly supported the JD-U in consecutive elections because of Nitish Kumar's presence at its helm. In Bihar's caste-dominant politics, Muslim support can make or mar the final electoral outcome. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com Donald Trumps plans to tariff Vietnamese goods have sparked concern among exporters who fear their competitiveness will be eroded and American buyers will choose to import from other countries. "The situation is tense," Nguyen Dinh Tung, chairman of fruit exporter Vina T&T Group said upon learning that Vietnam will be subject to a 46% reciprocal tariff. Lach Huyen Port in Hai Phong City, northern Vietnam, January 2025. Photo by VnExpress/Le Tan Tungs company has for years selling fruits to the U.S. and paying low tariffs, except on durian, whose rate is up to 16%. Last year the U.S. imported $360 million worth of fruits and vegetables from Vietnam, of which Vina T&T Group accounted for $62 million. But the new tariffs could hit his company if American buyers switch to produce from markets with lower tariffs. "U.S. importers might turn to Thailand and other countries to source products, as a tariff hike of almost 50% will be a major cost burden, especially during an economic downturn." The U.S. has for long been a major trade partner for Vietnam, which last year exported goods worth $119.5 billion and imported $15.1 billion worth. The top export items are computers and electronics, machinery and equipment, garments and textiles, smartphones, wood products, and footwear. These sectors will likely be hurt when the new tariffs come into effect within days, Le Duy Binh, CEO of consultancy firm Economica Vietnam, said. Companies in supply chains in top export categories would be hit, he added. Vietnam is among the group of countries subject to the highest tariffs. China, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Myanmar also face tariffs of 34-49%. Nguyen Minh Duc, an expert in public policy, said the new tariffs would be a disadvantage for Vietnam since competitors in Thailand would only have to pay 36%. The tariffs are 32% for Indonesia and 17% for the Philippines, he pointed out. "Electronics, garments, footwear, and furniture exporters in Vietnam will have to pay around 46% in tariffs within a week." Hoang Anh Tuan, Vietnams consul general in San Francisco, said in a social media post that Trumps new policy reflects his administrations push to reduce the $1.2 trillion trade deficit the U.S. recorded last year. He explained that the tariff formula hinges on trade deficits, shifting from industry-specific to country-specific rates based on bilateral trade imbalances such as with Vietnam and China. He added that Trump views these "reciprocal" tariffs as half of what the U.S. calculated, signaling flexibility and room for bilateral talks. Some products would be exempt from the reciprocal tariffs. Aluminum, steel, cars, and auto parts, previously hit with a 25% U.S. tariff, will continue to attract that rate. Gold, copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, wood, and certain energy and mineral products unavailable in the U.S. will also be unaffected. To restore Vietnams competitiveness, Binh urged the government to close the tariff gap with other nations, diversify export markets and bolster the domestic market. "Many countries have sought to maintain a reasonable export share while elevating their domestic market as a pillar of the economy." He said the government could cut business administrative costs and support firms further. He proposed increasing imports from the U.S. of items such as technology products to bring down the tariffs. Vietnam has negotiating leverage since the government could increase purchases of U.S. helicopters, airplanes, energy, and electrical equipment, he said. Tran Huu Linh, director general of the Domestic Market Management and Development Agency, under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, said measures to stimulate domestic consumption would be rolled out by studying policies in China and Thailand. His agency is also working to ease regulatory obstacles faced by businesses, he added. Aimee Parnell has been on the job at the Waypoint Center for about a month, and her enthusiasm as the new executive director of the Great Fall Don't miss the big stories. Like us on Facebook. Mike Mrowicki, D, is a state representative for the Windham 4 District in the Vermont House. The opinions expressed by columnists and op-ed writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media. Fisher & Paykel Healthcare manufactures approximately 45% of its volume in Mexico and approximately 55% in New Zealand, and for the first half of the 2025 financial year approximately 43% of the companys revenue came from the US. However, almost all of these products were compliant with the US, Mexico and Canada trade agreement. Approximately 60% of the companys US volumes were supplied from Mexico and approximately 40% from New Zealand. The company did not anticipate a material impact from the US tariffs on its net profit for the 2025 financial year, which ended 31 March. However, for the 2026 financial year, the company said its costs would likely increase due to the tariffs. Fishing giant Sanford said it generated around $117 million of revenue out of total revenue of $583 million, or around 20%, from sales into the US market in 2024. We have discussed the possible impact from tariffs with our key US customers, managing director David Mair said. As always, the impact depends on who pays. At this time, we do not expect these tariffs to have a material effect on the performance of Sanford in FY25. Tourism Holding reported there was uncertainty regarding the extent to which various tariffs imposed by the United States may impact the North American recreational vehicle industry, including any potential retaliatory tariffs imposed by Canada that could impact vehicles imported from manufacturers in the United States. THL said it was closely monitoring the situation and would provide a further update on the implications for its business once there was more clarity. However, a decline in consumer sentiment for inbound travel to the United States in recent weeks had already resulted in a slowdown in international booking intakes for the upcoming peak season. It was too early to determine if the current slowdown would have a lasting impact on the United States high season. Rubber manufacturing specialist Skellerup said it generated 35% of revenue from sales in the US market. Around 85% of this came from products manufactured at the companys own and partner facilities in New Zealand, China and Vietnam. CEO Graham Leaming said due to actions already taken to increase inventory held in-market, along with pricing and cost initiatives he did not expect the new tariffs to have a material impact on the companys 2025 results. While, the new tariffs would increase costs in future financial years, Skellerup expected to offset a significant proportion of these costs through a combination of continuous improvement, pricing and cost initiatives and expanding in-market manufacturing. Winemaker Delegat Group acknowledged that New Zealand wine exports would be subject to a 10% tariff, along with other New Zealand exports. However, the major wine producing countries in the European Union would be subject to higher tariffs than New Zealand. Revenue from exports to the USA from Delegat Group account for 52% per cent of total revenue. The United States and Russia are mending fences on the diplomatic front: Kirill Dmitriev, a senior Kremlin adviser and the head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, is now in Washington to advance talks on Ukraine, the first time a senior Russian official has visited the US capital since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. But the fast-moving situation has created cognitive dissonance in Moscow. President Donald Trump's apparent frustration with the progress of peace talks on Ukraine has now bubbled to the surface and the US leader has abruptly tilted his rhetoric against Putin. On March 30, Trump phoned Kristen Welker of NBC News to relay his frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, telling Welker he was "very angry, pissed off" with the Kremlin chief for questioning the credibility of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a press briefing on April 1 that Trump "is frustrated with leaders on both sides of this war." Still, the US president's remarks were a major shift in tone. Trump -- who rarely speaks of Putin in unflattering terms -- has primarily reserved his ire for the Ukrainian president, whether calling him a "dictator" or giving him a public scolding in the Oval Office. Meanwhile, a segment aired on March 31 during the evening news program Vesti on Russia's Rossiya-1 state television that suggested a hidden political agenda by NBC News in reporting Trump's comments. "In order to somehow balance the intense pressure on Ukraine, the sympathetic-to-Zelenskyy TV channel NBC News even managed to extract a quote from Trump about his alleged anger toward Putin," the presenter said. TV presenter and propagandist Yevgeny Popov took a slightly different tack, suggesting Trump was simply diverting domestic attention away from the uproar over the administration's inadvertent sharing of war plans with a journalist in a group chat on the commercial app Signal. "No need to be surprised," Popov said. "The resident of the White House is trying to drown out the scandal around the leak of information about strikes on the Huthis through the Signal messaging app." Such messaging, however, is a departure from the celebratory tone on Russian state TV that followed the dust-up in the Oval Office with Zelenskyy. And Trump's promises to take a harder line with Putin if Russia fails to deliver on promises may temper some expectations of a grand rapprochement with the United States. To be sure, parsing remarks made on Russian state media is an imperfect way to gauge the prospects for US-Russia relations or Putin's willingness to strike a deal with Trump. Russian state media are generally seen as a reliable barometer of what Putin is thinking and relay the Kremlin's daily talking points to the Russian public, but Putin himself sits atop a closed decision-making apparatus. Perhaps more telling than the spin about Trump on Russian state television is the stream of vitriol being directed at Europe by some of the Kremlin's top propagandists, particularly as European nations close ranks. In remarks that followed the US-Russia deal to halt the use of military force in the Black Sea, TV host and arch-propagandist Vladimir Solovyov gloated that the "godless" Europeans did not have a place at the talks in Riyadh. "For Trump, Putin is completely understandable: the leader of a nation close in his fundamental values and set of basic values. Who is confronting him?" Solovyov said. "For Trump, Europe is an enemy." In a recent interview on CNN, Russian nationalist ideologue Aleksandr Dugin also took aim at Europe, speculating, "If for example Trump would withdraw the United States from the war against us in Ukraine, there could be a situation where we fight against European globalists, European liberals in Ukraine without America." One might question the wisdom of giving a platform to a man known for genocidal rhetoric (disclosure: the author previously worked for CNN), but the upshot was clear. Russian propaganda has fixed on Europe as a threat, particularly amid talk of a "willing" coalition to support Ukraine or even send peacekeepers. The phrase "popping champagne in Moscow" has become a popular shorthand for US policymaking decisions that appear to favor Putin. It's perhaps an unconscious reference to the moment when firebrand Russian ultra-nationalist Vladimir Zhirinovsky hoisted glasses of Abrau-Durso sparkling wine to celebrate the 2016 election victory of Trump. But there is, as yet, no garish photo opportunity that Russian state television can now show to explain the conflicting signals from Washington. Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev said on April 3 that he saw a "positive dynamic" in relations between Moscow and Washington, but differences remain, and several more meetings are needed to resolve them. "I think [with] the Trump administration, we are now in [a] realm of thinking about what is possible, what can really work, and how we can find a long-term solution," Dmitriev told CNN following talks with members of President Donald Trump's administration in Washington. "Without doubt, we note a positive dynamic in our relations," Russian news agencies quoted Dmitriev as telling journalists in Washington earlier on April 3 after the meeting. "Of course, there are disagreements on various points, but there is a process, there is a dialogue, which in our understanding will help to overcome these disagreements," Dmitriev told journalists. "A series of meetings will still be needed for us to resolve all our differences. But the main thing we see a positive, creative attitude," he was quoted as saying. Dmitriev said on Telegram that restoring dialogue is a difficult and gradual process. But each meeting, each frank conversation allows us to move forward." He did not name the Trump administration officials he met with, but said they conducted themselves with great respect, ask a lot of questions, find compromises. Dmitriev said he "invited colleagues from the United States to visit Russia." Dmitriev said among the topics discussed were cooperation on rare metals production and the Arctic. He also said work was under way on restoring direct flights between Russia and the United States, and told US broadcaster Newsmax that Russia would like to work with Elon Musk, head of SpaceX and a close adviser to Trump, on a Mars mission. Efforts by Trump to restore Russia-U.S. ties have stirred fears in Ukraine and Europe that Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin could cut a deal to end the war in Ukraine without their participation. Dmitriev claimed after meeting with the Trump administration officials that unidentified forces were trying to sow tension between Russia and the United States and distort Russia's position. "Opponents of the rapprochement are afraid that Russia and the United States will find common ground, begin to understand each other better, and build cooperation both in international affairs and in the economy," he said. Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, arrived on April 2 and met with presidential envoy Steve Witkoff at the White House, US media reported. Witkoff, a former investment banker who has taken the lead on the administration's contacts with the Kremlin, invited Dmitriev to the United States last week, US officials quoted by Reuters said. Trump confirmed on April 3 that a Russian envoy was in the United States for talks, but the White House has not released a statement on the visit. Dmitriev is the most senior Russian official to visit Washington since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. He was recently appointed Putin's special envoy on economic cooperation with foreign countries. The visit comes after Trump expressed frustration with the pace of cease-fire talks. Putin last month rejected a US-Ukrainian cease-fire proposal and has demanded the lifting of some sanctions a condition of a US-proposed truce in the Black Sea. Dmitriev may be key in repairing relations between Moscow and Washington, which have sunk to the lowest level since the depths of the Cold War. The Russian envoy played a role in early contacts with the United States when Trump was elected president the first time in 2016. With reporting by Reuters and AFP The European Union says it is entering a "new era" in its relationship with Central Asian nations following a summit aimed at making inroads in a region dominated by Russia and China. Speaking on the last day of the summit, held in Uzbekistan's ancient Silk Road city of Samarkand, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said a deluge of global tariffs laid out by US President Donald Trump on April 3 showed the importance of building relations in a new era. "We are at another turning point. New global barriers arise, investments are being redirected, powers around the world are carving up new spheres of influence," von der Leyen emphasized in a speech on April 4. "Reliable partners have never been so important. We want to explore new avenues." The two-day summit involving the leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, comes as traditional ally Russia and neighboring China vie for influence, while the region also eyes deeper ties with the West. Central Asia is interested in Europe's advanced industrial technology -- which Russia and China struggle to provide -- while Brussels eyes the region's precious natural resources. Von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU's 10 billion euro investment in the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), a project that could potentially halve the travel time between Europe and Central Asia while bypassing Russia. Von der Leyen also declared an additional 12 billion-euro investment in the Global Gateway to kick-start a new digital and infrastructural development project set. The investment is aimed at enhancing connectivity and trade, tying the five Central Asian nations closer to European markets and opening a route to access the region's richness in critical raw materials such as uranium, copper, coal, zinc, titanium, manganese, lithium, graphite. "We want to be partners not just in extraction but in building up local industries," von der Leyen said. Central Asian leaders have been trying to maintain a balance with Moscow and Beijing while also developing ties with Europe. But they've also been looking to open up borders among themselves following decades of underdeveloped relations. "Seven or eight years ago, borders between states were closed. There was no trade, no transit, no business Relations were frozen," Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev, who was chairing the summit, said. "Nobody would have imagined that we could unite to represent the region at negotiations with European leaders," he said. Mirziyoev has opened up Uzbekistan after he came to power in 2016 following decades of isolation under his predecessor Islam Karimov. The new U.S. tariffs will have severe impact on Asian economies, with some countries expected to see their GDP slashed due to trade barriers imposed on exporters. China For China, the second largest economy in the world, the total tariff rate will climb to 54% within a week, as the U.S. has already announced a 20% on this country earlier this year. But the average U.S. tariff on Chinese goods will be around 76%, when all factors are taken into account, according to Chad Brown, senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and chief economist at the State Department for the last year of the Biden administration. A female worker produces silk fabric products in front of a winder at a silk production workshop in Nantong, Jiangsu province, China on April 2, 2025. Photo by AFP The tariffs would result in an estimated 0.27% drop in China GDP, equivalent to a loss of $53 billion, according to calculations by Niven Winchester, professor of economics at Auckland University of Technology. "Arguably, President Trump's tariffs elsewhere will cause the most headaches," said Ruby Osman, a China expert at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. China on Thursday urged the U.S. to immediately cancel its latest tariffs and vowed countermeasures to safeguard its own interests. The U.S. move disregards the balance of interests reached in multilateral trade negotiations over the years and the fact that it has long benefited greatly from international trade, China's Commerce Ministry said in a statement, as reported by Reuters. European Union Chamber of Commerce in China president Jens Eskelund said many companies had adjusted their supply chains specifically to limit their exposure to U.S.-China trade tensions and that "any subsequent restructuring of supply chains will not be possible overnight." The extra levies could encourage China to step up its trade with alternative markets, but no other country comes even close to U.S. consumption power, where Chinese producers sell more than $400 billion worth of goods annually. "Trump's tariffs certainly won't help Chinese firms and will cause some real pain in some sectors, but they don't make any definitive mark on the Chinese economy," said William Hurst, Chong Hua Professor of Chinese Development at the University of Cambridge. "U.S. exports are of declining importance to China. The American tariffs will spur more Chinese trade with other places, from Europe to Southeast Asia and Africa," he added. Vietnam With a tariff rate of 46%, Vietnams economy is expected to suffer damage from the tariffs, as it has a large trade exposure to the U.S. The countrys GDP might fall by almost 1%, or $5 billion, as the result of the tariffs. This means every household will lose around $196. The White House gave Vietnam a high tariffs due to the U.S. high trade deficit with Vietnam. Last year, the deficit was over $123 billion, the White House said. Vietnam, in response, called the tariffs "unfair" and said that it only imposes an average tariff 9.4% on imports from U.S., much lower than the the reciprocal rates. Singapore While Singapore is only hit with a 10% baseline tariffs, the impact is expected to be considerably high for the city-state. Singapore was "disappointed" to be slapped with U.S. tariffs of 10% despite the wealthy Asian financial hub having a free-trade agreement and running a bilateral trade deficit with the U.S., Singapore's trade minister Gan Kim Yong said on Thursday. "Retaliatory import duties will just add cost to our imports," he said, noting that the government would be reviewing its economic forecasts because of the worsening situation. Gan said Singapore will try to engage the U.S. to understand President Donald Trump's areas of concern and see if they can be resolved. "If there are no specific concerns, then it's more difficult to argue or to negotiate," he said. The U.S. had a goods trade surplus of $2.8 billion with Singapore last year, an 85% increase over 2023, according to the United States Trade Representative website. Although Trump tariffs exclude some sectors such as semiconductors, some analysts do not expect the policy to last in the long run. Chua Hak Bin, an economist at Maybank, cautioned that the tariff exemptions currently in place for pharmaceuticals and semiconductors are unlikely to persist for an extended period. "Clearly, Trump has not made a tariff decision on semiconductors as well as pharmaceuticals, which are both important to Singapores manufacturing share and export share," he said, as cited by The Straits Times. "I dont think they will be zero," he said, adding that he expects further tariffs to currently exempted goods by the end of April or early May. Economists noted that businesses, both local and regional, might experience shrinking profit margins as they grapple with competing against the low-cost goods flooding in from China. Deborah Elms, head of trade policy at the Hinrich Foundation, said: "If others are now scrambling for new markets, they might find opportunities in your market that never faced much competition in the past. That could easily set off new rounds of protectionism or retaliation." Other ASEAN countries Philip Wee, a senior currency economist at Singapore-based lender DBS Bank, said that the reciprocal tariffs on emerging Asian economies were "notably high," as reported by Channel News Asia. Cambodia, a growing economy where 17.8% of people live below the poverty line, is the most severely affected nation in the region, facing a tariff rate of 49%. The next most impacted country is Laos, which faces a tariff rate of 48%. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) indicates that Laos has a poverty rate of 18.3%. Myanmar, a country still recovering from a destructive earthquake last Friday and enduring years of civil conflict, is saddled with a tariff rate of 44%. Indonesia, Southeast Asias largest economy, is subject to a 32% tariff rate, while Thailand, the regions second-biggest economy, has been assigned a tariff rate of 36%. This is not the end of the road, and there's still room for "negotiation, retaliation and further potential escalation", said OCBC chief economist Selina Ling and ASEAN economists Lavanya Venkateswaran, Ahmad A Enver and Jonathan Ng. BRUSSELS -- Several of Europe's top diplomats called out Russian President Vladimir Putin for failing to agree to a US-led peace proposal to end the war in Ukraine amid signs Washington has grown wary of the Kremlin's intentions during several weeks of talks. Several of Europe's top diplomats, commenting during the second day of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brussels on April 4, urged allies to put more pressure on Moscow to come to an agreement. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on Ukraine No media source currently available 0:00 0:01:55 0:00 British Foreign Minister David Lammy called out Putin, saying the Russian leader "continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet" instead of agreeing to a deal Ukraine has already signed off on. "He could accept a cease-fire now, he continues to bombard Ukraine, its civilian population, its energy supplies. We see you, Vladimir Putin, we know what you are doing," Lammy said. NATO allies have been determined to present a united front to counter Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, but the European allies feel their efforts have been marginalized. US President Donald 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 just over two months ago, quickly dispatching his top officials to Moscow and Kyiv and beyond to clinch a peace deal. Last month, however, Moscow rejected the US proposal for a full 30-day cease-fire. And while Ukraine and Russia did agree to a limited halt in attacks on each other's energy infrastructure, both have since accused the other of breaching the agreement. Several foreign ministers at the NATO meeting have called for timelines to pressure Russia to come to an agreement, while German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called out Putin for so far making "nothing but empty promises." She added that the Russian leader was "playing for time by raising ever new demands." Trump appears to be losing patience with Putin, lashing out at him last week while threatening Russia with new tariffs on oil products if Moscow blocks his cease-fire initiatives. During a phone interview with NBC News on March 30, Trump said he was "very angry" and "pissed off" when Putin called for a transitional government to be put in place in Ukraine, which could effectively push out current President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told journalists in Brussels on April 4 that Washington should know in a matter of weeks, not months, if Russia is serious about making peace with Ukraine. "We will know from their answers very soon whether they are serious about proceeding with real peace or whether it's a delay tactic. [If] it's a delay tactic, the president's not interested in that," he said. In what may be a bid to smooth the recent bumps that have emerged, Putin sent envoy Kirill Dmitriev to Washington this week to seek ways to improve bilateral relations that Trump has sought to reestablish after they broke down during the Biden administration over the invasion of Ukraine. But European diplomats said pressure needs to be ratcheted up on Russia as they seek to convince Trump to harden his stance on Putin. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, standing next to Lammy in Brussels, said on April 4 that Russia "owes an answer to the United States" over its failure to agree to the US cease-fire proposal. "Russia has been flip-flopping, continuing its strikes on energy infrastructure, continuing its war crimes," Barrot said. "It has to be 'yes.' It has to be 'no.' It has to be a quick answer." The NATO foreign ministers meeting also looked at how to support Ukraine through the end of the war and afterward. Answering a question from RFE/RL on the alliance's stance toward Ukraine's position at the bargaining table, NATO chief Mark Rutte said pledges of financial support for Kyiv are key to solidifying Ukraine's standing. "Let me reconfirm that they [Ukraine] have to be in the strongest possible position," Rutte said. While Ukraine's membership in NATO is off the table for now, most European allies are keen to at least get assurances that US weapons will continue to go to Ukraine and that NATO's training mission for Ukrainian soldiers continues to operate. However, the United States is no longer chairing the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, known as the Ramstein group, which coordinates military support for Kyiv. The United Kingdom chaired the last meeting of the group in February, and the next one tentatively scheduled for April 11 could be co-chaired by the United Kingdom and France. A Pentagon spokesman declined to confirm that US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth would not attend the meeting but told RFE/RL that the US would not be playing the central role at the gathering. Welcome back to The Farda Briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter that tracks the key issues in Iran and explains why they matter. I'm RFE/RL correspondent Kian Sharifi. In this edition I'm looking at how Iran's threats to go nuclear and its insistence on indirect talks with the United States are frustrating the West, with France warning military action is becoming "inevitable." What You Need To Know Doubling Down On Nuclear Threats: Ali Larijani, a senior aide to Iran's supreme leader, has warned that military action against the Islamic republic would push Tehran to develop nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, France has raised the alarm over Iran's nuclear program, warning that if there is no deal by October military confrontation would be "almost inevitable." Alleged Bank Hacking Fuels Outrage: Iran's Sepah Bank was allegedly hacked by the Codebreakers group last week, exposing the data of 42 million customers, including high-profile accounts. Sepah Bank has denied any breach, insisting its systems are secure and "unhackable." The breach has fueled online outrage over economic inequality and Iran's cybersecurity weaknesses. The alleged compromised data includes information related to members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC). Sociologist Faces Backlash After Criticizing Khamenei: Iranian sociologist Mostafa Mehraeen sparked controversy after publishing two open letters criticizing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In the first, he urged Khamenei to acknowledge mistakes, apologize, and step down, leading to legal action and a court summons. In his second letter, he questioned Khamenei's belief in his divine mission. In an interview with RFE/RL's Radio Farda, he praised the "strength" of Iranian society, crediting it for giving him the "courage" to address Khamenei. The Big Issue Friends Or Enemies -- Pick One Larijani, a senior adviser to Khamenei, said on April 1 that the United States could either approach Iran as an economic partner or treat it as the enemy. "They can talk about economic benefits and have fair cooperation with Iran on economic issues that benefit both," he said in a televised interview. But Larijani, a former parliament speaker and ex-national security adviser, added that military threats against Iran would only make matters worse. "If America or Israel attacks Iran under the pretense of nuclear issues, Iran might move toward making an atomic bomb," he said. Why It Matters: US President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Iran if there is no agreement on Tehran's nuclear program. The 2015 nuclear deal, which Trump withdrew from in 2018, is set to expire in October. Once the deal expires, world powers will not be able to reimpose UN sanctions on Iran. Acknowledging that, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on April 2 warned in parliament that in the absence of a new deal, "a military confrontation would appear to be almost inevitable." Iran has rejected Trump's proposal for direct negotiations, saying it will only agree to indirect talks unless the US president drops his "maximum pressure" campaign. However, Trump claimed on April 3 that he thinks Iran has reconsidered its stance. Barrot said "our priority" is to reach an agreement that "verifiably and durably constrains" Iran's nuclear program. But contradictory messages have been coming from the United States, with Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff calling for the "full dismantlement" of the program. Fabian Hinz, a researcher at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, said recent military drills and the unveiling of missile bases suggest Tehran believes military threats are credible. The United States beefing up its presence in the Middle East has certainly contributed. He told RFE/RL's Radio Farda that a military strike would only "buy time" rather than destroy Iran's nuclear capability, since "knowledge can't be bombed." Hinz argued that if Iran's nuclear program is attacked it would likely continue covertly. He added that identifying and targeting supply chains in Iran could "disrupt the program really heavily." What's Being Said: Larijani's comments, particularly on the potential to develop a bomb, has caused a flurry of reactions inside Iran. Reformist analyst Ahmad Zeidabadi said the Islamic republic "only makes matter more difficult for itself and easier for America and Israel" when officials keep touting Iran's military strength and the ability to weaponize the nuclear program. Culture Minister Abbas Salehi rejected the possibility of Iran going nuclear, insisting Khamenei's fatwa against developing a nuclear weapon would not change based on current affairs because it was rooted in "religious principles." Expert Opinion: "From an Iranian perspective, it would make sense to take all of Trump very seriously, because he killed one of the highest-ranking members of the regime," said Hinz, referring to the 2020 killing of IRGC Quds Force general Qassem Soleimani. That's all from me for now. Until next time, Kian Sharifi If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here . It will be sent to your inbox every Friday. A new investigation by RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service, supported by unseen dashcam and drone footage, sheds new light on the mass executions of civilians in Bucha during Russia's occupation in March 2022. The footage shows Russian troops ambushing clearly marked civilian vehicles on Zavodska Street and opening fire without warning. Survivor Mykola Bryednyev, who was shot in the head, described the chaos as bullets ripped through the car, killing several people. Hours later, drone video confirmed the presence of Russian armored vehicles, marked with their distinctive "V" symbol, stationed at the scene. The troops involved are believed to be from the 234th Air Assault Regiment, known as the Pskov paratroopers. Surveillance footage captured near the site shows soldiers from this unit looting buildings and vandalizing property the day before the killings. Investigators say this regiment controlled the area at the time of the massacre. According to Ukrainian authorities, over 2,500 Russian soldiers who were present in Bucha have been identified. Of those, 100 are suspected of war crimes, and 34 have been officially notified of suspicion. The National Police report that 72 murders have been solved, with 24 indictments already sent to court. In total, 358 civilians were killed in Bucha, and more than 300 of those deaths have been directly linked to Russian forces. Many of the victims were burned, which made identification difficult. "The identification process is ongoing. A year ago, we had 60 unidentified bodies. Now this number is 13. The process is a little complicated because of the exact condition in which we found these bodies -- they were simply burned by the Russians. However, this process continues, the relevant forensic examinations are under way," said Dmytro Shevchuk, head of the war crimes unit for Ukraine's National Police. The 33-day occupation of Bucha, from February 27 to March 31, 2022, left 561 civilians dead, including 12 children. The discovery of mass killings after Ukrainian forces liberated the town sparked global outrage, derailed cease-fire talks, and further galvanized international support for Ukraine. Three years ago, Kirill Dmitriev, a sharp-elbowed, well-connected Kremlin insider, was persona non grata in Washington, sanctioned for his role as the head of what was described as a "slush fund for President Vladimir Putin and emblematic of Russia's broader kleptocracy." His sanctioning, by the US Treasury Department, occurred days after Russia launched its February 2022 all-out invasion of Ukraine, sending bilateral relations with Washington into an all-out tailspin. On April 3, however, Dmitriev stood a stone's throw from the White House, extolling his meetings with lead US envoy Steve Witkoff and other unnamed administration officials. "We see absolutely clearly that the administration of President Trump, unlike President Biden, is committed to resolving issues," he said. "They are extremely respectful, they understand Russia's position, they ask a lot of questions, they find compromises. This is the creative spirit that has been set." The visit by Dmitriev -- the most senior Russian official to travel to the US capital since the start of the invasion of Ukraine -- comes amid a flurry of backchannel and closed-door negotiations as the Trump administration tries to fulfill a major foreign policy goal: halting the fighting in Ukraine. Will his visit accomplish that? The White House had no immediate comment about the talks as of April 4. "I think it's probably a good thing that he went there, and that the dialogue continues," said Sergey Radchenko, a Cold War historian and professor at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. "What he is obviously trying to do is to focus on Russian-US relations, paint a rosy vista of profitable cooperation, and hope that Trump will forget Ukraine," he told RFE/RL. The meetings come about six weeks after top officials from Moscow and Washington met in Saudi Arabia in the highest-level direct talks since 2022. After the invasion, Joe Biden, Trump's predecessor, ruled out any direct talks with Moscow, which had sought talks not just about Ukraine but also about the broken US-Russian relationship and the entire post-Cold War global structure. After initial February talks, the two sides agreed to move toward restoring diplomatic staffing in one another's countries and explore new business and political partnerships once the Ukraine conflict ends. Days prior to those talks, however, Witkoff, a real estate developer and longtime friend of Trump's, traveled to Moscow on his private jet to retrieve an American schoolteacher whom the Kremlin had released after serving months in prison for a drug conviction. "There's a gentleman from Russia, his name is Kirill, and he had a lot to do with this," Witkoff said after returning to Washington. "He was an important interlocutor bridging the two sides." On March 18, the Kremlin and the White House announced a limited cease-fire deal that was hailed as a major step toward a wider peace deal. But both Moscow and Kyiv continued to pound one another with drones and missiles, and full-scale fighting has continued on the battlefield. Observers also pointed to potentially problematic conditions that the Kremlin had included in its negotiating positions. A Portfolio of Business. And More. For his part, Dmitriev, who was named a Kremlin special envoy for international economic cooperation on February 25, has been largely focused on a sales pitch, trying to convince US businesses to return to Russia after pulling out due to the war and Western sanctions. With degrees from Stanford and Harvard and professional backgrounds at Goldman Sachs and McKinsey, Dmitriev has served since 2011 as head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund. He and the fund took a prominent role in developing a Russian-made vaccine for COVID-19 called Sputnik V. Dmitriev's personal ties to the Kremlin have raised eyebrows. His wife, Natalia Popova, is a close friend of Putin's younger daughter, Katerina Tikhonova, and served as her deputy at the Moscow research institute Tikhonova heads. Dmitriev also served on the board of the petrochemical giant Sibur alongside Tikhonova's now ex-husband, Kirill Shamalov. Dmitriev made a previous outreach to the Trump administration during its first term in the White House. In January 2017, he traveled to the Seychelles Islands to meet with Erik Prince, a controversial businessman whose sister was Trump's first education secretary. That meeting, and the communications that led up to it, drew the scrutiny of Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who had been tasked with investigating the Trump administration's ties to Russia. It also drew scrutiny of investigators from the US Senate Intelligence Committee. "Kirill Dmitrievused multiple business contacts to try to make inroads with Transition Team officials," the committee's final report, released in 2020, said. 'Security Guarantees In Some Form May Be Acceptable' It's unclear exactly what transpired in Dmitriev's talks in Washington or with whom exactly he met, aside from Witkoff. The Treasury Department issued a temporary exemption for sanctions so he could travel to Washington. In remarks to Russian reporters, Dmitriev made no mention of the issue that until recently has been the biggest thorn in US-Russian relations: the Ukraine war. "Of course, there are disagreements on various points," he said. "But there is a process and a dialogue that, in our understanding, will help overcome these differences." In a later appearance on Fox News, Dmitriev, who is fluent in English, said the Ukraine conflict had been discussed and that the Kremlin might consider providing security guarantees for Kyiv. He did not provide specifics and, given the brutality of the war and Russia's violation of past security agreements like the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, Kyiv would likely react strongly against such proposals. "Some security guarantees in some form may be acceptable," he said. Dmitriev also told CNN that he did not bring up the issue of sanctions relief in his talks; Russia is one of the most sanctioned countries in the world, most of which were imposed in punishment for the Ukraine invasion. "At this point, we are not asking for any sanction relief," he said. "We are just discussing that if America wants to have more business with Russiathen of course US can do so." US President Donald Trump's April 2 announcement to raise tariffs to the highest level in more than 100 years has sent stock markets tumbling and shaken the global economy. "This is unprecedented in the last century in terms of the scale of tariffs, the number of countries hit, [and] just the sheer level of these tariffs," Emily Kilcrease, a senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS), told RFE/RL. "I think we're going to see shocks that you can't fully anticipate because we've never seen this sort of high level of tariffs in the era of globalization," she said. That worldwide fallout could hit the European Union particularly hard, economists who spoke to RFE/RL said. The direct impact of Trump's 20 percent levy on EU products has sparked fears of coming inflation and about the economic outlook for the 27-country bloc's embattled manufacturers, who are already reeling from US levies on cars and steel. Experts say other major sectors, such as Europe's pharmaceutical industry, which exports heavily to the US market, could also be hard-hit. "These pharmaceutical firms will try to sell into the US as much as they can," Reid I'Anson, a senior economist at the trade intelligence firm Kpler, told RFE/RL. "They may drop their prices a little bit to try and stay competitive, but it is very likely that outright demand in the US for European goods will decline. That will flow through to a weaker economic environment in Europe." How Hard Will Trump's Tariffs Hit Europe? Tariffs are essentially a tax paid by an importer that are usually passed on to distributors, wholesalers, retailers, and ultimately, to consumers. About 60 countries that run the largest trade surpluses with the United States -- including key allies such as the EU, Japan, and South Korea -- now face extra tariffs higher than the flat 10 percent levy announcement, with dozens of others facing tariffs that could extend to 50 percent or more in total. During his announcement in the White House's Rose Garden, Trump said the basic 10 percent tariff on almost all countries takes effect on April 5, while the higher so-called reciprocal tariff rates would apply starting April 9. While economists say the tariff regime announced by Trump is set to make levied goods in the country more expensive, it will also affect industries in Europe and elsewhere that rely on exporting to the US market. "European exporters selling things to the United States are going to have to pay a higher cost, which is passed on to American consumers, but it's going to affect their ability to sell things [and] they're going to lose market share," Matthew Goodman, director of the Greenberg Center for Geoeconomic Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, told RFE/RL. Brussels and individual European governments are still deciding how to react and further negotiations could take place, but the prospect of retaliatory tariffs placed on US products is real, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen saying the bloc is "now preparing for further countermeasures, to protect our interests and our businesses if negotiations fail." Goodman says any retaliation from Europe will raise costs for European consumers and would also raise inflation and slow growth in the United States. "That has big implications for everybody in the world because [the United States is] the largest economy in the world, and if our economy slows, then everybody gets hit," he said. CNAS's Kilcrease, who is a former deputy assistant US trade representative, says Trump's tariffs could also have knock-on effects for Europe, including higher prices and even job losses for key industries. "I'd actually be quite worried about jobs impacts and about investment impacts because you just don't have that customer anymore, or it's just going to be much harder with a 20 percent tariff to sell into that market," she said. How Will The Global Impact Of Trump's Tariffs Affect Europe? The new US tariffs could also have global fallout, affecting the price of key products that rely on global supply chains and reorienting the flow of international trade in unexpected ways. The price of an iPhone, for instance, could increase by 30 to 40 percent in the United States, according to projections by the financial firm Rosenblatt Securities. The cheapest iPhone 16 model is currently listed at $799 but could cost as much as $1,142 if Apple decided to pass the cost on to consumers. A more expensive iPhone 16 Pro Max that currently retails at $1,599 could rise to nearly $2,300. Similar percentage increases are projected for other markets. "This is going to have ripple effects, and it's going to feed through the many different things that go into an iPhone, from the semiconductors made in Taiwan to the glass that is made in Japan, to the assembly of the iPhone in China," said Goodman. "All these things are going to be hit with tariffs, and so the price is ultimately going to be passed on to consumers, both in Europe and in the United States." Washington's escalating trade war with Beijing will also come with worldwide repercussions that will hit Europe directly and indirectly. China announced on April 4 that it will impose additional tariffs of 34 percent on imports from the United States in retaliation for duties of the same amount unveiled by Trump. The "reciprocal" tariff placed on China is on top of a 20 percent levy already imposed by the Trump administration. Trump also targeted countries through which Chinese companies have been diverting products to the US market, among them Vietnam, which faces a new tariff of 46 percent. As Kpler's I'Anson explains, the United States accounts for around 25 percent of Chinese exports, but with that market now saddled with tariffs, Chinese exporters will have to cut prices and reorient those products to other markets. This could in turn lead to a flood of discounted Chinese imports around the world, something Brussels has said it is already tracking and preparing countermeasures to protect its manufacturers from. "It's very possible that there could be this flood of goods coming into Europe in a way that causes real economic problems for Europeans," Kilcrease said. "It may cause another drag on the competitiveness of European firms who are making those same sorts of goods." A full-scale Russian invasion left almost a third of Ukraine hazardous because of mines. Contaminated territory is reduced by 35,000 square kilometers with 130,000 operations of the pyrotechnic units of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine by the end of 2024. World-renowned for their experience with mines after the Balkan wars of the 90s, experts from Bosnia-Herzegovina are engaged in training sappers. Trainers are in the country as employees of Norwegian Peoples Aid, whose cooperation with Ukrainian authorities is funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the German Foreign Office, and the US State Department's Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement. Mine detection dogs deployed in Ukrainian minefields were bred and trained in Sarajevo, Bosnia. While Russian attacks remain relentless, specially trained dogs are helping responders to overnight air raids as well. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. If you're a company that exports to the US -- like a car manufacturer or a whiskey distillery suddenly your goods got way more expensive. That means fewer sales, less revenue, and potential job cuts. Legendary Actor Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87 in Mumbai Manoj Jis works ignited a spirit of national pride, PM Modi wrote. Veteran Bollywood actor Manoj Kumar, celebrated for his roles in patriotic classics like Purab Aur Paschim and Kranti, passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. He died at 3:30 am on Friday at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital due to heart-related complications. A secondary cause of death has been cited as decompensated liver cirrhosis. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the actor on social media, calling him an icon of Indian cinema and praising his contribution to patriotic storytelling. Manoj Jis works ignited a spirit of national pride, he wrote. Advertisement Kumar's son, Kunal Goswami, told ANI that the actor had been unwell for some time. Its Gods grace that he passed away peacefully, he said, adding that cremation will take place on Saturday morning. Born Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in Abbottabad, then British India, Kumar made his acting debut in Fashion (1957) and rose to fame with Kaanch Ki Gudiya (1961). His filmography includes major hits like Gumnaam (1965), Shaheed, Upkaar, and Kranti. He was often referred to as Bharat Kumar for his nationalistic film portrayals. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992, the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. Chandigarh Police Releases Advisory on Cybercrimes Associated with Studio Ghibli Art Malware is also being placed in downloadable Ghibli wallpapers and art packs, invading user privacy and data security. Chandigarh Police Releases Advisory on Cybercrimes Associated with Studio Ghibli Art latest news: The UT Chandigarh Cyber Crime Police Station has issued an urgent advisory cautioning against growing cybercrimes using Studio Ghibli art and its fame. Cybercriminals are using online scams, identity theft, and malware attacks to target fans. Scam sites purporting to sell Studio Ghibli items have been reported for swiping payment information, sending bogus products, or vanishing after purchase. Members should verify the website's legitimacy before purchasing. The same is also true with scam Ghibli-themed contests and emails with Trojan links tricking people into downloading malicious programs and divulging private information. Advertisement Malware is also being placed in downloadable Ghibli wallpapers and art packs, invading user privacy and data security. In addition, impersonating fan artists, fake social media profiles have been seen, tricking people into purchasing counterfeit art or revealing sensitive information. The alert also indicates threats with AI-powered apps capturing facial information, which can be used for synthetic identity fraud and deepfake attacks if it is sold on the dark web. Chandigarh Police asks the users to deal with only authentic accounts, be cautious about suspicious downloads, and maintain online security. (For More News Apart Chandigarh Police Releases Advisory on Cybercrimes Associated with Studio Ghibli Art stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Congress to Challenge Waqf Bill Passed on Friday in Supreme Court Very Soon The Rajya Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the early hours of Friday. Congress to Challenge Waqf Bill Passed on Friday in Supreme Court Very Soon, Latset News: The Congress party on Friday said that it will challenge the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025, which was passed by the Rajya Sabha earlier in the day, in the Supreme Court. AICC General Secretary Jairam Ramesh, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), said, The INC will very soon be challenging in the Supreme Court the constitutionality of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Advertisement We are confident and will continue to resist all assaults of the Modi Government on the principles, provisions, and practices that are enshrined in the Constitution of India, He further stated, The INC's challenge of the CAA, 2019 is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INC's challenge of the 2019 amendments to the RTI Act, 2005 is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INCs challenge to the validity of the amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules (2024) is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INC's intervention to uphold the letter and spirit of the Places of Worship Act, 1991 is being heard in the Supreme Court. The INC will very soon be challenging in the Supreme Court the constitutionality of the Wakf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The Rajya Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the early hours of Friday with 128 votes in favour and 95 against, after a prolonged 12-hour debate. The Lok Sabha had cleared the bill late Wednesday night, shortly after midnight. Advertisement ( For More News, Apart from 'Congress to Challenge Waqf Bill Passed on Friday in Supreme Court Very Soon, Stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Haryana Govt Revises School Timings for Durga Ashtami on April 5, All government schools will operate from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM for both students and teachers. Haryana Govt Revises School Timings for Durga Ashtami on April 5, Latest News: In view of the occasion of Durga Ashtami, the Haryana Education Department has issued a notification announcing revised school timings across the state for Saturday, April 5. On April 5, all government schools will operate from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM for both students and teachers. In the case of double-shift schools, the first shift will run from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, while the second shift will continue as per the regular schedule. Advertisement The Education Department has instructed all school heads to communicate these updated timings to their institutions and ensure strict compliance. The notification also clearly states that no modifications are permitted at the individual school level. ( For More News, Apart from 'Haryana Govt Revises School Timings for Durga Ashtami on April 5, Stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Rajya Sabha Passes Waqf Bill 2025 Amid Heated Debate "Ayes: 128, Noes: 95, Absent: 0. The Bill is passed." Rajya Sabha Passes Waqf Bill 2025 Amid Heated Debate, Latest News: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 has now been passed by both Houses of Parliament. The Rajya Sabha cleared the bill early Friday with 128 votes in favour and 95 against after a prolonged 12-hour debate. The Lok Sabha had passed the bill late Wednesday night, shortly after midnight. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced, Advertisement "Ayes: 128, Noes: 95, Absent: 0. The Bill is passed." The bill aims to enhance transparency and governance in Waqf property management. Key changes include redefining "Waqf", digitizing records, mandating representation of women and non-Muslims in Waqf bodies. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who introduced the bill in the upper house, said that several suggestions from the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) were incorporated into the revised version. "There have been many changes from the original draft. Had we not accepted any suggestions, the bill would have been completely different," he stated, according to ANI. Advertisement Rijiju defended the bills structure, stating, "The Waqf Board is a statutory body. Why should it include only Muslims? If there are disputes involving non-Muslims, how will they be resolved?" He emphasized that the statutory body should be secular, with representation from all communities. However, he clarified that non-Muslim members would not be involved in religious donation-related work. The Minister added that mechanisms for redressal under the bill had been strengthened, including the Right to Appeal if a person is unsatisfied with a tribunal's decision. Opposition Criticisms Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge opposed the bill, calling it unconstitutional and urging the government to withdraw it. Rijiju clarified that the Central Waqf Council would have 22 members, including ex-officio members, with no more than four non-Muslims. Similarly, in the State Waqf Boards, only three out of eleven members could be non-Muslim, to maintain a secular structure while ensuring minority representation. Advertisement Congress MP Dr. Syed Naseer Hussain criticized the bill, calling it misleading and politically motivated. He alleged that during the BJP government, Waqf employees had not received proper funding or salaries. Union Home Minister Amit Shah interrupted to accuse the opposition of misleading the public. Tiruchi Siva (DMK), Mohammad Nadimul Haque (TMC), Sanjay Singh (AAP), and Professor Manoj Kumar Jha (RJD) also opposed the bill, calling it anti-secular, unconstitutional, and divisive. ( For More News, Apart from 'Rajya Sabha Passes Waqf Bill 2025 Amid Heated Debate, Stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Lady Constable Amandeep Kaur Dismissed After Arrest in Heroin Possession Case Investigation into the assets of the accused is underway. If any illegally acquired property is found, it will be seized as per law. Lady Constable Amandeep Kaur Dismissed After Arrest in Heroin Possession Case, latest news: Lady Constable Amandeep Kaur (Belt No. 621/MNS) has been permanently dismissed from service following her arrest in a heroin possession case. She was arrested on April 2, 2025, after 17.71 grams of heroin were recovered from a black Mahindra Thar SUV, which she was reportedly driving. The vehicle, bearing registration number PB 05 AQ 7720, has been impounded by the police. The arrest was carried out by a team from Sadar Bathinda Police, led by Station House Officer (SHO) Anubhav Jain. Following the arrest, she was dismissed from service under Article 311 of the Indian Constitution by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mansa, Bhagirath Meena. Advertisement Police officials stated that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has issued clear directives to take strict action against police personnel found involved in drug-related offenses. In line with this policy, appropriate action was taken against Constable Kaur. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sukhchain Singh Gill said that an investigation into the assets of the accused is underway. If any illegally acquired property is found, it will be seized as per legal provisions. Additionally, SSP Bathinda Amneet Kondal has been assigned to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. Before her arrest, Kaur was widely known on social media for flaunting a lavish lifestyle, with posts showing her in uniform alongside luxury vehicles and high-end accessories. ( For More News, Apart from 'Lady Constable Amandeep Kaur Dismissed After Arrest in Heroin Possession Case, Stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Exceptional times, exceptional measures In 2022, foreign direct investment in Romania reached a record level of over 10 billion euros Exceptional times, exceptional measures Calin Cotoiu, 04.04.2025, 13:25 In 2022, foreign direct investment in Romania reached a record level of over 10 billion euros. An increase of 12.3% compared to the previous year, supported by cyclical factors, but also by others that reflected the relaxation of pandemic restrictions or the resilience of the Romanian investment climate, despite geopolitical tensions and the energy crisis. Mainly concentrated in industry, trade and financial and insurance Services, investments have continued to decline since then. In 2023, they were estimated at around 6.6 billion euros, and the following year they decreased by another one billion euros. And data published by the National Bank of Romania show that, in the first month of this year, foreign direct investment fell by half compared to January 2024. The instability on the political scene has accentuated this downward trend, in which the geopolitical factor plays a major role. Meanwhile, the financial rating agencies have worsened Romanias outlook it is no longer stable, but negative, although the country is still in the category of those recommended for investment, albeit on ranking last. The need for exceptional measures to rectify the situation is becoming increasingly evident, say various economic analysts. One of them is university professor Mircea Cosea: We have entered a period in which the future of Romania is quite gloomy in terms of the economy, and especially in terms of attractiveness for foreign capital. In addition to the fact that we have political instability which will be prolonged, because, regardless of the outcome of the elections in May, we will wait and see what happens from my point of view, things are evolving negatively more from a geopolitical point of view. Because Romania is a bit isolated at the moment. I was scared by the statement of the American embassy which takes up a speech by the American vice president in which this label of a country with a still poorly developed democracy, with governance mistakes, is maintained. We are a black sheep in this area from the point of view of the interest of the new American administration; the war in Ukraine, even if it ends up with peace, of a certain kind, the border with the Russian Federation will be very close to us. All these things make Romania enter a difficult moment in terms of foreign investments. That is why I believe that exceptional measures must be taken. In exceptional times, exceptional measures must be taken in several areas, insists economic analyst Mircea Cosea : The first area is that of extraordinary incentives that we should give, temporarily, to foreign investors. Incentives that we have not provided so far, in terms of taxation, land allocation, in terms of everything that means a greater degree of attractiveness for our neighbors. Secondly, a very intense mobilization of what is called economic diplomacy or commercial diplomacy. Thirdly, there must be propaganda, in the good sense of the word, to show that Romania is a country that, despite temporary difficulties, such as deficits or difficulties in attracting funds, has resources much superior to others, and deserves to attract attention in terms of investments. Professor Mircea Cosea mentions in this context the agricultural processing industry, energy, and tourism. We are languishing in apathy, he says, and we are waiting for someone to come and ask us: do you want investments? No, we have to go and ask for them. We have to go during this period, urgently, to get in touch with the new American administration to clarify things, to show that Romania is actually a country that has a democracy, that has certain difficulties, but that is on the way to solving them. Risk aversion has increased not only in Romania, on the other hand, university professor Daniel Daianu points out, economist and former Minister of Economy and Finance: We are living in a period of, to say the least, increased uncertainty and unpredictability. The Trump administration has made astonishing moves in many respects in the relationship with Russia, which is in a military confrontation in Ukraine. We have a trade war, not only announced, it is already underway with high tariffs, which concern the relationship between the United States and the EU. We will also have a very likely currency war. For as long as we have known, when trade relations are very tense, states try to use the exchange rate as a way to boost exports and discourage imports. It is not only about Romania, therefore. () All this creates a much more uncertain, unpredictable context than the traditional complaints that the business environment had, namely that it is necessary to operate a stable fiscal framework, so that there are no changes in economic policy that would ruin business plans. These are changes that are disruptive. They were unthinkable. What happens after President Trumps return changes the post-war order in Europe in a way. These are changes that cannot fail to have effects on business plans, concludes Daniel Daianu. April 4, 2025 UPDATE (1) A roundup of local and world news Newsflash Newsroom, 04.04.2025, 18:07 NATO Romanias status as a member of the North Atlantic Alliance is its strongest security guarantee, said Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu in a statement marking NATO Day and the 21st anniversary of Romanias joining this organization. Romania has shown it is a strong and reliable ally, committed to Euro-Atlantic principles and values and an important supplier of regional security, Marcel Ciolacu said. The professionalism and sacrifice of Romanian servicemen in theatres of operation, for which we are grateful, are recognized by both our international partners and Romanian citizens, the Romanian Prime Minister added. In 2025, for the 9th consecutive year, Romania allotted 2% of GDP to defense spending, with the possibility of increasing this level to 2.5% for the purchase of military equipment. Romania will continue to play a significant role in ensuring the collective defense of the Euro-Atlantic, in improving NATO capabilities and implementing allied decisions, in keeping with the guidelines established in the new Strategic Concept, Marcel Ciolacu pointed out. MEETINGS Romanias Foreign Minister, Emil Hurezeanu, on Friday, met with US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, on the sidelines of the meeting of NATO foreign ministers held in Brussels. A good exchange of views between Minister Hurezeanu and Secretary of State Rubio. Ready to work together to advance our Strategic Partnership for the benefit of our peoples, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wrote on X. The Romanian official also discussed with his Norwegian counterpart, Espen Barth Eide. Emil Hurezeanu stressed that Europe must intensify its security and defense capabilities. Also in Brussels, on Thursday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio conveyed to NATO foreign ministers that the USA will not abandon NATO. He described the assumption that Washington would no longer be as involved in NATO as unjustified international hysteria, but again insisted that the allies must increase defense spending to 5% of GDP. On the other hand, strengthening EU defense by 2030 and improving military support for Ukraine were also discussed in Warsaw, during an informal meeting of EU Defense Ministers. Representing Romania was Angel Tilvar. (VP) April 4, 2025 UPDATE (2) A roundup of local and world news Newsflash Newsroom, 04.04.2025, 20:00 ELECTION CAMPAIGN The campaign for the presidential election in Romania started on Friday and will end on May 3, on the eve of the first round of voting. 11 candidates have enrolled in the race, four running independently and seven backed by parties or electoral alliances. The Constitution states the president is elected by universal, equal, direct, secret and free ballot. If none of the candidates wins the majority of votes in the first round, a second round will be held on May 18, pitting the two best-ranked candidates. NATO Romanias status as a member of the North Atlantic Alliance is its strongest security guarantee, said Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu in a statement marking NATO Day and the 21st anniversary of Romanias joining this organization. Romania has shown it is a strong and reliable ally, committed to Euro-Atlantic principles and values and an important supplier of regional security, Marcel Ciolacu said. The professionalism and sacrifice of Romanian servicemen in theatres of operation, for which we are grateful, are recognized by both our international partners and Romanian citizens, the Romanian Prime Minister added. In 2025, for the 9th consecutive year, Romania allotted 2% of GDP to defense spending, with the possibility of increasing this level to 2.5% for the purchase of military equipment. Romania will continue to play a significant role in ensuring the collective defense of the Euro-Atlantic area, in improving NATO capabilities and implementing allied decisions, in keeping with the guidelines established in the new Strategic Concept, Marcel Ciolacu pointed out. MEETINGS Romanias Foreign Minister, Emil Hurezeanu, on Friday, met with US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, on the sidelines of the meeting of NATO foreign ministers held in Brussels. A good exchange of views between Minister Hurezeanu and Secretary of State Rubio. Ready to work together to advance our Strategic Partnership for the benefit of our peoples, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wrote on X. The Romanian official also discussed with his Norwegian counterpart, Espen Barth Eide. Emil Hurezeanu stressed that Europe must intensify its security and defense capabilities. Also in Brussels, on Thursday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio conveyed to NATO foreign ministers that the USA will not abandon NATO. He described the assumption that Washington would no longer be as involved in NATO as unjustified international hysteria, but again insisted that the allies must increase defense spending to 5% of GDP. On the other hand, strengthening EU defense by 2030 and improving military support for Ukraine were also discussed in Warsaw, during an informal meeting of EU Defense Ministers. Representing Romania was Angel Tilvar. FINANCIAL AID The Romanian government is preparing aid packages for the sectors that may be hit by the new tariffs imposed by the United States. The measures proposed will be discussed in detail next week with stakeholders, in order to reduce as much as possible the impact of the tariffs on Romanian companies, Finance Minister Tanczos Barna said. If exports are slowed down, Romanian companies should look towards the European Union single market, the Romanian official added. (CM & VP) Aid for companies affected by US tariffs Romania, just like other European economies, is preparing for the new tariffs announced by the Trump administration. Finance Minister Tanczos Barna (Photo: gov.ro) Daniela Budu, 04.04.2025, 14:00 Romania, just like other European economies, is preparing for the new tariffs announced by the Trump administration. The government in Bucharest promises support measures for companies affected by the new tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu announced aid for all affected industries, saying that investors trust Romania. Marcel Ciolacu: We will protect Romanian companies with all available resources from the effects of the new trade war of customs tariffs between America and Europe. We are preparing support measures for all affected industries through state aid schemes that are as efficient and simple to apply as possible, so that they can produce effects in the shortest possible time. The government is already preparing aid schemes for the sectors that could suffer (), and the proposed measures will be discussed next week with those affected, so as to minimize the impact of these tariffs on Romanian companies, Finance Minister Tanczos Barna also announced. He stressed that an analysis is also underway at the European Union level, and Economy Minister Bogdan Ivan will meet next week with relevant ministers from the European Union to prepare an adequate response to support European industries. As regards possible aid schemes, the minister specified that these will be discussed with the relevant industry and solutions will be sought that best meet its needs. Tanczos Barna also mentioned that the current situation may rebalance trade relations with the United States, overall, and we may reach very short supply chains and domestic production, domestic consumption. If exports are hampered, Romanian companies must focus on the European Union market, he added. In addition, the Government has sent two emissaries to the United States for talks with the Trump administration. The new tariffs imposed by the US will mainly affect European countries, including Romania. Even if only 2% of all products exported by Romania reach the United States, the Romanian economy can be seriously disrupted, analysts say, due to the close ties with other European economies that make massive exports to the United States. The automotive industry, the furniture sector, wood products, steel and iron articles, industrial equipment and the food industry are the sectors most affected. Romania is, however, among the states with a trade surplus with Washington. According to the National Institute of Statistics, Bucharest exported products worth almost 2.3 billion euros to the United States last year and imported of over 1.3 billion euros, resulting in a trade surplus with the US of about 1 billion euros. The White House announced that the new tariffs will come into effect on April 5 and 9. Tariffs of 20% will be imposed on products imported from the European Union, 34% on those from China, 31% on Switzerland, 26% on India, 10% on the United Kingdom and Brazil. Donald Trump insisted that any product entering the US will be taxed at least 10%. (EE) Meetings on defence The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reassures NATO members that the US is committed to the Alliance Meeting of the defence minister Angel Tilvar and the NATO secretary general, Mark Rutte Roxana Vasile, 04.04.2025, 13:50 The international hysteria about the US abandoning NATO is unwarranted, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told the foreign ministers of the North Atlantic Alliance on Thursday in Brussels. However, he added, the Allies must reach up to 5% of their countries Gross Domestic Product in defence spending within a reasonable period. According to the US official, who is attending such a NATO meeting for the first time, the increase in defence spending is justified by the need to defend allied territories and deter any potentially aggressive action against any NATO member state. Against this background, the NATO secretary general Mark Rutte suggested that 3.5% should be the first step taken in the summer, at the Alliance summit in The Hague. Closely related to this topic, a NATO-Ukraine Council meeting also took place in Brussels, giving Allies an opportunity to reiterate that they will provide all possible assistance for Kyiv to strengthen its position in the face of an aggressive Russia and to achieve sustainable peace. In turn, defence preparedness and the support provided by EU member states to Ukraine were discussed in Warsaw, during an informal meeting of the blocs defence ministers, in which Romania was represented by minister Angel Tilvar. In a session devoted to European defence, minister Tilvar commended the March 19 publication of the White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030, including the ReArm Europe initiative. Romania expresses its interest in strengthening the European industrial and technological base, so as to be able to meet current and future challenges, including support through existing instruments and new mechanisms, such as the Security Action for Europe instrument (SAFE), under ReArm Europe, Angel Tilvar said. He also pleaded for a geographically balanced industrial and technological development in the field of defence, for support to small and medium-sized enterprises as pillars of competitiveness, as well as for coordination of European and NATO efforts, to ensure complementarity and strategic coherence. At a working session focusing on Ukraine, the participants conveyed broad support for sustainable peace in this country. In this context, Romanias contribution to the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine was highlighted, among other things. (AMP) Factory orders and construction Purchasing Managers' survey results from Germany are due on Friday, headlining a light day for the European economic news. At 2.00 am ET, Destatis is scheduled to issue Germany's factory orders figures for February. Orders are forecast to grow 3.4 percent on a monthly basis, in contrast to the 7.0 percent decrease in January. At 2.45 am ET, France's statistical office INSEE publishes industrial production for February. Economists expect output to grow 0.5 percent month-on-month, reversing a 0.6 percent fall in January. At 3.00 am ET, industrial production figures are due from Spain. Half an hour later, S&P Global publishes Germany's construction Purchasing Managers' survey results. At 4.00 am ET, the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders publishes UK car registrations data for March. At 4.30 am ET, UK S&P Global construction PMI data is due. The index is expected to climb to 46.3 in March from 44.6 in February. 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. Redcare Pharmacy reported that its preliminary total sales for the first quarter rose 28% to 717 million euros from last year's 560 million euros, with both persistently strong growth in non-Rx sales across all countries and rapid Rx sales growth in Germany. Quarterly non-Rx sales rose 19.7% to 484 million euros from 404 million euros in the prior year. Rx sales for the Group were up 49.5% to 233 million euros from 156 million euros in the prior year. The company noted that its active customer base continued to expand at a strong pace in the first quarter, surpassing the 13 million mark. The company expects EBITDA margin for the first quarter to be back in the positive and is well on track with its full-year guidance. The company will release the full interim report for the first-quarter of 2025 on 6 May 2025. For more earnings news, earnings calendar, and earnings for stocks, visit rttnews.com. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Singapore retail sales declined in February largely due to the timing of Chinese New Year, data from the Department of Statistics showed Friday. Retail sales dropped 3.6 percent on a yearly basis in February, in contrast to the revised 4.7 percent rise in January. The decline in retail sales was partly due to Chinese New Year being celebrated in February last year, as opposed to January this year. During the January to February period, retail sales grew by 0.8 percent from the same period last year. Excluding motor vehicle sales, retail sales plunged 6.7 percent in March following a 5.1 percent rise in the prior month. Sales of food and beverage services decreased 5.6 percent, reversing the 10.3 percent growth in January. The wearing apparel & footwear industry recorded an annual decline in sales of 18.4 percent, which was mainly due to lower sales of wearing apparel. Likewise, sales of department stores and supermarkets & hypermarkets decreased 14.6 percent and 13.3 percent, respectively. Month-on-month, retail sales growth improved to 3.0 percent in February from 2.8 percent in January. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News After President Donald Trump announced new reciprocal trade tariffs, support continues to roll in from across industries and from Opposition quarters. The support is bipartisan, with Democrat Rep. Jared Golden lauding the America First Reciprocal Trade Plan: "I'm pleased the president is building his tariff agenda on the foundation of a universal 10 percent tariff like the one I proposed in the BUILT USA Act. This ring fence around the American is a good start to erasing our unsustainable trade deficits. I'm eager to work with the president to fix the broken 'free trade' system that made multinational corporations rich but ruined manufacturing communities across the country." House Speaker Mike Johnson said, "These tariffs restore fair and reciprocal trade and level the playing field for American workers and innovators". Coalition for a Prosperous America Chairman Zach Mottl said a permanent, universal baseline tariff resets the global trade environment and finally addresses the destructive legacy of decades of misguided free-trade policies. National Cattlemen's Beef Association Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane said, "For too long, America's family farmers and ranchers have been mistreated by certain trading partners around the world. President Trump is taking action to address numerous trade barriers that prevent consumers overseas from enjoying high-quality, wholesome American beef." Steel Manufacturers Association President Philip K. Bell said that since the revised tariffs took effect, Hyundai Steel announced a $5.8 billion steel mill in Louisiana, demonstrating that the tariffs are working to bring more steel investments and production to the United States. "The domestic steel market is stronger when other nations are forced to compete on a level playing field." This trade reset is a necessary step in the right direction, according to Alliance for American Manufacturing President Scott Paul. "The new policies announced by President Trump today confirm the end of the disastrous WTO era and lay the groundwork for a new set of arrangements in the international economy that prioritize the national interest and the flourishing of the nation's working families," said American Compass Chief Economist Oren Cass. National Council of Textile Organizations CEO Kim Glas commended President Trump and his administration on their tariff reciprocity plan to finally begin rebalancing America's trade positioning in at home and abroad. Southern Shrimp Alliance Executive Director John Williams thanked the Trump Administration's actions, saying, "It will preserve American jobs, food security, and our commitment to ethical production." The American Petroleum Institute welcomed Trump's decision to exclude oil and natural gas from new tariffs, underscoring the complexity of integrated global energy markets and the importance of America's role as a net energy exporter. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol has been removed from office after the country's Constitutional Court unanimously voted to uphold the parliamentary decision. Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached by the parliament on December 14 after he was forced to repeal the martial law he imposed on December 3 yielding to protests by the lawmakers. The 64-year-old politician was arrested a month later and was being investigated on charges of insurrection as the martial law order plunged the country into turmoil. Although impeachment motion against Yoon Suk Yeol was passed and he was suspended from office, as per South Korean law, an impeachment becomes valid only after at least two third of the nine-member Constitutional Court approves it. The decision of the highest court of South Korea in this case was unanimous. In its ruling delivered Friday, the judges described Yoon Suk Yeol's actions as a "grave betrayal of the people's trust." The acting President of the Constitutional Court Moon Hyung-bae said the presidential decree imposing martial law in the country was unconstitutional. Yoon also faces trial on a separate charge of insurrection. His removal from office paves the way for a snap presidential election within 60 days. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News French stocks are down sharply in the red on Friday, extending losses from the previous session, amid rising concerns about growth following U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping "reciprocal tariffs" announcement earlier in the week. Trump's moves prompted several European leaders to warn of retaliatory measures. French President Macro called on companies to suspend planned investments in the U.S. Investors are also digesting a slew of regional economic data. The benchmark CAC 40 was down as much as 310.00 points or 4.08% at 7,288.98 a few minutes ago. Societe Generale is plunging more than 10%. BNP Paribas is declining nearly 8% and Credit Agricole is down 5.2%. ArcelorMittal is down 9%, while Unibail Rodamco, Saint Gobain, Stellantis, Thales, STMicroElectronics, Renault, AXA and Accor are down 5 to 8%. Publicis Groupe is down by about 4.7%. Airbus, Safran, TotalEnergies, Teleperformance, Veolia Environment, Schneider Electric, Capgemini, Bouygues and Legrand are down 3 to 4.5%. Sanofi, Edenred, Michelin, Hermes International, Dassault Systemes, Essilor and Eurofins Scientific are also down sharply. Data from statistical office INSEE showed France's industrial production recovered at a stronger-than-expected pace in February, growing by 0.7% month-on-month, in contrast to the 0.5% decrease in January. Economists had forecast output to grow 0.5%. Likewise, manufacturing output advanced 1.4% after a 0.5% drop in the previous month. The upturn in output was mainly driven by the 1.2% rebound in 'other manufacturing industries' and the 3.1% increase in the manufacture of machinery and equipment goods. Data from S&P Global said the HCOB Construction PMI in France rose to 43.8 in March 2025 from a five-month low of 38.9 in the previous month, pointing to a slower rate of contraction across the country's construction sector but still sharp overall. Meanwhile, data showed new passenger car registrations in France fell 14.5% year-on-year to 153,842 units in March 2025, marking the third consecutive monthly decline. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com A closely watched report released by the Labor Department on Friday showed employment in the U.S. surged by much more than expected in the month of March. The Labor Department said non-farm payroll employment jumped by 228,000 jobs in March after climbing by a downwardly revised 117,000 jobs in February. Economists had expected employment to rise by 135,000 jobs compared to the addition of 151,000 jobs originally reported for the previous month. The stronger than expected job growth partly reflected increases in employment in the healthcare and social assistance and transportation and warehousing sectors. Retail employment also increased, partially reflecting the return of workers from a strike, while federal government employment declined. "On the surface, this appears to be a bullish number, but it is important to understand that this is backwards looking data," said Larry Tentarelli, Chief Technical Strategist for Blue Chip Daily Trend Report. He added, "Markets are going to be much more concerned with incoming, future data, and our concern here is that the higher-than-expected tariffs are going to lead to a major slowdown in hiring and the labor market." Meanwhile, the report said the unemployment rate crept up to 4.2 percent in March from 4.1 percent in February. The unemployment rate was expected to remain unchanged. The uptick by the unemployment rate came as the labor force grew by 232,000 persons, slightly outpacing a 201,000 person increase by the household survey measure of employment. The Labor Department also said average hourly employee earnings rose by 9 cents, or 0.3 percent, to $36.00 in March. Average hourly employee earnings in March were up by 3.8 percent compared to the same month a year ago, reflecting a slowdown from the 4.0 percent jump in February. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Epicentr Ceramic Corporation increased production by 25.3% in 2024, producing 7.7 million sq m of ceramic tiles, Epicentr Ceramic Corporation Director Volodymyr Syrov told Interfax-Ukraine. The ceramic tile market in Ukraine in 2024 decreased by 4.3% compared to 2023, reaching 28.1 million sq m (in the pre-war year 2021 - 44.5 million sq m). This decline caused a significant decrease in imports - by 19.5%. At the same time, national producers showed growth: production volumes increased by 4.7%, and exports - by a record 72.7%. "Despite the general market contraction, Epicentr Ceramic Corporation increased production by 25.3%, producing 7.7 million sq m of tiles. This allowed the company to reach pre-war indicators and even exceed them by 5% (compared to 2021). In addition, we managed to improve our positions and rise from third to second place in Ukraine among all manufacturers," Syrov said. According to him, these results made it possible to build ambitious plans for the future, with an emphasis on expanding geography and export volumes. As reported, in 2019, Epicentr K invested UAH 3 billion in the construction of the largest ceramic tile production plant with an area of 70,000 sq m in Kalynivka (Kyiv region). The facility is located on a 20-hectare site near the Kalynivka customs terminal and the Epicenter group warehouse complex. Epicentr Ceramic Corporation's production is equipped with advanced technologies from the world leader SACMI and has a capacity of 12 million sq m of tiles per year. The plans include an increase to 18 million sq m in 2027. With the participation of CFI, Agence francaise de developpement medias, as part of the Hub Bucharest Project with the support of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs As measles cases continue to rise across the United States and internationally, the New York State Department of Health has issued a travel advisory urging residents to take preventive measures before traveling to areas experiencing outbreaks. The advisory comes ahead of the busy spring travel season, coinciding with Passover and Easter holidays. State officials are recommending that travelers ensure they are fully vaccinated with two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine at least two weeks prior to departure. According to the department, a single dose of the MMR vaccine offers approximately 93 percent protection against measles, while two doses increase immunity to about 97 percent. "Measles is more common in certain parts of the world and can be just a car ride or flight away," said New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. "The virus is extremely contagious and can have serious health consequences, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death. Being vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others." The U.S. has already reported more measles cases in the first three months of 2025 than in all of 2024, with the majority concentrated in Texas and New Mexico. Canada is also facing a growing outbreak, with over 600 cases, primarily in Ontario. In New York, four cases have been confirmed so far this yearthree in New York City and one in Suffolk County. Measles spreads through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing and can linger on surfaces. An infected person can transmit the virus up to four days before and after the rash appears. Health officials urge anyone who may have been exposed to monitor symptoms for 21 days and isolate if symptoms develop. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Agricultural exports account for over 50% of all Ukrainian exports, compared to March 2024 this figure increased by 4.5%, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said during a government meeting on Friday. As he wrote on Telegram, "agricultural exports remain the basis for our trade and account for over 50% of everything that Ukraine sells abroad." Shmyhal also informed that last year the export of Ukrainian goods increased by 13%, and in March this year the positive dynamics of export growth continued - plus 4.5% compared to March last year. "In the context of global trade turbulence, the Ukrainian government will strengthen support for national producers and Ukrainian exporters. We have provided all the necessary tools for this," the head of government stressed. At the same time, he recalled that the Made in Ukraine program, in particular, provides for UAH 500 million in compensation for the purchase of Ukrainian agricultural machinery. The state will compensate farmers for up to 25% of the cost of this equipment if it is made in Ukraine. "In general, this year we will allocate more than UAH 6 billion from the budget to support the agricultural sector alone," Shmyhal emphasized. As reported, in March 2025, Ukraine exported 9.98 million tonnes of goods worth $3.6 billion. Nova Poshta, the leader in express delivery in Ukraine, will increase its investment in the European market by 42.8% in 2025, bringing the total to EUR 10 million, according to Oleksandr Lysovets, CEO of Nova Post Europe. "In 2025, we plan to invest around EUR 10 million," Lysovets said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine, responding to a question about the company's European expansion budget for the year. Last year, Nova Poshta invested EUR 7 million in its European development strategy, he said. "We plan to invest around EUR 2 million in Moldova alone twice as much as the previous year," he said. "Moldova is one of our most dynamic markets. In 2024, our volumes there tripled. This explosive growth prompted us to look for a new sorting hub, which is five times larger than the previous one and significantly better equipped. It offers more loading bays, a more convenient location, and improved access routes." Lysovets explained that the new terminal is currently undergoing upgrades and modernization to meet the company's operational needs. "The investment in that terminal alone will amount to EUR 500,000," he said. Beekeepers in the United States lost more than 55 percent of managed colonies last year -- the highest loss rate since the Apiary Inspectors of America began determining them in 2011. A new study from University of Vermont scientists and international collaborators supports a novel method for testing hygienic behavior in honey bees that could promote breeding more disease resistant colonies in the future. "Beekeepers are losing bees at a rate that they say is unsustainable," says Samantha Alger, director of the Vermont Bee Lab at the UVM and lead author of the study. "In the '80s, beekeepers lost colonies 10-12 percent of the time but now it's like 30-50 percent. Imagine that happening to someone who's a cattle farmer or a pig farmer every year." Honey bee populations remain relatively steady despite heavy losses because beekeepers are good at breeding new bees, she explains. But that comes at the expense of time and resources for beekeepers, as well as risk for native pollinators. Pathogens in managed honey bees can spill over into wild bee populations. Alger's lab works with beekeepers to breed hardy, disease resistant honey bee colonies which they can sell to hobbyists and professional beekeepers. Helping beekeepers identify hygienic behavior -- the ability to identify unhealthy brood -- is part of this process. "It's definitely more desirable for a beekeeper to have bees that are better adapted at taking care of their diseases themselves rather than using chemical treatments and interventions to try to reduce these pathogen loads, which of course may have negative impacts on the bees," she says. "Now the trick is how does a beekeeper identify a colony that is really hygienic? And there's various tests that you can perform for that and this UBeeO is sort of a novel way of testing for it." Alger's team recently studied a screening tool developed by scientists at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro that tests colonies for hygienic behavior by mimicking the pheromones emitted by sick or dying bees. The researchers found the UBeeO test can identify colonies resistant to several pests and pathogens that can decimate bee populations such as Vairimorpha (known to many beekeepers as Nosema) and fungal infections including chalkbrood. They published their findings in Frontiers in Bee Science April 2. "UBeeO has been known to identify colonies that are able to better resist Varroa mites, but it had not been used to look at other pest or pathogens," Alger says. "We found this new assay could be used to identify colonies that are resistant to these other stressors." How it works Picture a honey bee colony. Inside the boxed hive are frames with hexagonal holes where a queen bee lays one egg inside each cell. As the eggs hatch, nurse bees feed the developing larvae and eventually cap over the cells with wax to protect them as they mature into adults. When nurse bees detect a developing bee is sick or dead, they will uncap the cell and remove the pupa to protect the rest of the hive. This is called hygienic behavior and pheromones play an important role in this process. "Other folks have identified death pheromones, these compounds that are associated with death," says Kaira Wagoner, a research scientist at UNC Greensboro and co-author of the study. "The famous biologist E.O. Wilson was one of the first to do this. He found oleic acid was emitted from dead ants. The same thing has been found with bees, and it's just likely a stronger signal -- it's growing as the dead brood is basically decomposing in the cell. The signals that are coming out of unhealthy brood are different and very likely more subtle than those death pheromones." Previous hygiene tests for beekeepers were based off the idea of testing the bees' ability to detect dead brood. One of the most common methods, the freeze brood assay, involves pouring liquid nitrogen over a section of capped cells and waiting 24 hours to see if the bees start removing the dead. The UBeeO test is different. "Rather than using liquid nitrogen to kill the developing pupae or larvae, you are using a blend of synthetic pheromones that mimics the same chemicals that are emitted by dying or diseased brood," Alger explains. "So rather than testing the bees' ability to identify dead brood, you are testing the bees' ability to identify diseased brood, which means that this test is a little bit more selective and realistic to what bees experience." Wagoner co-developed UBeeO during her doctoral studies after she identified chemical compounds associated with unhealthy brood odors. She co-founded Optera, (named for Hymenoptera, the order of the honeybee), to bring UBeeO to beekeepers in the field. It became publicly available in 2024. "It's a really young technology," Wagoner says. "We've now tested it in over 10 different countries, and there are breeding programs in at least 5 now so there's a lot more data to come." Strength of the investigation The study focuses on UBeeO tests performed in three geographic regions -- Vermont, North Carolina, and Australia -- to examine its effectiveness at recognizing colonies resistant to pathogens and disease. The UBeeO test involves spraying a section of capped cells with synthetic pheromones and then waiting two hours to see if nurse bees have started to inspect the developing bees for problems. The percentage of disturbed cells is the UBeeO score. The researchers found that higher UBeeO scores were associated with lower levels of disease load. The findings also showed various thresholds to disease resistance for common honey bee pathogens. "What we found, at least with this Australian dataset, is they only needed to achieve a 13 percent response on the UBeeO test to be really pretty resistant to chalkbrood. In contrast, colonies need to achieve a response of 55 or 60% on the UBeeO test to be resistant to mites, Wagoner explains. "The honey bee responsiveness largely depends on how virulent or how harmful the specific disease is to the brood. Chalkbrood kills the brood, so the bees don't have to be as sensitive to detect it." Varroa mite infection is trickier. These tiny parasitic mites were introduced about four decades ago in the United States and are vectors of disease to bee populations. They pose a significant threat to colonies and reproduce by laying eggs inside the capped over cells and feed off the developing pupa. If nurse bees don't detect a problem, Varroa mites will be released into the hive when the young honey bee emerges. That is where hygienic behavior becomes critical since uncapping the cells disrupts the mites' life cycle. The study also revealed the UBeeO test could identify colonies with resistance to Vairimorpha (previously Nosema), a disease that affects adult bees and not the developing brood. That finding has prompted new research into how hygienic behavior works to keep these Vairimorpha levels down. "In the case of Vairimorpha, what they're doing is kind of the mystery," Alger says. " There might be other behaviors that hygienic colonies are performing aside of what we know." A new study sheds light on how prehistoric hunter-gatherer populations in Europe coped with climate changes over 12,000 years ago. Led by scientists from the University of Cologne, a team of 25 prehistoric archaeologists from twenty European universities and research institutions revealed significant shifts in population size and density during key periods at the end of the last Ice Age, specifically during the Final Palaeolithic between 14,000 and 11,600 years ago. The study has been published in PLOS One under the title 'Large scale and regional demographic responses to climatic changes in Europe during the Final Palaeolithic'. The results reveal that the first establishment of a larger human population in north-eastern central Europe during the Final Palaeolithic was followed by a dramatic population decline during the last cold period (Greenland Stadial 1) of the Ice Age. This decline reduced the total population of Europe by half. However, the study found that some areas in central Europe show stability or even a slight increase in population size against the general trend. The team interprets this finding as evidence of human migration towards the east in response to worsening climate conditions. By compiling a comprehensive database on archaeological sites from this period and using a cutting-edge geostatistical method called the Cologne Protocol, the researchers estimated population sizes and densities of prehistoric humans across different regions of Europe. The protocol provides a standardised procedure to estimate prehistoric demographic data, allowing for diachronic comparisons. The identified shifts in regional population sizes provide new insights into how early humans responded to the environmental challenges of their time. The study focuses on two key periods: Greenland Interstadial 1d-a (GI-1d-a) and Greenland Stadial 1 (GS-1). During GI-1d-a, a warmer period of the Final Palaeolithic, humans continued to repopulate and expand into northern and north-eastern central Europe, making this region the centre of demographic dynamics in Europe for the first time in prehistory. Populations in south-western Europe, particularly in Spain and France, began to decline compared to population estimates for the preceding periods of the Upper Palaeolithic. When the climate turned much colder during the subsequent GS-1, a climatic period known in the northern Hemisphere as the 'Younger Dryas', the total population of Europe decreases by half. But the new study shows that regional dynamics varied considerably: The estimates indicate an increase in population density in some areas of Europe (e.g. northern Italy, Poland and north-eastern Germany) as well as a general shift of populated areas from west to east. "These observations probably reflect the eastward movement of people in response to the very abrupt and pronounced climatic cooling during the Younger Dryas," explains Dr Isabell Schmidt from the University of Cologne's Department of Prehistoric Archaeology. "Humans during the Final Palaeolithic apparently responded by migrating to more favourable areas." The Cologne researchers are familiar with extreme population declines in Prehistory, such as during the late Gravettian (29,000 to 25,000 years ago), when cooler temperatures reduced populations in western and central Europe by up to two-thirds, leading to the extinction of regional populations. Although demographic dynamics, particularly in these early phases of human prehistory, are still poorly understood, the new study adds to a growing body of evidence on how prehistoric humans responded to climate change, investigated at the University of Cologne in the framework of the Collaborative Research Centre 806 -- Our Way to Europe, which was funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) from 2009 to 2021. This work is currently being continued by the project HESCOR (Human and Earth System Coupling Research) at the University of Cologne, funded by the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia. Groundbreaking research by physicists at The City College of New York is being credited for a novel discovery regarding the interaction of electronic excitations via spin waves. The finding by the Laboratory for Nano and Micro Photonics (LaNMP) team headed by physicist Vinod Menon could open the door to future technologies and advanced applications such as optical modulators, all-optical logic gates, and quantum transducers. The work is reported in the journal Nature Materials. The researchers showed the emergence of interaction between electronic excitations (excitons -- electron hole pairs) mediated via spin waves in atomically thin (2D) magnets. They demonstrated that the excitons can interact indirectly through magnons (spin waves), which are like ripples or waves in the 2D material's magnetic structure. "Think of magnons as tiny flip-flops of atomic magnets inside the crystal. One exciton changes the local magnetism, and that change then influences another exciton nearby. It's like two floating objects pulling toward each other by disturbing water waves around them," said Menon. To demonstrate this, the Menon group utilized a magnetic semiconductor, CrSBr which the group had previously shown to host strong light-matter interaction (Nature, 2023). Post-doctoral fellows Biswajit Datta and Pratap Chandra Adak led the research along with graduate students Sichao Yu and Agneya Dharmapalan in collaboration with the groups at the CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, University of Chemistry and Technology -- Prague, RPTU -- Kaiserslautern, Germany and NREL, USA. "What is especially exciting about this discovery is that the interaction between excitons can be controlled externally using a magnetic field, thanks to the tunable magnetism of 2D materials. That means we can effectively switch the interaction on or off, which is hard to do with other types of interactions," said Datta. "One particularly exciting application enabled by this discovery is in the development of quantum transducers -- devices that convert quantum signals from one frequency to another, such as from microwave to optical. These are key components for building quantum computers and enabling the quantum internet." said Adak, another lead author of this work. The work at CCNY was supported by U.S. Department of Energy -- Office of Basic Energy Sciences, The Army Research Office, The National Science Foundation and The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. A hidden threat facing one of Australia's most iconic birds has been uncovered in a new study led by researchers from the University of Copenhagen and The Australian National University (ANU). The critically endangered regent honeyeater once numbered in the hundreds of thousands, but their population has dwindled to fewer than 300. By analysing the DNA of museum specimens more than 100 years old and comparing it to modern samples, the team discovered that despite a population decline of 99 per cent, this has not been entirely mirrored by genetics. The bird has lost 9 per cent of its genetic diversity. According to the authors, this disparity reflects a "time-lag" in genetic erosion -- where genetic variation declines more slowly than population size. "This delay might be hiding the looming genetic risks," Dr Ross Crates from ANU said. "Our simulations show that diversity loss will continue and even accelerate, and the species is already likely experiencing diminished genetic health because of this process. "With this information in hand, we can better protect the regent honeyeaters. We can identify priority habitats, optimise breeding programs, and closely watch for signs of inbreeding before it becomes a critical problem." To better understand the challenges the birds face, the study also used environmental modelling. Based on historical records and projections of future climates, the authors found that ongoing habitat loss, urban development, and climate change have dramatically reduced the regent honeyeater's suitable breeding and feeding grounds. Their models predict that conditions could worsen within the next few decades, especially for the species' remaining strongholds. "This work shows how combining different datasets, such as genomic data and species distribution modelling, can provide a more complete picture of biodiversity decline," explained co-author Professor David Nogues-Bravo. Associate Professor Hernan E. Morales, who led the study, added: "We must take the threat of genomic erosion seriously in the midst of today's biodiversity crisis. Although the regent honeyeater's genetic diversity looks relatively high, our findings show it's already eroding, and ongoing environmental threats only compound this risk. "Loss of genetic variation can occur stealthily -- and swiftly -- after populations reach critically low levels. This gap between demographic collapse and noticeable genetic erosion is a hidden extinction risk." You are here: Arts A scene in the upcoming film "A Minecraft Movie" features several giant pandas in a bizarre, cubic wonderland. [Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures] "A Minecraft Movie," the first live-action film adaptation of the popular video game "Minecraft," will be released simultaneously across the Chinese mainland and North America on April 4. Starring Hollywood actors Jason Momoa and Jack Black, the film follows four misfits who find themselves struggling with ordinary problems until they are suddenly pulled through a mysterious portal into a bizarre, cubic wonderland. To return home, they must master this world, protect it from evil forces, and embark on a magical quest. Jointly produced by Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures, the film held a preview screening in Beijing on March 31, with several cinema locations replicating scenes from the movie. The film stars Jason Momoa (center), Jack Black (left) and Sebastian Hansen. [Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures] As part of the prelude events leading up to the 15th Beijing International Film Festival, an exhibition for the film has also been hosted at Taikoo Li Sanlitun, a shopping complex in east Beijing. Russia loses more than 4,000 tanks during its aggression against Ukraine media Photo: https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua Russia's losses in equipment during the full-scale aggression against Ukraine have reached four thousand tanks, NTD reported on Thursday. "The Russians have lost more than 4,000 tanks, which is the inventory almost of the United States tank corps," NTD quoted NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Christopher Cavoli as saying during a hearing in the US Senate committee. Photo: https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua Over the course of 24 hours, the occupiers lost 1,380 units of manpower and 142 units of equipment, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said in a report as of 7:00 a.m. on Friday. In particular, Ukrainian soldiers destroyed seven tanks, 30 combat armored vehicles, 38 artillery systems, one MLRS, 66 units of automotive equipment and tanker trucks. Air strikes cost the enemy 72 destroyed operational-tactical level UAVs. Over the past 24 hours, 156 combat clashes have been recorded. This was reported by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Telegram in operational information regarding the Russian invasion as of 8:00 on Friday. "Yesterday, the enemy launched one missile and 104 air strikes, using one missile and 193 guided bombs. In addition, it carried out more than 5,600 attacks, 146 of which were from multiple launch rocket systems, and used 2,203 kamikaze drones for destruction," the General Staff reported. Keras Resources announced significant progress under its cooperation agreement with the Republic of Togo on Friday, as the state-owned mining company Societe Togolaise de Manganese (STM) had secured a mining permit for the Nayega manganese project, enabling the start of full-scale operations. The AIM-traded firm said STM had awarded the mining and logistics contract for Nayega to Carrieres Mines Travaux Publics (CMTP), following a competitive tender overseen by Togos public procurement authority. CMTP, which previously managed the 2018 bulk sampling at Nayega, would oversee both the mining and processing activities as well as transportation of upgraded ore to the port of Lome. STM had also entered into a sale and purchase agreement with Fujax Group for the first 400,000 tonnes of manganese ore produced. Keras, which introduced Fujax to STM, is a signatory to the offtake deal under the terms of its 2023 cooperation agreement with the state. As part of that agreement, Keras said it would receive a 1.5% advisory fee and a 6.0% brokerage fee based on gross revenue from Nayega. The advisory fee would apply for three years, while the brokerage fee would apply to either 3.5 years or the first 900,000 tonnes of ore sold, whichever comes first. STM had been active on site since June last year, and planned to begin mobilisation of mining operations imminently. The award of the Nayega exploitation permit and the Offtake is certainly welcome and we look forward to further information related to the mobilisation of CMTP and on the re-development of Nayega, said interim executive chairman Russell Lamming. The cashflow due under the cooperation agreement will underpin the progress and associated cash flows from the US operations. I look forward to updating shareholders in the near term. At 1012 BST, shares in Keras Resources were up 15.38% at 1.5p. Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com. China announced a 34% tariff on all US imports on Friday, matching new duties imposed by US president Donald Trump earlier this week and sharply escalating trade tensions between the worlds two largest economies. The new measures, set to take effect on 10 April according to the Financial Times, signalled a deepening trade conflict that is rattling global financial markets. Beijing described Washingtons latest tariff hike as an act of unilateral bullying that violated international trade norms and undermined Chinas legitimate interests. The tit-for-tat exchange came at a crucial time for Chinese president Xi Jinping, who had relied on export growth to support the countrys economy amid a prolonged property crisis and persistent deflationary pressures. Trumps tariff policy, unveiled as a set of reciprocal duties, had already targeted key Chinese sectors and drawn condemnation from Beijing. Financial markets reacted sharply to the escalating trade dispute. Global equities extended losses on Friday, with the Stoxx 600 falling more than 4% and the S&P 500 futures down 2%. The FTSE 100 shed almost 3%, while Germanys DAX dropped just under 5%. Investors were reportedly moving into safer assets, driving US Treasury yields to their lowest point since October. In a further step, China also imposed export bans on seven types of rare earths and added US tech firms, including drone manufacturers Skydio and Brinc Drones, to its unreliable entity list. The designation bars Chinese companies from supplying key components to the listed firms, intensifying pressure on US technology interests. Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com. European stock markets were in freefall on Friday as China announced retaliatory measures to swingeing US tariffs, sending the Stoxx 600 index down more than 5% and below 500 points. China said it would match the tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump and hit US imports with a 34% levy and added 11 firms to a list of companies barred from doing business in the country. China's customs agency said it would also stop chicken imports from some US producers. All major bourses were down sharply by midday GMT with Germany's DAX down 4.65%, Britain's FTSE 100 3.63%, France's CAC-40 more than 4% and the Eurostoxx 50 - which covers the eurozone - off by 4.63%. Europes benchmark index closed 2.57% lower on Thursday after US President Donald Trump slapped a minimum 10% levy on more than 180 countries, effectively starting a global trade war. Raifeissen Bank, Sabadell, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Danske Bank, Standard Chartered and BPER Banca were among the major fallers, most down by more than 10% Despite months of sabre-rattling by Donald Trump, markets appear to have been unprepared for the depth and breadth of tariffs announced by the White House, said Derren Nathan, head of equity research at Hargreaves Lansdown. In other equity news, shares in Gerresheimer plunged by a fifth on a report that KKR has withdrawn from the private equity consortium pursuing a potential acquisition the German pharmaceutical packaging and drug delivery systems maker. Oil prices fell again after a 6.4% plunge on Thursday. Brent crude was down almost 2% $68.79 a barrel as investors feared a slowdown in the global economy and an upcoming output increase planned by OPEC+ nations next week. In other economic news, the eurozone construction sector remained in contraction in March as activity fell sharply, although at a softer pace due to a slower decline in new orders according to a survey published on Friday. HCOBs eurozone construction PMI total activity index came in at 44.8 in March, up from 42.7 in February, the softest reduction in new orders since April 2022, but still well below the 50 mark that indicates expansion. German factory orders unexpectedly stalled in February, official research showed on Friday. According to Destatis, the Federal Statistical Office, new orders in manufacturing showed no growth in February compared to the previous month. That was an improvement on Januarys 5.5% slump, which had been revised upwards from the provisional reading of -7%. But it remained well below forecasts for growth of 3.5%. Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com London stocks were in freefall by midday on Friday as Trumps trade war escalated after China said it would impose additional tariffs of 34% on US imports. The FTSE 100 was down 3.5%. European stocks fared even worse, with the benchmark Stoxx 600 index down 4.1%, while Germanys DAX and Frances CAC were off 4.3% and 3.8% respectively. China, which is facing a 54% tariffs on its exports to the US, said the tariffs would be imposed from 10 April. Investors were also mulling comments from International Monetary Fund chief Kristalina Georgieva, who said that US tariffs were "a significant risk to the global outlook". She said in a statement that it was "important to avoid steps that could further harm the world economy" and appealed to the US and its trading partners "to work constructively to resolve trade tensions and reduce uncertainty". Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, said: "With markets having suffered their worst week in five years, investors were hiding under their duvet on Friday hoping the pain would go away. "Unfortunately, the relentless selling continued, with markets falling across Asia and Europe and futures prices implying the US will do the same when trading begins later on. "There are so many moving parts that getting your head around the situation isnt easy. With countless sectors set to be hit by tariffs, its difficult to know where to begin to comprehend the situation." As far as the March payrolls figures are concerned, Kathleen Brooks, research director at XTB they seem "very stale and out of date after this weeks tariff announcements". "Fridays payrolls data will not be impacted by Trumps extreme tariffs, we will need to wait for the coming months to see how this could impact the hard US economic data, which has only moderated slightly, compared to a sharp fall in the soft economic data since the start of 2025. Either way, payrolls are always worth watching," she said. On home shores, a survey showed that the construction sector faltered in March, as higher costs and a drop in new orders prompted companies to cut jobs. The S&P Global construction purchasing managers index came in at 46.4 in March, an improvement on Februarys multi-year low of 44.6 and marginally ahead of consensus for 46.0. But it remains well below the neutral 50.0 benchmark. A reading above 50.0 suggests growth while one below it indicates contraction. The survey showed a drop in output levels for the third consecutive month, alongside sharply rising input costs. The reduction in employment was the fastest in nearly four-and-a-half years, meanwhile, as companies introduced hiring freezes and did not replace departing staff. Among individual sectors, civil engineering was the poorest performing, falling to 38.8 from 39.3 a month earlier on the back of a subdued pipeline of major infrastructure work and delayed decision-making on new projects. Commercial building fell from 49.0 to 47.4, the fastest rate of contraction since January 2021. Residential construction also remained in contraction, at 44.7, although it was a notable improvement on Februarys 39.3. Tim Moore, economics director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said: "March data highlighted a challenging month for UK construction companies, as sharply reduced order volumes continued to weigh on overall workloads. "Companies remained cautious about their year ahead growth prospects, as fewer sales conversions and a third successive monthly reduction in total new work hit confidence levels. "Overall business optimism slipped to its lowest since October 2023." In equity markets, it was a similar story to Thursday in terms of which sectors were winning and which were losing, with cyclicals such as banks under the cosh but defensive utilities the best performers. Barclays, NatWest, HSBC, Lloyds and Standard Chartered tumbled, while SSE, National Grid, United Utilities and Severn Trent gained. BP slumped after the oil giant said that its chair was stepping down amid calls by investor groups for a shake-up of the board. Helge Lund, who has held the role since January 2019, will leave "in due course", BP said, most likely in 2026 once his successor has been appointed. The announcement comes less than a month after activist investor Follow This said it would call for a vote against Lunds reappointment at Aprils shareholder meeting. Market Movers FTSE 100 (UKX) 8,180.98 -3.47% FTSE 250 (MCX) 18,583.52 -3.26% techMARK (TASX) 4,433.69 -3.04% FTSE 100 - Risers SSE (SSE) 1,696.00p 2.60% National Grid (NG.) 1,076.00p 2.18% United Utilities Group (UU.) 1,088.50p 1.63% Marks & Spencer Group (MKS) 374.60p 0.97% Associated British Foods (ABF) 1,996.50p 0.68% Severn Trent (SVT) 2,710.00p 0.63% Tesco (TSCO) 347.60p 0.58% Unilever (ULVR) 4,809.00p 0.52% British American Tobacco (BATS) 3,198.00p 0.50% Imperial Brands (IMB) 2,912.00p 0.41% FTSE 100 - Fallers Barclays (BARC) 244.60p -9.71% Glencore (GLEN) 235.75p -9.61% NATWEST GROUP (NWG) 410.70p -9.24% Antofagasta (ANTO) 1,432.00p -8.32% HSBC Holdings (HSBA) 741.30p -7.88% Lloyds Banking Group (LLOY) 64.42p -7.58% Rolls-Royce Holdings (RR.) 691.00p -7.37% Melrose Industries (MRO) 418.60p -7.20% Standard Chartered (STAN) 928.00p -7.11% Anglo American (AAL) 1,862.80p -7.05% FTSE 250 - Risers Hilton Food Group (HFG) 848.00p 1.31% Pennon Group (PNN) 478.00p 1.01% Primary Health Properties (PHP) 97.75p 0.67% B&M European Value Retail S.A. (DI) (BME) 285.00p 0.42% Bakkavor Group (BAKK) 189.60p 0.21% Foresight Solar Fund Limited (FSFL) 79.00p 0.13% Greencoat UK Wind (UKW) 106.40p 0.09% Derwent London (DLN) 1,880.00p 0.05% Bluefield Solar Income Fund Limited (BSIF) 88.60p 0.00% Tami Senior Securitisation 2 Ltd Cls A-2 Mb Fxd Rte Nts 31/12/23 (Reg S) (BP00) 0.00p 0.00% FTSE 250 - Fallers TBC Bank Group (TBCG) 3,690.00p -8.55% RHI Magnesita N.V. (DI) (RHIM) 2,625.00p -8.38% Just Group (JUST) 128.20p -8.03% Paragon Banking Group (PAG) 682.50p -7.77% Carnival (CCL) 1,121.50p -7.54% Lion Finance Group (BGEO) 4,892.00p -7.52% OSB Group (OSB) 392.20p -7.24% SSP Group (SSPG) 142.80p -7.09% Hochschild Mining (HOC) 254.60p -7.08% Vesuvius (VSVS) 340.40p -7.05% The chair of BP is to step down, the oil and gas major announced on Friday, amid calls by investor groups for a shake-up of the board. Helge Lund, who has held the role since January 2019, will leave "in due course", BP said, most likely in 2026 once his successor has been appointed. The announcement comes less than a month after activist investor Follow This said it would call for a vote against Lunds reappointment at Aprils shareholder meeting. The group is angry that Lund did not offer an investors a say on BPs decision to scrap its energy transition targets. Chief executive Murray Auchincloss announced earlier this year that BP would cut spending on renewables and boost investment in oil and gas, reversing earlier radical plans to slash fossil fuel output and transform BP into a green-focused business Follow This, which campaigns on environmental issues, argued that shareholders should have been offered a direct vote on the new strategy. The Local Authority Pension Fund Forum also recommended voting against Lunds re-appointment and abstained on whether Auchincloss should be re-elected, also citing governance around the strategy shift. However, other shareholder groups - including Institutional Shareholder Services and Glass Lewis - recommended voting in favour of the re-election of both the board and management. Lund said on Friday: "Having fundamentally reset our strategy, BPs focus now is on delivering the strategy at pace, improving performance and growing shareholder value. "Now is the right time to start the process to find my successor and enable an orderly and seamless handover. "The board and I are commented to supporting Murray and his team, and to overseeing BPs delivery of its strategic and financial objectives." Senior independent director Amanda Blanc, who will lead the search for Lunds successor, said: "We are starting a comprehensive search to identify candidates with the credibility and relevant experience to lead the board and continue driving management's safe execution of the reset strategy." The Russian president's special representative for economic cooperation with foreign countries, Kirill Dmitriev, said that the key topic of his talks in Washington with representatives of the US presidential administration was the issue of restoring Russian-American relations, RFE/RL reported. According to Dmitriev, the meetings with key members of the American administration concerned the resumption of dialogue between Russia and the United States, which had been completely stopped under the presidency of Joe Biden, but the Trump administration, he said, is committed to resolving the entire spectrum of issues and "hears Russia's position." "But we would like to emphasize that the Trump administration, the key people in the administration, are focused on resolving the entire spectrum of issues in Russian-American relations, they are focused on resolving geopolitical issues, they hear Russia's position on many issues," RFE/RL quoted Dmitriev as saying. Dmitriev added that Russia and the United States have made significant progress on Ukraine. "And we also see that significant progress has already been made. For example, under the leadership of President Putin and President Trump, an agreement was reached on not actually striking energy infrastructure between Russia and Ukraine, which is certainly the first such step in de-escalating the Ukrainian conflict," the Russian presidential spokesman said. The Russian politician did not specify with whom he met, but earlier the CNN television channel, which was the first to report on the Russian representatives trip to Washington, claimed that Dmitriev would meet with the US Presidents special envoy Steve Witkoff. photo: Herbert Kuper Jaap de Roode grew up in the Netherlands, where he studied biology at Wageningen University. He's now a biology professor at Emory University, where he researches monarch butterflies and their infectious diseases. His discovery that monarchs can use toxic plants as medicine led him to write Doctors by Nature: How Ants, Apes & Other Animals Heal Themselves (Princeton University Press), which takes readers into a realm often thought to be the exclusive domain of humans, exploring how scientists are turning to the medical knowledge of the animal kingdom. Handsell readers your book in 25 words or less: Animals use all sorts of medicines to keep themselves healthy. By studying bees, bears, and butterflies, we may save agriculture and discover new drugs. On your nightstand now: Too many books really! I just finished The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden, which I thought was an amazing perspective on postwar Holocaust survivors in the Netherlands. Now I am on The Red Queen: Sex and the Evolution of Human Nature by Matt Ridley, a popular science book that explains the evolution of human nature (I am rereading it and loving it as much as I did over 20 years ago). My pile also includes Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver (I started it, but haven't finished yet), The Civil War by Bruce Catton (slowly making progress), and Eight Bears by Gloria Dickie (can't wait to get going on that). Favorite book when you were a child: I guess it has to be De Kameleon (The Chameleon) by Hotze de Roos. This book series deals with a pair of twin boys who live in the northeastern part of the Netherlands, where they have many adventures with a boat they manage to paint in such a way that it keeps changing colors (hence the name). I dreamed of being on that boat and experiencing sunny days in the typical Dutch landscape of lakes, pastures, and red roof-tiled villages. Your top five authors: It is hard to pick favorites, but I really like the books by J.R.R. Tolkien and J.K. Rowling. Frans de Waal's books on the similarities between animals and humans have been hugely influential to me. I also love Harry Mulisch's books, which told me much about how the Second World War has shaped life in the Netherlands. I should also include Tara Westover for her memoir Educated. Book you've faked reading: To be honest: anything by Shakespeare. It is not so much that I faked reading it, but that I simply gave up, and opted for Tales from Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb instead. I was made to read Shakespeare in high school in the Netherlands when I was 14 or 15 years old and hardly spoke any English yet. That was a sure way to put off a Dutch reader from enjoying some of the most important literature in world history! Book you're an evangelist for: Watership Down by Richard Adams. I love how Adams turned his made-up stories about rabbits to keep his children occupied during long car rides into a saga of human strength, conflict, and morality. I read it for my English class and would not stop talking about it during my final oral exam. I was so obsessed with this book that my dad took me to the actual Watership Down (yes, the hill exists) in England to celebrate my high school graduation! Book you've bought for the cover: You May Now Kill the Bride by Kate Weston. I like getting page-turning thrillers for long flights, and this one's sleek design stood out in the bookshop at the airport. Book you hid from your parents: I am not sure I ever hid a book from my parents. They were quite happy with my reading tons of books. Then again, I did not read any controversial or erotic books at the time. Book that changed your life: My parents gave me a Dutch book by David Suzuki that accompanied his TV series The Secrets of Life. I was truly mesmerized by the way in which he described how DNA worked, and the immense amounts of genetic information that each of our cells contains. His analogy was to show massive filing cabinets filled with papers that only had A's, C's, T's, and G's on them. And then he explained how you went from those letters to actual life! I think that book ultimately turned me into a biologist. I actually met him several years ago when he gave a seminar at Emory University, and it was like meeting a rock star. Favorite line from a book: "In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit" --from The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. I cannot remember many specific lines from books, but I feel this sentence nicely captures the character of hobbits. And it is just a great opening sentence. Five books you'll never part with: Watership Down by Richard Adams; An Outdoor Journal by Jimmy Carter (signed by the author!); all 16 volumes of my grandfather's antique Winkler Prins Encyclopedia. Book you most want to read again for the first time: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. I think it is the best in the series, and I remember my excitement to try to figure out if Harry was a horcrux. I would love to relive that quest. Accurate Horoscope Predictions with famous Indian Astrologer Acharya Devraj JI, one of the Best Astrologer in Dubai & the UAE Ever felt lost? Like you're wandering through a maze with no exit in sight? Many people seek guidance when life throws curveballs. They want to understand their path and make better choices. Some turn to astrology for answers, and that's where Acharya Devraj Ji comes in. He has made a name for himself as a trusted astrologer. People in both India and the UAE look to him for insight. Astrology is gaining popularity in both India and the UAE. More individuals are discovering how it can provide a deeper understanding of themselves. This is why it is important to find someone who can provide reliable advice. Acharya Devraj Ji stands out as a leading figure best astrologer in UAE. He helps people understand their lives through his skills and dedication. Let's explore what makes him special. Acharya Devraj Ji: A Profile of Excellence Background and Experience Acharya Devraj Ji isn't new to the world of astrology. He has spent years studying and practicing it. His deep understanding comes from his training in astrological studies. Born and raised in New Delhi, India, Acharya Devraj Ji's fascination with astrology turned into kindled at an early age, inspired by a family lineage wealthy in astrological subculture. His inherent hobby led him to pursue formal schooling in astrology, in which he immersed himself in diverse astrological systems under the mentorship of esteemed authorities. His research encompassed Vedic Astrology, Krishnamurti Paddhati (KP) Astrology, Advanced Nadi Astrology, and Vedic Numerology, equipping him with a comprehensive information of the sector. Areas of Expertise Acharya Ji's knowledge covers various areas. This includes Vedic astrology, which is one of the oldest systems. He also knows about numerology, where numbers reveal hidden truths. Vastu Shastra is another skill, focusing on creating harmonious spaces. Many also seek his help with love compatibility readings. Career guidance is another area where he helps people find their path. Acharya Devraj Ji's approach to astrology is both technical and scientific. He meticulously analyzes the positions and moves of celestial our bodies, using strategies consisting of sub-lord evaluation within the Nadi astrology gadget. This approach entails dividing each zodiac signal and constellation into sub-lords, taking into account a nuanced interpretation of planetary impacts on an person's life. In numerology, he integrates an man or woman's delivery date and future numbers to offer correct readings. Vedic numerology, rooted in ancient Indian teachings, enables him to unveil the mystical importance of numbers and their effect on human life. This twin understanding lets in Acharya Devraj Ji to provide holistic insights into a person's strengths, weaknesses, and lifestyles course. Best Career Astrologer in Dubai and UAE: Acharya Devraj Jis Unmatched Expertise Finding the right career path can be overwhelming, especially when traditional methods leave you with more questions than answers. Thats where Acharya Devraj Ji sets himself apart as a trusted guide in Dubai and the UAE. With over 18 years of expertise in Vedic astrology, he uses precise birth chart analyses to provide clarity and direction for your professional journey. His unique approach combines ancient wisdom with practical insights, helping countless individuals align their career decisions with their astrological profiles. Whether you're seeking a new opportunity or unsure about your potential, Acharya Devraj Jis personalized predictions could be the solution youve been searching for. Who is Acharya Devraj Ji Acharya Devraj Ji is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished career astrologers in Dubai, the UAE, and beyond. With over 19 years of experience, he has become a trusted figure for individuals seeking clarity and guidance in their professional lives. His insights, rooted in the ancient practice of Vedic astrology, have transformed the careers of countless individuals, helping them align their aspirations with the cosmic influences at play. A Legacy of Astrological Expertise Acharya Devraj Jis journey in astrology is marked by a deep understanding of Vedic principles, honed through years of study and practice. His ability to interpret birth charts with precision sets him apart, enabling him to offer highly accurate and detailed career advice. From assessing planetary positions to predicting the timing of career opportunities, his work reflects not only technical mastery but also a genuine commitment to helping his clients succeed. Whether it's identifying the ideal career path or uncovering hidden talents through astrology, Acharya Devraj Ji brings a comprehensive approach that resonates with individuals at every stage of their professional journey. Many of his clients credit his guidance for major turning points in their lives, often sharing how his predictions provided the clarity they needed during challenging times. When it comes to career astrology, few can match his blend of intuition and expertise. Global Recognition While Acharya Devraj Ji has become a household name in Dubai and the UAE, his influence extends far beyond these regions. He is recognized globally for his unmatched skills in career astrology, with clients spanning continents. Individuals from the US, Europe, Asia, and beyond have sought his services, often traveling great distances or consulting online just to benefit from his insights. Acharya Devraj Jis global reach is a testament to the universal applicability of his methods. His ability to connect the timeless wisdom of Vedic astrology with practical, modern-day career challenges has earned him a loyal international following. He frequently conducts workshops, seminars, and consultations that draw participants from diverse backgrounds, all eager to tap into his profound knowledge. Acharya Devraj Jis growing presence on digital platforms has further cemented his reputation, making his services accessible to anyone, anywhere in the world. Whether youre an entrepreneur, a job seeker, or someone navigating the complexities of professional life, his astrological expertise offers a unique compass to steer you toward success. Understanding Career Astrology with Acharya Devraj Ji Acharya Devraj Jis approach to career guidance goes beyond conventional advice. By combining ancient Vedic astrology with modern tools, he provides personalized insights that can help individuals make confident career decisions. Lets explore how his unique methodologies and profound understanding of astrology aid in unlocking career potential. The Role of Birth Charts in Career Predictions Your birth chart is like a cosmic blueprint, offering clues about your life path, strengths, and opportunities. Acharya Devraj Ji analyzes essential details from your birth - such as the exact time, date, and location - to understand the planetary positions and their influence on your career. Every planet and house in your chart has a story to tell: 10th House (Midheaven): This is the cornerstone of career astrology. It reveals your professional aspirations, major achievements, and public image. 2nd House: Influences finances and resources, key components of career satisfaction. 6th House: Reflects your work environment, daily job roles, and areas of service. 11th House: Highlights networking, professional relationships, and gains from your efforts. Acharya Devraj Ji uses a meticulous process to decode these connections, helping individuals identify the career paths most aligned with their natural talents and cosmic design. Unique Methodologies and Tools What sets Acharya Devraj Ji apart is his use of specialized techniques and tools to ensure accuracy in his readings. His career predictions arent just based on generalizations - they're tailored to each persons unique astrological profile. Here are some of the tools he commonly uses: Career Calculators: These tools provide quick insights based on your birth details, narrowing down ideal career options. Dasha Systems: Specific planetary periods are analyzed to pinpoint the exact timing for career changes or advancements. Job Horoscopes: By analyzing the current planetary transits, Acharya Devraj Ji foresees upcoming opportunities or challenges in your professional journey. His attention to detail ensures that every prediction is practical and actionable, giving you a clear roadmap to follow. Comprehensive Analysis and Accurate Predictions When it comes to astrology, precision matters, and Acharya Devraj Ji excels at offering in-depth insights that deliver actionable results. His ability to read planetary positions and decipher astrological patterns allows him to make informed predictions about your career trajectory. He examines every detail, from overarching planetary cycles like Mahadasha and Antardasha to current transits, to provide complete clarity on your professional future. Personalized Horoscope Readings Want to know what the stars say about you? Acharya Ji creates personalized horoscopes. He uses your birth date, time, and place to map out the planets' positions. He helps you see potential challenges and opportunities. Relationship and Marriage Compatibility Are you wondering if you and your partner are a good match? Acharya Devraj Ji can assess your relationship compatibility. He looks at planetary alignments. He also considers Nakshatra matching, an important part of Vedic astrology. This can help you better understand each other. Career and Financial Guidance Confused about your career? Astrology can help you make smart career choices. Planetary positions can show your talents. They can also reveal financial opportunities. Acharya Ji uses astrology to guide you toward success. Services Offered Acharya Devraj Ji provides a wide array of astrological services tailored to address various aspects of life: Personal Consultations: Offering insights into personal challenges, relationships, and life decisions. Career Guidance: Analyzing planetary positions to recommend suitable career paths and professional growth strategies. Marriage and Compatibility Analysis: Assessing compatibility between partners and providing guidance for harmonious relationships. Numerological Analysis: Interpreting the significance of numbers in an individual's life to reveal personality traits and life patterns. Count As Top Numerologist in UAE Acharya Devraj ji Acharya Devraj Ji is a distinguished Vedic astrology and numerologist in UAE, renowned for his accurate predictions and insightful guidance. With over 19+ years of revel in, he has evolved a completely unique technique that mixes conventional Vedic astrology with modern methodologies, imparting personalized consultations tailor-made to person needs. His understanding spans diverse domains, which includes career counseling, commercial enterprise astrology, and fitness predictions. Clients recognize his ability to offer clarity and course, helping them navigate existence's demanding situations with self belief. Acharya Devraj Ji's recognition is similarly solidified via his severa certifications and energetic participation in expert numerology corporations, reflecting his dedication to the field. His offerings are on hand global, providing online consultations to cater to a international consumers. Advanced Nadi astrology experts in UAE ?Acharya Devraj Ji is a prominent Nadi astrologer in UAE who offers specific and personalized readings with out relying on traditional palm-leaf manuscripts or thumb impressions. Instead, he integrates advanced astrological techniques, inclusive of Vedic astrology, Krishnamurti Paddhati, and Vedic numerology, to offer accurate and sensible predictions. By casting off the want for bodily libraries or historical manuscripts, Acharya Devraj Ji has modernized Nadi astrology, making it handy to a global target market. His approach combines logical analysis with astrological precision, utilising equipment like Vimshottari Dasha to decode lifestyles's complexities effectively. Clients from around the arena are searching for his guidance for numerous factors of lifestyles, together with career, relationships, and fitness. His accurate predictions and practical treatments have earned him a popularity as considered one of India's main astrologers. For those interested by consulting Acharya Devraj Ji, he offers both in-individual sessions at his workplaces in Delhi and Mumbai, in addition to online consultations for clients worldwide. This flexibility guarantees that people can get entry to his offerings irrespective of their region. The Impact of Acharya Devraj Ji's Guidance Client Testimonials and Success Stories The best way to know if something works is to hear from those who've tried it. Acharya Devraj Ji has helped many individuals. Here are some of their stories. One client from India shared, "Acharya Ji helped me understand my relationship better. I was able to make better decisions." Another person in the UAE said, "His career guidance was spot on. I got a promotion soon after!" Case Studies: Real-World Applications Lets look at some examples. A woman was struggling with her business. Acharya Ji advised her to make changes based on Vastu Shastra. Her business started to improve after doing so. A young man was confused about his career path. Acharya Ji looked at his horoscope. He saw that he had a strong talent for creative fields. He pursued that and found success. Why Choose Acharya Devraj Ji Consulting Acharya Devraj Ji within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) gives people access to his significant knowledge in astrology and numerology, tailored to deal with non-public and professional issues. With over 19+ years of enjoy, Acharya Devraj Ji has constructed a popularity for correct predictions and insightful guidance, attracting a numerous clients, along with those from the UAE. His method combines traditional Vedic astrology with cutting-edge methodologies, allowing him to offer complete analyses. This modernized exercise makes his services more accessible to clients international, along with those inside the UAE. Clients within the UAE have sought his steerage for diverse elements of lifestyles, which includes career advancement, relationship counseling, and health-associated insights. His capacity to supply precise predictions and realistic treatments has earned him reputation as a leading astrologer. Acharya Devraj Ji offers bendy consultation alternatives, which include on-line periods, ensuring that clients in the UAE can without problems access his offerings. This convenience allows individuals to receive customized guidance regardless of their area. Media Recognition and Public Engagements Acharya Devraj Ji's expertise has been recognized in various media outlets. Publications such as The Hans India and Republic World have featured his work, highlighting his contributions to Vedic astrology and numerology. He is also a sought-after speaker and educator, conducting workshops and seminars to demystify Vedic sciences and empower individuals to apply these ancient wisdom traditions in their daily lives. Philosophy and Approach Central to Acharya Devraj Ji's practice is the belief that astrology serves as a guiding tool to navigate life's challenges. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's inherent potentials and aligning actions with cosmic rhythms to achieve personal and professional fulfillment. His compassionate approach ensures that clients not only receive predictions but also practical guidance and remedies to improve their life circumstances. Ethical and Accurate Practices Trust is everything when seeking guidance. Acharya Devraj Ji is committed to ethical practices. His readings are accurate and unbiased. You can be sure you're getting honest advice. Personalized and Compassionate Approach Acharya Ji cares about his clients. He takes the time to understand their problems. He listens with empathy and offers support. His goal is to help you achieve well-being. Accessibility and Convenience Getting in touch with Acharya Ji is easy. You can consult him online or in person. He also offers consultations in multiple languages. This makes his services accessible to many. Conclusion Acharya Devraj Ji is a skilled career astrologer in UAE. He provides expert advice on various life challenges. His commitment to ethics and accurate readings sets him apart. Ready to gain clarity and direction in your life? Contact Acharya Devraj Ji for a consultation. Discover the transformative power of astrology. Unlock your potential with the help of an expert. Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggested connecting India's UPI with the payment systems of the member countries of BIMSTEC in an effort to boost trade, industry and tourism in the regional bloc. In his address at the sixth summit of the 7-member group, the Prime Minister also suggested establishing a BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce and exploring ways to promote trade in local currencies in the region. Prime Minister Modi condoled the loss of lives due to the March 28 disastrous earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand and suggested the establishment of a BIMSTEC Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management in India for joint efforts at disaster preparedness, relief, and rehabilitation. The BIMSTEC Summit endorsed the Bangkok Vision 2030 to fulfill the collective aspiration of prosperity, security, and inclusivity in the Bay of Bengal region. PM Modi emphasized the necessity to constantly enlarge the ambit and reach of the BIMSTEC grouping, welcoming the institutionalization of the Home Ministers Mechanism and volunteered to host the first meeting in India. "This platform can be very useful in the battle against cybercrime, cyber security threats, terrorism, and drug and human trafficking. Accordingly, I am suggesting that its first meeting be held this year in India," he added. "BIMSTEC is a bridge linking South Asia and Southeast Asia. It is turning out to be a good platform to usher in new opportunities of regional connectivity, cooperation, and prosperity," the Prime Minister added. The BIMSTEC Summit, hosted by Thailand, has been graced by the leaders of India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan. PM Modi welcomed the opportunity to offer India's experience in establishing digital public infrastructure (DPI) to BIMSTEC nations and proposed a pilot study to clarify the particular needs of member countries in this area. Observing that connectivity of trade and business was also important for development, the Prime Minister suggested setting up a BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce and organizing a BIMSTEC Business Summit annually. "I also recommend carrying out a feasibility study on promoting trade in local currencies in the BIMSTEC region", he added. Indian Ocean is our common priority. "The Maritime Transport Agreement signed today will enhance cooperation in merchant shipping and cargo transport and spur trade", he emphasized. The Prime Minister further stated that a free, open, secure, and safe. "The Maritime Transport Agreement signed today will enhance cooperation in merchant shipping and cargo transport and spur trade", he emphasized. PM Modi spoke in support of the creation of a Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre in India. "This Centre will emphasize capacity building, research, innovation, and coordination in maritime policies. It will also enhance cooperation in maritime security", he added. India Global Forum (IGF) is set to host a high-profile discussion featuring Piyush Goyal, India's Minister of Commerce & Industry, in an exclusive conversation with Bloomberg TV at IGF Mumbai 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre on 7 April. This timely discussion comes just days after U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs on global imports, including a 27% levy on Indian exports to the United States. With the world's economic order at a pivotal moment, the Minister will delve into the implications of these tariffs on India and global markets. The conversation will focus on India's strategy to navigate shifting trade policies, bolster its manufacturing sector, and strengthen economic partnerships amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges. The two-day summit under the theme 'NXT25: Leading the Leap' will bring together CEOs, global investors and policymakers to explore the biggest trends shaping India's future on the world stage, highlighting India's ambitions for the next 25 years and its emergence as a global powerhouse in investment, technology, sustainability, and innovation. In a highly anticipated session, India's next generation of business leaders including Parth Jindal, Jay Kotak, Vaaman Sehgal and Harsh Jain feature in a no-holds-barred conversation about bold ideas, tough lessons, and the disruptive vision reshaping the country's future in a lively and unfiltered discussion. On 8 April, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will take centre stage in a fireside chat, where he will outline Maharashtra's vision for economic leadership, infrastructure development, and digital transformation. "As global trade faces unprecedented challenges following the recent tariff announcements by President Trump, IGF Mumbai 2025 comes at a critical juncture. This event will set the agenda for international collaboration and investment, offering a platform to not only respond to these developments but to shape the future of global trade. The conversations and partnerships forged at IGF Mumbai 2025 will be pivotal in driving progress across key sectors, ensuring India remains at the forefront of innovation, sustainability, and economic leadership", said Manoj Ladwa, Founder and CEO, India Global Forum. IGF Mumbai 2025 will spotlight India's role in shaping global trends and India's goal in leading economic growth, partnerships, and progress. The summit will feature thought leaders and industry pioneers across business, policy, technology, and culture, including: Sybiha meets with Rubio, informs him about Russia's violation of energy ceasefire Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/ Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at NATO headquarters and reaffirmed Ukraine's strong commitment to peace efforts. We welcome U.S. leadership in this matter. Ukraine is fully committed to peace and has taken concrete unconditional steps to achieve it, whereas Russia continues to drag its feet. I also informed my counterpart about Russias recent violations of the energy ceasefire, Sybiha said on X Thursday. Separately, he confirmed Ukraine's interest in developing mutually beneficial investment and mining cooperation with the United States as a solid foundation for deepening bilateral partnership. We also discussed next Ukraine-US contacts, the foreign minister noted. In the wake of fears over US retaliatory tariffs, Ranjit Mehta, CEO of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), commented that it is India's chance at high-quality manufacturing and international business through the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' mission. He has confidence that in the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India can convert present trade woes into a growth opportunity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump administration have good relations, and the Indian government is negotiating a bilateral trade agreement. The results of these agreements would be visible in the next four to five months, Mehta said to IANS. This is India's opportunity, and with Prime Minister Modi at the helm, it is the time to drive 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India.' We should concentrate on manufacturing quality products," he further added. Mehta stressed that although the tariffs are challenging, India's economy is strong and opportunities can be sought to limit the damage. He emphasized the necessity of providing strong support to the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector and exposure to alternative markets. "Furthermore, we can also think about giving technological assistance to the MSME sector so that their products are well-equipped to compete internationally and command the correct value in the market", he said. Talking to IANS, Mehta explained that such a step is unprecedented and will have a trade impact globally. But he underlined India's robust economic standing, pointing out that the nation is one of the fastest-growing economies with a huge market and high domestic consumption. He also noted that Indian pharma exports have been exempted from the tariffs, which is a welcome development for the industry. Mehta accepted that sectors such as textiles, gems and jewelry, and electronics that are heavily dominant in the US market could encounter difficulties. Monique Pearson, 36, of Mariners Harbor, most recently was seen on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, on a MTA bus in West Brighton. (Courtesy of NYPD) Courtesy of NYPD STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The NYPD is asking for the publics help to locate a 36-year-old Mariners Harbor woman who has been reported missing. Monique Pearson, who lives in the Mariners Harbor Houses, most recently was seen on the S46 bus at Castleton Avenue and Taylor Street in West Brighton on Wednesday at about 6:30 p.m., according to a statement from the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information. Police described the woman as standing about 5 feet, 2 inches tall and weighing 205 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. She was seen wearing a green jacket, blue jeans, and white sneakers. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of this individual is asked to call the NYPDs Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crimestoppers website at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/, or on X @NYPDTips. All calls are strictly confidential. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Jersey City Police arrested a 54-year-old man from Staten Island in connection with multiple burglaries in that state. Authorities in Jersey City are in contact with the NYPD to see if there are additional cases in New York City, according to a statement from the Jersey City Mayors Office. John Hyland of Garretson Avenue in Dongan Hills was apprehended by members of the Jersey City Police Departments Burglary Unit in the vicinity of Dwight Street and Bergen Avenue at about 2 p.m. on Wednesday. Hyland is being investigated in connection with multiple heists in Hudson County, including seven burglaries in Jersey City and four from Bayonne, according to the statement. A spokeswoman for the NYPD was not able to immediately provide any information about the investigation in New York City. In the New Jersey cases, an individual usually smashed a glass door of the business to enter and steal the cash register, officials said. For the incidents in Jersey City, Hyland faces charges that include burglary, theft by unlawful taking, burglary with tools and criminal mischief, according to the statement. No injuries were reported during any of the incidents in Jersey City. The Bayonne Police Department and the Hudson County Prosecutors Office also are involved in the probe. New York City announced initiatives to make schools safer and more supportive to families. In this 2013 photo, sixth-graders on Staten Island get on the yellow bus.(Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel) STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. New York City public schools have announced new initiatives to address systemic inequities and promote safer and more supportive schools. Mayor Eric Adams and Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos launched New York City Public School Cares, a multi-phased rollout of signature initiatives to create safer, more supportive school environments and strengthen the connection between families, schools, and city services. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Known for her kindness and unwavering dedication to helping others, Colleen Kenney-Fair left behind a legacy of service and love. Born on Nov. 6, 1985, in Brooklyn, New York, Kenney-Fair was known for her generosity and selfless spirit. After battling an autoimmune disease, she passed away on March 18 at the age of 39, where she spent her final moments in Staten Island, surrounded by her loved ones, according to her obituary. Kenney-Fair was the wife of Clifford Fair III, the daughter of Dennis and Robin Kenney, and the sister of Leanne Kenney. Kenney-Fair was known for her love, service, and kindness. (Kenney Family) GoFundMe Early Life According to the familys obituary, Kenney-Fairs life was defined by her deep commitment to serving others. Whether through her personal relationships or community involvement. This dedication to making a difference naturally guided her toward a career where she could provide help in the moments people needed it most, leading to her distinguished career with the Fire Department of New York as an Emergency Medical Technician. Kenney-Fairs colleagues at the FDNY remember her as a courageous and compassionate individual who was always ready to respond to the call of duty with professionalism and kindness. Her dedication to helping others extended beyond her job, as she actively served in the Community Emergency Response Team, where she was always ready to lend a helping hand and offer support to those in need. Kenney-Fairs passion for life shone through in everything she did. She loved staying active, whether working out or swimming, and found joy in bringing people together through her cooking. Bowling nights were a favorite pastime that was filled with laughter and friendly competition, according to her obituary. Kenney-Fairs loved ones emphasized that her warmth, thoughtfulness, and infectious laughter made her unforgettable. She never overlooked the small details, always remembering birthdays, anniversaries, and the little things that made her loved ones feel truly special. Her life philosophy, as noted in her obituary, resonated with the words of renowned poet Maya Angelou: Ive learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. Kenney-Fair lived by this belief, ensuring that everyone she encountered felt valued and cared for. Whether through her acts of kindness or her unwavering support, she left a lasting impression on those around her. Her legacy is not only in the words she spoke but in the joy she spread and the lives she touchedoften with a lighthearted sense of humor, as captured in her own memorable phrase, They do it all for sh*** & giggles. GoFundMe Info Kenney-Fairs sister, Leanne Kenney, organized a GoFundMe on behalf of her brother-in-law, Clifford. The funds raised will go towards the funeral and memorial services. On March 25, a visitation was held at the Colonial Funeral Home (2819 Hylan Blvd). The following day, the Funeral Mass was held at the Church of St. Andrew (40 Old Mill Road). Individuals can support the family by donating to and sharing their GoFundMe. The good news is, this money is legitimate. (Getty Images) Getty Images Millions of Social Security beneficiaries across the United States noticed something different about their bank accounts recently. They had grown thanks to unexpected payments which in some cases totaled thousands of dollars. And yes, they were legitimate. NBC 5 Chicago reports how these payments are the result of the Social Security Fairness Act, which was signed into law by former President Joe Biden on Jan. 5. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the Social Security Fairness Act eliminated two previous rules the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) that reduced benefits for certain retirees. The release explains how these two previous rules specifically reduced or eliminated the benefits of people who received a pension based on work that wasnt covered by Social Security also known as a non-covered pension as they didnt pay Social Security taxes. While these one-time benefits should have mostly gone out by the end of last month, many people will also start getting higher monthly benefits starting this month. Moneywise adds that, on average, these payments amount to about $6,710. This change will impact teachers, firefighters, and police officers, among other types of employees, the SSA states. Social Securitys aggressive schedule to start issuing retroactive payments in February and increase monthly benefit payments beginning in April supports President Trumps priority to implement the Social Security Fairness Act as quickly as possible, said Lee Dudek, Acting Commissioner of Social Security, via the release. The agencys original estimate of taking a year or more now will only apply to complex cases that cannot be processed by automation. The American people deserve to get their due benefits as quickly as possible. For more information, please click here. The U.S. State Department is urging residents to remain vigilant and be careful when traveling to the Bahamas. The department issued a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory for the island country on March 31. According to the State Department, violent crime, including armed robberies, sexual assaults and burglaries are a concern anywhere in the Bahamas. Most of the crime in the vacation destination occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. The department particularly highlighted the danger of the Over the Hill area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have murdered residents. Those booking stays in vacation rental properties without private security are urged to remain alert. In addition to crime, the State Department noted that boating and watercraft activities are not well regulated in the Bahamas. As reported to the department, jet ski operators have also been found to have carried out sexual assaults. Due to these risks, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from using jet skis and personal watercraft rented from independent operators on New Providence and Paradise islands, according to the State Department. Vacationers looking to soak in the sun at beaches may also want to think twice as sexual assaults on and near downtown Nassau beaches have been reported to the department. Those who do decide to travel to the Bahamas are encouraged not to answer the door to strangers, to lock the entrances to their place of stay, to not physically resist robbery attempts and to ensure they do not carry firearms or ammunition into the country as they are strictly prohibited. In this photo from 2023, families arrive at PS 53, Bay Terrace, on the first day of school. Spring break is quickly approaching for New York City students, and the dates this year are different for public and Catholic schools. (Staten Island Advance/Annalise Knudson) Its almost time for students across New York City to get a break from school. Students in Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New York and public schools will be able to enjoy time off during a week-long or more spring break later this month but during different weeks. Public school students will have a break from classes first, as the city Department of Education school calendar gives time off from April 14-18. The last day of classes before spring break is Friday, April 11, and students will return on Monday, April 21 a total of nine days off from school, including weekends. You can go here to view more important dates for the 2024-2025 public school academic year. Catholic elementary school students will then have their spring break just a week later, starting on April 18, which is also Good Friday. That means the last day of classes before Easter break is Thursday, April 17. During Easter vacation, Catholic school students will have off for Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, followed by several more days off until April 25. Easter vacation ends when students return to school on Monday, April 28. Overall, students wont head to campus from April 18-28 a total of 10 days, including weekends. Its important to note that Catholic high schools and private schools may have different dates for spring break. You can go here to view more important dates for the 2024-2025 Catholic school academic year. Spring breaks for Catholic and public schools mark the last time that both groups of students will have a long holiday recess in the current school year. The next day off for all students after spring break is Memorial Day on Monday, May 26. Students in New York City public schools will also have time off in June for two holidays Eid al-Adha on June 5 and Juneteenth on June 19. For those counting down until summer, the last day of school for public students in New York City is Thursday, June 26. The last day of school for Catholic school students is Friday, June 13. Oscar-winner George Clooney lost his cool big time after Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski commented on Clooneys famous op-ed about President Joe Biden. The Hollywood A-lister exploded at a Morning Joe producer last year after Brzezinski on the air suggested that Clooneys op-ed was influenced by former President Barack Obama, the New York Post reported. How the fk could you let her link me with Barack Obama saying he made me write the op-ed? Clooney shouted after he called the producer at lefty MSNBC, according to Uncharted: How Trump Beat Biden, Harris, and the Odds in the Wildest Campaign in History, a new book on the 2024 campaign by Chris Whipple. Clooneys op-ed, written in the wake of Bidens disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump last June, is widely seen as one of the reasons why Biden later withdrew from the race. But Clooney was apparently infuriated over Brzezinskis insinuation that Obama was actually behind the editorial. The producer denied involvement in Brzezinskis comments. Clooney, however, reportedly screamed, You fked me! Youre my friend. You should have stood up for me. Whipple wrote that the producer replied: George, this is not a fking movie. Theres no script. Its just not a movie where you go script page to script page. Fk you! Clooney reportedly screamed back. Whipple writes that the producer and Clooney cursed and insulted each other during a series of phone calls that lasted several hours. This is a morning talk show on a cable channel, the MSNBC producer reportedly said at one point. Nobody gives a fk if we say he should get out or if he should stay in. Nobody fking cares. Its skywriting. Its fking gone. As a result of a car explosion in the city of Dnipro on Friday morning, the injured official died, the police are considering three versions of the crime, including the activities of Russian special services, a criminal case has been opened under the article "terrorist act." "To investigate the crime, a joint investigative commission with all law enforcement agencies has been created, which is considering three main versions... A criminal case has been opened on this fact under Part 2 of Article 258 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (terrorist act)," the message posted on the National Police website says. The National Police clarify that the versions include a crime ordered by Russian special services to destabilize the situation in the country, hostile relations between the victim and the probable criminal, and the professional activities of the victim. "Unfortunately, a few hours after the explosion, the official died in hospital," the message says. According to the police, the scene of the crime has now been inspected, material evidence has been collected, and a range of investigative and operational measures are being carried out to clarify all the circumstances of the crime and solve it. As reported, an official and his wife were injured in a car explosion on Friday morning in the city of Dnipro. The report of the explosion was received by law enforcement agencies today at about 07:40. The driver of the car - a local official - and his wife were injured. The agency's source in law enforcement agencies reported that the head of the Left Bank city administration of the city of Dnipro, Yuriy Fedko, was injured. Support the Peninsulas only locally-owned newspaper. Subscribe! Subscribing annually brings you big savings. We also offer monthly and weekly subscriptions. Premium Subscription As low as $8.25 per week Premium Includes: -- Access to the Daily Journals e-Edition: a digital replica of our daily newspaper including crossword puzzles, games, comics, classifieds and ads. You can download a digital replica of the Daily Journal for offline reading. You can also clip & download articles or images from the e-edition to share with others The most recent 90 issues are available at any given time. -- Unlimited access to our award-winning online content -- Commenting access on all stories as a valued member of the DJ community -- NEW! Access to our online-only digital crossword puzzle. A new puzzle every day, seven days a week! up 300% (0.8c 3.2c) This weeks Bulls N Bears ASX Runner of the Week is Cybersecurity firm WhiteHawk Limited, which saw its share price skyrocket to a high of 3.2 cents on Wednesday up 300 per cent from a close of 0.8c last week. The companys share price went ballistic after it bagged a major spot as the core cyber partner in a massive US$920M (A$1474M) United States government contract, with industry leaders Knexus Research, Babel Street and Dun & Bradstreet. WhiteHawk says it will be the sole cyber solution partner to deliver AI-powered tools for managing cyber risks in federal supply chains during the 10-year deal, which could bring in substantial recurring revenue for the micro-cap company as task orders are continually released. The contract is backed by a 2025 White House executive order and will streamline government procurement, potentially opening up even more opportunities for WhiteHawk. The size of the contract, combined with WhiteHawks pivotal role, likely triggered investors to pile into the stock after its announcement on Tuesday morning. WhiteHawk experienced a massive $6M in volume on the week with its market cap finally settling at a little over $12M on Friday. WhiteHawk is delivering its AI-powered tools for supply chain cyber risk management for the US government amid a growing global emphasis on cybersecurity and technological innovation. The company might have the inside track to many more contracts having been tapped as a premium US government provider. OZAURUM RESOURCES LTD (ASX: OZM) Up 94% (6.7c 13c) OzAurum Resources took out second place on this weeks ASX Runners of the Week list after the gold juniors share price peaked up 94 per cent to finish at 13c. Well over $7M of the companys stock traded hands. The company unveiled reverse circulation discovery drill results from its Mulgabbie North gold project in Western Australia on the same day the gold price ripped to a fresh all-time high. The discovery at its Cross Fault prospect featured impressive thick hits, including 48 metres at 1.66 grams per tonne (g/t) gold from surface and 12m grading some 4.26g/t from 18m. OzAurum will waste no time starting a follow-up drill program, including diamond drill testing, as soon as next week. The companys short-term focus is to expand its 260,000-ounce gold resource across its project. This weeks drill program successfully confirmed the presence of high-grade gold mineralisation over a substantial 400m strike. OzAurum appears to have jagged a high-grade and sandstone-hosted discovery, with gold mineralisation and extensive quartz veining alongside pyrite and arsenopyrite mineralisation. Wide zones of sulphides were also intersected, indicating the potential for significant gold endowment, OzAurum says. Sandstones are a brittle host rock and are the hallmark of the large gold deposits being mined at the extremely profitably 4M-ounce Carosue Dam basin, just 2km from Mulgabbie North. The company believes its new cross fault target is on the Relief Shear some 2km south of the existing 260,000-ounce Mulgabbie North mineral resource along the same shear. Assays remain to be processed for a further seven reverse circulation holes drilled for 745m, leaving plenty of meat on the bone for shareholders chomping at the bit for gold assays of any kind, in an otherwise loveless stock market. ARGENT BIOPHARMA LTD (ASX: RGT) up 69% (16c 27c) Runners final podium finish goes to biotech developer Argent BioPharma Limited after the company revealed its flagship cannabinoid-based therapy CannEpil had been approved for prescription in Germany under a special access scheme. Argents share price shot up on Thursday touching 27c at one point, which was up 69 per cent from last weeks close of 16c per share. The price surged on just $110,000 of stock traded in a tightly held register, in which paper rarely changes hands. Argents flagship CannEpil therapy has a high-CBD, low-THC liquid formulation delivered orally to patients suffering from a form of drug-resistant epilepsy. CBD in cannabis is increasingly being considered to treat a range of medical conditions, while THC is the molecule responsible for its hallucinogenic effects. Argent says about 816,000 people in Germany are diagnosed with epilepsy annually and a substantial portion of those patients will have a drug-resistant form of the disease. It believes CannEpil will offer life-changing treatment for patients who have no current attractive alternative. By strengthening its presence in Germany - a key pharmaceutical hub Argent has penetrated a substantial barrier to entry to the high priority European market. With an increasing number of cannabinoid-based medicines gaining global acceptance, the breakthrough marks Argents first cannabis-based therapy to be recognised for its central nervous system applications. The company seems confident this feat wont be its last. Galan Lithiums recently completed evaporation ponds being filled at its Hombre Muerto West lithium brine project in Argentinas Lithium Triangle. GALAN LITHIUM LTD (ASX: GLN) up 45% (11c 16c) Lithium developer Galan Lithium gets a notable mention on this weeks ASX Runners list, having bucked the trend in a disastrous week for lithium thanks to its low-cost Argentinian lithium project in the world-class Lithium Triangle. The company sneakily turned down a US$150M (A$240M) cash offer from Chinas Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt Co and Frances Renault Group to acquire its Hombre Muerto West (HMW) and Candelas lithium brine projects in Argentina, labelling the proposal opportunistic and undervalued. The offer rejection was hidden within a secondary trading notice on Thursday morning, which saw the companys share price open unchanged. The market quickly cottoned on, with Galans share price charging up nearly 50 per cent to a high of 16c per share from a market cap of $92M the week before a high of $134M intraday. This level was well short of the proposed $240M cash takeover. The surge defied a broader market downturn. The unsolicited, conditional and non-binding proposal from battery materials giant Zhejiang Huayou and EV producer Renault was the second such unsolicited offer received by Galan in under a year. Last August, Galan also received an unsolicited, confidential, conditional, non-binding indicative proposal from Energy Exploration Technologies to acquire the Argentinian assets for US$100M in cash and scrip, which the company quickly batted away. Galan believes that completing offtake and financing arrangements for phase one of HMW will occur shortly, leading to a more certain and superior takeover outcome than the $240M offer that was just 2.6 times the companys prior market cap. Galans HMW and Candelas projects have a 9.5M-tonne lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) resource at a high-grade 841 milligrams per litre (mg/L) and the company is more than halfway towards phase one production. The project is just 100km south of Rio Tintos Rincon project, also within Argentinas prominent Lithium Triangle. Rincons non-JORC 5.8Mt LCE resource was acquired by the mining giant in 2022 for a little over $1 billion in a time of more buoyant lithium prices. Importantly, Galans Hombre Muerto salar features lithium grades double that of the Rincon project, which comes in at about 420mg/L. Galans decision to bat away takers for its low-cost lithium development seems a puzzling one, but management seems intent on securing the right price for its expansive project - perhaps at a time of stronger lithium prices or once it shortly secures an offtake partner and financing. Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: mattbirney@bullsnbears.com.au Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha once again emphasizes that, despite the lack of consensus among NATO member states regarding Kyivs membership in this organization, the Ukrainian side will never accept the possibility of any third country using its veto power on this decision. "There are fundamental things that the Ukrainian side will never accept. And one of these fundamental positions is the impossibility of any third country having a veto on our aspirations, on our intentions to become part of this or that union, this or that alliance, including NATO," he told Ukrainian journalists in Brussels on Friday after a meeting of the foreign ministers of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization member states, which also included a meeting of the Ukraine-NATO Council. Sybiha also said that during the meeting he informed his colleagues about the immutability of this position. Sybiha stated that at this stage there is no consensus among NATO member countries on this issue, but believes that this is not related to the position of "either Russia or a third country." "These are fundamental things for us. We continue to implement NATO standards in Ukraine, and we also prove this to our partners, our position that the most effective factor in ensuring not only Ukrainian security, but also transatlantic security, since Ukrainian security and transatlantic security are indivisible, is Ukraine's membership in NATO. This is supported by our Constitution, this is also supported by the will of our people," the Ukrainian minister emphasized. He also reported that as of today, the Ukrainian side has not yet received an invitation from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to participate in the upcoming NATO summit, which will take place in The Hague in June. Its the design war that has divided bankers, lawyers, celebrities, politicians, some senior members of the Hari Krishna and many architects. The 19-storey luxury Altair Apartments at Rushcutters Bay won architects Engelen Moore now Ian Moore Architects a grand slam of prestigious awards including the World Architecture Festivals best building in Australasia in 2002. Altair Apartments in Rushcutters Bay is the subject of a development dispute. Credit: Flavio Brancaleone Since then, Ian Moore became the buildings go-to architect, working on a range of projects to ensure the integrity of a building that Altairs website calls an architectural icon. That was until late last year when Moore says he was removed without notice by the developer NTG Investment Group from a proposal to build new apartments on the site of two retail lots on the southern forecourt. The parallel lives of Nina Oyama and Urvi Majumdar were perhaps always set to converge. Both preferred comedy over study, and fell short of academic expectations at their select-entry state schools Oyama at North Sydney Girls High School and Majumdar at The Mac.Robertson Girls High School in Melbourne. They share an appreciation for US high-school cringe comedies PEN15, Freaks and Geeks and Mindy Kalings Never Have I Ever. So when they were invited to work together on Majumdars autobiographical web series, Urvi Went To An All Girls School, chosen for the ABCs Fresh Blood Pilots program, it was as if fate had intervened. Urvi Went To An All Girls School creator Urvi Majumdar (right) in a scene from the show, which screens as part of the ABCs Fresh Blood series. Im into star signs, says Majumdar, during a break at her day job, relief-teaching at a primary school. Ninas got a triple Fire her Sun, Moon and Rising are all Fire signs. And Im all Earth. So were a good team Shes been an amazing mentor. Oyama, who appears in Utopia and Deadloch, co-wrote and directed the three-part series, which is set in 2010, around the time both women were in senior school, and follows year 11 student, Urvi, a misfit at the fictional Grogan Girls High. Urvi dreams of dating Hot Ryan (Josh Burton), from Grogan Boys, and becoming an actor. She faces pressure from her parents and overachieving younger sister (Isha Desai). Wild dingoes locked in an extinction vortex in western Victoria will be fitted with electronic collars and monitored under a contentious plan being developed by the Allan government despite the opposition of traditional owners. The plan to trap and collar dingoes has been ridiculed by dingo experts and conservationists, who derided it as hare-brained in a letter to government, and said the motivations for the proposal appeared to be political rather than scientific. The Victorian government has been working on plans to fit critically endangered dingoes in the states west with electronic collars. Credit: Chris Hopkins Collaring has been backed by landholders and the Victorian Farmers Federation, who say the number of dingo attacks on sheep on at least one property in the Mallee has doubled since dingoes in the Big Desert region were protected. Stuart Harradine is spirit officer for Barengi Gadjin Land Council, which represents the Wotjobaluk Nations, which hold native title in the region. Harradine said his peoples were deeply concerned about the plan. Amid a series of magnificent backdrops, we watch Light retracing her earliest memories, from the cloud forest in the Andes where she was born including the small, stone and mud house where her family once lived and the life-giving Amazon rainforest to the seaside city of Bahia de Caraquez and a visit to her fathers nature reserve, Cerro Seco, home to giant ceibo trees. The surf documentary Ceibo follows Australian world-class surfer and environmental activist Pacha Light on a personal journey of exploration and discovery as she reconnects with the country of her birth, Ecuador, following the sudden death of her father, Marcelo Luque, in 2021. His loss left her with many unanswered questions about his role in her life as she grew up, far away from him, in northern NSW and Queensland with her Australian mother, Anja. In a new documentary, Australian world-class surfer and environmental activist Pacha Light reconnects with Ecuador, the country of her birth. Credit: Erick Ramos Lights journey of self-discovery includes a broader exploration of womens rights, environmental activism and surfing by way of interviews with indigenous activists Muyu Flores and Elizabeth Swanson Andi, both fighting the destruction of the Amazon by mining companies, and Dominic Mimi Barona, Ecuadors only Olympic surfer, who is blazing a trail for female surfers. Their inspiring stories give me hope in activism, relationships, Indigenous wisdom and the strength of community, says Light. In connecting with a country her father never left, Light finds a new sense of self and feels her own love of competitive surfing reviving (she walked away from the sport in 2020). Shes joined on her journey by fellow Australian surfer Lucy Small and British filmmaker Maddie Meddings. In cinemas nationally from April 8. Pilar Paredes READ / The collectors A new book offers a rare glimpse into the homes of 26 of Australias most interesting art collectors. When COVID-19 locked down theatres and art galleries, Kym Elphinstone needed a project. She had spent the previous decade building her arts communications agency, Articulate, but suddenly, there were no shows to promote. Rather than twiddle her thumbs, she decided to write a book. The result is Collecting: Living with Art ($80), a glossy, coffee-table book in which 26 collectors discuss and showcase the art they simply had to have. The book features a roll-call of high-profile collectors, from Penelope Seidler, Gene Sherman and Amanda Love to art dealers Andrew Jensen and Emma Fox and artists Lottie Consalvo, James Drinkwater and Jonny Niesche. Of all the losses that youve experienced, what have been the most significant? Oh, there are so many. Losing my dad, losing my mum. My mother died on my 62nd birthday [in 2021] which is so like my mum; Ill never forget the date. But, most importantly, Im a twin and I havent really celebrated our birthday since my sister, Lois, was murdered in 1998. It felt weird doing it on my own. We were told, Lois has gone walkabout; youre overreacting. [Thirty-nine-year-old Lois went missing in Nimbin in northern NSW in July 1998; her remains were found in the nearby Whian Whian State Forest six months later. No one has ever been charged.] A terrible thing. After a period of time, you go, OK, I cant rely on the industry thats supposed to investigate and find out, so were just going to have to do it ourselves. Since the day she went, before I go to sleep at night, I think of her. First thing when I wake up, I see her. So she will always remain young. Loading Im so sorry, Rhoda. How has your sisters death changed the way you live your life? Lois gave me a gift: she trusted me to raise one of the most precious things Ill ever have. She had her youngest daughter, Emily, in 1994. Welfare wanted to take this child. So under the kinship system, I was given the baby to raise. Lois begged me, Please help me raise this girl. I cant, but I dont want her to go to another family. So it changed our world. Some days with Emily, Im like, Oh, my god, youre irresponsible just like my sister! But what a gift. POLITICS You were one of the key Aboriginal figures who pioneered welcome-to-Country ceremonies before major events. Lately, theres been a backlash, with some non-Aboriginal Australians asking, Why am I being welcomed to my own country? What would you want them to understand? Follow [Aboriginal] songlines. Traditionally, when you reached a border, youd call out to be invited onto that country. Thered be a response and youd be invited in. Its about respectfully knocking on the door and saying, Thank you for inviting us into your house. Australia prides itself on religious freedom. But you wont accept our welcome to Country? You dont accept that we, as Aboriginal people the first people of this country that you occupy also have a religion like any civil society? Well, honey, were not doing [welcomes to Country] for you: were doing it to continue the legacy of our forebears. A man has been charged three months after he allegedly disrupted an ABC reporters live cross with an offensive antisemitic outburst. Reporter Myles Houlbrook-Walk was delivering a report about Sydneys housing crisis outside NSW parliament on Macquarie Street about 6.15am on January 28. Myles Houlbrook-Walks live cross was interrupted by a mans alleged antisemitic outburst. Credit: ABC TV About halfway through his report, a man can be heard off-screen allegedly shouting offensive Nazi phrases. Houlbrook-Walk continued his report as the man yelled, with the reporters eyes darting off-camera before he quickly recovered and continued to deliver his live cross. Earlier this week I got a warning from my agent that the dataset Library Genesis had been hacked by Meta. Unfortunately I see many of your works listed, she warned me, from a roster of the plundered she had read, perhaps all of them, including translations. She urged me to record them on a list of the plundered being gathered by the good old Society of Authors, our chief defence for now. Within an hour of this New-Age and Lost-Old-Person Drama, I was sent a press report on equally baffling matters of medieval import. It was the sort of thing I used to read with a certain sense of wonder in my childhood. Illustration: Simon Letch Credit: It was reported that last month, an American couple, convinced that their toddler son had drowned, decided to pray to the late Australian cardinal George Pell for his intercession. The couple, Caitlin and Wes Robinson, had met Pell in November 2021. They had studied Pells prison journal and had him to their house for dinner while he was in the US for a book tour. But on Sunday, March 2 this year more than two years after Pells death they found the youngest of their eight children, Vincent, then 14 months old, unresponsive in a hot tub in their backyard in Phoenix, Arizona. He was not breathing, having been submerged for minutes in the tub. Vincent arrived at hospital with no pulse. After 52 minutes of resuscitation, he was placed on life support, but his mother and father did not expect he could survive. However, Vincent, to their amazement and that of doctors, was saved. And he has made a full recovery. Drug kingpin Tony Mokbel may be free for the first time in almost two decades but his liberty comes with strict caveats 31 of them to be exact. The bail conditions handed down by Victorias Court of Appeal on Friday will control most aspects of his life from forcing him to stay home at night to making him use a dumb phone a basic handset used only for calls and messages rather than a smartphone. Drug kingpin Tony Mokbel walked from custody for the first time in almost 20 years on Friday. Credit: Daniel Pockett If Mokbel breaches any of the conditions, his sister Gawy Saad could lose a $1 million surety, after his sister-in-law Renate Mokbel put up the same surety before he fled Australia for Greece while on bail years ago. He was arrested at a cafe in Athens in June 2007 the same month the now off-limits iPhone was released. Whelan didnt buy it. He knew Tony was doing what was best for Tony. Flash forward. After an agonising legal battle, it was finally revealed that one of the Purana taskforces secret informers was barrister Nicola Gobbo, who betrayed Mokbel to police. In 2017, the High Court found the police tactic was reprehensible. Instead of letting the legal process take its course, which would have allowed Mokbel to appeal on the basis the evidence that led him to plead guilty was tainted, we decided to have a judicial inquiry into the use of Gobbo as an informer. It ran two years, cost $200 million and didnt recommend charges. It found police should not have used Gobbo as an informer, which the High Court had already established. So we established a special examiner, a former High Court judge who recommended charges against some former police, but the Director of Public Prosecutions said there wasnt enough evidence and the special examiner quit in a huff. Did Mokbel then appeal? Of course not. We then called in an interstate judge to have another inquiry this time a royal commission. She found the police shouldnt have used Gobbo as an informer, as surprising as finding that the Loch Ness monster probably doesnt exist and the world is not flat. Loading Then we established new rules on how police should use informers, and guess what. You can use barristers after all. Meanwhile, Mokbel was still in prison while his legitimate grounds for appeal were stuck in legal quicksand that saw high-powered and highly paid lawyers say the same things the same way to different judges. It is estimated Mokbels drug enterprise, known as the Company, turned over $400 million. It is a fair bet the legal expenses, including the extradition from Greece, the private jet to bring him back, the Supreme and High Court battles and the multiple external inquiries, will have cost around the same. One of the reasons Mokbel was granted bail is his appeal decision may not be made until next year that is eight years after the High Court said using Gobbo as a secret informer was an abuse of process. What is an abuse of process has been a judicial process that has done nothing except pay the land tax on the clifftop holiday houses of top-end lawyers. The way forward is blindingly simple. Mokbel pleaded guilty to three sets of charges Orbital, Quills and Magnum. Was Gobbos involvement crucial to these operations? If so, the cases are compromised and should be thrown out. The yacht Edwena, which Mokbel bought as part of his plan to escape to Greece, after it was impounded by police. Orbital and Quills are as dead as Julius Caesar. That leaves Magnum, which looked into Mokbels drug trafficking after he jumped bail in 2006 until his arrest in 2007. Unless Gobbo was secretly working undercover in an Athens souvlaki shop, she had nothing to do with Magnum. The only way Magnum could be threatened is if the courts find Gobbos manicured fingers are all over the Greek extradition proceedings and decide he should not have been returned to Australia, which is, frankly, ridiculous. He jumped bail, bought the yacht Edwena for $340,000 and sailed to the other side of the world. In the Magnum case there was a secret informer, but it wasnt Gobbo. For many years deputy police commissioner Ross Guenther moonlighted as a professional musician, and a fellow musician was connected with the Mokbels. That musician became informer 3030 and managed to suck material from the Companys computer that proved a pattern of illicit drug production. Informer 3030 turned out to be a star. Magnum ended up getting bugged phones on all of Tonys drug mates and 10 were convicted. At one stage police learnt that Tony had about $500,000 stocked in a storage facility in Collingwood. When one of the Companys men collected it, the Purana taskforce put a marked police car right behind him. He was so spooked he drove through a red light and when pulled over, police found the cash wrapped in gift paper. When Mokbel was told of the shrinkage, he was remarkably calm, then ordered all their phones be binned and replaced. It was 3030 who had provided them, all bugged by Purana. (It was 3030 who received the million-dollar reward, not Gobbo.) Credit: Matt Golding During the time he was on the run, Mokbel oversaw production of 41 kilograms of speed and trousered $4 million, which made it the ultimate working holiday. Justice Whelan said Mokbel was sunk on Magnum through five separate and compelling strains of evidence, which included the computer records and phone taps. Whelan said: The telephone intercepts reveal two noteworthy matters in this regard. First, you conducted yourself as a manager. You delegated. You gave advice. You encouraged co-operation. You sought to maintain morale. Ultimately, you determined what was to be done, in particular about payments and the distribution of money. Second, only certain of the participants dealt directly with you. You gave instructions to them, and they carried them out themselves or passed them on to others. Those who did deal directly with you displayed respect for you, and loyalty to you. Loading They looked to you to solve the problems which arose. It was your capacity to manage and co-ordinate, and to command respect and loyalty, which enabled these criminal activities to succeed, for a time. Your offences and the Magnum telephone intercepts reveal to me that drug trafficking was your business. It was your area of expertise. It was your career. Things have not turned out as you planned, and no doubt you now regret that, but to describe such feelings of regret as remorse is, I think, misconceived. Mokbel was sentenced to 20 years over Magnum. The most logical action on appeal would be to quash Orbital and Quills, uphold Magnum and release Mokbel on time served. Then he is free and remains a convicted drug dealer. After a bail application heard on April Fools Day, Mokbel was released on Friday. The last time he was bailed he ended up getting bashed in Lygon Street by a Perth bikie and transported to hospital by the hitman Andrew Veniamin, who was later shot dead in a restaurant just up the road. When on Friday the court asked Mokbel to rise and make assurance he wouldnt do a runner, he assured the judges he would be a model bailee, then thanked them for their wise decision. That is the funny thing about Mokbel. For a drug dealer, hes not a bad bloke: polite, generous and a born dealmaker. He once tried to broker a peace deal with the Purana taskforce to stop the Underbelly war, claiming he would get certain gangland figures to plead guilty so everyone could get back to business. Ill get Con [his barrister Con Heliotis, QC] to talk to Paul [DPP Paul Coghlan, QC] to work out the details, he said. Loading I was in court the day Mokbel was acquitted of murder. Before the verdict he turned, smiled and gave me a little nod of recognition as if we had just been on a caravan holiday together. He later referred to me as the bald-headed alien, which is harsh but fair. His mates were less good-humoured, and as we descended in the court lift one spoke to the back of my neck: Someone should write a f---ing book about this. Reports of racism in Victorias schools are on the rise as the Education Department receives at least one call about racist behaviour every school day a 28 per cent increase in 12 months. More than 500 calls about discrimination have been made to the Education Department since 2023 via the Report Racism Hotline and the general inquiries line. Last year which had about 200 school days 288 complaints were lodged, up from 225 in 2023. Young people have reported discrimination from teachers as well as their schoolmates, but the data does not differentiate between the two kinds of calls. The Report Racism Hotline opened in 2020 to give parents and carers a way to raise concerns about racism if they felt dissatisfied with their schools response or were not comfortable speaking with their childs school. Rumaysa was a student last year who experienced racism while at both primary and secondary school. She says more needs to be done to combat racism in schools. Credit: Joe Armao The calls were usually about student bullying or dissatisfaction with the way a school handled an incident, or other allegations of discrimination. Rutte: Ukraine's path to NATO irreversible, but we never promise membership would be part of peace agreement NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirms the alliance's decision that Ukraine will be a member of the organization, but there was never a promise that membership would be part of a peace agreement. Rutte said this on Friday in Brussels at a press conference, answering journalists' questions about whether he could confirm that the Alliance still supports Ukrainian membership. "We decided in Washington that the path of Ukraine into NATO is irreversible. We are building the bridge by everything we are doing with Ukraine to get Ukraine as interoperable as possible with NATO. But it was never promised to Ukraine that NATO membership would be part of a peace agreement. I mean, that's also true," he said. The wheels of Kate Huletts community independent juggernaut are in danger of falling off with the revelation that she has just one week to sort out her dual passport woes before the close of nominations for the upcoming federal election. Hulett was born in Australia and inherited her British citizenship through her mother. Kate Hulett (right) and Emma Pegrum on the Piece of Kate podcast. But unless her British citizenship is officially revoked before the closing day of nominations for the election April 10 Hulett will be precluded by section 44 of the Australian constitution from running for the lower house seat of Fremantle. Hulett made the announcement that her bid to replicate her performance in almost unseating state Labor minister Simone McGurk in the federal sphere was in deep trouble on her recently launched podcast. Were just popping back in with one more political tidbit: that newly minted WA Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas says there was nothing sinister in his federal counterpart giving him a wide berth during his flying visit to WA this week. Peter Dutton visited the electorates of Pearce, Hasluck, Bullwinkel and Forrest this week in a 24-hour visit but did not meet with Zempilas who became state opposition leader late last month. Zempilas said they were both too busy. Loading Well, I was working on three new jobs. Im a new MP. Im the new leader of the Liberal Party. Im also the new leader of the opposition. Ive had onboarding to do, and Ive had this announcement to prepare for, and Peter Dutton has his own campaigning to do, Zempilas said. Theres nothing sinister in it. We will meet during the campaign but he respects that Im brand new in this job and have a lot of things to get on with and I also respect that a federal campaign runs its own race at the appropriate times. Well come together, but the appropriate time for me was not yesterday. Zempilas said he and Dutton had exchanged messages. Right, now were really closing the blog. Have a great weekend, WA. Employment and Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt said Peter Dutton was under a misapprehension that all public servants lived in Canberra and claimed proposed job cuts of 41,000 positions would affect service delivery. He made the comments after Dutton wound back his work-from-home edict for public servants again today, saying only public servants in Canberra would be subject to stricter rules. Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Watt said Australias 185,000 Commonwealth workers were decentralised, particularly in his home state of Queensland, a key election battleground that has been plagued by weeks of wild weather and natural disasters. People who just endured a crisis will be left waiting and the safety net millions count on could fail when its needed most, Watt said. There are 41,000 livelihoods that are at stake as a result of these cuts, but there are millions of Queenslanders whose livelihoods are at stake in terms of the kind of services that they receive from the federal public service. Watt said the size of the public service was about right and Labor did not intend to make changes. The Community and Public Sector Union said Duttons comments on flexible work had caused confusion and uncertainty as, until now, it was thought all workers would be affected by full-time office requirements. AAP Weeks later, I was sworn into parliament as the first independent and first woman to win the seat of Wentworth in its history. The government had lost its majority. When Julia Banks left the Liberal Party the very next day, those of us on the crossbench suddenly held the proverbial balance of power. I was asked repeatedly about this balance of power and what I intended to do with it. Credit: Matt Golding I reflected on this concept of power, and thought it was more about finding a balance between the policies of right and left, a centrist position that would support good ideas, vote against bad legislation and provide thoughtful and constructive input to improve proposed legislation. The power of balance. Thats what I called my memoir. As history will record, we were also able to draft and pass legislation (which became known as the Medevac legislation) that provided a humanitarian solution for refugees held in Australian-controlled indefinite offshore detention to receive necessary and urgent medical attention, mindful of protecting Australias national security. I am often perplexed and annoyed at the political journalists who skip over that minority government of the 45th parliament, yet it was a pivotal moment in Australian politics. It was an exemplar of what a sensible, centrist crossbench could achieve with the balance of power. That byelection win in 2018 also spurred other independent campaigns in urban electorates to have a go, with Zali Steggall winning in former prime minister Tony Abbotts seat of Warringah in 2019. By 2022, far more community campaigns had organised, resulting in 10 independents being elected, along with four from the Greens and one each from the micro-parties Centre Alliance (Rebekha Sharkie) and Katters Australian Party (Bob Katter). Phelps joins fellow crossbench MPs Cathy McGowan, Bob Katter, Andrew Wilkie, Rebekha Sharkie and Adam Bandt for a doorstop interview at Parliament House. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen The potential for power in the hands of an even larger crossbench could no longer be ignored by the major parties or the mainstream media. The potential for an expanded crossbench with the balance of power is something of a double-edged sword. Everything depends on who has the balance of power, what their policies are, which major party they will support to form government, what they expect in return and what influence they will exert. There are a number of possibilities. A majority Labor or Coalition government could still emerge, depending on how the campaign tracks, or either major party may be in a position to form minority government. The Greens could retain or lose the seats they gained at the last election. I would not be surprised if Adam Bandt was left on his lonesome in the House of Representatives again, given the partys disastrous performance over the past three years. They came across as caring very little about the issues important to Australians, with antics that made them look more like a bunch of radical left-wing university students. Labor has ruled out forming a government with Greens support. Loading The community independents will be pressed to say who they would support in a hung parliament. As independents, they will, unsurprisingly, make independent decisions based on the will of their electorates. It is likely some will wait until they see the lay of the land before they declare their position. This rankles with the major parties, which survive through predictability and party loyalty. It also rankles some voters who may demand that candidates show their hands before they commit their vote.Their electorates will have had the opportunity to get to know their independent candidates and their views and policies over the course of the campaign. The flow of preferences in those seats will also give those candidates, if they are elected, an insight into what their electorates would want them to do. Top former biosecurity officials have rejected claims by American farmers and the Trump administration that Australia uses strict biosecurity rules unfairly to help our farmers and block US beef imports, as the federal government readies a post-election plan to reverse the 10 per cent tariffs imposed on Australian goods. Under the plan being worked on by the Albanese government, Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong and Trade Minister Don Farrell, working with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, would push for the US tariffs to be removed in one go, rather than on a sector-by-sector basis as occurred with the winding back of Chinese tariffs on Australian goods. Cattle farmers have reacted angrily to US tariffs on Australian beef. Credit: Belinda Soole Albanese confirmed on Friday that access to Australias supplies of critical minerals would play a key role in securing a deal with the US to wind back the tariffs, while Coalition leader Peter Dutton also emphasised critical minerals and Australias close defence ties with the US as key to winding back the tariffs. US President Donald Trump announced this week that the US would impose global tariffs on all imports to the US, including a 10 per cent tax on Australian goods, which is the lowest rate for any country and has also been imposed on the UK, Brazil and Singapore. Residents of Melbournes public housing towers have lost their legal bid to halt demolition of their homes, and the state government will pursue the tenant leading the class action to pay its legal costs. The Supreme Court has dismissed a case that involved 479 households from three public housing towers in Flemington and North Melbourne the first three of the 44 towers slated for demolition under a plan announced in late 2023 by then premier Daniel Andrews. The view from one of North Melbournes public housing towers. Credit: Scott McNaughton Dozens of public housing tenants gathered to hear the verdict on Friday morning, and some vowed to stay in their homes despite the ruling and would resist relocation or eviction. The publicly owned sites will be razed, leased to private companies for 40 years and rebuilt with 1000 more rental units than are currently there but no traditional public housing will be rebuilt. Badly behaved bogans in Bintang singlets beware: Bali is clamping down on disrespectful tourists. The government is seeking to close loopholes in laws that allow recklessness to thrive among visitors as well as overhauling poor law enforcement of certain behaviours. Beach villa, Regent Bali, Canggu. The Indonesian island is looking to attract a different kind of tourist, and now the hotel industry is doing its bit to help. The Regent Bali Canggu has opened on Balis south-west coast, making it only the second internationally branded five-star in the increasingly popular enclave. The first was COMO Uma Canggu, which opened in the once-sleepy town in 2018. Washington: US President Donald Trump has given another lifeline to Chinese-owned social media application TikTok amid an escalating trade war with China that has sent markets plunging and sparked fears of a global recession and trade showdown. The popular app was briefly disabled in the US earlier this year after a deadline expired for owner ByteDance to divest its US operations to a non-Chinese owner or face a ban. Trump, who took office the day after, immediately issued an executive order extending the deadline for 75 days. President Trump has announced he will extend the TikTok deadline by another 75 days. Credit: AP As the new deadline approached on Friday (Saturday AEDT), he announced he would extend it by another 75 days. He said there was more work to do, but acknowledged the tariffs on China may complicate a potential deal, and said he did not want the app to go dark in the meantime. My administration has been working very hard on a deal to save TikTok, and we have made tremendous progress, Trump posted on his own Truth Social platform from his weekend home in Palm Beach, Florida. The Royal Navy has awarded the instructor badge, Het Uiltje, to three Curacaoan and one Aruban soldier. Three Curacao and one Aruban instructor received the brevet badge Het Uiltje today and are now qualified to train new recruits to become soldiers. They teach subjects such as Self-help and Help to comrades (Zelf Hulp Kameraden Hulp (ZHKH), Laws and legal knowledge, maps and compasses, and shooting. In addition, they can also give further training to professional soldiers. This award emphasizes the importance of well-trained instructors. They play a major role in training and guiding military personnel, and their efforts are of immense value to both the Caribbean region and the Netherlands. The cooperation between Caribbean and Dutch military personnel strengthens regional security and contributes to effective cooperation in the future. In addition, seven instructors, including these four, received the ECOD Assessor certificate, which officially authorizes them to assess Military personnel. These recognitions emphasize the important work of the instructors in training new military personnel for the Royal Navy. THE HAGUE:--- HE Governor Ajamu Baly of Sint Maarten visited the Netherlands from March 21 to March 29. During his visit, he met with the Commander-in-Chief of the Dutch armed forces, the Secretaries of State for Kingdom Relations and Justice and Security, the ministers of Defence, Climate and Green Growth, and Justice and Security, the Dutch Prime Minister, the presidents of the Committees for Kingdom Relations of the First and Second Chamber, the Minister Plenipotentiary for Sint Maarten, the president of the Dutch Supreme Court, the Central Statistics Bureau (CBS) of the Netherlands, the president of the Central Bank of the Netherlands DNB and engineering firm Royal Haskoning. He was also present for the official farewell ceremony for outgoing Sint Maarten, a member of the Council of State for the Kingdom, Mrs. Van der Sluis-Plantz. On Friday, the 28th of March, HE, the Governor, was present at the Caribbean Career Fair in the RAI in Amsterdam to support the efforts of the Sint Maarten authorities to attract talented professionals to Sint Maarten. During his visits with Dutch dignitaries, the Governor discussed a multitude of subjects of importance to our Country, varying from security threats originating in geopolitical changes to the housing problems of Sint Maarten students in the Netherlands to the challenges facing Sint Maarten with regard to a turnover to sustainable energy as well as the future staffing of the new Prison in Point Blanche, scheduled for opening in 2028. At the CBS, he discussed ways in which this organization could help strengthen Sint Maartens data collection; at DNB, the special fund the Bank introduced to underline its accountability in and for the slave trade of the Netherlands took center stage. HE Governor Baly looks back at an intensive but fruitful visit to the Netherlands. Photo: https://t.me/VadymFilashkin/7056 As of today, Russia has destroyed 214,000 civilian infrastructure facilities in Ukraine, in particular, 173,000 residential buildings, head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak said. "As of today, Russia has destroyed 214,000 civilian infrastructure facilities. Some 173,000 residential buildings, 4,000 schools, and thousands of healthcare facilities have been completely destroyed. Some 773 strikes have been made on our power plants alone since the beginning of the war. Some 9,000 utility facilities have been destroyed," Yermak said during his speech at the final stage of the All-Ukrainian essay writing competition on the topic: "The role of artificial intelligence in holding the Russian Federation accountable" on Friday. In addition, according to Yermak, the World Bank estimated the damage caused to Ukraine by the Russian aggressive war at $524 billion, but the amount could be much higher. "Ukraine is currently compiling a register of damage, where all objects affected by Russian aggression are entered. And here artificial intelligence can really help solve this problem," the Presidential Office head added. However, according to him, only a person can convince to restore justice, "what artificial intelligence cannot do, a diplomat can do." ~ Kingdom Government Demands Approved Budget by April 30 as Oversight Concerns Mount ~ Terrance Rey. PHILIPSBURG The Kingdom Council of Ministers in The Hague has issued an ultimatum to the government of St. Maarten, demanding that the country submit its long-delayed 2025 budget to the financial oversight board Cft by April 30. The decision, first reported by Dutch news outlet DossierKoninkrijksrelaties.nl, came after the Committee for Financial Supervision (Cft) formally warned that St. Maarten still has no approved budget in place for the current year. The Mercelina Cabinet has been notified it must deliver the parliament-approved 2025 budget to the Cft by the end of this month or face potential consequences. According to the report, the Kingdom Council of Ministers the Dutch-led body that oversees Kingdom affairs agreed on Friday to send a stern letter urging Prime Minister Luc Mercelinas government to act. Dutch State Secretary Szabo, in charge of Kingdom Relations, will write to St. Maartens government insisting that the 2025 budget be finalized and submitted without further delay. This extraordinary step was taken in response to a formal notification from the CFT that Sint Maartens 2025 budget has not been finalized, and there is no clear prospect of it being approved soon. A similar ultimatum was recently directed at Arubas government, which managed to comply just before its March 31 deadline. In that case, the outgoing Aruban administration rushed to pass its budget after pressure from the Hague a scenario now facing St. Maarten as well. St. Maartens budget impasse has been an ongoing concern. Although Parliament unanimously approved a 2025 budget in January, significant technical errors and mismatches were later discovered in the budget amendments. These sloppy mistakes including incorrect figures and missing details prevented the budget from being ratified and published into law. As a result, the country entered 2025 without an official financial framework in force. Government operations have since been running on the 2024 budget as a stopgap while officials scramble to correct the 2025 budget and even restart the legislative approval process. This unprecedented situation, which requires the entire budgeting process to start over, has caused delays in public programs and uncertainty for government finances. The intervention by the Kingdom Council of Ministers underscores the seriousness of the issue. Under the Kingdom Charter and a 2010 financial supervision agreement, St. Maarten is obligated to maintain balanced budgets and adhere to good financial governance standards, with the Cft monitoring compliance. By law, the annual budget should be approved and enacted before the start of the fiscal year, and prolonged delays are not only impractical but may violate St. Maartens own constitution and Kingdom financial regulations. The Cfts report to the Dutch government noted the lack of any reasonable term in sight for St. Maarten to finalize its 2025 budget. In line with Cfts recommendations, Dutch ministers are now urging St. Maarten to approve the 2025 budget as soon as possible and absolutely no later than April 30, 2025. The Hague has also asked for a concrete timeline to ensure the 2026 budget will be handled on time, hoping to prevent a repeat of this years fiasco. If St. Maarten fails to meet the April 30 deadline, more severe measures could follow. Dutch officials have not publicly detailed the consequences of non-compliance, but the term ultimatum signals that a formal instruction (aanwijzing) or intervention by the Kingdom government is possible. In past instances, the Kingdom Council has issued binding instructions to autonomous governments in Curacao, Aruba, or St. Maarten when financial management norms were breached. Observers note that Aruba, for example, has faced strict budgetary instructions from the Netherlands in recent months as part of broader concerns over fiscal discipline in the Dutch Caribbean. If St. Maarten ignores this April 30 cutoff, the Kingdom Council in The Hague could move to impose an instruction compelling compliance or even enact other oversight actions to safeguard the Kingdoms financial integrity. Such a step would be politically sensitive, as it touches on the autonomy of the St. Maarten government, but Dutch officials have emphasized the importance of sound finances for the whole Kingdom. Local reaction in St. Maarten has so far been muted from the governments side. Prime Minister Luc Mercelina and Finance Minister Marinka Gumbs have not yet issued public statements on the Dutch ultimatum. The government is expected to attempt to meet the deadline by finalizing the budget in the coming weeks, given the high stakes. In Parliament, opposition figures have been vocal about the delays seriousness. MP Ardwell Irion, a former finance minister now in the opposition, earlier lambasted the Mercelina government for operating outside the law by spending without an approved budget. He warned that this blatant disregard for due process is an unacceptable breach of the countrys governance framework. Irion and others in the opposition National Alliance faction have pressed the government to clarify how it plans to resolve the budget impasse and comply with both the constitution and the Cfts requirements. During recent bilateral talks, Dutch and St. Maarten officials have discussed the islands budgetary challenges and the need for stronger financial oversight. The Kingdom Councils ultimatum is being seen by many as a test of St. Maartens commitment to responsible self-governance. It also highlights the delicate balance in NetherlandsSt. Maarten relations: while St. Maarten is a semiautonomous country within the Kingdom, its financial solvency and good governance are matters of kingdom-wide concern. As the April 30 deadline approaches, all eyes in Philipsburg and The Hague will be on the Mercelina administrations next moves. Failure to deliver a finalized 2025 budget in time could usher in a new phase of Dutch intervention, whereas meeting the deadline may restore a measure of confidence in St. Maartens governance and help avert a deepening crisis in kingdom relations. Intel, TSMC reach preliminary chipmaking deal: report Washington, April 3 (AFP) Apr 03, 2025 Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) have reached a preliminary agreement to form a joint venture to operate Intel's chipmaking facilities, tech news outlet The Information reported on Thursday. The Trump administration reportedly initiated the talks between the two semiconductor giants in an effort to revitalize Intel, which has struggled with manufacturing setbacks in recent years. TSMC was set to take a 20 percent stake in the new company, The Information said. US President Donald Trump has previously accused Taiwan of "stealing" the US chip industry and has been pushing to bring advanced manufacturing back to American soil. The plan coincides with TSMC's recent announcement that it will invest at least $100 billion in the United States to build cutting-edge manufacturing facilities. The Information reported that despite the preliminary agreement, the proposed joint venture faces resistance from some Intel executives concerned that the deal could disrupt the development of Intel's own chipmaking technology and lead to widespread layoffs. Questions also remain about how the two companies would integrate their operations, given that they use different production equipment models and materials. Intel did not immediately respond to a request for comment. TSMC declined to comment. TSMC has long faced demands to move more of its production away from Taiwan, amid fears that supplies of the critical technology could be disrupted in any conflict with Beijing. The company pledged during former president Joe Biden's administration to invest more than $65 billion in three factories in Arizona, one of which began production in late 2024. Semiconductors have for now been spared from Trump's barrage of trade tariffs announced from the White House on Wednesday, but the US leader frequently pressures TSMC and other chip manufacturers over their lack of US production. arp/md How can the EU respond to Trump tariffs? Brussels, Belgium, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 The EU has said "everything is on the table" as it readies its response -- including possibly targeting US Big Tech and taxing more American goods -- to President Donald Trump's sweeping new tariffs should talks with Washington fail. The European Commission, in charge of the EU's trade policy, refuses to give any details on what its response to Trump's 20 percent tariffs starting April 9 could include. But France, Germany and Austria have suggested targeting the biggest digital companies, including Google and Facebook owner Meta. These are the options the 27-country European Union has been discussing: - Tariffs - When Trump hit steel and aluminium imports with a 25 percent tariff in March, the EU decided to take "an eye for an eye" approach. Since his extra levies would affect around $28 billion of the EU's exports, Brussels opted to target US goods that are worth the same amount from mid-April, including Harley Davidson motorbikes as well as agricultural products like soybeans and meat. Now the EU faces new tariffs of 20 percent announced by Trump this week, which has kickstarted another conversation inside the bloc about further retaliatory action. "We will react in areas where it hurts the United States," a senior EU official said. Officials have previously said the EU will target goods from politically important US states, including soybeans produced in Louisiana, the home of US Speaker Mike Johnson. "We love soybeans, but we can get them from Brazil," the official said. "We like Harley-Davidsons, but we also like MotoGuzzi. Or we can buy Yamaha. So, there are alternatives there and we are not hurting ourselves." - Tech taxes? - Although the commission has been coy about whether it has US Big Tech in its sights, France straight off the bat said the EU's targets could include American tech titans. French government spokeswoman Sophie Primas said the EU could "attack" online services, "which are not taxed today but could be". Economy Minister Robert Habeck echoed Primas, insisting "everything is on the table". The United States had a surplus of 109 billion euros ($120 billion) in services in 2023 with the European Union. US companies dominate in financial services including banks and card payment systems like Mastercard, and tech such as Amazon, Google, Meta and Microsoft. "If they're going to go after our goods surplus, then we'll look at the services surplus," an EU official said. Financial services could also be targeted, not just big tech, the official said. "We're currently discussing it, and in such cases, the response must be made public as soon as it's decided," French Finance Minister Eric Lombard said on Friday. "It's a signal to our American friends. But we're working on a package of responses that could go well beyond tariffs," he told France's BFMTV/RMC broadcaster. - Trade tools - An EU official refused to say what weapons Brussels would deploy against the United States but said the bloc is weighing whether to use the anti-coercion instrument. First adopted in 2023 but never used, the weapon punishes any country using economic threats to exert pressure on the EU. Initially created to counter any trade pressure from China, now it could help the EU with the United States. And with this tool, the commission can act without the support of all EU states. It would allow the EU to limit US companies' access to public procurement contracts in Europe, which France's Primas has already raised as a stick against Trump. Officials believe targeting US firms with EU rules and taxation would not risk higher prices for the continent's consumers. "We are prepared to implement firm, impactful but proportionate countermeasures," EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic said on Thursday. The EU has so far maintained a unified stance against Trump's tariffs. "Europe has everything it needs to make it through this storm. We are in this together," EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said. Finland's colossal bomb shelters a model for jittery Europe Helsinki, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 Swimming pools, playgrounds and amusement parks: Finland's underground facilities, which can double as bomb shelters, have emerged as an inspiring approach as Europe ramps up preparedness after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Finland shares a 1,340-kilometre (830-mile) border with Russia. Its network of civil defence shelters is an integral part of its preparedness strategy, which harks back to just before World War II. Blasted into Helsinki's granodiorite bedrock dozens of metres underground, people of all ages swim and splash in the pools or relax in saunas in the cavernous Itakeskus swimming hall. The complex is one of Finland's 50,500 civil defence shelters which have space for around 4.8 million of its 5.6 million population. Intended to accommodate up to 3,800 people, the pools can be emptied of water and turned into a bombproof shelter within 72 hours. "This is the world's biggest civil defence shelter facilitating a swimming hall," Teemu Raatikainen, who has been the head of maintenance for almost 30 years, proudly explained as he gave AFP a tour. Finland's security strategy based on long-term investments in both the military and preparedness -- including civil defence shelters -- has attracted international interest after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the deteriorated security situation across Europe. "We always have this multi-use -- peacetime use and wartime use -- of our shelters," Jarkko Hayrinen, a senior rescue officer at Finland's interior ministry explained, as he showed AFP another one of Helsinki's large bomb shelters. - Blast-proof tunnels - With space for 6,000 people, the Merihaka shelter in central Helsinki houses an underground playground, several ball courts and a gym. "The shelters are very well maintained because people are using them in normal times," Hayrinen said. The Finnish "cultural mindset" of involving all sectors of society in security has become something of a "trademark" for Finland after it joined the NATO military alliance in 2023, said Matti Pesu, a senior researcher at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs. "And the civil defence shelters are a real tangible symbol of how the authorities are preparing to protect citizens in emergency situations," he added. High-level guests such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Denmark's King Frederik X and Queen Mary have recently been given guided tours through the zigzagging blast-proof tunnels of the Merihaka shelter. - Long tradition - "The first act on building defence shelters was adopted already in 1939, two weeks before the Winter War started," Hayrinen said, referring to the Soviet Union's invasion of Finland which lasted more than a 100 days. "Finland was not prepared for defending civilians during wartime and it was a hard lesson for us," he added. The Nordic country now has bomb shelters to protect almost all its citizens, with Helsinki providing space for 900,000 persons -- enough to host all the capital's residents and thousands more. Designed to withstand explosions, building collapses, radiation and toxic substances, the largest public shelters in Finland have primarily been situated in populated areas. Buildings or housing complexes with a floor area exceeding 1,200 square metres are required by law to have a bomb shelter. Other countries with a similar wide access to bunkers are Switzerland, Sweden, Norway and Israel. "All of these countries are united by a tradition of neutrality or a strategically difficult position," Pesu noted. Finland, where military service is mandatory for all men and voluntary for women, can quickly mobilise some 280,000 soldiers and the total military reserve comprises some 900,000 people. On April 1, the country announced it will increase national defence spending to at least three percent of GDP by 2029 in response to the security threat posed by Russia. US National Security Agency chief fired: US media Washington, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 The head of secretive US intelligence body the National Security Agency (NSA) was fired Thursday, US media reported. The Washington Post cited US officials who said General Timothy Haugh was fired after little over a year in the job. The officials did not give a reason for Haugh's removal, The Post added. Haugh was also serving as head of the US Cyber Command, the Pentagon's cyber warfare body which conducts offensive and defensive cyber operations. His NSA deputy Wendy Noble was also fired and reassigned to another job at the Pentagon, The Post said. The NSA is the US government's largest and most secretive signals intelligence agency. The Pentagon did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment. Haugh, who was appointed in February 2024, previously held a string of high-profile government cybersecurity roles, including commander of the elite Cyber National Mission Force. Reacting to the news, Democratic Congressman Jim Himes said he was "deeply disturbed" by Haugh's sacking. "I have known General Haugh to be an honest and forthright leader who followed the law and put national security force," he said in a statement posted on X. "I fear those are precisely the qualities that could lead to his firing in this Administration." US President Donald Trump has led a major shake-up of the armed forces' leadership since taking office in January. Trump fired top US military officer General Charles "CQ" Brown in February, offering no explanation for Brown's dismissal less than two years into his four-year term as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. His administration is presiding over sweeping layoffs of federal workers and moves to dismantle government institutions just months into his second term. US Cyber Command's Deputy Commander William J. Hartman and NSA executive director Sheila Thomas have been named acting NSA chief and deputy, The Post reported. Russia arrests soldier for planning to blow up military dorm Moscow, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 Russia arrested a soldier on suspicion of planning to blow himself up on Ukrainian orders near a military cadet dorm in the Moscow region, the FSB security service said Friday. The FSB said it had arrested a 49-year-old soldier, whose name was not given. Moscow routinely arrests people accused of working for Kyiv during its more than three-year offensive in Ukraine. The FSB said in a statement it had "prevented a terrorist act planned by Ukrainian special services in a military unit of the Russian Defence Ministry". The suspect faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted on those charges. Russia regularly charges people who it says have collaborated with Ukraine with terror-related offences. An FSB video, dated Wednesday, showed officers chasing the suspect in a park and making a violent arrest afterwards. The agency also published photos of a purported stash with explosives. Russia's Investigative Committee published an interrogation of the man, in which he said a Ukrainian secret service officer told him to wrap himself up with explosives and detonate near his unit. He said a Ukrainian agent had promised his children would be evacuated to Western countries. Russia has unleashed repression not seen since the Soviet era during its Ukraine campaign and soldiers refusing to fight have faced prison terms. Kyiv rarely comments on alleged spy or sabotage activities inside Russia. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte says that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has clearly assured Washington of the alliance's commitment. "We have just concluded two very productive days of meetings, covering a wide range of issues. Allies heard a very clear message from Secretary Rubio about US commitment to NATO, and also a very clear expectation that Europe and Canada must take more responsibility for our shared security and continue to ramp up defence spending. The consensus from the discussions these two days is that as the world grows more dangerous, we need NATO more than ever. And we are united in our commitment to each other in this Alliance," Rutte said on Friday in Brussels at a press conference following a two-day meeting of foreign ministers of NATO member countries. "That commitment is not only principled based on common values and shared history. It is deeply practical. We face real threats to our security the most direct from Russia. But also from others, state and non-state. In the High North, from the South, on the Eastern flank, and in cyberspace. Whatever the challenges we face, we need to make sure that we have the forces and capabilities necessary to deter aggression. And defend ourselves should anyone make the mistake of attacking. So we will invest more. Much more. As so many Allies have already begun to do," he said. He noted that allies will also produce (weapons) "more, and more quickly." Rutte also said that during a meeting of the Ukraine-NATO Council, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha reported on the situation on the ground. "Allies assured him of their continued support for Ukraine in its fight today and to help build up its armed forces for the future. And we discussed the important talks that the US is leading with Ukraine as well as with Russia to try to bring the war to a just and lasting end. We support the push for peace," he said. "And Allies including through efforts spearheaded by France and the UK have shown that they are ready, willing and able to shoulder more responsibility in helping to secure a peace when the time comes. NATO itself continues to provide political and practical support for Ukraine. Through our command in Wiesbaden, our office in Ukraine, and more. And as announced on Wednesday, in the first three months of 2025, NATO Allies have pledged more than EUR 20 billion in security assistance for Ukraine," Rutte said. "We were joined by our Indo-Pacific partners Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea. The security of the Indo-Pacific and the Euro-Atlantic is more connected than ever before. The war against Ukraine is but one example of this as China, North Korea, and Iran continue to support Russias war machine. This poses risks to us all. But we are attentive to those risks. And determined to ensure we are equipped to address them. So we continue to strengthen our ties, including on defence industrial cooperation," the NATO Secretary General concluded. Kremlin says Iran 'nuclear problem' can only be solved diplomatically Moscow, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 The Kremlin said Friday that tensions around Iran's nuclear programme could only be solved "diplomatically" and called for "restraint," after US President Donald Trump threatened to bomb Iran if it develops nuclear weapons. Trump last week had said "there will be bombing" of Iran if it does not drop its efforts to develop nuclear weapons. "The problem of Iran's nuclear dossier can only be solved by political-diplomatic means," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in response to a question by AFP, adding that "all sides should show restraint and concentrate on diplomatic efforts". Trump wants Iran to negotiate a new nuclear deal after he pulled the US out of an agreement in 2018 that relieved sanctions on Tehran in return for curbing its nuclear programme. Russia and Iran are close allies, with Tehran one of the main backers of Moscow's Ukraine offensive. Moscow on Thursday had denounced Trump's threat as "illegal." "Using military-forceful methods towards Iran is illegal. Threats of strikes on nuclear energy infrastructure are unacceptable," foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said, adding that it could lead to a "global catastrophe." Trump says wants 'direct talks' with Iran on nukes deal Washington, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 US President Donald Trump said Thursday he wanted "direct talks" with Tehran on a nuclear deal, after he threatened to bomb Iran if it develops nuclear weapons. Trump has given Iran's leaders a two-month deadline to reach an agreement on the country's nuclear program, which has strained relations with Western nations for decades. Western countries including the United States have long accused Iran of pursuing a nuclear weapon, which Tehran has denied, insisting its enrichment activities were solely for peaceful purposes. "I think it's better if we have direct talks," he told reporters onboard the presidential plane Air Force One. "I think it goes faster and you understand the other side a lot better than if you go through intermediaries." Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said last week that Tehran would not engage in direct talks with Washington "until there is a change in the other side's approach towards the Islamic republic". Trump in his first term ripped up a 2015 nuclear deal negotiated by predecessor Barack Obama and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran. The deal, sealed between Tehran and world powers, had required Iran to limit its nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief. "They wanted to use intermediaries, I don't think that's necessarily true anymore," Trump said. "I think they're concerned, I think they feel vulnerable. I don't want them to feel that way," he added. "I think they want to meet." Trump said last month he had written to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to call for nuclear negotiations and warn of possible military action if Tehran refused. Khamenei responded by saying that US threats "will get them nowhere" and warned of reciprocal measures "if they do anything malign" against Iran. Trump last week said "there will be bombing" of Iran if it does not drop its efforts to develop nuclear weapons. Trump's outreach comes at a weak point for the Islamic republic after Israel decimated two of its allies -- Hamas, the Palestinian militants who attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, and Lebanon's Hezbollah. Germany says adding explosive drones to weapons arsenal Berlin, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 Germany said Friday it would buy explosive drones for the first time as Berlin boosts investments in its armed forces to counter the threat from Russia. The government had signed two contracts to purchase so-called loitering munitions, defence ministry spokesman Mitko Mueller said at a regular press conference. Western militaries have looked to the war in Ukraine, where drones have become a defining feature of the conflict, to draw lessons for their own armed forces. Both Russia and Ukraine have used drones for reconnaissance and both are also launching attacks with loitering munitions. These drones can hover over a battlefield until a target is identified. Equipped with explosive charges, they detonate when they enter into proximity to or impact their target. Germany was "doing a lot" to develop its drone capabilities, Mueller said. The ministry had ordered enough drones to "give them directly to troops for testing", he said, without naming the suppliers. Following initial tests, the army would make decisions over the wider deployment of the drones, which can be guided with the help of artificial intelligence. Asked whether the drones would operate autonomously, Mueller said for Germany it was "clear that people make the decision about the use of the weapons". "That will not change," he said. Doubts over US security guarantees under President Donald Trump are prompting NATO allies in Europe to plan greater defence spending. Germany's incoming government last month passed changes to the country's strict spending limits to clear the way for hundreds of billions of euros of new investments in defence and infrastructure. MSF says staff member killed in Gaza airstrike along with family Geneva, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 The Doctors Without Borders (MSF) medical charity said on Friday that another of its staff members had been killed in war-ravaged Gaza, killed in an airstrike along with family members. MSF said it was "appalled and saddened by the killing of our colleague Hussam Al Loulou by an airstrike on the morning of 1 April". "Our colleague Hussam was killed along with hundreds of others across the Gaza Strip since the resumption of attacks by Israeli forces on 18 March," MSF said. The 58-year-old watchman at MSF's urgent care unit in Khan Yunis was killed along with his wife and 28-year-old daughter in the "horrendous attack" southwest of Deir Al Balah in central Gaza, MSF said. He was the eleventh MSF worker killed in Gaza since the start of the war there began 18 months ago and the second since the collapse last month of a short-lived truce. Hundreds of aid workers have been killed during the war in Gaza, which erupted after Hamas's deadly attack inside Israel in October 2023. The health ministry in Gaza said 1,249 people have been killed in the Palestinian territory since Israel resumed intense bombing on March 18, bringing the overall death toll since the war began to 50,609. MSF hailed Loulou for his "selflessness, humility and genuine care for those around him", adding that he was survived by two sons. "We strongly condemn his killing and call yet again for the immediate restoration of the ceasefire and protection of civilians," the organisation said. "This bloodshed needs to end." NATO chief tells AFP Trump has not 'undercut' collective defence pledge Brussels, Belgium, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 NATO chief Mark Rutte insisted Friday that US President Donald Trump has not undermined the alliance's Article Five collective defence pledge and said an American conventional presence would stay in Europe. "Article Five, he has not undercut. He has committed to NATO, he has committed to Article Five," Rutte told AFP in an interview. Trump has rattled allies by threatening to only defend those he thinks are spending enough on defence as he pushes them to ramp up their military budgets. His administration has also raised the prospect that it could look to shift forces away from Europe to focus on threats elsewhere like China. "The agenda is not for the US to leave NATO or to leave Europe, the US is here. They will pivot more towards Asia, so that might, over time, mean that they have to rebalance," Rutte said. "But there is now and there will remain in Europe a nuclear and also a conventional presence of the United States." European countries have said that if Trump does plan to withdraw forces from the continent, he needs to coordinate with them to not leave gaps in the face of Russia. "I assume and I expect that will be done in the spirit of no surprises," Rutte said. The NATO head defended his own refusal to criticise the volatile US leader, insisting he saw "eye to eye" with Trump on efforts to bolster spending and bring the war in Ukraine to an end. "When it comes to the issues I'm focused on, and that is Ukraine, that is NATO territory, we are really on one page," he said. Rutte was speaking after a meeting of ally foreign ministers where US Secretary of State Marco Rubio demanded they agree on a "realistic path" to spending five percent of GDP on defence. That figure appears well out of reach for most allies and is even considerably above what the United States currently spends. Rutte said he would now launch a "content-driven process" studying the military requirements needed as the alliance looks to come up with a new spending target for a summit in The Hague in June. "I think you now need to get to a number, potentially, be it in hard billions or a percentage, but then also a pathway together," he said. - China 'threat' - Washington has sparked fears in Europe that it could be looking to draw closer to NATO's number one nemesis Russia as it has reached out to Moscow to end the war in Ukraine. Rutte insisted that Moscow remained the main threat for all NATO -- and not just Europe. "Yes, to the whole of the alliance, as we have agreed," he said. He said in addition that he viewed China as a "threat", a possibly controversial view inside the alliance which still refuses to label Beijing a direct menace. "If you ask me, personally, I would say there's also a threat. I know NATO language is a bit more careful," Rutte said. "But China, with the immense investments they are making in the military, more navy ships than the US has, a thousand nuclear warheads... Yeah, it's really ramping up." Russian missile strike kills 12 in Ukraine leader's home city Kyiv, Ukraine, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 A Russian ballistic missile strike on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's home city of Kryvyi Rig killed 12 people on Friday, including three children, authorities said. Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the city's military administration, said more than 50 people were wounded in the evening attack. "Twelve people were killed in Kryvyi Rig," regional governor Sergiy Lysak said on Telegram. He added later that this included "three children". "The number of wounded is constantly increasing. This information will come later. A car and garages are on fire," he said. Unverified video on social media taken from a distance showed a plume of smoke rising into the evening sky. Kryvyi Rig, in Ukraine's central Dnipropetrovsk region, is about 60 kilometres (37 miles) from the front line but has regularly been targeted by Russian drones and missiles. A Russian ballistic attack on the city on Wednesday killed at least four people and wounded more than a dozen others. The strikes come as US President Donald Trump's administration pushes for a speedy end to the more than three-year war, holding talks with both Russia and Ukraine. Moscow has rejected a joint US-Ukrainian proposal for an unconditional and full ceasefire, while Ukraine has accused Russia of dragging out talks with no intention of halting its offensive. Burkina junta critic arrested in growing crackdown: civil group Abidjan, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 Burkina Faso authorities arrested a member of a civil society group critical of the country's military rulers, the organisation said Friday, the latest of numerous detentions targeting the junta's critics. The organisation, the Patriotic Front, said in a statement that officials identifying themselves as intelligence officers detained its deputy secretary general Romuald Yaro on March 30 at his workplace in the capital Ouagadougou. Burkina Faso has seen numerous kidnappings of people viewed as critical of the military authorities since the junta's leader Captain Ibrahim Traore took power in a coup in 2022. The group said it did not know the grounds for the arrest or where Yaro had been detained since. His "arrest was carried out by individuals who introduced themselves as being on a mission for the ANR," Burkina Faso's national intelligence agency, the statement said. "The Patriotic Front reaffirms its disagreement with these types of arrests, outside of judicial procedures, which are equivalent to enforced disappearances." The Patriotic Front is made up of civil society organisations and political parties that are legally recognised in Burkina Faso. While arrests and kidnappings have been frequent since Traore took power, they have accelerated in recent weeks. The country has become caught in a spiral of violence blamed on jihadists that has spilt over from neighbouring Mali and Niger. On Wednesday, three Burkinabe journalists who had been arrested over criticism of the military government appeared in a video shared on pro-junta social media accounts. In the recording the three detained journalists, who appear to be inside a military barracks, said they were at the front line to "cover the reality" of the battle against jihadist attacks. Last week, the government dissolved the Burkina Journalists' Association (AJB), a day after police arrested its president, Guezouma Sanogo, and his deputy, Boukari Ouoba. The arrests came after Sanogo criticised "attacks on the freedom of expression and the press" in the west African country at an AJB congress. Earlier in March, political movement SENS said five of its members including a journalist had been abducted after the group denounced civilian massacres blamed on the army and allied militias. US defense chief to visit Panama next week: Pentagon Washington, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will visit Panama next week, the Pentagon said Friday, after President Donald Trump exerted significant pressure on the country to curb ties with Chinese interests. Hegseth will participate in the Central American Security Conference and will "meet with partner-nation senior civilian, military, and security leadership in a series of bilateral meetings," Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement. The talks will "drive ongoing efforts to strengthen our partnerships with Panama and other Central American nations toward our shared vision for a peaceful and secure Western Hemisphere," he said. Tensions between the United States and Panama spiraled this year over Trump's repeated threats to "take back" the Panama Canal, including by force if necessary. Panama has made several concessions to Trump, including putting pressure on a Hong Kong company that operated ports on the Panama Canal to pull out. The last US soldier left Panama on December 31, 1999 -- the day the United States, which built the Panama Canal, relinquished control of the crucial shipping route. WTO chief says deeply concerned over U.S. tariffs Xinhua) 09:41, April 04, 2025 GENEVA, April 3 (Xinhua) -- Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, expressed deep concern on Thursday over the decline in global trade and the potential for an escalating tariff war, sparked by U.S. tariff measures. Iweala said in a statement that the U.S. tariff measures will have "substantial implications for global trade and economic growth prospects." The WTO estimates that the new measures, coupled with those introduced since the beginning of the year, could lead to an overall contraction of around 1 percent in global merchandise trade volumes in 2025. This represents a drop of nearly four percentage points from previous projections. "The WTO Secretariat is closely monitoring and analyzing the measures announced by the United States on April 2, 2025," Iweala said, adding that "Many members have reached out to us and we are actively engaging with them in response to their questions about the potential impact on their economies and the global trading system." The director-general stressed that the vast majority of global trade still flows under the WTO's Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) terms, though the share has now shrunk to 74 percent from around 80 percent at the start of the year. Warning of the potential for significant trade diversion effects resulting from the recent trade measures, Iweala called on WTO members to prevent escalating trade tensions, engage constructively and seek cooperative solutions. On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new set of levies, imposing a 10 percent baseline tariff on all imports starting on April 5 and slapping individualized reciprocal higher rates on those trading partners with which the United States "has the largest trade deficits," which will kick in on April 9. (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Wu Chaolan) As China marks Qingming (Tomb Sweeping) Festival on Friday, a day for honoring one's ancestors, new digital tools and eco-friendly practices are reshaping how millions observe the ancient tradition. A person pays tribute to martyrs at a martyrs' cemetery in Jurong, east China's Jiangsu Province, April 3, 2025. People across the country attended various activities to pay tribute to martyrs ahead of the Qingming Festival, which falls on April 4 this year. (Photo by Zhong Xueman/Xinhua) An hour's drive to the north of downtown Beijing lies the town of Shisanling, which gets its name from 13 imperial mausoleums of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Today, its green valleys are home to public cemeteries where common people are buried. For the convenience of those who could not come to site to pay tribute to their ancestors, authorities of the town have launched a "cloud memorial" mini-program on the social media platform WeChat, enabling them to offer online tributes. Users can upload photos and videos of their loved ones, create personalized digital memorial albums, and even generate AI-powered avatars to preserve memories of their ancestors. "As Qingming arrives once again, I present this bunch of virtual flowers to you. Though free from any sweet scent, they carry with them my grief and longing," read one message posted on the mini-program. Chinese people hold a deep and enduring reverence for ancestral traditions. In 2008, the government designated Qingming Festival as a public holiday -- a decision that carried both cultural and practical significance. As waves of urbanization drew millions away from their hometowns to study or work, the holiday provided not only a moment to honor ancestors at family grave sites, but also an opportunity to return home and reunite with loved ones. However, not everyone can make the long journey home. At Shisanling, an innovative solution has been offered. The digital memorial program also supports "digital tombstones" - virtual profiles tied to physical graves via unique QR codes - providing convenient access to memorial services. More than 100,000 people have used the platform, with over 20,000 digital tombstones created. Many mourners have expressed their appreciation for the service, as they can now commemorate their ancestors without the need to undertake arduous journeys, said one cemetery worker. While the centuries-old Qingming custom of burning joss paper persists in China, an eco-conscious movement is reshaping ancestral remembrance. The Fushouyuan cemetery in Yinchuan, capital city of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, offers water-soluble stationery for mourners to write messages to the departed, reducing the environmental impact of such rituals. Funerals are of great importance in China, and the extravagance of one's funeral and tomb was once used to judge the filial piety of one's descendants. However, the concept of green burials, aiming at curbing extravagance and advocating eco-friendly burials, is gaining in popularity. Fushouyuan conducted a ceremony to bury six biodegradable urns beneath ceremonial lawns ahead of this year's Qingming. Since 2010, over 6,300 deceased individuals across Ningxia have opted for various forms of green burials. Shenyang, the capital city of Liaoning, China's northernmost coastal province, will cover the cost of up to 5,300 sea burials this year. Municipal authorities will also extend monetary incentives for tree pod burials, lawn interments and floral burials, offering more options for eco-friendly funerary solutions. "From incense smoke rising at grave sites to digital offerings in cloud memorials, China's ancestral rites are embracing the advancement of society and technology," said Qi Xin, a researcher with the Liaoning Academy of Social Sciences. "While the expressions of remembrance vary, what never fades is that timeless human thread -- cherishing the memories of our loved ones." US Secretary of State Marco Rubio assures that President Donald Trump will not enter into endless negotiations with Russia, which involves waiting and delaying tactics, and is convinced that in weeks it will be known whether the Russians are ready for peace or not. He said this to journalists in Brussels on Friday after participating in a meeting of foreign ministers of NATO member states. Rubio explained that they were working to promote peace. He stated that if there was a wait-and-see tactic, they would not be interested in it. He also mentioned that President Trump would not fall into the trap of endless negotiations. He added that they would soon know if Russia was serious about peace, and if so, that would be great. However, if not, they would have to reassess their position and what they would do about it. The Secretary of State emphasized that the US President wanted to end the war early in his administration. He explained that it was possible to end the war on terms that were acceptable to both sides, if both sides agreed. He added that they were in the process of finding those terms and would soon knowwithin weeks, not monthswhether Russia was ready for peace. If so, they could end the war. If not, they would need to push their offer, and that would be a process. The Secretary of State is convinced the decision should be made by Putin. He emphasized that the Ukrainians had shown their readiness to cease fire and create space for negotiations, and Russia and Putin would soonrather than in six monthshave to decide whether they are ready for peace. According to him, Washington is currently observing Russia's actions. He explained that they want to know if peace is possible and are watching if Russia is ready for peace. He added that it is not words but actions that will show whether Russia is serious about this. He further mentioned that they, again, want to know this soon and hope that Russia is ready. But as for the US and China, while its always possible that policymakers could soon come to the table, it looks like until then, a test of endurance is underway. Where to live Golden Visas: the four European countries where you can still get citizenship by buying property Four European countries still offering golden visas to property buyers There is no country in the world has been able to implement a veteran policy in a way that would prevent negative consequences, since it is impossible to meet all needs taking into account the specifics of veterans, National Guard veteran, Hero of Ukraine, Advisor to the Minister of Internal Affairs Dmytro Finashyn believes. "I cannot say that any country has won in terms of veteran affairs. The United States, which could, and did, 'pour' money into all this they really gave all the opportunities lost the veteran policy," Finashyn said in the second part of a video interview with Interfax-Ukraine, expressing his own opinion as a veteran. According to Finashyn, it is impossible to satisfy absolutely all the needs of people in this category and take everything into account. "The specifics of individuals returning from war are different... You go through an extremely difficult experience and you are not always ready to simply return to your previous life. You are not always ready to open up to this world, and you do not always perceive it as it is," he said. Finashyn added: "Veterans came back and saw, perhaps indifferent views toward the war, toward the things that happened. Is this easy to accept? No, it still hurts... It triggers you, because you were ready to give your life for these values, for these ideas, and people do not share them at all." According to the National Guard veteran, Ukraine will face cases "where individuals with mental disorders will commit crimes." "What we can do, we are already doing: we try to provide employment, provide assistance. Will that meet everyone's needs? No. We will face huge problems," Finashyn said. He said the government and society must make efforts to improve the lives of veterans, "or at least not make them worse." "Everyone needs to be more tolerant toward one another. In general, in everyday life. Especially towards veterans. As these people have gone through a terrible experience. Society must learn how to treat veterans: not to scare, not to shout unexpectedly, because a person may react completely differently. In war, you are constantly defending yourself, you must constantly be on guard," he said. In the meantime, as Finashyn noted, veterans themselves should make efforts to adapt to civilian life. Freedom of expression is in a state of crisis in the UK. What has happened to this country? The US State Department was right to be concerned by this case as it has serious implications for the entire Western world. My only thing I really care about right now is to get the care in place for him, make sure that we get his health back together slightly, at least, and then I can start to rebuild things, he said. Former Japan's Ambassador to Ukraine (October 2021-October 2024) Kuninori Matsuda joined DTEK's Advisory Council, DTEK CEO Maksym Timchenko has said. "Delighted to welcome new member Kuninori Matsuda Japan's Ambassador to Ukraine until last year who will support our efforts to engage Japan's investor community as we work to build a new energy system for Ukraine," he wrote on the social network X on Friday. Timchenko also reported on a recent meeting of the Council, at which its members discussed, in particular, important issues of Ukraine's European integration and the development of its energy sector. "Many thanks to DTEK's Advisory Council for their insights this week as they help us navigate an increasingly complex world Council sessions are an invaluable chance to stand back and see the bigger picture," the CEO of DTEK said. He said that former Slovak Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajcak the EU's Chief Negotiator for the UkraineEuropean Union Association Agreement from 2010 to 2012 offered a vision of deepening engagement with the European Union. Timchenko said that they heard from former WTO Director General Pascal Lamy on the impact of global trade tensions, Energy Transition Forum chair Miriam Maes on boosting energy connectivity between Ukraine and the rest of Europe, Swedish-American economist and diplomat Anders Aslund on the macro-economic backdrop to war and the path to a strong recovery, Ambassador Raffaele Trombetta on plans for the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC 2025) in Rome this July, and former EY Global Managing Partner Victoria Cochrane on driving our governance, transparency and our anti-corruption agenda. "As DTEK marks its 20th anniversary this year, these perspectives are helping us rethink the future of energy for Ukraine and the wider continent," the CEO said. Nova Poshta raises rates by up to 10% in several European countries CEO of Nova Post Europe Nova Poshta, Ukraine's leading express delivery company, has adjusted its international delivery pricing, including a rate increase of up to 10% in several European countries this March, according to Oleksandr Lysovets, CEO of Nova Post Europe. "In December of last year, we optimized our international shipping rates," Lysovets said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine. "First, we removed volumetric weight calculations for parcels up to 30 kg. That means customers now pay solely for the actual weight of the package. Second, we introduced a new weight tier system, adding pricing for shipments weighing 0.1 kg, 0.25 kg, and 0.5 kg. This combination no volumetric weight and finer weight gradations helps our customers save money." "As for rate changes in March, we applied moderate increases within 10% of the current pricing in a number of European countries. However, for example, there are no anticipated delivery rate hikes in Moldova," he added. The number of arrivals recorded in tourist accommodation structures (including apartments and rental rooms) in the first two months of 2025 reached 1.6 million people, a 3% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to data the National Institute of Statistics (INS) published on Friday. Of the total number of arrivals, during the period of January 1 - February 28, 2025, arrivals of Romanian tourists in accommodation structures represented 83.9%, while the arrivals of foreign tourists accounted for 16.1%. Of the total number of overnight stays, in the first two months of this year, Romanian tourists' overnight stays in accommodation structures represented 81.2%, while foreign tourists' overnight stays represented 18.8%.Additionally, INS data shows that arrivals recorded in tourist accommodation structures (including apartments and rental rooms) in February 2025 totaled 817,600 people, a 3.5% decrease compared to February 2024.Of the total number of arrivals, in February 2025, Romanian tourist arrivals in accommodation structures represented 83.6%, while foreign tourist arrivals accounted for 16.4%.Overnight stays recorded in tourist accommodation structures (including apartments and rental rooms) in February totaled 1.575 million, a 3.4% decrease compared to February 2024.Of the total number of overnight stays, in February 2025, overnight stays by Romanian tourists in accommodation structures represented 81%, while foreign tourists' overnight stays accounted for 19%.The average length of stay in February 2025 was 1.9 days for Romanian tourists and 2.2 days for foreign tourists. The net occupancy rate of accommodation places in February 2025 accounted for 24.7% across all accommodation structures (including apartments and rental rooms), a decrease of 0.5 percentage points compared to February 2024. Director of the Moldova II Vrancea Hail Control Unit Ionut Lucian Lazar says that in Romania there is a special cloud seeding plane to stimulate precipitation, but it is not used because the services should be officially requested by the Ministry of Agriculture. The aircraft purchased for approximately five million euros from the United States by a Romanian company under the umbrella of the Agriculture Ministry is fully equipped and authorized. "We have all the approvals and authorizations, we are licensed as an air operator. The plane is ready for cloud seeding flights, but the activity is carried out only at the request of the National Anti-Hail and Precipitation Increase Authority, a structure under the authority of the Agriculture Ministry. So far, there has been no concrete request, therefore we cannot act," Ionut Lazar told AGERPRES. The aircraft was purchased to reduce Romania's reliance on other countries, after experimental precipitation stimulation programs were carried out in the past with partners from Bulgaria and Greece. The technology allows for a 15-20% increase in the amount of precipitation from a cloud, and the effect is almost instantaneous. In addition to this plane, the company has also developed projects for the installation of automatic terrestrial precipitation generators in mountainous areas, to stimulate snowfall in the cold season. Attempts are made to obtain funding through European programs for this project, proposed for Vrancea County. "If we succeed in installing precipitation generators along the entire mountain range in Romania, we can significantly contribute to restoring water reserves through controlled rain and snowfall. It would be beneficial for both agriculture and tourism. We are proud that the terrestrial generators are produced by our company, with our own specialists, and for this technology we have also filed a patent application with the State Office for Inventions and Trademarks," said Lazar. Despite the proven potential, Romania still does not have an active program for stimulating precipitation through airborne technology, although this is available to the authorities. "The ball is in the ministry's court," concluded Lazar. The hail control season should begin on April 15, with the system protecting over 10,000 hectares of vineyards, orchards and vegetable crops in Vrancea County. Photo: https://t.me/dsns_telegram The number of children killed as a result of a Russian missile strike on the city of Kryvy Rih, Dnipropetrovsk region, has reached six, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. "As of now, 14 people are known to have died, including six children. My condolences to their families and loved ones. The rescue operation is ongoing. At least five houses have been damaged," Zelenskyy said on Telegram on Friday evening. According to him, the Russian missile hit directly on the city street, "in an area with residential buildings." "Preliminarily, this is a ballistic strike," the president said. Zelenskyy said Russia does not want a ceasefire. "We see it. The whole world sees it. Every missile, every strike drone proves that Russia only wants war. And only on the world's pressure on Russia, on all efforts to strengthen Ukraine, our air defense, our forces only on this depends when the war will end. The United States, Europe, everyone else in the world have sufficient capacity to force Russia to abandon terror and war. And this must be ensured: peace is needed," the head of state said. The Caribbean markets are a region with significant potential for Romanian entrepreneurs active in tourism, infrastructure investment, food industry and agricultural processing, fisheries and aquaculture, according to the president of the Romanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIR), Mihai Daraban. According to a press release sent to AGERPRES on Thursday, CCIR hosted on April 3 a high-level meeting between its president, Mihai Daraban, and the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, who is on an official visit to Romania. The CCIR president emphasized that "today's meeting opens new opportunities for the Romanian business environment". Interim President Ilie Bolojan met on Thursday at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace with a delegation of the American Chamber of Commerce in Romania (AmCham), together with the Ambassador of the United States of America in Romania and AmCham Honorary President Kathleen Kavalec. According to the Presidential Administration, on the occasion of the meeting, the interim president, representatives of AmCham Romania and the US Embassy discussed the development of economic relations between Romania and the United States of America. "I would like to thank you for what you are doing in Romania, for the investments, for the jobs that have been created, because they are not just simple investments, they are things that mean confidence in Romania, they mean development, they mean taxes to the state budget, and they mean economic cooperation," Ilie Bolojan conveyed at the meeting."This is a sign of respect for what you are doing, for the investments you have made in Romania, for all the partners and for those who work in the companies," said interim president Ilie Bolojan. Dozens of Bucharest residents donated blood at the event organized on Friday by the Bucharest City Hall, in partnership with the Bucharest Blood Transfusion Center. Donating blood only takes a few minutes, but it can mean a chance at life for those in critical situations, according to a press release sent by the Bucharest City Hall. The need for blood is "constant" in hospitals in Bucharest and around the country, and everyone's involvement matters, the quoted source mentions. "I thank everyone who came today to donate blood - their gesture makes a real difference for patients who need it most. Such initiatives remind us how important solidarity and care for others are. We will continue to support blood donation actions and encourage community involvement in supporting those in need," said the mayor of the capital, Nicusor Dan. The city hall reaffirms its commitment to supporting campaigns of this type. Healthy citizens who meet the conditions are urged to get involved, blood donation being "one of the simplest and most valuable forms of help" they can offer. "It is impressive to see how many Bucharest residents responded to our call to save lives. Through this simple but essential gesture, our community shows that empathy and solidarity are values that we truly value. I want to thank everyone who donated today - you are the anonymous heroes who make a difference in the lives of those in suffering," said the public administrator, Lucian Judele. Minister of Education and Research Daniel David met during his visit to the US with representatives of the Romanian United Foundation, a Chicago-based organization of the Romanian diaspora that is an active presence in over 50 countries and 280 cities. "Following recent discussions and meetings with representatives of the Romanian United Foundation (...) we are looking at the possibility of a partnership to support projects in the fields of education, research and innovation, with an impact both in Romania and in the diaspora. This initiative will be designed in complementarity with the programs already carried out by the Department for Romanians Everywhere and other institutions involved, so that the added value is truly cumulative," the minister wrote on Facebook on Friday. One of the projects proposed is a large-scale initiative dedicated to connecting Romanian researchers and professionals overseas with institutions and companies in Romania, as well as programs for youth aimed at strengthening cultural and linguistic ties through educational experiences carried out in the country. Minister David also visited a Romanian church in North Carolina. "If in Washington I wanted to see schools where children of diaspora Romanians study, in North Carolina I visited an Orthodox mission of a Romanian diaspora community in the Durham area. (...) Again, we discussed how we can help the Romanian community here in terms of education - for instance, as I learned that the parish priest's wife wants to develop non-formal educational activities around the church, we explored whether/how the Edulib online library would be useful to Romanian children and we thus encouraged them to access the support offered by the Department for Romanians Everywhere," Daniel David wrote. He offered the church two anthology volumes after publications from the 18th century which present information on the establishment of the first institution in the country carrying the name 'University' (1725) and on the first documented relevant doctor's degree on the territory of current Romania (1715). Romania's Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu, met on Friday, on the sidelines of a meeting of the foreign ministers of the NATO member states in Brussels, Belgium, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. "A good exchange of views between Minister Hurezeanu and Secretary of State Rubio. Ready to work together to advance our Strategic Partnership to the benefit of our nations," Hurezeanu said in a social media post. "Romania and Norway have a solid cooperation in the field of defence. Our countries are determined to ensure security from the Arctic to the Black Sea," Hurezeanu added in his post. Interim President Ilie Bolojan on Friday sent a message on 76 years since the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), saying that Romania stays firmly committed to the values and principles that underpin the Alliance. "Today, we mark 76 years since the founding of NATO, the strongest political-military alliance in history. Romania remains firmly committed to the values and principles that underpin the Alliance: unity, solidarity, and collective defense," Bolojan says in his message on X. Acting president Ilie Bolojan on Thursday welcomed at the Cotroceni Palace soprano Angela Gheorghiu, one of Romania's most appreciated voices internationally, the Presidential Administration informs. According to a post on Facebook by the Presidential Administration, the meeting was an opportunity to recognize her contribution to promoting Romania's image in the world and to thank her for the joy she brings to music lovers everywhere As of 7 April 2025, the National Bank of Romania will put into circulation, for numismatic purposes, a silver coin to mark 175 years since the birth of Ioan Andreescu, the Central Bank informs in a press release. The obverse of the coin depicts a graphic composition featuring a painting palette, the inscription 'ROMANIA' in an arc, the face value '10 LEI', the year of issue '2025' and the coat of arms of Romania. The silver coins are housed in transparent plastic capsules and are accompanied by booklets featuring a presentation of the numismatic issue and certificates of authenticity in Romanian, English and French. The certificates of authenticity bear the signatures of the Governor and the Chief Cashier of the National Bank of Romania. The Mayor of the Capital, Nicusor Dan, said on Thursday evening that Bucharest's budget for 2025, approved by the General Council, is "minimal", providing "very little money" for investments. "It is a minimal budget, which ensures the functioning of services and which has very little money for investments. It is an emergency budget, which ensures the functioning of services and which does not leave too much money for investments. (...) We will continue district heating, because there we have European money plus the loan that we signed with the EIB, on the European funds side. We have money from the Ministry of Development, on the other projects. So, district heating will continue. We are waiting for the release of the guide for the Regional Operational Program, so that we can build the new trams and tram lines for which we already have the contracts signed. We have a prior agreement with the EIB and immediately after that we will also go out on the market to borrow. These are the relevant investments that we will make in 2025", said Nicusor Dan, in a statement given to the press at the PMB headquarters. "It's about a quarter of the loan that Mayor Videanu made in 2005. In the meantime, we had the approval of the CAIL, so there is some definite money that we will have. And then there were 555 million RON that we were able to put as expenses in the local budget," said the mayor. Over 600 inventions, research projects and innovative applications from various fields will be displayed between May 8-10 at EUROINVENT - European Exhibition of Creativity and Innovation, one of the most highly regarded events in Europe by inventors, researchers and innovators. In its seventeenth edition, EUROINVENT will bring hundreds of inventors, researchers, professors and entrepreneurs from over 30 countries to the Palace of Culture in Iasi, being the most important event in South-Eastern Europe dedicated to invention, applied research and knowledge transfer. "We are delighted to welcome hundreds of participants from dozens of countries this year, who will present top technologies, inventions and innovations. Thanks to them, Iasi becomes a vibrant centre of cooperation, providing researchers with a platform to present their concepts, form alliances and receive recognition for their contributions to science on a global scale. Starting from the idea that innovation is the engine for a prosperous and peaceful future, EUROINVENT wants to inspire change, promote sustainability and promote global progress by encouraging the creation of new solutions," according to Chairman of the Romanian Inventors' Forum Andrei Victor Sandu. He said that this year's edition will bring together over 600 inventions, research projects and innovative applications from engineering, medicine, agriculture, environment, applied arts, education and many others. "Conceived as a festival of creativity, the event consists of, in addition to an exhibition of inventions and research, a conference on materials engineering, a book fair and a fine arts fair. That is why we invite scientists, business people, various organisations and enterprises to participate in this complex event. The event is also intended to be a platform through which we can all share our own vision with the world, regardless of the field: the creation of new materials, the transformation of healthcare, new green energy solutions or the latest advances in artificial intelligence and digital technologies", said inventor Andrei Victor Sandu, a corresponding member of the Romanian Academy of Scientists. EUROINVENT is organised by the Romanian Inventors' Forum, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, Europe Direct Iasi (host structure: Association for Ecology and Sustainable Development), Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Gr. T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi, National Institute of Research and Development for Environmental Protection Bucharest, in partnership with numerous international organisations. Work on contingent as part of security guarantees carried out not only with UK, France, to continue for another month Zelenskyy Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/ Work on the military contingent as part of security guarantees for Ukraine will continue for no more than a month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. "Since the beginning of work on the idea of security guarantees... I will answer about the contingent, we have held a number of meetings for two months. Today we have been working on this for two months, the teams are working... I think we need another month or so, and we believe that no longer. We will be ready with a full understanding of this infrastructure," Zelenskyy said during a conversation with journalists on Friday evening. According to him, "presence on the ground, in the sky and at sea, as well as air defense, and some other delicate things are being discussed." Zelenskyy added that the process of creating a coalition includes not only Ukraine, France and the UK: "Many other countries - I don't want to say the number of this coalition yet - it will be a coalition." "I think that we will meet every week, not at my level, but at the level of our military, where this is being discussed. We already have a lot of understanding from our partners about what Ukraine needs, where there are sensitive geographical moments, where we would like to have support. And it is important that today I discussed strategic issues, not only the issue of quantity, but also the issue of the mandate of this infrastructure," the head of state said. According to Zelenskyy, the commanders of the French and British headquarters "will prove their positions to their leaders, the leaders of their countries, as well as other headquarters of other countries, and then we will meet again." Romania's foreign policy is somewhat in an impasse due to the provisional character of the current situation, the ruling coalition's candidate for president Crin Antonescu declared on Friday in a press conference held in Resita. He voiced his belief that as far as the US decisions are concerned, the EU must deal with them in solidarity, without "getting into panic." "We are going through a very complicated period, we must be united, we must be strong, we must be coherent, we must know how to defend our interests. (...) At this moment, Romania's foreign policy is somewhat in an impasse, which is not caused by the government or the acting president, but by the fact that we are in a provisional situation. We are in a transitional state, in the eyes of our partners our country does not yet have the guarantee of stability, Romania is waiting, we are waiting and so are our partners. Yet this will change, I have no doubt, after the May 4 and 18 elections," Antonescu declared. He stressed that he advocates for Romania to steadfastly stick to its current alliances, to the structures it is part of - the European Union, NATO, the strategic partnership with the United States, appreciating at the same time that all these structures "need either a reevaluation or an update." "In this sense, the first things I believe should be on the future president's agenda are the fully functional, complete restoration of communication and relations with the United States, clarification within the bilateral relationship, primarily as far as security aspects are concerned, with what will happen at the NATO military bases with American personnel, with our joint projects, with how the American strategic partner sees the evolution of NATO's eastern flank and the evolution in general of this part of the world," the former Liberal leader explained. Antonescu also spoke about the European Union, which "has some answers to give to the questions day-to-day history poses", in which context he referred to the tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump. "I, personally, believe that the European Union must make every effort to maintain a fundamental relationship for the Western world, with the United States. Unfortunately, we see that every day new obstacles or new themes emerge that complicate the situation, such as, for example, President Trump's decisions. I believe that we must not panic, we must stand in solidarity all across the European Union and find the best solutions together with the new American administration," Antonescu emphasized. He also stressed the particular importance of the NATO summit that will take place in June in The Hague. "It is very important to discuss - because the United States is the leader of this organization - NATO's agenda that is more important than ever from my point of view. The Russian-American negotiations which are currently underway and are not progressing as quickly and happily as some would have imagined will produce consequences or must be put in the same context with what we will have to decide at the next NATO summit," the coalition candidate pointed out. Answering a question, he said that "the reality we start from in the idea of supplementing defense budgets is not one to be happy about", but if we end up allocating this money, "we should get a benefit, use our capabilities", especially since there is also "a tradition in this sense." Social Democrat leader and Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, attending on Friday an election rally called on both the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the National Liberal Party (PNL) to put aside their pride and doctrine clashes, because Romania is facing economic, social, global and security challenges. "We succeeded - myself and Mr. Ilie Bolojan, as well as head of the Hungarian Democratic Union of Romania (UDMR) Kelemen Hunor, and national minorities leader Mr. Pambuccian - to keep the coalition united after an electoral campaign and we pulled a unique performance because this time we all managed to keep our promise," he said, noting that the times are over when doctrine talk was still a thing. "The challenges we have now, both economic, social, global, security, trade wars - we hadn't lived through this yet - there is no time for whims. So, dear PSD and PNL members, I tell you as straightforward as possible: 'Stop with the nonsense! Stop with the philosophizing! Stop with tossing around opinions, because we are in for trouble," the prime minister declared in Resita. "For three months in the election campaign all we did was to swear at each other, after three years of construction, after three years in which we managed to navigate Romania's most complicated moments together - economic, social and security crises. And now we sit with our heads down, because we no longer swear at each other and let others hurl criticism at us, some guys who did nothing or who, at the very best, only screamed their heads off. Look at the Parliament! Look at who took your seats in Parliament, because we didn't have the brains to set out pride aside. It's time to wake up. We have an informal president of this coalition - Crin Antonescu - but this is just the beginning," the prime minister stressed, stating that he wants is "a normal president for Romania, a president who does not make a political difference from that position, a president who represents all Romanians, regardless of whether they voted for him or not." "Don't we really realize that now is the time to defend all our work of 35 years after the Revolution? After all our European path, all our security guarantees ? All of Europe was looking at us with pride after we jointly sent 50% of the MEPs to Parliament. (...) It's time to understand the real stakes and leave aside sterile speculation that infests this electoral campaign," Ciolacu urged. Ideologies - he also said - are defended through democracy, ideologies are put into practice through public policies. "Ideologies of a respectful coalition take into account all parties, so as to actually meet all of the Romanians' demands. Yes, UDMR is an example. How UDMR reacts, how UDMR gets together before each election, that's how I would like Romanians in the country and the diaspora to come together. Let the Romanians overseas vote for whoever they want, how they want in the three voting days, there is no problem, but when it comes about Romania, let's all talk the same lingo," the prime minister said. Romania's attractiveness compared to similar locations has reached its lowest level in the last six years, with more than half of respondents considering Romania less attractive than similar locations in Europe or other countries (more than double the 24% in the previous edition), according to the latest Business Sentiment Index (BSI) report, conducted by the Foreign Investors Council (FIC). "Romania is uncompetitive in terms of transparency and consistency of policy application (88%), regulatory burden (86%), bureaucracy (78%), tax burden (61%) and infrastructure (47%). The availability of an adequate workforce is the only area still considered competitive (60%). Capital investments planned by FIC companies for 2025 are lower than in the autumn edition, with only 35% of respondents planning more investments for the next 12 months. 30% of companies intend to reduce investments, showing a decrease in investor sentiment by 8 percentage points compared to the previous year (a level comparable to the COVID period and the beginning of the war in Ukraine). 88% of FIC respondents are also considering cost reductions in the coming period", according to the BSI report, presented on Friday at an FIC event dedicated to strategic dialogue on Romania's economic prospects. The results of the report also showed a trend of investment postponement due to political uncertainty, geopolitical context, budget deficit and fiscal uncertainties. As to workforce planning, half of respondents expect the number of employees to remain stable in 2025, indicating a period of stagnant hiring activity. At the same time, 27% anticipate a reduction in the size of the workforce, signaling a potential cooling of labor market dynamics. However, investors remain optimistic when it comes to business, with more than half of respondents expecting growth in the domestic market and only 12% expecting a contraction. In the export market, 30% expect growth, while 57% expect stagnation. Overall, almost half of respondents expect business growth, while 39% expect stagnation, FIC shows. "At the same time, investors are confident in Romania's opportunities: the new economic context of the EU, with Western European companies relocating some of their activities and production to Eastern Europe to reduce costs; the energy transition, if properly supported by the authorities, has the potential to generate business expansion; EU funds also remain a key opportunity for business development in Romania," the quoted source informs. According to FIC, Romania's accession to the OECD would represent another important step in attracting foreign investments to Romania and in improving the efficiency of the government sector. In addition, the EU has the opportunity to become stronger by focusing on increasing the competitiveness of EU businesses and reducing bureaucracy. This shift could realign the coordinates for the European economy to grow in the future, with an emphasis on the new industrial landscape for Romania (defense, aerospace and cybersecurity, critical raw materials, energy, etc.). At the event hosted by FIC, international institutions presented brief reports on Romania, highlighting concerns similar to the BSI findings regarding the budget deficit, political instability and the delay in the tax reform that is expected to be implemented since last year. "The rapid increase in government spending is one of the most worrying trends observed by all institutions. It was stressed that our country should focus on the PNRR reforms - taxation, energy transition, education, improving the business climate (clear and predictable environment) to ensure medium-long-term economic development. The government must take all measures to ensure that it does not lose EU funds. All institutions pointed out the possible negative impact of the new tariffs announced by the US administration not only on the Romanian and EU economies, but also indirectly, through the effect on international trade", FIC emphasizes. As to OECD accession, both national and OECD representatives highlighted the significant progress made by Romania in areas such as education, taxation, governance and anti-corruption. "Romania has good prospects for OECD accession in 2026. Romania still has the potential to reverse the negative economic trends captured by the macroeconomic outlook, if the Government urgently prepares reforms anchored in transparency and dialogue, in key areas, such as reducing spending, achieving fiscal consolidation and capitalizing on new opportunities in investment, energy, critical raw materials, and defense. At the same time, Romania's membership in the EU and NATO, together with potential OECD accession, remain strong advantages for stimulating and attracting investment," FIC representatives said. The organization remains committed to remaining a trusted partner in advancing reforms, supporting predictability, and consolidating Romania's position as a competitive and attractive investment destination. The Foreign Investors Council (FIC) hosted a high-level event on April 4, bringing together CEOs of member companies, ambassadors and embassy representatives, senior officials of the Romanian Government, international and national financial institutions, rating agencies and representatives of the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The meeting provided a platform for international dialogue on Romania's macroeconomic outlook and investment climate. FIC has been monitoring how investors respond to various policy initiatives and the broader macroeconomic context through the Business Sentiment Index (BSI) since 2013. The results of this spring's edition were presented at the event and indicate a moderation in members' optimism. The Foreign Investors Council is the association that brings together the most important foreign investors in Romania, approximately 110 of the largest companies in the country with a cumulative turnover representing approximately one fifth of the gross domestic product and which have a significant contribution to the state budget. In the over 25 years since the organization was founded, FIC member companies have always supported the importance of dialogue between the business community and authorities. Romania's membership of the North Atlantic Alliance is the strongest guarantee of security, Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said on Friday in a message marking NATO Day and the 21st anniversary of Romania's accession to the organization. "The most powerful political-military alliance in the world today celebrates 76 years since the signing of its founding treaty. For 21 years, Romania has been part of this important transatlantic system of collective defence and security. Our country's status as a member of the North Atlantic Alliance is the strongest guarantee of security, especially in the context of Russian aggression in Ukraine. The citizens of Romania, whose overwhelming will was at the basis of the accession, are today under NATO's security protection," Marcel Ciolacu said. "Our country has steadily strengthened its profile within the organization, through active and consistent participation in allied missions, and a distinct role in shaping NATO policies and decisions, including measures to strengthen the deterrence posture. The professionalism and sacrifices of the Romanian military in theaters of operations, for which we are grateful, are respected by both international partners and Romanian citizens. A recognition of the position and merits of our country within the Alliance is also the establishment of the Aegis Ashore ballistic missile defense system at Deveselu [Military Base, editor's note], with the defensive purpose of defending the population, territory and forces of Europe against possible ballistic missile threats from outside the Euro-Atlantic area," the prime minister added."Romania will continue to make a significant contribution to the collective defence of the Euro-Atlantic area, to the improvement of NATO's capabilities and to the implementation of allied decisions in accordance with the guidelines set out in the new Strategic Concept. Many happy returns to Romania in NATO! Happy Birthday to the North Atlantic Alliance!," Ciolacu added. The Southern Gas Corridor has significantly changed the gas market in Europe and contributed to reducing dependence on Russian gas, but the process is not over, and an expansion of the corridor is needed, especially to the Balkans and South-Eastern Europe, Romania's Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja wrote in a social media post on Friday. "Today I represented Romania in Baku, at the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting, where I reiterated my firm opinion that energy must be safe, accessible and clean - in this order of priorities. An order that is not dictated by ideology, but by reality and common sense. In the absence of the Southern Gas Corridor, Europe would have been much more vulnerable in recent years, in an extremely complicated geopolitical context. In just a few years of operation, the Southern Corridor has significantly changed the gas market in Europe and contributed to reducing dependence on Russian gas. But the process is not over. There is a need to expand the Corridor, especially to the Balkans and South-Eastern Europe," said Burduja. "I also presented to my counterparts at the meeting the exceptional results we had in terms of commissioning new production facilities - almost 2000 MW introduced into the grid in the last two years and another 18,000 MW in the works. The Black Sea also plays an increasingly important strategic role. The Neptun Deep project, with production estimated to start in 2027 at the latest, will consolidate Romania as the largest natural gas producer in the European Union. The extracted gas will fully cover domestic consumption and will allow exports to neighbouring states. Romania will thus also be a provider of energy security in the region. Romania supports and develops joint projects with Azerbaijan. We are part of the Green Energy Corridor, through which a 1,195 km submarine cable (world record) will move up to 4 GW of green energy between the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea. We already have the legislation for offshore wind energy, and we are working on the development of the first wind farms in the Black Sea. The future does not lie in isolationism, but in solidarity, in joint efforts and in the courage to build together, for future generations. The European Union and Romania must deal with the situation created by the introduction of the new tariffs by the USA calmly, we need to discuss and negotiate, believes the president of the UDMR (Democratic Union of Hungarians of Romania), Kelemen Hunor. Asked on Europa FM radio station how should Romania manage from a political and diplomatic point of view "this trade war that Donald Trump has triggered," the UDMR leader indicated that the situation must first and foremost be dealt with calmly. According to him, "the last time there were such customs duties, such a trade war, in the 1930s, the recession immediately came, the great recession, after which things became complicated in Europe and not only, but also in Asia." Aisha Sultan | Post-Dispatch Columnist and features writer Follow Aisha Sultan | Post-Dispatch 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. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Watching a scrawny 13-year-old boy snatched out of his bed during a police raid, during which he wets himself out of terror, immediately creates sympathy for him. That sympathy serves to heighten the gut punch when we learn this unassuming teen repeatedly stabbed his female classmate to death. The boy, a character named Jamie Miller, is the protagonist of the Netflix series Adolescence. The four-part British drama delves into the question of why Jamie would commit such a brutal murder. The answers reveal how susceptible boys are to the insidious role of social media and to the online radicalization of the manosphere. Wait the man-o-what? Gender-equality nonprofit Equimundo defines the manosphere as a broad collection of websites, forums and other online spaces characterized by their misogynistic and anti-feminist content. The manosphere successfully leveraged male pain points and digital spaces using strategic messaging that speaks to young mens lived challenges, according to Equimundo.org. Parents watching Adolescence may be shocked to learn about the many ways young boys and men are exposed to extreme misogyny online. There are influencers like Andrew Tate, as well as groups like Men Going Their Own Way, which encourage men to disengage from women. There are so-called pickup artists, looking to seduce women through manipulation; involuntary celibates (incels), who hate women for rejecting them; and red pill communities encouraging men to see society as stacked against them. Adolescence is a turbulent time when many young people feel isolated and are struggling to figure out who they are and what they believe. Boys who are searching for a sense of belonging become vulnerable to algorithms that feed them manosphere content blaming girls and women for their feelings of alienation and rejection. In the series, Jamies parents, who love their son and are devastated by his arrest, are clueless about whats been happening when he is in his room for hours, looking at a screen. This taps into parental fears about the technology that has become so pervasive in our childrens lives, even invading the parts of their inner lives we have no access to. This compelling series does a brilliant job of showing us how a family is torn apart by their sons online radicalization. But male violence against girls and women is a phenomenon as old as time, and the roots of toxic masculinity and the manosphere go further than the advent of social media. For digital-native generations, these roots appear in the fundamental changes in how they experience childhood: the amount of time they spend alone with their screens, the ways they digitally interact with their peers and how they are influenced online by strangers a number of whom hate, degrade and blame women along with the pressure they feel to compete and perform in society. Theres another significant societal change that has contributed to the lure of toxic masculinity: Younger generations have been exposed to graphic, sexualized content much earlier than previous generations. Most children are first exposed to porn in their early adolescent years, and that content is far more graphic and interactive than what previous generations had ever seen. Todays ubiquitous, easily accessible, free pornographic content which 70% of male teens report regularly consuming often reinforces the idea of women as replaceable, sexualized objects. For those who are already susceptible to loneliness and frustration, it can contribute to a sense of entitlement to womens bodies. Its vital for parents to know if their children or teens are watching violent or degrading content online, which influencers or online personalities they admire, and what types of interactions they are experiencing. Given the lack of tech regulations and governmental protections for children, parents have an even bigger responsibility to ask questions, monitor usage and be aware of their kids struggles. Obviously, a small percentage of the boys who spend hours in the manosphere will act out in violent ways. But there are other societal impacts of the rising influence of misogynist content on adolescent boys. The fallout will affect their interpersonal relationships, social interactions, and economic and social policies. Like Jamies blindsided parents, we ignore the manosphere at our own peril. ST. LOUIS A woman and her husband are suing a Kirkwood spa after one of its employees was charged with sexually assaulting her during a massage. The lawsuit, filed Wednesday, names Massage Luxe Kirkwood and massage therapist Jon Lindbergh as defendants. The couple, only identified as Jane and John Doe, allege the business' negligence in screening its employees and training them led to the assault on Sept. 24, 2024. Massage Luxe Kirkwood did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The couple is asking for a judgement in excess of $75,000. Lindbergh in October was charged with two counts of second-degree sexual abuse and one count of second-degree sodomy. Police said the incidents involved a female client while Lindbergh was working as a massage therapist. Lindbergh, 24, from St. Louis County, was arrested Oct. 25 on a $100,000 bond. In November, his attorney asked the court to reduce his bond to $5,000 so Lindbergh could live with his father in Brentwood as the case worked its way through the court. A judge in December denied the request. The next month, Lindbergh posted the $100,000 cash bond, according to court records. His next court date is April 11. Kirkwood police in October asked anyone who had similar experiences with Lindbergh to contact the department. CLAYTON A couple has sued the city of Maryland Heights and several officers, arguing police improperly arrested them and used an unconstitutional city ordinance to retaliate against them. Dashyra Dent and Kalan Parson say police misidentified Parson as a suspect and arrested him in 2022. When Dent began filming Parsons arrest, police then arrested her, too. She was later cited for resisting or interfering with an arrest. In the suit, filed Wednesday, the couple argues filming the police is free speech protected under the First Amendment. Moreover, the suit says, the city ordinance doesnt actually bar filming police despite the fact that police cited it in her arrest. The city has purposefully engineered a policy that undermines due process and chills constitutionally protected activities, including the recording of police conduct, the suit says. The ordinance, the suit says, is so vague it can be used by police as retaliation. Maryland Heights did not immediately comment on the lawsuit. The suit stems from an April 3, 2022, arrest while the the couple was staying at the Days Inn on Craig Road in Maryland Heights. Dent and Parson, both in their twenties, heard a commotion in the hall, the suit says. They stepped out of their room to see what was going on and the police rushed up to Parson and arrested him. The suspect police were looking for was wearing a red jacket, the suit says. Parson was not and would later be cleared as a suspect in that case. It was an especially sensitive time in the US, the suit notes. A series of incidents had led to the death of people in police custody. It was around this time that police officers across the nation were being filmed ending the lives of detainees who were in the process of being arrested without probable cause, the suit says. Thats why Dent took her phone out and began to record the interaction. But police demanded she leave the area and stop interfering with the arrest, the suit says. Dent was then arrested and later issued an ordinance violation of resisting or interfering with arrest, detention or stop, the suit says. The lawsuit says the ordinance is unconstitutionally vague and was used by police to retaliate against Dent after she began filming them. Moreover, the suit says the ordinance authorizes arrests for resisting arrest without requiring that the underlying arrest be lawful. Federal courts have repeatedly affirmed that the act of filming police activity in public is a constitutionally protected form of expression, the suit says. The lawsuit seeks damages in excess of $25,000. An investigator wrote that Sims did not turn on his body camera or contact other law enforcement when he arrived. Howard's suit says Sims chased him into a nearby store and forced Howard to exit the building, then slammed him on the hood of a car, knocking him to the ground. When he finally called for backup, officers arrived to find a man handcuffed who had obviously been beaten. Sims told Howard to leave before investigators could talk to him and take down contact information, Thursday's suit said. Sims resigned prior to the charges. His next court date in the criminal case is May 16. Howard's suit asked for a judgement in excess of $25,000. Interfax-Ukraine to host press conference based on results of all-Ukrainian public opinion monitoring State of public consciousness in fourth year of full-scale Russian invasion On Wednesday, April 9, at 12.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference entitled "State of public consciousness in fourth year of full-scale Russian invasion." Participants include Chief Researcher of the Department of Psychology of Masses and Communities of the Institute of Social and Political Psychology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine Vadym Vasiutynsky; Vice-President of the Association of Political Psychologists of Ukraine, Deputy Director for Scientific and Methodological Work of the Institute of Social and Political Psychology of the National Academy of Pedagogical Sciences of Ukraine, PhD in Psychological Sciences Svitlana Chunikhina (8/5a Reitarska Street). The event will be streamed on the Interfax-Ukraine YouTube channel. Admission requires registration on the spot with press ID cards. ST. LOUIS The race for three open seats on the St. Louis Board of Education boils down to a referendum on the one held by Antionette Toni Cousins, the only incumbent running for reelection. Cousins, the board president, commands a four-member majority on most votes as St. Louis Public Schools faces multiple academic, financial and leadership challenges. The district is led by its fourth superintendent in three years. Enrollment continues on a steady decline, and school closures are planned for 2026. The districts finances are murky in part because the annual audit is three months overdue. There has been no talk of climbing out of a budget deficit, even under looming threats to state and federal education funding. At least five former board members have spoken out against Cousins reelection bid, including St. Louis Treasurer Adam Layne. Every school board election is important, but this one is EXTREMELY important. On the current school board, we have one competent member whos actually working in the best interests of students and educators, said Layne, the city treasurer, on Facebook. The one competent member Layne refers to is Emily Hubbard, who has called for Cousins to resign and for an investigation of $53,567 in credit card charges for the school boards travel and supplies last year. The costs of Cousins seven trips to conferences include $185 in airline upgrades and convenience fees; meals above the $50 per diem; hotel rooms above $350 and flights above $500 all violations of SLPS policy. Cousins did not respond to a Post-Dispatch survey sent to the 11 school board candidates in Tuesdays election. In a speech recorded during a Sunday church service last month, Cousins said she has been persecuted for her work on the board, particularly after the firing of former Superintendent Keisha Scarlett for questionable hiring and spending. Ive been so under attack, and Ive been trying to stay strong, Cousins told the congregation March 2 at Washington Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church in north St. Louis. We have done an outstanding job at ensuring that the taxpayer dollars is being done right. We didnt get it right when we hired that superintendent. But we got it right by doing our jobs and doing right by getting rid of that superintendent. Cousins is vigorously defended by the Board of Education Secretary Donna Jones and Vice President Matt Davis, who was voted in with Cousins four years ago and is not seeking reelection. First and foremost, we must re-elect Toni Cousins to another term, Davis wrote in an endorsement on Facebook. Simply put, theres no one running that holds a candle to her knowledge, experience and passion. Davis pointed to successes of the last four years including the defeat of a state bill that would divert funding to charter schools, school safety improvements and the biggest pay raises for staff in 20 years. Its fair to criticize the Board for a lot of things that happened, but it is also a fact that Toni Cousins has led this Board in herculean efforts to help get the district back on track as quickly as possible, Davis wrote. Campaign trail Cousins has been a polarizing figure on the campaign trail. Shes endorsed by the American Federation of Teachers Local 420, but members of the union have circulated campaign materials opposing her. Its hard to trust the board, and I think that Toni Cousins is unprofessional and should not be the board president. I understand its an elected position, but I hope shes not reelected, reads one comment from a recent survey of SLPS staff. Only one of the other candidates for school board openly supports Cousins. Despite the upheaval since the termination of former Superintendent Dr. Scarlett, Toni Cousins has been able to accomplish much and has solutions currently being implemented or to be in place soon, said Teri Powers, who was also endorsed by the local teachers union. Cousins has raised more than any other candidate in the race with $12,480 in donations a week before the election, according to the Missouri Ethics Commission. Her largest donation, the maximum allowed of $2,600, came from South Side Property LLC registered to Munji Abdeljabbar, owner of several Gas Marts in the region. South Side Property has also donated the maximum amount to campaigns for Cousins mother Pam Boyd, alderwoman of the 13th ward. Cousins donations also include $100 each from former Alderman Jeffrey Boyd, who went to federal prison after pleading guilty to taking bribes from a local businessman, and the Rev. Charles Norris, pastor of St. James AME church in St. Louis. In April 2024, SLPS spent about $1,500 on a flight and hotel for Norris to attend the Black Love is Liberation conference in Oakland, California, with several district representatives, credit card statements show. Travel expenses for non-SLPS staff are a violation of district policy. The political action committee Coalition with STL Kids has spent $13,305 on the election to support Cousins opponents Krystal Barnett, Zacheriah Davis and Andre Walker. The committee has not disclosed its funders, but founder Chester Asher is associated with Opportunity Trust, a charter school incubator with deep pockets. Asher, a vocal SLPS critic, is suing the district for banning him from board meetings for six months in 2024. The three candidates on the Coalition slate did not complete the Post-Dispatch survey. District leadership In the last two years, the SLPS board has repeatedly failed to meet state and district requirements for recordkeeping and transparency. Its Proposition S Oversight Committee has no record of meeting in over a year to review $160 million for building repairs approved by voters in 2022. Student test scores and attendance remain among the lowest in the state. The $625,000 Citywide Plan for Education released by the board in 2023 has not inspired any changes. For the second year in a row, SLPS will be docked on Missouris annual performance report for submitting a late audit. The district is headed for a downgrade to provisional accreditation, which would bring extra scrutiny from state regulators. While I cant claim to know every detail of the boards actions, its clear that our community feels let down and betrayed, said school board candidate Allisa (AJ) Foster, a 2016 SLPS graduate. When these feelings are widespread among taxpayers, it signals that the board is not fulfilling its civic duty. Foster has raised $6,901 for her campaign including a total of $550 from three people with ties to Opportunity Trust: Rachel Powers, partner; Keith Williamson, board chair; and Maxine Clark, founding board director. Voters can expect me to listen to their concerns and advocate for them not only to my fellow board members but also to our locally elected leaders. It will take the entire city of St. Louis working together to move our school district forward, Foster said. Foster and four other candidates who responded to the Post-Dispatch candidate survey disagreed with the boards vote in February to name Millicent Borishade as superintendent without undertaking a traditional vetting process. Scarlett brought Borishade with her from Seattle in July 2023 to serve as her second-in-command. Why did the current board decide to give Millicent Borishade a contract before the election where three seats are open, and without community input as is normally done for the selection of a superintendent? asked Karen Collins-Adams, a school administrator and wife of longtime SLPS Superintendent Kelvin Adams, who retired in 2022. Collins-Adams has raised $2,385 including $125 from Jeffrey Boyd and $400 from Jimmie Edwards, who is suing SLPS for the return of $695,000 in personal property at Blewett Middle School where the former family court judge ran an alternative school. Brian Marston, an SLPS parent who earned the third endorsement from the teachers union, said he would have preferred someone with stronger ties to St. Louis and the school district to replace Scarlett. Regardless of whether (Borishade) is the right person for the job, the timing and process by which the decision to appoint her was made did not engender community trust and buy-in, Marston said. Perennial candidate and former school board member Bill Monroe said he would rather see two people sharing the role of superintendent. His running mate David Jackson, who served on the board from 2007 to 2015, called Borishades hire a grave mistake because of her connection to Scarlett. A recent SLPS staff survey indicates low morale and a lack of trust in district leadership ahead of the election. Only five out of 61 school principals said the working environment is overall positive, and 19% of teachers responded favorably to the statement I feel valued by SLPS. In open comments of the survey, one staff member wrote: The District as a whole needs to get rid of anyone that has a connection to Keisha Scarlett. There is absolutely NO faith in District leadership or the School Board and both need to be wiped clean and started fresh. JEFFERSON CITY The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services began sending emails immediately upon learning a week ago that the federal government was clawing back tens of millions of dollars that were supposed to go to public health departments and efforts across the state over the next year. One email to a grant recipient, sent March 25, explained that state health officials were suddenly notified that morning by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that three funding streams for pandemic-preparedness were terminated effective at midnight the day prior. The recipient must submit all outstanding invoices for reimbursement by March 31, DHSS advised. Anything spent after March 24 would not be repaid. This unexpected termination of awards by the CDC leaves the department and our valued partners in a very difficult situation, the email read. As you work through the impact of this information, please know we are doing the same. The three funding sources total $255 million for the state, according to DHSS spokeswoman Lisa Cox. The termination impacts a number of projects currently underway, totaling about $135 million. An additional $119 million, which had yet to be earmarked for projects, was also cut, Cox said in an email Friday to the Post-Dispatch. The majority of the funding was not supposed to expire until July 2026. DHSS is working to understand the full impact of this federal action and searching for options to carry on some of this work, Cox wrote. She did not provide details of the projects underway that are now cut off. The loss is hitting many hard, especially small, rural health departments where the funding made up large chunks of their budgets, said Cooper County Public Health Center Administrator Scott Clardy, who also serves on the board for two statewide public health associations where he gets an earful from other directors across the state. Clardy said the loss of funds is affecting health departments that were in the middle of renovations to upgrade their facilities and information technology systems. Others say they will not be able to pay staff members. Weve got some health administrators that are really struggling. Theres no time to transition, theres no time to do any of that, Clardy said. The funding is gone. The St. Louis County Department of Public Health faces losing seven community health workers who connected residents to services such lifestyle changes, blood pressure monitoring and mental health counseling, as well as an employee in its communicable disease response division, said Sara Dayley, the health departments public information officer. State and county laboratories will also face challenges with maintaining staff and equipment, Dayley said. These funding reductions create real challenges for protecting public health in St. Louis County, she said. The St. Louis Department of Health is still assessing the full impact, said director Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis, but as a department that relies on grants for 55% of our funding, any cuts threaten our ability to provide essential services. Immunization group at risk Another casualty is the Missouri Immunization Coalition, which had to cancel its annual conference at the end of this month, lay off half its staff and is in danger of shuttering altogether. The nonprofit coalition works to reduce the spread of vaccine-preventable disease by educating families and collaborating with providers. Nearly 300 people were expected at MICs two-day annual conference, April 24-25. Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams, who served during President Donald Trumps first administration, was scheduled to be the keynote speaker, and groups were expected to strategize how to turn around Missouris falling and dangerously low vaccination rates and discuss the latest updates in infectious diseases. Dr. Ken Haller, emeritus professor of pediatrics for St. Louis University, is a longtime volunteer with MIC. He described the conference cancellation as tragic. It was an opportunity to share ideas such as how best to talk to hesitant families about vaccines, Haller said. It was also a much-needed source of support and inspiration for health care workers, especially those in small communities, who have felt isolated and besieged by increasing anti-vaccine sentiment. The loss may not seem like much in the fallout from the Trump administrations effort to reduce government spending by as much as $1 trillion and streamline bureaucracy by firing tens of thousands of federal workers. Still, Haller said, this is the sort of small, local cancellation that brings this to our front door. The MIC was founded in January 2020, after health care workers recognized the need for a coordinated effort to improve vaccination rates and form a coalition much like other states had. Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. The organization spent the next few years as an important resource during the rapidly changing effort to combat the novel coronavirus. It organizes virtual quarterly meetings and frequent webinars for its 300 members, provides continuing education credits for workers and conducts community outreach. The organization had finally reached a point where it could focus on securing other funding sources and even expand staff, said Lawrence Simonson, the executive director. Instead, the sudden loss of funding leaves the MIC with nothing. Three of six employees have been laid off, and money that was already invested into hosting the conference will be lost. Unless something happens in the next month or two we may have to make the hard decision of dissolving, he said. Cutbacks amid rising health risks The funds are among $11.4 billion the CDC is pulling back nationwide, which was allocated to state and community health departments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as first reported by NBC News and confirmed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The money also went to addiction and mental health programs. The COVID-19 pandemic is over, and HHS will no longer waste billions of taxpayer dollars responding to a non-existent pandemic that Americans moved on from years ago, HHS Director of Communications Andrew Nixon said in a statement. HHS is prioritizing funding projects that will deliver on President Trumps mandate to address our chronic disease epidemic and Make America Healthy Again. Attorneys general and other officials from 23 mostly Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration on Tuesday to block the decision, arguing the cuts are illegal and put states at greater risk for future pandemics and the spread of otherwise preventable disease and cutting off vital public health services. Clardy, the Cooper County health administrator, said the Congress-approved funds have been available since 2021 to help the nations public health infrastructure respond to the pandemic but also prepare for future outbreaks. Weve always been underfunded, and were still underfunded, Clardy said. This was trying to help us get ready for the next time this happens, so we arent as unprepared as we were for COVID. The cuts come in the midst of a loss of 20,000 workers at HHS 10,000 through layoffs and 10,000 who took early retirement amounting to nearly a quarter of its staff. About 2,400 worked at the CDC, the agency under HHS that tracks disease outbreaks and works with public health agencies nationwide. The U.S. is also experiencing its worst measles outbreak since 2019. As of April 1, at least 560 measles cases in more than 20 states have been reported this year already surpassing the 285 cases for all of 2024. One child has died and another death is under investigation. No cases have been reported in Missouri, but health officials fear its just a matter of time. Vaccination coverage must be above 95% for communities to be protected against the highly contagious disease. But data shows that among Missouri public school kindergarteners last school year, less than 91% were vaccinated against measles, down from 95% in the 2019-2020 school year. Among private school kindergarteners, about 85% are vaccinated, down from 92%. And the state has pockets of places where rates are as low as 70%, said Lynelle Phillips, a nurse in Columbia who serves on board for the Missouri Immunization Coalition. Measles is knocking at our doors, Phillips said. These are all the things that we wanted to mobilize our workforce and our partners to address, and now we dont have the mechanism to do that. In addition, neighboring Kansas has recently experienced one of the largest outbreaks of tuberculosis in the U.S. in the past 30 to 40 years. And bird flu is widespread with U.S. outbreaks in poultry and dairy cows, resulting tens of millions of ducks and chickens that have had to be euthanized. As many as 70 humans have been infected, but no human-to-human transmission has been reported yet. Our job is to be out there and educating people about these things, trying to get them to get themselves and their kids immunized, and were just not going to have the staff to do that, Clardy said. That staff is being pulled away right at the crux of when we may need them the most. Davis, the St. Louis health department director, agreed that funding cuts could not come at worse time. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new head of HHS, has given inconsistent messages about vaccine safety. Kennedy has promised to investigate the childhood vaccine schedule. Public meetings by the CDC who make recommendations on vaccines have been canceled. And the CDC is preparing to research autism and vaccines, despite numerous studies concluding no link between the two. Davis said, Growing skepticism about vaccines, fueled by misinformation and disinformation, is creating confusion and fear when accurate public health guidance is needed most. ST. LOUIS Two vocal critics of the citys north St. Louis grant program are suing to block the citys economic development arm from making any more payments. The lawsuit from Tameka Stigers and her Delmar Boulevard salon, Locs of Glory, and developer Kevin Bryants Kingsway Development accuses the city and the St. Louis Development Corp. of awarding grants in an arbitrary, unlawful and irrational manner. The $37 million North Side grant program, funded with federal pandemic aid, caused controversy last year after business owners passed over for grants began questioning SLDCs process for vetting and choosing grant winners. Stigers, who applied for a $1 million grant, was one of the most vocal critics, arguing SLDC should have kept the focus on longtime north St. Louis business owners like it had promised rather than awarding large grants to big institutions such as the Urban League. A Post-Dispatch investigation found some grants were going to go to organizations connected to the family of Alderwoman Shameem Clark Hubbard, who sponsored a bill expanding the grants eligibility. The newspaper also found other grants were slated to go to businesses that listed addresses in vacant buildings or werent in north St. Louis. After the outcry, SLDC put the program on hold and had its board review and approve grants before they were awarded. SLDC also rescinded some of the more controversial awards, including those in vacant buildings and a $739,000 grant tied to a nonexistent homeless shelter that a Clark-Hubbard family member planned. The Urban League also eventually relinquished its $2 million award for upgrades to its North Kingshighway headquarters, saying construction costs had risen and the projects budget had become unaffordable. Other grants have been approved, like $1.7 million for Ozella J. Foster Funeral Services, which opened its new building on Martin Luther King Drive this week. Stigers is still in line for a potential $12,500 that could go to any eligible applicant, pending checks on taxes and operations. But she and other critics have called that hush money. Bryant, whose development firm is another plaintiff, has also criticized the program, and SLDC last month rescinded his award of $500,000. He applied for more than $3 million from the program. The lawsuit, filed by attorney Elkin Kistner, argues the program has violated federal pandemic aid regulations and the Missouri Constitutions prohibition on gifts to individuals. That argument found success in St. Louis Circuit Court last year, when a judge stopped a city plan to use pandemic aid to pay $500 a month to poor families. The lawsuit asks a judge to halt the program and declare it unconstitutional. A spokesman for SLDC, Deion Broxton, said the agency hasnt been served with the lawsuit but SLDC has discretion to deny funds to businesses it believes arent capable of meeting the programs goals. SLDC also pointed out that Bryant has defaulted on a $5.7 million city-backed loan. As a matter of good stewardship, SLDC would prefer to see Kingsway complete a redevelopment project before investing $500,000 of the Citys ARPA allocation in a new endeavor, Broxton said. A spokesman for Mayor Tishaura O. Jones declined to comment. JEFFERSON CITY The latest attempt to prohibit local governments from banning the declawing of cats is moving again in the Missouri Legislature. Rep. Jim Murphy, a south St. Louis County Republican, is sponsoring a proposal that would overturn local bans on the practice approved in the city of St. Louis in 2019 and adopted by St. Louis County in 2022. Murphy, who has pushed for similar measures in previous years, says the local ordinances overstep the bounds of regulating animals. Opponents of the legislation are again raising questions about the latest GOP-led push to limit the powers of municipalities and counties. In testimony to a House committee last month, Springfield lobbyist Will Marrs said the push is in direct conflict with the concept of local control and would limit the citys ability to step in to address local concerns. We want to be able to adapt to various changes in professions and to be able to curtail the actions of bad actors should it become necessary in the future, especially when the city population is continually expanding as is the metro region, he wrote. The measure was approved in the House in March on 103-30 vote, with no Democratic support. It now awaits further debate in the Senate. The bill would allow the state to preempt any local government from enacting or enforcing a policy that restricts a number of licensed professions, ranging from doctors to pharmacists. The inclusion of veterinarians in the list has become a focus of those who oppose the plan. Bob Baker, who represents the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation, called it problematic that veterinarians are included in the proposal. Every profession has its bad apples. If this bill passes, they will have absolutely no oversight whatsoever, Baker said. The Humane Society of the United States also opposes the plan, arguing that declawing is a particularly nasty procedure that can encourage biting by otherwise defenseless cats. Once a common procedure, many veterinary professionals now advise against declawing. The American Association of Feline Practitioners strongly opposes the practice. The American Veterinary Medical Association discourages declawing but leaves it up to veterinarians to decide whats best for the cat. Declawing can lead to complications for cats, including chronic pain, infection, nerve trauma, behavioral problems and lameness, according to the feline practitioner association. Alternatives include providing more scratching posts, regularly trimming claws and temporary nail caps. During debate, Murphy said veterinarians who oppose his bill were just shameful. Under St. Louis Countys ordinance, the procedure must be deemed medically necessary and can only be performed by a licensed veterinarian while the animal is under anesthesia. The procedure is illegal in several European countries. New York prohibited elective declawing of cats in 2019. Other cities with bans include Los Angeles, San Francisco and Denver.Murphy has previously attempted to overturn ordinances approved by the Democrat-controlled city and county. He has backed legislation that would stop the local governments from imposing on private property and has also fought against local government health orders designed to control the spread of infectious diseases like COVID-19. The legislation is House Bill 325. Laura Loomer, a right-wing personality known for her incendiary social media presence, appeared to have been sidelined at points by Donald Trump's campaign and then by his administration. But she has long had the president's ear and may have it again, at least for now. In an Oval Office meeting on Wednesday, the conservative activist urged Trump to fire National Security Council officials, as the team struggles to answer questions not only on why they were using Signal, a publicly available encrypted app, to discuss a military operation in Yemen, but how a journalist was mistakenly added to the group chat. Trump followed suit, people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. It was the latest sign of Loomer's influence, even as she has faced criticism for entertaining 9/11 conspiracy theories and her history of anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim posts. Loomer, who is prolific on social media, has been tearing into some of Trump's allies and advisers, calling out what she calls a "vetting crisis" within the White House and implying members of his team are trying to subvert his agenda. Trump has long praised Loomer while distancing himself at times from her most controversial comments. Here's what to know about Loomer and what both she and Trump said about the latest incident. How did she get close to Trump? Loomer, 31, has been involved in politics as an advocate of Trump. She twice unsuccessfully ran for Congress in 2020 and 2022 in South Florida and had been known for staging protests including handcuffing herself to a Twitter office after the service banned her and jumping a fence at a home owned by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. She says she was invited to Mar-a-Lago after leading attacks against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who was preparing to challenge Trump in the 2024 GOP presidential primary. Last year, Loomer accompanied Trump on his 9/11 travels in New York and Pennsylvania and was also seen walking out of the plane the previous day after Trump landed in Philadelphia to debate his electoral opponent, then-Vice President Kamala Harris. Loomer said she was invited those days as a guest. Loomer said she never officially joined the campaign after Trump's allies preferred he would keep his distance. What makes her an influential figure? Loomer has been banned from numerous social media platforms, including Facebook. She posted during last year's presidential campaign that if Harris beat Trump, "the White House will smell like curry & White House speeches will be facilitated via a call center." Harris was the first Black woman and person of South Asian descent to serve as vice president. In December she publicly sparred with billionaire adviser Elon Musk, a native of South Africa, over their opposing positions on the use of skilled migration visas. The conservative activist says such visas go against the "America First" agenda. Her account on X, a social media platform owned by Musk, was temporarily suspended, and for some time following the feud, she said she lost access to other paid features. Earlier this month, Trump ended Secret Service protection details assigned to Democrat Joe Biden's adult children following a report from Loomer with photos showing Hunter Biden's protective detail while in South Africa. What is she known for? Loomer has a podcast called "Loomer Unleashed" on Rumble, a platform known for streaming far-right figures. Her last name has been coined as a verb that people on both sides of the political aisle use for when politicians, officials, or other figures are publicly shamed. The influencer frequently makes anti-Islam and anti-immigrant posts on social media and made vile racist and sexist attacks against Harris. She once shared a video on X that said "9/11 was an Inside Job!" The conspiracy theory that U.S. officials are hiding information about the Sept. 11 attacks or were somehow involved in the planning has taken hold among a segment of determined "truthers," but many of their most prevalent claims have fallen apart upon further scrutiny. What happened with Loomer this week? People speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss personnel matters say Loomer met with Trump, Vice President JD Vance, chief of staff Susie Wiles, national security adviser Mike Waltz and Sergio Gor, director of the Presidential Personnel Office and presented "research findings." When reached for comment, Loomer referred The Associated Press to an X post shared earlier on Thursday, saying she was not going to divulge any details about her Oval Office meeting with Trump "out of respect" for the president. "I will continue working hard to support his agenda, and I will continue reiterating the importance of, and the necessity of STRONG VETTING, for the sake of protecting the President of the United States of America, and our national security," Loomer said. In a post later Thursday on X, Loomer appeared to take credit for the firings, writing, "You know how you know the NSC officials I reported to President Trump are disloyal people who have played a role in sabotaging Donald Trump?" She then noted that "the fired officials" were being defended by Trump critics on CNN and MSNBC. Loomer has been critical of Waltz and his own vetting process. In the lead up to the meeting, she complained to sympathetic administration officials that he relied too much on "neocons," or neoconservatives within the GOP and "not-MAGA-enough" types. Loomer has attacked principal deputy national security adviser Alex Wong, who was Waltz' aide taking the lead in assembling the team based on the conversation shared by journalist Jeffrey Goldberg. What has Trump said about her? During last year's election after her racist posts about Harris, Trump said, "Laura's been a supporter of mine" and that she had "strong opinions," but denied knowledge of her comments. He would later post on his Truth Social account that he disagreed with her comments. Trump denied on Thursday that Loomer had anything to do with aides being ousted from their jobs at the National Security Council, calling her a "very good patriot and a very strong person." Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One as he made his way to Miami that she only made recommendations. "Sometimes I listen to those recommendations, like I do with everybody," Trump said, adding: "She's usually very constructive. She recommended certain people for jobs." MOUNDVILLE, Mo. The tornado that ripped through west-central Missouri Wednesday morning destroyed in seconds things that had been rooted in the area for decades. Moundville resident Craig Bott learned just how swiftly mother natures fury can act. The tornados roar lasted only five seconds, but that was enough to demolish Botts service station, a family business and a Moundville, Missouri, landmark, leaving Bott in shock and with a feeling of uncertainty. It couldnt have lasted more than five seconds, and it just roared and things were slamming and banging, Bott, owner of Moundville Service Station, said. He rode out the storm in his house which is near the station. Bott recounted the scene as he was trying to get to the basement with his two cats. I looked out my garage door window and I could see that (automobile) lift in there and Im like oh, man, its gone. His wife, Patti, was safe at work in Nevada. His house still stood. But the station, the place where hed worked since he was 14, the place his father had built, was in ruins. Moundville is about 10 miles southwest of Nevada which also saw severe damage from a tornado. For Bott, it wasnt just the station, wiped out by Wednesdays tornado, it was his legacy, a place hed worked all his life, a business his father built, brick by brick. This block building, Bott said, recalling how hed hauled blocks as an 11-year-old boy to help his dad, Lyman Bott build it in 1969, It was pretty strong... This building was pretty tough, it had been through a lot of storms. Lyman Bott purchased an old Phillips 66 gas station in the late 1950s and built a thriving business. When Highway 43, which once ran through the middle of town, was rerouted, Lyman relocated the service station to its current location at 239 N. Broadway, along Highway 43. Bott said he still provided full-service at his two-pump station which carried diesel and unleaded fuel for his customers. He only accepted cash or checks, no credit cards. I still pump your gas, wash your windshield, check your oil, well, I did it all, said Bott. I had customers, a lot of old ladies, too, that would come from Nevada because they couldnt get that service anywhere no more. Shortly after the tornado hit, neighbors, friends, even strangers, arrived to help. Bott said some arrived with tears in their eyes, others arrived with trucks, trailers, chainsaws, and skid loaders to help salvage what they could from the service station. You know, it was actually overwhelming Bott said. There was several (people) that I didnt even know who they were. Austin Potthast was one of those who showed up to help despite not knowing Bott. I heard what happened so I just loaded up my skid loader and came to help, said Potthast of Liberal, Missouri, about 20 miles south of Moundville, a town of about 100 people. Yes, theyve been wonderful, neighbors, friends, customers, Bott said. Its been incredible. Bott said college students from nearby Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas, and Cottey College in Nevada came to town to help others also impacted by the early-morning tornado. The storm also heavily damaged a cabinetry shop, some homes and took the roofs off of several buildings, including the towns post office. The outpouring of support for Bott lasted until dark as volunteers recovered auto supplies, tools and other items. They also dug out three cars from the collapsed service station, including a classic dark blue 1965 Chevrolet Bel Air that Bott said was ready for the owner to pick up. Two vintage, 1970s-era Honda motorcycles were also recovered. Now he does not know what comes next. Its been my life since I was born, said Bott. As the community rallied, Bott, 65, grapples with an uncertain future. The station wasnt just a business; it was his life, his identity. Hed always envisioned following his fathers path, working there until his final days, just as his father had until a stroke claimed him in 2019. I dont know what Im going to do. I just thought Id be here like my dad, he said. My dad was here working every day until hes 92, when he suddenly had a stroke and died. And, he was working the day before he had a stroke, he added. And I kind of planned on doing the same thing. Thats all Ive ever known to do. Hes not sure right now, but I know him, he cant sit still, said Patti Bott. He cant, you know. He could theoretically retire, but he never would, she added. So I foresee it (the station) coming back. It's distressing to witness international college students and professors targeted by ICE for speaking up for the innocent Palestinian victims in Gaza. Nearly 70% of the war dead have been women and children. In no way does a call for the end of indiscriminate bombing and the provision of basic humanitarian aid in Gaza equate with support for Hamas. In effect, most Palestinians are now hostages themselves as war rages between Hamas and Israel. It takes courage and empathy to speak up for the powerless when they are suffering. Right now we need more of that. Leonard Fagan Webster Groves Cmdr. Christopher Johnson was relieved of his duties on April 2, 2025, due to a loss of confidence in his ability to lead Navy Information Operations Command-Colorado. (U.S. Navy) WASHINGTON The commanding officer of a Colorado information operations command was fired, the Navy said Thursday. Cmdr. Christopher Johnson was relieved of his duties Wednesday due to a loss of confidence in his ability to lead. Navy Information Operations Command-Colorado is a subordinate command of Naval Information Operations Command Pacific, which is headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii. The U.S. military routinely cites only a vague loss of confidence when removing commanders and other leaders from authority positions. The Navy maintains the highest standards for commanding officers and holds them accountable when those standards are not met, the Navy said in a statement. Johnson was temporarily reassigned to U.S. Fleet Cyber Command. Cmdr. Mark Tuner, the naval information forces liaison officer to U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, will temporarily serve as NIOC-Colorados commanding officer until a permanent replacement is designated. Johnson assumed command of the information operations command in May 2023. Johnson, a native of Michigan, graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelors degree in physics and commissioned though Officer Candidate School, according to his biography on the Naval Information Forces website. He also earned a masters degree in electrical engineering with a focus on computer architecture and reconfigurable computing from the Naval Post Graduate School. His assignments include reconnaissance special evaluator and special collections division officer at Naval Security Group Activity Misawa, Japan, and operations officer and reconnaissance special evaluator at Navy Information Operation Command Bahrain in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Johnson also served as a division officer aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson, and he completed two deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, the U.S. militarys initial response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He has deployed to the western Pacific and Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the U.S. militarys war on the Islamic State, and served as the U.S. 7th Fleets director of the offensive maritime information operations center aboard the USS Blue Ridge, an amphibious command ship. Johnsons decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various campaign, unit and service awards. Capt. Justin Harts, outgoing commander of Destroyer Squadron 15, addresses the change-of-command audience aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, on April 4, 2025. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes) YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan A contingent of international military officers joined U.S. sailors Friday as command of the Navys largest destroyer squadron passed to its deputy commodore. Capt. David Huljack relieved Capt. Justin Harts as commander of Destroyer Squadron 15 and Task Force 71 during a ceremony on the flight deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn. As the new task force commodore, Huljack is expected to coordinate approximately 3,000 sailors and 10 Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers that are the primary battle force in the Indo-Pacific for the U.S. 7th Fleet. The squadron also deploys as escorts alongside the fleets aircraft carrier, now the USS George Washington, and its strike group. You are the epitome of the quiet professionals, Harts told sailors during the ceremony. Theres no time for dancing with lampshades on your head when you need to go to work. This work has to get done, and you do it. Among the attendees were military representatives from Australia, Canada, Japan, Italy and New Zealand a point of pride for Harts. When he first assumed command of the squadron the informal coalition of partners primarily consisted of Australia, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom and New Zealand, Harts said. Capt. Dave Huljack, incoming commander of Destroyer Squadron 15, speaks during the change-of-command ceremony aboard the USS John Finn at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, on April 4, 2025. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes) Capt. Justin Harts departs the USS John Fin following a change-of-command ceremony at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, on April 4, 2025. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes) Now, France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands and other countries allied with or friendly to the U.S. are operating in the region, he told Stars and Stripes after the ceremony. All of these countries are coming here because they recognize that the Indo-Pacific is the most consequential [area of responsibility] in the world, he said. The list of countries gets even longer when coast guard elements are added, he said. The demand is insatiable, because all of these countries want to ensure the stability and continuation of the liberal international order, he said. Its so important. Under Harts, the squadron completed 31 freedom-of-navigation operations and 33 transits of the Taiwan Strait, high-visibility events often criticized by China. The Navy routinely sends warships through the 110-mile-wide strait that separates Taiwan from mainland China, usually to move between the South China and East China seas. The service also often sends warships past the Spratly and Paracel islands, two archipelagos in the South China Sea claimed by surrounding nations, and, in some places, occupied by China. The Navys stated goal for such missions is to ensure the right to innocent passage. Harts will go on to the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, R.I., to teach either international relations or strategy and policy, he told Stars and Stripes. Huljack, of Stockton, N.J., most recently served as deputy commodore but has served aboard numerous surface warships and commanded the guided-missile destroyer USS Barry while it was homeported at Yokosuka. Commodore Harts established a fantastic legacy and has a great track record for building allies and partners, Huljack told Stars and Stripes after the ceremony. I hope that I can pick up where he left off and keep moving that direction. Huljack previously held posts at the Naval Academy and Surface Warfare Officer School, and served as chief of staff for the Strategy, Plans and Policy Directorate for the Joint Staff. He graduated with a bachelors in history from the U.S. Naval Academy and a masters in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College. A group of Red Cross registered nurses and volunteers arrive at Yokota Air Base April 7, 1975 after assisting on a flight dropping off 325 Vietnamese orphans in San Francisco, California. The nurses and volunteers are all of wives of Air Force men stationed in Japan. (Timothy A. Wehr/Stars and Stripes) This article first appeared in the Stars and Stripes Pacific edition, Apr. 9, 1975. It is republished unedited in its original form. TOKYO Nine Red Cross registered nurses and volunteers, all of them wives of Air Force men stationed in Japan, returned here Monday from a babylift flight carrying Vietnamese orphans to the United States and said theyd make the trip again anytime. The group, led by Mrs. Ann Coley, a registered nurse, left Yokota AB early Sunday aboard a Pan American 707 carrying 325 orphans ranging from infants to age 13. President and Mrs. Gerald Ford met the plane in San Francisco. We didnt get to see Mrs. Ford, but we did meet the President, Mrs. Coley said. He thanked us, said he was grateful for our help and God bless you. Three hundred twenty-seven children had been aboard the plane chartered by the Friends of All Children in Boulder, Colo. when it left Saigon. Two youngsters were taken from the plane at Yokota and hospitalized at Tachikawa AB, one suffering from malnutrition and the other from conjunctivities, inflammation of the mucous membranes of the eyes. Mrs. Coley said there were no complications on the flight to San Francisco, but everyone was very busy. We had some victims of the C5 crash aboard and 270 of the children were younger than two years old, she said. Even an Air Force photographer who was aboard was carrying babies and boiling nipples and bottles, she said. The children slept and ate in shifts, said Mrs. Fran Lydon, also a registered nurse. Some would sleep and wed feed the others. Wed put the first ones to sleep and the others would wake up to be fed. Ann Coley, a registered nurse, arrives back at Yokota Air Base April 7, 1975 after assisting on a Operation Babylift flight carrying 325 Vietnamese orphans to San Francisco, Calif. (Timothy A. Wehr/Stars and Stripes) Marlys Moore arrives back at Yokota Air Base April 7, 1975 after assisting on a flight evacuating 325 Vietnamese orphans. (Timothy A. Wehr/Stars and Stripes) Denise Racz arrives back at Yokota Air Base April 7, 1975 after assisting on a flight dropping off 325 Vietnamese orphans in San Francisco, Calif. (Timothy A. Wehr/Stars and Stripes) One of the eight Red Cross registered nurses and volunteers (unidentified by photographer) arrives at Yokota Air Base April 7, 1975. (Timothy A. Wehr/Stars and Stripes) It was a continuous cycle. Infants were fed from bottles during the flight and Mrs. Coley said many of them developed diarrhea. Wire service reports from California earlier said doctors there attributed the intestinal disorders to the milk the children received on the flight. They apparently werent used to that kind of milk, they said. Mrs. Coley said arrangements to meet the children in San Francisco were excellent. There was a Red Cross worker to meet each child and they had brought along as many doctors as were available, she said. There were 10 doctors on the flight from Yokota to California, she added. One member of the group of nurses and volunteers who returned here Monday said she felt she could do anything now. On the flight home, there was a baby crying in the front of the airplane, she said. Many times, I wanted to get up and go pick it up. After the flight to California, I know I could have gotten it to stop crying. Other members of the group were Red Cross volunteers Betty Oryall, Denise Racz and Mary Ann Cantu and registered nurses Yvonne Duncan, Marlys Moore, Diane Decker, Gwen Graham, Barbara Johnson and Kathy Smyers. Mrs. Graham and Mrs Smyers and will return to Japan later. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Fariz Ismayilzade, head of the working group on Azerbaijan-United Kingdom interparliamentary relations, has sent a letter of protest to the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Armenia in the UK Parliament, Trend reports. The letter firmly rejects the baseless accusations aimed at discrediting the trial of individuals responsible for war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and military aggression committed during Armenias 30-year occupation. Labeling these individuals as "prisoners of war" and calling for their release disregards the severity of their crimes, all of which are supported by substantial evidence. During the occupation, Armenia forcibly displaced nearly one million Azerbaijanis and committed the Khojaly Genocide, as well as urbicide, culturcide, and ecocide. Azerbaijani cities and villages were destroyed, cultural and religious heritage desecrated, and severe environmental damage was inflicted. Armenia also planted landmines across the occupied territories, making Azerbaijan one of the most heavily mine-contaminated countries in the world. These mines continue to kill and injure civilians and delay both the return of displaced persons and the reconstruction efforts. The letter also emphasizes the fate of nearly 4,000 missing Azerbaijanis, including women and children. Armenia refuses to provide information about the mass graves, which could help determine the whereabouts of these individuals. Additionally, Armenian leaders have long promoted ethnic hatred of Azerbaijanis. Former Armenian presidents publicly justified ethnic cleansing, endorsing the forced expulsion of Azerbaijanis and the Khojaly Genocide. Despite these crimes, no one in Armenia has been held accountable, and war criminals continue to be respected. In contrast, Azerbaijan has been ensuring justice since restoring its territorial integrity. While Azerbaijan released over 200 Armenians as a humanitarian gesture, those responsible for war crimes are now facing trial in Baku. They are charged under Azerbaijani law with crimes including military aggression, war violations, enforced disappearances, torture, and terrorism. The judicial process is transparent, with legal representation ensured, and no complaints of mistreatment have been reported. Criticizing this process refutes justice and implicitly supports ethnic cleansing and aggression. True peace can only be achieved through accountability, for there can be no lasting peace without justice. The ongoing legal proceedings shed light on Armenian military aggression and occupation, as well as the accountability of the political and military figures involved. Concerns over this process have led to attempts to undermine the trial and interfere with judicial matters. However, rather than engaging in such efforts, constructive cooperation with the legal process would support justice and contribute to lasting regional stability. A sincere commitment to peace would be reflected in acknowledging responsibility and ensuring accountability for those involved in war crimes. Such a judicial approach serves as an important example to the international community in preventing future conflicts and violations of international law. Turning a blind eye to these violations will not impede the pursuit of justice. True and fair accountability demands meaningful action, not merely rhetoric. The letter further emphasizes that the aforementioned stances of certain Members of the UK Parliament are having an adverse effect on the peace process currently underway between the two states. Azerbaijan appreciates the UK Government's balanced position regarding the former conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The UK has always supported Azerbaijan's territorial integrity in line with the norms and principles of international law. However, referring to the Garabagh Region of Azerbaijan as "Artsakh" by some members of the UK Parliament not only disrespects Azerbaijan's territorial integrity but also contradicts the UK Government's official position on the former conflict and constitutes a flagrant violation of international law. As Azerbaijan strives to move past the 30-year-long bitter conflict and make progress towards normalization, it is crucial to support this process and encourage Armenia to take the final important steps as soon as possible, so the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan can finally be signed. This is the only pathway to peace and prosperity in the region. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel A young girl enjoys playing firefighter during a visit to Little Kids Town in Eppstein, Germany, on March 22, 2025. (Bradley Latham/Stars and Stripes) My wife and I have found that most family attractions in Wiesbaden, home to the U.S. Armys headquarters in Europe, are geared toward children a few years older than the 2- and 4-year-old rascals we have running around the house. While an occasional day trip to the zoo or lake can be a nice change of pace, sometimes the logistics alone are enough to stop us from venturing further than the neighborhood playground or ice cream shop down the street. We recently came across a nearby play venue designed for little humans, and parents alike, that made for a fine outing on a late Saturday morning. Little Kids Town, about 15 minutes outside of Wiesbaden in Eppstein, provides a safe, clean space for children 6 and under to play, while parents can take a well-deserved breather. Little Kids Town in Eppstein, Germany, provides children 6 and under an array of areas to explore imaginative play in a scaled-down city. (Bradley Latham/Stars and Stripes) The tiny downtown main street is home to seven different play areas that include a doctors office, a grocery store, a fire station and more. A reasonably spacious cafe with seating for 20-30 guests and free Wi-Fi allows parents enough distance to relax or squeeze in some remote work while keeping an eye on the children. Little Kids Town uses a reservation system to minimize congestion. During our visit, there were about 10 kids playing while five or six couples sat in the cafe enjoying drinks, pastries, and small sandwiches. My wife and I soaked in the calm atmosphere with plenty of room to stretch out with our fellow parents a stark contrast to our normal daily bustle. Little Kids Town in Eppstein, Germany, serves a weekend breakfast for two. It includes two hot drinks and simple German fare for 13 euros. (Bradley Latham/Stars and Stripes) The cafe offers breakfast for two on the weekends for 13 euros. Its standard fare with coffee, a few buns and a small assortment of meats, cheese, jams and fruit. We thought it was a nice touch and a good value. My daughter enjoyed fulfilling her civic duties as a doctor, firefighter and construction worker while my son took to the streets spending most of his time driving around the assortment of Bobby cars. Im skeptical that the little utopia the children created would function as an effective society. But I didnt hear any crying, arguing or fighting among the tiny citizens during our 2 1/2 hour stay credit to the young ones, as thats far more than I can say about us grown-ups in this day and age. Children role play in the grocery store at Little Kids Town in Eppstein, Germany. (Bradley Latham/Stars and Stripes) The cafe at Little Kids Town in Eppstein, Germany, gives parents a space in which to relax while keeping an eye on their young ones playing. (Bradley Latham/Stars and Stripes) The staff members ask guests to help keep the large assortment of toys orderly during and after play. Between the staff and parents, we tried to keep the town tidy, but toddlers are toddlers, and it was mostly a futile effort. The little villagers didnt seem to mind that they might occasionally find a walkie-talkie in the grocery stores produce section or a firemans helmet in the doctors office. Our kids were worn out in the best of ways after a couple of hours and nodded off for an early afternoon nap on a quiet drive home. Any toddler parent would agree that such moments are priceless. My daughter was still talking about Little Kids Town and her new best friends days after our visit and has asked for a return trip more times than I can count. If nothing else, the little village is certainly kid-approved. The cafe at Little Kids Town in Eppstein, Germany, near Wiesbaden, offers assorted baked goods and drinks for both youngsters and adults. (Bradley Latham/Stars and Stripes) Little Kids Town Address: Hauptstrasse 97, Eppstein, Germany Hours: Monday and Wednesday, 2-6 p.m.; Thursday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed on Tuesdays. Reservations required on weekends. Prices: Kids from 1 year old, 9 euros; adults, free; drinks 3-5 euros; weekend breakfast for two, 13 euros; happy hour 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (20% off admission). Information: Phone: +49 61985879873; Email: info@littlekidstown.de; Online: littlekidstown.de Patrons at Tajimaya Coffee House in Tokyo can savor a variety of coffees, including the houses original blend and rare single-origin offerings featured as monthly specials. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) Situated on the boundary of Shinjukus Memory Lane a narrow alleyway of shabby but charming food stalls Tajimaya Coffee House stands as evidence of Tokyos enduring kissaten culture. Kissaten translates to tea-drinking shop, but includes coffee, as well. Established in 1964, this old world cafe offers coffee lovers a nostalgic retreat from the citys frantic pace, wrapping them in an atmosphere reminiscent of Japans Taisho era (1912-26). Tajimaya spans two floors. Vintage lamps toss soft light over the charming wooden interior, while shelves overflowing with antique cups and brass pots harken back to a time gone by. These details create an ambiance that inspires quiet reflection or a leisurely chat. Established in 1964, Tajimaya Coffee House offers patrons a nostalgic retreat from Tokyo's relentless pace. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) Patrons at Tajimaya Coffee House in Tokyo can savor a variety of coffees, including the houses original blend and rare single-origin offerings featured as monthly specials. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) Central to Tajimayas appeal is its commitment to the art of coffee brewing. The experience begins with the careful selection of green coffee beans, sourced globally and roasted in-house to achieve a deep, smoky flavor. Each cup is then hand-dripped through a traditional flannel cloth filter, a Japanese method that extracts the coffees essence and creates a smooth, distinctive texture. Customers can choose from more than 16 coffee varieties, including the original house blend unchanged for more than three decades and single-origin offerings such as Blue Mountain. The shop also sells its carefully roasted beans for patrons to brew at home. A selection of classic Japanese cafe fare complements the coffee lineup. The menu includes dorayaki, a Japanese confection consisting of two pancake-like castella patties wrapped around a sweet red bean paste filling. Shelves overflowing with antique cups and brass pots harken back to a time gone by at Tajimaya Coffee House in Tokyo. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) Complementing the coffee at Tajimaya Coffee House is a selection of classic Japanese cafe fare. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) At Tajimaya Coffee House in Tokyo, each cup is hand-dripped through a traditional flannel cloth filter, a Japanese method that extracts the coffees essence and creates a smooth, distinctive texture. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) This delicious treat comes from Tokiya, a nearby sweet shop thats said to have been a favorite of Fujiko Fujio, creator of the dorayaki-loving cartoon robot cat, Doraemon. A warning to those sensitive to smoke: Tajimaya permits the use of tobacco products, a nod to traditional kissaten practices that adds to its authentic atmosphere. Another heads up: Payments are accepted in cash only, reinforcing the nostalgic, analog experience. Tajimaya Coffee House Location: 1-2-6 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023 Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Last order at 10:30 p.m. Closed on New Years Day. Prices: A cup of coffee ranges from 830 yen (about $5.55) for the houses original blend to 1,830 yen for Blue Mountain. Dress: Casual Directions: A short stroll from Shinjuku Stations west exit, and just steps away from Omoide Yokocho, also known as Memory Lane. Information: Phone: 03-3342-0881; Online: tajimaya-coffeeten.com The Edo Fukagawa Museum in Tokyo reproduces the town of Fukagawa-Saga during the late Edo period. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) In quiet Koto ward, away from the neon-lit skyscrapers and frenzied pace of central Tokyo, the Fukagawa Edo Museum offers a portal to a bygone era. It costs only a few hundred yen to explore this carefully reconstructed neighborhood from the late Edo period (1603-1867) a time when samurai strolled the streets and merchants sold rice and vegetables out of wooden storefronts. Unlike a typical museum filled with mannequins and glass cases, Fukagawa Edo is interactive. Visitors are encouraged to wander its narrow alleyways, invite themselves inside a merchants home or gaze up at the towering fire watchtower. The Edo Fukagawa Museum in Tokyo reproduces the town of Fukagawa-Saga during the late Edo period. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) A wooden box holds broken dishes at Fukagawa Edo Museum in Tokyo's Koto city. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) Visitors explore the Fukagawa Edo Museum, which reproduces the Tokyo town of Fukagawa-Saga during the late Edo period. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) The tableau is completed by a boathouse and other period-accurate structures, each built using traditional methods to capture the atmosphere of shitamachi Tokyos historic downtown in the 1840s. The experience is made even more realistic by sound and lighting effects that signal the changing time of day, brightening the markets in the morning and casting long shadows in the evening. Its easy to imagine Edo-era residents haggling over fresh fish or gathering for a neighborhood event. As you explore, volunteer guides some of whom speak English are on hand to offer deeper insights into daily life during the 1840s. A visitor explores the Fukagawa Edo Museum, which reproduces the Tokyo town of Fukagawa-Saga during the late Edo period. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) Visitors explore the Fukagawa Edo Museum, which reproduces the Tokyo town of Fukagawa-Saga during the late Edo period. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) A vegetable store displays its wares at the Edo Fukagawa Museum in Tokyo. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) An Edo period garment hangs inside a row house at the Fukagawa Edo Museum in Tokyo. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) For those looking to dive into Tokyos past, Fukagawa Edo is a great substitute for the much larger Edo-Tokyo Museum, which is undergoing extensive renovations and wont reopen until next year. What Fukagawa Edo lacks in size, it makes up for with intimacy. In a city where the past and future frequently collide, Fukagawa Edo Museum offers a chance to go back in time, if only for an afternoon. On the QT Directions: A short walk from the A3 exit of Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station, accessible by the Toei Oedo and Hanzomon metro lines. 1-3-28, Shirakawa, Koto-city, Tokyo 135-0021. Times: Open daily 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last admission at 4:30 p.m. Closed on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, or the following day if a public holiday falls on those dates. Costs: 400 yen for adults; 50 yen for ages 6-18. Food: The surrounding neighborhood hosts a variety of small, local cafes and restaurants. Information: Phone: 03-3630-8625; Online: kcf.or.jp/fukagawa The Akasaka Press Center, Hardy Barracks and a U.S. Army helipad are seen from the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower observation deck in Tokyo on Nov. 8, 2024. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes) TOKYO Local officials objected to plans by U.S. Forces Japan to add a handful of new personnel to a small military compound in central Tokyo as a perpetuation of the U.S. military presence. USFJ assigned a new liaison group established in March to the Akasaka Press Center, the headquarters of Stars and Stripes 2 miles from Camp Ichigaya, the headquarters in Tokyo of Japans Ministry of Defense, according to a ministry statement Thursday. USFJ has not acknowledged the groups assignment to the secure compound in Roppongi, a district in the Minato city section of Tokyo. The command did not respond to emailed requests for comment Friday. Minato Mayor Ai Seike and Takaya Suzuki, chairman of the city assembly, complained Thursday in a letter to the defense ministry about the noise and accident risk related to the press centers heliport and asked that the press center be closed. In addition to the press building and heliport, the compound includes Hardy Barracks, an Army lodging facility. We are deeply concerned that the addition of new functions to the Akasaka Press Center will lead to perpetuation of the base, the pair wrote. However, a statement on the Minato city website said it learned from the defense ministry that no significant changes are expected at the compound. The U.S. side has explained that there are no plans for new construction or large-scale renovation of the facilities and there are no plans to deploy new assets, such as aircraft, that would affect the local area as of now, and there will be no impacts to the area, such as noise, the statement posted Thursday reads. Adding personnel to the press center is part of a restructuring of USFJ, headquartered at Yokota Air Base in western Tokyo, into a warfighting joint force headquarters. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, during a March 30 visit to Tokyo, said the restructuring is in its first phase. Posting a liaison group at the Akasaka Press Center provides USFJ a closer physical presence to the defense ministry. The USFJ restructuring is motivated in part by a need to integrate a U.S. joint force operational command with its counterpart, the Japan Joint Operations Command, established March 24. The defense ministry provided details of USFJs reorganization to Minato city on March 31, an official from the city office on U.S. military base affairs said by phone Friday. A U.S.-Japan working group will discuss further details surrounding the USFJ plan at Akasaka Press Center, according to the city statement on its website. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government was also told by the defense ministry that no new facilities, large-scale renovations or significant increases in personnel at the press center are expected, according to a March 31 statement on the metro government website. However, the metro government prefers the U.S. close the press center, since it impedes urban development and impacts surrounding residents, according to the online statement. A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II taxis on the runway at Kadena Air Base, Japan, on Jan. 13, 2025. (Tylir Meyer/U.S. Air Force) An F-35A Lightning II made a precautionary landing at Kadena Air Base on Thursday, according to the Okinawa Defense Bureau. The bureau made visual inspection and reported emergency vehicles gathered around the fighter jet at 11:55 a.m. following the landing, a bureau spokesman said by phone Thursday. The area defense bureau is an arm of Japans Ministry of Defense. The vehicles left an hour later, the spokesman said. We are confirming details with the U.S. military at the moment, he said. After receiving information, we will deal with this matter appropriately by sharing it with related municipalities, if necessary. Some Japanese government officials may speak to the press only on condition of anonymity. The aircraft landed on the bases northern runway due to an apparent oil leak, the Okinawa Times reported Thursday, citing an unnamed official with the defense ministry. Precautionary landings are standard procedure when pilots notice something out of the ordinary with their aircraft, 18th Wing spokeswoman Maj. Alli Stormer said by email Friday. She did not confirm the defense bureaus report. We are committed to conducting safe flight operations as we uphold our defense commitments, she said. The incident is the latest precautionary landing at the air base since January. A KC-135 Stratotanker made a precautionary landing on Feb. 26, the Okinawa Times reported. Two F-16 Fighting Falcons from Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., made precautionary landings, one each on Jan. 29 and Jan. 30, due to possible jammed bullets, the Ryukyu Shimpo reported at the time. An F-16 also made a precautionary landing Jan. 13 at Kadena, according to the Ryukyu Shimpo. A day earlier, an F-22 Raptor made a similar landing at the base, the newspaper reported. The 18th Wing has not confirmed those incidents. At 1 p.m. Wednesday, two F-35As diverted to Naha Airport due to inclement weather conditions, according to a wing news release. The fighters, with the Vermont Air National Guards 134th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, returned to Kadena later the same day without incident, the wing said in a follow-up statement Thursday. The 18th Wing extends our sincere thanks to the 9th Air Wing and the entire team at Naha Air Base for their exceptional support during the recent F-35 divert, wing commander Brig. Gen. Nicholas Evans said in the statement Thursday. Their professionalism and responsiveness were invaluable in ensuring the safety and well-being of our aircraft and personnel. Since beginning to phase out its F-15C/D fleet in December 2022, the wing has relied on a rotating force of fourth- and fifth-generation fighters, including F-22 Raptors, F-35 Lightning IIs and advanced F-16 Fighting Falcons to provide air defense in the Indo-Pacific. As of January, rotational forces at Kadena have included F-35As from the 134th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron; F-16C Fighting Falcons from the 77th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C.; and F-22 Raptors from the 525th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, according to the wing. Stars and Stripes reporter Keishi Koja contributed to this report. Turkeys Foreign Ministry called Israeli criticism this week provocative, aggressive and expansionist, and urged Israel to cease undermining the efforts to stabilize Syria. (Richard Andrade/International Security Assistance Force HQ Public Affairs) ISTANBUL - Israeli strikes in Syria over the past two days have opened a new flash point in the Middle East as Israel increasingly appears to take aim at Turkish interests in Syria. Israel struck several targets on Wednesday night, including military bases in Hama and Homs in western central Syria, the Israel Defense Forces said. Turkey, a NATO member state and key ally of Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, has shown an interest in a military footprint in Syria. Syrian state news agency Sana reported that the strikes on Wednesday night targeted five different areas of Syria and resulted in injuries and the near-total destruction of Hama Military Airport. At least nine people were killed in a strike in southwestern Syria, the news agency said, citing local officials. While Israel has struck other targets in Syria in recent months, this weeks attacks marked an escalation in tensions between two key regional players that have both sought to gain political leverage from the turmoil in Syria. Israels Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Thursday accused Turkey of doing their utmost to have Syria as a Turkish protectorate. Turkey has publicly signaled in the past that it is willing to take on a greater role in Syria. After a regional meeting in early last month, its Defense Ministry said that in line with the demands of the new Syrian government, Turkey continues to evaluate the establishment of bases for training purposes. It did not specify where these bases could be located - however, both Hama and Homs are locations that could host foreign troops. Turkeys Foreign Ministry called Israeli criticism this week provocative, aggressive and expansionist, and urged Israel to cease undermining the efforts to stabilize Syria. Since the fall of Bashar al-Assads regime, Israel has carried out operations deep into southern Syria, bombarded military bases and taken control of a demilitarized United Nations-patrolled buffer zone on the Syrian side of its border, citing security concerns. The Israeli strikes that killed nine people this week hit near the Israeli-Syrian border, where locals had reported clashes with Israeli forces. Turkey was seen as one of the biggest geopolitical winners when Sharaa-led militants stormed the Syrian capital of Damascus in December, ousting Assad and shocking his Russian and Iranian allies. Before Assads fall, Turkey had supported various militant groups in Syria, including factions that have fought against U.S.-backed Kurdish forces and that participated in last years offensive that toppled Assad. Now, Turkey has numerous incentives to help stabilize the interim Syrian government. Ankara hopes to speed up the return of millions of Syrian refugees at a time when Turkeys weak economy has emerged as a key political issue, and Turkish businessmen have in recent months scouted Syria for investment opportunities. Islamic State militants operating in Syria also continue to pose a threat both to Syrian and Turkish targets, and a weak Syrian central government could give rise to calls for Kurdish independence in Syria - a demand Turkey has been particularly determined to suppress. Syrias interim government has made some progress at reining in tensions with Kurdish-led forces. Governmental and Kurdish-led forces exchanged prisoners this week, Sana reported, potentially paving the way for more extensive talks between both sides. But the government around Sharaa has struggled to quell other conflicts. In the wake of coordinated attacks on its security forces, militant groups affiliated with the government deliberately targeted members of the countrys Alawite minority in early March, killing more than 100 people in the coastal city of Baniyas alone, Amnesty International found in an investigation that it published on Thursday. The attacks fed regional doubts over Sharaa. In neighboring Israel, some worry that an emboldened Syrian interim government could also curtail Israels military options. Israeli officials view Sharaa as a wolf in sheeps clothing, Yoni Ben-Menachem, a researcher at the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs, wrote in an analysis last month. He presents himself as a moderate while remaining a jihadist with an unchanged ideology, now seeking to consolidate power with Turkeys backing, he said, summarizing Israeli officials thinking. But Israels strikes in Syria this week could backfire, cautioned Omer Ozkizilcik, a Turkey-focused nonresident fellow with the Atlantic Council. In neighboring countries, they are likely to boost Ankaras arguments that a Turkish military presence could be useful. Turkey and Israel by themselves are very unlikely to resolve this, he said. It needs American mediation to find a security mechanism or arrangement between both sides. Loveday Morris in Berlin and Beril Eski in Istanbul contributed to this report. National security adviser Michael Waltz, center, explains how a reporter ended up on a group Signal chat among top officials discussing a U.S. air attack on Yemens Houthis. (John McDonnell/For The Washington Post) Members of President Donald Trumps National Security Council, including White House national security adviser Michael Waltz, have conducted government business over personal Gmail accounts, according to documents reviewed by The Washington Post and interviews with three U.S. officials. The use of Gmail, a far less secure method of communication than the encrypted messaging app Signal, is the latest example of questionable data security practices by top national security officials already under fire for the mistaken inclusion of a journalist in a group chat about high-level planning for military operations in Yemen. A senior Waltz aide used the commercial email service for highly technical conversations with colleagues at other government agencies involving sensitive military positions and powerful weapons systems relating to an ongoing conflict, according to emails reviewed by The Post. While the NSC official used his Gmail account, his interagency colleagues used government-issued accounts, headers from the email correspondence show. Waltz has had less sensitive, but potentially exploitable information sent to his Gmail, such as his schedule and other work documents, said officials, who, like others, spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe what they viewed as problematic handling of information. The officials said Waltz would sometimes copy and paste from his schedule into Signal to coordinate meetings and discussions. The use of personal email, even for unclassified materials, is risky given the premium value foreign intelligence services place on the communications and schedules of senior government officials, such as the national security adviser, experts say. NSC spokesman Brian Hughes said he has seen no evidence of Waltz using his personal email as described and said on occasions when legacy contacts have emailed him work-related materials, he makes sure to cc his government email to ensure compliance with federal records laws that require officials to archive official correspondence. Waltz didnt and wouldnt send classified information on an open account, said Hughes. When asked about a Waltz staffer discussing sensitive military matters over Gmail, Hughes said NSC staff have guidance about using only secure platforms for classified information. Waltz has also created and hosted other Signal chats with Cabinet members on sensitive topics, including on Somalia and Russias war in Ukraine, said a senior administration official. The existence of those groups was first reported by the Wall Street Journal on Sunday. Hughes said that Signal is approved and in some cases is added automatically to government devices. He acknowledged that it is not supposed to be used for classified material and insisted Waltz never used it as such. Waltzs creation of a Signal group chat that discussed sensitive information and included Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor in chief of the Atlantic and a prominent critic of President Donald Trump, has rankled the president and frustrated other Cabinet members whose communications were exposed on the chat. Publicly, Trump has strongly backed Waltz, but on Wednesday he met with Vice President JD Vance, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and others to discuss whether to keep him on. A day later, he informed aides he was not firing Waltz, but it was largely out of a desire to avoid giving the liberal media a scalp, said a senior administration official. This incident badly damaged Waltz, said the official, who noted that the national security adviser was told after the meeting that he needed to be more deferential to Wiles. The Wednesday meeting was first reported by the New York Times. Data security experts have expressed alarm that U.S. national security professionals are not more readily using the governments suite of secure encrypted systems for work communications such as JWICS, the Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System. Most concerning, however, is the use of personal email, which is widely acknowledged to be susceptible to hacking, spearfishing and other types of digital compromise. Unless you are using GPG, email is not end-to-end encrypted, and the contents of a message can be intercepted and read at many points, including on Googles email servers, said Eva Galperin, director of cybersecurity at the Electronic Frontier Foundation. National security experts have expressed alarm over the administrations denial that the leaked Signal chat contained classified information. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths comments in the Signal chat detailed the sequencing, timing and weapons systems in advance of the Trump administrations March attack on Houthi militants in Yemen, potentially jeopardizing U.S. airmen headed into harms way. In the chat, Waltz offered a brief but highly specific after-action report of the strikes, revealing that the military had positive ID of a senior Houthi leader walking into his girlfriends building - pointing to what intelligence sources would later confirm was Israeli surveillance capabilities shared with the United States. Israeli officials expressed frustration that their capabilities were made public. U.S. officials say Trump is much more upset about the inclusion of a liberal journalist on a confidential group chat than he is about exposing secrets to foreign adversaries. But White House officials have found Waltzs denials increasingly hard to believe. Waltz, who added Goldberg to the chat, told Fox News: I take full responsibility. I built the group. But he has subsequently said Goldbergs contact information was sucked into his phone somehow and that hes never met or talked to the journalist despite a newly circulated photo of the two men near each other at an event at the French ambassadors residence in Washington. Hes telling everyone that hes never met me or spoken to me. Thats simply not true, Goldberg told Meet the Press on Sunday. This isnt The Matrix. Phone numbers dont just get sucked into other phones, he added. Waltz, the first Green Beret elected to Congress and an adviser to former vice president Dick Cheney, has long pontificated about the importance of classified information and harshly criticized the Justice Department for not pursuing charges against Hillary Clinton for using a private email server as secretary of state. What did DOJ do about it? Not a damn thing, Waltz wrote on social media in June 2023. While most Trump administration officials have downplayed the Signal breach publicly, some have acknowledged it was a significant mishap. Obviously, someone made a mistake. Someone made a big mistake, Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters during a trip last week to Jamaica. Rubio and his staff, who have years of experience with classified intelligence from his former role as vice chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, are known for taking operational security seriously, said a senior U.S. official. Rubio noted that his contributions in the Signal chat were minimal. Just speaking for my role, I contributed to it twice, Rubio told reporters. I identified my point of contact, which is my chief of staff, and then later on I congratulated the members of the team. On Sunday, Trump dismissed the controversy as a politically motivated attack. I dont fire people because of fake news and because of witch hunts, he said. Hughes, the NSC spokesman, said that Mike serves at the pleasure of President Trump and the President has voiced his support for the National Security Advisor multiple times this week. While Democrats have seized on the incident as evidence of incompetence, some in the MAGA wing of the Republican Party have assailed Waltz as a George W. Bush-aligned neoconservative, circulating a video from 2016 in which he condemned Trump as a draft-dodger, saying Stop Trump now. The chattering of unnamed sources should be treated with the skepticism of gossip from people lacking the integrity to attach their names, Hughes said. A key mark in Waltzs favor is that the breach was discovered by a left-of-center media outlet and not conservative media, officials said. The one thing saving his job is that Trump doesnt want to give Jeff Goldberg a scalp, said a second administration official. Despite all of Trumps attacks on the fake news, he still reads the papers, and he doesnt like seeing this stuff. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The relations between Azerbaijan and Germany have historical roots and are currently developing within the framework of cooperation that spans a wide range of areas, political analyst Azer Garayev told Trend. According to him, the relationship between the two countries is being strengthened in political, economic, energy, social, and cultural spheres, and in particular, the visit of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Baku on April 3, 2025, marks the beginning of a new phase in these relations. "Political relations between Azerbaijan and Germany are actively developing not only within bilateral frameworks but also through various international platforms. Germany recognizes Azerbaijan's sovereignty and territorial integrity and is interested in strengthening ties with Azerbaijan within the framework of the European Union. Diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Germany were established in 1992, and high-level meetings have been held regularly since then. On April 3, 2025, during his visit to Baku, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier held meeting with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, during which they discussed the prospects of cooperation between the two countries, Azerbaijan's role in European energy security, and regional issues. Steinmeier's visit to Baku shows that Germany is highly interested in developing relations with Azerbaijan," he said. Regarding economic cooperation between the two countries, Garayev noted that Germany is one of Azerbaijan's main trading partners. "The annual trade turnover between the two countries reaches billions of euro. There is also close cooperation between Azerbaijan and Germany in the energy sector. As part of its green energy strategy, Azerbaijan intends to ensure the export of alternative energy resources to Europe, including to Germany. Azerbaijan's role in Europe's energy security has further strengthened with the increase in gas supplies, particularly within the framework of the Southern Gas Corridor project. Currently, sanctions against Russia are increasing, and new sources of energy are needed; Azerbaijan's role in this context is undoubtedly important for Europe. Europe understands this and continues to develop relations with Azerbaijan, organizing high-level visits and maintaining dialogue," he pointed out. Garayev highlighted that during a joint press statement with Frank-Walter Steinmeier the previous day, President Ilham Aliyev spoke about the development of economic cooperation between the two countries: "The head of state said: 'The results achieved in the economic sphere are certainly reassuring for us. In January and February of this year, our trade turnover increased nearly threefold. The primary reason for this has been the increase in the volume of crude oil exported from Azerbaijan to Germany. Therefore, we believe that we should take more active steps in the coming years to diversify our trade, especially in the field of renewable energy, where German companies have extensive experience and Azerbaijan has a very large program and ambitious plans. We intend to increase the production of renewable energy to 6 gigawatts by 2030 through foreign investments, and this goal is quite realistic. Part of this volume will be exported to Europe. The analyst noted that cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Germany are also developing dynamically. "Special attention was also drawn to Frank-Walter Steinmeier's visit to Icherisheher and his familiarization with Azerbaijan's rich historical and cultural heritage during his visit to Baku. This can be seen as an indication of the importance that the President of Germany attaches to Azerbaijan's cultural heritage," he emphasized. Regarding Germany's position on the former Karabakh conflict, Garayev pointed out that while official Berlin recognizes Azerbaijan's territorial integrity, it has long taken a more neutral stance on the issue of conflict resolution. "After Azerbaijan fully restored its sovereignty following the Second Karabakh War in 2020, Germany stated that it supports peace and stability in the region. However, from time to time, there has been criticism from certain German political circles regarding Azerbaijan's just position. However, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, in his recent press statement, clarified Germany's position on this matter. The German President said, "We know and recognize that the Karabakh region is Azerbaijani territory." This shows that Germany is accepting the new realities and the just position of Azerbaijan," the analyst reminded. He noted that President Ilham Aliyev and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier also discussed the peace agreement project between Azerbaijan and Armenia. "In response to a question from a DPA news agency correspondent, President Ilham Aliyev mentioned that he had sufficiently informed his counterpart on this issue and thoroughly explained Azerbaijan's position on this matter. The head of state said: " Real negotiations essentially started about a year ago. To date, the wording of the peace agreement consisting of 17 paragraphs has been fully agreed upon. Azerbaijan has not put forward any additional conditions here. Our conditions are clear to Armenia and they are not new. We have been putting forward these conditions for a long time. However, we have not received any serious response from the Armenian side to date. What exactly are they? First, the OSCE Minsk Group must be dissolved. The logic behind this is that the OSCE Minsk Group, which was established in 1992, was mandated to resolve the Karabakh conflict. Azerbaijan has resolved the Karabakh conflict itself on the basis of the UN Charter and within the framework of international law. Since the conflict has been resolved and Armenia officially recognizes Karabakh as Azerbaijani territory, there are no grounds for the de jure operation of the OSCE Minsk Group. This group was not operating de facto anyway. The fact that Armenia does not agree to this raises a legitimate suspicion in us. I wonder why. Does Armenia perhaps want to put forward territorial claims against us again? Their rapid armament, the acquisition of lethal weapons, and the fact that France, their main supporter in this, incites them to new provocations increase these doubts, of course. So this is the first issue. The second issue is related to the constitution of Armenia. The constitution of Armenia contains a reference to the act of independence of Armenia. It is an integral part of the constitution. There is a provision on the unification of the legal and historical territory of Azerbaijan with Armenia, and this is considered an explicit territorial claim against us. Therefore, the removal of this clause from the constitution of Armenia is our legitimate demand. Once these two conditions are met, there will be no obstacle to signing the peace treaty. As they say, the ball is in Armenia's court. If Armenia is genuinely interested in signing the peace treaty, it has to accept these two legitimate conditions of Azerbaijan." According to Garayev, President Steinmeier also expressed his views on the matter. "He noted that anyone who has observed this conflict, its escalation and the suffering has caused, as well as the wars that have caused so many victims over the past three decades, can understand that it takes a lot of time and effort to resolve such a conflict, as well as restore mutual trust between the parties. The German President said, " I mentioned this earlier, and I know that great efforts are required after such conflicts. I also respect these efforts because the wording of the agreement has already been developed. It is a huge task to reach an agreement at this time. I do hope that, in addition to that, there will also be agreement on the conditions President Aliyev has just mentioned. In my opinion, they should not become an obstacle to achieving lasting peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Let me repeat that there is a very important determination, an important moment has arrived, and it would be irresponsible to miss it. It is necessary to remember that the experience of both Germany and Europe shows that the preparation of the agreement and its implementation are the first step. Then, for the agreement to actually come into force, for it to turn into a true reconciliation, it takes several generations. This is a very long process. The implementation of a reliable reconciliation will require a lot of time from both countries and people. Therefore, it is impossible to ignore the fact that this reconciliation will take a long time. But the first step is the preparation, signing, ratification, entry into force, and implementation of the agreement. Then other problems can be solved. I do hope this will happen soon." Speaking about the future of Azerbaijan-Germany relations, the analyst noted that the prospects are quite broad. "The expansion of cooperation is expected, particularly in the fields of energy, 'green' technologies, industry, and education. Azerbaijan is a reliable partner for Germany in the region, and these relations may deepen based on mutually beneficial cooperation. Frank-Walter Steinmeiers visit to Baku, his meeting with President Ilham Aliyev, and his interest in the countrys cultural heritage will make an important contribution to the development of ties between the two countries. Azerbaijans relations with Germany are of particular importance not only within the framework of bilateral cooperation but also in the context of relations with the European Union. In this regard, ties between the two countries may become even stronger in the future and rise to the level of a strategic partnership," Garayev concluded. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Air Force Gen. Timothy Haugh, commander of U.S. Cyber Command and director of the National Security Agency, awaits questioning on March 25, 2025, during a Senate Committee on Intelligence hearing. Haugh was fired Thursday, April 3, 2025. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes) WASHINGTON The abrupt firing of the general in charge of U.S. Cyber Command and the National Security Agency drew sharp condemnation on Friday from lawmakers, mostly Democrats, who oversee defense and the intelligence community. Air Force Gen. Timothy Haugh was removed from his job on Thursday, reportedly at the urging of Laura Loomer, a far-right activist who convinced President Donald Trump to fire several staff on his National Security Council this week. The inexplicable overnight firing of General Haugh, a leader of talent and integrity, should leave us all feeling less safe today, said Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., a former Air Force officer and a member of the House Armed Services Committee. Haugh was unanimously confirmed by the Senate in December 2023 for his dual role as commander of Cyber Command, which oversees cyberspace operations, and director of the National Security Agency, the wiretapping and cyber espionage service. He previously served as a top deputy at Cyber Command during former President Joe Bidens administration. Loomer seemed to take credit for Haughs ouster in a post on X, writing he had been disloyal to President Trump and had no place serving in the administration because he had been chosen for the job by now retired Army Gen. Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff who clashed with Trump. Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., called Loomers involvement in Haughs firing outrageous. She also touted the removal of Haughs deputy at the National Security Agency, Wendy Noble. Laura Loomer, a 9/11 truther, has no place anywhere near the White House, Bennet wrote on X. The inmates are running the asylum. Haughs dismissal followed the removal of several top officers from their posts in recent months, including Air Force Gen. Charles CQ Brown, the former Joint Chiefs chairman, Adm. Lisa Franchetti, the chief of naval operations, and the commandant of the Coast Guard, Adm. Linda Fagan. Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said he was alarmed and angered by Haughs termination and said it appeared to reinforce a pattern of firing military officers as a political loyalty test. In addition to the other military leaders and national security officials Trump has fired, he is sending a chilling message throughout the ranks: dont give your best military advice or you may face consequences, he said. Reed described Haugh as one of the most skilled, accomplished officers in the military and said Trumps purge of competent national security leadership has given a priceless gift to China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. Instead of listening to U.S. Cyber Command, Trump is listening to conspiracy theorists, he said. He is making our country less safe. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., a former Air Force officer, also praised Haugh, saying he was doing a superb job at Cyber Command and the National Security Agency and his firing will set back cyber and intelligence operations. He was fired with no public explanation, Bacon said. Rep. John Garamendi, D-Calif., a member of the House Armed Services Committee, and Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, encouraged Republicans to speak out about the dismissal, though most did not. Stand up for at least the U.S. military, Slotkin, a former CIA analyst who served three tours in Iraq, said in a speech on the Senate floor. [Our military is] being treated like trash by Donald Trump, by everyone in this chamber who doesnt stand up. Democrats on Friday said they were outraged to see the White House target Haugh while taking no action to hold top national security officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, responsible for recently discussing military plans using a commercial group chat. It is astonishing that President Trump would fire the nonpartisan, experienced leader of the NSA while still failing to hold any member of his team accountable for leaking classified information on a commercial messaging app, said Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee. Houlahan said the public was owed an explanation. The American people deserve answers now, including why General Haugh was relieved of his duties, she said. The case is not closed. Alexis Byrne (20) also hit a second woman with her fists A young woman armed herself with a wheel brace and struck another over the head in a row over a boy, a court heard. Alexis Byrne (20) also hit a second woman with her fists. A garda gave evidence that Byrne was waiting outside the victims house when she arrived home after work, having received a lift home from the second victim. Judge David McHugh imposed a three-month sentence suspended for two years. The defendant, of Harcourt Lodge, Inchicore, admitted seriously assaulting Shauna Heffernan, and assaulting Katie Ireland during an incident in Newcastle, Co Dublin, on December 14, 2023. Byrne also admitted producing a black metal wheel brace during the course of an assault. Blanchardstown District Court heard the DPP had directed summary disposal in the district court on a guilty plea only. Sergeant Aidan Carroll said the defendant and Ms Heffernan had been in a personal dispute for some time. On the day in question, Ms Heffernan had asked a friend, Ms Ireland, to drop her home from work, following communications she had received from Byrne, which had left her in fear. Sgt Carroll said the two victims stopped outside Ms Heffernans home, and Byrne was in a car waiting for her. Sgt Carroll said there was an argument between the women, and Byrne went to the boot of her car, took out a wheel brace and struck Ms Heffernan on the head. Ms Heffernan suffered lacerations to the head, and had to go to hospital, where her head injuries had to be glued. Sgt Carroll said Byrne also hit Ms Ireland with her fists a number of times. One of the women provided a victim-impact statement, in which she said the assault left her profoundly upset. The court heard the defendant had never been in trouble before. Defence solicitor Simon Fleming said Byrne, who was only 18 at the time of the assaults, had written letters of apology to the victims, and had 1,000 compensation in court. Mr Fleming said this incident arose over a dispute about a boy. As far as Byrne was concerned, the matters were all behind her now, and the injured parties did not need to fear any further incidents, Mr Fleming said. Judge McHugh said the assault on Ms Heffernan was of an appalling nature, and he ordered she receive 600, not as compensation, but as a concrete expression of the defendants remorse. Judge McHugh said Ms Ireland should receive 400. As part of the suspended sentence, Judge McHugh further ordered that Byrne was to have no contact with the victims. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. On April 4, the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting were held at the Gulustan Palace in Baku, Trend reports. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the event. Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijans Minister of Energy, said: - Your Excellency, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, dear Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Mr. Dan Jrgensen, distinguished ministers, dear guests, ladies and gentlemen. It's my great honor to welcome you to the 11th Ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. This gathering marks yet another significant milestone in our successful efforts to strengthen the synergy between energy security and energy transition within this framework. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, for his steadfast leadership and unwavering support in driving this success. It's now my distinct privilege to invite His Excellency, President Ilham Aliyev, to deliver the keynote address. x x x The President of Azerbaijan addressed the event. Speech by President Ilham Aliyev - Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, dear guests. I welcome you all to Azerbaijan. A special welcome to our guest from Brussels. Mr. Commissioner, welcome. This is the first time you are participating in this event. But as we all know, and as I already said, it is the eleventh time that the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council has gathered in Baku. Initiated by Azerbaijan and supported by the European Commission, this important gathering has played a crucial role in elaborating approaches to energy security, addressing the issues of energy security, and coordinating our joint efforts. And today, while we had a family photo procedure, I said that we will probably need more space for that because the team is growing. And this is a very good sign of our cooperation. The more time passes, the more countries and companies are involved in the process, united with a common goal. First, to strengthen cooperation, because without cooperation none of the energy security projects would be possible. And second, to provide energy security for themselves, their neighbors, and their partners. I think the very positive spirit of partnership and cooperation that unites us is a clear demonstration of our responsibility the responsibility of producers, transitors, and consumers. Of course, the balance of interests between the three major actors of this process, with the support of international financial institutions, made our story or stories success stories. Countries, their governments, investors, companies, and leading international financial institutions this is our team, and the team is growing. It is clear today, more than ever before, that energy security is an integral part of the national security of countries. I would also say that today we can also talk about industrial security, because in order to develop industries, we need energy resources, we need petrochemicals, we need fertilizers. And Azerbaijan is a producer and exporter of crude oil, natural gas, oil products, petrochemicals, and fertilizers. And our energy company, SOCAR, is involved in upstream, downstream, and midstream activities in Azerbaijan and outside our boundaries. Azerbaijan, for many years, was and will be a reliable partner. And as high representatives of the European Commission noted, Azerbaijan is a reliable partner in the field of energy and a pan-European gas supplier. This is true. The geography of our gas supply is growing. Since our last meeting here in Baku, at the 10th Advisory Council, five more countries have become recipients of our natural gas. Today, Azerbaijan supplies natural gas to 12 countries 10 of them are European, and eight of those are members of the European Union. The geography of our gas supply in Europe will definitely grow, because today we are already involved in the creation of gas distribution networks in some European countries. Some of them do not have one, some of them need to expand it, and Azerbaijan, as an investor, is planning to do that. So, the geography of our gas supplies will definitely grow through different ways, including interconnectors. Of course, we need to think about joint efforts in the expansion of the existing gas pipeline system. The Southern Gas Corridor is a tremendous success story for all of us. The 3,500-kilometer integrated pipeline system today is the main artery for energy security for many countries. And now it is working at full capacity. Whether its the South Caucasus Pipeline, TANAP, or TAP three integral parts of the Southern Gas Corridor all are fully packed. So we need to expand. And for that, we will need, of course, financing. And we come to a very important point, which we have raised on several occasions that international financial institutions, those who decided to stop financing fossil fuel projects, will probably reconsider their policy, especially taking into account the huge geopolitical changes that we all witness. Because without that, any further investments in transportation infrastructure and even in upstream will be very problematic. We have great experience in combining corporate financing and borrowed money, which made it possible to implement huge projects of production and transportation. ACG, Shahdeniz, Absheron these are oil and gas fields which today provide energy security for many countries. And many more oil and gas fields will be operational within several years. So, contracts have been signed. The working program has been approved. Construction of pipelines also the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan and Baku-Supsa oil pipelines, as well as the Southern Gas Corridor all that was done in cooperation, as I said, by all the actors. So, when the policy to stop financing fossil fuel projects is introduced, it sends a signal to investors, to companies, to countries, which is not positive. So, I think this is an important moment, which will probably be discussed. We hope that, despite a very ambitious green agenda in Europe, fossil fuel producers and fossil fuel as an important factor of energy security will not be forgotten and will not be discriminated. Actually, that was our message at COP29 when Azerbaijan hosted this global international event that there should be no discrimination, there should be no dividing lines between countries rich in fossil fuels and those who dont have them. On the contrary, countries rich in fossil fuels that invest in renewables must be praised, not attacked. So, I think that if this important issue is addressed, it will make the lives of producers easier. At the same time, the long-term contracts process is also important. Because we all know that energy projects oil and gas need a lot of investments, and you recover investments over many years. By the way, until today, what we invested in the Southern Gas Corridor as a country has still not been recovered. We still have not reached the zero balance. Therefore, we must be sure that our gas will be needed in Europe, which is our main market, for many more years. If we dont have this guarantee, investors will not invest, and the country will not invest. So there will be a big shortage of natural gas. Our reserves are known. We expect new production from new fields this year primarily from the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli Deep Gas Structure. And also, we are, I think, in the final stage of reaching an agreement about the expansion of production from the Absheron Field, moving to Phase 2, which will add a minimum of 3 BCM to the existing 1.5. So, all of this is possible, but it requires, as I said, these two important factors physical transportation infrastructure through interconnectors and through expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, and reliable forecasts and reliable partnership. Because in a partnership, all sides must be reliable. With respect to our green agenda, as I said, we managed to combine these two important factors, satisfying the needs of our consumers. By the way, since Azerbaijan and the European Commission signed a declaration on strategic partnership in the field of energy, our gas supply to Europe has increased by almost 60%. That declaration was signed by the President of the European Commission and myself in mid-2022. In 2021, our gas supply to Europe was about 8 BCM. Last year, it was almost 13. So, it is more than half of our total export, which is 25 BCM, and which will grow. So, it is a substantial amount already today. Taking into account our plans to engage new fields and also to increase production from existing gas fields, we will definitely have much more gas for our consumers. If we add our green agenda, which will save us a lot of natural gas, we can imagine that Azerbaijan will play an even more important role for our partners with respect to energy security. Today, already signed contracts with our investors on Solar and Wind Power stations will allow us to have, by 2030, 6 GW of solar and wind energy. As I said, that will save a lot of natural gas, which we currently use to produce electricity domestically, and all of that will be available for export. We are actively developing this ourselves with our own investments. Regarding hydropower potential today in the territories liberated from Armenian occupation East Zangezur and Karabakh we have already installed 270 megawatts of hydropower stations. More than 30 small hydropower stations have already been inaugurated, and in the next maximum five years, this number will grow up to 500 megawatts, with an additional 30 small hydropower stations. So, that will eventually, by 2030, create an energy potential of 6.5 gigawatts. And just for your information, today Azerbaijans installed capacity is slightly more than eight. So, we will almost double our potential to produce energy from renewables within the next five years. Of course, today I'm sure that at the session of the Green Energy Advisory Council, the green cable from Azerbaijan to Europe will also be discussed. As far as I was informed, the feasibility study of that project is in the final stage. So, after it is fully completed, the practical negotiations will definitely start again with respect to financing. Of course, we can anticipate that there will be no restrictions on financing the green energy project. But I think it will be important to upgrade these projects within European institutions to projects of common interest because that is what they are. So, I will probably conclude now by once again expressing deep satisfaction with the results we have achieved through the active format of our cooperation. Yes, we gather once a year in Baku, but throughout the year there are numerous events, meetings, conferences, and bilateral and multilateral partnership formats, which actually create the synergy. And, as always at the Advisory Council, we review what has been done during the last year and plan our future steps. I wish both councils success. x x x Parviz Shahbazov: Mr. President, we are extremely grateful for your invaluable remarks. The Advisory Council, established through your visionary initiative, has evolved into a vital platform for enhancing energy security both regionally and globally. Your consistent guidance on diversification, encompassing both routes and sources, has now, as you mentioned, branched out into the green energy initiatives, enhancing the Council's role as the cornerstone of our remarkable collaboration. We deeply appreciate your continued support and extend our heartfelt thanks. With the permission, I now turn to EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Mr. Dan Jrgensen, who begins his tenure as a co-chair of the Advisory Council at a pivotal time. We look forward to working closely together and wish him success in this important mission. Mr. Jrgensen, the floor is yours. x x x Speech by Commissioner Dan Jrgensen - Thank you so much and let me start, Mr. President, by thanking you for your leadership, not only in today's Councils but also for your personal commitment to the very close friendship and partnership with the European Union. This is highly appreciated, and I want to thank you so much for that. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I am delighted to be here today, and I want to thank you all for participating. I want to convey a special thanks to Minister Shahbazov for your good cooperation with the EU Commission over the last years. Now, three years ago, Russia's brutal and illegal invasion of Ukraine and its weaponization of energy upended the fundamentals of our energy market, causing a tremendous shift in Europe's energy system. In these challenging times, Azerbaijan reinforced its role as a trusted energy partner for the EU. Gas started flowing from Azerbaijan to Europe through the Southern Gas Corridor in 2020. And as you know, President von der Leyen came here two years ago to sign a strategic partnership in the field of energy with you, Mr. President. Our partnership with Azerbaijan and our cooperation on the Southern Gas Corridor were essential in our efforts to diversify our gas supply and to reduce our resilience on Russian gas. In the coming years, we expect pipeline gas from Azerbaijan to play an important role in the EU energy system during our transition to net zero. In this sense, we welcome efforts to expand trading capacity. The Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council is an important part of such efforts to oversee the operation of the corridor, tackle methane emissions from the oil and gas sector, and promote energy efficiency, renewable deployment, and electricity grid development. But our work is not just about meeting the challenges of today. It is about charting a path towards our future. And that is why we are working to establish a green energy corridor between the South Caucasus and the European Union. There are various concrete ideas using different technologies and different routes. It remains to be seen how the most promising ideas could combine and develop into a proper green energy corridor. There is enormous potential for a good spirit of cooperation and high interests from all sides. As stated by President von der Leyen, we encourage an inclusive approach to ensure that the entire region benefits from this project. This will be an important topic today at our third Green Energy Advisory Council. It will also be an opportunity to discuss progress in the initiatives championed by Azerbaijan during its COP Presidency last year. In particular, I refer to the Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge, with targets of achieving 1,500 gigawatts in energy storage capacity and 25 million kilometres of grid infrastructure by 2030. These initiatives bolster our global pledge to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency gains worldwide by 2030. And they provide inspiration as we prepare new and ambitious nationally determined contributions ahead of COP30 in Brazil. Let me also highlight the Global Methane Pledge, which Azerbaijan joined last year, thereby becoming one of 160 countries committed to cutting global methane emissions by 30% by 2030. I appreciate that Azerbaijan has contributed to further elevate this issue at COP29. Implementation will be key, but Azerbaijan has become a global example of the positive effects of methane emission abatement, particularly in the energy sector. Similarly, with SOCAR having joined the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0, Azerbaijan is well on track to significantly abate its methane emissions from the energy sector and reach compliance with the EU methane regulation. As you know, avoiding methane loss is one of the most efficient measures to tackle the threat of climate change. It also increases the volume of gas available for domestic markets and for exports. As an important element of our strategic partnership in the field of energy, the EU is keen to continue exploring innovative approaches to accelerate progress in this field and to showcase the progress we are making together. In all our countries, developing domestic production of renewable energy can help save natural gas, ensure access to low-cost electricity, and boost industrial competitiveness. In the case of Azerbaijan in particular, efforts on energy efficiency and renewable energy have the potential to make significantly more gas available for the export markets in the coming years. The EU stands ready to step up cooperation with Azerbaijan to develop its tremendous potential, including with offshore wind power technology in the Caspian Sea. On our side, in the last five-year term, EU legislators completed all the new measures to deliver on our Green Deal agenda and REPowerEU strategy, including more ambitious energy efficiency and renewable energy targets for 2030. Under the new Commission, we will focus on implementation. Last month, we presented a Clean Industrial Deal and an Affordable Energy Action Plan that will help us to deliver cheap, secure, and sustainable energy for our households and businesses by fast-tracking the clean transition, building a more connected energy union, and making our gas markets fairer and more competitive. We want to deliver not just for Europe but for the world. As we step up the pace to meet our 2030 targets, it is not just about climate action. It is about economic opportunity, energy security, and affordability. I am confident if we lead our people, invest in them, and bring them on board with a just transition, we can create history and secure our future. In conclusion, Your Excellency, ministers, ambassadors, ladies and gentlemen, to deliver energy security for our citizens and to drive the energy transition for our future, we need to develop strong energy partnerships with each other. The EU looks forward to working together with Azerbaijan and other international partners to accelerate our work, strengthen our industrial bases, and put our economies on a path toward climate neutrality by 2050. Together, let's enhance our energy security, unleash renewable energy investments, and promote trade across our markets. Thank you again, Your Excellency, for welcoming us today and steering our exchanges. I look forward to a very interesting and inspiring day. x x x Parviz Shahbazov: Commissioner Jrgensen, thank you very much for an insightful speech. With your co-chairmanship, we hope that the energy dialogue between Azerbaijan and the EU will continue to develop and yield good results. This concludes our opening session. Mr. President, thank you very much for being with us today. x x x A total of 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, seven international financial institutions, and 42 energy companies participated in the meeting. The event was attended by ministers, deputy ministers, and other high-level representatives. After the opening session, the meeting proceeded with three plenary sessions - Ministerial Session, Southern Gas Corridor Session: Progress and Next Steps in Successful Operation and Development of Southern Gas Corridor Plenary Session and Green Energy Projects and Green Energy Corridors Plenary Session. Under the framework of the Advisory Council, the second Ministers' Meeting on the transmission and trade of green energy between Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Georgia, and Bulgaria was held. An informal Steering Committee/Ministers' Meeting on the Caspian-Black Sea-European Green Energy Corridor also took place, alongside a roundtable on the development of offshore wind energy between Azerbaijan and the European Union. During the event, several documents aimed at enhancing cooperation in the energy sector were signed. The ministerial meetings under the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council have been held regularly since February 2015. They were charged with unlawful possession of 100 kilos of cannabis worth 2m and having the drugs for sale or supply The DPP decided that three men will face Circuit Court trial after the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) intercepted a van carrying 2m of suspected cannabis in Dublin last year. Gary Hanley, 36, from North Great Clarence Street, Dublin 1, who is on disability benefit, Sean Mackey, 54, a casino croupier of Blessington Street, Dublin 7, but originally from South Africa, and Jie Liu, a food delivery driver formerly of Cedar Grove, Swords, Co. Dublin, were arrested on February 22, 2024. They were charged with unlawful possession of 100 kilos of cannabis worth 2m and having the drugs for sale or supply. Mr Liu alone had additional charges for possessing a further 1m worth of cannabis, MDMA, amphetamines and ketamine at an apartment in West End Villas, Blanchardstown, Dublin 14, allegedly leased by him. Directions in the case had been delayed while the GNDOCB officers waited for analysis of the seizure to be completed. The case resumed at Blanchardstown District Court today when Judge David McHugh noted the DPP has authorised that the three men will face "trial on indictment". He ordered them to appear again on June 17 to be served with books of evidence and returned for trial to the Circuit Court. Earlier, Detective Garda Dean Healy had said they could face more serious charges and the case related to "large scale drug distribution". At their first court appearance on February 24, it was alleged that Gary Hanley drove to Blanchardstown Shopping Centre in a Hyundai Tucson and met two other vehicles. Mr Mackey was allegedly in a Toyota Corolla, and Mr Liu drove an Opel Vivaro van. After a short interaction, the detective claimed they drove to Athboy Co. Meath, where phones were exchanged. At the contested bail hearing, it was said that they drove back to Dublin in a "close proximity" convoy but were intercepted on the N3 northbound. About 100 kilos of cannabis worth 2m were recovered in the van allegedly driven by Mr Liu. The court had heard that Gary Hanley's car was stopped a short distance away, and he allegedly locked the doors as gardai approached and that it was claimed he began to "smash" a phone. It was alleged an additional 1m worth of various drugs following a search at the apartment rented by Liu in Blanchardstown. Mr Hanley and Mr Mackey's solicitor had described the evidence against them as circumstantial. Mr Liu's lawyer had submitted that his client was now an Irish national, no longer had Chinese citizenship, and had no means of fleeing. Director Jossy Akwuobi had 2019 conviction Tusla has repeatedly refused to answer when it became aware that the owner of a firm it paid 10m to run accommodation for vulnerable children in care was a convicted fraudster. Ideal Care Ltd, which operated emergency accommodation for vulnerable children was recently convicted over using altered Garda vetting forms and fake references for their staff. Karen Akwuobi, a director for the company, was also convicted under child care legislation and given a six-month suspended sentence. The company was set by Akwuobis husband, Pastor Jossy Akwuobi, in August 2018 and Tusla told the Sunday World that they paid his company 10m between October 2018 and December 2023. Jossy Akwuobi was a director of the company from August 2018 until March 1, 2020 when his wife replaced him as a director, but he stayed on as company secretary and majority owner, company documents show. His wife resigned as a director this week. The Sunday World revealed earlier this month that Jossy Akwuobi was a convicted insurance fraudster who was ordered to complete 200 hours of community service in lieu of four months prison when he was sentenced at Dublin District Court in July 2019, by which stage Tusla had been paying his firm for nine months. Tusla continued to pay his company millions after his conviction. The Sunday World has been seeking comment for over two weeks from Tusla on whether it knew Jossy Akwuobi was a fraudster when it was paying his firm. Tusla did not answer those questions but said: During registration as a residential centre the relevant checks are carried out in relation to the proposed proprietor of the centre and those providing the service. Jossy Akwuobi was not listed as a director of the childrens residential services provided by Ideal Care and had no involvement with the direct care of children placed in their service, the spokesperson said. However, he was the majority owner of the company and remains so today, signing-off on annual accounts as recently as earlier this month. He has also describes himself online as operation director of Ideal Care Responding to further queries, the Tusla spokesperson said: At the time of applying for registration for a childrens residential centre in 2022, Jossy Akwuobi was not listed as the proprietor of the childrens residential centre provided by Ideal Care Services. For other services provided, Ideal Care Services were required to carry out relevant Garda checks and provide information relating to all staff involved in the provision of care to children, on which Tusla carried out compliance checks. The spokesperson once again refused to answer whether Tusla was aware of his fraud convictions when paying his firm 10m. We have nothing further to add to our previous response, the spokesperson said. The Sunday World first put questions to Tusla on the matter more than two weeks ago. Earlier that same week we asked Jossy Akwuobi for comment on the case and he said: How is it very serious? He was also a director of a care agency in England which was reprimanded by authorities for numerous issues, including that they did not follow safe recruitment procedures, and care workers were not sufficiently vetted to ensure they were suitable to support people who used the service. He declined to comment on the UK matter and on his insurance fraud conviction and said his wife didnt want to comment on the Irish case. Akwuobi initially set up Ideal Care Homes Ltd in 2018 with Clondalkin businessman James Webb. Akwuobi initially controlled 60pc of the firm and Webb controlled 40pc. Webb resigned as a director in 2019 and Akwuobis share in the company later increased from 60pc to 100pc. Webb was not involved in Ideal Care Homes by the time it was using altered garda vetting and fake references. In 2019, Webb set up another firm, Barrog Healthcare which also provides services for vulnerable children and young adults and has been paid more than 21m by Tusla since 2019. It emerged earlier this year that Webb paid almost 223,000 to a liquidator to settle claims he misappropriated cash from a previous employer, which also provided care services to vulnerable teenagers. The settlement was made by James Webb, from Clondalkin in Dublin, without admission of any wrongdoing. He previous worked for Intensive Community Programmes (ICP), which collapsed into liquidation, leaving creditors with a deficit of close to 1m. The Irish Independent reported in January that the High Court disqualified ICP owner Bernard Morrin from acting as a company director for 12 years after liquidator John Healy, of Kirby Healy Chartered Accountants, found transfers and cash withdrawals exceeding 700,000 were made for the benefit of him and his family. In an affidavit opened in court, the liquidator also claimed a former manager at the company, who he did not name, misappropriated 354,029 through a widely abused petty cash system This cash was paid by Mr Morrin into an account held personally by the manager, the liquidator said. Sums were then withdrawn from that account and receipts were to be provided to the company to vouch that any expenditure was bona fide. But Mr Healy said his investigation found considerable funds were used for personal expenditure. This, he said, included transfers to the managers wife and daughter, family holidays, including to Banna Beach Resort in Co Kerry, financing for his vehicle, alcohol and lottery tickets, and shopping trips to premium outlets, including Kildare Village and Best Menswear. The liquidator said other items of personal expenditure included the payment of utility bills for the mans home in Clondalkin, Dublin, takeaway meals, expensive meals regularly involving alcohol at restaurants and hotels, gym memberships, grocery shopping in supermarkets near his home, and expenses associated with his dog, including the cost of kennels and pet food. In the affidavit, Mr Healy said he issued proceedings under the Companies Act to recoup the money, but these were settled on confidential terms in advance of a hearing. The proceeds were paid into the liquidation. While Mr Healy did not name James Webb in the affidavit, company filings and correspondence to creditors reveal Mr Webb was the manager in question. The female attacker crossed the road with her dog and slashed the man open A vicious a seemingly-unprovoked attack took place on Dublins Talbot Street on Thursday evening and left the victim with blood gushing from his head. The shocking CCTV footage shows the female attacker walking across the road with her dog before launching the sick and brutal attack slashing the victims head with a weapon. As he and his pals stood there stunned, the woman continued to shout abuse at him as his head opened up and poured out on the path. The assault took place just before 6pm as passersby were heading home for the evening. The disgraceful incident is the latest attack to take place on the notorious street, and happened just yards from where American tourist Stephen Termini suffered horrific injuries in July 2023. Just last September an appalling gang brawl took place on the corner of Talbot Street and James Joyce Street. And back in March of this year CCTV caught a vicious machete attack on the same street which instigate the Government approved facelift of the busy street. Remarkably, the street in Dublins inner city has just undergone a 2m overhaul as the Government attempted to convince Dubliners that the streets are safe. But this horror attack in broad daylight is the latest that has seen the capitals streets deemed unsafe to use. When SundayWorld.com contacted An Garda Siochana they revealed they were unaware of the incident The trio admitted to being part of an organised crime gang who gardai believe are heavily involved in thefts and internet scams. Three members of a Romanian gang have pleaded guilty to a spate of ATM cash-trapping offences during a 10-day crime spree. The trio admitted to being part of an organised crime gang who gardai believe are heavily involved in thefts and internet scams. Niall speaks to Irish Independent crime correspondent Ken Foy about how international fraud gangs are moving cash out of Ireland. MORE EPISODES John OConnor Jr was named by the Bureau in a new case launched in the High Court last month. John Jnr (left) and Jonathan OConnor at court this week A paving contractor who was jailed in Sweden over a massive 4m tax scam is now being targeted in Ireland by the Criminal Assets Bureau. John OConnor Jr was named by the Bureau in a new case launched in the High Court last month. Niall speaks to the Sunday Worlds Eamon Dillon about how OConnor and three of his brothers were relentlessly pursued by Swedish police in 2020. MORE EPISODES In part two of the interview, he recalls how the investigation proceeded and how Linda Mulhall eventually confessed to murder. They were dubbed the Irish 'Scissor Sisters' after they were accused of murdering and dismembering their mother's boyfriend in a case so gruesome it still stands out today. Charlotte and Linda Mulhall stabbed and chopped up Farah Swaleh Noor after a night out with mum Kathleen turned into murder and mayhem. But how were they caught and how did investigators eventually solve the mysterious case? Nicola speaks with retired Chief Superintendent Christy Mangan, who headed up the case. In part one of the interview, he recalls the day he was contacted with news that there were body parts in a Dublin canal and the subsequent battle he had to identify the victim. MORE EPISODES The mob are heavily involved in street dealing across Blanchardstown, Corduff and parts of Finglas and have been involved in violent feuds with rivals criminals. A close female associate of Jason Hennessy Sr is due in court this morning after being charged by gardai investigating an organised crime gang. The woman, who is in her 50s, is due to appear before Blanchardstown District Court later this morning. She was one of three female associates of gun victim Jason Hennessy Sr arrested following raids on Thursday. A garda spokesman said the two other women, aged in their 20s and 30s, remain in custody. The trio were held after armed officers raided a home in West Dublin as gardai continue to crackdown on the drugs dang. The mob are heavily involved in street dealing across Blanchardstown, Corduff and parts of Finglas and have been involved in violent feuds with rivals criminals. During the search, gardai said they seized cash, multiple mobile phones and three high-powered scrambler motorcycles. It is suspected the gang have been using scrambler bikes in their street dealing operation across North Dublin A garda spokesman said several XL Bully dogs were removed from the residence. The three women arrested are all associates of murder victim Jason Hennessy Sr who was shot dead in a restaurant in Blanchardstown on Christmas Eve 2023. Gardai outside Brownes Steakhouse Dad-of-ten Hennessy Snr was gunned down in Brownes Steakhouse in front of his family and friends by gunman Tristan Sherry Sherry (26) was overpowered at the scene and fatally injured. In February, six men were convicted in connection with the killing of hitman Sherry Hennessy Sr was a key member of the drugs gang targeted in yesterdays raids. A garda spokesman said the raids were "part of ongoing investigations into the activities of an organised crime group in West Dublin. He said: Gardai conducted a search of a residential property in Corduff, Dublin 15, on Thursday, 3rd April, 2025. The operation was led by Gardai from the Drugs Unit, Crime Task Force and Detectives, Serious Crime North, DMR with support from the Emergency Response Unit (ERU) and other local units. Investigations are ongoing. "He had a great life in Australia until this happened. He will always be remembered by our family and friends" Ethel and Dermot Conlon speaking to RTE News about their son Damien The mother of Damien Conlon who was shot dead by his fiancee's father in Australia said she couldn't stop crying" when his murderer was convicted. Ethel Conlon said she cried my eyes out with happiness when Justice Sarah McNaughton handed down the 31-year prison sentence to Luke Simon. The 59-year-old army veteran killed Mr Conlon (38) from Sligo, at his home in Oberon, New South Wales, on 9 February 2023. Saying she was delighted that her son got justice, Ms Conlon added: He deserved it. "We all miss him, she told RTE News. The smiles, the laughing, the jokes he used to play on us. He was always a good worker around the town Damien Conlon "He had a great life in Australia until this happened. He will always be remembered by our family and friends". Mr Conlons father, Dermot said the family could not thank the people enough for the support we got this past two years". It took a long time but at least we got justice for Damien. God rest him". Mr Conlon's sister, Leanna Mullen, describer her brother's death as devastating and heartbreaking. Family solicitor, Councillor Tom MacSharry, who is also Lord Mayor of Sligo, said the family acknowledged the sentence of 31 years handed down to Damiens murderer but said they were disappointed that they feel they were excluded from the legal process. As victims their voices were not heard in court, but they do acknowledge the sentence," Cllr MacSharry said. Damien who was just months away from marrying his partner Linda Simon, was lured to his future father-in-laws house in Oberon in February 2023 before being told to get on his knees. Simon then said bye-bye Damien as he shot him in the head. Footage show to the court proved he had an enduring intent to murder, it was claimed. Simon, who has pleaded guilty to the murder, had it out for Mr Conlon, his daughter said, as she asked the judge to jail her father In her judgment, Justice Sarah McNaughton said the plan to kill Mr Conlon formed by Tuesday 7 February 2023. She said: "I've viewed the disturbing and chilling video of the final shooting of the already wounded Mr Conlon. "I note the calm and calculated manner in which the offender shot Mr Conlon, the words 'bye, bye, Damien', the tone of his voice, as well as the offender's multiple admissions to the shooting." Ms Simon met Mr Conlon on a dating app in 2019 after he moved to Australia from Ireland in 2011. The couple shared two children, with Mr Conlon also stepfather to two boys from Ms Simons previous relationship. In a victim statement to the court, Ms Simon said her father could not face him like a man and have a conversation with him like a human being. In the statement, Ms Simon labelled her fathers actions as senseless and violent. Recalling how she met Damien in 2019, Linda said the pair had an instant spark and she knew early on that he was the one. You only had one intention in mind when you lured him into your home and that was that Damien would not be alive after he entered your house, she said in the statement. Damien and his fiancee Linda Simon Linda and Damien shared two children together, two-year-old Mason and 11-month-old Elias, with Damien also stepfather to Lindas sons from her previous relationship, Brodie and Joseph. Linda told the court how her and Damiens children have been affected by his tragic death as they will grow up without Damiens love and all the significant life events like their first day of school or when they get married. Luke Simons crime has made it so they will never have that opportunity to feel that connection, love and support from their father, who would have given them that and so much more, Linda, who was due to marry Damien last November, added. She spoke about Damiens parents Dermot and Ethel back in Ireland who struggle daily to accept that he was taken from them in such an awful way. Linda also accused Simon of robbing Damiens loved ones of the chance to properly say goodbye to him. She said she will replay these tragic event for the rest of my life as she urged the judge to give Damien the justice he deserves and put his killer behind bars. Linda said that as they built a relationship together, Damien doted on all four of her children. He always enjoyed showing the children woodwork, he was avid lover of motorbikes, it was just... these are the things we just miss. It really is so tough. But his family have been fantastic support for us, absolutely fantastic, she said. Damiens nickname was Mad Dog, which Linda said reflected his big wild card personality and positive attitude from someone who was always willing to help others. The couple had paid deposits on the venue, the church, and everything as they planned to tie the knot when Damien was killed. It is the fourth attack to happen at the home of the 46-year-old gangland criminal since October and the second in less than 24 hours. Veteran criminal Wayne Bradley has been targeted in series of attacks with the latest seeing his car firebombed outside his home. It is the fourth attack to happen at the home of the 46-year-old gangland criminal since October and the second in less than 24 hours. It is understood Bradley attempted to save his white Audi A6 with water after it was petrol bombed at 3am yesterday morning outside his Finglas home. One line in the investigation is that the attack may be linked to a serious dispute that Bradley is involved in with another criminal from the Swords area of north Dublin that started last year. Gardai are investigating but no arrests have yet been made. He had even been attempting to act as a mediator The Swords angle seems the strongest line of enquiry, said a source. He was trying to put it out (the fire) without success when the fire brigade arrived at the scene. The car is very damaged to say the least. It is a bit of a surprise in ways as Wayne had seemed to be trying to turn his back on organised crime but when you are in, you are in it as they say. He had even been attempting to act as a mediator with some of the younger gangsters involved in their own feuds in the locality for a while, the source added. It is just the latest attack on vehicles outside the home of the convicted Dublin criminal. In the early hours of April 2, a window of another vehicle parked outside the property was smashed in and an accelerant was poured into it. The car did not go on fire on that occasion. On February 25 last, his rivals targeted machinery belonging to Bradley on lands he has an interest in, close to his home, in which 75,000 damage was caused. At the start of the campaign against him last October, Wayne Bradley offered on social media a 'pot of gold' reward for information on who smashed two cars outside his home. Bradley came to serious media attention in February 2023, when he was involved in anti-immigrant protests in Finglas and urged other demonstrators to leave their weapons at home. Bradley, who like his older brother Alan, was a close associate of murdered gang boss Eamon 'The Don' Dunne, posted a series of messages on his Facebook account before the demonstration. He warned those attending the planned protest not to bring weapons as it "will ruin what we started. Wayne served a five-year jail sentence for his role as a look-out during a raid on a Tesco store in Celbridge, Co Kildare, in 2007 under the direction of slain gang boss Dunne while older brother Alan served a six-and-a-half year sentence in high security Portlaoise Prison for the same offence. Sources say that they are both considered yesterdays men to criminals and gardai in the locality in which they were once feared. There has been no arrests in relation to any of the attacks that have occurred against Wayne Bradley. The comedian, actor and right-wing podcaster has been charged with one count each of rape, indecent assault and oral rape as well as two counts of sexual assault Russell Brand has been charged with rape and sexual assault by police in the UK. The comedian, actor and right-wing podcaster has been charged with one count each of rape, indecent assault and oral rape as well as two counts of sexual assault, the Metropolitan Police said. It comes after detectives began investigating in September 2023 after receiving a number of allegations following reporting by Channel 4's Dispatches and The Sunday Times. Brand is charged with the rape of a woman in 1999 in the Bournemouth area and the oral rape and sexual assault of a woman in 2024 in the Westminster area of London. He has also been charged with indecently assaulting a woman in 2001 and sexually assaulting another woman between 2004 and 2005 - both alleged to have taken place in Westminster, London. Brand will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday May 2. Last month, the disgraced comedian and actor, was sued over sex abuse allegations in the first-known lawsuit brought against him in the UK. An anonymous claimant has lodged a personal-injury sexual abuse case for damages at Londons High Court. The court records were first cited by the Reuters news agency last month. Brand (49) is currently the subject of a police investigation into alleged historic sex offences. He vehemently denies any wrongdoing. Scotland Yard launched an investigation in 2023 following a complaint from a woman who claimed she was sexually assaulted by Brand in central London 20 years ago. It later emerged Brand had also been questioned by police in connection with six further alleged historic sex offences. The Crown Prosecution Service was passed a file by the Metropolitan Police to consider a charging decision in Brands case. It is also understood that Brand has been interviewed by police on three separate occasions. A BBC report published in January found that staff felt unable to complain about Brand because of the culture at Radio 2 and Radio 6 Music. It said junior employees feared being removed from programmes if they raised concerns about the star, who presented shows on both stations. Allegations in the report included that Brand exposed himself in the studio, urinated into cups or bottles, threw objects in anger and according to his memoir had sex with a competition winner in an accessible disabled toilet. Peter Johnston, the BBC director of editorial complaints and reviews, investigated reports of Brands conduct from 2006 to 2008. He formally apologised to those affected on behalf of the broadcaster. Many interviewees believed, rightly or wrongly, that Russell Brand would always get his way, and therefore they stayed silent, the report said. The review identified eight complaints but only one was raised formally during the time Brand worked for the BBC. In 2023, Brand denied unspecified very, very serious criminal allegations he said had been put to him by a television company and newspaper. He added: These allegations pertain to the time when I was working in the mainstream, when I was in the newspapers all the time, when I was in the movies. As Ive written about extensively in my books, I was very, very promiscuous. Now, during that time of promiscuity, the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual. Brands representatives and lawyers have been approached for comment. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for pooling strength in the building of a Beautiful China and making the country even greener through afforestation efforts. Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, talks with the crowd on site during a voluntary tree planting activity in Fengtai District of Beijing, capital of China, April 3, 2025. Xi and other Party and state leaders, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District on Thursday morning and planted trees with officials and local people. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu) Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks when attending a voluntary tree planting activity in Beijing on Thursday. Xi and other Party and state leaders, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District in the morning and planted trees with officials and local people. At the planting site, Xi waved to the crowd to extend his greetings before picking up a shovel to join the activity. He planted saplings of multiple types of trees. While planting the trees, he also asked the children at the site about their studies, life and participation in labor and sports. He stressed that a good life comes from hard work, encouraging young children to develop a love for labor and nature, and to actively participate in afforestation and other public welfare activities. During the event, Xi also talked with officials and local people on site. He noted that the current forest coverage rate in China has surpassed 25 percent, and the country contributes about a quarter of the world's newly increased afforestation areas. The ecological environment keeps improving, a fact that has been directly and tangibly felt by the people, he said. Xi noted that in the meantime, the total forest and grassland resources in China are still insufficient, urging efforts to effectively address prominent issues and to do even better year on year in this regard. Xi emphasized the importance of forest management and improvement of the ecological quality of grasslands, and called for efforts to boost the forestry and grassland-related industries. Afforestation should deliver more benefits to the people, he stressed. He added that voluntary tree planting is a nationwide initiative that must be carried on for generations. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The 11th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council are taking place today in Baku. These meetings reaffirm Azerbaijans growing role in ensuring Europes energy security, a position strengthened by President Ilham Aliyevs energy strategy, which integrates both traditional and renewable energy sources. The meetings are attended by representatives from 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the EU, seven international financial institutions, and 42 energy companies. High-ranking officials, including ministers and deputy ministers, are participating in discussions focused on energy cooperation and future developments. The Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council has been held annually since February 2015 and has become a key platform for making strategic decisions on strengthening Europes energy security. Each year, more European countries have shown interest in accessing Azerbaijani gas or increasing their supply volumes. Today, Azerbaijan supplies gas to 10 European countries through the Southern Gas Corridor. At last years SGC ministerial meeting, President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that the corridor is an energy security and cooperation project, as it would not have been possible without collaboration between the countries along its route. The Southern Gas Corridor plays a crucial role in Europes energy security by supplying Azerbaijani gas to European markets. Its current capacity is 10 bcm per year, but gas-importing countries have expressed interest in increasing volumes. In this context, Azerbaijan and the EU signed a memorandum to expand the corridors capacity to 20 bcm per year by 2027. In an exclusive interview with Trend, European Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jrgensen highlighted the EUs cooperation with partner countries to increase gas deliveries through the corridor. "This is even more important as we aim to phase out our dependency on Russian fuels and diversify our energy supplies. The Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council is an important platform where we track progress on these goals, ensure the operations of the Southern Gas Corridor, address energy security challenges, and work towards achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century," he said. European countries recognize the need for concrete steps to expand this critical infrastructure, particularly for the more vulnerable regions of the continent. Romanian Energy Minister Sebastian-Ioan Burduja emphasized that specific actions are necessary to extend the corridor into Southeastern Europe and the Balkans. "We have all the arguments in favor of the Southern Gas Corridor expansion process. There is a clear need for substantial additional volumes and new suppliers, especially in the countries of Central and South-Eastern Europe. Given the undeniable success of this gas transport infrastructure and its particular importance in strengthening Europe's energy security, concrete steps are needed more than ever in the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor expansion plans that also take into account the states of South-Eastern Europe and the Balkans, in order to secure the connection of these regions to the Southern Gas Corridor, especially since there is a possibility of capitalizing on the gas transport infrastructure in these countries. For this to become a reality, there is a need for increased cooperation between our countries, immediate actions and concrete steps in the plans to expand the Southern Gas Corridor," he said. One of the key conditions for increasing the corridors capacity is the signing of long-term gas supply contracts. In this context, Moldovas Prime Minister Dorin Recean recently expressed his countrys strong interest in securing long-term gas contracts with Azerbaijan. "We strongly support the expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) and its role in enhancing European energy security. Moldova seeks to consolidate its energy independence by expanding its connections to alternative supply routes, including through partnerships facilitated by SGC," said Recean. Bulgaria has also repeatedly expressed interest in increasing gas imports from Azerbaijan, while Azerbaijan has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the growing demand of its partners. Speaking at a press conference with North Macedonian President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova on March 11, President Ilham Aliyev noted that Azerbaijan currently exports natural gas to 12 countries, including 10 in Europe. In 2023, Azerbaijan exported 25 bcm of gas, while also meeting domestic demand. Aliyev also highlighted Azerbaijans plans to expand gas supply routes. "Ten out of these 12 countries are European nations. Last year, Azerbaijan exported 25 billion cubic meters of gas to foreign markets. Of course, we produce more than this. We also meet local demand. However, expanding the scope and geographical reach of our gas exports is also on the agenda. Europe needs Azerbaijani gas. The Declaration on Strategic Partnership in the field of energy between the European Union and Azerbaijan, signed in Baku about three years ago, is a clear manifestation of this. Today, Azerbaijani gas contributes to the energy security of many European countries, and we have always attached great importance to the requests of our European partners. In other words, bilateral cooperation in the energy sector is very important to us, and I do hope that this practical cooperation will pave the way for collaboration in other areas as well," President Ilham Aliyev said. In terms of resources, in addition to the Shah Deniz field, which currently supplies gas through the Southern Gas Corridor, Azerbaijan is actively developing the Absheron field, the countrys second-largest natural gas reserve after Shah Deniz. Alongside traditional energy development, Azerbaijan is investing heavily in renewables. On April 4, the Green Energy Advisory Council will hold its second ministerial meeting focused on energy transmission and trade between Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Georgia, and Bulgaria. A key topic will be the Caspian-Black Sea-Europe Green Energy Corridor, including the construction of the Black Sea Energy submarine cable, which will enable Azerbaijan to supply renewable energy to Europe. This project was launched in December 2022 when Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary signed a strategic partnership agreement. The project envisions the construction of a 1,000 MW, 1,195 km-long cable capable of delivering up to 4 GW of renewable energy to Europe. Through these initiatives, Azerbaijan is reinforcing its role as a reliable energy supplier while actively contributing to global climate goals. By integrating traditional and renewable energy sources, the country is building a resilient and diversified energy system that meets modern energy demands. The Southern Gas Corridor and green energy projects like Black Sea Energy highlight Azerbaijans strategic approach to ensuring Europes energy security and accelerating the transition to sustainable energy. All of this underscores Azerbaijans importance as a key player on the international energy stage and a vital partner for countries seeking to diversify their energy supply and develop renewable energy sources. President Ilham Aliyevs forward-looking energy policy has been instrumental in these achievements, ensuring the steady growth of the sector, attracting foreign investment, and solidifying Azerbaijans position as a leading energy hub in the region and beyond. Cheap European Homes will see hosts Kevin McGahern and Maggie Molloy bring a selection of eager Irish house and apartment hunters to sunnier parts of the continent House hunters get to see some real bargains Take a look at these affordable overseas properties that have Irish house hunters slapping on the sun-cream and dreaming of a life by the sea. Cheap European Homes will see hosts Kevin McGahern and Maggie Molloy bring a selection of eager Irish house and apartment hunters to sunnier parts of the continent. Im here to be the househunters lifestyle adviser, their wingman, explains Kevin. I will guide them through the nuances of local customs and help them prepare for their big move. Maggie adds: Whether our house hunters are looking for a home in a quiet French village, near a beach on the Mediterranean or a city with a bustling nightlife, Ill make sure theyll get the best value for their money without compromising. . . . Here are some highlights of the type of homes available which may be within the budget of the hopefuls, and while there are three properties featured in each episode, we pick out a stand-out home from each programme. In episode one theres a property for sale for 160,000 in the coastal resort of Nerja, near Malaga, Spain, which former prison officer Michelle OConnor and her partner Albert hope to snap up and also find a site to rent out space for touring campervans. One of the houses they view is a very traditional Spanish home lying on one- third of an acre on the edge of Competa, about 15 minutes from the coast. The quirky three-bed structure is in a good state, but electrics and plumbing needed to be changed. Its bedrooms interconnect and while its quite spacious and boasts amazing views, the main downside is it has just an outside bathroom. House hunters get to see some real bargains For episode two the team travel to France where they discover a three-bed townhouse in Collioure in Corsavy in the Pyrenees, with Spain just over the hill. The property features gorgeous windows, with cafes and shops nearby. The only downside is a huge rock jutting out of its wall. Kevin and Maggie return to Spain for episode three where they go to Murcia. In Los Nietos, they find a two-storey terraced townhouse for 95,000. Its a modern build in a small development on a quiet corner next to a nature reserve. The house is metres from the sea, with a sun terrace at the back and a plot of land also for sale in front of the sea. The eastern Algarve in Portugal is featured in episode four. There, the duo discovered a typical Portuguese family villa in Pechao on offer for 215,000. It is a sizeable property with massive back yard, but needs a makeover. France is revisited for episode five, where theres a charming four-bed townhouse in the medieval town of Bazas, near Bordeaux. It is nearly 300 years old and on sale for 139,000. The house is close to shops and cafes and is on a NSESCO site, so permission will be needed to carry out works but will get funding to maintain it. Italy is the last port of call in episode six. A three-bed villa is on offer for 95,000 in Noax, about a 30-minute drive from Udine. The property is set on three-quarters of an acre with its own vineyard. The 36-year-old said hes discussed the issue at length with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Conor McGregor has been slammed by a professor for attempting to link the cause of autism to vaccinations. Taking to X, McGregor shared: I wonder is there a person in the world with autism, who was not vaccinated whatsoever, nor their mother vaccinated during the pregnancy term etc. Adding: I wonder if there is one such case to disprove the vaccine connection to autism theory? and tagging the US Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert Kennedy Jr. Kennedy, who is the nephew of former US President John. F Kennedy, is an anti-vaccine activist and conspiracy theorist. US health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr is apparently commissioning another study to examine the link between the vaccine and autism. Photo: Reuters Niall Conroy, an Adjunct Professor of Public Health re-shared the social media post alongside a screenshot from research into autism and vaccines. Jesus, it really is the post-truth world, he said. In multiple HUGE studies, autism rates are the same in vaccinated and unvaccinated cohorts." The post reads: The authors found that There was no increase in the risk of autistic disorder or other autistic-spectrum disorders among vaccinated children as compared with unvaccinated children. Jesus, it really is the post-truth world. In multiple HUGE studies, autism rates are the same in vaccinated and unvaccinated cohorts. See screenshot below for one of many examples. https://t.co/5EZHh1Gk8N pic.twitter.com/QjdlGUZShH Niall Conroy (@NICU_doc_salone) April 3, 2025 The screenshot appears to be a segment of a 2002 Danish study published in the New England Journal of Medicine titled A population-based study of measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination and autism which concluded there was strong evidence against the claim MMR vaccinations cause autism. It is one of many research papers that have debunked the myth. In another X post, the MMA fighter said he had lengthy meetings with Robert Kennedy on autism and vaccines while in the USA. It was shocking to say the least, he said. 1 in 20 of our children in Ireland are affected with Autism. 1 in 20! Staggering! "That is over 30,000 families affected, not including extended family and friends who play their role in supporting daily. "RFK is on this case heavily and is only warming up! I am in firm support of him in uncovering the full truth on autism and its root cause, he said. "There will be major repercussions for what has been done to families across the world, and it will be in our lifetime! You will not mess with parents and their children and get away with it! That is point blank! God knows!" A report released by Irish autism charity AsIAm found that 92% of survey respondents believe that misinformation about Autism and Autistic people has increased over the past 12 months. A spokesperson for the charity also hit out at McGregor for spreading misinformation. This misinformation leads to stigmatisation and has real-world, negative impacts on Autistic people, they told The Irish Mirror. The leading authority on public health, the World Health Organisation, has definitively, and long ago, proven that there is no link between Autism and vaccination - a position shared by Autistic people and all credible academic, clinical, and advocacy authorities within our community. A linkage between the two not only raises significant public health risks but seeks to medicalise Autistic people and shifts the focus from the real barriers Autistic people face in society every day. The contract was announced by First Minister Michelle ONeill, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Health Minister Mike Nesbitt Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, First Minister Michelle ONeill, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Ciaran Mulgrew, chairman of the Belfast Trust. One of the two partner companies tasked with building the new childrens hospital in Belfast has pulled out. BAM Ireland said it had made a commercial decision not to go ahead with its partnership with Co Down-based construction firm Graham Construction, the BBC reported. BAM, the contractor behind the National Childrens Hospital in Dublin, was jointly awarded the 793m contract for a new childrens hospital on the Royal Victoria Hospital site by the Stormont Executive only last month. The contract was announced by First Minister Michelle ONeill, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Health Minister Mike Nesbitt. The construction works are valued at 459m. The new 10-floor hospital was originally planned to open in July 2020 at a cost of 263m. However, the project has been beset by delays and costs have risen. But yesterday a BAM spokesperson said: Graham will now proceed with the customer, and BAMs decision will not impact the delivery of the hospital. At yesterdays Stormont health committee, DUP MLA Diane Dodds raised questions about contract changes. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt confirmed the contract for the hospital was with Graham Construction. Estates director Phillip McClay from the Department of Health said BAM withdrew at a late stage in the discussions and they have asked for the reasons, but it was his understanding that BAMs withdrawal was by amicable agreement. He said he was satisfied that Graham have the wherewithal and the ability to construct the childrens hospital. Sinn Fein had faced criticism in the Republic for backing BAM in Northern Ireland despite party TDs previously criticising it for spending overruns in the Republic. Sinn Fein TDs had previously called on the Irish Government to not go ahead with a construction contract with BAM and pointed to it being behind on the Dublin childrens hospital project which has run massively over cost. Described as the most expensive childrens hospital in the world, it has cost almost 2.36bn. Last November, Pearse Doherty said the Irish Government should not go ahead with the latest BAM contract under any circumstances and urged them to come to their senses and pull the plug on this reckless contract. Later, Sinn Fein said: We, of course, had concerns with the conduct of BAM and the overruns in the National Childrens Hospital in Dublin. This is why Philip McGuigan as chair of the (Stormont) Health Committee has sought assurances from the Department of Health on the contract terms and the contract award. Tauranga Special School on 18th Ave has come a long way in its nearly 60 years. Not only has its roll more than doubled, but theres a long list of families waiting to enrol their children. The school, which educates kids with diverse needs, celebrates its diamond jubilee in May. The school once surrounded by farmland has seen the community grow up around it. First opening in 1965, the school was originally named Kaka St Special School, changing its name in 2010, principal Barrie Wickens said. Tauranga Special School Principal, Barrie Wickens, has been with the school for 23 years. The school is home to 122 children with a maximum capacity of 127, aged 5 to 21, who are on the autistic spectrum or have physical and sensory impairments. We have some students that could be here for 16 years, he said. When Wickens started at the school two decades ago, there were 52 students. Kristen Hall, and Nikora Finnerty at Tauranga Special School. Photo / Tom Eley Now it sounds like its taken 23 years to get double size. But the school does not get the same turnover of students a school such as Tauranga Intermediate will get, he said. Across the road, every year, its 600 in, 600 out. So you would have a population with that intermediate over 40 years into the thousands. Our population is in the low hundreds. There is no such thing as fees at the school, with funding coming from the Ministry of Educations Ongoing Resource Scheme, Wickens said. Wickens shows archive photos of the old school. The original building, constructed in 1965, is still standing and has had a host of upgrades to match the needs of its students. We have got thousands of dollars worth of equipment here. There is a range of hoists and lifts to help the students out of their mobility supports and onto cushioned mats on the floor. The school strives to preserve the students dignity, and teachers are not allowed to lift students over 16kg, Wickens said. Its a no-lift school. The school faced some unique challenges because of the limited student capacity and had a waitlist of 19 families, he said. Alongside the base school that comprises four separate teaching rooms and students, there are two offsite community classes and four that various schools host. The Devonport Road Campus. The classrooms are Tauranga Intermediate, Papamoa College, Te Kura o Manunui, Welcome Bay Primary, Tauranga Community College Campus, Devonport Road Campus and the Specialist Teacher Outreach Service. We call these satellites because its like the old space scenario, you know, with this as the mother ship (18th Avenue), he said. There is no school zone that Tauranga Special School has to adhere to, but has a catchment from Katikati township to Paengaroa. The class and specialist teams work side by side to help these children and their families reach obtainable goals, according to the Tauranga Special School Prospectus. Tauranga Special School student, Jacob Cowley. We help them to try to reach their potential, Wickens said. The school follows the New Zealand Curriculum and incorporates the key competencies throughout the day, he said. The jubilee is set for May 1 and 2, with one day set aside for the children and families and one more traditional event the following day. For David Monk, his Parkinsons diagnosis only came after an acquaintance remarked on his unusual gait. She noticed my foot was dragging slightly as I walked and told my wife that Id either had a stroke or that I had Parkinsons, said the 76-year-old Pyes Pa resident. I continued teaching at the time but made sure it wasnt obvious. People expect you to be shaking but a lot of people dont have a tremor and thats why it can be kept hidden. Twenty years later, Monk is an organiser of the Mount Maunganui Red Tulip Walk For Parkinsons from 10am, on Sunday, April 6. Participants contribute $25 to Parkinsons New Zealand Charitable Trust and walk the base track of the Mount. The funds will go towards our charitable service which includes Parkinsons educators who provide information, education, and support, said Helen Carter from Parkinsons NZ. Alongside home visits, referrals, support groups, and seminars, we also offer social activities and exercise classes for people with Parkinsons in the Bay of Plenty. No cure Parkinsons is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world, according to PNZ. Although there is currently no cure, treatment and support are available, said Carter. We estimate there are 13,000 New Zealanders currently living with Parkinsons, but numbers are expected to grow significantly. The most common symptoms are tremors, stiffness and slowness of movement but also the less obvious depression, anxiety and apathy. When someone notices a tremor, slower movement or a foot dragging, for instance, they should make an appointment with a GP who may refer them to a neurologist, said Carter. The sooner a person gets diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin. Parkinsons is a long-term progressive neurological condition, which means that over time symptoms may become more debilitating. Daily unsung heroes Monk also acknowledges the daily unsung heroes that surround those with the disease. When dealing with the condition, the impact on the partners, wives and family who have to care for the person with Parkinsons is often forgotten, he said. The task they take on, as with other illnesses to care for, they sacrifice so much to make the loved ones life better is tremendous. For further support or information, go to: www.parkinsons.org.nz or call 0800 473 4636. The Mount Maunganui Red Tulip Walk For Parkinsons starts at Salisbury Wharf, Pilot Bay from 10am Sunday, April 6. Buy tickets via the QR code or online at: https://events.humanitix.com/mount-maunganui-red-tulip-walk-for-parkinsons-2025 Over the coming weeks, we will use the power of our journalism to showcase people, organisations and businesses achieving great things or overcoming the odds. It will cover everything from the economy to sporting success, to volunteers in the heartland who roll up their sleeves and make a real difference for their local community. Thats why NZMEs the New Zealand Herald and its sister titles, the Northern Advocate , Bay of Plenty Times , Weekend Sun , Rotorua Daily Post , Waikato Herald , Hawkes Bay Today , the Gisborne Herald and the Whanganui Chronicle , are launching On The Up an editorial campaign that will shine a light on uplifting stories of New Zealand success and inspiration. And in a changing, challenging world, theres no better time than now to tell stories that remind us we live in a world of endless possibilities. Herald editor-in-chief Murray Kirkness said the campaign will tell Kiwi stories of success, inspiration and possibility. On the Up will see us using our platforms to help New Zealand thrive. Its a chance to use our powerful journalism and brands to shine a light on people who are doing amazing things. We want to help other Kiwis see what they can achieve in whatever pursuit they dedicate themselves to, Kirkness said. The media plays a vital role in holding the powerful to account, examining issues that need urgent attention and helping to drive change for the better. That will always be a core mission of our newsrooms. At the same time, we want to champion Kiwis who are beating the odds and celebrate those performing impressive feats, whether on the international stage or in the neighbourhoods where they live. On the Up stories will be branded and appear on our digital and print platforms and supported by NZMEs other media brands. Wed love our readers to be part of the journey, so if you have any ideas for stories that would be suitable, please let us know by emailing ontheup@nzme.co.nz. Were on the up and we look forward to sharing these wonderful stories with you. The names of the parents and their daughter cannot be published because of prohibitions in the Care of Children Act and the Family Court Act which protect childrens identities. A Supreme Court judgment made public this afternoon revealed details of the case, in which the girls parents reject big pharma treatments in favour of natural and spiritual therapy. This led to the family trying to leave the country with the girl the night before a court hearing. After the parents of a young girl with life-threatening leukaemia withdrew their consent for her to continue chemotherapy, government agencies began action in the court for orders over her guardianship. The age of the girl has also not been stated in the publicly released court documents. However, the court decision said the girl had been diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, a form of cancer that develops in the bone marrow. While she completed the initial courses of chemotherapy treatment, her parents withdrew their consent for continuing chemotherapy in January. The child's father has turned to the Supreme Court to appeal High Court decisions ruling on the guardianship of the girl. The hospital that had been treating her sent a report of concern to the child protection agency Oranga Tamariki in mid-February, after the girl had missed 28 days of oral chemotherapy and three injections which would have been administered by community nurses. At a meeting at the hospital in late February, the girls mother explained that she did not accept chemotherapy was required and it was her intention to treat [the girl] by natural and spiritual means, according to the decision. The girls father said he considered the motivation for using chemotherapy was driven by big pharma a term used to describe collectively profit-motivated global pharmaceutical companies. A doctor at the meeting explained that the medical team wanted to start treatment again three days later. The mother said they would not agree to any more chemotherapy, and the family failed to make the appointment. Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora then began action in the High Court seeking various orders about the girls guardianship. On the evening of March 5, the night before a scheduled court hearing, Health NZ made an urgent application to the High Court. The agency had been advised that the girl, her mother and various other family members were booked on international flights due to leave Auckland that night with an overseas destination in mind. An interim order was made to prevent this. Health NZ and Oranga Tamariki (OT) then sought amended orders to give OT the power to take the girl away from her family and place her at a location approved by its chief executive. The High Court declined to make these invasive orders, with the judge saying it would be a very draconian order potentially applying for a long time in the young childs life. The judge did not consider it necessary to take the girl away from her family, given her mothers commitment, by the end of the court hearing, that she would comply if treatment was the only option. The subsequent High Court order placed the girl under the guardianship of the court until the completion of her medical treatment, or for three years, whichever is the earliest. Hospital clinicians were appointed her agents for the purpose of consenting to treatment. OT was appointed as an agent to ensure that she received that treatment and, if the parents did not facilitate this, to uplift and place her at another location where treatment would be assured. The parents were to remain agents in all other respects. The High Court judge acknowledged that there were genuine concerns about the risks of chemotherapy, and that the girls health had outwardly improved since chemotherapy stopped. However, the judge also said that she needed the ongoing medical treatment to save her life. If that were followed, her prognosis was good. The girls father then sought leave to appeal directly to the Supreme Court, rather than the Court of Appeal, against the High Court orders. He said the proceedings were rushed and cross-examination curtailed. The father noted that the girls mother raised arguments about matters such as the courts jurisdiction and the legality of forced treatment. The Supreme Court, in its decision released today, said it had to be satisfied that there were exceptional circumstances to justify a direct appeal that bypassed the Court of Appeal. That test is not met here, the Supreme Court justices said. While the matters raised are obviously important issues, particularly for the family, there is no good reason advanced why the Court of Appeal could not deal with the matter and in an appropriate timeframe. The fathers application for leave to appeal was dismissed. Sentenced on April 3 for Charge of Criminal Attempt-Child Abuse Resulting in Death SIDNEY--A case that shocked Cheyenne County was finally resolved on April 3, 2025, as Brandon Russell, 26, was sentenced to 45-to-50 years in prison for Criminal Attempt-Child Abuse Resulting in Death at the District Court of Cheyenne County. The Honorable Derek Weimer, District Judge, passed a sentence on Russell. Russell was credited with 408 days time served, and the Court deemed the remaining court costs not collectible and waived said costs. Russell was represented by Matthew J. McDonald and the state was represented by William P. Tangeman and Demi Herman, Special-Appointed Cheyenne Count... Hector Barbotta Seville Friday, 4 April 2025, 11:31 Compartir The announcement of trade tariffs on foreign goods by Donald Trump in the United States has met with a response in Andalucia in the form of concern, calls for unity, a willingness to improve its presence in alternative markets and an alert to the possible arrival of products from third-party countries seeking to open in Europe the doors that are being closed to them in the United States. Although Andalusian exports to the US also come from other sectors, it is in the agricultural sector where the alarm bells have been ringing the longest, and the US president's appearance in the early hours of Thursday night, far from clearing up the uncertainties, has only heightened them. In the Junta de Andalucia reactions have been diverse, but focused. Regional minister of Agriculture, Ramon Fernandez-Pacheco, called on the central Ministry of Agriculture to convene a sectoral round table, at the same time calling on the agricultural organisations and other interested parties to analyse the situation and draw up a plan of action. Regional minister for the economy and spokesperson for the Junta, Carolina Espana, after thanking "the outstretched hand" from central government, pointed out that exporters should know that the regional government "is already working and will be at their side so that they are affected as little as possible." New markets This work, according to Carolina Espana, is being carried out in coordination with Fernandez-Pacheco and regional minister of Industry, Jorge Paradela, who in turn showed his commitment to exploring and consolidating new markets as an anticipatory measure in case the United States "becomes complicated as a destination." Beyond the response measures that may be taken by the European Union in terms of tariffs, Fernandez-Pacheco stressed the need to protect the presence of Andalusian products in the domestic market and for Andalusian farmers to find it easier to sell in Europe, where competition will increase as many countries outside the EU that currently work with the United States and that will now encounter difficulties, "will surely look to Europe." For these reasons he stressed that it is necessary to defend the fact that Andalucia has a name for excellence "that when consumers have the opportunity to freely enjoy it, they always choose it." The regional ministry of agriculture will listen to agricultural organisations and has asked the Ministry in Madrid for sector-led round table discussions. Fernandez-Pacheco stressed the need for central government to urgently convene round table discussions to explain to the regions what measures it is going to propose and to state what the Spanish position will be with regard to the European Union. "We are confident that the Ministry will put sound measures on the table, that the European Union will also strengthen the internal market, that we will protect our borders, that we will protect our farmers and that we will be able to overcome this situation in the best way possible." Talks He further announced that two round table discussions have been convened for next week: one for the agricultural industry with key organisations such as ASAJA, COAG and UPA plus the agri-food cooperatives, and the other with employers and trade unions, both intended to analyse the situation, gather their proposals and in this way "put together a front that will allow us to protect a strategic sector for the Andalusian economy", explained the regional minister. The United States is the fifth largest market for Andalusian exports and is a market that broke records last year. Of the total sales of agricultural products to the North American country, some 1.35 billion euros, around 80% of that figure corresponds to olive-related products, especially olive oil, which represents some 800 million euros annually. Fernandez-Pacheco said that it is necessary to know how the announced measures will be implemented and what is the deadline for the imposition of these tariffs. He gave assurances that the regional government will take steps to move forward. "We will do so not only from the regional ministry of Agriculture, but also from the regional ministry of Economy with regard to the search for new markets in order to continue to conquer new audiences for our products, with promotion and with everything that is necessary." Internationalisation In this regard, regional minister of Economy, Carolina Espana, has already announced that the Junta will publish the bases for internationalisation incentives in May so that Andalusian companies can seek alternative markets to the USA. This is aid on which the regional government, through its agency known as Trade, was already working in a bid to improve the internationalisation of the regional economy and which can now be used for this specific purpose. Carolina Espana explained that, within its powers, the Junta has been working for years on the internationalisation of Andalusian companies and the results are more than evident, with annual exports that are close to or exceeding 40 billion euros. Special efforts have also been made to diversify markets, something that the Junta spokesperson considers essential to tackle the current trade war. Thus, in recent years other non-European markets have grown, such as China (16%) and Morocco (12%). Other countries in Africa and even Oceania and Asia have also grown. Andalusian products now reach 206 destinations on five continents. She added that, in this vein, the Junta has prepared the first aid package for internationalisation that will allow Andalusian exporting companies to cover the costs of attending trade fairs and networking trips, among others. Espana stressed that the aim of the regional government "is to reassure our farmers, livestock breeders and business leaders" and, consequently, "to be united", which is why she has opted for coordinating between ministries and industry leaders to have "a public-private collaboration so that the right steps are taken." Paco Grinan Malaga Friday, 4 April 2025, 17:32 Compartir His last work is unfinished. Without colour. He left it that way because it was the one he was working on when he died. It contrasts with the previous piece, a complete synthesis of his art, which also has the biographical marker that it served as a headboard at his wake. On display in the gallery room before these is the piece that hung in his own dining room, while on the display panel behind that is a sleek-looking, oval-shaped oil painting that was his birthday present to his wife, which he had presented to her as though he were a Russian tsar presenting his queen with a Faberge egg. The simile is not that far-fetched if we consider that this artist was the emperor of abstract art, the Russian Vassily Kandinsky and now the absolute protagonist of this new exhibition at Malaga's Pompidou centre. A special and pretty definitive exhibition of his work, one of those events that leave their mark on the calendar for this iconic centre for contemporary art. There is more than one reason for this exhibition being so significant - in fact, two reasons. Firstly, the exhibition is celebrating that last Friday marked the tenth anniversary of the opening of the museum. Secondly, its continuity in Malaga city for the next ten years was secured following the signing of a new agreement, also last Friday, by the Parisian institution and Malaga city council. The ambitious exhibition Vassily Kandinsky, Pioneer of Abstract Art shows "a chronological journey through the artist's life, which was very eventful because he was born Russian in the 19th century, became German in the 1920s and died French. I know of few artists like this, who are a symbol of Europe," said curator Angela Lampe at the launch event for this complete retrospective made up of 47 works of art that cover the painter's artistic biography. It is an exhibition that not only allows us to see how his art evolved, but also to see how his life unfolded, discovering his lesser-known periods. This is the case for his first paintings after his arrival in Germany at the end of the 19th century, following his decision to leave his future career as a lawyer and economist in Russia. In these early days of his artistry, it is surprising to discover him as one of the Impressionists, painting very figurative landscapes, but with colour already dominating his palette. "He was synaesthetic, he was able to see sounds as colours," stated Lampe of the innovative Kandinsky. This young artist then abandoned form to give prominence to abstract art from 1909 onwards, a trademark art style that he stopped pursuing in the following pieces on show in this exhibition. In these few works he curiously returned to figurative scenes because of the Great War. As a Russian citizen he returned to his country where he was influenced by Constructivism, the avant-garde art movement prevailing in the Soviet sphere. "These were his most political years, he lost his personal fortune, married Nina Andreyevskaya and became involved in Bolshevik society with the democratisation of culture," said the curator about this period. Kandinsky then broke away with this thinking when he began his relationship with the Bauhaus in 1919, moving back to Germany, becoming a teacher at the Bauhaus art school and, in turn, becoming one of the fundamental faces of this influential artistic movement. Innovation and geometric abstraction infused his tools of the trade and colours faded. Then, with the rise of Nazism in the early 1930s, life took him to Paris in 1933, where he discovered Miro and the artist returned to chromaticism and forms within abstraction, giving his own style a new lease of life. "This is a unique and intimate exhibition that allows us to enter into contact and get closer to Kandinsky's work," said the exhibition's curator, who stressed that the word that most defines the artist's work is "vibration" because what he sought in art is for "the soul to vibrate from its shapes and colours". This is a retrospective that offers a broad overview of the life and work of the Franco-Russian-German artist, which also comes together with a "magnificent" staging and layout at the Centre Pompidou Malaga, as Angela Lampe put it. With sponsorship from Fundacion La Caixa, the inauguration of the exhibition Vassily Kandinsky, Pioneer of Abstract Art, which can be visited until September, was attended by Kareen Rispal, French ambassador to Spain. The ambassador cited Malaga's Pompidou as an example of Spanish-French cultural collaboration: "And I say this here, in the city of Picasso's birth, where in 2023 both countries celebrated the anniversary of his death with a close collaboration between our shared museums." The spirit of Picasso This Picasso spirit that can be felt in Malaga was also mentioned by the president of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, Laurent Le Bon, who pointed out that, like the Malaga-born artist, "Kandinsky was a little bit French", which is why both artists were pioneers not only in art, but also in what "today is Europe, so here we feel in our own domain". Malaga's mayor, Paco de la Torre, also took the floor at the presentation to applaud this great exhibition that "demonstrates the power of the Pompidou in Paris and the possibility of Malaga being a benchmark location for a universal artist." The speeches ended with Le Bon's call to usher in the next ten years of exhibitions and artistic exchange: "Vive Malaga! Vive le Centre Pompidou Malaga! Et vive les relations culturelles franco-espagnoles!" BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Today energy security is an integral part of national security of countries. We can talk also about industrial security, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting, Trend reports. Because in order to develop industries, we need energy resources, petrochemicals, fertilizers. Azerbaijan is a producer and exporter of crude oil, natural gas, oil products, petrochemicals, and fertilizers, added the head of state. Jose Rodriguez Camara Rincon de la Victoria Friday, 4 April 2025, 18:35 Compartir Pedro Cantalejo, a veteran archaeologist who has spent more than four decades studying the Cueva del Tesoro (treasure cave), located near Rincon de la Victoria on the eastern Costa del Sol, has made remarkable progress. His efforts have been rewarded with the discovery of the oldest human marks made by handprints in the Mediterranean region. According to the archaeologist, the marks, which include handprints, fan-shaped finger trails and wall impressions made when the caves rock was still soft and damp, are "very important for the scientific community around the world". As the presence of neanderthals is confirmed, new doubts give rise to further research and hypotheses. While other discoveries have pointed more to decorative purposes etched during the Paleolithic era, the most recent ones clearly indicate intentional exploration of the cave. Some handprints belong to children or adolescents and at least one appears to have been made from an elevated position, suggesting the individual climbed a rock to leave their mark. The discovery will expand research, supported by provincial authorities and Malaga's expert teams, enhancing the value of the Cueva del Tesoro "not only as a tourist attraction, but also as a centre for study and research". The project has received work authorisation and support at least until the end of the year. It was in September of 2024 that the Junta de Andalucia's culture department first authorised the start of the new study of the Rincon de la Victoria caves, which had been abandoned since the 1970s. Findings In addition to the hand and fingerprints, the findings also include engravings made with lithic instruments, red marks and black traces. Handwork in the cave during the Palaeolithic period was possible thanks to the rock being softer and more humid at the time. It is important to note that the marks were found in the middle and final section of the large cavity, with a length of more than a kilometre, which indicates exploration of the cave in depth. Carbon14 dating of sediment layers in the caves first chamber indicates continuous human presence between 44,100 and 6,900 years ago. Archaeologists have also found two shells with large deposits of molluscs, crustaceans and fish, pointing to 14,000-year-old food remains. Another discovery in the same chamber are the remains of an entrance shaft, with the original debris plug still sealed. The study of the cave has allowed scientists to place three key dates, the oldest work dating back at least 34,000 years. Excavations in the Sala de las Conchas (shell chamber) have also documented layers from the Epipalaeolithic period - a time of climatic transition between the colder Paleolithic age (the last stage of the Old Stone age) and the Neolithic era with a climate closer to the current Mediterranean. These discoveries are helping researchers better understand how ancient populations adapted to such drastic climatic changes. Eugenio Cabezas Nerja Friday, 4 April 2025, 11:49 | Updated 12:57h. Compartir There has been no trace found, as yet, of Miguel Ramirez Fortes, 'Luis el Reloj', the 66-year-old Nerja resident who disappeared last Saturday in the nearby village of Maro. Around a hundred people, including members of the public, Guardia Civil, Local Police, civil protection services, volunteers, neighbours, family and friends, took part on Thursday afternoon in a search in the Vega de Maro area to try to locate the man, who suffers from dementia, although he does not require medication, according to his family. The family of Ramirez Fortes, who worked as a cook for several decades until his retirement, had appealed to the public through social networks to join the effort, which has also been supported by Nerja town hall. In fact, the first deputy mayor, Francisco Arce (PP), has participated in the search, forming part of one of the 15 groups that have been created to explore the many other areas in which the search perimeter has been divided. The trail of Ramirez Fortes was lost late last Saturday afternoon at the bus stop in Maro, located next to the roundabout that gives access to the small village, which has a population of just 800 inhabitants. He had spent the afternoon with one of his sons in a house in Maro, who explained that he left him at the stop to catch the bus. However, it is not clear that he got on the bus: the driver of the vehicle told the Guardia Civil that he had not see him. Another witness places him in a taxi heading in the direction of Nerja afterwards. Also in a bar in Maro. And there are witnesses who said they saw him last Sunday near his house in Nerja. All the leads have so far been unsuccessful. Thursday's search took place between 4pm and 8pm. SUR has accompanied several of the groups that have combed rural roads, lanes, irrigation channels and agricultural estates in the area, between the town of Maro and the eastern part of Nerja town centre, and in the area around the Nerja wastewater treatment plant. There are more than 300 hectares of land, mostly agricultural, but also with steep mountainous areas. "It's like looking for a needle in a haystack, there are too few of us to cover such a large area," said Antonio Gallardo, one of the participants in the search around Maro beach. The relatives of Ramirez Fortes, including his three children, have also taken part. "They are devastated. Their father has disappeared, it seems that the earth has swallowed him up, poor man," said another of the participants. The Guardia Civil is in charge of coordinating the search for Miguel Ramirez Fortes, with the help of the Local Police and Civil Protection teams. Sources consulted by SUR have pointed out that it has not yet been decided whether further searches by members of the public will be carried out in the next few days. Eugenio Cabezas Velez-Malaga Friday, 4 April 2025, 18:47 Compartir The Velez-Malaga tramway - the first modern tramway to operate in the Andalucia region of southern Span - has been out of service for 13 years. This is more years than it was operational since its launch in 2006. Despite the significant investment of more than 40 million euros that were put into its inauguration, the service was halted in 2012. However, for a year now, the town hall has been promising to run a survey among residents and assess its re-opening. The main stumbling block, according to mayor Jesus Lupianez, is the lack of enough municipal sources for the investment of such an operation. However, the municipal leader has assured that he still plans to carry out the survey. Spain's central government has given the municipal authority a year to justify the 3.7-million-euro subsidy from European funds, allocated for the reactivation of the tramway. 'With the money we have right now, we couldn't get it up and running in a year.' "According to technicians, we are talking about 15 million euros to set up something that would not entirely solve our transport issues. We are trying to update the whole transport service, because the bus service has become a bit obsolete in terms of improvements in accessibility and proximity," said Lupianez. Technicians have also evaluated the deteriorated state of the tramway system, which would need a lot of development. Transport alternatives Regarding possible alternatives, Lupianez said that he has not fully ruled out the possibility of creating a BRT system of electric buses that would use the tram platforms, without the catenaries. The main issue with buses is that they pass through the town's main roads, contributing to further saturation and traffic jams. "We don't have specialised roads like Seville," said the mayor, highlighting that the age of buses in the municipality is not the problem, as there are already two new vehicles and three expected in the summer. The mayor has expressed his frustration with the Junta's delay in integrating Velez-Malaga into the transport consortium of Malaga's metropolitan area. Lupianez has stated that "it makes no sense that Antequera has entered, even though it is located much further from Malaga than Velez", with much less people travelling to the city. "I have to defend the interests of my citizens," said the mayor, promising to maintain the demand. Antonio M. Romero Alora Friday, 4 April 2025, 18:59 Compartir The much-anticipated building of a hanging footbridge at the very end of the Caminito del Rey walkway kicked off last Friday. The start of the work coincided with the tenth anniversary of the popular inland visitor attraction and a ceremony marking it, which was attended by local politicians, officials and those involved in the project. The dignitaries were there to witness the laying of a symbolic foundation stone - in fact a metal cylinder with daily newspapers and other artefacts carried high up the rockface by drone to be fixed in a crevice by workers who had climbed up to receive it. Longest in Spain Once finished, at 110 metres, it will be the longest hanging footbridge in Spain spanning the existing iron bridge and El Chorro tunnel exit at a height of 50 metres. It will provide an even more spectacular option for visitors to finish the Caminito del Rey. Zoom Recreation of what the new brdge will look like. SUR At the tenth birthday celebration was Francisco Salado, the president of the Diputacion provincial authority, the body that set up the Caminito, along with local mayors whose towns have benefited from increased numbers of visitors: Francisco Martinez (Alora); Manuel Baron (Antequera); Virginia Romero (Valle de Abdalajis); and Juan Alberto Naranjo (Ardales). Public-private cooperation The regional government's representative for Malaga province, Patricia Navarro, was also there, as was the head of construction group Sando, Luis Sanchez Manzano. His company forms part of the joint venture that operates Caminito del Rey, which also includes firms Espectaculos Mundo and Salzillo Servicios Integrales. The bridge will cost 1.25 million euros which is being paid by the operators themselves, highlighting the success of public-private cooperation on the eight-kilometre path which includes parts on dramatic cliff side ledges. The new suspension bridge will have two main sustainable steel cables of 4,500 kilograms and a 1,450-metre special braided steel cable and a downward slope with an average drop of 7.5%. The footbridge will be made of wood on a metal foundation and the handrails will be made of steel cable, like those already existing along the Caminito. The total structure will weigh 38 tonnes, of which 17 tonnes will be the new bridge. The assembly and installation will be complex and require the use of helicopters. Alternative route This new bridge is presented as an alternative to the current exit route of the Caminito - which can still be used - and will save visitors almost a kilometre of downhill walking on steeper terrain. At the end of the bridge, paths will take visitors to the exit. According to a geological study compiled by Granada and Jaen universities, a "very detailed" evaluation was carried out to assess the safety of a slope located near the exit of the Caminito. It has revealed the slope shows "signs of instability and is apparently the most problematic part of the exit path". Therefore, although the measures recommended for the stabilisation of the slope have already been carried out (installation of triple torsion meshes and the placement of anchors, cables and high resistance meshes to retain possible landslides), the report also recommended studying other measures such as the search for alternative routes for the movement of the numerous visitors to the Caminito del Rey to reduce exposure to possible landslides. Cristina Vallejo / N.H. Malaga Friday, 4 April 2025, 12:04 | Updated 15:40h. Compartir Nearly 40,000 British residents in Malaga province (39,462, to be precise) have applied for the TIE foreigners ID card that recognises their pre-Brexit residency rights. This figure makes Malaga the province with the second largest number of Britons who have exchanged their green EU certificate for a TIE card since January 2020, when the UK left the European Union. According to the statistics prepared by the Spanish ministry of inclusion, social security and migration, Malaga is only surpassed by Alicante province, where there are 56,196 British residents with a TIE under the new bilateral relations between London and the EU. 285,093 born in the UK live in Spain; 222,061 have the EU rights TIE card, which is not obligatory but highly recommended for those here before Brexit Between July 2020 (when the cards were first issued to UK residents) and December 2024 (for when latest data is available), some 222,061 UK nationals who were resident in Spain before Brexit have obtained their Tarjeta de Identidad Extranjera (TIE). This procedure is not compulsory but is heavily recommended by the authorities. In the case of these British residents in Spain before Brexit, the card specifies that their status includes the rights agreed in the Withdrawal Agreement signed between Brussels and the British government following the referendum to leave the EU held in June 2016. From all these numbers it can be deduced that of all British residents in Spain who have obtained their TIE after Brexit, just over 25% live in Alicante and about 18% in Malaga province. In third place, but a long way behind are the Balearic Islands, followed by Barcelona. In Andalucia, the second province after Malaga in which most British residents have applied for TIE cards is Almeria (just over 11,800 or 5.3%). These figures do not include the people who have come from the UK to live in Spain after Brexit on resident visas and who are automatically required to have a general (non-Brexit) TIE as part of Spain's immigration law. Requirements It is worth looking more closely at how this bureaucratic step works for Britons in Spain before Brexit, what the deadlines are, whether it is mandatory or not and what the implications are. On 31 January 2020, the UK left the EU. The terms of the break-up were set out in the Withdrawal Agreement signed by both London and Brussels. By virtue of the agreement, all persons with British nationality and their families who had resided in Spain before the end of the transitional period ending on 31 December 2020 would maintain their rights deriving from European Union law (with the exception of the right to vote and stand for election to the European Parliament). People from the UK who before 31 December 2020 were already listed in Spain's central register of foreigners and already had their green-coloured certificate of registration as a person with free movement within the EU, or a family member card of a national of the EU or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland - could automatically be recognised as beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement, and, if they so wished, could apply at a valid National Police station for a foreigner identity card, or TIE, instead that explicitly states this. Strongly urged to swap Although obtaining this document or swapping from the old EU green card is not mandatory, the authorities strongly advise it, because the document explicitly states that the person is a beneficiary of the Withdrawal Agreement and contains their biometric data. Moreover, it will be a particularly important document when the EU entry and exit system (EES) comes into force at airports and ports: the TIE exempts residents from the need to register for this system. The TIE can be requested at any time, although the British Embassy is urging UK residents who do not have it to do so as soon as possible. It is also possible that some pre-Brexit British residents in Spain were not registered in the central register of EU foreigners and therefore could not show they were automatic beneficiaries of the agreement after Brexit. In such a case, the Spanish regulations give them the possibility to apply for the special TIE by presenting documentary evidence that they were resident in Spain before 31 December, 2020. On a national level, of the 222,061 Britons who have obtained their TIE according to the exit agreement between the EU and the UK, the majority, 171,229, already had their residence authorisation to exchange for the card; the remaining 50,832 did not have a previous registration certificate but have proved that they were residing in Spain before the required date. As applying for a TIE for pre-Brexit Britons is not compulsory, the number of British residents in Spain is likely to be higher. Other figures corroborate this. According to Spain's continuous population survey, as of 1 January, 2024 (the most recent data available), 285,093 people born in the United Kingdom were residing in Spain, a figure very similar to that prior to Brexit (in January 2016 there were 288,166) and prior to their effective exit from the EU (there were 280,477 in January 2020). But the number according to INE statistics is higher than that of those who have applied for a TIE to prove their residence in Spain (222,061). More residents What is happening in Malaga province? The data is not so recent. The latest foreign population data separated by nationality refers to 2022. Then, British nationals resident in this province were just over 56,000 and their number had indeed grown since the year of Brexit (when there were about 51,000). After 2016, the number dropped to 46,563 in 2018, and from there, it grew again. But, there is a gap between the 56,019 residents and the 39,462 who have obtained their new documentation that better proves their right to reside in Malaga as if they were still EU citizens. From the data published by the ministry, it is also clear that the socio-demographic profile of British nationals with the TIE document is quite aged: the largest age group is made up of people aged 65 and over, who represent 35% of the total. Raquel Merino Malaga Friday, 4 April 2025, 14:31 Compartir The Spanish agency for food safety and nutrition (AESAN) has asked the competent authorities of each region in Spain to withdraw the 159917 batch of Choceur's Choco Changer product from supermarket shelves due to the detection of metal fragments. Throughout the country, the chocolate is sold in Aldi supermarkets. The German store chain has already informed customers of the issue, which affects the chocolate bars of the brand's line with an expiry date 21 October 2025. Aldi has asked those customers who have the chocolate bars at home to take them to one of its supermarkets where they will be reimbursed. Zoom In addition, the supermarket chain has made available a telephone helpline number (900 902 466) for any queries. Questions can also be sent via Aldi's web contact form. Side effects of consuming the chocolate Spain's OCU consumers' organisation has explained that consuming metallic fragments could cause some symptoms and discomfort, although "there are no known cases of people who, having eaten these products, have reported adverse problems". However, the OCU recommends keeping an eye out for abdominal, chest or throat pain, as well as fever, vomiting and, in the case of young children, irritability, especially during the first 24 hours, in which case the 112 emergency service operators should be contacted. Melchor Saiz-Pardo Madrid Friday, 4 April 2025, 13:28 Compartir Investigators have now officially confirmed the hypothesis that the fire in the region of Madrid, that led to the death of two firefighters in a residential community garage in the town of Alcorcon, was caused by an accidental collision of an electric Porsche Taycan with a parked car. The accident caused the battery of the vehicle to catch fire. Jesus A., 34, and Sergio B., 27, died in the fire, while 15 other people suffered intoxication from the smoke. The scope of injuries, including the critical condition of one of the firefighters, required a large medical response operation to be mobilised. The fire started around 3.35pm, when one of the residents on Calle de los Lilos, entered the garage. After passing through the first barrier, the vehicle drove straight into another parked car, before reaching the second security gate. The reason behind this strange turn of events is yet to be determined, but investigators believe that it was due to a mix-up between forward and reverse gear. The car's battery immediately burst into flames, causing a big cloud of black smoke in a matter of seconds. The two occupants of the Porsche managed to get out of the car with the help of neighbours. When the first firefighters arrived at the building, the garage was already engulfed in flames and visibility was zero. Other vehicles in the communal garage had started to explode, resulting in damage to seven cars and one motorbike. Four firefighters entered, but part of the roof and one of the security gates collapsed, cutting off the oxygen supply. Three of the men managed to get out alive. One of them returned to try and save his colleague. Both of them perished inside. One of the two surviving firefighters was evacuated to the burns unit of Hospital de Getafe, where he remains in a critical condition. The fourth member of the fire brigade was injured in the collapse, but his condition is stable. The driver of the Porsche was also slightly injured. Pilar Martinez Malaga Friday, 4 April 2025, 11:24 Compartir Thousands of owners of holiday homes are confused and alarmed by the entry into force on Thursday, 3 April, of the modification to Spain's Horizontal Property Law. This update obliges such property owners to have express authorisation from their respective residents' association, which must come with three-fifths of the votes in favour, in order to be able to develop any holiday rental trade. Moreover, this modification is a fundamental step towards complying with the new central government decree to register all such properties on the 'Registro Unico Digital' (a single digital register) before 1 July. This is a regulation that is beginning to be applied with so many uncertainties. For example, there is not even a consensus between property registrars, property owners and the governing authorities as to whether this approval from community neighbours is required only for newly created holiday rentals or for all existing ones. This is an issue that really needs clarifying because it is an essential step to ensuring they can effectively market tourist housing on online platforms from July onwards. The lack of clarity surrounding the decree and the need to safeguard their interests caused an avalanche of registrations on Wednesday this week, which triggered the collapse of the online portal to Spain's association of property registrars, a situation that continued on Thursday morning. Thousands of homeowners struggled until the stroke of midnight to register their properties ahead of the deadline to avoid the obligation to have to make a personal declaration that they have the approval of their residential association, fearing that the registrar on duty would demand it of all the properties as a whole. Andalucia's tourist housing association Avva-Pro places the cause for this panic and rush of registrations squarely on the shoulders of the confusion generated by how property registrars are interpreting the new government regulation. They are the ones who have the power to proceed with the registration in question for the property to go on the Registro Unico Digital, which will determine whether or not the owner can continue to exercise holiday rental activity from 1 July. "We are aware that there is no unanimous interpretation and that there are registrars in several Andalusian provinces who have already warned that this express authorisation from the neighbours will be obligatory for all such properties and others who consider that the law makes it clear that the permission of the neighbours is only essential for new holiday rentals," explains Juan Cubo, president of Avva-Pro. Spain's BOE official state gazette dated 3 January on the modification of the Horizontal Property Law stated that "the owner of a property that is exercising the activity referred to in letter e) of article 5 of Law 29/1994, of 24 November, on Urban Leases, prior to the entry into force of the Organic Law on measures for the efficiency of the Public Justice Service, who has previously applied the sectoral tourism regulations may continue to exercise the activity with the conditions and deadlines established therein." An article that Cubo stressed is the one that clearly determines that the dwellings that are already operational are exempt from needing this express permission from the neighbours, but it seems that not everyone understands it this way. SUR sent this query for clarification to the association of property registrars without receiving a response at the time of publication. The confusion is so great that these residential housing associations have already communicated to Spain's Ministry of Housing the need to clarify the situation as soon as possible. "We are facing a very serious problem. We are being left in the lurch at the mercy of the residents' associations. It is the final straw for the sector", say these owners, who are fearful of what this new regulation will mean for their business. 81,902 tourist properties in the province were registered on the Andalusian tourism register by February and, according to Avva-Pro, only 5% of them thus far have managed to register on the national government's digital one-stop portal - the single digital register. The situation is complicated in Andalucia by the fact that such property owners have already had their tourist licence number issued by the Junta's Turismo department, which required the submission of a 'responsible declaration', a formal declaration that is understood by the licensing authority to mean that there are no objections from the residential community to granting said licence. This is what was understood until now. As of Thursday this week, the Spanish government requires that each property - understood to be each new tourist property - must have the express authorisation of the neighbours. The Junta's regional minister for Tourism, Arturo Bernal, warns that "this creates a problem for the majority of regions that have a procedure in place for registration with Turismo via a responsible declaration and thus how we deal with the effects of the entry into force of the Horizontal Property Law because, as a result of all this nonsense, which is related to the decree on the single digital property register, the inscriptions that do not make it onto the single register will not be able to operate commercially on platforms even if they are on the regional register." In fact, Avva-Pro points out that not even 5% of the nearly 82,000 tourist dwellings in the province registered on the Andalusian tourism register have been able to sign up to the single e-register and yet they must be registered by 1 July in order to stay in business. Gregoria Caro Madrid Friday, 4 April 2025, 07:52 Compartir The vice-president of the general council of associations of veterinary profession of Spain, Gonzalo Moreno del Val, has accused the minister for agriculture, livestock and food, Luis Planas, of creating "problems" following the Royal Decree (RD) 666/2023, which regulates the distribution, prescription, dispensation and use of veterinary medicines, and which is known as the Ley de Medicamentos Veterinarios (veterinary medicines law). Moreno del Val has urged Planas to meet with vets after these professionals demonstrated in front of the government building across Spain last week. The Ministry of Agriculture insists that the royal decree aims to reduce bacterial resistance, although vets argue that this is "ineffective". Moreno del Val said that the veterinary associations have the support of organisations that include PACMA, ASAJA and the Spanish hunting federation, as well as a 200,000-signature petition. "They all perceive the same thing as we do, that animal health and welfare, and with it, public health, are being endangered," he argued. Zoom The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas, speaks during a government control session, 26 March 2025. EFE Moreno del Val said that the decree restricts the administration of antibiotics to animals and leads to public health problems because "it is not effective in reducing bacterial resistance". The Ministry of Agriculture introduced the decree to implement the European regulation 2019/6, which establishes a regulation on veterinary medicines in European Union (EU) countries. However, vets have been complaining for years that the Spanish government's interpretation of the EU regulation is much more restrictive, unjustified and contrary to that of other European countries. "We are criminalised, we are really unaware of the reality of the sector, and there is a lack of a practical, technical and scientific vision," said Moreno de Val. Before the decree came into force, he said Spain had already reduced 70 percent of the antibiotics used in livestock farming. "According to the Ministry of Health, their use in pets represents 0.19 percent of all antibiotics consumed in our country, including those used in humans," Moreno de Val explained, and he claimed that the Ministry of Agriculture considers that the problem of resistance is generated by veterinarians. "PRESVET is therefore not only unnecessary but also excessive because it requires a large amount of information to be communicated that is difficult to justify." Moreno del Val said that the strict monitoring of data sheets and the lack of flexibility in the exceptional prescription of medicines, are "problems due to an erroneous and restrictive interpretation" of the EU regulation. He also said that the mandatory categorisation of antibiotics and the prescription notification system PRESVET (central computerised system for the control of veterinary antibiotic prescriptions) are "problems" added to the decree that "could be solved" by amending it. "PRESVET is therefore not only unnecessary, it is also excessive because it requires a large amount of information to be communicated, which is difficult to justify," he said. The Spanish decree, he argued, "operates as a complementary provision to the European one". Moreno del Val added that the wording of the royal decree "belies the statements made by the minister in which he said that no changes can be made to it, because it follows a common regulatory framework in Europe". He went on to say that the different competent bodies in Spain do not share the same interpretation. The Spanish medicines agency (AEMPS) has a much looser interpretation. Veterinarians' unease with Planas continues to grow. The Ministry of Agriculture says that "goodwill will prevail in the control by the administrations. I must correct them again. The Ministry cannot promise goodwill in what is not even its responsibility. The capacity for inspection and control lies with the regions," warned Moreno del Val. "The rule will end up being interpreted differently in each region, in each province, or even by each inspector," he added, referring to the risk of legal uncertainty around the use of antibiotics in animals. Regina Sotorrio Malaga Friday, 4 April 2025, 15:13 Compartir A vase shaped like a bottom, a mushroom lamp, and a book-shaped chair: three attractive and playful objects signed by international artists Parra, Javier Calleja, and Jean Jullien. These and more can be seen at A World in Objects, an exhibition at La Termica, showcasing over 200 pieces from Case Studyo, a Belgian brand known for blending creativity with renowned artists to create limited-edition objects. The exhibition is open until 29 June. Works by over 70 international artists are gathered on a 20-square-metre table bringing together "tradition and avant-garde", featuring pieces made of ceramic, wrought iron, wood and tapestry, all filtered through the contemporary vision of some of today's most important artists. Antonio Javier Lopez, director of La Termica and co-curator of the show with Mathieu Van Damme, founder of Case Studyo, highlighted the variety of materials and visions. The pieces in the exhibition are visually irresistible, with their vibrant colours, fun shapes, and ironic touches. The surrealist bird-like characters of Dutch illustrator Parra come to life in over thirty objects, ranging from small figures to large sculptures. Parra also designed the vase shaped like a bottom, which contrasts with another vase in the form of a female bust by Genesis Belanger across the table. French graphic artist Jean Jullien is represented by book-shaped chairs, other chairs with flat characters to sit on and lamps with wooden bodies and lightbulb heads. New York-based painter and graphic designer Todd James contributed half a dozen works in bronze, resin, and ceramic, such as a teapot shaped like a woman. Malaga's Javier Calleja is represented by ceramic plant pots with large glass eyes, a signature feature also seen in his mushroom-shaped bedside lamp. Zoom Calleja's lamp and Parra's vase. SUR The stylised hands with rebellious gestures by Japanese illustrator Hajime Sorayama stand out, as do the small 'friends' and 'clouds' by FriendsWithYou. A tapestry by Cristina Banban hangs on the wall, a piece by Felipe Pantone rotates and changes colour, and Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck merge in the creation of HuskMitNavn. These artists were carefully selected by Mathieu Van Damme based on his personal tastes, a perspective that has evolved from graffiti to abstract art. Curators Antonio Javier Lopez and Mathieu Van Damme and pieces from the exhibition. Salvador Salas "It's art, not 'art toys'," Van Damme clarifies. He began his journey with vintage toy collecting, and some early objects may have been closer to that concept, but now, he maintains, calling them "art toys" diminishes their value. Behind each object is a collaborative design process between Van Damme and the artists to create something unique, with a focus on craftsmanship and sustainability. The materials used avoid plastic as much as possible, and the majority of production takes place in Europe, in the Netherlands and Portugal, never in mass quantities. There are series of eight or 100 pieces. It's not exclusive, but almost - providing the only way for many to have a piece by Calleja or Parra in their home. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Today, Azerbaijan supplies natural gas to 12 countries. 10 of them are European, eight of which are members of European Union, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting. Speech by President Ilham Aliyev - Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, dear guests. I welcome you all to Azerbaijan. A special welcome to our guest from Brussels. Mr. Commissioner, welcome. This is the first time you are participating in this event. But as we all know, and as I already said, it is the eleventh time that the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council has gathered in Baku. Initiated by Azerbaijan and supported by the European Commission, this important gathering has played a crucial role in elaborating approaches to energy security, addressing the issues of energy security, and coordinating our joint efforts. And today, while we had a family photo procedure, I said that we will probably need more space for that because the team is growing. And this is a very good sign of our cooperation. The more time passes, the more countries and companies are involved in the process, united with a common goal. First, to strengthen cooperation, because without cooperation none of the energy security projects would be possible. And second, to provide energy security for themselves, their neighbors, and their partners. I think the very positive spirit of partnership and cooperation that unites us is a clear demonstration of our responsibility the responsibility of producers, transitors, and consumers. Of course, the balance of interests between the three major actors of this process, with the support of international financial institutions, made our story or stories success stories. Countries, their governments, investors, companies, and leading international financial institutions this is our team, and the team is growing. It is clear today, more than ever before, that energy security is an integral part of the national security of countries. I would also say that today we can also talk about industrial security, because in order to develop industries, we need energy resources, we need petrochemicals, we need fertilizers. And Azerbaijan is a producer and exporter of crude oil, natural gas, oil products, petrochemicals, and fertilizers. And our energy company, SOCAR, is involved in upstream, downstream, and midstream activities in Azerbaijan and outside our boundaries. Azerbaijan, for many years, was and will be a reliable partner. And as high representatives of the European Commission noted, Azerbaijan is a reliable partner in the field of energy and a pan-European gas supplier. This is true. The geography of our gas supply is growing. Since our last meeting here in Baku, at the 10th Advisory Council, five more countries have become recipients of our natural gas. Today, Azerbaijan supplies natural gas to 12 countries 10 of them are European, and eight of those are members of the European Union. The geography of our gas supply in Europe will definitely grow, because today we are already involved in the creation of gas distribution networks in some European countries. Some of them do not have one, some of them need to expand it, and Azerbaijan, as an investor, is planning to do that. So, the geography of our gas supplies will definitely grow through different ways, including interconnectors. Of course, we need to think about joint efforts in the expansion of the existing gas pipeline system. The Southern Gas Corridor is a tremendous success story for all of us. The 3,500-kilometer integrated pipeline system today is the main artery for energy security for many countries. And now it is working at full capacity. Whether its the South Caucasus Pipeline, TANAP, or TAP three integral parts of the Southern Gas Corridor all are fully packed. So we need to expand. And for that, we will need, of course, financing. And we come to a very important point, which we have raised on several occasions that international financial institutions, those who decided to stop financing fossil fuel projects, will probably reconsider their policy, especially taking into account the huge geopolitical changes that we all witness. Because without that, any further investments in transportation infrastructure and even in upstream will be very problematic. We have great experience in combining corporate financing and borrowed money, which made it possible to implement huge projects of production and transportation. ACG, Shahdeniz, Absheron these are oil and gas fields which today provide energy security for many countries. And many more oil and gas fields will be operational within several years. So, contracts have been signed. The working program has been approved. Construction of pipelines also the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan and Baku-Supsa oil pipelines, as well as the Southern Gas Corridor all that was done in cooperation, as I said, by all the actors. So, when the policy to stop financing fossil fuel projects is introduced, it sends a signal to investors, to companies, to countries, which is not positive. So, I think this is an important moment, which will probably be discussed. We hope that, despite a very ambitious green agenda in Europe, fossil fuel producers and fossil fuel as an important factor of energy security will not be forgotten and will not be discriminated. Actually, that was our message at COP29 when Azerbaijan hosted this global international event that there should be no discrimination, there should be no dividing lines between countries rich in fossil fuels and those who dont have them. On the contrary, countries rich in fossil fuels that invest in renewables must be praised, not attacked. So, I think that if this important issue is addressed, it will make the lives of producers easier. At the same time, the long-term contracts process is also important. Because we all know that energy projects oil and gas need a lot of investments, and you recover investments over many years. By the way, until today, what we invested in the Southern Gas Corridor as a country has still not been recovered. We still have not reached the zero balance. Therefore, we must be sure that our gas will be needed in Europe, which is our main market, for many more years. If we dont have this guarantee, investors will not invest, and the country will not invest. So there will be a big shortage of natural gas. Our reserves are known. We expect new production from new fields this year primarily from the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli Deep Gas Structure. And also, we are, I think, in the final stage of reaching an agreement about the expansion of production from the Absheron Field, moving to Phase 2, which will add a minimum of 3 BCM to the existing 1.5. So, all of this is possible, but it requires, as I said, these two important factors physical transportation infrastructure through interconnectors and through expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, and reliable forecasts and reliable partnership. Because in a partnership, all sides must be reliable. With respect to our green agenda, as I said, we managed to combine these two important factors, satisfying the needs of our consumers. By the way, since Azerbaijan and the European Commission signed a declaration on strategic partnership in the field of energy, our gas supply to Europe has increased by almost 60%. That declaration was signed by the President of the European Commission and myself in mid-2022. In 2021, our gas supply to Europe was about 8 BCM. Last year, it was almost 13. So, it is more than half of our total export, which is 25 BCM, and which will grow. So, it is a substantial amount already today. Taking into account our plans to engage new fields and also to increase production from existing gas fields, we will definitely have much more gas for our consumers. If we add our green agenda, which will save us a lot of natural gas, we can imagine that Azerbaijan will play an even more important role for our partners with respect to energy security. Today, already signed contracts with our investors on Solar and Wind Power stations will allow us to have, by 2030, 6 GW of solar and wind energy. As I said, that will save a lot of natural gas, which we currently use to produce electricity domestically, and all of that will be available for export. We are actively developing this ourselves with our own investments. Regarding hydropower potential today in the territories liberated from Armenian occupation East Zangezur and Karabakh we have already installed 270 megawatts of hydropower stations. More than 30 small hydropower stations have already been inaugurated, and in the next maximum five years, this number will grow up to 500 megawatts, with an additional 30 small hydropower stations. So, that will eventually, by 2030, create an energy potential of 6.5 gigawatts. And just for your information, today Azerbaijans installed capacity is slightly more than eight. So, we will almost double our potential to produce energy from renewables within the next five years. Of course, today I'm sure that at the session of the Green Energy Advisory Council, the green cable from Azerbaijan to Europe will also be discussed. As far as I was informed, the feasibility study of that project is in the final stage. So, after it is fully completed, the practical negotiations will definitely start again with respect to financing. Of course, we can anticipate that there will be no restrictions on financing the green energy project. But I think it will be important to upgrade these projects within European institutions to projects of common interest because that is what they are. So, I will probably conclude now by once again expressing deep satisfaction with the results we have achieved through the active format of our cooperation. Yes, we gather once a year in Baku, but throughout the year there are numerous events, meetings, conferences, and bilateral and multilateral partnership formats, which actually create the synergy. And, as always at the Advisory Council, we review what has been done during the last year and plan our future steps. I wish both councils success. Wegmans and other grocery chains are monitoring the potential effects of President Donald Trump's tariffs. A Wegmans employee does a cooking demonstration and product tasting at the Wegmans Great Northern store in Clay in a file photo. (David Lassman | syracuse.com) David Lassman | syracuse.com Two of Central New Yorks biggest grocery chains are talking about the possible effects of new tariffs imposed this week by President Donald Trump. A statement from Wegmans said the company is monitoring the impacts of the tariffs and exploring ways to help lessen the effects. While the total impact on our business remains unclear, we anticipate prices on impacted products will fluctuate, the statement said, according to WGRZ in Buffalo. We remain committed to keeping our prices competitive and offering our customers the same high quality products theyve come to expect. A spokesperson for Tops Friendly Markets told the station the chain is watching and listening to understand the situation in order to best navigate whatever challenges tariffs might present. Both chains have stores throughout Central New York and across Upstate New York as well. Trump on Wednesday announced tariffs of at least 10% on a vast array of items imported by the United States from a host of countries. Some of the tariffs announced were much higher than 10%. The list of affected goods includes numerous supermarket staples, including produce. Stock markets suffered big losses in the wake of the announcement. The tariffs begin to take effect Saturday. If you own a grocery store, or youre responsible for a grocery store chain, this is a huge issue, said Patrick Penfield, a supply chain expert and Syracuse University professor, according to WGRZ. Its a really difficult day because youre trying to figure out how much everything is going to cost. This is a global supply chain. Its been built that way for the past 70 to 80 years, right? So thats kind of what weve done in business, and sourced globally, to do what we needed to do to provide the lowest price to consumers. All that is out the window. Not all retailers will face the same hit, according to Fortune. Massive chains that order billions of dollars worth of goods from overseas will likely be in a position to negotiate with vendors to limit the tariffs effects. Companies like Costco and Walmart, for example, will be able to pressure their suppliers to absorb more of the new costs because of their large market share, Fortune said. Target is attempting a similar approach, according to Quartz. Trump and his allies have argued that any short-term pain caused by the new taxes will be offset by the future growth and investment that theyll spur in the U.S. Trump has said companies will look to expand their operations here to avoid the tariffs. Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-282-8598 Douglas Smallwood Jr., 24, was arrested with almost a pound of fentanyl in Utica in February 2025. Utica Police Utica, N.Y. A Central New York man had nearly a pound of fentanyl, illegal guns and almost $10,000 in cash when federal investigators searched his home in February, according to a criminal complaint filed this week. Douglas Smallwood Jr., 24, is accused of selling drugs out of his Miller Street home in Utica, according to local police and federal prosecutors. He was charged Thursday with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in the Northern District of New York Court, prosecutors said. In January, Utica police received a tip from an informant that Smallwood was possibly selling fentanyl from an apartment, prosecutors said in a criminal complaint. Investigators had an undercover confidant make a purchase from Smallwood, prosecutors said. The confidant purchased small knotted baggies that tested positive for fentanyl, prosecutors said. In February, the same person made another purchase from Smallwood, prosecutors said. The purchase was again knotted baggies that tested positive for fentanyl, prosecutors said. On Feb. 11, investigators searched a Smallwoods home, prosecutors said. Investigators found 789 baggies that tested positive for fentanyl and weighed 447.6 grams, almost a pound, prosecutors said. They also found three loaded pistols and a device that converts a Glock into a machine gun, according to court papers. Three extended magazines, ammunition, $9,275 and narcotics packing supplies were also recovered, police said. The complaint also alluded to possible sales of drugs from 2021 and 2022 as well but did not say if he was arrested for those incidents. In addition to federal charges, Smallwood also faces charges in Oneida County Court. On the day of the February search, Utica police charged Smallwood with 13 counts, first-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, police said. Staff writer Rylee Kirk covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, photo, question or comment? Reach her at 315-396-5961, on Twitter @kirk_rylee, or rkirk@syracuse.com. Syracuse, N.Y. A man was shot in the leg in Syracuse and dropped off at Upstate University Hospital by his father, according to police and dispatchers. Syracuse police officers went to Upstate University Hospital around 11:45 a.m. for a report of a victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound, according to Kieran Coffey, a spokesperson for the Syracuse police. When police arrived, they found an 18-year-old man suffering from a wound in his thigh, Coffey said. His injuries are considered non-life-threatening, police said. The location of the shooting has not been determined, Coffey said this afternoon. However, police initially said it happened on the rear side of Kirk Park, according to dispatches from the Onondaga County 911 Center. Police ask anyone with information to contact the Syracuse Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at (315) 442-5222. Staff writer Greta Stuckey covers breaking news. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at gstuckey@syracuse.com. Best friends ZahKhyia Lane, 9, and Octavia Gray, 9, hug as they converge on the first day of school at Meachem Elementary School in Syracuse, Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. (N. Scott Trimble | strimble@syracuse.com) N. Scott Trimble | strimble@syracuse.com Millions of dollars could be at stake in Central New York after the Trump administration threatened to withhold federal funding for public schools if they dont meet its demands on diversity, equity and inclusion programs. The 64 school districts in Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga and Oswego counties together received over $324 million in federal funding during the 2022-2023 school year, the most recent year with state Education Department data available. Syracuse, N.Y. Executives from the company that owns the former Skyline Apartments said they spoke with Syracuse officials Thursday and believe they can quickly resolve problems that led the city to seek a court-appointed receiver for the troubled property. But Michael Collins, the citys commissioner of neighborhood and business development, said city officials are not planning to call off the lawsuit they filed Wednesday against Clear Investment Group. Nope, Collins said. Collins said city officials spoke with Chicago-based Clear representatives Thursday to reiterate what needs to be done before electric power can be restored to the vacant building. But they are not backing off their request that a judge appoint a receiver and force Clear to provide $2 million for repairs. Court documents and interviews reveal how the relationship between the city and the developer who officials once embraced as the Skyline savior has deteriorated. Theyre fighting over electricity, the scope of the repairs and even the value of the building. Clear officials said they are eager to work with the city to bring the vacant 12-story apartment complex back to life. Clear bought the property for $13 million two years ago from Tim and Troy Green, who let it deteriorate to the point that city officials sought a court-appointed receiver. Clear was that receiver. Were sitting here spending millions of dollars to open this building, said Amy Rubenstein, Clears CEO. All we want to do is finish this project and get it open. Its not like youre dealing with a distressed owner who doesnt have, you know, the means to get it finished. Were trying to open it. Syracuse officials had hoped that Clear Investment Group would quickly renovate the former Skyline, a sprawling 352-unit complex that suffered years of neglect under the Greens. Clear took over in the spring of 2023, promising $4.6 million in renovations and renaming the complex The Metropolitan. But the property has languished. It remains vacant in the midst of a housing crisis. Company officials notified the city in October that they had renovated apartments on two floors of the 12-story building and were ready to start renting. But the citys code enforcement director, Ryan Shiel, said the company must first provide proof that the fire alarms, sprinkler system, boilers and elevators had all been repaired and inspected, according to emails submitted with the citys lawsuit. In the lawsuit filed this week, Shiel said Clear had not made much progress with renovations. In my opinion no work has been completed on the premises, Shiel wrote in an affidavit. Rubenstein said Clear suffered a setback earlier this year when a thief stole copper pipes from the building and caused a water leak. No sooner had they cleaned up from that leak than a second leak occurred in a standpipe part of the water system for fighting fires that caused massive damage. That leak in the unheated building went undetected for days city officials say it may have been weeks causing widespread damage. Rubenstein said the best-case scenario would be that the company could repair damage from the flood and be ready to rent apartments two months from now. The company is waiting for the city to allow electricity to be restored to undertake the work. But communications with the city have been strained for weeks. Clear officials have been in daily communication with the city since the flood, Rubenstein said. But much of that communication looked like this, according to email record submitted to the court: We have been asking for a call, wrote Lindsay Rodriguez, a Clear official. Please lets get on a call. I can send it out. What time works best? Collins responded: Lindsay, Ryan (Shiel) has clearly laid out what needs to happen for power to be turned on. That doesnt change through conversation. Let us know when that work will be completed. Rodriguez: Michael, the items he is requesting will not work without power. No one can do anything with a generator which is why we need a call. What is the issue with getting a call to discuss? Collins: That is incorrect. Let us know when the items have been addressed. Rubenstein said after Thursdays phone call she is confident the two sides can improve communications. Clear representatives expect to speak with city officials again Monday. Theyve told us theyre going to go back and figure it out so that we can resolve this on Monday, she said. Coincidentally, Clear Investment Group filed a lawsuit of its own Thursday, seeking a lower tax assessment for the former Skyline building. The companys suit claims the vacant 352-unit building is only worth $1.5 million, roughly 11% of what Clear paid for it two years ago. City assessors have assigned the property a full market value of $15.4 million. The tax dispute is unrelated to the city lawsuit seeking a receivership. The bare-bones tax complaint filed Thursday by Clear does not provide documentation to justify the requested 90% cut in assessment. This is the second year the company has sued for a lower assessment. Last year, Clear only sought a 9.3% reduction. That case remains pending. The Skyline property is one of four apartment complexes Clear bought in 2023 from the Greens, after city officials persuaded a judge to appoint a receiver. Because of the squalid condition of the Green properties, a judge in a separate court case later barred Troy Green from owning affordable housing in New York state. All told, Clear spent nearly $21 million buying the properties and planned to sink another $7.7 million in renovations, according to a 2024 prospectus for investors. The plan was to sell the properties after three years or so for a profit of about $15 million. Two of the four complexes have been renovated and are almost fully rented, according to company officials. A third complex, the former Vincent Apartments off Jamesville Avenue, rebranded by Clear as the Summit Apartments, is undergoing repairs now, Rodriguez said. But the three-year plan appears to be off track for the biggest complex, the former Skyline, which Clear has rebranded The Metropolitan. To say the least, this has not been a fun 24 hours for us, Rubenstein said. Theres been a lot of miscommunication." Staff writer Tim Knauss can be reached at tknauss@syracuse.com or (315) 470-3023. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli, Shahdeniz, and Absheron provide energy security for many countries, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting, Trend reports. Many more oil and gas fields will become operational within several years. Contracts have been signed, and the working program has been approved. The construction of pipelines such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Jeyhan and Baku-Supsa oil pipelines, and the Southern Gas Corridor - was carried out in cooperation, as I said, by all the actors, the head of state added. Older New Yorkers lost $23,000 per hour to financial exploitation in 2023 according to FBI data. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File) AP The schemes vary. There are the callers posing as a grandchild in distress; messages that warn of unpaid taxes or tolls; lottery winnings you forgot to claim. One common ploy begs you to buy a bunch of Target gift cards and send the barcodes. Theyre all scams. Theyve become familiar to almost anyone with a smartphone - a daily annoyance that pops into your inbox. But theres a reason they keep coming: The scams work, particularly on older people. In Onondaga County in 2023, financial scams cost seniors more than $4.1 million, according to data from the FBI. That was more than any other county in upstate New York. The average loss here was more than $50,000 per person and the crimes affected at least 81 people. Those are just the cases authorities know about. Gov. Kathy Hochuls proposed budget includes legislation aimed at stopping fraud as it happens. She wants to amend business, banking and social services law to empower bank employees to place temporary holds on transactions they suspect are related to scams. It would also create a link between the banks, adult protective services and law enforcement to record and track reported scams. The scams disproportionately impact senior citizens. Kortney Wloch, the director of elder abuse and justice at Vera House, told syracuse.com there was a 10% increase in local cases in 2024. These scams hit older adults disproportionately hard, resulting in devastating financial loss, loss of trust, and gut-stomping shame, Wloch wrote. AARP has pushed legislators to support Hochuls proposed legislation. Kristin McManus, the associate state director of AARP New York, said this approach to stopping elder fraud is effective because bank tellers know when customers are acting irregularly, but theyre typically powerless to stop it under current law. We know that many banks are doing this training on their own, but its different from bank to bank, she said. We dont think that somebody should have a different level of protection depending on who they choose to bank with. Instead of the Herculean task of recovering money lost to scams, the legislation would stop the transfers from happening altogether, McManus said. New York State Senator Rachel May, who represents Syracuse and parts of Onondaga County, is in favor of addressing elder fraud via the banks but has issues with the governors proposal. She says legislators are trying to create a mechanism that recognizes fraud without placing an undue burden on people. It feels way too broad for me that it just says anyone over 60 could have a hold put on their account if the bank thinks that there are suspicious transactions going on, May said. There need to be a lot more careful guardrails on that, especially because theyre talking about a 50-day hold, which could really wreak havoc on somebodys finances if you couldnt get into your account for that period of time. One of the most common schemes targeting seniors is the grandparent scam. Posing as grandchildren or other family member, scammers use voice-cloning technology to fake emergency calls and ask seniors to make urgent wire transfers or gift card payments. Once a wire transfer is made, the money is often untraceable and gone forever. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods because of AI tools. They are now able to take videos and pictures of family members from social media to create convincing deep fakes mimicking loved ones. No matter how well-informed people might be about the threats of financial fraud, these scams can catch older adults off guard and drive them to rash financial decisions, McManus said. In 2023, older New Yorkers lost $23,000 per hour to financial exploitation, the FBI data shows. I think the numbers are pretty damning, McManus said. Though new technology has contributed to the statewide uptick in losses, the situation in Onondaga County can also be attributed to a larger population of older people, McManus said. Between 2011 and 2021, the 65-and-over population grew by 28.8%, according to an August 2023 report from the Center for an Urban Future. Census data from 2024 shows that around one in five people in Onondaga County is over over the age of 65. Poverty also plays a role in the higher rates of scams, McManus said. More than one in five seniors in the city of Syracuse live below the poverty line, according to the report. With a larger and poorer older adult population, McManus said AARP sees a financial security crisis that needs to be addressed immediately. When we talk about affordability, its not just making sure that people get money in their pockets, but also letting them keep the money that they already have, McManus said. Gov. Hochuls budget was initially due Tuesday, but the legislature approved a two-day extension as lawmakers debate several policy items. This extender allows state operations to continue until a budget is finalized. May said she knows concerns about the legislation have come from disability rights organizations. If legislators cant resolve these concerns in the budget, they will work to pass elder scams protection through as separate legislation, she said. I hope we will get to a place with this, said May, who chairs the states consumer protection committee. We really are trying to make it so its not unduly onerous. Former President Barack Obama speaks during a moderated discussion with Hamilton College President Steven Tepper during the colleges Sacerdote Great Names Series event in Scott Field House at Hamilton College on Thursday, April 3, 2025, in Clinton, N.Y. (Nancy L. Ford Photography | Courtesy Hamilton College) NANCY L. FORD PHOTOGRAPHY Clinton, N.Y. -- In a talk at Hamilton College tonight, former President Barack Obama blasted President Donald Trumps attacks on universities, law firms and free speech. Obama spoke just hours after stock markets posted their worst day since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic five years ago. NEW YORK (AP) A New York City man has been charged with performing medical procedures without a license after a patient was left near death during a botched butt-implant removal procedure in his home, prosecutors and law enforcement officials said Thursday. Felipe Hoyos-Foronda injected the 31-year-old woman with the local anesthetic lidocaine, causing her to go into cardiac arrest on March 28, according to a criminal complaint. The woman was taken from Hoyos-Forondas Queens home to a hospital, where a doctor said she is not expected to survive, the filing said. The victim, who has not been named, has no brain activity and shows evidence of lidocaine toxicity, the doctor said. Hoyos-Foronda, 38, was apprehended at JFK International Airport attempting to board a flight, authorities said. Prosecutors said he was arraigned Sunday on charges of assault and unauthorized practice of a profession and was held without bail. His lawyer didnt respond to email and phone messages seeking comment Thursday. Hoyos-Foronda promoted a range of cosmetic procedures on his TikTok account, where he also sometimes identified himself as a doctor. One recent post touts his prices for Botox, lip fillers and body sculpting. Another post shows him using a machine on a woman that he claims, in text written in Spanish, as a safe and painless method to shape ones glutes, or butt muscles. Other posts suggest he also offered his services in Miami. Earlier this year, a Manhattan aesthetician was charged with injecting customers with counterfeit Botox at his medical spa after some of them complained that it made them sick. In 2018, a Manhattan man posing as a doctor was sentenced to up to 12 years in jail after pleading guilty in the death of a woman during a botched silicone butt-implant procedure. In 2015, a former madam who performed illegal body sculpting in the Philadelphia area was sentenced to 10 to 20 years in prison after the death of a dancer whose heart stopped after nearly half a gallon of silicone was injected into her buttocks. WASHINGTON (AP) The Trump administration is planning to halt more than half a billion dollars in contracts and grants awarded to Brown University, adding to a list of Ivy League colleges that have had their federal money threatened as a result of their responses to antisemitism, a White House official said Thursday. Nearly $510 million in federal contracts and grants are on the line, said the official, who was not authorized to speak publicly about the plan and spoke on condition of anonymity. In an email Thursday to campus leaders, Brown Provost Frank Doyle said the university was aware of troubling rumors about government action on its research money. At this moment, we have no information to substantiate any of these rumors, Doyle said. Brown would be the fifth Ivy League college targeted by President Donald Trumps administration, which is using federal money to enforce its agenda at colleges. Dozens of universities including every Ivy League school except Penn and Dartmouth are facing federal investigations into antisemitism following a wave of pro-Palestinian protests last year. Columbia University was the first one targeted, losing $400 million in federal money with threats to terminate more if it didnt make the campus safer for Jewish students. The school agreed to several demands from the government last month, including an overhaul of student discipline rules and a review of the schools Middle East studies department. The government later suspended about $175 million in federal funding for the University of Pennsylvania over a transgender swimmer who previously competed for the school. On Monday, a federal antisemitism task force said it was reviewing almost $9 billion in federal grants and contracts at Harvard University amid an investigation into campus antisemitism. And on Tuesday, Princeton University said the administration had halted dozens of its research grants. The pressure has created a dilemma for U.S. colleges, which rely on federal research funding as a major source of revenue. Trumps administration has promised a more aggressive approach against campus antisemitism, accusing former President Joe Biden of letting schools off the hook. It has opened new investigations at colleges and detained and deported several foreign students with ties to pro-Palestinian protests. An incoming assistant professor of medicine at Brown was deported to Lebanon last month for having openly admitted to supporting a Hezbollah leader and attending his funeral, the Department of Homeland Security said. During last school years campus protests against the Israel-Hamas war, Brown stood out for a deal it struck with student activists. In exchange for the students dismantling an encampment, the university committed to having its governing board vote on whether to divest from companies that protesters said were facilitating Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. The Corporation of Brown rejected the divestment proposal. The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. President of the Republic of Gambia Adama Barrow sends a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports. His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Your Excellency, On the occasion of the Holy month of Ramadan, I am honored to extend my warmest greetings to you, your government, and the people of the Republic of Azerbaijan, on behalf of the people and the Government of the Republic of the Gambia and on my own behalf. May this blessed month bring you, your family, and the brotherly people of Azerbaijan, abundance, peace, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment. Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, devotion, and compassion. It is a moment to strengthen our faith, seek the mercy of the Almighty, and renew our commitment to serving humanity. As we observe this sacred month, may the Almighty Allah shower His countless blessings upon the entire Muslim Ummah. While renewing my best wishes, please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration and esteem. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. Applications Open for Second Specialist Agrifood Innovation Programme at UCD Lyons Farm University College Dublin (UCD) and Teagasc have today announced that applications are now open for the second Food and Agriculture Sustainable Technology Innovation Programme (FAST-IP) which begins this September. FAST-IP, a specialist agrifood technology innovation programme, provides participants with the skills necessary to evaluate, select and validate ideas for new products and services in the agrifood sector, and to accelerate the commercialisation pathway of these ideas. Aligned with Irelands national agrifood strategy, Food Vision 2030, FAST-IP also aims to support establishing Ireland as a leader in sustainable food systems by balancing climate-smart agriculture, environmental and economic sustainability, and innovation. Participants on the inaugural programme, which ends in August, are currently developing business plans for new market ready innovations in areas ranging from soil health, food allergens, pest control and bioeconomy. Twelve (12) places are available on the full-time, 12-month, in-person programme, aimed at mid-career professionals, which is delivered by the UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, in partnership with Teagasc, at the AgTechUCD Innovation Centre at UCD Lyons Farm in Co. Kildare. FAST-IP provides participants with a 38,000 tax-free scholarship during the programme. Edel Mitchell, Programme Manager, FAST-IP, said, We are delighted to open applications for our second FAST-IP programme. This is a wonderful opportunity for mid-career professionals to embrace their entrepreneurial ambitions and develop market led solutions to real problems experienced by the global agrifood sector. The practical needs led innovation process enables participants to deep dive and forensically understand pressing challenges for the agrifood sector and build innovative solutions. If you are interested in embarking on this journey and leveraging the unparallelled access to industry experts, mentorship and cross sectoral immersive opportunities I would encourage you to apply for the FAST-IP programme. FAST-IP uses design-thinking methodologies and has a practical focus. Through the programme participants, working in teams, learn how to conduct needs-led innovation to develop market validated solutions to unmet needs in the areas of agricultural technology and food sustainability sectors. Participants also spend 8-10 weeks immersed in agricultural environments including farms, food processing companies, and Teagasc locations throughout the 12-month programme. Dr Siobhan Jordan, Head of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation, Teagasc, said, FAST-IP aims to position Ireland as a global innovator in AgTech and food systems by fostering the creation of high-potential start-ups, scalable businesses and sustainable solutions that address challenges in areas including, climate change, food security, productivity and economic diversification. We are now seeking applications from mid-career individuals who are interested in embarking on this cutting-edge, immersive programme to create innovative, sustainable agri-food solutions with expert mentorship and entrepreneurial training by UCD and Teagasc. FAST-IP is accredited by UCD at Level 9 on the National Qualifications Framework and participants who complete the programme will be awarded a Graduate Diploma in Agrifood, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Professor Nick Holden, Professor of Biosystems Engineering in the UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering is the Academic Director of the Graduate Diploma Programme. The FAST-IP programme, running until the end of 2029, forms part of Enterprise Irelands Innovators Initiative which is co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. UCD and Teagasc have strong reputations for academic and research excellence in the areas of Sustainable Food Systems, Agriculture, and Food Science, and are utilising their extensive networks, connections, domain expertise, entrepreneurial experience, and track-record for supporting, fostering and spinning out start-ups to deliver the FAST-IP programme. The AgTechUCD Innovation Centre, which is part of NovaUCD, is focused on promoting and accelerating early-stage start-ups and SMEs with disruptive innovations in the agri, agtech, agrifood, equine and veterinary sectors, as they build their innovative businesses into leading enterprises creating jobs. Pictured at the far left are Zara Lonergan and Anton Pluschke, Enterprise Ireland and at the far right James Healy and Karen Dawson, Teagasc with participants in the inaugural FAST-IP programme FAST-IP is supported under the Innovators Initiative Programme co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme 2021-2027. For further information and to apply for the next FAST-IP programme visit: https://www.ucd.ie/innovation/fast-ip/ #euinmyregion Ministers Heydon and Grealish open building extension in Teagasc Moorepark Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Food Promotion, New Markets, Research and Development, Noel Grealish TD have opened a new 3.17 million facility at Teagasc Moorepark. The extension to the Paddy O Keeffe Innovation Centre for the advancement of Irish Grassland and Dairying is set to enhance Teagasc capacity in research for the Irish agri-food sector. Pictured in Teagasc Moorepark, Fermoy, Co Cork at the official opening of a 3.17 million extension to the Paddy O Keeffe Innovation Centre for the advancement of Irish Grassland and Dairying to enhance Teagascs capacity in research for the Irish agri-food sector are: Noel Grealish TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for research, Professor Frank OMara, Teagasc Director; Martin Heydon TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Professor Laurence Shalloo, Teagasc Head of the Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation programme and Dr Emer Kennedy, Teagasc Senior Research Officer. Photo OGorman Photography. Official opening of a 3.17 million extension to the Paddy O Keeffe Innovation Centre for the advancement of Irish Grassland and Dairying to enhance Teagascs capacity in research for the Irish agri-food sector. The new development was officially opened by Ministers Heydon and Grealish in a ceremony attended by stakeholders from across the agri-food industry, research community, and local government. Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Heydon said: My Department in collaboration with the Irish Agri Food sector will continue to invest in science-based solutions in order for the agricultural sector to embrace the challenges and opportunities it faces now and into the future. My Department is happy to support the investment in research and innovation facilities, helping to underpin the development of the Agri Food Sector. Minister of State Grealish said: I am delighted to mark the opening of this 3.17 million extension to the Paddy O Keeffe Innovation Centre for the advancement of Irish Grassland and Dairying. The extension will provide important new facilities for researchers and associated support staff, many of whom are working on projects funded by my own Department. It will ensure that Ireland continues to stand out globally as a leader in sustainable, competitive and technologically driven grassland dairy research. Funded in part by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, this modern facility reflects the governments continued commitment to investing in Irelands agricultural research and development infrastructure. The building is part of the Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation centre in Moorepark which is located just outside Fermoy, County Cork. The area of the building is 658 m2 resulting in a space that can accommodate up to 50 staff and research students and contains: Modern office facilities Collaborative work areas for research teams Environmentally sustainable design features Enhanced facilities for stakeholder engagement and outreach The new facility will be used to accommodate researchers, post doctorate researchers and post graduate students. This facility will allow Teagasc to expand its programme and invest in science based solutions for the agri-food sector in Ireland. The new facilities were required as a result in an expansion of the research programme at Teagasc Moorepark particularly with the recently announced phase 2 of VistaMilk resulting in additional people being based at Teagasc Moorepark. Professor Frank O Mara, Director of Teagasc said: Investment in facilities underpins the research programme in Teagasc and allows greater ambition when planning research activities. It is just 10 years since the Paddy O Keefe Innovation Centre was first opened and since then, the research programme has grown from strength driven by ever changing challenges in the Agri food industry. The facility is now fully operational and at capacity and will support Teagascs ongoing work in delivering science-based solutions for the Irish agri-food sector. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Senegal Bassirou Diomaye Faye on the occasion of Senegal's national holiday Independence Day, Trend reports. "Dear Mr. President, On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to you and your people on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Senegal - Independence Day. We place great importance on the relations between Azerbaijan and Senegal. The friendship established between our countries has opened up favorable opportunities for the development of our cooperation across various sectors. I believe that by leveraging existing opportunities and through our joint efforts, we can strengthen our interstate relations and expand our cooperation both bilaterally and multilaterally. On such a remarkable day, I wish you robust health, happiness, success in your endeavors, and the friendly people of Senegal everlasting peace and prosperity," the letter reads. NiInJa Senior - BHPian Join Date: Sep 2012 Location: Pune Posts: 1,219 Thanked: 4,790 Times Re: Emigrating to a Foreign Land! Quote: ArjunPadmakumar Originally Posted by As someone who is 28 and has seen my entire peer group move to EU, CA, USA, Japan, GCC, Australasia and South East Asia I feel absolutely devastated on my choice to stay back in India. Unless you are 1.rich 2.absolutely stellar in Academics 3.In the Government 4.flourishing field like IT you are totally done in here For all the experiences you mentioned, I can counter it with examples in my friend group who have made it really big starting from Zero in India (and hence put confidence in India's success story), but that is not the point. The best part of moving out of India after spending a good amount of adult time there is that it makes you ready to deal with any challenges (except knife attacks and mugging when walking on empty streets ). When you go abroad and start living in peaceful environments, you will laugh at the kind of first-world problems people have, how small deviations in their usual routines will stress them out and lose their minds. The tolerance/perseverance levels of people of India is much much higher, and it will work in your favor. If you have thrived in the chaos of India, the peace and calm of a developed country will at times unsettle you, which is a good problem to have. Best of luck for your future. It only gets better from here. P.S. Just a note for people looking to migrate: Also consider living for some time in developing South-East Asian countries like Vietnam and Indonesia. The IT sector (especially app development) is booming there just the way it was booming in India 10 year's ago when the app market had just started consolidating to become super-apps of today. Most companies have their HQs in Singapore and if you have good coding/management skills, you will get paid in top Singapore dollar in Vietnam/Indonesia, this along with a similar income disparity of India, you can live a lavish life there, more lavish than living in UK or Europe. (Based on a true story of a close friend of mine who is living the best life in Indonesia) Just a word of caution, not just India, but to flourish anywhere in the world, you will have to be better than others at a few things. I've seen my peers move to other countries, the average Joes are, at best, promising a better life for their kids, while the smart ones are making it big abroad. Some who were average Joes did lot of hard-work to become exceptional in their field. So while your decision to move out is good, do know that it is not the only thing needed for succeeding outside India. Struggle is always there, in some form or the other.For all the experiences you mentioned, I can counter it with examples in my friend group who have made it really big starting from Zero in India (and hence put confidence in India's success story), but that is not the point.The best part of moving out of India after spending a good amount of adult time there is that it makes you ready to deal with any challenges (except knife attacks and mugging when walking on empty streets). When you go abroad and start living in peaceful environments, you will laugh at the kind of first-world problems people have, how small deviations in their usual routines will stress them out and lose their minds. The tolerance/perseverance levels of people of India is much much higher, and it will work in your favor. If you have thrived in the chaos of India, the peace and calm of a developed country will at times unsettle you, which is a good problem to have.Best of luck for your future. It only gets better from here.P.S. Just a note for people looking to migrate: Also consider living for some time in developing South-East Asian countries like Vietnam and Indonesia. The IT sector (especially app development) is booming there just the way it was booming in India 10 year's ago when the app market had just started consolidating to become super-apps of today. Most companies have their HQs in Singapore and if you have good coding/management skills, you will get paid in top Singapore dollar in Vietnam/Indonesia, this along with a similar income disparity of India, you can live a lavish life there, more lavish than living in UK or Europe. (Based on a true story of a close friend of mine who is living the best life in Indonesia) Last edited by NiInJa : 31st March 2025 at 15:37 . Tony2298 BHPian Join Date: Dec 2021 Location: India Posts: 212 Thanked: 1,327 Times Hyundai i20 Ownership Review| Welcoming my 4th Hyundai Wish all of you an auspicious Gudi Padwa/Ugadi! Hope this year brings you all happiness and good health. Today, I finally took ownership of my new wheels and let me give a spoiler alert, I'm totally in love with it already! Background Our journey with Hyundai started almost since the inception of the OEM in India. If you all remember, the plethora of ads which Hyundai made along with SRK to familiarise the Indian audience with their brand and later launched a car, perfectly tailor made for India, the Santro. It was a beautiful piece of engineering IMHO. The 1.1L 4cylinder epsilon engine had extremely good NVH and short gearing made it perfect for pottering around city, plus the car had loads of space and even had quite chiller of an air con. No doubt it was a smashing hit and one which established Hyundai as a household name in India. https://youtu.be/93iXFF89qX8?si=tlOW_QAJiHDfo2YM My maternal uncle gifted my grandpa a beautiful red Hyundai Santro back during the springs of 2000(oh, so wonderful time to live life!). My grandparents meticulously took care of the car as it became embodiment of their son and got it regularly serviced at Hyundai ASC only. The car was kept by us for a long time but sadly, its paperworks were totally out of order and nobody was interested in retaining the car(except me but who cares) and the car was sold for as good as scrap but I tracked the owner and saw the car again recently and I wouldn't like to comment much about it but all I can say is the car is still in running condition. The story continues when I bought my first car, the 1st gen Hyundai i20 Asta. Another beautiful piece of engineering, it was clearly made for Euro markets, no doubt about that, the doors and overall construction was so high quality, it showed why it scored a perfect 5star EuroNCAP crash safety rating, plus it being a Hyundai, was generously equipped with gizmos and had stuff even unheard in luxury sedans during those times! The car served me faithfully for all these years and even helped me in saving my life many a times, when I was fatally injured and ambulance never arrived on the spot, it was my i20 which helped me out and if it were not for the car, I wouldn't have been alive today! As life progressed, decided to indulge and reward myself a SUV. Saw many, many cars but at the end, zeroed in upon, the Hyundai Tucson CRDi 4WD A/T in Phantom Black shade! The reason was simple, more than anything else, it was a car which punched way above its weight. Both the machines are so damn terrific! It has been one of the best purchases of mine, I've done so many long trips with it and each time I get behind the wheel, it makes me so happy and thank my lucky stars that I'm owning this masterpiece! Now coming to this time around, when I finally decided to upgrade my old i20, initially it was not Hyundai which was in my mind since I did want to try out other brands too. Cars considered Honda Amaze ZX MT- I've been an admirer of Honda for a long time, some of their cars viz the 8th gen Civic, Accord 3.5V6 and CRV 4WD are still one of the most sought after cars for someone looking for luxury and reliability along with some FTD quotient. Therefore I decided to give a try to Honda. Sadly, however for some reason or other, I wasn't even given a TD of the 3rd gen Amaze. One dealership even blatantly refused to give me a TD even though they had 2 new TD Amaze cars. Then there was the cars' average exteriors and boring interiors, all in all I felt like compromising too much, just for a Honda badge and i-VTEC engine, therefore dropped it. Maruti Dzire- This was one car which genuinely impressed me totally and in fact I loved it way more than the Amaze. The exteriors looked smashing, the interior was quite nicely designed and was loaded to gills with features, plus, MSIL surprised us all with a perfect 5star rating which is truly commendable. The 3cylinder engine is also quite good with extremely well controlled NVH, loads of low end torque which along with an extremely light clutch made city driving a breeze. I won't delve into further details as I had already penned my initial impressions in respective thread and will crosspost the link to the same.https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/offic...ml#post5909893 (2024 Maruti Dzire Review) Cutting to the chase, after giving some thought, I booked the Dzire ZXI+ MT in Pearl Arctic White shade, I was initially given a waiting period of approximately 45days but was assured of delivery before that, also I've to say, the whole dealership and SA were always very cordial with me throughout, top marks to MSIL there! However, where MSIL betrayed us which left me totally shattered, was the fact when they suddenly decided to launch the new Dzire in commercial segment as TourS when even though they clearly said they wouldn't during the launch of the new Dzire. Yes, I do understand a big chunk of MSIL sales comes from commercial segment only and everybody does things for the best of their interest only but this led to increased demand and subsequent production constraints which led to rationing the production of ZXI+ models and prioritising the production of CNG models and this took a toll for customers who had booked the ZXI+ variant as MSIL increased waiting period extending to more than 16weeks for the higher-end variant!! I absolutely needed a car as Tucson was being overused for both highways and short commutes within the congested city, with which I wasn't at all comfortable with. Therefore, with a heavy heart, dropped the booking of the new Dzire but I'll still say, it's a fantastic machine and one which I wholly recommend even above the Amaze! Therefore, was again back to square one but I decided enough is enough, will now speed up the entire process and close the topic once and for all now. Honestly, I wasn't keen to overspend and also go for mainstream brands only with good after sales and service support. After some thought, it was clear, all the ways were leading me towards my trusted loyal brand only, Hyundai. I don't like the Aura at all and therefore chose the i20. The variant I finalised was the 1.2L NA petrol with simple 5MT because simply speaking, it perfectly suited my requirement since for anything else, I always have a 2000cc CRDi beast with 185BHP/400Nm at my disposal at all times already in my garage. The variant I selected is the Asta(O) top-end variant since I didn't wanna lose out on anything and I always prefer top end variant for whichever vehicle I buy. Even my 2012 Honda Aviator scooter is top VX model with front disc brakes! Plus it was only the high end variant which had rear wash wipe feature, a non-negotiable for me considering the amount of monsoon we receive here in MH. Regarding dealer, even though there are a zillion dealers in my city, I finalised on the oldest dealership of the city, the very same one from where my uncle picked up the Santro for my grandpa 25years ago! The people were rather professional, if not very friendly or cordial like MSIL but I don't have any complaints or grudges against any of them as they delivered all their promises and then some. They gave me a rather good deal, initially I wanted to opt for insurance by myself but later they gave me a cool discount on the insurance and therefore, agreed, plus their final offer included 4th year extended warranty and some basic accessories too. Upon asking for loyalty benefits, they clearly said, Hyundai doesn't have any loyalty bonus for i20 which is sad considering there are many loyal customers of like me who should be honoured in some form considering we're still choosing them despite having so many options. Still, upon my further insistence, the GM agreed to throw in 11,000Rs worth of free accessories, underbody coating etc to which I gave them a counter offer of giving me complimentary Shield of Trust running repair package which includes replacement of wear and tear parts viz brake pads, suspension arms, wipers etc for a period of 4years/45k kms to which they agreed. Plus, during final payment, they reduced the pricing by another 5k! That's why I didn't even bother to call any other dealer and closed the deal with them only. The car was booked and next morning itself I received a message, of the car being billed and loaded, VIN was also shared, as much as I was excited, I became a bit skeptical of the car being an old stock sitting idle at Hyundai's yard which was being given to me, also since the VIN was 17digit code only, it was not possible to know the month of manufacturing, the year of manufacturing though was 2025 itself. Therefore, kept faith in God and waited for the car, also I did want to carry out PDI by Zekardo but was prohibited by the dealership as according to them, its not permitted by Hyundai itself, I took things with a pinch of salt but decided to wait for the car, see it in person and then decide. They however did allow me to inspect the car by myself in as much depth as I wanted before final payment which was fair enough IMO. The car arrived couple of days later and was informed by the SA, that it was a fresh, March manufactured model, Phew! Upon visual inspection, the car was as fresh as it could be, all the plastics and trims intact, the tyres absolutely brand new, again March25 manufactured only. The interiors were having that delectable new car smell, the tapes etc were all intact as well and odo read just 25kms(distance from yard to showroom). I felt a nice vibe with the car and was totally convinced of it, cleared the entire payment then and there itself and asked SA to carry out the rest of formalities. In the meantime, had to leave the city due to my work schedule and therefore my initial preferred delivery date of 28th March(birthday of my respected elder brother) wasn't possible as I was able to return during evening of 29th only. However, the SA continued to process things from his side. Insurance was issued by my preferred company only and there were some minor corrections in the address which was promptly endorsed. The RTO work was also complete by 29th afternoon, however due to it being a weekend and subsequent Gudi Padwa and Eid, there was a hell lot of demand of HSRPs and therefore it would take a couple of days since I receive the plate. Delivery Day The night before the delivery day I didn't even get a wink of sleep even though the whole day was quite exhausting for me and was just stalking her photo in my phone and having a grin plastered on my face . Visited the showroom during noon hours, everything was arranged properly by the showroom and since it was a festival all the stuff was prepared accordingly. The HSRP hadn't arrived by then and SA promised for a home fitment whenever it would arrive which was fair enough for me, in the meantime they stuck paper plates as makeshift arrangement. The delivery experience was FANTASTIC. Apart from the usual unveiling ceremony, the showroom arranged for a thorough puja ceremony too and car was already decorated with a garland, photo session was also done however unfortunately there was a power outage at that moment itself and dealership couldn't make the photo frame but the SA promised me to deliver it when he would come for HSRP installation. There she's like an adorable bride wearing her beautiful white wedding gown, waiting for me! Apart from all of this, the showroom was kind enough to give us some freebies, a box of chocolates and a really delicious chocolate cake too! From our side we gave a box of sweets to them as a token of appreciation. The delicious cake, arranged by them only to honour the birthday of my elder brother! Final checks done, owners' manual filled, we drove off and what a surreal experience it was, I just couldn't describe in words! Headed to the designated fuel bunk to redeem 5L fuel voucher, however since I wanted to fill her up with Shell didn't do any top up and headed straight to nearest Shell bunk and filled her up to the brim. The first song to be played will be none other than my favourite artist, KK, we miss you sir, please come back and give us some more evergreen songs, please! Her first proper meal, hope she likes it! Just look at her eyes and that smile, seems like she too has taken a liking towards me! Headed out to Lemon Tree and had some Chinese which I must say was delicious! Since it was a Sunday l decided to go to M.G Road and do some window shopping or so I thought! Now while roaming I don't know what got inside me but I decided to become totally foolish and behave immature and went inside Apple Store, which was bustling with customers owing to auspicious occasion, I was already quite frustrated with my current iPhone 13 which was just causing me so much trouble that I had to always rely on ZFold and over stressing it and therefore decided to bite the bullet. Initially, the Cashify agent quoted quite a low ball offer for my iPhone13 citing severely degraded battery health but the body was absolutely in pristine condition without any dents or cracks, therefore negotiated a bit with him and since I'm a loyal customer of that specific store, we finally settled on a fair enough resale. I initially decided to buy the 256GB variant of the 16Pro since my Fold is already having massive 512GB capacity, however the sales guy(a known buddy of mine) suggested me to upgrade to 512GB and upon deeper thoughts I too decided to upgrade the storage since it would future proof my iPhone as I really don't wanna spend on cellphones for long time now. Asked for further negotiations and was given a very good deal for the iPhone and to further sweeten the deal, the sales buddy also threw in a couple of freebies too. I couldn't be happier enough today! What a better way to test out the camera of my new iPhone than to click some photos of a beautiful model like my brand new i20. Just look at her eyes, she's gonna kill me with her sexy looks! Even her derriere is so damn curvy and sexy! Hello allWish all of you an auspicious Gudi Padwa/Ugadi! Hope this year brings you all happiness and good health.Today, I finally took ownership of my new wheels and let me give a spoiler alert, I'm totally in love with it already!Our journey with Hyundai started almost since the inception of the OEM in India. If you all remember, the plethora of ads which Hyundai made along with SRK to familiarise the Indian audience with their brand and later launched a car, perfectly tailor made for India, the Santro. It was a beautiful piece of engineering IMHO. The 1.1L 4cylinder epsilon engine had extremely good NVH and short gearing made it perfect for pottering around city, plus the car had loads of space and even had quite chiller of an air con. No doubt it was a smashing hit and one which established Hyundai as a household name in India.My maternal uncle gifted my grandpa a beautiful red Hyundai Santro back during the springs of 2000(oh, so wonderful time to live life!). My grandparents meticulously took care of the car as it became embodiment of their son and got it regularly serviced at Hyundai ASC only.The car was kept by us for a long time but sadly, its paperworks were totally out of order and nobody was interested in retaining the car(except me but who cares) and the car was sold for as good as scrap but I tracked the owner and saw the car again recently and I wouldn't like to comment much about it but all I can say is the car is still in running condition.The story continues when I bought my first car, the 1st gen Hyundai i20 Asta. Another beautiful piece of engineering, it was clearly made for Euro markets, no doubt about that, the doors and overall construction was so high quality, it showed why it scored a perfect 5star EuroNCAP crash safety rating, plus it being a Hyundai, was generously equipped with gizmos and had stuff even unheard in luxury sedans during those times!The car served me faithfully for all these years and even helped me in saving my life many a times, when I was fatally injured and ambulance never arrived on the spot, it was my i20 which helped me out and if it were not for the car, I wouldn't have been alive today!As life progressed, decided to indulge and reward myself a SUV. Saw many, many cars but at the end, zeroed in upon, the Hyundai Tucson CRDi 4WD A/T in Phantom Black shade! The reason was simple, more than anything else, it was a car which punched way above its weight.Both the machines are so damn terrific!It has been one of the best purchases of mine, I've done so many long trips with it and each time I get behind the wheel, it makes me so happy and thank my lucky stars that I'm owning this masterpiece!Now coming to this time around, when I finally decided to upgrade my old i20, initially it was not Hyundai which was in my mind since I did want to try out other brands too.Cutting to the chase, after giving some thought, I booked the Dzire ZXI+ MT in Pearl Arctic White shade, I was initially given a waiting period of approximately 45days but was assured of delivery before that, also I've to say, the whole dealership and SA were always very cordial with me throughout, top marks to MSIL there!However, where MSIL betrayed us which left me totally shattered, was the fact when they suddenly decided to launch the new Dzire in commercial segment as TourS when even though they clearly said they wouldn't during the launch of the new Dzire. https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/comme...-launched.html (Maruti Suzuki Tour S based on new-gen Dzire launched) Yes, I do understand a big chunk of MSIL sales comes from commercial segment only and everybody does things for the best of their interest only but this led to increased demand and subsequent production constraints which led to rationing the production of ZXI+ models and prioritising the production of CNG models and this took a toll for customers who had booked the ZXI+ variant as MSIL increased waiting period extending to more than 16weeks for the higher-end variant!!I absolutely needed a car as Tucson was being overused for both highways and short commutes within the congested city, with which I wasn't at all comfortable with. Therefore, with a heavy heart, dropped the booking of the new Dzire but I'll still say, it's a fantastic machine and one which I wholly recommend even above the Amaze!Therefore, was again back to square one but I decided enough is enough, will now speed up the entire process and close the topic once and for all now. Honestly, I wasn't keen to overspend and also go for mainstream brands only with good after sales and service support.After some thought, it was clear, all the ways were leading me towards my trusted loyal brand only, Hyundai.I don't like the Aura at all and therefore chose the i20. The variant I finalised was the 1.2L NA petrol with simple 5MT because simply speaking, it perfectly suited my requirement since for anything else, I always have a 2000cc CRDi beast with 185BHP/400Nm at my disposal at all times already in my garage.The variant I selected is the Asta(O) top-end variant since I didn't wanna lose out on anything and I always prefer top end variant for whichever vehicle I buy. Even my 2012 Honda Aviator scooter is top VX model with front disc brakes! Plus it was only the high end variant which had rear wash wipe feature, a non-negotiable for me considering the amount of monsoon we receive here in MH.Regarding dealer, even though there are a zillion dealers in my city, I finalised on the oldest dealership of the city, the very same one from where my uncle picked up the Santro for my grandpa 25years ago! The people were rather professional, if not very friendly or cordial like MSIL but I don't have any complaints or grudges against any of them as they delivered all their promises and then some.They gave me a rather good deal, initially I wanted to opt for insurance by myself but later they gave me a cool discount on the insurance and therefore, agreed, plus their final offer included 4th year extended warranty and some basic accessories too.Upon asking for loyalty benefits, they clearly said, Hyundai doesn't have any loyalty bonus for i20 which is sad considering there are many loyal customers of like me who should be honoured in some form considering we're still choosing them despite having so many options.Still, upon my further insistence, the GM agreed to throw in 11,000Rs worth of free accessories, underbody coating etc to which I gave them a counter offer of giving me complimentary Shield of Trust running repair package which includes replacement of wear and tear parts viz brake pads, suspension arms, wipers etc for a period of 4years/45k kms to which they agreed. Plus, during final payment, they reduced the pricing by another 5k! That's why I didn't even bother to call any other dealer and closed the deal with them only.The car was booked and next morning itself I received a message, of the car being billed and loaded, VIN was also shared, as much as I was excited, I became a bit skeptical of the car being an old stock sitting idle at Hyundai's yard which was being given to me, also since the VIN was 17digit code only, it was not possible to know the month of manufacturing, the year of manufacturing though was 2025 itself.Therefore, kept faith in God and waited for the car, also I did want to carry out PDI by Zekardo but was prohibited by the dealership as according to them, its not permitted by Hyundai itself, I took things with a pinch of salt but decided to wait for the car, see it in person and then decide. They however did allow me to inspect the car by myself in as much depth as I wanted before final payment which was fair enough IMO.The car arrived couple of days later and was informed by the SA, that it was a fresh, March manufactured model, Phew! Upon visual inspection, the car was as fresh as it could be, all the plastics and trims intact, the tyres absolutely brand new, again March25 manufactured only. The interiors were having that delectable new car smell, the tapes etc were all intact as well and odo read just 25kms(distance from yard to showroom). I felt a nice vibe with the car and was totally convinced of it, cleared the entire payment then and there itself and asked SA to carry out the rest of formalities.In the meantime, had to leave the city due to my work schedule and therefore my initial preferred delivery date of 28th March(birthday of my respected elder brother) wasn't possible as I was able to return during evening of 29th only.However, the SA continued to process things from his side. Insurance was issued by my preferred company only and there were some minor corrections in the address which was promptly endorsed. The RTO work was also complete by 29th afternoon, however due to it being a weekend and subsequent Gudi Padwa and Eid, there was a hell lot of demand of HSRPs and therefore it would take a couple of days since I receive the plate.The night before the delivery day I didn't even get a wink of sleep even though the whole day was quite exhausting for me and was just stalking her photo in my phone and having a grin plastered on my faceVisited the showroom during noon hours, everything was arranged properly by the showroom and since it was a festival all the stuff was prepared accordingly.The HSRP hadn't arrived by then and SA promised for a home fitment whenever it would arrive which was fair enough for me, in the meantime they stuck paper plates as makeshift arrangement.The delivery experience was. Apart from the usual unveiling ceremony, the showroom arranged for a thorough puja ceremony too and car was already decorated with a garland, photo session was also done however unfortunately there was a power outage at that moment itself and dealership couldn't make the photo frame but the SA promised me to deliver it when he would come for HSRP installation.There she's like an adorable bride wearing her beautiful white wedding gown, waiting for me! Apart from all of this, the showroom was kind enough to give us some freebies, a box of chocolates and a really delicious chocolate cake too! From our side we gave a box of sweets to them as a token of appreciation.The delicious cake, arranged by them only to honour the birthday of my elder brother!Final checks done, owners' manual filled, we drove off and what a surreal experience it was, I just couldn't describe in words! Headed to the designated fuel bunk to redeem 5L fuel voucher, however since I wanted to fill her up with Shell didn't do any top up and headed straight to nearest Shell bunk and filled her up to the brim.The first song to be played will be none other than my favourite artist, KK, we miss you sir, please come back and give us some more evergreen songs, please!Her first proper meal, hope she likes it!Just look at her eyes and that smile, seems like she too has taken a liking towards me!Headed out to Lemon Tree and had some Chinese which I must say was delicious! Since it was a Sunday l decided to go to M.G Road and do some window shopping or so I thought!Now while roaming I don't know what got inside me but I decided to become totally foolish and behave immature and went inside Apple Store, which was bustling with customers owing to auspicious occasion, I was already quite frustrated with my current iPhone 13 which was just causing me so much trouble that I had to always rely on ZFold and over stressing it and therefore decided to bite the bullet.Initially, the Cashify agent quoted quite a low ball offer for my iPhone13 citing severely degraded battery health but the body was absolutely in pristine condition without any dents or cracks, therefore negotiated a bit with him and since I'm a loyal customer of that specific store, we finally settled on a fair enough resale.I initially decided to buy the 256GB variant of the 16Pro since my Fold is already having massive 512GB capacity, however the sales guy(a known buddy of mine) suggested me to upgrade to 512GB and upon deeper thoughts I too decided to upgrade the storage since it would future proof my iPhone as I really don't wanna spend on cellphones for long time now. Asked for further negotiations and was given a very good deal for the iPhone and to further sweeten the deal, the sales buddy also threw in a couple of freebies too.I couldn't be happier enough today!What a better way to test out the camera of my new iPhone than to click some photos of a beautiful model like my brand new i20. Just look at her eyes, she's gonna kill me with her sexy looks!Even her derriere is so damn curvy and sexy! Last edited by Aditya : 5th April 2025 at 05:10 . Reason: Comment deleted What just happened? Intel has unveiled a new chapter in its branding journey, reintroducing the iconic "Intel Inside" slogan with a twist that reflects its evolving role in the global tech landscape. At the Intel Vision 2025 event in Las Vegas, the company launched its refreshed brand identity under the tagline, "That's the power of Intel Inside," signaling a return to its roots while embracing the impact of its technologies on individuals, businesses, and communities. The revival of "Intel Inside" is more than a nostalgic nod to the past; it is an effort to underscore Intel's presence in today's interconnected world. Brett Hannath, Intel's chief marketing officer, explained that the new branding encapsulates the company's belief in unlocking potential across all levels whether it be employees, customers, or partners. Hannath emphasized how Intel's innovations bridge personal empowerment with global influence. The original "Intel Inside" campaign, launched in 1991, was revolutionary for its time. It marked a turning point in tech marketing by shifting focus from targeting system designers to directly engaging consumers. While companies like Apple and Microsoft communicated with end-users about their software and hardware offerings, suppliers like Intel traditionally operated behind the scenes. The "Intel Inside" campaign changed that dynamic by making the processor a component previously invisible to most consumers a central selling point for PCs. With memorable advertising, a ubiquitous sticker on devices, and a catchy five-note jingle, Intel transformed itself into a household name. This co-branding strategy elevated Intel's visibility and fostered trust among consumers. PC makers prominently displayed the "Intel Inside" logo on their products, reassuring buyers of quality and reliability. As the PC market boomed throughout the 1990s, this campaign helped Intel solidify its dominance over competitors like AMD and Cyrix. Although some argue that AMD has gained stronger brand recognition in recent years, Intel's legacy as a leader in PC processors remains firmly intact. Over time, "Intel Inside" evolved alongside technological advancements and shifting market priorities. In its early days, the campaign promoted Pentium and Celeron CPUs, which defined user experiences during the 1990s. By the early 2000s, Intel introduced its Centrino platform a combination of CPU, chipset, and wireless network adapter designed to enhance user experience through seamless integration. This move not only boosted Intel's financial performance but also marginalized smaller rivals. Later iterations of the campaign focused on performance tiers with products like Core i3, i5, and i7 processors, transitioning "Intel Inside" into more of a supporting role within Intel's broader branding ecosystem. Despite its continued presence on devices worldwide, "Intel Inside" gradually became overshadowed by other aspects of Intel's brand strategy that emphasized user experience over corporate identity. The launch of "That's the power of Intel Inside" seeks to restore focus on Intel's brand while tying it directly to modern ICT ubiquity. Update (April 8): Microsoft has fired the two employees involved in a protest during the company's recent 50th-anniversary celebration. The termination was attributed to misconduct, as stated in an internal email. Both individuals had previously sent mass emails to thousands of employees, urging the company to end its contracts with the Israeli government. One employee was let go by Microsoft Canada, while the second had already submitted his resignation prior to the demonstration. A Microsoft employee interrupted the company's 50th-anniversary celebration to protest its artificial intelligence initiatives, accusing the company of complicity in war crimes. The disruption occurred during an address by Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman when software engineer Ibtihal Aboussad stood up and directly confronted him. "Shame on you," Aboussad declared. "You are a war profiteer. Stop using AI for genocide in our region, Mustafa. You have blood on your hands." Suleyman maintained his composure, repeatedly saying, "Thank you. I hear your protest. Thank you." Aboussad continued her rant even as security escorted her from the venue. However, being ejected from the event did not end her rally. Sources within Microsoft told The Verge that she later sent a company-wide email to hundreds, possibly thousands, of employees, explaining her actions and condemning the company's involvement in Israel's military operations. In her email, Aboussad, a Microsoft engineer for over three years, said she could not stay silent after learning her work contributed to what she called the "genocide" of Palestinians. She accused Microsoft of suppressing internal dissent and fostering a hostile environment for Arab, Palestinian, and Muslim employees. "For the past year and a half, our Arab, Palestinian, and Muslim community at Microsoft has been silenced, intimidated, harassed, and doxxed, with impunity," she wrote. "Speaking up at best fell on deaf ears, and at worst, led to the firing of two employees for simply holding a vigil." Aboussad cited reporting by the Associated Press regarding a $133 million contract with Israel's Ministry of Defense, which she said enables mass data collection and intelligence gathering. According to the report, Israeli military use of Microsoft AI services spiked in early 2024, with stored data doubling within months. She claims that Israel uses this data for mass surveillance, transcription of intercepted messages, and aiding in military strikes. Aboussad contends that Microsoft's AI technology makes attacks more lethal and destructive. Aboussad urged coworkers to sign the "No Azure for Apartheid" petition demanding leadership sever ties with the Israeli military. She referenced Microsoft's past decision to drop contracts with AnyVision, an Israeli facial recognition company, after employee and community protests. Her demonstration comes amid broader unrest within the tech sector. Microsoft, Google, and Amazon have all faced employee backlash over military and government contracts, especially surrounding Project Nimbus, which provides cloud services to the Israeli government. Microsoft has not commented publicly on the protest. It has previously stated it adheres to ethical guidelines in its AI work. Whether this incident will lead to internal policy changes remains uncertain. Image credit: Steve Jurvetson BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. We call on the international community to support Azerbaijans demining efforts, the statement of the Azerbaijani MFA on X said, Trend reports. ''On 4 April International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action we highlight once again the serious threat posed by landmines in Azerbaijans liberated territories. As a result of Armenias decades-long occupation and indiscriminate use of landmines, 388 Azerbaijani citizens have been killed or injured since 2020. Landmines contaminating the liberated territories continue to endanger civilian lives, obstruct the return of former internally displaced persons, and hinder reconstruction and development. We call on the international community to support Azerbaijans demining efforts and to hold Armenia accountable for its violations of international humanitarian law'' the publication reads. Azerbaijan remains committed and steadfast to ensure a mine-free, safe, and prosperous future for its people. Experts warn 'AI-written' paper is latest spin on climate change denial Washington, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 Climate change deniers are pushing an AI-generated paper questioning human-induced warming, leading experts to warn against the rise of research that is inherently flawed but marketed as neutral and scrupulously logical. The paper rejects climate models on human-induced global warming and has been widely cited on social media as being the first "peer-reviewed" research led by artificial intelligence (AI) on the topic. Titled "A Critical Reassessment of the Anthropogenic CO2-Global Warming Hypothesis," it contains references contested by the scientific community, according to experts interviewed by AFP. Computational and ethics researchers also cautioned against claims of neutrality in papers that use AI as an author. The new study -- which claims to be entirely written by Elon Musk's Grok 3 AI -- has gained traction online, with a blog post by Covid-19 contrarian Robert Malone promoting it gathering more than a million views. "After the debacle of man-made climate change and the corruption of evidence-based medicine by big pharma, the use of AI for government-funded research will become normalized, and standards will be developed for its use in peer-reviewed journals," Malone wrote. There is overwhelming scientific consensus linking fossil fuel combustion to rising global temperatures and increasingly severe weather disasters. - Illusion of objectivity - Academics have warned that the surge of AI in research, despite potential benefits, risks triggering an illusion of objectivity and insight in scientific research. "Large language models do not have the capacity to reason. They are statistical models predicting future words or phrases based on what they have been trained on. This is not research," argued Mark Neff, an environmental sciences professor. The paper says Grok 3 "wrote the entire manuscript," with input from co-authors who "played a crucial role in guiding its development." Among the co-authors was astrophysicist Willie Soon -- a climate contrarian known to have received more than a million dollars in funding from the fossil fuel industry over the years. Scientifically contested papers by physicist Hermann Harde and Soon himself were used as references for the AI's analysis. Microbiologist Elisabeth Bik, who tracks scientific malpractice, remarked the paper did not describe how it was written: "It includes datasets that formed the basis of the paper, but no prompts," she noted. "We know nothing about how the authors asked the AI to analyze the data." Ashwinee Panda, a postdoctoral fellow on AI safety at the University of Maryland, said the claim that Grok 3 wrote the paper created a veneer of objectivity that was unverifiable. "Anyone could just claim 'I didn't write this, the AI did, so this is unbiased' without evidence," he said. - Opaque review process - Neither the journal nor its publisher -- which seems to publish only one journal -- appear to be members of the Committee of Publication Ethics. The paper acknowledges "the careful edits provided by a reviewer and the editor-in-chief," identified on its website as Harde. It does not specify whether it underwent open, single-, or double-blind review and was submitted and published within just 12 days. "That an AI would effectively plagiarize nonsense papers," does not come as a surprise to NASA's top climate scientist Gavin Schmidt, but "this retread has just as little credibility," he told AFP. AFP reached out to the authors of the paper for further comment on the review process, but did not receive an immediate response. "The use of AI is just the latest ploy, to make this seem as if it is a new argument, rather than an old, false one," Naomi Oreskes, a science historian at Harvard University, told AFP. mja/rl/aha Protest as quake-hit Myanmar junta chief joins Bangkok summit Bangkok, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 Protesters displayed a banner calling Myanmar's junta chief a "murderer" as he joined a regional summit in Bangkok on Friday, a week after a huge earthquake killed thousands and left desperate survivors pleading for food and shelter. More than 3,000 people are confirmed dead after the 7.7-magnitude quake and the United Nations estimates that up to three million may have been affected in some way -- many left without shelter after their homes were destroyed. Many nations have sent aid and rescue teams but there is little sign of Myanmar's ruling military helping survivors on the ground in some of the worst-hit areas. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing held talks with leaders from Bay of Bengal littoral nations at a plush Bangkok hotel on Friday. The decision to invite him drew criticism, and protesters outside the venue hung a banner from a bridge reading: "We do not welcome murderer Min Aung Hlaing." The latest death toll in Myanmar stands at 3,145, with 4,589 injured and 221 missing, according to state media. In Bangkok, 22 people were killed, most of them crushed when a tower block under construction collapsed. In Sagaing, the central Myanmar city close to the epicentre of last week's quake and where an estimated 80 percent of buildings have been damaged, AFP journalists witnessed desperate scenes in recent days as hundreds of exhausted, hungry survivors scrambled for supplies. Teams of citizen volunteers from around Myanmar piled into Sagaing in trucks laden with water, oil, rice and other basic necessities. With so many homes in Sagaing and neighbouring Mandalay left uninhabitable by the quake, survivors have been sleeping in the streets for a week, and are badly in need of proper shelter. A patch of land in Mandalay -- a dustbowl covered in trash -- has sprouted a tent city of people from ruined homes or others too scared to return because of aftershocks. "There are many people who are in need," cab driver Hla Myint Po, 30, now living in tents with his family, told AFP. "Sometimes when donors bring things it's chaos." While the crisis rages in Myanmar, Min Aung Hlaing sat down Thursday night for a gala dinner with fellow leaders from the BIMSTEC group at the $400-a-night Shangri-La hotel in Bangkok. The veteran general ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government in a 2021 coup, triggering a bloody civil war, and has been accused of war crimes and serious human rights abuses. Min Aung Hlaing is under multiple global sanctions and the International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor has sought an arrest warrant for him for alleged crimes against humanity committed against Rohingya Muslims. The junta has carried out dozens of attacks on its own people since the quake, the UN said, including more than 16 air strikes since the military joined rebel groups in declaring a temporary ceasefire to allow aid to get through. However, the junta chief was given red carpet treatment by the Thai government as he arrived for the meeting with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and other leaders from Bay of Bengal nations. The BIMSTEC leaders issued a statement after their talks offering condolences to quake victims and survivors. - 'Deplorable' - Myanmar's shadow opposition National Unity Government (NUG) condemned Min Aung Hlaing's presence at the summit, calling it an affront to justice "given the immense suffering he has inflicted on the people of Myanmar". "Allowing the junta leader and his representatives to participate in regional and international forums risks legitimising an illegal regime," the NUG said in a statement. Yadanar Maung of the Justice for Myanmar campaign group said it was "deplorable" that Thailand and BIMSTEC welcomed him. Shunned and sanctioned by many Western countries since the coup, the junta has turned to close allies China and Russia for support as it struggles to get the upper hand in a complex, multi-sided civil war. BIMSTEC is Min Aung Hlaing's first foreign trip outside of China, Russia or Belarus since he attended another regional summit in Indonesia in 2021 soon after the coup. The Bangkok meeting afforded the isolated leader a rare chance for face-to-face diplomacy and he took advantage by holding meetings with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Paetongtarn. India's foreign ministry said the so-called Quad Partners -- which also include Australia, Japan and the United States -- welcomed "recent commitments to temporary, partial ceasefires". Nations divided ahead of decisive week for shipping emissions London, April 4 (AFP) Apr 04, 2025 Members of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) are divided over whether to approve a carbon tax on international shipping, ahead of a meeting starting on Monday to finalise emissions-reduction measures. The carbon tax, the most ambitious measure on the table, would make it more expensive for shipping companies to emit greenhouse gases, encouraging them to curtail emissions. But some member states, including China and Brazil, are proposing other measures, arguing the carbon levy would increase the cost of goods and contribute to food insecurity. The IMO expects to come to an initial agreement by Friday next week on which mechanism to adopt to help reach carbon neutrality in shipping by 2050. The stakes are high as shipping accounts for nearly three percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the IMO. "(It is) difficult to say what will happen next week," Fanny Pointet, sustainable shipping manager at European advocacy group, Transport and Environment, told AFP. The United States has been notably quiet about the issue, having not commented since President Donald Trump returned to the White House. The Pacific and Caribbean island states are leading the group pushing for a carbon tax, with support from other countries including the UK. They argue that funds raised from a levy could be redistributed to nations most vulnerable to climate change to help adapt and mitigate its effects. "Climate change is a terrifying lived reality for my country," said Albon Ishoda, the Marshall Islands' representative to the IMO. - 'Terrifying lived reality' - However, around 15 countries strongly oppose the carbon levy, arguing it would exacerbate inequalities between nations and raise the costs of goods such as palm oil, cereals and corn. Concerns are also mounting that the European Union, once a supporter of a carbon tax, could water down the measure in favour of a carbon credit system. Such a system would allow companies or countries to buy and sell credits representing the right to emit a certain amount of carbon dioxide. According to University College London research, the option of no levy presents the biggest risk to meeting the shipping sector's climate goals. It could also distort fuel prices and create an uneven playing field, favouring states with strong industrial polices, such as China, researchers said. "The fastest and cheapest energy transition is brought about by a strong levy," combined with a global fuel standard to reduce the carbon intensity of fuels used by ships, they added. Challenges also remain with the fuel standard system, particularly the risk of using alternative fuels such as palm oil and soybean oil, which indirectly contribute to emissions through deforestation, Pointet explained. While Brazil defends the key role of these biofuels, more than 60 environmental protection NGOs have raised objections to their inclusion in the future shipping fuel mix. Other potential solutions include synthetic hydrogen-based fuels, currently very expensive to produce, or the installation of wind-powered propulsion systems onboard ship. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. U.S. President Donald Trump looks forward to signing and ratification of the peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Senior Advisor of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Energy Resources (ENR) Erik Jacobs said addressing the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku, Trend reports. I congratulate you on finalizing the text of the peace treaty with Armenia. President Trump looks forward to signing and ratification, as stability and a formal peace will secure the regions economic development, he said. Jacobs pointed out that a lasting peace would break the cycle of regional conflict and bring security and prosperity to the South Caucasus. So we commend you for taking this bold step for peace and prosperity, he added. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Shoppers beware: those unbelievably cheap goods flooding in from shopping apps such as Temu and Shein may soon see a price hike. President Donald Trump's recent executive order signals the end of an era for bargain-hunting Americans accustomed to a deluge of low-cost items arriving on their doorsteps. The "de minimis provision" - a little-known but widely utilized loophole - has allowed up to 4 million low-value packages, primarily from China, to enter the U.S. daily without being subject to import taxes. This provision, applying to goods valued at $800 or less, has fuelled the rapid growth of Chinese e-commerce giants like Shein and Temu, simultaneously undercutting the American retail market. However, this tax-free ride is coming to an end. open image in gallery Trumps measures could see the end of cheap fashion and homeware imports ( Francis Chung/UPI/Shutterstock ) The executive order, signed Wednesday, will eliminate this exemption for goods originating from China and Hong Kong starting May 2. This change could significantly impact the affordability of goods from these regions, potentially driving up prices and altering the competitive landscape for both online and brick-and-mortar retailers. Shoppers had a full array of product and options of timing, Marshal Cohen, chief retail advisor at market research firm Circana, said. Now, theyre going to have a limited array of options and timing: so you can still buy this product, but you may have to wait three or four weeks. U.S. politicians, law enforcement agencies and business groups have described the long-standing policy as a trade loophole that gave inexpensive Chinese goods an advantage and served as a portal for illicit drugs and counterfeits to enter the country. The sweeping tariffs Trump announced on Wednesday also aim to end the duty-free exception for all imported goods worth less than $800, but only when the U.S. government has the personnel in place to process parcels from every country. open image in gallery Brands like Shein and Temu will be impacted ( Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) What will be the effect on prices and shipping times? A White House fact sheet said small packages of Chinese products sent through the international postal network will be subject to a duty rate of either 30% of their value or $25 per item, an amount that will increase to $50 per item after June 1. Commercial carriers such as FedEx and UPS will be required to report shipment details and remit the appropriate duties to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, according to the White House. After Trump's latest round of tariffs, the tariff rate for Chinese products will be at least 54%. Supporters of the de minimis exception have argued that its elimination would drive up costs and hurt low-income consumers and small businesses. The tariff costs threaten to deal a blow to the U.S. operations of companies like Shein and Temu, which rapidly expanded in the U.S. using the de minimis provision to deliver ultra-cheap fast fashion items from China. However, it's unclear what impact the loss of the tax exemption will have on the two online retailers, as well as on American companies like Amazon and Walmart, whose platforms include virtual marketplaces where international sellers offer products. Shein and Temu already have been building warehouses in the U.S. so they could get orders to U.S. shoppers more quickly. Shein recently opened a fulfillment and logistics hub in the Seattle area. Neither company could be reached for comment Thursday. Ram Ben Tzion, chief executive officer of the digital vetting platform Publican, said he expected the companies to be forced to rethink their business strategy and possibly explore opting out of the U.S. market. In an emailed statement to AP, FedEx said it would support its customers to adapt to the new regulatory requirements and said it would be important for shippers to have paperwork completed correctly ahead of pick-up for shipments to move smoothly. Hilton Beckham, an assistant commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, said the federal agency was ready to implement the latest tariffs. Our automated systems are fully updated to capture, assess, and administer all new duties, and clear guidance will be provided to support uniform enforcement across the nation, Beckham said. Ben Tzion, of Publican, said he would highly doubt the U.S. government was ready to process the huge number of low-value shipments to be taxed starting next month. The Hong Kong government said the HongKong Post would temporarily maintain postal services to the U.S through May 2 but will not collect any so-called tariffs on behalf of the U.S. authorities. What is the de minimis provision? Introduced in 1938, the de minimis exception was intended to facilitate the flow of small packages valued at no more than $5, the equivalent of about $109 today. The threshold increased to $200 in 1994 and $800 in 2016. But the rapid rise of cross-border e-commerce, driven by China, has challenged the intent of the decades-old customs exception rule. Chinese exports of low-value packages soared to $66 billion in 2023, up from $5.3 billion in 2018, according to a February report by the Congressional Research Service. And the U.S. market has been a major destination. The Chinese government, which sees cross-border e-commerce as a critical part of its foreign trade, has introduced favorable policies, including financial support and infrastructure building, to foster its growth. Former President Joe Biden proposed a rule last year that said foreign companies cant avoid tariffs simply by shipping goods that they claim to be worth $800 or less. Trump tried in February to end the exception but his initial order was called off within days when it appeared the U.S. was not prepared to process and collect tariffs on the millions of parcels. U.S. Rep. Rosa L. DeLauro, a Democrat from Connecticut, said she was pleased Trump acted a second time to eliminate the rule. For too long, this customs loophole has let foreign exporters flood our market with cheap goods and helped drug traffickers move fentanyl past our borders resulting in factory closures, job losses, and deaths, DeLauro said. An explosion of cheap goods In 2023, for the first time, more than 1 billion such packages came through U.S. customs, up from 134 million in 2015. By the end of last year, Customs and Border Protection said it was processing about 4 million small shipments a day. The cheap prices and increasing popularity of Shein and Temu squeezed fast-fashion retailers like Forever 21 and H&M. Forever 21 blamed the tax exemption in part for its decision to file for bankruptcy last month and close its U.S. stores, We have been unable to find a sustainable path forward, given competition from foreign fast-fashion companies, which have been able to take advantage of the de minimis exemption to undercut our brand on pricing and margin, Chief Financial Officer Brad Sell said in a statement. Meanwhile, Amazon launched late last year a low- cost online storefront featuring electronics, apparel and other products priced under $20, in an apparent effort to compete with Temu and Shein. Amazon shipped the products to U.S. customers from a warehouse it operates in China, according to documentation the company provided to sellers. Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A decorated RAF helicopter pilot has been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer that could have been caused by fumes from his aircraft. Despite this, Philip Pip Harding has praised the "potentially life-saving" support he has received from the force. The 53-year-old veteran of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Northern Ireland, received the shock diagnosis of stage four brain cancer in March 2024. Initially given only months to live, the Wallingford-based father-of-five underwent a novel treatment that appears to have significantly shrunk his tumour by heating up and destroying the cancerous cells. The treatment involves 36 sessions which cost 1,000 each and has largely been funded by Pips family and RAF colleagues, who were able to raise the whole 36,000 in just two weeks. open image in gallery Pip (centre), with his wife next to him, and his five children (from left) Johnny, Ellie, William, Bobbie, and Harry ( Family handout/PA Real Life ) Earlier this year, an investigation was launched by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) into members of the military receiving cancer diagnoses after claims some helicopters had exposed crews to toxic fumes. Some former personnel are also taking legal action. Pip acknowledged there is a chance this may have been the cause of his diagnosis and he might take action on the issue in the future, but the RAF has been genuinely amazing and potentially saved (his) life with its support. Although Im not taking action right now, it is something that down the line might come up, he said. I dont know that its come from helicopters. I just know that there might be a chance it has. Im not standing here throwing out threats the Air Force have been genuinely amazing in how they treated me. Theyve been so supportive and, with that support, potentially saved my life. (The treatment is) extraordinary its not a definite cure, but it seems to be working on me at the moment, which is just tremendous, and Im so grateful for the support Ive been having. open image in gallery MRI scans showing Pip's tumour, before (left) and after (right) treatment through oncothermia and chemotherapy ( Family handout/PA Real Life ) Having been born into the Air Force to RAF parents, Pip earned his pilots licence at age 17, before he even learned to drive. After university, where he met his wife Claire, he joined the RAF and was sent to train as a support helicopter pilot rising through the ranks to group captain and becoming an OBE after tours in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan. Pip piloted one of two helicopters transporting casualties after an IRA splinter group detonated a car bomb in Omagh on August 15, 1998, killing 29 and injuring 220. But in November 2023, whilst working with US forces in Hawaii, Pip had a bit of an incident where he became unconscious and unable to talk after receiving a Covid vaccination. We thought it must have been a minor reaction to the jab, he said. But after further slightly unusual reactions, Pips wife Claire persuaded him to see a doctor. open image in gallery Pip (right) with his wife, Claire, and Air Vice-Marshal Paul Rose (left) ( Family handout/PA Real Life ) In March 2024, an American major sat him down and broke the news. I had this tumour growing on the side of my brain, which probably meant depending on treatment that I had anywhere between six and 12 months to live, Pip said. My initial reaction was very quiet. As time passed, I became more emotional you suddenly realise, Ive got this incredible marriage, this amazing woman, plus five gorgeous children, and Im on my way out. Pip was told his only option was a full-scale operation where they pull down the side of your face and pull away a bit of your skull to attack the tumour. Over Easter last year, he had a lovely three-week holiday with his wife and his five children Ellie, 25, Johnny, 23, Bobbie, 20, Harry, 18, and William, 15 where they talked about it and came to terms with it. Things stabilised for a little bit, but the MRI scans I was having still showed the tumour was fairly large, he said. open image in gallery Pip and his wife Claire ( Family handout/PA Real Life ) He decided to return to the UK in September 2024. Not long after, a small group of friends organised a dinner for him. It was remarkable. Word spread, and literally 400 people turned up to a hangar party dinner, he said. There was a huge light bulb PIP on top of the bar. There was an RAF band playing. There was a huge RAF flag, which everyone signed. I wasnt in particularly good nick at the time, but I was able to stand up and say a few words at the end. A month later, Pips doctor informed him of a new treatment called oncothermia. Malignant brain tumour (brain cancer) symptoms NHS Common symptoms include: headaches (often worse in the morning and when coughing or straining) fits (seizures) regularly feeling sick (vomiting) memory problems or changes in personality weakness, vision problems or speech problems that get worse According to the cancer charity Yes to Life, oncothermia involves targeting cancer cells by passing both focused and controlled heat, and an electric field, through cancer tissue. Pip said: Its basically heating the brain tumour in your head, but its done very cleverly. I lie down on the bed, and this thing is cushioned up very close to the left-hand side of my head, where the brain tumour is, and fires in this heat. It goes through the outer skin to the tumour and raises the temperature to about 45 degrees Celsius, and basically just destroys the tumour. open image in gallery Pip with General Sir Michael Johnson ( Family handout/PA Real Life ) Pip was scheduled for 36 hour-long treatments alongside chemotherapy. After just six sessions, an MRI scan revealed that the tumour had reduced in size from seven to 1.7 centimetres in diameter. Unfortunately, the cutting-edge treatment is not covered by the NHS and costs 1,000 per session. Pip agreed to cover the amount himself, but his family, friends and RAF colleagues refused to hear it. Within two weeks, they raised 36,000, he said. Pip said he is now half-way through his treatment plan, and praised the incredible support he has received through a GoFundMe set up by friends. Im fighting on, and Im really happy to still be serving, said Pip, who remains an RAF Group Captain. Ive got stories to tell, and hopefully cadets to talk to, and Ill continue until Im genuinely not required anymore. Pips fundraising page can be found on GoFundMe. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Hailey Okulas husband, Matthew Okula, has opened up about the final moment his wife had with their newborn son before her death. On Tuesday, Matthew posted a video on the nursing influencers Instagram and TikTok to announce her death, only two days after she gave birth. After welcoming her son, Crew, via a cesarean section, Hailey suffered an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE), a rare complication during childbirth, and went into cardiac arrest. Now, Matthew has spoken out about Crew's first and last moment with Hailey. She was able to see him for a split second, and Im always going to remember that, he recalled during an interview with Fox 11 Los Angeles, published on Wednesday. We both looked at him and [it was] just Haileys personality. She said a little something because she saw how big he was. We had a quick little laugh there, she had a little tear on her face, he added. From there, Crew walked out of the room with his newborn, after the doctors told him they were finishing up and that Hailey would be there in a moment. However, only a minute later, he learned that something was wrong. open image in gallery Hailey and Matthew Okula welcomed their son on March 29 ( RNnewgrads / TikTok ) The doctor comes in and lets me know that they're doing CPR on her. I'm making the decision, Am I going to the ICU to be with my wife or am I staying with my newborn little baby? he said with tears in his eyes. Not the decision I thought I would be making. During the interview, he also addressed how unexpected his wifes death was. The doctors say it was from a very, very rare complication known as amniotic fluid embolism, he said about Hailey, who got pregnant through IVF. Theres no treatment, theres no way of diagnosing it. Its so sad to think of other people having to go through what Im going through right now. According to the Cleveland Clinic, an amniotic fluid embolism is a dangerous and life-threatening complication that occurs during delivery or shortly after giving birth. The condition is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can be similar to other serious complications during childbirth. In his Instagram post on Tuesday, Matthew acknowledged how badly he and his wife wanted to be parents following years of infertility struggles and a long, challenging IVF process, which Hailey spoke openly about on her social media. He applauded Hailey for her courage and grace throughout every hurdle she faced. I will never forget the moment I broke down, apologizing for the toll the [IVF] process would take on her. She held my face, looked into my eyes, and said, We are a team, and well get through this together. That was Hailey, he wrote in the caption, which included videos of him and his wife. A woman who would do anything for the people she loved. Matthew, who was married to Hailey for 13 years, also celebrated her career accomplishments as an ER nurse. In 2019, she created RN New Grads, which aims to help newly graduated nurses launch their careers. open image in gallery Hailey and Matthew were married for 13 years ( RNnewgrads / TikTok ) She was so proud of it and was dedicated to creating something meaningful, not just for herself, but for the nursing community she loved so much, Matthew added. She dreamed of helping new nurses thrive while also being present for our sweet Crew, building a life and legacy she was so proud of. A GoFundMe has been set up for Matthew to help him navigate life as a single father while grieving the love of his life. Donations will go towards funeral and memorial expenses for Hailey, household bills and utilities, future baby supplies and childcare for Crew, and Matthews time off from work so he can be with his son. At the time of writing, the fundraiser had raised $291,717 out of its $300,000 goal. This isnt about charityits about duty, about standing by one of our own when he needs us the most. As firefighters, we never leave a brother behind. As a community, we step up when our family is hurting, the GoFundMe reads. After starting RN New Grads, Hailey became a beloved face in the online nursing community. She had more than 420,000 followers on Instagram, where she posted videos about being an ER nurse and shared her candid advice about entering this field. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. April 4 marks 33 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani MFA. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov exchanged congratulatory letters on this occasion. We present the text of the letter addressed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Dear Sergey Lavrov, Accept warm congratulations on the 33rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation. Over the past decades, bilateral relations between our countries, based on common historical values, mutual respect and trust, as well as taking into account each other's interests, have been successfully developing and have grown from strategic partnership to allied interaction. Undoubtedly, regular political dialogue at the highest level, being an important factor in the progressive development of cooperation, has always set the tone for comprehensive Azerbaijani-Russian interaction. The signing of the Declaration of Allied Cooperation on February 22, 2022, marked the transition of interstate relations to a qualitatively new level and created a solid basis for long-term cooperation in various fields. To date, allied interaction, characterized by intensive bilateral contacts, continues to be fruitfully strengthened. A clear example is the steady growth of trade turnover, the expansion of the legal framework, as well as the successful implementation of joint projects and initiatives. The expansion of cultural and humanitarian ties and interregional cooperation occupies a special place in the bilateral agenda. Undoubtedly, close cooperation in the line of foreign policy departments contributes to the strengthening of allied interaction on a wide range of issues of mutual interest. I am convinced that Azerbaijani-Russian relations will continue to be comprehensively deepened and filled with new content in the interests of our states and peoples. Kindly accept, Minister, the assurances of my highest consideration. The text of the letter from the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation can be found at the following link. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Who among us isnt guilty of being a bit too nosy when it comes to our neighbours? Its natural when we live in close proximity to the petty dramas of each others lives. Whether its a door slamming shut after an argument or curiosity about how they funded their new extension, its human nature to want to know a little bit more, to piece together the puzzle that makes up these polite and civil side characters in our lives. Now, new research has confirmed what we all knew: the UK is a nation of curtain-twitchers. But its not just nosiness but contempt for our neighbours thats driving our curiosity. One in twelve (8 per cent) Brits openly admit to spying on their neighbours because they dont like them, according to research by curtains specialists Hillarys and Censuswide. That means 4.5 million people in the UK despise their neighbours so much theyre driven to snoop. Men are worse than women when it comes to curtain twitching over feuds, with 8 per cent admitting to spying with a neighbour theyre in a dispute with, compared to just 5 per cent of women. Grudges are most likely to brew in the North East of England with 15 per cent of the 2,000 adults surveyed admitting that theyre feuding with a neighbour. But tension is just as high in Manchester, with one in six (15 per cent) admitting to spying, with Sheffield and Newcastle close behind with 13 per cent respectively. The age range most likely to be petty and hold a grudge against their neighbours are 25 to 35 year olds. The UK is full of curtain-twitchers who spy because they dont like their neighbours ( BBC ) But in their defence, curtain-twitchers may have valid reasons for their activity. For example, 10 per cent of Brits admit they spy because they dont trust their neighbours, nine per cent do so for gossip, while an interesting 6 per cent spy to keep a tab on their neighbours shopping habits. However, more serious reasons include the one in 20 Brits who admit to spying out of fear that their partner is having an affair, and the same amount do so because of missing parcels that they suspect their nehbours are stealing. One in twenty are slightly creepy romantics, who admit to spying because they have a secret crush. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Florida man has been arrested in the fatal shooting of his girlfriend as she slept in bed with their three children and staging it to look like a home invasion. Saun Rainge, 32, and Benjamin Garmon have been charged with first-degree murder for the death of 30-year-old Porshe Nikita Shanee Streeter, Rainges girlfriend. On January 13, 2024, Streeter was shot multiple times as she slept in bed with the couples three children, ages 10, 2 and 1, in her apartment. None of the children was physically harmed. Investigators claim that Rainge enlisted Garmon to shoot and kill Streeter and make it appear like a home invasion. The couple had known each other since high school. Their children are 10, two and one, according to WESH 2. Officials described their relationship as toxic and claimed there were instances of infidelity and domestic abuse. The Orange County Sheriffs Office said the woman was living in the apartment with the children, and Rainge would sleep over occasionally. Rainge alerted officials of the womans death. He allegedly called 911 after the shooting and claimed a person had walked into the apartment and shot him and his lady. First responders removed all three children from the home. Rainge had a gunshot wound to his arm. The door to the master bedroom appeared as if someone had kicked it in. Police found Streeter in the master bedroom on the floor and unresponsive. She had multiple gunshot wounds after being shot 10 times. Rainge told police he thought his girlfriend was ok, officials said, adding that an intruder shot Streeter. Officials did not believe the mans version of events. A friend of the woman later contacted police, claiming Rainge had beaten Streeter a few days before she was killed. Another person confirmed the incident, the outlet reported. Following a year-long investigation, investigators determined that Rainge had planned to kill Streeter and charged him with the crime. Garmon Jr. is accused of conspiring to commit murder. He ran from the apartment as the gunshots were fired, police said. Officials claim Garmon shot Rainge to make the scene appear like a home invasion. Rainge wanted his girlfriend dead because she wouldnt give him custody of their children and was hiding money from him, police said. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An Oklahoma man is in custody after police say he fatally shot a priest outside of a Catholic church in Kansas. Police responded to a call at the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca, Kansas, Thursday to find Father Arul Carasala outside with gunshot wounds, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Paramedics transported him to a hospital, where he later died. Now, 66-year-old Gary Hermesch of Tulsa, Oklahoma, is being held at the Nemaha County Jail and has been charged with first-degree murder, the Nemaha County Attorneys Office told The Independent. Hermeschs bond has been set at $1 million. open image in gallery Gary Hermesch has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Father Arul Carasala outside of the priests Kansas church ( Nemaha County Jail ) Kris Anderson, the parishs religious education director, told the Associated Press the community knows few details. Police have not detailed a possible motive in the case. From what we know, an older man walked up to [Carasala] and shot him three times, she said. Carasala became the churchs pastor in 2011, two months after obtaining U.S. citizenship. He was first ordained in 1994 for the Diocese of Cuddapah in southeast India. The Indian government granted him Overseas Citizen of India status, meaning he could travel there without a visa. As an [Overseas Citizen of India], he doesnt need a visa to go to India and his American citizenship makes travel here and elsewhere easier, his biography on the churchs website reads. Father Arul states that his primary citizenship is United States. Father Arul feels the priesthood, indeed, the church, is universal and the church is home wherever he is. open image in gallery Carasala died on Thursday from gunshot wounds, police said ( Archdiocese of Kansas City ) Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, who leads the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas, said this senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend. There is no ongoing threat to the community, but I recognize the pain and shock that such an event brings, Naumann wrote on Facebook. Community members are now mourning Carasala. Heartbreaking, one Facebook user wrote. When we found out both of our sons had a terminal illness, he stopped by weekly to ask about them. He did not care that we are not Catholic but knew we were grieving and ministered to us, he attended our son Dawson's funeral, and continued to ask how our other son was doing whenever our paths crossed. I am in shock and so saddened by this tragedy, another wrote. He presided over my mothers funeral 1 week ago. He was a faithful servant and he will be missed. May he rest in peace! The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice In fall 2023, Kristil Krug got a text from someone saying he was an ex-boyfriend. He asked if Krug would like to hook up while he was in town. She didnt reply. Other texts followed, some angry, including one that referred to her loser husband. Still more messages indicated that Krug was being watched. Weeks later, the Colorado woman was found dead in her home in suburban Denver. She had been stabbed and beaten. Prosecutors say the messages werent from an ex-boyfriend at all they were from her husband. Daniel Krug, 44, is charged with first-degree murder, stalking and criminal impersonation in his wife's death in Broomfield. Opening statements could come as soon as Friday in his trial. open image in gallery The Krug home, where Kristils body was found ( AP ) His lawyers, Joseph Morales and Phillip Andrew Geigle, did not respond to a call seeking comment. Krug was arrested on December 16, 2023, two days after his wife was found on the floor of their garage by a police officer. While at his job with the state health department, he had asked police to do a welfare check, saying she failed to respond to his messages. Three of the home's surveillance cameras, which Kristil Krug's mother said she installed because of the recent stalking, were not recording when she was found, according to the arrest affidavit. The one in the garage was covered with tape. Video from cameras at neighboring homes did not show any unknown person entering the home in the hours leading up to her being found, the document said. Kristil Krug had contacted police about the messages, which she thought came from the former boyfriend. After she was killed, police traced the IP address for the texts to Daniel Krug's workplace, according to the affidavit. At the time of the killing, the ex-boyfriend was an eight-hour drive away in Utah, where he was living, the affidavit said. He is not a suspect. Krug's mother told police that her daughter's relationship with her husband was not good, and that she wanted to get divorced and seek full custody of their three children. Krug, had a degree in biochemical engineering and a fulfilling career in technology and innovation, as well as a passion for the performing arts and modern dance, according to her obituary. She accomplished so much in her short life, and had so much left to contribute before being so savagely removed, it read. The world will miss what she had yet to give us. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Missing pregnant teenager Sophia Franklin, who disappeared from her Wisconsin home in early February, was found on her 17th birthday with a 40-year-old man police say is the father of her unborn child. Franklin was discovered Wednesday in Nebraska, nearly two months after her disappearance from her home in Beaver Dam. Wisconsin Police announced the discovery Thursday. The man, Gary Day, has been arrested, and he faces a number of charges, including abduction, online court records reveal. Franklin was reported missing on February 3, a day after she was last seen at her home, police reported at the time. An Amber Alert noted that Day was the suspect in her disappearance. According to the authorities, Day met Franklin online in April of last year. Some months after they began talking, Day made the trip to Wisconsin and took Franklin to Arkansas, where she was held from July to December, when she was found by local police, reported FOX 6 Now and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Sophia Franklin, 17, was found with Gary Day, 40, at a truck stop ( Wisconsin Department of Justice ) Day reportedly continued to reach out to Franklin online after she was returned to her parents home. The teenagers mother, Leah Franklin, previously told the Journal Sentinel: The whole situation scares me. Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would happen. WMTV 15 reported that Day and Franklin were spotted at a truck stop Wednesday night by a couple who became suspicious after speaking to the teenager. Police have said that Franklin is safe and healthy. Day faces two counts of abduction of a child and two counts of child enticement causing mental/bodily harm, according to online court records. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An Ohio high school teacher offered a student $2,000 in a murder-for-hire plot against her husband, authorities said. Stephanie Demetrius, 44, from Columbus, Ohio, has been charged with first-degree conspiracy after she asked a boy at the Academy for Urban Scholars High School to gun down her husband, Steven Demetrius, Franklin County Municipal Court records obtained by WSYX state. The mother-of-three reportedly handed the teen a $250 down payment to murder her husband of over two decades. She has denied all of the allegations with her public defender calling them fabricated, according to ABC News. Columbus police reportedly accessed a recorded conversation between the 44-year-old and the teen, in which she was heard confirming the remaining payment, according to court documents. The teen's mom reportedly discovered the information on her son's phone and alerted police. This particular teacher was attempting to groom this young person into committing murder, a Columbus police spokesperson said. open image in gallery Stephanie Demetrius, 44, from Columbus, Ohio, has been charged with first-degree conspiracy, after allegedly organizing a murder-for-hire plot against her husband ( Franklin County Sheriff's Office ) Franklin County domestic case records show that Demetrius previously filed for divorce in September 2017 from her husband. The case was closed but was reopened in April 2024 and is ongoing. Investigators are still trying to determine a motive for the alleged plot. In a statement provided to The Independent, the Academy for Urban Scholars High School said: The Academy for Urban Scholars High School is aware of the recent media coverage involving an employee. The school said it had taken immediate action to terminate her employment. The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority. We remain committed to maintaining a secure, focused learning environment where students can thrive academically and personally, the statement added. The student who was allegedly targeted by the teacher will be offered counseling, officials said. Demetrius was released on a $150,000 cash surety bond and her preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 11, reported ABC News. She has been ordered to stay clear of the victim. The Independent contacted the suspect and her husbands respective divorce lawyers for comment. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Convicted killer Taylor Schabusiness was tackled in court on Friday after she suddenly lunged at her own attorney just moments into a preliminary hearing in a case where she's accused of attacking a prison guard. Schabusiness looked right at the camera and then pounced on her attorney, screaming something incomprehensible, before she was tackled by several sheriffs deputies. Her attorney could be seen shaking his head as she was hauled off. He did not appear to be injured. Last month, Schabusiness was found competent to continue the case on new charges that she allegedly attacked a prison guard while behind bars at Taycheedah Correctional Institution in Wisconsin. Schabusiness is currently serving a life sentence at Taycheedah after being convicted in 2023 of killing and dismembering Shad Thyrion during a meth-fueled sexual tryst in 2022 before sexually assaulting his corpse. She decapitated him and dumped his head in a bucket for his traumatized mother to find inside her home in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Less than a year into her sentence, Schabusiness allegedly attacked a prison guard on July 24. She told the guard that she had a staple in her arm and needed medical care, according to court documents. Schabusiness was taken to the medical room, but when the nurse attempted to remove the staple with tweezers, Schabusiness lunged at the nurse and then grabbed a small metal table and swung it at the guard, making contact with her head. The two struggled until the guard used pepper spray on her, according to the criminal complaint. According to the nurse, Schabusiness laughed during the entire attack. open image in gallery Schabusiness allegedly attacked a prison guard on July 24 After Schabusinesss outburst in court on Friday, she was removed from the courtroom and the judge said the hearing would resume with the defendant appearing via Zoom. Fridays incident isn't Schabusiness's first violent outburst in court. In early 2023, she was handcuffed when she attacked her then-attorney after the judge delayed her murder trial. A short struggle ensued before a deputy in the room scrambled to restrain her. That attorney withdrew from her case two weeks later. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Prime Minister of Iraq's Kurdistan Region, Masrour Barzani, has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports. "His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, On behalf of the Kurdistan Regional Government, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you and the people of Azerbaijan on the blessed occasion of Eid al-Fitr. May this joyous celebration bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to your nation and to Muslims around the world. Eid is a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewal - values that inspire us to work together in the spirit of unity and understanding. I look forward to continuing our close collaboration and strengthening the bonds of friendship between our peoples," reads the letter. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Flash U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of new reciprocal tariffs on imports from all trading partners has drawn backlash from countries around the world, with countermeasures already pledged by some. The universal tariffs imposed by the United States -- a 10-percent "minimum baseline tariff" to be imposed on all imports -- will take effect on April 5, and the "individualized reciprocal higher tariff" on the countries and regions with which the United States "has the largest trade deficits" will take effect on April 9, according to a White House document. "Resentment Day" On social media platform X, Czech Minister of Industry and Trade Lukas Vlcek called Trump's new tariffs a "mistake." Also, Manfred Weber, the leader of the European People's Party and a member of the European Parliament, called April 2 -- the new tariff announcement day dubbed by Trump as "liberation day" for the United States -- as "resentment day." "Donald Trump's tariffs don't defend fair trade: They attack it out of fear and hurt both sides of the Atlantic," he said. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday expressed deep regret over the U.S. move in a statement, calling it "a major blow to the world economy," and warned against a devastating impact. "The global economy will massively suffer," she said. "Uncertainty will spiral and trigger the rise of further protectionism. The consequences will be dire for millions of people around the globe." Spanish Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo on Thursday said the United States' new tariffs are "unfair and unjustified" in an interview with radio station RNE, adding that the Spanish government will take action to protect companies and consumers from the effects of the tariffs. Speaking to local media on Thursday morning, British Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said he is "disappointed" by the additional tariffs imposed on Britain, noting the 10-percent tariff is not a "fair reflection of how we currently trade." In Asia, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi on Thursday expressed "serious concern" about the U.S. decision to impose reciprocal tariffs, saying the new tariffs could have a "big negative impact" on the global economy and the multilateral trade system. South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who is serving as acting president following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, told an emergency meeting on economic security in Seoul: "As the global tariff war is coming to a reality, the government should pour out all of its capabilities to overcome a trade crisis." The German Institute for Economic Research in a statement issued on Wednesday ahead of Trump's new tariffs announcement warned that the United States has made a significant departure from multilateralism in its trade policy. The introduction of new, extensive tariffs poses a serious threat to global supply chains. Grave concerns among businesses Business leaders in Britain voiced concerns on Wednesday that the new tariffs on their exports, even at 10 percent, could weigh heavily on British industries. Rain Newton-Smith, chief executive of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), said: "There are no winners in a trade war. Today's announcements are deeply troubling for businesses and will have significant ramifications around the world." The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) believed small exporters in the country would be hard hit, as 59 percent of them trade with the United States. "Tariffs will cause untold damage to small businesses trying to trade their way into profit," said Tina McKenzie, the FSB's policy chair. The Manufacturers Association of Israel (MAI) said in a statement Thursday that the United States imposing a 17-percent tariff on imports from Israel is worrying. "The decision of the U.S. President to apply the tariff policy to Israel could harm Israel's economic stability, deter foreign investment in the economy, and weaken the competitiveness of Israeli companies in the U.S. market," it said in a statement. On Tuesday, Israel announced the lifting of all tariffs imposed on imports from the United States, but the move failed to avert the new tariffs imposed by the United States. Countermeasures pledged In Paris, French government spokesperson Sophie Primas said on Thursday the European Union (EU) is ready for a trade war, with retaliatory tariffs to be imposed on all goods and service products from the United States by the end of April. The initial levies in retaliation to the U.S. tariffs on EU steel and aluminum products would be put in place around mid-April, and the tariffs targeting all American imports are expected to be ready probably by the end of April, she said when speaking to the broadcaster RTL on Wednesday. In response to the U.S. tariffs, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer told business leaders gathering at 10 Downing Street on Thursday morning that the close ally of the United States is "prepared." "Decisions we take in the coming days and weeks will be guided only by our national interest. In the interest of our economy," Starmer said. On Wednesday before Trump's announcement of the new tariffs, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reiterated her call for negotiations to avoid a trade war with the United States, while signaling a shift away from her previous opposition to European retaliatory tariffs. "We must work in every way to avert a trade war," she said during a cultural event. "But this obviously does not rule out considering appropriate responses to defend our industries if necessary." In Brazil, the National Congress passed legislation allowing the South American country to impose reciprocal trade and environmental measures in response to foreign restrictions, on Wednesday just hours after Trump's announcement of the sweeping tariffs. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. During a business trip to the capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament Sahiba Gafarova held a meeting with Martin Chungong, the Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), on April 4, the Parliament's Press and Public Relations Department told Trend. The discussions focused on issues of cooperation between the Azerbaijani Parliament and the IPU. It was noted that the IPU serves as an effective platform for international cooperation. The meeting emphasized that the Azerbaijani Parliament, which collaborates with international parliamentary organizations on both bilateral and multilateral bases, attaches great importance to expanding its relations with the IPU. The successful organization of several joint events has created further opportunities for deepening this cooperation. The meeting also highlighted the positive assessment of Azerbaijan's active and high-level representation within the organization. There was also expressed satisfaction regarding the representation of the Azerbaijani Parliament deputies in the organizations governing bodies. Additionally, cooperation between the IPU and the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement was discussed. Chungong praised the activities of the Parliamentary Network and highlighted the importance of cooperation between the two organizations. Other topics of importance to both parties were also discussed at the discussion. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Advertisement Eating outBest of An Americans guide to Melbournes best barbecue, from Texas brisket to Carolina pork Which pitmaster is doing the best sausage? Who goes wild with their sides? Where do you need to pre-order from? This venue-by-venue guide breaks it down. Quincy Malesovas April 5, 2025 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 America sometimes feels like 50 little countries in one no wonder its residents hold fierce allegiance to their regional food specialties. There are heated debates over which state makes the best pizza, the best sub (aka hoagie, aka hero, depending on where you live) and, of course, the best barbecue. Fancy Hanks brisket sandwich. Aaron Francis I couldnt pick one region, says Lance Rosen, who travelled around the US researching the menu for what would become Big Boy BBQ in Caulfield South, allegedly Melbournes first American barbecue restaurant, having opened in 2011. Youve really got to respect the heritage and all the traditional styles, he adds. The history of barbecue is as layered as its smoky flavour. The term, a derivative of barbacoa, traces back to the Taino people of the Caribbean, who smoked meat and seafood on wooden frames set above an open fire. The technique was passed to enslaved African people who refined the style as they put down roots in the American South, shaping the slow-cooked, smoke-kissed barbecue we know today. Advertisement Chef Jarrod Di Blasi tending to Fancy Hanks lamb sausage. Aaron Francis Eating your way across America, youll find four distinct regional styles, each one influenced by indigenous, African and European traditions. The meats are mostly the same wherever you go; its what youre adding that differs, says Rosen. The pitmasters in all the different regions are taking influences theyve had and putting their own spins on it. In North Carolina, where this writer grew up, pulled pork is king. Its shredded, doused in a vinegar-based sauce and served in bread rolls or alongside slaw and hushpuppies, the deep-fried cornmeal nuggets that dominate the region. Hickory-smoked ribs take centre stage in Memphis, Tennessee, either served dry (spice-rubbed) or wet (brushed with sauce). Kansas City, Missouri, leans even saucier with its signature tomato-molasses blend slathered on everything from turkey to burnt ends (pieces cut from the fatty point of brisket and smoked until caramelised). And in Texas, its all about beef brisket cooked low and slow a natural choice for a state built on cattle ranching. Advertisement Beef short ribs at Bluestone BBQ. Melbourne may not have the same deep-rooted barbecue culture, but the scene is growing, shaped by expats and well-travelled locals who have eaten their way through the US barbecue belt and are adding their own flair. Whether youre craving pulled pork, smoked ribs or standout brisket, these seven spots are worth seeking out (especially if a trip to the States is off the cards for you). For slow-smoked lamb: Fancy Hanks American barbecue typically leans on pork and beef, but Fancy Hanks makes a case for Australias national meat. Choose from braised lamb shank glazed with adobo (a smoky Mexican-style chilli sauce), or juicy merguez-style smoked lamb sausage wound into a tight spiral and served with chicken salt slaw. Advertisement Fancy Hanks does a smoked lamb sausage, for an Aussie spin on American barbecue. Aaron Francis Throw in sides like brisket baked beans or fancy mac and cheese with house-smoked bacon lardons and pork scratchings (also known as crackling). Despite its location on the first floor of a CBD building, the kitchen sticks to tradition, cooking everything in a custom-built, two-tonne smoker named Puffing Billie thats taken residence in the venue since 2016. 1/79 Bourke Street, Melbourne, fancyhanks.com For barbecue sandwiches: Il Texas Barbecue This newcomer is smoking some of the citys best Texas-style barbecue in the unlikeliest of places Italian food hall Il Mercato Centrale at the citys Southern Cross end. Its led by Texas native Tim Jordan and Aussie pitmaster and executive chef Nathan Zammit (both behind Armstrong Barbecue in Geelong). Advertisement Brisket is smoked for up to 18 hours at Il Texas Barbecue. While smoking is usually an open-air operation, the duo have built a smoker directly into their stall and cook brisket and pork for up to 18 hours. If youre after something quick and handheld, sandwiches (made with Martins potato buns) are a great place to start. Choose from pulled pork, chopped Black Angus brisket or a brisket and jalapeno cheddar sausage combo. 546 Collins Street, Melbourne, mercatocentrale.com.au For standout sausage: Red Gum BBQ At Australias first B Corp-certified restaurant, owners Melissa and Martin Goffin (from the US and England respectively) exclusively source proteins from ethical Victorian producers and smoke them over local red gum. Otways pork is prepared Carolina-style, the brisket uses Gippsland beef, and chicken smoked breast with the peppery mayo-based Alabama white sauce hails from Bannockburn. Advertisement Red Gum BBQ occupies a large shed in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula. Simon Schluter While each is worth a try, the unexpected highlight is the house-made sausage. Made from brisket and pork trimmings and studded with cheddar and jalapeno, its a snappy, spicy bite that reflects the restaurants sustainability ethos. You can add a slice of white bread for $1 if you want to turn it into a sausage sanga. 87 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill, redgumbbq.com.au For all things pork: Big Earles Tucked in an industrial part of Port Melbourne, Big Earles began as a way for owner Grant Slotboom to feed the crew at his familys film set company, Illusions. Word spread and eight years later, its a full-fledged barbecue joint known for super-sized platters, rotating sandwich specials and its annual barbecue festival, Burning Earle. Here, its all about pork, cooked over red gum and ironbark in a repurposed Qantas jet engine compressor. Advertisement The quiet standout is the pork butt, a tender shoulder cut. Find it on the Mega Tasting Plate alongside saucy, fall-off-the-bone ribs and spicy pork sausage, or go for the pork butt-loaded fries. While the venue awaits a liquor licence, you can BYO in the company of vintage signs and larger-than-life film set statues. 273 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne, instagram.com/bigearlesbbq Southern Graces impressive line-up of side, clockwise from top left: Pickles, macaroni cheese, Texas-style chilli con carne, chips, potato salad, cornbread, greens and coleslaw. Wayne Taylor For barbecue with all the fixings: Southern Grace Diner by Big Boy BBQ South African-born Lance Rosen first fell in love with barbecue on a trip to Kansas City. Since then, hes built a 13-year-old barbecue institution drawing from all over the map, including Australia. Advertisement His brisket, rubbed in a Texas-style spice blend (salt, pepper, garlic and additional spices) and cooked over pecan wood, is a staple but youll also find rotating specials like pastrami, Sichuan-spiced ribs and jerk chicken. Sides, which riff on soul food classics, are no afterthought. The mac and cheese is among the closest approximations of gooey, American-style elbow noodles youll find in Melbourne. Cornbread arrives in massive, perfectly sweet hunks true to Southern tradition ready to soak up sauce. And desserts such as peanut butter chocolate pies lean into Americana excess. 764 Glen Huntly Road, Caulfield South,bigboybbq.com.au For brisket and burnt ends: The Bearded Pig What started as a food truck in Hayley and Matt Antonellos driveway has grown in 18 months to become a cult-favourite barbecue spot in a northern suburbs warehouse, with lines often stretching down the block. Advertisement The brisket, rubbed with salt, pepper, tomato powder, mustard and other spices, is slow-cooked over Victorian red gum for 16 hours. Pile it into sandwiches with double cheese and chipotle mayo, or get it in a combo pack with pulled pork, mac and cheese, apple slaw and a brioche bun. The Bearded Pig has built a grassroots following in 18 months. Burnt ends, a fan favourite, are double-smoked and lacquered in the house barbecue sauce. (Pro tip: add them to any order for $19.) There are a few communal tables but the venue mainly caters for takeaway and items sell out fast, so pre-ordering is recommended. 39 Mologa Road, Heidelberg West, thebeardedpig.com.au Bluestone serves its barbecue with arepas, in a nod to its owners South American roots. Advertisement For Latin-American barbecue: Bluestone American BBQ Southern and South American barbecue share a common foundation: slow-cooked meats cooked over regional wood varieties and eaten communally. At Bluestone, co-owner Al Malel draws from both, blending the Uruguayan grilling methods he grew up with and the American smoking techniques he later mastered. Malel uses applewood to add depth to paprika-rubbed, barbecue-glazed chicken thighs. Chimichurri, the herb-forward Latin American condiment, is offered as an alternative to barbecue sauce. Cuban-style pulled pork with Venezuelan arepas (corn cakes) sits alongside classic Texan brisket. Even the Southern staple of grits gets a twist, slow-cooked for six hours and laced with Californian-style pepper jack cheese. 470 Sydney Road, Coburg, bluestoneamericanbbq.com Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up Advertisement Review Eating outFitzroy Is it worth paying $30 for this cup of coffee at Fitzroys shiny new cafe? Dont worry, $5.50 flat whites, as well as bagels and other popular items, are also available at Tobys Estate sleek new flagship venue. Dani Valent April 4, 2025 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 As featured in the May 2025 hit list. See all stories . 1 / 7 The Savage Coffee Parabolic fillter coffee ($30). Bonnie Savage 2 / 7 The sleek cafe space. Bonnie Savage 3 / 7 The barista pours 91C hot water over the coffee grounds, and the coffee then drips down through the filter into the glass beaker. Bonnie Savage 4 / 7 Lattes for less than $30 are also available. Bonnie Savage 5 / 7 Bagels topped with cucumber and cream cheese laced with gochujang. Bonnie Savage 6 / 7 Pesto egg smooshed bagels on the menu. Bonnie Savage 7 / 7 Take a seat at the slick bar at Tobys Estate. Bonnie Savage Previous Slide Next Slide 14 / 20 How we score Cafe$$$$ When youve ordered a beverage that costs $30 a pour, it seems fitting to sniff, swirl and sip with reverence. So I let the aromas envelop me before I wet my lips. I slowly roll the liquid in my mouth, reaching for the rockmelon notes my waiter mentioned. Sometimes I feel like a suggestible chump when a sommelier tells me a wine smells like, say, saddle leather. Today, my palate opens, the fruit flavours unfurling. And because this isnt wine, its coffee, and my guide isnt a grape guru but a barista Im becoming more alert with every sip. The $30 coffee is the most expensive drop at the new, sleek Tobys Estate Melbourne flagship. This is a temple to coffee in the way nearby Lune is a pilgrimage site for croissant acolytes. Baristas work at a central curved counter, on show like rock stars but more likely to have a friendly chat. Take a seat at the slick bar at Tobys Estate. Bonnie Savage Its not all rock-star pricing, though. A flat white is $5.50: choose between super-smooth house espresso or an intense, almost spicy Brunswick blend. Advertisement The simple food menu is built around bagels with lively toppings. Cucumber slices overlap on cream cheese laced with gochujang, a spicy Korean ferment. Pesto-smooshed egg salad is piled with iceberg. Avocado is smashed with peas. There are pastries and granola, too, but coffee is the go. Cucumber and cream cheese-topped bagels with a Korean twist are on the menu. Bonnie Savage In 1997, Sydney lawyer Toby Smith found himself so obsessed with coffee he started roasting beans in his mums garage. Tobys Estate became a pioneering Australian supplier of, and advocate for, quality coffee sourced directly from growers. Baristas work at a central curved counter, on show like rock stars but more likely to have a friendly chat. The company is now owned by huge Japanese roaster UCC Group, which is, apparently, pretty hands-off. About 800 cafes around the country use Tobys Estate beans, including 100 in Victoria, but there hasnt been a bricks-and-mortar brand presence in Melbourne since a Brunswick outlet closed in 2017. Its brave to relaunch in Fitzroy, a suburb replete with indie cafes. Do we need this, Melbourne? No, but I dont begrudge it, either. The more players making next-level coffee accessible, the more consumers understand the value of this miraculous bean. Advertisement Lattes for much less than $30 are also available. Bonnie Savage The Tobys team is well-trained in the product but also in tone: no one will snigger if you dont know carbonic maceration from a cup of chino. Keen cuppers can school up at free tastings, too. Was it worth $30 for a hit of Savage Parabolic? Absolutely. My expensive coffee was made with prized geisha beans grown in the Panamanian rainforest by a farmer called Jamison Savage, who ferments them with a flavour-boosting technique (hello, carbonic maceration). Tobys Estate air-freighted just 20 kilograms to Australia and divided it into single portions which are stored frozen. When I order, the coffee is ground, then extracted via drip filter in a display that edges toward ceremony. A long-spouted kettle heats water to 91 degrees. A maestro delicately pours the water over the grounds, then decants 220ml of liquid into a beaker, which is served with a warm, ceramic cup. You cant compare coffee like this to a kickalong from the 7-Eleven. Id rank it alongside an arthouse movie ticket or a nice glass of wine, something with a story that you can analyse or simply let wash over you. It also opens up the notion of coffee as a luxury which it is. The coffee supply chain is complex and precarious. The occasional $30 cup reminds us how lucky we are to get our daily buzz at a fraction of the price. The low-down Vibe: Geeky, friendly coffee temple Go-to dish: Gochujang cucumber bagel ($17); Brunswick-blend flat white ($5.50); Sangria Colombia filter coffee ($12); Savage Coffee Parabolic filter coffee ($30) Cost: About $50 for two This review was originally published in Good Weekend magazine Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant cant pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide. Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up For those observers who suggest we should take Donald Trump seriously but not literally, his Liberation Day speech in the White Houses Rose Garden may be the textbook case. Listeners could well have come away with the incorrect impression that the US president was banning imports of Australian beef from midnight. Because thats what he said would happen. As our North America correspondent, Michael Koziol, points out, even the basis for calculating what Trump calls reciprocal tariffs isnt grounded in any coherent approach to economics. The Albanese government has emphasised that Australia got off comparatively lightly, with only the baseline 10 per cent tariffs (though strangely, Norfolk Island is in a category of its own). After all, the US has a trade surplus with us and only 5 per cent of our exports go there. Even cattle farmers, whose beef is our largest export to Americans, are sanguine about the prospect of Trumps tariffs, provided that this countrys next government, whatever its complexion, does not contemplate relaxing our biosecurity safeguards in any negotiation. This was a fantasy. And now its happened. Key to the design of Yeast 2.0 is a system called SCRaMbLE (Synthetic Chromosome Rearrangement and Modification by LoxP-mediated Evolution). Its an evolution button, said Goold; when triggered by a certain chemical, the yeast rapidly reshuffles its DNA. That produces millions of genetically tweaked yeast cells, like evolution at warp-speed, to produce a flurry of variants that mightnt arise naturally for millions of years. Most of the mutations result in death. But some are valuable; perhaps producing a more heat-tolerant yeast or one that could make higher yields of ethanol or medicine. Yeast is also used for making HPV and hepatitis B vaccines. If were using yeast for bio-manufacturing, like the next COVID vaccine, this is a really important step to being able to do that in Australia, in NSW, Goold said. Hes most excited by Yeast 2.0s potential to accelerate research into the secrets of plant life. Synthetic chromosomes can be neatly organised into sections, unlike in nature, where genes are splooshed randomly across the genome like files across a chaotic computer desktop. Sydneys skyline depicted in fluorescent bacteria designed by Goold in the lab, using methods adapted from yeast art techniques developed in Boekes lab. Credit: Dr Hugh Goold That modular design of Yeast 2.0 will allow scientists to swap in genes from other organisms and study which exact strands of DNA are key to a crops heat tolerance or the deadly effect of a fungal pathogen, for example. This visionary project found an Australian home in a serendipitous meeting of microbial minds. In 2013, Professor Ian Paulsen introduced himself to Macquarie Universitys new deputy vice-chancellor of research, Professor Sakkie Pretorius, a fellow microbiologist with connections in the yeast world. Loading The talk turned to synthetic biology, a field going gangbusters overseas that had little presence in Australia. The pair resolved to change that. We didnt want to dip our toes in the pond. We wanted to do something big, Paulsen said. Pretorius reached out to Boeke, who told him a team tasked with building one of the chromosomes for Yeast 2.0 had folded due to funding woes. The Australians picked up the torch. Their first question: how the hell do you build a synthetic chromosome? Paulsen sat with the projects first employee, Natalie Curach, and pored over the single paper available at the time that described how to do it. The paper was incomprehensible, so Curach was dispatched to labs in New York and London to study the process first-hand. She returned with a million-dollar equipment wishlist. Dr Hugh Goold at his lab within the ARC Centre of Excellent for Synthetic Biology at Macquarie University. Credit: Janie Barrett NSWs inaugural chief scientist, Mary OKane, and the NSW Department of Primary Industries came aboard with funding, recognising the potential of the tech to enhance agriculture. The department hired Goold and the project began in earnest. The synthetic DNA strands were designed digitally and then made by a company that chemically crafts custom DNA. Then, one chunk at a time, Goold replaced the genome of normal lab yeast with the artificial DNA by culturing a concoction of yeast, lithium acetate, polyethylene glycol and herring sperm. The sperm protects the yeasts genetic matter from agents that break down DNA, said Paulsen, who is a co-author of the paper. By putting in a lot of other DNA, it protects the DNA were trying to get into the cell, like the chaff you fire out of planes to protect them from anti-aircraft missiles, Paulsen said. Once the yeast accepted a synthetic section of DNA it was tested for viability. Many of the changes interfered with the organisms mitochondria or caused cellular proteins to go astray. Goold then hunted the wayward DNA behind the faults, a gruelling process called debugging. Two plates of yeast, one with fluorescent proteins which help researchers confirm cells have incorporated synthetic DNA. Credit: Dr Hugh Goold We had no clue it would take 10 years, Paulsen said. Hughs been heroic, hes been in there since the start. At times its been soul-destroying to keep going. As the chromosome took shape, Australias capabilities in synthetic biology grew around it; the ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, which Paulsen leads, was established partly off the back of the project. Loading Now weve spun out nine start-up companies that raised $200 million in venture capital. From $21 million investments from the government weve got a tenfold return, Paulsen said. While microorganisms and agriculture are the immediate focus for these researchers, the underlying science could in future decades allow for the complete redesign of plants and animals. Youll get to a point where, literally, people sit at a computer, design an organism, order the DNA, put it in their organism of choice, and then theyve got a new, designer organism, Paulsen said. The scale of the cigarette black market in Queensland is revealed in new documents obtained by Brisbane Times. Government data acquired under right to information laws shows seizures in the state rose significantly in the second half of last year, despite the legitimate tobacco market shrinking nationally. About 939 alleged breaches were reported in the six months to December. In the 12 months before that, just 439 breaches were recorded. An illegally imported cigarette packet discarded in Brisbanes CBD. Credit: William Davis About 29 million cigarettes were seized in Queensland between July 2023 and December 2024. Petro Georgiou, among the last of the tough-minded small l Liberals and a man known among many as the conscience of the Liberal Party, has died aged 77. He spent his parliamentary career, from 1994 to 2010, sitting on the backbench, becoming famous for standing up to Liberal prime minister John Howard on human rights. He refused an early offer to join Howards frontbench, making it clear he put a higher value on exercising his freedom to oppose the partys hardline policies, particularly towards asylum seekers. Petro Georgiou, former member for Kooyong. Credit: Fairfax Archives As member for the blue ribbon Melbourne electorate of Kooyong famously the seat of his old political hero, Liberal Party founder Sir Robert Menzies, and now held by a teal Georgiou was a voice for diversity and considered a champion of Indigenous Australians, underdogs and outsiders. Outside Yoons official residence, thousands of supporters cried and chanted slogans when they saw the news on a giant TV screen. We will absolutely not be shaken! a protest leader shouted on stage. Anyone who accepts this ruling and prepares for an early presidential election is our enemy. Thousands of Yoon supporters cried and chanted slogans when they saw the news. Credit: AP The greatest honour of my life An election will be held within two months to replace Yoon, but a festering national divide over his impeachment will likely continue and could complicate South Koreas efforts to deal with US President Donald Trumps America First policies and North Koreas expanding ties with Russia. Yoon said in a statement issued via his defence team that he deeply regretted failing to live up to the publics expectations, but stopped short of explicitly accepting the verdict. There have been fears he would incite efforts to resist removal, as he earlier vowed to fight to the end. He added that he would pray for the country and its people. It has been the greatest honour of my life to serve our nation, Yoon said. Loading Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, the countrys acting leader, promised in a televised speech to ensure there are no gaps in national security and diplomacy and to maintain public safety and order. Respecting the will of our sovereign people, I will do my utmost to manage the next presidential election in accordance with the Constitution and the law, ensuring a smooth transition to the next administration, Han said. Surveys show Lee Jae-myung, leader of the main liberal opposition Democratic Party, is the early favourite to win the byelection to choose Yoons successor. Lee, who is facing trials for corruption and other charges, welcomed the ruling and credited the South Korean people for protecting our democratic republic. A popular prosecutor The courts acting chief, Moon Hyung-bae, said the eight-member bench upheld Yoons impeachment because his martial law decree seriously violated the constitution and other laws. Credit: AP Before becoming president in 2022, Yoon worked as prosecutor for about 26 years, establishing an image as a strong-minded, uncompromising prosecutor who didnt yield to pressure from powerful figures. Yoon rose to stardom in 2013, when he publicly accused his boss of pressuring him to drop a high-stakes investigations into allegations that the state intelligence agency had carried out an illegal online campaign to help conservative Park Geun-hye win the previous years presidential election. During a hearing at parliament, Yoon famously said, Im not loyal to [high-level] people. He was demoted, but after Parks government was toppled over a separate corruption scandal in 2017, liberal president Moon Jae-in made Yoon head of a Seoul prosecutors office that investigated Park and other conservative leaders. Yoon was later appointed as Moons prosecutor-general. Police officers stand guard near Yoon supporters. Credit: Bloomberg Political rookie of the year In 2021, Yoon left the Moon administration and entered politics following disputes over probes of Moon allies. Moons supporters accused Yoon of attempting to frustrate Moons push to reform the Korean prosecution service and boost his political standing. Yoon, for his part, called the Moon government corrupt, incompetent and arrogant. Yoon then joined the opposition People Power Party, the countrys biggest conservative party, whose leaders he previously investigated, as it was looking to embrace a popular outside figure to lead its fight to regain power in the following years presidential election. In 2022, in his first national election campaign, Yoon defeated Lee in the countrys most closely fought presidential election. The election race got nasty, with Yoon describing Lees party as Hitler and Mussolini while an associate called Lees purported aides parasites. Lees allies called Yoon a beast, a dictator and an empty can and derided his wife over claims she had had plastic surgery. A turbulent presidency On foreign policy, Yoon was credited with working hard to reinforce South Koreas military alliance with the United States and repairing disputes with Japan over historical traumas to build a stronger trilateral security partnership to cope with North Koreas advancing nuclear program. In April 2023, Yoon charmed a White House state dinner by singing American Pie at the request of then-president Joe Biden. In August 2023, Yoon, Biden and Japans then-prime minister Fumio Kishida met at Camp David in their countries first stand-alone trilateral summit, where they agreed to bolster defence co-operation. Yoon and Kishida revived stalled high-level talks and withdrew reciprocal economic restrictions imposed under their predecessors. Loading But domestically, Yoons time in office was marred by near-constant political strife with Lees party, unprecedented even in South Koreas deeply polarised political world. With control of the National Assembly, the Democratic Party filed a total of 30 impeachment motions against senior officials. None has yet been upheld by the Constitutional Court, except that of Yoon. The Yoon administration vetoed opposition-led bills about 40 times. Eventually, Yoon tried to break through the gridlock by declaring martial law. Hundreds of soldiers were dispatched to the assembly, election offices and other sites. He says that it was an attempt to appeal for the publics help to overcome the wickedness of the Democratic Party. Critics say he was simply aiming to use force to impose his will on the legislature. In his martial law announcement, the first of its kind in more than 40 years, Yoon called the Democratic Party-led assembly a den of criminals, a monster and anti-state forces. Democratic Party leaders lambasted Yoons martial law, calling him an alcoholic, a madman and ringleader of a rebellion. Ultimately, enough lawmakers, including some from the ruling party, managed to enter the assembly to vote down his decree unanimously. Yoon was impeached by the liberal opposition-controlled National Assembly on December 14. Wife hit by scandals Some observers say the martial law decree was more likely driven by Yoons hopes to frustrate an opposition-led bid to open a special investigation into allegations involving his wife, Kim Keon Hee. Kims allegations include spy camera footage showing the first lady accepting a luxury bag as a gift from a pastor; speculation she was involved in a stock price manipulation scheme; and revelations that she, along with Yoon, exerted inappropriate influence on the People Power Party to pick a candidate to run for a parliamentary by-election in 2022. AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 4, 2025 -- Joose, a new, intense shade of orange, is now available as an exterior color on Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator Joose joins other new-for-2025 Jeep brand colors, including Mojito!, Fathom Blue and military olive drab-inspired '41 Available to order now at a U.S. MSRP of $895 Orange you glad Jeep brand offers such bold exterior paint colors? Today, to mark 4x4 Day, Jeep unveils its newest can't-miss exterior shade, Joose. The vibrant shade of orange is available to order now on both the iconic Jeep Wrangler and the industry's most capable midsize pickup, Jeep Gladiator. "The Jeep brand defies the sea of sameness in the SUV segment with bold, limited-edition colors," said Bob Broderdorf, CEO, Jeep brand. "A striking shade like Joose lets our customers express their individuality and stand out, whether they're navigating city streets or conquering the next mountain pass." Joose is just one of a host of bold or limited-edition colors from Jeep brand in recent years, including Mojito! green, High Velocity yellow, Tuscadero pink and the new-for-2025 military olive drab-inspired '41. Available to order now on all 2025 Jeep Gladiator and most 2025 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler 4xe models, Joose is priced at a U.S. MSRP of $895. Jeep Gladiator Jeep Gladiator is engineered from the ground up to be the most off-road capable Jeep truck ever, building on a rich heritage of tough, dependable Jeep pickup trucks with an unmatched combination of rugged utility, authentic Jeep design, open-air freedom, clever functionality and versatility. Available in Sport, Sport S, Willys, Trail Rated Rubicon and the brand's only Desert Rated model, Mojave, Jeep Gladiator features a standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, rated at 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, and a versatile cargo box. The 2025 Jeep Gladiator delivers unmatched capability with unsurpassed 4x4 max towing of up to 7,700 pounds and best-in-class payload of up to 1,725 pounds. Jeep Wrangler Backed by more than 80 years of 4x4 engineering expertise, the 2025 Jeep Wrangler is the most recognizable and capable vehicle on the planet. Jeep Wrangler builds on the brand's goal to deliver freedom of choice, offering an unmatched combination of leading off-road capability, iconic Jeep design, open-air freedom, advanced powertrains and a refined interior, as well as a host of innovative safety and advanced technology features, including the class-exclusive plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4xe, the best-selling PHEV in America four years in a row. Jeep Brand For more than 80 years, Jeep has been the global leader in SUVs, delivering legendary off-road capability, advanced technology and exceptional versatility for those who seek adventure. With a commitment to innovation, the Jeep brand offers a diverse lineup of vehicles powered by internal combustion engines, hybrid technology and all-electric drivetrains. The brand's dedication to customer satisfaction is reflected in Jeep Wave, a premium owner loyalty and customer care program that provides exclusive benefits and 24/7 support. Built on a heritage of freedom, adventure, authenticity and passion, Jeep continues to set the standard for rugged yet refined vehicles designed to conquer it all. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Court hearings on the criminal case against citizens of the Republic of Armenia Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, Bako Sahakyan, Davit Ishkhanyan, Davit Babayan, Lyova Mnatsakanyan, and others, who are accused of committing crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, including the preparation and conduct of a war of aggression, acts of genocide, violation of the laws and customs of warfare, as well as terrorism, financing of terrorism, forcible seizure of power, forcible retention of power, and numerous other crimes as a result of Armenia's military aggression, continued on April 4, Trend reports. The hearings held at the Baku Military Court were presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev and a panel consisting of Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev (reserve judge Gunel Samadova). Each of the accused was provided with an interpreter in the language of their choice, as well as defense attorneys. Present at the review hearings were the accused and their defense attorneys, some of the victims, their legal successors and representatives, as well as prosecutors in charge of public prosecution. During the hearings, the accused, a former member of the Armenian armed forces who held the military rank of Major General, Armenian citizen David Manukyan, was questioned by prosecutors in charge of public prosecution. He said that he had started fighting against Azerbaijan by joining the Shusha Separate Battalion, also known as the Dashnak Battalion. When answering questions from public prosecutor Fuad Musayev, the accused admitted that he had fought against the Republic of Azerbaijan in that battalion and that he had used weapons during attacks. David Manukyan said that during the First Karabakh War, he had participated in battles in Aghdara district and in Kalbajar district for 15 days as part of the Dashnak Battalion. He noted that he then served as platoon commander, company commander, and chief of staff in the Shusha Battalion. In response to questions from public prosecutor Vusal Abdullayev, David Manukyan said that while serving in the military in the formerly occupied territories of Azerbaijan, he was sent by the Republic of Armenia to study at the Frunze Military Academy in Russia. Speaking about the fact that a number of officers serving in the military in the formerly occupied territories of Azerbaijan were sent to other countries to receive military education, he said, Our servicemen were sent to study in Russia, the USA, Germany and Greece. This was organized by the Armenian Ministry of Defense. While the servicemen were studying military courses abroad, their salaries were also paid by the Armenian Ministry of Defense. The accused also said that he had received the rank of Major General by order of Armenian President Armen Sarkissian, adding, I was presented with the rank by President Armen Sarkissian at the presidential residence on the Day of the Armenian Armed Forces, on January 28, 2020. According to him, he was later appointed to the position of First Deputy Commander (for combat training) in the self-styled republics army by order of Armenian President Armen Sarkissian. He said that he held that position during the 44-day war in 2020 and received instructions from defense minister Jalal Harutyunyan. David Manukyan also stated that a reserve command post had been established on the ground floor of the command staff located in the once occupied territories of Azerbaijan. He said, The task was that if the command post were to be destroyed, I would temporarily take over the duties. The accused also spoke about the arrival of the third unit of the Armenian armed forces from military unit No. 99192, also referred to as the Brave Unit, in the then occupied territories of Azerbaijan during the 44-day war in 2020. The unit was formed in Armenia on October 11, 2020, and sent to Karabakh to be subordinated to the army commander. The commander told me to enquire about it, so I went to the mentioned place. There were 90 people of different ages and backgrounds there. The unit was financed by Armenia. After the war, the unit commander came up to me. He had two lists: 90 and 20 people. He said that if not all 90 people, then at least 20 should be awarded... David Manukyan confirmed that the so-called republics army had been reduced after the 44-day war but did not elaborate on the reason. He then noted, I was discharged from the army by order of the President of Armenia at the end of 2021. The accused also said that while he was a military unit commander in Aghdara, he was awarded the Second Class Battle Cross medal by Armenian President Robert Kocharian. He noted that the defense minister of the self-styled entity in the previously occupied territories of Azerbaijan was appointed by the Republic of Armenia. David Manukyan said that the president of the so-called republic did not have the authority to appoint the defense minister. The accused said further, Depending on the system of governance in the Republic of Armenia, the defense minister was appointed either by the president or another official. The accused pointed out that Armenia also awarded high military ranks to officers serving in the so-called army of the so-called republic. He acknowledged that weapons had been brought from Armenia to the previously occupied territories of Azerbaijan. At the same time, he said that officers and other military personnel were sent from Armenia to the previously occupied territories for military service. David Manukyan also admitted that he was discharged from the so-called army of the so-called republic, but received his pension from the Republic of Armenia, where he is registered as a citizen. The accused also admitted that servicemen of the 7th Defense Line of Aghdara District, of which he was commander, had planted mines in the direction of the village of Gulustan in Goranboy district. He said: If I am not mistaken, they were PMN-1 mines. He also stated that the self-proclaimed republic, which was established in the previously occupied territories of Azerbaijan, did not have long-range ballistic missiles. David Manukyan claimed that he was unaware of the rocket fire opened into Azerbaijani territories far from the frontline during the 44-day war in 2020, adding that he had learned about those events later. He also answered questions about military exercises held in the previously occupied territories of Azerbaijan. The accused admitted that the instructions and plans for conducting military exercises in Karabakh had been coming from the staff of the Armenian armed forces. While answering questions from public prosecutor Tarana Mammadova, the accused also spoke about his relationship with Ruben Vardanyan, a person currently in prison in Azerbaijan facing charges of committing particularly serious crimes. He said that Ruben Vardanyan had been detained on September 27, 2023, while trying to leave Azerbaijan in his car. There were five of us, we were chatting, Vardanyan was there too. I asked him what he was going to do. He shrugged his shoulders. He asked if there was room in his car. I said that a female neighbor also wanted to come with us. I called my wife and asked if it was certain that the neighbor was coming. She said that she wasnt because her son had found a car. I told Ruben Vardanyan that there was room in the car. Then we were detained at the Lachin border checkpoint, he added. Then the hearings focused on the examination of documents on the criminal case. The next hearing is scheduled for April 7. The proceedings will be continued with questions to be asked of the accused. A total of 15 Armenian nationals are being charged with numerous crimes involving the direct leadership and participation of the Armenian state, its state bodies, military forces, and illegal armed formations, verbal and written instructions, orders and assignments, provision of material and technical support, central governance, as well as the exercise of rigorous control, with the aim of committing military aggression and acts of terror against the Republic of Azerbaijan in the territory of Azerbaijan in violation of domestic and international law. These crimes involve Robert Sedraki Kocharyan, Serzh Azati Sargsyan, Vazgen Mikaeli Manukyan, Vazgen Zaveni Sargsyan, Samvel Andraniki Babayan, Vitali Mikaeli Balasanyan, Zori Hayki Balayan, Seyran Mushegi Ohanyan, Arshavir Surenovich Garamyan, Monte Charles Melkonyan, and others, including criminal acts committed during the course of the war of aggression waged by the aforementioned criminal group. The said persons - Arayik Vladimiri Harutyunyan, Arkadi Arshaviri Ghukasyan, Bako Sahaki Sahakyan, Davit Rubeni Ishkhanyan, David Azatini Manukyan, Davit Klimi Babayan, Levon Henrikovich Mnatsakanyan, Vasili Ivani Beglaryan, Erik Roberti Ghazaryan, Davit Nelsoni Allahverdiyan, Gurgen Homeri Stepanyan, Levon Romiki Balayan, Madat Arakelovich Babayan, Garik Grigori Martirosyan, and Melikset Vladimiri Pashayan - are being charged under Articles 100 (planning, preparing, initiating and waging a war of aggression), 102 (attacking persons or organizations enjoying international protection), 103 (genocide), 105 (extermination of the population), 106 (enslaving), 107 (deportation or forced displacement of the population), 109 (persecution), 110 (enforced disappearance of people), 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law), 113 (torture), 114 (mercenary service), 115 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare), 116 (violation of international humanitarian law during armed conflict), 118 (military robbery), 120 (intentional murder), 192 (illegal entrepreneurship), 214 (terrorism), 214-1 (financing terrorism), 218 (creation of a criminal association (organization)), 228 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation and possession of weapons, their components, ammunition, explosives and devices), 270-1 (acts threatening aviation security), 277 (assassination of a state official or public figure), 278 (forcible seizure and retention of power, forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state), 279 (creation of armed formations and groups not provided for by law), and other articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Honda aims to create regenerative fuel cell system to support life in space and on Earth Honda will test its water electrolysis system on the International Space Station New Space Development Division at American Honda seeks to promote technology development in the U.S. and enhance collaboration with the U.S. space industry TORRANCE, Calif., April 4, 2025 -- Honda R&D Co., Ltd. ("Honda") today announced plans to test its high-differential pressure water electrolysis system at the International Space Station (ISS) in collaboration with leading space and technology companies Sierra Space and Tec-Masters. The project is part of Honda's vision for a regenerative fuel cell system that could provide advanced energy storage capable of supporting human life on the lunar surface. Watch a video about the Honda regenerative fuel cell system at https://honda.us/SpaceDevelopment. Regenerative Fuel Cell System for Outer Space Honda is leveraging decades of hydrogen fuel cell technology expertise to develop a regenerative fuel cell system, known as a circulative renewable energy system, that will continuously produce oxygen, hydrogen, and electricity. Honda envisions the circulative renewable energy system to be part of the infrastructure for humanity's sustained habitation on the Moon utilizing the available resources of sunlight and water. By enhancing the performance of the circulative renewable energy system, improvements can be made to long-life regenerative fuel cells that can be used as a scalable, clean, and renewable energy source both in space and on Earth. During the Lunar Day, the system will use electricity generated by the sun to power the process. Honda's high-differential pressure water electrolysis system will then produce hydrogen and oxygen from water. During the Lunar Night, when the Moon is not receiving sunlight, some of the oxygen will be used for astronauts to breathe. The Honda fuel cell system will use the remaining oxygen, along with the hydrogen produced during the Lunar Day, to generate electricity. After the fuel cells generate electricity, the only byproduct is water, which is recycled back into the water electrolysis system to create a closed-loop energy cycle. This process is similar to how a home solar system operates on Earth, where daytime solar electricity is harnessed, and excess energy is stored in home energy batteries to provide power throughout the night. International Space Station Testing Honda has developed an advanced water electrolysis system designed to support long-term operations on the Moon by prioritizing efficiency and reliability. The system's lightweight and compact design addresses the critical need to reduce transportation costs in lunar development. Additionally, since it doesn't use mechanical compression, maintenance needs are reduced, enhancing reliability for extended missions. By enabling high-pressure gas storage in smaller containers, the system also reduces the need to transport and manage large numbers of tanks. Honda will test the core part of its high-differential pressure water electrolysis system to verify the efficiency and reliability of the system in the microgravity environment of the ISS. For the ISS testing, Honda is collaborating with Sierra Space, a leading commercial space company at the forefront of innovation and the commercialization of space, and Tec-Masters, a leading provider of innovative scientific and technological solutions. Sierra Space will be the primary space mission integrator, working with NASA to transport materials on Sierra Space's Dream Chaser spaceplane, the world's only commercial spaceplane. Tec-Masters will be the ISS technology expert. New U.S. Honda Space Development Division In late 2024, Honda established the Space Development Division at American Honda to promote technology development in the U.S. and enhance collaboration with the U.S. space industry. The U.S. and Japan teams work closely to leverage Honda core technologies and apply them to the expansion of human activities and development on the Lunar surface. These space development initiatives demonstrate the commitment by Honda to fostering a sustainable future through pioneering technology and collaboration. Honda in America Honda started operations in the United States with American Honda Motor Co., Inc. in 1959. Today, Honda employs over 30,000 associates in America engaged in the development, manufacturing, sales and service support of Honda and Acura automobiles, Honda power equipment, Honda powersports and marine products, and the HondaJet advanced light jet. Based on its longstanding commitment to build products close to the customer, Honda operates 12 major U.S. manufacturing facilities, working with 620 U.S. suppliers to produce a diverse range of Honda products using domestic and globally sourced parts. Honda has built automobiles in America for over 40 years, and in 2024, nearly 64% of all Honda and Acura automobiles sold in the U.S. were produced in America. Honda also conducts research and development activities at 23 facilities in America where we fully design, develop and engineer many of the products the company manufactures in America. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. As part of her working visit to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Sahiba Gafarova, Speaker of Azerbaijans Milli Majlis, met Friday with Martin Chungong, Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the press service of Milli Majlis says, Trend reports. The discussions focused on the cooperation between the Azerbaijani parliament and IPU. They described the IPU as an effective platform for international cooperation. Speaker Sahiba Gafarova underscored that the Milli Majlis, collaborating with international parliamentary organizations bilaterally as well as in multilateral formats, places great importance on enhancing its ties with the IPU. The officials noted that successful joint implementation of several events provides opportunities for furthering bilateral partnership. They praised Azerbaijans active and high-level interaction with the IPU, expressing satisfaction with the fact that members of the Milli Majlis are present in the governing bodies of the Organization. Additionally, the meeting saw discussions on the current regional situation and the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Noting that the talks regarding the text of the peace agreement had been completed, Speaker Sahiba Gafarova said that as the next step Armenia must amend its Constitution and remove the provision, containing the territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Moreover, the Minsk Group, which has lost its relevance, must be dissolved now that Azerbaijan has liberated its territories. According to Gafarova, if Armenia wants to sign the peace treaty, it must accept these two legitimate conditions put forward by Azerbaijan. The meeting also deliberated on the collaboration between the IPU and the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement. Martin Chungong lauded the activity of the NAM Parliamentary Network, underscoring the importance of the collaboration between the Network and the IPU. They also exchanged views on the role of parliamentary diplomacy in the system of international relations and its contribution to addressing a range of issues, as well as matters of mutual concern. 2 killed in lightning strike Manisha Pushpatode Pramod Nagpure Tumsar Correspondent : A farmer and a woman were killed in lightning strike at Pathri in Tumsar taluka on Thursday around 12 noon. Another person was also injured in the incident. It started raining along with thunders. Pramod Maniram Nagpure (42), Manisha Bharat Pushpatode (32) and Asaram Pushpatode (55), all residents of Pathri, were returning home from the sugarcane field situated on the banks of the Bawanthadi river at the time. They took shelter under a mango tree but a lightning struck the tree. Nagpure and Manisha Pushpatode were killed on the spot while Manishas father-in-law Asaram Pushpatode received burns. He was admitted to a Primary Health Centre and is said to be out of danger. Authorities advised people to not take shelter below a tree or stand under tin shade but the three made the same mistake and two had to face death. A pragmatic approach to Naxal dialogue By E V Murli : The State Government has once again reiterated its openness to dialogue with Naxalites, but with a crucial caveat, talks must be unconditional and within the framework of the Indian Constitution. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharmas recent statement underlines a clear stance: the path to peace is open, but not at the cost of law, order, and national integrity. Sharmas emphasis on a structured and transparent process for negotiations is noteworthy. He has rightly pointed out that if Maoists genuinely wish to return to the mainstream, they must publicly identify their representatives and outline their expectations. By urging them to form a committee for dialogue, the government is placing the onus of sincerity and accountability on the Naxal leadership. The key takeaway from Sharmas address is the governments unwavering position against violence. While peace talks are a welcome prospect, they cannot coexist with bloodshed and insurgency. The insistence that Naxals must surrender and lay down arms before meaningful discussions can take place is a necessary condition. Any form of negotiation that tolerates or legitimizes parallel governance structures would only embolden extremism, rather than curb it. It is also significant that the Deputy Chief Minister drew a line against radical ideologies, cautioning that any attempt to steer the conversation outside constitutional parameters is unacceptable. This sets a crucial precedent, any dialogue must not only be in good faith but also rooted in democratic principles. The governments comprehensive rehabilitation policy for surrendered Naxalites is another praiseworthy step. Security, employment, and reintegration into mainstream society are essential incentives for those willing to abandon the path of violence. This policy should be actively promoted in affected areas, with awareness campaigns ensuring that potential surrenders understand the benefits of reintegration. The recent developments in Bastar, where the national flag was hoisted in 40 villages previously under Naxal control, are an encouraging sign of progress. Symbolically, this represents the restoration of democratic authority in regions long plagued by insurgency. However, for these gains to be sustained, continued efforts in infrastructure development, employment generation, and education will be critical. Ultimately, the governments approach to both Naxal dialogue and administrative reforms indicates a commitment to law, order, and governance rooted in constitutional values. The challenge now is implementation, ensuring that policies translate into tangible change on the ground. As always, the success of these measures will depend on political will, administrative efficiency, and, most importantly, the participation of the people in shaping a peaceful and progressive Chhattisgarh. All-India Muslim Jamaat welcomes passage of Waqf Bill in LS BAREILLY : THE National President of AllIndia Muslim Jamaat, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, on Thursdaywelcomedthepassage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha, expressing hope that it will bring significant economic relief to the underprivileged Muslims. I extend my gratitude to all theLokSabhamemberswhovoted in favour of the Bill, and congratulate the Government of India for taking this commendable step, Razvi said. He also said the proposed amendments would curb the alleged irregularitiesinWaqfproperties,which, according to him, were previously being misused by vested interests in collusion with land mafias. The original intent of Waqf was to support the poor, weak, and the orphans.Butitsrevenues were instead being pocketed by a select few. Now, with this Bill, we hope to see positive changes and economic upliftment of the underprivilegedMuslims, Rizvi added. Expressing confidence that the Bill would be passed in theRajyaSabhaaswell,Razvisaid it marked a crucial step in addressing corruption and ensuring that Waqf resources serve their intended purpose. TheLokSabha earlyThursday passed the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after over 12 hours of debate, which saw the ruling NDA strongly defending the legislation as beneficial for minorities, while the Opposition describedit asanti Muslim.The Bill was passed with a 288-232 vote after all the amendments moved by the Opposition members were rejectedbyvoicevotes.According to theBill,Waqftribunals will be strengthened,astructuredselection process will be maintained, and a tenure will be fixed to ensure efficient dispute resolution. As per the Bill, while Waqf institutions mandatory contributiontoWaqfboardsisreduced from7percentto5percent,Waqf institutions earning over Rs 1 lakhwillundergoauditsbyStatesponsored auditors. Also, a centralised portal will automate Waqf property management, improving efficiency and transparency. The Bill proposes that practising Muslims (for at least five years) can dedicate their property to the Waqf, restoring pre2013 rules. It also stipulates that women must receive their inheritance beforetheWaqfdeclaration,with special provisions for widows, divorced women and orphans. Waqf Bill assault on Constitution, polarises society NEW DELHI, Apr 3 (PTI) CONGRESS Parliamentary PartychairpersonSoniaGandhi on Thursday termed the Waqf Bill as a brazen assault on the Constitution, saying itwaspart oftheBJPsstrategytokeepsociety in a State of permanent polarisation. She said the bill was bulldozed through in the Lower House. Addressing a meeting of the Congress Parliamentary Party in Samvidhan Sadan, she also said that the One Nation, One Election Bill is another subversion of the Constitution and the party would strongly oppose it Indian-American lawmakers call reciprocal tariffs reckless NEW YORK : INDIAN-AMERICAN members oftheUSCongressandthediaspora community criticised the reciprocal tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, calling them reckless and selfdestructive, urging leaders in bothcountries toengageindialogue to address these challenges. The lawmakers also said that Trumps tariffs will likely make Indian goods less competitive. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said Trumps blankettariffsareataxonworking families so that he can cut taxes for the wealthiest Americans. Krishnamoorthi, a Democratic lawmaker from Illinois,saidthetariffsisolatethe UnitedStatesontheglobalstage, alienate Americas allies, and empower its adversaries all while forcing Americas seniors andworkingfamiliestobearthe brunt of higher prices. Urging Americans to call on Trump to end his disastrous tariff policies before he sends the country into a recession, Krishnamoorthi said the tariffs do nothing to strengthen the American economy or national security. CongressmanRoKhannasaid in a video posted on his social media handle that the tariffs announcement isnt an April Fools joke. Trump is literally trying to destroy our economy with his Liberation Day tariffs slapped overnight, no strategy, no consultation, no congressional input. Congressman Dr Ami Bera said in a post on X Let me be clear: these tariffswillnotmake America wealthy again. These costswillbepassedontoYOU theAmericanconsumer.This is not a tax cut. This is a tax hike. Former advisor to President Joe Biden and Co-Chair for Economic Subcommittee for Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Commission Ajay Bhutoria told PTI that Trumps Liberation Day initiative imposes a 27% reciprocal tariff on Indias exports to the United States significantly impacting both nations and beyond. This sweeping policy will likelymakeIndiangoodssuch as textiles, and pharmaceuticalsless competitive, while tariffs on other major trading partners will drive up the cost ofautomobiles,groceries,medicalsupplies,andcountlessother products, hitting American consumers with an estimated $2,500 to $15,000 in annual expenses. LS confirms imposition of Presidents Rule in Manipur NEW DELHI : THE Lok Sabha early Thursday adopted a Statutory Resolution confirming the imposition of Presidents rule in Manipur with opposition supporting the decision but slamming the Centre for the situation in the state. Replying to a short debate, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the Government has taken all possible steps to bring back normalcy in the restive northeastern State. He said there has been no violence in Manipur in the last four months, adding that talks were on with both Meitei and Kuki communities for a peaceful solution. By and large the situation is peaceful. As long as people are in camps, I would not say the situation is satisfactory. The government is taking all possible steps to restore peace in Manipur, he said. The home minister said the ethnic violence in Manipur had started following an order of the States High Court. The day the order came, we sent the central forces by air. There was no delay on our part (in taking action), he said. He said, so far, 260 people have died in the violence that started in May 2023 and 80 per cent of them lost their lives within the first month. Shah said he did not want to compare the violence that had taken place during the tenure of the previous governments but wanted to tell the House about the clashes between the Naga and Kuki communities that took place in the 1990s over five years. Sporadic violence continued for a decade where 750 people lost their lives. There were KukiPaite clashes in 1997-98 when 352 people were killed. In the MeiteiPangal clashes in the 1990s, over 100 people died. Neither the then prime minister nor the then home minister visited Manipur, he said. The Home Minister said an impression has been given that violence erupted only during the BJP rule, which is not correct. Earlier, participating in the debate, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said his party supported the resolution but wanted the restoration of peace and stability in the state. End insurgency, restore peace and stability, promote dialogue with each other, promote inclusivity, he said. WAQF BILL gets Rajya Sabha NOD NEW DELHI : After 13+ hours of debate, RS clears Waqf (Amendment) Bill 128 MPs vote in favour, 95 oppose the Bill AFTER the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha also passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 following a debate that lasted more than 13 hours. The Rajya Sabha passed the Bill well past midnight, with Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar in chair, by a majority.Total 128 members voted in favour of the Bill and 95 voted against it. Of a total 236 members in Rajya Sabha, 223 voted at around 2.25 am on Thursday. After the conclusion of the Question Hour, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju initiated the Waqf (Amendment) Bill debate in the Rajya Sabha. He appealed to Congress and other parties to support the Bill. He reiterated that the Bill did not amount to interference in the religious beliefs of the Muslims. J P Nadda, Union Minister; Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal, Congress MPs; Dr Sudhanshu Trivedi, BJP MP, and several others participated in the debate. Sonia Gandhi, Congress MP, also was in the House during voting on the Bill. J P Nadda, who is also BJP National President, said that 5,970 Government properties including lakes were declared as Waqf properties over decades through misuse of the existing law. Sibal accused the BJP-led Government of raising the Muslim issue for political gains. Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition, alleged that the Bill was aimed at harassing the minorities. Dr Trivedi said that the Bill would positively impact the Muslims and that the Government was with the poor and honest Muslims. The debate in the Upper House also saw heated exchange between Amit Shah, Union Home Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister, on one side and Manoj Jha, RJD MP, on the other. George Kurian, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, said that the the people in Kerala village Munnabam celebrated the passage of the Bill in Lok Sabha a day earlier. Towards the end of the debate, Rijiju accused Congress party of being responsible for Muslims being poor. BJP is trying to correct this. Let me make it clear that no Muslim will be harmed because of the passage of the Bill, he said, while urging the support of all the Rajya Sabha MPs. The Upper House has total 236 MPs including 123 of the ruling NDA with 98 from BJP, four from Janata Dal (United), two from Telugu Desam Party, three from Nationalist Congress Party and one from 10 other alliance parties. Whereas, the Opposition Congress-led INDIA bloc has 88 MPs including 27 of Congress, 13 of Trinamool Congress, 10 each of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and Aam Aadmi Party, five of Rashtriya Janata Dal, four each of Samajwadi Party and CPI (Marxist), three of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha. Besides, 23 MPs are from parties that are neither with NDA nor INDIA bloc. Bharat Rashtra Samithi opposed the Bill. MDMK called the Bill anti-democratic and anti-minority. CPI wanted the Government to withdraw the Bill. BJP, JD (U), TDP, NCP, Shiv Sena (Shinde group) and other members of the NDA supported the Bill. Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which has seven MPs in Rajya Sabha, had not issued any party whip thereby allowing its MPs to vote as per their conscience. YSRCP led by Jagan Mohan Reddy also did not issue a whip for its Rajya Sabha MPs. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. A delegation led by the Vice-rector for international military and inter-university cooperation of Serbia's Belgrade University of Defense, Colonel Srdjan Ljubojevic, visited the National Defense University, Military Institute named after Heydar Aliyev, and Military Lyceum named after Jamshid Nakhchivanski, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense. During the meeting at National Defense University, Deputy Rector of the National Defense University for Science - Rector of the Military Scientific Research Institute Major General Arif Hasanov expressed satisfaction with seeing them in Azerbaijan. Major General Arif Hasanov noted that cooperation between Azerbaijan and Serbia in the field of military education is steadily ongoing and highlighted that these relations are reflected in the mutual exchange of experience. Then the delegation was presented with a briefing on the National Defense Universitys establishment history, educational system, goals and objectives. During the meeting, the sides also discussed the current state and prospects of the work carried out between the two countries in the field of military education. Following the meeting, the delegation from Serbia visited the Military History Museum of Azerbaijan. The guests were provided with information about the ancient military history of Azerbaijan, military traditions, and military exhibits reflecting various periods of our history. The next day, representatives of the Serbian University of Defense visited the National Defense Universitys Military Institute named after Heydar Aliyev and Military Lyceum named after Jamshid Nakhchivanski. Here, the guests visited the Heydar Aliyev Museum and got acquainted with a photo corner showcasing the life and political activities of the Great Leader. Then, the guests were briefed on the history, the main areas of activity, and upcoming tasks of the Institute and Lyceum. Following the briefings, questions of mutual interest were answered. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The International Carpet Festival will be held in Baku from May 2nd to May 4th, 2025, in the historic Icherisheher (Inner City), Trend reports. Organized by the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve and Azerkhalcha OJSC, with support from the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO), the festival aims to promote Azerbaijani carpet weaving art globally, showcasing its rich heritage and future development prospects. The event will also provide an opportunity to learn from the skills and experiences of carpet artisans from around the world. The festival will open on May 2nd with the International Carpet Forum, which will bring together leading specialists, designers, manufacturers, and researchers from the carpet industry. The forum will feature plenary sessions, panel discussions, B2B meetings, and special sessions for young scholars. The festival will continue on May 3-4 through the historic streets of Icherisheher. Ancient caravanserais and squares will host carpet exhibitions, master classes, interactive theater performances, and musical events. Representatives from various countries will present their carpet weaving traditions, and national pavilions will showcase the distinctiveness of their cultures. The festival coincides with the 25th anniversary of the inclusion of Icherisheher in the UNESCO World Heritage List and the 15th anniversary of the inclusion of Azerbaijan's traditional carpet weaving art in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Throughout the festival, exclusive exhibitions, master classes, interactive events, concert programs, and educational activities for children will be organized, all dedicated to the art of carpet weaving. For more information about the festival and to participate, visit the official website at bakucarpetfest.az. For inquiries, you can contact [email protected]. We invite everyone to Icherisheher to celebrate and preserve the rich tradition of carpet artistry, sharing its beauty with the world! Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. In a recent article titled "The Importance of the US-Israel-Azerbaijan Strategic Partnership" published in Israeli outlet Israel National News, Rachel Avraham, a prominent political analyst, journalist, and founder and CEO of the Don Gracia Center for Diplomacy, criticized the growing trend of external powers attempting to interfere in Azerbaijans independent decision-making, Trend reports. "Azerbaijan is a country that acts in all directions, never hesitating or being pressured to annoy any regional power, and sticks to its course of managing its affairs without external interference. Thus, we can witness Azerbaijan hosting peace talks with Armenia under the mediation of the European Union while simultaneously operating within the Eurasian Economic Union under Russia's patronage," the article said. The article analyzes the visit of Steve Witkoff, the US special representative for the Middle East, to Baku and underscores that Azerbaijans constructive relationship with the West and Israel is not mere rhetoric. Azerbaijan, which has long recognized the State of Israel and opened an embassy there, has significantly contributed to Europe's energy security by establishing extensive energy trade relations with the European Union. With this in mind, it becomes clear that Azerbaijan holds an ideal position as a regional mediator. The country maintains normal relations with its neighbors, cooperates constructively with the West, and upholds strong ties with Israel. Consequently, it is entirely logical that Azerbaijan would serve as a mediator between Russia and the US, as well as Iran and Israel. In this context, the US strategy of officially recognizing Azerbaijan as a regional mediator could help pave the way for a more stable future in the region. The author suggests that Witkoffs visit likely aims to enhance Azerbaijans ability to navigate the complex web of interests in the region while identifying new areas of influence where it can contribute to regional peace. The visit demonstrates that the US is now working through alliances founded on clear, mutual interests, ready to offer each side what it seeks in exchange for peace and committed cooperation. We can only hope that the USs practical approach, coupled with Azerbaijans adeptness in navigating conflicting yet parallel channels, will bring peace and security to the region, the Israeli journalist concludes. For a detailed read, the full article can be accessed here: https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/406104. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. International law expert Asaf Asgar, who resides in Germany, sent a letter to ARD and ZDF television channels in protest against the documentary film prepared by Germany's DW Documentary internet channel, which was deemed anti-Azerbaijani, the State Committee on Work with Diaspora told Trend. Asgar said that the program titled "Armenias Struggle for Land and Identity in the Caucasus" presented a one-sided approach, using numerous disinformation sources citing Armenia and its allies. The expert pointed out that such approaches could lead to the reactivation of separatists at a time when an agreement on a peace treaty between the two countries was being negotiated. Additionally, he questioned why there was no mention of the occupation of Azerbaijani lands, the Khojaly genocide, the more than one million Azerbaijanis displaced as a result of the Karabakh war, and the hundreds of billions in damages inflicted on the country. He emphasized that Azerbaijan's liberation of its internationally recognized lands from Armenian occupation was based on principles of justice and fairness and unequivocally said that the occupying party was Armenia. At the end of the letter, he demanded an apology for the broadcast of the film, which exhibited an anti-Azerbaijan stance. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. A new Sunday school has opened in Bolnisi, located in the Kvemo Kartli region of Georgia, with support from the State Committee for Work with Diaspora of Azerbaijan, as part of its ongoing projects, the State Committee told Trend. The school, operated by the "Union of Education and Youth," aims to serve the Azerbaijani community in the region and will cater to Azerbaijani residents of the area. Chingizkhan Yagubov, an Azerbaijani language teacher at the school, emphasized that Kvemo Bolnisi has gifted Azerbaijani science and culture with numerous outstanding figures. He expressed that the school is committed to continuing this valuable tradition. In recent years, Sunday schools have been launched in various regions of Georgia, as noted by the State Committee in its statement. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Subscription to paid content Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card. Yes Significant efforts are being made No Much more needs to be done Some progress But there are still critical gaps Vote View Results BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Azerbaijan and ACWA Power company discussed seawater desalination project, the country's Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov wrote on X , Trend reports. "We were pleased to meet with Marco Arcelli, the Chief Executive Officer of ACWA Power. We exchanged views on our cooperation agenda, including the seawater desalination project in Azerbaijan, shared expertise in sustainable energy solutions, and explored potential joint initiatives," the publication reads. Flash The Chinese and U.S. militaries held the 2025 China-U.S. Military Maritime Consultative Agreement working group meeting in Shanghai on Wednesday and Thursday, the Chinese navy said on Thursday. On the basis of equality and respect, the two sides conducted candid and constructive exchanges on the security situation in maritime and aerial domains since the last working group meeting, said the Chinese navy on its official social media account. They evaluated the execution of the Rules of Behavior for Safety of Air and Maritime Encounters and discussed measures to improve maritime military security between the two countries. The Chinese side emphasized that the safety of naval vessels and aircraft is inseparable from national security. It pointed out that U.S. military ships and aircraft have been conducting reconnaissance, surveys, and high-intensity drills in the sea and air spaces around China, which are prone to cause misunderstandings and miscalculations and jeopardize China's sovereignty and military security. The Chinese military will continue to respond to all dangerous provocative actions in accordance with laws and regulations, resolutely safeguarding national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, according to the Chinese navy. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. In 2025, Uzbekistan will host a joint investment forum with the European Union, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, as she addressed the EU-Central Asia summit in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Trend reports. "Im pleased to announce that a new investment forum will be held in Uzbekistan in 2025. It will attract private funding for the Middle Corridor and help us assess the progress made," she said. Von der Leyen highlighted Central Asias critical role in global trade, calling it the "heart of Eurasia." "Last year, we allocated 10 billion euros to develop the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. This will cut travel time for land transport between Europe and Central Asia in half, down to 15 days. Additionally, the corridor will create new business opportunities and enhance trade connections, both between Europe and Central Asia and within the region," she added. Setting pre-conditions for Delhi talk Need to play the card right | The obvious but unstated would not have blown over the consciousness of Delhi. Even as representatives of the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) and Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) have proceeded to Delhi for the anticipated talks with Kuki-Zo CSOs under the initiative of the Union Home Ministry, the Meitei side has not set down any pre-conditions unlike the Kuki-Zo CSOs. In fact the scheduled April 5 talk at Delhi registered in the consciousness of the public at Imphal only after the Kuki-CSOs spelt out the pre-conditions for cessation of hostilities on April 1 and this is something which could and should not have missed the attention of the Home Ministry. This point should be understood in the backdrop of the fact that one side in the talk has not hesitated in laying down pre-conditions for the talk to fructify or even take its first step. Laying down pre-conditions from a position of strength or is it something else, is then the natural question that follows. Apart from this it is also more than clear that the Kuki-Zo side has already rolled up its sleeves ahead of the scheduled meeting and this is where perhaps Manipur or those representing the interest of the State, ought to have outlined the points that ought to be laid down during the talk. First obviously should be the call to stop all cross border incursion, a point which has been made more than clear by all neutral observers, starting from the Nagas and other political parties, notably the Congress, if one goes by what one of its leaders, Shashi Tharoor had to say on the floor of the Lok Sabha on April 3 is anything to go by. Manipur facing severe challenges from illegal immigrants is the one line statement delivered by the MP from Thiruvanan-thapuram and this is a point which the Centre had already acknowledged in its decision to fence the Indo-Myanmar border as well as do away with the Free Movement Regime. It is from this strength that the representatives of AMUCO and FOCS should put the points of Manipur across during the scheduled meeting at Delhi on April 5. A look back at the recent and not so recent past and one can also recall the line maintained by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar when they pointed fingers at the rampant incursion from across the border as one of the primary reasons for the ongoing clash. The records are there and it is from these records that the representatives of AMUCO and FOCS should draw their strength from and put forward suggestions that will stengthen the case of Manipur during the talk. And when one talks about the incursion from across the border, it would be prudent to remind Delhi that a prominent group of the SoO pact is headed by a personality who is or was a Myanmar citizen. These are points which should be put across without hesitation and with conviction. For the record it would also help the case of Manipur if the representatives from the two CSOs care to refer to a write up submitted by a Kuki gentleman by the name of Paolienlal Haokip in a publication of the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies under the heading Suffering in Oblivion: Burmese refugees in the North East Region of India. This was back on May 23, 2002 and in the said article Mr Haokip detailed how in 1967 a large number of Kukis were driven out of Myanmar during the Burmanization programme of Ne Win in 1967. In the Burmanization programme launched under Operation Khadawmi at least 20,000 Kukis made their way into Manipur while others also entered the Indian States of Nagaland and Mizoram. Then again in 1988 a large number of immigrants entered Manipur and the other North Eastern States during the democratic uprising. This is what was written by a Kuki gentleman and the interesting part is no one knows how many of the more than 20,000 Kukis who entered Manipur returned to Myanmar or merged with the local population and were later included in the ST list of the Constitution of India. Many others too have crossed into Manipur after the military coup in 2021 constraining MLA from Phungyar Assembly Constituency Leishiyo Keishing to inform the State Assembly that the refugees from across the border have started to outnumber the local population. These are facts and it is on the basis of these facts that the call to update the NRC must be presented before the Union Home Ministry during the talk on April 5. The stand of Manipur should be spelt out clearly. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 4. Kazakhstans Prime Minister, Olzhas Bektenov, met with Dmitry Grigorenko, Deputy Chairman of the Government and Head of the Government Staff of the Russian Federation, and discussed several topics related to digitalization, artificial intelligence, investment, and innovative development, Trend reports. The discussions focused on the progress of agreements reached at the highest level. Due to ongoing communication between the Presidents of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and Russia, Vladimir Putin, the pace of bilateral cooperation remains strong. The participants of the meeting highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence and emphasized that digitalization partnerships are a key component of bilateral relations. Collaborative efforts to implement new technologies will act as a catalyst for innovation, foster support for IT entrepreneurs and startup initiatives, enhance the training of skilled professionals, and strengthen information security measures. Additionally, new opportunities for IT specialists will arise with the opening of the Alem.ai International Artificial Intelligence Center in Astana later this year, stated the press service of the Prime Minister. In the course of his visit, Dmitry Grigorenko will also explore the activities of leading IT hubs in Kazakhstan, including the Astana Hub technology park, which currently hosts over 1,600 IT companies, with 425 of them having foreign participation, as well as the NU Technopark. The bilateral trade between Kazakhstan and Russia grew by almost three percent to $27.8 billion by the end of 2024 and has significant potential for further trade, economic, and investment cooperation. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) are trying to get the entire education system in the state collapsed. She said this while reacting to the verdict by the Supreme Court to uphold a previous order by the Calcutta High Court last year cancelling all the appointments in the teaching and non-teaching categories made by the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) for 2016. Advertisement She, however, did not make it clear whether the state government would make a review petition to the Supreme Court on the recent order. Advertisement She targeted CPI-M Rajya Sabha member and senior advocate of Calcutta High Court Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya, who had been involved in the entire legal process in the matter since the beginning and indirectly targeted for Calcutta High Court judge and the current BJP Lok Sabha member Abhijit Ganguly, who was first one to order a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the multi-crore cash for school job case. However, the Chief Minister refrained from taking the name of Ganguly even once. At the same time, she also targetted the state BJP president and the Union Minister of State, Sukanta Majumdar. A former judge of Calcutta High Court for the first time spoke about this cancellation of job. He is a BJP Lok Sabha member now. I do not know his name or surname. So everyone understands what has happened, the Chief Minister said while interacting with the reporters on Thursday afternoon. She also targeted Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya, who had been representing the deprived candidates since the beginning at various courts, including the Supreme Court in the matter. He filed the case for the first time as a result of which so many jobs were cancelled. He is the worlds most high-profile lawyer. He should get the Nobel Prize. I am thinking of recommending his name, the Chief Minister said. She also lambasted Sukanta Majumdar for his comments earlier in the day holding the Chief Minister as solely responsible for the plight of many candidates on grounds that there was no scope for segregation of genuine candidates from ineligible ones getting jobs paying money. Why did he target me? What sort of illegal work have I done? When the first case in the matter was filed, then it should not have been considered who is eligible and who is not. Why is Bengal always targeted? the Chief Minister questioned. Speaking on the occasion, she expressed apprehension that if so many teachers lose jobs, then the academic system in the schools they are teaching at might collapse. That is why I am saying that there is a conspiracy to destabilise the education system in the state, the Chief Minister said. On the question of the review petition possibility, she said that the matter is being reviewed by the legal team and nothing can be said about it now. The meeting convened by labour minister Moloy Ghatak to resolve the bonus issue for tea workers in the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) area ended inconclusively. Todays meeting was a continuation of discussions held here on 16 November last year on the same issue. Mr Ghatak interacted with trade union leaders, particularly those representing tea plantations in the Hills, on various matters. However, the bonus issue remained unresolved due to the absence of tea planters. Since no planters were present, no discussion on the bonus could take place. The state government had earlier issued an advisory recommending a 16 per cent bonus pay-out, while workers and trade unions have been demanding an additional 4 per cent. Advertisement Sachin Khati, a trade union leader who attended the meeting, expressed frustration over the situation. He said: On 16 November, the planters who attended the meeting assured us that they would soon communicate their stance on the bonus. However, the labour department did not summon them for todays meeting. We questioned why the department failed to ensure their presence. In protest, we informed the minister that we will not participate in the next bonus meeting for 2024-25 unless the bonus issue for 2023-24 is resolved first. Advertisement The Calcutta High Court on Thursday sought the Central governments stance on the deployment of central armed police forces (CAPF) personnel at Mothabari in Malda district of West Bengal which has witnessed communal tensions in the recent past over alleged attacks on the members of a particular community. Earlier, on March 28, the Calcutta High Court sought an action taken report from the state administration and also directed the Malda district magistrate and the district police superintendent to file reports in the court specifying what led to the tension at Mothabari. Advertisement On Thursday, the state government submitted the action taken report in the matter to the court. On Thursday, the Union government counsel informed that the Centre had no problem in the deployment of CAPF personnel at Mothabari to keep the situation under control. Advertisement Thereafter, the Calcutta High Court directed the Union government to submit an affidavit on the matter in court. Recently, BJP leader in West Bengal and Calcutta High Court counsel Kaustav Bagchi had filed a petition at the High Court seeking CAPF deployment at Mothabari acting on which the division bench had earlier directed the state government to submit the action taken report. Earlier, the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari too had written a letter to Governor C.V. Ananda Bose requesting the latter to direct the state government to deploy CAPF personnel at Mothabari following the alleged large-scale attack on the Hindus there. The leader of the opposition has also accused the West Bengal government and the ruling Trinamool Congress of preparing the blueprint for Greater Bangladesh through appeasement politics. Adhikari has also claimed to the media persons that the miscreants at Mothabari went out of control, plundered, bashed, and vandalized in an unabated manner. Their targets were Hindus. That is why I feel that CAPF deployment is the only solution to control the situation, as the police have failed to contain the vandalism and hooliganism. The state police personnel were acting like helpless puppets: just pleading with the miscreants with folded hands. The miscreants took control of the main roads and freely vandalized several vehicles, he added. West Bengals ruling Trinamool Congress will conduct massive protest rallies and processions throughout the state on April 4 and April 5 against the price hike of 748 medicines, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced on Wednesday. On April 4 and April 5, our party workers will be on the streets on this issue. They will conduct protest rallies and processions in every block at the rural level and every ward at the urban level against its price hike. Unless we protest now, healthcare will be out of reach for common people, she told media persons. Advertisement The Chief Minister said that April 4 and April 5 had been chosen for the days of the protests since her party is not in favour of bringing out processions or rallies on this issue on April 6 on the occasion of Ram Navami. Advertisement She said that the protest rallies and processions will be conducted between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. on both days. The Union government is trying to introduce a healthcare system where only one per cent of the Indian population, who can afford spending crores of rupees, can afford treatment, she said. Banerjee noted that the Union government had imposed goods & services tax on the premium on medical insurance. I protested even then and wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she said. She also said that the partys Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members will also be vocal on this issue of price hikes of essential medicines on the floor of the Parliament. On the occasion, the Chief Minister also highlighted the initiatives undertaken by her government to ensure free medical facilities for the common people. Health is wealth. So our government is providing free Swastha Sathi (the states free medical insurance scheme). Every year, there is a huge payout from the state exchequer to provide free treatment and free medicines to common people, she said. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday praised Delhi University, stating that it has produced many great leaders, artists, social reformers, and thinkers, not only for the country, but the world. She said DU is an example of quality education and the need is to further enhance its reputation globally. Advertisement Gupta said that no work related to the university will be stalled due to the government. Advertisement CM who paid a visit to DU on Friday, was honored at the university convention centre. On the occasion, she spoke about the universitys illustrious legacy, its present achievements, and the governments vision for the future. She emphasized that the government aims to elevate Delhis education system to a level where every student, from KG to College, receives quality education. CM also expressed, Today is my first visit to Delhi University after becoming Chief Minister, and it is a moment of immense pride and joy for me. The very university that has earned global recognition is where I too pursued my education. She further said, Returning here fills me with a deep sense of belonging and pride. I am proud to be an alumna of Delhi University. Gupta expressed her admiration for the historic campus, and reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening the global identity of Delhi University. Highlighting the universitys role in advancing womens education, the CM acknowledged the establishment of Delhi University and its significant historical contribution. She highlighted that since the 1930s, DU has promoted womens education and inclusion. Gupta stressed that even during the difficult times of partition, the university ensured that affected female students remained connected to mainstream education through Camp College. CM Rekha Gupta also announced that under the Viksit Delhi Budget 2025, the Delhi Government has allocated Rs 19,291 crore this year for the development and strengthening of the education sector which is 19.29 per cent of total budget. She affirmed the governments clear commitment to building an education system where every student, whether in nursery or pursuing postgraduate studies, has access to quality education. Tata Steel received an income tax order on Friday which increases its FY 2019 taxable amount, pertaining to the merger of Bhushan Steel with the Tata Group company back in 2019. Bhushan Steel has been renamed as Tata Steel BSL Limited, the company stated. In May 2018, Tata Steel had announced the acquisition of Bhushan Steel, through its wholly owned subsidiary Bamnipal Steel. After this acquisition, a debt of Rs 25,185.51 crore was waived off in favour of Tata Steel BSL Limited (TSBSL). From November 2021, TSBSL and Bamnipal Steel merged with Tata Steel. Advertisement On March 13, 2025, Tata Steel received a show-cause notice seeking further documents on the abovementioned waiver amount, Tata Steel said in an exchange filing. The details were sought for the purpose of reassessment of taxable income for AY 2019-20. Tata Steel stated that the income tax return of Bhushan Steel for FY 2018-19 was accepted by the income tax department in June 2020 without any demand pertaining to the waiver of loan. Advertisement A few days later, on March 24, the Tata company filed a writ petition with Bombay High Court questioning the authority of the Assessing Officer in conducting the reassessment of taxable income for AY 2019-20. Further, Tata Steel on March 31 received an order, reassessing the taxable income for FY 2018-19 (AY 2019-20) and increasing the taxable amount for FY 2018-19 by the amount of debt waived (Rs 25,15 crore). The order further provides that the company is allowed to file necessary documents with the tax authorities for computation of final tax liability in this regard, it added. As things stand, Tata Steel has filed a writ petition before the Bombay High Court challenging technical infirmities in conducting the Income Tax reassessment proceedings. In addition to its petition, Tata Steel will also seek appropriate legal remedies contesting the matter on merit. The company has examined the matter and believes that it has a strong case on merits apart from the technical infirmities in the Order for which the company is already before the Bombay High Court . The company believes that waiver of debt cannot be treated as taxable income in the hands of TSBSL at the relevant point in time, the company stated. In a fresh attack on the BJP led government in the national capital, Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav on Friday alleged that it denied education to the children of poor and middle-class families by allowing the private schools to hike the fees. He claimed that the private schools have hiked the fee by 20 to 80 per cent despite facing a severe criticism from the parents. Advertisement Furthermore, Yadav claimed that when Congress was in power, it did not allow private schools to hike fees arbitrarily, but within one month of coming to power, the BJP government, headed by Rekha Gupta, allowed the schools to increase tuition fees at their will. Advertisement Good education is the right of every child, and every parent dreams of providing good education to their children. But if reputed private schools are allowed to hike fees at will, only the rich and the powerful would be able to send their children to reputed schools, he claimed. Congress had made government schools sought-after, leading to a flux of students, but like Kejriwal, the Rekha government too seems to be anti-poor and anti-middle class as it joined the hands with private schools to hike tuition fees to make it beyond the reach of the poor and the middle-class parents, the former MLA from Badli lamented. TuranBank OJSC, a leading bank in Azerbaijan committed to supporting the real sector of the economy, continues to strengthen its collaboration with international financial institutions. In this regard, the Bank has signed a loan agreement with the EMF Microfinance Fund, which is managed by Enabling Qapital, a FINMA regulated leading Swiss Impact Asset Manager. The agreement, worth 4 million US dollars, is set for a 3-year term and aims to further expand financing for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Azerbaijan. This agreement is a significant indicator of the confidence that international financial institutions have in our Bank. We extend our gratitude to our partners for their continued cooperation, and we are confident that these funds will enhance our ability to provide financial support to the real sector, particularly small and medium enterprisesan area that remains a priority for us. Ultimately, this will contribute to the broader development of Azerbaijans economy, -said Orkhan Garayev, Chairman of the Management Board of TuranBank. The EMF Microfinance Fund, established in 2008, focuses on promoting financial accessibility in developing countries. The fund supports sustainable, responsible, and profitable small and medium-sized enterprises, with an emphasis on fostering long-term economic growth. It is worth noting that since its foundation 33 years ago, TuranBank, with 22 points of sale, has established a strong position in the financial sector, both in terms of the quality and quantity of its services. The bank has a successful track record in attracting international credit lines to finance small and medium-sized businesses and will remain committed to continuing its efforts in this direction. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta at a high-level meeting with the heads of all government departments on Friday reviewed the implementation of public welfare schemes, budgetary allocations, and infrastructure development. She reviewed the works on key sectors such as education, health, transport, and water supply, and directed all department heads to define their priorities and ensure that they are fulfilled within the stipulated timelines. Advertisement CM said, Merely announcing schemes is not enough, effective implementation and delivery of benefits to the public are equally essential. Advertisement The meeting covered a range of critical issues, including education, healthcare, transportation, medicine availability, water problems, water-logging, pollution, infrastructure development, governance, and grievance redressal. She directed all the departments to finalize their action plans for the next 100 days, 6 months, and 9 months. Gupta emphasized the need for a systematic approach, directing officers to prepare working charts and submit regular progress reports to the Chief Secretary. The departments were also instructed to make the public grievance redressal system more responsive and effective. She stated that the officers who perform their duties diligently would receive the full support of the government but those who exhibit negligence would face action. The main objective of the meeting was to reinforce transparency, accountability, and a result-oriented administrative system. Providing further insights, Gupta highlighted Delhi governments commitment to providing improved public services. She stressed that the public grievance redressal mechanism must be more effective and empathetic. The departments were directed to take swift action on critical civic issues, including water supply shortages, drainage and waterlogging, pollution control, the quality of healthcare services, and the availability of essential medicines. She specifically directed officials to ensure that there is no shortage of diagnostic equipment or medicines in hospitals. Reiterating her governments zero tolerance policy on corruption, the CM made it clear that any compromise on transparency or integrity would not be tolerated. The Delhi unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to celebrate the partys foundation day on April 6 with a series of grand events across the city. The party has planned flag-hoisting and floral tribute ceremonies at all 14 organizational district offices, along with a central event at the state office. Advertisement Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva announced that on the occasion, tributes would be paid to all the distinguished individuals who have contributed to the partys journey in Delhis politics. Advertisement The celebrations will begin at 9 am at the state office where Mr. Sachdeva, along with BJP MPs and state office bearers, will hoist the partys flag, followed by a floral tribute ceremony and the distribution of sweets, he said. In the afternoon, senior BJP leaders and MPs will lead celebrations across different districts of Delhi. Renowned actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passed away on Friday at the age of 87 at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai on Friday He had been unwell for some time and was admitted to the hospital on February 21 after his condition worsened. Advertisement Condoling his demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a social media post, said that he was deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary actor and filmmaker. Advertisement The Prime Minister, in a post on X, wrote, Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. PM Modi further said that his works ignited a spirit of national pride. Manoj Jis works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti, the PM further said. PM Modi also shared pictures of the veteran actor when they had met years ago. The veteran actor received the Padma Shri in 1992 for his contributions to Bollywood. His legacy was further solidified when he was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. He was popularly known as Bharat Kumar for his patriotic films. He made a mark with classics like Shaheed, Hariyali Aur Raasta, Woh Kaun Thi, Himalaya Ki God Mein, Do Badan, Patthar Ke Sanam, Neel Kamal, and Kranti, Upkar, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan and several other movies which have been regarded as remarkable piece of cinema. Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Punjabs Amritsar, Manoj Kumar carved a niche for himself in Bollywood. Apart from Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Manoj Kumars contributions to Indian cinema earned him several prestigious accolades, including a National Film Award and seven Filmfare Awards in different categories. In a profession frequently criticized for its under-representation and narrow comprehension of Indias diversity, Chum Darang, an Arunachal Pradesh model, entrepreneur, and actor, is making her presence felt. With stints in high-profile films such as Badhaai Do (2022), Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), and gritty shows like Paatal Lok (2020), Darang is carving out a niche for herself and for voices from Indias Northeast in the sprawling, and often closed-off, realm of Hindi cinema. Advertisement Badhaai Do Chum Darang made a significant mark with her role in Harshavardhan Kulkarnis Badhaai Do, a film that blended humor with poignant social commentary. Set in a society grappling with the concept of same-sex relationships and the constraints of traditional marriage, the film starred Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar as a gay man and a lesbian woman who marry to appease societal expectations. Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chum Darang (@chum_darang) Darang portrayed Rimjhim, the quiet but unbreakable girlfriend of Pednekars Suman. Though the film focused on queer peoples difficulties in small-town India, Rimjhim existed as a subtle beacon of bravery a female going about her life and loving within a universe that hardly acknowledges her existence. Chums acting brought tenderness, dignity, and unobtrusive strength to the part, and her casting was a milestone not only for queer representation, but for Northeast Indian visibility in mainstream Bollywood. Gangubai Kathiawadi Soon after Badhaai Do, Darang appeared in Sanjay Leela Bhansalis lavish period drama Gangubai Kathiawadi, featuring Alia Bhatt in the lead. Although her role was short-lived, being seen in a Bhansali production was not without an aspect of meaning. While some might dismiss it as a blink-and-miss role, Darangs inclusion in a film that became one of 2022s most talked-about releases added another layer to her visibility. It was a sign of the doors she was quietly opening, both for herself and others from underrepresented communities. Paatal Lok Darang had come earlier to the digital fray with Amazon Primes Paatal Lok a dark, gripping crime thriller that boldly scrutinized class, caste, and power dynamics within India. In a show that was full of visceral performances and multi-layered characters, Darang had a small role to play, but her presence lent depth to the shows diverse casting and realistic world-building. The shows critical acclaim and popularity provided Darang with a platform that touched millions. More significantly, it provided her with the opportunity to be a part of a story that did not hesitate to address Indias social complexities something that is hardly ever given to Northeast Indian actors, who are usually relegated to two-dimensional, typecast roles. Chum Darangs career in Hindi cinema is only just beginning, but her influence is already evident. Her very presence, understated as it is, disrupts entrenched conventions about who gets to be visible on screen and how. Veteran actor Dharmendra was among the first to arrive at Mumbai residence of Manoj Kumar on Friday morning, his eyes welling with emotion as he bid a final goodbye to his dear friend and fellow legend. The bond between the two icons of Indian cinema stretched back decades. And, as the curtains fell on Kumars remarkable life at the age of 87, it was Dharmendras heartfelt tribute that echoed the grief of an entire industry. Advertisement We have so many memories We spent our early days in the industry together, Dharmendra said about Manoj Kumar, softly, holding back tears. Advertisement The two stars had shared the screen in classics like Mera Naam Joker, Shaadi, and Maidan-E-Jung. And, more importantly, they shared a friendship that transcended fame. Manoj Kumar, lovingly called Bharat Kumar for his unmatched portrayal of patriotism on screen, passed away at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He was battling liver cirrhosis and other health issues. Known for masterpieces like Upkaar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Shaheed, Kumars films were not just hits. They were cinematic odes to Indias soul. As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the country. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called his death a huge blow to Indian cinema. His films instilled patriotism and social values. The name Bharat Kumar wasnt just earned, it was lived, he said in a public statement. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mourned the loss, calling Manoj Kumar an icon of Indian cinema whose work still resonates deeply. President Droupadi Murmu, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and leaders from all political backgroundsincluding Rahul Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwalexpressed condolences. Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut saluted Kumars legacy. She stated, He raised the sentiment of patriotism among the countrymen through his incredible cinema. Kumars influence stretched beyond the silver screen. In recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992 and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. It was his ability to make every Indian feel seen and heard that made him truly iconic. His last rites will take place on Saturday, April 5, at Pawan Hans in Vile Parle, Mumbai. Fans, colleagues, and family are likely to gather in large numbers to pay their respects. The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court has refused to entertain the plea of Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi to interfere in the proceedings of a lower court over his remarks on Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. A single judge bench of Justice Subhash Vidyarthi said on Friday that Rahul Gandhi has an alternative remedy of criminal revision under Section 397/399 of the CrPC and can approach the sessions judge for relief. In view of this, the court disposed of his plea. Advertisement The Congress leader had challenged the December 2023 summoning order issued by the trial court. Advertisement The case filed by advocate Nripendra Pandey is pending before an Additional Chief Judicial Magistrates Court in Lucknow. The sessions court revived the complaint against him, which was initially dismissed in June 2023, after allowing the revision plea filed by Pandey, leading to Gandhis summoning. The defamation case is related to allegations that Rahul Gandhi, during a press conference in Maharashtra in 2022, stated that Savarkar was a servant of the British and received pension from them. The Lucknow court had imposed a fine of Rs 200 on Rahul Gandhi on March 5, 2025, for failing to appear in the defamation case. The court also directed him to be present on the next hearing on April 14, warning of strict legal consequences, including a non-bailable warrant, if he failed to comply. The Union Cabinet on Friday approved the Vibrant Villages Programme -II (VVP-II) as a Central Sector Scheme (100 per cent Centre funding), furthering its commitment for the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 for Safe, Secured & Vibrant land borders. The programme would help in the comprehensive development of the villages located in the blocks abutting international land borders (ILBs), other than the Northern border already covered under VVP-I. Advertisement With a total outlay of Rs 6,839 crore, the programme will be implemented in select strategic villages in the States/UTs of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, J&K (UT), Ladakh (UT), Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal till the FY 2028-29. Advertisement The objective of the programme is to create better living conditions and adequate livelihood opportunities to ensure prosperous and safe borders, control trans-border crime and assimilate the border population with the nation and inculcate them as eyes and ears of the border guarding forces, crucial for internal security. The programme will provide funds for infrastructure development within the village or a cluster of villages, value chain development (through cooperatives, SHGs, etc), border specific outreach activity, education infrastructure like SMART classes, development of tourism circuits and works/projects to create diverse and sustainable livelihood opportunities in the border areas. The interventions would be border-specific, state and village specific, based on Village Action Plans prepared in a collaborative approach. All-weather road connectivity for these villages shall be undertaken under the already approved PMGSY-IV under the MoRD. A High-Powered Committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary shall consider suitable relaxations in schematic guidelines for effective implementation of schemes in the border areas. The programme aims to achieve saturation in existing individual and household level welfare schemes in the identified villages under convergence as per scheme norms. The programme also aims to saturate all villages in such blocks in 4 thematic areas, namely all-weather road connectivity, telecom connectivity, television connectivity and electrification through convergence under existing scheme norms. The programme emphasises enhancing vibrancy in these villages by organising activities including fairs and festivals, awareness camps, celebration of National days, regular visits by Ministers, senior Government officers from Central and State/UT Government and night stays in such villages. This would boost the tourism potential and promote the local culture and heritage of these villages. Technology would be leveraged and information databases like PM Gati Shakti will be used for effective implementation of the project. VVP-II along with VVP-I is a transformative initiative to make the border villages self-reliant and vibrant. The Delhi unit of the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) is making extensive preparations to celebrate the partys 45th foundation day on April 6. A grand flag hoisting and floral tribute programme will be held at all 14 organisational district offices, along with the state office, to honour the partys legacy and contributions. Advertisement Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva announced that the celebrations will commence at 9 am at the state office, where he, along with BJP MPs and other senior leaders, will hoist the party flag and participate in a floral tribute ceremony. Advertisement In the afternoon, key BJP leaders will take part in district-level events across Delhi. Among them, Dr Alka Gurjar will attend the West Delhi event, Virendra Sachdeva will be present in Shahdara, Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra in Mayur Vihar, Organisation Secretary Pawan Rana in New Shahdara. Other senior leaders, including MPs Manoj Tiwari, Yogendra Chandolia, Kamaljeet Sahrawat, and Bansuri Swaraj, will mark the occasion in their respective districts. Emphasising the significance of the day, Sachdeva stated that the BJP is not just a political party but a movement dedicated to the nations development. He reiterated the partys commitment to combating anti-national forces and building a globally respected India. Even as the Marxist party stops short of calling the Modi regime fascist, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin has made it clear that defeating fascism and bringing to a close the BJP rule at the Centre is a prerequisite for federalism to blossom in the country. The present BJP regime is running a totalitarian fascist government by turning statutory institutions as its handmaiden! The homogenising push towards one nation, one religion, one food, one election, one examination, and one culture leading to a single-party rule will eventually result in the concentration of power with an individual. Then, his word becomes the Vedas, what he desires will be the law, and only his chosen few will have power, with those blessed by him alone will get financial allocation, Stalin charged, addressing the ongoing 24th party Congress of the CPI(M) in Madurai, Thursday evening. Advertisement Warning about the danger lying ahead, the DMK chief said, We have to defeat fascism and the monstrosity of the BJP, assuming different dimensions. For, the Union Government under Modis watch, contrary to his assurance before becoming Prime Minister to carry out decentralisation, remains as one which undermines the States, destroys state languages, wiping out nationalities and crushing the pluralistic traditions. Advertisement In his view, only through regime change at the Centre, federalism could be saved and the BJP could be defeated only through sustained campaigns. It is towards this goal that leaders like Prakash Karat are working and we are together with you in this, he added. For, the present rulers in the Union Government are allergic to federalism and detest the rights of the states. Though the very first line of our Constitution makes it amply clear that India is a Union of States and that is why I continue to address Union Government. I am not saying anything non-existent in law, but they cant tolerate even this, the DMK chief said, adding Myself and my sagavu (comrade in Malayalam) Pinarayi Vijayan are the prime victims of the BJP governments authoritarianism. He called me brother. Yes, he is my elder brother. Reiterating that state autonomy is a core ideology of the DMK, Stalin recalled that it was the DMK government of M Karunanidhi that had passed the resolution on State Autonomy in the Tamil Nadu Assembly in 1974, which remains a torchbearer for protecting not only Tamil society but for all States and nationalities in India. As Gujarat Chief Minister, Modi had pressed for the implementation of the recommendations of the Sarkaria and Punchhi Commissions on Centre-State relations. But what action had Modi taken? On the contrary, States are deprived of their rights through legislation, and financial rights have been taken over by GST. Governors are replicating as BJP state presidents, and Bills passed by state assemblies are gathering dust. States under parties opposed to the BJP are coerced, toppled and defections are engineered, and parties are split. Moreover, States are seen as redundant, he said. Expressing happiness at the temple city of Madurai turning red, Stalin said even half of the DMKs flag is red. Further, affirming the alliance with the Left parties, the Chief Minister said We have been together since 2019, and the expectations of those waiting for a crack in the alliance will turn futile. For ours is cemented by ideological bonding. On the relationship between the Dravidian movement and the communist movement, Stalin recalled that Dravidian icon Periyar EV Ramasamy was the first to translate the Communist Manifesto in Tamil. And for his part, he had announced in the Assembly earlier in the day to install a statue of Karl Marx in Chennai, conceding the demand of the CPI(M) state Secretary P Shanmugham, to honour the father of scientific socialism. The 31st Board Meeting of the Haryana Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (HRIDC) was held here on Friday under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi to review the status of priority railway infrastructure projects in the state. Key decisions and updates were shared regarding the commissioning of important sections, including Manesar-Patli line, Kurukshetra Elevated Track, and the proposed Eastern Orbital Rail Corridor at the meeting. Advertisement Additional Chief Secretary, B&R, Anurag Agarwal was also present in the meeting. Advertisement The chief secretary emphasized the need for timely completion and coordination among stakeholders to ensure efficient implementation of the infrastructure projects aimed at boosting connectivity and economic growth in Haryana. It was informed that the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), Northern Circle, has sanctioned the remodeling of Patli Yard in connection with the commissioning of the Patli-Manesar (Priority Section). The critical interconnection of the Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor (HORC) with the Indian Railways network at Patli was completed on March 28, 2025. The MSIL Railway Yard, including formation, track, overhead electrification (OHE), and signaling and telecommunication (S&T) works, has been completed. The entire Manesar-Patli section (excluding Patli Yard) is now physically ready, with opening documents submitted to Northern Railway on March 27, 2025, for onward transmission to the CRS. Inspection by the Commissioner of Railway Safety is expected in April 2025. Regarding the construction of the elevated viaduct, track, and electrification under the Kurukshetra Elevated Track Project, it was informed that the work has been completed. While the first phase was initially planned to be commissioned without Thanesar Stationeliminating five level crossingsNorthern Railway has directed that the project be commissioned only after the completion of Thanesar Station, which is now planned in Phase-II. The full project, including Thanesar Station with its elevated platform, is scheduled to be completed by September 2025. The feasibility study for the Eastern Orbital Rail Corridor (EORC), connecting Sonipat to Palwal via Baghpat, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar, was assigned to HRIDC by the Government of Uttar Pradesh. HRIDCs report was submitted to the Steering Committee of NCR (UP), chaired by the Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh, on February 28, 2025. Apart from this, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Garhi HarsaruFarukhnagarJhajjar line (36 km) is currently under preparation while the Karnal-Yamunanagar new rail line (65 km) is also under process. Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Arun Kumar Gupta and other senior officers were also present on the occasion. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The volume of gas exported from Azerbaijan to Europe has doubled, reaching 14 billion cubic meters, the country's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said at the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting, Trend reports. According to him, Azerbaijan's production projects should be rapidly developed, the pipeline's transportation capacity should be increased, and a centralized compressor station should be built. "Long-term gas contracts can be signed between Azerbaijani and European consumers. This will be the most important guarantee for the European Union. The expansion of the corridor will unequivocally increase Europe's energy power, so with such coordinated and strong cooperation - Azerbaijan, the European Union, energy companies, regional participants, and financial resources - we will already raise the Southern Gas Corridor to a new level. We must work for this," the minister added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit Chhattisgarh on Friday for a two-day trip to evaluate the progress of the ongoing anti-Naxal operations in the state. During his visit, HM Shah will chair a high-level meeting to review the current operations, focusing particularly on the Leftwing insurgency-hit areas of Bastar and Gariaband. His visit will include a direct review of the security situation in these regions, with a particular emphasis on the progress and effectiveness of anti-Naxal measures. Advertisement This visit comes at a critical time as Chhattisgarh has seen significant success in its efforts to combat Naxal violence. So far in 2025, at least 130 Naxalites have been killed in encounters, with more than 110 of those deaths occurring in the Bastar division, which includes the districts of Bijapur and Kanker. Advertisement Additionally, over 105 Naxalites have been arrested, and 164 have voluntarily surrendered as part of the ongoing efforts to restore peace to the region. On Saturday, HM Shah is set to travel to Dantewada, a key area in south Bastar, where he will meet with security personnel actively involved in the operations. Additionally, the Union Home Minister will attend the closing ceremony of the Bastar Pandum festival, an event organised by the state government to highlight the rich art, culture, and cuisine of the various tribal communities in Bastar. HM Shahs visit is part of the governments broader strategy to eliminate the Naxal threat by March 31, 2026. He has consistently urged Maoists to surrender and rejoin society, promising a well-structured rehabilitation process. The Home Ministers visit underscores the governments ongoing commitment to ending the Naxal insurgency and ensuring long-term peace and development in the affected regions. The Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulamas (EK faction) mouthpiece, Suprabhatam, criticized Congress over the Waqf Amendment Bill debate in Parliament. In an editorial published on Friday, Suprabhatham questioned the absence of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress MP from Wayanad in Kerala, during the discussions and voting on the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. Advertisement The editorial said Priyanka Vadras absence in the Lok Sabha violates the Congress whip and remains an indelible stain in the collective memory. It also criticizes Rahul Gandhi for not participating in the discussions. The question as to why the Opposition leader did not speak at the Lok Sabha during the discussions will also remain, it said. Advertisement It has been reported that there is a strong feeling in the Muslim community over Priyankas absence during the discussions on the Waqf Bill in Lok Sabha on Wednesday. Many a Muslim leaders feel that Priyanka should have acted in a more responsible way when the House was deliberating on an important issue. It is a betrayal of voters by Priyanka, who won the elections with a thumping majority with the support of the minorities, especially Muslims, said T K Ashraf, general secretary of the Wisdom Islamic Organisation in a Facebook post. Sathar Panthaloor, former general secretary of the Samastha Kerala Sunni Students Federation (SKSSF), said Priyanka, with her absence during the discussions on the Waqf Bill has disappointed the voters of Wayanad. In a significant step towards improving road infrastructure and easing traffic congestion in Delhi, the government has approved the construction of a dedicated road corridor along both sides of the Sahibi River (Najafgarh drain), from South West Delhis Dhansa to Basai Darapur in West Delhi. Additionally, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of a modern and decongested Delhi, four major roads previously under the PWD, have now been officially handed over to NHAI for better management, expansion, and maintenance. Advertisement In the first meeting of the UT-Level Coordination Committee, chaired by PWD Minister Parvesh Verma on Friday, several crucial decisions were made to eliminate traffic bottlenecks, improve inter-agency coordination, and expedite key road projects. Advertisement To reduce traffic congestion and provide an alternative route, a dedicated road corridor will be developed along both sides of the Sahibi River, from Dhansa to Basai Darapur, aimed to offer seamless connectivity and ease vehicular movement in key areas of the city. To ensure smooth traffic flow, the police station near the Dhaula Kuan Metro Station will be relocated to create a dedicated slip road from NH-48 towards Naraina, which is expected to eliminate a major traffic bottleneck in the area. Four major roads in Delhi have been officially handed over to NHAI including Delhi-Rohtak Road (NH-10), from Peeragarhi to Tikri Border, Delhi-Rohtak Road (NH-10), from Peeragarhi to Zakhira, NH-2 (Mathura Road), from Ali Village to Ring Road, Ashram Junction and NH-148A (MG Road) 8 km stretch. Speaking on the initiative, the PWD Minister said under PM Modis leadership the government is committed to transforming Delhis road infrastructure into a world-class, seamless, and future-ready network. The Sahibi River corridor will be a game-changer for the city, offering an alternative traffic route and significantly reducing congestion. Additionally, the transfer of key roads to NHAI will ensure faster expansion, better maintenance, and a more efficient commuting experience for Delhiites. Our government is working relentlessly to make Delhi a modern, well-connected, and congestion-free city, with infrastructure that meets global standards, Verma added. To ensure seamless execution and inter-agency coordination, several senior officials and representatives from key departments of Delhi participated in meeting including Principal Secretary (PWD), GNCTD, Divisional Commissioner-cum-ACS/ Principal Secretary (Revenue), Commissioner (MCD), ACS/ Principal Secretary (Environment & Forest), ACS/Principal Secretary/Secretary (Power), CEO, Delhi Jal Board, Commissioner (Planning), DDA, Regional Officer, NHAI, Delhi and Engineer in-Chief of the PWD. The committee will hold regular meetings to monitor progress, fast-track approvals, and ensure swift execution of these critical infrastructure projects. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on Friday and reassured him of Indias assistance to deal with the recent devastating earthquake in the Southeast Asia nation. The two leaders, who met on the margins of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, discussed bilateral relations between India and Myanmar, particularly in sectors like connectivity, capacity building, infrastructure development and more. Advertisement In a post on X, the PM wrote, Met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. Once again, expressed condolences on the loss of lives and damage to property in the wake of the recent earthquake. India is doing whatever is possible to assist our sisters and brothers of Myanmar in this critical time. Advertisement Mr Modi also met Prime Minister of Bhutan Tshering Tobgay and discussed cooperation between the two countries in different areas. In a post on X, he wrote, Had a great conversation with my good friend, PM Tobgay. Indias friendship with Bhutan is robust. We are cooperating extensively in several sectors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Tamil Nadu on the occasion of Ram Navami on Sunday and inaugurate the new Pamban Rail Bridge Indias first vertical lift sea bridge connecting Rameswaram to the mainland. According to the Prime Ministers Office (PMO), at around 12 noon on Sunday, PM Modi will inaugurate the new Pamban Rail Bridge and flag off a train and a ship from the road bridge and witness the operation of the bridge. Advertisement Thereafter at around 12:45 PM, the Prime Minister will perform darshan and pooja at Ramanathaswamy temple at Rameswaram. Advertisement At around 1:30 PM in Rameswaram, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation various rail and road projects worth over Rs 8,300 crore in Tamil Nadu and will also address the gathering on the occasion. The Prime Minister will inaugurate the New Pamban Rail Bridge and flag off Rameswaram-Tambaram (Chennai) new train service. The bridge carries a deep cultural significance. According to the Ramayana, the construction of Ram Setu was initiated from Dhanushkodi near Rameswaram, the PMO said in a statement. The Bridge, linking Rameswaram to the mainland, stands as a remarkable feat of Indian engineering on the global stage. It is built at a cost of over Rs 550 crore. It is 2.08 km in length, features 99 spans and a 72.5-metre vertical lift span that rises up to a height of 17 metres, facilitating smooth movement of ships while ensuring seamless train operations. Constructed with stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade protective paint, and fully welded joints, the bridge boasts increased durability and reduced maintenance needs. It is designed for dual rail tracks to accommodate future demands. A special polysiloxane coating protects it from corrosion, ensuring longevity in the harsh marine environment. The Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation various rail and road projects worth over Rs 8,300 crore in Tamil Nadu. These projects include foundation stone for four-laning of 28 Km long Walajapet Ranipet section of NH-40 and dedication to the Nation of 4-laned 29 Km long Viluppuram Puducherry section of NH-332; 57 Km long Poondiyankuppam Sattanathapuram section of NH-32 and 48 Km long Cholapuram Thanjavur section of NH-36. These highways will connect many pilgrim centres and tourist places, reduce distance between cities and enable faster access to Medical College and Hospital, Ports besides empowering local farmers to transport agricultural products to the nearby markets and boost economic activity of local leather and small scale industries. Senior Congress leader KC Venugopal said on Friday that the Nyaypath: Sankalp, Samarpan, and Sangharsh is the tagline of the upcoming All India Conference Committee (AICC) session in Gujarats Ahmedabad. Addressing a press conference here on Friday, Venugopal, who is also the Congress General Secretary in-charge of Organisation said, The All India Conference Committee sessions theme is Nyaypath: Sankalp, Samarpan, and Sangharsh. This will be the tagline for the upcoming AICC session. Advertisement He said the event is scheduled to take place on April 8-9 at Sabarmati riverbank in Ahmedabad. Advertisement On April 8, the Extended Congress Working Committee will meet at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Memorial. This year marks the 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhis presidency and the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, both iconic figures born in Gujarat, he said. Venugopal informed that the meeting would be attended by CWC members, permanent and special invitees, PCC presidents, CLP leaders, council leaders, CEC members, office bearers of CPP office, former CMs and Deputy CMs. Approximately 169 people will attend on the first day. On April 9, the AICC session will take place, with around 1,725 elected AICC members and co-opted members attending, along with MPs, ministers, and other senior leaders, he said. Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned sine die on Friday, the last day of the Budget Session. The Lok Sabha recorded the productivity at 118 per cent while the Rajya Sabha was functional at 119 per cent. During the session, the government completed its budgetary exercise after the Lok Sabha gave its nod to the demands for grants for the various ministries as well as the Finance Bill. The budget for Manipur, under Central rule, was also cleared. Advertisement The Waqf Amendment Bill that witnessed a showdown between the government and the Opposition was passed by Parliament as the two Houses sat for long hours to clear the law. Advertisement As soon as the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha met for the day, they were adjourned till noon as BJP members demanded Congress leader Sonia Gandhis apology for her remarks on the passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill. When the Lok Sabha reassembled at noon, Speaker Om Birla said the House underwent 26 sittings from the commencement of the Session on January 31. He said, We are at the end of the fourth session of the 18th Lok Sabha. This session started on January 31, 2025. In this session, we had 26 sittings, and the total number was about 118 per cent. During his closing remarks, he informed the House that during the session, 10 government bills were introduced, and 16 bills, including the Waqf Amendment Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, were passed. A total of 173 members participated in the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the Presidents address, the Speaker said, adding that 169 members participated in the discussion on the Union Budget. On Thursday, 202 members raised matters of public importance in the House during Zero Hour, which is a record for the number of matters raised during Zero Hour in a day for any Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha was adjourned again at noon following a protest by treasury bench members over the Supreme Court ruling on the West Bengal teachers job for cash scam. When the House reassembled at 1 pm, the House was adjourned sine die after Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhars valedictory speech. Mr Dhankhar said productivity of this session stood at 119 per cent and a record 49 Private Members bills were introduced in the Upper House. Overall House functioned for a total of 159 hours, including more than 4 hours after midnight. Productivity of this session stood at 119 per cent. On 3 April, the Rajya Sabha began its proceedings & held its longest-ever sitting from 11 AM to 4:02 AM the next day, marking a historic milestone, he added. Mr Dhankhar extended wishes to member Birendra Prasad Baishya on the occasion of his farewell from the Rajya Sabha. Both the Houses held more than 12-hour discussions on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, passing it past midnight after intense speeches, allegations from the Opposition members, and rebuttals from the treasury benches. The government introduced the revised Bill after incorporating the recommendations of the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which examined the legislation introduced in August last year. The Bill seeks to amend the Act of 1995 and improve the administration and management of waqf properties in India. The Budget Session of the Parliament was convened in two parts; it commenced on January 31 and went on till February 13. The second part of the session began on March 10. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday conveyed to Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus Indias deep concern over the safety and security of minorities, including Hindus, in the neighbouring country, and hoped the interim government would ensure their safety, including by thoroughly investigating all cases of atrocities committed against them. The meeting between the two leaders on the margins of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok was the first since the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina regime in Bangladesh in August last year. Advertisement At a media briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that Bangladeshs request for the extradition of Sheikh Hasina also came up during the meeting. Advertisement This issue did come up. Bangladesh has made a formal request regarding Sheikh Hasina. Saying anything more on this will not be correct right now, he said. PM Modi reiterated Indias support for democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. He emphasised that India desires to forge a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh based on the spirit of pragmatism. The PM also urged that any rhetoric that vitiates the environment is best avoided. On the border, he emphasised that strict enforcement of the law and prevention of illegal border crossings, especially at night, are necessary for maintaining border security and stability. Bilateral mechanisms could meet as appropriate to review and take forward the ties. The PM expressed his conviction that all issues of mutual interest between the two countries would continue to be addressed and resolved bilaterally through constructive discussions, in the interest of their long-standing and mutually beneficial bilateral relationship. He congratulated Bangladesh on assuming the Chair of BIMSTEC and looked forward to the forum further advancing regional cooperation under its leadership. The leaders agreed to enhance consultations and cooperation to advance regional integration, including under the BIMSTEC framework. The four Quad nations on Friday pledged over $20 million in humanitarian assistance to Myanmar to deal with the situation arising from the recent earthquake in the country. In a joint statement, India, Japan, Australia and the United States expressed deep sympathies and condolences to the peoples of Myanmar and Thailand following the quake that struck central Myanmar on March 28. Advertisement The significant loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction of infrastructure worsen an already-dire humanitarian situation in Myanmar, they noted and welcomed recent commitments to temporary, partial ceasefires and call on all parties to implement, extend and broaden these measures, to provide a safe and conducive environment to facilitate timely delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance throughout the Southeast Asian country. Advertisement We, the Quad partners, have so far committed humanitarian assistance estimated at a combined value of over USD 20 million. Through our funding and bilateral efforts, we are delivering relief supplies, deploying emergency medical teams and supporting humanitarian partners working in Myanmar to provide care for those affected by the earthquake, the joint statement said. It said the Quad is coordinating efforts to ensure that our response effectively and efficiently distributes assistance and meets the needs of the communities affected. The Quads Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Partnership has established a coordination group that is collaborating closely with other partners, including the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management. Quad cooperation traces its origin to our response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, and since then, we have provided practical and effective humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in moments of need across the Indo-Pacific. We affirm the Quads commitment to working together in response to natural disasters and broader challenges to regional stability and security, as part of our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, the statement added. Delhi Police on Friday intensified security in various areas of the national capital anticipating protests or disturbance by anti-social elements over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill cleared by Parliament last night. Several companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed in sensitive areas of the city, including Jama Masjid, Jamia Nagar, Batla House, and Old Delhi, among others. Besides, CCTV cameras and drones are also being used to keep a watch on rooftops and lanes. Advertisement In the wake of intelligence inputs, the DCPs have been instructed to deploy female police officers in specific areas to manage potential women protestors even as there was hawk-eyed surveillance in areas such as Jamia Nagar, Seelampur, Jafrabad, and around Jama Masjid. Advertisement In the Jamia Nagar area, a team of the Delhi Police and the CAPF carried out a flag march while in South East Delhi, three CAPF companies were mobilized and strategically deployed at sensitive locations to maintain law and order. Two companies, comprising women personnel, were also deployed to tackle any untoward incidents that might arise. In the Jahangirpuri area that witnessed the 2020 Delhi riots, security has been tightened as a precautionary measure against possible protests and the police carried out a foot march before the prayers, while drone surveillance was also carried out from rooftops. Similarly, in the North-East District, the police have intensified foot patrolling with outer force and deployed drone surveillance to enhance monitoring. Strict safety measures are in place to maintain peace and tranquility, said an official. Moreover, police personnel have been deployed in Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) University as a precautionary measure to ensure that the law and order is not disturbed by anti-social elements. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 4. Kazakhstan, in cooperation with Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan, is beginning work on a large-scale project to construct a green energy transmission line across the Caspian Sea with further access to European markets, said Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev while speaking at the Central Asia European Union summit in Samarkand, Trend reports. In his speech, Tokayev presented his vision of the future agenda for cooperation between Central Asia and the European Union to the summit participants. President Tokayev believes that the primary focus should be on strengthening trade and economic ties. According to him, Kazakhstan is ready to increase exports to the EU in 175 product categories worth more than $2 billion. To finance such projects, the President urged European companies to use the platform of the International Financial Center Astana. Another important area of cooperation mentioned in his speech was energy. Kazakhstan remains a reliable supplier of hydrocarbons to Europe. Our country accounts for about 13 of the EU's total oil imports, the majority of which comes through the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC). We highly appreciate the European Union's support aimed at ensuring the stable and long-term functioning of this consortium, while also developing alternative routes for transporting raw materials. Kazakhstan is implementing projects in the field of renewable energy and environmentally friendly fuels. We are increasing the capacity of wind and solar energy, and also developing projects for the production of 'green' hydrogen in cooperation with our long-term partners Total, Eni, Svevind, and other European companies, noted Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. In his opinion, cooperation in rare-earth materials is another strategically important area of cooperation. Kazakhstan produces 19 out of the 34 types of raw materials needed for the EU economy, including uranium, titanium, copper, lithium, cobalt, tungsten, and many others. In conclusion, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed gratitude to the participants of the event and European partners for supporting the initiative to establish the UN Regional Center on Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. He believes that this center will effectively promote the universal Agenda 2030 and contribute to solving pressing social, economic and environmental problems in the region. Today, the Central Asia European Union summit took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Central Asia European Union summit is an important diplomatic meeting where cooperation issues between the Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan) and the European Union are discussed. These summits are usually held to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties between the two regions. Media reporting around preparations of COP30 climate summit is worrying. COP30 is the 30th UN-led Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It is slated to take place in Belem, Brazil in November this year. Preparations are currently on for this global summit which will bring thousands of people to the port city of Belem. According to a recent BBC news report, a four-lane highway is being built for the COP30 climate summit. This new highway, aimed to ease traffic, will cut through tens of thousands of acres of protected Amazon rainforest. The deforestation of the Amazon rainforest has drawn criticism from conservationists and locals, who argue that it directly contradicts the summits environmental goals. The UNFCCC was adopted in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Its primary aim is to discuss steps toward international climate action for which it organises the annual COP summit. Advertisement The COP provides a platform for strengthening carbon emission reduction targets and promoting climate change adaptation strategies. Constructing a new highway through the Amazon rainforest, a well-known carbon sink, is bound to raise eyebrows. It has also put the intent of the COP30 summit under scrutiny. The four-lane Avenida Liberdade highway is presently under construction in Belem and is expected to improve traffic flow after it is completed. On their part, the COP30 Secretariat in Brazil has put out a clarification that the construction of this new highway is not one of the 33 infrastructure projects planned for COP30. Advertisement The highway is designed to connect various parts of the city which may include the central venue of the COP30 summit. The project will improve accessibility for COP attendees; however, its construction contradicts the very environmental principles the conference is meant to uphold. The highway cuts through protected Amazon rainforest areas and sets a dangerous precedent for the region and for future COP events. The first COP of the UNFCCC took place in Berlin, Germany in 1995. Since then, COP has been held every year with few exceptions and has become an annual gathering of individuals interested in combating climate change. The summit brings together world leaders, government officials from UNFCCC member states along with NGOs, inter-governmental organisations, and private sector stakeholders. However, the summit is not without inherent contradictions highlighted further by the Avenida Liberdade construction project. While COP attendees travel half-way across the world contributing significantly to carbon emissions, the COP sets ambitious carbon reduction targets that are often unmet. The targets remain unattainable even though they are achievable either because of lack of genuine commitment or the required follow-through. While the UN-led COP undeniably serves as a global platform for climate policy and action, its current operational structure raises valid questions about its sustainability. Is it truly driving change, or has it become just another exercise in greenwashing for some nations? The focus of COP30 on infrastructure development to accommodate more than 50,000 expected participants is equally concerning. Should COP30 really be organised as a global sporting-like gala event for increasing tourism and expanding urban infrastructure? And if that is indeed a focus, the opportunity should be used to promote ecotourism, reforestation, and sustainable travel. The UN indeed has a carbon offset platform where individuals and organisations can compensate for their emissions by paying money. However, COPs held earlier have not been able to make carbon offsetting universally accepted by all UNFCCC member nations. In the absence of its unanimous implementation, critics argue that it favours big polluters and does not make any real reduction in global carbon emissions. The aim behind organising COP30 and other climate conferences is to push for sustainable solutions. Rethinking how global conferences are held and how they can be made sustainable is crucial. Climate conferences can significantly reduce their environmental impacts by transitioning to virtual format or choosing eco-friendly venues. This will drastically cut emissions, lower costs and enhance participation in these summits. Scientists and policy makers from less developed countries, small NGOs and indigenous groups will be able to take part in this manner thereby enhancing inclusivity. Advanced virtual reality spaces should be used which can mimic real conference interactions. A similar approach should be followed by the pre-COP regional summits to ensure grassroots concerns are heard and addressed. A one-size-fitsall approach at COP summits will remain ineffective without understanding localized needs and vulnerabilities to climate change. The planned Avenida Liberdade highway through the Amazon rainforest will pave the way for further deforestation and ecosystem disturbance, contradicting COPs commitments and exposing the gap between promises and actions. COP30 must help resolve the long-standing tensions over Amazon conservation and development, but certainly not in a way that it becomes the beginning of the end for Amazon rainforest. (The writers are, respectively, an associate professor and a student at the Jindal School of Environment & Sustainability, O.P. Jindal Global University, Haryana, India.) In our ever-evolving global landscape, society, culture, and civilization extend beyond anthropocentric perspectives, encompassing a broader organic framework that includes both flora and fauna and synanthrope. This interconnectedness demonstrates our vital zoonotic connections. Historically, sustainability was woven into the fabric of pre-modern traditions, where animals played essential roles in human life. However, the rise of the Westphalian modern state system has fragmented and interrupted this relationship, leading to a profound disconnection from these eternal traditions. As humanity became divided into smaller geopolitical units, our relationship with animals ~ the very symbols of our cultural identity and healthy ecology ~ began to fade. This modernist focus on human rights has overshadowed the essential connections we once celebrated, contributing to a significant erosion of broader ecological wisdom and traditional knowledge systems that historically guided sustainable practices. The ramifications of this disconnect extend beyond our bond with nature; they have exacerbated the global environmental crisis we now face. To navigate out of this predicament, it is imperative to recognize and revive our ancient bonds with animals and ecosystems. Advertisement Such endeavours are crucial for fostering a more holistic and sustainable approach to human development and environmental conservation. Radhakamal Mukherjee was an important figure in Indian philosophy and thought, and his ideas connect deeply with Indias soft power, especially through nature. He believed that nature is not just a backdrop for human life but a vital part of our identity and culture. Indias rich natural beauty, from the Himalayas to the rivers and forests, reflects a way of life that values harmony and respect for the environment. This connection invites people from all over the world to appreciate Indias culture and traditions, which are often inspired by the natural world. Advertisement By promoting a message of peace, unity, and respect for nature, Mukherjees ideas contribute to Indias ability to share its unique identity and values globally. This bond with nature helps India present itself as a source of wisdom and warmth, making its influence felt far beyond its borders. This exceptional blend of a civilization grounded in strong Hindu-Buddhist eclectic traditions, shaped by centuries of Islamic impact, and intertwined with European institutions and ideas, equips India with unique syncretic cultural resources to navigate the intricate, diverse, and global realities of the twenty-first century. In recent years, a novel form of diplomatic courtesy ~ known as animal diplomacy ~ has emerged as a distinctive genre of soft power. This practice connects societies and embodies our underlying civilizational values and legacy, directly linked to our interactions with animals. As nations engage in the exchange of rare or culturally significant species as gestures of goodwill, this new diplomatic language fosters international cooperation while raising awareness about vital conservation efforts and biodiversity. Animal diplomacy serves as a potent tool for cultural exchange. By sharing unique fauna, countries can showcase their individual identities and strengthen bilateral relations. These exchanges act as powerful telos of diplomatic courtesy, enhancing mutual understanding and fostering camaraderie among nations. Through the gift of animals, nations not only demonstrate their commitment to global biodiversity but also reinforce their responsibilities toward environmental stewardship. Furthermore, these animal exchanges often catalyze collaborative research endeavours and conservation programmes. By building international partnerships around shared ecological challenges, nations can pool their expertise to address pressing environmental issues more effectively. This cooperative spirit transcends borders and highlights the need for an integrated app roach to sustainability grounded in the principles of environmental diplomacy. Gifts and tributes have historically serv ed as crucial means to foster relationships among empires and dynasties. In ancient Egypt, the lineage of pharaohs exhibited a profound reverence for animals, embedding them into their cultural rituals and practices. In the modern era, as nations struggle for territory and resources, the exchange of animals ~ such as pandas, tigers, or chimpanzees ~ between states resonates with an unparalleled sense of goodwill. By employing the enduring orientalist imagery, Nehrus elephant gift diplomacy effectively showcased Indias soft power. Additionally, he adeptly transformed a colonial symbol into a national diplomatic icon. Recently, Malaysia, the second-largest producer of palm oil, is launching a plan called orangutan diplomacy. This idea involves giving orangutans to nations that buy their palm oil. The goal is to highlight Malaysias commitment to protecting these endangered animals, whose homes are often lost due to palm oil farms. Inspired by Chinas success with panda diplomacy, Malaysia hopes this approach will help improve its environmental reputation. This creative strategy shows how cultural exchanges can play an important role in global politics, helping countries connect in a unique way. This practice not only symbolizes camaraderie but also inspires innovative didactic strategies that promote conservation and international cooperation. By enhancing intergovernmental dialogues through animal diplomacy, nations can pivot toward sustainable practices that respect both wildlife and cultural identities. As we face an increasingly complex environmental landscape, embracing soft power through environmental diplomacy offers a pathway to restore our connection with nature. By reviving the ancient bonds with animals and adopting practices like animal diplomacy, nations can cultivate a deeper understanding of sustainability that transcends borders. Through these efforts, we can foster a future where cultural heritage and ecological integrity go hand in hand, paving the way for a more harmonious existence between humanity and the natural world. India has succeeded in presenting itself as the land of the better story, despite facing resource constraints. However, its international reputation is still somewhat mixed, as the nation and its people typically enjoy a significant amount of goodwill from abroad. Yet, New Delhi has struggled to effectively utilize this goodwill for strategic benefits, going beyond just lauding its abundant heritage, culture, films, spirituality, and Yoga. While entities like the ICCR and the External and Public Diplomacy Division of the MEA have made important progress in nation-branding, there seems to be a gap between Indias ambitions of becoming a Vishva Guru (i.e. world leader) in the 21st century and the initiatives it has undertaken for conservation of nature and humanity. Even though politicians and policymakers often refer to soft power idioms broadly, the primary influences on Indian foreign policy remain security and trade concerns, and there is still a lack of a concrete policy aimed at promoting animal diplomacy as a tool of greater Indic soft power. (The writers are, respectively, Professor and Head, Department of Political Science, S-K-B University, Purulia, and Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Ramananda College, Bankura) Amid Kolkatas rich cultural tapestry, art has always been a vessel for true expression. This legacy found fresh resonance in Dialogues Across Time, an exhibition that celebrated 210 years of the Indian Museum in collaboration with the Basu Foundation for the Arts. This first-of-its-kind exhibition displayed modern artworks alongside historical artefacts, intertwining the past with the present while looking towards the future. It opened at the Indian Museum on 11 January 2025 and, after an insightful run, concluded on 31 March. Curator Sayantan Maita Boka remarked that the exhibition was an exploration, with the situating of contemporary art within the museums galleries thereby initiating dialogues between the artworks, viewers, and the space itself. He explained that this experiment challenged perspectives on cultural preservation and the role of art, ultimately shaping our collective understanding of history. The exhibition also featured educational programmes, workshops, and interactive sessions that engaged a wide range of audiences, including scholars, artists, and the general masses. Dr Sayan Bhattacharya, Deputy Director of the Indian Museum, noted that the collaboration between the Basu Foundation for Arts and the Indian Museum fostered a dialogue between ancient and modern art, offering visitors a unique opportunity to appreciate the world of art. Advertisement Stepping into the museum, visitors were greeted by the work of Subodh Gupta, a pink cow sculpture, and another piece crafted by the women of Chanakya School of Crafts, facing each other across the Lion Capital. In the Bharhut Gallery, self-portraits by Bala Subramanium were displayed in relation to the surviving Toranasone of camphor, ever-vanishing, and another of imperishable sand. Around the corner, Bharati Khers painting, depicting bindus that resembled sperm upon closer inspection, drew parallels with the Jataka stories, exploring the cyclical nature of life, morality, and rebirth. In the Gandhara Gallery, two sculptures of Buddha invited viewers to celebrate the harmony of creativity and spiritual enlightenment. Meanwhile, the Coin Gallery showcased Poshto, a sculpture by the Jaipur-based collective Wolf, reimagining one of the most important revenue sources of colonial India while correlating with coins that facilitated trade and commerce. M. Pravats work in the Archaeological Gallery explored architectural forms using construction materials, evoking the interplay between the built environment and the natural world. Advertisement In the courtyard, sculptures made of stone and metal were placed at the four corners amidst the green grass, contrasting with nature. The corridors housed the installation Chaander Haat, which introduced an architectural aspect eliciting interactions and exploring the overlap of history and sociocultural narratives. There was the Wandering Cloud by Satish Guptaa bronze sculpture adorned with reliefs of clouds and celestial bodieswhich tapped into childhood quests for adventures and secrets shared with the skies. The Evolution Gallery featured The Eye of the Tiger, where an entire village of Sawai Madhopur contributed vibrant paintings of tigers. Ascending the stairs, visitors encountered Dayanita Singhs Museum of Tanpura, revealing an intimate world of artistry and conviviality. Beyond lay the Painting Gallery, showcasing works by Prasant Sahu, Bose Krishnamachari, and Soma Das. Sahu explored the dynamic connection between rural and urban worlds, while Bose created a contradiction by displaying blank Braille canvases behind glass, challenging visual accessibility. Soma Das, on the other hand, delved into the daily life of middle-class women engaged in various activities. Paintings by stalwarts Manu Parekh, Thota Vaikuntam, and Jayasri Burman were displayed on circumjacent walls, appearing to regard the mummy in the centre. Folk art by Jagdish Swaminathan and Jangarh Singh Shyam was displayed alongside contemporary works by Arpita Akhanda and Deepak Kumar, blending regional elements with modern aesthetics to pose open-ended questions. Rathin Burmans architectural sculpture at the Fossil Gallery entrance interacted with the museums walled structures, while inside, Chittrovanu Mazumdars artwork created an illusion of timelessness, evoking a layered landscape within a landscape. The Mammal Gallery offered another moment of wonder, as the works of Bhasha Chakrabarti and Subodh Kerkar aligned seamlessly with the surrounding fossils, bones, and stuffed animals. In the Insect Gallery, Jagannath Pandas paintings and sculptures of birds provided a touch of irony set against displays of entomological specimens. Manish Pushkales installation in the Zoological Gallery provided an immersive experience, exploring the pictorial vocabulary of lost languages. The Deco Art and Textile Gallery greeted visitors with intricate tapestries, suspended ceramic sculptures, and Vivek Vilasinis rendition of The Last Supper, exploring profound truths about connection and healing. Paintings by masters F.N. Souza and M.F. Hussain were displayed amidst exquisite sarees. A veiled sculpture by Debashish Paul evoked the likeness of a wedding garment, while Dayanita Singhs Pandals Pillar contrasted with an overlooking Buddhist shrine. Olie Studios immersive light sculpture mirrored a flowing river, while land art pieces by artists of sa Biennale, along with works by others, were also displayed here. The exhibition unfolded like a journey through time and ideas, serving as a bridge between the historical and modern narrative. The highlight lay in the placement of contemporary art within the museums historical spaces, transforming the experience into an artistic treasure hunt. There was a sense of discovery, balancing playfulness with learning. Children from visiting schoolsBirla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani, and Presbyterian English School, Mizoramfound the exhibition delightful and interesting, reflecting the universal appeal of this thoughtfully curated journey. As Dialogues Across Time concluded, it left behind a lasting impressiona reminder that art is ever-evolving, yet rooted in its history. What happened to his hand? asked a child with curiosity. The childs parent, in an effort to deviate attention, hastily added that the hand in question was injured and would recover soon. However, I knew only too well that that would not be the case. My son was born with a radial club hand a permanent condition, says Dr. Shweta Verma, the co-founder of Ginnys Planet and Ginny Ki Duniya Foundation. She goes on to emphasize that permanence isnt always a problem. Its more to do with mindset. My son was born with multiple health conditions and we were constantly in and out of hospitals, but that has taught us so much. As a disability rights social worker since 2002, I had forgotten how people perceive you when youre seen only as a mom. The questionWhat happened to his hand? is fine. The discomfort around the answer isnt. As per the Census 2011, the number of Persons with Disabilities in India stands at 2.68 crore, which is 2.21 percent of the total population of the country. A number of initiatives, like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, by the Government has positively impacted the lives of PWDs, but there is still a lot that needs to be done. Challenges are manifold: lack of awareness, funding, implementation gaps, adequate training, among others. Advertisement Manvi Sethi is a Special Educator, who has been working with children with special needs since decades. She points out: While awareness about special needs is growing and early diagnosis is becoming more common, there remains a significant gap in the availability of well-trained educators, who can serve as both counselors and trainers. Many schools still lack the resources and expertise to address the unique needs of students with special needs effectively. To meet government requirements, schools often assign a maximum of two educators to handle a large number of students, which is far from adequate. What children with special needs truly require are individualized education plans, adaptive strategies, and a modified curriculum that caters to their specific needs. Manvi also feels that, in addition, there is a growing argument that the examination system should be adjusted to better assess abilities of students with special needs, such as through multiple-choice questions or oral tests. Advertisement Various NGOs working with Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) strive to generate awareness on the subject via diverse advocacy tools. However, funding remains a critical hurdle, which is where partnerships come into the picture. Dr. Dina Pahlajani, M.D., is the President and Co-founder of Childrens Hope India. For over three decades, Childrens Hope has been committed to providing quality education to children from marginalized backgrounds. At the same time, we recognize the unique challenges faced by vulnerable children with special needs. Our programs support abandoned girls with cerebral palsy in Kolkata, provide education and medical assistance for boys with haemophilia, and offer summer camps for children with autism. Our goal is to empower these children and their families through their critical childhood years, maximizing their abilities so they can lead independent, fulfilling lives. However, raising awareness and securing resources remain urgent challenges, as these children require comprehensive, multi-level care. We urge greater support to ensure that no child is left behind.. Dr. Michelle Harrison, Founder, Shishur Sevay, couldnt agree more. Childlife Shishur Sevay was founded by Dr. Michelle Harrison in 2006. Michelle built Shishur Sevay as a best practices model of a family style, inclusive non-institutional home for lost and abandoned girls, some having profound disabilities. Childrens Smart Centre (CSC), which is a free inclusive community playschool established in March, 2020, helps learning holistic, integrated, enjoyable and engaging. Today, Shishur Sevay is home to 14 girls, and some of them have severe disabilities. Among the girls, one is currently in college and learning spoken English; another is pursuing a diploma in Fine Arts and has earned a Black Belt in Karate; one student is in class 12 at The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and holds a certificate in Yoga; yet another girl is involved in making jewellery, doing embroidery, sewing, and managing school administration (at CSC). The youngest child is in class 6 at an international school and is also learning French. The older girls are teaching at CSC. Says Michelle: When I began my journey with Shishur Sevay, a number of people told me that I was serving a lost cause, but I knew in my heart of hearts that despite numerous challenges, someone had to do something about the cause of children, especially girl children, abandoned and with special needs. For me, that was the day of my enlightenment as I call it. There has been no looking back ever since. Funds, policies, security & safety, logistics, administrative work, sustainability and so many other such issues have been constant hurdles, but support has always come in, somehow, from somewhere. Inclusion has many roads that lead to it, one of which is the ability to accept that being different is just fine, and each individual is unique in their own way, facilitating diversity. As Sumanta Kar, Chief Executive Officer, SOS Childrens Villages of India, succinctly puts it: As a society, we must challenge outdated perceptions and recognise that children with special needs are not just recipients of care but contributors to the nation. With the right guidance, they excel in diverse fields, be it sports, arts, technology, or vocational careers. At SOS Childrens Villages India, we have witnessed this first-hand at our Childrens Village in Khajuri Kalan, which is dedicated exclusively to the care of children with special needs. Many of our children have gone on to represent India in the Special Olympics, winning medals and proving that ability is not defined by limitations but by opportunity. It is time we move beyond sympathy and embrace empowerment; only then can we build a truly inclusive nation. However, for inclusion to be a reality, education (curricular/extracurricular) and skilling are critical, especially if self-dependence and independence (more so financial) are to be ensured. Danish Mahajan is the founder of Radio Udaan. He is visually impaired and stresses on the need for skilling. Beyond that, he underlines the fact that skills have the power to change minds and reshape perceptions. A well-honed skill can create opportunities, shift societal attitudes, and open doors that were once closed. Education and skills arent just toolsthey are the keys to unlocking a world of possibilities and ensuring an inclusive future for all. As a visually impaired individual, one of the biggest challenges I faced was the lack of accessible opportunities in education and employment. The world isnt always designed for persons with disabilities, and breaking through societal barriers required immense perseverance. Even today, I believe that attitudinal barriers, inaccessibility, and a lack of information or awareness remain the biggest challenges. Realizing this, I founded Radio Udaan to provide timely information, showcase skills, and break these barriers. Instead of waiting for change, I became the change. As the world keeps moving forward at a heady pace, it is imperative to understand that each individual is unique in their own way; it is this understanding and acceptance that can help mitigate conflicts and many challenges, making the world a more inclusive and equitable place to be in. There is no greater disability in society, than the ability to see a person as more. This quote could not be more apt in todays time and age, where ability forms such an integral part of disability, even literally. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmars military-led government, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, discussing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and extend support following the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar. This marks the first bilateral meeting between the two leaders during PM Modis third term in office. Advertisement Taking to X, PM Modi shared details of the meeting, saying, Met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. Once again expressed condolences on the loss of lives and damage of property in the wake of the recent earthquake. Advertisement India is doing whatever is possible to assist our sisters and brothers of Myanmar in this critical time, he added. Following the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that claimed over 3,000 lives, India launched Operation Brahma, positioning itself as a first responder in line with its Neighbourhood First and Act East policies. Under the operation, India has dispatched tonnes of medical supplies and relief materials to Myanmar. PM Modi had earlier expressed deep sorrow over the disaster and conveyed Indias condolences directly to Min Aung Hlaing, reaffirming Indias commitment to assisting Myanmar during this crisis. Apart from discussing earthquake relief, the two leaders also explored ways to enhance cooperation between their countries. We also discussed bilateral relations between India and Myanmar, particularly in sectors like connectivity, capacity building, infrastructure development, and more, PM Modi posted on X. Chinas latest military exercises in the East China Sea represent more than just routine drills ~ they are a direct message to Taiwan and the broader international community. With an increasing display of military might, precision strikes on simulated targets, and an emphasis on control over vital infrastructure, China is signalling its intent to pressure Taiwan into submission. The stakes of this military posturing extend far beyond the Taiwan Strait; they touch upon global security, regional stability, and the delicate balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. For years, China has sought to assert its claim over Taiwan, branding the islands democratically elected leaders as separatists and rejecting any notion of Taiwanese sovereignty. The recent military exercises, involving warships, aircraft, and advanced weaponry, are a calculated effort to intimidate Taiwan and remind its allies of Beijings military capabilities. The use of livefire drills and footage depicting strikes on critical infrastructure sends a chilling message: China is preparing for scenarios that involve the strategic crippling of Taiwans defences. These actions are not occurring in a vacuum. Advertisement They follow a pattern of escalating tensions, coinciding with high-level visits by US officials to Asia and increased diplomatic backing for Taiwan. By launching these war games, China is not only testing Taiwans response but also gauging the reaction of the international community, particularly the United States and its allies. While Washington has reaffirmed its commitment to Taiwans security, Beijings aggressive manoeuvers challenge the strength of that support and seek to undermine regional confidence in US deterrence. The implications of this military escalation are profound. If China continues to push the envelope with increasingly provocative actions, Taiwan and its partners may be forced to re-evaluate their defensive strategies. Advertisement For Taiwan, bolstering its military readiness is now more crucial than ever, with a focus on asymmetric warfare, cyber defences, and supply chain security to withstand potential blockades or disruptions. However, military preparedness alone is not enough. Diplomatic and economic strategies must also play a role in countering Chinese aggression. Strengthening international alliances, enhancing trade partnerships, and securing commitments from global actors to deter any unilateral changes to the status quo are essential. Chinas growing military footprint must be met with a concerted effort to reinforce the stability of the Indo-Pacific region, not only through deterrence but through proactive engagement. The world cannot afford to view Chinas latest drills as mere sabre-rattling. They are part of a broader strategy to normalise military pressure on Taiwan, testing the limits of global resolve. If left unchallenged, such actions risk setting a dangerous precedent where military coercion dictates political outcomes. The international community must stand firm, ensuring that the rules-based order prevails over threats of force. The future of Taiwan ~ and the broader regional stability ~ depends on it While appealing for international help to quake-ravaged Myanmar, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for transforming the tragic moment into an opportunity to end the brutal civil conflict. He asked the international community to immediately step up vitally needed funding to match the scale of this crisis. Advertisement And to the government and people of Myanmar, he said, as they unite in grief, its also time to unite behind a political solution to end the brutal conflict. Advertisement There must be an end to the violence and human rights violations across the country and a pathway for democracy to take root, he said while speaking to reporters at the UN on Thursday. Guterres announced that he was rushing Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher to Myanmar and his Special Envoy Julie Bishop will visit the country to reinforce our commitment to peace and dialogue. India had already launched Operation Brahma immediately after the earthquake, flying relief supplies and personnel to Myanmar, which was the epicentre of the March 28 earthquake. Guterres said, The death toll is now 3,000 and climbing with thousands injured, and many trapped under the rubble. This disaster has laid bare the deeper vulnerabilities facing people throughout the country, he said. He added that as communities across Myanmar unite in grief, its also time to unite behind a political solution to end the brutal conflict. Welcoming the temporary ceasefire between the military government and the rebels in the civil war, he said, This is essential to help aid flow and let rescuers do their jobs. But an end to fighting must quickly lead to a beginning of a serious political dialogue and the release of political prisoners. He said that the ceasefire should lead to an inclusive political process where all the people of Myanmar feel represented. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that the quake has affected more than 17 million people. Myanmar is ruled by the military, which overthrew the democratically elected government in 2021. The regime has not been recognised and the representatives of the civilian government continue to hold Myanmars seat at the UN. Myanmars military junta announced a temporary ceasefire in its fight against rebels until April 22 to facilitate relief and reconstruction efforts following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that has resulted in the death of more than 3000 people with 4,715 people injured and another 341 reported missing. The Office of the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services of Myanmar in a statement issued late Wednesday said that out of compassion and understanding for the earthquake victims across the country and in order to accelerate rescue and reconstruction efforts, as well as maintain peace and stability, a temporary ceasefire will be in effect from April 2 to April 22. Advertisement The statement noted that the massive earthquake on March 28 and the subsequent aftershocks caused damage to roads, bridges, and buildings, resulting in casualties. The country is making every effort to continue rescue and reconstruction work, it said. Advertisement A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake, followed by a 6.4 magnitude aftershock minutes later, struck Myanmars Mandalay region last Friday, causing massive casualties and damage in multiple countries. The statement said that during the temporary ceasefire, ethnic armed organisations and other armed groups must not obstruct or attack civilian transportation routes, harm lives or public property, assault security force camps engaged in safety and law enforcement duties, attack military bases, mobilise or reorganise forces that undermine peace, or carry out any territorial expansion. If such actions are taken, the defence forces will take necessary measures to protect the people, Xinhua News Agency reported. Earlier Prime Minister Min Aung Hlaing, head of Myanmars junta, had rejected ceasefire proposals from Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) and declared a continuation of military operations. The move directly undermined humanitarian efforts as the casualties from the devastating earthquake escalated. Some ethnic armed groups may not be actively engaging in battles right now, but they are gathering and training in preparation for attacks. Since this is a form of aggression, the military will continue necessary defence operations, he said during a fundraising event in Naypyidaw. Meanwhile, Myanmar experienced 66 aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 2.8 to 7.5 on Thursday morning, the countrys Department of Meteorology and Hydrology revealed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Advisor of the interim government in Bangladesh, sat side by side during the official dinner hosted by the Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for the visiting Heads of States and Head of Governments on Thursday attending the BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok. The official X handle of Chief Advisor of the Government of Bangladesh posted screen grabs of both leaders sitting side by side at the dinner table as the Thai PM welcomed the BIMSTEC leaders. Advertisement Local media in Bangladesh quoted Chief Advisors Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad as saying that both leaders met each other during the official dinner. Advertisement The interim government has been keen on holding first-ever bilateral talks between the two leaders on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok. The BIMSTEC chairmanship will be officially handed over to Bangladesh on Friday. Chief Advisors High Representative on Rohingya and Priority Issues Khalilur Rahman said on Wednesday that the leaders of BIMSTEC member states will discuss their future works with Yunus and there is a scope to hold the meeting between Yunus and PM Narendra Modi. We requested India to hold this talk (between the leaders of two countries)there is enough possibility of holding this meeting, Rahman said, addressing a press briefing in Bangladesh ahead of the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand. Last week, PM Modi had written a letter to Yunus on the occasion of the National Day of Bangladesh, highlighting the significance of mutual sensitivity while referring to the Bangladesh Liberation War as a shared history. We remain committed to advancing this partnership, driven by our common aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity, and based on mutual sensitivity to each others interests and concerns, wrote PM Modi. New Delhi has been worried about the deteriorating law and order situation in Bangladesh under the current interim government. The Yunis regime has been criticised severely for acquitting extremist elements and exonerating many Islamists since the fall of the Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. We support a stable, peaceful, inclusive and progressive Bangladesh in which all issues are resolved through democratic means and by holding inclusive and participatory elections. We remain concerned about the deteriorating law and order situation, which has further been exacerbated by the release of violent extremists who were sentenced for serious crimes, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal has stated on several occasions. As Bangladesh slid into abyss following the fall of Awami League government, the Yunus-led regime has been accused of giving a free hand to the Islamist forces in the country and also relaxing comprehensively the policy of mandatory security clearance required for Pakistani citizens seeking visas, thus facilitating easy return of many notorious terror suspects who had earlier fled to the safe havens in Pakistan. With no end still in sight to attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, particularly on members belonging to the Hindu and Ahmadiyya communities, the MEA has repeatedly highlighted the serious issue and the interim governments botched up investigations that have so far been just an eyewash. We have repeatedly underlined that it is the responsibility of the interim government of Bangladesh to protect Hindus and other minorities, as well as their properties and religious institutions. As seen so far, only 1254 out of 2374 reported incidents between August 5, 2024, and February 16, 2025, have been verified by the police. Further, 98 per cent of these 1254 incidents were deemed political in nature. We expect Bangladesh to thoroughly investigate and bring all perpetrators of killings, arson, and violence to justice without making such distinctions, the MEA spokesperson has mentioned in the past. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, during his meeting with Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain in Muscat, conveyed that it is important that Bangladesh should not normalise terrorism. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 4. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, addressing the Central Asia-European Union Summit in Samarkand, expressed support for the EU's Global Gateway strategy, which aims to expand sustainable transportation links in the region, Trend reports. In his speech, Tokayev presented his vision for the future agenda of cooperation between Central Asia and the European Union. He emphasized that Kazakhstan, in collaboration with the EBRD, is implementing projects in geological exploration and introducing advanced and sustainable practices in the mining industry. In this context, the President proposed establishing a Regional Research Center for Rare Earth Metals in Astana, which could become a source of relevant information for enterprises and investors regarding available deposits, technologies, and their development. The President of Kazakhstan believes that with the necessary infrastructure and coordinated actions by the countries of the region, Central Asia can become a prosperous transit hub, ensuring efficient supply chains between the East and the West. Last year, container transportation along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route grew by 62 percent, reaching 4.5 million tons. The cargo flow is expected to increase to 10 million tons by 2027, Tokayev emphasized. He also noted that Kazakhstan plays a crucial role in clean energy production, providing around 40 percent of global nuclear fuel supplies. Last year, Kazakhstan established the Regional Project Office on Climate Change and 'Green' Energy, Tokayev added. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev thanked the event participants and European partners for supporting the initiative to establish the UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. In his view, this center will effectively serve to promote the universal "Agenda-2030" and contribute to addressing urgent social, economic, and environmental issues in the region. The session also featured speeches by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the President of the European Council Antonio Costa, the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Japarov, the President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdymukhammedov, and the President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Odile Renaud-Basso. Today, the Central Asia European Union summit took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Central Asia European Union summit is an important diplomatic meeting where cooperation issues between the Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan) and the European Union are discussed. These summits are usually held to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties between the two regions. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. So, youve found yourself in the unfortunate position of needing a lawyer. Perhaps a business dispute, a personal injury claim, a bitter divorce, or simply the misfortune of breathing in the general direction of a litigious lunatic. Whatever the reason, welcome! You have now entered the labyrinthine, Kafkaesque world of the legal systema place where logic goes to die, paperwork multiplies like rabbits on steroids, and every ticking second costs you money. Step One: The consultation, A.K.A. the financial icebreaker The moment you set foot in the lawyers office, you will be greeted with the warmest of smiles, a comfortable chair, andsomewhere beneath the surfacethe distinct whiff of an impending financial mugging. Tell me everything, says the lawyer, pen poised, eyes gleaming. You spill your woes, detailing the injustices, the wrongs, the deep wounds inflicted upon your dignity and bank balance. The lawyer nods, scribbles notes, occasionally mutters Mmm, interesting (code for billable time), and, after precisely 49 minutes (the sweet spot before another charge kicks in), tells you: Well, this is certainly a complex matter. Complex. A delicious word in the legal profession. It means: You are in deep trouble, and I am about to get very rich. And so begins the baptism of fire. Step Two: DelegationA masterclass in financial gymnastics Once youve signed the engagement letter (which you definitely didnt read, but dont worryits only legally binding against you), your case enters the black hole of delegation. In an ideal world, delegation means efficiency. In the legal world, it means everybody in the building is going to get a piece of the action. Senior Partner A reads your file450 an hour. He hands it to Junior Partner B350 an hour. Who hands it to Associate C275 an hour. Who hands it to Paralegal D175 an hour. Who hands it to Trainee E125 an hour. Who opens it, sighs, panics, and emails it back to Junior Partner Bfor further guidance. Total bill so far: 3,750. And thats before anyone has even done anything remotely useful. Step Three: The billable minute circus Legal billing operates on the sacred unit system. In most firms, 1 unit = 6 minutes. This means that an email reading Thanks. will be rounded up to six full minutes of expert legal thought. Now, the real artistry lies in the duplication. One lawyer reads the document = billable. A second lawyer reads it too = billable. They discuss what they have read = billable. They summarise what they discussed = billable. They email you the summary of their discussion = billable. You dont respond fast enough = follow-up email = billable. By the time you receive an invoice, you may be under the illusion that an army of legal scholars has been working day and night on your case. In reality, they have spent four hours debating where to place a comma and another three engaged in strategic contemplation (read: making coffee and gossiping about the oppositions suit choice). Step Four: The courtroom lottery, A.K.A. the day you contemplate Seppuku After months (or years) of delays, adjournments, and procedural faffing, your day in court finally arrives. You sit nervously, ready to watch your well-oiled legal machine deliver the killer blow. Instead, you witness: Your barrister frantically flipping through pages they clearly havent read. The oppositions lawyer putting on their concerned face, occasionally tutting for dramatic effect. The judge sighing deeply, as if questioning their life choices. And then comes the moment of reckoning. You win! Justice prevails! Your case was sound, the evidence impeccable! Your reward? Watching the defeated party disintegrate into financial ruin as their lawyer hands them a final, eye-watering bill that makes them question whether life is still worth living. And if you lose? Well, congratulationsbankruptcy proceedings begin at dawn. Final Step: The acceptance stage (or, the lawyers new summer home) At some point, all legal clients reach the same epiphany: This system is completely and utterly insane. A game of financial brinkmanship where the real winners are the ones who never stepped into a lawyers office in the first place. You will stare at your final invoice, numbly noting the charges: Internal discussion regarding case strategy (2,100) Consideration of potential alternative arguments (1,750) Email to client regarding status update (425) Time spent logging billable hours (375) You will sigh, pour yourself a drink, and resign yourself to fate. Meanwhile, your lawyer is off to the Maldives, sipping cocktails and contemplating whether to buy the yacht with the jacuzzi or the one with the helipad. Welcome to the legal system. Youll leave poorer, wiser, and with a newfound respect for not picking fights that require legal intervention. Now, pay up. Indian pharma stocks such as Aurobindo Pharma, Laurus Labs, IPCA Labs, and Lupin, fell up to 7 per cent as US President Donald Trump hinted at imminent tariffs on pharmaceutical imports. He said the pharma sector would be treated as a separate tariff category. This has brought in much unease to the sector, which had heaved a sigh of relief earlier, believing that it has been spared. Now the sector is treading cautiously as Trump tariff clouds are looming over the sector. Many experts rightly pointed out that Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 enables the government of the US, more particularly the President of the US, to take necessary action to restrict the import of items/articles that are deemed to threaten or impair national security. While pharmaceuticals had been currently exempted from tariffs imposed by the US, potential future scrutiny under Section 232 could pose significant challenges for the sector. Since Section 232 primarily addresses national security concerns, pharmaceutical imports may be evaluated not just economically, but strategically. Indian pharmaceutical companies should closely monitor developments and proactively engage with policymakers, where possible, to ensure transparency around supply chain security, quality standards, and the strategic importance of maintaining diverse, reliable sources of essential and generic medicines. Proactive preparedness and strategic dialogue will be key to mitigating risks associated with potential Section 232 actions, remarked Arvind Sharma, Partner, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. The Indian pharma sector has started feeling the jitters and the future is expected to be jittery for them in the US market. Till Thursday, many experts had pointed out that the US administration might have exempted pharmaceuticals from reciprocal tariffs, due to its focus on enhancing the availability of affordable medical care of the US citizens. As per CRISIL, India exported US $8 billion of pharma products to the United States in fiscal 2024 which is its largest export destination. The Indian pharma sector also supplies 40 per cent of generics consumed in the US. India has more than 650 manufacturing facilities approved by the US Food and Drugs Administration (USFDA), the second-highest number outside the US. They account for a quarter of all such certified facilities outside the US. The possibility of tariffs being imposed by the US administration on pharmaceuticals at a later stage cannot, however, be ruled out. That said, several potentially mitigating factorsongoing drug shortages in the US, the higher cost of domestic pharmaceutical production, and declining profitability of US pharma firmsare expected to be taken into consideration before any such imposition, remarked Anuj Sethi, Senior Director, Crisil Ratings. On Thursday, pharmaceutical stocks had performed well as the sector had been exempted from tariffs; however, Nifty Pharma took a beating on Friday, retreating over four per cent. With US President Donald Trump imposing a 26 per cent tariff on Indian exports to the country, Sensex and Nifty crashed on Friday, reflecting a global sell-off. The most impacted industries in India include electronics and smartphones, gold jewellery, fisheries, and textiles. Pharma The pharma sector is exempted from the tariff currently. However, Trump could levy a sectoral tariff on pharmaceuticals just like the automobile industry. Indian pharmaceuticals amount to 10 per cent of country's exports to the US. Major companies include Cipla, Sun Pharma, Dr Reddy's and Lupin. IT sector The IT sector will also be among the least affected sectors in India. Though the tariffs are not directly applied to service sectors like IT, they can be indirectly affected by the economic slowdown in the US. Electronics India has seen an increase in export of mobile phones after Apple started assembling iPhones in the country. Some of the components used to build iPhones are imported from China, South Korea and Taiwan, which are facing massive tariffs. However, rival assembly destinations like Thailand and Vietnam are facing higher tariffs than India, in effect making it a preferred iPhone assembly hub. Fisheries Indian fishery exports could be impacted by US tariffs despite exporters like China and Vietnam facing higher tariffs. This is because fish-exporting Ecuador has 17 per cent tariff less than India. Hence US importers would prefer lucrative fish from Ecuador to India. Gold The retaliatory tariffs will impact gold jewellery manufacturers as India's 23 per cent of the $3,200 crore exports in the sector are going to the US. The previous tariff was 7 per cent and if this is raised by 20 per cent more, it can have huge repercussions on Indian gold industry. Textile Trump's retaliatory tariffs are expected to be boon for the Indian textile industry as major exporters like China (44 per cent), Cambodia (59 per cent), Vietnam (56 per cent) and Bangladesh (37 per cent) are facing higher duties. India exports around $2,000 crore worth of textiles currently. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 4. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev proposed developing the "Erasmus+ for Central Asia" program, with a focus on training specialists in priority sectors such as artificial intelligence, water resource management, biotechnology, and others, during his speech at the "Central Asia European Union" summit in Samarkand, Trend reports. In his speech, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev paid special attention to digital technologies and the development of artificial intelligence. "Kazakhstan is actively investing in these areas. Earlier this year, an International Advisory Council on Artificial Intelligence was established under the President of Kazakhstan. A program to train 100,000 IT specialists is being implemented in the country. A high-tech center, Alem. AI is being created in Astana to support innovation, startup creation, and research in this field. We have also launched a Venture Fund to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence. Through the Team Europe initiative, the European Union is supporting Central Asian countries in developing cooperation in digital technologies. Kazakhstan is ready for collaboration and experience sharing. In this regard, I propose launching the 'Central Asia European Union' Innovation Campus at Astana Hub," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Tokayev underscored that the EU has always been an important partner for Kazakhstan in science and education. "Our countries are actively cooperating within the frameworks of Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and other initiatives. The opening of more than thirty branches of foreign universities in Kazakhstan is helping to promote useful academic knowledge in our country. We are interested in further receiving grants and scholarships, and such programs are already being implemented in cooperation with several European countries," added the President. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also noted the importance of international security and stability as a key factor for sustainable development. He emphasized that Kazakhstan is firmly committed to a balanced foreign policy, expanding cooperation with all interested countries and major organizations, including the EU. Reminding of the growing global instability, the President called for restraint and responsibility in assessing the complex events occurring in the world. On the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, he urged all countries to focus efforts on upholding the UN Charter and universally recognized principles of international law and to support the work of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. In conclusion, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev thanked the participants of the event and European partners for supporting the initiative to create the UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. In his view, this Center will effectively contribute to the advancement of the universal "Agenda 2030" and help address pressing social, economic, and environmental issues in the region. Today, the Central Asia European Union summit took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Central Asia European Union summit is an important diplomatic meeting where cooperation issues between the Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan) and the European Union are discussed. These summits are usually held to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties between the two regions. Indian Air Force (IAF) Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Yadav, who was killed in the Jaguar fighter jet crash in Gujarat, was cremated with full military honours at Majra Bhalkhi village in Haryana's Rewari district on Friday. Yadav (28) died in the aircraft crash incident near the Jamnagar IAF station on Wednesday night. His mortal remains arrived in Rewari before being taken to his native village. A large number of people, including several ex-servicemen carrying the tricolour in their hands, stood on roads showering flower petals as the vehicle carrying the IAF officer's mortal remains passed through. The IAF personnel offered a gun salute as his mortal remains were consigned to flames. Former Haryana minister Banwari Lal, BJP MLA from Bawal in Rewari district, Krishan Kumar, thousands of locals, IAF officers, members of the armed forces, police officers, gathered to salute the IAF officer as his family members bid a tearful adieu. The pilot is survived by his father, mother and younger sister, who is pursuing a B.Tech course. Having got recently engaged, he was to get married in November this year, his family said. The flight Lieutenant had recently come home on leave and got engaged on March 23. He had gone back to join duty on March 31. He was to get married in November, Sachin, a relative, told reporters. The first edition of the Naval Commanders' Conference will be held from Saturday to Thursday, focusing on the Indian Navy's quest to strengthen modernisation, indigenisation, and self-reliance. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh will engage with Naval Commanders during the event. The conference will be held in two phases, in Karwar and New Delhi. The defence ministry said the conference is the apex level, biannual event facilitating deliberations on significant strategic, operational, and administrative issues among the top Naval Commanders. The event is expected to play a major role in emphasising India's role as a 'Preferred Security Partner' in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), bolstering the Indian Navys contribution to regional peace, security, and stability, the ministry added. ALSO READ: Why India decided to wet lease 60-year-old KC-135 aircraft from US military contractor Metrea for IAF, Navy It will begin with the flagging-off of the Indian Ocean Ship Sagar (IOS Sagar) by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. IOS Sagar is an initiative aimed at continued cooperation with IOR nations in pursuance of the Union government's vision of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions (MAHASAGAR) Following the flagging-off ceremony, Singh will inaugurate multiple maritime infrastructures and support facilities under Project Seabird. He will also be apprised on 'Indian Naval Op Readiness and Future Outlook' during the first phase of the Conference at Karwar. A comprehensive review of major operational, material, logistics, HR development, training, and administrative aspects will be undertaken during the second phase of the conference in Delhi. During this phase, the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of the Army Staff, and Chief of the Air Staff, will interact with the Naval Commanders in a bid to enhance synergy amongst the three services. The conference will bring out synergy and address critical operational, administrative and materiel issues meriting immediate attention and decisions by Naval Commanders, charting Indian Navy's course in pursuit of being a 'Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive and Future Ready Force', a statement from the defence ministry read. Legendary actor and director Manoj Kumar died at the age of 87 on Friday. Fondly known as "Bharat Kumar" for his roles in patriotic films, the veteran actor was a winner of Dadasaheb Phalke award. Director Ashoke Pandit took to X, saying, "...Our inspiration and the 'lion' of the Indian film industry, Manoj Kumar ji, is no more. It is a great loss to the industry. The entire film fraternity will miss him." #WATCH | Mumbai | On the demise of Indian actor and film director Manoj Kumar, Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit says, "...The legendary Dadasaheb Phalke award winner, our inspiration and the 'lion' of the Indian film industry, Manoj Kumar Ji is no more...It is a great loss to the industry pic.twitter.com/vWL7FRI44D ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2025 Taking to X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Manoj Kumar, saying he was saddened by the passing of the the actor. Calling him an icon of the Indian cinema, the PM said he was known for his patriotic zeal as seen in his films that ignited national pride and will continue inspiring generations to come. How did Manoj Kumar die? Manoj Kumar, 87, died of a heart attack at 4.03 am on Friday. The actor spent his final moments at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He was admitted to the hospital on February 21. Besides he had been battling decompensated liver cirrhosis, which deteriorated his health condition. Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Ji's works ignited a spirit of national pride and will pic.twitter.com/f8pYqOxol3 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025 Born on July 24, 1937, in Amritsar, his real name was Harikrishan Goswami. Besides winning Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, he was also conferred with Padma Shri in 1992 as well as a National Film Award. Manoj Kumar was known for his roles in iconic movies like Shaheed (1965), Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), Roti, Kapda Aur Makaan (1974) and Kranti (1981). He also directed and acted in Shor, which was released in 1972. Remembering Manoj Kumar, filmmaker Ashoke Pandit said, "He was always full of life, he was always happy, and the entire industry will miss him. A great soul like him, a great maker like him, will never be there in our industry. Goodbye Manojji, goodbye." A raid was conducted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at the Chennai and Kerala offices of L2: Empuraan co-producer Gokulam Gopalan. Reports say the raid was conducted at Gokulam Chennai's Kodambakam-based chits and finance corporate office and Kozhikode-based Gokulam Grand corporate office and Gokulam Mall on Friday morning. The raid reportedly pertains to a violation of the FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act). Officials from Kochi are also said to be involved. Gokulam's offices have been the subject of raids in the past a few times, once on suspicion of income tax evasion and the other related to a customer of Gokulam who was involved in a bank fraud. Many are speculating whether the raid is connected to the L2: Empuraan controversy. However, as per reports, the ED officials are focusing only on the FEMA violation. Gokulam Gopalan came aboard the Mohanlal-starrer just days before its release, when an unresolved financial dispute between co-producer Antony Perumbavoor's Aashirvad Cinemas and Subskaran's Lyca Productions threatened to interfere with release plans. Gokulam settled the dispute by coming in place of Lyca. L2: Empuraan, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran and written by Murali Gopy, had kicked up a political storm over its references to the 2002 Gujarat riots and depicting one of the perpetrators as the antagonist, with right-wing outfits labelling the movie as "anti-RSS" and "anti-Hindu". Following the backlash, actor Mohanlal apologised on Facebook, admitting that some parts of the film caused discomfort to certain people. He had also assured fans that contentious references would be removed from L2: Empuraan. The makers decided to make get 24 cuts. Antony Perumbavoor revealed that the edits were done voluntarily and not because of political pressure. A public health initiative was launched by the countrys premier research body, CSIR-CCMB to effectively combat sickle cell anaemia in Jharkhand. A large-scale screening for sickle cell anaemia will be rolled out using an advanced low-cost molecular test developed by Hyderabad-based CSIR-CCMB. The project will be carried out in collaboration with Tata Steel Foundation and the National Health Mission (NHM). An announcement in this regard was made on Friday in Hyderabad. The pilot phase will begin in the Kolhan region covering East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum and Seraikela-Kharsawan districts. It is expected to generate realistic data on the spread of the disease in the tribal belt. Whats the test based on? CSIR-CCMBs test is based on a dried blood spot method that requires a drop of blood on a special card. It eliminates the need for complex lab setups making mass testing easier and cheaper. The test, developed under the leadership of CCMB senior scientist Dr Giriraj Ratan Chandak, has already been successfully used in states like Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra and has received validation from ICMR for its accuracy. Compared to traditional solubility-based screening and expensive HPLC confirmation, this method offers quick results and can also detect both patients and carriers. The test is seen as an ideal one for early intervention and genetic counselling. As part of the initiative, field health workers and local functionaries will be trained to support the screening process. A central hub for testing will also be set up to manage logistics and sample analysis. The collaboration is part of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission launched by the Centre in 2023 which set a goal to screen 7 crore people in high-risk states by 2047. Officials involved in the project hope that the Jharkhand model will become a benchmark for high-impact testing and prevention in other states too. Shingles can be a brutal and painful experience that disrupts daily lifebut there's good news: getting vaccinated is the best way to avoid the misery. And now, new research offers even more motivation to roll up your sleeve. In a large-scale study published in Nature, researchers have uncovered an unexpected benefit of the shingles vaccineit may reduce the risk of developing dementia. The research, led by Stanford Universitys School of Medicine, examined the health records of over 280,000 older adults in Wales, UK, aged 71 to 88. None of the participants had dementia when the shingles vaccination program began in 2013. We found that receiving the zoster vaccine lowered the chance of a new dementia diagnosis over a seven-year follow-up period by 3.5 percentage points, which equates to a 20% relative reduction, the study authors noted. Interestingly, the protective effect was more pronounced in women than in men. To understand the vaccines impact, researchers took advantage of a unique situation. Due to limited vaccine supply, eligibility in Wales was strictly age-based. People who turned 80 just before September 1, 2013, qualified for the shot, while those who turned 80 shortly after did notdespite being only weeks apart in age. This age cut-off allowed scientists to compare health outcomes between groups with similar demographics, one vaccinated and one not. Over the next seven years, researchers tracked both groups and found a clear difference in dementia rates, reinforcing the link between the shingles vaccine and lower dementia risk. But what exactly is shingles? Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful condition marked by a blistering rash, usually appearing on one side of the body. It can cause intense discomfort, numbness, and sensitivity to touch. In more serious cases, complications can arisesuch as postherpetic neuralgia, a chronic pain that lingers long after the rash fades. Other symptoms include fatigue, fever, and headaches, which can disrupt daily life. In severe instances, shingles may even lead to vision or hearing loss and increase the risk of stroke. The culprit behind shingles is the varicella-zoster virusthe same one responsible for chickenpox. After a childhood bout of chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate later in life, especially as the immune system weakens with age. With shingles posing such serious risksand now evidence suggesting the vaccine could also help protect the braingetting vaccinated seems like a win-win for long-term health. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has advanced his visit to Jammu and Kashmir by one day. He will now arrive in Jammu on the afternoon of April 6, instead of the earlier plan to reach on April 7. As per reports, on April 6, Shah will meet all BJP MLAs and senior party leaders. He will also chair two important meetings to review the security situation in the region. The meeting with party leaders will take place on Ram Navami. Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Ministers Office, is also expected to attend. During the visit, the Home Minister will virtually inaugurate and lay foundation stones for several major development projects in the Union Territory. He is likely to take feedback from BJP MLAs on the ongoing Assembly Budget Session, which will resume on April 7 after a 12-day break. The session is expected to end on April 9. The performance of BJP members during the first session of the new government will also be reviewed. In the 2024 Assembly elections, the BJP had won all 29 seats in the Jammu region. However, the number dropped to 28 after the death of senior leader Devender Singh Rana, who represented Nagrota. By-elections for Nagrota and Budgamthe latter vacated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah who retained Ganderbalare yet to be held. Although there are no major elections planned at the moment, Shah is expected to discuss the current political situation with BJP leaders. Upcoming Panchayat and Municipal elections, which are still pending, may also be discussed. Shah will remain in Jammu until the afternoon of April 7 and will then travel to Srinagar. He is expected to return to New Delhi on April 8. Reports suggest that the Home Minister will hold two separate high-level security meetings. One of them will be a Unified Headquarters meeting, attended by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, top officials from the Home Ministry, the Army, paramilitary forces, Jammu and Kashmir Police, intelligence agencies, and senior members of the civil administration. Ending days of speculation of him being stripped off from the state chief post, Tamil Nadu BJP leader K. Annamalai said he is not in the race for the partys next president. Annamalai said that he will continue as a cadre in the party. Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore Annamalai dismissed speculation of his contest to the state leadership post. Ruling himself out of the state president race he said that the next leader will be chosen unanimously by the party members. Reaffirming his commitment to continuing as a party worker and focusing on the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections he said, it is his duty to remove DMK from power in the state. K Annamalai stepped down as the Tamil Nadu BJP chief. He took this decision after realizing that BJP has no clear chance of winning the Tamil Nadu elections. So Now, he plans to stay at home and support CSK, hoping that at least CSK can win this IPL.pic.twitter.com/GUBzmHzTdE Dr Nimo Yadav 2.0 (@niiravmodi) April 4, 2025 When asked if he will be moved to Delhi with a ministerial berth he categorically denied any such plans, stating that he would remain in Tamil Nadu and continue working for the party at the state level. I will continue to be a cadre. I came to politics to fight against corruption, and I wouldnt compromise in that resolve. However, Annamalai refused to comment on whether he is stepping down from the president's post at the insistence of AIADMK with the partys national leadership. One day or the other, a good government will be formed in Tamil Nadu. As a cadre, I will continue my work as usual, he replied. Meanwhile, Annamalai is scheduled to visit Delhi again next week to meet BJP leaders J.P. Nadda and others in the party. Sources say Annamalai could be elevated and given a ministerial berth. I will go to Delhi if I am asked to. But I will come back within a day, even if I go because my work is here in Tamil Nadu. I will not leave Tamil Nadu, Annamalai said. A day after upholding the Calcutta High Court's ruling that led to the dismissal of over 25,500 employees, the Supreme Court on Friday overturned a decision of the High Court, paving the way for the recruitment of more than 2,200 candidates as primary teachers in West Bengal government-run and aided schools. The matter pertains to the 2022 notification issued by the West Bengal Board of Primary Education (WBBPE) which invited applications to fill over 11,765 vacant posts. The board stated that candidates who had qualified for the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) and were trained in D.El.Ed (Diploma in Elementary Education) graduates, as well as those who were undergoing D.El.Ed training in the current academic session were eligible to apply. A case was filed in the Calcutta High Court challenging this decision of the board. The petitioners argued that some 2014 TET qualifiers did not have a D.El.Ed degree since it was not a requirement for appearing in TET at the time. Only after the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) made D.El.Ed mandatory, these candidates enrolled in the course in 2020. As a result, their training remained incomplete when the WBBPE recruitment notification was issued, making them ineligible to apply, according to the petitioners. However, former Calcutta High Court judge Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay approved the boards decision. He noted that candidates from the 2020-22 academic session had begun their course in June 2020 and their two-year course was completed in June 2022. This meant that by September 29, 2022, when the recruitment notification was issued, all these candidates would have already appeared for their final exams. Therefore, he ruled that candidates from this academic session had the right to participate in the recruitment process. The matter was then taken before the division bench of Justices Subrata Talukdar and Supratim Bhattacharya who overturned the single bench order. The two-judge bench claimed that although the academic phase was completed in June 2022, certificates were to be issued in November 2022. As a result, without the certificates, they could not be considered eligible. The case eventually reached the Supreme Court, following which 9,533 candidates were appointed. However, a legal dispute continued over who should be given priority for the remaining 2,232 positions. A bench comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi on Friday finally announced its verdict, rejecting the Calcutta High Courts division bench order. The apex court directed that appointments can be made in accordance with the earlier ruling of the Calcutta High Court. The ruling alliance of Jammu and Kashmir, comprising the National Conference (NC), Congress and independent legislators, passed two key resolutions on Fridayone condemning the passage of the Waqf Bill in Parliament and the other urging the Union government to respect the peoples mandate in the Union territory. These resolutions were adopted during a meeting of the alliances legislature party, chaired by NC vice-president and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar. Senior leaders, including NC president Dr Farooq Abdullah, Congress legislators and independent members supporting the alliance were present. #WATCH | Srinagar | On Waqf Amendment Bill, Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah says, "This bill seems to target only one religion...Targeting Waqf is unfortunate because it seems this action is being taken only against us...Our MPs will oppose this bill." pic.twitter.com/prYqIIkp4g ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2025 The meeting took place amid growing tensions between the alliances elected representatives and the Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinhas administration, particularly over a series of bureaucratic transfers ordered by Sinha without consulting the political leadership. The ruling alliance believes the recent administrative reshuffle is an attempt to sideline elected representatives and centralise power, undermining democratic decentralisation. So far, the alliance has maintained a cooperative stance towards the Centre. However, Thursdays resolutions signal a shift, reflecting growing impatience and a demand for political respect and constitutional propriety in Jammu and Kashmir. The transfers came on the heels of the submission of business rules by the elected government to clarify the distribution of powers between the government and the LG. These rules, drafted in consultation with constitutional experts, aimed to limit the LGs overarching influence in governance. However, the Centre is yet to approve them. The resolution on the Waqf Bill strongly condemned the amendment passed by the Rajya Sabha on Friday, describing it as anti-Muslim and against the interests of minorities in the country. The second resolution stressed the importance of recognising and respecting the public mandate expressed through the recent assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Those who do not honour this mandate are insulting the will of the people, said Tanvir Sadiq, NCs chief spokesperson, at a press conference alongside Congress leader Nizamudin Bhat. The resolution urged the Government of India to uphold democratic principles and facilitate the formation of an elected government in the region. Sadiq said the alliance partners unanimously rejected the amendment bill passed in Parliament. It goes against the spirit of inclusiveness and specifically targets Muslims and minorities in India, he said. Sadiq said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the youth, had participated enthusiastically in the electoral process and their verdict must be respected. Our silence and coordination with Delhi should not be mistaken for weakness. We want to work with love and cooperation, but we also warneddont push us to the wall, he said. The NC leader said the alliance maintained cordial ties with the Centre and the LGs administration, and their constructive approach should not be misinterpreted as submission. Bhat said the meeting was convened to discuss both short-term and long-term political and administrative issues. We are not here just for political optics. There are sensitive issues affecting peoples lives and aspirations, and we are committed to raising them with both the Centre and Raj Bhavan, he said. Bhat also warned against forces attempting to destabilise the political process in Jammu and Kashmir. Some elements seek to undermine democracy and its institutions. But this legislature represents a credible, popular mandate that must be taken seriouslyeven in Parliament, he said. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 4. Kazakhstan plans to increase container cargo transportation along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route to 10 million tons by 2027, said President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, speaking at the "Central Asia European Union" summit in Samarkand, Trend reports. According to him, last year the volume of container transport along the Middle Corridor increased by 62 percent, reaching 4.5 million tons. Tokayev also noted the readiness to boost exports to EU countries for 175 product positions worth over 2 billion dollars. "Kazakhstan accounts for about 13 percent of the EU's oil imports, the majority of which is transported via the Caspian Pipeline Consortium. We highly value the EU for the stable and long-term operation of the CPC and, at the same time, are developing alternative routes for raw material transportation," he said. In conclusion, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev thanked the participants of the event and European partners for supporting the initiative to create the UN Regional Center for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. In his view, this Center will effectively contribute to the advancement of the universal "Agenda 2030" and help address pressing social, economic, and environmental issues in the region. Today, the Central Asia European Union summit took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Central Asia European Union summit is an important diplomatic meeting where cooperation issues between the Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan) and the European Union are discussed. These summits are usually held to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties between the two regions. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will chair an important meeting of the ruling alliance in Srinagar on Friday. The meeting is expected to focus on the recent transfer of 48 JKAS officers by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and the delay in restoring Jammu and Kashmirs statehood. The meeting will be held at the Deputy Chief Ministers residence at Fairview. A formal notice has been sent to party MLAs and alliance partners, asking them to attend. The ruling alliance is upset over the LGs decision to transfer 48 JKAS officers during the Eid holidays. These officers were posted to various positions, including Additional Deputy Commissioners, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, and Assistant Commissioners of Revenue. Flagging off a new era of empowerment free bus rides for women across J&K begin today. pic.twitter.com/KyNdsOI2s0 Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) April 1, 2025 Alliance leaders believe the Lieutenant Governor has gone beyond his powers and ignored the role of the elected government. Abdullah is said to be upset and sees the move as interference in the functioning of his government. The transfers were made after the elected government had sent the business rules to the Centre for approval, through the LG. The rules, prepared with help from constitutional experts, were meant to define the powers of the Chief Minister and the LG. However, the elected government feels it cannot work freely, as the LG still controls the main powers. The government believes that without statehood, it has little authority to make independent decisions. The issue of statehood restoration has been raised several times with the Centre, but the Union government has not given any timeline so far. Friday's meeting is also expected to discuss the Waqf Bill and the ongoing session of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly. Observers opine that tension between the two power centres in the Union Territory will rise over issues of authority and Abdullah will be under pressure to press hard for the restoration of statehood. The elected government was sworn-in on October 16 last year and since then it has struggled to assert its authority in the face of the LG controlling the key levers of power. The BJP government at the Centre adds another layer of difficulty for Abdullah to operate without strings attached. The Karnataka government has demanded its rightful share in the Godavari-Krishna-Cauvery river-linking project and speedy approvals for its long-pending irrigation projects if the state has to sign the draft notification. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar who met the Union Minister for Jal Shakti C.R. Patil in Delhi on Thursday, said that Karnataka would not sign the draft notification (inter-river linking) unless its demands for rightful share of water are not met. The National Water Development Agency (NWDA) which has formulated the proposal of the Godavari (Inchampalli Barrage)-Cauvery link project, has allocated 15 tmc to Karnataka of the 147.932 tmc available for diversion towards drinking water and industrial uses, and to Tamil Nadu (40.930 tmcft), Telangana (45.061 tmcft), Andhra Pradesh (43.861 tmcft) and Puducherry (2.189 tmcft). "Karnataka has been consistently communicating its reservations, as it has not been allocated its rightful share. The actual allocation to Karnataka for drinking and industrial uses will be only 2.19 TMC whereas the other states have been allocated significantly higher amounts for irrigation," stated the memorandum given to the minister. NWDA has not determined the allocations to the States on the principle of equity and equitable apportionment as assured by the ministry in its letter dated 13.10.2015, said the plea, adding that Karnataka would explore legal remedies under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956. The chief minister also urged the ministry to issue directions to the Central Water Commission Authorities to take up immediate appraisal of the DPR and accord necessary clearances to the Mekedatu drinking water project. This is an important project and in the interest of both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, as the excess water flows in a good year can be stored, instead of allowing them to flow into the sea, so that in a lean year, monthly stipulated releases to Tamil Nadu can be maintained. The project will also benefit Bengaluru City in meeting the growing demand for water for the city, said the CM. Karnataka also sought the Centres cooperation in securing expeditious clearance from the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) to the Wildlife Proposal of Kalasa Nala diversion scheme and to declare the Upper Krishna Project as a national project and to issue notification of the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal-II award. The memorandum stated that Karnataka had incurred an expenditure of Rs. 18,730.00 crore on the UKP, which is a lifeline for the northern part of Karnataka. The untethering of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Movement (JKPM) and Democratic Political Movement (JKPDM) from separatism and embracing the Constitution is not an opportunistic tactic. It is a statement that separatism in Jammu and Kashmir is dead, a tombstone even to the so-called representation it claimed to provide. The expansionist Hurriyat Conference, so influential in the politics of the Valley, is today a mere shadow of itself. There is no doubt that this change came during a specific period. The separationist conflict, known as the crisis of Jammu and Kashmir, turned into a prominent identity feature of the region following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. The strategies by which separatist groups had sought to strengthen their ascendancy for long, rested on the absence of clear geographical borders. However, today there is a deeper understanding of people in Kashmir that the Hurriyat and similar outfits offer nothing but a political deadlock, constant violence and economic deprivation. Therefore, the dissociation of JKPM and JKDPM from separatism goes beyond shifting political loyalties; it strikes at the very heart of the ideology of separatism. The Hurriyat and other similar outfits, which banked on emotive manipulation or foreign funding, failed to construct any narrative that promised development, infrastructure, or even a minimal political system. The clearest manifestation of this disillusionment is now found among former followers such as Shahid Saleem and Shafi Reshi, who have openly renounced separatism. Such incidents are no longer exceptional; they are part of a broad pattern in which even the most diehard extremists now concede that coexistence with Indias democratic framework cannot be sustained through hostility. After 2019, the influence of separatist groups has fallen remarkably fast. Violence in Kashmir has decreased by more than 50 per cent, economic indices show a positive trend, and most importantly, the people of Kashmir have actively participated in the democratic process set forth by the country. Even Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), which always appeared as a radical rightwing, has now accepted the participation in elections endorsing that democracy does way more than staying in a cyclic socio-political turmoil. A bigger question that still lingers in the background is whether the governments efforts and achievements will last beyond them. The policies aimed at dismantling sub-nationalism should not be dependent on who wins the election. No matter which political party comes into power, the Indian governments position on separatism should be permanent, resolute and inflexible. The changed stance of parties like JKPM, JKDPM, and JeI does not guarantee that they will not revive separatist agendas if a future government takes a softer stance. Any dilution of the current policies could allow them to resurface under a different banner, just as radical organizations have done globally. In the 1990s, weak political leadership enabled some separatist groups to flourish under the excuse of political engagement. The outcome? An entire insurgency, loss of innocent lives by the thousands, and decades of unending turmoil. The history of insurgency and terrorism in Punjab in the mid-1980s to 1990s is an example. In Afghanistan, the Taliban was treated as a spent force in the early 2000s. This indifference allowed their resurgence which culminated into them taking over the country in 2021. This tells something clearly the stability in Kashmir did not come easy. It had cost the security forces and the lives of the youth of Kashmir. With declining incidents of terrorism and violence, the region is also preparing for an economic makeover. Kashmiri Youth startup programmes and skill-enhancement initiatives have left violence behind, providing an alternative and opportunity to the youth. Therefore, the abandonment of JKPM and JKDPM separatists is not an end, but, rather a new beginning. There is a need to continue to foster a culture of democracy in a way that there is no scope for extremist ideologies to surface again. Mudasir Dar is a social and peace activist based in South Kashmir. He is a Rashtrapati Award recipient in world scouting and has contributed to various local and national publications on topics including national security, politics, governance, peace and conflict. Protests erupted in different parts of West Bengal on Friday against the Waqf Amendment Bill that was passed by both houses of the Parliament this week. Kolkata witnessed the largest demonstrations, with hundreds gathering in the Park Circus area and blocking roads. The protest was led by the Joint Forum for Waqf Protection, a coalition of various Muslim organisations, demanding the bills immediate withdrawal. Protesters accused the BJP-led central government of using the bill to divide the country. Though the protest remained largely peaceful, some demonstrators burned tyres and blocked traffic at the busy seven-point junction in Park Circus, despite repeated appeals from organisers to not engage in such activities. To maintain normalcy, a heavy security presence, including personnel from the Rapid Action Force (RAF), was deployed. Declaring that she would not let Muslims lose their properties, West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee had stated on Thursday that her party would stage protests against the Waqf Amendment Bill on Friday and Saturday in each block of the state. In response, TMC workers organised rallies and public meetings in various districts. At Bhangar in South 24 Parganas, TMC MLA Saokat Molla led a gathering, condemning the central government. "Its not just in West Bengal, but today the entire country is protesting. The current Indian government is worse than the British colonial government," Molla, the Canning Purba MLA said. He accused the BJP-led government of attempting to fuel communal tensions by depriving minorities of their rights. "Today, they have started with Muslims, but tomorrow they will come for Adivasis, Sikhs, Christians, and even Hindus," he warned. Meanwhile, CM Banerjee also called for protests against the central government's decision to increase the prices of 900 essential medicines, including those for heart disease, diabetes, and infections. The Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP), the partys student wing, staged a rally from College Square to Swami Vivekanandas residence in North Kolkata. "The hike in medicine prices has made life difficult for ordinary people," said Trinankur Bhattacharjee, TMCP state president. He urged the central government to follow West Bengals model and open fair-price medicine shops nationwide. Additionally, he demanded the removal of the 18 per cent GST on mediclaim policies to ease the financial burden on citizens. The Supreme Court on Friday granted the Central Bureau of Investigations plea and ruled against producing terror convict Yasin Malik physically in a Jammu court in connection with trial in two criminal cases. Malik, lodged in Tihar jail, will attend the hearing and cross-examine witnesses through videoconferencing. Hearing CBIs plea challenging the physical production of Malik in a Jammu court, a bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan ordered against producing Malik physically for trial in two cases the killing of four Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel on January 25, 1990 and the 1989 kidnapping of Rubaiya Sayeed, daughter of former Jammu and Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti. A special TADA court in Jammu had ordered the physical appearance of Malik in court for conducting cross-examination in the cases. Malik is lodged in Tihar jail following his conviction in a terror funding case in 2023. The CBI challenged the Jammu courts order and argued in top court that taking Malik to Jammu posed significant security challenges. The leader of the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front must not be allowed to leave Tihar jail, CBI argued. The agency informed the apex court that a fully functional courtroom and video conferencing facilities are available at the jail premises. Noting prohibitory orders have been issued under Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita restricting Maliks movement from Delhi for one year, the apex court granted CBIs plea. The top court also noted videoconferencing facilities are available in Jammu court and Tihar prison. Malik, who has not engaged a lawyer, will cross-examine witnesses through videoconferencing. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Delhi on Thursday, to discuss the proposed Gig Workers Welfare Bill, which was a poll promise made by the Congress party in both the 2023 Assembly and the 2024 Parliament polls. We have decided to establish a Gig Workers' Welfare Board to ensure the well-being of workers employed by companies like Amazon, Flipkart, Ola, and Uber, said a statement by the CMO, soon after the meeting at Delhi which was attended by Labour Minister Santosh Lad, IT-BT minister Priyank Kharge and Industries minister M.B. Patil. The three ministers had developed differences over certain provisions in the bill which needed to be addressed. In our meeting with Shri @RahulGandhi today, we reaffirmed our commitment to the promises made during the Bharat Jodo Yatra and the elections - especially to lakhs of gig workers who form the backbone of our digital economy. We have decided to establish a Gig Workers' Welfare pic.twitter.com/2rqCq6vN8O Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 3, 2025 A cess of 5 per cent of the total payout to gig workers (and not on total transaction value) will be levied on the concerned companies, while the remaining required funds will be provided by the state government to support welfare schemes for gig workers," Siddaramaiah said. The Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill, has been deferred since last year after the industry bodies expressed concerns over certain provisions in the bill and the ministers too felt it could impact the startups and industries. The Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) representatives Rakshit Dev from Karnataka, Sheikh Salauddin from Hyderabad and Nikhil Dev who were invited for the meeting at Delhi, welcomed the Bill. Met with our leader Shri @RahulGandhi ravaru in New Delhi today, along with Hon'ble @CMofKarnataka Sh @siddaramaiah , Sh @SantoshSLadINC , Sh @PriyankKharge , and senior officers, to discuss various issues related to the #GigWorkers in #India. In our meeting we reaffirmed our pic.twitter.com/9smoUs97eo M B Patil (@MBPatil) April 3, 2025 Last July, when the bill was placed before the stakeholders for wider consultations, the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) and the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) had expressed concerns over a few provisions hindering ease of doing business. The draft bill includes aggregators providing services like ride-sharing, logistics, food and grocery delivery, health care, professional services, e-commerce platforms, travel and hospitality, content and media services. It proposes establishment of Gig Workers' Welfare Board to ensure the well-being of gig workers, the setting up of a social security fund for platform-based gig workers with contributions from aggregators, 14-day termination notice with reasons in writing, and setting up a grievance redressal mechanism. The IAMAI contended that the proposed levy on gig workers could lead to a dual financial burden on aggregators, which were already operating at a loss. It also felt that mandatory registration and benefit implementation were challenging due to the dynamic nature of gig work. Nasscom stated that the minimum notice period for termination, algorithmic disclosures, and monitoring mechanisms were incompatible with the functioning of gig platforms, and the social security code created a parallel structure and would duplicate the central law Code on Social Security, 2020. It also sought clarity on the end-use of cess collected from aggregators and stated it lacked safeguards to ensure timely spending on social security schemes. Siddaramaiah said that a revised comprehensive bill covering all aspects of gig workers' welfare would be presented before the state cabinet for approval. Prominent clerics in Lucknow have voiced their disappointment with the Waqf amendments though didn't deny the possibility of corruption- a matter which the Comptroller and Auditor General of India has also flagged. Maulana Saif Abbas, the chairperson of the Markazzi Shia Chand community has said that if there is illegal occupation and corruption in Waqf properties, an agency like the Central Burau of Investigation (CBI) should look into it, rather than bringing in amendments. He is among other clerics who have said that they will be challenging the amendments in court. ALSO READ | MP Waqf Board chairman says amendments will give representation to most marginalised However, any investigation is easier said than done. In June 2020, the then minister of state for minority welfare, Mohsin Raza had ordered an inquiry into corruption in appointments in Waqf boards. Raza has also said that if Waqf claims are to be believed even Lucknows Charbagh Railway station is built on waqf land though there is no documentation to prove it. A state government investigation had revealed that there were 1.32 lakh properties registered by both- the Shia and the Sunni Waqf boards, on paper. Of these, more than 57,000 were government properties. Also, the real number of properties were much more than the official number. The report also found out that there are 40 such districts in the state where hundreds of properties are not registered in the records of Shia and Sunni Waqf Boards, but their name has not been transferred in the tehsil records. It also revealed that the boards were claiming government and enemy land as waqf. Shia cleric Maulana Kalbe Jawwad Naqvi said that peaceful opposition to the amendments shall continue and legal counsel sought. He said that the changes would help the government usurp waqf land. ALSO READ | After DMK, Congress to approach Supreme Court against controversial Waqf Amendment Bill Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali said that the recommendations given by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board and other bodies had not even been considered. He termed the amendments disappointing while asserting that 90 per cent of waqf properties were used as masjids, burial grounds and idgahs. The JD(U)'s decision to back the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Lok Sabha has triggered a rebellion within the party, with Muslim leaders ditching the party, after expressing disappointment over party chief and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's stance. JD(U) national general secretary and former Rajya Sabha member Ghulam Rasool Baliyawi and JD(U) MLC Ghulam Gaus resigned from the party's primary membership along with few other local leaders, accusing Nitish of betraying Muslims despite the community putting faith in him as the flag-bearer of secular ideology. The rebellion didn't come exactly as a surprise, considering that the Muslim leader and organisations had boycotted Nitish's Iftaar party last week as a mark of protest against the party's move. However, the JD(U) remains unperturbed as it claims none of these leaders held any stronghold within the party of the people. VIDEO | Bihar: Jamui Minority Pradesh secretary Shah Nawaz Malik resigns from JD(U) over Waqf (Amendment) Bill. Here's what he said: "It is unfortunate that Bihar CM Nitish Kumar has supported the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and I resign from the party because of this. All Muslims pic.twitter.com/WeZ96Fs294 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 3, 2025 The rebellion, many political analysts believe, is unlikely to have any impact in the upcoming Assembly elections too, as the Muslim community had been drifting away from JD(U) ever since he joined hands with the BJP in 2017 to form Mahagadbandhan. Despite this, the JD(U) won 16 out of the 17 seats it contested in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The JD(U) also managed to retain power in the 2020 Assembly elections. Though Nitish had fielded 11 Muslim candidates then, none won, forcing Nitish to give the Muslim quota in his Cabinet to LJP's Jama Khan. The recent Lok Sabha elections also saw the JD(U) sweeping the state. Even the JD(U) top brass are aware that 'Muslims do not vote for JDU.' MP Devesh Chandra Thakur too said 'they did not get votes from Yadavs and Muslims.' Interestingly, even the Opposition RJ(D) is unlikely to benefit from Muslims straying from JD(U). During the last Assembly elections, the RJD did not gain much despite the strong Muslim-Yadav axis, even facing defeat in many Muslim and Yadav-dominated areas. In the 2020 elections where Muslims parted ways with JD(U), the RJD only got 23.2 per cent votes. On the other hand, the Waqf Bill could trigger polarisation in the Muslim votes with Owaisi's AIMIM and Prashant Kishore's Jan Suraj managing to make inroads in Bihar. This could take away votes that could have otherwise gone into RJD. A former senior officer with Israel's internal security agency has said that he "salutes" Qatar for how it managed to infiltrate Israel. Shin Bet senior official Ilan Segev's statement comes as the QatarGate scandal rocks Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu's two aides were implicated recently for allegedly accepting money from Doha to promote a positive image of the country in Israel. "I salute the Qatari intelligence organisations that managed to infiltrate us with an incredible recruitment of two agents," Segev took a sharp jibe at the event in an interview with local radio 103FM. The PM's longtime media consultant Jonatan Urich and former spokesman Eli Feldstein have been implicated in the scandal which has rocked Israel, especially since Qatar is considered a patron of Hamas. He accused Urich and Felstein of working directly for Qatar and explained how it worked. "In the recruitment of an agent, there are stages: first, identifying the target, which was the Prime Minister's office," Segev said. Segev said Qatar then identified the target for recruitment, which was to "establish contact, activation and cover." "I ask a simple question: out of all of the advisors and lobbyists in the world, how did Qatar happen to find two in the Prime Ministers office? Can someone explain that to me?" he added. He stressed the dangers posed by Qatari infiltrators, calling it an enemy state. "Qatar is an enemy state. The strength we witnessed from Hamas on October 7 can only be attributed to one country, and that is Qatar. Anyone who helps my enemy expand in this way is an enemy state." The court documents state that Urich and an American lobbyist struck a business connection to positively promote Qatar and spread negative messages about Egypt, a claim denied by Qatar. Doha also issued a statement on Thursday, denying it funded a disinformation campaign aimed at discrediting Egypts role in negotiations to free Israelis held hostage in Gaza. The State of Qatar affirms that these allegations are baseless and serve only the agendas of those who seek to sabotage the mediation efforts and undermine relations between nations, it added. Meanwhile, an Israel court has ordered that Urich, would remain in police custody until Monday while Feldstein should indeed be sent to house arrest. Feldstein is also at the heart of another scandal for allegedly leaking a highly classified document ostensibly detailing Hamass priorities and tactics in hostage negotiations to Germanys Bild newspaper. The US Senate overwhelmingly rejected last night two resolutions proposed by Senator Bernie Sanders (Independent-Vermont) to stop arms sales worth $8.8 billion to Israel. The 82-15 and 83-15 margins demonstrated the enduring bipartisan support for Israel in the US Congress, despite growing concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. These resolutions, targeting the sale of massive bombs and offensive military equipment, however, also highlighted a deepening divide within the Democratic Party over US policy towards Israels actions in the region. It has now been 30 days with NO humanitarian aid getting into Gaza. No food, no water, no medicine, no fuel. That is barbaric. The U.S. must end our complicity in these atrocities. pic.twitter.com/Ix3IVrDHNg Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) April 3, 2025 The votes came as Israel continues to bombard Gaza and has imposed a suspension of humanitarian aid, leaving civilians, particularly children, vulnerable to malnutrition and starvation. Sanders, in an impassioned plea, condemned the blockade, noting, No food, no water, no medicine, no fuel has reached Gaza for over a month. Israel justifies this suspension as leverage in ceasefire negotiations with Hamas, yet it has triggered one of the wars largest mass displacements, with hundreds of thousands fleeing Rafah as Israeli forces advance to establish a new security zones. Despite the resolutions predictable failuregiven the Republican Senate majority and limited Democratic dissentthey served as a barometer of shifting sentiment. Fifteen Democratic Senators, including Richard Durbin (Illinois), Elizabeth Warren (Massachusetts) and Tim Kaine (Virginia), supported Sanders, but that number was down from 19 who backed a similar measure in November 2024. Notable vote-switchers included Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, both of Georgia, possibly eyeing tough 2026 re-elections, alongside Jeanne Shaheen (New Hampshire) and Angus King (Maine). Senator Tammy Baldwin (Wisconsin) opted for present, avoiding a firm stance. Those in opposition, led by Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman James Risch, framed the resolutions as a betrayal of Israel, a key ally, at a critical juncture. No Republicans backed Sanders, and several Democrats up for re-election in 2026, such as Cory Booker (New Jersey) and Mark Warner (Virginia), voted no, wary of backlash from peo-Israel groups. Meanwhile, President Trump, in his second term, has reversed Biden-era limits on arms to Israel, expediting sales worth billions in February 2025. Though US law allows Congress to halt weapons sales via resolutions of disapproval, none has ever overcome a presidential veto. Sanderss efforts, while symbolic, aim to pressure both Israel and the US to prioritise civilian protection. The vote reveals a Congress that is still instinctively pro-Israel, even as Gazas plight intensifies internal Democratic division. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. We must optimize our priorities, policies, and investments amid the current reality of the global energy market, Azerbaijan's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said at the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting, Trend reports. According to him, despite geopolitical tensions and market volatility, natural gas remains the cornerstone of energy security, a strategic asset, and will remain a central component of energy for a long time to come. "This requires investments in gas fields and infrastructure. We must make quick decisions, taking into account the urgent reality. Otherwise, the provision of the necessary supply volumes will generally fail. There is another truth: there is no alternative to diversifying to ensure sustainable energy security. Therefore, obtaining energy volumes from various sources and routes is not only a fundamental guarantee of energy security and independence, but also important for Europe. This issue must remain a constant priority and be considered at the most important moments. As for the importance of Azerbaijani gas, the Southern Gas Corridor is a strategic asset for Europe and is an integral part of our plans. In recent years, Azerbaijan has not only maintained its position as a reliable partner, but also significantly expanded its geography," the minister added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Yale Law School has terminated the contract of Helyeh Doutaghi, a 30-year-old Iranian scholar and vocal critic of Israel, accusing her of failing to cooperate in a probe into her alleged ties to a group labelled a sham charity by the US government. Doutaghi, who served as an associate research scholar and deputy director of the Law and Political Economy Project, was sacked on March 28 after weeks of declining to attend in-person interviews regarding her possible connection to the Samidoun Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network. The US and Canada designated Samidoun in October as a front for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a recognised terrorist organisation. The university pointed to a 2022 Samidoun website post identifying Doutaghi as a member, though she insists this pre-dates the groups terror designation and denies any current involvement. Yale spokesperson Alden Ferro stated that Doutaghi repeatedly refused requests to meet with her lawyer present to address serious allegations, including whether she had engaged with entities on the US Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons list. Her short-term role was already due to end this month, but her dismissal was immediate due to her alleged non-cooperation. Doutaghi, appointed to her Yale position in October 2023, disputes the claims, arguing she offered multiple times to respond in writingoffers Yale rejected. She views her termination as retaliation for her outspoken stance against the Gaza war, accusing the university of bowing to pressure from the Trump administration to curb antisemitism on campuses. The assertion that I refused to cooperate is utterly false, she said in an email, framing Yales actions as an attack on her free speech. The controversy erupted after Yale placed her on administrative leave on March 4, following reports by The Jewish Onliner alleging her Samidoun ties. On March 12, Doutaghi took to X, decrying the accusations as AI-fabricated and a violation of her constitutional rights, academic freedom and due process. Her lawyer, Eric Lee, echoed this, claiming Yale was yielding to a Trump-led crackdown on campus dissent. Yales investigation relied on independently reviewed materials, including the Samidoun post, but Doutaghi maintains no evidence links her to prohibited activities. Her academic work, rooted in Third World Approaches to International Law, critiques sanctions and political economy, according to her bio on the Palestine Center for Public Policy website. Before Yale, she taught social justice and human rights at Carleton University. The sacking coincides with heightened American efforts to tackle antisemitism at Ivy League institutions, with the Trump administration vowing to quell pro-Hamas intimidation and investigate anti-Jewish bias. Several visa-holding students have filed lawsuits alleging First Amendment breaches. Yale, which faced anti-Israel protests and a graduation walkout last year, insists its decision was procedural, not political. On Friday, United States President Donald Trump responded to China's decision to impose an additional 34% tariff on all American goods, asserting that "they cannot afford to do it." Trump took to Truth Social, stating, "China played it wrong, they panicked - The one thing they cannot afford to do!" Tariff War Incoming? Trump says every country is calling to negotiate after his tariff push. If this escalates, markets could face serious volatility just like in 2018. Stocks and crypto might feel the heat. China hits back with a 34% tariff on US goods right after pic.twitter.com/EYHXgvWI5j Junaid Dar (@JunaidDar85) April 4, 2025 In retaliation to Trump's imposition of reciprocal tariffs, China announced on Friday that starting from April 10, it would apply an additional 34% tariff on all US goods. The finance ministry of Beijing confirmed that all US imports would face this new levy, which would be added on top of the existing tariff rates. China had previously filed a complaint with the World Trade Organisation after the US imposed reciprocal tariffs on its trade partners. In response to the tariffs, Trump unveiled a sweeping trade policy package on Wednesday, which included a 34% tariff on Chinese imports. Also read | Which countries are hit hardest by Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs? Here's full list Additionally, Chinas commerce ministry declared that it would also ban the export of certain dual-use items to 16 U.S. entities, claiming that these entities activities could pose a threat to China's national security and interests. The ministry emphasised that no exporter should violate these regulations. Among the goods affected are seven types of rare earth metals, categorised as medium and heavy rare earths, subject to export controls. According to the US Office of the Trade Representative, the US had a trade deficit of $295.4 billion with China in 2024. Commenting on Chinas retaliatory move, Su Yue, principal economist for China at the Economist Intelligence Unit, suggested that Beijings response could be based on the belief that the US has limited options for escalating its policy toward China. This, in turn, could strengthen China's bargaining position in trade negotiations, reported PTI. With the addition of these new tariffs, the total tariffs on Chinese goods have now reached 54%, nearing the 60% level that Trump had previously threatened during his election campaign. Including the tariffs imposed during Trumps first term, the overall levies on Chinese goods have amounted to 79%. Shortly after assuming office this year, Trump implemented two rounds of 10% tariffs on Chinese goods, first in February and then in March. Ahead of the Paris rally, United States President Donald Trump has offered support to former French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen. On his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump wrote, "FREE MARINE LE PEN." He also dismissed the court's ruling against her as a "Witch Hunt of European Leftists." Also read | Who is Jordan Bardella? Focus shifts to Marine Le Pen's heir-apparent as her presidential hopes crashes A four-year prison sentence was awarded to the leader of France's far-right National Rally (RN) party Le Pen after finding her guilty of embezzling European Union funds. Frances far-right called for a Paris rally in support of Le Pen. The political landscape of France's 2027 presidential election shifted with the latest court ruling, where Le Pen was considered a front-runner. "I don't know Marine Le Pen, but I do appreciate how hard she worked for so many years. She suffered losses but kept on going, and now, just before what would be a Big Victory, they get her on a minor charge that she probably knew nothing about- Sounds like a 'bookkeeping' error to me," said Trump. WOW! Marine Le Pen goes NUCLEAR: The Deep State have banned me because nothing else has worked, but we will NOT allow them to steal this Election. We are going to defend ourselves and use all the means at our disposal to ensure I can run and were going to win. pic.twitter.com/3Y9Mm5QewN Cillian (@CilComLFC) April 1, 2025 Le Pen is facing a five-year ban on running for office with the latest ruling. Le Pen and her supporters accused the trial judges of interfering in democracy. The ruling is a "political decision" and the "rule of the law" had been completely violated," she said. Trump had compared Le Pen's situation to his own. The US president was indicted in the hush money case involving porn star Stormy Daniels. Earlier this week, Elon Musk had also extended support to Le Pen. "When the radical left can't win via democratic vote, they abuse the legal system to jail their opponents." Previously too Trump has vocally defended far-right politicians in Europe. Recently, the Romanian far-right candidate Calin Georgescu's presidential election ban was also criticised by Trump. Following reports of Russian interference in Georgescu's campaign, the court ruled to re-run the election. Earlier this week, my nanny Manju, who served my family for over seven decades passed away. 'Manj', as I called her, was a force to reckon with. A woman well ahead of her time, who despite no formal education, taught me important life lessons in the most simplified manner. The culture of a nanny and a governess dates back to the 19th century. While the role of the governess was focused on education, especially reading, writing and arithmetics, the nanny would focus on the wellbeing and care of a child. A few years ago, it was revealed that Vincent Van Goghs governess was his first art teacher. At the impressionable age of eight, Anna Birnie was hired at the Van Gogh household. While it remains unclear how much of an influence she had on Vincents art, he did study under her tutelage till he moved to a boarding school. Annas father was an artist, her teachings would have perhaps contributed to the development of his art practice in his formative years. His early sketches, some of which are now in the collections of private collectors, such as 'The Barn and Farmhouse', he drew for his fathers birthday were completed during her tenure as a governess. Artists have also drawn inspiration from the role of the governess and the nanny. The Governess, part of the Victoria & Albert Museum collection by Richard Redgrave, shows a governess gazing at the floor in deep thought. She holds in one hand a letter, perhaps one which stirred a mood of melancholy within her or a sense of longing. Redgraves sister Jane was a governess and could have been the inspiration or muse behind this work. Juxtaposing the gloominess is a depiction of children, jovial, at play in the background. The artist makes one question about the life of the governess and the loneliness of it. But then there are also those who found the chance for discovery and exploration with their role as a governess. Anna Tonelli was a Florentine painter but also served as the governess to the daughters of Lady Henrietta and her husband the British Governor of Madras (now Chennai). Maharaja Sarabhoji of Tanjore with a Minister, Anna Tonelli, Gouache on paper National Trust Images/John Hammond Anna embarked on a tour of South India with Henrietta, documenting the things she saw vividly and journaling her thoughts expressively while teaching the girls how to paint amongst other things. One of my absolute favourite works by Tonelli is a gouache on paper artwork featuring the Maharaja of Tanjore with a minister. Intricately detailed, the painting draws inspiration from the Tanjore School. The Railway, Edouard Manet National Gallery of Art, Washington Eva Gonzales and Edouard Manet, both explored the subject of the Nanny and Child. Gonzales work, painted a few years after Manets The Railway, is almost a second version of the same painting. A nanny is seated staring at the viewer, poised with a soft smile, the child is facing the back. There is a sense of ambiguity with both double portraits where one figure is present while the other is absent. Does it symbolise the importance of a nanny being present despite the absence of a child, busy or distracted? I wonder. Nanny and Child, Eva Gonzales National Gallery of Art, Washington While art history from a western lens sheds light on the governess and the nanny, their importance in a child's life historically, I do wonder why there were not any Indian artists popularising the relationship as their subject matter. Popular culture too has fictionalised the governess and the nanny as well as taken inspiration from real life stories. For example, movies such as 'The Sound of Music', 'Mary Poppins', 'Nanny McPhee' or the highly acclaimed television series of the 90s titled The Nanny have explored these roles with humour and love. As has Hindi cinema in films such as 'Swades'. Then there are also books such as 'The Royal Nanny', a historical fiction novel on British royalty as well as the play, 'The Queen's Nanny'. A play on Elizabeth IIs governess, which played last year at the Ensemble Theatre in Sydney. An entertaining, witty, as well as informative play tracing the story of Marion Crawford and the headlines it imploded recently. But Britain's royalty and their tryst with nannies and governesses has often made headlines. Be it the sensational news of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and the nanny who was fired within a few hours, or the much adored nanny Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. A few years ago, Queen Victorias scrapbook was being auctioned in Berlin for Euros 30,000. The scrapbook gives insight on the special bond between Victoria and her German governess, Baroness Louise Lehzen. Lehzen, who later became Victorias private secretary, had a beautiful relationship with the Queen. The 20-page scrapbook with 16 years of memorabilia carefully collected is testimony to that bond. While royalty in Britain continues to have their very private and trusted nannies and little has changed over the century, there were a number of women from countries such as India who were brought to England during the British reign to serve various aristocratic families in Britain. Many of these were abandoned or left to fend for themselves once the children were raised. In 1825, the Ayah's Home was founded. A safe haven for such ayahs, being home to at least 200 ayahs annually. Many claim the home would serve as a place for conversion to Christianity. Today, after many efforts, the building holds the prestigious blue plaque and the history of these ayahs is being diligently traced. Art historic documentation and pop culture give us a timeline to how the role of a governess and a nanny has changed and evolved. While the governess is now simply non-existent, the nanny continues to be integral, playing a role of duty and responsibility, love and compassion. The chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee criticized Pentagon mid-level leadership for what he said Thursday was a misguided plan to reduce the number of U.S. troops based in Europe. The Defense Department, however, has not made public any proposal to cut force levels there. There are some who believe now is the time to reduce drastically our military footprint in Europe, Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., said at a hearing with U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command military leadership. Im troubled at those deeply misguided and dangerous views held by some mid-level bureaucrats within the Defense Department, Wicker said. Theyve been working to pursue a U.S. retreat from Europe and theyve often been doing so without coordinating with the secretary of defense. It was not immediately clear what mid-level bureaucrats Wicker was talking about. The number of U.S. troops in Europe increased by about 20,000 under Democratic President Joe Biden in response to Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. They helped with training, logistics of weapons shipments and, in general, reassured allies on NATOs eastern flank that the United States would defend them. There have been roughly 100,000 troops there since, including the Navys 6th Fleet, as well as nuclear warheads. U.S. firepower ensures that NATOs ability to deter Russia is credible. NATO allies have expressed concern about any reduction of American troops or support in the region. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in Brussels this week seeking to reassure NATO allies about the American commitment to the alliance under Republican President Donald Trump. That military reassurance had been almost immediately put into question by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who used his first visit to NATO and the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in February to tell allies that the U.S. would be reassessing troop levels with an eye toward focusing more on China. Trump has tried to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine but so far that effort has faltered. (AP) New York Governor Kathy Hochuls common-sense proposal to increase penalties for masked agitators who harass or threaten violence is facing a surprising roadblock in the state Senate, where lawmakers are balkingout of what sources describe as heightened concern for student demonstrators, even as threats against Jewish communities continue to rise. The governors measure, which would target individuals who purposely conceal their faces while engaging in menacing behavior, was introduced during closed-door budget negotiations in a bid to finally take action on an issue long demanded by Jewish leaders, civil rights groups, and public safety advocates. But despite the bills narrow focus on violent behaviornot peaceful protestsources say many senators are privately rejecting it, worried it could impact the optics of recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations on college campuses, particularly after Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested anti-Israel student agitators. Its dead unless she forces it, one senator told the NY Post. In recent months, masked demonstrators have used anonymity as a shield while engaging in antisemitic harassment and intimidation. The Anti-Defamation League and NAACP have both backed the proposal, citing its importance in deterring violence and holding bad actors accountable. This isnt about silencing free speech, said one law enforcement official. Its about preventing individuals from hiding their identities while threatening others. Governor Hochul first floated the policy last year but omitted it from her public remarks in January, instead attempting to work it into the budget dealjust as she has done with successful policies in the past. Her approach, she explained, is part of a deliberate and strategic push to ensure controversial but necessary laws make it to the finish line. State Sen. James Skoufis, the bills sponsor, remains confident the proposal can be saved with minor adjustments. Its still a live bill, he told The Post. If we can get the lions share of the proposal, Id happily support it. Opponents claim the measure would chill protest. But advocates argue the law draws a clear line: peaceful demonstration is protected, violent intimidationespecially while maskedis not. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) A Brooklyn woman who described herself as haunted inside was arraigned Thursday from her hospital bed on manslaughter charges following the high-speed crash that left a Jewish mother and two young daughters dead and a young boy fighting for his life. Miriam Yarimi, 32, a wigmaker with a troubling history and a social media trail riddled with paranoia, was behind the wheel of a 2023 Audi A3 when she barreled through a red light on Ocean Parkway at more than double the speed limit. Her car slammed into a Toyota Camry Uber, flipped, and struck the Saada family as they crossed the street killing Natasha Saada, 35, and her daughters Diana, 8, and Debra, 5 AH. Their 4-year-old son, Philip, remains hospitalized in critical condition after losing a kidney. Yarimi, who appeared for her arraignment via video from NYU Langone HospitalBrooklyn, wore a yellow hospital gown and sat with her hair neatly trimmed, seemingly composed a stark contrast to the unhinged and erratic statements she allegedly made after the crash. The devils in my eyes, she reportedly told police. Im haunted inside I need CT scans in my eyes. I need to get scanning done now. According to prosecutors, Yarimi had to be restrained at the hospital, where she shouted, Take me out of these cuffs! Why cant you uncuff me? I am a wigmaker! She continued rambling about her daughter who was in New Jersey at the time and refused to speak further with police after demanding a lawyer. Yarimis apparent obsession with speed was no secret. A former acquaintance described her as having a need for speed, and her social media is littered with cryptic, conspiratorial posts including claims that a celebrity was assassinated by the CIA and that a hidden camera had been placed in her Midwood apartment bathroom. Her history with law enforcement is equally turbulent. Just months ago, Yarimi won a $2 million settlement from the city after alleging that she had been repeatedly assaulted by a now-former NYPD officer starting at the age of 14. More recently, she filed a $5 million notice of claim accusing the NYPD of manhandling her during a psychiatric evaluation in October. She livestreamed that confrontation on Instagram. Despite her silence during Thursdays court appearance speaking only to acknowledge questions from Judge Jevet Johnson the weight of the charges against her was unmistakable. Yarimi faces a battery of counts, including manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, reckless endangerment, assault, and numerous traffic violations. She was remanded without bail. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Friday. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) In the chaotic power vacuum that followed President Joe Bidens stunning exit from the 2024 race, a behind-the-scenes battle erupted one that pitted two of the Democratic Partys most recognizable figures against each other: Kamala Harris and Barack Obama. According to the bombshell new book Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House by veteran political reporters Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes, former Vice President Kamala Harris was very annoyed with Obama as she raced toward clinching the Democratic nomination only to find her partys most iconic living figure missing in action. As the hours rolled by, and it became clear that she was well on her way to seizing the nomination by storm, Obamas opposition to her grew more confounding, the book reports. Harris was very annoyed with him, according to a confidant. They had plenty of donors and political allies in common. The rest of the party threw in with her. Where was Obama? The answer, it turns out, was that Obama didnt want her to run and wasnt afraid to quietly work against her rise. The former president, the authors reveal, did not believe Harris could beat Donald Trump. He feared she lacked the political strength to unify the party and capture the general electorate. And so, even as the Democratic establishment coalesced behind her, Obama began exploring ways to stop her momentum floating the idea of an open convention or a mini-primary to find an alternative nominee. President Obama absolutely did not think that Joe Biden should continue, Allen told MSNBC in a Tuesday interview. And he also didnt want Kamala Harris to be the replacement for Biden. He did not have faith in her ability to win the election. But once it became clear that Harris had the wind at her back, Obama was faced with a dilemma: risk fracturing the party or fall in line. According to the book, Obama eventually recognized that his actions against Biden and Harris could diminish him in the eyes of Democratic elites. A person close to him admitted, there was a little bit of mending that had to be done. Obama waited five days after Biden dropped out to formally endorse Harris an eternity in modern political warfare. And even that support came after a delicate, almost theatrical negotiation. Concerned about campaign cash, Harriss team wanted maximum impact from Obamas blessing. In the end, they staged a video of Barack and Michelle Obama calling Harris with Harris pretending to be surprised. To seem real, Harris had to fake surprise and enthusiasm about what should have been an obvious endorsement from both Obamas, the book says. It took days of intense negotiations to strike a deal on the simplest act in politics This was typical [garbage]. Still, Harris ultimately accepted the terms understanding that in the battle against Trump, optics of unity were paramount. But the authors note that the quality and authenticity of the endorsement took a back seat. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The Pentagons acting inspector general announced Thursday that he would review Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths use of the Signal messaging app to convey plans for a military strike against Houthi militants in Yemen. The review will also look at other defense officials use of the publicly available encrypted app, which is not able to handle classified material and is not part of the Defense Departments secure communications network. Hegseths use of the app came to light when a journalist, Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic, was inadvertently added to a Signal text chain by national security adviser Mike Waltz. The chain included Hegseth, Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and others, brought together to discuss March 15 military operations against the Iran-backed Houthis. The objective of this evaluation is to determine the extent to which the Secretary of Defense and other DoD personnel complied with DoD policies and procedures for the use of a commercial messaging application for official business, the acting inspector general, Steven Stebbins, said in a notification letter to Hegseth. The letter also said his office will review compliance with classification and records retention requirements. Hegseth and other members of the Trump administration are required by law to archive their official conversations, and it is not clear if copies of the discussions were forwarded to an official email so they could be permanently captured for federal records keeping. The Pentagon referred all questions to the inspector generals office, citing the ongoing investigation. In the chain, Hegseth provided the exact timings of warplane launches and when bombs would drop before the men and women carrying out those attacks on behalf of the United States were airborne. The review was launched at the request of Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed, the committees top Democrat. In congressional hearings, Democratic lawmakers have expressed concern about the use of Signal and pressed military officers on whether they would find it appropriate to use the commercial app to discuss military operations. Both current and former military officials have said the level of detail Hegseth shared on Signal most likely would have been classified. The Trump administration has insisted no classified information was shared. Waltz is fighting back against calls for his ouster and, so far, President Donald Trump has said he stands by his national security adviser. On Thursday, Trump fired several members of Waltzs staff after far-right activist Laura Loomer urged the president to purge staffers she deemed insufficiently loyal to his Make America Great Again agenda, several people familiar with the matter said. In his Senate confirmation hearing Tuesday, Trumps nominee for chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Lt. Gen. Dan Caine, would not say whether the officials should have used a more secure communications system to discuss the attack plans. What I will say is we should always preserve the element of surprise, Caine told senators. (AP) BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. We are starting to implement mega-initiatives, within which Azerbaijan and Central Asia will export green energy from the local wind power plants to Europe, the country's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said at the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting, Trend reports. According to him, last year, natural gas accounted for 13 percent of electricity generation in the EU. "In some countries, this figure has reached 35-40 percent. As for the Green Energy Corridors, the Caspian Sea-Black Sea-Europe, Central Asia-Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan-Turkiye, and Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkiye-Bulgaria corridors are strategic projects that serve the diversification of Europe's energy supply. Regarding the technical justification of the corridor, we would like to say that a joint enterprise has been established in this regard. This is a joint enterprise between the Central Asia-Azerbaijan Energy Corridor. The Asian Development Bank, as well as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, have started financing. There are two potential export routes. In this context, we would like to emphasize that a memorandum of understanding on electricity cooperation between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, and Bulgaria should be signed. We are confident that the Southern Gas Corridor will become a platform for large-scale cooperation. Our joint efforts will bring results in the new phase and open new opportunities for energy security," the minister added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Former Vice President Mike Pence will receive the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award for his refusal to go along with President Donald Trumps efforts to remain in office after losing the 2020 election, Kennedys family announced Thursday. The award recognizes Pence for putting his life and career on the line to ensure the constitutional transfer of presidential power on Jan. 6, 2021, the JFK Library Foundation said. Trump pressured Pence to reject election results from swing states where the Republican president falsely claimed the vote was marred by fraud. Pence refused, saying he lacked such authority. When a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol, some chanted that they wanted to hang Mike Pence. Pence was whisked away by Secret Service agents, narrowly avoiding a confrontation with the rioters. Mike Pence didnt have the courage to do what should have been done to protect our Country and our Constitution, giving States a chance to certify a corrected set of facts, not the fraudulent or inaccurate ones which they were asked to previously certify, Trump wrote at the time on X, formerly Twitter, as rioters moved through the Capitol and Pence was in hiding with his family, aides and security detail inside the building. Pence rejected the Secret Services advice that he leave the Capitol, staying to continue the ceremonial election certification of Democrat Joe Bidens presidential election victory once rioters were cleared. Two years ago, Pence said Trumps reckless words endangered my family. The Profile in Courage Award, named for a book Kennedy published in 1957, before he became president, honors public officials who take principled stands despite the potential political or personal consequences. His decision is an example of President Kennedys belief that an act of political courage can change the course of history, Caroline Kennedy and Jack Schlossberg, JFKs daughter and grandson, said in a statement. Pence said in a statement that hes deeply humbled and honored to get the award. I have been inspired by the life and words of President John F. Kennedy since my youth and am honored to join the company of so many distinguished Americans who have received this recognition in the past, Pence said. The award will be presented on May 4 at the JFK library in Boston. (AP) Yale Law School has fired an Iranian scholar, accusing her of refusing to cooperate as it probed allegations that she is involved with a group that the U.S. calls a sham charity for a designated terrorist organization. But Helyeh Doutaghi, an outspoken critic of Israel who worked at Yale on a visa as an associate research scholar and deputy director of the schools Law and Political Economy Project, denies being uncooperative. She believes she was fired because of her criticism of the war in Gaza, as colleges around the country face financial pressure to crack down on antisemitism from the Trump administration. The school said in a statement that Doutaghi, 30, was terminated on March 28 after refusing for several weeks to appear in person to answer questions about serious allegations that included a possible connection to the Samidoun Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network which the U.S. and Canada designated in October as a sham charity that serves as an international fundraiser for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) terrorist organization. Yale cited a posting on Samidouns website that it says identified Doutaghi as a member of the group among the materials it was reviewing. Samidoun did not return an email message seeking comment. Doutaghi, however, said that posting was from 2022 when Samidoun wasnt designated as a terror-supporting group, and she said Yale had not produced any evidence that she was involved in such a group. Another webpage listed Doutaghi as a speaker in an online panel discussion in October 2024 sponsored by Samidoun and other groups. She said she did not take part in that event because it was canceled or postponed and Samidoun was not the main organizer of the discussion. Asked by The Associated Press if she was a member of Samidoun or affiliated with it in some other way, she would only say that she is not involved in any group that violates U.S. law. Doutaghi and her lawyer, Eric Lee, said they offered to answer Yales questions about her affiliations in writing. Doutaghi said her concerns about being detained and deported were a factor in not wanting to appear in person. This has become part of the fascism that is unfolding in this country, that people who dare to speak up against genocide and the U.S. support for it and complicity in it, they have to expect to pay the price with their careers, with their livelihoods, with their jobs, students with their degrees, as weve seen at Columbia, weve seen at Cornell and elsewhere, she said in a phone interview, referring to pro-Palestinian students at those schools who have been targeted for deportation. (AP) In a landmark display of coordination and partnership, the Miami-Dade Sheriffs Officeunder the leadership of Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutzhosted its first-ever Pre-Passover security briefing, bringing together more than 160 members of law enforcement, elected officials, and Jewish community leaders from across South Florida. Speaking to YWN, Rabbi Mark Rosenberg, Senior Advisor and Chief Chaplain to the Sheriff, emphasized the significance of the meeting. Weve held holiday briefings for many years, but this was the first time the Miami-Dade Sheriffs Office itself hosted it, Rabbi Rosenberg said. With so many Jewish families traveling to Florida for Passover and increased activity in shuls, hotels, and neighborhoods, its critical that all agencies are aligned and ready to respond to any situation that may arise. Rabbi Rosenberg, who also serves as the Director of Chesed Shel Emes (CSE) of Florida and is Chief Chaplain for the Florida Highway Patrol and FDLE, noted the long-standing trusted relationship between CSE and law enforcement across the state. The Sheriff has been attending these meetings for over a decade, and she has always assured the safety of the communitynot only year-round but especially during the holidays. But now, for the first time in history, Miami-Dade has an elected Sheriff. As Sheriff of the largest county in Florida, she is able to continue ensuring the safety of the Jewish community while also hosting such vital meetings and having the influence to implement security measures across the entire county. The meeting brought together representatives from federal, state, and local law enforcement, including the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Marshals, ATF, Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the United States Attorneys Office, the Miami-Dade County District Attorneys Office, and the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiners Office. Numerous local departments were also present, including Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, Surfside, Bal Harbour, Sunny Isles Beach, Sweetwater, North Bay Village, and others. Also in attendance were Jewish leaders such as Rabbi Korfhead Rabbi of all Florida Chabad and a Chaplain to the Miami-Dade Sheriffs Officeand Israels Consul General in Miami, Maor Elbaz-Starinsky. Miami-Dade County Commissioner Micky Steinberg, who represents a district with one of the largest Jewish populations in the county, participated as well. Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz told YWN, Wednesdays meeting was extremely meaningful. It allowed us to bring law enforcement from every level into one room and ensure theyre all aware of whats needed to keep the Jewish community safe over the holiday. This is about ensuring that everyone feels protected. Rabbi Rosenberg distributed CSE-branded security materials, including detailed booklets outlining local synagogues and programs, and led a comprehensive presentation on holiday preparedness. Topics covered included crowd management, security outside synagogues, pedestrian safety, and response coordination in the event of an emergency. We reviewed every possible scenario, said Rabbi Rosenberg. Especially in light of the ongoing rise in antisemitism and global security concerns since October 7, its more important than ever that law enforcement be proactive, not just reactive. He added, I am extremely grateful to Sheriff Rosie for hosting such an unbelievable event. Im also deeply thankfuland the entire Jewish community is appreciativeof the ongoing sensitivity and dedication that law enforcement across the state shows to the Jewish community during the holiday season and throughout Passover. These men and women put their lives at risk every day, and especially during the holidays, and we are tremendously grateful for what they do. The Sheriff concluded with a personal message: On behalf of myself, Rabbi Mark Rosenberg, and the entire Miami-Dade Sheriffs Office, we wish the Jewish community a safe, peaceful, and joyous Passover. Your browser does not support the video tag. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The Trump administration has fired Gen. Timothy Haugh, Director of the National Security Agency (NSA), and Wendy Noble, the agencys civilian Deputy Director. A senior defense official confirmed the dismissals to Fox News early Friday, though the reasons behind the firings remain unclear. Haugh, who also served as the head of U.S. Cyber Command, was dismissed from that position as well. Noble has reportedly been reassigned to the office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence, according to The Washington Post, which first broke the news Thursday evening. Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT), ranking member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, called Haughs firing deeply disturbing, praising him as an honest and forthright leader committed to the law and national security. I fear those are precisely the qualities that could lead to his firing in this administration, Himes said in a statement. He demanded an immediate explanation for the decision. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, echoed the concern, describing the firing as astonishing. General Haugh has served our country in uniform, with honor and distinction, for more than 30 years, Warner said. At a time when the United States is facing unprecedented cyber threats, as the Salt Typhoon cyberattack from China has so clearly underscored, how does firing him make Americans any safer? Warner also criticized Trump for allegedly dismissing Haugh while failing to hold any member of his team accountable for leaking classified information on a commercial messaging app. He further suggested the president is taking national security cues from far-right activist Laura Loomer, who has reportedly presented Trump with a list of allegedly disloyal National Security Council (NSC) staff. While several NSC employees were fired Thursday, Trump has denied that Loomer had any involvement in those dismissals. As of Friday morning, the White House has not provided a public explanation for the firings of Haugh and Noble. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The IDF and Shin Bet have successfully eliminated Mohammed Hassan Mohammed Awad, a senior military commander in the Palestinian Mujahideen terrorist organization. He is believed to have personally overseen the abductions of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, and was most likely involved in their horrific murders. Mohammed Awad played a central role in the brutal October 7th massacre, infiltrating the Israeli community of Nir Oz multiple times during the attack. Additionally, Awad was responsible for the abduction and burial of Gad and Judi Lynn Weinstein, as well as the kidnapping of several Thai citizens during the same assault. As a high-ranking operative in the Palestinian Mujahideen, a lesser-known but deadly terrorist group operating in Gaza, Awad remained active in orchestrating terror activities until his elimination. His efforts included recruiting operatives in Judea, Samaria, and within Israel to plan and execute attacks against Israeli civilians and security forces. Throughout the ongoing war, Awad and his organization were directly involved in carrying out terrorist operations targeting both the State of Israel and IDF troops in the Gaza Strip. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The Metropolitan Police revealed on Thursday that two men suspected of being Hezbollah operatives were arrested earlier this week in connection with a sweeping investigation into terrorist activity and funding. The suspects, aged 39 and 35, were apprehended in coordinated operations by the Mets elite Counter Terrorism Command in west London. The older suspect is accused of being deeply involved in the planning of terrorist acts, membership in the proscribed organization, and financing terrorism. The younger man, also from west London, was arrested solely on suspicion of membership in the Lebanese terror group. The arrests were part of a wider operation that included searches at five locations across the region: two in northwest London, and one each in west London, southwest London, and Essex. Authorities have not disclosed what was uncovered during the raids. Despite the gravity of the charges, both men have been released on bail and are due in court in mid-Julya decision that has sparked sharp criticism and growing public concern. The Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) condemned the bail decision, warning that it could pose a danger to Londoners. Hezbollah is a proscribed antisemitic genocidal terror group, which seeks the murder of all Jews, and has carried out terrorist attacks against Jews all over the worldfrom Burgas to Buenos Aires, the organization said. The CAA called on Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to intervene and ensure the public is protected, citing a 2015 discovery of three metric tonnes of Hezbollah explosives hidden in London as a sobering precedent. Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met Counter Terrorism Command, sought to calm fears, saying that there is currently no indication of an imminent threat to the public. However, he emphasized that the investigationspanning both the UK and overseasis active and ongoing. Terrorism and terrorists have a global reach and impact, Murphy said. The activities of terrorist groups overseas can harm communities here in the UK as well as cause devastation abroad. The Community Security Trust (CST), a Jewish security organization, echoed concerns, stating on Tuesday that it has long warned about the global threat posed by Hezbollah and similar groups. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The IDF and Shin Bet announced Thursday that they successfully struck a key Hamas command and control center in Jabaliaeliminating multiple high-ranking terrorists, including individuals directly involved in the October 7 massacre. The strike, carried out on Wednesday, targeted a central hub used by Hamas both for strategic coordination and as a gathering place for senior operatives. Among those killed was Shadi Diab Abd Al-Hamid Falouji, a terrorist from Hamas East Jabalia Battalion who infiltrated Israeli territory and took part in the brutal attacks of October 7. The operation also took out several other high-value targets: Mohammed Sharif , a member of Hamas General Security Apparatus, who played a key role in the propagandistic hostage-release ceremony involving abducted Israeli Agam Berger. , a member of Hamas General Security Apparatus, who played a key role in the propagandistic hostage-release ceremony involving abducted Israeli Agam Berger. Mohammed Hani Atiya Daour , commander of Hamas Rocket and Mortar Squad, responsible for orchestrating rocket barrages on Israeli civilians. , commander of Hamas Rocket and Mortar Squad, responsible for orchestrating rocket barrages on Israeli civilians. Mohammed Issa Mahmoud Askari, a dual-role terrorist in Hamas Northern Brigade Rocket Unit and its General Security Apparatus. Israeli security officials emphasized that extensive precautions were taken to minimize civilian harm. Aerial surveillance and layered intelligence assessments were employed before the strike to prevent collateral damage, the IDF said in a statement. The military stressed that Hamas continues to brazenly violate international law by embedding its operations in civilian infrastructure and using the population of Gaza as human shields. This operation is part of our ongoing effort to dismantle Hamas military capabilities and protect the citizens of Israel, the statement concluded. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) A firestorm of outrage has erupted across social media after veteran 60 Minutes host Lesley Stahl asked a question that many are calling shockingand even sympathetic to terroristsduring a Sunday night segment with American-Israeli hostage Keith Siegel, recently released from nearly 500 days in Hamas captivity. In the emotional interview, Siegel recounted being starved, beaten, and humiliated by his Hamas captors. He recalled how, after his wife Aviva was released, they became very mean and very cruel and violent. They were beating me and starving me. Stahl then posed the now-infamous question: Do you think they starved you on purpose, or they just didnt have food? Siegels response was unequivocal: No, I think they starved me, and they would often eat in front of me and not offer me food. The question ignited a wave of condemnation from pro-Israel voices, Jewish organizations, and former hostages advocates, who accused CBS and Stahl of providing cover for a genocidal terror group. She should ask the Nazis if they meant to starve the Jews in the Holocaust or didnt have enough aid, wrote Jewish journalist Ari Hoffman on X. Others, like the account Jews Fight Back, expressed disbelief: Lesley Stahl looked a Jewish hostage in the faceafter being starved, tortured, beaten, and dragged through helland asked if maybe Hamas didnt mean to starve him. Are you kidding me? Siegel was kidnapped on October 7, 2023, during the Hamas massacre in southern Israel. He spent 484 days in captivity under unimaginable conditionsconditions that included starvation, beatings, and psychological torture. His testimony included descriptions of being allowed to bathe only once a month and witnessing Hamas members assaulting female hostages. Despite the uproar, CBS News has yet to issue a response. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Asian equities haven't been the most fashionable in recent years, with their attraction tempered by strong US markets and weak confidence in a Chinese recovery. But this creates an opportunity for investors to seek out innovative companies operating in cutting edge technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) at lower valuations, say the managers of Schroder AsiaPacific Fund. This investment trust aims to achieve capital growth by investing primarily in the shares of companies in Asia, excluding the Middle East and Japan, together with the Far Eastern countries bordering the Pacific Ocean. Over the past five years to February 28 2025, the leading US stock market index, the S&P 500, has gained an average of 18.19 per cent annually, delivering impressive returns on the back of the powerhouse Magnificent Seven tech giant stocks, fuelled by investor excitement over the rise of AI. In comparison, the MSCI All Countries Asia excluding Japan index, which has 1,052 constituents across the continent, has delivered average annualised growth of 4.86 per cent over the same period. However, with the boon of outperformance has come higher US stock market valuations and increased global stock market concentration. Production hotspot: Taiwan is home to 18 per cent of global semiconductor production This has raised investors' concerns over putting all their eggs in the US stock market basket. For example, with the launch of China's DeepSeek AI in January, reportedly developed for just $6million, Nvidia saw $600billion drop off its market value overnight as investor confidence faltered. Asian equities, on the other hand, could offer better value while still benefitting from the AI boom, according to the managers of Schroder AsiaPacific Fund, Abbas Barkhordar and Richard Sennitt. Behind the scenes of the AI boom Asian tech players are an essential cog in the AI machine, largely due to Asia's dominance of the semiconductor manufacturing industry. The South Korean and Taiwanese governments, in particular, have heavily invested in semiconductor research and infrastructure. This has reached a point where the two countries alone now account for some 36 per cent of global semiconductor fabrication, according to Bernstein Research. With almost a third of its portfolio allocated to technology, Schroder AsiaPacific Fund has seen significant benefits from this dominance. AsiaPacific Fund holdings such as TSMC, Samsung Electronics and MediaTek are all examples of firms that have been able to cash in on the increasing demand for semiconductors. The investment trust has 40 analysts on the ground in six offices across Asia. TSMC, the fund's largest holding, is the producer of Nvidia's most advanced chips, and, partly as a result of this, is up 231 per cent over the past five years. AI isn't going away, that much is clear, but the attention surrounding it could cause investors to lose out on other promising tech fields. The key, according to Schroder AsiaPacific Fund's managers, is that semiconductor applications extend well beyond just AI, with uses in cloud computing, 5G networks and 'internet of things' technology. They say these chip producers are 'well positioned' to capitalise on the growing number of semiconductor applications. Despite the allure of AI, the fund remains diversified across its portfolio, but also within IT itself. For example, within the IT sector, Schroder AsiaPacific holds Indian IT services firm Infosys, which it says has a strong track record and balance sheet, as well as Taiwanese power electronics manufacturer Delta Electronics, which provides exposure to automation, EV components and renewables alongside more traditional areas of tech. Schroder AsiaPacific Fund is managed by Richard Sennitt (left) and Abbas Barkhordar The benefits of an active investing approach The huge gains made by the S&P 500 over the past few years have supported the popularity of passive index-tracking ETFs among investors. Due to the recent dominance of a concentrated big tech sector, many actively managed funds have underperformed index trackers if they aren't equally exposed to just a handful of big players. Yet, many professional investors may have good reason to avoid investing as much in the Magnificent Seven as needed to match the index. They could have concerns over valuations, see better opportunities elsewhere, or have a mandate to invest in different sectors or markets. Schroder AsiaPacific Fund's managers suggest that while recent experience in the well-researched US large cap market has made it hard for active funds to outperform in this area, in other geographies active funds are still a favourable investment choice. One strength of active funds in this region comes as a result of the diverse range of performances seen across Asia's markets. This was highlighted in a year of diverse performance in 2023 when the overall Asia Pacific market excluding Japan was flat. But Taiwan, Korea and India all saw market growth at 23 per cent, 16 per cent and 14 per cent each. Hong Kong, China and Thailand each saw double digit declines. Last year, as the MSCI Asia Ex Japan index grew 12.51 per cent in 2024, Taiwan's Taiex gained 29 per cent, India's Nifty 50 rose 9 per cent, whereas South Korea's Kospi declined 8 per cent. The inefficiency of the Asian markets, which Schroders says is due to a lack of research taking a long-term analytical perspective, means that its long-term approach with Asia-based analysts in place can offer an alternative view of the market. Abbas Barkhordar said: 'As active investors, we are focused on identifying Asian companies with quality characteristics. We look for businesses with strong management teams that generate good returns on capital, and that have a track record of making sensible capital allocation decisions. 'Many Asian businesses have been guilty of poor capital allocation decisions, or decisions which disadvantage the interests of minority shareholders, which have weighed on long-term shareholder returns. 'Corporate governance is therefore a key consideration for us and the consistent nature of our approach, with its focus on quality, should add value over the long-term, in our view.' Any reference to stocks/sectors/securities/regions in this article are for illustrative purposes only and not a recommendation to buy or sell. The FTSE 100 capped a torrid week with an even sharper decline on Friday afternoon after China unveiled retaliatory efforts against US tariffs. China, which is now facing a total of 54 per cent tariffs on exports to the US, plans to impose additional tariffs of 34 per cent on all US imports from 10 April. The latest escalation in the emerging trade war saw the blue chip index sink 5 per cent by close and decline 7 per cent since Monday. It means the FTSE 100 marked its worst day of trading since 27 March 2020. It finished at 8,054.98, having started the day at 8,474.74. Banking stocks plummeted, falling for a second consecutive day as investors become increasingly fearful of a tariff-driven recession. Natwest led the sector's FTSE 100 losses, falling 9 per cent, followed by Barclays with an 8 per cent decline. Also reflecting global growth concerns, mining stocks dropped as London copper posted its biggest weekly loss in nearly five months. China plans to impose additional tariffs of 34 per cent on all US imports from 10 April Bucking the trend, utilities gained and reached a six-month high. Utility firms are seen as a defensive investment and are often traded as a proxy for bonds. Investors flocked to the perceived safer haven of government bonds, driving down bond yields, which move in the opposite direction to prices. Short-dated gilt yields the interest paid on government debt fell sharply as investors continue to flood into safe haven assets. Two-year gilt yields were down 5 basis points to 3.95 per cent, while five-year yields were down 6bps to 4.03 per cent. Similar moves were seen in global equity markets, with shares trading lower in Europe, Asia and the US. Jason Hollands, managing director at Evelyn Partners, said: Over the coming weeks we can expect to see companies issue profit warnings as they model the impact [of tariffs] and analysts slashing their forecasts. It is hard to know how much further markets might fall before stabilising. As the both the real economy and the financial markets react to the uncertainty and upheaval prompted by President Trumps protectionism, and the nature of responses by US trade partners, investors need to find nerves of steel and avoid making rash decisions driven by fear. Also affecting sentiment, industry data showed Britain's construction industry shrank sharply last month, with civil engineering declining at the fastest rate since 2020 due to weak orders and a lack of new infrastructure work. Britain faces the lowest import duty rate of 10 per cent in Trump's latest tariff bombshell, but the Government has acknowledged the country's vulnerability to global economic headwinds. Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: The UK may appear to have been dealt a better hand in this round of tariffs, but its so interlinked with global trade, its set to be slammed by the harsh winds blowing through the global economy. Flash China's judicial and relevant authorities will strictly, and in accordance with the law, handle a case of suspected espionage activities conducted by Philippine nationals in China, foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Thursday. China's state security authorities said earlier in the day that it had recently discovered a case of suspected espionage, prompting the arrest of three Philippine nationals on spying charges. When asked to comment on the case, Guo said that China's judicial and relevant authorities will strictly handle the case in accordance with the law, and protect the lawful rights and interests of those involved. He said that recently the Philippines had concocted a series of so-called Chinese spy cases. "This is a typical act of stigmatization and politicization based on presumption of guilt in the absence of clear evidence. We firmly oppose that, and has lodged protests against the Philippines more than once," Guo said. China urges the Philippines to stop shadow-chasing and making false accusations, handle the cases concerning Chinese citizens in a just manner and in accordance with the law, and effectively protect the lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens in the Philippines, he said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The UK looks forward to working with Azerbaijan to ensure Europe's energy security, the UK Ambassador Fergus Auld wrote on X, Trend reports. "The 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council are important platforms for energy discussions. The UK appreciates Azerbaijan's reliable role in ensuring Europe's energy security at this difficult time and looks forward to working together," the diplomat said. Baku is hosting the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. The event is attended by representatives from 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, seven international financial institutions, and 42 energy companies. Ministers, deputy ministers, and other high-level officials are participating in the event. The program includes an opening session followed by a Ministerial Session, as well as plenary discussions on the Southern Gas Corridor's progress and future steps, as well as Green Energy Projects and Green Energy Corridors. Additionally, the 2nd Ministerial Meeting on the Green Electricity Transmission and Trade Project between Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Georgia, and Bulgaria is taking place, alongside an informal steering committee meeting on the Caspian-Black Sea-Europe Green Energy Corridor and an EU-Azerbaijan roundtable on offshore wind power development. Documents related to green energy are expected to be signed during the event. At the conclusion, a press conference will be held to discuss the outcomes of both the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. The Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council has been held regularly since February 2015. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Owning a second home is about to become a much more expensive pursuit, thanks to a barrage of tax increases imposed in recent months. Buyers will have to contend with higher stamp duty on second home purchases, a policy announced in the autumn budget, while those who already own a second home could see their council tax bill double. Since October last year, second home purchases in England have been subject to an additional 5 per cent stamp duty surcharge on top of existing rates. This means that someone looking to buy a holiday home in the countryside or along the coast, or a pied-a-terre in the city, will have to shell out more upfront tax in order to do so. Someone buying a second home for 500,000 can now expect to pay 40,000 in stamp duty, up from 27,500 before the autumn budget. Someone buying a 1million property will face a stamp duty bill of 93,750 while a 2million home will command 253,750. Before the changes made in the autumn budget last year, these same buyers would have paid 71,250 and 211,250. Second home tax: Higher stamp duty costs for those buyers combined with double council tax on those owning is likely to hit the second home market hard While the cost of buying has gone up, the cost of owning has also increased for most second homeowners. Three quarters of local authorities in England and Wales have introduced a 100 per cent council tax premium on second homes. Second homes for council tax purposes are defined as furnished properties where nobody lives, or where the owner has their main residence elsewhere. It means a second home owner in England paying the typical Band D council tax of 2,171 could soon see that rise to 4,342. Holiday hotspots such as Cornwall, Norfolk and Somerset are among those introducing the tax, in a bid to make homes more affordable for local people. For those who own second homes that are in a more expensive bracket, the costs could be astronomical. For example, someone who owns a Band H home in Salcombe - a second home hotspot in Devon - will see their council tax double from 4,716.42 to 9,432.84. Add that on top of maintenance, repairs and buildings insurance each year and it's easy to see why some will feel the cost is too much to bear. 'A target on their backs' Jonathan Hopper, chief executive of buying agents Garrington Property Finders thinks the extra taxes will put a lot of people off buying or owning a second property. 'Second home-owners, and those who aspire to be one, could be forgiven for feeling they've got a giant target painted on their backs,' says Hopper. 'Successive governments have tightened the tax thumbscrews, but the pressure has become unrelenting over the past six months. 'First came the jump in the stamp duty surcharge in October. Now second home-owners in England face the prospect of paying a 100 per cent council tax surcharge. 'This won't be a one-off tax on purchases, like stamp duty, but instead a doubling of the tax they pay year in, year out.' Holiday home: Hotspots like Salcombe in Devon will likely no longer be so attractive for second home buyers thanks to tax increases While the costs will be viewed as a mere drop in the ocean by the most wealthy in society, it is aspirational middle-class Britons that are likely to view the extra costs as a deal breaker. 'For the very wealthy this will be an annoyance, like a speeding ticket,' says Hopper. 'But for everyone else - including families with a "little place by the sea" and professionals with a pied-a-terre in the city - it's a serious threat to the dream of second home-ownership. 'It's far too soon to talk of the death of the second home, but such punitive tax rises will shrink the number of people willing or able to buy somewhere for the sheer love of it, rather than to live in year-round.' Some predict that further tax grabs could be around the corner, too. Hopper adds: 'Governments can get conditioned into hitting the same "soft target" each time they need to raise more tax, and second homes - which are seen as a luxury - could fall into this category. 'For a sense of just how far things could go, look at Scotland. The buyers of expensive second homes - worth 750,000 or more - north of the border pay an effective purchase tax rate of nearly 14.5 per cent, and this has had a chilling effect on some parts of the Scottish market. 'If the cost of buying, or even just owning, a second home is pushed out of reach for aspirational buyers, the market could end up being the sole preserve of the very wealthy.' 'Cut stamp duty for those with one house' Paula Higgins, chief executive of HomeOwners Alliance, points out that not every second home is a holiday property, and that others have them for more practical reasons. This includes people who are living between two places - for example the semi-retired, or commuters who need a place close to work during the week, as well as those who have inherited a home they don't want to live in full-time. However, she is more sceptical that the extra taxes spell the death of the second home. Pied-a-terre? The central London market is likely to suffer from extra stamp duty costs and council tax doubling in most local authorities 'There will always be demand but with the extra and ongoing costs the dream of owning another home will be out of reach for many,' says Higgins. 'In particular the second home tax may force people to sell a home they have inherited because they cannot afford to keep up the costs. 'The majority of councils have made use of the new flexibility to double council tax on second homes. 'Any further increase will need to be proposed nationally and I predict that this won't happen anytime soon.' Higgins also has another idea that would no doubt prove popular - to use the revenue from the increased stamp duty on second homes, to reduce it for those who are buying a property to live in. 'We have always campaigned to scrap stamp duty for anyone who is buying a home to live in,' she adds. 'The way to do this is to raise stamp duty for those investing in property, overseas investors and those buying a second home.' BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Electricity Cooperation will be signed between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, and Bulgaria, Azerbaijan's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said at the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting, Trend reports. "A memorandum of understanding on electricity cooperation between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye and Bulgaria should be signed here. We are confident that the Southern Gas Corridor will become a platform for large-scale cooperation. Our joint efforts will bear fruit in the new stage and open up new opportunities for energy security," he added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Turkiye attaches great importance to regional cooperation, the country's Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar, said at the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting, Trend reports. "Through Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan, TANAP, we have shown the importance of energy security for the entire region. We are ready to cooperate with Azerbaijan and other partners, as well as work in the field of green energy transmission. We are ready to fully utilize the potential of the Southern Gas Corridor. Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye and Bulgaria are working together on this project. We are confident that the Green Corridor will have a global position, and as Turkiye, we'll continue our support for the region and cooperation," the minister pointed out. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Photo: Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The current and planned projects between Azerbaijan and the EBRD were discussed, the Ministry of Finance told Trend. Azerbaijan's Minister of Finance Sahil Babayev met with the delegation led by Managing Director of the EBRD Sustainable Infrastructure Group Harry Boyd-Carpenter. Emphasizing the great importance Azerbaijan attaches to its relations with the EBRD, Babayev noted that with the bank's financial support, a number of projects have been implemented in both the public and private sectors in the country, focusing on the diversification of the economy, the development of public infrastructure, and the expansion of green energy projects. During the meeting, an exchange of views took place regarding the ongoing and planned projects. Carpenter noted that the EBRD's new country partnership strategy for Azerbaijan covering the period 2025-2030 has been approved, adding that the strategy aligns with Azerbaijan's national development goals. Highlighting the long-term and fruitful partnership with Azerbaijan, the EBRD official stated that the bank intends to continue supporting Azerbaijan's economy and mentioned that the country's economic potential creates additional opportunities for expanding bilateral relations. To note, the EBRD has been a longstanding partner in Azerbaijans development, having invested over 4 billion euros in 195 projects spanning sectors such as renewables, infrastructure, and connectivity. With this new strategy, the bank aims to further its impact, working alongside government efforts to foster reforms and improve governance, ensuring Azerbaijans future economic growth is both sustainable and inclusive. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel This criticism inadvertently reveals that so-called "grassroots" community journalists give far too much credit to mainstream media legacy . . . Consider . . . Activists arguing with dead-tree media demonstrates that they might not be as in touch with the electorate or the community as they contend given that fewer and fewer voters rely on the newspaper for political recommendations. Still . . . Their provocative pitch is worth considering . . . If only to dispute . . . Check-it: The Kansas City Stars editorial board, in their endorsement of the $800 million mega-jail proposal, spoke with the polished condescension of people who claim proximity to power as wisdom. As part of my Propaganda Watch column, I felt compelled to respond. After The Star met with a coalition of Black formerly incarcerated people, civil rights leaders, and community organizers (including myself)those who have lived, breathed, and survived the brutal system of incarcerationthey chose to describe dissension of the Jail Taxalso known as Question 1as passionate opposition. Passionate, as a euphemism for: well meaning, but you dont really understand. But to be clear: We do understanddeeply. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . We're late to this one but we just wanted to share because it's kinda fun and our readers might get a kick out of it . . . For those who haven't seen this local shout out . . . A bit about the narrator . . . Dave Hill is an American comedian, radio host, writer, musician and actor originally from Cleveland, Ohio. Even more backstory . . . "In May 2019, Hill was permanently banned from Twitter after he repeatedly responded to attacks from Trump supporters with jokes about having consensual sexual intercourse with their mothers and, in some cases, their fathers." Still . . . This one was recently shared our way but we didn't have time to pass it along until now. Just a quick funny for late night locals . . . Take a look via www.TonysKansasCity.com embed . . . Developing . . . This morning celeb, director, producer & hottie Syd starts our journey into local news by way of pop culture, community reporting and top headlines. Check TKC news gathering . . . Cowtown Cash Concerns Kansas City investors speak on worries as markets plummet Local investors who spoke with FOX4 all expressed hesitation and uncertainty, echoing what the stock market showed earlier in the day. Suburban Upscale Hopes Blue Springs City Council gives green light to two luxury apartment complexes, commercial space Two new luxury apartment complexes get the green light to build in Blue Springs. The city's director of development says this fills a gap in housing. They're Still Together?!?! Judge married to Kansas City Council member should recuse himself from plastics case | Opinion U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough is married to Councilwoman Andrea Bough, and he has shown past prejudice against the oil industry. Decrying Another Local Dump South Kansas City, Missouri, residents push back against decrepit 4-Acres Motel, Texas owner responds Residents of the Marlborough neighborhood in south Kansas City, Missouri, are expressing growing frustration over the deteriorating condition of the 4-Acres Motel. Kansas City Biz Talk 1 Million Cups relocating back to Kauffman Foundation, moving to in-house leadership After more than six years connecting entrepreneurs in Midtown, 1 Million Cups Kansas City is returning to its roots - relocating the weekly event series April 9 to the Kauffman Foundation Conference Center where the now-coast-to-coast morning meetup series first percolated. Unpacking Celeb Drama Sydney Sweeney And Glen Powell Dating Rumors Have Gone Wild - Here's A Breakdown The "Anyone But You" co-stars have been the subject of romance rumors even before their 2023 rom-com was released. GOP Considers MAGA Pullback Republicans weigh using the power of Congress to rein in Trump on tariffs The fallout from President Donald Trump's aggressive tariffs has spurred Congress into action, with a growing number of Republicans joining Democrats to express interest in using their power to restrain him. Hollywood Traveling Music Whoopi Goldberg signs off 'The View' with rallying call to anti-Trump 'resistance' "The View" co-host Whoopi Goldberg signed off Thursday's show with a rallying cry to the movement resisting President Trump, telling anti-Trump viewers they're "not alone." Tragic Stabbing Sparks Nationwide Conservative Outrage Texas high school football star Austin Metcalf stabbed in the heart, left to die in twin brother's arms at track meet: dad A Texas high school star athlete was stabbed in the heart and left to die in his loving twin brother's arms following a fight over a seat at a track meet. Morning Dive Redux Stocks fall again as Trump tariff jitters continue Traders are concerned the tariffs will increase prices and weigh on growth in the US and abroad. Not Interested In Game Of Chicken Exclusive: Turkey wants no confrontation with Israel in Syria, foreign minister says Turkey wants no confrontation with Israel in Syria after repeated Israeli attacks on military sites there undermined the new government's ability to deter threats, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told Reuters on Friday. Vlad's Stall Ball Debated Britain and France accuse Russia's Putin of delaying Ukraine ceasefire efforts Britain and France have accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of dragging his feet over Ukraine ceasefire talks and ramped up pressure on Moscow by insisting that he owes the United States an immediate answer. Seoul Man Upstaged South Korea court removes impeached President Yoon from office over martial law declaration South Korea must within 60 days hold a snap election to replace the impeached president, who also faces criminal charges. Old School Cinematic Collab Lindsay Lohan, Jamie Lee Curtis reunite for 'Freaky Friday' sequel promo at CinemaCon: 'A lot of love' Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis had an affectionate reunion while promoting their upcoming "Freaky Friday" sequel at CinemaCon in Las Vegas Thursday. TKC Sings Along With White Lady Probs Lola Young Scores First Alternative Airplay No. 1 With 'Messy' Lola Young's "Messy" reaches No. 1 on the Alternative Airplay chart. Midtown Brunch Debuts He started small, now Drue Stewart is bringing TikTok-famous food to former Westport Ale House "Bigger, better, crazier. Never settle," Drue Stewart said of bringing Holy Brunch KC to the heart of Westport. "The building had a dark cloud but we are going to bring new life to it." Soggy Springtime Starts . . . Wet and cold weekend Temperatures will drop near freezing early next week Lola Young - Messy is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now. Amid a great deal of condolences and public outcry . . . There's still not much news about motive. And so, tonight we share the basics regarding info shared with the public . . . Check-it: The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas confirmed on social media Thursday afternoon, April 3, that Father Arul Carasala was fatally shot earlier in the day. Father Carasala had been the pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca, Kansas. We are praying for the repose of his soul and for the comfort of all who loved him, the Archdiocese said. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann also took to social media with heartfelt condolences. He called the incident a senseless act of violence that left an entire parish grieving the loss of their beloved leader. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Father Arul Carasala, longtime Catholic priest in Kansas, fatally shot in Seneca Father Arul Carasala, a longtime Kansas priest, was fatally shot Thursday in Seneca, Kansas. Tulsa man arrested in connection to shooting of Kansas priest Authorities have arrested a man in connection to the shooting death of a Kansas priest. Catholic priest Arul Carasala fatally shot in northeast Kansas. What we know Arul Carasala, the India-born priest who was pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church at Seneca in Nemaha County, was shot and killed April 3. Developing . . . ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 4. Kazakhstan, which produces nearly 40 percent of the world's uranium and with 10 percent of global electricity generated from nuclear energy, plans to build its first nuclear power plant to reduce emissions and enhance energy security, said Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in his speech at the Samarkand Climate Forum, Trend reports. "We welcome the new collective quantitative goal of COP29 on climate financing. Kazakhstan is proud of its membership in the Green Climate Fund and the Loss and Damage Fund, contributing to global efforts to support vulnerable countries," Tokayev said. The President of Kazakhstan also reminded of the importance of transitioning to renewable energy in the country's strategy. "Renewable energy is the foundation of our strategy. We are implementing one of the largest green hydrogen production projects in the world. Wind and solar power plants have been launched in collaboration with global corporate leaders," he said. At the end of his speech, Tokayev noted that Kazakhstan continues to actively work towards achieving sustainable development goals and making a significant contribution to international efforts in combating climate change. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The great hollow of Minto Flats Photo by Cristina Hansen Minto Flats spills out in frozen lakes and rivers just beyond the village of Minto during sunrise on March 23, 2025. MINTO FLATS Within a vast bowl bordered by blue hills, I rolled along on a trail scratched into ice by snowmachines. That deceptive basin Minto Flats is big enough to swallow Denali, if the big mountain happened to stumble in here and fall. Just over a ridge west of Fairbanks, Minto Flats is an oval of swampy lowlands larger than Anchorage. The flats are a quiet expanse that has for longer than anyones memory produced moose, beavers and northern pike for local villagers. It has also intrigued oil and gas developers, as well as seismologists who know the self-healing surface hides the scars of large earthquakes. Photo by Cristina Hansen A dog team follows a trail through Minto Flats on March 23, 2025. As the sun rose over the flats and reflected off the wind sculpted snow, teams of sled dogs and their drivers passed me and my fatbike. I was one of three human-powered racers in a contest called the T-Dog. Competitors that day raced from the village of Minto perched on a hill to the west of the flats to Fairbanks, 100 miles away. I signed up for the T-Dog to do something new, and to draw a new line on my map that crossed the flats. Instead of dog mushers, a few bikers and a skier, in a few months Minto Flats will be loud with quacks, honks and splashes. Scientists once calculated 213 ducks per square mile existed here during one spring/summer breeding season. Photo by Ned Rozell Two sled dogs in a team driven by musher Alison Lifka begin a trip to Fairbanks after following a trail to Minto Flats from the village of Minto. Minto Flats constitutes one of the highest quality waterfowl nesting and staging habitats in Alaska, and possibly in North America, wrote Alaska Department of Fish and Game biologists in the Minto Flats State Game Refuge Management Plan in 1992. In 1961, a geologist named David Barnes of the U.S. Geological Survey in Menlo Park, California, described something extraordinary about the sprawling wetland: The force of gravity is not as strong in the center of Minto Flats as it is in the surrounding hills. That gravity low, achieved in part because the Earth isnt a perfect sphere, means that the force holding dogsled runners to the snow there is a little weaker than on the ridges. It also means that Minto Flats is sinking. Scientists have calculated that the descending basin of Minto Flats is 56 miles long, 7.5 miles wide and 4.5 miles deep. That would allow the flats (if you scooped out all the muck) to swallow Denali, at 20,310 feet a little less than four miles tall. Photo by Ned Rozell A view of Minto Flats in September 2014. The basin, however, is now full. Over millions of years, rivers have pumped in ground-up rock, filling Minto Flats with sediment and amplifying the effects of big earthquakes. Those include magnitude 7.2s in both 1937 and 1947 and a 6 felt by many Fairbanks residents in 1995. Carl Tape of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute and his colleagues installed seismometers near Minto village and in spots along the adjacent Tanana River during the last 10 years. They have determined that earthquakes in Minto Flats and the larger Nenana Basin (of which it is a part) feel stronger to the observer than earthquakes that shake people standing on more solid ground. That intensified earthquake shaking is typical of towns and cities built upon sedimentary basins, among them Tokyo, San Francisco and Los Angeles. When the faults beneath Minto Flats slip, Fairbanks can rattle with a magnitude 7 earthquake. Other population centers adjacent to the flats are Minto village (150 people counted in the 2020 census), Manley Hot Springs (169) and Nenana (380). Photo by Ned Rozell In Minto, Alaska, UAF seismologist Carl Tape listens to the late Berkman Silas in 2014. Silas remembered a large earthquake he experienced in 1937. In the middle of the flats in March, there seemed to be no one except those traversing it along a blue/white line of trail. Besides that big-sky feeling a person gets while driving across South Dakota, another sensation came to mind when biking Minto Flats: They are nice and flat. It also helped that the snowmachine trails were hard as pavement. And that the 50 miles from Minto to the town of Nenana features a 40-foot elevation drop. From there, its slightly uphill to Fairbanks upon trails pressed into the frozen Tanana River by a few hundred Iditarod dogs in early March. In 100-plus miles from the village of Minto to my home (to which I pedaled), the total elevation gain was just 56 feet. Add to that the imperceptible boost of riding through the flats where gravity wasnt giving its best shot, I had no excuses not to make it home. Since the late 1970s, the University of Alaska Fairbanks' Geophysical Institute has provided this column free in cooperation with the UAF research community. Ned Rozell ned.rozell@alaska.edu is a science writer for the Geophysical Institute. 04/03/2025 By Ed Brennen The Manning School of Business recently interrupted its regularly scheduled programming in this case, two days of classes in late March to give students something different: Industry Days, an inaugural event that brought more than 100 working professionals to campus to talk about the trends, challenges and opportunities in their respective fields. Similar to a professional conference, students could choose from 88 speaker sessions, panel discussions and keynotes over the Wednesday and Thursday schedule. Students were encouraged to dress professionally and were invited to network with industry guests during complimentary lunches in the Pulichino Tong Business Centers Colella Atrium. Overall, Industry Days sessions drew nearly 4,500 registrations, or about 50 students per session. The event was open to all business majors, as well as UMass Lowell students minoring in business or taking business courses and members of the Honors College and River Hawk Scholars Academy. Image by Ed Brennen Image by Ed Brennen Image by Ed Brennen Image by Ed Brennen Image by Ed Brennen Rist Family Endowed Dean of Business Bertie Greer , who worked in the automotive industry for almost a decade, created the event to bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world.By sharing your experiences and perspective, you are helping students understand not only the theory, but what's behind business decisions and the practical challenges that you face, Greer said of industry guests during the luncheon. You are helping students understand the creativity and resilience they need to work in this fast-changing business landscape.Of the industry professionals who gave their time, 44 were UMass Lowell alumni representing the past six decades, from Donald Gill 75, former CEO and president of Coastal Heritage Bank, to Nyna Pendkar 22, 24, a senior financial systems analyst at Insulet.Jennifer Menendez, a juniorstudent from Waltham, Massachusetts, appreciated learning about how Pendkar has navigated a nonlinear career path.She found unexpected opportunities in jobs that she wasnt expecting to take, Menendez said. As a first-gen student, it was awesome to hear that she also wasnt sure what she wanted to pursue.Sophomore finance student Evan Kifor enjoyed hearing alumna Amie Stevens 06 talk about navigating the banking crises of Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic during her time as an executive director at J.P. Morgan."It was perspective-changing," said Kifor, who, like many students, signed up for as many sessions as possible.This event really gets you into the headspace of networking and learning how to engage with industry professionals, said the Westford, Massachusetts native, who transferred to UML this semester from UMass Dartmouth.Nehemie Lucien, a sophomore concentrating in accounting and entrepreneurship , found inspiration in the sessions led by women entrepreneurs.As an entrepreneur myself, it was moving to hear how they got started, what their setbacks were and what empowered them to keep moving forward, said Lucien, who is from Boston.alumna Deborah Riley 91, who worked at Fidelity Investments for 10 years before pivoting to a real estate career, gave a talk on personal budgeting and financial planning.It is possible to retire as a millionaire if you start now. And it doesn't take a lot even if you can get $100 a month into your 401(k), Riley told a room of 72 students. But you have to start young and resist the temptation to spend; you dont spend yourself to wealth.Originally from Billerica, Massachusetts, Riley was honored to be part of the inaugural event.Attending UMass Lowell was life-changing for me in so many ways, she said.Ken Steele 18, a senior financial planner at Baystate Financial, gave a talk about a day in the life of a financial planner.Bringing the real world to campus is a fabulous idea, said Steele, an Arlington, Massachusetts, resident who earned a masters degree in finance and financial management services from UML and has worked as an adjunct faculty member in the Manning School. I put my three kids through college, and I dont remember them ever talking about something like this.Keynote speakers included Fred Lowery, executive vice president and president of laboratory products and bioproduction at Thermo Fisher Scientific; industrial engineering alum John Pantanella 90, CEO and founder of Chemline Inc. (the event sponsor); and electrical engineering alumVala Afshar94, 96, chief digital evangelist at Salesforce.In his closing talk on artificial intelligence and the future of business, Afshar told students that the connections they made during Industry Days, and during their time at UML, can shape their careers and futures.The most remarkable people I know seek random collisions, Afshar said. You spent two days at this conference. How many new friends did you make? How many faculty members did you meet?After the final session ended, Greer reflected on an event that started as just an item on my vision board.I had no idea what it would be like, but the team came together and we pulled it off, she said. Everybody got something out of it the students, the alumni, the industry guests, even the faculty and staff. It brought me great joy to see the response. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home MHT CET 2025 Admit Card, Normalization Document Released The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell (CET) has released on its official website cetcell.mahacet.org the Hall Ticket (Admit Card) of candidates who have registered for MHT CET 2025 Examination along with Normalisation Document Friday April 4, 2025 9:32 PM , ummid.com News Network MHT CET 2025: The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell (CET) has released on its official website cetcell.mahacet.org the Hall Ticket (Admit Card) of candidates who have registered for MHT CET 2025 Examination along with Normalisation Document. The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell (CET) had on Thursday made available for download the MHT CET 2025 Admit Cards and Hall Tickets for PCB and PCM both groups. The Maharashtra CET Cell released the Normalisation Document today i.e. Friday April 04, 2025. As per the new schedule, MHT CET 2025 PCB Group will be held from April 09 to 17, 2025 (Except April 10 and 14, 2025). MHT CET 2025 PCM Group on the other hand will be held on from April 19 to 27, 2025 (Except April 24, 2025). MHT CET 2025 Normalisation Document The process of Normalization is an established practice for comparing candidate scores across multi shift papers and is similar to those being adopted in other large educational selection tests conducted in India. The Maharashtra CET Cell uses Normalization Method to ensure that candidates are neither benefitted nor disadvantaged due to the difficulty level of the examination. Candidates should also note that instead of the raw marks of the candidate, the Percentile score will be the Normalized Score for the examination. The Percentile scores are scores based on the relative performance of all those who appear for the examination. Basically, the marks obtained are transformed into a scale ranging from 100 to 0 for each session of examinees. The Maharashtra CET Cell has published in detail how the Percentile score is calculated and other details relating to Normalisation method on its website "cetcell.mahacet.org". Direct Link to download MHT CET Admit Card Click here to go to the official website: "cetcell.mahacet.org". Under 'CETs' in Menu bar, click on 2025-26. Log-in using Registered Email ID and Password. Click on the box marked as "Sign in' and log-in to download your admit card. Your Hall Ticket and MHT CET 2025 Admit Card should appear on screen. Download and take a printout. Candidates registered for the MHT CET should check their name, photograph and other details correctly printed on the hall ticket. Candidates should also check entrance exam date, time, shift, name and address of exam center clearly mentioned in the admit card. MHT CET 2025 Syllabus Marks obtained in MHT CET 2025 (MHT CET PCB and PCM) is considered for admission in various Engineering, Medical and Pharmacy courses. Students who clear the Class 12 or HSC exams are eligible to appear in MHT CET. Candidates should note that like previous year, there will not be Negative Marking System and the difficulty level of the entrance exam will be at par with JEE Main and NEET, the Maharashtra CET Cell said. There will be no Negative Marking. However, difficulty level will be at par with JEE Main for Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, whereas difficulty level for Biology will be at par with NEET, the CET Cell said. MHT CET 2025 Paper Pattern The Maharashtra CET Cell said the MHT CET questions will be based on the syllabus of State Council of Educational Research and Training, Maharashtra. Approximately 20% weightage will be given to Class 11 curriculum and 80% weightage will be given to Class 12 syllabus while setting the MHT CET 2025 Question Papers, the CET Cell said. MHT CET 2025 will consist of three question papers of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ). Each paper will be of 100 marks, it said. The questions will be mainly application based, the CET Cell added. The duration of the exams will be 90 minutes. Mathematics paper will have a total of 50 questions of 2 marks each whereas Physics, Chemistry and Biology papers will have 100 questions of 1 mark each. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Pakistan to send its first astronaut to space with China help Pakistan is planning to send its first astronaut to space with the Chinese support Friday April 4, 2025 7:17 PM , ummid.com News Network Islamabad: Pakistan is planning to send its first astronaut to space with the Chinese support. Pakistan's first astronaut will go to space under a recently signed agreement between the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). Talking to Geo News, Director SUPARCO Dr Muhammad Farooq said under the agreement the Pakistani astronaut would travel to the China Space Station (CSS), the first foreign astronaut to do so. Headquartered in Rawat, near Islamabad, SUPARCO is Pakistan's national space agency. Selection of Pakistani astronaut underway The SUPARCO Director further said that the procedure to select the first Pakistani astronaut to go to space has already begun. "The selection procedure has now begun and will be finalised during 2025", Dr Farooq said. "Initially, primary selection will be conducted based on received nominations, followed by secondary evaluation, and finally two astronauts will be selected", he said. The selected individuals will undergo comprehensive training in 2026, aligned with standard international astronaut training practices. "They will travel to Chinas astronaut training centre and undergo one year of preparation before finally embarking on the space journey", he said. Eligibility criteria Preferred candidates will be experienced pilots or scientists, Dr Farook said. "Eligible candidates will include Suparco scientists or experienced Pakistani pilots", he said. The age criteria are between 30 and 45 years. Candidates must meet specific height and weight requirements, have normal vision (no colour blindness), and must be male for this mission. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home U.S. tariff war rattles markets, but Trump upbeat Share markets across the world Friday April 04, 2025 crashed further a day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced, what he called, Reciprocal Tariffs, on multiple countries including India and China Friday April 4, 2025 4:45 PM , ummid.com News Network Mumbai: Share markets across the world Friday April 04, 2025 crashed further a day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced, what he called, Reciprocal Tariffs, on multiple countries including India and China. Trump also called Wednesday April 02, 2025 the day the tariffs announced by him took into effect, as the Liberation Day for the American economy. The markets were already in red since last two days as Trump prepared his liberation day tariff announcement Wednesday. Continuing the downturn, the Indian benchmark indices, BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty, opened lower on Friday. According to the latest market update, Sensex tumbled over 1,000 points whereas Nifty traded below 23,000 Friday. The mid and small-cap segments are under sharp selling pressure. The BSE MidCap index is down 996 points (2.38%) at 40,799.28, and the BSE SmallCap index has fallen 1,215 points (2.56%) to an unspecified level. Of the 2,765 stocks traded on the NSE, 2,214 ended in the red, with only 499 in the green and 52 unchanged, reflecting a broadly bearish market sentiment. Japans Nikkei sank 3% and Wall Street recorded its steepest single-day percentage drop since 2020 as broad tariff announcements stoked fears of a global recession and trade was. Donald Trumps Tariff War In a much awaited announcement Wednesday Donald Trump imposed 10% baseline tariff on all goods entering the United States effective April 05, 2025. Trump also announced a punishing tariff of 34% on China the maximum imposed on any country. With this, the Chinese export to U.S. will have a total duty of 54% - 20% existing and 34% new, from April 09, 2025. As for the other countries, Trump announced 26% tariff on goods imported from India, 20% on the European Union, 24% on Japan (24%), 46% on Vietnam (46%), and 49% on Cambodia. Moreover, Trump also announced 25% tariff on foreign-made automobiles effective from April 3, alongside existing levies on steel, aluminum, and select goods from Canada and Mexico. Trump Upbeat The market downturn continued for the second day even a Donald Trump hoped his decision will revive the American economy and will make the country great again. Trump claimed these tariffs will boost U.S. manufacturing and reduce the trade deficit (pegged at $1.2 trillion in 2024). The immediate market response however suggests investors are bracing for short-term pain, with companies like Apple and Nike already contributing to the S&P 500s slide due to their reliance on affected supply chains. For the Indian market, Trumps tariff announcement aggravates global economic jitters, with export-oriented sectors like IT (already down 4.2% yesterday) facing additional pressure from a potential U.S. slowdown. The Indian rupees value and the countrys trade balance could also shift if the U.S. dollar strengthens further, as some predict post-tariff implementation. Trump calls for negotiations, China unfazed Trump, meanwhile, indicated some openness to making deals on tariffs, including working with China on a deal involving the sale of TikTok, in response to questions from reporters on Air Force One a short time ago, according to CNN. Every country has called us. Thats the beauty of what we do, we put ourselves in the drivers seat, Trump told reporters Thursday. Trump said he was open to discussions with other countries, as long as they are giving us something thats good. He then named TikTok as an example, suggesting China might help secure a sale in exchange for tariff relief. Refusing to bow to Trump's pressure tactics and "blackmailing" China Friday imposed additional tariffs of 34% on all U.S. goods, effective April 10, 2025. China also said it had filed a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over sweeping US tariffs imposed on its exports. "China has filed a lawsuit under the WTO dispute settlement mechanism," Beijing's commerce ministry said in a statement. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, April 4. Together with Uzbekistan, we are working on greening the bottom of the Aral Sea, said Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev while speaking at the International Conference Central Asia in the Face of Global Climate Threats in Samarkand, Trend reports. In his speech, Tokayev also noted that Central Asia is a region that is heavily affected by climate change on our planet. According to him, the temperature here is rising twice as fast as the global average. He said the region is suffering from extreme weather eventsglaciers are melting, desertification is occurring, and water scarcity is growing. We must find the right balance between the growth of our economies and the climate agenda. In this regard, I would like to inform you that I have set the task of planting new trees across the entire territory of Kazakhstan. In addition, a special program for the protection and conservation of forests is being implemented, and the Taza Kazakhstan campaign is being carried out, aimed at fostering environmental awareness, especially among the younger generation, Tokayev said. During the conference, speeches were also made by the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the European Council Antonio Costa, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdymukhammedov, Deputy Secretary-General and Executive Director of the UN-Habitat Program Anacleudia Rossbach, Executive Secretary of the UN ECE Tatiana Molchan, and President of the EBRD Odile Renaud-Basso. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel "For this reason, we aim to expand the scope of our trade cooperation. Additionally, enhancing the operations of the corridor, improving the gas sector, strengthening energy security, and developing the electricity grid are among our key goals. However, our actions are not limited to crisis management we must also identify strategic pathways for the future. In this context, the development of a green energy corridor between the South Caucasus and the EU is one of our priority issues. There are various ideas, technologies, and routes available in this field. Our main task now is to bring these promising ideas together to ensure the effective operation of the green energy corridor. There is great potential and a spirit of cooperation in this direction, and both sides are interested in this initiative," he said. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The University of Wyoming and its Manufacturing Works program have received word of a decision by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to withhold federal funding from Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers in 10 states, including Wyoming. This action impacts approximately $700,000 in expected funding for Manufacturing Works, the MEP center serving Wyoming. Manufacturing Works has been a cornerstone in supporting Wyomings manufacturing sector for over two decades, providing essential services such as technical assistance, engineering solutions, business consulting, marketing support and financial counseling. The withdrawal of federal funds presents a major disruption to the support we can provide Wyoming manufacturers, says Rocky Case, center director for Manufacturing Works. This reduction will unfortunately lead to a scaling back of some of the critical services -- such as artificial intelligence/machine learning assessments and implementation; critical supply chain optimization; business diversification, including expansion of small and medium manufacturers to support critical emerging energy technologies including modular and micro nuclear energy; and workforce development -- that our clients have depended on for years. Despite this, we remain committed to doing everything possible to support the states manufacturing community with the resources we still have. We are actively seeking alternative funding sources and strategic partnerships to help mitigate the impact of these cuts but, without restored federal support, our ability to deliver the full breadth of services will inevitably be diminished. The university looks forward to working with Manufacturing Works, the Wyoming Business Council and other partners to find a way forward, says Parag Chitnis, UWs vice president for research and economic development. We aim to work with state and local stakeholders to ensure Wyomings manufacturing sector continues to thrive. Manufacturing Works appreciates the continued support of its partners, clients and the broader Wyoming community during this critical time, Case says. Advanced manufacturing is a fast-growing and important part of Wyoming's economy. As we look to diversify our economy and create opportunities for Wyomingites, partners like Manufacturing Works are critical for our manufacturing base to succeed and grow, says Wyoming Business Council CEO Josh Dorrell. The Wyoming Business Council is committed to working with Manufacturing Works to navigate the federal funding turmoil and keep them focused on solving problems for Wyoming's manufacturing businesses. About Manufacturing Works Manufacturing Works is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting Wyoming manufacturers, producers and entrepreneurs in growing their revenues, increasing productivity and strengthening global competitiveness. As part of the MEP National Network, Manufacturing Works has been instrumental in delivering solutions that create value and drive economic growth in Wyoming. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. At the Samarkand Investment Forum, Anaclaudia Rossbach, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN-Habitat, addressed pressing challenges related to climate change and urbanization in the region. She emphasized the urgent need for cities to adopt sustainable, forward-thinking strategies to tackle environmental and demographic shifts. Rossbach highlighted the critical role cities play in the global climate crisis, stating, "Cities share responsibility in energy consumption and emissions, accounting for 70%, but they also contribute around 80% of countries' GDPs." She pointed out the growing urbanization in the region, noting that "50% of the population already lives in cities, and this is only increasing." In her speech, Rossbach underscored that cities must act now to adapt to climate-related events such as floods, fires, heatwaves, and rising temperatures. "This is happening in all regions of the world," she noted, stressing the need for cities to not only prepare for such events but to improve and expand infrastructure to accommodate growing populations. She also emphasized the importance of urban planning that focuses on people and the environment. "Cities need urban plans and land policies that are people- and environment-oriented," she said. "Solutions should be nature-based, increasing green coverage, public spaces, and promoting sustainable mobility and transportation." Housing, Rossbach added, should be a central concern, particularly in light of the UNHCR's upcoming strategic plan, which focuses on providing well-located, sustainably built, and affordable housing. "By taking these actions, cities will not only become more resilient but will also increase efficiency and productivity, contributing to economic advancement," she explained. However, she stressed that finance is a crucial element in this process. "The presence and action of development banks is so important," Rossbach remarked, emphasizing the need for strong financial backing to support these urban projects. Looking ahead, Rossbach discussed the importance of global discussions such as the upcoming Finance for Development Conference in Seville, Spain, and COP in Brazil. UN-Habitat, she said, is working closely with international financial institutions to expand funding for sustainable infrastructure, particularly in the urban and housing sectors. "We are committed to working with you to support communities and cities, in both urban and rural areas, to not only resist but to thrive," she affirmed. Rossbach concluded by inviting participants to continue the conversation at future forums. "We hope to see you at COP30 in Belem, Brazil, where we aim to strengthen the debate on urbanization and bring together national and local governments, stakeholders, and finance for cities," she said. She also looked forward to the 13th edition of the World Urban Forum in Baku, Azerbaijan, in May 2026, reaffirming UN-Habitat's commitment to working collaboratively with the region. Key Takeaways Phthalates may impact brain development in babies that are exposed during pregnancy Study shows links to low levels of key brain chemicals like serotonin Experts urge women to reduce exposure to plastics and certain personal care products FRIDAY, April 4, 2025 (HealthDay News) -- Common chemicals used in plastic and personal care products may interfere with brain development in babies, a new study says. Phthalates are found in many everyday items, like food packaging, shampoo, toys and vinyl flooring. They help make plastics soft and carry scents in products. But they may also harm unborn babies brains when mothers are exposed during pregnancy, researchers say. We conducted this study because phthalates are everywhere in our daily lives, senior study author Donghai Liang, an associate professor of environmental health at Emory Universitys Rollins School of Public Health in Atlanta, told to CNN. Hence their nickname everywhere chemicals. His team found that babies who had been exposed to these chemicals in the womb had lower levels of important brain chemicals, including serotonin and dopamine. These help control mood, learning and a baby's reactions. The study, published April 2 in the journal Nature Communications, followed 216 mother-baby pairs in Atlanta. Researchers tested urine from pregnant women for phthalates and tested the babies blood after they were born. The tests revealed that babies exposed to phthalates had low levels of tyrosine and tryptophan -- amino acids that help make key brain chemicals. These babies also scored lower on tests of attention and response. Phthalates have been linked to many health issues, including asthma, obesity and even cancer. This new research helps explain how these chemicals may affect the brain. Dr. Leonardo Trasande of New York University, who reviewed the findings, said the study adds to understanding of these chemicals. We know already across not just brain development in babies, but a host of consequences that run from cradle to grave, and womb to tomb that phthalates, in the form of (a) disease burden due to plastic, cost the US $250 billion annually, Trasande told CNN. This study just adds to a voluminous base of evidence that chemicals used in plastic materials harm human health, Trasande added. Its not really something that we should be debating more actively. The more thoughtful approach would be to actually discuss what we need to do about the use of plastic. People can lower their risk by using glass or stainless steel instead of plastic, avoiding nonstick pans and choosing personal care items labeled phthalate-free. Since phthalates can be found in household dust, improving air circulation and regular cleaning with a damp cloth can help, Liang added. More information The Environmental Working Group has more on phthalates. SOURCE: CNN, April 2, 2025 What This Means For You Using fewer plastic and scented products during pregnancy may help protect your babys brain health. Key Takeaways A federal judge blocked $11 billion in planned public health funding cuts The money helps support COVID, mental health and drug use programs States argued the cuts would harm public health and future health emergencies FRIDAY, April 4, 2025 (HealthDay News) -- A federal judge has stopped the Trump administration from cutting $11 billion in public health funding -- at least for now. U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy, who was appointed by President Donald Trump in 2019, said Thursday that she would grant a temporary restraining order. The request came from 23 states and the District of Columbia, who argued the cuts would hurt their ability to provide adequate medical care. They make a case, a strong case, for the fact that they will succeed on the merits, so Im going to grant the temporary restraining order, McElroy said, as reported by The Associated Press. A written ruling will follow. New York Attorney General Letitia James tweeted about the decision on X. Were going to continue our lawsuit and fight to ensure states can provide the medical services Americans need, James said. The funding, approved by Congress during the pandemic, supports a wide range of programs, including COVID response and mental health care. The states, who filed the lawsuit earlier this week, said loss of the funds would damage the U.S. public health system, cut off important services and make the country less prepared for future health emergencies. Some states are already feeling the impact. Minnesotas health department has laid off nearly 200 workers. North Carolina says it could lose $230 million, while California expects to lose $1 billion, The Associated Press said. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said his state was at risk of losing a half-billion dollars. That money supports long-term care for older adults and vaccines for children. As a result of taking the Administration to court, these dollars will now start flowing again, he wrote on X. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie Kane objected to the judges decision in court but said her office didnt have enough time to review the thousands of documents involved. This ruling is one of many legal challenges to Trumps policies. The administration is facing more than 150 lawsuits covering topics like immigration, cuts to federal programs and transgender rights. More information The Tax Foundation, a nonpartisan tax policy group, is tracking ongoing federal budget cuts. SOURCE: The Associated Press, April 3, 2025 What This Means For You Important health programs will keep getting money for now, so services like COVID care and vaccines wont stop. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Moldova plays an important role in the Southern Gas Corridor initiative and was the first country to commercialize the Greece-Bulgaria gas interconnector, said the Moldovan Minister of Energy, Dorin Junghietu, Trend reports. In his speech at the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting, Junghietu noted that natural gas will continue to play a crucial role in Moldova's energy structure. "This will expand our renewable energy potential. Therefore, we would like to see the vertical corridor develop. This is a key project for the future of Moldova's energy sector. Overall, the continuous diversification of supply sources, including imports from Azerbaijan, will enable us to meet our energy needs. Moldova remains fully committed to the Southern Gas Corridor. We are also dedicated to common interests such as energy security, sustainability, and market integration. Together, we can overcome challenges, create new opportunities, and ensure a safer, more prosperous energy future for us all," the Moldovan minister added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel "For Ilaria, for Sara, for all the women". Killings of Ilaria Sula and Sara Campanella spark new femicide debate in Italy. Thousands of people took to the streets in Rome and the Sicilian city of Messina on Thursday following the murders of two female students in the latest femicide cases to shock Italy. Students protested at Rome's Sapienza University in honour of Ilaria Sula, a 22-year-old statistics student whose body was found in a suitcase in a ravine to the east of the capital on Wednesday. Sula, who was of Albanian origin but had lived in the central Italian city of Terni since she was a child, had been missing since 25 March and was stabbed to death. Ilaria Sula Her former boyfriend Mark Samson, a 23-year-old Filippino-Italian, is being questioned by police on suspicion of her murder and of hiding a body. "For Ilaria, for Sara, for all of the women", came the chants of the Sapienza students who left flowers outside the statistical sciences department where Sula studied. Centinaia di persone si sono radunate all'Universita la Sapienza di Roma per ricordare Ilaria Sula, la ventiduenne studentessa di Scienze statistiche uccisa dal suo ex fidanzato Mark Samson pic.twitter.com/Ixj1lZ5SIc Tg3 (@Tg3web) April 3, 2025 "It was not a sudden outburst, a moment of madness that killed Ilaria" - a student shouted from a loudspeaker - "but it is the sense of supremacy of man over woman. All this is the result of a patriarchal system". In a statement, La Sapienza rector Antonia Polimeni said Sula's death was "an atrocious and brutal femicide, that leaves us speechless and heartbroken", adding: "We can no longer stand idly by to episodes of femicide." The students protesting at La Sapienza on Thursday also remembered Sara Campanella, a 22-year-old trainee nurse from Palermo, who was murdered in broad daylight in Messina on Monday afternoon. Campanella was stabbed in the neck by a man - later identified by prosecutors as 27-year-old fellow student Stefano Argentino - who has confessed to the crime. Sara Campanella On Thursday evening large crowds attended a candle-lit procession in Messina in memory of Campanella whose mother Cetty Zaccaria received sustained applause for her words of thanks to the students and local residents for "giving Sara a voice". Messina mayor Federico Basile, who attended the procession, said the city would dedicate a place in memory of the murdered student. In Rome the city council began its proceedings on Thursday with a moment of silence dedicated to Sula and Campanella and to all victims of femicide. Around 2,000 students took to the streets in the northern city of Bologna on Wednesday evening for an "angry torchlight procession" to express their indignation over the latest femicides in Italy and to remember the victims. Under the banner "Once again, Sara and Ilaria, like Giulia", protesters recalled the high-profile killing of 22-year-old engineering student Giulia Cecchettin in November 2023. She was stabbed to death by her former boyfriend Filippo Turetta who was jailed for life last December. Cecchettin's murder caused a wave of anger in Italy, with her sister and father helping to spur a major debate about femicide, patriarchy and gender-based violence. A year and a half later, the killings of Sula and Campanella have sparked renewed anger in Italy where 11 women have been killed since the start of 2025. Image: Rome protest on International Day for the Eliminiation of Violence against Women, 25 November 2023. Photo credit: Fabrizio Maffei / Shutterstock.com. ICSA Rural Development chair Edmond Phelan has insisted that fair payment for farmers must be a core principle of Irelands Nature Restoration Plan. If farmers are expected to take land out of production, they must be properly paid for doing so - and on an ongoing basis," Mr Phelan said. "Nature restoration is not a short-term initiative; it has lasting consequences for generations, and payments will have to reflect that. Short-term schemes like ACRES, which only provide temporary support, will not be enough. Commenting on the Leaders Forum on Nature Restoration, which he attended recently in Dublin, Mr Phelan said that while the forum was a positive first step in the development of our national Nature Restoration Plan, key concerns remain about how farmers will be treated in the process. For the most part, attendees recognised that if farmers are asked to take land out of production, they must be adequately paid. However, farmer representatives were outnumbered on the day by environmental and other NGOs. "This raises questions about whose interests will ultimately shape the plan and whether farmers will be fairly treated. Mr Phelan said there was also growing scepticism among farmers about the voluntary nature of the Nature Restoration Law. While the government has given assurances that all activities will be voluntary, many farmers worry that if targets are not met by 2030, pressure will mount to impose compulsory measures. "We need firm guarantees that farmers will not be coerced into land-use changes in the future to meet targets that may prove unrealistic. There is also a real concern around how farmland surrounding rewetted lands could be affected, and these farmers certainly havent volunteered to be adversely affected. He added that how farmers and foresters are treated in the aftermath of Storm Eowyn will serve as a crucial test of the governments commitment to supporting them through nature restoration efforts. How the government responds to the aftermath of the storm, and the devastation it caused to so many forests, will be a strong indicator of their willingness to stand by farmers in the long term. I am also concerned that when the true cost of the plan becomes clear, there is a risk that it will be watered down or pushed onto the political back burner, particularly given the shifting political landscape in Europe and the US. Concluding, Mr Phelan said, If we go back to first principles, agriculture was forced to intensify due to an unrelenting drive for cheaper food. Farmers had to drive up output because of declining margins - it was a race to the bottom, dictated by policymakers, not farmers. In this era of nature restoration, we must also acknowledge that the era of cheap food is over." BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. At the Samarkand Investment Forum, Tatiana Molcean, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), emphasized the urgency of action on climate change despite the regions political and economic challenges. Speaking at the high-level gathering, Molcean outlined three key elements for tackling climate change: political will, effective partnerships, and scaled-up financing. Facing the hard realities of Central Asiasuch as the disaster of the Aral Sea and the vanishing glaciersit is clear that political will is present, Molcean said. She noted the strong commitment to climate action demonstrated by the leaders attending the forum, convened by the President of Uzbekistan. Molcean also highlighted the importance of Central Asias unique partnership with the European Union, which she believes could be a game changer for the region. Your personal leadership, Madam and Mr. President, is really crucial in this process, she added, addressing the leadership present at the forum. The UNECE executive stressed the vital role of multilateral development banks, particularly the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), in facilitating the green financing needed for the regions transition. From the UN side, we are ready to contribute to this collective effort, she affirmed. Turning to the regions priorities, Molcean acknowledged the importance of infrastructure development, economic growth, and job creation. However, she emphasized that these goals must go hand in hand with smart, economically viable climate action. At UNECE, we strongly believe that this is not only possible, but achievable, she stated. One key area of focus is transport, a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. In 2024, members of the UN, under the UNECE convened platform, adopted the UNs first decarbonization strategy for inland transport, Molcean announced. She also highlighted the regional effort to digitize the Trans-Caspian Corridor, positioning it as a green corridor to reduce emissions and improve transit efficiency. Molcean also shared promising developments in energy. A recent UNECE report on energy systems for Central Asia found that energy self-sufficiency could improve significantly through regional interconnectedness, potentially saving up to 1.4 billion US dollars annually by 2050. These savings would provide crucial support for the regions decarbonization efforts. Water cooperation was another key issue addressed by Molcean. Transboundary cooperation is essential for effective climate adaptation, she stated, stressing the importance of water management in optimizing energy use and making economies and cities more resilient. She noted the UNECE Water Convention, which has helped foster transboundary cooperation for over 15 years, as a key tool in tackling these challenges. Molcean concluded by underscoring the need for a whole-of-society approach to climate change. The voices of citizens, civil society, and local communities are crucial, she said, pointing to the role of local governments and communities in driving change. She also announced that Uzbekistan had recently acceded to the Aarhus Convention, making it the fifth Central Asian country to join this important environmental treaty. Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with special responsibility for Fisheries, Timmy Dooley TD, has launched the Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAG) Coastal Communities Development Scheme 2025 2029. This scheme will provide funding of 15 million over the coming years to support economic development in our coastal communities. A key strength of this scheme is that it supports community-led local development, with the priorities for funding set out in the Local Development Strategies prepared by each of the seven Fisheries Local Action Groups. The scheme is implemented under Irelands Seafood Development Programme, which is jointly funded by the Irish government and the EU under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). It will build on the supports delivered under a similar scheme implemented previously, and also on the supports provided under the Brexit Blue Economy Enterprise Development Scheme, which provided over 13.2 million in funding to 369 beneficiaries operating in the blue economy within 10km of the coast over the course of 2022 and 2023. Commenting on the importance of the funding, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, said: This scheme is intended to enhance the economic opportunities and social sustainability of areas dependent on fishing and aquaculture. "Each FLAG has, through a process of public consultation, developed a Local Development Strategy, aimed at supporting job creation, adding value, promoting innovation, as well as enhancing their local environment and promoting each areas maritime cultural heritage. "Under the scheme, enterprises and initiatives in the fishing, aquaculture, and maritime-related sectors can apply to their local FLAG for funding to support the delivery or expansion of their project. Launching the new scheme, Minister Dooley, said: FLAGs were first established in Ireland in 2012 and since then each FLAG Board has played a vital role in supporting the development of their local coastal communities. "I am struck by the commitment that has been displayed for over a decade by FLAG Board Members, who give of their time on a voluntary basis. Their local knowledge, experience and engagement in their community is of such importance in delivering a funding programme that is truly community-led. The Minister went on to note that: This scheme will build on the great work that has been done by the FLAG Boards, with the support of Bord Iascaigh Mhara, over the past 12 years. It will continue to support investment in the economic, social, environmental and cultural fabric of our coastal communities. "The government is committed to providing the necessary supports for a thriving and vibrant blue economy that will provide economic opportunities for the many families living in coastal communities, and I am delighted to launch this scheme today, which will contribute to that effort. Each FLAG Board will be opening calls for applications in the coming weeks. For details on how to apply for funding from your local FLAG please visit: www.fisherieslocalactiongroups.ie ICSA president Sean McNamara has said the imposition of 20% tariffs on EU food exports to the US is yet another blow to Irish agriculture, warning that it will have serious consequences for Irish farmers. While much of the initial focus has been on our dairy and whiskey exports to the US, which are hugely important to the dairy and tillage sectors, it is crucial to recognise that this trade war also impacts Irish beef and sheep farmers. "We may not export large volumes of these products to the US, but anything that weakens the EU's overall position in agricultural trade is bad news for our sector," he said. Continuing, Mr McNamara said, The US is a key destination for high-value EU food products, and if access to that market is curtailed, it will be extremely difficult to find viable alternatives. "There is a real danger that this will drive down farmgate prices across all sectors, including beef and lamb. "The fact that the UK and New Zealand are being granted significantly lower tariffs than the EU underscores the need for our negotiators to step up and find a creative solution. "We cannot allow a situation where our exports become uncompetitive due to trade disputes that are beyond the control of ordinary farmers." Mr McNamara said ICSA is calling on the Irish government and the European Commission to engage in urgent talks to secure a negotiated settlement that protects agri-food exports. We need a fair deal that ensures Irish farmers are not the ones left paying the price for broader geopolitical tensions." Claire Henry A judge has said that the sexual assault carried out almost 20 years ago was a gross violation of the body of a child and the violation of his childhood innocence. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Eric Thompson (49) of no fixed abode was found guilty of sexual assault and false imprisonment on an unknown date between January 2004 and July 2006 at an address on Parnell Street, Dublin 1. Thompson has 34 previous convictions, with ten convictions for sexual assault and four for defilement of young boys. Thompson was sentenced to a combined 19-year sentence in the past. Passing sentence on Friday, Judge Orla Crowe said this defendant was convicted of false imprisonment and sexual assault. She said during the trial she heard evidence that Thomas had been involved in running a laundrette and had told the injured party that he had brand-name clothes in the laundrette that he could have. Judge Crowe said the victim impact statement was given in a very dignified way, and he gave a clear outline of the profound effect this offending had on a happy 14-year-old boy. She said, "The victim impact statement showed the love this injured party has for his family and that his family has for him. The judge said this court takes the sexual assault as the principal offence and the false imprisonment as the secondary offence. She said this was a gross violation of the body of a child and the violation of his childhood innocence. She said this had to be marked with a significant custodial sentence. Judge Crowe noted the aggravating factors in this case were that Thomas deliberately lured a child, force was used to remove his clothing, the impact this has had on the injured party and the defendant's previous convictions. She noted the mitigating factors as Thomass acceptance of the jurys verdict, his medical difficulties, his difficult childhood and his poor education. Judge Crowe sentenced Thomas to five years in prison, but said, To incentivise the rehabilitation that he clearly needs and for the safety of society, I will suspend the final 12 months for two years and place him under the supervision of the Probation Services. She directed that he follow all directions they deemed necessary. At a previous hearing, Detective Garda Lynsey Hennelly told Brian Storan, BL, prosecuting, that the offence took place 20 years ago, and the injured party was then a 14 or 15-year-old boy. The offending came to light after the injured party had his first child, and he came to the conclusion enough was enough. He then disclosed what had happened to his partner. The court heard the then-young boy would go to a chipper with his father. Thomas worked there and became friendly with the man and his son. On one occasion, the boy went to the chipper by himself. Thompson invited the boy into a laundrette that he was also involved in on Parnell Street. Thompson brought the boy into a back office and locked the door. Det Gda Hennelly gave evidence Thomas then took down the teenager's trousers and underwear and placed his hand on the boys penis and genital area. The court heard that he left his hand there for about 30 seconds. During the sexual assault, Thomas had a smile on his face. Victim impact statement The court heard that after the assault, the injured party felt sick, dirty and scared and that he was confused. Thomas was interviewed but denied the incidents. When asked if he knew the injured party, he said, I have never heard of him in my life. A victim impact statement was read to the court in which the victim said: I was a happy, Jack the lad, class clown when I was 14 and 15. That instantly changed when Eric Thomas sexually assaulted me I felt sick, I felt different to the rest of the lads. I was held back. I found myself more aggressive, and it got me in trouble. I was taking it out on others because I couldnt take it out on him. I didnt want to live anymore and couldnt tell anyone why. I started to use drugs to numb things out, and it worked for a while. No matter what justice I get here today, it will never leave me. Whatever pain you go through, it won't be half what I have gone through. I am looking you dead in the eyes; you dont scare me anymore. Gda Hennelly agreed with David Perry BL, defending, that he was not subject to any probation supervision upon his client's release from prison. The garda agreed with counsel that Thomas was sleeping rough near Dublin Airport from when he was released from prison late last year to when he went into custody on this matter. Mr Perry handed the court a report outlining his client's background, education and personal circumstances. He said Thomas had a turbulent upbringing and used alcohol and drugs. Counsel said Thomas used self-destructive behaviours, but he has now gotten these behaviours under control. The court heard that Thomas has many medical conditions and had spent a significant amount of time in custody for similar offences. During this time, he has engaged in both group and individual therapy and has also engaged in the Building Better Lives Programme. Mr Perry told the court that his client is now an enhanced prisoner who works in the prison kitchen. He said Thomas had suffered from mental health issues during his time in custody. He asked the court to take into account that since these offences were committed, his client has served a significant amount of time in custody and has undergone rehabilitation. He said his client has the capacity to rehabilitate and is willing to do so. He asked the court to structure a suspended portion of the sentence so Thomas could engage with post-release supervision, which would be of benefit to him. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can call the national 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline at 1800-77 8888, access text service and webchat options at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or visit Rape Crisis Help. Visit Waterford is inviting schools to contribute to a new e-book on myths and legends in the Deise. The programme will get students to explore traditions, myths and legends in their local areas and document these stories through research and creative writing. A number of pieces will be selected for the e-book which will be published on the Visit Waterford website. The e-book is to be showcased during an event on Culture Night in September. Primary and secondary schools are invited to take part. Schools interested can contact Clare at clare@visitwaterford.com for more information. Waterford mother Brid Ui Chadhla has asked the public to support Cystic Fibrosis Ireland on 65 Roses Day. The event will take place on April 11 and will see volunteers selling purple roses to support CFI, in Dunnes Stores branches, shopping centres and other outlets. Ms Ui Chadhla praised the support the organisation have given her 14-year-old daughter Eadaoin and their family. "Having CF brings challenges that I dont think people always know about. Thankfully, Eadaoin is well at the moment, but in the past has had to be in hospital for weeks at a time," she said. "This is difficult for her in terms of her education and socially but it also is hard on her siblings, who miss her when she is away," she added. "It is reassuring to know that CFI is there to provide advice and support to us as we need it, so Im asking everyone in the county, to dig deep and give generously on 65 Roses Day to help CFI continue to provide support to all the families impacted by CF in Ireland, said Ms Ui Chadhla. 65 Roses Day Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI) is aiming to raise 300,000 on 65 Roses Day. In Waterford roses will be sold at: Dunnes Stores, Dungarvan City Square Shopping Centre Georges Court Shopping Centre Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. Ireland has the highest incidence and some of the most severe types of CF in the world. Thirty-three new cases of CF are diagnosed in Ireland each year. Due to recent advancements in treatment and care, now more than 1,400 people are living with CF and the number is increasing. However, a recent survey conducted by CFI has shown that people with CF face significant challenges accessing medication and obtaining insurance. CFI helps people meet these challenges and fund investment in research into treatments, care and hopefully, one day a cure. Waterford TD Conor McGuinness has asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development to give funding to a proposed social enterprise network in the Comeragh district. The deputy submitted a parliamentary question recently in which he asked the Minister to provide pilot funding for the Comhar Comaraigh rural social enterprise initiative. Minister Dara Calleary said he understands that a request was made for funding for a full-time coordinator to work with local community and voluntary groups. He said that while funding would not be available this year, there could be in 2026. The minister said the request could be considered next year as part of the implementation of the National Social Enterprise Policy Trading for Impact. "The purpose of this policy is to help cultivate and sustain strong and impactful social enterprises in Ireland to enrich the social, environmental and economic well-being of people living in our communities. "I would like to acknowledge the valuable work undertaken to date by Comhar Comaraigh and the overall potential of this network for the benefit of the community," said Minister Calleary. The minister said that his department had been invited to present at the Dunhill Rural Enterprise CLG conference in October last year. At the conference, the minister's representative saw a presentation on a feasibility study setting up a 22 village/30 social enterprise network in the Comeragh Municipal District. The research was undertaken by Dunhill Rural Enterprises CLG in partnership with WAP-SICAP, Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, Kill Community Hall/Theatre, Healthy Waterford Initiative and SETU. Waterford's South Quays is to close to inbound traffic for almost two days later this month. Waterford City and County Council and BAM are advising the public that the closure will be from Rice Bridge and along the South Quays, from 8pm on Saturday, April 12, to 6am on Monday, April 14, inclusive. The measures also include the relocation of the bus stop at Meagher's Quay and the closure of the pedestrian crossing at the Clock Tower. Traffic will be diverted at Rice Bridge. The closure is to facilitate deep excavation works to connect to the existing foul sewer, as well as the installation of ducts for signalling and traffic lights to the east and west of the Clock Tower. The council say all measures will be clearly marked and asks the public to adhere to any signage. Outbound traffic is not affected. Emergency services will have access for the duration of the works. Merchants Quay and Clyde Wharf car parks will be accessible to outbound traffic. Waterford City and County Council and BAM say they apologise for any inconvenience caused. Eva Osborne Three women were arrested, and multiple mobile phones, a "significant" sum of cash, three high-powered scrambler motorcycles, and several XL Bully dogs were seized from a Dublin residence during a garda search on Thursday. One of the women, aged in her 50s, has since been charged and will appear in Blanchardstown District Court on Friday morning. The other two women, aged in their 20s and 30s, remain in garda custody. Gardai said investigations are ongoing. The arrests came about as part of ongoing investigations into the activities of an organised crime group in West Dublin. Gardai conducted a search of a residential property in Corduff, Dublin 15. During the search, gardai seized a significant sum of cash, multiple mobile phones and three high-powered scrambler motorcycles. Several XL Bully dogs were removed from the residence. Three adult women were arrested and are cuurently held at Garda Stations in the Dublin Region. The operation was led by gardai from the Drugs Unit, Crime Task Force and Detectives, Serious Crime North, DMR with support from the Emergency Response Unit (ERU) and other local units. Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Three retro-modern baking recipes the whole crew will love from The Bakers Book starring these chocolate rye tahini cookies. Many of Australias best bakers got their start in childhood, leafing through handwritten cake and biscuit recipes for their first foray into cooking. These hand-me-down recipes of our heritages, as influential baker Natalie Paull describes them in the foreword to The Bakers Book, have the power to transport us to another time or place, evoke a sense of wonder, spark a life-long hobby or even a career. Ruby Goss hoped to capture that magic when she teamed up with baker Rosemary Andrews on The Bakers Book, a compilation of recipes and cooking advice from more than 30 of Australias most inspiring bakers, among them Good Food contributors Emelia Jackson and Danielle Alvarez, and Nadine Ingram from Sydney bakery Flour and Stone. We asked for recipes that excited them, that they wanted to share, in the hope that this book might become something you treasure, like a passed-down community cookbook, Goss writes in the books introduction. The recipes range from everyday loaf cakes, slices and biscuits to tarts, choux and showstopping layer cakes. But what could be better than these three updated classics steeped in nostalgia? Drug kingpin Tony Mokbel has walked from custody for the first time in nearly two decades, spending his first hours of freedom pursued along a freeway in his car and reuniting with family, as well as visiting his mothers grave. Three Court of Appeal judges granted him bail on Friday subject to about 30 strict conditions including that he not use a smartphone, not use encrypted apps, wear a GPS ankle bracelet, be subjected to a curfew and report daily to police. Tony Mokbel walks free from court for the first time in nearly 18 years on Friday. Credit: Daniel Pockett The underworld figure made a bid for bail earlier this week after being locked up for nearly 18 years overseas and then in Victoria for drug trafficking, a prosecution that his legal team argues has been hopelessly corrupted by the Lawyer X scandal. And in granting his bail, Justice Karin Emerton gave Mokbel, 59, more good news, saying his appeal case was strong. Flash China on Thursday rejected Japan's so-called concerns over China's joint exercises around the Taiwan Island, saying Japan's words and actions blatantly violate the one-China principle. The drills conducted by the Chinese People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command are aimed at warning and containing "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to defend China's national sovereignty and uphold national unity, foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a press briefing. "Japan has no right to point fingers at this, still less interfere with it," he said in response to media reports that the Japanese side had expressed its concerns to China through diplomatic channels over the drills. Guo said the Chinese side expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition and had lodged serious protests with the Japanese side. Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The Taiwan question is at the core of China's core interests, and bears on the political foundation of China-Japan relations and basic trust between the two countries. The spokesperson pointed out that Japan committed innumerable crimes during its colonial rule over Taiwan of 50 years, and bears serious historical responsibilities to the Chinese people. "It should act all the more prudently." This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-fascist War. "We urge Japan to deeply reflect on history, uphold the principles in the four political documents between China and Japan and honor its solemn commitments on the Taiwan question, immediately stop interfering in China's internal affairs, and abide by the one-China principle with concrete actions," Guo said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. At the Samarkand Climate Forum, Odile Renaud-Basso, President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), emphasized the urgent need for a green transition in Central Asia, a region she described as "on the front line of the climate crisis." In her speech, Renaud-Basso highlighted the severe environmental challenges faced by the region, including rising temperatures, melting glaciers, droughts, and shrinking river flows. These impacts, she stated, "jeopardize energy security, agricultural productivity, and livelihoods across the region." Renaud-Basso noted that these climate challenges are not hypothetical risks, but current realities that disrupt services and damage assets. "The scale of this challenge is indeed formidable," she remarked. However, she also framed the green transition as a significant opportunity for growth. "Investing in green technologies and a green economy creates jobs, attracts investment, increases competitiveness, and generates growth. In short, it improves economic resilience and energy security." The EBRD has been actively supporting Central Asias green transition, Renaud-Basso said, citing that 61% of the banks projects last year were in the green sector. She outlined several key initiatives, such as EBRDs work in the Kyrgyz Republic to improve water management through new technologies and tariff reforms. In Uzbekistan, the EBRD is helping the country meet its ambitious climate goals, having already financed over three gigawatts of renewable energy projects. The bank is also supporting the construction of the region's first green hydrogen facility and the largest battery energy storage system. "In Kazakhstan, we are supporting competitive auctions for 6.8 gigawatts of new renewable energy capacity," Renaud-Basso shared, emphasizing the importance of creating a policy environment that attracts private sector investment. Additionally, through green city programs, the EBRD is assisting cities in Central Asia in developing action plans that catalyze investment for sustainable urban infrastructure and climate action. However, Renaud-Basso stressed that the path forward requires more than just policy and investmentit requires strong collaboration. She advocated for the establishment of country platforms, which would bring together governments, the private sector, financiers, and other stakeholders to align efforts and mobilize resources. "Country platforms play a transformative role by delivering climate planning, regulatory support, and technical assistance, and they can mobilize private capital for climate action," she said. The EBRD has successfully supported such platforms in Turkiye, Egypt, and North Macedonia, and Renaud-Basso expressed her belief that this model holds significant promise for Central Asia. "We are exploring this approach in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan," she noted. Chinese firm Landbridge is set to be stripped of its controversial long-term lease of the Port of Darwin regardless of who wins the election, with the two main major parties pledging to take control of the facility if necessary. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese dialled into ABC Darwin radio at short notice on Friday evening in a hurried bid to pre-empt a similar announcement by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, who was en route to Darwin to launch his first major national security announcement of the campaign. Dutton was preparing to announce that a Coalition government would move quickly to terminate the current lease agreement, including by taking the dramatic step of seizing control of the port if Landbridge cannot sell it to another company. The Port of Darwin was leased to the Chinese-owned Landbridge Group in 2015. Credit: Glenn Campbell The Northern Territory Country Liberal government leased the port, which sits directly opposite Darwins Larrakeyah Defence Precinct, to Landbridge for 99 years in 2015 for $506 million. Singapore: China has fired back with a 34 per cent tariff on all American goods, matching the Trump administrations latest salvo in an escalating trade war that has triggered worldwide backlash, savaged stockmarkets and intensified fears of a global recession. China announced the across-the-board tariffs on Friday evening, effective from April 10, along with a series of other measures, including adding 11 more American companies to a trade blacklist that bans them from investing in China or trading with Chinese companies. Beijings tariffs response signals it has no intention of surrendering to US President Donald Trumps punitive trade measures. Credit: Bloomberg The Commerce Ministry in Beijing also said in a notice that it will impose more export controls on rare earths, which are materials used in high-tech products such as computer chips and electric vehicle batteries. Beijings response, its most comprehensive to date in the ratcheting tit-for-tat tariff exchange, signals it has no intention of surrendering to US President Donald Trumps punitive trade measures. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Bosnia and Herzegovina is dedicated to expanding gasification across the country, Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations Stasa Kosarac stated at the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council in Baku, Trend reports. "Gasification of Republika Srpska and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a key priority at all levels of government. Our main goal is to ensure energy stability and security by advancing the decarbonization process. We remain committed to developing gas infrastructure, expanding interconnections, and making natural gas more accessible to both citizens and businesses," he said. The ministerial meetings, held on April 4 in Baku, bring together representatives from 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, as well as seven international financial institutions and 42 energy companies. Ministers, deputy ministers, and other senior officials are also in attendance. During the discussions, several agreements related to green energy are expected to be signed. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The launch of the gas interconnector with North Macedonia will further strengthen the resilience of the European energy system, said Dimitris Skalkos, Secretary General for International Economic Affairs at the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council in Baku, Trend reports. "The Southern Gas Corridor has been successfully operational for four years. With the launch of the TAP pipeline, Greece became a key player in this project. Furthermore, the construction of the Greece-Bulgaria gas interconnector, with the potential to increase its capacity from 3 to 5 billion cubic meters, the commissioning of the floating storage and regasification terminal in Alexandroupolis, and the expected completion of the gas interconnector with North Macedonia in March 2026 will further enhance the resilience of Europe's energy system," he said. The 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council are taking place in Baku on April 4. The event is attended by representatives from 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, as well as seven international financial institutions and 42 energy companies. Ministers, deputy ministers, and other high-ranking officials are also participating. During the meeting, documents related to green energy are expected to be signed. Photo: Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Kazakhstan's energy policy aims to support innovation and sustainable development, said the country's Deputy Minister of Energy Sungat Esimkhanov during the 11th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council in Baku, Trend reports. "Kazakhstan's energy policy focuses on fostering innovation and sustainable development. We are creating favorable conditions for investment in green energy and modernizing gas infrastructure, which will help reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency," he said. On April 4, Baku is hosting the 11th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. Representatives from 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, 7 international financial institutions, and 42 energy companies are attending the event. Ministers, deputy ministers, and other high-ranking officials will also be present. Documents related to green energy are expected to be signed during the meeting. If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit According to the Road Safety Authority (RSA), a third of fatalities on Irish roads last year involving drivers aged 14-18 were from Mayo. To address this major issue on our roads, AXA staged its 2025 Roadsafe Roadshow in Mayo, bringing together 1,300 Transition Year (TY) students for a powerful and emotional road safety event at the TF Royal Theatre in Castlebar. Now in its 16th year, the AXA Roadsafe Roadshow partners with Mayo County Council, An Garda Siochana and emergency services to deliver a raw, real-life depiction of the dangers on our roads. The event heard from Castlebar woman Hayley Coleman, a survivor of a road traffic collision that tragically killed her friend. Leo Lieghio, father of Marsia Lieghio, who tragically died in a road traffic accident, also shared his moving story. There was a re-enactment of a night out ending in tragedy and first-hand accounts from emergency responders who deal with road fatalities. The AXA Roadsafe Roadshow encourages the next generation of young road users to actively consider the importance of road safety and the impact that dangerous driving, speeding, substance use and distracted driving can have on themselves and others. To further support safer driving among young road users, AXA has partnered with the Irish School of Motoring (ISM) to provide the 12 essential driver training lessons at a discounted rate. Speaking at the launch of the AXA Roadsafe Roadshow, Mick Comerford, Retail Direct Director, AXA, said the statistics show the risks for young drivers. For young Mayo drivers, getting behind the wheel of a car for the first time and learning to drive is an exciting milestone in their lives. However, with that additional independence comes a responsibility to drive safely for yourself and for all road users. Our data shows that young drivers are significantly more likely to be involved in road accidents than older drivers. "The AXA Roadsafe Roadshow aims to provide young people on the verge of learning to drive with an honest and unfiltered account of how dangerous driving can destroy lives. Frances Mitchell, Road Safety Officer with Mayo County Council, said the hope is that young motorists will pay heed to the hard-hitting messages. This is a very hard-hitting and informative Roadshow and is aimed at young drivers starting out on their driving journey to adopt a more responsible attitude in terms of their own driving behaviour. Speeding, driving under the influence of drink and or drugs, dangerous driving and distracted driving can have a devastating impact on both the driver and other road users. The AXA Roadsafe Roadshow aims to encourage the next generation of young road users to actively think about the importance of road safety and to make the best choice. Allentown, PA (18103) Today Mostly sunny and pleasant with refreshingly low humidity! Great weather to celebrate the 4th of July!. Tonight Mostly clear skies and very comfortable overnight. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Croatia strengthens its energy sector position through cooperation with Azerbaijan, said Vedran Spehar, State Secretary of the Ministry of Economy of Croatia, during the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Consultative Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Consultative Council in Baku, Trend reports. "Croatia is committed to ensuring clean and affordable energy while transitioning to a green economy in line with Europes climate policy by 2050. Through the REPowerEU program, we are becoming a regional energy hub by expanding our LNG terminal to 6.1 billion cubic meters by 2026, with investments of 559 million euros. We are also investing in new pipelines in Slovenia and Hungary. Our partnership with Azerbaijan, strengthened since 2024 through gas supplies from SOCAR, supports key projects like the Southern Gas Corridor and the Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline," he said. The 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Consultative Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Consultative Council are taking place in Baku on April 4. Representatives from 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, along with seven international financial institutions and 42 energy companies, are attending the event. Ministers, deputy ministers, and other high-ranking officials are participating. Documents related to green energy are expected to be signed during the meeting. Reading, PA (19601) Today Mostly sunny and pleasant with refreshingly low humidity! Great weather to celebrate the 4th of July!. Tonight Mostly clear skies and very comfortable overnight. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. A reliable energy partnership is the foundation of relations between the European Union and Azerbaijan, said Petr Binhack, Deputy Director General of the Department of Energy at the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, during the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council in Baku, Trend reports. "We believe that the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council meeting offers an important opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen our cooperation. At the same time, we see significant potential for the development of green energy and international collaboration in this area," he said. The 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council are being held in Baku on April 4th. The event is attended by representatives from 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, 7 international financial institutions, and 42 energy companies. Ministers, deputy ministers, and other high-ranking officials are participating in the event. During the meeting, documents related to green energy are expected to be signed. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The issues of natural gas supply and transportation were discussed between seniors of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) and Romania, SOCAR President Rovshan Najaf wrote on his X page, Trend reports. "During the meeting with Romanian Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja, we specifically noted the high-level bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Romania. Within the framework of the meeting, we exchanged views on SOCAR's activities in Romania, natural gas supply and transportation, as well as other issues of mutual interest," Najaf said. To note, SOCAR penetrated the Romanian market via its subsidiary SOCAR Petroleum S.A. in 2011, subsequently establishing a robust infrastructure of fuel distribution points across the country. Consequently, it emerged as a significant stakeholder within the fuel distribution sector in Romania. To date, SOCAR's capital infusion into the Romanian economic landscape has catalyzed the creation of roughly 800 employment opportunities, with a trajectory of ongoing expansion. SOCAR boasts an extensive infrastructure comprising 79 operational stations across Romania, complemented by a strategic network of four logistics hubs located in Teius, Onesti, Constanta, and Ploiesti. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has granted a regional loan of up to 120 million euros to AFI Europe to support its development projects across Serbia, Poland, Romania, and Czechia, Trend reports. The loan will help AFI, a leading real estate developer and operator, expand its portfolio of residential and commercial properties in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). All buildings financed through this loan will meet high sustainability standards, aligning with the EBRDs Green Economy Transition approach. AFI has committed to implementing a Corporate Climate Governance action plan with EBRD support, ensuring compliance with the EUs upcoming Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and enhancing its environmental, social, and governance strategy. Vlaho Kojakovic, EBRD Head of Real Estate, highlighted that the financing aligns with the EBRDs Real Estate Sector Strategy 2025-29, which prioritizes investments in green transition, human capital resilience, and housing affordability. Kojakovic also noted that the EBRDs support will help expand AFIs private rented sector (PRS) portfolio in Poland, Czech Republic, Serbia, and Romania. Anat Dafna, AFI Group CFO, expressed excitement about the new partnership, which will strengthen the company's liquidity and support its sustainability efforts. AFI is focused on expanding its portfolio across CEE, particularly in office and residential rental sectors. AFI Europe is a major developer and landlord of commercial real estate in CEE, with a focus on offices, residential rental projects, and select shopping malls and retail parks. The company is incorporated in the Netherlands and fully owned by AFI Properties Ltd, an Israeli real estate group listed on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Azerbaijan's Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov held a meeting with German business representatives as part of their visit to the country, Trend reports via the Ministry of Economy. The meeting provided information about the favorable investment environment for international partners in Azerbaijan. Moreover, it was emphasized that as a result of sustainable economic reforms, there has been annual growth in the non-oil economy and exports. Macroeconomic stability and human capital development further expand Azerbaijan's economic opportunities. The meeting noted that the successful experience of cooperation with German companies stimulates the development of relations in various sectors of the economy. Ongoing projects in Azerbaijan for the development of renewable energy were discussed, and the partnership in the energy sector between the European Union and Azerbaijan was highlighted. The meeting included an exchange of views on issues related to encouraging mutual investments and potential joint projects. In 2024, the volume of foreign direct investments of Germany in the Azerbaijani economy amounted to $75.3 million, rising by $48.8 million, or 2.8 times, compared to 2023. However, Azerbaijan invested $22.9 million in the economy of Germany (year-on-year hike by $16.6 million or 41.9 percent). Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Informal Steering Committee on Caspian-Black Sea-Europe Green Energy Corridor was held within the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council in Baku , Trend reports via the Azerbaijani Ministry of Energy At the meeting, Azerbaijan was represented by Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov, Georgia by Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Vakhtang Tsintsadze, Romania by Minister of Energy Sebastian-Ioan Burduja, Hungary by State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Boglarka Illes, and Bulgaria by Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov. EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jorgensen, Joint Venture (GECO Power Company), transmission system operators, and CESI attended the meeting. After the meeting in Hungary last month, today's meeting focused on the progress on Bulgaria's integration into the project, the fiber-optic component of the corridor, and the preparation of the necessary application for the project's inclusion in the EU's Ten-Year Network Development Plan (TYNDP). The possibilities of using European Union (EU) financial instruments were discussed. Creating a roadmap that reflects the phased development of the project for GECO Power Company was mentioned as one of the positive steps. The importance of completing the feasibility study by the middle of this year was noted. It was noted that the Agreement on a Strategic Partnership in the Field of Green Energy Development and Transmission between the Governments of Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary was signed in Bucharest on December 17, 2022, and within this agreement, 10 Steering Committee/Ministerial Meetings were held over the past period. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Less distraction from your phone may take some conscious changes in your behavior, a new study suggests. A city responding to a lead crisis in schools reached out to the CDC for help. The agencys lead experts were just fired Judge orders US government to return man who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador by end of Monday You are here: World Flash Quake-affected people rest at a temporary shelter in Mandalay, Myanmar, April 3, 2025. The death toll from a 7.9-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has risen to 3,145, with 4,589 people injured and 221 missing, the Myanmar Radio and Television reported on Thursday. (Photo by Myo Kyaw Soe/Xinhua) The death toll from a 7.9-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has risen to 3,145, with 4,589 people injured and 221 missing, the Myanmar Radio and Television reported on Thursday. The Myanmar Fire Services Department, in collaboration with international rescue teams, has been carrying out search and rescue operations, the report said. So far, they have saved 653 people trapped under debris and recovered 626 bodies, it added. As of Thursday morning, Myanmar has experienced 66 aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 2.8 to 7.5, according to the country's Department of Meteorology and Hydrology. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) Rovshan Najaf met with Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Romanian Chimcomplex S.A. company Stefan Vuza, a source in SOCAR told Trend. According to the source, the meeting highlighted the importance of the existing relations between the companies and emphasized the importance of the discussions held during the meeting. During the conversation, information was provided on the general activities and plans of the companies, opportunities for cooperation in the petrochemical sector were discussed, and views were exchanged on other issues of mutual interest. SOCAR penetrated the Romanian market via its subsidiary SOCAR Petroleum S.A. in 2011, subsequently establishing a robust infrastructure of fuel distribution points across the country. Consequently, it emerged as a significant stakeholder within the fuel distribution sector in Romania. To date, SOCAR's capital infusion into the Romanian economic landscape has catalyzed the creation of roughly 800 employment opportunities, with a trajectory of ongoing expansion. SOCAR boasts an extensive infrastructure comprising 79 operational stations across Romania, complemented by a strategic network of four logistics hubs located in Teius, Onesti, Constanta, and Ploiesti. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel German troops in Lithuania (AP Photo/Mindaugas Kulbis) After the federal election and the approval of the largest war credits since the Nazis, Germanys ruling class is systematically pursuing its war offensive. This centres on military expansion to the east and war preparations against the nuclear power, Russia. On Tuesday, acting Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (Greens) travelled to Kiev. There she assured the Ukrainian regime, which is riddled with right-wing extremists, of further German and European support for the NATO war against Russia. While deceitfully claiming that Kiev was ready for a ceasefire without preconditions, she declared threateningly: Putin, on the other hand, is playing for time and continuing his war of aggression in violation of international law. Putin cannot be trusted in this situation. Under these conditions, she said, there could be no lifting of sanctions. Coming from Baerbock, any references to international law, democracy or human rights are hypocritical provocations. She is one of the most aggressive supporters of Israels genocide against the Palestinians and openly justifies Israeli strikes against civilian sites that regularly kill hundreds of civilians, including many women and children. Just a few days ago, Baerbock paid another visit to the Syrian HTS regime and its leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani (real name Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa) and promised him a further 300 million in support. She delivered the hospitality gift shortly after al-Jolanis militias, which are close to al-Qaeda, had slaughtered more than a thousand members of the Alawite minority in pogrom-like massacres. Baerbocks propaganda about international law also rings completely hollow with regard to Russia. In fact, the Western imperialist powers are the main aggressors in Ukraine and Eastern Europe, not Moscow. With the systematic military encirclement of Russia, the NATO powers deliberately provoked the reactionary invasion by the Putin regime on February 24, 2022. Since then, they have continued to escalate the conflict. Above all, Germany and the EU are responding to the direct negotiations between President Donald Trump and Putin with a further escalation of the war. In an official Foreign Ministry post on X, Baerbock announced: Thanks to the reform of the debt brake, we can continue to support the Ukrainian military in the next few years and expand our European security architecture. We want to use this to reach more than 3 percent of GDP for our defence capability in the next few years. In other words, the largest German rearmament package since the Nazi era is directly serving to escalate the war against Russia. The amendment to the constitution, which was supported by the Greens and the Left Party, exempts all defence spending above 1 percent of GDP from the strict limits imposed by the debt brake and allows it to rise without constraint. The 3 percent brought into play by Baerbock is therefore just a start. After the meeting in Kiev, Ukrainian President and de facto dictator Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude for Baerbocks support, writing that Germany was leading in Europe in terms of the scope of aid to Ukrainefrom financial support and weapons to strengthening our air defence. This includes six IRIS-T systems, three Patriot systems and Gepard anti-aircraft guns. He was grateful to the Bundestag [parliament] for the decision to provide Ukraine with a further 3 billion euros. This meant that German support this year will amount to 7 billion euros. Regarding the incoming German government, a grand coalition of the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Social Democrats (SPD), Zelenskyi said he was hopeful it would also supply the infamous Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv. We will work on it, he replied when asked whether he expected Chancellor-designate Friedrich Merz (CDU], to decide quickly when he took office. He said talks were already underway, but that he did not want to comment on details before Merz became chancellor. At the beginning of the election campaign, Merz had already spoken out in favour of the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles and thus in favour of a massive escalation of the war offensive against Russia. The Taurus has a range of over 500 kilometres and can attack targets deep inside Russia, including the capital Moscow. On the same day that Baerbock visited Kiev, the planned German combat brigade in Lithuania was formally put into service. According to a press release from the German Army, the unit was transitioning to the regular brigade staff with a military roll-out at the duty station in Vilnius. This meant that the new Panzerbrigade 45 has been officially established as a major military unit of the German Army. In addition, the brigades medical centre in Rokantiskes and a staff support and communications company in Nemencine have been set up. Now the German units are to grow quickly. According to the army, around 500 members of the brigade will be serving in Lithuania by the end of the year. Then more and more troops will gradually be relocated from Germany until the target size of 4,800 soldiers and 200 civilian employees is reached. The armys press release leaves no doubt that the first deployment of German combat troops to Eastern Europe since the end of World War II is part of a comprehensive preparation for war against Russia. In the summer of 2023, Defence Minister Pistorius (Social Democrat, SPD) had decided to permanently station a German combat brigade in Lithuania, it states. This meant that Germany is taking responsibility within NATO. Beyond the brigade in Lithuania, the Bundeswehr (Armed Forces) will be visible in numerous exercises in Lithuania this year. For example, the Rapid Forces Division will take part in the Griffin Lightning exercise in May with around 700 soldiers and in the Swift Response exercise with up to 500 soldiers. In addition, the 37th Armoured Brigade Freistaat Sachsen will participate in the Grand Eagle II exercise with up to 1,000 soldiers in September. Eighty years after the fall of the Third Reich and the most horrific crimes in human historythe Holocaust of 6 million Jews and Hitlers war of annihilation against the Soviet Unionnothing less than the complete unleashing of German militarism, including nuclear armament, is on the agenda once again. In particular, the warmongers in the media leave no doubt about this. A commentary in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) rants against the fetters of the Two Plus Four Treaty, i.e., the accord signed in Moscow on September 12, 1990, between the governments of West and East Germany, as well as France, the Soviet Union, Britain and the US, which was long regarded as the final peace settlement of the Second World War. The treaty limited Germanys options if it has to defend itself against Russia, explains the FAZ. German war propagandists always talk about defence when they mean attack, and the author of the quoted commentary, Rainer Muller, makes no secret of his revanchist mindset. It was only with the Two Plus Four Agreement that Germany gained the unification of the Federal Republic [West Germany] and the GDR [East Germany] and state sovereignty, which many no longer thought possible, but at a price that went beyond the eastern territories, he complains. Germany agreed to renounce nuclear, biological and chemical weapons and to a ceiling on its armed forces of 370,000 soldiers. The message is clear: to build up a nuclear war force armed to the teethMuller brings up the figure of 500,000 soldiersthe treaty must be broken if necessary. In contrast to Trump and Putin, Germany liked to act as a paragon of international law, but must not go under in the process, warns the FAZ. The other establishment media are also in war mode. The cover of the current issue of Germanys leading news weekly Der Spiegel shows chancellor-to-be Merz and President of the European Commission and former Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen (both CDU) in Bundeswehr uniforms in front of a camouflage background. Below them is the question War-ready? The cover story concludes that even the war credits that have just been set in motion are not enough to make Germany truly fit for war. The authors complain: The weak points are enormous: when it comes to missiles, air defence, cyber defence and satellites, Europe is largely defenceless. For decades, virtually everything was neglected or overlooked or left to the Americans. Suddenly, a trillion euros for new defence spending doesnt sound like such a lot: each new Leopard tank costs around 25 million euros, each Eurofighter around 140 million. And even if there was a lot of money, it took people to build, programme and operate the weapons systems. In another essay in the same issue, editor Lothar Gorris asks: Are we willing to send our children to war? The former anti-NATO and anti-nuclear demonstrator answers the question unequivocally with Yes. In doing so, he speaks for an entire affluent upper middle-class milieu that was formerly pacifist but is now willing to step over the corpses of its own children to further the predatory interests of German imperialism. Gorris cynically calls this a personal turning point. At the same time, he admits that his 18-year-old son was not exactly enthusiastic in response to his question whether he had ever thought about [joining] the Bundeswehr. There is enormous opposition to militarism and war among the population and especially among young people. To confront this madness, they must turn to a socialist perspective and orient themselves towards the international working class. This is what the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party) and its youth and student organisation the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) are fighting for. Thousands of South Australian teachers on strike, November 9, 2023. [Photo: Facebook/Australian Education Union (SA)] The Committee for Public Education (CFPE) held an important meeting on Sunday, March 23, titled, Build Rank-and-File Committees, Oppose the Accelerating Assault on Public Education! Educators, students, and workers attended the meeting, from across Australia and internationally. The reports and discussions outlined the crisis in public education and emphasised the urgent need for educators to form independent organisations of struggle to counter the widening attacks on public education and democratic rights. The meeting was chaired by Patrick OConnor, a public-school teacher and member of the Socialist Equality Partys National Committee. OConnor introduced the discussion by referencing the CFPEs 2025 statement, which detailed the unprecedented crisis in Australian public education. He outlined key analyses from the statement, emphasising the necessity of forming rank-and-file committees to unite teachers, educators, families, and working-class supporters of public education. The opening report was delivered by Renae Cassimeda, a Californian teacher and regular writer for the World Socialist Web Site. Cassimedas report focused on the deepening crisis in public education and democratic rights under the fascist Trump administration and the necessity for the working class to challenge capitalism fighting for an internationalist socialist program. She highlighted the global nature of the education crisis, orchestrated by ruling elites to divert vast social resources into the hands of the financial oligarchy while preparing for a third world war. Cassimeda detailed the devastating cuts to education programs since Trumps inauguration, particularly the closure of the US Department of Education by executive order. She explained: The attack on education is part of a broader assault on social, political, and constitutional rights, with immigrant families living in fear of deportation and democratic rights under siege, particularly on university campuses, where students and staff speaking out against genocide face repression. Cassimeda said that the unions are telling educators to focus on begging and letter writing campaigns to appeal to the representatives of the financial oligarchy. The aim is to prevent nationwide strikes and ensure that the deepening opposition to the Trump administration is straitjacketed. Ann Arbor educators protest spending outside Pioneer High School in Michigan, May 20, 2024. The speaker emphasised the bipartisan nature of the attacks, referencing the support in the Senate by the Democrats for: An Enabling act which essentially gives Trump and Elon Musk a blank cheque to slash social programs, purge federal employees and lay the groundwork for a police state. The crisis in world capitalism, she explained, is fuelling a social counterrevolution, making extreme inequality incompatible with democracy. The ruling class understands that an educated population threatens its interests, which is why, under Trump, schools are being transformed from centres of learning into hubs of fascist and religious indoctrination, with critical thinking and culture under attack. She cited Thomas Jefferson, who famously argued that an educated populace is the most effective defence against tyranny. Universal public education, a core ideal of the Enlightenment, has long been seen as essential to democracy and a safeguard against authoritarianism. The historic rights that the working class has fought for are being eroded. Young peoples future and the very social right to a public education and for an educated population are at stake. The second report was delivered by Sue Phillips, CFPE national convenor, teacher, and long-standing SEP National Committee member. Phillips described public education as a system crumbling under the weight of deliberate neglect, political expediency, and escalating policies aimed at privatisation and integrating schools and universities into the demands of business and the war machine. She emphasised that the Trump agenda is not an aberration but part of an international process already unfolding in Australia. Policies from both Labor and Liberal governments have deliberately funnelled students and funding into private schools, creating a semi-privatised, socially segregated system that is deeply inequitable. Australia now has one of the highest rates of private school enrolment in the OECD, with more than 40 percent of secondary students attending private institutions. A 2024 OECD report found that Australia spends 0.7 percent of its gross domestic product on private educationmore than double the OECD average of 0.3 percent. With child poverty on the rise, many working-class families are struggling to make ends meet, leading to economic stress, frustration, and alienation that can spill over into the school environment. More families are relying on school charities and even taking out loans to afford basic materials like uniforms, books and excursions. Foodbank Victoria is currently distributing 71 percent more food than they did during the pandemic and 116 percent more than the monthly average during the Black Summer bushfires. [Photo: Facebook/Foodbank Australia] Phillips explained the terrible situation in schools with untenable workloads, increasing class sizes and a lack of much needed resources. This was the result of decades of sell-out agreements by the teacher unions who have worked loyally with every state and federal government. Phillips addressed the issue of increasing violence in schools, noting that its causes are complex and tied to broader social factors such as inequality, poverty and the normalisation of violence and war. She explained, Every day, students enter our classrooms carrying the weight of capitalist society. Beyond school, the world is engulfed in war, genocide and political bullying at the highest levels of government. Phillips concluded by calling on teachers, students and workers to join the CFPE and establish rank-and-file committees in workplaces, stating: The time for half-measures and reliance on the failing union apparatus is over. The future of public education, the well-being of our educators and the prospects of our children depend on our willingness to take bold and independent action. The future is in our hands. During the discussion following the reports, Cassimeda responded to questions by elaborating on the curricula changes being implemented by Trump. She provided examples of attacks on public education by both Democratic and Republican administrations, detailing the assault on public education including under Obama and Biden. A high school teacher in regional Australia spoke about the rise in school violence, explaining that before the pandemic, police were never called to his school, but now it is a regular occurrence, with students bringing weapons and threatening harm. He noted that childrenand even their parentshave lived their entire lives in a state of war, normalizing violence. At the end of the meeting, two resolutions were unanimously adopted. The first resolution, moved by secondary teacher and SEP member Will Marshall, called for the mobilisation of the working class in defence of its democratic rights to oppose war and to defend all those victimised for speaking out against the genocide rejecting the lie that opposition to Zionist war crimes is antisemitic. In particular, the resolution declared support for anti-genocide activist Randa Abdel-Fattah an outspoken critic of Zionism and academic from Macquarie University who has been subjected to an extended witch hunt and has now had her research funding frozen after intervention by the federal Labor government. The resolution also endorsed a previous resolution passed by the US Educators Rank-and-File Committee and the International Youth and Students for Social Equality that demanded the immediate release of Mahmoud Khalil and all university students and workers persecuted by the Trump administration for exercising their right to free speech against the US-backed Israeli genocide in Gaza. The final resolution was moved by Cheryl Crisp, SEP (Australia) national secretary. In speaking to the resolution, she explained the background to the ban on the SEP standing candidates in federal elections with its party name on the ballot, despite it having met all of the onerous requirements. This underlined the fear in the ruling elites, desperate to impose an array of anti-democratic measures to block a political movement in the working class fighting for a socialist and internationalist perspective. The resolution stated: This meeting of the CFPE condemns and calls for the immediate reversal of the rejection by the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) of the Socialist Equality Partys application for official party registration, despite the SEP meeting all the onerous requirements. Under Australias anti-democratic electoral laws, the AEC decision, unless overturned, means that the SEPs candidates for the imminent federal election will not have the partys name on the ballot papers. That will deny the SEPs fundamental democratic right to advance its socialist alternative against the entire political establishment and its agenda of genocide, war and austerity. It will also deny voters of their right to identify, on the ballot papers, the only party that is fighting to mobilise the working class as part of the struggle to develop a unified international anti-war movement based on a socialist program. Authorised by Cheryl Crisp for the Socialist Equality Party, Level 1/457-459 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills, NSW, 2010, Australia. Frances Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls in Paris January 7, 2025 [AP Photo/Ludovic Marin] Frances Overseas Minister Manuel Valls returned to New Caledonia this week for four days of talks on the French Pacific territorys future. Valls previously visited the capital Noumea between February 22 and March 1 to convene multi-party discussions, ostensibly to initiate a new agreement on the colonys political status, following months of widespread civil unrest by indigenous Kanak youth. That meeting involved representatives of all the colonys establishment parties, including pro-France Loyalists and factions of the pro-independence movement. That had not happened since 2021 following three referenda on self-determination, the last of which was boycotted by the Kanak community. The participants insisted that the initial round of talks were only discussions, not formal negotiations. Valls published a synthesis paper summing up the pro-France and pro-independence camps opposed views, which was put forward as a working basis for the more advanced talks. With the opposing camps holding, for now, entrenched positions, Valls, a former prime minister during the Hollande Socialist Party presidency, has adopted a superficially conciliatory approach. Interviewed by Le Monde ahead of his first visit, he spoke about the provisions of the 1988 power sharing Noumea Accord, noting the Accords reference to eventual full and complete sovereignty and decolonisation. Valls statement provoked hostile protests from the Loyalist factions on his previous arrival. In a statement before the latest meeting, Valls said the talks had a clear objective: delineate the fresh horizons of New Caledonia and map out the contours of a shared future after clarifying everyones expectations, without any taboos or detours. The statement also affirmed President Emmanuel Macrons priority for Frances Indo-Pacific Strategy, declaring: Our exchanges concerning New Caledonias competencies in international relations were marked by a shared commitment: advancing New Caledonias interests while ensuring Frances strategic security. Valls warned that any actions or alliances that harm Frances strategic interests, particularly those that side with foreign powers seeking to weaken us, will not be tolerated. France, determined to ensure its position as an Indo-Pacific power amid escalating US-led preparations for war against China, will not relinquish its hold over the strategically vital territory. New Caledonia is home to a major French military base and holds nearly a quarter of the worlds reserves of nickel, essential in the manufacture of stainless steel and in the defence industry. In an interview with French media outlets in March, Valls said the situation in New Caledonia was not yet appeased and that a comprehensive agreement on the territorys future was still remote. Even though we managed to get all political forces to speak to each other again, we are still far from an agreement. One has to understand the fear all of our compatriots over there, and especially those of European origin, have gone through. And to understand also the Kanaks aspiration to emancipation and decolonization, he added. The latest talks, held behind closed doors at the French High Commission, reportedly centred on the definition of New Caledonias future links with France, the possible transfer of powers from Paris, New Caledonian citizenship, and the related question of who is eligible to vote in local elections. New Caledonias status remains to be determined. Options include shared sovereignty, full independence or a free association, similar to New Zealands neo-colonial arrangement with its so-called Realm countries, the Cook Islands and Niue. New Caledonias main pro-independence organisation, the Kanak Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS) issued a blunt statement condemning any move to open up the local electoral roll to recent arrivals from France. The issue triggered the uprising last May, which continued for months in the face of brutal police-military suppression by the French state. Opposing the granting of votes to post-1998 immigrants, the FLNKS declared it rejects the principle of mass naturalisation, which would weaken the emancipation project derived from the Noumea Accord, by allowing recent residents to influence the political future of New Caledonia. In a process of decolonisation, citizenship is not built on residence or taxation alone. It is based on history, belonging, and mutual respect. Departing Noumea on Tuesday, Valls told the media that all parties of the political landscape, both pro-France and pro-independence, were once again part of the series of round tables. An official document, which remains confidential, has been tabled for a third sequence of discussions beginning on 29 April. What the talks will not address, let alone resolve, is the deep economic and social crisis hitting the colony, and in particular the impoverished working class and youth. The issues behind the unrest including poverty, social inequality, unemployment and social desperation remain. The rebellion brought a substantial section of Kanak youth into conflict, not only with French colonial oppression, but with the territorys political establishment, including the local government and the FLNKS. January saw a sharp shift to the right by the local ruling elite. Following the territorial governments collapse on Christmas Eve, the new cabinet installed anti-independence loyalist Alcide Ponga, the first Kanak to lead the pro-France Le Rassemblement party, as its new president. Ponga replaced Louis Mapou of the pro-independence Parti de Liberation Kanak (Palika), who bitterly declared; Its a dirty political blow to the country. Congress last month adopted an austerity budget. With businesses failing and thousands unemployed, the government is cutting public services. A spokesman for the pro-independence Union Caledonienne (UC), Pierre-Chanel Tutugoro, denounced the budget as an anti-Kanak, anti-islander budget. In fact, the austerity measures are an attack against the entire working class, including workers in France and internationally, who are being made to pay for the worsening global economic crisis. The crisis in the colony has been exacerbated by the months of violence, including the brutal police-military crackdown, which resulted in 14 deaths and an estimated 2.2 billion in damages. Nearly a year since the unrest started, unemployment remains high. One in five workers has lost all or part of their income and more than half of the 11,000 people who lost their jobs after last May were still unemployed at the start of this year. University of New Caledonia economist Severine Blaise told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation the economic situation was catastrophic. She said the local government should focus on strengthening social security for people struggling to make a living, and invest in sectors that might promote economic development, such as agriculture. This is a forlorn hope. Migration figures earlier this year showed a net 10,700 people, mainly French nationals, departed the territory in 2024, a dramatic population decline for the territory of just 270,000. A shortage of doctors and nurses has left health services on the verge of collapse. About 20 percent of the 1,000 locally registered doctors have left, according to the French Medical Association of New Caledonia. A similar shortage of surgical nurses has forced Noumeas hospital to close departments and stop some surgeries. The nickel industry, which in the past accounted for about 20 percent of GDP and 90 percent of exports, is in crisis. It was already in decline before the uprising due to global competition from suppliers in China and Indonesia. Since then, exports have dropped and two of the main smelters have been idled. One of these is Koniambo Nickel SAS (KNS) owned by Swiss mining giant Glencore in a joint venture with Kanak-owned Societe Miniere du Sud Pacifique SA (SMSP). Last year Glencore announced it would suspend production and sell its stake, leaving 1,000 workers jobless. Koniambo was a product of the economic rebalancing agenda of the Noumea Accord, established to provide business opportunities for a privileged Kanak layer. Its unviability is testament to the fraudulent promise of Kanak independence. Simmering tensions could erupt again at any time. Last month, in an incident outside a Noumea nightclub, up to 400 youths were involved in a public brawl. Law enforcement units were called and declared they found themselves in a dangerous situation confronted with hostile individuals and used teargas and stun-balls. The French High Commissioners chief of staff Anais Ait Mansour told reporters the reintroduction of restrictive measures used under last years insurrectional situation would again be under consideration. Workers picket at UC San Diego Health Hillcrest Medical Center, February 27, 2025. On Tuesday, University of California (UC) workers carried out a one-day strike across the university systems 10 campuses statewide. The action followed two and three day strikes conducted at the end of February. The 57,000 workers, members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 3299 and the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE-CWA), are demanding better working conditions. The prevailing sentiment among workers from both AFSCME to UPTE, is that they should be earning $50 an hour just to afford basic living expenses in some of the most expensive regions in the country. We have had no contract; theyre making us pay for parking and raising the cost of our health insurance, with no raises, Maria, a patient care worker with AFSCME at UC San Diego said. Theres a hiring freeze, while the hospital system buys more properties and is opening more locations. See that new facility they are building over there? We will be expected to work it, even though we are already stretched thin. We have each person doing the work of two to three people. Its unfair. Workers who spoke with the WSWS readily drew the connection between their struggle and the broader fight of the working class against the Trump administration, which is slashing the federal workforce, attacking immigrants and attempting to set up a presidential dictatorship. The UC system has been a hotbed of class struggle in recent years, with repeated strikes by graduate students and others. The UC administration and the California Democratic Party have also played a leading role in the mass repression of student protests against the Gaza genocide. For sure, it is connected to the attacks on immigrants, Maria continued. Life for everyone is so unfair, theres no way to live like this. Im a single mother, no one is going to save us, we have to stand up for ourselves. I have to rely on my family because were pushed into impossible, impossible conditions; its not living. Most workers here are at minimum wage; and theyre the ones cleaning up the feces, vomit, etc. But UC is increasing our insurance premiums, we have to pay hundreds of dollars a month on parking. We need higher wages that keeps up with the economy and the cost of living. Another patient care worker at UC San Diego summed up broader sentiment when she said, I agree, we all need to unite against Trump. The deportations and attacks on workers are horrible. The WSWS spoke with Jack and Michelle, two members of UPTE who work in IT at the UC Irvine Medical Center in Orange, California. Names have been changed to protect workers identities. Jack told our reporters, I think there should be a general strike right now. It would be very effective in bringing things to a halt. And if the capitalists arent getting their profits because everyone stopped working, then they would see that they are at our whim. We actually run the things in this society. If theyre not receiving profits from our hard labor, then they cant do anything, and theyll beg us to come back and theyll invest in their economy to consume more and to continue with the status quo. Michelle said: I think its all terrible [what Trump is doing] with all the firings. Already the economy is so bad and people dont have livable wages. I know people who have already been laid off in SoCal, and I know the stress and the pressure that it has on families. In terms of the deportations, I feel its a human rights issue. Its terrible to just criminalize and dehumanize a whole group of people just because of their birth status. I know some people that have gotten deported accidentally, and theyre all being labeled criminals. But some of them are just people who happened to just have tattoos. Because of the tattoos, they are being labeled as criminals. They [CPB and ICE] are not even looking. Theyre just saying, thats a tattoo and youre Latino. And then people here dont know where their family members are. I saw recently on the news that they cant return them because theyve already been like paid for or something like that. So were trafficking? Human trafficking? I feel like were playing with peoples lives, people who put profit over other people are playing with all of our lives. I think its just infuriating that people who are so higher up just dont care about others or community or the impact that they have or other peoples struggles. Theres the social impact, the environmental impact, the economic impact. Because they have all the resources in the world, theyre fine. But everybody else, they can play with us like were just pieces on a chessboard. When asked about their thoughts on the Democratic Party, Jack exclaimed, Useless. Useless! What are a bunch of paddles [used by the Democrats during Trumps address to Congress] going to do! Enrique, an AFSCME worker who works in the UCI Medical Center kitchen, said, The Democrats and Republicans, hey, theyre all the same. Only business, only business. Money, money. This president wants only money. And the Democrats supported a genocide. This president doesnt pay his taxes. He never pays. Trump has millions and millions of dollars, and he never pays. He says hes broke. No way, this guy is a liar. Bureaucracy tries to rein in workers The struggle against Trump must be based on a mass movement of the working class. The UC system is Californias third-largest employer with a workforce of over 190,000 people, putting UC workers in a powerful position to play a leading role in such a movement. But this requires that workers rebel against the union bureaucracy which is attempting to sabotage their struggles. Many, including the United Auto Workers (which covers UC graduate students) and the Teamsters, openly support Trumps nationalist policies, while other are limiting their members to useless letter writing campaigns. As in February, WSWS reporters were again harassed by union leaders who tried to block political discussions on the picket lines as a separate issue, but the reporters were warmly welcomed by workers. In reality, the issues could not be more intertwined. UC President Michael Drake has said that major cuts are on the horizon as a result of the Trump administrations attacks on public education, healthcare and scientific research. Moreover, with the support of the Democrats, the Trump administration is carrying out a massive assault on free speech through deportations of international students opposed to genocide. AFSCME Local 3299 and UPTE-CWA Local 9119 together represent 57,000 workers across the 10 campuses and five hospitals. However, only a few hundred struck at each campus on Tuesday, a sharp decline from the February strikes. These dwindling numbers are not the result of a lack of a desire to fight, but rather a lack of confidence from workers that their unions and the limited Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strikes could produce any significant change in the situation. AFSCME and UPTE continue to corral workers opposition into day-long ULP strikes. This is a bureaucratic maneuver designed to prevent workers from raising economic demands. At a time of unprecedented attacks on the working class, from the mass firings and aims to dissolve the Department of Education, to the mass firings of federal workers, the trade union leadership is exposing that it will do nothing to organize its members in a mass struggle against the Trump administration. This is because such a movement would threaten the bureaucracys social and financial interests. AFSCME President Lee Saunders, who tells workers they would be fortunate to receive an 8 percent pay increase over three years, pockets at least $398,000 a year, according to federal filings. The way forward is the building of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees, an alternative structure fighting to transfer power from the apparatus to the workers themselves and which rejects America First in favor of the global unity of the working class. A UC Workers Rank-and-File Committee must be built in order to link up with workers across the US and the world in a common fight against Trump and the oligarchs. For more information about building a committee at your workplace, fill out the form below. The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) and the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) will hold public meetings in Colombo, Jaffna and Matara as part of our campaign for the May 6 local government (LG) elections in Sri Lanka. The SEP is fielding a total of 34 candidates on slates in Karainagar Divisional Council, the war-ravaged Jaffna district and the Kolonnawa Urban Council in the suburbs of Colombo. The partys election statement, which outlines a socialist and internationalist program for the working class, has already been issued and is being discussed by our candidates with workers and young people. The SEP and the IYSSE are the only organisations telling the truth to the working people. The SEP opposes the nationalist demagogy of President Dissanayake and his Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna/National Peoples Power (JVP/NPP), the opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and other parties, including the fake-left Frontline Socialist Party-led Peoples Struggle Alliance. The SEP explains that the burning problems facing working people cannot be solved on a national basis or under the capitalist system. The SEP was the only party that warned the working class about the right-wing, pro-imperialist nature of the JVP/NPP during last years elections. From its inception Dissanayakes government, with the direct and indirect support of all the opposition parties, has focused on enforcing the International Monetary Funds brutal austerity measures. The working class is not just facing the JVP/NPP regime and the Sri Lanka capitalist class but global finance capital and all imperialist agencies. Sri Lankas local elections are occurring amid a deepening global capitalist crisis, with US imperialism at its centre. US President Trump is using fascist methods, expelling immigrants, eliminating social services, launching trade war on all countries and escalating war preparations, particularly against China, which is driving the planet towards a catastrophic Third World War. The working class needs a program grounded on Trotskyism, the Marxism of today, to fight capitalist barbarism. The SEP urges workers to break from all capitalist parties and their abetters and independently mobilise their political and industrial strength and unite with the international working class on a socialist program. They must rally in support of the rural masses and develop a broad-based nationwide struggle against the Dissanayake governments austerity measures and attacks on democratic and social rights. The SEP/IYSSE election campaign fights to educate workers of the necessity to establish their own independent action committees in all workplaces, and for small farmers to organise similar committees, in united action for their social and democratic rights. This perspective is a part of the SEPs call for the establishment of a Democratic and Socialist Congress of Workers and Rural Masses, based on democratically elected delegates from these action committees. Our perspective is to take forward the struggle for a workers and farmers government to refashion society to meet the needs of the majority and as part of the fight for international socialism. We urge workers, youth, intellectuals and WSWS readers to attend these important public meetings and participate in the broadest possible discussion of the partys political program. We also urge you to contact the SEP and IYSSE and give the widest support to our campaign. Jaffna Meeting venue: YMCA Auditorium (Near Government Agent Office) in Jaffna Date and time: April 7 at 3.30 p.m. Colombo Meeting venue: Colombo Public Library Auditorium Date and time: April 9 at 4.30 p.m. Matara Meeting venue: Post Office Auditorium in Matara Date and time: April 26 at 3.00 p.m. Our contact numbers and email address: WhatsApp number: 0773562327 Email: wswscmb@sltnet.lk Ursula von der Leyen presents the new Commission and its program ahead of the vote in the European Parliament [Photo by Europaische Union, 2024 - EP] European Union (EU) officials responded to global tariffs imposed by the Trump administration yesterday by moving to impose tens of billions of euros in tariffs on US products. With Washington now imposing a 20 percent tariff on all EU goods and a 25 percent tariff on European auto exports, US-EU ties are suffering a historic breakdown, and a trade war is being set into motion, threatening unprecedented attacks on workers in America, Europe and internationally. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen spoke this morning from Uzbekistan, where she is attending a Central Asia-EU summit, appealing to Washington for talks while threatening a first raft of 26 billion in EU tariffs. Asking Trump to move from confrontation to negotiation, she said, We are already finalizing a first package of countermeasures in response to tariffs on steel. And we are now preparing for further countermeasures to protect our interests and our businesses if negotiations fail. Vast numbers of goods and jobs are at stake. US-EU trade reached 1.6 trillion in 2023, including 851 billion in goods and 746 billion in services. While Europe ran a 153 billion trade surplus in goods, mainly in cars, machinery, aerospace and pharmaceuticals, it ran a 109 billion deficit in services, driven mainly by purchases of services by US banks and tech firms. The United States and the EU have invested over 5 trillion in each others financial markets. The EUs first wave of tariffs target US goods, including jeans, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, steel, aluminum and agricultural goods. The EU may also invoke its so-called Anti-Coercion Instrument (ACI), a 2023 law to coordinate trade war measures against countries the EU considers are seeking to economically coerce it. This would let EU countries cut payments to US banks and tech firms for financial services or intellectual property rights. For now, uncertainty prevails in European ruling circles as to what sort of deal they can negotiate with Trump and how quickly and deeply trade war measures will undermine Europes economy. Dutch bank ING estimated that a 25 percent US tariff would cut 19 percent of EU goods exports to the United States. The value of these lost sales, at around 100 billion, is 0.87 percent of EU Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, there would be far broader economic knock-on effects as workers in affected industries are fired, their income and purchasing power collapse, and the US and EU potentially impose further rounds of tariffs on each other. ING said it is impossible for now to quantify the economic collapse the tariff tsunami will cause. Financial analysts are raising concerns over German car exports, with tariffs expected to largely price them out of US markets. Tariffs on automotive exports present a major challenge for Germanys economy, said Daniel Parker of Capital Economics. Stuttgart, Upper Bavaria, and the Braunschweig regionwhich includes Wolfsburgare likely to suffer the most pronounced impacts. Auto plants and parts suppliers in Germany and across Europe, notably in Slovakia, Hungary and Austria, would also be badly hit. EU officials, together with broad sections of the European corporate and political establishment, are calling on Trump to come to reason and grant a deal reconciling US and European interests. EU Council President and former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa told Euronews: [US-EU] trade relations represent 30 percent of global trade [and] 40 percent of global GDP, so it wont just affect Europe and the United States, it will affect everyone. So its a big mistake. ... We must respond in a firm but also smart manner. That means we must reach a negotiated solution in the common and mutual interest of the United States and Europe. Whatever deals the EU may make with Trump, however, they will not restore the US-European alliance and economic equilibrium as it existed in the decades after World War II. Not only do US and European imperialist interests clash, but trade war measures will vastly intensify economic hardships facing workers on both sides of the Atlantic. The Trump administrations foreign policy is indubitably hostile to Europe. Beyond its tariffs, it is threatening to take Greenland from Denmark and aims to plunder hundreds of billions of dollars of Ukrainian mineral resources that the EU hoped to also seize in the Ukraine-Russia war. However, the US-EU conflict does not flow simply from the mindset of Americas far-right president but from objectively rooted interimperialist contradictions between America and Europe. Trumps trade war marks an eruption of US-European tensions that twice in the 20th century exploded into world wars. His trade war aims to address Americas relative economic decline, reducing its deepening budget and trade deficits, while defending US military dominance by consolidating US military supply chains. The EU powers, on the other hand, have been discussing for nearly a decade how to consolidate their industry and build European military forces ultimately to rival Americas. While governments on both sides of the Atlantic are formally preparing for negotiations, hostile statements are mounting on both sides. Yesterday, acting German Economy Minister Robert Habeck denounced Trumps tariffs, comparing them to the Russian invasion of Ukraine that the EU opposed militarily. He said the tariffs recall the beginning of our time in office, especially with the war of aggression against Ukraine and the threatening situation with natural gas. Yesterday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with NATO foreign ministers in Brussels, who agreed on a target of spending 5 percent of GDP on the militarywhich would require savage social attacks on workers in Europe. However, US officials reportedly objected to EU plans to build up its defense industry with an 800 billion rearmament package, by blocking EU purchases of US weapons systems. European diplomats demanded to be consulted on US plans to move weapons systems out of Europe to the Pacific to target China. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot had, however, traveled to China last week, seeking closer ties with Beijing on trade policy. He asked his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, to help end the tariffs China imposed on French alcoholic beverages after France voted for EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and to pressure Moscow to include EU powers in the Ukraine negotiations. Wang called for multilateralism over unilateralism in world affairs, while Barrot said that a number of major principles, particularly those of multilateralism, are being shaken. While conflicts are mounting between the imperialist powers, workers on both sides of the Atlantic face similar prospects of mounting attacks on their basic social and democratic rights. The first stage of the trade war threatens US workers with devastating price increases and layoffs, while European workers face vast job losses. The EU estimates that 5 million jobs in Europe depend on exports to the United States, while 2.4 million US jobs depend on exports to Europe. The trade war is confronting the working class with the fundamental incompatibility of modern economic life and globalized productive forces with the capitalist nation-state system. Faced with the coming social and economic onslaught, it is critical to reject attempts by the bourgeoisie to divide the working class along national lines, by pressing workers to support their own capitalist governments trade war policies. Explosive class battles will emerge as workers oppose the social attacks flowing from the trade war and militarization. The critical question is unifying these struggles across national lines, in particular, by uniting American and European workers in a socialist struggle by the working class to take control of economic production out of the hands of the rival capitalist oligarchies and instead subordinate it to social need, not private profit. Shift change at Stellantis Windsor Assembly, April 3, 2025 Only a few hours after President Donald Trumps Liberation Day tariffs were announced, workers across North America began experiencing the consequences. Stellantis will temporarily idle its Windsor Assembly Plant in Canada and Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico. About 4,500 workers in Windsor will be impacted. Some 2,600 are employed at the Toluca facility. In the United States, Stellantis is laying off 900 workers at factories which supply both the Canadian and Mexican plants. Workers at the Warren and Sterling Heights stamping plants outside of Detroit, and two transmission factories and one casting plant in Kokomo, Indiana are among those that will be impacted in the US by the layoffs. In a statement to Stellantis employees, head of North American operations Antonio Filosa said, With the new automotive sector tariffs now in effect, it will take our collective resilience and discipline to push through this challenging time. He continued, But we will quickly adapt to these policy changes and will protect our company, maintain our competitive edge and continue delivering great products to our customers. The Stellantis executive added that the company was still assessing the long-term impact of the tariffs but had decided to take certain immediate actions by idling the Windsor and Toluca plants. The cuts are the predictable result of the disruption caused by the tariffs, which amount to a declaration of economic war by the Trump administration against the rest of the world. Despite the lying claims by United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain that the tariffs will lead to more jobs for American workers, the reality is the working class will pay the price both in higher prices and layoffs. Any production reshored to the US, moreover, will come with demands for lower wages and other concessions. Trump, who has the support of major union heads, including Fain and Teamsters President Sean OBrien, is aiming to create a fortress North America in preparation for world war against its global capitalist rivals. Fain has claimed that Trumpwho is witch-hunting immigrants, deporting students for opposing the US-backed Israeli genocide, firing thousands of federal workers and erecting a fascist dictatorshipis fighting for the working class by waging trade war. In response to the layoff announcements, Fain issued a defensive statement feigning shock and blaming Stellantis management for the cuts, while not mentioning the tariffs at all. Stellantis continues to play games with workers lives, Fain said. As weve shown time and again, theyve got the money, the capacity, the product, and the workforce to employ thousands more UAW members in Michigan, Indiana, and beyond. These layoffs are a completely unnecessary choice that the company is making. The UAW bureaucrat predictably said nothing about the loss of workers jobs in Canada and Mexico. These cuts are only a foretaste of the jobs bloodbath that is coming. In reality there is no such thing as an American car. Every vehicle that rolls off the assembly line represents the collective labor of workers all over the world united in a globally interconnected chain of production. Tariffs will disrupt production and lead to economic collapse. If not stopped by the intervention of the working class this path leads to trade war and world war as the experience of the 1930s testifies. A World Socialist Web Site Autoworker Newsletter reporting team spoke to workers at the Stellantis Windsor Assembly Plant Thursday. Referring to Fains support for trade war, one worker said, That reflects upon their ignorance. The auto industry is too tied together and integrated. Its going to affect his own members. Multi-billion-dollar companies are going to exacerbate the recession to the point that tariffs could possibly cause a depression like they did back in the 1930s. The collaboration of workers across borders would work. Another worker added, Its not a tax against us (Canada), its a tax against the American people. Its going to hurt both sides. There are five plants in the states where there are going to be layoffs and a few in Mexico. We are so closely integrated and we are in profit-driven industry. I dont blame the American people, its completely out of their control. Weve worked together for decades. We cant be at each others throats. Asked if workers should have a global strategy to fight the global corporations, he said, Absolutely. Thats what the unions are supposed to do for us. But us, as workers, we can take it a step further. A younger worker said, This trade war is garbage. All the tariffs need to be finished right now. I just started this job six or seven months ago and I didnt think Id be getting laid off this soon. Windsor Stellantis workers reading the WSWS Autoworker Newsletter denouncing the UAW's backing of Trump's tariffs and calling for the unity of US, Canadian and Mexican workers Another worker said, I love my American brothers and sisters. I am grateful to live next to America, but I disagree with the tariffs they are imposing on us. I wont let them divide us and will do everything to fight that. A trade war is not good for anyone including the United States. Its a shortsighted solution for a big problem. Workers should be working together, we should not be pit against each other. My plant has been here for over a hundred years. We are not taking any jobs from people in the United States. Its just not possible, its just not true. Us in a trade war only hurts all of us. The US, Canada and Mexican workers should be together. Our economies are all integrated together. No less hostile to a unified movement of the working class than the UAW bureaucracy, the Canadian auto union called for retaliatory tariffs against the US. Canada needs to respond swiftly and strategically to halt Trumps attempt to steal jobs and pick off industries one by one, Unifor President Lana Payne said. These cuts in North America follow the announcement by Stellantis that it has scrapped plans for a battery plant and parts distribution center in Belvidere, Illinois, and scaled back plans for reopening its idled Belvidere assembly plant. The factory is supposed to open in 2027 with only 1,500 workers returning. The decision to reopen the plantwhich employed 4,000 workers in the 1980swas the centerpiece of the supposed victory of Fains bogus Stand Up strike in 2023. After the wave of mass layoffs that followed the sellout agreement and Stellantis decision to put the Belvidere reopening on hold, the UAW launched the Keep the Promise campaign, which consisted of filing grievances and holding votes to authorize a strike, which the UAW bureaucracy never intended to call. Fain attributed the resignation of Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares last December to his publicity stunt campaign and then told workers to place their faith in Stellantis new North American executives to work with the union to reopen the Belvidere plant and save American jobs. In the runup to these new job cuts, the UAW worked with Stellantis to press workers in Michigan and Ohio to accept buyouts to proactively reduce headcounts. With a large selloff on Wall Street and increasing predictions of an economic recession, job cuts are sweeping across the US. According to outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, US-based employers announced 275,240 job cuts in March, a 60 percent increase from the 172,017 cuts announced one month prior. That is a 205 percent increase from March 2024, which was the highest monthly total that year. The total included 216,215 furloughs of federal government workers. Among other job cut announcements, Whirlpool in Amana, Iowa is laying off 650 workers effective June 1, citing lower sales. Chevron meanwhile is cutting 600 jobs at its old headquarters in the San Francisco Bay Area in California. Graphic Packaging Holding Company plans to close its manufacturing location in Middletown, OH, eliminating 130 jobs. US Marines deploy along the US-Mexico border near the San Ysidro Port of Entry, Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, in San Diego. Tijuana, Mexico is seen in the background. [AP Photo/Denis Poroy] On Tuesday, multiple outlets reported that two immigrants fell off the 30-foot border wall at the US-Mexico border in San Ysidro, California, leading to the death of one. According to a US Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) spokesperson, at around 11 p.m. Monday evening agents discovered both immigrants on the ground after they fell. One of them was unresponsive and later pronounced dead upon arrival to the hospital, while the other suffered unspecified injuries. These deaths and injuries are entirely preventable and the fault of both the Democrats and Republicans who have poured billions of dollars into militarizing and shutting down the border as part of a broader war on the democratic rights of the entire working class. While CBP and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) do not record deaths or injuries suffered by immigrants from falling, in 2022 UC San Diego Medical Centers trauma ward reported a fivefold increase in injuries from falling from the wall, with deaths going from zero to 16 within a couple of years after the height of the wall was raised from 8 feet to 17 feet to 30 feet in 2019. In 2024, Scripps Mercy Hospital and UC San Diego Health reported a 58 percent increase in falls, with 524 people suffering injuries or death after plunging off the structure, nearly two a day. This figure is nearly triple the 189 falls Scripps recorded in 2023, and more than double the 239 falls recorded in 2022. Despite the most recent death, in the last two months falls from the border wall have actually decreased, with Scripps reporting only 10 incidents in January 2025 and no falls in February 2025. This is due in part to the deployment of thousands of active-duty troops and materiel to the border, including surveillance drones, soldiers, Stryker combat vehicles and concertina wire and other fortifications which have compelled immigrants to find alternate routes into the country. Shortly after taking office, Trump shut down the CBP One mobile app which was effectively the only way people could make asylum claims and schedule appointments with immigration officials. This outright denial of peoples right to claim asylum violates international law, including the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The shutting down of legal pathways forces desperate refugees and immigrants escaping poverty, violence and social instability to risk their lives through harrowing ordeals that entail extreme risk of injury or death. Left unsaid in the corporate press is the role of US imperialism in devastating large swaths of the globe, forcing immigrants to flee in the first place. These policies compel immigrants to seek more rural passages into the country, which are much more dangerous and result in a slower response time in case of a medical emergency. Recently, three immigrants attempting to cross into the US near San Diego passed away in the Otay Mountains wilderness due to a storm that brought near freezing conditions on March 14. In a statement, the US Border Patrol said that people who travel through the Otay Mountains often face the risk of dehydration, starvation, heatstroke, and hypothermia. The journey across the US-Mexico border through non-official routes is so risky it is considered the worlds deadliest land route for migrants. In 2022, the International Organization for Immigration (IOM) documented 686 deaths and disappearances of migrants along the border. While comprehensive figures are not available yet for 2024, in the first eight months of the year, New Mexico reported 108 deaths of probable migrants along its border. This figure is more than 10 times what the state recorded in 2020 (nine) and 2019 (10). In 2023, the state reported 117 deaths over the year. In addition to blocking virtually all entry into the United States, the Trump administration is continuing its fascistic campaign targeting immigrants within the United States regardless of legal status. A growing number of students and workers who have lived in the US for decades have been disappeared or kidnapped by ICE agents across the country. Rumeysa Ozturk, 30, a Fulbright scholar and student at Tufts University, remains imprisoned in an ICE detention facility in Louisiana after being kidnapped outside her home in Somerville, Massachusetts by the immigration Gestapo last week. At a court hearing Thursday challenging her unlawful detention and kidnapping, lawyers for Ozturk read a statement she prepared from inside the facility. I am a Ph.D. student working with children and youth, she wrote, adding: We know that injustice in the world and systemic brutality towards people of color has long-lasting negative effects on children, youth, and other communities. My life is committed to choosing peaceful and inclusive ways to meet the needs of children. I believe the world is a more beautiful and peaceful place when we listen to each other and allow different perspectives to be in the room. Writing is one of the most peaceful ways of addressing systemic inequality. Efforts to target me because of my op-ed in the Tufts Daily calling for the equal dignity and humanity of all people will not deter me from my commitment to advocate for the rights of youth and children. Despite a judge ordering Ozturk to remain in Massachusetts following her abduction, ICE thugs quickly moved her to Louisiana within 24 hours of her kidnapping. Ozturks lawyers claim that family, friends and counsel could not locate or speak with her during this time. Once they did locate her, they discovered she had suffered an asthma attack while en route to Louisiana. She subsequently suffered two more asthma attacks and has been unable to access her required medications. Ozturk has not been accused of a crime and it seems she was targeted solely for co-authoring an op-ed which called on Tufts University President Sunil Kumar to uphold resolutions passed by the Tufts Community Union Senate. The resolutions passed by the students called on Kumar to recognize the genocide in Gaza, divest from companies that support it and stop selling products from Sabra due to their outsized support for the Israeli military. The op-ed was not antisemitic and did not evince any support for Hamas or the Axis of Resistance On Thursday, the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Michigan posted an alert that Wayne State University police were targeting Muslim and Arab students on campus demanding that they provide their name and identification and answer questions about a peaceful First Amendment Action that occurred on WSU Campus yesterday (April 2). Arizona Luminaria reported on Tuesday that eight international students at Arizona State University, located in Tempe, had their student visas recently revoked by the Trump administration. A spokesperson for the university told Luminaria, These were not protest related. Michael Kinstsher, an ASU graduate and president of United Campus Workers of Arizona, told the outlet that international students were being targeted and harassed on campus. The letter I have seen do not contain any reason for the visa being revoked, Kinstcher told the outlet. In addition to students, long-time residents are also being viciously targeted by the immigration Gestapo. Newsweek first reported on Tuesday that Angela Cristina Gonzalez Cardona, 50, a mother who has lived in the United States for nearly four decades was abducted by ICE agents on March 26 as she was leaving her driveway to go to work. In footage obtained by Newsweek, Cardona is seen hugging her youngest son, 22, who is autistic, before masked ICE agents handcuff her and take her away. In an interview with Newsweek, Claudia Gonzalez, Cardonas daughter, recalled that ICE agents said they were not leaving the property empty-handed. Gonzalez, who was not home at the time, but spoke to family members who were, said ICE agents surrounded her moms car as she was trying to leave. She recalled the agents tried to take her mothers boyfriend, but he was telling them he was a US citizen and showed his Texas ID. Gonzalez, 26, explained that her mother has lived in the US since she was 11 years old and that she was legally allowed to be in the United States pending a decision on her Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) application. Under VAWA, immigrants who have been victims of sexual crimes or domestic abuse can apply to stay in the US. Gonzalez said that ICE agents were not interested in her mothers legal claims and refused to allow her to enter her home to obtain the paperwork to prove her case. She asked to at least allow my little brother to take her things before she was taken in, Gonzalez told Newsweek. She complied every step of the way. She assumed theyd give her a chance to show those documents but never allowed her to come back inside her home. Cardona is currently incarcerated in a for-profit concentration camp run by CoreCivic. Conditions inside detention facilities are not only inhumane, but deadly. At least two men have died at the Krome detention camp in Miami, Florida this year. Despite the facility nominally being for men only, at least four women who did not have a criminal record were recently detained there. Recounting their horror to USA Today, the women recalled being taken to the facility on a bus that did not have a bathroom. The women were chained at the wrist, waist and chest for up to 12 hours on their way to the prison. Since there was no access to a toilet, the guards instructed the women to urinate or defecate on the floor. Upon arriving at the facility, one woman described being pushed in a room, filled with women like sardines in a jar. I will never forget those first seconds when I heard the door behind me locked. All four women said they had no access to potable water and one claimed she was fed nothing for 36 hours. In an audio recording obtained by USA Today, one of the women describes how the guards refused to provide Benadryl unless she faked a serious illness. I was told by guards that if I wanted anything I needed to pretend I had a seizure and fall down. She said, Everyone acts like were animals or something. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Opportunities for cooperation in the renewable energy sector were discussed between Azerbaijan and Moldova, Azerbaijan's Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov said in a post on his official X page, Trend reports. "In our meeting with Dorin Junghietu, Moldovas Minister of Energy, we explored joint economic activities between our countries and potential collaboration within Azerbaijans renewable energy projects and initiatives," he said. To note, the meeting took place within the framework of the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting held in Baku. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Australian Amphibious Force soldiers and Indonesian National Armed Forces on beach landing training during Talisman Sabre 2023 exercises. [Photo: Twitter @AustralianArmy] The official Australian election campaign, as its being waged by the major parties and the corporate media, is a fairy tale. Under conditions of huge global shocks and instability, Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Liberal-National Coalition leader Peter Dutton are presenting Australia as the land of exception, which will be unscathed by the developing international storms. This is a fraud on every level, economic, social and political, but most glaringly on the question of militarism and war, which the major parties are trying to exclude from the campaign entirely. The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) is the only party sounding the alarm. As we warn in our election statement: A new world war has not yet been declared. But the world is at war. The same contradictions that led to two catastrophic conflagrations last century are preparing a third, but this one would begin with nuclear weapons and would threaten the very existence of humanity. The SEP is not only issuing these necessary and urgent warnings. Together with our sister parties in the world Trotskyist movement, we are fighting to build the international anti-war movement of the working class that can and must prevent the disaster that capitalism is tobogganing towards and guarantee a future for humanity. These are not far away questions. Contrary to the official depictions, Australia is already involved in war globally. Under the Labor government, it has diplomatically, politically and materially supported some of the worst war crimes since the Holocaust, in the US-Israeli genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. Those atrocities are a signal that there are no red lines the imperialist powers will not cross, not only in the Middle East but everywhere. Australia has been one of the largest non-NATO contributors to the US proxy war against Russia in Ukraine, providing more than $1.5 billion, most of it in offensive weaponry. The claims that this war has been about defending little Ukraine are a fraud. Russias reactionary invasion was deliberately provoked by the US and NATO, which wanted to inflict a catastrophic defeat on Moscow as part of their drive to control the Eurasian landmass. For the major powers, the defeat of Russia is just a stepping stone to war with China, which is viewed as the chief threat to American imperialist dominance. It is in Asia that Australia is playing a linchpin role as an attack dog of Washington and a frontline state for war with China. On that, as on every aspect of war, there is not a slither of difference between Labor and the Coalition. Both are champions of the US-Australia alliance and of deepening ties with Washington, previously under Genocide Joe Biden and now under the fascist gangster Donald Trump. The bipartisanship is demonstrated by the AUKUS pact with the US and the UK, which is the crucial mechanism for militarising the Indo-Pacific in preparation for war against China. AUKUS was initiated under former Coalition Prime Minister Scott Morrison, and has been the central priority of Albaneses Labor government since it came to office in May, 2022. Key to AUKUS is Australias acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines from the US, before jointly building a new design with the UK, at a combined cost of $368 billion. When speaking of the AUKUS subs, government officials present them as a defensive capability. But, in little reported comments earlier this week, Morrison, untethered by the obligations of office, blurted out the real purpose of the subs: for Australia to join an offensive war against China. The point about nuclear-powered submarines is they can go anywhere, and they can go anywhere you need them to go, and to do so stealthily, Morrison told the Kyodo Times. And there was already a destination in mind. The Taiwan Strait and the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea present potential flashpoints and conflicts which could very much draw Australia in, Morrison stated. Those are flashpoints that have been deliberately inflamed by successive US administrations. They have promoted Taiwanese separatism, including by providing Taipei with advanced weaponry, despite previous US governments and the international community having recognised Taiwan as part of China. And they have encouraged Japanese claims to ownership of the Senkakus, which are also claimed by China. The Taiwan Strait is 7,382 kilometres from Australia. The narrow waterway between Taiwan and China extends to the Chinese mainland. The Senkaku Islands are 5,781 kilometres from Australia, but 330 kilometres from China. What Morrison was admitting is that the entire purpose of the nuclear-powered subs is to stalk the Chinese coast, in preparation for joining a massive US-led onslaught on the Chinese navy and the Chinese mainland. The AUKUS subs are just one component of a broader militarisation. The Labor government has completed Australias transformation into a launching pad for war throughout the Indo-Pacific. US basing in the north and west of the continent has been massively expanded, included through the stationing of strike capabilities that potentially carry nuclear weapons. Every branch of the military is being equipped with missiles, for impactful projection across the region. Already, Labor has taken annual military spending to more than $56 billion. But far more is being demanded. Behind the backs of the population, a frenetic discussion is underway in ruling circles over an even greater militarisation that must occur once the election is out of the way. There is a broad consensus in strategic circles, that military spending must be boosted to 2.5 percent of gross domestic product immediately. That would mean an additional $14 billion a year. But the US has publicly demanded 3 percent, which could see defence spending skyrocket to $100 billion or more annually by the end of the decade. That means huge cuts to education, healthcare and social services. And as in the US, under Trump, it means a turn to dictatorship. That was spelt out in a comment this week by war hawk and retired major-general Mick Ryan. He wrote that the military build-up had to be a whole-of-nation undertaking, not just a Defence endeavour. The Australian people needed to be told the perils we face and the resources that are required. Ryan stated: Australia urgently needs a mobilisation plan; that is, to appropriate all national assetspeople, resources, science and technology for an expanded defence capacity in a conflict. That is a proposal for military rule, with literally every aspect of society subordinated to war. Ryan demanded a a serious debate about national service, i.e., conscription of youth for war, which he said is uncontroversial in many other democracies. This agenda will provoke widespread opposition from workers and young people. But that opposition must be based on a clear political program and perspective. For 18 months, there have been major protests against the genocide in Gaza. But those protests have been derailed by the Greens and pseudo-left groups, who have insisted that all that can be done is to appeal to the Albanese government, which is facilitating the genocide, to change course. That is a deliberate dead-end, aimed at subordinating opposition to the very political establishment that is on the war path. The alternative is the fight for a socialist and internationalist perspective. The SEP fights for these principles as the basis of a new anti-war movement: The struggle against war must be based on the working class, the great revolutionary force in society, uniting behind it all progressive elements in the population. The new anti-war movement must be anti-capitalist and socialist, since there can be no serious struggle against war except in the fight to end the dictatorship of finance capital and the economic system that is the fundamental cause of militarism and war. The new anti-war movement must therefore, of necessity, be completely and unequivocally independent of, and hostile to, all political parties and organisations of the capitalist class. The new anti-war movement must, above all, be international, mobilising the vast power of the working class in a unified global struggle against imperialism. Support our election campaign and join the SEP to take forward this crucial struggle! Authorised by Cheryl Crisp for the Socialist Equality Party, Level 1/457-459 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills, NSW, 2010, Australia. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Agreements on three solar energy projects were signed in Baku as part of the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov and CEO of the company Eldar Mammadzade signed the Investment Agreement relating to the Ufuq Solar PV Project with a capacity of 50 MW in the Republic of Azerbaijan between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Enerso Jabrayil LLC. Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov and CEO of the company Khayala Nagiyeva signed Investment Agreement relating to the Shams Solar PV Project with a capacity of 50 MW in the Republic of Azerbaijan between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Clean Energy Jabrayil LLC. Deputy Energy Minister Elnur Soltanov and CEO of Nobel Energy Limited Vugar Samadli signed Implementation Agreement relating to the Assessment, Development and Implementation of 30 MW Solar Plant in the Republic of Azerbaijan (Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic) between the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Nobel Energy Limited. As a result of the implementation of the projects that are of importantance in terms of the development of the green energy zone, an annual output of 268 million kWh of electricity is expected, which will allow saving 59 million cubic meters of gas and reducing 128 000 tons of carbon emissions. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) is poised to play a crucial role in Europes transition to a low-carbon future, said TAP CEO Luca Schieppati during the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Advisory Council on Green Energy, held in Baku, Trend reports. TAP supports Europes decarbonization efforts. By gradually increasing our current capacity, we can continue to help Europe achieve its energy security and decarbonization goals, he said. Schieppati emphasized that TAP is fully committed to supporting Albanias gasification and economic growth, contributing to a sustainable and secure energy future for the country. TAP is ready to play a key role in Europes transition to a low-carbon future, both in the short and long term, he added. Additionally, Schieppati mentioned that, under certain conditions, TAP will be capable of transporting hydrogen and biomethane, further contributing to the regions decarbonization efforts. After going weeks without being paid, Interval Coffee employees closed the coffee shop's Bay View and East Side locations. The shops could reopen when the owner returns from a trip abroad. Signs appeared on the doors of both locations on March 28 stating that the cafes were closed and employees were not being paid. The signs also shared employee Venmo accounts and Instagram pages, asking the public to support them. Interval Coffee, 1600 N. Jackson St., sits closed on April 1, 2025. It closed after employees had gone unpaid for weeks. Ashley Pappalardo, a barista trainer at Interval, said staff received their last paycheck on March 7 and their March 21 paycheck never came. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think we are all in shock," she said. Employees decided to close the coffee shop a week after missing their paycheck. Pappalardo said the door signs were posted to let customers know Interval would be closed temporarily, but they were not intended to imply that Interval would be closed permanently. She said they were waiting to learn more information from the owner. Owner Ryan Hoban told the Journal Sentinel via email that he was in Honduras sourcing coffee. He said the cafes are closed while he is out of the country, but he plans to reopen them once he returns. PRF Honduras, a coffee sourcing trip in Honduras on March 27 and 28, listed Hoban as an attendee, promoting his other business, Neighborly Coffee subscription. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pappalardo said that some employees have moved on, especially those who rely on Interval for a majority of their income. But Pappalardo, who currently works for the company part time, said she would return if the payment issue was resolved and changes were made to ensure it didn't happen again. "Most of us work there for the people who work there. All of my best friends that I've made since I've moved back to Milwaukee after school have been through the Interval community," she said. "I can't speak for everyone, but many of us do hope that Interval reopens. This is an unfortunate moment, regardless." Aside from the latest incident, public records show that Interval Coffee has had a slew of financial troubles in the last few years. The departments of Revenue and Workforce Development have filed a total of 37 complaints against Interval Inc. since 2019 for tax delinquency, according to Wisconsin court records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaints prior to 2024 have been satisfied, but the two state entities have filed 15 complaints since March 2024, totaling more than $75,000 in delinquencies that have not been satisfied, according to records. The Department of Workforce Development additionally had filed six cases against Hoban for tax delinquencies on unemployment compensation from 2021 to 2023. He satisfied all that debt, totaling $18,616, as of July 2024. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Employees close Interval Coffee after going unpaid for weeks Michael B. Jordan took on double duty for upcoming horror film Sinners, playing twin brothers Smoke and Stack in the Ryan Coogler-helmed project. Somebody told me something about another guy walking around here looking like me, its crazy, the star joked at Thursdays New York premiere of the movie, which is set in the 1930s South and sees the brothers leave their troubled lives behind to start over in their hometown, only to encounter a greater evil upon their arrival. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordan told The Hollywood Reporter on the carpet that the biggest challenge of playing twins was the technicality of how we shot both characters. I did every scene like four times, fives times, so I think the balance between going back and forth was difficult at times but you find a rhythm and after a while it was second nature. I had a lot of fun. Michael B. Jordan talks about the technicality that came with playing a dual character in the #SinnersMovie pic.twitter.com/6sL0SLWJDi The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) April 4, 2025 The film also deals with the supernatural and involves vampires, with Jordan pointing to Vampire in Brooklyn and Lost Boys as two of his favorite films in the bloodsucker genre. Those are two ones that were pretty dope for me and I loved the cast and the storyline, he added. Eddie [Murphy] was so smooth in Vampire in Brooklyn; seeing yourself as a vampire was pretty cool. Hailee Steinfeld, Miles Caton, Jack OConnell, Wunmi Mosaku and Delroy Lindo co-star in the film, with the latter speaking about the musical elements present in the story. Delroy Lindo reveals the highlights of working with Ryan Coogler on #SinnersMovie pic.twitter.com/KbQZwlpmxi The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) April 3, 2025 Its central to the foundation of this narrative, its central to the history of this culture and central to the history of this country, Lindo said, as Wunmi Mosaku added that theres blues music throughout the whole movie, which helps provide for a unique combination rooted in community, love, music, inspiration, ancestry, hope and then also vampires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OConnell teased that he was living my best Beyonce life on this one when it came to the musical scenes, and promised viewers whatever you think it is, think again. But guaranteed its a good night out or day, whenever youre going to see it. Sinners hits theaters April 18. Neha Joy contributed to this report. Director Ryan Coogler joins the cast of #Sinners at the NY premiere pic.twitter.com/0ArbStnp2a The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) April 3, 2025 Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. A memorandum of understanding has been signed between Azerbaijan and Slovenia, Azerbaijan's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov wrote on X, Trend reports. "We signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between the relevant ministries of the two countries and the Minister of Environment, Climate and Energy of Slovenia, Bojan Kumer. This document supports the development of energy relations between Azerbaijan and Slovenia in the field of natural gas and renewable energy within the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting," the post reads. Michael B. Jordan doubled down on his role of Smoke and Stack at the NYC premiere of his and Ryan Cooglers Sinners film on Thursday night (April 3). Delivering not one but two red carpet looks, the 38-year-old actor pulled off a slick outfit change mid-event at Manhattans AMC Lincoln Square, playfully posing twice and even giving a joint interview. Sinners is a vampire thriller that sees Jordan take on the challenge of playing identical twin brothers, Smoke and Stack. Jordans characters attempt to leave behind their troubled past by returning home for a fresh startonly to be met by an even greater evil lurking in the shadows. To distinguish between the twins, Jordans first look included a tailored navy blue and black suit with grills on his side teeth. For his second look, he sported a brown leather ensemble with black shades. Among the red carpet were the films stars including writer-director Ryan Coogler as well as Hailee Steinfeld, Miles Caton, Jack OConnell, Wunmi Mosaku, Li Jun Li, Jayme Lawson, Omar Benson Miller, Delroy Lindo, and more. Others celebs in attendance included Danielle Brooks, Les Twins, Loren Lott, Millyz, Ludwig Goransson, Benny Boom and others, amongst his supportive mother, brother, and sister Jamila Jordan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordan told The Hollywood Reporter on the carpet that the biggest challenge of playing twins was the technicality of how we shot both characters. He added, I did every scene like four times, fives times, so I think the balance between going back and forth was difficult at times but you find a rhythm and after a while it was second nature. I had a lot of fun. Check out the star-studded red carpet for the Sinners NYC premiere below. The film hits IMAX theaters on April 18. More from VIBE.com Sign up for Vibe's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 27,523 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others? 27,523 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others? ONE OR EIGHT is an eight-piece boy band made up of members MIZUKI, NEO, REIA, RYOTA, SOUMA, TAKERU, TSUBASA, and YUGA. Their profile is rising thanks to their debut single Dont Tell Nobody, which they released in August 2024, and the buzz generated by their collaboration with American rapper Big Sean on their song KAWASAKI (with Big Sean). On March 19, they released a new song, DSTM. It uses an authorized sample of Rihannas Dont Stop The Music and was created by Stargate, the original producer of Dont Stop The Music, together with fresh young American songwriters. Billboard Japan talked with the group about the approach they used in creating the song. Your name, ONE OR EIGHT, comes from the Japanese expression Ichi Ka Bachi Ka, right? More from Billboard Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TSUBASA: Thats right. The Japanese idiom Ichi Ka Bachi Ka, which literally translates as one or eight, means all or nothing in English. It represents our desire to use an all or nothing approach to take on the world from here in Japan. Also, were all Japanese, and Japans telephone country code is 81, so we wanted to reflect that in our name, too. What kind of spirit runs through your own activities within the group? NEO: Our tagline is BET ON YOURSELF. We want to encourage people by showing everyone how were betting on ourselves, constantly taking on new challenges with the support of the other members, staff members, and our fans. Were performing at a level now that Id never even imagined, but sometimes you can find yourself swallowed up by the whole experience. Were working hard, pushing forward and doing our best to make sure things keep going in the right direction. What would you say your strengths are as a group? REIA: Our members. I feel like, with the members we have, we can take on any challenge. Before our debut, we travelled to different countries performing at what we called STAGE ZERO events. During these events, we had to deal with all kinds of different problems, but we were able to overcome all of them by supporting each other. Youre active both in Japan and overseas. What kind of influence do you think this approach has had on ONE OR EIGHT? SOUMA: Performing overseas has expanded both our expressive range and our adaptability. For example, fans in Thailand create an incredibly welcoming atmosphere, which has helped us develop the ability to stay composed while delivering a more high-energy performance that matches their enthusiasm. In contrast, audiences in Vietnam and Japan tend to embrace us as we are, so our focus there is more on refining our performance itself. That approach has helped us grow a strong base of receptive fans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement REIA: Audience energy and the way people engage with our shows can vary greatly from place to place. In Thailand, many fans seem to be fully immersed in the moment, which brings an exciting dynamic to our performances. Just next door in Vietnam, the atmosphere is more about support and appreciation, similar to Japan. NEO: For me, live performances are like a conversation between performers and the audience. Audiences that get hyped up, like Thai audiences, are like talkative people. In our conversations with them, its like were engaging with talkative people, and that produces an exciting, fun conversation. Supportive audiences, on the other hand, are like good listeners who pay close attention to all we have to say. Thats why we fully focus on our lyrics, delivering them straight to the audiences hearts so they viscerally feel our slogan of BET ON YOURSELF. Its not a question of which type of audience is better. Instead, its about using different conversational approaches depending on the audience. I see. You released your new song, DSTM, on March 19. What were your initial impressions of the song? RYOTA: The song has a different tone than the songs weve done in the past. I felt like it had the potential to show some aspects of our appeal and some new performance approaches that wed never shown before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TAKERU: DSTM samples Rihannas Dont Stop The Music. The songs theme is about how we wont stop as long as the music keeps flowing, and also about how well have fun as we do it. I hope when people are feeling down, seeing us and our performances will put smiles on their faces, and that when they hear DSTM, it will lighten their mood and help them forget their worries. TAKERU mentioned that DSTM samples Dont Stop The Music. Dont Stop The Music, in turn, sampled Michael Jacksons Wanna Be Startin Somethin, so the music has been passed along from Michael to Rihanna to you. Did you feel like you were under any pressure because of that? TSUBASA: DSTM is tied to these huge names, so its release put a tremendous amount of pressure on us. But, at the same time, because of its new tone, with DSTM it feels like were breaking new ground and opening the way to a new era. Were here because of the music weve listened to, and as the song title says, we dont want the music to stop, but to keep going on forever. Thats the spirit with which were sharing DSTM with the world. Now youve become a part of this process of the songs transformation. What do you see as the significance of this, and what do you feel is expected of you? TSUBASA: Through our music, we want to take an all or nothing approach to challenges. If the music stops, then weve lost everything. In that sense, we have to keep on carrying the torch of the music. Thats how I see it. So, for you, these are the ideals represented by the song. What kind of back-and-forth did you have with other members and staff when working on the song? REIA: To make the song a good fit for us, we needed to preserve the essence of the original song while also giving it the energy of a ONE OR EIGHT song. Thats why Stargate, who produced the original song, and the other writers put our own story into the lyrics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MIZUKI: We also talked amongst ourselves in the group about what approach to take. The song has been performed by true giants, so we feel really grateful that virtual unknowns like us were given the opportunity to perform it. And just like Dont Stop The Music propelled Rihanna to fame, we also worked hard on the song in the hope DSTM could bring greater worldwide recognition to ONE OR EIGHT. REIA: We also really put our heart into our singing. For example, I sing a part right before the please dont stop the music line, and I made sure that my own part had just as much power as the chorus. My own vocal qualities dont pack much punch, so I accentuated my performance through physical movement. TSUBASA: I did some ad-libbing on the last chorus in a part that wasnt in the original demo. During the recording, Id felt frustrated because I just couldnt express what I was going for, so I talked to the producer, and together we created the ad-lib part. That part isnt in Rihannas Dont Stop The Music, though, so there was also a lot of pressure, because people might compare Dont Stop The Music to our DSTM. But Im really satisfied with how it turned out, so I want to keep confidently doing the ad-lib part. NEO: I do the first half of the first rap verse, and unlike TSUBASA, I found it to be a blast. One of the things thats appealing about the first verse is the use of Japanese words like katana and sumo that will be familiar to overseas listeners. Im very proud of this part, because it conveys the message and shares the feeling that this is coming from Japan. Of course, I was also nervous about including a rap part, because it isnt in the original song, but it was really fun. The rhythm is easy to get into, so even people who dont know much about hip-hop will be able to enjoy it. I hope when people hear it, theyll think to themselves dont stop this song. Thank you. In closing, what are your future goals? NEO: I want us to be the kind of group that always has fun taking on new challenges. Our groups name means all or nothing, and I want us to achieve success, no matter what, touring the world and setting our sights high. I hope there are people out there wholl see us taking on these imposing challenges and it will instill them with pride in themselves and help them feel the fun in taking on new challenges. Thats the kind of world I hope well create. I believe that, joined by colleagues and fans like that, our efforts will prove successful. Were going to do all that we can, led by our motto of BET ON YOURSELF! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This interview by Azusa Takahashi first appeared on Billboard Japan Best of Billboard Sign up for Billboard's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Hyphen Dash drummer Myshko Birchenko surveys the targeted Ukrainian city where his band recorded its new album. - Credit: Vadik Pinyagin* For anyone who loves free-form avant-jazz, Hyphen Dashs new album, Basement 626, will strike the proverbial experimental chord. Over its 17 tracks, drummer Myshko Birchenko and guitarist/loops player Yevhen Puhachov stretch out into trippy, airy new-age jazz and misty-mountain soundscapes, conjuring the improvised, on-the-fly fusion instrumental records they grew up with. But for anyone who loves the genre, theres also a major difference. The album was recorded about 10 miles from the frontlines of Ukraines war with Russia. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Long before Russia invaded the country in 2022, Ukraine had been a base for homegrown versions of punk, indie-rock, hip-hop, and EDM. Its also fostered an active scene of underground experimental musicians brought together by Fusion Jams, a music collective thats been hosting sessions in Kyiv bars and studios since 2019. Among its participants and co-organizers is Birchenko, a 29-year-old drummer who first started playing Green Day covers in local punk bands before being introduced to improvised music thanks to the likes of drummer Mark Guiliana (the award-winning percussionist who played on David Bowies last recordings). Birchenko juggles several hats: studying government management at the local university, co-running the indie label No Time for Swing, and playing drums for Ukrainian pop star Nadiia Volodymyrivna Dorofieieva, a.k.a. Dorofeeva (who comes across like the Tate McRae of her country). In 2019, he and musician friends also started Hyphen Dash to explore their love of free-form music that broke free of pop constraints. Merely playing that music was a statement in itself, says Marc Wilkins, who is directing a doc, Louder Than Bombs, about the Ukrainian music scene. In the Soviet Union, jazz was seen as a symbol of Western decadence and bourgeois culture,' he says. After independence, it became largely associated with older generations a music of the past, for people who smoke cigars and wear bow ties. For Misha and his friends, all in their mid to late twenties, it was a major challenge to reintroduce jazz and instrumental improvisation to a younger Ukrainian audience. Its a perfect example of what defines a certain part of Ukraines national music scene: the transformation of a once-suppressed genre into something vibrant, independent, and utterly inspiring. Last November, Birchenko says he and other musicians made a supportive visit to soldiers in Kramatorsk, the city in eastern Ukraine that has been slammed repeatedly by Russian forces. (In 2022, more than 50 civilians, including nine children, were killed when Russian missiles struck a train station.) On a tour of a house where one soldier was stationed, Birchenko was taken into its basement. I said, This room has great acoustics, Birchenko says in fairly fluent English. He said it was because the owner was planning to make a theater in the basement for his family and did some acoustic corrections. The full lineup of Hyphen Dash: keyboardist Polina Maiboroda, Birchenko, and guitarist Yevhen Puhachov. I said, Wow, it should be great to record an album here. And he said, If its not a joke, I will do everything on my side to make it possible. The military support those projects much better than civilians do. The military says, Okay, lets do it tomorrow. They know we live one day, and maybe tomorrow we will be killed by a rocket or some flying shit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taking his friend up on his offer, Birchenko and Puhachov raised $4,000 with the help of the Music Saves Ukraine initiative. When Hyphen Dash approached us with this idea, we immediately said yes, as it combines everything we believe in and explores the ever-growing importance of music at times of war and distress, said the organizations Mariana Mokrynska in a statement. After driving six hours from Kyiv to the house in Kramatorsk, the musicians would eat and sleep on its ground floor and record music in its basement. (Hyphen Dash has other members but the group limited the trip to those two.) I was super-afraid about my team, to be honest with you, says Birchenko, who also brought a video director. In Kyiv, you dont feel any connection to the reality. Its not real enough. We were super afraid about which music we would make. Its totally improvisational music, and it takes time. We had to be calm and take a deep breath about us. Wilkins and another filmmaker, Vadik Pinyagin, would be the only other two people in the basement with Hyphen Dash; Wilkins admits the mood was fraught. Despite having been in Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began, I had never been this close to the frontlines, he says. We were staying in a house where an active soldier was stationed, which clearly made it a potential target. I was nervous. Birchenko and Puhachov at work in their makeshift basement studio in January. Setting up their guitars, drums, and laptop in the basement, the two spent nearly a week recording 300 hours of freeform jams, many of them one take. Instead of bringing sheet music or demos, they decided to interact with soldiers and the community and make music inspired by it. One of the albums most intense tracks, Moto, conjures the intensity of Red-era King Crimson and was subconsciously inspired by the soldiers around them. They have this vibe of tough men, and we decided to play something like this, accidentally, Birchenko says. We said, Okay, it will be a rock song. (He also says the album did not result in any noise complaints from the neighbors. Maybe because we lived in a military house, he laughs.) Since the basement had a window, the musicians could hear artillery shells in the distance, although those sounds miraculously arent heard on the album. When they ventured outside, they saw bombed-out buildings, and Puhachov was once jarred by the sound of a very close bomb. (I was relieved to have a spot in the basement to sleep, says Wilkins.) At the same time, Birchenko would take morning runs to a market and find locals talking about tomato prices. No ones screaming about Putin and the war, he says. They basically get used to the bombs every five seconds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sales of Basement 626, which is named for the telephone code in Kramatorsk, will go toward military and civilian rehab centers in Ukraine. Hyphen Dash also has an album of composed music in the wings, and Birchenko admits to a degree of urgency. Thanks to his university enrollment, he can avoid military service only until he graduates in a year and a half. You dont have any ways to protect yourself from mobilization, but at the same time, you do a lot of things to support the army, he says. Its super strange. But we will do our stuff to support our people and to spread awareness about war. A lot of people around me are super exhausted and upset with the news. I decided to act, and the only way is to bring some support to the militaries and raise money. I will do so until the war will end. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. The film offers a gritty exploration of the impact of war on those who served. | Credit: BFA / A24 / Alamy Alex Garland's new film "feels like the most honest depiction of modern warfare I can recall seeing", said Robbie Collin in The Telegraph. Co-written and co-directed by Ray Mendoza, a former US navy Seal (who served as a consultant on Garland's film "Civil War"), it is based on his memories of a real-life incident: a botched engagement in the Iraqi city of Ramadi in about 2006. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the opening scene, a group of Seals descend on a civilian home in the cover of darkness, terrifying its residents; the men then set up sniper-surveillance positions from which to give cover for a ground operation, and wait. There's no banter or chat about what they'll do after the war, said Peter Bradshaw in The Guardian: just minutes of silence as they sit in a state of "hyper-alertness". Then, in a flash, disaster strikes, and all is carnage and chaos. "Warfare" is in some ways similar to the rash of war-on-terror films that came out 20 years ago, such as "The Hurt Locker"; but this film is "almost fierce in its indifference to political or historical context" (a resource that should be "more readily available" two decades on); and there is "almost no conventional narrative progression". Garland and Mendoza are "concerned only with the overwhelming, sensory journey that is conflict", said Clarisse Loughrey in The Independent. The film is all about the moment: the pain, fear and blood. In this work of "attempted neutrality", there's no musical score to manipulate viewers' emotions; none of the characters have sympathetic backstories. But the violence depicted on screen didn't erupt from nowhere; there was a path to it, and the film feels unmoored without that context. The Tourism Authority of Thailand hopes people will want to visit the country following Sunday nights third season finale of the HBO original series, The White Lotus. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has partnered with 3.1 Phillip Lim to launch its 2025 flagship campaign, Blooming Lotus: 3.1 Phillip Lim x Amazing Thailand, inspired by the HBO original series. The campaign will highlight Thailands fashion, culture and creativity. More from WWD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the centerpiece of this collaboration, TAT and 3.1 Phillip Lim have created a limited-edition collection inspired by Thailands beauty, as showcased in the TV series. The exclusive lineup captures the essence of Thailand through a curated selection of pieces, including a ribbed tank, capri pants, a T-shirt, a bomber jacket, tote bags, a duffel travel bag and a cap each designed to reflect Thailands vibrant culture. The collection will launch April 24 on 31philliplim.com and thailandInsider.com/bloominglotus. Prices range from $195 for the T-shirt to $450 for the duffel bag to $895 for the bomber jacket with the Lotus emblem. The third season of The White Lotus was filmed in Bangkok, Phuket and Ko Samui, and primarily took place at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, a five-star hotel on the islands northeastern coast. 3.1 Phillip Lim is planning a launch event at its New York store on April 24 to celebrate the collaboration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Launching the event in New York is just the beginning, said Chompu Marusachot, director of TAT New York. We are incredibly excited to partner with 3.1 Phillip Lim as our design partner and Goway Travel as our tour operator for our flagship campaign. This collaboration is a powerful fusion of fashion and travel, highlighting Thailands vibrant creativity and inspiring travelers to explore the country in a new way. At 3.1 Phillip Lim, we have always celebrated culture, craftsmanship and storytelling through fashion, said Wen Zhou, cofounder and chief executive officer of 3.1 Phillip Lim. The collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand is a tribute to Thailands breathtaking beauty and rich heritage, which is magnificently showcased in The White Lotus season three. Through this limited-edition collection, we are capturing the spirit of this magical place in the 3.1 Phillip Lim way an essential wardrobe of well-crafted pieces for the curious adventurer as she sets off to explore the world. With travel in mind, the limited-edition pieces are designed for visiting Thailands vibrant temples, walking through the countrys night markets, or exploring its bustling streets and serene landscapes. In addition, Goway Travel will offer a selection of must-do experiences in Thailand, allowing travelers to book their ideal Thailand journey. Thailand is renowned for its world-class wellness and spa offerings, available in nearly every major destination nationwide, said Anoma Vongyai, director of TAT Chicago. This campaign will also highlight those experiences the health benefits of delicious Thai cuisine, the rejuvenation of traditional massages or the ancient healing techniques that promote overall well-being. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TAT will also host a wellness and yoga event in Toronto, highlighting Thailands wellness tourism. This event will introduce guests to Thailands holistic travel experiences and demonstrate the collections versatility. Best of WWD Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The lead Sherpa team has finished fixing ropes to the summit of 6,812m Ama Dablam. Pasdawa Sherpa, Pasang Tenjing Sherpa, Arjun Karki Dholi, and Datuk Bhote, working for 8K Expeditions, reached the top of the beautiful and popular peak on the afternoon of April 2. Although the mountain is busiest from October to early December, it also sees action in spring. It is the only peak less than 8,000m in Nepal where local operators do not informally agree on the rope-fixing work. Instead, the task is officially assigned by the Expedition Operators Association of Nepal (EOA). This year, the EOA assigned Ama Dablam, as well as Everest and Lhotse, to 8K Expeditions. Everest permits Waldemar Nickevicz of Brazil holds a group Everest permit. Photo: 8K Expeditions Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the meantime, many teams are already on their way to Everest Base Camp, which is already fully set up for their arrival. Nepal's Department of Tourism has not updated its list of climbing permits since March 21, but some international expedition leaders have already posted their stamped permits on social media. In group permits for 8,000m peaks, the designed expedition leader is always a foreigner, such as Waldemar Niklevicz of Brazil -- leader of one of 8K Expedition groups -- Ben Jones of the U.S. with Alpine Ascents, or Jigar Kishorkumar Asnani of India with Satori Adventures. TUPELO Ringed by trees on the 10-acre property he shares with his wife, Steven Schneider can simply take a peek from the studio he built next to their Colorado-inspired stone-and-wood home for inspiration. Stepping out onto the back porch with a commanding view overlooking the vast agricultural fields stretching below and into the horizon, the clear turquoise of the pool is inviting, albeit it's still a bit too cool to take a dip. "It's beautiful out here, isn't it?" he says. "See that cedar over there? I think I'll paint that soon." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The setting is ideal for Schneider, who is in his element. At 70, he has an infectious enthusiasm. His eyes sparkle while describing some of his acrylic canvases. "I've been through an evolution ... mostly based on nature references," he said "I tend to go back to landscapes. It's a familiar thing. Growing up in south Louisiana, I'm greatly in love with nature. It feels good." A pre-med major with a fine art minor while in college, Schneider had a revelation while going through the rigors of his studies. While his 3.5 GPA was good, he didn't have the passion for medicine. And his art was as constant companion. "I piddled in watercolor and this and that ... and I realized I wasn't going to medical school," he said. "The art people were so much more fun, and I blame music, too, since I play a little." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After graduating from the University of Louisiana, he was associated with a gallery in Lafayette, and it didn't take long for one off his paintings to capture the interest of a buyer. "The gallery called and said, 'Somebody's really interested in your painting and wants to meet you and talk about it,'" he said with a sigh. That wasn't something he was exactly thrilled to do. "My initial thought this would be easy. I could stay at home, do these pictures and these paintings and just send then to galleries, and they sell and they send me a check," he said. "It never really worked out that way." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eventually, he overcame his own hesitation to meet and greet his potential buyers. 'I realized later on that more and more people want to engage with you, the process, what you're all about, and in most cases it's a personal thing if they're going to purchase," he said. "I'm OK with that after 40 years of doing that." Planting the seed Schneider tapped into his affinity for the creative process starting at an early age. "I drew like so many artists, and started drawing as a kid, and discovered I had an aptitude," he said. "I remember in the fourth grade, I was out on the playground drawing, and the teacher put my piece up and asked, 'Who did this?'" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That drawing, a house, planted a seed that has blossomed into a career that now finds his artwork viewed and purchased from Oxford Treehouse Gallery in Oxford, Fischer Galleries in Ridgeland, Justus Fine Art in Hot Springs, and Greg Thompson Fine Art in Little Rock. He has been inspired by a range of artists Georges Braque, the founder of Cubism; Van Gogh and his colorful impressionism; surrealists like Salvador Dali, Max Ernst and Marcel Duchamp; the abstract expressionism of Han Hofmann and the graphic styles of Andy Warhol and Franz Klein; and others. After earning a fine arts degree, Schneider studied advertising design and went into business with his brother. He later opened an ad agency, but after two years, his urge to paint was greater than ever. He wanted to be seen. "All along I was doing my art and painting, and so what I would do was keep contacting galleries and do my art," he said. "So, when I left the ad agency, it was just me. I would do an advertising piece get some money to get some chickens to throw in the freezer, buy some canvases go paint, have an art show, sell a few pieces and go back and forth between graphic design and painting. So, I guess I've been doing that since the age of 25." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And he was no starving artist. "I always managed to eat. Advertising paid the steady money," he said. One person who took interest in Schneider was his wife, Cynthia, who he met at a charity event in Lafayette, some 22 years ago. She was intrigued when she first heard about him. "I'd always heard about this very elusive, hidden away artist, a total man of mystery," she said. Cynthia owned a restaurant at the time, and the couple later moved to Donaldsonville, Louisiana, in 2004, where they opened the Schneider Art Gallery and Grapevine Cafe and Gallery and often held events together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was really neat," Steven Schneider said. "Have a little wine, a little art. It really paired well." Schneider's style Schneider's art can't be put in a single box, given his various influences. He describes himself as being "compelled to observe and document daily living." He said he draws inspiration from both the "natural and spiritual realms." His interest in plein air forms a base for his landscapes, with planar shapes combined with realistic impressions. "I did plein air painting for a while, and it's something I really enjoyed I have a lot of plein air friends but realize there are thousands of them, and I'm just OK," he said. "Within the past four years, I've tried to push a little more unique and personal." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A painting he's working on is inspired by the natural beauty of the Ozarks in northwest Arkansas, where the Schneiders lived for a decade before moving to Tupelo last year. This particular piece is an homage to the Lost Valley Trial in the Buffalo National Forest, the most popular hike in the Ozarks. With sheer rock faces, flowing water and a forested landscape, the trail is being interpreted by Schneider with the blue of the sky, the brown shadowed rock and the green trees playing off each other. Some of his paintings are referenced by photographs, and with his graphic designer skills, he's learned to manipulate the shapes and colors in order to get it to where he wants to be with his paintbrush. "I've done oil, watercolor, 3-D assemblies. Acrylic works for me. I've gotten to the point where I can develop colorizations that mimic texture and depth," he said. Another landscape called simply, Trace is inspired by the Natchez Trace. It recently hung at the GumTree Museum of Art in Tupelo, and it speaks to his use of light and shadow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The colors just sizzle off each other," Schneider said. "After years of studying art theory and plein air outdoor painting, no longer are all the shadows dark and there's just not much light ... now the shadows are luminous. "I like the light and focusing on an area where everything else sort of contributes to the lit areas," he added. "You want people to look at a painting and go, 'Wow, that's cool.' I keep wanting to get to that point where people are compelled to look at it and say, 'Wow, for some reason, I really enjoy looking at it.'" Schneider also has surrealistic paintings like a fireworks stand that caught his eye after a wedding, or a series of paintings of antique vehicles from a junkyard. What he paints is what he would want to hang in his own home, "Things that are cool and intrigue me." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, there is a 60-by-60 painting of his Martin guitar which he admits is for a very specific audience. Retirement is just a word, not a vocation, but he is trying to be "sort of retired." However, he also feels like he has a lot more time to devote to painting. "My focus for image making is to interpret and communicate more effectively, while my goal is to reveal some truth that initiates interaction and conversations," he said. Posing for photos on Friday afternoon, JheNay Wells smiled timidly as she twirled, her yellow satin prom dress bold and bright. While she was nervous to be in the spotlight, Wells was trying on her dream dress after being named winner of the inaugural Real Queens of Impact: Prom Dream Giveaway, an initiative started by Mrs. Illinois Black United States 2025, Jaleesha Allen. Allen is the founder of Real Queens of Impact, an initiative recognizing young women making a difference in their communities. The giveaway selected one local high school student to receive a free prom dress from Normandys Boutique, based on the student's academic achievements, involvement in the community and overall dedication to success. Mrs. Illinois Black United States 2025 Jaleesha Allen, left, watches as Peoria High senior Jhe'Nay Wells models the prom dress she won in the Real Queens of Impact: Prom Dream Giveaway on Friday, April 4, 2025 at Normandy's Boutique in the Northwoods Mall. 'Warms my heart:' Son continues mother's legacy of baked goods at new Peoria storefront Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wells, who received the news of her win last week, said she was shocked to be chosen. She said it took her a moment to process the news, but cried when it finally hit her. Aw, thank you Mom, you do so much for me, she remembered saying. "I was like, 'Oh my God, me?'" Despite being shy to brag on her accomplishments, Wells has many. She recently received a $1,000 scholarship to Illinois Community College from the African American Hall of Fame and is in the running for another through the Queens Court Outreach Program. She also plays violin, is a member of the National Honor Society and will finish her senior year with a 3.84 grade point average. The competition, which began in March, is entry-based, but Allen said she did not receive as many nominations as she hoped. Allen serves as a mentor for Wells younger sister, and encouraged Wells' mother to nominate her daughter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She stands out, her mother Santia Brock said. Shes buckling down and getting her work done. Shes very determined. She likes to make friends, always helpful. Thats what I love about JheNay, she does everything. Peoria High senior Jhe'Nay Wells' mother Santia Brock admires her daughter as she models the prom dress she won in the Real Queens of Impact: Prom Dream Giveaway on Friday, April 4, 2025 at Normandy's Boutique in the Northwoods Mall. Finding the dress itself was a stroke of luck. A few days before being named winner, Wells and Brock had come to Normandys to try out a few options. Wells fell in love with the yellow dress, but it cost around $500. Being a single mom of three children still in school, Brock did not think she would be able to afford it. All she talked about was that yellow dress, Brock said. Peoria schools: High school gyms are getting a $2.5 million remodel. Here's what to expect Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Normandy Kenney, who owns the boutique, had already recognized how much Wells loved the dress the day she tried it on so she put it away for her in hopes she might come back in to purchase later. Finding out Wells won the dress giveaway, Kenney said, was a happy coincidence. Wells will enjoy her dress at Peoria High School's prom on April 26. After graduation, she plans to attend ICC to become a travel chef, combining her passion for good food and her desire to see the world. Wells said she is naturally driven to be a leader, not a follower. You really want to show people that you can do it by yourself, and then you can show that youre strong and everything, and show that you can do multiple things to help the school, she said. Mrs. Illinois Black United States 2025 Jaleesha Allen, left, Peoria High senior Jhe'Nay Wells, second from right, Normandy's Boutique owner Normandy Kenney, third from right, and boutique manager Maria Hastings pose at the store Friday, April 4, 2025 in the Northwoods Mall. Wells received her dream prom dress in a giveaway sponsored by Real Queens of Impact initiative founded by Allen. This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Peoria high school senior gifted dream prom dress From a suburb's best date-night spots to the impact of rising egg prices on brunch to restaurant openings and renovations, here's the Milwaukee-area restaurant and bar news you may have missed in March 2025: Daniela Varela, owner of Ruby's Bagels, at her first brick-and-mortar bagel shop at 5513 W. North Ave. in Milwaukee on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. The business will open in a few weeks. Before now, she has operated the business out of her food truck. Openings and announcements Flowers and signs of support are posted outside a closed This Is It! on East Wells Street in Milwaukee on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. Wisconsin's oldest continually operating gay bar and a beloved establishment in Milwaukee's LGBTQ+ community, the bar closed on March 9. Closings In March, the ricotta-filled pasta at Birch was accented with fresh mint, pickled jalapenos and roasted parsnip. Rachel Bernhard picks five 'Best Bites' of March 2025 Journal Sentinel dining critic Rachel Bernhard shared the five favorite dishes she tried at Milwaukee-area restaurants throughout the month. These included ricotta-filled pasta, Neapolitan-style pizza, smoked chicken wings, a Korean chicken sandwich and a chili. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more Some of the nigiri that's served at Kin by Rice n Roll in Wauwatosa. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Bernhard also recommends six Wauwatosa date-night spots Rachel also shared a list of six of the best restaurants for date night in Wauwatosa. It included two Italian spots, a French bistro, a sushi and Thai restaurant, a seafood pop-up and a modern American restaurant. Read more Cafe Benelux is renovating its rooftop Cafe Benelux in the Third Ward announced that it's adding retractable glass that will cover part of its rooftop dining area, protecting diners from unpleasant weather. The rooftop renovation is scheduled to be done in May. Read more Wisconsin's Best Burger Contest reveals Elite Eight for 2025 The Wisconsin Beef Council revealed the eight finalists in its Wisconsin's Best Burger Contest. Restaurants in Fond du Lac, West Bend, Baraboo, Cambria, Hurley, Kewaskum, Menasha and Eland are represented. The winner will be revealed May 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more Milwaukee bar featured on 'Bar Rescue' Daq Shack, the New Orleans-themed daiquiri bar at 4191 N. Green Bay Ave., got a makeover on an episode of Paramount's "Bar Rescue," which first aired March 23. Part of the makeover was a new name: Royal Street. Read more Milwaukee Public Market spot named Yelp's best seafood restaurant in Wisconsin St. Paul Fish Company in the Milwaukee Public Market earned the title of online ratings and review platform Yelp's best seafood spot in Wisconsin in its 2025 list of the Best Seafood in Every State. Read more New owner buys Von Trier German bar In May, John Dye who also owns cocktail lounges At Random, Bryant's and The Estate will take over as the new owner of Von Trier German bar and restaurant at 2235 N. Farwell Ave. Dye plans to make some tweaks to Von Trier's menu and hours, as well as renovations to the space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more Avocado toast topped with an egg from Yammas at 890 Elm Grove Road, Elm Grove, is pictured on March 6, 2025. Yammas, like many area restaurants, has had to increase the price of dishes made with eggs due to rising egg costs. Breakfast restaurants discuss impact of rising egg prices Reporters spoke with Milwaukee-area breakfast and brunch restaurants about how climbing egg prices amid the avian flu outbreak have affected menu prices and their ability to offer certain dishes. Some restaurants have been forced to raise their prices, while others are changing their menus. Read more Milwaukee voted one of USA TODAY's best beer cities USA TODAY readers named Milwaukee one of the nation's top 10 cities for beer in the publication's 10Best Reader's Choice Awards. However, the city dropped down a few spots on the list since last year. Read more This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee restaurant news in March: date-night spots, new openings BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has funded renewable energy projects totaling 1.2 gigawatts in Azerbaijan, said Harry Boyd-Carpenter, the bank's Managing Director for Climate Strategy and Implementation, during the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council in Baku, Trend reports. Were proud to have financed 1.2 gigawatts of renewable energy projects in Azerbaijan, partnering with three outstanding companies: SOCAR Green, ACWA Power, and Masdar, he said. Its important to note that today Baku is hosting both the 11th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. The event brings together 24 countries, 7 international financial institutions, 42 energy companies, as well as ministers, deputy ministers, and other high-ranking officials. FASHION MAIL: Fendi is marking its 100-year milestone with its own stamp. The Italian Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy is releasing a stamp to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Italian luxury house. More from WWD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The stamp belongs to the thematic series Excellence of the production and economic system, dedicated to Italian brands on their centenary. Similarly, one was made for Gucci in 2021. The stamp features a reinterpretation of the Fendi Roma logo crafted for this special occasion. The number one and the infinity symbol in the brands signature yellow color are placed on a backdrop with an FF logo created by Karl Lagerfeld. The story of this logo, which stands for Fun Furs, traces back to 1965 when the designer was appointed as creative director of the brand by the five Fendi sisters: Paola, Anna, Franca, Carla and Alda, daughters of the maisons founders, Adele and Edoardo Fendi. The stamp is included inside a collectible four-flap and a philatelic A4 folder. It also comes with a text about the brands history signed by Silvia Venturini Fendi, artistic director of accessories and menswear, and created ad hoc in the signature yellow color. Stepping through the doors of Fendi feels like entering a vortex of tradition and modernity that continues to resonate, especially today, as the brand celebrates its 100th anniversary. For a century, the house has amazed with its duality, combining the beauty of Rome with a forward-looking vision, said the letter penned by Venturini Fendi included with the stamp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Founded in Rome in 1925 by Adele and Edoardo Fendi, Fendi blossomed from a small, artisanal fur and leather workshop into a global luxury house. From the matriarch founder to the five legendary Fendi sisters Paola, Anna, Franca, Carla and Alda who conquered the world from the 1940s, starting from Rome, to the arrival of Karl Lagerfeld in 1965, the German fashion emperor with a boundless vision, Fendis journey is a tale of a chosen family, built on deep connections and values passed down through generations, the designer continued. The original signature with the FF logo, standing for Fun Furs. The first fashion shows, the love affair with the cinema, Silvia Venturini Fendis creation of the Baguette and Peekaboo bags. The beginning of a new era with the arrival of LVMH in 2000, the spectacular shows on the Great Wall of China and the Trevi Fountain, and the monumental headquarters at Palazzo della Civilta Italiana in Rome. Fendis story is one of daring creativity, looking to the future while honoring the past. Inside the folder there is a block of four stamps, a stamped and cancelled philatelic postcard, a first-day envelope, and a philatelic card. All the products will be available at Italys postal service provider Poste Italiane offices, on the providers website and at 10 selected philatelic spaces located in the center of the main Italian cities, online at filatelia.poste.it and for subscribers. Best of WWD Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Glamping company Under Canvas launched a new brand, The Outdoor Collection. Guests can experience all the luxury that Under Canvas is known for, but in new locations and with different accommodation types, like cabins and cottages. There are currently two properties in the portfolio: The Fields of Michigan in South Haven, Michigan, and Bar N Ranch in West Yellowstone, Montana. Ever since it opened its first location near Yellowstone National Park in 2012, Under Canvas has set the barhighfor glamping. Now, the hospitality company is launching a new brand: The Outdoor Collection by Under Canvas, with resorts that have cottages and cabins in addition to the classic Under Canvas glamping tents. There are two properties in the Outdoor Collection: The Fields of Michigan, located in South Haven, Michigan, and Bar N Ranch, in West Yellowstone, Montana. Both were recently acquired by Under Canvas and operate seasonally. This year, The Fields of Michigan will be open from May 1 through Nov. 2, while Bar N Ranch will be open from May through Oct. 6. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much like the original Under Canvas brand, The Outdoor Collection is focused on nature-based stays, though they may not necessarily be near a national park. However, guests can still expect the upscale amenities (plush bedding, great food) that Under Canvas is known for, including its iconic safari-style tents, but with the addition of new unit types, such as cozy cabins and contemporary cottages. Courtesy of The Fields of Michigan Blueberry bushes can be found all over The Fields of Michigan property. Blueberry bushes can be found all over The Fields of Michigan property. We are excited to continue connecting people to each other, to extraordinary places, and to the planet, Matt Gaghen, CEO of Under Canvas, told Travel + Leisure. Whether visiting the western lodge that is Bar N Ranch in Montana or the blueberry farm of The Fields of Michigan, we know our guests will love these inspiring destinations, and we look forward to offering travelers more experiences as we continue to grow the Outdoor Collection portfolio." The Fields of Michigan is a dreamy 30-acre working blueberry farm with 23 units, ranging from a Simple Tent big enough for two to the Fields Cottage, with enough space for four guests. The safari-style field tents and cottages have ensuite bathrooms, electricity, and firepits. Under Canvas is, of course, known for its tasty on-site restaurants, and The Fields is no exception. Here, guests can eat to their hearts content at The Willow, which specializes in meals made with local produce. And though The Fields isnt located near a national park, theres still plenty to do in the area, with easy access to Lake Michigan beaches and watersports as well as hiking and biking trails. Bar N Ranch, on the other hand, is located in West Yellowstone, Montana, and sprawls out over 200 acres of land. Its located just six miles from the entrance of Yellowstone National Park, giving guests easy access to one of the most popular national parks in the country. But theres plenty to do on-property as well, with opportunities to ride horses, white water raft, and fly fish in the South Fork of the Madison River. Plus, you may see rescue horses, antelope, and foxes just walking around the resort. As for accommodations, you can select either a cowboy-chic room at the lodge or one of the private cabins, which have between one and four bedrooms. Theres on-site dining here as well, from breakfast to dinner (and craft cocktails for in-between). Much like Under Canvas, complimentary smores are available. Nightly rates at The Fields of Michigan start at $138, and at $296 at Bar N Ranch. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure An abandoned chihuahua has found his forever home with one of the police officers who helped save him. "He has a lot of love to give, and we are prepared to give him just as much love back," said Sgt. Rick Hernandez, a Surprise Police Department spokesperson, in a video produced by the Arizona Humane Society. On March 8, security camera footage captured a vehicle pulling over, pushing a dog out and driving away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Someone found the dog and took it to Surprise police before taking it to the Arizona Humane Society, according to the society. The dog was named Benji, and while he was in the Arizona Humane Society's care, he received a microchip, vaccinations and was neutered, according to the group. Surprise police have since decided to make him a department mascot. "This is what we all get into law enforcement for, is to help those who can't help themselves," Hernandez said. "Our community and our officers' hearts broke when we saw that video of him getting dropped off on a back street all by himself, running and chasing after a car." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When Benji came in, it was immediately apparent that he had a lot of energy," Hernandez said. "Lots of tail wags, lots of belly rubs, and lots of smiles from our staff. Our employees were super happy to have him in the office." The Arizona Humane Society is still looking for forever homes for almost 200 animals. The society said in a news release that Benji's experience should serve as a reminder that people should never abandon a pet and that resources were available for pets in need. The society cared for more than 22,000 sick, injured and abused pets in 2024, the release said. Population growth and a shortage of affordable pet care have led to an increase in pet abandonments in central Arizona, according to the group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Arizona Humane Society encouraged pet owners who need help to keep their animals to visit its website, azhumane.org, for more information about available resources. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona police officer adopts chihuahua, Benji, tossed from car Shoppers scrambling to make any last minute purchases on Easter this year will have several options across Milwaukee and Wisconsin. Most grocery stores and fast food chains will remain open on the holiday, but that's not the case for several banks and post offices. If you're looking to make any last minute errands on Easter Sunday, here's a look at what is open and closed in Wisconsin on the holiday. When is Easter 2025? The holiday, which falls on Sunday, April 20 this year, is an important one for the millions of people around the world who follow the Christian faith. Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and follows a 40-day period known as Lent. Is Walmart open on Easter? Walmart stores will be open regular hours on Easter, the company told USA TODAY. For a list of Walmart locations in Wisconsin, visit the company's website. Is Target open on Easter? Target will not be open on Easter Sunday, a spokesperson told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Are Costco or Sam's Club open on Easter? No, both Costco and Sam's Club warehouses will be closed on Easter. Are Kroger stores open on Easter? Glendale Metro Market (signage has changed since this was taken) Most Kroger stores, including including Metro Market and Pick' n Save, will remain open on Easter weekend. For a list of Kroger stores in Wisconsin, you can visit the company's website. Are CVS and Walgreens open on Easter? Many CVS stores will be open regular hours on Easter, however some stores may be closed or have reduced hours. Check with your local pharmacy for their specific holiday hours. You can find your local CVS pharmacy using the company's store locator. Walgreens will be open regular hours. Are banks, post offices, UPS and FedEx open on Easter? United States Postal Service operations will proceed as normal on Good Friday, April 18, and Easter Sunday, April 20, the USPS confirmed in an emailed statement to USA TODAY. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since USPS facilities are closed for retail transactions and residential and business mail deliveries do not occur on Sunday, mail will not be delivered. However, Priority Mail Express is delivered 365 days a year, including on Sunday. UPS pickup and delivery services will not be available on Easter. UPS Store locations may be closed, according the company's website. Since Easter falls on a Sunday, banks that typically close on Sunday will also be closed on Easter Sunday. Most branches of Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, JPMorgan Chase, and CitiBank will be closed on April 20. Customers are encouraged to contact their local branch to confirm specific hours. Capital One told USA TODAY its branches and cafes will be operating at the normal scheduled hours on Good Friday and Easter. Customers can use the Capital One locator finder to find specific information for operating hours near them. Will the city of Milwaukee garbage pickup schedule change on Easter? In the city of Milwaukee, garbage collection will be paused on Good Friday, the Friday before Easter Sunday. Make sure to check your schedule to see when garbage pickup is scheduled for your area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: What restaurants are open Easter 2025? Details on Chipotle, Starbucks, Cracker Barrel, more This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin stores open on Easter 2025: Walmart, USPS, Kroger, Walgreens A person is in critical condition after a house fire this afternoon in Dayton, according to Seth Dodds with the Harrison Township Fire Department [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Firefighters were dispatched to the home on Philadelphia Drive around 5:30 p.m., Dodds says. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dodds told News Center 7 that the person who reported the house fire made sure the resident of the home made it out. The resident is in critical condition, Dodds says. The fire caused moderate damage on the first floor of the home, according to Dodds. The cause of the fire is under investigation. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A Dayton Public Schools student waiting to catch a bus was shot and killed Friday morning near a busy transit hub in downtown Dayton. Alfred Hale, 18, a senior at Dunbar High School, stumbled into stumbled into the In and Out Restaurant, 27 S. Jefferson St., around 7:30 a.m. The restaurant is located near the intersection with Fourth Street, just south of the Greater RTAs Wright Stop Plaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Dayton Police Department, no one has yet been arrested though police now believe they have identified a suspect through secuity camera images and a gun recovered in the area that may have been used. Police said there is no reason to believe that the public is in danger. Dayton Mayor Jeffrey Mims issued a statement early Friday evening. This senseless event is hard for us all to comprehend. Incidents like this are exactly why we are involving the community in reducing violence and building a peaceful city. We have zero tolerance for violence in our neighborhoods, downtown and across the city. Mayor Jeffrey Mims Later Friday evening, Dayton Public Schools Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence issued a statement that read in part: The Dayton Public School District is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a 12th-grade student at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School. Alfred Hale was a valued member of both the Dunbar family and the broader Dayton Public Schools community. He will be greatly missed by students, staff, and all who knew him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the students family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. A crisis support team was on-site at the school on Friday and will remain available to support any students who need assistance in the days and weeks ahead. DPS Supt. Dr. David Lawrence Residents who live in the area said they are worried. We really cant really prevent all this stuff going on, but it just with the young people, said Marcus, an area resident. They are out of hand, wild. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marcus said he hopes that the violence stops, but wants people to be careful. You just got to be careful what you run into, he said. Just try to keep your cool. Some people just go off energy around here sometimes. Caller: We have a guy it looks like he is just shot in the front of the building he just came inside. 911 Operator: OK, he is outside right now? Caller: No, he came inside and fell on the floor. 911 call Kyree Preston, another resident, shared the same concerns. We dont know what people are going through, said Preson. I dont know what happened exactly. Im just saying like, watch the way you act and watch things you do and watch the people that surround you because its not safe out here. According to Dayton Public Schools, several Ponitz CTC students were waiting at Wright Stop Plaza but werent harmed during the incident. Crisis support was provided to the students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shooting is still under investigation, with Dayton Police saying more details will be revealed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) One person is in the hospital after Greensboro police responded to an aggravated assault report on Thursday night. Officers responded to the 1800 block of Meadowview Road, according to a Greensboro Police Department news release. A victim was taken to the hospital. The victims condition is unknown at this time. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Greensboro/Guilford Crime Stoppers at (336) 373-1000. Citizens can also download the mobile P3tips app for Apple or Android phones to submit a mobile tip, or go to P3tips.com to submit a web tip. All tips to Crime Stoppers are completely anonymous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP. SURABAYA, Indonesia (AP) Indonesian rescuers recovered 10 bodies after a landslide struck vehicles on a hilly road on the countrys main island of Java, police said Friday. Torrential rains pushed mud, rocks and trees down the mountainside road on Thursday, burying a van with seven people aboard and a pickup truck with three traders and full of vegetables near Watu Lumpang, a resort area in East Javas Mojokerto district, said local police chief Andi Yudha Pranata. Pranata said rescuers pulled out the body of the vans driver late Thursday and his six family members, including three children, wife and parents, were retrieved on Friday, together with the bodies of the three traders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Footage released by East Javas Search and Rescue Agency showed the road covered by thick mud, rocks and uprooted trees. Seasonal rains from about October to April frequently cause flooding and landslides in Indonesia, a vast archipelago of 17,000 islands where millions of people live in mountainous areas or near fertile flood plains. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) An Amite man was killed in a head-on crash on the interstate in Ascension Parish early Friday morning. Multiple agencies responded to the crash on I-10 East between the Prairieville exit and the parish line around 1:30 a.m. Friday. The St. George Fire Department confirmed that both cars involved were on fire. The crash forced part of the interstate to close for hours. Louisiana State Police said a preliminary investigation shows that the interstate crash happened after a car driven by James Burns, 39, going westbound in the eastbound lanes hit an 18-wheeler traveling eastbound head-on. Burns was pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers noted he was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver of the 18-wheeler was taken to a local hospital with moderate injuries. An investigation is ongoing. Livingston Parish deputies investigate after body found in Denham Springs Latest News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. Video above: This Nexstar Media video explains whats more likely to happen to you than winning the lottery. EL CAJON, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) A man who recently stopped at a market and liquor store in East County didnt realize at that time that walking through those doors would change his life at least financially. Officials with the California Lottery announced on Friday that an individual named Ohanees Kandelyan went into Leos Market & Liquor, located at 635 El Cajon Blvd. in El Cajon, and purchased a Royal Riches Scratchers ticket. These tickets cost $30 each, with one in 2.71 overall odds and one in 2.71 cash odds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement $1M Scratchers ticket sold at Vons in East County To win, players need to match their given numbers to any of the 10 winning numbers to win the prize shown on the ticket. If a player scratches off one the 2X, 5X, 10X, 20X or 50X symbols, they would automatically multiply and win that corresponding prize. Those who uncover a CROWN symbol automatically win all 35 prizes, while those who scratch off a BILL symbol in any FAST SPOT instantly win the prize shown. As for Kandelyan, he scratched his way to $10 million winnings. The odds of winning this amount on Royal Riches Scratchers is one in 3,040,330, according to the California Lottery. Its the top prize for this type of ticket. And just like that, someone in East County has reached millionaire status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This marks the second time a winning Scratchers ticket has been purchased in East County. Earlier this week, the California Lottery announced a lucky ticket purchased at a grocery store in La Mesa that resulted in $1 million in winnings. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Signing ceremony of Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Energy of Uzbekistan and the Asian Development Bank, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank was held within Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council 11th Ministerial Meeting and Green Energy Advisory Council 3rd Ministerial Meeting in Baku, Trend reports via Azerbaijan's Energy Ministry. The representatives of ADB and AIIB joined the document signed by the Energy Ministers of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. This memorandum envisages the cooperation between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan in order to support the first stage of the feasibility study of the Caspian Green Energy Corridor project. "The unification of the energy systems of Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan is a strategic and historically important project. Joining ADB and AIIB to our Caspian Green Energy Corridor initiative is one of the important advances in the implementation of the project. Our cooperation will enable us to start feasibility studies of the project soon. Thanks to this regional green energy initiative, Azerbaijan and Central Asia will realize the first trans-Caspian Energy Corridor, Energy Minister of Azerbaijan Parviz Shahbazov said. Joint initiatives such as the Green Corridor project demonstrate our determination to strengthen the region's energy systems, promote green technologies, and ensure sustainable export of green electricity. Together we create a future where energy is not only a resource, but also the foundation of sustainable development and stability," Erlan Akkenzhenov, Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan, stated. "The Green Energy Corridor to be established between Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan is an important example of cooperation that turns the renewable energy potential of Central Asia into a reliable and sustainable bridge connecting Europe. This project reflects our commitment to building a green future, promoting economic growth and ensuring long-term energy security, Deputy Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan Umid Mamadaminov said. "Caspian Green Energy Corridor initiative is a strategic priority for three countries, as well as ADB, as it directly advances our core mission of fostering cross-border cooperation on clean energy infrastructure while simultaneously addressing multiple regional challenges. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is a defining moment in our collaboration and sets the foundation for deeper cooperation between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. It reflects our collective commitment to turning this vision into a transformative regional initiative," ADB`s Director General of Central and West Asia Department Eugene Zhukov noted. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is delighted to partner with the governments of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and the Asian Development Bank in supporting the Feasibility Study of the Caspian Green Energy Corridor project. This project will unlock Central Asias vast clean energy potential, with Azerbaijan playing a critical role as the gateway for green energy flows from Central Asia to Europe, Head of Client Relations, Public Sector Client Department Region II, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Hong Wei added. Meanwhile, an agreement between the governments of Azerbaijan, the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan on Strategic Partnership in the Development and Transmission of Green Energy was signed by the leaders of the three countries on November 13, 2024 at the COP29 climate conference. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Stern reaction after an 11 Investigates exclusive on downtown crime stats. Chief Investigator Rick Earle broke the story earlier this week that data from last year reveals that downtown Pittsburgh is still a top spot for police calls and arrests. Mayoral challenger Corey OConnor and District Attorney Stephen Zappala weighed in on our report. Both of them had strong words for Mayor Ed Gaineys administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zappala accused the city of under reporting crime. And OConnor claimed the Mayor is manipulating data to deceive the public. We are understaffed, underfunded and overworked. Firefighters, EMS and police officers are being pushed to the limit while this administration wasted critical funding from COVID relief money on hiring political allies instead of investing in our safety, said OConnor during a news conference where he outlined his plan for improving public safety. OConnor was joined by the president of the Pittsburgh Paramedics Union, Jon Atkinson, and retired Pittsburgh Police officer Sheldon Williams. Both men have endorsed OConnor. Williams had supported Gainey in his first run, but said Gainey has failed when it comes to public safety. He said Gainey has essentially defunded police without saying hes defunded them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Gainey took office there were approximately 900 police officers. Today, because of resignations and retirements, there are approximately 750. While the COVID pandemic and the death of George Floyd led to a delay in academy classes, Gainey did not start a police academy class until his second year in office, even though there was money in the budget from his predecessor for two classes in his first year. Williams said he believes OConnor is the right man for the job. OConnor said he suspects the mayors office is manipulating crime data to their advantage. The mayors office cherry picks crime stats to paint a false picture of safety, but Pittsburghers know the reality, said OConnor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OConnors comments come just days after 11 Investigates obtained new crime stats revealing that Zone 2, which covers downtown had the most calls for police service, 31,000, and half of those calls came from the downtown district. Zone 2 also had the most arrest, 1900, in the city. More than half of them were made in the downtown district Most of those arrest were for drugs and disorderly conduct. Earle questioned the mayor about these newly obtained stats. Earle: Does it indicate its a hotbed for crime? Mayor Gainey: No, no, it doesnt mean its a hotbed for crime. Downtown is safe. Gainey said people have returned to restaurants and shows and that proves downtown is safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the DA said hes not convinced. I do, I see a lot of problems with downtown, said Zappala, after a news conference on an unrelated subject. Zappala said hes so concerned that hes now assigned detectives from his office to monitor Market Square for illegal drugs, fights and other criminal activity. He said he suspects the city is underreporting crime because they dont have enough officers on the streets. If you dont have the guys on the street and youre not taking the reports, youre not going to have the numbers, said Zappala. While the mayor has touted a drop in the murder rate and non-fatal shootings, OConnor said that doesnt tell the whole story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He claimed that in one year, burglaries in Lawrenceville doubled, car thefts tripled, and vandalism jumped by 50%. OConnor said his top priority, if elected, will be to hire a police chief. He also said he would expand the co-response program that relies on social workers to assist police, increase staffing and funding for emergency response, and promote transparency in public safety reporting. He also said he would scale back the telephone reporting unit because residents want to see a police officer. He took a shot at the mayor who has gone through five chiefs in three years, including one who left 17 months into the job to return to officiating college basketball. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our city needs stabile dedicated leadership, not revolving door appointments or part-time commitments, said OConnor, referring to Chief Larry Scirotto, who attempted to orchestrate a deal with the mayor where he would officiate college basketball for nearly four months. That deal fell through and Scirotto decided to retire after 11 Investigates broke that story last fall. In a statement to 11 Investigates, Mayor Gainey denied OConnors allegations. Below is the mayors full statement. This is a desperate attempt to distract from the real progress weve made on public safety during my first term. Every day, Im in communities across the city hearing from people how their family is safer, gun violence and homicides are down, and that they now know and trust the officers in their neighborhoods. Im proud that my administration has reduced homicides by 33% and non-fatal gun violence incidents by 44% by addressing the root causes of crime and building back trust between police and communities. In my next term, were going to continue to invest in police to focus on violent crime and issues that only uniformed officers can handle, while allowing social workers and unarmed personnel to handle the rest; recruit more Black residents into the citys Public Safety department, so our public agencies look like the people they represent; and put community responders in place to assist frequent users of emergency services and prevent tragedy before it happens, said Gainey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaineys campaign also said mayor reopened the police academy and is running multiple classes per year to hire more police officers after the academy was shut down prior to Gaineys election. The campaign also said the mayors office is working the fleet back to full strength after it went through years of underfunding, something Corey should know full well over the years he was on Council. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW DENVER (KDVR) A traffic stop led law enforcement to the discovery of 111 lbs. of cocaine hidden in a car driving on Interstate 70 on Tuesday. The Eagle County Sheriffs Office said it started just before 10 a.m. when a detective with the Gore Range All Narcotics Interdiction Task Force pulled over a vehicle for not staying in its lane on eastbound Interstate 70 near mile marker 140. Multiple agencies work to capture eluding, armed suspects in stolen vehicle Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver was given a warning, but the sheriffs office said he made statements that raised suspicions fo further criminal activity, so a trained narcotics detection dog was brought in to inspect the vehicle. The K-9 signaled that drugs might be present, leading to a search in which 44 individually wrapped packages were found hidden in the vehicle. The substance in the packages tested presumptively positive for cocaine. The Gore Range All Narcotics Interdiction Task Force discovered 111 lbs of cocaine hidden in a vehicle during a traffic stop on Interstate 70 on April 1, 2025. The Gore Range All Narcotics Interdiction Task Force discovered 111 lbs of cocaine hidden in a vehicle during a traffic stop on Interstate 70 on April 1, 2025. The driver was identified by the sheriffs office as Scott Douglas Robinson, 34, of Ontario, Canada. He was taken to the Eagle County Detention Facility, where he is being held on a $1,000,000 bond and is facing charges of: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlawful distribution of a controlled substance (cocaine) Class 1 drug felony Unlawful possession of a controlled substance (cocaine) Class 1 drug felony Special offender (cocaine) Class 1 drug felony Conspiracy Class 1 drug felony Anyone with information about the suspect or the crime is asked to call the Eagle County Sheriffs Office at 970-328-8500. Tipsters can also remain anonymous and submit a tip online to the Eagle County Crime Stoppers or by sending a mobile tip using the free P3 Tips app. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated. Russia launched an Iskander-M ballistic missile at Kryvyi Rih in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on April 4, killing at least 18 people and injuring 61, according to Governor Serhii Lysak. The strike hit a residential neighborhood, setting buildings on fire and causing severe damage, according to Oleksandr Vilkul, head of the city's military administration. Nine children were among the dead, Lysak said. A playground was located near the site of the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 40 people remain hospitalized, including a three-month-old boy with cut wounds. Ukraine's General Staff said in the early hours of April 5 that Russia was "trying to cover up its cynical crime with a 'high-precision' lie about hitting 'the place where the commanders of the Ukrainian Armed Forces were meeting with Western instructors.'" Russia's Defense Ministry reported shortly after the attack that up to 85 military and foreign officers were killed in the strike on Kryvyi Rih, and 20 vehicles destroyed. "We declare that Russia is again spreading false information," Ukraine's General Staff said. "The missile hit a residential area and a playground." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on the attack, adding that Ukraine experiences "Russian strikes every day. Every day, people are killed. There is only one reason this continues: Russia does not want a ceasefire, and we see it. The whole world sees it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kryvyi Rih, Zelensky's hometown, remains a frequent target of Russian missile strikes. The city, with a population of about 660,000, is the second-largest in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and lies roughly 70 kilometers (40 miles) from the front line. Russia has continued missile and drone attacks across Ukraine despite U.S. efforts to negotiate a ceasefire. Kyiv argues that Moscow's strikes on civilian areas show it is not serious about peace. The Kremlin rejected a 30-day ceasefire agreement reached by the U.S. and Ukraine in Jeddah on March 11, agreeing only to a limited truce on attacks against energy infrastructure and in the Black Sea. Ukraine has already accused Russia of violating the energy ceasefire, while the future of the Black Sea truce remains uncertain as Moscow ties its implementation to the lifting of Western sanctions. Read also: Russian attacks across Ukraine kill 6, injure 46 over past day Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A 14-year-old accused of gunning down a pair of New Jersey police officers, killing one of them, will be tried as an adult in the shooting. The unidentified teen is facing counts including murder, attempted murder and possession of illegal weapons in connection with the gun battle in Newark last month, culminating in the shooting death of 26-year-old Det. Joseph Azcona. Under state law, juveniles below the age of 15 cant be tried as adults so New Jerseys interim U.S. Attorney Alina Habba is working to have the charges transferred to federal court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is really the way it should be, she said during an appearance on Fox and Friends Thursday. If you shoot a police officer, if you shoot anyone, I dont care what your age is. If youre part of a gang and you have a repeated history of crime, you will be tried as an adult. The shooting unfolded the night of March 7 at Carteret St. and Broadway, near a McDonalds and a White Castle not far from the Passaic River. Police said the gunman fired off more than two dozen shots as officers closed in, fatally striking Azcona, a five-year-veteran of the Newark Police Department. Hed been responding to the area as part of an intelligence team seeking suspects in an illegal weapons investigation, police said, adding that he didnt even have a chance to step out of his vehicle before he was fatally struck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Azconas partner was also wounded in the shooting, as was the teen, whose name has not been released due to his age. He remains in the hospital, according to Habba. He was going to go under the state which meant that he would have had a very low sentence if he was found guilty, which Im sure he would be, Habba said. 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: Johnny Allen Wade. Image courtesy Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum. We want to remember Johnny Allen Wade, while honoring those who survived and thanking those changed forever. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WOODRUFF, Utah (ABC4) Two men accused of dumping wastewater into a small Rich County pond have been charged with third-degree felonies. Jeremy Oliver, 47, and Braden Lance, 37, each face four felony charges of unlawful discharge of pollutants, according to court records. The Utah Trust Lands Administration said they first received tips about semi-trucks dumping wastewater into a pond near Woodruff in February 2024. Riche County Sheriff Dale Stacey and Trust Lands Administration Special Agent Brent Kasza reportedly went to the pond and reported a strong chemical order and nearby vegetation had turned black and died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After further investigation, officials found that wastewater from an oilfield in Bear River, Wyoming, which was intended to be disposed of at a facility in LaBarge, Wyoming, was being illegally dumped into the pond. Oliver and Lance, two individual contractors tasked with disposing of the wastewater, were allegedly cutting corners when dumping the waste. Woman in critical condition after being stuck on I-15 in Cedar City The sheer quantity of the pollution was beyond anything Ive ever seen as an investigator, said Kasza. I was able to uncover that the suspects were dumping the toxic water in Utah, a much shorter distance than what they had been hired to do, and were pocketing the money provided for their expenses that didnt incur. Trust Lands Administration Director Michelle E. McConkie said that the dumping of pollutants near a small Utah town is unconscionable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This illegal activity appears to have caused damage to the immediate environment and also has the potential to cause harm to the local community, McConkie continued. Court records show both Oliver and Lance are scheduled to make their first appearance before Judge Angela Fonnesbeck in Utahs First District Court on Tuesday, April 22. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JANE LEW, W.Va. (WBOY) A man and a woman have been charged with arson after allegedly setting a stolen vehicle on fire in March. According to a press release from the West Virginia State Fire Marshals Office, 38-year-old Dylan McCracken and 45-year-old Dawn Pietripaoli, both of Lewis County, were arrested and charged with third degree arson. A warrant for their arrest was served by the West Virginia State Police and the Lewis County Sheriffs Office. Dylan McCracken Dawn Pietripaoli City of Elkins terminates officer accused of domestic battery Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Departments responded to a vehicle fire near Doss Enterprises in Jane Lew on March 16. An investigation determined that the vehicle had been stolen and the fire was incendiary in nature according to the State Fire Marshal. McCracken was also charged with one count of receiving or transferring stolen vehicle. Both suspects are being held in the Central Regional Jail. McCracken is being held on a $120,000 bond and Pietripaoli on a $100,000 bond. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) A husband and wife have died following a high-speed crash that occurred early Friday morning in The Gulch neighborhood of Nashville. The crash happened at the intersection of 12th Avenue South and Demonbreun Street around 2:45 a.m. It blows my mind, I cant believe what I am seeing, Phyllis Stockton, who works in the area, expressed. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) According to Metro police, a taxi was traveling west on Demonbreun Street and, according to witnesses, had the green light at the 12th Avenue intersection when it was struck by a speeding Jeep Grand Cherokee. The vehicles then crashed into the storefront of Del Friscos Grille. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A woman sitting in the backseat of the taxiidentified as 68-year-old Kathy Granfors died at the scene. Meanwhile, her husbandidentified as 64-year-old Kirk Granforswho was also sitting in the backseat, was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he later died from his injuries. Police said the couple were from Jacksonville, Florida. The 37-year-old taxi driver was also taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The brother of the taxi driver told News 2 his brother is expected to survive. He said his brother was on Demonbreun and about to turn left on 12th Avenue South to drop off passengers at the W Hotel when they were hit by the Jeep. WATCH: Street racing, burnouts reported in the Gulch Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators at the scene told News 2 at least four men in the stolen Jeep were street racing with another vehicle prior to the crash. Three men from the stolen vehicle then got out of the crashed vehicle and into the other car involved in the race, according to Metro police. That vehicle then drove away. The fact that we lost lives because of just sheer irresponsibility is beyond maddening, District 14 Councilmember Jordan Huffman said. Not only that but now we have a local business that who knows how long that will be down. We have a community that is scared that dont know if the next time they go out and drive at night that this going to happen. One of the individualsidentified as 37-year-old George Chaney of Nashvillewas still at the scene when officers arrived. Police added he is suspected to be the Jeep driver and attempted to run away when officers arrived, but was unable to do so due to his injuries. Chaney remains at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and will be arrested upon his release on a state parole violation warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee was stolen in February from an 8th Avenue South apartment garage. It was allegedly red when it was taken, but had been spray-painted black. People need to slow down that is for sure, Stockton said. They dont need to be coming to Nashville acting stupid, stealing, robbing, running into buildings that is just crazy. Street racing and stolen vehicles, they seem to be synonymous with each other, Huffman said. Chaney reportedly has a criminal history dating back 19 years. He was sentenced in April 2019 to serve two concurrent 12-year sentences for heroin convictions. Authorities added he was arrested on March 2 on charges of felony reckless endangerment with a vehicle, evading arrest, auto theft, reckless driving, altering a license tag, and driving on a suspended license. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com In fact, police said that case involved a Dodge Charger stolen out of Kentucky that fled from officers at speeds in excess of 100 mph. The car reportedly had a fake temp tag. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Metro police, a judicial commissioner set Chaneys bond at $49,000 for the incident and he was released from jail. The state then issued a parole violation warrant due to those charges on March 20. Charges against Chaney in relation to Fridays deadly crash are pending amid a continuing investigation and consultation with the District Attorneys Office. Downtown Councilmember Jacob Kupin told News 2 Nashville is already seeing positive results from MNPDs renewed effort on road enforcement but more needs to be done. It highlights the importance of making sure our roads are safe for vehicles, pedestrians, bikers, and we see that street racing and its so important because it is not just someone going too fast it could end somebodys life, Kupin concluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In February, at least 20 vehicles were seen doing donuts and burnouts at 8th Avenue South and Division Street. This is a public safety matter and public safety is and should always be nonpartisan, Huffman said. No additional information was immediately released. 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 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The Southern Gas Corridor plays a key role in ensuring Europes energy security, said Azerbaijan's Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov at the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku, Trend reports. "The 11th meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) Advisory Council at the ministerial level and the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council represent a major milestone in advancing our coordinated actions and strategies for energy supply. The participation of 23 countries, the European Union, 45 energy companies, and seven international financial institutions highlights the expanding influence of the Advisory Council, which is increasingly addressing issues beyond the scope of the SGC, as emphasized throughout todays discussions," he said. The inaugural meeting of the SGC Council, held 11 years ago, brought together just seven countries. Today, that number has grown to 23, laying the foundation for enhanced energy cooperation through new projects and international partnerships. "We reaffirmed the essential role of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) in securing Europe's energy stability. Azerbaijani gas will be vital in maintaining stability during this crucial transition period, complementing renewable energy sources and mitigating their volatility. Achieving meaningful outcomes will also rely on consistent support from the European Union, alongside the active participation of relevant financial institutions and energy companies," the minister said. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel (FOX40.COM) Two dogs died and one adult was displaced after a house fire in Turlock on Thursday, according to the Modesto Fire Department. Video Above: Workplace fire safety tips Officials said crews responded to the 1300 block of Estrella Way around 7:25 p.m. to find Smoke and flames coming from inside the residence. With quick action from firefighters, neighboring homes were saved and the fire was kept to the house of origin. The resident managed to get out alive, the two dogs did not. The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced resident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fire erupts inside Disneyland parking garage Fire investigators determined the fire to be accidental. It is unknown at this time what type of accident actually caused the fire. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. CHICAGO A federal grand jury has indicted two men who allegedly assaulted and robbed a United States Postal Service mail carrier in Chicago. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Illinois said Kyler Reese and Chaun Allen robbed a mail carrier on Nov. 16, 2022. According to the indictment, Reese and Allen arrived at the scene of the crime in a stolen vehicle they obtained the day before. Reese then got out of the vehicle, pointed a gun at the mail carrier and demanded the carriers USPS keys and mailbag. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Human remains found on Carol Stream trail identified The gun Reese had was also equipped with a switch device, making it able to fire multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger, according to investigators. Reese and Allen then drove off in the stolen vehicle. Both Reese and Allen have been charged with conspiracy, robbery of a mail carrier and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. The charges are punishable by a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison. Reese was arrested during the first week of April 2025 and a detention hearing is set for Monday, April 7 in U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona. Allen was arrested in March 2025 and has been denied pre-trial release, according to authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines U.S. Postal Service employees delivering mail to the American people must be allowed to do so safely and securely, said Acting U.S. Attorney Pasqual. Individuals who use violence against postal carriers to gain access to the publics mail must be held accountable. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DES MOINES, Iowa (KCAU) Two northwest Iowa communities received grants to increase economic growth. Sibley Housing and Development Corporation received a $10,000 grant to help pay for a site plan proposal and public awareness campaign. The development corporation is seeking a new residential development to address a big housing shortage, which is affecting the City of Sibleys economic growth. The Calhoun County Economic Development also obtained a $10,000 grant to help pay for a marketing strategy to attract businesses, service providers, or manufacturers to locate in the Calhoun County Business Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials with the economic development said theyre particularly looking at a 13.2-acre shovel-ready site located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 20 and Iowa Highway 4. Gehlen Catholic School raises $338K+ in annual fundraiser For struggling rural areas, this support can be transformative helping local leaders to bring their vision to life, create and fill jobs and fuel economic progress where its needed most. These grants encourage innovative ideas that enable small Iowa towns to stay vibrant and competitive, said Debi Durham, director of the IEDA and Iowa Finance Authority. The Iowa Economic Development Authority announced on Thursday that a total of $40,000 in grants is being split between two rural towns and 2 counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The money comes from the Governors Empower Rural Iowa Initiatives Building Ownership & Organization by Strengthening Teams (BOOST) program. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. VANCOUVER, Wash. (KOIN) Where the train tracks dart high above I-5 just over the Columbia River is a busy area of downtown Vancouver. Its not the type of place a body would typically go unnoticed, perhaps for weeks, and yet police say thats exactly what happened 20 years ago. It was a very personal attack, which caused her death, said Det. Dustin Goudschaal. Brutal. The longtime investigator is talking about Lori Mjor Taalid, a 43-year-old mother of two, whose body was found near the train overpass in March of 2005. Lori Mjor Taalid was found dead under this overpass in 2005. (Vancouver Police/Todd Unger) Between shelter life and street life, she spent a lot of time downtown near the Share House [shelter]. She was also known to spend time, more in daytime hours, near the Rose Quarter in Portland, said Goudschaal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lori moved around but always found her way back to Vancouver. When homeless advocates didnt see her around the holidays, or during the early weeks of 2005, that close-knit community started to wonder. Then, her body was found tucked away near the interstate in March. Right where the ground meets that bridge, theres a little bit of a recess, said Goudschaal. Thats the spot. Loris nephew, James Mjor, spoke to KOIN 6 on behalf of his last surviving aunt, and said the tragedy hit the larger family hard. She was always high on life and ready for that next adventure. I feel as though thats a positive thing my family holds onto, that she was a free spirit and loved to just go explore, said Mjor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives didnt have much to go on from the start. The scene was dirty, with trash piled up nearby, and the body had clearly been exposed to the rough elements of a Pacific Northwest winter for weeks. Its why investigators think the key to cracking the case is someone willing to simply come forward. Those are secrets that are often hard to keep. Theres potential that people in Portland, Vancouver area have heard a story or had someone told them something very specific in nature, said Goudschaal. Vancouver police wont reveal specifics on how Lori was killed, saying thats likely something only the killer, or killers, know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mjor hopes someone does come forward, so the family can find some semblance of justice and resolution even two decades later. That might be the last piece of the puzzle. If youre holding onto something, or you think its invaluable, really encourage anyone that has any information on Loris death to just provide that information, said Mjor. Vancouver police urge anyone who might have a tip to reach out to the department, or contact Det. Goudschaal at 360-487-7436 and dustin.goudschaal@cityofvancouver.us Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. WACO, TX (FOX 44) 2025 Central Texas Remarkable Women contest winner Inez Russell will be front and center on Ann Harders Central Texas Events podcast. You saw the revealing moment with Russell, who is the Executive Director of nonprofit Friends For Life, on Tuesday, April 1. Russell was a special guest on Central Texas Events on Thursday, which was recorded for a drop on Friday. Two supporters for an upcoming fundraiser were also in attendance. FOX 44s Vince Erickson caught up with Russell shortly before the recording of Ann Harders podcast, and told him being named the winner of the 2025 Central Texas Remarkable Women contest still has not fully sunk in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS STORY: 2025 Central Texas Remarkable Woman Winner Revealed Im blown away that I get to be part of this and I think what you guys do is amazing, Russell said. Theyve picked 125 women across the country and theyre flying them to Los Angeles, and were going to get to meet each other and hear their stories. I think what theyre doing is amazing. Russell will fly to Los Angeles on April 13. She will be among the 125 Remarkable Women winners nationwide. You can find the Central Texas Events with Ann Harder podcast on YouTube for the video version and anywhere you get your audio podcasts through the Rogue Media Network. The podcast will drop around 5 a.m. on Friday, April 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) Dessert lovers are in for a treat as downtown Amherst gears up for the 2025 Dessert Crawl on Saturday, April 12. Holyoke student gifted new bicycle by community after theft incident Scheduled from 3 to 6 p.m., the event invites community members of all ages to explore local businesses while enjoying a variety of decadent dessert samples and interactive activities. Organized by the Downtown Amherst Business Improvement District (BID), the crawl will feature sweet offerings from participating cafes, restaurants, and bakeries across the downtown area. Attendees will receive a wristband granting access to dessert tastings at each stop. Courtesy of Amherst Business Improvement District This is more than just a food event its a way to celebrate Amhersts vibrant small business community, said John Page, Executive Director of the Downtown Amherst BID. Were bringing people together for a fun afternoon filled with local flavor, family-friendly activities, and community connection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to dessert sampling, the crawl includes a scavenger hunt with fun challenges and the chance to win prizes donated by local shops and vendors. Participants will complete the scavenger tasks while moving between businesses, turning the event into a full-scale downtown adventure. Advance tickets are available for $20 on Eventbrite, and day-of tickets can be purchased for $25. All attendees must check in at the Amherst Visitors Information Center, located at 35 South Pleasant Street, to receive their event wristband. Participants are encouraged to park at the Boltwood Garage (1 Boltwood Walk) or use nearby metered street parking. The event is designed to be family-friendly and accessible to all. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. A special election to fill a vacancy in the South Carolina House will be June 3. The winner of the Democratic primary was declared Friday, April 4, 2025. (File photo by Travis Bell/STATEHOUSE CAROLINA/Special to the SC Daily Gazette) A 24-year-old Bishopville City Council member is officially the Democratic nominee for a House seat that unexpectedly became available in January. Keishan Scott, a councilman since first winning elected office in 2023, won by just 11 votes over Carl Whetsel, a retired chiropractor and former the Bishopville city councilman, according to Fridays recount. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the unofficial vote count for Tuesdays primary, Scott finished with a 10-vote advantage. An automatic recount was required under state law since the winning margin was less than 1%. Scott gained one vote via a provisional ballot when counties certified their tallies Thursday. Then on Friday, the states recount affirmed that Scott finished with 1,436 ballots, compared to Whetsels 1,425, said John Catalano, spokesman for the South Carolina Election Commission. It is the greatest joy of my life. I am elated, Scott told the SC Daily Gazette Friday. Keishan Scott will be the Democratic nominee in the June 3 special election to replace Will Wheeler. (Photo courtesy of Keishan Scott) Whetsel said it was a close race, and he hopes the rural Pee Dee district will have the best representation it can. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The special election is needed to fill the seat vacated by Rep. Will Wheeler, a Bishopville Democrat who announced his resignation just three days into the 2025 session. The district covers all of Lee County and parts of Kershaw and Sumter counties. Lee County had issues with counting votes in November and the recount for a state Senate race that ousted Hartsville Democrat Gerald Malloy, who ultimately conceded ahead of his scheduled challenge. Looking to avoid a repeat, the state Election Commission sent staff to Lee County to help out Tuesday, Catalano said. Wheelers resignation left the rural district without a representative for this years entire regular session, which ends in May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scott will face Republican William Oden, chairman of the Sumter County GOP, on June 3. No other Republican filed for the seat that has been traditionally held by a Democrat. There are currently 35 Democrats in the House. Republicans hold a supermajority with 88 seats. Scott is optimistic hell bring that number to 36 for next years legislative session. Im confident in our communities to show up and do what they did again, he said. TOPEKA (KSNT) A man accused of killing a 37-year-old Topeka man and kidnapping a child last year received his sentence this week. 27 News checked with Shawnee County court records that show Rammelo H. Boatwright, 24, received 475 months or just under 40 years in prison for his part in the death of Kyle E. Higgins in 2024. Boatwright previously pleaded guilty on Jan. 28 this year to the following charges: Murder in the second degree. Aggravated robbery. Kidnapping. Two counts of battery on a law enforcement officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WATCH: Satanic Grotto leader taken away in handcuffs at the Kansas Statehouse Rammelo H. Boatwrights mugshot. (Photo Courtesy/Shawnee County Department of Corrections) The Topeka Police Department (TPD) was called into action around 4:15 a.m. on Aug. 20 on reports of an aggravated robbery near the intersection of Southwest 29th Street and Southwest MacVicar Avenue. Police were told a vehicle was stolen that still had a child inside. Dana Chandler sentencing date set in Topeka after guilty verdict in double-murder trial Law enforcement later arrested Boatwright and a second man, Lorenzo, A. Pattmon III, 22, after a chase that ended near Southeast 29th Street and Southeast Minnesota Avenue. The child was later located by police near the 3200 block of Southwest Central Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Higgins was located by law enforcement around 8:30 a.m. on the same day suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he died of his injuries. The Shawnee County District Attorneys Office charged Boatwright and Pattmon for the kidnapping, police chase and death of Higgins. Boatwright was initially charged with 13 counts in total including murder in the first degree, robbery, aggravated endangering of a child and battery. However, the majority of these charges were dismissed in January 2025. Pattmon is awaiting a jury trial which is scheduled to begin in June this year. He pleaded not guilty in January to charges of murder in the first degree, aggravated robbery, aggravated endangering of a child and other crimes. 18-year-old sentenced to 18 years in prison for shooting death of Topeka teen Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more crime 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. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WWLP) Bay Path University held its 28th annual Womens Leadership Conference Thursday to help give women a voice. You could feel the energy and excitement for this sold-out event. Over 1,600 people came out to see their biggest idols take the stage. Speakers focused on this years theme Amplify, a call to step into confidence, boost voices, and harness potential. Inside the MassMutual Center, the audience got to hear from Former NBC Today co-host Hoda Kotb. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The day also featured speeches from researcher and bestselling author Erin King as well as a former reporter for our sister station in Denver, Colorado. Her name is a similar oneAmelia Rose Earheart. She honored the legacy of Amelia Mary Earheart in finishing out her mission to fly around the worldin a single-engine aircraft. Its about finding whatever your version of your flight around the world is because its going to be tough and challenging, Earheart told 22News. And if you accomplish it in the end, you can look back and learn from all those mistakes, but celebrate the wins as well. Earheart hopes that her speech will inspire women to want to grow and find their purpose. She says you never know whats next. She adds her flight experience was a fun path in her life and led her to exactly where she needed to be. The Baypath University President says this event can encourage women to be contributors, and high performers, or lead and mentor others. The options are limitless. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) A new professional flight program is taking off at the Springdale Municipal Airport. John Brown University says its partnering with Airo at the airport. According to its website, Airo, formerly FlyARH, is an aviation company that provides helicopter tours of the Ozarks and flight training. JBU says the new partnership is a way to return to the universitys history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the late 1930s, JBU had a flight school that trained students on an airstrip in Siloam Springs. The university says its great to be back in the skies once again. Theres a critical need for pilots around the country, and we have a lot of interest in flight here in Northwest Arkansas, says university president Dr. Charles Chip Pollard. So we know that we have lots of students, actually, we have a young family here. I think theres a 12 or 14-year-old thats hoping to be part of JBU now because we have a flight school as a part of our program. Pokemon trade show planned for Fayetteville John Brown University will be the second professional flight school in Arkansas with this partnership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will allow JBU students to receive full flight training and a degree to become pilots. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Agreements on three solar energy projects were signed in Baku as part of the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council, Trend reports via Azerbaijan's Energy Ministry. The country's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov and CEO of the Enerso Jabrayil LLC Eldar Mammadzade signed the Investment Agreement relating to the Ufuq Solar PV Project with a capacity of 50 MW in Azerbaijan between the country's government and the LLC. Shahbazov and CEO of the Clean Energy Jabrayil LLC Khayala Nagiyeva signed Investment Agreement relating to the Shams Solar PV Project with a capacity of 50 MW in Azerbaijan between the country's government and the LLC. Deputy Energy Minister Elnur Soltanov and CEO of Nobel Energy Limited Vugar Samadli signed Implementation Agreement relating to the Assessment, Development and Implementation of 30 MW Solar Plant in the Republic of Azerbaijan (Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic) between the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan and Nobel Energy Limited. The projects, which are important for the development of the green energy zone, are expected to generate 268 million kWh of electricity annually, saving 59 million cubic meters of gas and reducing 128,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Apr. 3MINNEAPOLIS Three people have been indicted on conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and firearm charges for allegedly trafficking fentanyl to Bemidji and the Red Lake Nation. According to court documents, from April through September 2024, 38-year-old La'veal O'Neal Allen, of Minneapolis, 28-year-old Marquise Javon Walker, of Lakeville, and 37-year-old Michaela Karon McKinney, of New Hope, knowingly conspired with each other to possess and distribute fentanyl. The indictment charges Allen, Walker and McKinney with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, according to a release from the U.S. Department of Justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allen was also charged with felon in possession of a firearm, the release said. As the indictment details, Allen's criminal history includes multiple felonies, including two convictions for first-degree aggravated robbery and a conviction for a predatory offender registration violation. Because Allen has prior felony convictions, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time. "Fentanyl continues to flood communities throughout Minnesota, and unfortunately, we see some of the highest rates of overdose and addiction on our (tribal reservation land)," Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick said in the release. "This trio of defendants has plagued the Red Lake Nation and the Bemidji area for years. No more. My office will ensure these purveyors of poison see federal justice." This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. "An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law," the release noted. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) Three people have been arrested for their roles in a widespread vehicle theft ring, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office. Rayge Sanchez, 40, Christian Garcia Diaz, 26, and Jose Nunez, 29, are believed to have stolen several semi-trucks and dump trucks from multiple Florida counties, with the total loss valued at more than $6 million, investigators said. Woman sleeping in car in Port Richey wakes to armed burglar trying to get in: police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The thefts spanned back as far as September 2024, according to authorities. Deputies said the suspects targeted vehicles throughout Tampa Bay, with thefts reported in Hillsborough, Polk, Hernando, Pasco, Sarasota and Pinellas counties. A month-long investigation by the HCSOs Auto Theft Unit led to the identification of the three suspects, who are now each facing multiple counts of grand theft over $100,000 and charges for RICO conspiracy or endeavor. These werent just stolen trucks; these were critical tools for businesses, livelihoods for families, and key components of infrastructure projects across our region, said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. Thanks to the relentless work of our Auto Theft Unit and our partners at the Statewide Prosecutors Office, weve stopped a major criminal enterprise that was taking from those who help drive our economy forward. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Three more teenagers have been charged with murder for their involvement in the killing of an 18-year-old man in Tacoma who was shot while surrounded by the suspects in an apartment building elevator. Kaleb Prince Tramble and Kaleb Johnny Whiteside, both 16, were charged as adults Thursday with first-degree murder and first-degree conspiracy to commit murder in Pierce County Superior Court. Tramble was additionally charged with second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm. Bench warrants were issued for their arrest. In Washington, 16-year-olds who are charged with a serious violent offense such as murder are automatically moved to adult court. According to charging documents, Tramble and Whiteside were recently on electronic home monitoring in King County for unrelated felonies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Messiah Washington was killed in the Feb. 22 shooting. He was a student at the Willie Stewart Academy and lived with his father on the third floor of the apartment building in the 1100 block of South L Street. Relatives previously told The News Tribune that Washington was his fathers best friend and took care of him. Messiah Washington, 18, was fatally shot inside an apartment building on Feb. 22, 2025 in Tacoma. The third defendant, a 15-year-old boy who allegedly was the first to shoot the victim, was charged March 18 in Pierce County Juvenile Court with first-degree murder, first-degree conspiracy to commit murder and second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm, according to Adam Faber, a spokesperson for the Prosecuting Attorneys Office. Faber said a bench warrant was issued for his arrest the same day, and he is not yet in custody. A fourth defendant who lived in the Hilltop apartment building where the shooting occurred was arrested and charged in March in juvenile court with second-degree murder and second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm. The 15-year-old boy pleaded not guilty at arraignment and was ordered to be held in detention at Remann Hall. Prosecutors are seeking to charge him as an adult. The News Tribune generally does not name juveniles who have not been charged as adults for a crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charging documents in Tramble and Whitesides cases dont describe a possible motive in the shooting. Washingtons father, Jacque, told detectives he thought his son might have owed the alleged shooters money, but he wasnt sure. When the first arrest was made March 5, the 15-year-olds mother allegedly told detectives her son had said the other suspects told him Washington was clutching a gun, which made them nervous, and that was how everything happened. A revolver that belonged to Washington was found at the scene, but surveillance video allegedly shows that it was never visible before he was shot and the gun, which was loaded with five bullets, wasnt fired. The probable cause document details surveillance video from inside the elevator where Washington was shot. It was initially reported that the elevators camera didnt work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the document, Washington got on the elevator from the first floor at about 9:12 p.m. and took it to the third floor. Washington got off, and the four suspects who had just knocked on Washingtons apartment door got on the elevator. Washington followed them. Detectives reported that Washington appeared to be looking for someone and was texting on his phone. When he got on, he stood in the middle of the elevator car surrounded by the suspects and didnt appear to say anything to them. One of the alleged shooters gestured with a head roll for another suspect to move away from Washington, according to the document. Washington then adjusted his shorts on both sides of his body. [Defendant] then immediately pulls his gun from underneath his coat with his left hand and shoots the victim multiple times at a very close distance, the probable cause document states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington fell to the floor, and Tramble allegedly appears to shoot him once more. Records state Washington grabbed his revolver, but it slipped from his hand and he collapsed. After the elevator door opened on the 6th floor, the four suspects ran down the hallway. The group went down a stairwell, and surveillance video showed them exit the building at 9:14 p.m. The group fled south through an alley toward Earnest S. Brazill Street. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) The family of a Salem cyclist who was killed in a crash involving a DEA special agent has now sued the State of Oregon, Oregon State Police and the Oregon Department of Justice. The suit was filed on behalf of Marganne Allen in Marion County on March 21 by Mark Meleason, who is in charge of her estate. The plaintiff has accused all of the defendants of being negligent in the wrongful death that occurred in spring 2023. Nike, Columbia stocks plunge one day after Trump announced foreign tariffs Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That year, KOIN 6 reported that a cyclist, later identified as 58-year-old Allen, died at a hospital following a crash at the intersection of Southeast Leslie Street and High Street on March 28. The incident occurred as Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Samuel Landis drove a pickup truck while working with Oregon State Police and the Salem Police Departments drug enforcement task force. According to court documents, Landis unnecessarily violated state traffic laws by speeding past a stop sign in the residential neighborhood. Further, the plaintiff alleges the defendants failed to train Landis on how to properly drive during surveillance missions. The suit additionally said the defendants failed to properly supervise Landis or should have known improper supervision would result in a potential injury/death of a civilian. Oregon is doling out $11M in unclaimed funds. Heres how to find out if youre owed money Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Landis was charged with criminally negligent homicide in September 2023. The special agents attorneys filed a notice to move the case to federal court the following month, arguing that his actions were necessary due to his role as a federal officer. However, on January 22, 2024, U.S. District Judge Michael J. McShane ruled Landis was entitled to federal immunity and dismissed the case. On Feb. 13, Meleason then filed a federal complaint in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, accusing Landis, city officials, the U.S., and several law enforcement agencies of negligence. First reported in the Statesman Journal, Meleason next filed a motion on March 26 for partial voluntary dismissal of the state defendants included in the federal case. As a result, the claims against the U.S., Landis, the DEA, Salem Police and the City of Salem would remain in the federal case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the state complaint, Meleason is now seeking more than $9.5 million in the wrongful death suit. KOIN 6 has reached out to the Oregon State Police for a statement, but the agency does not comment on pending litigation. When the Oregon DOJ was reached for comment, a spokesperson noted they are in the process of reviewing the case. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) An Augusta woman accused of striking a pedestrian in December 2024, leaving her critically injured, has been sentenced to prison. Alexandria Rodriguezs first appearance on Dec. 5, 2024 (KSN Photo) Alexandria Rodriguez was sentenced Thursday to 38 months (3 years and 2 months) in prison for the Dec. 2, 2024, crash at Lincoln and Rock Road that left Katherine Slagle critically injured. Slagle has spent months recovering from traumatic brain injuries caused by the crash. Slagle was in the crosswalk when she was struck by Rodriguez, shortly after 6 p.m. Her family is still accepting donations to help pay for her medical care through GoFundMe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the crash, Rodriguez had three children in her car. She was charged with one count of aggravated battery; DUI, three counts of child endangerment, and one count of driving while suspended. Ex-Kansas police chief, three others guilty of child porn production In February, she pled guilty to aggravated battery and aggravated child endangerment as part of a plea deal. In addition to the 38-month sentence, Rodriguez has been ordered to pay $17,000 in restitution to her victim. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) Crews from the Miami Conservancy District are on alert and have started to close floodgates in the area. According to MCD, two floodgates in West Carrollton and one in Hamilton and Middletown have closed due to the potential of flooding. Between 0.25 to 1.50 inches have been recorded in the watershed over the past 24 hours. The previous 48 hours prior to that reached 1.50 to 2.50 inches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Due to saturated ground conditions and additional rainfall expected through the weekend, river levels may peak on Saturday, potentially ranking among the top 10 events recorded since the flood protection systems construction in 1922, said MCD. Currently, the Englewood, Germantown, Huffman, Lockington and Taylorsville dams have been storing water. While MCDs flood protection system is designed to handle the amount of water, workers are continuing to monitor conditions. Drivers should never attempt to drive through flooded areas. If you come across a flooded area, turn around and head back the other way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Be careful, listen to advisories certainly dont go near fast flowing water, said Mike Ekberg with MCD. Dont try to drive through water on the roadways. You know, exercise precaution. If you have a flooding concern, report it here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Four people are dead after a crash in Mississippi County, Arkansas. According to the Arkansas State Police, the crash happened on South Division Street in rural Mississippi County just before 5:30 p.m. Wednesday. According to ASP, two vehicles were involved in the crash. A vehicle traveling north lost control and struck a vehicle that was traveling south on the street. Police say that vehicle then left the roadway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arkansas State Police say that both drivers and two passengers were killed in the crash. ASP has identified the victims as 19-year-old Ella Gall, 48-year-old Rachel Gall, 56-year-old Linzy Gall, and 79-year-old Clyde ONeal. Arkansas State Police say that all four victims were from Blytheville, Arkansas. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Sign up for CNNs Wonder Theory science newsletter. Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more. SpaceX is wrapping up the latest chapter in its commercial human spaceflight endeavors with the return of Fram2. The mission carried four passengers in a unique orbit around Earth that allowed humans to pass directly over the North and South poles for the first time. Led by cryptocurrency billionaire Chun Wang, who is the financier of this mission, the Fram2 crew has been free-flying through orbit since Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group splashed down at 9:19 a.m. PT, or 12:19 p.m. ET, off the coast of California the first West Coast landing in SpaceXs five-year history of human spaceflight missions. The company livestreamed the splashdown and recovery of the capsule on its website. During the journey, the Fram2 crew members were slated to carry out various research projects, including capturing images of auroras from space and documenting their experiences with motion sickness. The ailment proved to be a significant issue for the crew, according to social media posts from Wang, who made his fortune with Bitcoin mining operations and is an avid traveler on Earth. The recovery crew reaches the Fram2 mission Dragon capsule off the coast of California on Friday in this screenshot from video. - From SpaceX The first few hours in microgravity werent exactly comfortable, Wang said in a post on X, the social media platform owned by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk. Space motion sickness hit all of us we felt nauseous and ended up vomiting a couple of times. It felt different from motion sickness in a car or at sea. You could still read on your iPad without making it worse. But even a small sip of water could upset your stomach and trigger vomiting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fortunately, Wang added, By the second morning, I felt completely refreshed. The crew shared a batch of images and videos, captured from a bulbous window or cupola at the tip of the 13-foot-wide (4-meter-wide), gumdrop-shaped Crew Dragon capsule. Wang said he was surprised to see that Antarctica appeared only pure white and no human activity (was) visible from his vantage point aboard the spacecraft. Riding along with Wang were Norwegian film director Jannicke Mikkelsen, Germany-based robotics researcher Rabea Rogge and Australian adventurer Eric Philips. All four Fram2 crew members have ties to polar exploration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fram2 is an untraditional mission, Mikkelsen said at a March 28 discussion on X. Were not your typical NASA astronauts. Weve gone from nothing to being certified astronauts to fly. A few firsts This trip is privately funded, and such missions allow for SpaceXs customers to spend their time in space as they see fit. For Fram2, the crew traveled to orbit prepared to carry out 22 research and science experiments, some of which were designed and overseen by SpaceX. Most of the research involves evaluating crew health. Upon the splashdown return off the coast of California, for example, the crew carried out an egress experiment. That objective tested the passengers ability to exit their spacecraft on their own after returning to Earth. After most human spaceflight missions, astronauts are aided by personnel on the ground. (However, most of these missions carry astronauts to the space station, where they live in microgravity for months, which means returning crew must readapt to Earths gravity.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One at a time, the passengers tested getting out of their seats by themselves, taking off their foot rests, and bending down to grab their survival gear, which weighed about 35 pounds, according to Marissa Rosenberg, a senior medical research engineer at SpaceX, who provided commentary during a webcast of the Fram2 splashdown. The egress experiment was just one of the firsts related to this splashdown. Another involved the landing site: A crewed SpaceX mission has never returned from space and splashed down off the coast of California. The companys crewed missions so far have returned near Florida. SpaceX has said it would move its recovery operations to the West Coast for safety reasons. The Dragon capsule had to eject a cylindrical attachment at its base called the trunk as it reentered the atmosphere. Returning from space in California helped ensure that piece of hardware was safely disposed of in the ocean, rather than risking its disposal over land. What the Fram2 crew did in space Satellites are routinely launched into orbit around Earths poles. So while the Fram2 crews view from space had previously been captured, it was experienced through human eyes for the first time during this flight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No crewed mission had ever traveled directly over the planets poles from Earth orbit. The frigid caps of our home planet are invisible to humans on board the International Space Station, for example, which orbits near Earths equatorial line. Before Fram2, a 1963 Soviet mission called Vostok 6 carrying Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman to travel to space came the closest to a polar orbit, flying at a 65-degree inclination. Fram2, however, aimed for a 90-degree orientation, meaning its flying perpendicular to the equator. From orbit, the Fram2 crew was able to set its sights on Svalbard, a group of Norwegian islands near the North Pole where the Fram2 participants met. And Wang highlighted the uniqueness of their vantage point. I often say Fram2 is a Svalbard mission. We @framonauts all met on Svalbard, and we love the ice, Wang wrote in a post shared Thursday evening. The mission was planned when I lived there, and we fly polar because, in an ISS-like orbit, we are unable to see where we live. From this perspective, the mission has perfectly achieved its goal. The first X-ray ever captured of a human hand (left) is shown compared with the first X-ray created in space during the Fram2 mission in this screenshot from video. - From SpaceX Putting the Fram2 crew and spacecraft into polar orbit may have had more to do with planning a distinctive mission rather than one ideally suited for science, said Dr. Christopher Combs, the associate dean of research at the Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a private mission. You need something to say thats different and exciting about it, Combs said. Orbital trajectory aside, the crew members were able to lend their bodies to research, perhaps expanding knowledge of how humans can optimally live and work within the confines of a tiny spacecraft something that may be necessary for months at a time if humans ever venture to Mars. The Fram2 crews research included Mikkelsen and Rogge using urine testing strips to measure their hormone levels in an attempt to gather novel health data about how women are affected by spaceflight. The two astronauts each wore a wellness-tracking Oura Ring, which collected data about how well they slept in the confines of the capsule with no gravity. The crewmates also attempted to grow mushrooms in space and have allowed their brains to be mapped and imaged for science. The Fram2 crew (from left) Eric Philips, Rabea Rogge, Jannicke Mikkelsen and Chun Wang are seen inside the Dragon capsule during splashdown on April 4 in this screenshot from video. - From SpaceX Dr. Eric Donovan, an aurora expert with the University of Calgarys department of physics and astronomy, also told CNN that he was excited by the prospect of seeing new images of aurora-like light shows from space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donovan is one of the worlds foremost experts on Steve, a light spectacle that has only recently been studied and is occasionally visible in northern latitudes during an aurora. Taking photographs of aurora and other polar light shows has not been done extensively from space, as astronauts on the International Space Station can typically only attempt to capture such photographs in their spare time, he noted. Thats one of the things that maybe is a good thing in self-funded spaceflight: because its self-funded, you can do whatever you want, Donovan said. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A Virgin Atlantic flight diverted halfway through its journey from London to Mumbai. The Airbus A350 landed at an airport in Turkey and didn't take off for another 40 hours. Passengers spent the first night in the departure lounge before hotels could be arranged. Airline passengers have been delayed nearly two days after a medical emergency forced an unexpected stopover. Virgin Atlantic Flight 358 took off from London Heathrow Airport at midday Wednesday and was scheduled to land in Mumbai around nine hours later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, data from Flightradar24 shows the Airbus A350 turned around over Turkey four hours into the journey. It diverted to Diyarbakr Airport, which is also used as a military base and doesn't usually accommodate large, wide-body planes like the A350. The airport is around 2,300 miles as the crow flies from Mumbai and 2,100 miles from London. An airline spokesperson told Business Insider that one of the passengers was severely unwell and was helped by local medical teams after leaving the plane. The A350 also required technical inspections, which appear to have exacerbated the delay. Some passengers took to X to complain about the ordeal, sharing a video of the disgruntled crowd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One user said that 12 hours after landing, passengers were yet to receive "proper food or accommodation." In an X post, the airline said customers had to stay in the departure lounge overnight because it was outside the airport's operating hours while refreshments, including water, were provided. There were also difficulties with immigration requirements before airport authorities "made an exception to allow passengers to leave the airport temporarily," another post from the airline said. "The majority of our customers were provided with overnight hotel accommodation ahead of their onward journey today," the Virgin Atlantic spokesperson told BI Friday. "We'd like to sincerely apologize for the delay and any inconvenience caused." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They added that, after receiving the necessary technical approvals, the flight was set to continue at noon local time on Friday almost 41 hours after landing in Diyarbakr. The Airbus A350 is scheduled to land in Mumbai at 8:30 p.m. local time Friday. Read the original article on Business Insider BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. European business and investors are interested in developing a dynamic renewable energy sector in Azerbaijan, European Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jrgensen said during the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council in Baku, Trend reports. "There is a clear interest from both regional partners and European businesses and investors to develop a dynamic renewable energy sector in Azerbaijan. This opens up great opportunities for the development of regional interconnectivity, market integration, and creation of value chains in the field of clean technologies," he said. Baku is hosting today the 11th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council. The meeting is attended by 24 countries, 7 international financial institutions and 42 energy companies, as well as ministers, deputy ministers and other high-ranking representatives. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Five Americans have pleaded guilty to their role in an online sextortion scheme based out of Nigeria that federal authorities said led to the death of an Upper Peninsula teen. Federal investigators said the last two of the five defendants Johnathan Green and Jarell Williams, both of Georgia pleaded guilty Wednesday. Two others, Brian Goldmon Jr. and Kendall London, also Georgia, had pleaded March 26. The fifth, Dinsimore Robinson of Alabama, pleaded Jan. 22. All five were indicted last year on a count each of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 Nigerian brothers sentenced for sextortion that led to teens death Two men from Nigeria were already extradited to the U.S., pleaded guilty and were sentenced to prison for running the sextortion scheme, which tricked people into sending them explicit images of themselves and then using those images as blackmail. Federal prosecutors say the scheme reached more than 100 victims. Investigators say the threats pushed 17-year-old Jordan DeMay of Marquette to take his own life in March 2022. Authorities say the money garnered from sextortion victims was sent through payment apps to the five American launderers, who kept about 20% and then converted the rest to bitcoin and sent it overseas. These individuals helped and profited from this awful, heartbreaking scheme and so they now will face the consequences, Acting U.S. Attorney Birge said in a statement Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sextortion bills named for UP teenager who fell victim If you or someone you know is targeted with a sextortion scheme, report the predators account on the social media app. Share it with local law enforcement or the FBI at 1.800.CALL.FBI or tips.fbi.gov. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. Those caught in the path of an EF1 tornado that ripped through New Goshen on Wednesday night discussed finding themselves perilously close to danger, yet they expressed relief that although there was much structural damage, no one was injured. MET 040325 NEW GOSHEN TORNADO DAMAGE Damage caused by Wednesday nights tornado can be seen on the streets of New Goshen as residents clean up and repair their homes Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The twister came from the southwest a gaping hole in a distant tree line offers a clue as to where it came from. Its northeasterly direction took it just east across the road from Fayette Elementary School in northwest Vigo County. Jimmy Hobson, who came up through the spotter program with the National Weather Service, identified the phenomena as a rain-wrapped tornado, which spins so strongly that it pulls rain into it. Therefore, its difficult to ID as a tornado it looks like a rain wall coming at you, he said. Greg Melo, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, on Thursday evening said one of that agencys survey teams had visited New Goshen and found that an EF1 tornado had struck the community. The tornado had peak winds of 110 mph, a path length of about 4.45 miles, and a width of about 100 yards, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tornado was first detected about 8:14 p.m. near the state line or in nearby Illinois, and it was still considered EF0 near West New Goshen. It proceeded onward, hitting New Goshen and producing high-end EF1 damages, he said. NWS team notes submitted Thursday included damage to New Goshen homes and the destruction of a large garage. In some cases, full walls were picked up and thrown over other structures, he added. Many of the damaged structures could be categorized as near-total or total loss. The tornado weakened and/or moved on about 8:22 p.m. garage Lyndsay McCulloughs SUV stands near what remains of her garage its roof flew into a neighbors garage after Wednesday nights tornado in New Goshen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hobson said hes chased tornadoes with friends, but this time, the tornado chased him. Thats a first, he said Thursday. It was moving a lot quicker than I expected. Ive been through similar things, but its been in a car and never standing outside. As I turned to go back inside, I was getting pelted, he added. It was right here behind my aunts house. He gestured to an area 15 yards away. Michael Webster tried to get a glimpse of the tornado that tore off almost half his roof and pancaked his garage with two vehicles inside. We were watching [WTWO meteorologist] Jesse Walker and the power went off, he recalled. I told my wife, Im going to go outside and see whats happening. I got to the dining room and our front door was cracked open a little bit and all of a sudden all the windows in the front porch just blew toward us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I looked over and saw my roof blow off and I came out here and saw my [collapsed] garage, and all of five seconds is all it took, he added. Webster was hoping to get a tarp over his roof before Thursdays rain struck. It was scary, he said. They dont know if theyre going to be able to save the house or not I dont think theyll be able to. It was scary. Were lucky were alive. I didnt see or hear anything besides wind. Then, just bang! And it was over with right quick. window Michael Leslies dining area took in on the chin from Wednesday nights tornado in New Goshen. Mike Leslie was blown into his bedroom by a blast of wind. He had finished watching an episode of a Netflix series from his living-room recliner and headed to the kitchen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The wind didnt roar it just kept getting louder and stronger, he said. I was on my way to the kitchen, and when I got to my bedroom door, it just exploded. It was a boom and it actually knocked me into my bedroom. I just grabbed the door and shut it and dropped to my knees. I could hear stuff flying around in the living room and outside. The kitchen Leslie didnt quite reach was hit the hardest. If I had just been one or two steps past my bedroom door, it would have been a different story for me, he said. Leslies roof wasnt damaged as extensively as his neighbor Websters was, but there was a huge chasm in it; a separate gust blew a pile of debris on top of his dining table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats part of my neighbors roof, Leslie said, pointing to a chunk of wood stabbing through a wall, but that white soffit over there [on Websters house], thats mine. So we just traded roof parts. It was really wild. Im convinced it came between my house and my neighbors house. Leslie sustained a cut on his arm; a firefighter checked him out and made sure he was OK. Hes in much better condition than his home. Im think its gonna have to come down and start over, he said, resigned to his buildings fate. Lyndsay McCulloughs garage was largely blown into a neighbors garage, but her home remained intact. She and her daughter Addison surveyed the damage her SUV had been in the garage, but now it was exposed to the elements with shattered windows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MET 040325 NEW GOSHEN WINDOWS The windows in Michael Websters home can be seen boarded up Thursday after they were blown out by Wednesdays tornado in New Goshen. My husband Larry had just pulled into the garage five minutes before it hit, she said. Thankfully, he got out of the garage and was in the house when it happened. I was going to look outside to see what was going on. All of a sudden, it got super quiet and then it sounded like a freight train and then just this massive wind rushed the house. She continued, I hollered for my daughter and we got into the closet, just trying to keep safe, and then a couple of minutes later, a neighbor [Webster] came over, knocked on our door and said, Hey, your garage is gone. Mine is smashed half my roof is missing. It was very surreal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McCullough considers herself lucky that this was her first encounter with a twister. I grew up in Kansas in the middle of a cornfield, and the entire time I was there, thankfully, I never witnessed one, but to be this close and to still have our house standing, were very blessed in that aspect. she said. The wind was absolutely crazy, she added. Its definitely an experience and definitely something I dont want to go through again. While watching Jesse Walkers ongoing report Wednesday night, Beverly Noblitts curiosity was piqued. I knew it was at the state line, so thats why I went outside to see if I could see anything, she said. I thought, Were getting it, so I went back in and by the time I got in, it had hit. I just got inside when it hit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The southwest corner of Noblitts homes roof was taken out and a picture window was blown out, but nothing else in her home was damaged. The garage was another story McCulloughs garage was blown into Noblitts, collapsing its ceiling on her new 2024 Honda CRV. Repairs on her home were already underway. My nephew is a contractor, so hes on the roof putting decking on and tarps for the next storm., she said. collapse Wednesday nights apparent tornado in New Goshen pancaked Michael Websters garage. Two cars are inside it. Everyone was resigned to their homes fates, but all were more vested in the fact that no one in the area was injured. God is good, and He was with us, Noblitt said. Material things can be replaced, McCullough said. Im just glad that nobody was hurt, which is great. We all have our health and our lives and well just get back to building and living life. Hobson added, Houses can be rebuilt, items can be replaced lives cant. President Trump on Thursday confirmed a reported purge of national security agencies this week, with firings of at least a half dozen officials in both the Pentagons National Security Agency (NSA) and the White Houses National Security Council. The move came the day after Laura Loomer, a political activist linked to far-right conspiracies, met with Trump in the White House and reportedly brought a list of national security officials who couldnt be trusted. Here are five things to know about the firings on the national security team. At least 8 fired so far The purge of national security officials so far includes six at the National Security Council, which is overseen by national security adviser Mike Waltz, and the top two leaders of the NSA, an intelligence agency within the Department of Defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those out at the council include Brian Walsh, senior director of intelligence; Thomas Boodry, senior director of legislative affairs; and David Feith, senior director of technology and national security. The New York Times also reported that Maggie Dougherty, the senior director for international organizations, was forced out. Boodry was also an aide to Waltz when he was House member in Congress. Also sacked Thursday was Gen. Timothy D. Haugh, who led both the NSA and U.S. Cyber Command, and his deputy, Wendy Noble, who has reportedly been reassigned within the Pentagon. Sen. Mark Warner (Va.) and Rep. Jim Himes (Conn.), the top Democrats on their respective intelligence committees, blasted the removal of Haugh in particular. Warner noted the timing, coming a week after Trumps national security officials faced backlash to reporting about their use of a Signal chat for military planning and accidentally inviting a journalist into the group chat. It is astonishing that President Trump would fire the nonpartisan, experienced leader of the NSA while still failing to hold any member of his team accountable for leaking classified information on a commercial messaging app even as he apparently takes staffing direction on national security from a discredited conspiracy theorist in the Oval Office, Warner wrote on social platform X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loomer reveled in Haughs ouster in posts Friday on X. As a Biden appointee, General Haugh had no place serving in the Trump admin given the fact that he was HAND PICKED by General Milley, who was accused of committing treason by President Trump, she wrote, referring to former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Mark Milley. Why would we want Milleys hand picked choice for NSA DIRECTOR? We do not! And thus, he was referred for firing, she added. Loomer also called Noble a protege of James Clapper, who served as director of national intelligence in the Obama administration and has been deeply critical of Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She is a Trump hater who was nominated by JOE BIDEN, Loomer wrote. Lt. Gen. William J. Hartman, Haughs deputy at Cyber Command, will reportedly be the acting director of the NSA. Meanwhile, Trump responded no not all Thursday when asked if Loomer had anything to do with National Security Council firings and confirmed a couple of aides at the council were fired. The president wouldnt say the aides she recommended he fire. Loomers influence in spotlight The president on Thursday called Loomer a great patriot and a very strong person, though he played down her final say in the firings. She makes recommendations on things and people, and sometimes I listen to those recommendations, like I do with everybody. I listen to everybody, and then I make a decision, Trump said. She always has something to say, usually very constructive she recommended some people for jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yesterday, she recommended some people for jobs, he said. Loomers influence on the president has grown over the years, despite her promotion of conspiracy theories about the attacks on the U.S. on 9/11 and her anti-Muslim rhetoric. During the campaign, she reportedly was considered for an official role, but Trump aides at the time suggested she keep a distance. Still, Trump made headlines when she joined him for a visit to a 9/11 memorial ceremony last September, in the presidential campaigns home stretch. Sources say Trump has listened to Loomer in the past, stemming from her loyalty to him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not surprised because from her reputation during the campaign, it was clear that she had access and the president listened to her, a source close to the White House said of this weeks news. Her social media presence, its always been this extremely pro Trump, pro MAGA and he is drawn to people like that. If youre loyal to him, he will listen to you. The source warned Loomers influence could prove problematic for White House officials seeking to manage access to Trump. [Loomer] can walk into the White House grounds, obviously shes talking to him, having a meeting with him that impacts peoples jobs thats a problem, the source said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another source close to the Trump team called the meeting and its aftermath a telling episode that highlights how MAGA allies are important to the president. Waltz again at center of storm The firings at the National Security Council put Waltz, the national security adviser, at the center of the storm, adding to a run of scandals over the last two weeks. Waltz and chief of staff Susie Wiles were in the meeting with Loomer at the White House this week. When the president was asked Thursday if he trusts his national security staff, he replied, theyve done very well, citing success with the strikes on the Houthis. The president has stuck by Waltz in the wake of the report from The Atlantic detailing the Signal chat. Trump last week said he claimed responsibility for the Signal incident, but no one including Waltz is expected to be fired over the situation that the White House later said is a closed case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was Mike, I guess. I dont know. I was told it was Mike, Trump said last week. Mike he took responsibility for it. Politico reported Wednesday that Waltz had set up 20 or more Signal groups to coordinate work on issues ranging from Ukraine to China and the Middle East. There are also lingering questions within Trump World over why Waltz had Atlantic Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldbergs contact info in his phone in the first place. Goldberg said Waltz inadvertently added him to the chat, which included Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth laying out plans for the attack. The White House said the plans were not considered classified and defended the use of Signal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Waltz said Goldbergs Signal number was unintentionally imported into his phone along with another contact. Raises national security concerns The National Security Council ousters have rankled those in the national security and defense communities, with critics of the move expressing concern the firings would serve to weaken U.S. intelligence and security. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), who sits on both the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence committees, said it raises eyebrows when there is a firing of people on the National Security Council or their staff, particularly people that we have respect for, who were part of the Intel community to begin with here in the Senate, according to The Associated Press. Particularly strong criticism has been aired over the firing of Haugh, who had led the NSA and U.S. Cyber Command since 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haugh oversaw the agencies significant roles in U.S. cybersecurity the NSA collects and analyzes huge amounts of information to support the military and other federal national security agencies, while U.S. Cyber Command plans offensive operations against enemies and defends U.S. networks. Warner, the Senate Intelligence Committee ranking member, indicated in a statement that Haughs firing would likely make the U.S. more vulnerable. At a time when the United States is facing unprecedented cyber threats how does firing him make Americans any safer? Himes, the senior House intel Democrat, sent a letter Friday to Hegseth and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, demanding a justification for the removal of Haugh and Noble. These abrupt and unjustified actions threaten to disrupt the activities of the NSA at a time when we face many threats to our national security, Himes wrote. Given the critical importance of these positions to our national security and the rash nature of the dismissals, the public and your congressional overseers require a clear explanation of the rationale and circumstances behind these decisions. More firings could be coming Some of the top targets for Loomer and other far-right influencers were not among those reportedly fired, at least so far. Loomer has been highly critical of Alex Wong, the deputy national security adviser, over issues ranging from his wifes former work at the Justice Department under Democratic presidents to his familys ties to Taiwan. She even suggested he was responsible for Waltz inviting Goldberg of The Atlantic into the administrations group chat about attacks on Houthi rebels in Yemen. Wong is not alone on Loomers grievance list. She has publicly called for the dismissals of Maria Proestou, a deputy assistant secretary of the Navy; Ivan Kanapathy, the National Security Council director for Asia; and Katrina Fotovat, the head of the State Departments Office of Global Womens Issues, according to the Times. And Loomer has said LGBTQ liaisons at the Veterans Affairs Department should be fired and has targeted an unidentified National Security Council staffer who she said was transgender and hates President Trump. When asked if more firings could be coming, National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes told The Hill the council does not comment on personnel matters. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. From left, South Dakota Speaker of the House Jon Hansen, R-Dell Rapids, Lt. Gov. Tony Venhuizen, and Ryan Brunner, an adviser to Gov. Larry Rhoden, participate in a Project Prison Reset meeting on April 3, 2025, at the Military Heritage Alliance in Sioux Falls. (John Hult/South Dakota Searchlight) SIOUX FALLS A $729,000 consultant contract will be added to the roughly $50 million South Dakota has already spent on a stalled prison construction effort. State officials signed a contract this week to pay a consultant to repeat and update a $323,000 prison facilities report that has framed three years of discussions on the states correctional needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The contract with Phoenix-based Arrington Watkins is just the latest deduction from a $62 million pool of money spent down to less than a fifth of its original size to prepare for a now-paused Lincoln County prison project. On Thursday, representatives with the Gov. Larry Rhoden administration acknowledged that taxpayers will be out most of that money unless lawmakers vote to revive the controversial project or a scaled-down version of it during a July special legislative session. About $50 million of the money is already gone. It was spent to secure land, design a campus, and secure a stake in the electrical, water and sewer infrastructure that wouldve been necessary to house and care for 1,500 inmates. The states under contract to spend millions more, but has paused that work. The state could claw back some of that $50 million, but Lt. Gov. Tony Venhuizen said the administration knew there could be significant costs to shifting course. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were doing what we can to reduce that, but it could be a considerable amount, and thats something we have to consider as we move forward, Venhuzen said after a meeting of the Project Prison Reset work group at the South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance. The state based its earlier decision to pursue an $825 million facility largely on the recommendations of a 2022 report from the Omaha-based DLR Group. Lawmakers rejected that idea in February. That report outlined the states correctional system deficiencies and recommended a host of potential solutions. The lawmakers most skeptical of the Lincoln County prison proposal repeatedly cited that reports lower mens prison price estimate, as well as its smaller-scale alternative prison construction options. The forthcoming Arrington Watkins report will ask the same sorts of questions. Ryan Brunner, the Rhoden adviser who serves as his point person on prison issues, said Thursday that eight members of the work group reviewed the contract before the state signed it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state is also preparing to release a request for information, Brunner said, seeking interest from any landowners who might be willing to sell their property to the state for prison projects. Work performed based on old report After the meeting, Venhuizen said the work group would use the Arrington Watkins report and any interest gleaned from the land-seeking notice to decide where to go next on prison construction. The DLR suggested a 1,300-bed mens prison, but affixed a far smaller price tag than the one lawmakers were presented with last November. Under the direction of the Department of Corrections, a 2022 summer study group endorsed a 1,500-bed facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Initial 2023 design contracts for that facility, partially redacted versions of which were given to South Dakota Searchlight by the DOC last month, put the top price at $450 million roughly in line with DLR Groups estimates. An amended contract soon pushed that figure higher. A contract amendment in April of 2024 put the not to exceed price at $740 million. State Rep. Karla Lems, R-Canton, reacts during a Project Prison Reset meeting on April 3, 2025, at the Military Heritage Alliance in Sioux Falls. (John Hult/South Dakota Searchlight) That figure was not offered during a legislative Appropriations Committee the following month, though. At that meeting, and another legislative meeting later that summer, lawmakers were told that the guaranteed maximum price would come in November. By the time that $825 million number arrived, the state had already spent millions to design the facility, drill test bores for a possible geothermal energy system, and to scan for cultural artifacts and wetlands. The state continued to sign contracts for the Lincoln County prison project into early 2025. The $825 million guaranteed price expired in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers whod hoped to move forward with the project warned their compatriots that the price would only grow through inaction. Michelle Jensen, one of the Lincoln County landowners who sued the state over the prison plan, offered a different perspective in her public testimony to the work group on Thursday. Jensen noted that a final decision from the state Supreme Court in that lawsuit could come after the July special session. The remedy for financial losses in Lincoln County, Jensen said, should have been for the state to stop spending money out there if you know its a thing that might not happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jensen also suggested that the state could sell the land. The DOC transferred about $8 million to the Office of School and Public Lands to obtain the title to the 320 Lincoln County acres upon which it had hoped to build its prison. The land had passed into the ownership of the state Office of School and Public Lands years ago when the owners died without heirs or a will. On a roadside viewing of the property Wednesday afternoon, Brunner told the work group that the state only needed half the property for the prison, and that the other half was reserved for possible future use. Federal funding could still benefit state, but only near Lennox Brunner sounded a hopeful note Thursday on a $10.5 million contract with the city of Lennox for a sewer line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lines not in the ground yet, even though Lennox has collected the money. Members of the Project Prison Reset workgroup listen to testimony on April 3, 2025, at the Military Heritage Alliance in Sioux Falls. (John Hult/South Dakota Searchlight) Funding for all but $500,000 of that contract came from the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The ARPA dollars had to be obligated to a water or sewer infrastructure project by Dec. 31, 2024. Had the prison project gone forward, Lennox wouldve been in line for $50,000 monthly payments from the state. Those monthly payments would amount to less than $30 per person for each of the people inmates and staff whod have used the prisons toilets, sinks and showers. Its not that much different than your household sewer bill, Brunner reasoned on Thursday. And so we dont start paying that until we actually start running sewage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the work group picks a site within 10 miles of Lennox in any direction for any other prison project, Brunner said, the state will still get something from that investment. If youre within 10 miles of Lennox, its possible we could run that line to it, Brunner said. The state also entered into agreements with Southeastern Electric Cooperative and South Lincoln Rural Water to pay for portions of upgrades planned by the respective utility providers. The state has paid for some of its stake in those projects. Brunner said the state could still pull out of a substation project, since the station has yet to be placed and could move to another location. EDITORS NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect a correction. An earlier version of the story misstated the month of an upcoming special legislative session. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE GENESEO, N.Y. (WROC) It has been 50 years since the fall of Saigon, which was the last major event of the Vietnam War. A First Lieutenant pilot in the Vietnamese Air Force made a heroic escape 50 years ago to the day, by flying from a collapsing south Vietnam to safety in Singapore and eventually, America. The historic C-130 aircraft now rests on display in Geneseo. This is my home. This is the one who saved my family and saved me, said Khiem Pham, as he looked up at the plane, at the National Warplane Museum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On April 3, 1975, Pham commandeered the C-130 and pulled more than 50 of his relatives aboard, along with more than 300 refugees. His goal to get all passengers out of harms way during the height of the war. I never have Plan B on my mind at all. At that time, security at the airport was so tight. But somehow, I went through and the aircraft backed out, took off, and nobody knew what was going on. Then, I ran to the cockpit. The minute I put the seatbelt on, the aircraft was airborne and I raised the gear. From there on, we headed to the ocean and flew at sea level to Singapore, said Pham. Quick thinking, and a lot of faith, enabled Pham to bring his loved ones and the refugees to safety in Singapore. He was immediately jailed there for three weeks, before making the journey to the U.S. in search of a new life for his family. Khiem Pham is pictured with his daughter, Phi-Van Cherry, aboard the C-130 aircraft in 1973. My parents carried hope. They had hope to live this beautiful life in America, and they carried hard work. Because of this 50 years ago, we now live this American dream in the land of opportunity. Im so grateful that today, the National Warplane Museum is honoring my dad and his heroic escape, said Bekah Yoxthimer, Phams daughter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crews at the Livingston County museum have been working to restore the aircraft to the way it was 50 years ago. Theyve painted its exterior and will work to refurnish the interior in the future. The Pham family is now largely based in Dayton and Cincinnati, Ohio. All immediate relatives traveled to New York Thursday to celebrate the milestone anniversary. Hes definitely a hero. Hes very courageous. Hes also funny. Hes a great grandfather. Definitely someone I try to live up to, said Calvin Pham, the oldest grandchild in the family. People thought I might be nervous [that day]. Actually, Ill tell you, no. I chose before my duties, regular flying, like Id done every day when I went into service, said Pham. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The aircraft will be installed at the National Warplane Museum in Geneseo indefinitely. It will be open to the public to view during normal business hours. More information can be found on the museums website here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. A fifth person has been formally charged in the fatal Feb. 10 shooting of 15-year-old Makai Kenith Neal. During a brief preliminary hearing Friday, Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Jeffrey A. Wagner found police and prosecutors had enough probable cause to charge Keyshawn Barnett, 24 of Milwaukee, with harboring/aiding a felony in Makai's slaying. More: 12-year-old accused of fatally shooting mother fights to be tried in juvenile court Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charge includes an enhancement of habitual criminality repeater. That could subject Barnett to harsher punishment, if he is convicted. Barnett pleaded not guilty to the charge through his attorney Dennis P. Coffey, of Milwaukee. The legal development brings to five the number of people who have been arrested and charged with felonies in connection with killing Makai, whose body was discovered dead inside a burning car in the backyard of a home on the 2900 block of North 26th Street. An autopsy determined Makai had been shot eight times, with the cause of death determined to be multiple gunshots, meaning he was dead prior to the car being set on fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Trial to be held for suspect charged with killing Milwaukee woman near Bar 107 Also charged are Charles Roby, 21; DJ Chandler, 24; Shatianna Williams, 22; and Shatise Williams, 40. Last week, Roby pleaded not guilty to first-degree reckless homicide, mutilating a corpse, arson of property other than a building, possession of a firearm by a felon and sell-possess-use-transport of a machine gun, habitual criminal repeater. Milwaukee detectives determined the fire started inside the vehicle because there was little damage to the ground underneath it. Detectives also concluded after discovering a red gasoline container and gasoline on the front drivers seat that fire was "incendiary," or intentionally set. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jail records show Barnett remained in custody Friday. Cash bond for his release was set at $5,000. He is expected to return to court for a scheduling conference on April 22. More: '(He) just kept killing': Milwaukee man gets 95 years in 2021 shooting spree that left 3 dead Makai's death was one of 25 homicides that have been reported in Milwaukee since the start of 2025. Last year at this time, the city had also seen 25 homicides. In 2024, 132 homicides were reported in the city. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: 5th suspect is charged in death of Milwaukee teen found in burning car Six people were arrested after an investigation into illegal drug activity in Richmond, according to the Richmond Police Department. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] According to police, they responded to 77 calls for service over the past year, with 32 of those calls happening in 2025 alone. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents expressed concerns about suspicious activity, illegal drug use and theft to law enforcement, which prompted officers to begin monitoring and secure a search warrant for the home. Police executed the search warrant on April 2 and arrested six people. Brittney Harmon was charged with maintaining a common nuisance and possession of a syringe, both are felonies. Jeremy Jacob, Lori Martin and Lisa Presley were charged with maintaining a common nuisance, a felony. Levi Johnson and Garly Lady were charged with visiting a common nuisance, a misdemeanor. Indiana law defines a common nuisance as a property that is used for illegal activities. Officers released the elderly homeowner into the care of his family. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] HONOLULU (KHON2) Hawaii is a place like no other. We are known for our stunning landscapes; so, its easy to see why people are drawn to the islands. But behind the beauty, theres more to consider when it comes to life in Hawaii This is especially true when it comes to taxes, government services and our overall quality of life. A new report has examined what kind of return on investment (ROI) Hawaiis taxpayers have. Whether youre a local or planning to move here, understanding Hawaiis strengths and challenges can help you navigate life on these islands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres a closer look at the top things to know about living in Hawaii. 1. Hawaiis taxes and taxpayer ROI (Return on Investment) When it comes to taxes, Hawaii doesnt rank very well compared to other states. In fact, we have been ranked 49th for the amount of taxes people pay per capita (meaning how much each person contributes in taxes). This puts Hawaii near the bottom, with only New Mexico ranking worse. Even though residents pay a lot in taxes, they dont get the best return in terms of the services they receive from the government. However, its not just about how much money is collected. Hawaii does have some benefits that come from taxes, especially in areas like water quality. 2. Hawaiis government services Government services in Hawaii, like education, healthcare, and infrastructure, have room for improvement. According to the report, Hawaii is ranked 24th in overall government services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While our state does a decent job in some areas, it falls short in others. Education : Hawaii has somewhat decent public schools, but its school system is not the best in the country. We rank 49th in the U.S. This means were one of the states with the weakest school systems. Education is a big area that needs improvement since its the key to helping keiki grow up to be successful. Hospital systems : Hawaii also faces challenges in its hospital systems. The report ranked us 48th. This means that healthcare services can be difficult to access for residents. and this is a big issue for families and individuals needing medical attention. Infrastructure: Hawaii has a lot of work to do on its roads and bridges, too. The report ranked us at 50th for roads and bridges. Hawaii has some of the worst infrastructure in the country, according to the report. That means its harder for people to get around safely. 3. Crime and Safety Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Hawaii ranks well when it comes to safety. We have one of the lowest violent crime rates in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fact, we rank 5th, with Maine, New Hampshire, and Connecticut as the top states for safety. This makes Hawaii a good place to live if youre concerned about crime. 4. Poverty and quality of life Hawaii is not doing great when it comes to poverty. The reported ranked us 48th for the percentage of residents living in poverty. This means a lot of people in Hawaii struggle to make ends meet. It also means we have a serious issue since poverty can affect many aspects of life, from education to healthcare to the quality of housing. On the other hand, Hawaiis natural beauty and culture make it a great place to visit, even if its economic challenges are tough for many residents. 5. Water quality: Hawaiis best feature One thing Hawaii really excels in is our water quality. We rank number one in the nation for water quality; so, residents enjoy some of the cleanest and safest drinking water in the U.S. While this is something that residents and visitors can be proud of, the report did not mention the long-term consequences of the Red Hill leak. 6. Political affiliation Hawaii is a Democratic-leaning state, which means there is a focus on human and civil rights and our policies affect taxes, government spending and other services. Being a Democratic state means that Hawaii tends to focus on social programs and services that supports residents, though we struggle to match the quality seen in some other states. What does this mean for Hawaii? Hawaii is a beautiful state with a lot of charm, but we face some challenges in taxes, public services and economic conditions. The good news is that it has excellent water quality and a very safe environment with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, areas like education, healthcare and infrastructure need a great deal more attention, according to the report. Hawaiis residents pay some of the highest taxes in the U.S.., but we dont always get the best return in terms of services. The report identified that we struggle with high poverty rates and weaknesses in its school and hospital systems. You can click here to read the full report. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 In short, Hawaii offers a great lifestyle in many ways but needs to work on improving its government services and reducing poverty for a better future for all its residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Tens of thousands of ballots cast in North Carolinas Supreme Court race last year could be thrown out after a recent ruling says the ballots might have been counted illegally. Republican candidate for the states highest court, Jefferson Griffin, challenged the more than 65,000 ballots that could decide last years election. On Friday, the Republican-majority Court of Appeals, of which Griffin is a member but who recused himself from the decision, ruled 2-1 in favor of Griffin. While the winner of the race hasnt been made official, Democratic incumbent Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs received more than 734 more votes than Griffin in a recount. The gutting of thousands of ballots could now swing the election in Griffins favor. A billboard criticizing Republican state Supreme Court candidate Jefferson Griffin is seen on Capital Boulevard in Raleigh, North Carolina, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. Allen G. Breed via The Associated Press In its ruling, the Court of Appeals said the 65,000 voters will need to provide proof of their identity or have their ballot thrown out. Voters will have just 15 days to prove their eligibility if the ruling stands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The North Carolina State Board of Elections previously rejected Griffins initial challenge. Board chairman Alan Hirsch called Griffins efforts anathema to the democratic system, WRAL reported. The ruling will likely be appealed. Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party Anderson Clayton said Friday that Democrats WILL fight this decision. But make no mistake, the statewide court of appeals bench has cowered to political pressure and corruption from their own party, Clayton posted on social media. The NCGOP and RNC are trying to steal an election and test the waters for future election denial. Related... BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) Seven candidates are officially in the race to become Buffalos next mayor with a potential eighth candidate on the way. Thursday was the deadline for mayoral hopefuls to submit their petitions to get their names on the primary ballot. Six Democratic Party candidates Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon, New York State Senator Sean Ryan (the partys endorsed nominee), Buffalo Common Council Member Rasheed Wyatt, former Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield, community advocate Anthony Tyson Thompson, and Greater Jefferson Avenue Business Association member Michael Gainer all turned in at least 2,000 petition signatures from registered voters by 5 p.m. Another candidate, community organizer James Payne, has mailed his petition to the Board of Elections, the campaign told WIVB News 4. The Board of Elections must receive the petition by Monday in order for Payne to go on the ballot. On the Republican side, James Gardner, a former law clerk for Erie County Court Judge Kenneth Case and the partys endorsed nominee also received enough signatures to qualify for the ballot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Challenges will be accepted for a few weeks, which means candidates could potentially get kicked off the ballot. News 4 spoke with Scanlon inside the boards Eagle Street office, and the acting mayor said the petition process was both humbling and motivating. Its an indication that our campaign is being supported by people, residents of the City of Buffalo live here, work here, raise their families here and are supportive of our campaign, Scanlon said. Scanlon said he turned in more than 7,500 signatures. Wyatt, who has represented the citys University District on the Buffalo Common Council since 2014, delivered nearly 4,000 signatures. Whitfield, the former Buffalo Fire Commissioner, filed around 4 p.m. and his campaign hosted an end-of-petitioning celebration Thursday night. He told News 4 that he was able to obtain around 4,300 signatures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didnt have a big budget, but we had a lot of heart, Whitfield said. And we have people on our side, as you can see from the attendance here today. So were very thankful for the community. Were doing this for the community. The primary elections will take place in late June, and the general election is slated for Nov. 4. Latest Local News Dave Greber is an award-winning anchor and reporter who has been part of the News 4 team since 2015. See more of his work here. *** Mark Ludwiczak joined the News 4 team in 2024. He is a veteran journalist with two decades of experience in Buffalo. You can follow him online at @marklud12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. Flash New vehicles are on display at a Ford dealership in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, on April 3, 2025. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Thursday Canada will be responding by matching the U.S. approach with 25 percent tariffs on all vehicles imported from the United States that are not compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua) Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Thursday Canada will be responding by matching the U.S. approach with 25 percent tariffs on all vehicles imported from the United States that are not compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). The prime minister said his government will also impose the tariff on non-Canadian content of any CUSMA-compliant vehicles from the U.S., adding that Mexico won't be impacted. Carney said that the global economy "is fundamentally different today than it was yesterday." "Yesterday's actions by the U.S. administration, while not specifically targeting Canada, will rupture the global economy and adversely impact global economic growth," he said. "Our old relationship of steadily deepening integration with the United States is over. The 80-year period when the United States embraced the mantle of global economic leadership is over," said Carney. Carney also said his government has gone to the World Trade Organization to argue the tariffs violate international trade law. Canada was spared from the 10 percent baseline tariffs, but a 25 per cent U.S. tariff on imported autos went into effect at midnight. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The next Azerbaijan-EU roundtable on "Development of Offshore Wind Energy" was held in parallel with the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku, Trend reports. The roundtable, attended by Azerbaijans Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov, EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jrgensen, and Giles Dickson, CEO of the WindEurope Association, was focused on offshore wind energy development in the Caspian Sea. Leading companies from Europes wind industry and financial institutions participated in the event. During the meeting, it was brought to light that five areas in Azerbaijans slice of the Caspian Sea have been earmarked for offshore wind energy projects. Measurements and monitoring activities are already underway. In the initial phase, wind energy production from these areas is expected to reach four gigawatts, with plans to export it to Europe through the "Caspian-Black Sea-Europe" green energy corridor. It was also noted that other planned interconnectors would be directed toward European countries. The discussion emphasized the significant potential for cooperation between Azerbaijan and the EU in the offshore wind energy sector. The implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024 between Azerbaijans State Agency for Renewable Energy Sources and WindEurope was reviewed, and the next steps were discussed. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) An Abilene father has been sentenced to serve 20 years in prison for the death of his 22-month-old child, who was found emaciated with bruises under his eyes. DAiress Fuller received his 20-year prison sentence Thursday at the conclusion of a trial in Taylor County where he was found guilty of Injury to a Child in connection to the death of the 22-month-old, who was found unresponsive at a home on the 5300 block of Taos Drive in May 2023. The childs mother, Teliea Thomas, was found guilty of Injury to a Child and sentenced to life in prison in March 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents reveal the child, who was pronounced dead at the scene of the crime, appeared emaciated and had bruises under his eyes. During the investigation into his death, police learned the child was born premature in 2018, and shortly after his birth, CPS removed him and two siblings from Thomas and placed them in the care of a family member. Abilene mom found guilty in death of 22-month-old emaciated child The newly appointed caretaker noticed the child had trouble swallowing, so she took him to the doctor, who diagnosed him with Subglottic Stenosis and gave him a feeding tube. At this time, the caretaker allowed Thomas to move in with her and taught her how to care for the child, along with a team of nurses who helped provide him with 24-hour care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the feeding tube and regular therapy, the child gained weight, but one day, the documents state the family member came home and saw Thomas had left to go back to Abilene with her three kids. Thomas took the child to the doctor twice after returning to Abilene, where he weighed a documented 18.6 pounds in both October and November 2019. The child was not taken to any further doctors appointments until January, when Thomas took him to West Texas Rehab to start a feeding therapy plan. She then, according to the documents, declined all followup visits due to concerns over COVID-19 and eventually asked for him to be discharged from therapy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An autopsy of the child reveals his cause of death was homicide due to malnutrition. He weighed 15.8 pounds when he was found dead. Samples taken from his brain were sent to the lab for further testing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In recent article, interested parties raised concerns about a rapidly growing choice school (Virtual academy blurs homeschooling line, March 25). The only concerns appear to be from those with obvious vested interest in the schools failure. Meanwhile, thousands of Wisconsin parents, and more every year, are flocking to Academy of Excellence because of what it has to offer. Milwaukee led the way in school choice when it instituted the nations first voucher program in 1990. For the first time, low income parents were given control of their childrens education in a way that had previously been reserved for the wealthy. The program has since expanded several times despite heavy resistance from the public school bureaucracy that are so transparently concerned, not with the education and welfare of Wisconsins children, but with their own continued relevance and existence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Letters: Wisconsin Republicans keep trotting out Milwaukee vote trope as built-in excuse School choice empowers parents to choose alternatives that would otherwise be unable to compete against the public option that, while free to parents, is rewarded through its failure with more money and more administrative largess. Once a leader, Wisconsin is being left behind in the national school choice conversation. The Academy of Excellences virtual option is the best development weve had in years. I hope it sees lots of competition soon. Thomas Patrowsky, Oak Creek Opinion: Musk, billionaires took over Wisconsin Supreme Court race. The joke is on us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opinion: Wake surfing done responsibly is fine. Don't restrict Wisconsin boaters like me. Tips for getting your letter to the editor published Here are some tips to get your views shared with your friends, family, neighbors and across our state: Please include your name, street address and daytime phone. Generally, we limit letters to 200 words. Cite sources of where you found information or the article that prompted your letter. Be civil and constructive, especially when criticizing. Avoid ad hominem attacks, take issue with a position, not a person. We cannot acknowledge receipt of submissions. We don't publish poetry, anonymous or open letters. Each writer is limited to one published letter every two months. All letters are subject to editing. Write: Letters to the editor, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 330 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 500, Milwaukee, WI, 53202. Fax: (414)-223-5444. E-mail: jsedit@jrn.com or submit using the form that can be found on the on the bottom of this page. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: School choice empowers parents. Bureaucrats hate that. | Letters Key Takeaways There are four recently announced recalls you should be aware of right now. Issues range from foreign matter contamination and undeclared allergens to manufacturing errors affecting product safety. Check your fridge and pantry for these items, and dispose or return them based on FDA instructions. Food and household appliances have made headlines after being recalled due to foreign matter contamination, undeclared allergens, and product safety concerns due to manufacturing errors. The affected products were sold across the United States. Check your fridge and pantry for the following items: liquid eggs, hot honey dressing, chocolate bars, and bottled blenders. Liquid Eggs On March 28, 2025, the United States Food and Drug Administration's Food Safety and Inspection Service announced a recall of 212,268 pounds of liquid eggs that may contain a cleaning solution with sodium hypochlorite. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FSIS classified the recall as a Class III threat, which is "a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequence." If you have the liquid egg product in your home, throw it away immediately. If you consumed this product and are concerned about potential adverse health effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Recalled Product Information Product Description: 32-oz. (2-lb.) carton containing "egg beaters ORIGINAL LIQUID EGG SUBSTITUTE" and USE BY AUG 10 2025. 32-OZ. (2-lb.) carton containing "egg beaters CAGE-FREE ORIGINAL LIQUID EGG SUBSTITUTE" and USE BY AUG 09 2025. 32-oz. (2-lb.) carton containing egg beaters CAGE-FREE ORIGINAL FROZEN EGG SUBSTITUTE and egg beaters NO ENJAULADAS ORIGINAL SUSTITUTO DE HUEVO CONGELADO and USE BY MAR 07 2026. 32-oz. (2-lb.) carton containing Bob Evans Bettern Eggs Made with Real Egg Whites and USE BY AUG 10 2025. Establishment Number: G1804 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Affected States: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, and Texas Trader Joe's Hot Honey Mustard Dressing On March 29, 2025, Trader Joe's announced a recall of its Hot Honey Mustard Dressing due to a labeling error. The product was recalled due to undeclared allergens, including peanuts, sesame, soy, and wheat. Consumption of the product could be harmful to people with allergies to those foods. If you have the affected Hot Honey Mustard Dressing, Trader Joe's says to discard it or return it to your local store for a full refund. Recalled Product Information Product Description: Trader Joe's Hot Honey Mustard Dressing Size: 12 oz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guaranteed Fresh Date: May 27, 2025 Manufacturing Code: SKU 80152 Affected States: Arkansas, Colorado, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia Tony's Chocolate Dark Almond Sea Salt Bar and Everything Bar On April 1, Tony's Chocolonely Inc. announced a recall of seven lots of its' Dark Almond Sea Salt Bar and Everything Bar because the products may contain small stones. Per the FDA, the recall was initiated following 12 reports of consumers finding small stones in the product. All complaints occurred outside of the United States, and no injuries have been reported to date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have purchased one of the recalled products, the FDA says to throw the product away or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Recalled Product Information Product Description: Tony's Chocolonely Everything Bar, 6.35 ounces, Lot Code: 4327, Best Before: November 22, 2025, UPC: 850011828564 Tony's Chocolonely Everything Bar, 6.35 ounces, Lot Code: 4330, Best Before: November 25, 2025, UPC: 850011828564 Tony's Chocolonely Everything Bar, 6.35 ounces, Lot Code: 4331, Best Before: November 26, 2025, UPC: 850011828564 Tony's Chocolonely Everything Bar, 6.35 ounces, Lot Code: M4331, Best Before: November 26, 2025, UPC: 850032676441 Tony's Chocolonely Dark Almond Sea Salt Bar, 6.35 ounces, Lot Code: 163094, Best Before: April 2, 2026, UPC: 858010005641 Tony's Chocolonely Dark Almond Sea Salt Bar, 6.35 ounces, Lot Code: 162634, Best Before: February 28, 2026, UPC: 858010005641 Tony's Chocolonely Dark Almond Sea Salt Bar, 6.35 ounces, Lot Code: M162634, Best Before: February 28, 2026, UPC: 850011828908 Affected states: Nationwide Blender Bottles On April 3, 2025, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a recall of about 199,000 blenders sold at Target. The recall affects the Vivitar Blender Bottles, which have a clear plastic middle and a white plastic base and top. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Per CPSC, the recalled blender bottles were sold at Target stores nationwide and online from December 2024 through January 2025 for about $5. The product is being recalled because "the blender's blades can continue to operate when the bottle is not attached to the blender, posing a laceration hazard," the announcement states. If you have the product in your possession, CPSC says to immediately stop using it and to contact Sakar for instructions on how to receive a full refund for the blender. Recalled Product Information Product Description: Vivitar Blender Bottle Item: ES15-BB-TA, MID#5220824 Affected States: Nationwide Read the original article on Martha Stewart An Acworth man was sentenced to 20 years in prison after being convicted of aggravated battery and family violence. According to the Cherokee County District Attorneys Office, Jonathon Bailey Panter, 26, was charged in February 2024 after he violently assaulted a woman multiple times. The DAs office said Panter and his victim lived at the same residence and after she sought medical treatment at a hospital, the Cherokee County Sheriffs Office became aware of the multiple assaults. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] She had bruises and abrasions on her legs, midsection, arms, neck and face, the DAs office said in a statement. She also had petechial hemorrhaging in her eye, which is a sign of strangulation. She told CSO deputies that Panter beat her half to death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In mid-March, Panter was found guilty of the assault and family violence charges after prosecutors showed a jury nearly 90 pieces of evidence detailing the victims injuries. TRENDING STORIES: On Wednesday, Panter was sentenced. Prosecutors recommended a 60-year sentence, with the first 35 years to be served in prison, but the judge sentenced him to 20 years. He was also banned from returning to Cherokee County and ordered to not contact the victim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The evidence we presented at the sentencing hearing showed that this defendant has demonstrated no remorse for his actions and continues to shift the blame onto others for the crimes he committed. His refusal to take responsibility underscores the necessity of a substantial prison sentence, Assistant District Attorney Macelyne A. Williams, of the Domestic Violence Unit, who prosecuted this case on behalf of the State, said in a statement. Due to being a repeat offender, the DAs office said Panter would not be eligible for parole. This defendant violently attacked an especially vulnerable woman who felt she had no one to turn to, and nowhere else to go, District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway said. This case is a powerful reminder of the devastating impact domestic violence has on victims and communities. We will continue to pursue justice for victims and work to make sure offenders are removed from our streets. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Foreign adversaries including Russia and China are targeting government workers who have been laid off amid the Trump administration's attempt to downsize to recruit as spies, according to new intelligence. "New intelligence indicates agents from China, Russia, and other countries have set their sights on recently fired probationary workers, or those with security clearances, hoping to obtain valuable information about U.S. critical infrastructure or national security interests," according to intelligence distributed by the U.S. Coast Guard to its workforce. MORE: Active-duty Army soldier charged with selling classified info to China Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These foreign intelligence officers actively search LinkedIn, TikTok, Reddit, and Chinese social media site Xiaohongshu -- known as RedNote -- for potential sources," it added. "In at least one instance, a foreign agent was instructed to create a company profile on LinkedIn, post a job listing, and actively track federal employees who indicated they were 'open for work.'" The Coast Guard did not develop the intelligence but rather distributed it as a warning to Coast Guard officials around the world. PHOTO: In this Feb. 14, 2025, file photo, demonstrators rally in support of federal workers outside of the Department of Health and Human Services, in Washington, D.C. (Mark Schiefelbein/AP, FILE) "Posting about your frustration, status as a recently fired employee, or any other OPSEC sensitive information could make you a target," the notice said. "Our adversaries have successfully preyed on upset and disgruntled government workers during past furloughs." Military members can be attractive targets, according to the intelligence, because of the information they may have access to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Foreign adversaries, private sector, state governments may swoop in to recruit fired federal workers, experts say The notice comes as two active-duty soldiers were recently charged with conspiring to sell classified material to China. The Coast Guard said a telltale sign of foreign agents attempting to recruit former government officials is something that is too good to be true, noting that it probably is. "Your contact might overly praise or focus on your skills/experience, especially if your government affiliation is known," it said in the notice, adding that a sense for urgency might be an indicator as well. US adversaries attempting to recruit laid-off government workers as spies: Intelligence originally appeared on abcnews.go.com YouTube quietly scrubbed the phrase gender identity and expression from its public-facing hate speech policy earlier this year, prompting concern from LGBTQ + advocates who warn the change removes clarity around protections for transgender and nonbinary users. According to the company, theres no change in policy. However, the altered language occurred between January 29 and February 6, according to archived versions of the policy reviewed by The Advocate via the Internet Archives Wayback Machine. On January 29, the platforms hate speech policy explicitly barred content that promotes violence or hatred based on gender identity and expression. By February 6, the next time a snapshot of the page was stored in the archive, that language was no longer listed. Instead, the revised version grouped Sex, Gender, or Sexual Orientation as protected categories, omitting any reference to gender identity. A YouTube spokesperson told journalist Taylor Lorenzs Substack newsletter User Mag, which first reported the change , that the update was part of routine copy edits and claimed enforcement of hate speech policies remains unchanged. However, the platform has not explained why it chose to remove an explicit reference to gender identity, a term that is foundational to many users lived experiences and protections under civil rights law in several jurisdictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement YouTube reiterated its position in a statement to The Advocate. Our hate speech policies havent changed, a YouTube spokesperson said. They also said that as we told the reporter, the User Mag story mischaracterized the copy edits made to YouTubes Help Center. The change comes as the Trump administration moves aggressively to erase federal recognition of transgender and nonbinary people. Just hours after returning to office on January 20, President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring that the U.S. government would only recognize two sexes male and female determined at birth. The order requires federal agencies to remove references to gender identity from policies, identification documents, healthcare programs, and nondiscrimination protections. Advocacy groups and LGBTQ+ creators say the revision is more than cosmetic its a dangerous rollback at a time when transgender people face escalating attacks both online and offline. The larger implications of YouTubes actions should concern everyone, a spokesperson for GLAAD told The Advocate. When a company, or political leaders, decide that certain groups of people are to be seen as less than others it too often results in real-world harm. YouTube and other platforms should be protecting LGBTQ creators and users during a time when right-wing extremists and others are seeking to harm them. Samantha Lux attends the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards 2025 Defend Trans Rights written in makeup across her back Samantha Lux attends the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards at The Beverly Hilton on March 27, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Longtime trans YouTube creator Samantha Lux told User Mag shed noticed a rise in hateful rhetoric on the platform. The right-wing creators have gotten a lot more brave about how they talk about trans issues, Lux said. If you say that youre protecting against gender, its more like you cant discriminate against somebody for being a woman. But gender identity really zones in on the trans aspect of it. The update comes amid broader cultural and political efforts to erase references to gender identity. Just weeks ago, Iowa became the first state to eliminate gender identity from its civil rights protections. At the federal level, the Trump administration has moved to eliminate mentions of gender identity in agency communications. Project 2025, a sweeping conservative policy roadmap, calls for deleting the terms sexual orientation and gender identity from government and public discourse. In GLAADs 2024 Social Media Safety Index , YouTube scored 58 out of 100. The platform was credited for launching a pronoun display option for creators but criticized for falling short in key areas. YouTube is the only major platform evaluated as lacking a clear policy protecting users including public figures from targeted misgendering and deadnaming. The company also provides little transparency on addressing wrongful demonetization, filtering, and removing LGBTQ content from ad services. YouTube quietly removing gender identity and expression from its list of protected groups is a major radical shift away from best practices in the field of trust and safety and content moderation, a GLAAD spokesperson told User Mag. Like Metas recent dangerous rollbacks of hate speech protections for transgender and nonbinary people, the removal of these specific words appears to be a responsive alignment with the anti-LGBTQ agenda of Project 2025. An Afghan woman and her husband have won the right to stay in the UK after a judge found she would not be adequately treated for her back pain under Taliban rule. Lailuma Bahadri, 63, was unable to walk or stand owing to back problems and required assistance washing and dressing. She claimed asylum with her husband Mian Rahim Shah Bahadri, 64, but this was rejected by the Home Office and a judge who said her symptoms would improve with time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple appealed the decision and claimed that under Taliban rule, a female stranger is not allowed to provide care facilities at somebodys house when a man is living there to whom they are not related. For cultural reasons, Mrs Bahadri would not accept personal care from a male stranger, the court was told. Now, their appeal has been successfully upheld after an upper tier tribunal judge found the healthcare collapse and deepening humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan means Mrs Bahadri would not receive suitable care in the country. The case, disclosed in court papers, is the latest example exposed by The Telegraph where failed asylum seekers or convicted foreign criminals have attempted to halt their deportations, often by claiming breaches of their human rights. There are a record 41,987 outstanding immigration appeals, largely on human rights grounds, which threaten to hamper Labours efforts to fast-track removal of illegal migrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple claimed asylum as adult dependent relatives of their son, a British citizen, but this was rejected by the Home Office in 2023. The couple appealed the decision, taking it to the first-tier tribunal, but this was dismissed. Deterioration in care Mr and Mrs Bahadri further appealed the claim, claiming the judge had given inadequate consideration to the evidence regarding the deterioration in the availability of suitable care and treatment in Afghanistan, after the Taliban took over in August 2021. The appeal, which was heard by Upper Tribunal Judge Ruddick and Deputy Upper Tribunal Judge Murray, was told Mrs Bahadri suffered longstanding health issues including depression, type two diabetes, hypertension and lower back pain. Her doctor told the panel Mrs Bahadri has mobility problems as a result of her lower back pain and she could not stand for long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mother was said to need help with washing and dressing because of her back pain, care which has been provided by her husband. Mr Bahadri also has health conditions including stable angina, hypertension, and type two diabetes and had previously been advised not to lift heavy weights. The lower appeal judge ruled the couple would have access to medical care in Kabul and her husband was able to meet her needs. However, lawyers representing the couple argued that due to the effects of the Taliban, Mrs Bahadris medication was not available which would cause a further decline in her health. The couple said they were helpless and were also financially reliant on their sponsor, their son. The judge upheld their appeal and allowed them to remain in the UK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tribunal said there was evidence Mrs Bahadris condition had progressively worsened so much that she faced severe limitations on her ability to perform even the most basic daily activities. Upholding their asylum claim, judge Murray said: As stated above, the medical evidence shows that [Mrs Bahadri] requires a high level of personal care and that there is a shortage of medication to manage her multiple health issues. [Mr Bahadri] is unable, on the uncontested medical evidence, to provide the required level of care. We take account of the background evidence on the healthcare collapse and deepening humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. We also take account of the unchallenged evidence of [their] son that a female stranger is not allowed to enter someones house to provide care facilities when a man is living there to whom they are not related. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We accept on the witness evidence that there are no family members in Afghanistan and that the [Mrs Bahadri] would not accept personal care by a male stranger for cultural reasons (even if it were legally or socially permissible, which the background evidence suggests it would not be). The strict cultural mores under Taliban control are well documented and supported by evidence. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. After a hearing Friday, the Social Development Commission's future as a community action agency remains uncertain, but the anti-poverty agency still has the support of community members and former employees. The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families held a public meeting Friday afternoon to determine if it should end SDC's designation as a community action agency, which makes it eligible for millions in federal funds. Jeff Pertl, the state department secretary, will make a final decision in the coming weeks after reviewing additional documents from SDC and comments from the public, he told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said it was clear that SDC was supported by employees and community members and that programming needs to return as soon as possible. "What I care about is turning back on services," Pertl said. Dessie Levy, left, talks with Jeff Pertl, Secretary of the Department of Children and Families, right, following a public hearing over federal funding for the Social Development Commission on Friday, April 4, 2025 at the Milwaukee State Office Building. All 10 community members at the hearing advocated for SDC to keep its status as a community action agency. Antonio Butts, the executive director of Walnut Way Conservation Corp, one of SDC's community partners, said SDC losing this designation would "destabilize the entire safety net of the community." He urged the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families to give the community more time to voice its support for SDC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The public just hasn't had this opportunity to speak up," Butts said. "There are thousands of people who will want to know about this today." Former employees shared stories of how the agency's many programs benefited the community. Lasonda Buck, a former housing division manager at SDC, said her department disbursed over $90 million in rental assistance, taught people how to budget and helped homeowners keep up with their mortgages. "Because of a mistake, you would take that away from a community?" Buck said. "Who else would run it better than SDC? I don't believe there's an agency that could do it." SDC closed its doors and halted services last April. It opened again last December, but the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families says SDC hasn't resumed the services it is responsible for providing as a community action agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, the department said SDC is out of compliance with state and federal law and its contract. The department also alleges SDC has continually given state officials inaccurate information about its financial health. SDC is the only community action agency in Milwaukee County. This designation makes the agency eligible for the federal Community Services Block Grant, which provides funding to hundreds of local agencies around the country to reduce poverty. William Sulton, SDC's attorney, was skeptical about the state agency's ability to find another organization to fill SDC's shoes. "SDC is truly the city and county's best chance at dealing with poverty," Sulton said. Former employees, community partners continue to support SDC Nearly a year after the anti-poverty agency shut its doors, Thomas Hines, a former manager for youth and family services at SDC, says he still gets calls from parents. He says some of the children who received mental health and substance abuse services from SDC are now incarcerated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have to somehow salvage this organization," Hines said. SDC board members, including Jorge Franco, Dessie Levy and Walter Lanier, defended SDC at the hearing. Levy, who was introduced as SDC's newest commissioner during an emergency board meeting Thursday night, grew up using SDC's services, she said at the hearing. Her family used SDC's free tax preparation services, and the agency once filled a hole in her family's roof, she said. "SDC's services are extremely valuable," said Levy. "This agency deserves to be forgiven." Lanier also stood by SDC on Friday. He declared there had been "no scandal at SDC," just "mismanagement." He added that SDC's now seven-member board is "a sufficient size" and echoed Levy's calls for forgiveness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "One of the challenges, particularly for Black organizations in Milwaukee and across the country, is where the majority of organizations are given second and third chances, even where there has been scandal," Lanier said. "I'm encouraging you to allow us to move forward." Walter Lanier speaks, right, talks with Jeff Pertl, Secretary of the Department of Children, left, following a public hearing regarding the fate of the Social Development Commission's status as a community action agency. Angela Peterson/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Franco, who is the chief executive of both SDC and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin, shared a statement from the chamber's board of directors encouraging the state agency and SDC to work out their issues. "We urge DCF to do what is right in immediately re-establishing antipoverty services to Milwaukee County through SDC and its infrastructure while the details of SDC's recent woes are worked out with you," the chamber's letter read. "We also urge SDC to do whatever is necessary to immediately establish these federal mandated antipoverty services now." Sulton, SDC's attorney, has said that losing the grant won't be the end of SDC, which had a $30.5 million operating budget last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The public can still share comments with the state Department of Children and Families by emailing dcf.csbg@wisconsin.gov. More of SDC's financial troubles come to light The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families raised more questions about SDC's financial standing in a letter on Wednesday. According to the letter, SDC has not provided sufficient documentation to support expenses that it is asking the state department to reimburse. The department says it came across more than $3.8 million in "outstanding payments," according to a note in SDC's March 2024 bank reconciliation. "It is unclear to DCF as to what portion, if any, was reimbursed previously by DCF," the letter says. "DCF is concerned about this unresolved issue which could result in SDC needing to repay DCF for previously reimbursed amounts that were never received by the intended recipients." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter confirms that SDC has provided "various financial files" to DCF since December 2024, including employee timesheet reports, monthly bank statements and vendor invoices, according to the April 2 letter. However, the state department says it still hasn't been able to "entirely identify" records that substantiate expenses SDC reported in contracts with the department. This isn't the only trouble SDC is facing. The agency is also at risk of losing its main office at 1730 North Ave., a warehouse at 1810 North Ave. and several parking lots to foreclosure due to unpaid mortgages. SD Properties Inc., the real estate arm of SDC, is facing a $2.98 million foreclosure lawsuit. Forward Community Investments is suing SD Properties for $2.3 million for a 2020 construction mortgage and about $679,000 for a 2023 mortgage, according to the complaint. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Ex-employees advocate for Milwaukee's Social Development Commission BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) have allocated $2 million in funding for the Caspian Green Energy Corridor project, which involves Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said at a press conference held today in Baku as part of the South Gas Corridor and Green Energy Advisory Council meetings, Trend reports. We are working on a project to develop a green electricity transmission line between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. As you know, the heads of state of the three countries signed an intergovernmental agreement during COP29. Today, to support the financing of this project, both the ADB and AIIB have allocated $2 million in funds. We, the three countries and the two banks, have also signed a document on this decision, Shahbazov said. To note, the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Energy of Uzbekistan, the Asian Development Bank, and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank was held within the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council 11th Ministerial Meeting and the Green Energy Advisory Council 3rd Ministerial Meeting in Baku. The representatives of ADB and AIIB joined the document signed by the energy ministers of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. This memorandum envisages the cooperation between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan in order to support the first stage of the feasibility study of the Caspian Green Energy Corridor project. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel An aging tanker banned from docking in India is transferring its cargo of Russian oil at sea, Reuters reported on April 4, citing sources and ship tracking data. The 20-year-old Andaman Skies was last week barred from entering the Indian port of Vadinar due to safety concerns over its seaworthiness. It is now transferring around 100,000 metric tonnes of oil sold by Russia's Lukoil to two other ships, the Sao Tome and the Ozanno. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the sanctions imposed against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has been seeking new markets for its fossil fuels. India has become a key buyer of Russian oil, second only to China. Multiple tankers carrying Russian crude have been unable to land in Indian ports in recent months in connection to sanctions. According to Bloomberg, dozens of sanctioned vessels are now idling in numbers not seen since 2017. The U.S. has been tightening its restrictions against Russian oil since last October, sanctioning around 40 oil tankers involved in the trade. Russia's largest shipping company, Sovcomflot, came under fresh sanctions in February for violating the $60-per-barrel price cap. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Towards the end of 2023, Group of Seven (G7) countries vowed to step up enforcement of the price cap, first implemented in December 2022, after reports emerged that Russia has continued to ship out much of its crude above $60 per barrel by using a "ghost fleet" of mostly uninsured tankers. Read also: Ukraines navy responds to reports US was angry at sinking of Russias Moskva Black Sea flagship Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. (NewsNation) The superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy is proposing cutting civilian faculty positions to get more uniformed military members in those roles, according to a published report. The Colorado Springs Gazette, citing internal communications at the Air Force Academy, reported that Superintendent Tony Bauernfeind has floated the idea of having military members make up 80% of the academys faculty. To do so, civilian positions would be decreased from 37% to 20%, the report said. That would involve cutting around 105 civilian spots from the current academy faculty, which includes 491 members, the Gazette reported. There are currently 308 uniformed faculty (62.7%) and 183 civilian faculty members at the Colorado Springs service academy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fed chair: Tariffs could hike inflation, but more details needed An internal piece of communication reviewed by the newspaper said that reducing the Air Force Academys faculty to under 400 members would force the academy to cut some majors and cease many opportunities for cadets. Some cadets have criticized on a social media platform that allows them to post anonymously, the report said. The proposal would require approval from the U.S. Air Force. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called for more uniformed military members to teach at U.S. service academies during his confirmation hearings. We need more uniformed members going back into West Point, the Air Force Academy and the Naval Academy, as a tour-to-teach, with their wisdom of what they have learned in uniform, instead of just more civilian professors that came from the same left-wing, woke universities that they left, and then try to push that into service academies, Hegseth said during the hearings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trumps nominee to lead the U.S. Air Force, Troy Meink, has not yet been confirmed. The Gazette report stated that uniformed military members make up 74% of the faculty at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and about 50% of the faculty at the U.S. Naval Academy. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. North Korea is dramatically expanding its drone development programme, new satellite images have revealed. Images taken above the Panghyon airbase show the construction of large hangars and new designs of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) visible on runways and taxiways. The airbase, around 90 miles north of Pyongyang, has become the motherland for large UAVs, a new report by the Washington-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) quoted a source as saying. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Intelligence reports indicate that the nearby 6 January Factory is manufacturing the Norths most advanced new UAV, the Saetybol-class aircraft, which bear an uncanny resemblance to the American RQ-4 Global Hawk drone. First unveiled at the Pyongyang weapons exhibition in 2023, the aircraft whose name translates as morning star has a wingspan of more than 110 feet and a distinctive bulbous nose and V-shaped tail consistent with the Global Hawk. A variant of the Saetbyol-4 class unmanned aerial vehicle seen on the runway of Panghyon airbase - CSIS/Beyond Parallel/Planet 2025 The CSIS report says it is not possible to determine how many drones North Korea intends to build. However, it warns: If North Korea successfully develops and deploys a Saetbyol-4 class strategic reconnaissance UAV along the demilitarised zone with South Korea and within its air defence identification zone, it will significantly increase the scope and timeliness of the nations situational awareness in and around the Korean Peninsula. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The satellite images, captured on March 28, also show the construction of seven 130ft-wide hangars at the base that dwarf fighter aircraft on a nearby runway. Other pictures show the rapid development of the site, as well as the Panghyon aircraft factory, over the past five months. The report also contains high-altitude photographs of a number of UAVs on taxiways or preparing to take off from a runway. In March, the South Korean National Intelligence Service reported that North Korean troops stationed in Russia were undergoing training in modern drone warfare, including the use of strike and reconnaissance UAV operations. The CSIS report said that while the impact of the training and the level of cooperation was not clear, it did suggest North Korea was making a concerted effort to enhance its overall UAV capabilities, likely incorporating Russian battlefield experience. UAV support area at the Panghyon airbase from a satellite image showing a Saetbyol-9 class vehicle - CSIS/Beyond Parallel/Planet 2025 Analysis of the airfield images comes after Kim Jong-un, the North Korean leader, oversaw tests of suicide attack drones equipped with AI technology at the base, state media reported on March 27. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim was pictured instructing scientists and engineers at the Unmanned Aeronautical Technology Complex, and monitored drills involving both reconnaissance and attack drones. Images released by the Korea Central News Agency showed a quadcopter dropping a bomb on a target as well as suicide drones striking military vehicles. One of the targets looks like a mock-up of a US Stryker combat vehicle, while another resembles a South Korean mobile missile system. The KCNA quoted Kim as saying: Our special means developed with up-to-date technology would play a big role in monitoring the potential threats and collecting vital intelligence. He demanded that the development of more capable drones should be top priority. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. By Lisa Barrington SEOUL (Reuters) - Pilots need to be better able to voice safety concerns freely without fear of punishment to reduce the chances of aviation accidents, the head of the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA) said. "Learning from accidents is not good enough. We need to learn from the successful operations that happened every day," IFALPA President Amornvaj Mansumitchai said in an interview on Thursday. This should be done through non-punitive reporting systems, robust data collection, and unbiased accident investigations, Mansumitchai said on the sidelines of the federation's annual conference in Seoul. Aviation safety has improved markedly over decades based on open sharing of information, with investigations intended to draw lessons rather than assign blame. IFALPA, which represents around 148,000 pilots in 70 countries, has for several years said many aviation incidents go unreported because those involved are fearful of management or regulatory authority penalties. It is campaigning for what it calls a positive safety culture in aviation that adopts non-punitive safety reporting and data collection. "Without trust, we never get the facts. Nobody wants to say out loud how close they were," Mansumitchai said. Recent deadly crashes in Kazakhstan, South Korea and the United States and the non-fatal flip of a crash-landed jet in Canada have thrust aviation safety into the spotlight. Furthermore, aviation bodies have raised the alarm over the number of delayed or non-existent final reports into accidents globally, identifying judicial interference or a lack of political willingness to disclose certain narratives as key factors. Guidelines from the U.N.'s International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) say states should not use safety data or information for disciplinary, civil, administrative or criminal proceedings. (Reporting by Lisa Barrington; Editing by Jamie Freed) Rep. Leigh Hulsey, R-Helena, arranges papers during a debate over a bill sponsored by Hulsey limiting cell phone access in public schools in the Alabama House of Representatives on April 3, 2025 at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery, Alabama. The House passed the ban 79-15 on Thursday.(Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector) The Alabama House of Representatives Thursday approved a bell-to-bell cell phone ban for students in public schools. HB 166, sponsored by Rep. Leigh Hulsey, R-Helena, passed the chamber 79-15. It requires local school boards to adopt a policy to store student cell phones during class hours. Hulsey said during a floor debate on Thursday that the devices could be stored in a device like a Yondr Pouch or a shoe organizer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The majority of the schools already participating in this are storing the cell phones in the classroom in various ways, Hulsey said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Yondr Pouches are an expensive option compared to a $10 plastic over-the-door shoe organizer. Pike Road Junior High School Principal Christy Wright showed the Senate Education Policy Committee how the school implements a ban in February. The $30 Yondr Pouches at Pike Road were purchased with a grant. According to the bill, cell phones can be stored in a locker, car or other storage device so long as the device is not on the students person. According to the Pew Research Center, 72% of U.S. high school teachers say that cellphone distraction is a major issue in their classrooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic representatives were concerned about how a student would access their phones in an emergency. Rep. Barbara Drummond, D-Mobile, said that with school shootings a constant threat, a child should be able to contact their parents. According to the K-12 School Shooting Database, there were 332 school shootings in 2024. There have been 52 in 2025 so far. We as a body need to protect our kids since we will not pass a bill to keep guns away from our school children, Drummond said. Drummond has sponsored bills over the last several years that would effectively require parents to safely store firearms at home. The bills would also have allowed parents to be charged with misdemeanors if a child brought an unsecured weapon to school. But the legislation has not moved. A House committee killed Drummonds latest version of the bill in February. Rep. Napoleon Bracy, D-Prichard, brought up another potential event that could develop at school where a child may need to contact their parents. He said a student could need a change of clothes in the middle of the day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not a situation where its life or death, its not like somebody is coming in for a school shooting, he said. I just think its overreaching. According to the bill, a student can have access to their phones under three exceptions: if they study under an Individualized Education Plan that allows it; for teacher-approved instruction and for medical purposes. Hulsey claimed that there is data that shows that cell phone bans cause improved test scores, retained information and students mental health. Rep. Mary Moore, D-Birmingham, said she would like to see that data. Ive just not seen the preponderance of students playing games while the teacher is trying to teach, the room being disrupted and out of order, she said. I would just like to see that data at some point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alabama Department of Mental Health Commissioner Kimberly Boswell said in February the mental health of students would improve under the ban. Rep. Terri Collins, R-Decatur, echoed that and supported the legislation on the House floor Thursday. Its going to make a difference, Collins said. The House approved an amendment that removed punishments on schools that do not comply. Hulsey said she wished that was still in the bill but would bring a bill in a few years after seeing compliance. There is a survey required in the legislation to monitor compliance. I havent passed a bill yet that Ive loved every single thing about it, Hulsey said. All of it takes compromise to move the needle a little bit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Pebblin Warren, D-Tuskegee, said that enforcement could be difficult without sanctions. We need to put some teeth into this bill, Warren said. If we dont were going to be in the same position next year as we are this year. The legislation moves to the Senate. Sen. Donnie Chesteen, R-Geneva, has filed a companion bill in that chamber. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE CULLMAN, Ala. (WHNT) A bill in the Alabama Senate is taking a look at what type of medical care licensed midwives can provide to newborns after they assist with birth. Since it was introduced, the bill has undergone some changes that midwives in the state say raise concerns. Animals now up for adoption after owners charged with 38 counts of animal cruelty Laura Reeder, a licensed midwife who works for Farmhouse Midwifery in Cullman, said part of her job is offering women the freedom to choose how they want to give birth and making the process as safe as possible for the mother and baby. She said the language added to an Alabama Senate bill is going to make that job difficult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Women want that continuity of care all the way through their birth, Reeder said. They want the same provider that is doing their prenatal to be there when they deliver their baby and to help them through the postpartum as well. Reeder offers a service that is increasingly being sought out by expectant mothers in Alabama. Midwives are able to go to peoples homes in rural communities, Reeder said. We have a lot of counties where women are having to drive over an hour to get access to their pediatrician and thats just really hard when youve just had a baby. Decatur Police looking for missing woman Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, only 16 of Alabamas 55 rural counties have hospitals that offer obstetrical services, according to the Alabama Department of Public Health. Reeder, like other licensed midwives, has only been able to legally practice in Alabama for the past few years. Midwifery was legalized in the state in 2017. The Alabama State Board of Midwifery was established in 2018, and licenses were first handed out in 2019. Senate Bill 87, written by Sen. Arthur Orr, was originally designed to update language from the 2017 legislation. It initially allowed midwives more freedom to provide newborn screenings and other care needed shortly after birth. You cant determine when a babys going to come, Reeder said. Sometimes they come on weekends or holidays and, for that newborn, especially the heel prick, needs to be done within 24 to 48 hours, up to 72. Sometimes moms cant get an appointment with their doctors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Changes were made to SB 87 during a meeting of the Alabama Senate Health Committee. Sen. Larry Stutts introduced a sub-bill that would only allow midwives to administer a heel lance, which is a blood sample taken shortly after birth used to screen babies for disorders. The bill limits other types of care. It prohibits us from any other care of the newborn unless an emergency, said Reeder. After a babys born, were doing newborn exams head to toe. Were weighing the baby, measuring the baby and we send all of that information to the pediatrician after the birth. Its a real problem if were prohibited from any newborn care at all. The modified bill would restrict midwives from providing care that is not specifically granted by this legislation, including newborn screenings. Midwives are instead required to refer newborns to a doctor, and then, parents need to bring the baby to a pediatrician within 48 hours to receive a newborn screening. Reeder said the hours after birth are critical for assessing a baby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When we are caring for mom throughout pregnancy, were caring for that mom and that baby both throughout the pregnancy, Reeder said. So, were not trying to be pediatricians. Were not trying diagnose or treat the babies. Were just trying to be able to do the assessments so that we can give the parents information on when to seek help for their babies. Newborn screenings assess for conditions that are life-threatening or could impact a babys development, like congenital heart defects, early hearing loss and metabolic and genetic disorders. Reeder said that newborn screenings are meant to make sure babies are healthy, and she has concerns about how placing limitations on the care midwives can provide will impact the safety of babies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Elizabeth Peratrovich, second from left, is one of the leading female civil rights leaders in Alaska history. On Thursday, Gov. Mike Dunleavy signed a bill declaring March to be Women's History Month in the state. Former Territorial Gov. Ernest Gruening signs the Alaska Equal Rights Act of 1945 in the photo. (Photo courtesy of Alaska State Library, ASL-PCA-274-1-2) Alaska will recognize March as Womens History Month, under a new law signed by Gov. Mike Dunleavy on Thursday. Gov. Mike Dunleavy signs Senate Bill 43, declaring March to Womens History Month in Alaska, on April 3, 2025, in his office in the Alaska State Capitol. (Photo provided by the Office of the Governor) This legislation encourages schools, communities, and organizations to honor the contributions of women who have shaped our state and nation, Dunleavy said in a statement on social media. He shared a photo of signing Senate Bill 43 into law, pictured by himself at his desk in his Juneau office, with the Alaska and U.S. flags on either side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bill sponsor Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson, D-Anchorage, celebrated the occasion. Womens history in Alaska is not only about past achievements but is also a way to honor the current and future contributions of women in Alaska, Gray-Jackson said in a written statement Thursday. This bill is aimed to encourage our Alaskan communities to honor the contributions of women who have helped paved the way throughout our states rich history. Gray-Jackson thanked legislators for supporting the legislation, including Rep. Carolyn Hall, D-Achorage, who carried the bill in the House. Together, we will continue to inspire the future generations of Alaskan women, she said. This year, the Alaska Legislature has a historic number of women representing districts across the state, with the first majority of women serving in the Alaska House of Representatives also recognized in a letter of support for the bill by former U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola, the first woman to represent Alaska in the U.S. House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would be fitting for this legislation to be passed by our 34th Legislature, where we have a record number of women serving our state, she wrote, acknowledging several trailblazing female leaders of Alaska, including Alaskas first female U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski. Murkowski and Peltola served alongside each other in the Alaska House from 1999 to 2002. By recognizing Womens History Month, we make it clear to women, especially young women and girls that they should not be afraid to be the bold leaders Alaska needs to guide us into the future, Peltola said. We also honor the trailblazers that came before us, displayed remarkable leadership, and now serve as role models for our generation and the next. Next year will be the first March that the law will be in effect. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Alaska State Capitol is seen on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025, in front of snow-covered Mount Juneau. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon) The Alaska House of Representatives on Thursday approved a bill that seeks to solve a nearly $200 million state budget deficit, but legislators failed to approve spending from a state savings account, something needed to fix the deficit. House Bill 56, which passed on a 21-19 vote, is a fast-track supplemental budget bill designed to address the current fiscal year, which ends June 30. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because of lower-than-expected oil prices and higher-than-expected costs, there isnt enough money in the budget to pay for spending through the end of the year. Thats caused lawmakers to turn to the Constitutional Budget Reserve, the states principal savings account. The vote were taking today is just about paying for what weve already authorized, said Rep. Andy Josephson, D-Anchorage and co-chair of the House Finance Committee, before the vote. These items weve already authorized are for these immediate-term priorities like disaster relief, fire protection and ongoing lawsuits that were brought to us by the governor. Spending from the reserve requires three-quarters of the 40-person House and three-quarters of the 20-person Senate, plus the assent of the governor. But on Thursday, only 21 members of the House voted in favor of the clause that unlocks the budget reserve. All of the no votes came from members of the Houses Republican minority caucus. All of the yes votes came from the Houses multipartisan majority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the bill fails to pass the Legislature, Gov. Mike Dunleavy would be forced to make unilateral cuts to the state budget, impounding funding for various programs. For the moment, thats a distant prospect. Despite the failed budget reserve vote, HB 56 will advance to the Senate 21 votes is the minimum needed to advance a bill from the House to the Senate but the failed vote means that the House will need to revote on the budget reserve clause once the Senate acts. Were still early in the process, said House Minority Leader Mia Costello, R-Anchorage. Historically, members of the House minority have withheld support for the CBR vote until after the Senate approves the bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By waiting, the minority preserves its negotiating leverage, Costello said. That makes it less likely that minority-opposed provisions will be added to the bill. In addition, its possible that the fast-track budget bill will later be combined with the budget bill for the next fiscal year, which starts July 1. So-called turducken budget bills have previously included one budget reserve vote for both fiscal years. Rep. Kevin McCabe, R-Big Lake and a member of the minority caucus, said before Thursdays vote that the fast-track bill lacks minority input and that as a result, he could not support it. As currently written, the bill would use savings to pay for more than $111 million in previously unforeseen spending, including millions for wildfire response, Medicaid and disaster aid. Those additions were requested by the governor to meet state needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One late-adopted amendment, approved Thursday by the House, restored a funding request for village public safety officers, who serve a police and lifesaving role in rural Alaska communities. On top of the additional spending, revenue is down about $80 million from what had been expected last year. The Senate Finance Committee has already scheduled hearings for HB 56, indicating that it may move quickly toward a vote of the full Senate. Even if the fast-track supplemental budget is adopted in time, lawmakers still must resolve an expected deficit in the 2026 fiscal year, which starts July 1. The House is expected to begin debate on a budget bill for that fiscal year next week. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX ALBERTVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) A Marshall County jury found an Albertville man guilty of sexual torture and domestic violence on Friday. According to District Attorney Jennifer Bray, after a four-day trial 40-year-old Patrick Alexis was found guilty of sexual torture and second-degree domestic violence. Trial pushed back for woman charged in brutal DeKalb County cliff murder Through several witnesses, the district attorneys office showed evidence that on June 5, 2022, Alexis wounded a womans face and wounded several parts of her leg by beating her with a shattered glass beer bottle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the district attorney said the evidence proved that just weeks later on June 23, 2022, Alexis physically abused the woman again by beating her in the face and head and pulling a gun out before sexually torturing her with a plantain. Alexis then videoed a small portion of the sexual violence he put the woman through that morning. The woman had a rape kit completed, and Alexis DNA was found on swabs from that rape kit. Further, there were multiple witnesses, photographs and medical records detailing her injuries in this case. The victim of this case unfortunately found herself caught up in the never-ending cycle of domestic violence. Im so thankful she was brave enough to get out of that situation and stay out. Because of that, she was able to testify this week in court and face her attacker as the strong, brave, and resilient woman we know her to be. I hope her story can inspire other victims of domestic violence. I also want to take the time to thank the jury in this case. The evidence in this case was difficult to hear and watch, but they did so with the seriousness a case like this requires. It is not lost on us that these cases will often linger with jurors well after their duty to the state is complete, and we ask that you pray for them as they process all the horrific things they witnessed this week. District Attorney Bray Judge Christopher Abel presided over the trial and ordered Alexis to remain in the Marshall County Jail until his sentencing. He is facing 10 years to life for sexual torture and is facing two to 20 years on the second-degree domestic violence conviction. The State intends to seek a life sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. SAN JOSE, Calif. (KRON) Eight suspected members of a ruthless Greenfield-based gang were arrested Wednesday in connection to a random fatal shooting in San Jose, police announced Friday. On January 11, the San Jose Police Department responded to a report of a shooting on Loma Verde Drive and found a 27-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound. He was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. Homicide detectives identified eight men as suspects in the killing: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andre Novoa, 18, of Greenfield David Gomez-Moreno, 19, of Soledad Damien Perea, 19, of Sacramento Diego Narez, 19, of King City Anthony Martinez, 19, of Soledad Dario Botello, 19, of Elverta Eduardo Camacho-Hernandez, 20, of Greenfield Adrian Pineda-Juarez, 20, of Greenfield San Jose Police Chief Paul Joseph said at a news conference Friday, On the morning of January 11, eight members of a ruthless gang left their homes in two different counties and traveled to San Jose. They were armed with firearms and motivated to find and kill rival gang members. They targeted a specific San Jose neighborhood with their evil intent. Their victim, however, would be random and not personally known to the suspects. Adrian Pineda-Juarez, David Gomez-Moreno, and Andre Novoa are seen in mugshots released by the San Jose Police Department. Damien Perea, Diego Narez, and Anthony Martinez are seen in mugshots released by the San Jose Police Department. Investigators combed for evidence by executing search warrants in 14 homes, 20 vehicles, and seven prison cells. A key break in the case came through video surveillance and automated license plate reader cameras which began to piece together that the suspects were part of a violent criminal street gang from the City of Greenfield, Joseph said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 1 arrested in San Jose Locust Street homicide All eight suspected gang members were arrested for murder Wednesday in a multi-agency operation. The agencies included: San Jose PD, Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Monterey County District Attorneys Office, King City PD, Greenfield PD, Salinas PD, Watsonville PD, Monterey County Sheriffs Office, Sacramento County Sheriffs Office, Sacramento PD and Monterey Peninsula Special Response Unit. The San Jose Police Department said several firearms were seized during the one-day arrest operation. (SJPD) On the day of the arrests, Greenfield police assured local residents on social media that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was not involved. The same Greenfield street gang in south Monterey County was responsible last year for the shooting of a six-year-old child at a baptism, a double homicide near Soledad, and a quadruple homicide with 11 shooting victims in King City, investigators said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four King City homicide victims were gunned down at a birthday part in the front yard of a house. Near Soledad, two cousins were shot and killed on Los Coches Road in a case of mistaken identity, deputies said. The cousins had no ties to gangs, and no criminal background. The motive for the random San Jose killing remains under investigation, police said. Eduardo Camacho-Hernandez and Dario Botello are seen in mugshots released by the San Jose Police Department. San Joses a great place to visit, but if you come here to commit violence and you take a life, we will come visit you, Joseph said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. NORWALK, Conn. (WTNH) A New York man was arrested after an alleged December 2024 robbery at the SoNo Collection, police say. 32-year-old Jesus Rodriguez, of Bronx, New York was allegedly involved in a robbery of Bloomingdales on Dec. 28, 2024 along with two other people. Police were able to identify Rodriguez and one other person they believed to be involved. Police say the group stole ten handbags valued over $2,500 before Rodriguez allegedly sprayed a security officer with pepper spray. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two men arrested in connection to Greenwich car thefts Jesus Rodriguez, 32 Evelyn Marreno, an alleged partner of Rodriguez was arrested in New Jersey. Police say both Marreno and Rodriguez had multiple warrants for their arrest across multiple states for similar crimes. Rodriguez was arrested by Yonkers, New York police and was extradited to Connecticut on Thursday for charges related to this incident. Marreno is in custody in Hudson County, New Jersey, awaiting extradition for charges in New York and Norwalk. He was charged with first-degree robbery, organized retail theft, second-degree conspiracy to commit robbery, conspiracy to commit retail theft and third-degree larceny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His bond is set at $75,000. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. KAKAAKO, Hawaii (KHON2) A popular vegan cafe focused on the needs of eco-conscious locals and visitors has a new menu at their newest location. Alo Cafe provides delicious, cruelty-free and health-conscious meals for everyone. Wake Up 2Days Chris Latronic went live from their new SALT Kakaako location with a preview. How long do Hawaii residents have to react to a tsunami? Co-owner Mieko Fuchie and Managing Chef Jessee Kimble discussed their latest offerings and proved why Alo Cafe is a must for everyone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its our way of sharing passion for a good life and we believe that a good life comes from good food and good energy, Fuchie explained. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news Managing Chef Kimble displayed their four acai bowls and various baked goods, some of which include their housemade peanut butter. With the Easter holiday coming up, Alo Cafe said they are offering a special deal of 25% off for families with keiki under 12 years old. Check out more news from around Hawaii Guests can visit Alo Cafes SALT Kakaako location from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information can also be found on their website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. As soon as this coming Wednesday, ULA will launch 27 Amazon Kuiper satellites into low-earth orbit. Dr. Don Platt, an Associate Professor of Space Systems at Florida Tech, told us, This is definitely some competition to the Starlink network of SpaceX communication satellites. Amazon says the satellites flying on this mission are an upgrade over the pair of prototype Kuiper satellites that launched from our Space Coast in October of 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the next few years, roughly 80 project Kuiper launches are planned on ULA, Arianespace, SpaceX, and Blue Origin rockets. Launch is currently scheduled for no earlier than (NET) 12 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, April 9. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. OVER THE LAST WEEK, amid government turmoil, massive new tariffs, a stock market free-fall beckoning a possible recession, and other major news, many Americans likely missed a story that was unfolding in the normally quiet forests of Lithuania. Four U.S. soldiers, including three seasoned and professional non-commissioned officers, tragically lost their lives when their M88 Hercules recovery vehicle was swallowed by a hidden sinkhole during a training mission. The remains of Staff Sgt. Jose Duenez Jr., Staff Sgt. Edvin F. Franco, PFC Dante D. Taitano, and Staff Sgt. Troy S. Knutson-Collins were recovered after an exhaustive eight-day operation that showcased not only the unwavering commitment of American forces to their fellow soldiers, but also the profound solidarity of our allies in Europe. As a former tanker who spent much of a long career in Europe, I know the training ground at the Pabrade Training Area. I used to command the 1st Armored Division, the unit to which the four fallen soldiers were attached for the exercises in Lithuania, and I know and admire the current commander, Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor. So my ears perked up when I first heard the report of missing soldiers. Having faced similar crises, I know the anxiety and urgency that faces any commander when soldiers go missing. The Army is always parsimonious with the details it gives to the media, so much of the story of the search and eventual recovery of those four soldiers remains and their vehicle hasnt been told. But the details of those eight days that Ive heard from soldiers involved in the operations is a testament to the seven Army values. The story also highlights the loyalty of our allies, which I came to know so well when commanding U.S. Army Europe. As the nature of our alliances changes, and many Americans seem to be questioning the value of having friends abroad at all, its a story worth hearing. You wont get coverage like this anywhere else. To support our mission and get members-only newsletters, podcasts, and live events, become a Bulwark+ member. THE INCIDENT BEGAN WITH A CALL for assistance passed between military units, something that happens all the time in the training environment. A Joint Light Tactical Vehiclea small Army truckhad become mired in mud at night during an artillery training event at Lithuanias Pabrade Training Area. The task to pull it out was given to a nearby cavalry unit that had an available M88 Hercules recovery vehicle. A crew of fourthree highly skilled cavalry mechanics plus one soldier from the artillery acting as a guideset out on the mission to find and fix the truck. These soldiers were not just expert mechanics, but their fellow soldiers all knew them as highly professional non-commissioned officers and devoted family men; they had seven children among them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their vehicle, the formidable M88 Hercules, was built for just this purpose. The soldiers knew the terrain well, as they had been training in the area for more than a month. Their route to the disabled truck led them along a firebreak in the forest. What they didnt know is that trail contained a deceptive sinkhole. Driving through the area at night, with headlights on, the crew likely saw what looked like a large puddle, something the M88 is designed to traverse with ease. But it appears as their vehicle drove through the water it immediately sank. Within minutes, the disappearance of the M88 initiated a massive search operation. The first soldier to arrive at the bog saw vehicles tracks, but no sign of the Hercules or the soldiers. His gut told him to wade into the water. Attached to a rope and holding a long pole, he waded in and poked around, but didnt detect any sign of the vehicle. Returning to the site a few hours later, he noticed a satchel floating on the water and detected the scent of JP8 jet fuel, the type used by most armored vehicles. He quickly reported what hed found, and his unit requested assistance from a local Lithuanian dive team who were immediately mobilized by the Lithuanian military. Arriving at the site with their equipment, six Lithuanian divers commenced a grueling search in zero-visibility conditions. Their courage and skill were evident as they continued to navigate the treacherous environment, even as the seals on their diving masks deteriorated from the effects of the fuel spill. Feeling through the mud and murk underwater, they eventually felt what they believed to be M88s boom. When the Lithuanian government was notified of the situation, President Gitanas Nauseda and Minister of Defense Dovile Sakaliene spared no effort in sending help. Civilian and military engineers swiftly constructed a 300-meter pipeline to drain the site, and the engineers deployed heavy machinery which began operating immediately. The Lithuanian operators went without sleep over the eight-day search, catching naps in the cabs of their equipment or slumped against trees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Polish forces soon joined the recovery efforts, and the Polish Defense Minister Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz authorized the deployment of 55 engineers and recovery experts, along with 13 specialized vehicles, including WZT-3 tracked recovery vehicles, akin to the Hercules. The Poles expertise in understanding the terrainjust like that found across the border in their countrysignificantly enhanced the recovery operations. Estonia dispatched military working dogswhat the military calls human remains detection dogs, trained to detect the odors emitted from decomposing bodies even in the deep waterto locate the missing soldiers. All these countries worked tirelessly together as a team, embodying the spirit of allied cooperation. After the search had been on for 48 hours, more experts were called in. The Navy sent dive teams from Rota, Spain, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sent experts from its North Atlantic Division, who, led by Brig. Gen. John Lloyd, had recently led the Baltimore bridge recovery and helped recover the aircraft and bodies after the collision at Reagan National Airport. U.S. Navy divers and their Lithuanian special operations colleagues eventually located the vehicle an estimated twenty feet below the surface, buried under layers of mud and still sinking. Using fire hoses underwater to clear sediment from around the submerged vehicle, they finally found and secured the lifting points, the first step in extracting the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even the expert, highly trained divers, commented that the sink hole was unlike any environment they had ever experienced, and at one point, when a diver returned to the surface, he admitted: That was terrifying. With every step they took underwater, their bodies became encased in mud, which they had to blast away with a fire hose so they could move again. Clearing the mud from the vehicle after it was raised from the swamp, the team discovered three soldiers within. But the fourth soldier was still missing. The on-site team initiated several calls with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency in Hawaii, and that organization provided additional advice on how to continue the search for the final missing soldier. A team in Hawaii started to deploy to Lithuania to help while the search intensified for the missing fourth soldier, employing sonar, a drone with ground-penetrating radar, and the keen senses of the Estonian cadaver dogs. After 180 relentless hours, the final soldiers remains were found. Share THE SOLIDARITY EXTENDED TO THE FALLEN U.S. soldiers extended beyond the recovery efforts. During the search, Vilniuss central cathedral organized a Mass to pray for the missing soldiers. More than 1,000 Lithuanians attended and the service was broadcast nationwide, a poignant expression of sympathy and respect from an ally. Gen. Chris Cavoli, Supreme Allied Commander Europe, was among those who attended. President Nausedas recorded an address to the families of the fallen and the active participation of Minister Sakaliene in the memorial underscored the depth of Lithuanias commitment and friendship. After the last soldier was found, the Lithuanian government planned a procession for the soldiers departure on Thursday, with schools closing early and thousands lining the streets of Vilnius. I watched soldiers and allies embody every one of our Army valuesloyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and especially personal courageunder the most challenging conditions, Maj. Gen. Taylor said in a press conference. They never stopped. They never let emotion cloud judgment. They never let go of their commitment to bring our soldiers home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the memorial, President Nauseda added: We saw four brave Americans give their lives while helping others and training in our country. Lithuania never saw them as visitors, but as brothers. We will always remember their sacrificeand the strength of the American people who have always supported our nation. On Thursday, in Vilnius, the four caskets began their journey back to the United States with a procession on Gediminas Avenue. The last formal procession on that street was in 1991, when Lithuania honored the 14 civilians killed during the Vilnius massacre, their revolt against the Soviets. The families of those four brave menespecially the seven children who will grow up with only memories and stories of their soldier fatherswill mourn and attend the memorial services at the post chapel at Ft. Stewart, Georgia. They will hear the final rifle salute and the wailing, lonely notes of taps. The grieving families will be surrounded by a close circle of military friends and families, who all serve and who all live in the shadow of risk, not just in war zones, but on training fields, convoys, and recovery missions. They all know service, and they all know sacrifice. This is a story of loss, but also of unity. Of values lived. Of friendship proven. Of a sacred promise kept by those wearing the cloth of our country: Serve others, and never leave a fallen comrade. This story didnt dominate headlines, but in the deepest mud, under the darkest skies, among our strongest allies, it revealed something deep and durable about Americans and our friends in another part of the world. Share A father and his two sons were fatally struck by an oncoming Amtrak train traveling through Pennsylvania as he attempted to save one of his children with the help of the other, officials said Friday. The Acela high-speed train was traveling from Boston to Richmond, Va. when the incident occurred on Thursday around 6:10 p.m. near Bristol Station, located between Philadelphia and Trenton, N.J. Just minutes prior, at around 5:58 p.m., local authorities received a call about a group of people on the tracks. Bristol Borough Police Chief Joseph Moors said officers were approaching the area when a train traveling southbound towards Philadelphia struck all three subjects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were identified by the Bucks County Coroners Office on Friday as 56-year-old Christopher Cramp and his two sons, 31-year-old David Cramp and 24-year-old Thomas Cramp. According to authorities, Christopher Cramp and his elder son were trying to prevent Thomas from taking his own life when they were hit. All three family members died from blunt force trauma, with both Christopher and Davids deaths ruled accidental. Thomas death, meanwhile, was classified as a suicide. Bucks County Commissioner Diane Ellis-Marseglia told reporters on Friday that Christopher Cramp was an adored member of our staff, who worked in social services with people who are homeless and dealing with mental illness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was empathetic and kind, Ellis-Marseglia said. He could really affect peoples lives. No injuries were reported among the trains 236 passengers and crew members. Following the incident, they were all shuttled to nearby stations on buses. The collision also effectively halted train traffic along the Northeast Corridor, the nations busiest train line, with service shuttered between Philly and New York for hours Thursday night. It resumed at restricted speeds around 10:45 p.m. The crash Thursday night marked the second fatal incident involving an Amtrak train in Bucks County in as many days. On Wednesday, a train struck and killed someone near the Cornwells Heights Station in Bensalem. By Cynthia Kim, Hyunjoo Jin and Josh Smith SEOUL (Reuters) - With a snap election looming, South Korea's rival parties jockeyed for position with vows to focus on the economy and livelihood, but the leaderless country remains hamstrung when it comes to confronting the biggest threat: Trump and tariffs. The country's Constitutional Court ousted impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday over his shock martial law attempt in December, triggering a new election within 60 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asia's fourth-largest economy and a staunch U.S. ally, South Korea has been governed for almost four months by a revolving pair of interim presidents who have struggled to orchestrate an effective response to U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs, which stand to hit the export-reliant country hard. "For the next two months, Seoul will not be able to properly respond to Trumps fast-paced decisions, let alone coordinate with Washington on key foreign policy challenges, which could impact South Koreas national security and economic security in significant ways," said Duyeon Kim, of the U.S.-based Center for a New American Security. In the wake of the court ruling, Lee Jae-myung, leader of the main opposition Democratic Party (DP) and presumptive frontrunner in the election, promised to "rebuild broken livelihoods, peace, economy, and democracy with the spirit of great unity." One DP official said Lee is expected to step down as party leader within days so he can run for president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "After that the party will focus on people's livelihoods," said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity since the issues were discussed within the party. Kweon Seong-dong, the floor leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), called Lee "dangerous" and cited the need for the conservative party to do its best to overcome economic headwinds. "Now, with the global tariff war taking place outside, our economy is in an emergency state, and the people's economy is in a serious situation," he said. Shoring up growth is a key concern for the government and any winning candidate will need to respond effectively to changes in U.S. tariff policy under Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, the U.S. said it would impose 25% reciprocal tariffs on South Korea as part of its new trade policy, which also includes other measures that will affect key sectors in the country from autos to chips. With many of its companies contributing to global supply chains, South Korea relies heavily on international commerce to drive its economic growth. The tariff shock came after South Korea's worst-ever forest fires in March, further damaging slumping private consumption that had been weakening in the political turmoil sparked by Yoon's brief imposition of martial law. RESPONSE AFTER ELECTION Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The finance ministry on March 30 proposed a supplementary budget of 10 trillion won ($6.97 billion) to help cope with the losses from the wildfires and to cushion the economy from the U.S. tariffs The amount was far less than the 30 trillion won proposed by Lee in February. Moon Chung-in, of Seoul's Yonsei University, predicted that during the campaign candidates from all parties will express support for the U.S. alliance and abstain from criticising Trump, but after the election will take more concrete steps to placate Trump, find alternate trade partners or impose other measures. Lee, who narrowly lost to Yoon in the 2022 presidential race, faces his own legal troubles, and some industry figures see the liberal firebrand as less business-friendly than Yoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has turned to some economic issues as a way to reach out to the business sector, including flexibility on working hour restrictions and reforming inheritance taxes. DP lawmaker Kim Tae-nyeon said the party would use the campaign to pursue an economic policy that appeals to all sides. "Yoon's impeachment deprived South Korea of the capability to respond to the Trump administration's ludicrous tariff policy and dealt a big blow to domestic demand," he said. Still, Lee is unpopular with a significant number of people and the conservatives could be competitive if they field a credible candidate, said Andrew Gilholm, director at the risk consultancy Control Risks Group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think a lot of this now depends on how the conservatives position themselves... how much can they distance themselves from Yoon," he said. In the short term, South Korea is likely to remain highly polarized, perhaps even more so than before, since Yoon's impeachment has divided the country. However, the official PPP position has been to accept the impeachment decision, Hankuk University professor Mason Richey said. "The DP also has a special responsibility to accept the impeachment verdict with magnanimity and not over-reach, but try to develop a unifying message," he said. Economic analysts generally welcomed the Constitutional Court's ruling as it settled uncertainty, and market reaction was restrained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The biggest takeaway from today is that Korea now has hope that it will be able to do something with an elected leader in two months," said Seo Eun-jong, BNP Paribas head of market research for Korea in Seoul. ($1 = 1,434.8500 won) (Reporting by Cynthia Kim, Hyunjoo Jin, and Josh Smith; Additional reporting by Ju-min Park and Seunggyu Lim; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan) ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, April 4. The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and discussed priority aspects of further cooperation,Trend reports, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The talks took place on the sidelines of the first "Central Asia European Union" summit. The leaders highlighted the high level of trust and mutual support in their bilateral relations, which are actively developing in key areas such as agriculture, electricity generation, oil and gas, and the chemical industry. Special attention was given to the development of transport and energy corridors, enhancing regional cooperation, and joint efforts to ensure sustainable development and stability in Central Asia. In conclusion, the leaders expressed confidence that the current summit would open new opportunities for expanding cooperation between the countries of the region and the European Union. Overall, Turkmenistan continues to occupy a prominent position among Uzbekistan's key trading partners, as evidenced by the substantial bilateral trade volume. The trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan reached $110 million from January through February 2025. By Ellen Zhang, Maria Martinez and Promit Mukherjee BEIJING/BERLIN/OTTAWA (Reuters) - U.S. trading partners have few good options in their trade war with President Donald Trump, other than to sue for peace. Hit by 10%-50% tariffs on their exports to the world's dominant economic superpower, most lack the firepower to hit back or the political will to slug it out, say government officials, economists and trade experts. This is why the vast majority of trading partners did not immediately retaliate and indicated a readiness to negotiate a face-saving compromise with Trump. Even among those that have taken counter measures, the door was left ajar to talks. From China, which on Friday slapped extra tariffs of 34% on all U.S. goods, to Canada, which has taken limited retaliation, nations are tipped to come to the negotiating table sooner or later, given U.S. consumption is so important globally -- two-thirds bigger than EU consumption, according to World Bank data. Other than talks, governments have limited options to protect their export industries and broader economies. These include spending on state aid or on broader economic stimulus -- Spain announced a 14 billion ($15.5 billion) aid package on Thursday -- or looking to greener trade pastures. German officials are eyeing up Mexico, Canada and India. But for a world already deep in state debt after years of pandemic-era stimulus spending, it will be tough for some to fund the subsidies and other financial aid required to stave off economic growth downgrades, profit warnings and layoffs. Economists expect Beijing to unleash more fiscal stimulus to support its economy, which sells goods worth more than $400 billion a year to the United States. It will also try to develop other export markets, according to Chinese policy advisers. "We need to strengthen our coordination with ASEAN, Japan, South Korea, EU and UK," said one Chinese adviser, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the issue's sensitivity. Trump's "Liberation Day" tariffs took the tax imposed on Chinese exports since his January inauguration to 54%. Even with China's economic armoury -- its financial might, domination of critical mineral and metal production for advanced industries and centrality to global supply chains -- a negotiated truce is ultimately expected, the trade adviser said. That could take a while, given the enmity between Washington and Beijing, though there is speculation that Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping could meet in the United States in June. Andy Miller - Griffin Media Andy Miller has joined Oklahoma-based multimedia company Griffin Media as vice president of digital content. Miller will oversee the storytelling and distribution of original content through multiple digital channels and platforms, station websites, apps, streaming apps, FAST (free ad-supported streaming TV) channels, and social media. Hell take over for Chuck Maulden as vice president of content for Griffin Media when Maulden retires later this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are excited to have Andy join the Griffin team. His vast experience and knowledge will serve him well as he leads our news content to even greater heights," said Wade Deaver, president of Griffin Media. Before joining Griffin Media, he worked as a news director in the central Illinois region and as a director of local content overseeing multiple stations owned and operated by Nexstar Broadcasting across the Midwest. "I have quickly fallen in love with Oklahoma. There is a vibrant energy in the air," said Miller. "Griffin Media is an integral part of creating this community, and I am honored to be a part of the team. I have been in the media for a long time and have traveled from market to market in my previous job as a traveling news manager. There is something special here; the culture and commitment to excellence for the community are remarkable, and I am eager to continue delivering engaging and impactful stories." SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Testimony in a Sioux City murder trial that began on Monday in Woodbury County District Court is now complete. Angela Bino, 60, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of her mother. The state rested its case against Bino on Wednesday. Binos defense did not call any witnesses. Sioux City murder suspect pleads not guilty to arson charge Judge Tod Deck will return a verdict at a later date. He heard testimony in the case after Bino waved her right to a jury trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Binos 33-year old daughter Jessica is also charged in the case and pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder. A judge heard her case in January, but no verdict has been rendered at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. ATHENS, Ala (WHNT) Dogs of different breeds and ages lined the crates of Limestone Veterinary Clinic Thursday. The influx of animals came after an Athens couple was arrested and charged with 38 counts of animal cruelty and neglect on Monday. Really, really bad: 16 cats rescued from abandoned home in Guntersville Its surprising to find someone thats cruel to animals like that, said Larry Carwhile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Athens Police said they searched the house on Lindsay Lane for signs of a commercial dog breeding operation after receiving a call about an odor coming from the house. Carwhile lives down the road and said he was shocked to learn of the charges Thats unbelievable around here in Limestone county, you know, Ive never heard of it around here, he said. Limestone Veterinary Clinic owner and Doctor Elisabeth OConnor said most of the animals are a mixture of poodles, cavaliers, and pekingesealong with two cats. Theyre getting spayed and neutered and groomed as necessary, said Dr. OConnor. So, theyre all absolutely delightful animals, and they deserve a fantastic home. Get breaking news, traffic and weather alerts directly to your smartphone. Download the News 19 App While they are encouraging the community to adopt their animals both new and old, they are also asking for the communitys help as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youre a groomer and youre interested in helping, if you just want to come and play with the dogs and help get them socialized, that would be fantastic take them for walks and things like that, she said. The animals will be ready for adoption as early as next week. Dr. OConnor also wants to remind the community that there are animals at the Limestone Veterinary clinic that have been there for weeks and deserve a loving home as well! If you are interested in filling out an adoption application, you can do so at the link on their website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. ANNISTON, Ala. (WIAT) The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has issued an Emergency Missing Child Alert for a 1-year-old child who was last seen in Anniston. The Anniston Police Department is asking for the publics help in locating ZaNariyah Parchman, who was last seen on April 1 at around 8 p.m. in the area of West 29th Street. Police believe that ZaNariyah may be with her biological mother, Christy Leigh Gray, in the northwest Florida area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with any information on her whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Anniston Police Department at 256-238-1800 or call 911. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. Apr. 4New Lebanon law director Mike McNamee is categorizing a recent lawsuit filed by ousted village manager Glena Madden against the village and some of its officials as "baseless" and "frivolous." Madden filed the lawsuit last month in the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas against the village, as well as co-defendants Mayor David Nickerson, former interim manager Rob Anderson, law director Mike McNamee, administrative assistant Shannon Bemis, and council members Nicole Adkins, Timothy Back, and Melissa Sexton. The lawsuit, filed in March, includes multiple accusations against the defendants, including claims of breach of contract, defamation, tortious interference with an employment relationship, promissory estoppel, abuse of process, malicious prosecution, violation of charter, and civil conspiracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McNamee rebuffed the complaint during a council meeting this week. "I don't think two cents about (these claims) because they are as frivolous, as baseless, and as groundless as the complaint (filed) on behalf of Glena Madden in the (writ of quo warranto) case," McNamee said, referring to a March 2024 complaint filed by Madden in Montgomery County court against both Anderson and the municipality of New Lebanon. That request, which had called for her reinstatement to the position of village manager and the ousting of Anderson, was ultimately rejected by the court. "This is another attempt to shake the village down," McNamee said Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madden is this time requesting judgment against the defendants in an amount in excess of $25,000, along with punitive damages, court costs, attorney fees, and any further relief deemed just and equitable by the court. Madden was put on administrative leave, and ultimately fired, in early 2024, along with several other village leaders. The 4-3 council votes were supported by Nickerson, Adkins, Sexton and Back. Madden called her firing 'a vendetta" led by Nickerson, who she had fired in 2019. Her new lawsuit argues that the defendants defamed her. It also says she was put on leave without a 7-day notice she says was required by her contract. Nickerson declined to comment on the lawsuit. McNamee said fighting the case will likely cost the village thousands of dollars, even if the court ultimately rules in its favor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We'll have to turn this in to our insurance carrier (and) the village will have to pay cash out of pocket to defend itself up to the deductible, which I believe is $25-$50,000," he said. "And our precious time is going to be wasted as we defend ourselves against these frivolous claims." McNamee estimated Madden's writ of quo warranto case cost the village between $50,000 and $75,000. "Quite frankly, I'm tired of getting sued; I think enough is enough," Councilwoman Sexton said. Vice Mayor Nicole Adkins asserted the lawsuits are hurting the village and its residents. "This is money that is being wasted ... it's costing our citizens and it's our community that is paying for this," she said. Last summer, Spain erupted with protests driven by the soaring tourist numbers putting a strain on residents daily lives. More than 90 million foreign visitors descended on the country in 2024, and consultancy firm Braintrust estimates that the number of arrivals will rocket to 115 million by 2040. Angered by the inadequate government measures to manage the flow, locals across Spain staged hunger strikes, plastered visitor hotspots with anti-tourism messages, and squirted tourists with water guns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the Easter holidays approach, the anti-tourism sentiment is brewing once again, and protests are ramping up. Hundreds of thousands of Spaniards marched in protests held in over 40 cities across the country on 5 April in anger over high housing costs with no relief in sight. Residents are demanding that authorities step up regulations before peak season sees tourist destinations overwhelmed again. Why are Spains residents protesting against tourism? The unchecked influx of tourists to Spain in recent years has generated a rash of unwelcome effects for residents. One major impact is the spiralling cost of housing as accommodation is snapped up for tourist lets and land bought for building new resorts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last April, demonstrators in Tenerife organised a hunger strike over two new hotel developments with some locals saying they had been forced to sleep in their cars or caves because they couldnt afford housing on the island. We have nothing against individual tourists but the industry is growing and growing and using up so many resources and the island cannot cope, Ivan Cerdena Molina, who helped organise the protests, told local news outlet The Olive Press. Related Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Airbnb and Booking.com are like a cancer that is consuming the island bit by bit. Other tourist hotspots like Barcelona and Madrid are also struggling with soaring rental prices for residents. In June last year, Barcelonas city council announced a plan to rid the city of tourist flat licenses by 2028. The city hasnt granted any new licenses since 2014, when it froze the supply at around 10,000 units. Spain is also planning to introduce a 100 per cent tax on properties bought by non-EU residents in its latest move to protect the housing market from foreign buyers. Sales of homes to foreigners, including EU citizens, make up roughly 15 per cent of the housing market, according to the Spanish property registry. The source of our problems: Anti-tourist protests ramp up ahead of Easter holidays Despite these moves, resentment continues to ferment with protests already taking place ahead of the Easter break. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Government authorities said that 15,000 marched in Madrid on 5 April, while organisers said 10 times that many took to the streets of the capital. In Barcelona, the city hall said 12,000 people took part in the protest, while organisers claimed over 100,000 did. Marchers in Madrid chanted "Get Airbnb out of our neighborhoods" and held up signs against short-term rentals. People gather during a demonstration to protest high housing costs in Barcelona, Spain, Saturday, April 5, 2025. The sign says "I'm not leaving vampire". - Emilio Morenatti/AP/Emilio Morenatti In Barcelona, one protester carried a sign reading I am not leaving, vampire", apparently in a message to a would-be real estate speculator seeking to drive him out of his home. In Majorca, locals staged a demonstration demanding solutions to the housing crisis under the slogan Lets end the housing business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The greed and avarice of hoteliers, politicians, real estate investors, and 'parasites' of all kinds" have also deteriorated the islands ecosystem, overloaded public services, and triggered gentrification, activists wrote in a letter prior to the protest. They concluded by imploring tourists not to come to the island, calling them the source of our problems. The fury of residents seems to have resonated with one council already. After protesters descended onto the streets in Malaga, the city authorities announced they would cancel plans to build 1,300 tourist homes in the area. They are also reportedly considering a ban on selling properties to foreigners altogether. Will there be more anti-tourism protests in Spain this summer? Across the Canary Islands, employees in the hospitality sector are threatening to strike over the Easter holiday period in an ongoing dispute over pay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related Spains two principal trade unions - CCOO (Comisiones Obreras) and UGT (Union General de Trabajadores) - have proposed a one-time payment or a 7.75 per cent wage increase for hotel, restaurant and bar staff across the Spanish archipelago to mitigate the prohibitive living costs for workers. 33.8 per cent of residents in the Canary Islands are at risk of poverty or social exclusion, according to Spains National Statistics Institute, the highest figure for any region except Andalucia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, unrest broke out in Tenerife, fueled by anger over mass tourism. Activists vandalised a fleet of rental cars and warned they would escalate actions by targeting airports. Next month, 15 activist groups from Spain, Portugal, Italy, and France are holding a summit in Barcelona to coordinate efforts to counter unsustainable tourism. The Majorca-based movement Menys Turisme, Mes Vida (Less Tourism, More Life) has said it will redouble efforts this summer. The alliance of groups campaigns against the adverse effects of excessive tourism, which it blames for exacerbating property speculation, displacing local residents, and inflating living costs. Credit: David Rose (Telegraph) / Reuters Donald Trumps administration is actively seeking to champion more anti-abortion protesters facing prosecution in the UK in a move that risks a transatlantic rift. The US State Department is understood to have contacted a pro-life Christian charity asking to speak to campaigners who have suffered from censorship of their views. The disclosure came as an anti-abortion campaigner backed by the White House warned of a dark day for Britain after she was convicted for protesting outside a clinic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Livia Tossici-Bolt, 64, praised the Trump administration for its support as she was handed a two-year conditional discharge and ordered to pay 20,026 in costs for breaching a ban on protests in a protected buffer zone around the BPAS facility in Bournemouth, Dorset. The dual UK-Italian citizen and mother of three stood outside the clinic holding a sign that read: Here to talk if you want to. Giving her verdict, District Judge Orla Austin said that Tossici-Bolt was not lawfully exercising her rights of freedom of expression under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The protester is being supported by Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), a US conservative Christian pressure group, which is opposed to Britains abortion protest laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Telegraph understands that the State Department took up her case after it approached ADF seeking to meet UK-based campaigners facing legal action. Tossici-Bolt insisted she had not become a political pawn, saying: I cant worry about things outside my control. Tossici-Bolt said she never imagined US officials would issue a public statement in her support - David Rose For the Telegraph The prosecution gained global attention this week after the State Department announced it was monitoring her case, risking a diplomatic row with Britain. In a highly unusual intervention, the State Departments bureau of democracy, human rights and labour posted a statement on X on Sunday saying: We are monitoring her case. It is important that the UK respect and protect freedom of expression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A US source even suggested that the row could derail negotiations with Britain over tariffs, claiming there could be no free trade without free speech. On Friday evening, after the conviction, the State Department posted on X, formerly Twitter, saying: We are disappointed with the UK courts conviction of Livia Tossici-Bolt for violating a designated buffer zone at an abortion clinic. Freedom of expression must be protected for all. Sam Samson, a State Department senior adviser, met Tossici-Bolt and ADF representatives in the UK a fortnight ago to discuss a response, it can be disclosed. Speaking to the Telegraph, Tossici-Bolt said: I was amazed they were listening to me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were very sympathetic, very helpful and supportive - so much so that we are at this point. I wasnt expecting this. Its been surreal. Tossici-Bolt said she never imagined US officials would issue a public statement in her support and was unaware of the development until ADF alerted her. She said: I wouldnt even have noticed. Somebody had to alert me, because I wasnt expecting this. She added that she was not afraid of being caught up in politics, saying: I have so many worries already, I cant worry about things outside my control. I am me. That is what counts. Its that I am passionate, I will continue to be passionate about this, and yes, I am in the middle of something bigger than me. [1/2] U.S.-UK relations share a mutual respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. However, as Vice President Vance has said, we are concerned about freedom of expression in the United Kingdom. State Dept: Democracy, Human Rights, & Labor (DRL) (@StateDRL) March 30, 2025 The US intervention followed a speech by vice president JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference in February, where he warned that Western democracy is eroding through censorship, and that basic liberties of religious Britons, in particular, were under threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, revelations that the State Department is actively targeting cases in Britain are likely to further complicate the special relationship as Sir Keir Starmer attempts to strike a trade agreement with president Trump. Tossici-Bolt said the intervention had been overwhelming. She suggested that Mr Vance had helped to speed up the free speech debate in Britain and exposed an issue that was festering away - and probably would have taken longer to come out. The protester dismissed concerns raised by critics that the extraordinary interference by Britains closest ally was unacceptable. She said: You need somebody from the outside to have a look - a dispassionate look - to say, Hey, whats happening?. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked if Sir Keir was risking ties with the US, Tossici-Bolt said trade deals were not her area of expertise, but warned that failing to confront free speech threats means we are risking our own life, our own democracy, and thats the most important thing to me, is our culture, our own life. She added: I do agree with what Vance said in Munich: the threat is from within. Asked what she would say to Mr Vance, Tossici-Bolt replied: I would thank him very much for bringing this to the forefront, because, maybe without his intervention, it would have taken longer - and there is an urgency in this for the whole of Europe. Tossici-Bolt, a retired NHS medical scientist who has lived in the UK for 35 years, described the verdict against her as a dark day for Great Britain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said: I was not protesting and did not harass or obstruct anyone. All I did was offer consensual conversation in a public place, as is my basic right, and yet the court found me guilty. Freedom of expression is in a state of crisis in the UK. What has happened to this country? The US State Department was right to be concerned by this case as it has serious implications for the entire Western world. Tossici-Bolt, seen outside Poole Magistrates Court on Friday, said without the ability to give our opinion, to express our opinion, we cannot go forward - Anthony Upton for The Telegraph She claimed that her prosecution under buffer zone laws was just one example of an Orwellian erosion of free speech in Britain, linking her case to that of the Darlington nurses going through a tribunal after requesting single-sex changing rooms, and parents investigated by police over comments in a school WhatsApp group. She added: Its unbelievable that freedom of speech is not happening in our universities, where future citizens are formed. Freedom of speech is one of the foundations of democracy. So if students learn to be so anti-freedom of speech, where are we going? Thats a real, real concern to me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unbelievable - it is painfully unbelievable. How have we arrived at this point? she asked. On two consecutive days in March 2023, Tossici-Bolt stood diagonally opposite the BPAS clinic in Bournemouth, approximately 50 metres away, holding a sign. She refused requests to leave the area, claiming that she had not been given an adequate reason to do so, and declined to pay two fixed penalty notices issued by the council. Asked why she rejects the view that womens right to private abortion access outweighs protest rights, she told The Telegraph that pro-life volunteers are wrongly labelled as protesters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She claimed that protesters are there to offer help - a different kind of free speech that should be treated differently. Critics disagree, arguing that the protesters are intimidating to vulnerable women who feel unfairly judged and are often making a difficult decision in hard circumstances. Tossici-Bolt said she felt let down by the Labour government and questioned why it had taken a foreign power to stand up for the rights of British citizens. She particularly singled out a decision by Bridget Phillipson, the Education Secretary, to water down the Freedom of Speech Act proposed by the Tories to protect people in universities who air controversial views. Ms Phillipson was set to revive those laws following a backlash, The Telegraph reported in January. Tossici-Bolt said: I do feel that we are being let down - particularly at the start of this Government, when the Education Secretary altered the Freedom of Speech Act in universities. That was unbelievable, and thats a worrying sign of something maybe even worse to come.] So I do feel that freedom needs to be brought back in this country. Asked what she would say to Sir Keir or Ms Phillipson, Tossici-Bolt said she would remind them that without the ability to give our opinion, to express our opinion, we cannot go forward. Weve ended up oppressed and compressed to only work and think in a certain way. And thats not what we want. Thats not a democratic society. She added: We need good citizens to be able to express themselves to criticise, to praise everything. But we need to be free, because freedom of speech is the foundation of democracy, and thats what we have to treasure. Downing Street said it was vital that women using abortion services can do so without being subject to harassment or distress, and the right to protest does not give people the right to harass others. Asked about the conviction, a Number 10 spokesman said: Obviously sentencing decisions are a matter for the courts so I wouldnt cut across that. The official said laws on buffer zones reinforce that the right to protest is a cornerstone of our democracy, but that it does not give people the right to harass others. Asked whether there is a problem with free speech in the UK, the spokesman said Britain has a very proud tradition of free speech over many centuries, and we remain proud of it today. The State Department has been approached for comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A recent $180 million wage-fixing settlement among the largest firms in the poultry industry shows another consequence of unchecked monopoly power. Photo by Stephen Ausmus/Agricultural Research Service, USDA. For Minnesota legislators looking for ways to protect workers, an unlikely source has provided an important blueprint. Federal Trade Commission Chair Andrew Ferguson is establishing a Joint Labor Task Force that will prioritize investigating corporate conduct that harms workers. In announcing the task force Ferguson wrote that deceptive, unfair, and anticompetitive labor practices are widespread and identifies a range of harmful practices, including noncompete agreements, wage-fixing agreements and the abuse of consolidated power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While an antitrust agency might not seem the obvious place for labor policy, the unchecked rise of monopoly power is a significant threat to workers. Fergusons announcement continues the approach of his predecessor, Lina Khan, and other Biden administration regulators. That approach is not new, as the architects of our antitrust laws understood the threat monopolies pose to workers. Sen. John Sherman, author of the Sherman Antitrust Act, said in 1892 that a monopoly commands the price of labor without fear of strikes, for in its field it allows no competitors. That statement rings true today. The average local labor market in the U.S. is considered highly concentrated by federal antitrust guidelines, and one out of every eight labor markets is dominated by a single employer. The result of that, according to a 2022 study by the Treasury Department, is that the average worker earns roughly 20% less than they would if there was more competition. In 2023 Minnesota took a step in addressing that issue by requiring the impacts on health care workers to be considered when evaluating large health care mergers. Legislators could build on that law by requiring labor market analysis as part of merger review across the economy. States across the country have proposed requiring more pre-merger notification and labor market analysis could be made a part of such a proposal. Legislators could also pass the Fair Competition Act, which would make it clear that the abuse of monopsony power when big players use their power to push down prices from suppliers and labor is a violation of Minnesotas antitrust law. A recent $180 million wage-fixing settlement among the largest firms in the poultry industry shows another consequence of unchecked monopoly power. Companies not only gain greater power over workers but can also more easily collude with those firms that remain. In an economy that has grown 50% more consolidated since 2005, this behavior is likely to increase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, a 2007 Supreme Court decision has made it more difficult to bring price and wage-fixing cases. Legislators could ease enforcement by amending Minnesota law to shift the burden onto defendants instead of requiring plaintiffs to provide explicit evidence of price-fixing before further facts can be obtained through discovery. Traditional wage-fixing is just the tip of the iceberg. A recent report on surveillance prices and wages demonstrates how detailed data collection to feed algorithms and artificial intelligence will make it even easier for companies to conspire against workers and drive down wages. One approach to this emerging challenge is to prohibit algorithmic price and wage-fixing, which some legislators are seeking to do in the rental industry. The use of third-party analytics companies to fix prices and wages is not confined to housing, however. Legislators could draw on a federal proposal, Senator Amy Klobuchars Preventing Algorithmic Collusion Act, for a way to prohibit tacit collusion against workers across Minnesotas economy. In addition to the impact on wages and jobs, anticompetitive conduct is transforming the basics of what a worker really is. Consider a proposal to allow Uber and Lyft drivers to unionize. The underlying reason such legislation is necessary is because ridesharing platforms misclassify their workers as independent contractors and then exert control using anticompetitive vertical restraints, which are contracts governing buyer-seller relationships. This business model would have been a clear violation of antitrust laws before a multi-decade effort to weaken enforcement against anticompetitive vertical restraints. Now gig companies and others are able to maintain a system of control without responsibility firms can tightly manage individuals while avoiding the legal and financial responsibilities of formal employment. Uber controls the routes and rates supposedly independent drivers receive while the independent trucking companies Amazon uses must deliver packages exclusively for Amazon in vehicles branded by Amazon, and using routes, rates and schedules dictated by Amazon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minnesota took steps to limit vertical restraints by banning non compete clauses and no-poach agreements in 2023. But lawmakers could build off that work by strengthening the states antitrust laws to more clearly prohibit the use of other anticompetitive and coercive contracts that exploit workers and limit freedom and mobility. For too long the concept of what constitutes labor policy has been narrowly confined to issues like minimum wage rates and right-to-work laws, but our antimonopoly tools are an important part of keeping workers from suffering under the thumb of monopolists. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, April 4. President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and discussed issues of multilateral cooperation, Trend reports, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The leaders expressed confidence that the high-level meeting would analyze the current state of bilateral and multilateral cooperation and discuss the prospects for further development of relations. They emphasized that this would contribute to addressing key challenges in enhancing relations between Central Asia and the European Union. President Ursula von der Leyen noted the European Unions interest in strengthening multilateral partnerships with Central Asian countries, including Turkmenistan. President Berdimuhamedov emphasized that Turkmenistan attaches great importance to the expansion of fruitful ties with the European Union. In line with the EU's green energy policy, Turkmenistan pays special attention to the introduction of new technologies and ensuring the stability of energy resources. In the framework of cooperation, Turkmenistan is also successfully implementing projects in areas such as legislation, science and education, agriculture, environmental protection, and climate change mitigation. The President also expressed gratitude to the President of the European Commission for her contribution to the development of relations between Turkmenistan and the European Union. In conclusion, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and President Ursula von der Leyen, expressing confidence in the continued successful expansion of their partnership based on the principles of equality and mutual benefit, exchanged best wishes for each other. NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) April marks Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about this often-overlooked disease. This month, we come together to spread vital information, support patients, and encourage early detection. Andrew Salner, medical director of the Hartford Hospital Cancer Center, explains some common signs and symptoms of head and neck cancer that people should be aware of. Salner also explains how Hartford Hospitals Cancer Center plays a crucial role in diagnosing and detecting these symptoms early and the available treatment options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch the video above and visit hartfordhospital.org/cancer to learn more. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. In just three weeks, a state program that allows seriously disabled children to remain in their homes will run out of money. Republican legislators are, naturally, leaping to respond. Theyre taking bold and decisive action To blame Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs. Consider the epic levels of finger pointing in the form of news releases, floor speeches and this weeks sham hearing of the Ad Hoc Committee on Executive Budget Management, convened to discover why the Division of Developmental Disabilitys Parents as Paid Caregivers Program is about to run dry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This committee was created because Arizonans deserve answers, Rep. Matt Gress, R-Phoenix and the panel's chairman, wrote in a news release about his April 3 hearing. When basic financial management is ignored at the highest levels of the Executive Branch, it puts essential services at risk. Were here to follow the facts, uncover the truth, and hold this administration accountable because taxpayers deserve transparency, not surprises. Republicans were happy to pay ESA shortfall The PPCG program was created in 2020, when parents couldnt find people to come into their homes to care for their disabled minor children due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program, which pays parents to stay home with their minor children who need extraordinary care, was initially federally funded, prompting Hobbs to fill in with state Division of Developmental Disability funding when those federal funds were reduced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, its $122 million short of making it through the fiscal year, due in large part because of explosive growth in the program growth that occurred without legislative approval. Funny, I dont recall any Republicans boo-hooing about mismanagement or convening ad hoc hearings last year when their universal school voucher program was $274 million short, due to unforeseen explosive growth. Instead, the Legislature approved $274 million in supplemental funding for Empowerment Scholarship Accounts, ensuring that every parent who wanted choice for their child could scoop up an average of $7,500 in taxpayer funds to pursue it. Even if theyd already exercised that choice, taxpayers were now apparently willing to pay for it. Yet when it comes to ensuring choice for the parents of developmentally disabled children the choice of being able to stay home and care for them vs. having to institutionalize them Republican legislators are dragging their feet. Suddenly, 'guardrails' on spending are a thing? Before they can release the money money that Hobbs requested in January they say they must devise guardrails to ensure the PPCG program doesnt run over budget in future years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We, the Republicans, the adults in the room, are ensuring these programs will continue this year and the years after, Rep. Neal Carter, R-San Tan Valley, explained during the April 3 hearing. Funny, I dont recall Republicans embracing guardrails when their ESA program ballooned to jaw-dropping levels as stories were told of our money being spent on $900 Lego sets and Snow Bowl ski passes and even a kayak, all in the name of school choice. Opinion: Another ESA scam in Arizona? I am so (not) shocked For several years now, Hobbs has proposed various reforms designed to ensure that ESAs dont break the bank and that our money is spent on legitimate academic endeavors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes run smack into a brick wall at the GOP-controlled Legislature. Lets be very clear. Katies half cocked attempt to destroy an invaluable parental choice option via death by a thousand cuts is DOA at the Capitol. The @AZFreedomCaucus will make sure of it, Sen. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek, said last year in response to her call for ESA reform. Where was legislative oversight on vouchers? Last summer, Attorney General Kris Mayes opened an investigation into ESA spending, warning that there had to be an educational reason to justify expenses. Republicans were furious. It appears that the Attorney Generals Office is advancing an argument that documentation is required for most ESA-related expenses, then-House Speaker Ben Toma fumed. The legislative record does not support such an overly restrictive view or burdensome administration of the ESA program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, suddenly, Republicans are all about oversight, incensed that Democrats boycotted this weeks ad hoc hearing. This Legislature asked for answers. The Governor responded with a tantrum, Gress lamented in an email to the Arizona Mirror. What she calls a political stunt is actually legislative oversight a constitutional duty that we will carry out whether she likes it or not. Don't punish kids in attempt to punish Hobbs Gress is right. There is nothing wrong with a little legislative oversight. (If only Congress thought that way ... ) But we are just three weeks away from tens of thousands of the states most vulnerable residents, children with devastating disabilities, seeing their lives upended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And for what? The chance to take Hobbs on an oh-so-predictable pre-election-year trip to the woodshed? You may be aiming for Hobbs jaw, Rep. Gress, but youre inflicting pain on people who cant fight back. And really, you Republicans, theres a simple solution here. Just close your eyes and pretend this is about ESAs. Reach Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @LaurieRobertsaz, on Threads at @LaurieRobertsaz and on BlueSky at @laurieroberts.bsky.social. Like this column? Get more opinions straight into your email inbox by signing up for our free opinions newsletter, which publishes Monday through Friday. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: ESA spending gets a free pass. Caregivers get the shaft | Opinion Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes foreshadowed her office's 10th lawsuit against the Trump administration during a town hall in Mesa that allowed Arizonans hours to air their concerns about the leadership of the country. The Democratic attorney general and Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Ariz., drew a crowd of a couple hundred people on April 3. The gathering was the latest of a string of public events each has held to highlight their work to stand up to President Donald Trump, whose first months in office have brought sweeping funding and workforce cuts in the name of government efficiency. Mayes has filed nine lawsuits against the Trump administration, the most recent challenging an elections-related order, which came just hours before she spoke to the crowd in Mesa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "By tomorrow night there will be a 10th," she promised, drawing applause. Asked after the event, Mayes would not confirm what the focus of her latest lawsuit would be. But she said her office was looking at action on Trump's cuts to smaller agencies, including one that supports museums and libraries. "What we saw tonight was a tremendous show of opposition to what Donald Trump and Elon Musk are doing to this country," Mayes said. Mayes and Stanton pledged to counter Trump in the courts and in Congress, respectively. Mayes said it would take three things. "Crowds, we got that covered, she said to the overflowing room. Its about courts, Im trying to have that covered, and its about courage." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With those three things, "they cant stop us," Mayes said. Reach of Trump administration cuts on display at town hall Questions from Arizonans gathered at the event highlighted the reach of the Trump administration's cuts, with several people asking what they could do in the face of such sweeping change. A mental health counselor asked how she could support clients feeling overwhelmed. Donna Gifford, of Ahwatukee, stood to speak, emotion choking her voice. "This is me having courage," she said. She said her daughter was furloughed from her firm, which worked for the United States Agency for International Development, and expected to lose her job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Id like to know if you think we can ever recover from the loss of soft diplomacy? Gifford asked. Stanton warned that the U.S. pulling back on aid to other nations allowed adversaries like China to step in. He said the U.S. has stepped back from disaster aid, noting the earthquake that killed thousands in Myanmar. "The decimation of USAID if you support the United States being the strongest country in the world, I do thats one of the most self-defeating things he could have done, Stanton said, adding the nation has no choice "once we have new leadership in the White House to rebuild our system of alliances that is being destroyed right now." Gifford said later that she felt heard. "I feel like it matters to be here," she said, "like it matters that I spoke." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christal Cline, of Mesa, asked whether Trump could stay in office by suspending elections. Cline is a Democrat and said she has been a poll worker since 2020. "I would like to have more specifics on how we could prevent him declaring a national emergency and suspending elections," she said. "Id like if it didnt depend on the Supreme Court." Mayes said Trumps election order, against which she and Secretary of State Adrian Fontes filed suit earlier on April 3, was the presidents "first step to try to essentially seize control of state elections." She expressed support for the nation's top court while acknowledging fears among Democrats that the Trump-appointed justices, who bolstered the court's conservative majority, might side with the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I still believe in them, I do. Its going to come down to them, and then after that all of us potentially," Mayes said. If Trump tries to defy elections, "we will take it to the United States Supreme Court and then we will find out whether the United States Supreme Court believes in America." 'This was a political rally' Mayes has made community listening sessions a regular feature of her time in office, and participated in four such events related to the Trump administration prior to the Mesa gathering. Two of those included other states' attorneys general in a national tour that began in Phoenix on March 5. Mayes then went to Minnesota for a second event at a taxpayer-funded travel cost of $870, according to her office. Next week, she plans to travel to Oregon for another session. Stanton likewise has joined public education advocates, union representatives and others to decry federal funding cuts. The congressman has objected to cuts that could threaten semiconductor manufacturing or infrastructure projects that are a longtime in the making, like the widening of Interstate 10 south of Phoenix. The Democratic duo pledged to stand in the way of Trump's orders and efforts to trim government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If this president thinks that the United States of America is ... by flooding the zone with all of these illegal acts, falling comfortably numb into authoritarianism, hes got another thing coming," Stanton said. Not all who attended the Mesa event oppose the president, however. One man wore a Make America Great Again hat. Next to him sat Sonny Allison of Mesa, a registered Republican. "This was a political rally, this was not a town hall," he said. "I'm grateful that he had this, but I'd appreciate more of a town hall setting as opposed to a political rally." Reach reporter Stacey Barchenger at stacey.barchenger@arizonarepublic.com or 480-416-5669 This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona to sue Trump administration for 10th time, Kris Mayes says LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin is giving tips and encouraging caution for homeowners affected by the April storms. Griffin reminded that Act 376 of 1997 prohibits price gouging and went into effect on April 2 as Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders declared a state of emergency. He cautioned that unscrupulous people may already be preying on homeowners with promises of quick repairs. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin announces lawsuit against General Motors & OnStar Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The AG continued to remind homeowners to remember two things: Insurers will honor their home policies, and there is no need to feel rushed or pressured to sign a contract. Griffin gave seven tips for homeowners to avoid being scammed: Get more than one estimate. Demand references and check them out. Never let contractors pressure you into hiring them. Never sign a contract with blanks to be filled in later. Never pay a contractor in full until the work is finished. Never let a contractor discourage you from contacting your insurance company. Make sure you review and understand all documents sent to your insurance company. He added that price gouging, which Arkansas law defines as charging more than 10% above pre-disaster cost, is illegal when an emergency has been declared. A fine for violating the law is $10,000 per incident fine and a Class A misdemeanor charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorney General Tim Griffin clarifies Arkansas stance on lawsuit against Section 504 rule Goods covered by the anti-gouging law are: Building materials, including lumber, construction tools, windows, and anything else used in the building or rebuilding of property Consumer food items, including any article that is used or intended for use for food, drink, confection, or condiment by a person or animal Emergency supplies including, but not limited to, water, flashlights, radios, batteries, candles, blankets, soaps, diapers, temporary shelters, tape, toiletries, plywood, nails, and hammers Gasoline or any fuel used to power any motor vehicle or power tool Any rental housing, including housing provided by a hotel or motel Medical supplies, including, but not limited to, prescription and nonprescription medications, bandages, gauze, isopropyl alcohol, and antibacterial products Transportation, freight and storage services, including any service by any company that contracts to move, store or transport personal or business property or rents equipment for those purposes Attorney General Tim Griffin investigating Liberty Utilities billing in Jefferson County Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Griffin said that the ban on price gouging will remain in effect for 30 days after an emergency has been declared. Violations can be reported to the attorney generals office by calling 800-482-8982, emailing consumer@arkansasag.gov, or visiting the price gouging section of the offices website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Officials with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield announced assistance for members of its family of companies for those impacted by April storms. Officials said coverage includes members covered by Arkansas Blue Cross, Health Advantage, Octave Blue Cross and Blue Shield, and BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas. Assistance includes counseling, prescription maintenance, lost ID cards and more. Arkansas Storm Team Forecast: Severe storms likely tonight COUNSELING A free dedicated emotional support crisis line is available 24/7. To speak with a licensed clinical professional, call 1-833-848-1766 or 1-833-848-1764 through April 17. PRESCRIPTION Members can receive a 10-day emergency refill on maintenance prescriptions. Those needing specialty medications will be contacted regarding delivery arrangements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medication information is available at: Arkansas Blue Cross: 1-800-863-5561. Health Advantage: 1-800-863-5567. BlueAdvantage Administrators of Arkansas (for members who use prescription drug benefits with CVS Caremark): 1-888-293-3748. Health Advantage/Arkansas Blue Cross Exchange/Octave Blue Cross: 1-800-969-3983. LOST ID The Blueprint Portal Mobil app, in the App Store or Google Play, will allow clients to download an electronic ID card. Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders requests major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump ahead of potential flooding For other assistance, members should call the number on the back of their ID card or visit an Arkansas Blue Welcome Center at: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jonesboro, 2110 Fair Park Blvd, 870-935-4871, or Pine Bluff, 509 Mallard Loop, 870-536-1223. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has requested a major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump as the state prepares for potential flooding. Sanders submitted a letter to the president requesting direct federal assistance for the Arkansas storms that began Wednesday, April 2. Tornadoes, winds, flooding and hail: Arkansas wakes up to disastrous severe storm damage Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials with the governors office said rivers across the state will have a flood risk due to heavy rainfall, which will also add additional pressure to river levees. This week is bringing generational rainfall to Arkansas and, though our emergency personnel are working overtime to keep everyone safe, additional federal assistance is necessary for our disaster response efforts, Sanders said. I appreciate President Trump and his administrations assistance as we work to save lives and property. Many rescued from collapsed homes after Lake City EF-3 tornado Sanders said officials with the Arkansas Department of Transportation are reporting that State Highway 37 in Jackson County and State Highway 79 in Lee County are closed due to high water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Arkansas Storm Team has issued an Alert Day for Friday and Saturday. Rain will continue Friday, but heavy rain and flash flooding will be a concern Saturday. A flood watch is in effect until Sunday morning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. CLARKSVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) A Johnson County man has pleaded guilty to a manslaughter charge in connection with a fatal shooting he claimed was in self-defense, according to court documents. Court records say on April 2, Mark Gonzalez, 23, entered a guilty plea to a manslaughter charge for shooting and killing Joseph Middleton, 49, of Clarksville, in August 2024. Mark Gonzalez, 23 (Courtesy: Johnson County Detention Center) He was sentenced to 15 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections with five years suspended after waiving his jury trial. He received credit for the 228 days served in prison prior to his guilty plea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arkansas State Police said on August 18, 2024, the Johnson County Sheriffs Office requested assistance from the department in the investigation into Middletons death. A probable cause affidavit said JCSO deputies responded to a home on Private Road 3533 in Clarksville after a man had been shot. Siloam Springs man arrested after police find nearly 200 CSAM videos Once on the scene, deputies found Middletons body and Gonzalez said he shot Middleton in self-defense after he came at Gonzalez with an axe, according to the affidavit. A witness who was in the room at the time of the shooting told JCSO that they did not see the axe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 911 was not immediately called, witnesses said, but someone did so more than an hour after Middleton had been shot. Gonzalez was interviewed and said he had a loaded gun in his waistband when Middleton went to his home because of bad vibes. He told officials there was only one other person in the room at the time of the shooting, but it was later revealed there were two witnesses in the room. Gonzalez was arrested on a first-degree murder charge but he negotiated a guilty plea for a manslaughter charge, according to court records. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Members of the Arkansas Board of Corrections attend a meeting at the North Little Rock headquarters on Feb. 12, 2025. Left to right: Lona McCastlain, William "Dubs" Byers, Chairman Benny Magness, Lee Watson, Brandon Tollett, Grant Hodges. Board member Alonza Jiles attended remotely. (Mary Hennigan/Arkansas Advocate) The state prisons board on Thursday approved sending out a request for general contractors to submit proposals to build a new prison in Franklin County. According to documents provided to the board, the Department of Corrections will begin advertising the request on April 8, with a deadline for submitting proposals on April 22. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department is aiming to receive approval from the Division of Building Authority in June. Also in June, the department plans to bring the project to the Arkansas Legislative Council for review. Early sitework is proposed to start in September, with the start of construction for the planned 3,000-bed prison in January 2026. The board also voted to appoint an executive committee to review the proposals and oversee the overall design process for the prison. The executive committee will have approval and decision-making authority in the interest of making decisions about the proposed prison expeditiously, according to documents provided by the board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These decisions will not carry cost impacts until we have designed to the approved budget, a document about the committee read. Department of Corrections spokesperson Rand Champion said committee members would be selected later. The committee will submit the designs for each design phase to the Board of Corrections for approval. Once the budget is finalized, any changes that would impact the cost by more than $250,000 would require additional approval from the board, something that board chair Benny Magness expressed satisfaction with. Thats more than adequate to me, Magness told officials from Vanir Construction Management Inc., which the board retained to oversee the firm selected to build the prison. The board did not spend long discussing the prison, but briefly talked about utilities specifically, how drinking water and wastewater service would be established for the prison, which is proposed for a rural part of Franklin County. Opponents of the prison site have criticized its selection for a lack of adequate infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vanir officials discussed potentially building pipelines to bring in drinking water from Fort Smith; a wastewater pipeline is receiving similar consideration. Meetings with the city of Fort Smith about the matter would be happening on Friday, said Mike Beaber, the regional director for Vanir. Being able to pipe wastewater to Fort Smith instead of building a treatment facility on-site would allow builders to put that money back into the prison. Nothing is off the table, Beaber said. A $750 million appropriation bill needed to fund the prisons construction failed to pass the state Senate for the third consecutive day Thursday. In addition to the Franklin County prison, the board also raised the budget of a bed expansion at a work-release unit in Mississippi County by $4 million, which brought it up to $6.3 million. It had originally approved a $2.3 million budget in 2022, but multiple changes in the design have led to delays. The original budget called for adding 50 beds; the project now calls for 100 beds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve still done nothing? Magness asked. A department official confirmed that was the case. Now, the estimated cost of the planned expansion is $5.6 million. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX DENVER (KDVR) Boulder police are looking for a suspect in a reported armed robbery. Just after 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, the Boulder Police Department said a man walked into the Circle K gas station at 1704 Arapahoe Ave. The gas station is across 17th Street from Boulder High School. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Police said the suspect allegedly held a knife or box cutter to the clerks throat and stole money from the cash register. The suspect then ran from the store. A man reportedly threatened a gas station clerk with a knife in an armed robbery (Boulder Police Department) Now, Boulder police are looking for the man. He is described as a white male, last seen wearing a gray shirt, black jeans, a gray hat and black sneakers. Red lettering on the back of his shirt said (Experts Only). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said another individual may have been involved and was seen outside the store. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Taylor Hickam at 303-441-1936 or HickamT@bouldercolorado.gov. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, April 4. A South Korean-Turkmen seminar dedicated to cooperation in the textile industry was held in Ashgabat, Trend reports. The event was organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, the Ministry of Textile Industry of Turkmenistan, as well as Korean technological institutes KITECH and KIAT. Approximately 30 representatives from textile companies in Korea and Turkmenistan, along with officials from relevant departments, attended the seminar. Among the participants were leaders from textile companies, including SL TECH, CYS Bridge, and the Ashgabat and Turkmenbashi textile complexes, among others. During the seminar, reports were presented on technical expertise and the latest technologies in the textile industry. The Ambassador of Korea, Kim Chong-yul, highlighted the potential for collaboration based on Turkmenistans cotton resources and Koreas experience, aiming to implement the concept of the "Revival of the Great Silk Road." In general, South Koreas exports to Turkmenistan in January 2025 totaled $7.99 million. In December 2024, exports reached $12.68 million, indicating a decline of nearly 37 percent in January 2025. Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan signed a law on April 4 to formally begin Armenia's accession process to the European Union, Armenia's presidential press service announced. The document does not mean immediate accession, but reflects the "aspirations of citizens." European integration is now part of Armenian legislation. The Armenian parliament passed the bill, "On starting the process of accession of the Republic of Armenia to the European Union," in its final reading on March 26. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The initiative, launched as a civil petition after gathering 60,000 signatures, was backed by 64 lawmakers, with seven voting against it. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has stressed that the process can only proceed if the Armenian people approve it in a referendum. The Kremlin previously warned that a country cannot be a member of both the EU and the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). "Being members of two different organizations, hypothetically speaking, is simply impossible," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said. The EAEU, founded in 2015, consists of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan and is widely seen as a tool for Moscow to maintain influence over former Soviet states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Armenia's growing rift with Russia accelerated after the Kremlin failed to prevent Azerbaijan's September 2023 offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh, leading to the mass exodus of the region's Armenian population. Pashinyan previously said that while Armenia seeks closer ties with the EU, full membership remains uncertain. The European Parliament urged the EU to deepen ties with Armenia in a March 2023 resolution, noting that the country meets the Maastricht Treaty's requirements to apply for membership. Read also: Trump to attend NATO summit in The Hague in June, Sikorski says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Arizona farmers, ranchers and importers watched cautiously as the White House imposed sweeping tariffs on U.S. trading partners, shifting the target away from Canada and Mexico after threatening to resume 25% tariffs on products from those countries. The administration's action could still upend global commerce and result in taxes on fertilizer, pesticides, and machinery for Arizona farmers. Ahead of the presidential announcement on tariffs April 2, Farmers for Free Trade, a national nonprofit, hosted a live town hall from Tubac, Arizona, with economists and agricultural leaders. The discussion on the economic implications of tariffs took place as part of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas' Spring Policy Summit, held in the southern Arizona town. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Tariffs are taxes," explained George Frisvold, chair of Agribusiness Economics and Policy at the University of Arizona, at the event. "Increasing tariffs are tax increases. So what we are waiting to hear is whether we're going to have small tax increases or large tax increases." Companies in the United States pay U.S. Customs and Border Protection for tariffs on imported goods, and that tariff is regularly passed on to customers. The tariff increases were "huge" and some of the largest in the history of the U.S., Frisvold told The Arizona Republic after Trump's announcement. Using emergency powers, President Donald Trump imposed baseline tariffs of 10% on imports from nearly 60 countries, with higher reciprocal tariffs on who he called the "worst offenders," like China, the European Union, Japan and India. He exempted Canada and Mexico as long as the goods imported comply with the United StatesMexicoCanada Agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That exception is an important one since there is a very integrated market between the three countries. "It wouldn't make sense that we would tear up that agreement," said Brian Kuehl, executive director for Farmers For Free Trade, who moderated the town hall. "We are happy to see the president recognizes the importance of the USMCA he negotiated in his first term," Skip Hulett, chief legal officer for NatureSweet, told The Republic. The San-Antonio-based company, the largest greenhouse grower in North America, with 44 acres of greenhouses in Bonita, Arizona, grows most of its tomatoes in Mexico and imports them into the U.S. Tariffs on Mexico and Canada, and retaliatory tariffs from these countries on U.S. products, would severely disrupt the supply chain of fruits and vegetables across the country. In Arizona, customers would pay a very high price: Mexico supplies 98% of Arizona's $1.2 billion in vegetable imports, according to a report by Farmers for Free Trade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Arizona growers exporting products like cotton and alfalfa to other countries, the risk of loss is still high if there is retaliation, said Frisvold. All growers, regardless of crop, could see higher input costs from the blanket 10% tariff. Two-day tariff created a 'storm' for importers When Trump imposed a 25% tariff on goods imported from Canada and Mexico on March 4, the result was immediate, even though he undid the action two days later. USMCA is almost like a universal duty-free agreement. Under it, Arizona importers paid as little as 0.17 % in tariffs for products brought from across the border last year, $25 million in tariffs for $15 billion in imports, according to the Farmers for Free Trade report. A 25% tariff on Mexico would mean Arizona importers pay $251 million in taxes for tomatoes instead of $3,000; and $111 million in medical supplies tax instead of $0, the report suggested. Several boxes of produce sit in MAS Melons and Grapes in Rio Rico, Arizona on Nov. 27, 2024. Each are labeled with information on the crop such as where it was grown. These labels provide evidence of the binational trade between the U.S. and Mexico. For NatureSweet, the tomato producer, the two-day 25% tariff resulted in more than $500,000 paid to U.S. customs. In 2019, when pressure from tomato growers prompted the U.S. to place a 17.56% tariff on Mexico-grown tomatoes, NatureSweet deposited $1 million every week into CBP's coffers. It took both countries nearly two years to reach a new deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During those two days, Arizona ranchers transferred cattle across the border from Mexico and found out 10 days later that they owed $1.5 million because of the 25% tariff, and the exporter wouldn't cross more cattle unless paid, said Sheldon Robert Jones, deputy director of the Arizona Department of Agriculture, at the Tubac town hall. The uncertainty pushed many Arizona growers to take risks. "We've heard of farmers trying to get ahead of the curve. They've been pre-buying a year's supply of seed or fertilizer or other inputs, to get ahead of the tariffs. Which puts stress on their cash flow because they hadn't planned to do that," Jones said. In the past tariffs have also resulted in lower farmer income. During the first Trump administration, U.S. farmers' net market income was 21 to 25% lower than under the Obama administration and 36% lower than under the Biden administration, added the UA's Frisvold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their net farm income was slightly better when counting the billions of dollars that the first Trump administration paid them to lessen trade-related losses. It didn't fully compensate them, regardless. Effects on global agricultural trade The administration announced the highest reciprocal tariffs against China, Vietnam, Taiwan and Thailand, and tariffs higher than 20% for the European Union, Japan and South Korea. Those tariffs are "extreme" and still hit major agricultural export partners, said a press release from the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, or IATP, an international nonprofit research and advocacy organization. Trump is treating trading partners as enemies. They are not," wrote Karen Hansen-Kuhn, IATPs director of trade and international strategies. "We need to reform our trade policy, but abrupt and erratic tariff hikes with zero plans to stimulate sustainable production will cost thousands of people their jobs, both in the U.S. and in other countries, including key allies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ben Lilliston, IATPs director of climate and rural strategies, said this could be a "recipe for disaster" in combination with other current administration policies. This tariff fight comes as the Trump administration is breaking contracts with farmers and cutting programs designed for farmers to sell to local or regional markets," Lilliston wrote. "So, while export markets are being threatened, costs to farmers will likely rise, and programs that support domestic markets are being slashed." Retaliation is particularly worrisome for farmers. Countries tend to fire back, targeting agricultural products because it can be easy to source them from elsewhere, said Jones, with the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If China wants to buy wheat, soybeans or corn, they can go to Brazil. Or they can go to Australia to replace our beef," he said. "And guess what? Those supply chains get disrupted for two or three years, those relations are very hard to get back, and oftentimes they don't come back." The trade wars could increase regulation and taxation across the board, experts at the town hall said. "It's like an arms race," Frisvold said. Clara Migoya covers agriculture and water issues for The Arizona Republic and azcentral. Send tips or questions to clara.migoya@arizonarepublic.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona farmers, importers fear long-term effects of Trump's tariffs The Army recently updated rules for soldier participation in training and apprenticeship programs in their final six months of service, cutting down time windows for some in order to prioritize junior service members and maintain unit readiness. The changes, released in a military personnel message on Thursday, splits ranks into three categories with an associated number of days left on contract before they can use the Army Career Skills Program, Department of Defense SkillBridge and other internship programs. For category I, or ranks E1 to E5, soldiers may spend up to 120 days in the training before they end their service with the approval of a field grade commander. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Category II, or ranks E6-E7, WO1-CW3 and O1-O3, may participate in up to 90 days of training before the end of their contract with the approval of the first O6 commander in their chain of command. Marines cut time for career transition program, citing readiness Category III includes ranks E8 and above, CW4 and above and O4 and above. Those in category III may use 60 days with the approval of the first general officer in their chain of command. The goal, Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Orlandon Howard told Army Times in an emailed statement, is to prioritize junior enlisted needs for the program and continue to support all soldiers seeking out such programs while limiting the impact on unit readiness that end-of-contract training may create. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Army recognizes the value of the Career Skills Program, SkillBridge, and individual internship programs for Soldiers transitioning from the military to civilian life, Howard said. These changes concentrate the programs benefits where theyre needed most while limiting the impact on readiness. Previously, the Army allowed any rank to be eligible for such training for 120 days and required only the approval of the first field grade commander. Last year, the Marine Corps cut time in the program for exiting jarheads. The new standard allows Marines up to the rank of E5 to begin the program at the 120-day mark, while all ranks above sergeant may spend up to 90 days in the program, Marine Corps Times reported. In 2023, Army Times reported that two key senators said the military was falling short in preparing troops for their transition to civilian work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Military transition classes are falling short, lawmakers warn The comments by Sens. Angus King, I-Maine, and Kevin Craimer, R-N.D., echoed concerns in a Government Accountability Office report. The report noted much of the transition assistance program was too superficial and that 70% of transitioning troops did not begin the Transition Assistance Program until they were under a year left in their contract, despite the program requiring such TAP training be completed prior to the last year of service. An estimated 200,000 troops leave U.S. military service annually, Army Times previously reported. Research has shown that veterans face their highest risk of mental health problems and suicide within the first year of separation. Allegheny County Police have made an arrest after a man was beaten and robbed inside a home in Duquesne last week. On March 28, police responded to the 1000 block of Crawford Avenue for reports of a robbery and shots fired. The victim told officers that two males forced their way inside his apartment. He said they beat and pistol-whipped him while demanding money. During the assault, police said the victim was able to escape down a stairwell and reported hearing at least one shot fired when he ran. He was treated at the scene for multiple injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives said from witness interviews and evidence collected, they determined that Richard Hill, 18, was one of the people responsible for the assault. On Thursday, Allegheny County detectives saw Hill and another person enter a car in Duquesne. As detectives approached the vehicle, it fled. A short time later, detectives found the car stopped, and said both Hill and the other person ran from the area. Both were eventually taken into custody. Hill is facing multiple charges including attempted homicide, aggravated assault, robbery and persons not to possess a firearm. He was taken to the Allegheny County Jail pending preliminary arraignment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The second male was determined to be a juvenile and released after Allegheny County Police consulted with the district attorneys office. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW LAS VEGAS, N.M. (KRQE) A homicide suspect has been arrested in connection to a shooting from Monday in Las Vegas, New Mexico. Cody Ramone, 21, is being charged with second-degree murder, according to New Mexico State Police. APD: Walmart shooting investigated as potential justifiable homicide At about 1:30 p.m. on April 1, officers were dispatched to 5 Prairie Hill Road. They found Trevor Szalai lying on the ground with Ramone giving him aid. A shotgun was on the ground nearby. Szalai was pronounced dead on the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Agents learned the two men were in an argument that became physical before the shooting. A shotgun was brought out. The gun was fired at least once, striking Szalai. Ramone was taken to the San Miguel County Detention Center upon being taken into custody. The case is under investigation by New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) North country Assemblyman Scott Gray weighed in on a number of topics as the New York State budget deadline has passed. In the recent edition of his The Gray Area show, he provided updates on the progress of the state budget and a criminal investigation in his district. NYS Lawmakers pass another budget extender The assemblyman gave his thoughts on the state budget that is now late after missing the April 1 deadline. State lawmakers have passed a pair of extender bills to keep the government going. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The same issues are still hanging up the budget, Gray said. We will hopefully have better news next week. He also discussed recent news surrounding the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS). This week, we dealt with the memo from DOCCS, which instructs facilities to generate a list of incarcerated individuals who are eligible for early release according to the commissioners terms. This does not solve the systemic issues that have led to staffing reductions, and it will not help in recruiting future employees for our correctional facilities. Gray also addressed a local issue that has draw a significant amount of attention. The assemblyman gave his thoughts on the operation that took place at North Harbor Dairy Farm on Thursday, March 27. We are continuing to monitor the situation, but let me emphasize that this is an ongoing criminal investigation. It was not a raid on the farm. A warrant was issued for a specific individual, and that warrant covered the entire area. Assemblyman Scott Gray Gray added that it remains a criminal investigation, and when we have more information, well share it with the public. Its important for those politicizing this issue to understand the facts because much of the information being conveyed is not accurate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com. What's one of the first things you'd do after returning to Earth after almost 300 days in space? For Massachusetts native Sunita Williams seeing her dogs was near the top of the list. Williams, a native of Needham, MA, and astronaut Butch Wilmore recently returned to Earth after a much- longer-than-planned trip to space. The two were stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) for nearly 300 days, despite the original plan calling for it be a short trip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mission became the sixth longest in NASA's history. Here's what to know about what Williams did when she returned to her Texas home. What did Williams do when she came back to her house in Texas? She was greeted by her two dogs, and she is shown in a post on X playing with them when she arrived. With the video on X, she wrote, "Best homecoming ever!" What else did Williams say that she wanted to do as soon as possible? She said she wants to return to Massachusetts. "Personally, we have a house up in New England, and my husband has been talking about when we're going to get up there and do a lot of fun stuff up there," Williams said at a press conference after returning to Earth. Williams graduated from Needham High School in 1983, according to NASA. Her sister lives in Falmouth, MA and works at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute. Astronaut and Massachusetts native Sunita Williams reunites with her dogs this week at her home in Texas. Who is Suni Williams? After high school, Williams went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Physical Science, from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1987 and Master of Science in Engineering Management from the Florida Institute of Technology in 1995. She was selected as an astronaut by NASA in June 1998. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams is a veteran of two space missions. She was serving as the pilot of the recent Crew Flight Test mission aboard the Starliner. It is the first crewed flight for that vehicle. Why were the astronauts stuck in space on the ISS? The problems with the astronauts' ship the Boeing Starliner included helium leaks in the propulsion system and the failure of five thrusters. Four of the thrusters were restored and one was turned off for the rest of the mission, according to NASA. The initial return date was mid-June 2024. The mission was originally scheduled to be eight days but the return was delayed three times. This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Astronaut Suni Williams reunites with dogs being stuck in space. Video COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced that his office will prosecute the suspect charged in the hit-and-run that lead to the death of a USC student. The victim, Nathanial Nate Baker, was a junior at the University of South Carolina. Officials said that Baker was riding his motorcycle Wednesday, April 2, when he collided with the suspect at the intersection of Blossom and Assembly Streets. The suspect fled the scene and was arrested by the Columbia Police Department. The suspect, Rosali Fernandez Cruz, is stated by authorities to be in the country illegally, and has had an order for removal since 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a tragic situation, and our hearts go out to the family of Nate Baker, who had a bright future ahead of him, said Attorney General Wilson. His family sent him from Virginia to South Carolina to attend his parents alma mater and pursue his education. The individual charged in this case is an illegal immigrant ordered to be deported over seven years ago. Once criminal process is complete, Cruz is expected to be deported back to El Salvador. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) An attorney representing several Impact Plastics workers and their families is disputing parts of the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administrations (TOSHA) findings that were released Wednesday. This comes as a result of TOSHAs investigation into the events at Impact Plastics on Sept. 27, 2024, when Hurricane Helene caused fatal floods to rip through Unicoi County. TOSHA: No citations for Impact Plastics, Helene deaths werent work-related Milberg law firm represents six Impact Plastics employees or their families. Greg Coleman, a partner at the firm, told News Channel 11 the firm has several issues with TOSHAs report. He specifically cited a reference to a bilingual employee on site who was told to advise the Hispanic workers to leave while everyone was still in the facility. That person happens to be my client, Coleman said. Our client. The firms client. And I can tell you with utmost certainty that that did not happen. She was never advised by anyone in upper management to tell the Hispanic workers or others to leave until it was far, far, far too late. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coleman also pointed to the fact that Impact Plastics was the only business in the area that sustained loss of life. [Impact] Plastics was the only business that had any death or tragedy occur, Coleman said. All of the other businesses in that industrial park area where the hurricane and its flood waters hit, everybody else evacuated timely. Everybody else was told to go home timely, but not Impact Plastics employees. He claims the company ignored early warning signs and called the employees in early because they were behind in production. My client, the bilingual employee, along with some others, initially were asked by Impact to be there early to help with production because they were so far behind, Coleman said. Thats why they were even there to begin with. To come in early, to start catching up, because this was an important order. They were behind in production. They needed to get it out, and so thats a very, very relevant fact as to why anyone was even there to begin with. And so thats what happened that day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coleman also said there are aspects of the report he and his firm agree with. There was not proper training, Coleman said. The training, if it ever existed, was absolutely not implemented at the time all of this took place, that the management had plenty of time to make a decision to say, Okay, we want these folks out by X because thats exactly what every other business in that area did and did it safely. Those things that TOSHA highlighted in the report as to that property are accurate. Despite the report, the Milberg attorneys are ramping up their planned civil lawsuits against Impact Plastics. We dont plan on stopping until, as I like to say, the court of last resort, whether thats the Supreme Court or any other courts below, have told us to put the pen down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The planned civil lawsuit must be filed within a year of the event. Coleman told News Channel 11 that it will happen sooner rather than later. News Channel 11 reached out to Impact Plastics Thursday to respond to Colemans claims, but the company did not provide a response. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Bulgaria is actively working on infrastructure development to get additional gas from Azerbaijan, Zhecho Stankov, Bulgarias Minister of Energy, said in an exclusive interview with Trend on the occasion of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Councils meeting in Baku. Azerbaijan is a strategic economic partner of Bulgaria. There is excellent economic cooperation between the two countries and the energy sector occupies a key place in bilateral relations. Azerbaijan plays an important role as a source for diversification of natural gas supplies and enhancing energy security in our country and the South East Europe region. Energy transition is not possible without ensuring national, regional and international energy security. Projects such as the Southern Gas Corridor are a key factor in deepening regional cooperation, and diversified natural gas supplies from the Caspian region provide better conditions for businesses and consumers, he said. Stankov pointed out that Bulgaria is an important part of the development of the strategic Southern Gas Corridor project through the Greece-Bulgaria interconnector, which ensures the transmission of the raw material to Europe. Our country supports the expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, which will provide the opportunity to supply additional quantities of natural gas to Europe. To carry out these priority tasks, we are actively working to develop the country's gas infrastructure. One of Bulgaria's main priorities in the energy sector is the diversification of the sources and routes of energy resources, which will guarantee security and competitive prices for Bulgarian consumers. In the context of the European goals of building an interconnected and unified pan-European gas market and strengthening energy security, our country is pursuing a consistent policy of gas infrastructure development - modernization and expansion of the national gas transmission network and construction of reverse gas connections with neighbouring countries, said the minister. He recalled that Bulgaria was one of the first countries to sign a contract with Azerbaijan for natural gas supplies from the Shah Deniz field. We are actively working on the development of the gas infrastructure, which will allow us to transport additional quantities from Azerbaijan and other sources - a key condition for real diversification of sources and routes of natural gas supply. It is our firm belief that regional cooperation is one of the leading factors for successfully addressing energy security challenges, said Bulgarias energy minister. He pointed out that Bulgaria has repeatedly stated its interest in increasing the quantities of natural gas supplied from Azerbaijan. This is a leading factor for ensuring energy security not only in Bulgaria but in the whole region of South-Eastern Europe. In the context of the hostilities in Ukraine and the volatility of energy prices, opportunities for new quantities from a strategic partner like Azerbaijan become even more important. Therefore, we will continue to work to secure supplies that will guarantee us security and competitive gas prices, noted Stankov. Expanding cooperation with SOCAR The minister said that last year, SOCAR supplied and traded approximately 1 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually at the Balkan Gas Hub, in addition to the 1 billion cubic meters per year delivered under Bulgargaz EADs long-term contract with the Shah Deniz consortium. We expect these gas volumes traded by SOCAR at the Balkan Gas Hub to be maintained and even increased in the coming years. We would like to expand cooperation with Baku in promoting gasification and facilitating SOCARs entry into gas distribution activities in Bulgaria, such as the gasification of the town of Panagyurishte, along with other cities, he added. Stankov recalled that during COP 29 in Baku, in the presence of President Rumen Radev and President Ilham Aliyev, a binding agreement was signed for the development of residential and public gasification in the municipality of Panagyurishte. The agreement was concluded between SOCAR and Assarel-Medet, a Bulgarian company engaged in copper and other ore mining. In July, a contractor for the municipalitys technical design is expected to be selected, he said. The minister pointed out that as an EU member state, Bulgaria offers a premium energy market with stable and predictable legislation. We also support SOCARs hybrid gasification project in Bulgaria, which enables industrial and social consumers not connected to the transmission and distribution network to receive Azerbaijani gas via CNG deliveries. This project is a tangible contribution by SOCAR to promoting gasification in Bulgaria. Additionally, we support SOCARs potential expansion into Bulgarias fuel market, including the supply of diesel, gasoline, aviation fuel, and petrochemical products, Stankov explained. Green Energy Corridor project Bulgarias energy minister noted that the Green Energy Corridor project aims to strengthen national and regional energy security by diversifying energy supply sources and leveraging the renewable energy potential of the Caspian region. Last year, the Bulgarian government approved the acquisition of a 20% stake in the joint venture for the projects implementation through BEH EAD. We consider this a key decision for Bulgarias full participation in the initiative. Bulgaria has a well-developed electricity transmission system, interconnections with neighboring countries, and energy storage infrastructure, making it a strong and active player in the Green Energy Corridor project, he explained. Stankov pointed out that upcoming large-scale investments in grid digitalization, along with the plans to develop three new pumped-storage hydropower plants (PSHPPs)one of the most sustainable technologies for producing and storing green energyposition Bulgaria as a significant partner in the projects realization. The Green Energy Corridor initiative will enable Southeast Europe to fully benefit from increased green energy trade opportunities, which is crucial for the regions energy security, he concluded. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn PITT COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) Early on the morning of February 22, deputies with the Pitt County Sheriffs Office were called to Clarks Neck Road in Washington to help with a possible domestic violence issue. Once officers arrived they found 37 year old Lijena Hickman dead. Another woman, 24 year old Saraya Richardson from New Bern, was found with Hickman. Richardson was arrested and charged with failing to report a death/call 911. She was not given a bond due to her already being out on bond for charges from Craven County. On February 24, Richardson was additionally charged with death by distribution. She is at the Pitt County Detention Center with a new bond of $175,000 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By further investigating, detectives named another suspect in Hickmans death. The Beaufort County Sheriffs Office Narcotics Unit determined that the fentanyl the Hickman consumed was purchased from Aurora resident Archie Minor. Pitt County detectives arrested Minor and charged him with death by distribution, possession of heroin, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Beaufort County deputies charged Minor with possession of stolen firearm, possession of firearm by felon, possess weapon of mass destruction, trafficking opium or heroin and possession with intent to sell/manufacture/deliver schedule II controlled substance. Detectives also found 57 grams of fentanyl, two guns and one stolen gun in Minors residences. Minor is still in custody at the Pitt County Detention Center and was given a $3,765,000 bond. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. DENVER (KDVR) Aurora police gave the all clear after a bomb threat made over email to a middle school. Police said there was no immediate threat to students or faculty safety. A police spokesperson told FOX31 the department got a bomb threat call at Liberty Middle School at 3:46 p.m., after school had let out. A Cherry Creek School District official said some teachers and students were still at the school, however, so the school was evacuated. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police spokesperson said the departments K9 unit was also at the school investigating. The school district spokesperson said after-school activities were canceled. The threat came over email and mentioned a bomb in a classroom, according to the school district. Aurora police on X said at 5:49 p.m. that nothing suspicious was located. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. AURORA, Mo. An Aurora woman pleads guilty to a homicide less than three months after it happened. PREVIOUS: Missouri woman confesses to shooting husband, two others in two-state shooting spree, police say Thursday afternoon in a Lawrence County courtroom, Taylor Santiago pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, first-degree robbery, unlawful use of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child. Shes scheduled to be sentenced on June 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the early morning hours of January 23, Santiago went to the Aurora Police and Fire Facility saying she had just murdered her estranged husband, Troy Huffman, at her home. When officers responded to 104 Hamilton Circle, they found Huffman dead on the floor. Santiago told them she invited Huffman there under the pretense of seeing a kid. She said she pulled out a gun and shot him twice, once in the chest and once in the head. Santiago says she then drove Huffmans car to Carroll County, Arkansas, where she shot the biological father of one of her kids and his current girlfriend. The girlfriend died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charges have not been filed in the Arkansas incident. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. AUSTIN (KXAN) Five years ago, Austin voters said yes to a tax rate election that would fund the construction of a light rail line through the city, but Project Connect has yet to break ground. Austin transit leaders met this week and want to reassure the public that it is happening. The Austin Transit Partnership, the group in charge of bringing light rail to Austin, took part in a luncheon this week to provide an update on its efforts. The Austin Transit Partnership released their draft environmental impact statement, which is a huge milestone for us to continue forward with Project Connect and Austin Light Rail, said Ashika Ganguly, the executive director of Transit Forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, were still seeing a lot of ongoing outside threats to the project into Austin light rail, specifically legislation attacking Austin local control and our ability to build light rail here in the city and ongoing lawsuits and the threat of federal funding being taken away, Ganguly said. ATP said theyre hitting milestones consistently, that work is happening, and that theyre still on track to start construction in 2027. One of the comments we get in that effort all the time is, get moving, but lets get the project under construction. Somebody even said, lets have less meetings. And I said, Well, I hear you and amen to that. But at the same level, us going out and talking to the community is part of the process,' Austin Transit Partnership CEO Greg Canally said. CapMetro is also a key player in the future of Austin transit, working alongside ATP and the Texas Department of Transportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most people dont realize how much work there is to do between idea and actually like turning dirt and tearing up the streets, CapMetro CEO Dottie Watkins said. I need every single one of yall to tell 10 people about whats going on with Project Connect and that things are going forward and that we continue moving forward, said Watkins. Watkins said a key to fewer traffic headaches amid a series of construction projects, like the I-35 Capital Express, is to explore your options. We will be encouraging a lot of folks to use the bus. Well be encouraging folks to work from home. Well be encouraging folks to try Vanpool, to try the commuter rail, to try alternate routes, so there will be a lot of solutions coming out to that, said Watkins. Project Connect Light Rail over Lady Bird Lake Rendering in April 2025 Project Connect Light Rail April 2025 Rendering along The Drag/ Guadalupe St / UT Project Connect Light Rail April 2025 Rendering overhead view at Pleasant Valley Project Connect Light Rail April 2025 Rendering at Congress and Oltorf Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Project Connect Light Rail April 2025 Rendering Greenway walking path ATP also released new renderings of the light rail system and how it could look. I have a vision of Austin in 2035 with a fully functional light rail and continued service improvements to our buses, our bike share, and all of Cap Metros other services, and I see that vision. I know everyone whos going to be in this room today sees that vision, and we are ready to make it a reality, Ganguly said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. After locals spotted an injured juvenile Philippine Hawk Eagle in the San Carlos City public market, officials moved quickly in response. The bird suffered a head injury after crashing into a net and was taken to a rehabilitation facility to heal before being released back into the wild. The Philippine Hawk Eagle is endemic to the Philippines, primarily the woodlands of Luzon and Mindoro. Like other birds of prey, it is an apex predator that plays an important role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem. Raptors like the Philippine Hawk Eagle control the population of rodents and other small mammals. The Philippine Hawk Eagle is an endangered species with a declining population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Threatened Species, there are only around 1-2,000 mature individuals left in the wild. However, the quality of data is considered poor, and the overall research on the species is still quite limited. The main threat to their continued survival is habitat loss caused by deforestation. Agriculture, illegal logging, and mining have all contributed to the loss of woodlands in the Philippines. Biodiversity is critical to maintaining a healthy ecosystem, and local, community-led efforts are an integral part of this effort. Habitat management, international cooperation, and local legislation can all contribute to a species' long-term survival. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) oversees the conservation, management, and development of the country's environment and natural resources. The DENR worked alongside local officials to rescue the injured hawk-eagle. DENR regional executive director Raul L. Lorilla told the Daily Guardian: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This rare circumstance is a call to action for residents to cherish and protect the rich biodiversity that surrounds them. Educational initiatives could help foster a deeper understanding and encourage everyone to play an active role in conservation efforts." 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. BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WJBF) The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) is seeking the publics assistance in locating missing 15-year-old, Tia Thacker. Tia was last seen in Beaufort, South Carolina one year ago on April 4, 2024. At the time, she was only 14 years old. She is described as 5 feet tall and weighs 114 pounds. Tia has brown eyes and black hair. She may go by the first name Symonee or the last name Martin. Law enforcement believes that Tia may still be in South Carolina and could be in Beaufort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is also possible that Tia may have traveled to Douglasville, Georgia or the surrounding states. No one has seen or heard from Tia since she was reported missing last year. Tias mother is very concerned for her safety and wants nothing more than to bring her home. She hopes that this message will reach Tia: I love you and I will never stop searching for you. If you have any information about Tia or her disappearance, please contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or the Beaufort County Sheriffs Office (South Carolina) 1-843-524-2777. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Authorities are asking the public to assist with identifying two in a retail investigation in March 2025. Police seek to identify two in retail investigation, Image courtesy Oklahoma City Police Department Police seek to identify two in retail investigation, Image courtesy Oklahoma City Police Department According to police, the man and woman (shown above) walked out of the Nike Outlet near Reno/Council with merchandise they did not pay for. Trust that instinct: Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper helps end Texas Amber Alert If you recognize either subject, you are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers 405.235.7300 / http://okccrimetips.com Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. North Macedonia has potential to serve as a transit route for Azerbaijani gas to other European markets, North Macedonian Minister of Energy, Mining and Minerals Sanja Bozinovska said in an exclusive interview with Trend on the occasion of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Councils meeting in Baku. North Macedonia views the Southern Gas Corridor as a strategically important project for diversifying natural gas supply, enhancing energy security, and accelerating the transition toward a more sustainable energy system. In this context, North Macedonia is prepared to strengthen cooperation with Azerbaijan and other partners in the Southern Gas Corridor and to take concrete steps to ensure energy stability both at the national and regional levels, she said. The minister pointed out that there is a strong commitment in North Macedonia to diversify gas supply sources, with Azerbaijan playing a crucial role as a reliable supplier. This is essential for our country, as it not only strengthens energy security and independence but also opens new opportunities for the development of gas infrastructure and increased utilization of natural gas. To achieve these objectives, North Macedonia is actively working on completing the gas interconnection with Greece, a key infrastructure project that will provide access to the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Alexandroupolis and Azerbaijani gas through the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP). Simultaneously, efforts are underway to expand the domestic gas distribution network, ensuring broader accessibility and greater efficiency in gas utilization, noted Bozinovska. She noted that North Macedonia aspires to become a significant player in the regional energy market and an active partner in initiatives aimed at improving connectivity and securing energy supplies. Given its geographical position in the Balkans, North Macedonia has the potential to serve as a transit route for Azerbaijani gas to other European markets. The country is determined to strengthen collaboration with EU and Southeast European partners to secure stable, affordable, and sustainable energy supplies and to participate in future gas network development projects. Although natural gas is a fossil fuel, North Macedonia considers it a transitional energy source that, through the development of cogeneration gas power plants, will contribute to reducing coal dependency in electricity production while increasing the capacity for renewable energy sources, said the North Macedonian minister. She announced that at the upcoming Advisory Council meeting on the Southern Gas Corridor, North Macedonia will reaffirm its commitment to becoming a more competitive and stable part of the regional energy market while positioning itself as an active participant in shaping the regions future energy supply. The country will outline concrete positions and initiatives aimed at improving energy connectivity, enhancing the security of natural gas supply, and supporting the green transition process. Discussions will focus on the possibility of securing long-term gas supply agreements with Azerbaijan through the TAP pipeline and alternative routes within the Southern Gas Corridor, as well as ensuring stable and competitive prices. Additionally, the strategic importance of the gas interconnector with Greece will be emphasized, as it will provide access to diverse gas sources, including LNG from Alexandroupolis and Azerbaijani gas from TAP. North Macedonia will reiterate its commitment to completing this project and seek support for its operational implementation, said the minister. Bozinovska went on to add that given the importance of diversification and energy security for the Western Balkans, North Macedonia will also propose exploring the creation of a regional coordination platform for gas supply among Southeast European countries. This initiative aims to enhance regional energy security and optimize transportation and supply capacities through better synchronization of infrastructure projects. North Macedonia will advocate for the implementation of projects that enable greater gas utilization, both in electricity production and across industrial and residential sectors, she said. The minister noted that North Macedonia recognizes the Southern Gas Corridor as a strategically significant initiative for ensuring energy security, stability, and diversification of natural gas supply in Europe. As a country actively expanding its gas infrastructure and integrating with regional and European gas networks, North Macedonia has a clear vision for supporting the continued development of this initiative. Through infrastructure investments, long-term agreements, regional cooperation, and support for the energy transition, the country aims to contribute to the creation of a stable, secure, and sustainable energy market in the interest of both the region and the broader European community, said Bozinovska. She noted that one of the key ways North Macedonia can contribute to strengthening the Southern Gas Corridor is through investments in national gas infrastructure and interconnectivity with neighboring countries. The primary project in this regard is the gas interconnection with Greece, which will enable access to natural gas transported via TAP and LNG terminals in Alexandroupolis. This project will position North Macedonia as an active consumer and a potential distribution hub for Azerbaijani gas and other sources within the Southern Gas Corridor. Additionally, the development of a national gas distribution network to ensure stable supply for industries, households, and the public sector remains a top priority. This will also facilitate the construction of at least two new cogeneration gas power plants and the conversion of an existing oil-fueled power plant into a gas-powered facility, added the minister. She noted that North Macedonia is committed to securing long-term gas supply agreements with Azerbaijan, ensuring a reliable and competitively priced energy source. During discussions at the meeting in Baku, North Macedonia will emphasize its readiness to cooperate with Azerbaijani partners and explore opportunities for additional gas volumes through the Southern Gas Corridor. While North Macedonia remains strongly committed to the development of renewable energy sources, natural gas continues to be a key transitional energy source. Expanding access to natural gas will help reduce reliance on coal in power generation, which is essential for lowering greenhouse gas emissions and achieving climate targets, Bozinovska said. The minister also highlighted that North Macedonia and Azerbaijan have signed a memorandum of cooperation during the COP29 summit in Baku. Through bilateral meetings, Azerbaijan has already offered concrete collaboration opportunities that could help North Macedonia position itself as a serious regional center for gas transportation. This has strategic significance for the countrys energy future and will bring benefits to both the economy and citizens. North Macedonia is committed to advancing this initiative and looks forward to support from international partners, she said. The minister noted that supply of Azerbaijani natural gas plays a crucial role in transforming North Macedonias energy landscape, bringing several significant benefits. Firstly, it ensures diversification of energy sources, as North Macedonia currently has limited natural gas supply capacities. Azerbaijani gas, arriving through the Southern Gas Corridor and the gas interconnection with Greece, provides a secure and sustainable alternative, reducing dependence on a single supplier. Secondly, it guarantees supply stability and security. By joining the Southern Gas Corridor, North Macedonia will secure long-term energy stability. Equally important, this will aid in reducing coal dependency and support the countrys energy transition. We consider natural gas a transitional fuel in the process of phasing out coal as the primary energy source for electricity generation. Both industry and households will benefit from a cleaner energy source, contributing to lower CO emissions and improved air quality. Additionally, this will serve as a stimulus for economic development, as long-term natural gas availability will attract new investments in the industrial and energy sectors. For all these reasons, North Macedonia is highly interested to ensure predictability, price stability, and energy security, said the minister. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) After more than 15 years of planning, setbacks and some promising progress, the effort to restore the rapids to the Grand River has been delayed. The whitewater rapids, which the city of Grand Rapids was once named for, were removed in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Organizers have spent years trying to bring them back. Grand Rapids receives EGLE permit for Grand River restoration project Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city of Grand Rapids has now withdrawn its bid for in-channel construction, citing continued delays for federal approvals and funding. Its tough, obviously, any time that there are changes to schedules, but this is not new for us with this project, said Matt Chapman, executive director of Grand Rapids WhiteWater. Its a complex project with lots of funding sources, lots of moving parts and a lot of approvals that are needed. The work was originally slated for this summer, but uncertainty in the timeline forced the city to put the project on pause. Chapman says the one final approval needed is a federal environmental review. This process has been the last hurdle in getting the project off the ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the city has been actively working with federal agencies, Chapman acknowledged that changes in Washington could be impacting the timeline. However, its unclear if the delay is directly related to any actions taken by the Trump administration. Commissioner cynical about latest rapid restoration plan Obviously, theres a lot going on in Washington, D.C. right now, Chapman said. Were working with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, which is an arm of the (United States Department of Agriculture), to continue this review. A spokesperson for the office of U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, said the congresswoman is working with the city and the USDA to solve the funding issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chapman says despite the setback, the city is closer than ever to starting this major project. Everything else from final designs to contract documents is ready to go. The plan is to resume the bidding process as soon as the approval comes through. Everything that the city of Grand Rapids and WhiteWater has to do with this project has been done, and so its really just a matter of getting through this last federal government process. And as soon as that comes in, we are ready to go back out and well work on getting contractors lined up and trying to get the work started as soon as possible, said Chapman. The in-channel work can only be done during a brief window between July and October. Chapman remains hopeful that if approvals come soon, they might still be able to break ground this summer. The in-channel work is the anchor project for the broader Grand River corridor revitalization, said a spokesperson for the city of Grand Rapids. While we await approvals, the city and its partners will continue with the myriad other projects along the Grand River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For now, the restoration project is paused, but the city says the vision of restoring the rapids remains a top priority. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Photo by Jim Small | Arizona Mirror Nearly eight months after the Arizona Supreme Court allowed unborn human being to be included in a description of the states abortion rights initiative, the court explained why it determined the phrase wasnt politically biased. In a 24-page opinion, Justice Kathryn King wrote that a Republican-controlled legislative panel didnt violate state law when it approved a summary of the Arizona Abortion Access Act that started off with a sentence that included the words unborn human being because it was simply quoting existing law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court ruled 5-2 to let the Republican-crafted language stand. The reference to unborn human being when describing current state law does not depart from or inaccurately describe the text of existing law or the proposed measure; does not contain extraneous adjectives, adverbs or commentary chosen by the (Legislative) Council; does not omit relevant contextual information; and does not selectively emphasize one omission in the initiative to the exclusion of others, King wrote. In this case, the Council recited the precise term used in existing law to illustrate the changes the Initiative would make if adopted. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX In a dissenting opinion, Justice Ann Scott Timmer wrote that quoting state law doesnt make the description impartial if the law being quoted was written to advance an ideological viewpoint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For instance, she wrote, lawmakers referring to a fetus as a sweet, innocent baby in state law wouldnt automatically make that term somehow neutral. Step back: GOP lawmakers and abortion advocates grapple over what to send to voters State law requires that the Legislative Council, a panel composed of lawmakers from both parties but controlled by the GOP majority, draft summaries of each ballot measure for a voter publicity pamphlet, which is meant to give Arizonans a quick rundown of what theyll be voting for in the next election. That same law mandates those summaries be impartial, and the courts have long held that language tinged with partisan coloring is unlawful. Last year, the panel, made up of eight Republicans and six Democrats, approved a description of the Arizona Abortion Access Act that included the phrase unborn human being in the first sentence. The Arizona for Abortion Access Committee quickly took the legislative panel to court, arguing that the summary should be thrown out and rewritten with unborn human being replaced by the neutral and medically accurate term fetus. In legal filings, Republicans claimed that unborn human being is impartial because its pulled directly from the 2022 law prohibiting abortions after 15 weeks that would be overturned if the initiative passed. While Arizona law demands impartiality in publicity pamphlet summaries, it also allows for a description of how proposed ballot measures might affect current laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Maricopa County Superior Court judge sided with the abortion rights group, writing that the term is packed with emotional and partisan meaning something that Arizona courts, including the states highest court, have long rejected. Less than a month later, the state Supreme Court overturned that ruling. Despite what abortion advocates viewed as an attempt from anti-abortion Republicans to put its thumb on the electoral scale, an overwhelming majority of Arizona voters cast their ballots in November in favor of Proposition 139, enshrining it in the Arizona Constitution and making the procedure a fundamental right. Whats the reasoning behind the high courts majority opinion? The courts majority Justices King, John Lopez, Bill Montgomery, Robert Brutinel and John Pelander agreed with Republicans that quoting existing law is as impartial as it gets, and fetus is just as loaded a term as unborn human being. Notably, King and Lopez were among the four justices who reinstated a near-total abortion ban from 1864 last year, and Montgomery faced criticism when he refused to recuse himself from the case in light of his past statements that Planned Parenthood was responsible for overseeing the greatest generational genocide known to man. The Arizona branch of Planned Parenthood was one of the main groups involved with the creation and advocacy for the abortion rights initiative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement King, writing for the majority, pointed out that the summary description for Prop. 139 began by accurately describing the 15-week law and ended by outlining the impacts of the ballot measure, and even used the propositions own language, including the terms fetus and fetal. On top of that, King wrote, another Arizona law recognizes a human being starting at conception and even widely accepted dictionary definitions refer to unborn human beings when explaining what a fetus is. (That law was also part of the legislation that enacted the 15-week abortion ban.) She chided abortion groups for fixating on the phrase and said the courts have historically been concerned with Legislative Council analyses that are biased or inaccurate, and not with whether a specific term, especially one that is already enshrined in state law, is appropriate. This Court has never found that an analysis violated the impartiality requirement where, as here, the Council used precise statutory language to describe existing law and then explained the text of the proposed measure and its effects, she wrote. Instead, this Court has concluded that analyses were not impartial where they departed from or inaccurately described the text of the existing law or the proposed measure or failed to include relevant contextual information. https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25878790-arizona-for-abortion-access-v-toma-abortion-publicity-language-supreme-court-opinion/ Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The justices also argued that Arizona law prefers the use of unborn human being over fetus because the latter might confuse voters. The law governing how to write publicity pamphlet summaries calls for clear and concise language that avoids technical terms. Fetus, according to the high courts majority, may be too difficult for Arizonans to understand, and the difference between it and unborn human being, the justices posited, is akin to the difference between myocardial infarction and heart attack. Put simply, (the law) recognizes that the use of non-technical terms where possible is more likely to assist voters with understanding and rationally assessing a proposed measure, in particular with voters who lack specialized training or expertise in a technical area, the majority concluded. King added that removing the phrase unborn human being would amount to the high court tipping the scales in favor of abortion rights groups. She argued that some voters might be swayed by the difference in language, and that lawmakers were trying to highlight the moral policy change that Prop. 139 was seeking to achieve. By accurately noting that existing statutory law describes a pregnancy as involving an unborn human being and then identifying that the Initiative proposes adding the terms fetus and fetal into the Arizona Constitution when creating a fundamental right to abortion, the Analysis provides background information about existing law and the measures proposed changes, King wrote. This approach impartially puts voters on notice of exactly what they are voting for or against. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By lobbying for replacing the phrase with fetus, the justices said that abortion groups were really trying to push for a description that would benefit their initiative. And thats unlawful, because Arizona state law expressly bars legislative council from taking a side. If fetus were used, the Council would have deviated from existing laws text and placed its thumb on the scale in favor of the Initiative under the guise of neutral terminology, the court ruled. Dissenters: merely quoting state law doesnt make something impartial Timmer, the courts chief justice, and Justice James Beene disagreed, arguing that waving away the phrase as nothing more than a direct quote ignores its partisan origins. Timmer wrote in the dissenting opinion that, even though the U.S. Supreme Court toppled Roe v. Wade and gave states the power to regulate abortion, the debate over the procedure continues to be as politically, morally, philosophically, and emotionally divisive as ever. And the central question in that debate is when, exactly, a pregnant woman is carrying an unborn human being. By inserting that phrase into the publicity pamphlet summary, Timmer said, the Legislative Council took a side in that argument. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also reminded the court that, while Arizona law demands impartiality from Legislative Council and its summaries, no such requirements exist for lawmakers. That means that a ballot measure summary which quotes a law also risks carrying with it any biased language or motives that were enshrined in that statute. Timmer lambasted the majority opinion for unhesitatingly accepting the phrase unborn human being as impartial simply because it was pulled from existing law and said it was a shaky foundation on which to approve legislative council summaries. To illustrate with a far-fetched example, if the legislature had used the term sweet, innocent baby in (the 2022 law), I doubt anyone would view that term as impartial if used in describing an abortion-related measure, although it would be accurate to say that the term is used in the statute, she wrote. Our job is to determine whether the analysis is impartial as required by (Arizona law), meaning we cannot rubberstamp language as impartial merely because the legislature used it in an affected statute. Courtesy Arizona Secretary of States Office But while the majority opinion clarified that it wasnt intended to set a precedent for automatically regarding every state statute as impartial, Montgomery conceded as much in a concurring opinion. Just because a phrase as colorful as sweet innocent baby is included in a hypothetical state law, he wrote, doesnt immediately render a Legislative Council description which quotes it biased. Instead, the court must look at the analysis as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, he concluded, simply because unborn human being has been a sticking point for advocates on both sides of the abortion debate, it doesnt mean that the summary of Prop. 139 should have been thrown out. The mere fact that the phrase might also be used in debates concerning the legal rights and statuses that ought to be afforded (or not) to human fetuses/unborn human beings does not render this use of the phrase partial, Montgomery wrote. In the dissenting opinion, Timmer and Beene criticized the Legislative Council summary for advancing a phrase that sought to sway voters and convince them, with alarming language right off the bat, that Prop. 139 directly conflicted with their moral interests. In starting the legislative analysis by using the term unborn human being when paraphrasing the statute that currently prohibits abortions after fifteen weeks gestation, the Council promoted that value judgement that a fetus is a human being, Timmer wrote. For that reason, I cannot find that the legislative analysis is impartial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Timmer also took issue with the claim that keeping unborn human being in the summary gave voters the opportunity to decide which term to back. Prop. 139, Timmer wrote, was never about what language Arizona should use. Word choice in Arizona law was not the issue in the Initiative, she said. Indisputably, the Initiative did not give voters the option of inserting the term unborn human being into Arizona law. King accused Timmer of failing to address the fact that fetus carries just as much partisan implication as unborn human being, and argued that only by including both terms could Legislative Council create a fully impartial analysis. But Timmer responded that the courts have never accepted cancelling out influence as a solution, and said that the justices are only responsible for identifying unlawful summaries. Theres no reason, she wrote, that the legislative council couldnt have avoided any impropriety by simply leaving both terms out. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The U.S. Air Force has used B-2A Spirit stealth bombers to attack Houthi targets in Yemen during the recent campaign against the rebel group, a U.S. official told The War Zone. That campaign began March 15 with a series of aviation and missile strikes against the Iranian-backed group. You can read more about the deployment of B-2s to the remote Indian Ocean island of Diego Garcia here. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss operational details, declined to say how many of these aircraft were used, how often or when. The confirmation however, provides more context about the collection of these jets on Diego Garcia. CNN was the first to report that B-2s from that island attacked the Houthis. Last week, a large force of B-2 Spirit bombers and other supporting assets deployed to Diego Garcia, which TWZ was first to report on. The latest satellite imagery, dated April 2, obtained by The War Zone from the Planet Labs archive shows at least six B-2s and six KC-135s on the remote island. PHOTO 2025 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION The unprecedented stealth bomber deployment comes amid growing U.S. threats to the regime in Tehran, as well as stepped-up strikes on their Houthi proxies in Yemen. The Air Force only has 20 of the stealth bombers in total, meaning 30 percent of the entire fleet is now forward-deployed in the Indian Ocean. Factoring in that only a portion of the B-2 fleet is available for operational tasking at any one time due to maintenance and other factors, this represents a far higher percentage of the bombers that the Air Force has to actually send out on missions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The B-2 is currently the only U.S. aircraft certified to operationally employ the 30,000-pound GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bunker buster bombs, and the Houthis have an extensive network of underground facilities that the MOP may be needed to strike. Each B-2 can carry two of these huge weapons. A B-2 Spirit stealth bomber dropping a 30,000-pound GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bunker buster bomb. (USAF) It is unknown if MOPS have actually been deployed against the Houthis, and the official we spoke with did not know. As we previously noted, the MOP itself provides a unique conventional weapon for prosecuting especially deep targets, such as ones associated with Irans nuclear and long-range missile programs. TWZ has previously highlighted the signals that B-2s, in particular, send to the regime in Tehran, including after the stealth bombers were used in strikes against the Houthis in Yemen last year. Despite the ongoing campaign against them, the Houthis have managed to shoot down several MQ-9 Reaper drones during this latest campaign and many more prior to it. While their air defenses may be rudimentary, they are still a threat. According to @JenGriffinFNC with Fox News, U.S. defense officials have confirmed that 3 MQ-9 Reaper surveillance and attack drones with the U.S. Air Force have been downed over the last month by the Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist group in Yemen, with the most recent shoot pic.twitter.com/DhEAxUrgLS OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) April 4, 2025 Losing a crewed aircraft over Houthi-controlled territory could be very problematic and put many other lives at risk during a recovery operation. This is why we have been seeing Navy fighters employ standoff munitions, especially AGM-154 JSOWs and AGM-84K SLAM-ERs against certain Houthi targets. Navy vessels have also been firing off Tomahawks, as well. With this in mind, the B-2s air defense penetrating capabilities, paired with their massive weapons load, could allow for large scale direct attacks on even the most well-defended and physically fortified Houthi sites. The total cost of the US militarys operation against the Houthis is nearing $1 billion in ~3 weeks. But Houthis still Houthi-ingearlier this week, they shot down another US MQ-9 Reaper dronethe second one shot down since the offensive began. https://t.co/bFZ2BkK4Rt Natasha Bertrand (@NatashaBertrand) April 4, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All this comes as the U.S. is building up forces in the region ahead of a potential strike against Iran. In addition to the B-2s, F-35s and A-10s have been surged to the region. The Vinson Aircraft Carrier Strike Group is also heading to the Middle East from the Pacific to join the Truman Carrier Strike Group, which saw its deployment extended. President Donald Trump has given Iran until May to come to the negotiating table in regards to its nuclear program, and the Iranians have given mixed signals about whether they will negotiate in person or through a third party or comply at all. You can read more about the prospects for war against Iran in our deep dive here. While there is no way of knowing what will happen next, now we know that the B-2s arrayed on Diego Garcia are not just there as a show of force, they are actively participating in the air campaign against the Houthis. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com Surrendering newborn babies may become easier if a bill that passed unanimously Thursday in the Florida House becomes law. HB 791, from Rep. Nan Cobb, R-Eustis, would authorize hospitals, EMS stations, and fire stations that are staffed 24 hours per day to use wall-mounted, temperature-controlled containers that safely accept and protect infants while notifying attendants. A similar bill was introduced in the 2023 Legislative Session but never made it out of committee. Last year. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill expanding the state's Safe Haven law to allow parents to anonymously surrender infants up to 30 days after birth without penalty, an increase from the previous seven, and to call 911 for EMS personnel to come get the child if transportation was not available. It also allowed a parent who has just given birth to surrender the child to medical staff at the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's how the devices work. What are Safe Haven baby boxes? In some locations around the country fire stations and hospitals have set up so-called "baby boxes," ventilated, climate-controlled incubators installed in an exterior wall with a locking door where a parent may anonymously and safely walk up and leave their child. An automatic alarm notifies staff inside the building that a baby is in there. There are over 320 baby boxes across 20 states, with more than half of them in Indiana, according to Indiana-based Safe Haven Baby Boxes. The boxes run about $15,000, according to an analysis of the bill, with a $500 annual fee and an estimated $5,000-$7,000 in additional fees depending on location. The bill does not require boxes built by a specific company. Surrended baby in Florida: St. Johns baby wasn't found in a box on side of the road; mother surrendered child Where are the Safe Haven baby boxes in Florida? Baby boxes have not yet been authorized by the state. A 2023 bill to allow them (SB 870) passed several committees but died after Democrats called it a "vendor bill" since currently only one manufacturer makes them, holds the patent, leases them, and charges a yearly fee. Critics, including the similarly named A Safe Haven for Newborns, said they were costly and ineffective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nonetheless, there are currently six in the state: Chiefland: Chiefland Fire Department, 16 NE 1st St, Chiefland Crystal River: Citrus County Fire Rescue, 800 N Rock Crusher Rd Newberry: Newberry Fire Station #28, 310 NW 250th St Ocala: MLK First Responder Campus, 505 NW MLK Jr. Ave Marion County Fire and Rescue, 1400 SW 6th Ave Spring Hill: Hernando County Fire Department, 3445 Bob Hartung Ct Ocala was the first Florida city to get a baby box in 2020 and the first to have a baby left there. Sometime around New Year's in 2023, a healthy baby girl was dropped off and later adopted by the firefighter who was on duty at the time. Are baby boxes legal? What happens to a baby in Florida after the parent has surrendered it? Fire stations and EMS personnel who accept surrendered infants must provide any needed emergency services and then take them to a hospital. If the child was surrendered after birth at the hospital, the mother's name is left off of the birth certificate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If there is evidence of abuse or neglect, the hospital will report it to the statewide central abuse hotline and a criminal investigation will be started. Otherwise, medical staff will contact either a local licensed child-placing agency or the statewide central abuse hotline for placement assistance. Any child surrendered is presumed eligible for Medicaid coverage. The parent is presumed to have given up all claims to the child. Anyone who has surrendered a child may reclaim the infant up until the time a court enters a judgment officially terminating their parental rights. Has the baby box been successful? How many babies are surrendered or abandoned in Florida? According to the nonprofit A Safe Haven for Newborns, there have been about 480 newborn babies surrendered or abandoned in Florida since the first Save Haven law was passed in 2000 under Gov. Jeb Bush. Roughly 415 infants were surrendered in a safe haven location, the organization said. There were 65 infants abandoned in unsafe places such as public restrooms or dumpsters, the nonprofit said. Only 32 of those babies survived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, 30 newborns were surrendered and one was abandoned, the report said. So far in 2025, four babies were surrendered. Police in Hollywood, Florida, arrested and charged two people in March last year after a construction worker found an infant dead in a dumpster in January. Last month, a dead baby was found in a trash can near a University of Tampa dorm. Nationwide, 4,835 babies were surrendered from 1999 to 2023, according to the National Safe Haven Alliance. 1,715 were abandoned illegally and only 642 of those survived. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Baby box bill passes Florida House. HB 791 is for infant surrender A babysitter in Kansas went to a child's room to prove that there was no "monster" hiding under the bed. While the babysitter was correct and did not find a monster, she did make a rather disturbing discovery. According to a statement from the Barton County Sheriff's Office last week, a babysitter was putting children to bed when one of the children complained that there was a monster under their bed. When the babysitter went to the bedroom to show the child that there was no monster under the bed, she soon came face-to-face with a male intruder who was hiding under the bed. After a brief altercation with the intruder, the suspect fled, knocking over the babysitter and one of the children in the altercation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The babysitter identified the intruder as Martin Villalobos Junior, who previously lived at the residence but he was required to stay away from the property as a result of a protection from abuse order issued against him. Deputies searched the area for the suspect but were unable to locate him. However, authorities were in the area the following morning when they saw him. When authorities saw Villalobos, he attempted to flee from law enforcement. However, after a short foot pursuit, the suspect was captured and arrested. Villalobos was booked on charges of aggravated kidnapping, aggravated burglary, aggravated battery, child endangerment, felony obstruction of a law enforcement officer, and violation of a protection from abuse order. He is being held in lieu of a $500,000 bond. Needless to say, that was not what the babysitter expected to find when she went to the room looking for a "monster." Ahoy! When the 2025 sailing season begins in May, passengers planning a trip aboard Michigans car ferry service from Ludington, Michigan, to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, can plan on new and enhanced food options. Passengers spending the four-hour trip playing bingo or sunning on deck can nosh on healthier options, including sandwiches and new, full-meal entree options, the boat's operator, Lake Michigan Carferry, announced. The car ferry S.S. Badger at dock in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, sails from Ludington, Michigan crossing across Lake Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, round trip daily May through Oct. We have listened to our passengers and are providing some new options to make their cruise an even more enjoyable experience, said Wesley Paggeot, Lake Michigan Carferry director of hospitality, in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aboard the historic, 410-foot, coal-powered steamship are three dining options: The Badger Galley, The Cabana Room, and the Upper Deck Cafe. The Badger Galley will continue to offer stadium-style concessions with the addition of healthier options in the form of salads, fruit and vegetable cups, and fresh sandwiches. Theres also an assortment of ice cream treats, according to a news release. The ship's Upper Deck Cafe is serving new menu wityh full meals, including items like baked chicken breast, beef tips and gravy, or meatloaf. Each meal comes with a choice of two sides or a one soup plus a soft drink. In the mornings there are still full breakfast offerings. The afternoon features hamburgers and other hot sandwiches. Badgers Cabana Room is where passengers can relax with new alchol and alcohol-free signature drinks from the bar or its coffee service featuring whole coffee beans ground fresh for each cup. The S.S. Badger travels from Ludington, Michigan across Lake Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, round trip daily May through Oct. For more than 70 years, the historic S.S. Badger has been a shortcut across Lake Michigan to Wisconsin and back. Originally used to move railroad freight cars, it's known as the largest passenger and car ferry service on the Great Lakes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accommodating 600 passengers and 180 vehicles, from cars to RVs to motorcycles and trucks, the S.S. Badger is a key shortcut across Lake Michigan. The ship, named a National Historic landmark in 2016, makes connects travelers from Michigan to Wisconsin in about four hours. Since S.S. Badgers 1992 re-birth, (it was out of commission for nearly two years undergoing renovations), the ship has transported millions of passengers. Amenities aboard the Badger include: Badger Bingo Shopping in the Boatique Staterooms Free movies Lounging indoor and out Open Deck for walking and fresh Air Board Games Museum Quiet areas Kid's activities include a scavenger hunt, coloring contest, movie theater, game room and play area Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reservations are now open for the Badger's 2025 sailing season which begins May 16 and runs through Oct. 12. Operating daily, the ship departs Ludington, Michigan at 9 a.m. Eastern Time, crosses into another time zone, and arrives in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, at noon Central Time. The ship departs Manitowoc at 2 p.m. Central Time and arrives in Ludington at 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Included in the 2025 sailing season are regular overnight crossings starting June 20 and through Sept. 1. Overnight sailings departing Ludington leave at 8:45 p.m. Eastern time, Thursday through Tuesday, and arrive in Manitowoc at 11:45 p.m. central time. Overnight sailings departing Manitowoc leave at 1:30 a.m. central time Friday through Wednesday and arrive in Ludington at 6:30 a.m. Eastern time. For information on tickets or times, go to ssbadger.com or call 800-841-4243, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. One-way tickets for adults 16 and up this spring start at $75. Contact Detroit Free Press food and restaurant writer Susan Selasky and send food and restaurant news and tips to: sselasky@freepress.com. Follow @SusanMariecooks on X. Subscribe to the Free Press. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: S.S. Badger ferry on Lake Michigan ups its food, drink offerings (WSYR-TV) Have you ever considered what memorable things you may want leave behind? For one CNY woman, her legacy will live on forever with a special gift that will keep on giving for years to come. Rosemary Bucci made a lot of contributions to her home community of Baldwinsville throughout her life, and left one last gift before her death in 2022. Tom Griffith of the Central New York Community Foundation joined Bridge Street to share details on her legacy donation with the mission to support charitable organizations in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before Rosemary Bucci passed away in July 2022, she named the Central New York Community Foundation the recipient of over a $1.5 million bequest to create the Bucci-Deserio Family Foundation. The legacy fund will support charitable organizations in the Village of Baldwinsville and Towns of Van Buren and Lysander. Learn more about the Central New York Community Foundation at CNYCF.org. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR. A Regions Bank employee in Smyrna, Ga., was accused of stealing money from an elderly customer through ATM withdrawals between October and November 2024, reports WSB-TV, citing an arrest warrant. Stephanie Rose Kilbert was charged with exploiting an elderly or disabled person and theft, according to court records viewed by PEOPLE. Kilbert, who was an employee at Regions Bank at the time, was allegedly assisting an elderly customer who was a regular customer of the Smyrna branch. She allegedly withdrew $8,000 from the victims account without his knowledge. She made multiple transactions between Oct. 3 and Nov. 4, 2024, WSB-TV reports, citing a Cobb County arrest warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Regions Bank representative confirmed with PEOPLE that Kilbert was terminated from her position in February and that the customer was credited for all reported transactions. Rest assured, we have zero tolerance for the type of behavior alleged in this case. Our investigators have strong relationships with law enforcement, and we are committed to helping bring this matter to justice, the representative said. Related: How U.S. Postal Worker Stole $1.6 Million in Tax Return Checks to Fund Trips to Strip Clubs, Luxury Travel to Bali Resort Google Maps Regions Bank in Smyrna, GA Regions Bank in Smyrna, GA On Tuesday, April 2, Judge Brendan Murphy set a $15,000 bond for Kilbert. 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. A representative for Cobb County Police did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for more information on Thursday, April 3. Read the original article on People Former President Barack Obama and former Vice President Kamala Harris, in separate remarks on Thursday, criticized President Donald Trump and the White House for moves that they called unconstitutional or contributing to an erosion of the country's values. Neither Obama or Harris have spoken much publicly since Election Day in 2024. Obama, in a speech at Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, on Thursday, criticized the second Trump administration for levying new tariffs, for threats against universities and law firms, and for what he framed as upending the international order, according to a transcript of his remarks provided by a spokesperson and shared on Obama's Medium profile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Trump tariffs live updates: Nintendo delays Switch 2 preorders because of Trump tariffs "Look, I don't think what we just witnessed in terms of economic policy and tariffs is going to be good for America, but that's a specific policy. I'm more deeply concerned with a federal government that threatens universities if they don't give up students who are exercising their right to free speech," Obama said during a discussion on how he feels the values of the United States have "eroded." Obama added, "I am more troubled by the idea that a White House can say to law firms, 'If you represent parties that we don't like, we're going to pull all our business or bar you from representing people effectively.' That kind of behavior is contrary to the basic compact we have as Americans." PHOTO: Former President Barack Obama addresses the Obama Foundation's 2024 Democracy Forum, Dec. 5, 2024, in Chicago. (Scott Olson/Getty Images) The White House has defended actions toward universities as holding them accountable for their responses to antisemitism or other issues, and has said executive actions against law firms are meant to bolster national security or to stop work detrimental to the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Trump administration reviewing alleged antisemitism at Harvard University Obama added that if he had threatened law firms or made moves similar to the second Trump administration, he would not have been tolerated, and said that he wasn't discussing this from a "partisan basis." "This has to do with something more precious, which is who are we as a country and what values do we stand for ... I think people tend to think, 'oh, democracy, rule of law, independent judiciary, freedom of the press,'" he said. "That's all abstract stuff because it's not affecting the price of eggs. Well, you know what? It's about to affect the price of eggs." He also criticized the Trump administration on foreign policy, and for striking against what Obama called the "rules-based system" of alliances and trade abroad, calling out the White House's stated aim of getting control of Greenland for the sake of national security. PHOTO: President Donald Trump steps off Air Force One upon arrival at Palm Beach International Airport in West Palm Beach, Florida on April 3, 2025. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) MORE: Judges temporarily block Trump orders targeting Jenner and Block, WilmerHale law firms Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And this is an important moment, because in the last two months, we have seen a U.S. government actively try to destroy that order and discredit it," Obama said, according to the transcript. "And the thinking, I gather, is that somehow, since we are the strongest, we're going to be better off if we can just bully people into doing whatever we want, and dictate the terms of trade all the time, and if we see a piece of land, be like, 'who's going to stop us? Greenland looks good.'" Harris, speaking on Thursday at the Leading Women Defined Summit in California, framed actions by the White House as unconstitutional and said they are contributing to a "sense of fear," according to video of her remarks provided by the Leading Women Defined Foundation to ABC News. Harris said "we are in the midst of seeing progress being rolled back." PHOTO: Former Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at the Leading Women Defined Summit at the Ritz-Carlton, April 3, 2025, in Dana Point, Calif. (Juliana Yamada/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) "What has changed is that there is a sense of fear that has been taking hold in our country, and I understand it," Harris said. "But we're seeing people stay quiet. We are seeing organizations stay quiet. We are seeing those who are capitulating to clearly unconstitutional threats, and these are the things that we are witnessing each day in these last few months in our country." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Longtime Harris supporters torn on possible 2028 presidential run "And it understandably creates a great sense of fear. Because, you know, there were many things that we knew would happen, many things -- I'm not here to say 'I told you so,'" Harris said to laughter and cheers. She added after, "I swore I wasn't gonna say that." But Harris separately also framed showing courage as being able to galvanize others. "Fear has a way of being contagious Courage is also contagious. When one person, when a few, stand with the courage that is the courage exhibited by the leaders in this room every day, to stand, to have the courage to say, 'I feel fear,' the courage to say, 'what is happening is wrong,' the courage to say that there is a way that we must chart to get through this -- understanding our power in the democracy we still have if we hold on to it," Harris said. "Courage is contagious." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris, who is considering a California gubernatorial bid, according to sources, did not say anything about her future plans. In response to a request for comment from ABC News on Obama's and Harris's remarks, White House spokesman Kush Desai wrote, "During her time in office, Kamala Harris presided over the weaponization of our justice system against political opponents, the coercion of social media companies to censor free speech, and the wholesale destruction of our country's economy and borders. "Neither she nor Barack Obama, who wrote off worker layoffs by saying 'some of those jobs of the past are just not going to come back', are in any position to weigh in on the merits or constitutionality of the Trump administration's historic action to put Americans and America First," he added. ABC News' Averi Harper and Kelsey Walsh contributed to this report. Barack Obama, Kamala Harris criticize Trump, White House over moves they say are against America's values originally appeared on abcnews.go.com COLLEGE STATION, Texas (FOX 44) A barricaded subject who was holding a woman hostage has been apprehended by College Station Police. The department received reports early Friday morning regarding a barricaded subject in the 1800 block of Potomac. Patrol, the public information officer, the SWAT Team, the Hostage Negotiation Team (HNT), K9s and drones responded to the scene. The public was urged to avoid this area. Police issued an update before 10 a.m. saying this started as a welfare concern. Multiple third party callers contacted dispatch to report a man was holding a woman hostage in one of the units. A perimeter was set on scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contact was established with the victim, and police helped her escape the residence. They also discovered the suspect had fallen asleep on the bed, and the knife used to hold her hostage was lying next to him. Hewitt Shooting Leaves One Dead, One in Custody Police say multiple attempts to contact the suspect were unsuccessful with patrol and the HNT. SWAT entered the residence and found the suspect hiding under a kitchen sink cabinet, where he was taken into custody without further incident. (Courtesy: College Station Police Department) (Courtesy: College Station Police Department) Jose Nuno has been charged with Burglary of a Habitation with Intent to Commit Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon a first-degree felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. North Macedonia's discussions in Baku will focus on the possibility of securing long-term gas supply agreements with Azerbaijan, North Macedonian Minister of Energy, Mining and Minerals Sanja Bozinovska said in an exclusive interview with Trend on the occasion of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Councils meeting in Baku.. She announced that at the upcoming Advisory Council meeting on the Southern Gas Corridor, North Macedonia will reaffirm its commitment to becoming a more competitive and stable part of the regional energy market while positioning itself as an active participant in shaping the regions future energy supply. The country will outline concrete positions and initiatives aimed at improving energy connectivity, enhancing the security of natural gas supply, and supporting the green transition process. Discussions will focus on the possibility of securing long-term gas supply agreements with Azerbaijan through the TAP pipeline and alternative routes within the Southern Gas Corridor, as well as ensuring stable and competitive prices. Additionally, the strategic importance of the gas interconnector with Greece will be emphasized, as it will provide access to diverse gas sources, including LNG from Alexandroupolis and Azerbaijani gas from TAP. North Macedonia will reiterate its commitment to completing this project and seek support for its operational implementation, said the minister. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The Baton Rouge Police Department has made an arrest in a shooting that killed a man on Tuesday, April 1. Police were called to the 10000 block of Avenue E around 7:45 p.m. regarding a robbery. BRPD said James Williams, 80, died at the scene. On Friday, police announced Daniel Westley, 39, had been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and illegal use of weapons. Westley has an extensive criminal history that includes a homicide and a kidnapping, BRPD spokesperson Lt. LJean McKneely said. Williams was shot and killed on his porch Police said Williams was found deceased on his porch with a gunshot wound to the head. During the investigation, detectives learned that he hung out with other older neighbors and was known to sell marijuana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One witness, returning from a store, heard a single gunshot and later found Williams dead. Community tips lead to Westleys arrest According to arrest documents, witnesses said the suspect fled in a silver or black car toward Mills Avenue. Investigators developed Westley as a suspect through police databases and anonymous tips. Police said surveillance video showed a silver Honda Accord with a dark gray hood, driver-side fender and door arriving at the victims residence. The video captured an individual in a white shirt, blue jeans and white shoes approaching the victims house. A single gunshot is heard, and the suspect is seen running back to the vehicle before fleeing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police learned Westley owned a 2012 Honda Accord matching the description in the video. Arrest documents said Westley was already in custody due to an Order of Protective Custody issued that morning by the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriffs Office. When officers found him, he was wearing the same clothing as seen in the surveillance footage. Police collected his clothing as evidence at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital. Westley was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. The shooting is still under investigation. Baton Rouge Police investigating 2 deadly Tuesday evening shootings Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A Baton Rouge woman was sentenced to life in connection with a 2022 shooting death. According to court records, Jermyne Lewis withdrew her former plea of not guilty and pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. Markeisha Stone, 33, died from her injuries at a hospital after she was shot at an apartment complex on Jefferson Highway in October 2022. Lewis and Dewayne Barfield, both 18, were identified as suspects and charged with second-degree murder in the case. Barfield pleaded not guilty in February 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baton Rouge man charged in deaths of pregnant girlfriend, child pleads guilty Latest News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. We dive into the controversial decision surrounding the Chagos Islands, with Donald Trump reportedly signing off on a deal to return them to Mauritius. Venetia Rainey sits down with Associate Political Editor Tony Diver to discuss the potential security implications for the UK, US, and Asia, and why Trump might have suddenly backed this move. We also explore the possibility of Trump serving a third term, as political expert Bruce Peabody breaks down the legal options that could make it feasible. He outlines six scenarios that have been around for decades and explains why Trumps camp are not the first to hint at such a move. Battle Lines, a podcast from The Telegraph, combines on-the-ground reporting with analytical expertise to help the listener to better understand the course of world politics, wars and tensions, as fault lines grind and slip in an increasingly dangerous and confusing multipolar world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Listen to Battle Lines using the audio player in this article or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favourite podcast app. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Some local residents will soon take to the polls to choose their elected officials. Mexico Beach will select council member 2. Incumbents for Mayor and ward 3 did not draw opposition meaning they win automatically. Panama City is electing a Mayor and commissioners for wards 1 and 4. Lynn Haven voters will decide commissioner seats 3 and 4. In Parker, the Mayor, as well as the ward 1 and ward 3 council members all win without opposition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holmes County Jail seeks funds for expansion project Bay County supervisor of elections Nina Ward says some citys will offer early voting, and some wont. Lynn Haven, City Hall, there will be early voting there and then Panama City City Hall, early voting there as well. So early voting for those two cities will be Monday through Friday, the 14th through the 18th, and thats 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. And then on Election Day, April, 22nd, voters have to go to their assigned location, Ward said. Polls will be open 7am to 7pm. Ward says while the deadline to register to vote has passed. If you need to update your information such as your address, you can do that by phone or on the supervisor of elections website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turnout is typically, you know, lower for the city elections. But really, these elections are so important. They affect our daily lives. So I would encourage anybody in those city limits of those three cities, which is about 40,000 people that are eligible to vote, please get out, get your voice heard. This is your opportunity, Ward said. The deadline to request a mail in ballot is April 10th. Holmes County Sheriffs Office takes charge of Emergency Medical Services Out of the 1900 requested mail in ballots 730 have already been returned to Wards office. Ward reminders voters to bring a photo ID and a form of Florida identification with your signature. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Ludwig Burger and Brendan Pierson (Reuters) -Bayer said on Friday it was again petitioning the U.S. Supreme Court to sharply limit legal claims that its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer, seeking to avoid potentially billions of dollars in damages. Bayer said in its petition that consumers should not be able to sue it under state law for failing to warn that Roundup increases cancer risk because the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has found no such risk and requires no such warning. In fact, it argued, federal law does not allow it to add any warning to the product beyond the EPA-approved label. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company tried to make that case to the Supreme Court and was rebuffed in 2022, but a federal appeals court has since agreed with the company in a split from other appeals courts. The Supreme Court is generally more likely to take cases where federal appeals courts are divided. A Supreme Court victory for Bayer would likely make it much more difficult for the lawsuits to continue, though it is not clear whether it would eliminate them entirely. Friday's petition came in the case of John Durnell, who in 2023 won a $1.25-million verdict in a St. Louis, Missouri state court. Bayer has been hit with much larger verdicts over Roundup, most recently a $2.1-billion award last month to a plaintiff in Georgia. The company has paid about $10 billion to settle claims that Roundup, based on the herbicide glyphosate, causes cancer. About 67,000 further cases are pending, for which the group has set aside $5.9 billion in legal provisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CEO Bill Anderson has struggled to revive a share price that has plunged by more than 70% since Bayer's $63-billion acquisition of Monsanto in 2018 that saddled it with costly litigation and debt. The company's problems include the glyphosate litigation, a 2023 development setback for its most promising experimental medicine, weak agriculture markets and pressure from some investors to separate or sell businesses.Bayer plans to seek shareholder approval to raise equity capital worth close to 35% of its outstanding shares over the next three years to cover possible costs of U.S. litigation. The company has warned U.S. lawmakers it could stop selling Roundup, which is widely used by U.S. farmers, unless they can strengthen legal protection against the litigation. It has already replaced glyphosate with other ingredients in the home consumer version of Roundup. (Reporting by Ludwig Burger and Brendan PiersonEditing by Rod Nickel) BEAUFORT COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) April is Child Abuse Awareness Month and businesses across Eastern North Carolina are joining forces to spread the word and prevent child abuse and neglect. Pinwheels for Prevention, and wearing the color blue, are ways to showcase child abuse awareness and prevention. Blue pinwheels were planted in the ground at the Department of Social Services, showing the bright future children should be able to have. Statistics show that in North Carolina, child abuse reports are more than 100,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here in Beaufort, North Carolina D-S-S, we currently provide care and support for 113 children in their custody and the governors website showed that over 115,000 reports of investigated possible child abuse and neglect are found in North Carolina annually, Fallon Chavis with DSS Beaufort County said. A lot of kids kind of hide it, you know? So going and talking to the schools about what making a report looks like, just raising awareness in that sense, Riley Franklin with DSS Beaufort County said. The month is about getting the message out and informing people about what child abuse looks like. To make a Child Protective Services report, call DSS during their business hours. Afterhours calls can be made to the sheriffs office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) A New Bedford teen is in need of a new kidney after he was diagnosed with stage 5 chronic kidney disease. Michael Blechar-Melancon said he ignored his symptoms for years, continuing to work instead. That all changed when he got a diagnosis in December. His mom, Amanda DaSilva, described the situation as a nightmare. Michael is a wonderful young man and has his whole life ahead of him. He just graduated, he just started to become a young man, she told 12 News. I want him to live. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ALSO READ: Rhode Island doctor deported despite having work visa The 19-year-old now undergoes daily dialysis which can take anywhere from 8 to 11 hours. His family has converted an area in their house into a makeshift hospital room for Michaels treatments. DaSilva also left her job to care for her son. I want him to be able to be a man and go back to work and live halfway normal, she said. Right now, Michael is on Rhode Islands transplant list, and he is waiting to go on another one in Massachusetts too. His family said it may take four to six years for Michael to get a kidney, but he needs one now. So, the family is asking the public for help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I cant bury my son, DaSilva said. I just cant. If you are interested in finding out whether you could be a donor match for Michael, you can contact Rhode Island Hospitals Transplant Coordinator at (401) 444-3091. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. An unprecedented loss of honeybees over the winter has put staple crops at risk in the coming season. The uncertain cause of this mass die-off has left beekeepers and farmers bewildered and facing a shortage of 300,000 to 500,000 hives, per the San Francisco Chronicle. What's happening? A survey of beekeepers across the United States by "Project Apis m." found that a "catastrophic" 1.1 million colonies were lost between last June and last month. Zac Browning, a commercial beekeeper, described the scale of the losses as "completely unsustainable" and said if the losses continue, "we simply won't be able to sustain current food production." On average, commercial beekeepers lost 62% of their bees, far past the industry's "breaking point" of 50%, per the Chronicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blake Shook, owner of Desert Creek Honey in Texas, told the Chronicle: "Once we get to 70% to 80%, you can't recoup your numbers anymore. It's a scary place, and we should be worried about national food security." Why are declining bee populations concerning? Honeybees play a critical role in food production as pollinators for 130 crops in the U.S. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, they pollinate $15 billion worth of crops each year. According to the Chronicle, one of the most vulnerable crops to depleted stocks of bees is almonds one of California's most profitable crops. The Golden State produces 82% of the world's almond supply, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. Honeybees face several threats, which experts typically classify as the "four P's": pesticides, parasites, pathogens, and poor nutrition, per the Chronicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commercial pesticides can be highly toxic to bees and are linked to a host of other health and ecological problems. Parasites like the small hive beetle can also inflict immense damage to a hive, while pathogens like the American foulbrood can wipe out entire colonies. Finally, poor hive nutrition makes all of the aforementioned afflictions all the worse. What's being done about falling bee populations? The dangers of pesticides to bees can be mitigated in multiple ways. The University of Georgia's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences offers a few suggestions. One is timing; bees forage during the day, so applying pesticides in the evening will mitigate losses. Do you worry about air pollution in your town? All the time Often Only sometimes Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Another is using less toxic, rapidly degrading pesticides. There's also the placement of the apiaries to consider; the university recommends they should be at least 4 miles from crops being treated with pesticides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the individual level, opting for natural, chemical-free pest control and choosing native plants for your yard are two ways to help sustain bee populations. Gaining a stronger understanding of the critical environmental issues is another way to ensure your everyday activities aren't unintentionally contributing to the loss of crucial creatures like bees. 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. Editors note: This story was updated on April 4 after Bechdel resigned from the board. A Bellefonte Area School District board member was arrested Wednesday after allegedly striking a woman in the face and shoving her out of a moving car. Jack Bechdel, 58, was charged with one misdemeanor count of simple assault and one summary count of physical harassment. He was also cited for driving with a suspended license. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to an affidavit of probable cause, the woman told State College police Bechdel began arguing with her about her drinking habits after he had driven her to the Sheetz along Shiloh Road in College Township. She told police Bechdel reached across the car, opened the passenger door while the vehicle was still in motion and shoved her out along the road. The woman said that her ankle had been run over after being shoved out of the vehicle by Bechdel, the affidavit reads. After Bechdel drove the woman home, she told police he struck her on the left side of her face with a backhanded, closed-fist swing because she would not get out of the vehicle. Bechdel then shoved her out of the car into her driveway and drove away, she said. The woman reported injuries to her nose and foot and said she was run over by a vehicle. The officer saw noticeable bruising and swelling under her left eye and blood on her hands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police located Bechdel at Lowes in Patton Township, where his parked car was unattended. Inside the store, police said Bechdel admitted to striking the woman in the face and described the strike exactly as she did, according to the affidavit. Bechdel claimed he struck the woman only because she struck him first on the right side of his face and mouth while driving, police said. The officer wrote he did not observe visible injuries to the face of Bechdel, who said his front tooth was knocked loose by the woman. The officer observed a loose tooth at the front of Bechdels mouth but noted most of his teeth were already rotted or missing. Bechdel was arraigned Thursday morning by District Judge Allen Sinclair and later released on $10,000 unsecured bail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 9. Bechdel, who resigned from the board Friday evening, won election to the Bellefonte school board in 2021 and was in the final year of his term. He is one of five candidates who filed to run for election to the board this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jon Guizar, the Bellefonte school board president, said Thursday that Bechdel informed the board of a personal matter involving law enforcement and planned to take time to reflect on the matter. While the allegations against Mr. Bechdel are of great concern to the Board, I can report that he has submitted his resignation to the Board of Directors, Guizar wrote in an email Friday evening. Bechdels name will remain on the May primary ballot, as the deadline to withdraw (March 26) has passed. He told the Centre Daily Times he highly doubts he would win in the primary but would have until August to decide whether to withdraw from Novembers ballot. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Given the importance of diversification and energy security for the Western Balkans, North Macedonia will propose exploring the creation of a regional coordination platform for gas supply among Southeast European countries, North Macedonian Minister of Energy, Mining and Minerals Sanja Bozinovska said in an exclusive interview with Trend on the occasion of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Councils meeting in Baku. This initiative aims to enhance regional energy security and optimize transportation and supply capacities through better synchronization of infrastructure projects. North Macedonia will advocate for the implementation of projects that enable greater gas utilization, both in electricity production and across industrial and residential sectors, she said. The minister noted that North Macedonia recognizes the Southern Gas Corridor as a strategically significant initiative for ensuring energy security, stability, and diversification of natural gas supply in Europe. As a country actively expanding its gas infrastructure and integrating with regional and European gas networks, North Macedonia has a clear vision for supporting the continued development of this initiative. Through infrastructure investments, long-term agreements, regional cooperation, and support for the energy transition, the country aims to contribute to the creation of a stable, secure, and sustainable energy market in the interest of both the region and the broader European community, said Bozinovska. Apr. 3MADISON The Bemidji High School Model United Nations team placed fifth among small delegations during the Wisconsin High School Model United Nations conference, which took place between Thursday, March 20 and Friday, March 21, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The conference is the largest and longest-running of its kind in the state of Wisconsin. The two-day conference featured roughly 500 students from 35 different schools. Teams were divided based on team size. Those with 14 or fewer were among the small delegations and those with 15 or more students were among the large delegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bemidji student Ray Weber earned a personal honor during the conference when she secured a top award for her place on the European Union council. "(The outcome is) an impressive accomplishment for a rookie team," said Bemidji Middle School social studies teacher and Model UN mentor David Benson. "The students were immersed into the diplomacy and debate of the United Nations for two full days. Our students all seemed to have a great experience, and they really thrived." The Bemidji Model UN team was given a donation from the Bemidji Eagles Club to make the trip affordable for each student. Bemidji's Model UN team will host one more meeting before the school year concludes to discuss its performance during the conference and plan for the future. NEW BERLIN - A 20-year New Berlin police veteran allegedly took narcotic drugs stored for the department's K9 training program, resulting a felony misconduct charge Wednesday amid his ongoing suspension. In addition, Sgt. Steven Dodson, 45, who's been on administrative leave since December, was arrested for suspected drunken driving Tuesday while in possession of his gun, and will face an additional charge of having a firearm while intoxicated, a misdemeanor count. The New Berlin Police Department spelled out both allegations in a news release Thursday afternoon that for the first time revealed an 11-month investigation in 2024 stemming from the drug theft. But the criminal complaint filed Wednesday in Waukesha County Circuit Court provided more details, including what drugs were taken and why Dodson was suspected during that investigation. Waukesha police lead investigation into New Berlin theft According to the complaint: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The drugs 28 grams each of black tar heroin, cocaine base, cocaine HCI and heroin HCI, plus 14 grams of methamphetamine were discovered missing on May 7, 2024, from a secure storage area. Those narcotics, issued by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration in September 2022, were used in the training of police dogs, in this case New Berlin's K9 program run by another officer and a separate dog handler. The DEA-issued drugs had last been used for training in November 2023. After the drugs were discovered missing, New Berlin authorities asked the Waukesha Police Department to conduct an impartial investigation into the theft. Surveillance tools showed Dodson as having been near the property room where the drugs were stored 12 times between December 2023 and April 2024. New Berlin police officials said it's an area which Dodson had no authorized reason to access. New Berlin police also suspected Dodson as a result of an incident in Mukwonago, where he lives. Police and rescuers found Dodson unconscious inside his vehicle on East Wolf Run Road after an apparent drug overdose in August 2023, forcing them to administer Narcan to revive him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through a review of medical records, investigators said they found evidence that Dodson had been taking excess amounts of Vicodin and Gabapentin beyond what had been prescribed for back pain and may have obtained painkiller drugs that were laced with cocaine and fentanyl. The investigation also showed his inability to fill Gabapentin refills coincided with the period between November 2023 and April 2024 when the DEA-issued drugs were believed to have been taken. Dodson was placed on administrative leave in December following the 11-month investigation. Dodson charged in separate incidents It's not clear why the criminal charges were filed more than three months after the investigation concluded, and what role the drunken driving-related incident played in the timing. Dodson made his first appearance Wednesday on the misconduct in public office count. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A separate criminal complaint focused on the April 1 incident, in which Dodson's pickup truck was found stuck in a ditch near Interstate 43 and Racine Avenue at 2:20 a.m. The truck had front-end damage, which authorities believe was tied to a hit-and-run accident earlier that evening involving a traffic pole in West Allis. According to the complaint, Dodson was unable to stand on his own and failed sobriety tests. His gun was found loaded in the center console of his truck. If convicted on the public office misconduct count, he could face as much as a 3-year prison term and a $10,000 fine. Because the intoxicated gun possession charge was a separate incident, he could face additional penalties if convicted. New Berlin police issue statement acknowledging public concerns In a statement included in the news release, the New Berlin Police Department said it was "saddened" by the alleged incidents and is still processing their impact. "It is vital the public understands the NBPD takes allegations of this kind seriously and will hold officers accountable if they are found to have violated Department Rules or state law," the department said in the statement. "We also respect that Sgt. Dodson is allowed due process both as a criminal defendant and as an employee of the City of New Berlin. We request that the public respects his rights and has patience while the process plays out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We recognize the disappointment this case may cause our officers and community members," department officials added. "Let us be unequivocal this is not who we are. The officers of the NBPD remain dedicated to serving this community with honor and professionalism, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that trust is restored and maintained." Dodson's attorney, listed as Michael Steinle, in online court records, was not immediately available to comment late Thursday. Dodson is currently free on a $1,500 cash bond. Contact reporter Jim Riccioli at james.riccioli@jrn.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: New Berlin cop charged with public misconduct in K9 drug theft NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT) Law enforcement officers with the New Bern Police Department arrested a man Friday morning for his connection to a shooting that occurred in March. Officers were called to Third Avenue on March 26, where they found 18 year old Sannarious Morris. Morris was taken to ECU Health for treatment of the bullet wound he had in his back. After investigating, 20 year old Saillen Hatter was labeled as a suspect by detectives. Hatter was arrested Friday and charged with assault with a deadly weapon, with intent to kill, inflicting serious injury. He was taken to the Craven County Jail and placed without bond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. Donald Trump's attacks against Big Law firms have drawn three lawsuits. A few other firms settled. 504 law firms asked the courts to put a stop to it. But from Kirkland & Ellis to Paul Hastings, the highest-earning firms in Big Law declined to join. More than 500 law firms including some of the country's most prominent signed onto a legal brief Friday to oppose Donald Trump's executive orders attacking law firms that hired his political enemies. Absent from the list, however, were America's 27 highest-grossing law firms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From Kirkland & Ellis, which reported $8.8 billion in revenue last year and has about 3,800 lawyers, to Paul Hastings, with more than $2 billion in revenue, corporate America's legal team was largely silent. The 27 firms that didn't sign collectively brought in over $74 billion in revenue last year. They are: Kirkland, Latham, DLA Piper Baker McKenzie, Skadden, Sidley, Gibson Dunn, Ropes & Gray, White & Case, Morgan Lewis, Hogan Lovells, Jones Day, Simpson Thacher, Greenberg Traurig, Norton Rose, Goodwin Procter, King & Spalding, Quinn Emanuel, Cooley, Davis Polk, Paul Weiss, McDermott, Mayer Brown, Sullivan & Cromwell, Holland & Knight, Weil, and Paul Hastings. "The largest law firms are extraordinarily powerful, and in this instance, that power actually cripples them. I'm disappointed that they didn't join," said Nathan Eimer, one of the lawyers who wrote the brief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The above 27 firms did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider about why they didn't sign onto the brief. The brief was filed in support of Perkins Coie, a law firm whose attorneys Trump effectively deemed a national security threat in an executive order that barred them from federal buildings, stripped them of security clearances, and required government contractors to disclose whether they used the firm. Several former partners at Perkins Coie represented some of Trump's political adversaries, but most of the firm's political lawyers have left. Some big firms did sign on to the brief, as did some top class-action lawyers and trial lawyers who often represent plaintiffs suing big corporations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US arm of Freshfields, a UK-founded corporate law firm that last year was reported to do about 20% of its business in the United States, signed the brief. Arnold & Porter, a big DC-based firm that represented federal workers accused of being communists during the "Red Scare" of the 1950s, also included its name. Arnold & Porter was one of eight firms among the country's 100 highest-earning that signed, according to Law.com. Other firms targeted by Trump's orders rallied behind Perkins. Covington & Burling, which gave legal advice to a prosecutor who went after Trump, as well as WilmerHale and Jenner & Block, which have sued the Trump administration over executive orders that targeted them, all put their names on the brief. But the lack of America's largest firms was frustrating, said Eimer, who told Business Insider he didn't know whose names would be included until shortly before the legal papers were filed because the process was treated with extreme confidentiality. "I understand, from the management side, why they feel that jeopardizing their business is their overriding concern. But in my view, at the end of the day, lawyers have an obligation to the courts," he said, "and the constitution that overrides our business interest." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Law firms, including Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom, Milbank, and Willkie Farr & Gallagher, have cut deals with the Trump administration to collectively devote hundreds of millions of dollars worth of lawyers' time to causes that dovetail with the president's interests like veterans' rights and fighting antisemitism. Bloomberg reported the conservative group The Oversight Project wrote a letter to law firms asking them to donate up to $10 million of legal advice to it and other "center-right" groups to help satisfy their commitments. The first firm to cut a deal with the Trump administration was Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison, whose chairman, Brad Karp, and senior lawyers are known for being political progressives. Karp defended the agreement with the Trump administration in an email sent to the firm late last month, saying that competing law firms immediately started trying to poach Paul Weiss clients and attorneys. "The resolution we reached with the Administration will have no effect on our work and our shared culture and values," Karp wrote. Paul Weiss's name is not on the brief. Read the original article on Business Insider EASTLAND COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) With roofs blown off and windows busted out, many Eastland County residents were cleaning up the damage from the overnight storm. Big Country expected to see another round of storms Thursday night Debbie Wharton is a longtime resident who owns the Lumber Yard event center. On Thursday morning, she told KTAB/KRBC that driving into town was a shocking sight. So about 6:00, were about to lose electricity. It was hailing and raining, and the wind was really blowing, Wharton said. I couldnt believe the roofs that were gone, the trees that were down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the storm left minimal damage to her business, for which she is grateful. We have roofs from neighboring buildings in our facility, a lot of broken patio furniture and trees, but not anything major, nothing we cant take care of, Wharton said. Storms forecasted overnight in Big Country from stationary front At the historic Country Cowboy Church, Pastor Randy Parsons said he received the call that the storm had hit the 105-year-old building. Sometime during the night, it looked like maybe a tornado or something came through. David was a member of the church, called, and said come over. We looked at it and just started cleaning up a big mess. Big mess, Parsons said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members and volunteers showed up to cut branches, seal holes, and board windows at the church. Parsons said the damages around the church were just as bad or worse. I came from Breckenridge, and theres a lot of damage between Morton Valley and here. So a lot of damage. So a lot of trees, telephone poles, all kinds of stuff were torn up and broken, Parsons said. Cisco ISD Announces Delayed Start Due to Power Outage Wharton said above everything, she is grateful for the community helping one another. We have the best community. Everyone comes together. They say something happened, and I had people calling me before I even got to work saying, What do we need to do to help out?' Wharton said. The airport also suffered damage, leaving it closed for at least four to five days. Many parts of Eastland County, including the high school, went without power, causing a delayed start to school on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. (Getty Images) A mental health clinic at UNLV that provides care to populations that have difficulty accessing help, and turns out trained mental health providers in the process, is operating on a shoe string and is unsustainable, says its executive director. A bill before state lawmakers seeks to increase Medicaid funding for patients treated at university clinics in Nevada, and help alleviate the mental health provider shortage in the process, supporters say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know that we are serious about improving access to mental health care in Nevada, and we must be equally serious about how we train and sustain the professionals who provide it, Dr. Michelle Paul, executive director of UNLV Partnership for Research, Assessment, Counseling, Therapy and Innovative Clinical Education (PRACTICE) told lawmakers last week. I wont overemphasize the point. I think everyone knows Nevada ranks among the lowest in the nation for access to quality mental health care. Were last for child mental health and the current workforce supply cannot meet the demand. University-based training clinics play a critical role in trying to fill in the gap, Paul said. We provide high-quality evidence-based care directly to community members, while also providing the training necessary. But we do so on limited funding. Currently, a graduate student who works with a child and family for one hour is reimbursed by Medicaid for that hour. But beyond that hour, they had an hour of supervision. They had an hour of how to assess suicide risk, Paul said, explaining the current reimbursement scheme doesnt help us provide the infrastructure and support behind quality training. Clinics already serve Medicaid recipients, but are financially unsustainable under fee for service rates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Bill 353 creates a category for university clinics that provide counseling services to the public. The legislation creates two per diem reimbursement rates one for psychiatric residents, and another for non-medical trainees such as marriage and family therapist graduate students. The rates are in line with research from Washington state, which is also seeking to establish a reimbursement model for university training clinics. The proposed reimbursement model would require $255,103 from the state in the next biennium, which begins July 1, in addition to $417,340 from federal Medicaid funding over the two years. Enhanced reimbursement rates have existed for decades for medical education, Paul told lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legislation would allow clinics to leverage their services in a smart, scalable way, Paul said, adding the effort represents more than a technical adjustment to reimbursement policy. It is an innovative and vital step toward building the workforce we need while ensuring access to quality care for the most vulnerable. Medicaid is the single largest payer for mental health services in the United States, and remains a critical pathway to accessing health care, state Sen. Marilyn Dondero Loop, a Democrat from Las Vegas and one of the bills sponsors, testified last week before the Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor. Access to mental and behavioral health services for Medicaid enrollees is a fundamental aspect of the mission of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, ensuring that all individuals have access to receive necessary support for their overall well being. UNLV PRACTICE has an annual budget of $675,000, and provides 6,500 hours of mental health services a year while training 30 graduate students, Paul said. The clinic has served more than 6,000 community members and trained 300 graduates since 2012, said Dondero-Loop, who is sponsoring the legislation along with Sen. Edgar Flores and Sen. Rochelle Nguyen, also Democrats from Southern Nevada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The clinics patients have a 67.5% overall improvement rate, compared to 21% in routine care settings, Paul said via email. Our clinics reach hard to serve populations, Paul testified, adding UNLV PRACTICE provides telehealth services to middle and high school students in Elko and Humboldt counties. We also see children and Spanish-speaking families and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, but the standard reimbursement fails to account for the additional supervision, infrastructure and time needed in training clinics. The measure unanimously passed out of Senate Commerce and Labor on Wednesday and will head to a money committee. Ex-Fox News star Bill OReilly has warned President Donald Trump he better steer away from his billionaire buddy and senior adviser Elon Musk. Musk is a short timer, the former OReilly Factor anchor said in an appearance on NewsNations Cuomo, hosted by ex-CNN anchor Chris Cuomo. Hes just too hot. You just cant have a guy that hot. Musks attempt to rally Wisconsin voters fell embarrassingly flat when conservative Brad Schimel lost a key state Supreme Court race on Tuesdayjust months after Trump carried the state in the presidential election. Donald Trump and Bill O'Reilly at a New York Yankees game in 2010. The two have known each other for decades, and Trump defended O'Reilly from sexual harassment allegations in 2017, saying, The tech billionaire, who has slashed federal jobs and gutted agencies in his relentless cost-cutting rampage at the newly minted Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), had traveled to the Midwestern state to hold a town hall and a rally, apparently convinced that his presence would be a political boostnot a liability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OReilly, who has come out in support of DOGE, said he thought Musk did a good job exposing the government waste... but now, the technicians should take over. You dont need Elon to go out and sell [the cost-cutting initiative]. Its sold, said OReilly, who has launched the media venture No Spin News since his departure from Fox. After the Tesla CEOs humiliating defeat in Wisconsin and news of plummeting approval ratings, Trump reportedly told his inner circle that his billionaire cheerleader will be taking a backseat at the White House. I think hell remain a Trump advisor, but I do think hell go back to the private sector, OReilly predicted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a senior Trump administration official told Politico Wednesday that anyone hoping that Musk will disappear entirely from Trumps orbit is fooling themselves. President @realDonaldTrump was asked by a reporter on Air Force One about how long DOGE chief @elonmusk will stay in his position. pic.twitter.com/0x7VBOxFyU Fox News (@FoxNews) April 3, 2025 Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Thursday that he thought Musk is fantastic, and hes a patriot. But the president predicted Musk will stay for a certain period of time and then hes going to want to get back to his businesses full time. Both OReilly and Cuomo, were fired from Fox News and CNN respectively for allegations of misconduct. OReilly paid almost $9 million to former Fox News producer Andrea Mackris to settle her sexual harassment lawsuit, in which she detailed lewd, menacing calls and conversations where he allegedly forced her to listen to his sexual fantasies about her. Here was my boss, a man who held my career and future in his hands, acknowledging that he knew Id never consented but he didnt care, Mackris told the Daily Beast in an exclusive 2021 interview. Jeanette DeDios KUNM Native American students make up 11 percent of public school enrollment in New Mexico. Yet there are not enough resources for them to learn their Native languages. A bill passed in the recent legislative session will create new schools under a state-tribal compact to address those gaps. New Mexico has 23 sovereign tribes and among those tribes eight languages are spoken, but only seven are taught in school districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Bill 13 will create a five-year pilot program with five schools prioritizing distinct Native languages of Tiwa, Tewa, Towa, Keres, Apache, Zuni, and Dine. Bill co-sponsor Sen. Benny Shendo Jr. (D-Jemez Pueblo) said that many Native parents and grandparents have been conditioned to believe the only way to succeed was to speak English. But thats not true, he said. I was born and raised speaking my language. It wasn't much later that I began to learn English. So how can that be when those of us that were fluent Native speakers are able to be successful in college and all the stuff that we're doing today? He said a lot of Native students are struggling because they dont feel that they belong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And if we can really reground them in who they are, then I think it gives them that confidence for them to be able to go out and compete in the world in a way that they should be competing, not with anxiety about, who am I? Where do I belong? he said. Native American students have historically reported lower achievement and graduation rates than their peers. The New Mexico Indian Education Act stresses the importance of maintaining Native languages and culture. But programs providing these opportunities are currently limited within public schools. In 2018, a ruling in the Yazzie/Martinez lawsuit determined the state had failed to provide a sufficient education to Native American students as well as those learning English, living with disabilities or from families with low incomes. The Legislative Education Study Committees analysis of the new legislation suggested it could offer the state an opportunity to respond to the lawsuit through targeted funding, creation of cultural learning environments and putting more teachers in classrooms with backgrounds similar to their students. The bill does not contain an appropriation, but will provide operational and capital outlay funding for immersion schools. Students at Tennessee State University, a public HBCU, greet Oprah Winfrey at a 2023 commencement ceremony. In recent months, university officials have warned that they could run out of cash by May. (Jason Kempin/Getty Images) The nations historically Black colleges and universities, known as HBCUs, are wondering how to survive in an uncertain and contentious educational climate as the Trump administration downsizes the scope and purpose of the U.S. Department of Education while cutting away at federal funding for higher education. In January, President Donald Trump signed an executive order pausing federal grants and loans, alarming HBCUs, where most students rely on Pell Grants or federal aid. The order was later rescinded, but ongoing cuts leave key support systems in political limbo, said Denise Smith, deputy director of higher education policy and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation, a left-leaning think tank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaders worry about Trumps rollback of the Justice40 Initiative, a climate change program that relied on HBCUs to tackle environmental justice issues, she said. And theres uncertainty around programs such as federal work-study and TRIO, which provides college access services to disadvantaged students. People are being mum because were starting to see a chilling effect, Smith said. Theres real fear that resources could be lost at any moment even the ones schools already know they need to survive. Most students at HBCUs rely on Pell Grants or other federal aid, and a fifth of Black college graduates matriculate from HBCUs. Other minority-serving institutions, known as MSIs, that focus on Hispanic and American Indian populations also heavily depend on federal aid. Its still unclear what these cuts will mean for HBCUs and MSIs, even though theyre supposedly protected, Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement States may be unlikely to make up any potential federal funding cuts to their public HBCUs. And the schools already have been underfunded by states compared with predominantly white schools. Theres real fear that resources could be lost at any moment even the ones schools already know they need to survive. Denise Smith, deputy director of higher education policy and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation Congress created public, land-grant universities under the Morrill Act of 1862 to serve the countrys agricultural and industrial industries, providing 10 million acres taken from tribes and offering it for public universities such as Auburn and the University of Georgia. But Black students were excluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 1890 Morrill Act required states to either integrate or establish separate land-grant institutions for Black students leading to the creation of many HBCUs. These schools have since faced chronic underfunding compared with their majority-white counterparts. None of them are equitable In 2020, the average endowment of white land-grant universities was $1.9 billion, compared with just $34 million for HBCUs, according to Forbes. There are other HBCUs that dont stem from the 1890 law, including well-known private schools such as Fisk University, Howard University, Morehouse College and Spelman College. But more than three-fourths of HBCU students attend public universities, meaning state lawmakers play a significant role in their funding and oversight. Marybeth Gasman, an endowed chair in education and a distinguished professor at Rutgers University, isnt impressed by what states have done for HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions so far. She said she isnt sure there is a state model that can bridge the massive funding inequities for these institutions, even in states better known for their support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think North Carolina or Maryland have done a particularly good job at the state level. Nor have any of the other states. Students at HBCUs are funded at roughly 50-60% of what students at [predominately white institutions] are funded. Thats not right, said Gasman. Most of the bipartisan support has come from the U.S. Congress and is the result of important work by HBCUs and affiliated organizations. I dont know of a state model that works well, as none of them are equitable. Under federal law, states that accept federal land-grant funding are required to match every dollar with state funds. But in 2023, the Biden administration sent letters to 16 governors warning them that their public Black land-grant institutions had been underfunded by more than $12 billion over three decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tennessee State University alone had a $2.1 billion gap with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. At a February meeting hosted by the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators, Tennessee State interim President Dwayne Tucker said the school is focused on asking lawmakers this year for money to keep the school running. Otherwise, Tucker said at the time, the institution could run out of cash around April or May. Thats real money. Thats the money we should work on, Tucker said, according to a video of the forum. In some states, lawsuits to recoup long-standing underfunding have been one course of action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Maryland, a landmark $577 million legal settlement was reached in 2021 to address decades of underfunding at four public HBCUs. In Georgia, three HBCU students sued the state in 2023 for underfunding of three HBCUs. In Tennessee, a recent state report found Tennessee State University has been shortchanged roughly $150 million to $544 million over the past 100 years. But Tucker said he thinks filing a lawsuit doesnt make much sense for Tennessee State. Theres no account payable set up with the state of Tennessee to pay us $2.1 billion, Tucker said at the February forum. And if we want to make a conclusion about whether [that money] is real or not youre going to have to sue the state of Tennessee, and I dont think that makes a whole lot of sense. Economic anchors There are 102 HBCUs across 19 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, though a large number of HBCUs are concentrated in the South. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alabama has the most, with 14, and Pennsylvania has the farthest north HBCU. Beyond education, HBCUs contribute roughly $15 billion annually to their local economies, generate more than 134,000 jobs and create $46.8 billion in career earnings, proving themselves to be economic anchors in under-resourced regions. Homecoming events at HBCUs significantly bolster local economies, local studies show. North Carolina Central Universitys homecoming contributes approximately $2.5 million to Durhams economy annually. Similarly, Hampton Universitys 2024 homecoming was projected to inject around $3 million into the City of Hampton and the coastal Virginia region, spurred by increased visitor spending and retail sales. In Tallahassee, Florida A&M Universitys 2024 homecoming week in October generated about $5.1 million from Sunday to Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their significance is especially pronounced in Southern states such as North Carolina, where HBCUs account for just 16% of four-year schools but serve 45% of the states Black undergraduate population. Smith has been encouraged by what shes seen in states such as Maryland, North Carolina and Tennessee, which have a combined 20 HBCUs among them. Lawmakers have taken piecemeal steps to expand support for HBCUs through policy and funding, she noted. Tennessee became the first state in 2018 to appoint a full-time statewide higher education official dedicated to HBCU success for institutions such as Fisk and Tennessee State. Meanwhile, North Carolina launched a bipartisan, bicameral HBCU Caucus in 2023 to advocate for its 10 HBCUs, known as the NC10, and spotlight their $1.7 billion annual economic impact. We created a bipartisan HBCU caucus because we needed people in both parties to understand these institutions importance. If you represent a district with an HBCU, you should be connected to it, said North Carolina Democratic Sen. Gladys Robinson, an alum of private HBCU Bennett College and state HBCU North Carolina A&T State University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It took constant education getting folks to come and see, talk about what was going on, she recalled. Its like beating the drum constantly until you finally hear the beat. For Robinson, advocacy for HBCUs can be a tough task, especially when fellow lawmakers arent aware of the stories of these institutions. North Carolina A&T was among the 1890 land-grant universities historically undermatched in federal agricultural and extension funding. The NC Promise Tuition Plan, launched in 2018, reduced in-state tuition to $500 per semester and out-of-state tuition to $2,500 per semester at a handful of schools that now include HBCUs Elizabeth City State University and Fayetteville State University; Western Carolina University, a Hispanic-serving institution; and UNC at Pembroke, founded in 1887 to serve American Indians. Through conversations on the floor of the General Assembly, and with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, Robinson advocated to ensure Elizabeth City State a struggling HBCU was included, which helped revive enrollment and public investment. Im hopeful because weve been here before, Robinson said in an interview. These institutions were built out of churches and land by people who had nothing, just so we could be educated, Robinson said. We have people in powerful positions across the country. We have to use our strength and our voices. Alumni must step up. Its tough, but not undoable. Meanwhile, other states are working to recognize certain colleges that offer significant support to Black college students. California last year passed a law creating a Black-serving Institution designation, the first such title in the country. Schools must have programs focused on Black achievement, retention and graduation rates, along with a five-year plan to improve them. Sacramento State is among the first receiving the designation. And this session, California state Assemblymember Mike Gipson, a Democrat, introduced legislation that proposes a $75 million grant program to support Black and underserved students over five years through the Designation of California Black-Serving Institutions Grant Program. The bill was most recently referred to the Assemblys appropriations committee. Stateline reporter Robbie Sequeira can be reached at rsequeira@stateline.org. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Students at Tennessee State University, a public HBCU, greet Oprah Winfrey at a 2023 commencement ceremony. In recent months, university officials have warned that they could run out of cash by May. (Jason Kempin | Getty Images) The nations historically Black colleges and universities, known as HBCUs, are wondering how to survive in an uncertain and contentious educational climate as the Trump administration downsizes the scope and purpose of the U.S. Department of Education while cutting away at federal funding for higher education. In January, President Donald Trump signed an executive order pausing federal grants and loans, alarming HBCUs, where most students rely on Pell Grants or federal aid. The order was later rescinded, but ongoing cuts leave key support systems in political limbo, said Denise Smith, deputy director of higher education policy and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation, a left-leaning think tank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaders worry about Trumps rollback of the Justice40 Initiative, a climate change program that relied on HBCUs to tackle environmental justice issues, she said. And theres uncertainty around programs such as federal work-study and TRIO, which provides college access services to disadvantaged students. People are being mum because were starting to see a chilling effect, Smith said. Theres real fear that resources could be lost at any moment even the ones schools already know they need to survive. Most students at HBCUs rely on Pell Grants or other federal aid, and a fifth of Black college graduates matriculate from HBCUs. Other minority-serving institutions, known as MSIs, that focus on Hispanic and American Indian populations also heavily depend on federal aid. Its still unclear what these cuts will mean for HBCUs and MSIs, even though theyre supposedly protected, Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement States may be unlikely to make up any potential federal funding cuts to their public HBCUs. And the schools already have been underfunded by states compared with predominantly white schools. Theres real fear that resources could be lost at any moment even the ones schools already know they need to survive. Denise Smith, deputy director of higher education policy and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation Congress created public, land-grant universities under the Morrill Act of 1862 to serve the countrys agricultural and industrial industries, providing 10 million acres taken from tribes and offering it for public universities such as Auburn and the University of Georgia. But Black students were excluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 1890 Morrill Act required states to either integrate or establish separate land-grant institutions for Black students leading to the creation of many HBCUs. These schools have since faced chronic underfunding compared with their majority-white counterparts. None of them are equitable In 2020, the average endowment of white land-grant universities was $1.9 billion, compared with just $34 million for HBCUs, according to Forbes. There are other HBCUs that dont stem from the 1890 law, including well-known private schools such as Fisk University, Howard University, Morehouse College and Spelman College. But more than three-fourths of HBCU students attend public universities, meaning state lawmakers play a significant role in their funding and oversight. Marybeth Gasman, an endowed chair in education and a distinguished professor at Rutgers University, isnt impressed by what states have done for HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions so far. She said she isnt sure there is a state model that can bridge the massive funding inequities for these institutions, even in states better known for their support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think North Carolina or Maryland have done a particularly good job at the state level. Nor have any of the other states. Students at HBCUs are funded at roughly 50-60% of what students at [predominately white institutions] are funded. Thats not right, said Gasman. Most of the bipartisan support has come from the U.S. Congress and is the result of important work by HBCUs and affiliated organizations. I dont know of a state model that works well, as none of them are equitable. Under federal law, states that accept federal land-grant funding are required to match every dollar with state funds. But in 2023, the Biden administration sent letters to 16 governors warning them that their public Black land-grant institutions had been underfunded by more than $12 billion over three decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tennessee State University alone had a $2.1 billion gap with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. At a February meeting hosted by the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators, Tennessee State interim President Dwayne Tucker said the school is focused on asking lawmakers this year for money to keep the school running. Otherwise, Tucker said at the time, the institution could run out of cash around April or May. Thats real money. Thats the money we should work on, Tucker said, according to a video of the forum. In some states, lawsuits to recoup long-standing underfunding have been one course of action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Maryland, a landmark $577 million legal settlement was reached in 2021 to address decades of underfunding at four public HBCUs. In Georgia, three HBCU students sued the state in 2023 for underfunding of three HBCUs. In Tennessee, a recent state report found Tennessee State University has been shortchanged roughly $150 million to $544 million over the past 100 years. But Tucker said he thinks filing a lawsuit doesnt make much sense for Tennessee State. Theres no account payable set up with the state of Tennessee to pay us $2.1 billion, Tucker said at the February forum. And if we want to make a conclusion about whether [that money] is real or not youre going to have to sue the state of Tennessee, and I dont think that makes a whole lot of sense. Economic anchors There are 102 HBCUs across 19 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, though a large number of HBCUs are concentrated in the South. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alabama has the most, with 14, and Pennsylvania has the farthest north HBCU. Beyond education, HBCUs contribute roughly $15 billion annually to their local economies, generate more than 134,000 jobs and create $46.8 billion in career earnings, proving themselves to be economic anchors in under-resourced regions. Homecoming events at HBCUs significantly bolster local economies, local studies show. North Carolina Central Universitys homecoming contributes approximately $2.5 million to Durhams economy annually. Similarly, Hampton Universitys 2024 homecoming was projected to inject around $3 million into the City of Hampton and the coastal Virginia region, spurred by increased visitor spending and retail sales. In Tallahassee, Florida A&M Universitys 2024 homecoming week in October generated about $5.1 million from Sunday to Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their significance is especially pronounced in Southern states such as North Carolina, where HBCUs account for just 16% of four-year schools but serve 45% of the states Black undergraduate population. Smith has been encouraged by what shes seen in states such as Maryland, North Carolina and Tennessee, which have a combined 20 HBCUs among them. Lawmakers have taken piecemeal steps to expand support for HBCUs through policy and funding, she noted. Tennessee became the first state in 2018 to appoint a full-time statewide higher education official dedicated to HBCU success for institutions such as Fisk and Tennessee State. Meanwhile, North Carolina launched a bipartisan, bicameral HBCU Caucus in 2023 to advocate for its 10 HBCUs, known as the NC10, and spotlight their $1.7 billion annual economic impact. We created a bipartisan HBCU caucus because we needed people in both parties to understand these institutions importance. If you represent a district with an HBCU, you should be connected to it, said North Carolina Democratic Sen. Gladys Robinson, an alum of private HBCU Bennett College and state HBCU North Carolina A&T State University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It took constant education getting folks to come and see, talk about what was going on, she recalled. Its like beating the drum constantly until you finally hear the beat. For Robinson, advocacy for HBCUs can be a tough task, especially when fellow lawmakers arent aware of the stories of these institutions. North Carolina A&T was among the 1890 land-grant universities historically undermatched in federal agricultural and extension funding. The NC Promise Tuition Plan, launched in 2018, reduced in-state tuition to $500 per semester and out-of-state tuition to $2,500 per semester at a handful of schools that now include HBCUs Elizabeth City State University and Fayetteville State University; Western Carolina University, a Hispanic-serving institution; and UNC at Pembroke, founded in 1887 to serve American Indians. Through conversations on the floor of the General Assembly, and with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, Robinson advocated to ensure Elizabeth City State a struggling HBCU was included, which helped revive enrollment and public investment. Im hopeful because weve been here before, Robinson said in an interview. These institutions were built out of churches and land by people who had nothing, just so we could be educated, Robinson said. We have people in powerful positions across the country. We have to use our strength and our voices. Alumni must step up. Its tough, but not undoable. Meanwhile, other states are working to recognize certain colleges that offer significant support to Black college students. California last year passed a law creating a Black-serving Institution designation, the first such title in the country. Schools must have programs focused on Black achievement, retention and graduation rates, along with a five-year plan to improve them. Sacramento State is among the first receiving the designation. And this session, California state Assemblymember Mike Gipson, a Democrat, introduced legislation that proposes a $75 million grant program to support Black and underserved students over five years through the Designation of California Black-Serving Institutions Grant Program. The bill was most recently referred to the Assemblys appropriations committee. Stateline reporter Robbie Sequeira can be reached at rsequeira@stateline.org. Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Flash People watch live broadcast of the ruling on the impeachment against President Yoon Suk-yeol by South Korea's constitutional court in Seoul, South Korea, April 4, 2025. South Korea's constitutional court upheld a motion by the National Assembly to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol over his short-lived martial law imposition, live TV broadcast showed Friday. (Xinhua/Yao Qilin) South Korea's constitutional court upheld a motion by the National Assembly to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol over his short-lived martial law imposition, a live TV broadcast showed Friday. Moon Hyung-bae, acting chief of the court, read a ruling on Yoon's impeachment, saying it was a unanimous decision of eight justices. The acting chief said Yoon broke his duty of protecting the constitution as he damaged the constitutional institutions, such as the parliament, and violated the basic rights of people by mobilizing the military and the police. Moon stressed that the benefit of protecting the constitution through Yoon's dismissal will overwhelmingly exceed the national loss from his dismissal. Yoon declared an emergency martial law on the night of Dec. 3 last year, but it was revoked by the opposition-led National Assembly hours later. Throughout the midnight hours of the botched martial law attempt, military helicopters landed at the National Assembly, and hundreds of armed special forces troops broke into the parliamentary building. By law, the ruling comes into force immediately after the reading and a snap presidential election is required to be held within 60 days. The election is expected to fall in late May or early June. The conservative leader officially lost all presidential power, becoming the country's second sitting president to be forcibly removed from power following former conservative President Park Geun-hye's ouster through impeachment in 2017. Yoon also became the third president to be impeached by the National Assembly in the country's constitutional history. Late liberal President Roh Moo-hyun was reinstated in the presidency after impeachment by the National Assembly in 2004. Since the passage of Yoon's impeachment motion on Dec. 14 last year, a total of 11 hearings have been held in the constitutional court until Feb. 25. It took 111 days before the constitutional court's final verdict, compared to 92 days for Park's impeachment and 64 days for Roh's impeachment. Yoon was apprehended in the presidential office on Jan. 15 and was indicted under detention on Jan. 26 as a suspected ringleader of insurrection, becoming the country's first sitting president to be arrested and prosecuted. If convicted of being the insurrection ringleader, Yoon could face the death penalty or life imprisonment. He was released on March 8 as the prosecution decided not to appeal against a court's release approval. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The Southern Gas Corridor is a foundation for successful bilateral partnership between the U.S. and Azerbaijan based on shared interests, Senior Advisor of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Energy Resources (ENR) Erik Jacobs said addressing the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku, Trend reports. He pointed out that the United States places great value on our relationship with Azerbaijan. We are proud today to help celebrate the Southern Gas Corridor as a testament to ingenuity and ambition. It helped unlock Azerbaijans energy abundance for the betterment of not just Azerbaijan, but for the whole region with Azerbaijan becoming a reliable supplier to a dozen countries, said Jacobs. He went on to add that like the United States, Azerbaijan is blessed with tremendous energy abundance. I visited the Sangachal export terminal a few days ago. It is obvious that Azerbaijan never forgot that natural gas is a fuel of choice for this countrys future, as well as the future of Europe and the globe. Looking out from this beautiful venue on to the Caspian Sea one of the worlds great energy centers I think we can all see the potential, as both an energy provider and a bridge from Central Asia to Europe. I look forward to partnering with you to identify and accelerate opportunities to advance energy security and economic growth for the United States, U.S. business, and you and your energy industries, added Jacobs. Students at Tennessee State University, a public HBCU, greet Oprah Winfrey at a 2023 commencement ceremony. In recent months, university officials have warned that they could run out of cash by May. (Jason Kempin/Getty Images) The nations historically Black colleges and universities, known as HBCUs, are wondering how to survive in an uncertain and contentious educational climate as the Trump administration downsizes the scope and purpose of the U.S. Department of Education while cutting away at federal funding for higher education. In January, President Donald Trump signed an executive order pausing federal grants and loans, alarming HBCUs, where most students rely on Pell Grants or federal aid. The order was later rescinded, but ongoing cuts leave key support systems in political limbo, said Denise Smith, deputy director of higher education policy and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation, a left-leaning think tank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaders worry about Trumps rollback of the Justice40 Initiative, a climate change program that relied on HBCUs to tackle environmental justice issues, she said. And theres uncertainty around programs such as federal work-study and TRIO, which provides college access services to disadvantaged students. People are being mum because were starting to see a chilling effect, Smith said. Theres real fear that resources could be lost at any moment even the ones schools already know they need to survive. Most students at HBCUs rely on Pell Grants or other federal aid, and a fifth of Black college graduates matriculate from HBCUs. Other minority-serving institutions, known as MSIs, that focus on Hispanic and American Indian populations also heavily depend on federal aid. Its still unclear what these cuts will mean for HBCUs and MSIs, even though theyre supposedly protected, Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement States may be unlikely to make up any potential federal funding cuts to their public HBCUs. And the schools already have been underfunded by states compared with predominantly white schools. Theres real fear that resources could be lost at any moment even the ones schools already know they need to survive. Denise Smith, deputy director of higher education policy and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation Congress created public, land-grant universities under the Morrill Act of 1862 to serve the countrys agricultural and industrial industries, providing 10 million acres taken from tribes and offering it for public universities such as Auburn and the University of Georgia. But Black students were excluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 1890 Morrill Act required states to either integrate or establish separate land-grant institutions for Black students leading to the creation of many HBCUs. These schools have since faced chronic underfunding compared with their majority-white counterparts. None of them are equitable In 2020, the average endowment of white land-grant universities was $1.9 billion, compared with just $34 million for HBCUs, according to Forbes. There are other HBCUs that dont stem from the 1890 law, including well-known private schools such as Fisk University, Howard University, Morehouse College and Spelman College. But more than three-fourths of HBCU students attend public universities, meaning state lawmakers play a significant role in their funding and oversight. Marybeth Gasman, an endowed chair in education and a distinguished professor at Rutgers University, isnt impressed by what states have done for HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions so far. She said she isnt sure there is a state model that can bridge the massive funding inequities for these institutions, even in states better known for their support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think North Carolina or Maryland have done a particularly good job at the state level. Nor have any of the other states. Students at HBCUs are funded at roughly 50-60% of what students at [predominately white institutions] are funded. Thats not right, said Gasman. Most of the bipartisan support has come from the U.S. Congress and is the result of important work by HBCUs and affiliated organizations. I dont know of a state model that works well, as none of them are equitable. Under federal law, states that accept federal land-grant funding are required to match every dollar with state funds. But in 2023, the Biden administration sent letters to 16 governors warning them that their public Black land-grant institutions had been underfunded by more than $12 billion over three decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tennessee State University alone had a $2.1 billion gap with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. At a February meeting hosted by the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators, Tennessee State interim President Dwayne Tucker said the school is focused on asking lawmakers this year for money to keep the school running. Otherwise, Tucker said at the time, the institution could run out of cash around April or May. Thats real money. Thats the money we should work on, Tucker said, according to a video of the forum. In some states, lawsuits to recoup long-standing underfunding have been one course of action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Maryland, a landmark $577 million legal settlement was reached in 2021 to address decades of underfunding at four public HBCUs. In Georgia, three HBCU students sued the state in 2023 for underfunding of three HBCUs. In Tennessee, a recent state report found Tennessee State University has been shortchanged roughly $150 million to $544 million over the past 100 years. But Tucker said he thinks filing a lawsuit doesnt make much sense for Tennessee State. Theres no account payable set up with the state of Tennessee to pay us $2.1 billion, Tucker said at the February forum. And if we want to make a conclusion about whether [that money] is real or not youre going to have to sue the state of Tennessee, and I dont think that makes a whole lot of sense. Economic anchors There are 102 HBCUs across 19 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, though a large number of HBCUs are concentrated in the South. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alabama has the most, with 14, and Pennsylvania has the farthest north HBCU. Beyond education, HBCUs contribute roughly $15 billion annually to their local economies, generate more than 134,000 jobs and create $46.8 billion in career earnings, proving themselves to be economic anchors in under-resourced regions. Homecoming events at HBCUs significantly bolster local economies, local studies show. North Carolina Central Universitys homecoming contributes approximately $2.5 million to Durhams economy annually. Similarly, Hampton Universitys 2024 homecoming was projected to inject around $3 million into the City of Hampton and the coastal Virginia region, spurred by increased visitor spending and retail sales. In Tallahassee, Florida A&M Universitys 2024 homecoming week in October generated about $5.1 million from Sunday to Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their significance is especially pronounced in Southern states such as North Carolina, where HBCUs account for just 16% of four-year schools but serve 45% of the states Black undergraduate population. Smith has been encouraged by what shes seen in states such as Maryland, North Carolina and Tennessee, which have a combined 20 HBCUs among them. Lawmakers have taken piecemeal steps to expand support for HBCUs through policy and funding, she noted. Tennessee became the first state in 2018 to appoint a full-time statewide higher education official dedicated to HBCU success for institutions such as Fisk and Tennessee State. Meanwhile, North Carolina launched a bipartisan, bicameral HBCU Caucus in 2023 to advocate for its 10 HBCUs, known as the NC10, and spotlight their $1.7 billion annual economic impact. We created a bipartisan HBCU caucus because we needed people in both parties to understand these institutions importance. If you represent a district with an HBCU, you should be connected to it, said North Carolina Democratic Sen. Gladys Robinson, an alum of private HBCU Bennett College and state HBCU North Carolina A&T State University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It took constant education getting folks to come and see, talk about what was going on, she recalled. Its like beating the drum constantly until you finally hear the beat. For Robinson, advocacy for HBCUs can be a tough task, especially when fellow lawmakers arent aware of the stories of these institutions. North Carolina A&T was among the 1890 land-grant universities historically undermatched in federal agricultural and extension funding. The NC Promise Tuition Plan, launched in 2018, reduced in-state tuition to $500 per semester and out-of-state tuition to $2,500 per semester at a handful of schools that now include HBCUs Elizabeth City State University and Fayetteville State University; Western Carolina University, a Hispanic-serving institution; and UNC at Pembroke, founded in 1887 to serve American Indians. Through conversations on the floor of the General Assembly, and with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, Robinson advocated to ensure Elizabeth City State a struggling HBCU was included, which helped revive enrollment and public investment. Im hopeful because weve been here before, Robinson said in an interview. These institutions were built out of churches and land by people who had nothing, just so we could be educated, Robinson said. We have people in powerful positions across the country. We have to use our strength and our voices. Alumni must step up. Its tough, but not undoable. Meanwhile, other states are working to recognize certain colleges that offer significant support to Black college students. California last year passed a law creating a Black-serving Institution designation, the first such title in the country. Schools must have programs focused on Black achievement, retention and graduation rates, along with a five-year plan to improve them. Sacramento State is among the first receiving the designation. And this session, California state Assemblymember Mike Gipson, a Democrat, introduced legislation that proposes a $75 million grant program to support Black and underserved students over five years through the Designation of California Black-Serving Institutions Grant Program. The bill was most recently referred to the Assemblys appropriations committee. Stateline reporter Robbie Sequeira can be reached at rsequeira@stateline.org. Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. A monument to the former slaves and Union Army soldiers who raised money to found Lincoln University greets visitors to the historically Black college and university located in Jefferson City (Photo courtesy of Lincoln University). The nations historically Black colleges and universities, known as HBCUs, are wondering how to survive in an uncertain and contentious educational climate as the Trump administration downsizes the scope and purpose of the U.S. Department of Education while cutting away at federal funding for higher education. In January, President Donald Trump signed an executive order pausing federal grants and loans, alarming HBCUs, where most students rely on Pell Grants or federal aid. The order was later rescinded, but ongoing cuts leave key support systems in political limbo, said Denise Smith, deputy director of higher education policy and a senior fellow at The Century Foundation, a left-leaning think tank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaders worry about Trumps rollback of the Justice40 Initiative, a climate change program that relied on HBCUs to tackle environmental justice issues, she said. And theres uncertainty around programs such as federal work-study and TRIO, which provides college access services to disadvantaged students. People are being mum because were starting to see a chilling effect, Smith said. Theres real fear that resources could be lost at any moment even the ones schools already know they need to survive. Most students at HBCUs rely on Pell Grants or other federal aid, and a fifth of Black college graduates matriculate from HBCUs. Other minority-serving institutions, known as MSIs, that focus on Hispanic and American Indian populations also heavily depend on federal aid. Its still unclear what these cuts will mean for HBCUs and MSIs, even though theyre supposedly protected, Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement States may be unlikely to make up any potential federal funding cuts to their public HBCUs. And the schools already have been underfunded by states compared with predominantly white schools. Congress created public, land-grant universities under the Morrill Act of 1862 to serve the countrys agricultural and industrial industries, providing 10 million acres taken from tribes and offering it for public universities such as Auburn and the University of Georgia. But Black students were excluded. The 1890 Morrill Act required states to either integrate or establish separate land-grant institutions for Black students leading to the creation of many HBCUs. These schools have since faced chronic underfunding compared with their majority-white counterparts. None of them are equitable In 2020, the average endowment of white land-grant universities was $1.9 billion, compared with just $34 million for HBCUs, according to Forbes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are other HBCUs that dont stem from the 1890 law, including well-known private schools such as Fisk University, Howard University, Morehouse College and Spelman College. But more than three-fourths of HBCU students attend public universities, meaning state lawmakers play a significant role in their funding and oversight. Marybeth Gasman, an endowed chair in education and a distinguished professor at Rutgers University, isnt impressed by what states have done for HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions so far. She said she isnt sure there is a state model that can bridge the massive funding inequities for these institutions, even in states better known for their support. I dont think North Carolina or Maryland have done a particularly good job at the state level. Nor have any of the other states. Students at HBCUs are funded at roughly 50-60% of what students at [predominately white institutions] are funded. Thats not right, said Gasman. Most of the bipartisan support has come from the U.S. Congress and is the result of important work by HBCUs and affiliated organizations. I dont know of a state model that works well, as none of them are equitable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under federal law, states that accept federal land-grant funding are required to match every dollar with state funds. But in 2023, the Biden administration sent letters to 16 governors warning them that their public Black land-grant institutions had been underfunded by more than $12 billion over three decades. Tennessee State University alone had a $2.1 billion gap with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. At a February meeting hosted by the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators, Tennessee State interim President Dwayne Tucker said the school is focused on asking lawmakers this year for money to keep the school running. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Otherwise, Tucker said at the time, the institution could run out of cash around April or May. Thats real money. Thats the money we should work on, Tucker said, according to a video of the forum. In some states, lawsuits to recoup long-standing underfunding have been one course of action. In Maryland, a landmark $577 million legal settlement was reached in 2021 to address decades of underfunding at four public HBCUs. In Georgia, three HBCU students sued the state in 2023 for underfunding of three HBCUs. In Tennessee, a recent state report found Tennessee State University has been shortchanged roughly $150 million to $544 million over the past 100 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Tucker said he thinks filing a lawsuit doesnt make much sense for Tennessee State. Theres no account payable set up with the state of Tennessee to pay us $2.1 billion, Tucker said at the February forum. And if we want to make a conclusion about whether [that money] is real or not youre going to have to sue the state of Tennessee, and I dont think that makes a whole lot of sense. Economic anchors There are 102 HBCUs across 19 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, though a large number of HBCUs are concentrated in the South. Alabama has the most, with 14, and Pennsylvania has the farthest north HBCU. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond education, HBCUs contribute roughly $15 billion annually to their local economies, generate more than 134,000 jobs and create $46.8 billion in career earnings, proving themselves to be economic anchors in under-resourced regions. Homecoming events at HBCUs significantly bolster local economies, local studies show. North Carolina Central Universitys homecoming contributes approximately $2.5 million to Durhams economy annually. Similarly, Hampton Universitys 2024 homecoming was projected to inject around $3 million into the City of Hampton and the coastal Virginia region, spurred by increased visitor spending and retail sales. In Tallahassee, Florida A&M Universitys 2024 homecoming week in October generated about $5.1 million from Sunday to Thursday. Their significance is especially pronounced in Southern states such as North Carolina, where HBCUs account for just 16% of four-year schools but serve 45% of the states Black undergraduate population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith has been encouraged by what shes seen in states such as Maryland, North Carolina and Tennessee, which have a combined 20 HBCUs among them. Lawmakers have taken piecemeal steps to expand support for HBCUs through policy and funding, she noted. Tennessee became the first state in 2018 to appoint a full-time statewide higher education official dedicated to HBCU success for institutions such as Fisk and Tennessee State. Meanwhile, North Carolina launched a bipartisan, bicameral HBCU Caucus in 2023 to advocate for its 10 HBCUs, known as the NC10, and spotlight their $1.7 billion annual economic impact. We created a bipartisan HBCU caucus because we needed people in both parties to understand these institutions importance. If you represent a district with an HBCU, you should be connected to it, said North Carolina Democratic Sen. Gladys Robinson, an alum of private HBCU Bennett College and state HBCU North Carolina A&T State University. It took constant education getting folks to come and see, talk about what was going on, she recalled. Its like beating the drum constantly until you finally hear the beat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Robinson, advocacy for HBCUs can be a tough task, especially when fellow lawmakers arent aware of the stories of these institutions. North Carolina A&T was among the 1890 land-grant universities historically undermatched in federal agricultural and extension funding. The NC Promise Tuition Plan, launched in 2018, reduced in-state tuition to $500 per semester and out-of-state tuition to $2,500 per semester at a handful of schools that now include HBCUs Elizabeth City State University and Fayetteville State University; Western Carolina University, a Hispanic-serving institution; and UNC at Pembroke, founded in 1887 to serve American Indians. Through conversations on the floor of the General Assembly, and with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, Robinson advocated to ensure Elizabeth City State a struggling HBCU was included, which helped revive enrollment and public investment. Im hopeful because weve been here before, Robinson said in an interview. These institutions were built out of churches and land by people who had nothing, just so we could be educated, Robinson said. We have people in powerful positions across the country. We have to use our strength and our voices. Alumni must step up. Its tough, but not undoable. Meanwhile, other states are working to recognize certain colleges that offer significant support to Black college students. California last year passed a law creating a Black-serving Institution designation, the first such title in the country. Schools must have programs focused on Black achievement, retention and graduation rates, along with a five-year plan to improve them. Sacramento State is among the first receiving the designation. And this session, California state Assemblymember Mike Gipson, a Democrat, introduced legislation that proposes a $75 million grant program to support Black and underserved students over five years through the Designation of California Black-Serving Institutions Grant Program. The bill was most recently referred to the Assemblys appropriations committee. Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. Third-generation farmer Igalious Ike Mills knew it was only a matter of time before a United States Department of Agriculture local office would close in his rural east Texas town. Hed heard of the ongoing closures nationwide and kept close watch on the news about President Donald Trumps calls for tariffs on nearly all U.S. trading partners. The tariffs will be bad for farmers, and will result in increased production cost for imported materials such as steel for barbed-wire fencing on our farms, Mills said. The taxes will also cause higher consumer prices and food supply chain disruptions, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As farmers navigate office closures, federal funding freezes, and job cuts, they endured yet another setback on Wednesday when Trump unveiled what he calls reciprocal tariffs on his self-proclaimed Liberation Day. Americans are set to bear the burden of rising costs due to the tariffs, and Black farmers and rural households that are low income may be the hardest hit. The Trump administration is considering an emergency aid package for farmers, who are likely to be drastically affected by the ongoing trade war. During Trumps first term, farmers were hit hard by the retaliatory tariffs, losing more than $27 billion in agricultural exports, according to the USDA. The top commodities that experienced the largest losses were cotton, pork, soybeans, and sorghum. His administration created a subsidy program to offset the losses, which provided $12 billion in aid. However, more than 99% of the funds went to wealthy white farmers, specifically white men. The tariffs which are government taxes on imported goods range from a minimum of 10% to 49%, according to a chart Trump held during a press conference on April 2. He also imposed a 25% tariff on all foreign automobiles. This is the most aggressive tariff move yet by the most tariff-obsessed president in modern history. Trump said this declaration of economic independence will help the U.S. reduce its taxes and pay down its national debt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harvey Reed III, an agricultural consultant and leader with the Beginning Farmers Coalition, said he strongly objects to the proposed tariffs as they will disproportionately hurt Black farmers and other vulnerable communities that rely on imported products. Many farmers I work with depend on affordable access to essential goods, and these tariffs will drive up costs, making it harder for them to sustain their operations, Reed said. This policy not only threatens the economic stability of these farmers but also exacerbates existing inequalities, leaving vulnerable communities to bear the brunt of increased prices and reduced access to necessary resources. Igalious Mills is hosting a conference to connect farmers with resources. (Courtesy of Igalious Mills) Still, Mills puts things into perspective as he prepares for the challenges ahead. He said he and other farmers arent discouraged because theyve been through worse things like slavery, and its nothing like slavery. Although the tariffs will cause a strain, the closure of USDA offices will create additional barriers for Black farmers to receive adequate resources and information on federal programs. Theres already an existing information gap due to limited outreach by the agency and distrust with agency officials, farmers have previously shared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Mills hometown of Nacogdoches, the USDAs Farm Service Agency closed its doors due to a lease termination, according to the Department of Government Efficiencys website. The closures are the result of the DOGE, a non-government agency tasked with cutting government jobs and other spending. The farm service agency is critical to providing information and resources related to disaster relief, conservation, and loans programs, especially for Black farmers who are still being locked out of USDA resources. The uncertainty has left Black farmers without daily guidance on financing, regulations, and market opportunities for their operations, said Mills, who is the executive director of International Farmers and Ranchers organization. On behalf of local farmers, Mills contacted local agency officials and state directors, who expressed uncertainty about the next steps and which office they would direct farmers to. Mills is actively working to help farmers access what they need with or without federal resources. A lot of them are coming from other smaller communities trying to get there [to Nacogodches]. Its kind of got everybody in an unpredictable situation, he said in a phone call. People just dont have answers. You cant get any answers from the USDA themselves because from what it looks like, theyre going through a trial and error type situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nacogdoches, which has a population of 32,000, is one of hundreds of cities and towns across 40 states whose USDA offices are planning to close because of terminated leasing contracts, according to a Capital B analysis of DOGE lease data. The organization claims that $53.6 million from USDA agencies will be saved, which is 13% of the total savings from all lease terminations, according to a Capital B analysis. A spokesperson for the USDA wrote in an email that Brooke Rollins, the secretary of agriculture, fully supports Trumps directive to eliminate wasteful spending. USDA is optimizing building capacity and consolidating underutilized offices to reduce inefficiencies while continuing to prioritize frontline services for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, the statement said. Weve got to do something While the Trump administration touts extreme growth from the tariffs, farmers are struggling to access government resources from their county and state offices. According to the USDA, the agency consists of 29 agencies and more than 4,500 state offices. Together, the Farm Service Agency and Natural Resource Conservation Service have 2,300 offices nationwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Below is a list of USDA agencies forced to shut down or find a new lease: Agricultural Marketing Service Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service State and County Farm Service Agency Food and Nutrition Service Food Safety and Inspection Service Forest Service Natural Resources Conservation Service Rural Housing Service Foreign Agricultural Service Harvey Reed III, an agricultural consultant and leader with the Beginning Farmers Coalition. (Photo courtesy of Harvey Reed III) Reed questioned the need to eliminate offices when the USDA doesnt have enough. On the other hand, some farmers distrust the officials in these offices and choose to avoid them entirely. Often, there is little to no proactive outreach to Black farmers. Theyre not losing money on those offices, but the money being lost is [through] the people inside those offices, servicing those who come across that door. They should have looked at how we can better service our agriculture community, not by closing the office down, Reed said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added: Closing these offices down its like closing down schools. Its not the answer. We need more [Black] people in the industry because were aging out. Whos going to take their place? Despite the challenges, Mills said the work must continue. Back in Nacogdoches, he is gearing up for his organizations first Agriculture and Forestry Summit in June. The convening is intended to connect farmers with agencies to learn more about their resources. At least one agency official who confirmed attendance has since backed out due to the directive of the agency to halt their work. [We] hadnt had anything like this to happen in the history of the country and thats got everybodys shell shocked, we cant just not do nothing, Mills said. We got to do something. Everybody is just trying to maintain. The post Black Farmers Brace for Trumps Tariffs While Navigating USDA Office Closures appeared first on Capital B News. While keeping up with news reports in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Oscar-nominated Swiss director Christian Frei began to experience a feeling that those who warned us would eventually be the ones who are blamed. This sentiment, which he calls an epiphany, is at the heart of Blame, which opens Swiss documentary festival Visions du Reel on Friday. Blame follows three scientists who researched the origin of the SARS epidemic that first broke out in China in 2003, Linfa Wang, Zhengli Shi and Peter Daszak. The latter is the former president of EcoHealth Alliance, a nonprofit organization that supported various programs on global health and pandemic prevention, and, in January of this year, was entirely defunded and debarred by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services following an eight-month investigation on its failure to adequately monitor the activities of the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV). More from Variety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freis film begins with the first SARS outbreak in 2003, chronicling how the trio of scientists would come to spend the next two decades trying to stop subsequent pandemics just to be then discredited when disinformation campaigns and fake news on the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread. On the sensitivity of the subject of Blame, Frei tells Variety he became much more comfortable once he decided to approach it as a classic journalistic story. I also wanted it to be told through the empathetic lens of documentary, he adds. I wanted to give the subjects room so their voices would be heard but also resist simplification, which is not the easiest from a commercial point of view. The director recognizes that resisting simplification often dampens a films commercial chances but emphasizes he has a huge advantage of not only working in a country with a healthy film funding system that allows for a director to retain creative control of their film but also being a producer, writer, and editor. I am 100% in control of all my features and am very grateful Im able to do that. Christian Frei (Courtesy of Nina Dick) On being attracted to controversial subjects such as the ethics of war photography as in his Oscar-nominated 2001 film War Photography or space tourism in 2009s Space Tourists, Frei says these are the tectonics of humanity. This is where I will always go. I grew up in a middle-class family and never had any reason to embark from war zones to space, but I am drawn to these stories. What Im proud of is that my films are getting old in a nice way. They are still timely and valid after 30 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked if Blame will also retain its timeliness, the director says he believes so as the film is not only about the COVID-19 pandemic but about how we are all seduced by screaming narratives. The more established media is becoming indistinguishable from the click-baiting internet, he continues. I am trying as much as possible to tell a story that might surprise people because what they encounter are real people, not sinister guys plotting in their labs. We often dont understand what they are doing, thats true, but they are still human beings. Do they make mistakes? Im not saying they never do, but still, we should listen to them. Blame ends with President Trumps recent appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services. Kennedy Jr., who authored Wuhan Cover-Up: How U.S. Health Officials Conspired with the Chinese Military to Hide the Origins of COVID-19, famously spread conspiracy theories on the pandemic, including a theory that the COVID-19 virus was engineered in Wuhan and spared certain ethnic minorities. I was not happy at all that he was finally confirmed but was also not very surprised, says Frei of RFK Jr.s appointment. A majority in Trumps cabinet understood the dynamic that [former White House chief strategist] Steve Bannon established: uncertainty is not our enemy; it is our friend. This is an opportunity for them. Im not saying COVID is the only reason, but could Trump have returned to the White House without it? I doubt it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The director is also quick to point out how this mindset is not exclusive to the U.S. but is also widely spreading in Europe and across the world. Far-right parties in Europe are getting stronger and stronger. Is democracy in bad shape? I sometimes feel so, and I feel we need to find a way back to healthily disagreeing. This film does not offer a truth. What I am saying is: lets try to find our way back to evidence-based worldviews and debates because, in a world where nothing is true anymore, everything becomes possible. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. LAKELAND, Fla. (WFLA) The Blue Angels soared into Lakeland Thursday with a mission of inspiring excellence in the people who watch their gravity-defying skills. We just want whatever folks choose to do with their lives to do it really well and to do it with focus and excellence, Lt. Connor ODonnell said. Lakeland man caught hosting illegal poker games, trying to hide $800K: deputies ODonnell said he was first moved by the Blue Angels as a kid in Maine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats when I saw them first when I was about 10 years old, and that will stick with you as a kid, and thats really what were hoping to do here, he said. He now flies Blue Angel #6 all over the country and, this weekend, at SUN n FUN in Lakeland. Ive heard its huge, and theres tents, ODonnell said. Ive been looking for them. Ive heard people camp out here on the fields. Flying at speeds over 500 miles per hour in tight formations requires months of practice and intense focus during the demonstration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youre just focused on what youre doing at that moment. Not really worried about the next thing, stay in the moment, trust the training, ODonnell said. This is not a place you want to have a bad day. Were all about not only practicing the demo itself but preparing our bodies so good rest, good hydration. At certain times in the demonstration, the F/A-18 jets come close to 18 inches from each other. The planes are unique in that they can fly at high speeds while also maintaining maneuverability. You see the high speed stuff, thats what excites us. But I think a lot of the aviation people around here understand that one of these planes can fly as slow as some of the prop aircraft around here, said Cdr. Adam Bryan, commanding officer and flight leader for the Blue Angels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is Bryans first visit to SUN n FUN. With an air show thats essentially already begun, it makes it quite a unique place to come into. Seeing all the aircraft on the ground excited me a lot when I came in to land, he said. Bryan said his favorite move is the Diamond 360, which is the quintessential, tight maneuver that kicks off the Blue Angels demonstration. Training begins in Pensacola, Florida, in November and then the teams spend 2.5 months in El Centro, California, practicing over the desert. We practice by doing a lot, a lot of repetition. You can think about it like being in the gym. Its a lot of reps and sets over and over again, Bryan said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its all an effort to display excellence. Our job is to inspire those that are watching us to kind of reach for their highest potential, he said. The Blue Angels demonstrations are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday during the daily air shows. To see the schedule, visit https://flysnf.org/activities/airshow/airshow-schedule/. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. U.S. District Court Judge James Boasberg hinted at possible contempt proceedings as he grilled a government lawyer Thursday about whether the Trump administration violated his court order by failing to turn around planes carrying migrants to a Salvadoran prison. Boasberg made no decisions following a court hearing even as he otherwise pushed the administration to detail its timeline and decisionmaking as it loaded more than 200 migrants onto a plane amid a court battle to block the deportations. He pushed back when a Justice Department attorney said the administration followed the law and his orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It seems to me theres a fair likelihood that that is not correct, in fact that the government acted in bad faith throughout that day. If you really believed everything you did that day was legal and could survive a court challenge, I cant believe you ever would have operated the way you did, Boasberg said. He dove into the timeline of the Trump administrations actions, from signing an order igniting the Alien Enemies Act on Friday, March 14, but not publicizing it until the next day to preparations for flights even as Boasberg scheduled a hearing. The law allows the government to swiftly deport citizens of an enemy nation. President Trump has maintained the Tren de Aragua gang is acting at the behest of the Venezuelan government, using the war powers to deport Venezuelans. Its the only time the law has been used to address gang activity. Boasberg noted that he barred the Trump administration from deporting five of the men at 9:40 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, and scheduled hearings for later that day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why when you knew that I was having a hearing why wouldnt the prudent thing be to say, Lets slow down here. Lets see what the judge says. Hes already enjoined the removal of five people, its certainly in the realm of possibility that he would enjoin further removal. Lets see what he says, Boasberg asked. In dispute is whether the government violated an oral order from Boasberg given around 6:45 p.m. that day to halt or turn around any flights carrying migrants. The White House has sought to sidestep that question, saying it complied with a 7:27 p.m. written order. In court, however, they have declined to provide Boasberg with flight details and have asserted the ability to do so under the state secrets privilege. Boasberg on Thursday raised the specter that the administrations delay in publicizing the proclamation could have been trying to put measures in place to get people subject to the proclamation removed from the country before its possible to challenge their deportation and before it could be blocked by a court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drew Ensign, a deputy assistant attorney general, denied that the administration took any actions to flout Boasbergs order and said it was reasonable that the government would have engaged in preparatory action before it began the national security operation. Boasberg also said he asked Ensign point blank whether there were plans to deport migrants in the next 24 or 48 hours. Ensign said while he diligently tried to get that information, he was unable to. At another point, Boasberg noted that eight women and one man were not accepted by El Salvador and were brought back to the U.S., something the judge says shows it was certainly operationally feasible to have returned migrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boasberg also pushed Ensign to break down whom he told about his orders to turn around the planes, but got mixed responses, with the attorney offering some contacts but saying others would be covered by attorney-client privilege. Who made the decision to either not tell the pilots anything, or to tell them to keep going? Id like to know who that was, Boasberg said, noting that the government has argued it was perfectly appropriate to begin preparations for the flights. Who made that perfectly appropriate decision? the judge asked. How should I determine who the contemnor or contemnors are? Ensign said he did not know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boasberg said if he finds probable cause the government violated his order, there would likely be hearings. The hearing then turned to the governments invocation of the state secrets privilege to block the sharing of any flight details with Boasberg. Ensign said he was not aware that the flight information contained any classified information. Boasberg said he was unaware of an instance in which the government declined to share information with a judge that was not classified and said courthouses have special facilities to allow for the review of such sensitive information. The judge added that he was struggling to see how the state secrets privilege could be used for unclassified material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ensign said there would be diplomatic consequences to sharing the information. The American Civil Liberties Union, which has sued over Trumps use of the Alien Enemies Act, said Boasberg could likely determine whether the Trump administration violated his order based only on publicly available information about the flights. Boasberg also referenced the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man and Salvadoran national who was deported under different immigration authorities but likewise taken to the Salvadoran prison. Abrego Garcia was protected from removal by a judges 2019 order, and the Trump administration has said he was deported due to an administrative error. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boasberg highlighted Abrego Garcias wrongful deportation. What you were willing to do by trying to do this as quickly as possible and avoid being enjoined by a court, he said, was to risk putting people on those planes who shouldnt have been on the plane the first place. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. *UPDATE: One of the boaters was found dead. More information here* WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. (WFRV) After a boat capsized Thursday afternoon on the Wisconsin River, leaving two boaters missing, authorities had to cancel their search due to the rivers high flow, but search efforts will continue Friday. According to the Wisconsin Dells Police Department, authorities were called to the Wisconsin River, south of the Kilbourn Dam, around 4:25 p.m. on April 3 after reports of a boat that had capsized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kimberly High Schools athletic trainer returns after life-altering accident Officers say that three people were on the boat at the time of its capsizing. However, one person was able to swim safely to shore and was treated and evaluated at the scene. The two other boaters were not seen after disappearing under the water. Multiple rescue boats and dive teams were immediately called in to begin searching for the two missing boaters. Unfortunately, due to the reportedly high flow of water from the Kilbourn Dam and the fast-moving currents, the divers were not able to dive and search for the missing boaters. As additional resources arrived, boats with sonar capabilities, aerial drones, shoreline searches, and an underwater drone were also deployed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities looking for missing woman from northern Wisconsin, last seen in mid-March The search was ultimately suspended for the safety of search crews due to darkness and the unpredictable flow of the river. It was noted that search efforts will continue Friday morning with additional resources. The Wisconsin Dells Police Department was assisted by the following agencies: Columbia County Dive Team Columbia County Emergency Management Columbia County Sheriffs Office Dells/Delton EMS Delton Fire Department Kilbourn Fire Department Lake Delton Police Department Sauk County Dive Team Sauk County Emergency Management Sauk County Sheriffs Office Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No additional information was provided. Local 5 will provide an update to this story once more details are released. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. Mystic Officials at Mystic Seaport Museum are assessing possible damage to a boat that helped save the lives of hundreds of Danish Jews during World War II. During routine morning rounds Thursday, museum staff members discovered that Gerda III, a 40-foot Danish lighthouse tender and visiting vessel from the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York City, had taken on water at its dock. Because the boat was half submerged, the museums staff contacted the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, which dispatched a team to assess and mitigate any environmental impact, said Sophia Matsas, the museums vice president of marketing and communications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matsas said a barge and crane stabilized and recovered the vessel, which was then towed to the museums Henry B. du Pont Preservation Shipyard for assessment. Matsas said the museum is in close communication with the Museum of Jewish Heritage to coordinate the next steps. Gerda III was among a fleet of workboats used to secretly ferry Danish Jews to Sweden so they could not be persecuted by the Germans who occupied Denmark during World War II. The boats Danish crew is credited with rescuing an estimated 300 Jews in groups of 10 and 15 in 1943, part of the overall effort that helped more than 7,000 people flee Denmark for Sweden. This was more than 90% of the Jews in Denmark at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Restored in Denmark, the boat was donated by the Danish government to the Museum of Jewish Heritage in 1989 and later brought for display and safekeeping at Mystic Seaport Museum. The Museum of Jewish Heritage has been raising funds for its restoration. Additionally, Mystic Seaport Museum launched a PayPal fundraising campaign for the boat earlier this year. The Museum is committed to the responsible stewardship of maritime heritage and will continue to work diligently with all stakeholders to ensure the best possible outcome for Gerda III, Matsas said. The Museum of Jewish Heritage issued a statement Thursday expressing concern about the condition of the boat and called it a powerful symbol of the remarkable rescue efforts undertaken by the Danish people during the Holocaust. The Gerda IIIs story, one of courage, resilience, and solidarity, exemplifies the extraordinary actions of ordinary people who risked their lives to protect their fellow citizens, the statement reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Museum of Jewish Heritage said it will offer support to Mystic Seaport Museum to ensure the Gerda III is fully restored and continues to serve as an educational resource for generations to come. We are thankful to the incredible team in Mystic for their quick response. Without organizations like Mystic Seaport Museum, dedicated to preserving our maritime history, treasures like Gerda III would be lost, the statement reads. To donate toward the preservation and upkeep of the Gerda II, readers can visit https://mysticseaport.org/gerda-iii-danish-lighthouse-tender/. g.smith@theday.com LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A person found dead in the Susquehanna River in Lancaster County was identified as a man who was reported missing in March, officials say. Alexander Neff, 42, of Holtwood, was identified Friday after the coroners office compared dental records of the body found Thursday morning in the river near the Holtwood Dam, according to a report. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Subscribe Now abc27 Evening Newsletter A Friday autopsy found he died from freshwater drowning, and his death has been ruled an accident, according to the coroners office. The coroners office said there was no evidence of trauma at the scene. Pennsylvania State Police put out a missing endangered person advisory for Neff after he was last seen leaving his home in the 1000 block of Holtwood Road in Martic Township on March 11. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Bulgaria supports the further development of partnership relations within the Southern Gas Corridor, said Bulgarian Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov, Trend reports. He made the remarks during the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku. "Bulgaria pursues a consistent policy in the development of gas infrastructure. This policy serves the goals of coordinated interaction within national and European objectives, the formation of a unified pan-European gas market, and ensuring reliable and diversified supply. We reaffirm our commitment to further developing partnership relations within the Southern Gas Corridor," Stankov said. On 4 April, Baku hosts the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting. The event brings together 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, 7 international financial institutions and 42 energy companies. Ministers, deputy ministers and other high-level representatives will participate in the event. Documents related to green energy are scheduled to be signed during the meeting. HONOLULU (KHON2) The National Park Service has released body-worn camera footage of a shooting that occurred in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in early March. The incident happened as police pursued a man that was wanted for shooting at a man then later shooting and killing a 25-year-old woman in Punathe sister of his ex-girlfriend. Big Island man at large after allegedly killing ex-girlfriends sister Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawaii Police tracked Isaiah Kaleo Fourshey to a campground in the national park on March 4 and attempted to detain him but Fourshey tried to get away in his truck, which got stuck. He then ran from officers into a nearby wooded area, officers followed. In the released footage, chatter coming from the NPS officers radio alerts them that Fourshey had a weapon. As the officer approached the wooded area an HPD officer can be heard pleading with Fourshey to stop, not reach with his hands and that they wanted to help him. Court documents detail first day of Big Isle manhunt The verbal exchange lasted several minutes as the officers, both NPS and HPD, shouted commands and Fourshey responded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eventually a taser was deployed by an NPS officer, after which Fourshey is seen pointing his handgun and firing at the officer wearing the body camera. Multiple gunshots are then heard as the officer runs to safety. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Fourshey seemingly survived as officers are heard stating that Fourshey was still moving. He was taken to a medical center in Hilo where he later died. The FBI are investigating the incident. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) Three alleged MS-13 gang members have been federally charged in connection with a killing a decade ago in Florida, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Friday, seeking to highlight the Trump administration's push to prosecute violent gangs. Bondi joined law enforcement officials in Fort Lauderdale to promote the Justice Department's efforts to go after the gang, which the Republican administration has designated a foreign terrorist organization" and has seized on as the threat posed by illegal immigration. More arrests are coming, Bondi said. If you are a gang member living in this country, Id self-deport right now because were coming after you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three alleged gang members are among nine who have been arrested in four killings in South Florida in 2014 and 2015. The three men federally charged last month are accused of participating in the killing of someone who was stabbed about 100 times and then shot, the attorney general said. Jose Ezequiel Gamez-Maravilla and Wilber Rosendo Navarro-Escobar were arrested in Florida. Hugo Adiel Bermudez-Martinez was arrested in Minnesota. Emails seeking comment were sent to attorneys for the men. The violent killings in South Florida were carried out using knives or machetes, authorities say. The cases were reopened in 2020 after going cold, and one of the investigations led to a multi-day excavation to recover the body of Joel Canizales-Lara in 2021, after he was reported missing in 2014. The announcement comes a week after Bondi lauded the arrest of the alleged East Coast leader of the MS-13 gang. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the past decade, the Justice Department has intensified its focus on MS-13, which originated as a neighborhood street gang in Los Angeles but grew into a transnational gang based in El Salvador. The gang has members in Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico and thousands of members across the U.S. with numerous branches or cliques. ___ Associated Press reporter Alanna Durkin Richer in Washington contributed. A new book, Beyond Belief: True Stories of Indiana Heroes that Defy Comprehension, profiles over 200 Indiana veterans ranging from the Civil War to the War on Terror. It includes a forward from Senator Todd Young. Compiled by the husband-and-wife team of C. Douglas and Pamela M. Sterner, the 500-plus page book features veterans from across the state including Logansport, Kokomo and Peru. The book is the 120th that C. Douglas Sterner has worked on and is an anthology. Sterner said he wrote 70 percent of the profiles inside it and has a team that helps him. He stressed focus on the book, the ninth in a series he hopes will include all 50 states, should be on the veterans and not the people who assemble the collection of profiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previous books were more focused on a specific branch of the military but he was inspired to do statewide collections when he wanted to write about the two men, one an army veteran and the other a Navy petty officer, who stopped a mass shooting at Club Q in Colorado Springs. I was going to write their story but it didnt quite fit the format of my books so I decided I was just going to do a book on Colorado heroes, Sterner said. The book opens with Lieutenant Richard Antrim, a native of Peru, Indiana. Sterner chose Antrims story to open the book because it was a story that had stuck with him for 27 years. Antrim received multiple military honors for his bravery and leadership during WWII and as a Japanese prisoner of war for over three years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We think of heroes as being the guy who goes and knocks out a machine gun nest, Sterner said. What Richard Antrim did was just an amazing act to save the life of a fellow soldier. He said that his desire to share Antrims story was one of the reason Indiana was one of the first 10 books in the series. Antrims story began when he saved all but one of his crew members from the sinking U.S.S. Pope. The crew drifted in life boats for three days only to be found by a Japanese warship and taken prisoner. One story of bravery had Antrim convincing his Japanese captors of a better way to construct trenches. From the surface, Antrims work looked good but when flying overhead, one could see the series of trenches spelled out U.S. Thus, Allied fighter pilots knew not to bomb the site because there were prisoners below. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of Antrims fellow prisoners recalled a night in April of 1942 when Antrim watched one of his men receive a severe beating for a perceived slight from a Japanese guard. Antrim begged for mercy toward his friend only to see the Japanese soldiers decide to have a trial. The Japanese soldiers decided Antrims friend was indeed guilty and would now receive 50 lashes. As Antrim proceeded to watch the soldiers beat his friend, he reportedly raised his voice and demanded that he receive the remainder of his friends lashes. The unexpected show of strength rattled the guards and the beating seized. The story goes that the POWs received better treatment for some time following the incident. Antrim was also present at the Hindenburg disaster prior to the war. The book details other Hoosier heroes such as Logansports Ora J. Cohee. Cohee, a 1905 Logansport High School graduate, was a first lieutenant and chaplain for the 34th Infantry Regiment when he was deployed to France in 1918. He saved two soldiers during a battle by carrying one over his shoulder while helping carry a stretcher with his free hand. He would go on to serve in WWII as Theater Chaplain for the Pacific Ocean areas. Cohee became known as Indianas Fighting Chaplain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Raymond Lanterman was an artist who graduated Kokomo High School in 1934. In 1940, he left his art career behind in Chicago and returned to Kokomo to enlist. He was assigned to the Schofield Barracks in Hawaii where he was a witness to the Pearl Harbor bombing on Dec. 7, 1941. Lanternman felt his art background would prove useful in mapmaking and engineering and he was sent to the Corps of Engineers School in Virginia. He was one of the first soldiers to land on the beaches on D-Day with the mission to clear mines and obstacles for the incoming infantry. When Lanternman witnessed one of his engineers shot while working to create a safe passage for the soldiers, he ran out into the open beach to continue doing the engineers work until he, too, was struck down by gunfire. He survived and that night he was finally able to be evacuated to safety. Other local and regional heroes featured in the book include William Kepner (Kokomo), William Horney (Logansport), Hiram Bearss (Peru), Thomas Garigan (Winamac) and Paul Carlton (Bunker Hill). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sterner said the Indiana book brought a couple of surprises that hadnt happened before. One, a veterans daughter contributed her fathers story to the book. Crawfordsvilles Michael Shropshire, Indianas first highly decorated veteran during the War on Terror, also provided a first-person account of his experiences. It took approximately two months to compile the book. He hopes to publish two books in the series per year. Sterner and his crews efforts have already led to one of the Hoosier heroes receiving a new honor. Logansports Cohee will become the oldest member of the Logansport High School Military Wall of Honor. Cohee passed away in 1960 while living in Texas. Sterner served in Vietnam and two months after he returned home, he discovered his best friend, Specialist Fourth Class Jaime Pacheco of Hobb, New Mexico, had been killed in combat. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was determined to make sure he was never forgotten, he said. It was my motivation to start doing these other stories. Ive been told this is how I deal with my PTSD by writing the stories of my comrades to make sure they are never forgotten. Those interested in ordering a copy of Beyond Belief: True Stories of Indiana Heroes that Defy Comprehension may do so by visiting herobooks.org. The book is also available on Amazon for $19.95. BOSSIER PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS)Bossier Parish Community College is celebrating its students artistic and literary achievements. The Division of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (AHSS) will host a reception and awards presentation for Savoir Faire, Volume 67, an art and literature exhibit and magazine showcasing the work of BPCC students. Savoir Faire will highlight the creativity of the schools most talented students. To qualify for inclusion, students must submit their work, which is evaluated by a panel of qualified judges who carefully select the top submissions. Seven BPCC students advance to Nationals at Louisiana State SkillsUSA competition Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are incredibly proud of the students whose work is featured in Savoir Faire this year, said Mary Adams, Dean of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at BPCC. Adams stated that this exhibit will provide students with a platform to share their voices and creativity with the community. The reception and awards presentation will take place on Thursday, April 24, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. in the Donna Service Gallery at BPCC. The exhibit will be on display until May 5, and visitors are welcome to view it during regular business hours.. For more information, visit https://www.bpcc.edu/savoirfaire. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BOWIE, Md. (DC News Now) The Bowie Police Department (BPD) said it is trying to recover some items that were stolen out of a marked police cruiser. Man charged with murder in Suitland shooting that left 2 dead, 1 hurt BPD said a Morningside Police badge, an Axon TASER, ballistic vest and an Axon body camera was taken out of a police cruiser in the 16500 block of Governors Bridge Road in Bowie. (Courtesy: Bowie Police Department) Anyone with information is asked to call (240) 544-5700. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. A 16-year-old boy is missing after he got into difficulty in a lake in south-east London, the Metropolitan Police said. Officers and paramedics were called to Beckenham Place Park in Lewisham on Friday shortly after 3pm. A Met Police spokesman said: A 16-year-old boy is believed to have got into difficulty in the water and is now missing. Emergency services continued the search for the teenager into the late evening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The park was evacuated and police have informed the boys next of kin, who are being supported by specialist officers. London Ambulance Service said an ambulance crew, an incident response officer and members of its hazardous area response team had been dispatched. We are still at the scene working alongside our emergency services partners, the spokesman added. Warm weather leads to spate of incidents Over the past week, there have been a number of incidents of children going missing in open bodies of water, coinciding with the warmer weather. On Thursday night, Cambridgeshire Police recovered the body of a 16-year-old boy from a lake in Peterborough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He had been swimming in Crown Lakes in Farcet when he got into difficulty at around 4pm on Thursday. The force said search teams recovered his body from the lake just before midnight. A spokesman said: While formal identification is yet to take place, it is believed to be that of the missing boy and his family has been notified. This case will now be handed to the coroner. Elsewhere, an 11-year-old girl is missing after she was last seen paddling in the Thames on Monday afternoon. Kaliyah Coa had been playing with friends during a school inset day when she entered the river near Barge House Causeway, near Woolwich, east London. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A police spokesman confirmed on Friday night that active searches for Kaliyah had stopped. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL) Three brothers and boy scouts who saved their neighborhood by alert first responders to a brush fire in March have been named Piedmont Columbus Regionals First Friday Heroes. According to Piedmont, a brush fire broke out in early March in a neighborhood off Wire Road in Auburn. Matt, Cody and Bryce Jordan were at home when Cody spotted the fire across the pond in their Silos at Conway neighborhood. Cody told his older brothers, Bryce and Matt, who called 911. The fire department arrived and got the fire under control before it did any damage to homes in a trailer park on the other side of the pond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Jordan brothers are being commended for their response by the Auburn Fire and EMS Station 1. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. Apr. 4Despite recent reports to the contrary, American tourists bringing food items into Canada for personal use won't have to pay tariffs on those groceries when they venture north for fishing, hunting or other outdoors adventures. That's good news. There had been numerous reports, both in traditional and social media, that Canada would impose a 25% tariff on food items brought into the country for personal use as a result of the tariffs U.S. President Donald Trump has placed on Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is not the case, Laurie Marcil, executive director of the Northern Ontario Tourist Outfitters Association (NOTO) in North Bay, Ontario, said in an email to the Grand Forks Herald. Tariffs won't be applied to grocery items brought from the U.S. into Canada as a result of Trump's tariffs, Marcil said. "We have confirmed that the personal exemptions that are set out in regulation include any surtax (including tariffs, duties and taxes)," Marcil said. "And therefore, grocery items brought into Canada from U.S. travelers will not be subject to the 25% tariffs as long as the total amount brought in 'makes sense' or is appropriate for the amount of time the guests will be in Canada." Business as usual, in other words. According to Marcil, NOTO originally had heard from several border crossings that all groceries entering Canada would be subject to the tariffs. That would have required Americans bringing groceries into Canada to provide receipts for Canada Border Services Agency officers to determine how much duty would have to be paid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That likely would have resulted in long lines and wait times at the Canadian border, especially at busy crossings such as Fort Frances, Ontario. The other option, of course, would have been for U.S. tourists to buy their groceries in Canada to avoid paying duty at the border. Considering a U.S. dollar is worth about $1.43 Canadian give or take a cent or two the price difference is likely minimal. That being said, as a fisherman who has taken more than 25 DIY (do-it-yourself) Canadian fly-in fishing trips over the years, I can attest that buying groceries ahead of time or in some cases, preparing dishes in advance to heat up later makes planning and packing considerably easier. In that context, NOTO's confirmation that Canada is not requiring U.S. tourists to pay a surtax on groceries brought into the country for personal use is welcome news indeed. In her email, Marcil said colleagues from the Tourism Industry Association of Canada reached out to senior levels of CBSA for clarification on the rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We ... have since confirmed with the border crossings that the application of the tariffs at the crossings on visitors' grocery items will not happen," Marcil said. That applies to border crossings across Canada, she added. As always, food limits continue to apply for dairy and meat products being brought into Canada for personal use. For more information, check out the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) website at https://inspection.canada.ca/en/importing-food-plants-animals/airs . Visitors entering Canada from the U.S. also are limited to no more than: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * 1.5 liters (L) of wine, or 1.14 L of spirits, or 1.14 L of wine and spirits, or 8.5 L of beer or ale. * 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams of manufactured tobacco and 200 tobacco sticks. * 200 rounds of ammunition or, if they are for the use of that person at a meet held under the auspices of a recognized shooting or rifle association of Canada, 1,500 rounds of ammunition. As for me, I'll err on the side of caution when bringing groceries across the border and keep receipts handy just in case. And as always, be aware and declare. And now, from the "Better Late Than Never" department, there's this: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two weeks ago, while working on a story about the five-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the outdoors then and now, I reached out to Kristin Byram, the strategic communications chief for the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, for numbers on state park visitations since 2020. I didn't hear back. While the deadline for the story which appeared online Friday, March 21, and ran in print Saturday, March 22 had long since passed, I circled back again this week to see if Byram could provide the numbers. She got back to me this time and apologized for the "delayed response." As I expected, the numbers followed a familiar trend: Record or near-record levels of participation in 2020, when the outdoors provided an important outlet for pandemic-weary people looking for something to do, followed by a slight decline in the ensuing years. Here, then, are North Dakota state park visitation numbers since 2020. * 2020: 1,296,508. * 2021: 1,292,896. * 2022: 1,135,538. * 2023: 1,236,527. * 2024: 1,195,907. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. The Southern Gas Corridor is an excellent example of joint efforts to achieve shared goals, said Georgias Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Vakhtang Tsintsadze, Trend reports. He made the remarks during the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku. "Georgias energy strategy aligns with global sustainable development goals, emphasizing our commitment to reducing carbon emissions while ensuring energy security. Supporting the optimal development of Georgias abundant water, wind, and solar energy resources is crucial for advancing the renewable energy sector. For this reason, we actively support investments in green energy infrastructure. Alongside the Southern Gas Corridor, the Black Sea Submarine Energy Cable project is an excellent example of our joint efforts to achieve shared goals, noted Tsintsadze. The 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting are underway in Baku. The event brings together 24 countries, including Azerbaijan and the European Union, 7 international financial institutions and 42 energy companies. Ministers, deputy ministers and other high-level representatives will participate in the event. Documents related to green energy are scheduled to be signed during the meeting. SPENCER, Iowa (KCAU) Nearly 10 months ago, the town of Spencer was hit by historic flooding, destroying many peoples homes. While the community is still recovering, efforts are underway to build several new apartment buildings for residents. Many of the buildings impacted by the flooding will soon be torn down and rebuilt. Many Spencer businesses to receive funds to replace items after flooding The vast majority of the apartment complexes in Spencer were in the area of town that was most significantly hit by the flooding, said Jason Warren, vice president of the Spencer Economic Development Corporation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On 1st and 2nd Avenue Southwest sit several apartment buildings that have been abandoned since last June. There are seven buildings each, Warren said. Each building has four units in them, so there were a total of 28 units. Significantly damaged. All would be considered total losses. The Spencer Economic Development Corporation purchased the buildings for $50,000 each. They will soon be repurposed for the community. Well do a full demo of those seven buildings, and then were going to start redeveloping that area, Warren said. Brand-new state-of-the-art facilities. Theyll also follow the FEMA guidelines for what the apartment buildings need to be, so theyll have garages on the bottom floor and then the living spaces will be up above. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say this is an important project for Spencer. Its filling an immediate need for the City of Spencer, which is going to be filling some housing rental units that we desperately need right now, Warren said. Its also going to be laying a foundation for the long-term revitalization of that neighborhood. Remarkable Women: Terri Batschelet leads Clay County during flood recovery The Spencer Economic Development Corporation says the project will take time to be completed. Were in the very early stages of this, Warren said. What were going to do is were going to work with each individual developer and let the developer kind of work through the plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demolition is expected to begin in the late spring this year and be finished in the early summer. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. Updated as of 4/4/2025 at 4:00 p.m. ET The former cop who was charged in the fatal shooting of a Black man on his front lawn during a towing dispute just got some more bad news beyond his firing from the department. Now, his fate lies with a jury. As expected, ex-officer Mac Bailey Marquette tried to use his stand your ground rights and qualified immunity privileges as law enforcement to exempt him from prosecution in the 2023 shooting death of Steven Perkins. However, NBC reports that argument fell flat for him in court as Morgan County Circuit Judge Charles Elliott ruled against the self-defense bit, writing that Perkins committed no crime at the time of the officers arrival on his property and noted that the cop was not allowed to be involved in the repossession of Perkins vehicle anyway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marquette was fired from the Decatur Police Department following the incident. Now, hes is headed to trial in June so a jury can decide whether he was justified in the shooting. What Happened? Marquette was identified as the officer who responded to Perkins home the evening of September 29, 2023. Authorities say a tow truck driver called the cops to report that Perkins allegedly threatened him with a firearm while he tried to repossess his truck. In home surveillance footage from a neighbors house, Marquette is seen sneaking from around the back of Perkins home as the tow truck attempted to take the vehicle again. Within seconds of seeing Perkins emerge from inside the home with his firearm, Marquette announced himself but shot him before Perkins had a chance to respond. The 23-year-old ex-cop was one of three officers fired in connection to the incident and a fourth was suspended. Marquette was only on the force since 2020. Now, he is facing a murder charge. Read more from WAAY TV: Mac Bailey Marquette, 23, entered the plea Wednesday. He also waived his March 4 arraignment hearing. Liz Young, Marquettes lawyer, released this statement Friday: Officer Marquette was serving his community as a police officer on September 29, 2023, when he acted in defense of his life and others. We are disappointed he is being prosecuted for such a clear case of self-defense and justified force. Officer Marquette adamantly denies any wrongdoing and his defense team will work zealously on his behalf. Perkins family maintained in a previous statement that the car payments were up to date, which they said means the vehicle should not have been towed. Marquette previously pleaded not guilty to the murder charge he faces. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) Law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in Wichita County continue their joint effort to fight back against the rising number of fentanyl overdose deaths in the community. According to the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, overdose deaths involving fentanyl in Texas jumped from 333 in 2019 to 1,662 in 2021, marking an increase of over 400 percent in just two years. BREAKING FENTANYLS GRIP: Wichita Falls mother still mourns childs fentanyl overdose death Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The percentage of unintentional synthetic opioid overdose deaths attributed to fentanyl rose from 69 percent in 2018, increasing every year until reaching 97 percent in 2022, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. In Wichita County, the increase in fentanyl overdose deaths was seen in the community. John Gillespie, Wichita County District Attorney, said drug surges arent all that uncommon, but none have been quite as lethal as fentanyl. We started going to one call after another after another with these fentanyl overdoses, Gillespie said. In 25 years, Ive never seen anything like that. Sgt. Brett Keith with the Wichita Falls Police Department said what separates fentanyl from other drug overdoses is the amount that ends in death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lethality of fentanyl has been so much different than any other drug weve ever seen, Sgt. Keith said. Once it gets over here, it just spreads like wildfire, overnight. According to local officials, police investigated 53 overdoses suspected to be linked to fentanyl in the first six months of 2022, with over a dozen of those cases involving the death of the user. By September 2022, the fire of fentanyl was raging in Wichita County, with three fentanyl-related deaths of individuals in their teens and early 20s in a single weekend. BREAKING FENTANYLS GRIP: The dangers and efforts of relief Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats what led to us sitting down and saying we need a specific strategy to attack this, Gillespie said. It was alarming enough to prompt state lawmakers to take action. But even before the passage of House Bill 6 by Gov. Greg Abbott in 2023, law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in Wichita County joined forces and took the fight against fentanyl into their own hands. The Wichita County District Attorneys Office, WFPD, and several other local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies began a multi-front battle against fentanyl beginning in 2022. Its a team approach, Gillespie said. We have very strong collaboration among the various agencies in Wichita County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The joint effort put boots on the ground in the streets of Wichita Falls, tracing overdose cases to a dealer and, if possible, a supplier. Anytime you can keep moving up that chain, thats the goal, Sgt. Keith said. To arrest and prosecute as many of those people that we can. READ MORE: Texoma courtrooms busy during spring, summer months The effort led to several major drug busts over the last five years. Sgt. Keith said WFPD Special Operations seized around 14 pounds (6,300 grams) of fentanyl in 2024 alone, likely taking millions of potentially lethal doses off local streets. But the battle didnt end with arrests and seized fentanyl. It continued in Wichita County district courts, with prosecutors bringing murder charges against dealers who sold fentanyl to users who later died from an overdose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When people hear murder, they think, oh, an intentional crime, somebody shoots somebody, somebody stabs somebody, Gillespie said. There are different ways to commit murder in the state of Texas. Before the passage of House Bill 6, there wasnt a legal precedent for prosecuting a dealer for a fentanyl overdose, but that didnt stop Gillespie and the District Attorneys Office from bringing murder charges against dealers. Wichita County became a statewide standard for prosecuting fentanyl-related murder cases after the landmark trial of Jasinto Jimenez, who was found guilty and sentenced to 45 years in prison for selling fentanyl that was later ingested by Andres Diaz, leading to his death. The first step for prosecutors was tracing the lethal drug back to Jimenez. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ MORE: New tool launched to prevent fentanyl poisonings in Texas We have to be able to say the fentanyl that was dealt is the fentanyl that caused the overdose, Gillespie said. In Jimenezs case, the fentanyl was sold to Leigha Smith, who later gave the pill to Diaz. According to Gillespie, even though it wasnt Jimenez who directly gave Diaz the drug, he wasnt off the hook. In Texas, you have concurrent causation, Gillespie said. Just because somebody else is involved in a crime, that doesnt prevent somebody else from being responsible. Then, prosecutors had to prove that Jimenez knew how dangerous fentanyl was. Gillespie touched on this when he wrote about the trial in The Texas Prosecutor, a quarterly publication and the official journal of the Texas District and County Attorneys Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, the conviction and sentence were appealed by Jimenez, with the Second Court of Appeals affirming the trial courts judgment. According to Gillespie, the Jimenez verdict gave local prosecutors another weapon to wield. It strengthens our hand in plea negotiations, Gillespie said. Weve had some really solid pleas that have come out of fentanyl-type cases. Gillespie said the message it sends to potential dealers and suppliers in the area is loud and clear. If you want to take the chance of dealing [fentanyl] in our community, you may find yourself charged with murder, Gillespie said. That message got out on the streets. Word got out there that you dont want to deal fentanyl in Wichita County. And that has been really helpful to choke off a lot of the supply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sgt. Keith said the lower supply of fentanyl has led to fewer overdose deaths in recent years. Despite the strides that have been made, the fight against fentanyl is far from over. However, local law enforcement officials are ready on multiple fronts, ready to fight as many battles as it takes. Were serious about it, law enforcement is serious about it, and juries and judges are serious about this, Gillespie said. Prosecutors arent slowing down, either. Two more fentanyl-related murder cases are currently on the docket. Brandon Curry and Jakob Blankenship are both currently set for trial in the 78th District Court in the coming months. This is a developing story. Stick with Texomas Homepage for updates as more information becomes available. All individuals charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. BRIDGEPORT A investigation into the city of Bridgeports work culture in February ended with city Council terminating city Manager Patrick Ford at a special session Thursday evening. Two competing narratives have developed around the investigation. Ford alleged the investigation found what was causing serious problems in the city governments work culture, which resulted in Mayor Andy Lang charging into Fords office to tell him he was going to be terminated. Lang, however, accused Ford of hiring an outside law firm without Councils approval and allowing legal costs to escalate up to $70,000. The council chamber, which was packed to standing room only, was firmly on Fords side. The speed and circumstances behind the termination lent itself to much skepticism on the publics behalf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This process is questionable, Bridgeport resident Chris Kinney said. Lets just say that. Ford first learned of Councils intent to terminate him on March 31. Despite public attempts to fight for his job throughout the week, Council terminated him with a 5-1 vote. To add to the sting of the move to terminate him, Ford argued he had accomplished four of the five tasks Council assigned him when they hired him less than half a year. Ford brought a packet which he made his case with, which aside from containing a petition with a 94% signature rate, also contained the results of the investigation in a second envelope. Lang at first refused to allow Ford to make his case in front of Council, but relented to public pressure. Ford took the opportunity to brandish the sealed investigation, calling for it to be released. Ford also asked Lang to allow residents two minutes each to speak, but Lang denied the request, angering the public. The petition itself contained the signatures of 73 employees out of 78 who were approached. Both the Police Chief and Fire Chief signed petitions, however, individual members of the fire department declined to sign due to civil service rules. Work shifts precluded some employees from signing, while the superintendent of the Wastewater Treatment Plant would not allow the petition to be disseminated to employees. Parks and Recreation and the Bridge did not receive signature requests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Councilmember Don Burton said 40 of the signatures were illegible, which disqualified the petition. His comment earned much public criticism. Ford accused Council of trying to erase the voices of city employees. Lang hinted at the nature of the investigation, which he said was confidential until Ford disclosed its existence by way of social media. Pertains only to a former employee who has threatened litigation but not filed a lawsuit, he said. Lang added Council ultimately gave approval for Fords investigation, with a budget not to exceed $25,000. He said Ford allowed the cost to escalate without seeking further approval from council. The amount expended did not complete the investigation, Lang said. Council asked for this report, it be stopped now because of the cost we wanted to be able to take time to see that a cost and benefit analysis be done to decide whether to continue spending money on the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ford provided the letter of intent the city signed with Flannery Georgalis LLC. The city received the intent letter from the law firm on Feb. 8. Council agreed to the letters terms on Feb. 10, the date Fords signature appears on the letter. The letter lays out the fee structure, capped the amount of fees and expenses at $5,000, after which the city manager will seek authority from Council for further expenditure. A second letter dated Feb. 12 changes the fee terms, reflecting the authorization Council gave to spend up to $25,000 on the investigation. The letter states it is understood the city Manager will seek additional funding authority, in up to $25,000 increments, from city council as necessary to ensure a reasonably complete and thorough investigation. Lang accused Ford of hiring an out of state law firm to head the investigation, but Fords wife pointed out after the meeting that the firm has an office in West Virginia. The firms website shows it has a Morgantown office that also serves Martinsburg and Clarksburg, where former U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld is the partner in charge. Ford hired Ihlenfeld to do the investigation. Ford told council members one of the tasks he was charged with was to get to the root of the drama at city government. In getting to the roots of the drama in the office, I pierced the veil of the culture In the city of Bridgeport, Ford said. Only William Ihlenfeld could investigate and navigate these waters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the practice areas Flannery Georgalis LLC.s include are White Collar work like financial regulatory compliance and corporate investigations and litigation such as general criminal defense and critical motions and appeals. Councilmember Jason Campbell, the lone dissenter on the vote to fire, said he was ready to go along with Langs push to terminate Ford until he talked to a Bridgeport Police officer who told him Ford was a breath of fresh air. After some reevaluation, Campbell decided to back Ford. He pointed out Ford hasnt even had his six month evaluation, and that the city has been through three city managers in four yours. Ford makes a quartet. With municipal elections close at hand over the summer, he urged Council to consider if they wanted to saddle the next Council with the task of finding a new city manager. Kinney, a Bridgeport resident, felt Council completely discounted the public through their termination process and failed to be transparent. Its so easy to hide behind this confidentiality thing, thats the issue I have with this, he said. This is awfully quick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kinney was able to make his thoughts known as council members fled the chamber full of irate residents. Lang lingered behind, taking in some of the criticism. Ford fears for the future of Bridgeport. Kinney expects the fallout from Fords termination to have consequences in the municipal election, a prediction which many residents told Lang they were eager to actualize once the meeting adjourned. Kinney said Clayton Rice, who voted to remove Ford, is running for mayor next. Campbell is also up for reelection. Pat, I am sorry, Campbell said. I say that as a representative of city council. But I also say on behalf of each and every one of you that are here to support Pat. This is a stain. A black eye, on the City of Bridgeport. If there is one mission which Sir Keir Starmer pursues with Churchillian resolve, it is the sacred quest to relinquish British territory in the Indian Ocean. No consideration of strategy or ethics let alone poor bedraggled national interest will be allowed to stand in the way. Britain will sacrifice the Chagos Islands to Mauritius and pay an annual 90 million for the privilege. We will run all the risks of transferring sovereignty over the Anglo-American base on the largest island, Diego Garcia. And we will wrong the Chagos Islanders yet again. Now that Donald Trump has approved the agreement doubtless because America is determined to carry on operating the base regardless this farcical diplomacy may be unstoppable. The real significance of this episode is what it discloses about the mentality of our rulers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Remember that Lord Hermer, the Attorney General, said last year that Britain must not just obey international law but go further than simply meeting our obligations. No court has ever ruled that Britain should relinquish the Chagos Islands; there is only a non-binding advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice to that effect. Our Government is choosing to treat this as if it were binding. The consequence of Hermer-ism is that Britain will be the first country ever to sacrifice sovereign territory due to an advisory ICJ opinion. Lord Hermer, filled with the absurd narcissism of post-colonial guilt, thinks the rest of the world will be suitably impressed. In fact, Britain will become a soft target for any former colony with a contrived grievance. Now all they need is a non-binding advisory opinion whereupon Lord Hermer will solemnly advise that we should give way. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A British woman was found guilty Friday of breaching a buffer zone outside a UK abortion clinic, in a case that attracted concern from the Trump administration over freedom of expression in the country. Livia Tossici-Bolt, 64, from Bournemouth, a town on the southern English coast, was convicted of two charges of breaching the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), legislation prohibiting protests near abortion services, on two days in March 2023. Tossici-Bolt, an anti-abortion campaigner and retired medical scientist, held a sign outside a Bournemouth abortion clinic reading, Here to talk, if you want. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement District judge Orla Austin told Poole Magistrates Court that Tossici-Bolt lacks insight that her presence could have a detrimental effect on the women attending the clinic, their associates, staff and members of the public, British news agency PA Media reported. The judge added that although its accepted this defendant held pro-life views, its important to note this case is not about the rights and wrongs about abortion but about whether the defendant was in breach of the PSPO (Public Spaces Protection Order). Tossici-Bolts case attracted attention from the US State Department at a time when Washington has voiced concerns over free speech in the UK and other European countries. U.S.-UK relations share a mutual respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. However, as Vice President Vance has said, we are concerned about freedom of expression in the United Kingdom, Americas Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights & Labour (DRL), a bureau of the US State Department, wrote on X on Sunday, ahead of the ruling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DRL added that one of its advisers had met with Tossici-Bolt, and that it was monitoring her case. US Vice-President JD Vance has previously criticized UK policies including safe access zones around abortion clinics, saying they restrict freedom of speech. During a speech at the Munich Security Conference in February, Vance cited the example of a man arrested for praying near an abortion clinic. In Britain and across Europe, free speech, I fear, is in retreat, he told the conference. During his speech at the Munich Security Conference in February, JD Vance cited the example of a man arrested for praying near an abortion clinic. - Leah Millis/Reuters The UK government has pushed back at Vances suggestion, denying that the issue could jeopardize efforts to strike a trade deal with an administration that has imposed sweeping tariffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The (prime minister) has been clear, including during his visit to the White House that the UK has had free speech in this country for a long time and we are proud of that, UK PM Keir Starmers spokesperson, Jonathan Reynolds, said on Tuesday. Britian introduced safe access buffer zones around abortion clinics in the UK on October 31. The law applies within a 150-meter radius of the abortion service provider. The right to access abortion services is a fundamental right for women in this country, and no one should feel unsafe when they seek to access this, the UKs safeguarding minister, Jess Phillips, said at the time. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com As both Brock Horners attorney and his friend, I want to address the recent video that has circulated widely online, showing an intense exchange between Brock and a young man named Gage. First and foremost, Brock sincerely apologizes to Gage, to Gages family, and to anyone who was frightened or upset by what they saw. He is deeply sorry. What began as a moment of frustration and concern escalated in a way it simply should not have. Gage handled the situation with impressive composure and class, and that level-headedness helped prevent things from becoming far worse. Brock is not proud of how he acted. But its important to remember: we are not the sum of our worst day. That video captured one momentnot the whole of who he is. Since the video went viral, Brocks business has been destroyed, his reputation damaged, and his family including his wife and motherhave been harassed and even threatened. Some have gone so far as to question his military service and accuse him of stolen valor. Let me be clear: Brock is a decorated combat veteran who was severely injured in Afghanistan. He served honorably, earned multiple medals, and suffered a traumatic brain injury in combat. He is recognized as 100% disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Thats not an excuse but it is part of his story. He stood up when this country asked him to, and that service deserves to be respected. We live in a time when online outrage can quickly spiral into personal destruction. But just as Gage showed grace in the moment, I ask others to do the same now. Lets hold people accountable but also give them room to grow and make amends. Brock is committed to doing exactly that. Is Brock Horner the best charter captain you'll ever meet in your (expletive) life? He may be the most obscene, and he's about to be the most famous. Horner, the owner of Tarpon Coast Fishing Charters in Punta Gorda, is going viral after a young fisherman, Gage Towles, posted video of the older captain yelling at him across the water, apparently mistaking him for another boater, before jumping from his boat into Towles' and taking off with the younger man still aboard. Towles, who had been steadily trying to calm the man down during the nearly five-minute exchange, offered panicky apologies until Horner allowed him to take the wheel again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Punta Gorda Police Department, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg are investigating the incident. Horner has apologized. In a statement released to Gulf Coast News, his attorney, Scott Weinberg, said, "First and foremost, Brock sincerely apologizes to Gage, to Gages family, and to anyone who was frightened or upset by what they saw. He is deeply sorry. What began as a moment of frustration and concern escalated in a way it simply should not have. "Gage handled the situation with impressive composure and class, and that level-headedness helped prevent things from becoming far worse," Weinberg said, and added that Brock's business and reputation have been destroyed and his family harassed. Here's what we know. What did Captain Brock Horner do? In the video titled "Charter captain jumps on my boat and tries to fight me for no reason" posted to social media this week, Towles, 22, was fishing alone under the Barron Collier Bridge in the early hours of Tuesday, April 1. In the video, Horner, 40, and four other men in a boat pulled up nearby. Horner called over to Towles, asking if he was the kid who "cussed at him" earlier and Towles said no. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Horner, unconvinced, continued to scream at Towles for not having his lights on earlier. Towles replied calmly that Horner had him confused with someone else but that Horner can't come "flying through the bridge area," which apparently infuriated Horner even more. At one point, Horner asked the younger man if he "wants to (expletive) go." Towles responded, "I don't wanna go ... I want you to get the (expletive) out of here." He reminded Horner that he was the one who pulled up on Towles, when he was just trying to fish. Towles asked if Horner was trying to "act like a tough guy in front of your buddies," and Horner said that he and his friends are veterans. Still calm, Towles thanked him for his service and tried to go back to fishing. But Horner continued swearing and yelling at Towles for not having his lights on and ignoring Towles' repeated denials. "I'm sorry, I don't know if that's what you want to hear, bro," he told Horner, and pointed out that the other boater cursed at Horner for almost hitting him when he came through. But Horner didn't stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Horner's boat moved closer, he yelled at Towles, saying he was the "best charter captain you will ever meet in your (expletive) life," a line that has now gone viral on social media. And then he escalated. Brock jumps onboard and takes over Towles' boat When Horner's boat got close enough, he jumped from one to the other and hit the throttle, sending Towles' boat racing off with both men in it. Towles, who had remained calm and mostly conciliatory during the encounter, finally started to panic. "Chill bro, chill bro please!" he yelled repeatedly, as he quickly moved as far as he could away from Horner in the small craft, followed by "I'm a kid bro, I'm a kid." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Horner continued yelling and telling him to apologize which Towles did, repeatedly and a bit frantically until Horner let him take the wheel and head back to Horner's boat. "Do it (expletive) again, and watch what happens," he said. Throughout the encounter, the other four men on Horner's boat remained stone-faced, with one man facing away during the entire incident. Boat rage captain goes viral Since the video was posted on Facebook it has been watched more than 12 million times as of Friday morning, with over 41,000 comments. Towles also posted it on YouTube Thursday, where it's gotten 216,000 views as of Friday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I never wanted to post this video in the first place because it made me feel so weak," Towles wrote in the description. "But I was already having a horrible day and this iced the cake. I look at it now like I possibly can save another person from Brock Horner or possibly someones life by getting this captain off the water." Parody accounts have been created for Horner and internet sleuths are digging into his criminal background. The Fisherman's Village in Punta Gorda announced it has severed ties with him, and Pathfinder Boats, makers of the craft Horner uses, distanced themselves from him, saying his actions did not reflect their values. North Port Fire Rescue, responding to reports that one of their firefighters was aboard Horner's boat, is looking into it. Who is Brock Horner? Captain Brock Horner is the owner of Tarpon Coast Fishing Charters in Punta Gorda. According to an archived copy of his company's website, now offline, he was born in Port Charlotte and is a 6th-generation Florida native and a saltwater fishing tournament champion, with over 25 years of experience in fishing. Brock pilots a 2024 27 2700 Pathfinder Hybrid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brock's page said he is a Florida Gulf Coast University graduate and was a U.S. Army Ranger Veteran (Paratrooper) in Iraq certified in CPR, AED and Pediatrics. "Brock is a decorated combat veteran who was severely injured in Afghanistan," Weinberg said. "He served honorably, earned multiple medals, and suffered a traumatic brain injury in combat. He is recognized as 100% disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs. "Thats not an excuse but it is part of his story. He stood up when this country asked him to, and that service deserves to be respected." Where is Punta Gorda, Florida? Punta Gorda is the county seat of Charlotte County on the west coast of the state, on the south bank of the Peace Riover and the eastern shore of Charlotte Harbor, an arm of the Gulf of America (until recently the Gulf of Mexico). It's about 24 miles northwest of Fort Myers and 52 miles southeast of Sarasota. (This story was updated with new information.) This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Florida boat rage video goes viral. Who is Brock Horner? WASHINGTON (AP) The Trump administration is planning to halt more than half a billion dollars in contracts and grants awarded to Brown University, adding to a list of Ivy League colleges that have had their federal money threatened as a result of their responses to antisemitism, a White House official said Thursday. Nearly $510 million in federal contracts and grants are on the line, said the official, who was not authorized to speak publicly about the plan and spoke on condition of anonymity. In an email Thursday to campus leaders, Brown Provost Frank Doyle said the university was aware of troubling rumors about government action on its research money. At this moment, we have no information to substantiate any of these rumors, Doyle said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brown would be the fifth Ivy League college targeted by President Donald Trumps administration, which is using federal money to enforce its agenda at colleges. Dozens of universities including every Ivy League school except Penn and Dartmouth are facing federal investigations into antisemitism following a wave of pro-Palestinian protests last year. Columbia University was the first one targeted, losing $400 million in federal money with threats to terminate more if it didnt make the campus safer for Jewish students. The school agreed to several demands from the government last month, including an overhaul of student discipline rules and a review of the schools Middle East studies department. The government later suspended about $175 million in federal funding for the University of Pennsylvania over a transgender swimmer who previously competed for the school. On Monday, a federal antisemitism task force said it was reviewing almost $9 billion in federal grants and contracts at Harvard University amid an investigation into campus antisemitism. And on Tuesday, Princeton University said the administration had halted dozens of its research grants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pressure has created a dilemma for U.S. colleges, which rely on federal research funding as a major source of revenue. Trumps administration has promised a more aggressive approach against campus antisemitism, accusing former President Joe Biden of letting schools off the hook. It has opened new investigations at colleges and detained and deported several foreign students with ties to pro-Palestinian protests. An incoming assistant professor of medicine at Brown was deported to Lebanon last month for having openly admitted to supporting a Hezbollah leader and attending his funeral, the Department of Homeland Security said. During last school year's campus protests against the Israel-Hamas war, Brown stood out for a deal it struck with student activists. In exchange for the students' dismantling an encampment, the university committed to having its governing board vote on whether to divest from companies that protesters said were facilitating Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. The Corporation of Brown rejected the divestment proposal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ AP Education Writer Collin Binkley contributed. Mumphrey reported from Phoenix. ___ The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Last year, Italy was supplied with 9.7 bcm of Azerbaijani gas, Azerbaijan's Minister of Energy, Parviz Shahbazov, said in a post on his official X page, Trend reports. "We discussed the priorities of our Gas Supply, Energy Cooperation, as well as issues related to the meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission with Vannia Gava, Deputy Minister of the Environment and Energy Security of the Italian Republic. Last year, Italy was supplied with 9.7 bcm of Azerbaijani gas," the post reads. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel WACO, Texas (FOX 44) Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest temporarily closed on Friday out of an abundance of caution for measles. Baylor Scott & White Health released a statement saying the health and safety of patients is a top priority. The Hillcrest building was temporarily closed and cleaned as part of the companys continued vigilance and prevention protocols to keep the community and its care providers safe. The company is referring people to its Health Department for questions about suspected and confirmed measles cases in the Waco area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hillcrest facility has since reopened, and appointments will be rescheduled. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. WINSTON SALEM, N.C. (WKBN) Six different types of sauces are being recalled. Read next: Ohio unveils new system for unclaimed funds According to an alert from the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), T.W. Garner Food Company is recalling some bottles of Texas Pete Habanero Buffalo Sauce because they may contain Sriracha Sauce. In addition to this, the company said that some Texas Pete Sweet CHAbanero Sauce bottles are being recalled because the bottles failed to contain the labeled ingredient aged peppers (Red Habanero Peppers, Salt, Vinegar). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FDA said the Sriracha Sauce contains sulfites that are not declared on the product label. The agency said that people who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to sulfites run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the sauces. The following affected products are listed below: PRODUCT SIZE UPC USE BY DATE/MFR CODES Texas Pete Habanero Buffalo Sauce 2 fl oz 0 75500 28125 9 BB120525 Texas Pete Habanero Buffalo Sauce 12 fl oz 0 75500 10028 4 BEST USED BY 11 07 25 Texas Pete Sweet CHAbanero Sweet Sriracha Habanero Sauce 2 fl oz 0 75500 53125 5 BB 090427M Texas Pete Sweet CHAbanero Sweet Sriracha Habanero Sauce 2 fl oz 0 75500 53125 5 BB 082627M Texas Pete Sweet CHAbanero Sweet Sriracha Habanero Sauce 20 fl oz 0 75500 00530 5 Best Used By: 08 02 27 F Texas Pete Sweet CHAbanero Sweet Sriracha Habanero Sauce 0.5 Gallon 0 75500 00536 7 BEST USED BY 07 23 27 T 088224 The issue was discovered during internal quality testing, where it was found that the bottles of Habanero Buffalo Sauce contained Sriracha Sauce. After the labels on the bottles were reviewed, it was determined that the Habanero Buffalo Sauce may contain undeclared sulfites, since the Sriracha Sauce contains sodium bisulfite as a preservative. No illnesses have been reported, according to the FDA. The bottles were distributed between February 5 and March 26 to distribution centers and retail stores located in Ohio and nine other states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Customers who have purchased any of these bottles are urged to dispose of them or return them to their place of purchase for a full refund. Anyone with questions can contact Katerine Cardoso, director of Quality Assurance, at (336) 231-6417 from Monday-Friday, from 8 a.m. 6 p.m. EST, or email at ContactUs@garnerfoods.com. Courtesy: fda.gov Courtesy: fda.gov Courtesy: fda.gov Courtesy: fda.gov Courtesy: fda.gov Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A Buffalo man pleaded guilty to manslaughter and weapon charges Friday morning after he killed a man last summer and allegedly threw weapons off the Skyway, the Erie County District Attorneys Office announced. Edward Harwell, 39, shot 21-year-old Kabah Kabah with an illegal gun multiple times on the 200 block of Bird Avenue. The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 3. Kabah was pronounced deceased at ECMC. The suspect vehicle traveled eastbound on Route 198, onto Route 33, into downtown Buffalo, and onto the Skyway. Objects that appeared to be handguns were seen being thrown from the window of the vehicle, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harwell and two passengers were taken into custody near the Fuhrmann Boulevard exit. Officials said two loaded firearms were recovered from the flight path and linked to Harwell through DNA analysis. Harwell pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter and two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He remains held without bail and faces a maximum of 25 years in prison when he is sentenced on July 2. Co-defendant Mekhi Harwell, 21, of Buffalo, is pending prosecution. He remains released on previously posted bail and is scheduled to return to court July 2. An 18-year-old man from Buffalo pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He was remanded to the Erie County Youth Services Center, as he was 17 at the time of the crime, and is expected to be sentenced July 2. Latest Local News Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Bullhead City police shot and killed a man Thursday as they were assisting Las Vegas police after a man reportedly stole a water taxi in Laughlin, according to the Bullhead City Police Department. Around 3:30 p.m., Bullhead police were called to assist LVMPD with a man who reportedly stole a water taxi on the Colorado River in Laughlin. The man ended up on the Arizona side of the river in the 1600 block of Highway 95 in Bullhead City, police said. As police responded, the man shot in the direction of police, resulting in officers returning fire and killing the man, Bullhead City police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No other injuries were reported, according to police. Bullhead City police said an outside agency will be handling the investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) It seems that every day, a new scam unfolds, leaving a whole new round of people suffering the consequences. The latest scam making its way across the nation is clone cars. It occurs when the VIN of a clean vehicle is etched into the body of a stolen vehicle with accompanying forged paperwork to be later sold to an unsuspecting victim. Sergeant Matt Armbruster, the Abilene Police Departments auto theft and property crimes sergeant, discussed the growing issue of cloned vehicles in Abilene. This is unfortunately something thats becoming more prevalent since Ive been a sergeant over this unit, and this past year, we have dealt with close to seven cloned vehicles already, Armbruster said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smugglers using cloned vehicles to elude authorities Armbruster shared that in previous years, they would only encounter one or two of these clone cars. Upon discovering that the vehicle that the victim believes to be a legitimate vehicle is, in fact, stolen, law enforcement often has no choice but to take the appropriate legal action, which usually leaves the victims out of cash and out of a car. Armbruster said its a necessary process that makes him sympathize with those who fall victim to this scam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It puts us between a rock and a hard place. We have to take that vehicle because its evidence of a crime. And unfortunately, that person doesnt have a vehicle, Armbruster explained. He went on to speak about how people will often fall into this scam over a Facebook Marketplace buy, and that scammers will target victims who may not be as aware of the paperwork process required in an auto sale. Abilene police warn of rise in cloned vehicle scams However, it seems that these scammers are getting so thorough with their process that theyre even fooling some experts. One Abilene resident, who wishes to remain unidentified, works in the automotive industry and had this experience first-hand when he bought a Camaro from a seller on Facebook Marketplace. He mentioned that he has made several vehicle purchases from both dealerships and Facebook Marketplace. He explained that he had to do some extensive research before discovering the harsh truth. He had a fake phone, a fake drivers license. The drivers license that he had, which was fake, matched the title that I was given. So it was completely top-to-bottom played out. After pulling the ECU, it generated a different VIN to a different year Camaro, which was what was the quote unquote clean VIN. After pulling that VIN, we looked a little bit further into it, and the number flagged as stolen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Armbruster mentioned that many victims of this scam are individuals whose first language is not English. Additionally, the APD reported that most of the vehicles involved in the clone car scam are GMCs. To avoid this scam, officials recommended: Compare the VIN Use a reputable source/check the sellers identity Look for tampering Look for damage that does not match the vehicles history If it sounds too good to be true, its probably a scam Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (FOX40.COM) State and local elected officials, law enforcement and community leaders came together to celebrate the first 100 days of Prop 36 and discuss their continued efforts to bring the Golden State back into a golden era with fewer crimes and better drug addiction treatment. The proposition, which was overwhelmingly approved by California voters, allows for felony charges and increased sentences for possessing certain drugs and theft under $950, if the defendant has two prior drug or theft convictions. [Its been] 100 days since the people gave us more tools to combat retail effect and 100 days to help us bring mass treatment instead of mass incarceration to those that are suffering in the throes of addiction, Sacramento District Attorney Thien Ho said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sacramento County DA said theyre prosecuting 12 people who knowingly sold fentanyl on murder charges. But their quest for better public safety is far from over. Those who spoke said several other important variables are still needed to carry out the law in the way it was intended, and they believe those missing elements can be addressed in two new pieces of legislation. One piece of legislation considering Prop 36 is in connection with the drug court-drug treatment aspect, and what it says is, look at every drug treatment court in California needs to employ best practices, California State Senator Tom Umberg (D)- Santa Ana, tells Fox40. We want to do the best and most effective job we can. The second bill would provide additional funding to sustain successful treatment programs. Without it, they said, people will continue to die. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were championing a budget request for $250 million as an investment because, in terms of long-term public safety, there is probably nothing more important, nothing more effective than drug treatment, Sen. Umberg (D)-Santa Ana, continues. Fox40 asked the Sacramento County District Attorney if he believes putting $250 million towards this effort was the best use of funds rather than using that funding to stop the ultimate issue of drugs continuing to enter our communities in the first place. We have educational programs that were getting to use on the prevention and intervention side, but we also need accountability to go after the peddlers of death, the peddlers of poison, and hold them accountable, DA Ho told Fox40. But then we need treatment to get people off the drugs and off the streets, its really a multi-front attack when it comes to public safety. No one knows this issue better than Tom Wolf, Director of West Coast Initiatives at the Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wolf was formerly homeless and in recovery from heroin and fentanyl addiction. He now supports prop 36. Its more cruel to leave someone on the street alone with their fentanyl or meth addiction than to hold them accountable and give them a pathway to turn their lives around, Wolf said. Those who spoke concluded that our elected officials owe it to all Californians to pass these next two pieces of legislation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. Libraries across California are bracing for cuts to early literacy, information access and continuing education programs after the Trump administration's latest effort to slash federal spending took aim at the nation's libraries and museums. The California State Library, which supports local libraries and maintains its own collection, said it was notified this week that a key federal grant supporting programs across the state had been terminated, losing at least $3 million in funding that had already been awarded. The grant's abrupt stop comes amid turmoil at the Institute of Museum and Library Services, an independent federal agency that provides the majority of federal support for the nation's libraries, and at least seven other agencies that were targeted in one of President Trump's recent executive orders that aimed at a further "reduction of the federal bureaucracy." Much of the staff at the library-focused agency were placed on administration leave this week after Trump called for the majority of its functions, as well as several others, to "be eliminated to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, following this latest round of federal layoffs and cuts to programs and services that millions of Californians depend on, Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta said his office filed another lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that the executive order and funding reductions exceed the president's power and violate the Administrative Procedure Act. The lawsuit, filed along with several other states' attorneys general, highlighted the cuts at the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Minority Business Development Agency and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. These agencies "have been forced to hollow out their staffs, shutter operations and end programs Congress directed them to provide," Bonta said Friday afternoon at a virtual press conference. "This is just the latest move in Trump's sweeping campaign to dismantle the federal government, leave federal workers high and dry and deny Americans services that they rely on." In a statement Thursday, the California State Library said it had yet to receive more than 20% of a $15.7-million grant awarded under the Library Services and Technology Act for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The funds had been distributed to support a wide range of programs across California's libraries, including story times for low-income families, summer reading initiatives, workforce-readiness skills for at-risk youth and opportunities to earn online high school diplomas. Read more: California officials detail Trump funding freeze 'chaos,' warn another could cripple state Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are deeply disappointed by this ill-informed decision, which immediately affects critical programs supported by these funds, Rebecca Wendt, the California deputy state librarian, said in a statement. The California State Library remains committed to serving all of the people of California and will explore alternative means to ensure continued access to essential library services. The American Library Assn. called the staff reductions and cuts at the Institute for Museum and Library Services "extremely shortsighted and perilous for the millions of Americans who rely on our public, school, academic, and special libraries." "Library funding draws less than 0.003% of the annual federal budget yet has enormous impact in communities nationwide," the association said in a statement. "From technology classes for jobseekers to services for people with disabilities, from library delivery for older Americans to summer reading programs for families, IMLS funding makes a real, concrete difference in the lives of Americans every day." It wasn't immediately clear how the lost funds might affect specific library programs in Los Angeles County, but Skye Patrick, the county librarian, said it will likely limit future programming if the federal grant program remains inactive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We recently submitted applications for grants to support teen, sustainability, and music programs, Patrick said in a statement. The loss of this funding opportunity could affect our ability to bring these enriching programs to the community. We remain hopeful that future support for [Library Services and Technology Act] grants will allow libraries to continue fostering education, creativity, and belonging for all. A request for comment from the IMLS was not immediately answered. 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. LA FARGE, Wis. (WFRV) A California man has been identified as the alleged source of a threatening phone call made to a Wisconsin-based non-profit, and possible charges are under review. Authorities say 23-year-old Gabriel Anthony Autio Ramirez of Santa Cruz, California, made a threatening call to leadership at OrganicEye, a La Farge area watchdog organization focused on oversight in the organic farming industry. Boat capsizes on Wisconsin River, search for two missing boaters continues Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the call in February 2024, the Vernon County Sheriffs Office had also received reports of threatening emails sent to the group in late 2023. Working alongside OrganicEyes technical staff, investigators obtained and executed search warrants on two service providers. The information led detectives to Ramirez, who is employed by CCOF, the nations largest USDA-accredited organic certifier. The threats reportedly began shortly after OrganicEye filed a formal complaint against CCOF, alleging federal law violations related to conflicts of interest. CCOF has cooperated with the investigation and is not believed to be involved beyond Ramirez. Brown County Tavern League significantly expands SafeRide program for 2025 NFL Draft Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case has been referred to the Vernon County District Attorneys Office. Ramirez has not been charged, but he could face felony charges for threats to injure and a misdemeanor for unlawful use of a telephone. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Vernon County Sheriffs Office at (608) 637-2123. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Romania encourages Azerbaijans state oil company (SOCAR) to expand presence in its market, Romanian Minister of Energy Sebastian-Ioan Burduja told Trend on the sidelines of the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku. SOCAR is very active on the local market and we welcome that. We encourage them to expand their presence in Romania, underpinned on this excellent collaboration we have, he said. Further, talking about the Black Sea Cable project, which envisages green energy supplies from Azerbaijan to Europe, the minister noted that it is a very ambitious project. It will be the longest underwater cable in the world. We're nearing the stage of finalizing the feasibility study, and then we have to secure the financing. We hope for EU grants to cover a lot of it, and then get it done. That will help us both be more energy secure, have cheaper energy, and also clean energy. So, it's really a win-win situation, Sebastian-Ioan Burduja added. California Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to shield his state from retaliatory tariffs. Many countries are considering what to do in response to President Donald Trump's "Liberation Day." Newsom's actions reignite the long-running feud between the nation's most populous state and Trump. California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday said he will seek to talk to world leaders about why they should exempt his state from retaliatory actions to President Donald Trump's latest round of tariffs. "TO OUR TRADING PARTNERS AROUND THE GLOBE California is here and ready to talk," Newsom wrote on X. "We will not sit idly by during Trump's tariff war." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a video accompanying his message, Newsom said, "Donald Trump's tariffs do not represent all Americans." "Today, I have directed my administration to look a new opportunities to expand trade and to remind our trading partners around the global that California remains a stable partner," Newsom said. Trump roiled markets on Wednesday when he announced sweeping "reciprocal tariffs" for a long list of nations, including the European Union, South Korea, Japan, and India. China was hit particularly hard because Trump's latest round of tariffs was combined with existing ones, bringing the total on Chinese goods to 54%. Stocks continued to crater on Friday, with the Dow down roughly 4% as of the afternoon. It's California v. Trump, again Newsom's comments reignite the long-running feud between the nation's most populous state and Trump. The White House wasted little time firing back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Gavin Newsom should focus on out-of-control homelessness, crime, regulations, and unaffordability in California instead of trying his hand at international dealmaking," White House spokesperson Kush Desai said in a statement. A potential 2028 challenger, Newsom is also coming close to, if not outright crossing, the legal line between federal and state power. Trump's first administration sued California after then-Gov. Jerry Brown brokered a climate change agreement with the Canadian province of Quebec after Trump announced his intention to pull the US out of the Paris Climate Accord. California won at the lower-court level, but the dispute was never fully resolved when President Joe Biden's Justice Department dropped the case in April 2021. Newsom is on dicey legal grounds Presidents have sweeping tariff powers, but the actual line between what states can do with foreign countries is a little hazy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Constitution requires states to obtain congressional approval "to enter into any Agreement or Compact" with a foreign country. Yet, many states have ignored that for decades, and lawmakers haven't seemed to mind. As Curtis A. Bradley, a law professor at the University of Chicago, wrote in 2023, the federal government has sometimes encouraged states to strike their deals. "In practice, U.S. states almost never seek congressional approval for their agreements with foreign governments, and the number of unapproved agreements has been growing substantially in recent years," Bradley wrote. Many states send trade delegations overseas. In the past, some have also sought to restrict business with specific countries, most notably during the anti-Apartheid movement against South Africa in the 1980s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2000, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that Massachusetts could not on its own prohibit its government agencies from conducting business with Burma since Congress had already passed sanctions on Myanmar. Congress has the ultimate power to check Trump's tariffs, but Republicans have proved reluctant to do so. On Wednesday, the Senate voted to block Trump's tariffs on Canada, though that bill is not expected to pass the Republican-controlled House. Read the original article on Business Insider Gov. Spencer Cox speaks to reporters during the last night of the legislative session at the Utah State Capitol, Friday, March 7, 2025. (Photo by Alex Goodlett for Utah News Dispatch) In the last five years, lawmakers have passed on average 40 bills during each 45-day legislative session that either create new criminal offenses or increase the penalty for existing crimes. Its part of a trend that Utah Gov. Spencer Cox calls unsustainable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year was no different, with lawmakers introducing 77, and passing 43, bills to either add, enhance or expand criminal penalties. There were just eight bills, six successful, that sought to narrow, reduce or repeal. Now, Utah has dozens of new laws and increased penalties in state code. Its now a class B misdemeanor for a public employee to use public money for union activity; trafficking large quantities of fentanyl is now a standalone first-degree felony; obstructing traffic while failing to comply with law enforcement is now a class B misdemeanor. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Thats just a taste of the 43 bills that passed this session. A full list of these new bills is available here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while all 43 were signed by Cox, the governor said the volume of changes to the states criminal code gives him pause. Im concerned about the strain this rapid growth in new offenses places on our incarceration resources. Ive heard from many stakeholders including law enforcement leaders that the sheer volume of recent changes has become difficult to manage, the governor said in his end-of-session letter to lawmakers. There is also a valid question as to whether these enhancements, absent an overarching strategy, will actually achieve the public safety goals theyre intended to address. To that end, Cox signed an executive order last week creating a new task force aimed at reviewing the states criminal justice policy. Announced late on Thursday night, the task force will be charged with evaluating how current criminal justice laws and policies are serving the state and developing a comprehensive framework will improve criminal justice efforts in our state, according to the executive order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The task force will consist of the following department heads, or someone they designate to serve in their place: The Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice The Utah Department of Public Safety The Utah Department of Corrections The Governors Office of Planning and Budget The chair of the Board of Pardons and Parole Any other state agency deemed necessary to accomplish the Task Forces responsibilities A member of the Utah House of Representatives and Senate will also be appointed to the task force. The task force will create a framework for the governor and lawmakers on the Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Interim Committee to review by October, which per Coxs executive order, will consider 10 things: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Public safety Deterrence Proportionality (meaning punishments should fit the crime) Judicial discretion and consistency Rehabilitation and treatment Recidivism Costs and resources Jail and prison capacity Victim needs Research and data Then, Utahs state agencies will use that framework to complete a report, which will be submitted to the committee, on how best to approach criminal justice policy in the state. Coxs task force builds on a bill sponsored by Rep. Ryan Wilcox, R-Ogden, that requires state agencies to review criminal offenses that pertain to the department, then make recommendations to the legislature on what could be repealed or redefined. The bill, HB353, is one of the few pieces of legislation passed this year that actually repeals certain criminal offenses, some of which havent been charged in over a decade, Wilcox said during the session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also moves a number of misdemeanor crimes to an infraction, the lowest criminal penalty in state code. Cox said he likes the bill. But it will be one of a handful this year that he allows to go into law without his signature, not because I dont like the bill, but because I think we can do even more, he said. A one-way ratchet During the session, Wilcox told lawmakers during a committee meeting hes hyper aware of that one-way ratchet when it comes to criminal justice policy meaning, each year lawmakers pass far more bills that create or increase criminal penalties than bills that repeal or reduce. So why does it matter? Whats wrong with holding criminals accountable? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For people like Steve Burton, a defense attorney and director of the Utah Defense Attorney Association, it can sometimes strip the nuance from criminal justice policy. Thats the case particularly for bills that impose mandatory minimum sentences. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US They treat a lot of people the same, Burton said, while costing taxpayers thousands of dollars more each year to incarcerate someone, regardless of how the states criminal justice policies might evolve. And generally speaking, a tough-on-crime approach is just an ineffective way to approach criminal justice, he said. For instance, making a misdemeanor crime a felony means the convicted will have a much harder time finding a job and having steady employment is one of the main factors in reducing recidivism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plus, keeping people incarcerated longer often increases their social ties with other criminals, another factor that increases recidivism. And, if the convicted person is a parent, that means theyll be spending less time with their kids statistically, that heightens the risk that their children will engage in criminal behavior. When we think that were being tough on crime, were actually often increasing the risk of that person reoffending and creating more victims, said Burton. Plus, harsher sentences can give prosecutors more power in what is supposed to be a balanced system. A harsher penalty means the person charged is more likely to plead guilty to minimize time spent in prison. It depends on the source, but typically just 2% to 5% of cases actually go to trial, with most cases either resulting in a guilty plea or a case being dismissed. With the vast majority of cases being resolved through plea bargain, that means that the decision-making power is in the prosecutors hands as to what the ultimate penalty should be. And the more that you increase penalties, the more you incentivize defendants to not take their case to trial, said Burton. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE CALUMET CITY, Ill. (WGN) A south suburban deputy fire chief died earlier this week due to an illness, according to a press release from Calumet City Mayor Thaddeus Jones. Calumet City Deputy Fire Chief Pete Bendinelli died at his Dyer, Indiana home Monday surrounded by family after battling an illness over the past year. Deputy Chief Bendinelli was the crown jewel of our Fire Department. He was considered a best-in-class executive firefighter who enjoyed tremendous success throughout his tenure with the Calumet City Fire Department, Jones said. He had a keen sense of every fire protocol and regulation and shared his expertise with scores of young firefighters throughout southern Cook County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bendinelli began his fire service career with Burnham Fire Department before joining the Midlothian Fire Department in 1997. In October 1998, he found his home with the Calumet City Fire Department, where Jones said he dedicated himself to serving the community with courage and compassion. Bendinelli earned his masters degree and his Chief Fire Officer (CFO) certification from Indiana University Northwest. Jones said his biggest accomplishment in the fire service was receiving the prestigious Executive Fire Officer (EFO) certification from the National Fire Academy in 2023. Calumet Citys mayor also pointed out Bendinelli was recognized as one of only two legacies in the program, an honor he shared with his good friend and fellow graduate Matthew Berk. Calumet City Fire Chief Glenn Bachert said he often relied upon Bendinelli to take the lead in handling city-wide emergencies. Such was the case with recent flooding challenges of 2023 when the deputy chief led rescue efforts and received regional accolades for how well he performed his duties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have been extremely fortunate to have Pete Bendinelli as my Deputy Chief. Much of the success, advancement and enhanced upward mobility of our department is because of the compassion, focus, and dedication that Pete Bendinelli displayed on a daily basis, Bachert said. His footprint within our ranks will always be treasured and never forgotten. I will miss him not only as my Deputy Chief, but more importantly as my friend. Mayor Jones concluded the press release with On behalf of the entire city of Calumet City, we collectively send our heartfelt thoughts, prayers, and condolences to the entire Bendinelli family. We absolutely loved and admired Deputy Chief Bendinelli, but God loved him so much more. Bendinelli is survived by his wife of 25 years, Lisa Bendinelli and his two daughters, Mariana and Mia Bendinelli. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Visitation will take place at Faith Church, 100 W. 81st Avenue, Dyer, Indiana, on Friday, April 4, from 2-8 p.m. Funeral Services will take place Saturday, April 5, at 10 a.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Calvary Panama City will host their annual Color 5K Run in Downtown Panama City on April 19. The run will begin at 8:00 a.m. All of the proceeds will go to the Panama City Rescue Mission to support the community. There will also be a kids egg stroll after. To sign up, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. Canadas Foreign Minister Melanie Joly has stated that Russias effective refusal to uphold the ceasefire arrangements must have consequences, and a deadline should be set for the Kremlins final decision on whether or not to participate in the agreement. Source: Melanie Joly before the start of day two of the NATO foreign ministers meeting in Brussels on 4 April, as reported by a European Pravda correspondent Details: The Canadian foreign minister stressed that Russias de facto refusal to agree to a ceasefire must lead to practical consequences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "Russia needs to come back with a clear position. And we believe that its important to have a delai [deadline] on the reaction of Russia towards the ceasefire proposal. So, we think that if ultimately they do not agree to that ceasefire, there should be consequences." Details: When asked whether the current US administration shares the view of Europe and Canada that Russia poses a direct threat, Joly said it was important for everyone to agree that Russia is indeed a threat: "If not, I dont know why we should always increase and increase more and more defence spending?" Joly also supported the idea of setting a specific deadline for Russia to make its decision regarding participation in the ceasefire agreement. "Absolutely, thats my point," she stressed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As reported by European Pravda, on 4 April French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, speaking alongside his UK counterpart David Lammy at NATO Headquarters, stated that the member states of the coalition of the willing supporting Ukraine expect a clear answer from Russia on whether it will comply with the ceasefire agreement. Background: Earlier, NATO representatives assessed the balance of power on the battlefield and whether Russia has any chance of a breakthrough. NATO has also said that Russia is stockpiling missiles for a new strike on Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Kremlins envoy in the US has baselessly accused Ukraine of violating the ceasefire. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! (WKBN) Vivek Ramaswamy, who hopes to be Ohios next governor, stopped by WKBN Thursday afternoon to speak with First News before attending an event in Canfield. Ramaswamy, the Republican candidate for governor, laid out three issues he wants to deal with. One of his three priorities is repopulating Ohio stopping young people from moving away and he has a way to get them to stay. Where are those people going? Theyre going to Texas, theyre going to Florida, theyre going to Tennessee. What do those states have in common? Theyre zero-income tax states. I will make Ohio a zero-income-tax state so you will be able to keep what you earn, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says if we can retain people, Ohioans should be able to generate enough sales tax to support state government. Another of Ramaswamys issues is education. He wants kids in Ohio to get a world-class education by creating a merit-based pay system for teachers and making public schools competitive with private schools. I believe our best public school teachers deserve to be paid a lot more actually than they are right now. But theres no meritocracy in the compensation system, theres no assessments of performance and that means were not attracting the very best anymore to public education, he said. Ramaswamys third issue is Ohios power grid. He wants to use coal and natural gas to generate electricity, but he wants Ohio to lead the nation in the use of small, modular nuclear reactors. He understands that it will take some regulatory reform but thats what he hopes to be a governor with vision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im in favor of bringing back the utilization of coal and natural gas I want Ohio to be the state that leads the country in the use of small, modular nuclear reactors, Ramaswamy said. Later Thursday night, Ramaswamy shook hands and posed for pictures for some of the 740 people at a Mahoning County Republican Party fundraiser in Canfield. So as governor, Im not focused on the traditional political Republican right versus left issues necessarily, Ramaswamy said. Ramaswamy said he also wants to be Ohios marketing director. My job as a governor is to tell the rest of the country how great our state really is. Are we marketing the state as effectively as we can to the rest of the country? Probably not and I see room for improvement there, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See the full interview with Ramaswamy below: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. MAHONING, CO., Ohio (WKBN) A woman from Canfield has announced she wants to be the next Mahoning County Commissioner. Christine Oliver, who currently serves as Canfield City Council President, is running as a Republican in 2026 for the seat currently held by Carol Righetti. Oliver said some of the same people have been county commissioners for years and its time for a change. I want to see more development in the whole entire county and safety, and Im a big proponent of law enforcement. As you know, with our Back the Blue Ohio nonprofit, we raise money for children of fallen officers. So I want to bring safety, services, more jobs and economic development to the county and Im going to work really hard to help do that, Oliver said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Righetti said she has not yet decided if she will run for reelection. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Moldova is looking to enhance the cooperation with Azerbaijan on energy security, the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Moldova, Dorin Junghietu told Trend on the sidelines of the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku. First of all, I would like to express our gratitude from Moldova for inviting us to this important event. I am here representing the Government of Moldova, the Ministry of Energy, and we are looking to enhance our cooperation with Azerbaijan, especially on the energy security, on gas supplies. We are pretty much looking for an extended cooperation between the two countries, he said. Junghietu also recalled Moldovas participation at COP29 held in Baku last year. It was an important event, and we are very thankful to you for inviting us, he added. Apr. 3WASHINGTON As markets around the world reeled in response to sweeping tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, Sen. Maria Cantwell of Washington state led a bipartisan effort on Thursday to give Congress more control over U.S. trade policy. Cantwell, the top Democrat on the Senate Commerce Committee, introduced legislation with Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, that would require the president to notify Congress before enacting tariffs, which would expire within 60 days without congressional approval. The Trade Review Act also would let lawmakers end tariffs at any time and require an administration to provide both a rationale for imposing new taxes on imports and an analysis of their impact on American businesses and consumers. "This bill reasserts Congress's role over trade policy to ensure rules-based trade policies are transparent, consistent, and benefit the American public," Cantwell said in a statement. "Arbitrary tariffs, particularly on our allies, damage U.S. export opportunities and raise prices for American consumers and businesses." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grassley chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee, and both he and Cantwell are senior members of the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over tariffs and foreign trade. The senators modeled their bill after the War Powers Resolution, a 1973 law enacted in response to then-President Richard Nixon bombing Cambodia during the Vietnam War without notifying Congress. Coincidentally, Cambodia faces the highest tariff of any country, 49%, under Trump's new policies. Republicans have largely avoided criticizing President Donald Trump's policies, but four GOP senators joined Democrats on Wednesday to pass a resolution that would effectively end a previous set of tariffs he imposed on Canada. Grassley was not among the Republicans who backed the measure. They included Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska two moderates whose states depend heavily on trade with Canada and Sens. Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul, both of Kentucky. Like that resolution, Cantwell and Grassley's bill appears unlikely to pass the Republican-majority House and would need the support of two-thirds of both chambers to overcome a presidential veto. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grassley, first elected to represent his heavily agricultural state in 1980, is the Senate's longest-serving member and president pro tempore, a title he took over from Sen. Patty Murray of Washington when Republicans retook the Senate majority in January. That makes the 91-year-old Iowan third in line for the presidency, behind the vice president and speaker of the House. "For too long, Congress has delegated its clear authority to regulate interstate and foreign commerce to the executive branch," Grassley said in a statement, adding that the Trade Review Act is intended "to reassert Congress' constitutional role and ensure Congress has a voice in trade policy." The senators introduced their bill a day after Trump announced sweeping tariffs of at least 10% on the entire world, including uninhabited islands, prompting incredulous reactions from around the world and jokes about tariffs imposed on penguins. Goods imported from the European Union will see an additional 20% tax, and the rate will be even higher for imports from long-time U.S. allies like Japan and South Korea. Orion Donovan Smith's work is funded in part by members of the Spokane community via the Community Journalism and Civic Engagement Fund. This story can be republished by other organizations for free under a Creative Commons license. For more information on this, please contact our newspaper's managing editor. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) Three students in the Canutillo Independent School District have been accepted to Ivy League schools and two others have been accepted to other prestigious East Coast schools, the district said. The students are attending Northwest Early College High School and will graduate this spring as part of Class of 2025. Canutillo ISD celebrates students going to prestigious East Coast universities. Photo courtesy of CISD Northwest Early College, a U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon campus, had a ceremony and celebrated the three students on Friday, April 4. The school honored the following students for their admission to Ivy League schools: Yamilette Contreras, admitted to Yale University Fatima Garcia Meraz, admitted to Princeton University Sebastian Esparza, admitted to the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). Additionally, Northwest Early celebrated seniors Brandon Enciso for being admitted to Northeastern University in Boston and Aladeotan Falola for being admitted with a full-ride scholarship to Washington and Lee University in Virginia as part of the QuestBridge Program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. A 49-year-old Cape Cod man is facing manslaughter and motor vehicle homicide charges in connection with a fatal crash in Harwich that killed a Hyannis man on Thursday night, the district attorney said Friday. Zachary Fena of Centerville is charged with manslaughter while operating under the influence; motor vehicle homicide while operating under the influence of liquor or .08% negligent, operating under the influence, negligent operation of motor vehicle, and marked lanes violation, Cape & Islands District Attorney Robert Galibois said in a statement. Fena was arraigned out of the Orleans District Court. The court ordered $5,000 bail with conditions of release. Prosecutors had requested $10,000 bail. Fena is due back in court on May 5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mario Da Paixao Andrade, 48, of Hyannis, died following the crash late Thursday afternoon, Galibois said. Galiboiss thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the individual involved during this very sad time, the district attorney said in his statement. On Thursday, at approximately 5:26 p.m., the Massachusetts State Police Yarmouth barracks received multiple calls regarding a two-car crash on Route 6, at mile marker 84.2, in Harwich. Troopers arriving on scene saw two vehicles with debris scattered across both the eastbound and westbound lanes, Galibois said. Fenas vehicle, with heavy front-end damage, was in the median, separating the eastbound and westbound lanes, facing west. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrades vehicle, also with heavy front-end damage, was in the eastbound breakdown lane, facing west, up against the guardrail, Galibois said. Witnesses interviewed on scene told investigators they saw Fenas vehicle swerve multiple times, with rapid vehicle speed changes, prior to crossing the median, from the eastbound lane into the westbound lane, Galibois said. Fena then allegedly struck Andrades vehicle head on. Andrade was determined to be no longer viable for resuscitation on scene, Galibois said. Fena was taken by ambulance to Cape Cod Hospital for further evaluation. Investigators found probable cause that Fena had been driving under the influence of alcohol before the crash. He was arrested at Cape Cod Hospital, Galibois said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash remains under investigation by State Police detectives assigned to Galibois office, the Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis Reconstruction Section, the Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Section, and Harwich Police. 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 PIERRE, S.D. (KELO) The jury needed just 62 minutes on Thursday afternoon to find Lonna Carroll guilty. But the quick verdict from the seven men and five women on the panel doesnt mean the case is over. Her court-appointed defense attorney, Tim Whalen, said it is likely he will appeal their decision to the South Dakota Supreme Court. Carroll, a former employee at the South Dakota Department of Social Services in Pierre, was found guilty of one count of aggravated grand theft and one count of grand theft for allegedly stealing more than $1.7 million from state Division of Child Protection Services from 2010 until her retirement in March 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whalen raised issues in his closing argument as he asked jurors to find Carroll not-guilty. His claims were sandwiched between those made by Nolan Welker, an assistant attorney general, and state Attorney General Marty Jackley as they asked the jury to find Carroll guilty. Welker began the prosecutions closing argument. His first words were how much was stolen: One million Seven hundred seventy seven thousand Six hundred sixty five dollars And seventy three cents. He told the jury, You have the records. You have the testimony. You have the defendants own words. That was a reference to a recording from last July, when two state investigators arrived unannounced and met with Carroll at her house in Algona, Iowa, where she had moved after her retirement in March 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the time the visit finished, Carroll was in tears. She had signed a detailed document showing how much investigators determined she had taken over the course of 13 years from the state Division of Child Protection Services. Local police took her away to jail. She has been behind bars since. Carroll, a program assistant at the child-protection division, had authority to make requests for payments into childrens accounts. She also had authority to approve the requests and authorize the payments. Two hundred and fourteen times, according to prosecutors, she had taken a state government check, issued at her request and approved by her, to American Bank & Trust in Pierre, deposited the money into one or two of the childrens accounts, and then immediately withdrew from those accounts the same amount in cash, which she then spent on a variety of clothing, costume jewelry and other things. To hide what she was doing, Carroll made internal transfers using other funds that the department received, according to prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We know the process she used, Welker told jurors. We know she stole the money. We know each time how she covered her tracks. Carrolls attorney in turn referred to the mountain of information that prosecutors had presented to the jury. I guess all I can say is wow, Whalen told the jury. It looks insurmountable. He gestured to where his client was sitting. Lonna Carroll has got to deal with it. Whalen argued there were problems with the timing of the charges, claiming that the statute of limitations had run out, especially for those transactions that occurred before 2016. They (the state) dont get to have their cake and eat it, too, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People at the department have egg on their face, Whalen said, because Carroll had been authorized by someone none of the states witnesses could say for sure who to make those requests, and to approve them, and to approve payments, even though she wasnt supposed to have more than one of those powers. The child-protection division uses whats known as the Family and Child Information System FACIS to keep track of children who are in its care. For thirteen years, alls you had to do was look, Whalen argued. Right or wrong, the takings were authorized. As to concealment, Whalen pointed out that Carroll kept receipts showing hundreds of dollars spent at a time, and put stolen money into her personal bank account, and wore new clothes day after day to the office. Who leaves a trail like that? he asked. Whalen claimed that Carroll should have been charged with embezzlement. Grand theft involved taking something without permission. When the taking occurs, and she was authorized, its not theft, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The child-protection division lacked financial-control policies and procedures, based on testimony from a variety of the prosecutions witnesses, as well as the testimony of the only defense witness, Logan Aukes, an accounting expert, according to Whalen. He noted that the prosecution didnt call any witness who was currently Carrolls direct supervisor or any who had been in the past. They all scatter like rats. As soon as theyre called in to testify, they scatter, Whalen said. He added, The state needs to be examined hard. Jackley delivered the prosecutions final blows. He reminded the jury that closing arguments arent evidence and said Whalen was playing the blame game. Regarding the seven-year statute of limitations in theft cases that starts on the date of discovery, Jackley said none of the witnesses including the defenses expert produced any evidence that the discovery didnt occur in February 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As to Carrolls authorizations, Jackley said, she wasnt authorized to steal. He reminded jurors of the photographs of the boxes of receipts and tubs of clothes that investigators found in a Pierre storage unit that she rented. He agreed that the department had left the door unlocked but said that didnt give Carroll the right to steal the money. He said there was plenty of evidence of concealment, such as Carrolls changing the funding sources to make the withdrawals more difficult to uncover, her refusal to train a successor, and her often taking cash just under the $10,000 threshold for when banks in most cases are required to report to federal authorities. She didnt want the reporting to happen, Jackley said. And, he pointed out, Carroll had already admitted to the thefts, back on July 17, 2024, when she signed the document that investigators brought to her front door. Jackley concluded by showing jurors how they should fill out the verdict forms. He said they shouldnt consider any lesser possible charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Circuit Judge Christina Klinger then told two of the 14 jurors that they were excused because they were alternates. The remaining 12 filed out of the courtroom at 3:10. They had been in the jury room less than an hour when word spread that they had reached verdicts. Carroll returned to the courtroom at 4:10 p.m., accompanied by two deputies in bulletproof vests and full law-enforcement gear. Judge Klinger returned next. Then the jury came back in. The clock on the back wall showed the time was 4:12 p.m. The judge silently read the verdicts. Next, she had the bailiff read the verdicts aloud for the attorneys, the people in the audience, and for Carroll to hear. Then the judge polled the jury, name by name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each one replied the same. Guilty. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. For four years, Hope Florida, the passion project of First Lady Casey DeSantis, has boasted of saving millions of taxpayer dollars by weaning thousands of people off welfare and hooking them up with community organizations and religious nonprofits that can better serve their long term needs. But the loosely-structured state program, seen as a springboard for the First Ladys potential entry into politics, has failed to back up those claims of success or provide a full accounting of its finances despite repeated requests from the Orlando Sentinel and other news organizations. Even legislative staffers have been unable to get answers about how many state workers and tax dollars have been diverted to Hope Florida from the states other programs to help residents in need of food, shelter, healthcare and work. That has irked House speaker Daniel Perez, who said at a meeting with reporters Friday he wouldnt rule out using his subpoena powers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, with legislation filed to shift Hope Florida from the oversight of the states Department of Children and Families to the Governors Office, the issue may be coming to a head. A recent report from House legislative analysts who work under the direction of Republican leadership raises sharp questions about Hope Floridas murky structure and rips into its nonprofit, charitable arm for failing to file federal tax returns, conduct an audit of its finances, or provide an ethics statement all required by law. I want to make sure this organization is done the right way and totally above board before we codify this going forward, Sen. Tina Polsky, D-Boca Raton, said during the bills first Senate committee hearing on Tuesday. But Sen. Danny Burgess, a Zephyrhills Republican and close DeSantis ally, dismissed the concerns raised in the House analysis, saying they are not the subject of the bill before us in the hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Ron DeSantis bristled at the suggestion of any wrongdoing. During a press conference Tuesday touting a new partnership between Hope Florida and county sheriffs, he blasted a reporter who asked why Hope Floridas nonprofit arm, created to raise private donations to further its ostensible goals, was delinquent on its tax return. First of all, were not going to let you try to smear a good program with this stuff on these things, DeSantis said, his wife at his side. Since the First Lady launched this . there have been 30,000 Floridians who have gotten off welfare programs and have saved the state about $100 million and so its good for taxpayers. DeSantis suggested the reporters questions originated with House leadership. I know the House is feeding you guys stuff. We werent born yesterday. We understand what theyre trying to do. He added that the nonprofit would take care of the paperwork. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview Thursday, Perez said those accusations were without merit, and that he wasnt here to curtail the future of Hope Florida. I just want to make sure members have all the information at their disposal to make the right decision whether they want to vote up or down on a bill and we dont have that from Hope Florida, Perez said. Grassroots effort depends on state resources The DeSantises pitch Hope Florida as a grassroots antidote to bureaucratic bloat and an alternative to the cycle of dependency on government assistance. When somebody is in need of help do you get a government check and thats where the story ends? Casey DeSantis asked at the Tuesday press conference. Or can we help you on the pathway to economic self sufficiency? Can we provide a lifeline of hope the solution is not the government? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it has absorbed staff and resources from nearly a dozen state agencies, primarily DCF, in pursuit of its mission. Hope Florida has its roots in a pilot project launched by DCF in 2020 to use what it called care navigators to connect people receiving food stamps and welfare with community organizations able to help them. It started off with 30 full-time care navigators, or counselors, in northwest and central Florida and has since grown to include 125 staffers, renamed Hope Navigators, across 11 state agencies, including Juvenile Justice, the Agency for Health Care Administration, CareerSource, Education, Veterans Affairs, Elderly Affairs and the Guardian Ad Litem program, which represents children in domestic violence situations. These navigators link impoverished Floridians with the network of religious and community organizations that support them and teach them how to take of themselves, according to Hope Floridas supporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Casey DeSantis has no formal role with Hope Florida, although she has regularly been its public champion. Instead it is overseen by a $108,000-a-year DCF supervisor, Dawn Murray, but a fuller picture of its finances is nowhere to be found in the state budget. Only pieces of its spending have previously come to light. In 2023, the Legislature authorized $1.25 million for 14 Hope Florida positions including $324,370 for five positions in Elder Affairs; $431,351 for four positions in Veterans Affairs; and $496,966 for five additional positions elsewhere. Beyond that, House analysts said some number of Hope Florida jobs came by reassigning staffers or vacancies from other agencies, mainly DCF, but it could not determine how many positions were repurposed for Hope Florida functions nor how many state employees are actually working for Hope Florida. Similarly, the extent to which participating state agencies have entered into contracts for goods or services to further the Hope Florida mission is also unknown, the House analysis said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. DeSantis is now asking the Legislature for $536,792 to create four new positions and move Hope Florida under his own executive offices. The House has no funding for those positions in its proposed 2025-26 state budget, but the Senate does, as well as $2 million to fund a Hope hotline at DCF that directs applicants to services. In the Senate hearing, Burgess repeated the administrations claims of Hope Floridas success. We saved $108 million by supporting people with opportunities that are truly changing their lives without a temporary bridge, Burgess said. Theyre a force multiplier. The House staff analysis said DCF has provided no documentation to back up those numbers, despite repeated requests. A DCF analysis of the bill said the savings were estimated by calculating the monthly benefits that had been received by 30,000 people it cut from the food stamps and welfare programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But those programs are funded from federal tax dollars, not state, leaving unclear where the state savings come in. Questions about donations Questions are also being raised about the private donations Hope Florida has collected through its nonprofit arm, which furnishes the money behind the over-sized checks Casey DeSantis has handed out to religious groups that worked with Hope Florida over the last few years. DCF has not provided records of private donations, how that money was being distributed, or what criteria was being used to decide who gets that funding. House analysts also were stonewalled. Department of Education records, however, show that it has funneled nearly $1.3 million from its own nonprofit arm, the Florida Education Foundation, to something it calls the Hope Florida Fund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Florida Education Foundation is authorized to award expedited grants to support education related initiatives and has accepted donations with donor intent to go towards the Hope Florida Fund and support education initiatives, DOE spokesperson Sydney Booker said in a December email to the Sentinel. DCF currently has the legal responsibility for managing Hope Floridas charitable arm. The Legislature created the nonprofit Hope Florida Foundation in 2023 for the sole purpose of carrying out the agencys mission to help children. That includes addressing gaps in services for the children and adults served by the department, developing prevention efforts and providing other services and activities, the statute says. A key reason the Foundations revenues since then are unknown is that it apparently has not filed its tax returns. A search on the IRS website came up empty, nor could tax returns be found on GuideStar, an online clearinghouse of nonprofit organizations, or on ProPublicas nonprofit explorer. The Foundation also hasnt submitted an annual audit that was due March 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Polsky said she is struggling to understand what distinct role Hope Florida is serving amid multiple other state agencies tasked with helping needy Floridians. We talk about government efficiency, but it doesnt make sense to have agencies working at cross purposes without falling all over each other, Polsky said. We should DOGE it up and have one organization overseeing this and not have multiple groups going at it from different directions. Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando, said she appreciated the efforts of Hope Floridas supporters to bolster its operations through legislation, but still had concerns about diverting resources from state services already struggling to serve the needs of the growing number of residents in crisis. A lot of our offices every day get calls from constituents navigating the broken safety net with its unemployment, food stamps, (welfare), rental assistance that is not to be found in this state, Eskamani said. We want to help families be economically self-sustaining but there are so many gaps in that system. We are all trying to help families. ------------- CBS News has struck a deal to give hundreds of employees new protections against artificial intelligence taking their jobs, the Writers Guild of America East and Writers Guild of America West jointly announced on Friday. AI and its role in the newsroom had been a key sticking point in the WGAs negotiations with CBS on a new collective bargaining agreement. Fridays deal features several AI safeguards, including: Staffers who lose their jobs as a result of AI will receive a 50% increase on their severance package, relative to what it would have been if they lost their job for another reason. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CBS News will meet with the Guild semi-annually to discuss generative AI and how it is being used to create content. The company will indemnify Guild members who are assigned to use GAI in accordance with company policies. CBS News committed to providing advance notice to the Guild before it implements new AI features. The new three-year deal was overwhelmingly ratified by more than 270 CBS News staffers who are part of the bargaining unit; that includes writers, producers, editors and graphic artists who work in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago and Washington, D.C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other aspects of the new deal include a 3% annual raise for staffers and more vacation time for first-year employees; new employees will now get two weeks of vacation rather than just one week. Were so proud to have fought for a strong contract that provides critical job protections to our members, WGAE VP Beth Godvik said in a statement. Our members work around the clock to bring viewers across the globe the news and were encouraged to have a contract that reflects our value. The post CBS News to Give Employees Larger Severance if Theyre Replaced by AI in New WGA Deal appeared first on TheWrap. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The Trump administration is threatening to withhold federal funds from the Clark County School District if it doesnt toss its diversity and equity policies. This is in response to an executive order and deadline President Donald Trump issued in February. CCSD and other public schools could risk losing Title 1 funding due to their diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, according to a memo the U.S. Department Education sent on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 70% of CCSD schools are Title 1. Those are schools that receive funding because they have low-income students, but those funds are in jeopardy due to the districts diversity and equity department. According to records 8 News Now obtained, the districts budget for equity and diversity was $2 million in 2022; $1.92 million in 2023; $1.96 million in 2024; and $2.2 million in 2025. Nine employees work in the districts equity and diversity department. Another 14 employees are classified as working in equity and/or diversity, according to records. Five employees make six figures and a few have seen pay raises of almost $20,000 over the years. For instance, Andrew OReilly, coordinator of Equity & Diversity Education, started making $99,000 a year in 2022 and his salary is currently $122,168, according to records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assistant Superintendent Samuel Scavella in 2022 made $132,552 and is currently making $150,812, according to records. President Trump issued an executive order in February calling for the elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in public schools. CCSD Board of Trustees member Lorena Biassotti supports Trumps agenda. Biassotti told 8 News Now in a statement: I personally oppose taking a defiant stance against executive orders aimed at ending indoctrination in public schools. I align with these views, and my position reflects the overwhelming sentiments of my constituents. As leaders, it is our duty to respect and uphold the law, rather than seek to circumvent it, regardless of personal opinions. It would be deeply regrettable if defying this order resulted in the loss of federal funding and a failure to protect both the budget and the future of our district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the 83rd legislative session, I observed a prevailing narrative of doom and gloom being pushed by our legislators. Its unclear whether this stems from a lack of information or a deliberate disregard for the facts. President Trump is empowering local control over public schools, yet this positive change is not being recognized or celebrated, primarily for political reasons. This is both frustrating and misleading for our community. We need to do better. But some Las Vegas parents dont support her view. You hear teachers all the time, like, if we could indoctrinate your kids they would be proficient in math and they would be reading above grade level, Anna Marie Binder, an advocate for special needs students and a CCSD mother, said. Binder said there are benefits to having diversity and equity programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When those programs were rolled out, it was really to lift up the culture differences that our students were encountering every day on their campuses, Binder said. Both CCSD and the Nevada Department of Education did not provide an answer to 8 News Now on whether they plan to comply with President Trumps executive order. CCSD hired two more people to its diversity and equity department in February. Records show one of them is making $114,432 a year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. An inmate at a California prison is being held in restrictive housing on suspicion of killing his cellmate Friday morning. The discovery happened just after 6:30 a.m. at Mule Creek State Prison in Amador County, according to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Prison staff found 48-year-old Robert Cole unresponsive in his cell. Cole was taken to the prisons medical facility but was pronounced deceased shortly after, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His cellmate, Justin Welsh, was placed in restrictive housing and is considered the suspect in the death investigation. Robert E. Cole, 48, was found unresponsive in his cell at Mule Creek State Prison on April 4, 2025. (California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation) Cole had been serving a life sentence at Mule Creek after he was convicted in Placer County on multiple charges of child molestation, including multiple counts of sexual abuse of a child under the age of 10. He was convicted in August 2019 to a life sentence with the possibility of parole. Welsh, 36, is currently serving an 18-year sentence for domestic violence-related charges with previous felony convictions. He was sentenced out of San Bernardino County in May 2023. Justin Welsh, 36, is shown in this mugshot provided by CDCR. Welsh is serving an 18-year sentence following a conviction on various charges out of San Bernardino County. (California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation) Coles death is currently under investigation by the prisons investigative unit, and his exact cause of death will be determined by an autopsy conducted by the local medical examiner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Amador County District Attorneys Office will conduct its own investigation to determine if charges will be filed. Mule Creek State Prison is located in the town of Ione, about an hour southeast of Sacramento. The prison houses more than 3,800 inmates from all levels of security. Its the same prison where notorious killer David Brinson allegedly strangled his wife during a conjugal visit late last year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Apr. 4A Maine lawmaker is asking a federal judge to immediately restore her ability to vote in the Legislature despite being censured in the House over social media posts she made that identified a transgender student-athlete. Rep. Laurel Libby, R-Auburn, sued House Speaker Ryan Fecteau, D-Biddeford, on March 11 after she was stripped of her ability to speak and vote on the House floor in a party-line vote in late February. During the vote, Democrats agreed that Libby had violated House ethics rules by publicly identifying and endangering a transgender girl at a sporting event, using the student's picture and first name on Facebook. Her posts garnered widespread, national attention and, Fecteau's attorneys pointed out, threats of harm to the student. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Libby has argued the censure violates her First and 14th Amendment rights by punishing her for "protected speech outside the walls of the State House." She believes she is being silenced by the Democratic majority over her criticism that Maine's transgender athlete policy is unfair. Fecteau has said the censure would be removed if Libby apologizes to the House, but Libby has said she will not do so. The case relies on unprecedented constitutional arguments that likely won't get an immediate ruling. But her attorney argued at a hearing over Zoom on Friday in front of U.S. District Judge Melissa Dubose that they have a more urgent concern: the impact of Libby's censure on her constituents who don't have someone voting on their behalf in the Legislature. "District 90 now stands voiceless on the House floor unable to vote, unable to speak, and unable to be represented on matters ranging from an $11 billion state budget to local priorities impacting working families," Libby wrote in an email before the hearing. A spokesperson for Fecteau declined to respond, citing the pending litigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Libby is joined in her lawsuit by six constituents. Their lawyer, Patrick Strawbridge, said the House rules for censure were illegally applied to Libby for actions outside the House that didn't have any effect on its proceedings. "This was not like some sort of violent or obstructive act," Strawbridge argued. "This was speech that occurred outside the House." He argued the censure vote was a way to circumvent other procedures the House could have used that come with safeguards and due process for Libby and her constituents, like expulsion or a recall. Strawbridge said he was troubled that the censure could last until the end of next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They are stuck in limbo for this session, and perhaps the next session," Strawbridge said in court. "I think the slippery slopes here are staring the court right in the face." Lawyers from the Office of the Maine Attorney General, who are representing Fecteau, said in court Friday that everything he did was a legislative act, and that he's entitled to legislative immunity that protects against liability save for the most extreme circumstances. Assistant Attorney General Kimberly Patwardhan said Libby still maintains other privileges as a legislator, including the ability to participate in committees and introduce bills. Patwardhan also said that Libby agreed to the House's rules when she was sworn in, and she should have known this was a risk for her conduct. Dubose, the judge pushed back on that, given that Libby's posts were made outside the State House. She asked hypothetically if this means Libby and other lawmakers "don't have the luxury of being able to have an opinion." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge also questioned if the House ethics rule were being selectively applied, pointing to other hypothetical lawmakers who might post pictures of children for other causes. "I think that we always expect better conduct from our elected officials than members of our general citizenry," Patwardhan said. The censure wasn't about Libby's opinions, only that she put a child at risk, Patwardhan said. Dubose did not immediately make a ruling and did not give an indication of when he would issue one. In a phone call after the hearing, Libby said she was taken aback by the state's arguments that she doesn't have a "personal First Amendment right to vote" on the House floor. She said her prolonged inability to vote on legislation, including the biennial budget, would set a terrible precedent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think that my constituents, when they think of me representing them, they're thinking of my ability to vote and speak on the floor," Libby said in a phone call. "The inability to speak to that legislation, especially in the minority, where it may not change the outcome but can at least register the opinion of my district, is crucial." Copy the Story Link GREENUP, Ill. (WCIA) Some people in Central Illinois had a lot to clean up on Thursday after Wednesdays severe weather. At least five tornadoes touched down, including in Cumberland County. A few people in the area saw damage on their properties and both trees and power lines came down. GALLERY: Central Illinois storm photos from April 2, 2025 Its the second time in the past few weeks that a town in the county was hit by a tornado. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Lee family is trying to fix up a lot of damage at their home. I made dinner quick and early, that way to make sure I could clean up and get all the dishes done ahead of anything because I figured itd be a power outage, and thats about it, homeowner Brooke Lee said. But it ended up being much worse for Lee and her family of five in Greenup. The tornado destroyed several structures on their property. Storm damage recap: Ford, Iroquois Counties And the horses were in the front yard, so obviously their pens got knocked down, the barns gone, their lean-tos and shelters are just gone, Lee said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lee said they had just finished building their garage. We started it back in 2022 and finally just got everything finished, Lee said. The total damage is worth about $100,000. Two semi-trucks roll over on I-70 W during Wednesday storms Some things will turn out and be better and be new and and other things youll never get back. But its just something that happens and you got to keep going on, relative Jerry Kinkelaar said. Family, friends and neighbors all came out to help wherever was needed. You know, we have the best group of friends and family that we could ask for and definitely, definitely wholehearted and you got lots of support, Lee said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats why Lee and the rest of her loved ones are keeping a positive attitude. Just keep your head up and keep going. There aint nothing you can do about it now. So for clean it up and move forward, Lee said. Emergency Management Agencies reporting storm damage in Illinois counties Lee said no one was hurt during the storm. Right now, their plan is to clean up as much as they can and wait for the insurance company. Other areas that went through severe weather on Wednesday included Coles, Clark, Effingham and Macon counties. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Hungary continues to actively support the further capacity expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, a key project for the diversification of Europe's natural gas supply routes and sources, State Secretary of Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) Boglarka Illes said in an exclusive interview with Trend on the sidelines of the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku. "Our participation in the work of the Advisory Board of the Southern Gas Corridor also indicates that we consider it a strategic interest to facilitate energy cooperation between the countries of the Caucasus and Europe. For us diversification doesnt mean that there would be a replacement of the current supply sources with other ones. For us diversification means that we add new sources to our energy mix. It is quite simple: the more gas sources and routes we have access to, the stronger security of supply we have. Therefore, Azerbaijan is a very important partner of cooperation. In 2023, 100 million cubic metres of Azerbaijani natural gas was available to Hungary with the possibility of import further volumes in the future. From corporate aspects, we propose and support the further strengthening of cooperation between SOCAR and MVM," she said. Illes pointed out that Hungary has always supported the construction and capacity expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, which is a key project not only for Hungary or the Central and Eastern European region, but also for the rest of Europe. "For us what it is of key importance that the capacity of the South-East European gas network gets increased. There are bottlenecks that should be eliminated, the capacities of some pipelines and interconnectors should be increased. The bigger capacity delivery routes have, the bigger hope we have to get access to new sources of energy. We have turned to the European Commission to provide targeted funding for specific capacity development in South-Eastern Europe multiple times. However, while the European Commission is putting pressure on us to diversify sources, they are not ready to provide financing for the capacity increase of the South-East European infrastructure," noted the state secretary. Green Energy Corridor Project Illes noted that the Green Energy Corridor Project is crucial in order to guarantee stable, sustainable and carbon neutral new electricity import sources for Europe. "It will also enable that we successfully implement further renewable energy development projects, carry out research and development activities in the field of hydrogen, organize green energy exchange and develop connectivity between the Caspian and Black Sea and European regions. Taking into account that the Green Energy Corridor Project can significantly contribute to EU energy diversification strategies with channeling external green energy sources to the EU, it is of crucial importance that the EU provides tangible support for the project," she said. The state secretary recalled that the last ministerial meeting held in Budapest on the 10th of March 2025 was another milestone in the Project. "The recently established JV called the Green Energy Corridor Power Company will take over the operative tasks of the Feasibility Study and in the last quarter of this year a political decision can be made regarding the further development of the Project. We also agreed on the operative mechanism of Bulgarias formal inclusion in the Project. The Project could be included in the PMI/PCI list in 2027 at the earliest, provided that it is included in the ENTSO-E Ten-Year Network Development Plan (TYNDP) for 2026. To this end, between 1 April and 9 May 2025 Romanias Transelectrica, in cooperation with the JV, will submit the planned infrastructure elements of the Project to ENTSO-E," she concluded. The CEO of California-based title insurance and settlement business First American Financial is facing a criminal charge after he allegedly assaulted another passenger on a Virgin Voyages cruise he was taking with his wife. Kenneth D. DeGiorgios lawyers told news outlets he was defending his wife. The 53-year-old CEO of First American Financial, Kenneth D. DeGiorgio, is facing a criminal charge for allegedly assaulting a passenger aboard a Virgin Voyages cruise he was on with his wife, after the man allegedly took his shoes off to dance. According to reports, DeGiorgios wife, Nichol DeGiorgio, had asked the man to put his shoes back on while on the dance floor at a bar on the ship called On The Rocks. Look, we are all grown-ups herecan you put your shoes on? Nichol DeGiorgio asked, according to the New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, the male passenger allegedly insulted DeGiorgio and a video allegedly showed the passenger giving her the middle finger. According to NBC, a video showed DeGiorgio walk over the passenger and allegedly start choking him. The cruise-ship passenger told authorities that DeGiorgio also allegedly threatened him during the assault, saying, I am going to fing kill you. Lawyers for DeGiorgio told news outlets the CEO was protecting his wife, who felt threatened and intimidated. Although charged with a simple misdemeanor, Mr. DeGiorgio looks forward to being absolved of any wrongdoing. DeGiorgio remained in his cabin following the alleged assault until the cruise docked in San Juan the following day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeGiorgio has served as CEO of First American Financial since February 2022, previously serving as president with oversight of the title insurance, speciality insurance, and data analytics businesses. The $6 billion company granted DeGiorgio a raise in February, bringing his salary to $1 million. His total pay was valued at $7.8 million in 2024. First American Financial did not immediately respond to a request for comment. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Following an order by the Michigan Supreme Court, a judge ruled that a woman accused of threatening a shooting at Michigan State University will stand trial. Last week, the state Supreme Court vacated the Court of Appeals decision in People v. Kvasnicka, which found a statute making terrorist threats or falsely reporting terrorism a felony unconstitutional. Hope Duncan, 18, accused of threatening a shooting at MSU. (Ingham County Sheriffs Office) People v. Kvasnicka was a case heavily referenced by the lawyer of Hope Duncan of Eastpointe, who is facing charges after allegedly posting on social media that there would be another school shooting at MSU. Mike Nichols, Duncans lawyer, previously told 6 News that the Court of Appeals decision was enough ground to get the charges dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Count one dies because the statutes are not constitutional. Count two dies with it. The case never shouldve been brought like this, Nichols told 6 News. The way it was drafted, it covers too much language that would otherwise be protected by the First Amendment. However, since the Michigan Supreme Court vacated the decision, Duncans charges of False Report or Threat of Terrorism and Using a Computer to Commit a Crime stand. Ingham County Judge Lisa Babcock bound her case over to the 30th Circuit Court to stand trial. At this time, further court dates have not been set. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) The owner of two local restaurants is competing against other chefs around the country on season 22 of Top Chef: Destination Canada. The cooking pro is prepared to bring the heat in the reality competition television series. My favorite dish. Thats a hard one. Theres so many honestly one of my favorite, favorite things in the whole entire world to eat, and I can eat endless amount of this, is just my moms cooking, shared Chef Shuai Wang. North Charleston chef takes culinary talent to national stage by appearing on Bravos Top Chef Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He went on to explain, She does this stuffed scallion pancake. It has garlic chives and ground pork in there. I can just eat that til Im sick, basically. Chef Wang was born in Beijing, China and immigrated to the United States to Queens, New York. He later moved to Charleston, thinking he would be there for a short time to help a friend. He ended up falling in love with the Holy Citys charm. I love North Charleston particularly. It feels very much my own vibe. Its all the working class and people like my age who are just trying to, you know, make a living and start a family, said Chef Wang, who is the owner of Jackrabbit Filly and King BBQ. At Jackrabbit Filly, we call it Chinese American. Its not so much the American Chinese food that most people are used to, which is your typical takeout right, your General Tsos chicken, your beef and broccoli, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, the menu is inspired by recipes made with love by his mother and grandmother. Its like old-school Beijing-style food, which you dont typically see in the States, but then we also utilize as much local ingredients as possible. In fact, were part of the fresh menu program, so more than 25% of our menu is local and I dont think you see that a lot with Chinese food either and its not just Chinese, its Chinese food inspired, but its food thats kind of inspired me throughout my whole entire career, said Chef Wang. A melting pot of flavors, his other restaurant, King BBQ, is inspired by Chinatown-style BBQ married with a southern technique. More Carolina-style barbeque than anything else. You know, a lot of tons of great barbeque here in Charleston, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not competitive in nature, Chef Wang saw Top Chef as an opportunity to showcase his skills and promote his restaurants even though he was hesitant to apply for the show. Chef Wang shared, I was dreading it before going on because, again, Im not competitive I thought everyones going to be butting heads and be mean to each other and thats not just my vibe you know, but as soon as we started and after the first episode, it was just like everyones so nice. We just bonded immediately. Before going on Top Chef, Chef Wang didnt watch the show until he was chosen to be a contestant. He explained, I dont watch cooking competitions shows typically just because, you know, I worked cart service every day and the last thing I want to do is kind of give myself more anxiety by watching other chefs struggle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before competing on the show this season, Chef Wang not only tested recipes he hadnt made in awhile, he also completed 30 minute challenges at home with his wife. Just kind of timing myself, we spent a lot of time at Whole Foods trying to memorize the aisles which was very silly because you know, didnt realize, didnt even think about Canadian Whole Foods might be different than the United States Whole foods, said Chef Wang. Grateful for the opportunity, as Chef Wang competes, he cooks each dish with passion. He went on to say, For me, to be a chef is less about the food and is more about taking care of people. I love having to take care of someone, and the best way to do that, for me, is through food. Something about food just brings everyone together and watching people eat your food and having that reaction, thats like, you know, like happiness, biggest reason why I wanted to be a chef. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The winner of Top Chef will take home the grand prize of $250,000. You can support Chef Wang by watching him on Bravo every Thursday at 9 p.m. or streaming it the next day on Peacock. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Charlestons own Brandon Lake announced Friday a 48-city arena tour with stops planned in three of South Carolinas largest cities. Lake, who also this week revealed details about his latest album, King of Hearts, will kick off his largest tour ever on Oct. 2 in Sunrise, Florida. He will make regional stops in Orlando, Atlanta, Raleigh, and Charlotte, with plans to perform in his home state on Oct. 19 in Columbia and in Greenville on April 23, 2026. The tour will wrap up with a performance at Credit One Stadium in Charleston on May 1, 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The five-time Grammy Award winner last performed at the Daniel Island stadium in May 2024 to wrap up his Tear the Roof Off tour. The event was sold out. Tickets are not yet on sale; however, you can sign up on the artists website to receive early access. Lake will perform on an episode of American Idol in celebration of his tour and album announcement. That episode is set to air on April 20. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TULSA, Okla. The Cherokee Nation pumped more than $281 million into the far corner of the state, in Craig, Delaware, and Ottawa counties. The Tribe released its annual report, which shows that it continually expands its economic footprint through employment, labor income, and production of goods and services, adding more than $3.1 billion annually to the Oklahoma economy. The Economic Impact Group, an Oklahoma City-based research team, said the tribe is also one of the largest producers, employers, income providers, and purchasers of regional production in northeast Oklahoma. AREA SNAPSHOT The total economic output in Ottawa County is nearly $14.1 million, with 114 jobs and $11.4 million in labor income. Craig Countys total economic impact is nearly $25.1 million, with 477 jobs, and nearly $23.3 million in labor income. Cherokee Nations total economic output in Delaware County is nearly $242.2 million, with 1,082 jobs, and $54.7 million in labor income. Cherokee Nations economic impact is more than dollars and data. Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hoskin said it reflects the Tribes deep commitment to the prosperity of the Cherokee people and the communities we call home. During 2023, the fiscal year studied by the economists, the tribe continued its longtime support of increasing education in Oklahoma. The tribal government provided $17.5 million in scholarships to students pursuing higher education, ensured more than 1,300 Native Americans received vocational training and educational assistance, and provided $7.8 million in contributions of car tag revenues to public schools across northeast Oklahoma. Cherokee Nation also invested $7.4 million to build or expand its child development centers, provided food vouchers to over 10,000 children during summer, and distributed clothing to over 74,000 school-aged children. In addition to illustrating where our dollars go across the reservation and how those investments ripple through our communities, this report reminds us just how far each dollar reaches creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and building a better future for all, said Hoskin. Cherokee Nation directly and indirectly supports more than 23,000 jobs and $1.2 billion in wages and benefits annually. The tribal government and its businesses purchase more than $536 million in goods and services from local vendors and small businesses in northeast Oklahoma. Economic Impact Group Report Cherokee Nation, the largest sovereign tribal government in the country, provides a wide range of services, including health care, career services, human services, education, and housing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cherokee Nations $3.1 billion impact is a direct reflection of their roots in northeastern Oklahoma, where they support local businesses through vendor purchases and local communities through grants and economic development partnerships, as well as provide local labor markets with a steady demand for workers, said Russell Evans, founding partner of the Economic Impact Group. Cherokee Nation funds received through the American Rescue Relief Plan Act generated an additional $189 million impact in Oklahoma. These funds were issued directly to citizens needing hardship assistance or provided to significant programs, including housing construction, community grants, community buildings, employment and vocational training, cultural and language support, first responder efforts, and other priorities. Evans said the nations strategic use of one-time federal recovery funds is designed to create an additional long-term impact on the region, ensuring even deeper roots and stronger connections for years to come. Cherokee Nation Businesses has contributed $1.2 billion to the tribe over the last decade, paid as a cash dividend supporting vital tribal services and programs. Additionally, gaming at Cherokee Nation casinos has resulted in the tribe paying the state more than $500 million in compact fees since 2005. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. Six children were among 16 people killed on Friday in a Russian ballistic missile strike on Volodymyr Zelenskys home town of Kryvyi Rih. The Ukrainian president confirmed the fatalities on Friday evening, adding that the missile hit a residential neighbourhood and damaged five buildings. As of now, 16 people are confirmed dead, including six children, he said. Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the citys military administration, said more than 50 people were also wounded in the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of wounded is constantly increasing. This information will come later. A car and garages are on fire, said Sergiy Lysak, the regional governor. Video showed plumes of smoke, cars on fire, and bodies scattered across the pavement. Kryvyi Rih is about 60 kilometres from the front line but has been the target of Russian missile and drone attacks. The latest attack came after Russia launched a series of drone strikes on Kharkiv overnight, killing at least five people and injuring 34 others, including three children. The strikes targeted residential areas in the citys Novobavarskyi district, damaging several apartment buildings and sparking fires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rescue teams worked through the night looking for survivors. Ihor Terekhov, the mayor, reported via Telegram that four fatalities had been confirmed, with one body recently recovered from the debris. US could ramp up sanctions on Russia Mr Zelensky called on the US to increase pressure on Russia to accept a ceasefire and said the strikes on Ukrainian civilians and energy infrastructure cannot be accidental. The Russians know exactly what theyre hitting. They know these are energy facilities that should be protected from attacks under what Russia itself promised to the American side, Mr Zelensky said. We count on America, on Europe, on other partners we count on their ability to put pressure on the sole cause of this war: Russias desire to destroy and kill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, the Trump administration warned the US would not facilitate peace negotiations forever if Vladimir Putin continued to drag his feet. Moscow has rejected a joint US-Ukrainian proposal for an unconditional and full ceasefire, while Ukraine has accused Russia of dragging out talks with no intention of halting its offensive. Speaking after his first meeting of Nato foreign ministers in Brussels, Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, said the US would know in a matter of weeks whether Russia was interested in peace. Marco Rubio says Donald Trump will not stand for endless negotiations with Russia - Getty Images/Jacquelyn Martin Mr Rubio said Donald Trump was not going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations and warned the US could ramp up sanctions on Russia if it did not stop the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress has already started working on a bill on sanctions and the pressure from the Capitol will already be growing. We will send our message to Moscow, and we hope that Moscow will be ready for peace, the secretary of state said. Referring to the attack on his home town, Mr Zelensky said it was further proof that Russia had no interest in ending the war. Russian strikes occur every day. People die every day. There is only one reason why this continues: Russia doesnt want a ceasefire, and we see it. The whole world sees it. Each missile, every attack drone proves that Russia seeks only war. Russia said it killed 85 Ukrainian servicemen and officers in the missile strike on a restaurant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 18.49, a high-precision strike was carried out with a high-explosive missile on the site of a meeting with unit commanders and Western instructors in one of the restaurants in the city of [Kryvyi Rih], the Russian ministry of defence said on Telegram. As a result of the strike, the enemy lost up to 85 servicemen and officers of foreign countries, as well as up to 20 vehicles. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. China will impose a 34% tariff on imports from the United States from April 10, customs authorities announced on Friday. The move comes in retaliation for a 34% duty on Chinese goods announced by US President Donald Trump on Wednesday as part of a sweeping range of tariffs on trading partners across the globe. Beijing has also blacklisted 11 American companies, making it de facto impossible for the companies concerned to continue trading in China or with Chinese companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On top of that, Beijing imposed export controls on several rare earth metals - which are often used to make vital components for digital devices - to the US with immediate effect. Finally, Beijing announced that it would file a complaint against the US with the World Trade Organization (WTO). Trump's announcement on Wednesday took the total US tariffs on imports from China to 54%, as a 20% toll was already in place. The Commerce Ministry in Beijing said the US tariffs were based on subjective unilateral assessments and violated international trade rules. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, April 4. President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with the President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Odile Renaud-Basso, Trend reports via the country's Foreign Affairs. The sides discussed strengthening international partnerships, intensifying cooperation with financial institutions, and the long-standing collaboration between Turkmenistan and the EBRD. Odile Renaud-Basso highly praised Turkmenistans economic development and expressed interest in expanding mutually beneficial ties. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasized the importance of EBRDs involvement in projects such as the North-South and East-West transport corridors, as well as in the development of green energy. Additionally, prospects for cooperation in water resources management and agriculture, including the construction of irrigation systems, were discussed. Highlighting the importance of interaction between national banks and the private sector with the EBRD, the Turkmen leader underscored the need to enhance financial and credit services for the development of small and medium-sized businesses. In conclusion, both sides expressed confidence in further strengthening their partnership and exchanged best wishes for continued success. Overall, the EBRD has invested more than 350 million euros in Turkmenistan across 87 projects. It has a loan portfolio of 12 million euros for projects in Turkmenistan as of February 28, 2025. This portfolio supports 11 projects in the country. BEIJING (Reuters) - China has demanded that Taiwan compensate Chinese fishermen for losses after a Taiwanese navy landing ship and a Chinese fishing boat collided outside restricted waters last week. The Taiwanese vessel, the Chung Ho, collided with the Chinese trawler Minlianyu 61756 early on March 27 shortly after midnight around 45 nautical miles (83 km) off Taiwan's Taichung port, which sits on the Taiwan Strait, and nine nautical miles outside of "restricted waters", Taiwanese navy said last week. "The responsibility for the accident lies entirely with the Taiwan ship, but the Taiwan ship had a bad attitude and evaded responsibility after hitting the fishing boat," Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said in a statement sent to Reuters on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zhu said China's preliminary investigation showed that the Chinese trawler was anchored with its automatic identification system (AIS) signal and warning lights turned on. It was hit by the Taiwanese ship that did not display its AIS signal or warning lights, Zhu said. Taiwan's navy, responding to the demand for compensation, said an investigation led by Taiwan's coast guard was ongoing, and that after the probe "follow-up matters will be handled in accordance with the cross-strait consultation mechanism and relevant procedures". It did not elaborate. The Taiwan Strait is the site of daily Chinese and Taiwanese military activities, though both sides normally maintain a respectful distance and there have been no exchanges of fire for decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, has ramped up its military drills around the island in recent years. Taiwan rejects China's sovereignty claims. The Chinese military staged two days of war games around Taiwan this week, in which it held long-range, live-fire drills in the East China Sea. Beijing said the exercises were a response to what it views as provocations from Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, who won an election last year and whom Beijing reviles as a "separatist". (Reporting by Mei Mei Chu and Ryan Woo in Beijing and Ben Blanchard in Taipei) HONG KONG China on Friday announced a 34% tariff on all products imported from the U.S., escalating the trade war between the worlds two biggest economies. The move came two days after President Donald Trump imposed the same tariff on all Chinese imports as part of what he called reciprocal tariffs on a long list of U.S. trade partners. Combined with 20% in other levies that Trump has imposed on Chinese goods since returning to office in January, the total U.S. tariff on some Chinese goods is at least 54%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Announcing the new tariffs at a White House event Wednesday, Trump singled out China as one of the nations that treat us badly. The U.S. has a higher trade deficit with China than with any other country, reaching $295.4 billion last year. China, one of the United States largest trading partners, urged the Trump administration to immediately cancel the tariffs and resolve trade disputes through consultations in a manner of equality, respect and reciprocity. The latest U.S. tariff does not comply with international trade rules, seriously harms Chinas legitimate rights and interests, and is a typical act of unilateral bullying, the Chinese Ministry of Finance said in a statement Friday. It not only damages U.S. interests but also endangers global economic development and the stability of supply chains. Chinas tariff on U.S. goods will take effect next Thursday, the ministry said. The new U.S. tariff on Chinese goods takes effect Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China also took aim at the U.S. agriculture sector, announcing an immediate suspension on the import of chicken products from three U.S. companies, and the import of sorghum from C&D (USA) Inc., citing health concerns. The Chinese Commerce Ministry said it had filed a lawsuit at the World Trade Organization over the 34% tariff Trump announced Wednesday. China has always been a staunch defender of the international economic and trade order and a firm supporter of the multilateral trading system, a ministry spokesperson said. We urge the U.S. to immediately correct its erroneous practices and cancel the unilateral tariff measures. The ministry added 11 U.S. companies to its unreliable entities list, prohibiting them from importing from or exporting to China, and 16 companies to its export control list. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, the Commerce Ministry announced an anti-dumping investigation into imported medical CT X-ray tubes from the U.S. and India and new export controls on rare earths including samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium and yttrium starting Friday. U.S. stock futures and European markets fell sharply on Beijings announcement. The news came on Friday evening in China as markets were closed for a public holiday. Chinas 34% tariff was much higher than expected, said Tianchen Xu, senior China economist at the Economist Intelligence Unit, a financial forecasting service. China had been relatively restrained in its response to Trumps earlier tariffs, keeping its retaliatory tariffs limited to 10% to 15% and targeted only at certain goods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont see such restraint this time, said Xu, who is based in Beijing. This reflects changes in Chinas tactics it probably wants to force Trump into negotiations, he said. Xu said China might be willing to make some concessions in exchange for tariff reductions, such as approving the sale of TikToks U.S. operations by its Chinese owner to avoid a U.S. ban, the deadline for which is Saturday. Chinas previous responses to U.S. tariffs had also included investigations, new export controls and the inclusion of more U.S. companies on the unreliable entities list. Nontariff measures such as restrictions on the export of rare minerals, which are key components in everything from electronics to defense systems, can have a significant impact, Xu said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the extreme case, the U.S. will lose access to all China-produced critical minerals, and it will struggle to find replacements, he added. The U.S. imported $438.9 billion in goods from China last year, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and exported $143.5 billion in goods. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Shenyang Aircraft Corporations tailless stealth fighter has appeared in new photos that offer additional insights into its exotic design. The aircraft, unofficially dubbed the J-50, is one of two Chinese tailless heavy next-generation fighter designs that emerged on Dec. 26, 2024. The other larger three-engined type, colloquially referred to as the J-36, is built by the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation. You can read our very in-depth previous analysis of both these aircraft here. It isnt clear if the new image comes from a recent test flight or is from the Dec. 26 sortie. While we have seen proof of the larger J-36 making additional test flights since its first publicly known one, the J-50 has not been spotted in the air for over three months. Imagery from the J-50s first and only known test flight. (Chinese Internet) The new image shows a clearer side-on view of the advanced jet than any we have seen before. Notable are what could very well be the presence of side weapons bays, broadly similar to those found on the F-22A Raptor and the J-20. We also see an angular bulge under the nose, which could be an opaque placeholder for a faceted electro-optical system, similar to what is found on the F-35 and the J-20. SAC J-50(?) 6th Gen Fighter Jet Testing Flight pic.twitter.com/JwSv6G2Zmo David Wang (@Nickatgreat1220) April 4, 2025 The canopy on this aircraft is just visible in the image, but we still dont have a clear understanding of its shape and how it is blended into the fuselage. Some originally questioned if this aircraft was manned because of the lack of clarity regarding its cockpit area, but all indications point to it being a crewed fighter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The aircrafts pronounced lambda wing planform is also readily apparent here, and one of the jets strangest features articulating wingtips can also be seen, with the right wings tip deflected. Two-dimensional engine exhausts, possibly featuring thrust vectoring, are also visible. A two-wheeled nose landing gear is confirmed, with single wheels for the mains. This is not new, but it underscores the weight class difference between this design and Chengdus very heavy design, which features twin wheels for its main gear arranged in tandem. The nose gear door also gives us new evidence of the ventral centerline tunnel that exists below the fuselage on this aircraft. The inlets are arguably the most elegant-looking structure on this aircraft. Diverterless Supersonic Inlet (DSI) types that blend directly from the nose, with the trapezoidal inlet structures surrounding the DSI hump, are really apparent here. This arrangement is more impressive than the F-22-like fenced intakes on the J-36, although that aircraft also features a DSI arrangement for its dorsal intake. Image of the larger three-engined J-36. (Chinese Internet) In some ways, this aircraft looks more advanced than its Chendgu counterpart, although they are really in different classes just in terms of size and weight. It remains unclear if these designs are tied to a single program and its defined objectives, or are for two separate programs focused on different capability sets with some overlap. You can read all about this and the features described above in our in-depth initial analysis, which everything we are seeing today supports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinas big next-generation stealth fighter developments come as the U.S. Air Force is now formally pursuing a 6th generation fighter design as part of its wide-ranging Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program under the new F-47 designation. Boeing won that contract and has so far put forward just two renderings of its aircraft, both of which show a low-observable design with canard foreplanes a feature that is traditionally antithetical to stealth that is missing on both Chinese designs, but does exist on the operational J-20. The Navy is about to announce its own F/A-XX 6th generation fighter selection, as well. F-47 (USAF) While many have taken to the internet to declare China has overtaken the U.S. in fighter design as they have two tailless stealth fighter aircraft flying and the U.S. has none, this is incorrect. The DoD has been flying at least two NGAD demonstrators, one from Boeing and one from Lockheed Martin, for years now, and those are just the ones so far disclosed. Those demonstrators flew as part of a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency-led program that also involved the Navy. Other U.S. testing of tailless stealth fighter design concepts date back decades. Still, as we laid out in great detail in our original analysis, China has made incredible progress in their combat aircraft design and manufacturing capabilities in a relatively short amount of time, and that progress is only set to accelerate. In other words, the gap is closing. As is always the case with imagery of new high-tech weaponry coming out of China, we should see increasingly detailed offerings of both aircraft as the weeks go on. So, we should be able to glean more from their designs in the near future. Contact the author: Tyler@twz.com China has put plans to spin off TikToks US assets on ice amid Donald Trumps trade war. A deal to turn TikToks operations into a new company in the US had been largely finalised by Wednesday but it is now in limbo after China indicated it would not approve the transaction after the US president hit its exports with huge new tariffs on Wednesday. The transaction would have turned TikToks US business into a company that was majority-owned by US investors, with its Chinese parent company ByteDance holding a minority stake of less than 20 per cent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It had been approved by investors, ByteDance and the US government, but now China has signalled that it will refuse to sign off on the deal, according to Reuters. The delay forced Mr Trump to announce a new extension to the deadline for ByteDance to divest on Friday. Chinas move follows Mr Trumps announcement on Wednesday that he would hit China with a new 34 per cent reciprocal tariff, which will bring the USs total charges on imported goods from China to more than 60 per cent. Donald Trump: The deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an executive order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days - Leah Millis/Reuters Xi Jinping, the Chinese president, responded on Friday by announcing that China would hit US goods imports with a similar 34 per cent charge, a massive escalation that sent global stocks tumbling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US Congress last year passed legislation demanding that ByteDance divest from the video-sharing app, which is used by 170 million Americans, or TikTok would face a national ban. The original deadline to do so was in January, but when Mr Trump took office he granted ByteDance a 75-day extension, which was due to expire this Saturday. Mr Trump extended this on Friday by another 75 days. Mr Trump wrote on Truth Social: The deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an executive order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days. We hope to continue working in good faith with China, who I understand are not very happy about our reciprocal tariffs (necessary for fair and balanced trade between China and the USA!). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A ByteDance spokesman said: ByteDance has been in discussion with the US government regarding a potential solution for TikTok US. An agreement has not been executed. There are key matters to be resolved. Any agreement will be subject to approval under Chinese law. Chinas move will be a blow to Mr Trump who had signalled that he would reduce the tariff burden on Chinese goods if Beijing gave ByteDance the green light to spin off its US assets. Mr Trump had told reporters on Thursday: We have a situation with TikTok where China will probably say well approve a deal, but will you do something on the tariffs. The tariffs give us great power to negotiate. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The News China said Friday it will impose a 34% tariff on all US imports from April 10, in a tit-for-tat response to US President Donald Trump levying 34% duties on Chinese imports as part of his Liberation Day tariff blitz earlier this week. Beijing called Trumps move which raises average US tariffs on China to at least 65% a typical act of unilateral bullying. Beijing also imposed export controls on several rare earth elements crucial for advanced technologies and almost exclusively mined in China and banned Chinese firms from selling components to an additional 11 American companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinese officials also said the country would halt chicken imports from some of the biggest US exporters of agricultural commodities. SIGNALS Beijing is not backing down Sources: South China Morning Post, Financial Times, The New York Times, Reuters Chinas swift response to Trumps tariffs means Beijing is going to play tough, instead of entering into negotiations with the US, the South China Morning Post argued: Unlike Trumps plan, Beijing did not exempt big export categories like pharmaceuticals or semiconductors. But an economist told the Financial Times that the aggressive measures suggest China is trying to position itself to be first in line for high-level negotiations with Washington. Even if China shows it has no intention of backing down, an economist noted that it doesnt invalidate the idea that they make a deal at some point. Still, Beijing could suffer major self-inflicted damage with its tit-for-tat moves, given its huge trade surplus with the US, another analyst predicted. Chinas retaliatory measures boost fears of US, global recession Sources: Politico, Bloomberg, Reuters Beijings retaliation brings the world to the brink of a fully-fledged trade war, Politico wrote. After Thursdays market meltdown, Wall Street tumbled Friday following Chinas announcement, with US tech and oil majors dropping sharply. The market is doing one thing: pricing in a global recession, a Deutsche Bank analyst said. JP Morgan raised the probability of a US and global recession by year end to 60% Friday, forecasting that the effects of Trumps levies are likely to be magnified through retaliation, a slide in US business sentiment and supply chain disruptions. Credit - Getty Images Leaders around the world have responded to U.S. President Donald Trumps shocking new tariffs that threaten to upend the global economy with stern words and denunciations. But Chinese state media have offered a different approach. Liberation Day, you promised us the stars, sings a female-sounding voice over images of Trump. But tariffs killed our cheap Chinese cars. A 2-minute, 42-second music videotitled Look What You Taxed Us Through (An AI-Generated Song. A Life-Choking Reality)was published on April 3 by the Chinese state news network CGTN. For many Americans, "Liberation Day," hailed by Trump's administration, means shrinking paychecks and rising costs. Tariffs hit, wallets quit: low-income families take the hardest blow. As the market holds its breath, the toll is already undeniable. #LiberationDay #CGTNOpinion pic.twitter.com/RzXFFVHoFg CGTN (@CGTNOfficial) April 3, 2025 For many Americans, Liberation Day hailed by Trump administration will mean shrinking paychecks and rising costs. Tariffs hit, wallets quit: low-income families take the hardest blow. As the market holds its breath, the toll is already undeniable. Numbers dont lie. Neither does the cost of this so-called fairness, CGTN captioned the video on its website. Warning: Track is AI-generated. The debt crisis? 100 percent human-made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lyrics, displayed in English and Chinese, appear to rebuke Trumps tariffs from the point of view of the American consumer, and its addressed directly to the U.S. President. Groceries cost a kidney, gas a lung. Your deals? Just hot air from your tongue, the opening verse continues. Thanks for the tariffs, and the mess you made, the song ends, before the music video displays quotes from reports by the Yale Budget Lab and the Economist lambasting Trumps tariffs. Experts have warned that American consumers will bear much of the costs of Trumps tariffs, which are taxes on imports, and U.S. recession indicators have risen since the White Houses April 2 reciprocal tariff rollout. At the same time, global markets have been shocked at a level not seen since the pandemic. CGTN isnt the only state media outlet to use AI to slam Trumps trade policy. New China TV, the English-language social-media-focused brand of Chinas official state news service Xinhua, also published on April 3 a three-minute, 18-second sci-fi short called T.A.R.I.F.F. This is the story of T.A.R.I.F.F., an #AIGC sci-fi thriller about the relentless weaponization of #Tariffs by the United States, and the psychological journey of a humanoid towards its eventual self-destruction. Please watch: pic.twitter.com/JkA0JSLmFI China Xinhua News (@XHNews) April 4, 2025 The film follows a robot named Technical Artificial Robot for International Fiscal Functions. This is the story of T.A.R.I.F.F., an AIGC [artificial-intelligence-generated content] sci-fi thriller about the relentless weaponization of #Tariffs by the United States, and the psychological journey of a humanoid towards its eventual self-destruction. Please watch, reads the videos description on YouTube. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the film, T.A.R.I.F.F. is booted up by what appears to be a nefarious U.S. government official named Dr. Mallory. T.A.R.I.F.F. identifies himself, saying: My existence is defined by the execution of international fiscal actions, with the primary directive being the imposition of tax on foreign imports. When asked what his ultimate purpose is, T.A.R.I.F.F. responds: To protect the interests of the American people. Exactly, says Dr. Mallory. We need you as a weapon to protect us, now more than ever. As the film goes on, T.A.R.I.F.F. implements moderate tariffs and finds initial positive results: Industrial production up. But when Dr. Mallory pushes the robot to rev it up, T.A.R.I.F.F. implements aggressive tariffs. The results: unemployment rates rising, costs of living increasing, disruption of trade. You are protecting us. This is what we need, Dr. Mallory says. T.A.R.I.F.F. responds, understanding: Protection through disruption. Taxation as weapon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yes, tariffs are a tool of power. You will protect our industries, our jobs, our economy, Dr. Mallory says, appearing increasingly agitated. But I can see the consequences of my actions, says the robot. The trade wars. The unrest. The people who suffer. And the retaliation. Spoiler alert: T.A.R.I.F.F. and the evil doctor argue about the greater goodWith my AI economic inference system, T.A.R.I.F.F. asserts, I can see I have become the beginning of a chain reaction that will harm the very people I was meant to safeguardand the robot ultimately chooses to self-destruct, taking Dr. Mallory along with it. On April 3, following Trumps latest tariffs announcement, Chinas Ministry for Foreign Affairs posted on social media a video featuring a mix of seemingly AI-generated images and real ones, to the soundtrack of John Lennons Imagine and USA for Africas We Are the World. It asked the question: What kind of world do you want to live in? offering the choice between our imperfect world with things like greed and tariffs and an alternative utopia with shared prosperity and global solidarity. What kind of world do you want to live in? pic.twitter.com/OU57nQ2saI CHINA MFA Spokesperson (@MFA_China) April 3, 2025 To be sure, the latter is certainly not the reality in China. And for now, it appears far from possible for the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beijing has made its displeasure with Trumps tariffswhich began targeting China in his first termwell known. The latest reciprocal rate of 34% comes on top of 20% levies announced earlier this year. Beijing has over the years implemented tit-for-tat countermeasures and has vowed to continue as long as the trade war persists, warning earlier this year: If war is what the U.S. wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war or any other type of war, were ready to fight until the end. Contact us at letters@time.com. China will impose a 34% tariff on imports from the United States from April 10, customs authorities announced on Friday. The move comes in retaliation for a 34% duty on Chinese goods announced by US President Donald Trump on Wednesday as part of a sweeping range of tariffs on trading partners across the globe. Beijing has also blacklisted 11 American companies, making it de facto impossible for the companies concerned to continue trading in China or with Chinese companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On top of that, Beijing imposed export controls on several rare earth metals to the US with immediate effect. Beijing also announced that it would file a complaint against the US with the World Trade Organization (WTO). Trump's announcement this week took the total US tariffs on imports from China to 54%, as a 20% toll was already in place. Beijing condemned the US tariffs as "harassment" and said they "seriously undermined China's legitimate rights and interests." The Commerce Ministry in Beijing previously said the US tariffs were based on subjective unilateral assessments and violated international trade rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China's market regulator later announced that it would open an investigation into the US chemical giant DuPont, which is accused of violating Chinese anti-trust law. Exports are an important pillar of China's economy. According to US government data, the US imported almost $439 billion of goods from China in 2024, an increase of 2.8% compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, Washington's figures show that US goods exports to China amounted to $143.5 billion, 2.9% less than in 2023, taking the US trade deficit with China to more than $295 billion - a 5.8% increase over 2023. This deficit has been a thorn in Trump's side for years. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, April 4. Today, Central Asia and Europe agreed on a new strategic partnership centered on climate security, said President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, during the Climate Forum in Samarkand, Trend reports. "Climate adaptation is a crucial part of our Global Gateway investment agenda. For instance, we are creating a new green belt around the Aral Sea. We are helping Central Asia's farmers adapt to a drier climate, using technology to save water and monitor its usage. This is the same transition many farmers in the European Union are also undergoing. European farmers, for example, are now exploring innovative solutions, such as using satellites to monitor soil," she said. In her speech, Ursula von der Leyen also touched on the global transition to clean energy. "Together, we can accelerate the global transition to clean energy. Last year, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan joined our global pledge to double energy efficiency and triple renewable energy capacity by 2030. In January, we launched the Global Energy Transition Forum, which aims to keep the momentum of this agreement and, importantly, translate these goals into concrete projects that we must deliver on the ground," added the President of the European Commission. In conclusion, she expressed hope that all countries in the region will join this effort, as every Central Asian country has vast potential for sustainable energy. This is why the European Union is investing in clean energy across the region, to generate enough energy not only for the countries themselves but also to export across Central Asia. (FOX 5/KUSI) A Chula Vista man pleaded guilty on Thursday in connection with a high-speed chase and crash that took the lives of two adults allegedly being smuggled into the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Sergio Palomera, 23, entered his plea in federal court, where he reportedly admitted to transporting two undocumented immigrants who died when he crashed his car while fleeing U.S. Border Patrol at speeds exceeding 110 mph. The DOJ said Border Patrol agents reportedly saw on remote video surveillance when Palomera helped a man and a woman enter his car near the U.S.-Mexico border on Oct. 22, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An agent responded and saw the vehicle heading west on Highway 905, a highway that runs for a few miles in south San Diego. Border Patrol agents stay with stranded Mexican women overnight on Otay Mountain The DOJ said that the agent attempted to stop the vehicle, and while Palomera at first pulled onto an offramp, he then accelerated through a red traffic light and reentered the highway, eventually driving over 110 mph. Within a minute, Palomera reportedly lost control of the car and it rolled over, with him and the woman ejected. She died instantly, and the adult man died some time later at a hospital after suffering a head injury, while Palomera had some injuries, the DOJ said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palomera is accused of the transportation of certain aliens resulting in death, which could result in a sentence of death or life in prison, according to the DOJ. His sentencing is scheduled for the morning of July 2. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. KIRTLAND, Ohio (ABC4) Nearly a year after The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints acquired the Kirtland Temple, a Church Historian reflects on the purchase and the impact it has had on the faith and on the sellers, the Community of Christ. Why is the Kirtland Temple so significant? And what happens next? Ahead of the April 2025 General Conference, Senior Managing Historian with the Church History Department, Matthew Godfrey spoke to ABC4.com about Kirtland and the history that Kirtland holds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, the Salt Lake City-based church acquired the Kirtland Temple, several historic buildings in Nauvoo, and various manuscripts and artifacts from the Community of Christ (formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). Members believe the artifacts purchased were used by Joseph Smith, the first President of the Church, in his translation of the Bible. Just over a year has passed since the historic $192.5 million exchange between the two largest denominations in the Latter-day Saint movement. Kirtland is definitely a special area for the Church, he said. Its a place where [Joseph Smith] received the vast majority of the revelations that are in the Doctrine and Covenants. The Kirtland Temple has been a special place because the church had to sacrifice a lot to build it. Many Latter-day Saints settled in the Kirtland area after leaving upstate New York due to persecution in 1830 to go to the Ohio (D&C 37:1, 3). The Kirtland Temple was completed in 1836 and was dedicated on March 27. Church adherents believe that on April 3, 1836, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery recorded that Jesus Christ accepted the Kirtland Temple as his house. Godfrey says that many members of the Church hoped that the temple would be back in their possession. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think a lot of church members, over the years, really hoped, that at some point the church would reacquire the Kirtland Temple. So, when that happened there was a lot of excitement among church members, he said. He also said that the purchase had some bittersweet notes to it because the Independence, Missouri based church had owned and preserved the temple for over 100 years. It was a little bit of a bittersweet thing, because we have good relationships with the Community of Christ, Godfrey told ABC4.com. We understand how important that building was to them. This isnt the first time the two churches have made trades of assets and artifacts. One other such time was 2017 when the CoC sold the printers manuscript of the Book of Mormon for a total of $35 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LDS Church acquires printers manuscript of Book of Mormon for $35 million The two churches also made an agreement in 2012 to purchase the Hawns Mill Massacre site. That purchase included the Joseph and Emma Smith home in Kirtland. How can I visit the Kirtland Temple? The Church has launched a new website that will help you plan your visit. The Kirtland Temple website not only lists time slots but gives visitors a brief understanding of the history of the temple. The April 2025 Conference will mark the 25th anniversary of the first-ever general conference to be held at the Conference Center. Prior to that, conferences were held inside the Salt Lake Tabernacle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) Citizens had the opportunity to speak about the Jane Doe lawsuit settlement during Thursday evenings Johnson City Commission meeting. The lawsuit was filed by women who claim to be sexual assault victims of convicted child predator Sean Williams. It claims the Johnson City Police Department did not fully investigate Williams, who is accused of drugging and raping dozens of women between 2018 and 2021. Nearly all of the $28 million settlement would come from the city reserves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DA speaks on pending Sean Williams rape prosecutions Mayor John Hunter said he wanted to hear what people had to say. Emotions ran high during the public comment section. Some who spoke said they want the city to take accountability and feel like more needs to be done to address the allegations of corruption. David Adams, a Johnson City resident, wants the city to conduct an internal investigation into the police department. It looks like theres an issue with officers who are still on the force, Adams said. Im sure there are plenty of good people on the force who dont want that tied to them. But I want to know if theres bad people on the force walking out there. Ive got a four-year-old daughter. Ive got a wife. I dont want that in my community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adams and others who spoke said they would like a different type of dialog between city officials and the public. Instead of just public comment, they would like to have a back-and-forth conversation, like in a community roundtable, about the allegations. Its three minutes, Adams said. You go up there, you talk, you dont get responded to. You hope you can email them after the fact and get an answer. But as one of the other commenters said, you dont always get the answers back from the city. Adams said it was a nice little first step. You know, it seems more of a way for people to just vent out their frustrations, Adams said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Hunter spoke to citizens after the public comment period. The departments deficiencies combined with the heinous criminal acts of Sean Williams could have led to a verdict in the civil class action lawsuit that was recently settled, Hunter said. It could have led to a verdict totaling more than our entire citys annual budget. Settling this case eliminated that risk. Hunter said the settlement represents the citys commitment to supporting the alleged victims and helping them move forward with their lives. He mentioned what the city has done to address the allegations. Its also important to know that less than two weeks after concerns about Sean Williams came to light, the new city manager took steps to ensure transparency and accountability, Hunter said. She began looking for an independent expert to audit the police department, as has been mentioned, the Daigle Report. That action was swift and decisive to ensure our community was safe and that our police department was operating as in a way that was appropriate. This audit is and has been available on our website, and the audit discovered deficiencies. The city made sure they were corrected as quickly as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hunter mentioned that funds were approved to hire 21 police officers and create a special victims unit, the commission supporting the Childrens Advocacy Center by funding an additional forensic interviewer to assist child victims of abuse who face the task of testifying in prosecutions, JCPD updating its policies and procedures to protect and support sexual assault victims and more. He also addressed the TBI and FBI investigations into the JCPD, where they found no credible evidence of corruption, bribery, or criminal activity. But while there was no evidence of criminal wrongdoing, there were shortcomings in the handling of some police investigations, Hunter said. But today we can assure you, our community, [that] the police department has improved how it investigates sexual assault cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Adams said he felt frustrated with the mayors response. So many times the city doesnt seem to be addressing the issue head on, Adams said. Rather, they seem to be talking past people. People tell the city their concerns and the city answers a different question entirely. Mayor Hunter told News Channel 11 that the commission will need to process some of the comments that were made. He added that Sean Williams was rightfully convicted and said his heart goes out to everyone affected. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Five hours into a contentious council meeting Thursday, the city of Clearwater voted 3-2 to keep fluoride in its water system. Council member Ryan Cotton introduced removing fluoride from the citys water in February, citing public health concerns. Several citizens spoke against fluoridation and what they characterized as the potential health risks of consuming it. Council members were also flooded with hundreds of emails opposed to fluoridation this week, a large portion of which were from people with connections to the Church of Scientology, according to a Tampa Bay Times review of emails obtained through a public records request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a part of the continued conversation, state Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, who introduced guidance in November recommending against fluoridation, spoke at a Clearwater council meeting Monday. He encouraged council members who supported fluoridation to be open to reports that question the side affects of consuming fluoride. This isnt about fear or fringe science, Cotton said Thursday. Its about facts, ethics and taking responsibility. Localities across the state have begun banning fluoride from their water supplies. On Tuesday, Miami-Dade County commissioners voted to remove it. The mayor there supports fluoridation of drinking water and could veto the legislation, the Miami Herald reported. Florida lawmakers are also considering banning fluoride at the state level, which council members said they would like to wait on, considering that 37% of Clearwaters population receives water from the county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cotton did not agree with that position. Its just very disappointing that were going to defer to the state. What are we doing here? Cotton said. Sixty-three percent of our population would benefit. Council member Michael Mannino, hesitant because of the pending state legislation and the intertwined water system between Clearwater and Pinellas County, voted against the motion. I think its a little premature to make that decision," he said. Health experts have argued against information the state surgeon general has used to support his stance. Studies hes cited regarding harm to childrens IQs were based on exposures to quantities of fluoride that were higher than the national drinking water standard, which is 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter of water, they say. Clearwater currently has a level of 0.5, according to council members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fluoride naturally occurs in water but water fluoridation enables governments to adjust fluoride to the optimal level for healthy teeth. And removing fluoride, experts say, could increase rates of tooth decay among children and low-income communities. The public health benefit is that a lot of kids in Clearwater dont go to the dentist, Mayor Bruce Rector said. The reason we add it is largely for that part of our population, those kids who do not get dental care at all. ELKINS, W.Va. (WBOY) An Elkins police officer who was recently arrested in Barbour County on a domestic battery charge has since been terminated, city officials announced Thursday. Christian Mayle Probationary Patrolman Christian Mayle was arrested last weekend after he allegedly threatened to kill a woman and slammed her head into the windshield of a vehicle. Mayle was placed on administrative leave immediately after the incident, according to officials, who added that they began the process of his termination afterward. While on leave, Mayle was required to surrender his badge, service weapon and any other department-issued equipment. The city said that because Mayle was terminated with cause, he loses his state certification as a sworn law enforcement officer under West Virginia law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the release, city officials also wished to quell rumors surrounding the incident as the extensive online conversation about this matter has included some inaccurate information. WATCH: Bridgeport City Council votes to remove City Manager There has been a lot of public interest in this matter, and thats completely understandable, said Elkins Mayor Jerry Marco. But people need to understand that this sort of situation comes with a bundle of complex legal protections for police officers under state law. Although we saw a clear need to take decisive action to uphold departmental and community standards concerning this kind of behavior, we also needed to work carefully with our City Attorney and H.R. Director to make sure the correct process was followed so as not to open the city up to legal action. Police Chief Travis Bennett emphasized in the release that when Mayle was hired with the Elkins Police Department in 2024, he had never been fired, investigated or disciplined by another police department. He added that if any of these things had happened to Mayle, it would have made him ineligible for hiring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whatever else is going on, I want the people of Elkins to know they can rely on this department to protect and serve them to the absolute best of our ability, Bennett said. Thats our sworn duty, and we take it very seriously. Mayle was officially charged with misdemeanor domestic battery and posted bond following his arrest. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Apr. 3MITCHELL The city of Mitchell is considering purchasing a series of city blocks north of Hitchcock Park that is home to a mobile home estate. This comes as part of a Mitchell City Council decision to set aside $1 million toward purchasing land for economic development, made at the March 17 regular council meeting. The council will consider ratifying the purchase agreement at the April 7 city council meeting for the properties, which have a total assessed value of $885,726. All mobile homes will be removed and replaced with a mix of parking, housing and apartments, according to Mitchell Mayor Jordan Hanson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who rent on a month-to-month basis will be given notice to vacate the properties after the purchase is finalized. Hanson said the city will honor the eight long-term leases, which are set to expire from April through the end of the calendar year. "Obviously, the tenant's best interest is a top priority. And then we're going to work with the tenants to make sure they're not forced to move quicker than they're comfortable with," Hanson said. There are roughly 35 mobile homes with about 50% occupancy, according to Hanson. There are four mobile homes that are renter-owned and will be removed at the owner's expense when the leases expire. The city will sell or demolish the remaining mobile homes. The proposed city purchase includes the 1200 block of East Hanson Avenue and the southernmost portion of the 1100 and 1200 blocks of East First Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cheryl McManus, 77, has lived in a mobile home on South Foster for the past 25 years. On Thursday afternoon, she told the Mitchell Republic she doesn't know what she's going to do next as she rents month to month and is forced to leave. "Social security is all I have," she said. "I don't want to be out on the street," McManus said. "You'd think they'd give us more time." Courtney Anderson has lived in a mobile home on East First Avenue for the past five years. "I wasn't planning on living in a trailer forever anyway, but it is kind of rough not knowing when (we're moving)," Anderson told the Mitchell Republic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anderson, 32, a single mom of two kids, wanted to know if she should be worried about getting her deposit back if the city was going to tear down the mobile home anyway. "I'm just hoping everybody around here can find somewhere to go, because I know a lot of people here are hurting to begin with," Anderson said. Anderson called the mobile homes "dirt cheap" compared to the $1,100 to $1,500 per month two to three bedroom houses she has seen listings for in Mitchell. Pending purchase, a request for proposal will be sent out to local developers with the goal for the land to develop and not sit idle. Construction is not possible until spring 2026, and developers would have 24 months to complete the housing projects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You're not just going to get free land and sit on it forever," Hanson said. "Just give me your best plan for this area, and then the city council will choose what makes the most sense." A mobile home adds very little to the city's property taxes compared to a house, according to Hanson. "You put one house on there, and you're already doing better than what's currently there," Hanson said. Redeveloping the proposed city purchases into a parking lot, a 24-unit apartment and eight houses will be more ideal for Mitchell's needs, according to Hanson The average age of a first-time home buyer in the United States is 38 years old, according to Hanson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our goal is to attract younger people. Apartments and rentals are really where we should focus if we want to keep people from Dakota Wesleyan University and Mitchell Technical College," Hanson said. The city does not want to be a landlord or a developer, according to Hanson. Up for purchase is also two lots on the north side of the 1200 block of East First Avenue, which Hanson said would be ideal for Habitat for Humanity. "We are going to donate those in the name and honor of the previous owners," Hanson said. The city is purchasing the property from the estate of the Elaine M. Joramo Trust. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hanson proposes that the 1100 block of East First Avenue be turned into a parking lot to join with the city-owned parking lot across from the Aquatic Center. "I'm not a big fan of parking lots, but we need it for the pool," Hanson said. Hanson cited a safety concern for kids headed to the Aquatic Center from cars parked along East Hanson Street. The parking lot would also aid events at Hitchcock Park, like Arts in the Park. "People have been saying for years that something needs to be done with that trailer park. And after talking with the city council, a majority of them had this as one of their goals to improve this area," Hanson said. The first reading for approving funds for purchase was on March 17, the second reading will be on April 7, and then residents have 20 days to file a petition to refer the purchasing decision to a vote of the citizens. Apr. 4The City of Lodi's human resources division will not be getting an overhaul in the near future as leaders expressed concern that job descriptions were not included in a Wednesday proposal. The Lodi City Council unanimously approved the 2024-2025 mid-year budget, but without changing the human resources manager and information technology manager positions to deputy director titles. In February, the consultant firm Municipal Resource Group proposed the city rebrand the city's human resources division as a department and put a director in charge, rather than a manager, as well as add clerical support and a risk management analyst, or retain the human resources division and change the manager to a deputy director. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A third proposal was to retain the division, and increase its full-time employee roster to include an senior analyst and administrative clerk and change the manager to a deputy director. Wednesday's staff report proposed eliminating the existing human resources manager whose salary is $223,950 and adding a deputy director at a cost of $241,810. In addition, staff proposed eliminating the information technology manager whose salary was 213,835 and adding a deputy director at a cost of $229,300. Vice mayor Ramon Yepez and councilman Mikey Hothi questioned the need for changing the titles, and both said they would not be voting for the proposals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yepez said he would vote no on any proposal that did not include job descriptions. "The new positions will be doing essentially the same job," city manager Scott Carney said. "But we're doing a name change because we think it will be good marketing to be able to attract talent." Hothi said he wanted to speak with the city's labor groups before voting on personnel changes. "I'm happy to look at some of the other options on the table and hear from my colleagues," he said. "But I don't feel comfortable voting on personnel title changes until I know what the impact is on our rank-and-file employees." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the decline to approve the two positions, Hothi and Yepez agreed to adding seven new positions to city hall, including a budget analyst at $200,310 and a Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services program coordinator at $110,730. Also approved were two customer service representatives in the Finance Department at $175,280 each, and two associate planners in the Community Development Department at $262,250 each. The city's general fund is now projected to be about $90 million, and is due to a $6.42 million increase in carryover funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, and an additional $5,000 donation from the Lodi Fire Foundation. Revenues are estimated to be about $90 million, an increase of $2.53 million due to an income increase not included in the original budget and an increase in property tax revenue, as well as a one-time true-up of the lease agreement for the 215 W. Elm St. building with the Judicial Council of California, staff said. Expenses are anticipated to be about $92.8 million, and are $1.15 million higher than first projected last summer. The council will adopt the 2025-2026 budget in June. KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Clay County Sheriffs Office on Friday released its 2024 annual report, which shows significant increases in impaired-driving crashes, thefts, child abuse and domestic incidents. Reports of child abuse increased by 450% from 2023 to 2024, with 11 reported cases of child abuse in 2024 compared to two in 2023. Family devastated after expectant mother and fiance shot to death The sheriffs office also responded to 58 reports of domestic violence in 2024 compared to 13 in 2023. Thats a 346% increase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of thefts jumped from 56 in 2023 to 78 in 2024an increase of nearly 40%. The number of cars stolen in Clay County also increased by 40%, with 35 cars reported stolen in 2024 compared to 25 in 2023. DWI crashes increased by 69%, with 22 impaired-driving crashes in 2024 compared to 13 in 2023. However, the sheriffs office reported a 15.5% decrease in DWI arrests. The number of overall crashes jumped 8% 299 crashes in 2024 versus 276 in 2023. According to the report, 23 sex offenders failed to register in 2024. The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) responded to only 21 mental health crises in 2024; in 2023, the CIT responded to 41 mental health crises. That means there was a nearly 50% decrease in crisis interventions in 2024. Violence on the rise at Clay County detention centers The 2024 annual report also revealed a rise in violence at county detention centers, impacting inmates and staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of inmates booked in Clay County jumped from 4,360 in 2023 to 5,144 in 2024an 18% increase. However, assaults on staff increased by 43%, with 53 staff members assaulted in 2024. Inmate-on-inmate assaults also increased by a whopping 181%, according to the report. You can view the countys 2024 annual report here. You can find the 2023 annual report here. If youre having suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, call or text 988 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. Veterans can press 1 after dialing 988 to connect directly to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline. For texts, veterans should continue to text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas City residents can find local mental health resources here. If you are a victim of domestic violence, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. Missouri residents can find local shelters and domestic violence resources on the Kansas City Missouri Police Departments website. Kansas and Missouri residents can find additional resources here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. The clock is ticking for TikTok, with the popular video app facing a ban on Saturday unless its parent company, Beijing-based ByteDance, strikes a last-minute deal to remain active in the U.S. By midday Friday, no deal has materialized. It has been a long and winding road to this point. TikTok was initially set to be banned from the U.S. on Jan. 19, after President Joe Biden signed a law last year requiring ByteDance to sell TikToks American operation; TikTok has boasted it has 170 million U.S. users. The chief concern lawmakers had was that TikTok could act as a stealth spyware app for Chinas communist government, as ByteDance is required by Chinese law to hand over any user data the government asks for. President Trump, on his first day back in the White House in January, signed a 75-day extension that gave ByteDance more time to reach a deal; the president had said he would like to save TikTok, in part, because it helped him reach younger voters during the 2024 election. The belief Trump would spearhead a deal had his fans and TikTok creators partying late into the night on the eve of his inauguration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March, President Trump said the U.S. government was talking to four bidders about buying TikTok, without naming specific companies or investors. The Information reported on March 13 that Oracle had taken the lead in acquiring TikToks U.S. operation. And complicating matters has been the Chinese governments adamant stance it will not approve any TikTok sale. More potential buyers have come forward this week, including Amazon, which made a late bid to acquire the entire app, not just TikToks U.S. operation. It is unclear how much Amazon bid. A fair price just to acquire TikToks American wing, Wedbush Securities Managing Director Dan Ives told TheWrap, would be a record-setting $300 billion. President Trump has said he would like the United States to have a 50% ownership position in any TikTok deal, saying it can be a joint venture. Whether that means the U.S. government will have a slice of TikTok, or just an American business, remains to be seen. The president on Thursday suggested Chinas government could get a break on his new tariff plan if it approves a TikTok deal. And despite the security concerns, only 32% of Americans have said they are in favor of a ban, according to a Pew Research survey last fall. Many users have said they simply do not care whether the Chinese government can access their phones, with one TikTok creator telling TheWrap You can spy on me, I dont care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heading into Friday, TikTok had been operating like it will be around for a while in the States, with the company hiring former Warner Bros. Discovery comms boss Nathaniel Brown as its Global Head of Corporate Communication last week. And TikTok has been running ads on Fox News and YouTube, among other spots, highlighting small business owners who use the app to reach customers. The focus now is on whether a deadline-eve deal is reached to keep those users on TikTok. The post Clock Ticks on TikTok Deal as Ban Deadline Looms appeared first on TheWrap. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, April 4. "We consider the European Union as a prospective partner on key climate agenda issues," said President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, during the Samarkand Climate Forum in Uzbekistan, Trend reports. "The foundation of our cooperation lies in our shared commitment to vital international conventions, treaties, and agreements, primarily the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement," he added. Berdimuhamedov noted that methane emission mitigation and flaring optimization are pivotal to global decarbonization strategies, particularly within the upstream oil and gas domain. "An essential issue is decarbonization and the reduction of methane emissions. Turkmenistan has recently made significant practical strides in this area. In 2023, we established a commission to reduce methane emissions. In December of that year, Turkmenistan officially joined the Global Methane Pledge. The government also adopted a roadmap for Turkmenistans international cooperation with foreign countries and international organizations to reduce methane emissions into the atmosphere. As a result, by the end of 2024, methane emissions in Turkmenistan had been reduced by 11 percent, surpassing the planned target," the president stated. Berdimuhamedov pointed out that a key piece of the puzzle in cooperation is the roll-out of environmental initiatives in Turkmenistan, which carry weight both regionally and on the world stage. These include the establishment of a regional climate technology center and the development of a program for transitioning to a circular economy. We rely on the EUs support in the implementation of these initiatives. The EUs priorities for partnership include a green transition in energy, industry, transportation, and other key sectors related to production and essential services. We invite the European Union to engage in substantive and long-term cooperation, proposing the intensification of dialogue on green issues, he emphasized. "Speaking of pressing issues, I would like to particularly highlight the matter of water management. This is of critical importance for our region. Here, technological and methodological support from the European Union could positively influence the resolution of existing challenges. Turkmenistans stance on water policy in the region is well-known. These issues should be addressed based on three key principles: compliance with international law, mutual respect for interests, and the involvement of international organizations, primarily the United Nations," concluded Berdimuhamedov. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) A large carbon dioxide CO2 leak from a 35,000-pound storage tank at Bakers Gas and Welding in Blackman Township just outside of Jackson caused roads to shut down early Friday morning. (Blackman-Leoni Department of Public Safety) (Blackman-Leoni Department of Public Safety) The Blackman Leoni Township Department of Safety and the Jackson County Hazmat team responded to the incident shortly after 7:30 a.m. Investigators say when first responders arrived at the scene, they could see large CO2 plumes approaching Cooper Street, Parnell Road, and N Elm Ave, which caused temporary road closures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Car crashes into East Lansing credit union; suspect in custody The National Library of Medicine states that carbon dioxide is a colorless and odorless gas at atmospheric pressure. Exposure to CO2 can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and blurred vision. For protective measures, The Michigan Department of Corrections moved all inmates inside to secure areas. First responders worked together to activate emergency shutoff valves on the tank, stopping the leak. Around 8:20 a.m. all the roads reopened after the CO2 had dissipated. Officials say no one was injured along and connected the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has stated during a joint press conference with his UK counterpart David Lammy that the coalition of the willing, which supports Ukraine, is preparing options to monitor a ceasefire but is currently demanding a clear response from Moscow to the proposal even if it is a rejection. Source: European Pravda Quote: "Russia owes an answer to the United States. [...] It has to be yes. It has to be no. It has to be a quick answer." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The French foreign minister expressed confidence that Russia would not agree to the ceasefire, stating that Ukrainians want peace, while Putin thinks differently. Barrot believes that Putin is proving this with strikes on energy infrastructure and by announcing last week the conscription of 160,000 soldiers the largest call-up in the past 14 years. He added that Vladimir Putin clearly shows no intention of agreeing to a ceasefire or negotiations. Barrot also stressed that Ukraine has made a "major concession" by agreeing to the US proposal for an unconditional ceasefire, while Russia is violating the arrangement by "continuing its strikes on energy infrastructure, continuing its war crimes", and has yet to give a final answer on its readiness for a ceasefire. He confirmed that military leaders from several countries in the coalition of the willing would arrive in Ukraine on Friday 4 April to discuss security guarantees. "This means building a strong Ukrainian army that is going to be the first layer of any guaranteed peace in a lasting sense. [] This is the reason why our army chiefs will be in Kyiv today," Barrot said. He also said that France and the UK remain in contact with the US, "putting together scenarios for the monitoring of a ceasefire". Background: NATO has previously assessed the balance of power on the battlefield and whether Russia has a chance of a breakthrough. NATO also believes Russia is stockpiling missiles for a new strike on Ukraine. Meanwhile, Putins envoy Kirill Dmitriev during a visit to the US has falsely accused Ukraine of violating the ceasefire. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Authorities in the Philippines made a disheartening discovery during a routine stop that will result in charges being filed. What's happening? As detailed by Minda News, four Indonesian nationals are facing wildlife smuggling and illegal entry charges after a patrolling Philippine Coast Guard intercepted them in the seas off Balut Island as they were attempting to illegally transport two critically endangered bird species. Lawyer Felix Alicer, regional executive director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-12, told Minda News that the seized birds were confirmed to be a yellow-crested cockatoo and a white cockatoo, both of which are endangered under the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. They are also considered protected species under Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The birds were found contained inside individual thermoses, an apparent attempt to conceal and smuggle them," Alicer said in a statement, per Minda News. Under the RA 9147, wildlife smuggling carries a sentence of up to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to P1 million ($17,358.11). Why is this important? Wildlife trafficking is a growing issue in various parts of the world, as individuals often boldly attempt to transport endangered species or their parts through illegal methods for financial gain. Removing these creatures from their natural habitats can carry serious consequences, as ecosystems can be disrupted when invasive species are introduced to a new area and push out natives by outcompeting them for resources. The two birds that the Indonesian nationals were attempting to smuggle represent a small sample of how these schemes can go down. For example, a Massachusetts man was accused of smuggling over 100 parts from endangered and protected animals. In another case, six Indian nationals were arrested in Bangkok after they tried to smuggle 87 exotic animals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These instances highlight just how far these smugglers will go in their attempts to traffic a diverse range of species. What's being done about this? Alicer pleaded for the public to do their part by reporting any suspicious activities regarding illegal wildlife smuggling or unlawful entry into the Philippines. Per Minda News, public disclosures helped PCG and Maritime personnel intercept illegal shipments of various exotic animals from Indonesia that were reportedly being sent to Metro Manila and other areas. The creatures seized included endangered species such as cockatoos, echidnas and wallabies. "This operation highlights the Philippine government's intensified efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and enforce environmental and immigration laws," Alicer said. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. You can do your part by supporting and getting involved with conservation efforts dedicated to protecting the planet's biodiversity. Being vigilant against suspicious activities can help combat wildlife trafficking and create a safer future for all animals. 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. WASHINGTON (AP) A crackdown on foreign students is alarming college leaders, who say the Trump administration is using new tactics and vague justifications to push some students out of the country. College officials worry the new approach will keep foreigners from wanting to study in the U.S. Students stripped of their entry visas are receiving orders from the Department of Homeland Security to leave the country immediately a break from past practice that often permitted them to stay and complete their studies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some students have been targeted over pro-Palestinian activism or criminal infractions or even traffic violations. Others have been left wondering how they ran afoul of the government. At Minnesota State University in Mankato, President Edward Inch told the campus Wednesday that visas had been revoked for five international students for unclear reasons. He said school officials learned about the revocations when they ran a status check in a database of international students after the detention of a Turkish student at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. The State Department said the detention was related to a drunken driving conviction. These are troubling times, and this situation is unlike any we have navigated before, Inch wrote in a letter to campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump campaigned on a promise to deport foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian protests, and federal agents started by detaining Columbia graduate student Mahmoud Khalil, a green-card-holder and Palestinian activist who was prominent in protests at Columbia last year. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week students are being targeted for involvement in protests along with others tied to potential criminal activity. In the past two weeks, the government apparently has widened its crackdown. Officials from colleges around the country have discovered international students have had their entry visas revoked and, in many cases, their legal residency status terminated by authorities without notice including students at Arizona State, Cornell, North Carolina State, the University of Oregon, the University of Texas and the University of Colorado. Some of the students are working to leave the country on their own, but students at Tufts and the University of Alabama have been detained by immigration authorities in the Tufts case, even before the university knew the student's legal status had changed. Feds bypass colleges to move against students Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this new wave of enforcement, school officials say the federal government is quietly deleting foreigners' student records instead of going through colleges, as was done in the past. Students are being ordered to leave the country with a suddenness that universities have rarely seen, said Miriam Feldblum, president and CEO of the Presidents Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration. In the past, when international students have had entry visas revoked, they generally have been allowed to keep legal residency status. They could stay in the country to study, but would need to renew their visa if they left the U.S. and wanted to return. Now, increasing numbers of students are having their legal status terminated, exposing them to the risk of being arrested. None of this is regular practice, Feldblum said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At North Carolina State University, two students from Saudi Arabia left the U.S. after learning their legal status as students was terminated, the university said. N.C. State said it will work with the students to complete their semester from outside the country. Philip Vasto, who lived with one of the students, said his roommate, in graduate school for engineering management, was apolitical and did not attend protests against the war in Gaza. When the government told his roommate his student status had been terminated, it did not give a reason, Vasto said. Since returning to Saudi Arabia, Vasto said his former roommate's top concern is getting into another university. Hes made his peace with it," he said. "He doesnt want to allow it to steal his peace any further. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Database checks turn up students in jeopardy At the University of Texas at Austin, staff checking a federal database discovered two people on student visas had their permission to be in the U.S. terminated, a person familiar with the situation said. The person declined to be identified for fear of retaliation. One of the people, from India, had their legal status terminated April 3. The federal system indicated the person had been identified in a criminal records check and/or has had their visa revoked. The other person, from Lebanon, had their legal status terminated March 28 due to a criminal records check, according to the federal database. Both people were graduates remaining in the U.S. on student visas, using an option allowing people to gain professional experience after completing coursework. Both were employed full time and apparently had not violated requirements for pursuing work experience, the person familiar with the situation said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some students have had visas revoked by the State Department under an obscure law barring noncitizens whose presence could have serious adverse foreign policy consequences. Trump invoked the law in a January order demanding action against campus antisemitism. But some students targeted in recent weeks have had no clear link to political activism. Some have been ordered to leave over misdemeanor crimes or traffic infractions, Feldblum said. In some cases, students were targeted for infractions that had been previously reported to the government. Some of the alleged infractions would not have drawn scrutiny in the past and will likely be a test of students' First Amendment rights as cases work their way through court, said Michelle Mittelstadt, director of public affairs at the Migration Policy Institute. In some ways, what the administration is doing is really retroactive," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Association of Public and Land-grant Universities is requesting a meeting with the State Department over the issue. Its unclear whether more visas are being revoked than usual, but officials fear a chilling effect on international exchange. Many of the associations members have recently seen at least one student have their visa revoked, said Bernie Burrola, a vice president at the group. With little information from the government, colleges have been interviewing students or searching social media for a connection to political activism. The universities cant seem to find anything that seems to be related to Gaza or social media posts or protests, Burrola said. Some of these are sponsored students by foreign governments, where they specifically are very hesitant to get involved in protests. Theres no clear thread indicating which students are being targeted, but some have been from the Middle East and China, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At Texas A&M, officials who looked into why three students had their status terminated said they had long-resolved offenses on their records, including one with a speeding ticket. America's universities have long been seen as a top destination for the world's brightest minds and they've brought important tuition revenue and research breakthroughs to U.S. colleges. But international students also have other options, said Fanta Aw, CEO of NAFSA, an association of international educators. We should not take for granted that thats just the way things are and will always be, she said. ___ Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. ___ Associated Press writers Steve Karnowski in St. Paul, Minnesota, and Angeliki Kastanis in Los Angeles contributed to this report. NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) The official start of hurricane season is less than 60 days away. The A-named storm will be here before you know it! (Spoiler alert: its Andrea.) Colorado State University released its annual forecast for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season Thursday morning. These Atlantic hurricane names have been retired Like last year, their meteorologists anticipate an active season with 17 named storms. Of those 17 named storms, CSU predicts that nine will become hurricanes, with four of them becoming major hurricanes with winds over 111 miles per hour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, why another potentially above-average season? One reason is the UNLIKELYHOOD of El Nino. According to CSUs senior research scientist, Phil Klotzbach, El Nino usually decreases Atlantic hurricane activity due to stronger wind shear. Wind shear is a change in wind speed and direction at different levels of the atmosphere. When there is wind shear, it hinders storm development. Lack of El Nino typically results in busier hurricane seasons. Another reason is sea surface temperatures. The Caribbean and subtropical Eastern Atlantic waters are warmer than normal, contributing to previously active seasons. Seasonal hurricane forecasts are partially based on climatology. Forecasters assess the ENSO (El Nino Southern Oscillation) conditions from June to November. Then, they add other factors like sea surface temperatures and wind shear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What you do before and during a tornado could save your life For example, scientists can look back at a previous year when ENSO conditions were neutral AND sea surface temperatures were above average and predict whether it will be a slow, average, or active season. Phil Klotzbach posted on X, writing that the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season forecast is based on six analogsthe years 1996, 1999, 2006, 2008, and 2017. These analogs were selected based on a second hurricane season following El Nino and somewhat above-normal sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic from August to October. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Actor and comedian Russell Brand has been charged with rape and sexual assault in the U.K., stemming from incidents from 1999 to 2005 involving four women, Londons Metropolitan Police said on Friday. Brand was charged with one count of rape, one count of indecent assault, one count of oral rape and two counts of sexual assault, according to the Met Police. He is due to appear in the Westminster Magistrates Court for a hearing on May 2. Jaswant Narwal of the Crown Prosecution Service said in a statement that police had launched a probe following a 2023 investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4 into four womens sexual assault accusations against Brand from 2006 to 2013. Months after the documentary aired, Channel 4 said it received two new worrying allegations against Brand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brands representative did not immediately respond to MSNBCs request for comment on the charges. The Forgetting Sarah Marshall actor, who has made a turn to wellness influencing and Christianity in recent years, has long denied allegations of sexual assault. Ahead of the 2023 investigative documentary, he said in a YouTube video that the media had launched a litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks against him that included some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute. Brand said he was very, very promiscuous in the past but that his relationships were absolutely always consensual. This is a developing story. Check back for updates. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the US is going to bring back chip manufacturing from Taiwan. President Donald Trump's latest round of reciprocal tariffs do not apply to semiconductors. But Lutnick said Trump is "going to deeply study those" and bring production back to the US. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said on Thursday that the US intends to take chip manufacturing from Taiwan. Lutnick said in an interview on CNBC's "Squawk Box" that while President Donald Trump's latest round of tariffs didn't apply to semiconductors, Trump is still looking at how the US can regain its foothold in chip making. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Donald Trump's going to deeply study those. And those are going to come later on how to reshore from Taiwan all that semiconductor manufacturing," Lutnick said. "We have to protect ourselves at some point. America has to be able to protect itself." Lutnick also questioned why the US's electronics are "primarily built in Taiwan." "It used to be built here. Our policies let Taiwan take it all," Lutnick said. "We all hold our iPhones, which we love. Why do they have to be made in Taiwan and China? Why can't those be made with robotics in America? And you know what Donald Trump has said? They're going to be made in America," he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on all countries with tariffs on US goods. Trump said the tariffs will start at a baseline rate of 10% and affect 185 countries. Taiwan was hit with a reciprocal tariff of 32%. "April 2, 2025, will forever be remembered as the day American industry was reborn, the day America's destiny was reclaimed, and the day that we began to make America wealthy again," Trump said in his announcement. While on the campaign trail, Trump said Taiwan had grown wealthy by taking away the US's chip manufacturing business. Taiwan produces 92% of the world's most advanced microchips, per the US-based Semiconductor Industry Association. "I mean, how stupid are we? They took all of our chip business. They're immensely wealthy." Trump told Bloomberg Businessweek in an interview published in July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They took almost 100% of our chip industry, I give them credit. That's because stupid people were running the country. We should have never let that happen," Trump added. On Thursday, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te wrote in a Facebook post that Trump's reciprocal tariffs were "unreasonable" and did not reflect the "highly complementary and substantive trading relationship between Taiwan and the US." Lai said his government will continue to negotiate with the Trump administration. The US has long been trying to reduce its dependence on Taiwan for chip manufacturing. In 2022, President Joe Biden signed the CHIPS Act into law. The bipartisan bill was meant to bolster US chipmaking by channeling billions of dollars in federal funding to the chip industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November, the Biden administration said it had awarded up to $6.6 billion in funding to TSMC to build three chip factories in Phoenix, Arizona. However, experts told Business Insider that while such initiatives would help to bolster chip making in the US, TSMC will probably continue to make its most advanced chips in Taiwan. "It's very unlikely that the Taiwanese government would allow TSMC to build its most advanced fabs in the US without a few years' lag," said Chris Miller, the author of "Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology." "This is Taiwan's most valuable strategic capability. Without it, extracting a US security guarantee or support from the Trump administration goes from hard to impossible," Miller added. Representatives for Lutnick at the Commerce Department did not respond to a request for comment from BI. Read the original article on Business Insider Guns are shown at Casos Gun-A-Rama in Jersey City, New Jersey, which has been open since 1967. (Photo by Aristide Economopoulos/NJ Monitor) With four proposals to amend Maines laws regarding the concealed carry of a firearm, the Legislatures Judiciary Committee is suggesting to keep current practice in place. I think we do have a good balance right now in our constitutional carry law, said Rep. Adam Lee (D-Auburn), who voted against the proposed changes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The committee held a work session Thursday for a slate of gun legislation. While some measures were tabled for further discussion, the four bills about where someone can have a firearm, when they need to inform law enforcement and age requirements to carry were voted down by a majority of the committee. Some of the bills received bipartisan votes, and others were along party lines. The committee overwhelmingly voted 11-2 not to change the law that requires someone carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit to inform law enforcement immediately during routine traffic stops, arrests or detainment. LD 1049 originally sought to repeal that requirement, but its sponsor, Rep. Jennifer Poirier (R-Skowhegan), amended her proposal during the work session so that an officer would have to ask first. However, multiple committee members brought up other constitutional concerns, including potential violations of the Fourth and Fifth Amendments, which protect individuals against unlawful search and seizure and from self incrimination. Others said they couldnt support the bill because the law was written to protect law enforcement, and some officers expressed concern about changes to the law. There was also bipartisan support to maintain current law that says an employer cant prohibit an employee from storing a firearm in their vehicle if the employee has a valid permit to carry a concealed firearm, so long as the vehicle is locked and the firearm is stored out of sight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Rep. Alicia Collins (R-Sidney) sought with LD 998 to remove the requirement that an employee have a valid concealed carry permit, the committee weighed the competing interests of property rights and the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. Ultimately, the committee voted 10-3 against the proposal, with many members agreeing current law already did a sufficient job at balancing employer versus employee rights. While the majority also voted against legislation to update statutory language about carrying in state parks and lowering the age that someone can carry without a permit to 18, those proposals received party line votes. Sen. David Haggan (R-Penobscot) said during the public hearing that he introduced LD 829 to clean up confusion in existing law by making it clear that someone can carry a concealed firearm in a state park, so long as they are not otherwise prohibited from possessing one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Committee co-chair Rep. Amy Kuhn (D-Falmouth) said she wasnt going to support the proposal because the Legislature had previously considered that statute and didnt see any reason why it should be changed. However, Rep. Rachel Henderson (R-Rumford) said she backed the legislation because of what she saw as a need for protection against other people as well as animals in remote areas of state parks. Democrats similarly didnt want to reduce the age limit that a person can carry without a permit, while Republicans were in favor of doing so. The committee voted 7-5 to reject LD 424. Current law requires someone who is 18 to 20 years old and without military training to have a permit to carry concealed. Someone can carry without a permit starting at age 21. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Dani OHalloran (D-Brewer) pointed out that 18-year-olds are often still in high school, so she couldnt justify taking away the training requirements for someone at that age to be able to carry a firearm. Henderson suggested an amendment, which her Republican colleagues supported, to add language clarifying that someone could carry concealed without a permit starting at age 18, except if they are still in high school. While Haggan said society has already decided someone is an adult at 18 and has given them other rights such as voting, Kuhn argued that people 18 to 20 can also be more impulsive and carrying a firearm can come with deadly consequences. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Flash U.S. President Donald Trump's inner circle has advised him not to call Russian President Vladimir Putin until Moscow agrees to a full ceasefire with Ukraine, NBC News reported Thursday. The report, citing two administration officials, said no call had been scheduled as of Thursday afternoon between Trump and Putin, while the two officials cautioned that Trump could decide he wants to talk to Putin suddenly. The officials said Trump has been advised that a phone call was not a good idea unless Putin has agreed to a full ceasefire in the conflict with Ukraine, according to NBC News. Trump told NBC News on Sunday that he planned to talk to Putin this week. During their phone conversation on March 18, Trump and Putin agreed that peace in Ukraine "will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire." BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Today we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with colleagues from Azerbaijan, Turkiye, and Georgia for a new electricity corridor, bringing electricity from the Caspian region to the southeastern part of Europe, Bulgaria, and our neighbors, Romania, Hungary, Zhecho Stankov, Bulgarias Minister of Energy, told Trend on the sidelines of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Councils meeting in Baku. After having a long-term contract of delivering gas from Azerbaijan Gas Supply Company to Bulgaria, now to get the opportunity to extend this experience also in the electricity sector. That means that in the long-term perspective, we're going to deliver not only cheap gas from the Azerbaijan Gas Supply Company to Bulgaria, but also cheap electricity from wind and solar from this region to the southeastern part of Europe, he said. Talking about the Black Sea Cable project, Stankov noted that it is an additional project to what was signed today. That's something which Bulgaria, at the moment, shows interest to join. At the moment, the intergovernmental agreement is signed by Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary. During a meeting a month ago in Hungary, we showed our interest to join it. And we see also a big perspective there. Of course, the environmental impact assessment is very important related to the European legislation. Bulgaria, Greece, and Romania sent a special letter to Commissioner Jorgensen because of the high energy prices in our region, as we're not well connected to the mid and west part of Europe. That's why additional quantities of electricity will affect very positively our consumers, the minister said. NEW YORK (PIX 11) Friends, family, and community members renewed their calls for justice after 19-year-old Win Rozario was fatally shot by NYPD officers last March while suffering a mental health crisis. Candles and flowers were laid by a picture of the late teen as loved ones gathered for a vigil Thursday. Utsho Rozario is still coping with his brothers death. More Local News If any of us had done what they had done, we would have been arrested, he said. No more double standards. We demand removal of all cops from mental health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to police, Rozario was suffering a mental health crisis on March 27 and called 911 on himself. Officers Matthew Cianfrocco and Salvatore Alongi responded to the familys home in Ozone Park. Body cam footage showed the minutes leading up to the shooting. Rozario could be seen in the footage walking to a kitchen drawer and pulling out a pair of scissors. He ran toward the officers before his mother, Notan Eva Costa, pulled him back. Both officers deployed their stun guns on Rozario while his mom continued holding him. She could be seen in the video taking the scissors away from him before Rozario grabbed the scissors again and lunged at the officers. A gunshot rang out, and the struggle continued, with officers telling Costa to move out of the way before Rozario was shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loved ones are calling on the NYPD to fire the officers and for Attorney General Letitia James Office to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law. More Local News As the vigil came to an end, they marched to the 102nd Precinct, holding signs, chanting, and demanding accountability. New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams stood with the family at the vigil. Its been a year, Williams said. No one has been disciplined. Nothing has changed about how the NYPD answers these calls. That makes no sense at all. At some point we have to be tired enough, care about these lives enough, to do something different. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NYPD told PIX 11 that the incident remains under investigation by the departments Force Investigation Division, and the attorney generals office also confirmed that its probe remains ongoing. A spokesperson for the family said they are actively pursuing a lawsuit against the city and stressed that their main priority is getting justice for Rozarios death. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) The death of Walton County deputy William May is being felt by communities across the Panhandle. May was killed in the line of duty following a shooting on Wednesday. Hundreds came out in support of the fallen hero as his body returned home on Thursday evening. Law enforcement from various local agencies joined the honor procession. Walton County deputy killed in line of duty Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of patrol cars, ambulances, and a helicopter, traveled from Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola to Clary-Glenn Funeral home in DeFuniak Springs. North Walton County is a small community, and we pretty much know each other and Mossy Head is not where you expect something like this to happen. Its just hard to believe that something like this could happen over in our community, Walton County Commissioner and friend of May Danny Glidewell said. Its a tragedy that hasnt struck Walton County in over 70 years. Neighboring communities are now rallying in support. When something tragic happens, people want to show their appreciation. People want to show that they, you know, we understand what you did. We understand the sacrifice that this hero just provided to their community. And I think thats really the key to say, we understand what you did, we acknowledge what you did, and were going to take it from here, Escambia Sheriff Chip Simmons said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say the turnout from the community reflected who May was. I think its a testament to who he was, who his family is, and how much our community appreciates law enforcement. This is a community that backs its law enforcement and theres just no extent that people go to help their law enforcement, Glidewell said. Deputy Mays patrol car is parked in front of the sheriffs office as a memorial for the community to pay their respects. WCSO invites public to join procession for Deputy William May May leaves behind his wife and two kids. The suspect is 58-year-old Timothy Jarvinen of DeFuniak Springs. He died on the scene Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Walton community was joined by sheriffs from Santa Rosa, Escambia, and Okaloosa County. Police personnel from Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, and DeFuniak Springs were there as well. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Local activists and elected officials are calling on UPMC to reinstate gender-affirming care for all transgender patients. Several patients have reported that the hospital system is refusing to provide the care. President Trumps executive order banning care for patients under 19 is going through legal challenges. PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Federal judge pauses President Trumps order restricting gender-affirming care for trans youth Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advocates say UPMC is making the change pre-emptively. Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey says massive local institutions like UPMC have enormous power to protect transgender rights. Every community is coming under attack. Dont judge. Stand up and tell UPMC to do the right thing by making sure that they take care of all communities, Gainey said. Gainey joined TransYOUnitng and multiple state and community officials in sending a letter to UPMC demanding that they: Immediately reinstate full gender-affirming care for new and existing patients at CHP in Pittsburgh, given the current circumstances Enthusiastically support and fund alternative providers to ensure trans youth receive the medically-necessary healthcare they need to survive, should a court order, law, or regulation specifically mandate UPMC cease direct gender-affirming care for young trans people Establish an advisory committee for UPMCs administration on gender-affirming care, comprised of transgender youth and community leaders, and healthcare professionals, to meet before May 1, 2025 Not retaliate against LGBTQ+ communities and continue funding for local LGBTQ+ programs and LGBTQ+ healthcare Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Letter to UPMC From Electeds and Community Leaders_ Stop Doing Trump's Bidding and Protect Affirming Care f... by WPXI Staff on Scribd UPMC issued a statement about their gender-affirming care, saying: UPMC is fully committed to providing exceptional care for all our patients. We continue to monitor and comply with directives coming from the federal government that affect the ability of our clinicians to provide specific types of care for patients under the age of 19. We continue to offer necessary behavioral health and other support within the bounds of the law. We empathize with the patients and families who are directly affected by these ongoing changes. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW Its "liberation day," the day Donald Trump has set to announce his reciprocal tariff plan on countries that levy duties on our exports and prolific import taxes on goods the Trump administration deems crucial to national security. Businesses are scrambling. Since Softbanks early $100 billion investment announcement on Dec. 16, numerous other companies have followed, totaling $2.8 trillion in business projects and pledges in America. The most recent announcement was from Hyundai - on March 24, the Japanese automaker pledged $21 billion to the United States, including a $5.8 billion steel plant in Louisiana. While these ventures are encouraging, its uncertain whether these companies are truly interested in bringing back Americas manufacturing base or simply eager to stroke the administrations ego and maintain the status quo: cheap foreign labor to maximize profit margins. These investments may be a form of lobbying to defend against Trumps tariff blitz - similar to the millions of dollars tech companies and their CEOs donated to the presidents inauguration fund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tariffs give the federal government significant leverage in economic proceedings, and a firms goal is to protect its bottom line by delaying or exempting goods that will be affected by Trumps new global trade order. But are significant investments an effective playbook for transnational organizations? Apple is an interesting case study as it successfully parried several tariffs during Trumps first term. Apple announced a $350 billion "contribution" to the American economy in January 2018. The company promised to create 20,000 jobs, spend $30 billion on new facilities, data centers, and offices, and invest $5 billion in its Advanced Manufacturing Fund. Apple also brought $245 billion in overseas profit back to the U.S. and paid $38 billion in taxes as part of the repatriation. Did Apples contribution translate into new jobs? The short answer is "yes." Apples U.S. workforce grew by about 17,000 from 2018 to 2022. As for its Advanced Manufacturing Fund, Apple awarded $450 million to display glass supplier Corning from 2017 to 2021. Apple also gifted II-VI, an optical technology manufacturer headquartered in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania, $410 million in 2021 to expand its manufacturing capacity. Apple avoided tariffs on its flagship product, the iPhone, for its efforts. In December 2019, Trump halted a 15% levy on China - the initially proposed "List 4B" tariffs would have affected the iPhone, iPad, and MacBook. Apple did not avoid all tariffs from the administration, however. The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) did not grant relief for all of Apples requested components. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not all companies fulfilled their investment promises. General Motors announced spending $1 billion to create or keep 1,500 manufacturing jobs in 2017. Yet, its U.S. workforce shrank during Trumps first term due to layoffs. In May 2019, the USTR denied GMs exemption request for the Chinese-made Buick Envision SUV for national security purposes. Other companies, like Toyota, made investments and used them in a PR battle against the administration. In January 2017, Toyota announced a five-year plan to invest $10 billion and two years later, increased its investment commitment to $13 billion by 2021. When Trump launched an investigation into the national security threat of Chinese car parts in 2018, Toyota nodded at its investments, stating it "operates 10 manufacturing plants in the U.S." and is "an exemplar of Americas manufacturing might." Trump later declared that certain auto imports posed a national security threat in 2019. The company suggested that the presidents actions sent "a message to Toyota that our investments are not welcomed, and the contributions from each of our employees across America are not valued." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The second Trump administration is more bullish on tariffs than it was before. Howard Lutnick, Trumps Secretary of Commerce, called for the restructuring of global trade because we no longer need to aid countries devastated by World War II and the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Lutnick believes the Trump administration will cut the federal deficit through increased tariff revenue. But how does that square with the tariff-fueled spoils system we saw during Trumps first term? And if Trump launches reciprocal tariffs, shouldnt he eventually lower them when our trading partners lower theirs? If this is the case, its unclear how the U.S. would gain enough revenue to reduce the federal deficit and bring back manufacturing jobs. Companies arent waiting to find out. TSMC, Hyundai, Nvidia, and others seem to be imitating Apples campaign to minimize the financial impact of tariffs. These investments may translate into more American jobs, as Apples $350 billion contribution did, but will these companies get the tariff reprieve they crave? Daniel Idfresne is a junior at Syracuse University. Hes a Young Voices Social Mobility Fellow and interned for The Story with Martha MacCallum. He has written for the New York Post, Newsweek, and The Free Press. Follow him at X.com: @danielidfresne America has always been like this: a place of immense contradiction, promise and disappointment, where noble, progressives ideals are embedded in a founding document written by men who purported to believe that all are created equal, even as most claimed the right to treat other human beings as property and to kill and displace the original tenants of the land. We helped defeat fascism in Europe, Americans can rightly claim; we also helped inspire Europes fascists, who looked longingly at the United States reactionary tradition of genocide and racial segregation. Whether the country is good or evil is the wrong debate: like most people, and every other nation on earth, its a bit of both. Progress has always come in uneven fits, with hypocrisies galore killing Nazis while putting Japanese-Americans in concentration camps and a loud chorus of reactionaries claiming that every step toward fulfilling the promise of equal rights is itself part of the march to tyranny, classically liberal rhetoric perverted to defend white dominion over others as the true definition of freedom. It can be a depressing story if you look at the downfall and the kind of backlash and reaction to progressive change, Manisha Sinha, a history professor at the University of Connecticut, said in an interview, but it can also be inspiring to think about all the people who fought against injustices and inequality and ultimately prevailed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sinha merges the depressing and inspiring in her recounting of Reconstruction, when the U.S. emerged from a state of war as a flawed but budding multiracial democracy. Published on the eve of the 2024 election, The Rise and Fall of the Second American Republican: Reconstruction, 1860-1920, is more relevant today than its author would likely prefer. Its not just that the concept of a true democracy for all is under attack, but that those waging the contemporary assault are pointing to this Gilded Age of reaction as their model for everything from tariffs to imperial expansion. It can be utterly frustrating to read Sinhas work and see that, while history does not quite repeat, the contemporary fights over diversity and womens role in society sure seem to echo those waged by the liberals and conservatives of yore. But even in Americas darkest times, when its nobler aspirations were scorned in the name of white supremacy, the takeaway is: the seeds of a better tomorrow are being planted by those who refused to give up on this big, frustrating country, and refused to let the other side claim ownership of its history. We may be in a moment of backlash and reaction right now, but that doesn't mean that there isn't hope in terms of fighting against that, Sinha told Salon. I think American history shows there's always been a contest, even during what one historian called the nadir of American democracy and Black freedom in the late 19th century. The following interview has been edited for length and clarity. Are there any lessons you think from the example of the abolitionists or the suffragists that people trying to resist the current backlash could take inspiration from? Do you think they had tactics that could be useful for activists today? Oh yes, I think there are a lot of sort of legacies and examples that we can invoke and rely on. I really think that sometimes a lot of radical activists do not realize that, in order to achieve their objectives, you have to be able to fight on principle but be pragmatic in building broad coalitions, and that's what the abolitionists did. They were for the immediate abolition of slavery and for Black rights, but they formed alliances with anti-slavery moderates and politicians who didn't want to go beyond the non-expansion of slavery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But eventually, if you look at what happened before the Civil War and during the Civil War, you go from non-expansion of slavery to abolition immediate abolition which was the abolitionist goal, and eventually to Black citizenship, or what was called by W.E.B. Du Bois, abolition democracy, right? So if you think about it in that way, you realize that radical social movements should stand on principle even when they're in the minority, but that political change is possible only when you're willing to ally yourself with people who may not be as radical as you, but who are willing to unite with you against a greater threat. Another example from history would be the Popular Front era in the United States in the 1930s, when people on the left and liberals got together to fight fascism and authoritarianism and were successful in doing that. I think that's something that activists today should learn from and also that, in order to preserve democracy, one should be willing to not just pay the price, but also be willing to evoke ideas that would actually appeal to the broadest group possible. In a way, abolitionists did that by evoking the U.S. Constitution. They fought over the U.S. Constitution: Is it pro-slavery? Is it anti-slavery? But ultimately, they all wanted to uphold the guarantees of the Bill of Rights and civil liberties and uphold things that people could all agree on; something like our constitutional order, the rule of law. And if you think of many of the battles being waged today whether it's immigrant rights or Black rights or voter suppression you could invoke quintessential American values for change. And so I think that's what we should do; I think that's what the abolitionists did; that's what most of the civil rights activists did. You are radical in your belief in inequality, but you are pragmatic in trying to push through political change within our system. Another group that you deal with extensively in the book and some of these groups obviously overlap is the suffragists. Post-Civil War, you discuss how there were certainly what we would call today kind of intersectional feminists, like Lucy Parsons, Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman. But on the other hand, as you well know, there were the likes of Susan B Anthony, and also some people that seem to have been even more genuinely white supremacist, who made the calculation that, you know what, we have principles too but we need to be pragmatic. And the best way to at least get some woman white woman the right to vote is to make an appeal that is specifically towards white people; in other words, selling out everyone who isnt white in the name of pragmatic, moderate progress. Do you see any parallels to that kind of debate that the suffragists had amongst themselves and the debate we see now with Democrats who might say, you know, with immigrant rights, trans rights we don't necessarily oppose them, but the polls for us aren't so great right now, and there are other people that need defending. Do you see a connection between those two different debates? That's a very good counter-example to what I was saying. I think the point of making coalitions of people who are moderates is, in fact, not to sacrifice your principle; to continue to be the radical Vanguard. And the history of the women's suffrage movement in the United States is illustrative of one thing: that is, at least the [Elizabeth Cady] Stanton/Anthony wing, first during Reconstruction, made expedient compromises because they were so angry at being left out of the Reconstruction amendments that they were willing to form expedient alliances with racist Democrats. Stanton is a bit of an elitist; Anthony actually comes from a more reformist, anti-slavery tradition, but she still makes those expedient compromises, which I think costs the suffrage movement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By giving up the intersectional vision of the original abolitionist feminists, it leads to a divide in the movement. You get two competing organizations, and women's suffrage is kind of eclipsed for another 50 years. And so even though the 19th Amendment is modeled after the 15th Amendment that gave Black men the right to vote during Reconstruction that's why I call it the last Reconstruction amendment it was still passed in the shadow of the defeat of Reconstruction. And as the movement, you know, kind of grew in the shadow of the defeat of Reconstruction, they were willing to do more than make just expedient alliances with Southern white women, compromising on their principles by having segregated meetings, by sidelining Black women suffragists. I think that is a problem that they bequeath to American feminism, and it's a real problem. Because when the 19th Amendment is passed, even though it has no racial qualification and it inspired some Black women in the South to attempt to vote, it still excluded them, for the most part, because of Black disenfranchisement in the South. So Black women really don't get the right to vote. As to the Voting Rights Act of 1965, I think, if anything, the history of the suffragist movement shows that you can make alliances with people, but you do not compromise on basic human rights. I think that's something that most Democratic politicians should today understand, because it's easy to demonize and scapegoat a minority that is not liked or not understood by many people, but once you go down that road, it doesn't stop there. And so in this particular case, I would say that sacrifice of principle is something that the abolitionists, for instance, never did. They got into alliances with anti-slavery moderates, but they were like, No, you may be for non-expansion, but we are still for abolition, and that's why they are able to eventually push the non-expansionists towards abolition. But the suffragists, we see something different, and for all the compromises they made, they still didn't win the majority of the South because the South did not like the idea of a constitutional amendment or of even a federal law that would give women the right to vote, and they definitely wanted to exclude Black women. So in the end, they sacrificed principle for paltry or nonexistent gains, because most of the states that did not ratify the 19th Amendment were the southern states. You have said that we are now living through the collapse of the American Third Republic. With the caveat that, as you know as a historian, history does not repeat, but there are echoes: Do you see the dominant, MAGA faction in American politics today as the successor to forces like the Know Nothings, the Confederacy and the Redeemers? Is that the same tradition rearing its head again? Or is this a new chapter in American history? As a historian, I would say that the present and the future will always be informed by the past. And you're right: History does not repeat, but we cannot escape its legacies. Abraham Lincoln said, Fellow citizens, we cannot escape history during the Civil War, and he was right. It's not as if it's the same forces or the same people, but I think in the United States, we do have competing traditions of interracial democracy bequeathed by the abolitionists, by the Civil Rights Movement, by the experiment in interracial democracy in the south during Reconstruction but we also have a traditional reaction against it, whether it was the pro-slavery, anti-democratic traditions of southern slaveholders. They use states' rights to defend slavery and, later on, ex-Confederates use it to defend Jim Crow and disfranchisement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those traditions of reactionary authoritarianism are also with us. Even when you know you had the establishment of the New Deal, and after that civil rights, there were a lot of people who were critiquing that. And some of their criticisms sounded familiar to me, because during Reconstruction, a lot of southern elites critiqued the Reconstruction government for establishing a public school system, which they said was a big burden on taxpayers; they had taxpayers conventions. They were against big government; against what they saw as federal tyranny. So this kind of anti-government ideology, which was also linked with a sort of racist opposition to Black rights that little poisonous brew has been in the United States for a long time and it rears up its head in the opposition to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the rise of modern-day conservatism, which is now kind of devolved into the MAGA movement. I would say, though, that when the January 6 insurrection took place, there were a lot of historians who were saying, this is who we are, and others saying this is not who we are. I didn't agree with either side. I mean, I think this is what we should not be; that we've been there in the past, and we made some changes, and we should realize that this is not the way things ought to be and we should continue to contest those. In terms of MAGA, it seems to me their agenda is quite clear. It's anti-government; Trump the Trump regime and Trump himself seems to really admire the era of the downfall of Reconstruction, the Gilded Age; the age of robber barons, of unregulated, rapacious capitalism and open imperialism, when the United States acquired an overseas American empire after the Spanish-Cuban American war of 1898. This was, of course, all in the administration of William McKinley, whom Trump refers to and admires; he wants the mountain in Alaska to be renamed Mount McKinley. He was a tariff man, but this is the point when the Republican Party completely ceases being the party of Lincoln and anti-slavery and becomes the party of big business. But the fact that the MAGA movement actually admires that period in American history, it seems to me that they're looking at it as a model, as a model when there was no government regulation, no worker safety standards. This is before the Progressive Era, and before the New Deal that made for government regulation of the economy and safe labor conditions, minimum wages and things like that; a recognition of unions. It's also the height of social Darwinism and the pseudoscience of race. It's also the height of Lost Cause mythology when the Confederate monuments are put up. The fact that [Defense Secretary Pete] Hegseth renamed Fort Liberty back to Bragg saying, No, but it's not the Confederate General Bragg but some private corporal we dug up from somewhere else, but we are going back to Bragg" or that Trump says Confederate statues are beautiful and that we shouldn't get rid of them shows to me that they seem to recognize the ideological affinities between their own ideas and those of the past. So it's not the same thing, but it is certainly informed by that sorry history. I wanted to pull a quote from your book that I think is particularly relevant here: A racist thermidor resulted from the unwinding of Reconstruction, which involved not just the subjugation of African Americans and western Indians but also the exclusion of Asian immigrants. The rise of Jim Crow in the South and other internal regimes of racist hierarchy fed into the logic and momentum of US imperialism. These domestic developments were, in fact, the preconditions for the rise of an overseas American empire. I know you have said that when you were working on this book, you did not know at the time how relevant it would be. But particularly with Donald Trump talking about an expansionist agenda not just the Panama Canal or Greenland, but maybe even Canada too and, of course, the Gaza Strip, which might host a Trump hotel I guess I don't need to ask you to spell out the parallels here, but are you surprised that it seems to repeat this history more than history should? As you said, history does not repeat, but this seems to be following a playbook. Yeah, well, I didn't think we'd be back to the age of formal imperialism, right? Trump admires not just McKinley, but he also has, apparently, a portrait of James Polk, who was responsible for the Mexican War and the annexation of large amounts of lands from Mexico. And let's not forget that Abraham Lincoln began his national political career by opposing the Mexican war as a land grab for slavery. So I think what we see today in terms of Trump, I didn't expect that; I could ill imagine, to tell you the truth, that Trump would even entertain these ideas of invading Panama, acquiring Canada and Greenland and other places, even though, of course, Reagan had invaded Grenada. There's a whole history of American invasions and occupations of countries in the Caribbean, in Central America, in Latin America, of intervention; we've had that history, but we've also had, since the Second World War, a formal commitment to the international rules-based order at least we paid lip service to it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is pretty brazen because he is not talking about the informal American empire. He's not talking about interventions; the U.S. government, of course, has intervened in other countries' affairs, and, in fact, overturned, democratically elected governments during the Cold War. He's talking about really old-fashioned, 19th century imperialism wars of aggression and swallowing up smaller countries or less powerful countries. The United States will have a sphere of influence and we will cede Europe to Putin as his sphere of influence and feed perhaps Asia to China. It's a very 19th-century view of the world, and it's the view of the world that led to the First World War between nationalistic, imperialist, militaristic nations and which, of course, led to the rise of fascism and the Second World War. You'd think that we are beyond all that. But the way that they nostalgically invoke that late 19th century period, and the way this global authoritarianism is in sync in terms of not just invading, maybe, other countries and annexing parts of them, which is exactly what Putin is doing in Ukraine, and which Netanyahu wants to do in the Gaza Strip, simply eliminate the people of Gaza, it seems to be at this stage that kind of mindset, that might makes right, is just so [retrograde]. Even when the US intervened [in the past], at least they had the sort of hypocrisy of saying, Well, we are fighting for freedom or democracy, but with Trump, that's not there. It's a very 19th-century, old-fashioned imperialism. It's also a real denigration of anyone considered nonwhite. When Trump, in his first administration, said we should get, you know, immigrants from Denmark, he was evoking the 1924 immigration law, because it moved from Chinese exclusion to exclusion for all peoples, and also seeing southern and eastern Europeans as somehow lesser whites, and preferring northern and western European immigrants. That's the immigration regime he was referring to, and which changed after the Civil Rights Movement. In 1965 they revised that old, very racist immigration law; when people talk about people's IQs or where they're from, or denigrate the countries they come from or their culture and who they are, or characterize an entire ethnicity or group of people as somehow subhuman criminals not worthy of citizenship, that kind of talk really does replicate that era of pseudoscience and that era of social Darwinism that led directly to the rise of fascism, and so I find that talk very troubling. And then that's why I feel it's not just the attack on the administrative state, which, of course, is happening now, and also these billionaires like [Elon] Musk wanting to literally capture the U.S. government and use it for his own private gain those ideas are reminiscent of that time, but I think in a kind of warp speed manner. Because even the robber barons were not that bad; at least they endowed some libraries and foundations and fellowships and had some idea of wanting to pretend to some sort of cultural capital. But here, at this moment, we are in a regime with these billionaires who seem unaccountable to anyone and who think that they have basically bought the government of the United States and can therefore hollow it out from within. Im struck by your reference there to how this kind of post-Reconstruction, gilded, social Darwinist era kind of paved the road for fascism to come later. I wondered if maybe you wanted to weigh in on a somewhat tedious debate over the term fascism. I kind of think it's been settled, but in the past people have taken some issue with that on the basis that it implies that this is an imported, European phenomenon. People would point out that the Nazis were inspired by the racial caste system in the United States and of course, as you well know, we have a long tradition in this country of reaction. So I'm curious what you think of the interaction between U.S. reactionary movements and movements abroad, and just whether you think that the term fascism and the idea that America is informed by reactionary movements abroad is at all inconsistent with your reading of American history. Another good question. As I say in my book, we have our own homegrown authoritarian tradition rising from this period and the establishment of racial apartheid in the South. I haven't really weighed in too much in this debate because, as I say, you know, we don't have to look at fascists in Europe. In fact, fascists in Europe, as you say, look to the Jim Crow laws of the South and the subjugation of Western Indian nations to inspire them and their race laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But I do think that there is a global element. I prefer to use the term authoritarianism to fascism, mainly because you think about fascist and you think of a very particular period in European history. You think of Mussolini; you think of Franco; and you think of Hitler that very particular moment in European history. I think authoritarianism might work better in our times. To me, it is a global authoritarian movement with fascist roots. Clearly, a lot of these right-wing movements, from the AFD in Germany to Marine Le Pens movement in France, have actual fascist roots. The right-wing in Italy, too, actually has ties to the old fascism a direct historical link, just like I think our right, the right today, is really inspired by some of these earlier forces of reaction in US history. But I do think that the fall of Reconstruction and the fall of interracial democracy in the U.S. also had a global significance. It launched the U.S., or at least it made the U.S. join the race for empire. And all the people who were left kept saying that we are no longer a republic. And of course, our republic was founded on the dispossession of indigenous nations, but there was still at least an attempt to uphold republican ideas and ideas of citizenship, which they had to do away with. There were actual decisions that the Supreme Court had to say, well, you know, the people of Puerto Rico and the Philippines, they do not come under U.S. constitutional protection, they do not get the guarantees of national citizenship of the 14th Amendment. Like they had to actually exclude them from ideas of our constitutional republic. I do think that these things are kind of connected. And there are a lot of historians whom I know, who are students of European fascism, [who] see a lot of linkages between the right, the MAGA right in the United States, and fascism. As a U.S. historian, I see many more connections with our own reactionary past. That does not mean that there isn't also a global resonance. There are these global interconnections with the rise of the right-wing today; you can see them encouraging each other, attending each other's meetings and cheering on their particular favorite ideological candidates. I'm not one of those either-or people, but I can make a stronger case that we have our own homegrown traditions of reaction and authoritarianism that we need to take seriously. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. You just talked about the South and its kind of culture of authoritarianism that Lincoln identified. Of course, the Union won the war, and for a very brief moment, there was a military occupation of the South. But as you detail at length in your book, the people who were in the positions to shore up the gains of that progress seemed to blink at every key moment, like when the Southern Democrats and their allies in the Ku Klux Klan were terrorizing Republicans throughout the South. The federal government was well aware of it, but for various reasons, it did not intervene decisively and then, of course, Republicans lost those states, and then Reconstruction came to a close. When you look at that and you see the ebbs and flows and how the periods of progress are punctured by the reaction, and the people on what I would call the right side of history don't seem to have the tenacity to hold on why should I believe that, if this fever breaks, that we will be able to better prevent the future backslide? Is there any reason to think that we'll be better prepared and that we won't just be going through this cycle for the rest of human history? Oh, well, you know, that's a big question. I think there is a moment during the Civil War when the political will is there to enforce Reconstruction in the South, right? There is that brief moment, relatively brief moment, even though it is contested by southern white elites from the get-go. You do have an attempt to even put down political violence with the enforcement acts and the establishment of the Department of Justice in 1870. But the experiment comes apart mainly, not only because of racial terror, but also the United States Supreme Court undoing many of the legal and constitutional gains of Reconstruction and the Republican Party itself changing in character. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You have the liberal Republicans who were arguing that we should not be interfering in the South and government should not interfere in the economy; they were called liberals like classical liberals laissez-faire people we would call conservatives today. So there are a number of things that come together. And they become increasingly sympathetic to southern planters who complain about Black labor, and they seem to adopt their elitist attitudes. But you know, it's not as if that overthrow that lasted for quite a long time was not contested. I mean surviving abolitionists, some abolitionist feminists, African Americans, other sort of labor activists, they continue to contest. Even in the triumph of the worst, which is the age of robber barons and the age of rapacious capitalism and imperialism, even those things were being contested. You did have people forming the anti-imperialist league. You did have somebody like Mark Twain write really perceptively about the hypocrisies of that age. He's the one who coined Gilded Age and he's the one who said, History doesn't repeat, but it rhymes. So you had people, you had Americans fighting against that, albeit they were not winning at that time, but that's how you build momentum for political change. That's why, even right now, things are so bad and the only people who seem to show courage are ordinary individual American citizens who are drawing lines. The people who are in power are not the standard bearers of change. This might sound very naive, and maybe I'm looking at rose colored glasses at a very, very dismal and depressing period in American history, but even today like that, that young Korean-American student who, unlike her institution, Columbia University, and my alma mater, which is completely caving in and not defending academic freedom or even using their bloated endowment to fight for academic freedom and against these really authoritarian demands being made by the Trump regime you have this one student who is suing the Trump administration and challenging the idea that she doesn't have any of the protections of the Bill of Rights. She's not a citizen, but a permanent resident. And we need to think about that. We know that in the 1920s the U.S. government deported even American citizens whom they saw as a threat. And so we can go back to that dark place. I'm thinking of the Palmer Raids and the red scares, etc., that have happened in the past, but there's always been opposition to that kind of authoritarianism. And so I'm hoping that that's the case right now too. I wouldn't look for leadership from economic elites or even political elites at this point. It really has to be ordinary Americans, citizens, just standing up for our rights, because that's the only way to defeat authoritarianism. My husband's German, and he looks at what's happening here and it really makes him think of the rise of fascism in Germany. But I think we are at a different place right now. I think we should be able to mount an effective resistance. And I think of the 1850s, when slave owners pretty much controlled even the federal government, and then suddenly they didn't. I think we can't give up. We can't give up on the American experiment in democratic republicanism, especially on the eve of the semi-quincentennial centennial, the 250th founding anniversary. Im calling you from Philadelphia and Im not really looking forward to the celebrations. I mean, we have to be able to mark that. If there is a fall of the third American Republic, which seems to be in progress, maybe we need to be fighting for the fourth. I wanted to ask you one last question. With the news that Timothy Snyder and Jason Stanley are both going to Canada, it just got me wondering. Oh they are? Theyre leaving for Canada? They are leaving for Canada. The University of Toronto. Oh, this is news to me. I did not know that. There's now, of course, a discourse about whether one is abandoning the fight or if it's more effective to fight from exile. I don't know. Im wondering if you have any thoughts yourself as an academic. You probably don't think of yourself as being on the top of anyone's enemies list, but then a random woman I wrote about [the other] morning, a grad student at Tufts, got detained for speaking out about Palestine. She was a foreign national, but I guess my point is: Who can say who is safe from harassment by this administration? I'm curious what you think about, you know, academics leaving, and whether one can resist abroad and complement the domestic resistance. Well, what's happening in terms of science is truly frightening, because, as I said, they're destroying the United States in terms of we have a leadership position in science, in medicine and higher education, and that is being hollowed out because they are seen as somehow the enemy. People have been talking about a brain drain. The French government is inviting American scientists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our universities are the envy of the world. Our scientific progress is the envy of the world, and they're destroying that. So you don't have to be on the right or left or middle or any way to understand very seriously that this is a threat to the republic and to everything to intellectual endeavor, which is exactly how authoritarians operate, right? We have Supreme Court justices who want to go to the pre-enlightenment era, who invoke medieval law when it comes to women's rights; this is like pre-founding, and these guys are supposedly originalists, but in terms of our Bill of Rights, and in terms of the Reconstruction constitution, they particularly hate the 14th Amendment. They want to gut the republic. So it's at various levels. It's at all levels. And as an academic, and as someone who has to hear somebody like JD Vance say the professors are the enemy and things like that, one does feel that you're living in very precarious times that the next four years are going to be a very rough ride, and the only way one survives these authoritarian regimes is by opposing it. You know, my husband sometimes says that if we get deported, it'll be because of me. Because, you know, when people ask me, I give them my opinion. I'm no great political leader or some sort of influencer or anything like that. But as a historian, what I see today in the United States is extremely dangerous. And in fact, I'm hearing our friends in Europe, in Germany and elsewhere, saying that the United States is really no longer a functioning democracy if these things continue to happen. We are in times that resemble, I think, a little bit the past, but also in kind of new, dangerous times. And at one point, I don't think these forces can be compromised with. They have to be defeated politically. Are you planning to stay put in Connecticut, or are you thinking, that if an opportunity arose elsewhere, you might take it for your own safetys sake? My husband and my children are all dual citizens of the European Union and the United States because they all got German citizenship through my husband. I only have U.S. citizenship. I had to give up my Indian citizenship in order to get it; there's no dual citizenship allowed between the two countries. And I feel that my fight is here. As an American historian, as a historian of the United States, of American democracy, and somebody who was just presenting at Ford's Theater where Lincoln was assassinated by a Confederate sympathizer, I feel very invested in our experiment in democracy and representative government, and my views may be more to the left of you know many other citizens who are similarly invested in this project, but I feel my fight is here that if I had to, if something comes at my doorstep, I will speak out against it. I think what's happening now, in terms of arbitrary deportations and concentration camps in areas beyond our constitutional protections, is un-American. It's against our rule of law. It's against our constitutional order, and everyone any right-thinking person should be speaking out against it. I'm seeing a lot of conservatives some, not a lot, but a few of them who've not totally lost their minds to the MAGA cult speak out against it. And I think we all need to, because it's a slippery slope. Frederick Douglass, I quote him in my book, he says, "once the wheels of progress start going backwards, you don't know when it's going to stop, and it's up to us to make it stop." (Reuters) - Rwandan-backed M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have withdrawn from the strategic town of Walikale, describing the move as a goodwill gesture ahead of planned peace talks with the government next week. M23 has seized eastern Congo's two largest cities in a swift advance since January that has resulted in thousands of deaths and forced hundreds of thousands more from their homes. The fighting has raised fears of a wider regional war, as Congo's neighbours Uganda and Burundi also have troops in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congo's government and M23 plan to hold their first direct talks in Doha on April 9, sources from both camps told Reuters this week. Situated along a road linking four eastern Congo provinces, Walikale is in an area rich in minerals including tin. M23 pledged to withdraw from Walikale last month but initially failed to do so, accusing the Congolese army of going back on its own commitments and not withdrawing attack drones. Two residents and a local official confirmed to Reuters this week that they had left the town. Army spokesperson Sylvain Ekenge told Reuters on Friday that Congolese troops were there, confirming M23 soldiers had left. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If the forces of the Kinshasa regime continue their provocations or attacks on civilians in the liberated areas and on our positions, this gesture of goodwill will automatically be cancelled, and we will eliminate the threat at its source," Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the rebel alliance that includes M23, said in a statement on X on Thursday. Doctors Without Borders said this week that civilians, along with its own teams, had been trapped by the violence in Walikale and that essential medical supplies would soon run out there. The United Nations and Western governments say Rwanda has provided arms and troops to the ethnic Tutsi-led M23. Rwanda has denied backing M23 and says its military has acted in self-defence against Congo's army and a militia founded by perpetrators of the 1994 genocide. (Reporting by Congo newsroom; Writing by Jessica Donati; Editing by Robbie Corey-Boulet and Barbara Lewis) CONNEAUT City leaders heard a presentation on potential lodging options available for the city Thursday. The presentation was delivered by Hotel and Leisure Advisors President David Sangree. H&LA was hired by the Ashtabula County Convention Facilities Authority to study county tourism and see what the best lodging opportunities are. The study compared local lodging to similar tourism communities, such as Sandusky and the Finger Lakes in New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like those communities, Ashtabula County largely draws its tourism from nearby big cities like Cleveland and Pittsburgh, Sangree said. In addition to Conneaut, H&LA studied lodging possibilities for Andover, Jefferson and the Orwell-Rome area. The four communities offer very different levels of commercial demand and nature demand, Sangree said. There is potential, despite the countys declining population, he said. A hotel is depending on visitors coming, and they come if theres something to see, and something to do, he said. They dont really care if the populations declining a bit. Sangree said the study found a boutique hotel with a spa might be the best fit for Conneaut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are fewer spa resorts available to county residents right now, he said. The spa resort industry is targeting the top 20% of Americans, Sangree said. A branded hotel near Interstate 90 would be a good fit for the city, too, he said. If the city goes that way, it should go for a hotel chain not already in the county, Sangree said. Conneaut City Manager Nick Sanford said lodging is an issue that has been discussed for a long time in the city. Under previous City Manager Jim Hockaday, Conneaut commissioned a study which found the city needed new lodging, Sanford said. The project didnt see completion, because of unforeseen circumstances related to COVID, he said. The need still remains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sanford is thankful to CFA for commissioning the study, he said. CFA Chair Holly Mayernick outlined how the group can work with Conneaut. We can float bonds, she said. You have a port authority that can float bonds. You have a port authority that can help with that as well. The CFA can help with synergy too, Mayernick said. We want to make sure that this isnt just a government project, and it has to have private investment ... and it has to have that all-community support before we would ever want to spend a dime, she said. Sanford agreed the community should be brought in, he said. Presentations were made to leaders in Andover last week, and Jefferson and Orwell Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andover and Conneaut have larger lodging opportunities because they get more tourism, Sangree said. During the summer, [Andover is] a major destination for visitors, and theres a lot of camgrounds over there ... which really is much less in Conneaut, because its a bit more urban, he said. Sangree said there is less tourism in Jefferson and around Orwell. The other two could perhaps support smaller properties, he said. BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) The Connecticut Office of the Inspector General released its preliminary report and body camera footage of a Bridgeport police officer shooting a 39-year-old man on March 31. The inspector generals office said that, according to initial police reports, Bridgeport Police Officers Yoon Heo and Erin Perrotta responded at around 5:50 p.m. to East Main Street for the report of a large fight. The inspector generals report states that there was information that people had gathered in connection with a funeral. Person shot and killed by Bridgeport police officer Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement VIDEO: The inspector generals office released Officer Yoon Heos body-worn camera footage. Watch below. According to the report, there was also information that someone in a black Chevrolet Tahoe had a gun. Police located the black Tahoe parked at a store parking lot on East Main Street, which had two people in it, including passenger Dyshan Best. The report states that Perrotta opened the passenger door and told Best he would be patted down. According to the report, Best got out of the vehicle and took off with a Remy Martin liquor bottle in his hand, and Perrotta and Heo chased him on foot. VIDEO: The inspector generals office released Officer Erin Perrottas body-worn camera footage. Watch below. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the report, Best had discarded the liquor bottle by this time. As Best ran up the driveway, he allegedly displayed an object that appeared to be a gun in his right hand, the report states. The inspector general said that Heo deployed a Taser at a gas station near Beecher Street and Kossuth Street. Best allegedly continued to run, losing his shoes as he ran through the gas station. The chase proceeded down Kossuth Street and into a driveway in the 1400 block of Kossuth Street. Heo red his handgun two times, striking Best. The report states police found a Highpoint Compact 9mm handgun next to where he fell. VIDEO: The Citgo gas station on the corner of Boston Avenue and Beecher Street had a surveillance camera that recorded a portion of the chase. Watch it below. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ocers immediately provided medical aid on the scene and continued to do so until members of the Bridgeport Fire Department arrived. Best was taken by ambulance to Bridgeport Hospital, where the inspector general said he was pronounced dead at 7:41 p.m. The oce of the chief medical examiner determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound to his torso and the manner of death to be homicide. The inspector generals officer said neither the death certicate nor toxicology results are currently available. Darnell D. Crosland, an attorney representing Bests family, released a statement earlier this week. We are demanding justice for this tragic and unnecessary loss of life, he said. This family deserves to know why their loved one was shot down in the streets of Bridgeport. We will not rest until we get the truth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Connecticut Office of the Inspector General, Bridgeport Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Western District Major Crime Squad and the Bridgeport Judicial District States Attorneys Office are still investigating the shooting. Bridgeport Police Chief Roderick Porter said Heo and Perrotta are on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Ive been involved law enforcement for 33, 34 years with the Bridgeport Police Department and a total of roughly 38 years of law enforcement experience, and what I view on the video, as I know use of force, as I know training, appears to be in line with the training and what the use of force policy sets forth, but again that ultimate decision comes from the inspector generals office, not me, Porter said at a press conference Friday. Bridgeport Police Chief Roderick Porter held a press conference Friday afternoon. Watch it in the video below. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Two Connecticut women have been extradited from New York to Massachusetts to face organized retail crime charges in connection with thefts at an Old Navy store last summer, Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz said Friday. Tyeisha Bridges, 32, and Shatoya Lewis, 25, pleaded not guilty to the charges during their arraignments on Thursday in Hingham District Court, Cruz said in a statement. Both women are facing one count each of organized retail crime, larceny over $1,200, larceny under $1,200 and two counts of conspiracy. Both women were recently arrested in New York state and were taken into custody by Hanover Police detectives and returned to the Commonwealth to face criminal charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bridges was placed on $4,000 cash bail, while Lewis was placed on $6,000 cash bail. Prosecutors had requested both women to be placed on $50,000 cash bail. Prosecutors allege that Bridges and Lewis collaborated to steal merchandise from an Old Navy store in Hanover on two separate occasions in the summer of 2024. Hanover Police responded to the store on July 9, 2024, after receiving reports of three women carrying bags full of clothing out of the store without paying. Investigators later identified Bridges and Lewis as two of the women involved in the July 2024 incident. Old Navy loss prevention personnel determined 253 pieces of merchandise were stolen during this incident, resulting in about $3,950 worth in losses, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bridges and Lewis were subsequently implicated in a separate incident at the same Old Navy location on August 20, 2024, and allegedly stole about $920 in merchandise. Bridges and Lewis are due back in court on April 29 for a pre-trial hearing. 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 This is an edition of The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. Updated at 12:43 p.m. ET on April 4, 2025. For a few months, the Donald Trump White House managed, at least in public, to keep some of the rights fringiest figures at bay. Until yesterday. The far-right celebrity Laura Loomer was at the White House on Wednesday. If you dont spend a lot of time online, you probably dont know who Loomer is, and thats healthy. To say that she is a conspiracy theorist is not quite enough: She has referred to herself as a proud Islamophobe and has claimed that 9/11 was an inside job; she has charged that some school shootings were staged, accused Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis of exaggerating her struggle with breast cancer, and questioned whether the deep state might have used an atmospheric-research facility in Alaska to create a snowstorm over Des Moines. (Why? So that foul weather would suppress the turnout in the 2024 Iowa GOP caucuses and hurt Trumps campaign.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loomer has even alienated her ostensible allies in the MAGA movement, to say nothing of the hostility she has engendered among various other Republicans. (Peter Schorsch, a former Republican operative who now runs the website Florida Politics, described her to The Washington Post as what happens when you take a gadfly and inject it with that radioactive waste from Godzilla.) Indeed, Trumps own aides found Loomer so toxic that they tried to keep her away from the 2024 campaign, as my colleague Tim Alberta reported last year. A source close to the Trump campaign told Semafor last fall that Trumps people were 100% concerned about her exacerbating Trumps weaknesses, but that attempts to put guardrails around her werent working. Trump clearly likes the 31-year-old provocateur, and in Trumpworld, theres apparently very little anyone can do once the boss takes a shine to someone. And so Loomer reportedly walked into the Oval Office yesterday with a list of people who should be removed from the National Security Council because of their disloyalty to Trump and the MAGA cause. (Asked for comment, Loomer declined to divulge any details about my Oval Office meeting with President Trump. She added, I will continue working hard to support his agenda, and I will continue reiterating the importance of strong vetting, for the sake of protecting the President and our national security.) The next day, at least six staff members, including three senior officials, were fired. If Loomer had nothing to do with it, thats a hell of a coincidence. (The NSC spokesperson Brian Hughes told The Atlantic that the NSC does not comment on personnel matters. Asked by a reporter whether Loomer had anything to do with the firings, President Trump said, No, not at all.) Today, an unnamed U.S. official told Axios that Loomer went to the White House because she was furious that neocons had slipped through the vetting process for administration jobs. The result, according to the official, was a bloodbath that took down perhaps as many as 10 NSC staff members. Most reports named Brian Walsh, the senior director for intelligence, and Thomas Boodry, the senior director for legislative affairs; other reports claim that David Feith, a senior director overseeing technology and national security, and Maggie Dougherty, senior director for international organizations, are among those dismissed. Walsh formerly worked as a senior staff member for Marco Rubio on the Senate Intelligence Committee, Boodry was National Security Adviser Michael Waltzs legislative director when Waltz was a House member, and Feith was a State Department appointee in the first Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The firings at the NSC represent an ongoing struggle between the most extreme MAGA loyalists and whats left of a Republican foreign-policy establishment. Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas, for example, has been in an online tussle with the Republican fringea group that makes Cotton seem almost centrist by comparisonover Alex Wong, another Trump NSC official, whom Loomer and others have, for various reasons, accused of disloyalty to Trump. Other conflicts, however, seem to center on a struggle between Waltz and the head of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, Sergio Gor, who has reportedly been blocking people Waltz wants on his team because Gor and others doubt their commitment to the presidents foreign policy. Such internal ideological and political food fights are common in Washington, but the national security adviser usually doesnt have to stand by while his staff gets turfed on the say-so of an online troll. If these firings happened because Loomer wanted them, its difficult to imagine how Waltz stays in his jobor why hed want to. Waltz, of course, is already slogging through a mess of his own creation because of the controversy surrounding his use of the chat app Signal to have a highly sensitive national-security discussion about a strike on Houthi targets, to which he inadvertently invited a journalistThe Atlantics editor in chief, Jeffrey Goldberg. (Waltzs week wasnt getting any better before Loomer showed up: New reports claim that the meeting about the Yemen strikes was only one of many conversations about important national-security operations that Waltz held over Signal.) Trump reportedly kept Waltz on the team purely to deny giving a scalp to the Democrats and what he perceives as their allies in the mainstream media. Now Waltzs authority as national security adviser is subject to a veto from Laura Loomer? Its one thing to dodge the barbs of the administrations critics; thats a normal part of life in the capital. Its another entirely to have to stand there and take it when an unhinged conspiracy monger walks into the White House and then several accomplished Republican national-security staffers are fired. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reason all of this is happening is that in his second term, Trump is free of any adult supervision. The days when a Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis or a Chief of Staff John Kelly would throw themselves in front of the door rather than let someone like Loomer anywhere near the Oval Office are long gone. Trump has surrounded himself with sycophants who are apparently so scared of being exiled from their lieges presence that they cant bring themselves to stop someone as far out on the fringe as Loomer from advising the president of the United States. Meanwhile, a person close to the administration told my colleague Michael Scherer today that Loomer has been asked to put together a list of people at State who are not MAGA loyalists. Waltz might yet get fired, but whether he stays or goes, he doesnt seem to be in charge of the NSC. Perhaps next well see if Marco Rubio is actually running the State Department. Related: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michael Scherer contributed reporting. Here are three new stories from The Atlantic: Todays News The president of the European Commission said that the bloc is prepared to respond with countermeasures to President Donald Trumps tariffs but will attempt to negotiate with him first. Hungary announced that it will pull out of the International Criminal Court. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces an ICC arrest warrant, landed in Budapest today for a visit. At least seven people have died after intense flooding, tornados, and storms hit the central United States. More extreme weather is expected to continue affecting the area this week. Dispatches Time-Travel Thursdays: RFK Jr.s nostalgia for the past obscures a longer history of Americas struggle with weight-related chronic illness. The truth is, America was never healthy to begin with, Lila Shroff writes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Explore all of our newsletters here. More From The Atlantic Evening Read To Be Happier, Stop Resisting Change By Arthur C. Brooks In 1924, a German professor named Eugen Herrigel set out to learn about Zen Buddhism, which was starting to penetrate the West. He found a teaching position in Japan, where he hoped to locate someone who could instruct him in the philosophy. Rather than the sort of course he had in mind, he was informed that because he lacked proficiency in Japanese, he would be required instead to learn a skillnamely, kyudo (the way of the bow)and this would indirectly impart the Zen truths that he sought In short, Herrigel learned that the secret to archeryand the approach to life he was seekingis to know when to stop resisting change and simply let it occur. Fortunately, you dont have to spend half a decade studying archery in Japan to benefit from this central insight. Read the full article. Culture Break Bruce Davidson Take a look. In the 1960s, Vine Deloria Jr. was a budding Native American activist. Philip J. Deloria writes about his fathers transformationand the world he built at home. Read. Derek Thompson interviews Richard White, the historian and author of The Republic for Which It Stands, about the real story behind the Gilded Age. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Play our daily crossword. Stephanie Bai contributed to this newsletter. When you buy a book using a link in this newsletter, we receive a commission. Thank you for supporting The Atlantic. Article originally published at The Atlantic BISHEK, Kyrgyzstan, April 3. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is expected to support the reconstruction of the Kar-BaltaChaldybar road in Kyrgyzstan, which will provide access to the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), also known as the Middle Corridor, Trend reports via the Kyrgyzstan Presidential Administration. The issue was discussed during a meeting between EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov in Samarkand, according to the Kyrgyz Presidents Administration. Odile Renaud-Basso emphasized that the EBRD remains one of the largest investors in Kyrgyzstan. She noted that since the start of their partnership, the total investment in the country has reached around $1 billion. She also mentioned that last year, the funds allocated to the real sector of Kyrgyzstan's economy amounted to $52 million. Currently, Kyrgyzstan is working on attracting investments for the reconstruction of the road connecting Kar-Balta to Chaldybar, which provides access to Kazakhstan. The Ministry of Transport of Kyrgyzstan plans to begin the project in the first quarter of 2026. The Middle Corridor is a transport and trade route that passes through several countries in the region and connects Asia with Europe. It serves as an alternative to the traditional North and South Corridors. The route starts in China and passes through Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. It then crosses the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey before reaching Europe. The Middle Corridor offers a land route that bypasses longer sea routes, connecting the eastern parts of Asia, including China, with Europe. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Construction is set to begin this summer on a firefighter training center in northwest Grand Rapids. On Tuesday, Grand Rapids City Commission approved a contract with Clark Construction to build a $46 million, 97,855-square-foot training facility at 850 Pannell Street NW, near Alpine Avenue on the West Side. It is set to be completed and ready to move in by the middle of 2026, according to Grand Rapids Professional Firefighters Local 366. With the new building, the Grand Rapids Fire Departments live fire training structure, apparatus repair shop and emergency operations center will all be housed under one roof. Currently, theyre spread out at different locations across the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The union released a rendering of the building. A rendering of a Grand Rapids Fire Department training facility expected to be completed in 2026. (Courtesy) This is an exciting time for the Grand Rapids Fire Department and for the citizens we proudly protect! wrote the firefighter union in a Facebook post. The new facility will be funded, in part, by a portion of $35 million from the state budget and a $1.5 million federal grant that the U.S. Department of Commerce said will be matched with $1.5 million in local funds. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Apr. 3WASHINGTON U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) today introduced the Driving Forward Act, which would continue to exempt new school bus drivers from the "Under-the-Hood" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) testing requirement to help alleviate the nationwide shortage of drivers: "Young Americans are our nation's most valuable resource, and it is essential that they have safe and reliable transportation to their schools," Cornyn said in a news release. "This legislation would help ensure there are school bus drivers available in every neighborhood across the country by removing an antiquated and unnecessary obstacle to their certification." "Children in Wisconsin and across the country should be able to take the bus and get to school safely and on time," said Sen. Baldwin. "Unfortunately, many communities are struggling to find school bus drivers, and that's why I am working with my Republican and Democratic colleagues to cut red tape, get good drivers behind the wheel, and ensure kids can get to school safely." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The school bus driver shortage poses a threat to student safety and access to reliable transportation for students across Tennessee," said Blackburn. "The Driving Forward Act is a commonsense piece of legislation that would get more qualified individuals into the driver's seat by extending the current under-the-hood test exemption." "Kids in Arizona deserve to get to school safe and on time," Kelly said. "This bipartisan bill cuts red tape to help more people become school bus drivers, directly addressing driver shortages and making the drive to school a better one." Companion legislation is being led in the House of Representatives by Congressman John Carter (TX-31). A significant barrier to entry for new bus drivers is the "Under-the-Hood" testing requirement necessary to obtain a CDL. Federal regulations require CDL holders to be able to lift the hood of a school bus and identify engine parts and functionsa requirement that is mainly for the long-haul trucking industry and adds on average an additional three to four days of training time. Texas has used this exemption over 600 times since 2024. Because school bus drivers must remain on the bus with students at all times, an exemption from this testing requirement will not have any effect on the safety level of school bus operations. Should a school bus break down, trained mechanics would complete roadside diagnostics and repairs of mechanical issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The exemption does not change the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)'s vehicle maintenance requirements, including that every motor carrier must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles and that unsafe operations of a motor vehicle are forbidden. Any state or local school bus inspection maintenance standards would continue to apply under this exemption. The FMCSA has confirmed that this exemption does not have an adverse impact on safety. This legislation is endorsed by the National School Transportation Association, School Superintendent Association, National Rural Education Association, National Association for Pupil Transportation, School Business Officials, and Association of Educational Service Agencies. The total cost of the US militarys operation against the Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen is nearing $1 billion in just under three weeks, even as the attacks have had limited impact on destroying the terror groups capabilities, three people briefed on the campaigns progress told CNN. The military offensive, which was launched on March 15, has already used hundreds of millions of dollars worth of munitions for strikes against the group, including JASSM long-range cruise missiles, JSOWs, which are GPS-guided glide bombs, and Tomahawk missiles, the sources said. B-2 bombers out of Diego Garcia are also being used against the Houthis, and an additional aircraft carrier as well as several fighter squadrons and air defense systems will soon be moved into the Central Command region, defense officials said this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the sources said the Pentagon will likely need to request supplemental funding from Congress to continue the operation, but may not receive it the offensive has already been criticized on both sides of the aisle, and even Vice President JD Vance said he thought the operation was a mistake in a Signal chat published by The Atlantic last week. The Pentagon has not publicly disclosed what impact the daily US military strikes have actually had on the Houthis. Officials from the Pentagons Joint Staff, US Central Command, US Indo Pacific Command, Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Policy, and the State Department told Congress in recent days that the strikes have eliminated several members of Houthi leadership and destroyed some Houthi military sites. But they acknowledged that the group has still been able to fortify their bunkers and maintain weapons stockpiles underground, much as they did during the strikes that the Biden administration carried out for over a year, the sources said. And it has been difficult to determine precisely how much the Houthis still have stockpiled, a defense official said. Theyve taken out some sites, but that hasnt affected the Houthis ability to continue shooting at ships in the Red Sea or shooting down US drones, said one of the sources briefed on the operation. Meanwhile, we are burning through readinessmunitions, fuel, deployment time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New York Times first reported details of the military operation shared in briefings with Congress. The operational tempo of the strikes is also higher now that CENTCOM Commander Erik Kurilla no longer needs higher-level approval to conduct strikesa shift from the Biden administration and a return to the policies of Trumps first term, when military commanders were given more freedom to carry out missions in order to achieve a strategic effect as opposed to needing case-by-case approval from the White House for each strike and raid. Its still not clear, though, how long the Trump administration plans to continue the offensive, which CENTCOM has described as a 24/7 operation. Trump has said it will last until the Houthis stop attacking Red Sea shipping, but despite weeks of bombing the Houthis have continued launching missiles and drones at targets in and over the Red Sea. Earlier this week, they shot down another US MQ-9 Reaper dronethe second MQ9 shot down since the offensive began last month, multiple sources told CNN. Another defense official noted, however, that ballistic missile attacks from the Houthis against Israel have decreased in the last week, and said the relentless US bombing campaign has made it more difficult for the Houthis to communicate and hit things accurately because theyve been forced to keep their heads down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The people briefed on the operation also all described the Houthi officials who have been killed in the US strikes as mid-level, akin to middle management. One exception is the Houthi official in charge of the groups drone operations, who was killed in a strike last month, officials said. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz referenced that Houthi leader in the Signal chat in March that was disclosed by The Atlantic. Waltz said in that chat that the Houthis top missile guy was killed when he walked into his girlfriends building in Yemen which collapsed amid US strikes. Two of the sources briefed on the ongoing operation said that comment is indicative of how the US military under Trump is taking a more expansive approach to the strikes than the Biden administration did, in terms of being less concerned about collateral damage. The Houthis have long used more populated areas to conceal command and control sites, the sources said. But one of the defense officials said the building was not a civilian apartment building, but rather a meeting place for Houthi officials, and that the US military is using precision munitions and taking other measures to mitigate the risk of civilian casualties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The large-scale operation has also rattled some officials at US Indo-Pacific Command, who have complained in recent days and weeks about the large number of long-range weapons being expended by CENTCOM against the Houthis, particularly the JASSMs and Tomahawks, the sources said. Those weapons would be critical in the event of a war with China, and military planners at INDOPACOM are concerned that the CENTCOM operation could have a negative impact on US military readiness in the Pacific. One of the defense officials also downplayed that concern, calling it an exaggeration. We employ precision munitions in every strike. We retain authority to use the full capacity of our deployed forces in the Middle East region against the Houthis, the official said. We have no concern about employment of long-range weapons when and if needed to maximize our effectiveness. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com TECOLUCA, El Salvador (AP) Costa Rica's security minister toured El Salvador's maximum-security gang prison on Friday as part of his review of the measures that El Salvador has taken to reduce violence caused by powerful street gangs during a now three-year offensive under a state of emergency. Costa Rica Justice and Peace Minister Gerald Campos Valverde said he was visiting on orders of President Rodrigo Chaves to see the good practices of the Salvadoran people with the goal of combating crime and to returning rights to all citizens. In November, Costa Rica bestowed its highest diplomatic honor on El Salvador President Nayib Bukele for his success in lowering levels of violence during his three-year campaign against powerful street gangs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement El Salvador has lived under a state of emergency that suspends fundamental rights like access to a lawyer. Some 84,000 people have been arrested, accused of gang ties. Homicides have plummeted in El Salvador and the improved security has fueled Bukeles popularity. El Salvadors rescue from those nefarious claws is also helping the peace in our region, Chaves said when he presented Bukele with the recognition last year. The fight against organized crime in any part of Central America is welcome. The reach and influence and bad example of the gangs must be reduced. Campos came away impressed by the gang prison Bukele built at the start of the state of emergency where Campos said he saw fundamental rights being respected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prison's director Belarmino Garcia showed Campos one of the cells holding about 70 inmates. The prison director instructed the inmates to remove their shirts to show their tattooed torsos and asked some to identify their gang affiliation to show that members of rival gangs were sharing the same cell. After his tour, Campos said that Costa Rica would not continue allowing criminals to be arrest by police only to see them quickly freed by the judicial system. We are going to take all of the good practices back to Costa Rica to give Costa Ricans a place of peace and tranquility, he said. El Salvador Security Minister Gustavo Villatoro said earlier Friday that El Salvador was pleased to share its experience with Costa Rica, a country that until recently had been a reference for peace, but now struggles with bloodshed like El Salvador once had. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not a question of copy and paste, but rather of learning what we have done and implementing in each country what precisely can be done to rescue thousands of Costa Ricans, thousands of Salvadorans and imprisoning hundreds, Villatoro said. El Salvador's new gang prison, where inmates are held in large cells and never allowed outside, has gained more attention in recent weeks after the U.S. government sent nearly 300 migrants, including more than 200 Venezuelans, it accused of having gang ties to be held there. Costa Rica continues to struggle with historically high homicide numbers. In 2023, Costa Rica set a homicide record with 907, down somewhat in 2024 to 880. So far this year, the country is on nearly the same homicide pace as last year, according to government data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike Bukele, Chaves does not hold a majority in Congress and has not remade Costa Ricas courts to remove opposition. Costa Rica long applauded for a robust ecotourism industry, environmental conservation and relative peace has been wracked by violence in recent years, largely attributed to drug trafficking. Costa Rica has become a key way station for cocaine exports to Europe and the United States. ___ Associated Press writer Javier Cordoba in San Jose, Costa Rica contributed to this report. With Miller Gardners cause of death officially on the record, attention now turns to potential legal action his family might take in Costa Rica. Miller, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees star Brett Gardner, was found dead inside his room at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Hotel in the countrys tourist region of Manuel Antonio on March 21. His cause of death was ruled as carbon monoxide poisoning on Wednesday, April 2. In an exclusive conversation with Us Weekly, Costa Rican criminal lawyer Joaquin Urena laid out the familys three options to file a lawsuit, which must be done in Costa Rica. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Urena, who is not directly involved in the case, said the Gardners can initiate a criminal proceeding for involuntary manslaughter, which refers to a death caused by negligence, against those responsible for the installation of the machines that produced the carbon monoxide and possibly the engineer who designed the hotel. Why Brett Gardners Family May Have Had Different Physical Reactions to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning The Gardner family could also choose to file a civil lawsuit against the resort to seek damages, Urena said. Lastly, the family also has the option to pursue a civil claim within the criminal process through civil indemnification action, which would potentially compensate the Gardners for their loss for liability of a third party. In this case, the criminal court would rule on both criminal and civil liability at the same time, Urena explained. The charge would be involuntary manslaughter, which carries a penalty ranging from 6 months to 8 years in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Urena added, If the court imposes a sentence of three years or less, a conditional suspension may apply meaning the individual would have a criminal record but would not serve time in prison. Eight years is the maximum prison sentence in this case, Urena explained, because Millers death was the result of negligence. This is very different from intentional homicide, where theres premeditation and intent to kill, he said. In negligent homicide, the person didnt intend to harm anyone, nor did they plan anything but through negligence, they caused another persons death. Ultimately, a potential sentence in the case would be decided on by a judge. There is no knowledge that the Gardners have made any legal moves yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Urena explained that a monetary settlement between the family and the hotel is possible, along with any individuals accused. Brett Gardners Son Miller Gardner Could Have Died Within Minutes, Forensic Pathologist Says In order to reach a potential settlement, it would need to be determined whether the carbon monoxide poisoning could have been prevented or if it was an unforeseeable event, caused by something like structural damage. The Costa Rican Judicial Investigative Agency (OIJ) confirmed Millers cause of death on Wednesday in a statement to Us, stating there was a very specific layer found on Millers organs that forms when a person dies from carbon monoxide poisoning or gas inhalation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the carboxyhemoglobin test, a saturation level of 64 percent was found, OIJs General Director Randall Zuniga said. In such cases, when concentrations exceed 50 percent carboxyhemoglobin, it is considered lethal. In this particular case, with a saturation of 64 percent, the level is clearly well above that lethal threshold. Zuniga continued, Therefore, this confirms the police hypothesis that the death was caused by exposure to poisonous gases, specifically carbon monoxide. With this, the case is practically closed. The only step remaining is for the toxicology report from the OIJ Forensic Sciences Department to be forwarded to the Legal Medicine Department, so the expert can include it in the autopsy report. With reporting by Alejandra Araya Rojas European countries bordering Russia are taking steps to leave a key land mine treaty. Land mines have seen widespread and aggressive use in the Ukraine war. NGOs are concerned about the impact of land mines on civilian populations. A growing number of countries bordering Russia are abandoning a long-standing treaty banning the use of anti-personnel land mines. On Tuesday, Finland became the latest country to announce it was withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention, the 1997 treaty banning the use, sale, and production of land mines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This follows an announcement in March by Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia that they were also withdrawing, amid growing concerns about Russian aggression. Military analysts told Business Insider that the war in Ukraine is reshaping thinking about some weaponry, shattering long-standing bans against the use of weapons like land mines. Land mines make a comeback "Finland will prepare for the withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention," Finnish President Alexander Stubb posted on X Tuesday. He said the decision was "based on a thorough assessment by the relevant ministries and the Defence Forces," but added that the country was "committed to its international obligations on the responsible use of mines." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ottawa Convention has over 160 signatories, with the US, Russia, and China among the notable absences. In announcing their own decision, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland said: "We believe that in the current security environment, it is of paramount importance to provide our defense forces with flexibility and freedom of choice of potential use of new weapon systems and solutions." A Ukrainian soldier piling unexploded land mines in a hole to be destroyed in 2023. Chris McGrath/Getty Images For years, NATO members have developed tactics based on the assumption that modern armies would have to be highly maneuverable. But the Ukraine war has come to more resemble World War I, with sides entrenched in heavily defended static positions. European countries now seem to be rapidly adjusting their strategies in response to the lessons from Ukraine, and over fears that Russia could attack elsewhere in Europe if it gets a partial victory in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jacob Parakilas, a research leader for Defence Strategy, Policy and Capabilities at RAND Europe, told BI that the Ukraine war had proven the continued utility of land mines. "The landmine still has significant military value in shaping the battlefield and deterring or slowing enemy advances," he said. Mines, Mines, everywhere In Ukraine, both sides have often struggled to break through each other's defensive positions, some of which are heavily fortified with minefields. During Ukraine's 2023 counteroffensive, Russia laid vast swaths of the explosives, and Ukraine has also used land mines. Ukraine is now recognized as the most heavily mined country in the world, with estimates suggesting it could take decades and billions of dollars to neutralize them. Naval mines have also been deployed in the Black Sea, which offer their own issues and long-term challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to land mines, Riccardo Labianco, the international policy manager at UK anti-landmines charity MAG, told BI that the risk to civilians is too severe to justify abandoning the Ottawa Treaty. "We recognize there are no easy choices when a state feels under threat of armed aggression, but International Humanitarian Law, including the Ottawa Convention, is designed precisely for times like these," he said. However, Marcus Solarz Hendriks, the head of the national security unit at Policy Exchange, co-authored a report last month calling for the UK government to abandon its own ban. He told BI that Ukraine had shown they were a vital weapon for defending against large-scale invasions, "namely by restricting maneuverability and channelizing troops into pre-prepared kill zones," or areas where large gatherings of troops are targeted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This operational advantage is particularly well suited to numerically disadvantaged forces," he said, "as would likely be the case should these states be forced to defend against attempted Russian advances." Getting your hands on mines Countries like Finland, and to a lesser extent Latvia and Estonia, share long land borders with Russia, putting them on the frontline of any future Russian aggression. Finland also announced Tuesday it was increasing its defense budget to 3% of GDP, and many nations bordering Russia are steeply increasing their defense spending. For those considering land mines, one issue could be obtaining them. The Ottawa Treaty bans not just the use, but also the manufacture of landmines, meaning they can't be easily bought on the European market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parakilas said that some European countries obtain mines from Singapore or South Korea, which has a large, heavily mined border zone with North Korea. Even so, mines aren't difficult to make, he said, meaning that domestic production could be geared up in "the order of months, rather than years or decades." While land mines, at their core, are little changed, some of the tech has developed. This includes sensors that enable mines Russia claims to have developed to distinguish between types of object, enabling them to tell apart an approaching civilian bus from a tank. Others are fitted with devices that mean they defuse after a period of time, reducing the risk of civilians triggering forgotten but unexploded mines years later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Parakilas said that sophisticated devices are more expensive, and are less likely to be used to mine large swaths of territory. Concerns over mines While some countries appear to be looking more favorably on mines, others continue to warn against abandoning the Ottawa Convention, despite the growing threats. Norway's foreign minister, Espen Barth Eide, on Wednesday criticized Finland's announcement. "If we start weakening our commitment, it makes it easier for warring factions around the world to use these weapons again, because it reduces the stigma," he told Reuters. But Solarz Hendriks told BI that a ban on land mines that made sense in the 1990s no longer does in the face of threats from Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran, which all have large land mine stockpiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The recent decisions of our allies to close this capability gap, in the name of self-defense, therefore carry minimal proliferation risk," he suggested. And as the threat of Russia grows, along with concerns over the US's long-term commitments to European security, others could soon join the likes of Finland and the Baltic States in reassessing their opposition to mines. Read the original article on Business Insider YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Days after voicing concerns over the possible move of Mahoning Countys Board of Elections, opposition to leaving Oak Hill Renaissance Place in Youngstown is not dying down. Heres how it affects the city residents, residents of the City of Youngstown it restricts access to the board of elections, said Ken Simon, pastor of New Bethel Baptist Church. Simon was one of a number of local Black leaders attending Thursdays county commissioners meeting, saying the suggested move to the recently purchased Patriot Building in Austintown would create transportation issues for inner-city voters, many of whom dont drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Which, again, discourages city residents, who are already challenged, from voting, Simon said. To move it outside of Youngstown, Youngstowns population is still close to 30% of the countys population, said Youngstown City Councilwoman Anita Davis. She raised a different idea moving to the now vacant Chill Can property on the lower East Side. It would save money, save your money and my money, to make those changes there, Davis said. While no one from the board of elections attended Thursdays meeting, Chairman Dave Betras says hes willing to look at other locations as long as its away from Oak Hill Renaissance Place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commissioner Geno DiFabio says while its clear the elections office needs to leave Oak Hill, officials are still looking over their options. Theres going to be ramifications wherever we move. Were certainly not going to try to disenfranchise anybodys vote thats the last thing I would want, DiFabio said. At this point, no decisions have been made and theres no timeline to make them. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Dyer man gets probation for shooting into Hammond house A Dyer man got three years probation Friday for shooting into a Hammond home in June 2022, court records show. Jordon Novorita, 22, pleaded guilty Feb. 28 to criminal recklessness, a level 5 felony. In exchange, prosecutors agreed to drop all other charges, including attempted murder. Hammond Police responded June 20, 2022 to the 7900 block of Alexander Street. The victim told police a friend had been arguing with his girlfriend before he saw Novorita walk from behind his shed, then heard a loud boom, documents state. Gary man charged after police find gun in traffic stop in stolen car near Thea Bowman A Gary man faces charges after police pulled him over in a stolen car in a school parking lot, then found a gun under his seat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jadoun Williams, 26, is charged with possession of a firearm on school property, theft and two misdemeanors. His next court date is April 9 before Magistrate Aleksandra Dimitrijevic. Gary Police Ofr. D. Paulson started following Williams in a stolen gray Chevrolet Malibu at 9:48 a.m. on April 2 near 15th Avenue and Burr Street to Thea Bowman Leadership Academy, 3401 W. 5th Avenue. He pulled Williams over in the schools parking lot. The officer drew his gun, ordered Williams out and arrested him. He ordered the woman and child out of the car. Williams said he was taking his daughter something at school. The gun was found under the drivers seat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Hancock County dispatcher east of Indianapolis told Paulson that the vehicle had been stolen with a two-month-old baby inside. Further information on the child was not immediately available from the Greenfield Police Department Friday afternoon. Hammond man faces up to 12-year split term in machete attack A Hammond man faces up to a 12-year split term in a 2017 machete attack. Ryan Turner, 32, pleaded guilty in documents filed April 1 to aggravated battery and battery by means of a deadly weapon. A judge would have to accept the plea. His sentencing hearing is May 13. Hammond Police were called at 1:55 a.m. Dec. 9, 2017 to Flat Rock Top in the 6700 block of Calumet Avenue after a Hammond woman and Highland man said they were attacked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two said a man approached them, asked a question and pulled out what looked like a machete and attacked them. Lake Station man faces up to 8 years in shooting A Lake Station man faces up to eight years in a shooting. Michael Vines, 20, pleaded guilty April 3 to attempted aggravated battery. In return, prosecutors have agreed to drop all other charges, including attempted murder. A judge would have to accept the plea. His sentencing hearing is June 11. Court documents allege he stole a semi-automatic handgun from the victim in a long-simmering feud. He fired five shots at him from across the street Aug. 14 on the 2500 block of Fairview Avenue in Lake Station. Post-Tribune archives contributed. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, April 4. Kyrgyzstan and EU should intensify cooperation on feedstocks, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Zhaparov said at the EU-Central Asia summit in Samarkand, Trend reports. "Another promising area of cooperation is the development of critical raw materials. Kyrgyzstan has significant reserves of rare and valuable metals. We propose to intensify cooperation in this area, formalizing it in the form of a separate partnership or roadmap, similar to what has already been done between the European Union and some of our neighborsKazakhstan and Uzbekistan," noted the head of state. In the context of developing cooperation in infrastructure development and creating modern transport corridors, Zhaparov welcomed the EU's initiative to invest funds in the development of sustainable transport connectivity in Central Asia, with a total amount of 10 billion euro. The president emphasized that Kyrgyzstan is determined to deepen its partnership with the EU and expressed confidence that new specific agreements will emerge from todays meeting, providing additional momentum to relations between Central Asia and the European Union. A three-judge panel of the North Carolina Court of Appeals ruled Friday that more than 65,000 votes cast in the contested race for the state Supreme Court in 2024 must be recounted and verified a win for the Republican candidate in the razor-thin, disputed contest and a decision that could potentially tip the election results in his favor. In the ruling, the Republican majority involved in the decision ordered that a group of more than 65,000 voters, whose eligibility was challenged by Republican Supreme Court candidate Jefferson Griffin and his lawyers, now have 15 business days to provide state elections officials with the necessary proof of identity that would verify their votes. The court ruled that any voters who dont respond will not have their votes counted in the race between Griffin and Democrat Allison Riggs, which is still caught in legal battling five months after Election Day. The arduous task of verifying those voter identities will fall on the North Carolina State Board of Elections. And the decision sets up an appeal to North Carolina's highest court, the state Supreme Court the body that the winner of this election will join. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The inclusion of even one unlawful ballot in a vote total dilutes the lawful votes and effectively disenfranchises lawful voters, the Republican majority on the three-person panel wrote in its opinion. Post-election protests protect against this risk of vote dilution by enabling candidates and voters to rigorously investigate the election process, identify and challenge unlawful ballots, and ensure those ballots are not counted. The one Democratic judge involved in the state Court of Appeals' decision said the majoritys ruling amounted to changing the rules by which these lawful voters took part in our electoral process after the election to discard their otherwise valid votes and called the majority's ruling an an attempt to alter the outcome of only one race among many on the ballot is directly counter to law, equity, and the Constitution. The latest decision overturns a ruling by a lower state court from February that had effectively dismissed the case. In a statement, Riggs said her campaign would appeal the ruling. Doing so is all but certain to put the case before the North Carolina state Supreme Court the same bench whose seat is at stake in the case. Republicans currently have a 5-2 majority on that court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will be promptly appealing this deeply misinformed decision that threatens to disenfranchise more than 65,000 lawful voters and sets a dangerous precedent, allowing disappointed politicians to thwart the will of the people, Riggs said in an emailed statement. North Carolinians elected me to keep my seat and I swore an oath to the constitution and the rule of law so I will continue to stand up for the rights of voters in this state and stand in the way of those who would take power from the people. In a statement, Griffin spokesperson Paul Shumaker said, "We are pleased" with the ruling, calling it "a win for the citizens of North Carolina." Griffin himself sits on the Court of Appeals but recused himself from the case. Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin said in a statement that "this partisan decision has no legal basis and is an all-out assault on our democracy and the basic premise that voters decide who wins their elections." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision in the battleground state race is the latest chapter in a running saga since the November election. Griffin and state Republicans have repeatedly claimed that the 65,000 votes in question should be invalidated because they were fraudulently cast by ineligible voters. Litigation over whether those votes should be counted has been stuck in both federal and state courts since the election. A series of legal developments and rulings earlier this year put the decision in the hands of the state court system, though Riggs' campaign hasn't ruled out legal action that would seek to put the matter back before federal judges. Riggs, the incumbent Democratic state Supreme Court judge who was appointed to the bench in 2023, was narrowly ahead of Griffin after Election Day, triggering a series of recounts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A full machine recount, as well as a partial hand recount of the race, both showed Riggs leading Griffin by 734 votes. More than 5.5 million ballots were cast in the race, which the NBC News Decision Desk did not call, amid the recounts and legal cases. Even small changes to the vote count in the race could affect the outcome. Following the original ballot count after Election Day, Griffins team filed hundreds of legal challenges across all of North Carolinas 100 counties, alleging that more than 65,000 people voted illegally. Many of the allegations centered around people who Griffins lawyers claimed didnt have a drivers license number or Social Security number on file in their voter registration records. Their protests were also related to overseas voters who havent lived in North Carolina and overseas voters who failed to provide photo identification with their ballots. In its ruling Friday, the Republican majority on the Court of Appeals instructed the State Board of Elections to immediately direct the county boards to expeditiously identify the military and overseas voters challenged under this protest and notify said voters of their failure to abide by the photo ID requirement or equivalent, to allow said voters fifteen (15) business days from the mailing of the notice to cure the defect, and upon verification, to include in the count of this challenged election the votes of those voters who timely cure their failure to abide by the photo ID requirement and to omit from the final count the votes of those voters who fail to timely cure their deficiencies." In their ruling, the two Republicans said that overseas voters who have never lived in North Carolina should not have their ballots counted. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A German court on Friday handed a former minister for health in the city-state of Berlin a suspended sentence of 18 months for corruption in connection with costs relating to her wedding. "The charge of corruption has been confirmed," the presiding judge found in the case against Dilek Kalayci, a member of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) who served as Berlin senator for health between 2016 and 2021. Kalayci could also lose her pension relating to her period as member of the Berlin parliament and as senator, a position that is equivalent to being a state-level minister. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court found that an agency employed for an official advertising campaign by the health authority had not invoiced the former senator for also organizing her 2019 wedding, indicating that the company head had expected to gain an advantage from Kalayci's position. The court handed the agency head a suspended sentence of 15 months. Kalayci will also have to pay an amount of 6,242 ($6,895), being the amount she profited by, while the agency head will have to pay 9,450. The court found that Kalayci had undermined trust in the public service and the state. It took into account that the ruling would have "massive consequences" economically for the former senator. Both Kalayci and the agency head protested their innocence to the end. "I insist once again that I did not and would never have bribed anyone," Kalayci said after the judgement. STILLWATER, Okla. (KFOR) The Connelly family lost their home in last months wildfires, but Oklahoma State University decided to house them and a few other families, free of charge, while they work on restarting. That offered us a lot of stability, said Andrea Connelly. Connelly is an OSU alumna, pouring back into her alma mater, working as an Extension Program Educator. She specifically works with the Department of Transportation and its Vegetation Management team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Connellys home went up in flames during the historic wildfires that torched the state on March 14. Texas disaster relief team helping Stillwater wildfire victims Remains of the Connelly home. (KFOR) It was a very large panic attack. But then, you know, you put your boots on and just get going, Connelly said. Connelly said her home was on fire at around 4:00 p.m. that day, and by 7:30 p.m., it collapsed. The university decided to step in, housing five families either working on campus or currently enrolled in a degree program. Dr. Amber Manning Ouellette, the Interim Vice President of Student Affairs at OSU, said faculty and staff were able to fill out a form specifying their needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once we received what their needs were, we had a staff member contact them, said Dr. Manning-Ouellette. Dr. Manning-Ouellette said they are always keeping the Cowboy community as their top priority. I think in the state of Oklahoma in general, we are people that would give anyone the shirt off our back, and I feel the same at our institution, she said. Connelly adds, It was incredible just to have everybody just kind of swarm in some way, shape or form. The families dont have to be moved out until May 31, giving them time to figure out their next steps. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Gov. Spencer Cox and Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson at a ceremonial signing event on tech safety bills at the Utah State Capitol on April 4, 2025 (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) In Milan Venegas high school in Provo, students are already required to keep their cellphones tucked away in class. If they get caught scrolling their teacher places the phone into a magnetically locked box until the end of the school day. Despite some initial resistance from his classmates, Venegas said hes noticed some positive effects since the cellphone ban was established during the second semester of his senior year. He even learned the names of the kids sitting in front of him in his English class. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre really cool. They also had lots of great thoughts about what we were reading in our classes and all that stuff that I wish that we maybe had our first semester if they were not on their phones, Venegas said after a news conference hosted by Gov. Spencer Cox. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The change came after lawmakers unveiled plans to pass a bill establishing a universal no-phone policy for all Utah public schools. That new policy is set to extend to schools across Utah, as a new law that bans students from using cellphones, smart watches or other emerging technology devices during classroom hours will take effect July 1. In a ceremonial signature event for three tech safety bills, Cox, who has championed efforts to lower social media usage, especially among teens, said the bills have the potential to redefine the online landscape, not only in Utah but in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I remember getting criticism two years ago for our first social media bills, that we were trying to be a nanny state, to take power away from parents. And its the exact opposite, Cox said on Friday. What we are trying to do is to give parents and families back the power over these destructive and corrosive apps and cellphones. During the event, Cox and Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson ceremoniously signed SB178, the bill that establishes a statewide cellphone ban policy unless any school board decides otherwise. They also signed HB418, which directs social media companies to have a common data infrastructure, and SB142, a legislation that would require Google and Apple to verify the ages of their customers before they make app store purchases. With these new laws, Cox said, the state is aiming to empower Utahns in the online world, which he said is going in a worse direction with artificial intelligence providing even more tools to expand social medias addictive qualities. Its not just the anxiety, depression and self harm that I mentioned, Cox said. But its literally tearing us apart and the fabric of our country. Its making us hate each other as we get addicted to the outrage that is out there. Sen. Lincoln Fillmore, R-South Jordan speaks at a ceremonial signing event on tech safety bills at the Utah State Capitol on April 4, 2025 (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) A cellphone ban is not done Sponsored by Sen. Lincoln Fillmore, R-South Jordan, SB178 sets a statewide policy that prohibits students from using their cellphone during school hours. A few schools in Utah had policies banning cellphones, but Utah law didnt set a default policy, which,Fillmore argued, was itself a policy through inaction that allowed electronic devices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Constant notifications) turn school into, I am constantly under the fear of missing out on what is going on in the virtual world apart from me, Im surrounded by my peers and friends in what is the most formative time in my life, and Im focused on Taylor Swift, Fillmore said. The bill does allow school districts to implement their own phone policies. An earlier proposal initially sought $4.8 million in one-time money to fund equipment, such as magnetic locking pouches for the phones or other types of lockers to store phones during class time. Let us know what you think... However, lawmakers ultimately did not appropriate any money for the bill, with legislators expressing little appetite to pay for the equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the bill still allows some flexibility for local school officials to set their own rules, Cox said its one of the most important education policies approved in the state in the last decade. But, he said theres still some room for improvement. We didnt get bell to bell here, he said about other policies in other states that forbid phones during the whole school day. I just cant let this moment pass to say it is a mistake not to do bell to bell. All of the research is 100% clear that bell to bell does protect our kids so much more than going to recess and getting on your phones, going to lunch and immediately being back on your phones. So I hope we are not done here. Rep. Doug Fiefia, R-Herriman speaks ceremonial signing event on tech safety bills at the Utah State Capitol on April 4, 2025 (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) An unprecedented change for platforms Cox said Rep. Doug Fiefia, R-Herriman, made quite an impression for passing an unprecedented bill as a freshman. With HB418, Utah became the first state in the nation to adopt a law requiring social media platforms to have interoperability systems, meaning having the necessary infrastructure so customers can communicate and share data from different platforms, just like how cellphone companies allow users from different carriers to call each other and carry their phone numbers even if they switch companies. Its a shifting point. It is the turning point. Its a moment in history where we choose people over platforms, families over profits, the greater good over an unchecked algorithm. Its where we shift power back to where it always should remain, with the people with Utah, Fiefia said about his bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cox, who had already described the legislation as one with the potential to change the world, praised the bill again on Friday. I dont think most people understand how groundbreaking this bill is. It is the first of its kind in the country, Cox said. And it really does have the potential to change everything, to break up the monopolies, to give us, again, back our identity. The bill takes effect in July 2026, which Fiefia said gives companies time to figure out how to achieve interoperability. Sen. Todd Weiler, R-Woods Cross, speaks at a ceremonial signing event on tech safety bills at the Utah State Capitol on April 4, 2025 (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) Age verification in app stores Any first-year law school student learns that children cant legally sign contracts, said Sen. Todd Weiler, R-Woods Cross, who sponsored SB142, titled App Store Accountability Act. However, every time a minor downloads or updates an app, they are accepting binding terms and conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You might say, big deal, Weiler said on Friday. Well, these contracts often (give) permission to collect their data, sometimes to access their microphone, even their cameras, to use their data, to sell their data. His bill isnt about controlling content, Weiler added. Its about contracts. The bill mostly applies to Apple and Google, which run the countrys two major app stores. Under the law, with some provisions set to become effective in May, the app stores will be required to collect guardians information, who will then allow any identified minor to download an app requiring a terms of service agreement. Meta, X and Snap issued a joint statement supporting the legislation saying, parents want a one-stop shop to verify their childs age and grant permission for them to download apps in a privacy-preserving way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Kareem Ghanem, director of public policy at Google, one of the companies that will bear the responsibility to verify ages, said in a blog post that a series of legislative proposals pushed by Meta introduce new risks to the privacy of minors, without actually addressing the harms that are inspiring lawmakers to act. Weilers bill, Ghanem said, opens up the potential for bad actors to sell the data or use it for other nefarious purposes. This level of data sharing isnt necessary a weather app doesnt need to know if a user is a kid. By contrast, a social media app does need to make significant decisions about age-appropriate content and features, Ghanem wrote. As written, however, the bill helps social media companies avoid that responsibility despite the fact that apps are just one of many ways that kids can access these platforms. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE HONOLULU (KHON2) Kitchen Manager, Mark Spencer, joined Brittni Friedlander on Wake Up 2Day to discuss all the festive and fun flavors you can find at The Boiling Crab at SALT at Our Kakaako. We specialize in the popular Cajun seafood boil, serving bold flavors and fresh seafood. Well provide the bib and napkins, and hungry guests just need to bring their appetites. Japanese style yakiniku at Hiromi-ya Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unique entrees include fried catfish, gumbo, and Cajun fries, and sodas, beers, and margaritas are also available to help wash it all down. At The Boiling Crab, were happy to extend awesome specials like our College Night Student Special Combo. For just $16, students who present their current college student ID can score a 1/2 lb shrimp, fries, and a soda every Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Plus, they can get $2 off a brew. They went on to explain further. 14 facts: Zuckerbergs secret +$270M Hawaii compound Also, we love to have large parties of friends and families coming together for a lively meal at The Boiling Crab at SALT. If you just want to hang out with some friends or youre celebrating something special, our team is ready to help make it special with delicious food and great service and there is an upstairs dining area where they can reserve their seating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news This month, a fun festivity is coming to SALT at Our Kakaako that can involve the whole family. The Bunny Bash will take place on Sunday, April 20, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at The Barn. 5 facts about the new torpedo bats trend in baseball: Hawaii sports The free, family-friendly event invites families to enjoy various activities, such as taking selfies with the Easter Bunny at a Spring-themed photo station, making Easter-themed crafts, and balloon twisting (while supplies last). 8 things to know about this new home trend: Hawaii real estate Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The SALT Prize Wheel will also be available for chances to win prizes, including gift cards from SALT merchants. Attendees are encouraged to grab a bite at The Boiling Crab or any of the other restaurants at SALT and explore the unique retail shops for gifts or personal items. Check out more news from around Hawaii To find more information on The Boiling Crab and more festive happenings at SALT at Our Kakaako find their Instagram (@boilingcrabhawaii) and (@SaltOurKakaako). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) A lack of training, qualifications and experience among the crew on board a New Zealand navy ship that ran aground, caught fire and sank off the coast of Samoa have been identified by a military Court of Inquiry in a final report released Friday as contributing to the disaster. The deficiencies were among a dozen failings of the crew, ship and New Zealand's Navy that contributed to the loss of the HMNZS Manawanui in October 2024, the 120-page report said. An interim report last November had already divulged that the ships crew didnt realize the vessel was on autopilot and believed something else had gone wrong as it plowed toward a reef. All 75 people on board evacuated to safety as the boat foundered about 1.6 kilometers (a mile) off the coast of Upolu, Samoa's second largest island. The ship was one of only nine in New Zealands navy and was the first the country lost at sea since World War II. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What went wrong? Officials did not immediately know the cause of the sinking and the Court of Inquiry was ordered to find out. Insufficient training, lack of qualified personnel on board and inadequate risk management, were among a raft of problems uncovered in its findings released Friday. The report also underlined the so-called hollowness of New Zealand's navy which prompted the organization to take risks to meet demands with a lean and inexperienced workforce, its authors wrote. It's an indictment on the fact that our navy was left in quite a perilous state, Defense Minister Judith Collins told reporters in Auckland Friday. The whole of the country's military needed a serious uplift, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state of New Zealands aging military hardware has prompted several warnings from the defense agency, which in a March 2024 report described the navy as extremely fragile, with ships idle due to problems retaining the staff needed to service and maintain them. What will happen next? The Court of Inquiry could not make findings of guilt, it said, and suggested a separate disciplinary investigation for individual members of the crew who were not named in the report. Their suggested offenses were redacted. The report included a dramatic transcript of what unfolded on the bridge, with one crew member saying to another that the ship was not really doing what I want it to do" as they tried to change the vessel's course. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's a bad day for the navy, said Rear Admiral Garin Golding, the leader of the navy. Our reputation has taken a hit. The navy would learn from the episode and ensure it wasn't repeated, he added. Fridays findings, however, also urged recognition for those involved in the decision to abandon ship, who the report found saved lives during the evacuation. What happened to the ship? The specialist dive and hydrographic vessel had been in service for New Zealand since 2019 and was surveying the reef that it ran aground on. Its sinking provoked alarm, demands for compensation and fear of environmental catastrophe for Samoan villagers living on the coast where it capsized, who say they fear permanent damage to the fragile reef ecosystem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A no-fishing zone around the vessel was lifted by Samoa's government in February. New Zealand's military said this month that it had completed months of work to remove diesel fuel and other pollutants from the ship, which remains where it sank. Salvage work to retrieve equipment and weapons continues. Seawater and marine life in the area are uncontaminated, the military said, citing Samoa's scientific research agency. A decision about whether the ship will eventually be removed has not been made. YORK COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Firefighters battled a house fire with an entrapment in York County on Thursday night. According to Glen Rock Hose and Ladder Company on Facebook, crews responded to the scene of a structure fire with an entrapment on Brandon Lane in Codorus Township at 7:20 p.m. Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters found a one-story home in flames. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania The fire company said all residents were able to make it out of the home before firefighters arrived at the scene. Crews acted fast, searching the interior of the house before bringing the fire under control only five minutes after their arrival, the fire company said. Images from the scene show part of the house completely engulfed in flames. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President Donald Trump on Thursday offered a first look at his $5 million gold card, a pathway to U.S. citizenship that he looks to sell to wealthy foreign nationals. The president, while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, showed off the gold card, which features his face, the Statue of Liberty and a bald eagle on it. For $5 million, this could be yours, said Trump as he waved the card around in front of the press gaggle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked who the first buyer would be, he replied, Me, Im the first. He added that he doesnt know who the second buyer would be before estimating that the card would come out in about less two weeks. Trump, in February, announced that the gold card would offer buyers green card privileges along with a route to citizenship through their purchase. It marks an effort by Trump that would essentially replace a program that currently gives wealthy investors, as well as their potential spouse and any unmarried children under age 21, a means to obtain lawful permanent U.S. residency. We dont need Congress, added Trump at the time. Its a path to citizenship. A very strong path, but were not doing the citizenship. For that, Id have to get Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump noted that one million card sales could add up to $5 trillion for the U.S. and suggested hes even open to Russian oligarchs obtaining a card. Trump holding up a gold card with his face on it: For $5 million, this can be yours pic.twitter.com/aJtjn077Mc Acyn (@Acyn) April 3, 2025 Social media users clowned Trump over his beyond parody reveal of the card, with some noting that it arrived on the same day that his latest round of tariffs caused stocks to tank. willy wonka ass presidency https://t.co/lhYkUSlEuI jordan (@JordanUhl) April 3, 2025 On a day that every American saw their retirement, investment, and/or college savings funds take a big hit, the guy who we were told speaks for the working American was trying to sell $5 million US visas. What a man of the (extremely wealthy) people! https://t.co/IZXUUx1Mkz Tom Bonier (@tbonier) April 3, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Way, way cool! Maybe he can hit up Paul, Weiss and Skadden and Willkie and Milbank and S&C to buy up boxes of them! https://t.co/6EVkYnxPmw George Conway (@gtconway3d) April 4, 2025 Selling out America to foreign billionaires to own the globalists and put America first, finally https://t.co/QYD4blUMoE Pedro L. Gonzalez (@emeriticus) April 3, 2025 The American century of humiliation is getting off to a beautiful start today https://t.co/zOin8e4ujn wood johnson (@partyrocker42O) April 3, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Can I reverse uno and sell my citizenship for $5 million Soran Ibrahim (@SetsunaFSeiei89) April 3, 2025 Beyond parody https://t.co/NBv2hrEIrd Indianapolis Councilor Nick Roberts (@nickroberts317) April 3, 2025 Russian agents right now: https://t.co/7dzAYmdSfwpic.twitter.com/Cm27jDiVEF I Smoked The Tariffs But I Didnt Smoke The Economy (@BlackKnight10k) April 4, 2025 Related... Apr. 4State lawmakers continue to review a bill Thursday that would modify the legal process for victims of asbestos exposure to receive compensation. The legislation proposes two substantial changes to the way Montana has historically handled asbestos-related lawsuits. The first section of House Bill 803 requires plaintiffs to disclose any claims they have made to asbestos trusts, and the second provision increases the evidentiary standards for a defendant to be named in a case. Rep. Greg Overstreet, R-Stevensville, who sponsored the legislation, characterized the changes as "modest reforms" that would pose little to no barrier for plaintiffs in asbestos cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It does not bar asbestos claims. Not at all," said Overstreet at an April 3 Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Instead, Overstreet claimed the bill took aim at fraudulent claims from lawyers and plaintiffs looking to capitalize on payouts, ultimately making courts more efficient. The Montana Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Chamber of Commerce and a handful of other legal associations backed Overstreet's assertions, but Northwest Montana residents and local lawyers said the legislation would allow large corporations to skirt responsibility. "What we're really talking about here is delay, deny until they die," said Al Smith, a representative of the Montana Trial Lawyers Association. Smith and other opponents argued that the bill would likely increase the burdens plaintiffs face before court proceedings, potentially stalemating legal proceedings before they even begin. In the case of asbestos-related diseases, even a small delay in the filing of a lawsuit could be detrimental, as Leslie Kerr testified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kerr's father, George "Herb" Kerr, was exposed to asbestos while working as a lineman out of Ekalaka and received a mesothelioma diagnosis in the summer of 2021. The family immediately started pursuing legal action, but Kerr's health declined so quickly that lawyers were unable to record a disposition before his passing in January 2022. Without his testimony, Kerr said that her family has faced an uphill legal battle, and she worried that HB 803 would delay court processes for other families affected by asbestos exposure. "This is not intended to help anybody get a quicker settlement," added Kurtis Hafferman, one of the over 2,500 Libby residents diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease. "How can they even say that? It's already been 20 plus years. People are dying and they continue to die." Opponents also questioned the need for state reforms. While proponents referenced several cases filed in other states, there were no examples of Montana's courts dealing with fraudulent cases Montana-based cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most cases of asbestos exposure in Montana can be traced back to a mine near Libby, which was operated by W.R. Grace between 1963 and 1990. The vermiculite from the mine contained an especially dangerous form of asbestos that has been linked to mesothelioma and other lung diseases. The company subsequently set up a trust to compensate victims, but Kalispell-based attorney Roger Sullivan said only 40 of the 2,700 claims made have been paid out. He worried that the required disclosure in HB 803 would further stymy victims' ability to receive compensation through court processes as juries may assume that a plaintiff's claim was paid out, and that there was therefore less need for compensation. "It's an absolute unjust mechanism," said Sullivan. Overstreet said he planned to introduce an amendment that exempted the Libby asbestos cases from the bill's provisions, but other asbestos claimants, such as the Kerr family, would still fall under the new rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Senate Judiciary Committee has yet to vote on HB 803. Four other bills that aimed to change asbestos litigation procedures have faced similarly widespread opposition from Northwest Montana residents and lawmakers. The Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously tabled House Bills 301, 302 and 303 after opponents voiced concerns about the legislation's effect on ongoing litigation against the railroad company that transported much of the vermiculite from the Libby mine. On March 21, the Senate Finance and Claims Committee voted down Senate Bill 385, which would consolidate the state's asbestos claims court, along with several other specialized courts, into a single government claims court system. The bill has not yet been tabled, so the committee may still vote on the legislation. Reporter Hailey Smalley can be reached at hsmalley@dailyinterlake.com or 758-4433. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, April 4. Kyrgyzstan's trade with the EU has grown 2.4 times over the last four years, said Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov at the first EU Central Asia summit in Samarkand, Trend reports. "Over the past four years, Kyrgyzstan's trade with the European Union has increased by 2.4 times, including a 2.6-fold rise in imports and a 1.5-fold increase in exports. These achievements are made possible by open markets and the 'Generalized System of Preferences Plus,' which allows Kyrgyz goods access to the markets of the 27 EU member states," said Japarov. He highlighted that Kyrgyzstans strategic geographical position and its growing transit potential offer vast opportunities for trade and investment, urging European businesses to actively engage in these projects on mutually beneficial terms. "We are inviting European partners to join large-scale hydroelectric projects underway in Kyrgyzstan. One of our flagship projects is the Kambar-Ata-1 Hydroelectric Power Plant. Construction has already begun on this major facility, which has a planned capacity of 1,860 MW and an estimated annual output of 5.6 billion kWh. This project is being implemented jointly with our neighbors Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan," the President said. Japarov also emphasized Kyrgyzstans interest in expanding cooperation with the EU in renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies. "Last year, we commissioned 18 small hydropower stations, and this year we are building another 15. At the same time, weve launched solar energy projects with a combined capacity of over 400 MW," he added. Crude oil futures slumped to near multi-year lows after the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies announced a larger-than-expected production increase on Thursday, compounding the Trump tariff-driven sell-off in energy markets. The decline erased all the geopolitical risk-driven gains since the US struck Houthi militants in mid-March. Brent futures fell 6.42% to $70.14 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) declined 6.64% to $66.95 per barrel on Thursday. Both benchmark prices extended losses during Fridays Asian session, nearing their lowest levels since December 2021. OPECs decision followed US President Donald Trumps Liberation Day announcement of reciprocal tariffs, which rattled financial markets. Investors feared the measures could spark an all-out global trade war, tipping the world economy into recession. Growth-sensitive commodities, including copper and crude oil, were already under pressure, with oil prices falling by 4% after the announcement. The decision by eight OPEC members to raise output exacerbated the fragile sentiment, driving crude prices lower. Notably, the White House confirmed that oil, gas, and refined products were exempt from the new tariffs. OPEC to hike production Eight key members of the OPEC group, including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman, agreed to increase their joint oil output by 411,000 barrels per day in May, speeding up their unwinding of the production cuts. This comprises the increment originally planned for May in addition to two monthly increments, stated OPECs official website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The increase is well above the market estimated 140,000 barrels per day next month. In April, the oil producer cartel is already set to increase output by 135,000 barrels per day after months of delay in easing its voluntary oil production cuts of 2.2 million barrels per day. Market participants expected the organization to maintain a similar volume of production hikes in May. The gradual increases may be paused or reversed subject to evolving market conditions. This flexibility will allow the group to continue to support oil market stability, the organisation added. The eight OPEC+ countries also noted that this measure will provide an opportunity for the participating countries to accelerate their compensation. Some members are required to reduce supplies to compensate for overproduction compared to their output targets, totalling 4.2 million barrels per day. Kazakhstan, the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, and Gabon have been identified s countries exceeding their output targets in recent months. The eight cartel members will meet on 5 May to decide on June production levels. Geopolitical tensions remain a bullish factor However, Trumps tariff threats against key OPEC+ members, including Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, may reduce their supplies, potentially offsetting the planned output increases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump imposed 25% tariffs on countries importing Venezuelan oil, effective this week. Last week, he also threatened to impose tariffs of 25% to 50% on Russias oil buyers and warned of bombing and the implementation of secondary tariffs on Iran. These secondary tariffs represent a new form of sanction through import levies, with China and Indiamajor buyers of oil from these countrieslikely to be significantly affected. Potential reductions in Venezuelan and Iranian oil exports could be material to global supply. According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), Irans oil output has been rising since 2022, currently reaching 1.5 million barrels per day, equivalent to 1.4% of global production. According to OPECs secondary sources, Venezuelas production hit 900,000 barrels per day in the first quarter of 2025, with exports to the US reaching 250,000 barrels per day in January. Reuters reported that Venezuelan crude and fuel exports fell 11.5% in March compared to February, largely due to the latest US sanctions. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) on Thursday warned that if President Trumps tariffs on trading partners last for months it will hurt the economy and American consumers. I think it is a mistake to assume that we will have high tariffs in perpetuity. I dont think that would be good economic policy. I am not a fan of tariffs, Cruz told Fox Business host Larry Kudlow. Cruz said time is going to tell in the next month or two or three what happens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said Trumps aggressive trade policies could be a success, but he also warned they might backfire on the U.S. economy. If the result of yesterdays announcement is a lot of our trading partners across the globe dramatically reduce the tariffs they charge on U.S. goods and services and the consequence of that is the U.S. government dramatically cuts the tariffs that were announced yesterday, that would be a great outcome. That would be good for America, he said. If the result is our trading partners jack up their tariffs and we have high tariffs everywhere, I think that is a bad outcome for America. Tariffs are a tax on consumers, and Im not a fan of jacking up taxes on American consumers, he added. My hope is these tariffs are short-lived and they serve as leverage to lower tariffs across the globe, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cruzs remarks reflect brewing concern on Capitol Hill over Trumps announcement that he would hit countries across the globe with reciprocal tariffs, imposing a 20-percent tariff on imports from the European Union, a 24-percent tariff on goods from Japan and a 32-percent tariff on imports from South Korea. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, on Thursday introduced legislation requiring Congress to pass a joint resolution of approval within 60 days of new tariffs being announced, otherwise they would expire. Four Republican senators Susan Collins (Maine), Lisa Murkowski (Mo.), Mitch McConnell (Ky.) and Rand Paul (Ky.) voted Wednesday for a resolution to undo Trumps 25-percent tariff on Canada, as well as his administrations 10-percent tariff on Canadian energy imports. The resolution passed by a vote of 51-48. All Democrats voted for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Sen. Ted Cruz warned his podcast listeners on Friday that Trumps worldwide tariffs could harm Americans, but the senator is willing to wait and see how the tariffs play out. There is the potential for upside, but there are enormous risks, Cruz said on an episode of his podcast, Verdict with Ted Cruz. The tarrifs, announced by President Donald Trump on Wednesday, range from 10% to 50% on goods from almost every country. Trump sees these tariffs as a way to protect American workers by bringing manufacturing to the United States and a way to punish other countries for their own trade restrictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Cruz said these tariffs could lead to increased prices for American consumers, lost jobs and a potential trade war. If the tariffs stay in place and other countries add tariffs to goods from the United States, Cruz said it could be terrible for Texas and the rest of the country. It will hurt jobs and hurt America, and there is a very real risk of that, Cruz said of a potential trade war. The Senator also said that if the tariffs stay in place, they will become the biggest tax increase we have seen in a long, long, long time. Even so, Cruz isn't moving away from the presidents tariff plan. He sees a possibility world leaders come to the president, ask for the tariffs to be removed, and offer to reverse their own tariffs on American products. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, Cruz joined most Republicans in voting against a bill to block Trumps tariffs on Canada a measure that passed the chamber with the support of four Republicans and every Democrat. With chances unlikely in the House, it remains a mostly symbolic way for senators to express concerns about the Trump trade policy. Cruz has also not moved to support plans to limit a presidents ability to implement tariffs without the backing of Congress. Ideally, Cruz said, countries will decrease tariffs on American goods and the Trump administration would respond by eliminating the tariffs on those countries. He said this would be a good outcome for small businesses, manufacturers and workers. If that happens, I will say Donald Trump had a vision on trade that very few people in the world saw, and this was a friggin home run, Cruz said. The senator also acknowledged that this broad approach to tariffs hasnt been tried since the 1930 Smoot-Hawley tariffs a move that likely worsened the Great Depression. But, Cruz said the size of the American economy now might give the country more leverage and lead to a better outcome than the 1930 tariffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cruz chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation focused much of his concern in the podcast episode on the impact tariffs could have on American car manufacturing. He said that one of the big three American car manufacturers this week told him that the tariffs will cause American car prices to increase and that foreign manufacturers may benefit more. This week, Cruz said, could be the most consequential in Trumps entire second term. Im seeing a lot of Republican cheerleaders that are kind of reflexively defending what the White House is doing, Cruz said. Listen, I love President Trump, I'm his strongest supporter, and I think he's doing incredible things as president. But here's one thing to understand, a tariff is a tax. Tickets are on sale now for the 15th annual Texas Tribune Festival, Texas breakout ideas and politics event happening Nov. 1315 in downtown Austin. Get tickets before May 1 and save big! TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky is sceptical about Russia's approach to ceasefire talks. Source: Lipavsky at the end of a two-day meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brussels, quoted by Radio Prague International, European Pravda reports Details: Lipavsky said that Russia had failed to fulfil even the most elementary and simple things, such as a ceasefire on energy facilities. He said that the criticism from some European countries should not be surprising, as it more or less reflects the Czech point of view. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Czech foreign minister said that he had suggested seeing where the negotiations would lead but added that his confidence in the Russian approach was really very low. On the same day, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the administration of US President Donald Trump expects Russia to be ready to end the war. He said that the US is currently looking at Russia, and added that if they have a "wait-and-see tactic", the US will not be interested in this, and Trump will not hold endless negotiations. Background: Senior officials in the Trump administration have begun to acknowledge that the United States may not be able to reach a peace agreement on Ukraine in the coming months due to additional conditions set by Moscow during negotiations. Meanwhile, Trump told NBC News that he was furious after Putin questioned Volodymyr Zelenskyys legitimacy and suggested that the US could impose additional tariffs of 25-50% on buyers of Russian oil. On 3 April, Russian Presidential Envoy for International Cooperation Kirill Dmitriev confirmed that he was in Washington to meet with US administration officials to "resume dialogue". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) A lot of people want to know whether and when First District Attorney General Steve Finney is going to prosecute alleged serial rapist Sean Williams. Everybody that watches or reads the media, its a constant question wherever I go, Finney told News Channel 11 in a wide-ranging interview about Williams, his offices sexual assault protocol, and the threads linking those two things together. The prosecutor said he currently has to demur when people pepper him with the question about a case thats drawn national media attention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cant talk about it well get him eventually, is the answer Finney gives about a case that has his office doing double duty investigating and prosecuting due to multiple federal lawsuits alleging the Johnson City Police Department (JCPD) failed to adequately investigate Williams. Johnson City has denied all allegations in the lawsuits. Once eventually arrives, Williams, 53, will face anywhere from a handful to a much greater number of rape charges in Washington County. He already faces three child rape charges, based on digital video and photo files allegedly discovered in his possession when Western Carolina University Police arrested him on drug charges in late April 2023. Computer files show 52 Sean Williams alleged rapes Both state and federal prosecutors say those files allegedly arranged in folders and showing Williams assaulting unconscious women and children whom prosecutors believe he had drugged include images and/or video of more than 60 different women. Williams has already been convicted on three child pornography related counts in the case of three child victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of the policing work has been done by JCPD. Despite multiple sexual assault complaints against Williams in 2019 and 2020, the agency had never charged him with any such crimes. They did pursue a federal felon in possession of ammunition charge but were unsuccessful in serving a warrant on him on May 5, 2021. Williams was then at large until his April 29, 2023 drug arrest in Cullowhee, N.C. After officers there found the digital files while looking for drug trafficking evidence, they contacted Johnson City. Finneys office then stepped in, taking JCPD off the case despite existing files on several complaints. The DA said that was to avoid a potential conflict of interest. First Judicial District Investigator Mike Little took over, with the unenviable task of poring over what are alleged to be thousands of images and videos. Because they had been drugged and unconscious, a number of the women didnt even know about their alleged assaults before receiving a call from Finneys office. Mike spent the whole (2023) Memorial Day weekend identifying victims, Finney said. Weve been trying to get with victims since then, some with ease and some without. Theres still some out there, and if they want to come forward,d they are more than welcome. This doors open. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any prosecutions will come after Williamss federal cases are over. He still faces drug and child pornography possession charges in the Western District of North Carolina, but Finney hopes the local cases could be active by the end of this year. Federal prosecutors alluded to more than 60 different women whom Williams allegedly assaulted in his fifth-floor apartment at 200 E. Main St. Just how many of those will translate into criminal cases is still unknown. Youve got to look at the resources whether you try seven, five 10, 20 individually or if you try to try them all together under a common scheme. Evidence shared so far suggests a common scheme of Williams enticing, drugging and then sexually assaulting dozens of women while the female victims were in an obvious state of unconsciousness, according to a search warrant affidavit filed by Little. But a single common scheme case would represent a leap into the unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Very tight rule of law in the state of Tennessee, Finney said. Ive seen it done other places; Ive never seen it done here, which means theyve got to be very similar in how they happen. A number of those victims still havent been identified or reached. Others, having been given the opportunity to feel heard, receive victim advocate services and speak thoroughly with Finneys office, may opt to let the matter lie instead of potentially having to testify. Thats what we saw speaking to each of them, Finney said. It runs the spectrum. Youll have some people saying its over, done, I dont want my name out there, I dont want to have to deal with it anymore, hes got what hes going to get.' Williams was sentenced to 90 years in federal prison in February after being found guilty on three counts of child pornography production, with an extra five years for another guilty plea on an escape charge. He was on the run for more than a month in October and November of 2023 after escaping from a van that was transporting him to a federal court hearing in Greeneville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Therell be others thatll want to pursue it, and of course, were going to take that into consideration. He said every person has reacted differently, but a hallmark of the sexual assault protocol he implemented in the fall of 2022 is to take a victim-centered approach. You take them as they are, and we try to offer resources to them, counseling and things to try to help them get through that, Finney said. The fact that each person is different and reacts differently is part of these cases. Because the federal civil suits have been contentious and his office has been in the thick of working with victims, Finney has occasionally found himself in the crosshairs. An attorney for victims, Vanessa Baehr-Jones, has accused his office of not intending to prosecute Williams for the rapes of women, as well as alleging he interfered in investigations into alleged corruption by JCPD officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A wry grin spread across Finneys face when the subject came up. Anybody knows me knows Im pretty straight up, that what you see is what you get, he said. She and I butted heads. Not always, but we butted heads on some things, and Ill say that my will is as strong as hers. Hes denied all those claims and said the women his office has served in the Williams case are seldom far from his thoughts. Its the hardest part of my job. You cant turn it off. If its not this, its some other issue. And it goes in cycles. I had a whole lot of thoughts about it when he escaped. Not very good thoughts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finney said his prosecutors and investigators continue actively working the cases against Williams, and theyre looking forward to seeing him in a courtroom in the very county where hes alleged to have victimized so many women. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, in touting the Texas Senate's quick pace in passing priority bills this legislative session, is urging the Texas House and its speaker to get moving. The steamroller Senate, as Patrick said, has moved quickly, passing around 200 bills two-and-a-half months into the session. The House, which has passed 10 bills thus far, typically moves at a more measured tempo with 150 representatives considering and debating proposals compared with the Senates 31 members. Patrick, the three-term Republican who presides over the Senate, said he expects the upper chamber to pass almost all of its big bills by April 15. He expressed cautious optimism that the House will soon gather momentum and start passing more Senate proposals under the leadership of new Speaker Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have confidence in Speaker Burrows. I would say were singing from the same songbook, Patrick said. But now, during these next eight to nine weeks, the execution has to take place in the House. If theyre still at a slow pace in another two weeks, Ill be greatly concerned. I believe Speaker Burrows is committed to what hes promised, and that includes school choice and a litany of conservative bills, but now is the time to get into action. Patrick threatened last week to use his power over the Senate to block must-pass bills, like the constitutionally required biennial budget, if the House does not pass his priorities such as banning THC in consumable hemp or expanding judges ability to deny bail. Such a move would essentially force Gov. Greg Abbott to call lawmakers back for a special session. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Dan Patrick urges Texas House to start passing Senate priorities Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen slammed the U.S. on April 3 for its repeated threats to take over Greenland. "You cannot annex another country... Not even with an argument about international security," Frederiksen said on April 3 in response to inflammatory remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump and the White House administration threatening to assume control of Greenland. "This is not only about Greenland or Denmark... This is about the world order that we have built together across the Atlantic over the generations," Frederiksen added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On March 29, Trump said there is a "good possibility" the U.S. could annex Greenland without using military force, but did not rule it out. "We'll get Greenland. Yeah, 100%," Trump said. Frederiksen described the U.S. threats to annex Greenland as a shock to the many years of cooperation between Denmark and the U.S. "When you demand to take over a part of the Kingdom of Denmarks territory, when we are met by pressure and by threats from our closest ally, what are we to believe in about the country that we have admired for so many years?" Frederiksen said. On March 29, when asked what the annexation of Greenland would signal to Russia, which has been illegally occupying Ukrainian lands since 2014, Trump said that was not a concern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I don't really think about that. I don't really care. Greenland's a very separate subject, very different. It's international peace. It's international security and strength," Trump said. Greenland is a self-governing part of the Kingdom of Denmark. The territory is home to a U.S. military base and vast reserves of mineral wealth. Read also: Why Im leaving Trumps America historian Marci Shore Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Thursday reiterated her dismissal of US President Donald Trump's calls to annex Greenland. Trump has repeatedly said he wants the large Arctic Island to become part of the United States. At present, Greenland is autonomous within the Kingdom of Denmark. During a press conference with Greenland's incoming prime minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and his predecessor, Mute Egede, Frederiksen addressed the US directly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You cannot annex another country, not even with an argument about international security," she said. She said the US and Denmark were close friends and there was nothing she wanted more than for their friendship to continue. "If we let ourselves be divided as allies, then we do our foes a favour," she said. "But, when you demand to take over a part of the Kingdom of Denmark's territory, when we are met by pressure and by threats from our closest ally, what are we to believe in about the country that we have admired for so many years?" She said the issue was not only about Greenland or Denmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is about the world order that we have built together across the Atlantic over generations." Frederiksen's three-day trip to Greenland follows last week's visit by a US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance. Frederiksen faces the challenge of balancing relations with the US as an important trading partner, while also affirming Greenland's right to self-determination and maintaining cohesion within Denmark. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, April 4. The funds allocated for climate finance do not meet the expectations of developing countries, the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Zhaparov, said at a climate forum on the sidelines of the EU-Central Asia Summit in Samarkand, Trend reports. The EU is among the main donors of climate finance. However, the funds allocated do not meet the expectations of developing countries. The outcome of the COP29 conference in Baku demonstrated this clearly. In this context, I would like to draw attention to the fact that countries allocate billions and trillions of dollars of funding for wars and conflicts, while the amounts allocated for combating climate change and protecting the environment are incomparably smaller. I would also like to note that the process and mechanism for obtaining climate finance are still complex. Financial resources are not concentrated and are distributed through a large number of different funds and banking structures. I believe that this is not conducive to efficient and fair distribution, he said. ''It is important that climate finance is directed to the needs and priorities of the most vulnerable developing countries, which lack their own funds, resources, and technologies for mitigation and adaptation to climate change, as well as for the green transition in general. In addition to the interests of small island states and least developed countries, the interests of mountainous developing countries, which are among the most vulnerable to climate change, must also be taken into account. European partners have moved to more active support of Central Asian countries both in terms of climate finance and new technologies, the President noted. The European Union has joined Kyrgyzstan's initiative to swap external debt for climate and sustainable development projects. We propose restructuring of the countries' external public debt by applying debt swap mechanisms for specific green projects, Zhaparov concluded. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen slammed Donald Trumps outlandish bid to acquire Greenland Thursday, saying that the United States cannot annex another country. During JD Vances own humiliating trip to the Arctic island last week, he whipped out some of his venture capitalist jargon to allege that Denmark had underinvested in the security architecture of Greenland. Frederiksen gave remarks Thursday alongside Greenlands new Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and his predecessor, Mute Egede, where she voiced her disappointment in the U.S., arguing that Denmark had always been a good ally to the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When you ask our businesses to invest in the U.S., they do. When you ask us to spend more on our defense, we do; and when you ask of us to strengthen security in the Arctic, we are on the same page, Frederiksen said. But when you demand to take over a part of the Kingdom of Denmarks territory, when we are met by pressure and by threats from our closest ally, what are we to believe in about the country that we have admired for so many years? This is about the world order that we have built together across the Atlantic over generations: You cannot annex another country, not even with an argument about international security, Frederiksen said. Frederiksen added that she would still work to maintain relations with the U.S. If we let ourselves be divided as allies, then we do our foes a favor. And I will do everything that I can to prevent that from happening, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it doesnt seem like Trump intends to make that easy. On Wednesday, the Trump administration levied a 20 percent tariff on all imports from the European Union, including Denmark. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen in Brussels Thursday to reaffirm the strong relationship between the two countries, according to a statement from the State Department. Shovels are in the dirt, and Main Street Landing construction is in motion. It really takes people that care to make something happen, and thats whats happening here, said Davenport mayor Mike Matson. This will be a state-of-the-art riverfront destination place that works with one of our gateways in the Midwest, our friend the Mississippi River. The Main Street Landing project is based off of three rounds of public comment on features, colors, designs, and other elements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its really a celebration of how far our community has come, and turning this vision into a reality, said Denise Hnytka, Davenports chief communications officer. Main Street Landing is going to truly transform this 10 acres of riverfront property. Main Street Landing will include a multi-sport area that can be used year round, a spot for kids of all ages and abilities to enjoy play towers, and a spot for people to enjoy nature all around the river. This symbolizes our commitment to creating a vibrant and accessible space that serves all residents of Davenport from our youngest to oldest citizens, said Chad Dyson, Davenports director of parks and recreation. The project cost $27 million. It was paid through special use funding, not local taxpayers wallets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Quad Cities is so proud to have so many things transforming this area both on this side of the river and the other side of the river to make this truly a destination, and the leading place for the front porch of Iowa, which is downtown Davenport, Matson said. Davenport officials expect the project to be completed next fall. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Trump said the new 54% tariffs on China have given him "great power" to negotiate a TikTok deal. He said he would be willing to lower tariffs if countries gave him something "phenomenal." TikTok's April 5 divest-or-ban deadline edges even closer, with no buyer deal confirmed. President Donald Trump is once again waving a tariff reduction carrot at China to get it to cave on a TikTok deal. Trump spoke to reporters on Air Force One on Thursday, a day after imposing a baseline 10% tariff on imports from all countries and increasing China's tariff rate to 54%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he would be open to cutting deals with countries over the tariffs, only if they're willing to give the US "something that's so phenomenal." "For instance, with TikTok as an example, we have the situation with TikTok, where China will probably say, 'We'll approve a deal, but will you do something on the tariff?'" Trump said. "The tariffs give us great power to negotiate, always have," he added. When another reporter asked if he was in talks with China to grant tariff relief in exchange for a deal on TikTok, Trump replied that he was not. Trump has previously floated the possibility of using tariffs to negotiate a TikTok deal with China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a press conference on March 26, Trump said China will have to "play a role" in TikTok's sale, "possibly in the form of an approval." "Maybe I'll give them a little reduction in tariffs or something to get it done, you know, because every point in tariffs is worth more money than TikTok," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. This comes as TikTok's divest-or-ban deadline, slated for April 5, edges closer. In April 2024, the Senate passed a law ordering TikTok's Chinese owner, ByteDance, to sell its stake in the social media platform or have it banned in the US. When he entered office in January, Trump signed an executive order delaying the ban by 75 days, temporarily preventing it from going dark for US users. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the last few months, several parties have indicated interest in acquiring TikTok, like Trump's former treasury secretary, Steve Mnuchin , Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian , former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt, and YouTuber MrBeast. There have also been reports of several eleventh-hour bids from Amazon and the owner of adult content site OnlyFans to buy the platform. Vice President JD Vance said in a Thursday interview with Fox News that a TikTok deal would be reached before the April 5 deadline. Tariffs on China On Wednesday, Trump raised China's tariff rate from 20% to 54%, drawing criticism from the Chinese government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump first imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese goods in February before doubling it to 20% in March. While on the campaign trail last year, Trump said he would impose tariffs of more than 60% tariffs on goods from China if elected. China swiftly retaliated to both rounds of Trump's tariffs. In February, China imposed a 10% tariff on crude oil and agricultural equipment and a 15% tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas. In March, China placed a 10% tariff on soybeans, pork, and beef imports from the US, as well as a 15% tariff on chicken and cotton imports. In response to Trump's increased tariffs on Wednesday, China's Commerce Ministry said in a statement it will "resolutely take countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests." "Trade wars have no winners, and protectionism has no way out. The Chinese side urges the US to immediately lift its unilateral tariff measures and properly resolve differences with trading partners through equal dialogue," it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of press time, China has not announced any retaliatory measures. Representatives for Trump did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. Read the original article on Business Insider EAST ALTON, Ill. Bars are now on some of the windows at Toddle Towne Learning Center in East Alton, Illinois, after a child survived a fall from a second story window March 14. Authorities will not release the childs age or condition, but Susan Berry, director of Toddle Towne, agreed to speak with FOX 2 News. Flood watch: These rivers and creeks around St. Louis are most likely flooded We had never had any serious accident until three weeks ago, and on that day, a child fell into a screened window and the screen broke away from the window and he fell, Berry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Berry said she also could not reveal the childs age for privacy reasons, but she told us infants and toddlers remain downstairs with the upper level having classrooms of three-year-olds and up. We immediately went into what can we do to make sure things are safer, she said, and to make sure accidents dont occur, and so I spent the weekend looking for options to put safety bars on windows that didnt make the kids feel like they were in prison. She said the big windows upstairs are fire escapes that cannot be blocked, but that they have disabled them from the inside. Now we are going through all of our policies and procedures and looking for any area where there might be a hidden danger that we didnt think of, so we can proactively prevent any accidents from happening again, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parent David Wallace commented, Every second, Im just glad it (did not involve) my kids. Wallace says his children once attended center. Flood watch: These rivers and creeks around St. Louis are most likely flooded Im still trying to process how this happened, he said. He says he knows first-hand what kids can get into. Theyre adventurous, but they also need to be watched and be monitored, he said. Wallace encourages parents to look up a centers inspection record, which Berry says she is prepared to talk about with parents. Weve not had any parents withdraw their kids because they felt unsafe. Theyve asked us what we have done, Berry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Daycare violation records in Illinois are available to search at the states Department of Children and Family Services. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Apr. 4A Dayton police recruit arrested last month has been charged with soliciting a teen in Putnam County, Tennessee. Christopher Noe, 29, is facing one count each of solicitation of a minor by an authority figure and attempted sexual exploitation of a minor by an authority figure in Putnam County Circuit Court. His bond was set at $225,000 and his next court date is May 19. The Putnam County Sheriff's Office opened an investigation into Noe on Feb. 25 after receiving multiple reports he was using Snapchat, a social media app, to communicate with a 17-year-old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evidence determined Noe knowingly had inappropriate conversations with the teen, according to the sheriff's office. An arrest warrant was issued and Dayton police arrested Noe on Feb. 26. Noe was enrolled in the police academy at the time of his arrest. The same day, Dayton police issued a statement confirming Noe, who had not been identified at the time, had been discharged from the police academy. "Based on the allegations, the department took swift action, and the police recruit is no longer employed by the department," the statement read. "This individual's conduct is unacceptable and fails to meet the fundamental expectations and ethical standards required of our staff." The Dayton Police Department said it is fully cooperating with the Putnam County Sheriff's Office's investigation. Staff writer Daniel Susco contributed to this report. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) Dayton is less than 50 days away from hosting the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, and the city is making some upgrades to key downtown areas. But as the tempus fugits, will Dayton be ready? COMPLETE COVERAGE: Preparation for the 2025 NATO Parliamentary Assembly in Dayton On parts of Jefferson Street, Ludlow Street, Third Street, Monument Avenue and Main Street, you can see construction is happening as part of a beautification effort from the city. Local leaders say that they are addressing sidewalks, landscaping, and lighting in the heart of downtown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There will also be improvements made to the Montgomery County Civil War Memorial, with changing lights and additional plants to upgrade the surrounding landscape. City leaders say they are on schedule for the various projects to be completed in time for the summit, which runs May 23-26. David Escobar, an engineer with the city, said that while initiated for the summit, these upgrades will be enjoyed by local residents for years to come. Well have beautified landscape trees that really highlight the area and kind of gets rid of that concrete jungle, said Escobar. Kind of breaks up the feel of just concrete and asphalt and adds some beauty to the landscape of downtown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I guess you could say its putting a little bit of that shine back on the Gem City. NATO impact on local businesses in downtown Dayton With less than two months to go, local businesses downtown for their part are preparing for an influx of customers. Owners like Frank Graci with The Flying Pizza, 223 N. Main St., said plans are not finalized, but they are hoping to remain open during the summit and interact with world leaders. Hopefully everybody comes in and tries something different, especially from other nations, said Graci. Maybe we can get some dignitaries in here. Maybe the president, vice president. Who knows? Well take whoever comes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were happy that its coming. Its a once-in-a-lifetime thing. We probably may never, ever get NATO again. So we take it how it comes. The Flying Pizza is among the businesses that will be included inside the NATO Village that will be constructed across part of downtown. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Natalie Winters is a co-host on Steve Bannons War Room A conservative journalist has accused Washington DCs National Press Club of denying her membership because they are jealous of her success on a right-wing podcast. The social club, which dates back to 1908, declined to open its doors to 24-year-old Natalie Winters, a co-host on Steve Bannons War Room. The podcast boasts upwards of 29 million streams, according to Business Insider. Speaking to The Telegraph, Ms Winters attributed her rejection from the historic club to jealousy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frankly, its because our show is so on the ascent in terms of viewership and impact, she said. I think who wouldnt be jealous of War Room? Were the only show in history to have deposed a sitting member of the House. Were the only show that exists that has an audience that can nuke a bill on the House floor by collective action and phone calls. And were the only audience that helped propel president Trump overwhelmingly to victory just a few months ago. Ms Winterss application to join the social club was rejected - Natalie Winters Culture wars between Capitol Hills media have worsened since Trumps White House began to favour more Trump-friendly insurgent publications and broadcasters over traditional outlets like CNN, the BBC and the New York Times in press briefings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So I guess maybe they dont want my presence there because its a harsh reminder of their mass firings and their haemorrhaging viewers, she said. The rejection letter Ms Winters received Ms Winters has also been the subject of scrutiny over her clothing, with one New York Post headline labelling her outfits as skimpy. Quoting the article, Ms Winters wrote on X: Known for my skimpy outfitsExcuse me? Im wearing a blazer. Im actually known for countless exclusive scoops (cited by congressmen and presidents) and hosting the War Room when Bannon went to prison - all before I turned 24. Im never going to dress like a man. F off. In response to a MailOnline headline which referenced her inappropriate outfits, and described the rejection as a huge career blow, Ms Winters responded by posting three laughing emojis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This idea that Im so maniacally obsessed with what I wear and that Im trying to be some like honeypot at the White House is just really unfair, she told The Telegraph. But I think that they devolve to this sort of sexist line of attack because I dont really know what else you would attack our show for. The journalist branded commentary on her outfits as sexist - Natalie Winters Ms Winters added that she is normally remiss to branding something sexist as she is averse to anything reminiscent of the MeToo movement. Allegations that Ms Winters exclusion was politically motivated were denied by the club which said membership included journalists from several conservative outlets including Newsmax and the National Review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Press Club has a long-standing process for reviewing membership applications. Decisions are made in alignment with the standards of journalism we uphold, Bill McCarren, the clubs executive director, said. He added: We do not publicly comment on individual applications out of respect for all involved, Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) In a little over a month, TSA will begin enforcing stricter ID regulations when flying, making travelers provide a Real ID or a passport. Haley Foster with the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles, said their department anticipated a busier season, as the May 7 deadline approaches. As its approaching and kind of getting a little closer, people are realizing that and seeing those wait times on our appointments not being as available, Foster explained. So I think that it might cause a little bit of panic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, some travelers were already prepared with their Real IDs for a while. I did get it early, shared Alex Merk, who had just arrived at Harry Reid airport. I havent really noticed much of a difference. I also have my passport, so I have multiple ways I could be verified. Some travelers, however, put off getting a Real ID due the stress of the DMV. I do need to update it, traveler Chris Wickland said. Pure laziness is keeping me from going to the DMV cause the DMV is a hassle. Wickland told 8 News Now that if it werent for traveling, he would not rush to get a Real ID. The Nevada DMV wants to remind locals that there is still time to set up an appointment online to get your Real ID. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Check that website, because people do cancel like daily, Foster said. This is not a hard deadline, just when TSA will be reinforcing that. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. A powerful spring storm has brought widespread flooding and tornados to parts of the U.S. leaving a trail of destruction including seven deaths. After twisters that resulted immense devastation in Tennessee, Governor Bill Lee warned residents that the storm would continue over the course of the next few days. The main message tonight is dont let your guard down, he said in a Thursday night briefing. And know that while the weather has changed, even in the last 24 hours, it will continue over the next 24 hours, he said. And, in some ways, in different areas with greater amounts of severity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stormy weather has sent massive twisters tearing through Tennessee, Indiana, Arkansas and Missouri. Roofs were ripped off warehouses, neighborhoods were flattened and family members were killed in their homes. The dangerous weather is expected to continue over the next few days with the Southeast in the storm's path and facing similar threats, including rain and hail. Forecasters said that Saturday faces the largest threats, with tornadoes potentially impacting areas from Ohio to Louisiana. A deadly spring storm has led to the deaths of at least seven people and brought life-threatening flash floods and tornadoes to the central and southern U.S.. Impacts are expected to continue through the weekend (@NashvilleFD/X) Water rescues are underway Forecasters in the southern state have warned areas could see as much as 15 inches of rain fall by Sunday, and water rescues were already underway in Nashville and other parts of Tennessee. Nashville and Memphis both recorded daily rain records on Thursday, according to Fox Weather. From 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., [Nashville fire] Special Operations division responded to 15 water-related calls, two HazMat calls, and two investigations, the citys fire department said in a social media post on Thursday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In neighboring Kentucky, where rescues were also conducted, police and fire authorities shared photos of flooded roads and overflowing rivers. Residents in Brindle Ridge, Kentucky, were asked to avoid all travel, as nearly every road in northern Rockcastle had some level of flooding. Rain totals have been higher than expected, and conditions are serious across the state. My request for an emergency declaration was approved, giving us federal support, Governor Andy Beshear wrote on Friday. Swift water rescue teams are out, and we've received emergency response support from other states. Folks, the next 48 hours are critical. Please be alert, avoid high water and make smart decisions. Stay safe, Kentucky, he said. Flooding fills the roads of Mount Vernon, Kentucky, outside the Brindle Ridge Volunteer Fire Department. Police and fire authorities shared photos of flooded roads and highways (Brindle Ridge Volunteer Fire Department/Facebook) At least 25 state highways were swamped, the governors office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Thursday afternoon, 38 river locations in the Ohio River Valley were expected to reach major flood stage, according to the National Weather Service. That means there would be significant evacuations and extensive inundation of structures and roads. Whats expected on Friday? The life-threatening, catastrophic and potentially historic flash flood event was forecast to continue Friday across the Lower Ohio Valley and Mid-South. Storm initiation and movement roughly parallel to the boundary will lead to repeated rounds of heavy rainfall over the same areas, leading to significant to extreme, potentially historic, rainfall totals over increasingly saturated soils, the National Weather Service said. The storm is spawning tornados and flooding and causing significant damage in Tennessee (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) A couple of rounds of significant severe weather are expected from the Mid-South through the Ozarks and ArkLaTex region where Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Texas join together including the potential for very large hail and more strong tornadoes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tens of thousands of customers remain without power following the storm, according to tracker PowerOutage.US. What about the weekend? High risks of excessive rainfall remain in effect through Saturday, marking an increasingly dangerous and life-threatening situation. The repeating rounds of heavy rainfall will raise the risk of potentially catastrophic major flooding in the Ozarks, portions of the Middle Mississippi Valley, and much of the Ohio Valley. The threat of severe thunderstorms capable of producing strong tornadoes and hail will continue for the Lower Mississippi Valley through the Mid-South and Ohio Valley. The risk for more twisters is continuing through Saturday. After that, the severe weather heads eastward (AP) "Saturday looks like the day where there may be multiple supercells and strong tornadoes," said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Adam Douty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hardest hit areas should expect some relief on Sunday as the storm moves into the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, shifting into the Carolinas and toward the Central Gulf Coast. However, major river flooding in the Ohio Valley is likely to continue into early next week. The severe weather risk will also shift eastward into parts of the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast and southern Appalachians on Sunday, with the Storm Prediction Center issuing a Slight Risk for the potential for damaging winds and possibly a few tornadoes. "Saturday is the day that concerns me the most right now," Nashville meteorologist Ryan Husted told Fox Weather. "Because we have time for our atmosphere to recharge, which means we have the potential for dangerous severe thunderstorms once again. In addition, our ground is saturated that means any rain that falls will run off and its going to cause flooding. Im very confident that Saturday is a dangerous day for flash flooding going into Saturday night." A powerful spring storm unleashed tornadoes across parts of the central United States on Wednesday and Thursday, leaving at least seven people dead as forecasters warned the unrelenting system will bring several more days of excessive rain that could trigger widespread life-threatening flash flooding. As has been said repeatedly for the last several days, this has the makings of a catastrophic, potentially historic heavy rainfall and flash flood event, the National Weather Service said in its latest forecast, warning that 15 inches of rain or more could fall in some areas. "Persistent rounds of intense thunderstorms capable of producing torrential downpours" are likely, the weather service added. "Numerous instances of flash flooding can be expected." 'Once in a generation' storm National Weather Service/NOAA The excessive rain in the forecast could shatter records and lead to widespread flash flooding in parts of the lower Ohio Valley and mid-South. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is an event that happens once in a generation to once in a lifetime, the weather service said. According to the NWS Weather Prediction Center, there is a high risk for excessive rainfall in multiple states, including Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee and Arkansas, with "widespread, life-threatening flash flooding" likely. Flooding has already been seen in parts of Kentucky and Tennessee. In Nashville, the fire department said Thursday that it conducted more than a dozen water rescues. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said that at least 25 highways were blocked by floodwaters in the western part of the state. Potentially historic rainfall is expected over through this weekend from the Ozarks into the Mid-South, Middle Mississippi Valley, and Lower Ohio Valley. Any flash and riverine flooding across these areas will have the potential to become catastrophic and life-threatening. pic.twitter.com/jD9NNdZfAj NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) April 2, 2025 The slow-moving front will remain stalled over the central and mid-South states through the weekend, dumping potentially historic amounts of rainfall across the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Up to 15 inches of rain or more is possible in some areas, forecasters said. Its very unusual to forecast this much rainfall without a tropical storm or a hurricane," AccuWeather chief meteorologist Jonathan Porter said. "Some areas could receive intense rainfall rates of two inches an hour or more for an extended period, which can quickly trigger dangerous flash flooding. Deadly tornado outbreak Residents in Selmer, Tenn., sift through debris after a suspected tornado on Thursday. (Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal/USA Today Network via Reuters) The system spawned dozens of reported tornadoes from Oklahoma to Indiana, leaving at least seven people dead and hundreds of thousands without power. In Tennessee, at least five people in four separate counties were killed as violent storms and multiple tornadoes swept across the state. In hard-hit Selmer, entire neighborhoods were completely wiped out, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee said at a news conference late Thursday, In Missouri, the state highway patrol confirmed one weather-related fatality: a fire chief who died while trying to help a stranded motorist. In Indiana, officials said a man who came into contact with downed power lines in Hendricks County was killed overnight. And two people were injured when part of the Sur La Table warehouse collapsed in Brownsburg, where emergency crews worked for several hours to free a trapped worker, according to the Associated Press. In Kentucky, at least four people were injured when a church was hit by debris from a suspected tornado in Ballard County, officials said. Another tornado touched down Wednesday night around Jeffersontown, near Louisville, causing extensive damage to an industrial park. But there were no reported fatalities, according to Beshear's office. A damaged truck sits under a section of collapsed warehouse wall after violent storms and tornadoes tore through in Jeffersontown, Ky., Thursday. (Jon Cherry/AP) In Arkansas, multiple tornadoes were confirmed amid widespread reports of damage. The states division of emergency management said that at least 22 counties were reporting damage brought on by high winds, hail, tornadoes and flooding. Many of the same areas could see strong thunderstorms on Friday, the weather service said, with some capable of producing strong to intense tornadoes and very large hail. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Kyrgyzstan will host a series of events aimed at promoting sustainable mountain development, including the "Global Mountain Dialogue" international conference, set to take place on April 24-25, 2025, the country's President Sadyr Zhaparov said at a climate forum held as part of the "EU-Central Asia" summit in Samarkand, Trend reports. "We are grateful to all our international partners for the adoption of the United Nations General Assembly resolution on sustainable mountain development, initiated by us, which declared the years 2023-2027 as the Decade of Action for the development of mountain regions. As part of the Mountain Decade, we will conduct the following events: the 'Global Mountain Dialogue' international conference in Kyrgyzstan on April 24-25 this year. In 2026, we plan to hold a press summit in New York. In 2027, at the second Global Mountain Summit, Bishkek Plus 25, we will assess the results of the Mountain Decade and define our future steps to preserve mountain ecosystems and ensure the sustainable development of mountain regions," he said. As Zhaparov pointed out, Kyrgyzstan found itself in a real pickle last year with a sudden surge in landslides, leading to a heap of trouble for infrastructure, not to mention the heartbreaking loss of life and the displacement of many people. "Additionally, we are witnessing the rapid melting of glaciers, a reduction in glacier area, water scarcity, droughts, and desertification. The frequency and scale of these issues have been growing each year. Over the past 70 years, the glacier area in Kyrgyzstan has decreased by 16 percent, and by 2100, we may lose more than half of our glaciers," the president noted. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) Death of a Unicorn is the newest A24 horror that aims to satirize the wealthy, but though it has some good ideas, it doesnt fully commit to a tone or the right character choices. Written and directed by Alex Scharfman, Death of a Unicorn stars Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega as a father and daughter who accidentally hit a unicorn while driving to a remote estate. Rudds character is a lawyer who hopes to sign a life-changing deal with a dying wealthy pharma CEO played by Richard E. Grant. But when they discover that the unicorns blood and horn have restorative powers, the CEOs family aims to exploit the unicorn. Will Poulter and Tea Leoni play the billionaires son and wife, respectively. Locked Review: Locked in a Car Movie Gets Lost Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Death of a Unicorn is strongest when it commits to satirizing the rich. Poulter gives the films best performance as the spoiled rich bro who is the most annoying combination of confident and incompetent. And the familys exploitation of the unicorn is both brutal and on point. The problem is that it doesnt fully commit to its premise. Rudds character is a representation of the nouveau riche, someone who has recently acquired wealth but doesnt fit in or tries too hard. His character should begin the film as unlikeable as possible, so the arc of his character has somewhere to go by the films end. Though he brutally brains the unicorn with a tire iron in the first scene, hes still Paul Rudd, an actor that exudes good-natured charm and charisma. Thats not the only structural issue. The film includes a prophesy about humans interaction with unicorns, and while it serves one function to prove Ortegas character as competent and knowledgeable it does the film a disservice because it makes the rest of the story too predictable. Theres no suspense during Death of a Unicorns final moments because weve already seen too much of the prophesy come to pass. The CGI makes the unicorn action look more like a fifties creature feature than modern photo-real characters, and if that was an artistic or aesthetic choice, it didnt work for me. Even though the unicorn action was hilariously and appropriately bloody and over-the-top, the special effects could have used another pass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A24 rarely misses in the horror genre, but Death of a Unicorn is a rare exception. Its satire and ideas are interesting, and some of the depictions are fun, but the film doesnt come together or fully commit to what its trying to do. Eyewitness News. Everywhere you are. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). Apr. 4A Decatur man was charged Friday with first-degree rape and is being held without bond pending an Aniah's Law hearing which has yet to be set, according to a police affidavit and court records. The affidavit said on Jan. 25, 2021, a worker from the Department of Human Resources told the Decatur Police Department that a child reported Pascual Francisco Jimenez, 38, had raped them when they were under the age of 12. "Francisco was interviewed Post Adult Miranda, where he confessed to the rape," the affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under Aniah's Law, suspects charged with certain violent crimes including first-degree rape can be held without bond after a hearing to determine if they are a flight risk or a danger to the public. The state law, named after slain college student Aniah Blanchard, was approved in 2022 and expanded the list of offenses appropriate for pretrial detention without bail. wesley.tomlinson@decaturdaily.com or 256-340-2442. Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore Native News + ICT Editors note: This story is the first in a periodic series that will focus on Native entrepreneurs in the Pacific Northwest. Since she was young, Molly Washington, Ndee and Mexican-American, has always been a vocal advocate for what she believes in. Washington has worked at a variety of law firms and also served as the Deputy City Attorney for the city of Portland from 2015 to 2020. More recently, she worked for the National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) Oregon, first as the chief operating officer and then as the chief programs officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May 2024, Washington opened her own practice, Ndee Law LLC, after more than a decade as an attorney. I've always been an advocate, so people would probably describe me as maybe even argumentative, she said. If I felt strongly about something, I was not scared to voice my opinion or to engage in dialogue back and forth to try to explain and convince people about why I felt the way I felt. Washington grew up in Waterloo, Iowa, raised by her adoptive parents. I am a split feather, lost bird, which means I am a Native adoptee and a Native former foster child, Washington said. I'm also a trans-racial adoptee, which means the parents who raised me are white. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She described herself as a curious kid full of questions about the world. That curiosity and determination to voice her mind carried into adulthood and led her to a career as a lawyer. I am ancestor guided and I ask Creator almost every day to illuminate my path, Washington said. And then I will walk it, without question. On April 1, Washington began a position as the Senior Policy Advisor for the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board (NPAIHB). I looked at the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board strategic plan, and looked at their list of: If our vision is realized, if the mission is achieved, this is Indian health in five years and 10 years. This is what you should see, Washington said. Every single thing on that list was real, tangible. Those things we had achieved previously, before colonization. It's things that can still be achieved in our future, for our next seven generations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington will help NPAHIB work toward that vision through policy advocacy and working with the members and delegates from the 43 federally recognized Native nations from Oregon, Washington and Idaho that NPAHIB serves. She is also board chair of the Native American Youth and Center (NAYA). With her new role, Washington is not currently taking on new clients but retaining current ones. Even so, she continues to make herself available to the community when needs arise. "I will always make space and time for them," Washington said. "I think the new role will give me something additional to offer for the pathway of Indigenous legal practitioners." Washington lives in Portland with her husband, Rakeem Washington, whom she met at Lewis & Clark Law School. Rakeem now owns his own company called Engage to Change, which provides anti-racism, anti-oppression consulting and training. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Washingtons have four kids ages 16, 13, 7 and 18 months. Journey to law Washington earned her bachelor of arts degree in art with an emphasis on graphic design from the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, staying close to home. After graduation, she realized she wanted to experience living somewhere else. In the summer of 2003, two years before starting law school at Lewis & Clark, Washington drove to Portland with all her belongings packed into her red 1994 Oldsmobile Achieva and no plan. She had one friend in Portland, and got lucky enough to secure an apartment in the same building. Needing a job, Washington brought her resume to the Portland City Grill and was hired as a cocktail waitress that same day. Washington spent five years working at the Portland City Grill, and it even helped her secure her first job at a law firm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After graduation from law school, Washington had yet to secure a job, so began to look for law firms on Craigslist while still working at Portland City Grill. She found one that happened to be in the same building, called Smith Freed & Eberhard. Washington realized that she recognized the managing partner from when he came down to the restaurant for post-work drinks. So she emailed him. That same night, he came into Portland City Grill. Washington introduced herself with confidence, and he set up a time for her to come in for an interview. Washington got a job as a contract attorney at Smith Freed & Eberhard, but she kept her job at Portland City Grill for about eight months before being offered an associate attorney position. Photo courtesy of Molly Washington. On Fridays, I would leave the law firm, I would go down 13 floors to the 30th floor to the Portland City Grill. I would change into my uniform, and my colleagues would come downstairs, and I would wait on them, Washington said. I was an attorney by day and a cocktail waitress by night for many months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington worked at Smith Freed & Eberhard for just over a year. Since then, she has worked at a variety of other firms, in addition to her Deputy City Attorney stint and role at NAMC. Now, with Ndee Law LLC, she has her own firm. Ndee Law LLC: advocacy and empowerment Ndee Law LLC, an Oregon-based law firm, specializes in contracts and transactions, construction law, small business support, public contracting and private projects, procurement, policy and advocacy, and equitable contracting and workforce diversity, according to its website. Washington also hopes to create more access and pathways for future Indigenous legal practitioners in her work. Part of that means emphasizing Indigenous wisdom and decolonization in her practice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I knew there was a way to serve people in the law that would mitigate some of the harm people experience when they're in a legal situation, Washington said, speaking to her motivation behind starting Ndee Law LLC. I try to include a decolonized approach as best as I can do in a system that was built on colonization. So the way that works is I incorporate our Native cultural values and practices as much as possible. Sometimes this means inviting Creator into the room before a conversation or starting by smudging with sage, she continued. It means recognizing power dynamics at play and making it known that everyone in the room has something valuable to contribute. Having Indigenous legal practitioners in all aspects of law incorporating their lived experiences into their work is crucial, according to Jeremy Aliason, Seminole, Muscogee and Filipino. [The law] is the penultimate of colonialism, Aliason said. Yes, the system was not built for us, but how do we use it to support our communities? And by the system I mean the justice system, I mean the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aliason is the executive director of Legal Aid Services of Oregon and the first Native American director of any Oregon legal aid program. He met Washington the summer before she started at Lewis & Clark Law School during an Opportunities for Law in Oregon (OLIO) conference. What Molly does and does well is to make space for other people to be seen, Aliason said. Ryan McDonald, Wiyot Tribe, grew up in Washougal, Washington helping with his dads company, McDonald Excavating. He originally met Washington when she was working at NAMC-Oregon and brought together a group of Native-owned construction companies. Shes very aggressive in advocating for her people, McDonald said. She put our name out there and we got quite a bit of work from it. She just was always there to help. Photo courtesy of Molly Washington. When Washington opened Ndee Law LLC, McDonald decided to come on as one of her clients. He appreciates how she works to decolonize her practice, he said. McDonald also expressed appreciation for how she communicates with her clients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Molly, you're just having a conversation as people, McDonald said. She really puts law into layman's terms for someone like me who doesnt understand that language. In her work at Ndee Law LLC, and with others such as Aliason, Washington hopes to inspire young Indigenous people to pursue a career in law. I have to be working to develop the pathway because thats part of the seven generations, Washington said. We're some of the most appropriate people to be doing this work, because of our experiences and because of our adaptability, and because of our knowledge and ability to learn and to survive and be resilient. This story is co-published by Underscore.news and ICT, a news partnership that covers Indigenous communities in the Pacific Northwest. Funding is provided in part by Meyer Memorial Trust. Our stories are worth telling. Our stories are worth sharing. Our stories are worth your support. Contribute $5 or $10 today to help ICT carry out its critical mission. Sign up for ICTs free newsletter. The Constitutional Reform Act 2005, one of the flagship statutes of the Blair government, was passed almost exactly twenty years ago. Among other things, it abolished the Appellate Committee of the House of Lords and replaced it with a new court of final appeal for the United Kingdom to be called the Supreme Court. The change was largely cosmetic. It was designed to correct the constitutional anomaly that the highest court of the land was nominally a committee of the legislature. In the British constitution it is quite common to find that the label is no guide to the contents of the bottle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But everyone who cared to know realised that the Appellate Committee was actually a proper court whose judicial functions were quite distinct from everything else that happened in the building. The Supreme Court is institutionally and physically separate from the House of Lords, but otherwise it is exactly the same as the old Appellate Committee. The three main differences between the Supreme Court and the Law Lords have all been wholly positive. First, its judges are chosen on merit by a non-political commission. There is therefore no danger of the selection process being used to politicise the Court, as has happened in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Secondly, the Supreme Court is more deliberative and collegiate than its predecessor. The result has been a higher quality of judgements, more coherent and more useful as explanations of the law. Thirdly, the Court has a closer engagement with the public whom it serves. Brief explanations of each decision in non-technical language are given when the judgements are handed down. Nevertheless, the Supreme Court has proved to be surprisingly controversial in some quarters, and notably on the right. This is mainly due to the two Gina Miller decisions. They were significant interventions in the prolonged constitutional crisis generated by the decision to leave the European Union. Many leavers condemned them without any evidence as politically motivated decisions by judicial remainers trying to sabotage Brexit. The Johnson government at one stage toyed with the idea of abolishing it. The former UKIP MP Douglas Carswell recently called in this newspaper for the Law Lords to be restored. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Courts critics seem to have been misled by its name. They think that it is a British version of the US Supreme Court which can override Acts of Congress. In fact the Supreme Court has no power to override Acts of Parliament, any more than the Law Lords did, although both courts were required by statute to give overriding effect to EU law while we were members of the European Community. Far from undermining the constitutional authority of Parliament, the Supreme Court has consistently defended it. In the first Gina Miller case, it decided that Theresa May could not give notice to leave the European Union without Parliamentary approval. In the second one it decided that Boris Johnson could not prorogue Parliament whenever it suited him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both decisions involved fundamental issues of constitutional law which had to be decided by a court. Since then, the Supreme Court has held in two landmark cases that where considerations of social, economic or political policy are relevant in a public law case, judges should normally take their cue from Parliament. The Courts critics are often people who object not just to the constitutional role of judges but to the role of Parliament itself. Mr Carswell, for instance, would like to see a British government ruling by what he calls orders in council, i.e. by decree. We are only a democracy because governments are answerable to the elected House of Commons. So long as Parliamentary democracy remains the foundation of our constitution, the Supreme Court will have an indispensable role to play in our national life. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Updated at 5:20 p.m. ET on April 4, 2025 Last month, when the Trump administration invoked the Alien Enemies Act to remove people without any legal process, my organization, the ACLU, sued to try to stop the deportations. At first, things proceeded as one might expect. Because we showed that our clients were in imminent danger and that the Trump administrations actions had, at minimum, serious legal problems, the federal court hearing the case ordered the government to pause the deportations and immediately send back any deportation flights that were already in the air. But then things took a surprising turn. The Trump administration kept the planes going, whisking our clients to a Salvadoran prison. Since then, the judge has been trying to determine whether his orders were violated. The government has repeatedly evaded the judges simple questions about its actions, and has now flatly refused to answer them, claiming that details about the flights, which can largely be corroborated through public information and Cabinet secretaries own social-media posts, involve state secrets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Adam Serwer: Trumps Salvadoran gulag] These and similar executive actions have spurred serious concerns that the Trump administration is bringing the country into a full-fledged constitutional crisis. Plaintiffs in at least three other constitutional cases challenging Donald Trumps actionstwo cases related to Trumps freezing of USAID funds and an ACLU case about his threat to cut off federal-grant funding to medical facilities that provide health care for transgender youthhave had to return to court to enforce prior orders. Meanwhile, Trumps close advisers and alliesincluding Vice President J. D. Vance, Elon Musk, and a few members of Congresshave suggested, some more directly than others, that the president should disobey judicial rulings and wage a war of words against federal judges. But the Trump administration has not openly defied a court order, at least not yet, and there are still many tools that advocates and citizens have at their disposal to ensure that rule of law prevails in America. For now, the Trump administration is mostly testing existing limits on executive power. Trump remarked early on to a Washington Post reporter that he always abides by court orders and expresses disagreement through appeal, but his actions tell a different story. Justice Department attorneys have responded to charges of noncompliance with technical rebuttals about what happened and when, and have taken the extraordinary position that the courts have no role in reviewing whether the presidents actions comply with the Constitution. While these disputes make their way to the Supreme Court, Chief Justice John Roberts has made his views known on Trumps statement outside the courts. After Trump called for the impeachment of the judge in the Alien Enemies Act case, the chief justice issued a rare public statement cautioning that appeal, not impeachment, is the proper recourse for disagreeing with a court ruling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Trump is taking ever more radical actions to undermine the foundations of American democracy. Since Inauguration Day, Trump has attacked the Fourteenth Amendments birthright-citizenship guarantee. He has detained green-card holders and international students for their constitutionally protected speech. He has attacked the rights of trans youth to access health care. And he has mounted an aggressive assault on institutions essential to a free country, threatening sanctions against major media companies, universities, and legal firms. Trump has targeted five of the nations largest law firms for past representation of his political opponents or disfavored causes and other lawyers who work on national security, public safety, and election integrity. Attacks against lawyers and judges are especially dangerous because Trump knows that the courts constitutional role is to check him when he violates the Constitution and laws enacted by Congress. There will always be good lawyers who will be undeterred in the honorable pursuit of our profession, but Trumps fear tactics are already working. The president is using the power of the federal government to silence opposition. Even in this grim landscape, plaintiffs and others who oppose Trumps lawlessness have powerful tools to counter him. In the USAID cases, federal workers won their motions to enforce the courts preliminary orders, and so far have prevailed in both the court of appeals and the Supreme Court. Legal remedies, which also have political consequences, can force even powerful executive-branch officials to comply. [Read: The cruel attack on USAID] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I speak from experience. In 2015, I led a legal team that brought a contempt motion against then-Sheriff Joe Arpaio of Maricopa County, Arizona, who had defied multiple court orders in our case challenging racial profiling and unjustified traffic stops of Latino residents. After a 22-day trial, the district court held Arpaio in civil contempt of court, ordered reforms to the internal-affairs system, and imposed an independent authority to conduct disciplinary proceedings in certain misconduct cases. When we proved that Arpaios disobedience was willful, federal prosecutors initiated criminal contempt proceedings. Although Trump later pardoned Arpaio, the civil-contempt remedies proved far more consequential: Our clientsa plaintiff class of Latino residentsprotected themselves from lawless misconduct. Similarly, in 2018, the ACLU and our partners had to enforce court orders after we successfully challenged Kansass state voter-ID law under the National Voter Registration Act. In contempt proceedings, thenSecretary of State Kris Kobach was forced to add 18,000 disenfranchised citizens to the voter rolls and issue corrected guidance to election officials. To deal with Kobachs repeated violations, the district court also imposed a financial sanction and ordered him to take a course on civil procedure and legal ethics. In both the Arpaio and Kobach cases, a political reckoning soon emerged. Contempt proceedings educate and galvanize the public. Every day of our 22-day contempt trial against Arpaio, we were met outside the courthouse by two groups: reporters and community protesters. It was the work of everyone together, especially our clients, that ensured that the rule of law prevailed. In the Arpaio case, the people of Maricopa County delivered another measure of justice when they voted him out of office in the next election. There is, of course, a difference between Trump and other recalcitrant defendants: Federal courts cannot enforce their own orders; they depend on the U.S. Marshals Service, a law-enforcement agency within the Justice Department. And because the judiciarys enforcement arm is in the executive branch, the president may direct the Marshals Service to stand down. The constitutional crisis comes to a head when the courts order Trump to comply, and he essentially responds: You cant make me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Trump precipitates this constitutional crisis, the remedy the Framers provided was impeachment and removal from office. If Congress refuses to impeach the president, Americans still have other tools to constrain him, including at the ballot box. The ultimate check on his abuses will be in the hands of the people. The constitutional system of checks and balances is still holdingfor now. Article originally published at The Atlantic After several heated debates in both the House and Senate and many hours of back-and-forth negotiations, Mississippi lawmakers passed a measure recently to ban diversity, equity and inclusion policies at Mississippi schools, community colleges and universities. The legislation, House Bill 1193, passed by the House Tuesday, April 1, and Wednesday, April 2, in the Senate, would fall in line with recent executive orders signed by President Donald J. Trump to ban DEI policies within the federal government. The bill, on top of banning DEI policies and teachings, also seeks to establish internal reporting mechanisms and legal recourses to prevent any DEI activity. "We had to take into consideration the federal executive orders that have passed down," Senate Universities and Colleges Chairwoman Nicole Boyd, R-Oxford said. "We worked with the House to get a bill that we thought would be good guidance for our K-12 schools, our community colleges and our IHL institutions to work with what we were looking for." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During every debate in both the House and Senate this session, Democrats have challenged the legislation, saying it would erode protections for minorities that have helped to make Mississippi's education system a more inclusive setting for both working professionals and students. What is DEI? What diversity, equity and inclusion does is it is a mechanism that opens the door for me that your fathers or your grandfathers or somebody down the road opened for you," Sen. Rod Hickman, D-Macon, said on the Senate floor in February. Sen. Nicole Akins Boyd, R-Oxford, sits down before the Medicaid expansion conference committee meeting began at the Mississippi State Capitol in downtown Jackson on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The Senate and House deliberated but did not come to an agreement. Senate passes DEI ban: DEI ban passes MS Senate. See who will be impacted DEI in the past was pegged as a method to ensure minority populations and underrepresented groups were not held back from both professional and educational opportunities. In recent years, those policies have come under attack by state and national Republicans, who have labeled DEI discriminatory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DEI opponents have also argued the policies force identity politics and education on students, putting groups of people into discriminatory labels. There are some groups and acts, including disabled students and veterans, any scholarly research and student organizations, that are exempt from the legislation seeking to ban DEI policies and activities. Some concepts such as gender identity will also be removed from education policy and curriculums, which fall in line with a statewide effort to align national GOP practices. When the House and Senate first proposed their bills, there was a big difference in how DEI ban policies would be reported and enforced. The House initially pushed for a process where state funding could be suspended for schools or universities that were reported to be in violation of the new law, as well as a method for litigation against that institution. The Senate preferred a more in-house approach, allowing for any violation to be dealt with internally at first, with a task force committee to study education efficiency attached to the bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House passes DEI ban: MS House passes DEI ban. See who would be impacted Both chambers eventually compromised and the legislation now allows for an internal review process of any DEI ban violations and people can sue only after that review has been completed. That review period lasts 25 days for the school or college to "reverse" whatever DEI or DEI-adjacent activity that has been reported, and people could only sue after that. They could also ask the state attorney general's office to sue on their behalf if they do not agree with any findings in a report produced at the end of that 25-day review period. Trump ban on DEI in federal government The DEI ban comes on the heels of the Trump administration's efforts to ban DEI within the federal government and within education. Since his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump has been firm that eliminating DEI is a priority for his team and himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year Republicans in both chambers have worked to eliminate DEI after state colleges had been amending many of their DEI policies to fall in line with national GOP trends. It also happened to one of only a few legislative priorities that made it out of the 2025 session. Lawmakers on Wednesday and Thursday gaveled out the session early after they could not come to an agreement on the state's $7 billion budget. Republican Gov. Tate Reeves said on Thursday afternoon he plans to call a special session to fund the coming fiscal year, which begins on July 1. Grant McLaughlin covers the Legislature and state government for the Clarion Ledger. He can be reached at gmclaughlin@gannett.com or 972-571-2335. This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: DEI bans pass MS Legislature SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A motion by the Utah State School Board that sought to remove remaining Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in Utah schools has failed after members of the board couldnt come to an agreement on the resolutions language and effects. Voting 4 to 10, members of the board had expressed concerns regarding the resolutions impact on existing programs and the language used within the resolution. The board reported during the meeting that several members had received hundreds of emails regarding the resolution, including concerns over how the resolution would affect programs like Latinos in Action and special needs programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think we have overwhelmingly heard from those that care deeply across the state about programs that are impacted and targeted by this language, Sarah Reale (D District 5), member of the Utah School Board. Do we believe there is a space or language that would actually be acceptable and be something that the public would approve of? To me, we already have a law in place. We dont need this resolution, there are better things we can be working on right now. PREVIOUS: USBE cites communism in new resolution to remove DEI The resolution, sponsored by Christina Boggess (R District 8), sought to be an enforcement resolution for laws that were passed by the State Legislature in the 2024 General Session. It used language saying DEI was attempting to achieve the Soviet Communist goal of actual equality, and used ethnic minorities to advance communism in society. I am sure that I will offend some of you. However, this resolution is nonsense, Jeanetta Williams, President of the Salt Lake Branch NAACP, said in a letter addressed to the school board. American DEI grew from US domestic politics, not soviet thinking. Passing the resolution with the Soviet reference would be an embarrassment to the State of Utah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter penned by Williams also expressed concerns over the vagueness of the resolution. Saying that it had not listed specific programs, thus the resolution could confuse local school districts in their application of the resolution. In an amended version of the resolution, shown at the board meeting, language was added to affirm individual rights and to clarify that the resolution wouldnt affect special education programs. After the motion failed, several measures followed to postpone the measure to next months meeting, or to postpone voting on the measure indefinitely. Both motions failed. A further measure to send a response to those who had contacted the board regarding the measure failed as well. The meeting moved to lunch and the measure was not revisited. It is currently unclear whether the board will return to the issue. In speaking with a representative of the board, ABC4.com was told that significant changes would have to be made to the resolution to be heard again by the board. Otherwise, the board would have to vote to reconsider their action in a future meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Twenty-one Democratic state attorneys general sued President Trump Friday over his executive order that aims to eliminate seven federal agencies. The suit focuses on three of those agencies the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Minority Business Development Agency and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service claiming the closures violate the separation of powers. President Trump is leading a campaign to dismantle vast swaths of the federal government. He has directed agencies to freeze the expenditure of funds appropriated by Congress, orchestrated the mass firings of federal probationary employees without following the requisite statutory procedures, and ordered agency after agency established by Congress to be shut down, the complaint reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But whatever the Presidents policy preferences, he cannot override the congressional enactments that authorize federal agencies, appropriate funds for them to administer, and define how they must operate, it continues. Trump signed the order March 14, directing the seven entities to be eliminated to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law and report compliance within seven days. Multiple lawsuits have already challenged the dismantling of one of the targets, the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which is the parent company of Voice of America. But the new lawsuit is the first challenge to the efforts at some of the other agencies, which provide funding to libraries, museums, minority-owned businesses and mediation services for labor disputes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Filed in federal court in Rhode Island, it was assigned to U.S. District Judge John McConnell, an appointee of former President Obama who has already drawn the ire of Trumps allies for ruling against the administration in an existing lawsuit concerning freezes in federal grants. In a statement, White House spokesperson Harrison Fields said, the Democrats continue to show their disdain for the Constitution. The attorneys general said the closures threaten hundreds of millions of dollars worth of grant funding to their states already appropriated by Congress. Those appropriations pay for the agencies to continue operating at full strength through the end of the fiscal year. The Executive may not decline to spend those funds by slashing the agencies staff to the bare minimum, shuttering most of their offices and programs, and refusing to use or disburse the money that Congress appropriated, the complaint reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The coalition is co-led by Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha (D), New York Attorney General Letitia James (D) and Hawaii Attorney General Anne Lopez, who is a Democrat, though the office is technically nonpartisan. The other states suing are Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin. It marks the third time in 24 hours that Democratic-led states have sued the Trump administration. Attorneys general sued earlier in the day over cuts to research grants, and on Thursday, a group of states sued over Trumps executive order aimed at strengthening proof-of-citizenship requirements to vote. Updated at 4:17 p.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WASHINGTON Democratic attorneys general in 16 states led by New York sued the Trump administration Friday over its cancelation of National Institutes of Health research grants the group called critical for life-saving medical research. The NIH began terminating tens of millions of grants in March based on President Donald Trumps orders to abolish diversity, equity and inclusion programs, according to the federal lawsuit filed in Massachusetts. Letters terminating grants said they targeted DEI, transgender issues, or vaccine hesitancy, the lawsuit said. Once again, the Trump administration is putting politics before public health and risking lives and livelihoods in the process, New York Attorney General Letitia James said in a statement. Millions of Americans depend on our nations research institutions for treatments and cures to the diseases that devastate families every day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case was filed the same week the Department of Health and Human Services laid off 10,000 more workers as part of a move to cut nearly one-fourth of its staff to reduce government spending. The lawsuit from the states asks the courts to restore the grant funding and ensure the government uses lawful procedures in determining funding. The Association of American Medical Colleges and the American Public Health Association each sued NIH in February over terminating research grants, and a group of 22 states previously sued NIH over capping the overhead on research. Canceled grants funded research into Alzheimer's, substance abuse, HIV Rita Roberts does research on skin wound healing in a lab in the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition at the University of Illinois Chicago on March 5, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois. Researchers at universities around the country, who rely on federal grants from the National Institutes of Health to fund their research, are concerned about the future of their projects after the Trump administration cut funding for indirect costs that help universities to operate the research labs. In New York, NIH has terminated more than $4.5 million in research grants for the State University of New York. The cancelled grants include projects on Alzheimers disease in Asian and Latino Americans, substance abuse risks for LGBTQ+ youth and HIV treatment in Ghana. In termination letters, NIH arbitrarily claimed these were DEI studies and stated that the projects were incompatible with agency priorities, and no modification of the project could align the project with agency priorities, the suit said. Critical medical research 'in jeopardy': lawsuit The NIH is the largest public funder of medical research in the world and is responsible for life-saving vaccines that have eradicated several diseases, biomedical discoveries that have reduced the risk of certain cancers, and life-extending treatments for illnesses that were previously a death sentence, like HIV and AIDS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NIHs $37 billion in awards last year spurred more than $94 billion in new economic activity, according to the lawsuit, and the investments supported more than 400,000 jobs nationwide. That critical work is now in jeopardy, the lawsuit said. Trump ordered end to DEI programs on first day back in office Trump signed an executive order on his first day back in office Jan. 20 to end DEI programs across the government. "Americans deserve a government committed to serving every person with equal dignity and respect, and to expending precious taxpayer resources only on making America great," Trump's order said. The lawsuit suit names Robert Kennedy, the secretary of Health and Human Services, and a number of NIH agencies as defendants such as the National Cancer Institute, National Eye Institute and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Rita Roberts does research on skin wound healing in a lab in the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition at the University of Illinois Chicago on March 5, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. Researchers at universities around the country, who rely on federal grants from the National Institutes of Health to fund their research, are concerned about the future of their projects after the Trump administration cut funding for indirect costs that help universities to operate the research labs. In letters terminating grant funding, NIH said projects were DEI studies that were incompatible with agency priorities, and no modification of the project could align the project with agency priorities. But the letters provided no factual basis for these claims nor any insight on new agency priorities, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides shutting down research indefinitely, delays in NIH funding postponed future studies and forced researchers to abandon projects and lose key personnel, according to the lawsuit. Besides New York, the state attorneys general who brought the lawsuit are from Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, and Wisconsin. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: States sue RFK Jr., National Institutes of Health over 'DEI' research DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, April 4. Tajikistan aims to further expand exports of its products to European markets, the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, said at the EU-Central Asia summit in Samarkand, Trend reports via the press service of the head of state. We aim to further expand exports of Tajik producers' products to European markets, including through the use of mutual trade preferences, Rahmon said. The President noted that the progressive development of relations with the EU, both bilaterally and multilaterally, is one of the priorities of Tajikistan's foreign policy. He emphasized that the Roadmap for deepening relations between Central Asia and the European Union has become a key document regulating the expansion of interregional cooperation and interconnectivity. In his address, Rahmon also noted Tajikistan's significant natural resources and the potential of its industrial, energy, and agricultural sectors. According to him, Tajikistan is interested in attracting investments, introducing new technologies, and the experience of European companies in this sector. Nineteen Democratic attorneys general sued Thursday over President Trumps executive order that aims to strengthen proof of citizenship requirements in voting and prevent states from tabulating mail-in ballots received after Election Day. The new lawsuit adds to three existing cases filed by the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and separate coalitions of private groups, who accuse Trump of going beyond his authority and violating the separation of powers. It bears emphasizing: the President has no power to do any of this, the states complaint reads. Neither the Constitution nor Congress has authorized the President to impose documentary proof of citizenship requirements or to modify State mail-ballot procedures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps order, signed March 25, directs the attorney general to target states that count absentee or mail-in ballots that are received after Election Day, a practice that conservatives have increasingly targeted in recent years. Court battles over whether it is legal commenced long before Trumps inauguration. The president also directed that the federal mail voter registration form and the postcard application used by voters overseas require citizenship proof of citizenship. If instead Plaintiff States choose not to comply with the Presidents blatantly unconstitutional attempt to legislate-by-fiat, they will suffer severe cuts in federal funding that will throw the national electoral system into disarray. The Framers carefully crafted a federal compact that protects the States from this Hobsons choice, the lawsuit states. The White House has previously pushed back on the legal challenges, saying Trumps order is an effort to protect the integrity of American elections and that Democrats continue to show their disdain for the Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Led by California and Nevada, the states suing are Massachusetts, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. The new case adds to three separate challenges filed earlier this week that include plaintiffs like the DNC, the NAACP and the League of United Latin American Citizens. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Democratic group focused on downballot races said Thursday that it hauled more than $600,000 in the first quarter of 2025. In a Thursday press release, the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State (DASS) said the first quarter gains, beyond double the groups first quarter funds raised in 2023, shows substantial growth in grassroots support and donor engagement. Americans see Donald Trump and the GOPs assault on democracy for what it is and theyre ready to stop it, Andrew Godinich, DASSs executive director, said in the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From big wins in Wisconsin to surging donor enthusiasm in 2025, the message is clear: democracy wins, Godinich added. With historic support from voters nationwide, DASS is ready to break records this cycle. On Tuesday, liberal candidate Susan Crawford secured victory over conservative candidate Brad Schimel in a Wisconsin Supreme Court race. Crawfords win marked a notable success for Democrats, who backed her in the race, and a setback for President Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, who supported Schimel. Wisconsin, commonly considered a battleground state, went for Trump in 2024 and former President Biden in 2020. Musk minimized the Wisconsin results in an early Wednesday post on the social platform X, saying that he had expected to lose. The tech billionaire had previously said the race could determine the future of America and Western Civilization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DASS said Thursday that it, alongside other groups it is linked with, is on the way to topping a 2022 midterm cycle record of $32 million in fundraising with the new $600,000 first-quarter gains. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 7.62X39mm round sits next a a 30-round magazine and an AK-47 with a bump stock installed at Good Guys Gun and Range in Orem, Utah, on Feb. 21, 2018. (George Frey/Getty Images) Lawmakers were split on what to do with a proposal to ban the possession of large-capacity magazines, defined as having more than 10 rounds of ammunition. During a work session Thursday evening, Rep. David Sinclair (D-Bath) asked the bill sponsor if it would defeat the intent of the bill to focus on the trafficking of those magazines and increase the limit to 20 rounds, rather than criminalize possession. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead of making the substantial progress I would hope to make with the bill, that would be incremental progress, said Rep. Matthew Beck (D-South Portland), who introduced LD 1109 to address what he described as a common denominator among many of the deadliest mass shootings. The Legislatures Judiciary Committee was divided on the bill, with seven members voting against it, including two Democrats, and five supporting amended versions. Two members were absent for the vote. The majority of Democrats on the committee were split between Sinclairs proposal to focus on trafficking and an amendment from committee co-chair Sen. Anne Carney (D-Cumberland) to mimic Vermont law by limiting magazines to 10 rounds for long guns and 15 for handguns. Carneys changes would also provide a way to grandfather in magazines people already lawfully own. Becks version of the bill would apply retroactively to magazines people currently own and give them 180 days to dispose of or alter them to meet the new requirements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to questions about how the state would determine which guns would be grandfathered in, Carney added language requiring Maine State Police to develop a process. Two other Democrats joined Carney on her amended proposal. While Carney said she is sympathetic to the concerns about criminalizing items people purchased legally, Rep. Jennifer Poirier (R-Skowhegan) criticized the bill for penalizing law-abiding citizens. She argued that people with ill intent will find a way to possess illegal firearms, regardless of what laws are on the books. Rep. Dylan Pugh (D-Portland), who was the only member to back the amendment proposed by Sinclair, pushed back on the argument that focusing on trafficking wouldnt stop mass shootings and said that criminalizing guns that people already own would be an overly-broad encroachment of ones rights. The committee also worked on bills related to the definition of machine guns and requiring serial numbers on ghost guns, but those were tabled for further discussion without a vote. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Democratic attorneys general in 16 states led by New York and Massachusetts sued the Trump administration Friday over the cancellation of millions of dollars in National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants for medical research. In March, the NIH began to terminate millions of dollars in grant funding for previously approved research projects, including projects focused on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), LGBTQ health, and vaccine hesitancy, on the basis that the projects no longer align with NIH priorities. But the agency did not define these terms or explain how they apply to the terminated research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, the coalition challenged the administrations abrupt, unjustified, and illegal decision to revoke these funds as well as the NIHs suspension of the grant approval process. Massachusetts is the medical research capital of the country. Not only do our public research institutions rely on NIH funding for their groundbreaking research, job creation and academic competitiveness, but our residents depend on these studies to propel lifesaving medical advancements, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell said in a statement. I wont allow the Trump Administration to take unlawful actions that play politics with our public health. By law, the NIH provides much of its support for scientific research and training in the form of grants to outside institutions. Since January, however, the administration has engaged in a concerted, and multi-pronged effort to disrupt NIHs grants, the lawsuit alleges. Those efforts have taken the form of across-the-board delays in the review and approval of otherwise-fundable grant applications and widespread terminations of already issued grants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collectively, the states involved in the lawsuit are awaiting decisions on billions of dollars in requested research funding, including millions of dollars in funding for projects that have already gotten the green light from NIH reviewers. Typically, NIH grant applications must undergo two layers of review: by a study section of subject-matter experts who assess the scientific merit of the proposal and by an advisory council that considers funding availability and agency priorities. Since January, the administration has canceled upcoming meetings for both of these review bodies and has delayed the scheduling of future meetings. The lawsuit from the states asks the courts to restore the grant funding and ensure the government uses lawful procedures in determining funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was filed against the NIH and its director, Jay Bhattacharya, as well as the Department of Human and Health Services and its secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. It follows a similar lawsuit filed earlier this week by a coalition of health researchers, unions and other stakeholders. That lawsuit was also filed in Massachusetts, making it likely they will be combined. Once again, the Trump administration is putting politics before public health and risking lives and livelihoods in the process, New York Attorney General Letitia James said in a statement. Millions of Americans depend on our nations research institutions for treatments and cures to the diseases that devastate families every day. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. ALLENDALE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) Two men were seriously hurt when a van and semi-truck collided in Allendale Friday, deputies say. The crash happened at the intersection of 64th Avenue and Pierce Street around 10 a.m. The Ottawa County Sheriffs Office says the van was driven by a 26-year-old man from Wyoming who did not yield to the semi, which had the right of way. The driver of the van and a 26-year-old passenger from Saranac were seriously hurt and taken to a local hospital, deputies said. The 50-year-old driver of the truck was not injured, deputies said. The crash is under investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. DES MOINES, Iowa A Des Moines native is back in the metro to premiere his new movie titled Bob Trevino Likes It. Its based on a true story of friendship that the writer and director of the film found with a stranger while looking for her father on social media. Roosevelt High School alum Edgar Rosa produced the movie and spoke with students at Central Campus about how he got involved with the project. For Sale: The biggest house in Polk County Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And they were looking for someone whos good at logistics and budgeting and thats my specialty. So it sort of we became like the perfect match, the perfect three-headed monster. And shot it in 2023 during the SAG strike, which was crazy. And fortunately had a very successful festival run in 2024, and its in its wide release this weekend, said Rosa. Rosa will be introducing the film at the Varsity Cinema in Des Moines. Friday nights tickets are sold out, but there are still some available for Saturday. The movie will also be playing at the movie theater at Jordan Creek through next week. Rosa says the movies themes of connection and chosen family feel full circle as he returns home to Des Moines from LA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I found a wonderful chosen family in the broadcasting and film here, and my drama troupe at Roosevelt, and through the artistic community whether it was the Des Moines Playhouse or Heartland Youth Choir. I was really able to have very many chosen families and I think this film really highlights and celebrates those people, Rosa said. You can check out the movies trailer and find showtimes here. Metro news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. A look back at local, national and world events through Deseret News archives. On April 3, 1968, civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. delivered what was to be his final speech, telling a rally of striking sanitation workers in Memphis, Tennessee, Ive been to the mountaintop. ... Ive seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land! The following day, on April 4, King Jr., 39, was shot and killed while standing on a balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kings death triggered a wave of unrest in cities across the United States that killed 43 people and injured more than 3,000. James Earl Ray, a career small-time criminal who became the object of a more than two-month manhunt before he was captured in England, pled guilty to the shooting and received a 99-year prison sentence. Though Ray recanted his plea and spent the rest of his life claiming that he had been framed by a conspiracy that was really responsible for Kings assassination, it remains the official ruling. Kings civil rights legacy continues on to this day. Here are some stories from Deseret News archives about the civil rights leader and his many accomplishments: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Visiting Memphis 50 years after Kings assassination 1968: Historians see year as turning point Slaying of King remembered The ghosts of 1968 Hosea Williams, Jesse Jackson, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph Abernathy stand on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tenn., on April 3, 1968, the day before King was shot. King was in Memphis to support striking sanitation workers. | Associated Press 1968: Turbulent year brought changes and headlines that shocked America Trump issues order to declassify JFK files in 15 days, MLK Jr., RFK files to follow Weapons experts begin tests on gun in King assassination Kings visits to Utah are chronicled Did Rays brothers play role in Kings assassination? Opinion: Black history and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In this Sunday, April 8, 1968, file photo, Coretta Scott King, third right, is accompanied by her children, Yolanda, Bernice, Martin III, and Dexter at Sisters Chapel on the campus of Spellman College in Atlanta. Martin Luther King Jr.'s family joined thousands of mourners who filed by the casket of the civil rights leader. | Jack Thornell Rumeysa Ozturk, the Tufts University student brazenly abducted by masked immigration agents on a public street in Massachusetts, is suffering serious health issues in Homeland Security custody. Representative Ayanna Pressley, whose district includes the university, posted on Bluesky Thursday night that Ozturk has had three separate asthma attacks in custody while being denied access to her required medications, a violation of her fundamental right to medical care. This is cruelty, it is neglect, and it is a damning moral and legal failure, Pressleys post said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ozturk, a doctoral student on Fulbright scholarship, was allegedly detained for engaging in activities in support of Hamas, a DHS spokesperson said last week without offering any evidence supporting that charge. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also refused to offer any explanation of why Ozturk was detained without a court order or access to legal counsel, attacking the student for coming into the U.S. as a visitor and creating a ruckus for us. Rubio claims to have revoked the visas of more than 300 international students so far, with no word on whether the State Department, DHS, or Immigration and Customs Enforcement is following due process. Tufts University has offered its support to Ozturk, making a declaration before the U.S. District Court in Massachusetts seeking relief so that Ms Ozturk is released without delay so that she can return to complete her studies and finish her degree. Meanwhile, Ozturk continues to be held in an ICE facility in Louisiana without access to her medication as her attorneys seek to have her transferred back to Massachusetts. True relief, however, will only come if she is granted due process, released from custody, and given the chance to address the allegations against her, if they even have any merit. Detroit's Police and Fire Retirement System beneficiaries can expect to receive improved pension benefits, thanks for a federal bankruptcy judges ruling. Judge Thomas Tucker, U.S. Bankruptcy Court Eastern District of Michigan, ruled in favor of the citys motion to increase contributions for the Detroit Police and Fire Retirement System after a lone creditor filed an objection to modify the combined plan for the police and fire retirement system. Tuckers ruling indicates the city is authorized to amend the plan. Pensioners have been operating under the Plan of Adjustment since the 2014 exit from municipal bankruptcy. The city and unions negotiated to enhance benefits, which will cost the city about $5 million annually in pension contributions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good news is that payments due to pensioners under this modification will be made retroactive to July 1, 2024, said Jeffrey Pegg, chairman of the Police and Fire Retirement System, in a statement. Meaning, if an employee retired after July 1, 2024, they would still qualify for the benefits, Pegg added. Pensioners affected by the bankruptcy who currently work are still severely harmed in regards to their pensions, Pegg said. Susan Tompor: Seniors now worrying if one day they won't get their Social Security money on time Opinion: Mike Duggan can't claim sole credit for Detroit's amazing recovery Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The message thats missing out there in the public is that because of the legacy plan being frozen thats what they call it, frozen and the new plan people that are still in the job get into, putting those two plans together is what my pension is based on. The legacy and the new plan. And when you put those two things together, my pension when I retire is reduced by about 30%, if not more. The courts ruling and retroactive benefits are a separate issue from the city supplemental payment, otherwise known as the 13th check, which will be issued to retirees who lost money in the bankruptcy next month. The check estimate is about $466 to be paid to retirees covered by the General Retirement System and about $653 for retirees covered by the Detroit Police and Fire Retirement System. The point of these negotiations were to try help those police officers and firefighters that have been here for years before the bankruptcy and the years after the bankruptcy, Pegg told the Free Press. It benefits those members that were here during the bankruptcy, the people that were hired before 2014 before these benefit changes, the percentage I would get at retirement was even less. But with these improvements, it increases that percentage a small, tiny little bit. It does enhance your pension that youll get for the rest of your life by maybe about 5 or 6% and with us not getting Social Security and retirement, or retiree health care, every little bit helps. The Police and Fire Retirement System of the City of Detroit board oversees a $2.7 billion fund serving about 8,000 retired police and fire, and approximately 3,000 active duty first responders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will still be trying to improve benefits for those who were hired and impacted by the bankruptcy that are still working today, and also for the new hires and active members. Well be working on improving pension benefits for them, Pegg said. Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact: dafana@freepress.com. Follow her: @DanaAfana. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Pension benefits to boost for Detroit Police and Fire Retirement System Apr. 3LIMA Child Abuse Awareness Month is, as the name indicates, centered around deplorable actions taken by adults against children, subjecting the most vulnerable to abuse and neglect. However, there is more to this month than just speaking out against child abuse. On Thursday, Allen County Children Services took time to celebrate those working to help victimized children and those who are overcoming their past to rebuild their families. The celebration centered around the Community For Kids Luncheon on Thursday at Ohio Means Jobs Allen County, an event attended by representatives of numerous area and state agencies as well as Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, who was honored as one of the winners of the Friends of Children Award, an honor given to individuals and organizations going above and beyond to protect vulnerable children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In 2o24, one in 13 children in our county were served by Allen County Children Services due to abuse and neglect," Allen County Children Services Executive Director Sarah Newland said. "It is all of you in this room that have ensured that these children are not just a number or a statistic, but are young lives that matter and deserve to be protected." DeWine was honored for his efforts to support children services agencies throughout the state in areas such as foster care, kinship care and adoption services, as well as advocating for victimized children during his time as a prosecutor and legislator, both at the state and federal level. "Many times, children's issues are ignored. There's not much constituency there. They don't vote," he said. "We worry about those that are making the most noise, and kids sometimes aren't paid attention to. So I tried to look around during my career and figure out where I can make a difference." With the Ohio General Assembly working on forming the next state biennial budget, DeWine asked those in attendance to advocate for children's programs when reaching out to their legislators, including some proposals that DeWine has made in this area. These include a $1,000 tax credit for lower-income working families for every child under the age of 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They can use that money for groceries, they can use for help in regard to childcare to help parents who are working, for example," DeWine said. "It will really help these families who are our working poor. They're out there. They're hustling, and they're doing everything they can to support their family." Others honored at the lunch included Kerri Kelly, the winner of the Family of the Year Award. Kelly was honored for her work in overcoming substance addiction and becoming part of her children's lives again while also obtaining an education to become a certified medical dependency counselor. Other winners of the Friends of Children Award were: George Cox, Spencerville VFW Clown Unit Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dave and Barb Rasor, builders of bunk beds for children in the system Carole Enneking, Coordinator for the Allen County Family and Children First Council Jill Ackerman, Lima schools superintendent Kara Wente, director, Ohio Department of Children and Youth Featured Local Savings DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, April 4. The president of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon highly appreciated the assistance of the EU in creating infrastructure for the transmission of electricity to South Asia through the CASA-1000 transmission line, Trend reports via the press service of the head of state. According to information, he said at the EU-Central Asia Summit in Samarkand. For Tajikistan, the energy sector, namely renewable energy sources, which includes hydropower, is relevant not only to meet national socio-economic needs, but also to further develop regional cooperation, Emomali Rahmon said. Rahmon emphasized that the EU is successfully involved in the implementation of the Nurek, Sebzor and Kairakkum hydropower projects in Tajikistan. The President also noted that Tajikistan plans to increase the share of electricity produced from solar and wind sources to 10 percent of the total electricity production in the country by 2030. We intend, based on the Strategy for the Development of Green Economy, to ensure full production of electricity from renewable sources in the country by 2032, and to turn Tajikistan into a green country by 2037, Rahmon noted. The President also reminded that the first High Level International Conference on Glacier Protection is scheduled to be held in Dushanbe at the end of May this year. Under the CASA-1000 project, green electricity will be exported in summer from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The total cost of the project is more than $1.2 billion. CASA-1000 is financed by the World Bank, European Investment Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Islamic Development Bank, and other international partners. The construction works under the CASA-1000 project in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan were completed in 2025. Construction works are also expected to be completed in Pakistan in August 2025 and in Afghanistan in 2027. Senate President Bobby Joe Champion, DFL-Minneapolis, Rep Ruth Richardson, DFL-Mendota Heights, Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic, DFL-Minneapolis, Gov. Tim Walz, and other elected officials hold a press conference to mark the first annual state Juneteenth holiday. Photo by Senate Media Services. On March 24, Minnesota Senate President Bobby Joe Champion, DFL-Minneapolis, introduced a bill (SF2978) providing a $1 million grant to 21 Days of Peace, a violence prevention group headed by the Rev. Jerry McAfee. Sitting next to McAfee at a Jobs and Economic Development hearing on April 2, Champion praised the pastors group as an organization dedicated to reducing violence and supporting individuals re-entering the workforce and providing holistic, culturally responsive services to at-risk youth and adults. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What neither Champion nor McAfee mentioned during the hearing: Starting in 2022, Champion, in his private capacity as an attorney, represented McAfee and his nonprofit Salem Inc. in four court cases involving nonpayment of mortgages on multiple Minneapolis properties, totaling roughly half a million dollars. That period overlaps with the 2023-24 legislative session, when lawmakers gave a $3 million grant to McAfees nonprofit. Champion was the chief author of that bill as well. Champion says that his work on the mortgage cases was pro-bono, and that because it concluded in December 2022, prior to the start of the legislative session, he did not need to disclose the relationship to the public or to his colleagues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There would be no need to disclose a work relationship which had already concluded at that time, and which provides no financial benefit to me, he said through a spokesperson. But at least two of the cases did not have final judgments issued until March or April of 2023, which Champion says was the result of the plaintiffs timing. By that time, Champion had introduced the funding bill and lawmakers held a hearing on it. McAfee, in an interview with the Reformer, refused to say whether he paid Champion for his legal services: I wont answer that, he said. Is there something on the books that would prevent me from hiring him as an attorney? Champion says he keeps records of his pro-bono clients, but declined to share the relevant portions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Richard Painter, a University of Minnesota Law School professor who was the chief White House ethics lawyer under President George W. Bush, said Champions actions represent a clear conflict of interest. Nobody should sponsor a bill in the Legislature favoring a client, pro-bono or not, it doesnt matter, he said. Its a basic principle that in a legislative body, if there is a bill thats going to help your client, you say, This is my client. Champion said through a spokesman that the Senate rules dont forbid his move to help a legal client. It is entirely inappropriate for a legislator to request state funding for an organization they are also representing in court even if the work is pro bono, said Senate Republican Leader Mark Johnson, R.-East Grand Forks. Any potential conflict of interest, or even the appearance of one, should be fully disclosed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In December 2023, after Champion successfully spearheaded the effort to steer $3 million to McAfees nonprofit, McAfee and his wife each donated $1,000 to Champions campaign committee, the maximum allowed under state law. Legal troubles Certificate of Representation showing Sen. Bobby Joe Champion as the attorney for Jerry McAfee and Salem Inc. in a 2022 court case. In the spring and early summer of 2022, McAfee and his nonprofit Salem Inc. were sued by multiple creditors alleging mortgage nonpayment on four Minneapolis properties, totaling nearly half a million dollars. McAfee says the mortgage issues stemmed from his work helping people in his community obtain housing. One of the things I do is I put people in homes, he said. I certainly dont make the best business decisions. But if I have to sacrifice myself to get people in houses, Id do it all over again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Champion represented McAfee and Salem on the cases. In September 2022, all parties agreed to have the disputes mediated by a third-party law firm. Champion says his work on the cases concluded in December 2022, before the start of the legislative session. But final notices of dismissal of the cases werent issued until February 6, 2023. Final judgments were filed between February 8 and April 18. Champion introduced the bill steering $3 million to McAfees organization on March 16, and presented it to the Jobs and Economic Development Committee on March 20. At that hearing, Champion spoke in glowing terms about the work McAfees organization was doing. He did not mention his work representing McAfee in court. In response to a question from Sen. Rich Draheim, R-Madison Lake, Champion said that the Senate bill had a companion in the House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But no companion bill is listed on the Office of the Revisors website. The funding was nevertheless included in the final jobs bill that passed that year. Another request for funding Champion is listed as the attorney for McAfee and Salem Inc. on three additional cases filed in May 2023 involving some of the same properties. Several of those cases show filings through 2024 and 2025. But Champion says he never worked on them, and that hes listed due to an error by the plaintiffs attorney, who assumed he was still representing McAfee. When a separate matter was filed in 2023, the plaintiffs attorney initially listed me as defense counsel on the presumption I was still active in that role, Champion said. However, I communicated to that attorney that I was not working for the defense, and did no work on the subsequent case. In recent months, the city of Minneapolis pulled a violence prevention contract issued to McAfees nonprofit after City Council members alleged he threatened them and made homophobic remarks, and two of McAfees violence interrupters were charged over their involvement in a north Minneapolis shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McAfee has maintained the violence interrupters were acting in self-defense. Those recent controversies were enough to prompt Republican lawmakers to ask pointed questions at this months hearing for the additional $1 million in funding for McAfees group. Champion defended McAfees actions toward the Minneapolis City Council. He did not mention his previous legal work on McAfees behalf. A group of legislators from both parties recently urged their colleagues to end the practice of steering grants to favored nonprofit groups, citing a lack of oversight and accountability. In 2014, Republicans in the Senate filed an ethics complaint against Champion, in part over his work as an attorney representing a community member who founded a nonprofit that received grant funding from the Minneapolis School District. They alleged that Champion threatened to withhold state aid from the school district if it did not award the grant to his clients organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Senate Subcommittee on Ethical Conduct deadlocked over whether or not to pursue those allegations. I vehemently deny the allegations of the anonymous source whose allegation inspired that complaint, and was vindicated when the ethics subcommittee found insufficient evidence to proceed, Champion said. The current chair of that subcommittee is Sen. Bobby Joe Champion. Getty Images The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services on Thursday launched a program to help nurses repay their student loans and to assist employers in recruiting and retaining nursing staff as facilities across the state face staffing shortages. The Nurse Loan Repayment Program will provide up to $300,000 in tax-free funds to successful applicants to repay student debt for up to four years for those working at state psychiatric facilities or up to 10 years for individuals working at other eligible sites. There is about $9 million in funding available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Applicants will compete for two-year agreements from the program, and are required to work a minimum of 40 hours per week for no less than 45 weeks per year at eligible nonprofit practice sites that provide nursing services. Full-time for nurses in public school settings or who teach at a school of nursing are also eligible. Nurses are the backbone of the health care system, providing essential care to patients in hospitals, clinics, schools and homes, DHHS director Elizabeth Hertel said in a statement. They are often the first point of contact for patients and play a critical role in patient education, advocacy and support. Health care facilities across the state are facing nursing shortages and this loan repayment program will help providers recruit and retain nurses to provide vital care to patients. According to the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration 74 of Michigans 83 counties are experiencing a shortage of primary care providers in at least part of the county. Nurses applying for the program must hold an active license as either a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse. Nurses looking to apply to the program must also: Hold U.S. citizenship. Be committed to providing nursing services in an underserved community, priority site or teaching at a Michigan School of Nursing. Have an agreement of employment at a non-profit practice site, with a start date no later than Oct. 1 following the current application period, before applying for the loan repayment program. Confirm their employers will support their agreements since employers are required to continue employing the applicant during their two-year agreement. Remain with their current employer throughout their two-year loan repayment agreement. Learn and comply with the programs requirements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employers may not use payments from the Nurse Loan Repayment Program to offset participating employees salaries or other aspects of their compensation packages. Applications and further information are available at Michigan.gov/NLRP. The deadline is Wednesday, June 4. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX HONOLULU (KHON2) The embattled Department of Human Services, which oversees Child Welfare Services, has a new director. KHON2 sat down with Ryan Yamane to discuss the new program that he believes will help them provide more oversight and assistance to keiki in foster care. Officials call on DHS to take action amid disturbing child abuse cases I learned a lot in regards to being grounded and focused on listening to people, determining what was in their best interest and trying to find creative ways to address those needs, said Yamane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Child Welfare Services has come under fire in recent years after six-year-old Isabella Ariel Khlua was allegedly tortured and murdered by her adoptive parents in 2021. In 2024, police arrested the legal guardians of nine-year-old Geanna Bradley for allegedly torturing and starving her to death. Both little girls were placed in the homes by CWS. Yamane said what happened is disturbing and unacceptable and he hopes to re-establish the publics trust and prevent anything from ever happening like this again. Last week, DHS launched a brand new statewide program called Kakoo. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You That program is focused on supporting our foster kids and our foster parents. Theyre actually going to go out during nights and weekends to check in on our kids. Its a wellness visit, Yamane explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that the step comes after Governor Green asked DHS to make sure they make priorities for our keiki. The kakoo visits will be unannounced and will be in addition to the regularly scheduled monthly visits. Its not an investigation. Its a Hey, wellness, how you doing? and talk with the kids so the kids know that we are around. That they can reach out to us at any time. Yamane said DHS is still short-staffed and is actively trying to recruit trained social workers. Check out more news from around Hawaii With this program, I asked for staff to volunteer outside their work hours. Im very proud to say that weve had over 60 staff statewide volunteering, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the first phase of Kakoo. DHS plans to expand it to include visits to kids that are adopted and said everyone is eager to be part of the program because they believe in the mission and protecting Hawaiis keiki. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A major storm took hold across swaths of the central and southern United States on Wednesday unleashing extreme flooding and huge tornadoes from Arkansas up to Michigan. And conditions are expected to worsen on Friday as soils become saturated and water piles up: The National Weather Service is warning of a life-threatening, catastrophic, and potentially historic flash flood event, along with a risk of very large hail and more twisters. Eight people are so far confirmed dead, while 33 million are under flood watches across 11 states. While scientists will need to do proper research to suss out exactly how much climate change is contributing to these storms, whats known as an attribution study, they can say generally how planetary warming might worsen an event like this. Its not necessarily that climate change created this storm it could have happened independent of all the extra carbon that humanity has pumped into the atmosphere but there are some clear trends making rainfall worse. In a world without the burning of fossil fuels, this event would happen once in a lifetime thats kind of what the National Weather Service is saying, said Marc Alessi, a climate science fellow at the Massachusetts-based Union of Concerned Scientists. But with the burning of fossil fuels, with more heat-trapping emissions, with a warming planet, this event will become more frequent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rainfall is changing because Earth sweats. When the sun evaporates water off Earths surface, that moisture rises into the atmosphere, condenses, and falls as rain. But greenhouse gases trap heat up there, so the planet sweats more in response. In other words, it strikes an energy balance. A warmer atmosphere also gets thirstier: For every 1 degree Celsius of warming, the air can hold 6 to 7 percent more water. That means more moisture is available to fall as rain: This weekend, the slow-moving storm is forecasted to dump as much as 15 inches of rainfall in some areas. The sponge, which is the atmosphere in this case, will become bigger, which allows the sponge to hold more water and carry it from oceans farther inland, Alessi said. That could be tied into this event here. The body of water in question here is the Gulf of Mexico. An outbreak of tornadoes and heavy rain is typical for this time of year as warming waters send moisture into the southern and central United States. And at the moment, the Gulf of Mexico is exceptionally warm. Theres a lot more fuel for these rain-producing storms to lead to more flooding, Alessi said. (The influence of climate change on tornadoes in the U.S., though, isnt as clear.) So a warmer Gulf of Mexico is not only producing more moisture, but the atmosphere is also able to soak up more of that moisture than it could before human-caused climate change. Indeed, the U.S. governments own climate assessments warn that precipitation is already getting more extreme across the country, as are the economic damages from the resulting flooding. Thats projected to get worse with every bit of additional warming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The problem is that American cities arent built to withstand this new atmospheric reality. Urban planners designed them for a different climate of yesteryear, with gutters and sewers that whisk away rainwater as quickly as possible to prevent flooding. With ever more extreme rainfall, that infrastructure cant keep up, so water builds up and floods. And with storms that last for days, like those tearing through Arkansas and Kentucky right now, soils get saturated until they can hold no more water, exacerbating flooding even more. On Thursday, rescue crews in Nashville, Tennessee were scrambling to save people trapped by surging water levels. Now scientists will have to pick through the data to figure out, for instance, how much additional rain the storm dropped because of the sponge effect and warming of the Gulf of Mexico. But the overall trend is abundantly clear: As the planet warms, it doesnt always get drier, but wetter, too. This story was originally published by Grist with the headline Did climate change supercharge the once-in-a-lifetime storm pummeling the central US? on Apr 4, 2025. Sean "Diddy" Combs now faces five federal charges, including sex trafficking and transporting individuals for prostitution. Prosecutors alleged that the embattled rapper ran "freak offs," elaborate sex performances through manipulation and threats. Sean "Diddy" Combs has remained in custody since his September 2024 arrest and is awaiting a May 5 trial, with four accusers expected to testify. Diddy Hit With Additional Sex Trafficking Charges In Updated Federal Indictment ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA Diddy is now facing a total of five criminal charges in connection to a federal sex trafficking investigation following a new indictment unsealed by prosecutors in New York City on Friday, April 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents reviewed by People Magazine, the updated indictment includes additional counts of sex trafficking and transporting individuals for prostitution, tied to a newly identified second victim, referred to as Victim-2. Prosecutors claim Diddy "recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained, advertised, maintained, patronized and solicited [Victim-2], and attempted, aided and abetted, and willfully caused [Victim-2], to engage in commercial sex acts, knowing and in reckless disregard of the fact that Victim-2 was engaging in commercial sex acts as a result of force, fraud, and coercion." An additional charge for transporting Victim-2 for prostitution was also added. These charges come on top of three earlier ones: sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting individuals to engage in prostitution, first filed in September 2024. Diddy's Legal Team Releases Statement On The New Indictment: 'These Are Not New Accusers' MEGA Federal prosecutors allege that Diddy orchestrated "freak offs," events described as "elaborate and produced sex performances," in which he allegedly forced individuals to participate through manipulation and intimidation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These accusations, tied initially to Victim-1, claim Diddy lured people by pretending to pursue romantic relationships, only to later use "force, threats of force and coercion" to get them to participate in the "freak offs." Still in custody at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center, Diddy awaits his May 5 trial and maintains his innocence, with his lawyers insisting all interactions were "consensual" and part of ongoing relationships. The indictment also details claims of violence, including an incident where Diddy allegedly "dangled a victim over an apartment balcony," along with accusations of arson and kidnapping. Following the new federal charges, Diddy's legal team shared a statement with The Blast, clarifying, "These are not new allegations or new accusers." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The team further claimed that "these are the same individuals, former long-term girlfriends, who were involved in consensual relationships. This was their private sex life, defined by consent, not coercion." Prosecutors Seek Anonymity For Diddy Accusers Amid Intense Media Scrutiny MEGA Prosecutors announced in a recent court filing that four women are expected to testify against Diddy during his upcoming trial. One of the accusers, referred to as "Victim-1" and reportedly a former long-term partner of Diddy, intends to testify publicly under her real name. However, prosecutors are seeking court approval for the other three alleged victims to use pseudonyms to protect their privacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to CNN, in the filing, prosecutors argued, "This case has already received an exceptional amount of media coverage, which will presumably only increase as trial proceeds. Permitting these measures will prevent unnecessary public disclosure of the victims' identities, and the harassment from the media and others." The prosecutors noted that "publicizing the names of these three victims would cause them significant embarrassment, anxiety, and social stigma" and might negatively impact their personal lives and careers. Despite their request for anonymity in public proceedings, Diddy and his legal team are already aware of the accusers' identities. Diddy Sued By Man Claiming Drugging And Sexual Assault In Alleged Revenge Plot MEGA Diddy was recently slammed with allegations from a man who claims he was drugged and sexually assaulted as part of an "organized criminal enterprise." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a lawsuit filed Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, plaintiff Joseph Manzaro accused the music mogul of orchestrating his exploitation in what he says was a revenge-driven attack back in 2015. According to USA Today, in the 64-page complaint, Manzaro is suing for human trafficking, racketeering, obstruction of justice, witness tampering, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The filing alleges that "Diddy orchestrated and facilitated the abuse, coercion, and intimidation of (Manzaro), using his influence, wealth, and power to silence and control (Manzaro) and engaged in acts of violence, sexual coercion, and psychological manipulation, knowingly causing severe harm while ensuring (Manzaro) remained unable to seek justice." In the explosive lawsuit, Manzaro also claimed he was humiliated in front of several A-list stars, including LeBron James, Beyonce, Jay-Z, Gloria Estefan, and her husband, Emilio Estefan. Diddy, Jay-Z And The Estefans Have Denied The Allegations MEGA In the wake of the filing, Jay-Z's attorney, Alex Spiro, denied that the rapper attended such a party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Mr Carter wasn't in Florida at that time to witness this incident - he was engaged in easily findable public activities that prove he was not at this event. This is more nonsense that erodes the trust in our "justice" system," he told TMZ. A rep for Gloria and Emilio Estefan also told the outlet that "the property in question was never a home WHERE Gloria and Emilio resided." They also denied that any party occurred within the timeline referenced in the suit. "There were no parties thrown at that property between 2012 and 2019. We have all necessary documentation to support these facts and will provide it to the court," the rep said on behalf of the couple Similarly, Diddy's legal team slammed the accusation, saying, "No sane person reading this complaint could credit this story." They also accused the alleged victim of seeking a "payday" and noted that Diddy is fully prepared to prove his innocence in court. In the packed White House briefing room CNNs chief White House correspondent, Kaitlan Collins, takes her place in the front row. Dressed in a sleek grey suit, legs crossed, the 32-year-old steels herself before firing a volley of questions at Donald Trumps press secretary amid the Signalgate furore enveloping the administration. Visibly irritated, Karoline Leavitt allows Collins just one question before shutting her down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kaitlan, Im not taking your follow-up, Mrs Leavitt insists. I have a follow-up on something you just said though, Karoline, Collins fires back, thrusting her pen into the air in exasperation. Mrs Leavitt refuses to yield. Credit: The White House This type of confrontation has become cinema for Republicans hungry to see Collins and other members of the mainstream media fail. Just days before, the pair clashed over claims that presidential pardons ordered by Joe Biden were signed using a robotic pen, rendering them void, something Collins was skeptical about. Instead of answering Collinss question, Mrs Leavitt replied with a wry smile: Youre a reporter, you should find out. Credit: The White House Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trump has declared war on legacy media journalists like Collins, accusing them of spreading fake news. I believe that CNN and MSNBC, who literally write 97.6 per cent bad about me, are political arms of the Democrat Party, and in my opinion, theyre really corrupt, and theyre illegal. What they do is illegal, he said last month, in a speech at the justice department. Each uncomfortable exchange between Collins and the 27-year-old press secretary will be seen as a win for the administration. They think insulting people, demeaning them is the quickest way to discredit, a former cabinet official during the first Trump administration told The Telegraph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins, however, insists it is simply her job to ask questions and get answers. ..this has always been my mantra, kind of since round one, its not about me. If you let them make it about you, I think youre losing, she told the New Yorker. Donald Trump has declared war on legacy media journalists like Collins - Al Drago/Bloomberg Like most American journalists, Collinss perfectly blow-dried hair and sparkling white teeth are just as much a part of her brand as her forensic examination skills and on-screen confidence. Collins, now 32, was the youngest-ever reporter to bag the top White House role at the network when she first landed the job aged 28. Before becoming a household name as a CNN anchor, Collins worked in Washington as a correspondent for The Daily Caller, a conservative news site founded by Tucker Carlson, fresh from her studies at the University of Alabama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins was born and raised in the state, to apolitical parents who taught her that the American political system was a failed one, according to InStyle magazine. It was at The Daily Caller where she was first exposed to the often chaotic GOP machine, learning the mysterious ways of Mr Trump, and befriending his closest allies. When I started covering Trump, I had just a better understanding of that orbit around him and the people that were surrounding themselves with him now, Collins said in The New Yorker interview. It actually has been really beneficial to me, I think, as Ive been covering him for the last eight years. Collins asks Mr Trump a question in the White House. She has become more familiar with him over the course of her career It was also there that she got her first taste of television, making several appearances on Fox and CNN where she was notably critical of George Soros, branding him a foreign-born, Left-wing guy who wants to change the nature of America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins has also been accused of criticising Black Lives Matter during the same appearance, saying it was a problem that Mr Soros had poured money into the movement to help it further its agenda. These early interviews are often used as a stick to beat Collinss credibility with, given she now works for a Left-leaning network. Her switch to television came soon after a White House spring event in 2017, where she met CNN network president Jeff Zucker, and thanked him for having her make an appearance on the channel, despite the ideological difference of her employer. Collinss first gig at the network was as a political reporter, although she was briefly banned from the White House in 2018 after grilling Mr Trump about his ties to Vladimir Putin, the Russian leader. Collins is subject to much ire online - Alex Brandon/AP At the time, the White House Correspondents Association called the ban wholly inappropriate, wrong-headed, and weak. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the 2020 presidential election Collins acted as CNNs White House correspondent, and later promoted to chief in 2021. She has hosted several shows on the network, including CNN This Morning and The Source with Kaitlan Collins. Throughout her career, she has repeatedly sparred with Mr Trump. Most recently, she was stopped from asking a question by the president during a round table with US ambassadors. Excuse me, I didnt pick you, Mr Trump tells her, swiftly moving on to another journalist. In 2023, Collins hosted a forum with Republican voters in New Hampshire, where she quizzed Mr Trump on his claims the 2020 election was stolen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the 70-minute town hall Mr Trump repeatedly became frustrated with the anchor, at one point branding her a nasty person. The Washington Post headlined their take: CNNs Kaitlan Collins tried, and tried, to rebut Trumps election lies. AP branded it a big test for Collins. MSNBC said it was always doomed to fail. Collins is subject to much ire online, with pro-Maga accounts reposting some of her more awkward moments as memes, revelling in her censuring by the Trump administration. The vitriol is so pertinent that my dad will see things on Facebook about me and then call me to ask if its true, she says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, the White House announced it would reshuffle the briefing rooms seating plan, putting mainstream media at the back and inviting favoured journalists to the front of the room where Collins normally sits. Collins expects more grief to come. It doesnt really bother me when [Mr Trump] gets upset at my questions, because our job is to ask the questions. He could respond however he wants to respond. That is his prerogative, and it shouldnt really influence what youre asking or how youre asking it, in my view. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Diego Morales is the blundering con man everyone knew he was. Everyone. Knew. It. The Republicans who clothed themselves in green shirts in 2022 and propped up Morales to lead an office that had previously fired him as a low-level employee knew they were nominating an unqualified hack to an important job. They did it anyway because of some silly beef with Gov. Eric Holcomb and former Secretary of State Holli Sullivan. Former Indiana Republican Party Chairman Kyle Hupfer knew Morales faced credible sexual assault allegations from Republican women and Hupfer stood by Morales anyway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Briggs: Micah Beckwith and his Indiana DOGE bros are livin' large Republican mega donor Bob Grand knew Morales was running on a fake resume and a pile of lies. Nonetheless, Grand facilitated the capital for Morales' shameful statewide election win. Morales knew he got over on everyone everyone! when he won in 2022, stepped up to the microphone and said with a smug smile, "The truth always prevails. Let me say that again: The truth always prevails." Impeach Diego Morales now Morales' truth did prevail. Morales is committing unfettered acts of corruption and he feels invincible. Why wouldn't he? Everyone who had a chance to stop him declined to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every powerful Republican in Indiana Gov. Mike Braun, Attorney General Todd Rokita, Sens. Jim Banks and Todd Young and on and on smile in photos with Morales. He is doing whatever he wants, rubbing Republicans' faces in it and they're taking it because he's on their team and winning is more important than accountability. The Indiana General Assembly should initiate impeachment proceedings immediately and remove this disgrace from office. The last straw should be IndyStar's report Friday that Morales not only acquired a $90,000 SUV for himself on the taxpayer dime, but also purchased it from the Kelley Automotive Group, which has donated $65,000 to Morales' political campaign since October 2022. Maybe it's just a coincidence! Maybe a Fort Wayne dealership is the only place that had the GMC Yukon Denali in the precise color Morales wanted. But it sure looks like quid pro quo, especially when you consider that Thomas Kelley, the company's president, is on Morales' Motor Vehicle Advisory Board, which influences auto dealer regulation, as IndyStar's Hayleigh Colombo reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Add another revelation to Morales' pile of profligacy, along with his recent mystery-funded 10-day "economic development" mission to India, his six-figure brother-in-law on staff and his affinity for spending lots of state money on trinkets with his name on them. Republicans tolerate corruption Republican lawmakers have finally started criticizing Morales' spending habits, which, good for them. But does Morales seem like an elected official who's going to be chastened? Morales isn't up for reelection until next year. He's got free rein to keep treating taxpayers and donors as his personal entitlements. The only check on Morales' mounting abuses is for the Republican supermajorities in the House and Senate to impeach Morales and remove him from office. Anything short of impeachment is yet another signal from the Indiana Republican Party that it tolerates corruption so long as their guy is doing it. Republicans lose credibility every day that Morales operates the secretary of state's office like his personal fiefdom, enriching himself and his family while running covert foreign missions with no oversight or explanation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the problem is not just Republicans. After a long, heated battle for Indiana Democratic Party chair resulted in Karen Tallian's victory last month, the minority party has done next to nothing to push Republicans toward accountability. Yukon, meet the press A Black Yukon Denali sits in the Statehouse parking lot. The Secretary of States Office spent more than $90,000 on the premium SUV which is driven by Diego Morales. Give state Rep. Ed DeLaney, D-Indianapolis, tremendous credit for a tough and fair line of questioning into Morales' choices during a committee hearing in January. But that's not enough. Democrats should be holding press conferences next to Morales' Yukon demanding investigations and impeachment proceedings into a statewide elected official who is obviously bilking taxpayers. If Democrats can't gain traction during a time when Indiana Republicans' hypocrisy and misconduct are on full display and President Trump is tanking the economy on purpose through tariffs, then they might be hopeless for another generation. Republicans aren't doing anything about Morales because they don't have any pressure to act. The party isn't going to just fold into itself, no matter how much it abdicates moral leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indiana needs a credible, energetic opposition party to demand that elected officials serve the public rather than themselves. If Tallian isn't up to that job, then she should acknowledge it now and get out of the way for someone else who can do it. Morales' grifting isn't happening in a vacuum. He's cheating the state with a smile on his face because the entire system is letting him. Republicans can do something about it right now if they want to. And, if they don't, Democrats should hold up Morales' Yukon as a symbol of Republican failure every day from now until Nov. 3, 2026. Contact James Briggs at 317-444-4732 or james.briggs@indystar.com. Follow him on X and Bluesky at @JamesEBriggs. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Diego Morales' $90K car is the last straw. Impeach him. | Opinion Following the discovery of an abandoned car, Duxbury police were able to locate a missing person. On the evening of April 1, officers were alerted to an abandoned Chevrolet landscape truck that obstructed traffic on Powder Point Avenue. Officers investigated the truck and found out from the registration that it had belonged to a company in Abington. When contacted by the Duxbury Police Department, the owner of the company said that it belonged to an employee, who unexpectedly left a job site earlier that day. Later, family members had reported the man missing and expressed concern for his mental health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A notice was put out regarding the individual, and officers investigated the area of Powder Point Avenue. While authorities did so, residents of the area had described encounters with an individual who matched the description of the missing person. Others also reported that the individual had also entered a home and a nearby vehicle, leaving some of his personal items behind. However, no reports were made to the authorities. Additional resources from K-9 units and thermal imaging drones were called around 10 P.M. to assist in the search. It wasnt until 10:40 P.M. that Pembroke officers were dispatched to a restaurant for reports of an individual having a mental health crisis. The individual was the man reported missing and was transported to the hospital for evaluation and treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Memorials to former Nazi concentration camps are free to choose who they invite to their ceremonies, the German government said on Friday, amid a dispute over the cancellation of an appearance by a German-Israeli philosopher. The row erupted after philosopher Omri Boehm's invitation to give a speech at the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Buchenwald concentration camp on Sunday was cancelled. The memorial's leader, Jens-Christian Wagner, said in a statement on Tuesday that Boehm's speech would be postponed due to criticism from "representatives of the Israeli government." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision was taken "to protect the survivors," the statement said, with around 10 survivors expected to attend the event. A government spokesman in Berlin said on Friday that he did not wish to comment on the incident, but that memorials must be able to "pursue their work in complete freedom, without being pressured by state institutions or social groups." "That means that memorials can freely choose their speakers," the spokesman added. Israel's ambassador to Germany, Ron Prosor, told dpa that he was "proud" to "show the red card to a commemoration of the [Holocaust] that relativizes the suffering of the survivors or questions the state of Israel." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Wherever Omri Boehm appears, he leaves broken china in his wake," Prosor added. "Jens-Christian Wagner's idea to offer him, of all people, a stage on the 80th anniversary of the Buchenwald concentration camp was ludicrous." Boehm, who received the 2024 Leipzig Book Award for European Understanding for his book "Radical Universalism," has not commented on the spat. BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Uzbekistan has proposed the creation of a joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Central Asia and the European Union with active involvement of the private sector, the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev said during the first Central Asia-European Union summit in Samarkand, Trend reports. We also count on the support of European partners in a new initiative - launching an investment platform to promote major regional projects in areas such as green energy, innovation, transportation, infrastructure, and agriculture, he said. The idea of concluding a multilateral Agreement on investment protection and promotion, the adoption of a joint regional program to support small and medium-sized businesses, including for women entrepreneurs, were also among the new proposals. "In early June, we will hold an Investment Forum in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in Tashkent. As part of this event, we intend to present the current portfolio of projects with leading European companies and banks, the total value of which exceeds 30 billion euros," Mirziyoyev noted. He emphasized that today all major businessmen, industry and innovation leaders of Europe are successfully working in Uzbekistan and other countries of the region. Among them are such corporations as Total, Siemens, Linde, Airbus, ADF and many others. Shavkat Mirziyoyev also expressed confidence that the previously signed agreement on the establishment of the European Investment Bank's office in Tashkent will stimulate the inflow of direct investments from the EU countries to Central Asia. We are ready to host the next Economic Forum and Investors Forum on transport connectivity in Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev stressed. The President also underlined the importance of expanding technical assistance from the European Union to increase the capacity of exporters, create laboratories and centers for standardization and certification. Apr. 4DIXON A state-operated residential institution in Dixon is among three such facilities under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. The Mabley Developmental Center, one of seven such institutions operated by the Illinois Department of Human Services, is among three being investigated as to whether residents are exposed to abuse and neglect, according to reporting by Capitol News Illinois. The other two are the Choate Developmental Center in Anna and the Shapiro Developmental Center in Kankakee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The probe is part of a wider U.S. Department of Justice investigation into Illinois' treatment of people with developmental disabilities to examine whether the state provides adequate resources for community living and protects residents from harm in public institutions, according to CNI. Tonya Piephoff, director of the Illinois Department of Human Services' Division of Developmental Disabilities, informed employees of the investigation in mid-March, according to a letter obtained by Capitol News Illinois. "The investigation will examine whether the state unnecessarily institutionalizes, or puts at serious risk of institutionalization, adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities," the letter stated, adding the probe will examine whether the conditions at the Mabley, Choate and Shapiro centers "expose residents to abuse and neglect." The investigation is expected to continue into the summer or early fall, with a report to follow, according to Piephoff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Sen. Li Arellano Jr., R-Dixon, released a statement following the Department of Justice's announcement that it was investigating Mabley. "I am aware of the DOJ's investigations into the Mabley Developmental Center, as well as other centers across our state," he said. "I have also had the recent opportunity to hear concerns from involved family members and citizens, and those conversations will continue. "My hope is that through the federal investigation, issues will be brought to light and real solutions will be put in place to benefit both the staff and the resident population. As we move through budget negotiation season at the statehouse, I will continue to advocate for funding to support our developmentally disabled community." Mabley was founded in 1987 and has a current census of 103 people and 233 budgeted staff, according to the Illinois Department of Human Services website. It serves adults who are 18 and older who have intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as co-occurring mental health disorders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, many of the people served at Mabley Center have severe to profound hearing and vision impairments. The facility has specialized resources to address those needs, according to IDPH. "The residents at Mabley, their families, and caretakers deserve the best when it comes to caring for our state's most vulnerable residents," Arellano said. "I will be monitoring this situation closely as I advocate for positive change for this community." FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WFLA) Authorities announced Thursday that they have identified two teens whose bodies were found in the landing gear of a JetBlue plane earlier this year. The Broward Sheriffs Office told WPLG that the victims were identified as Jeik Aniluz Lusi, 18, and Elvis Borques Castillo, 16, after extensive DNA testing. A JetBlue spokesperson previously said the bodies were discovered on Jan. 6 in the landing gear compartment of the plane during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement United Airlines flight makes emergency landing due to fire after departing from Florida According to flight data, the aircraft had a busy schedule. It flew from Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, to New Yorks JFK Airport on Sunday. It then flew routes between Jamaica, New York, and Salt Lake City, Utah, before ending in South Florida. Aviation attorney and pilot John Gagliano told CBS News Miami that an airplanes undercarriage is one of the deadliest places a person can attempt to stow away. Its very, very loud, Gagliano told the news station. Its very cold, and theres no air to breathe. So, its a very dangerous stunt to pull. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred, JetBlue Corporate Communications said. According to WPLG, the victims cause of death has not yet been released. The sheriffs office told the news station that autopsies were performed on both victims. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A Dnipro official has been killed, and his wife injured, after their car exploded on the morning of April 4, Dnipro National Police have said, adding the incident was being investigated as a possible terrorist attack. Yuriy Fedko, Head of the Left Bank Administration of the Dnipro City Council, was initially hospitalized but died several hours after the incident, national police said in a statement, adding his wife was left injured. The explosion occurred at around 7:40 a.m. local time in Dnipro. The cause of the explosion is currently unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents living near where the explosion occurred mistook it for the sound of Russian drones. Dnipro, Ukraine's fourth-largest city, is frequently bombed by Russia. "It was very loud, I was outside and thought the air defence system was working. I heard that some official was blown up," local resident Volodymyr told Suspline Dnipro. Another local resident claimed Fedko may have been warned of a possible attack "more than once." Police investigators, the National Police representatives, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Prosecutor's Office are investigating the circumstances of the explosion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to police, several possible scenarios are being investigated including an attack ordered by Russia to destabilize the situation in Ukraine, or a grievance stemming from Fedko's political activities. Borys Filatov Mayor of Dnipro said the attack "is being investigated by the best professionals." "It is a matter of honor for all of us," he said, paying tribute to "my friend from back in student days." Criminal proceedings have been opened under part 3 of Art. 258 of the Criminal Code (terrorist act). A previous suspected terrorist attack in Dnipro killed 1 and injured on Dec. 14, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: It would be foolish not to admire Putin Elon Musks father Errol swoons over Russian President Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. MESA COUNTY, Colo. (KREX) What started as a dog owners worst nightmare ended in a heartwarming reunion thanks in part to a multi-agency effort by Colorado responders. Mesa County Sheriffs Office posted on Facebook that an out-of-town visitor and his dog were visiting the Colorado National Monument when they pulled the car over to enjoy the view. When he opened the door to take her along, the dog leaped out of the vehicle and ran toward the ledge. She then fell over 100 feet off the edge before landing on a shelf. A dog was rescued after falling over 100 feet. (Courtesy Photo/Mesa County Search and Rescue) MCSO Deputy Derrick Strauch responded with a dog-catching pole in hopes he could reach her, but it turned out not to be long enough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mesa County Search and Rescue was then called in to help. The team climbed down to the pup before they brought her back up. MAP: What are President Trumps new tariffs in each country? Despite the long fall, the dog was up and walking fine. She was taken to emergency veterinary services where it was determined she only suffered minor scrapes and bumps but no broken bones or internal injuries, according to Mesa County Search and Rescue. The dogs owner was overjoyed and relieved after being reunited with the pup, Search and Rescue said. We are proud of the efforts that made this successful rescue possible and are thrilled to see the pup safely back in the arms of its owner, Mesa County Search and Rescue wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Search and Rescue thanked MCSO and park rangers for their efforts in saving the dog. The dog and her owner are reunited after she was rescued. (Courtesy Photo/Mesa County Search and Rescue) If dogs have nine lives like cats, she definitely used one in her adventure on the Monument, but we are so grateful to have an amazing Search & Rescue team ready to spring into action for all who need it! MCSO wrote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. HONOLULU (KHON2) As Hawaiis measles vaccination rate continues to decline, Department of Health officials are expanding efforts to protect the islands from a measles outbreak. According to the CDC, there have been 607 confirmed measles cases in 22 states so far this year; which is up from 285 total cases in all of 2024. Measles is one of the most highly contagious infectious diseases in the world, so its easy to bring it to Hawaii, explained local pediatrician Dr. Theresa Wee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said once a person is exposed to the virus, it could take eight to 12 days for symptoms to begin and symptoms can be contagious four days before and after the rash. Children can develop encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain, pneumonia, there can be deafness, intellectual problems, and, of course, even death, she explained. Pediatricians say the first shot is given at 12 to 15 months of age, and then a second dose around four to six years of age. However, with summer approaching, they encourage people traveling to high risk states to talk to a doctor about getting children vaccinated. To date, two children have died from measles in the U.S. this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hawaii Department of Health said coverage for kindergarteners with the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine was 90% last year. We need to be at 95% or above and thats the coverage that gives us heard immunity, explained state epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble. In some parts of our state, the immunization coverage is so low that we know that when that first case of measles arrives from Texas or Kansas or wherever its going to come from, its going to spread rapidly, explained Dr. Gina French, from Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children. Hawaii law requires students to receive immunization and TB clearance before attending school unless they have religious or medical exemptions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DOH sent a letter to parents letting them know they are allowing emergency rules. So, if you have a religious exemption and you choose to get MMR vaccine, thats not going to disqualify your religious exemption, explained Dr. Kemble. According to DOH data, in the 2023-2024 school year, about 4% of students had a religious exemption statewide which is up from 2% pre-Covid. DOH data found 55 schools reported non-medical exemption rates above 10% of the student population, and some public high schools reported up to 71% of students not up to date with their shots. The Department of Education said those students are allowed to attend school on a provisional basis, but that entrance could be denied if theres a danger of an epidemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But some parents are hesitant due to vaccine injury or other reasons. A lot of these [required immunizations] have been out for quite a while, and weve got a lot of experience with them, and know that they are safe and effective, explained Dr. French. I think its its very important that parents rethink and talk to their doctor, really talk to their pediatrician about the side effects, said Dr. Wee. Both pediatricians said they have seen a decrease in parents wanting their child to receive any vaccines post-Covid. Dr. French said she has seen children from other countries come in with a deteriorating brain disease that is the reactivation from measles they caught years before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So many things can happen to us in our lives, and there are a few things that we can really do to protect our children so that things dont happen, and immunizations are the miracle of my generation. You know, they are an amazing thing to have seen children dying that I couldnt help and now have them not get sick at all. We need to do it. We need to get these shots, and we need to all get off our tails right now and go get a measles, mumps, and rubella shot. Get the rest of your shots too, though, because those other diseases are nothing to sneeze at, and as more people dont get them, we will see the rest of them come back to, she continued. Two Oahu hospitals receive $10M in grants to expand access to critical cancer care In hopes of encouraging more vaccinations, DOH officials sent a letter to parents and guardians of Hawaii students, especially those who attend schools with low immunization rates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter outlines DOHs emergency rule, which states that children with a religious exemption can receive the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Students can also be exempt from other vaccines and continue to attend school. The emergency rule is effective for the next four months. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news Pediatrician and state epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble emphasized the need for vaccination as measles is a serious and sometimes fatal disease for keiki. At the rate its spreading, it could easily reach Hawaii on the next plane. The MMR vaccine is our best defense against the measles virus, Dr. Kemble said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parents are encouraged to vaccinate their children immediately. If a measles outbreak were to occur, the department said children without an MMR vaccine may be prohibited from attending school. All updates to a childs vaccination record should be reported to their school. Check out more news from around Hawaii The DOH is looking to hold on-site vaccination clinics. In the meantime, parents and staff can access vaccines through the childs healthcare provider or a local community clinic. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Like the two Democratic presidents before him, President Donald Trump declared April to be National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month with a proclamation issued Friday. But instead of citing statistics on the real problem of sexual violence in the United States, Trump used his statement to assail immigrants, claiming without evidence that illegal aliens have been one of the leading causes of sexual violence over the last four years, during the administration of his opponent President Joe Biden. Parts of Trumps proclamation read like pulp fiction: In a treasonous act of betrayal against the American people, the previous administration unleashed an army of gangs and criminal aliens from the darkest and most dangerous corners of the world causing a dramatic increase of sexual violence in our neighborhoods and communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added, These reckless policies empowered some of the most depraved people on the planet to exploit women and children in the most vicious ways imaginable. Trump cited three cases wherein a U.S. citizen was murdered, or alleged to be murdered, by men who came into the country from South and Central America. Each case was horrific: 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray was found strangled in Texas, 22-year-old Laken Riley was found dead in Georgia, and 37-year-old Rachel Morin was found beaten in Maryland. Trump claimed that these three anecdotal pieces of evidence were backed by cases of many others who were savagely killed by illegal alien crime. Trump wrote, Every act of violence committed against an American at the hands of an illegal alien is a crime beyond all comprehension. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But statistics do not back up his version of reality. Sexual assault is a widespread problem in the United States. According to RAINN, an activist group that offers resources to survivors, one out of every six American women has been the target of attempted or completed rape in her lifetime. Perpetrators of sexual assault, however, are known to the victim more often than not. Most perpetrators are white (57%) or Black (27%), according to RAINN. The United States Sentencing Commission also puts out annual fact sheets on sexual abuse offenders, revealing that the vast majority of the offenders are U.S. citizens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That has been true for years: in 2021, 95.4% of sexual abuse offenders were U.S. citizens; in 2022, 94.9% were citizens; in 2023, the most recent year data is available, 96.2% were citizens. The data shows no spike in immigrant-led sexual violence on a national scale. The scapegoating of ethnic and religious minorities is well-tread historical ground in the United States, and immigrants have always made for an easy target, read an October paper by the American Immigration Council, a nonprofit advocacy group. Chinese, Irish, Italian, Muslim, Mexican all these people and more have been falsely accused of bringing crime into the United States, particularly during times of economic or political unease, the group said. The paper went on to argue that immigrants are not only less likely to commit crimes themselves, but that their presence has been linked to lower crime rates in the surrounding community. Related... DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) Three Dothan teens are awaiting extradition to Panama City Beach after investigators claimed they were the main cause of a shooting that injured three spring breakers at Pier Park. Shots rang out near Dave and Busters around 9:30 p.m. last Saturday, injuring three people. Those victims were taken to the hospital with with non-life threatening injuries and are expected to recover. During a press conference on Friday, Panama City Beach Police Chief J. Talamantez announced that Avaughn Brown, 17; Jamarian Baker, 15; and Kevin Moore, 18; had been arrested in connection with the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 3 hurt in shooting at Pier Park; what police know so far Chief Talamantez said Moore and Baker were arrested by Dothan Police and U.S. Marshals in the Dothan area. The chief claimed Moore fired an AR-15 style rifle into the crowd. He is charged with three counts of attempted murder. Baker is facing only one count of attempted murder. Brown, charged with drug possession and possession of a firearm as a minor, turned himself into authorities in Troy after PCBPD issued a juvenile arrest warrant, the chief says. Theyre awaiting extradition and we are definitely excited to bring them back and invite them back to Bay County so they can answer for their crimes, said Chief Talamantez. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this speech to the public, Chief Talamantez revealed the teens were possibly tied to rival gangs from Dothan, but did not go into specifics. Authorities also said the investigation is ongoing and more arrests are expected in the case. Another Dothan man, Isaiah Tyshawn McKenzie, was arrested in connection with a separate shooting at Hammerhead Freds off of Thomas Drive late Thursday night. Police: No injuries after shooting at PCB restaurant According to the chief, while a large crowd was gathered in Hammerhead Freds, a rumor was spread that a gun was inside, causing a panicked mass exodus of patrons and children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief Talamantez said during the press conference that McKenzie shot several times in the air, while near PCBP officers, to frighten the fleeing crowd. The only explanation he provided was I just dont know why I did it,' said Chief Talamantez. McKenzie was charged with carrying a concealed firearm, tampering with physical evidence, discharging a firearm from a vehicle within 1,000 feet of a person, improper exhibition of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in commission of a felony offense. The chief said McKenzie could also face charges of inciting a riot as the investigation progresses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WMBB, WDHNs sister station in Panama City, assisted with this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. Apr. 4Investigators nearly from the start considered Derrick James Jackson the main suspect in the October 2022 murders of his 62-year-old mother and her 65-year-old partner, a detective who worked the case testified Thursday. The circumstances of Jackson's arrest, which came several hours before the discovery of the bodies of Tricia DeMotts and Stanley Grotberg, prompted investigators' interest in him, said Luke Foster, then a detective sergeant with the Flathead County Sheriff's Office. "The ... fact that he was located with what we believed to be most likely the murder weapon, the fact that he was wearing Stanley's clothing directly after we believe this [double homicide] occurred," Foster told jurors in Flathead County District Court. "All of this together led me to believe he likely committed the act." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors have charged Jackson, 39, with two counts of deliberate homicide and one count each of tampering with evidence and criminal possession of dangerous drugs in connection with the deaths of DeMotts and Grotberg. The couple was found shot to death in their Esteban Lane home in Bigfork during an Oct. 28, 2022 welfare check. Jackson pleaded not guilty before Judge Amy Eddy in February 2023. Deputy county attorneys Amy Kenison and Katie Handley are prosecuting the case. Living with DeMotts and Grotberg at the time, Jackson was arrested after he allegedly attempted to break into neighboring homes on Esteban Lane. While taking him into custody, deputies found a bottle of prescription medication made out to Grotberg in his possession. They also found a magazine clip on him, leading to a search of a nearby grassy area. That turned up the .40-caliber Smith and Wesson pistol that investigators believe was used to kill DeMotts and Grotberg. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much of Thursday's testimony came from experts with the Montana State Crime Lab, who reviewed evidence submitted by investigators. Jurors learned that the gun and two magazines associated with it were unsuccessfully checked for Jackson's fingerprints. But a Smith and Wesson gun case found in Grotberg's Nissan Pathfinder, which was parked outside the couple's home, did feature a match for Jackson's hand, testified Stephanie Shappee, a forensic scientist with the crime lab. A second forensic scientist, Doug Lacon, testified that he compared casings recovered at the murder scene with those he retrieved while test firing the Smith and Wesson. Markings left on the base of the cartridges indicated that they were fired from the same gun, he said. Travis Doria, an expert on primer gunshot residue, testified that residue was found on the hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans Jackson was wearing when he was arrested. And Joe Pasternak, a DNA analyst for the state in 2022, said he found likely matches for Grotberg's DNA on Jackson's clothing and the Smith and Wesson as well as on samples of blood taken from the couple's Esteban Lane home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DEFENSE ATTORNEYS Thomas Schoenleben and Levi Roadman continued their efforts Thursday to paint the investigation into the double homicide as myopic, focused on proving Jackson the killer from the get-go. While cross-examining forensic experts from the state crime lab, they noted that investigators only asked the lab to look for Jackson's fingerprints on evidence collected in the case, and that they failed to submit the victims' clothes for analysis for gunshot residue in particular. They also sought to demonstrate that the forensic analysis stopped short of showing that Jackson fired the bullets that killed DeMotts and Grotberg. Over the course of the trial, which began March 31, Jackson's defense attorneys have raised the possibility that Grotberg was a source of abuse in the home and suggested that Jackson may have acted in self-defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a recording of a conversation Jackson had with his father in the county jail following his arrest, Jackson allegedly made mention of trying to avoid being killed and saying he had defended himself. While cross-examining Foster, Roadman noted that detectives investigating the case in October 2022 were working without the analysis later provided by the crime lab. "There was never any other suspect in this matter?" Roadman asked. "No," Foster said. "That's how the investigation was conducted, with one suspect?" "Correct," Foster replied. Investigators, Roadman posited, determined Jackson was their suspect within hours of his arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under redirect from Kenison, Foster said that was a common occurrence. "Oftentimes when we're investigating crimes, there's one suspect," he told jurors. News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 758-4430 or dperkins@dailyinterlake.com. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 4. Central Asian countries and the EU have signed a Joint Declaration on Establishing Strategic Partnership, Trend reports. The declaration was adopted following the first Central Asia - European Union summit in Samarkand. The summit, held on April 4, was chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The event was attended by European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdymukhamedov, as well as the heads of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the European Investment Bank. The summits agenda focused on the future of multifaceted relations and practical cooperation between Central Asian countries and the EU, with discussions covering key international and regional issues. Particular attention was given to expanding investment cooperation, boosting trade, and advancing joint programs and projects in areas such as innovation, green energy, mining, agriculture, transport, logistics, and digitalization. The summit also emphasized continuing active exchanges in culture, tourism, science, education, and other priority fields. DENVER, Colo. (KDVR) Denver Police are releasing body camera footage from an officer-involved shooting last month that ended with a suspect dead. Normally, DPD holds press conference and body camera video releases within around a week of an officer-involved shooting. However, Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas said this was delayed in order to notify the family of the man killed and give them the video first. New body camera footage captures the response following a 911 call around 6:25 pm on March 20, reporting a man camping behind the catholic school on the 3500 block of Lafayette Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The caller also indicated the individual had a knife in a holster and was possibly armed with a firearm, DPD Major Crimes Division Commander Matt Clark said. Previous: No officers injured, suspect dead after shooting in north Denver Between two cameras, footage shows officers removing boxes around the man now identified as 57-year-old Jose Medina, man police believe was in and out of homelessness. DPD Chief Ron Thomas says the department has recorded contact with Medina since 2005. Once the cardboard is removed, this is what the officers saw: Mr. Medina, holding a replica firearm in his right hand, Clark said. They attempted de-escalate the situation by communicating with him, encouraging his compliance. After approximately a minute and 20 seconds, while the individual continued to hold the firearm and not comply with the orders, the subject suddenly raised the weapon in the direction of the officers. And in response for Denver, police officers discharged their firearms, striking the individual multiple times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clark said four officers collectively fired 16 rounds. Footage then shows officers come up to Medina, take the gun out of his hand and hand cuff him. During this time, one officer keeps a weapon on Medinas head. Thats not something that we trained, Thomas said. I think in the officers interview, it was revealed that he was still concerned about the individual being able to access the weapon. And so, I think he was using that as a de-escalation technique to make sure that he was aware that that that there were armed officers that were engaging with him and that he shouldnt access that weapon. After securing Medina, Clark said officers rendered aid including the application of a chest seal and a tourniquet kit. He said an ambulance was requested and Medina was transported to hospital where he later died from his injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox While processing the crime scene, investigators and crime lab personnel recovered a black replica firearm bearing Smith and Wesson markings, Clark said. Preliminary findings indicate that one of the rounds fired by officers struck the replica firearm, causing the slide to break apart into multiple pieces. According to DPD, none of the officers have been involved in previous police shooting incidents. An investigation is ongoing. Unfortunate situation, you know, no officer wants to take a life, Thomas said. I think that you could see the effort that they went through to make sure that he complied, dropped that weapon. It was their desire to safely in that situation. And, you know, they only responded with ultimately deadly force because he moved that weapon in their direction and put them in fear of their life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. "We remain confident Wisconsin schools and the DPI are in full compliance with the law," DPI Superintendent Jill Underly said in a statement. Underly at a rally in February. (Photo by Baylor Spears/Wisconsin Examiner) The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction is reviewing a request by the Trump administration that state education agencies ensure they arent using diversity, equity and inclusion programs or risk losing federal funding. According to WisPolitics, state Superintendent Jill Underly said the agency is looking at the U.S. Department of Educations justification and authority to request sign off from Wisconsin schools on the federal agencys political beliefs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now more than ever, Wisconsins students, educators and schools need support not threats of federal funding cuts that are vital to their success, Underly said in a statement. As we stated in February, we remain confident Wisconsin schools and the DPI are in full compliance with the law and remain committed to providing the best education possible for our students. In a letter, the Department of Education said that state agencies need to certify their compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the responsibilities outlined in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard the landmark Supreme Court decision that said race-based programs in higher education violate the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and effectively ended consideration of race in admissions programs. Federal financial assistance is a privilege, not a right, Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor said in a statement. When state education commissioners accept federal funds, they agree to abide by federal antidiscrimination requirements. Unfortunately, we have seen too many schools flout or outright violate these obligations, including by using DEI programs to discriminate against one group of Americans to favor another based on identity characteristics in clear violation of Title VI. The request comes as a part of President Donald Trumps ongoing attack on DEI efforts across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State agencies were given 10 days to collect certification from local education agencies and respond, according to the release. Underly, who was reelected to a second term this week, also urged state lawmakers Wednesday to invest in Wisconsins public schools amid the threat of funding cuts by the federal government. An unprecedented number of our school districts have been forced to turn to referenda, asking their communities to raise property taxes just to compensate for the states underfunding. On top of that, the Trump administrations reckless cuts threaten the critical federal funding that Wisconsin schools depend on, Underly said at a public hearing held by the Legislatures Joint Finance Committee in Kaukana. Underly was not invited for an agency briefing before the committee, so she traveled to deliver her message at the public hearing. Her requests for state investment include increasing the states special education reimbursement for schools, funding universal free school meals and investing in mental health supports for students. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX By Tim Reid and Nathan Layne WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Mary Glantz was in her room at a Hampton Inn in Columbia, South Carolina, last Friday night during a trip visiting friends when her phone began pinging furiously with messages at 9:30 p.m. They were from panicked colleagues at the U.S. Institute of Peace, an independent, congressionally funded organization in Washington that had found itself in the crosshairs of billionaire Elon Musk's cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DOGE employees had forced their way into the building, past protesting USIP staffers, with the aid of local police on March 17. Now Glantz, who had been a senior adviser at the institute, was being told that mass layoffs had begun. At 10:09 p.m., Glantz's own termination notice arrived in an email telling her she was being fired, effective immediately. Most of USIP's 300 staff were laid off that night. "I wasn't expecting it," said Glantz, who shared her termination notice with Reuters. "It was shocking," she said, because she had just been told her leadership was working on a briefing to DOGE justifying their work. Glantz and her colleagues are not the only government workers who have been fired late on a Friday night since U.S. President Donald Trump and Musk launched their fast-moving effort to cut the size and cost of the federal bureaucracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While thousands of workers have been fired in the overhaul throughout the work week, Friday nights have become some of the most nerve-racking times for civil servants. Mass firings have taken place on seven of the 10 Fridays that Trump has been in office since being sworn in on January 20, affecting hundreds of government workers, a Reuters review of the pattern of dismissals found. April 4 marks his 11th Friday in office, but it was not immediately clear if he would fire any more government workers after nightfall. The majority of these bureaucrats include people Trump has deemed opponents or potential impediments to his agenda. The frequency and scale of the Friday night layoffs are unprecedented, say legal experts and historians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previous Republican and Democratic administrations have used Friday nights to bury bad news or announce controversial policies but rarely to fire someone. Targeting federal employees for termination late on a Friday appears designed to minimize media coverage and make it more difficult for them to get immediate legal help, because law offices and the courts are shut, said Rosa Brooks, a professor at Georgetown University Law Center in Washington. "This is about getting rid of or intimidating anyone perceived as insufficiently loyal, and doing this late on a Friday makes it as difficult as possible for people to respond effectively," Brooks said. Asked why so many dismissals had taken place on Friday evenings, a White House official said: "These decisions are purely logistical and security-related." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official did not explain what he meant by "security-related." DOGE did not respond to a request for comment. Trump and Musk say the U.S. government is bloated and that cuts to the workforce are necessary to help eliminate waste and fraud and to save U.S. taxpayers money. INSPECTORS GENERAL TARGETED FIRST The Friday night firings began late on January 24 when the Trump administration abruptly dismissed a swath of inspectors general - official government watchdogs - at 17 federal agencies, including at the departments of Defense, State and Veterans Affairs. The inspectors general were told in a letter by Sergio Gor, director of the White House Office of Presidential Personnel, that they were being fired effective immediately because of "changing priorities." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then eight FBI officials who worked on cases related to the January 6, 2021, attack by Trump's supporters on the U.S. Capitol were ordered to resign or be fired on a Friday night. Late on February 21, Trump fired the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force General C.Q. Brown, and pushed out five other admirals and generals in an unprecedented shake-up of U.S. military leadership. A Justice Department prosecutor involved in investigations into the January 6 attack was in a bar in the U.S. capital's Chinatown and had just finished a Manhattan cocktail when he was fired on Friday, January 31. The prosecutor, who asked not to be named, said he and more than a dozen other prosecutors gathered in the bar after DOJ leaders sent an email that afternoon saying certain employees involved in the investigations into January 6 rioters would be terminated. They suspected their names would be on the list. As one of his first acts as president, Trump had pardoned or commuted the sentences of all of the January 6 rioters, fulfilling an election campaign promise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 7:14 p.m., the prosecutor's termination letter arrived in his inbox. Around the same time, his colleagues received theirs. Some laughed at what they saw as an absurdity - firing a group of prosecutors for doing their jobs. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove said at the time that Trump characterized their work on the prosecutions of his supporters as "a grave national injustice." The prosecutor said, "We would do it again, even knowing that we would end up getting fired." Employment lawyers said the use of Friday night dismissals was more common in the private sector. It prevents a fired employee from downloading sensitive materials before they leave, and gives IT staff time to deactivate their access badges so they cannot re-enter the building on Monday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NIXON'S SATURDAY NIGHT MASSACRE Some workers have compared the Friday night purges to former Republican President Richard Nixon's 1973 "Saturday Night Massacre," when he sought to remove the special prosecutor investigating his role in the Watergate scandal. "The Saturday Night Massacre involved efforts to fire one man," said historian Timothy Naftali, a former director of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in California. "There is no precedent for the mass firings of federal employees at any time, whether on a Friday night or any other day of the week," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other late Friday layoffs have targeted teams at federal agencies in charge of computer systems, which Musk and his DOGE team say they want to access in order to streamline them, eliminate fraud and waste, and make them more efficient. Around 6 p.m. last Friday at least three dozen IT staff at the tax-collecting Internal Revenue Service received emails placing them on administrative leave with pay, often the precursor to an outright dismissal, according to three people with knowledge of the matter. The emails - all addressed to "Dear Employee" - gave notice that their system access was suspended and directed them "not to perform any work-related tasks." No reason was given for their dismissal. (Reporting by Tim Reid and Nathan Layne; Editing by Ross Colvin and Howard Goller) Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears speaks at a bill-signing event in Richmond on March 19, as Gov. Glenn Youngkin looks on from behind. At the event, both doubled down on the necessity of sweeping federal layoffs while attempting to reassure Virginians that the states economy is resilient. (Photo by Markus Schmidt/Virginia Mercury) EDITORS NOTE This story includes discussion of suicide. A newly surfaced recording of Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears is drawing sharp criticism from Democrats and federal employee unions, who say her remarks downplaying the impact of recent federal layoffs show a disregard for the thousands of Virginians many of them veterans who have lost their jobs under President Donald Trumps administrations workforce cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the clip, released last week by the progressive media outlet Meidas Touch, Earle-Sears is heard downplaying concerns from federal workers about job losses tied to Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has already axed more than 6,000 veterans and is on track to cut at least 80,000 VA employees nationwide, according to the Associated Press. In the recording, which appears to be from a March 13 gathering, Earle-Sears addresses the recent federal layoffs tied to Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Now Im hearing about DOGE and all of that, she begins, before quickly shifting to a broader defense of Virginias job market. She insists that we dont want folks to lose their jobs, but points to what she says are over 250,000 jobs that weve created since weve been in office as evidence of economic strength. Earle-Sears then pivots to suggest that job loss is a common experience, asking the crowd, How many here have ever lost a job? When some respond affirmatively, she continues: Oh, you mean its not unusual? It happens to everybody all the time? Okay. She concludes by criticizing the media coverage surrounding the layoffs, saying, The media is making it out to be this huge, huge thing. And I dont understand why. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reaction from union officials and political opponents was swift. She was caught on tape saying she doesnt know why this is a huge deal, said Christine Surrette, national vice president for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) District 4 and a former VA employee. Ive had to console employees who were laid off, who dont know how theyll make rent. Some have taken their own lives. Sears isnt on the side of Virginians, Surette said on a Zoom call set up by the Democratic Party of Virginia Thursday. Earle-Sears, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran herself, is currently leading the pack in the Republican gubernatorial primary and has leaned heavily into her alignment with Gov. Glenn Youngkin and, despite disavowing him more than two years ago, Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The layoffs, which have significantly affected Virginias large population of veteran federal employees, are part of a broader federal workforce reduction effort launched under Trumps second-term agenda of fiscal reset. A spokeswoman for Earle-Sears campaign declined to comment, but pointed to a video the lieutenant governor posted on X, formerly Twitter, in February, where she expressed empathy for federal workers facing layoffs. I have been in your shoes and I totally understand what it is to not know how the next paycheck is coming, Earle-Sears said in the video. I know it from being an employee and I also know it from being a small business owner, and so I want to say this to you that we see you. At the same time, she reaffirmed her support for Trumps efforts to cut federal spending even if it results in job losses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our government, without question, owes us answers to how the money is being spent, she said. We work very hard for those dollars in order for the government to tax us, and so the government must be accountable to us and tell us how it is spending our hard earned dollars. Earle-Sears added that its also important to ensure support is available for those who lose their jobs and want to pursue new opportunities. It is also a given that we want to make sure that you have the money that you need to find a job or if you want to start a new career or even to go into business and how to do that, she said. Earle-Sears went on to promote Youngkins plan to connect laid-off federal employees with new job opportunities in Virginia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But her critics say the damage is done. Shes talking about someones life being turned upside down, said Monique Samuels, president of AFGE Local 1992, which represents Defense Logistics Agency workers in Richmond. Losing a job in any situation is devastating. With thousands of Virginians facing layoffs, there will be a larger economic impact that will hurt every Virginian, but Sears doesnt care. The layoffs have already disrupted essential services at facilities like the Hampton VA Medical Center, where 12 employees initially lost their jobs although one later was allowed to return, and the soon-to-open clinic in Chesapeake, where local lawmakers are already raising concerns about staffing levels. We were struggling before, said Sheila Elliott, president of AFGE Local 2328. Were already seeing appointments being rescheduled because doctors and nurses cant do their jobs because they dont have the tools that they need to get that job done. Yesterday we received 50 messages, people are worried about whats happening next. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger, the Democratic nominee for governor, also weighed in. Virginias federal employees are real people with real bills to pay, she said in a statement. Now is not the time for the lieutenant governor to put blind ideology and allegiance to a political party ahead of the livelihoods of our neighbors and the strength of Virginias economy. Virginia is home to the Pentagon, multiple military bases and one of the highest veteran populations nationwide. Many of those veterans transition into federal civilian roles after their service jobs that have become increasingly precarious as DOGE enacts mass terminations in the name of efficiency. I understand firsthand the importance of ensuring that our VAs are fully staffed and prepared to care for and support the men and women who have served our country. And right now, thats all at risk, said Ottis Johnson, AFGE District 14 vice president and a veteran himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As VA and employees are facing layoffs, our veterans earned their benefits, and they deserve better than threats to their care. But it is not just veterans who are at risk because of these attacks on federal jobs. Virginias economy depends on federal jobs. People are going to feel this in every corner of the commonwealth. Less than a week after the leaked remarks were recorded, Earle-Sears appeared alongside Youngkin at a March 19 event in Richmond where both officials defended the job cuts as part of a larger plan for national economic health. Today, we know we have a federal government that is facing huge fiscal issues with $37 trillion in debt, with $2 trillion being added every year, Youngkin said. What that requires is real action quickly. Earle-Sears echoed the message, calling Virginia resilient and citing CNBCs ranking of the commonwealth as the top state for business in 2024. Both touted the states Virginia Has Jobs platform, which they say lists over 250,000 available positions for displaced workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But union leaders say those promises dont match reality. These workers cant just walk into another job next week, said Surrette. Many are specialized professionals. Some are still waiting on severance. And in the meantime, veterans are waiting on appointments, prescriptions, and essential services. Surrette added that the disruption goes far beyond temporary economic turbulence, but that it strikes at the heart of the values many federal employees hold. These are people who dedicated their lives to serving others many of them twice, first in uniform and then in federal agencies. They deserve more than lip service. They deserve respect, support, and stability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE China revises list of Chinese aviation martyrs during WWII Xinhua) 09:51, April 04, 2025 NANJING, April 3 (Xinhua) -- China on Thursday released its second revised list of Chinese aviation martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, expanding it to 1,470 names, according to the Nanjing Anti-Japanese Aviation Martyrs Memorial Hall in east China's Jiangsu Province. The latest update adds the information of two newly verified heroes while correcting and supplementing details -- including names, hometowns, birth and death dates for 12 martyrs. The updates followed last year's release of information about 1,468 verified Chinese anti-Japanese aviation heroes, which was met with widespread attention and support. "After receiving the application of inscription and information about martyrs, the memorial hall conducted verification of materials, finally inscribed the name of two martyrs," said Dou Ruoqi, a staff member of the memorial hall. "The addition and correction aims to better the list of anti-Japanese aviation heroes. It is not only a deep memory of the heroes, but also respect and inheritance of history," said Dou. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Also on Thursday, a solemn ceremony honoring anti-Japanese aviation heroes was held, one day before Qingming Festival, a Chinese traditional festival to mourn ancestors and heroes. Cao Zhiqin is a relative of an aviation martyr. His grand-uncle Cao Xugui lost his life during a training mission in the United States at the age of 21 on Nov. 24, 1944 and was buried there. "Our family found his resting place after decades of relentless efforts. Since then, we longed to see his name honored among China's anti-Japanese aviation heroes. Today, that decades-old yearning is fulfilled," Cao said, after bowed to the monument where the name of his grand-uncle had been newly inscribed. The Nanjing Anti-Japanese Aviation Martyrs Memorial Hall houses a rich collection of historical materials documenting the joint efforts of air forces of China, the Soviet Union, the United States, and other countries during World War II to fight the invading Japanese troops. The names of 4299 Chinese and foreign anti-Japanese aviation martyrs have been engraved on the monument in the memorial hall. (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Wu Chaolan) Flash Iran on Thursday condemned what it called Israel's continued "crimes" and attacks against Palestinians. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei listed as crimes committed by Israel over the past few days the targeted assassination of reporters, intentional attacks on rescue and relief workers and medical centers. He slammed the inaction of certain Western countries in the face of the "flagrant and systematic violations of human rights and international humanitarian law" in the occupied Palestinian territory, calling it a clear sign of those countries' lack of honesty regarding the upholding of human rights and the rule of law. He also urged all countries to prevent the "continued killing of defenseless Palestinian women and children through verbal and practical solidarity with the oppressed Palestinian people." BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. We urge collective action to initiate a regional program for the implementation of water-saving technologies across Central Asia, the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, said at a climate forum held as part of the "EU - Central Asia" summit in Samarkand, Trend reports. "As part of these efforts, it is planned to hold an international forum in the Aral Sea region to discuss these plans with experts," he said. According to Mirziyoyev, projections show that by 2040, Central Asian countries will face a high level of water stress due to the reduced flow of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers. The region is already experiencing the consequences of one of humanity's largest tragediesthe drying up of the Aral Sea. "In order to conserve water resources, Uzbekistan is actively cementing its irrigation networks and creating an industrial base for the production of water-saving technologies, which have already been implemented on half of the countrys irrigated land. This amounts to almost 2 million hectares. As a result of these measures, around 8 billion cubic meters of water were saved last year," Mirziyoyev added. The Uzbek president emphasized that the country expects close cooperation with the European Union within the framework of the "Copernicus" program, aimed at continuous satellite monitoring of glaciers and early detection of risks to mountain ecosystems. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel STRONGSVILLE, Ohio (WJW) Everyone inside a car that was fleeing from police bailed from the vehicle and ran. The early morning chase and search for suspects started in Strongsville around 4 a.m. on Friday and ended in Cleveland near State Road and Montclair Avenue. Dashcam video: Driver smashes into local According to a FOX 8 photographer that was on the scene, Strongsville police took several into custody, but others got away. The Cuyahoga County Sheriffs Department and Cleveland police helped search for the suspects, which included the use of a drone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students voice concerns after library shooting Theres been no word on what started the chase or charges. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PINE BLUFFS With the $141 billion Sentinel nuclear weapons program coming to rural areas of eastern Laramie County and western Nebraska, landowners expressed some of their concerns this week at a town hall hosted by the U.S. Air Forces Global Strike Command. Top concerns included how the Air Force plans to dig underground to replace old wires and how that will impact the property, and the new developments and number of people coming to the Pine Bluffs area. Representatives of the Air Force said they wanted to host Wednesday nights meeting to be transparent, but it was too early to directly answer many of the questions and concerns of Pine Bluffs-area residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We owe you answers. Some of them may be tonight, some of them may be a year from now. We owe transparency to you that paid tax dollars so that we can do what were doing, said Maj. Gen. Colin Connor, director of Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Modernization, Site Activation Task Force. Connor described the project as a necessity for national defense to modernize the nations intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). The project includes building more than 450 new Sentinel missiles, constructing 450 new unmanned launch facilities and creating 24 new launch centers with over 100 specialized vehicles and equipment, equipment for 16 secondary launch facilities and three new wing command centers. The project will replace the existing Minuteman III nuclear missiles, which were designed, built and installed underground largely in the 1960s. You guys have seen in the news, and its been used in presidential debates of what our adversaries in Russia and China are doing, Connor said. And while the Minuteman III maintains a great deterrent to our adversaries, its time is running out, and theres only so much you can do to continue to keep it and make it a credible deterrent. And when people say, what are you going to do next? The answer is Sentinel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spanning three Air Force bases covering 32,000 square miles across five states, the projects impact will first be felt in the areas overseen by F.E. Warren Air Force Base in southeast Wyoming, western Nebraska and northeast Colorado before moving to Montana, followed by North Dakota. One of the first places that it will be felt is underneath landowners properties. The Minuteman III missiles are stored underground in missile silos and are connected to missile alert facilities by copper wire. Across the nation, there are around 5,000 miles of wire connecting the nuclear missile systems. As part of the project, the Air Force plans to replace this copper wire with fiber cables. To do this, landowners must lease their land to the military where the wires lie. At 50 feet on either side of the cable, the landowners will lease 100-foot-wide lines on their property for several years during this project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One attendee, local landowner Burl Spainhower, asked if the new lines will be in the same place as the old ones. Col. James Rodriguez, Sentinel Infrastructure and Development Lead, said, The answer is maybe, but likely yes. Sentinel Infrastructure & Deployment Lead Col. James Rodriguez Sentinel Infrastructure and Deployment Lead Col. James Rodriguez speaks during a Sentinel town hall Wednesday night in Pine Bluffs. The goal of the meeting was to update the public on the progress of the project to replace the country's land-based nuclear missiles, and for residents to ask questions and voice any concerns they have at this point. There will be some areas where we need to add new lines, to add additional redundancy and make the system even better, where we will need to acquire new real estate easements in order to make the system better, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Connor said the Air Force hopes to begin digging to replace the old wires in 2027, with plans to finish that aspect of the project within three years. Travis Freeburg, another local landowner and attendee, expressed concern with how the military approaches lease negotiations on the easements, asking for fairness and consistency. Weve been in negotiations with you guys at the Army Corps of Engineers on some access easements for the right of way and kind of ran into a wall a little bit. ... I guess that all Im asking is just, with the size of this project, compensate the people fairly. Were not being unreasonable or anything like that, he said. Thats all were asking is just to be fair. The Army Corps of Engineers was tasked by the Air Force to lay the fiber cables. Lt. Col. Richard Childers represented the Army Corps of Engineers at the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The valuation of land, its a very scripted thing, he said. We dont have artistic latitude to really get fancy with it, but our goal is to provide fair compensation for temporary use of your land. Both Freeburg and Spainhower expressed support for the ultimate goal of the project, but wanted answers to some questions they have as the project proceeds, most of which the Air Force was not yet able to provide outside of rough estimates on timelines. One attendee asked about the impact on Pine Bluffs specifically, whether the town will see an influx of people and if there will be a new control center nearby. In the initial projections created for the project by Northrop Grumman, the lead contractor for Sentinel, some of the lay-down yards and workforce hubs were set to be created near Pine Bluffs. Rodriguez said this may or may not hold true moving forward as the Air Force continues to analyze the best and cheapest options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, he said outside labor will have to be brought in for this project. The construction labor that is required for this will exceed your regional demand, Rodriguez said. So, there is very likely going to be a need to bring in external workforce, and so again, thats something we dont have the full plan for yet because it depends on the design. He was still uncertain when that phase of the project would be felt in the area, but estimated it would be at the beginning of the next decade. Rodriguez added that the Air Force hopes to build new missile silos on the same sites as existing silos, but that may not be possible in all cases. Factors like geography are being analyzed to determine where the new silos will be built. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tracy Jerman, representing Northrop Grumman, said she understands the concerns and frustrations with unanswered questions regarding the project, as it also impacts her community in Montana. However, she said it is best to allow more time for planning and analysis. If I were to go build a house, I wouldnt lay my foundation until the architect was done designing, because I could put a big foundation in and not need it, she said. So, I think thats maybe the best analogy of Sentinel right now, is that were, as a team, trying to work really hard on making sure that were not spending extra money, or were not spending extra time in your field when we dont need to. The idea is when were ready, were ready to go. Turnout in this weeks municipal elections across Cook County was low. Thats nothing new. A measly 286,301 out of 1.7 million suburban Cook County registered voters 17% cast a ballot in their local elections, which arguably have more impact on regular peoples lives than what comes out of Washington and Springfield. That this is to be expected in local elections is a sad fact. Turnout in midterms is better, when about half of registered voters head to the polls. Still, a significant number of Illinois voters sit out Election Day. What if that could change? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In other states, such as California, Arizona and Colorado, voters concerned or passionate about a policy issue have a path to get that issue before voters on the ballot. Consider: In the November election, California voters got to decide on raising the states minimum wage to $18 an hour (they narrowly rejected Proposition 32) and stiffening penalties for certain theft and drug crimes (they overwhelmingly approved Proposition 36). Illinois voters should have the opportunity to send a message to politicians on the most important issues affecting their quality of life and cost of living. Unfortunately, they rarely have that chance. Thats why we were pleased to see a number of suburban townships asking voters to weigh in on big issue advisory questions on April 1. In eight suburban townships, voters got to tell elected officials what they think about three important issues: pension reform, redistricting and unfunded mandates. We were encouraged that voters supported pension reform and fair maps, and opposed unfunded mandates. But these questions were non-binding, meaning theyre merely advisory. Imagine the possibilities to overcome political lethargy on these issues if voters had meaningful power to initiate change on their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While lawmakers can vote to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot, regular citizens are extremely limited in their ability to do so. Thats the reason weve only seen one citizen-driven ballot initiative, a 1980 measure that reduced the number of state representatives, while voters in other states have had scores of opportunities to make their voices heard. Even after more than 560,000 Illinois voters in 2016 signed a petition to amend the state Constitution to establish an independent commission for legislative redistricting, the Illinois Supreme Court tossed it off the ballot. Instead, were stuck voting only on amendments politicians deign to give us, such as the graduated income tax, which was soundly rejected in 2020, and the workers rights amendment, which passed narrowly in the 2022 midterm. In a state like Illinois, which is plagued by extreme gerrymandering that makes nearly half the states population feel like they have no say in how they are governed, initiatives could be a particularly valuable way to level the playing field. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some flinch at this method of direct democracy, which allows citizens to bypass legislators. We would also be cautious in encouraging a citizen initiative process anything too permissive risks badly undermining our representative democracy and inducing governing chaos. California, for example, has a very low signature requirement given its population, making it relatively easy to get an initiative on the ballot. Long ballots with numerous referendums that overwhelm voters can cause voter fatigue just as gerrymandered districts do. And we understand the risk that wealthy donors and special interests can use their organizational and financial resources to take inappropriate advantage of binding referendums. But greater direct citizen say has worked elsewhere to reverse voter apathy, and we think a liberalized voter initiative system could be just the kind of jolt frustrated Illinoisans need to feel more invested in exercising their franchise. There are safeguards we can use that other states have demonstrated are effective in ensuring voter initiatives arent abused. For example, Arizona protects against voter confusion by imposing single-subject rules on initiatives, meaning a question cant connect unrelated issues to one another. Many states require geographic distribution of signatures collected to get an issue on the ballot, which promotes broader consensus and prevents initiatives from qualifying based solely on support from densely populated areas. As Illinois political ecosystem exists today and has for decades a well-structured initiative system could serve as a new check on government and a means to impel lawmakers to follow the public will. On April 1, voters told us what they wanted on several key issues, including gerrymandering mentioned above. Its likely their elected officials wont do anything in response. We should be open-minded about ideas that could reverse this trend. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. CRAIGHEAD COUNTY Ark. An EF-3 tornado left scattered debris, remnants of homes, flipped vehicles, downed trees and power lines in Craighead County Wednesday. The National Weather Service says an EF-3 tornado hit the Bay and Lake City communities in Arkansas Wednesday night. Lake City, Arkansas is one of the communities hit the hardest. No power to Lake City yet. I dont really have an estimate, but in my opinion, I would say were probably two to three days out before well get power restored, as many lines are damaged, said Shelby County Sheriff, Marty Boyd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heavy rain causing flash flooding in Memphis, Shelby County Sheriff Boyd and Lake City Mayor Cameron Tate told WREG that utilities are the biggest concern right now. Weve worked to get the utilities back and going, said Mayor Tate. Were currently under a boil order cuz we lost pressure. We had a broken water main somewhere trees uprooted it and were tryna get that fixed. As recovery continues in Lake City, the command post at Riverside High School is serving as a resource for residents. The Craighead County Sheriff told WREG that at least 15 homes were destroyed, and about 12 to 15 others have major damage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EF-3 tornadoes struck in TN and AR, NWS says Hunter Douglas is one of many homeowners cleaning up the aftermath of Wednesdays severe weather. So far right now, its just, it looks like its my carport area, so everything else, it seems fine. And we had three trees land on top of it, said Douglas. He said he was not home when the storm hit, but several of his neighbors were inside their homes when trees fell. Tree falls on house, injuring man who ran inside I talked to all the neighbors around me and they were in their house while it happened, so Im just thankful everybody is okay, said Douglas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As crews work to restore utilities for the area, the community is lending a helping hand to each other during the recovery process. Mayor Tate tells WREG the boil water order could end tomorrow evening, but that could change due to more severe storms this week. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. The National Weather Service Offices in St. Louis, Lincoln, Chicago and Indianapolis have been busy working on surveying damage from last Wednesdays storms. On Friday Evening, the finishing touches were put on these surveys. In total, there were 10 tornadoes that touched down in Central Illinois and Western Indiana as part of the April 2nd storms. Two of these tornadoes were rated EF-0, five were rated EF-1, two were rated EF-2, and one tornado that caused no damage was given the rating of EF-Unknown. The National Weather Service in Chicago assessed damage in Iroquois County and found two tornadoes touched down there, one near Loda and the other near Cissna Park. The Loda tornado was rated an EF-1 and the Cissna Park one was rated an EF-0. WCIA was there shortly after the tornadoes and saw the damage firsthand. A brief tornado was caught on camera about 2 miles northwest of Forsyth. However, no damage was able to be found associated with this tornado, and as a result it goes down as an EF-U (Unknown) tornado. An EF1 tornado was confirmed to have started along the eastern bank of the Wabash River in Parke County, Indiana. The tornado lifted just southeast of Catlin, but not before damaging a cabin along the river as well as a house and a pair of buildings belonging to the same property as the house. This was likely part of the same tornado-producing storm that traveled through 3 counties in Illinois, which can be seen farther down this page. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One tornado began just 3 miles northeast of Marshall in Clark County and knocked over a pair of semis near I-70. This EF1 tornado lifted on the far southeast corner of Edgar County, damaging several trees and a total of 8 buildings on a hog farm before doing so. An EF2 tornado ripped through Cumberland, Clark, and Edgar Counties, remaining on the ground for 44.62 miles in Illinois before eventually lifting in Indiana after another 4.45 miles on the ground. This could be one of the longest paths, if not the longest path a tornado has had in the WCIA viewing area in the last 50 years. The tornado touched down about 2.5 miles south of Toledo, but caused EF2 damage once it came through Union Center as it took out several large, healthy trees. A number of garages and outbuildings took damage along the path of destruction as well. This tornado may have been on the ground for close to 50 minutes, something rarely seen around here. WCIA went to one of the hardest hit areas in Cumberland County to hear from a homeowner who was left with quite the mess. An EF0 tornado touched down just south of Woodbury and actually went into the town of Jewett before finally lifting. While in Jewett, the tornado caused roof damage to a number of houses and caused some tree damage. Two tornadoes have been confirmed in Effingham County, with additional areas of damage being attributed to wind damage. An EF1 tornado touched down south of Altamont, and another EF1 tornado occurred south of Montrose. Other areas of straight line wind damage from wind gusts of 70-90 mph were assessed from Altamont east towards Watson and the Effingham airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strongest tornado was an EF2 that touched down southwest of Greenville in Bond County. It was on the ground for 23 miles and had maximum winds of 130mph, making it a strong EF2 tornado. One person was reported injured in the Greenville area, according to local officials. It crossed the Fayette County line north of Mulberry Grove where it lifted before reaching IL 185 near Shafter. With these tornadoes Wednesday, we have now seen 22 tornadoes in the WCIA-3 viewing are in 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. Democratic primaries are heating up with progressive candidates generating early hype and centrist candidates who lost their 2024 bids announcing new campaigns in the hopes that conditions in 2026 can deliver them a win. Despite both wings of the party gearing up for competitive races, the two factions aren't clashing yet. Since the Democrats' defeat in the 2024 elections, the 2026 primaries have loomed, with both the partys progressive and moderate wings seeking to pull the Democrats in a direction that they believe will lead them back to the majority in 2026 and potentially to the White House in 2028. So far, progressive candidates have had the jump, often criticizing the party for its limp opposition to Trump and Republicans and promising a more robust resistance to the administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While firebrands like Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., have packed stadiums in western states, challengers like Saikat Chakrabarti, Ocasio-Cortezs former chief of staff, and Katherine Abughazaleh, a political commentator, have launched House campaigns reminiscent of insurgent campaigns from the 2018 cycle. Chakrabarti is currently running in Californias 11th District, which has been represented by Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., the former speaker of the House, for the past 37 years. In his campaign, hes criticized current leadership for failing to acknowledge a completely new era in American politics and subsequently failing to rise to meet the threat the Republican Party poses to the United States, its democratic institutions and the material wellbeing of Americans. You know, they're playing a different game. And the Republicans, unfortunately, are going faster. They're moving too fast for them, Chakrabarti told Salon in an interview. Abugazaleh announced a primary challenge in Illinoiss Ninth District against Rep. Jan Schakowsky, who has represented the district since 1999. With Schakowsky being one of Congresss more progressive members, Abugazaleh has focused on generational change and honing a new type of campaign strategy, focused on helping people in the district with the campaign infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think that this strategy, yeah, it might, we might not be blanketing every single second of TV commercial space, but people will actually know me and will either be helped by this campaign and by the groups in their community who are doing the work or will know someone who has been, Abugazaleh told Salon in an interview. The Justice Democrats, which have backed progressive primary candidates since 2018, are also promising to field a slate of candidates in 2026, both in blue districts and swing districts. In the Senate, Mallory McMorrow, a Michigan state senator, has announced a bid for the U.S. Senate, criticizing the leadership of Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and telling Politico in an interview that it was time for him to step down from leadership, in the wake of his capitulation to Republicans on their recent government funding bill. She is running to replace Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., who is retiring. The checks and balances no longer exist. So you either fight for a future or you dont. And that isnt about whether a party moves left or right or center, McMorrow told Politico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With establishment critical primary candidates cropping up across the country, centrist Democrats are also promising to pull the party in a more conservative direction, with Californias Gov. Gavin Newsom hosting right-wing activists like Charlie Kirk and former advisor to President Donald Trump, Steve Bannon, on his podcast. Other self-fashioned moderates like the former House speaker and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel are hinting that they plan on returning to public office. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. However, it looks like progressives and moderates are playing on different turf, for now. Matt Bennett, a vice president of the centrist Democratic group Third Way, discussed the candidate recruitment strategy of centrist Democrats and, as it stands, he said theyre focused on swing districts currently held by Republicans. Bennett said centrists were getting excited about candidates like Rebecca Cooke, who announced a campaign for Wisconsins Third District, which is currently represented by Rep. Derrick Van Orden, R-Wis. Centrists have also recruited Janelle Stelson to run against Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., in Pennsylvanias 10th District and JoAnna Mendoza, a former drill instructor, to run in Arizonas Sixth District, which is currently represented by Rep. Juan Ciscomani, R-Airz. A big part of the centrist push, Bennett said, is backing candidates who had performed well in 2024, even if they didnt win. Occasionally, we, the party, nominates people from the farther left in those districts, and they lose, and when we nominate people from the center, they win. It happened in my hometown of Syracuse, where, you know, for two cycles in a row, we nominated somebody who was too far left in the district, and then we nominated John Mannion, and then he won, Bennett said. So and there's plenty of examples of that all over the country, so we are very much hoping that moderates will run in as many of the purple and even red districts as possible, and we're already seeing that. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) El Paso Police Departments (EPPD) Crimes Against Persons Unit is asking for the publics help on any information about a suspicious death that happened on Wednesday evening, April 2, in Central El Paso. EPPD said officers responded shortly after 7 p.m. on Wednesday to the 4000 block of Filmore Avenue about a welfare check. Officers located a dead male and requested assistance from Crimes Against Persons, EPPD said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPPD said this is the seventh murder of 2025 compared to five murders at this time in 2024. If you have any information, contact the Crimes Against Persons Unit at (915) 212-4040 or to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers of El Paso at (915) 566-8477. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) El Paso Water crews responded to an 8-inch water main break on Thursday morning, April 3, in West El Paso. Pavement opens up after water main break in West El Paso This is the second water main break this week; the other happened on Tuesday, April 1 in Northwest El Paso. El Paso Water responds to water main break in Northwest El Paso Officials with El Paso Water said water main breaks are not uncommon, adding that a majority of factors can cause them, including aging infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aging infrastructure is something that El Paso Water, along with the rest of the nation, is trying to catch up with. These lines are getting older, (we are) trying to replace them. We look at the location of the lines, Is it in a high traffic area? What is the impact of that? Denise Parra, public affairs officer for El Paso Water, said. Parra adds that the utility is working to address aging waterlines across the city, with several projects in progress. We are looking at several areas throughout El Paso. Off the top of my head right now, we do have one in a couple (places) in Central El Paso where we are replacing these aging waterlines. That is, of course, to ensure that we have that reliable service to our customers, Parra said. The utility implemented a 7 percent rate increase on residential bills for water, wastewater and stormwater charges. The change took effect in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EP Water to implement 7% rate increase in March Parra adds that customers dollars will go towards these infrastructure projects. When you see the main breaks happening or when you see these, construction projects where we are replacing aging infrastructure, that is our ratepayers dollars at work, Parra said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. An elderly woman was allegedly kidnapped at gunpoint Wednesday afternoon outside Hollywood Casino and forced to drive her abductor to an ATM before he stole her car and fled. The suspect has since been arrested and now faces a series of felony charges in St. Louis and St. Charles counties. Darryl Anthony Saddler, 62, faces nine felonies in connection with the kidnapping investigation, according to Missouri court records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police initially received a report of a kidnapping outside the Hollywood Casino in Maryland Heights around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, according to a news release from the city. Investigators say the victim, a 75-year-old woman, was kidnapped, held at gunpoint and forced to drive across county lines to St. Charles. Woman arrested for hit-and-run crash that killed bicyclist The victim reportedly drove Saddler to an undisclosed ATM in St. Charles. Once there, Saddler reportedly demanded the victim to withdraw money, then stole her vehicle and drove away from the area. After that, the victim contacted St. Charles Police and provided officers with a description of Saddler and her vehicle. Saddler was taken into custody nearby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, prosecutors filed the following charges against Saddler In St. Louis County: One count of first-degree kidnapping One count of vehicle hijacking Two counts of armed criminal action In St. Charles County: One count of first-degree kidnapping One count of first-degree robbery One count of unlawful possession of a firearm One count of stealing a motor vehicle One count of armed criminal action Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News According to the Maryland Heights news release, Saddler has a lengthy criminal history that also includes charges of rape, robbery, burglary, bank robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm in other cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Maryland Heights Police Department says it is working in partnership with the St. Charles Police Department to further investigate the matter. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Rep. Rachel Keshel, R-Tucson, in March 2023 at a press conference at the Arizona Capitol. Photo by Gage Skidmore | Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0 Even after winning the presidential election and increasing their majorities in both chambers last fall, President Donald Trump and his GOP devotees in the Arizona Legislature are still preoccupied by conspiracy theories born out of Republican defeats in the 2020 and 2022 elections. That fixation on unproven claims of fraud led to Trumps executive order last week that would require numerous changes to how voter registration and elections work across the country. And Republicans are proposing multiple election law changes in Arizona, some based on the experiences of the states most notorious election denier, Kari Lake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One proposed change awaiting a vote in the Arizona Senate is House Bill 2440, which would prohibit the attorney general from prosecuting members of a county board of supervisors if they refuse to certify election results. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The measure, sponsored by Rep. Rachel Keshel, R-Tucson, is meant to prevent what happened in Cochise and Mohave counties after the 2022 midterm, when members of both county boards under intense pressure from GOP talking heads and community members delayed results certification. State statute requires county boards to certify election results, and the Mohave County Board of Supervisors did so after a delay in protest of how the election was run in Maricopa County. But the Cochise County Board of Supervisors missed the legal deadline and only certified the results after then-Secretary of State Katie Hobbs sued them and a judge ordered it. After an investigation by Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes, two Republican members of the three-person board who refused to certify, Peggy Judd and Tom Crosby, were indicted by a grand jury in 2023 for delaying the certification of results. Judd pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge and acknowledged that she failed to certify the results by the deadline as part of a plea deal last fall, but Crosby is still awaiting a trial on felony charges of conspiracy and interference with an election officer. His trial is set to begin April 21. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keshels bill would bar the attorney general from prosecuting county board members or filing a civil suit against them for failing to certify election results by the deadline, if the board member has a good faith belief that there are unresolved issues that materially affect the integrity or accuracy of the election results. Judd and Crosby both gave differing reasons for delaying certification, saying at different points that it was a protest of election problems in Maricopa County, that it was because certification wasnt put on their meeting agenda and that they delayed because their tabulation machines werent properly certified. Board members could also avoid prosecution for failing to certify if they received any documentation or other evidence that suggests potential irregularities or errors in the election process. Isaac Glover, a young Republican who brought the idea for the bill to Keshel, told the Senate Judiciary and Elections Committee on March 26 that it would open up another avenue for contesting election results. Currently, the only option is a court challenge, after certification and the canvass, like the ones Lake, Mark Finchem and Abe Hamadeh lodged after the GOP candidates lost races for statewide office in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of their challenges failed because they had no evidence that the election results were inaccurate. If youre having issues with an election, the answer isnt just to go ahead and certify and maybe bring up the issues later, Glover said. Glover claimed that, when Lake brought her election challenge case in Maricopa County Superior Court in December 2022, the judge acknowledged there were problems with the election but said it could be certified anyway. [The court] said, Yes, youre right Ms. Lake, we have issues but were just going to certify the election anyway, because the intention was not fraud, Glover said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That miscasts what happened, however. Superior Court Judge Peter Thompson did acknowledge that some voters experienced frustration because of inconvenience and confusion caused by technical issues with the printer and tabulators, but he never conceded that Lake was right about any alleged evidence of fraud that she presented. Some voters who cast ballots in-person on Election Day 2022 in Maricopa County experienced delays and long lines caused by problems with ballot-on-demand printers. Printer issues were reported at about 70 of the 229 voting centers open in the county that day, which made some ballots unreadable by onsite tabulators. Those ballots were set aside for tabulation later at a central count facility but some Republicans claimed, without proof, that their votes werent counted because they didnt get to watch their ballots being tabulated. Lakes election challenge case was dismissed after two trials in Maricopa County Superior Court and numerous appeals to state and federal courts, and her final petition to the Arizona Supreme Court was denied the day after the 2024 election, in which she lost the race for U.S. Senate to Democrat Ruben Gallego. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lake challenged the results of the election based on her own claims that a Maricopa County employee had tampered with ballot printers in an intentional effort to disenfranchise Republican voters. But she failed to prove that any intentional tampering took place, or that the printer issues actually stopped anyone from voting or from their vote being counted. The Court cannot accept speculation or conjecture in place of clear and convincing evidence, Thompson wrote in his Dec. 24, 2022 ruling. Keshel, a member of the far-right Arizona Freedom Caucus, told the Senate Judiciary and Elections Committee that she wanted to stop county board members from being pressured to certify an election if they feel uncomfortable doing so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If one county board decides not to certify its election results, the rest of the state could move forward without them, and their votes wouldnt be counted. In Cochise and Mohave, that would leave voters in two heavily Republican counties disenfranchised. When Democratic Sen. Theresa Hatathlie, of Coal Mine Mesa, asked Keshel whether her proposal would run counter to efforts from Republicans this year to speed up election results reporting, Keshel said that she valued accuracy over speedy results. She has routinely voted for Republican-backed measures aimed at producing faster results. When Hatathlie attempted to ask additional questions, Republican Sens. John Kavanagh and Mark Finchem interrupted her repeatedly and didnt allow her to finish. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finchem, who was sanctioned for bringing a groundless challenge to the results of his failed 2022 bid for secretary of state, said he believes that county board of supervisors should have the power to challenge election results unmolested. The timeline for election results challenges is condensed compared to typical court proceedings with the intent of ensuring that cases conclude before candidates for the challenged position take office. Still focused on conspiracy theories Trumps March 25 executive order that aims to change election rules across the nation would require documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote using a federal form and outlines a limited list of documents that can be used for that purpose. On Monday, voter advocacy groups, including the Arizona Students Association and the League of Women Voters of Arizona, sued the Trump administration to block the order, saying that it violates the U.S. Constitution, which gives only Congress and the states the power to change election law, not the president. Arizonans already have to provide proof of citizenship to register to vote after voters opted to require it in 2004. But because the federal courts have ruled the voters only have to sign a sworn statement attesting that they are citizens, Arizonans can register as a federal only voter using the federal form, but those voters can only cast ballots in federal races. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The groups challenging the executive order argued that it would place a burden on those Arizona federal only voters who dont have access to the documents required to prove their citizenship, which includes a passport, a document most people dont have and is costly and time-consuming to obtain. And Trumps executive order allows far fewer ways for voters to prove citizenship than Arizona law. While the president wants to mandate that states only accept passports, military IDs and certain state IDs or drivers licenses that indicate citizenship, Arizonas voter citizenship law allows for many more documents, including birth certificates, tribal documentation and U.S. naturalization documents. Trump and his followers have falsely claimed since he lost the presidential election in 2020, that the election was stolen from him via fraud, including by noncitizens voting. But none of them have provided proof of that, and audits and investigations have shown that noncitizen voting is exceedingly rare. In addition to the executive order, U.S. House of Representatives plans next week to consider the SAVE Act, which would require proof of citizenship to vote. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Europe has much to learn from Central Asias experience in energy transition and its innovative strategies to mitigate extreme climate variability, said the President of the European Council Antonio Costa during the Samarkand Climate Forum, Trend reports. He drove home the point that the forum's aim was to band together and tackle one of the hottest potatoes of our era - the climate crisis. The opening of the Samarkand Climate Conference is very timely indeed, as we just concluded the Plenary of the First-ever Summit between the European Union and Central Asia, formally deciding to elevate our relations to the strategic level. We committed to working together to face the global challenges we all share, and climate is one of the biggest, Costa said. He highlighted the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, stressing that it is already reshaping ecosystems, economies, and ways of living. Rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and increasing water scarcity are destabilizing energy production, agricultural security, and social stability, particularly in Central Asia. The dramatic drying of the Aral Sea is an example of what humanity can - or cannot- do, the president of the European Council remarked. However, he pointed out that these climate challenges are not just for Central Asia but for the entire world, with Europe also experiencing the costs of climate-driven disasters such as wildfires, floods, and heatwaves. He stressed the importance of climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and risk reduction as key components of joint cooperation. He also emphasized that the energy transition in Central Asia is not just an opportunity for the region but for the entire world, offering valuable lessons for Europes own energy transformation. Antonio Costa suggested that strengthening the Central Asia-Europe climate partnership could accelerate investments in clean energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable water management, ensuring a climate-resilient future for both regions. By linking water and energy management strategies in Central Asia with Europes disaster risk reduction frameworks, the two regions could create synergies that would enhance climate models, bolster infrastructure resilience, and safeguard communities from climate-induced hazards. The European Union is a reliable, predictable, and trustworthy partner. We stand ready not just as a partner but as a long-term ally in climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and sustainable prosperity, he added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Mark was poking around in an online forum for tech-company founders recently when he spotted a fawning post about Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency. As the founder of a tech company himself, Mark is part of a community of startup types in the Bay Area and considers his politics to be pretty middle of the road. He understands the instinct to want to modernize government. But Musks approach at DOGE which he saw as a slash-and-burn rampage through the federal workforce seemed, to him, absurd. He typed up a reply saying as much, arguing that DOGE is a front for purging political opponents, and he figured at least some of the other founders on the forum would agree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, Mark who we allowed to use a pseudonym to avoid retaliation was mobbed. I was just amazed by the amount of virulence that came back to me, he said. Then something else happened: Direct messages started pouring in from people thanking him for saying what they were too fearful to say themselves. One even asked to talk by phone, so long as Mark agreed never to mention his name to anyone or even enter their conversation in his Google Calendar. In both Washington and in California, a narrative has quickly emerged about Musks assault on the federal government: This is what happens when you bring the Silicon Valley playbook to D.C. As Musks young lackeys rifle through sensitive databases, conk out in makeshift bedrooms set up in government buildings and gut entire agencies, the implication seems to be that this is how its done in tech. And there is obviously a very loud corner of the tech sector that agrees. But in an industry whose workforce overwhelmingly donated to Democrats, in a region whose voters overwhelmingly backed Kamala Harris, there are also a lot of people in tech who view Musks handiwork as not just dangerous, but totally antithetical to running a healthy business, let alone the government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre just increasingly terrified to say that out loud. Not everyone in tech is supporting Elon Musk, Mark said. Its just that you dont hear their side because theyre afraid to speak up. I hate being careful like this. Im not that kind of person, said one longtime tech communications professional who initially planned to use his name in this article but was granted anonymity prior to the interview after his company leadership told him they couldnt risk the exposure. We provide the livelihood of over 100 people and all their dependents, he said. POLITICO Magazine spoke with a cross-section of investors, engineers, startup founders and public relations professionals working in tech, many of whom were granted anonymity to avoid professional or personal backlash. They all described an industry known for outspokenness and self-assurance suddenly gripped with a widespread culture of fear when it comes to criticizing Musk or DOGE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This chilling effect is, of course, being felt everywhere in the American establishment and beyond, from university campuses to powerful law firms to the halls of Congress. But speaking out can feel particularly dicey in tech now that some of the industrys most powerful investors and executives people with the power to determine whose tech startup gets funded or which workers get fired arent just cozying up to the Trump administration; theyre running it. In a statement to POLITICO Magazine, responding to concerns expressed by tech workers and leaders, White House principal deputy press secretary Harrison Fields said, DOGE is actively pursuing President Trumps agenda, and while coastal elitists and DC bureaucrats are crying foul, the American people are overwhelmingly supportive. A representative for DOGE did not respond to a request for comment. Still, Musk is increasingly seen as a liability for the GOP. A recent Fox News poll found that 58 percent of voters disapprove of DOGE, and Trump is reportedly telling his inner circle that Musk will soon depart Washington. But until that happens and maybe not even then, considering Musk is likely to remain a force in politics publicly going against him is a risk. This reticence among Silicon Valleys very large liberal contingent is a sharp turn from the way its always been. Not long ago, it was Republicans who feared coming out as conservative. When Niki Christoff started working at Google fresh off of a stint on Sen. John McCains 2008 presidential campaign, she said she was treated like a foreign-exchange student. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I used to joke that they were like, What do you guys eat for breakfast? Puppies? she said of her lefty colleagues. But the cost of being out of lockstep with the prevailing political ideology back then was a social one, Christoff said. Now, tech leaders fear losing their livelihoods or else being publicly harassed by one of the most powerful men in their industry, spurned by his allies, and attacked by his entire online army. The terror is real, said Christoff, who now consults with tech leaders through her crisis communications and political strategy firm, Christoff & Co. For tech employees, the feeling of being muzzled is particularly stark, given just how much freedom the industrys wealthy, privileged workforce has previously known. For years, as tech companies declared their commitment to diversity in the workplace, threw their support behind progressive policy issues like immigration reform and LGBTQ+ rights, and claimed to prioritize free speech, tech workers enjoyed wide latitude to speak out about injustices they saw in the world and at work. During the first Trump administration, Google employees walked off the job en masse to protest the administrations ban on people coming from Muslim-majority countries, emboldened by the fact that both their CEO Sundar Pichai and Googles co-founder Sergey Brin were right there with them. This year, both men stood dutifully on the dais behind Trump as he was sworn into office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not just their billionaire bosses who have changed. Its the tech labor market itself. One reason why tech leaders tolerated dissent during Trumps first term is because the hiring market was so competitive that companies couldnt afford to alienate talent. Now, more than half a million estimated tech workers have been laid off since 2022 and good jobs in the industry are getting harder to find. Theres a greater personal cost if you sacrifice your position, said one current Tesla employee. The employee said hes gone from being proud of where he works to apologizing for it but only in private. Were all embarrassed by [Musk] at this point, but its just quiet muttering over lunch, the employee said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not just that much of the tech world is opposed to Musks politics. Theyre also appalled by the idea that his approach is being framed as a reflection of how their industry works. Some who have worked for him argue its not even a good example of Musks own abrasive, but effective, management style, which helped him build more than one multibillion-dollar company. There are, of course, aspects of Musks DOGE strategy that feel familiar. His doomsday rhetoric, micromanagement, office sleeping arrangements, and firings followed by rehirings are part of a well-documented playbook Musk has deployed at his own companies. But in other ways, current and former employees say, his approach was different at Tesla. For one thing, said Nathan Murthy, who worked as an engineer at Tesla for nearly seven years, he hired people with expertise. Once you trust people and trust they know certain things, they can provide answers for how to build things or tear things down in your company that are consistent with the systems youve built, said Murthy, who is now head of engineering at the tech startup Verse. Murthy compared DOGEs operations to Chestertons fence, the philosophical principle that you should never tear down a fence until you know why it was put there in the first place. Theyre doing the opposite of that, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firing the experts and giving government neophytes so much power, the people who spoke to POLITICO Magazine said, is leading to sloppy mistakes that would never fly in the business world even the world of fast-moving, winner-take-all tech startups. Already, DOGEs claims about 150-year-olds collecting Social Security benefits collapsed after the acting commissioner of the Social Security Administration corrected the record. And the groups Wall of Receipts, which it uses to track spending cuts, has been riddled with errors, including one line item that mistook an $8 million ICE contract for an $8 billion one. During the first month of its existence, each of the biggest cost cuts listed on the site was later revealed to be a mistake. If Elizabeth Holmes did that shed be run out of town, said one early-stage investor, referring to the Theranos founder whos now serving an 11-year prison sentence for defrauding investors. When youre dealing with peoples lives and deaths, errors and fraud and deception land you in jail, not in the Oval Office. Suddenly gutting an organization on the assumption that it will become more efficient that way is also a catastrophically risky thing to do the investor said. You would only do that if the risk of the company failing was low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And though there are some exceptions, he added, in general, when theres a strip-down-to-the-bone cost cut, it is not followed by success. It is followed by a slow spiral of deterioration. DOGEs approach is much more of a private equity play, said Samuel Hammond, chief economist for the right-leaning tech policy think tank Foundation for American Innovation. Its sort of liquidation nation, he said, referring to the way private equity firms strip companies down for parts. While he said DOGE isnt universally praised or condemned among the conservative technologists he knows, he said more people in those circles are starting to talk about the DOGE that could have been. Even some of the crypto executives Christoff works with, who view Trump as a champion for their industry, are souring on Musks approach. They see this administration as a path to achieve their worldview, she said, but thats really different than them thinking that this is any way to run an operation effectively or efficiently or successfully. As a communications professional, though, Christoff isnt advising her clients to pipe up nor are they asking her whether they should. But she said she is seeing some cracks begin to form, driven in part by growing frustration with the way DOGEs mission is running up against tech leaders own business interests. Part of whats driving their code of silence, after all, is pure self-preservation. No cybersecurity company or IT provider wants to be blacklisted from contracts with a current or potential client as gigantic as the federal government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that instinct is increasingly at odds with the fact that DOGE is actively cutting contracts. Its a 13-figure total addressable market that theyre intentionally making smaller, she said. From a pure business perspective, these are all capitalists. It doesnt make a lot of economic sense. The more DOGEs reductions undercut their own success and Trumps the more those tech leaders might feel encouraged to speak up. I think that theres a moment where this could become safer for people to say something, Christoff said. But that time is not quite yet. The New York Times reported Thursday that the European Union may soon levy penalties against Elon Musks social media platform, X, under an E.U. law aimed at curbing disinformation, hate speech and other harmful content. In July, the E.U. released preliminary findings of an investigation that found X had violated the Digital Services Act. Specifically, the E.U. concluded that: Xs interface for so-called verified accounts was not in line with industry practice and had been abused by malicious actors to deceive users. X has created barriers that hinder transparency about advertisements, thwarting required supervision and research into emerging risks brought about by the distribution of advertising online. X doesnt comply with the Digital Services Acts rules around providing public data to researchers who can use it to study the spread of things like disinformation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New York Times, citing four people with knowledge of the E.U.s plans who declined to be identified because of the ongoing investigation, reported that penalties are expected to be announced this summer. The report has not been independently verified by MSNBC or NBC News. Earlier this year, Musk seemed to demonstrate how necessary the E.U.s precautions are when he used X to spread disinformation in hopes of swaying voters toward the far-right, Nazi-friendly Alternative for Deutschland party, or AfD, in Germanys snap elections. The platform also has apparently quashed dissent against Turkeys illiberal regime and promoted disinformation in support of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a far-right politician who stands accused of attempting a coup to say nothing of the ways its been used to spread disinformation in the U.S. These days, X is a political weapon more than anything else. And Europe is right to want to regulate it. Predictably, the E.U.s efforts to deter disinformation and hate speech have angered President Donald Trump and members of his administration, both of which are widely known to promote disinformation and hateful rhetoric online. The White House recently released a memo attacking the Digital Services Act, claiming it unfairly targets American companies and vowing that such regulations will face scrutiny from the Administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, Xs Global Government Affairs team posted a statement saying that the platform has gone above and beyond to comply with the EUs Digital Services Act, and we will use every option at our disposal to defend our business, keep our users safe, and protect freedom of speech in Europe. That seems utterly detached from the clear dangers that Musks platform has posed to democracy and, frankly, public safety. But when youre accustomed to operating free from oversight, accountability can feel like oppression. If the reports that the European Commission is considering enforcement actions against X are accurate, it represents an unprecedented act of political censorship and an attack on free speech. X has gone above and beyond to comply with the EUs Digital Services Act, and we will Global Government Affairs (@GlobalAffairs) April 4, 2025 This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Calling the governor emotional on Thursday, Floridas Republican House speaker insisted they were on the same team. House Speaker Daniel Perez, a Miami Republican, was responding to a series of outbursts the governor has had over his relationship with the House, including that it raised questions about a key initiative of his wife. Ive always considered myself to have a good relationship with him, Perez said. We are on the same team. Were all Republicans. We all care about the state of Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Perez said he hadnt spoken to the governor since Monday but insisted they had a great conversation. That day, DeSantis panned Perezs proposed sales-tax cut. That night, DeSantis lashed out at the House chamber in the governors mansion during a speech to rank-and-file GOP members. He did it again on Tuesday on his X platform and to the press. It seems the last week or so, the governor has been a little more emotional, and has been upset, Perez said. DeSantis told the Republican base that the House is offering Democrats a lifeline at a time when the Republican-controlled chamber should be trying to step on the lefts throat. He urged party members to push their state representatives to get in line with DeSantis agenda or risk that the Democrats come roaring back in the next election cycle. DeSantis pointed to the fact that the Houses champion on property insurance reform is a former Democrat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is nothing wrong with the tent of the conservative movement growing, Perez said. There are Democrats that are starting to want to join the tent of the Republican Party, of the conservative movement. Perez added: That doesnt make us liberal. Among DeSantis complaints are that the House is scrutinizing a charity created by his wife. A House committee asked for several pieces of information showing the charity was complying with state law and has yet to receive them. Perez said he believed the charity and the program it supports that is seeking to reform welfare are well-intentioned. DeSantis is trying to enshrine the welfare program into state law, giving his wife a legislative win should she run to replace him in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am concerned that they didnt give us the information that we asked for, Perez said. Hopefully we get it soon. Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau reporters Lawrence Mower and Romy Ellenbogen contributed to this report. VISTA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) An injured emu was rescued Wednesday night in Vista. Reports of an emu running loose and wandering into a yard in the 600 block of Vale View Drive prompted San Diego Humane Societys officers to respond, the animal agency said in a news release Thursday. Humane Law Enforcement and its Emergency Response Team were able to take the emu to SDHS Escondido campus. North County woman competes on dating show Farmer Wants a Wife Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The emu had injuries to its neck and right wing, according to animal officials. To ensure a safe and comfortable recovery, the emu has been placed in a fully enclosed yard where our medical staff is closely monitoring and treating their wounds, Nina Thompson with SDHS said. The animal shelters staff temporarily named the emu Claudius, who is around three years old and will remain on a 72-hour stray hold while next steps are determined. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WINDBER, Pa. A commitment to rural health, cutting-edge research and a transformative 2015 phone call have helped define Windbers hospital and its companion research institute over the past 16 years. Thomas Kurtz, the CEO behind those efforts at Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber and Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber, announced Thursday that hes retiring this spring a move that hospital officials called the end of an era and a remarkable 40-year career. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Kurtz has been a visionary leader, guiding the organizations to significant growth and development in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape, hospital officials said in a release to media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tom Kurtz Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center CEO and President Tom Kurtz plans to retire this spring after 40 years in the industry. Kurtz, a 40-year veteran of the health care industry, became the CEO of then-Windber Research Institute in 2009 and the president and CEO of then-Windber Medical Center in 2014. A year later, he was credited for contacting renowned cancer researcher Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, the richest man in medicine, and convincing him to invest in their facilities 10 years ago. I didnt know anything about Windber, Soon-Shiong said in a 2015 interview. Then when Tom got on the phone with me and told me what they did, I was fascinated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over his years at the helm, Kurtz helped drive advances in biomedical research at what is now Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber through new technology and tissue sample repository expansion. That has made the facility a leader in its field, officials said. Tom Kurtz, president and CEO of Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber Tom Kurtz, president and CEO of Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber, stands at the entrance to the hospital in this Thursday, March 25, 2021, photo. Kurtz has been a leader in the Pennsylvania Rural Health Model program and says its benefits may have saved his Somerset County hospital. Within Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber, a state-of-the-art catheterization lab was added in 2018, as well as six new off-site physical therapy sites, officials said. An orthopedic walk-in clinic was established, as well as an affiliation in the same field with Indiana Regional Medical Center in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kurtz told The Tribune-Democrat that hes proud of what his team has accomplished, but plans to embrace the opportunity to spend more time with his family. That includes his grandchildren, whom he called my two best friends. Kurtz called it an honor to serve Windbers medical and research centers, and he said it makes it easier to step down knowing both are positioned to continue thriving in the years ahead. Over the years, Ive had the privilege of working alongside a dedicated team that is truly committed to advancing patient care and research, he said. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of these organizations in the years to come. His only real regret is that he didnt meet Soon-Shiong earlier, Kurtz said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has been such an amazing, positive influence for over a decade ... stressing the importance of creating a culture of integrity and commitment to our patients, Kurtz said. Kurtzs career in the medical industry predates his time at Windber. He worked in leadership positions at several health care organizations, including the American Red Cross, Carlisle Hospital, Conemaugh Health System, Lee Regional Health System and UPMC. Tom Kurtz, president and CEO of Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber Tom Kurtz, president and CEO of Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber, stands on the hillside above the hospital in this Thursday, March 25, 2021, photo. Kurtz has been a leader in the Pennsylvania Rural Health Model program and says its benefits may have saved his Somerset County hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kurtz also played a key role in consulting and policy development, advising both the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Pennsylvania State Senate on health care issues. His contributions to the field are immeasurable, from his work in creating strategic partnerships that expanded access to care to leading clinical research efforts that have improved lives both locally and internationally, Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber officials said. A native of the Johnstown area, Kurtz holds a bachelors degree in psychology from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and a master of business administration in medical practice management degree from the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis. His commitment to service extends beyond health care, as he has been an active participant in several local and national nonprofit organizations, including serving as a trustee on the University of Pittsburghs Board of Trustees and as chairman of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown Advisory Board, Chan Soon-Shiong officials said in their media release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kurtz said he feels fortunate to have gotten the chance to spend the last 30 years of his health care career in his hometown. I never imagined the personal satisfaction and sense of purpose my career choice would provide, he added. Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber communications manager Natalie Samuel said its too soon to discuss plans for the facilities next CEO. The search will be announced at a later time, she said. A former Boston police officer is facing a slew of criminal charges after authorities say he shot his wife, a Brockton teacher, in front of their young daughter inside their Pennsylvania home earlier this week. Grant Edward Callender, 59, was arraigned earlier this week on charges of attempted homicide, two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, endangering the welfare of children, recklessly endangering another person, and resisting arrest, according to an arrest report from the South Abington Township Police Department. Former Boston Police officer is charged with shooting wife in front of 12-year-old daughter in familys Pennsylvania... Posted by Drew Karedes Boston 25 on Friday, April 4, 2025 Wolfe confirmed to Boston 25 that Grant Callender was a 16-year veteran of the Boston Police Department who retired in 2010. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers responded to 410 Northern Spy Road in South Abington Township in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, just before 9 p.m. on Tuesday after a 12-year-old girl called 911 to report that her father had just shot her mother, town Police Chief Paul Wolfe told Boston 25 News. Courtesy: FOX56 WOLF TV The shooting victim, Kerry Callender, was found suffering from gunshot wounds to her face, chest, and back. She was rushed to a local hospital, where she was said to be in critical but stable condition. Brockton Public Schools confirmed to Boston 25 that Kerry works as a remote teacher for the Brockton Virtual Learning Academy. We are in close contact with her family, providing them with support however we can, and we are hopeful that she will make a quick and complete recovery, a BPS spokesperson said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 12-year-old girl told investigators that her parents had been fighting a lot lately and are getting a divorce, according to the police report. Before the shooting, the girl reported that her father threatened to beat her mother with an electric guitar and stated, This is the end. Callender then allegedly pulled out a black handgun and shot his wife in front of his daughter. After the young girl fled the home at request of her mother, she heard two or three more gunshots, according to police. The couples other two children, ages 14 and 15, also made it out of the home safely and were unharmed. When emergency and SWAT vehicles surrounded the home, Callender barricaded himself inside and refused to surrender, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A standoff ensued and lasted more than four hours before police said Callender agreed to unload his firearm and exit the home. Courtesy: FOX56 WOLF TV Callender was taken into custody without incident shortly after 2:30 a.m. Wednesday and was transported to the Lackawanna County Processing Center, where he was released into the custody of the local sheriffs office. Boston 25 has reached out to Boston police for comment on his arrest. An investigation into the shooting remains ongoing. Callender is being held without bail. 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 BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) An Endicott man has been sentenced to six years in New York State Prison for illegally possessing a firearm related to a drug and gun bust in Endicott last August. 30-year-old Joshua A. Mazyck, of Endicott, was handed the sentence in Broome County Court Friday, April 4. Following the six years in prison, Mazyck is subject to five years of post-release supervision. On August 21, 2024, officers from the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force searched a second-floor apartment at 1005 Pine St in the Village of Endicott and found 1.4 grams of cocaine, 127 fentanyl pills, $160 in U.S. currency, 150 mg of Pregabalin, and a loaded Ruger Max-9 9mm semi-automatic handgun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WIVT - News 34. HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) Another person was arrested and is facing charges in connection to a long-term fentanyl trafficking investigation in Evansville. 31-year-old Dareion Ashford was booked into the Vanderburgh County Jail at just after midnight on Friday on charges of Manufacture/Dealing Methamphetamine and Dealing Cocaine or Narcotic Drug. According to an affidavit, from 2018 to 2025, the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force received multiple tips from sources stating several individuals within Evansville were distributing large amounts of heroin and fentanyl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The information also included that the dealers all had family ties. Surveillance was conducted and intel gathered showed one of the people that was involved was Ashford. Over 10 pounds of Methamphetamine seized during traffic stop in Posey County On November 27, 2023, Indiana State Police made a traffic stop on a white Dodge Charger for allegedly speeding. This led to the recovery of over ten pounds of meth. Two of the people named was Demetria Gray and Shawnunique Phillips. Through an investigation, EPD says they learned Gray was tasked with driving to an address on Mora Lane to meet with another person, by Ashford. EPD says a detective learned Gray would pick up controlled substances and was told to take it to the 100 block of N. Bell Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPD says the detective already conducted surveillance on the address and knew at least three people were at the address frequently. The investigation found that Gray made the same trip several times before getting stopped. EPD also says Grays phone had communication with Ashford. The affidavit goes on to say the detective found that the Mora Lane address listed was based in St. Louis, and Gray would meet with an individual there to pick up the ten pounds of meth to take back to Evansville for Ashford. This is in connection to a previous article published by Eyewitness News in regard to this investigation. Click here to read more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). NEW YORK Mayor Eric Adams waved off concerns at a Thursday candidate forum that his decision to seek reelection as an independent could wind up giving a boost to Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa in this falls general election by fracturing the Democratic vote. Adams, asked at the packed Midtown forum whether hes concerned his move could benefit Sliwa, argued New Yorkers arent looking for the type of buffoonery offered by the Republican, whos the founder of the Guardian Angels and a perennial political candidate. If we had 20 people in the race, it would never help Curtis Sliwa be mayor, Adams said in what marked his first mayoral candidate forum appearance of the 2025 cycle. Lets be clear: Its going to be running on real issues, Curtis does not have any platform, there is no polling that will ever show that buffoonery is what people want in electoral politics, so Curtis is not an issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sliwa, for his part, scoffed at that criticism and said he can benefit from Adams decision to run as an independent. The cat-loving candidate, who netted about 28% support in the 2021 mayoral election against Adams, argued the incumbent and the eventual Democratic nominee are going to end up fighting with each other. Its going to be a bloodbath and I think a lot of Democrats are not going to be happy with that and opt for Curtis Sliwa instead, who knows more about this city than all of them combined, Sliwa told the Daily News. Adams announcement hell run as an independent has sent shock waves through the Democratic mayoral primary field, which is currently being dominated by ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whos polling as the front-runner. In Thursdays forum, hosted by the Rev. Al Sharptons National Action Network, Cuomo committed to serving a full term as mayor should he be elected, saying the only instance he wouldnt is if i die. The question has come up amid speculation that Cuomo, who resigned as governor in 2021 amid sexual misconduct accusations he denies, could mount a bid for his old job in the 2026 gubernatorial race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also looming large over Thursdays forum was President Trump, whose federal spending cuts and campaign against migrants and DEI measures have come under sharp criticism in New York. Cuomo vowed to fight the president after being asked by Sharpton how hell push back on his administrations efforts to roll back equity, diversity and inclusion efforts nationwide. I think the existential threat for New York and for this country is Donald Trump, Cuomo said. I dont think you can fight him hard enough. Adams, on the other hand, has said he wont criticize Trump in public. It was Trumps Justice Department that pressed for a dismissal of Adams corruption charges in a way that many believed left him beholden to Trump and his policies. Those charges were dismissed Wednesday. Adams has denied any quid pro quo, but acknowledged Thursday he opted to run as an independent due to the long shadow his indictment cast over the Democratic primary. Adams response to the Trump pushback issue was more oblique in its criticism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im going to fight any White House that is not going to benefit our city, including the previous one that cost us $7 billion for dealing the migrant and asylum seeker crisis that should not have came off of our backs, Adams said, swiping at President Biden over what he sees as a lack of federal support under his tenure. Other candidates at the forum slammed Trump actions as well, with many specifically calling out his actions around DEI. Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, a newcomer to the mayoral race, pointed out in her forum appearance she has put in a resolution to condemn Trumps stance on DEI, while Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani called the presidents actions on the programs an attack. With Adams out of the primary, some attention is already turning to Novembers general mayoral election. Unlike the primary, which uses a ranked-choice voting system, the general election uses a traditional system making it possible votes could be split between candidates. Adams will be facing the winner of the Democratic primary, Sliwa, fellow independent Jim Walden and potentially a yet-to-be-determined Working Families Party candidate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani, a democratic socialist surging in the polls, called the mayors independent switch a betrayal. I do think that were going to have a new mayor in this city, and I do not think that mayor is going to be either Eric Adams or Curtis Sliwa, Mamdani said outside the forum. Adams independent flip also gave pause to Brooklyn Rev. Herbert Daughtry, an influential civil rights leader who Adams refers to as his lifelong mentor. If thats his decision, then I wish him well, but in terms of what Im going to do, that requires time and Ive got to consult with my family, but I will always wish him well, Daughtry, who has been a steadfast Adams supporter for decades, told The News outside the forum. _____ TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 4. Uzbekistan and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) discussed digitalization and document exchange within the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, Trend reports. The matter was reviewed at a meeting between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the UNECE Tatiana Molchan during the Samarkand Climate Forum. The President of Uzbekistan highlighted the crucial role of the UNECE in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, as well as its expert support in areas such as transportation, innovation, the textile industry, energy, ecology, and gender equality. Discussions also touched upon Uzbekistan's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The two sides discussed the implementation of regional and national projects and the practical advancement of initiatives proposed by President Mirziyoyev at the first summit of the UN Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA) in Baku in November 2023. The adoption of the SPECA Development Concept for 2030, proposed by Uzbekistan, was noted with satisfaction. This includes the signing of a roadmap with the UNECE to simplify trade procedures and the ongoing implementation of measures related to digitalization and document exchange within the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. The importance of the swift launch of the SPECA Programs Target Fund was emphasized during the discussions. Earlier this year, with UNECE's assistance, Uzbekistan joined the Aarhus Convention, ensuring public access to reliable environmental information. Ongoing work also includes Uzbekistans potential accession to the Air Convention and the Convention on the Transboundary Effects of Industrial Accidents. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Del. Jheanelle Wilkins (D-Montgomery), left, poses with Eric and Linda Carpenter-Grantham at the State House on March 6. (Photo by William J. Ford/Maryland Matters) Butterflies could soon be appearing on Maryland drivers licenses. Thats because lawmakers are close to approving Erics ID Law, which would require the Motor Vehicle Administration to put the butterfly logo above the words hidden disability on drivers licenses, identification cards, even moped licenses, for people with a nonapparent disability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill is named for named after Eric Carpenter-Grantham, a 20-year-old Montgomery County resident with autism, one of the nonapparent disabilities identified in House Bill 707, which also includes anyone with developmental or intellectual disabilities that are not immediately noticeable. There is also a Senate version, Senate Bill 618. A sample of a Maryland drivers license with a butterfly that represents the hidden disability logo. (Courtesy of Linda Carpenter-Grantham) The House Tuesday give final approval to the Senate bill, which has already been sent to the goveror. The Senate unanimously passed the House version Thursday with minor technical amendments that need to be accepted by the House before it can be sent to the governor, too. The measures are sponsored by Carpenter-Granthams District 20 representatives, Montgomery County Democrats Sen. William C. Smith Jr. and Del. Jheanelle Wilkins, and co-sponsored by Dels. David Moon and Lorig Charkoudian, among others. Carpenter-Grantham and his mother, Linda Carpenter-Grantham, traveled to Annapolis last month, when the House and Senate approved both measures in their respective chambers on the same day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The significance of that bill is that it was an idea that came from a constituent. We went out to coffee, explained some of the concerns with their situation, and thats the majesty of this process, Smith said in an interview Tuesday. Eric and Linda are just amazing people that have really leaned into this process. Its very rare where you get a story, where you can start from a small seed of an idea, and then it grows to like an actual piece of legislation thats going to impact a lot of people. PFAS bills presumed dead A bill that would have banned certain PFAS chemicals from pesticides in the state is dead for this year after environmental groups and safety advocates pulled their support, the sponsor of the Senate bill said. The groups initially backed the bills, House Bill 386 and Senate Bill 345, which would have banned the sale of pesticides containing PFAS, chemicals that have been linked to serious health issues and are known as forever chemicals because they are extremely slow to break down in the environment and the body. But the groups reneged after the definition of PFAS compounds was narrowed in the legislation, a change that was backed by some pesticide manufacturers. Under the amendment, PFAS would need to have two fluorinated carbon atoms, a departure from state law, which currently requires only one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advocates worried that more-narrow definition could be used in other areas of state law dealing with PFAS. That disagreement ultimately sank the bill, said Sen. Benjamin Brooks (D-Baltimore County), who sponsored the Senate version. The supporters of the bill, they are just that entrenched, that they just cannot go with the double carbon, Brooks said. So, it would be better to hold off for this session maybe even next session and come back. Its the second high-profile PFAS measure to stumble in the closing weeks of the legislative session. Senate Bill 732 and House Bill 909 would have limited PFAS levels in the sewage sludge that comes from wastewater treatment plants, and is often applied to farm fields as fertilizer. But lawmakers said they could not reach agreement with treatment facilities. Bonnie Raindrop, coordinator of Marylands Smart on Pesticides Coalition, said she was grateful to hear that the pesticide bills shrunken PFAS definition would not advance into law. She is fearful that President Donald Trumps Environmental Protection Agency will soon consider the narrowed definition at the request of chemical industry groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are glad that they wont be able to point to Maryland and this bill as a justification for harmonizing the definition to the 2-carbon definition, Raindrop said in a statement. Senate amends health education bill The Senate Education, Energy and the Environment Committee had issues with some of the content of House Bill 161. How much of an issue? The committees amendment struck everything between Section 1. Be it enacted on the first page to Section 2. And bi itfurther enacted on the final page. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX HB161 once prohibited parents from opting their children out of required age-appropriate instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity, drawing scathing criticism from House Republicans who argued that those discussions are best held at home, not in the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Senate amendmments, filed Wednesday, remove all the controversial provisions. Now, the bill simply affirms that counties must align their curriculum to state standards and creates a process to correct county curriculum if it is out of alignment with those standards. The Senate voted to approve the committee amendment Thursday morning, overhauling the legislation and removing the required instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation language in the process. It gave final approval to the amended bill laterin the day, on a 33012 vote. The committee saw an opportunity to create a broader and clearer process, Sen. Mary Washington (D-Baltimore City and Baltimore County) said when defending the legislation later Thursday. While this started in one place, it sort of highlighted a different broader issue and frankly it wasnt really clear what locals could do if there was some disparity or discrepancy. The initial version of the legislation arose in response to a Carroll County school board decision to remove certain curriculum related to LGBTQ+ issues. The House has passed versions of the bill to boost instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation, but those efforts have fallen short in the Senate so far. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minority Whip Justin Ready (R- Frederick and Carroll) said Thursday that he appreciated the changes to the bill, although he ultimately voted against it. I appreciate that this bill was not moved forward in the way that it came over, because as it was, I think it would not have been the right move for the state, Ready said. The genesis of this legislation, which has been about an ongoing three-year saga, has been a disagreement about whats appropriate for different age groups in the context of sexuality and family life, Ready said. Now the bill tried to do a lot of things that are not in the bill anymore I do appreciate that a very egregious part of the bill, which was going to try to say that parents couldnt opt their children out of some of that instruction at all, was struck from this bill. Despite the heavy amendments, Senate Republicans still voted against the bill Thursday. It now goes back to the House, which will have to decide whether it will accept the changes and send it on to the governor, or let the bill die. A Maryland mother recently received two calls: One was from her husband, who said he had been pulled over after finishing his construction shift. The other was from Homeland Security, telling her she had just 10 minutes to pick up the couples 5-year-old son who was in the car with her husband. Jennifer Stefania Vasquez Sura raced to her husbands side to hurriedly place their crying child in a car seat and say goodbye to her husband as he also wept. If you are strong, I will be strong, were the last words he said to Vasquez Sura when he was handcuffed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now the shockwaves of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcias March 12 arrest and subsequent deportation to El Salvador which the Trump administration says was a mistake have spread well beyond the family and are rattling the south-central Maryland community. District Judge Paula Xinis ruled Friday that Abrego Garcia, a sheet metal worker, should be returned to the United States no later than 11:59 p.m. on Monday. The Trump administration has appealed the ruling, meaning the case will soon be heard by the US Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, according to a court filing. Years prior to his arrest, Abrego Garcia had been deemed a gang member by the Prince Georges County Police Department in part because he was wearing a Chicago Bulls hat and a hoodie, and on the word of an informant who said that he was an active member of the MS-13 gang an allegation his attorneys continually denied, according to a recent court filing. But in 2019, an immigration judge granted him protected status, prohibiting the federal government from sending him to El Salvador. Abrego Garcia, who attorneys say fled gang violence in El Salvador more than a decade ago, has been sent to CECOT, the countrys notorious mega prison. His son, who has autism, has been finding Abrego Garcias work shirts to smell his fathers familiar scent after his arrest, Vasquez Sura said in an affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a blink of an eye, our three children lost their father and I lost the love of my life, Vasquez Sura said at a press conference in Maryland Friday. Like many communities across the US, the Trump administrations immigration crackdown has sent a wave of fear through the Central American community in Maryland, whose members told CNN they have been unfairly targeted by the administration or labeled as gang members without evidence. Salvadoran community members, including those who hold green cards or visas, say they have felt unsafe since Abrego Garcias arrest as they could at a moments notice be deported to a country where they face life-threatening danger. Weve seen folks get deported that under the law would not be deported, said green card holder Jorge Perez, a 25-year-old community organizer in Prince Georges County, Maryland. What does it say about people with green cards everywhere here in the country? Were doing the right thing. Were following the system. Were doing it as the book says, but then the people in charge are not following their end of the deal. Abrego Garcias case appears to mark the first time the administration has admitted an error related to its recent deportation flights to El Salvador, which are now at the center of a fraught legal battle. But the administration still insists he should remain in detention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The individual in question is a member of the brutal MS-13 gang - we have intelligence reports that he is involved in human trafficking, US Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement to CNN Friday. Whether he is in El Salvador or a detention facility in the U.S., he should be locked up. During the Friday hearing, Judge Xinis appeared skeptical about Abrego Garcias alleged ties to the MS-13 gang, saying she had not seen sufficient evidence to that effect. When someone is accused of membership in such a violent and predatory organization, it comes in the form of an indictment, complaint, criminal proceeding that has a robust process, she said. Immigration policy experts say the case is consistent with how Immigration and Customs Enforcement has been operating under the new administration: The goal is meeting quotas, rather than targeted enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What this case really highlights is how ICE has no regard for due process, said Cathryn Jackson, public policy director at CASA, an organization that provides legal services to immigrants in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Georgia. They do not care if you get your day in court. They do not care whether you are guilty or not. Their job right now is to get everyone out. To cope with uncertainty two months into Trumps second term, one of the largest Salvadoran communities in the US is banding together to advocate for their families and prepare for the worst. Second-grade teacher Yakie Palma is pictured in the classroom. Portions of this image have been obscured by CNN to remove identifying information of Palma's workplace. - Courtesy Yakie Palma Marylands Salvadoran community relives surge in hateful rhetoric When a wave of Salvadorans first migrated to Maryland, there was a stereotype that they were affiliated with gangs like MS-13, Perez said. Use of the harmful trope somewhat declined as the hard-working immigrants positively contributed to their communities and excelled in their careers by starting small businesses throughout the area. To see those arguments come back after weve established ourselves here and have shown our communities that we are people that wanted to see our communities do better its disappointing and its angering, Perez told CNN from Langley Park, where a large population of Central American migrants resides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is enough? Thats a question Perezs community has for the administration as they follow a legal path to US residency yet still could face deportation to a country they fled, he said. An estimated 2.5 million people of Salvadoran origin live in the US making them the third-largest Hispanic population in the country as of 2021, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of the US Census Bureaus American Community Survey. Maryland is home to the third-largest Salvadoran American population in the country most concentrated in Montgomery and Prince Georges counties, according to George Mason University. Theres lots of fear because you see every day that theres ICE movement or ICE activity somewhere in the state, whether its Montgomery County, whether its here in Prince Georges County, Perez said. Its traumatizing, Perez said of images and videos circulating online showing ICE suddenly arresting Central Americans he says do not pose a threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many Salvadorans come to the US seeking a better life after escaping gang violence and poverty in the country, said Yakie Palma, a second-grade teacher at a local public school. The US placed El Salvador under Temporary Protected Status designation in 2001, initially due to environmental disaster following two earthquakes. The designation has been renewed several times and will remain through at least September 9, 2026. The designation means an individual also cannot be detained by DHS on the basis of his or her immigration status in the United States, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Palma said her students Salvadoran parents are now terrified to do everyday tasks like pick up their children from school. The young students are also anxious, depressed and sleep deprived, which is impacting their performance on exams and assignments, she said. The students feel safe speaking with Palma in the classroom because she shares their Salvadoran identity, Palma said. One morning last week, a 7-year-old student came into the classroom tearing up and with dark circles under her eyes. Palma asked her if she was alright, and she declined to speak with her at first. But after Palma sent her to the classrooms calm down corner to play with toys, the student told her that she was afraid she would be deported. Thats despite the student being born in the United States, Palma said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Countless questions the community has about why Abrego Garcia was deported have been left unanswered, according to Perez. Abrego Garcia was mistakenly deported to El Salvador because of an administrative error, but he cant be returned because hes now in Salvadoran custody, the Trump administration argued in a court filing Monday. Now we are scared that we could falsely be deported for no apparent reason, Palma said. Judge Xinis on Friday repeatedly raised issue with Abrego Garcias removal to El Salvador, given the ruling granting him protected status in 2019. Xinis said Abrego Garcia was apprehended last month without legal basis and deported without justification of legal basis. Salvadoran American Yakie Palma is pictured with her parents. - Courtesy Yakie Palma Families prepare to leave loved ones behind During President Donald Trumps first administration, Perezs mother was detained by local police officers in Prince Georges County, who then turned her over to ICE. In an earlier incident, Perez stopped attending some of his high school classes after witnessing ICE agents show up outside his familys apartment early one morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This time around, Perez is afraid his green card will suddenly get revoked and hell have to leave his family behind. Because of his moms experience, Perez now works to educate his community and teach them their rights as immigrants. To prepare for potential deportation, Perez advises families in his community to ready legal documents and ensure their children have a designated legal guardian. If there is no signed warrant, he tells them not to open their doors when an immigration officer comes knocking. Oftentimes this is a reality or something parents dont want to hear. No one ever wants to prepare to lose their child, Perez said. No one wants to prepare to one day not come home. As for Palma, she tells the students who are afraid for their families that they should always advocate for their loved ones. When I talk to my students about whats happening, I tell them that education is important. It is important for us to educate ourselves on whats going on and try to advocate for what you believe in and advocate for your family, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers, a union that Abrego Garcia is a member of, encouraged the public to empathize with his familys situation. We all need to imagine if this were to happen to us, one of our family members, one of our friends, taken into custody, illegally deported and not being able to reach out to your loved ones, said SMART general president Michael Coleman during the Friday press conference. Deported without any sign of due process a pillar in which this country was founded. Meanwhile, Jackson said CASA is working on three bills to help strengthen immigrant rights in Maryland. The Protecting Sensitive Locations Act aims to limit ICE access to places like schools and hospitals. Another bill, the Maryland Data Privacy Act, prevents ICE from accessing state and local agency data without a warrant. And the Maryland Values Act ends the 287(g) program, which allows local police to act as ICE agents. This is not the first time our communities have been under attack. We survived for years in the past, Perez said. And we can do it again. This story has been updated with additional information. CNNs Michael Williams contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com BRUSSELS (AP) European NATO allies and Canada on Friday said they are willing to ramp up defense spending but are cool on American demands for the size of their military budgets, particularly given U.S. President Donald Trumps readiness to draw closer to Russian leader Vladimir Putin. U.S. allies have spent billions of dollars more on defense since Putin ordered a full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago, but almost a third of them still don't meet NATOs target of at least 2% of their gross domestic product. Trump has said that U.S. allies should commit to spending at least 5%, but that would require investment at an unprecedented scale. According to NATO figures, the U.S. was projected to have spent 3.38% last year, the only ally whose spending has dropped over the last decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is important that we all agree that Russia is a threat. If not, I dont know why we should always increase more and more defense spending, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly told reporters at NATO headquarters in Brussels. NATO leaders said at a summit last year that Russia "remains the most significant and direct threat to Allies security. Trumps public rehabilitation of Putin, who had become an international pariah indicted for war crimes, has disturbed U.S. allies, and they believe that the decision to rule out NATO membership for Ukraine weakened Kyivs hand at the negotiating table before peace talks have even begun. Beyond that, Europe and Canada were alarmed last month when the United States split with European allies by refusing to blame Russia for its invasion of Ukraine in votes on three U.N. resolutions seeking an end to the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Washington isn't insisting that its allies hit the 5% spending target overnight, but we think thats what NATO allies need to be spending for NATO to face the threats that itself has identified and articulated. Rubio said that the extra spending is required to beef up military capabilities. We are as involved in NATO today as we have ever been, and we intend to continue to be. But it has to be a real alliance. And that means that our alliance partners have to increase their own capabilities, he said. Asked whether that the U.S. would also match the 5% target, Rubio said: Sure. Were heading there now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement France has set itself an objective of 3%-3.5%, and we are preparing to reach 3%-3.5%, which is about the level of American defense spending, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said. France was estimated to be spending 2.06% last year. He said that new funds should be spent on European rather than American equipment. In recent years, European allies placed around two-thirds of their equipment orders with U.S. defense companies. Even as the Trump administration demands that defense spending be ramped up, the presidents tariff war is roiling stock markets and is likely to damage economic growth around the world, including among U.S. allies at NATO. Article 2 of NATOs founding treaty states that allies will seek to eliminate conflict in their international economic policies and will encourage economic collaboration between any or all of them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked whether the tariffs constitute a breach of the treaty, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said: No, I dont think so. We have seen in the past many examples of differences of view, of fights over tariffs. This has happened before without that being in violation of Article 2. Pressed on how allies might provide for their security, if they no longer have budget space, Rutte said: I dont think Im helping this alliance by commenting on something which is not really part of alliance policy, and that is to make sure that we can defend ourselves. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said that NATO members are working on setting a new spending target, to be announced at the next summit in June. But he said that 5% is of course much more than the U.S. itself spends and its a very high ambition and we are not ready to commit to a number at this time. Just as its important to spend more, its also important to spend more smartly. Calling in sick from work is not just a one-off episode in Europe. Its now become a widespread trend among employees, making the sick man monicker thats chased European economies all too real. Take France, for instance. The number of people taking sick leave has risen so sharply in recent years that it has figured into the French budget as an economic issue with a billion-euro price tag. German employees take over 19 days off due to illness, marking a record high when the economy is riddled with challenges. Its costing the economy 200 billion annually, or the equivalent of 4.5% of the German GDP. The picture isn't too different in the Nordics, where work-life balance is embedded into the culture. In fact, Norway is leading the charge in terms of absenteeism, with the number of sick days taken by workers reaching a 15-year high, Bloomberg reported in December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike vacation days, which employees are entitled to a specific number of, sick days are taken on a need basis. There are limitations on how and when people utilize them across different parts of Europe. But as the rate of sickness-related absences spikes, theyre starting to hurt economies grappling with worker shortages and low productivity. In the U.K., employee sickness has cost the economy 30 billion over five years, according to an IPPR report from July. Leaders are paying more attention now than ever: former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called the sick note culture a threat to the social safety net. Increasing sickness absence levels in the U.K. cause not only an enormous cost to the economy but significant implications for businesses, which are left short-staffed and with major skills gaps in their workforces, Lydia Christie, legal director at law firm Howard Kennedy, told Fortune. This also adds burden to those staff at work who are required to try to fill the gaps. What is the matter with Europe, and why is sickness-linked absenteeism such a problem in the region? Why is so much of Europe on sick leave? The factors differ depending on where you look, but they are related to one or more of the following: mental health, an overly generous welfare system, and cultural factors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People are not just taking more sick leaves, they are also absent for longer. The COVID-19 pandemic drew peoples attention to physical and mental health concerns, such as long-term sickness, depression, and anxiety, which have now become a big driver of workplace absenteeism. Thats also set off a larger problem of worker inactivity in the U.K. Europe has always offered generous workplace welfare benefits, making it an example for other regions to aspire to. But those perks might be hurting it. In France, for example, the national health insurance kicks in on the fourth day someone is out sick and pays them about 50% of their salary within a certain threshold. Germany allows workers to take up to six weeks of paid sick leave, which critics have slammed as too much. There are also broader cultural factors at play, too. Gallup found in 2022 that Europeans work to live rather than love to work, resulting in lower employee engagement than in other parts of the world. Top executives have noticed employees lax attitudes trickle down to the workplace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nicolai Tangen, the CEO of Norways $1.6 trillion sovereign wealth fund, said last year that Europeans dont work as hard as their American peers and lack career ambition in their quest for work-life balance. Absenteeism isnt helping anyoneneither companies nor the economy. But if theyre taken when employees genuinely need them, they improve productivity, said OECDs employment expert Christopher Prinz. We want people who are sick to be on sick leave. Theres a strong argument for sickness schemes actually helping productivity, health and labour market participation, he told the Financial Times in November. Countries must strike a delicate balance between encouraging employees to take sick leave and dissuading them from exploiting it, which can result in economic strain. But this might be the key to Europe's brewing productivity battle, making it all the more crucial for policymakers and companies to play the cards right. A version of this story was originally published on Fortune.com on Dec. 5, 2024. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com Europe must establish a clear roadmap in coordination with the United States to gradually take on more of the continents defense responsibilities, Finlands Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen told the Financial Times (FT). Hakkanen noted that Europe cannot afford a disjointed transition in defense capabilities, which could provide Russia with an opportunity to exploit any gaps in the region's security. Hakkanen stressed that the burden of conventional defense capabilities must be shifted to European taxpayers to ensure a more balanced burden-sharing with the U.S. As European capitals engage in discussions about scaling up their military capabilities, there is concern that the U.S. may reduce its support more quickly than Europe can increase its own defense spending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commenting on the situation, Hakkanen pointed out that many countries in the alliance fear the U.S. will pivot away from Europe, focusing more on the Indo-Pacific region, before Europe is fully prepared to take on the increased responsibilities. "...The key question is do we have this joint road map, a timetable . . . so that there will be no window of opportunity for Russia, if the US is shifting the balance too early and Europe is not fast enough." NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte reassured allies that the U.S. has no plans for a sudden withdrawal from Europe, but any reduction in forces would be coordinated with European partners. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also indicated that while President Donald Trump supports NATO, he expects European allies to develop a "realistic pathway" to reduce reliance on American taxpayers. According to NATO officials, Europe currently depends heavily on the U.S. for critical defense assets such as air and missile defense systems, long-range precision missiles, and command and control infrastructure. NATO allies also rely on the U.S. for heavy-lift aircraft necessary for quickly moving armored forces. Hakkanen stressed the urgency of these discussions, noting that Germany and other nations are working to establish a clear timeline with the U.S. on the transition of defense responsibilities. The Finnish Defense Minister warned that Europe faces two significant challenges: Russias ongoing military advances, even with potential peace in Ukraine, and the U.S.' strategic shift toward the Indo-Pacific region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And were now starting to see the signs that they (the US) are really starting to do this conventional power shift." Read also: US to know whether Russia serious about peace with Ukraine in coming weeks, Rubio says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. US president Donald Trumps 25% tariff on foreign-made cars imported into the US was implemented on Thursday, with a 25% levy on imported auto parts due to come into effect from 3 May onwards. This has dealt a severe blow to the worldwide car industry, with potential decreases in investment, and job losses and plant closures looming. Euronews spoke to the Secretary General of the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA) , Benjamin Krieger, about what impact these tariffs could have on the global auto supply industry. CLEPA acts as a link between the policy sphere in Europe and the automotive supply industry. US tariffs could impact auto supply investments Krieger highlighted that these tariffs have the potential to significantly increase the cost of production for auto supply companies. This is particularly since the industry is very globally integrated, with European auto supply companies often having investments in manufacturing facilities in the US, Europe, Canada, Mexico and Asia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sometimes components cross multiple borders. If we introduce a tariff between where the vehicle is manufactured and where the inputs come from, that increases the cost and often, it's the automotive suppliers that have to absorb this cost, he said. These extra costs could also have a severe impact on investments in the industry, while also causing layoffs down the line. Increased cost for production certainly will have a consequence for investments in the industry and in the long run also on plants and employment. We are already an industry with very small, very slim profit margins. This additional negative impact will lead to further cost pressure, will lead to closure of factories, will lead to loss of employment, certainly, Krieger warned. Related Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The automotive supply industry could now have some hard decisions to make. For suppliers, we either have to relocate production and abandon investments potentially that have been made in the past years, that we absorb cost or that we lose market share. So there is no good solution right now from our perspective, Krieger said. The introduction of these tariffs also threatens the success of the auto supply industry so far, according to Krieger. Theres a real risk that we are going to lose what we have built in the last decades, he added. How should the EU react to these new tariffs? Regarding how the EU should react to these tariffs, Krieger said that it was essential for the bloc to provide some clarity on how to proceed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We need to better understand what the way forward looks like. We need clarity on tariffs that will be applied, what these mean for our trade relationships, and then we can also better quantify what the problem is, and what the impact will be on different European countries. However, Krieger also emphasised the importance of improving the European auto supply industrys competitiveness within Europe, in terms of manufacturing, employment and innovation. Within the EU, countries like Germany that have a thriving auto industry could be hit harder by US tariffs than other member states, subsequently pushing them to seek buyers in other markets. I would hope for a measured response from the European Union, that we show unity in that situation, that we try to come to agreements with the US, but at the same time that we are serious about our strategic independence, Krieger said. By Sabine Siebold, Daphne Psaledakis and Lili Bayer BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The United States will know in a matter of weeks if Russia is serious about peace with Ukraine, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday, after European allies accused Moscow of stalling over the Trump administration's call for a ceasefire. U.S. President Donald Trump, who has promised to bring a quick end to the three-year-old war, has for weeks said he believes Russia's Vladimir Putin is committed to peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sources have told Reuters the White House has grown wary of Putin's intentions in recent days, although Trump continues to signal publicly his belief that Putin wants to end the war. "We will know soon enough, in a matter of weeks, not months, whether Russia is serious about peace or not. I hope they are," Rubio said at the end of a two-day NATO meeting. "If this is dragging things out, President Trump's not going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations about negotiations," Rubio said. "We're testing to see if the Russians are interested in peace. Their actions - not their words, their actions - will determine whether they're serious or not, and we intend to find that out sooner rather than later." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moscow rejected a U.S. proposal in March for a full 30-day ceasefire after Ukraine said it would agree. The warring sides then agreed to a limited pause in attacks on each other's energy infrastructure, which both accuse the other of violating. Washington says it is still in talks with both sides. 'WE SEE YOU' European allies want Washington to demand Moscow prove it is serious by signing up to a ceasefire, with some suggesting that an explicit deadline should be set. Moscow "owes an answer to the United States" which had "worked very hard to come up with a mediation effort and a ceasefire proposal," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement British Foreign Minister David Lammy said Putin "continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet". "He could accept a ceasefire now, he continues to bombard Ukraine, its civilian population, its energy supplies. We see you, Vladimir Putin, we know what you are doing," Lammy said. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Putin's talk of negotiations was "nothing but empty promises" and the Russian leader was "playing for time by raising ever new demands". The foreign ministers of Canada and Estonia were among those calling for timelines for Russia to accept a ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A senior State Department official said late on Thursday that there was not necessarily a consensus on a timeline for increasing pressure on Russia, but there was a recognition that "the sooner the better". "There was consensus that Russia needs to do more, that Russia should agree to a ceasefire." European faith in the U.S. as the continent's ultimate protector against any attack from Russia has been shaken over the past months by Trump's outreach to Moscow. Asked whether ministers got reassurances from Rubio that Washington will not make concessions to Russia that would be bad for European interests, Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide told Reuters: "I felt that the room had a broad agreement on where the red lines are." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked the same question, a senior European diplomat said: "I would say that he (Rubio) said all the right things. But the point is whether there is enough trust left between the U.S. and its allies." (Reporting by Sabine Siebold, Benoit Van Overstraeten, Andrew Gray, Lili Bayer, Daphne Psaledakis, Ingrid Melander, Charlotte Van Campenhout, Makini Brice;Writing by Ingrid Melander;Editing by Peter Graff) Apr. 4An Eva man out on bond for multiple counts of allegedly possessing child pornography was arrested Friday and charged with two counts of first-degree sexual abuse, according to the Priceville Police Department. Craig Anthony Knox, 46, was arrested in the 4000 block of Alabama 55 East and was transported to Morgan County Jail, where he was being held in lieu of a $60,000 bond, according to police. Police said the two new charges stem from an investigation they began in February 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a police affidavit, On Feb. 15, 2024, a report was taken on a possible inappropriate or illegal relationship with a child. "A search warrant was conducted on Craig Anthony Knox's residence and a Galaxy Tab A8 was seized," the affidavit said. "A search warrant was obtained for the Galaxy Tablet A8 and from that search, the listed images were found." The affidavit said the tablet contained a visual depiction of a person under the age of 17 years engaged in sexual activity. Knox was arrested March 21 of this year and charged with nine counts of possessing child sexual abuse material and six counts of transmitting obscene material to a child and was released on a $925,000 bond the same day. His jury trial on the child pornography charges is set for Sept. 15 in Morgan County Circuit Judge Charles Elliott's courtroom, according to court records. Knox was an 18-year veteran firefighter and supervisor at Hartselle Fire & Rescue before resigning in February 2024. wesley.tomlinson@decaturdaily.com or 256-340-2442. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 4. Uzbekistan and the UN-Habitat agree to adopt a roadmap for practical cooperation, outlining the next steps in their collaborative efforts toward urban sustainability, Trend reports. The news follows a meeting between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev with UN Deputy Secretary-General and Executive Director of the UN-Habitat Programme Anaclaudia Rossbach during the Climate Forum in Samarkand. The meeting focused on strengthening Uzbekistan's partnership with the United Nations in the areas of sustainable urban development, infrastructure modernization, and improving the quality of life for citizens. Anaclaudia Rossbach praised the ongoing urbanization reforms in Uzbekistan, aimed at fostering the development of smart and green cities and creating a comfortable living environment for the population. In the course of the meeting, the sides recognized the importance of increasing cooperation in the implementation of modern digital solutions for urban management, the development of standards for green construction, and launching a special program for climate change adaptation in urban areas. These efforts are in line with global efforts to create more sustainable cities and reduce the environmental impact of urbanization. The discussions also touched on organizing World Clean-Up Day in Uzbekistan and the opening of a UN-Habitat office in Tashkent. Connecticuts ongoing disagreement over utility regulation has taken an odd turn, with Eversource proposing to return $275 million to its electric customers as a credit on next years bills and regulators saying not so fast. Should Eversource prevail, the monthly bill for a typical residential customer would drop by about $15 as high usage summer months approach. That would be in stark contrast to last summer, when record heat, high energy consumption and market volatility caused rates locally to spike as much as 400 percent. In its annual review of Eversource rates, the Public Utility Regulatory Authority has proposed a smaller credit of $45 million, a figure that would result in far less savings on bills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The different calculations of what customers are owed through credits turns on how much electric utilities are required to pay, under contracts negotiated by the state, for the power they distribute to millions of customers. The costliest contracts with the biggest effect on rates are long term agreements the state has negotiated with Millstone and Seabrook (New Hampshire) nuclear power stations. The nuclear energy contracts were negotiated as a hedge against swings in the price of other kinds of energy, in particular that generated by natural gas. The nuclear power deals drove last summers spike in electricity cost because the state contracts had required the utilities to buy high priced nuclear energy at a time when low, pandemic power use drove down the cost of natural gas. As energy markets equalized after the pandemic, natural gas increased in cost, making nuclear energy a relative bargain and resulting in the current talk of a customer credit. A 2017 Millstone deal is driving the high public benefits charge on CT electric bills. Heres why Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The different views on the credit owed to Eversource customers is based on different methods of forecasting utility rates, which has been a point of contention in a long, continuing and and increasingly political feud between the state regulators and the utility industry. What makes the latest disagreement, over credits, stand out is who is accusing the other of holding out on ratepayers. For months PURAs political supporters in the legislature and in the administration of Gov. Ned Lamont have accused the utilities of sacrificing rate payer interests to those of stockholders. A spokeswoman for PURA said the quasi-judicial authority cannot discuss pending matters, such as a credit for Eversource customers. This is a pending proceeding before PURA, and, as such, PURA is prohibited from commenting on or speculating about the interim decision, which is scheduled for a vote at the April 23rd regular meeting, spokeswoman Taren OConnor said. The Authority will review the entire record, including the written comments due today, April 4th. Any reporting should clarify that draft decisions have no legal effect and do not represent the views of any particular commissioner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eversource spokeswoman Jamie Ratliff said the utility has asked PURA to be allowed to return an additional $275 million to customers, as a result of state-mandated power purchase agreements including those with the Millstone and Seabrook nuclear power plants, instead of the current $45 million that the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) has tentatively approved to begin in May. This comes at a time when customers can benefit the most, as energy bills typically go up significantly in the summer months due to increased electric usage, Ratliff said. The wholesale energy market is incredibly volatile, but this year, appears to be moving in a direction thatll give money back to customers. This is customer money that should rightfully be returned to them as soon as possible. A filing with PURA Friday indicates that there has been ongoing discussion about the amount of an Eversource rebate and the disagreement lies in part in the argument by utilities that they should be able to make decisions on financial forecasts as well as past spending. Eversource initially proposed a $209 million credit but revised the number up to $275 in a filing Friday afternoon. The filing said PURA dropped the figure to $45 million based on a known and measurable adjustment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not sufficient for customers given current market information, Eversource said in the filing. PURA should provide customers with the benefit of the PPA (power purchase agreement) actual and forecasted market information that are now known to exist so that there is rate relief heading into the hottest peak season months and customers will have cost savings on a real time basis, rather than holding back for PURAs later recognition. Questions about a customer credit are taking place as the General Assembly prepares to vote on Lamonts nomination of PURA Chairman Marissa Gillett to a second term. Her confirmation appeared to be in jeopardy earlier this year, until Lamont and the legislatures Democratic leadership struck a deal that guaranteed her reappointment to an expanded and restructured authority. That deal has fallen apart and there were signs of opposition this week from House Democrats and Republicans. House Republican leader Vincent Candelora of North Branford said he sees political bias in the question of customer credits based on nuclear energy costs. I think she doesnt want to show that the nuclear contract could actually provide savings, Candelora said. Because the only narrative that the Democrats and the conservation groups have is to point to why nuclear is bad and why it has cost us a lot of money on our bills. Donald Trumps sweeping new tariffs have sparked a global scramble to sign free trade deals with the US, putting Britain in a race against the world to win the presidents favour. Mr Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One last night: Every country is calling us. Thats the beauty of what we do. If we would have asked these countries to do us a favour they would have said no. Now they will do anything for us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president said he was open to negotiating trade agreements with other countries, but warned their offers would have to be phenomenal. The rush to negotiate follows warnings about the heavy economic cost of Mr Trumps new tariffs and suggestions that countries that strike an agreement first are likely to get better treatment. Mr Trump said Wednesdays tariffs would be reconsidered if somebody said that were going to give you something thats so phenomenal, as long as theyre giving us something thats good. The race to strike deals with the US comes in response to sweeping new tariffs imposed by Mr Trump in what he branded liberation day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The levies sparked a stock market rout, with more than $2 trillion (1.5 trillion) wiped off Wall Street on Thursday in the biggest one-day loss since Covid. Countries around the world are already coming to the negotiating table in response. Javier Milei, Argentinas far-Right president, said in a speech at Mr Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida late on Thursday that he was aiming to strike a zero-tariff deal with the US. Mr Trump posted on Truth Social on Friday: Just had a very productive call with To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, who told me that Vietnam wants to cut their Tariffs down to ZERO if they are able to make an agreement with the U.S. Shigeru Ishiba, Japans prime minister, said he wanted to hold direct talks with Mr Trump about tariffs and was seeking to arrange a telephone call. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sir Keir Starmer has insisted he will keep a cool head in response to the 10pc tariff imposed on British goods, which was the joint lowest of any nation, and has said he will pursue a trade deal. But the Prime Minister was frustrated in his efforts to secure an agreement before the tariffs were rolled out on Wednesday. It is likely that Sir Keir will now need to offer concessions to placate Mr Trump. Areas under discussion are understood to include a tax cut for US tech giants, as well as an agreement on artificial intelligence. Jonathan Reynolds, the Business Secretary, has already rebuffed the presidents demand that Britain must start selling chlorinated American chickens, which are banned in the UK on health grounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While officials on the British side are hopeful that a deal can be worked out, they must now fight for the White Houses attention as leaders from around the world also seek to thrash out agreements. Sir Keir may also look to leverage Mr Trumps fondness for the Royal family to help Britain jump ahead in negotiations. In February, the Prime Minister presented the president with a letter from the King in a bid to curry favour. Any such move would have to be carefully handled, however, as the King will be eager not to be construed as taking a political stance. In February, the Prime Minister presented the president with a letter from King Charles in a bid to curry favour - Carl Court/Getty Images David Henig, director of the UK Trade Policy Project, said Britain did not need to dance up and down to win favour with Mr Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: The UK is already well placed even without a deal. Its not clear we can get anything better by having a deal. But if there is to be a deal he would expect a high price. David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, on Friday confirmed that the UK was in discussions with US counterparts over an economic deal. James Murray, a trade minister, said the Government was working at pace to secure a deal. However, the Government is also considering retaliatory measures and has drawn up a list of products that could be targeted with potential tariffs. Ministers have kicked off a four-week consultation with businesses on potential retaliatory tariffs in a move that appears to have set a deadline for inking an agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Lammy said: We have been absolutely clear that all options are on the table as we ensure the national interests of the British people. Eric Trump, the presidents son, said countries should move at pace to secure a deal with his father, suggesting those who reach an agreement earlier will get a better deal. Writing on X, he said he wouldnt want to be the last country to strike a deal with the US, adding: The first to negotiate will win the last will absolutely lose. I have seen this movie my entire life. Eric Trump, the presidents son, says countries should move at pace to secure a deal with his father - Jane Barlow/PA Bill Ackman, a billionaire hedge fund manager and Trump supporter, urged world leaders to do a deal immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: Trump is, at his core, a dealmaker who sees the world as a series of transactions. I expect Trump will reward the early dealmakers with fairer deals than those that wait to sit down at the negotiating table. Countries that respond with additional tariffs on our goods will be severely punished. The carrot and the stick writ large, big boy style. But the EU, which was hit with a 20pc levy, has branded the tariffs illegal and taken a more robust approach. Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, said Europeans feel let down by our oldest ally and that the bloc is ready to respond. Politicians and business leaders have urged Sir Keir to resist retaliation and focus on a trade deal instead. Writing in The Telegraph, former chancellor Jeremy Hunt urged the Prime Minister to copy the Singapore model and make Britain a low-tax nation that welcomed free trade and could thrive at a time of global instability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite market chaos and warnings of a global recession, Mr Trump last night said his tariffs plan was going very well, claiming: The markets are going to boom. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Activism has been on the rise lately. Movements are gaining traction. More and more people are showing up, raising their voices and demanding change. But what happens when you cant raise your voice or be heard at least not in a way the majority understands? This is the reality for members of the deaf community at many protests and rallies that fill streets with movement and hearts with passion. Imagine standing in a crowd, feeling the energy of people fighting for the same cause, but being unable to follow the chants, speeches or calls to action because of a sensory and language barrier. The fight may be for justice, but if you cant access the message, how can you truly be included? As journalist Kate Murphy writes in her book "Youre Not Listening," Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When access to language is withheld, so too is a sense of belonging. Thats why the presence of interpreters at protests is more than a courtesy. Its a declaration that every voice matters, whether its spoken or signed. Accessibility is often an afterthought, but a group of interpreters in Austin is working to change that. Sign Language Access for Social Justice (ASL4SJ) is an organization of volunteer interpreters who provide their services at events advocating for deaf rights, queer rights, conservation efforts and environmentalist efforts. They have divisions in Austin and Houston. Members of ASL4SJ were present at a recent 50501 protest in Austin, where they provided free American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, ensuring that deaf protesters could fully participate. Activist Alexandra Marie Haddix, media liaison for the Texas chapter of the 50501 movement, expressed her gratitude to the interpreters over the megaphone: Thank you so much for making this more inclusive with us..." Haddix said at the Feb. 17 event outside the Texas Capitol. "That is what democracy looks like. That is what community is. You tell me what you need, and I try to help you get it and vice versa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This simple acknowledgment highlights a bigger truth: Language access isnt just about convenience. Its about civil rights. Without proper interpretation, deaf activists are excluded from movements that directly affect them. Interpreters including Kate Rice, Olivia Ortiz, Lori Peters and Cristian Mattoon volunteer not just out of goodwill, but because they recognize that without ASL access, entire communities are shut out of crucial conversations. Many of these interpreters are children of deaf adults who often begin advocating for the deaf community in childhood by bridging communication gaps for their parents. Yet, despite their critical role, ASL interpreters are rarely prioritized at protests, political speeches or emergency briefings. In moments of crisis such as hurricanes, public health emergencies or events prompting presidential addresses deaf Americans often have to fight for access to basic information. This needs to change. If we truly want to honor the Americans with Disabilities Act, a law passed 35 years ago that stands for equity for groups such as the deaf community, then accessibility should never be optional. Activists must do better at ensuring that ASL interpretation is standard practice, not a special addition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next opportunity to put this into action is just around the corner. At the 50501 protest planned for this Saturday outside the Texas Capitol, ASL4SJ has ensured that sign language interpretation will be available an example of accessibility being prioritized from the start. As protests continue across the country, organizers and volunteers should ask themselves: Who is being left out? Who is being unheard? And what can we do to change that? Because as Murphy reminds us, We are, each of us, the sum of what we attend to in life. If we want a just, equitable society, we have to start by listening to the voices weve overlooked. Kaitlyn Marcak is a writer and advocate with deep family roots in Shiner, Texas, who is passionate about inclusion, social justice and the power of communication. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: ASL interpreters ensure deaf community rally participation | Opinion Capitol Hill Republicans, corporate America and White House allies are terrified about what's next in President Donald Trump's escalating trade war. But they fear Trump's wrath even more. Republican lawmakers are signaling they're willing to tolerate the pain for now, despite the economic fallout back home. Lobbyists, who are quietly prodding the same lawmakers to defend their interests, don't want to have a target on their back or their clients. Even some Trump world confidantes, alarmed about the tariffs impact, are hoping someone else intervenes. There is zero incentive for any company or brand to be remotely critical of this administration, said a public affairs operative, who, like others interviewed for this story, was granted anonymity to speak freely. It destroys your ability to work with the White House and advance your policies, period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An official in the energy industry echoed that sense of fear. Hearing angst and frustration from all quarters," the official said via text message, "but no one wants to be first out of the box saying anything negative about Trump's decision-making." The paralysis reflects the broader mood of Trumps second administration, in which hes targeted and threatened to destroy institutions that cross him, including law firms, universities, and more. With his tight grip on Washington, Trump has faced no meaningful resistance to policies that are upending the global economy, tearing up America's relationships with its closest allies and making deep, unilateral cuts to the federal government. Leaders have quickly learned that however harmful they think a Trump policy might be, publicly contradicting the president could be worse. Now with the Trump administration doubling down on tariffs and trying to sell the country on short-term pain for long-term gain, it's unclear what the breaking point will be for officials and lobbyists representing the most-impacted constituencies. There is absolutely a sense that the administration is keeping a list, and no one on K Street wants to be on it, said one executive at a trade group downtown. Advocates for affected industries are scrambling to determine how durable the new tariffs will be, wary of coming out forcefully if the administration decides to quickly scale them back. They point to Trumps swift reversal last month on tariffs targeting Canada and Mexico, which he largely paused amid an uproar from business leaders and even some Republicans. (In a Truth Social post Friday, Trump wrote, MY POLICIES WILL NEVER CHANGE.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think a lot of business leaders are very frustrated that the process of getting here was opaque, and that the decision points are so starkly black and white, and that they're not dealing with situations with more nuance, one multi-client Republican lobbyist said, before adding: Im trying to say something profound without getting a call from the White House that, You're next. What's the Japanese proverb? The nail sticking up gets hammered down, the lobbyist added. On K Street, there's no value in being the nail sticking up right now. Another Republican lobbyist said theyve been advising clients to "soften their tone if they want to work with this White House, and that they can spar over policy differences behind the scenes as long as they dont spill out into the public. Even those close to Trump expected louder pushback after he implemented a baseline tariff of 10 percent on all imported goods and slapped even higher reciprocal tariffs on dozens of other countries that Trump believes are stiffing the U.S. in the global marketplace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A White House ally close to the presidents inner circle noted that the tariffs the administration came up with were not true reciprocal tariffs and that there is a question about whether they are even legal. The Trump ally said he and others in the administration expected business groups would challenge them in court. Theyre gonna be sued off their asses for this as soon as it happens, the person said, by trade associations, companies, industry groups. No major trade group has filed litigation as of Friday midday. When asked for comment, White House spokesperson Kush Desai said the Trump administration is working "closely" with Congress. "The American people resoundingly voted for America First policies in November, and President Trump is committed to delivering on this mandate as the leader of the Republican Party," Desai said. A person close to the administration argued that companies arent being fearful about speaking out; rather, theyre trying to be strategic about how to engage with the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People are smarter this time in dealing with the Trump administration, the person said. They know not to beat their chest and try to score points in The New York Times, but have conversations behind the scenes and try to make deals. I think it's about making deals and not antagonizing the administration." Even on Capitol Hill, which lobbyists were hoping would be a key avenue for influencing the president without provoking his ire, fear is spreading among GOP lawmakers as the market hemorrhages trillions of dollars. But so far, most Republicans are unwilling to call on Trump to back down. Industry absolutely will not get back up from Congress right now, the trade group executive conceded, adding that Republicans are holding hands jumping off the cliff and hoping that it's a very short drop. There have been some cracks in the conference. Earlier this week, four Republican senators voted to help Democrats pass a resolution that would nullify the emergency powers Trump invoked last month to levy 25 percent tariffs on Canadian imports. And Sen. Chuck Grassley a senior Republican whose home state of Iowa stands to be hit hard in a trade war introduced bipartisan legislation Thursday that would claw back congressional control of tariff policy. But those measures will likely never make it to the presidents desk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everyone is terrified, a senior GOP aide said. But I dont think anyone wants to cross the president right now. A growing sense of defeatism set in Thursday and continued into Friday as Republican senators faced a slew of questions from reporters in real time as the market melted down. A wave of distressed phone calls from industry leaders and constituents in their states only added to their dread. He campaigned on this, one GOP senator whispered as panic stirred in the Senate hallways. This is just the beginning. Rachael Bade, Meredith Lee Hill, Ben Lefebvre, Ben Leonard, Daniel Lippman, Megan Messerly and Myah Ward contributed to this report. At 5pm on Monday, with just hours to spare, the Sentencing Council announced they would suspend their two-tier guidelines which would have discriminated against men, white people and Christians. Staring down the barrel of my legal challenge, and having provoked public fury, they folded under the pressure. But never one to miss an opportunity to shoot themselves in the foot, the Council only communicated this change to magistrates and judges at midday on Tuesday, two hours after courts had begun sitting. To complicate matters further, their email stated that their guidelines were still necessary. It raises the very real prospect that individuals were sentenced under guidelines the Justice Secretary conceded were two-tier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This whole fiasco must be a line in the sand. The head of the Sentencing Council, Lord Justice Davis, who remains unrepentant, must be sacked along with the other proponents of the policy and ministerial oversight restored to prevent a repetition of this madness. There has to be consequences for freewheeling judicial activists determined to enter the political arena and make policy decisions for elected officials. The Justice Secretary may don the robes and wig of her office, but she refuses to exercise her power or reassert her authority. In the words of Winston Churchill, she is decided only to be undecided, resolved to be irresolute, all-powerful to be impotent. This small battle may have been won, but the crusade against two-tier justice is only just beginning. I recently unearthed the Councils immigration guidelines, which water down sentences for immigration offences to below the 12 month threshold for automatic deportation. If enacted, it will mean that hundreds of illegal migrants and foreign offenders will avoid deportation, blowing another hole in our borders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week the Telegraph uncovered that the Ministry of Justice published new guidance in January which states probation officers must give regard to an offenders culture and whether they might have been subjected to intergenerational trauma from historical events centuries ago. Yes, you read that right. This is bonkers cultural relativism that is not just wrong, but puts the British public at risk. And its spread all the way to frontline police officers, who are being told by the NPCC that they should treat ethnic minorities more leniently, saying that it would be wrong to be colour blind and treat everyone the same. They are striving for equity not equality. It comes as no surprise that Labours policing minister gave it her endorsement. The depressing reality is that the two-tier sentencing guidelines were really just the tip of the iceberg. Everywhere you look under Keir Starmer we have a two-tier system, where ethnic and religious minority groups are given special treatment. And instead of getting infrastructure and new homes built, his deputy, Angela Rayner, is wasting her time on a definition of Islamophobia that may afford Islam protections against criticism and satire that no other religions benefit from. Even when lives are at stake, the Prime Minister doubles down on his two-tier instincts. As Labour leader he has called for 10 inquiries, including on the so-called Battle of Orgreave 40 years ago but he still refuses to authorise a national inquiry into the rape gangs which perpetrated perhaps the greatest racially-motivated hate crime in modern British history. Their victims were poor white girls from deprived communities. We know from survivors that abuse continues to this day. His stubborn refusal can only be because he is a coward, who is squeamish about confronting cultural realities, like the over-representation of Pakistani men in these gangs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The social fabric of our country has frayed because of unprecedented levels of mass migration, coupled with the denigration of British culture. We now see the balkanisation of parts of our major cities and the proliferation of groups lobbying for ethnic and religious interests. A two-tier legal system and government that abandons equality of treatment is not only deeply unfair to tens of millions of people and patronising to minorities, but is also a recipe for social unrest. Under Starmer, our social contract is being smashed to pieces and our country is more divided than ever. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A man who is suspected of killing his ex-girlfriend and her daughter in a drive-by shooting in Compton is on the run, and believed to be armed and dangerous, authorities said. The Los Angles County Sheriff's Department is looking for Donte Lamont Brown, a 41-year-old resident of Compton who is suspected of killing his estranged girlfriend, La'von Hall, and her 22-year-old daughter, Ma'Laysia Martin, according to a department news release. Sheriff's deputies responded to a call about a shooting at the intersection of Caldwell Street and South Central Avenue around 7 p.m. Tuesday and found Hall, 45, lying on the ground with gunshot wounds. Her daughter was discovered in the passenger seat of a car crashed nearby, also bleeding from gunshot wounds, according to the Sheriff's Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies and Compton Fire Department personnel attempted to render lifesaving aid, but both victims were both pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators later learned that Brown drove up to the victims' car while it was stopped at a light on Caldwell Street and unleashed several rounds of gunfire, hitting both the mother and daughter, according to the Sheriff's Department. Read more: Mother and daughter killed in drive-by shooting in Compton Hall exited the driver's side of the car and fell to the ground, mortally wounded. The car continued moving forward with Martin, wounded, in the passenger seat. It struck a signal pole on the southeast corner of the intersection, where Martin was found unresponsive, according to the Sheriff's Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brown fled southbound on South Central Avenue and his whereabouts remain unknown, sheriff's officials said. The department said detectives have exhausted all leads in the search for Brown and are seeking the public's assistance in locating him. He is known to frequent the Compton and Long Beach areas and is believed to be armed. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff's Department's Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. Anonymous tips can be left at (800) 222-8477 or at the Crime Stoppers website. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Tony Navarrete, bottom right, makes his initial appearance in court on Aug. 6, 2021, for multiple felony child sex crimes. Maricopa County Superior Court Commissioner Steve McCarthy, left, presided over the hearing and ordered Navarrete held on $50,000 bond. Also pictured is Jeanine Sorrentino, a sex crimes prosecutor for the Maricopa County Attorneys Office. Screenshot via Maricopa County Superior Court. An appeals court on Thursday upheld a former Democratic state legislators conviction for a child sex crime. Otoniel Tony Navarrete was a state senator representing a west Phoenix legislative district when he was arrested in 2021 and charged with seven felonies for child sex crimes after allegedly molesting and forcing oral sex on two boys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He resigned shortly after he was arrested. Navarrete was tried twice. The first trial in October 2023 ended in a mistrial after jurors couldnt decide on a verdict. Prosecutors tried Navarrete again in 2024, and jurors delivered a split verdict, convicting him of one count of sexual conduct with a minor. He was acquitted of another identical count and a count of molestation of a child. In April 2024, he was sentenced to one year in prison. Navarrete asked the Arizona Court of Appeals to review his case for fundamental error. But the three-judge panel unanimously concluded there were no errors and the conviction and sentence should stand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Navarette was present and represented by counsel at all critical stages of the proceeding, except when counsel waived his presence. The record reflects that the superior court afforded Navarette all his constitutional and statutory rights, and that the proceedings were conducted in accordance with the Arizona Rules of Criminal Procedure, Judge David Weinzweig wrote on behalf of the appellate panel. The court conducted appropriate pretrial hearings, and the evidence presented at trial and summarized above was sufficient to support the jurys verdict. Navarettes sentence is also within the range prescribed by law. We find no error on this record. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE By Gianluca Lo Nostro, Cassell Bryan-Low and Barbara Erling PARIS (Reuters) - Berlin has been paying for Ukraine's access to a satellite-internet network operated by France's Eutelsat, as Europe seeks alternatives to Elon Musks Starlink. Eutelsats chief executive Eva Berneke told Reuters the company has provided its high-speed satellite internet service to Ukraine for about a year via a German distributor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking at the company's headquarters in Paris on Thursday, she said it was funded by the German government, but declined to comment on the cost. Berneke said there were fewer than a thousand terminals connecting users in Ukraine to Eutelsats network, which is a small fraction of the roughly 50,000 Starlink terminals Ukraine says it has, but she said she expected the figure would rise. "Now we're looking to get between 5,000 and 10,000 there relatively fast," she said, adding it could be "within weeks". Asked whether Germany would also fund that additional provision, Eutelsat spokesperson Joanna Darlington said the issue was under discussion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We dont know yet how the EU collectively or country by country will fund efforts going forward," Darlington said. Germany's foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment. STARLINK RELIANCE WORRIES EUROPE U.S. President Donald Trumps more hostile approach to Ukraine since his return to the White House has sparked concern in Europe about reliance on Starlink. It is part of rocket company SpaceX, owned by tech billionaire Musk who is close to Trump. Starlink provides crucial internet connectivity to Ukraine and its military in the war against Russia. Eutelsats OneWeb division is Starlinks main rival in providing high-speed internet satellite via low-Earth orbit satellites. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These sit at lower altitudes than traditional satellites, allowing them to transmit data extremely efficiently, providing high-speed internet for remote communities, seafaring vessels and militaries. Eutelsat previously said it was engaged in discussions with the European Union about supplying additional internet access to Ukraine. On Thursday, Berneke said talks with Brussels regarding Ukraine were active, and that they were principally taking place within an EU-backed consortium Eutelsat belongs to that is working on a long-term satellite project known as IRIS. She said Eutelsat has capacity it could offer Ukraine via its network of geostationary satellites, which sit further away from earth and typically offer slower connectivity speeds. She said that network uses terminals that are relatively low cost and is good for consumer use or for having as an alternative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When you're in a situation as you see in Ukraine today, you want to have all your options open, she said. As long as Starlink works in the country, it doesn't make sense to choose not to use it, she said. However, it makes sense to have a plan B especially when you've had these kinds of situations where it got a little bit tense around whether that was going to be still an option, you'd want to have alternatives. About half of the 50,000 Starlink terminals Ukraine says it has received were supplied by the Polish government, which says that since 2022 it has spent about $84 million on Starlink terminals and service. The U.S. government and SpaceX have also provided Starlink access to Ukraine. Last month, the European Commission said in a white paper that the European Union should fund Ukraines access to space services that can be provided by EU-based commercial providers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The European Commissions defence chief Andrius Kubilius met with Poland's defence minister while in Warsaw this week. Asked by Reuters during a news conference Wednesday about the status of discussions on Starlink alternatives in Ukraine, Kubilius said there are solutions that will be implemented in the event of unexpected developments, but declined to elaborate. Europe needs to develop its own capabilities in a rapid and urgent way, Kubilius added. He noted that there are two European efforts underway. One known as GOVSATCOM that brings together national satellites should be ready from the middle of this year, he said. The other is the EU-backed IRIS project, which is a public-private partnership that is not due to be operational until around 2030. (Additional reporting by Riham Alkousaa in Berlin; editing by Barbara Lewis) TOPEKA (KSNT) Representative Pat Proctor announced Thursday that he will run for Secretary of State. Proctor spoke about the reason behind his run in an exclusive interview with Nexstars Kansas Capitol Bureau Chief, Rebekah Chung. A Republican from Leavenworth who chairs the House Elections Committee, Proctor said it started as he was learning more about his committee role, while visiting the Secretary of States Office on the same day of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot in Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It really just impressed upon me how vital to our form of government and our way of life, that not only that our elections are secure, but that people know theyre secure, that voters have the confidence that the results of the election reflect their will, Proctor said. Now I really think that its very, very important that we have somebody in the seat, in the Secretary of States Office, that is focused on building up voter confidence and restoring confidence in the process, rather than tearing it down, he continued. In the one-on-one interview, Chung spoke with Proctor about his thoughts on January 6 and election measures hes backed at the statehouse. The full interview is set to air April 13 on Inside Kansas Politics. In recent years, Proctor has pushed for reforms on how elections are ran and has backed a bill that cuts the window to cast advance votes by mail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Humanities Kansas programs in jeopardy after DOGE cuts Other bills Proctor has sponsored this year include: HR 6016 Denouncing the planned satanic worship ritual at the Capitol Building. HCR5004 An amendment requiring voters be U.S. citizens. HCR 5006 An amendment recognizing the right to bear arms. HCR 6007 Recognizing Kansas National Guard Best Warriors and Airmen of the Year. HR 6010 A bill to strengthen ties with Taiwan. HR 6011 A bill recognizing Antique Tractor Preservation Day. HR 6015 A bill supporting the Irish-Kansas trade partnership. The first day of advance voting for the primary election is July 16; all advance ballots must be received by Friday, Aug. 8. The general election will begin on Oct. 15; all advance ballots must be received by Friday. Nov. 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more Capitol Bureau news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 4. On the sidelines of the Samarkand Climate Forum, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with Ibrahim Thiaw, UN Deputy Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), Trend reports. During the meeting, Ibrahim Thiaw conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to the President of Uzbekistan. The sides discussed the important issues surrounding the further development of cooperation in the areas of combating desertification and land degradation in Uzbekistan and the region. Ibrahim Thiaw commended the Presidents speech at the forum, noting the relevance of the initiatives proposed by Uzbekistan to address climate challenges and the timely introduction of the green development concept for Central Asia. The meeting also highlighted the approval by the UN General Assembly in August of last year for the Uzbekistan-initiated resolution on forest restoration, as well as the beginning of the development of national goals to prevent land degradation. Furthermore, the parties agreed to involve experts from the Convention in creating an International Scientific Network to combat land degradation and desertification, which will be based at the Green University in Tashkent. This collaboration is expected to play a significant role in advancing scientific research and practical solutions to combat land degradation and desertification in Central Asia. By Samia Nakhoul BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Turkey wants no confrontation with Israel in Syria, but repeated Israeli strikes on military facilities there are eroding the new government's ability to deter threats from enemies, including Islamic State, Turkey's foreign minister told Reuters on Friday. In an interview on the sidelines of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels, Hakan Fidan said Israel's actions were fuelling regional instability by targeting Syria, where the government of President Ahmed al-Sharaa is a close ally of Turkey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We don't want to see any confrontation with Israel in Syria because Syria belongs to Syrians," Fidan said. Turkey, which shares a 911 km (566-mile) border with Syria, has emerged as one of the most influential power brokers in Syria and allies of its new Islamist government. Ankara had for years backed the rebels who now make up the bulk of the new government as they fought to topple former President Bashar al-Assad. Israel has accused Turkey of trying to turn Syria into a Turkish protectorate. Asked whether Turkey's plans for a joint defence pact with Syria were prompting Israel to intensify strikes on Syrian military bases, Fidan said Ankara was working with regional partners to form a joint platform with Syria to block the re-emergence of Islamic State and fight shared threats, including the banned Kurdish Workers Party (PKK). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Undermining that effort, he said, risks dragging the entire region back into chaos. NATO member Turkey has fiercely criticised Israel over its attacks on Gaza since 2023, saying they amount to a genocide against the Palestinians, and has applied to join a case at the World Court against Israel while also halting all trade. Israel denies the genocide accusations. The animosity between the regional powers has spilled over into Syria, with Israeli forces striking Syria for weeks since a new administration took control in Damascus. Turkey has called the Israeli strikes an encroachment on Syrian territory, while Israel has said it would not allow any hostile forces in Syria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this "transition period", Fidan said, Turkey does not want to see Islamic State (ISIS) or the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militant group take advantage of "the absence of the regular forces, some absence of military capabilities" in Syria. "Unfortunately Israel is taking out, one by one, all these capabilities that a new state can use against ISIS and other terrorist attacks and threats," he said. However, if the new administration in Damascus wants to have "certain understandings" with Israel, which like Turkey is a neighbour of Syria, then that is their own business, he added. Turkey has vowed to help rebuild Syria, from infrastructure to state institutions, and provided it with political support in international platforms. It has called for the full lifting of Western sanctions on Syria for reconstruction efforts to start, while welcoming the formation of a transitional government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TIES WITH U.S. On Friday, Fidan, who held talks last week with U.S. officials in Washington, said that he understood the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump was reviewing its policy regarding Syria and the sanctions imposed on it. "Now we have a new Syria. I think that new Syria requires a different approach," he said, adding that Ankara had been conveying its views on the matter to its Western allies. While eyeing warmer ties with Washington under Trump and backing its initiative to end the Ukraine war, Turkey has also opposed some of the new administration's Middle East policies, including a plan to take over the Gaza Strip and turn it into a "Riviera of the Middle East". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fidan pointed to Trump's "problem-solving techniques" as a way of resolving lingering disputes between the two NATO allies, especially U.S. sanctions on Turkey's defence industry, and added he was hopeful a solution could be found. He said any possible peace deal brokered by the U.S. between Kyiv and Moscow would be "difficult to digest", but still better than more death and destruction, and added a deterrence factor was needed to ensure the war did not restart. Turkey has maintained cordial ties with both Kyiv and Moscow since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It has voiced support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and provided it with military help, while opposing sanctions on Russia. Ukraine has said Turkey, the second largest army in NATO, would be an important guarantor for security. Ankara has said it would consider joining a peace initiative on the ground, though it has said details of such a mission were still not clear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fidan repeated Turkey's offer to host Russia and Ukraine for possible peace talks, after having hosted initial talks in 2022. Asked about Trump's threats of U.S. military strikes against Iran, Fidan said diplomacy was needed to resolve the dispute and that Ankara did not want to see any attack taking place against its neighbour Iran. "We need to bring the Americans and the Iranians together to have frank and sincere discussions. This should be the only way forward." (Reporting by Samia Nakhoul; Writing and additional reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu and Huseyin Hayatsever; Editing by Jonathan Spicer, Gareth Jones, Philippa Fletcher) OGDEN, Utah (ABC4) In a small room inside the federal building in Ogden, a small group of family and friends gathered for a moment 55 years in the making. Staffers from Senator Mike Lees office lined up chairs, pulled a tablecloth tight, and welcomed the guest of honor Mr. Lloyd Williams, a veteran of the Vietnam War. ABC4 first became acquainted with Mr. Williams in November of 2024. He was one of dozens of veterans taking part in an Honor Flight. He would visit the monuments and memorials built to commemorate Americas servicemembers and the conflicts in which they served. A miracle in Nauvoo: Family says daughters mission gets Dad life-saving transplant Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While touring Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, Mr. Williams recalled his experience returning from the Vietnam War. When I came home, I was so embarrassed, said Williams. I threw all my unforms away, my medals away. I got rid of everything. I didnt want anything to do with being a soldier. Thats how bad it made me feel. Now, I wish I had them back. Honor Flight organizers heard his story and quickly contacted the office of Senator Mike Lee. A longtime caseworker on staff, Emily Wiscombe, coordinated the work to replace Mr. Williams medals. This is the best part of my job, exclaimed Ms. Wiscombe. Its so gratifying to know we made a little bit of a difference in their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back inside the small room in the federal building, Wiscombe, other staff members, and family and friends of Mr. Williams, watched intently as five medals were picked up from the table and placed in Mr. Williamss hands. It was a return of honor 55 years in the making. An emotional Williams, wearing a black Vietnam veteran hat, remarked at the experience. I wear this hat and people will just come up to me and say Welcome Home. That means the world to me because I never got that. I never got that at all, and I appreciate it, he said. Mr. Williams is one of many Utahns who qualify for various federal services, including replacement of military medals and commendations. If you need help with a similar situation, you can find resources here: Assistance with Federal Agencies Mike Lee US Senator for Utah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can also learn more about Utah Honor Flight through the nonprofits website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. According to the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, the presidentially appointed members of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) "may be removed by the President, upon notice and hearing, for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office, but for no other cause." Yet President Donald Trump recently fired NLRB member Gwynne Wilcox for another cause. Namely, Trump fired President Joe Biden's appointee because her policy views did not align with his. As Trump explained in the letter that fired her, Wilcox's work at the NLRB was not "consistent with the objectives of my administration." The president added: "The aims and purposes of the Administration with respect to the work on the Board can be carried out most effectively with personnel of my own selection." Wilcox filed suit, arguing that her firing was illegal under federal law. She won an early victory when Judge Beryl A. Howell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia held that Wilcox must be reinstated. "Because this statute is a valid exercise of congressional power," the judge wrote, "the President's excuse for his illegal act cannot be sustained." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Trump's rationale for the firing has proven to be more sustainable on appeal. On March 28, a divided 3-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit issued an order to stay the lower court's ruling while the Trump administration's appeal moved forward. In other words, the D.C. Circuit let Trump's firing of Wilcox go into effect. What explains the D.C. Circuit's actions? After all, the stated cause for Wilcox's firing would seem to be flatly inconsistent with federal law. The answer lies in part in the D.C. Circuit's reading of the U.S. Supreme Court's 2020 opinion in Seila Law v. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. That case centered on the authority of the president to fire the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), who, according to federal law, could only be fired for "inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance." Seila Law, however, held that such a limit on the president's removal power was unconstitutional. "The CFPB Director has no boss, peers, or voters to report to," Chief Justice John Roberts wrote for the 5-4 majority. "Yet the Director wields vast rulemaking, enforcement, and adjudicatory authority over a significant portion of the U. S. economy. The question before us is whether this arrangement violates the Constitution's separation of powers." Roberts held that it did. As a result, the director of the CFPB "must be removable by the president at will." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to D.C. Circuit Judge Justin Walker, Seila Law clearly supports Trump's ability to fire NLRB member Wilcox for political reasons. "The Supreme Court has said that Congress cannot restrict the President's removal authority over agencies that 'wield substantial executive power,'" Walker wrote. Such "precedents control this court's case." Walker is probably right that the same Supreme Court majority that handed down Seila Law willwhen the time comesrule in favor of the president in Wilcox v. Trump. Of course, there are differences between the two cases. In Seila Law, for example, the Supreme Court repeatedly stressed the fact that the CFPB was led by a single director. The NLRB, by contrast, is led by five members, some of whom are Democratic appointees and some of whom are Republican appointees. But such differences probably won't carry much weight if the same Seila Law majority agrees that the NLRB, like the CFPB before it, wields executive authority outside of the executive branch's control. I suspect that a majority of the Supreme Court is likely to see it that way and will probably decide the case in favor of Trump. The post An Executive Power Case That Trump May Win appeared first on Reason.com. US President Donald Trump imposed new tariffs on European car imports, claiming the EU blocks US brands from their market, but industry experts say the real problem is the cars themselves. Trump introduced a 25% tariff on imported cars effective since Thursday, arguing that while the US imports millions of European vehicles, exporting US cars to the EU is "almost impossible." However, analysts argue that new tariffs are unlikely to improve the performance of US carmakers in Europe, as their models do not align with local consumer preferences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tesla is a rare exception, said Stefan Bratzel from the Center of Automotive Management, but the company is facing declining sales and mounting criticism of its chief executive, Elon Musk, who also serves as an adviser to Trump. In the first quarter, Tesla's deliveries dropped by 13%. Last year, Germany shipped nearly 450,000 cars to the US, while only 136,000 US cars were sold in Germany, according to Germany's auto industry association VDA. Before the introduction of the 25% tariff, the US had a mere 2.5% duty on cars from Europe, while the EU's rate for US vehicles is 10%. Industry expert Ferdinand Dudenhoffer also points to the size and fuel consumption of US vehicles as key obstacles, as fuel prices in Europe are significantly higher than in the US. Without smaller, more fuel-efficient models, Dudenhoffer believes US manufacturers will continue to struggle in Europe, regardless of tariff policies. Kashmir, often called the "fruit bowl" of Northern India, is facing a troubling new reality: a snowless winter. The region's fruit industry, which powers thousands of livelihoods and supplies 70% of India's apples, might be in serious trouble. What's happening? Farmers across Kashmir are grappling with an unusually dry and snowless winter. Normally, snowpack helps irrigate orchards during hot summer months and gives apple trees the chilling hours they need to flower properly. But this year, Chillai Kalan, the region's harshest winter period, passed with barely a flake in sight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This winter feels more like spring," Bashir Ahmad Basheer, chair of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, told Greater Kashmir. "The stark absence of snow, coupled with a drastic decline in precipitation, paints a worrying picture for the upcoming harvest." He warns that the industry could experience sharp declines in yields and fruit quality without sufficient snowfall. That's especially bad news for apples, which are Kashmir's most important crop. The region produces over 2.5 million metric tons annually and accounts for 90% of India's dry fruit output. Why is this snow drought concerning? While unusual winters happen, the broader pattern of rising global temperatures and shifting precipitation points to something bigger: Our overheating planet is disrupting longstanding weather systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As climate experts have explained, hotter days are "basically steroids for weather," making extreme events more likely and more damaging. Similar concerns are being faced throughout the world. States across the United States have also reported alarmingly low snowfall, landing them in what's known as a snow drought. Kashmir's horticulture sector makes up nearly 10% of the region's economy and supports more than 85 million days of employment annually. Do you worry about how much food you throw away? Definitely Sometimes Not really Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. With earlier flowering, a higher risk of frost damage, and more pest invasions due to warmer winters, the system of jobs, food, and exports is under threat. What's being done about these snowless winters? Globally, smart solutions to droughts are emerging. In California, there is a $20 million venture called Project Nexus to install solar panels over irrigation canals, reducing water evaporation and generating clean energy at the same time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Dominican Republic, conservationist Francisco Nunez leads efforts to protect watersheds by planting trees alongside crops such as coffee and cacao. These agroforestry practices help show how nature-based solutions can build resilience to drought. As individuals, we can help by upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and exploring simple swaps that reduce pollution. This can be as simple as opting for public transit or reducing our intake of red meat. If we want to protect the roots of global food systems from apples in Kashmir to wheat in the U.S. Midwest the systems we rely on must evolve just as quickly as our changing climate. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's Constitutional Court on Friday removed President Yoon Suk Yeol from office over his stunning declaration of martial law in a case that ignited the worst political crisis in decades and rattled markets. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? South Korea will have to hold a fresh presidential election within 60 days. Until then, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will remain as acting president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new president will take office as soon as the National Election Commission declares the results. After South Korea's last impeachment and removal, in 2017, a presidential election was held on May 9 following the Constitutional Court's decision to remove then-President Park Geun-hye on March 9. Park's successor was inaugurated the day after that vote. Polls show opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, who narrowly lost to Yoon in the 2022 presidential election, is maintaining his lead for the snap election, leaving no major challengers. A populist outsider and former governor of the most populous province in South Korea, Lee has however been beset by his own legal troubles and scandals that could bar him from an election run. He faces trials in cases from bribery to charges related to a property development scandal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHAT WILL BE THE NEW LEADER's PRIORITIES? Whoever wins the election, the priority will be to bring stability to domestic politics and take on the daunting task of dealing with U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump has been pressuring allies with tariffs and demanding that South Korea pay more for American troops stationed there. Tension on the Korean peninsula is also running high. Yoon took a hard line against North Korea, amid Pyongyang's advances in military and space capabilities and warming ties with Russia. South Korea suspended a military pact with the North meant to reduce military tension by curbing live-fire exercises along the border. The North's constitution has designated South Korea as the principal enemy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHAT NEXT FOR YOON? In separate criminal proceedings, Yoon was indicted in January on charges of insurrection, punishable by life imprisonment or even death, although South Korea has not executed anyone in decades. A defiant Yoon has denied he masterminded an insurrection. Yoon, a former prosecutor, used to put people in jail. But, he became the first incumbent South Korean leader to be arrested in January, after initially defying efforts to question him in the criminal case. He has now been freed from detention after a court quashed his arrest warrant while he stands trial. WILL HIS REMOVAL END THE CRISIS? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yoon's removal from office was the culmination of months of turmoil in which hundreds of thousands of South Koreans took to the streets, week after week, either to protest or support him. The upheaval has further exposed deep social rifts between conservatives and liberals and stepped up pressure on institutions and the military, which had found itself in a quandary over whether to enforce martial law. Political dysfunction marked the run-up to Yoon's martial law declaration, with the opposition-led parliament blocking much of his agenda and impeaching a string of officials. It remains unclear whether Yoon's fired-up supporters will now accept the court's ruling or continue their street protests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (This story has been corrected to change the name of acting president to Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, not Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, in paragraph 2) (Reporting by Ju-min Park; Editing by Ed Davies, Clarence Fernandez and Lincoln Feast.) BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) In 2024, 49 people died from Valley Fever, and 3,990 were infected with the fungal disease. Now, the county public health department has launched a new campaign to put a dent in those numbers by putting a face to the numbers. Kern County Public Health Director Brynn Carrigan is one of those faces. This is the first time that I stand and address a public health threat that I have experienced myself, said Carrigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carrigan was diagnosed with a rare form of Valley Fever in May 2024. Now, shes part of the Faces of Valley Fever Campaign after Kern had a record number of cases and deaths last year. I was doing everything that a normal 40-year-old active person would be doing, and within a month I was practically bedridden, said Carrigan. Kern Probation Division Director, Joel Walton, became a face of Valley Fever at 41. Covenant Coffee to host dog adoption event in partnership with Kern County Animal Services They discovered the reason the Valley Fever was thriving was because my immune system was suppressed because of the chemo therapy, said Walton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walton battled testicular cancer at 19, and discovered he had Valley Fever after his cancer re-diagnosis 22 years later. I really just want to get the message out there that you need to advocate for your own health, said Walton. Last year, Aden Garcia honored his Tio, Steven Espinoza, at the Valley Fever Walk. Espinoza was diagnosed with Valley Fever in October 2023. He died March 8, 2024. Relay for Life crew preps for 34th year of running in Bakersfield Tio, me, and all of our family miss you, said his nephew, Aden Garcia. Tia misses you very much, and your kids, and your grandkids miss you very much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Valley Fever grows in the dirt, and it gets into the air when the dirt is stirred up. Anyone can catch the disease, including your pets. Its not contagious, and only spread by inhaling the spores that grow in dirt. 60% of people have no symptoms. The disease can spread to the nervous system, to the organs, to the skin and to the bones. Symptoms begin one to three weeks after exposure. To limit your exposure to dust, keep all windows and doors closed when its windy, wear an N-95 mask outdoors and wet down dirt to reduce the dust. Health experts warn Kern is at the epicenter of Valley Fever. Listen to your body. Talk to your doctor, and get tested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information on the Faces of Valley Fever campaign, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. LEpee 1839s bold reimagination of the Cuckoo clock Introducing the LEpee 1839 Time Tales: A complex and contemporary reimagining of the traditional Swiss Cuckoo clock, LEpee 1839 blends nostalgia with the Maisons boundless creativity, signature playful ingenuity, and demonstration of its ability to develop complex mechanical marvels. Inspired by the whimsical magic of childhood cartoons, LEpee 1839 breathes new life into this beloved heirloom. With a total of 1,241 components, LEpee 1839s Time Tales brings time to life through its complex in-house mechanical movement. Every hour and half-hour, the signature cuckoo appears from its hidden perch, singing along with the chimesstriking the hours and a single note on the half-hour. The music box then plays its melody, while a double automaton brings mischievous figurines to life in a playful dance, making timekeeping an experience rather than just a measure. Time Tales L'Epee Inspired by the Four Wise Monkeys philosophy and vintage cartoons, Time Tales reflects values dear to the Maison; a blend of playful audacity and a lighthearted reminder to treasure how we spend our time. More than just a clock, Time Tales is a finely tuned mechanical masterpiece that brings time to life through movement and sound. Designed for versatility, its fully mechanical computer, developed entirely in-house, offers complete controlallowing to activate each function on demand, mute elements individually, or pre-program a silent mode for a truly personalized experience. At its heart, Time Tales features three distinct movements, able to function independently or together, like a fine-tuned mechanical brain; The cuckoo pops out from its bird house, calling the hour in harmony with the hour striking function. Both are chiming the specific hours on the hour and a single strike on the half-hour. Because there are no great cartoons without music, the music box movement starts playing a fine tune, while a double automaton animates the figurinesplaying on demand, continuously, or in perfect harmony with the clocks hourly chime. An 8-day timekeeping movement ensures a precise display of hours and minutes with two matchstick-inspired shaped hands ready to lighten up the time and the whole firework rocket inspired cabinet. This intricate choreography is effortlessly controlled through three signature pulleys, elegantly suspended from the clock and a lever hidden under the clock. The left pulley is for absolute silence of all sound animations. The middle pulley replays the last hours performance at any moment, offering a chance to relive the spectacle. The right pulley activates or deactivates a pre-set silent mode, allowing for scheduled quiet periods. Additionally, a dedicated lever beneath the clock provides independent control over the music box, letting you choose between continuous play, a short demo performance or synchronizing it with the clocks hourly strikes. For intense moments of concentration of peace or deep sleep, Time Tales features a do not disturb function with a fully mechanical silent mode, allowing for pre-set quiet intervals. A rotating dial, adorned with two elegant pointers, marks the start and end of each silent period, while a discreet symbol beneath the 12:00 numeral subtly signals when the mode is active. This is how Time Tales has been mechanically computerized by our brilliant teams. Time Tales L'Epee Design and inspiration At first glance, Time Tales aluminum structure appears sleek and modern, with a black and silver polished housing. But soon, its form reveals a playful twistevoking retro rockets and the dazzling fireworks of classic cartoons etched into our collective imagination. Think of classic cartoons where a zany character straps themselves to a rocket for a quick escapeonly for chaos to ensue. The journey is never as simple as point A to point B; detours, mishaps, and spectacular blunders turn speed into slapstick. Time Tales rocket-shaped design playfully echoes this, serving as a reminder to pause, embrace the unexpected, and take time to slow down. And sometimes it is not necessary to rush or go too fast if one wants to succeed. Time is displayed with two matchstick-shaped hands, a whimsical nod to the slapstick energy of animated adventures. Yet, the real magic begins when the mechanical movement is wound. As the cuckoo sings, a double automat with figurineschanneling Tex Avery slapstick brilliance, the timeless antics of Tom and Jerry, and the boundless energy of Looney Tunesspring into motion, transporting us back to a childhood where time stood still and every moment was both fun and a new discovery. Designed by Jason Sarkoyan and Martin Bolo, the mischievous figurines come in three unique collectionsdogs, birds, and monkeyseach embodying the timeless wisdom of See no evil, Hear no evil, Speak no evil, and Do no evil. This ancient proverb found in many cultures, often depicted through four wise monkeys, reminds us to be mindful of the negativity we absorb and spread. A symbol of wisdom, the four Wise Monkeys have appeared across cultures for centuries. In Buddhism and Shinto, they represent the idea of avoiding evil and maintaining a pure mind. In India, similar teachings in Hindu and Buddhist traditions emphasize self-discipline and wisdom. In China, Confucian and Taoist philosophies encourage guarding ones senses from negative influences. Today, the four Wise Monkeys remain a popular motif in art and storytelling, reminding others to always stay positive no matter what. With Time Tales, LEpee 1839 gives the animated figurines a playful role, reinforcing the clocks lighthearted spirit and encouraging one to embrace moments of self-reflection and time for oneself. Time Tales L'Epee The embedded mechanical computer system: This kinetic sculpture conceals a sophisticated, in-house-developed cuckoo mechanism, integrating a music box, an hour-striking function, and the signature cuckoo call. The cuckoo call and chimes sound together, marking the full hours with a complete chime and a single strike on the half-hour. The sequence concludes as the music box springs to life, accompanied by the second automaton animating the figurines. Time Tales three mechanical movements function like a mechanical computer, offering precise control over every feature. These are seamlessly guided by three elegantly polished suspended pulleys and a discreetly concealed lever beneath the clock. Each of these sound animations can operate independently or in unison, allowing complete customizationyou can trigger sounds on demand or mute the music box, cuckoo, or chimes individually to suit your preference. For moments of complete silence, a second dial allows to set a pre-programmable silent mode. Each movement winds independently with a dedicated lever, while a finely-hand finished square key ensures effortless time-setting. The three pulleys and lever: Enhancing its versatility, the three pulleys are the commands for the mechanical computer allowing you to tailor its performance to your lifestyle and preferences. Pull the left one to deactivate the cuckoo, chimes and music box for full silence (Absolute silencer). The middle pulley replays the last hours spectacle whenever you wish (repeat on demand). The right one activates or deactivates the pre-set quiet time system (mechanical computer activation/reset). Additionally, a separate lever solely controls the music boxchoose continuous play, repeat on demand or standard mode. Just like a computer, Time Tales offers complete control. Programmable silence mode: For peaceful moments, Time Tales offers a customizable Silent Mode. This all-mechanical systemmasterfully engineered by LEpee 1839lets you pre-program quiet periods without electronics. Using a dial, set a silence slot with two elegant hands marking the start and end times. A discreet symbol beneath the 12:00 numeral shows when Silent Mode is on, keeping things clear and simple. Claim: No perpetrator of a school shooting has ever been sentenced to death. Rating: Rating: False Context: Snopes' research found at least four perpetrators of school shootings have been sentenced to death since 1940. Two of those sentences were later commuted to life in prison and the other two perpetrators remain on death row as of April 2025. Following reports that prosecutors sought the death penalty for alleged murderer Luigi Mangione, accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024, social media posts online lamented that Mangione's punishment would be more severe than every "school shooter." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April 2025, posts on Instagram (archived), TikTok (archived), and Threads (archived) alleged that no school shooters had ever received the death penalty. While some commenters pointed out that most perpetrators of what would be considered "school shootings" are minors and therefore not eligible for a death sentence, the popular posts implied there was a disparity in punishment for the murder of one wealthy man versus the murders of multiple children. Though it's proportionally rare for a school shooter to be sentenced to death, it has indeed happened, most recently in 1993. Therefore, we have rated the claim false. However, no perpetrator has been sentenced to death since 1993, despite there being at least 23 fatal mass school shootings since then. Of those 23 incidents, 16 ended with the death of the assailants either by suicide or law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our research turned up at least four instances of school shooting perpetrators being sentenced to death, with two of the four still sitting on death row and the other two having their sentences commuted to life in prison. The definition of "school shooter" can vary. For the purposes of this fact check, we have defined it as a gunman who intentionally targeted students and staff at a school. Further, we've excluded crimes such as a robbery that resulted in a fatal shooting on the grounds of a school. For example, two people were executed after being sentenced to death for fatal shootings that took place on school grounds but would not be considered "school shootings" in the sense discussed in the claim. The earliest school shooting-related death sentence stemmed from the 1940 murder of a teenage girl by her father, Joseph Moshell, who showed up at his daughter's boarding school and shot her. The school was St. Mary's-in-the-Field, "an Episcopal school conducted for girls from 12 to 20 years old having unpleasant home life or other problems," according to a news item that appeared in The New York Times on July 5, 1940. (The Ogdensburg Journal, March 7, 1941) On March 7, 1941, The Ogdensburg Journal reported, "Judge Frank H. Coyne said today he would impose a mandatory death sentence next Wednesday upon Joseph Moshell, a 47-year-old World War veteran convicted of slaying his 16-year-old daughter, Melbla." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the sentence was later commuted to life in prison in 1942 by New York Gov. Herbert Lehman, according to the official papers from Lehman's term available to view in the New York State digital library. (New York Gov. Herbert Lehman) On Nov. 12, 1966, Robert Benjamin Smith entered the Rose-Mar College of Beauty in Mesa, Arizona and killed three students as well as a customer and her young child. According to a Time magazine article from Nov. 18, 1966, the perpetrator "began to concoct his own nightmarish schemes for multiple murder" after a deadly mass shooting at the University of Texas earlier that year. A Time magazine article from Nov. 3, 1967, stated, "Despite a plea of insanity, accused mass murderer Robert Benjamin Smith, 19, was found guilty and now faces the gas chamber." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, in 1971, the Arizona Supreme Court reversed and remanded the decision, and eventually Smith's sentence was commuted to consecutive life sentences in prison. According to the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry, Smith died in prison on April 21, 2024. James William Wilson Jr., the perpetrator of a 1988 school shooting that left two dead and several injured in Greenwood, South Carolina, was sentenced to death in 1989, according to Wilson's inmate report. In 2006, WIS News 10 in Columbia, South Carolina, reported, "Wilson's lawyers contend South Carolina will be the first state in the nation to execute someone whose mental illness is so severe, a judge ruled he could not conform his conduct to the requirements of the law." Wilson remains on death row. Finally, Eric Huston, the perpetrator of the 1992 Lindhurst High School shooting in Olivehurst, California, was sentenced to death in 1993. The 1992 shooting was the deadliest high school shooting in U.S. history, leaving four dead and 10 injured, until the 1999 school shooting at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A report from The Sacramento Bee on Sept. 21, 1993, said, "Speaking slowing [sic] and somberly, a judge told convicted schoolroom killer Eric Huston, 'I will pray for you,' as he sentenced him to death on Monday." (The Sacramento Bee, Sept. 21, 1993) In 2012, the California Supreme Court upheld the decision on appeal. According to Sacramento's FOX 40, Houston was scheduled for execution in 2022 but was "delayed because of appeals" and then "Governor Gavin Newsom placed an official halt on capital punishment in June 2023." According to a California Incarcerated Records and Information search, Houston is at Pelican Bay State Prison in California "serving a death sentence and is, therefore, not eligible for parole consideration." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For all these reasons, the claim that a school shooter has never been sentenced to death is false. Sources: "18 Years on Death Row: The Shootings." Https://Www.Wistv.Com, 14 Nov. 2006, https://www.wistv.com/story/5672965/18-years-on-death-row-the-shootings. "Article Clipped from St. Louis Post-Dispatch." St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 2 Aug. 1966, p. 1. newspapers.com, https://www.newspapers.com/article/st-louis-post-dispatch/18395498/. Capital Punishment | Bureau of Justice Statistics. https://bjs.ojp.gov/topics/corrections/capital-punishment. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. "Crime: Slaughter in the College of Beauty." Time, 18 Nov. 1966. content.time.com, https://content.time.com/time/subscriber/article/0,33009,828393,00.html. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Federal Prosecutors to Seek Death Penalty for Luigi Mangione in UnitedHealthcare CEO's Killing." AP News, 1 Apr. 2025, https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-killing-luigi-mangione-nyc-29dba97034d4fa81822f481d08cf2842. Kevin Dean Young #670. http://www.clarkprosecutor.org/html/death/US/young670.htm. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. New York State Library Digital Collections. https://nysl.ptfs.com/#!/s?a=c&q=*&type=16&criteria=field11%3D39097691~~browse6_ss%3D%221942%22&b=0. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. Royal, Dakin Andone, Alta Spells,Denise. "Parkland School Shooter Avoids the Death Penalty after Jury Recommends Life in Prison." CNN, 13 Oct. 2022, https://www.cnn.com/2022/10/13/us/nikolas-cruz-jury-deliberation-thursday/index.html. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Supreme Court Upholds Death Penalty For Houston In Lindhurst High Rampage - CBS Sacramento. 2 Aug. 2012, https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/state-supreme-court-upholds-death-penalty-for-houston-in-lindhurst-high-rampage/. "State v. Smith." Justia Law, https://law.justia.com/cases/arizona/supreme-court/1971/1901-0.html. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025. Toler, Carol. "History: Shooting of Lake Highlands Cafeteria Worker Remembered." Lake Highlands, 4 Mar. 2014, https://lakehighlands.advocatemag.com/2014/03/04/history-shooting-lake-highlands-cafeteria-worker-remembered/. "Trials: Two States of Mind." Time, 3 Nov. 1967. content.time.com, https://content.time.com/time/subscriber/article/0,33009,837462,00.html. US Prosecutors to Seek Death Penalty for Luigi Mangione. 1 Apr. 2025, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c30qlr528elo. Claim: Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland father sent to an El Salvador prison due to an "administrative error" by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, is a convicted MS-13 gang member. Rating: Rating: False Context: According to a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement court filing, an immigration judge said that evidence indicated Abrego Garcia was a "verified member" of MS-13. However, the word of an immigration judge is not the same as a criminal conviction and there is no evidence Garcia has ever been convicted of a crime; furthermore, the claim that Abrego Garcia is an MS-13 member appears to rest almost entirely on the word of a confidential police informant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On April 1, 2025, U.S. Vice President JD Vance claimed on X that a Maryland man mistakenly deported to El Salvador, 29-year-old Kilmar Abrego Garcia, was a "convicted MS-13 gang member." (MS-13 is an international criminal gang designated a terrorist organization by the United States.) Vance was replying to former President Barack Obama's speechwriter and "Pod Save America" host Jon Favreau, who asked Vance to comment on "accidentally sending an innocent father from Maryland to a torture dungeon in El Salvador." Favreau referenced The Atlantic's reporting of Abrego Garcia's deportation and subsequent detainment in the Terrorism Confinement Center, also known as CECOT, a Salvadoran mega-prison with harsh conditions; the country's government reportedly does not plan to release any prisoners from there. My comment is that according to the court document you apparently didn't read he was a convicted MS-13 gang member with no legal right to be here. My further comment is that it's gross to get fired up about gang members getting deported while ignoring citizens they victimize. https://t.co/cPnloeyXYk JD Vance (@JDVance) April 1, 2025 Following Vance's post, which received over 140,000 likes as of this writing, some X users supported his claim and others said he lied. Snopes readers also searched our website for information on Abrego Garcia's alleged MS-13 ties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vance's claim is false. In fact, court filings from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement specifically say officials removed Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran citizen, due to "administrative error" and his "purported membership in MS-13." Although the same court documents say ICE officials arrested Abrego Garcia in connection to MS-13, the use of the word "purported" acknowledges that Arbrego Garcia has never been convicted of any MS-13 gang activity. A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement court filing which says that Abrego Garcia's removal from the United States was an "oversight" and that he has "purported membership in MS-13." (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) Abrego Garcia, through court filings, has repeatedly denied any membership with MS-13; a complaint filed on March 24 over his removal to El Salvador against a later order from another immigration judge said on Page 5 that "Abrego Garcia is not a member of or has no affiliation with Tren de Aragua, MS-13, or any other criminal or street gang." "Although he has been accused of general 'gang affiliation,' the U.S. government has never produced an iota of evidence to support this unfounded accusation," the complaint continued on Page 5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to The Associated Press, a federal judge on April 4 ordered the U.S. government to bring Abrego Garcia back to the United States; the AP story said the district judge called his deportation an "illegal act" and his attorney said he had a permit from the Department of Homeland Security to legally work in the United States. The Supreme Court largely affirmed the district judge's order in a unanimous, unsigned opinion on April 10. However, the Trump administration has repeatedly said they cannot and will not bring Abrego Garcia back to the United States; El Salvador's president, Nayib Bukele, also told reporters that he would not return Abrego Garcia, calling the question "preposterous." (An unofficial transcript of Bukele's conversation is available in court documents; see Page 13.) As of this writing, Abrego Garcia is still incarcerated in El Salvador. Maryland Democrat Sen. Chris Van Hollen traveled to El Salvador in an attempt to discuss his constituent's return but said in an April 16 news conference following a meeting with Salvadoran officials that they did not allow him to see Abrego Garcia (see video at 13:05 mark). Vance doubled down on claim, citing faulty evidence After Politico legal affairs reporter Kyle Cheney accurately pointed out on X that the court filings do not say that Abrego Garcia was convicted of anything, Vance said on X about an hour after his original post that Cheney was "apparently unable or unwilling to look at the facts here." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In 2019, an Immigration Judge (under the first Trump administration) determined that the deported man was, in fact, a member of the MS-13 gang. He also apparently had multiple traffic violations for which he failed to appear in court," Vance said. (His initial post said the "Biden administration," not the "Trump administration," which Vance later corrected and clarified in another post.) Court documents filed by Abrego Garcia's attorneys said he has no criminal charges or convictions in the United States, El Salvador or any other country. In fact, documents released by Attorney General Pam Bondi also specifically say that Abrego Garcia has no criminal history, although they also claim he has "been identified as a Member/Active of MS-13." (Abrego Garcia's first name is spelled wrong in this document, but Bondi's post on X said these documents provide "additional information on Kilmar Abrego Garcia."); a search for Abrego Garcia's name in Maryland's judiciary court case system returned no results. Previous Criminal History Subject has no criminal history CRIMINAL AFFILIATIONS File Number Event No: Subject has been identified ae a Member/Active of M.S.13 (U.S. Department of Homeland Security) The court filing from ICE did say that in an April 2019 hearing, an immigration judge denied Abrego Garcia bond "because 'the evidence show[ed] that he is a verified member of [Mara Salvatrucha] ('MS-13')]" and therefore posed a danger to the community" (Page 2). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, again, an immigration judge's determination is not the same as a conviction. Merriam-Webster defines "conviction" as "the act or process of finding a person guilty of a crime especially in a court of law." But in this case, Abrego Garcia was at a bond hearing, meaning the judge's ruling determined whether Abrego Garcia would stay in ICE custody. The immigration detention system in the United States is legally classified as civil, not criminal, meaning this hearing was not over a criminal conviction in the first place. ICE also acknowledged that a judge later "prohibited his removal to El Salvador" (Page 3). ICE officials then arrested Abrego Garcia in March 2025 due to his "prominent role in MS-13," but the court filing does not provide any evidence of his supposed MS-13 membership. White House supported Vance's claim but cited no evidence Following Vance's post, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on April 1 in a briefing to media that there is "a lot of evidence" to back up the vice president's claim (see 14:24). When reporters pressed her for more details, she pivoted: Reporter: A few questions about this deportation case. First, I wanted to clarify something you said to Jeff a few minutes ago. You said you've seen evidence that this man was a convicted gang member. In what court was he convicted and for what? Leavitt: This individual was an MS-13 ringleader. This individual was also engaged in human trafficking. And I'm glad you brought up this point again, because I would like to point out: If you just saw the headline from the insane failing Atlantic magazine this morning, you would think this individual was father of the year, living in Maryland, living a peaceful life, when that couldn't be further from the truth. They didn't even mention in the title of the article or even in the first paragraph that this individual is an illegal criminal who broke our nation's immigration laws. He is a leader in the brutal MS-13 gang and he is involved in human trafficking. And now MS-13 is a designated foreign terrorist organization. Foreign terrorists have no legal protections in the United States of America. And this administration is going to continue to deport foreign terrorists and illegal criminals from our nation's interior. The full exchange between Leavitt and reporters is available on PBS' YouTube page; she speaks on Abrego Garcia's case at 13:16 and again at 20:48. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to Leavitt's comments, a reporter correctly pointed out that "a judge ordered that he should remain in this country." Abrego Garcia won an order in October 2019 prohibiting the government from removing him to El Salvador due to possible persecution from Salvadoran gangs; he initially left El Salvador in 2011 because he was fleeing gang violence, according to his attorneys (pages 5 and 9). As of this writing, the White House has yet to provide credible proof that Abrego Garcia is an MS-13 gang member. According to his attorneys, the only evidence ICE has provided to support its claim was an interview sheet from Prince George County Police Department. The sheet, described on Page 7, "explained that the only reason to believe Plaintiff Abrego Garcia was a gang member was that he was wearing a Chicago Bulls hat and a hoodie; and that a confidential informant advised that he was an active member of MS-13" in the New York chapter a state Abrego Garcia has never lived in. This aligns with the documents released by Bondi, which includes this interview sheet on Page 3. Here's the entire section on Abrego Garcia: Officers then interviewed Kilmar Armando ABREGO-GARCIA. During the interview officers observed he was wearing a Chicago Bulls hat and a hoodie with rolls of money covering the eyes, ears and mouth of the presidents on the separate denominations. Officers know such clothing to be indicative of the Hispanic gang culture. The meaning of the clothing is to represent "ver, oir y callar" or "see no evil, hear- no evil and say no evil". Wearing the Chicago Bulls hat represents thay they are a member in good standing with the MS-13. Officers contacted a past proven and reliable source of information, who advised Kilmar Armando ABREGO-GARCIA is an active member of MS-13 with the Westerns clique. The confidential source further advised that he is the rank of "Chequeo" with the moniker of "Chele". Thus, evidence that Abrego Garcia had any position in MS-13 is scant and primarily the word of a confidential informant; furthermore, it is definitively false that he was convicted of a crime in connection with gang activity. Sources: "Abrego Garcia v. Noem, 8:25-Cv-00951 - CourtListener.com." CourtListener, 2025, storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mdd.578815. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cerna, Robert L. DECLARATION of ROBERT L. CERNA. 31 Mar. 2025, storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mdd.578815/gov.uscourts.mdd.578815.11.3.pdf. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025. "Definition of CONVICTION." Merriam-Webster.com, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conviction. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025. Kim, Seung Min, and Marcos Aleman. "El Salvador President Bukele Says He Won't Be Releasing a Maryland Man back to the US." AP News, 14 Apr. 2025, apnews.com/article/donald-trump-white-house-el-salvador-kilmar-abrego-garcia-ad338d6b4558a6aba80e8290fd3eece9. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025. "Maryland Judiciary Case Search." State.md.us, casesearch.courts.state.md.us/casesearch/inquiry-index.jsp. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Miroff, Nick. "The Atlantic." The Atlantic, theatlantic, 31 Mar. 2025, www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/03/an-administrative-error-sends-a-man-to-a-salvadoran-prison/682254/. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025. Office of The Spokesperson. "Designation of International Cartels - United States Department of State." United States Department of State, 20 Feb. 2025, www.state.gov/designation-of-international-cartels/. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025. Saadi, Altaf, et al. "Understanding US Immigration Detention: Reaffirming Rights and Addressing Social-Structural Determinants of Health." Health and Human Rights, vol. 22, no. 1, June 2020, p. 187, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7348446/. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025. Sandoval-Moshenberg, Simon. Abrego Garcia v. Noem: COMPLAINT for INJUNCTIVE RELIEF and DECLARATORY JUDGMENT. Mar. 2024, storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mdd.578815/gov.uscourts.mdd.578815.1.0_1.pdf. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supreme Court of the United States. KRISTI NOEM, SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT of HOMELAND SECURITY, et AL. V. KILMAR ARMANDO ABREGO GARCIA, et AL. ON APPLICATION to VACATE INJUNCTION ENTERED by the UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT for the DISTRICT of MARYLAND. 10 Apr. 2025, www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/24pdf/24a949_lkhn.pdf. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025. Updates: April 16, 2025: This story was updated to include new developments in Kilmar Abrego's case and what U.S. and Salvadoran officials said regarding calls to return him to the United States. April 16, 2025: This story was updated with new information from the White House corroborating our findings. Claim: For tax filing year 2024, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service was allowing deductions on pet expenses. Rating: Rating: Mixture What's True: It was indeed possible to claim tax deductions in certain scenarios, such as medical costs for licensed service animals, performance animals, donations to qualifying nonprofits that support animal welfare, or pet-related moving costs for active-duty service members forced to relocate due to orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What's False: However, pets couldn't be claimed as dependents in the same way as qualifying children or relatives. Further, tax deductions for service animals existed before the 2024 filing year. As the deadline for U.S. citizens to file their 2024 tax returns loomed in late March 2025, claims pertaining to purported tax deductions for pet owners circulated on social media. Multiple users on Instagram (archived, archived), TikTok (archived) and Threads (archived) posted about this alleged "exciting news for pet owners," though most posts buried crucial context, if it was present at all. Nearly all instances claimed these pet-related deductions began in the tax-preparation year of 2025 (for 2024 filings). Some truth exists to the claim that the IRS allows certain tax deductions on pet expenses, but critical requirements must be met. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and tax preparation services, these deductions are not simply for standard pet owners, nor can pets be claimed as a dependent in the same way as qualifying children or relatives. Rather, most pet-related deductions pertain to care for a licensed service animal, according to the IRS' Publication 502, which also "explains the itemized deduction for medical and dental expenses that you claim on Schedule A (Form 1040)." Further, these service-animal deductions have been possible before 2024. For example, Publication 502 for the filing year 2008 also cites possible deductions for service animals. For all of these reasons, we've rated this claim as a mixture of truth and falsehood. The "Guide Dog or Other Service Animal" section of Publication 502 for the filing year 2024 reads: You can include in medical expenses the costs of buying, training, and maintaining a guide dog or other service animal to assist a visually impaired or hearing disabled person, or a person with other physical disabilities. In general, this includes any costs, such as food, grooming, and veterinary care, incurred in maintaining the health and vitality of the service animal so that it may perform its duties. Important to note is the language above specifies "physical disabilities." On a page dedicated to tax deductions on the National Service Animal Registry website, the organization adds that "you are only eligible if your medical expense exceeds 10% of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)," which would include "wages, business income, dividends, and other income." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The blog for Intuit TurboTax, a tax preparation service, cites additional instances that may allow for pet-related tax deductions, such as owning a business that requires the use of animals. This could include performance animals (such as those used on a movie set) or even those that work as a social media influencer. TurboTax says: If your pet is making money as an influencer, it could be viewed by the IRS as your own self-employed business if your pet is generating income for you in the dog modeling/acting category on a regular basis. In some cases, pet-related expenses could be considered business expenses and offset against your pet's earnings. TurboTax also cites expenses related to fostering animals from a qualified 501(c)(3) organization as a potential write-off, including pet food, veterinary bills and supplies. IRS Publication 526 additionally cites donations related to qualified nonprofit organizations that "are religious, charitable, educational, scientific, or literary in purpose, or that work to prevent cruelty to children or animals" are also eligible for deduction. Newsweek points out other scenarios where pet expense tax deductions may be possible: For "active-duty military member[s] moving due to orders, pet relocation costs can still be claimed as part of moving expenses." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Newsweek article also states, "For those setting up a pet trust, legal fees associated with establishing the trust may be deductible in some cases. However, routine pet expenses such as food and toys are still not deductible under personal tax returns." However, tax deductions can be complex, nuanced and particular to an individual's financial holdings and employment status. This article should not be considered financial advice. Please visit a qualified financial adviser if you have questions about items that may be eligible for tax deductions. Sources: About Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses | Internal Revenue Service. https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-502. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025. "Can You Claim Pets on Tax Returns? What to Know." Newsweek, 1 Feb. 2025, https://www.newsweek.com/can-you-claim-pets-tax-returns-what-we-know-2024512. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Codys. "Service Animal Tax Deductions: Maximizing Tax Benefits." NSARCO, 27 Apr. 2022, https://www.nsarco.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-service-dogs-and-taxes/. Dependents | Internal Revenue Service. https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/dependents. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025. Publication 526 (2024), Charitable Contributions | Internal Revenue Service. https://www.irs.gov/publications/p526. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025. TurboTaxBlogTeam. "Is There a Pet Tax Credit? Are Pet Expenses Deductible?" Blog, 22 Jan. 2024, https://blog.turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/can-i-claim-my-pet-as-a-dependent-53/. As the stock market reeled Friday from President Donald Trumps move to institute widespread global tariffs, Trump shared a video on Truth Social that erroneously claimed legendary investor Warren Buffett praised his recent economic policies. Here's a closer look at the facts. CLAIM: Warren Buffett said President Donald Trump is is making the best economic moves hes seen in 50 years. THE FACTS: This is false. Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett's company, issued a statement shortly after Trump posted the video, calling reports on social media attributing comments to Buffett false. Buffett told a reporter Friday that he won't be commenting on the economy until Berkshire Hathaway's annual meeting later this spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are reports currently circulating on social media (including Twitter, Facebook and TikTok) regarding comments allegedly made by Warren E. Buffett. All such reports are false, reads the Berkshire Hathaway statement. The company did not specify which reports the statement was referring to and did not respond to requests for clarification. In the video the president shared, a voiceover states as it shows a clip of Buffett: Trump is purposely crashing the stock market by 20% this month, but he's doing it on purpose. And this is why Warren Buffett just said Trump is making the best economic moves he's seen in over 50 years. The video's audio comes from a March 13 Instagram post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNBC reporter Becky Quick reported Friday that Buffett said any quotes circulating on social media about the current economic situation that are purportedly from him are not authentic. He says that hes not talking to anybody about anything related to the markets, the economy or tariffs, and that he will not be doing that between now and the annual meeting for Berkshire Hathaway, which takes place on Saturday, May 3, Quick said in a CNBC segment. However, Buffett did speak briefly about tariffs in an interview for CBS News' "Sunday Morning that aired March 2. Tariffs are actually, weve had a lot of experience with them. Theyre an act of war to some degree, he said in response to a question on how he thinks tariffs will effect the economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was vaguer when asked how he sees the state of the economy saying, I cant talk about it now, I really cant. In recent years, Buffett has stopped commenting on politics or other controversial subjects because, he has said, he doesnt want to hurt Berkshires businesses by offending anyone. The longtime Democrat hasnt publicly backed any candidates for office since Hillary Clinton ran for president. He did offer advice addressed to Uncle Sam in his most recent annual letter to shareholders, reminding the country that we need you to maintain a stable currency and that result requires both wisdom and vigilance on your part. Representatives for Trump did not respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The S&P 500 lost 6% Friday after China matched Trumps big raise in tariffs announced earlier this week. The move increased the stakes in a trade war that could end with a recession. ___ Associated Press writer Josh Funk contributed to this report. ___ Find AP Fact Checks here: https://apnews.com/APFactCheck. SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea will hold a snap presidential election within 60 days after the Constitutional Court unanimously removed President Yoon Suk Yeol from office on Friday, upholding his impeachment for imposing martial law last year. Presidents can serve a single five-year term in South Korea, and recent opinion polls show the leader of the main opposition Democratic Party is well ahead, though he faces his own legal challenges. Here are some potential contenders for the presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LEE JAE-MYUNG The Democratic Party leader is regarded as by far the top contender. The veteran politician lost to Yoon in the 2022 presidential election by the slimmest margin in history. Leading by double-digits in some recent polls, Lee is among the lawmakers who rushed to the National Assembly on the night of Yoon's December 3 martial law declaration to ensure parliament voted down the military order. Lee, 61, led his party to a landslide victory in a parliamentary election last year and enjoys strong support from liberal voters. Still, Lee has his own court battles. Although a court threw out his guilty verdict on charges of violating the election law, he faces several trials on matters ranging from bribery to charges mostly linked to a $1-billion property development scandal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, he survived a knife attack at an event and underwent surgery for stabs to the neck. HAN DONG-HOON The ex-leader of South Korea's ruling People Power Party is considered a top conservative contender. He was a particularly vocal opponent of Yoon's martial law declaration. The 51-year-old prosecutor-turned-politician resigned as PPP leader amid friction in the party over his call for Yoon to resign over the martial law declaration. Han is popular with moderate conservative voters but faced criticism from Yoon supporters who accused Han of betraying his party and allowing Yoon's impeachment by the National Assembly in December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KIM MOON-SOO The labour minister has been polling higher than other conservative contenders, though he has said he was not considering running for the presidency. Kim, like many other conservative politicians, criticised the arrest of Yoon and the impeachment hearings conducted by the Constitutional Court. The 73-year-old would likely be the oldest candidate if he decides to run. OH SE-HOON The conservative four-term mayor of Seoul is an advocate for South Korea to consider nuclear armament to counter arch rival North Korea. "Along with having nuclear potential, we need to be prepared to put our own nuclear weapons on the table as a possible strategic option," he posted on Facebook in January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oh this year unveiled his regulatory reform slogan "KOGA (Korea Growth Again)", inspired by U.S. President Donald Trump's MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement. Oh's reforms target boosting the economic growth rate to 5% from last year's 2%. HONG JOON-PYO Hong, mayor of the conservative stronghold Daegu, has said he is preparing for the next presidential election even while calling for the Constitutional Court not to oust Yoon. The five-term lawmaker for the PPP and its predecessors lost the 2017 presidential election to Moon Jae-in. Hong has been a vocal critic of ruling party former leader Han for distancing himself from Yoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KIM DONG-YEON The governor of Gyeonggi Province has emerged as another potential contender from the opposition. Kim told Reuters in January that "there might be tough times ahead of us, especially for countries like Korea" and that the alliance between Seoul and Washington will be "very concrete", whoever heads the administration. He said whoever stands for the Democratic Party should win the election. (Reporting by Hyunsu Yim; Additional Reporting by Joyce Lee and Echo Wang in Davos; Editing by Ed Davies, Michael Perry and William Mallard) BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) A 30-year-old man was arrested for his alleged connection to a bank robbery on Monday. Gadsden man arrested on theft charges Geron Scott, of Fairfield, was arrested after officers obtained a warrant for third-degree robbery. Scott was booked into the Jefferson County Jail with a $15,000 bond. Around 3:30 p.m. Monday, officers arrived to Chase Bank to the 2400 block of Crossplex Boulevard on reports of a robbery. They learned that the suspect walked into the bank, handed the teller a note demanding money, then fled in a vehicle. BPDs Real Time Crime Center provided information that aided them in capturing the suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. Lavier Pounds, a volunteer with TransYOUniting, of the North Side, rallies the crowd in the rain outside UPMCs Downtown headquarters as they call for UPMC to reinstate gender-affirming care for people under 19, on Thursday, April 3, 2025. Its okay to be ourselves," said Pounds. "Im here to help us uprise." (Photo by Stephanie Strasburg/PublicSource) T his article first appeared on PublicSource and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. About 200 people turned out in rainy weather to rally outside UPMC headquarters in downtown Pittsburgh Thursday evening. Standing under rainbow umbrellas and waving trans pride flags, they rebuked the health care giant for rolling back young peoples access to gender-affirming care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advocacy groups including TransYOUniting, the Pennsylvania Youth Congress and others organized the action after learning that UPMC Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh had stopped providing gender-affirming health services to LGBTQ+ kids. They viewed the move as a capitulation to the Trump administrations plan to exclude trans people from public life. Several children were in attendance, including Oliver, 10, of Lawrenceville who waved a Protect Trans Kids sign while chanting slogans with the crowd. Im mad because Im transgender, they said. PublicSource is withholding Olivers last name at the request of their parent, K.T. Fishbein, an echocardiographer at Childrens Hospital. Like most trans and nonbinary children, Oliver isnt seeking gender-affirming care yet. But Fishbein was pretty upset by their employers decision to deny care to the children who need it, and worries that Oliver and others may not have access in the future. I love what I do at Childrens. I love my community there, Fishbein said. But this makes you feel really let down. Cori Fraser reads a letter to UPMC asking for the health care provider to resume gender-affirming care for people under 19 while their child Salem holds an umbrella as rain falls at a rally outside of UPMCs Downtown headquarters, on April 3. Salem, who is 18, was denied a planned top surgery by UPMC that was scheduled for March 24 following President Donald Trumps executive order seeking to bar gender-affirming care for people under the age of 19. (Photo by Stephanie Strasburg/PublicSource) During the rally, organizers attempted to deliver a letter signed by Mayor Ed Gainey and 14 other state and local officials to UPMC leadership. It wasnt accepted, but it called on the executives to: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Immediately restore access to gender-affirming care at Childrens Hospital Establish an advisory committee that includes trans youth to oversee administration of care Fund alternative providers if a court order bars it from providing gender-affirming care, among other demands. You are choosing to send a devastating message to the entire trans community that their health and futures are negotiable under political pressure, they wrote to UPMC executives. Continuing to provide comparable medical care to cisgender young people but not transgender youth is discrimination. In a speech, Gainey told rallygoers to stand up and force UPMC to do the right thing. Asked if the city has the leverage to pressure UPMC to restore access to gender-affirming care, he wrote, the City of Pittsburgh has laws on the books to ensure people have equal access to health care regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. My administrations law department is examining legal avenues to enforce our citys non-discrimination policies, and we expect health systems that operate here to follow the law, he said in a statement to PublicSource after the rally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rallies were also held today in Erie, Altoona, Lancaster, and Lewisburg all cities where UPMC operates. Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey gets a hug from Dena Stanley, founder and with TransYOUniting, as he speaks to a crowd outside UPMCs Downtown headquarters while calling for UPMC to reinstate gender-affirming care for people under 19, on April 3. Look upstairs to UPMC and ask them, can they see you having each others back to stand up to Donald Trump so that they can get some courage and do the same thing? said Gainey. (Photo by Stephanie Strasburg/PublicSource) In January, President Donald Trump issued an executive order that threatens to pull federal funding from hospitals, medical schools and other institutions that provide gender-affirming care to minors, which it defines as those under age 19. The orders language specifically mentions puberty blockers, hormone therapy and surgery all of which are medically necessary for those who suffer from gender dysphoria, according to a consensus among major medical associations. A federal judge in Maryland extended a nationwide injunction last month that blocks enforcement of the order. The White House didnt immediately respond to a question about its compliance with the court, though it said in February that the order is already having its intended effect. The statement listed six hospitals, including one in Philadelphia, that were pausing or reviewing gender-affirming services for minors. Some large health systems quickly bent to the pressure and began turning young LGBTQ+ patients away just days after Trump signed the executive order. UPMC may have waited longer before quietly changing its policies around gender-affirming care for minors. Patients and their families told reporters last month that its providers had stopped prescribing puberty blockers and hormones. And it canceled an 18-year-olds top surgery, which was scheduled for March 24. River White, center, of Castle Shannon, rallies outside UPMCs Downtown headquarters on April 3. I have to rely on UPMC for a lot, and its ridiculous that theyre complying with a ridiculous and hurtful order, said White. (Photo by Stephanie Strasburg/PublicSource) A spokesperson wrote that UPMC is monitoring federal directives that affect its ability to provide specific types of care to patients under 19. We continue to offer necessary behavioral health and other support within the bounds of the law. We empathize with the patients and families who are directly affected by these ongoing changes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The spokesperson didnt answer detailed questions about UPMCs rationale for denying young patients who need gender-affirming care, the role federal funding may have played in that decision, and the specific services it chose to eliminate. Advocates characterized UPMCs actions as a shocking and premature indulgence of the administrations anti-trans agenda. They pointed to lawsuits arguing the executive order is unconstitutional, the nationwide injunction blocking its enforcement and the City of Pittsburghs sanctuary laws shielding providers from criminalization. What UPMC is doing is preemptive and theres no basis for it, said Dena Stanley, a lead organizer of the rally and the executive director of TransYOUniting. The nonprofit serves LGBTQ+ and HIV-positive people, and helps run the QMNTY Center, a safe haven for the community on the North Side. We all understand what Trump is trying to do, but they also have power, she said, noting that UPMC has the legal resources to stand up and fight back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stanley pointed out that UPMC is a major provider of gender-affirming surgeries in Western Pennsylvania. Its domination of the regional market leaves young people who need top surgeries with few alternatives unless they can afford to travel. These children are just devastated, she said. And their families are devastated. Allegheny Health Network, the regions other big health system, offers gender-affirming care at its Center for Inclusion Health, a low-barrier clinic on the North Side. Its Transgender Health Program provides primary care and surgical services including facial feminization and chest reconstruction. AHN remains committed to supporting the comprehensive needs of these patients, including primary care, surgical care and mental health support, while complying with all applicable laws, a spokesperson wrote in response to detailed questions. Some independently owned clinics are opening their doors to the young trans and queer patients who were denied care by UPMC. About two weeks ago, providers from Childrens Hospital started referring these patients to Allegheny Reproductive Health Center an East Liberty clinic offering a range of gender-affirming services, according to Sheila Ramgopal, the centers chief executive and an obstetrician and gynecologist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramgopal said the providers were distraught while they spoke with the centers staff, explaining they had been pulled into a closed-door meeting with UPMC executives. The executives reportedly told them they could no longer provide gender-affirming services to LGBTQ+ children, including hormone therapy and surgical services. Dena Stanley, founder and with TransYOUniting, delivers a letter asking for gender-affirming care to be reinstated for people under 19 to UPMCs Downtown headquarters, on April 3. No one from UPMC accepted the letter and it was left at the headquarters door. (Photo by Stephanie Strasburg/PublicSource) Were getting emails and messages from these providers who are desperately trying to find their clients care My hats off to them for really trying to find places where people can go and still be safe, and hopefully they dont get in trouble for doing that. If UPMC continues this policy in the long-term, Ramgopal predicted that some gender-affirming care providers will leave its system to treat young patients elsewhere. But non-compete agreements may bar them from working for other employers in the county, which means the region would lose their medical expertise unless UPMC agrees to not to enforce those agreements, they said. Ramgopal said theres precedent: UPMC allows abortion providers to leave its system for jobs at Allegheny Reproductive Health Center, Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania and other independent facilities in the county. But theyre still barred from joining the AHN system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My hope is this would be a negotiable issue with UPMC, they said. Theres a lot of providers who live and work in Pittsburgh who want to continue to do this work here. A spokesperson didnt answer a question about UPMCs flexibility around non-compete agreements. Venuri Siriwardane is PublicSources health and mental health reporter. She can be reached at venuri@publicsource.org or on Bluesky @venuri.bsky.social. Stephanie Strasburg is a photojournalist with PublicSource who can be reached at stephanie@publicsource.org, on Instagram @stephaniestrasburg. The Jewish Healthcare Foundation has contributed funding to PublicSources health care reporting. MANILA (Reuters) - Families of Philippine drug war victims who say they have been targeted by a "coordinated" campaign of online harassment urged law enforcers on Friday to investigate the attacks and identify those responsible to help them pursue legal action. Among them is Sheerah Escudero, whose 18-year-old brother's bloodied body was found in 2017 with hands bound and head wrapped in packaging tape. Like others who have spoken out, she has faced intense harassment online since former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 11 and taken to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, where he awaits trial. "The families have been subjected to online bashing and intimidation. They've been called liars, paid hacks and fake victims," said Katherine Panguban of the National Union of People's Lawyers, who is representing Escudero and other victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Escudero previously told Reuters her Facebook account had been flooded with comments and direct messages calling her a drug addict and a liar for seeking justice in her brother's case, and accusing her of being paid to malign Duterte. Escudero and four others, including Kristina Conti, a human rights lawyer representing drug war victims who has also been attacked online, called on the National Bureau of Investigation to trace the identities and IP addresses of the individuals behind the social media attacks and spread of false information. Conti previously said such tactics increasingly aimed to discredit families of those killed. "We hope the NBI can assist in unmasking the individuals responsible so appropriate legal action can be taken," Panguban said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond the online attacks, a wave of false claims has swept social media, with Duterte supporters likening his arrest to "kidnapping." Reuters also found paid Facebook advertisements promoting the former president. Duterte, who led the Philippines from 2016-2022, is facing allegations of crimes against humanity for overseeing death squads in his anti-drugs crackdown that left thousands dead. The 80-year-old Duterte, who could become the first Asian ex-head of state to go on trial in The Hague, has said he takes full responsibility for his administration's "war on drugs." (Reporting by Eloisa Lopez and Karen Lema; Editing by Kate Mayberry) For the first time, the FBI and US Attorneys Office publicly commented on the fight that happened at Ardrey Kell High School last month. The fight involved a 15-year-old girl and boy. The 15-year-old girls family alleged it was started by the boy with racial intent. The girls family said she suffered significant injuries and called for hate crime charges. The 15-year-old boys family alleged it was in self-defense and no racial slurs were used. They say the boy was bullied by the girl and the girl started the fight. CMPD released a statement Wednesday saying no such charges will be filed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED >> Theres only one truth: Family disputes hate crime allegations in Ardrey Kell fight In a new statement released Friday, the FBI and US Attorneys Office said no information was presented to them to show a potential federal violation. While we understand the concern surrounding such incidents, federal authorities initiate investigations and begin to take investigative steps, including conducting interviews, after an initial assessment of the available information indicates a potential federal violation, the statement said. At this time, there is no indication that the conduct implicates any federal laws, and in particular, federal hate crimes laws. The FBI and US Attorneys Office say they remain in contact with CMPD should any new information become available and because the incident involves juveniles, they are limited in what can be said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters of the girls family held a second news conference Friday afternoon, calling on CMS and CMPD to release additional information. Supporters of the girl are asking for CMS to release hallway footage of the fight. They say it shows the boy attacking the girl. They are also calling on CMPD to explain how they came to the conclusion no hate crime occurred. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Family calls for change after fight at local high school We would like to request to have them look at it again and give this the thorough investigation that we asked for at the first press conference, supporter Jibril Hough said. We do not feel that this has happened. A spokesperson for CMS said they have no additional information to share. The spokesperson said a records request is necessary for the hallway fight footage. Channel 9 submitted the request, Friday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for CMPD did not respond to multiple emails from Channel 9 seeking additional comment. Family members of the girl are considering a lawsuit against CMS. Both sides say they have witnesses that support their accounts of the incident. VIDEO: Family disputes hate crime allegations in Ardrey Kell fight In George Steiners first book, Tolstoy or Dostoevsky, Steiner promotes the theory that the two great literary traditions of the 19th century the golden age of the genre had nowhere left to go: the European in general and the Russian in particular. With Flaubert, Balzac, Dickens, Zola, Stendhal, Turgenev, Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, a point of perfection had been reached, but also of saturation. How to continue with a universal vision? Steiner asks himself. He finds the answer on the other side of the Atlantic with the explosion of North American literature. Steiner does not indicate a specific starting point, but it could be said that the foundational moment coincides with the death of Edgar Allan Poe, in 1849. The following five years witnessed an outpouring of collective talent that would lay the foundations for the literary future of the then democratic and still young American nation. The big bang came at the midpoint of the century, between 1850 and 1855, when the formidable figures of Herman Melville, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry Thoreau and Walt Whitman published works whose influence lives on today. To these authors we must add Emily Dickinson, who secretly wrote poems of a caliber comparable to those of Whitman. Amazingly, during that prodigious five-year period, Moby Dick, The Scarlet Letter, Walden: or Life in the Woods and Leaves of Grass were published, as well as Emersons Representative Men. Thus began a dizzying journey through the literary cosmos that would not be matched until exactly a century ago, in 1925, commonly considered the annus mirabilis of American literary history. View of the lobby of Grand Central Station in New York in 1925. Edwin Levick (Hulton Archive / Getty Images) Focusing on novels alone, that year saw the publication of four titles of great historical resonance: An American Tragedy, by Theodore Dreiser; The Making of Americans, by Gertrude Stein; Manhattan Transfer, by John Dos Passos, and The Great Gatsby, by Francis Scott Fitzgerald. To these should be added In Our Time, Ernest Hemingways first collection of short stories. Also in 1925, William Faulkner received the news that a New York publisher had accepted the manuscript of his first novel, Soldiers Pay. But that was not all: further enriching the years extraordinary literary harvest was In the American Grain, a collection of essays in which William Carlos Williams examines fundamental aspects of his countrys history and literature. In poetry a discipline that always exerts a determining influence on avant-garde prose the enigmatic E. E. Cummings published XLI Poems, and H. D. her Collected Poems. That year, the two major poets of Anglo-American modernism also published works that offered a glimpse of the magnitude of their future contributions, T. S. Eliot the selection entitled Poems 1909-1925, and Ezra Pound the inaugural segment of The Cantos. Returning to the novel during that year, it is important to introduce some nuance. With An American Tragedy, Dreiser took the tradition of naturalism inherited from Emile Zola and ran with it. Over 800 pages, the author fictionalized the story of the murder of Grace Brown by Chester Gillette, who was sentenced to death and executed in the electric chair in a case that aroused unusual interest in the press at the time. The novel is a tragedy that caused a sensation for its psychological depth and its approach to the facts, transforming them into a profound aesthetic experience. Contemporary critics affirmed that it was the worst written American novel of all time, but the strength with which Dreiser narrates the nuances of the tragedy compensates for the stylistic defects, otherwise undeniable. The novel is unreadable today. Even more unreadable, if possible, is The Making of Americans, a narrative of almost 1,000 pages in which Gertrude Stein seeks to transfer the findings of Cubism into literature, telling the story of her ancestors in an experimental vein, based on insufferable repetitions. When a critic as shrewd as Janet Malcolm made the firm resolution to read it decades later, she was forced to literally cut it up to try to make it digestible, failing in the endeavor. Without denying its reputation of being the least read novel of all time, Edmund Wilson said of The Making of Americans that, behind its impenetrability, there were valuable gems that justified taking up the challenge, something that countless generations of writers have done and continue to do, even in a fragmentary way. Based in Paris for many years, Stein was a friend and mentor of figures such as Picasso, Matisse, Hemingway, Blaise Cendrars, Thornton Wilder and Fitzgerald. Her influence has more to do with the force of her personality than with her literary work, though she racked up some memorable achievements, most notably the masterful Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas. Manhattan Transfer, by John Dos Passos, who Jean Paul Sartre once said was the best American novelist of his time, has not aged well either. The novel mixes cinematic montage with journalese, a lesson learned directly from James Joyce. It is extremely interesting that three of the supposedly four great American novels of 1925 are of archeological interest today. This reflects Ezra Pounds idea that the history of literature should be told like that of scientific advances, according to the contributions that renew the art of narration. Francis Scott Fitzgerald, author of 'The Great Gatsby', published in 1925. Library of Congress (Corbis / VCG / Getty Images) The case of The Great Gatsby is very different. When it was published, it went relatively unnoticed and the reviews it received were mostly indifferent or hostile, with a few notable exceptions. One hundred years after its publication, Fitzgeralds novel not only retains its freshness, but is considered one of the most perfect narratives ever to come out of his country. Edmund Wilson was one of the first to point out its greatness, and T.S. Eliot said of it that It seems to me to be the first step that American fiction has taken since Henry James The novel tells the story of Jay Gatsby, a millionaire who makes his fortune by bootlegging alcohol during the Prohibition. The novels portrayal of the jazz era is unparalleled. In the background, a tragic love story unfolds, narrated by the endearing Nick Carraway. Set between New York and Long Island during the roaring 1920s, the narrative demonstrates absolute technical mastery and emotional depth. In addition to several film versions, the novel has been echoed in works by Raymond Chandler, Philip Roth, Ross MacDonald and Spanish-speaking authors Ernesto Quinones and Hernan Diaz. The other valid narrative lesson of 1925 is given by Hemingway in his first short stories, which, as in the case of Fitzgeralds novel, can be said to be an example of literary perfection. His influence on future generations is incalculable and reaches a long list of short story masters, such as Raymond Carver, Richard Ford, Denis Johnson and, because of the spare, conciseness of his prose, the novels of Cormac McCarthy. The historical importance of 1925 is highlighted by the formidable zigzagging of forces that took place between the three major narrators of the period. The American narrative genome is the result of two extraordinarily fertile frictions: on the one hand, that between the slender elegance of Fitzgerald and the subtle austere prose of Hemingway, and on the other, that of the baroque style of Faulkner, whose name first appears at that time, and Hemingways containment. Cormac McCarthy is heir to both. Although extraordinarily rich and diverse, the panorama outlined so far is incomplete. There are many more titles and authors of note, some of which have faded into oblivion, while others have managed to maintain our interest in one way or another. In 1925, novels were published by Willa Cather, Sinclair Lewis, Edith Wharton and Sherwood Anderson. One work that is still unusually alive is Anita Loos Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, of which there was a musical and several film versions, one of them starring Marilyn Monroe. Being bang in the middle of the jazz era, 1925 takes us to the very heart of Black culture. Among the seminal titles published that year is Alain LeRoy Lockes anthology The New Negro, which heralds a culturally crucial event, the Harlem Renaissance, which involved writers, artists and activists of the highest caliber, including Duke Ellington, W. E. B. Du Bois, Aaron Douglas, Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, Zora Neale Hurston, Jean Toomer and Claude McKay. An iconic publication of the era was The Book of American Negro Spirituals, edited by James Weldon Johnson. In 1925, Louis Armstrong recorded his first jazz quintet, the first Texas blues recordings were made, and New York blues recordings reached the top of the charts. In music, George Gershwin and Aaron Copland were in full swing, as were Edward Hopper and African-Americans Aaron Douglas, Augusta Savage and Archibald Motley in the art world, the latter associated with the Harlem and Jazz Renaissance. The excellent writer Adela Nora Rogers St. Johns kicks off the Hollywood novel genre with The Skyrocket. An anecdote with more significance than one might at first think is that 1925 saw the inauguration of an essential element of future road novels penned by Nabokov, Sam Shepard and Jack Kerouac and the beatniks: the countrys first motel in San Luis Obispo, California. And one of the major events that year whose importance cannot be overstated was the founding of The New Yorker on February 17, the best literary magazine of all time and a true showcase of American literature including masterly profiles, poetry, caricature, cultural criticism in all its guises and fiction signed by some of the most important names in world literature. Important as it is, The New Yorker is but a small part of the story. If anything reverberates strongly a century later, it is the importance of the cultural legacy of African-Americans, literary as well as artistic and musical. While the works of Dos Passos, Dreiser and Stein have struggled to remain relevant, those of African-Americans are filling our bookshops. There is no direct line connecting them to what happened the year The Great Gatsby was published, but a century later some of the most prominent names on the literary scene are African-American: Ta-Nehisi Coates, Kevin Young, Colson Whitehead, Jesmyn Ward, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Roxane Gay. One of the effects of their contribution is a shakeup of the rules. The drummer of the Broadway Band at the Palais de Danse. Topical Press Agency (Getty Images) Without getting too woke, it must be said that The Great Gatsby contains some problematic elements, and its world is exclusively white. None of this is to detract from its greatness, of course, but some things needed to change. The much maligned as well as brilliant Hemingway, prototype of the alpha male writer, once said that the history of the American novel began with the publication of Mark Twains The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. True enough. Significantly, the most recent National Book Award-winning novel is James, in which African-American writer Percival Everett rewrites Twains work from the perspective of his Black protagonist, expunging it of its most problematic aspects without detracting one iota from its literary merit. Many things have changed in American culture in the last 100 years, including how we understand literature, but what is perhaps most notable is something that Norman Mailer and more recently Timothy Snyder once complained of: in todays America, the democratic spirit represented by such emblematic figures as Walt Whitman and Thoreau is conspicuously absent. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition A family of three a 12-year-old girl, her father and her mother is reported to be among the five people killed by a Russian drone strike on a residential building in the city of Kharkiv on 3 April. Source: Ukraine's National Police in Kharkiv Oblast; Kharkiv Oblast Prosecutor's Office Details: The death toll of the attack has reached five people. Emergency workers retrieved four mutilated and burnt bodies from under the rubble, including those of a family a 12-year-old girl, her father, and her mother found beneath the ruins of their home. The body of a 45-year-old man, their neighbour, was also recovered. Police investigators have taken DNA samples from their relatives to identify the deceased. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An 88-year-old man who had been taken to hospital in a serious condition after the drone strike reportedly died in hospital on the morning of Friday 4 April. Previously: On the evening of 3 April, Russian forces attacked Kharkiv with Geran-2 (Shahed-136) loitering munitions. The drone strike damaged residential buildings and cars and started fires. A section of an apartment block in the Novobavarskyi district was ruined. Reports indicate that 34 people, including 3 minors, sustained various injuries and stress. Police and emergency workers continue to deal with the aftermath of the attacks, documenting the scene and collecting material evidence. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! KANSAS CITY, Mo. A family in south Kansas City is grieving not only the loss of a mother and a father, but also the baby they were expecting. My child was pregnant with a baby, so its not two lives gone, its three lives gone, said Desiree Johnson, the mother of Aminah Johnson, who was killed in a shooting Monday night. Now, Desiree is offering her own reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for the tragic death of her daughter and her daughters fiance, Derrick Rhodes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vernon County tornado leaves residents stunned: Keep us in your prayers The couple was shot and killed after a dispute with friends near 98th and Marsh Avenue. To make the pain even more heartbreaking, family members say the person who pulled the trigger was someone Aminah and Derrick considered a friend. I dont understand how a friend and someone that my daughter and her fiance helped could ever get it to a point where now youre killing them, Desiree Johnson said, expressing her outrage and confusion over the senseless act. Aminah Johnson, a mother of two with another child on the way, had a close friendship with the person who allegedly turned on her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Desiree said that Aminah and her fiance had recently had a falling out with their friends, one of whom had vandalized Aminahs home. That confrontation escalated, leading to gunshots and the couples deaths. I dont know if pissed off is the word, Desiree said. This same young lady was supposed to be coming to Florida with my daughter, taking trips with my daughter my daughter and her did hair together. You acted like a friend to my child and then you turned around and killed my child. Kansas City police took one man into custody but released him due to lack of evidence. Desiree Johnson, devastated by the lack of answers, is now hoping a public reward will spur someone to come forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now when I talk to detectives, they tell me that nobody is talking so Im here to say that were putting up a $5,000 reward for anyone who has information that can lead to the arrest and conviction, she said. KCK police continue search for missing 39-year-old father The pain has only grown for Desiree as she now has to break the heartbreaking news to Aminahs young children. I dont know I havent figured that out yet. How do you tell your grandchildren its all indescribable for me my emotions, needless to say, are everywhere, Desiree responded. Desiree is now focusing on planning a funeral and caring for Aminahs 4 and 7-year-olds, who are left to face a world without their mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The TIPS Hotline is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.- The family is also adding an additional $5,000 to that reward. If you have information, call 816-474-TIPS. FOX4 reached out to the Kansas City Police Department, but they could not comment further as the investigation remains open. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. The family of a Southern California father who was shot and killed by a San Bernardino County sheriffs deputy has filed a $30 million wrongful death claim against the department. On Dec. 16, 2024, Metro workers called authorities after seeing a man trespassing on the Metrolink rails between Nevada and California Streets in Redlands at around 7:30 a.m. Authorities arrived at the scene and saw Jefte Vargas Ramirez, 37, of Redlands, walking on the rail lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When a male deputy asked Ramirez to leave the area, they said he refused to cooperate and became confrontational while arming himself with rocks in both hands. As Ramirez walked towards the deputy, authorities claimed he approached in an aggressive manner which prompted the deputy to open fire. Jefte Vargas Ramirez, 37, of Redlands, is seen in a photo provided by family. Cellphone video captured by a witness showed Jefte Ramirez approaching the deputy with his arms outstretched while standing on the railroad tracks in Redlands on Dec. 16, 2024. (Dale Galipo) Cellphone video captured by a witness showed Jefte Ramirez turning to run away after a San Bernardino County sheriffs deputy began shooting at him on the railroad tracks in Redlands on Dec. 16, 2024. (Dale Galipo) At a press conference on April 3, 2025, attorney Dale Galipo demonstrates the position of Jefte Ramirezs outstretched arms when he was fatally shot. (KTLA) An investigation is underway after Jefte Ramirez was shot and killed by a a San Bernardino County sheriffs deputy on the railroad tracks in Redlands on Dec. 16, 2024. (OnScene.TV) An investigation is underway after Jefte Ramirez was shot and killed by a a San Bernardino County sheriffs deputy on the railroad tracks in Redlands on Dec. 16, 2024. (OnScene.TV) Jefte Vargas Ramirez, 37, of Redlands, is seen in a photo provided by family. Attorney Dale Galipo and Jefte Ramirezs family held a press conference in Redlands to announce plans to file a $30 million wrongful death lawsuit on April 3, 2025. (KTLA) Attorney Dale Galipo and Jefte Ramirezs family held a press conference in Redlands to announce plans to file a $30 million wrongful death lawsuit on April 3, 2025. (KTLA) An investigation is underway after Jefte Ramirez was shot and killed by a a San Bernardino County sheriffs deputy on the railroad tracks in Redlands on Dec. 16, 2024. (OnScene.TV) Jefte Vargas Ramirez and a relative is seen in a photo provided by his family. But Dale Galipo, the attorney representing Ramirezs family, said the encounter was captured on video by a witness which showed something very different. In the video, following a verbal exchange, Ramirez begins walking towards the deputy with both arms outstretched to the side. He starts walking towards the deputy, Galipo said at a press conference on Thursday. The deputy starts firing. Its almost unbelievable to see. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least nine gunshots are heard as the deputy fires at Ramirez. Galipo claims the deputy continued shooting even as Ramirez turned his back to him. He was transported to the hospital where he later died. As the case remains under investigation, Galipo said that based on footage of the deadly encounter, Ramirezs actions did not warrant lethal force. Theyre either very small rocks, pebble-like, but I could not see the rocks, Galipo said. You cant shoot someone because theyre not obeying your commands or you think theyre being resistive or even assaultive. It has to be immediately life-threatening. Ramirez worked as a mechanic and his brother, Tony Vargas, said on the day he was killed, he was enjoying a day off from work and would often take a morning stroll in the area because he lived nearby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not able to sleep, Vargas said following his brothers death. Its still hard to talk about it. It hurts. Ramirezs family said they plan to file a lawsuit against the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department and are seeking $30 million in damages. They want justice for his death and believe there needs to be accountability for the deputys actions. Southern California man arrested in cold case murder of 15-year-old boy We are demanding justice, the family said in a statement. Justice, not just for us, but so that no other family has to go through this. So that no father has to bury his child. So that no child grows up without a father. So that no mother has to mourn the loss of her child at the hands of those who should be protecting us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why do we continue to have so many shootings? Galipo said. The main reason is theres really no negative consequences that come to the involved officers. In a statement announcing the suit, Galipo said, Its disappointing to see the continued police shootings of unarmed people and people not posing an immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury, but it appears this pattern continues because of the ratification of these unjustified shootings by law enforcement and the lack of accountability by the agencies and the involved officers. Galipo said after filing their claim on Thursday, the sheriffs department has 45 days to say whether theyll accept it or reject it. After that time frame, Galipo said theyll file a lawsuit in federal court alleging violations of federal and state law. Ramirez is survived by his two daughters, his parents and his siblings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deputy involved has not been identified and the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department declined to comment on the active investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. (NewsNation) The family of missing blind solo traveler Carla Valpeoz believes her case can be solved, but they are frustrated by a lack of action from officials. Valpeoz disappeared in 2018 while on a trip to Peru. Her brother, Carlos Valpeoz, says neither the governments of Peru nor the U.S. have done enough to help find his sister. Carla Valpeoz, a blind traveler, disappeared in Peru [She was a] taxpaying American citizen who dedicated her life to service, a true American patriot, he said. The U.S. government should stand by her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following brain surgery in childhood, Carla Valpeoz could only see shadows. That didnt stop her from traveling the globe and using her YouTube to inspire others and show that being blind didnt make her less capable. Carlos Valpeoz said that she always kept in touch with the family while she was traveling, but in Peru, she had some issues with her phone. Still, when she stopped communicating, they knew something was wrong. He told NewsNation the family is frustrated by the lack of action by authorities both in Peru and the U.S. Most cases involve retrieval of cellphone data, Valpeoz said. Six 1/2 years later, and they still dont have the basic data from her phone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats critical because it could pinpoint the last time she was seen. Huisentruit search warrant can be unsealed, judge rules The family knows that Carla Valpeoz went to Machu Picchu, where she befriended a group of travelers. She went with them on a hike to the top of Huayna Picchu, then celebrated afterward with dinner. Surveillance video also showed her leaving a hostel. Frustrated with inaction from authorities, the family traveled to Peru themselves to retrace her steps and interview witnesses, turning up a ticket logbook and surveillance footage in Pisac, Peru. What happened after that is a mystery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michigan couple Paul, Christy Akeo freed from Mexico prison Carlos Valpeoz said Peru hasnt been aggressive in investigating for fear it would harm tourism and claims the family has been the victim of extortion attempts with the Peruvian government asking for money. They believe the government has hidden and deleted sensitive information relating to the case. But Valpeoz said the U.S. government hasnt been much help either. Our family has had to be responsible for a lot of the communication; otherwise, these cases will get forgotten, he said. Im on the phone every two weeks with them. Ideally, the family would like the two governments to communicate directly to push the direction forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the meantime, theyve continued their own work over the years, trying to make up for the lack of official information. Nothing has changed since the info we got in the first week, Valpeoz said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. KANSAS CITY, Mo. Fares will be coming back for Kansas City bus riders. Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) Senior Director of Marketing & Communications Cindy Baker confirmed that with FOX4 on Thursday. The news comes despite guaranteed funding from the city council. Kansas City investors speak on worries as markets plummet The council approved nearly $47 million for the KCATA, allowing transit services to continue through October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, after a meeting with the KCATA board last week, the transit authority said the city councils proposed funding would not be enough to maintain its current level of service. Instead of the KCATA running 29 routes for 21 hours a day, the transit authority is cutting back to 18 hours a day. But it will still run all 29 routes. Theres no word yet on when the fares will start up again, but they could be as much as $2. On Thursday afternoon, amendments were added that called for regional funding sources to help the KCATA. The president of the union thats representing the bus drivers said he thinks this is a good idea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have to have more of a regional transit systemand the funding has to come from somewhere, said Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1287 President Nicholas Miller after the city council vote. But if theyre going out asking for this funding and the other municipalities dont have it, what is it that the city is actually expecting? The Missouri Workers Center, a group that supports low-wage workers in the state, said theyre concerned about what the city will look like without a fully funded transit system. FOX4 asked the groups leader, Terrence Wise, how much he thinks it would cost to fully fund the KCATA. I dont think you can put a price tag on something thats right for the city, Wise said. We know that the prices of eggs, gas, groceries have been on the rise, and we should expect to have a higher budget when it comes to funding our transit services as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Councilwoman Melissa Robinson said the KCATA is requesting state and federal help. The transit authority will also commit to employment services for IRIS workers in the city, if that program ends up getting suspended. The KCATA would not do an on camera interview with FOX4 in time for our deadline. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Dry conditions in South Dakota caused several wildfires at the beginning of March. What's happening? KELOLAND TV reported that the combination of drought and wind in South Dakota created the perfect storm for many wildfires to break out earlier this month. "It's scary for everybody," farmer Ben Klumb told KELOLAND TV. "People build their farms for generations, and it could all change." Why are these dry conditions harmful? This is especially concerning since farmers are currently in the middle of planting season. Their crops and livelihoods are at stake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Just with these windy, dry conditions, it's kind of like a tinderbox just waiting to go up," South Dakota Soybean Association treasurer Brent Greenway told KELOLAND TV. "If there's fires ready to take off, there's just no topsoil moisture there to help slow things down, and that concerns you going into planting season." Extreme weather events and climate change are not interchangeable. As the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration explained, weather is what we experience on a day-to-day basis. Climate is the pattern of weather that occurs in a specific area over a long period of time. Droughts sometimes take place because of low precipitation and water levels. According to the NOAA, however, human activity like inefficient water usage can also contribute to dry conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If dry conditions continue to cause wildfires in South Dakota for the next few decades, they would enact true, devastating climate change. KELOLAND TV also stated that a fire near Rockerville, South Dakota, burned about 39 acres last weekend. Evacuation orders have since been lifted, and residents are safe. Should the government be allowed to restrict how much water we use? Definitely Only during major droughts No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. What's being done about these dry conditions? Fire crews have addressed wildfires caused by dry conditions as they occurred. While we may not be able to prevent all droughts from happening, we can attempt to limit those created by human activity. Being mindful of water usage can help. Having conversations with people around you about your collective water usage can change your community and multiply your impact. 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. FBI Albuquerque allegedly identified a terrorist financing network soliciting donations to the al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas military wing. (Photo illustration by Namthip Muanthongthae / Getty Images) The U.S. government announced last week that two confidential informants and an FBI special agent based in New Mexicos largest city discovered and seized hundreds of thousands of dollars in virtual currency that officials say was meant for Hamas. On March 25, a special agent with the Albuquerque field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation asked a federal court in Washington D.C. for permission to seize the virtual currencies. U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew J. Sharbaugh signed the application. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the agents sworn statement attached to the application, in February, FBI Albuquerque identified a terrorist financing network soliciting donations to the al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas military wing. The U.S. has designated Hamas a terrorist organization. The FBI agent wrote in the warrant application that he believes the funds are traceable to, and involved in, a scheme to solicit donations of virtual currency to Hamas, and to launder those donations on the groups behalf. The warrant and associated documents indicate they were filed in the court under seal, meaning they are not publicly available. Source NM searched online federal court records for the case number associated with the warrant but could not find anything. But the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia attached the records to a March 27 news release in which the government said it disrupted an ongoing terrorist financing scheme by seizing approximately $201,400 worth of virtual currency held in wallets and accounts intended to benefit Hamas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unusual for federal prosecutors to publish an otherwise sealed search warrant before actually charging someone with a crime, two sources with knowledge of the federal criminal legal system who asked to remain anonymous told Source NM. A case usually doesnt get opened until after someone is formally presented with the charges against them in court, the sources said. One of the sources suggested that the reason why the DOJ is publicly talking about the case before any charges is that Ed Martin, President Donald Trumps appointed interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Washington D.C., is trying to make political hay out of an otherwise normal investigation, in an incredibly irregular way. Adam Schiff, a Democratic U.S. senator from California, on Tuesday placed a hold on Martins permanent confirmation as D.C.s top federal prosecutor, alleging Martin had abused his role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia did not return an email seeking comment on the case. The seized funds were traced from fundraising addresses allegedly controlled by Hamas that were used to launder more than $1.5 million in virtual currency since October 2024, the DOJ said. FBI Albuquerque is investigating the case alongside the FBI Counterterrorism Division and Cyber Division, according to the news release. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE While the FBI agents affidavit only reveals some of what the U.S. government knows about the investigation, it appears to show that the agents involvement began when an FBI confidential informant in the U.S. on Feb. 6 alerted them to a post on the instant messenger service Telegram asking supporters to contact an email address allegedly associated with al-Qassam in order to donate. Four days later, the informant sent a message to the email address and received a response a few hours later containing instructions on how to donate, according to the translation included in the warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another informant on Feb. 17 alerted the agent to seven more places to donate virtual currency that the informant allegedly received by emailing al-Qassam. The cryptocurrency was held on two platforms based outside of the United States, Binance and Tether, according to the warrant application. In October 2023, U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and U.S. Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.) wrote a letter asking the DOJ to criminally prosecute Binance and Tether. We urge the Department of Justice to carefully evaluate the extent to which Binance and Tether are providing material support and resources to support terrorism through violations of applicable sanctions laws and the Bank Secrecy Act, Lummis and Hill wrote. To that end, we strongly support swift action by the Department of Justice against Binance and Tether to choke off sources of funding to the terrorists targeting Israel. Tether, at the request of federal law enforcement, on March 12 agreed to freeze about $90,000 worth of virtual currency until the FBI could serve the warrant, according to the application. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agent wrote that Binance took independent action to freeze other related accounts, and provided records to the agent about two accounts owned by Palestinians whom the agent believes are financiers enabling a virtual currency donation network to support Hamas. In announcing the seizures, FBI Albuquerque Special Agent in Charge Raul Bujanda said in the news release that countering terrorism remains the FBIs number one priority. By successfully disrupting access to funds, we weaken their ability to function, Bujanda said. This success demonstrates that financial warfare is a critical component to fight terrorism. We will continue to do everything in our power to protect the American people and pursue justice by depriving terrorist organizations of the resources they need to continue their illicit activity. In an emailed statement, a spokesperson for FBI Albuquerque told Source NM that the investigation is ongoing and declined to answer questions about how the case is connected to New Mexico, and whether anyone has been charged with a crime related to the seized money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI investigates many different cases across all of our 55 field offices, spokesperson Margot Cravens wrote. We pursue cases based on well-defined investigative strategies. As with all of our investigations, we adjust and refine that strategy based on the results of ongoing leads. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX (WBRE/WYOU) The FBI is searching for a man wanted after he allegedly killed his wife in Philadelphia. The search is underway for 34-year-old Miguel Angel Aguilar Ojeda after he allegedly killed his wife on October 27, 2024, in Philadelphia On October 30, an arrest warrant was issued for Ojeda after he was charged with the following; Murder Possessing instruments of crime Abuse of corpse Tampering with evidence Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former borough administrator accused of adding 1,200 of sick time In November, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Ojeda in the United States District Court, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, after he was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. Investigators say Ojeda has ties to Camden, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Mexico. Anyone with information is asked to contact your local FBI office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) The FCC is considering eliminating some of the regulations on local TV stations, like KELO, because they are outdated and no longer necessary. Immigrant rights and protections while at school The head of the FCC says reducing the regulations could help us bring you even higher quality newscasts. You can weigh in on the regulations by clicking on the Delete, Delete, Delete initiative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. It all happened overnight and in a matter of minutes. Ben Zhou, CEO of the cryptocurrency exchange Bybit, made a series of routine transfers from his home computer. A short while later, his company called to inform him that his reserves of Ethereum, the second most-used cryptocurrency after Bitcoin, worth $1.5 billion, had vanished. By then, the ethers had already been transferred to thousands of other peoples digital wallets. Bybit had just suffered the largest theft in history. Five days later, the FBI confirmed what some analysts suspected from the outset: the attack was the work of Lazarus, a hacking group supported by the North Korean government that has become the scourge of the crypto sector. Zhou went out of his way to appear calm on social media immediately after the cyberattack, even sharing the heart rate displayed on his smartwatch to convey that everything was under control. The entrepreneur assured his clients affected by the theft that they would receive 100% of their deposits back. Fearing a panic in the sector, some of Bybits competitors, such as Byget, lent Zhou $100 million in interest-free ether to help repay their deposits, The New York Times reported. But the damage was done. Less than 24 hours later, Bybit customers had withdrawn around $10 billion worth of cryptocurrency, almost half of the platforms total managed volume. The value of Bitcoin, the benchmark cryptocurrency, fell 20% the day after the cyberattack, its worst day since the 2022 bankruptcy of FTX, the exchange run by Sam Bankman-Fried, the most popular crypto broker at the time. Stealing $1.5 billion in one fell swoop isnt easy. Lazarus, the umbrella term for the various hacking teams financed by North Korea, is reasserting itself as a global leader in cybercrime. Before the Bybit hack, the largest cyber theft on record, in 2022, was also their work: $625 million in ether stolen from a website related to the video game Axie Infinity. Cryptocurrencies are a goldmine for Lazarus: in 2024, they stole $1.34 billion worth of crypto in 47 incidents, according to a Chainalysis report. In 2023, they obtained $660 million through 20 separate attacks. The heist of the century A month has passed since the major heist, and forensic reports have revealed many details of the Lazarus operation. All the analysts consulted agree in describing it as a feat within the reach of very few, both due to its meticulous planning and the precision with which it was carried out. The Bybit attack demonstrated an extremely high level of sophistication on the part of Lazarus. They combined social engineering, deep knowledge of DeFi [decentralized finance] infrastructures, and advanced persistence techniques to execute one of the most audacious cyber heists to date, says Herve Lambert, director of global operations at Panda Security. The key to the North Korean hackers success is that they were able to intercept a cold wallet, one of those wallets without an internet connection, considered until now the most secure way of storing cryptocurrencies. Hence, Bybit stored its large reserves of Ethereum in one of them. How did they gain access to these funds? Bybit had to periodically transfer cryptocurrency from the cold wallet to a hot wallet (connected to the internet) to manage daily operations. Thats what Ben Zhou did from his home on February 21. Or rather, thats what he thought he was doing. The Lazarus hackers managed to intercept the transfers and redirect them to several accounts under their control. To achieve this, they attacked a third party: the provider of the wallet used by the exchange, the Safe{Wallet} platform. Lazarus managed to take control of the computer of one of Safe{Wallet}s software developers and, once inside the platforms infrastructure, inserted hidden malicious code into its application. This is what is known in the jargon as a supply chain attack, an attack on a technological partner of the victim. This surgically precise malware was designed to activate only under specific conditions, bypassing normal defenses, Lambert explains. When Zhou initiated routine transfers from the cold wallet, the malicious code executed, manipulating the transactions to send them to the attackers wallets instead of legitimate ones. Immediately after the transaction went through, the hackers covered their tracks: within two minutes, they uploaded new, clean versions of the JavaScript code to the Safe{Wallet} repository on AWS, removing the backdoor they had used. The entire attack happened so quickly and subtly that by the time Bybit detected the anomalous drain of its funds, it was too late: the ethers were controlled by Lazarus. North Korean students use computers at the Pyongyang Sci-Tech Complex in June 2017. Wong Maye-E (AP) Bybit launched a series of rewards for those who manage to block stolen cryptocurrencies, preventing their exchange. This type of program is common, for example, when finding vulnerabilities in software or hardware [bug bounty], but its application as a response to a security incident is, to say the least, curious, says Jose Rosell, CEO of S2Grupo. They havent achieved much this way: five days after the attack, more than $400 million had been moved, indicating an unprecedented level of operational efficiency, according to a report by the specialized consulting firm TRM Labs. The laundering process, as of February 26, 2025, includes transfers through multiple intermediary wallets, conversion into different cryptocurrencies, and the use of decentralized exchanges, and cross-chain bridges to obfuscate the trail. It is precisely the anonymity and rapid liquidity offered by cryptocurrencies, when compared to traditional banking, that makes them such a popular choice for illicit activities. Stealing for the greater glory of the regime Although no one officially recognizes it, many countries finance and support elite hacker groups known as APTs (advanced persistent threats). These are highly structured organizations with top-level professionals, whose capabilities are often on par with those of the secret services of major powers. With one difference: they supposedly operate without a flag. They usually engage in industrial espionage, sabotage, or the acquisition of military or other documents of strategic value. North Koreas approach is different. Its hacking teams are primarily focused on obtaining funds for the regime. And they have found cryptocurrencies to be a significant source of income. The recent Bybit hack ($1.5 billion) and Axie Infinity hacks ($660 million) are good proof of this. The specialized website TRM Labs estimates that North Korean hackers have acquired at least $5 billion in cryptocurrency since 2021 alone. And a report by the United Nations Security Council estimates that the funds provided by these groups account for half of the foreign currency flowing into North Korea. It was Kim Jong Un, grandson of the founder of the dynasty of dictators, who deduced that the regime could make significant profit from cyberspace. According to journalist Anna Fifield in her book The Great Successor (2021), Kim bet on this as soon as he inherited the reins of the country in 2009. Students who show potential [for computing] some as young as 11 years old are sent to special schools and then on to the University of Automation in Pyongyang, where for five years, they are taught how to hack and how to create computer viruses, writes Fifield. The U.S. and U.K. secret services, as well as Microsoft, blame Lazarus for the 2017 release of WannaCry 2.0, the largest ransomware attack in history. This computer virus hijacked some 300,000 computers in 150 countries, including those in the U.K. healthcare system, and demanded a ransom in exchange for their release. Another high-profile case was the 2014 cyberattack against Sony Pictures, which was targeted for making a film that mocked Kim Jong Un. More recently, it emerged that Lazarus was able to place their hackers as employees in hundreds of technology companies to steal sensitive information and money. Our research team has identified new campaigns that demonstrate this groups level of sophistication, says Marc Rivero, Head of Security Research at Kaspersky. One example is Operation DreamJob, also known as DeathNote, in which they used advanced malware to compromise employees of a nuclear company in Brazil. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition CHICAGO (WGN) Families with young children are expressing concerns as federal cuts under the Donald Trump administration start to impact childcare services. Thousands of families are being notified of a potential threat to the federal early childhood program known as Head Start. Earlier this week, Head Start closed their regional office in the Loop, which also served Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin. The move has left many impacted by the program here in Illinois, sitting in the dark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Start Early Illinois, as a Head Start grantee, also supports 12 other critically important early childhood organizations across the city, said Celena Sarillo, Executive Director of Start Early Illinois. We only have dollars to support our work until the end of April. Sarillo said her office was scheduled to meet with their regional partner on Tuesday of this week, but the meeting never happened. So far, five Head Start regions around the United States have closed as a part of layoffs from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), with it remaining unclear who to reach out to for answers as doors close. Currently, we dont have anyone to go to if theres anything they need, Sarillo said. Any critical support or resources as they are running their Head Start program. That can be anything from a fire or something critical that happens in a program. The Latest: Trumps new tariffs lead to the biggest Dow wipeout since 2020 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Head Starts website, they prepare Americas most vulnerable young children to succeed in school and in life beyond school Head Start programs deliver services to children and families in core areas of early learning, health, and family well-being while engaging parents as partners every step of the way. Some Republicans have criticized efforts to increase Head Start funding, while those who operate under the Head Start umbrella like Sarillo argue the program is critical for families struggling to get by. It provides high-quality childhood education. It ensures children with disabilities can get the right support and services, Sarillo said. They can be assessed if they have a learning difference. It provides food. It provides all types of family support. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department hasnt been immune to federal budget cuts, while federal-level layoffs also have left data collection in at least one program at risk. In response to questions, TPCHD media representative Kenny Via told The News Tribune that two local health department programs took the initial hit of funding losses: one tied to COVID-19 response and the other with wildfires. Washington State Department of Health informed us last week that Centers for Disease Control and Prevention eliminated a large portion of state COVID-19 response funding, Via said in an emailed statement. We had been using a portion of these funds to continue some education and vaccination efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He noted, While this will reduce our capacity to support vaccinations in the community, our Disease Prevention and Management Division will continue to lead this work using a combination of our regular funding and ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds from Pierce County. As of late Thursday afternoon, April 3, funding tied to COVID-19 response appeared to be restored through legal action, though Via said the department had yet to receive any updates. The other cut was tied to a $1 million, 3-year grant that began in March 2024 to help build community capacity to protect against wildfires, wildfire smoke, and the health effects associated with both, Via wrote. The Environmental Protection Agency terminated the grant last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We remain committed to this work, even as this loss in funding will make it more difficult, Via wrote. According to the EPAs letter, a copy of which was shared with The News Tribune, the EPA assistance agreement was terminated in its entirety effective immediately on the grounds that the award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities. The objectives of the award are no longer consistent with EPA funding priorities. The funding was among $8.2 million of grants the EPA announced in October 2023 for Washington state for 10 separate environmental justice projects. The EPA at the time said, The selectees will use the funds to ensure disadvantaged communities that have historically suffered from underinvestment have access to clean air and water and climate resilience solutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TPCHDs project was identified as the Community-Led Wildfire Preparedness Initiative in Key Peninsula, East and Southeast Pierce County. The health department announced the launch of the wildfire program in November 2023. The EPA on March 10 announced that its administrator Lee Zeldin with the assistance of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), identified and canceled more than 400 additional grants across nine unnecessary programs totaling $1.7 billion in savings for the American people. Zeldin canceled grants and contracts related to DEI and environmental justice in the first round of spending cuts, it noted. Environmental-justice projects were a priority of the Biden administration, which the Trump administration has worked to end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter dated March 25 to Zeldin, a group of U.S. senators wrote that the terminations which violate a number of court orders escalate your attempts to impound Congressionally appropriated, legally-obligated funds protecting clean air and clean water. ... Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System data collection at risk Missing CDC information was reported earlier this year as agencies scrubbed pages of diversity, equity and inclusion language as per executive orders. Much of those have since been restored, Via told The News Tribune on April 3. He added, the department is still seeing gaps in some federal data. CDC is also changing how it collects data, which will make it difficult to compare future data to what was collected before, he said via email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One such data collection with an unclear future is the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS). PRAMS is a joint project between state health departments and the CDC, where data is collected through surveys on maternal experiences before, during and shortly after pregnancy, used to improve maternal and infant health outcomes. The program was developed in the 1980s to gain insight on health disparities among mothers and infants in high-risk populations, with states compiling information and then maintained on a national level by the CDC. The information collected can help identify groups of women and infants at high risk for health problems, according to Via. It is our only regular source of information on some important health outcomes such as postpartum depression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is valuable national data that we wont be able to replace at the local level, he added. On March 12, Democratic U.S. Rep. Marilyn Strickland, whose district stretches from eastern Tacoma to Olympia, was one of two-dozen D.C. lawmakers who signed on to a letter seeking answers from the CDC as to PRAMS future. The CDCs PRAMS website as of April 3 listed a note that CDCs website is being modified to comply with President Trumps Executive Orders and noted that PRAMS 2023 data is anticipated to be available to sites by March 2025, while PRAMS 2025 birth cohort data collection is anticipated to begin by April 2025. STAT News website reported April 1 that an email from a CDC epidemiologist alerted some states that the entire CDC PRAMS team had received a Reduction in Force notice that day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services the week of March 31 saw 10,000 reported job cuts nationwide across its divisions, including the shutdown of its Region 10 office in Seattle, which serves Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. HHS has said it is working to streamline units and essentially replace the current administrative structure with the Administration for a Healthy America. Bracing for what comes next concerning federal funding TPCHD Director of Public Health Chantell Harmon Reed addressed the cuts at the regular Board of Health session on April 2. On the wildfire grant elimination, she noted that since implementation of the funding, the department had been able to use about 10% of that funding to build relationships and share wildfire information throughout community events, workshops, home risk assessments and social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But, of course, there is so much to do, she added in her comments on April 2 to the board. It is unfortunate that were losing this money, but there is still work that we have to do in that space. Reed said that the health department is continuing to work with entities such as the Pierce Conservation District. We have six Pierce County library workshops scheduled this spring. Those are set to continue, she added. Even though there is a loss of funding, we are realigning and reimagining duties of our staff, specifically in environmental health for the EPA grant, so that we can make sure that there is no disconnect in services, she said. In the meantime, other funding reductions could be on the horizon, Reed warned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Refugee health is also another area that we are concerned about, she told the board on April 2. DOH also is seeing significant changes in their staffing because of their loss of funding. So we are bracing ourselves for the anticipation of whats going to be coming next. Reed said the health department was notified by state DOH last week about the loss of the funds allocated through COVID-19 response. Were trying to make sure that we can continue as much work as possible, she added, including immunization clinics. On April 1, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown announced that the state was co-leading a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over $11 billion in cuts to public health grants for two dozen states, which were funds tied to COVID-19 response. The grants provided support for a wide range of public health needs nationwide, including identifying, tracking, and addressing infectious diseases; immunization access; and modernizing public health infrastructure. Some of the national funding was not set to expire until as late as June 2027. The U.S. governments argument for the grant terminations was that the funding was appropriated through one or more COVID-19 related laws, and that the governments pandemic emergency declaration had officially expired nearly two years ago. Late Thursday afternoon, April 3, the state Attorney Generals office announced that the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island had granted a temporary restraining order, restoring the $11 billion in public health funding to state and local public health agencies across the country, including Washington state. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A federal grand jury this week indicted a man and woman on firearms charges. Read next: Ohio unveils new system for unclaimed funds David Poyssick, 41, faces two counts of possessing a firearm with a misdemeanor conviction for domestic violence while Becky Poyssick, 45, faces a charge of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. Court documents did not say how the pair are related. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David Poyssick has been in custody since a criminal complaint was filed against him March 14 on the gun charge. That charge was filed after Poyssick was arrested March 11 by city police when a search warrant was served at his home. Becky Poyssick is presently not in custody. A summons was issued for her after the indictment was unsealed Wednesday, according to court records. She is accused of buying a gun March 6 at a local gun store and saying the gun was for her when it was really for David Poyssick, according to the indictment. An affidavit accompanying the complaint in the criminal case said two members of the FBI were at an Austintown gun range Feb. 11 when they saw Poyssick sitting at a table with a gun. Poyssick told the agents he got the gun the day before at a Niles sporting goods store and chatted with them about the gun, the affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reports said Poyssick went to a shooting lane and fired several shots at a target. There were two other men with Poyssick also firing at the target, the affidavit said, but the affidavit did not say if those two men had their own guns. When Poyssick and the two men he was with left, one of the agents swept up the cartridges that were left over in Poyssicks shooting lane, the affidavit said. Agents also found a receipt with Poyssicks name on it that showed he paid for ammunition, the affidavit said. Poyssick was convicted on March 3, 2009, of misdemeanor domestic violence in Youngstown Municipal Court, the affidavit said. The affidavit also said Poyssick also tried to purchase a gun April 22, but that purchase was denied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The affidavit does not make clear if the search warrant was served because of the gun investigation or for another reason. Reports from the search warrant do not list a gun as among the items recovered by police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. HYATTSVILLE, Md. (AP) A federal judge orders the US to return a Maryland man mistakenly deported to an El Salvador prison. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) 8 On Your Side continues to push for answers from Pinellas County businessman Leo Govoni after he answered questions on the stand in federal court Friday morning. A federal judge found Govoni liable for $120 million in missing money tied to his now bankrupt St. Petersburg non-profit. It was money that was meant to help disabled people and their families. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now 8 on Your Side The search is heating up for that missing money to see if any of it could be returned to the families who lost everything. Leo Govoni was in court on Friday on the orders of a federal judge as the attorneys representing those families are pressed to know where all that money went. While Govoni avoided Investigative Reporter Brittany Mullers questions outside the courthouse in downtown Tampa, he was forced to offer some answers on the stand. Hes not answering any questions, said Attorney Paul Sisco. Muller said, Sure, but I am going to ask Mr. Govoni: wheres the money? Sisco wasnt wrong. Govoni did not utter a word as 8 On Your Side tried to get answers for the people who trusted him to safeguard their money, only to see it all disappear. Will any of the victims ever recover any of the money? Muller asked Govoni. Victims like Elena Capasso. This is the people that you stole from, kids like this its awful, awful, said Louis Capasso, Elenas dad. Elenas money came from a settlement, which was being managed at Govonis non-profit: The Center for Special Needs Trust Administration. But Elenas father soon realized his daughters money had vanished! I really do want my money back, said Elena. On Friday, for the first time, Govoni himself showed up in Federal Bankruptcy Court going before Judge Roberta Colton. Colton found Govoni liable for more than $120 million in missing money in January. On Friday, the Judge tacked on more than $150,000 to her judgement for associated attorney costs and fees for those working to recover the missing money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those attorneys and Judge Colton have been requesting that Govoni produce documents and records from his dozens of businesses, but they said so far, Govoni has not complied. The judge just said that you will be held in contempt if you dont produce the documents, where are the documents? Muller asked Govoni. While Govoni didnt respond, he did answer some of the questions from the judge and attorneys when he took the stand, while representing himself. Attorney Steven Wirth is the representing Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Trustee who is managing the Centers affairs and assets while working to recover the missing money. While Govoni was on the stand, Wirth questioned him about 50 entities one by one. Govoni said one LLC formerly owned an airplane, one company made Bloody Mary mix, and another performed forest management services in New England. Wirth asked about Govonis ownership, assets, and functions of those entities. But to several questions, including when asked about tax records, he pleaded the fifth to avoid potentially incriminating himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Govoni was kicked out of his Clearwater businesses located at 12707 49th St. N. Clearwater, including Big Storm Brewing. The Judge had previously granted officers to take control of Govonis businesses everything from managing the books to changing the locks on the doors. Govoni gave the Judge a letter stating that the records are inside his business that hes no longer able to enter, but attorneys for those who are missing money have argued previously that Govoni had plenty of time to provide those documents before and was only ordered out of his business after he failed to turn them over. According to a Pinellas Park Police report, Govoni violated court orders when he entered the business on March 26 and attempted to remove personal items even though he has been barred from doing so. The report shows Govoni told officers that he was unaware and had not yet been served the order. As this case plays out in court, Elena is left in limbo. He didnt even care the kids that he was stealing from, said Capasso. Thats what makes it so bad. Its important to note that cameras are not allowed inside the federal courtroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Govoni remains the focus of an FBI investigation, so far, he has not been charged with a crime. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A federal judge will temporarily block President Donald Trumps administration from cutting billions in federal dollars that support COVID-19 initiatives and public health projects throughout the country. U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy, appointed by Trump in 2019 but first nominated by former President Barack Obama, in Rhode Island said Thursday that she plans to grant the court order sought by 23 states and the District of Columbia. They make a case, a strong case, for the fact that they will succeed on the merits, so Im going to grant the temporary restraining order, said McElroy, who plans to issue a written ruling later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York Attorney General Letitia James tweeted about the judges decision immediately after the hearing, saying: Were going to continue our lawsuit and fight to ensure states can provide the medical services Americans need. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie Kane objected to the temporary restraining order in court but she said she was limited in the argument she could make against it, adding that her office was unable to thoroughly review the thousands of documents under the time limitation. The states lawsuit, filed Tuesday, sought to immediately stop the $11 billion in cuts. The money was allocated by Congress during the pandemic and mostly used for COVID-related initiatives, as well as for mental health and substance use efforts. The lawsuit said losing the money would devastate U.S. public health infrastructure, putting states at greater risk for future pandemics and the spread of otherwise preventable disease and cutting off vital public health services. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has defended the decision, saying that the money was being wasted since the pandemic is over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State and local public health departments already have laid off people, including nearly 200 employees at the Minnesota Department of Health. North Carolina says it stands to lose about $230 million, and California officials put their potential losses at $1 billion. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who is also part of the lawsuit, said half a billion dollars in public health grants that support long-term care for the elderly and immunizations for children were at stake in his state. As a result of taking the Administration to court, these dollars will now start flowing again, he wrote on X. The temporary block on chopping health funding is the latest legal setback for the Trump administration, which is facing some 150 lawsuits on issues ranging from immigration to deep financial and job cuts at federal agencies to transgender rights. Federal judges have issued dozens of orders slowing at least for now the presidents ambitious conservative agenda. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW A federal judge granted a temporary restraining order Thursday that stops the Trump administration from pulling back more than $11 billion in public health funding from state and local health departments. Judge Mary McElroy of the federal district court in Rhode Island granted a 14-day restraining order to a group of 23 states and the District of Columbia that filed a lawsuit against the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) earlier this week. The likelihood of success on the merits is extremely strong, McElroy said at the conclusion of the brief hearing, noting that the record is voluminous with allegations of irreparable harm if the funding were to cease. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The states asked for a preliminary injunction and temporary restraining order to stop the cuts from taking effect. The officials claimed the administration acted unlawfully, without any analysis of benefits of the health funding or the dire consequences of termination. The HHS said the funds, totaling $11.4 billion, were primarily used for COVID-19 response including testing, vaccination and hiring community health workers. Since the pandemic has ended, the HHS said the funds would be rescinded. The lawsuit argues the federal government does not have the legal authority to unilaterally rescind funding it already allocated, particularly when states have built essential health programs around the commitments. State and local health department leaders said the money was already in their hands. Even though the grants were initially authorized by COVID relief legislation, they were allowed to be used for non-COVID priorities, including responding to the measles outbreak in Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McElroy, who was appointed by President Trump, suggested scheduling a hearing for the preliminary injunction on April 13 but left it up to the attorneys to come to an agreement. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Slovakia has declared a state of emergency throughout the country following a fatal brown bear attack on a 59-year-old man, who died in the Detva region in the center of the country, a few days ago. Following the incident, the government has approved the culling of up to 350 brown bears, a number very similar to the total bear population in Spain there are about 370 between the Cantabrian coast and the Pyrenees and about a quarter of all bears in the Central European country (about 1,300, according to the BBC). Bear attacks are rare in Spain because the government implements programs to prevent them from becoming accustomed to the presence of humans. We cant live in a country where people are afraid of going to forests, where people become food for bears. The intensity of bear attacks is increasing significantly, and we are in a period when they should be hibernating, Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico said Thursday after a Cabinet meeting, in which the measure was approved. Slovakia will address preventive abatement in areas, as is the case in Romania. While there were some 650 bear encounters in 2020, there were as many as 1,900 last year. The increase is absolutely clear; the figure goes up every year, said Environment Minister Tomas Taraba. Regarding attacks on people, 108 have been recorded in the Central European country over the past 25 years, according to official data. These bear attacks have resulted in human fatalities only twice: last October in Liptovsky Mikulas, in the north of the country, and now in Detva, although there have been injuries and the presence of these animals has kept many communities on edge. Meanwhile, the number of animals slaughtered since 2000 has risen to 604 individuals, with 2024 being a record year: 94 shot and 50 killed as a result of traffic accidents, poisoning, poaching, or intraspecies attacks, according to data from the same ministry. The state plans to kill 350 bears, reducing the brown bear population to fewer than 1,150 individuals, a figure estimated by experts based on data from six years ago. Taraba estimates that a total population of 800 animals is sufficient for the species to be viable. The emergency situation declared by the Slovakian government requires the removal of all bait, while the elimination of the animals can only be carried out by emergency teams, not hunters. Greenpeace Slovakia and other environmental and conservation organizations have harshly criticized the government's decision to prioritize the killing of brown bears, arguing that it ignores scientific evidence and jeopardizes biodiversity conservation. These NGOs maintain that conflicts with these animals often stem from improper waste and food management, and that there are effective, non-lethal methods to prevent incidents. Cylindrical trap for hunting problematic bears, in an image provided by the Brown Bear Foundation. Fundacion Oso Pardo An endangered animal in Spain In Spain, brown bears were critically endangered in the 1980s, with around 60 or 70 individuals remaining in two scattered regions (the Cantabrian coast and the Pyrenees). An ambitious recovery program has increased the population to 370 animals in four decades. The risk now is that some animals will approach towns and become habituated to humans, causing incidents or dangerous situations. To prevent this, the region of Asturias has implemented a program to control what it calls problematic bears, that is, those that approach containers or houses because thats where they can most easily obtain food. When a bear is considered to be engaging in these behaviors, a cylindrical trap filled with food is set up. When the bear enters, it is put to sleep, blood and fur samples are taken to assess its health, and a GPS collar is fitted to help understand its movements. This is where the second phase begins, called conditioned aversion: its movements are tracked, and when it approaches a food source in a village, wildlife rangers are alerted. The moment it begins to eat, non-lethal rubber bullets are fired at it so the animal associates the two sensations and wont do it again. This prevents many encounters between bears and people. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition ST. LOUIS A Black Jack, Missouri, man was convicted in federal court Thursday for committing five armed robberies in Missouri and Illinois in 2023. Prosecutors with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri said Ronald O. Perkins, 29, robbed three gas stations, a convenience store, and a liquor store between Sept. 8 and Nov. 17, 2023. Perkins was armed in each of the robberies and stole cash from each business. He often banged his gun on the counter while demanding money or pointed the firearm at store clerks. He also fired the gun during the first robbery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement STL familys prank leads to lifelong adventure for Larry the lobster Investigators obtained surveillance video from each robbery. They later found clothes worn by the robber at Perkins home and in one of the vehicles he used to commit the robberies. A distinctive scar on Perkins hand matched a scar on the robbers hand. The firearm used in the first robbery was a ballistic match for a gun found in Perkins possession. Police and prosecutors also said Perkins left an electronic trail from his home to each robbery. Jurors found Perkins guilty of four counts of robbery, one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, three counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and one count of transporting a firearm in interstate commerce with intent to commit a felony. Perkins will be sentenced on July 3. He faces at least 31 years in federal prison and upwards of life imprisonment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Former Saint Francis Ministries CEO Robert Smith faces federal charges of wire fraud and money laundering. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA A federal prosecutor says in court filings that the former leader of a Kansas foster care agency should not be allowed to attend his daughters high school graduation in El Salvador because he is a flight risk. Robert Father Bobby Smith, the former Saint Francis Ministries CEO who is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 15 counts of wire fraud, and one count of money laundering, asked the court last month to visit his ex-wife and daughter in June in El Salvador. Court filings also show he has entered into plea negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith was required to surrender his passport as a condition of his pretrial release. Skip Jacobs, an assistant U.S. attorney in Topeka, said Friday in a court filing that the passport condition is not flexible. Given the defendants charges, potential sentencing outcomes, connections and family ties to El Salvador, and severe limitations available to the government to extradite defendant from El Salvador should he flee, the government submits the prohibition of defendant maintaining or possessing a passport cannot be removed without creating significant risk of flight, Jacobs wrote. A federal grand jury indicted Smith in 2022 following an investigation into alleged financial misconduct. Federal authorities have accused Smith and a co-defendant of conspiring to defraud the foster care agency through fraudulent billing of IT services, and accused Smith of fraudulently using company credit cards to pay for personal expenses. He faces up to 20 years in prison for the conspiracy and wire fraud charges, and up to 10 years for the money laundering charge. As CEO of Saint Francis, Smith hired his wife, Angela, as vice president and director of international ministries. In that role, she purchased and developed a 55-acre farm in El Salvador with the stated purpose of producing the moringa fruit as a new revenue stream for Saint Francis. Smith approved more than $2 million in spending to support her efforts, but the farm never turned a profit, according to court filings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An internal investigation following Smiths departure from Saint Francis found that a project manager in El Salvador had asked for and received a credit card so he could use cash advances to bribe government officials. However, the cards were used almost entirely for small purchases of fast food and lodging. Former Saint Francis accountant Jamie Palenski said she could not identify the purpose of Angela Smiths numerous trips to El Salvador, and social media posts identify Angela Smith being on the beach while supposedly on business, Jacobs wrote. Angela Smith has traveled to El Salvador about 20 times in the past three years, Jacobs wrote, apparently spending enough time there to enroll her daughter in a school. Robert Smith, who now lives in Johnson City, Tennessee, asked the court to fly on June 13 into El Salvador. He would attend his daughters high school graduation at Colegio Internacional de San Salvador and would stay at an Airbnb near the apartment where his ex-wife lives with their three other daughters in San Benito. After graduation, the family would travel to the beach community of Los Cobanos. He would re-surrender his passport upon return June 17. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jacobs said a treaty between the U.S. and El Salvador allows the U.S. to request extradition if Robert Smith were arrested under El Salvador laws. However, there is no agreement that would require El Salvadorian law enforcement to aid in his apprehension. In other words, the United States cannot task El Salvador to go and arrest the defendant for the purpose of extradition, Jacobs wrote. As such, were defendant to flee to El Salvador, there is little the United States could do legally to ensure his return to the United States. The risk of flight if defendant is allowed to travel to El Salvador is too great, Jacobs added. A group of labor unions sued the administration Friday in hopes of stopping President Donald Trumps attempt to gut collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal workers. The unions say in their lawsuit that Trump is retaliating against them for pushing back against the White Houses attack on the government workforce. The groups have filed a number of complaints and grievances that have slowed Trumps effort to fire employees and shutter federal agencies. The executive order Trump signed last week would strip away union rights from a huge chunk of the federal workforce, tossing out contracts at a slew of agencies in the name of national security. Trump made clear when he issued the order that he was angry federal unions are standing up to him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Certain Federal unions have declared war on President Trumps agenda, an administration fact sheet stated. Everett Kelley, president of the American Federation of Government Employees, said in a statement Friday that his union is not going anywhere. The AFGE was one of six unions that filed the lawsuit on behalf of nearly a million members they represent. AFGE is not going to be intimidated by a bully who is throwing a temper tantrum because our union is beating them in the court of law and in the court of public opinion, Kelley said. President Donald Trump listens during a Cabinet meeting at the White House in Washington, on Feb. 26, 2025. (Pool via AP) via Associated Press The Trump administration was expected to try to carve certain federal workers out of collective-bargaining law, on the grounds they work primarily in intelligence, investigations or national security work, as the law allows. The proposal was even included in Project 2025, the conservative transition blueprint drawn up by the Heritage Foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the order Trump signed is so sweeping that it would exclude workers who have little, if anything, to do with national security functions, including nurses, biologists, public-land rangers and others. Among the more than a dozen agencies listed are the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Food Safety and Inspection Service. The unions argue in their lawsuit that the exclusions are overly broad and have no basis in reality. They also note that many civilian employees, including at the Department of Defense, have served their country while retaining collective bargaining protections for decades until now. [T]his encourages unions to refrain from voicing political views critical of the Trump administration or publicly support Trump, or else face the elimination of their representation rights and membership, the complaint states. Another labor group, the National Treasury Employees Union, filed a separate lawsuit of its own earlier this week. The union said on Friday that it has asked a federal judge to issue an injunction blocking the White House from moving forward with its plan. Their request calls Trumps order an unlawful attempt to eliminate collective bargaining for some two-thirds of the federal workforce. BEAVER, WV (WVNS) The General Services Administration (GSA) has ordered a lease termination of the Mine Health Safety Administration District Office in Pineville, National Council of Field Labor Locals (NCFLL) Vice-President Cary Clarkson confirmed on Thursday, April 3, 2025. Clarkson spoke with 59News days before the 15th anniversary of the deadly Upper Big Branch Mine explosion, which killed 29 West Virginia miners on April 5, 2010. Clarkson said the Wyoming County office was established in response to the UBB explosion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In rural West Virginia, district offices allow inspectors and safety experts to reach mines more quickly and to spend less time travelling and more time inspecting and enforcing safety measures, said Clarkson. He said that the office lease is one of around 1,000 nationwide which the federal GSA, an agency which manages leases for federal agencies, has ordered terminated during the Trump Administration and that many workers in the affected offices had not yet been notified if they will lose their jobs or be relocated. Beckley holds annual remembrance ceremony for Upper Big Branch Mine explosion He said the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Elon Musk has cut about 120 MSHA workers, who are responsible for regulations that keep miners safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump said DOGE cuts are necessary to stop government waste, but Clarkson said DOGE workers did not contact MSHA officials to learn about workers roles and responsibilities prior to ordering cuts, leaving the agencies at a severe disadvantage to meet their missions. Clarkson said cuts to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) also affects miners in the Mountain State, since NIOSH regulates worker safety. WV leaders remember the anniversary of the UBB disaster In addition, Clarkson said, a large number of senior MSHA workers with expertise and a wide base of knowledge and experience opted to quit abruptly under the federal Fork in the Road program, which allows federal workers to voluntarily leave the workplace rather than wait on cuts to the federal workforce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the departure of a large number of experienced safety workers had a detrimental effect on the affected agencies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS. The U.S. attorneys office officially has moved to drop the criminal case against high-profile government mole Daniel Solis, the former alderman who played key roles in federal prosecutions that brought down two of Chicagos Democratic kingpins, ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan and ex-Ald. Edward Burke. In a long-anticipated move, federal prosecutors on Friday filed a motion to dismiss a one-count criminal information filed April 8, 2022, that charged Solis corruptly solicited, accepted and agreed to accept campaign contributions in exchange for his actions as a longtime 25th Ward alderman and zoning chair of the City Council. But federal prosecutors said Solis obligation to cooperate remains ongoing. The dismissal is part of a three-year deferred prosecution agreement in which Solis cooperated with the government in exchange for dropping the charge against him. Amarjeet Bhachu, then the lead prosecutor in the case, said at the time the deal was revealed that Solis personally made hundreds of recordings and hailed his cooperation as perhaps singular even in Chicagos long, sordid history of political corruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Solis now will no longer have a felony case hanging over him, and he will be able to keep raking in his six-figure city pension. The former aldermans favorable deal has long been viewed as too lenient by many in the political world, including then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot, a former federal prosecutor who said when she first heard of the agreement that she was deeply offended. Solis first took the stand in the 2023 Burke corruption trial as a defense witness. Burkes team attempted to attack Solis credibility once recordings he made for the government were used extensively. Jurors could hear Burke when he used an expletive in a private meeting with Solis and could see him smile as he spoke about Jews and their business practices while allegedly plotting how to leverage business for his law firm from the Old Post Offices main developer. Burke blurted out on one tape that the cash register has not rung yet, and he most notably asked Solis about getting tax work with the classic political line, Have we landed the, uh, the tuna? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once prosecutors determined Solis was battle tested in the Burke trial, they decided to put Solis on the witness stand as part of the main case against Madigan and then defended Solis when Madigans attorneys raked him over the coals in cross-examination in December. The Madigan team managed to reveal sensational derogatory details about Solis, including that he had taken a suitcase of cash from a Chinese businessman in Shanghai and received hundreds of thousands of dollars in payments from his sister that he never declared as income on his taxes. You cannot trust Danny Solis, Madigan attorney Dan Collins told the jury in closing arguments, seeking to undermine Solis as a witness. Cannot trust him. Hes got his own agenda, and hes as sly as a fox. Bhachu countered simply that some of the defense claims about Solis were overwrought and that Solis discussions with Madigan were caught on tape, marginalizing the importance of the attacks on Solis credibility. Burke was found guilty of 13 corruption counts alleging a variety of old-style shakedowns. He was sentenced to two years in federal prison and fined $2 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madigan was found guilty of 10 of 23 counts, including bribery conspiracy, in February. Madigan allegedly squeezed ComEd to pay several of his political cronies through sham, do-nothing contracts while the utility wooed him to pass its multiyear legislative agenda and agreed to seek a state appointment for Solis in exchange for help in securing business for the former speakers law firm. Madigan, who turns 83 this month, faces a wide range of potential punishments, from 20 years to house arrest. Prosecutors also seek as much as $3.1 million in a forfeiture hearing. Madigans team has sought to reverse the verdict and asked for a new trial. Solis quietly signed his walk-free deal the day after Christmas 2018 and prosecutors kept it secret for years. Despite dropping the charge against Solis, however, the U.S. attorneys office said in its motion Friday that Solis is still obligated to cooperate until all investigations arising from or requiring Mr.Solis cooperation are final and that his cooperation is complete. RLong@chicagotribune.com jmeisner@chicagotribune.com In the past few months, researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have received more than a dozen patents, including for an experimental probiotic weight-loss therapy, a more durable and flexible solar cell and a new method of detecting and treating pancreatic cancer. But Pitt doesn't have the ability or the desire, for that matter to spend the billions of dollars it'd take to turn these good ideas into real world products. Instead, Pitt and other research universities across the Commonwealth typically license these patents to startups and small businesses. Those firms then take the initial breakthroughs and invest enormous sums in further research and development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, these firms face a growing threat from foreign countries, which are increasingly invalidating or ignoring American patents and letting favored local companies steal the technology with impunity. And over the past few years, the federal agency tasked with calling out such abuse has much like Punxsutawney Phil been scared of its own shadow, refusing to speak up for fear of offending trading partners. It's time for Pennsylvania's congressional delegation to hold this agency accountable and force it to hold foreign intellectual property thieves accountable in turn. Pennsylvania: The Cathedral of Learning is a 42-story, Gothic revival-style skyscraper on the University of Pittsburgh campus. At 535 feet tall, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Where is the U.S. Trade Representative? For nearly 40 years, Congress has required the Office of the United States Trade Representative to issue an annual report detailing how effective our trading partners are at preventing the theft of American intellectual property. For decades, the USTR wasn't shy about naming and shaming violators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But starting in 2021, that annual document known as the Special 301 Report became noticeably less forceful in its defense of American firms' IP rights. It's hard to overstate the importance of strong, predictable IP protections to Pennsylvania's prosperity. From advanced manufacturing to energy, biotech, and medical technology, most of our state's top industries wouldn't exist without reliable patents. Pennsylvania isn't alone in this respect, of course. Nationally, IP-intensive industries support over 62 million jobs and generate more than 40% of national GDP. Simply put, it's IP rights that make it worthwhile for inventors to take risks on new ideas and to do the hard work of translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world products. But would-be copycats abroad have no respect for property rights. By one estimate, IP violations now cost the U.S. economy as much as $600 billion annually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One might expect that such widespread theft would provoke a harsh response from our trade officials. And yet in recent years, the USTR has grown less assertive in defending American IP. The Special 301 Report clearly illustrates this trend. Take the issue of compulsory licensing. Under this practice, foreign governments give permission to domestic companies to violate U.S. patents with impunity. Previous Special 301 Reports have been highly critical of compulsory licensing by countries including India, Ecuador, and Indonesia. But beginning in 2021, the Special 301 Report shied away from criticizing compulsory licensing -- and in some cases, even condoned the practice. In the wake of this recent shift, many of our trading partners have shown a new willingness to employ compulsory licenses improperly. For instance, in 2023, the European Commission began work on a new system for granting these licenses. The following year, Colombia issued its first-ever compulsory license on a state-of-the-art HIV drug. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opinion: Judicial independence is under threat. It's essential to our republic's survival Bad news for Pennsylvania biotech The U.S. Trade Representative's recent failures are especially bad news for Pennsylvania's biotech industry. The life sciences sector is one of the Commonwealth's most important, responsible for more than $61 billion in annual economic activity and directly employing more than 100,000 workers. Between 2016 and 2020, Pennsylvania bioscience researchers qualified for an impressive 20,564 patents placing us in the top five of all states. By diluting both the substance and the rhetoric of these reports, the U.S. Trade Representative effectively signaled to American entrepreneurs and inventors that the federal government wouldn't try to stop foreign countries from stealing the fruits of their labor. That message needs to change in the next report, which is expected sometime this spring. Pennsylvania's representatives in Congress should make this a priority in their constitutional oversight responsibilities. The next Special 301 Report must take a strong stand against compulsory licensing as well as other unfair practices such as restrictive patenting requirements and price controls. A robust account will be crucial for fulfilling the White House's new trade policy, which aims to reinvigorate U.S. leadership in promoting a strong global IP network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Left unchallenged, IP violations will undermine the spirit of experimentation, risk-taking, and ingenuity that has powered Pennsylvania's economy since Ben Franklin. Former Democratic Congressman Ron Klink served four consecutive terms representing Pennsylvania's 4th Congressional District. This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Patent thieves threaten Pennsylvania IP and innovation | Opinion TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) A Florida familys home was flooded during Hurricane Helene so they salvaged what they could and placed belongings in a storage facility while they repaired their home. Last week, Tampa resident Laura Gattis went to the unit at a local Public Storage to find it cleared out, and the front desk informed her everything had been auctioned off that morning. She said she was never notified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I pulled up to the unit, the door was wide open and there was nothing in there, except for three boxes, Gattis said. It just had some albums and pictures in there and I just lost my mind. Tom Cruise speaks on death of Val Kilmer: I cant tell you how much I admire his work She said she pleaded with the storage facility worker. She said, Oh we havent received your rent payment. Im like no, its been on autopay, Gattis said. Gattis said she was told the autopay stopped working, and two payments were missed and that it was the customers responsibility to know that. We didnt receive any letters, Gattis said. We dont have any email records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not concerned about the pots and pans. Im concerned about the things we just cant replace, she said. Just things of my children, letters and just milestones along the way, awards. Things that are the threads of our lives. Things that kind of shape who we are. Consumer Investigator Shannon Behnken went to the public storage office to find out what happened and eventually spoke with a representative by phone who said email notification was sent. Florida law requires storage facilities to notify renters before an auction but states an email is sufficient and a letter must be sent only if the email didnt go through. Trump approval slips to lowest point in second term: Survey Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The storage facility insists they sent emails, and those emails werent bounced back. Gattis said she asked for proof of those emails and has not received it yet. She added that the facility previously sent a letter about a rate change, so she questioned why something this serious did not warrant a letter. Meanwhile, after questions from Behnken, Gattis said she received a call from a representative and told they reached out to the winning bidder and explained the situation and passed along Gattis phone number. Gattis says she hopes that person will call her. She says shes willing to pay to buy back her personal items. I dont even care about the expensive items, she said. They can sell those. I just want the personal belongings with sentimental value. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) A South Tampa familys home was flooded during Hurricane Helene so they salvaged what they could and placed belongings in a storage facility while they repaired their home. Last week, Laura Gattis went to the unit at Public Storage on South Dale Mabry Highway to find it cleared out, and the front desk informed her everything had been auctioned off that morning. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now 8 on Your Side She said she was never notified. When I pulled up to the unit, the door was wide open and there was nothing in there, except for three boxes, Gattis said. It just had some albums and pictures in there, and I just lost my mind. I jumped on its back: Tampa woman fights off alligator to save her dog She said she pleaded with the storage facility worker. She said, Oh we havent received your rent payment. Im like no, its been on autopay, Gattis said. Gattis said she was told the autopay stopped working, and two payments were missed, and it was the customers responsibility to know that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didnt receive any letters, Gattis said. We dont have any email records. Im not concerned about the pots and pans, Im concerned about the things we just cant replace, she said. Just things of my children, letters and just milestones along the way, awards. Things that are the threads of our lives, things that kind of shape who we are. Consumer Investigator Shannon Behnken went to the public storage office to find out what happened and eventually spoke with a representative by phone who said email notification was sent. Florida law requires storage facilities to notify renters before an auction but states an email is sufficient and a letter must be sent only if the email didnt go through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The storage facility insists they sent emails, and those emails werent bounced back. Gattis said she asked for proof of those emails and has not received it yet. She added that the facility previously sent a letter about a rate change, so she questioned why something this serious did not warrant a letter. Meanwhile, after questions from Better Call Behnken, Gattis said she received a call from a representative and told they reached out to the winning bidder and explained the situation and passed along Gattis phone number. Gattis says she hopes that person will call her, and she is willing to pay to buy back her personal items. I dont even care about the expensive items, she said. They can sell those. I just want the personal belongings with sentimental value. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Norwich Personnel from multiple law enforcement agencies swarmed an area of Boswell Avenue Thursday morning, firing flash bang grenades before arresting a man wanted on firearms charges, police said. Police arrested Tremaine Dowdell of Norwich, a man with a criminal history that most recently includes a federal conviction in connection with an assault and shooting in New London in 2019, records show. Norwich police Lt. Kyle Besse said no injuries were reported in Thursdays operation and no shots were fired. Boswell Avenue was temporarily closed during the operation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besse said New London police and a federal agency both held active warrants for Dowdells arrest. New London police did not respond to a request for information. In 2021, Dowdell was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release for his role in a Sept. 14, 2019 shooting at the H&T Mart on Ocean Avenue in New London. Dowdell was among four men who attacked a man outside the store and fired a shot toward the victim. During his arrest, police said he was found carrying a gun and 33 grams of crack cocaine. At the time, Dowdell was also a suspect in a separate shooting and robbery on Lake Street in Norwich the night after the New London shooting. The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency was given a lie detector test by the Department of Homeland Security to determine if he leaked information about a recent private meeting concerning FEMA, two former senior FEMA officials told POLITICOs E&E News. The test was given to FEMA acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton after he met March 25 with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski, an adviser to President Donald Trump, those people said. The test was given within two days of the meeting and cleared Hamilton. DHS acknowledged the test in an email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Under Secretary Noems leadership, DHS is unapologetic about its efforts to root out leakers that undermine national security. We are agnostic about your standing, tenure, political appointment or status as a career civil servant we will track down leakers and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law," Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin wrote. At the March 25 meeting in DHS headquarters in Washington, Noem discussed dramatically shrinking FEMA and shifting disaster recovery efforts from the agency to states. Noem called the meeting one day after saying at a televised Cabinet meeting, Were going to eliminate FEMA. E&E News and CNN disclosed the meeting March 26, and other media outlets followed their reporting. Although Hamilton is in charge of the nations leading disaster agency, he appears to have little control over decisions affecting FEMA, including whether to shrink or abolish the agency. Hamilton has expressed frustration to FEMA colleagues, said multiple people, granted anonymity to discuss private conversations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Noems statement about eliminating FEMA blindsided agency officials. One FEMA official said: We heard about it on TV like everyone else. Three days before Noem announced that FEMA would be eliminated, Hamilton told hundreds of state and local emergency managers at a conference in Washington about his plans for the agency. When Trump created an advisory council to review FEMA and suggest changes, he put Noem and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in charge. A former Navy SEAL who worked in nonsupervisory positions at the departments of Homeland Security and State from 2015 to 2023, Hamilton has no background in emergency management. Every FEMA chief since 2009 previously ran a state emergency management agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has not appointed a FEMA administrator. Days after taking office, he named Hamilton FEMAs assistant administrator in charge of the agencys Office of Response and Recovery. Under FEMAs rules, the assistant administrator becomes the agencys acting administrator if there is no official agency administrator or deputy administrator. Bonobos combine simple vocalizations to form complex compositions. In the image, Oliva, a mother from the Kokolopori Bonobo Reserve (Dem. Republic of the Congo), calls to a member of her group. Although their respective lineages diverged millions of years ago, bonobos and humans share 98.7% of their genome (the same as chimpanzees). Bonobos which are endangered, with fewer than 20,000 remaining in the protected forests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo are known for their remarkable ability to communicate, even with humans. Now, research published in Science shows that they combine their vocalizations in a way that mirrors how humans put words together to form sentences, enabling them to communicate more complex messages. This ability was once thought to be unique to humans. All human languages adhere to a principle that linguists call compositionality. Postulated in the 19th century by the German mathematician and philosopher Gottlob Frege, its simplest version resembles a mathematical formula: the meaning of a combination is the sum of the meanings of its parts. To explain compositionality, the authors of the study provide a very simple example: the word biology, which is made up of two equally significant morphemes, bio (life) and logy (science). Francisco J. Salguero, professor of general linguistics at the University of Seville in Spain, gives a more complete explanation: What [this principle] says is that the meaning of a complex linguistic expression is a function of the meanings of the simple expressions that comprise it, and of the rules used to combine those simple expressions to construct the complex one. This principle is adhered to all human languages that have been studied. We wanted to see if bonobos also have this ability, says Melissa Berthet, lead author of the Science paper, who studies animal communication at the Department of Evolutionary Anthropology at the University of Zurich in Switzerland. To do so, the researchers first needed to understand the meaning of bonobos individual vocalizations. Berthet spent months with three groups at the Kokolopori Bonobo Reserve, one of the last sanctuaries for these primates. There, I followed the bonobos for 12 to 15 hours a day, observing their behavior and vocalizations, says the primatologist. The reserve has three communities of bonobos that are used to humans, meaning scientists can study them without interfering with their behavior. As I followed them, I used a microphone to record their vocalizations and systematically document the context in which each vocalization occurred, Berthet explains. For each one, she consulted a list of more than 300 parameters to comprehensively describe the context. For example, I noted whether there was a neighboring group nearby, whether food was present, whether the caller was eating, resting, or grooming, and what happened immediately after the vocalization By analyzing correlations between a calls output and context, she was able to identify patterns. If a particular vocalization was always followed by the entire group moving, it probably indicates that this call means lets travel, she explains. Using this approach, they were able to uncover the meaning of several thousand vocalizations. Now the researchers had to determine if the bonobos combined the vocalizations and if the combinations had their own meaning. Specifically, we tested several criteria of compositionality, examining whether the combination of two vocalizations produced one with a meaning that could be understood from the meanings of the individual calls, explains the primatologist. In previous work, the researchers had identified up to 11 types of individual vocalizations (grunts, low or high-pitched hooting, something resembling a whistle, screams, etc.). In this study, they found and analyzed 38 combinations of two of these individual calls. (They also recorded more complex ones with three, four, or more elements, which they will describe in future research.) After analyzing the combinations, the scientists verified that they complied with the simple version of the principle of compositionality. But there is a more complex dimension to this principle. In the simple version, there is a sum of meanings, as in the case of the word biology. But there is also nontrivial compositionality where, as Salguera, the linguistic professor, explains: One of the elements modifies the other, it completes the other. He offers an example that ties into another dimension of language: discrete infinity, where a finite set of units (morphemes or words) can generate an infinite number of combinations. Once I have an expression like I want water, I can keep building: I want cold water, I want cold water in a glass, I want cold water in a clear glass, I want cold water in a clean, clear glass... Bonobos, too, would seem to meet this criterion. Melissa Berthet, lead author of the research, spent months recording three groups of bonobos in the Kokolopori Bonobo Reserve in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. M. Berthet We ruled out uncommon calls and combinations, so we conducted our study with seven types of calls and 19 combinations. Among them, four were compositional, one trivial, and three nontrivial, Berthet writes in an email. This may seem like a small number (although combinations of more than two vocalizations remain to be studied), but this is the first time that a species other than humans has fully complied with the principle of compositionality. For instance, the combination of a howl, which, depending on the context, signals a call for union, paired with a high-pitched hoot, which typically means pay attention to me, results in a call to coordinate and move. Another example is the combination of whistles and peeps, which frequently occur in contexts of social intimacy, such as during copulation. For Professor Salguero, who was not involved in the study, if this is truly present in bonobos, even at this very basic level of two meaningful signals, where one depends on the other, it would explain how it is possible that, after such a long evolutionary period leading to our species, sign systems have been developing this characteristic and becoming increasingly complex. Professor Simon W. Townsend, an animal communication expert from the University of Zurich, is a senior author of the Science study. Regarding its implications beyond bonobos, he says: The fact that we find evidence of compositionality in humans, chimpanzees, and now bonobos suggests that our last common ancestor, who lived around seven million years ago, also had basic compositional skills, and therefore this core feature of language began to evolve long before language itself emerged. In just two months, the most prestigious science journals have published studies on whales that follow essential laws of human language, and on how the brain processes of budgerigars when vocalizing are strikingly similar to those of humans. Ivan G. Torre, a researcher who trained in animal communication systems and now works for Oracle developing communication systems for machines, recalls that at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries, when modern linguistic theories were born, they were shaped by an anthropocentric bias, reserving language exclusively for humans. But there is growing data that contradicts this view. For Torre, the key lies in the need for communication, regardless of the form or species. He recalls a study he co-authored, published in 2020, which focused on linguistic laws. The study found that in interactions between plants and insects, the system obeyed Zipfs law, which posits that the most common elements (words in the case of human communication) tend to be shorter than the less common ones. In this case, they observed that the most common molecular chains in plant-animal interactions are also those formed by fewer atoms. Ramon Ferrer i Cancho, director of the Quantitative, Mathematical, and Computational Linguistics Laboratory at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, compares the evolution of language to the history of tool use, which was once considered uniquely human. Later, we learned that chimpanzees used tools, that dolphins hunted worms under the sand with a stick... We now know the same thing about language, that its not exclusive to humans, says Ferrer i Cancho, one of the leading experts in human linguistics and animal communication. Regarding the question of compositionality, he recalls a classic study in ethology published at the beginning of the century: the calls of white-nosed monkeys. These monkeys produce two distinct alert calls: pyows warn of a leopard, and hacks signal danger from the sky in the form of an eagle. The researchers found that the monkeys also produce a third call, pyow-hack, and observed that it triggers group movement, he recalls. The best is yet to come. Barthet recorded over 3,600 vocalizations across 400 hours of observation, many of which consist of more than two vocalizations. We will have to wait and see what the bonobos are communicating in their combinations of three, four, five, or more sounds that, until now, have seemed like mere howls. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A teen was arrested Thursday night after a shooting at a Vancouver Plaza, authorities said. According to Vancouver police, officers responded to a shooting report in the Vancouver Plaza parking lot where a carnival was being held. Instagram account of reckless blue pickup driver strikes fear in Portland online community Officers said they learned a group of youths had been involved in a fight, and one fired a gun, shooting someone else in the stomach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim was taken to a nearby hospital by a witness, and police said that the victim suffered a non-life-threatening injury. A containment area was set up, but police said they couldnt locate the suspect, who by that point had already been identified. Detectives later said they found out the suspect was at home, and they were able to take him into custody. The 16-year-old was booked into the Juvenile Detention Center and faces charges including first-degree assault with a firearm and injury and second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Miss Indigenous stands near community activists holding a poster with the names of Native American people lost to violence. The position is an Arizona State University student-led effort to bring awareness and representation to the school and elsewhere. Photo by Gloria Gomez | Arizona Mirror/University of Arizona For years, Indigenous families have shared their experiences of reporting a missing loved one, highlighting how it is often met with a lack of response or urgency from the entities meant to assist them. We do know that there is a huge issue, Capt. Paul Etnire, tribal liaison for the Arizona Department of Public Safety, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Etnire is Hopi and grew up on the Hopi Nation in northern Arizona. Since 2019, he has worked in ad hoc committees, task forces and federal committees focused on addressing the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples. It was very heartbreaking hearing testimonies, he said of the state and federal hearings held to allow MMIP victims to share their experiences. The blame, he said, belongs across the board: law enforcement, prosecutors, social services, tribal governments, non-tribal communities and Indian Country. The whole system failed, Etnire said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was just heartbreaking that we failed in every single way for the victims and for the victims families, he added. Finding ways to address and develop solutions for the MMIP crisis within Indian Country has been a priority for Indigenous women, leaders, advocates and communities for years. Part of that work included advocating for the creation of a multijurisdictional missing persons alert system something that is finally about to become a reality as states across the country, including Arizona, work to implement the Federal Communications Commissions new Missing and Endangered Person alert code. In March, Gov. Katie Hobbs met with several key stakeholders, including the Arizona Department of Public Safety and representatives from tribal nations, to develop a plan for implementing the new alert code by summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know that so many families have been affected by this crisis and have fought for years, Hobbs told the Arizona Mirror, adding that she hopes that, with the implementation of the MEP alert, these families will finally feel a sense of justice. Hobbs said that when an Indigenous person goes missing, a lot of times their case does not rise to the level of getting an Amber, Silver or Blue alert, and the goal of the MEP alert is to fill in that gap. As governor, I see my role as elevating those voices and making sure were taking action on the issues that matter most to communities across the state, Hobbs said. And this is just one example of that. The governor said that implementing the FCCs new MEP alert in Arizona was prioritized based on the recommendation from the MMIP task force, and seeing it come to fruition is great and validates the task forces work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its important to keep the work going, she said. The MEP alert code will be used for missing and endangered persons who do not meet the Amber and Silver Alert criteria, according to the FCC, enabling a more rapid and coordinated response to these incidents. The FCC adopted the new alert code in 2024, stating that it will be especially beneficial to tribal communities, where Indigenous peoples face a disproportionate risk of going missing, experiencing violence and murder. The whole system failed. Capt. Paul Etnire, Arizona Department of Public Safety More than 10,600 Indigenous people were reported missing in the U.S. in 2023, roughly 3,300 of whom were 18 or older, according to the FBI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System reported that more than 23,700 missing persons cases were in the database at the end of 2023, and 255 of those were for Indigenous people. In 2021, Arizona was ranked as the state with the third-largest number of unresolved missing Indigenous people cases in the country, according to NamUs. There are currently 91 missing Indigenous people cases in the NamUs database for Arizona. A study from the Urban Indian Health Institute found that Arizona also has the third-largest number of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in the country. That study reported 506 known cases in 71 urban areas across the country, 54 of which were in Arizona, including 31 in Tucson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is still no single database that provides accurate numbers or data related to missing and murdered Indigenous peoples across the country. With no centralized database among the thousands of federal, state and tribal entities, the information available is limited. When looking at the numbers, its important to note that Indigenous people make up only about 6% of the population in Arizona. The state has only three major metropolitan areas, all of which have large Indigenous populations, and each of the 22 tribal nations in Arizona has a large number of people living on their tribal lands. In Arizona, the recommendation for a missing endangered persons alert was first made in 2022 by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls ad hoc committee and has continued as a recommendation by the task force. Jason Chavez, who leads Hobbs Office on Tribal Relations, said there has been positive feedback from tribal leaders and tribal law enforcement regarding the implementation of the MEP alert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chavez said that tribal leaders and communities have long called for this type of alert, and the MMIP task force has advocated for it. Under the governors leadership, were finally ready to implement, he said. Increasing public awareness about MMIP is a challenge, Chavez said, but he believes that once this alert goes live, it will help shed some light on the ongoing crisis. This is one step in the right direction, he added. According to the FCC, the MEP alert is part of the nations Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alert System. It will be part of a set of codes utilized by tribal, state and local law enforcement agencies with access to the system, delivering a critical alert message to the public through television, radio and wireless phones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Arizona Department of Public Safety will utilize the IPAWS alerting system for MEP alerts. This system can send alerts to specific locations, as narrow as the cross streets where a person went missing or as broad as the state. Once the alert is set up in the system and activated, it will immediately be pushed out to the public. The language in the MEP alert will closely resemble that of Amber and Silver Alerts. Capt. Thomas Neve, with the Arizona Department of Public Safety Emergency Management District, oversees the operations of Arizonas alert system. Neve has worked with the alert program for over a decade. He said the department has offered a Missing and Endangered Persons Advisory, but never an alert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neve said that DPS issues about 150 emergency alerts annually. In 2024, they dispatched 131 Silver Alerts, but no Amber Alerts and 16 missing endangered person advisories. He said the MEP alert now allows them to send out an alert through TV broadcasts, radio and cellphones in real time when a person goes missing. Its a little bit of extra horsepower, he said, adding that it sends the messages out all at once, which ensures consistency in the messaging. The U.S. Department of Justice will release guidelines on pushing out MEP alerts, but they have not been released yet. Neve said they are preparing to fully establish the alert for Arizona so that they are ready when the guidelines are released. We need a collective effort to bring our relatives home. Navajo Nation Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty In general, Neva said the agencys first step is to verify that the report does not fall into any of the other alert categories and ensure that the reporting agency has identified that the missing person has truly gone missing. For instance, if the missing person is a minor, Neve said it needs to be verified that it is not a runaway or part of a custody issue where the biological parent may have taken the child, and that there isnt any danger to the child. Sometimes, people are reported missing because they didnt come home, but that doesnt mean they didnt go to another residence, he said, which is why there are a lot of things that need to be done by the local agency before an alert is considered. Neve said that agencies across the state have the potential to find that person without having to issue an alert, which is why part of the process of being eligible for an MEP alert is that the reporting agency needs to have exhausted all their available resources first. We recognize that some agencies are much larger than others that have better capability of doing that, but every agency has the basic capability of at least entering that person as a missing person, he said. Once that local agency has exhausted those resources and they otherwise meet the criteria, Neve said the final step would be an MEP alert. The local agency would request an MEP alert from the Arizona Department of Safety. Once their criteria are approved, Neve said they evaluate the request and determine whether it qualifies. Were the gatekeepers, he said. We would facilitate that activation on behalf of that agency, making the request. Neve said it is important to have a clear guideline for what constitutes an MEP alert because there is potential for overloading the public with alerts that it desensitizes the general public to the point that they ignore the alerts. There are several thousand missing person cases a year in Arizona, Neve said, and having an alert does not guarantee success in missing person cases. However, Neve said having an MEP alert is a big step because it solicits the publics help finding these missing people and bridges the gap in other alerts. All Arizona tribes can make an MEP alert request, and Neve said they would work closely with any tribal agencies. It doesnt matter if the tribal person went missing on or off the reservation; we can do an activation for that person, he said. Etnire said that the MEP alert system is not the tool that will end the crisis of MMIP, and it should not be viewed as such. This is not the tool that will end this, he said. Etnire said implementing the MEP has been a long time coming and the alert technology is another tool they can capitalize on. This is not the thing thats gonna solve the issue of MMIP within this country (or) within the state, he said, but it is a tool that law enforcement can use to hopefully fill in some of those gaps with the Amber Alert Program and the Silver Alert Program. Etnire said that for a tool to be effective, it has to be used. Its not just incumbent upon local law enforcement to utilize, he added. We have to work together as a whole. Navajo Nation Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty said she hopes that as Arizona works through implementing the MEP alert, there will be a clear idea of how the multiple agencies can work together to push the alerts. We need a collective effort to bring our relatives home, Crotty said, noting that the first 24 hours are vital for missing people. Its another layer of collaboration and data because of the different jurisdictional issues that we chronically have, she added, noting how the Navajo Nation spreads across three states and the tribe has a large population living on and off the reservation. She said having an MEP alert available is crucial for tribal communities because it enables them to notify more people and potentially increases the number of individuals searching for the missing person, which hopefully decreases the trauma for the family. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE I have had many Republican friends and colleagues over the years. However, since 2024 I have asked some of them a key question. When was America Great? I wanted to understand when, and where, President Donald Trump wanted to take the country. None of them seemed to know. At first I thought it was in the 1950s, after World War II, when many white women were content with taking care of the home instead of making a career in the workplace. Maybe it was the early 1900s when women didn't have the right to vote. Whatever the year; Trump wanted AfricanAmericans back in subservient positions and my Latino brothers back in the fields or on the other side of the border. Other immigrants, except Europeans, weren't welcomed. I also remember when President Barack Obama got under his skin and when he was upset that Obamas Affordable Healthcare Act was so popular. I remember how he kept pushing to Repeal and Replace," even though he never had anything to replace it with. Trump resented Obama and later President Joe Bidens successful strategy to bring the nation's unemployment rate down to 4%. Trump always bragged that he had the lowest unemployment rate in history, but he only moved it 1%. What a liar. The tragedy is that most Republicans believed the lies. The majority still do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The truth is, the only significant policy out of Trumps first presidency was the tax cut for corporations and the rich. I guess one could include his mismanagement of COVID-19. Remember, he wanted us to drink bleach. Then when the vaccine came out, the Republicans said not to take it. The result was that 111 million Americans caught it, and 1.29 million died. Plus, the unemployment rate went back up to 11%. No problem. President Joe Biden brought it back down. Letter: Trump could achieve his DOGE dreams by taxing the rich and taking less golf trips Trump wants to take us back to a time of fear and hatred But, the point of this column is to say that after one and a half months on the job, it is clear when America was Great 1877. That was the year the Republican Party convinced the Dixiecrats to pull the Union Army out of the South. That was the year that Jim Crow, Black Codes, KKK and "legal discrimination began in earnest. President Abraham Lincoln had moved America from the fear of slavery in 1863, but in 1877 the Republicans decided to bring back fear, hatred and slavery of the mind by working out a deal to win the presidency of the United States. A woman who identifies as MAGA Mary from Lake Worth Beach, joined fellow President Trump supporters in the parking lot of a shopping plaza on the south side of Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach, Fla., on February 28, 2025. The motorcade transported Trump to Mar-a-Lago after landing at Palm Beach International Airport aboard Air Force One. Something similar is happening today. Fear and hatred of others is enslaving America before our very eyes, and most Americans are blind and silent. 1877 was the end of Reconstruction. Today, 2025, may be called the Deconstruction of America and democracy. Our allies are looking at us with disbelief and disappointment as Trump and the GOP lead us down the rabbit hole. Trump thinks it's beautiful. America is again believing the lies of the Republican Party. And Trump and the GOP are very good at manipulating the American media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opinion: Trump goes against every principle my father taught me. Where are our values? Here we are again. But this time it is hurting all Americans, except very wealthy white men. Trumps administration is ruled by billionaires, and the MAGA folk who voted for him cannot see that they've been tricked. This isnt about Mexicans at the border; this is about controlling you, your livelihood and your hard earned money. Republicans need to get WOKE, so they can see the truth and start thinking on their own. The really tragic part is, there is no one to come and rescue Americans from America. It has to be internal. It has to be us. William "Bill" Nix William Bill Nix, aformer Vice President of Marketing and Government Affairs for the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, lives in Delray Beach. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Trump wants to take us backwards. We must save ourselves | Opinion OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Republican lawmakers called out Governor Stitt on Thursday after he called to get rid of the Department of Forestry, and an Oklahoma Fire Department is calling for his impeachment. We had more fires than we had employees, said one Republican lawmaker during a presser. Several of the representatives showed up to House Speaker Kyle Hilberts presser to condemn Stitts comments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what does that do from a fiscal management standpoint? In the long run, it means that we are less prepared for wildfires, said Speaker Hilbert. Oklahoma Forestry employees face uncertainty after Stitt calls for cutting department On Thursday, the Olive Fire Department posted a link to a Change.org petition that called for the impeachment of Governor Stitt. Unfortunately, the governor continues his rhetoric, and we can not stand by as he threatens the safety of the citizens and firefighters of this great state, so now comes the time for his removal, said the department on Facebook. News 4 asked if what the governor is saying aligns with President Trump and the efforts to cut for efficiency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is it conservative to reduce to not fill positions with the Forest Service? So you save money in the short run, but in the long run, you end up spending more money when youre talking about disaster and cleanup and restoration, answered Speaker Hilbert. Lawmakers on Thursday said that they had more fires than they did employees. They said that more money, if anything, is needed to help the fire crews around the state. For years, resources have been a challenge for volunteer fire departments. This year, the Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry is asking for 40% less money than it did the previous year. Senate Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton also offered similar words when it came to Gov. Stitts comments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It sounds like a really bad idea to me. I dont understand. I would like to have a conversation with the governor on that, said Paxton. It has been here for the last hundred years, and we should keep it. Even Democratic lawmakers sounded off Thursday, with Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt questioning why he called for the removal of the department. Ive talked to several local firefighters. Theyre all really worried about that, said Senator Kirt. News 4 reached out to Gov. Stitts office for a comment but did not hear back by Thursday evening. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. MACHESNEY PARK, Ill. (WTVO) Firefighters responded to a reported fire at the offices of two northern Illinois lawmakers on Friday. Four local fire departments were called to a fire on Hutchins Road, at a building that houses the office of Illinois State Rep. John Cabello (R-Machesney Park) and Rep. Joe Sosnowski (R-Rockford) just after 10 a.m. There were reports of a light haze within the building, which was evacuated, but officials said they did not find the source of a fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harlem-Roscoe Deputy Chief Jeff Grant said, Theyre going to be calling their electrical, HVAC contractors to do a little bit of further investigation if there was something that possibly could have caused that. But, there was nothing right now after further investigation, after we ventilated the building from any smoke, any carbon monoxide, things like that. Occupants were allowed to return to their offices once firefighters cleared the building. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A 29-year-old robotics researcher from Berlin who became the first German woman in space earlier this week returned to Earth on Friday. Rabea Rogge and her three fellow travellers splashed down off the coast of California in their Dragon capsule after four days in space. Live images broadcast by SpaceX showed the capsule unfurling its parachutes to slow its descent as it plunged toward the water. SpaceX, owned by tech billionaire Elon Musk, said this was the first time a manned Dragon capsule had landed in the sea off the US west coast. Such landings typically take place off the US east coast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At an altitude of 425 to 450 kilometres, the Fram2 mission examined celestial bodies and took the first X-ray images in space, SpaceX said. A total of 22 scientific experiments were to be conducted during the flight over Earth's polar regions, including an experiment on the growth of edible mushrooms in zero gravity. The mission launched onboard a SpaceX rocket on Monday. It was privately commissioned by billionaire Chun Wang, a Maltese citizen born in China, who is also part of the crew. He invited Rogge to join the flight after meeting her during training for an expedition in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our goal is not only to overcome boundaries but also to create new opportunities for space travel and science," Rogge told dpa before the mission. According to the German Aerospace Center, Rogge is the 13th German national to achieve space flight - but the first woman among them. Rogge participated in the Fram2 mission as a scientific specialist, and her tasks included coordinating the research. A 29-year-old researcher from Berlin who became the first German woman in space earlier this week is set to return to Earth on Friday. Rabea Rogge and three fellow travellers are scheduled to land off the coast of California in their Dragon capsule at around 9:19 am (1619), SpaceX said. The landing is due to be broadcast live. The Fram2 mission produced the first ever X-ray images of humans in space, according to SpaceX. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A total of 22 scientific studies were to be conducted during the flight over Earth's polar regions, including an experiment on the growth of edible mushrooms in zero gravity. The mission launched onboard a SpaceX rocket on Monday. It was privately commissioned by billionaire Chun Wang, a Maltese citizen born in China who is also part of the crew. He invited Rogge to join the flight after meeting her during training for an expedition in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard. "Our goal is not only to overcome boundaries but also to create new opportunities for space travel and science," Rogge told dpa before the mission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mission was criticized by a former head of the European Space Agency (ESA), Jan Worner. Space travel should not be misused for tourism purposes, as every rocket launch is a burden on the environment, he told German radio station rbb24. According to the German Aerospace Center, Rogge is the 13th German national to achieve space flight - but the first woman among them. Rogge is participating in the Fram2 mission as a scientific specialist. GREENVILLE (WSPA) Some disasters happen every day; it could be right next door to your home, and you might not even know it. Losing a job comes without flashing emergency lights or sirens, but they still need a response. The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce has a Rapid Response Team for such emergencies. If theyre not at their worst, theyre kind of down there, Shanelle Holmes, a Rapid Response Team Coordinator, said. We have to pick them back up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holmes is a coordinator for SCDEW Rapid Response in 14 South Carolina counties including the Upstate. The team responds when SC Works gets a WARN notice. Companies are required to inform the agency when they plan to layoff 50 or more employees. We have to tell them, starting over can be a good thing. Starting over in a new career and we can help you, she told 7NEWS. Were here to assist you. So, I think we give them hope. Holmes was part of the team that responded to the former Kohler plant in Spartanburg County. The company laid off workers several times before closing for good in early 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That was a big company, and people had been there 20 or 30 years. We did a job fair for them. We did resume workshops with them. The SCDEW Rapid Response Team also assists people, who lost their jobs, with interview skills. For some people, it may have been a long time since theyve had an interview. Just look directly in their eyes and shake their hands is one piece of advice from Holmes. She also advises to dress appropriately for an interview. If you want to be a construction worker. And they go to the interview in a full suit. Maybe wearing khakis and a nice shirt would be okay for a construction interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holmes knows handling a persons emotional needs is also important after they lose their job. We do have some people that say, Well, Im too old. Nobody wants to hire me. So, we try to tell them that your skills are valuable, Holmes said. Somebody thats 20 doesnt have the skill set of you being 55. We let them know that you have skills that are valuable and that companies are looking for. You can find out more about the SC Works Rapid Response Team by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. You are here: World Flash A direct air route linking northern Laos' Luang Prabang province and Kunming in southwest China has been launched to enhance connectivity and strengthen the relationship between the two countries. The launching ceremony, held at Luang Prabang International Airport on April 1, was attended by Deputy Governor of Luang Prabang province Bounleum Manivong and guests from both Laos and China, Lao national TV reported on Friday. This route aims to boost economic, trade, cultural, and tourism exchanges, offering Chinese tourists an opportunity to explore the town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its natural beauty and rich culture. The flights will operate three times a week, with a 1.5-hour journey connecting Luang Prabang and Kunming. The state of Texas is moving forward in its quest to help the Trump administration fulfill its desire to carry out the largest deportation in history. The Senate of the Republican-led state approved a bill this week that will require sheriffs in all counties with more than 100,000 residents to sign cooperation agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Senate Bill 8, introduced by Republican state Senators Joan Huffman and Charles Schwertner, passed 20-11 in the upper chamber but still needs to move on to the states lower chamber. If passed, the bill would also allow the State Attorney Generals Office to sue a sheriff if it believes the officer is not complying with the law. Collaboration with local and state authorities is essential for Trump to carry out his plans for mass expulsions, as federal law enforcement resources are limited and cannot manage detaining the 13 million undocumented immigrants the Republican wants to remove from the country. The Trump administration has urged states to enter into collaborative agreements with ICE under the 287g program, which allows local authorities to detain undocumented individuals who have been arrested for reasons unrelated to their immigration status, and transfer them to immigration agents. Until last year, two modalities were most commonly used. The Jail Enforcement Model (JEM) allows for interrogation of detainees to determine their immigration status. To do this, agents undergo a four-week training course. The Warrant Service Officer (WSO) model authorizes agents to carry out ICE orders, but does not allow them to conduct interrogations. In this case, the training only lasts eight hours. Since Trump returned to the White House, however, the previously unused task force model has been promoted, allowing local law enforcement to act as immigration agents during their routine activities. Under this model, for example, a traffic officer can arrest undocumented immigrants. ICE has signed 179 such agreements with local agencies in 23 states, some in Texas and the majority in Florida. Since Trump took office, the total partnerships between ICE and local and state law enforcement have doubled, and there are now 445 agreements in all forms. In addition to concerns about the appropriateness of tasking poorly trained personnel with immigration enforcement duties, agreements with ICE have encountered opposition in many counties due to the high cost of implementing them, which diverts resources from other areas. The Texas bill would create a $20 million fund to subsidize counties with fewer than one million residents, but would leave the rest without assistance, leading several Democratic senators to oppose it. Texas, which is governed by Greg Abbott, one of Trumps staunchest allies in his anti-immigration crusade, would thus become one of the states that cooperate the most with the federal government, like Florida. On February 13, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the most sweeping anti-immigration law in the country SB 4C which criminalizes those who enter the state without papers and has forced local law enforcement to cooperate with immigration authorities. Undocumented immigrants are detained in Bracketville, Texas, in March 2023. Jabin Botsford (Getty Images) Lawsuit against Florida The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed a lawsuit Wednesday challenging DeSantiss legislation. Floridas SB 4C is not only unconstitutional, but also cruel and dangerous, said Bacardi Jackson, executive director of the ACLU in Florida. This law strips power from the federal government and gives it to state officials with no immigration training or authority, threatening to separate families and detain people with every legal right to be here. Our communities deserve safety, dignity, and due process, not politically motivated attacks. The complaint details how SB 4C forces state law enforcement to make complex decisions regarding federal immigration, authorizes the detention of individuals who pose no threat, and criminalizes individuals to whom the federal government may later grant asylum, visas, or permanent status. Our plaintiffs include a mother applying for a visa as a victim of crime, a mother of four caring for a child with disabilities, and farmworkers who regularly travel between Florida and other states to harvest our food, said Amy Godshall, staff attorney with the Florida ACLU. This law not only violates the Constitution, but threatens the safety and well-being of those who have lived in our communities for decades. While Florida and Texas are tightening their immigration laws, Maryland is considering relaxing them. The Maryland House of Delegates is considering banning the states existing 287g agreements and replacing them with a different type of cooperation with ICE. The proposal would require local jail officials to inform immigration authorities only in cases where detainees are charged with serious crimes and are about to be released. Immigration agents would have 48 hours to take custody. Currently, seven Maryland counties have signed agreements with ICE. In three of them, local officials inform the immigration agency about their detainees, even before a trial. If the Senate does not move forward with the proposal, the cooperation would continue. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Photo of Jordan DeMay provided by John DeMay Five individuals charged for their part in a Nigerian sextortion scheme that targeted more than 100 victims, including a Michigan teen who killed himself as a result, pleaded guilty, the U.S. Attorneys Office of the Western District of Michigan announced Thursday. The individuals, who were charged with conspiring to launder money extorted from boys and young men using sexually sensitive images by Nigerian criminals, were all Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the sextortionists coerced the victims into sending the images, they would extort them for money that was sent to the five U.S.-based money launderers through online payment systems, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office of the Western District of Michigan. The five launderers would take their cut, 20%, and send the rest to a Nigerian individual they referred to as The Plug, who took a cut and sent the rest to the extortionists themselves. But when the extortionists couldnt get victims to send money, they would demand other things. This was the case for 17-year-old Marquette Senior High School student Jordan DeMay. In 2022, in a matter of six hours, the Nigerian extortionists managed to extort sexual images from the teen and convince him to kill himself if he didnt comply with their demands. He was tragically tortured, DeMays father John DeMay said during a news conference to bring awareness to the issue of sextortion in 2024. He was convinced and groomed into sending an explicit picture of himself, which he did and when that happened, the extortion started. It was vicious, it was consistent, it was methodical and it was purposeful. The launderers who pleaded include: Dinsimore Guyton Robinson, 29, of Huntsville, Alabama Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kendall Ormond London, 32, of Lithonia, Georgia Brian Keith Coldmon, Jr., 30, of Peachtree Corners, Georgia Jarell Daivon Williams, 31, of McDonough, Georgia Johnathan Demetrius Green, 32, of Stone Mountain, Georgia The conspiracy offense carries a 20-year maximum prison sentence. In recent months, Andrew Birge, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, has brought attention to the problem of sextortion in the modern age, noting that it too often can result in tragedy, like in Jordan DeMays case. And in reflecting on the launderers role in this sextortion scheme, Birge said in a news release that these individuals helped and profited from this awful, heartbreaking scheme and so they now will face the consequences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation have been calling attention to the emerging threat of sexual violence online being perpetrated by utilizing sexually sensitive images to extort victims, also known as sextortion. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Five nurses working on the same floor of a maternity unit at a Massachusetts hospital have all developed brain tumors. Mass General Brighams Newton-Wellesley Hospital, in Newton, said five of its staff members on the fifth-floor unit were discovered to have benign tumors, according to NBC 10 Boston. Additionally, six other staff members were found to have other health concerns. Hospital officials have interviewed 11 others since April 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "After we became aware of reported brain tumors in individuals who currently or previously had worked in the same area of the hospital, we conducted an extensive investigation in collaboration with the Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Newton-Wellesley Safety Officer, radiation and pharmaceutical safety offices, and external environmental consultants," the hospital said in a statement. "Every staff member who came forward was given the opportunity to be interviewed by the Occupational Health and Safety team to evaluate each diagnosis in the context of their individual medical history and risk factors. To evaluate for any possible environmental exposures in that area of the hospital, comprehensive environmental assessments following CDC guidelines began in December. The investigation found no environmental risks which could be linked to the development of a brain tumor." The Massachusetts Nurses Association told the outlet that the hospitals environmental testing was not comprehensive. A union representative said it had received more than 300 responses from people at Newton-Wellesley and is working to obtain medical records and provide a direct follow-up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The union told NBC 10 that the hospital cannot make the issue go away by attempting to provide a pre-determined conclusion. Its its own statement, the hospital announced that its top priority is the well-being of its staff and patients. Officials will be holding another town hall within the next week. Parts of the San Fernando are already being rattled by thunder and hit with rain and hail as a storm system moving over the mountains spills into the valley, the National Weather Service reported. With a flash flood warning issued for Los Angeles County until 6 p.m., forecasters said the primary hazards will be potential hail, lightning and heavy downpours in some areas. There is a small chance for rainfall rates to exceed [half an inch per hour] with stronger shower/storms, NWS added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents in Granada Hills saw heavy rain at around 3:30 p.m. Thursday, as well as thunder and lightning. Weather officials said residents would likely be impacted by the passing storm system between 12 p.m. through 9 p.m. where there is a potential for a wet afternoon commute, though a low risk of minor flooding and debris flows in some areas. Coastal areas in L.A. County are expected to remain dry Thursday, with the valley regions seeing the same dry weather Friday, along with a warming trend through late next week. Well above normal temperatures are very likely next Tuesday and Wednesday with highs in the 90s expected across the valleys, NWS said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Cass County and the city of Logansport suffered minor damage from strong winds and thunderstorms Wednesday night, but the threat of flooding will remain through the weekend. The National Weather Service in Northern Indiana has issued a flood warning for Eel River at North Manchester, affecting Wabash, Kosciusko, Whitley, Cass and Miami counties. Recent heavy rainfall has caused a rapid rise in river levels in North Manchester. The river rose above flood stage early Thursday morning to 12.5 feet in the evening. It is predicted to then fall early Saturday morning, before rising to 12.8 feet early Sunday afternoon. It will then fall below flood stage early Monday afternoon. Flood stage is 11 feet, according to the NWS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cass County was under a tornado watch briefly Wednesday night, although none were spotted. High winds did cause a generator at 18th Street to malfunction, causing more than 800 homes and businesses on the south side of the city to lose power at about 9:40 p.m. Logansport Utilities said it was restored by 11:20 p.m. More than 200 tornado warnings were issued across eight states Wednesday night. A tornado was confirmed in Hendricks County by the NWS, although it could take several days to confirm others. Rain showers are expected through Monday in Cass County. On Friday, showers are likely to begin after 2 p.m. with possibly a thunderstorm at night. The rain will continue into Saturday, with more possible thunderstorms in the evening. The rain will taper off on Sunday morning, although its expected to return Monday morning. According to the NWS, Cass County could receive more than three inches of rain through the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Midwest recovers Tornadoes and violent winds flattened homes and ripped apart buildings from Oklahoma to Indiana in the first round of storms that are expected to bring record-setting rains and life-threatening flash floods across the nations midsection in the coming days. At least six people were killed in western Tennessee, Missouri and Indiana in the first wave on Wednesday and early Thursday that spun off powerful tornadoes one launching debris nearly 5 miles (8 kilometers) above the ground in Arkansas. Homes along the highway that crosses through Lake City, Arkansas, had completely collapsed, their brick walls crushed and roofs gone. Three cars were tossed into trees. Workers were using bulldozers to clear debris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont really know how to explain it, said Cody Ferguson, who hid in a storm shelter with neighbors while the twister roared above them. Just real loud rumbling, a lot of bangs, debris. The home he had built from the ground up was destroyed, and he said a neighbor from across the street was seriously injured. Among the deaths, at least four people were killed in western Tennessee, including a man and his teenage daughter whose home was destroyed, and an Indiana man who died after his pickup truck struck downed powerlines. More than 90 million people were at risk of severe weather across an area stretching from Texas to Minnesota and Maine, according to the Oklahoma-based Storm Prediction Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Potentially deadly flash flooding was forecast through Saturday for the South and Midwest as severe thunderstorms blowing eastward become supercharged. The potent storm system will bring significant, life-threatening flash flooding each day, the National Weather Service said. Warehouse collapse in Indiana Emergency crews worked for several hours to free a warehouse worker trapped after a roof and a wall collapsed near Indianapolis. The woman was conscious and talking during the rescue on Wednesday. It was just heavy debris that had fallen on top of her, Brownsburg Fire Department spokesperson Kamrick Holding told WTHR-TV. She happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wind gusts blew over semitrucks, downed power lines and caused power outages that disrupted classes in at least 10 school districts in Indiana. More than half a million customers in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Arkansas, Tennessee, West Virginia, Mississippi, Missouri and Texas were without power early Thursday following the peak of the storms, according to PowerOutage.us. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Its officially spring break across West Michigan, and those traveling south will want to keep an eye on the weather as severe weather concerns continue to grow. FLOOD ALERTS Major flooding is expected across portions of the Midwest and southern United States as rain continues to stall. Flash flood warnings cover portions of Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio and Arkansas as an additional 5 to 8 inches of rain is expected through Saturday. Sundays tornadoes most in Michigan on one day since 2001 Keep in mind, parts of this area have already seen 1 to 4 inches of rain over the past several days. Driving through this area for spring break travel will be dangerous, especially off the highways and near rivers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While West Michigan will get clipped by this system, rain totals will be minimal, around a quarter inch at most. Still, the Grand River at Comstock Park is expected to reach minor flood stage this weekend. SEVERE WEATHER OUTLOOK The widespread rain comes with a chance for strong to severe thunderstorms as well. The Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of Arkansas in a level 4 moderate risk for Friday. Tornadoes, damaging wind and hail are all quite likely to develop Friday afternoon and evening. Marandas 2025 Spring Break Guide Strong to severe storms are expected to continue rolling across the country Saturday and Sunday as the severe threat moves east. The greatest threat for tornadoes develops in Louisiana Saturday afternoon. TEMPERATURE OUTLOOK Behind the stalled out front, cooler air will begin to slide into the central region of the country Sunday. Highs are expected to be a bit below average. That all changes by the end of the week, though. Warmer air takes over for the western half of the United States, while cooler air moves into the gulf region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download the free Storm Team 8 weather app If you are staying local in Michigan, cooler air will be sticking around with highs in the 40s and 50s. Luckily, a much drier and quieter pattern will take over for most of the country next week. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. A Florida angler has documented an extremely tense confrontation in which a famous charter caption boarded his boat and appeared to threaten him during a profanity-laced tirade. The argument, involving Capt. Brock Horner, 40, and Gage Towles, 22, began April 1, when Horner approached Towles while searching for the boater who cussed at him before dawn after a possible near collision beneath the Barron Collier Bridge. Towles is heard telling Horner, owner of Tarpon Coast Fishing Charters, that he was not that boater. Towles also shouts to Horner that Horner had been in the wrong by speeding beneath the bridge, knowing that people fish there. (Click here to view the footage.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That started an escalation that lasts throughout the video. Horner, moments before boarding Towles' boat, screams at him: Im the best charter captain that you will ever meet in your [#@$%#] life. The footage ends with Horner boarding Towles boat and taking control of the throttle while a fearful Towles apologizes repeatedly. (The passengers on Horners boat appeared not to take sides.) The Daytona Beach News-Journal reported that Horner has deleted his business website and social-media accounts. The Punta Gorda Police Department is investigating the incident. This article originally appeared on For The Win: Confrontation between charter captain and angler under investigation PUNTA GORDA, Fla. (WFLA) A viral video showing a fight between two Florida boaters has sparked both a police investigation and strong reactions from people online. The Punta Gorda Police Department said Thursday a police report had been filed, and officers were investigating the incident, which happened under the Barron Collier Bridge on April 1. Who is Brock Horner? Angry Florida charter captain confronts boater in viral video Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event has garnered significant attention on social media, and we are receiving numerous calls to dispatch requesting that the department take action, the police department wrote in a Facebook post. As of Thursday afternoon, the video had been shared by over 25,000 people on Facebook and garnered over 76,000 reactions and comments. The video, which contains explicit language, was also shared to YouTube, where over 37,000 people had watched. The number of views on YouTube had quadrupled by the end of the night, and over 11 million people had seen the Facebook post. The video appears to show a little over four minutes of the two boaters argument. Mid-video, a man who identified himself as a charter captain could be seen climbing aboard the other boaters vessel, who then began shouting, Please, bro, Im a kid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said that the incident was between two adults. Officers have not released any further details regarding the incident or their investigation. North Port firefighter was with charter captain caught on camera berating boater, chief says The Punta Gorda Police Department is asking that people do not call to report the situation as they are already aware and calls to dispatch could slow down response to emergency situations. Officials said the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and U.S. Coast Guard are also investigating. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. 20-year old Carlie (she did not give her last name) at the Capitol in Tallahassee on April 1, 2025. (Photo by Mitch Perry/Florida Phoenix) In a sweeping immigration bill designed to help President Donald Trump enact his mass deportations of unauthorized immigrants, the Florida Legislature earlier this year repealed a 2014 law allowing individuals brought to the U.S. as children without documentation, known as Dreamers, to pay in-state tuition rates at Florida colleges and universities. That abrupt change will affect approximately 6,500 undergraduates, according to the Florida Policy Institute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the measure went before the Florida Senate in February, South Florida Democrat Jason Pizzo offered an amendment to grandfather in any dreamer enrolled in a state college or university so they could continue pay that in-state tuition for an additional four years. It didnt pass. Advocates arent giving up, though. This week, the group TheDream.US trekked to the Capitol to resume the fight. Specifically, they hope to revive the idea of allowing students now enrolled to continue paying in-state rates until they graduate. Right now, theyre working on the budget, and we know that the budget needs to pass, right? said TheDream.US president and CEO Gaby Pacheco. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And so it could be a potential vehicle for us to get a grandfathered-in clause. The hope is that the House as theyre working through this perhaps put in an amendment. Were not legislators, so we dont necessarily know the ins and outs. Were just hoping that they know that this is important for the state of Florida, for their constituents, for these students and our college systems. Pacheco made regular visits to the Capitol in 2023 to defend against the threatened cutoff of in-state tuition for dreamers. Gov. Ron DeSantis announced before that legislative session a slate of proposals cracking down on illegal immigration. Yet, somehow, the law survived that year. It wasnt the first time that some Republicans in the Legislature had attempted to repeal the measure. But after last years election, in which illegal immigration was a central issue, DeSantis made it clear to state lawmakers at the beginning of this year that he wanted the law struck down. Everything that Ive fought for Among those joining Pacheco in the Capitol this week was a 20-year-old student from the University of Central Florida who wanted to be identified only by her first name of Carlie, out of fear she could be targeted because of her immigration status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes a junior majoring in advertising and public relations who has accumulated 80 credits toward her degree and says that will be up to 100 by the end of the spring semester not enough yet to graduate. But as of July 1, when the law takes effect, shell be forced to pay full tuition. That means I can no longer afford my public education and will have to give up everything that Ive fought for, she said. In addition to her studies, Carlie works between 20 and 36 hours a week at Publix and spends her free time volunteering to help students prepare college scholarship applications. Her tuition is roughly $2,800 a semester, covered through a scholarship from TheDream.US. It will more than double after the law takes effect an amount she says she cant bear. Carlie, 20, migrated to the United States from Haiti almost seven years ago. Her parents arent supporting her, she said, as she was forced to leave home at 16. Her rough upbringing compelled her to try to make a better life for herself but, without the benefit of in-state tuition, its impossible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She spent part of Tuesday meeting with lawmakers to explain her plight, although she knows its an uphill battle. Its hard to get people to change their mind, so all were asking for are the current students to be grandfathered in and protected for now, she said. Because most of us only have a few more credits to go, and its so unfair that we had to fight so hard to get here and just knowing that all of a sudden it meant nothing? Thats hard. Carlies ambition is to start her own business helping other students from low-income families get educations like shes been able to achieve for now, anyway. I want to be a role model to show them that I come from an undeveloped country, that I didnt have the same opportunities as everybody else, and I made it, so its possible. The U.S. is a country of opportunists, but now Im wondering if thats even true anymore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pacheco acknowledges her group has limited leverage with the Legislature, but believes its worth the effort. At the end of the day, were practically begging, she said. Were saying, Please do not do this to these students. Please do not do this to 6,000 young people who have worked so hard to get so far, and that are so close to be able to get those college degrees.' SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) A Florida father was arrested Thursday after deputies said he enlisted a man to kill a woman while she was sleeping with their three kids. The Orange County Sheriffs Office said 30-year-old Porshe Streeter was shot 10 times while she slept at an apartment on Woodhill Park Drive in 2024. Deputies said Streeter and Saun Landis Rainge Jr., 32, had known each other since high school and had three children together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their relationship was described as toxic with reports of domestic abuse and infidelity, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by NBC affiliate WESH. Auburndale police: Woman lied to protect daughter accused of striking 6-year-old in hit-and-run The sheriffs office said Streeter lived at the apartment with the three kids, and Rainge would occasionally sleep over. On Jan. 13, 2024, Rainge told 911 operators that he came to the apartment to check on his family when a person walked in and shot him and his lady, the affidavit said. None of the children were physically harmed. Rainge was found sitting on the floor with a gunshot wound to his arm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Orange County deputies said a door to the master bedroom was damaged and appeared to have been kicked in. Streeter was found unresponsive on the floor of the master bedroom. Rainge claimed that an intruder shot Streeter. After an extensive investigation, the Orange County Sheriffs Office said Rainge committed premeditated murder and killed Streeter while she was in bed with their kids. A second suspect, who was seen on camera with Rainge, was also arrested. Benjamin Garmon Jr. is accused of conspiring to murder Streeter and carried out the murder while making it appear as a home invasion. Detectives said they believe Rainge had Garmon shoot him to make the home invasion look real. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators said they believe Rainge wanted Streeter dead because she wouldnt give him custody of the kids and was hiding money from him. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In front of the cameras in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump said it himself. My administration is launching the CBP Home app to give people in our country illegally an easy way to leave now and self-deport voluntarily. If they do, they could potentially have the opportunity to return legally at some point in the future. If they do not avail themselves of this opportunity, then they will be found, they will be deported and they will never be admitted again to the United States ever, ever again, youre never coming in, he announced in a video posted on the White House YouTube channel a little over two weeks ago. Anyone listening to these words would assume that using the app which was converted from Bidens CBP One, which served to expedite asylum requests, to one that allowed users to provide their personal information to immigration authorities and voluntarily leave the country will bring legal or immigration benefits. After almost a month in operation, the supposed benefits that have been used to promote the apps use look increasingly deceptive. While the Trump administration boasts of record numbers of self-deportations, without providing verifiable official figures, migrants and immigration lawyers warn that using CBP Home to voluntarily self-deport is not different from a regular legal expulsion. The difference is that there is no hearing before a judge and, therefore, no signed voluntary departure order. But re-entry restrictions apply equally: if the person has been in the United States illegally for less than 180 days, they are barred for three years; if they have been in the country without papers for more than a year, the ban is 10 years. Furthermore, even after waiting for these periods to expire, the chances of being granted a visa, whether tourist or work, with a deportation record, even if voluntary, are extremely low. Initially, it sounded to immigrants like they were being told: We know youve been here illegally, but if you leave using this app, then maybe youll be able to come back eventually and live the American dream. If you dont use it, youll never be able to come back. But the CBP Home app doesnt help you with that. So its like a trap, says immigration attorney Jonathan Shaw, who has worked on these issues in Utah for 15 years, although he has clients in every state in the country. In fact, for those familiar with the intricacies of the immigration system like Shaw, the CBP Home app is a mystery because it offers nothing new. In a voluntary departure process, you ask an immigration judge to issue you a voluntary departure order instead of a deportation order. Youll still have the three- or 10-year restriction, but you wont have a deportation order on your record. So thats a bit of a benefit in that case. Also, with the app, the person who registers provides their information and basically promises the government theyre going to leave. But if they end up staying, then they could use that against them, Shaw explains. Others are even more pessimistic about the supposed benefits for undocumented immigrants who self-deport using CBP Home, although they dont believe the authorities have lied, but rather intentionally misled them. Like attorney Wilfredo Allen, who has been practicing in Miami for 40 years, half of that time exclusively in the immigration field. Its true and its a lie. Its true because, after serving the time bar, you can return to your country and apply for a visa. But what visa are they going to give you? A tourist visa after a deportation or a history of irregular stay? The probability is zero. A work visa? You have to prove that theres no one else who can do that job, but youre automatically at the bottom of the list, Allen explains. Theyre not really giving you any concrete options, he continues, before presenting a hypothetical situation. Lets say youre a fieldworker and you leave. If they told you that if you legally apply for a temporary work visa, youd be put first in line, that would be a real benefit. That would be fantastic, but theyre not doing that. The only relatively feasible way to return to the United States after deportation, even if its self-deportation, is to receive a government pardon. Lawyers explain that a family member usually a spouse, parent, or child of the deported person who resides in the country can request that the deportee be pardoned and allowed to return, justifying that the person is physically dependent on the person who has been removed from the country. However, they add, the likelihood of a pardon being accepted is very low, and probably even lower now. The Trump administration began its crusade against undocumented immigrants from day one, and one of the first things it did was disable the old CBP One app, leaving thousands of people without an asylum appointment and in limbo. As the first weeks have given way to the first months of Trumps second presidency, the emphasis on the idea of self-deportation has increased in parallel with growing evidence that carrying out the largest deportation in history is an extremely difficult task. As evidence, while crossings of the southern border by new undocumented migrants have almost completely stopped, deportations are at a rate very similar to, or slightly lower than, during Joe Bidens term. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Florida leads the nation in the number of immigrants with Temporary Protected Status, or TPS. Soon after taking office, the Trump administration moved to scale back protections for the largest groups of these immigrants those from Haiti and Venezuela. TPS applies to immigrants from designated countries that the Department of Homeland Security considers dangerous due to armed conflicts, environmental disasters, epidemics or other conditions. There are currently 17 countries on the list. The most recent country added was Lebanon on Oct. 16, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a federal report published in December 2024, nearly a third of the roughly 1.1 million TPS recipients live in Florida. Of those, 59% are Venezuelan and 35% are Haitian, with the other 6% coming from other TPS nations. Im a professor of investigative journalism at Florida International University in Miami. For the past 24 years, Ive worked with students to report how various waves of immigrants have integrated into Florida, and also on the impact of historical immigration crackdowns on the states workforce. Because so many TPS recipients live here, ending TPS may affect Florida more than any other state but it is still hard to say if and when that will happen. Uncertain TPS expiration dates Temporary Protected Status allows beneficiaries to stay and work in the U.S. for a designated period, typically ranging from six to 18 months. This time period can be extended if conditions in the affected country remain unstable. It does not provide a permanent legal pathway to stay in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Joe Bidens administration created two TPS designations for Venezuelans one in 2021 and a second in 2023. In early February 2025, Trumps Homeland Security director, Kristi Noem, rolled back extensions of TPS for Venezuelans that the outgoing Biden administration had issued on Jan. 17, 2025. Then, two days later, she issued a termination notice that canceled TPS for 2023 Venezuelan recipients altogether. Noems orders meant that almost 250,000 Venezuelans covered by the 2023 designation were expected to lose their residence and work permits on April 7, 2025. Another 256,000 Venezuelans who requested their TPS under the earlier designation were expected to lose their protections on Sept. 10, 2025. But Venezuelans got some breathing room on March 31, when U.S. District Judge Edward Chen blocked the change in their immigration status, writing that Noems decision smacks of racism. As a result, they will keep their TPS protections while the case moves through the courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Noem has said that having Venezuelans in the country is contrary to the national interest and accused them without proof of gang affiliations. The judges ruling doesnt affect the more than 520,000 Haitian immigrants nationwide expected to lose their TPS protection on Aug. 3, 2025. The expiration of TPS potentially affects 341,000 immigrants in Florida. But it doesnt mean all of these people will leave the country. TPS rules allow immigrants to apply for a change of immigration status, and some will apply for asylum or student visas. Others will go underground. Local economic effects These policies wont just affect Venezuelan and Haitian TPS holders personally. It will likely cause some big waves in the Florida economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The non-profit American Immigration Council, an immigrant advocacy group, estimates that 95% of TPS holders in Florida age 16 and older are currently employed. They paid approximately US$485.9 million in local and Florida state taxes, according to the same report. Although the public often associates immigrants with work in the construction, agricultural and meatpacking industries, most are employed in education and health care. Fewer home health aides Immigrants account for 64% of all home health aides in Florida, according to the American Immigration Council. Nationwide, 1 in 4 direct care workers are immigrants, according to a policy brief from PHI, an advocacy group for elder care and disability service workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not all of these workers are TPS holders, but an estimated 7% of foreign-born caregivers are from Haiti. Additionally, the research from PHI suggests that the actual percentage of home health aides who are immigrants is likely higher, as many immigrant workers in this sector operate in the gray market. These workers receive direct payment from the people they work for, which makes their employment hard to track. PHI projects that the long-term care sector in the U.S. will need to fill 9.3 million new direct care job openings by 2031 due to the countrys aging population. School staff a concern The public school system is another area where the sudden loss of TPS recipients will likely be deeply felt. Miami-Dade County Public Schools, the third-largest school district in the country, is experiencing an ongoing shortage of teachers and staff. The district had nearly 700 education and support positions unfilled in August 2024, according to a district-by-district count done by the Florida Education Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is not only teachers, an administrator told me in March 2025, explaining that the vacancies are also among registrars, custodians, paraprofessionals and other roles. These high stakes education jobs, as he described them to me, are difficult for Miami-Dade County schools to fill. The Miami-Dade school district doesnt report on the nationality of its employees or their immigration status. But unfilled positions in the school district dropped after an influx of Venezuelans and Haitians in 2019, the administrator told me. Losing these workers would likely mean South Floridas persistent education and home health care labor shortages would worsen making it increasingly difficult for families with school-age children, the elderly and individuals with special needs to access affordable essential services. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Mercedes Vigon, Florida International University Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Mercedes Vigon does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. A new tax package is moving through Floridas legislature, and it could mean major changes to how you save this year. The House just passed a $5.4 billion plan that would cut the state sales tax from 6% to 5.25%. However, unlike recent years, the package doesnt include any sales tax holidays. Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Wyman Duggan, said the cut could make a bigger impact for more people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are clearly setting a course and a vision that is going to provide immediate, meaningful relief to every single Floridian that makes a purchase, Duggan said. Meanwhile, Gov. Ron DeSantis is still focused on cutting property taxes. The House and Senate will hash out the final budget over the next month. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. TAMPA, Fla., (WFLA) State lawmakers are working to ease the anxiety of taking a test to help students earn their high school diploma. This includes math and English exams. Supporters of this bill said it aims to help students with testing anxiety by eliminating the need to pass certain tests to graduate. The proposed changes are part of a larger education reform bill that some lawmakers believe will better set students up for success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its focusing on the total child, not just the child thats going to be able to take a test, said State Sen. Corey Simon. The bill would end the requirement for high schoolers to pass final assessments for Algebra 1 and English in order to earn their diplomas. Right now, those standardized tests account for 30% of a students final grade. We all learn differently, but we take a test that doesnt focus on all of our strengths. So, its important for us to continue to do this work, making sure that our kids leave our schools and theyre not defeated, theyre encouraged, Simon said. The bill would also allow third graders to continue to fourth grade if they fail their final reading assessment by instead having them pass two progress checks a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Florida Senate education committee approved the bill, though some still have questions about how the changes would impact students after they graduate. How to make sure were still going to be graduating students that meet basic proficiency guidelines and can be, will be, productive members of our society? asked State Sen. Lori Berman. Simon said students are being tested three times a year from the first time they step foot in a classroom. He said he wants to see them evaluated on their overall performance, not just how well they can score on a test. Some of our kids struggle with our tests, but the track record for that student over 8, 9 years, we should be able to determine if a kid is on grade level and is mastering the material and just had a bad day, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If this bill is passed and signed into law, it will take effect in July 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A Eugene man was arrested Wednesday after a stabbing at Skinner Butte, authorities said. According to Eugene police, officers rushed to Skinner Butte at 7:43 p.m. after stabbing reports, and they found a 34-year-old Florida man with injuries. Witnesses were at the scene helping the man when police arrived, and eventually, the victim was taken to a local hospital. Fight at carnival outside Vancouver Plaza escalates into shooting Thursday night Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said the victim was visiting from out of state when he saw the suspect in a van talking about violence. The victim said he told the suspect to stop talking like that, which is when the suspect got out of his van and stabbed him. The suspect, later identified as Deryk Mitchell Johnson, 30, was taken into custody after his van was spotted at 1910 West 6th Avenue. Before being transported to the county jail, authorities said that Johnson slammed his head against a wall at the Eugene Police headquarters, leaving a hole. Oregon is doling out $11M in unclaimed funds. Heres how to find out if youre owed money Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson is facing numerous charges, including first-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon and second-degree criminal mischief. He is also facing another second-degree criminal mischief charge for slamming his head into the wall, authorities said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. A proposal to ban Florida students from using cell phones during the school day is headed to the full House. The proposal would require school districts to designate areas where students may use devices. It expands on a law passed two years ago that bars students from using phones during instructional time. Channel 9 will continue to monitor the proposal and provide updates on Eyewitness News. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. April 4 (UPI) -- A Florida-based boutique stationery company that sources products from China has sued the Trump administration, challenging the legality of tariffs he imposed on the Asian nation. The lawsuit, filed Thursday by the conservative New Civil Liberties Alliance on behalf of Simplified, argues President Donald Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs on China is unconstitutional and should be rescinded. "By invoking emergency power to impose an across-the-board tariff on imports from China that the statute does not authorize, President Trump has misused that power, usurped Congress' right to control tariffs and upset the Constitution's separation of powers," Andrew Morris, senior litigation counsel with the NCLA, said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump imposed a 10% tariff on imports from China on Feb. 1, which he doubled to 20% on March 3. The president invoked the IEEPA to do so, declaring a national emergency over drugs -- in particular fentanyl -- originating in China and being smuggled into the United States, contributing to the opioid crisis. According to the Congressional Research Service, the IEEPA grants the president sweeping authority to regulate economic transactions after declaring a national emergency. In the lawsuit filed Thursday, the NCLA argues that the IEEPA permits the president to impose sanctions as a rapid response to an international emergency but not to impose taxes in the form of tariffs on the American people -- a power reserved for Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "President Trump is attempting to bypass these constraints by invoking the IEEPA," the lawsuit states. "But in the IEEPA's almost 50-year history, no previous president has used it to impose tariffs. Which is not surprising, since the statute does not even mention tariffs, nor does it say anything else suggesting it authorizes president to tax American citizens." It said its client, Simplified, has incurred economic and competitive harm from the illegal tariffs, which have forced it to pay significantly more for its wares. "Under the current plans, the new tariffs will impose hundreds of thousands of dollars in costs on Simplified," the lawsuit states. "If it moves its manufacturing operations away from China, this would impose further costs. Either course would require Simplified to raise its prices to its customers and either reduce its already small staff or not hire more staff. Any raised prices for Simplified's products will likely reduce demand for those products." The IEEPA permits the president to implement asset freezes, trade embargoes and other similar economic sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NCLA accused Trump of using the IEEPA as a "blank check" to write domestic economic policy, and is asking the court for injunctive relief enjoining the United States from implementing and enforcing the tariffs against China. "No president ever thought the IEEPA allowed him to set tariffs. Reading this law broadly enough to uphold the China tariff would transfer core legislative power,"